"The winner is decided! The fourth match of the Masters Eight knockout round is over! Baimu has secured a coveted place in the semifinals!"
The announcer's voice rang throughout Wyndon Stadium. A tidal wave of cheers rose to the sky, and excitement swept through the crowd. Spectators from every corner of the world flushed with exhilaration.
In front of screens across the world, people cheered together, genuinely delighted that Baimu had advanced.
It was only the first round, but every opponent in the Masters Eight was Champion-caliber. And Baimu had faced Steven, the Champion of Hoenn!
The strength Baimu had shown made him look every bit like a contender for the summit.
How could any of his supporters keep from getting excited?
He can win!
Shan Ren clenched his fist. He could almost see the moment Baimu claimed the World Champion's throne.
But an intense fighting spirit beside him soon drew his attention. It came from Leon, who was also backstage.
The reigning World Champion's eyes gleamed. His competitive fire seemed ready to reach through the screen and burn Baimu to ashes.
Why?
Because once Baimu's place in the semifinals was confirmed, the bracket on the stadium's giant screen revealed the next matchups.
The first semifinal: Ash versus Cynthia. The second: Leon versus Baimu.
The two strongest contenders for the title were set to meet in the semifinals!
Cheers rang even louder through the stadium, but Shan Ren's breath caught.
They had to meet sooner or later, but if he had his way, Baimu would face Leon in the final.
Not the semifinal.
This was a battle between the very best!
"Hahaha! I can't wait!"
Leon laughed and turned away under the admiring gazes of the staff.
He had been Galar League chairman for less than half a year, yet