Summoning Pokémon in Naruto

The discovery of evolution in Pokémon had revealed a phenomenon that could drastically alter their appearance and strength. However, since Growlithe's birth, aside from its physical growth and improved moves, it had shown no unusual signs.

"Summon your Growlithe," Hayato said calmly. "Its evolution is crucial to our mission."

Kushina hesitated for a moment but nodded, trusting that Hayato had a plan. She retrieved her Poké Ball and summoned Growlithe.

"Woof!"

The little Growlithe barked joyfully, running a quick circle around the two before obediently sitting beside Chimchar. Over time, Growlithe had come to understand its role as Kushina's partner, specially chosen by Hayato. It looked up to Chimchar as a "big brother" figure, though deep down, it couldn't shake the impression that Chimchar's current size was unusual for its species.

"Alright, let's prepare for evolution!" Hayato said, pulling out both Fire-type and Fighting-type energy cubes. "Chimchar, you're up first."

Post-evolution, Chimchar would become Infernape, a Fire- and Fighting-type Pokémon. Feeding it Fighting-type energy cubes before evolution would further enhance its abilities.

Over the past two years, Hayato had accumulated a substantial amount of energy cubes—enough to pile into a small mountain.

Chimchar leapt to its feet, excitement shining in its eyes. It had been waiting for this moment for what felt like an eternity. For Chimchar, evolving wasn't just about getting stronger for itself—it was about protecting Hayato.

Without hesitation, it began devouring the energy cubes, consuming a two-month supply in a matter of minutes, leaving only a few Fire-type cubes behind.

"Chimchar, don't eat so fast! Leave some for Growlithe!" Kushina laughed, unable to hide her amusement.

Suddenly, Chimchar froze mid-motion. Its body began emitting a dazzling white light.

"Is this… evolution?"

Even though Hayato had seen countless Pokémon evolutions in animations in his past life, witnessing Chimchar's evolution firsthand stirred an unmistakable excitement in his chest.

"Chaaaaaar!"

Within the glowing light, Chimchar let out an exhilarated cry. Its body stretched and expanded, muscles becoming more defined. The light gradually dimmed, revealing a completely transformed Pokémon.

It wasn't Chimchar anymore—it was Infernape.

Infernape rose to its full height, standing nearly a head taller than Hayato, with a commanding stature of about 1.8 meters. Its face bore deep blue, mask-like markings, and the flames on its tail burned with a newfound intensity. The powerful fire it exhaled from its mouth left no doubt about its newfound strength.

[Name: Infernape]

[Gender: Male]

[Ability: Blaze (Boosts the power of Fire-type moves when HP is low)]

[Type: Fire/Fighting]

[Held Item: Charcoal]

[Moves: Scratch, Leer, Double Kick, Fire Punch, Fake Out, Ember, Taunt, Fury Swipes, Flame Wheel, Nasty Plot, Uproar, Feint, Thunder Punch, Agility, Flame Charge, Mach Punch, Flamethrower]

"What kind of summoning beast is this?" Asako whispered, her eyes wide with disbelief. The sheer presence emanating from Infernape was overwhelming. She couldn't imagine standing a chance against such a creature.

Kushina, holding her Pokédex, let the mechanical voice explain: "Infernape, the Playful Pokémon. The final form of Chimchar, it can use walls and ceilings to launch aerial attacks. The flames on its tail are also powerful weapons."

Infernape's fiery gaze locked onto Hayato as it let out a low growl, radiating its readiness for battle.

"Excellent," Hayato said with a satisfied nod. He had worried that Chimchar's evolution might make it harder to control, but Infernape's loyalty was unwavering.

"Now, it's your turn, Growlithe," Hayato said with a smile, pulling out a Fire Stone and handing it to Kushina.

"Once Growlithe finishes the energy cubes, use this Fire Stone to help it evolve."

Growlithe's eyes sparkled with excitement as it looked up at Kushina, its tail wagging furiously.

"Go ahead, Growlithe," Kushina said softly, stroking its head. "I'm sorry for taking you on such a dangerous journey, but I know you're ready."

Growlithe barked twice in response, as if reassuring her of its willingness.

Soon, Growlithe, too, was enveloped in a radiant white light. The glow obscured its transformation, leaving everyone in suspense.

When the light subsided, a magnificent creature emerged—a majestic Arcanine.

Its fur was thicker, its orange-and-black stripes more pronounced. Its tail and limbs were adorned with ivory fur, giving it an air of regal strength.

Even Infernape glanced at Arcanine with a hint of awe. "How did the 'little one' end up taller than me?" it seemed to wonder.

"This is Arcanine," Hayato explained. "According to the Pokédex, it can travel over 6,200 miles in a single day and night. With it, we'll reach Uzushiogakure in record time."

Kushina threw herself onto Arcanine, burying her face in its warm fur. "Arcanine, you're absolutely stunning!"

Arcanine let out a soft rumble of affection, then turned its resolute gaze toward Hayato, ready for the mission.

Hayato addressed the astonished Asako. "Arcanine will be our transportation. The three of us can just about fit on its back. Once we leave the village, we'll ride it straight to the Fire Nation's border and then sneak into Uzushiogakure."

Asako nodded fervently, her doubts slowly giving way to trust. If Hayato was this confident, he must have a solid plan.

Glancing at the clock, Hayato noted that it was still early. They had a few hours before they could slip out unnoticed.

But first, they needed to evade the ANBU surveillance.

Hayato's expression darkened slightly. Despite his growing influence, Hiruzen Sarutobi would never permit him to leave without authorization. If he alerted the Hokage, the mission would be over before it began.

"Not yet. I'm not strong enough to take on the Third Hokage," Hayato thought grimly.