Once home, Alice closed all windows, shut all blinds and locked the door. She didn't want anyone to interrupt this somewhat sacred ceremony. She didn't want to hear the people's chatter about yet another Island Challenge contestant.
After moving all living room furniture to the walls - just in case the Pokémon was a big one - Alice took the Ultra Ball from her bag.
"Let's see who you are," she muttered, performing the well-known task of throwing the ball. It opened with a quiet click.
"Mrow?"
The Vulpix looked to be utterly confused by the unknown surroundings. It bolted for the dinner table and stayed there.
"Oh. What happened to you that you're so scared?"
Alice remebered how her grandmother had treated Pokémon the police had taken from their trainers. Those poor things had been mistreated, traumatized by overly ambitious kids looking to win the Island Challenge, only to be stopped midway for ignoring their team's cries.
The Vulpix was one not native to Alola, it had reddish brown fur and emitted warmth. Which was abundant in Alolan summer.
"Well," Alice said, "Stay there, then." She didn't mean to sound disappointed, but she had hoped to receive a welcoming, enthusiastic Pokémon, not a scaredy-cat. Can't be helped, she thought, and went to the kitchen.
"In case you're hungry, food's with the cold-hearted bitch in the kitchen," she said over her shoulder, frowning at the words her ex now used to describe her. It wasn't her fault. She was sick of being toyed with, sick toying around, and that had been a thorn in his side. Stupid dick.
The bowl, filled with freshly prepared meat and dry Pokémon food, eventually lured the Vulpix to the kitchen. It levitated the bowl to the door and chomped down on its dinner.
"At least you're eating. That makes for a good start."
"Grrrr," said the little fox before disappearing back into the living room.
"Toilet's in the back."
No answer.