>>38564748Interesting that the version exclusives would be the opposite of their respective version
which I like a lot, we could make them two clan-like evolutionary lines that have different values in connections with other Pokémon. The Sword exclusive line could be a more peaceful and cooperative line that have part of their forearms that harden as they evolve, eventually becoming naturally developed shields, while the Shield exclusive are more into using force and fear to get their way, with two protruding bones, one on each arm, to the point they become organic blades. It could also be explained that the reason why the opposing version exclusive is practically nonexistent in the respective title is due to a conflict between the two, with a different result (Shield clan had better bonds with allies and outlasted assaults from the opposing clan, then did them in for good while they were weak. Sword clan had better bonds with allies and performed various attacks that the opposing clan were not able to take, being done in for good during the attacks)
apologies if that sounds a bit too autistic there, just thought the idea would be pretty cool 
