Ash, Clemont, and Bonnie raced through the bustling streets of Lumiose City, the vibrant sounds of the city fading into the pounding of their footsteps and the urgent beating of their hearts. In Ash's arms, Froakie lay limp, its small chest rising and falling with labored breaths. The battle with Team Rocket had been fierce, and though Pikachu had been their primary target, Froakie had thrown itself in harm’s way to protect its friend.

“Just a little further!” Clemont panted, adjusting his glasses as the towering spire of the Prism Tower came into view, signaling that Professor Sycamore’s lab was close.

They burst through the lab’s front doors, startling a few researchers, and Professor Sycamore looked up from his work, his eyes widening at the sight. “Clemont, Bonnie—what happened?”

“Froakie’s hurt!” Ash blurted out, the worry in his voice unmistakable. “It tried to protect Pikachu from Team Rocket, but it took a lot of damage.”

Professor Sycamore’s expression shifted to one of focused determination. “Quickly, bring it here.” He led them down a hallway lined with books and papers until they reached a small room that smelled faintly of antiseptic and herbs. Sophie, the professor’s assistant, was already prepping a healing station.

With gentle hands, Ash laid Froakie on the examination table. Sophie placed a transparent cover over it, and a soft, green light illuminated the frog Pokémon, signaling the start of the healing process.

“It’s going to be alright,” Sophie said with a reassuring smile. “Froakie will recover in no time.”

Professor Sycamore nodded, folding his arms as he observed the young Trainers. “This Froakie is quite special,” he began. “It’s one of the Pokémon we use to start new Trainers on their journeys, but this one... well, it’s different. Froakie has a strong will and doesn’t always listen to its Trainer. It’s been returned to us more than once.”