"Although I don't know why you're fighting so relentlessly, you still need to consider the condition of your Pokémon and your own well-being," Aoki said.
Cynthia paused for a moment, then nodded. She might not prioritize her own health, but her Pokémon's care was non-negotiable.
"Thank you," Cynthia replied.
"That settles it. Your Pokémon need at least a week of rest, and you shouldn't engage in battles during this time. You're welcome to stay in Verdanturf Town—the Pokémon Center or the Verdanturf Gym can provide free lodging," Aoki offered.
"Actually, do you know Steven?" Cynthia asked.
"Steven? If you mean Steven Stone, then yes, I'm familiar with him."
"Could you tell me where he is?"
Aoki gave Cynthia a curious look. Was there some connection between her and Steven? He'd never heard of any special relationship between the two.
Unconsciously, a mischievous grin crept onto Aoki's face, as if he'd stumbled upon the world's best-kept secret.
He was wrong, of course. Cynthia noticed his expression and rolled her eyes.
"Rumors in Hoenn say the two of you are the region's brightest stars. One reason I came here was to challenge both of you. I tried finding Steven first, but he wasn't in Rustboro City. His associates didn't know his whereabouts, so I came to Verdanturf to challenge you instead." This was the longest sentence Cynthia had spoken since her arrival.
She continued, "Your strength far exceeds what I expected. You truly live up to the title of Hoenn's star. I'd heard you were an exceptional Breeder, but I didn't believe it—until I saw how you treated my Garchomp. Aoki, you're formidable. I'd love to have a full six-on-six battle with you someday." Her voice carried genuine admiration.
At the mention of a full battle, her excitement was palpable.
Aoki flushed.
Ma'am, what you've seen is my strongest Pokémon. A full battle would only disappoint you—save that enthusiasm for Steven.
Meanwhile, Steven, training elsewhere, sneezed abruptly.
Aoki coughed awkwardly. "Uh, well… let's leave the full battle to Steven. He's far stronger than I am."
Hearing that Steven surpassed Aoki only deepened Cynthia's interest.
"I'll message him now and ask him to return early. He can meet you here. Until then, stay in Verdanturf. I can monitor your Pokémon's recovery," Aoki added, deftly steering her away from challenging him.
When he'd examined Garchomp earlier, his system had already compiled exhaustive data on it. Now, Aoki could confidently say no one understood that Garchomp better than he did.
If Cynthia entrusted her other Pokémon to him, he'd gather equally detailed profiles. It might not be immediately useful, but the information could prove invaluable later.
This aligned perfectly with Cynthia's thoughts. She'd wanted to ask Aoki to check her other Pokémon but hesitated due to their unfamiliarity. Now, relieved, she agreed without reservation.
Her trust in Aoki was absolute—whether due to his skill in healing Garchomp, his position as Verdanturf's Gym Leader, or his reputation as one of Hoenn's stars.
She placed five Poké Balls on the table and handed them to Aoki. These five, alongside Garchomp, comprised her current team.
Aoki accepted them calmly and released all five.
Spiritomb, Gastrodon, Roserade, Milotic, and Lucario—alongside Garchomp—formed Cynthia's battle-ready roster.
Studying them, Aoki couldn't help but feel envy.
Outstanding. Absolutely elite-tier.
A full battle between Steven and Cynthia would be a spectacle.
After briefing her Pokémon, Cynthia left without hesitation. She'd stay at Verdanturf's Pokémon Center, visiting daily to check on her team while awaiting Steven's arrival.
As Aoki assisted their recovery, he discreetly recorded their data. If he ever trained these species himself, Cynthia's methods would serve as an excellent reference. Even for different Pokémon, the principles could apply.
But one development surprised him: Cynthia's Lucario.
The moment it saw Aoki, Lucario took an instant liking to him—drawn by an inexplicable aura. Cynthia, amused, felt a flicker of jealousy. She'd expended great effort to earn Lucario's loyalty, yet it bonded with Aoki instantly.
Cynthia was certain Aoki didn't possess Aura abilities—otherwise, she'd suspect he was an Aura Guardian.
Aoki, however, understood. The Lucario on Neverland had blessed him with Aura resonance. Given this Lucario's reaction, Aoki would likely harmonize well with any Aura-sensitive Pokémon.
During this period, Aoki didn't neglect his own team's training. The extended downtime allowed him to implement rigorous, systematic drills. Their strength had surged on Neverland, but without refinement, they couldn't wield it effectively. Consolidating their foundation was the priority.
Meanwhile, Cynthia grew increasingly impressed by Aoki's diligence.
Truly a genius. Though no overt power boosts occurred, the subtle improvements in her Pokémon's physique and demeanor were undeniable.
She felt fortunate to have met Aoki. Had she continued her reckless battles, the accumulated strain might have permanently damaged her team's potential.
Then, two pieces of good news arrived:
Aoki's system finally completed its recovery.
And Steven was on his way back.