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It was indeed an Elite Four level Pokemon.
Lian suddenly realized how far he still had to go. Just maintaining such high speed for extended periods, as demonstrated by Dragonite, seemed incredibly daunting. If Lian were to face this Dragonite now, his speed alone would be completely outmatched.
In terms of combat power, Lian undoubtedly fell significantly short. The main factor being their levels; Lian's Pokemon were only around Level 40, while this Dragonite must have been at least Level 70-80 or higher.
Even that might be an understatement. As an Elite Four trainer, one of the top-tier Trainers in this world, it would be unreasonable for their Pokemon not to be at least Level 70-80.
Currently, despite Lian's ability to challenge higher-level opponents relatively easily, the gap between him and the elite Pokemon remained vast. This disparity was inevitable, considering he had been in this world for just a few months.
As the distant Dragonite gradually disappeared from sight, Lian lost interest in racing. His previously inflated confidence began to cool down.
While the system allowed Lian to possess strength far beyond his level, it wasn't omnipotent. It couldn't instantly make him invincible; growth still required time and effort.
The Combat System could only rapidly develop through continuous battles, with no shortcuts available.
Lian smoothly carried Kalia across the sea's surface, flying steadily. Intrigued by Elite Four trainers, she engaged Mark in conversation.
"How many Elite Four trainers currently exist within the League?" Kalia curiously asked. Elite Four trainers were exceedingly rare; reaching this level required not only exceptional talent but also unwavering dedication and hard work.
While aware that each region had its own Elite Four, Kalia was curious about the exact number of such trainers overall, as her knowledge on this topic was limited.
"There are officially four Elite Four members per region, representing the strongest among them," Mark explained. "However, there are more Trainers who have achieved Elite Four caliber beyond those positions. These individuals are referred to as 'Quasi-Elites.' Despite being just short of official status, their strength is formidable, with potential to compete for a spot in the Elite Four. Although I can't give you an exact count, there are undoubtedly quite a few Quasi-Elite Trainers."
Kalia gasped, surprised. "With so many powerful Trainers around, why hasn't the Dark Guild been dealt with? It puts countless people at risk."
"I'm not sure either, but the League must have their plans; they wouldn't let the Dark Guild operate unchecked. Personally, I despise them too; once, they nearly stole my Pokemon." Mark shook his head, indicating his lack of knowledge on the matter, and then displayed a clear expression of disgust. It was rare to find anyone who didn't detest the Dark Guild.
The route leading to the Ellie Region was exceptionally safe, as it had been well-maintained for secure travel.
As time passed, Lian's group drew closer to the Ellie Region. After flying a bit further, they estimated that they would soon spot Sara City.
Sara City is the closest city to Sebas within the Ellie Region, strategically located along the coast, making its economy highly developed. Although not home to a gym, it remains bustling with activity, attracting people daily.
For convenience, the exchange competition venue was set in Mono City, neighboring Sara City. Similar to the Sebas region, the Ellie region also follows the gym system.
This high-level exchange competition between two regions attracted numerous Trainers, including many mid-level Trainers equipped with Z-Rings. Additionally, a Dragon Elite oversaw the event to enforce competition rules.
The presence of a Dragon Elite was not only to prevent disruptions during the competition but also due to differing customs and rules between the two regions. The Ellie Region typically follows elimination-style battles, meaning a Pokémon cannot be withdrawn unless it loses combat capability or is defeated.
In contrast, Sebas prefers rotation-based battles, which helps avoid severe injuries to Pokemon while introducing more variability, allowing for coordinated team defense strategies that showcase Trainers' strategic prowess.
The Elite Four's role here is to establish the competition rules. Being on foreign territory often puts one at a disadvantage, but having an Elite Four present changes the dynamics. At least the Trainers from Sebas feel more confident, knowing they must give their all to avoid embarrassment before the Dragon Elite should they lose.
This exchange competition is likely to adopt the rotation format, as many areas in the Ellie Region have recently shifted towards this method. Toration battles are generally considered more humane and better reflect a Trainer's strategic intelligence.
Outdated battle formats inevitably face elimination, a clear trend over time.
"We're almost at Sara City," Mark announced. This wasn't his first visit; he was much more familiar with the area than Kalia. Spotting distant shadows, he knew they had reached their destination.
As they approached, numerous boats of various sizes could be seen traversing between the two regions. Several flying-type Pokémon Trainers like Kalia were also present, all hailing from Sebas.
Soon, they arrived at Sara Port. Upon entering the Ellie Region, registration was required. Typically, one needed a regional pass to enter, which ordinary people found challenging to obtain.
However, due to the exchange competition, many Trainers from the Sebas region were visiting, so presenting their Trainer's proof sufficed.
Nonetheless, once the competition concluded, they couldn't stay in the Ellie Region; any violation would result in severe penalties if discovered.
Kalia and Mark effortlessly entered Sara City. However, what displeased Kalia during the inspection was the look in the inspector's eyes—filled with disdain and condescension, reminiscent of how Ellie Region trainers behaved at the Pokemon Academy.
Although Kalia had long known that Ellie Region residents often treated Sebas Trainers with superiority, she assumed it was limited to fellow Trainers. She didn't expect this attitude to extend even among non-Trainers.
Mark nearly lost his temper, but thankfully, Kalia intervened just in time. Had they angered the inspector enough to deny them entry, it would have been disastrous.
They couldn't let petty issues overshadow their main goal. Their purpose was to participate in the exchange competition, and by defeating the Ellie Region's Trainers, they would prove themselves.
Upon entering the Ellie Region, Kalia and Mark didn't linger long in Sara City. With only a few days left for registration, they needed to sign up promptly; there would be time for leisure later.
The Ellie Region offered numerous attractions despite its unlikable aspects. In terms of dining, entertainment, and recreation, it had a unique charm.
Compared to the Sebas region, the daily leisure activities in the Ellie Region were much more diverse. This primarily stemmed from the intense pressure felt by people living here, as everything was approached with strict standards.
To cope with this stress, residents often sought relief through thrilling amusement facilities.
After some travel, the duo arrived at Mono City. Unlike their previous visits, today it was even livelier due to the influx of Trainers from the Sebas region.
Conflicts between trainers from both regions were not uncommon, fostering a competitive rivalry over time. The upcoming exchange competition further heightened these tensions, making clashes more likely.
If not for city regulations prohibiting Pokemon battles within urban areas, fights might have already erupted. However, several Trainers had ventured into the wilderness for such confrontations.