In the forest on the way back to Professor Kukui's house,
Ash and the others were waiting for Rockruff to return triumphant.
Li Wei had already headed back with Lucario.
Professor Kukui smiled at Ash.
"Ash, you've earned Rockruff's approval, and the bond between you is already strong enough."
"I think it's time."
"Woof!"
Watching Rockruff run toward him, Ash nodded solemnly and took out an empty Poké Ball.
"Rockruff, would you like to be my partner?"
"Woof!"
Rockruff wagged its tail vigorously.
"Great!" Ash gently touched the Poké Ball to Rockruff's forehead.
With a soft ding, the capture succeeded without the Poké Ball even shaking once.
Following Professor Kukui's advice, Ash finally caught the wild Rockruff.
"I caught Rockruff!"
"Pika-pika-chu!"
At home on Melemele Island,
"Can't we watch Sinnoh news in the Alola Region?"
"Never mind. Let's watch the livestream."
"Rotom, switch to the livestream!"
"No problem, roto!"
Cynthia appeared on the television, standing onstage.
"There she is, roto!"
Since Cynthia had appeared on the television,
Shaymin, Meloetta, Diancie, and Victini all gathered in front of it.
"You're blocking Hoopa!"
"Hoopa, you're blocking me."
"All right, everyone, sit on the couch to watch."
Although nearsightedness wasn't an issue,
they were certainly blocking Li Wei's view.
Cynthia had specifically asked Li Wei to make time to watch.
A surprising discovery had recently emerged in the historical and archaeological circles of the Sinnoh Region.
Professor Rowan had been working flat out these past few days and had finally finished updating the Pokédex and all the relevant data.
A sensational press conference was being held at the History Museum in Eterna City.
Cynthia stood onstage,
while Professor Rowan and the Celestic Town museum director, Cynthia's grandmother Professor Carolina, sat below.
Li Wei could also see his cousin Vera sitting perfectly straight,