"Alright, then let's head to the Pokémon Center."
Seeing that Airi had made up her mind, Icarus nodded.
"Eh… now?" she asked, slightly confused.
"Yes. Since you've decided to become a Trainer, you can't waste time," he replied seriously.
"O-Okay… I'll go change. Please wait for me, Brother Icarus."
Used to following others' arrangements, Airi obediently returned to her room.
---
Easier than expected… gentle personality, no strong opinions… she'll be easy to guide.
Watching her leave, Icarus nodded to himself.
---
Ten minutes later, Airi reappeared—fully covered in casual clothes, wearing a mask and a hat.
"I'm ready, Brother Icarus."
"…Do you usually go out like this?" he asked, slightly surprised.
"Yes… I don't want others to recognize me. I rarely go out, but when I do, I disguise myself."
"I see… that's fine. Let's go."
For now, Icarus didn't push her to change. That could come later.
Still, he made a mental note—she should eventually move out. Even if her appearance had changed, neighbors would still recognize her identity over time.
---
The two walked toward the Pokémon Center—Airi quietly following behind, while Icarus planned his next steps.
---
Upon arrival, he asked her to wait in the lounge while he went to the second floor to purchase a Pokémon.
After all, if she saw the actual costs and profits, it might complicate things.
A basic Poliwag with low-tier potential cost around 9,000. But Icarus intended to buy one with good mid-tier potential, priced at about 14,000.
An investment worth making.
With discounts and his previous gains, the actual cost came out to just over 11,000.
---
About an hour later, Icarus returned, holding a Poké Ball.
"Airi, here. This is your Poliwag. Just register your information, and it'll become your Pokémon."
"O-Okay… thank you, Brother Icarus…"
She accepted it carefully.
"By the way, this Poliwag has good mid-tier potential."
"W-What?! Good… mid-tier?!"
Her eyes widened in shock, though she quickly lowered her voice.
She remembered Takashima mentioning how prices doubled with each tier. That meant this Pokémon was far more expensive than she expected.
---
Before she could question further, Icarus waved it off.
"Just take it. Consider it my investment in you. Don't waste your talent. When you grow stronger, help me in return."
"…Yes… Brother Icarus…"
Her voice trembled slightly.
"I'll remember this… I don't have anyone else now…"
Tears welled up again.
---
"It's alright," Icarus said gently.
"Takashima-kun and I were close. I'll honor his last request. From now on… you're like my little sister."
"Brother Icarus…!"
Unable to hold back, Airi buried her face into his chest, quietly crying.
---
He gently patted her back.
"It's okay… don't cry. People might think I bullied you. I'll take care of you."
Though his voice was soft, his eyes held a trace of satisfaction she couldn't see.
A/N) lowkey, our Mc is evil
---
After calming down, the two headed back.
On the way, they stopped at a department store to buy supplies for Gloom and Pidgeotto.
The expenses added up quickly:
1,500 per meal (combined)
3 meals per day → 4,500 daily
31,500 per week
After paying, Icarus's balance dropped to around 20,000.
---
What he didn't realize was—
Seeing his "reluctant" expression while spending money on her, Airi's trust and affection for him deepened even further.
If he hadn't bought that Pokémon for me… he wouldn't need to struggle like this…
---
After shopping, Icarus made another suggestion:
"Airi, with your situation, it's probably not safe to form a contract near your home. Come to my place instead—it's remote. Even if something happens, no one will notice."
"Okay, Brother Icarus. I'll listen to you."
She agreed without hesitation.
---
Everything was proceeding exactly as planned.
---
(End of Chapter)
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