Chapter 336: Chapter 336
Celebi, torn between its choices, finally sought Dak for help.
"What? Let me take a look."
Following Celebi's gaze, Dak saw the two candidates. One was Otohime, someone he was very familiar with.
The other was a nine-year-old girl, Marianne.
While her name might not immediately ring a bell, in the original One Piece timeline, she would join the Baroque Works at 16 as Miss Goldenweek, Mr. 3's partner. Marianne was an exceptional young girl.
Unlike many in the One Piece world, Marianne had no Devil Fruit powers. Her ability to manipulate others through the colors on her palette was purely psychological—an advanced form of hypnosis or suggestion akin to a "hypnotist."
Even on Pokémon Island, where most extraordinary abilities were restricted, Marianne's skill could still function.
Her unique capability was potent enough to warrant classification alongside powers like Aura or Psychic Energy.
However, this ability wasn't universally effective. Simpler minds were more susceptible—perfect examples being individuals like a certain rubber pirate.
"Do you think Marianne would get along with you better?" Dak asked, narrowing his eyes thoughtfully.
Celebi nodded firmly, convinced that its fondness for Marianne indicated she was the right choice.
"Well then, let's choose Otohime as the World Tree's Protector," Dak concluded with a smile, gently stroking Celebi's chin. "As for Marianne, just because she isn't the protector doesn't mean you can't spend time with her."
Celebi blinked, startled by the suggestion.
"You can make friends with her," Dak encouraged. "Otohime is a more suitable candidate for the role, but that doesn't mean Marianne isn't important. She might just be your best friend."
Celebi mulled it over before nodding hesitantly.
Feeling emboldened by Dak's encouragement, Celebi floated away to approach Otohime.
Dak watched the timid Pokémon leave, his expression tinged with worry.
While Mew was bold and sociable—a bundle of cheerful energy—Celebi was shy, cautious, and reserved. Dak wasn't sure Celebi had the confidence to make friends easily.
Moreover, future generations of World Tree Protectors would rely on Celebi for guidance and selection. It needed to overcome its hesitancy.
"I believe in you, Celebi," Dak murmured.
Celebi felt Dak's encouragement through its psychic senses. It clenched its tiny fists, steeling itself as it floated toward Otohime.
At that moment, Otohime and Neptune were glued to the stage, watching their daughter Shirahoshi perform.
The young mermaid stood confidently with her Milotic, dazzling the audience.
"Milotic, use Water Pulse!"
Shirahoshi's sweet, determined voice commanded her Pokémon partner.
Milotic gracefully conjured a spinning sphere of water, its elegant movements mesmerizing the crowd.
"Now, release it at your feet!"
Shirahoshi's precise timing and affinity for water guided Milotic perfectly. The water pulse hit the ground, spreading outward in gentle waves that seemed poised to cascade into the audience.
"Use Ice Wind!" Shirahoshi called out.
Milotic unleashed a frosty breath, freezing the water mid-wave. The ice shimmered under the stage lights, reflecting a rainbow of colors.
Standing amidst the frozen waves, Milotic shone like a queen of the ocean.
"Wow!"
"So beautiful!"
"She's got real talent as a coordination trainer!"
While the audience was thrilled, the judges approached the performance with a critical eye.
"An excellent display, but I can only give 9.5 points," Stella commented, holding up her scorecard.
"I agree—9 points," Perona added. "Milotic's charm was showcased wonderfully, but Shirahoshi's lack of personal involvement in the performance detracted from the coordination aspect."
The Pokémon Center director, however, gave a perfect score, opting for leniency given Shirahoshi's young age and potential.
"Shirahoshi's final score is 28.5 points! The highest score so far!" Tezolo announced enthusiastically.
In the audience, Otohime cheered for her daughter, excitedly throwing her arms in the air.
Smack!
Startled, Otohime felt her fist collide with something soft. She glanced around but saw nothing.
A moment later, she felt a weight on her lap.
"Bi…"
Celebi's soft whimper reached her ears.
"Oh my, isn't this the little one from earlier? The Forest God?" Otohime exclaimed, recognizing Celebi from Dak's earlier performance.
Reaching out gently, she cradled the tiny Pokémon in her hands, her natural warmth immediately putting Celebi at ease.
"Did I hurt you? I'm so sorry," she said, blowing softly on Celebi's reddened face.
"Bi," Celebi responded, its earlier distress melting away under Otohime's tender care.
Looking into her eyes, Celebi felt an unfamiliar yet comforting sensation—a feeling it could only describe as "motherly."
"Does it still hurt?" Otohime asked softly, lifting Celebi to inspect it like a fragile doll.
Celebi shook its head and hugged her arm, signaling its decision.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Otohime asked, her observation skills keen enough to discern Celebi's intent.
Celebi nodded firmly.
"Alright, but let me tell my family first," Otohime said with a gentle smile.
Unlike Guy's carefree departure, Otohime needed to ensure her family was informed.
(End of Chapter)
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