"Hey Riolu, where are we going?" Alex asked curiously as they walked along a narrow trail through the dense forest. The sun filtered softly through the trees, casting golden light on the forest floor.
"Rio, Riolu," replied Riolu, using a few hand signs and a determined expression. Although he couldn't speak like humans, Alex had spent some time with him so he could understand his intentions—they were heading to Riolu's home.
"So, we're going to your place?" Alex said, matching Riolu's pace. "Alright, let's see where you live, Riolu."
After several minutes of walking and enjoying the sounds of nature, they arrived at a large cave hidden behind thick vines and rocks. Alex stepped inside and was surprised by the size and depth of the place.
"Wow, is this where you live?" he asked in awe. Riolu nodded proudly, signaling that this was his shelter—and had been for a long time. The cave was spacious, cool, and clearly well-protected.
"This place isn't bad at all," Alex said, looking around. "But Riolu, do you know where we can find water and food?"
Riolu glanced at him and gave a short nod. He gestured for Alex to follow, and together they made their way down a rocky path. After some time, they reached a stunning lake surrounded by thick vegetation. The water sparkled under the light, but there was an eerie feeling in the air.
"Hey Riolu… there are wild Pokémon around here, right?" Alex asked, looking around cautiously. Riolu nodded. "Riolu, Riolu," he whispered, pointing to shadows moving beneath the surface of the water.
"I see," Alex said. "Let's not get too close."
"Do you know where we can find some berries? Any kind will do," Alex asked. Riolu's eyes lit up, and he led Alex deeper into the forest where several berry bushes were growing. Alex picked a few and turned to Riolu.
"Riolu, come here." Riolu trotted over. "I've read that Pokémon heal by eating Oran Berries. Here, eat this one to help you recover."
Riolu took the berry gratefully and began eating. Almost instantly, some of his fatigue seemed to fade.
"Alright," Alex said, "Let's head back to the cave."
As they walked back, Alex thought more about their bond. When they arrived, he turned to Riolu and said, "Hey Riolu, if we're going to battle together, I'd like to know your moves. Could you show me what you've got?"
Riolu nodded with a confident grin and began demonstrating his attacks: Metal Claw, Force Palm, Bulk Up, Quick Attack, and Endure.
"Wow, you've got a great moveset," Alex said, impressed. "You're strong, Riolu. But I think we can become even stronger—together."
He offered his hand. "Let's train. Let's grow stronger, not just to fight, but to protect us and become the strongest Pokemon and trainer in the world"
Riolu placed his paw in Alex's hand and nodded eagerly, his eyes full of determination.
"Let's head to a clear area of the forest where we can train without interruptions," Alex said with a smile. Riolu nodded and began guiding him through the woods, eventually leading him to a quiet, open space free of wild Pokémon.
"Alright, Riolu, let's begin," Alex said, scanning the surroundings. "I want you to focus on your Metal Claw. See those rocks over there? Try to smash them with a single strike. If you want to survive out here, you'll need to defeat enemies in just one hit. You've seen how dangerous this place can be—brutal, even. That's why you must train to make every attack count."
Riolu nodded firmly and stepped up to the rocks. He focused his energy and began using Metal Claw, attempting to shatter each stone with a single, precise blow. Strike after strike, he trained with intensity and determination.
About twenty minutes later, Alex called out, "That's enough for now, Riolu. You're doing well—but I want to push you a bit further."
Riolu turned, breathing heavily but attentive.
"This time, I want you to activate Metal Claw on both paws," Alex explained. "Using dual Metal Claws will help you channel your Steel-type energy more efficiently. It will also give you an edge in combat, allowing you to strike faster and with more power."
Riolu looked down at his paws, then back at the rocks. With a focused breath, he began to concentrate—energy glowing faintly on each hand.
"Good," Alex said, stepping back to give him room. "Let's keep going. You're getting stronger, Riolu. Let's push past your limits."
While they were training, Alex suddenly felt uneasy—like something wasn't right. A chill ran down his spine, and his instincts kicked in.
"Hey Riolu," he said cautiously, "do you feel that?"
Riolu stopped his training and turned around. Although nothing was immediately visible, he too sensed it—they were being watched. Focusing his aura, Riolu scanned the area. His eyes narrowed. The enemy was close—too close.
Without warning, a Murkrow darted out of the shadows and struck Riolu in the chest with a sharp Peck.
"Riolu, concentrate!" Alex shouted.
Riolu shut his eyes, honing his aura to its fullest potential. He could now sense the Murkrow's every movement, tracking it precisely even without sight. As the Murkrow prepared for another attack, swooping in from above—
"Now, Riolu! Use Metal Claw!" Alex called out.
Riolu's eyes snapped open. With a burst of power, he launched himself forward, claws glowing with steely energy. In one swift, powerful strike, he brought the Murkrow down—a clean, deadly blow. Blood splattered across Riolu's fur as the bird collapsed, unmoving.
Alex winced at the sight. "Ugh… Riolu, that was intense. But you really need a bath after this."