Sometimes when the world can seem bleak and uncaring it can be hard to see the good in people, especially when so many terrible things happen.
When I find myself despairing at humanity, I try to thing about the things that link us all as humans. We are a species of infinite potential, we have the ability to create indescribable beauty or inflict immeasurable harm.
I believe one of the most beautiful traits that links as a people is our ability and inclination to form bonds. Not just with each other, but with other species, inanimate objects, even fictional figures. It’s the reason we wind up having beloved cuddly toys, it’s the reason we managed to get the Opportunity rover to sing happy birthday to itself on Mars.
And it’s the reason why I now have an emotional attachment and protective instinct over Team BIDOOF.
There’s been significant progress since my last post, or at least it feels that way. All of team BIDOOF have now evolved into Bibarels. In terms of levels the team has hit the following:
- B – Lv. 33
- I – Lv. 32
- D – Lv. 31
- O – Lv. 31
- O – Lv. 31
- F – Lv. 30
The team has beaten Gym Leaders Roark and Gardenia, we’ve gained access to the underground (which has massively helped with the level grinding), we’ve thrashed Team Galactic’s own commanders Mars and Jupiter, we’ve come across and defeated a fellow lady of quality (a cowgirl trainer also running a team of bidoofs) and now we stand resolute in Veilstone city at the entrance to Maylene’s gym.
Now, I thought defeating Gardenia was a struggle. Being part water type, Team BIDOOF were at a disadvantage from the off. The speed of her Roserade was devastating and a single grass knot was enough to one-shot each of my Pokémon. But somehow I got lucky and earned my second badge.
But Maylene? A fighting type gym? Ooft. Or should I say Bidooft.
Fortunately, three of my Team have tricks up their sleeves… They know Pluck! that sweet sweet flying type advantage should get me through most of the gym.
But I remember what is coming from my first play through. The Pain. The Horror. The Sheer Speed.
Maylene’s Lucario.
Bidooft.