The Opelucid Gym stood within the renowned Opelucid Academy.
The academy's director was none other than Drayden.
Notably, Drayden also served as the mayor of Opelucid City.
Holding three positions at once, he naturally had little time to manage the Opelucid Gym.
After arriving in Opelucid City, Bai Shi waited several days before getting the chance to challenge Drayden to a Gym battle.
"I am Drayden, the Leader of the Opelucid Gym. Welcome, challenger."
"You'll need to give a performance that satisfies me to earn the Legend Badge."
A burly, middle-aged man in a white suit, sporting a thick beard, spoke to Bai Shi.
Despite his many duties, he always took challengers seriously.
In fact, he was even stricter than some other Gym Leaders.
"Gym Leader Drayden, I'll do my best. I look forward to learning from you."
Bai Shi nodded and replied politely.
Barring any surprises, this would be his last battle before the Vertress Conference began.
Bai Shi regarded it as a warm-up, but he would certainly give it his all.
"Each side may use two Pokémon. The match ends when all the Pokémon on either side are unable to battle."
"During the battle, the Gym Leader may not voluntarily switch Pokémon. The challenger may switch freely."
Once the referee finished announcing the rules, the Gym battle officially began.
"Go, Haxorus!"
Drayden chose Haxorus as his lead Pokémon.
"Haxorus is a Dragon-type, so I'll use an Ice-type Pokémon against it!"
"Walrein, I'm counting on you!"
After a moment's thought, Bai Shi sent Walrein onto the field.
"Walrein, use Blizzard!"
As soon as the match began, Bai Shi launched a fierce attack.
He intended to catch Haxorus off guard with Blizzard.
A biting storm of ice and snow poured from Walrein's mouth.
"Haxorus, use Protect!"
Drayden calmly issued his