Vinnie grinned in return, warmed by the sight of Bulba's beaming smile, and nuzzled his hands back. It was true - he was still himself, foremost. They'd all already changed so much since arriving at the school, in ways he had no way of predicting, but Change was simply a matter of fact then. Just because they were due for more didn't mean he had to dread it. Even if things did turn sour... well. He had to keep moving forward regardless.

He breathed out slowly. Some things the Venusaur simply had no control over, so he had to learn to accept it. He had to learn to accept this, too.

"In my defense," he said, weakly but in good humour, "I make sure Jolt eats lunch sometimes."