Chapter 105: A Perfect Act

"Naga, are you playing games with us?"

The hunter standing atop the Steel Fortress was visibly agitated. He hadn't expected Naga to reject his offer outright.

Just then, Komon, wearing his Charmander mask, interjected, "With Agatha, Blaine, and Klein stationed at Cinnabar Island, launching a full-scale attack on the underground ley lines is anything but a wise decision."

The man sneered. "Another masked fool. Why don't you put on a dress while you're at it?"

The comment struck Komon like a critical hit, sending psychological damage through his core.

Can we not have a proper conversation?

And Naga, what's with that look in your eyes?

Komon snorted coldly. "Cooperation is built on sincerity. Unless you present a well-thought-out plan for Cinnabar Island, we will not agree to a reckless attack."

The hunter's gaze flickered, but before he could respond, Naga let out a loud yawn.

"Don't look at me. His words are my words."

"Is the Kamiyama family truly this afraid of the Sandstorm Elite?"

"Instead of dwelling on Cinnabar Island, let me provide you with some intel. Afterward, you can decide your next move."

Naga ignored the topic of the Sandstorm Elite and transmitted a file to the Steel Fortress.

The leader of Team Plasma's rogue faction skimmed through the data. His expression shifted from skepticism to hesitation.

"You're really just... giving us this?"

Naga smiled brightly. "Make good use of this opportunity. If you succeed, I'll personally assist in your attack on Cinnabar Island."

"Heh, don't go back on your word when the time comes."

Even though they knew this was Naga's scheme, Team Plasma's rogue faction had no choice but to accept the deal.

As the Steel Fortress disappeared into the distance, Komon shot Naga a suspicious look.

"What exactly did you give them to make them agree so quickly?"

Naga grinned. "I'll tell you—once you agree to wear Erika's bathrobe."

CRACK.

Komon crushed his Charmander mask in his fist.

"Hah. You wanna die?"

The Royal Aura of Rota Gym

Rota Gym, located near Old Roudran City, resembled a miniature royal estate. Though not as grand as the main castle, it still exuded an air of nobility, making it difficult to believe it was a functioning Pokémon Gym.

The Pokémon Center was a mere ten-minute walk from the gym. Klein and Rosa strolled leisurely through Rota's morning streets.

"Ugh, I'm starving. I forgot to eat before we left…"

Rosa's stomach grumbled. She had been so nervous about her first Gym Challenge that she completely forgot about breakfast.

Without a word, Klein reached into his bag and handed her a snack.

Rosa took it with a small blush, feeling a bit embarrassed.

Why does he feel more like the girl in this situation?

How does he always prepare for things better than I do?

Meanwhile, Klein casually flipped through a Pokémon magazine.

"Just eat. I always keep some snacks on me."

Taking a bite, Rosa wasn't surprised—it was exactly her favorite flavor.

How does he know my tastes better than I do?

She quickly finished the food, took a deep breath, and bounced back to full energy.

By the time they reached Rota Gym, the golden gates of the estate swung open.

A young blonde woman stood waiting for them.

"Welcome. I am Koko, your guide to Rota Gym. Please, come in."

Koko's elegance was undeniable. Her golden hair, her well-coordinated attire—everything about her radiated sophistication.

Rosa took one look at her own casual outfit and immediately felt self-conscious.

Klein leaned in and whispered into Rosa's ear.

"This is psychological warfare. Ignore it."

His breath tickled her ear, making her cheeks flush red.

She let out a soft 'Mmh' and nodded quickly.

The Hidden Message in Rota Gym

Walking down the grand hallway, Klein noticed paintings hanging on both sides.

Each painting seemed to tell a different story, causing Klein to pause and observe.

Koko noticed and began explaining.

"This piece was painted sixty years ago by Kanto's legendary artist, Aaron. It depicts the conflict between humans and Pokémon, highlighting the complexities of coexistence."

Koko was clearly well-versed in history. Her knowledge in culture and art far exceeded Klein and Rosa's.

As they continued forward, she patiently explained the origins and significance of every artifact in the gym, sharing fascinating stories along the way.

Unintentionally, Rosa began to feel pressured.

Rota Gym wasn't just a battle ground—it was a symbol of tradition and legacy. The sheer history of the place felt intimidating, making Rosa even more anxious.

Sensing this, Klein frowned slightly.

"When will Gym Leader Shirley begin the challenge?"

His voice was calm but firm.

Koko smiled politely.

"Miss Shirley is currently overseeing a royal etiquette lesson. Would you care to observe? It might be particularly helpful for Miss Rosa to learn proper decorum. Additionally, we have a dressing room available for more formal attire."

Rosa froze on the spot.

The formal outfit from last night—the one she wore to meet Queen Irene—had already been returned. She had nothing appropriate to wear now.

Her face flushed with embarrassment.

"I-I should probably change, then… It wouldn't be polite to meet her dressed like this."

Klein remained silent, watching Rosa follow the attendants to the dressing room.

Then, in a low voice, he spoke.

"Tradition and history should never be used as an excuse to hinder progress. Clinging to the past in hopes of maintaining an unchanging world… is no different from these grand buildings—sooner or later, they too will crumble."

Koko chuckled softly, unfazed.

"Surely, you wouldn't want such traditions to disappear, Elite Four Klein?"

"That depends entirely on your actions."

Klein's aura shifted.

His commanding presence as an Elite Four member suddenly filled the air—cold, sharp, and unyielding.

Even Koko, despite her calm demeanor, felt the weight of his overwhelming presence.

But before the tension could build further—

"Stop scaring her!"

Rosa gently tugged on Klein's sleeve, breaking the tense atmosphere.

Dressed in an elegant gown, she looked stunning—even more so than Koko.

Klein studied her quietly, then nodded.

"That dress suits you."

Rosa smirked.

"Could you afford it?"

Klein scratched his head.

"Well, uh… the League does pay me decently…"

Rosa grinned and turned to Koko.

"Koko, don't mind him. He's just a master of bad jokes."

Koko blinked.

Bad jokes?

That wasn't a joke—it was pure intimidation…

Rosa knew Klein was just standing up for her. She was deeply touched—but she also knew they needed to keep up appearances.

And so, she played her part perfectly.

With seamless coordination, Klein and Rosa played off each other.

A perfect act—one leading, the other following.

(End of Chapter)