Inside the arena, the people were the same, and so was the layout.
The only difference, perhaps, was that the atmosphere had been tense from the very start today.
The Three Little Ones sat together, clearly affected as well. Their little faces were taut as they tried to look serious.
"It's so strange. Everyone looks really serious today..."
Ash was still the same restless boy at heart, and he couldn't help whispering to the other two.
Gary rolled his eyes at him and replied just as quietly,
"Hmph! Stupid Ash. Grandfather said Big Brother Yong is challenging a veteran Trainer today. Even Grandfather really admires his strength!"
Hearing this, Iris blinked her large eyes and asked,
"Really? Is it Elite Four Drake? He's really strong, isn't he?"
"Oh, I see..."
Ash nodded in realization, then flashed Iris a carefree grin.
"Don't worry! Big Brother Yong will definitely win!"
The boy's words were unusually firm. Perhaps he didn't care who Yong's next opponent was, but in his heart, Ash had always believed that Yong would claim the final victory!
They continued chatting quietly until a figure emerged from each of the competitors' tunnels on either side. Like everyone else in the stands, their attention was immediately drawn over.
Tap! Tap! Tap!
Crisp footsteps rang out as Miss Glacia, dressed in a long red gown and wearing a gentle smile, walked onto the Battlefield and took her place in the command area.
Her fiery attire seemed completely at odds with the type of Pokémon she specialized in. But those who knew her understood that although Miss Glacia was an expert in Ice-type Pokémon, her personality was passionate and full of energy.
The randomly selected Battlefield for this match was a mix of water and Rock type terrain, with rippling water covering more