Chapter XIV: Pokémon Rumble

AnimeJapan 2019 (アニメジャパン2019)/Tokyo Big Sight (東京ビッグサイト)/Private Gaming Area/7:10 PM (JST)

A few hours have passed and it was time for one of AnimeJapan 2019's main event attractions, albeit one that came out of the blue following Momobami Kirari's announcement. Kirari personally invited the Phantom Thieves, the Vein Remnants, and the Spiritual Gamblers as guests to participate in the private Pokémon tournament.

How this was to be decided was anyone's, except Momobami Kirari's, guess.

The Thieves, the Remnants, and the Gamblers entered the private Pokémon gaming area. It was a large space in a large open space usually reserved for big stage performances or special guest conferences. They saw Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka standing in the center of a black taped ellipse shape on the floor.

"Welcome, we're glad you could all make it," Kirari greeted their guests. "The tournament shall start at 8:00, but we have enough time to go over the layout of tonight's event."

"How are we doing this? One-on-one matches? Or, will these matches be determined in pairs?" Ren asked Kirari.

"Good question, Mr. Amamiya-Takamaki!" Sayaka replied. "You'll be competing in pairs… against one another."

Upon hearing this, there was a bit of a stir and quiet murmuring among the three groups. Some were hesitant to duel the other, but others were none too fazed. In Yumeko's case, she was always thrilled to compete against anyone in a game.

"Come now. Don't be too concerned about breaking friendships. This is all in good fun, my friends," Kirari assured some of the most concerned group members. "Although, our viewing audience surely wants to see some heated competition." She turned to a big screen showing numerous cheering and clapping con-goers anticipating the private event. "And we have a few guests who are most excited to see a thrilling show."

"What?" Mary gritted as she and the others turned to a stage full of seats.

There were guests invited to watch the private tournament. Among them were men in suits and some youth wearing Pokémon shirts with camera equipment. Sitting far behind them, the Spiritual Gamblers recognized some notable faces: Nishinotōin Yuriko, Yomozuki Runa, Yumemite Yumemi, and Manyuda Kaede. Totobami Terano & Yumi and Batsubami Rei are also seen with the other former Hyakkaou Private Academy students.

"Look who's there! Even Yuriko's here!" Itsuki pointed out.

"Oh, hey, guys! Did you come to watch us?!" Yumeko waved to the other gamblers in the audience.

Yuriko was flabbergasted by Yumeko and her friends' presence. "You're all here to compete?!"

Taking a cherry lollipop out of her mouth, Runa smirked. "Heheh, well, well, this should be interesting!"

"Hey, give us a good show!" Yumemi energetically cheered them on.

Kaede merely kept to himself and pretended not to acknowledge their presence, but Yumeko quickly got his attention.

"Hey! Are you going to say anything to me? Not even a hello?" Yumeko wondered with a shrug.

"Maybe he's too focused on watching us compete," Ryōta deduced Kaede's lack of interactions with them. Just then, he then just realized something and counted the members in their group. "Wait, but which of us are competing?"

"Surely, you don't mean all of us will be competing?" Makoto asked Kirari.

"Oh no, or that'd last us well past the late-night hours? Heavens no I wouldn't subject the audience to that long of an event without intermissions," Kirari replied. "This tournament will be decided with eight selected competitors matched in pairs." She opened her right hand, revealing an eight-sided die. "We will determine the pair match-ups with this. Pick your eight teams willing to compete."

"Eight teams out of all of us, huh?" Skyler checked with his Vein Remnant team. He mostly glanced over Hifumi and Io's way. "Well, throw my name in the ring. And it's a no-brainer who'll be my partner." He extended a hand to Hifumi, who graciously accepted.

"Count me in," Hifumi nodded.

"I'm ok with sitting out and cheering you two," Io smiled.

"Very good. Any other volunteers?" Kirari turned to the others.

"I'm in if Skyler's competing," Jack interjected.

Eva added. "And I'll be Jack's partner."

"So far, we have Skyler Jones & Togo Hifumi and Jack Rutherford & Eva Roux," Sayaka wrote the pairing names on folded paper. "I've marked them as Team 1 and Team 2."

"Excellent. Any others? Or, will we have to choose teams out of random?" Kirari raised a hand and looked for any other willing tournament pairings.

Ren lifted his glasses and put on his joker smirk. "Ann and I will compete, too!"

"That's what I like to hear," Kirari gave a smirk brimming with similar confidence as Ren's.

"I have Amamiya-Takamaki Ren and Ann marked as Team 3!" Sayaka announced.

Ann added. "Just a question, will we choose our Pocket Monster teams?"

"You most certainly can. I see some of you brought your own Nintendo 3DS, but we have a few spare for you to use and select your Pocket Monster teams," Kirari answered Ann's inquiry. She pointed to a giant screen on the far left. "Once we hook your Nintendo 3DS with cables to our computers, we'll be able to project computer simulations of the Pocket Monsters fighting in your matches."

Ryuji was taken aback. "Whoa, sweet! We'll see our own monsters duel?! That's effing badass!"

Futaba raised her hand. "Oh, oh, Inari and I are competing, too!"

Yusuke balked at this. "Now hold on a minute…!"

"Nope, no take backs! We're winning this baby!"

"Oh dear," sighed the artist.

"Inari?" Sayaka asked Yusuke.

"Yes, it's an affectionate name my friend here likes to call me by."

"I see. Ok, I have you two down," Sayaka wrote their names. "Kitagawa Yusuke and Sakura Futaba. You're Team 4."

Before Makoto could say anything, she saw Louis raise his hand and address Sayaka.

"Haru-chan and I will compete as a team!"

"Wait, hold on…!" Makoto objected until Haru caressed her face with a hand.

"It'll be ok, Mako-chan. I'm with someone I can depend on. Even if it was you he picked, I wouldn't object," Haru reassured her love partner.

Feeling Haru comforting her, Makoto smiled and willingly resigned Haru to be Louis's partner. "Go on. We're all here to have fun, right?"

"Yes! That's the spirit!" Haru nodded in approval.

"We have Team 5 determined," Sayaka jotted down Louis and Haru's names.

"Then I pick…" Makoto quickly turned and pointed to Yakumo. "...Yakumo as my partner!"

"Whoa, me?! That's random!" Yakumo gawked as he heard Emily giggling.

"I'm ok with it. Besides, I'm not good with playing these types of games," Emily admitted. She pushed Yakumo forward. "But, I know I've seen you play a couple of rounds of Pocket Monsters during break time!"

"Ok, I guess…" Yakumo scratched the back of his head. He modestly chuckled standing next to Makoto. "Just wanted to let you know, I'm not well-versed at this."

"It's ok. Let's give it our best," Makoto smiled.

"Team 6 has been decided," Sayaka confirmed.

"Only two teams left. Who's next?" Kirari patiently waited.

Suddenly, Midari whistles innocently and shoves her foot onto Mary's butt. She promptly shoved her next to Yumeko.

"Here's two takers!" Midari announced.

"Hey, what's the big idea, you one-eyed bit-?!" Mary angrily snapped as Yumeko pulled her into a hug.

"Yeah! It's you and me, Mary! We're gonna own this tournament!" Yumeko excitedly shouted, shaking Mary hard.

"...uh, I wouldn't be so sure…" Mary lowered her eyes and head. She then shot an incensed glare at Midari's way, who sneakily snickered and walked off like a thief in the night.

"Excellent! I'm so thrilled you two will be participating!" Kirari golf clapped a few times.

"Jabami Yumeko and Saotome Mary are Team 7," Sayaka wrote their names down on a paper slip.

Ryōta cheered for his two friends. "Alright! Give it your best, Yumeko and Mary!"

Sharing Ryōta's enthusiasm, Yumeko hollered. "Yeah! Piece of cake!"

Using her thumb, Mary made a throat slit motion across her throat. Yeah, piece of cake. I wasn't ready for this!

"And who'll be the last team?" Kirari scanned through the other members.

Ryuji slapped both cheeks with his hands. "Me and…!"

"Me and Ryuji!" Mia called out.

"Hey, I was gonna say me and Miyako!"

Mia pointed to Ryuji and fearlessly held her ground to the taller young man. "Too bad. You'll be teaming with me. I'd ask Shiho but I don't think she plays Pocket Monsters."

"Then, why not let me team up with your bro or Shinya?"

"Because Nicola wants to see his big sis kick some ass in Pocket Monsters," Mia replied with a confident smirk.

"Go on, Ryuji," Miyako encouraged her boyfriend to team with Mia. "I'll be watching and rooting for you both."

"Well, in that case…" Ryuji blushed as he imagined Miyako alluringly winking a lovely pink heart at him. He felt his heart pounding as if Miyako was about to become a Phantom Thief and steal his heart away. "Anything for you, Miyako! Mia, let's kick all their collective asses!"

Mia chuckled cautiously. "...ok, you changed your tune fast. Just make sure and keep your head out of the clouds, Romeo."

"Mia Karnstein and Sakamoto Ryuji are in Team 8! We have all our participating pairs decided!" Sayaka formally announced as she dropped the slips into a black can.

"Ririka, if you will draw out the first two pairings on the bracket board," Kirari shook the can with the team pairing papers and handed the can over to her twin sister.

Shoving her hand inside the can, Ririka randomly drew a pairing slip and opened it. "We have Team 3 facing Team 8!"

"Whoa, dude! We're facing each other!" Ryuji realized he and Mia would be competing against Ren and Ann.

Ann gave a thumbs up to Ryuji and Mia. "Let the best team win… or not. Can't wait to kick your ass, Ryuji."

"Yeah?! Well, we're both fired up! Right, Mia?!" Ryuji asked and paused when he saw Mia facepalm.

"Save it for the match," Mia sighed.

"Let's give it our best, Ryuji," Ren addressed his friend.

"Hell yeah, man!" Ryuji said as he and Ren high-fived.

Ririka drew the next two pairings. "Next on the boards, we have Team 1 facing Team 6!"

Skyler and Hifumi turned toward Makoto and Yakumo. Skyler gave a taunting look that annoyed Makoto.

"Good. Now, I can take you down, Skyler," Makoto replied with a devious smirk.

"Don't drop the ball, Mako-kins," Skyler retorted, causing Makoto's eyes to flare up.

"Hifumi, please don't take it personally when I beat Skyler," the officer gritted and raised a left-handed clenched fist.

Hifumi quietly withdrew herself from Skyler and Makoto's competitive staredown.

"Yeah, you read my mind, Hifumi," Yakumo backed away.

Now, this is the kind of intensity I want to see! Kirari internally relished in the heated tension in this competitive environment, reminding her of the gambling world she still proudly indulged in.

"The next pairings to face: Team 5 vs. Team 7!" Ririka announced.

"We'll be competing, huh?" Louis faced Yumeko and Mary's direction.

"Let's do our best?" Haru shook Yumeko's hand. She concealed her intimidating glare that would scare the pants of anyone with a sane mind.

"Yeah, let's have fun," Yumeko put on a genuinely happy smile while masking her competitive ecstasy.

"Just don't go overboard and cost us the match," Mary sighed.

"And last but not least, Team 2 faces Team Team 4!" Ririka formally announced.

Jack pivoted over to Yusuke and Futaba. "Let's do our best but I hope I get to face Skyler."

Futaba chuckled. "We'll see when you're going against me and Inari's team dynamics!" She quickly and expressively struck a Neo Featherman pose. "Let's kick butt, Inari!"

Yusuke sighed. "You and your over-the-top theatrical poses as always, Futaba. Quite eloquent in your own fashion."

"The rest of you can sit in the audience and cheer on your friends. We do encourage you to liven up the tournament scene," Kirari smirked as she turned to the screen that showed the private Pokémon tournament brackets.

AnimeJapan 2019 Grand Pokémon Tournament

Amamiya-Takamaki Ren & Ann vs. Sakamoto Ryuji & Mia Karnstein

Skyler Jones & Togo Hifumi vs. Shinonome Yakumo & Niijima Makoto

Louis & Okumura Haru vs. Jabami Yumeko & Saotome Mary

Jack Rutherford & Eva Roux vs. Kitagawa Yusuke & Sakura Futaba

Kirari clapped once. "Great job! We have determined our match-ups! Next, each of you will select your Pocket Monsters!"

"Oh, me first!" Ryuji whipped out his Nintendo 3DS. "I already have my trusty Pocket Monsters selected!"

Mia shrugged as she picked up a spare Nintendo 3DS. "Looks like I'll have to pick out mine."

Ren had his Nintendo 3DS already out. "And I have my team."

Ann took out hers. "Me, too! Glad I brought mine in case I needed to sit down and rest."

Skyler had his Nintendo 3DS ready. Hifumi picked up a spare Nintendo 3DS from a table and thoroughly scanned through a large selection of Pokémon to choose from. The others likewise did the same. Each of the pairings' selected Pokémon appeared on the big screen.

Skyler's team comprised of Latios/Mega Latios (ラティオス), Bangiras (バンギラス) (Tyranitar), and Lugia (ルギア). Hifumi's team consisted Latias/Mega Latias (ラティアス), Ulgamoth (ウルガモス) (Volcarona), and Houou (ホウオウ) (Ho-Oh).

Ren picked Darkrai (ダークライ), Sazandora (サザンドラ) (Hydreigon), and Absol/Mega Absol (アブソル)). Ann selected Bursyamo/Mega Bursyamo (バシャーモ) (Blaziken/Mega Blaziken), Mahoxy (マフォクシー) (Delphox), and Gaogaen (ガオガエン) (Incineroar).

Louis chose Lizardon (リザードン) (Charizard), Gekkouga/Ash-Gekkouga (ゲッコウガ) (Greninja/Ash-Greninja), and Erureido/Mega Erureido (エルレイド) (Gallade/Mega Gallade)). Haru picked Sirnight/Mega Sirnight (サーナイト) (Gardevoir/Mega Gardevoir), Nymphia (ニンフィア) (Sylveon), and Shaymin (シェイミ).

Yakumo's team comprised of Hellgar/Mega Hellgar (ヘルガー) (Houndoom/Mega Houndoom), Fushigibana (フシギバナ) (Venusaur), and Waruvial (ワルビアル) (Krookodile)). Makoto's team consisted Lucario/Mega Lucario (ルカリオ), Gaburias (ガブリアス) (Garchomp), and Hassam (ハッサム) (Scizor).

Ryuji chose Goukazaru (ゴウカザル) (Infernape), Livolt/Mega Livolt (ライボルト) (Manectric/Mega Manectric), and Alolan Raichu (ライチュウ). Mia selected Spear/Mega Spear (スピアー) (Beedrill/Mega Beedrill), Kamex (カメックス) (Blastoise), and Glion (グライオン) (Gliscor).

Yusuke picked out Onigohri/Mega Onigohri (オニゴーリ) (Glalie/Mega Glalie), Doble (ドーブル) (Smeargle), and Suicune (スイクン). Futaba chose Metagross/Mega Metagross (メタグロス), Rotom (ロトム), and Jibacoil (ジバコイル) (Magnezone).

Yumeko selected Gangar/Mega Gangar (ゲンガー) (Gengar/Mega Gengar), Chandela (シャンデラ) (Chandelure), and Habunake (ハブネーク) (Seviper). Mary picked Garura/Mega Garura (ガルーラ) (Kangaskhan/Mega Kangaskhan), Amajo (アマージョ) (Tsareena), and Zangoose (ザングース).

Finally, Jack's team consisted Bohmander/Mega Bohmander (ボーマンダ) (Salamence/Mega Salamence), Groudon/Primal Groudon (グラードン), and Foodin (フーディン) (Alakazam). Eva's team comprised of Tyltalis/Mega Tyltalis (チルタリス) (Altaria/Mega Altaria), Airmd (エアームド) (Skarmory), and Kyogre/Primal Kyogre (カイオーガ).

"You've all made some excellent choices, but let's see how well your team dynamics play out," Kirari said. She then asked Ririka for the microphone and made her next announcement. "Our teams have selected their Pocket Monster teams! We will begin the tournament shortly! Guests, if we may ask you to take your seats."

Sitting near the former Hyakkaou Academy graduates, Morgana, Io, Sumire, Eugene, Akechi, Ryōta, Itsuki, Midari, Shinya, Nicola, Zenkichi, Akane, Maruki, Ichinose, Sophia, Shiho, Mishima, Emily, Reiko, Mi-Ling, Miyako, Rin, Coco, Davis, Anastasia, and Nadia observed and waited for the Pocket Monster tournament to commence.

"You can do it, Hifumi and Skyler!" Io cheered on her best friends.

"Take home the win for us, Yumeko and Mary!" Ryōta yelled out to them.

"You can do it, Ann and Ren-senpai!" Sumire cheered the couple on.

"We're behind you, Ren!" Sophia yelled.

"We have some great seats. Don't we, dad?" Akane said as she stood and took pictures of the tournament venue with her phone.

"I never thought we'd get VIP treatment here," Zenkichi remarked. "So, Pocket Monsters is still a thing?"

"It's always been a thing, dad," Akane chuckled.

"Geez, doesn't it take you back to that first generation, Maruki?" Ichinose reminded him.

Maruki folded his arms and nodded. "Yeah, back when there were just 50-something of them. I didn't think you ever played."

Ichinose winked. "There's a lot you don't know about me."

As he sat a distance from the others, Akechi keenly observed the tournament venue where Ren & Ann and Hifumi & Skyler were. Before making a statement, he sensed a strong presence several rows in front where Zenkichi sat.

"Wait, isn't that?" Akechi muttered, watching Zenkichi having a hearty conversation with Akane. Then, Akane got up to sit down with Shinya, Reiko, Nicola, and Li-Ming. Then, his eyes surveyed over toward Zenkichi, whose back was fully turned to his viewpoint. Feeling his hands quivering while clutching his Death Note prop, he shuddered. "Why the hell is he here? Has Sae gotten so desperate she called him?" Grimacing, his face sweated at the possibility of him crossing paths with Zenkichi. Unbeknownst to him, Zenkichi has connections with not just Sae but the Phantom Thieves. He even considered if Makoto knew about Zenkichi being in town.

As Akechi cautiously started walking out, Shiho quickly jumped out of her chair and cried out, startling him as he sank back into his chair.

"Go, Ann and Mia!" Shiho cheered, holding Morgana, who poked his head out to get a better view with the chairs obstructing his view.

"You two have got this in the bag! Kick all of their butts, Lady Ann!" Morgana hollered, which came out as cat meows to Shiho and a few others.

"Oh, Morgana? You wanna watch, too? Ok!" Shiho stood, holding Morgana up to give the cat a perfect view of the tournament venue. As soon as he saw Ren and Ann, Morgana's eyes lit with enthusiasm.

"Hey, are you ok with my sis playing in our place?" Nicola asked Shinya.

"Sure, I just want to see which Pocket Monsters she's gonna use. Smoke 'em all, Ren!" Shinya shouted.

"So, um, are you cheering for Nicola's sister or Ren?" Reiko queried.

"Uh… both? But, I can't cheer for my friend?"

Reiko shrugged. "No, I guess not."

"Shit, just let it all out of your system, kids," Midari encouraged them, putting her feet up on top of an empty seat in front of her.

"Yeah, don't mind us. We encourage everyone to cheer and get invested," Runa added.

"Just not too loudly where I'm sitting," muttered Kaede.

"Yay! Give us a good show, everyone!" Yumemi got up and cheered loudly behind Kaede, not only startling him but making him cover his ears.

"This should be interesting. I wonder how well Yumeko plays Pocket Monsters?" Rei deduced the Compulsive Gambler's ability to play a non-gambling game.

"I think we know her too well. She'll treat any game as if her pride depended on it," Itsuki elaborated.

Terano scoffed as Kirari walked on the tournament stage. "It's a shame Kirari isn't competing. I'd die to see Yumeko beat her on a platform such as this."

Giggling loudly, Yumi patted Terano's shoulder. "C'mon, this is just for fun, sis."

"This one will be hard to call," Mishima stated. "How many of them have played Pocket Monsters?"

"We're about to find out soon enough," Shiho replied.

Before the tournament could start, Kirari cleared her throat. "My apologies, but I've neglected to inform you we've received your fanart submission, Kitagawa Yusuke."

"The one I submitted?" Yusuke asked the knotted-haired woman.

"Correct. We not only received it, but we've asked and paid for graphic designers and animators to create a video depicting the battle illustrating Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura's Pocket Monster army."

Futaba's mouth nearly dropped. "What?! You did?! Man, you're so lucky, Inari!"

"I don't know what to say, but I'm flattered…"

"Why don't you be a judge for yourself?" Kirari smirked as the screen opened up to a CGI animation depicting Date Masamune's Mega Lizardon X vs. Sanada Yukimura's Mega Lizardon Y.

Everyone, from the tournament competitors and the audiences, witnessed Yusuke's illustration come to life on the big screen. Yusuke quietly witnessed other artists' visual adaptation of his original piece.

"This is so cute," Ann smiled as she and the others watched the battle animation play out as if it happened ages ago but with Pokémon involved.

"With this CGI animation, it's like I'm watching a video game. I'd rather be playing this," Louis commented.

"Well, what do you think, Inari?" Futaba sneakily grinned as she elbowed Yusuke's side.

"The depiction of my work is well made and they certainly put the time in recreating everything I drew," Yusuke critically analyzed the CGI animation video. "But personally speaking, I prefer my traditional art."

Next, following the fan video of Yusuke's art, a new promo appeared on the big screen. The promo showed the newest starters for Pokémon Sword & Shield: Sarunori (サルノリ) (Grookey), Hibanī (ヒバニー) (Scorbunny), and Messon (メッソン) (Sobble).

"Wow, that's right. We got a grass monkey, a fire bunny, and an aquatic lizard. I sure wasn't expecting those," remarked Nicola.

"Isn't Hibanī cute?!" Reiko exclaimed.

"I love bunnies, so of course I'm going to go with the fire rabbit!" Akane said.

"I'm kinda partial to Messon," Mi-Ling added.

"I'm so gonna rock with Sarunori! I'm fired up!" Shinya boasted about his choice of starter.

Overhearing the kids chatting about the latest Pokémon, Davis muttered. "Feh, in my day, it was all about Fushigidane, Hitokage, and Zenigame."

Rin overheard and balked at the big man. "You actually played Pocket Monsters? YOU?!"

Davis coughed. "...yeah, so what? I mean, I had a childhood. I wasn't always a boring old man."

Coco chortled, leaning over next to Davis with her elbow pressed against his. "Reminiscing those old days?"

"Leave me alone."

Ichinose chuckled. "See? Looks like we aren't the only ones who reminisce about the Gen 1 time, Maruki."

"Do you still play Pocket Monsters?"

"Yep, I usually play with Sophia. She has all of the Pocket Monsters data and strategies downloaded into her program."

Sophia nodded. "And I've already downloaded data on the three new starters for Sword & Shield."

Ichinose snapped her fingers. "Excellent! Now, we'll learn more about their stats and how we can utilize them when we play."

Maruki chuckled. "Well, this tournament should be great."

"Looks like we should hit up the stores when Sword & Shield are out," Eugene suggested to Sumire.

"Yes, and you'll come with us, too. Right, Rin?" The red-haired gymnast asked Rin.

"Sure, if you don't think I'm getting in the way?"

Sumire nodded dismissively. "Don't be silly. You're my friend, Rin. We enjoy your company."

"Gee, thanks," Rin replied as her cheeks blushed from Sumire's pure kindness.

Morgana watched Pikachu on the big screen and grumbled. "...why do they think I sound just like that dumb yellow electric rat? At least, I can actually talk."

Shiho heard Morgana meowing again. "Oh, what is it, Morgana? Hungry? Sorry, I'm fresh out of seaweed chips. All I have are raw sunflower seeds."

Yuck! Morgana internally conveyed his disgust for the offering.

"How was that for some pre-show entertainment? Ok, it's well past 8:00 PM. Why don't we get the tournament started? Since, that is what we're here for," Kirari announced in her microphone. "Can we get the first two teams to come to the circle?"

Ren & Ann and Ryuji & Mia stepped forward inside the battle circle. The pairings' respective Pokémon appeared on the big screen.

Hifumi turned to Skyler. "Have you noticed?"

Skyler queried. "What? Is there something with our Pocket Monster teams?"

"No, it's not that, but you, me, and Ren have Kaijū-themed Pocket Monsters."

"You're right. I have a Bangiras. You have a Ulgamoth. Ren has a Sazandora. They're like Godzilla, Mothra, and Ghidorah."

Hifumi smiled. "Exactly. Who would've thought?"

"Who knows? Maybe it means we'll be pitted against Ren and Ann if they can win this match."

As they waited for Sayaka to start their match, Ren and Ann prepared themselves for Ryuji and Mia.

"It's been a while since I played Pocket Monsters. Hey, want to know something?" Ann glanced over to her husband.

"What is it?"

"I had an Achamo (アチャモ) (Torchic) back during Omega Ruby. Luckily for me, it was a girl and I named her Sakura Kyoko."

"Oh."

"What do you mean 'oh'? I wanted to tell you what my starter was."

"And you named her after a character from an anime show?"

"Yeah, the redhead from Madoka Magica. Anyway, I'm using her again and she's fully evolved into Bursyamo. Welcome back, Sakura Kyoko! Let's kick some butt!"

Ren smirked. "Well, guess you're not the only one to name their trusted Pocket Monster. I've given my Sazandora the name Zmey Ghidrah."

"Zmey Ghidrah?" Ann blinked in confusion. "That's a weird name."

"Ghidrah is for Ghidorah because it has three heads and is a dragon."

"And the 'Zmey' part?"

Ren chuckled. "I was a weird and creative kid then."

Ann sighed. "Somehow, I can believe that."

"Yo! Are we gonna get this started?!" Ryuji called for Sayaka.

"Oh, mind your manners, Ryuji. This gives us time to strategize," Mia scoffed.

Sayaka stepped inside the ring. "My apologies. Ok, are both teams ready?"

"We were born ready!" Ryuji hollered.

"Bring it on!" Ann responded with an energetic vibe.

"Then, let the first match begin!" Sayaka officially decreed the tournament's start.

As Ririka sounded the buzzer, Ren, Ann, Ryuji, and Mia picked their first Pokémon to fight with. Ren and Ann brought out Sazandora and Bursyamo.

"Let's ravage them, Zmey Ghidrah!"

"Get ready, Sakura Kyoko!" The blonde called to her Bursyamo.

Ryuji and Mia used Goukazaru and Kamex to start the Pokémon battle.

"Yo, SaruKing and I are fired up!" Ryuji boasted.

"Let's water them down, Indra Turtle!" Mia called out her Kamex's nickname.

Hearing this, Skyler snickered. "Guess we're not the only ones using Kaijū-themed motifs and names."

Hifumi added with a genuine smile. "I suppose not."

The first Pokémon match was very competitive. Ren's Sazandora battle against Ryuji's Goukazaru and Mia's Kamex was like King Ghidorah fighting King Kong and Gamera. Ann's Bursyamo provided backup for Sazandora. The combatant's other Pokémon came into play, including Darkrai, Gaogaen, Livolt, and Spear. At one point, Ann's Bursyamo mega evolved into Mega Bursyamo and brought down Ryuji's Mega Livolt. The match ended when Ren's Sazandora took down Mia's Mega Spear.

"Ren and Ann are the first to advance!" Sayaka announced.

Ryuji high-fived Ren. "Kickass match, dude! You totally kicked my butt out there."

Ann pumped a fist into the air. "Yeah! I knew to count on you, Sakura Kyoko!"

Mia shrugged. "Hey, our teamwork wasn't half-bad for a random pairing, Ryuji."

Kirari addressed Ren and Ann. "You two will advance and face the winner between Skyler & Hifumi and Yakumo & Makoto's match, which will happen right now."

With that, the second match pairings entered the battle circle. Skyler and Hifumi stood opposite Yakumo and Makoto.

"You can do it, Mako-chan!" Haru cheered on her lover.

"If she can keep a cool head with Skyler in there," Louis chuckled.

Makoto fiercely glared at Skyler.

"Remember this is just for fun, Makokins," Skyler coolly smirked at the officer's way, trying to get under her skin.

However, Makoto shrugged off his smarmy collectiveness with self-confidence. "Yeah, I know, but don't cry to me when I kick your butt." She then turned to Hifumi. "Don't take this personally, Hifumi."

"No, this is all for fun. Let the best team win," Hifumi wore a cool smile that matched Skyler's.

"Since we're giving our Pocket Monsters nicknames, I've given my Bangiras the name Kriegsherr, which could translate to 'warlord' in German," Skyler informed Hifumi.

"Such a nice name. As for me, I've called my female Ulgamoth, Sakuya-hime."

"That's a beautiful name, Hifumi."

"Thank you, Skyler. I chose Sakuya-hime because she is the goddess of Mt. Fuji and all volcanoes in Japanese mythology. There have been Shinto shrines built on Mt. Fuji for Sakuya-hime called Sengen Shrines. Since Volcarona's name is taken from the word volcano, I thought Sakuya-hime would be an appropriate name."

Hearing this, Skyler smiled approvingly. "Well, I like it either way. Let's make sure Sakuya-hime's volcanic power will win us this game."

"You and me both, Skyler," Hifumi then turned and faced their opposition. Her cool demeanor was replaced with a fierce and competitive game face. "Skyler, I hope you've brought your A-game because I don't intend to lose! My Shogi strategies are next to none! Fight with me and I promise my Shogi skills will win us this tournament!"

Skyler was a bit taken aback by his girlfriend's gamer spirit surface. "Yeah, sure I'm with you." He internally thought. Oh boy, when Hifumi gets like this, there's no stopping her.

On the opposite side, Makoto and Yakumo stared in Hifumi's direction, both of them responding with awkward and confused expressions.

"S-she's getting into this, isn't she?" Yakumo muttered.

"Hifumi really thinks her Shogi skills can be applied into Pocket Monsters?" Makoto was bewildered by Hifumi's eccentric behavior during her competitive mood. She's exhibiting a great example of a Chūnibyō if I've ever seen one! With a calm smile adorning her face, Makoto addressed her opponents. "Well, since we're giving out names for our Pocket Monsters, you should know my Lucario is named Arlon, which I named after Sir Arlon from that Lucario movie. By the way, some useless trivia but I have a Goronda (ゴロンダ) (Pangoro) named Buchimaru."

"Really?" Skyler blinked in bewilderment.

"Yeah?! I mean, I'm a big Buchimaru fan! Why wouldn't I name my Pocket Monster panda after my favorite mascot character?!"

Hifumi chuckled. "I think that's cute."

"See? Someone gets it," Makoto smiled while posturing proudly.

"I guess if you think so, Mako-kins," Skyler sardonically replied.

"That's nothing! My Gardevoir is named Morrigan!" Haru called out outside of the competitor's circle, causing Makoto to lower her head.

"That's even cuter name," Hifumi chuckled.

"Man, my Fushigibana doesn't have a cute name, but I did call him Soma Frogger," Yakumo stated about the Pocket Monster nickname conversation.

"Let the second match begin!" Sayaka declared as the buzzer went off.

Skyler and Hifumi picked Bangiras and Ulgamoth to start. Makoto and Yakumo brought out Lucario and Hellgar. This match played out much more competitively. Unlike the first match that involved a lot of power-based moves, there was more strategy applied between Skyler, Hifumi, and Makoto. Yakumo slightly fell behind but managed to catch up. Makoto's Lucario lunged at Skyler's Bangiras.

"Give his giant dinosaur the fists of justice, Arlon!" Makoto beckoned her Lucario into the field.

As Lucario went to pummel Bangiras, Hifumi's Ulgamoth unleashed a cloak of flames that forced Lucario to dodge and withdraw.

"Thanks, Hifumi," Skyler nodded to her.

"We're not out of this match yet, Skyler! We are the king and queen of our kingdom!"

"Yeah, we sure are…"

Hifumi's passionate eyes flared up. "Our monsters are our pieces, Skyler. We must not let these two have the satisfaction of beating us. However…" She veered over to Skyler with a fiery expression. "If we are to fall, we'll do so gracefully!"

The Revenant couldn't only see, but also sensed the Shogi player's fighting spirit engulf her. Knowing how deeply invested she can get into playing a game, he vowed to not let Hifumi down.

Skyler withdrew Bangiras and summoned Lugia. Lugia then attacked Makoto's Lucario. Flying into the air, Lugia unleashed a psychic attack that stunned Lucario. Yakumo's Hellgar tried coming to Lucario's defense, but Hifumi's fire moth intervened and prevented Hellgar's advance. Makoto switched out Lucario with Gaburias. At one point, after Hellgar mega evolved into Mega Hellgar, the dark hound and Gaburias took down Ulgamoth.

"No, Sakuya-hime!" Hifumi called out.

"You've done it now, Yakumo and Mako-kins!" Skyler heatedly spat out at the two.

Makoto scoffed. "Yeah? We're taking down your giant lizard next, Skyler Jones!" She dropped a thumbs down, prematurely signaling his and Hifumi's imminent defeats.

Haru became deeply invested and favored her lover to win her match. Witnessing Makoto's competitive spirit, she became invigorated herself to give it her all in her match.

The second match continued and invoked various emotional responses between the four players. Hifumi's fiery gaming spirit and strategies allowed her and Skyler to take down two of Yakumo and Makoto's Pokémon. Makoto quickly responded with ferocity as her trusted Mega Lucario beat Skyler's Latios.

In the final moments of the match, Yakumo's Fushigibana fell. Yakumo was eliminated, leaving Makoto to contend with Skyler and Hifumi. Makoto had Mega Lucario. Skyler's only monster was Bangiras. Hifumi was left with Houou.

Makoto noted Bangiras being worn out and Hifumi's Houou remaining fresh.

"Ok, Arlon, we can end this right now!" She pointed to Houou. "Attack her Houou!" She watched Mega Lucario charge at Houou. Yes, I attack Hifumi's monster and she can't defend Skyler's Bangiras. And his monster is worn out to defend. Sorry, you had to be the one way for me to beat Skyler, Hifumi.

Hifumi smirked. "You forgot one thing, Makoto. My Houou is resistant to your Arlon's melee fighting blows and steel attacks."

Makoto realized this. Crap, I forgot… this is what I get for falling out of the game! "Arlon, stop! Turn your attack on Skyler's…!"

As Mega Lucario unleashed an attack on Bangiras, Bangiras barely evaded, allowing Houou to swoop in and blast Mega Lucario. Overwhelmed by her opponents' teamwork, Makoto was beaten.

"Skyler and Hifumi are your winners! They'll advance to the semi-finals!" Sayaka announced.

As they approached their opponents, Skyler and Hifumi complimented Yakumo and Makoto's efforts.

"It was a fine match, but it was ours to win," Hifumi addressed Yakumo.

"Yeah, you and Skyler are the team to beat. Soma Frogger didn't stand a chance," replied Yakumo.

Skyler walked up to Makoto and shook her hand.

"You're handling this better than I thought, Mako-kins."

Makoto shrugged and calmly smirked. "What's there to complain about? You know I almost had you, but your queen defended you. I know I can't compete with her. But, just remember she's just a queen. I'm the 'Queen'."

Skyler rolled his eyes. "Yeah, ok, but yeah you almost had me. If Houou weren't there, you would've beaten us."

"Glad we can agree. Wow, how often do we agree on anything?"

"Just every once in a while."

The officer then turned and bowed to Hifumi. "And thank you for an excellent match."

Hifumi returned a bow. "It was an honor. Perhaps a duel between a goddess and a queen?"

Makoto nodded. "I'd love that."

"That was a spectacular show, my friends! Wasn't that just a splendid show of competitive vigor and good sportsmanship?!" Kirari addressed the private audience in their seats and the public watching from screens. "But, the night is still young. We have two more quarter-final matches to go."

Sayaka called forth the next pairings. "Our next match will be Louis and Haru against Yumeko and Mary!"

Louis & Haru and Yumeko & Mary entered the circle. Having watched the first two matches play out, Yumeko's gambling spirit flared, which could spell doom for her team or the opposite team.

"Ready to get our gamble on, Mary?" Yumeko queried her partner.

"Just don't screw this up for us."

"Well, this should be quite interesting," Kirari meticulously eyed Yumeko and Mary. "What will you do in this gaming environment, Jabami-san?"

8:50 PM (JST)

The third match was just as competitive as the second one. Strategies were utilized by both teams. While not experienced in Pokémon, Yumeko and Mary made the best with what they had. Yumeko played with a clear mind. Mary assisted Yumeko and used her monsters to defend Yumeko's team. Gangar became Yumeko's favorite to play and even gave him the nickname 'Mr. Grin'. However, the gamblers fell short and lost to Louis and Haru. The match was decided when Louis's Lizardon used a Fire Blast on Yumeko's Gangar.

"Nice work, Agni Bahamut! The match is ours!" Louis called out to Lizardon's name.

Even though the gamblers lost, Kirari was still invested in Yumeko and Mary's willingness to adapt to a new gaming environment.

The fourth match, while not as competitive, was still a fun and entertaining match. Jack initially didn't take Yusuke and Futaba seriously, believing he and Eva would win quickly and decisively. However, Futaba and Yusuke applied their Pokémon skills; the former had to refresh the latter on some of the game strategies. Once the Thieves started to take down a monster or two from their opposition, that forced Jack to get serious. In the end, Jack and Eva rebounded and defeated the Phantom Thief duo. The match was decided when Jack's Bohmander crushed Yusuke's Doble.

After his and Eva's victory, Jack pointed and smiled at Skyler and Hifumi's way.

9:20 PM (JST)

"Now, we're down to our semi-finalists. And according to this board, Ren and Ann will face Skyler and Hifumi next. After that, Jack and Eva compete against Louis and Haru. The competition is truly riveting!" Kirari then turned toward a camera. "Hasn't it been a truly spectacular show, con-goers?!"

Sayaka beckoned Ren & Ann and Skyler & Hifumi to enter the ring. The two pairings did so and faced each other.

"Ren, whoever wins, remember we're still tight," Skyler stated.

"Yeah."

Ann winked at Hifumi. "Let's do our best, Hifumi."

Hifumi nodded. "Of course."

"Both teams are ready! Let the first semi-final match begin!" Sayaka signaled for the buzzer to sound off.

The match started with Ren sending Darkrai. Skyler summoned Lugia to attack Darkrai. The two monsters went back and forth, throwing dark and psychic blasts toward one another. Ann sent Mega Bursyamo to attack Hifumi's Houou. The fire Pokémon struck each other with fiery attacks.

"You can do it, Sakura Kyoko!" Ann yelled out to her Mega Bursyamo.

"Keep it up, Houou!" Hifumi shouted.

Mega Bursyamo jumped up and kicked Houou away. This dealt a devastating blow that knocked Houou around. As Mega Bursyamo went for a finishing blow, Houou flapped both wings and unleashed a fire wave that knocked Mega Bursyamo down.

"Houou, withdraw!" Hifumi commanded and replaced her firebird with Ulgamoth. "Let's rebound from this, Sakuya-hime!"

Ulgamoth flew in and attacked Mega Bursyamo. Ann called to her Pokémon to dodge, which it did. Mega Bursyamo kept her distance from the fire moth.

Meanwhile, Ren's Darkrai was completely outmaneuvering and neutralized all of Lugia's psychic attacks. Realizing Ren's dark Pokémon was immune to Lugia's attacks, Skyler withdrew Lugia and replaced him with Bangiras.

"Get him, Kriegsherr!" Skyler yelled out as Bangiras charged at Darkrai.

"Crush him, Darkrai!" Ren called out.

As the two Pokémon collided, Darkrai threw a darkness attack. Bangiras rushed headfirst through the attack and took little damage. Darkrai tried flying around the dinosaur-like beast, but Bangiras caught and pummeled Darkrai with physical blows. Ultimately, Darkrai fell to Bangiras.

At the same time, Ulgamoth took down Mega Bursyamo.

Skyler and Hifumi turned to each other. Both had fiery and passionate looks that Ren and Ann couldn't hope to match.

"Hey, um, Ren. I think we might be in trouble…" Ann gulped, nervously looking them down.

"Well, I'm not about to give up," Ren took out his next Pokémon: Absol.

"Right, me either!" Ann brought out Mahoxy.

The match progressed with exciting gameplay and strategies utilized. Ann found herself outmatched by Hifumi's wit and strategic plays. Ren and Skyler's match-up was fairly close as neither player was willing to fall to the other. When Ren's Absol became Mega Absol, it dealt blows to Bangiras. Skyler replaced Bangiras with Latios.

"Ok, you're up, Chassés!" Skyler referred to Latios by his nickname.

Latios flew in and unleashed psychic attacks on Mega Absol, who dodged and fired a darkness blast. Latios dodged and quickly dove in, slamming into and tackling Mega Absol down. Mega Absol bounced back and jumped up, throwing a darkness blast. Latios barely swerved out of the way. Mega Absol rolled up into mid-air and headbutted Latios.

"Hang on, Chassés!" Skyler called out to his Latios.

As the match continued, Latios rebounded against Mega Absol and mega evolved into Mega Latios.

The ladies' Pokémon battle reached its conclusion. Hifumi's Latias took down Ann's Gaogaen, decisively eliminating the latter from the match. However, Ann's efforts weren't in vain as her Gaogaen did take down Houou.

Hifumi watched Skyler struggle with Ren.

"Hang in there, Skyler!" Hifumi called out. "Amberwind, go and assist Chassés!" She referred to Latias's nickname.

Latias assisted Mega Latios against Ren's remaining monsters: Mega Absol and Sazandora. Latias and Mega Latios double-teamed to take out Mega Absol. Sazandora came in to try and take down the two psychic legendaries. Ren resorted to Sazandora's powerful Dragon Rush and Dragon Pulse to take down Mega Latios. Skyler brought back Bangiras out to fight. Hifumi replaced Latias with Ulgamoth.

"Like straight out of a Godzilla movie. A three-headed dragon, the giant dinosaur, and the giant moth." Ren noted his Sazandora, Bangiras, and Ulgamoth on the field.

"It's all on you, Kriegsherr!" Skyler shouted.

"You have little power, Sakuya-hime, but let's make the best of what we can," Hifumi encouraged her moth.

Ren fiercely gritted. "Take them down, Zmey Ghidrah!"

The three-way Pokémon went as expected. Bangiras and Sazandora physically clashed like the rival Kaijū they represented. Ulgamoth kept her distance and stayed in the air. When Bangiras tackled Sazandora back, the three-headed dragon unleashed Dragon Pulse. Bangiras dodged and struck back with a Rock Slide. After dazing Sazandora, Ulgamoth flew over and scattered fiery blasts from her wings. Sazandora rebounded and launched into the air to attack Ulgamoth. Sazandora struck down Ulgamoth, eliminating the fire moth. Latias returned to play and assisted Bangiras.

Toward the end of the match, Bangiras turned the tide of the battle against Sazandora. The dinosaur decisively took down the three-headed dragon with Stone Edge.

"Skyler and Hifumi have won and will compete in the finals!" Sayaka announced.

The pairings went up to congratulate the other. Ren and Skyler gave firm handshakes.

"That was an excellent match, Ren. That could've gone either way."

"Yeah, that was a battle among monsters, wasn't it?" Ren smiled.

"We'll be cheering for you two in the finals," Ann said to Hifumi.

"Thank you."

"You sure taught me a lesson, Hifumi. It was fun dueling you!" Ann said.

"Likewise, Ann."

"It's time for our next semi-final match! Jack and Eva against Louis and Haru!" Sayaka called for the two semi-final pairings to enter the circle.

9:40 PM (JST)

The second semi-final turned out decently. Jack and Louis intensely dueled each other. In contrast to her match-up with Futaba, Eva and Haru's exchange was much more polite. Louis and Haru started with Gekkouga and Sirnight. Jack and Eva started with Groudon and Airmd. The match went back and forth. Louis tried utilizing strategies with his Pokémon to take down Jack's powerful monsters. However, Jack's Pokémon choices proved too strong for Louis. Haru found herself in big trouble when Tyltalis mega evolved into Mega Tyltalis. Mega Tyltalis took out Haru's Nymphia and Shaymin. When Mega Tyltalis wore itself out, Haru brought back Sirnight to take out Eva's monster.

The end of the match came when Jack's Bohmander took out Louis's Lizardon and Haru's Sirnight. After vanquishing their opponents, Jack and Eva had their sights set on their final opponents, Skyler and Hifumi.

10:00 PM (JST)

Kirari clapped. "What a most exciting tournament we've had. All of you, win or lose, have played valiantly and showed me you're all great players. However, all good competitions must come to an end. We come down to our finalists." She veered toward Jack and Eva. "Jack Rutherford and Eva Roux!" She then pivoted to Skyler and Hifumi. "And Skyler Jones and Togo Hifumi! Give us a finale for us to remember."

Skyler raised a hand. "Are there no prizes for the winners?"

"Sadly, no. We couldn't find any worthy prizes. Otherwise, we would've said so long ago," Ririka replied.

"In my eyes, everyone's a winner here," Kirari smirked. "Now, give us a good show, you four."

"Please enter the circle," Sayaka beckoned the pair into the battle circle.

Skyler and Hifumi stood opposite Jack and Eva. Jack and Skyler exchanged intense glares.

"We're taking home something greater than some silly carnival prize: warrior pride." Jack coolly smirked.

Eva turned to him and smiled. "Remember, this is just for fun, Jack."

Skyler shook his head. "Yeah, Jack. This is just fun and games but I'm glad it's us in the finals."

Hifumi pointed to Jack and Eva. "Indeed, and may the best team win. However, that said, you're facing the king and queen now!" She turned to the audience and sighted Shinya with his red cap. "Shinya, your hat!"

Hearing Hifumi, Shinya looked confused. He got up from his chair. Hifumi walked over and asked for his hat. Shinya wasn't sure what to say, but Reiko and Nicola encouraged him to give her his hat.

"Here. For luck!" Shinya handed his 'GET SMOKED' hat to her.

With her eyes burning with passion, Hifumi put on the red hat and turned it sideways, which still visibly showed the 'GET SMOKED' in yellow font. She then put on a game face that everyone was taken aback by.

"Skyler, I'm ready to win!" Hifumi called out as she stepped inside the circle. She noticed Skyler giving her an awkward look. "...what? Is something wrong?"

"Uh… no! I'd say that hat looks great on you!"

She tipped the red hat and warmly smiled. "Why thank you."

Jack chuckled. "Hifumi can be quite eccentric when she wants to be."

Hifumi shot an intense and piercing glare at Jack. "That's just me getting into my game mode." She then psyched him out by throwing her hand across her face and doing the JoJo pose, which took all her friends and colleagues by surprise.

Eva sighed. "Jack, let's just get on with this match."

Jack blinked and shook his head. "Ok, ok, let's get serious."

"Are you ready? Let the final match begin!" Sayaka called out.

As the buzzer sounded, Skyler and Hifumi summoned their Pokémon: Lugia and Houou. Jack and Eva brought out their Pokémon: Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. Lugia flew at Primal Groudon. Lugia unleashed a Psyshock, but Primal Groudon dodged and shot fire blasts. Lugia swerved away from Primal Groudon's blasts.

Houou flew around Primal Kyogre and unleashed Sacred Fire. Primal Kyogre countered with a Hydro Pump, nullifying the legendary bird's flames. Primal Kyogre mounted another offense and blasted Houou with an Origin Pulse.

"Heh, yes. My water monster beats your fire one," Eva smirked as Primal Kyogre dealt a critical blow to Houou.

"Houou, withdraw!" Hifumi recalled her firebird and summoned Ulgamoth. "You're up, Sakuya-hime!"

Eva withdrew Primal Kyogre and brought out her female Airmd. "I see you've given your monster a nickname. Well, say hello to Aranea!"

Hifumi and Eva sent their Pokémon into battle. Airmd and Ulgamoth engaged in a quick aerial battle. Ulgamoth launched fire blasts. Airmd evaded Ulgamoth's attacks and went for an Air Slash. Ulgamoth barely dodged.

Meanwhile, Lugia took a critical blow from Primal Groudon. Skyler quickly withdrew Lugia and replaced it with Bangiras.

"Humph, withdrawing your monster for another? You're not giving up already?" Jack questioned him.

"Not even. This match hasn't been decided yet. Besides, your monster could use some rest."

"Very observant," Jack withdrew Primal Groudon. He then brought out Foodin. "Let's see how your dinosaur handles my psychic!"

Foodin waved its spoons around and attempted Focus Blast on Bangiras. Bangiras countered with a Rock Slide. This turned the tide of the match, resulting in Bangiras completely knocking the psychic out of the match.

"Hey, did you forget Bangiras is also a dark type and psychics can't beat them?!" Skyler chastised Jack.

"Yeah, I didn't forget," Jack gritted as he made a mental note. Right, you did forget, Jack. Don't do that again. He mentally chided himself over his folly.

Eva was flabbergasted that her partner lost a monster already. "Oh no, Jack!"

"I'd pay attention to the battle at hand!" Hifumi called out as Bangiras fired Dark Pulse at Airmd.

Bangiras not only took out Foodin, but removed Airmd with its dark-based attacks.

"Yes, that's more of their monsters removed!" Hifumi pointed out.

"But, they each have two monsters. Let's not prematurely celebrate yet, Hifumi."

Jack and Eva brought back Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre to the battlefield. Eva sent Primal Kyogre to attack Bangiras and blasted the dinosaur with an Origin Pulse. Primal Groudon followed up with Precipice Blades to take down Skyler's Bangiras. Ulgamoth did try to defend Bangiras, but Primal Kyogre intercepted the fire moth.

"Sorry, Kriegsherr. At least you took down two of theirs," Skyler muttered proudly for his trusted dinosaur. He brought back Lugia out to play. "Hifumi, have Ulgamoth keep Primal Kyogre at bay!"

"Yes, of course! Fire can't beat water, but Sakuya-hime can distract her monster!" Hifumi sent Ulgamoth in a bold effort to keep Primal Kyogre away.

This left Lugia to launch an attack on Primal Groudon. Lugia struck Primal Groudon with Sky Drop and knocked it out of the match.

"That's two of your monsters I've taken out, Jack! That just leaves you with one!" Skyler exclaimed.

"But, I took out one of yours and I'll take out another one of yours! This match is still young!"

Just then, Hifumi witnessed her Ulgamoth fall to Primal Kyogre's water attack.

"Sorry, Skyler, but Sakuya-hime couldn't hold her monster too long," the Shogi woman regrettably apologized.

"It's fine. We still both have two monsters each. Jack has just one and Eva has two of hers. I'd say we should focus on eliminating Jack, but it's not always a good idea to underestimate a desperate player."

Hifumi nodded. "Yes, I know. He's going to bring out his ace."

Jack turned to Eva. "It's time I bring out my trusted dragon to play. You know which one."

Eva frowned. "Yeah, it's that time."

With that, Jack brought out his third and only Pokémon: Bohmander. "Let's end this match, Skywalker! Take no prisoners!"

"Skywalker?" Skyler muttered.

"They're dragons not known to be great fliers, but can walk in the sky and the clouds. Hence, the name Skywalker."

"Here I thought that was a Star Wars reference," remarked the Revenant.

"Really cute, Skyler. Skywalker's going to be the difference maker!" Jack declared. He then pointed to Lugia. "Why don't I show you? I'll start by removing your worn-out Lugia from the battlefield!"

Bohmander flew at Lugia and took it out with Dragon Pulse.

"Now, we're two for two, Skyler!"

"So, we're both down to one monster each." Skyler quickly summoned Latios into play.

"If you're bringing out Chassés, it's time for Amberwind to come out," Hifumi said, bringing out her Latias. "And when these siblings are united, they can't be bested!"

"And when combined, we call them Amberwind Chassés," Skyler stated.

Eva scoffed. "Jack, let's finish them."

Jack replied. "Right, but you should bring your other monster out."

"Tyltalis, come forth!" Eva replaced Primal Kyogre with Tyltalis.

The four contestants witnessed their dragons fly into the air and captivate the audiences with their aerial maneuvers. Latios went into battle with Bohmander. Latias took on Tyltalis. Bohmander hit Latios with a Fly attack. Latios retaliated with a Psywave, which damaged Bohmander. Latias was struck by a Sky Attack from Tyltalis. As Tyltalis went for another flying attack, Latias dodged the dragon's assault. Latias blasted Tyltalis with a Mist Ball.

The dragon battle went back and forth. The contestants took turns trying to exploit their monster's weaknesses. The monsters either had to dodge or maneuver through their opponents' attacks.

When the match reached its midpoint, the four monsters pushed each other's limits and powered up into their Mega Evolution forms. Bohmander became Mega Bohmander. Tyltalis became Mega Tyltalis. Latios became Mega Latios. Latias became Mega Latias.

"This is it, Skyler! Our monsters have reached their critical points! One of us is coming out on top!" Jack declared this to be the turning point of the final match.

"Ready to give this your all, Hifumi?"

"If we fall, we'll do so with grace!" The Shogi woman boldly decreed.

Mega Bohmander and Mega Latios both flew high into the air. They flew around one another. Mega Bohmander launched a Draco Meteor at Mega Latios, but Mega Latios fired Dragon Pulse to cancel out the Draco Meteor. The dragons then unleashed flying attacks and dealt damage to each other.

Mega Latias and Mega Tyltalis flew around, dodging each other's attacks. At one point, Mega Latias hit Mega Tyltalis with a Psyshock, dealing a critical blow to Eva's Pokémon. Mega Tyltalis nearly collapsed after being taken down by Mega Latias.

Mega Bohmander hastily flew at Mega Latios and went for a dragon attack. Mega Latios had the same idea as well. Skyler and Jack both called out for the finishing blows. Mega Bohmander struck with Dragon Claw. Mega Latios unleashed Outrage. As the two dragons slid past the other, both fell in defeat. Skyler and Jack eliminated each other, leaving their ladies to finish the match.

"Take it, Hifumi!" Skyler called out to her.

"Yes, game, set…!" Hifumi watched as Eva brought back Primal Kyogre.

Mega Latias unleashed Zen Headbutt to take Eva's Pokémon out. Hifumi was the last contestant standing with only two Pokémon left.

"And match!" The Shogi woman proudly declared, turning Shinya's cap backward and flashing a V with her fingers.

"Yes, and not only has the match been decided, but the tournament is over!" Sayaka shouted. "Your winners are Skyler Jones and Togo Hifumi!"

Hifumi ran over and hugged Skyler. While they celebrated, Jack and Eva approached the winners.

"Hey, that was a good and competitive game, you two," Jack extended his hand to Hifumi and Skyler. After shaking their hands, Eva walked up to Hifumi and patted her shoulder.

"I should've realized I didn't stand a chance against you by myself, Hifumi," Eva said.

"Don't say that. You played well and hung in without Jack. Isn't just us having fun and entertaining this crowd enough?" Hifumi asked the Revenant, who nodded in agreement.

"Yes, you're right, Hifumi."

"Hifumi, you're a serious hardcore Pocket Monster master," Jack remarked as he and Skyler raised Hifumi's arms high as their friends cheered them on.

After Jack and Eva congratulated them, Hifumi and Skyler celebrated their victory. The Phantom Thieves, the Vein Remnants, and Spiritual Gamblers (minus Terano, Yumi, Rei, Yuriko, Kaede, Runa, and Yumemi) headed over to congratulate the tournament winners.

Io ran up to hug Skyler and Hifumi. She hugged them tight and lifted both into the air.

"Yay! You won! I knew you would!" Io gleefully cheered.

"Way to go, you two!" Ann cheered them on.

"Damn, that was close!" Ryuji said.

"I thought for sure Jack would beat you with that dragon!" Futaba said.

"Excellent gameplay, you two," Ren congratulated Hifumi and Skyler.

"Looks like my hat turned out good luck after all!" Shinya yelled out.

"Yes, and thank you," Hifumi took off the red hat and handed it to the teen.

"Thanks, guys, but it was just a game," Skyler said.

"Yeah, we never meant to take it seriously, but a little heated competition doesn't hurt, right?" Jack added, giving Skyler a light slap to his back.

"Good game, Skyler," Ren complimented him.

"Yeah, that was fun. We should play again in our free time," Ann smiled, shaking Hifumi's hand.

"Yes, and not in a crowded venue like this," Hifumi concurred.

"Hey, Mako-kins!" Skyler called out to Makoto, who scoffed and rolled her eyes when hearing Skyler's nickname for her.

Before attempting a sardonic comeback, Haru patted her left shoulder.

"Don't take him seriously, Mako-chan," she murmured with a radiant smile, causing Makoto to blush.

"Yeah, good game," Makoto turned and addressed Skyler with a pleasant smile, which made Skyler uncomfortable.

As he witnessed this exchange, Louis laughed. "See? You don't always have to be super serious all the time, Mako-chan."

"Right," she maintained a big smile.

"Keep smiling, Mako-kins. It makes you cuter," Skyler playfully remarked.

"Stupid," the lady officer scoffed.

"Well said, Skyler," Louis chuckled.

"Despite our loss, we made a pretty decent team, Makoto," Yakumo gave her props.

"Thanks, I guess."

Observing Ren and Skyler's interactions with their friends, Kirari's smile curved outward as she became intrigued with their storied history. "These people are quite intriguing. More so than I expected them to be. Yumeko, you sure hang around an interesting crowd these days, especially those two in particular." As she meticulously eyed Hifumi and Skyler, she licked her blue lips and chortled. "I'd like to play with you all some more."

Ririka approached Kirari. "What should we do?"

"Have no fear, sister. We've acquired all the data we need for The Consortium."

As the Thieves, Vein Remnants, and Gamblers continued their celebration with Skyler and Hifumi, Kirari approached them and clapped her hands.

"I'd like to thank you for participating in tonight's festivities," Kirari smirked. "So, sorry we couldn't provide any prizes, but you will be recognized as this year's AnimeJapan Pocket Monster champions. Do know as the champions, you reserve the right to defend or relinquish your championships for next year's event."

Skyler turned to Hifumi. "Well?"

Hifumi nodded. "We'll consider it."

"Just one more piece of business. This event isn't over," Kirari caught everyone by surprise.

"What do you mean?" Ren asked her.

"There's still time for more fun. Hifumi and Skyler, as winners of this event, should grant the previous champions a duel. The previous champions of the last Pocket Monster tournament would be my sister Ririka and myself," Kirari openly announced.

"Wait, you won a Pocket Monster tournament?" Yumeko queried.

"That's right. As the previous champion team, we enact our right to challenge the new champions Togo Hifumi and Skyler Jones," Ririka issued.

"What do you think, Hifumi? Should we accept? Skyler asked her.

"In this case, you don't have a choice I'm afraid," Kirari coolly smiled.

"Hey, what gives you that right?!" Ann demanded.

"The moment you signed to compete in this tournament, you waived any rights from declining a challenge from the previous champions. It's my choice whether I want to challenge the new champions or not. And I've elected to issue this challenge. However, why don't we make things more interesting?"

"What do you have in mind?" Hifumi frowned.

"Let's add some stipulations to raise the stakes since we are still gamblers," Kirari proposed as she turned toward Yumeko, Ryōta, Mary, Itsuki, and Midari. "No one knows gambling better than us, right?"

"She's up to something and I don't like it," Midari scowled under her breath.

"Well, tell us then," Mary said.

"Now, Hifumi and Skyler, you have the right to choose a team to fight on your behalf or you could face us. Either way, Ririka and I will face a team. But, it can only be among those who already participated in today's tournament. Now, here's the juicy part. If you defeat me and my sister, congratulations you've successfully defended your championship and we go our merry ways. However, should Ririka and I win, then all of you who've participated in the tournament will give up your rights and become our housepets. And not just our housepets but you'll become The Consortium's properties."

As soon as Kirari proposed this, the Spiritual Gamblers were none too thrilled to hear this. The Thieves and Revenants had heard the horror stories on what happens when gamblers become 'housepets'. They not only do they lose their finances but most importantly their pride.

"No way, you can't be serious!" Ann chided Kirari. "You think we'll willingly go along with that?!"

"Yeah, that's absurd! There's no way you can make us your servants!" Mia dismissed this notion.

"Guys, we can't back out of this," Ren gritted his teeth.

"Why the hell not? We ain't letting them hassle us, man!" Ryuji protested.

"He's right. We don't have a choice. After all, we signed up for this," Mary said. "The worst thing a gambler can do is turn away from a challenge and forfeit."

Nodding, Yumeko added. "That's right. There's no pride if we forfeit. So, all we need is two representatives to fight on our behalf. This will be fun!"

Ryōta sank his head, sighing. "I like how you're taking this lightly, even if our freedoms are at stake here."

"Ok fine. We accept. Not that we have a choice here," Makoto turned, glaring intently toward Kirari.

"That's good to know. Now, which one of you will face Ririka and me?"

"I think I should but I won't deny Hifumi or Skyler that right," Yumeko said. "Go ahead. We place our freedoms in your hands."

"Then, on behalf of our friends, Skyler and I accept your challenge," Hifumi declared.

"Excellent. Now, we'll be using different Pocket Monsters for this special exhibition. Are you two familiar with the Sun & Moon Generation?" Kirari asked the couple.

"Yeah, we are," Skyler answered.

"Good. We'll randomly select Pocket Monsters for you to use. There may be some Sword & Shield surprises as well," Kirari then clapped once. "Sayaka, please fetch us some Switches."

Sayaka bowed and politely responded. "As you wish, Lady Kirari."

As Sayaka went to grab and returned with four Switches, the Thieves, the Revenants, and the Gamblers gossiped over the likelihood they could become housepets for Kirari and The Consortium. Louis even wondered if Hifumi and Skyler could purposefully lose the game so they have better chances of investigating The Consortium while they're working on their property. However, Makoto dismissed this foolish notion, declaring it a risky gamble.

"What are their chances?" Itsuki wondered.

"I don't know but if Kirari and Ririka are teaming together, the odds are in their favor," Ryōta muttered.

"Yeah, this is going to be interesting to watch! Go, Hifumi and Skyler!" Yumeko cheered her friends on.

Io clasped her hands in front of her and prayed. "We have faith in you, Hifumi and Skyler."

"Maybe I should've stepped in and switched places with one of those two," Ren said.

"No, their decision is final. All we can do is put our faith in these two," Louis stated.

"Are we ready, my friends?" Kirari's smile widened as she and Ririka revealed their Pocket Monster teams.

Kirari's team consisted of Zacian (ザシアン), Blizzapos (ブリザポス) (Glastrier), and Solgaleo (ソルガレオ). Ririka's team consisted of Zamazenta (ザマゼンタ), Galarian Freezer (ガラルフリーザー) (Galarian Articuno), and Alolan Raichu (ライチュウ).

"Behold, my sister and I have in our possession the Sword & Shield mascots: Zacian and Zamazenta!" Kirari unveiled the new Legendaries. Nearly everyone marveled at the sight of the new Legendary representatives of the Sword & Shield era.

"Damn, Hifumi and Skyler might have some problems," Yakumo said.

"Dude, unless they pick some strong monsters, they're screwed," Ryuji remarked.

"Let's not sell them short, guys. They'll find some worthy Pokémon," Ren reassured everyone.

Having been short-changed, Hifumi and Skyler were left with fewer monsters to choose from. Nonetheless, they went ahead and created hodgepodge teams on the fly against the Momobamis' stronger teams.

Skyler chose Gekkouga/Ash-Gekkouga (ゲッコウガ) (Greninja/Ash-Greninja), Jyararanga (ジャラランガ) (Kommo-o), and Ptera (プテラ) (Aerodactyl). Hifumi picked Odoridori (オドリドリ) (Oricorio - Baile Style), Windie (ウインディ) (Arcanine), and Togedemaru (トゲデマル).

"Man, they really dealt you a bad hand, Hifumi," Skyler examined her selected Pokémon.

"I'll make do. They saw how well I played and didn't want to take their chances with me. In these situations, I can improvise with lesser monsters."

"They sure stacked the deck giving us Pokémon we're not used to playing, but if there's anyone who can improvise, it's you, babe."

Hifumi smiled. "Thank you." As she turned around, the Shogi player put on a fierce and determined look. "And have faith in your Pokémon, Skyler. We will pull through and defend our kingdom from this adversity!"

"Shall we begin, champions?" Kirari asked, glancing over Hifumi's team. "Watch me crush your little hodgepodge team."

"You're welcome to try," Hifumi rebuked.

"Let this special exhibition match begin!" Sayaka declared as the two teams readied their Pocket Monster teams.

"Former champions get the right to make their first move. So, I'll start," Kirari smirked, sending Blizzapos to the fighting area. Hifumi picked Odoridori. "My, you picked one of your fire monsters? Well, that spells bad news for me. Oh, woe is me." She feigned being overly dramatic with her situation.

Being frugal as she can be, Hifumi scoffed. "Drop the act. I can see through your deception. You have something planned."

"Whatever do you mean?"

"You set this up so I end up with the weaker Pokémon because you've seen firsthand how well I play. I think you fear my skills, Momobami Kirari," the Shogi player rebuked. "You're hoping Skyler and I lose this game so we become your housepets. Sorry to disappoint you but Skyler and I have other plans."

"Oh ho, I can't fool you. I can see why you're friends with Jabami Yumeko."

"She's told me all about you, Kirari. I won't be easily beaten," Hifumi responded with a cold and unnerving smirk that rattled Ririka.

Ririka shuddered. "Kirari, I'd be careful with her. The way she comes off, she reminds me of you."

"Perhaps but that will make this game more exciting," Kirari said as a gleeful smile smeared across her usually calm exterior.

As she sent Blizzapos to attack Odoridori, the glacial horse tried a tail whip, which Odoridori evaded and flew into the air. Odoridori swiftly dove forward and unleashed a fiery wave that neutralized Blizzapos and weakened its icy exterior. As Hifumi and Kirari contested each other, Skyler sent Ptera into an aerial battle with Ririka's Galarian Freezer. Attempting to cast psychic power from its eyes, Galarian Freezer tried to subdue Ptera but Skyler commanded his monster to move away and evade eye contact. Ptera then landed a wing attack and critically damaged Galarian Freezer with Stone Edge.

"Now, I'm getting the hang of this!" Skyler boasted until Galarian Freezer rebounded and confused Ptera, delivering quick flying attacks that drove Ptera down.

"Don't get too overconfident," Ririka scoffed as Galarian Freezer dove toward Ptera, preparing to deliver another critical blow.

At that moment, Ptera evolved into Mega Ptera and evaded Galarian Freezer's diving attack. Mega Ptera struck and quickly took down Ririka's monster with a stone barrage. After defeating Galarian Freezer with Ancient Power, Skyler watched Hifumi and Kirari's competitive fight.

"Don't take your eyes off me!" Ririka called out, sending her Alolan Raichu.

Withdrawing Mega Ptera from the field, Skyler summoned Ash-Gekkouga, which utilized its agility to evade Alolan Raichu's lightning beams.

"Keep her busy, Skyler!" Hifumi called out as her Odoridori defeated Kirari's glacial horse.

Despite losing her Blizzapos, Kirari laughed heartily. "Oh, yes. This is quite exhilarating, isn't it, Togo Hifumi? What do you make of this Yumeko? Doesn't it thrill you to see me this excited for a game?"

Licking her lips, Yumeko gleefully smiled. "Yes, I am! I just wish it was me in there playing against you and gambling my freedom!"

"Boy, am I glad Hifumi is playing and not you," Mary muttered while keenly watching Ririka's gameplay falling short. "I think you better keep a close eye on your sister, Kirari."

"Don't worry about Ririka. If she falls, then I'll have Hifumi and Skyler all to myself with all of your freedom at stake," Kirari summoned Solgaleo while Hifumi switched Odoridori with Windie.

As the Shogi player and the gambler sent their monsters into battle, Windie launched fiery blasts, prompting Solgaleo to dodge its attacks.

"Ririka, keep your head in the game!" Kirari called out. She noticed her twin sister not playing any better against Skyler. As Solgaleo outpaced Windie, Kirari had Solgaleo knock Windie back with a headbutt.

"Sounds to me you're more concerned for your sister than winning this match," Hifumi astutely pointed out.

"Don't be absurd. I intend to win this and make you and your friends our 'housepets'! It's going to be fun making you serve and grovel before me!" Kirari declared, sending Solgaleo to assist Ririka's Alolan Raichu. Solgaleo went for a steel-clawed strike, but Skyler's Ash-Gekkouga swiftly dodged. This direct attack gave Alola Raichu an open shot and blasted Ash-Gekkouga with a Thunderbolt. With his Ash-Gekkouga beaten, Skyler quickly replaced it with Jyararanga. "Nice work, Ririka. Now, how about I get his bothersome dragon?"

"I don't think so!" Hifumi called out while her Windie swiftly burned Solgaleo with Flamethrower.

With her Solgaleo eliminated, Kirari summoned her legendary, Zacian. As Zacian set its sights on Jyararanga, it charged at the dragon with reckless abandon. Once Jyararanga took out Alolan Raichu, Zacian collided with the dragon and unleashed a quick attack. When Jyararanga retaliated with a tackle and a claw slash, Zacian took most of its attacks with little effect. Realizing his dragon's attacks did little to damage Kirari's Legendary Pokémon, Skyler had Jyaranranga go on the defense and guard against Zacian's attacks.

Then, as a sword materialized in its mouth, Zacian showed off its transformed state. Rushing head-on with Jyararanga, Zacian went to deliver the finishing blow, but Hifumi's Windie jumped in and took the blow, sacrificing itself for the dragon.

"Hifumi!" Skyler called out as Windie was eliminated from play.

"Thank goodness, I came in time," Hifumi added.

Then, Ririka sent Zamazenta to pair up with Zacian.

"Well, look at this. Two Legendaries set up to be rivals in the Sword & Shield series are now going to be the catalyst leading to your downfall," Kirari stated smugly. "In just a few moments, we're going to have new housepets. I think you'll be such an adorable mike, Togo Hifumi."

"Keep talking but this match isn't over yet," Hifumi replied with a self-assured smile. As everyone else watched anxiously, fearing that Hifumi and Skyler were biting more than they could chew. However, despite the odds against them, Io remained faithful to her two friends.

When Hifumi returned Odoridori into play, she only had Togedemaru left, which has yet to be used. Skyler was left with Jyararanga and Mega Ptera. With only four Pokémon left, they now placed the Momobami sisters' legendaries. As Zamazenta attacked Jyararanga, Hifumi sent Odoridori, who dove and delivered a flying attack that stunned the beast. As this occurred, Kirari sent Zacian to finish off Jyararanga with a quick sword slash, eliminating Skyler's dragon.

Summoning his only monster left, Skyler targeted Zamazenta's weakness with flying monsters. Mega Ptera was sent to eliminate Ririka's Legendary Pokémon. As a result, Ririka was the first player to be eliminated. With momentum on their side, Skyler and Hifumi looked to turn the tables on Kirari.

"Kirari, I did all I could…" Ririka said, walking off the stage.

Kirari sent Zacian to finish off Mega Ptera with its sword with her attention focused on her two opponents. With his last monster removed, Skyler was eliminated, leaving Hifumi and Kirari as the remaining players left. Hifumi's friends watched anxiously as their hopes lied in the Shogi player's luck.

"You can do it, Hifumi," Io muttered.

"C'mon, Hifumi," Skyler showed his support for his girlfriend.

"So, you have two Pokémon left and one of them is fresh as a daisy. Still, you're going against a legendary and neither one has what it takes to quell Zacian's might," Kirari chuckled with a tone exuding self-confidence.

"Never underestimate the meek. They're always the ones to inherit the niches after the mighty fall," Hifumi rebuked in the face of the overconfident gambler.

"Oh my, Hifumi just might lose this," Yumeko blinked.

"I mean, she is facing a Legendary Pokémon. I guess we can kiss our freedoms goodbye?" Mary said.

"I said might. I never said she'd definitely lose. This one could go either way. Remember one of her monsters is still fresh and I'd put my money on that being Hifumi's trump card, but she's only got one shot since Kirari's Zacian has taken damage already."

Ryōta clenched his hands. "If you say Hifumi has a chance, then I'm willing to believe it."

"You've got this, Hifumi," Ren murmured as he nodded toward her.

Smiling, Hifumi switched Togedemaru with Odoridori, which befuddled everyone. Instead of using her freshest monster, Hifumi used her Odoridori's flight to throw off Zacian's focus. When Zacian went for an attack, Odoridori kept its distance and tossed fiery blasts. Zacian quickly dodged these blasts and used its sword to block Odoridori's fire. Kirari figured out Hifumi's war of attrition strategy and sent Zacian to deliver the finishing blow.

At that moment, Hifumi removed Odoridori from play and sent Togedemaru in its place. When Zacian charged with its sword, Hifumi beckoned Togedemaru to jump out of the way. Narrowly getting slashed by Zacian's sword, Togedemaru used Iron Tail to daze Zacian. Then, it won the battle with Steel Roller, overcoming the worn-out Zacian. Once again, like her match against Jack and Eva, Hifumi was the last competitor standing with two Pokémon left to spare.

"Well, looks like I wasn't dealt a bad hand, after all, Kirari. Remember my words wisely about the meek. Never overlook their importance," Hifumi prudently stated, making Kirari eat her words.

"Indeed, this match is yours, Togo Hifumi," Kirari conceded. "And because of this victory, there will be no new housepets."

"That's my girl," Skyler smirked as the others cheered for her.

"Oh thank god, now I don't get to be a stupid housepet again," Mary sighed with relief.

"Yay, I knew to put my faith in you, Hifumi!" Yumeko hollered.

Upon seeing her rival lose in a big way, Terano couldn't help but soak in Kirari's loss. "Ahaha, yes. Yes, how do you like being humbled on stage, Kirari?!"

"Yes, well done, Hifumi," Io expressed repose with Hifumi's victory, knowing they'll be returning home safe and sound.

"Ok, Momobami Kirari. Your little game is over," Ren declared.

"Indeed, and with that, I thank you all," Kirari bowed before laying her eyes on the Spiritual Gamblers. "My business is done with the Thieves but we still have some business to settle one of these days. Isn't that right, Yumeko?"

Wearing a crazed smile, Yumeko's eyes gleamed red with ecstasy. "Oh yes, indeed. Our Guardian Spirits will be having fun with each other soon."

"Hey, Ririka," Mary approached Kirari's sister, whose cheeks blushed bright rose when meeting the blonde gambler again. "Sheesh, no need to get flustered. It's just me."

"Sorry."

"And stop being apologetic. So, tell me. Did you enjoy playing with your sister?"

"Y-Yeah…"

Mary bit her bottom lip. "I don't buy it. Tell me, are you ok with being affiliated with The Consortium?"

"I… I cannot say…"

"Why not?"

"Because we haven't done anything wrong."

Mary raised her brow with suspicion. "So you say. For you, I'll take your word for it but promise me you'll keep tabs with me on your sister."

Nodding, Ririka replied. "Ok."

"Well, that was an exciting show, but it's getting late, so we'll allow you all to go home free," Kirari said. "Ririka, Sayaka, let us take our leave." With that, the trio headed out of the arena.

Biting her lip, Makoto took a chance and walked up behind the trio.

"Mako-chan?" Haru whispered.

"Hey, you three," Makoto stopped the trio from walking further.

"Can I help you with something, Officer Niijima?" Kirari queried with curiosity.

"That was a cruel game you tried playing by gambling with our lives like that. If Hifumi had lost, how would you have forced us into servitude?" Makoto asked her.

Chortling, Kirari calmly responded. "I have my ways and my connections. They would've helped me take care of your handling before being brought to our headquarters. You ladies would've made a great mike harem and all looked cute in maid outfits. But, that's nothing for you to worry about anymore, I can assure you."

Mia frowned. "Sending handlers to take us away sounds like kidnapping to me!"

Ryuji scoffed. "Let me guess. Us dudes would've been your butlers?"

Kirari nodded. "You hit the nail right on the head, Mr. Sakamoto. You guys would've been our pochis."

"Lady, I ain't that old to be called 'mister'."

Jack scoffed. "And I sure as well would never serve a spoiled brat like you."

Kirari raised her hands. "And you can all rest assured that my hands are clean with the Akihabara incident. My sister and Sayaka also have no involvement with that. So, I'd appreciate no investigations on us."

"But, someone within your organization is involved with it. We have camera stills of your organization's riot guards and eyewitnesses who saw those monsters. One way or another, we will get to the bottom of this," Makoto vowed.

"Then, I wish you and your colleagues luck. It was fun playing with you all!" Kirari winked as she beckoned Ririka and Sayaka to follow her.

Louis and Haru both approached Makoto. They watched the trio of ladies leaving Makoto with ambiguous thoughts.

"Do you still suspect something from those three?" Louis queried.

"Maybe, but at this point, I'm not even sure…"

"Do you consider them suspects linked to The Consortium we heard about from Ren?" Haru asked her lover.

"Possibly, but I'll need more proof than hearsay," Makoto said as Haru hugged her.

"Don't think too hard, Mako-chan. C'mon, we're going to celebrate Hifumi and Skyler's victory."

"Good idea. I'll look into this another time," the officer sighed as Louis and Haru escorted her away.

Louis muttered. "But, Kirari did mention some he. He was in charge of those monsters? Who could she be referring to?"

As everyone headed out of the arena, Io yawned on her way out.

"Getting sleepy, sweetie?" Hifumi smiled at Io, who rubbed her eyes.

"Need sleep…" Io felt fatigued and collapsed on Hifumi.

"Here. I'll carry you," Hifumi said as she gave Io a piggyback ride. "Skyler, I'll go on ahead to our place. You go ahead and celebrate with the others."

"Are you sure you two won't…"

Hifumi nodded and kissed Skyler's cheek. "I'll see you at the apartment." With that, she carried a merchandise bag in one arm while carrying Io on her back.

"Sounds like Io needs another recharge," Skyler smirked.

"Yo, man! We're having drinks! It's on me!" Louis called over to Skyler.

"Make sure Shinya and the kids get home, Mia and Shiho," Ann requested.

"Hey, it's my job as a big sister after all," Mia shrugged as Morgana stayed on her shoulder.

"Glad you've got the kids' safety in mind like a responsible adult, Lady Mia," Morgana added. "Maybe you'd like to join us, Lady Ann?"

"Thanks, Morgana, but me and Ren are going to celebrate before we head home."

Shiho giggled. "Don't drink too hard, you two."

"Ready to go, Eugene?" Sumire asked him.

"Yeah, that was a fun show."

"Boy, am I glad everyone got out of such a raw deal," Rin remarked.

"Yep, now we can all go home," Sumire said, watching Ren and Ann leave. "Goodnight, you two!"

"Let's drink until we're shit-faced!" Yakumo yelled out.

"Some of us are going to drink responsibly, thank you very much," Louis pointed out.

"Good, or I'd arrest your sorry butt," Makoto gave a stern response.

"I'd like to see you try and arrest me!" Yumeko shouted.

"Hey, what did I just say?!" The officer snapped at the Compulsive Gambler.

"C'mon, Yumeko. Let's not do anything stupid," Ryōta pleaded.

"I wouldn't put it past her," Mary rolled her eyes.

"I'd like to see you pussies try and outdrink me!" Midari boasted.

"You're on!" Ryuji shouted.

As the post-con blues kicked in, half of the group returned home, but most of the Revenants, half of the Phantom Thieves, and the Spiritual Gamblers went to a local bar to celebrate Skyler and Hifumi's championship victory.

With the Pokémon event wrapped up, Akechi used this time to get up and leave in a hurry. Having learned that Zenkichi was in the same building, Akechi didn't want to chance an encounter with the detective.

Sensing something off, Zenkichi instinctively turned and scoured the vicinity but Akechi was gone from sight.

"Dad? Are you ok?" Akane asked him.

"Yeah…" Zenkichi quietly muttered as he meticulously looked around further. "I'll be right back, Akane. Stay with your friends for a moment."

"Uh, sure thing," Akane nodded as she talked with Shinya and his friends. When she looked past her shoulder, Akane saw her father searching the arena for somebody.

Makoto saw Zenkichi leave and followed him.

"Mako-chan?" Haru watched her lover leave.

When she picked up the pace, Makoto pursued Zenkichi until he stopped and looked around the convention crowds. She saw him scratching his head.

"Hey, Zenkichi!" Makoto called out.

"Makoto, so you were following me. Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you like that."

"It's ok. So, what is it? Was it Akechi?"

"I don't know but I felt a presence. It's like this person doesn't want me to find him. Whoever he is, he doesn't want us to cross paths."

Makoto shook her head. "It had to be Akechi. I only saw him once when we first arrived here. He might've been watching us compete in that tournament. I would've noticed but I got caught up in that business."

"It's ok, Makoto. Don't worry about it. One of these days, he's bound to let his guard down."

"Do you intend to take him in, Zenkichi?"

Zenkichi sighed. "I just don't want him possibly hurting you guys again, especially I heard about that account when he attacked one of your friends."

"Though, Akechi did apologize to Jack for that incident."

"He's unstable right now, Makoto. You need to be extra cautious handling him. I especially don't want Akane getting in the mix with that guy. I'll say this much, Akane was behind you guys all the way when Akechi appeared on all those talk shows and called your methods as acts of injustice."

Hearing this, Makoto smiled approvingly. "That's our Akane-chan."

"Look, unless he crosses a line, I don't intend to arrest him. I'd like to talk to him so I can better understand him. That said, Sae does believe I should take him in on her behalf."

"My sis and he still have issues to work out, and I can understand her frustrations," Makoto muttered, folding her arms. "Thanks for coming, Zenkichi. Are you going to see sis while you're in town?"

"Well, this was supposed to be a small vacation time with Akane but I think I'll pop in Sae's office and surprise her," he added with a calm smirk.

"Mako-chan!" Louis was heard calling out as he ran up to her. "Is everything ok here? You just went and left us."

"Yeah, Zenkichi and I were done here."

"Haru-chan was getting worried. We're about to leave."

"Ok, I understand. Zenkichi, it was good seeing you and Akane-chan. We'll stay in touch about sis and Akechi."

"Take care and please get some rest. Great job with the tournament!" Zenkichi waved off Makoto as she left with Louis.

When Zenkichi left to meet with Akane, Akechi stood still behind a wall, obscuring himself from the others. Having eavesdropped on their conversation, Akechi walked off and made himself scarce from any altercations. He did consider confronting Zenkichi on that occasion but opted to stay leery while Sae still had it out against him.

11:10 PM (JST)

Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka arrived near a white limousine on their way out of the convention. Waiting for them are Jocelyn, Sister Carolyn, and Miki.

"So, did you have a good time dueling Hifumi and her friend?" Miki asked Kirari.

"Yes, they displayed a splendid showing. I must commend Togo Hifumi for pulling out all the stops at the end of our match. It truly could've gone either way, but she's a more prudent woman than I am," Kirari said, gracefully accepting her defeat.

"So, then your priorities have shifted, Ms. Momobami?" Sister Carolyn asked the former Hyakkaou student president.

"Indeed. After tonight, I don't have any more investment with Hifumi, the Phantom Thieves, or their Revenant friends. From this point forward, I will direct my attention to Jabami Yumeko and her group."

"Do you at least have the data we asked for?" Jocelyn reminded Kirari, who beckoned Sayaka to hand her a small flash drive.

"This has the entire tournament event, recording the Phantom Thieves and the Revenants' strategies. Show it to your benefactors as you please," Sayaka handed the flash drive to Sister Carolyn.

"Thank you for your service for The Consortium. Now, shall we return to our quarters?" Sister Carolyn suggested.

"Yes, let's leave," Kirari said. Before walking into the limo, she saw Ririka facing the arena. "What is it, dear sister?"

"Huh? Oh, nothing. Just thinking about…"

"You're thinking about Saotome Mary?"

"Uh… yes."

Kirari shook her head. "My dear sister, you and Mary still have some business. I can understand but don't worry. This won't be the last time you see her."

"Yeah, ok," Ririka turned away and crawled inside the limo. "And sorry for messing up that game for us. If my head had been in the game, we would've won."

"Who knows? But, I'm not upset. A loss is a loss. We'll pick ourselves back up, Ririka. I merely reap the benefit of facing good competition and that's what I got tonight. The Thieves, the Revenants, Yumeko, and Mary all played fervently. Togo Hifumi and Skyler Jones are such an inseparable duo that we couldn't defeat them," Kirari said as she poured herself some white wine. "Miki, are you looking forward to dueling Hifumi again, sweetie?"

"Yes, I am! And I hope it'll be on a bigger stage than a clubroom."

After pouring wine for Sayaka, Kirari raised her glass. "Then, I look forward to it."

Skyler and Hifumi's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/11:45 PM (JST)

After a long day at AnimeJapan, Hifumi, Skyler, and Io each took baths before retiring for the night. However, their night was still young. With nothing but their bathrobes on, Hifumi and Io walked in and saw Skyler standing in front of them with his undies.

"Io, you said you wanted to share your love with Hifumi and I?" Skyler asked the Persona Vein, who nodded and tilted her head with a curious look on her face.

Walking behind Io, Hifumi massaged the pale girl's shoulders. "Then, why don't we show you, sweetie?"

"I'm ready," Io replied. With that, she and Hifumi undid their robes, revealing their nude bodies. Then, Hifumi held Io's and wrapped her fingers around Io's. "Please share your love with me."

Leaning over and kissing Io's lips, Hifumi sensually grinned. "Don't worry about that. You will have us both." Then, Hifumi licked and sloppily kissed Io's lips. Then, Skyler walked up to them and joined them in a passionate three-way kiss as their tongues and lips physically met.

Then, Skyler leaned his face on Hifumi's chest and sucked on her breasts. Softly moaning from pleasure, she felt her nipples harden while Skyler rolled his tongue over them. Then, he moved over to Io's set of 'Ioobs', which Skyler often called them, and sucked on the Persona Vein's voluptuous chest. As Skyler sucked hard on her well-endowed chest, Io moaned and tossed her head back. Io then gave Hifumi room to lick and suck on her left breast. Io gleefully moaned with her two friends sucking on her breasts at the same time.

Then, as Io collapsed on their bed, Skyler and Hifumi crawled next to her. After removing his undies, Skyler showed off his large member, which was on full display for his ladies. Upon gazing at his manhood, Hifumi and Io grabbed his member while licking and sucking on it. Hifumi demonstrated to Io how to thrust a man's member. Io watched as Hifumi jerked Skyler's manhood. Then, Hifumi started massaging his crotch with her breasts. Mimicking Hifumi, Io used his large breasts to massage their man's sex organ. As they continued massaging their breasts against his crotch, Skyler felt his manhood being stimulated and a powerful flow of ecstasy overcoming him.

Seating Hifumi on his lap and engaging in intercourse with her, Skyler shoved his thick member inside his girlfriend. Giving her powerful thrusts inside her, Hifumi let out a sensual gasp. A red blush quickly spread over her cheeks as the blood flow rushed into her head. She turned over and exchanged slobbering kisses with Skyler. Io climbed next to Skyler's other side, lifting Hifumi's leg over her body, and joined in a three-way slobbering kiss fest. As this went on, the trio kissed and lip locked all while Skyler climaxed inside Hifumi.

"OH YES!" Hifumi let out an enthused cry as a perverse grin smeared across her face.

"FUCK! I'M CLIMAXING!" Skyler bellowed at the top of his voice.

"Do you like that, Hifumi?" Skyler whispered in his girlfriend's ear while leaning close to her with his member still shoved hard inside of her.

"Oh god, you never cease to make me love you," Hifumi murmured, kissing and licking Skyler's lips. "Well, Io? Do you want your turn?"

"Yes, let me have my turn," Io eagerly nodded as Skyler removed his member from Hifumi and shoved it deep into Io, who flinched when she felt him going inside her.

"Sorry, I'll take it slow."

Io dismissively nodded. "No, it's ok." She then sat on Skyler's lap, feeling him going inside and thrusting her hard. Letting out a sensual moan, Io tossed her head back. After several powerful thrusts, Skyler climaxed inside Io, whose face conveyed depravity and red blush covering her cheeks. "Oooooh, that felt really good!"

After taking out his member, Skyler then felt his crotch harden again and twitch as white goo splattered over Io's face, who was taken aback at first. When Skyler tried to apologize and clean her face, Io licked the fluids off her face. Skyler then heard faint panting as he saw Hifumi sticking her fingers inside her crotch, causing her to spill juices. Skyler leaned over and started to eat Hifumi out, licking the juices flowing out of her.

Io then joined in and licked off some of Hifumi's juices. Then, as he faced Io, Skyler had her sucking his member and lied on his bed. Hifumi planted her crotch on top of Skyler's face, letting him continue to eat her out.

"Don't I taste better than any sweet, Skyler Jones?" Hifumi asked him, who answered with a thumbs up. Taking his hands, she folded her fingers around Skyler's and leaned down to kiss Skyler's lips.

As Io finished sucking his crotch, Hifumi then shoved her foot in Io's face. Once Io started licking and sucking Hifumi's feet, Hifumi returned the favor and licked the Persona Vein's feet. Their tongue licked every corner of their sweet-scented feet. Skyler then shoved his crotch into Io and thrust inside the beautiful pale-skinned and white-haired Revenant. At the same time, Hifumi firmly placed Io's face into her crotch and allowed the Persona Vein to lick her fluids.

After finishing their intercourse, the three partners lay in bed together, covered in each other's hot sweat and sexual fluids. Not caring that they've gotten unsanitized again, they were happy being in each other's company. Skyler and Hifumi both leaned over and kissed Io's cheeks. Snuggling close to her two friends, Io never felt satisfied by enduring her first hedonistic night.

"Thank you, Skyler and Hifumi. I will never forget this," Io kindly remarked.

"We're glad to share our love with you, Io," Skyler smiled, covering Io up with their blanket. As Io closed her eyes, Hifumi kissed the pale Revenant's forehead.

"Goodnight," Hifumi smiled lovingly as she and Skyler held hands together with Io laying asleep between them. "I think we should do this again when Io's feeling up to it."

"Sure, that sounds like a plan. This was a great day for us."

Hifumi concurred and kissed his hand. "And let us have more wonderful days like these."

And with AnimeJapan and a beautiful erotic night behind them, the trio looked forward to more eventful and peaceful days, knowing full well the Yami Matter will spoil their downtime.

Chapter Soundtrack

Kakegurui OST - A Flower Without a Match- Setting up matches and the tournament.
Persona 5 OST - My Homie- Conversations among the audience members.
Uncontrollable - Xenoblade Chronicles X OST Heard in Sound Devices - The fan video in CGI like Death Battle's Pokémon vs. Digimon, showing Date Masamune's Mega Lizardon X vs. Sanada Yukimura's Mega Lizardon Y in AnimeJapan before the tournament starts.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Kanto Gym (Intense Action) Heard in Sound Devices - Preparations of the tournament/First Matches.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Hoenn Elite Four Battle Theme Heard in Sound Devices - Preparations of the tournament/Semi-Finals.
Blood Stain Child - Forever Free Heard in Sound Devices - Hifumi/Skyler vs. Makoto/Yakumo.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection- Kanto Rival/Champion Battle Heard in Sound Devices - Skyler/Hifumi vs. Ren/Ann first half.
Blood Stain Child - Moon light Wave Heard in Sound Devices - Skyler/Hifumi vs. Ren/Ann second half.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Groudon/Kyogre Battle Heard in Sound Devices - Skyler/Hifumi vs. Jack/Eva first half such as Lugia vs. Primal Groudon and Ho-oh vs. Primal Kyogre, Tyranitar and Volcarona vs. Alakazam and Skarmory.
Battle! (Lorekeeper Zinnia) - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Heard in Sound Devices - Skyler/Hifumi vs. Jack/Eva second half such as Mega Latias vs. Mega Altaria and Mega Latios vs. Mega Salamence in a Mega Evolution dragon fight (That the four Pokémon originated from the Hoenn region).
Blood Stain Child - S.O.P.H.I.A. Heard in Sound Devices - Hifumi and Skyler defeating Jack and Eva in a Pokémon battle, making them the champions. The aftermath of the private tournament.
Kakegurui OST - The Demise of Mankind - Kirari makes the announcement of a special exhibition match with her and Ririka challenging Hifumi and Skyler. Conditions set that if Kirari and her sister win, the Thieves, Revenants, and Gamblers who competed in the tournament must forfeit their freedoms and become housepets for Kirari and by extension The Consortium. Hifumi and Skyler accept their challenge.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Battle! Sinnoh Gym Leader & Elite Four (Sun & Moon Version) Heard in Sound Devices - Beginning of Hifumi and Skyler's impromptu Pokémon battle against former champions Kirari and Ririka.
Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Battle! Champion (V2) Heard in Sound Device -Hifumi and Skyler working with lesser Pokémon and improvising against Kirari and Ririka's elite Sword & Shield Legendary Pokémon: Zacian and Zamazenta. Hifumi and Skyler's comeback in the second half.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - The Battle at the Summit! - Hifumi and Skyler's comeback in the second half. Kirari and Ririka begin faltering as the latter loses her nerve.
Blood Stain Child - Void dmn str - Ririka and Skyler fall, leaving Hifumi and Kirari to finish the battle. With Odoridori and Togedemaru left, Hifumi improvises amid battle and overcomes Kirari's Zacian, showcasing that the meek can bring down the mighty. Hifumi and Skyler are declared the undisputed champions.
Kakegurui OST - Explaining the Facts - Kirari leaves Makoto, the other Thieves, and company to reconsider investigating them and shift elsewhere to learn more about The Consortium. Zenkichi follows Akechi to a cold trail. Akechi eavesdrops. Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka meet with Miki, Sister Carolyn, and Jocelyn.
Code Vein OST - Requiem- Hifumi, Skyler, and Io's threesome.

A/N: That was sure one fun chapter to write and revise from the original draft. The Pokémon battles sure added some flare and something fresh from the usual battles we've had.

I've never written a Pokémon battle (much a series of matches in a single tournament) with the game mechanics. So, Ford1114 was gracious enough to help me with reminding me of certain Pokémon strengths and weaknesses, on top of the attack names used by the monsters. To be honest, as far as Pokémon in general, I've been out of the loop outside the anime and games since I suppose Generation 3? I am aware of the later Generations and know about the more well-known Pokémon starters and Legendaries, but not so much the general Pokémon. These past couple of years, I did plenty of digging and learned more about the new Pokémon. I've had colleagues keep me up to date.

In general, this was a fun chapter to write nonetheless. Lots of Pokémon of various types have been shown. The various nicknames that stuck out to me were Sakura Kyoko, Soma Frogger, Amberwind, Chassés, Sakuya-hime, and Skywalker. Zmey is taken from a dragon (Zmey Gorynych) in other fanfics I've written.

And yes, I enjoyed every bit of Hifumi putting on Shinya's hat and invoking her competitive gamer spirit. It brings out another facet to her character. She can't stay polite and ladylike too much.

Then, we have the final impromptu Pokémon battle with Kirari and Ririka. They would be the Gym Leaders/bosses in this scenario. Fortunately and despite being shortchanged with their selected Pokémon, Hifumi and Skyler managed to overcome Kirari and Ririka's Legendary Pokémon and win their freedom from becoming The Consortium's housepets.

In a what-if situation, just imagining if Kirari and Ririka won the game, then our heroes would become pochis and mikeys for Kirari and her company and they'd have no choice since they agreed to the stipulations. And even though she has no idea what it is, the Yami Matter would ensure they can't escape by suppressing their Mementos/Revenant/Guardian Spirit powers for Kirari's benefit; though, Hifumi's reality-warping might negate that). Thankfully, this alternate scenario didn't turn out to be the case.

Makoto tries to get Kirari to talk, but of course, she denies it. As of the last chapter, the characters are fully aware of Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka's affiliation with The Consortium. They've yet to meet the other members (though, Hifumi has yet to find out Miki is a member). Don't worry I won't be dragging out the suspense too long and they'll meet these other members.

And then we have the threesome with our two leads and Io. Overall, this chapter was a big win for Skyler and Hifumi.

And that's it. I hope you enjoyed this. It was a challenging chapter, but I think it came out well.

Send a review and see you soon!