Sootopolis City.
A tranquil island beneath a clear sky.
Though he had promised to return once he had taken care of everything necessary, Baimu felt inexplicably hesitant when he arrived near the Sootopolis Gym again.
Why?
After some thought, he decided it was because his time at the Sootopolis Gym had consisted entirely of taking, with no contribution or repayment on his part.
Faced with Juan and Wallace's boundless generosity and goodwill, his conscience was getting the better of him.
Before he could dwell on it any longer, Old Butler Sebastian appeared silently behind him as if he had teleported there. Bowing, he said:
"Welcome back, Mr. Baimu. Would you like me to prepare some hot water so you can wash away the dust of your travels?"
"Grandpa Butler!"
Baimu jumped, then broke into a smile. He took a small box from his backpack and offered it with both hands. "It's been a while. Sorry to trouble you again. I brought this back from Kalos. It's just a little something."
"A souvenir?"
Old Butler raised his eyelids slightly and accepted the box. "Hohoho... To think you remembered these old bones. I'm deeply honored."
"You've taken such good care of me. I'm truly grateful."
Baimu continued softly, "I brought a few things for Teacher Juan and the others, too. Are they all inside?"
Old Butler nodded. "They are... I'd be delighted to accept your kindness. Thank you very much."
"Not at all."
With that, Baimu had no reason to hesitate anymore and let himself be ushered back into the Gym.
Everything was as usual.
In the garden, Juan had created a giant floating sphere of water to train the Water-type Pokémon for the monthly Sootopolis celebration performance commissioned by the mayor.
Wallace was welcoming a new challenger in the Battle Arena.