Chapter 27: June vs. Trace Part 2
The Pokéballs burst open and unleashed their contents. Neither June nor Trace had actually announced who they were sending out so even they weren't to know who was going to be battling until the Pokémon appeared. June had chosen Ironhide and Trace had chosen Marowak. Both trainers recoiled slightly, neither one having expected those Pokémon to be coming out next. The audience murmured with interest.
"That's certainly an unusual match-up." Ruby thought aloud, "A Scizor against a Marowak. Once again, no type-advantages so we'll have to see who's stronger."
"If June decides to Mega Evolve that Scizor then she's got this." Hop declared, "Though I imagine our girl will likely save it for the climax."
"Possibly. She won't want to use it up too early." Sapphire agreed, "Not when it means she may lose the advantage to Trace."
"And she has one Pokémon less than he does so she needs to be very careful in this match." Emerald acknowledged, "If he can move an inch, he'll move a mile and June might not be able to stop him."
All eyes were on the metal-coated mantis and the bone-wielding skull-masked reptile as they prepared to battle. Trace looked very excited to be getting a chance to fight Ironhide.
"Looks like it's the very Pokémon that defeated Mewtwo!" he said eagerly, "I'm so gonna enjoy this! Marowak, use Bonemarang!"
Marowak tossed its bone through the air. The thick club spiralled towards Ironhide and walloped him in the head. Then it boomeranged back around and hit him again. His steel-coated body was tough enough to take the blow so he didn't take too much damage. Ground attacks only did normal damage anyway. Ironhide shrugged off the pain and retaliated by using Bullet Punch. His metal pincers lashed out in a flurry of punches, each one pummelling Marowak heavily with every hit. His pincers were nothing more than a blur as he rapidly punched his opponent. Marowak couldn't keep up and was knocked down as a result. Trace instinctively rubbed his own body as if he felt Marowak's pain. Ironhide's fast moving attacks and Technician ability did make him a heavy hitter and a tough opponent. But his Marowak had a surprise for Ironhide…
"This move may be to cover its weakness to Grass and Ice, but it'll come in handy against a Scizor! Use Fire Punch!" Trace commanded.
"Oh no, it knows a Fire attack!" June exclaimed.
Marowak's fist lit up with flames and the dinosaur like Pokémon charged towards Ironhide. It looked like an angry arsonist aiming to set fire to everything around it. Ironhide dodged the attack as Marowak punched but Marowak pivoted around on its feet and punched back at its opponent. Ironhide bent over backwards and just managed to avoid the punch. In retaliation, he sliced into Marowak with Fury Cutter. But Marowak expertly managed to parry and block the blows with its club. It was almost like watching two duellists in a sword fight. Eventually, Marowak was able to parry one of Ironhide's attacks so hard that he staggered to one side and couldn't block in time as Marowak finally hit him with Fire Punch. His double-weakness to fire left him feeling very hot and very weak as he was punched and blazed at the same time. His tough body was enough to at least take the hit for now, but he'd never survive another hit. June was tempted to return Ironhide for now but then she thought about what Trace's remaining Pokémon might be. Suppose he still had Charizard available? That wouldn't be any better for Ironhide to go up against! Maybe she could still at least soften Marowak up for her next Pokémon?
"Marowak's Fire Punch is certainly gonna be the decider here but we might still clinch a win here." June said hopefully, "Give us a Swords Dance and boost up your strength!"
Ironhide swiped at the air with his claws and spun around on the spot in a neat pirouette. Trace had suspected June would try that since she'd used that move against Janine and it had helped her in taking down her Venomoth in a single move. He had to keep up the pressure so Ironhide's Swords Dance wouldn't give him too much of an edge over Marowak. He ordered Marowak to use Bonemarang again, aiming to disrupt Swords Dance. The skull-masked Pokémon threw its club at Ironhide but all it did was ricochet away from him as he spun around and struck it with his claw. The club boomeranged back around and tried to hit Ironhide a second time but it still failed to hit him. After whacking it away a second time, Ironhide sent it spinning back towards Marowak, who simply caught it and prepared for an oncoming attack. Ironhide finished his Swords Dance and then launched himself at the Ground-type Pokémon with another Bullet Punch. The metal-coated mantis punched furiously at Marowak, his attack much stronger than before. Marowak tried to parry with its club but it wasn't fast enough to keep up with Ironhide. It was pummelled mercilessly by the punching metal pincers and it felt as if every blow was about to shatter its bones.
June's family cried out in excitement for her. This match was looking good so far! It seemed June had this made! Ironhide socked Marowak in the gut with one last Bullet Punch and launched it through the air. Marowak cried out but at the last minute, Trace ordered his Pokémon to use Bonemarang. Marowak managed to throw its club just before it could land down on the floor and the thick club spun straight into Ironhide again. Ironhide was stunned by the move so he wasn't able to react quickly enough to dodge it and was hit as a result. It came back around and hit him again and then returned to Marowak. The Bug/Steel Pokémon retaliated by using Fury Cutter next. He began lashing out furiously with his claws and cutting into Marowak. Marowak was able to put up a better defence as Fury Cutter wasn't as hard hitting as Bullet Punch but it still couldn't stop all the attacks from landing. Marowak then caught Ironhide off-guard by suddenly socking him in the gut with Thunder Punch. That was Marowak's defence against Water-types. Ironhide staggered backwards, more surprised than hurt by the punch. Then he winced as all of a sudden, paralysis grabbed hold of him and he was unable to move. Trace punched the air triumphantly. It was just what he'd hoped for.
Now Ironhide was temporarily immobile, Marowak followed up with Fire Punch. The skull-masked Pokémon punched Ironhide in the face and its flaming fist scorched him heavily. Ironhide cried out as he was burned and he was thrown down onto his back. He lay there and didn't get back up again. June put her hands to her mouth in shock. She was so close to winning but Marowak just managed to pull off a surprise last minute win! It wasn't looking good now. She only had two Pokémon left while Trace had four. But those last two would surely give her the edge she needed.
"That's a pity. I was hoping to see Mega Scizor again." Ruby said solemnly, "Ironhide definitely gave Marowak a tough battle at least."
"Trace may have more Pokémon left but June's remaining two haven't taken any damage or even battled yet." Hop observed, "I'd say they're still even for now."
"I wonder if June will Mega Evolve her Blastoise?" Ash wondered, "Given Ironhide's out, she'll have to use it on Leonardo instead."
"It would certainly help against Marowak." Misty agreed, "A Mega Blastoise would wipe it out instantly!"
"Perhaps, but I think my girl's going to use her last Pokémon first and save Mega Blastoise for last." Ruby theorized, "I'm willing to bet she's got Spyro the Dragonite left and she'll use him to turn the tide of this match…"
Tricia and her mother were naturally happy that Trace was holding his lead but they too were curious to see what June had left to use.
"Any ideas what Pokémon June might have left?" her mother asked.
"Aside from Blastoise? No idea. I know she owns an Onix, a Nidoqueen, a Dragonite, an Aerodactyl and a Pidgeot but which one she's chosen, I couldn't begin to guess." Tricia said with a shrug, "And that's what's making me excited to see what's next. What's my girl got for us now…?"
All eyes were on June as she returned Ironhide to his Pokéball.
"You fought so hard Ironhide. Well done to you for such a strong performance." June whispered.
She exchanged his ball for another. She would've brought Leonardo out next but Marowak's Thunder Punch made her hesitate. Her last Pokémon would be the better option in this match. It was hard to believe that she was down to her last two Pokémon already. This fight seemed to have gone by in a blur since it started!
"You're all I need to turn the tide in my favour!" June declared, "Spyro, this is your time to shine!"
She tossed the ball high up into the air and Spyro materialized out of it, flying in neat circles above everybody's heads. The audience oohed with admiration at the majestic sight of a powerful Pokémon like Spyro. Emerald was especially excited to see him on the field. Ruby just smiled, not even surprised her hunch was right in the end. She could see June's strategy now: Spyro was going to take out as much of Trace's team as possible and then a Mega Evolved Leonardo would be her final trump card. But would the plan work?
"Ugh…I was worried you'd bring Spyro to this battle." Trace said grimly, "I was nervous about the mere thought of battling against him!"
"Then I hope Spyro gives you a good battle!" June said eagerly, "I know I'm all fired up and ready to fight with him! Now Spyro, use Dragon Dance!"
It was just what Trace had expected. It was June's go-to-strategy when using Spyro after all. Spyro spun around through the air in an elegant twirl that boosted his Attack and Speed. Marowak tried to stop the dance with Bonemarang but like with Ironhide, it did no good. Spyro merely deflected the bone away both times it tried to hit him. The club returned to Marowak's hand and it threw it again in a vain attempt to try and hit Spyro. But Spyro deflected it again. June was tempted to tell Spyro to keep using Dragon Dance until his Attack and Speed were at max but she didn't want to leave him too vulnerable to an attack. She decided to see how he did with the one boost so far. Spyro finished his dance and he swooped straight down towards Marowak. He was so fast that Marowak only had time to register the fact he'd moved at all before Spyro spun on the spot and walloped it hard with Aqua Tail. Marowak was soaked by the blow and flung across the room. Spyro whooshed after it and just as Marowak was about to hit the floor, Spyro used Aqua Tail again to wallop it and send it hurling upwards into the ceiling. Marowak crashed straight into it and the dinosaur like Pokémon left a huge imprint where it had hit. June and Trace both winced, feeling how painful the impact of that hit looked.
Marowak peeled away from the ceiling and collapsed down onto the floor with a tremendous crash. Spyro twiddled his claws together, worried he'd been too rough with his opponent.
"Oh gosh, I didn't hurt him too much did I?" he asked.
June and Trace looked at Marowak. It lay on the floor and didn't move. The damage from Ironhide and Spyro had finally taken its toll and it was unable to battle. But Spyro didn't seem to have hurt it too badly at least. It even managed to open one eye and nod at Spyro as if to say "Hey…good match." The teens sighed with relief and Trace returned Marowak to its Pokéball.
"You've grown so much since the day I found you in Lavender Town. You're amazing Marowak." he said kindly, "You rest well buddy."
He put the ball away and picked out another one. He had half his team remaining which would hopefully allow him to take Spyro down through endurance. Even with Dragon Dance boosting his power, he wouldn't be able to last forever. He also had two Pokémon that were going in fresh so that might give him an edge.
"We've seen your Blastoise already, now let me show you mine!" the brunette boy cried.
He chucked the ball and out came his fifth Pokémon. June had hoped to see Trace's Blastoise in action again, especially as Leonardo would've been happy to know his brother had been here to battle as well. Blastoise balled its fists and let out a booming bellow that told Spyro it was ready for action. Spyro just glared in return, showing no signs of being intimidated.
"How about that? Trace has a Blastoise too." Sapphire said in surprise.
"I do remember June saying both she and Trace rescued a pair of Squirtle from Team Rocket and that they're brothers." Ruby murmured, "Heh, imagine if they were on the field right now."
"I wonder what Trace has in mind with Blastoise?" Emerald murmured, "Maybe his knows Ice Beam like June's does?"
"Likely little gem." Tony concurred, "It's the only explanation that makes any sense here."
"It'll be bad news for Spyro as Dragonite are double weak to Ice attacks but June likely has a counter for that." Ashley guessed.
"So really, either side could win." Hilda said thoughtfully, "I sure hope June can keep it up…"
June and Trace stared each other down for a moment, waiting to see who dared to make the first move.
"Let's make this quick. I don't want to give that Blastoise even the slightest inch to move." June declared, "Use Dragon Rush!"
Spyro surrounded himself with energy shaped like a dragon and he sped towards Blastoise, zooming like a bullet fired from a gun. Blastoise was much too slow to even attempt to block the attack and was slammed off its feet as Spyro ploughed into it. Blastoise collapsed onto its back and while it normally would've gotten stuck like that, Trace ordered Blastoise to spin around to get itself back on its feet. It withdrew into its shell and spun like a spinning top. It spun around so much that it was able to make itself airborne briefly and manoeuvre itself so it could get back onto its feet. Spyro was turning around and preparing to use another Dragon Rush. That was when Trace made his move.
"Use Blizzard!" he commanded.
June recoiled in shock. Blizzard was one of the strongest Ice-type attacks a Pokémon could learn! Blastoise held out its hands and all at once, a sudden blizzard of snow blew in from nowhere and swept over Spyro. The Dragonite cried out as he suddenly felt freezing cold and the chill of the snow bit into him. His Dragon Rush fizzled out and Blastoise was able to use its body to barge him away. Spyro crashed down onto the floor and skidded to a stop just by June's feet. He shivered furiously. Trace grinned with satisfaction.
"Just as planned." he said happily, "Blastoise needed coverage for Grass-types so I had to teach him an Ice attack and given yours knows Ice Beam, I wanted to go a step further and teach him an even stronger attack! That Blizzard has no doubt brought Spyro down for good!"
Everybody else was sure that was the case. Blizzard should've been a one-hit KO. But miraculously…it wasn't! Spyro was still conscious and he was picked himself up off the floor! He rubbed himself furiously and then spread his wings. He grinned smugly.
"Thought that could stop me?" he gloated.
"But…how?!" Trace cried, "Dragonite usually go down after a single Ice attack! My Blastoise took Lance's down with a single Blizzard so what gives?!"
"Oh I guess I should've told you." June answered, "Spyro's ability is Multiscale. When his health is at full, super-effective damage is reduced so he managed to just barely survive that Blizzard. It only works when his health is at full though so sadly, it only works once in a battle."
"His ability can do that? Aww! That's annoying yet cool at the same time!" Trace exclaimed, sounding simultaneously frustrated and impressed, "It must be useful being able to tank a super-effective hit because of that."
"It gave Spyro a fighting chance against Lorelei." June admitted, "Now hopefully it's going to help him win this fight! Use Dragon Rush again!" she ordered.
Spyro lowered his head and charged straight into Blastoise, again moving way too fast to be stopped. He ploughed into Blastoise again and sent it hurling backwards across the arena. Blastoise was almost wiped out by the attack. One more blow like that and it was all over! Trace ordered Blastoise to use Blizzard again but this time, June knew what to expect so she ordered Spyro to use Fire Blast. Spyro blew a huge blast of flames in the shape of a five-pointed Japanese character and the searing heat of Fire Blast was so intense that Blizzard melted instantly and fizzled out before it could get anywhere near Spyro. Blastoise withdrew into its shell and spun around furiously to blow away Fire Blast just as it was about to hit it. Then Trace followed up by commanding Blastoise to use Hydro Pump. Blastoise aimed its cannons and tried to blast its opponent with jets of water but Spyro flew through the air and manoeuvred his away around the water blasts. He was like a fighter jet dodging a missile strike from the ground. Blastoise kept up the pressure. With any luck, if it kept forcing Spyro to dodge then he'd never be able to get the chance to come in close and attack again.
But Spyro was able to get there in the end after a few minutes of dodging. He flew down close to the floor, moving too fast for Blastoise to catch with its blasting water cannons, and he sped across the floor, flying so close to it that a stream of dust was kicked up underneath him. Blastoise tried to aim its cannons at him but it was too slow and it was barged off its feet one more time by Dragon Rush. Spyro hit Blastoise with the force of a speeding truck, nearly knocking the poor Pokémon out of its shell with the impact. Blastoise crashed down onto its back and lay there. It tried to pick itself up but in the end, there was no chance of it carrying on the fight. It couldn't stand up again. It was too weak to battle any longer and so it stayed down and allowed itself to be ruled unfit to battle. Everybody exclaimed in a mixture of shock and applause for June's incredible win. It seemed Blastoise's Blizzard would've decided the match but nope, June still managed to win in the end!
"Oh yeah! That was amazing!" Satoshi exclaimed, "What a win cousin!"
"That Blastoise never stood a chance! You had it in the bag!" Shigeru hollered.
"It sure looked close but luckily Spyro's Multiscale ability saved him in the end and helped him win!" Ash cried in amazement, "June's Pokémon really are tough to beat!"
"Pika-chu!" his Pikachu agreed.
"I reckon she could give me a good fight…" Ruby murmured to herself.
The idea had merit. Maybe sometime in the future she'd arrange such a contest for herself and her daughter. Back on the field, Trace returned his Blastoise to its Pokéball. He was clearly disappointed but he didn't take it out on his Pokémon.
"It's OK Blastoise. You were so close. We were just unlucky is all. But you did great buddy." he said kindly.
He put the ball away and tossed out another one. He'd decided to bring his Pidgeot back into the battle. June suspected he wanted to keep his last Pokémon back for now and hopefully use it to take down Spyro later and so Pidgeot was up to try and do some damage beforehand. She'd try and make sure that didn't happen.
"Trace's Pidgeot likes to fight from a distance, so we'll bring the fight up to it!" June declared, "Use Dragon Dance for another boost!"
Spyro spun around once more to give himself a second boost in his attack and speed. June wanted him to be as powered up as possible by the time Trace's last Pokémon came out as there was a big chance he'd need it. As Spyro Dragon Danced, Pidgeot took the opportunity to attack and hopefully disrupt the process. It used Air Slash but unfortunately, it did nothing to Spyro and he carried on going. Seeing no other option, Trace decided to order Pidgeot to use Quick Attack. The bird Pokémon charged straight into Spyro and speared him in the gut with its beak. Quick Attack did the job and Spyro was knocked out of Dragon Dance. But it had been too late and he still got his power and speed boost. June didn't risk doing it again as Pidgeot would only disrupt it with Quick Attack again. It was better to just go on the offensive. Spyro opened his mouth and launched a mighty Fire Blast at Pidgeot. The sizzling blast neatly hit the Flying/Normal Pokémon but Pidgeot banked to the side and dodged it at the last second. It then rushed towards Spyro with another Quick Attack but Spyro was too fast. The two chased each other around the arena for a minute until eventually, Pidgeot turned around and used Air Slash to hit Spyro and slow him down. Spyro just shrugged off the blows and chased Pidgeot down with Dragon Rush.
He closed in quickly, ready to mow Pidgeot down out of the sky but then suddenly, Trace commanded Pidgeot to use Mirror Move. Pidgeot focused its gaze on Spyro for a second and then incredibly, it copied his move! Dragon shaped energy surrounded its body and it charged into Spyro with Dragon Rush too! Both attacks collided with one another but even at that, it was clear that Spyro won the clash due to his boosted attack power. At the same time, Pidgeot had managed to do some damage at least due to Spyro being weak to his own type. June was impressed with her friend. Trace continued to surprise her! Spyro remained airborne but Pidgeot had fallen to the floor and was looking very weak for the moment. Surely it couldn't fight on any longer? The bird like Pokémon struggled heavily but impressively, it managed to get back to its feet again. It spread out its wings and squawked furiously. Satisfied, Trace ordered Pidgeot to use Air Slash once again. Pidgeot swiped at the air but Spyro dodged its blades of air with ease. June was about to call another Dragon Rush but decided against it. Pidgeot would only copy it with Mirror Move. So instead, she ordered Spyro to use Fire Blast. Pidgeot copied with Mirror Move and blasted back at Spyro with Fire Blast. It looked very unusual seeing a Pidgeot use a Fire attack!
Both Fire Blasts collided together and cancelled each other out. Pidgeot followed up with Quick Attack and charged straight into Spyro. It used Air Slash next but Spyro took the blows and swiped at Pidgeot with Aqua Tail. Pidgeot tried to copy with Mirror Move but its own tail couldn't hope to match up against a Dragonite's. Its tail barely put up any effort as their attacks collided and splashed water everywhere. Pidgeot was knocked down effortlessly to the floor and now it was down, Spyro followed up by using Dragon Rush. Pidgeot was too worn out to use Mirror Move and thus Spyro was safe to land his attack. He crashed down on Pidgeot and knocked it out instantly. Spyro flew away and took his position up in front of June again, feeling very pleased with himself. The audience was impressed with how well Trace's Pidgeot had held its own out there, even if the match was clearly June's to win.
"And just with a couple of Dragon Dances, Spyro has put June in the lead." Ruby said happily, "He's just mowing through the competition! Trace is down to his last Pokémon already!"
"It goes to show that having more Pokémon left doesn't guarantee you'll win." Hop noted, "Now Trace will have to hope his last Pokémon can change the course of the battle or else his Champion days are over already."
"Just when it seemed my brother had this in the bag, June comes back on top." Tricia said observantly, "That girl never ceases to amaze me. No wonder she was the one who beat Mewtwo in the end…"
She stared admiringly at her love. She couldn't have found a better person to be her girlfriend. June noticed Tricia looking at her and she waved back in response. Trace returned Pidgeot to its Pokéball.
"It was worth a shot and you gave it your all. You're as much an ace as June's Pidgeot." Trace complimented.
He looked back to his friend as he drew out his last Pokéball.
"And so here I am…my last Pokémon. And let me tell you, I was always planning to save this one for last." Trace announced, "Jolteon may be my first Pokémon, but THIS is my true ace-in-the-hole!"
He threw his Pokéball and out came his mighty Charizard. June wasn't surprised in the slightest that was his last Pokémon. Charizard had been one of Trace's most consistently strong Pokémon so why wouldn't he have it in his Champion defence team? But she was sure there was more to it than just that.
"Alright, he's got a Charizard!" Ash cried excitedly, "I'm so gonna enjoy this battle!"
"Why doesn't that surprise me Ash Ketchum?" Misty snorted.
"We know from experience with Ruby's Charizard that they're very strong Pokémon so Trace has a good final Pokémon." Sapphire said thoughtfully, "But is it enough to handle a Dragonite?"
"It might be hon. Look at its tail." Ashley pointed out.
The audience peered down and saw something unusual. Trace's Charizard had a ring around its tail…and it contained a Mega Stone!
"I knew it!" Ruby exclaimed, "Trace can use Mega Evolution too!"
"No doubt that was the plan all along, to save Mega Charizard for last." Tony murmured.
"Question is which one will he use? X or Y?" Emerald noted, "There's two different ones to use."
"Just watch. I think my bro's about to use it." Tricia replied.
Trace held up his left hand and for the first time, June finally noticed the Key Stone he was wearing in a bracelet around his wrist. The whole time, Trace hadn't been showing his left hand much so she hadn't seen it until now. It was obvious that he'd paid a visit to Gary before coming here and had decided to follow her example. Trace touched the Key Stone and it began to glow.
"This is where it all ends June. My Champion reign is NOT gonna end here!" Trace declared, "Charizard, it's time to unlock your full potential! MEGA EVOLVE!"
He thrust his hand up into the air and a ball of light surrounded his fist. Charizard's Mega Stone glowed too and all at once, Charizard began to change. Its skin turned black, the inside of its wings turned blue, the flame on its tail tip turned blue and it grew spikes on its shoulders. Trace was using Mega Charizard X, the Fire/Dragon type that was more physical in its fighting style. It was also famously used by Alain, a very powerful trainer from the Kalos region. June stared with awe and wonder. Mega Charizard X was quite simply the most incredible Pokémon she'd ever seen.
"I LOVE Mega Charizard X! It always looks so cool!" June squealed excitedly, "And here I am getting to fight one! You're really giving me the time of my life Trace!"
"It's the least I can do for what a great friend and opponent you've been." Trace said kindly, "Now let's show what Charizard can do in this form! Use Outrage!"
Mega Charizard coated itself in draconian energy and stampeded towards Spyro like a runaway train. Spyro dodged the attack for he was still boosted up from Dragon Dance and he charged towards Mega Charizard with Dragon Rush. Both Pokémon charged straight into each other and the resulting collision created an explosion of energy that threw each other backwards. It seemed despite Spyro's earlier Attack boost, the attacks had been evenly matched and it was only because Spyro had taken damage already as to why he seemed more effected by the impact than Mega Charizard. Spyro shook his head and charged again with Dragon Rush while Mega Charizard was still using Outrage. Both Pokémon collided again but this time, Mega Charizard won the tussle. Spyro was overpowered and thrown backwards by the blow. He crashed down and skidded to a painful stop just in front of June. Mega Charizard was stopped for the moment as the side-effect of Outrage kicked in. It became confused but that didn't last long for it suddenly slammed its head down on the ground and regained its focus. It glared back at Spyro, ready to fight again. Trace had been clever enough to teach Mega Charizard to overcome that pesky side-effect, something that impressed everyone in the audience. Tricia and her mother just smirked. They knew he could do that already.
"Wow it's strong!" June exclaimed, "I know it's Mega Evolved but Spyro's Dragon Dances should still give him the edge!"
"If he was still a Charizard than Spyro would've won easily!" Trace agreed, "But as Mega Charizard X, he gains the Tough Claws ability. His moves that make direct contact gain a power boost as a result of this ability!"
"Wow, so it's like Ironhide's Technician ability but for physical moves!" June yelled in amazement, "No wonder his Outrage is hitting us so hard!"
"And thus his Outrage is the same kind of power as Spyro's Dragon Rush right now." Trace said proudly, "But the difference here is that Spyro's getting tired from having fought three Pokémon previously while Mega Charizard is fighting fresh. And that's gonna make all the different in this match!"
June believed Trace was right. Spyro was looking pretty worn out for now. Even if he used another Dragon Dance it might not help. So the best thing to do for now was just keep up the pressure and hopefully weaken Mega Charizard so Leonardo could finish it off.
"Let's make this count Spyro!" June declared, "Use Aqua Tail!"
Spyro flew up off the floor and charged towards Mega Charizard. He walloped it in the face with Aqua Tail but unfortunately, it wasn't a super-effective hit as Charizard lost its weakness to Water attacks in its Mega Charizard X form. It stumbled to the side and Spyro spun around to wallop it a second time. Aqua Tail struck but Mega Charizard retaliated by socking its opponent in the gut with Thunder Punch. Spyro reeled backwards from the electrifying punch. Mega Charizard lashed out with its tail but Spyro dodged and kicked out at it. Mega Charizard blocked the kick with its wing and swiped Spyro aside. Spyro then flew back up towards the ceiling and charged down towards his opponent with another Dragon Rush. Mega Charizard X catapulted itself up towards Spyro with Outrage. The gap rapidly closed between them and almighty collision rippled through the stadium. The audience shielded themselves and June and Trace had to look away as clouds of dust blanketed them all.
For a moment, nobody could see a thing. Eventually, the dust cleared and the winner was made apparent. Mega Charizard was still standing. Spyro was not. The Dragonite had finally reached the end of his stamina and he wasn't able to fight anymore. He glanced apologetically at June before he closed his eyes and fell into unconsciousness. Now the teens were even again. Just one Pokémon left each. It was all down to their last Pokémon to decide this outcome. June returned Spyro and smiled kindly at his ball.
"You were absolutely incredible and you've done amazing work for me Spyro. Thank you so much." she complimented.
She looked to Ray.
"Well…this is it buddy. My last Pokémon. Let's hope Leonardo will be enough to win it for us." she said anxiously.
"He can do it June. I know it and you know it. We won't lose this!" Ray declared.
"If only I could feel as confident as you." June joked.
She took out Leonardo's Pokéball.
"OK Leonardo, this is your time to shine! We're counting on YOU!"
She tossed the ball and Leonardo burst out of it. The large Blastoise balled his fists and glared at his opponent. Mega Charizard glared back.
"Heh, a Charizard vs. a Blastoise. How very traditional." Ruby joked.
"It's like me and Gary are battling it out again with our Charizard and Blastoise!" Ash cried, "Difference is theirs are Mega Evolved so it's gonna be quite a clash!"
"June will need Mega Evolution if she's gonna win this one." Hop murmured.
June seemed to agree with him for she held up the glove that contained her Key Stone and held her fingers over it. She'd planned from the start that at least one Mega Evolved Pokémon would be her final trump card against Ace and as Ironhide wasn't available, it had to be Leonardo. Leonardo had his Blastoisite Mega Stone set in an ankle bracelet he wore around his right ankle. Trace didn't notice it when he'd been fighting Pidgeot earlier but he saw it now as June activated her Key Stone. A bright flash of yellow surrounded her hand and Leonardo was surrounded by the same light.
"Key Stone, reveal the true power our bond together has created. Unleash your true potential! MEGA EVOLVE!" June chanted.
"COWABUNGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Leonardo screamed as the transformation began.
He began to change in shape as he transformed into his Mega Evolved form. He became much larger, his shell changed in shape and he ended up sporting not two cannons, but three. He had two smaller ones on shells around his arms and a larger one protruding from the shell on his back and pointing over his head. It was as if he'd become some bizarre hybrid of an army vehicle and a tortoise. Everybody thought he looked incredible and they cheered for Leonardo.
"Aw yeah, now this is what I'm talking about!" he cried excitedly, "Look at my artillery! I've got even more weaponry now!"
"You sure have, and like Trace's Mega Charizard, you have a new ability to make use of!" June noted, "You've heard of Mega Launcher, haven't you?"
"Sure have." Trace confirmed, "I can Mega Evolve my own Blastoise so I know what Mega Launcher does. It powers up aura and pulse based attacks so that Dark Pulse is really gonna pack a punch!"
"It sure will!" June said excitedly.
Mega Leonardo and Mega Charizard stared each other down and prepared for the final battle. It was all down to them now. Only one would emerge victorious in this round. June inhaled and exhaled for a moment. Then she smiled at Trace.
"You know Trace, I couldn't be happier that you're my final opponent." she said kindly, "You've been such a kind and supportive friend to me on this journey and I'm glad I could share it with you."
Tricia and her mother smiled with awe. Trace just smiled modestly.
"Don't sweat it June! I feel just the same!" Trace said casually, "Though I really must thank you for everything you've done for me on our journey. You've been just as supportive to me as I have to you and you've been the biggest help to me of anyone I've ever known. You see, you and your family came here to Kanto and thanks to you, your mother, your father and Ash…my life's been able to pick itself up again! My mom's got her Kangaskhan back, she's happy again, we're not poor anymore…and I got my sister back! So before we finish this fight, I just wanna thank you and your family for all the awesome things you've done for us since coming here! You've really saved my family from a life of poverty and sadness and I don't know what else I can say at this point."
June held her hands together and smiled with awe. Ruby and Hop shared her expression. It was nice to hear the amount of gratitude Trace had for them and what they'd done for his family.
"That was…beautiful. Thank you so much Trace, and you're welcome for everything." June said appreciatively.
"No prob June. It's been a blast with you, but I'm afraid we have to end this journey." Trace said, his face becoming serious again, "You ready for the epic conclusion?"
"I've never been more ready for anything in my life!" June declared excitedly, "Let's make this one for the ages! Leonardo, use Water Pulse!"
Mega Leonardo aimed all three of his cannons at Mega Charizard and blasted it with Water Pulse. Coming from Mega Leonardo, the normally weak water attack was much stronger than before, especially with his Mega Launcher ability making it even more powerful. Mega Charizard was no longer weak to water but the attack was still enough to do a lot of damage. It reeled back from the blow, feeling as if it was going to be blown off its feet. It shook off the attack and took flight with a flap of its wings. It charged towards Mega Leonardo with its hand raised and ready for a powerful Thunder Punch. But as Mega Charizard closed in, Leonardo took aim and fired again, this time using Dark Pulse. The beam of black energy slammed into Mega Charizard, disrupting its charge and keeping Thunder Punch away. Mega Charizard landed back on the floor and recoiled in fright. It had flinched so Mega Leonardo was free to use another Water Pulse. He scored a direct hit and Mega Charizard was sent reeling backwards. Mega Leonardo's Mega Launcher boosted moves were really dealing a lot of punishment to the Fire/Dragon Pokémon!
Mega Charizard panted but it recovered its strength and charged back into the action with Outrage. It zoomed in towards Mega Leonardo, moving way too fast for him to block the attack. Mega Leonardo crossed his arms in front of his face but it hardly helped and he was sent skidding backwards as Mega Charizard rammed into him. He came dangerously close to toppling over but he kept his footing. He fired another Water Pulse but Mega Charizard broke through it effortlessly as it came round with a second Outrage. It struck again and Mega Leonardo grunted from the full force of its opponent's body slamming into him. Mega Charizard performed a U-turn and came back round for one last attack. It homed in towards Mega Leonardo, coming in fast and ready to attack. But then June had an idea. She ordered Mega Leonardo to use Flash Cannon on the floor. He aimed his arm cannons down and blasted himself into the air with Flash Cannon. Mega Charizard missed him completely and crashed down into the floor, leaving a huge crater in it and causing damage to itself. Mega Leonardo landed back down and he spun on the balls of his feet to face Mega Charizard. He fired another Water Pulse and soaked Mega Charizard. It was dazed from crashing into the floor and didn't seem to know which way was up for now. But it snapped itself out of confusion by slamming its head on the floor again.
Its senses regained, Mega Charizard spun around and walloped Mega Leonardo with its tail. Mega Leonardo took the hit and punched back. Both Pokémon broke into an all-out slug-fest for the moment with both punching each other over and over to try and weaken each other. Both opponents hit each other several times but neither side was gaining an edge. Eventually, Mega Charizard broke the stalemate by using Thunder Punch. It uppercut Leonardo in the face with a punch that electrocuted him at the same time. Mega Leonardo reeled back in total agony and that was enough for Mega Charizard to suddenly lash out and trip him up with a tail whack to the legs. He crashed down onto his back, pain flaring through his shell. Seeing its chance, Mega Charizard pounded Mega Leonardo with another Thunder Punch. The tortoise Pokémon howled in pain as he was punched and electrocuted simultaneously. June felt very worried. How long could he deal with this kind of punishment? Mega Charizard drew its hand back and prepared to punch one last time but at the last minute, Mega Leonardo aimed with one of his arm cannons and shot it with Dark Pulse. Mega Charizard grunted and stumbled back, more surprised than hurt. Mega Leonardo pushed himself back onto his feet and barged into Mega Charizard with a shoulder ram. Then he shot it once more with Water Pulse, blowing it off its feet. It crashed down onto its back but the black and blue dragon Pokémon still wasn't finished yet. It pushed itself back onto his feet once more and roared furiously.
"We can do this Mega Charizard!" Trace shouted encouragingly, "Come on, let's put everything we got into one last attack! One more Outrage!"
"We've got this made! Let's wrap it up with our final assault!" June screamed confidently, "Finish it off with one last Water Pulse!"
Both Mega Leonardo and Mega Charizard let out thunderous roars that echoed all around the arena. The audience clutched their seats. They could feel the tension in the arena even if it wasn't them who were battling right now! Mega Charizard surrounded itself with draconian energy and Mega Leonardo build up a powerful Water Pulse with all three of its cannons aiming straight ahead. The arena seemed to shake in anticipation. Mega Charizard flapped its wings and charged towards its opponent. Mega Leonardo sprinted as best as he could, his cannons trained on Mega Charizard. They jumped towards each other, looking as if they were about to have a head-on collision. Then they launched their attacks. Outrage and Water Pulse collided and pushed hard against each other. Both opponents were trying their best to win the struggle, straining hard to keep it up. Water Pulse and Outrage pushed and pushed. It was like both opponents were trying to break through an invisible wall between them. June and Trace cheered for their Pokémon as did their families in the audience. Eventually, the stalemate was broken and the colliding attacks broke apart. Mega Leonardo and Mega Charizard were thrown backwards and they crashed down heavily onto the arena floor. Clouds of dust swept over the arena and everyone had to look away for the moment.
A tense silence followed the epic clash. The dust died down and both Mega Leonardo and Mega Charizard were visible again. They were panting heavily, feeling exhausted from their intense battle. Mega Leonardo stumbled and for a moment, June felt her heart stop. No! She couldn't lose now! But Mega Leonardo only fell to one knee. He wasn't passing out. Mega Charizard staggered briefly. Trace's head poured with sweat. He wasn't going to take the fall, was he?! The audience held their breath.
An eternity seemed to pass…but eventually, one Pokémon fell. One remained standing. A chorus of gasps filled the arena as the final result settled in. The battle was over and the winner had been determined at last! The scoreboard flashed with the winner's face onscreen and their winning team of Pokémon. Kanto had its Champion, but…
"I did it? I…I won? I really, really won? I'm the new Champion?!" June exclaimed, putting her hands to her mouth in amazement.
"You better believe it June! Look! Leo's still standing!" Ray announced, pointing at the arena, "That means you win!"
It was true. Mega Charizard had passed out but Mega Leonardo was still standing. Both Pokémon had returned to normal but the result remained the same. It was official, Trace's reign as Champion was already over and June was now the new Champion! The Silverlock family exploded with joy.
"OH MY GOD, YOU DID IT! YOU WON! CONGRATULATIONS JUNE!" Ruby screamed at the top of her voice. Her eyes were streaming with tears of joy.
"That's my girl! You were incredible out there! Well done my girl!" Hop shouted.
"I don't believe it! I DON'T BELIEVE IT! We have another Champion in the Silverlock family!" Emerald screeched, clutching Tony with joy.
"You better believe it little gem because the proof is down there in front of us!" Tony cried, "This is amazing!"
"I couldn't be prouder of my little niece! You deserved that win June!" Sapphire cheered.
"What a win June! Ya earned that Champion title!" Ashley cried.
"Congratulations June!" Satoshi, Shigeru and Hila screamed in unison.
"First our daughter, now our granddaughter becomes a Champion! I'm so overwhelmed with joy that I can't even describe it!" Annie sobbed with joy.
"Neither can I my dear. She really did it just like her mother before her…" Michael whispered with awe.
"Alright, she did it! Wow, I can't believe it but she did it!" Ash cried.
"And what a victory it was!" Misty shrieked, "Now we have a new Champion!"
"Meh, I wish Trace won." Rachel muttered.
"Shut up sis, just be happy for June! She deserved it!" Eric retorted.
"Yay June! You won!" Veronica cheered.
"It's a shame my son had to lose his title already, but June fought her heart out there. I'm so proud of them both!" Trace's mother said happily, "What a fine battle!"
"Yes…the finest battle ever!" Tricia agreed, her eyes streaming with tears of joy, "Trace…June…you're both winners to me!"
Trace wasn't sure how he felt at the moment. On the one hand, he'd lost his title so soon after claiming it. And yet…he didn't feel sad about it? Was he frustrated? Perhaps. But was he happy that at least his best friend had been the one to beat him? Definitely! He also began to feel that June deserved the title more than he did. It was June and her family who had stopped Team Rocket in the end and she had fought against a controlled Mewtwo to stop Giovanni for good. How could he ever hope to compare to that? June deserved to be the Champion more than him. He returned Charizard to its Pokéball. He smiled softly.
"Well…if anyone deserved to beat us, it was June." he acknowledged, "We lost only to the best and there's no shame in that."
He watched as June picked Ray up and spun around with the Pikachu in her arms. Leonardo came over and hugged them both.
"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! OHMIGOSH, I REALLY DID IT! I WON!" June screeched at the top of her voice, "I can't believe this is really happening! Oh this is the best day of my life! I'm so happy!"
She hugged her Pokémon with delight. Trace let her have her moment to celebrate before he came up to her and held out his hand.
"That was the best battle I've ever had." he proclaimed, "And it's all thanks to you being the best friend and opponent I could ask for! Congratulations June!"
"Oh thank you so much!" June replied graciously, "I'm sorry your reign had to be so short-lived." she added apologetically.
"Don't be. You won fair and square." Trace said casually, "And besides, I think we can both agree you deserve it more than me. I hope you'll be Kanto's Champion for a very long time."
"I'll be defending it just like mum defends her title!" June declared, "And hey, I'm open for a rematch in the future."
"I am too!" Trace said eagerly, "I can't wait for that!"
The two shook hands and embraced. Neither one could've been happier with the battle they'd just had and how they'd truly given it their all. All at once, June found herself swamped with praise and congratulations from her family as they came down from the audience to celebrate her victory. Tricia even jumped down and ran over to hug both Trace and June in congratulations. For June, she kissed her on the lips with delight. June returned the kiss. Minutes later, the Elite Four came into the room to congratulate June and they handed her a huge golden trophy. June took it and held it up high for everyone to see. There it was, the symbol of her grand victory here today.
June Silverlock, trainer from Galar now stood proud and triumphant as June Silverlock: Champion of Kanto!
With the excitement of June's win now over, the Silverlock family returned back to Ruby and Hop's holiday house so June could have a well-earned rest after her hard-earned victory. Trace, Tricia and their mother went home themselves to give June time to relax and Trace wanted to have a rest too. Once the family made it to the house, June went straight up to her bedroom and flopped down on the bed. She hadn't felt this exhausted since the battle against Giovanni and Mewtwo. But before she went to sleep, she got out her sketchbook and began to draw. She wanted her own way to capture this moment in time without a camera taking any photos. She drew a picture of herself, Ray, Leonardo, Ironhide, Cinder, Spyro and Paige all together with June holding her trophy. It was the most appropriate image she could draw in relation to her big win for it was her and these six Pokémon that had done it. She couldn't wait to share the news with Victoria, Behemoth, Ace and Divebomb later on.
After drawing the picture, June closed her eyes and drifted off into a much needed nap to recover from such an exhausting day of battling. She'd beaten the Elite Four and Trace all in one day! It was amazing she'd managed it in the end but she felt no less proud of herself for pulling it off. As she slept, she dreamed about her experiences in Kanto and how she'd managed to train her own team of Pokémon and become the Champion. The best part was how it ended of course, being rewarded with a kiss from Tricia.
She was woken later on for dinner. Ruby had decided to just order pizza for everybody. June still felt tired but she wasn't going to miss a pizza dinner. She joined everyone and tucked in. As they ate, Ruby called for a toast to be held. She held up her glass of cola.
"I call a toast for my amazing daughter and her incredible achievement today." Ruby announced, "To June, Champion of Kanto! And long may she reign as I have in Galar."
"To June!" the family chorused.
June just smiled weakly and waved back. She didn't like being the centre of attention like this but it was for a good reason.
"Th-thank you everyone." June said shyly, "And really, I owe it all to you for my victory today. Your support for me has been more helpful to me than you'll ever realize. You all had faith in me from the beginning and supported me in my decision to become a trainer. You gave me the motivation to get out there and give it a go, and for that I thank you all for your love and support. You've been the best, every one of you!"
The family awed in appreciation.
"You don't ever need to thank us for being your loving supporting family dear." Annie said warmly, "That's what being a family is all about."
"And we'll continue to support you as you carry out your Champion reign." Michael insisted.
"What will you do now you're Champion?" Satoshi asked.
"You're…not leaving us are you?" Shigeru asked, his eyes wide with worry.
"No, of course not! I'd never leave any of you!" June cried, incredulous that her cousin would even ask that, "I guess I'll have to move out of Galar and live here in Kanto from now on but I won't stay here forever. I'll come back of course! I could never stay away, I love Galar too much to leave it permanently."
"You could always leave your Champion duties to Trace and the Elite Four whenever you come home." Sapphire suggested, "Nobody said it has to be you all the time. Ruby always left Galar in other people's hands if she ventured outside the region."
"But she'll want to stay close to Tricia." Emerald noted, "Remember, they're girlfriends now and I bet June will want to be with her as often as she can."
"Of course Auntie Emerald!" June confirmed, "I wouldn't want to leave her behind either. But overall, I may have to live in Kanto from now on but I won't be gone forever. I'll always come back and spend time with you all. In fact, I want to come home by the end of this holiday and enjoy a break home with you all."
"We'll be happy to fly you back to Galar first thing tomorrow sweetheart." Ruby said kindly, "We can enjoy the rest of your post-Champion celebrations back home."
"And we can prepare another kind of celebration." Hop added.
"Oh? What is it?" June asked curiously.
"It's one reason why I've gathered everyone here right now." Ruby said smoothly.
The family all stared at the silver-haired woman with interest. Ruby allowed the silence to hang in the air for a minute. Then she placed a hand over her stomach.
"Ladies and gentleman…we're going to be adding a new member to our family sometime soon." she announced.
"We're going to be parents all over again!" Hop said excitedly.
The shock of the news hit everyone so hard that for a moment, it was almost like they'd forgotten how to breathe for a minute. June was the first to respond.
"You mean…I…I'm going to have a brother or a sister?!" she shrieked, her voice full of excitement.
"Absolutely darling." Ruby said, sharing her daughter's excitement.
"OHMIGOSH! THAT'S THE BEST NEWS EVER! I'M GOING TO BE A SISTER!" June hollered, her voice so loud that it was a miracle the windows didn't shatter.
Everyone else joined in with June's excitement. The Silverlock family had gained a new Champion AND a new member of the family all in one week! It was a long way away but they were looking forward immensely to the birth of Ruby's second child. Be it a brother or a sister, June knew she was going to enjoy having a sibling of her own…
June's done it! She's truly followed in her mother's footsteps now! She's Kanto's brand new Champion! And she also has a new sibling on the way too! Championship title, lovely girlfriend, new sibling coming, June's got it all right now! Join me for the epilogue as we finally wrap up this story fully and bring June's tale to a close...
Trivia: It was ALWAYS the plan from the start that June and Trace's battle was going to end with Mega Charizard X vs. Mega Blastoise. As for why Mega Charizard X in particular? Easy, it's my favourite Mega Charizard of the two. Why they ever bothered with Mega Charizard Y, I have no idea since it was obvious EVERYBODY was going to prefer Mega Charizard X anyway. =P
And much like with Drill Run, I'm using anime logic for Bonemarang in how it's a Ground attack that can clearly be aimed and thus it should be able to hit Flying-types. I mean the attack consists of you throwing a bone at your opponent so of course it should be able to hit airborne opponents! It's so silly how GameFreak never considered that and made it so all Ground attacks miss Flying-types regardless of how logically they should be able to hit or not. XD