In the blink of an eye, the next day arrived. Paul did not stay; he left the town of Saffron early that morning, saying he was heading north through Sinnoh. Liu Qing, who was staying to enter the hot-air balloon competition, was overwhelmed. Thanks to his battle with Paul and the spectators spreading the word, he had practically become a celebrity. Pokémon Trainers kept challenging him. If he had not used the upcoming hot-air balloon competition as an excuse to turn them down, they would have worn him out.
"Nurse Joy, which shop in town makes the best hot-air balloons?" Since he was entering the competition, choosing a good balloon was crucial. Rather than asking around on the streets, he figured he would be better off asking Nurse Joy.
"Buying a hot-air balloon? Oh, right, you're entering the competition! Generally, hot-air balloon enthusiasts make their own balloons. Only a balloon filled with its maker's passion will respond to them and carry them to victory..." At Liu Qing's question, Nurse Joy seemed to become a different person. Her eyes gleamed as she explained the true spirit of hot-air balloon competitions.
"Um, Nurse Joy, even if I wanted to make one myself, there isn't enough time!" Liu Qing said meekly.
"Then there's nothing we can do!" Nurse Joy fell silent for a moment before continuing, "The people selling hot-air balloons in town are usually enthusiasts themselves, and they'll definitely be competing. So buying a balloon suitable for the competition simply isn't an option!"
"How could this happen?" Liu Qing froze, left speechlessly appealing to the heavens.
"However..." Seeing his dazed expression, Nurse Joy gave a slightly mischievous smile. "I think someone might be able to help you!"
"Really? Who?" Liu Qing's eyes lit up, and he hurriedly asked.
"Far beyond the horizon...