"Get up! Blastoise!"
With Red's shout and the fervent, confident look in his eyes, the Blastoise lying motionless on the ground actually trembled and shifted slightly.
"Blas... toise..."
With a weak cry, Blastoise braced itself on its arms and slowly, bit by bit, rose to its feet.
Under the disbelieving gazes of every spectator, Red's Blastoise really did stand unsteadily in the arena, its gaze weak yet resolute as it looked around.
"Blastoise!!"
Blastoise roared, carrying Red's will.
"B-Blastoise got back up!"
Because Blastoise had successfully stood back up, the battle that should have ended in a draw now had a result.
"So the winner is—Contestant Red!!"
One battle made him famous!
In this world, Red had already gained considerable fame through his earlier battles and his ranking in the points matches.
But the battle that truly established him as a top Trainer recognized by everyone was this victory against Cynthia.
And it was precisely because of this battle.
That everyone acknowledged that the suddenly appeared Red possessed the strength to stand at the pinnacle of the world.
As the final result was announced.
Red and Cynthia walked to the center of the field and shook hands according to Galar Region custom after a battle.
"Congratulations, Red."
Cynthia did not show any displeasure over her defeat. Instead, she sincerely congratulated Red.
Red scratched his head with an awkward laugh. "Sister Cynthia, I only got lucky this time."
Lucky?
Perhaps.
Cynthia pursed her lips in a smile. "Then, are you ready to face Xia Yan?"
Ready?
Red's eyes immediately filled with intense fighting spirit and longing.
The corners of his mouth slowly lifted.
"I'm ready."
It seemed as though he was talking to himself, yet also declaring his resolve.
"Ever since I lost to Teacher Xia Yan, I've been ready."
Scenes