The awards podium.
"Congratulations! You've earned this Water Pillar Medal!"
Wallace personally pinned the ribbon to Baimu's chest, then gave his shoulder a meaningful pat. "Baimu, you're an outstanding Coordinator, and you deserve the praise. I'll look forward to your challenge."
The audience erupted.
Countless spectators gazed excitedly at the two figures on the podium.
Wallace praised the winner at the end of every Wallace Cup, but this was the first time he had ever said he looked forward to a challenge.
Did he really think that highly of Baimu?
The live director in the control room slapped his thigh with delight. That guaranteed ratings for the rerun. It might even send the Wallace Cup trending!
What a rare opportunity!
Wallace, who always did as he pleased, had actually helped create a buzz!
Amid the strange atmosphere filling the venue, only a handful of people understood what Wallace really meant.
A Gym Challenge!
Having qualified for the Grand Festival, Baimu would make Sootopolis Gym his final stop on the way to the Hoenn League Conference.
Back in Fallarbor Town, Steven had mentioned during a chat that Wallace was looking forward to Baimu's challenge. He had also suggested Baimu change the order of his Gym Challenges and visit Sootopolis for his eighth Badge.
"I'm grateful."
Baimu bowed slightly.
Beside him, Shiny Milotic met the gaze of Wallace's Milotic and received an encouraging look.
"Milo~"
Taking that encouragement with its usual innocent—and rather foolish—enthusiasm, it wagged its tail happily.
Boom!
Splash—
The towering column of water scattered into a dazzling flower. Beneath the blazing sun, Wallace and his Milotic brought the closing ceremony to an end with a performance as superb as ever.
And with that, the Wallace Cup was officially over.
At the Sootopolis City docks, Baimu, Dawn, and Brock