Pokemon: Champion's Path

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"Eldegoss?"

The Eldegoss tilted its head, confusion was evident in its soft gaze. It understood that Eric was extending an invitation, but… what exactly was a farm?

Eric chuckled gently. "A farm is a place where everyone can live, play, and work together."

"On the farm, I can promise you won't face dangers like today's again. You'll be able to grow strong and healthy without worry. Of course," he added with a serious tone, "in exchange, you'll need to contribute to the farm's growth."

Eric made sure to clearly explain the pros and cons of joining the farm. After all, he wasn't wealthy enough to run a charity. His initial goal in seeking Grass-type Pokémon was to help with the farm's future development, and naturally, that meant these Pokémon would have to contribute to the workload.

Even with Serperior around, there were limits to what it could do. Without a move like Grassy Terrain, Serperior could only help to a certain extent.

If Eldegoss and its companions joined, they could take over much of the workload.

Eldegoss first glanced at Eric, then at Serperior the strong, majestic Pokémon it could barely meet the gaze of, yet who had saved them. Lastly, it looked back at the two Cottonee, peacefully sleeping behind it.

Its eyes betrayed its hesitation.

While it cherished its freedom, the ever-present dangers of the wild loomed over the Cottonee. Trading some freedom for safety… could it make that choice?

Scenes flashed through Eldegoss' mind Eric and Serperior arriving like heroes, driving off the Skuntank, the vulnerable state of the Cottonee, and their now peaceful slumber.

Finally, it reached a decision. There was no resistance in its heart, only clarity.

Whether out of gratitude or concern for the Cottonee, it knew what it had to do.

With no further hesitation, Eldegoss nodded firmly, placing its trust and the safety of its companions in Eric's hands.

Seeing Eldegoss' response, Eric's face broke into a warm smile. From his bag, he retrieved three Poké Balls.

One by one, he gently tapped the Cottonee with them, watching as the balls shook three times and clicked shut with a satisfying ping.

Finally, he turned to Eldegoss, holding up the third ball.

Eldegoss blinked and leaned forward, voluntarily touching the ball. Three shakes later, it, too, was captured.

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"Even though I've seen it so many times, I still get a rush of excitement every time I capture a Pokémon," Arven said, a mix of envy and admiration in his voice.

But then, his sharp eyes caught something odd. Pointing to the small grass symbol engraved on the Poké Balls, he asked, "Eric, what's with that little mark on the balls?"

Eric paused mid-motion, smiling faintly. "That mark indicates these Pokémon belong to the farm. They're not part of my personal team for battling."

Arven tilted his head, still a bit confused. "But you're the one who caught them. Isn't that the same thing?"

Eric chuckled but didn't elaborate further. "Come on, let's head back. It's getting late, and I'd rather not be stumbling around in the dark."

Arven nodded, following Eric closely.

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By the time they returned to the farm, night had completely blanketed the sky. The cool evening breeze nipped at their skin, carrying a distinct chill that made Arven shiver.

Without a word, Eric pulled out a new, unopened blanket from his bag and draped it over Arven's shoulders. "This should help keep you warm."

Arven clutched the blanket tightly, feeling its comforting warmth. For a moment, his eyes reddened, overwhelmed by the small yet thoughtful gesture.

Eric, oblivious to Arven's reaction, glanced at the old clock on the wall. Noticing that it was nearing 9 PM, he frowned slightly.

With Arven lacking a phone or any other means of communication, and his own phone still strapped to Dragonite's neck, Eric realized that Sada and Turo were likely worried sick by now.

"I should probably take you home," Eric said thoughtfully. "They're probably really worried about you by now. I'll grab Swampert to come with me he's great for nighttime walks."

Arven's face immediately stiffened, panic flashing in his eyes.

If Eric took him home, his lie about where he'd been would come out. That was the last thing he wanted!

Before he could come up with an excuse, Eric had already pushed open the door, stepping outside to call for Swampert.

But before Eric could get far, a large orange figure descended from the sky, landing with a gust of wind so strong it sent sand flying into Eric's face.

"Dragonite!" Eric growled, spitting out sand. "How many times have I told you to be more careful when landing?! And could you please land more gracefully?"

"Bwoo~" Dragonite looked at Eric with wide, innocent eyes, as if to say, It wasn't my fault you walked out at the wrong time.

It then gently set down the large box it had been carrying before pulling Eric into a tight, affectionate hug.

Eric sighed in defeat. No matter how irritated he felt, it was impossible to stay mad at Dragonite. Especially with its soft, plush belly, it was like hugging a high-end pillow.

All his frustration melted away. "Fine, fine. You're forgiven," he muttered, stepping back as Dragonite let go.

Noticing the emblem on the box, Eric's eye twitched. "Wait a second… this logo…"

Stamped prominently on the side was the insignia of the Silph Co., a globally renowned company based in Kanto's Saffron City.

"Drooo~" Dragonite handed Eric his phone, motioning for him to check it.

Eric took the device, its cracked screen barely functional, and began scrolling through his messages.

As he read, his expression darkened visibly.

"DAMN YOU, LONO!" he shouted at the sky, his voice echoing through the night.

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