Lumiose City. I am finally back home. Today was a special day, as it will finally be the Gym Battle between Max and I. Even with my father taken back his duties as Gym Leader of the Lumiose City Gym, I still kept my license as Gym Leader. So, when Max told me he wanted to battle me instead of my father, I accepted. I was nervous to be honest, even when my Luxio had evolved into a Luxray battling Goomy, who in return evolved into a Sliggoo. But I was not going to back down. I had learned a lot during my journey with Ash and all of my friends. I was no longer that little boy, scared and overwhelmed. I was standing on my own two feet and ready to take charge. Which is why I returned to Lumiose City before the rest of our group, to train and get ready. If I am to face Max, I will do it the correct way.

"Brother!" Bonnie called out for me with a beaming smile, as she skipped towards me for a hug. I hugged her back instinctually, but with much warmth. No matter how maddening she is, or how much work she gives me, she is my little sister and I love her with all of my heart. If anything she is more like a daughter to me, I was the one to raise her after all. When our father was always away, busy with his work. "You won't believe what happened to us! We met Queen Aria! Well, she was in disguise when we met her and called herself Ariana, but that was her! She had a double battle against Serena! And Fennekin evolved into Braixen! Isn't that cool?! Not only that, we also run into Tierno! We even got to meet Champion Diantha, as we were present for Ash's last filming session! Ash was done, but Champion Diantha still has more scenes- she is the protagonist after all! You missed out so much!"

"It is Bonnie," I smiled, patting her head in a caring manner. "However, you can tell me all about it later. Right now it is Max's moment," I reminded her gently. She pouted but followed the rest to take their seats. "Congratulations!" I told Serena, who smiled back, mouthing a 'Thank you' towards me. With a nod I turned to my first gym challenger in months. On the other side of the battlefield stood my friend and now opponent, Max Maple. "Are you ready?"

"We are!" Max answered, making me smile.

That's an Ash Ketchum answer, if I ever heard one, I thought amusedly. If only more trainers were like them...

"Then let's start!" Clemonbot announced, having taken father's position as referee for this match. No one was happy with father at the moment and after hearing Ash scolding him it made me realize many things... which made me not that happy with my father either. "This will be a 3 vs 3 pokemon battle! Only the trainer will be able to return pokemon and the battle will be over when one side has no pokemon left capable of battle. Do you all understand? Good! Let the battle begin!"

"Flabébé/Luxray!" We both released our pokemon at the same time, by Max's expression I could see he had not expected me to lead with Luxray. Though, he did not recall his fairy, if anything he squared his shoulders and looked more than reasy to take me on.

Good, I smiled. Because I've been waiting for this for a long time.

"Alright, Clemont, let's make this battle one to remember!" Max exclaimed, a determined glint in his eyes.

I couldn't help but smile, the familiar rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins. "You're on, Max! Prepare yourself! Let's start this off strong, Luxray! Thunderbolt!" I commanded, my voice firm yet filled with excitement.

Luxray responded immediately, summoning a powerful bolt of lightning that crackled with raw energy. The electric surge shot towards Max's Flabébé, who dodged with surprising agility.

Max grinned, a twinkle of determination in his eyes. "Impressive dodge, Flabébé! Now, use Energy Ball!"

Flabébé unleashed a glowing orb of energy towards Luxray, who swiftly evaded the attack. The battle had begun, and it was clear that we were both ready to give it our all.

"Luxray, let's try a different strategy! Use Crunch!" I called out, adjusting my tactics to Max's resilient Flabébé.

With a fierce growl, Luxray lunged at Flabébé, jaws clamping down with powerful force. But to my surprise, Flabébé held her ground, refusing to back down.

Max's voice rang out with determination. "Flabébé, show them your strength! Petal Dance!"

Flabébé spun gracefully, petals swirling around her as she unleashed a flurry of powerful attacks. Luxray fought valiantly, but the onslaught proved to be overwhelming. The battle raged on, both pokemon giving their all in a dazzling display of skill and determination. As the intensity heightened, I could feel the bond between me and Luxray strengthening. We moved as one, anticipating each other's moves and responding with swift precision. But Max and Flabébé were equally formidable, their synergy evident in every coordinated action. Clear proof of Ash's teachings. With each passing moment, the battle grew more intense. The cheers from our friends echoed in my ears, their excitement fueling our determination. The clash of powers and the dance of strategy created a breathtaking spectacle. Finally, as if the universe itself sensed the culmination of our efforts, something incredible happened. Max's Flabébé underwent a stunning evolution, transforming into the radiant Floette. The sheer beauty and power of the moment left me awestruck.

But the battle was far from over. We both knew that victory hung in the balance, and neither of us was willing to give up.

"Max, this battle has been amazing," I said, admiration evident in my voice. "But now, let's finish this with all our strength! Luxray, Thunder Fang!"

Luxray roared, his fangs crackling with electric energy. He lunged at Floette, jaws clamping down with a powerful bite. But Floette retaliated with all her might, striking Luxray with a dazzling display of Fairy-type power. The clash of energy was overwhelming. The power surged through both pokemon, and in a stunning twist of fate, they both fell to the ground, exhausted.

As the dust settled, a moment of silence enveloped the battlefield. Max and I exchanged a glance, the respect and friendship between us unshaken.

"That was an incredible battle, Clemont," Max said, his voice filled with admiration. "You and Luxray fought with such determination."

I nodded, a mixture of pride and exhaustion coursing through me. "And you, Max, have become an incredible trainer. Your bond with Floette is inspiring. It was an honor to battle against you." I returned my pokemon. "But the battle is far from over! Heliolisk you are up!"

"Gigalith, you are my choice!" Max summoned his second pokemon, leaving me stunned. I did not expect him to use one of his Unovan pokemon. Which was kind of dumb from me, but it was to be expected. Max has only caught two pokemon from Kalos and he had already used one of them in our battle. "Let's do this!"

We both went all out from the get-go, but the rock-solid Gigalith stood before me, a formidable opponent ready to counter my every move. As the battle between my Heliolisk and Max's Gigalith intensified, I knew that I had to carefully choose my next move.

"Heliolisk, let's change up our strategy! Use Grass Knot!" I commanded, adapting to Gigalith's Rock-type immunity against Electric attacks.

Heliolisk swiftly shifted its focus, summoning vines from the ground with Grass Knot. The vines snaked towards Gigalith, aiming to ensnare and restrain his opponent with the power of nature.

Max's eyes widened as he realized the change in tactics. "Gigalith, break free with Stone Edge!"

Gigalith responded quickly, using his sturdy limbs to shatter the restraining vines with razor-sharp stones. He managed to break free from the Grass Knot's grasp, avoiding being trapped.

I knew I had to maintain the momentum. "Heliolisk, follow up with Dragon Pulse!"

Heliolisk complied, gathering draconic energy within himself. With a powerful roar, it unleashed a concentrated blast of Dragon Pulse towards Gigalith.

But Max wasn't one to be caught off guard. "Gigalith, protect yourself with Stealth Rock!"

Gigalith formed a defensive barrier of jagged rocks, just as the Dragon Pulse collided with the protective barrier, the attack was weakened, dispersing its energy before it could fully reach Gigalith. The battle grew more intense after that, each move and countermove testing our skills as trainers. Heliolisk and Gigalith continued to exchange blows, their determination shining through.

"Stay focused, Heliolisk! Use Iron Tail!" I commanded, hoping to slow down Gigalith's movements. Heliolisk slammed Gigalith an Iron Tail successful, mannaging to send Gigalith flying bacl.

Max's voice rang out, filled with urgency. "Gigalith, protect yourself with Iron Defense!" Gigalith fortified his rocky armor, increasing his defenses after our successful attack.

Despite my efforts, it seemed that Gigalith's solid defenses were proving difficult to overcome. My Heliolisk had fought valiantly, but Max's strategic choices were proving to be a formidable challenge. As the battle continued, the gap in strength became apparent. Gigalith's relentless assault wore down Heliolisk's energy, and despite our best efforts, victory eluded us. As the battle between my Heliolisk and Max's Gigalith reached its conclusion, I sighed, acknowledging the defeat with a heavy heart. I knew I had to switch up my strategy. My Heliolisk had fought valiantly but was unable to overcome the formidable Gigalith. Determined to turn the tide, I made a quick decision.

"Bunnelby, it's your time to shine!" I called out, releasing my trusty Ground-type pokemon onto the battlefield.

Bunnelby hopped forward, ready for the challenge that lay ahead. His eyes gleamed with determination as he faced off against Gigalith. I noticed the Rock-type pokemon looked tired, even after winning previously the battle was a close one and it has clearly damaged him.

"Let's start strong, Bunnelby! Use Dig!" I commanded, hoping to catch Gigalith off guard.

Bunnelby swiftly burrowed underground, disappearing from sight. He dug deep into the earth, preparing for a surprise attack from below.

Max remained composed, issuing his instructions with confidence. "Gigalith, brace yourself! Use Stone Edge!"

Gigalith summoned a flurry of sharp stones, launching them into the air with incredible force. The stones arced towards Bunnelby's anticipated emergence point, aiming to intercept his underground assault. With precise timing, Bunnelby burst out of the ground, narrowly dodging the incoming barrage of stones. He wasted no time in launching his counterattack.

"Bunnelby, strike back with Earthquake!" I commanded, capitalizing on the opening.

Bunnelby stomped hia feet on the ground, sending shockwaves rippling through the battlefield. The powerful Earthquake shook the ground, causing tremors that rocked Gigalith's sturdy form.

Max gritted his teeth, realizing the impact of the attack. "Gigalith, hold on! Counter with Stone Edge once more!"

Gigalith, despite the disruption caused by the Earthquake, gathered his strength. He unleashed another volley of stones, attempting to regain control of the battle.

But Bunnelby was prepared. "Dodge and retaliate with Double-Edge!"

Bunnelby evaded the incoming stones with agile movements, swiftly closing the distance between himself and Gigalith. He threw himself at his opponent with reckless abandon, delivering a powerful Double-Edge attack with its full force. The collision between Bunnelby's Double-Edge and Gigalith's Stone Edge created a dazzling display of power. The clash reverberated through the air, leaving a trail of dust and debris in its wake. As the dust settled, I anxiously awaited the outcome of our combined efforts. The sight before me revealed Gigalith, exhausted and unable to battle any further.

"We did it, Bunnelby! You were amazing!" I exclaimed, my voice filled with a mix of relief and pride.

Bunnelby hopped back towards me, panting heavily but wearing a triumphant expression. He had given his all in the battle, showcasing its strength and determination.

"Yo go big brother!" Bonnie shouted from the stands, making my blush in pride and hapiness.

Max had a look of respect on his face. "Congratulations, Clemont. Bunnelby fought with incredible tenacity. It was a hard-fought victory."

I nodded, acknowledging his words with gratitude. "Thank you, Max. Your Gigalith was a formidable opponent. He pushed us to our limits."

"Well, don't sit on your laurels! Because I still have one pokemon left!" Max announced throwing a Poke Ball into the air. "Serperior you are next!"

As Bunnelby and Serperior faced each other,a tense silence hung in the air. I could see the determination in Serperior's eyes, mirroring the unwavering spirit of my own Bunnelby.

"Alright, Bunnelby, let's give it our all!" I exclaimed, my voice filled with conviction. "Start with a powerful Mud-Slap!"

Bunnelby dug his paws into the ground, launching a barrage of mud towards Serperior. The globs of mud sailed through the air, aiming to obstruct Serperior's vision and reduce her accuracy.

"Serperior, evade and retaliate with Dragon Pulse!" Max commanded, his voice steady.

With agility and grace, Serperior swiftly sidestepped the incoming mud, avoiding its impact. She then gathered energy within her mouth, conjuring a sphere of pulsating draconic power. Before I could react, Serperior unleashed the Dragon Pulse, hurtling it towards Bunnelby with great force. The powerful attack collided with Bunnelby, causing a small explosion upon impact.

"Bunnelby, hang in there!" I encouraged, my voice filled with determination. "Counter with a powerful Bulldoze!"

Bunnelby shook off the effects of the Dragon Pulse and charged towards Serperior, surrounded by crackling electrical energy.

"Serperior, dodge and use Leaf Tornado!" Max commanded, his voice resolute.

Serperior swiftly evaded Bunnelby's Bulldoze, her lithe body gracefully maneuvering to the side. She then spun in place, unleashing a whirlwind of sharp leaves with her Leaf Tornado. The spinning vortex of foliage tore through the air, hurtling towards Bunnelby with a gust of force. Bunnelby tried his best to dodge, but some leaves grazed his fur, leaving behind small cuts.

"Dodge and retaliate with Double Slap, Bunnelby!" I instructed, determined not to let the pressure overwhelm us.

Bunnelby swiftly evaded the remaining leaves of the Leaf Tornado, his agility shining through. He then closed the distance between himself and Serperior, delivering a flurry of quick, consecutive strikes with his ears. The Double Slap connected, delivering a series of swift blows to Serperior. However, despite Bunnelby's efforts, Serperior stood strong, displaying her resilience. I could see the exhaustion in both pokemon, their determination keeping them going. It was a clash of wills and strength, pushing each other to their limits.

"Serperior, wrap it up with Leaf Blade!" Max commanded, his voice filled with a mix of confidence and fatigue.

Serperior's tail glowed with a vibrant green energy as she swung it forward, forming a blade of sharp leaves. With a swift motion, she aimed to strike Bunnelby head-on with her Leaf Blade.

Thinking quickly, I called out my next move. "Bunnelby, use Dig to evade and counter!"

Bunnelby quickly burrowed into the ground, disappearing from sight just as Serperior's Leaf Blade came crashing down. He delved deep into the earth, preparing for a surprise attack.

"Serperior, stay alert!" Max warned, his voice filled with anticipation.

I knew this was our chance. "Bunnelby, emerge and strike with a powerful Dig!"

Bunnelby burst out from beneath the ground, launching himself towards Serperior with incredible force. His claws glowed with earthy energy, aiming to deal a decisive blow. The two pokemon collided, a burst of dust and debris swirling around them. The impact was intense, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. As the dust settled, both pokemon stood their ground, visibly weakened but refusing to give up. The battle had taken its toll on them, showcasing their unwavering determination. But in the end, it was Max's Serperior who emerged victorious, just barely managing to remain standing. Bunnelby, despite his valiant efforts, fell to the ground, unable to battle any longer.

I rushed to Bunnelby's side, a mixture of pride and disappointment flooding my emotions. "Well done, Bunnelby. You fought with everything you had."

Max approached with a sense of respect, acknowledging the hard-won battle. "Clemont, your Bunnelby put up an incredible fight. It was a close match, and I have the utmost respect for you as a trainer."

I offered a nod of appreciation, pride swelling within me despite the defeat. "Thank you, Max. Your Serperior is truly remarkable. It was an honor to battle against you."

As I recalled Bunnelby to his Poke Ball, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the bonds we had formed and the growth we had achieved. This battle had tested our limits, and though we fell short, it served as a reminder of the strength we would continue to strive for. Though the victory eluded us, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride for the valiant effort my pokemon had displayed. Battles like these were invaluable experiences, allowing us to grow stronger and forge unbreakable bonds.

"You were so cool!" Bonnie jumped on me, right after I handed Max his Voltage Badge. "You got stronger!"

"I lost," I reminded her.

"It does not matter, you were cool and are my big brother," Bonnie pouted in determination. "You are the best in my opinion."

"And that is all it matters," I told her warmly, feeling my heart ache at how adorable my little sister is.

I love her so much. My adorable, sweet, and beautiful little sister.