Two days had passed since Xerneas left with Mewtwo.
Early that morning, Chen Shi took some time to make himself presentable.
After straightening his collar and finishing the breakfast Grandma Chen had made, Chen Shi opened the downstairs door to find Steven and his father approaching with a group of professors.
One glance told Chen Shi that Steven had done an excellent job.
Professors from practically every major region were here.
Even Professor Elm, the future professor of the Johto Region, and Professor Magnolia of the Galar Region had come.
Of course, most of the professors had brought someone along. Professor Carolina had brought Cynthia, while Professor Magnolia had brought her granddaughter, Sonia.
Chen Shi stepped forward with a smile. "Welcome to my humble home, professors. I'm truly honored to have you here."
Professor Oak chided him with a laugh. "All right, enough of that nonsense. You know what we're all like. Spare us the formalities."
Professor Kukui laughed heartily. "Exactly, Professor Chen. We're all researchers here. There's no need for polite pleasantries."
"Big Brother Chen Shi, we meet again!" Alain waved excitedly.
Chen Shi nodded to Alain, then addressed the professors. "I know your time is valuable, so I won't beat around the bush. Please follow me to my laboratory."
The professors readily agreed. They preferred getting straight to the point anyway.
With Chen Shi leading the way, everyone arrived at the laboratory at the foot of Back Mountain.
Without stopping, Chen Shi took them straight to the innermost part of the laboratory.
The various precision instruments in the room failed to draw their attention. Instead, their gazes went straight to a black cactus beneath a transparent glass cover in the very center.
"Chen, my boy, what's this?" Professor Birch asked, puzzled.
"I'll explain in a moment." Chen Shi