The moment gossip came up, the livestream viewers went wild, lost themselves in it, and chatted like their lives depended on it.
In an instant, jokes and memes came thick and fast, filling the livestream with a cheerful atmosphere.
Iris couldn't help giggling at the amusing comments, feeling even more certain that starting this livestream had been worth it.
Meanwhile, Xia Chi, the subject of all that gossip behind his back, was discussing the battle rules with Drayden.
"Gym Leader Drayden, how about a 3v3 battle? With the Mega Evolution system allowed."
Xia Chi made the first suggestion, basing his decision on efficiency.
Drayden raised an eyebrow in mild surprise. "Not a full 6v6 battle? If I remember correctly, the Dark-type Specialist Tournament you're entering next uses standard full-battle rules. Why not take this opportunity to get used to them?"
Xia Chi paused.
Only after Drayden's reminder did he realize that he really hadn't fought a proper full 6v6 battle before.
His original plan had been to give Dragonair more practical experience and farm some fear along the way.
But on second thought, against an opponent of Drayden's caliber, trying to fight from start to finish with Dragonair alone would not only take ages, but also leave far too much to chance.
He still had important business waiting at Dragonspiral Tower, and time was limited.
After weighing the pros and cons, Xia Chi readily nodded. "You're right. Let's make it a full 6v6 battle, then. As for special systems, how about allowing Mega Evolution and Terastallization once each?"
A hearty, expectant smile appeared on Drayden's face as he declared, "That's how it should be!"
Since this would be a full battle rather than an exercise in farming fear, Xia Chi released Dragonair from its Poké Ball first.
The moment Dragonair