Two days later.
Boom——!! Boom——!! Boom——!!
Manaro Arena.
Brilliant fireworks blossomed over the arena, reflecting on the sea, presenting a scene of one flower blossoming in two places.
Helicopters hovered above the open stadium.
Trainers had various expressions on their faces.
"Luckily, I made it in time for the 'Island Competition.' They say this is the first major competition held in the Alola region and it will surely go down in history!"
"So many famous people! Just thinking about competing in the same arena with them makes me incredibly excited!"
Trainers from all over the world were proud and excited to make it to this competition.
This "Island Competition" required competitors to be under twenty years old and to have collected eight badges, regardless of the region.
This requirement was enough to filter out most people.
But still, a large number of trainers swarmed in.
"I heard that this Manaro Arena was built by the Ethereum Foundation in a short period of time single-handedly?"
Lance looked at the lively scene, the vast field, and couldn't help but sigh.
The Manaro Arena, originally meant for the "Manaro Competition," was also built in advance.
"Yes, although the Ethereum Foundation belongs to the Alola region, it actually had some connections with various parts of the world before the Alola region was completely open," Flint said.
As the young master of the Devon Company, he knew the strength of the Ethereum Foundation very well.
But actually, the Sinnoh Region was the most closely connected with the Ethereum Foundation.
Their "AR System" was developed based on information gathered from the library in Pastoria City and some help from the Sinnoh Alliance.
"Little Arceus" Silvally is the best proof.
Natsuhiko looked down at the "Competition Manual" in his hand.
"Manaro Arena is just the main arena. However, due to the large number of participants, qualifiers have to be conducted at branch arenas before they can compete in the main arena. This is just the opening ceremony now."
Although the entire Manaro Arena is called an arena, it's actually not much different from an artificial island.
The Manaro Arena is the theme, and there are roughly a dozen small arenas around it.
Each arena includes four terrains: rock, water, ice, and grass. Which terrain is at which arena is determined by drawing lots.
Besides these arenas.
Of course, other things are also included.
Such as commercial street, shopping street, snack street, and other commercial streets.
There are also different housing areas for tourists, participants, and others.
Having hosted a "Devon Small Cup Competition" before, Natsuhiko knew the interests involved all too well.
Don't overlook the enormous cost of building such an artificial island by the Ethereum Foundation. With the popularity of this competition, even if not fully recouped, they can still make back a majority of their investment.
The majority of the funds come from advertising by various companies, large and small.
For example, the large "Devon Made" lettering at the top of the arena is the advertising space from Flint's family.
The Ethereum Foundation wanted to develop the "Ultimate Ball," and collaborating with a large Pokeball manufacturer was the quickest way.
Both Devon and Silver were their choices.
So Flint came not only to participate in the competition but also to meet with Lusamine, the president of the Ethereum Foundation, for a business discussion.
And after this competition, Manaro Arena can still be used for other competitions.
It's quite simple to recoup the costs.
It might even become a major source of income for the Ethereum Foundation in the future.
"You all watch first, I'll step aside for a moment." Natsuhiko noticed a corner and told the others before leaving.
"Go ahead."
Now Natsuhiko is not only a participant but also the Deputy Minister of the "UB Countermeasures Department."
The International Police in the Alola Region was required by the Alliance to help with emergency security work for the competition, and the "UB Countermeasures Department" was no exception.
"Minister Lira."
In the corner.
The person who called Natsuhiko over was none other than Minister Lira from the "UB Countermeasures Department."
"Natsuhiko." Lira nodded friendly. "The device you sent last time, Barnett already tried it. It's very precise. Such equipment will help us greatly and will surely earn you credit for future tasks."
Natsuhiko waved his hand with a smile, "It's what I should do."
"Barnett said that the Ultimate Cave might appear at any time in these few days, so I'm here to notify you. While participating in the competition is important, as International Police, protecting most people is our duty."
In these few days?
"I understand, if there's anything needed, Minister Lira, please call me directly."
"Okay! I feel relieved when you say that." Lira's stern expression eased slightly.
"Also, I hope you achieve good results. This competition is no joke."
"Thank you for your kind words."
Watching Natsuhiko's departing figure, the handsome guy standing silently behind Lira frowned and said, "What if Inspector Natsuhiko happens to be in a match?"
Lira gave him a side glance and sighed, "I just want his attitude. If possible, try not to disturb him."
"Understood....."
"I've already informed the higher-ups about the 'bait casting' operation. Get ready to cast the bait next!"
"Yes!"
...
...
"Has it not started yet?"
Returning to the contestant's seat.
Lance pouted.
On stage, Professor Oak, wearing a white lab coat, was giving a speech.
"Professor Oak?" Natsuhiko was slightly stunned.