The night sky stretched endlessly, with the moon hanging high like a guardian over the peaceful land. The river shimmered under the celestial glow, its surface reflecting the starlight as if mirroring the vast cosmos above.
Aoki and Cynthia sat quietly under the moonlight, taking in the tranquility of the scene.
"It's been a while since I've had time to enjoy such a peaceful night," Cynthia murmured, gazing at the luminous sky with a soft expression.
"Yeah," Aoki agreed, nodding slightly. "It's always training, battles, or research—never much time to just rest and take it all in."
The two leaned against the sturdy trunk of a tree, watching their Pokémon lying in a neat row nearby. Aoki's Pokémon, including Boss Lairon and Frogadier, rested to his left, while Cynthia's Pokémon, led by her loyal Garchomp, were on her right.
Rare moments like this, where training and battles were set aside for a peaceful night under the stars, were few and far between.
After a while, Aoki stretched and stood up. "By the way, I have some fresh Miltank milk and some quality berries with me. I'm thinking of making some ice cream—it suddenly sounds really good."
Of course, Aoki's intent wasn't just about ice cream. He knew that Cynthia had a weakness for sweets, especially ice cream, as mentioned in past interviews he had read about her. This was the perfect opportunity to win some favor.
"Ice cream?" Cynthia's golden eyes sparkled with excitement. "I didn't know you could make it. That sounds amazing!"
Seeing her reaction, Aoki smirked. "Trust me, the ice cream I make is top-notch."
Pulling out his portable cooking kit, Aoki began preparing the dessert with expert hands. The rich aroma of fresh berries and creamy Miltank milk filled the air, making Cynthia's anticipation grow.
As she watched Aoki work, she found herself studying his focused expression. There was something different about him—something that set him apart from most people she had met. He wasn't just strong; he was calm, capable, and had an easygoing confidence that made people feel at ease.
Of course, it wasn't love, but… there was definitely something interesting about him.
After a while, Aoki handed Cynthia a neatly prepared strawberry ice cream in a makeshift cup. "Here, try it."
"Thank you!" Cynthia took the treat eagerly and took a small bite.
The moment the ice cream melted on her tongue, she froze. Then, her face lit up with pure joy. "This is… amazing!"
The cold sweetness of the berries combined with the smooth richness of the Miltank milk created a flavor more delicious than anything she had tasted in a long time.
Aoki chuckled. "Glad you like it. If you ever want more, just find me."
Cynthia looked at him again, this time with a different gaze. Strong, confident, intelligent, and… an excellent cook? She had to admit, Aoki was starting to catch her interest in an unexpected way.
Not far away, Garchomp and the other Pokémon exchanged knowing glances. If these two ended up together, they would get to enjoy delicious food more often. That alone was a good reason to support this pairing.
After finishing her ice cream, Cynthia realized that the mood was becoming a little too relaxed for her liking. She quickly stood up, brushing off her thoughts. "It's getting late. We should get some rest."
She turned away swiftly, hoping Aoki wouldn't notice the slight pink tint on her cheeks.
Aoki simply smiled, packed up, and returned to his tent.
Outside, Garchomp and Boss Lairon remained on guard, ensuring the safety of their Trainers. Wild Pokémon weren't the real concern—it was potential Pokémon hunters or other dangers that lurked in the shadows.
As the night deepened, a cool breeze swept through the forest. Both Aoki and Cynthia were tucked into their sleeping bags inside their respective tents, lost in deep sleep.
However, just before dawn, Cynthia stirred awake. Her mind was still foggy from sleep, and she instinctively left her tent, making her way toward the nearby woods.
Coincidentally, Aoki woke up at the same time and, still half-asleep, also headed toward the same wooded area.
Garchomp, watching them both walk off at the same time, let out a quiet chuckle.
Boss Lairon looked confused. What's so funny?
Garchomp simply shook its head, amused by the situation.
Deeper in the woods, Cynthia was crouching near a tree when she suddenly sensed another presence.
She turned—and froze.
Aoki stood there, equally stunned.
The moonlight illuminated the area well enough that the two could see each other clearly. For a few seconds, neither of them spoke.
Then, realization hit Cynthia.
Her face turned crimson as she instinctively reached for Garchomp's Poké Ball. "Garchomp—"
Before she could finish, Aoki quickly waved his hands. "Wait! This is just a coincidence! I had no idea you were here!"
If Garchomp attacked him now, not even Boss Lairon might be able to stop it.
Garchomp, however, didn't move. It just smirked knowingly, as if thoroughly enjoying the situation.
Cynthia paused, realizing that Aoki was telling the truth. He had no way of knowing she would be here.
Still…
This was so embarrassing.
Hiding behind a tree, she pointed toward the camp. "Just go back. Now!"
"Right! Sorry! And… I didn't see anything!" Aoki said quickly.
Of course, he really hadn't seen anything inappropriate—but saying it out loud just made it worse.
Cynthia's face burned even more. "GO BACK NOW!" she yelled, loud enough that the entire forest probably heard her.
Aoki didn't need to be told twice. He bolted back to his tent without looking back.
Cynthia covered her face, feeling utterly mortified. How did this even happen?!
A moment later, she returned to the camp, still flustered.
Garchomp was waiting for her with an amused look.
"You saw everything, didn't you?" Cynthia said, crossing her arms.
Garchomp shrugged playfully, clearly enjoying itself.
Cynthia's glare darkened. "You could have stopped it, but you didn't, did you?"
Garchomp smirked again. It wasn't going to deny it.
Cynthia sighed in defeat, rubbing her temples. It was going to be so awkward facing Aoki in the morning.
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