Sceptile's golden eyes slowly moved, its gaze first falling on its own claws—the green talons were longer and sharper than before, their curved tips carrying the keen edge of meticulous sharpening.
Then it raised its head and looked at Xinhai a few steps away, the corner of its mouth lifting into a faint, sharp smile.
Standing a few steps away, Xinhai looked at his newly refreshed partner, his eyes filled with undisguised approval and delight.
He stepped forward, looked up into Sceptile's golden eyes, and asked with a smile, "How does it feel? Is there anything you're not used to?"
"Cha!"
Sceptile slowly shook its head. The leaf on its right wrist lifted slightly and swept gently through the air—a slender arc of emerald energy skimmed from the edge of its Leaf Blade, releasing a light whistle through the air.
It lowered its head, a steady, satisfied gleam in its golden eyes, and gave a low cry. "Cha..." I'm fine...
Xinhai examined it carefully once more, his gaze moving from the longer leaves atop its head to the arm blades on both wrists, then to the emerald seeds on its back before finally returning to its eyes.
He reached out and patted Sceptile on the shoulder. Beneath his palm, it felt solid and warm, its taut muscles supple with strength. "Not bad. Go rest at the side for now and get used to your new body. You can take your time feeling it out later."
Sceptile nodded slightly and walked toward the edge of the training ground.
Its steps were steadier than before its evolution, every footfall carrying the composure of a powerful being. The stone slab beneath its feet gave a faint echo under its weight.
Charmeleon and Fraxure were the first to approach. With one more chance to