Heart of Champions

by stringdog

Dreams have been achieved, what needs to be won has been won, but now there is a burning question that needs to be answered; what comes next? That is a question that Ash and Dawn will soon have answered in this fifth and final installment in 'Hearts' series. One thing is certain though, going forward they will need all the heart they have to rise to what is coming. Pearlshipping.

10. Part CXCIX: The Champion of Kalos

Well, here it is, tenth part of the fifth and final installment in my 'Heart' series on the right day as promised. After a long year, many battles and trials, Ash has reached the final point in his Kalos journey, one that he's long been aiming for, a full, official battle with a region Champion where victory would mean claiming her title for himself. To get here he's had to defeat the 8 Kalos gym leaders, win the Lumiose Conference, and sweep the Kalos Elite Four and he's done all that. Now all that stands in his way of the next stage in his journey to be a Master is his toughest opponent to date, the Champion of Kalos, Diantha. Can Ash win or will he fall at the final hurdle? It's time to find out as his Kalos journey comes to a climactic end. That is all the administrative stuff I have for this pre Part note and there are two guest reviews to respond to and a question to answer (the other question posed in that review is answered in the second guest review response) which I will do now starting with the guest reviews. Do please keep your reviews coming as I love hearing from y'all.

To Guest (guest), yes Ash will catch more Pokémon in this story, currently I have plans for at least 10 captures before the end of Champions but that may change as I've been known to have spur of the moment captures like his Sigilyph and Dawn's Spiritomb when they fit in the story. However, because Max and Diantha both have a Gardevoir and both of theirs are legitimate canon Pokémon, Ash will not be getting a Gardevoir as that would go against my Pokémon diversity policy, for more details on that see Parts XXII and LX which are in Dreams where I go over it and the exceptions that I have so as to prevent multiple people having the same Pokémon. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.

To Guest (different guest), well this is the battle so I hope that this lives up to it. As for what will happen next, well that will be revealed really soon so stick around as the storyline of Champions will be revealed in Part CCI. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.

Will Ash visit old or new places? You will have to wait and see; all will be answered soon. All I will say on this front is that Paldea will not be visited in Champions, it was planned out long before Gen IX happened and other than references that region will not be addressed in this story. Also, as this review mentioned Bayleef I will note that Bayleef evolved back in Part XXXII in Dreams.

That is it for this pre-Part note which means that it is once again time to sit back which and enjoy the latest installment in Heart of Champions. Part CXCIX: The Champion of Kalos.

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon.

Part CXCIX: The Champion of Kalos

Ash stood in the entranceway with Pikachu on his shoulder as he and his buddy looked out over the now familiar bridge and to the battlefield in the Lumiose Stadium. As they did they could hear the sounds of the creating crowd that was eagerly awaiting the coming battle.

This was a sight that they were used to; they'd seen it 4 times in the Lumiose Conference during the full battles and then again four times during the Elite Four challenge the other day, well Ash had as Pikachu had only been in one of those for battles but he knew it just as well as Ash did. This time it was different, however, and the weight of what was about to happen was on Ash's shoulders as he and Pikachu stood there waiting for the time to walk out to hit.

That was because Ash was about to face his toughest and most important battle to date with the more on the line than any other battle that he'd ever had. He was here today because the last 8 times he'd been in this position he'd won those battles and those victories were needed to lead him to this very moment.

He'd won the Lumiose Conference, he'd swept the Kalos Elite Four in his challenge that he'd earned for winning said Conference, and now he'd earned the ultimate right, a full battle with the Champion of Kalos for her title should he defeat her. That was the battle he was facing today, that was why it was so important, Ash was about to face Diantha.

Everything that Ash had done as a trainer over almost a decade of hard work, adventure, and travel had come to this moment, this chance, this battle to become a regional Champion. It may not be his own region of Kanto but Ash didn't mind, he'd more than earned this moment and as he took a deep breath he couldn't help but think about how he'd gotten here while he looked out over the battlefield once more before him before closing his eyes to take a final moment.

It had all started on his 10th birthday when he'd woken up late and missed a chance at one of the three Kanto starters so he was forced to accept a stubborn Pikachu who hated his Poke Ball. That had led to a rough start but after an incident involving his first friend and companion on his journey, Misty, Ash earned Pikachu's trust and together they started their journey as a team. Since then, everything that had happened had led Ash to this moment and it was all relevant to getting here.

In his 9 years as a trainer he'd been to 6 regions and one special set of islands, earned 42 gym badges, beaten the Kanto Battle Frontier, traveled with 9 great companions, caught 52 species of Pokémon with many still with him, won numerous other events, and had more adventures, challenges, and battles than he could count. All of that, the friends he'd made, rivals he'd had, Pokémon he'd caught, battles he'd won and lost, and the people that he'd met had forged him into who he was today and he took all of that as he calmed his mind and opened his eyes.

Ash was ready, it was time and as the clock ticked over Ash walked out of his entrance with Pikachu on his should as the crowd roared. His cheer section, led by his fiancée and containing many of his friends who'd come to support him in the Lumiose Conference and stayed for this challenge were really going at it and Ash knew that all his friends not here today were watching at home to see how he performed and rooting for him to beat Diantha.

In addition to this Ash even had the two Champions he knew best, his own region's one and Dawn's one in Lance and Cynthia, were in attendance to see how the battle went, so he couldn't let all those watching and supporting him down. It was time to give it his all and join their ranks.

"Folks, a moment that we never expected to see is now upon us!" The announcer said excitedly as Ash walked across the bridge towards the battlefield, he would enter alone just like he had during the challenge which he was fine with as he was used to it by now plus it gave the announcer time to hype things up which he continued to do. "After earning the right to challenge the Kalos Elite Four with his win in the Lumiose Conference, Ash Ketchum shocked not just Kalos but the world by being the first person in the history of the Kalos League to defeat not one, not two, not three, but all four members of our Elite Four!"

At that the announcer paused as the crowd roared at his words and Ash stepped off the bridge and onto the battlefield. The match had to be hyped up after all and Ash didn't mind that, he was focused solely on the battle, he had to be, so he would leave the announcer to his hyping as he prepared for whatever Diantha had in store for him.

"He doused the flames of Malva, broke the wave of Siebold, blunted the edge of Wikstrom and tamed the beasts of Drasna." The announcer continued as Ash reached his starting point and Pikachu leapt off his shoulder to take his spot next to Ash as they waited for the announcer to finish. "With all those wins he earned this additional right, a full battle under the same rules as all the other battles that he's had but this time it's against the Champion of Kalos with her title on the line. If Ash wins he will become the Champion of Kalos, if he loses then he can exercise his right to join the Kalos Elite Four while they battle to see who drops out and then rechallenge Diantha after next year's challenge."

The announcer paused, likely for affect if Ash had to guess, as the crowd's cheering got louder the more he hyped things up. It was clear that he was building to this moment and he'd done a great job working up the crowd for it so they were now really revving up as the announcer reached the critical moment he'd been building to.

"That is all on the line so there's no point in waiting anymore." The announcer said and Ash saw the flash of white in the entranceway across from him and grinned at the sight because there was only one thing it could be. "Presenting the last figure in Ash's way to an unprecedented run, you all know her as one of the best actresses in the world but above that she is the strongest trainer in Kalos, introduction our current Champion; Diantha!"

At that the crowd reached a crescendo as Diantha walked out of her entrance and onto the other bridge, her walk as poised and confident as ever, her hair, makeup, and clothes perfect looking the same they had from the few times that he'd met her, and a smile on her face. This was who Ash had been seeking since he won the Lumiose Conference, this was the battle he wanted and he'd defeated the entire Kalos Elite Four just to be here today. At long last his full battle with Diantha was at hand.

There was no need for any more commentary, not that it could be heard over the crowd as it cheered for Diantha while she walked across the bridge, onto the battlefield, and to her trainer's box. Ash could tell that she was loved by her region, all the Champions he'd met had at least been respected and most had been clearly loved, but all that didn't matter to Ash. He was here to win and become a Champion himself so he was ready as Diantha came to a stop and set herself in her trainer's box.

"Well, here we are Ash." Diantha said still smiling at him. "When you won the Lumiose Conference I said that I hoped you'd defeat the Elite Four so that we could finish our battle from months ago and you did. For that I congratulate you."

"Thank you." Ash said. "I was motivated by this final battle to keep winning, especially after I beat Malva and knew that I could do it, because I wanted this battle above all else. The chance to face a Champion in an official full battle with the title on the line, that alone I couldn't pass up but you especially I wanted to face. As you pointed out, we do have unfinished business after all."

"That we do." Diantha said with a small nod. "But you'll have to work hard to reach that point because if you want to finish what we started in that field several months back you've got to push me to that point once again and this time there will be other Pokémon in your way."

"I fully intended to finish that battle and I'll finish it today." Ash said as he pulled out his first Poke Ball revealing that Pikachu wouldn't be his first Pokémon. "So let's do this Diantha. We can discuss things when this is done but I know that I'm ready for this battle, are you?"

"I am and I agree, there is no need for any words now." Diantha said as she pulled out her own first Poke Ball. "I've been looking forward to this full battle ever since you earned it the other day by beating Drasna, Ash, more than any battle I've looked forward to in a long time, so make it a good one."

"I won't disappoint you." Ash said. "Don't worry."

"Folks, our trainers are ready so there is no point in delaying this full battle any longer." The announcer said as the crowd cheered for the impending battle. "The title of Kalos Champion is on the line so…battle begin!"

"Gengar, I choose you." Ash said tossing out his Poke Ball and revealing that he was going to start with the very Pokémon he'd finished his challenge on though that wasn't intentional. "Also, show that you don't have it on you anymore."

"I'm counting on you, Gourgeist." Diantha said in response sending out a Pokémon Ash knew a little about from facing Team Rocket while in Kalos as well as seeing a few others being used by Jessilee and Jessilina in Showcases and Contests respectively. "What are you…oh I see, clever."

What Gengar did as jumbotron came to life with the same graphic as it had when Ash had had full battles in the Lumiose Conference, complete with the 6 hexagons that appeared in a jagged line after the images of himself and Diantha, was open his mouth and stick his tongue out. It showed that he did not have his Mega Stone at the moment, a confirmation that Ash wouldn't Mega Evolve him.

Diantha knew who the Mega Pokémon would be, it was going to be Greninja who was different but still classified as such and this was a good proof that Ash was sticking to that decision. It made sense really given that Greninja's change was an ability caused by battle wavelengths so it was safer for Ash to remove the Mega Stones of any Mega Pokémon he had to ensure that Greninja was the only one who could change like that.

"Good to see that you're taking the right steps to avoid a disqualification." Diantha said as the images of Gengar and Gourgeist appeared in the first hexagons by their trainers to confirm the battle had begun. "And I saw what that Gengar can do so this will be fun. Gourgeist, use Phantom Force."

"That's a move we know well." Ash said as Gourgeist vanished and Gengar nodded as they'd trained against this move with Dawn's Spiritomb as they'd basically trained against everything they could train against with their friends for this battle so they knew the two stage move that couldn't be seen was a challenge to deal with so they had to be ready for such attack. "Keep your eyes open and get an Ice Punch ready to his Gourgeist as soon as you can. It's part grass type so this will do well."

"Not a bad idea." Diantha said as they waited, her plan for this part of the battle already set as ice encased Gengar's right fist. "Let's see if this works though."

Ash and Gengar just tensed up as they got ready for what was to come. Phantom Force was a useful move to have and an annoying one to face as the Pokémon could come out of nowhere so they had to be on edge for it and ready to counter right away, though usually that counter came after taking a hit unfortunately. That was precisely what Gengar did when Gourgeist suddenly appeared before him with a grin and slammed into his face before he could act.

Gengar was expecting this though, he'd trained against the move and knew how hard it was to avoid so rather than avoid it he'd braced himself to take the super effective attack with no more than a grunt and then counter the second that he could, which was just what he did as he rolled with the hit and then punched out, his Ice Punch slamming into the jack-o'-lantern part of Gourgeist's body as the ghost and grass type was too close to avoid the attack.

As such, Gengar was able to respond to the super effective hit with one of his own that sent Gourgeist back with a wail of pain from the blow. It was an advantage that Ash had and he was already following it up with his next order.

"Now Gengar, use Venoshock." Ash said. "Don't let it avoid it."

"Phantom Force once again." Diantha said as Gengar laughed and opened his mouth to spew forth the special liquid that was Venoshock. "Only this time use Seed Bomb right after, Ash is ready for this move so we've got to keep on our toes."

"Gourgeist." Gourgeist said as it activated Phantom Force and vanished just before the Venoshock could hit it thus causing the poison type attack to harmlessly splatter on the battlefield.

"Use it again the moment you can." Ash said. "We've still got this."

Gengar just nodded as he set himself, his eyes looking around as he got ready for another attack to come out of nowhere. He was strong, he'd shown that with his victory that set up this massive battle and likely earned him his spot on this prestigious team, so he knew that he could take a few more super effective hits and he'd do so if it meant that he could land a hit in turn because he was going to repay kind with kind as he got ready for another Phantom Force that was about to come.

That came a moment later when Gourgeist appeared in the air above Gengar and slammed into the top of his head causing Gengar to grunt in pain and drop to a knee but he pushed through it and tipped his head back to spew forth the special liquid of Venoshock for a second time as Gourgeist retreated into the air. However, this time Gourgeist opened its mouth and shot out the seeds of Bullet Seed in response so that the two moves hit and exploded covering the field in smoke. It was a good block that prevented the attack from landing but Ash quickly adjusted.

"Dazzling Gleam." Ash said. "Track sound and use Shadow Ball."

"Phantom Force, that will evade things." Diantha said going with the safe option as Gengar glowed. "Then use Shadow Sneak right after."

Before Gourgeist could activate Phantom Force, Gengar unleashed his Dazzling Gleam and the powerful flash filled the battlefield causing Gourgeist to grunt in pain though it wasn't weak to the move at least. That was just what Gengar needed to hear and he turned to the sound, mouth open, and blasted out a ball of ghost type power as the light faded so that he could try and hit Gourgeist before it activated another Phantom Force.

Thanks to all the obscuration on the battlefield be it the smoke from when Bullet Seeds had intercepted the Venoshock or the fading light of Dazzling Gleam, combined with the hit that Gourgeist took, it hadn't been able to activate its Phantom Force before Gengar's Shadow Ball slammed into the same spot his Ice Punch had. That got a wail from Gourgeist as it took the super effective attack but it wasn't nearly enough to take it out and quickly, as it was blasted back by the Shadow Ball, it vanished just as the air became clear.

"Prep Venoshock." Ash said already preparing for the coming attack. "This will be rough Gengar but I know that you can handle it."

Gengar nodded, he knew what was coming and was ready for it, his attack on hand as he prepared once more to counter this annoying ghost type attack. There was a rough time period it took for Phantom Force to hit and he waited it out but when it ended and Gourgeist appeared it wasn't in front or above, it was behind him slamming into his back before spinning around as it got in front of the staggering Gengar to end it with Shadow Sneak as Gourgeist was sure that its fellow ghost type was near the end of its ropes.

It was a good idea in theory, a blow to the back would instinctively cause a Pokémon to spin around to face the direction that the blow had come from and Gourgeist would have been able to use that to its advantage. The problem was that Gengar didn't let that happen, he staggered and grunted but only moved enough to see Gourgeist after the hit so that as soon as it was in front of him he opened his mouth and spewed forth his Venoshock right before it set itself for its Shadow Sneak attack.

This time the liquid hit Gourgeist full on causing it to grunt in pain as the special liquid covered it from the top of its head to its base. Thankfully Gourgeist hadn't been poisoned in this battle, it couldn't be as Gengar didn't know any moves that caused poisoning, so the blow wasn't enhanced and it was only standard effective as Gourgeist's ghost type negated its grass type weakness to the type. As such it wasn't enough to take down Gourgeist and quicky it used its shadow to attack and strike Gengar in the chest with it before Gengar could close his mouth.

Unlike Gourgeist, Gengar didn't have a mitigation for the type weakness that one of his types had to this attack and so for the fourth time he took a super effective ghost type attack. He was good and he'd fought hard in two battles against strong opponents and their respective trainers but there was no way that he could take four ghost type attacks and with a long groan he staggered back from the Shadow Sneak and tipped over backwards to crash to the ground on his back, arms spread, mouth still open and swirls for eyes.

"Gengar is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Gengar's side and his image grayed on the jumbotron. "Gourgeist is the winner."

"Gengar return, you've fought well not just today but against Drasna as well where you ensured we could be here today so take a rest while we make sure your attacks weren't to waste." Ash said as he quickly recalled Gengar and as he put his Poke Ball away he pointed out to the battlefield to ensure that Diantha couldn't sub Gourgeist out. "Pikachu, I chose you, use Electroweb!"

"Pi, Pikachu." Pikachu said as he leapt out and onto the battlefield as fast as he could, the moment he was on it the electricity sparking on his tail as his image appeared in the second hexagon after Ash's on the jumbotron.

"Not bad for a quick change to force me to keep Gourgeist in but Pikachu isn't like Gengar in one vital sense so it's time." Diantha said her smile the same. "Gourgeist, use Trick-or-Treat."

"Trick-or-Treat?" Ash asked confused as he'd never heard of that move before while Pikachu leapt into the air and flipped sending out the Electroweb.

As the webbing of electricity shot out and over Gourgeist, Gourgeist itself just bounced in place before it sent out a series of classic looking ghosts for some reason that shot through the gaps in the Electroweb and hit Pikachu as he landed on the ground following his usage of Electroweb. There was no damage to Pikachu, though he felt an odd change in him the likes of which he'd never felt in battle before, so he shrugged it off and showed that he was fine.

Ash saw this and while he had no idea what Trick-or-Treat did, it was a move that he wasn't familiar with, there seemed to be no effect on Pikachu so he just pressed on as the Electroweb landed on Gourgeist and kept it in place for a moment giving Ash and Pikachu an opportunity that they were going to take. Naturally it only did a little damage to Gourgeist as it was resistant to the attack thanks to its grass type but that wasn't the goal, the goal was to keep ensnare it and that's just what they'd done.

"Now Pikachu, Iron Tail into Thunderbolt." Ash said as Gourgeist struggled but it was more a show than anything else. "Evade anything thrown at you."

"Pikachu." Pikachu said as he rushed at Gourgeist as fast as he could.

"Shadow Sneak." Diantha said her smile never faltering.

Gourgeist stopped pretending to struggle in the web and quickly extended its shadow through the web before arching it around and slashing Pikachu in the side as he closed in given the speed of Shadow Sneak. Pikachu had to clench his jaw at the pain of the blow that was surprisingly super effective. So, that's what those ghosts did the Mouse Pokémon realized, taking the hit had made him realize what the sensation was, it was the addition of a secondary type to him making him a dual type with the new type being ghost.

That wasn't good but Pikachu pushed through it as he leapt up and spun in the air, his tail turning to steel as he did before he slammed it into Gourgeist's face as it retracted its shadow. Gourgeist let out a grunt of pain from that as it was bounced into, and then off, the ground still in the net and Pikachu flipped back cheeks sparking. He wasn't going to give Gourgeist a moment to move.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu roared as electricity blasted out of his body while he was still falling to the ground.

"Phantom Force." Diantha said as the Thunderbolt arched down and onto Gourgeist.

Unfortunately, Gourgeist couldn't avoid the Thunderbolt with Phantom Force before it slammed into the top of its head but it didn't do too much damage thanks to Gourgeist's resistance to electric type attacks. Still all the damage was adding up and Gourgeist knew that it couldn't take another super effective attack at least and probably a standard one as well if the attack was strong enough.

That didn't matter though, with Trick-or-Treat having landed it knew that it had the advantage and as the Thunderbolt ended Gourgeist vanished once more, the Electroweb falling to the ground before fading away. This would really hurt Pikachu and was the entire reason why it knew its signature move as it gave Gourgeist a strong edge in battles against non-ghost types.

"Stay alert Pikachu." Ash said and Pikachu, who was now on all fours on the ground, did that as he looked around wary of the impending attack. "And get Iron Tail ready."

"Pikachu." Pikachu said with a nod as he got ready, his tail turning to steel in the process.

This was a waiting game and Pikachu was ready to act. He may have a ghost type now but he could take the hit, he knew it, and then return it in kind as he scanned the area around him. The issue was he didn't know where it would come from. Dig could be predicted somewhat but not a move like Phantom Force so he had to be ready. Thankfully he'd been with Ash since the beginning and was highly trained so he was indeed ready for the attack when it came.

When it did, the Phantom Force came in from above and to the side with Gourgeist appearing in the air there and slamming into Pikachu's right hand side. Thanks to the angle of the blow it bounced Pikachu off the ground and into the air but he used that as he rolled with it and twisted in the air, spinning is body fast, his tail out and still steel so that the top point in the zigzagged tail slammed into the side of Gourgeist's head before it could retreat after landing its attack.

Gourgeist let out a wail as it was blasted to the side, the spin adding force to Pikachu's move, before it hit the ground hard on its side and slid over it kicking up a little dust in the process. The blow was it for Gourgeist, after two super effective, three standard, and two moves it resisted it was finally done and when it came to a stop midway to Diantha on her side and the dust lightly fell on it it was clear that Gourgeist was out as it just lay there with swirls for eyes while Pikachu landed on the ground facing his opponent.

"Gourgeist is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Diantha's side thus causing Gourgeist's image to go gray on the jumbotron. "Pikachu is the winner."

"Gourgeist, return, you fought well and we landed the right attack to end this so it's time to take a leaf from Ash's book." Diantha said as she recalled Gourgeist and quickly put its Poke Ball away before she pulled out and tossed her second Poke Ball just as Ash was about to give the order to recall Pikachu. "I'm counting on you, Tyrantrum. Hyper Beam!"

"Evade that with Quick Attack and then get in close with a second one." Ash said quickly adapting as the Poke Ball burst open and the large rock and dragon type that had once been considered extinct landed on the battlefield maw already open and the orange light there as its image appeared in Diantha's second hexagon. "Use the cool down to land an Iron Tail. Rock types are why we learned this move in the first place after all."

"Strafe to hit Pikachu." Diantha said as the blast of orange light blasted from Tyrantrum's mouth though this was just a bonus as she already had a secondary plan to take out Pikachu, one that she knew would work. "But be ready for that Iron Tail."

Pikachu was already moving as he activated Quick Attack and shot to the side just before the powerful normal type attack could hit him, running as fast as he could as the Hyper Beam hit the ground with a boom that kicked up dust and dirt from the battlefield and then tracked behind Pikachu as he ran, gouging a grove into the ground as it went. It was a strong move from a strong Pokémon that Ash and Pikachu knew well seeing as May had one, which also meant that they'd trained against it thus giving them a small edge, but Pikachu was faster.

His years of training with Quick Attack combined with his high speed from all his years as Ash's partner ensured that he was able to run diagonally forward and into the other side of the battlefield as the attack followed him and then, just before it ended, Pikachu turned on a time and activated the move again to shoot at Tyrantrum as the Hyper Beam came to a stop and Tyrantrum was forced to just stand there unable to move due to the cool down.

This was just what they needed as Pikachu had only one good move against a Pokémon like this and he fully intended to land it as he closed in on Tyrantrum. Then, at the last minute possible, Pikachu leapt high into the air and turned his tail to steel before flipping and bringing the Iron Tail attack down on its snout just as Tyrantrum was recovering from using Hyper Beam.

The Despot Pokémon let out a growl of pain from the super effective blow but he could move and all this was planned by Diantha to ensure she landed her move and won. She needed Pikachu close and with Trick-or-Treat still at play and Tyrantrum's Strong Jaw ability thrown in for good measure she knew that Pikachu was done for.

"Crunch." Diantha ordered.

"Iron Tail." Ash countered as Tyrantrum opened its mouth, teeth glowing with dark type power.

Alas, because Pikachu had slammed it in the snout he'd forced Tyrantrum to bend down from the force of the blow it meant that Tyrantrum was now in the perfect position to swiftly clamp its powerful jaws down on Pikachu as he passed it and before Pikachu could even activate Iron Tail. Thanks to Pikachu still having that ghost type from earlier Crunch was super effective on him and it was further boosted by Tyrantrum's ability which increased the power of bite based attacks.

All that was far too much for Pikachu when you added in the other super effective attacks he'd taken from Gourgeist thanks to that added ghost type and he fainted right there. Tyrantrum knew that it had won and didn't even bother to shake its jaws, it just moved its head to the side and tossed Pikachu out and at its trainer. The small electric type flew through the air before landing well into Ash's side of the battlefield with a slightly wet thud and rolling until he was at Ash's feet with swirls for eyes as he lay on his side.

"Pikachu is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Ash's side as Pikachu's image grayed on the jumbotron. "Tyrantrum is the winner."

"You did well Pikachu." Ash said as he bent down to pick up his buddy while and the moment he was off the battlefield with Pikachu in his arms, Diantha recalled Tyrantrum but Ash didn't mind as he put Pikachu to his side and laid him there safely. "Take a rest you earned it after all that."

"I've got to say, Ash, your Pikachu is strong and tough." Diantha said as Ash rose to look at her. "It took three super effective moves to take it down which is impressive for an unevolved Pokémon."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked confused as he pulled out his next Poke Ball ready to use his third Pokémon of the battle and held the Poke Ball in his hand to the side. "Only ground type attacks are super effective against him and you neither Gourgeist nor Tyrantrum used one."

"Normally yes but Trick-or-Treat is a special move only a Gourgeist or Pumpkaboo can learn." Diantha explained as she took out her own third Poke Ball. "It's not directly offensive nor is it defensive. All it does is add a ghost type to the Pokémon it hits and yes if the Pokémon is a dual type then it becomes a triple type for the duration of the battle. It's similar to Forest's Curse, a move only Phantump and Trevenant can learn but which adds a grass not a ghost type so if a Pokémon has been hit by that to become a triple type the Trick-or-Treat replaces it or vice versa if the other way around."

"Oh I see, I think May's Phantump knows that Forest's Curst move." Ash said as he understood what had happened. "That would explains it at least. That's a useful move for a ghost type to have as it's one of only two types that is strong against its own type."

"Yup, it's what makes my Gourgeist so strong but your Gengar prevented me from using it at first, a ghost type can't be added to a ghost type after all but so long as it's not a Sableye or Spiritomb, there are no known ghost and normal types I believe, a move like Trick-or-Treat doesn't matter." Diantha said before she tossed out her Poke Ball. "But enough talk, let's continue. I'm counting on you, Hawlucha."

"Agreed, Lucario, I choose you." Ash said a second later as he tossed out his own Pokémon. "A Hawlucha, I know it well."

Diantha just smiled at that as she knew that Ash had a Hawlucha while the two dual fighting types burst from their Poke Balls and landed in front of their respective trainers with their images appeared in the third hexagons on the jumbotron. Instantly the Pokémon sized each other up the way only fighting types can and both came to the same conclusion, they were facing a strong and worthy opponent, which given the nature of the battle they'd expected but this confirmed it. This was going to be good and Lucario grinned as he got ready in front of Ash.

He'd done well during the Lumiose Conference, beaten a trainer singled handed at one point in the preliminary rounds, won a matchup with a Mega Pokémon, and played a strong role in the victory over Paul that claimed the title for Ash. He'd more than proven himself as one of Ash's best, possibly his best fighting type all things considered after the year he'd had, so he'd more than earned his spot in this team.

However, while he could have been selected for Wikstrom's battle he wasn't so he did feel like he had more to prove than some of the others on the team who'd aided Ash in getting to this point. He'd not helped Ash against the Elite Four in that challenge so he had to prove that he was worthy of this honor, of being selected for the biggest battle in Ash's life, of being on the team that could make him a regional Champion, something they fully intended to do.

That was the highest of honors any of his Pokémon could get and those on the team all knew the burden they carried and would give their all for this. Lucario himself drew on Ash's passive aura as he awaited his order ready to do his part in making Ash the Champion of Kalos.

"Lucario, Aura Sphere." Ash said as he kicked off the latest matchup in the full battle.

"Hawlucha, we can't avoid that so best to be ready for the long run and your flying type will resist it regardless." Diantha said as Lucario formed the blue ball of fighting type power between his forepaws. "Swords Dance."

As the ball was blasted out, Hawlucha began a frantic dance that uplifted its fighting spirit. It knew that a move like Aura Sphere couldn't be avoided short of moves like Phantom Force or Dig though it could be blocked.

That wasn't the plan though because Swords Dance would increase Hawlucha's attack and in a battle like this where his secondary type made him resistant to his primary type, Lucario's was the opposite. His secondary steel type made him weak to fighting type attacks and while Hawlucha could tell that this was a strong Lucario it felt like it had the edge at the moment providing that it could land a fighting type attack.

Thus, it took the fighting type attack to the chest just after it finished its dance and staggered back a step. The move was strong but with Hawlucha's resistance it was fine and Diantha was already giving the next order.

"Flying Press." Diantha called out.

"Intercept it with Metal Claw." Ash said as Hawlucha began to run at Lucario with its wings wide.

Lucario barked in agreement at that as he set himself and the spikes on his forepaws morphed into the steel type attack. In this fight he was at the disadvantage as his fighting type attacks were weak against a Hawlucha and his ground type attack wouldn't work, both due to its flying type, his best move was his steel type attack.

Despite that Lucario grinned because these were the challenges he relished, where he could really show his status amongst Ash's Pokémon, and to top it off he'd trained hard with a Hawlucha since he joined the team so he knew the species well. Lucario was not going to let the team down by losing to this Hawlucha.

Naturally Hawlucha had other plans and after only a few paces it leapt into the air. However, unlike Ash's Hawlucha who liked to get high to show off and had to use the corkscrew technique to land a Flying Press attack, Diantha's didn't bother with such theatrics. It just got high enough for it to work before it dove down and at Lucario.

Lucario had to admit, he was impressed by the speed of this Hawlucha and he set himself as it dove towards him. Still, he'd not let Ash down and as Hawlucha reached him he slashed at it with his left claw.

However, Hawlucha showed its skill by slightly angling its wings at the last moment so that it rose just enough to get over the swipe and then dipped down again to slam into Lucario's muzzle. Lucario grunted with pain from the super effective attack, the fighting aspect of Flying Press ensured that, and rolled with it as he could take plenty of damage.

However it wasn't enough to bring him down or even deter him as Lucario fought thought the hit to bring up his right arm and rake the Metal Claw on his right hand up Hawlucha's belly and to its beak to snap its head back as it landed on the its feet. The blow didn't stagger it though but that didn't matter as Ash instantly pressed Lucario's advantage.

"Metal Claw again Lucario." Ash called out.

"Block it with X-Scissor." Diantha said knowing that with Hawlucha's moves a close quarters fight against a steel type wasn't best so she needed Hawlucha to defend and then retreat to create the needed opening for another Flying Press. "And fall back as soon you can."

"You can land that Lucario." Ash said. "I know it. Keep it up, don't let Hawlucha retreat as you use Metal Claw again."

Lucario barked in agreement as the Metal Claw formed for a second time and he attacked while at the same time Hawlucha's talons glowed with bug type power. This was a move that Lucario had trained for though and using Ash's passive aura to boost his speed he stepped forward and closed on Hawlucha before it could bring its attack to bear in any manner.

With two quick slashes, Lucario raked the claws across Hawlucha's face and chest staggering the Wrestling Pokémon back with the blow and increasing his own attack in the process thanks to a potential side effect of Metal Claw. Hawlucha still had its talons glowing though and showed it's training by not breaking focus and swiping them at Lucario but he ducked under them thanks to his training against Ash's Hawlucha as he reformed his Metal Claw and struck again landing it for the third time that battle with a quick rake to Hawlucha's belly.

It was starting to add up just as he wanted but Hawlucha was a Champion's Pokémon, it was well trained and prepared so as the second attack hit it leapt back with the blow and twisted in the air, wings out to retreat and give it the space it needed. Ash wasn't going to let up though and while it wouldn't do as much as he or Lucario would have liked, in a battle like this every hit mattered and a guaranteed one even if resisted could be the decider in the end.

"Aura Sphere." Ash said as Hawlucha fled back. "And then prepare a Metal Claw as soon as you can because I'm sure Flying Press is coming."

"Not a bad observation Ash, just as I'd expect." Diantha said as Lucario barked in agreement and formed the Aura Sphere between his outstretched forepaws. "Hawlucha, you know what to do. Flying Press as soon as you can."

"Hawlucha." Hawlucha said with a nod as the Aura Sphere was blasted out at it.

Rather than turn or stop, Hawlucha actually angled its wings so that it was able it back flip and arc in the air as the Aura Sphere was shot at it. Naturally that ensured that the Aura Sphere moved, tracking the fighting and flying type in a smooth upwards curve before slamming into its back as it reach the top of its backflip which was just what Hawlucha wanted.

That was because it used the hit to toss it up higher as it spun to right itself, facing Lucario thanks to the back flip before it suddenly dove at the fighting and steel type below it, its speed now increased thanks to the momentum from the hit. As it dove, Hawlucha glowed with the power of Flying Press while moving as fast as it could.

This time, though, Hawlucha was even faster thanks to everything so Ash didn't get an order out before Hawlucha slammed headfirst into Lucario's head before he could activate Metal Claw and staggering the Aura Pokémon with a howl of pain from the super effective attack. Despite this Lucario wasn't out yet and while Ash would have preferred to save this move for later like normal, he couldn't risk it so as Lucario was hit he called it out now, aborting the Metal Claw in the process. It would help, he knew it.

"Lucario, Reversal!" Ash said.

"Fall back for another Flying Press." Diantha said but Hawlucha had already landed on the ground after landing its attack which had only staggered Lucario back and now he was moving forward using his momentum to his advantage.

Lucario had used his momentum from his stagger to rock forward and slam his forehead down and into the top of Hawlucha's head to stun him with just his raw strength as if he was back in that fighting type tournament before he unleashed his Reversal. The all out attack would have done more had Lucario taken more damage but he was well past the halfway point in his health from the two fighting type attacks he'd taken, both boosted by Hawlucha's opening Swords Dance, so it was still pretty strong.

Usually this was their last resort move but now they were using it as is and Lucario unleashed on Hawlucha. Still, Hawlucha was resistant to it as Reversal was a fighting type attack but all the attacks were adding up and he could dodge it as the flurry of blows hit it. As it was being hit both Ash and Diantha called out their next attacks to be ready.

"Aura Sphere."

"Flying Press."

Lucario barked as he finished with an uppercut that lifted Hawlucha off its feet and allowed him to get his forepaws up and create the Aura Sphere between his paws. Then, before Hawlucha could act, Lucario blasted it out and at near point blank into Hawlucha's chest.

The result was that Hawlucha was tossed back by the force of the attack but thanks to its flying type it was still in the fight and angled its wings so that it could recover and move high into the air with a grace that Ash's had yet to achieve to get well above the battlefield as a result of the blow before diving at Lucario with Flying Press once again. It was a damned impressive Hawlucha but Ash and Lucario were ready for it.

"Metal Claw." Ash said putting all his love and faith in his words as Hawlucha dove. "You got this Lucario!"

Lucario barked as he let Ash's passive aura fill him to boost his strength and speed and he quickly formed the claws in the backs of his hands and swung his right arm around and down just as Hawlucha reached him. The result was a loud boom as Lucario's Metal Claw slammed into the back of Hawlucha's head so that he was still hit by the Flying Press as the top of Hawlucha's head had hit his clenched paw thus imparting the fighting type attack into Lucario.

The Pokémon seemed to hold this for a moment before Lucario used the fact that he had stable footing to drive Hawlucha down and into the battlefield with a howl. The resulting crash was strong enough to kick up a plume of dust that covered both Pokémon.

There was a tense moment as Ash and Diantha waited to see what was going to happen but finally the dust cleared to reveal a planting but still standing Lucario, paws clenched to his sides and looking down at Hawlucha who was at his feet, head in a small crater and legs in the air for a second before they flopped down as they all saw the swirls Hawlucha had for eyes. Lucario's final blow had been the ending one though he himself was at his own limits he felt.

"Hawlucha is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Diantha's side as Lucario raised his head to howl his victory to the sky and Hawlucha's image went gray bringing the match back to a tie. "Lucario is the winner."

"Hawlucha return." Diantha said and the moment it was recalled Ash pulled out his own Poke Ball and recalled Lucario as well to prevent a potential quick change.

"Lucario, return and take a rest." Ash said looking at the Poke Ball in his hand while Diantha thanked her own Pokémon for doing a great job as well despite losing to Lucario. "You did well my friend, rest up as I may need you later."

"Not bad Ash, I had the advantage there due to the secondary types at play and you still won." Diantha said as she put away Hawlucha's Poke Ball and pulled out her fourth. "But can you keep it up? I'm only just getting warmed up in this battle."

"I can." Ash said with a grin as he did the same ready to keep this going. "There's still plenty of battle left and like you, I'm far from done yet. Leavanny, I choose you."

"I'm counting on you, Aurorus." Diantha said at the same time as she threw out her Poke Ball only a split second after Ash through his.

"Aurorus?" Ash asked as the images of the Pokémon appeared in the 4th hexagons next to their respective trainers. "I've never…oh."

The Pokémon that burst from Diantha's Poke Ball was even taller than Tyrantrum was and thus it towered over Leavanny as it stood close to 9 feet tall at the top of its head. It was also solid as hell being a quadrupedal, dinosaur style Pokémon with a long neck, thick body and legs and a long tail. It was also blue with a lighter blue underbelly and the front of its neck with what looked like ice imbedded along its side and neck and the top of its head in a white V there.

However, the most striking feature was the two, light yellow membrane like things that came from its neck and flowed behind it. They were almost mesmerizing as they seemed to ruffle on their own as Ash and Leavanny looked at them.

While this was a Pokémon that Ash had never seen before he was certain of at least two things as he and Leavanny faced off against it. The first was that it was clearly an ice type at the very least, the ice in it and its color gave that away, and the second was that it had to be the other formerly extinct Pokémon native to Kalos, likely with a pre-evolved form, given that it had a clearly prehistoric appearance to it so Diantha had both in her team for this. This fact was confirmed a moment later.

"I see I surprised you, that is to be expected as there aren't many who have an Aurorus in Kalos." Diantha said. "It and it's pre-evolved form, Amaura, are the other restored Pokémon alongside Tyrunt and Tyrantrum who all went extinct in Kalos long ago."

"I figured as much, usually I'd take the time to check it out but I don't have that." Ash said as he set himself. "I've got to keep on fighting."

"That you do." Diantha said. "And as you can tell, Aurorus is an ice type at least so let's see if you can keep that streak up when it comes to type disadvantages. Aurorus, Blizzard!"

"Steel Wing." Ash said as Aurorus opened its mouth. "Push through it and land that Leavanny, I know you can do that."

Diantha showed no emotions to that as Leavanny sang his name and charged, his appendage things turning to steel as he ran but internally she was impressed with Ash's training. She'd seen this Leavanny against Siebold, it had been the final Pokémon standing in that battle, and knew that it was strong and had this move in its repertoire, one that would be really annoying as Aurorus was also a rock type so both types were weak to steel, so this was good. Not that Diantha wasn't ready for it because she was.

That started with the Blizzard that whipped up and across the battlefield from Aurorus's mouth as Leavanny charged, the ranged nature ensuring that the super effective ice type attack hit him. However, Leavanny wasn't going to let that deter him as he charged.

He'd been shocked when Ash had selected him for this battle until Ash had told him that his main role was to counter rock, ground, and dark types they may face. As such, he wasn't going to pass up his spot on this prestigious team and prove that he was one of Ash's best so a little snow wasn't going to stop him as he plough through the Blizzard barely slowed by it.

As such, Leavanny was able to reach Aurorus and leap at it to slash it in an X pattern on its chest, the blow landing with easy on the big Pokémon and causing it to rear up as it bellowed in pain that was beyond what Ash would expect from a pure ice type. That told Ash everything as Leavanny fell back and the Blizzard died, Aurorus was a dual type and one with its other type also weak to steel.

There were only two types its ice type could be paired with, fairy or rock, but given Diantha's previous status as the rock specialist on the Elite Four and the fact that the only confirmed ice and fairy type was the Alolan variant of Ninetales it had to be rock. That was big as it gave Leavanny an extra advantage in this matchup, one he was going to exploit along with what Steel Wing could do.

"Leavanny, it's part rock type as well." Ash said and Diantha wasn't surprised at all that Ash had deduced that already, he was astute when it came to battles and adapting to changes and revelations in them or else he'd not have made it this far in his challenge. "We've got this, I know it. Use Steel Wing again."

"Reflect." Diantha said as Leavanny leapt at Aurorus his appendages once again steel. "Ash has figured it out but we can still mitigate a physical attack."

"Abort, switch to Energy Ball." Ash said suddenly as a flash of pink appeared before Aurorus showing that the Reflect was now active and would weaken physical attacks but there was only so much it could do against an attack that was doubly super effective though Ash wasn't going to take chances. "That's ranged and our other advantage against Aurorus."

"Leavanny." Leavanny sang as he quickly ended the move before he reached Aurorus and tucked his legs in to kick off its chest as the grass type power filled his mouth.

Then, as he shot back, Leavanny unleashed the Energy Ball at the large Pokémon before him. It was too close, and Aurorus was too big, for the grass type attack to be avoided and slammed into its chest for a second super effective attack. Naturally that wasn't enough to take it down and Diantha was ready both offensively and defensively.

"Hit it with Rock Slide." Diantha said. "Then use Light Screen to add to your defense. This is a strong offensive opponent; we can't take it lightly."

"Clever." Ash said as Aurorus roared and the rocks formed above the battlefield before they began to plummet to the battlefield. "Evade that and send out another Energy Ball before going in for a second Steel Wing, there's only so much Reflect can do to mitigate a steel type attack. We've still got this."

Alas for Leavanny he couldn't evade as he was in the air and while he was able to twist away from the first rock, the next slammed into his chest and drove him into the ground with a crash as dust was kicked up from it to cover his body while the rest of the rocks rained down around him. Still, he wasn't out of it despite the super effective attack and he'd remembered where Aurorus was so he quickly formed and shot the Energy Ball off, the ball of grass type power shooting out of the dust as it continued to rise and at Aurorus.

However, before it could reach the Tundra Pokémon, there was a sudden flash of light before it as the Light Screen was erected adding its own protection to that of the earlier Reflect though it was two moves behind and the Energy Ball seemed to slow as it passed through before hitting Aurorus at the base of its long neck. Thanks to said Light Screen the blow wasn't super effective, just normally effective due to Light Screen halving the damage of the ranged attack but the hits were stacking up and the dust hadn't even settled as Leavanny tore out of it with his appendages steel as he ran over at Aurorus.

Yup, as soon as he'd attacked he'd activated Steel Wing and charged. Diantha had to give it to Ash, despite being known as the Nurturing Pokémon, and Ash's Leavanny lived up to that when back at the ranch as he loved to make clothes for all the small Pokémon that Ash and his mate had, Leavanny was clearly a fighter and it closed in on Aurorus again. Well, that was fine with Diantha and Aurorus.

"Blizzard." Diantha said as the dust from the earlier Rock Slide cleared leaving just broken rubble on the now cracked battlefield where it had hit. "And then Rock Slide again. We've got moves for just as Leavanny has moves for us."

Aurorus bellowed in agreement as it opened its mouth and unleashed another Blizzard at the approaching grass and bug type. Again Leavanny was hit by it before he could reach Aurorus but he powered through it just like he had before and leapt up to slash the Steel Wing into the rock and ice type's chest once more though this time it was only super effective due to the Reflect still being active.

Still, all the damage that Leavanny was inflicting on Aurorus was really adding up and this battle was getting intense as Aurorus staggered back from the blow and Leavanny landed before it. As Leavanny did, Aurorus showed its training by suddenly activating Rock Slide as it staggered so that the rocks formed in the air above Leavanny. However, as it did Ash had a crazy idea.

"Leavanny, dodge and leap onto the tops rocks as they fall." Ash said. "Then use Steel Wing on Aurorus once more."

"Hit it with Blizzard as soon as you can." Diantha said as the rocks fell.

Leavanny understood what Ash was saying and while this was going to be hard, he'd trained for this battle and he wasn't going to let Ash, the team, or any of the Pokémon back home down so he tensed and then moved. It would take all he had but Leavanny was giving his all so he could do it as he leapt back from the first rock before leaping up as it hit the ground and onto the flat top of it as it was breaking apart and kicking up dust.

From there, Leavanny stunned everyone as he leapt from rock top to rock top never letting the Rock Slide actually hit him as he moved through the downpour and towards Aurorus until finally he could leap off and at the larger Pokémon. As he did Leavanny turned his appendages to steel once again just as the last rock hit the ground behind him, dust already high in the air from the impacts, and Aurorus opening its mouth to blast a Blizzard out at Leavanny.

"Leavanny!" Leavanny cried as he reached Aurorus before the Blizzard could come out and slashed the Steel Wing in an X across the rock and ice type's long neck.

The nature of Leavanny's movements ensured that he was past Aurorus and landing behind and to the side of it in a crouch with his arms spread to his sides and head down. As he did Aurorus let out a long, low, groan as the third Steel Wing, combined with two Energy Balls that had totaled three super effective, one ultra effective, and one standard attack on it based on the timings of the hits and the use of Reflect and Light Screen, was enough to push it past its limit as Leavanny landed.

As such, all Aurorus could do was tip to the side and fall to the ground with a crash and swirls for eyes as the dust from the Rock Slide finally cleared. It was an impressive display and Leavanny didn't rise until he heard the crash behind him but he didn't look back as he knew that he'd won this matchup.

"Aurorus is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Diantha's side and causing its image on the jumbotron to turn which also gave Ash his first lead of the match as he officially cut Diantha's team in half to everyone's shock. "Leavanny is the winner."

"Aurorus return, you did well, that's a strong Leavanny with great moves against you but it won't last much longer." Diantha said as she recalled Aurorus and did a quick change as before Ash could swap out himself which he'd been planning on because Leavanny had taken three super effective attacks so he wasn't sure how much more his Pokémon could take and wanted to give Leavanny a rest. "I'm counting on you Goodra, Fire Blast."

"Evade and get in for a Steel Wing." Ash said quickly adjusting to the quick change as Diantha tossed out her Poke Ball and her pure dragon type, one that Ash also had and knew well just like with Diantha's Hawlucha, burst from its Poke Ball with its mouth already open and filling with flames. "We're still in this. Ash won't hold a lead for long."

Unfortunately Leavanny's last move had put him too close to Diantha to evade what was coming and her Goodra was well trained so it was attacking the before it even landed on the ground. It was still in the air when 5 point star of flames burst from Goodra's mouth and shot at Leavanny before he could move and slammed into his chest as Goodra landed on the ground before Diantha.

Between the two Blizzards and Rock Slide he'd take, an attack that both his types were weak to was far too much for Leavanny to handle. The fire wasn't even out yet as a singed Leavanny fell back to hit the ground with swirls for eyes bringing the match back to a tie almost as soon as Ash had taken a brief lead.

"Leavanny is unable to battle." The ref declared raising his red flag to Ash's side and Leavanny's image went gray only seconds after Goodra's had appeared in Diantha's 5th slot. "Goodra wins."

"Leavanny, return, you fought well but that's a Champion for you so don't feel bad about the sudden turn of events, you won a great match and I'm proud of you." Ash said as he recalled his Pokémon and quickly swapped just like Diantha had to keep Goodra in though given what else Diantha had he was expecting it to remain in regardless as he tossed out his next Poke Ball, one he'd already used in this match. "Now Lucario, I need you again. Use Bone Rush."

"Fire Blast again." Diantha said going for the move that she was sure would work as it had a higher accuracy rating than the other good one she had for facing a Lucario as he burst from his Poke Ball for the second time and charging at Goodra as he appeared, a bone made of aura forming in his right paw.

"You got this." Ash said as Goodra blasted out the star of fire again that Lucario continued to run towards trusting Ash to give him the right order which Ash did. "Now, slide!"

Lucario barked and grinned as he suddenly leapt forward and slid feet first like a baseball player so that he slid under the star between the lower two points of it. He had to lean his head back and he could feel the heat as it passed mere inches over his nose but he didn't mind as he slid over the ground like he'd done a few times before as a Riolu when facing some moves only now he was much stronger than he had been when he'd done this as a Riolu.

It was certainly impressive and Diantha's eyes went a little wide at the act as she'd not expected it but Lucario had done it and pulled off an impressive dodge and he wasn't done yet. No, as soon as he was clear he rose his legs and then slammed them into the ground at the same time as he slammed his left forepaw, his right still held the aura bone, so that he launched himself off the ground and in an arc at Goodra.

All Goodra could do was stare as Lucario showed off an impressive dodge that put Lucario in range. It kept staring as Lucario gripped his aura bone in two hands and raised it above his head before he brought it down hard into Goodra's head as he landed in front of it that bent the dragon type's neck down.

That was just the start as Bone Rush was a multi-hit move and he spun the bone in his paws to slam it into Goodra's side as he landed on the ground before bounce off Goodra so Lucario used that momentum to spin around to slam it into Goodra's other side as it staggered in that direction. Finally, Lucario swung the bone up to strike Goodra in the cheek as it finally rose its head following the first blow for a 4 hit attack.

It wasn't enough to take Goodra down but it really showed how strong Lucario was while also showing off some of his other skills. However, as the bone vanished he was too close to avoid anything and Diantha was already ready as Goodra snapped its head down following the final hit from Bone Rush.

"Fire Blast." Diantha said.

"Goodra." Goodra got out as it opened its mouth and blasted down the fire type attack at Lucario before Lucario could take more than a step back, not that he could avoid the attack regardless given how close he was to Goodra following his Bone Rush.

"Lucario!" Ash yelled as the attack hit Lucario in the face, not even needing to form the star that the attack was known for. "Reversal!"

Ash was pouring all his love and encouragement into his words so even with the fourth super effective attack hitting him, Lucario gritted his teeth and drew on all of Ash's passive aura that he could, on the deep bond that they shared that had allowed him to evolve from a Riolu in the first place, to endure the hit with only a sliver of health left. That was enough, though, because as the attack finished Lucario was singed and battered but still standing much to the shock of the crowd and Diantha herself.

Lucario was still standing and he let out a howl and unleashed a maximum power Reversal right into the Goodra before him. He'd traveled and trained with a Goodra just as he had with a Hawlucha, as a fellow Pokémon on Ash's team they were good friends and they'd been on the winning team in the Lumiose Conference final, so Lucario knew the Pokémon well. This Goodra, though, as with the Hawlucha, wasn't his friend, so Lucario was going to use his training with his friend to beat another of its species as he pounded into Goodra with the all-out attack.

It wasn't enough though and while it did a lot of damage Goodra was still standing when the Reversal came to an end. That was just what Diantha needed as she recovered from how impressive Ash's Lucario was, if she had to guess it might actually be better than Korrina's and that was saying something as hers was a strong one, and gave the order to finally defeat Lucario.

"Muddy Water." Diantha said.

Ash didn't get a chance to say anything before the dark brown water bubbled up beneath Lucario and erupted in a wave just like Surf that tossed Lucario back in a high arc to land in a heap Ash's side of the battlefield. It was a strong move that Lucario wasn't resistant to and even if he was he'd still be out with how little health he had left. In fact, he was out cold before he hit the ground and the wave crashed over him. When the water cleared it revealed a wet Lucario on his back, limbs splayed and eyes swirls.

"Lucario is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Ash's side as Lucario's image went gray on the screen and Diantha retook the lead in the match. "Goodra is the winner."

"Lucario, return." Ash said taking a moment to recall and thank Lucario as he knew who he was using next and regardless of whether Diantha kept in Goodra or subbed it out for Tyrantrum, he didn't expect Gardevoir until he'd beaten Diantha's other 5 Pokémon, he knew that he had it. "You were amazing there, really endured those blows and came out with a strong win and a great showing for the team. I'm proud my friend now take a good long rest."

"Stay in Goodra." Diantha said as Ash finished speaking and put his Poke Ball away to pull out his fifth Pokémon of the match. "I've got a good feeling who's next and regardless of who I use this will be tough. Best to keep you in than swap out though both of you have good moves for this Pokémon."

"I figured you'd be able to guess at least one more beyond the two obvious ones." Ash said as he tossed out his Poke Ball while Goodra just nodded at its trainer's assessment. "Charizard I choose you."

"Yup as I expected, your Charizard." Diantha said as Charizard burst form his Poke Ball and landed before Ash with a roar and wings splayed, his Mega Stone not on him this time just as Gengar's hadn't further showing who Ash's Mega Pokémon would be, and ready to do his part in Ash's most important battle even if he wasn't selected for the Mega Pokémon slot though Charizard understood why he wasn't. "I've seen you use it before and heard of its reputation even before seeing what it did to Wikstrom's Mega Scizor so while I'd love to test myself against its Mega Evolution we both know what your Mega Pokémon will be. Facing your Charizard as is will have to be enough, for now."

"Charizard is one of my oldest and strongest, I couldn't not use him against you." Ash said grinning as Charizard sized up the Goodra before him, it was clearly stronger than Ash's but not as strong as he was he deemed though that didn't make it any less worthy as an opponent, it was in this battle so it was worthy enough. "Now Charizard, use Wing Attack and evade what comes at you."

"Dragon Pulse." Diantha counter as Charizard roared and kicked off the ground with is wings wide, Diantha was saving Muddy Water for when she was sure that Goodra wouldn't miss. "Make sure it hits."

Charizard wasn't going to let that happen as he dove at Goodra his wings glowing with power. Charizard was one of Ash's best, the Pokémon many back home considered their trainer's ace, and who'd won one of the Elite Four matches. It was a given that he'd be selected for this team, and while he may not have his Mega Stone he was about to show that he didn't need it as he tore at the Dragon Pokémon.

For its part Goodra was ready and blasted out the shockwave of dragon type power at Charizard as he dove at Goodra. Unfortunately for Goodra though, it was a move that Charizard knew well from training against many dragon types over the years and he easily angled his wings so that he shot down and below it before pulling out of his dive and skimming over the surface of the battlefield and at Goodra as he flew under the Dragon Pulse before rising as he neared his opponent.

The result was that his left wing slammed into Goodra's gut staggering it and imparting standard damage in the process. That was just what Ash needed as it perfectly set up his follow up move, one that was going to be super effective.

"Now, Dragon Tail." Ash said the moment the hit landed.

"Muddy Water." Diantha countered as Charizard's tail glowed with dragon type power. "We can't miss from this range Goodra."

Before Goodra could summon up the water, Charizard beat his wings as he rose from his hit and pulled up to lash his tail around and into the side of Goodra's head imparting the super effective hit with ease and causing Goodra to wail in pain from the blow. It wasn't enough to take Goodra down though, the dragon type was tough Charizard had to give it that, and the Muddy Water bubbled up around him before slamming into Charizard's ass as he pulled his tail in and blasting him up into that air with a bellow from taking a super effective attack himself.

"Use your wings to get high and over the top of the wave before distracting Goodra with a Flamethrower." Ash said. "And follow the flames with Wing Attack."

"Muddy Water again." Diantha said as Charizard flapped his wings and got off the water so that the wave broke and crashed down on Ash's side behind him his mouth open and filling with flames. "Keep that Charizard back from you."

Before Goodra could attack again, Charizard blasted out his powerful Flamethrower that tore down and engulfed Goodra below him. It wasn't that effective, as a dragon type Goodra was resistant to fire type attacks, but the Flamethrower wasn't used for its damage, it was used as a distraction so that Charizard could dive in the wake of it, wings glowing with flying type power and use his speed to be on Goodra just as the fire finished washing over it.

That was exactly what Charizard did and he slammed his right wing into Goodra's chest and drove it back over the surface of the battlefield for a good few feet before Goodra went limp against Charizard's wing. The fully evolved Kalos dragon type may have taken only one super effective attack but it had also taken a maxed out Reversal, 4 strikes from a Bone Rush attack, two Wing Attacks and a Flamethrower so all that damage added up to push Goodra past its limit and it fainted as Charizard was pushing it back.

Charizard noticed this and shoved with the last of he moved before flapping his wings and getting high in the air as he arched back to Ash's side knowing that he'd sone this matchup. As he did Goodra toppled over and hit the ground to roll a few more feet with the last of the momentum from Charizard's shive before coming to a stop on its side, tongue lolling out and swirls for eyes.

"Goodra is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Diantha's side as Goodra's image turned gray on the screen. "The winner is Charizard."

"Goodra, return." Diantha said knowing she had a moment as Ash wasn't going to sub out Charizard just yet given which Pokémon both of them knew were left in this matchup and looking at the Poke Ball in her hand with a smile. "You did great my friend, finished the jobs with Lucario and Leavanny that Hawlucha and Aurorus had started and landed a super effective blow on Charizard for good measure so I'm proud of you. It's almost time but Ash has to beat one more Pokémon for that and this is going to get intense."

"You know it." Ash said with a grin at Diantha's words, even with the roaring crowd he could hear her across the battlefield. "Stay in Charizard, we know who's coming now."

Charizard nodded and got ready to defeat his second opponent of the day. The whole team knew what the final battle would be, they'd heard of the incomplete matchup months ago so it was clear that that matchup would happen again today, and while they all strove to avoid it just to prove themselves they'd still fight to the end to ensure it. However, Charizard was going to do more than that, he was going to face that Pokémon as well to remind everyone that he was the best Ash had. He just had one more obstacle in his path that was about to be sent out.

"True, it's obvious who I'm going to use, I am counting on you again, Tyrantrum." Diantha said as she tossed out the Poke Ball she'd thrown out second in this match and gave her first order, a move Ash had never heard of before, as she went all out on Charizard knowing that this would at least all but knock out the fully evolved Kanto fire type starter. "Head Smash."

"Fly into the air to avoid it." Ash said as he grinned as Tyrantrum lowered its head and charged. "And then it's time, Seismic Toss into Dragon Tail once more and this time both moves will be super effective so I know you won't miss."

Charizard roared in agreement as he flapped his wings and took off just as Tyrantrum neared him thus forcing it to run under Charizard and past him and Diantha couldn't help but grimace as Charizard turned the air and dove at Tyrantrum as it came to a stop to grab it by the tail before it could rise up from its charge. The tail just made the most sense to Charizard as he knew that if he pulled this off he'd almost certainly win this matchup so he was going to do everything he could to ensure he succeeded.

As soon as Charizard had a grip on Tyrantrum's tail Diantha knew what was coming next and while this wouldn't be as bad as what had happened in Ash's battle with Wikstrom due to a lack of Mega Evolution, it would still leave a mark. Regardless, as Charizard beat his wings and hauled a startled Tyrantrum up into the air by its tail, Diantha had a plan to at least make Charizard and Ash pay for this combo even if Tyrantrum was defeated by it.

Naturally they didn't know of this plan as Charizard flapped up and they didn't care. This was a combo they'd pulled off several times by now so they were well versed in it and Charizard was going to give it his all as he used every ounce of strength to ensure that it worked as he lifted the large, heavy, rock and dragon type into the air by its tail and flew to the highest he could mange while the other Pokémon wiggled below him and tried to break free of Charizard's grip.

It couldn't though, Charizard's grip was too strong and as he reached as high as he could seeing as Tyrantrum was twice his weight, but he managed to get it somewhere around the top level of seats in the stadium before he knew he couldn't lift Tyrantrum any further. Therefore, the moment that Charizard realized this, he twisted his body and heaved Tyrantrum around and over him with all that he had as he completed his Seismic Toss.

As he let go of his opponent, Charizard activated Dragon Tail, his tail glowing with dragon type power, and he rolled and spun with the toss so that as Tyrantrum was thrown down to the battlefield he was able to lash his tail down and slam the tip of it into Tyrantrum's gut getting a howl from the other Pokémon at the super effective move as the impact boomed out and Tyrantrum was blasted down to the battlefield below at an increased speed.

However, Diantha wasn't idle and she'd already yelled out her order as the move was happening. The impact on the battlefield might be too much for Tyrantrum, it had taken that Iron Tail from Pikachu earlier and there was no doubt when it came to this Charizard's strength, but Diantha knew that it could land this hit regardless and her Gardevoir would easily finish Charizard when she came out.

"Hyper Beam!"

Despite the situation that it was in, Tyrantrum managed to twist in the air so that Charizard was directly above its mouth and look up at Charizard as it fell, mouth open and filled with an orange light. Then, right as it hit the battlefield, Tyrantrum blasted the Hyper Beam up and at Charizard where he hovering. It helped that Tyrantrum slammed into the battlefield with a boom that shook the platform and kicked up a lot of dust and debris, but it was nothing compared to what had happened when Mega Scizor had hit it, before he blasted the Hyper Beam at Charizard.

That dust obscured everything so Charizard didn't have time to move before the blast of orange light shot through the debris and struck him in the gut at full force blasting him upwards and forcing Charizard to flap his wings hard to get under control as he took the hit but survived it. He was a fully evolved Pokémon; a powerful normal type attack wasn't going to down him even when combined with that super effective Muddy Water that he'd taken earlier though he was certainly feeling it.

However, there was no question that Tyrantrum was feeling it more and Ash didn't doubt that it wasn't down, this was a Champion's Pokémon after all and he'd already seen what was needed to take down Diantha's other Pokémon, which meant that this was the perfect opening to strike and end it as there were very few Pokémon who could take 4 super effective moves, three of which came from a Pokémon like Ash's Charizard, and stay conscious. As such Ash gave the order as the dust continued to billow up from the impact.

"Dragon Tail!" Ash called up. "Dive and if it's out pull up but I doubt it. Regardless, we beat Tyrantrum now."

Charizard roared in agreement before he dove straight down and at the dust that was starting to clear, his tail glowing with dragon type power as he did. A moment later he shot into the dust as Diantha called out to Tyrantrum to endure but she wasn't too hopeful after all it had taken from Pikachu and Charizard.

A few seconds after Charizard entered the dust there a boom from within the dust that they could all hear followed by a groan showing that Tyrantrum had survived the combo at least but now it wasn't clear. It would be soon though as Charizard shot out of the still present dust and spun as he twisted in the air before landing in front of Ash a smirk on his draconic face.

They had to wait for a few moments before the dust finally cleared but when it did the results were obvious. In the center of the battlefield there was a pretty deep crater that took out the entire Poke Ball design in the center and then some with more cracks from it. That would provide an interesting obstacle in a bit but more importantly was the result in the pit and they all looked to see Tyrantrum on its side and slightly imbedded in the ground with its jaw open and swirls for eyes.

Tyrantrum had survived the combo but the final Dragon Tail that had hit it while recovering had been what pushed it over the edge. It wasn't surprising though and already Diantha had her Poke Ball out to recall her Pokémon, the plan to defeat Charizard clear in her mind.

"Tyrantrum is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Diantha's side as Tyrantrum's image grayed and Charizard roared. "Charizard is the winner."

"Tyrantrum, return." Diantha said recalling her Pokémon and smiling at the Poke Ball while Ash and Charizard waited as it was clear that they'd not be changing despite who they knew was coming as the tables had turned and it was on Diantha's shoulders, not Ash's, to set up that matchup to end this battle on. "Take a good long rest, you earned it. That Charizard is tough, many consider it Ash's strongest, stronger than even his Greninja, so you did well. It's finally time for our strongest as we near the desired matchup. Don't worry I'll make sure it happens."

"Folks, I'm on the edge of my seat as you must be!" The announcer said excitedly as his voice was heard by Ash and Diantha for the first time while the latter put away her Poke Ball and pulled put her final one. "In an utterly unexpected twist, Ash is the one with more than one Pokémon left and he's forced Diantha to the brink in a way we've not seen from her since she became our Champion. She's down to one Pokémon but she's far from out of it because we all know what is about to come."

"That we do." Diantha said smiling at Ash as the crowd roared and tossing her Poke Ball high in the air in front of her. "No time for preamble then, I'm counting on you, Gardevoir. Shadow Ball."

"Dodge it." Ash said as Gardevoir appeared before Diantha just as Ash remembered, her image appearing in the final slot on the jumbotron and her mouth already open before she landed on the battlefield. "Then use Flamethrower."

"Not bad but I've been preparing for your Greninja, Ash, and it's something that will work on Charizard as well." Diantha said as the Shadow Ball was shot at Charizard but he took off and into the sky to avoid it as he flew towards Gardevoir to ensure he had a better chance of hitting it with his Flamethrower. "Thunderbolt then use Psychic to redirect that Flamethrower."

"Gardevoir." Gardevoir said as her whole body coursed with electricity before it shot off just as Charizard reached the apex of his ascension into the air and opened his mouth.

The Thunderbolt was fast and hard, even Pikachu would have been impressed by it as it tore up and slammed into Charizard's chest causing him to roar in pain from the super effective attack he'd taken. It was bad but he could endure and he pushed through it to blast out a gout of flames right at Gardevoir as the Thunderbolt ended though it was a few seconds after he'd intended to use the attack.

Those few seconds would be critical because as the fire shot down at her, that time was just enough for Gardevoir to glow blue and reached her arms up so the fire glowed blue and she slightly redirected it so that it veered enough to the side to just miss her. It was impressive and reminded everyone why she was a Champion's ace but that was a spot Charizard wanted so he wasn't giving up as he dove after his flames realizing that the distance had been too great to guarantee the hit, something he intended to rectify and trusting Ash to know what to do. He did.

"Flamethrower one more time." Ash said playing on Charizard's dive. "I know you won't let that happen again."

"Thunderbolt." Diantha countered as Charizard opened his mouth and fire blasted out.

Even Diantha realized what was going on. Charizard was one of Ash's best for a reason and in that moment it showed its training because it knew that if it got closer to Gardevoir then she couldn't redirect the fire to the side like she'd just done. Charizard had trusted Ash to understand it, which Ash did when he gave the order.

It showed how deep their bond was but seeing as Ash could Mega Evolve his Charizard it made sense that they could pull something like this off. It was clever and would land but that was why Diantha had gone for Thunderbolt because it would also ensure that she could take down Charizard at the same time even if Gardevoir took the hit in the process.

That was seen as the flames tore at Gardevoir as she began to glow with electricity. She couldn't do much about the fire, Charizard was too close so it quickly slammed into her and engulfed her but she wasn't weak to fire type attacks, or resistant for that matter, so she could withstand it and countered as she blasted her Thunderbolt up and at Charizard as the fire engulfed her. She'd take the hit if it meant landing a stronger attack in return.

It worked because the bolt of electricity shot out of flames and slammed into Charizard's face and he grunted in pain as he took a third super effective attack of the day and flipped back as he fell from the sky to crash into the crater he'd created when he'd used his combo on Tyrantrum. However, this was where Charizard showed his own pedigree as he'd taken three super effective attacks and a Hyper Beam but he still wasn't out of this matchup as he got to his feet, what looked like the last sparks of Thunderbolt sparking on his body as he grinned at Gardevoir.

He'd face one of that kind before and won, though admittedly that one hadn't been nearly as strong as this one was. That was fine with Charizard though because he was going to do his all to beat this one as well and Ash was more than ready for it with his next order.

For her part, Gardevoir was impressed with this Charizard as few Pokémon could land a hit on her these days other than that Greninja but now she was facing a Charizard who could, a Charizard who shared the same trainer as that Greninja did. Hell, it might have the potential to beat her if it had started the fight fully healthy but she didn't intend to find that out and neither did Diantha as she gave her command at the same time as Ash. This may seem to be overkill but it was necessary given the Charizard she was facing.

"Wing Attack Charizard." Ash said. "Dodge anything that comes at you."

"Thunderbolt one more time." Diantha called out as Charizard roared. "We've got this Gardevoir."

What happened next was, well, proof that those sparks were something more as the moment Charizard tried to take off he spasmed and sparks coursed over him as he let out a roar of rage at the sudden seizing up of his body while Gardevoir's body glowed with electricity. Charizard had been paralyzed by the second Thunderbolt, a potential side effect of it that had been triggered, and while Gardevoir didn't really want to win like this she wasn't going to pass it up as she blasted off her third Thunderbolt down at Charizard.

As with the other two the bolt of electricity flew true and slammed home to hit Charizard in the chest as he spasmed and grimaced. Even with his strength the third Thunderbolt was too much for him and all he could do was let out a groan as he crashed back and hit the ground on his back, wings splayed and eyes swirls. At least he'd landed a hit and taken out two Pokémon with assists from others in the team. That was a good showing and he'd set things up for the dramatic end that was only fitting for a battle like this.

"Charizard is unable to battle." The ref declared raising a red flag to Ash's side as Charizard's image grayed on the jumbotron leaving Ash with only the empty 6th slot active. "Gardevoir is the winner."

"Charizard, return." Ash said recalling his Pokémon and smiling at the Poke Ball in his hand as he took a moment because there wasn't much that Diantha could do as she was on her last Pokémon as well. "You did great old friend, really helped us get back in this battle and toke out some tough foes. You even landed a hit on Gardevoir and showed your toughness until the very end, I couldn't be prouder of what you did. Take a good, long rest, you earned it. It's time to end it."

"Folks, this is it!" The announcer said his excitement at levels Ash hadn't heard before and for good reason as Ash put his Poke Ball away and pulled out his final one. "This epic battle will come down to the last Pokémon standing and after the Lumiose Conference I'm sure we all know what Ash has saved for last. We didn't see it in the challenge but Ash has used two Pokémon he can Mega Evolve without Mega Evolving, in fact he clearly removed their Mega Stones just to be safe, so this as to be it. This will be a matchup that will go down in Kalos's lore I am sure."

"At last, here we are Ash." Diantha said smiling wider than she had all match as this was what she and Gardevoir had really been looking forward to, it was the cherry on top of the epic battle that they'd already had. "Send him out, it's time we end this match the way it should be ended."

"I couldn't agree more, this is just how it should end." Ash said as he tossed out his Poke Ball. "Greninja, I choose you. Double Team."

"Right into it I see, I expected no less." Diantha said as the familiar Greninja who had really pushed her a while back burst from his Poke Ball, his image appearing on the jumbotron as the final one in Ash's team, and instantly creating a series of shadow clones before he even landed on the battlefield. "Alright, strafe Shadow Ball to find the real one then use Moonblast the moment that you can Gardevoir."

"Night Slash." Ash said as the final matchup began with Gardevoir opening her mouth to form the first of several Shadow Balls as all the Greninjas formed blades of darkness and charged at Gardevoir as she began to fire off the Shadow Balls. "Make sure you land it Greninja."

Both Pokémon had wanted this battle since their first ended prematurely because Ash and Greninja couldn't hold the final stage of the Battle Bond phenomenon after Gardevoir pushed them to reach it for the first time. That battle had been the first in a long time to truly test Gardevoir, the first to force her human to actually take things really seriously and Mega Evolve her to match a power they were facing lest Gardevoir actually lose, but alas it hadn't been concluded.

It was a matter of pride that they finish this off and what better way than as the final matchup in a full battle where the title of Champion of Kalos was on the line. Really there was no way other than to finish it like this when you thought about it.

Despite the implications of the matchup, that was in the backs of the minds of the Pokémon involved because right now they had to focus on the battle as the Shadow Balls began shooting out and hitting Greninja clones as they closed in on Gardevoir. However, none of the balls landed on the real one and before Gardevoir could reach the real Greninja was in front of her having leapt over the crater, his opening appearing as he landed and instantly he slashed both blades across her chest sending her staggering back as the higher than normal critical hit ratio trigger and she let out a hiss of pain.

Thankfully her fairy type, that had been a welcome addition when the change happened, mitigated her psychic type's weakness to dark type attacks making it standard effectiveness though it still hurt more than normal thanks to the critical hit triggering. Of course that wasn't nearly enough to take her out and she was already countering as she staggered back and borrowing the power of the moon her arms raised as she did before she lowered them hard and fast as she attack.

The blast of fairy type power shot down and slammed into Greninja's chest before Ash could get an order off and blasted him back over the crater in the battlefield to land on Ash's side and roll a few times upon landing. The hit was super effective but he was strong and quickly got up and Ash grinned. This battle had already been intense and a quick exchange to start this final matchup, the matchup that they'd been really looking forward, was all that Ash and Greninja needed to hit the same battle wavelength and trigger Greninja's ability.

"That's it Greninja." Ash said as he and Greninja felt their bond connect. "It's time to get stronger and stronger and stronger, together!"

"Greninja!" Greninja said as the golden helix formed between them and the water spout burst from nowhere to show that Battle Bond had been activated.

The moment it happened Diantha knew that she couldn't hold back at all. She'd face Greninja before and that was when this was imperfect, now it was perfected and so she and Gardevoir were going to match its power right away. As such the moment that the golden helix appeared Diantha flicked up her pendant and caught it in her right hand so that she was in full contact with her Key Stone.

"Gardevoir, Mega Evolve!" Diantha called out as the water burst off Greninja and coalesced on his back to form the giant water shuriken there as he finished his change into Ash-Greninja while Gardevoir's Mega Stone glowed and the tendrils of Mega Energy shot out form it. "This is it; we're giving this our all because that's what Ash and Greninja deserve."

The moment they connected Gardevoir glowed and she changed so that for the third time in his tenure in Kalos Ash was now facing a Mega Gardevoir and as with the last two times he was facing Mega Gardevoir with Ash-Greninja. This was the second time these two Pokémon were facing off at their peaks so both knew the other well as their changes ended and the final matchup of the battle kicked into top gear.

"Double Team." Ash said. "Into Water Shuriken."

"Thunderbolt!" Diantha called out as Ash-Greninja leapt into the air and several shadow clones of him appeared as did. "Sweep it through them to hit the real one."

"Gardevoir." Mega Gardevoir sang as her whole body lit up with electricity while all the Ash-Greninja's grabbed the Water Shuriken on their backs and ripped them off, tossing them at the same time in a move that Ash mirrored where he was due to their connection.

The result was a swarm of Water Shurikens hurtling through the air and converging on Mega Gardevoir though only one of them was real. She wasn't focused on that as she cried and unleashed her Thunderbolt, sweeping it through the Ash-Greninjas and Water Shurikens as fast as possible.

Unlike with the Shadow Balls early, this time the Thunderbolt found its target and Ash-Greninja was hit in the side with the super effective attack thus tossing Ash-Greninja sideways as he spasmed while Ash felt it as well through their bond and grimacing but he grinned through. That was because the real Water Shuriken found its target and slammed into Mega Gardevoir's chest and staggered backwards as Ash-Greninja landed on his own feet and quickly moved to get back in front of Ash as they prepared for their next attack which Ash already had lined up.

"Night Slash." Ash said and instantly Ash-Greninja pushed off the ground and rushed at Mega Gardevoir running around the crater as the blades of darkness formed in his hands in reverse grips.

"Moonblast." Diantha called out.

"Dodge it." Ash said as he saw through Ash-Greninja's eyes through their connection and they both knew what to do as Mega Gardevoir let out a cry and borrowed the power of the moon and blasted it down at Ash-Greninja for the second time in this engagement.

However, this time Ash-Greninja made a cut right before the blast of fairy type power could hit him and kart wheeling into the crater thus avoiding the super effective attack that slammed into the ground right where he'd been a second after he leapt. Then, the moment that Ash-Greninja landed he bent his knees and pushed off the ground and right at Mega Gardevoir, shooting out of the bottom of the crater at full speed as the Moonblast ended.

Before Mega Gardevoir or Diantha could react, Ash-Greninja was on the Embrace Pokémon his right hand blade slashing upwards at the sudden opening his dodge had caused so that the tip just grazed along Mega Gardevoir's chest as she backed up from Ash-Greninja's leap at her thus going through the two protrusions on her chest and slamming into her chin to snap her head back though this time the critical hit didn't trigger.

"Again." Ash said his own fists clenched as he began to mirror Ash-Greninja as they pressed Mega Gardevoir with a series of orders in rapid succession with the goal of overwhelming the psychic and fairy type. "Night Slash, Aerial Ace, Night Slash!"

Ash-Greninja obliged as the blades of darkness formed again and he pressed Mega Gardevoir as she staggered back. In training for this, Ash-Greninja had worked with Lucario to master this kind of close quarters fighting with a handheld, weapon-like move, and it was showing as both blades slashing as Mega Gardevoir got her footing so that one scored a line across her face and the other her gut this third Night Slash triggering a critical hit like the first. Naturally Diantha wasn't idle and gave her own commands knowing that Mega Gardevoir would strike the moment she could.

"Blast it back with Thunderbolt and then use Moonblast." Diantha as the blades vanished and all of Ash-Greninja's extremities glowed with flying type power as he leapt off the ground and at the staggering Mega Gardevoir.

Again the distance was too close for Mega Gardevoir to properly act and as Ash-Greninja leapt he spun to kick Mega Gardevoir in the face which staggered her even more and that was followed by Ash-Greninja's other foot slamming into her side before he landed and jabbed both forepaws into chest right between that protrusion thing with two quick punches one after the other. As soon as that was over the Aerial Ace ended and two more blades of darkness appeared in reverse grips that Ash-Greninja slashed at Mega Gardevoir to complete the press as Ash mirrored him.

However, by this point Mega Gardevoir had gotten her feet under her and adapted to the rhythm of the attack so she was already sparking with electricity. As a result the Night Slash had to be quick and Ash-Greninja was quick with it as he stuck her in an X shape across her chest just before she was fully coated in electricity as that was where the opportunity was.

Again a critical hit was triggered but a by now battered and marred Mega Gardevoir pushed through it as she yelled and a bolt of electricity shot off her and slammed into Ash-Greninja's chest with enough force to blast him back and across the crater back to his side of the battlefield. The hit caused Ash to grunt in pain from their bond.

That had been expected though, they were far too close to avoid any counter that Mega Gardevoir had and Ash was already getting ready as he rubbed his chest, a grimace on his face as he shared Ash-Greninja's pain. Meanwhile Diantha was no longer smiling, her face set as it was clear things were reaching the climax as Mega Gardevoir raised her arms to the sky and borrowed power from the moon. She brought her arms down fast and a blast of fairy type power shot down and right onto Ash-Greninja just as he came to a stop on the other side of the crater.

The bast drove Ash-Greninja into the ground and kicked up a large amount of dust as he let out a cry of pain that Ash matched but he pushed through it as he could feel through their bond that Ash-Greninja was still in this fight. There wasn't much more he could take, he'd already taken 4 super effective attacks after all, but he and Ash would go to the wire to win this and Mega Gardevoir was on the ropes as well, she'd taken three critical hit Night Slashes, one non critical one, an Aerial Ace, Water Shuriken, and Flamethrower so she too was close.

In fact both Ash and Diantha, along with their Pokémon, knew that this was it, it had to be and to that end Ash-Greninja leapt up and out of the smoke just as Ash wanted and high into the air. As he did his right forepaw went to the 4 point shuriken of water on his back with Ash mirroring it.

"Water Shuriken!" Ash yelled.

"Moonblast!" Diantha shouted her right arm going up with Mega Gardevoir's as her Pokémon raised her arms once more.

The trainers moved their arms at the same time, Diantha bringing hers down as Mega Gardevoir once again borrowed the power of the moon and brough her own arms down while Ash yanked off and tossed an imaginary shuriken that Ash-Greninja did for real as he reached the apex of his leap. It was clearly the climax of the battle and no one could look away as the attacks tore across the battlefield.

The Water Shuriken shot down as it spun before arching towards Mega Gardevoir skimming over what would have been the ground where there was now a crater before moving up once it was past and slamming into her gut with a massive explosion of water that covered her in a dense mist as she was tossed on her back. At the exact same time, the power of the moon slammed into Ash-Greninja's face and chest as he began to fall to the ground and drove him back first into it with enough force to kick up a dust cloud simultaneously obscuring both Pokémon from everyone's view.

Ash was grimacing in pain from the Battle Bond but he was still standing which was a sign that Ash-Greninja was fighting to remain conscious while Diantha's own deep bond told her that for the moment Mega Gardevoir was still in it. This was proven as the dust and mist cleared to reveal the two powerful Pokémon on their backs, clearly battered from what they'd taken and panting as they stared up at the sky with clear eyes.

"Get up Greninja." Ash called out pouring his love and faith into his words. "We will win this!"

"Gardevoir, I know you can stand." Diantha said doing exactly the same. "This match is ours!"

Both Pokémon heard their humans and felt their love. They knew that they could do it and with groans both rolled onto their sides, placed their hands on the ground, and pushed as they slowly began to get up as the crowd watched in silence.

This had already been a match for the ages and now it would be discussed as one of the greatest ever battles in the history of Kalos as the entire full battle came down to this. So much passion and power was on display for all to see as the reigning Kalos Champion and the challenger who swept the Elite Four duked it out to the very last moment.

Of course all this was lost on Ash and Diantha as they watched Ash-Greninja and Mega Gardevoir slowly get to one knee almost mirroring each other as they got up before they slowly began to rise to their full heights. This was a battle that they'd wanted a conclusion to and now they'd have it as the Pokémon got their feet under themselves and finally stood at their tall and proud as they looked across the battlefield at each other, their eyes locked and filled with nothing but respect for the other in that moment.

Ash-Greninja and Mega Gardevoir held each other's gaze for a long moment that felt like forever as all sound around them, even the words of encouragement coming from their humans, fell away. Both knew that this was it, this was the battle of wills as neither had the strength to attack so it would all came down to who could hold out longer.

They'd given their all, fought hard to the bitter end and finally there would be a conclusion to their battle as they drew on their trainers for support to remain standing as they endured their final faced. However, in the end one of them was just slightly more damaged than the other and thus couldn't outlast the other.

With a groan of sadness, Mega Gardevoir felt her eyes roll up into her head as she could no longer hold out in this battle of will anymore and she began to fall forward. In the end it was that Flamethrower she'd taken that had been the decider, it had been Charizard's assist that had ensured Ash-Greninja's victory but for now that didn't matter. All that did was that Mega Gardevoir fell forward as everyone stared.

It seemed to happen in slow motion as the ace of the Kalos Champion pitched face first towards the ground of the battlefield before she hit it with a soft thump, arms to her sides and head turned to face the ref showing him that she had swirls for eyes as those in the stadium and watching at home in Kalos and all over the world stared at the sight. A second later there was a flash of light and Gardevoir returned to normal as she remained in the position that she'd fallen in.

Even then it took the ref a moment to process things given which of the Pokémon had fainted but he was a professional and so he was able to do so before anyone else could. As such, and with a slight tremble in his voice, he made the final call of the match.

"Gardevoir is unable to battle." The ref announced raising his red flag to Diantha's side before producing a green one and raising it to Ash's side as Gardevoir's image turned gray on the jumbotron leaving only Greninja's lit out of the 12 Pokémon that were on the screen. "Greninja is the winner. D, Diantha is out of Pokémon so the winner of the match is the challenger, Ash Ketchum of Pallet Town."

It took everyone a moment to process what had happened, especially Ash who just stared wide eyed and open mouthed at what had happened at the end of the battle. However, when it did sink it the stadium erupted in cheers as the fireworks went off above it. The Champion of Kalos had just been defeated which meant one thing, there was now a new Champion of Kalos and his name was Ash Ketchum.

I just couldn't resist ending this Part here but there it is, Ash has defeated Diantha and become the Kalos Champion after an epic battle and a final conclusion to Ash-Greninja v. Mega Gardevoir battle, with a slight assist from Charizard but such is the nature and strategy of a full battle. Ash's long journey in Kalos has ended with the ultimate victory and now it's time to celebrate it but there is one burning question now that Ash is a regional Champion: what next? Well, soon that will be answered as the year in Kalos comes to an end and we look to the horizon for what is next for Ash and Dawn. That is all that I have for this Part, after a battle like this there really isn't much to say so I will leave it off here. As always if you like my work then please favorite (both this story and me in general to be notified of any new content I post), if possible leave a review as I really like hearing what you think of my work and your suggestions that help complete this story (and respond as best I can) and just in general keep enjoying my work. Until next time.

Stringdog