Lake Valor, Lakeside Battle Arena.
After Dawn changed back into her everyday clothes, Nando and Zoey made a point of congratulating her.
"I still have to prepare for the Lily of the Valley Conference. Ash, next time, we'll be opponents."
Ash clenched his fist excitedly. "I won't lose, Mr. Nando!"
Nando tipped his hat. "Then I'll take my leave."
"What about you, Zoey?"
Zoey had already made up her mind.
"I'm going back to Snowpoint City first, then I'll travel around the Johto Region. They have Pokémon Contests there too."
The Johto Region, huh?
Dawn hadn't actually decided where she would travel next.
"Then I hope your journey goes well!"
Zoey gently hugged Dawn.
"I hope yours does too."
They parted after a brief embrace. Zoey put on her sunglasses and waved to Dawn and the others. "Goodbye."
"Mr. Li Wei, I'll come visit Jubilife City when I have time."
Li Wei nodded. "You're welcome anytime."
Zoey was unquestionably both a mentor and a good friend to Dawn.
When Dawn hit a low point, Zoey had helped her pull through.
As the more experienced Coordinator, whenever they met, Zoey would share what she had learned with Dawn.
Dawn had reached the finals and become Champion in her very first year, and her rival Zoey had played an important part in that.
It was their promise in Jubilife City that had kept Dawn working tirelessly to this day.
"Thank you, Zoey!!!"
Zoey didn't turn around. She simply waved with her back to them.
After witnessing Dawn's victory, Li Wei planned to ride Metagross back to Jubilife City.
Before leaving, Li Wei also called his parents and the others.
They each congratulated Dawn over the phone.
"Dawn, you were amazing!"
"Congratulations, Dawn!"
Lily's lips curled into a small smile. "Saiko's there