Janine took a deep yet silent breath. Crouched unseen in the branches, she observed her target intently. This was one of the most crucial aspects of being a big sister, and she would not be found wanting.

Below her, Sakura stopped and looked up. She was visibly holding back a sigh.

"I know you're there, you know."

Janine ignored her, perfectly still on her chosen tree at the border of Fuchsia city grounds. She was one with the shadows. One with nature.

"...Want some of my mochi?"

Janine gently plucked the sweet from Sakura's outstretched hand. Sakura's other hand was covering her face, and Janine felt a mix of warmth and embarrassment melting her from within. She knew she needed to get faster at her movement technique, but her sister didn't say anything.

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Together, the sisters ate the goodbye snack in companionable silence. Sakura hadn't wanted a flashy farewell, and she had already packed before the ceremony for a quick exit, as befit a true shinobi. Of course, she and Ino didn't leave until after hugging Aunt Joy, Koga, Janine herself and several of the Pokemon.

It still amused Janine to see Koga remaining stoic while being squished between Sakura and Ino in their group hug.

She had said goodbye already, both out loud and in her heart. Even if Sakura had stayed in Kanto, she likely wouldn't have returned until months later after the circuit wrapped up.

But still…

"I'll write to you, okay?" Sakura said, smiling. Both Ino and Sarada were in their Pokeballs, resting till Sakura reached the Saffron Train Station.

Janine was sure her face remained as calm and impassive as their father. But family always knew.

"I look forward to it."

The mochi had never tasted so sweet.