We were so proud of Serena, she had made it! She had become the Queen! We had a huge party afterwards, with Gary and Ash not holding back at all! With all the money they have, it was quite a party. They invited every contestant, Pierre and even Aria! Unfortunately, we had to leave Serena in Gloire City. She might have been queen for only one day, but she already had a lot of duties to attend to. Interviews, photoshoots, training sessions, and even to schedule some performances. It was madness! Still, it did not seem to bother Serena that much. She had a huge smile on her face and seem to be enjoying herself. Especially, since she had patched things up with her mom. I could understand her sense of relief and happiness she was exuding, after all I felt the same after I fixed things with my dad.

Now, with that behind us, we made our way to Snowbelle City for Max's last gym battle. On the way, we met with Sawyer, who already has all eight gym badges. Max and Sawyer had another battle, but this time it was Sawyer the one who won, much to Sawyer's happiness and Max's disappointment. Still, Max was happy for his friend and rival, though he did promise to beat him during the conference. The rest off our journey to the snow-covered city was quite peaceful, much to our collective surprise.

Maybe Arceus was giving Ash some respite after everything with Team Flare? Let's just hope it keeps up... I just jynxed us, haven't I? Great! Gary is going to kill me!

However, all of my worries disappeared when I stepped foot into Snowbelle City, and a rush of awe and wonder washed over me. The city was a picturesque winter wonderland, adorned with a soft blanket of pristine white snow that glistened under the gentle sunlight. It was a sight that stirred my heart with a mix of excitement and tranquility. The streets of Snowbelle City were lined with quaint houses and buildings, their rooftops adorned with icicles that sparkled like delicate crystals. Everywhere I looked, the winter scenery painted a serene backdrop, inviting me to explore and immerse myself in its beauty.

The air carried a crisp chill, but it was invigorating rather than uncomfortable. Each breath filled my lungs with the freshness of the snow-laden atmosphere, reminding me of the purity and tranquility that winter brings. The sound of my footsteps on the snow-covered ground created a soft crunching sound, adding a rhythmic melody to the peaceful ambiance. As I walked through the city, I couldn't help but be captivated by the intricate details of the architecture. The delicate snowflakes clung to the eaves of buildings, creating intricate patterns that seemed crafted by nature's own hand. The juxtaposition of the white snow against the vibrant colors of the city's decorations brought forth a sense of harmony and enchantment.

Snowbelle City evoked a sense of calmness within me, as if time had slowed down and allowed me to appreciate the simple yet profound beauty of nature. It reminded me of the importance of embracing the present moment and finding solace in the stillness that winter brings. The city's serene atmosphere also ignited a spark of creativity within me. The crisp air and the gentle dance of snowflakes inspired me to imagine new inventions and ideas, fueling my passion for scientific exploration.

"This place is beautiful!" Bonnie exclaimed in awe.

"That it is," I agreed with my little sister. "Are you excited for your last gym battle?" I turned towards Max and noticed a frown on his face. "Are you ok? What's wrong?"

"Nothing, I just... I missed May's final performance at the Kanto Grand Festival," Max sighed. "She lost to Drew, came in second."

"Well, that's not so bad!" Bonnie tried to cheer him up.

"I know! It's just that she worked so hard!" Max pouted. "At least, Trip won the Indigo Conference."

"So, did Drew," Ash reminded him gently. "They both worked hard and gave their best, all of our friends did."

"How did Zoey do in the Sinnoh Grand Festival?" Max inquired, more collected now.

"She won it, and Paul won the Lily of the Valley Conference," Ash informed us, hand going to touch the golden lily on his ear. "Dawn was a total hit in Sinnoh as a Poke Stylist. The three of them journeyed together through Sinnoh... though Zoey departed from the group for a training boot camp after getting all five ribbons."

"Nah, she left because Paul and Dawn finally got together and she hated seeing her crush being all sweet with another person," Gary interrupted. "That was just the excuse she used for Dawn, because even Paul had realized that her feelings for Dawn were more than just platonic."

"Reggie is very happy for his little brother," Riley informed us with a proud smile. "So, am I."

We all came to a stop before the Snowbelle City Gym, home to the Gym Leader Wulfric, an Ice Master.

"Here we go," Max murmured. "My last gym... in Kalos that is."

"Give it your all!" Ash encouraged him, patting his head.

With that said, we parted ways. Max went towards the challenger's box and we went to take our seats. Bonnie ended up sitting on my lap, as the gym's seats were too cold for her. Not that I minded, I missed her actinng this spoiled. She stopped after realizing how much work dad had left for me, when he had named me the gym's leader. She is that considerate. Luckily, she went back to acting like the child she is.

As the gym battle between Max and Gym Leader Wulfric began, a surge of anticipation coursed through my veins. The battlefield was set in Snowbelle City's icy gym, the perfect backdrop for a clash of elemental forces.

"Wulfric, I'm ready for our final showdown!" Max exclaimed, his eyes filled with determination.

Wulfric, with a beartic smile, replied, "You've come a long way, Max. Show me the strength you've gained on your journey!"

With a swift motion, Wulfric released his Bergmite onto the battlefield, his icy presence sending a shiver down my spine. Max, sent out his Pyroar, a majestic and fiery creature ready to unleash his power.

"Pyroar, let's show them the strength of our bond!" Max commanded, his voice filled with passion.

Pyroar responded with a fierce roar, flames flickering around his mane, ready to ignite the battle. The icy terrain seemed to tremble as the clash between Fire and Ice was about to unfold.

"Bergmite, use Bite!" Wulfric ordered, his voice echoing across the gym.

But Max was quick to react, his strategic mind coming into play. "Pyroar, dodge and counter with Flamethrower!"

With agility and grace, Pyroar evaded the dark jaws of Bergmite, swiftly retaliating with a powerful blast of flames that engulfed the opposing pokemon. The arena was illuminated with a fiery spectacle, contrasting with the icy surroundings.

"Wulfric, don't let up! Bergmite, use Chilling Waters!" Wulfric commanded, determined not to be defeated easily.

Max's eyes narrowed, his focus unwavering. "Pyroar, show them your speed! Use Quick Attack!" Pyroar leaped into action, his fiery mane blazing as he darted across the battlefield with astonishing speed. The avalanche of chilling water was no match for Pyroar's agility as he gracefully maneuvered, dodging the impending disaster. "Now, Pyroar, finish this with a powerful Fire Blast!" Max declared, his voice filled with unwavering confidence. As if on cue, Pyroar unleashed a torrent of flames, engulfing the air in a blazing inferno. The heat intensified, melting the ice beneath their feet and illuminating the gym with an intense glow. Bergmite stood no chance against the sheer power of the Fire Blast, succumbing to its scorching heat. "That's it! Good job Pyroar!"

"You rock Max!" Bonnie shouted, as we all clapped in celebration.

"Not bad at all," Wulfric praised, returning his fainted pokemon. "But this is far from over, Avalugg you are up next!"

With a commanding gesture, Wulfric released his imposing Avalugg onto the battlefield, his massive ice-covered form towering over the arena. Max, undeterred, chose to keep his Pyroar in play, aware of the type advantage he held.

"Pyroar, let's show them our blazing power!" Max commanded, his voice echoing with confidence.

Pyroar responded with a fiery roar, flames dancing around his majestic mane, exuding an aura of strength and determination.

Knowing the weakness of Avalugg to Fire-type moves, Wulfric decided to employ a different strategy. "Avalugg, use Stone Edge!" he commanded, his voice filled with calculated intent.

Max's eyes widened with surprise, but he quickly adapted. "Pyroar, dodge and retaliate with Flamethrower!" he swiftly directed.

With agility and grace, Pyroar evaded the incoming barrage of sharp stones, evoking a sense of awe as he maneuvered around the battlefield. In response, a powerful jet of flames erupted from its mouth, engulfing Avalugg in scorching heat.

"Avalugg, don't give up! Counter with Crunch!" Wulfric commanded, determined to turn the tide of the battle.

Max's mind raced as he analyzed the situation. "Pyroar, use your speed! Dodge and strike with a powerful Hyper Beam!" Pyroar swiftly evaded Avalugg's menacing jaws, his fiery movements leaving a trail of embers in its wake. With a surge of energy, Pyroar unleashed a devastating Hyper Beam, tearing through the frigid air and colliding with Avalugg, sending shockwaves across the battlefield. The clash of power and strategy echoed through the gym, captivating the spectators and myself. It was a battle of wits and adaptability, each trainer pushing their Pokémon to the limits. Max's voice resounded with determination. "Pyroar, finish this with a well-aimed Fire Blast!"

Pyroar, fueled by his trainer's unwavering belief, summoned its inner strength. Flames erupted from its mane, gathering into a concentrated sphere of intense heat. With a mighty roar, Pyroar unleashed the Fire Blast, engulfing Avalugg in an inferno of scorching flames. As the dust settled and the embers dissipated, a hushed silence fell upon the gym. Max stood resolute, his Pyroar standing tall and proud, while Avalugg slumped to the ground, unable to continue the fight. Wulfric, a mix of disappointment and admiration on his face, returned his fainted pokemon, as Max and Pyroar celebrated.

"Is it me, or are Pyroar's flames stronger?" I wondered out loud.

"Max asked Charizard for a special training session before coming here," Ash replied, with a proud smile. "Those flames are scorching hot!"

Wulfric, finally made his move by sending out his mighty Abomasnow, his last and final pokemon. With a swift motion, he activated the Mega Evolution, causing Abomasnow to undergo a magnificent transformation. The power emanating from the Mega Stone was palpable, and Max understood the gravity of the situation. Max, composed and ready for the challenge, made a strategic decision. He recalled his Pyroar, acknowledging the disadvantage he faced against a Mega Evoled pokemon, and sent out his Gallade. With unwavering confidence, he activated his own Mega Evolution, unlocking the immense potential within Gallade.

"Abomasnow, let's see how you fare against a Mega-Evolved opponent! Use Wood Hammer!" Wulfric commanded.

Abomasnow, now towering and enhanced by his Mega Evolution, summoned the power of nature, his body enveloped in a vibrant green energy. He charged towards Gallade, aiming to deliver a powerful blow.

Max, well-prepared for the battle, swiftly countered. "Gallade, dodge and retaliate with Close Combat!"

Gallade's agility and fighting prowess were amplified by his Mega Evolution. He elegantly evaded Abomasnow's Wood Hammer, displaying a remarkable display of speed and finesse. In a swift motion, Gallade unleashed a barrage of precise and powerful punches, striking Abomasnow with his signature Close Combat move.

Wulfric's face reflected both surprise and determination. "Abomasnow, endure the attack! Counter with Blizzard!"

Abomasnow, unfazed by the onslaught of Gallade's blows, summoned the power of icy winds. He unleashed a blizzard, creating a whirlwind of freezing snowflakes that engulfed the battlefield, threatening to freeze everything in his path.

Max's eyes gleamed with focused intensity. "Gallade, use your psychic powers to create a protective barrier!"

Gallade's Psychic abilities manifested as a shimmering barrier, shielding him from the biting cold and icy onslaught. The barrier stood strong, warding off the Blizzard attack and demonstrating Gallade's unwavering determination. The clash between the Mega-Evolved pokemon intensified, each displaying their unique strengths and abilities. Max and Wulfric exchanged commands with precision and strategy, fully aware of the incredible power that Mega Evolution brought to the battle. The battle continued with a captivating display of skill and determination, as Gallade and Abomasnow unleashed their most powerful moves. The icy battlefield reverberated with the clash of elemental forces, captivating everyone present.

In the end, it was a draw. Neither pokemon could continue battling, giving Max the victory as he still had two pokemon. The battle showcased the true potential of Mega Evolution, emphasizing the careful planning and synchronization between trainer and pokemon.

Wulfric, approached him and extended his hand towards Max. "The Iceberg Badge is yours. Congratulations!"

I almost went deaf with how much Bonnie was shouting and cheering on my lap. Though, she was not as bad as Ash and Riley, who were quite proud of their young mentee.

Max, a triumphant smile stretching across his face, grasped Wulfric's hand firmly. "Thank you, Wulfric. It was an honor to battle you."

As the battle concluded, a sense of accomplishment and pride filled the room. With the Iceberg Badge gleaming in his possession, Max's journey continued with newfound determination. As his friend and companion, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement for the adventures that awaited him. The Snowbelle City gym battle had been a defining moment, and now he had one last obstacle... The Lumiose Conference.