The following evening saw Makani waiting on his porch steps with his chin on his hand. He wished he could be there with them, but he'd done everything he could. It was up to them now. Azophi’s door creaked, and Makani searched their posture for clues. It didn't look great.

“Ohayō.”

“Hey. How’d it go?”

“She said she would let me go—”

Makani leapt up and threw both hands in the air. “YES! AHHHH!”

“If I can finish my degree at the same time.”

“That’s no problem! Ho-U has online courses. That’s totally doable! And I’ll help you with the trainer certification! Dax and I can quiz you!”

Azophi cocked their head. “Who’s Dax?”

“They’re one of Kukui’s Rotomdexes. They’re coming with us.”

“Back up. Rotomdex?”

“It’s a new pokedex model made for a Rotom to possess.”

“But Rotoms are such little shits. There’s this one in Kogane that likes possessing the traffic lights and causing accidents. Why the hell would you want one in a pokedex?”

Makani didn't want to spoil it for them now. “It’s super cool, just trust me.”

Azophi raised an eyebrow. “If you say so… I still can’t believe that bit about making connections around the islands that your mom came up with actually convinced Okāsan.”

Makani shrugged. “What can I say, she’s used to dealing with overbearing parents.” A breeze blew through and ruffled his hair. “So, you’re really coming with us?”

“Yep. This is actually happening.”

Makani hugged Azophi, and they laughed until he was squeezing so tight that they couldn't quite breathe. He let them go, and they smiled nervously.

“I just hope I can get into all these classes.”

“We got this!” He turned and ran back inside, calling for his stepfather. “Pika! Pika we need your help!”