The League's Situation

When Gym Leader Mura looked at Xinhai again, the sharp scrutiny in his eyes had completely turned into the pure appreciation of an elder for an outstanding junior. Even his tone became relaxed and straightforward.

He said to Xinhai, "Xinhai, someone will contact you later regarding the specific details of the investment agreement. Just like the previous companies, there won't be any harsh restrictions on you, much less any forcing you to do something against your own wishes. You can rest assured of that."

"Yes! Thank you, Gym Leader Mura!" Xinhai revealed a relieved and sincere smile, and the last trace of concern in his heart vanished.

"Still calling me Gym Leader?" Gym Leader Mura deliberately put on a stern face, his graying brows lifting before he broke into a smile. "Don't be so distant from now on. Just call me Grandpa Mura."

Xinhai paused at that. Under Gym Leader Mura's expectant gaze, which carried a hint of "threat," he smoothly changed his address. "All right, Grandpa Mura."

"Hahaha! That's more like it!" Mura nodded in satisfaction, the wrinkles on his face relaxing with his smile.

He glanced at his granddaughter Flannery, who had been quietly listening at the side with her eyes fixed on Xinhai, and smiled. "All right, this old man has nothing else to do. Flannery, see Xinhai out for me."

"Okay, Grandpa!" Flannery immediately responded, a lively smile blooming across her face. She skipped over to Xinhai in a few steps. "Xinhai, this way. I'll walk you out!"

Xinhai solemnly nodded to Grandpa Mura once more. "Then we'll be taking our leave, Grandpa Mura."

"Go on, go on. Relax properly. The hot springs in Lavaridge Town are quite good!" Mura waved them off as he watched the two young people—and their Pokémon—turn and leave.

The passageway