[To death, to defeat -- it matters, sure, but it doesn't matter a whole lot. What's the point of fighting just for the sake of it? Getting stronger, sure, but they've all had their share of fighting. Hope isn't the only one who's tired of it.]

So there's contests and things like that, too. Sounds like these creatures are a major part of this world.

[Poochyena makes a growling noise for a second, but then he relents. allowing Minccino to try to take the stick. Before long, the two are embroiled in an all-out tug of war. Honestly, Poochy seems to be enjoying it.

As for Noel? At Hope's words, he offers an actual, for-real smile. Hope, doing something smartypants-y? It's no less than exactly what Noel would expect from him.] Researching, huh? That sounds like just your speed. Do they have science centers for these guys or anything like that?