The Lavaridge Gym's Secret Passage

The streets of Lavaridge Town were much cooler in the early morning than in the afternoon. The scent of sulfur in the air was also fainter, mingling with the aromas drifting from breakfast stalls and creating a peaceful, lived-in atmosphere.

Xinhai walked briskly, his heart full of anticipation for another bond that was about to be officially formed.

From a distance, he spotted the familiar fiery-red figure standing before the Lavaridge Gym's heavy reddish-brown doors, occasionally standing on tiptoe to look around. It was Flannery.

"Flannery!" Xinhai waved in greeting.

"Xinhai!" Flannery's eyes lit up, and she immediately jogged over. Her short crimson hair bounced in the morning breeze. "You came at just the right time! Grandpa asked me to wait for you here!"

She wore a bright smile and spoke cheerfully. "Grandpa said he'd already coordinated with the other Gym Leaders and Nurse Joy. We can sign the investment agreement now!"

Xinhai smiled as well. "I already know. I just received messages from Brawly and the others."

"Ah, even better!" Flannery clapped her hands happily. "Looks like everyone was really efficient! What are we waiting for, then? Let's go in. Grandpa is waiting for you in his study."

She turned and pushed open a side door of the Gym, then expertly led Xinhai through several quiet corridors to a relatively secluded area.

The decorations here were more antique and elegant. The walls displayed aged volcanic rock paintings and photographs of Pokémon.

Flannery stopped before a dark wooden door and knocked lightly.

"Come in." Mura's loud yet gentle voice came from inside.

Flannery pushed open the door and stepped aside to let Xinhai enter. The study was more spacious than expected, with shelves neatly packed with books and documents. Behind a broad solid-wood desk, Mura sat holding a file.

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