The sun was already high in the sky when Professor Oak finally made his way to his study, feeling the weight of the conversation he had just had with Geeta. It was not an easy decision, nor was it one he made lightly. Kai had always been the kind of person to avoid conflict, to live his life on his terms, away from the eyes of the world. But now, something larger than either of them was at stake — and Oak knew he couldn't bear the thought of the young man being caught unprepared when the time came.
Prof. Oak sighed and glanced at his phone. He had promised Geeta he would reach out to Kai and, if possible, convince him to help. His hand hovered over the phone for a moment before he hit Kai's contact.
The line rang twice before Kai's voice came through, calm and familiar. "Professor Oak," he greeted, though there was an underlying tiredness to his tone. "What's going on?"
Prof. Oak's heart gave a small tug. Kai had always been polite with him, but this was the voice of a man who had long distanced himself from the world of Pokémon battles. Kai, the quiet rancher, had built a life for himself that kept him away from the politics and battles of the Pokémon world. Prof. Oak had always respected that choice, but today, Prof. Oak knew he had to ask for more.
"Kai, I need to speak with you about something important," Oak began gently, trying to soften the request before diving into the heart of it. "It's about a Paradox Pokémon in Paldea."
There was a moment of silence on the other end, and Prof. Oak could almost hear Kai's thoughts processing the situation. Then, Kai's voice broke the stillness. "A Paradox Pokémon? What's happened now?"
"A Paradox Tyranitar — Iron Thorns — has been spotted in the mountainous regions of Paldea," Prof. Oak continued, trying to keep his tone steady. "It's injured, but it's been acting with extreme aggression. Some young trainers were caught in its path, and though they're not critically hurt, the situation is escalating. Geeta has asked for help, but I know she can't count on just anyone."
There was a long pause on the line, and Professor Oak could almost feel the weight of the silence. He knew what was coming.
"I don't do that anymore, Professor," Kai replied, his voice heavy with reluctance. "I left that world behind."
"I understand," Professor Oak said, his voice softening. "I've always respected your decision, Kai. But this is different. This isn't just about battles or fame. This is about helping people, and helping Paldea. Geeta and I can't do this alone."
There was a long pause, and Professor Oak could almost feel Kai's thoughts swirling on the other side of the line. The rancher had always been a private person, dedicated to living a life of peace. But Prof. Oak knew that when Kai was called upon, he had a strength unlike any other.
Finally, Kai spoke again, his tone quiet but firm. "I'll help. But only because I have to. Iron Thorns is dangerous, and if it's acting like this, there's more going on than we know. I'll come to Paldea, but we need to get to the bottom of this before it spreads."
Professor Oak let out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding. Kai had agreed. It wasn't a full, enthusiastic agreement, but it was enough. The young man was going to come, and that was all he needed.
"Thank you, Kai," he said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I don't know what we would have done without you."
"I'm not doing this for recognition, Professor," Kai said, his voice steady. "I'm doing it because it's the right thing to do."
"I understand," Prof. Oak replied. "But your strength is something we need now more than ever."
"I'll be in touch once I arrive in Paldea," Kai said before the line went quiet.
Professor Oak sat back in his chair, the weight of the decision settling over him. He had known Kai would agree, but he also understood the reluctance behind it. The young man wasn't interested in glory or attention. He was driven by a sense of duty — and that was exactly why Oak trusted him.