Hammerlocke Stadium.
"Good heavens, both competitors are down to their last Pokémon! What an intense battle!"
The voice of live commentator Miller echoed beneath Hammerlocke Stadium's enormous dome over the loudspeakers.
"Who would have thought Professor Kukui's match against Champion Diantha would be this fierce, this close!"
In the guest seats, Winona, the Flying-type Gym Leader of Fortree City in Hoenn, leaned forward slightly, her eyes fixed intently on the battlefield.
She added, "Yes, Mr. Miller,
Incineroar's Malicious Moonsault successfully defeated Champion Diantha's Goodra."
"But the professor has already used his trump card, his Z-Move, while Miss Diantha..."
She paused, her gaze settling on Diantha,
"Still has one crucial card up her sleeve: Gardevoir's Mega Evolution."
The fierce battle against Goodra had drained much of Incineroar's stamina, but had done nothing to diminish the Pokémon's fighting spirit.
Diantha gently smoothed her skirt, which had become slightly disheveled during the battle, admiration on her face.
"Professor Kukui, the bond you share with Incineroar truly moves me."
Then Diantha's tone shifted.
"But on the road to becoming a Champion, we cannot yield an inch."
Without another word, she brushed her fingertips over the Key Stone Necklace at her neck, which shimmered with an ethereal glow beneath the spotlights.
Diantha's gaze grew incredibly tender.
This was her closest partner.
"Answer my heart, Gardevoir."
"It's time to reveal our true form."
"Here it comes! Miss Diantha has finally brought out her last trump card-Mega Evolution!"
Miller shouted excitedly.
Rainbow-colored evolutionary light burst forth between Diantha's Key Stone and the Mega Stone on Gardevoir's chest, linking the hearts of Trainer and Pokémon like a bridge.
Within the light, Gardevoir's form transformed elegantly.
The skirt became longer and more magnificent, while the top of Gardevoir's head looked as though it bore a noble crown.
Hovering in