Chapter 33: The IPL Finals!
Ckemont was overjoyed by the excitement of the packed arena, and as Trevor walked out to his platform, Sasha taking the place opposite him for Laverre, the Lumiose Gym Leader couldn't help but cheer along with the roaring crowd. It was the loudest it had been throughout the playoffs, and he had a feeling it was only going to get louder.
"This is sure to be a good one, folks!" Robby called out, his voice carrying throughout the arena over the cheering crowd. He had just finished the introductions of the teams, but he'd announced that Professor Sycamore and Diantha would be speaking briefly as well. "As Trevor of Lumiose University and Sasha of Laverre University take their positions, please welcome a couple of very distinguished guests! Professor Sycamore and Champion Diantha!"
The large screen to the side of the battlefield cut away from an image of the two teams logos and showed a booth where Sycamore and Diantha were seated, along with Aria, Wallace and Professor Goodshow. Sycamore and Diantha both had microphones. They waved, smiling, as the crowd cheered them on. Both had been praised for their efforts against the hunters in defending the city, and people were quite grateful to them. In fact, this battle wouldn't have even happened, at least not with this crowd, if Diantha hadn't defended the arena. And Sycamore had apparently protected much of the surrounding area after securing his lab.
As the crowd quieted down, Sycamore held up his microphone, waving once more as the crowd gave one last cheer. "Thank you very much, everyone," he said. "I know it's been a crazy couple of weeks with all of the IPL excitement and then the attack. We were admittedly unsure if it was wise to continue on with having this match after what happened. As you know, there was a great deal of damage around the city, despite the efforts of so many to repel the hunters. It is a great relief that we had so many brave trainers and Pokemon to keep them from doing more harm than they did. And not only prevent harm, but defeat the ones attempting to cause it. Thoroughly."
That brought another cheer, and Clemont didn't even mind as the screen flashed to images of him among those considered to be key in the defence of the city. They also included Ash and the others, fortunately. Clemont had finally made it clear to a reporter the other day that Ash and Serena were the ones who had actually landed the final blows against Raphael. His so called heroic rallying of the city was still adored, though.
"The thing is," Professor Sycamore then continued, "we realized something as we discussed the possibility of not finishing this tournament." The crowd was now surprisingly silent. There were a few murmurs here and there, but people were mostly quite focused on what Sycamore was saying. "We won. All of us. We worked together through a scary ordeal. When our friends were in danger, we stood up for one another. We couldn't forget that. Because of this determination, this entire arena was saved. In fact, many of our city's most important places were saved. Those efforts deserve something."
He looked to Diantha, who raised her microphone to speak. Clemont realized the crowd was even quieter now, the murmurs having stopped as well. "A Pokemon trainer's career is filled with many obstacles," she said, looking into the camera, and making it appear as though she was looking everyone in the eye. "Each of those obstacles leads to something new once it is surpassed. Perhaps it is a new obstacle. Perhaps it is a new place. Perhaps it is a new Pokemon. Perhaps a new friend." She paused, and the crowd waited. "No matter what it leads to, it is always an opportunity to show how you've grown and see where you may go next. We have two fantastic teams of trainers here today. Let us see how they've grown. We may all find out something about where we wish to go next. This battle is a celebration. Let's enjoy it!"
For a moment, there was silence. And then...the crowd cheered twice as loud as before. Clemont and the others couldn't help but join in.
"And there we have it, folks!" Robby called out, the announcer's voice shaking with excitement. "We go ahead with this championship match between Lumiose University and Laverre University with our eyes to the future and the opportunities ahead. Let's see how our two finalist teams fight alongside their Pokemon. They've demonstrated incredible bravery and heart so far in this tournament and the defence of this city. We'll see them take those skills to the battlefield now. Oh baby! Trevor! Sasha! Let the IPL finals begin!"
Clemont and the others leaned forward as the crowd quieted, and Trevor and Sasha pulled out their pokeballs. A moment later, the referee hovered forward atop his Aegislash. He raised his hand. "This will be a six on six full battle between Laverre University and Lumiose University. Each team member must use at least one Pokemon. The winner will be decided when all six Pokemon for one team are unable to battle." He looked to Trevor, and then Sasha, as well as each team. Both sides nodded their acceptance of the rules. "Trainers, please select your first Pokemon! By coin toss, Lumiose University will select first."
Trevor was quick to call out his Pokemon. Their whole team knew who it would be. He wanted to end this off as strong as possible. "Charizard, let's go!" he yelled, the Flame Pokemon emerging with a roar on the grass and forest field in front of him.
Sasha was next, and Clemont had a feeling she was ready for Trevor's choice, and would be changing up from who she had used in their last battle. "Chesnaught, you're up!"
Clemont raised his eyebrows in surprise at the choice, looking at the Spiny Armor Pokemon. It was strange to think that a Pokemon like Chespin could eventually become something that looked as intimidating as the hulking grass and fighting type. The spikes on its back looked like they would be a big problem. Still...it was a particularly weak Pokemon to Charizard in terms of typing.
"From what we've seen of Sasha, she knows what she's doing," Ash murmured, watching as both Pokemon braced themselves for the match to start. "I bet this field is to Chesnaught's advantage. It's not small, but it can still use the forest part more effectively than Charizard. Trevor will really have to focus on keeping his advantage in the air."
"Hopefully Trevor can pull off some of the tricks we've worked on with that Charizard of his," Flint said, folding his arms as the referee raised his arm again, ready to start the battle. "This should be an interesting one."
With that, all eyes were on the referee as he gave each trainer and Pokemon one last look, before waving his arm forward. "Let the battle begin!"
"Charizard, start things off with Dragon Claw!" Trevor shouted, surprising Clemont with his quick start. He certainly did seem more determined, he and Charizard tensed and ready for the moment they could strike.
The Flame Pokemon roared, flapping his wings to get himself in the air, before flapping them twice as hard to launch himself forward, sending a gust of wind behind him as he moved. As he flew forward, he raised his arms, claws glowing green and extending as he reached his opponent. Sasha didn't call an order, watching as Charizard slashed once, and then twice, knocking the Spiny Armor Pokemon off balance and then striking it to the ground, before flapping his wings and darting higher into the air.
"Oh wow! What a quick strike for Trevor and Charizard!" Robby called out, the Lumiose fans in the crowd cheering for the attack. "Perhaps Chesnaught, a grass and fighting type, will be no match for the fierce fire and flying type. I wonder if we'll see a switch?"
"That girl is up to something..." Agatha murmured. Clemont glanced at her, seeing her eyes narrowing as she looked across to Sasha, who was watching Charizard carefully, before her eyes darted to the field. Clemont knew it was true. She was clearly hoping to lure Trevor into some kind of trap. Hopefully Trevor would be ready.
"Chesnaught, stay beneath the trees!" Sasha then ordered, pointing to the more forested section of the battlefield. "Charizard will be slower to reach you there!"
"Already on the defensive?" Ash said, sounding confused. "That's not how she battled Trevor the last two times."
"She's put Chesnaught in danger, though," Clemont said, watching as Chesnaught followed Sasha's order, staying under the thick canopies of the trees, out of sight of the airborne Charizard. "The field can be attacked, too."
Ash nodded, although he didn't look convinced. Neither did Agatha. Apparently Trevor was thinking along the same lines as Clemont, though, pumping his fist as he called his next order. "Charizard, hit those trees with Fire Spin! Burn those leaves away!"
Charizard roared loudly again, and there was a great deal of excited murmuring from the crowd as he unleashed the swirling flames down towards the trees that Chesnaught hid under. It took a moment, but before too long, almost the entire forested area of the battlefield was lit up, fire spreading quickly from tree to tree, burning the leaves away. Chesnaught was crying out in pain as it ran away, panting as it reached the grassy section of the field, its body partially smoking from where it had been hit by some flames.
"It looks like this could be a dominating first match for Trevor and Lumiose if this keeps up!" Robby commented, the crowd excitedly crying out in agreement. "Strength in close and at a distance look like they'll be too much for Sasha and Chesnaught to handle!"
"We'll make it even harder to handle!" Trevor called out, holding his camera, the large screen focusing briefly on him as he held it up, finger going to the Key Stone. "Charizard, let's finish this in style. Mega Evolve!"
Charizard roared, and the crowd went wild as a bright, blinding light extended from Charizard's Mega Stone to Trevor's Key Stone. It lit up the entire field as power exuded from the transformation, and Clemont was sure he could see Charizard's form shining somewhat brighter than the surrounding lights as he changed form. After a few moments, the lights finally dimmed, though, revealing the powered up Mega Evolution, Mega Charizard launching himself into the air upon completing the transformation. Immediately, the sun began to shine brighter. Much brighter.
"That's it..." Ash whispered, eyes snapping to Sasha. Clemont didn't understand, but a moment later, he looked to Sasha as well, seeing her smiling. Then she called her next order.
"Chesnaught, Synthesis!" she yelled, the Spiny Armor Pokemon immediately embracing the brighter sunlight as he spread his arms out. To his left, the forest still burned, the sunlight making the heat feel more extreme, but Chesnaught didn't seem bothered, his body glowing as he quickly began to heal.
"Charizard's ability upon Mega Evolution is Drought," Flint explained, tapping his finger on his arm nervously. "It will power up his fire moves, but...it can have advantages for grass types as well. Very clever of Sasha to make a Mega Evolution by her opponent work for her."
Clemont couldn't help but feel a little uneasy about things now. Charizard still appeared to have the advantage, but he had to guess that Sasha had more than just Synthesis as her plan. She probably had a way to make an offensive move now.
Trevor apparently wasn't interested in letting her lead the way, though. "Charizard, Heat Wave!"
"Spiky Shield!"
There were many gasps throughout the crowd as Chesnaught quickly curled up in a ball, the spikes on his back extending outward as a massive burst of scorching flames crashed into him. There was no cry of pain or alarm, and as Charizard stopped his attack, panting a bit from the effort of unleashing such a powerful move, Chesnaught emerged unscathed, looking up at his opponent with a smirk.
"Now, Belly Drum!" Sasha commanded, Chesnaught straightening up at the order.
"Chessss!" Chesnaught cried out, suddenly slamming his arms into his abdomen, a glow passing over his body with each hit.
"He's lowering his health to raise his attack power!" Clemont said in surprise. "She's planning to use Synthesis to get it back, and block Charizard with Spiky Shield if he tries to stop her."
"Fascinating strategy," Agatha admitted, eyes scanning the field. "It might not be as effective as she thought, though," she added with a smile. Clemont followed her gaze, wondering why she was looking at the burning trees, which were now more smokey.
"Charizard, take advantage!" Trevor ordered. "Get in there with another Dragon Claw!"
Charizard roared in response to Trevor's order, flapping his wings hard again and descending on Chesnaught with all the speed he could muster. He pulled back his claws once more, the green glow looking brighter in the hot sun, although some of the smoke was dimming it slightly.
"Spiky Shield, once more!" Sasha commanded quickly, eyeing Charizard as he rushed towards Chesnaught. Clemont winced as the Spiny Armor Pokemon shielded himself in his spiky shell once more. Charizard slammed into it with a screech of pain.
"Oh baby! What a counter!" Robby called out as Charizard crashed into the ground, flung back from Chesnaught's Spiky Shield, the grass and fighting type emerging quickly, ready for Sasha's next order.
"Now, Synthesis, once more!"
"Naaauuught!" Chesnaught cried out, raising his arms up high as he glowed briefly. It seemed to be a bit of a shorter glow than the first use. Still, he looked more threatening now that he'd used Belly Drum and healed himself.
"Hammer Arm!" Sasha followed up, smirking as Charizard tried to struggle to his feet, shaking his head from the Spiky Shield. Unfortunately, Chesnaught was on him in a heartbeat, his arm bulging with extra power from Belly Drum, and shining brightly as it swung forward.
Charizard roared and his eyes bulged as Chesnaught struck him in the chest. He was sent flying backwards, crashing hard into the ground, ripping up dirt as he skidded across the field. Chesnaught looked to be panting from the effort from the powerful strike, but Charizard looked quite shaky as he struggled to rise.
"Well, it certainly looks as though the early concerns about the mismatch between Chesnaught and Charizard were a bit hasty," Robby called out, the crowd murmuring excitedly at the turn of events. "Perhaps Charizard is the outmatched one here!"
Apparently Trevor didn't think so, though, and he seemed ready to make his next move, glancing at the sky as the smoke began to let up a bit. "Charizard, hit Chesnaught with a Fire Spin!"
"I don't think so!" Sasha ordered, smirking back. "Spiky Shield!"
Charizard roared again as he unleashed his swirling flames, the attack spinning around Chesnaught as he protected himself once more. Clemont frowned in confusion a moment, watching Chesnaught emerge safely again, while Charizard put himself back in the air. Then, Clemont began to understand.
"Dragon Claw!"
"Spiky Shield!"
This time, as Charizard rushed towards Chesnaught, the Spiny Armor Pokemon moved to protect himself in his shield once again, but the spikes wouldn't extend, and he appeared to falter a bit from the failure. Charizard struck hard, bringing a cry of pain and alarm from Chesnaught as he stumbled, turning in alarm at his Spiky Shield failing. He was wincing. It was the first attack since his Synthesis, so his health shouldn't have been so low. Sasha seemed alarmed.
"The smoke..." Clemont whispered, seeing it mostly died down, no longer interfering with the sun, but remembering it almost shading the field as it burned the trees. "It didn't let Chesnaught heal properly after using Belly Drum. And since Spiky Shield is more likely to fail on consecutive uses, Trevor knew he could get in close by triggering it early."
"Now he can finish this. With good old fashioned fire!" Flint said, pumping his fist as Sasha panicked, calling for Hammer Arm.
"Heat Wave!" Trevor shouted, holding his camera up to take a shot of the finishing blow. Fire exploded across the field in front of him.
Chesnaught fell to the ground, smoke billowing up from his body as he twitched and then lay still.
"Chesnaught is unable to battle! Charizard is the winner!" the referee called out, floating down on his Aegislash as he made the call. "Laverre University," he said, pointing towards their side of the field, "please select your next trainer or Pokemon."
It appeared Sasha would be fighting just the once today. That didn't surprise Clemont, as he assumed Anton would be using the maximum four Pokemon that one team member was allowed. Trevor's opponent seemed proud of her effort, though, nodding to him in respect as she recalled Chesnaught to his pokeball, before heading to the Laverre balcony, where Dean was departing from.
Clemont was almost tempted to ask Trevor to switch, wanting to have a chance at beating Dean's Diggersby. Trevor had done well, though, and Charizard still had some energy. They deserved the chance to keep going. It wouldn't be easy, though, despite Mega Evolution. As Dean called out his Diggersby, Clemont could see that Chesnaught's damage had definitely slowed Charizard somewhat, and Diggersby looked ready to fight.
When the referee called for the match to resume, though, Trevor was ready with the first move once more. "Charizard, Heat Wave!"
"Agility to dodge!" Dean countered.
As Charizard roared, the Digging Pokemon began to hop, darting from side to side. Clemont watched carefully, seeing the speed increasing bit by bit as Charizard embraced the heat from the sun. The blaze was beginning to lessen somewhat, but it would definitely still have an effect if Charizard could land this attack. Unfortunately, Diggersby was too quick.
The blast of scorching hot flames ripped into the grassy field, tearing up the earth as Diggersby leaped over it, crying out happily as he hopped to the side, his speed already too great to quickly hit with the Heat Wave. Clemont knew what that meant, having some experience against Dean's fierce combination.
"Hammer Arm!" Dean ordered, pointing ahead to Charizard as he panted from the exertion of the attack. The Digging Pokemon rushed towards him, his massive, muscular ear glowing with increased power. He slammed it hard against Charizard's side, sending him crashing hard to the ground. Fortunately, the Flame Pokemon was sturdy enough to follow up with Trevor's quick counter.
"Fire Spin!"
Charizard roared, gasps heard around the arena as people watched him bounce back from the powerful blow, unleashing the swirling flames on Diggersby. Quickly, the Digging Pokemon was surrounded by flames, crying out in pain and surprise as they struck and burned him in a tornado of fire. The Lumiose fans roared in approval, Clemont shaking his head in exasperation as he heard Bonnie near the front row shouting the loudest.
"Things don't look good for Dean and Laverre!" Robby said, his voice ringing out in a brief moment of silence. "Trevor may quickly put them down two Pokemon with his ferocious Mega Charizard!"
"Not likely!" Dean laughed out, pumping his fist as he called his next order. "Mud Shot to break through! Then use Double Kick!"
"Dig diggersby!" Diggersby cried out, a sudden blast of brown globules shooting up in a line through the swirling flames. A moment later, the ground type burst out of the flames, darting towards a stunned Charizard.
"Counter with Dragon Claw!" Trevor shouted, as Diggersby neared the Flame Pokemon.
Fortunately, Charizard was quick enough to prepare the attack, his claw glowing green and extending outwards, before he slashed out towards Diggersby. The Digging Pokemon's leg slammed against the claw, the two Pokemon straining against one another as each tried to force their attack through. It looked like Charizard's Mega Evolution would give him the edge, though, the fire type shoving forward once more to push Diggersby back, slicing his claw along its side as he did so.
Diggersby wasn't out of it just yet, though, quickly spinning around and driving his other leg hard into Charizard's jaw. The Flame Pokemon grunted in surprise, eyes bulging as his head jerked back and he stumbled to the side. Trevor quickly ordered for him to take flight, hoping to get the aerial advantage back. Unfortunately, Dean was too fast.
"Chase with Agility, and then use Hammer Arm to finish this up!"
"Diggersby!"
As Charizard scrambled to flap his wings, Diggersby began to hop, building up speed. Then, the fire and flying type kicked off, darting into the air, staying just out of Diggersby's reach as he moved to engage. He didn't have the energy to move fast enough, though, his body still too close to the ground as Diggersby continued hopping, kicking off a burned tree to fling upwards to put himself within range.
"Dig!" Diggersby grunted out, slamming his muscular ear hard onto Charizard's back, sending him crashing to the ground, where grass and dirt exploded into the air upon impact. He glowed briefly as his form reverted back to normal and Diggersby landed softly a few feet away. The referee moved forward on his Aegislash.
"Charizard is unable to battle! Diggersby is the winner!" he announced. "Lumiose University will now select their next Pokemon.
As Robby commented on the excitement of the battle and the crowd voiced their excitement over the match now being tied, Trevor recalled his Charizard, sighing and turning to make his way off the platform. Ash and the coaches wished Clemont luck as he stepped off the balcony and made his way to the battlefield at Trevor's wave. This would be his last chance to take down Dean and his Diggersby. It was time to do it.
"Great battling, Trevor," Clemont said, pausing as he passed his teammate. "You and Charizard really did a great job. I think I've got a good plan to beat Diggersby now."
Trevor grinned in response. "Thanks Clemont. I wanted to leave an impression, and I think I did. Now it's up to you and Ash. Go get 'em!"
They gave each other a high five, and then Clemont finished making his way to the platform, pulling out his pokeball as he reached it, before glancing back to the stands behind him. He could see Korrina there, sitting with the rest of their group. He felt a little more confident as their eyes met and she winked at him. She mouthed something, and Clemont missed it, adjusting his glasses as he tried to focus more. Apparently she decided to just yell it.
"Go win this, Clemont! I love you!"
He blushed, realizing her yell had carried quite a bit, the crowd a little quieter in anticipation of his choice in Pokemon, and Robby waiting as well to announce it. Apparently the crowd couldn't resist the charm they saw in the moment, though, and it got a loud cheer. Clemont sighed, smiling back and waving, before turning back to the field.
"Here we go," he whispered, holding up the pokeball. He threw it forward, the light flashing as he yelled, "Bunnelby, let's go!"
As Bunnelby emerged, the tension appeared to immediately be felt by not only him and Diggersby, but the crowd as well. Many in the crowd wouldn't have known about their previous matches, although Robby was informing them now, but it was still an important part of the battle. With both teams having switched trainers and Pokemon once now, the feel for what each team could do was being felt. Clemont's performance here would be key in building momentum for himself and Ash.
Robby seemed to echo Clemont's thoughts as he continued building up the match. "Both trainers will need to be sharp here, folks! Clemont's Bunnelby is fresh, but Diggersby is fierce with that Hammer Arm of his, and being evolved, it'll have the edge in raw strength. Neither side will want to fall behind as we near the middle stage of this match!"
Clemont couldn't help but smile at the pressure, surprising himself a bit as he watched both Pokemon brace themselves, the referee calling for both sides to get ready. Against the hunters, he had been on edge the entire time. This was a time to just enjoy the challenge. He would do just that. He let Korrina's next shout of encouragement inspire him further as the referee called for the match to resume. He quickly made the first command.
"Bunnelby, underground with Dig!" he ordered, knowing he needed to avoid Dean's Hammer Arm combination as much as possible. If he could keep it from speeding up after using it, he might just have a chance to overwhelm it.
Dean, apparently, was willing to take the opportunity, however. With no resistance from Bunnelby, Diggersby was free to move around up top. "Agility!"
As the larger Digging Pokemon began to rapidly hop around, Clemont knew he had to act. Otherwise, Dean would have Diggersby strike the ground with Hammer Arm as he had last time. He clenched his fists. He was already forced into Dean's game. "Emerge with Double Team!"
It was similar to what he'd done last time, but it was the best move he had. Diggersby slowed to a stop as dozens of Bunnelby copies began to emerge from a hole near the centre of the field, each of them beginning to run around as they hopped out. It was a dizzying sight, but Diggersby focused carefully.
"Fire at the hole with Mud Shot!" Dean ordered.
Clemont's eyes widened. It was a clever move. If Dean plugged the hole before more copies could emerge, he would narrow down which one was Bunnelby. He needed to engage now. "You use Mud Shot, too, and then use Double Slap!"
As Diggersby began firing the globules of mud towards the hole, blocking the escape path for the remaining Bunnelby copies, the ones now above ground began firing at him. His Mud Shot proved larger and more effective, quickly blocking the hole enough to stop Double Team, but he was distracted enough to stagger back as globules of mud fired at him in all directions. This opened a path for the true Bunnelby to charge in and slam his ears hard into Diggersby's chin, before ducking low and striking quickly at his legs as well.
As Bunnelby hopped back, Diggersby shaking his head from the attack and staggering a bit, Dean quickly ordered a counter. "Hit him with another Mud Shot!"
"Diggersby!" Diggersby roared in anger, the globules quickly forming before being launched at Bunnelby, who was no longer protected by his copies after revealing himself. He hopped back, doing his best to keep on the move, but Diggersby's attack was too big and his speed was too great.
"Get underground again, Bunnelby!" Clemont ordered in desperation. He was frustrated. Dean didn't look it, but he was extremely clever. He knew how to use brute strength to pull the other trainer into his game. Even one so aware as Clemont. They had to find some way to keep him from using that combination.
"Hammer Arm on the ground!" Dean shouted, him and his Diggersby grinning as he pulled his massive ears back and then slammed them into the field, shaking the trees that had come down from Charizard's burning. The ground shook a few moments more, and then cracked as Bunnelby was thrown out, crying out in alarm. Dean wasn't done, though, quickly following up. "Double Kick!"
"Dig diggersby!" Diggersby cried out, leaping towards the airborne Bunnelby, and swinging his legs out to slam into his smaller, pre-evolved counterpart.
"Bun!" Bunnelby cried out in pain, slamming hard into the ground, shaking his head as he tried to steady himself. As he got to his feet, he glanced back at Clemont. It was clear he was feeling the same frustration. They'd lost to Dean and Diggersby twice before. They couldn't have it happen again. But...what could they change?
"Hang in there, Clemont!" Korrina then called out, her voice carrying over the loud crowd. "I know you can do this. It's just a problem to solve, like any science problem you might have. You figured out what the hunters were doing with the airwaves. I know you can stop this, too!"
And, elegant as ever, Bonnie chimed in as well. "Kick his butt, Clemont!"
He took a deep breath. Korrina was right. It was just a problem to solve. And, to solve a problem, he needed to look at the individual parts of the issue. The first, of course, was Diggersby's raw strength. Bunnelby couldn't beat him head on. So, they needed strategies like Dig and Double Team to avoid it and move in for quick strikes. Unfortunately, Dean was clever enough to halt those moves quickly and then was even able to use that brute strength to make escape impossible.
So again, Hammer Arm and raw power was still the problem. Perhaps, Clemont could use Bunnelby's smaller frame and speed as an advantage, and chip away at Diggersby. Getting in close was dangerous with Hammer Arm, though, and a battle exchanging Mud Shot wouldn't work either. Hammer Arm would have been beatable if it continued to wear down Diggersby's speed, but Dean used Agility so effectively that Bunnelby couldn't get a chance to attack.
That meant Agility needed to be what they targeted. But...how could they do it? Double Team wouldn't work, and Mud Shot would be deflected easily. If they used Double Slap, that would leave Bunnelby vulnerable. Clemont frowned, narrowing his eyes as Dean ordered the speed increasing move once again. He could see Diggersby hopping around expertly, avoiding where Bunnelby had dug the hole and he'd quickly filled it up. He was so fast that if he did stumble, it would certainly leave him vulnerable...
That's it! Clemont realized, smiling as Diggersby slowed down, the Digging Pokemon leering at Bunnelby as he flexed his muscular ears. They'd have to trigger Hammer Arm first. He hoped Bunnelby would be okay. "Bunnelby, Double Team now!"
"Bun!" The smaller Digging Pokemon leaped into action, rushing towards Diggersby, splitting off into dozens of copies as he did so. Diggersby watched carefully, ready to strike, but each copy kept its distance, beginning to run in a circle as it neared him.
"Now, Mud Shot! Rapid fire!" Clemont ordered.
"Bun bun!" Bunnelby cried out, his voice echoing as the copies all did so. Clemont could see that Dean was confused, but he was clearly waiting, hoping Bunnelby could be drawn in. Unfortunately for him, he wasn't paying attention as a thick layer of dirt began to build up on the field all around him.
"Dig, let's go!" Clemont ordered, finally satisfied with the status of the field. Dean still didn't seem to get it, instead looking pleased that he'd be able to strike the field with Hammer Arm again. Robby meanwhile, seemed to think Clemont was desperately trying the same move as before, announcing to the crowd that it seemed a risky choice. Perhaps it was, but it wasn't going to end quite the same.
"Hammer Arm, Diggersby!" Dean shouted, just as Bunnelby's copies disappeared and he burrowed underground, mud starting to fall into the hole he'd made, seemingly making it disappear. He darted up a couple times as Diggersby raised his ears up, building strength, but each time he went down, dirt seemingly covered up the hole, almost making it look like there were no holes.
"Diggersby!" Diggersby then shouted, slamming down onto the field and shaking it once more.
The mud sprayed up into the air as the earth seemingly exploded upwards. This time, however, it seemed to have much more give, and as Bunnelby was launched into the air, he seemed much steadier, righting himself quickly so that Diggersby couldn't quickly strike him again. As he landed, he looked pleased as he studied the once grassy field in front of him. It was essentially mud and dirt now. It was time to go on the offensive.
"Dig! One more time!" Clemont ordered, Dean looking perplexed as he called the attack. Clemont knew how he'd respond, though. Dean couldn't risk Hammer Arm lowering Diggersby's speed too much. He'd need to use Agility. Bunnelby's head continued to poke up briefly throughout the field, before darting back down, his holes seemingly disappearing as he did so.
"Agility! Build up some speed!" Dean shouted, narrowing his eyes. He had no idea what Clemont was up to. Diggersby was about to, though. The large Digging Pokemon leaped into the air.
He stopped as soon as he landed.
"Dig?" Diggersby looked around, eyes wide as he halted, before suddenly, his weight pulled him further underground. He tried to hop again, but he just sunk further. It finally dawned on him and Dean what had happened. The crowd gasped, excited murmuring following moments later.
"Let's do this, Bunnelby!" Clemont shouted. "Double Slap and Mud Shot!"
With Diggersby completely halted by the muddy hole he'd fallen into, he couldn't escape. Bunnelby battered at him again and again as he tried. Dean had him use Double Kick to try and escape, which only sunk him further in. Hammer Arm had a similar effect. His attempts at using Mud Shot to hit Bunnelby only firmed up the rest of the field for the other Digging Pokemon. And, each time he attempted to fight back, his efforts were more and more sluggish as Bunnelby wore him down.
"Double Slap!" Clemont ordered, continuing to cycle his attacks. "Mud Shot! Underground with Dig again!"
The attacks kept coming, Diggersby unable to do much but take them as he was hit. He was strong, but even he couldn't take this assault with no escape. After one more sluggish attempt at Hammer Arm, and another missed Mud Shot, the opening was there for one last Double Slap.
"Bun bun!" Bunnelby finally yelled, emerging behind Diggersby with glowing ears and striking his evolved counterpart hard in the back. Diggersby slumped forward as Bunnelby flipped back. He looked at Clemont in satisfaction, the referee floating forward on his Aegislash to make the call.
"What an incredible turnaround for Clemont and Bunnelby!" Robby called out as the official call was made. Dean gave a friendly wave of respect to Clemont after recalling Diggersby, and then began to head off his platform. It appeared it would be Anton the rest of the way. Robby was too excited to notice the Laverre captain heading out, though. "It was looking like brute strength would win the day for Dean, but Clemont and Bunnelby pulled off an impressive trap to seal the match in their favour. With their team up once again, can they push Laverre back even further?!"
He finally noticed Anton as the Laverre captain took his place, announcing him as he pulled out his pokeball. Clemont, meanwhile, glanced back at Ash. His friend made no signal that he wanted to head out yet, though. Apparently he wanted Clemont to keep up with whatever momentum he'd gathered. Clemont smiled, turning his attention back to the field.
"One might've forgotten that we've actually battled before, huh Clemont?" Anton called out, smiling in excitement for the upcoming fight. He looked different without his sunglasses. Less...distant. Of course, the smile helped that.
"You'll find I'm much stronger than last time, Anton," Clemont told him. He meant it, too. He'd never felt more ready.
"Well, then I guess we'd better start things off with something from before." Anton threw out his pokeball. "Hitmonlee, let's go!"
As Anton's fighting type emerged, Clemont couldn't help but remember the day Anton had come to his gym. He'd arrogantly demanded a battle after easily beating Clembot, trying to prove how pointless gyms were. He was so different now. He was battling with his Pokemon for fun this time. Clemont felt that would make him stronger. But...it would make him stronger, too. He knew Hitmonlee was strong from the fight so long ago, but Diggersby had been incredibly strong, too. Bunnelby could do it.
As the referee called for the match to begin, both Clemont and Anton ordered their first attacks, the crowd roaring in excitement as both Pokemon moved to obey.
"Double Slap!"
"Bulk Up!"
The ground was still a little unsteady around where Diggersby had fallen, but thanks to his attempts at using Mud Shot, the rest of the field was much firmer. Bunnelby was likely small enough, but it was still a help as he took off towards Hitmonlee, kicking off hard as he ran. He bolted towards the fighting type with everything he had, ears glowing as he leaped forward. Hitmonlee braced to face him, muscles bulging as he raised his attack and defence power!
"Bun bun!" Bunnelby cried out, slamming his ears once, then twice into his opponent, the first attack making Hitmonlee wince, despite his bulging muscles, and the second making him stumble back a step. He hadn't expected Bunnelby to strike so hard, clearly remembering his dominant victory last time. Clemont felt a little more confident seeing that.
"Dig, Bunnelby!" Clemont ordered, hoping to keep Hitmonlee uneasy. If Bunnelby could strike from anywhere, it would be hard for him to keep on the move.
As Bunnelby burrowed underground, though, Anton had the perfect counter ready. "Bounce, Hitmonlee! Then strike the ground as hard as you can!"
Clemont hesitated as Hitmonlee kicked off, soaring high into the air. He was tempted to try to draw Hitmonlee into sinking like Diggersby, but his frame probably wouldn't allow for it in the same way. His best choice was to give Hitmonlee a target. Many targets. "Bunnelby, emerge with Double Team!"
"Bun!" Bunnelby then cried out, a hole popping open near the centre of the field, before dozens of Bunnelby copies began leaping out, running around the field in all directions. Clemont glanced up, seeing Hitmonlee staring down, momentum halted as he prepared to descend.
"Monlee!" the fighting type then cried out, descending towards the ground with rapid speed, leg outstretched. He seemed focused, eyes darting across the field as he picked his spot to land. Then, as he reached the ground, hitting with a powerful impact, all the Bunnelby copies leaped upwards, managing to avoid the shaking earth.
"Now, Blaze Kick!" Anton ordered, grinning as he gave the command.
Clemont was confused, watching Hitmonlee focus on a target and kick off once more. Then, suddenly, he was kicking out with his foot alight with flames. He struck one of the seemingly many Bunnelby in his vicinity, and there was a cry of pain as he landed his kick.
"Buuun!" Bunnelby cried out, body smoking as he was sent flying across the field, crashing into a smokey stump of a downed tree. He winced, struggling to his feet as fast as he could, but Hitmonlee was already on the move.
"Now, Close Combat!" Anton ordered, swinging his arm out with the command. Clemont could hear the desperation in his voice. This was a chance for him to even the score and keep Hitmonlee relatively fresh. He knew just how important this stage of the battle was.
"Monlee!" Hitmonlee cried out, reaching Bunnelby quickly and lashing out with a barrage of kicks, his leg almost impossible to follow as it struck.
"Bunnelby!" Clemont called out in concern, hearing the Lumiose fans crying out in worry as well.
As Bunnelby was sent flying once more by the finishing kick from Hitmonlee, he cried out in pain, before crashing to the ground with a thud. Somehow, though, he struggled to his feet, the Lumiose fans cheering him on as Robby praised his determination.
"Wow, this is one fierce Bunnelby!" the announcer said, excited cheers ringing out throughout the arena. "Strike after strike from Diggersby and Hitmonlee and Clemont's fierce fighter just won't give up!"
Clemont smiled, glancing back at Ash at that comment. He grinned back, nodding as Clemont took a deep breath, looking back to the field. "Of course they wouldn't give up. They could still win this."
"Bunnelby, let's show Hitmonlee just how fierce you are! Dig, one more time!" he yelled, his Digging Pokemon shaking himself to clear his head, before nodding and quickly burrowing underground.
"That didn't work last time, Clemont," Anton said, smirking confidently. "It won't work this time either. Hitmonlee-"
"Bun!" Bunnelby emerged faster than even Clemont expected, although he'd hoped for it to be a quick strike. The Digging Pokemon barrelled into Hitmonlee's back, sending the Kicking Pokemon stumbling forward, eyes wide with surprise.
"Follow up with Mud Shot!' Clemont shouted, thrusting his palm forward as he gave the command. The crowd cheered excitedly, both team's fans impressed with the quick turnaround.
"Buuun!" Bunnelby, still in midair, fired off the globules of mud, a quick burst of three striking Hitmonlee as he attempted to turn around, knocking the Kicking Pokemon down all the way this time, leaving him vulnerable for yet another assault. He might've been a little more stable had he not used Close Combat, but the defensive advantage he'd gained from Bulk Up was lost after the cost of the powerful attack.
"Double Slap, let's go!" Clemont ordered, Bunnelby already darting forward as he hit the ground. His ears glowed with power as he lashed out, striking Hitmonlee hard in the shoulder as he tried to stand, sending him rolling over, wincing.
"Steady yourself and counter with Blaze Kick!" Anton finally shouted, looking shocked by Clemont's quick moves. He'd clearly hoped Hitmonlee would have the advantage after Bunnelby's match with Diggersby. Clemont hadn't allowed it.
"Hitmonleeeeee!" Hitmonlee cried out as Bunnelby darted forward for another Double Slap. The Kicking Pokemon managed to right himself mid roll, before swinging his flaming leg forward. The two attacks clashed with a spray of fiery sparks coming from Hitmonlee's Blaze Kick. Unfortunately, his attack was just a little more powerful, likely thanks to his previous Bulk Up. He managed to push through, sending Bunnelby crashing to the ground, crying out as he hit the ground.
"Bun...bunnel..." Bunnelby panted, doing his best to struggle to his feet as Hitmonlee winced and stood upright as well. Clemont could see he didn't have much left. They needed their next attack to be worth it. Anton seemed to feel that way as well, locking eyes with Clemont, looking more focused than ever.
"Bunnelby, Dig!" Clemont then ordered, figuring Anton would react quicker this time, but having another plan ready.
Anton was much faster this time, smiling as he called his order nearly at the same instant. "Bounce, Hitmonlee! Then descend with Blaze Kick!"
Then, in an instant, both Pokemon went in opposite directions. Bunnelby burrowed underground, while Hitmonlee kicked off towards the sky with everything he had. For a moment, things were silent as Hitmonlee soared and Bunnelby stayed underground. Robby didn't comment, and the fans appeared to be holding their breath for this next clash. Clemont waited, ready for his and Bunnelby's moment. Finally, Hitmonlee reached the pinnacle of his jump, and began to descend, aiming his foot down, flames engulfing it.
"Bunnelby, emerge and fire off Mud Shot straight down!" Clemont then ordered. "Use the momentum and hit back with Double Slap!"
At his call, Clemont's loyal fighter emerged, bolting into the air with everything he had, picking up speed as he sent a barrage of mud balls towards the ground beneath him. Then, as he and Hitmonlee rushed towards each other, his ears began to glow, ready to meet Blaze Kick with all the power he could muster.
"Monlee!"
"Bun!"
They crashed into each other, and for a moment, they halted in midair, fire shooting out from Hitmonlee's Blaze Kick as it crashed into the sped up Double Slap. Then, as they strained against one another, Bunnelby's ear began to slip, the Blaze Kick just managing to push through, striking him in the face, bringing a grunt of pain. However, as both Pokemon fell towards the ground, Bunnelby managed to push forward a little more as well, his other ear just managing to strike into Hitmonlee's chest, making the Kicking Pokemon's landing just as rough as his as he fell awkwardly, body smoking.
Both Pokemon crashed into the ground, dirt exploding in twin bursts as their bodies hit. Then, as the dust settled, neither Pokemon stirred. The referee moved forward on his Aegislash, inspecting each Pokemon. Then, he raised both arms. "Both Hitmonlee and Bunnelby are unable to battle! It's a draw! Both Laverre University and Lumiose University will select their next Pokemon!"
As the crowd roared in excitement, Clemont gaped at the field, surprised by the result. Hitmonlee had been just as fierce an opponent as Diggersby. Perhaps even more so. Bunnelby had managed to take both down with him, though. Clemont couldn't have been more proud. He recalled his loyal fighter to his pokeball, smiling. "Thank you, Bunnelby. You were great."
He took a quick glance back to the balcony where his team watched, wondering if Ash would want to make a switch now, but he seemed happy to have Clemont continue. Clemont was happy to do so as well. He had a feeling he knew who Anton would choose next, and he had the perfect Pokemon to battle it. Both would enjoy the chance.
A moment later, Anton confirmed Clemont's suspicions, grinning as he threw out his next pokeball. "Vivillon, let's go!" he shouted as the light flashed, his Scale Pokemon emerging and flapping its wings as it flew higher into the air, looking excited for the chance to battle. "I owe you a lot for helping my Vivillon, Clemont. You and Korrina. It's because of you guys it can battle here today."
"I'm glad we could help," Clemont said, smiling as he looked up at the bug and flying type. "But it's not just Korrina and me you should thank. He held up his pokeball. "There's someone who'd like a chance to see how strong his friend is at the top of his game. Elekid, come on out!" He threw the pokeball forward, and a moment later, the light flashed, the Electric Pokemon emerging with a spark of electricity.
"Bee bee!" Elekid cried out excitedly, puffing out his chest as the crowd cheered. Clemont could hear Korrina cheering the loudest.
"Viii!" Vivillon called out happily upon seeing Elekid. It looked determined, too. They were friends, but it was excited to test its strength.
"Bee bee!" Elekid said in response, holding a fist up, showing he was ready to fight as well.
Anton grinned. "All right then. Let's see how a couple of training buddies match up. Give it everything you've got, Elekid!"
"Bee!" Elekid nodded, grinning back at Clemont as the referee signalled they were about to begin, Robby announcing the type mismatch, but assuring the crowd that Anton's Vivillon would likely be very strong.
Then, the referee waved his arm. "Resume the battle!"
Anton started things off, clearly ready to see just how Vivillon would do. With how quickly it responded, Clemont expected it would do very well. "Aerial Ace, now!"
"Thunder Punch!" Clemont countered.
Both Pokemon were darting forward immediately, Vivillon's wings flapping rapidly, while Elekid ran with all he had. Then, Vivillon dove down, folding its wings, while Elekid punched forward, fist crackling with electricity. Sparks shot out all around them, the dirt around them shooting into the air.
Clemont was impressed with the force behind Vivillon's strike. Against a Pokemon with a clear type advantage, it held strong, even forcing Elekid to slide back a bit. Fortunately, Elekid had another attack ready. "Thunderbolt!"
"Bee bee!" Elekid cried out, his plug-like horns sparking before unleashing the bolt of electricity. It shot out, engulfing Vivillon.
"Fight it, and hit back with Signal Beam!" Anton shouted, voice ringing out clearly with the firm command.
Clemont's eyes widened as he saw Vivillon struggle through the super effective attack, a green beam forming quickly before firing down towards Elekid, exploding against him. The Electric Pokemon cried out in surprise from the force of it, flying back and crashing to the ground, dust blowing up around him.
"A fierce counter by Vivillon!" Robby called out excitedly as both Pokemon steadied themselves. "A nasty Thunderbolt for sure, but an impressive Signal Beam to even the score! Electric attacks may not be as much of an advantage against Vivillon as Clemont might've hoped!"
Clemont shrugged at that comment. He supposed he would've expected a little more of an effect, but Vivillon had likely been well trained prior to being captured by hunters, and while with them would've been subject to forced battles based on reports he'd heard. It's training with Clemont and Korrina had helped it get back in form as well, and Anton had been working steadily with it once more since reuniting. This was no soft and pampered bug type. It was a fierce fighter that knew how to take a hit.
"Hang in there, Elekid," Clemont said to his electric type. "We'll need to be a little sharper. Let's get things going with Swift!"
"Bee bee!" Elekid answered, nodding as he locked his gaze onto Vivillon. Then, a moment later, he fired off the golden stars, a barrage of them heading straight for the Scale Pokemon. Anton didn't seem too concerned.
"Aerial Ace! Straight ahead!" he commanded, Vivillon flapping its wings right away and taking off.
The stars from Swift exploded into gold sparks as Vivillon charged through them. Clemont noticed Vivillon wince from the first couple, but as it gained momentum, it blasted through very effectively. Within moments it was charging down on a defenseless Elekid. "Viii!" it cried out, slamming into the electric type with full force, driving him back, head pushing against Elekid's chest.
"Elekid, fight back with Thunder Punch!" Clemont ordered, seeing Elekid stagger a bit from the attack, but pulling his fist back quickly, electricity surrounding it. Quickly, he thrust it forward, slamming it hard into Vivillon's side, sending the bug and flying type spinning to the left.
"Hurricane, now!" Anton quickly ordered, Vivillon managing to right itself in midair, shaking its head from the force of Elekid's Thunder Punch.
"Viii!" Vivillon then cried out, unleashing the massive gust of wind, sending dirt swirling all around the field, much of it driving into Elekid's face as he tried to shield himself. That was the least of his concerns, though, as a moment later, he was lifted off his feet, sent flying across the field before landing hard in the dirt once more, wincing from the impact. Vivillon stopped the Hurricane then, already prepared for Anton's next order.
"Aerial Ace, once more!"
"Try to fight back with Thunderbolt!" Clemont countered, seeing Elekid desperately trying to get to his feet.
"Bee...bee!" Elekid grunted, standing awkwardly but locking his eyes on Vivillon, his plug-like horns sparking as the Scale Pokemon approached. Then, just as Vivillon was nearing him, Elekid fired off the Thunderbolt, striking the bug type in the side as it tried to turn slightly to avoid the attack.
"Viii!" Vivillon cried out, crashing to the ground from the strike, sliding on the dirt to Elekid's right. It quickly turned its head, though, ready as Anton called for it to counter quickly.
"Signal Beam!"
"Bee!" Elekid was thrown back as the green beam of energy struck him hard in the side. He hit the ground hard, wincing as he rolled over, shaking his head to try to get his bearings. Vivillon was already getting back in the air.
"Aerial Ace, now!" Anton shouted, sensing his opportunity.
"Viii!"
Vivillon launched itself forward, reaching Elekid just as he managed to get to his feet. He wasn't on his feet long, eyes widening as Vivillon slammed into his chest once again. He stumbled back one step, then two, before his knees buckled, and fell backward. He didn't get up as the referee moved over to check.
"Elekid is unable to battle! Vivillon is the winner!"
"And Vivillon pulls off the upset to tie the match!" Robby shouted excitedly, the crowd cheering loudly for the impressive victory for Vivillon. "Folks, this match is as close as we'd hoped for, with each team now down to their final three Pokemon. With this being the case, we'll give them each a chance to regroup with a brief intermission. Then, we'll get started on the second half of the match, and find out who our Champions will be!"
With that, the excited murmuring of the crowd filled the stadium. Clemont recalled Elekid to his pokeball, waiting a moment as the dazed electric type congratulated Vivillon before doing so. Then, he called out his own congratulations to Anton, before turning back to head towards the balcony where his team waited.
Clemont couldn't help but smile as he approached his team. He'd managed to finally beat Dean, and he'd gotten past Anton's Hitmonlee as well. Bunnelby and Elekid had performed admirably. His job was completed now, however. As he looked at Ash, seeing his friend looking across to where Anton was meeting with his team, Clemont knew this was where things had been heading since the IPL began.
He and Trevor had fought hard for Lumiose University throughout the season. Ash had done an incredible job in leading them, though. They'd truly become a team, with Ash leading the charge. Laverre and Anton had been the toughest barrier for all of them. Now, they had a chance to surpass their biggest foe. Trevor had won, putting all his training with Charizard to the test. Clemont had won, too, finally overcoming Dean and his Diggersby and even his own small rivalry with Anton.
Ash needed to finish it, though. He and Greninja had fallen in the first match. They'd continued struggling with their special move in the next match. It would be a team effort, though. And that was how it needed to be. It was the same for Anton now as well. They were similar trainers in many ways. It was time to find out who would come out victorious.
Ash and Anton's biggest clash was finally here.
