The Elite Four Ranking Match finals' first round would be conducted in a 4V4 doubles consecutive battle format.
The current Elite Four were automatically assigned to four groups, while the twelve finalists could make their own selections.
Sato chose Elite Four Gouming, who specialized in Psychic-type Pokémon.
At the same time, each group would compete simultaneously across four arenas.
Everyone had to fight two matches per day, and the top eight would be decided after just two days! The pace was so fast it was dizzying.
"Having to command eight Pokémon in battle every day, and in doubles too—the intensity is insane!"
George glanced at the astonished Mark, thinking that the mascot had finally grown up and even knew what match intensity was.
Sato would surely be very gratified to hear that!
The very gratified Sato had already arrived at the arena assigned to his group.
On a floating platform raised beside the field, four cards lay quietly in place.
"Please draw one card each. The two contestants with matching letters will compete first," the referee explained softly from beside the platform.
As soon as he finished speaking, Xinyuan Hai had already extended his left hand and swiftly taken the third card.
The other three all looked at him, while Xinyuan Hai merely gave an embarrassed smile, as though he had simply been too excited just now.
"You should draw too."
At that moment, the referee urged them again.
Sato blinked, seeming to understand something, before casually taking the second card.
"A!"
Sato murmured softly, then turned to look at the others.
Gouming had already spread out his card, and it bore an "A" as well! On the other side, Xinyuan Hai's "C" and Charlotte's "D" clearly meant they would not be fighting first.
Facing Gouming right away? Sato