"Carmine! Mind your manners!"
The caretaker scolded her.
Baimu quietly studied the girl who had come running over.
She looked about high-school age, with a pretty face, rosy lips, and white teeth. A beauty mark beneath her eye made her all the more striking.
But...
She didn't look like Cha Biao.
At most, there was a slight resemblance.
"...Champion?" Carmine saw Baimu studying her with a cool gaze, and her initial excitement gradually faded. Sweat beaded at her temple.
There seemed to be something intimidating about his gaze.
Fortunately, her racing heart settled after a moment. Once Baimu looked away, she could breathe again, and she pressed a hand to her chest.
Baimu said to the caretaker, "Thank you for showing me the way."
"Enjoy your time in Kitakami. It's a warm place, Mr. Champion," the caretaker said with a chuckle.
His smile bore some resemblance to Boro's.
Baimu walked toward Carmine, who stood by the door, and smiled at her despite her nervousness. "Come on! Let's battle!"
"Huh? Oh, okay!"
Carmine had expected a rebuke. Only when she saw his smile and took in his words did her anticipation return.
The two left the Community Center. Outside stood a boy whose hairstyle was much like Carmine's.
He looked about middle-school age and seemed rather timid.
"Kiki!"
Carmine called out, then introduced him to Baimu. "This is my little brother, Kieran."
Kieran turned around. The instant he saw Baimu, he ducked behind his sister, cautiously peeking out at him as he murmured, "He's so cool..."
Even holding a Meowth, he was still cool!
"..."
Baimu looked amused and greeted him. "Hi, I'm Baimu."
"H-hello."
Kieran answered awkwardly.
The three headed to a nearby open space so their battle wouldn't damage the roadside fixtures or plants.
As Baimu moved to the