The next morning dawned calm and cool, the sea breeze rolling gently through the windows of the Pokémon Center cafeteria. The group gathered around one of the longer tables, trays filled with steaming food and bowls of berries. Ash sat at the head, already halfway through his meal, while Serena quietly slid an extra roll onto his plate with a small smile.
"Thanks, Serena!" Ash said between bites, his grin bright as always.
Serena blushed, fiddling with her fork. "You'd forget to eat properly if I didn't."
From across the table, Bonnie smirked knowingly, her eyes darting between the two. "You two sure are acting close today..." she sing-songed, her tone dripping with playful mischief.
"W-what are you talking about?" Serena stammered, nearly choking on her drink.
Ash blinked at her, confused. "Close? We've always been close, right?"
Bonnie giggled, resting her chin in her hands as Serena turned scarlet. "If you say so..."
Clemont, already flustered by his sister's antics, buried his face in his notebook. But his eyes drifted across the table just long enough to catch Korrina stretching casually, her Lucario beside her. A nervous flush colored his cheeks before he hastily adjusted his glasses and busied himself with scribbling. No one seemed to notice.
The meal carried on with chatter and laughter, the usual rhythm of their mornings. Pikachu and Dedenne stole bites from their Trainers' plates, Gabite crunched happily on his share of berries, and Lucario sat calmly, chewing with dignified patience.
Then, the cafeteria's mounted television flickered. A live broadcast banner cut across the screen, and the bright, clear voice of a reporter rang out.
"Breaking news! The Kalos Champion, Diantha, has accepted a defense challenge! She will face off against none other than Elite Four's Siebold later this afternoon, right here in Cyllage City!"
The group froze mid-bite.
"Whaaaat?!" Bonnie squealed, nearly knocking her juice over. "Diantha's gonna battle here?!"
Serena's eyes widened, her hands pressed together. "I've only ever read about Champion Defense matches... seeing one in person..."
Ash shot up from his seat, fist clenched tight with excitement. "This is perfect! We get to see Diantha battle live! And against Siebold, no less!"
Korrina grinned, already fired up. "Now that's what I'm talking about! A Champion Defense match is serious business."
Clemont adjusted his glasses thoughtfully. "This will be a rare opportunity... we can study their battle styles firsthand."
Pikachu echoed Ash's excitement with a sharp "Pika!" while the rest of their Pokémon perked up, sensing their Trainers' energy.
Finishing their breakfast in a rush, the group exchanged eager smiles. None of them wanted to waste the chance. As soon as their trays were cleared, they headed for the door, the crisp coastal air welcoming them into the bustling streets of Cyllage City.
[Line Break]
The stadium in Cyllage City loomed like a colossus above the sea cliffs, its white stone arches gleaming under the late morning sun. Crowds streamed toward its gates, a tide of anticipation filling the air. Ash and his friends joined the throng, their excitement tangible, when a familiar voice carried from the entrance hall.
"Ash! Over here."
Diantha, waved them over. Her Gardevoir stood at her side, serene and graceful, its emerald eyes resting on them with calm curiosity. The group hesitated at first—ordinary challengers rarely earned a Champion's attention—but Diantha's smile beckoned them forward.
Korrina's jaw dropped. "Wait... she knows you guys?"
Clemont adjusted his glasses matter-of-factly. "Of course. Ash has a close relationship with Cynthia. We all met Diantha back during the exhibition match between her and Cynthia in Lumiose City."
Korrina nearly tripped over her own boots. "You're telling me... Ash has met two champions?"
Bonnie piped up without missing a beat. "And then he even battled Cynthia! Well... kind of. It was more like training, but it was still a real battle!"
Korrina blinked at her, then at Ash, then back at Bonnie, her brain stalling. "He—what?" She shuffled into step almost mechanically, eyes still wide in disbelief, as the group followed Diantha deeper into the stadium.
Inside the locker room, the scent of polished floors and fresh linen mixed with faint traces of chalk and leather from battling gear. Diantha turned to them warmly.
"I'm glad to see you all again. How is your journey going, Ash?"
Ash scratched his cheek with a grin. "It's going great! I just got my second badge from Grant a couple of days ago."
"Ah, from Cyllage's Gym Leader. He's a strong opponent, isn't he?" Diantha's eyes softened, as if reassured. Then her gaze moved across the group, settling on Korrina. "And you... you're Gurkin's granddaughter, aren't you?"
Korrina straightened, blinking. "That's right! I'm Korrina. Once I unlock the true power of Mega Evolution with my partner Lucario, I'll take over as Gym Leader in Shalour City."
Diantha's expression grew thoughtful. "Your grandfather is Kalos's foremost authority on Mega Evolution. If anyone can guide you, it's him. Be sure to heed his words closely—you'll need that wisdom on your path."
Korrina bowed her head slightly, humbled by the Champion's recognition.
A faint chime echoed through the halls, the announcement for Diantha's upcoming match. She clasped her hands together, the light in her eyes firm but gentle. "It seems it's almost time. I've asked for you all to be given VIP seating. Please, enjoy the match."
The group thanked her sincerely, bowing before filing out of the locker room. Korrina followed last, still numb with awe, her earlier bravado humbled into silence.
When the door closed behind them, a tall figure stepped out from the shadows of the hall. Siebold adjusted his collar, his ocean-blue hair falling elegantly over his eyes. His voice was even, thoughtful.
"What is so special about this group, Diantha? You seem rather... invested."
Diantha smiled faintly, not taking her eyes off the door where Ash and his friends had exited. "I don't know myself. But intuition has guided me well, and I am not the only one. Cynthia, too, sees the same potential within Ash. When two Champions arrive at the same conclusion... it would be foolish to ignore it."
Siebold regarded her silently for a moment, then turned away, the hum of the arena swelling louder as the crowd prepared for the spectacle to come.
[Line Break]
The arena floor gleamed under a hundred lights, the sea-salt air rushing in from the open sides of the stadium. The roar of the crowd echoed like waves against stone, banners of Diantha's crest fluttering above the battlefield. Ash and his friends leaned over the railing of their VIP seats, hearts pounding with anticipation.
On one side, Diantha walked forward with graceful composure, her Gardevoir floating at her shoulder, bowing politely before retreating to the sidelines. On the other, Siebold strode into the light, his sharp blue eyes reflecting the glow of the arena, his chef's coat immaculate even here.
The referee raised his flag high. "This Champion Defense match will be a three-on-three battle between the challenger Siebold of the Elite Four and the Champion of Kalos, Diantha! Trainers, send out your first Pokémon!"
"Clauncher—set sail!" Siebold called, tossing his Poké Ball with a flourish. The small, blue crustacean landed on the field, its claw snapping with a metallic clang.
Diantha's voice rang clear. "Gourgeist, let's begin." From her ball emerged the tall, spectral pumpkin Pokémon, its eerie light glowing faintly in the midday sun. The crowd hushed, waiting.
The referee's hand sliced through the air. "Battle begin!"
Clauncher wasted no time, launching a glowing orb of compressed water. Water Pulse rippled across the field like a cannon shot.
"Shadow Ball!" Diantha commanded calmly. Gourgeist spun its long, ribbon-like arms, summoning a black sphere that cut through the air. The two attacks collided mid-arena, showering the field in a spray of sparks and water.
"Clauncher, Crabhammer!" Siebold ordered. The crustacean leapt high, its claw glowing white.
But Gourgeist slipped backward, vines twirling. "Trick-or-Treat," Diantha said softly. Shadows wrapped around Clauncher, marking it with a spectral glow.
Ash leaned forward, gripping the railing. "She changed its typing!"
Clemont nodded rapidly. "That means Ghost-type moves will hit harder now—brilliant setup!"
"Now—Phantom Force," Diantha commanded. Gourgeist dissolved into shadows, vanishing. Clauncher looked around frantically before a ghastly strike slammed into its back, knocking it forward across the field.
The referee raised his hand. "Clauncher is unable to battle! Gourgeist wins!"
"And just like that, the Champion takes the first point! Diantha's opening strategy is flawless, her Gourgeist overwhelming Clauncher with speed and ghostly tricks!"
Siebold returned Clauncher with a composed smile. "Well played. But try this! Binnacle, it's your turn!"
The twin barnacle Pokémon appeared, perched atop a rock-like base, glaring with both heads.
"Stone Edge!" Siebold cried. Spikes of jagged rock tore up from the ground, lancing toward Gourgeist.
"Dodge and use Leech Seed," Diantha replied, steady as ever. Gourgeist danced nimbly aside, scattering glowing seeds that latched onto Binnacle's stone body. Vines sprouted, slowly siphoning its strength.
But Siebold's counter came swiftly. "Cross Chop!" Both of Binnacle's heads swung their arms in a glowing X, slamming into Gourgeist's chest. The ghostly pumpkin staggered back, the crowd gasping.
Diantha's eyes narrowed. "Moonblast."
Light gathered in front of Gourgeist's mouth, a pink sphere swelling with power. With a piercing cry, it unleashed the beam straight into Binnacle's core. The blast sent the Pokémon tumbling into the wall, and when the dust cleared, it lay still.
The referee lifted his flag again. "Binnacle is unable to battle! Gourgeist is victorious!"
"Two in a row for the Champion! Diantha's Gourgeist is putting on a show of versatility, shrugging off blows and striking back with devastating force!"
Bonnie clapped wildly. "Diantha's amazing! She hasn't even lost a Pokémon yet!"
Korrina leaned forward, eyes alight. "Don't count Siebold out yet. He's still got his ace."
As if on cue, Siebold's third Poké Ball snapped open, releasing his towering Blastoise. The massive cannon-bearing Pokémon stomped onto the field, water vapor swirling around it. The crowd roared, already anticipating what came next.
"It is time for my signature dish! Blastoise, Mega Evolve!" Siebold declared. His Key Stone gleamed from his cufflink, and Blastoise's form shone with brilliant light. When it faded, Mega Blastoise stood larger and more fearsome, a third massive cannon protruding from its shell.
Gourgeist braced itself.
"Ice Beam!"
A freezing ray blasted across the field, striking Gourgeist before it could evade. Frost spread across its vines, and with a final cry, it collapsed.
The referee dropped his arm. "Gourgeist is unable to battle! Blastoise wins!"
"Siebold strikes back with his Mega Evolution! Mega Blastoise wastes no time in evening the score, freezing out Gourgeist's momentum!"
Diantha recalled it gracefully. "Well done, Gourgeist. Now Goodra, it's your turn."
The dragon slithered onto the field, gooey and glistening, eyes soft but burning with determination.
"Dragon Pulse!" Diantha called. Goodra unleashed a beam of swirling draconic energy.
"Hydro Cannon!" Siebold countered. Mega Blastoise's cannons glowed, blasting torrents of water that tore through the pulse. The resulting explosion drenched the field in mist.
Through the haze, Goodra charged. "Power Whip!" Vines lashed out, striking Blastoise across the shell, forcing it to stagger.
But Siebold was ready. "Flash Cannon, now!"
A metallic beam erupted from Blastoise's cannon, striking Goodra square in the chest. The Dragon-type was sent sprawling, struggling back up with trembling limbs before finally collapsing, fainted.
"Goodra is unable to battle! Blastoise claims victory again!"
"And Siebold has evened the field completely! His Mega Blastoise shows why it's a force to be reckoned with, crushing Diantha's second Pokémon!"
The score was even now.
Ash clenched his fists. "It's down to the last Pokémon!"
Serena held her breath as Diantha's final Poké Ball opened, light spilling forth to reveal Gardevoir. Graceful and radiant, it stepped onto the battlefield, its gown-like body glowing faintly.
Diantha raised her hand, her Mega Stone glimmering on her necklace. "Let's finish this, Gardevoir, Mega Evolve!"
The Mega Evolution light consumed Gardevoir, reshaping it into its radiant form. Mega Gardevoir stood poised, eyes glimmering like polished gems.
"Blastoise, Hydro Cannon!" Siebold called.
Mega Blastoise's cannons glowed, blasting twin torrents of water across the field. The crowd gasped—yet Diantha did not speak. Her gaze met Gardevoir's, calm and unwavering.
Gardevoir nodded slightly and raised its arms. A brilliant Moonblast sphere formed instantly, pink light expanding until it cut through the surging Hydro Cannon. The two attacks collided, exploding in a cascade of mist and light.
Ash leaned forward, wide-eyed. "She didn't even call the move..."
Clemont adjusted his glasses, voice hushed in awe. "They're fighting entirely through instinct, through trust."
Siebold's eyes narrowed. "Incredible... but let's test that bond. Flash Cannon!"
The steel beam lanced across the mist. Diantha lifted her chin slightly, and Gardevoir's eyes flared. Without a word, it extended a hand and twisted the beam aside with Psychic, scattering the attack like sparks in the wind.
The crowd erupted.
"Now, Dark Pulse!" Siebold pressed, his voice sharp. Mega Blastoise's cannons charged with black energy, unleashing a wave of dark rings toward Gardevoir.
But again, Diantha's lips never moved. She simply touched her temple with one finger, and Gardevoir closed its eyes. A shimmering barrier of Protect blossomed around it, absorbing the darkness without a sound.
Serena clutched the railing, her heart racing. "They don't even need words... it's like they're one soul."
Korrina muttered under her breath, "That's the bond of a Champion..."
The battlefield shook as Diantha finally raised her hand high, her eyes locking with Gardevoir's. She snapped her fingers, "and checkmate! Use Moonblast!"
Understanding instantly, Gardevoir lifted its arms to the heavens, drawing in radiant lunar energy. A colossal Moonblast bloomed and engulfed the field, tearing through Blastoise's desperate Hydro Cannon.
When the light faded, Mega Blastoise collapsed, reverting back to its base form.
The referee raised his arm. "Blastoise is unable to battle! Gardevoir is the victor—Diantha successfully defends her title!"
"Unbelievable! The Champion doesn't even need to speak, her bond with Gardevoir alone is enough to command a flawless victory! This is the pinnacle of trust between Trainer and Pokémon!"
The audience thundered with applause. Diantha placed a hand gently over her heart, bowing slightly. Gardevoir floated to her side, lowering its head, and for a moment, the two simply shared a quiet smile, perfectly in sync.
[Line Break]
The sun had already dipped low by the time the crowd began to disperse from the stadium, the echoes of the Champion Defense still humming in the air. Diantha, serene as ever despite her victory, led the group quietly down a lantern-lit street until they reached a pristine building with polished glass doors. A golden plaque above the entrance read: Restaurant Le Yeah.
Siebold himself stood waiting at the entrance, his chef's uniform crisp, his presence commanding even outside the battlefield. "Diantha," he greeted, bowing slightly before his sharp eyes moved to the group behind her. "I didn't expect our Champion to be so well-accompanied." His tone carried more curiosity than judgment, though his gaze lingered on Ash, Serena, Clemont, and Korrina.
"These are friends of mine," Diantha replied warmly. "I thought they might enjoy a meal to celebrate the battle."
Siebold's brow lifted faintly. "Children, is it? Although..." His sharp gaze settled first on Clemont, then Korrina. "I recognize you two. The young inventor of the Lumiose Gym... and the heiress of Shalour."
Clemont adjusted his glasses, startled but proud. "Y-yes, sir."
Korrina crossed her arms, giving a grin. "That's me. Shalour's future Gym Leader!"
Siebold inclined his head. "So, not just any children after all." He stepped aside, ushering them in. "Come. A proper battle deserves a proper meal."
The dining hall was quiet and immaculate, tables adorned with shining silverware and flickering candles. Siebold himself guided them to a long table near the window, the ocean stretching dark and endless beyond the glass.
As servers prepared the courses, Ash leaned eagerly across the table toward Diantha, his eyes gleaming. "That battle was amazing, Diantha! Especially when you didn't even call out the moves, you and Gardevoir just knew what to do!"
Diantha gave a soft smile, folding her hands gracefully. "Gardevoir and I have been together for many years. We trained, battled, and grew side by side. Words are rarely necessary anymore—it feels as though our hearts simply... speak."
Ash's expression softened. He looked down at Pikachu, who sat comfortably on his lap, ears twitching at the sound of his Trainer's voice. "I get that," Ash murmured, stroking Pikachu's head. "Pikachu and I... we've been through everything together. Even without saying anything, we always know what the other's thinking."
"Pika-chu!" Pikachu chimed proudly, rubbing against Ash's arm.
Diantha's eyes glimmered with understanding. "Then you already know the bond of a Champion."
The servers returned at that moment, placing platters before them. Aromas of the sea wafted through the air—steamed clams in white wine, delicately grilled Magikarp fillets, creamy sauces drizzled with herbs grown on Kalos' cliffsides. Siebold himself presented the centerpiece: a perfectly seared Milotic steak substitute, plated with jewel-like vegetables.
Bonnie's eyes sparkled like stars. "It looks so good!"
"Not just looks," Siebold replied, his voice firm but proud. "Each dish is crafted with precision to honor both the Pokémon and the palate."
As forks and chopsticks touched plates, murmurs of delight filled the table. Even Diantha, graceful as ever, allowed herself a quiet sigh of contentment. "Exquisite, as always, Siebold."
Ash stuffed a mouthful eagerly, then gave a huge grin. "This is amazing!"
Siebold allowed himself a faint smile, arms crossed. "A true dish must capture both strength and elegance. Much like a battle itself."
The clinking of cutlery slowed as the last plates were cleared away, and the warm glow of the restaurant dimmed into a comfortable stillness.
Ash, however, wasn't quite finished. His fingers drummed nervously on the table before he leaned forward, his eyes locking with Diantha's.
"Diantha," he said earnestly, "I know you just had a huge battle today, and I know you must be tired... but would you battle me too?"
The table went silent. Serena's breath caught. Clemont adjusted his glasses in disbelief. Even Korrina froze mid-sip of her drink.
Diantha studied him, her expression unreadable for a long moment. Then, slowly, a gentle smile spread across her face. "Ash... even after seeing today's match, you still wish to test yourself against me?"
Ash nodded without hesitation. "Yeah! I want to see how far I've come. And battling someone as strong as you... that's the only way I'll get stronger."
Pikachu echoed his Trainer with a sharp, determined "Pika!"
Diantha let out a soft laugh, her eyes glimmering. "Your spirit is unshakable. Very well, Ash—I accept your challenge."
Across the table, Siebold raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "You never fail to surprise, Diantha. To accept the challenge of a boy barely at the start of his journey..." His gaze slid toward Ash, measuring him with quiet interest. "Perhaps there truly is something special here."
He pushed back his chair, standing tall. "If a battle is what you desire, then a battlefield is what you shall have."
The group looked up at him in surprise as Siebold adjusted his gloves. "Follow me," he said, his voice echoing with quiet command. "Behind this restaurant lies a private stadium. Tonight, it shall serve as the stage for your test."
Ash's grin stretched ear to ear, Serena's heart leapt nervously in her chest, and the rest of the group scrambled to their feet to follow.
[Line Break]
Siebold's private stadium shimmered under the night sky, its open roof revealing the stars above. A broad battlefield stretched across the center, the arena floor made of polished stone bordered by shallow water channels that reflected the glow of the overhead lights. The design was elegant yet commanding, a true stage for a clash between Champions.
Ash stepped forward, eyes wide with determination, Pikachu perched firmly on his shoulder. Diantha, poised and graceful, walked across the field, her gown-like attire swaying softly. She reached for her Poké Ball, her voice calm but resolute.
"Come forth, Gardevoir."
The Poké Ball burst open in a shower of light, revealing Gardevoir, who floated elegantly above the ground, its eyes calm yet sharp. Ash's heart pounded as Pikachu leapt down from his shoulder, landing on the stone battlefield with a sharp "Pika!"
The match began at once.
"Pikachu, Iron Tail!" Ash commanded.
Pikachu's tail gleamed white as he sprinted forward, swinging fiercely at Gardevoir. With fluid grace, Gardevoir twisted aside, the strike missing by inches.
"Now, Quick Attack!"
Pikachu blurred into motion, darting forward like lightning, but again, Gardevoir sidestepped with effortless poise, skirts fluttering as it pivoted away.
"Then let's go, Electro Ball!" Ash shouted.
Pikachu hurled a crackling sphere of electricity, following immediately with Thunderbolt, golden bolts tearing across the field. Yet Gardevoir danced around them all, its eyes calm, its movements like flowing water.
Diantha lifted a hand. "Shadow Ball."
The orb of dark energy formed swiftly and shot forward, striking Pikachu squarely in the chest. The mouse Pokémon cried out as he was sent tumbling through the air.
"Pikachu!" Ash sprinted forward, arms outstretched. He caught his partner just before he hit the ground, holding him protectively. Pikachu shook, groaning, but his eyes still burned with determination. Ash smiled down at him. "You okay, buddy? We're not giving up."
Diantha's gaze softened, her lips curving into a faint smile. Such devotion... such passion. That bond of his truly shines.
Up in the stands, Siebold crossed his arms, eyes narrowing with intrigue. "Remarkable... He's holding his own against Kalos's Champion. No wonder you've taken an interest in him, Diantha. Perhaps I am watching the rise of someone who will stand as my opponent in the future."
Serena leaned over the railing, hands clasped tightly against her chest, her eyes sparkling. Ash wasn't just battling—he was being recognized. "Ash..." she whispered with a proud smile.
On the battlefield, Diantha raised her hand. "It's time to finish this! Moonblast."
Gardevoir summoned a radiant sphere of lunar energy, the air shimmering with its power. Ash's voice rang out instantly. "Pikachu, Counter Shield!"
Pikachu spun rapidly, unleashing a spiraling surge of electricity that formed a protective vortex around him. The Moonblast struck, but the spinning shield dispersed the energy, scattering it into harmless sparks.
Ash didn't hesitate. "Now, strike back!"
In the chaos of flickering light, a stray Electro Ball connected, followed by a quick Iron Tail that grazed across Gardevoir's shoulder. The crowd—even Siebold himself—stiffened at the sight.
The elegant Champion's Pokémon staggered slightly. It was the first time in a long while that Gardevoir had taken a direct hit.
Diantha smiled, her eyes glittering. "Impressive, Ash. To land a blow on Gardevoir... your strategies are creative, and your bond shines brilliantly."
Ash grinned, heart racing. "Thanks! We're just getting started!"
The two Trainers stood ready to continue, tension thick in the air, when hurried footsteps echoed from the entrance.
"Diantha!" A familiar voice called. Kathy, the Champion's assistant, rushed into the arena. "I'm so sorry, but your schedule won't allow any more delays. We must return immediately."
Diantha exhaled softly, then gave Ash a regretful look. "It seems our battle must end here." She stepped closer, her smile warm and full of promise. "But I look forward to continuing it one day. When that time comes, Ash, I hope you will have grown even stronger."
Siebold nodded in agreement, his sharp gaze lingering on Ash. "And when you are ready, I too would welcome the chance to face you, as a member of the Elite Four."
Ash beamed, holding Pikachu proudly in his arms. "Thank you! I'll be ready, I promise!"
The night air followed them as Diantha and Siebold departed, their footsteps fading into the city beyond. For Ash, Serena, and their friends, the battle may have ended early, but the spark it left behind burned brighter than ever.
AS THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!