Pokemon: Farm Story

Throwing a straight ball—direct and straightforward—is a high-level yet incredibly effective strategy.

Though simple and lacking intricate techniques, mastering this skill isn't common.

In countless romance anime, there are only a handful of characters who can wield this approach effectively.

Rather than directly expressing feelings, many seem to prefer engaging in a game of back-and-forth probing. Even when a straightforward confession would guarantee success, they insist on dragging it out.

It's like fencing, like dancing a tango.

Or like playing Nasus in top lane and being kited endlessly by a Vayne.

The renowned love theorist Kaguya Shinomiya, who once said, "Love is war—whoever confesses first loses," would argue that the key to winning lies in making the other party confess first.

To put it plainly, the one confessing first is essentially offering themselves up as prey for taming.

Based on this theory, we often see characters in anime saying things like, "She's cute, but I don't like her," or "I'd never be with him," only to end up eating their words or crying in a corner, lamenting, "I was here first!"

To such losers, we can only say: Please calm down. It's not the season for White Album anymore.

Eris Sawamura, a poster child for such characters, would likely have a lot to say. If necessary, she could write a 100,000-word dissertation titled A Hundred Ways to Lose Despite a Perfect Start.

In contrast, there's the "straight ball" faction.

Instead of intricate maneuvers and convoluted tactics, they believe in boldly laying their emotions bare, presenting their feelings openly, and ensuring the other person understands.

Love should be shouted out loud!

Denji, the "uneducated but straightforward" protagonist, once declared, "I want to be Miss Makima's dog."

He got his wish, being turned into her literal plaything.

And then he inherited her dog.

It's like a dog owning another dog—layers of irony.

Anyway, back on topic.

Though Natsume lacked romantic experience, his extensive anime-watching history had taught him a vital truth: Hesitation leads to defeat.

Thus, he was firmly in the "straight ball" camp, much like how certain generals' families have unwavering loyalty to triangular underwear.

"...Suo..."

An unexpected turn of events.

Zorua, observing from the sidelines, found the scene utterly riveting.

If only there were snacks to munch on while watching this drama unfold—it'd be perfect.

"Umma…"

The sudden invitation left Ogerpon flustered.

When someone is moved, their judgment often falters.

It's akin to proposing marriage when emotions are high—there's a good chance of success. Wait until they're calm, though, and the odds aren't as favorable.

Like a four-panel comic where a knight proposes with a ring labeled INT-7. The girl, touched, says, "Yes." But after wearing the ring and gaining intelligence, she rethinks and promptly declines.

"Mhmm, mmm…"

Covering her face, Ogerpon's mind raced at unprecedented speed.

This was her peak performance, even if her thoughts were absurd—What pose should I use to say yes? Would accepting immediately seem too eager? If I agree, should I move in with Natsume right away?

Amidst the chaos, a shred of logic prevailed.

Do I like Natsume?

Yes.

Is Natsume a good person?

Yes.

Would joining Natsume bring any downsides?

None.

Would Natsume treat his Pokémon well?

Absolutely.

So…

Is there any reason to refuse?

None.

"Mhmm!"

The answer was clear!

Behind her mask, Ogerpon's gaze firmed up, radiating determination.

"Mhmmm!"

I pledge my loyalty! (Or something like that.)

I'm willing to become Natsume's partner!

With that, Ogerpon reached out her small hand.

Seeing her response, Natsume smiled and extended his hand as well.

A large hand and a small hand lightly met in the air.

With that, their bond was sealed.

If this were a game, you'd probably hear some narrator declaring the partnership formed.

But this wasn't a game.

Here, both humans and Pokémon were alive and real.

They weren't just cold data or NPCs acting on pre-set logic.

When faced with living, breathing Pokémon in this world, even the coldest person would inevitably change.

Even the antagonists of the Pokémon world rarely aim for outright destruction.

Giovanni sought to overturn the League and reshape the world.

The goals of Team Aqua and Team Magma were to expand the sea and land, respectively.

By the time of Sword and Shield, Team Yell was just Marnie's passionate fan club.

Their so-called "evil deeds" often boiled down to blocking the protagonist's journey and creating minor inconveniences.

Some even helped people.

That's the kind of "villains" we have in the Pokémon world.

Pulling out a Poké Ball from his bag, Natsume held it up toward Ogerpon.

Before he could say anything, Ogerpon took the initiative to press her hand against the button, letting the red light envelop her.

The Poké Ball wobbled slightly before clicking into place with a soft chime, signaling a successful capture.

Though it was just an ordinary Poké Ball, it now held a mythical Grass-type Pokémon.

It felt surreal, like a tabby cat falling for a pure white one.

(For those unfamiliar with the analogy: a tabby cat is like Liu Yifei, while a white cat… well… is like you, dear reader. Crossed out.)

"Poof!"

In a flash of light, Ogerpon emerged from the Poké Ball.

For her, the Poké Ball wasn't restrictive at all. She had to be careful not to accidentally break the delicate device.

Poké Ball: I'm full! I can't take it anymore! (Crying).

"Feeling better?" Natsume asked with a smile, watching Ogerpon, now lively and spirited.

"Mhhmm!"

Brimming with energy!

"Good, then let's get along well from now on, Ogerpon."

"Mhmm!"

Clutching her precious gift tightly, Ogerpon nodded enthusiastically.

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