Although it was the same arena, the atmosphere for this round of sixteen was noticeably livelier than it had been for the Top 32.
There were still just as many seats and spectators, but the crowd was more enthusiastic, their cheers louder. Clearly, they had higher expectations for battles that were bound to be more intense.
The entire Ever Grande Conference venue was enveloped in a festive atmosphere. Even in some of the Hoenn Region's major cities, promotional photos of the competitors had begun appearing at bus stops and in department stores. Employees at some large companies had even started secretly slacking off to watch this annual event.
It rivaled, if not surpassed, the Grand Festival that had ended not long ago. In short, it was attracting more and more attention from the entire population.
With all eyes on them, Ash and Masamune kicked off the day's schedule with their match at 8:30 in the morning!
Whatever the two had discussed last night, they both looked solemn as they stood in their respective Pokémon Trainer's Battle Areas. Masamune in particular was completely unlike his usual carefree, laughing self. He was both nervous and conflicted, and one look was enough to tell that he was still struggling internally.
The rules for this round were no different from those of the previous round.
The announcer introduced the two competitors in a ringing voice, then conducted the First-Half Battlefield Draw, which finally settled on the Ice Field.
A rectangular Ice Field covered in thick, solid ice was brought into the center of the arena by a system of gears.
Everything was ready. With that, the battle officially began!
In the stands, Xia You and the others sat among the crowd. To make watching this match more leisurely and comfortable, and to keep May