Love and Bonds

They had made some headway with Steelix's problem. Now it was time for the second battle.

Chansey versus Blissey.

Sure enough, the Happiny that had evolved into Chansey during the Sinnoh journey had evolved again, becoming Blissey.

The fierce battle between the two Steelix had drawn quite a crowd to the grass near the Battle Arena. People watched with curiosity on their faces.

No one came over to interrupt. No one left, either.

Their enthusiasm alone showed just how popular Pokémon battles were.

Unfortunately, Baimu's Chansey lost quickly.

Brock's Blissey had easily countered Toxic with Heal Bell. Without its only way to deal damage, Chansey was like a specialist whose signature pick had been banned: out of the match on the spot. Dragging things out would only waste time.

Baimu conceded without hesitation.

At first, Brock did not understand why he would not continue. But when he learned that Chansey could not attack directly, and why, he fell silent. After a while, he said, "I knew you were a good guy when we met, but you've still exceeded my expectations."

"Uh, thanks?"

"When you had a Pokémon that couldn't battle, you didn't force it or abandon it. Instead, you helped it work through its troubles, step by step. You already have the qualities it takes to become an excellent breeder."

Brock patted Baimu on the shoulder. "I've seen trainers abandon Pokémon just because they couldn't battle the way they wanted, never mind Pokémon that couldn't battle at all. You understand how your Pokémon feels. That really moves me."

As a passionate young... man, Brock was easily swept up in his emotions.

The battle had been brief, but the understanding between Baimu and Chansey—and the connection in their eyes when they looked at each other—could only have come from their Bond.