Unlike a normal Contest, this time Wallace would serve as a special judge, increasing the judging panel from three to four.
The judges were Wallace, Nurse Joy of Sootopolis City, Susaki, and Raoul Contesta.
Under Vivian's introduction, the first contestant finally took the stage.
"Next, let's welcome contestant Ichiraku from Sootopolis City! Let's see what kind of wonderful performance he'll bring us!"
As a local contestant, Ichiraku already had the advantage of home support. Even before he appeared, the audience erupted into warm applause.
Amid cheers, a young man in neutral attire stepped onto the stage. After giving a graceful bow, he released his Pokémon—Typhlosion.
It was a surprising choice.
In a city surrounded by water, most Trainers used Water-type Pokémon. A Fire-type like Typhlosion stood out immediately.
Still, the audience quickly settled down and focused on the performance.
"Lava Plume!"
Flames erupted skyward, bursting like fireworks. The blazing arcs lit up the stage beautifully.
But it didn't stop there.
The falling sparks were guided back onto Typhlosion's body, making it shimmer brilliantly.
As it absorbed the fiery glow, the flames on its back surged even higher, displaying its full charm.
This wasn't a beginner's performance.
Ichiraku clearly understood the essence of Contests—his execution was nearly flawless.
95 points.
The audience was stunned.
The very first contestant had scored an impressive 95.
"That's incredible! He's definitely advancing!"
"That performance showed Typhlosion's beauty perfectly!"
In the stands, Dawn widened her eyes in excitement. Watching a Contest live was far more thrilling than watching videos.
She couldn't wait to see her mother—and Sam—take the stage.
---
As the competition continued:
"85 points from Ever Grande City."
"88 points from Rustboro City."
Halfway through, most scores hovered between 80 and 90. Scores above 90 were rare.
And only Ichiraku remained above 95.
---
"The next Coordinator is truly special!"
"She is a Top Coordinator and a Contest Celebration winner!"
"Please welcome Johanna from Twinleaf Town in the Sinnoh Region!"
Even Raoul Contesta straightened up at the announcement.
He had personally invited Johanna to participate.
But in truth, it wasn't him who brought her here—
It was Wallace.
Back in her era, Coordinators weren't respected. Many Trainers looked down on them.
But everything changed after Wallace rose to prominence.
He elevated the entire profession.
Now, Coordinators stood proudly alongside Trainers.
For veterans like Johanna, that change meant everything.
And seeing Wallace in person—that was her real reason for coming.
---
Amid thunderous applause, Johanna stepped onto the stage.
"Let's go—Kangaskhan!"
The audience blinked in surprise.
A large, rugged Pokémon like Kangaskhan wasn't exactly what people expected in a Contest.
With a gentle smile, Johanna lifted her dress slightly and said:
"Use Surf."
A wave surged forward.
At first, it seemed ordinary.
The audience grew confused.
That's it?
This didn't match the level expected from a Top Coordinator.
But then—
The wave kept growing.
Higher.
Stronger.
And suddenly—
Kangaskhan tossed the baby from its pouch into the wave.
The crowd gasped.
The baby Kangaskhan landed perfectly—
—and began surfing.
The tiny figure riding massive waves created a stunning contrast.
Cute.
Dynamic.
Unforgettable.
The entire audience exploded with excitement.
"What an incredible performance!" Raoul Contesta praised.
"I Mega love this!" Susaki added.
"Flawless execution and creativity," Wallace concluded.
The final score:
98 points.
The highest score so far.
Almost perfect.
In a Contest judged this strictly, 98 was extraordinary.
It proved one thing—
Johanna had completely conquered the stage.
---
"That's amazing!!! Mom is the best!!!"
In the audience, Dawn jumped up, shouting with excitement.
Her face lit up with pride.
She wanted everyone to know—
That brilliant performer on stage…
was her mother.