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Through Lian's guidance, Kalia swiftly located Togetic and initiated their first encounter.
Surprisingly, it went remarkably smoothly. As a Fairy-type Pokemon, Togetic possessed a unique ability to sense both benevolence and malevolence.
Naturally, Kalia radiated goodwill towards Togetic, which was readily perceived by the Pokemon.
This positive impression significantly influenced subsequent interactions, ensuring they proceeded effortlessly.
However, for others besides Kalia, the experience proved challenging right from the start, encountering considerable obstacles early on.
Kalia's swift familiarity with Togetic primarily stemmed from Lian's foresight; he had already established a rapport with Togetic beforehand. Combined with Togetic's inherent ability to discern intentions, this facilitated a smooth introduction.
Other Pokemon lacked this capability, instinctively fleeing upon sensing Trainers approaching, especially if accompanied by powerful Pokemon.
These wild Pokemon naturally kept their distance, unwilling to approach and denying any chance for Trainers to engage closely. Even when some trainers managed to get near, the Pokemon quickly darted away.
"Don't run! I mean you no harm!"
Watching the Pokemon scatter randomly, Trainers felt helpless and reluctant to use their own Pokemon's moves for fear of accidentally harming them, which would be counterproductive.
Some Trainers resorted to forceful tactics, trapping Pokemon with binding-type moves. However, this resulted in intense hostility from the captured Pokemon. They cried out, summoning their companions, often disrupting other Trainers' efforts as well.
"What are you doing? I was almost successful!" One Trainer had nearly befriended a Pokemon, only for it to flee due to these aggressive actions, leading to a torrent of angry curses.
Other Trainers also glared disapprovingly at him. Without Poké Balls, employing such coercive methods might work on powerful Pokemon willing to submit, but most here were relatively weak yet highly cohesive.
When attacked, they tended to band together against common threats. Clearly, attempting capture through direct combat without Poké Balls was impractical and likely to anger the local Pokemon.
As Kalia mentioned, using gentle approaches to interact with Pokemon significantly increased chances of successful capture when lacking Poké Balls.
This was also the primary method used during ancient times to capture Pokemon—establishing friendship through charm and goodwill.
Many who attempted to forcefully capture Pokemon back then met unfortunate ends. Due to low intimacy with their Pokemon, these creatures often unexpectedly turned against them during battles, leading to tragic outcomes for their Trainers.
Compared to other Trainers' struggles, Kalia had already overcome the toughest hurdle. Now, she simply needed to gradually interact and gain acceptance until Togetic willingly chose to follow her.
With Lian's assistance, Kalia's process of capturing Togetic became significantly smoother and more efficient.
Time passed quickly; it was getting late, nearing dusk, and everyone started feeling hungry.
In reality, many were already famished since Lian had consumed most of the food prepared for the assessment earlier, leaving insufficient leftovers for others.
Finding food in the wilderness is not challenging for Trainers, as most have experienced solo travels, spending considerable time outdoors and gaining ample experience in such situations.
For Kalia, this task was equally straightforward. The wilderness offers abundant natural resources, though Kalia personally preferred gathering wild fruits over hunting Pokemon.
While many people consume Pokemon meat, as a dedicated Pokemon Trainer, Kalia would never actively hunt for such purposes. Even Farfetch'd, renowned for its delectable taste, is something she has never tried.
"Togetic, here you go."
As soon as Kalia found some berries, she promptly offered them to Togetic. Sharing food with Pokemon is a crucial step in building trust and fostering emotional bonds, bringing her closer to capturing it.
Togetic extended its tiny hands, gently holding the berry and taking a small bite. The fruit was incredibly sweet and soft, reminiscent of a persimmon.
"Pok...Biu!"
Togetic nibbled happily on the berry, emitting joyful sounds that lifted Kalia's spirits as well.
Lian wasn't feeling hungry; he had eaten too much earlier and ended up lying bored under a tree, even dozing off at one point. From what he observed, passing the second round of the assessment seemed assured.
He overheard Mandia's explanation earlier: after completing the first phase, Kalia should have no trouble with the second stage either. Additionally, Lian could utilize the system's capabilities to instantly teach moves to Pokemon if needed.
Once Togetic is captured, the system should recognize it, allowing him to access its battle data by engaging in a simple skirmish.
***
The next day.
"Togetic, would you like to join me?"
Feeling confident now, Kalia spoke earnestly to Togetic with genuine sincerity in her eyes.
Although their interaction was brief, Kalia had genuinely connected with Togetic, conveying her heartfelt kindness which resonated deeply with it.
"To-ge-tic!"
Togetic joyfully responded without any hesitation, accepting her offer. At that moment, a peculiar energy flowed from Togetic towards Kalia.
Simultaneously, she noticed a glowing feather appearing in her hand, remarkably light; one might not even feel its presence without careful attention.
"Is this... Happiness Powder?"
Kalia had heard about some unique abilities of Togetic. As the Pokemon symbolizing happiness, it is rumored to delight in bringing joy to others. After confirming someone's kind heart, it may shed a luminous feather, evoking a profound sense of well-being.
As Kalia held the feather known as Happiness Powder, a wave of contentment washed over her. The sensation was both intriguing and incredibly soothing.
The Happiness Powder had no practical use; its sole effect was to evoke feelings of joy and contentment.
After a brief moment,
Kalia released the Happiness Powder with a radiant smile on her face, whispering softly, "Thank you, Togetic."
She knew at that instant, she had successfully captured Togetic, completing the first phase of the challenge. All that remained now is for the inspector's confirmation.
Lian's eyes narrowed with satisfaction. Not bad, achieving the first phase so swiftly by capturing Togetic.
He felt confident that passing this mid-level assessment should be almost guaranteed. If Kalia couldn't succeed, it would be even more challenging for others.
"Inspector, I've completed the capture." Without wasting any time, Kalia promptly announced, ready for the first phase inspection.
"Oh?"
The nearest inspector looked surprised, caught off guard.
It hadn't even been a full day yet? Too swift!
Other Trainers were also drawn by Kalia's announcement, feeling astonished.
Some of them hadn't even started, yet Kalia had already finished.
The disparity seemed immense.