Saluting cannons boomed, and fireworks burst high in the sky.
At three in the afternoon, Silver Stadium was packed with spectators from all over Johto. Meanwhile, TV stations switched their feeds to begin live coverage of this annual Pokémon League battling event.
The contestants' friends and families, along with ordinary viewers, all focused their attention on the event. Even the giant screens in shopping malls and along the streets played uninterrupted footage from the venue.
Even office workers slacked off to watch during work, while students secretly took out their phones. Some bosses and teachers turned a blind eye, for they, too, were following the tournament closely.
With everyone watching, the host's voice echoed through the stadium, reaching every listener clearly.
In front of her television, Sabrina, who had just finished a battle, sat on the sofa with her legs lightly crossed, watching the screen with a relaxed expression.
"...As you can see, the opening ceremony and the contestants' entrance will begin here shortly. The spectators at the venue can hardly wait! This Silver Conference has brought together powerful Pokémon Trainers, and their contest of strength and skill will officially begin tomorrow. Who will claim the championship? Let's wait and see!"
As Sabrina watched the screen, her thoughts drifted back to the first half of her journey through Johto with Xia You. What a shame. If the Pokémon League hadn't been pressing her so hard, she would surely still be by his side.
The thought left her feeling even more displeased.
If Xia You hadn't talked her out of it, and her father hadn't pleaded with her, given her temperament, she would have long since resigned as Gym Leader and continued traveling the world with Xia You!
Just then, Sabrina's father entered the room and said, "Sabrina, another challenger has