Cool-toned lights illuminated the area on the Battle Tower's top floor.
The layout was simple and plain, with only a massive battlefield and curved spectator stands flanking it.
This was a regulation battlefield!
Directly opposite him, Palmer sat on the steps in a dark green trench coat. Only when he saw Yong enter did he rise with a smile.
"You're finally here..."
"Mr. Palmer! This is the challenger! I've confirmed that he has earned four silver prints!"
Guandao spoke earnestly.
"Understood!"
His voice was soft. Palmer looked at Guandao and smiled.
"Thanks for your hard work, Guandao! I'll need you to referee as well. Sorry for the trouble!"
"N-no trouble at all!"
Guandao gave a slightly stiff smile, then walked to the edge of the battlefield and took his position.
"Then I'll serve as the referee for this match!"
"Excellent!"
Palmer nodded, then looked at Yong.
"I don't have any strange rules here. All battles follow the Pokémon League's battle rules."
"You already have the strength to challenge the Battle Tower! And you have plenty of courage! That's what matters most..."
Yong watched Palmer without speaking, listening attentively.
"But how do you prove that your strength measures up to your courage? Simple! Try to defeat me!"
Palmer smiled faintly.
"We'll use the standard three-on-three format! Any objections, Yong?"
"None!"
The boy took out a Pokémon Ball. He had expected this.
"In that case... let the first round begin!"
Palmer gestured to Guandao, who hurriedly called out,
"The Battle Tower challenge will now begin! Challenger Yong will face Battle Tower Tycoon Palmer! Each side will use three Pokémon! The match will end when all three Pokémon on either side are unable to battle! During the battle, only the challenger may switch Pokémon!"
At that moment, Palmer's presence changed, becoming aggressive and