Besides its Pokémon Contest venue, Hearthome City also had a large arena-the same place where Liu Qing had competed in the Friendship Tournament. This Grand Festival was being held there, on a dazzling stage that had been renovated to meet the festival's aesthetic and battle standards. The contestants were staying at a luxury hotel owned by the League, which hosted a welcome party for them after nightfall.
Thanks to Liu Yuan and Lusana, Liu Qing and Cynthia were able to enter the party hall with them and enjoy the completely free food. They also met Drew and the others there. After several years of traveling and competing in the same regions, the group had clearly grown close. Even Harley, who had always been up to some mischief, seemed so changed that Liu Qing almost failed to recognize him.
The night passed uneventfully. Early the next morning, Liu Qing and the others rose bright and early. Seeing Liu Yuan and Lusana ready to go, Liu Qing smiled. "You both look full of energy. I take it you've got yourselves into peak condition!"
"Of course! Every one of my Pokémon is in perfect condition for this tournament. We're going all the way for the championship!" Liu Yuan said spiritedly.
"Me too! I'm definitely winning this time!" Lusana fixed Liu Yuan with a fiercely competitive gaze, refusing to back down.
"All right, all right. Don't forget there are plenty of strong competitors here. You two aren't the only ones aiming for the championship!" Cynthia said, her eyes curving with her smile as she watched them square off.
"We know. With May, Drew, Saori, and Harley here, we wouldn't dare let our guard down!" Liu Yuan said seriously. Lusana nodded in agreement this time. Clearly, those four put considerable pressure on them both.
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