"Hmph~ Who knows if it's true, there is absolutely no information about Squirtle on the internet."
Hannah pouted slightly but was mostly just speaking offhandedly.
She had learned almost everything she wanted to know.
"Boss, can Pokémon competitions truly ensure the health and safety of Pokémon?"
Hannah blinked her clear eyes, seeking confirmation from Alex once more.
"Hannah, you don't really plan to have Charmander battle, do you?"
Hearing this, Lily was taken aback and asked Hannah in surprise.
"I'm just asking. If the safety can be guaranteed, then it shouldn't be a problem... right?"
Hannah sounded a bit uncertain because Pokémon competitions were still quite unfamiliar to them.
But to be honest, she was genuinely curious. She was quite competitive by nature and was intrigued by the mysterious realm of Pokémon battles.
"There's no need to worry about safety, as Pokémon have their own protection mechanisms."
Alex explained.
"Pokémon have unique physiologies. As long as their stamina isn't completely depleted, no matter how many hits they take, they'll just enter a state of being unable to battle."
"And this state is also a way of determining the outcome. As long as a Pokémon is incapacitated and doesn't suffer further severe attacks, its life is not at risk."
Of course, this is relatively speaking. Continuous battling without proper care and treatment can lead to underlying injuries in Pokémon.
But these injuries can be prevented, depending on how competent the Trainer is.
"Moreover, I want to emphasize that Pokémon competitions are friendly contests, similar to sports competitions, and will never allow opponents to attack maliciously."
Alex spoke seriously. Although he was eager to promote Pokémon competitions, he wasn't interested in causing harm to Pokémon.
"If it's truly just healthy competition, then it's not unacceptable."
Lily thought carefully, and her acceptance of Pokémon competitions increased.
But...
Lily glanced at Squirtle, pondering if her adorable little Water Pokémon could really take on opponents.
Would it just use its little Water Gun? Or maybe tackle them?
Lily imagined Squirtle clambering onto Charmander and trying to bite its head, and she couldn't help but shiver.
That image was too strange and soulless!
"My little fox is a gentle creature, so she won't be fighting."
Ethan hugged Vulpix gently. Although he was interested in Pokémon competitions, he couldn't bear the thought of his cute Vulpix getting into fights.
If it got hurt, wouldn't he feel guilty?
Hearing this, Alex was momentarily taken aback and then looked at Ethan with a peculiar expression.
"Uh... sir, your Vulpix is actually male."
Alex kindly informed Ethan.
Could this guest have had any misconceptions about Vulpix? People shouldn't, at least not like this!
Ethan's expression froze instantly.
"Male... really?"
Ethan glanced down at Vulpix, who was still yawning adorably. It was so cute, but it turned out to be a male?
Oh, no...
Does that mean it'll be a male Ninetales in the future?
"Vulpix?"
Vulpix, unaware of its Trainer's internal turmoil, blinked its big eyes at Ethan in confusion and let out a soft cry.
"Pfft~"
Seeing this, Lily and Hannah couldn't help but laugh.
"Well~ Boss, how can I make Charmander grow up quickly?"
Seeing Ethan lost in thought, Hannah turned her attention back to Alex.
"Let it be active, ensure it has proper nutrition, and engage in appropriate training."
Alex replied with a chuckle, noting that Pokémon's growth involves many factors.
"Emmm, training."
Hannah looked at Charmander thoughtfully, considering how she might train it.
Exercise, perhaps?
"Or you can engage in lots of battles. Battling will allow you and your Pokémon to gain experience and learn."
Alex suggested to Hannah.
In a sense, battles are the best way to advance!
"If we battle..."
Hannah's eyes lit up as she looked at her good friend Lily.
Yes, she could try a Pokémon battle with Lily to see what it's like.
And she wanted to experience it too!
"Well, I..."
Lily understood what Hannah meant but felt a bit hesitant.
"Come on, ladies, I'll be your opponent!" Suddenly, Ethan's voice chimed in.
Alex, Lily, and Hannah looked at Ethan curiously.
Well, because he had just said moments earlier that he wouldn't let his little Vulpix fight.
"I'm a professional gamer! My Vulpix will be fine too!"
Ethan declared firmly.
Since Vulpix is male, there's no need to worry. He wanted to make Vulpix the strongest and most handsome fox!
He was fired up!
"Alright, bring it on, my Charmander won't lose to a fox."
Seemingly inspired by Ethan's spirit, Hannah was also motivated.
Just kidding, no way her Charmander, a future dragon, could lose to a six-tailed fox!
Well, Hannah conveniently ignored the fact that Charmander was currently just a red-skinned lizard.
"Since both of you are so interested, let me provide the venue."
Seeing the enthusiasm of his customers, Alex was delighted.
Well, this would be the first Pokémon battle in this world!
A moment to commemorate!
Well, he'll have Diancie film it and post it online for promotion.
You're a genius!