Capturing Poochyena and Growlithe wasn't easy. Standing on the battlefield, panting heavily, Growlithe watched the fleeing Poochyena, its eyes filled with joy and pride.
It knew it had won this battle, overcoming many opponents with its courage and wisdom.
This victory not only affirmed Growlithe's strength but also recognized its bravery and intelligence.
Growlithe understood that this battle was just a small test in its long journey, and more challenges awaited it in the future.
But no matter how many difficulties and obstacles lay ahead, Growlithe would face them bravely, as a testament to itself and a promise to its owner.
Ignoring the shivering Poochyena, Felix approached Growlithe.
"Well done, Growlithe."
Growlithe panted happily in response, its tongue lolling out.
Felix knelt down, petting Growlithe's head as it licked his hand in return.
"Let's go back and rest for a while."
He returned Growlithe to its Poké Ball, knowing it would help it recover. Growlithe didn't resist, going along willingly.
Felix took out six new Poké Balls, capturing the fainted Poochyena.
Then he threw the remaining Poké Balls at the shivering Poochyena, who had completely lost their will to fight. Felix wasn't worried about failing to capture them.
As expected, after three beeps, the captures were successful.
The ranch was still somewhat empty, and these six Poochyena came at the right time, perfect for security roles.
With the six Poochyena captured, Felix raised the Poké Balls high.
"Great, I captured Poochyena!"
This was his first capture besides his initial Pokémon, making Felix feel especially excited. He shouted out loud.
He released the Poochyena and applied healing potions to them.
The Poochyena let out comfortable whimpers, and their fearful eyes began to show a hint of attachment.
Felix also released Growlithe, applying powerful healing potions to all possible injuries, instantly revitalizing the previously tired Growlithe.
"Woof! Woof! Woof!"
Revitalized, Growlithe licked Felix's hand excitedly, its eyes filled with excitement and attachment.
"Woof!"
Under the effects of the healing potions, the six Poochyena recovered as well, reminding their new owner of their presence with their barks.
"Next, I announce that you six Pokémon officially join the ranch security team. From now on, you'll be responsible for the ranch's safety and vigilance."
Upon hearing this, the previously anxious Poochyena instantly became excited. Their new owner truly intended to keep them, not just use them for amusement.
Facing such a good owner, they vowed to protect the ranch well in the future, not to disappoint their owner, repaying his kindness.
After playing with the seven Pokémon for an afternoon, night fell.
Felix personally prepared dinner, which was curry beef.
The rich curry flavor mixed with the delicious beef was irresistible.
Having expended energy in a battle, Growlithe ate three large bowls.
The six Poochyena, who had previously lived rough, were immediately conquered by such delicious food, eating even more exaggeratedly than Growlithe, downing five bowls each.
Seeing his food so well received, Felix felt a sense of pride, smiling broadly.
Seeing the Pokémon enjoying the meal so much, he too was tempted, eating with a large spoon.
"Woof."
Having just finished three bowls, Growlithe wanted more, seeing the other Pokémon eating so happily.
"Alright, I'll feed you."
He took out a large spoon, scooping a large portion into Growlithe's mouth.
Growlithe gulped it down in one go, showing an expression of enjoyment.
"Come on, don't rush."
Felix fed it another spoonful, saying as he did.
Under Felix's feeding, Growlithe ended up eating more than the six Poochyena, downing six bowls, proving to be a true glutton.
Felix examined Growlithe, noticing some changes.
Pokémon: Growlithe
Type: Fire
Potential: Gym
Ability: Intimidate
Strength: Intermediate (58.7%)
Its strength was still intermediate, but the percentage had increased by 2%. It seemed battles truly catalyzed growth in strength.
Felix considered whether more battles would be beneficial but then dismissed the idea.
His goal here was to be a rancher, not a Pokémon trainer. Battles couldn't become the main focus.
Moreover, Growlithe's rapid strength growth was likely due to the advantage of its first battle. Future battles wouldn't have the same effect.
Eventually, not even 0.2% might be gained.
It seemed he'd have to take it easy, balancing strength growth without too much effort.
No, Pokémon moves were a problem. He couldn't completely slack off; training moves would still be necessary.
Felix shook his head, realizing he couldn't completely slack off. The hard work would fall on his Pokémon.
Moves would improve with practice, without Felix having to put in huge effort, unlike other trainers. This was very satisfying.
After playing with the Pokémon and cleaning up after dinner, Felix went to the second floor of the villa, holding Growlithe, and lay on the bed, counting sheep to fall asleep.
The clear sky with few stars and no crows indicated good weather for tomorrow.
Having slept early, Felix woke up at 5:30 AM the next day.
Seeing the sleeping Growlithe, he smiled.
Carefully moving it out of his arms, he got up and dressed.
When he was done, he turned around to find Growlithe awake.
He petted its head.
"Growlithe, sorry for waking you."
"Woof."
Growlithe shook its head, nuzzling Felix's large hand with its warm head.
"As long as you don't mind."
Felix petted it faster, finally giving it a firm pat.
"Since you're awake, let's go freshen up."
Felix left the room, with Growlithe following.
They went downstairs and freshened up, feeling revitalized.
Felix made breakfast: pancake, soy milk, and bread, which Growlithe enjoyed immensely.
After breakfast, they washed the dishes, and Felix prepared food for the Poochyena.
He might have had a natural talent for cooking; it only took him fifteen minutes to prepare meals for the six dogs.
The food was good; even without waking them, the aroma naturally woke the Poochyena, who came to Felix's feet, looking at him with eager eyes and wagging tails.
"Alright, alright, I'll serve you food right away."
Felix smiled, preparing food for the six Poochyena.
Watching them devour their food, Felix felt satisfied, seeing it as an affirmation of his cooking skills.
"Minccino."
Just as the six Poochyena were eating happily, a clear voice sounded.
Felix looked over and was pleasantly surprised.
It was a cute Pokémon with big ears, a long tail, and gray fur, still looking adorable.
It was a mouse Pokémon called Minccino, an excellent pet Pokémon.
Felix was surprised not because it was a good pet but because of its potential.
Pokémon: Minccino
Type: Normal
Potential: Gym
Ability: Cute Charm
Strength: Beginner (98.4%)
This Minccino had an impressive gym-level potential, the best Felix had seen apart from Growlithe.
He wanted it, his eyes showing desire.
Minccino was too focused on the food to notice Felix's gaze, or it might have been scared.
The six Poochyena stopped eating, glaring angrily at the newcomer.
They thought Minccino was there to steal their food, which no Pokémon could tolerate, especially such delicious food.
"Woof! Woof! Woof....."
The Poochyena growled angrily, startling Minccino.
"Alright, everyone, continue eating. I'll handle this."
Felix calmed the Poochyena.
They retreated, continuing to eat.
Felix took a pancake and some bread, placing them in a bowl for Minccino.
"Here, you can eat too."