They might not have been able to compete on the same stage.
But Baimu could still battle Ursula on the ferry. As long as they avoided moves powerful enough to damage the ship, the crew wouldn't stop them.
"Garchomp..."
She glanced at the big shark beside her, so sleepy she could barely keep her eyes open. After a moment's hesitation, Ursula chose another Pokémon—
An adorable Wigglytuff.
"Puff!"
Wigglytuff had once partnered with Gabite at the Olivine Conference in Sinnoh, putting on an excellent performance. Unfortunately, it had never battled in the anime, so Baimu knew little about it.
After a few seconds' thought, he sent out Shiny Milotic.
"Milo~"
The beautiful serpent appeared with a soft cry. Its brilliant golden scales and smooth, cream-colored body seemed edged in gold beneath the direct sunlight. As though it carried its own spotlight, it radiated an effortless elegance that drew the attention of nearby passengers and Pokémon.
A Shiny Milotic!
Its rarity drew them closer. When they realized a battle was about to start, they gathered in small groups to watch.
Garchomp, who had been nodding off, snapped awake at the sight of Milotic. Her pale golden dragon eyes slowly widened, and she looked not only alert but eager to spring into action.
Ursula and Wigglytuff looked dazzled too.
"So beautiful..."
"Puff~"
Milotic's looks and bearing could captivate anyone, but Garchomp's reaction seemed especially strong.
But aren't you female?
Baimu took another look at her dorsal fin, confirming once again that it lacked the notch found only on males.
Perhaps there was another reason.
He didn't dwell on it. He raised a hand, signaling Milotic to prepare for battle.
The battle area might have been on the ferry's deck, but it still counted as a waterside environment. The moist air clearly favored