Harry walked along, Pikachu hopping in time beside him. He knew he should've more thoroughly considered the potential issues arising from allowing Pikachu free reign outside of his ball, but the little electric mouse didn't deserve to be cramped inside. Plus, the lightning bolt scar and lightning bolt tail were just too cute of a pair. Or, at least, Ginny had said so.
Hermione, however, urged him time and time again of the repercussions at stake in allowing any creature such freedoms, especially one that could cause enough damage to kill (once he leveled up, of course). And yet, here he was, full trust in Pikachu to not a) wander off or b) land either of them in jail.
Just then, Pikachu came to a halt. Perching erect on its hind legs, the critter snapped its head around in search for something Harry couldn't see. Harry's confusion soon ceased, however, as a Houndoom came rushing out of the surrounding woods. He nearly screamed as he dashed to scoop up Pikachu, preparing to get them both away from the wild creature as quickly as possible. As he ran, however, he noticed an American voice not too far behind him.
"Houndoom, come back!"
The barking stopped, and Harry dared to turn his head in the direction of where the Houndoom was. Or, should have been. Standing in its place was a man whose skin seemed to radiate in the sunlight.
The man ran a hand over his face. "I'm sorry, I'm usually so careful with it. Is yours okay?" he asked, motioning to Pikachu.
Harry set the pokemon down. "Yeah, just a little startled." He ran his hand through his hair and laughed nervously. "I would comment on your Houndoom being out of its ball irresponsibly, but clearly I'm not one to talk."
"Yeah," the man mumbled, glancing up at the sky. His eyes, in the sun's reflection, appeared a rich honey in color, contrasting greatly with Harry's bright green.
Without another word, the man turned and disappeared back into the forest, clutching Houndoom in his fist as he went. Harry, although befuddled, could think of no reason to follow him and instead decided to continue on his way.
Pikachu, however, was not yet done with this mystery man.