Inside the game center, the machine hums softly. Lights flicker brightly as they change colors with every new Pokémon that appears on the screen. A red and white figure runs down a small path, stopping suddenly to look at its right. A Poké Ball, now slightly dented from use, lies in front of it. The ball isn’t empty; inside, there’s a tiny green creature with two big eyes.

A player steps closer, pressing a button that causes the machine to vibrate gently. The Poké Ball’s lid opens slowly, and out pops a small, cute Pokémon. It stands on its feet, looking around curiously before hopping back into the ball. As it disappears inside, a soft, clear liquid trickles down one side of the ball.

The player lifts the Poké Ball up to inspect it better. The droplet forms a perfect teardrop shape, hanging there for just an extra second longer than necessary before falling onto the floor with a tiny plop. The machine whirs again as another button is pressed, and the whole process starts over.

Players walk by, some stopping to watch or to play, but no one seems too concerned about the little drop on the ground. It’s clear that this isn’t uncommon—there are several more Poké Balls nearby with similar drops, each one a small reminder of all the Pokémon that have been caught and released today.