Chapter 119: Sprigatito's Decision
The next day, a medium-sized destroyer appeared on the horizon. It was a warship from the Paldea region, jointly built by Orange Academy and the Paldea Alliance. They had come chasing the egg thieves.
It turned out the thieves hadn't stolen from the Pokémon League, but from Orange Academy itself—an ancient and powerful institution that was even more formidable than the newly established Paldea Alliance.
On the destroyer, Tom and Corphish recounted their story to the captain, while Ryu sat in a corner, surrounded by a dozen or so human researchers observing and taking notes.
"Our little Sprigatito is so cute~"
"This Grovyle is also remarkable. Its leaves are an eerily vibrant green, and its size is simply from the Monster Era."
"We must visit the person who raised him. Perhaps we can recruit them as a teacher at our Academy."
The chattering researchers made Sprigatito puff up her fur and hiss, trying to protect her "mother."
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen, please calm down," a man in a suit said as he walked over. He was slightly overweight with a Mediterranean haircut. "Hello, Grovyle, Sprigatito. My name is Clavell, the director of Orange Academy."
Ryu held Sprigatito and stared at him, a fierce aura emanating from his sharp gaze. The thought that this man might take Sprigatito away put him on edge.
"I've seen this kind of aura on other Pokémon," Director Clavell noted, stroking his small mustache. "Without exception, they were all strong individuals who ruled a territory. It seems you've had some unusual experiences."
He sat cross-legged on the deck. "I understand. Are you worried that I will take Sprigatito back? I did have that thought, but the Orange Academy motto clearly states: As a trainer, you must respect a Pokémon's own choice!"
Hearing this, Ryu looked down at the little cat in his arms. This was the perfect solution to his indecision. He would let Sprigatito choose her own fate.
"Sprigatito, are you willing to leave me?" he asked.
"Meow!" she shook her head without hesitation, hugging his arm tightly to express her decision.
Seeing this, Ryu grinned.
"It seems that Sprigatito has made her choice, so I won't bother you any further," Director Clavell said with a smile. He got up and left without delay.
The destroyer was much faster than Tom's old speedboat. By the afternoon, they had already reached the coastal waters of the Johto region.
"Hey~ Grovyle and Sprigatito, come quickly, it's time to get off the ship," Tom called out.
The destroyer wouldn't be stopping. They were given a small sculling boat to reach the shore.
"Wait a moment!" Director Clavell came over, holding a small green box. "This contains some things Sprigatito might need. Consider it a blessing for a smooth journey."
He then patted his chest. "If you ever encounter difficulties, you are always welcome at Orange Academy. I think both the teachers and students would warmly welcome your arrival, Grovyle."
"Thank you," Ryu said, bowing while holding Sprigatito.
"Meow," the little cat mimicked, though her eyes remained fixed on the green box.
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