Sorrel solemnly accepted the Poké Ball Flint handed him with both hands.
This Poké Ball felt heavy—not merely because of its weight, but because of the trust and responsibility it carried.
He clipped it to his belt, then looked up at Flint. A trace of worry flashed through his steady eyes.
"Master, what about you? You can't face those five Elite-level Pokémon alone. If you act rashly, it could directly trigger a battle between the wild Pokémon and us. When that happens—"
Flint shook his head, a faint, reassuring smile curling at his lips.
"Don't worry." His voice was firm and composed. "Pewter Gym has long prepared contingencies for a situation like this."
"Deep within Mt. Moon is a Champion-level Pokémon on good terms with Pewter Gym. I'm going to find it now and ask it to stop the battle. That's the only way we might truly avert this crisis."
At that, some of the concern faded from Sorrel's face.
A Champion-level Pokémon—unless Legendary Pokémon appeared, such beings stood at the very pinnacle of this world.
If there truly was someone like that deep in Mt. Moon who was willing to intervene and stop the melee, then the fierce battle between five Elite-level Pokémon might indeed be brought to an end.
"I understand, Master." Sorrel nodded firmly. "Please take care of yourself."
"Mhm." Flint answered, then turned his gaze toward Xia Shu, who had been standing quietly at the side. "Xia Shu, once you're out, follow your senior brother's orders."
Xia Shu puffed out his chest, his voice carrying the particular fervor of youth. "Yes, Master! Don't worry, I definitely won't hold anyone back!"
Flint's lips curled up slightly, revealing a gratified smile.
Sorrel and Xia Shu exchanged a glance and pressed the buttons on the Poké Balls at their