The stars were beginning to emerge over Dawn Valley, a quiet silver dusting across the deepening sky. Inside the modest ranch house, Kai stood by the window, arms crossed, watching his Pokémon unwind after a day of training.
Chimchar was curled up on the windowsill, already dozing. The two Charcadet were sprawled out on the floor, helmets beside them, softly snoring. In the distance, he could see Iron Thorns standing silently under the sycamore tree, watching over the valley like a sentry.
Kai exhaled slowly, his brow furrowed.
He hadn't left Dawn Valley in months — not for more than a quick trip to the nearby town. Leaving for Kanto, even for a short while, was no small decision. This ranch was more than just land and fences — it was home to his Pokémon family. And they relied on him.
"I can't just leave them alone…" he muttered to himself.
He walked over to his desk and tapped the communicator again, this time opening a call channel to the Paldean Champions' Headquarters. After a few seconds, Geeta's face appeared on the screen, elegant as always, seated in her office.
"Kai," she said with a surprised but pleasant smile. "Didn't expect to hear from you so soon. Everything alright?"
Kai nodded. "Mostly. I got a call from Professor Oak. He's asked me to come to Pallet Town… to study Iron Thorns."
"I see." Geeta leaned forward, fingers laced. "That's a rare invitation. I'm guessing you're going?"
"I plan to," Kai said. "But I have a problem. I can't leave the ranch unattended — not with all the Pokémon here."
Geeta considered for a moment. "You don't trust the automated systems?"
"They're fine for a day or two," Kai replied. "But if anything happens — a wild Pokémon, weather, training accidents — they'll need more than sensors and alarms. I think... it might be time to recruit someone or something."
"You're thinking of Pokémon helpers?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Kai nodded. "Some species are naturally good with chores. Herd management. Berry harvesting. Even basic guarding."
Geeta smiled. "Practical as always."
"I just wanted your opinion," Kai added. "You've seen a lot more of Paldea than I have. Any Pokémon come to mind that are reliable and good around other species?"
She paused thoughtfully, then replied, "Actually... yes. A well-trained Maushold can manage domestic tasks better than some people. And Lechonk or Oinkologne are excellent for berry farms. Even a Farigiraf could help if you're looking for something protective and intuitive."
Kai absorbed the list silently, then said, "Thank you."
"Need help finding them?" she asked.
"No," Kai said. "I'll handle it."
Geeta chuckled lightly. "Of course you will."
She leaned back, then added, "I'm glad you're taking this step, Kai. For someone who's always stayed in the shadows, you're slowly letting the world in."
Kai gave a small smirk. "One helper Pokémon at a time."
"I hope to see you back in Paldea soon," she said. "Good luck in Kanto. And if you need anything... just ask."
The call ended.
Kai turned toward the sleeping Pokémon once more, a plan already forming in his mind. Before he left for Kanto, he'd visit the nearby wilds — perhaps the South Province — and look for his first helper.
Because Dawn Valley wasn't just a ranch anymore.
It was a sanctuary. And it needed its own guardians.