After sending off the students—most of whom left with thoughtful expressions—Kai let out a deep sigh of relief.
A quick glance at the time told him that class had ended right on schedule. No overtime—now that's a win!
Clap, clap, clap, clap.
Kukui approached Kai while applauding, admiration evident on his face. "Kai, you really care about these students. A lot of the lessons you taught today are things Trainers usually have to learn the hard way, but you're making sure they understand before they ever step into those pitfalls."
"A truly excellent class. Even I learned a lot from it."
Kukui had a feeling that, someday in the future, he too would have a moment where Kai's teaching methods would come in handy.
Kai chuckled. "I'm getting paid for this job, so of course, I need to deliver real, valuable lessons. It's best to instill these experiences in them while they're still young."
Kukui nodded. "Speaking of which, Naranja Academy has one of the largest libraries in the world, right? Would I be allowed to visit?"
"Of course you can."
A voice came from behind them.
Kukui turned, curious to see who had spoken, while Kai's expression twitched slightly.
Seriously? She actually showed up?
---
The newcomer was none other than Geeta—the Chairwoman of the Paldea Pokémon League, its Top Champion, and the chairwoman of Naranja Academy. The very embodiment of Glimmora in human form.
Kai scratched his head and quipped, "Chairwoman, you really couldn't wait, huh?"
Geeta's smile was as composed as ever. "When it comes to recruiting Excellent Trainers, no matter how busy I am, I'll always make time for Paldea's future."
Kukui glanced between the two of them, a little confused. "Uh… Kai, this lovely lady is…?"
Before Kai could reply, Geeta placed her gloved right hand over her chest in greeting. "Hello, Professor Kukui from Alola. I am Geeta, Chairwoman of the Paldea Pokémon League, Top Champion, and chairwoman of this academy."
"!!!!!"
Kukui's eyes widened in shock. That was no ordinary title—this was huge. He turned to Kai, seeking confirmation.
Kai sighed and nodded. "You could say that Chairwoman Geeta is currently the strongest Trainer in Paldea, as well as its highest authority."
Geeta chuckled behind her hand. "Kai, no need to flatter me. You've already passed my Champion Assessment, defeated the Elite Four and me in a full six-on-six battle, and earned the title of Champion-ranked Trainer yourself."
Champion?!
Kukui's shock deepened. He had already suspected that Kai wasn't just some average Trainer, but this? He had surpassed the Elite Four and even bested the Top Champion?
Kai muttered under his breath, "Not like you were even going all out…"
Geeta, whose hearing was quite sharp, caught his comment easily. She maintained her innocent smile. "Hehe, but I was giving it my all! After all, I never hold back when it comes to Pokémon battles."
Kai deadpanned. "Oh? So that's why you kept your Glimmora at the back of your lineup?"
Kukui watched the exchange, then looked back and forth between them. Instead of a superior and subordinate, these two acted more like casual friends who bickered for fun.
Looks like Paldea is just as warm and welcoming as Alola. Even their leaders are approachable and down-to-earth.
After some brief small talk, Geeta cleared her throat, realizing she was getting sidetracked. Turning to Kukui, she spoke in a formal tone. "Let's get to the point. I won't beat around the bush—Professor Kukui, I have a proposal I'd like to discuss with you. Would you be willing to hear me out?"
Summoning the same composure he displayed under the spotlights of the Battle Rojal Dome, Kukui nodded. "Chairwoman Geeta, I'm all ears."
---
"I heard about your background from Kai. Alola, if I recall correctly, is a beautiful and prosperous tropical region, isn't it?"
Geeta narrowed her eyes, her gaze as mesmerizing and dangerous as a Glimmora in full bloom. The young Kukui found himself momentarily stunned.
Kai, fully aware of Geeta's intentions, remained expressionless but couldn't help thinking to himself, She's just like a Glimmora luring in prey. What a terrifying woman.
For some reason, Kukui felt a slight sense of tension rising within him. He stiffly nodded in response.
Seeing this, Geeta spread her "petals" further, continuing her persuasion. "As a Trainer, have you ever considered staying in one place to further your growth?"
"Take Paldea, for example. It boasts vast, thriving nature and is home to many powerful wild Pokémon. Trainers here, like Kai beside you, have the perfect environment to grow stronger. While it may not be as competitive as Galar, where battles are a national spectacle, Paldea offers a less high-pressure environment—one that I believe would suit you well for refining your skills."
"In short, Kukui, how about joining the Paldea League? Here, you could push your limits as a Trainer and let your talents shine even brighter."
By the end of her speech, Geeta's voice carried a tempting allure, striking at the heart of Kukui's lingering frustration from past defeats. He almost found himself agreeing to her proposal on impulse.
Kai, arms crossed, remained silent. The decision was Kukui's to make, and he had no intention of interfering.
The moment stretched in silence. Just as a confident smile crept onto Geeta's lips, Kukui finally spoke, his tone firm.
"Thank you for the offer, Chairwoman Geeta… but I must decline."
Geeta's expression flickered with surprise.
"For me, being a Trainer isn't my sole purpose. I have a greater dream to pursue. I want to make my homeland even better, to spread the excitement of Pokémon battles throughout Alola… and most of all, I want to establish a Pokémon League that belongs to Alola alone!"
"So, I'm sorry—I can't accept your invitation."
Kukui's gaze was unwavering, his voice resolute. It was clear that he had long since made up his mind.
Geeta was silent for a moment before shaking her head with a soft sigh. "I really am terrible at recruiting talent, aren't I?"
"Very well, Kukui. Your sincere answer leaves no room for argument. Your love for your region is no less than my own. If I were in your position and received an invitation from another League, I imagine I would respond the same way."
"I truly wish you success in achieving your dream."
With those words, a serene smile crossed Geeta's face as she turned to leave.
"Please wait!"
Kukui suddenly reached out, stopping her in her tracks. Hesitating for a moment, he asked, "I know this might be a bit bold of me to ask right now, but Chairwoman Geeta, would you be willing to have a Pokémon battle with me?"
"To be honest, after failing my challenge against Kanto's Elite Four, I traveled alone for a long time. Before I return to Alola, I want to test how much I've grown."
Geeta paused, then chuckled. "Unfortunately, I left in a hurry and didn't bring any Pokémon suitable for battle."
"I see…" Kukui lowered his head in disappointment.
"But…"
Geeta deliberately dragged out the word, her amused gaze shifting toward Kai. A chill ran down his spine.
"While I may not be able to battle, there's still a Champion-ranked Trainer right here who has defeated me before." She smiled knowingly. "Kukui, why don't you battle Kai instead? I'll even officiate as the referee."
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