Amity Square.
The central clearing.
Trainers and Bug-type Pokémon who had been scattered throughout the square gathered there, their faces full of anticipation or curiosity.
"Someone's actually challenging the Elite Four!"
"I heard he's competing in the World Championships. He's ranked pretty high."
"The World Championships! I know that one! It's been all over the internet lately—the tournament to decide the strongest trainer in the world!"
"The strongest? Has Cynthia agreed to that? Hahaha!"
People chatted while the Bug-type Pokémon chittered around them. Nearly every gaze settled on the two people at the center of the crowd.
Compared with Baimu, who somehow made people uneasy, the confident, sunny, handsome Aaron drew far more attention.
After all, he was widely acknowledged as a "pretty boy."
Well.
By the people of Sinnoh.
Aaron planted his left hand on his hip, a slight smile curving his lips, and called out, "My friend! I'm making an exception this time! Normally, I don't accept challenges outdoors on a whim!"
"Thank you."
Baimu responded and tapped at his phone.
Bzz—
A low hum approached from the distance.
A Rotom Drone flew in from who knew where. Spotting the two below, it announced loudly:
"This match has been confirmed as a Great Ball Class battle. The contestants are—Aaron versus Baimu!"
Aaron was in the Great Ball Class, but it seemed the match category was determined by whichever contestant held the lower rank.
At the sound of Baimu's name, Aaron paused.
Why...
Did it sound familiar?
Before he could think it through, the Rotom Drone announced the rules: a two-on-two Single Battle.
"Contestants, please choose your Pokémon!"
Aaron quickly collected himself and exchanged a glance with the Scizor beside him.
"Actually, I'll leave this to you! Yanmega!"
A Poké Ball flew out.
Bang!
White light flashed.
A giant