Pokémon: Farm Story

Pidgeotto, the earliest of the regional birds, has a final evolution in Pidgeot with decent base stats and impressive speed.

Although its overall strength is just "passable," the nostalgic attachment and its Mega Evolution potential, coupled with its ability to serve as a flying mount, have made it a frequent feature in various fan works.

When Mega Evolved, Pidgeot's base stat total reaches 579. To put that in perspective: pseudo-legendaries like Dragonite have a base stat total of 600. Mega Pidgeot also boasts a Speed stat of 121, outpacing most Pokémon.

Of course, base stats are theoretical. After all, Dragonite, revered for its "extreme speed," has a Speed stat of only 80—and yet, it's said to circle the globe in 16 hours!

Returning to the main point, when Natsume first caught sight of the golden, gleaming Pidgeotto, his brain froze for a moment.

To be honest, his impression of shiny Pokémon usually involved a greenish hue—like shiny Machamp, for instance. But then he remembered: the games are one thing, reality another.

In reality, shiny Pokémon often symbolize strength. The reason is simple: due to their distinct coloring, shiny Pokémon are often ostracized by their groups, forcing them to survive independently in the wild. This experience cultivates strong willpower and combat abilities.

In many cases, strong willpower can compensate for natural talent. To some trainers, a determined Pokémon is far more valuable than one that simply boasts good stats. Of course, there are exceptions.

Shiny Pokémon also tend to have unique traits. For example, the shiny Furret at Natsume's farm is much faster than regular Furret—and cuter (crossed out).

Because of their rarity, shiny Pokémon are highly sought after by trainers. Even if they're not particularly strong, their uniqueness is enough to win over most trainers.

While Natsume sized up the Pidgeotto, the Pidgeotto was also assessing Natsume.

A plain-looking human. No brightly colored hair, no peculiar eyes. He didn't smirk crookedly, nor did he have an unusually large head. Just an ordinary person, albeit slightly handsome.

Still, the Pidgeotto was wary.

This human... feels familiar.

It's well-known that certain Pokémon species harbor mutual animosities—for example, Zangoose and Seviper, or Pidgeot and Fearow.

A few days ago, this shiny Pidgeotto heard from other Pokémon that a Fearow had been utterly defeated by a human. Delighted by Fearow's misfortune, Pidgeotto had rushed over to mock it.

Even though it couldn't necessarily beat that Fearow itself—and would probably lose to the same human—it didn't stop Pidgeotto from taunting Fearow.

Of course, that escapade ended with a horde of Fearow chasing it down, but it was worth it.

But now?

Karma?

The shiny Pidgeotto glanced back at its clueless flock, then at the blue Corvisquire and shiny Furret beside Natsume.

It had a sinking feeling.

"Hello, Pidgeotto," Natsume greeted, walking closer. "I'm Natsume, the owner of this farm."

The shiny Pidgeotto instinctively saluted in the French style.

"Pidgeot!"

Hello!

Natsume blinked, surprised by the sudden formality.

This Pidgeotto didn't seem very bright. Or rather, its brain might not be entirely functional.

Could this be the "shiny" part of this Pidgeotto? Its brain?

Suppressing his inner doubts, Natsume continued, "You must be the leader of your group, right?"

"Pidgeot."

Receiving confirmation, Natsume added, "Our farm welcomes Pokémon to join, but there are rules you need to follow."

The rules of the farm hadn't changed much since Natsume took over. Besides minor adjustments, one new rule stood out:

"No placing your rear end on Natsume's face in the middle of the night."

Don't ask why this rule exists. Every peculiar rule has a peculiar story behind it.

Perched on a branch, the shiny Pidgeotto mulled over its options.

Joining seemed like a good idea—this place was great, and the conditions offered were appealing.

But joining outright felt undignified. Maybe... a fight first?

Pidgeotto's gaze slowly shifted back to Natsume.

The human was out of the question.

Next, its eyes landed on the blue Corvisquire. Something about that bird was irritating.

Then, the pink-and-white Furret.

Clicking its tongue, Pidgeotto couldn't shake the feeling that none of these Pokémon were pushovers.

If it fought and lost, it would lose face entirely.

If it joined without a fight, it would still lose face.

"What's your decision?" Natsume asked.

"Pidgeot!"

I'll join!

After weighing the pros and cons, the shiny Pidgeotto decisively agreed.

"Welcome aboard, Pidgeotto!" Natsume smiled.

"Pidgeot!"

Looking forward to working with you, Boss Natsume!

Yes, this Pidgeotto seemed very aware of its place. Or perhaps it was simply well-aware of Natsume's strength.

Over time, Natsume had gained some notoriety among the local wild Pokémon, known for his ability to single-handedly subdue them.

This led to a personal realization: if something can be solved with his own hands, why trouble the Pokémon on the farm?

Besides, there was a certain thrill to taking down Pokémon with a single punch.

What is a true Hisui superhuman? (leans back smugly)

"For now, you and your flock can stay here," Natsume said. "Help keep an eye on the orchard, and let me know if any outsiders show up. I'll bring pokéblocks over regularly."

After explaining the rules and handing over some energy cubes, Natsume ignored the Pidgeotto's stunned reaction ("What kind of garbage have I been eating before this?") and headed toward the warehouse at the farm's edge with Corvisquire and Furret.

"I need to consider getting a mount Pokémon," Natsume mused as he walked. With some money saved up, it might be time to invest in some functional Pokémon.

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