The sudden Gyarados attack had left many injured. While most suffered only minor wounds, a few were seriously hurt. Nearby hospitals mobilized their staff, clearing space to accommodate the influx of patients.
Search and rescue teams scoured the ocean for surfers and anglers caught in the initial onslaught. But given the sheer force of those waves, the chances of finding survivors were slim—only the luckiest might be pulled from the water before drowning.
The rescue operation proceeded with practiced efficiency. Clearly, these teams were no strangers to such incidents. Wild Pokémon attacks were far from rare in this world—in fact, they were practically routine. Most caused minimal casualties, but a Gyarados of this caliber emerging from the deep was an anomaly.
Police took statements from witnesses. As the central figure, Ryuuske naturally faced questioning. But after reviewing footage of Dragonair battling the Gyarados—captured by onlookers—the officers' expressions shifted. Their gazes held a mix of reverence and fear, especially when confronted with the 100-meter crater on the beach and the lightning that had lit up Fuchsia City's skyline.
These officers were just doing their jobs. Against a trainer of Ryuuske's caliber, they dared not overstep. After routine inquiries, they left promptly. No one even broached the topic of property damage—not when Ryuuske had saved thousands. If anything, Fuchsia City should award him a Medal of Honor.
Once the dust settled, statistics emerged. Thanks to Ryuuske's swift intervention, casualties were minimal. Several trainers stepped forward to express gratitude on behalf of the crowd. After the formalities, Ryuuske finally found a moment to breathe.
As for the Gyarados? No one dared demand "justice." A captured Pokémon belonged solely to its trainer. Human laws governed humans—not Pokémon. And given how past civilizations had fallen, the elite knew better than to enact legislation threatening Pokémon.
This was a lesson humanity had learned the hard way.
---
"Sorry about earlier. Got sidetracked."
At an upscale restaurant, Ryuuske smiled across the table at Professor Birch.
"No, no! You had obligations. As the hero who saved so many, you deserved every bit of praise. If anything, I'm embarrassed that all I can offer is a meal as thanks."
Professor Birch waved off the apology cheerfully. His upbeat demeanor reminded Ryuuske strongly of Professor Oak.
Learning that Birch had once been Oak's student instantly bridged the gap between them. When invited to dine, Ryuuske—no stranger to social graces—readily accepted.
"Hero...?"
Ryuuske chuckled dryly. He hardly saw himself as one. As he'd said, he'd merely stumbled upon the rampaging Gyarados and dealt with it. Saving people? That hadn't even crossed his mind.
"Sapphire, thank Ryuuske properly."
Birch nudged his daughter gently.
"Really, it's not necessa—"
Before he could finish, Sapphire stood, smoothing her dress before bowing deeply.
"...Thank you for saving me, Big Brother."
Professor Birch's parenting clearly deserved applause. Well-mannered, adorable, and nothing like a brat—Ryuuske couldn't help but like her.
Ironically, the younger girls he met—like Yellow and now Sapphire—were far more mature than their older counterparts, who seemed to specialize in creating headaches.
"Professor, even if you couldn't give Sapphire a Pokémon for protection, you should've left yours with her. Letting a little girl stand alone in a crowd? That's just asking for trouble."
Rather than take offense at the criticism from someone barely older than his daughter, Birch laughed sheepishly.
"...My mistake. I never imagined something would happen in such a short time. Thank goodness you were there—I wouldn't know how to face her mother otherwise."
He exhaled in relief.
Sapphire opened her mouth as if to interject but held back.
Given Birch's average looks, Ryuuske guessed Sapphire's adorable features came from her mother. In this world, being a trainer or Pokémon researcher certainly had perks—finding a beautiful spouse apparently being one of them.
"What's next for you, Professor?"
"Originally, I planned to study the Fuchsia Safari Zone. But after this, I think we'll return to Hoenn tomorrow."
"I'm heading to Cinnabar Island myself. Consider this meal your thanks—no need for further gratitude. I've got urgent business there, so I'll leave right after eating."
As Ryuuske enjoyed his food, Eevee nibbled from a bowl beside him. He'd also prepared portions for Dragonair and Gabite, though the restaurant wasn't ideal for their size.
"Then I won't keep you. But if you ever visit Hoenn, come to Littleroot Town. I'll show you proper hospitality."
Birch spoke without pretension.
"Count on it. I'll definitely visit Hoenn someday—don't mind me dropping by unannounced."
"And Sapphire—be more careful from now on. Next time, I might not be around to save you."
Ryuuske flicked her forehead lightly with a grin.
A quiet girl like her should stick to research.
"Ow—!"
Sapphire rubbed her reddened forehead, cheeks flushing as she looked down.
With Blaine awaiting him, Ryuuske didn't linger. After the meal, he bid farewell, setting off for Cinnabar Island.
Only once his figure vanished did Sapphire finally speak.
"...Dad."
"Hmm?"
Birch patted her head affectionately.
"I don't want to be weak anymore. I don't want to just cry when danger comes. I want strength—to protect myself... and others!"
Her voice was firm, her expression resolute—words and tones the old Sapphire would never have used.
Birch stared at his daughter, emotions swirling.
So she's chosen this path after all?
As a father, he was proud. Yet worry lingered. He hoped this wasn't just a fleeting impulse sparked by Ryuuske's power—that she'd truly commit. All he could do was support her decision.
The road of a trainer was walked alone. No one could walk it for her.
To be continued…
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