She'd known Dawn was someone special from the moment they met. A novice trainer determined to do her best, a girl full of energy and spirit and immeasurable kindness towards all pokemon. And after watching her bring Cyrus to his knees and tame the wild Giratina, Cynthia knew the girl had a bright futuer ahead of her.
So it was no surprise when Dawn approached her after her defeat of Lucian and gave her all in the ensuing battle. And despite her expression of surprise when Dawn emerged victorious, Cynthia had anticipated that as well.
"Congratulations," she said, "you are now the new champion of Sinnoh."
Dawn's cheeks reddened, and her eyes shone with tears of joy as they followed Professor Rowan into the hall of fame.
"I couldn't have done it without you," she said. "Well...you and my mother and Barry and Professor Rowan, but...well, you know what I mean!"
Cynthia smiled. Dawn had a lot of people cheering for her, but after their trip to the distortion world something different bonded the two of them and Cynthia couldn't think of anyone she'd rather have take her place as the champion.
People like Dawn only came along once in a lifetime.