The crowd's cheers delighted Steelix.
"Roar!"
It threw back its head and roared, proudly showing off its mountain-sized body as it basked in everyone's attention.
This guy!
Baimu looked at Steelix, torn between laughter and exasperation. He made no move to stop it, merely turning to the returning Porygon2. "Thanks for the effort!"
"Pory~"
Porygon2 beamed.
Baimu had sent it out in consecutive matches to promote Porygon as a remarkable Pokémon, but right now, the audience was clearly more interested in Super-Gigantic Steelix.
Had the promotion failed?
Of course not.
He knew the media and competitors who had come specifically to watch would not overlook Porygon2's contributions.
These two Double Battles had showcased Porygon2's support capabilities perfectly.
Whether it was the decisive Trick Room, the Electroweb that stopped Blizzard, or the way it trapped opponents, each had played a crucial role.
In the third round, it would be time to show what Porygon2 could do on offense.
Baimu shook hands with the admiring Lede, then took out a Poké Ball to recall Steelix. Steelix refused.
"Roar~"
Steelix pulled its enormous head back, then turned for one last longing look at the spectators who adored it.
It really loves being popular...
Baimu sighed helplessly and beckoned. "All right. Lower your head. I'll ride you back."
Steelix paused, then looked delighted. It lowered its head for its trainer to climb aboard, and once Baimu was steady, it strutted toward the exit.
In an instant.
A noisy crowd followed Steelix out. Lisia and the others could not even get close.
People packed the passage outside the stadium. Steelix took its sweet time moving forward, while Baimu, perched on its head, managed a strained smile as he answered the calls around him. For some reason, he felt like an animal on display at a