Name: Riolu
Type: Fighting
Ability: Prankster (Hidden Ability)
Level: 20
Potential: Elite
Yes, the blue and black Pokémon standing in front of Eddie was none other than Riolu, the Fighting-type Pokémon from the Sinnoh region.
Riolu was small in size, with a blue body, black legs, and a black lower torso. It resembled a puppy but stood and walked on its toes. Its bright red eyes and the black markings on its face gave it the appearance of a mask.
Even before evolving into Lucario, Riolu had an impressive and striking look. Once it evolved, it would gain the Steel type and become even more formidable, resembling a martial artist with the ability to manipulate aura. Its strength was undeniable.
"Besides, this Riolu's ability is actually a hidden ability—Prankster. Once it evolves, it will change to Justified, which is far stronger than Prankster," Eddie noted.
Justified: When hit by a Dark-type move, the Pokémon's Attack increases by one stage. If it continues to be struck by Dark-type attacks, the effect activates repeatedly, making it a nightmare for Dark-type Pokémon.
"In other words, if Lucario is attacked by Dark-type moves, each hit will raise its Attack power, making it a serious threat against Dark-types."
Although Eddie was surprised by Riolu's sudden appearance, its potential and ability made it a must-have. He was determined to capture and train it as a core member of his team.
"Are you the one who captured the Machop family in this area?"
Just as Eddie was about to command Grovyle and Riolu to battle, a sharp voice suddenly echoed in his mind.
Eddie's pupils shrank upon hearing it, but his reflexes were quick. Without hesitation, he released Charmeleon and Frogadier, who immediately stepped forward to protect him.
Grovyle, standing nearby, was also startled by Eddie's reaction. Sensing the tension, it moved closer, standing guard alongside Charmeleon and Frogadier.
However, there was no one in sight—no humans, no other Pokémon. The only ones present were Eddie, his Pokémon, and the Riolu that had suddenly appeared.
Eddie scanned his surroundings before turning his gaze back to Riolu.
"...Is this aura? I almost forgot that Riolu can communicate using aura," Eddie muttered, realizing that the voice had come from Riolu itself.
Aura was a special energy in the Pokémon world, primarily used by Riolu and Lucario, though a few rare humans could wield it as well.
Everything in the world had an aura, and those who could manipulate it could use it for sensing, detecting abilities, and even communicating telepathically. More advanced applications allowed the user to create attacks and barriers for defense.
In short, aura granted telepathy, mind-reading, offensive techniques, and defensive capabilities, making it an incredibly useful and powerful ability.
This was why the Lucario species was not only known for its combat prowess but also for its mastery over aura, which formed the foundation of its strength.
"Human Trainer, you haven't answered my question. Did you capture the Machop family in this area?"
Seeing that Eddie had yet to respond, Riolu repeated its question through aura.
"Well, I just arrived today. I did catch a few Machops, but I didn't see any Machop family. If you're referring to the ones I caught as a family, then I have nothing to say," Eddie replied casually.
Although Eddie was a little displeased with Riolu's one-sided questioning, he still wanted to capture it, so it was best to clear up any misunderstandings.
"...Through aura, I can sense that you're not lying. However, you're the only human deep inside Mt. Moon right now, so I can't completely rule out the possibility that you're involved in this matter," Riolu stated.
Despite its suspicion, Riolu withdrew from its battle-ready stance and, with a very human-like expression, added, "You are not lying. It seems you just happened to pass through here. And… you possess a natural force within you. Someone like you wouldn't be one of those evil people."
Eddie raised an eyebrow.
He hadn't expected Riolu to recognize the power of Viridian within him. But after a moment of thought, he realized this wasn't a bad thing.
In fact, it was a major advantage—forcing a Pokémon like Riolu into submission wouldn't work. Pokémon like it were naturally drawn to justice, refusing to follow criminals or evildoers. Convincing it through trust was the only way.
"Ahem, my name is Eddie," he introduced himself. "You seem anxious. How about I release the Machops I just caught? Maybe you can talk to them and get some useful information?"
Since Riolu was investigating the disappearance of the Machop family, and Eddie had just captured three Machops, it was a good opportunity to show goodwill. Instead of forcing communication, this might even help him befriend Riolu without battling.
Without waiting for Riolu's response, Eddie released the three Machops from their Poké Balls.
As soon as the three Pokémon saw Riolu, they happily cried out, as if reuniting with an old friend.
"Eddie, I apologize for my earlier suspicions, and I appreciate your help," Riolu said, now completely at ease.
It seemed confident that Eddie wasn't a bad person. Not only had it sensed the power of Viridian within him, but Eddie's willingness to cooperate had left a strong impression. Riolu's tone had softened considerably.
Eddie simply smiled. "No problem. Go ahead."
Riolu nodded before turning to communicate with the three Machops.
Though Riolu could use aura to speak with humans, most Pokémon couldn't. While Riolu and the Machops communicated through aura, Eddie could only pick up information based on the Machops' vocal reactions.