The area around the field was lined with circular spectator stands, where nearly a hundred disciples in Gym uniforms were already seated. Some sat upright and proper, while others spoke in low voices, but all eyes were fixed on Xinhai, who had just entered.
On the command side across the field stood a figure Xinhai knew well.
Wallace wore a sharply tailored dark blue suit jacket over a white shirt, with a small length of pale blue silk scarf visible at his collar.
He was tall and stood perfectly straight. His long dark blue hair gleamed softly beneath the lights, and his lips carried that signature elegant smile.
Those crystal-clear eyes settled on Xinhai as Wallace smiled and spoke in a gentle, clear voice. "Long time no see, Xinhai."
Xinhai took his place in his command area, gently lifted Eevee from his shoulder and set it down by his feet. Then he looked up and replied with a smile, "It has indeed been a long time since we parted in Fortree City, Gym Leader Wallace."
Wallace nodded slightly. His gaze swept over the Poké Balls at Xinhai's waist and Eevee at his feet, and a glint of approval flashed through his eyes.
"I've been keeping track of your growth. From setting out from Petalburg City to reaching this point, winning seven badges along the way—you've taken every step steadily."
"Thank you for the compliment," Xinhai said with a smile. "But it seems this final badge won't be so easy to obtain."
Wallace gave a soft laugh and gently adjusted the scarf at his collar. "Naturally. The Sootopolis Gym's badge has never been something people could simply take away."
The two met each other's gaze for a moment. The warmth of their small talk quietly faded from the air, replaced by