Steven and his two companions clearly hadn't expected Professor Oak and Mustard to be there too. They paused in surprise when they saw them, then bowed slightly in greeting.
"Since you have more guests, we'll leave you to it."
Professor Oak smiled at Xia Chi. "Keep in touch after you head back, and don't forget what you promised me."
"Don't worry, Professor Oak," Xia Chi replied. "How could I possibly forget something like that?"
Mustard waved at Xia Chi as well. "Kid, come find this old man on the Isle of Armor for a battle when you've got time!"
Xia Chi joked, "Do I get a Kubfu if I win?"
Mustard chuckled. "That depends on what you're capable of, kid."
Xia Chi agreed with a smile.
After watching Professor Oak, Mustard, and Blue leave, Xia Chi turned to Steven and his companions.
"Please, have a seat."
"Sorry, I don't have any tea or refreshments to offer you here," Xia Chi said apologetically. "I hope you'll forgive me."
Steven smiled faintly. "We're the ones who should apologize, disturbing you this late."
Hoenn's Young Noble had impeccable manners, and with the two water-loving artists beside him, the effect was even stronger.
The moment the three sat down, they radiated refined, gentlemanly elegance.
Xia Chi almost felt as though he should be at a gala in a tuxedo, holding a goblet.
High society!
Putting his playful thoughts aside, Xia Chi said, "You're not disturbing me at all. It's an honor to meet the three of you."
Juan shook his head with a chuckle. "No, young Xia Chi, you were the star of tonight's press conference."
With the exchange of polite flattery out of the way, they got down to business.
Steven went straight to the point. "To be frank, we came primarily to