In the vast world of Pokémon, certain creatures stand out, not just for their power, but for their unique stories. While Legendary and Mythical Pokémon often grab the spotlight, there are other, less celebrated Pokémon that possess fascinating narratives. One such Pokémon is Feebas, a Water-type known for its drab appearance. However, the Pokémon Adventures manga series, also known as Pokémon Special, elevates this often-overlooked creature, highlighting its surprising depth and beauty.
The Unassuming Feebas: More Than Meets the Eye
Feebas is often described as the “shabbiest” of all Pokémon, with ragged fins and a dull, brown color. In the games, this Fish Pokémon is notoriously difficult to find, dwelling in the murky waters of rivers and ponds. It’s a Pokémon that is largely ignored by trainers and researchers alike. It is often seen as weak and unappealing, and its design doesn’t initially strike one as particularly inspiring. Feebas is known to be hardy, capable of living in polluted waters and surviving on very little. This tenacity, despite its unappealing appearance, is a key aspect of its character, especially in the manga.
A Stark Contrast: Feebas and Beauty
The Pokémon Adventures manga, particularly the Ruby & Sapphire arc, introduces us to Ruby, a protagonist obsessed with Pokémon Contests and the concept of beauty. Ruby’s primary focus is on the aesthetic appeal of Pokémon, making him initially repulsed by the unsightly Feebas. This sets the stage for a compelling narrative arc where Ruby’s preconceived notions about beauty are challenged.
Feebas’s Journey in Pokémon Adventures
The story of Feebas in the manga begins in chapter 206, titled “Not So Fetching Feebas,” when Ruby reluctantly helps a Swimmer look for the elusive Pokémon. During this encounter, Ruby repeatedly catches Feebas but throws them back, disgusted by their appearance. This is until one Feebas, in an unexpected turn of events, uses its ability to protect Ruby from an attack, revealing a hidden strength. Despite Ruby’s initial reluctance, he is forced to keep the Feebas and eventually names her “Feefee.” This moment marks a turning point in their relationship, as it is the beginning of their journey together and the beginning of Ruby’s own character arc.
The Evolution of a Bond
Feefee’s significance in the story transcends her role as just another Pokémon. She becomes a symbol of loyalty and inner beauty, challenging Ruby’s superficial standards. Ruby’s bond with Feefee grows gradually, especially as he uses her for the Beauty Contests. While Ruby originally saw her as a means to an end for his contests, Feefee’s dedication and unexpected abilities allow her to become a crucial member of Ruby’s team. In the “Hanging Around With Slaking III” chapter, during a fight with his father, Norman, Feefee saves Ruby and Norman from falling off the side of a building. It is after this incident that Ruby decides to keep her and use her for the beauty segment of Pokemon Contests.
From Feebas to Milotic: A Metamorphosis
In the Pokémon world, Feebas is known to evolve into the majestic Milotic, a beautiful Water-type Pokémon. However, this evolution isn’t just about a physical transformation; it also represents the growth of Ruby’s understanding of true beauty. In the manga, Feefee’s evolution is a significant moment, occurring after 60 chapters as a Feebas, and it highlights the theme that beauty can come from unexpected places. Feefee’s evolution into Milotic is not only a testament to her own strength and resilience, but it is a key part of Ruby’s own growth and character development.
Feefee’s Impact: Beyond Beauty Contests
Feefee becomes instrumental in Ruby’s journey throughout the Ruby & Sapphire and subsequent arcs of the manga. She plays a key role in Ruby’s Pokémon Contest performances, helping him achieve success through multiple ranks, from Normal to Hyper. Her ability, along with Ruby’s skills as a coordinator, propels them forward, earning them recognition and growth.
Feefee’s evolution into Milotic is also significant due to the lore surrounding how Feebas evolves. In the games, Feebas evolves into Milotic either when its beauty stat has reached the maximum or when it’s traded holding a Prism Scale. In the manga, Feefee’s evolution represents a change in Ruby’s own perception of beauty.
Loyalty and Determination
Throughout the series, Feefee’s loyalty to Ruby is unwavering. Even when Ruby is struggling to understand his feelings for her, she stands by his side. This loyalty is evident when Feefee goes all the way to Sootopolis City in order to make up with Ruby in “It All Ends Now VII.” Her journey highlights the fact that a Pokémon’s value extends far beyond its physical attributes.
The Lasting Legacy of Feebas in Pokémon Adventures
The Pokémon Adventures manga series offers a more profound exploration of Feebas than the games, which primarily focus on the difficulty of finding and evolving the Pokémon. The manga highlights the themes of inner beauty, loyalty, and personal growth through Feefee’s transformation. In the manga, Feefee’s character is not only well-developed, but she is one of the highest-leveled of Ruby’s Pokémon, further showcasing her strength and significance.
A Fan Favorite
Feefee’s story in the manga has resonated deeply with fans. Many have stated that the Feebas arc in the manga made Feebas one of their most beloved and favorite Pokémon. This is due in part to the way her story is written, which really makes the reader believe that even though Feebas is an ugly, seemingly unwanted Pokémon, that she has a heart of gold.
A Different Perspective
Feebas’s story in Pokémon Adventures underscores a powerful message: appearances can be deceiving, and true beauty lies within. The manga series masterfully demonstrates that even the most unassuming creatures can possess remarkable qualities. This perspective encourages trainers and fans to look beyond the surface and appreciate the hidden potential of all Pokémon. This storyline has given many fans a new way to look at Feebas, a Pokémon that is often dismissed due to its physical appearance, encouraging them to look past the surface and appreciate the Pokémon for what it truly is.
In conclusion, while Feebas may appear as an ordinary, even ugly Pokémon in the games, its portrayal in the Pokémon Adventures manga elevates it to a symbol of inner beauty, loyalty, and personal transformation. Feefee’s journey is one that showcases not only the potential within the Pokémon itself, but the potential within those who are open to seeing past the surface. The story of Feebas in the manga is a wonderful example of how a creature that is seemingly unimportant can be the source of many lessons and have one of the most beautiful character arcs in the entire series.
