With the Double Battle tournament over, all the events around Lake Valor had drawn to a close.
This time, Young Master Mao had not only pocketed an appearance fee but also picked up a Soothe Bell along the way.
The thing was genuinely cheap in the System's shop, so Young Master Mao promptly sold it to Paul.
Hadn't he wanted to strengthen his bonds? Young Master Mao considerately told him that when affection fell short, items could make up the difference~
Paul thought that made perfect sense and decisively bought a pair of Soothe Bells. He planned to get a few more once he returned, string them into a wind chime, and hang it on himself. Wouldn't his affinity shoot right up then?
At the harbor that evening, he saw Jasmine, Brendan, May, and the others onto their passenger ship, bringing the busy day to a perfect close.
Back at the hotel, Young Master Mao had dinner with Lorelei, then turned in early.
After a night's rest, Young Master Mao, who planned to return to Jubilife City today before heading to Alamos Town, woke to discover that he was trending again.
Up early, Young Master Mao held a cup of coffee and scrolled through the news on his phone.
It turned out that video coverage of his Double Battle tournament victory had been released.
The discussion below was just as expected. Young Master Mao's fans were as good at stirring things up as ever.
"What? Young Master Mao beat up someone from his hometown again?"
"Exposé: a certain Pokémon Trainer from Pallet Town has been getting thrashed by Young Master Mao ever since his debut."
"Seriously, you brought a Turtwig to the finals? You're openly throwing the match against our god Brendan, huh..."
"Wasn't Young Master Mao away on business?