"That was truly breathtaking. I never expected Miss Diantha and her Pokémon to bring us such a spectacular performance.
And now, it is time for the most exciting part. How many votes will Miss Diantha, her Eevee, and her Sableye receive...?"
Before Pierre could finish speaking, just as the audience excitedly prepared to vote for Diantha, she suddenly raised her hand and said, "I'm very sorry, but I would like to withdraw from this competition."
The more excited and thrilled the audience had been moments ago, the more deathly silent they were now. There was no other reason: nobody understood Diantha's sudden decision.
"Miss Diantha, could you tell everyone why?
Your previous performance with your Pokémon was practically flawless... no, it could even be called breathtaking.
With the level you displayed, you would have had a chance of winning even at the Masters Tournament of the Poké Showdown. You clearly had a great chance of taking victory at this Anistar Showcase as well, so why withdraw now?"
Diantha's sudden withdrawal was something nobody present had expected.
Out of both curiosity and professional duty, Pierre had to ask Diantha for her reasons.
Otherwise, with Diantha practically certain to win yet choosing to withdraw midway through, people might think the Poké Showdown organizers were rigging the competition.
A League Champion's popularity was no joke. This could have a tremendous impact on the Poké Showdown throughout the Kalos Region.
Diantha naturally knew that her sudden withdrawal would have a negative impact, so even if Pierre had not asked, she would have voluntarily explained herself.
After all, as an immensely popular actress, she possessed a high degree of emotional intelligence.
"Everyone knows that I am not only a League Champion, but also an actress. As an actress, I have long heard of the Poké