Just as Sayaka was about to be crushed, with Vespiquen not necessarily able to reach her in time, a blue mass of light suddenly caught them and lifted them up in the nick of time.
Fly!
Altaria activated the utility mode of Fly, using Flying-type energy to lift people and other things within its range into the sky, making falling over or being crushed a nonissue.
"Whew, thank goodness we made it."
Lisia patted her chest in relief, while Altaria chirped smugly.
"Uh..."
Shen Qi made an awkward sound...
Sayaka's Barrier Points were full. How could being crushed cause her any trouble...? The Organizers' Rescue Personnel and Pokémon hadn't even shown any intention of entering the field.
"Thank you."
"Of course... but your mask."
During Altaria's rescue, the strong winds and surging energy had blown Sayaka's mask away, exposing her scarred face to everyone and every camera.
"I..."
After a brief moment of panic, Sayaka quickly calmed down.
This was an opportunity, a chance to rekindle her confidence and face everyone anew.
Vespiquen and Aromatisse, who had just climbed back up from the ground, encouraged their Pokémon Trainer. Sayaka touched her face, then stepped forward openly and clasped Lisia's hand.
Both of them soon froze.
The venue was frighteningly quiet. It took them a few seconds to remember.
"There's a protective barrier!"
"Ah-I forgot!"
After all that fuss, Altaria's Barrier Points had dropped below 90% because of Toxic, which theoretically meant Altaria should have been ruled out.
"Hahahaha!!!"
"Hahaha!"
The venue erupted in uproarious laughter and applause.
In terms of the result, the finals of this festival exhibition tournament had delivered maximum entertainment!
"I concede." Sayaka laughed cheerfully and waved toward the referees.
There was nothing wrong with her concession. Even without Aromatisse's accidental fall after reverting from Dynamax, Lisia