Pokemon: A New Path-Fireworks (End of the Volume)[483]

Early in the morning, as Naoki made his way to Kosaji Town to buy groceries, he noticed a lively scene unfolding. People and Pokémon were bustling about, carrying stalls and fireworks toward the beach in preparation for the evening’s festival.

Walking down the vibrant streets with Cyclizar by his side, Naoki found that Kosaji Town was livelier than usual.

Colorful banners promoting the fireworks display adorned the shopfronts, fluttering in the breeze.

Trainers, families, and Pokémon of all kinds filled the streets, chatting and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

"Looks like tonight is going to be amazing!" Naoki murmured, feeling a sense of excitement build within him.

Beside him, Cyclizar picked up on his enthusiasm and let out a cheerful cry. "Gaao!"

After gathering his groceries, Naoki returned to the ranch, where he shared news of the festival with the Pokémon.

Hearing that another fireworks display was happening, Pawmot and the others erupted in excitement.

Ogerpon, in particular, recalled last year’s festival with a nostalgic gleam in her eyes—the mesmerizing sight of fireworks painting the night sky had left a lasting impression.

"Pon!" Ogerpon cheered, determined to participate again this year.

Just then, Cyclizar scurried into the room, rummaging through a pile of items before pulling out a well-worn ball. It placed the ball in front of Naoki, gazing up at him expectantly.

"Alright, alright, I get it," Naoki chuckled, patting Cyclizar's head. "I’ll play ball with you later."

Nearby, Koraidon snorted in clear disapproval. Playing with a ball? How childish.

While speaking, Naoki glanced around, only to realize that Eeveelutions were nowhere in sight.

No doubt, those playful little rascals have run off to the World Tree again.

He sighed and pulled out his phone, dialing a video call to Mewtwo.

After a moment, the screen lit up with the small, eager faces of the Eevee squad.

Naoki crossed his arms. "If you don’t come back soon, I won’t take you to the fireworks display tonight."

"Bui…?"

At his words, the Eeveelutions all hesitated, their ears twitching in conflicted thought.

After some coaxing, Naoki learned that the Pokemon on the World Tree were hosting a bonfire party that evening, and the Eeveelutions had already promised the Pokémon there that they would attend.

"I see…" Naoki mused before an idea struck him. "In that case, why don’t you just stay at the World Tree? You should still be able to see the fireworks from there. When the time comes, give me a video call, and we can watch them together!"

"Buyi!" The Eeveelutions cheered in unison—this was a great idea!

Their little faces lit up with excitement.

After hanging up the call, Naoki turned to the Indeedee siblings standing nearby.

"You two should go enjoy the festival this year," he suggested with a smile.

The younger Indeedee looked tempted, but hesitation flickered in her eyes.

"Ai ah…"

Naoki immediately understood what Indeedee was thinking. "Don’t worry. It’s fine if the Pokémon Tavern is closed today. Most of the Pokémon who visit will probably be drawn to the fireworks display anyway."

Hearing those words, Indeedee finally looked relieved.

She and her brother agreed without hesitation and decided to wait until evening to head to the beach with Naoki to watch the fireworks.

Afterward, Naoki stepped outside and walked toward the ranch.

Dragonite stood near the farmland, carefully watering the crops, while Gogoat waited nearby, ready to channel Grass-type energy to help the plants grow.

A short distance away, Miltank grazed leisurely on dew-kissed grass, looking completely at peace.

Watching the lively yet tranquil scene, Naoki couldn’t help but smile.

His gaze shifted toward the ranch’s entrance, but he saw nothing.

"Iono isn’t here yet?"

After a moment’s thought, Naoki pulled out his phone and dialed Iono’s number.

The call barely had a chance to ring before an enthusiastic voice answered. "Hellu~?!"

Naoki raised an eyebrow and glanced toward the ranch gate. "Are you almost here?"

"We're leaving soon!" came Iono’s reply, accompanied by the sound of bags rustling. "I’m just finishing up getting gifts for the Cyclizar! Sorry for the delay, 'kay?"

Naoki sighed. "You’re already coming over, why bring gifts…?"

"Hehe!" A mischievous giggle came from the other end. "Y’know me, I gotta keep up my brand~! You guys put up with me all the time, so I gotta make it up somehow! Anyway, we’re all set and heading out soon!"

Checking the time, Naoki nodded. "Alright. I’ll have Dragonite come pick you up."

Without waiting for a reply, he turned and found his Dragonite.

A moment later, the large Dragon/Flying-type Pokémon soared into the sky, flapping its wings as it carried a small travel bag on its back.

"Just letting you know—I’ve got a few things to finish up here, but Dragonite’s already on the way. It should reach Levincia soon." Naoki said.

"Gotcha~! I'll be waitin'!"

After hanging up, Naoki returned to the field, carefully harvesting the ripe crops that Gogoat had nurtured.

Meanwhile, in Levincia.

Iono stood on the bustling street, juggling several shopping bags, a wide grin spreading across her face.

"Ehehehe~!"

Beside her, Bellibolt picked up on her good mood, gleefully swaying its round body from side to side.

Just then, a Rotom Phone notification popped up, interrupting her thoughts.

She glanced at the sender—Geeta?!

Her heart skipped a beat.

A special assignment? Oh no!

She had just managed to get two days off!

When she made her request, she’d been vague, only saying she had "personal matters" to attend to. If Geeta found out she had taken time off just to have fun, she was doomed!

Iono hurriedly opened the message.

[Geeta: Is the Levincia Gym not accepting challengers right now?]

[Iono: Yeah~! I have put up a lil' notice at the entrance saying "Closed for Maintenance! Come back later!" (≧▽≦)]

[Geeta: Got it! You haven’t been in Levincia these past two days?]

[Iono: Had some super-duper secret business to handle! So, ya know, just two days away! No worries, Boss~!]

She nervously tapped the screen, hoping Geeta wouldn’t pry further.

To her relief, Geeta simply left it at that.

Iono let out a deep breath and went back to waiting for Dragonite to arrive.

At the Paldea League Headquarters.

Rika watched as Geeta smiled at her phone, raising an eyebrow in disbelief.

"That girl finally figured it out, huh?" Geeta remarked with amusement. "Let’s hope things go well today!"

Rika sighed. "...Chief, Levincia Gym has been receiving complaints from Trainers. If those two actually end up getting along, falling in love, getting married, and starting a family… there’s not going to be anyone left to take over as Gym Leader."

From what Rika knew, a careless work attitude was something that Geeta took very seriously.

However, this time, Geeta’s response was not what Rika had expected.

Geeta simply shook her head nonchalantly. "It’s fine. These temporary setbacks are necessary. As for marriage and children… Rika, you’re thinking much further ahead than I expected!"

Rika: "…?"

Geeta chuckled and added, "Relax! Even if Iono ended up pregnant, wouldn't she still have Naoki? You really think he’d let Iono waddle into battle against challengers with a big belly?"

Rika blinked in surprise, then suddenly imagined a scenario where Iono was at home, taking time off to rest, while Naoki filled in as Levincia’s Gym Leader in her absence.

But then another thought struck her—with Naoki’s strength, would any Trainer even stand a chance of earning the Gym Badge?

"Still, it’s too early to jump to conclusions."

After all, Naoki’s feelings remained uncertain. While Iono found excuses to visit Naoki’s ranch every month, claiming she was "training for the Green Grass Trial," no one knew what Naoki truly thought of the situation.

Geeta knew better than to celebrate too soon. Leaning back in her chair, she pondered for a moment before making a decision.

"Oh, Rika! Announce a full-day break for the Paldea League staff. Let them enjoy themselves today!"

Rika hesitated for a moment. "And what about you?"

Geeta: "We’re heading to Kosaji Town. I heard they’ve prepared an incredible fireworks display this year. It’s bound to be a blast!"

...

"Thanks for the ride, Dragonite!"

In Levincia, Iono grinned as Dragonite descended from the sky, touching down gracefully in front of her.

She reached out and affectionately rubbed its head.

Dragonite let out a pleased "Awoo?" in response, already familiar with this human who frequently visited Naoki’s ranch. It happily lowered itself, making it easier for her to climb on.

But before she did, Iono opened the bag slung over Dragonite’s back and carefully placed the gifts she had bought inside.

Then, she took out Bellibolt's Poké Ball, returned her partner, and hopped onto Dragonite’s back.

Thirty minutes later, they arrived safely at the ranch.

When they landed, Naoki was busy carrying crates filled with freshly harvested crops—with Koraidon helping him out.

From a distance, Iono waved excitedly, arms flailing. "Long time no see, Naoki!"

Naoki glanced up, sighed, and replied, "It hasn’t been that long, has it?"

"Hehe~!"

Shaking his head at her usual antics, Naoki set down the crates and motioned toward the house. "Come inside and rest for a bit. The fireworks won’t start until later, so we’ll head out around six or seven."

"Sweet! Thanks for having me~!"

Originally, Naoki had planned to relax and entertain his guests after finishing work.

However, it seemed that the fireworks festival had drawn an influx of visitors—including Trainers from out of town eager to challenge him.

Throughout the morning, he received several challengers who had come to take on the Green Grass Trial.

Some Trainers had even traveled from faraway regions, claiming they wanted to see the "hidden boss of Paldea" in action.

Many of them demanded that Naoki battle at full strength.

It was said that this man was the former Ever Grande Conference Champion—an exceptionally strong Trainer whose ace Pokémon was rumored to be an unstoppable force, cutting down all opponents like a divine warrior.

Naoki, of course, didn’t hold back.

Since these challengers had come all this way, convinced that he was the "hidden boss of Paldea", he decided he might as well play the part.

So, in true hidden boss fashion, Naoki unleashed a flawless six-on-six battle against the Ever Grande Champion—crushing him so decisively that the poor Trainer was left speechless.

By the end of it, the man stood there, wide-eyed, muttering, "H-he’s too strong! What terrifying power…!" before stumbling off the ranch in a daze.

Naoki: "…"

By the time everything was wrapped up, it was already six in the evening.

After a quick dinner, Naoki and Iono gathered a group of Pokémon and made their way to the fireworks festival.

By the time they arrived, the beach was already teeming with visitors—both humans and Pokémon alike.

There were young Trainers on their journeys, couples traveling together, and families with children, all waiting in anticipation. Even elderly folks, sitting on benches with their longtime Pokémon partners, gazed at the starry night sky and the rhythmic waves below, savoring the moment.

Not only that—the festival’s marketplace had expanded significantly.

From a takoyaki stand to a Magikarp vendor selling fresh catches, from berry stalls to a handmade Poké Ball shop, there was something for everyone.

Naoki even spotted a mysterious fortune-telling booth run by a Hypno holding a pendulum, its eerie sway hypnotizing a fascinated tourist.

Nearby, excited children played with toy Poké Balls, their laughter filling the air.

Just as Mayor Thomas had promised, this year’s fireworks display was set to be the most grand and lively one yet.

After finding a quiet spot on the beach, Naoki and Iono settled down.

But as soon as Naoki sat down, Cyclizar trotted up, a ball clutched in its mouth. It dropped the ball in front of him and wagged its tail, eyes shining with anticipation.

"Alright, alright!"

With a chuckle, Naoki stood up and hurled the ball into the distance.

Cyclizar let out an excited "Gaao!" and dashed after it—only for Koraidon to swoop in at the last second, snatching the ball mid-air with a triumphant growl!

"Gah?!"

Cyclizar skidded to a halt, utterly dumbfounded. It then turned around, looking deeply betrayed, and whined to Naoki, as if complaining about Koraidon’s unfair interception.

Naoki sighed, rubbing his temples. "Koraidon!"

Upon hearing Naoki’s exasperated tone, Koraidon immediately dropped the ball and bolted, acting as if it had done nothing wrong.

Naoki: "…"

From the side, Iono burst into laughter. "Is this how you and your Pokémon normally get along?"

Naoki grinned. "Yeah. With them around, life’s never boring."

Smiling, he threw the ball again—this time making sure Cyclizar got a fair chance at chasing it.

As Cyclizar sprinted after the ball, Luxio and Togedemaru, watching from nearby, suddenly perked up.

Their eyes sparkled with excitement.

They turned toward Iono, eyes pleading. They wanted to play too!

Iono scratched her cheek awkwardly. "Uh-oh… I didn’t bring any Pokémon toys this time…!"

Noticing the situation, Naoki chuckled and reached into his bag. He pulled out a set of toy Frisbees he had prepared in advance and handed them over.

"Here, use these!"

Luxio and Togedemaru turned to look at Naoki in surprise.

He simply smiled back.

With his natural connection to Pokémon, he quickly earned their trust.

Moments later, Luxio and Togedemaru joined in on the game, darting across the sand as they chased after the Frisbees with boundless energy.

Meanwhile, a different scene was unfolding at the festival stalls.

Ogerpon, seemingly uninterested in Frisbee games, had found a group of Pokémon and was curiously wandering between the festival booths.

Just like that, the Pokémon blended effortlessly into the festival crowd, experiencing the joy of shopping together.

In the dimly lit corner of the festival, Flutter Mane hovered silently in the air, watching the lively scene unfold before it.

Suddenly, Iono’s Mismagius floated over, its curiosity piqued. It tilted its head and asked what Flutter Mane was doing.

Flutter Mane murmured, "Fluu.." (How beautiful!)

The Mismagius turned to see what had captivated its companion. The festival market was alight with bright, colorful lanterns. Above them, the night sky stretched infinitely, a deep, mesmerizing blue. A cool sea breeze swept through the air, carrying the scent of salt and celebration. Gentle waves lapped at the shore, leaving behind trails of foamy white.

It truly was a beautiful sight.

So, side by side, Mismagius and Flutter Mane gazed at the breathtaking scene together.

Nearby, the Indeedee siblings sat happily next to Naoki. They had spread a picnic blanket on the soft sand, carefully placing a basket full of delicious snacks on it—ready for the Pokémon to enjoy whenever they tired of playing.

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A little further down the beach, Pawmot and its close friend Slugma ran playfully along the shore. Occasionally, they would stop, glancing up at the full moon, marveling at its round, luminous glow in the sky.

After spending time playing with the Pokémon, Naoki felt a bit tired and decided to sit down on the sand to rest.

Beside him, Iono let out an exhausted breath as she gently pushed away Luxio’s face, which had gotten a little too close for comfort. She plopped down beside Naoki, her body sinking into the sand.

Neither of them spoke for a moment.

The distant sounds of laughter, the rhythmic crash of waves, and the cool night breeze created an oddly peaceful atmosphere.

Naoki found himself looking up at the full moon, observing the vibrant, bustling festival before him. The scene was so vivid, so full of life, that he couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of contentment.

His thoughts drifted back to something Indeedee had mentioned earlier.

She had told him that she sensed something—a warm fondness from Iono toward him.

That thought lingered in his mind.

Without thinking, he turned his head slightly toward Iono.

To his surprise, she was already looking at him.

For a fleeting moment, their eyes met in the soft glow of the moonlight.

A strange, unspoken feeling settled between them.

The air around them seemed to shift.

"The moonlight is so pretty tonight!" Iono quickly turned away, looking up at the sky, her voice flustered. A faint blush dusted her cheeks.

Naoki followed her gaze and, sure enough, saw the brilliant full moon hanging above them.

Sensing the awkward atmosphere, he exhaled slowly and decided to change the subject.

"By the way, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you."

"Huh? What is it?" Iono turned her head back toward him.

Naoki hesitated for a moment before speaking honestly.

"Levincia and Kosaji Town are so far apart… doesn’t it bother you to make this trip so often?"

…"

…"

At that moment, something inside Iono shifted.

She looked at Naoki, her expression filled with a mix of exasperation and realization—as if she had just made a firm decision in her heart.

"Naoki…" she sighed dramatically. "You’re such an idiot!"

Naoki blinked, slightly taken aback.

Iono’s face turned a deep shade of pink, but she didn’t back down.

"Of course, I come here because of you!"

Her words struck Naoki like a thunderbolt.

For a moment, he just stared at her, his mind processing what she had just said.

Just then, a loud cheer erupted from the festival crowd.

At that very moment, Mayor Thomas gave the signal—igniting the long-anticipated fireworks display.

A symphony of colors burst into the sky.

Golden sparks, radiant blues, deep violets, and dazzling reds streaked across the night, turning into breathtaking firework flowers blooming behind Iono at the edge of the festival.

As the sky lit up, Naoki turned back toward Iono—and for a moment, amidst the glowing fireworks, he saw his own reflection in her shimmering blue eyes.

Everything around them seemed to fade into silence.

All he could hear was the rhythm of his own heartbeat.

"Plop. Plop. Plop."

The fireworks thundered above them, but the only sound Naoki registered was the pounding in his chest.

Then, in a voice so soft it almost blended with the breeze, Iono looked at the sky and whispered:

"I like you."

Her tone was light—almost as if she were making an ordinary comment about the weather.

"Boom!"

A massive firework shot into the sky, exploding into a brilliant golden Pikachu-shaped display.