[Vinnie nodded mutely as he nuzzled back. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, filling his lungs as far as they would go, before exhaling in a sigh. He didn't want Bulba to be angry, he wished the Ivysaur would let it go and allow this mess to be something the Venusaur deal with alone. But distantly, there was the tiniest feeling of gratification, knowing he cared. That he cared so intensely.

Smelling sweeter himself, Vinnie leaned his head against Bulba's and murmured:] I'm... pretty sure something's wrong. Some school thing. He wasn't like this earlier.

But even if he wasn't himself, he... [There was a pause as Vinnie steeled himself. The words were just so surreal to say.]

I don't have a Pokeball anymore. I'm officially free.