[See, that's where the growth comes in. That's where the pride comes in. That he's learned, that he's figured out there's a line, how to stick to it. One of these days, when Shiro's not so worried about his teammate's well-being, he'll figure out how to say it. Hopefully.]

[He tries, he's tried his best, but he's still... kind of a disaster of his own, deep down.]

It wasn't important to him, I think. He connected with you, just hearing about you.

[Another series of nods from the Gallade. Look, he's not the strongest. He's a support Pokemon. Is it really a wonder he went and identified with the guy who struggled too?]

... Blue's not one of the frontliners. He's a support. He'll come out, buff our defenses, lower the opponent's. When he's got the advantage, he takes it.

But I think that's why he clicked with you -- it took him a while to figure out where he fit best, too.

[Okay well, thanks for that, Dad. Blue sort of hunkers down where he's sitting, looking as embarrassed as a lanky onion knight can.]