167. Farewells

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"Ladies and gentlemen, the Indigo League, which has lasted for half a month, is finally coming to an end. Let's give a round of applause to welcome all the trainers and Pokémon as they make their final appearance!"

The main torch burned brightly, illuminating the evening sky as the sun dipped below the horizon at 6 p.m.

Amid the enthusiastic voice of the announcer, over 200 trainers formed orderly lines, emerging from the player tunnels on either side of the stadium.

Each trainer was accompanied by a Pokémon, waving to the cheering audience. Fans in the stands rose to their feet, clapping and calling out the names of their favourite participants.

Though these trainers were eliminated early in the competition, they returned to the Indigo Plateau after being invited by the Pokémon League to participate in the closing ceremony.

However, not every trainer chose to return arrogant competitors like Gary Oak would likely decline to revisit the scene of their loss.

Still, the absence of a few didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd, who eagerly celebrated on the same field where intense battles had been fought.

In the stands, Misty and Brock joined the applause, scanning the lines of trainers for a familiar face. It didn't take long for them to spot Ash, walking side by side with Richie.

With Pikachu perched on both their shoulders, the two looked almost like twins. However, Ash's nervousness was evident his stiff movements made him look like a puppet on strings, causing Misty to burst into laughter, nearly doubling over.

After ten minutes, the trainers completed their lap around the field and assembled in front of the podium to listen to President Charles Goodshow's closing speech.

As in the opening ceremony, his remarks were short yet heartfelt, earning unanimous applause.

Following the speech, the trainers were called up one by one to receive their participation souvenirs.

These beautifully crafted mementoes, resembling a pair of closed wings, opened to reveal a golden Poké Ball badge symbolizing the Pokémon League.

It was a token of recognition for their efforts and achievements.

Finally, the ceremony transitioned to its most anticipated moment the awards presentation.

Kai led the way to the podium, followed by Andrew and Lily, the second and third-place finishers.

As the champion of this year's Indigo League, Kai watched as President Goodshow first awarded Andrew and Lily their silver and bronze medals before turning to him.

"Congratulations, young man," Goodshow said warmly. "Your performance was exceptional. I have high hopes for your future keep working hard, and I'm sure you'll achieve even greater success."

Kai nodded solemnly. "Thank you, Mr. President. I'll do my best."

With that, Goodshow placed the gold medal around Kai's neck and handed him a trophy shaped like a Poké Ball.

A photographer stepped forward to capture the moment, preserving it for posterity.

As camera flashes lit up the stage, the crowd's cheers grew louder, though some eliminated trainers couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy.

By now, night had fallen, and just as Kai raised his trophy and waved to the crowd, the stadium lights suddenly went out.

Gasps of surprise rippled through the audience before the sky erupted in a dazzling fireworks display, painting the night with vibrant patterns and lighting up the festive atmosphere.

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After the ceremony, Kai and his companions gathered at a nearby restaurant to celebrate. The room buzzed with excitement as dozens of people toasted their success.

Amid the festivities, Kai found himself drinking more than he intended. By the time he returned to his room, his head was spinning, and the faint smell of alcohol lingered.

With a heavy sigh, he collapsed onto the soft bed, staring at the ceiling. The reality of his victory his gold medal, trophy, and a generous prize of over 300 million Poké Dollars still felt like a dream. Even after taxes, the remaining sum left him a millionaire overnight.

Kai glanced at his phone, which was flooded with congratulatory messages. Finally having a moment to breathe, he began replying to them one by one.

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Morning brought goodbyes. Chloe left first, accompanying Professor Cerise back to Vermilion City to resume her studies. Though she seemed reluctant to part ways with Kai, life called her back to reality.

Ash, Misty, and Brock were also preparing to leave for Pallet Town, where Delia and Professor Oak had arranged a celebratory banquet in Ash's honour.

Despite only reaching the top 16, it was a remarkable achievement for his first league competition.

With farewells exchanged, the dormitory emptied, leaving only Kai, Sabrina, and the biker gang members Misha and Martha.

Kai approached Misha with an idea. "What are your plans now that the tournament's over?" he asked.

"Plans?" Misha looked puzzled. "Nothing special, I guess."

Kai nodded thoughtfully. "I want to fund a place for you, a base of operations where you can hang out and rest, and this can also be a passive source of income for me. It could be a bar, a pool hall, or something similar. That way, you won't have to camp out in the wild anymore."

Misha's eyes lit up. "Really? Boss, you're amazing!"

Kai smiled and transferred 200 million Poké Dollars to her. "It's up to you now. I trust you."

Touched, Misha promised to manage the project responsibly. With that, the biker gang bid farewell, leaving Kai alone with Sabrina.

"So," Kai asked, "are you heading back to Saffron City?"

To his surprise, Sabrina shook her head. "No. I've decided to take a break from being a Gym Leader and travel with you instead."

Kai blinked. "What? Travel with me?"

Sabrina smirked. "Why, is that a problem?"

"No! Of course not!" Kai said, grinning. "With someone like you around, the journey will be even more exciting."

Sabrina smiled warmly. "So, where are we headed next, Champion?"

Kai pointed south. "The Orange Islands. Let's go!"

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