“We get stronger,” I said, determination burning in my chest. “And next time, we don’t let him escape.”
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I blinked. "Wait... you mean me?"
Nini gave an exasperated "Nidoooo" and lightly bopped my forehead with her paw.
Lillie giggled. "Looks like she already made up her mind."
I stared at Nini, then at the others, then back at Nini. My heart swelled. "You... you really want me to be your trainer?"
Nini nodded firmly, her red eyes shining with determination.
Bellis tapped her chin. "It’s not unheard of for Pokémon to evolve quicker when they feel a deep bond with someone. But this is still quite the surprise."
Blue smirked. "Well, are you gonna catch her or what?"
Pikachu hopped onto my shoulder, letting out an encouraging "Pika pika!"
I laughed, reaching into my pocket and pulling out a Poké Ball. "Alright, Nini. If you're sure..."
Nini didn't even hesitate. She pressed her nose against the Poké Ball, and in a flash of red light, she disappeared inside. The ball wobbled once—just once—before clicking shut.
Lillie clapped her hands together. "She didn’t even resist!"
Paulo crossed his arms with a small smile. "That’s because she already decided a long time ago."
I held the Poké Ball in my hands, feeling a warmth spread through me. "Well then," I said softly, "Welcome to the team, Nini."
The baby Pokémon cheered, jumping around excitedly. Blue scoffed but grinned. "Great. Another stubborn Pokémon to match her stubborn trainer."
I shot him a look. "Oh, shut up, Blue."
He smirked. "Make me."
Lillie sighed. "You two are impossible."
I laughed, then looked at the Poké Ball in my hand, my grip tightening slightly.
This fight wasn’t over. Giovanni was still out there. And now, more than ever, I needed to be ready.
But at least… I wasn’t alone.
I glanced around at my team, my friends, and my partner Pikachu, who gave me an affectionate nuzzle. I smiled.
"Alright, everyone," I said, standing tall. "Let’s get to work."
Because Giovanni had made one fatal mistake.
He let me live.
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