The air was heavy with tension as Gary and Professor Oak found a moment to talk amidst the bustling crowds and electrifying battles of the Vertress Conference. The young pokemon trainer was feeling a mix of emotions, ranging from disappointment in himself to a growing sense of maturity.

With a somber expression, Gary began, "Gramps, I'm sorry for being such an immature grandson all these years. I've given you a hard time and made a lot of mistakes. I promise to do better from now on."

Professor Oak's eyes softened as he looked at his grandson, a hint of pride in his gaze. "Gary, you've always made me proud. Even in your mistakes, you've shown remarkable determination and a never-give-up spirit. You've grown in many ways throughout your journey."

The weight of those words hit Gary deeply. To hear that he had always made his grandfather proud, despite the ups and downs of their relationship, was profoundly moving for him. His eyes glistened with unshed tears.

After a moment of silence, Professor Oak leaned in and asked, "So, what do you have planned now? Where will your journey take you?"

Gary took a deep breath, finding some measure of resolve. "Well, I've received an invitation from Professor Sycamore in Kalos. He wants me to study under him and become a researcher. It's an incredible opportunity, and I think it's time for me to explore a different path. I also want to give the Kalos Pokemon League a shot. Who knows, maybe the third time's the charm?"

Professor Oak nodded approvingly. "That sounds like a fantastic plan, Gary. Kalos is a region teeming with diverse pokemon and new discoveries. I have no doubt that you'll excel in your research there, just as you did in your battles. And remember, no matter where your journey takes you, I'll always be proud of you."

"By the way, where is Auntie Delia anyway? I would have expected her to give me a piece of her mind for treating her precious Ashy bad for so many years." Gary inquired.

Professor Oak smiles fondly. "She is receiving a family friend."

Back at the stadium, a more tranquil atmosphere surrounded Ash, Delia, Cilan, and Drayden as they welcomed Celeste, fresh from her exhausting publicity tour in Hoenn. Her vivacious spirit, however, remained untamed as she embraced the warm reunion.

Celeste's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she turned to Ash, her voice filled with jest, "Did you ever think I'd miss your finals at the Vertress Conference, Ashy?" Her playful tone revealed the genuine excitement she felt about his achievements. And then came the surprise. "Also, you would never guess who I met at the airport."

With a knowing smirk, Celeste moved to the side, revealing a young man with striking blond hair. The mere sight of him was enough to make Ash's heart race. His eyes widened in shock, and he could feel the unmistakable warmth of a blush creeping up his cheeks. "Gladion?!"

The beautiful smile on Gladion's face confirmed that it was indeed him. "Hi, Ash," he greeted with fondness, his tone warm and sincere. "Did you think I would miss the chance to see you win the Vertress Conference?"

The surprise and delight Ash felt at seeing Gladion here were immeasurable. They had shared a unique bond ever since their paths crossed during the Alola adventure. Now, Gladion's presence in Unova, especially for this important moment, stirred emotions within Ash that he struggled to put into words.

Ash's voice held a blend of gratitude and happiness as he replied, "I can't believe you're here, Gladion. It means a lot to me." In that moment everything seemed to fade away, Ash did not even realize that everyone else had stepped aside to give them some privacy.

Gladion's striking, enigmatic gaze bore into Ash's, and he spoke with a soft sincerity that reached deep within Ash's heart. "Ash," he began, "when my duties in Unova are done, I'd like to spend more time with you. My family back in Alola is eager to meet you. Especially, after all you did for Lillie and helping us find dad."

Ash was rendered almost speechless, his cheeks a rosy hue, his usually boundless energy temporarily replaced by a hint of shyness. The idea that Gladion not only wanted to spend time with him but also introduce him to his family felt like a dream come true. He had always felt a profound connection with Gladion, to realize that the feeling was mutual left Ash feeling breathless.

Barely able to contain his own emotions, Ash managed to smile warmly and nod, his voice soft but filled with the unspoken depth of his feelings. "Yeah, Gladion. I'd really like that." The simple acceptance held a wealth of unspoken emotions, a silent admission of the connection they had shared.

Gladion's eyes lit up with delight upon hearing Ash's response. He closed the distance between them, his movements filled with a graceful confidence that Ash had always admired. Their lips met in a chaste, tender kiss.

As Gladion and Ash shared that tender moment, in another corner of the room, Cilan was busily fulfilling his promise. Cilan, with his customary charm and a heart full of excitement, turned to Celeste. "You know, Celeste, we've shared so many adventures together, but there's one thing we haven't done yet: a proper date. So, I have a proposal for you. Would you go on a date with me?"

Celeste's heart raced, and she couldn't help but blush at the boy she had admired for years finally asking her out. With an enthusiastic nod and a radiant smile, she responded, "Cilan, I would love to go on a date with you."

Their eyes locked, as they leaned in, lips gently touching in a soft and affectionate kiss. It was a magical moment that sealed the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship. As they broke apart, reluctantly but with smiles on their faces, the reality of the day's events caught up with them.

Ash's final match in the Vertress Conference was about to begin, and they couldn't miss it. The excitement in the room was palpable, as they all rushed to their seats to prepare to witness the climactic finale of the conference.

The finals of the Vertress Conference had the entire stadium buzzing with excitement. The moment was finally here, the pinnacle of Ash's Unova journey. His opponent, Virgil, was a formidable Trainer, and everyone knew this battle would be nothing short of epic. As the referees raised their flags to signal the start of the match, Virgil called out his trusted partner, Eevee, a pokemon with incredible adaptability. On the other side of the battlefield, Ash released his powerful Kommo-o, Ares, a majestic Dragon and Fighting-type Pokemon.

Virgil's Eevee was small but full of determination. With a commanding voice, Virgil initiated the first move, "Eevee, Quick Attack, let's get the momentum in our favor!"

Eevee dashed forward with remarkable speed, a blur of brown fur. She was a swift maneuver, but Ash was well-prepared. He called out his orders confidently, "Ares, Iron Defense to absorb the impact!"

Ares braced himself for the incoming assault. As Eevee's Quick Attack struck, she met the sturdy defense of Ares. The collision of the moves created sparks, but Ares stood strong, using his Iron Defense to minimize the damage.

Ash seized the opportunity and shouted his next command, "Ares, Dragon Claw!"

With the grace of a dragon, Ares lunged forward, his claw glowing with draconic energy. Eevee, still reeling and at close distance from her Quick Attack, couldn't react in time. Ares' Dragon Claw struck with precision, sending Eevee tumbling backward.

"Eevee, are you okay?" Virgil called out to his pokemon, concern evident in his voice. Eevee struggled back to her feet, her determination unwavering. Virgil's face was a picture of steely resolve. "Eevee, don't give up! Use Swift!"

Eevee obeyed her Trainer's command and conjured a flurry of starry projectiles. The Swift attack was a powerful ranged move, and it rained down on Ares. The dragon-type pokemon endured the assault, taking some hits but remaining undeterred.

"Ares, Dragon Tail!" Ash shouted.

Ares responded swiftly, his tail glowing with energy. He swung it in a sweeping arc, striking Eevee with tremendous force. Eevee was sent spinning and, unable to regain its balance, collided with the ground. The impact was enough to knock Eevee out.

The crowd cheered as the referee announced, "Eevee is unable to battle! The first round goes to Ash and Ares!"

The momentum was in Ash's favor, and the battle was off to an intense start. But Virgil remained composed, knowing that Eevee had given her best. On the opposite side, Ash shared a determined look with his partner, ready to face the next challenge.

The battle between Ash and Virgil continued with an air of anticipation and excitement. Virgil recalled his defeated Eevee, thanking her for her unwavering determination, and then summoned his next choice, his Flareon.

Ash, undaunted, maintained his focus. "Ares, you're doing great. Let's keep this up!" Ares, the proud Kommo-o, gave a resolute nod, ready for the next challenge.

Virgil initiated the action, "Flareon, use Flamethrower!"

With an impressive burst of flames, Flareon unleashed a scorching Flamethrower attack. The blazing stream of fire raced toward Ares, who had been in the path of many fiery assaults throughout his battles.

However, Ash was well-aware of Flareon's power. "Ares, Dragon Claw!"

Ares moved with precision and swiftness, his claw charged with draconic energy. As the flaming tide of Flamethrower neared, he slashed forward, cutting through the flames with his Dragon Claw. The collision created an explosion of steam and embers, but Ares emerged unscathed.

The battle raged on as the crowd watched with bated breath. Ares had successfully cut through Flareon's Flamethrower attack, emerging unscathed, but now Flareon was pressing the advantage with its Quick Attack.

Ares quickly regained his composure. Ash's voice boomed across the battlefield, "Ares, use Dragon Tail!"

Quick as lightning, Ares swung his powerful, dragon-imbued tail. He lashed out with precision, trying to intercept Flareon's Quick Attack. The two moves collided with an explosive force, creating shockwaves that sent dust and debris scattering around them.

Flareon was pushed back, wincing from the powerful Dragon Tail. The fiery pokemon stumbled but managed to maintain his footing. It was clear that Ares and Ash had gained the upper hand in this exchange.

Virgil wasn't one to back down easily, and his command came swiftly, "Flareon, now use Fire Spin!"

Flareon's body ignited with flames as he spiraled toward Ares. The blazing vortex of Fire Spin closed in on the dragon, threatening to ensnare him in its fiery grip. Ares had little time to react. The fiery maelstrom of Fire Spin engulfed him, making Ares growl in pain. Ash grimaced as the fiery vortex roared around his pokemon.

Amid the intense flames and scorching winds of Fire Spin, Ares endured. Ash's unwavering trust in his pokemon was evident, and Ares showed incredible determination. The crowd watched in awe as the dragon withstood Flareon's fiery assault.

Virgil kept the pressure on. "Flareon, Quick Attack!"

Flareon rocketed forward, cloaked in incredible speed. Ares was not ready to receive the sudden dash, and before Ash could react, Flareon's Quick Attack landed a powerful blow.

"Ares, Headbutt!" Ash shouted, regaining control of the battle.

With determination in his eyes, Ares moved to meet the charging Flareon head-on. The two clashed with incredible force, creating shockwaves that resonated through the battlefield. Both pokemon were pushed back, but neither gave an inch.

The crowd roared as both Flareon and Ares showcased their resilience, and the referee confirmed, "It's a double knockout!"

Ash and Virgil exchanged determined glances, fully aware that this battle was far from over. The audience was treated to an electrifying display of strategy and power, and the trainers were in perfect sync with their pokemon, making each round a thrilling spectacle.

Virgil decided it was time to change tactics and recalled his brave Flareon. In its place, he summoned the graceful Glaceon, a master of ice-type moves. Glaceon's icy aura filled the arena, causing a notable drop in temperature. With Ares taking a well-deserved rest, Ash called forth his shiny Altaria, Nephele. Her cottony wings and golden scales sparkled in the stadium lights as she took her place on the battlefield.

Virgil knew he had to press for his advantage. "Glaceon, Ice Beam!"

Glaceon unleashed a piercing, icy-blue beam of energy. It struck Nephele, who shuddered as the freezing power coursed through her feathers. Ice-type moves were super effective against dragon-types, making this a critical advantage for Virgil.

Nephele, however, was far from done. Ash was determined to show the strength of their bond. "Nephele, use Solar Beam!"

Nephele absorbed the sunlight, her form radiating with a golden glow. She focused this energy into a brilliant Solar Beam. The attack surged towards Glaceon, who took the full brunt of the powerful move. Glaceon let out a pained cry, struggling to maintain his composure.

Virgil watched as Glaceon's strength waned, realizing that they had given their all. "Glaceon, give it everything you've got. Ice Beam once more!"

Despite its weakened state, Glaceon shot forth another Ice Beam. Nephele, however, was prepared. With remarkable agility, she evaded the attack, her movements as graceful as a dancer.

Ash seized the opportunity. "Nephele, Flamethrower, now!"

Nephele exhaled a searing torrent of flames. The intense heat consumed the Ice-type Pokemon. Glaceon struggled briefly in the searing inferno, his icy form practically melting under the onslaught of dragon fire.

The crowd watched in awe as Glaceon's resilience finally gave way, and he fainted under the immense power of Nephele's Flamethrower. Virgil sighed as he recalled his fallen pokemon. Of course, it would not have been so easy to defeat a dragon of Ash's. They were prepared to face off against something as insignificant as type-advantage.

Virgil's eyes landed on Nephele's beautiful cotton-like wings and suddenly an idea occurred to him. He called out his Vaporeon. Vaporeon was well-equipped to face Nephele, especially with the plan Virgil had in mind.

Virgil's command was quick and decisive. "Vaporeon, Water Gun!"

Vaporeon unleashed a powerful stream of water that struck Nephele's cottony wings with precision. The water clung to her feathers, saturating them and making her wings heavy and cumbersome.

Ash observed the situation, realizing that Vaporeon's strategy was to restrict Nephele's movements, thereby minimizing her aerial advantage. Ash winced as Nephele crashed to the ground, knowing that she would not be able to take back to the sky, given the dragon's wings were weighed down by dampness from the Water Gun.

"Nephele," Ash called out, his voice filled with determination, "use Sunny Day!"

Nephele began to shimmer with radiant energy, casting a brilliant Sunny Day over the battlefield. The harsh sunlight pierced through the cloudy stadium, its warmth evaporating the moisture that clung to Nephele's wings. The crowd cheered for Ash's ingenuity, understanding that he aimed to counteract Vaporeon's Water Gun.

Virgil, however, wasn't ready to concede. "Vaporeon, another Water Gun!"

Vaporeon let out another powerful stream of water. But Nephele was ready to respond, she might still be in her waterlogged state, but without the dampness in her wings she was able to hover over the ground. She might have narrowly avoided the Water Gun as it splashed harmlessly on the ground, but that was enough for Ash's second part of his strategy.

With the sunny weather in effect, Nephele had another advantage. "Nephele, Solar Beam!"

Nephele absorbed the radiant energy from the intense sunlight. Her body glowed brilliantly as she focused her power into a devastating Solar Beam. The beam of pure solar energy shot toward Vaporeon with incredible force. The super effective Solar Beam struck Vaporeon, enveloping him in a searing burst of energy. The Water-type Pokemon gave a valiant effort but couldn't withstand the tremendous power of Nephele's Sunny Day powered Solar Beam.

As Virgil's Vaporeon fainted under the fiery assault of Nephele's Solar Beam, the crowd roared with excitement. However, it was evident that the moisture on Nephele's wings made her less agile. Ash, recognizing the disadvantage that his Shiny Altaria faced in her current condition, withdrew Nephele and made a tactical substitution.

"Go, Astrape!" Ash called, releasing his Ampharos onto the battlefield. Astrape stood tall, her long neck arched elegantly, her Electric-type abilities surging through her body.

Virgil seized the opportunity to send out his Leafeon, a nimble Grass-type Pokemon that crackled with energy. As Leafeon took his place on the battlefield, the crowd could sense the anticipation in the air.

Astrape, with her stunning yellow and white coat, was a sight to behold. The moves at her disposal covered a wide range of situations, and she was ready to unleash her electrical power on Virgil's Leafeon.

Virgil, however, was prepared for this development. "Leafeon, Energy Ball!" he commanded.

Leafeon's green mane of leaves rustled as he prepared his signature Grass-type move. With an intense concentration of energy, he formed a sphere of lush, green power in front of his maw. The Energy Ball crackled with natural energy, ready to be launched.

Ash wasn't one to be outdone. "Astrape, Thunder Punch!"

Astrape's golden eyes sparked with electricity as she charged her hoof with electric energy. She lunged forward, the electricity intensifying, and aimed a powerful Thunder Punch at the incoming Energy Ball.

The two charged attacks collided in the center of the battlefield, creating a dazzling display of lights and energy. The impact sent shockwaves of power rippling through the stadium. The audience watched with bated breath as the struggle between electric and grass-type moves played out before them.

The clash continued for several heart-pounding moments, both Leafeon and Astrape pushing their powers to the limit. The intensity of the battle was electrifying, and the trainers' faces mirrored the fierce determination of their pokemon.

But the contest reached its peak, with both moves detonating simultaneously. The resulting explosion sent a shower of sparks and green energy in all directions, shrouding the battlefield in a blinding light. When the dust settled, both pokemon stood tall, although slightly fatigued. Both Leafeon and Astrape were showing the wear and tear of their high-stakes confrontation.

Ash's confidence remained unshaken. "Astrape, let's show them your power! Use Electric Terrain!"

Astrape responded with a resounding electric surge. Her entire body radiated with electric energy that extended to the ground. The battlefield transformed, becoming charged with intense electrical power. This newly created Electric Terrain would boost the power of Astrape's Electric-type moves, giving her an undeniable advantage.

Virgil had his own strategies. "Leafeon, use Synthesis!"

Leafeon's body began to glow with a soothing green light. He absorbed the power of the sun and the grassy terrain, gradually restoring his stamina. The energy-infused healing moved throughout his leaves, revitalizing Leafeon and partially countering the fatigue from the previous clash.

"Astrape, follow up with Thunderbolt!" Ash commanded.

Astrape wasted no time. She unleashed a potent bolt of lightning from her body, which streaked toward Leafeon with unstoppable force. The Electric Terrain added extra voltage to the attack, making it a formidable threat.

Virgil wasn't backing down. "Leafeon, dodge and counter with Energy Ball!"

Leafeon demonstrated incredible agility, evading the incoming Thunderbolt with a graceful leap. He then conjured another Energy Ball, even larger and more powerful than before. The grassy sphere crackled with energy as he prepared to strike back.

But Ash wasn't one to let up. "Astrape, use your speed! Quickly, dodge and then retaliate with Thunder Wave!"

Astrape displayed her agility, dodging the incoming Energy Ball in a nimble display of movement. She then released a series of electrical waves in response, which surged toward Leafeon in a web of crackling energy.

Leafeon was partially caught by the Thunder Wave, and he experienced a temporary paralysis, causing him to slow down. The speed advantage had shifted to Astrape's side.

The crowd was on the edge of their seats, gripped by the intensity of the battle. Ash and Virgil were locked in a fierce competition, their pokemon pushing themselves to the limits.

"Leafeon, you can do it! Focus!" Virgil encouraged his eeveelution. Leafeon struggled to shake off the paralysis, its determination shining through its eyes. Virgil and Leafeon had shown time and again that they could persevere through challenging situations.

Ash was aware of the risks involved in this high-stakes battle. "Astrape, let's finish this! Use your Zap Cannon!"

Astrape's golden eyes lit up with a brilliant gleam as she summoned a massive sphere of electrified power. The Zap Cannon crackled with potent electrical energy, promising an attack that could turn the tide of the battle.

Virgil knew that their teamwork was their greatest asset. "Leafeon, don't let it hit! Dodge and counter with Solar Beam!"

Leafeon made a valiant effort to move despite the lingering paralysis, nimbly dodging the formidable Zap Cannon. He then focused his energy, absorbing the sunlight for the Solar Beam attack.

The battlefield crackled with tension as both powerful moves were unleashed. The charging Solar Beam and the crackling Zap Cannon headed toward each other with overwhelming force, their collision creating a dazzling display of energy.

The explosion and shockwave from the impact resonated through the stadium, leaving everyone in awe of the sheer power of these two magnificent pokemon. The blast radiated with the colors of electric blue and solar gold. As the dust and energy particles settled, both pokemon were out of commission.

The battle was at a standstill.

The double knock out was obvious.

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, recognizing the incredible battle between these two formidable opponents. Both Ash and Virgil shared a smile as they returned their fainted pokemon.

As the dust settled from the previous intense round, it was clear that the crowd was in for a spectacular climax. Virgil sent out his trusty Espeon, a graceful Psychic-type Pokemon known for his powerful special attacks. As Ash, ready for the challenge, called upon his Charizard, Agni, a formidable Fire and Flying-type Pokemon that had a broad range of attacks at his disposal.

Virgil began with a determined look in his eyes. "Espeon, let's start with a Psyshock!"

Espeon's gem-like forehead glowed as he generated a pulsating orb of psychic energy. The orb grew rapidly and shot towards Agni with incredible speed.

Ash wasted no time in commanding Agni. "Agni, dodge and counter with Flamethrower!"

Agni's wings flapped with immense power as he soared upward, narrowly avoiding the Psyshock. He then unleashed a torrent of roaring flames from his mouth, sending a blistering Flamethrower attack right back at Espeon.

Virgil reacted quickly, "Espeon, use Light Screen!"

Espeon created a semitransparent, shimmering barrier of psychic energy to block the Flamethrower. The flames collided with the Light Screen, creating a dazzling display of fiery patterns against the barrier.

Ash knew that they needed to find an opening. "Agni, break through with Brick Break!"

One of Agni's fists glows bluish white, and he swung it with incredible force, shattering the Light Screen and sending it dissipating into the air. The powerful Brick Break attack advanced toward Espeon.

Virgil's response was swift. "Espeon, use Quick Attack to dodge!"

Espeon dashed to the side with remarkable agility, avoiding the oncoming Brick Break by a hair's breadth. It was a display of Espeon's speed and reflexes.

Ash recognized that this was a tough opponent. "Agni, cover the battlefield with Smokescreen!"

Agni exhaled a thick cloud of black smoke that rapidly filled the battlefield, creating a shroud of darkness and obscurity. Espeon's vision was obscured, leaving him unable to see clearly.

Virgil remained composed. "Espeon, use Psychic to disperse the Smokescreen!"

Espeon focused his psychic abilities on the swirling mass of black smoke, causing it to scatter in all directions. As the smoke cleared, both pokemon were revealed.

Ash didn't let up. "Now, Agni, use Flamethrower again!"

Agni unleashed another scorching Flamethrower, directed at Espeon. The powerful jet of fire surged towards Espeon, who braced himself for the impact.

Virgil, determined to protect his pokemon, shouted, "Espeon, use Protect!"

Espeon's body shimmered as he generated a bluish barrier that protected him. The Flamethrower struck the Protect, creating a dazzling explosion of flames and energy. Protect absorbed and diffused the fire, preventing any damage to Espeon.

"I am really starting to get pissed off!" Ash growled in synchrony with Agni. "Psychic-types are so bothersome!"

The crowd watched in awe at the incredible tactical display by both trainers and their pokemon. It was a battle of wits and strategy as much as it was a clash of strength and power. The referee watched closely, ready to declare the victor of this climactic round and the new champion of the Vertress Conference.

Ash and Virgil exchanged determined glances, their expressions reflecting their unwavering determination to win. The Vertress Conference had reached its pinnacle, and the grand finale was underway.

The battlefield was a spectacle of elemental power and tactical finesse. Ash and Agni faced off against Virgil and his Espeon in a battle of wills and strategy.

As Espeon's Protect dissipated into shimmering fragments, the Flamethrower surged forward. Espeon braced himself, and the fiery inferno engulfed him, creating a dazzling display of flames and energy. The audience gasped, believing this was the end. But Espeon's resolve was unbroken. With psychic concentration, he managed to mitigate the worst of the damage, protecting himself from a devastating blow. His fur was singed, and he bore the marks of the battle, but he remained on his feet.

Virgil seized the opportunity, "Espeon, Psyshock!"

Espeon's gem-like forehead shimmered, and he summoned another pulsating orb of psychic energy. This time, it was a Psyshock—a powerful psychic attack that targeted Agni's physical defense. The orb rocketed toward the Fire-type Pokemon with incredible force.

Ash knew they had to keep fighting. "Agni, Wing Attack to deflect it!"

Agni beat his wings with incredible strength, generating a powerful gust of wind. With precise timing, he struck the Psyshock, deflecting it from its course. The psychic attack spiraled off, dissipating into sparkles.

Virgil wasn't deterred. "Espeon, Quick Attack!"

Espeon demonstrated his agility, a bluish blur as he darted toward Agni. It was an unexpected move, catching Ash momentarily off guard. Before he could react, Espeon's Quick Attack landed a powerful blow on Agni. Agni staggered under the hit, but the flames in his eyes still burned with determination.

Ash rallied his Pokemon. "Agni, Sky Uppercut!"

Agni's fists ignited with fiery power as he leaped into the air, defying gravity. His uppercut was a blazing arc, aimed straight at Espeon.

Virgil wasn't about to back down. "Espeon, dodge it!"

With remarkable agility, Espeon contorted mid-air, avoiding the strike with incredible finesse. His Quick Attack had given him the perfect vantage point. The crowd watched, captivated, as Agni's fiery uppercut missed its target. The battle between these two formidable trainers had reached its zenith.

"Espeon, Psychic!"

Espeon descended gracefully, his gem-like forehead radiating with psychic energy. He unleashed a powerful Psychic attack, sending out a shockwave of energy toward Agni.

Ash's mind raced for a strategy. "Agni, use your Dragon Tail to deflect it!"

Agni's tail glowed with draconic power as he swung it with precision. The Dragon Tail met the oncoming Psychic attack, creating a clash of forces. The air quivered with energy as the two powerful moves collided, creating an explosion of sparks. Agni's determination and strength pushed the Psychic attack backward, resisting its psychic force.

Ash was resolute. "Now, Agni, seize this chance! Use Fire Blast!"

With a triumphant roar, Agni unleashed a ball of yellow-orange fire from his mouth. The ball of fire then turns into a 大-shaped flame that is fired at Espeon. The scorching Fire Blast surged past the faltering Psychic attack and the torrent of flames engulfed Espeon, whose energy was spent from the previous clash.

Espeon's silhouette was swallowed by the inferno, and the referee raised his flag. "Espeon is unable to battle! Charizard and Agni win!"

Virgil walked over to his Pokemon, his expression a mix of pride and appreciation. He patted Espeon, and his words were a testament to their connection. "You did your best, Espeon. We'll get stronger together."

The crowd erupted into a thunderous cheer. Ash had done it. He'd secured victory against a formidable opponent in Virgil, and the title of Vertress Conference champion was now his. The realization washed over Ash in a whirlwind of emotions. He stood on the battlefield, almost in a daze, trying to comprehend the momentous victory.

With a trembling hand, Ash accepted the championship trophy the official presented him with, a gleaming symbol of his hard-earned success. Ash's eyes shimmered with unshed tears of joy as he accepted the award. The magnitude of the moment hit him, and he couldn't help but smile, his heart swelling with pride and happiness.

Delia, Ash's ever-supportive mother, watched her son with watery eyes, her voice lost in the roar of the crowd. She clapped her hands together, beaming with maternal pride. Professor Oak and Drayden-sensei, who had watched Ash grow from an aspiring Trainer into a formidable one, exchanged knowing nods of approval.

Among the spectators, Celeste and Cilan, the two closest friends of Ash, cheered exuberantly. They shared a look of genuine happiness and pride for their friend's incredible achievement. The excitement in the stadium was electric, and they couldn't be more thrilled for Ash.

Gladion, Ash's unexpected but heartwarming surprise, will seize the opportunity the first moment Ash was out of the stage and momentarily alone. With a fond smile and a swift step, he closed the gap between them and, with a hint of mischievousness, planted a congratulatory kiss on Ash.

But that was for later, right now, amid the cheers and applause, Ash couldn't have imagined a more perfect moment. He looked around at the people who had been there for him throughout his journey, his expression a mix of joy, gratitude, and sheer amazement. This was a dream realized, a goal achieved, and Ash knew he'd earned it with unwavering dedication and the support of his friends, mentors, and newfound love.

As the ceremony continued, with cheers and celebrations filling the air, Ash stood tall, holding the trophy with a renewed sense of purpose. This was just the beginning of many adventures yet to come for him and his pokemon. The road ahead was still full of challenges, but Ash was ready to face them head-on, now as the Vertress Conference Champion.