Kai didn't waste time arguing further. He walked straight to the backyard of Mateo's shop, pulled out an Ultra Ball, and released the Crystal Onix.
Though the Crystal Onix was still battered from their earlier battle and clearly not in its best state, the rest it had gotten in its Poké Ball had helped it regain some of its strength.
Its shimmering crystalline body, even in its weary state, was breathtaking to behold.
"That's… that's really the Crystal Onix?!"
Mateo and Marissa stood frozen, staring at the magnificent Pokémon in sheer disbelief. They couldn't take their eyes off it, as if afraid it might vanish at any moment.
Just as they were about to step closer to examine it, Kai withdrew the Crystal Onix back into its Poké Ball.
In a flash, Mateo darted over to Kai and clasped his hands tightly. "Where did you find it?!"
Kai wriggled his hand free and shook his head. "That's not important. What matters is that I own this one-of-a-kind Pokémon. Now, do you believe me?"
"Yes, yes, I believe you!" Mateo nodded frantically, his excitement palpable. "Can you sell it to me? Or maybe we can trade I'll give you any Pokémon you want in exchange!"
Kai's expression turned cold. "Not happening. I don't sell my Pokémon, and I definitely don't trade them."
"But… but I really need it!" Mateo pleaded, his desperation evident.
"So do I," Kai replied firmly. "I'm a trainer, and this Pokémon is a valuable part of my team. Stop dreaming about it."
Mateo's shoulders slumped in defeat. "Fine… What about your earlier request? You wanted me to make something out of that Never-Melt Ice, right?"
Kai raised an eyebrow, surprised by Mateo's sudden change of attitude. "That's right. If you can create the accessory I need, I'll let you study the Crystal Onix as your payment."
Standing to the side, Sabrina frowned slightly, confused by the exchange. Why was Kai so intent on working with this particular artisan?
Mateo seemed to catch her expression and explained, "This shop used to be one of the busiest on Sunburst Island when my grandfather was alive. He was a master glassmaker and crafted some of the finest Pokémon-related glass pieces. But after he passed, no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't replicate his success. Everything I make feels lifeless and soulless."
Sabrina glanced around the shop. The glass pieces displayed on the shelves were simple yet skillfully crafted. To her, they seemed just as good as the pieces in other shops.
She turned her gaze back to Mateo. "Your work looks fine to me. Isn't it possible you're being too hard on yourself, comparing your skills to your grandfather's?"
Mateo shook his head. "It's not just about quality. My grandfather's work had something special something alive. I heard he once encountered the Crystal Onix during his travels. That experience inspired him and took his craft to the next level. I've always believed that if I could see the Crystal Onix for myself, I'd find the inspiration I need to truly surpass my limits."
Hearing this, Mateo paused and looked at Kai suspiciously. "But how did you know I was looking for the Crystal Onix in the first place?"
Kai shrugged. "You said it yourself every glass artisan on the island wants to find it. And your sister's message in the bottle mentioned it. It wasn't hard to connect the dots."
Mateo glanced at Marissa, who looked sheepish under her brother's gaze. Ruffling her hair affectionately, he muttered, "Marissa might've helped us out without even realizing it. Anyway, people here think the Crystal Onix is the embodiment of the Glass God a symbol of perfection. That's why everyone's so desperate to find it. They believe it'll make their glasswork sell better."
Kai smirked. "Aren't you just like them, then? Chasing after the same goal for your own craft?"
Mateo opened his mouth to argue but stopped, realizing Kai was right. After a moment of silence, he relented. "Alright, I'll make your accessory. Just tell me what you need."
Kai handed Mateo a series of close-up photos of Articuno, along with a sheet of measurements and specifications.
Though the photos only revealed partial images of the legendary Pokémon, Mateo's years of working with Pokémon-themed designs allowed him to identify it instantly.
"This is… Articuno?!" Mateo exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration.
Kai nodded. "That's right. You're making something for Articuno. I don't care about the shape or design just make sure it doesn't interfere with its movement or battle abilities."
Mateo's jaw dropped. "You're not just a trainer you're extraordinary. First the Crystal Onix, and now Articuno?"
Kai grinned. "Focus on the task. Where should I meet you once it's done?"
Mateo pointed toward the outskirts of town. "I'll bring it to your lodging when it's ready."
Back at the cosy inn run by the elderly landlady, Kai and Sabrina settled back into their rooms.
Over the next few days, Kai spent his time in the courtyard training his Pokémon, ensuring the Crystal Onix grew comfortable with the rest of the team.
In the evenings, he and Sabrina explored the island together, sampling local delicacies and enjoying the relaxed pace of life. The days passed peacefully, and their bond grew stronger with each passing moment.
But just as Kai was beginning to enjoy this routine, Mateo returned earlier than expected. Despite the intricate challenge of working with Never-Melt Ice, he had poured his heart and soul into the project, working tirelessly day and night.
In just three days, Mateo stood at the inn's doorstep, proudly holding a masterpiece in his hands.
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