As the evolution animation ended, Roxanne delivered a few scripted lines, then gave Lance the Stone Badge and a TM-Rock Tomb.
Lance had no intention of lingering in Rustboro City. He left the Gym, planning to head to the next city.
After he stepped outside and went to the Pokémon Center to heal up, the screen suddenly froze.
A boy blocked his path.
"Weak Pokémon become worthless after a single loss. Someone like you, traveling around with trash, doesn't understand what true strength is."
"Well? Do you dare accept my challenge? I'll show you what real strength looks like!"
Lance stared at the screen, his brows furrowing at once.
What nonsense was this kid spouting?
Trash?
Worth??
What did you think Pokémon were, you bastard?
I was going to teach you a proper lesson!
Lance rolled up his sleeves and started the battle without hesitation.
However, one minute later...
[You have no Pokémon left that can battle!] [You blacked out!]
Lance:
Looking at the message and the black screen, Lance couldn't help frowning again.
This kid was actually that strong too?
Meanwhile, the chat began offering reminders:
[Streamer, this Paul's level is pretty high. You can grind a bit before coming back. You've got a new Badge now anyway, so your level cap has gone up. Might as well take advantage of it.]
[Right, go grind some levels, then come back and beat him up. No rush.]
[You can do it, big bro the Dragon-type specialist!]
Seeing the completely different mood in the chat this time, Lance couldn't help raising his eyebrows.
"You all seem to really want me to beat him?"
The chat immediately responded.
[Not really, but what this kid said was pretty obnoxious.]
[Memes online are one thing, but who would actually like Paul in