One finalist had already emerged.
And the remaining spot
would be decided between Cynthia and Red.
Honestly,
Xia Yan felt that Cynthia had a slightly better chance of winning. After all, the two knew each other well, and he knew exactly what level Cynthia's strength was at.
Even if Lance faced Cynthia in battle, because of the type matchup, Cynthia would probably have a better chance of winning.
Still,
nothing was absolute.
Especially when Cynthia's opponent was Red.
The name "Red" alone represented limitless possibilities in the Pokémon World.
If he suddenly exploded with potential, then it was hard to say.
Although Xia Yan's involvement had made Lance, Cynthia, and the others stronger than they should have been originally,
the people he had influenced were not limited to Cynthia and the others.
Red, Blue, and the rest had also been greatly affected by him.
The title "Teacher Xia Yan" alone was enough to show just how much help and inspiration Xia Yan had given them.
And when it came to potential,
Red's talent might truly surpass Cynthia's and Lance's.
Especially after Xia Yan's Beedrill entered the Legendary Level, his understanding of this became even clearer.
Red
might become the first among their group, after Xia Yan himself, to have a Pokémon enter the Legendary Level.
After all, Red had battled Giovanni's Beedrill even earlier than Xia Yan had.
Most importantly,
he had won.
"Ladies and gentlemen! Let us welcome the two contestants participating in this final semifinal!"
"They are—"
"Sinnoh Elite Four, Cynthia!!"
"Rainbow Academy teacher, Red!!"
The host's impassioned voice introduced the two as they slowly emerged from the contestants' tunnel.
Facing the tidal cheers that resounded throughout the arena, Cynthia stepped out of the tunnel in an elegant, noble black gown. With her chin slightly raised and confidence