The Pastoria Gym stood on the outskirts of Pastoria City. It was a cylindrical, three-story building with pale purple walls, blue pillars, and an orange roof.
As Pastoria City's official Gym, it attracted plenty of challengers, especially with the Great Marsh nearby! After registering for this year's Lily of the Valley Conference at the Pokémon Center and waiting for a long time, Yong finally managed to book a challenge slot with Nurse Joy's help!
Now, with Reggie and Akemi behind him, Yong stood outside the Pastoria Gym with them, waiting to enter.
Yong felt rather helpless.
"I never thought it'd be this hard to get into the Pastoria Gym!"
Reggie smiled and said,
"The Pastoria Gym isn't that strong, and Mr. Crasher Wake is very friendly. He's especially welcoming to beginners. Add in all the visitors the Great Marsh brings to Pastoria City, and it's no surprise the Gym gets so many challengers!"
Yong nodded. Of course he understood.
"No wonder Mr. Crasher Wake's strength has stayed so consistent! He probably doesn't have any time to train, does he? He really has it tough."
Akemi rolled her eyes at him.
"You're trying to say Mr. Crasher Wake isn't strong, aren't you?"
Yong gave an awkward smile. Just as he was about to explain, the Pastoria Gym's doors opened!
A cheerful boy with short brown hair walked out. Looking at the crowd outside, he smiled and said,
"Mr. Yong is next! Please follow me!"
"I'm here!"
After calling out, Yong smiled at the other two.
"It's finally my turn! I'll head in first!"
Reggie waved him on encouragingly.
"Give it your best! Don't mess it up! Akemi and I will head to the stands!"
The three said their goodbyes, and Yong turned to follow the boy into the Gym.
Much like