"Yuli, I think you should also consider training your Gloom and Marill during your free time. It's always good to be prepared," Rex suddenly suggested to Yuli, who was quietly listening to their discussion.
"Is it necessary? I'm quite content with my current life, and I believe your protection is more than enough. It's better to let Yui and Karen focus on training their Taillow," Yuli replied, gazing at Rex for a moment before speaking with a hint of relief.
This was her true sentiment. Yuli knew she wasn't suited to be a Trainer. She lacked the strong desire to win and didn't want her Pokémon to get hurt. She simply wanted to work diligently at Rex Farm, providing support to Rex, which made her happy.
Yuli envisioned her future role as an excellent Pokémon Breeder, ensuring the Pokémon at Rex Farm grew healthily and swiftly. That was her priority.
Rex wasn't disappointed by Yuli's response. After all, he had only casually mentioned it. If Yuli ever wanted to travel, he could accompany her or send his Pokémon to protect her.
"Swellow, stop napping and come eat!" Rex called out, scanning the area and noticing something amiss. He spotted Swellow sleeping on a distant slope.
Hearing Rex's call, Swellow opened its eyes, flapped its wings, and appeared in front of Rex without causing any disturbance.
Watching Swellow peck at a berry, Rex was inwardly amazed. Swellow had seemingly teleported to him, a remarkable feat. This move was reminiscent of Quick Attack, but Swellow executed it effortlessly and without causing any air turbulence.
Rex surmised that Swellow had combined Quick Attack and Tailwind, indicating a deep understanding of these moves, even altering their usual mechanics. This mastery allowed Swellow to gain an upper hand in close combat, making it difficult for opponents to predict its attack position.
"Swellow, Swellow!" Swellow felt uneasy under Rex's scrutiny, chirping before subtly distancing itself and continuing to eat.
"You cheeky bird!" Rex was both amused and exasperated by Swellow's antics but chose to let it be.
At that moment, Rex's phone rang.
"Hello, is this Rex?" came May's voice.
"Yes, it's me. Where are you now, May?" Rex asked upon seeing her call.
"We're heading to Slateport City. I plan to participate in the Grand Festival there. I've already earned five ribbons, so I'm eligible to compete. The Grand Festival is in five days, and since your home is near Slateport City, I wanted to invite you to watch my contest," May said, her excitement palpable.
"Congratulations, May! I'll definitely be there to cheer you on. I hope you perform well at the Grand Festival!" Rex replied, not surprised by her success, knowing her talent for contests.
After a few more words, they ended the call.
"Boss, is this the friend you met on your last journey?" Yuli asked curiously.
"Yes, her name is May. She was my companion on my last journey and will compete in the Grand Festival in Slateport City. She invited me to watch. Do you all want to come too?" Rex explained and then asked.
"Can we? Boss, I want to go!" Yui was the first to respond eagerly.
"Me too!" Karen added shyly, looking forward to visiting a big city and watching the contest live.
"The farm can't be left unattended, so I'll stay and take care of it," Yuli decided after some thought.
"Don't worry about the farm. We'll only be gone for a few days, and with the Swellow tribe patrolling, nothing will happen. Slateport City is close, and we can return quickly," Rex reassured, hoping Yuli would take a break.
"Yes, Sister Yuli, come with us! I want to go shopping and eat delicious food with you," Yui urged.
"Yuli, if you don't come, Yui and I would feel bad going without you. Please, come for our sake!" Karen added.
"Alright, I'll go with you to cheer for Rex's friend," Yuli finally agreed, swayed by their persuasion.
"Great! I'll buy the tickets for the Grand Festival now so we won't be left out," Rex said, mounting Swellow and flying to Slateport City.
Upon arriving, he quickly bought four adjacent tickets for the Grand Festival, learning from the ticket seller that only a few were left. Had he been later, they might have missed out.
Returning to Jade Moon Lake in less than half an hour, Rex's efficiency impressed everyone.
"Boss, you're so quick!" Yui remarked, slightly complaining about how fast he had left.
Rex's prompt return from his swift journey left them all in awe. The day continued peacefully at Jade Moon Lake, with everyone, both humans and Pokémon, enjoying the tranquil moment and forgetting their worries.
(End of chapter)