The Elite Tournament was held at one of the Pokémon League's secondary venues. Though it lacked the grandeur of the main venue, it was still enormous and equipped with advanced facilities. Besides, this was essentially a friendly competition for exchanging experience, so it was more than adequate.
As for spectators, apart from a dozen or so Gym Leaders with time to spare scattered across the stands, there were only the Elite Four members present.
Steven and Drake walked to the center of the venue. Watching the young trainers from the four regions gradually arrive under the guidance of their respective Elite Four members, they felt a measure of reassurance.
These were the Pokémon League's future!
His gaze briefly swept over Yong, who stood at the head of the Hoenn team. Steven looked at the young people before him and spoke solemnly.
"First of all, every one of you is an outstanding trainer recognized by the Pokémon League, whether you qualified through a town tournament or received a recommendation from your family! Although you're all newcomers who began your journeys only a year or two ago, your talent and strength are clear for all to see!"
"Here, I hope you'll show us what you can do! Bring out your greatest strength and finest tactics, and battle one another without holding anything back or leaving any regrets!"
"Yeah!!!"
"Ah! I'm fired up!"
"It's Mr. Steven, Hoenn's Champion! And Mr. Drake, the Dragon-type Elite Four member!"
"Boohoo~ The Champion called me outstanding!"
The competitors were still young at heart, and excitement swept through the crowd. Yong stood quietly in place. Before coming out, he had already spotted several somewhat familiar figures in the corridor.
Even though their appearances differed slightly from the original story, he had still confirmed his suspicions!
Lance! Sato Lorelei!