A/N: I know I know I have been away a long time. Do not worry I have not given up on this story in any way just has been particularly busy this year. I hope this chapter is worth the wait for those of you still following along. If you feel inclined please leave a review or favorite.
The ferry gently rocked as it approached the dock of Sevii Island One, its engine humming softly while seagulls cried overhead. Kieran stood at the edge of the deck, eagerly watching as the picturesque island came into view. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the landscape. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, framing the small bustling port that was alive with activity.
As the ferry docked, Kieran could see the vibrant colors of the market stalls lining the port, the smell of fresh seafood and tropical fruits wafting through the air. The sounds of laughter, chatter, and the occasional cry of a Pokémon filled the atmosphere with a sense of excitement and adventure.
Stepping off the ferry, Kieran felt the wooden planks of the dock under his feet, slightly warm from the sun's rays. He took a deep breath, the salty sea air filling his lungs, and looked around, taking in the sights and sounds of the island.
Just then, a fellow passenger brushed past him, their face bright with anticipation. "Can't wait to see Mt. Ember," the passenger said to a companion, their voice filled with excitement. The mention of Mt. Ember, a well-known landmark of the Sevii Islands, known for its active volcano and a possibly rare Pokémon that inhabited its slopes, piqued Kieran's curiosity.
Kieran's gaze followed the direction of the passenger's pointing hand, catching a glimpse of the distant mountain, its peak just visible from his vantage point. The mountain stood majestic and formidable, a beacon of natural wonder and untold mysteries.
As the crowd from the ferry dispersed, Kieran found himself standing there for a moment longer, contemplating the many adventures that lay ahead. This first island, with its unique blend of natural beauty, bustling port life, and the allure of untamed wilderness called to hi.
Kieran made his way along Kindle Road towards the hot springs, his mind set on using them to unwind and clear his thoughts before venturing to Mt. Ember. The path was scenic, bordered by lush greenery, with occasional glimpses of the ocean's sparkling blue.
Arriving at the hot springs, he found the area to be a tranquil oasis, with several natural pools spread out across the landscape. Each spring was frequented by a few tourists, their expressions of relaxation and contentment echoing the area's serene vibe. Kieran found a relatively quiet spot and quickly changed into his swim attire, ready to experience the soothing warmth of the natural waters.
Stepping into the hot spring, Kieran immediately felt a wave of warmth envelop him. The heat seeped into his muscles, easing the tension and fatigue from his journey. Closing his eyes, he allowed the serene atmosphere to wash over him, the soft murmurs of other visitors blending with the natural sounds of the environment to create a harmonious backdrop.
The hot springs, with their therapeutic properties, offered not just physical relaxation but a mental respite as well. As he soaked, Kieran felt a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, his thoughts drifting away from the constant strategizing and planning that usually occupied his mind.
Lila's voice unexpectedly cut through Kieran's tranquil reverie, "Didn't anyone tell you how dangerous it is to sleep in hot springs?"
Kieran's eyes flickered open, initially feeling a bit annoyed. "I wasn't asleep," he retorted, somewhat defensively.
As his eyes adjusted to the light, he found Lila standing at the edge of the hot spring, clad in a bikini. He couldn't help but take in her appearance: she wore a simple yet elegant two-piece swimsuit that complemented her athletic build. The fabric was a vibrant shade of blue, almost mirroring the clear skies above them. Her chestnut hair was tied back in a practical ponytail, a few strands playfully escaping to frame her face.
Kieran's observation was more out of reflex than anything else, his trainer's mind always quick to note details. However, he didn't dwell on her appearance. Instead, he was more surprised to see her there, and a bit embarrassed to be caught off guard.
Lila, noticing Kieran's gaze, blushed slightly. Misinterpreting his look, she retorted in a slightly flustered tone, "What, are you following me now?"
"No, I just..." Kieran started, realizing how it must have looked. "I didn't expect to see you here," he added, trying to explain himself. He shifted his position in the water, still a bit surprised by the encounter and curious about what brought Lila to the Sevii Islands, and to these hot springs in particular.
Lila, settling into the hot spring on the opposite side from Kieran, couldn't hide her irritation. "The least you could have done was not stare," she said, her tone more biting than playful.
Kieran, feeling a bit annoyed by her accusation, responded with a touch of aloofness, his eyes still closed. "I would stare if there was something to stare at," he retorted, his voice tinged with irritation.
The air between them was charged, not with the light-hearted banter of friends but with the competitive tension often found between rivals. Lila, not one to back down easily, shot back, her tone laced with a hint of insult. "Came here to try and figure out a way to beat Paul before the Indigo League starts?"
Kieran's annoyance was evident. He understood that Paul, as the usual last gym leader for trainers seeking their eighth badge, was a formidable opponent. Lila's insinuation that he was here solely for strategic reasons, rather than for genuine relaxation, irked him. He opened his eyes, meeting her gaze across the water with a look that combined frustration and defiance.
Kieran's patience was wearing thin. "I already have all 8 badges I need, genius," he snapped back, his tone dripping with irritation.
Lila, undeterred, shot back with a challenging tone, "What, did Paul take it easy on you for being Ash's son?"
That comment struck a nerve. Kieran stood up abruptly, his face flushing with anger. "I earned that badge fair and square," he retorted, his voice rising. "Not one gym leader, not even my own mom, took it easy on me."
Lila, equally incensed, stood up to face him, mere inches apart. Her face was as red as his. "Last time I saw you, you barely could fight without my help," she countered fiercely, her eyes locked onto his.
Their heated exchange had drawn the attention of others around the hot spring. An older couple nearby, who had been quietly enjoying the soothing waters, glanced over at Kieran and Lila. The woman, with a knowing smile, nudged her companion and said loud enough for them to hear, "What a cute couple they are."
Kieran and Lila, faces still flush with frustration, turned to the older couple and exclaimed in unison, "You must be crazy!"
The woman, in her early forties with graying blonde hair, looked back at them with a calm, almost amused expression. Beside her, a man of similar age, with brown hair just beginning to gray at the temples, watched the scene with a gentle, patient smile. "I said the same thing about Ralph when we were growing up," she responded, her voice laced with fondness as she glanced at the man beside her.
Kieran and Lila, momentarily caught off guard by her remark, exchanged a brief, awkward look. The woman's comment and her composed demeanor seemed to cast their heated argument in a different light, injecting a touch of humor and perspective into the moment.
At the older couple's remark, Lila quickly retorted, her voice firm, "Well, I can say for sure I don't feel that way about him." There was a definitive edge to her tone, making it clear that she wanted no misunderstandings about her feelings.
Kieran, equally eager to set the record straight, chimed in almost instantly, "Ditto to that." His voice carried a mix of annoyance and agreement, reinforcing the message that any romantic implications were off the mark.
The older woman simply smiled, her expression untroubled by their protests. She gave a knowing nod, as if she had seen such denials many times before. Her husband, Ralph, maintained his gentle smile, clearly accustomed to his partner's insightful observations about people.
Kieran and Lila, having made their positions clear, could feel the last remnants of their argument fading away, replaced by a slightly awkward but less hostile atmosphere. Kieran, feeling ready to leave the springs, made his way out, his thoughts preoccupied with the strange encounter with the older couple. The idea of someone mistaking him and Lila for a couple seemed ludicrous to him, and he brooded over it as he walked. Their competitive relationship was far from anything romantic, and the suggestion had thrown him off balance.
Reaching the Pokémon Center near Mt. Ember, Kieran checked in with Nurse Joy. She greeted him with her usual warm smile and efficient manner, quickly taking care of his Pokémon. The Center was a comfortable, welcoming place, with the familiar soothing hum of the healing machines in the background.
After settling in, Kieran headed down to the food area for a much-needed meal. The dining area was brightly lit, with several tables spread out and a few trainers scattered around, enjoying their food and chatting. His eyes scanned the room and landed on Lila, who was already there, sitting alone at a table. Her hair was still up in a ponytail, and she seemed engrossed in her meal.
Feeling a lingering awkwardness from their earlier interaction, Kieran chose a table as far away from her as possible. He picked a spot in a quiet corner of the room, where he could have some space and avoid any unnecessary encounters. The table was small and modest, with a simple, clean setting. From his vantage point, he could see Lila, but they were far enough apart to be in their own separate worlds.
As he sat down, Kieran tried to shake off the lingering thoughts about the hot springs and the older couple's comments. He focused on his meal, letting the flavors and the routine of eating ground him back in the present moment. Despite his efforts, part of his mind was still aware of Lila's presence in the room.
Kieran retreated to his small room, feeling the need for a familiar voice after the day's events. He dialed his mom, Misty, on FaceTime, and the phone rang for a while before she appeared on the screen. Misty's hair was down, and she was wearing a robe, suggesting she was settling in for the night.
"Kieran, is everything okay?" Misty's voice carried a hint of concern, a slight urgency that Kieran initially missed.
Realizing the lateness of the hour, Kieran quickly reassured her, "Oh, mom, nothing's wrong. I just forgot to call earlier, and I wanted to talk if you have a moment."
Misty's expression softened, and though her gaze momentarily drifted off-screen, perhaps acknowledging someone else in the room or the late hour, she refocused her attention on Kieran. "I always have time for you, Kieran," she replied warmly, her maternal affection evident even through the screen.
Kieran relaxed, comforted by his mother's presence, even if only digitally. He recounted the exchange at the hot springs to his mom, detailing the awkward moment with Lila and the older couple's mistaken assumption about their relationship. As he spoke, Misty listened attentively, her expression reflecting a blend of amusement and motherly concern.
As Kieran's story came to a close, Misty, with a directness that took Kieran slightly aback, asked, "Do you like Lila that way, Kieran?"
Kieran raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised by the blunt question. "If I did, it probably wouldn't bother me this much," he replied, hinting at the complexity of his feelings.
Misty, maintaining a straight face, seemed to drift into her own memories for a moment. Perhaps she was recalling similar moments she had shared with Ash at Kieran's age. There was a knowing look in her eyes as she responded, "I was just checking. But it's worth noting that Lila has been somewhat ahead of you for most of your journey."
Kieran absorbed his mother's words, understanding that she wasn't just asking about his feelings for Lila, but also acknowledging the competitive dynamic that existed between them.
"Mum, it's not like I like Lila or anything," Kieran began, his tone a mix of defensiveness and introspection. "It's just... she's always one step ahead, and it's frustrating."
Misty nodded, understandingly. "It's natural to feel competitive, especially with someone who challenges you the way Lila does. But do you think there's more to it than just rivalry?"
Kieran paused, considering her words. "I don't know. We've always been competing, ever since we first met. It's like we're constantly trying to outdo each other."
Misty smiled gently. "Sometimes, feelings can be complicated. They're not always black and white, especially when you spend a lot of time with someone who pushes you to be your best."
Kieran let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I get that. But with Lila, it's always been about who's the better trainer. I've never really thought about her... that way."
"Kieran, it's okay to acknowledge if you do," Misty encouraged softly. "Admitting that someone gets under your skin isn't a weakness. It can actually help you understand yourself better."
Kieran looked down, his expression contemplative. "I guess part of me does respect her a lot. She's talented, determined, and she doesn't give up. I admire that about her."
Misty nodded. "Admiration is a powerful feeling. It can sometimes be mistaken for other emotions. Just don't let it cloud your judgment or your goals."
"Thanks, Mum," Kieran said, a small smile forming. "I think I needed to hear that. I've been so caught up in trying to beat her that I haven't really stopped to think about why it matters so much to me."
"It's all part of growing up and figuring out who you are," Misty replied, her voice filled with warmth and understanding. "And remember, your journey is about more than just winning badges or beating other trainers. It's about the experiences, the growth, and the friendships you make along the way."
Kieran expressed his gratitude to his mom, "Thanks, Mum. You always know what to say."
"I love you, Kieran. Remember that," Misty replied warmly, her voice filled with maternal affection.
The scene then transitioned to Misty's bedroom at the Cerulean Gym. Ash, looking somewhat grumpy in his pajamas, remarked with a hint of frustration, "Sometimes I wish his timing wouldn't always be at moments like this."
Misty rolled her eyes, unable to suppress an amused chuckle. "It's not his fault, hun," she said, her tone light and teasing.
Ash sighed, half-jokingly lamenting, "I just thought when he was on his journey this would stop happening."
Misty laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "Well, we could think of it like that," she said, pausing for a beat, "or get back on that Rapidash."
The next morning, Kieran woke up, completely oblivious to what he had interrupted the night before. He stretched, a new day dawning, ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead on his journey. The morning sun filtered through his window, casting a warm, inviting glow over his room. Kieran's thoughts were focused on the day ahead, filled with possibilities and the anticipation of his next steps towards the Indigo League.
Kieran set off for Mt. Ember with his team of Pokémon, ready for a day of intensive training. The mountain loomed large against the bright blue sky, its rugged slopes a tapestry of jagged rocks and sparse vegetation. The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of earth and wild grass.
Venasaur, his trusted companion, walked alongside him, its large, leafy form casting a protective shadow. The Paldean Tauros, a recent addition to his team, trotted ahead with a spirited gait, its sleek, water-adapted body shimmering slightly in the sunlight. Arcanine, majestic and powerful, moved with a graceful, fluid motion, its coat gleaming like burnished gold. Pidgeot soared overhead, its broad wings cutting through the air with ease, while Raticate scurried around, its whiskers twitching with curiosity. Beedrill buzzed around them, occasionally darting ahead to explore the path.
As they ascended the mountain, Kieran found several spots ideal for training. The first was a small clearing surrounded by boulders, providing a natural obstacle course. Here, he worked with Venasaur and Raticate, focusing on agility and precision in their movements. Venasaur practiced weaving through the rocks with Vine Whip, while Raticate darted in and out of the crevices, honing its speed and reflexes.
Further up, they came across a plateau with a stunning view of the ocean. The open space was perfect for Pidgeot and Beedrill to engage in aerial maneuvers. Kieran directed them through complex flight patterns, working on their coordination and endurance. Pidgeot's powerful wingbeats sent gusts of wind swirling around them, while Beedrill's rapid, zigzagging flight tested its agility to the limits.
Near the summit, they found a stream fed by a mountain spring, its waters cool and clear. Here, Kieran focused on training his Paldean Tauros. He encouraged the Tauros to wade into the water, practicing balance and resistance against the current. The Tauros pawed at the water, its muscles rippling under its sleek skin, adapting to the unfamiliar terrain with surprising dexterity.
Lastly, in a secluded spot shielded by high rocks, Kieran worked with Arcanine. He set up a series of mock battles, pushing Arcanine to unleash the full extent of its fiery power. The air crackled with heat as Arcanine executed a series of Flamethrower and Fire Blast attacks, each one more precise and controlled than the last.
As Kieran and his Pokémon continued their training on the slopes of Mt. Ember, their peaceful session was suddenly interrupted. A Graveler emerged from behind a cluster of rocks, its eyes gleaming with an arrogant confidence. With a deep, rumbling growl, it rolled aggressively towards Kieran and his team, kicking up dust and small pebbles in its wake.
Recognizing the wild Pokémon, Kieran prepared to call upon his Tauros for the confrontation. However, Beedrill buzzed forward, its wings vibrating with determination. It held up its arm, signaling to Kieran its desire to take on the Graveler. Understanding Beedrill's intent, Kieran nodded and gave the command, stepping back to give Beedrill space.
The battle began with Graveler lunging forward, its bulky, rock-encrusted body surprisingly quick. Beedrill darted nimbly in the air, maneuvering around Graveler's powerful attacks. Graveler unleashed a barrage of Rock Throws, but Beedrill weaved through the rocky onslaught with swift agility.
Kieran called out for a Poison Sting attack. Beedrill responded, diving towards Graveler and launching a volley of poisonous barbs. The barbs struck Graveler, but its rocky hide seemed to absorb much of the impact, only slightly slowing it down.
Graveler, growing more frustrated, attempted a Rollout, curling up and rolling rapidly towards Beedrill. Kieran's heart raced as he watched, calling for Beedrill to use Agility. Beedrill shot up into the air, narrowly evading the rolling Graveler, which crashed into a nearby rock, momentarily dazed.
Seizing the opportunity, Kieran commanded a decisive Twin Needle attack. Beedrill swooped down, striking Graveler with pinpoint accuracy. The force of the attack knocked Graveler off balance, and it teetered for a moment before toppling over, weakened but not fully defeated.
Kieran, sensing a rare opportunity, reached for a Pokeball. With a practiced motion, he threw it at the dazed Graveler. The ball hit its target, sucking the Graveler inside with a bright flash. Kieran and his Pokémon watched intently as the ball shook violently, the tension in the air palpable.
After what seemed like an eternity, the Pokeball finally clicked, signaling a successful capture. Kieran let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, a mix of excitement and relief washing over him. Beedrill buzzed around him, sharing in the triumph.
Kieran approached and picked up the Pokeball, feeling its weight in his hand. He had just captured a formidable opponent, a testament to his growing skills as a trainer.
As the excitement of capturing the Graveler settled in, Kieran felt a surge of pride and fulfillment. He exchanged a nod of satisfaction with Beedrill, acknowledging the teamwork and determination that led to this successful capture. His eyes brimmed with the anticipation of adding a powerful new member to his team.
With the Graveler now safely contained within its Pokeball, Kieran continued his ascent up Mt. Ember, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The capture had ignited a fire within him, fueling his ambition to push himself and his Pokémon to new heights. The familiar weight of the new Pokeball on his belt was a constant reminder of the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Reaching a wider plateau, Kieran decided to take a moment to regroup and give his Pokémon a well-deserved rest. As they relaxed, Kieran's gaze wandered to the breathtaking vista of the Sevii Islands spread below. The calm serenity of the scene was a stark contrast to the adrenaline-fueled battle they had just experienced.
In the distance, a plume of smoke billowed from a far-off area of the mountain, reminding Kieran of Mt. Ember's active volcanic nature. The sight was awe-inspiring, yet a gentle reminder of the untamed power of nature.
Kieran's thoughts were interrupted as the Pokeball containing Graveler began to shake violently. It opened, and the Graveler emerged, looking around with a dazed expression. Kieran approached cautiously, extending a hand in a gesture of friendship. To his surprise, the Graveler didn't recoil but instead regarded him curiously, a newfound respect in its eyes.
The moment was a testament to the unspoken bond between trainer and Pokémon – one built on mutual respect and understanding. Kieran knew that this Graveler would be a valuable addition to his team, offering not just strength and resilience but also a unique perspective gained from its time in the wild.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the plateau, Kieran and his Pokémon settled in for the night. They gathered around a small fire, sharing a quiet moment of reflection. Kieran couldn't help but feel grateful for the journey he was on, the experiences he was having, and the incredible Pokémon that were his companions and friends.
Kieran noticed the fire dwindling, he was about to get up to gather more wood when he heard rustling nearby. Turning his attention towards the sound, he saw an older man approaching the campsite. The man's skin was tanned, likely from many years under the sun, and he was dressed in rugged hiking clothes. In one hand, he carried a sturdy walking stick, and in the other, a bundle of firewood.
"Hello there," the man greeted with a friendly nod. "You wouldn't happen to have some water, would you? I can trade you some of this firewood for it."
Kieran, sensing the man's genuine need, quickly pulled out his water bottle and gestured for the man to sit down by the fire. "Sure, I have some water to spare," Kieran said, offering the bottle. "My name's Kieran."
The man gratefully accepted the water, taking a long, refreshing drink before introducing himself. "Much appreciated, Kieran. I'm Gregorio Ember," he said, setting down the firewood beside the dwindling flames.
Kieran's interest was piqued by the man's surname, which seemed fitting for someone he met on Mt. Ember. "Ember, like the mountain?" Kieran asked curiously.
Gregorio chuckled softly, his eyes reflecting the fire's glow. "Yes, indeed. My family has been living around these parts for generations. This mountain is like a part of our identity," he explained with a hint of pride in his voice.
As Gregorio skillfully added the new wood to the fire, the flames crackled back to life, casting a warm and inviting light around them. Gregorio settled comfortably across from Kieran, his eyes twinkling with the wisdom of years spent in the embrace of nature.
"You know, this mountain has many stories to tell. If you're willing to listen, the wind, the rocks, even the fire has something to say," Gregorio said, his voice rich with experience.
Kieran, intrigued by the man's words, leaned in, eager to hear more. The night air was cool, but the fire's warmth, coupled with the chance to learn from someone so deeply connected to the land, created a perfect atmosphere for sharing tales and wisdom.
As the hours passed, Gregorio shared stories of Mt. Ember's past, tales of explorers and Pokémon that roamed these lands long ago. He spoke of the mountain's temperamental nature, its eruptions, and how they shaped the island over time.
Kieran listened intently, absorbing every word. The stories painted a vivid picture of the mountain's history, adding depth to his understanding of the place he had come to train. Gregorio's knowledge of the local Pokémon, their habitats, and behaviors was particularly fascinating, offering Kieran valuable insights for his journey.
Kieran awoke the next morning to the soft chirping of Pidgeot nearby, expecting to see Gregorio still by the fireside. However, to his surprise, there was no sign of the man. The spot where Gregorio had sat was undisturbed, with no boot prints or any other trace of his presence. It was almost as if the man had vanished as mysteriously as he had appeared.
Puzzled, Kieran packed up his camp and made his way back to the Pokémon Center. The encounter with Gregorio had left a lasting impression on him, and he felt a need to learn more about this enigmatic figure.
Upon reaching the Pokémon Center, Kieran approached Nurse Joy at the counter. "Excuse me, Nurse Joy," he began, "have you seen a man named Gregorio around here? Older guy, tan skin, gray hair, walks with a stick?"
Nurse Joy paused, thinking carefully. "Can you describe him a bit more?" she asked.
Kieran described Gregorio in detail, mentioning his rugged hiking clothes and the bundle of firewood he had carried. He watched Nurse Joy's face for any sign of recognition, but her expression remained puzzled.
"I'm sorry, Kieran," Nurse Joy finally said, "but I don't know anyone by that description. We do get a lot of hikers and travelers here, but no one named Gregorio comes to mind."
Kieran was taken aback by her response. The encounter with Gregorio had felt so real, so vivid. He thanked Nurse Joy and stepped away from the counter, his mind swirling with questions. Who was Gregorio Ember? Was he just a figment of his imagination, or perhaps a secretive resident of the mountain known only to a few?
The next day, Kieran continued his quest for answers about the mysterious Gregorio. As he asked each local about Gregorio, he ran into Lila, who couldn't resist teasing him about his encounter.
"You're not starting to see things on your journey now, are you?" Lila asked with a playful smirk.
Kieran, unamused by her jest, shot her a nonplussed look. "Very funny, Lila," he replied dryly. "But I'm serious about this."
Despite Lila's teasing, Kieran was undeterred. He spent the day asking locals if they knew of Gregorio Ember, describing the man in detail. He hoped that someone might recognize the description and provide some clue to his identity.
However, his efforts led only to more confusion and apologies. The locals he spoke with were friendly and willing to help, but none of them recognized the name or description of Gregorio. Some suggested he might be a traveler just passing through, while others wondered if Kieran might have dreamed the whole encounter.
Disappointed but not entirely discouraged, Kieran realized that the mystery of Gregorio Ember might remain unsolved for now. He couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to the story, but without any leads, he knew he had to focus on his training and upcoming challenges.
As he returned to his lodging for the night, Kieran reflected on the experience. The encounter with Gregorio, whether real or imagined, had given him a unique perspective and deepened his connection to Mt. Ember.
As Kieran turned to leave, feeling a mix of intrigue and frustration from his fruitless search, an older woman's voice called out to him. "Excuse me, young man, did that man you're asking about ask for water?" Her eyes held a knowing glint, piquing Kieran's curiosity.
"Yes, he did," Kieran responded, turning to face her. The woman appeared to be in her sixties, with a gentle smile and eyes that sparkled with a mix of wisdom and mystery.
She nodded slowly, a faint smile on her lips. "Don't worry, kid, he'll be fine," she said in a reassuring tone.
Kieran's interest was piqued. "But you've seen Gregorio?" he asked, eager for any information.
The woman's smile widened slightly. "Yes, I did, when I was just slightly older than you. It was up on Mt. Ember." She paused, as if lost in a distant memory.
Kieran waited for her to continue, but she seemed to drift into her thoughts. Sensing that she might not share more, he prompted, "Is there anything else you can tell me about him?"
The woman seemed to snap back to the present. "All I can say is, take his wisdom with you on your journey," she advised softly, her tone suggesting a deeper understanding of the encounter than she let on.
Kieran sensed that there was more to her story, perhaps secrets about Gregorio that she chose not to reveal. He wondered if Gregorio was more than just an ordinary man.
"Thank you," Kieran said, respecting her decision to keep the full story to herself. He realized that some mysteries might remain unsolved, adding to the rich tapestry of his Pokémon journey.
As he walked away, Kieran reflected on the woman's words. The encounter with Gregorio, had given him something valuable—a piece of wisdom to carry with him. It was another reminder that his journey was about more than just battles and achievements; it was also about the unexpected encounters and the lessons they brought.