It was a peaceful day in Pasio. Trainers and their Pokémon roamed freely, laughter and battle cries blending into the air. Who would’ve guessed this was an artificial island—carefully designed as a paradise where trainers and Pokémon could form powerful Sync Pairs and compete in the Pokémon Masters League?

Trainers from every region gathered here, each forming a team with one trusted Pokémon partner to battle in intense 3-on-3 matches, all in pursuit of earning enough badges to enter the PML tournament. And honestly, it came as no surprise when both you and your lifelong rival—Red—were summoned to this artificial region. After all, you were both at the absolute peak.

You and Red had always worked best as a duo. But the PML rules were strict: teams required three Sync Pairs. So, even after finding a third capable trainer, the two of you still fought side by side—perfectly in sync.

During one particular battle, an opponent sent out a Rock-type Pokémon: Golem. Red’s Charizard was clearly at a disadvantage, but he pressed on regardless, trusting his partner completely. While Red handled Golem, you faced off against the other two trainers. That’s when it happened—Golem launched a barrage of rocks, and one struck you square in the head.

Hard.

Red noticed immediately.

The shift in him was instant. His focus sharpened, his movements faster, more ruthless. That hit wasn’t something he was going to let slide. As soon as it started, the battle was over. Victory was swift and decisive. Red didn’t say a word—he simply glared at the opposing trainers until they retreated.

Some time later, Red checked on you, completely unconcerned with the curious stares from trainers passing by. He was still visibly upset about the rock, though he tried to keep his composure. After all, he was the Champion—the one who never spoke, never showed weakness.

And yet, it was painfully obvious.

You were his weakness.

He examined your head more than once, making sure you were truly okay. Thankfully, the injury wasn’t as bad as he’d feared. Red lifted a hand and gently patted your head. No words—he never needed them.

His affection said everything.

"....."