The referee on the platform glanced at Espeon, then at Alakazam. He raised his right arm, holding the flag high.
"Espeon and Alakazam are unable to battle!" His voice was loud and clear, echoing through the silent battle room.
"Gym Leader Yano Keisuke's four Pokémon have all lost their ability to battle. Therefore, I declare—the winner of this Gym battle is the challenger, Xinhai Bai Mu!"
At the sidelines, the Gym trainees began applauding in unison.
The applause was not particularly enthusiastic, but every clap was sincere and forceful, carrying their respect for the splendid battle.
Xinhai stood in the command area and let out a long breath, his tense shoulders gradually relaxing.
He looked toward the center of the field—Gardevoir floated in midair, its red eyes fixed on him, a gentle smile on its lips.
Krookodile stood not far away, its massive dark-red body covered in injuries. Yet its dark-red eyes remained bright, and a hint of smugness flashed beneath its sunglasses.
"You've worked hard. Come back and rest for now!" Xinhai took out their Poké Balls. Two red beams shot out, recalling Gardevoir and Krookodile.
In the command area opposite him, Yano Keisuke removed two Poké Balls from his waist and pressed their buttons.
Red beams precisely enveloped Alakazam and Espeon at the edge of the field, recalling them into their Poké Balls.
Yano Keisuke lowered his head to look at the two Poké Balls in his hands, gently rubbing their surfaces with his thumb.
"Alakazam. Espeon. Thanks for the effort." His voice was soft, yet filled with heartfelt tenderness. "You both fought well. Get some proper rest."
He clipped the Poké Balls back onto his waist, then raised his head and walked toward Xinhai.
"Congratulations, Trainer Bai Mu." Yano Keisuke wore a sincere smile as he took