Pokémon Journey: XYZ

Hey guys Paradox here and welcome to Chapter 115 and Chapter 32 of XYZ. We finally made it, after almost three years we made it to the Kalos League. Now let me explain how this will go down, in the anime there were seven episodes that composed the entire Kalos League. (Although it could've been five since the battles with Ash vs Sawyer and Alain extended to two episodes.)

Now I plan to extend that abit. Ash will be the main focus while several other trainers like Trevor, Sawyer, and Alain will have their time in the limelight.

I'll have to plan accordingly to ensure these chapters don't feel repetitive and for that I had some help for to incorporate some side stories before, or after these battle. Keep in mind I may even cut these battles short as there would be more than one battle per chapter to prioritize.

In a nutshell, I'll do my best to ensure these chapters don't get repetitive and I'll try to make them interesting. Now for this first one to kick off, and this is kinda ironic, I'm sticking to the anime episode but with major differences obviously. Now let's get started.


"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."- Lao Tzu


Chapter 115: The Lumiose Conference: Part 1

Three and half weeks passed since the visit to Janet and passing into the mountain range where they trek into an ancient kingdom hidden within. Clemont geeked out the entire time they were in the Azoth Kingdom due to its mechanical superiority and little involvement with the Digital Age. But of course everywhere they go, trouble occurs. This time came in the form of the kingdom's minster named Alva who was mad genius...keyword 'mad', who wanted to use as the Mythical Artificial Pokémon Magearna to take control all of Azoth.

Together with Magearna's fiercest defender, another Mythical Pokémon with the personality of a grouchy old man, Volcanion the group prevailed. Despite Alva's mad genius who manage to created a powerful device to Mega Evolve without the need of the stones or a strong bond, the odds stacked against them, and Volcanion's cynicism towards humans, together they save the Azoth Kingdom with the aid of the Kingdom's princess and prince. All in the day's work, the group move on to Santalune City. From there was just a nice walk to Lumiose City. Just in time for the Kalos League.

The group approach Diamondback Stadium just outside the city. Loads of crowds swarm the entrance, trainers preparing their Pokémon while news crews interviewed them. "I haven't seen this many people since the Master Class." Serena said. "It makes sense, this is the biggest event of the year." Rene said. "Which reminds me, the one in Kanto will start in about a month and a half. I really gotta be there for it." Drake said. "You still got time." Clemont said. "I suspose so." Drake wondered. "Come on guys. I gotta go register." Ash said.

Meanwhile moonlighting in her day job, Malva interview trainer after trainer hearing almost the same thing; boasting their strengths, and declaring their victory in the Conference. She sighed but that change when she saw them. Lysandre had been reminding her how vital they were to him while she had her doubts. But for now she had to play the part of the jittery reporter until the time has come. She approached them, "Hi there, Malva from KCN, reporting live from Lumiose City's Diamondback Stadium. Hello young man, you seem like a strong trainer. Are you perhaps here to compete in the Lumiose Conference?. Malva asked Ash.

When it came to news, Ash felt nervous as by the cameraman pointing his live camera at him, televising all over Kalos. Deciding what to say, he decided to stay humble and honest. "Yes I am." Ash said straightforward. "And what is your name?" Malva played. "It's Ash Ketchum." Ash said. "Oh my, well you're quite the celebrity around here. No doubt you'll nip this competition in the bud." Malva said. "Well image isn't everything but I promise to aim high with what I learn and experienced in my time here." Ash said. "A splendid answer. Now since you're competing, word is you're more favored to win." Malva said.

"Well, like I said image isn't everything. I won't get by with not my looks but my skill and tenacity." Ash said. "Wonderful answer. I couldn't put it better myself. You heard it folks, Kalos's famed hero is here to compete in the Lumiose Conference." Malva reported which everyone on the grounds and perhaps all of Kalos saw. Some trainers felt intimidated, some felt excited, energetic and inspired. "Leave it to Ash to get a everyone pumped." Drake said.

"He does lead by example." Serena said. On other parts of the grounds, Sawyer and Trevor saw Ash's interview and felt inspired. Alain saw it in other part and was proud, so Ash was here to compete just as he expected. Meanwhile another boy saw the interview but felt none of what others did. He was annoyed and pissed. Now he'll show this punk what it means to have the world brought down on him.

That evening, all the competitors were invited to a dinner where they'll announce the match-ups that'll begin tomorrow. "It's a nice banquet." Drake said as he munch on a croissant. "Man, I really inching to know who I'll be facing tomorrow." Ash said. "Patience dude. I thought you would be satisfied with your food for now." Rene said. "Knowing Ash, It takes a whole buffet to satisfied his hunger." Bonnie joked. "I'll hold you to that." Ash said.

Over to the side Ash saw Sawyer and waved, remembering his promise to the boy that they would meet on an equal battlefield. "Hey everyone." The group looked to see Shauna, Tierno and Trevor by their table. "Hey guys, you made it." Ash said. "Have you come to compete?" Clemont asked. "Just the boys here, I'm still focused on improving my performances." Shauna said. "Speaking of which, hello my Kalos Queen." Tierno awed over Serena who shyed abit away. Ash clear his throat roughly that it was loud for Tierno to hear. Knowing who Ash was, Tierno immediately backed off.

"Right, I meant your Kalos Queen." Tierno said. "Remember that." Ash warned. "I still can't believe my best friend is the Kalos Queen." Shauna shrieks. "It kinda sunk it already but that's only because I didn't accept the role yet." Serena said. "That and she ran before her inauguration began." Drake said. "Okay, so there might be a chance people don't actually know about this. About me." Serena said. "I guess we'll figure that out once this is over." said Rene.

"Say if Ash wins here, there's a chance he could become champion alongside the Kalos Queen." Bonnie said. "That'll be a dream come true." Serena awed on the idea. "Well first he's gotta get past me." Trevor said. "Don't leave me out of this." Tierno joined. "This one for all the marbles guys, so I won't hold back." Ash said. "Same here, we both got a secret weapon just for this occasion." Trevor said. "You'll see it soon enough." Tierno said.

While they conversate, Ash peak past Tierno to the outside area of the dining hall where he saw Alain talking with Professor Sycamore. "Excuse me." Ash stood up and walked over but began to hear arguing from Alain. "I didn't mean it like that." Augustine said. "This is a path I must take. If it means it'll help Mairin and Chespie especially. I'm taking it!" Alain argued. "I understand your position but the actions that Lysandre has you partake. I'm worried." Augustine said. "Lysandre is a good man who help advance Kalos's technological development. He promised to help Mairin and Chespie and for me to get stronger. I owe him my allegiance." Alain said. "This most likely won't end well." Augustine said. "I'll take my chances, excuse me." Alain said as he brush past Professor Sycamore as the latter sighed sadly on his former pupil's choices.

Ash heard their word and could hear Alain's footsteps. Pretending to mind his own business, Ash step back to walk forward and turn a corner where Alain nearly bumps into him. "Oh Ash, apologizes." Alain said. "No need, just wanted to say hello." Ash said. "I see, and you're here to challenge everybody." Alain said. "I'm here to win just like everyone." Ash said. "I see, well I came here to settle the score. Winning the Kalos League means little for me." Alain said. "I thought you were trying to be the strongest Mega Evolution trainer in Kalos." Ash said. "I am, but doing so also prove my superiority." Alain said. "Be king of the hill right?" Ash said.

"Yes, but you're my greatest challenge Ash, and here we'll settle things." Alain said. "Why so serious? The main thing to do while you're here is have fun." Ash said, surprising Alain a bit. "Perhaps." Alain spoke. "Come on, they gotta be announcing the match ups for tomorrow." Ash invites as he and Alain head back to the dining area.

Soon, the League Officials stood on the front podium. "Welcome everyone, and we congratulate every one of you to gather your eight gyms badges needed to compete here. Tonight will simply match up tomorrow's matches. These will be randomize by computer for an equal playing field. Now please look above to the holo screen for your schedule opponent." The official said as the computer scramble every competitor who register.

This year's Kalos League consists of 64 trainers separated into four groups which then line into a bracket. It'll be a single style elimination tourney. Each group held up to sixteen trainers with the trainer's picture facing across from them will be their opponent. "Here are tomorrow matchups." Everyone looks to see as the match ups as they will start with the first group, top left hand corner. The first match will be between Trevor and Alain. "Wow, you guys get to kick off the Kalos League." Ash said. "Y-yea." Trevor said nervously as he didn't think he start first. "Ash yours is after Trevor's." Tierno said.

Ash looks to see he was going to compete in the second match up with a boy named Titus. "Man I'm so pumped." Ash yells. "Take it easy you, save it for your match tomorrow." Serena playfully jabs Ash's ribs. "I got enough to spare honey." Ash grins. "I'm in the third group." Tierno said upon seeing his match up with a younger girl name Olivia. "So it'll be some time until you get to battle." Rene said. "It's perfect, I get to put in some practice." Tierno said.

"The first two groups will make up tomorrow matches while the remaining two will continue the following day. By the end of the second day only 32 competitors will succeed to the second round. We wish you all the best of luck. Now everyone can now retire to the ground dorms or the Pokémon Center for the evening." The officials stated as they applauded.

"Guess we better hustle to the Pokémon Center before it gets booked." Drake said. "Say Ash, you seem to know Alain. How strong is he?" Trevor asked. "Well...he's no slouch and doesn't pull punches. You'll definitely have to plan ahead for him." Ash said. "I see, well I guess I'll be busy tonight." Trevor said. "Don't overdo it." Shauna said. "Worry about that later, for now we need to find a place to stay quick." Rene suggested. "Great once we do, I got a few errands to do." Ash said.

Once arriving at the Pokémon Center, the gang was lucky to get a six bed room while Ash and Serena couldn't reserve a room of their own due to reservation for other trainers. Once settling in, Ash and Drake headed back to the lobby to the phone booths. "It's about time you're calling home. Mom's kinda been hammering me to get you to call." Drake said. "I'll apologize a lot but that'll wait because I was call Professor Oak's lab first." Ash said as he dials home. "Next I'm gonna call Keanan to see if he can send me Goodra. I wouldn't want to leave him out of this." Ash said as his call connected.

But rather then Professor Oak picking up, it was none other then Delia with a stern look, startling the brothers. "Mom?!" Both exclaimed. "Ash Ketchum, you are in a heep of trouble. Are you too busy to call your own mother since going to Kalos!? And you, is it that hard for you to drag him to a phone booth." Delia questioned as Drake threw a confused look. "I'm sorry mom, really. I've been...busy." Ash said. "No excuses! And the fact you phone the Lab instead of home tells me you're avoiding the issue. Do you not love me anymore?" Delia asked. "No, no not that. You're the best mother in the world and I promise I'll make it up to you." Ash panics.

"In that case, you can make it up by allowing me to meet this girl you've been seeing that Drake mention." Delia said as Ash grew nervous. "I won't hang up until you bring her over." Delia said making Ash rather queasy. "Hey honey, what's gong on." Serena came over by a stroke of fate or...bad timing. "H-hey Serena." Ash said. "So Ash, is this her?" Delia heard Serena's voice. "Oh uh..Serena, you remember my mother. You guys met once." Ash said. "Oh right, it's nice to meet you Ms. Ketchum, I'm Serena. You probably don't remember me but I met Ash when we attend Professor Oak's Pokémon Summer Camp when we were eight." Serena said.

"Oh, ah yes. I've met you and your mother on the last day. It's nice to be reacquainted with you Serena." Delia said. "Ash is this your significant other?" She pressed. "Oh ah.." "oh yes, me and Ash have been going out for almost a year now." Serena said. "I see, well forgive me for this new revelation as my son refuse to pass this on." Delia scowls. "You didn't tell your mom about us?!" Serena asked in the same manner. "I.I...uh, Drake help me out here?" Ash pleads. "You're on your own dude." Drake backs off. "Well, since we are now acquainted Serena, you and Ash can now tell me about your adventures." Delia said as Serena happily agreed while Ash mentally groaned about the embarrassing questions he'll receive.

What was an hour of conversating was an hour of Ash's dignity swept out of his body. From talks of dates, events to uncomfortable topics like sex and a possible wedding that even Serena tried to steer clear of. Now free from Ash's mom interrogation, Ash and Serena wait for Keaton to come by as they heard honking from the road. They saw Keaton in his truck with Goodra riding in the back. "Hey Keaton." Ash calls. "Hello Ash, when you called me to Goodra over, this guy couldn't contain his excitement." Keaton said.

"Well I made a promise right. We all are finishing this together." Ash said as scratches Goodra's chin, earning a playful growl. "We'll be rooting for you from the Wetlands." Keaton said. "Thanks for everything Keaton." Serena said as Keaton prepares to depart. "Ready to go in buddy." Ash said as he preps Goodra's old Pokéball. Goodra touches the button and allows himself to return inside. "Great so shall we head to bed now. I'm starting to feel drowsy." Serena said as Ash agreed. As they prepare to head back, Ash had an epiphany.

"Shoot!" Ash shouted. "What is it?!" Serena asked. "After that conversation with my mom, I never got the chance to talk to Professor Oak." Ash said. "Oh...well that can wait until tomorrow. Let's go to bed." Serena said as Ash grew sad. Guess his business will have to wait until tomorrow after the Introduction Ceremony.

The Fledgling were release to the skies as the Kalos League finally begins. Thousands sat on the stands steer as on the front platforms was the Kalos Champion herself along with Professor Sycamore with all eight Gym Leaders, including Clemont, who flock to Lumiose City for this event. "On behalf of the Pokémon League, I welcome all participants to this year's Kalos League. Each and everyone of you has collect eight badges which demonstrate your strength, skill, courage and bonds with your Pokémon. Now show us all you learn on your journey and in the end, one of you will go down in history when you are called victorious." Diantha speaks as everyone applaudes.

"Now the rules are as follows: The following rounds will consist of three Pokémon only, substitutions allowed, and a winner is decided when all three's Pokémon is unable to battle. Once we reach the Top Eight contestants is when full six on six battles will commence." A league official explained. "It makes sense since they want to trim down the time to make it to the top 32 quickly." Ash said. "Not to mention you only have half of your party to pick to battle. Meaning you have to pick strategically." Rene said.

"Now let us commence our first battle between Trevor and Alain." Diantha kicks off as a battlefield was set up and suspended over a big hole. The type of field was a mountain terrain mixed with a river flow in the middle as Trevor and Alain walked from opposite sides making their debut.

"The battle between Trevor and Alain will commence at once. Both sides will use three Pokémon and the match will conclude once all of one's side Pokémon are unable to battle. Substitutions are allowed." The referee said. "I prepare for this battle prehand and my strategies will come out on top." Trevor said as Alain admires the kid's positivity. "I admire your courage but fortune favors the bold. Rather on well laid plans, I follow my instincts." Alain spoke.

"Okay, well I start with Florges." Trevor release the Garden Pokémon to battle. "I see in that case, Metagross come out." Alain let loose the Iron Leg Pokémon. Trevor then knew he had his work cut out for him dealing with a part Steel type.

"Okay gang, next time you see me I'll be right down there." Ash said. "You already selected who you're gonna battle with?" Drake asked. "I got it. I'll be starting off with my current party." Ash said. "We'll still be rooting for Trevor." Shauna said. "We all are." Rene said. Meanwhile Serena gave Ash a quick smooch, "Best of luck babe." Serena said. "You're the best." Ash smiled as he got up and left to the preparation area. "You two are adorable. I'm so jealous." Shauna said as Serena smirks.


1st round, Trevor vs. Alain: Three on Three

"Florges start with Grassy Terrain." Florges release an aura to the ground which cause it to turn glow green that'll power up Grass type moves. "I see, in that case Metagross use Agility then follow with Meteor Mash." First Metagross rockets straight in a zig zag pattern to sharply increase its Speed then blasts of in a blue veil that Florges couldn't dodge and taking damage.

"Use Energy Ball." Florges stood up and fires a ball of green power at Metagross who's hard skin tanks the blow. "Use Psyshock." With it's claws, Metagross fires purple lightning tendons that hone in on Florges. "Flower Shield." Using nature's power, Florges summons a pure green force field that negated the Psyshock away while also increasing Defense.

"Metal Claw." Going physical, Metagross engages in with sharp claws. "Use Magicial Leaf." Florges fires out hidden leaves at Metagross which were sharp to bruise Metagross's body but didn't stop the metal brute from charging. "Flower Shield." Florges then forms another nature shield that kept Metagross's Metal Claw at bay. "Use Rock Slide." Metagross made a quick step back then began hurdling rocks at Florges, burying her in an earth avalanche.

"Use Fairy Wind." By stiring the wind in a pink vortex, Florges blew away the boulders off her. "Use Moonblast." With lunar energy, Florges fires a pink ball at Metagross who takes the hit. Trevor knew it wouldn't be enough as Fairy type moves have minimal damage on a part Steel type. "Use Agility then follow with Metal Claw." Metagross then increases his Speed once more while rocking ahead with sharp claws. This time manage to land a critical blow on Florges, knocking it out.

"Florges is unable to battle, Metagross is the victor." The referee calls.

Trevor returns Florges in dispair, knowing it was a long shot to beat Metagross at a disadvantage. "Ash wasn't kidding when this guy doesn't pull punches." Trevor thought to himself. "Your next Pokémon." The ref asked. "Right, come out Aerodactyl." Trevor chose the aerial fossil Pokémon as his next partner. "We won't have much trouble this time." Trevor vowed. "Use Flamethrower." Aerodactyl kicks off by firing a stream of flames at Metagross.

Meanwhile

Ash was marching down the corridor that leads to the main field. From the outside of the field, he'll have to wait until Trevor and Alain finish their match. But he was stopped short by someone in his path. "Hey kid." Ash saw a boy his age, a punk, with half his head shaved off while the other was a wavy red locks, a red crop leather jacket, navy shirt, black leather pants and work boots along with fingerless armed gloves.

"Hi..." Ash spoke awkwardly feeling this kid wants to cause trouble. "Name's Everett. Saw your interview earlier, saying how you gather eight pointless badges. Now you're gonna somehow win the Kalos League." Everett said. "I can try to and those Gym Badges aren't worthless. Each one is a milestone how far you travel on your journey. How you'd meet great and battle powerful trainers, each time you grow better weather you win or lose." Ash said.

"What are you a philosopher?! I don't care about that." Everett said. "Then what do you want with me?" Ash asked. "Simple, a battle between me and the self-made greatest trainer in Kalos." Everett said. "Well...I really got somewhere to be. My match is next." Ash said. "Pity. But I'm not leaving until you battle me." Everett said then release a Furfrou in a aggressive stance.

"This is not the time for negotiation." Ash said upon being threaten. "Good because talk is cheap. Furfrou." Everett had his Furfrou fire a Charge Beam at Ash's feet who then sidesteps out of the way. "You don't wanna do this kid." Ash warns. "Oh I believe I do. The only way you'll ever get to that battlefield is through me." Everett said. "Well maybe I'll break your arms and legs then have the police wheel you to the hospital on a gurney." Ash offers. "Okay maybe not, but fine! Don't got time for this shit! Let's go buddy." Ash calls Pikachu to battle now facing Everett's Furfrou.

Metagross falls with a thud after another Flamethrower wears him down. "Metagross is unable to battle. Aerodactyl succeeds." The referee calls. "You did well. Now for my next Pokémon, Tyranitar." Alain release the Armor Pokémon. "Huh, I can work with this." Trevor thought of the possibilities.

"Man this guy's annoying." Ash said upon dealing with Everett. His Furfrou knew Protect which was negating all his attacks. "You can't keep blocking forever you know." Ash said. "And you're running out of time." Everett called. "Then I'll stop holding back." Ash said. "Use Take Down." Furfrou then began to charge ahead toward Pikachu recklessly. "Iron Tail Slam." Charging against Furfrou and once get close, Pikachu charges his tail to steel and swings his tail overhand fast, landing a heavy blow on Furfrou's head.

"Use Sand Attack." "Use Quick Attack." Furfrou then tries to throw dirt at Pikachu until the latter dodges by wall running then tackling Furfrou. "Grrr! What makes you so persistent! So vulgar!?" Everett said. "I think you're confusing vulgarity with tenacity and I don't throw away any experience. What I'm throwing at you now is part of my potential." Ash said.

"One more blow Tyranitar, use Stone Edge." "Use Hyper Beam Aerodactyl." Both Pokémon fire their attacks at each other and watch as both attacks rang past each other and strike their intented targets. Both attacks rocked the field as the smoke clears to see both Pokémon knocked out. "Both Pokémon are unable to battle." The referee calls.

"Hmm...you proven stronger than I thought." Alain chuckles upon returning Tyranitar. "I can say the same thing about you." Trevor smile. "But now to put this match behind us. Charizard let's go." Alain calls to his #1 partner as Charizard roars out. "Great minds think alike, don't you agree buddy?" Trevor asked upon releasing his own Charizard. "Yes, a battle among titans. But we'll show you that we reign superiority." Alain said.

"We'll see that. Charizard use Heat Wave." Trevor's Charizard expel out hot flames from his wings at his opponent. "Dodge and use Steel Wing." Alain's Charizard flies forward, being evasive to avoid the blast of hot embers. "Grab him." Trevor's Charizard saw his attack miss and bracing himself to take his opponent's attack. Tanking the hit, Trevor's Charizard gets a grip on Alain's Charizard wings as the latter was trying to overthrow him.

Eventually they disengage and stare down one another. "Use Dragon Claw." "Counter with Dragon Tail." Both Charizard then engage in combat, countering one another's blows until once again entering a stalemate. "Hmm..it seems we won't decide this battle on normal terms. Let us succeed them then by displaying our hearts!" Alain calls out as he touches his Key Stone where it then glowed. "Beyond evolution, Mega Evolve!" Charizard undergoes metamorphosis as his form grew. Once the light died down, Alain's Charizard was Mega Charizard X.

"Hmm I can agree with you. I got a secret weapon of my own." Trevor said as he turns to his Holo Caster where a Key Stone rest. On his Charizard attached on his tail was a Mega Stone. "Let us show you our bond as well." Trevor touch his Key Stone causing a reaction. Unlike Alain's Charizard, Trevor's Charizard transformation was different by adding a third horn between his two on his head, his wings grew to a demonic form, added spikes on his tails and gliders on his arms. This was Mega Charizard Y.

"Incredible! We now see two Mega alternate Charizard against each other." The announcer said. "So that was Trevor's secret weapon." Drake said as the others were astounded.

Ash heard the announcement from the corridor and knew he was missing a great climax. "I'm missing a great battle between two friends of mine because of you." Ash growled. "Do I look like I care? Just shut up and fight." Everett asked. "How about stop using Protect and follow your own advice?" Ash spat.

"Use Fire Spin." Towering above Charizard X, Trevor's Charizard fires a spinning flame at his opponent. "Use Dragon Claw to cancel." Charizard X use two green claws to discard the Fire Spin into nothingness. "We'll need to wear him down buddy." Trevor said as his Charizard agreed. "No matter what you attempt, our resolve remains as strong as ever." Alain said. "Use Flamethrower." "Counter him." Both Charizard fire streams of flames that counter each other. The continuation streams try to overpower one another as both trainers were putting motivation in their partner.

Eventually Charizard Y was losing breath and began to recede while Charizard X began to overpower him until striking him finally, knocking Charizard Y to the ground. "Now use Thunder Punch." Now going in, Charizard X charge his fist with electricity to land a critical blow. "Encase yourself with Fire Spin." To protect himself, Charizard encase himself in a fiery vortex that Charizard X cease his attack. "Now Dragon Tail." Flying through the flames, Charizard Y manage to surprise his opponent with a mighty blow from its tail.

Being knocked into the river by a super effective move, Alain needed an edge to wear Charizard Y down. "Again with Dragon Tail." Charizard Y then engage to attack Alain's Charizard with another green tail. "Use the river. Douse him in water." With a slam on the river, Charizard X made a splash that soak his opponent, weakening him. "Now Thunder Punch." Now soaked and exposed, Charizard X managed to deliver a 4x critical blow on Charizard from type disadvantage and being soaked from the river.

Trevor's Charizard got the wind knocked out of him and was left at his opponent's mercy. "Finish this with Blast Burn." Flying above his opponent, Charizard X charges up and fires a gigaton blast that envelopes the field. Once the field was visible, Charizard Y was down and reverted back to base form.

"Trevor's Charizard is unable to battle, Alain's Charizard wins and the match goes to him." The referee calls.


"No, it's over for me." Trevor said as he return his Charizard back. "You did your best." He said to his partner. "You taught me a lot today and gave me a run for my money. I will have to train harder if I'm ready for my greatest challenge." Alain thanked Trevor as the boy accepted his candor.

"Use Volt Tackle." One more charge will do the trick as Furfrou's Protect failed to project as the Mouse Pokémon tackle it under an electrical veil, causing it to faint. "Nooo!" Everett groaned. "There happy punk?! Now if you excuse me, I have to get to the field." Ash said as he made a dash past Everett. "Wait!" Ash stopped suddenly when he heard Everett's voice croak.

"I...I couldn't get all the Gym Badges in time. I wanted to compete today but I..." Everett said. "I'm sorry to hear that." Ash spoke plainly. "People know about you, and that they're rooting for you to win. Now including me. Will you disappoint?" Everett said. "Suspose you're just gonna have to watch and find out." Ash smile as he now ran off, knowing he has seconds to make it to the field.

"With our first match done, we now invite our next participants for our second match." The announcer asked as Titus down to his challenger box. Meanwhile Ash has yet to appear. "Umm...where's Ash?" Rene asked. "Ohh I hope he didn't get distracted by something." Drake groaned. "What if he's in trouble?" Serena asked with concern. "He'll be in trouble regardless of where he is." Shauna said.

"We now give the twenty second warning for our remaining contestant. Should he not show in time will result in a disqualification." The announcer said. "Come on little brother, you didn't come all this way to not chicken out." Drake spoke. "Ten seconds remain." The announcer said.

"Wait!"

Everyone in the stadium saw finally Ash run out of the corridor and onto his challenger box. "Sorry I'm late." Ash chuckled. "Well...now we got both participants on the field, let us commence with our second match." The announcer said. "The battle between Ash and Titus will now begin. The rules stated before will apply now will our trainers present their first Pokémon." The referee said.

"It's a real honor to battle you Mr. Ketchum, I've heard stories of your battling skills." Titus said. "I'm sure you'll give me a challenge." Ash smiled. "I promise not to disappoint. For my first partner." Titus release an Altaria to battle first. "Huh, in that case. Come out Goodra." Ash release the Dragon Pokémon, adding an equal playing field.


1st round, Ash vs. Titus: Three on Three

"I'll let you go first." Ash said. "If you insist, Altaria come out strong with Draco Meteor." Flying around, Altaria fires a single meteor that exploded into dozens raining down to the sky. "Use Dragon Pulse, Blast them to pieces." Goodra charges up and fires a rainbow pulse blast to shoot down several meteors inbound to him. "As long as Altaria is in the air, this will be a handful." Ash thought of the situation, luckily he has a few ideas.

"Use Dragon Rush." Altaria then charges in a rainbow veil at Goodra. "Use Ice Beam." Digging his feet in, Goodra fires a ice cold beam at the Humming Pokémon, doing 4x the damage and freezing him solid. "Oh no," Titus cries. "Now for the closer. Use Draco Meteor." With the new move learned back home, Goodra fires a meteor that explodes into dozens. The Altaria trapped in ice never stood a chance as it got bombarded. Just like clockwork to Ash, his opponent Pokémon laid there fainted.

"Altaria is unable to battle. Goodra wins." The referee said.

"You did great bud. I must say you don't hold back." Titus said. "Think with your head, fight with your heart." Ash said. "I gotta, now for next partner." Titus release an Aromatisse as his second Pokémon. "Hmm...I'll stick with Goodra." Ash said knowing he's taking a big risk. "Your funeral, Aromatisse use Fairy Wind." Aromatisse then begins to stir up the wind into a pink funnel that which Goodra was in the middle of.

"Use Bide." From the burning and inching cause by the Fariy Wind, Goodra starting storing energy from the attack. "Use MoonBlast." With lunar energy, Aromatisse fires a pink ball that nails Goodra head on who was stilling using Bide. "Let's not give them a chance. Use Giga Impact." In a great charge attack, Aromatisse close in on Goodra who was waiting. "Unleash Goodra." With a roar, Goodra enveloped Aromatisse in a white flash, pushing it back.

"Use Ice Beam." "Follow with Attract." While Goodra was charging up, Aromatisse flash its lashes to let out a set of hearts. Goodra was confuse as the hearts until they absorbed into him, now immobilized by love. Ash then saw and understood, Titus's Aromatisse was female which puts him in a predicament. "Now use Draining Kiss." Aromatisse then floated up to Goodra who was all giggy and gave him a smooch on his cheek, causing the latter to be shocked to the core and have his remaining health drain and transfer to Aromatisse.

"Goodra is unable to battle. Aromatisse wins it." The referee said. "That move always creeps me out." Drake said. "Drake Ketchum, afraid of a kiss are we?" Rene calls out having the others join on the roasting. "It's just the type of thing a femme fatale does." Drake said. "And here I thought you had a thing for dangerous women." Serena joked.

"I must say, I didn't see that coming." Ash said upon returning Goodra. "Just like you said, think with your head, fight with your heart." Titus reminded. Ash meanwhile thought how to get pass Aromatisse's Attract, problem was that his Pokémon were all male meaning they're all susceptible. So that means he'll have to rely on other countermeasures. "Pikachu is still resting from the battle with Everett."

"Guess I only got other option. Greninja let's go." Ash selected as Greninja was next to Pikachu being an all round, versatile partner. "Let's kick off. Aromatisse use Fairy Wind." Once more, Aromatisse stir up a wind funnel towards Greninja. "Dodge around it." Despite the vacuum's pull, Greninja quickly ran around the vortex at blazing speed that Aromatisse couldn't track.

"Use Aerial Ace." Going on offense, Greninja did a Axe Kick down the back of her head. "Follow up with Night Slash." With two swords, Greninja did a cross slash to hit Aromatisse, despite half the damage due to type status it had left a mark. "Let's try this again. Use Attract." Aromatisse begins to act flirty and sends a few hearts at Greninja.

"Tsk, tsk, tsk, can't fool me the same way twice. Use Double Team." With that, Greninja create a dozen copies around Aromatisse. Titus gasped in worry since no doubt the Attract would only affect a fake. And it did, now leaving Aromatisse surrounded. "Use Hydro Pump." With all but one attack were illusions, Aromatisse was pushed and soaked by a high stream of water. "Finish thus with Water Shuriken." Before it could get up, one more blow came in the form of a compressed water star that finally cause Aromatisse to faint.

"Aromatisse is unable to battle, Greninja is the winner." The referee said.

"Great job Aromatisse. I guess the stories about your battling style were true." Titus said. "You got some moves yourself." Ash said, "Allow me to show you more. My strongest Pokémon." Titus said as he released a Tyrantrum as it roared loudly. "Big guy huh?" Ash said to himself. "I'll stick with Greninja on this." Ash said.

"Have it your way. Tyrantrum use Ancient Power." With a prehistoric power, Tyrantrum threw rocks at Greninja. "Dodge forward." With his ninja reflexes, Greninja dodges by jumping from rock to rock as they flew past him. "Water Shuriken." Once clear, Greninja flings two water stars at Tyrantrum, hitting him on the head. In Ash's eyes Tyrantrum's size will make it easy to land hits but he really need to wear out that tough skin Tyrantrum has.

"Use Aerial Ace." A flying kick through the air, Greninja tries to get physical once again. "Use Head Smash." With its heavy head, Tyrantrum knocked Greninja off his attack by a full head tackle. "Now Thrash." With rage, Tyrantrum randomly attacks Greninja, knocking it backwards. "You good buddy?" Ash asked as Greninja went back on his feet. "This time it ain't just about being faster bud. I'll say it's time." Ash said Greninja understood where his trainer was going.

"What are you planning?" Titus asked. "Let's just say we got a secret weapon of our own." Ash smirked as he and Greninja began to harmonize and synergy synchronized. Soon a water veil envelopes Greninja and then form to the big Water Shuriken on its back, becoming Ash-Greninja.

"Uhh, does Greninja have a Mega Evolution?" Shauna asked. "Nope and trust us that this is something only Ash and Greninja can do." Serena said. "Incredible! Greninja had somehow change its form." The announcer said.

"What is this?" Titus said. "Call It our last breath." Ash said. "Use Head Smash." Tyrantrum charges in with a heavy head to attack. "Double Team." In a blink of an eye, Ash-Greninja create dozens of copies to cover half the battlefield. "Use Ancient Power, get rid of them." Tyrantrum then threw ancient rocks to destroy some copies. "Use Crunch." Tyrantrum then followed by biting down some copies with its large jaws but even then none were real.

"Water Shuriken." The rest of the copies jumped high and fling the giant water star to Tyrantrum at which only one felt real when he felt pain on his back. "Hydro Pump." Ash-Greninja followed up with another high-pressured stream of water that was powerful to knock Tyrantrum off its hind legs. "We won't let it end here, use Thrash." Tyrantrum roar in anger as it tried to land a blow on Greninja. Ash knew wouldn't want to get closer while Tyrantrum was attacking which means waiting it out.

Greninja felt his trainer's thoughts and knew to keep away first by front flipping of the raging Tyrantrum. By then Tyrantrum calmed down but only because of Thrash's aftereffect. "Confusion, Exactly what I waiting for." Ash said as Titus was sweating bullets. "Use Water Shuriken, full power." Exerting more power into the star, it grew in size as a result and Greninja finally threw it, landing a perfect bullseye on Tyrantrum's eyes.

Titus gasped as he saw Tyrantrum fell with a thud. "Tyrantrum is unable to battle. Greninja wins which means trainer Ash Ketchum moves to the second round." The referee calls as the crowd cheers for their favorite to win. "Guess that's it. You're really the best trainer I know and fought." Titus said. "That means a lot Titus." Ash thanked. "I'll be routing for you." Titus said.


That evening, the first two groups of the bracket concluded their matches with 16 trainers moving to the second round. Tomorrow the remaining two group will have their matches to see which 16 trainers will join the others.

As Ash and the group go to the Pokémon Center, someone intervenes. "Hey Ash!" They turn to see a familiar boy along with a girl standing next to him. "It's Jason, remember me?" Ash's head clicked, he met Jason and his girlfriend Eve when they came to Lumiose City a second time when they help Clemont take back the Lumiose Gym from Clembot.

"Oh yea, I remember you guys. How you guys been?" Ash asked. "We've been great, we're still going strong in our relationship." Eve smiled. "That's great, me and Ash have been together as well." Serena said. "Aww, you two are so cute together." Eve squeals. "Guess what Ash, I'm going to the second round as well." Jason spoke. "Oh yea, you said you were gonna compete in the Kalos League. Well who knows, maybe we'll face each other." Ash said. "I hope, facing you will be a true test." Jason hoped.

"Say guys, since we're here and going out. What do you say we have a double date. Just us couples?" Eve asked. "That would be perfect." Serena was happy to agree. "Yea, it's been awhile since me and Serena had a date." Ash said. "Great, I'll handle the reservation at this fine restaurant I know. We'll let you know when it'll take place." Eve said as the couple agreed. With that, the group finally departed to the Pokémon Center to rest for the evening.

Elsewhere in Geosenge Town

"Get everything loaded to the airship now!" Lysandre commands as everyone was hustling to move equipment and all they need to the airship. They were abandoning their base of operations for safety as no doubt it was a matter of time the International Police find this location. Plus the Kalos League started and they need to get to get moving to Lumiose City.

"Sir, we got trouble with the audio dampers." Aliana said. "Leave those! They won't serve a purpose on the airship." Lysandre orders. "Sir, it'll still take us days to get to Prism Tower and set up." Xerosic said. "No matter, once the Kalos League ends our moment to strike will commence. They may find out about us but at this point it'll be too late." Lysandre smirked once more at the thought of making his mark on history that'll forever shake the world.


Whew, yup this had to be the longest time I went without posting but I really overestimated this arc. I was simply going crazy planning this out all month that I was stuck in a six foot stump that I had to dig myself out of.

I'm sorry everyone, but I'm gonna save my notes for next time. I just hope this chapter is fulfilling to you all. This is Paradox signing off. Goodbye.