The forest of Route 113 was calm again. The wind gently moved through the tall trees, and sunlight filtered through the leaves, illuminating the clearing where the Riolu family had gathered.
The injured Riolu that Elior had helped sat quietly on a flat rock while Elior carefully wrapped a bandage around its wounded leg.
"There," Elior said softly. "You'll be fine in a few days."
Riolu looked down at the bandage and then back at Elior. Its amber eyes were no longer filled with fear—they held gratitude and determination.
Nearby, the other Riolu watched cautiously. One of the older Riolu stepped forward, studying Elior and his Pokémon.
Infernyx stood tall but calm, flames flickering gently. Voltiger rested on a branch above them, sparks occasionally jumping between its whiskers. Lunashade stayed silent in the shadows, observing everything.
The elder Riolu gave a small nod toward Elior, almost as if thanking him.
Elior smiled slightly.
"You all fought bravely," he said. "Your family is strong."
The injured Riolu slowly stood up and tested its leg. It was still weak, but it could stand now.
Then something surprising happened.
The young Riolu walked toward Elior.
It stopped right in front of him and looked up. For a moment, the forest went completely silent.
Elior knelt down so he was at eye level.
"You want to come with me?" he asked gently.
Riolu looked back at its family.
The elder Riolu nodded again, as if giving permission.
The young Riolu turned back toward Elior and raised its paw, touching his hand.
The bond was clear.
Infernyx gave a proud roar. Voltiger crackled excitedly from the branch, and Lunashade's eyes glowed softly in the shadows.
Elior took a Pokéball from his belt and held it out.
"If you choose to travel with me, we'll grow stronger together," he said.
Riolu tapped the Pokéball willingly.
The Pokéball shook once…
Then twice…
And finally—
Click.
Elior exhaled slowly and smiled.
"Welcome to the team, Riolu."
The other Riolu cried out happily as if cheering for their sibling.
Elior clipped the Pokéball to his belt and looked toward the deeper forest of Route 113.
His team was growing stronger.
But somewhere far away, Team Umber was still moving their plans forward.
And Elior knew the next battles would be far more dangerous.
He stood up and adjusted his backpack.
"Let's go," he said.
Infernyx spread its wings.
Voltiger leapt down from the branch.
Lunashade slipped quietly into the shadows.
And now, with Riolu as the newest member of the team, Elior continued his journey through Route 113—one step closer to the destiny waiting ahead.
And the journey continues....