Mega Metagross scratched its head without forgetting its roots, then finally undid its Mega Evolution, as though it had Mega Evolved solely to scratch its head.
Su Hao wanted to say something, but Steven raised a hand to stop him and merely pressed a hand to his forehead. "No explanation needed."
Even without Su Hao explaining, judging by Metagross's bearing after Mega Evolution, Su Hao had clearly raised it well. Its strength was enough to contend with an Elite Four member's main Pokémon.
Combined with the Mythical Pokémon Diancie that had made his heart tremble, Steven felt that if Su Hao were willing, he might even be able to compete for a place among the Elite Four.
Honestly, this was already an unexpected delight. In the past, it had been quite good enough if the Trainers he entrusted Pokémon to could raise them to the level of a Gym Leader. Su Hao was among the very best of the Trainers he had invested in.
As for the strength Mega Metagross had leaked after Mega Evolution, so utterly different from his own Metagross, Steven had no desire to get to the bottom of it.
Still... his stomach kind of hurt.
After that, Su Hao chatted with Steven for a while longer, exchanging insights on raising Metagross and Steel-type Pokémon.
Before saying goodbye, Su Hao remembered his agreement with Cynthia. Thinking that Steven, Metagross's former meal ticket, could also take a good look at its battle, he invited him, "Tomorrow, Metagross and I will be sparring with Miss Cynthia, the League Champion of the Sinnoh region. Do you want to come watch?"
Steven toyed with his signet ring. He had not expected to hear Cynthia's name from Su Hao, and his hand paused as a gentle smile appeared on his face. "You