Ice Elite Four (Revised After Half an Hour)

Tetsuya returned smoothly to Mauville Gym in quite a good mood.

As a result,

even his gaze upon the roomful of documents became a little gentler.

"Do all these documents need signing?"

Tetsuya asked Watts a rather unnecessary question.

The latter nodded. "Yes, every one of them needs a signature, and I'll need to give you a detailed report on roughly one-third of their contents."

"Fine."

His previously good mood immediately sank somewhat.

The facts proved

that tedious, boring clerical work really could make someone want to die.

Especially after getting used to the adventurous life of a Trainer.

After seven straight days of repetitive work,

even Tetsuya, whose energy seemed ready to burst through the roof, could not hold out any longer.

Fortunately,

all the accumulated affairs from before had been properly dealt with.

"Phew—"

After signing the final document,

Tetsuya let out a long breath. "At last, I can take it a little easier for the next few days."

"You've worked hard."

Watts, whose complexion was equally haggard, gave him a very respectful bow.

Over the past week, this person in charge appointed by Wattson had also barely had any lengthy breaks, just like Tetsuya.

After all,

he did not have Psychic-type abilities or exceptionally strong physical fitness to support him.

Tetsuya greatly admired him for that.

Likewise,

Watts's respect for the young man before him was not merely an act.

Though Tetsuya was only temporarily serving as Gym Leader for assessment purposes,

the dedication he had displayed over the past week even made Watts feel that he ought to have a proper talk with his teacher, Wattson, afterward and tell him to take a little responsibility.

"Perfect. Tomorrow is Saturday, so I'll give you the day off."

Tetsuya said to Watts, "Don't refuse. If this continues, your