Pokemon Paldea [217-219] (Patreon)

Chapter 217 – Clemont's Battle Dinner Invitation, Gathering of Elites

"Eh, Luxio?"

Clemont was stunned at first, as if he hadn't reacted. Then, memories quickly flooded back—he thought of the little Shinx he'd met during his school days years ago.

He naturally knew that Shinx evolves into Luxio, but he hadn't abandoned Luxio, had he?

Lucas's serious gaze fell on Clemont, as if seeing through his thoughts. He spoke clearly and forcefully: "You want to say you didn't abandon Luxio, that you just regret missing your chance, right?"

On the way here, Lucas had been thinking: Even if Clemont missed his appointment due to unforeseen circumstances and rushed back later, Shinx's figure had already disappeared.

But after that, no one had forced Clemont to leave Lumiose City. In all those years, had he ever tried to look for Luxio, even once?

Oranguru had said, Luxio isn't exactly a secret—if you ask around, you'll hear of a Luxio guarding the city's power tower.

"..."

At a loss, Clemont looked to Meyer for help. As someone already awkward at socializing, he was more nervous than ever, his mind a mess, unable to think of where to start.

Meyer folded his arms and stood aside, not speaking up for Clemont this time.

Just as he'd said before, even if it wasn't intentional, Clemont had objectively abandoned Luxio. Meyer believed Clemont needed this lesson to understand what responsibility and duty truly meant.

"Brother… Dad?"

Suddenly, the elevator behind them opened again, and a slightly confused little girl's voice rang out.

The three looked over. Out stepped a cute girl, about seven or eight, with hair the same color as Clemont's. She clearly didn't understand what was going on, her eyes darting between the three.

Meyer frowned, "Bonnie, why are you here?"

"Because you guys weren't coming home! I figured big brother was skipping meals again while inventing, so I came to make sure he eats lunch properly. Only by getting strong can he find a dependable bride!"

Bonnie's lively and innocent arrival instantly broke the tense atmosphere, as if fresh air started to flow again. Clemont suddenly dropped to his knees, his voice choked.

"I just thought Shinx wouldn't trust humans anymore because I missed our appointment. I was afraid that if I found it, I'd see distrust and coldness in its eyes. That's why I didn't dare to look for it."

"I didn't dare gamble on whether Shinx could forgive me."

In front of Lucas, Oranguru, Meyer, and Bonnie, Clemont tearfully admitted his own cowardice—his fear of taking the first step.

He was terrified that the accident had made Shinx lose faith in him, so he chose to bury his head in the sand. As long as he didn't look for Shinx, the precious memories could stay perfect in his heart, and Shinx would remain his close companion in his memories.

After hearing everything, Lucas glanced thoughtfully at Meyer. On the way back, Meyer had talked about Clemont's character—how his lack of confidence often left him stuck.

Turns out, the root of the problem was an unfortunate accident and Clemont's own lack of self-confidence.

Lucas and Oranguru exchanged a glance. Meanwhile, Bonnie, like a little grown-up, sternly watched her kneeling brother, ready to lecture him.

"Bonnie doesn't know what to say, big brother. Luxio's so pitiful, waiting all alone for so long. The important thing isn't whether Luxio is willing to trust you again, but that as a man, you have to take responsibility, find Luxio, apologize, and explain why you missed your promise."

"Even if you have to grovel, you must get Luxio's forgiveness! Really, big brother, you're hopeless. My idea of finding you a bride is clearly the right one!"

At fault, Clemont didn't dare talk back—he could only hang his head and accept his sister's scolding.

Meyer came over to Lucas and Oranguru, sighing: "Sorry about this. Clemont's even less clear-headed than Bonnie, but I think after this lesson, he'll change."

Lucas nodded: "Clemont isn't a bad person. As long as he faces the issue and goes to the academy to resolve it, that's enough."

"Even if it takes time to earn Luxio's trust again, after this setback, they'll surely become close partners. Luxio will become Clemont's new teammate at the Lumiose Gym."

Lucas felt today had gone pretty well—not only did Arcanine get to battle, but he also got a famous Lumiose Gâteau as a souvenir, and Bonnie managed all the scolding so he didn't have to.

A lucky day indeed!

Suddenly Meyer asked, "Lucas, how long do you plan to stay in Kalos? To thank you for helping Clemont face his issues, I'd like to show you around Lumiose's surroundings."

Caught off guard, Lucas considered his schedule.

It was his second day in Kalos, and his main goal was already half done. The only thing left was the battle dinner two days later, at Clemont's friend Siebold's restaurant.

The invitation said Siebold had invited many friends, hoping trainers would socialize, swap rare items, and discuss battles. There would also be surprise prizes for the most outstanding guest.

Lucas wasn't too interested—he just planned to enjoy the food and maybe battle a bit.

Beyond that, he had no other plans, and was already thinking of flying back to Paldea the day after the dinner.

He missed his farm.

He shared his plans with Meyer.

Meyer looked surprised but said nothing with Clemont and Bonnie present.

…

For the next two days, Clemont temporarily closed the Lumiose Gym and set out with Bonnie to his former academy, apparently to win back Luxio's heart.

Meanwhile, Lucas and Meyer toured Lumiose's surroundings, experiencing Kalosian culture.

Meyer also met Lucas's other three Pokémon, besides Arcanine and Oranguru.

Especially when Meyer learned Swampert had a Swampertite, he enthusiastically took Lucas to a craftsman he knew, who made a special armband for Swampert to hold it.

Sadly, Meyer didn't have a spare Mega Key Stone, or he would have gifted one to Lucas.

Finally, it was evening, and the dinner Siebold was hosting was about to begin.

Lucas arrived in a limousine arranged by Siebold at his restaurant—a luxurious manor on the outskirts of Lumiose City.

The restaurant had no name and seemed to accept guests only by reservation, looking very high-class.

Night was falling, streetlights illuminated the road, and after Lucas got out, the driver bowed, "I'll go pick up other guests now. Just follow this path, Mr. Lucas."

"Alright."

Lucas nodded, watched the black car leave, and was about to move on when a second car arrived. Out stepped a man in an outfit completely at odds with the elegant surroundings, looking like a Kamen Rider from a tokusatsu show. Under a red cape, he wore a skin-tight suit, and on his head was a Blaziken-themed mask. The man immediately looked at Lucas.

Their gazes met for a moment. The masked man, with a hearty laugh, came forward and said, "Hey there, are you here for the dinner too?"

"Nice to meet you, I'm Blaziken Mask, the hero who secretly protects Lumiose City!"

Lucas: "..."

Blaziken Mask wilted under Lucas's deadpan stare.

Wait, why am I nervous? He shouldn't know who I am, right?

"Meyer, what's with the getup?"

Lucas's calm voice made Meyer freeze. Suddenly, he felt the embarrassing urge to curl up in shame at being seen by an acquaintance, but forced a laugh: "Meyer? Haha, what are you talking about? I'm Blaziken Mask! You must be mistaken!"

"Maybe."

Lucas didn't expose him and just walked up the path.

Eating was more important. If the food was good, he might ask Siebold to pack some for his Pokémon.

Seeing Lucas leave without a backward glance, Blaziken Mask snapped out of it and hurried after him, saying, "Well, since we've met, let's walk together?"

Lucas didn't refuse and nodded.

They walked in silence for a while, then Blaziken Mask casually said, "Most of tonight's guests are Siebold's influential Kalos acquaintances. There's even Kalos Champion Diantha and Lysandre of the Lysandre Labs."

Lucas paused: "Lysandre?"

Blaziken Mask nodded, "Lysandre is a famous Kalos philanthropist, and an investor in Siebold's restaurant."

"That's just what I've heard. The prize tonight is a newly unearthed Mega Stone, and Lysandre wants to use this chance to connect with outstanding trainers."

Chapter 218 – Lysandre Steps Up!

Blaziken Mask's almost warning tone made Lucas frown. Suddenly, the delicious food didn't seem so appealing.

Lysandre was no easy character. Never mind his good guy period—for now, he was a skillful, dangerous schemer, hiding his true ambitions behind a perfect mask.

Some people probably worked for him without even realizing it.

Soon, after walking the lit path, they reached the hilltop French restaurant, brightly illuminated.

The place was already bustling. Besides elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen, there were all sorts present, from elites to ordinary folks.

Clearly, Siebold's connections crossed all class lines.

Lucas and Blaziken Mask's arrival drew attention—mainly because of Blaziken Mask's outlandish outfit.

Feeling everyone's gaze, Lucas felt like he was roasting over a fire.

Fortunately, Blaziken Mask's look also attracted the host's attention.

Wearing a white chef's coat, Siebold hurried over. Seeing Lucas, his eyes lit up in delight, "Lucas!"

Lucas replied, "Siebold, it's been a while."

"I'm so happy you accepted my invitation!"

Siebold gave Lucas a big hug. Even though Kalosians were always passionate, such familiarity made the surrounding guests curious about Lucas's identity.

Siebold, ever the elegant chef and host, didn't forget Blaziken Mask. "I've heard so much about you, Blaziken Mask, the hero who secretly guards Lumiose. It's an honor to have you here."

While Blaziken Mask and Siebold chatted, Lucas glanced at him in surprise. Was it his imagination, or did Siebold not expect Blaziken Mask to accept the invitation? So, Blaziken Mask must have changed his mind for some reason—could that reason be...

Lucas pondered.

After pleasantries, as more guests arrived, Siebold smiled, "I'll leave you for now. The dinner is buffet style, all dishes are my team's proud creations. Please enjoy them."

"And after dinner, there'll be a battle round. If you participate, I'll be even happier—especially you, Lucas. I'm looking forward to seeing you shine tonight."

He winked and left.

Once Siebold was gone, Blaziken Mask looked at Lucas in disbelief: "You've beaten Siebold before?!"

High-society banquets were all about drinking and socializing.

Of course, there were some who ignored networking and focused only on the food, cutting through the buffet like a battlefield.

Lucas and Blaziken Mask were among them.

Mouth full, Blaziken Mask asked, "Are we really okay doing this?"

Lucas didn't care, only answering during a water break: "Why not? I'm just a country guy who loves food. I'm not good at flattery—might as well enjoy the good stuff."

"And honestly, these buffet dishes are as good as anything you'd order here. Delicious!"

Blaziken Mask was speechless. He'd never met anyone so relaxed—was this what real confidence looked like?

He remembered Lucas had beaten Siebold's Mega Blastoise. No wonder Lucas hadn't been surprised by his Ampharos's Mega Evolution—he'd already faced Siebold.

Defeating a Four Elite's ace after Mega Evolution, Lucas really kept surprising him.

Since neither socialized and Lucas was unknown, plus Blaziken Mask's weird costume, almost no one came to talk to them.

During the meal, Lucas did spot some familiar faces—Kalos Gym Leaders, the Elite Four, all present.

Soon, the dinner reached its climax: Siebold took the stage and cheerfully addressed the crowd:

"Thank you all for coming to my battle dinner! I hope you enjoyed the food and wine—everything was crafted with pride by my team."

"Before tonight's main event, let me introduce two distinguished guests: Kalos League Champion and actress Diantha, and Lysandre, head of Lysandre Labs and a beloved philanthropist!"

The lights focused on a woman in a finely tailored black off-shoulder dress and jeweled crown, and a tall man in a white suit. They walked together to the stage.

No doubt, it was Diantha and Lysandre.

Guests whispered excitedly: "So beautiful, Miss Diantha! Only she could make black look both elegant and dazzling."

"Mr. Lysandre is so handsome—just being near him is reassuring. No wonder he's Kalos's great philanthropist!"

"Don't they look perfect together?"

"You think so, too?!"

While others whispered, Lucas stared at the stage, eyes fixed on Diantha and Lysandre.

Because… Lysandre had just taken a glass from a waiter and, smiling, raised it toward Lucas.

Lucas knew Lysandre was greeting him, something even Blaziken Mask noticed. He whispered, "He's up to something. Be careful, Lucas."

Under his mask, Meyer frowned. It was the first time he'd seen Lysandre so aggressive. Could Lysandre already know Lucas had beaten Siebold?

Lucas nodded: "I will."

Diantha and Lysandre greeted the guests, drawing applause. Then the main event began.

Siebold, microphone in hand, said: "Now for the highlight of tonight! As a battle dinner, there will of course be Pokémon battles."

"Originally, I planned to do an exhibition match with Miss Diantha, but it seems Mr. Lysandre has his own idea."

"Mr. Lysandre, would you like to speak?"

Siebold handed Lysandre the mic. Lysandre looked straight at Lucas.

As Lysandre tested the mic, Lucas sighed—so it really was a banquet with a hidden agenda.

Blaziken Mask was right—Lysandre was here for him. He'd probably learned Lucas's identity from Siebold.

But Lucas didn't blame Siebold—his invitation was well-intentioned, probably hoping to gift him a set of Mega Evolution tools.

Siebold was simply fooled by Lysandre's public persona and had been used.

After testing the mic, Lysandre swept his gaze over the crowd, his deep voice full of persuasive charm: "Before the exhibition match between Chef Siebold and Miss Diantha, I'd like to introduce a distinguished guest from afar."

Guests looked around curiously.

"A distinguished guest from afar? Someone Lysandre himself would introduce must be very important."

Diantha quietly asked Siebold: "What's going on?"

Siebold, still watching the crowd, quietly answered: "Remember when I went on a training trip?"

Diantha nodded.

Scanning the crowd, Siebold's gaze landed on Lucas. "During my travels, I went to Paldea and lost to a trainer there."

Diantha covered her mouth in shock: "You… lost?"

Siebold sighed: "Yes, and I gave it my all. My Mega Blastoise was defeated by his Fire Pokémon."

Diantha frowned—could it be Paldea's champion, Geeta? But Geeta's main Pokémon weren't Fire-type…

Suddenly, she realized: "Did you invite that person to tonight's dinner?"

Siebold nodded but stayed quiet, as Lysandre was entering the next stage of his speech. With a look of honor, he said:

"Now, let me introduce this young powerhouse from Paldea, recognized by Champion Geeta as a trainer on par with a League Champion—Mr. Lucas."

Lysandre placed his right hand over his heart and bowed toward Lucas. The spotlight focused on Lucas, drawing gasps from those nearby.

"And, if I may be so bold, I, Lysandre, wish to invite Mr. Lucas to a one-on-one exhibition match. As an added incentive, win or lose, I will present this Mega Stone as a gift."

Lysandre raised his gloved hand, revealing a round stone that looked like nature's perfect creation.

Chapter 219 – Overwhelming Victory

Lysandre's almost pleading invitation to Lucas shocked the guests.

Even Diantha was surprised: "They don't seem to have any grudge. Why is Lysandre so intent on battling him?"

"And he's offering a priceless Mega Stone, win or lose."

Siebold quietly replied: "He probably wants to recruit him. Paldea's champion-level trainers don't have official positions or authority—at least Lucas doesn't."

"So Lucas is a free agent. No wonder Lysandre's so eager."

Diantha realized it made sense. She'd heard that Lysandre wanted to recruit outstanding trainers for his lab.

If young trainers were unpolished gems, then Lucas was a rare jewel already shining at full brilliance.

Lysandre's hungry gaze was obvious, even Diantha and Siebold could sense it.

Though they found this side of Lysandre unfamiliar, his philanthropic reputation made them rationalize it as just his desire for talent.

They were right—now that Lysandre knew about Lucas's achievements and independent status, he was determined to recruit him.

Just like when he recruited Malva—use battle and gifts to establish a bond, then invite him to join his organization.

With Lucas's power, Lysandre's plans could progress much faster. Many things he couldn't do as himself, Lucas could handle.

No doubt, Lysandre was desperate for someone like Lucas.

Feeling Lysandre's hungry gaze, Lucas admitted he felt a bit nervous—it was just so intense and invasive.

Fortunately, Lysandre quickly composed himself, still smiling and holding up the Mega Stone, waiting for Lucas's answer.

Lucas wanted the Mega Stone, but whether or not Lysandre had hidden tricks, he didn't really want to get such an important item from a villain.

"I'll accept the battle challenge, but please keep the Mega Stone, Mr. Lysandre. It's just a friendly Pokémon battle, not worth such a huge price."

His clear voice carried through the hall, and after a brief pause, applause broke out.

Both for the exciting match to come, and for Lucas's nonchalant attitude toward the rare Mega Stone.

Lysandre was silent for a moment, then lowered his hand. No one knew what he was thinking.

The battle would take place in the outdoor arena behind the restaurant.

Guests moved outside. Waiters moved through the crowd, glasses were picked up and set down.

While final preparations were underway, guests chatted:

"Is Lysandre really going to battle that trainer? He's a researcher, right?"

"I heard Lysandre's Pyroar is quite strong, or he wouldn't have made so many trainer friends."

"Did you see that champion-level trainer? He looks so young!"

"Look, they're coming!"

Spotlights illuminated both sides as Lysandre, now wearing a more mobile vest, and Lucas took their places.

Diantha, Siebold, Blaziken Mask, and other notable trainers stood nearby to watch.

Siebold, acting as referee, confirmed they were ready and announced: "Please release your Pokémon!"

"Your turn, Dragonite."

Lucas tossed his Pokéball, and with a burst of light, Dragonite hovered in the air, its powerful aura making clear it was no ordinary Pokémon.

Lysandre had already decided—his Gyarados would stay hidden for now. Pyroar, his signature Pokémon, was the best choice.

Blazing flames illuminated the night as Pyroar landed with a kingly presence.

"Roar!!"

Pyroar stared confidently at Dragonite above, answering its dominance with a proud roar.

Diantha smiled: "Ability—Moxie. It can be surprisingly effective in this setting."

Siebold nodded: "Their fighting spirit is like a work of art. Even I'm getting fired up."

Diantha released her Gardevoir, who quickly set up a barrier to shield the crowd from the aftershocks.

"Flame Fang!"

"Dragon Claw!"

Pyroar's flames became gigantic fangs, clashing with Dragonite's emerald claws.

Boom!

A violent explosion rocked the area, smoke rising in the light. Both Pokémon retreated a few steps.

In this initial clash, Lucas narrowed his eyes. Pyroar's strength was easily on par with an Elite Four main team member.

And that hidden Gyarados—possibly even stronger with Mega Evolution.

Lysandre really was a deep and ambitious man.

Then Lysandre calmly ordered: "Flamethrower!"

Pyroar unleashed a sea of fire, the air shimmering from the heat, flames surging at Dragonite.

"Fight fire with fire—Flamethrower!"

Dragonite, skilled in many moves, summoned an even larger firestorm, which devoured Pyroar's flames and rushed toward Pyroar.

Pyroar leapt over the fire, charging straight at Dragonite, its body wreathed in flames—using Flare Blitz.

Dragonite didn't retreat. Dragon energy blazed, forming a giant blue dragon that smashed into Pyroar.

BOOM!

Under the eyes of the crowd, Dragonite and Pyroar collided, the shockwave spreading out, flames and dragonfire lighting the night. The noise made people step back.

Debris rained down, striking Gardevoir's barrier.

Gardevoir's calm eyes wavered—both Pokémon's power surpassed her expectations.

"Look, Pyroar's flames are weakening!"

Someone shouted, and all eyes focused on the center.

After a few clashes, the tide changed.

Pyroar's expression was off. Its limbs were deep in the ground, as if bearing a massive weight.

Its flames shrank, while Dragonite's aura stayed strong—if anything, growing stronger.

The difference in strength was clear.

Your full strength is just my normal.

Siebold marveled: "As expected, his Dragonite is as strong as his Ceruledge."

Lysandre's Pyroar was strong, but still outclassed by Lucas's Dragonite.

Diantha sipped her wine, "This raw Dragon power reminds me of Kanto's Dragon Master."

"If Lysandre's Pyroar falls behind, it'll be hard to recover."

As expected, seeing Pyroar falter, Lucas signaled Dragonite to raise its power. The dragon energy swallowed up the flames, blasting Pyroar away.

Pyroar, battered, looked in awe at Dragonite, who easily dispersed smoke with a flap of its wings.

In truth, Dragonite had just been toying with Pyroar, matching its moves but never going all out.

This realization left Pyroar, always so proud, feeling defeated.

Siebold stepped up: "That's enough!"

As an exhibition, the battle ended there.

But everyone knew—it was a crushing victory for Lucas and Dragonite. He deserved the title of champion-level trainer.

It wasn't surprising—Lucas was a professional battler, while Lysandre was a researcher.

Workers quickly repaired the field. The dinner's battle segment resumed, with trainers fighting, learning, and sharing experience—the real reason Siebold held the event.

The Gym Leader battles, the Elite Four matches, and the main Siebold vs. Diantha exhibition all thrilled the crowd.

Every battle was rich and entertaining, especially Blaziken Mask's Mega Blaziken beating a Gym Leader—earning applause.

Turns out, the weirdo in costume was actually strong!

But the battle that left the deepest impression was still Lucas vs. Lysandre—a raw, powerful clash.

Unlike the performative, flashy battles, this direct fight stirred everyone.

During the voting, most people quietly cast their ballot for those two.

Inside the hall—

After battling Lysandre, Lucas had Arcanine fight a few strangers, gaining experience. Losing interest, he went to the hall to feast with Dragonite and Arcanine, watching other battles as he ate.

He especially enjoyed Diantha and Siebold's exhibition—they didn't use their aces. Diantha sent out her Gourgeist (who once soloed Lance's Gyarados at the Masters Eight), while Siebold used an unimpressive Octillery.

That Octillery was fascinating—it could use ink to track Gourgeist even while it used Phantom Force. Siebold's training clearly paid off.

Just as Lucas was enjoying his food, he heard footsteps. Looking up, he saw Lysandre, now in a waistcoat.

After the battle, Lysandre had exchanged pleasantries and disappeared. Lucas thought he'd given up, but now Lysandre approached for a private talk.

"Can I have a word?" Lysandre got straight to the point.

Lucas swallowed his cake, wiped his mouth, and nodded: "Sure."

Lysandre smiled, pulled out a chair, and sat beside Lucas. From his vest pocket, he took out a smooth, multi-colored Mega Stone and handed it to Lucas.

Lucas frowned, "I already declined…"

Lysandre shook his head: "This isn't the Mega Stone I was offering. It's the mysterious prize from Siebold's dinner, and by unanimous decision, it's ours."

"As you see, I already have a Mega Stone—so this one is yours."

Lysandre pulled out his own Mega Stone. Under the lights, both stones glowed with mysterious allure.

"Then I'll accept, thank you."

Lucas thought for a moment and took the prize Mega Stone. The system in his mind confirmed it was safe.

Feeling the cool, smooth stone, Lucas hadn't expected to complete the requirements for Mega Evolution so easily. Swampert's power would get a big boost.

But Lysandre clearly hadn't come just to deliver a stone. After a moment, he said, "To be honest, I want you."

Lucas: "…Huh?"