Early the next morning, after breakfast, Chen Shi arranged for his companions to absorb the Mystery Realm Core Shards in the backyard.
Just then, Grandma Chen called out, "Shi, there's a phone call for you. Come here."
Chen Shi froze. Who's looking for me this early in the morning?
Still, he didn't delay. He hurried over to his grandmother, picked up the phone, and asked, "Hello, this is Chen Shi. What can I do for you?"
"Old Chen, it's me! I heard you're back!"
"Congratulations on becoming a Senior Researcher! I've been following everything that happened. You're amazing, Old Chen."
Steven's voice sounded in his ear, giving Chen Shi a pleasant surprise. He had only returned yesterday, and his good friend was already calling today.
"Steven! Yeah, I'm back. Come over when you have time. There are a few things I'd like to talk to you about."
He did have some things to discuss with Steven. He had been asking him to collect Mega Stones, but hadn't mentioned the Key Stones yet. With the Pokémon World Championships approaching, it was time to gather everything they needed.
On the other end, Steven thought for a moment before replying, "This afternoon, then. I'll come over this afternoon. Pheobe happens to be with me, so we can come together."
"No problem. It's settled, then," Chen Shi agreed at once.
After hanging up, Chen Shi went down to the basement to learn how to make top-grade potions from his grandfather.
Grandpa Chen had actually taught him many times already, but problems with certain techniques and details had kept him from successfully making a top-grade potion.
In the basement, Chen Shi held a measuring cup and focused completely on preparing the potion, not daring to let his attention stray.
Grandpa Chen watched beside him, offering