Pokémon Black and White
Chapter Forty-Five
Club Battle Finale: A Hero's Outcome
"Alright!" comes the loud roar from the referee. He looks to Ash, then Misty before throwing both arms into the air. "Begin!"
"Palpitoad, I choose you!" Ash cries, soon releasing his Pokémon of choice onto the field.
Ash's Palptioad emerges, swinging his tongue through the air.
Misty has her arm extended in front of her, palm facing up. With a prideful smirk and even gaze, she brings her arm close, hand touching her shoulder, before sweeping it in front of her. She makes her Pokémon of choice known.
"Misty calls Marill!"
Misty's Marill gives a confident huff, walking onto the battlefield with its head held high.
"So, she's using Marill." Ash muses. "'Kay, Palpitoad, let's start off strong! Use Hydro Pump!"
"That's the game you're playing, huh?" Misty muses with a grin of her own. "Dodge and use Bubble Beam!"
Heeding his trainer's order, Palpitoad releases a huge stream of water from his mouth. The Hydro Pump soars through the air. Marill jumps out of the way of the attack, launching one of its own. Puffing out its cheeks, Marill releases an array of white bubbles tinged with blue for Palpitoad. Given the incredible speed of the Bubble Beam, Palpitoad can only take the full brunt of the attack.
"Marill lands the first move: an extraordinary Bubble Beam!" Freddy shouts.
"Certain moves are undoubtedly stronger than others." Don George says, nodding. "However, with the right training, even the unassuming Ember can be as fearsome as a Flamethrower. Perhaps even a Blast Burn."
"Palpitoad, are you alright?" Ash says.
Palpitoad's response is to stand tall, staring down Marill.
Ash nods, looking over at Marill himself.
"Great job, Marill!" Misty praises. "Now to keep up the pressure! Use Water Gun!"
Marill fires a spiral of water at Palpitoad, the Water Gun not only hitting its mark, but striking Palpitoad in the face. Palpitoad sputters, spitting out water. Considering his grimace, he looks more frustrated than wounded.
"That's what I like to see!" Ash cheers. "It's our turn; Palpitoad, use Supersonic!"
Taking a step back and a deep breath, Palpitoad releases a wave of piercing frequencies from his mouth. The sound waves travel through the air, upsetting several of the spectators and Freddy. But none feel the effects of the Supersonic quite as much as Marill. Head swaying from side to side, Marill starts teetering on its feet.
Misty frowns, looking concerned and just a little bit peeved. "Hang in there, Marill!"
"Palpitoad, attack with Mud Shot!"
Palpitoad jumps into the air. Spinning around once, he extends his tongue from his mouth. His tongue glowing a bright yellow, Palpitoad swings it through the air. In the process, he fires several brown spherules for Marill, each of them striking a confused and disoriented Marill.
"Marill!" Misty cries.
"Looks like Marill's in a tight spot." Stephan remarks, nodding at the battlefield.
"I'll say." Luke says, zooming in on Marill before moving on to Palpitoad, the latter dropping back down to the ground. "Aside from the confusion, it's taken a lot of damage from that Mud Shot."
"Meanwhile, Palpitoad's acting like it doesn't have a care in the world!" Iris remarks, Palpitoad proving the truth in such words. He's busy hopping from one foot to the other.
Misty grits her teeth.
"Marill!" it cries, shaking its head twice. It looks across the field at Palpitoad, the two soon indulging in a staring contest.
"Our turn, now!" Misty says, thrusting an arm out. "Marill, use Water Pulse!"
Marill glows light blue for a few short moments. The light dims and Marill opens its mouth, revealing a shifting orb of blue energy. Marill fires the Water Pulse, the attack soaring through the air.
The attack is so quick, Ash doesn't have even a second to consider barking out a command. The Water Pulse collides with Palpitoad, drenching him in water. Judging by the way he starts wobbling on his feet, that's not the only thing that happened.
"Palpitoad, no!"
"Great work, Marill!" Misty praises, bringing a fist close to her side.
"What a thrilling upset!" Freddy cries, even rising to his feet. "After being afflicted by Confusion two separate times, Misty and her Pokémon strike back against their foes!"
"I would like to state something clearly for the audience." Don George says whilst Freddy sits back down, the excitable man looking between Marill and Palpitoad. "It is true that Water Pulse and other such moves can induce Confusion in Pokémon. However, this is a secondary effect that has a low probability of occurring. Please keep this in mind when battling and using moves like Water Pulse."
The spectators look from Don George to the battlefield, the fight continuing.
"Okay, Marill!" Misty cries. "Use Water Pulse one more time!"
Glowing light blue, Marill fires another sphere of blue energy. It soars through the air, the Water Pulse slamming right into Palpitoad. Upon taking the full brunt of the attack, Palpitoad teeters on his feet before falling backwards onto the ground.
But Palpitoad is not beaten just yet. Groaning, Palpitoad struggles to his feet. Standing straight, shaking his head once, Palpitoad shakes off the effects of Confusion.
"Palpitoad, you okay?" Ash asks.
"Palpitoad!" comes the defiant cry.
Ash nods. "Palpitoad, let's give this next attack everything we have! Use Hydro Pump!"
"Marill, you do the same!" Misty shouts, thrusting her arm out. "Use Water Gun!"
Palpitoad and Marill maintain eye contact for several tense moments. A look of sheer joy passing over their faces, both of them take a step back. They each take a single moment before readying their attacks.
Puffing out its cheeks, Marill releases a huge spiraling blast of water straight for Palpitoad. As for Palpitoad, he releases a giant stream of water from his mouth. Rings of light blue appear around Palpitoad's Hydro Pump as it gets closer and closer to Marill.
Palpitoad's Hydro Pump and Marill's Water Gun soon meet in the air. They battle each other for a few seconds before the Hydro Pump overpowers the Water Gun. Marill's eyes go wide right as the Hydro Pump slams into her.
The force knocks Marill backwards.
"Marill." it mutters weakly, waterlogged and unconscious.
"Marill is unable to battle!" the referee decrees, raising his left arm in Ash and Palpitoad's direction. "The winners are Palpitoad and Ash!"
"We did it, Palpitoad!" Ash shouts, pumping his fists in at his sides.
"Pika Pika!"
Palpitoad huffs, holding himself proudly.
"We'll get 'em next time." Misty says whilst the giant electronic screen changes to show the result. Misty's portrait disappears and Ash's takes center stage. Below his portrait, the word "WINNER" shines, glittering gold.
Misty says nothing more, the spectators more than eager to fill the silence. She crosses the distance between her and her Pokémon. Misty picks Marill up, patting it on the head.
"Good one, Ash!" Stephan remarks.
Iris nods. "Misty battled really hard, too!"
In the stands, Cilan is much more subdued with his commentary. He takes a deep breath, a hand over his heart.
"Marill possessed an earnest exuberance, wanting to battle to the best of its ability," he says. "However, Palpitoad's well-balanced, harmonic attacks were key. The key to victory!"
"True to form, Ash's tactics were simply unrelenting which made for an exemplary battle!" Don George remarks.
"You said it, Don George!" Freddy remarks, the screen behind them changing once again to show Luke and Iris' portraits side by side. "Now, let's get ready for the penultimate battle before the thrilling final round! It's going to be Luke versus Iris!"
Ash and Misty soon vacate the battlefield, joining up with Iris, Luke and the others before the next battle begins.
"You really rocked out there!" Stephan remarks, clapping Ash on the shoulder. He glances at Misty. "Both of you!"
"Hey, thanks!" Ash says.
"Are you two ready?" Misty asks, looking between Luke and Iris.
"I'm always ready!" Iris declares, pumping a fist in the air.
"I'm still a little nervous," Luke admits. "But I'll give it my all! Before that, can I ask you for a favor, Misty?"
"Huh?" Misty says, sharing a look with Marill. "A favor?"
Luke and Iris stand on opposite ends of the battlefield.
Iris stares straight ahead, focus unwavering.
Luke looks to his fellow competitors, grinning when he sees his camera honed in on him. Misty peers through Luke's camera, holding it steady. Next to her stand Ash - with Pikachu on his shoulder and Marill in his arms - and Stephan. Nearby are Georgia, Dino and Trip, each of them standing alone.
"Hey!" Iris shouts. "Concentrate on our battle and not on something else!"
"Right!" Luke says, turning to face Iris. "A battle and a film may be entirely different, but they have one thing in common: you need to give a hundred percent!"
"Are both competitors ready?" the referee asks.
"We are!" Luke and Iris assert.
"Alright!" the referee says. "Begin!"
"Time for my star!" Luke exclaims. He releases his Pokémon of choice as a flock of Pidove soar overhead. "That's Golett!"
Golett appears on the battlefield, flexing its arms.
"Axew," Iris says, Axew perched on her shoulder. "Ready?"
"Ew!" he cries, jumping off Iris' shoulder to land on the battlefield.
"Axew, remember this is the first time you've ever been in a tournament, so do your best!" Iris says.
In response, Axew smacks his face several times to psych himself up. Axew glares at Golett, a fierce expression on his face.
"Golett is both a Ground- and Ghost-type Pokémon," Don George says. "While Axew is a Dragon-type. It's the compatibility of their types that will decide how this battle plays out!"
"Now, Axew, Scratch!" Iris shouts, intent on making the first move.
Axew charges forward, swiping his right claw across Golett's chest before retreating. Both he and Iris look troubled when Golett doesn't look the least bit injured. Worse still, Golett lifts a hand to scratch at its chest, unbothered.
Iris gasps. "What happened?!"
"Uh oh." Ash says. "Golett's a Ghost-type, which means a Normal-type move like Scratch won't do a thing!"
Misty focuses the camera on Axew. "Unless you use a move like Foresight, first."
"Duh, she should've known that ."
Ash and the others look to see Georgia. She pushes herself off the wall, crossing her arms over her chest.
"That's one of the most basic rules of Pokémon battling." Georgia continues. " Please ! And she really wants to be a Dragon Master?"
"Remember, the battle's just getting started!" Ash says. Misty and Stephan turn back around, focusing on the ongoing battle. "She's got plenty of time to turn it around!"
Georgia rolls her eyes at Ash's back. She leans back against the wall, looking askance.
"Now, use Mega Punch!" Luke shouts. "Let's go!"
Golett sprints along the ground. Rearing its arm back, Golett slams its fist right into Axew. The attack sends up a cloud of dirt, knocking Axew to the ground. Despite this, Axew stands strong.
"Axew." he mutters, wearing an expression just as determined.
"You can do it, Axew!" Iris says.
Axew glances back at her, giving Iris a thumbs-up.
"That's it!" Iris cheers. "Now show 'em your power with Dragon Rage!"
Leaning back, Axew gathers a light blue sphere of energy in his stomach. Axew's Dragon Rage builds, the sphere growing and growing.
Luke has a different battle plan in mind.
"Golett, Double Team!"
Golett uses Double Team, multiple shifting images of it appearing next to and around Golett. When Golett is done, there's five of them on the field in total.
Axew fires off a crackling burst of bluish-black energy from his jaws. The Dragon Rage passes through two Golett, the images from the Double Team disappearing.
Iris gasps and Axew's eyes go wide when the real Golett appears in front of Axew, remarkably unharmed.
"Now, use Gyro Ball!" Luke shouts.
The three images of Luke's Golett jump up, their arms and legs glowing a bright light blue. Their heads, arms and legs retreat into their bodies as they begin to spin. They spin around and around, rolling around the ground in a display that is terrifying as it is disorienting.
Iris glances this way and that. "Which is the real one?"
The Golett spin across the ground, moving around each other to further confound their opponent.
"How's Axew gonna dodge?!" Ash says.
"Pika!"
"Axew, keep an eye on all of them!" Iris says.
"Ew!"
Axew's confidence wanes when the original Golett and his two doppelgangers separate from each other. Axew looks around, unable to keep track of all three at once. The three Golett slam into him, Axew feeling the damage of the Gyro Ball. The collision sends up dust and a myriad of blue sparks.
"Axew, no!" Iris cries.
The dust clears, showing a battered Axew. Nonetheless, he struggles to his feet.
"You okay?" Iris asks.
"Axew!"
"Alright!" Iris cheers. "Use Dragon Rage one more time!"
"Golett, Shadow Ball!"
The three Golett converge on each other, merging into one. Luke's Golett jumps, gathering a sphere of writhing purple and black energy in its hands.
Axew releases another blast of bluish-black energy the same time Golett fires a Shadow Ball. The two attacks meet in the air, culminating in an explosive blast of blinding yellow light and black smoke. The smoke clears, revealing nothing of note.
Luke hums to himself, bringing out his clapperboard with a cry of: "Now finish with Gyro Ball!"
Luke's Golett starts spinning once more, a flash of blue energy racing across its body.
"Dodge it, Axew!" Iris orders.
As Golett rolls towards Axew, he starts running away from his foe.
"Keep chasing Axew 'til you nail the move!" Luke orders.
Axew continues running away from Golett and Golett continues spinning around and around in its pursuit of Axew.
"Can Axew keep avoiding Golett this way?" Freddy wonders.
Axew not only starts to slow down, he collapses on the ground. He's able to battle, but clearly quite exhausted. Axew turns wide eyes on his incoming foe, feeling frustrated and helpless. That is, until the anger sets in and his eyes turn red.
Iris, seeing only her precious Pokémon about to get clobbered by Gyro Ball, cries out in distress.
"No, Axew, no!"
Her distress turns to confusion when she doesn't see an unconscious Axew pancake. Instead what she — as well as everyone else in the stadium — sees is Luke's Golett flying through the air. Golett crashes to the ground. It rises to its feet, clutching its head.
Axew is surrounded in a reddish-purple light, his eyes shining a harsh red. Axew proceeds to assault Golett, pummeling it with a vicious onslaught of punches and kicks. One particularly strong kick sends Golett flying through the air once again.
"Golett!" Luke cries.
Luke's Golett falls to the ground, sending up a cloud of dust.
Ash sucks in a breath. "What was that?!"
"Outrage."
Ash, Misty and Stephan turn, finding Georgia standing right next to them. There's a hard cast to her features, gaze fixed on the battlefield.
On Axew.
"Awesome!" Iris cheers. "You learned Outrage! Wow!"
The dust settles, revealing Luke's Golett struggling to its feet.
"Also," Georgia continues, her eyes twitching. "The effects don't stop."
Axew charges right for Golett, unleashing another barrage of blows. Landing a particularly ruthless kick, the force of it knocks Golett directly into a stadium wall. Golett falls to the ground in a heap, battered and unconscious.
"Golett is unable to battle!" the referee announces over the spectators' applause. "Which means that Axew and Iris are the winners!"
Iris rushes over to Axew, his eyes still glowing red.
"You learned Outrage! Cool!"
Iris picks up Axew, smiling at her Pokémon. He starts flailing in her arms, limbs going this way and that.
"Axew, that was amazing!"
It's when Axew starts crying out, his flailing worsening, that Iris takes stock of her Pokémon's wellbeing.
"Wh-Whoa!" she cries, trying and succeeding to pat Axew on the head. "It's okay, Axew!"
Eventually, Axew stops flailing around. His eyes soon close, but not before showing how the red glow fades from them. Axew starts snoring in Iris' arms, startling a chuckle out of her.
"I forgot!" Iris says ruefully. "Outrage can leave the user confused afterward."
She sighs contentedly, nuzzling her head against Axew's.
Luke crouches down next to Golett, Poké Ball in hand.
"Good job, Golett. Thanks!" Luke says, returning Golett to its Poké Ball. "You deserve a good rest."
The screen behind the commentators changes. It shows Iris' portrait, the word "WINNER" shining underneath, glittering gold. It then changes once more to show Iris' portrait next to Ash's, the two separated by a lightning bolt.
"And with that, the matchup for our final round has been decided!" Freddy exclaims.
"Yes!" Ash cheers. "I'm gonna battle Iris!"
"Pikachu!"
"Alright!" Stephan cheers. "Rock it, Ash!"
"You better give it your all!" Misty says. With Luke's battle against Iris at an end, she lowers his camera.
"Yeah, you bet!" Ash says, smiling wide.
Their ensuing chatter is so excitable, they don't notice Georgia walking away, nor hear the caustic words upon her lips.
"We'll just see what kind of battling fiasco Iris puts on now."
At that moment, Luke and Iris rejoin their friends and Don George makes his way to the center of the battlefield. He clears his throat, lifting his arms high.
"Our final Club Battle will take place tomorrow right here!" Don George states. "I strongly suggest our two finalists get lots of rest for what's sure to be an exciting battle event! That's all for now!"
"Thanks again, Nurse Joy!" Misty says, giving her a bright smile. Marill jumps up and down on the counter, bouncing from one foot to the other before Misty takes it into her arms.
"You're very welcome!" Nurse Joy says, giving Misty a smile just as bright.
"Yeah, thanks!" Iris adds, patting her Axew on the head.
"Axew!" he opens his mouth wide before closing it.
"Nurse Joy, do you know where Trip went off to?" Ash asks. "I haven't seen him since his battle with Misty."
Nurse Joy and Misty both grimace at the mention of the acerbic guy, albeit for different reasons.
"Trip?" Nurse Joy repeats. "He did stop by, but he didn't say where he was going. All he told me was: "It'd be a waste of time to stand around here"."
"That indeed sounds like Trip." Cilan says.
His lips pursed, Ash looks considerably conflicted by this information. "Okay. Thanks, Nurse Joy."
Nurse Joy's smile turns just a bit softer at the edges. She claps her hands, her eyes falling shut. "By the way, I wanted to wish you two the best of luck in the finals tomorrow! I know you won't just battle really hard, you'll have lots of fun, too!"
And like that, the mood shifts. The atmosphere does a complete hundred eighty, Ash and Iris sharing a smile before they turn to Nurse Joy. Ash gives her a thumbs up whilst Iris emphatically nods her head.
"Thanks, Nurse Joy!" they chorus.
A wordless sound of joy fills one of the Pokémon Center's rooms. The sound's so loud, it nearly rattles the decorative sconce hanging over the bed.
"This is incredible!" Luke exclaims, once more expressing gratitude for not only Misty, but Ash as well. From what he's seen of the camera footage, it's given him ample information to make the battles in his films more exciting and improve his own battling skills. "Gotta say, those two managed to record some really good stuff!"
Zorua barks and Golett nods its head in agreement.
Luke spends a good five minutes reviewing the footage before the sound of a growling stomach shatters his concentration. Even though it's just him and his Pokémon, his cheeks darken and he starts stammering.
"I guess I should probably get something to eat, huh?" Luke says, rubbing the back of his neck. He pauses the playback of the video, looking up at the nearby wall clock. "I should go and interview our two finalists before their battle tomorrow!"
His course set, Luke heads for the dining hall with Zorua and Golett in tow.
He stops right before the threshold when he hears an argument brewing.
This'll be a great time to get some behind-the-scenes footage!
In the dining hall, Ash, Misty and Iris are gathered around one of the tables. Pikachu, Marill and Axew sit on the table in front of their trainers. Currently, the conversation is on Axew's performance during his first tournament battle.
"Wow, you did it Axew!" Iris says. "Your first tournament battle and you won it!" she places her hands on her cheeks, grinning down at her Pokémon. "And you even learned Outrage! I'm totally impressed!"
"Axew!" he cries, just as happy.
"Iris is right!" Ash says. "You were so awesome!"
"Pika Pika!"
"Marill!"
"Let's make a deal." Iris says. "You work hard, and I will too, 'kay?"
"Ew!"
"Alright!" Cilan interjects, approaching the table carrying a large silver platter with both hands. The silver cloche covering the food gleams. "It's time for dinner, gang!"
Cilan sets the platter down on the table. He lifts the cloche, revealing four plates. Three of the plates have loaves of bread on them, three apiece. The fourth plate contains the entree: three rows of scrumptious cutlets. Golden brown, the cutlets are garnished with dark leafy greens and carrots.
"Wow!" Ash says, fork and knife already in hand. "That looks so good!"
"Yeah, it sure does!" Iris agrees.
"You might've outdone yourself, Cilan!" Misty adds.
"You humble me, truly!" Cilan says, a bashful smile pulling at the corners of his mouth. "To celebrate Axew's first victory as well as wish you two the best of luck, I thought we'd have a little dinner party. So, I borrowed their kitchen."
"That's so nice, Cilan!" Ash remarks.
"Yeah!" Iris says. "Thanks so much!"
"You're quite welcome!" Cilan says, holding up two bowls laden with Pokémon Food. "This is yours Pikachu and Axew!"
"Pika!
"Ew ew!"
Cilan chuckles after placing them in front of Pikachu and Axew. He holds up one more dish of Pokémon Food. "And don't think I forgot about you, Marill. Enjoy!"
"Marill!" it cries, jumping into the air before digging into the food without hesitation.
" Mangé, mangé ." Cilan says, nodding approvingly at Marill before turning to his companions. Smiling, he takes his seat next to Iris.
"Can't wait!" Ash, Misty and Iris cry. Iris claps her hands once before she and her friends dig into the meal Cilan prepared. "Thanks!"
A festive mood of bright jubilation falls upon the quartet and their Pokémon. However, before it can launch into full swing, a surly individual makes her presence known.
"Ah," Burgundy says, her gaze roving over Ash, Misty and Iris before falling on Cilan. "There you are, Cilan."
"Burgundy?" Cilan says. He smiles at her, indicating the spread decorating the table. "You're most welcome to join us!"
" Non ." Burgundy responds, waving a hand back and forth in the air once. "I already enjoyed a fabulous dinner fit for a connoisseuse. I was wondering if you would accept my challenge, oui ?"
"Challenge?" Cilan repeats.
"I challenge you to a Pokémon Connoisseur Battle during tomorrow's finals." Burgundy explains.
"A Connoisseur Battle?" Cilan repeats.
" C'est vrai !" Burgundy confirms. "I want to see what you're made of as an association-recognized A-Class Pokémon Connoisseur."
"To tell the truth, I'd really prefer to savor Ash and Iris' battle tomorrow in a more relaxing fashion." Cilan says.
"Bien sûr." Burgundy says. "What you're really saying is you're scared to have a battle avec moi!"
Cilan's eyes fall shut. Shaking his head, he takes to rubbing his temple with his index finger. "Oh, of all the—" he opens his eyes. "Nice try, but I'm not gonna fall for your little provocation."
A thoughtful hum escapes Cilan when something doesn't escape his notice. That is, Luke pointing his camera right at him. Zorua simply stares at him whilst Golett holds the boom mic. Luke says nothing, adjusting something on his camera.
"Hm." Cilan says. "Well, I am a Film Connoisseur, so I have to accept if the camera rolls."
Cilan rises to his feet, placing the back of his hands on his hips. He meets Burgundy's eye.
"Alright then," Cilan says. "I will accept your challenge!"
"Talk about a sudden change of one's mind!" Burgundy remarks.
Cilan and Burgundy both are startled when Stephan sidles up to them. He places a hand on Cilan's right shoulder and Burgundy's left shoulder.
"It's your lucky day!" Stephan asserts. "I'll referee for you two!"
"A Connoisseur Battle at the same time as the final Club Battle?" Ash says. He nods his head. "Just thinking about it is getting me really psyched!"
"Pikachu Pika!"
"Me too!" Iris says. "I'm getting super psyched and I'm gonna win!"
"Axew!"
"Just remember to eat so you have enough energy for tomorrow." Misty chides, popping a chunk of bread into Ash's mouth.
As Ash and his friends plan for the final day of the Nimbasa Town Club Battle Tournament, a certain quartet endeavors to refine their latest scheme.
Within the darkened interior of a cabin, the Ferris wheel long since closed for the day, the Team Rocket Trio of Jessie, James and Meowth gather around a laptop. Their faces, as well as that of their newest recruit, a rambunctious Pikachu, are illuminated by the screen's light. Currently, the device shows a map of Nimbasa City.
"Here is our present location." Jessie says, placing a finger on the R symbol emblazoned on top of the Ferris wheel before moving to a spherical structure nearby. "And this is the Music Hall.
"The subway station is here." James says, placing his finger on a stout rectangular structure before moving on to a narrow square that runs off the side of the screen. "And the drawbridge here."
"Pika." it murmurs thoughtfully, nodding its head.
"Our plan's in its final stages." Meowth says. "So, let's not take any chances and add one last little touch."
"What's that?" Jessie asks.
"Enlighten us, please." James says.
"Just leave everything to me." Meowth says, letting out a short chuckle.
Jessie and James share a chuckle; a quiet, fleeting sound. Pikachu grins, cheeks sparking with electricity.
The sun burns high and bright in the sky, the level of excitement at an all-time high as scores of people filter into the Nimbasa Town Stadium for the final round of the tournament. Given the auspices of the match, all the previous competitors make themselves comfortable in the rest area situated on the edge of the battlefield.
"The final round of the Nimbasa Town Pokémon Club Battle is here!" Freddy announces, the screen behind him flaring to life. It shows Iris and Ash's portraits side by side, separated by a lightning bolt. "And these two gifted and hardworking trainers will be battling for the win!"
Burgundy looks around the stadium, the many spectators lining the seats. To Ash and Iris, taking their places in the arena. She breathes deeply, turning to Cilan and Stephan. Misty stands to Burgundy's left.
"Cilan," she starts. "I guarantee you our Connoisseur Battle will be just as heated as their final battle, oui ?"
"I suggest it not get too heated." Cilan says. "Remember, as Pokémon Connoisseurs, we must not let emotions take over or we won't be able to do an accurate evaluation."
"Huh?" is Burgundy's response, narrowing her eyes at her nemesis.
"With that remark, Cilan wins the pre-game battle with his wise words of wisdom." Stephan asserts.
Burgundy shrieks, taking a single aggressive step towards Stephan. He throws his arms up to shield his face.
" Ferme la bouche !" she hisses. Burgundy steps back, taking a deep breath. "I strongly disagree, ç'est pas !" She looks away from Cilan and Stephan. She lifts her arms as if to encompass the entire arena. "As Pokémon Connoisseurs, we must allow ourselves a certain degree of emotion! To laugh and cry and feel ! It's through our emotions that we connect with Pokémon and their trainers!"
Burgundy leans back, placing the back of her hands on her hips. "Are you saying we should simply ignore such things?!"
"That is not what I'm saying at all." Cilan says, waving a hand back and forth through the air exactly once. "I'm merely stating the fact that, should we become blinded by strong emotions, we could miss something important."
"It's through strong emotions that we view something trés importante !" Burgundy retorts.
Stephan places his hands on the bannister in front of him. He leans forward with a sigh. "Kind of regretting signin' up for this."
Nearby, entirely oblivious to the discord between Cilan and Burgundy, Luke sets his tripod on the ground.
"Now," Luke says, locking his camera firmly into place. "Ready, crew? Let's make a film!"
Zorua barks, Golett moves its boom mic enthusiastically from side to side and Bianca loudly closes the clapperboard in her hands.
"I'm ready~!" Bianca cheers. She thrusts a hand into the air; the one holding the clapperboard. "Let's do it~!"
Cheren chuckles briefly, eyes firmly on the battlefield.
All around, the various competitors — Antonio and Emmanuel; Scooter, Jimmy Ray and Dino, Sylvester and Omega - mainly keep to themselves. They anxiously await the start of the final round of the tournament, but none quite as much as Georgia. Arms crossed over her chest, her mouth a hard line, Georgia's gaze never budges from the battlefield.
Misty's Marill sits on the bannister, affording Misty free range of motion. She lifts her hands to both sides of her mouth, crying out: "You've got this, Ash!"
Ash responds with a wink and a thumbs-up.
He turns back to face Iris, Freddy clearing his throat at the same time.
"Let's get this battle on the road!" he roars, rising to his feet. Microphone firmly in hand, he uses his free hand to indicate Ash's side of the field. "The trainer to my left is Ash from Pallet Town!" he spins his arm in a loop, moving to gesture at Iris' side of the field. "And to my right, Iris from the Village of Dragons!"
"Those unwavering expressions on their faces rule!" Luke remarks, viewing Ash and Iris through the lens of his camera. He pulls away from his camera, hearing the enthusiastic cries of the crowd. "This is going to be an awesome battle documentary!"
"I agree!" Bianca says, lazily tossing the clapperboard from hand to hand. "Thanks again for letting me help out, Luke!"
"It's no trouble, Bianca!" Luke says, glancing at her before sticking his face back in his camera. "After all, a film director is only as go—" he stops, turning to look at Bianca. "But please be careful with the equipment! That clapperboard isn't a toy!"
"Oh, sorry!" Bianca says, the hand holding the clapperboard dropping to her side whilst her other hand goes to cover her mouth. "I'll be extra careful!"
Luke smiles, turning back to his camera.
Zorua snickers.
(Bianca holds the clapperboard up to her face, a hand lifted to the side of her mouth. "So that's what this thingy's called.")
Cheren smiles at Bianca's back. Pushing his glasses up by the bridge, he walks over to Misty, Cilan and the others. Remarkably, there's no animosity in the air.
For the moment.
"Competitors, are you ready?" the referee says.
"Yes sir!" Ash and Iris answer.
"Iris," Ash goes on to say. "I'm not holding back!"
"Then bring it on, Ash!" Iris says.
"All right then," the referee says, bringing his arms close to his sides. He thrusts them forward, crossing them in an "X" in front of his chest before lifting both arms high. "Begin!"
"Let's go!" Ash says. Nodding his head, he fiddles with the brim of his hat before bringing out a Poké Ball. He tosses it through the air, soon releasing his Pokémon of choice onto the battlefield. "Roggenrola, I choose you!"
"Roggen!" it says, feet firmly planted on the ground.
"'Kay, Excadrill, you're up!" Iris says, releasing her own Pokémon onto the field.
"Excadrill!" it cries, a gleam in its eyes and claws.
Georgia sighs, viewing the scene with dismay. "Now why couldn't Iris use her Dragon-type Pokémon, Axew?"
"Exacdrill is a Ground- and Steel-type Pokémon, so Rock-type moves will be resisted a great deal!" Freddy says.
"But Ground-type moves are quite effective against Rock-type Pokémon." Don George adds.
"Steel-type moves, too!" Freddy adds. "So, when it comes to type advantage, it's in Excadrill's favor, isn't it?!"
"Yes." Don George says. "However, we shouldn't be as quick to dismiss Ash's chances entirely! How a trainer combats type disadvantages separates good trainers from the truly remarkable!" he takes to nodding his head, one hand cupping his chin. "Why, I believe just last month there was an exhibition match featuring Marshal of our very own Elite Four. An exciting battle display, I would say."
Don George's eyes fly open, slamming his fist on the announcer's table. "Now, as you are all aware, Marshal specializes in Fighting-type Pokémon. These stalwart and intimidating Pokémon have a considerable weakness to Flying-type and Psychic-type movesets."
"I believe I saw that battle." Freddy remarks thoughtfully. "I don't quite remember the trainer's name, but I believe he hailed from the Johto region."
Don George nods briskly, pressing on. "The trainer Marshal faced off against had a team exclusively of Psychic-type Pokémon. Moreover, some of them had access to Flying-type moves. Despite this overwhelming disadvantage, Marshall managed to emerge victorious in a gripping six-on-six battle while only losing three of his Pokémon."
There's a near ear-splitting roar from the crowd. As most of the spectators are natives of the fair land of Unova, they're not only quite familiar with the Elite Four, they're quite fond of such exceptional trainers.
"Type advantages and disadvantages are not the end all be all of Pokémon Battling." Don George summarizes. "Even the humble Sewaddle can best a Pidove! As for Ash, he won't let up despite the type disadvantage! I'm anxious to see how Iris will battle him." he slams his hand on the announcer's table once again. "Regardless, this is sure to be an exciting battle!"
In the competitors' rest area, his eyebrows creased in thought as he looks at the battlefield over his camera, Luke appears much less enthused than the commentator.
"Something wrong?" Bianca asks.
"My shooting angle's pretty much stuck in this one boring spot!" Luke complains. Squinting, he raises his hands to form a box in front of his eyes; his left index finger is lined up with his right thumb and his right index finger with his left thumb. "What I'd really like to do is film from a low angle so the camera really conveys excitement!"
"So, why don't you get in a little bit closer?" Bianca says.
Luke scratches his head, eyes on the battlefield before moving to Bianca.
"We're not supposed to leave this area." Luke says. "I'm afraid we're stuck right where we are."
"Hmph!" Bianca says, looking away with a fleeting smirk. "Oh, dear me, how quickly you accept defeat!" she looks at him out of the corner of her eye. "You are never going to be a great movie director like that!"
"What?!" Luke shouts, incredulous. Picking up his tripod in a short, aggressive motion, he begins walking toward the closed gate leading into the battlefield. "Alright crew, let's move it!"
Zorua and Golett bound after Luke, the latter trudging along with the boom mic.
"Wait for me!~" Bianca cries, clapping her hands together. She gives chase. "Oh, this is going to be so much fun!"
Luke and his entourage aren't the only ones feeling enthused.
"Yeah!" Stephan cheers. "Let's start the Pokémon Connoisseur Battle, too!"
Burgundy has a hand to her chest, the other raised to the sky whilst Cilan uses both hands to adjust his bowtie. A smile on their faces, they are a tableau of self-assurance and pride.
" Alors, bonjour !" Burgundy cries. "Evaluating Time, s'il vous plaît !"
"Hmph." Cilan says with a snap of his fingers. "It is truly Evaluating Time!"
"Just like a refreshing beverage, I will present something light and trés bubbly!" Burgundy declares, miming sipping from a flute. She sighs, satisfied. " Ç'est délicieux !'
"Like the natural beauty of a crimson rose!" Cilan exclaims with a dramatic flaring of his nostrils. "Or the sweet scent of a fine dark chocolat , my evaluation's sure to please!"
The battle proper launches into full swing.
"'Kay, first move!" Ash shouts. "Roggenrola, use Flash Cannon!"
Roggenrola glows with a bright white light, the light gathering directly in front of it. Roggenrola fires off the Flash Cannon, the pale whitish-blue beam hitting Excadrill directly in the chest.
In response, Excadrill takes a step back, but otherwise doesn't look that much worse for wear.
"Flash Cannon is a Steel-type move." Iris says. "Meaning it's only half as effective against my Excadrill!"
"I know that!" Ash says. "Roggenrola and I are getting serious!"
"In that case," Iris murmurs then, louder, "We're gonna get serious, too! Excadrill, use Drill Run!"
Jumping into the air, Excadrill contorts its body into a drill and begins spinning. Excadrill spins faster and faster, diving through the air to strike at Roggenrola with the protrusion atop its head. Suffering the brunt of a super-effective attack, Roggenrola is sent flying. Roggenrola crash lands nearby. Nonetheless, it quickly surges back to its feet.
"Use Flash Cannon again!" Ash says.
Glowing white, Roggenrola unleashes another beam of white and pale blue directly for Excadrill.
"Dodge and use Metal Claw!"
Sidestepping the Flash Cannon, Excadrill's claws flash white then silver. Charging forward, Excadrill swipes at Roggenrola. Roggenrola manages to evade Excadrill once, but it isn't as fortunate the second time. Excadrill's claw connects, Roggenrola feeling the full power of the Metal Claw.
"Roggenrola, no!"
"Hmm…" Burgundy muses, looking from Excadrill to Roggenrola. "Roggenrola's attack was sleek absolument , but Excadrill's attack bit back with gusto, making waves in its wake!
"Roggenrola expressed a remarkable passion with a simple yet dynamic attack, spicy and bold!" Cilan says. "Then, Excadrill expressed its passion by countering with a pure power move! A flavorful recipe!"
"It's no wonder you're recognized by the Connoisseur Association." Stephan remarks. "Those fancy descriptions of yours are seriously impressive!"
Luke zooms his camera in on Roggenrola before zooming on. He lays on the ground, camera pointed at the battlers. Golett is to his right whilst Zorua and Bianca are to his left.
"The perfect low angle for dramatic footage!" Luke cheers. "This is gonna be so amazing!"
"It'll sound great, too!" Bianca whispers, boom mic firmly in hand.
Zorua barks in agreement.
"Roggenrola, use Stone Edge!" Ash says.
Roggenrola's body becomes outlined in a white light as two interlocking rings of glowing spheres rotate around it. The light fades, solidifying into sharp rocks. The two rings cease their movement as, with a powerful cry of its name, Roggenrola fires the Stone Edge directly for Excadrill.
But Iris is ready.
"Metal Claw, go!"
Excadrill charges, using its silvery claws to shatter rock after rock. Despite the ruthless efficiency in which Excadrill strikes down part of the Stone Edge attack, the rocks prove too numerous for it to really combat.
One of the rocks hits Excadrill in the face. Then another and another before the majority of the Stone Edge slams into Excadrill. Excadrill is sent crashing to the ground, the attack leaving him battered.
"Excadrill, no!"
With considerable effort, Excadrill rises to its feet. It sends a smirk Iris' way.
"Focus Blast, now!" Iris shouts.
Excadrill brings both claws close together in front of its face. A sphere of light blue and white energy takes shape between Excadrill's claws. The sphere grows and grows, easily the size of Excadrill's entire face.
Ash gulps, a bead of sweat dripping down the side of his face. Sweeping an arm through the air, he cries out with, "Counter it with Flash Cannon!"
Roggenrola charges up a sphere of whitish-blue energy, firing it at Excadrill the same time Excadrill unleashes its Focus Blast.
The two attacks soon meet, battling for dominance. The friction of the two attacks continually pressing against one another sends off a flurry of sparks to rain onto the battlefield. Just as it would seem the two attacks are evenly matched, Excadrill's Focus Blast proves itself.
The Focus Blast slices the Flash Cannon cleanly in half, going on to strike Roggenrola's body directly. The super-effective Fighting-type move sends Roggenrola crashing along the ground.
"Roggenrola!" Ash cries.
Roggenrola is silent. It rises to its feet, doing not much more.
"Incredible!" Stephan cheers. "I don't think I've ever seen a Focus Blast like that!"
" Oui, oui !" Burgundy agrees, bringing her hands together. "Two different flavors collide and what was hot rises to even hotter temperatures!"
"Ah!" Cilan breathes. "Such luxurious depth of flavors! A grand contest of fluffy lightness and rich density with the familiar fragrance of a final battle, yet soaring to new heights!"
Burgundy gasps; a sharp and strangled sound. She stares at the battlefield, unblinking, as Cilan's statements strike a dissonant chord. Her heart sinks. Despite her best efforts to ensure her words are thoughtful, compelling and overall the crème de la crème , when she listens to Cilan's words after her own, she's forced to confront a bitter realization.
Just like an A-Class Connoisseur. It hurts, but his word choices are par excellence .
She may be just a tad out of her depth. No matter what, Burgundy believes herself to be A-Class Connaisseuse material through and through. By all accounts, she should be a S -Class Connaisseuse! But the fact remains that, in the eyes of the Pokémon Connoisseur Association, Cilan is ranked as A-Class whilst she possesses the measly C-Class.
And, after hearing Cilan's evaluation, Burgundy questions her own skills.
"Burgundy." Cilan says, managing to break through her morose introspection.
"Huh?"
"Why don't we end our Connoisseur Battle now?" Cilan suggests. "Let's concentrate on their bout."
"Huh." Burgundy repeats. With a single, abrupt motion, she turns away from Cilan. Crossing her arms over her chest, she says, " Je vois , what you're saying is you know you're going to lose, so you'd rather end our battle now than taste the bitterness of defeat! Very well! I guess, if that's what you want." she gives a single nod, looking back at him. " D'accord !"
Cilan stares at her for only a moment. " Merci bien! "
Burgundy regards Cilan for much more than a mere moment.
"Hm." is all she says, her arms falling to her sides.
"Excadrill, use Dig!" Iris shouts.
Lifting its left claw high to the air, Excadrill slams it into the ground. Excadrill burrows underground, sending up a cloud of dirt in the process.
Roggenrola looks this way and that, but it proves to be futile. Excadrill surges from the space underneath Roggenrola, spinning around and around. The force of the super-effective attack causes Roggenrola to spin several times before falling to the ground.
Roggenrola struggles to its feet, standing very still.
A tense quiet falls over the stadium, everyone anticipating the final round's end. It's just as the referee glances between Excadrill and Roggenrola, that Roggenrola becomes engulfed in a brilliant — and quite familiar — bluish-white light.
"Uh oh!" Iris says.
"Roggenrola, are you…?" Ash starts, trailing off.
"Oh my!" Cilan cheers, a smile pulling at his lips. "An evolution mid-battle is incredible! During a final battle, it's even moreso!"
"Oh yeah!" Stephan cheers, punching his fist into his palm. "Show 'em what you're made of, Roggenrola!"
"It might be just what Ash needs to win!" Misty says.
"Marill!"
"Evolution does provide a rather nice boost in strength and endurance." Cheren remarks. "However, will it be enough?"
The nearby former competitors are overcome by excitable chatter.
All except Georgia, who merely narrows her eyes at the battlefield.
The bright light surrounding Roggenrola dims and dims, until finally…
"Boldore!"
The light breaks apart in a flash of sparks, leaving Boldore in its place.
"Awesome!" Ash cheers. "Roggenrola, you've evolved!"
"Boldore!"
Boldore punctuates its bold declaration of its name by firing off two silver energy waves in the shape of the protrusion on the front of its body, the red gemstones on the top of Boldore's body glowing bright orange.
Ash grins hugely, recognizing the attack for what it is. "Boldore, you've learned Rock Blast!"
Iris grits her teeth, sweeping her arm through the air. "It takes more than evolving to win a Pokémon Battle!"
"Drill!" it cries.
This is not good. Excadrill's really drained. And Roggenrola evolved, which gave it a boost of energy. I need to end this battle, quickly!
"Alright!" Ash shouts, thrusting his right arm forward, index finger extended. "Let's finish this off with the next move!"
"Boldore!" it cries, slamming its front appendages on the ground.
"Make sure you put everything into this next move, Excadrill!" Iris orders.
"Ex!" it cries.
"Excadrill, use Drill Run, now!"
"Rock Blast, go!"
Iris' Excadrill and Ash's Boldore heed their trainer's commands.
Excadrill lifts its arms up to its head, morphing into a drill. Jumping into the air, Excadrill charges at Boldore, spinning around at a dizzying speed. At the same time, the red gems atop Boldore's body glow bright orange. The protrusion on the front of Boldore's body shines a radiant silver, soon firing off a series of silvery energy waves in the same shape directly for Excadrill.
"Do it!" Ash cries.
"Give it all you've got!" Iris shouts.
Boldore's Rock Blast slams into Excadrill again and again, but Excadrill persists. Charging through the air, Excadrill begins to tremble. It's just as Boldore fires a seventh Rock Blast at Excadrill that Excadrill slams into Boldore, sending up a plume of dirt and dust in the process.
"What an explosive encounter!" Freddy shouts. "The powerful attacks of our two finalists have resulted in quite the combination! Excadrill and Boldore are both obscured from sight! Viewers, there's no telling who will stand victorious!"
"Indeed." Don George says. "Perhaps this is the most exhilarating part of a tournament battle! When the competition is down to the wire and the outcome depends on this final move!"
Ash, Iris and the entirety of the stadium are gripped by an unrelenting suspense, all of them waiting for the dust to settle. To reveal Excadrill and Boldore, but moreover, the victor of the Nimbasa Town Club Battle Tournament.
The dust begins to clear, showing Excadrill and Boldore both standing tall. The sight lasts for but a moment before Boldore falls backward, beaten and unconscious.
"Boldore!" Ash shouts.
"Boldore is unable to battle!" the referee declares, lifting his right arm in the direction of Excadrill and Iris. "Which means Excadrill and Iris win!"
Iris gasps twice. First at the shock of winning the battle, then at the joy of winning the tournament . She jumps into the air, running towards her Pokémon with a cry of its name on her lips.
She embraces her haggard Pokémon, Excadrill slowly lifting a claw to place gingerly on her back.
"We did it, Excadrill!" Iris cheers, rubbing Excadrill's shoulder.
"Ew!" he cries, emerging from Iris' hair with a huge grin.
Meanwhile, Ash crouches down next to a despondent Boldore.
"I know, Boldore." he says, carefully patting Boldore on the head. "It's a bummer we didn't win."
"Boldore." it sighs.
"But you battled so hard!" Ash continues, tightening his free hand into a fist. "Not only that, but you evolved, too! And learned a new move! That's amazing!"
"Boldore!"
Spirits lifted by its trainer's bubbly enthusiasm, Boldore ends up tackling Ash to the ground.
"Wh-whoa!" Ash stammers, laughing. He's feeling struck by Boldore and a strong sense of déjà vu . "'Kay, buddy, I think that's enough."
"This Club Battle has seen some much heated action and today is no exception!" Freddy says, the screen behind him changing to show only Iris' portrait. Fireworks explode behind Iris' portrait as beneath it, the word "WINNER!" blazes brilliant bright, glittering glorious gold. "And so, the trainer who rose to the top is Iris!"
Loud, riotous applause tears through the air, some of the spectators even rising to their feet. However, there are two who have no intention in getting swept up in sentiment.
There's the figure standing alone, clapping his hands exactly once before taking his leave.
And there's Georgia, her arms crossed over her chest.
"Hmph." she scoffs. "I guess this will make her a bit more of an interesting trainer to beat."
Back on the battlefield, after recovering from being tackled by Boldore, Ash returns his Pokémon safely to its Poké Ball.
"Boldore, that was amazing." he says. "Thanks; have a good rest."
"And the crowd hasn't forgotten Ash," Freddy asserts over the continuing applause. "our runner-up as he gets showered with a big round of applause!"
"Hm." Don George says, sounding choked up. "Splendid! A battle worthy of final round status! Heart-wrenching, but an emotional ride!"
Ash and Iris meet in the center of the battlefield after they both return their Pokémon.
"Hey, that was a great battle Iris!" Ash says.
"I had a lot of fun!" Iris agrees.
Ash extends his hand, Iris soon doing the same. The two share a firm handshake, the contact broken when Don George approaches them. He grabs them both by the wrist, lifting their arms high.
"Folks, let's give another big round of applause for a great battle!" Don George says.
At the suggestion, Ash and Iris take to waving at the crowd whilst the crowd continues their jubilant adulation.
"Here's the beautiful seven feather, top-class Driftveil Wing Set!" Freddy says whilst Iris holds it high above her head. "Containing Health, Muscle, Resist, Genius, Clever, Swift and Pretty Wings!"
After Don George arrived on the battlefield, he quickly began the preparations to present Iris with the prize for winning the tournament. She stands on a sturdy square box with Excadrill and Emolga. To her left is Freddy whilst Don George stands on her right. And crouched in front of her, camera pointed right at her, are two young men from Nimbasa TV. They are prepared to capture the moment for posterity.
Iris lowers the Driftveil Wing Set, holding it in front of her chest.
"Congrats, Iris!" Freddy says. "May we please have a word or two about your stunning win?"
He extends his microphone to her, regarding her patiently, yet expectantly.
"Hi Elder!" Iris begins, giving the camera a bright grin. "And everyone at the Village of Dragons! I'm fine! Traveling is great and see!" she holds the Driftveil Wing Set in front of her face before lowering it. "I guess this prize proves I've been training real hard! I'll send it to the Village of Dragons via Pidove Shipping Service! Bye!"
"Axew!" he says, popping into the frame to say hello. Emolga and Excadrill follow suit, the former even giving the camera a wink.
"Emol!"
"Ex!"
"That was the winner of the Nimbasa Town Pokémon Club Battle, Iris!" Freddy says, gesturing at her with his free hand. "Now how about a big hand!"
Spectators and competitors alike clap their hands together, all of them satisfied with such an entertaining display.
The sky dyed a magnificent orange, Ash, Misty and their friends stand outside the Nimbasa Town Stadium. Friendly chatter passes between them.
Ash and Misty stand with Cheren, Bianca, Stephan and Luke as they enjoy friendly conversation. Iris and Cilan are nearby, talking with Georgia and Burgundy, respectively.
"Listen, Iris," Georgia says. "Don't get carried away just because you won some teensy tournament, see?"
"I'm not carried away!" Iris says, wincing at the advice.
"Whatever." Georgia says, lifting her left hand to point directly at Iris. "Just hurry and become a Dragon Master already. Or else I can't call you my rival."
"Huh?"
"Okay, bye." Georgia says. She turns away, a hand raised in parting.
Georgia walks away without another word.
Iris watches Georgia go, oblivious to the conversation taking place behind her.
"Cilan, let's settle our Connoisseur Battle the next time we meet. Comment penses-tu? "
"Trés bien!" Cilan says. "Until then, let's keep on refining our skills as Top Connoisseurs!
"But of course!" Burgundy says. "Don't be terribly surprised if the next time we see each other, I'm an A-Class Connoisseur!"
"And I'm feeling really good about it!" Luke says, lowering his camera. With great care, he holds it in the crook of his arm. "With all the footage we've shot, I'll be able to make a documentary that really rocks!"
"Ooh, let me know if you need any help!" Bianca says, placing a hand on Luke's shoulders. "Making a documentary sounds like tons of fun! And plus," she glances down at Zorua. "I'll get to spend time with Zorua! Doesn't that just sound darling?"
Zorua scoffs, looking away from Bianca.
"Just try not to get too carried away." Cheren advises, pushing his glasses up by the bridge.
Bianca says nothing, opting to pout at Cheren.
"You've got to see it when it's done!" Luke says. "Okay?"
"Sure!" Ash says with a nod. "Can't wait to have a look!"
"I'd like to see what you can do with our footage!" Misty says.
"Marill!"
"So, where are you guys headed off to next?" Stephan asks.
"Nimbasa City for my gym battle!" Ash replies. "This tournament really helped me remember what I want—" he pauses, sharing a glance with Pikachu. "And that's for all my Pokémon and me to get a whole lot stronger!"
"Pikachu!"
"Good luck, Ash!" Stephan says, pumping his fists in the air. "I'm right with you!"
"Thanks a lot, Stephan!" Ash says. "That's awesome!"
Stephan guffaws, placing his hands on his hips. "It's no trouble!"
"Speaking of," Cheren says, placing a hand on Bianca's shoulder. "Bianca and I will be heading to Nimbasa City, too."
"That's right!" Bianca says, enthusiastically nodding her head. "We both need to earn our fourth gym badge!"
"Good luck, both of you." Misty says. "I'm sure you'll both be able to get it no problem."
Ash visibly brightens, looking between Misty and Cheren and Bianca. "Maybe I'll get to see you guys battle it out! It'd be great to see your Pignite and Samurott in action!"
Cheren and Bianca share a secret smile.
"Thanks, Ash!" Bianca says. "I'm cheering for you, too!"
"So," Cilan interjects as he approaches Ash and the others. He's joined by Iris and Burgundy. "Shall we get going?"
"Right!" Iris confirms. "We should be able to get closer to Nimbasa City before it gets too dark out! Take care, everyone!"
"Bianca and I should be leaving as well." Cheren admits. "I received an Xtransceiver message from Hilbert and Hilda after the closing ceremony. They said there's something important that we must discuss."
"Guess we'll be going our separate ways for now." Stephan says. "See you soon!"
"That's a promise!" Luke says. "Best wishes, you guys!"
"Bye-bye~!" Bianca singsongs.
"It was a pleasure meeting you all." Cheren says.
" Au revoir !" Burgundy says.
Ash, Misty, Cilan and Iris wave goodbye to their friends. Burgundy walks one way whilst Cheren, Bianca, Stephan and Luke walk the other. Ash and his companions watch them leave for a moment before they start walking.
"All right!" Ash says, pumping both fists high in the air. "I'm totally psyched for my next gym battle. What'd you say, Pikachu?"
"Pikachu Pikapi!" he says, lifting a paw high.
Ash nods. "Nimbasa City, here we come!"
Originally Added: February 14th, 2025.