When the four lucky audience members gathered in the center of the field, the crowd erupted in even louder cheers than before.
Jessica and Feng were surprised to discover that the other two chosen audience members were young Alolan girls.
One had long green hair tied in a ponytail and a sunny smile. The other had short blue hair and a quiet demeanor.
"I'm Mallow, from Konikoni City!
"My dream is to become a chef as amazing as Chef Siebold, Kalos's former Water-type Elite Four member!" the lively girl greeted them enthusiastically.
"I'm Lana." In comparison, the blue-haired girl was much shyer, simply introducing herself and nodding in greeting.
"Wow! Hi!" Jessica responded warmly. "I'm Jessica, and this is... We're from the Almia Region!"
Feng also smiled and nodded in greeting. The four girls quickly became acquainted, and Mallow's lively personality made the atmosphere very relaxed.
Just then, the host, Masked Royal, announced loudly, "Now, will our four lucky audience members please choose your partner Pokémon!"
Hearing this, Jessica looked at Feng, who had already chosen Glameow, and suddenly remembered that she had not brought any Pokémon on this trip.
When she had said earlier, "Too bad Xiao Tong isn't here," she had meant that she could not borrow a Pokémon from Tong Hua in person to enter the competition.
"You three-does anyone want to compete with me?" Jessica turned to Steenee, Cinccino, and Purrloin beside her.
"Stee!"
The moment Jessica finished speaking, Steenee was the first to raise both hands in agreement, spinning around excitedly.
"Cin, cin." "Meow."
Cinccino elegantly tidied its fur, while Purrloin haughtily turned its head away. Neither was particularly interested in battling. Since Steenee was so enthusiastic, they might as well let her have the spot and cheer from the sidelines!
"All right, Steenee, I