Lorelei smiled faintly. Just as Yong had predicted, she sent out Dewgong!
In the stands, Wallace said softly,
"This contestant, Lorelei, comes from the Orange Islands. She's the legitimate daughter of this generation of Ice Sato."
When Steven did not respond, Wallace shrugged helplessly and said,
"Though both of them come from powerful families or ancient clans, Ice Sato has stronger foundations and more resources than the Draconids, who spent years in seclusion before being forced to rejoin the world. Aren't you worried at all?"
Steven smiled and said,
"What's there to discuss when we can already see how the match will end? Still, A Xing represents Hoenn, and Meteor Village is an ancient clan friendly to the Pokémon League. We ought to support her!"
His gaze swept over the contestants in the front row. Steven rested his hands behind his head and smiled a little lazily.
"Rather than watching these families compete with the Pokémon League for resources, I'd prefer to see someone break this balance! Inject some new life into the League!"
Wallace nodded.
"The resources monopolized by the powerful families and ancient clans have certainly exceeded the League's expectations. And the old man is still alive..."
Drake looked solemnly at Steven and said in a low voice,
"Whether we can strengthen the League's top-level forces depends on this opportunity. The Elite Four can act as a considerable deterrent, but the real deterrent comes from you, Steven. You should understand that!"
"Ah..."
Steven's voice drifted, sounding distant yet close at hand.
"A Champion... reaching Champion-level..."
Steven shook his head helplessly.
"Let's stop thinking about something so agonizing. Apart from Professor Oak back then, no one has come close to that realm in years..."
Wallace and Drake fell silent. Then Wallace suddenly chuckled softly.
"Perhaps it won't take that