The screen flickers to life, displaying a series of swirling shadows and cryptic symbols. The shadows dance and twist, their forms shifting and changing with each passing moment. The air crackles with anticipation as the lottery sequence builds to its climax.
Finally, the shadows begin to coalesce, slowly forming a distinct silhouette. The silhouette solidifies, revealing the unmistakable form of a Pokémon. The screen freezes, displaying the chosen Pokémon for all to see.
Its outline is of a sleek, quadrupedal Pokémon with a bone-like structure adorning its body.
"Ooh, what's that one?" Harley asks, her curiosity piqued. "It looks kinda spooky… I like it!"
Orion smiles knowingly, recognizing the Pokémon immediately. "That, my dear Harley, is Houndour, a Dark/Fire-type Pokémon from the Johto region. A real gem, I must say. They're known for being super loyal."
Harley's eyes widen with excitement. "Houndour, huh?" she says, her voice laced with intrigue. "Tell me more!"
"They're pack hunters by nature," Orion starts, launching into a detailed explanation. "Intelligent and fiercely loyal, especially to those they consider their leader. They're Dark and Fire-type, which means they have a potent combination of moves at their disposal. Bite, Fire Fang, Flamethrower… they are quite versatile."
He pauses for effect, a glint in his eye. "And if you're lucky enough to raise it right, Houndour evolves into Houndoom. Now that's a Pokémon to be reckoned with. Menacing in appearance, with incredible power. A truly formidable partner."
"But don't just take my word for it," he says, concluding his spiel. "Why don't you meet Houndour for yourself?"
Harley's eyes light up. "Can I? Can I?" she asks, practically bouncing with excitement. "Oh, please, please, please!"
Orion chuckles, amused by her enthusiasm. "Of course," he says. "Just give me a moment to retrieve him."
He turns and heads towards the back of the store, leaving Harley and Ivy to wait in anticipation. Moments later, he returns, leading a small, black, dog-like Pokémon on a leash.
It's Houndour, and it's even more impressive in person. Its fur is as black as night, with striking orange markings around its muzzle and underbelly. A bone-like structure covers parts of its body, giving it a sleek, armored appearance. A skull-like ridge adorns its head, and its sharp fangs are bared in a menacing grin. Its eyes gleam with cunning intelligence, hinting at the power that lies within.
Harley is instantly smitten. "Aww, it's so cute!" she exclaims, unable to contain her excitement as she rushes forward, practically floating on air, to greet the Pokémon that has captured her heart.
She crouches down, her vibrant hair spilling like a waterfall around her shoulders, and extends a hand in a welcoming gesture, allowing Houndour the chance to sniff her. The small creature hesitates just for a moment, its keen eyes studying her intently, as if gauging her intentions. Then, with a soft bark that melts Harley's heart, it leans in and nuzzles her hand affectionately, the warmth of its breath sending a flutter through her chest.
"Oh, you sweet little thing!" Harley squeals with delight, and before anyone can say a word, she wraps her arms around Houndour, pulling the Pokémon into a tight hug that reeks of adoration. "I love you already!" she exclaims, peppering the Pokémon's face with a barrage of kisses, each one accompanied by a giggle of pure joy.
Houndour seems to revel in her affection, wagging its tail energetically, small puffs of smoke billowing from its nostrils as it becomes absolutely animated in response to Harley's exuberance. Its tongue darts out to lick her face in playful retaliation, a gesture of trust and burgeoning friendship. In that moment, with laughter ringing like music in the air, a bond begins to form between them, an unspoken connection that transcends words or barriers.
At last, Harley reluctantly releases Houndour from her embrace, her eyes shining like stars in the night sky, filled with uncontainable joy. "So, how much for this little cutie?" she asks, turning her head over her shoulder to face Orion, who has been observing the scene with a knowing smile.
Orion's lips curl into a gentle grin, both delighted and amused, fully aware that Harley's affections would lead her to make a hasty decision. "The price for this exceptional Houndour is five hundred thousand dollars, but currently the store is running a discount, so it will be three hundred fifty thousand," he states, his voice smooth and professional, presenting the deal with the air of someone who knows he has something invaluable to offer.
Harley's eyes widen comically at the price, but she hardly hesitates, her mischievous grin illuminating her cheerful demeanor. "Five hundred grand, huh?" she muses, her mind undoubtedly racing with plans. "No problem! I'll be right back!"
She turns and dashes out, leaving Ivy and Orion surprised by her whimsical decision. Her actions hint at excitement and chaos.
Moments later, Harley returns with a duffel bag filled with cash. "Here you go! Three hundred fifty thousand big ones! All yours!" she exclaims, dumping the bag at Orion's feet.
Orion stares, a mix of shock and amusement on his face. He knows the money was stolen from a bank robbery, but a flame of pragmatism burns in his chest, supplanting any moral outrage. He's a businessman, and a deal is a deal.
He counts the money, his fingers navigating the stacks with practiced speed. Once he confirms the amount, he looks at Harley, smiling, acknowledging her wildness.
"Congratulations, Harley Quinn," he says, infused with a mixture of genuine warmth and professional enterprise. "You are now officially Houndour's trainer."
Harley's exuberant whoop of pure joy fills the air, ringing out like a celebratory bell in the bustling atmosphere of the store. She can't help herself
Now it's Ivy's turn, and a smile graces her lips as she steps up to the tablet. The opportunity to potentially partner with a plant-like Pokémon thrills her. The lottery screen initiates a dazzling spectacle of colors and symbols. Ivy's anticipation increases.
Please be a Grass-type, she thinks. Anything green and leafy.
The images swirl and morph. Finally, the screen stills, revealing the silhouette of the chosen Pokémon.
***
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Advance chapters in P@T0n Najicablitz.