Amid the audience's cheers, Young Master Mao and Tyson shook hands, putting their rivalry to rest. Tyson's Ever Grande Conference had come to an end.
"I never thought that after preparing for years, I'd only make the top sixteen." Tyson shook his head with a bitter smile.
"Don't lose heart. You can always start again. Meowth and the others are counting on you." Young Master Mao gave him an earnest pat.
"Thank you for your guidance. You've shown me once again just how vast the world is." Completely convinced, Tyson bowed slightly.
"No need to be so formal." Young Master Mao waved a hand. "Meowth and your other Pokémon worked very hard too. Go have a good meal and get some proper sleep.
"You fought well. I look forward to seeing your future. You'll grow even stronger."
"Thanks. I'll keep visiting new places to hone my skills-and find more good food." Patting his belly, Tyson let go of his worries and left with a smile.
As for Young Master Mao, faced with the reporters clamoring for attention, he decided to oblige them.
"As everyone knows, Tyson is an outstanding Pokémon Trainer...
"I believe this victory came down to both skill and luck.
"Yes, he had a chance of beating me too.
"If the opportunity arises, I would certainly look forward to facing him again on another stage..."
The reporters grew increasingly baffled. Wait, when had he prepared this speech? It sounded awfully reusable!
Young Master Mao raised his eyebrows and made a graceful exit... Please, this was a universal formula put together by Overgrow Company's PR department. You think I'd let you find a flaw?
Passing through the competitors' tunnel, Gary happened to run into Brendan, who had left the arena earlier.
"How did it go?" Gary asked with a