As the sun sank in the west, Cynthia and Kaim stood on the pier.
"Are you heading home already?"
Dazuro asked the two of them, his arms folded. They had only stayed half a day, but it had been a wonderful one. Both Cynthia and Kaim felt that way, and they would have liked to stay a little longer if they could.
However, their stay in the Hoenn Region ended today. They could not stay any longer, since they were returning to the Sinnoh Region tomorrow.
"Yes, we're returning to the Sinnoh Region tomorrow."
"I see. I would have liked to battle you too, if we'd had the chance."
"Me too. You know, Kaim."
Kaim did not answer. He simply looked at Dasura.
"Damn."
"Thank you."
"What for? Give it your best, Gym Leader."
"Mr. Dasura."
"Yes?"
"Would you battle me someday?"
Kaim's words startled Dazura, but he immediately smiled and nodded.
"Of course. Next time, let me see what you're made of."
As he spoke, Dasura patted Kaim's shoulder. Kaim's expression did not change, but inwardly he was delighted. During his university days, he had rarely battled, and sometimes he had even felt he was not worth watching. That was why the self-effacing Kaim had thought he was not worthy of battling Dasura.
"Thank you."
"No need to say it. Leave it to me!"
With a hearty laugh, Dasura smacked the back of Kaim's head.
"Yes!"
"Let's find another chance to meet."
"Sure."
"Hey, Kogumi. How long are you going to sulk?"
She looked rather glum, and he wondered whether she still had regrets about Daro's side.
"It's frustrating! I gave it everything I had and still couldn't win, just like with Mr. Steven!"
"Ha ha, I came pretty close too."
"But a loss is a loss! It's so