A day after resolving the ghost incident, Summer received an unexpected request from Nessa, the Gym Leader of Hulbury Stadium.
Initially, Summer thought she wanted to challenge Milotic again, but Nessa clarified that it was a friend of hers who wanted to visit Sunset Forest.
Nessa didn't hold back and revealed that the friend was Bea, also a Gym Leader, who was currently seeking a quiet place to train.
Nessa immediately thought of Misty Lake in Sunset Forest, whose unique aura could quickly calm one's mind, perfectly meeting Bea's needs.
As Bea's friend, Nessa knew Bea's current state was not good. Worried about her, Nessa wanted to help her, so she took it upon herself to ask Summer to arrange a training spot for Bea.
Summer gladly accepted the request, as he was looking to increase his strength, and a Gym Leader like Bea was an excellent learning opportunity.
At the northern entrance of Sunset Forest, Bea waited for the ranger's guidance, as instructed by her concerned friend. Nessa had told her that getting lost in some strange place would be disastrous.
"Just standing at the entrance, you can feel the comforting aura. This forest is really something."
Bea stood straight, her entire body taut, never relaxing—a rule her parents had her follow.
"I've heard there are many high-quality Berries in Sunset Forest. I'm here to train; I can't let Nessa's kindness go to waste."
She took a deep breath, trying to calm her chaotic thoughts.
"This year, more trainers than ever passed the Circhester Gym challenge."
"Yes, it shows the rising strength of Galar's new trainers!"
"Indeed, especially since Bea is such an impressive Gym Leader. Defeating her is truly challenging!"
It's not that they've gotten stronger; it's that I've become weaker.
These words came from a brief TV talk show, another reason Bea couldn't calm down to train.
In the past, such things wouldn't shake her, but this was what her parents switched to after seeing her.
Her stern, tall father said lightly, "Bea, how's the preparation for this year's tournament? You must seize the chance to battle Leon; fighting those stronger than you is key to growth."
Her gentle mother smiled and said, "Yes, yes, even against a strong opponent like Leon, you must strive for a tie even if you can't win."
"I understand." Bea replied calmly, then went to train.
Since that day, she couldn't find peace, and her training effectiveness plummeted. How should the weakened me respond to my parents' expectations?
Bea, always suppressing her emotions, had few friends. People her age admired her as a genius, and she restrained her desires to avoid giving others any chance.
Not expressing warmth was to prevent others from taking advantage.
The deeper one sinks into unspoken confusion, the more they drown in their own created mire.
Fortunately, Bea had Nessa as a friend. Before Bea could break, Nessa listened to her outpouring, then sternly reprimanded her before treating her to her favorite cake.
Nessa believed Bea needed a place to rest quietly. Bea wanted to train, so they compromised on a quiet training spot.
With her friend's help, Bea's state improved, but she occasionally recalled those distractions. Hopefully, the place Nessa recommended would truly help.
"You're Bea, right? I'm Summer, the ranger of Sunset Forest." Summer greeted her with big strides.
The girl before him had healthy brown skin, short, neat gray-white hair, and eyes not as sharp as he imagined. She still wore her Circhester Gym uniform, and the tight black clothes around her waist showed well-trained muscles, proof of her regular training.
"That's right, pleased to meet you, Mr. Summer." Bea bowed respectfully.
No wonder Nessa highly praised this forest ranger. The Rillaboom behind him exuded strength, and the other unknown Pokémon looked mischievous but held unimaginable power within.
Most importantly, they looked quite happy.
"No need to be so formal. Relax." Summer said kindly.
"Ah, sorry. Please don't mind, it's just a habit of mine." Bea remained somewhat reserved.
It's rare to see someone not asking for my autograph. No, not everyone is my fan. I'm too self-centered. But can I meet fans' expectations now?
Galar Gym Leaders had large fan bases, and Bea was one of the most popular. Girls her age, fitness-loving uncles, martial arts masters—all were her fans.
Even when arriving in Sunset Forest by Flying Taxi, Bea signed an autograph for the driver.
"Anyway, you're heading to Misty Lake, right? Follow me." Summer didn't say more.
"Mm." Bea followed Summer, keeping the same distance.
Entering Sunset Forest, Bea felt a strange calmness. Even when distractions appeared, they quickly dissipated. It was magical.
The surrounding Pokémon also seemed at ease. Living here must be wonderful. Well, except for the Bug-type Pokémon, which seemed intensely hostile, never letting their guard down.
"Mr. Summer, have you ever thought of challenging a Gym?" Bea suddenly asked.
Ah, no wonder they're friends; they think alike. Summer shook his head and said, "No, because I'm happy with my current life and see no need to change."
"Happy?"
"Yes, very happy!"
Doing what you love naturally brings happiness. Am I happy?
Bea recalled her karate and battles, both conducted under her parents' strict demands. Do I really love them?
My answer is, I love karate! I love battling!
Ah, I remember. It was my joy in showing my talents to my parents that made them decide to help me grow.
Selling the house, working hard, making plans—they sacrificed a lot, so I want to meet their expectations.
"Bea, what's wrong?"
Summer noticed Bea suddenly froze and asked.
"Nothing, Mr. Summer."
Still the same emotionless tone, but Summer sensed Bea's eyes had sharpened. She seemed more spirited. Truly, these Gym Leaders are impressive.
Bea caught up with Summer in a few steps. I always loved battling, never forgetting the joy it brings. If I've gotten weaker, I'll just get stronger again.
"By the way, Bea, would you like to try some Berries from Sunset Forest? They're sweet." Summer asked.
"Sweet?" Bea swallowed. No, Bea, you just resolved to train hard. How can you slack off! Do you really love sweets that much?
Bea hesitated, then righteously said:
"Thank you. I'd love to try some."
(End of Chapter)