While I don't doubt the truth in that, I think that my companions may be slightly different from your run-of-the-mill housepet.

[ there are a remaining six poké balls on his belt that he takes in hand, then throws into the air. once they've all opened with their respective bursts of energy, the creatures materialize at his side, all staring at minato inquisitively. it's as he said - most of them (barring carbink and aron) don't seem like they would make very good pets. they look strong and well-trained, to the point of being fairly intimidating. ]

Everyone, please introduce yourselves.