The sky was beginning to turn yellow.
After nearly a full day of battles, the spectators were growing tired, even though Dragon Village had served them hot tea and snacks.
But their spirits soon picked up.
The two entering the field were the strongest trainers in Unova and Orre—Champions who represented absolute strength!
"A battle between Champions!"
"Getting to watch Champions battle from this close would be worth it even if I got seriously hurt!"
"That's a bit much... but you're not wrong."
"There seem to be more battles between Champions these past couple of years. I remember Lance and Leon battling at the start of the year, and I heard the World Championships will hold even more on a larger scale!"
"Really? How many Champions have entered?"
"Is Cynthia competing? I'm a huge fan of hers!"
"Me too!"
"Diantha! I'm a fan of her movies!"
The trainers in the crowd chattered over one another. Their admiration for the Champions' strength soon gave way to enthusiasm for the Champions themselves.
It was a wonderfully harmonious scene.
The atmosphere between Baimu and Iris was friendly, too.
"It's been almost a year since we battled, right? I'm not losing to you this time!"
"Bring it on. Just don't cry when you lose."
"I—I won't cry! I'm not a little kid anymore! Hmph! You're so annoying!"
The young girl gave an indignant huff.
Perhaps because people had always treated her like a child, she was sensitive about it and often teased Ash on the same subject.
The two of them frequently bickered because of it.
Baimu's teasing had fired up her stubborn streak as well. More eager than ever to fight, she threw her Poké Ball, determined to avenge her earlier losses!
They had battled more than once, after all. Their first encounter