Tryst with Destiny: The Beginning of the End (Main Story)

53 : Aftermath of the Battle

(Next Morning)

"Well you called us. We are here." Grace says as she and Delia enter KIP's conference room.

"Good to see you Grace and Delia. Had a good night's sleep?" Diantha asks.

"Yes. How are you and the champions doing?" Grace asks in a concerned tone.

"We are much better thank you. Of course Lance is still taking it quite badly. But how are Ash and Serena doing?" Diantha asks as everyone turns their gaze to Grace and Delia.

"They are still asleep. I actually put some sleep medication in their food last night. We all know they need it. They should be up in a couple of hours. So what did you want to discuss?" Grace says as she takes her seat as does Delia.

"Well first of all I am not the one who called this meeting. Professor Goodshow did. Why don't we let him speak." Diantha says as everyone turns to Goodshow who has been sitting silently.

"Well first of all both the members of the Pokemon League and the International Police Agency are quite distressed. The defeat of all the champions in such an overwhelming way has sent shock waves throughout both the organizations. Thankfully media agencies have not reported on this in a critical manner since even they felt sorry for the condition of the champions after the battle was over." Goodshow says before taking a sip of water.

"Well I for one would like to surrender my title of champion. I don't deserve it." Lance says to everyone's surprise.

"I understand but that is out of the question." Goodshow replies.

"Why? I am not fit to represent my region in the Pokemon league as evident from the events of yesterday. With such a disturbed mindset I don't think I can perform my duties of a champion as well. I am sure the other champions feel the same after having their a***s handed to them yesterday." Lance says in a bitter tone.

"Language young man. Use of such language does not befit a champion." Goodshow says.

"Another reason why I don't deserve it." Lance says in an ignorant tone.

Goodshow gives a sigh before saying "You are right. As of right now the state you are in. None of you are fit to be champions of your regions but you still must remain on that position."

"Why?" Alder asks.

"Because of the condition Dragon Emperor imposed just before the mach began which all of you accepted in front of international television." Goodshow says.

"The condition of us retaining our title regardless of the outcome. I had a feeling you were going to say that." Diantha replies.

"You had 5 months to create your strategy and train. Furthermore you were battling with a 1 vs 6 numeric advantage. He won despite that. As trainers you are bound by the code of honor of Pokemon trainers and you must uphold the condition that was imposed upon you by him. Besides if you were to step down right now it will cause even more panic than what already has spread." Goodshow says.

"That's right. To deal with the situation and mitigate it we must take steps." Looker says while interjecting.

"Yes but what can we do? You saw the battle. We can't beat him if that is what you are asking us to do." Cynthia says.

"We are not asking you to do that. However we can't stay like this with our heads in the sand without doing anything. So first let us start by reviewing what we know about this Dragon Emperor." Goodshow says.

"Well we know he is an extremely competent and powerful trainer. He knows the ins and outs of Pokemon." Diantha says.

"He is very reserved and calm. He has a dominating presence. Also has a little compassion in him. From what we have seen he cares quite a bit about Ash and Serena." Cynthia says.