The announcement stunned everyone, and the new students below the stage erupted into chatter.
That, however, was exactly the reaction the principal had wanted.
"Do you think this is cruel? The world outside is far crueler. And because Pokémon Trainers work with Pokémon so often, the risk of injury and death is always there. A mistake during move training, a disaster while exploring the wilderness, an accident while collecting research samples, or inadequate care that leads to a Pokémon's death-things like these happen almost every day. One careless mistake could leave you with lifelong regrets."
As he spoke, the principal deliberately rolled up his left sleeve, revealing the Mechanical Prosthesis hidden beneath it.
Then he took a Poké Ball from his belt and tossed it onto the ground.
Clack! The Poké Ball struck the ground and opened, instantly releasing a flash of white light.
As the light gradually faded, it revealed a jet-black canine Pokémon with a pair of ramlike horns on its head-a Houndoom.
This Pokémon originated in Western Europe and was extremely rare here in China, but...
An uproar swept through the new students. Some instinctively covered their mouths with both hands, and even Ash, who considered himself well-informed, was horrified.
The Houndoom had lost both hind legs entirely, and a pair of wheels supported its rear half so it could move around.
"My partner and I are the perfect example. Are you prepared to take on risks like these? Being a Pokémon Trainer has never been a game, nor should it be treated as a vessel for your dreams. People only see the glory of being a Pokémon Trainer and overlook the dangers of this world. In that sense, couldn't our school's cruelty be a form of salvation for you? If you truly want to become Pokémon