Hearthome City.
This was a city where Pokémon and humans lived in harmony, and it had been voted the most livable city in the Sinnoh Region for many years running.
On his way to meet Cynthia, Li Wei could feel firsthand just how livable this city was.
The roads were smooth, and he passed plenty of young mothers with their children. Strollers were everywhere.
Hearthome City had a Ghost-type Gym, whose Gym Leader was Fantina.
However, Li Wei had no intention of challenging the Gym, and it was currently closed anyway.
He headed straight for Hearthome City's Super Contest Hall.
Cynthia and Wallace's match would soon be held there.
The Super Contest Hall.
Even from outside, he could hear the deafening cheers from within.
"Fantina! Fantina!"
Before Cynthia and Wallace's battle,
Fantina would face Brock, the rock-solid man from the Kanto Region whose resolve was tougher than steel.
The Master League offered generous prize money, and Brock had entered with his eyes on the cash. After all, he had a large family to support.
"Jiro's grown into his role anyway. He's more than capable of holding down the fort at the Pewter Gym."
Those were Brock's exact words in the group chat.
Wearing black sunglasses, Li Wei called Cynthia. "I'm at the venue, but I'm stuck outside the entrance."
"I'm doing my makeup. Wait by the entrance for now. A staff member will come find you."
When a staff member asked whether she had a photo of Li Wei, Cynthia paused thoughtfully.
"A photo... I don't think I have one. Sorry for the trouble. He should be easy to recognize. He'll be the first person you notice in the crowd."
Soon, a staff member handed Li Wei a gold-trimmed black card.
"You're Mr. Li Wei, correct?"
"Yes."
Li Wei accepted