The two Blaziken silently faced each other across a stretch of rocky ground. Their unique form of communication carried an understanding that transcended language, as though in that instant, they had completed some sort of mutual confirmation and recognition.
Xinhai stood to one side, watching the scene with a slight stir in his heart.
He had originally worried that his Blaziken might seem reserved or uncomfortable before an Elite-level senior like Flame Feather, but the facts proved his concern unnecessary.
Blaziken stood there with a straight back, blue eyes calm and steady, showing not the slightest hint of retreat before the other's presence—this composure alone said a great deal.
Flannery, standing beside Xinhai, watched the scene as well, a smile on her lips. "It seems Flame Feather is quite satisfied with your Blaziken, Xinhai."
"Yeah, I can tell." Xinhai nodded, his tone carrying a trace of relief. "If they couldn't get past this hurdle, the next two weeks of special training probably wouldn't go smoothly either. Now, I can rest easy."
"Don't worry." Flannery's voice carried a reassuring certainty.
"Over these two weeks, Flame Feather will teach your Blaziken all the experience and techniques they have accumulated over the years, bit by bit. By then, you'll have a completely transformed Blaziken."
She paused, her gaze shifting toward the Charizard group in the distance. "It's the same with Charizard."
"Old Fire may not move around much normally, but they have always been serious when teaching younger Pokémon. Your Charizard has a steady temperament and decent talent. Following Old Fire for two weeks, they will definitely learn quite a lot."
Following Flannery's gaze, Xinhai looked toward the Charizard territory shrouded in warm light, anticipating Charizard's progress after two weeks of special training.
"I believe in them." Xinhai withdrew his gaze, his voice