Chen Shi's attitude toward life was simple: life was short, so enjoy it while you could.
His previous life had been hard enough. Now that he had finally made it to the Pokémon world, why should he wear himself out all over again?
Other people's expectations?
Like I gave a damn!
While everyone fell silent, Chen Shi seemed to realize someone was missing.
"Oh, right, why haven't I seen Wallace or Winona? He's the host here, so where is he?"
Steven replied, exasperated, "Old Chen, didn't we just tell you?"
"A lot of the people who went in to train haven't come out yet, including Wallace."
"What?" Chen Shi was startled. "Wallace hasn't come out?"
Steven nodded slightly. "That's right. They still haven't found him."
"I heard the Sootopolis City Gym Leader is frantic."
The corner of Chen Shi's mouth twitched. Well, damn. Even Wallace hadn't made it out.
That really was a surprise.
Just then, Diantha looked at him and said, "Chen Shi, Professor Sycamore from our Kalos Region would like to invite you over for a visit. He says he's made an important discovery."
"Professor Sycamore?" Chen Shi thought for a moment, then nodded in agreement.
"Sure. When do we leave?"
Diantha froze, then asked delightedly, "You're agreeing?"
"Why wouldn't I?" Chen Shi shrugged with a smile. "I really admire Professor Sycamore, too. We agreed ages ago that we'd exchange ideas, but the Mystery Realm kept pushing it back."
"Now that everything's over, I can't keep turning him down, can I?"
"Great! If you're available, how about tomorrow?" Diantha said immediately.
Professor Sycamore had contacted her after she returned to Sootopolis City.
He had told her to make sure she invited Chen Shi to the Kalos Region, and the sooner, the better.
Originally, Diantha hadn't held out much