In another ten years, earning the title of T2 professional Pokémon Trainer at twenty-seven would already be a pretty good achievement for Xiao Ming, but could Principal Gui really wait that long in his condition?
"If I don't manage to come back with results in time, please help Pokémon High School too." Xiao Ming looked earnestly at Shen Qi. "You're much better than me."
"Not at all. I just got an earlier start. I'm nothing special out there." Shen Qi nodded in agreement. "Even after I graduate, I won't leave Island 6 completely. I'll go back to live there."
Competing away from home, tiring himself out traveling, then returning to Island 6 every so often to recuperate-that was the most comfortable rhythm of life Shen Qi could imagine.
If Pokémon High School needed anything in the future, Shen Qi would naturally consider it his duty to help, contributing money if he had it, or his efforts if he didn't.
"You don't need to ask me specifically about that. Take care of yourself in the Other Region."
"Yeah. I'm off."
The freighter wouldn't depart that soon, but Xiao Ming needed to find the captain who knew Baoba and have a proper conversation, so he had to leave himself some time.
After another look at Shen Qi, then Vermilion Harbor, Xiao Ming tightened his grip on the backpack strap over his shoulder and quickened his steps.
"Chansey..."
Chansey had met Xiao Ming with Shen Qi in Doll Town and knew his circumstances.
In terms of their time together, Xiao Ming and Shen Qi hadn't played or chatted all that often, yet their parting still carried a sense of deep affection and loyalty.
"Let's get going too."
They set off along the usual Route 6 into Saffron City.
Shen Qi surveyed the surrounding