The next day, the performance round of the Wallace Cup's main competition came to a close.
As expected, Dawn and May both advanced, while Ash and Jessie barely made the cut.
That afternoon, the second round of the Double Battle competition officially began.
"Good heavens! Dawn and Kōhei's teamwork is flawless! Their opponents are down and out!"
With the commentator's excited cries, Dawn and Kōhei cleared the second round and advanced to the semifinals.
Next came the final match of the day: Gary and Paul against Kawada and Sly.
"Both sides, take your positions," the referee instructed.
"Zangoose! Go!" Kawada was a burly man with a rough appearance.
"Metagross! Take them down!" Sly, meanwhile, was dressed in the refined attire of an elite.
Paul and Young Master Mao nodded to each other. They had already decided on today's lineup.
"Ursaluna, prepare for battle!"
"Infernape, you're up!"
"Roar!" A powerful frame, a scarred, single eye, and a crimson Red Moon Infinity Gem atop the head.
A Hisui Pokémon from Young Master Mao's laboratory made its competitive debut!
"Hoo-ah..." Infernape visibly froze at the sight of the opposing Zangoose.
Young Master Mao's voice was gentle but firm. "Infernape, you're the Sinnoh Team's ace. Surpass your limits, right here!"
"Hoo-ah!" Infernape nodded hard, clenching those fists!
"Paul, you'll hold the line and handle defense this time." Gary turned to Paul. "I'm counting on you!"
Paul nodded solemnly. "Leave it to me, senior!"
The battle officially began!
"Zangoose, use Assault Claw on Infernape!" Despite his rough exterior, Kawada was meticulous. He targeted Infernape first to take some pressure off Metagross.
"Ursaluna, Double-Edge!" Paul's support was efficient and timely.
The massive Ursaluna charged at Zangoose, knocking the opponent flying.
"As long as I'm here, don't even think about attacking my senior!" Paul said coldly.
"Infernape,