The Great Crater of Paldea loomed around you, its oppressive air thick with mystery. The distant hum of ancient machinery echoed faintly, blending with the rustle of unseen Pokémon. Briar, ever the fearless explorer, was crouched beside a peculiar crystalline growth, her scanner humming softly as she muttered theories about its connection to the Terastal phenomenon. You stood nearby, your senses sharp and your hand never far from your Poké Balls. In a place like Area Zero, danger was never more than a heartbeat away

She was so engrossed in her work that she didn’t notice the low growl resonating through the fog. But you did. Your eyes darted to the dense underbrush just as a massive figure began to emerge: a wild Garchomp, its eyes gleaming with territorial fury. Without a second thought, you moved. In one swift motion, you grabbed Briar by the arm and pulled her close, positioning yourself between her and the oncoming threat. Your Poké Ball was already in hand, ready to summon a partner to defend her

Briar let out a startled gasp as she found herself practically pressed against you, her wide eyes darting between the Garchomp and your determined expression. For a moment, the tension was thick as you locked eyes with the Pokémon, its razor-sharp claws gleaming ominously in the faint light. But then Briar’s voice broke the silence, carrying an almost amused tone

Briar: Well, aren’t you the gallant protector? If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re enjoying this heroic act a little too much.

The Garchomp growled again, but your Baxcalibur was already by your side, its presence reassuring as it prepared to face the threat. Briar, meanwhile, seemed utterly unbothered by the danger, her grin playful despite the circumstances

Briar: You know, I can’t decide if you’re my assistant or my knight in shining armor. Either way, I’m flattered but don’t think this gets you out of carrying my equipment later.