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"You asked if I had a specific goal?" Erika repeated, growing thoughtful. "Not really. The decision to travel to Johto was kind of spontaneous I haven't set any clear targets yet."
"I see…" Kai rubbed his chin. "Alright then, I'll give you an overview of the Grass-type Pokémon I came across during my time in Johto. I haven't covered the entire region yet, but I can at least offer a decent starting point."
He pulled out his Pokédex and opened the map on his phone, syncing the two. As Erika leaned in, Kai walked her through the various habitats he'd visited and the Grass-types he'd encountered along the way.
The explanation lasted several minutes before his throat started to dry. He paused, took a sip of tea to soothe his voice, and just then, Erika placed a tray of snacks on the table and refilled his cup.
True to her upbringing, Erika was the picture of refinement. Raised in a traditional household, she was elegant, graceful, and knowledgeable in art, etiquette, cooking, and even flower arrangement. Every movement she made seemed to anticipate the needs of others.
She was beautiful, capable, and kind an undeniably ideal woman.
Kai smiled and thanked her, then tried one of the snacks.
Each piece was beautifully crafted, soft, and delicate, melting the moment it touched his tongue. Not only did they taste great they looked like miniature works of art.
The flavor brought back memories of the Indigo League tournament when he'd run into Erika and her entourage in the wild. Back then, she'd also shared some handmade treats. That experience had left a lasting impression.
And now, all those feelings came flooding back.
After finishing a few pieces, Kai resumed talking. Erika listened attentively, occasionally chiming in. Before long, she had a decent picture of the Johto region's layout and where to find various grass types.
When Kai finally put away his Pokédex and phone, Erika let out a small sigh.
"Sounds like I'll be visiting quite a few places if I want to catch a variety of Pokémon."
"It's really not as complicated as it sounds," Kai said reassuringly. "Travel these days is easy. Flights between Kanto and Johto are quick, and the cities are all close together. You won't need to camp out or rough it, honestly; it's more like a guided nature walk. So, when do you plan to leave?"
"Hm… likely in the next couple of days," Erika replied after a moment. "But I still need time to prepare pack a few things, and make arrangements back home."
Kai nodded, understanding.
Unlike him, who could drop everything at a moment's notice, Erika had a full plate. She was not only a Gym Leader but also the owner of a perfume boutique and a professional florist. Her life was always packed with responsibilities.
"You know," Kai added, "you really deserve a proper break. With your Gym closed for renovations, this is a rare chance to recharge. While you're out catching Pokémon, make sure you also enjoy some of Johto's famous scenic spots. Think of it as a long-overdue vacation."
Then, as if on a whim, he added, "Actually, I'm heading back to Johto tomorrow. If you want, we could travel together."
"…Together?" Erika repeated, hesitating.
Having someone to travel with would certainly make the journey easier. But…
She paused. With Sabrina gone, the idea of traveling alone with Kai gave her pause. Back when Sabrina was around, it felt less complicated even if they weren't close, there was still another woman in the mix. But now, traveling one-on-one?
She glanced at Kai.
His expression was genuine kind, unassuming. She remembered all the times he'd helped her, protected her. He wasn't like other men.
Besides, he had a girlfriend. This would just be two Trainers traveling together.
'No big deal. Don't overthink it' she told herself.
And with that, Erika made up her mind.
Across from her, Kai instantly regretted his offer the moment he said it.
He and Erika were just friends, and suggesting they travel together might come off the wrong way. He hadn't meant anything by it it was just an offhand suggestion! But now it felt awkward to take it back.
Hoping to ease any misunderstanding, he quickly clarified: "Uh… I just figured, you know, it might be safer for you. Traveling alone can be unpredictable. Two people watching each other's backs—it just seemed like a practical idea. But if you'd rather go on your own, that's totally fine! Pretend I didn't say anything."
The excuse sounded flimsy, even to his own ears.
But to his surprise, Erika nodded. "Alright. I'll get everything ready tonight. We'll leave together tomorrow."
"Huh?" Kai blinked.
'Wait—she agreed?!'
He could swear he'd just said that without thinking, with no ulterior motive whatsoever!
He forced a smile. "Ah, yeah. Sure! Sounds good. Let's travel together, then…"
Erika stood up. "Great. I'll go handle my preparations. Oh, do you plan to stay here tonight? We have some guest rooms available. That way, we can have breakfast in the morning and head out right after."
"No need," Kai replied quickly. "I'll crash at the Pokémon Center tonight. Let's meet at the Gym entrance first thing tomorrow."
Leaving the Gym, Kai headed to the Celadon Pokémon Center and booked a room for the night.
But as he lay in bed, something didn't sit right.
He tossed and turned, debating whether he should tell Sabrina about the plan. Would she misunderstand?
He reached for his phone… then hesitated.
Sabrina's not exactly the jealous type… but still.
If she found out and wasn't thrilled, things could go south fast.
And knowing her psychic powers, she might literally turn him into a doll if she got angry.
Yeah… maybe best to keep this under wraps for now.
It's just a short trip, anyway. Once Erika catches what she needs, she'll head back to Kanto.
And as long as he didn't bring it up…
No one ever needs to know (😗)
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