Time flew. After going somewhere with Chinami and finally putting an old misgiving to rest, Dian threw himself into the life ahead of him.
Research into Mega Evolution proved harder than he had imagined. Mega Stones were scarce, and activating them was difficult.
After all, most Trainers, himself included, saw a Mega Stone as an extension of their bond with their Pokémon. How could they hand one over to an outsider for research?
Before long, he set aside his experiments to face something else.
The Hoenn League's Ever Grande Conference!
Inside the laboratory, files as thick as dictionaries lay scattered across the floor. There was barely room to step.
He had managed to clear a small space beside the bed for a full-length mirror. Everywhere else stood high-tech research equipment.
"Am I nervous, or am I excited?"
Dian looked at his plainly dressed reflection. He drew a deep breath, closed his eyes, and searched his feelings.
He realized then that he looked forward to the Ever Grande Conference more than he had imagined. It was not because of the glory or opportunities it promised.
It was because...
The Ever Grande Conference, the League Conference—this was the Trainers' stage, a celebration of the dreams of countless people, Trainers, and Pokémon.
For him, too, it was a beginning. A new beginning.
Dian picked up a backpack faded from countless washings. The "P" on it held his past, and he wore the same training outfit he had set out in from Tani City.
He glanced at the research equipment around him and felt briefly dazed. It seemed both unfamiliar and moving... He had finally made it this far.
Dian placed a hand against the cold glass of the mirror. Even he could not fully untangle the feelings stirring inside him.
He let out