Xia You was not particularly surprised that Jasmine recognized him.
Although he had competed in another region, Kanto and Johto shared the same continent and bordered each other closely. Apart from those like Morty, the Gym Leader of Ecruteak City, who only followed competitions in their own region, most Gym Leaders had a keen eye for such things.
They often broadened their horizons by watching matches. While they could not possibly watch every single one, they generally would not miss major contests like the semifinals and finals.
But... no matter how he looked at her, Jasmine seemed like such a delicate young woman. Quieter forms of entertainment felt more suited to her. It was hard to imagine her sitting in front of a television, her mood rising and falling along with a match!
All he could say was that she certainly lived up to being a woman who liked steel poles... no, Steel-type Pokémon. Beneath that frail exterior, her heart really did burn with passion!
These thoughts flashed through Xia You's mind.
After they shook hands and let go, Jasmine turned to Erika.
She studied Erika for a moment, looking thoughtful, then said in realization, "You're Miss Erika from the Celadon Gym, aren't you?"
"Huh?" This time, it was Erika's turn to be surprised. "You know me?"
Jasmine nodded. "My parents took me to Kanto when I was little, and we attended a tea party hosted by your family. I spoke to you then. I still remember accidentally falling over, and you tending to my wound yourself. Of course, it was quite a long time ago. You may have forgotten."
Erika truly had no recollection of this. "I'm sorry, I don't remember," she said apologetically.
"It's all right." Jasmine waved a hand, entirely unbothered. "We were both very young back