Feathers and Books

Won!

Though not in the true sense of winning a battle.

It was because Giovanni's Landorus had used a second move.

Although it had not caused Dragapult much damage, it went against Giovanni's original intention of "one move each."

Besides.

Xia Yan had figured it out.

Giovanni simply wanted to test his strength.

Although Greninja was Elite Four-level, it could not meet Giovanni's standards.

It was only when he saw Dragapult appear that Giovanni finally acknowledged Xia Yan's strength.

As for whether they would continue battling afterward, or who would win or lose, none of that mattered anymore.

In fact—

Xia Yan glanced at Giovanni as he walked toward him.

What Giovanni had just said made Xia Yan unable to stop a strange illusion from forming in his mind.

That Giovanni already knew about his identity in the Pokémon League.

And knew he was an undercover agent sent by the Pokémon League.

He had merely wanted to see whether Xia Yan would summon Beedrill, Alakazam, and the others.

The moment that thought arose, Xia Yan could not help shaking his head.

The fact that he was an undercover agent—

Only he and Agatha knew.

And Xia Yan believed that Agatha would never spread it around.

Then how could Giovanni have known?

Or rather.

Was this one of his tests?

Countless thoughts ran through his mind.

But none showed on his face.

When Giovanni came before him, Xia Yan put away his scattered thoughts and called respectfully, "Boss."

"Not bad."

Giovanni appeared quite satisfied. He looked Xia Yan up and down, nodding continuously.

"Compared with Greninja and Hydreigon, I can see your rapport with this Dragapult."

That was certain.

Although Dragapult had never undergone Xia Yan's training and rarely fought under his command.

It had to be admitted that, aside from