The energy fluctuations from the two Pokémon's attacks took a long time to dissipate completely.
The dust slowly settled.
When everything finally fell still, the outcome of the battle became clear.
Amid the tumbling rubble, Steelix stirred, then slowly raised its body under everyone's stunned gazes.
Though it was in poor shape as well, compared with the completely unconscious Golem, it had undoubtedly claimed the final victory in this clash.
Roxanne breathed a sigh of relief, then smiled and took out a Pokémon Ball to recall Golem.
"I lost! As expected of the heir to 'Wuneng of Rock.' You're strong."
The burly boy-no, Wuneng Hao-also lost the excitement on his face and returned to his usual steady composure. He recalled Steelix as well, shook his head, and said in a hoarse voice,
"Rock, Ground, and Steel types are closely connected. I only won by a narrow margin. Your strength impressed me too, Gym Leader Roxanne. Meeting an opponent like you in my first battle after leaving my family makes me look forward to this trip through Hoenn even more!"
At the edge of the battlefield, something stirred in Yong's mind as he listened to their conversation.
Wuneng of Rock...
So he actually came from the ever-low-profile Wuneng clan?
With that thought, and now that their battle was over, Yong smiled and stepped onto the battlefield.
His movement drew surprised looks from the people who had been focused entirely on the battle.
Roxanne looked startled at first, then suddenly smiled and called out in delight,
"Yong!? What brings you here!?"
Hearing the call from across the battlefield, Wuneng Hao's eyes suddenly flashed. He stared intently at the boy walking toward Roxanne, taking in the seamless, unified presence he exuded...
Yong...
Shiyan Yong!
To think I'd meet him here!
A fierce fire