The morning was much like any other. Even so, Kaim's expression had not changed. His complexion was just as awful as it had been yesterday.
"Kaim, are you all right?"
"...Yeah."
Kaim tried his best to answer calmly when Cynthia asked in concern, but he was clearly unwell. There was no hiding the exhaustion in his voice.
"Take today off. Once you've washed up, get some rest."
"Are you sure you're okay? Why don't you let me take care of that?"
"Can I leave it to you? I-"
Before he could finish saying, "I'll finish drinking this," Kaim's hand slipped, and the cup fell. Fortunately, Blaziken, who was nearby, caught it before it hit the floor, saving it from shattering. In all Cynthia's experience, though, Kaim had never dropped a dish. However she looked at it, he had reached his limit.
"See? This isn't good, is it?"
"Yeah. Looks like I'm more useless than I thought."
"Then be good and get some sleep."
With that, Cynthia took Kaim's hand and led him toward the bedroom. After changing his clothes, she settled him on the futon.
Watching his Pokémon look on anxiously, Kaim gave a helpless smile.
"Sorry for worrying you. You'll be better soon."
"Get some rest for now. I'll do as much of the housework as I can."
"Sorry."
"It's all right. Good night."
Cynthia kissed Kaim, then left the bedroom.
Watching her go, Kaim took a deep breath and turned his attention to his Pokémon.
"Sorry. I don't think I'll look very cool in this sweatshirt."
Then Kaim turned his attention to Lucario.
"Lucario, please help Cynthia. If she's on her own, a burglary might turn into something surprising."
Lucario nodded and left the bedroom to join Cynthia. The remaining Pokémon went to help her as well, doing