The Jade Chamber floated above Liyue, its grand and elegant structure casting a reflection on the shimmering ocean below. Today, however, the Jade Chamber wasn't serving its usual role of strategic planning and overseeing Liyue's business affairs. Instead, it had become a hub of curiosity and laughter. Ningguang had decided that she needed a day off to properly understand Pokémon, and what better place to do so than in her own Jade Chamber? She had invited several of Liyue's residents to join her, and the atmosphere was one of relaxed excitement.
The massive room was adorned with plush cushions, tables of snacks, and, of course, Ningguang's own Pokémon, Rotom, who had taken to amusing itself by zipping in and out of various gadgets. Each time it did, the object seemed to come to life, buzzing or lighting up, much to everyone's surprise.
"Rotom, do be careful. Some of those devices are rather delicate," Ningguang said, her voice even yet tinged with amusement. She sat elegantly on a cushion, watching as the lively ghost-electric Pokémon sparked joy into the gathering. Beside her, Ganyu, her ever-dedicated secretary, was also seated, Snorunt peeking out shyly from behind her, seemingly curious yet cautious.
"Yes, Lady Ningguang," Ganyu said, trying to keep her attention on both Snorunt and the conversation. "I think Rotom is very energetic today. It must be excited to be around so many people."
Ningguang smiled. "I do believe you're right, Ganyu. This is an interesting way to spend the day, don't you think? A nice change from business negotiations and contracts."
Ganyu nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it's refreshing. And seeing everyone interact with the Pokémon is wonderful. It's almost like they've always belonged here in Liyue."
---
At the other end of the room, Hu Tao was busy trying to introduce Shuppet to Xiangling's Charmander and Lotad. "Come on, Shuppet! Say hi to Charmander! Don't be shy!" Hu Tao urged, her playful voice filled with excitement.
Shuppet floated closer to Charmander, its ghostly form wavering slightly as it approached. Charmander looked up, its flame-tipped tail flickering with curiosity. "Char?" it said, tilting its head.
Lotad, on the other hand, seemed content to sit quietly, its lily-pad-like body swaying gently as it watched the others. Xiangling laughed, scratching her head. "I think Shuppet might need a bit more time, Hu Tao. It looks a little nervous. Maybe something to eat would help!"
Hu Tao perked up, her eyes twinkling. "Food, you say? How about some of those sweet buns we brought? They're supposed to be for us, but I think sharing them with the Pokémon might be fun!"
Ningguang overheard them, her eyes narrowing in a playful warning. "Just be careful not to spoil them too much, Hu Tao. Otherwise, they might start expecting snacks every time they visit."
Hu Tao grinned mischievously. "Oh, come on, Lady Ningguang! What's life without a little indulgence now and then?" She picked up a sweet bun and offered it to Shuppet, who hesitated for a moment before taking a tentative nibble. The look of delight that crossed Shuppet's face made everyone laugh.
"See? Even ghosts need a little sweetness in their lives," Hu Tao said proudly.
Ganyu couldn't help but smile. "It seems like they're getting along well. Pokémon really do bring a different kind of joy to everyone."
---
At another corner of the Jade Chamber, Chongyun was busy trying to bond with his Duskull. Chongyun, ever the serious exorcist, had taken it upon himself to ensure that Duskull felt welcomed and at ease. But Duskull seemed more interested in playing harmless pranks, like phasing through Chongyun's back and giving him the occasional chill.
Xingqiu, who had Finneon with him, couldn't stop laughing as Chongyun shivered for the umpteenth time. "Chongyun, you need to lighten up a little. Duskull is just having fun," Xingqiu said, his voice filled with amusement.
Chongyun huffed, crossing his arms as he looked at Duskull, who hovered beside him, its one glowing eye blinking innocently. "I just want it to know that I'm not afraid. I want us to work together as partners."
Xingqiu smiled, patting Chongyun on the back. "You're doing fine, Chongyun. It takes time for Pokémon to bond with us. Just like people, they need to know they can trust you."
Finneon swam through the air, using its Water Gun to make small water rings, which it seemed to enjoy hopping through. Duskull watched with interest before giving an eerie but friendly laugh, clearly warming up to the playful atmosphere.
Ningguang observed the interactions with satisfaction. She leaned closer to Ganyu, speaking in a soft voice. "You see, Ganyu? Pokémon bring out something unique in each of us. Even someone as serious as Chongyun finds himself smiling because of them."
Ganyu nodded. "Yes, Lady Ningguang. I think... I think I'm starting to understand why Hiroshi is so determined to introduce them to everyone. They really do make a difference."
---
As the day continued, Ningguang decided it was time for a small demonstration. She stood up, gathering everyone's attention with her commanding presence. "Everyone, I think it's time we see what our Pokémon are truly capable of. How about a little friendly contest?"
Hu Tao's eyes lit up with excitement. "Ohhh, a contest?! What kind of contest, Lady Ningguang?"
Ningguang smiled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Let's have a Pokémon talent show. Each of you can showcase a unique move or skill your Pokémon has learned. It doesn't have to be about power—it could be something creative or entertaining. Let's see what makes your Pokémon special."
Chongyun looked unsure, while Xiangling immediately clapped her hands in excitement. "Oh, this is going to be so much fun! Lotad has been practicing a little dance move!"
Hu Tao nudged Chongyun playfully. "Come on, Chongyun! Duskull's got some moves, I can tell. Let's show everyone!"
Xingqiu smiled, nudging Finneon forward. "This should be interesting. Finneon has a trick or two up its sleeve as well."
---
The talent show began with Xiangling and Lotad. Xiangling clapped her hands rhythmically as Lotad began to sway side to side, its little feet shuffling in time with the beat. It wasn't exactly graceful, but Lotad's enthusiastic dance had everyone laughing and clapping along.
Hu Tao was up next, and Shuppet floated forward, creating small, ghostly images of itself that floated around Hu Tao as she danced playfully. The combination of Hu Tao's high energy and Shuppet's eerie illusions made for an oddly entertaining performance that had the audience both impressed and amused.
Chongyun took a deep breath as he stepped up with Duskull. "Alright, Duskull, let's show them what we've got," he said, trying his best to sound confident.
Duskull floated up, its body glowing faintly as it used Will-O-Wisp, sending out small, flickering blue flames that danced in the air. Chongyun watched, his eyes widening slightly as he realized how beautiful the flames were. Duskull gave a shy laugh, clearly proud of its performance.
"That was amazing, Chongyun!" Xingqiu called out, clapping enthusiastically. "See? You and Duskull make a great team."
Chongyun blushed slightly but smiled, giving Duskull a nod of approval. "Thank you, Duskull. You did well."
Finally, it was Xingqiu and Finneon's turn. Finneon used its Water Gun to create small bubbles, which it then swam through gracefully, the bubbles catching the light and creating small rainbows. It was a simple but elegant performance, and everyone applauded as Finneon finished with a flourish.
Ningguang clapped her hands, her eyes filled with warmth. "Well done, everyone. Each of your Pokémon has something special to offer, and it's clear that they all share a strong bond with their trainers."
Ganyu looked at Snorunt, who was watching the performances with wide eyes. She smiled gently. "Maybe next time, Snorunt and I will join in too."
Ningguang placed a hand on Ganyu's shoulder. "There's no rush, Ganyu. Pokémon, like people, grow at their own pace. And I have no doubt that when the time comes, you and Snorunt will shine."
---
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Jade Chamber, the group gathered for a final toast—tea for some, and sweet juice for others. Ningguang raised her cup, her eyes filled with determination and warmth.
"To the bonds we forge, both with each other and with our Pokémon. May they continue to grow stronger with each passing day."
"Cheers!" everyone echoed, their voices filled with joy and camaraderie.
As they drank, Ningguang looked out over the horizon, her heart full. Today had been a reminder of the importance of bonds—not just in business or power, but in friendship, in joy, and in the small moments that made life truly meaningful.
Rotom buzzed around her head, sparking with excitement, and Ningguang smiled. She knew that this was only the beginning—both for her, for Liyue, and for the Pokémon that had become such an important part of their lives.