The sight turned the Diplomat's face livid. He had never imagined that the Island-Hopping Challenge he was responsible for would end not merely in defeat, but in a complete rout.
With just two people, the opposing side had swept through all ten of theirs, even after they brought out Gym Leader Class Pokémon. This was undoubtedly a devastating blow to the Australia Alliance's prestige.
He could already see the bleak career ahead of him, and even the rival factions that would kick him while he was down.
No, I have to bring that Legendary Pokémon back. That's the only way to make up for my mistake! the Diplomat thought, already beginning to work out how to capture Xiao Ran and seize his Diancie.
Xiao Ran could not be bothered with him. Once the match ended, he recalled his Pokémon and went with Veranica to the medical station to collect those that had been receiving treatment.
This was not a proper tournament, and there was no closing ceremony or awards presentation. It was simply an event for the Australia Alliance to show off its strength. Unfortunately for them, it had now become a humiliation.
There was no need for the two of them to linger. After they exchanged a few compliments, Veranica went over to say goodbye, claiming she was tired from the match, then headed home with Xiao Ran.
Yun Mengqiu, however, was temporarily kept behind by the people of the Solomon Islands under the pretext of hospitality and getting acquainted. She could only resign herself to it. After all, an Elite Four member attracted attention wherever she went.
Fortunately, she was not the star of the day. She only had to meet a few people briefly and would be able to leave soon.
But the moment Yun Mengqiu stepped