"You know what, Orion?" Barbara says, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I think I will try the lottery. Maybe a more controlled environment is a better way to start."
Orion beams at her, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Excellent choice, Barbara!" he exclaims. "I have a feeling you'll have much better luck this time around."
With a flourish, Orion retrieves the lottery tablet from behind the counter and presents it to Barbara. "Just tap the screen, and the lottery sequence will begin," he instructs. "Five chances to get a Pokémon that will be your perfect partner. Are you ready?"
Barbara takes a deep breath, steeling her nerves. She knows that this could be a turning point, a chance to learn more about these strange creatures and perhaps even find a new ally in her fight against crime. She nods, her determination shining through. "Alright, let's do this."
As Barbara prepares herself, she remembers the "Bat-Credit Card" tucked safely away in her utility belt. Bruce was very insistent that I take it, she thinks. Said that it was important for the mission, and that I shouldn't hesitate to use it if necessary. Well, I guess this qualifies as necessary.
She reaches into her belt and retrieves the card, a sleek, black piece of technology with the Bat-Symbol emblazoned on its surface. It's a testament to the Wayne family's wealth, a symbol of unlimited resources at her disposal as long as it is for a case. Barbara feels a surge of gratitude for Bruce's unwavering support.
Taking the tablet in her hand, Barbara focuses on the screen, her mind clear and focused. She taps the screen with her finger, initiating the lottery sequence.
The tablet comes to life, displaying a whirlwind of colors, images, and symbols that swirl and dance across the screen. Silhouettes of various Pokémon flash by, each one more intriguing than the last. Barbara watches intently, her anticipation building with each passing moment.
Suddenly, the chaos on the screen begins to coalesce, the swirling images slowing down and becoming more defined. The colors fade, and the silhouettes sharpen, until finally, the screen settles on a single image: the distinct silhouette of a small, frog-like creature.
Barbara squints at the screen, trying to make out the details of the Pokémon. It's definitely a frog, but unlike any frog she's ever seen before. What is this thing? she wonders, her curiosity piqued.
Orion gasps, his eyes wide with excitement. "Oh my gosh, Barbara!" he exclaims. "You are incredibly lucky!"
Barbara looks at him, puzzled. "What is it?" she asks. "What did I get?"
"You got Froakie!" Orion replies, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "One of the three starter Pokémon from the Kalos region!"
Barbara's brow furrows in confusion. "Starter Pokémon?" she asks, unfamiliar with the term. "What does that mean?"
"Starter Pokémon are specially chosen Pokémon given to new trainers at the start of their journey," Orion explains, his excitement barely contained. "They're specially bred for beginner trainers and are much easier to raise!"
He goes on to elaborate that in many regions, young trainers embarking on their Pokémon journey are given the choice of one of three starter Pokémon, each representing a different elemental type: Grass, Fire, or Water. Froakie, being a Water-type, is one of the most popular choices.
Barbara listens intently, absorbing the information. "So, this Froakie is kind of a big deal?" she asks, wanting to make sure she understands the significance of her draw.
"A very big deal," Orion confirms with a nod. "It's a fantastic partner and has the potential to become incredibly strong. You are very lucky, Barbara."
"Well, I guess I should meet this Froakie, then," Barbara says, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Can I see it in person?"
"Of course, of course!" Orion says, his enthusiasm bubbling over. "Just give me a moment, and I'll go retrieve it for you."
With that, Orion disappears into the back of the store, leaving Barbara alone with Pikachu and Latias. Pikachu hops off Orion's shoulder and gives Barbara an inquisitive look, tilting his head slightly as if trying to assess her. Latias smiles warmly, her eyes filled with genuine excitement for Barbara.
A few minutes later, Orion returns, carefully carrying a small, clear terrarium. Inside, nestled among soft green moss and smooth river stones, is Froakie.
Barbara's eyes widen as she takes in Froakie's appearance. It's a small, blue frog-like Pokémon with large, expressive eyes and a calm, observant expression. A white, bubble-like cloak surrounds its neck, giving it a distinctive and almost elegant look.
He is kinda cute, Barbara admits to herself.
"This is Froakie," Orion says, gently placing the terrarium on the counter. "Froakie, this is Barbara."
Froakie looks up at Barbara, its eyes filled with curiosity. It hops forward, pressing its face against the glass of the terrarium as if trying to get a closer look.
Barbara reaches out a hand and gently pets the top of Froakie's head through the glass. Froakie seems to like it, leaning into her touch and closing its eyes contentedly.
"He seems friendly," Barbara observes, impressed by Froakie's gentle nature. "I think I like him."
"I knew you would," Orion says with a grin. "Froakie is a very special Pokémon."
"Alright, I'm sold," Barbara says, her decision made. "How much is he?"
Orion's smile widens. "Well, normally, a starter Pokémon like Froakie would cost around 1,000,000 dollars," he says. "But since the ongoing 30% discount for the store's opening is still active, which brings the total down to 700,000 dollars."
Barbara doesn't even flinch at the price. She simply pulls out the Bat-Credit Card and hands it to Orion. "Here you go," she says, her voice calm and steady. "Just swipe it, and we're good to go."
Orion's jaw drops as he takes the card. He glances at the Bat-Symbol, then back at Barbara, his eyes wide with awe.
Is this... is this what I think it is?
Orion looks at the card in a daze. He decides to ignore it and wordlessly swipes the Bat-Credit Card through the terminal. The transaction goes through instantly, confirming Barbara's purchase.
"Congratulations, Barbara!" Orion exclaims, handing back the card. "You are officially the proud owner of Froakie!"
Barbara takes the card, a sense of satisfaction washing over her. She has a new partner, a new ally, and a new responsibility. She's determined to do everything she can to be the best trainer she can be for Froakie.
"Now that I'm a responsible trainer," Barbara says, "I'm going to need some gear. What else do I need?"
Orion, ever the helpful salesman, launches into a detailed explanation of essential trainer equipment. He recommends a Pokédex for recording information about Pokémon, a guidebook for learning about training techniques, Poké Blocks for providing Froakie with nutritious snacks, and Moomoo Milk for keeping it healthy and strong.
Barbara listens attentively, nodding along as Orion speaks. She wants to be prepared for anything, and she trusts Orion's expertise. "Alright, I'll take it all," she says, pulling out the Bat-Credit Card once again. "Just add it to the bill."
With a few more swipes of the card, Barbara is fully equipped for her new Pokémon journey. She gathers her purchases, a sense of excitement bubbling inside her.
"Alright, let's see what this Pokédex can do," Barbara says, pulling the device out of its box. She points it at Froakie, and the Pokédex comes to life, its screen displaying a wealth of information about the Pokémon.
"Pokédex Entry: Froakie Initiating scan… Aquatic amphibian signature detected.
Species: Froakie — The Bubble Frog Pokémon**
Type: Water
Height: 0.3 m
Weight: 7.0 kg
Sex: Male
Ability: Torrent
Habitat: Freshwater regions, shaded forest ponds, and wet grasslands.
Known Moves: - Growl - Pound - Water Gun
"Froakie is a nimble and cautious Pokémon that produces a protective foam from its neck and back. This foam forms lightweight bubbles that cushion impacts and deflect minor attacks. The bubbles are elastic, adhesive, and reform quickly when damaged — an evolutionary defense against predators.
Froakie's movements are exceptionally light and silent. It can leap several times its own height with ease, using its powerful hind legs to travel across tree branches or rooftops without making a sound. When threatened, Froakie launches compressed bubbles or blinds opponents with bursting foam before escaping.
Though it may appear laid-back or inattentive, Froakie is constantly observing its surroundings with sharp awareness. Trainers often underestimate its intelligence; however, once bonded, Froakie shows unwavering loyalty and excels in tactical, hit-and-run combat."
Pokédex Note:
"Light on its feet and brimming with awareness, Froakie survives not by strength, but by foresight and finesse. A careless foe will never see the second strike coming."
Barbara reads through the information, her eyes widening with fascination. She learns about Froakie's unique abilities, its preferred habitat, and its fighting style. The Pokédex also lists Froakie's known moves: Growl, Pound, and Water Gun.
"Wow, this is incredible," Barbara says, impressed by the depth of information contained within the Pokédex. "It's like a complete encyclopedia of Pokémon knowledge."
"It is indeed," Orion says with a nod. "The Pokédex is an invaluable tool for any trainer. It will help you learn everything you need to know about Froakie and all the other Pokémon you encounter on your journey."
"Speaking of which," Orion says, reaching behind the counter once again. "There's one more thing you'll need."
He produces a small, red and white ball with a button on the front. "This is a Premier Ball," he explains. "It's a special type of Poké Ball designed to commemorate your first catch. Just press the button, and it will expand. Then, toss it at Froakie, and it will be captured inside."
Barbara takes the Premier Ball, feeling a surge of excitement. This is it, the moment she officially becomes Froakie's trainer.
She takes a deep breath, focuses her energy, and presses the button on the Premier Ball. The ball expands to its full size, ready to capture its target.
With a flick of her wrist, Barbara tosses the Premier Ball at Froakie. The ball soars through the air, striking Froakie squarely on the head.
With a flash of red light, Froakie is enveloped in energy and sucked into the Premier Ball. The ball falls to the ground, shaking once, twice, three times before finally clicking shut.
Barbara holds her breath, waiting to see if the capture was successful. A moment later, the Premier Ball glows brightly, signaling that Froakie is now safely inside.
Orion claps his hands together, his face beaming with pride. "Congratulations, Barbara!" he says. "You are now officially a Pokémon trainer! I know you will both do great things together!"
Barbara smiles, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over her. She looks down at the Premier Ball in her hand, imagining Froakie safely inside.
Well, this is going to be interesting, she thinks.
Before leaving, Barbara jots down Orion's number on a piece of paper, and gives him her number. She promises to keep in touch, and she's sure to be back.
With a final wave to Orion, Latias, and Pikachu, Barbara steps out of Pokémon Home, ready to embark on her new adventure with Froakie by her side.
***
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Advance chapters in P@T0n Najicablitz.