"Can you make a little protective pose?"

"If you don't arrive in time, I'll take some action. This doesn't change whether you're there or not. ”

Hide

Despite the muttering in his mouth, Kem's expression did not change. In order to protect Leo until he accomplishes his purpose, he concentrates on observing the movements of the combatants and Hassam.

Seeing such a Kem was strange and irresistible for Leo. In Leo's view, human relationships are always equivalent exchange or unilateral exploitation. Below is the lowest level in the Ore area, where public safety is poor. This was the norm in his upbringing, so since he met Millais, he's met a lot of people who don't fit that norm. From the future, Ginza, thread, Azusa, and others have all offered Leo help without asking for anything in return. While some of his moves are somewhat reluctant, it's still a strange and unavoidable behavior for Leo.

"Well, at least do your best, even if you're not there."

"You'd better not do anything wrong here."

"Hah!"

Leo smiled with his nose and turned his attention back to Hassam. Not only does it treat companion Pokémon as bombs, but it also tries to use them to directly attack trainer Leo. This is something that ordinary Pokémon don't do, but dark Pokémon with closed hearts and erased memories don't have such logic.

Still disgusting as always

Even if the person in front of him is not Hassam's former partner, the existence of the Dark Pokémon is something that Leo doesn't like. That's why I snatched the Dark Pokémon while looking for Hassam at that time, but no matter how many times I saw it, I didn't like it.

"Bullet punch!"

"What about Mizuno?"

The water of the Water Monarch blocked Hassam's multiple attacks. Hassam's attack sent the water flying, but then Lei Gong rushed at him.

"Tangy!"

"Scissor Cross!"

Raylight's "shock wave" paralyzed Hasam's body, but in response, Hasam's "Scissor Cross" attacked Raylight. Considering the level difference, the damage is enormous, and Leo realizes once again that by turning into a dark Pokémon, he is able to draw power beyond his limits.

"Water King, Bodian"

"Damn Dark Charge!"

Hasam's attack pierced the waves of the Water King. The water splashed everywhere, and visibility deteriorated for a while.

The fighters saw this as an opportunity. Although it is a dark Pokémon, it is not immune to the speed drop due to paralysis, but I think it can directly attack Leo with a quick "bullet punch".

"Shoot Leo with a bullet punch!"

Just as Hassam's attack was about to be unleashed, Lei Gong jumped out of the smoke. Thunderlight's "100,000 volts" attacked Hassam. Hasam received a strong electric shock, which, combined with paralysis, made Hasam's body stiff.

"What?!"

\"It's over. Water Jun, Bodian. \"

A wave of water swept Hassam away. Coupled with Raiguang's attacks, they are generally attacks that can defeat him. However, Leo knows how strong the Dark Pokémon can be. I thought I wasn't going to crash at this level.

"Damn! This is terrible! Hassam! Attack Leo with a deadly charge of darkness! ”

The explosive enhancement of the black aura. The aura of a dark Pokémon that is normally impossible to see unless you can see the waveguide is reflected in Leo's eyes in the form of a spirit.

Hassam used his first attack, "Dark Dash", to disperse the waves of the Water King. Then, with great force, he rushed towards Leo. Lei Gong launched an attack to stop him, but even Lei Gong's electric shock was weakened by the "Dark Impact". In addition, when Mizu-kun tries to protect Leo, he attacks the ground and at the same time casts the "Shadow God", which instantly destroys his vision and passes through Mizu-kun's defenses.

The sense of battle is extremely strong. This is not only due to Hassam's own talents, but also to his physical abilities, which have broken through their limits after becoming a Dark Pokémon. However, in exchange for Hasam's body, it is a scream that must be being consumed. Even after exhaustion, he continued to fight, Leo stared directly at his former partner, who had become a weapon in his own right.

“… Strike"

This sentence was whispered. Despite knowing that it was useless to say anything to Hassam, who had lost his memory, Leo unconsciously called out his old name.

However, this sentence made Hasam's body stiffen instantly. Leo and Kem didn't miss the stiffness, which lasted less than a tenth of a second. At that moment, a red shadow appeared in front of Leo.

"Tell me how to protect myself, you idiot."

Bashamo of Kem was attacked by Hassam. The "Dark Charge" has tremendous power, but its power is diminished due to being wrapped in flames. In addition, by using the power of 'Gokiri' to spread the power in other directions, they succeeded in suppressing Masamo's damage to less than 20%.

"Low Kick"

Bashamo's leg hit Hassam's, who was temporarily stiff due to recoil damage. The speed of the decrease due to paralysis is further reduced, and the reaction to the approaching Mizu-kun is sluggish.

"Dark Charge!"

"Take it and give it back to me."

Hassam shoots Suzu-kun with his "Dark Dash", but he is wrapped in water, and his inherent durability minimizes damage, which is reflected not only in Mizu-kun himself, but also in Hassam. Champion Sirona's use of power comparable to that of Milo Carlos, such attacks and defenses not only show the potential of Mizu-kun herself, but also prove that Leo's ability has reached a championship level.

A wave of water swept Hassam away. Rolling on the ground, Hassam has reached his limit and is only one step away from being able to fight.

Seeing this, Leo immediately took action. I put an empty super ball inside the court and connected it to the snatch on my left.

"Come back, Stryker. \"

Leo throws the snatch ball at Hassam. A light like a big hand grabbed Hassam and dragged him into the ball. The ball holding Hassam rolled to the ground, shook a few times, and then closed completely with a click.

"Can you do it?"

"Ah, the snatch was successful."

Leo picks up the ball where Hassam is and places it in the stand. And the warrior who lost his hand glared at Leo through gritted teeth.

"You can't fight anymore, you surrender quickly, and I won't hurt you."

"Damn, I can't bear to run so far and get caught!"

The fighters shouted and began to run towards the sea. Then it jumped out of a rather high promontory.

"Hu Zi's prediction was correct. \"

"He's more energetic than I thought."

After jumping out, the fighters jumped into the sea and were caught by Minori, who was waiting in advance.

"It's not my turn yet."

When I handed over the last fighter jet to the policeman Junsha, the sky began to turn white. At the same time, Sirona, who was in charge of pursuing the fighters with the help of Hassam's legs, ended the operation without doing anything special.

"That's a good thing, isn't it?"

"yes, that's right. Also, since I don't have much to do, I can observe Leo-kun's battle up close. \"

Although there are only a handful of trainers in the world who can master legendary Pokémon. However, Leo is really rare to see, so watching Leo's battle up close is a great thrill for Sirona. This year's league is also approaching. Being able to see enough battles gave her fighting spirit, and Sirona's fighting spirit was quietly increasing.

And this Leo was leaning on the motorcycle in the garage of Ziting, staring blankly at the ball containing the snatched Hasam. There is a strange shape which is a small bicycle but seems to have been brought from the Åre area.

"Leo, what's wrong?"

Future or Leo asked, leaning on the sidecar of Leo's bike. Leo didn't answer, just glanced at Mire.

“… Nothing. ”

"That's a lie. I made a grimace that I don't usually do! ”

"It's annoying."

"So? What are you thinking? ”

Leo sighed at Mire's insistence and shouted at the two men and a woman chatting at the garage door.

"Hey, you guys."

"Yes?"

"Oh, what's wrong?"

When Sirona and Kem are called out, they turn to Leo. This is the first time I've talked to Shirona without Azusa and Miri prompting. Shirona secretly looked forward to what she would be asked.

"Why are you helping me?"

“？”

"No matter how much Azusa tells me, there's no reason for me to stay with you so late. Moreover, I have nothing to repay you, so why should I come this far? ”

Help is not even equal to equivalent exchange. In the eyes of Sirona and Kem, this is just a waste of time, but the two do not hesitate to lend their powers to Leo. Leo didn't know why.

Hearing Leo's words, the two looked at each other. Then, Sirona smiled slightly, and Kem folded her arms and said.

"Do you need a reason to help others?"

Kem tried to say something completely honest.

"Are you serious?"

"Ahh

"Ha, having come this far, kind-hearted idiots is also an advantage. That's why I wasn't deceived. \"

"I'm really not going to help anyone."

Kem, like Blakey, is sensitive to the malice of others. As a result, there have been several attempts in the past to exploit Cam's never-rebuffable character. But Kem was keenly aware of their malice and always refused their requests for some reason.

\"Then why should I help you? Did Azusa make me do this? \"

"Yes, that's one of the reasons."

“？ Is there any other reason? ”

\"Ahh Hey, Sirona. \"

Hearing Kam's words, Sirona nodded.

"Yes, the reason is simpler than you think."

"Simple?"

"Because I can see that you care about your Pokémon and want to get them back."

Leo's purpose was heard from Miree and the others. Just to get his former partner back. Leo's childhood friends include Effie, Blackkey, and Stryk, but Stryk is snatched away by the Shadow. He did not stop hating and even tried to achieve his goals by joining the snatching team. Leo's actions were motivated by hatred. Just look at the sparkle in Leo's eyes and you'll understand that. However, Sirona believes that the reason why he has been able to live for nearly ten years without letting go of his hatred is because he has a deep love for Pokémon in his heart. The heart is changeable, for better or for worse. Therefore, love sometimes turns into hate. Leo is a prime example.

"I joined an evil organization in order to reclaim my Pokémon. Wasn't it because of my love for Pokémon? Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to hold on to one thing for so long. ””。

"When I saw you like this, I remembered something. I guess that's why I want to help you. ”

What Shirona remembers is the days of her travels. Little by little, they progress with Pokémon, and in the process, their bond with each other deepens. I still remember the day when my heart was connected to Pokémon. It was a deep love. Although the form is somewhat different, Leo has the same love for Pokémon as Sirona, but when it is taken away, it turns into hatred. Shirona wants to help the boy who loves her too.

Cam, on the other hand, remembers differently. Kem is very similar to his previous self, and he wants to solve everything with his own hands. Like her sister, she solves everything with her own hands and moves forward strongly. I appreciated that and tried to be like that, but eventually I gave up in despair. Leo's previous self and his attempts to distance himself from others overlap slightly.

Shirona and Kem have different feelings for Leo. However, both feel that they are somewhat similar to Leo in some ways. That's why I've come so far, because I want to help.

"They're weird guys."

In Leo's opinion, this was just a strange thing. However, this is a normal thing for Shirona and the others. Leo thinks that people like Miree are just special, but he finally realizes that this is not the case.

"I see, there are still such people. \"

Leo muttered. Although the voice did not reach the ears of Bai Nai and the others, it reached the ears of Meili.

"Leo"

\"Ah, I see. \"

Leo placed the ball containing Hassam in his hand into the holder and took the key out of his coat pocket.

"Go?"

Azusa's voice suddenly sounded. Before she knew it, Azusa had returned, asking Leo and Milei at the garage door.

Faced with this question, the corners of Leo's mouth twitched.

"Yes. I think I'm a former member of the Loot organization. I don't have an official ID, so I'm still waiting for the police to come and hunt me down. ”

"What? You don't have an official ID? ”

"Well, I came here with a fake ID and I don't think I need it anymore."

"Ah, I've got my official ID."

Leo aside, Mei Lei is a real normal person. Unlike Leo, he has an official ID, so he is not entering the country illegally. However, Leo is inherently a wanted man. No matter how hard we try to sabotage the plans of the evil organization, this fact is the same.

As if he didn't care, Leo inserted the key into the bike and twisted it. The roar of the engine echoed in the garage.

"I can't help it. The aftermath will be handled by me and Shili-kun. \"

"Ahh

"Leo?"

Hearing Mirey's words, Leo sighed deeply and smacked his lips. Then, as if he had made up his mind, he closed his eyes and looked at Azusa.

"Azusa"

"Yes?"

"You have helped me in so many ways. Things wouldn't have been so easy without you. Thank you. ”

I didn't spend much time with Leo. However, even among them, Leo almost never thanked him sincerely. Still, in the end, Leo expressed his heartfelt gratitude, albeit at Mire's urging.

"Sirona and Keim are also saved. Thank you. \"

"It's okay, I said I'd help you."

"Ahh

"Hah"

Leo smiled in shock. That smile is no longer the same irony as before. It was a kind, really a childish smile, more appropriate for his age.

Seeing that smile, Miree smiled lightly and got into the sidecar. Confirming this, Leo turned the clutch of the motorcycle, making the sound of the engine. It looked like he was finally leaving, but Leo turned his attention to Shirona as if he remembered something.

"Oh, can I ask you one last thing?"

"What happened?"

"Do you know where Shelabi is enshrined?"

Faced with the sudden question, Sirona, Kem, and Azusa all blinked.

"Sherabi? Why Shelabi? ”

"Because the last key to revisiting is Sherrabi."

\"yes. Then you should go to the Ubom Forest in the Johto area, where there is a shrine dedicated to the Shelabi. \"

"I understand the Ubom Forest in the Johto region. I can help you. \"

Leo grabbed the handlebars of the bike and put on his goggles.

"Well, you good-hearted idiots, things haven't been bad lately."

"Thank you! See you soon! ”

\"Beautiful sauce! \"

Sirona smiled at Miri as she rode her bike and prepared to start running.

"Good luck!"

"Yes, yes!"

Milei replied with a smile and raised her hand. Just then, Leo started his bike. Leo leaves the garage on his motorcycle and disappears into Dawntown. The rest of the Shirona and the others watched her back until they disappeared from sight.

"He's gone. I'm going to miss him. ”

"That's right, they're all good boys."

I spent a short time with both of them. However, Azusa still has some attachment to the two. The future has an honest heart, and Leo is not honest at all, he only swears, and he doesn't trust people at all, but deep down he has an inseparable love for Pokémon. Although they are two completely different people, they are surprisingly compatible. Azusa wanted to continue to observe the interaction between the two.

"Still, he's a very arrogant man."

\"Gee, Kem-kun was so arrogant when he was a kid, wasn't he? \"

"Don't talk about when you were a kid."

"I want to hear it."

"Please let me take a break"

In the face of Kem's frustration, the two women smiled happily. After laughing for a while, Azusa put her hand on Kaym's shoulder.

"I've gotten a lot stronger, but my roots haven't changed, and I'm relieved."

“A？”

"Really, nothing has changed, he has a good temper and is very straightforward. However, unlike before, there is no shadow, do you have any good experiences? ”

As she spoke, Azusa looked at Sirona. Bai Nai, who was being watched, smiled a little shyly and responded to Azusa's gaze.

"Tsk"

Kem remained silent, crossing his arms in exasperation. Unsurprisingly, Kem seems to have a weakness for older sister-type women like Azusa and Isanna who move at their own pace.

"Miss Sirona, she's a dangerous girl in many ways, but please take care of Kaim. \"

\"Hehe, I see, Kem will leave it to me. \"

"If Miss Sirona is here, I don't think there's a problem. \"

Azu smiled and breathed a sigh of relief. I don't know what Kemzi saw. However, since Azusa said, "As long as Shirona is there, it's okay", I think it should be fine.

"Alright, it's time to go home, it's almost dawn."

"Ahh

"You barely slept all night. Well, we did everything we could because we wanted to. ”

Even though it's Sirona, it's still a little unbearable to stay up late. My body started complaining of fatigue.

Suddenly, Sirona looked down and saw Azusa's left hand. He wears a silver ring on the ring finger of his left hand.

Ah, the ring

In Azusa's research institute, Azusa is the only one. It doesn't feel like anyone else lives there. With Azusa's age, they shouldn't have been married for a long time.

Lab, maybe he has another home?

This place is known as Azusa's "Laboratory". In other words, "home" is another matter, Sirona thought. If that's the case, it's only natural that Azusa's husband isn't there. Azusa is a world-renowned researcher. It would not be surprising if he had a home in addition to the institute, and the income would be so high.

Oh well

I could have asked Azusa for the answer herself, but Bai Nai didn't think there was a problem, so she didn't ask anymore.

Anyway, I found out that Azusa was married. Shirona looked up at the sky and was jealous of this fact.

It's just dawn.

"Dark Pokémon, right?"

On the way home, Sirona walked on the empty road, talking to herself.

"Do you hate people who do this kind of thing?"

Sirona thought for a moment about Kem's question. Bai Nai stopped with a complicated expression.

"What? Woo head. It's true that I can't forgive people who do this, but there's nothing I can do about it either. ”

"Well, the ore area is too far away, and we can't help it."

"I have some ideas about dark Pokémon, but I don't have anything special to say about them. But what did Leo have in mind when he first saw a dark Pokémon and found out that his Pokémon was being used? "Kanatte"

If her Pokémon were forced to do something like that, just thinking about it would make Hakuna feel sick and angry. However, Shirona wonders what the hell is going on with Leo.

"He's more interested in finding his own Pokémon than the Dark Pokémon itself. He must have thought of something, but I don't know what he was thinking. ”

"I want to touch that child's heart even more."

The time spent there was short, but more importantly, Leo didn't try to show his heart to others. I've been lucky enough to see some of the roots, but that's far from the whole story. What he saw and what he felt was known only to himself, or only to Millais, who was watching around him.

\"Ah, I see. \"

"I think you can be friends with Leo."

"I don't know. Maybe you're crazy because of homophobia. ”

"Do you know anything about your tribe?"

"Hmm"

Kem scratched his head and looked up at the sky, where the morning sun had already begun to rise.

"A very dark event happened at the end."

I came to the Hoenn area to do research for my dissertation. There are a few other events in between, but I think it has served its original purpose. In the past month or so, I have learned, learned, helped, and been helped by many things. I've been through a lot since I met Sirona, but this is the first time I've spent so much time on myself.

"You've worked for me in the academic field since we met, gaining a lot of experience in the process. In battle, you gain a lot of training and experience for your Pokémon. But you yourself I never worked for people, for Pokemon I continue to work for others. ”

"Maybe because of the previous reasons, I haven't done the most obvious and simple thing."

"Yes, so, in a sense, this stay is also a kind of return to the roots, a good time to reflect on yourself and understand your roots."

"Although its roots are unexpected."

In fact, his roots are the same meteor people as zinnias. It was a huge shock for Kem, and he couldn't believe it.

"There are some parts that I kind of agree with."

"Is that so?"

"Ahh Meteors have been carrying on and carrying on their history for a long time. I got into archaeology because I had a love for history. I'm a descendant of the Meteors, inheriting the history of their people, and maybe I'm interested in history. ”

"Whew, yes. It's possible. ”

However, this is not the case with Isana, who is also a descendant of the Meteors. So, it may not necessarily be the case, but I can't help but feel that there is some kind of causal relationship behind Kem's interest in history.

"You have special blood flowing through your veins."

"Ah well, I guess that's not the point. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter what kind of blood relative you are, it's what you really achieve. I'm surprised that you are of a special pedigree. "Relatives. But don't worry. ”

Keim had once arisen to become a "special being" like his sister, but that special came from what he had achieved. So whatever blood flowed, it didn't matter to Kem.

"Did you do it? Then, you've been promoted to the head of the gym, which is special enough. ”

"Maybe. However, I have not achieved much in my studies, and I will continue to work hard. ”

"Yes, that's right. In fact, the real work is only beginning now. You're stepping into the world of professionalism. You can't get there half-heartedly. ”

"I know. I can't do it alone, but well, with you, I can do it. ”

"Yes, I'm sure so. I think so too. ”

In the future life, there must be many hardships waiting for the two of them. But no matter how difficult it was, both of us could overcome it. Bai Nai had such a premonition.

"With you by my side, which is special to me, I feel like I can do anything as long as you are by my side."

"I see."

Slightly vague response. Maybe he's embarrassed, maybe he's feeling the same way, or both. In any case, no matter which path the two take, they vowed to continue to be by each other's side, work together, and one day inherit this heart and time.

Sirona took a step forward and held out her hand to Kem, the early morning sun behind her. The beautiful sparkling blonde hair caught Kem's attention.

"Let's go, let's go home."

“… Ahh

I took Sirona's hand and stood in a line next to her.

The two go home in the sun, hoping to stay in this place until that day and beyond.

I am sincerely grateful for the rich connections that this land has given me.

When the sun went down and the date passed, the light still shone through Cam's room. When I opened the door, I saw Cam wearing blue-light blocking glasses, facing the computer, tapping on the keyboard. Mukuhawk and Chelishan stared at Kaiwu, but Kaiwu was so engrossed that he didn't seem to notice. Sirona shouted at Kem, who was a little taken aback at the monitor.

"Why don't you take a break?"

Umiki returned to the Sinnoh region from the Hoenn region and resumed his role as the director of the gym. The former who was entrusted with the agency again left somewhere. On the way home, Shirona was impressed by his smile.

Keim is back in the gym, but he's also having to write papers. Before going to the Hoenn area, I had been working on parallel projects, but as I had access to a lot of valuable material, the writing became more intense. I had hoped to present my work with Sirona at an academic conference in the winter, so the writing cycle was shorter than expected. Fortunately, though, the assumptions made by Cam and Dr. Platanu are not much different from the facts revealed this time.

"Not sharp, a little more will do."

However, it is true that we are running out of time. After finishing his job as a gym leader, Kem was busy writing late into the night every day. We all know we don't have time. However, even with that in mind, Kem is a little too focused.

"You said thirty minutes ago, you're going to the gym tomorrow, right? Now go to sleep. ”

\"No, so Kiri\"

"Blackie, Bashamo"

As she said this, Hei and Basha Mo appeared from behind Sirona. Blackie jumps at the back of Kem's head, and Bashamo grabs Kem's face.

"Hey."

Instead of hearing Kem trying to stop him, Bashamo grabbed Kem by the back of his neck and dragged him towards the bedroom. Seeing this, Sirona saved the data of the paper she was working on and turned off the computer.

"Basha Mo, have you been treating me badly lately? \"

"Because you don't reflect."

"No, there's no way around it. \"

"You're too anxious, there's still time, don't be too anxious, you're already caring about others, but you're ignoring yourself."

Kem apparently has a strange distribution of consciousness between himself and others, but he doesn't really realize it. I thought I was a little better since the Darkrai incident, but by writing and being a gym captain at the same time, I started again. However, compared to ordinary people, their bodies are stronger and their physical strength is stronger, so they can force themselves a little, so they will not pant easily. It seems to be Shirona's fault, as she doesn't realize it.

"I try to get at least six hours of sleep. I don't think that's a problem. ”

"No, please write for at least seven hours. It is true that you write quickly, but if you take into account the revisions, you only write half of it. At the current rate, even Kem writes fast. "Stamina, you will be out of breath."

"Nothing..."

\"Also, you don't have much time to rest when you're in the Hoenn area, do you? You look like you're starting to get tired. \"

Hearing Sirona's words, Kem couldn't help but fall silent. In fact, there isn't much time to rest in the Hoenn area. There was a part of it that was unavoidable, because I didn't have time to rest because of the repeated research and tidying, but I started to feel a little tired. I'm not going to try to fool myself with energy drinks or anything like that, but if I continue at this pace, I'm sure I'll be out of breath at some point.

"If it really doesn't work, I'll let my Pokémon watch you all day."

"Please let me take a break."

"If you don't like it, then in moderation, okay?"

"Well done"

Basamo

"Aida Dada!"

Bashamo's iron claws tightened Kem's head. Sure enough, if you are hit by the grip of a Pokémon, even the stronger Kem will be seriously injured. And, perhaps because of some resentment, her nails curled slightly. It's impossible not to hurt.

"Got it?"

"I'll be careful. \"

"Alright, Bashamo, you let me go."

“？ Bashamo is my Pokémon, right? ”

Keim was dragged away while he was suspicious of Bashamo, who was more obedient than he was to follow Sirona's instructions. All the while, Blakey rubbed his face against Cam's head.

The destination he was dragged to was the bedroom next door. Realizing that he had no choice but to sleep, Kem took a deep breath, pulled Blackie out of his head, and sat down on the bed. Seeing this, Bashamo, who was dragging Keim, returned to the ball and fell asleep.

"Yes, that's okay."

"Hey, hey, when I'm all here, I'll sleep in peace."

"Blackie is also by your side."

Sirona gently patted Blackie's head. When Blakey is stroked, he purrs with pleasure. Seeing this, Sirona smiled kindly and sat down beside Kem.

Kem looked at Shirona from the side. Sirona's clothes have a somewhat low defense and are very rough. Summer is just around the corner, and the weather is getting hotter and hotter in the northern Sinnoh region. As a result, Sirona wears a short-sleeved shirt, a thin hoodie, and shorts at home. In the height of summer, I sometimes just wear a t-shirt or a camisole. Although it was better than that, it felt too exposed for the restrained Kem. Sure, Kem wears modest clothes when he's outside, but Kem wonders if he can do something at home.

That is, the two have been living together for some time. And, it's been almost a year since we started dating. Although it was late, Kem still had a lot of ideas in his mind.

You're so defenseless.

I sighed inwardly and stroked the little black on my leg. At first, I thought he might not be seen as a man, but I understood that the most important thing for Sirona was to "show her non-patterns". So, I didn't complain, but I was happy and a little worried at the same time, because I was too vulnerable.

Of course, Sirona couldn't have known what Kem was thinking. When Cam turned his gaze, he tilted his head slightly. Bai Nai's usual majesty is completely different from hers, and her demeanor is also very relaxed. With a slight sense of superiority that only he could see, Kem stroked Sirona's head roughly.

"Wait what? Hehe, don't say it. ”

Her smile was completely different from her usual majesty, with a somewhat innocent smile. I couldn't help but feel the love in her smile, something I rarely see outside.

As Kem silently stroked him, Sirona pinched his cheeks with her fingers. Then, he forcefully upturned the corners of his mouth, which were not usually upturned. The corners of her mouth were raised, and a face seemed to be smiling, but her eyes were different from a smile. First of all, it is even more cruel to make such a request to Keim, because he rarely has the so-called typical smile.

"Just lifting the corners of your mouth doesn't mean you're smiling."

"Of course. My facial expressions are notoriously poor. ”

"It's not something that needs to be called the shots."

Of course, just because his expression doesn't move doesn't mean he doesn't have any emotions. Although his expression barely moved, his expression changed slightly. If you exclude the bitter face and the Buddha face, apart from the family, only Bai Nai and Daigo can probably feel the subtle differences in facial expressions. Recently, there have been more and more people who can understand emotions from an atmosphere other than facial expressions, but these two people are the only ones who can fully grasp the subtleties of facial expressions.

I smiled bitterly in my heart, thinking that I was in love with someone who was in trouble, but even so, I thought it was cute. It's been four years since she met, and it's been quite a long time since she realized that she had feelings for him. However, Sirona's feelings for Kem still fill her heart and do not fade.

"Let's go to sleep, there's tomorrow."

"Ahh

The two lay on the bed, snuggling up to each other. Originally, it was a single bed, but the two beds were put together to become a double bed. In the end, most of them fit into a single size, but when it comes to sleeping with Pokémon, a single size is really too small. Even now, Togkis is lying on Kem's back, a little tired of the sweet exchange between the two, so considering Togkiss, it can be said that this form of attached bed is the best.

Cam rolled over and faced Torgkiss. Then he buried his face in Togkiss's fluffy feathers and stroked it gently.

"Togikiss, your pillow holding skills are so good~"

I stroked my fluffy feathers and couldn't help but whisper. Then Blakey turned around and said, "Come and hug me too!" He said, tugging at Cam's shirt.

"I think Blackie wants to be touched too."

"You're always touching me, aren't you? Come on. ”

When Kem beckoned, Blackie happily walked over to Kem. Then, she curled up on Kem's stomach and stroked Togakis's cheek next to Kem. Kem gently stroked Blake's chin, and Sirona lay down and snuggled up to him.

"Hehe, Togikis's wings still feel good. \"

"In terms of feel, it's probably better than the mouthpiece."

"Mukhok Hawk is also fluffy and feels great."

"It felt fluffy. It is more suitable as a futon than a pillow. ”

"What is the suitability of a futon?"

Sirona snuggled up to Kem's arm, laughing and complaining at words she didn't understand. I could hear Sirona's heartbeat coming from my embrace, and I felt a sense of security. Perhaps out of a sense of security and daily exhaustion, Kem's consciousness gradually fell into a light sleep. Sensing that Cam was about to fall asleep, Sirona kissed him softly.

"Good night, Kem."

You can sleep with your loved ones and Pokémon. Sirona closed her eyes and remembered the little happiness of those days.

*

Tomorrow morning

While eating breakfast with Pokémon, the two confirmed their plans for the day.

"What are your plans for today?"

"Today is a joint training with the Nagisa Gym, so it shouldn't be too late to come over this time. I'm going to prepare dinner, and when I'm hungry, I'll eat some rice balls. ””。

"Okay, I've got a meeting today, I have an interview, and I'll be out in the afternoon."

"Interview?"

"Yes. Before the league. ”

"Ah, is that time of year?"

Before the start of the league, the scheduled top four and champions are always interviewed by the league report. Regularly publish league reports, and inform about changes in curators, substitution selection, etc. It also provides useful information for gym challengers, making it a widely useful resource, but surprisingly, newbies are often unaware of it.

"You've been interviewed more than a dozen times, right? I think you'll get used to it, right? ”

"I'm used to it compared to the first time, but I'm still a little nervous."

"You don't get nervous in a fight, do you?"

"Fighting and interviewing are different."

"Is that so?"

Shirona became a champion as a teenager and has remained champions ever since. That's why I give interviews every year, but I'm still a little nervous. I'm used to it, so I can pretend not to be nervous, but I'm still a little nervous. It was.

"Was that the last time it was on TV?"

"Of course, but in the case of TV dramas, as long as they are rehearsed, it is not a big problem."

"Uh, is that so?"

Just when I thought it had nothing to do with me, a self-proclaimed ordinary person, Sirona saw through my thoughts and said to Kem with a smile.

"Maybe you'll be interviewed soon, too?"

"Huh? Why me? ”

"Because you're not the head of the gym. This hasn't changed for a long time in Mai Ao City. You're going to replace the veteran Togensan, so the league won't fail to interview you. ”

"Nothing..."

Togan is the oldest coach among the current gym leaders. Because of this, it has been loved by many trainers and has become a familiar existence for many trainers.

Kem was appointed Togan's successor. Although he received a lot of attention simply for being the new director of the gym, he became Togan's successor. It would not be surprising if the coalition PR would one day report on this.

"Really? I'm looking forward to it. ”

"Why..."

"Oh, will your news spread throughout Sinnoh? Everyone will know that my apprentice is very powerful. I'm not happy. ”

"You're better than me"

I have no intention of looking down on myself, I like who I am. But that being said, Keim's achievement is currently equivalent to Sirona's backward compatibility. It was because of Shirona that I was able to get to this point, and even though I never achieved anything, I am really proud of what I have achieved. However, if we look only at the facts, Kem's gym leadership and essay writing are far from Sirona's.

"If you just look at the facts, you already know the meaning of what you have accumulated. As long as you take pride in what you've accumulated and keep learning, you'll build on what you've already done and keep doing it. "It's not mine."

“… Ahh

"Therefore, I have no doubt that what you are doing will attract attention."

Sirona said with a happy smile. As Sirona said, what Sirona and Kem do is different. As a champion, Sirona is the top trainer in the Sinnoh region and is the target of many trainers, but as the gym master, Kem teaches young trainers and tries to show them the way forward. In addition, the two men have very different approaches in the academic field. Shirona's main research topic is Sinnoh mythology, while Kem is researching the history of the cashier's Pokémon, which has nothing to do with the region. Although they have the same field, what they do is very different.

That's why Shirona has no doubts about Kem's concern. In fact, I think it's natural. I hope that his good qualities will continue to spread all over the world.

"You're already an adult, aren't you?"

"Hehe, just a little more than you."

"I don't think there are only two things that are different from me."

It's only been two years. We have only lived for such a short period of time and have not changed. Even so, Sirona once again realized that she had seen far more than she had seen herself, and she had improved herself.

"You and I are two different people, so even if we see the same thing, you and I will definitely come up with different answers. What happened in the past is not a big deal, what matters"

"What are we going to do now?"

"If only you understood."

As she spoke, Shirona poured the miso soup into her mouth. Relieved by the consistent taste, Shirona continued to eat.

After breakfast, washing, and preparation, Cam picked up his bag and put on his shoes.

"Then I'll go, I'll prepare lunch for you, you can take it to the interview site, or you can eat it at home, whatever you want."

"Okay, thanks."

Keim wears black underwear, a navy blue training suit, and breathable black sweatpants. Summer is approaching and the temperature is gradually rising. If the temperature in the morning is like this, you won't have any problems wearing this dress into the evening.

"I don't think it's too late, but if you're hungry, I have some puffins in the fridge. Eat whatever you want. ”

"As usual, you're well prepared, ah, I'll show you how the paper was done, and if there's anything you're interested in, I'll send it to you on a tablet as usual."

"It's very helpful."

Kem slung the bag on his back and pulled a handful of eagles out of the ball. Just as I was about to look at the hook with the key on it, Shirona shouted to Kem.

"Hey, Kem."

"Yes?"

Sirona silently closed her eyes and turned her face slightly towards Kem. Kem's eyes widened instantly, not knowing what was happening, but he quickly realized the meaning of Sirona's movements. I thought about what to do for a few seconds, then scratched my head.

I don't know if you can do it

I wanted to give it a try, but since I didn't have much expectations, I gave up thinking it was impossible. When I opened my eyes, I saw that Kem's face was right in front of me.

“！ Ugh"

The time is very short, about a dozen seconds. However, in the moment when it felt like an eternity, Sirona couldn't help but surrender.

"Whew, ahhhhhh

Their mouths parted. Sirona looked into Kem's eyes and felt only a little regret. I felt as if I had been sucked into the deep, blue eyes of the ocean.

"Are you satisfied?"

“？ Ah, yes."

A deep voice said, and I was at a loss for a moment. Kem's ears were dyed bright red, even though he looked finished. Kem scratched his head and put his arms around Sirona.

"I'm coming."

"Be careful"

Sirona also wrapped her arms around Kem's body and hugged him gently.

It didn't take long for the two to go their separate ways. Keim then took Mukuhawk to the gym.

After seeing off Kem, Sirona happily returned to her room and got to work. Rothrad, who was watching the exchange at the door, was naïve and distant.

Similarly, Kem's Mukhhawk, who was watching next to him, stared at Kem, protesting that he was being fed too much sugar, but Kem didn't notice his gaze.

And the person concerned has red ears all the time on his way to and from work.

At Miaojian

"Hey, Kemsan, are you in a good mood today?"

A girl who works as a fitness instructor asks a fitness trainer of the same age.

“？ Is it? ”

However, the girl who was asked this question tilted her head and did not quite understand. After all, the current Gym Master's expression was too static compared to the previous Gym Master. I can somewhat understand his emotions from his tone and mood, but it is difficult to tell if he is in a good mood because his facial expressions are difficult to express.

\"That's right! I mean, isn't Mr. Keim's tone very high today? \"

"Ah, if you ask me, that's probably true."

"Really? Is anything good happening? ”

"Is that a good thing, I won some tournaments or something?"

"Then we all know it, right? And it doesn't look like he's going to be competing in any competitions. ”

"Really? For a gym director, this is unusual. ”

Gym leaders have a fairly high skill level among trainers. As a result, there are many patterns in which he has achieved good results in competitions, but Keim has almost never been present. As the director of the gym, he is quite rare.

"There are rumors that he is a supporter of a great coach."

"Supporters? Gym leader? ”

"Yes, this is rare, and there are a few people at the top who have supporters, but that supporter is the director of the gym, isn't it rare?"

"I think so. At least, I haven't heard of it. ”

"What does it mean to make the Dao Hall Master a supporter like the Four Heavenly Kings?"

\"Ah, I think I can be a supporter of Obasan. \"

\"Don't you think that the five generations of classmates can also go? Kemu-san, you look like a physical person, but you're smart, right? \"

\"Yes! I heard that you are from Jade Worm University! It's amazing. \"

"So, I want to know who it is."

"An unexpected champion?"

\"Mr. White Name? Did that person wear protective gear? \"

"I haven't said it publicly, but there are rumors. Well, the supporters of Kem are just rumors in the first place. ”

Even from the gym trainer's point of view, I think Keim's skills are good enough to be a leader in the gym. If Kem becomes a supporter, he is expected to become a superb trainer, but the story itself is just a rumor. The two felt that there was no point in thinking about it anymore and returned to the original topic.

"Then why do you think you're in such a good mood?"

"Something to do with her!"

"What?! Do you have a girlfriend? ”

"Obviously. I heard it the other day while chatting with my uncles, so I'm sure it's true. ”

"Hey, hey! But it's not surprising if there is, the specifications are quite high. ”

"I want to know what kind of person he is."

"I can't imagine it."

"What do you think you'll be like in front of her?"

"I don't think much has changed, though. But his attitude was a bit erratic. ”

"It could be ~"

At this point, Kem sneezed lightly as he read the revision of the paper.

*

Shou City

Shirona came to the TV station Shou building. The purpose is, of course, a pre-tournament interview.

\"Miss Sirona, thank you again this time. \"

"Yes, thank you."

After greeting the league publicists, we began to discuss the issues, details, and rehearsal procedures. The exchange itself hasn't changed since Shirona became champion, so Shirona, who knows a little bit about the order, went smoothly.

After that, we had a meeting for a while, and then we rested. There's still some work to be done after that, so they'll set up studios. Therefore, Shirona decided to take a break for a while.

As I watched the studio setup progress, a lady approached Sirona.

"Oh, Miss Sirona. Is this a PR interview? \"

\"Ah, Kikuno-san. \"

"Hehe, you look good."

It was Kikuno who shouted to Sirona. She is one of the Four Heavenly Kings of the Sinnoh region and the oldest woman among the Four Heavenly Kings. He has long been one of the Four Heavenly Kings, and they have kept in touch since Sirona became the champion.

"Yes, this is a PR interview. If you're here, it means that Kikuno-san is here too. \"

"yes, I don't know how many interviews like this have been conducted."

Kikuno has long been one of the Four Heavenly Kings. It is much older than Sirona. Shirona doesn't know exactly when this ad started, but it's certain that it was around before Shirona set off. Since then, Kikuno has become one of the Four Heavenly Kings and has been interviewed more than 20 times in total.

"Hehe, it seems like I've only been interviewed for the first time recently, and Miss Sirona is really nervous about being interviewed for the first time. \"

\"Ah, please stop, it's my first time with Kikuno-san. \"

"She was very confident when she was interviewed, but given how she did in rehearsal, she was definitely a girl my age. Now she is a respectable lady. ”

"It's been more than a decade now."

It's been more than a decade since Sirona defeated the last champion. I still remember that day very well. With the expectation of the strongest challenge, Hakuna fights in an atmosphere full of ambition and suffocating sharpness. I'm sure that Shirona that day felt the same way as the light last year.

Since then, Kikuno has been one of the Four Heavenly Kings. Kikuno became a champion two generations ago and still holds his position as one of the Four Heavenly Kings and still exists as a barrier for challengers, nurturing the next generation. They met when Sirona was a Gym Challenger, and they still stand side by side. This fact can be said to prove that the trainer named Kikuno still has a firm and firm belief in the earth.

"I didn't win last year, so I want to win this year. Miss Sirona was really strong last year. I'm sure she'll be stronger this year. ”

"Of course. A champion is someone who is constantly improving. ”

"Hehe, youth is so beautiful."

Kikuno paused and looked at the staff who were busy arranging.

"At this age, I'm more excited than ever to see the progress of young people. Young talents like me have absorbed the good of their predecessors and reached greater heights, and I love seeing this in Pokémon League. I love it. I look forward to it every year. Recently, not only in the Sinnoh region, but also in the Sinnoh region, a lot of talent has emerged. That's why I think so. ”

"Yes, there are also outstanding talents such as Xiaoguang, Junjun, Red, and Green in other regions. \"

The talent of today's young coaches is attracting the attention of the world. Led by the Kanto champion Red, the red opponent Green, and his two childhood sweethearts, Courage in the Hoenn region, Light and Army in the Sinnoh region, Iris the champion in the United region, and the possibility of being called the strongest challenger. The trainers are well-known all over the world, including the hero Toya, who can be compared to N. When Sirona first became a champion, she received a lot of attention as the youngest champion in the Sinnoh region, so when she saw the same talent that appeared as herself, she felt nostalgic and decided to work hard. So that she will not be defeated. That's what I think.

"Miss Sirona is too powerful. When you became champions, I was in the semi-finals. \"

\"yes, I still remember that fight. At that time, I was able to fight both the champion at the time, Mr. Kurotsugi, and the former champion, Mr. Kikuno\"

Kikuno is the champion before Kurotsugu became the champion, that is, he is the champion before Sirona.

"It's been more than ten years since now, and time flies so fast."

"yes, I think about that a lot, too."

It's been a long time since I became a champion, and it's been a long time since I met Kaim, no matter how you look at it. Sirona's life goes on, but it still feels like the past is gone in the blink of an eye.

At this point in the conversation, Kikuno immediately asked Shirona a question.

"Speaking of which, what about your assistant?"

"Oh, Kem? He's not here. He is now training with Miodokan and Nagisa Dokan. ”

\"Oh, that's right! I think I'm familiar with it, but Togen-san's successor should be your assistant! \"

Kikuno and Kem barely knew each other. However, after hearing that Sirona had hired an assistant to do everything herself, she only greeted him once. As a result, the name and face did not match, and it seemed that the recognition was limited.