It was only eleven in the morning, and since it was still early, Xia You and Sabrina headed straight for the Blackthorn Gym.
Perhaps because it was ruled by a clan and influenced by its ancient heritage, the Blackthorn Gym looked dignified and imposing. Unlike other Gyms with their unusual designs, it resembled a manor, and once inside, they could feel a weighty sense of history in every corner.
There were many statues of Dragon-type Pokémon and Pokémon Trainers in the courtyard. Although Xia You did not know who they were or what glorious deeds they had performed, he supposed they were past Gym Leaders from the dragon-taming clan that managed the Blackthorn Gym, or powerful Trainers who had ventured out from here.
After they had died or retired, people had erected statues of them here, where they continued to silently watch over the Gym.
Passing through the courtyard, the two entered the Gym.
The spacious, brightly lit hall was silent, with exquisite murals and ornaments everywhere and a very luxurious carpet underfoot. Yet even after standing in the entrance hall for quite some time, they saw no reception staff.
"Is anyone here?"
Xia You called out softly, but even after a long wait, no one appeared. Just as he was about to venture farther inside to look for the staff, puzzled, he suddenly saw a familiar man coming down the marble staircase.
The man had fiery red, spiky hair and wore dark blue clothes beneath a black cape. Those distinctive features made him instantly recognizable-he was none other than Lance, one of the Elite Four!
"Oh? Mr. Lance?"
"It's you!" Lance was also surprised to see Xia You. "What are you doing here? Ah, what am I thinking? There's only one reason you'd come here. You must be here