Professor Celestia and Luna's camp is beginning its sixth day, and our heroes have been battling with each other to gain entry into the camp's Hall of Fame. With a friendly and fierce rivalry, the Red and Yellow Teams are currently tied for the lead, and to break that tie, it's time for the final event: the Team Battle Competition.
The sun rose on the final day of camp, and both professors were looking forward to this as this year's selections of trainers proved to be one of the best. The two sisters approached all the trainers who had gathered on the beach. Some Wingulls flew over them, chatting as the pair arrived and began to address their students.
"Good morning, everyone!"
"Good morning, Professor!" responded everyone to Celestia.
"It's already day six of camp, which means… we finally decide who gets into the Hall of Fame. So get ready for the Team Battle Competition."
Everyone made excited noises after hearing the professor.
"We got this in the bag!" said Rainbow, as she knew they couldn't lose.
"Team battle, huh?" responded Sky, unsure of what Celestia meant.
"Everyone's sure excited," remarked Applejack, who was in a similar boat and looked around to see the others all pumped. Even her little sister and her friends.
"The Team Battle Competition works like a tournament. As usual, the competing teams in the top spots will earn points. Currently, we have two teams tied for the lead, and those teams are the Red Team and the Yellow Team," said Luna. When she called out those teams, the trainers on each side couldn't help but look over and stare down their competition.
"This is our final camp event. So give it all you've got and have fun!" exclaimed Celestia, who got a rowdy cheer from the trainers.
With the announcement, everyone broke apart and headed to their cabins to strategize. Once Sky and the others returned to their cabin, Twilight began to explain the rules of the competition.
"A team battle consists of several trainers forming a team and battling using various types of formations. Our group will have three trainers today, but it can be a five or even seven-person team."
"Wow, really?" responded Sky, surprised to learn about that detail.
"It sounds confusin' to me, Twi," said Aj, as she couldn't wrap her brain around everything to remember.
"Have you done this before, Twilight?" asked Juniper.
"Unfortunately, no. I've read about it and watched some examples from my big brother when he was in Pokémon Academy," said the bookworm, recalling memories from when she was younger.
"Your brother is the Canterlot City Gym Leader, right? I heard he's the strongest Gym Leader," responded Juniper.
"Well, I wouldn't go that far," said Twilight, not trying to give Shining Armor too much praise even though he had the skills to back up that claim. "But yeah- he's pretty strong. My dad wouldn't hand over the reins to the gym if he weren't. Now, regarding this Team Battle Tournament, we need to have a strategy meeting; that way, we can compare the personalities and skills of the Pokémon while we decide on our formation."
"Well, you three can cover that since you all have more battling experience than me," smiled Juniper. "I think I'll sit this one out."
"You sure you don't want in, Juniper?" asked Sky.
"You need someone to cheer you on. I don't mind being a cheerleader for you all. Plus… I actually wanted to film this tournament. Celestia gave me the okay, so I'll be filming all the battles that will take place," informed the girl while adjusting her glasses.
"Alright, then. Applejack, Twilight. We can't lose!" proclaimed the boy as he felt they had the winning formula. "We'll win this competition and enter the Hall of Fame."
With their decision made, the trio began to decide which Pokémon they would be using for the tournament's first round. Soon, everyone gathered back on the beach, as it would serve as the battlefield for the tournament. Luna and Celestia had gotten their assistants to create a battlefield on the sand while having some bleachers set up for everyone else who wasn't participating to watch the fun unfold. Juniper had a camera all set up as she was preparing to film every battle.
"Alright then, trainers. I hope the quick strategy you all had allowed you to pick the best plan possible. Now then, let's get this tournament underway!" declared Celestia from the porch of the main building as the trainers all responded with a cheer.
"Now, let's start with the first rounds!" said Luna, who was on the beach as she had a giant whiteboard with all the groups from each respective team. "To start, it'll be Ms. Dash's group from the Red Team."
"Start with a dominant win!" said Rainbow as she got up, along with Silverbolt and Lyra.
The trio stood across from their opponents, a group from the Green Team. Their expressions were determined and focused.
"Reveal your Pokémon!" said Luna.
"Torkoal, you're up to bat!" shouted the chromatic-haired girl.
"Eevee, time for us to show them what it's all about!" said Bolt.
"Emogla, grace us!" stated Lyra.
The three Pokémon appeared before their trainers, and facing them was the team of Squirtle, Spearow, and Rattata.
"Battle begin!" instructed Luna as she waved the flag.
"Torkoal, use Flamethrower!" instructed Rainbow as she just attacked straight on.
"She already forgot our strategy," sighed Bolt, as he should've known Rainbow wouldn't stick to his plan for a quick and easy win.
"Squirtle, use Water Gun!" said the Pokémon's trainer.
The turtle did just that. The two attacks made contact mid-air, resulting in a veil of vapor appearing. The veil created a cloud that temporarily blinded the field and everyone's vision.
"Now, Spearow, into the cloud!" said the trainer as the Pokémon vanished.
With the huge veil of vapor obscuring their vision temporarily, Rainbow, Silverbolt, and Lyra couldn't tell where or when their opponents would attack. In the meantime, Spearow was closing in on its targets as it prepared to deliver an Aerial Ace attack. The fur on Eevee stood up and sensed the bird's presence as the fox made a sound, which Bolt noticed out of his eye. He, too, saw the outline of their target in that split second.
"Eevee, use Swift!" instructed the boy.
The furry fox shot out yellow stars that made contact with Spearow, who was pushed back just moments before connecting. The bird shot back to his side of the field as the vapor finally cleared out.
"Nice one, Bolt," said Lyra with a smile as he put on a cocky smirk.
"Rattata, use Double Kick on Eevee!"
The rat began to run forward as it had its sight set on the fox.
"Emogla, intercept it with Spark!"
Lyra gave her flying squirrel its command as it flew to protect its teammate. It was encased with electricity as it made contact with Rattata's belly and tackled the thing back. It landed as electricity began to course through its body, making it unable to move.
"Nice!" said Bolt to the girl, giving her a thumbs-up.
"Torkoal, Ancient Power!"
Orbs of glowing energy circled Torkoal before he shot them forward. They made contact with Squirtle as he was flung back.
"Alright, Eevee, use Dig!"
Eevee began to burrow into the ground, and a hole was left in the sand.
"Now, Emogla into the hole as well," said Lyra as her flying squirrel jumped into the burrow that Eevee had made.
"Squirtle, aim your Water Gun into the hole!" the trainer instructed his Pokémon.
"Torkoal, protect that hole with Iron Defense!" shouted Rainbow as she looked to cover her teammates.
The tortoise was positioned directly above the hole as he lay down and retracted himself into his shell. The attack from Squirtle made contact with its shell as it stood its ground.
"Rattata, Ice Beam!"
"Spearow, Drill Run!"
The rest of the trainers fired their attacks as they made contact with Torkoal's shell. The tortoise could feel the power behind all three attacks combined as he began to slide a bit. He could feel his strength failing, but knew that he would put his comrades at risk if he gave up.
"Hold on, Torkoal. Keep using Iron Defense!" shouted Rainbow.
"Tor- koal!" shouted the Pokémon as he willed himself not to move.
The tortoise did his best not to move, but it proved hard as his shell froze slowly from the ice beam. At that moment, the ground below Rattata crumbled as Eevee's tail smacked the rat, sending the Pokémon flying.
"Now, Emogla. Use Thunderbolt!" said Lyra.
The flying squirrel emerged from the hole after Eevee hopped out and unleashed a powerful move that made contact with Squirtle. The turtle felt the power of the squirrel's attack, but he couldn't handle it. He stopped moving before he fell over and fainted.
"Squirtle is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"Eevee, Iron Tail!" said Bolt as Eevee leaped into the air and made its tail have a metal coating that smacked Spearow in the face, causing it to let up against Torkoal's shell.
"Now, Torkoal, use Overheat on Ratatta!" said Rainbow.
The tortoise revealed his head and limbs as he powered up. The heat from its shell began to cook before he opened his mouth and fired a huge swirling beam of fire that made contact with the rat, who didn't stand a chance. He flung back and fell to the ground in a groan.
"Rattata is unable to battle!" informed Luna.
"Let's wrap this up! Eevee, Double Kick!" said Bolt.
The fox leaped into the air as it front-flipped and smacked Spearow with its hind legs and swatted the bird to the ground, who landed with a thud. A puff of sand went into the air before it died down, and showed Spearow on the ground as it joined its allies in defeat.
"Spearow is unable to battle. Which means the winners are Rainbow, Silverbolt, and Lyra!" said Luna as she aimed her arm in the direction of the trio.
"Yeah!" exclaimed Rainbow as she fist pumped their win.
"Nice work, Lyra."
"Thanks. You as well," said the girl, exchanging a high-five with her teammate.
"Alright, the next matchup will now begin!" said Celestia.
The next match featured the team of Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Spike, as Sweetie Belle decided to sit out and watch this match so she could cheer her friends.
"Now then… bring out your Pokémon!" said Luna.
"Let's fly, Woobat!" said Scootaloo.
"Herdier, let's get to work!" exclaimed Apple Bloom.
"Goomy, let's go!" said Spike.
All three Pokémon appeared, as their opponents were a Charmander, a Ghastly, and a Lombre.
"Alright… battle begin!" said Luna, waving the flag as the signal to start.
"Goomy, let's start with Rain Dance!" said Spike as his slug looked to the sky. He channeled his power as he made some clouds appear over the field before drops began to fall.
"Ooh, some nice weather to really give a change of scenario," said Juniper, looking through the camera's lens at the raindrops.
"Swoobat, Air Cutter!" said Scootaloo.
"Charmander, Flamethrower!"
The two Pokémon heard the commands from their trainers and fired their attacks. The two met in the middle as the fire didn't disappoint despite the rain. It created an explosion cloud as both Herdier and Lombre ran forward.
"Herdier, Take Down!"
"Lombre, Magical Leaf!"
Lombre made the leaves appear while it ran and shot them forward, encasing Herdier in the energy that gathered around it. The dog rushed forward and lunged as it took the leaves head-on, but didn't stop. It soon bulldozed right into Lombre, who felt the power behind the attack and was flung back. The dog jumped back as it felt some pain, but shook it off immediately.
"Now, Goomy, use Dragon Pulse!" said Spike.
The slug opened its mouth and fired a steady beam at Gastly as it avoided the attacks before disappearing. It surprised Spike and Goomy, as they didn't know where their opponent was. At that moment, Gastly reappeared before the slug, scaring Goomy.
"Ghastly, use Hypnosis!"
"Goomy!" shouted Spike as he wasn't prepared for that.
The burning ball of gas looked the slug in the eye as Goomy stared back. Gasty's eyes glowed as it seemed to be entering Goomy's mind and attempting to control it.
"Goomy!" yelled Spike as he couldn't do anything for his Pokémon.
Gastly ceased its Hypnosis as Goomy stood there with a blank stare. It then blinked as its eyes returned to normal and looked at its foe.
"Goomy!"
"Gastly!?" expressed the Pokémon as he was surprised that the little slug hadn't fallen asleep.
"Wait a minute, I thought Hypnosis puts Pokémon to sleep?" said Applejack.
"It does, but because Goomy has the ability: Hydration," said Twilight.
"What's Hydration?" asked the country gal.
"Hydration is a move that cures a Pokémon of any status condition in the rain. So since Spike had Goomy set up a rain dancer earlier, that rain protected it from falling asleep."
"So Spike set that up knowing Gastly would try to use Hypnosis, huh?" smiled Sky.
"Don't give my brother credit! I bet he doesn't even know about Goomy's ability!" said Twilight with a scoff.
"I have no idea what you did, bud, but great job!" said Spike as he looked at his slug, who responded to the boy. At that moment, the rain stopped as the clouds parted and rolled away. "Now, Goomy, use Bide!"
"Scoots, let's cover Spike!" said Apple Bloom.
"Yeah! Swoobat, use Giga Drain!"
"Herdier, Helping Hand!"
The two stood beside each other as Herdier put a paw on its comrade, who fired several green tentacles of energy that were coming at their foes. All the while, Goomy was charging up its power.
"Lombre, Bubblebeam."
"Charmander, help out by combining your Flamethrower with that Bubblebeam!"
The combination of fire and water proved to be a good idea as they converged into one powerful attack that broke up the powered-up Giga Drain. They pushed forward and made contact with both Herdier and Swoobat as they were flung back.
"Ghastly, Dark Pulse on Goomy!"
The gas ball fired its attack, smacking Goomy, who lost his concentration and was flung into the air. He cried as Spike and the girls gasped to see their plan foiled. Goomy hit hard, and Herdier and Swoobat struggled to get up after being hit by the fire-water combo.
"Bubblebeam again!"
"Flamethrower!"
The trainers aimed to execute the same combo again as they headed toward Scootaloo and Apple Bloom's Pokémon. The dog and bat could see the attack coming as they didn't have the strength even to move. At that moment, Goomy jumped directly in the line of sight and got blasted by the attack while wincing in pain.
"Goomy!" yelled Spike, seeing his small slug trying to play the hero.
The girls were shocked as they couldn't believe what they saw. The small slug did his best to fend off the attack, but it proved too much. The Pokémon knew he had to do all he could to help his teammates, even if it meant he would be hit hard. Goomy then began to feel something as he cried out.
"Goomy!" shouted Spike just as the attacks ended, and his Pokémon stood there.
Everything was silent momentarily before something happened to Goomy as it flashed white. It got everybody's attention, as despite the glowing light surrounding Goomy's body, they could see it starting to change. Once the light died down, Goomy was no longer there, as something else was in its place. Like Goomy, it too was a gooey purple snail-like Pokémon. The top of its body was a lighter shade of purple than its underside. It had four long, feeler-like horns atop its head and pale green spots lining its neck. It had tiny stub-like arms on its underbelly, and a gooey snail-like shell on its back.
"Goomy?" said Spike.
"Sliggoo!" responded the Pokémon as he stood tall and proud before his comrades.
"Wow… you evolved. Yeah!" shouted the small boy, excitedly jumping into the air.
"I can't believe it," said Twilgiht, almost shocked that Goomy had evolved before her eyes.
"So Goomy evolved into a Sliggoo, eh?" said Sky, pulling out his Pokédex.
"Sliggoo, the Soft Tissue Pokémon and the evolved form of Goomy. The swirly protrusion on its back is filled with all its vital organs, such as its brain and heart."
"Can you still battle, Sliggoo?" asked Spike.
"Sliggoo!" responded the Pokémon.
"Now, Swoobat! Air Cutter!"
"Herdier, Giga Impact!"
"Sliggoo, Dragon Pulse!"
All three Pokémon obeyed their trainers as they powered up their attacks before launching them. The attacks from Sliggoo and Swoobat surrounded Herdier in its Giga Impact move, giving it more power before crashing into all three of its opponents, as they didn't stand a chance. A huge explosion cloud occurred, and when it died down, all three Pokémon were down.
"Charmander, Gastly, and Lombre are unable to battle. The victors are Ms. Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Spike!" said Luna.
"Alright!" said Scootaloo as she exchanged high-fives with her teammates.
"Great work, guys!" said Sweetie Belle as she approached her teammates.
"Thanks," said Spike as he looked down at his newly evolved Pokémon. "It's awesome you evolved, Sliggoo."
"Sliggoo!" said as the horns on its head vibrated slightly.
"What was that?" asked Scootaloo.
"It's Sliggoo's way of communicating," said Twilight as she approached her brother and the girls alongside Sky and Applejack. "See, when Sliggoo evolves from Goomy, its eyes are blind."
"Really?" said the four kids.
"Not only that, it doesn't have ears or a nose. So it uses its four feeler-like horns as a radar system to sense sounds and smells," the bookworm explained as it blew away the kids' minds.
"That's so cool!" said Scootaloo while looking at Sliggoo.
"So Granny let you borrow Herdier for camp, eh, Apple Bloom?" said Aj as she bent down to the Pokémon and began to pet its head as it missed the girl's touch.
"Uh-huh, she said Herdier has been bored as of late and figured a change of scenery might be nice to lift its spirits," said Apple Bloom as both girls petted the farm dog, who stomped its back foot up and down.
"Want to meet a friend of mine?" asked Aj as she looked at her little sister and Herdier. "Boltund!"
The girl called on her canine as the dog appeared and stood proud before the country gal.
"Wowwie, big sis!" said Apple Bloom, unable to believe the huge dog that her older sister had caught.
"Boltund, meet my little sister, Apple Bloom. And this here is Herdier," said Aj.
The dog barked as he greeted the pair before the younger farmer approached it to pet it. He recognized the familiar touch of Applejack's that lingered in her sister as her apple scent, which he got from her, nearly sent him into overdrive. He tackled the younger sister to the ground and began to lick her face while Apple Bloom giggled at the affection she was getting.
"Good boy!" chuckled Apple Bloom as the dog's kisses pelted her.
Herdier barked to get the larger dog's attention as Boltund got off of Apple Bloom to look down at the smaller canine. The two began to speak in dog language as they understood one another. Soon, everyone's attention was caught.
"The next battle is about to begin. Will Ms. Applejack, Ms. Twilight Sparkle, and Sky please report to the field?" said Luna.
"Looks like it's our turn, girls. Come on, let's win this!" said Sky as Aj and Twilight followed him to the field while the girl's brother and friends returned to the bleachers to watch their battle. Boltund had decided to stick by Apple Bloom as he wanted to watch his trainer battle.
"Good luck, guys!" said Juniper as she waved from behind the camera.
"Reveal your Pokémon!" said Luna.
"Donphan, lend me yer strength!"
"Espeon, lend me your assistance!"
"Turtwig, I choose you!"
All three brought out their Pokémon as they stood confidently. Their opponents revealed their Pokémon as they would face the trio of Emboar, Umbreon, and Sneasel.
"Battle begin!" said Luna, giving the signal to start.
"Turtwig, use Razor Leaf!"
"Espeon, use Zap Cannon!"
Twilight and Sky both started by launching attacks at the same time.
"Umbreon, Protect!"
The Pokémon leaped before its two comrades, putting a barrier around them that tanked the hits from both Turtwig and Espeon while not even moving. Umbreon smirked while glaring at Twilight's Espeon, who didn't take too kindly to being mocked by its counterpart.
"Espeon, Quick Attack!"
"Umbreon, you as well!"
Both Eevee evolutions didn't waste any time as they charged at full speed at the command of their masters. Espeon and Umbreon bashed heads as they began to head butt the other in an attempt to overpower the other. The bitterness between the two was on full display as they each jumped back before rushing forward to crash heads again.
"Donphan, use Hidden Power!" instructed Applejack as she hoped to get Umbreon off of Espeon.
Glistening energy orbs surrounded the elephant as it shot toward its intended target. Just before they could make contact, a large figure appeared between them. The figure was Emboar, and it began to thrust its arms out to block each of the glowing orbs Donphan shot out. It shocked both Aj and her Pokémon as Emboar stood there with a cocky expression. Umbreon and Espeon were still having their headbutting competition as Emboar stepped forward and flexed its arms to showcase its power.
"Alright, Donphan, use Rollout!"
Donphan cried before quickly transforming into a ball that rolled toward Emboar at high speed.
"Emboar, Drain Punch!"
The large bipedal pig had his arm glow as he made contact with the rolling Donphan, and the two were now having their test of strength. Donphan was looking to bulldoze and run over the larger foe, pushing back on it. With their teammates being occupied, only Turtwig and Sneasel were left.
"Turtwig, use Tackle!"
"Sneasel, Fury Swipes!"
The small green creature rushed forward as Sneasel had its claws glow. It tried to strike at Turtwig, who jumped to the side to avoid the slash. He then jumped again to avoid another attack. Turtwig then began to hop around and bounce about as he dodged Sneasel's attempts to strike him. Yet, even with all the dodging, he couldn't find a safe opening as Sneasel wasn't allowing him to get in close. Turtwig landed before he bashed his head forward, which Sneasel blocked with both arms in an X as they joined their comrades in a standoff.
"And we have three struggles happening simultaneously!" said Luna to everyone as all six Pokémon were tied up with their respective foe.
Everyone focused on the three-way struggles as not one Pokémon wanted to give an inch. Espeom and Umbreon had sustained some hefty damage from bashing their heads against each other, as their bodies showed. The pair was panting heavily as they showcased their defiant strength.
"Umbreon, Shadow Ball!"
"Espeon, draw it in," said Twilight.
The Pokémon heard her mistress's command as she stood her ground and waited. The Shadow Ball was getting closer and closer as Espeon stood her ground. Twilight made her move just moments before the dark orb was about to make contact.
"Espeon, use Psychic in Emboar!"
Espeon gave a response and quickly looked in the direction of the giant pig. Its eyes and the gem on its forehead glowed as the large pig was yanked from behind and quickly flung toward Espeon, who many put it in the path of the Shadow Ball. It shocked both trainers and Umbreon as Donphan, still locked into Rollout, kept moving as it headed toward Sneasel and bashed into the Pokémon. All the built-up power from rolling in place effectively knocked it over.
"Alright, Turtwig, Razor Leaf on Umbreon!" said Sky.
Turtwig wasted no time flicking his twig and making razor-sharp leaves shoot out. He bombarded Umbreon, who felt like he was launched into the air. It soon came crashing down as it landed on its comrades before showing a set of swirling eyes.
"Umbreon, Emboar, and Sneasel are unable to battle! The Victors are Turtwig, Espeon, and Donphan!" said Luna, gesturing her arm toward the three.
"Oh yeah!" said Sky as he gave some high-fives to both Aj and Twilight. "Look out, Hall of Fame, we're coming for you!"
The battles raged as every group looked to advance and win some last-minute points for their respective teams. Right now, Rarity, Pinkie, and Fluttershy were doing their best against a tough trio of Beedrill, Blitzle, and Cufant. The girls had gone with Butterfree, Totadile, and, surprisingly, Sewaddle. Blitzle and Beedrill had been taken care of, but only Cufant remained, as all three girls' Pokémon were exhausted.
"Gummy, use Water Gun!" said Pinkie to her Totadile.
Totadile fired its Water Gun at the elephant, who took the hit and didn't budge.
"Cufant, Iron Head!"
The elephant charged forward and bashed into Totadile, who yelped in pain before hitting the ground.
"Totadile is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"This is bad!" said Fluttershy as only she and Rarity remained, and none of their bug Pokémon could take down the mini-elephant.
"Cufant, use Iron Head to wrap this up!"
The elephant charged forward, and the girls were helpless and didn't know what to do. Then, out of nowhere, Rarity's Sewaddle jumped in front of them and fired some String Shot at Cufant to slow it down. However, the elephant just pushed through it. Sewaddle fired a Razor Leaf attack, but that wasn't enough; the small silkworm was shoved to the side as it tumbled along the sand.
"Sewaddle!" shouted Rarity as she saw her Pokémon tossed around like a rag doll.
Sewaddle grunted in pain before he was grabbed by Cufant's trunk and lifted into the air. Cufant began to put the squeeze on the silkworm. Butterfree could see its comrade in trouble as it tried to stand up to help, but was too weak from all the damage it had endured in the battle. Rarity could only watch as her Sewaddle was in dire need. At that moment, something occurred. Sewaddle glowed as it surprised everyone.
"No way!" said Sky.
"Sewaddle's evolving!" said Twilight.
Cufant was stunned as the silkworm he held began to take a different shape. A mainly round Pokémon resembling a pupating caterpillar wrapped in leaves was in Cufant's trunk. Its body was yellow and wrapped in a cloak of green leaves. The top of its head was a 'V' shaped green leaf-like appendage with a frowning expression.
"Swadloon!" said the Pokémon.
"Sewaddle evolved into Swadloon," said Twilight.
"Swadloon, eh?" said Applejack, pulling out her Pokédex.
"Swadloon, the Leaf-Wrapped Pokémon, and the evolved form of Sewaddle. It protects itself from the cold by wrapping up in leaves. It stays on the move, eating leaves in forests."
Swadloon then opened its mouth as a green ball appeared before it was fired at close range into Cufant's face. The mini-elephant felt the power of the attack and dropped the covered caterpillar.
"Looks like Swadloon learned Energy Ball when evolving, Rarity!" said Sky as he knew the move that her Pokémon just did.
"In that case, Swadloon! Use Energy Ball!" said the fashionista.
Swadloon heard the command of its mistress as it fired another Energy Ball that hit Cufant in the face again. As the elephant stumbled back, a shine glowed over it momentarily before disappearing.
"Fluttershy!" shouted Rarity.
"Butterfree, Solar Beam!"
Butterfree recovered as it took to the air. It stood before the sun as it gathered some light in its wings, resulting in its glow. Once it gathered enough energy, Butterfree let loose a beam of sunlight headed toward Cufant, who saw the attack and was pelted from above. The Pokémon felt the sun's power, and a massive light show occurred. Once the light show died, Cufant stood tall before it toppled over and landed with a thud in front of Rarity's Swadloon.
"Cufant is unable to battle. The victors are Totadile, Butterfree, and Swadloon!" said Luna as she raised her arm in the girls' direction.
"We… won?" said Fluttershy in disbelief.
"Cufant's special defense was lowered twice due to Energy Ball, so when Butterfree fired its Solar Beam, no doubt it wouldn't be able to survive it," said Twilight.
"And with that, we now have the stage set for the final four teams!" said Celestia, getting everyone's attention.
She directed everyone to the board as Luna took the velcro label with Pinkie, Rarity, and Fluttershy's names and moved them onto the next bracket. The final four labels that remained were shown as everyone looked at them.
"So with our semi-finals set, let's run them down. The first semi-final match will be the Rainbow Dash, Silverbolt, and Lyra Heartstrings team against Ms. Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Spike. And on the other group battle, it'll be Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy against Sky, Twilight, and Applejack!" announced Celestia.
The twelve remaining trainers all had different expressions as Luna took the field.
"Now then… let's begin!" said Luna.
"Come on!" said Rainbow as she and her squad took the field.
The two teams were now facing each other, as this one battle could determine everything.
"Reveal your Pokémon!" stated Luna.
"Taillow/Greninja/Emogla!" said Rainbow's group.
"Swoobat/Herdier/Sliggoo!" said Scootaloo's group.
All six trainers brought out their Pokémon as they were ready to do battle.
"Begin!"
"Let's end this with one attack!" said Rainbow to her Pokémon.
"Swoobat, don't hold back!" shouted Scootaloo as she wanted to prove herself against the chromatic-haired girl.
"Aerial Ace/Acrobatics!" said both girls as their flying Pokémon began to zoom past each other in a blur while attacking each other.
"Greninja, use Water Shuriken!" instructed Silverbolt.
"Herdier, Mud Slap!" said Apple Bloom.
Herdier barked before he turned around and used his back legs to kick up some dirt as it flew into the air. Greninja made some ninja-throwing stars of water before throwing them out, and the two attacks met in the middle.
"Emogla, Thunderbolt!"
"Sliggoo, Dragon Breath!"
Spike and Lyra engaged in their battle, and all six went straight for a kill shot attempt. The two attacks met in the middle, causing a chain reaction that resulted in an explosion cloud.
"Greninja, follow it up with Aerial Ace!" said Bolt as his ninja frog took off and headed toward the dog.
"Nerdier, Giga Impact!" shouted Apple Bloom.
Her Pokémon ran forward to intercept the ninja frog as he kept low to the ground before jumping high into the air. The dog then leaped as a coat of energy surrounded it. Greninja thrusted one of its limbs out to make contact with its foe. Both Pokémon didn't let up before they were forced to drop down as they landed, with Herdier sustaining some recoil damage. At that moment, Greninja appeared above Herdier as it caught the dog off guard.
"Use Cut!" shouted Silverbolt.
Greninja then made a white energy rod appear in his hand before he zipped down and rushed past the dog. He held his arm as the Cut vanished; behind the ninja was Herdier before he fell over.
"Herdier is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"Great job, Greninja!" said Silverbolt as his Pokémon turned to nod.
With Scootaloo and Rainbow, their flying Pokémon were still trading blows as Swoobat came in for its latest attack, Taillow moved out of the way and redirected itself to be above the bat before coming down on it to pummel it toward the sand. Swoobat landed on the beach with a thud before it lay there not moving an inch.
"Swoobat is unable to battle!"
"No!" said Scootaloo as she couldn't believe she had lost.
"Aw, yeah! Nice work, Taillow!" said Rainbow.
"Taillow!" shouted the small bird Pokémon, extending its wings before it glowed white.
The sudden light caught everyone's attention as they looked on. Taillow's shape began to extend and get bigger, and when it died down, there stood a different Pokémon. A large, navy blue, swallow-like Pokémon with a somewhat chubby underbelly and a red breast and face was shown. Its tail was deeply forked, and it had a crest of feathers on the back of its head.
"Swellow!" shouted the Pokémon.
"I… I don't believe it," spoke Rainbow softly while pulling out her Pokédex.
"Swellow, the Swallow Pokémon, and the evolved form of Taillow. Swellow flies high above our heads, making graceful arcs in the sky. This Pokémon dives at a steep angle when it spots its prey."
"You… you evolved."
"Swellow!" said the bird as he looked at Rainbow, who almost wanted to burst into tears at seeing her partner Pokémon reach its full evolution.
Rainbow did her best not to cry, as she didn't want to lose her cool in front of everyone. She took a moment to raise her arm to dry some water while making it look like she had something in her eye as a cover. A hand touched her shoulder as she looked at Silverbolt, who smiled, knowing what the girl was trying to do. He gave her his support and congratulations on her new achievement with her Pokémon.
At that moment, a thud was heard as both looked to see that Emolga and Sliggoo were knocked out from each other's final blow and fell to the ground. Seeing both Pokémon lying on the ground, Luna raised her arm and gave the final verdict.
"Both Emogla and Sliggoo are unable to battle. Since Sliggoo, Swoobat, and Herdier cannot battle, the victors are Swellow, Greninja, and Emolga!" stated Luna, pointing to Rainbow's side.
"We're in the finals," smiled Bolt at the girl, who was ecstatic to hear that.
"Aw, man. I can't believe we lost!" said Scootaloo as she and her friends were all seated in disappointment.
"Cheer up, y'all! You did well. Especially you, Apple Bloom!" said Applejack as she looked at her younger sister and rubbed her head.
"The next battle is about to begin!" said Celestia, getting the country gal's attention.
"Sit tight, y'all!"
Applejack soon joined her teammates as they stood across the field from Pinkie, Rarity, and Fluttershy.
"Reveal your Pokémon!" said Celestia from the cabin's porch.
At her command, all six teens threw out their Pokémon. From Pinkie, she was using her Slurpuff. For Rarity, she was relying on her Delcatty, and for Fluttershy, she was using her Eevee. Twilight revealed her Metagross, Sky used his Buizel, and Applejack showcased her Boltund.
"Alright… let the battle begin!" said Luna.
"Buizel, use Water Gun!"
"Bui-zel!" shouted the Pokémon as he reeled his head back before shooting a steady stream of water directly at his foes.
"Slurpuff, Cotton Guard!" said Pinkie.
Her Pokémon rushed forward before jumping into the air as its body was coated with cotton that served as a second cushion of protection to avoid taking any damage to itself and its teammate.
"Boltund, Wild Charge!" shouted Applejack.
Her canine took off in a blitz of electricity as it headed toward the trio.
"Eevee, Protect!" said Fluttershy.
Eevee stood before its teammates as it put up a barrier to shield its comrade. Boltund tried to push through it, but it didn't have enough power to break through and was pushed back. The canine landed beside its comrade as Rarity's Delcatty began its attack.
"Delcatty, use Blizzard!"
Rarity's Pokémon fired an icy wind that blew over the field. Buizel and Boltund braced themselves as the cold air damaged them so that they couldn't see straight. A large figure loomed over them. Twilight's Metagross was shown as it put its legs before its comrades to shield them from the cold air.
"Metagross, Meteor Mash!" said the bookworm.
"Meta!" said the Pokémon as it took off.
Metagross hurled itself forward as it surrounded itself in an aura.
"Slurpuff, Cotton Guard!"
"Eevee, Protect!"
Both Pokémon formed defensively as they saw Twilight's Pokémon coming at them. The two prepared themselves as they underestimated just how powerful Metagross was. The Pokémon bashed through Eevee's shield and flung the fox into Slurpuff, which was thrown into Delcatty. The force that flung all three was flung into each other, causing them all to tumble to the ground. They lay there, not moving for a while.
"Eevee, Slurpuff, and Delcatty are unable to battle! The victors are Metagross, Buizel, and Boltund!" said Luna.
"Wow!" said Spike, amazed to see his sister single-handedly defeat their opponents due to her Metagross's power.
"And so we have our final two teams. From the Red Team, it's the group of Rainbow Dash, Silverbolt, and Lyra. And from the Yellow Team, it's Twilight, Sky, and Applejack. Both teams will have one hour to develop their team strategies," said Celestia.
"I've been getting some amazing footage," said Juniper as she plugged some cables into her camera and began to upload the tape into her drive.
"Well, the best is yet to come. Once we win this final match, we'll get the Yellow Team in first place and enter the Hall of Fame!" said Sky.
"So, what Pokémon have you all decided to use in the finals?" asked Juniper as she wiped her glasses.
"You'll see. I devised the optimized plan," said Twilight.
"I'm still worried. Rainbow and Silverbolt ain't no pushovers. Even that Lyra girl herself," said Applejack.
"Attention, the final match of the Team Battle is about to begin. Both teams, please make your way to the beach!" said Celestia over the PA system.
"Are we ready?" asked Twilight.
"All set!" said Juniper as she finished uploading the footage to her drive.
"Just make sure you get the winning shot, Juniper," said Sky with a wink as the group got up from the table.
Everyone had gathered to watch the final match of the tournament take place. Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, and the others all sat together as they prepared to watch their friends partake in one final bout to determine which team would win and get all their members into the camp's Hall of Fame. All six trainers stood on their respective sides as Luna was off to the side as she got everyone's attention.
"This is the final battle. The winner will win and secure the winning number of points to get their entire team into the Hall of Fame. Now then… reveal your Pokémon!" said Luna.
"Swellow, you're up to bat!" shouted Rainbow.
"Espeon, lend me your assistance!" said Twilight.
"Emolga, grace us!" said Lyra.
"Breloom, lend me yer strength!" stated Applejack.
"Rowlet, time for us to show them what it's all about!" said Silverbolt.
"Pikachu, I choose you!" said Sky.
All six Pokémon appeared as they each looked ready to fight.
"The final battle begins… NOW!" yelled Luna.
"Pikachu, let's start off with Thunderbolt!" said Sky.
The yellow mouse charged up as he let loose a powerful attack.
"Emolga, intercept it!" said Lyra.
Her flying squirrel flew in the path of Pikachu's Thunderbolt as it absorbed the electricity. Emolga had a smile on its face as the Thunderbolt from the yellow mouse was more of a tickle to it.
"Well, that's not good," stated Twilight.
"Alright, Swellow, take off!" said Rainbow as she moved in for the next part of their plan.
"Swellow!" said the bird.
"Swellow, use Double Team!"
At her command, her bird began to make multiple copies of itself as they swarmed the beach while heading toward their opponents.
"Breloom, get rid of them all with Bullet Seed!" said Applejack.
The Pokémon took a firm position and began to fire rapidly at the many copies of the bird. The fakes were taken out in one fell swoop, but the real Swellow was nowhere to be seen.
"Now's our chance. Rowlet, use Razor Leaf!" said Bolt.
His tiny owl flew into the air and let loose a barrage of leaves.
"Espeon, use Psychic on those leaves!" said Twilight.
Her Pokémon hopped forward as its eyes and the gem on its forehead glowed. In an instant, the leaves all stopped mid-air; however, at that moment, Swellow appeared out of nowhere and attacked Espeon, taking it off balance. It surprised Twilight, Applejack, and Sky as they didn't expect a sneak attack from Rainbow.
"Now, Emolga, Thunder Wave on Breloom!" said Lyra.
The flying squirrel flew over Aj's Pokémon and surrounded it in a dome of electricity. The shroom felt it and began to wince as electricity coursed through its body.
"Aj!" said Sky as he saw his teammates in trouble.
"Rowlet, Seed Bomb!" said Silverbolt, having a clear shot at a distracted Sky.
The owl fired one massive green energy bomb toward the pair. Sky and Pikachu noticed the attack coming, and they acted quickly.
"Pikachu, Iron Tail!"
The yellow rodent heard the boy's command as he leaped into the air and twisted his body, but its tail had a metal coating. The tail made contact with Rowlet's Seed Bomb and sliced it in half. The two halves split and landed beside the mouse on the sand, tossing some into the air.
"Damn it!" said Rainbow as their plan all but worked as Sky and Pikachu were able to protect themselves.
"Girls, you okay?" asked Sky.
"Espeon?" said Twilight as her Pokémon managed to get up.
"Breloom?" asked Applejack, as her Pokémon still had bits of static surging but willed itself to keep fighting.
Despite having some setbacks, both Pokémon were still raring to go.
"Don't let them breathe!" said Silverbolt to Rainbow and Lyra. "Rowlet, close in and use Leaf Blade!"
"Pikachu, counter with Iron Tail!"
The green owl zoomed forward, and one of its wings glowed green. Pikachu stood on its hind legs, and its tail was coated in metal. The two began to spin about and backstep, trading attacks like crossing swords in close quarters.
"Keep it up with Leaf Blade, Rowlet!"
"Don't back down, Pikachu!"
"Swellow, Aerial Ace!"
"Espeon, get moving with Quick Attack!"
Espeon took off as it raced along the sand to confuse its opponent. Swellow was hot on Espeon's tail as it was closing in. Espeon quickly jumped and used its psychic abilities to detect the bird as it jumped backward in a flip at the last second to avoid the bird's attack before safely landing. Rainbow gritted her teeth as she didn't like her attack, which failed to make contact.
"Breloom, Mach Punch on Emogla!" said Applejack.
"Emogla, dodge it!" said Lyra.
The flying squirrel began to use it gliding skills to avoid the punches thrown by Applejack's Breloom.
"Keep it up!" shouted Applejack.
Breloom heard the command of its mistress, determined not to let the flying squirrel mock it. It began to pick up the pace of its speed and kicks, throwing its tail in as a weapon, which caught Emogla off guard due to its longer reach than the mushroom's limbs.
Unbeknownst to Emogla, Breloom pushed it toward Rowlet and Pikachu as the mushroom looked to corner its foe. Breloom went for its latest Mach Punch as Emogla flew up to avoid it; at the same time, Rowlet flapped back to avoid Pikachu's attempt to strike and turned to be smacked face-first by Breloom's punch. Emogla was shocked as Pikachu leaped high into the air to be positioned above the flying squirrel and did a front head-over-heels flip with its tail still encased in a metal coat. The yellow rodent rotated itself so that its tail made contact with Emogla, who winced in pain.
"Nicely done, buddy!" said Sky to his Pikachu.
"Alright, Rowlet! Brave Bird!" shouted Silverbolt.
The small owl heard the command as he took to the air and quickly found itself in a blazing energy before he rocketed back toward the ground. Breloom could see the attack coming as it prepared to move, but the paralysis from Emogla's Thunder Wave kicked in as it immobilized the shroom. At that moment, Rowlet crashed into Breloom, causing an explosion cloud. Rowlet was flung. Back and tumbled along the sand, as it had bits of damage on it. As it struggled to get up, the smoke began to clear as Breloom was shown on the ground.
"Breloom is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"Breloom, no!" shouted Applejack.
"Swellow, use Steel Wing!" said Rainbow.
Swallow came barreling behind Espeon as it made contact with it. Twilight gasped as she saw her Pokémon flung to the ground.
"Espeon is unable to battle!" shouted Luna.
"Sorry, sugar," said Applejack as she and Twilight recalled their Pokémon.
"We're not out of this yet, girls!" said the boy, as only he and Pikachu remained on their team.
"We got this!" said Rainbow as Sky was in a three-on-one situation.
"Pikachu, use Quick Attack on Rowlet!" stated Sky as he looked to take advantage of the recovery bird.
"Emogla, get in there and use Acrobatics!" said Lyra, hoping to protect her teammate.
"Swellow, you come from behind and use Aerial Ace!" said Rainbow.
Emoji swooped in and intercepted Pikachu, stopping the yellow mouse from getting to its teammate. He stopped and began to backstep from Emogla, flying by to attack it, as Swellow came from behind.
"Pikachu, use your tail to propel yourself upward!" said Sky.
Pikachu jumped back as it twisted its body so that it could use its tail to bounce even higher into the air. Swellow and Emogla saw the rodent launch upward. They then focused back to what was in front of them, as they were about to crash into one another, and quickly changed their trajectories to fly sideways as they passed by each other. As Emogla straightened out, Pikachu was descending fast and coming right on top of it.
"Iron Tail!" shouted Sky.
Pikachu twisted his body and aimed his tail, which was now covered in a metal coating, to deliver it hard upon Emogla, who didn't see it and was swatted to the ground. The yellow mouse landed on all fours, and behind it, a small sand cloud puffed up before it revealed the downed Emogla.
"Emogla is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"That's one!" said Twilight as she and Applejack watched their teammate remove one of their opponents.
"We can't let him win, not when we have the advantage! Bolt, get ready to strike. Swellow, use Double Team!" said Rainbow.
Her bird flew toward Pikachu as it made several copies of itself appear.
"Pikachu, use Thunderbolt and mow them all down!"
The rodent heard the boy's command as he charged up and released a powerful attack that spread all over the air, taking each copy out. When it died down, Rowlet was fully recovered as he kept low to the ground and zeroed in on his foe.
"Leaf Blade!" shouted Bolt.
Rowlet had one of his wings glow green as he did a drive-by and sliced at Pikachu, who felt it and dropped to a knee.
"Swellow, Aerial Ace!"
Swellow came from above and did a twirl before bashing into Pikachu, making the rodent tumble along the beach. Pikachu grunted as he struggled to stand with both foes coming at it.
"Let's end this!" stated Silverbolt to Rainbow. "Rowlet, get on Swellow's back and use Razor Leaf!"
"Swellow, Double Team, one more time!"
The owl landed on its comrade's back as it began producing copies of them. All the copies began to fire multiple Razor Leafs as they headed toward Pikachu.
"Pikachu, spin and use Thunderbolt!" instructed Sky.
Pikachu quickly leaped and began to spin on its back while letting loose its attack. The Thunderbolt began to spread out in a cone as it protected the rodent from all sides. At the same time, it took out the copies and eventually found the real ones and struck both. Rainbow and Silverbolt were shocked to see the technique that Sky had Pikachu use to defend and attack. Both birds fell to the ground as they grunted.
"Now, Volt Tackle!"
Pikachu took off and began to collect energy, encasing itself in powerful energy as it headed toward the pair.
"Rowlet, intercept with Brave Bird!" stated Silverbolt as he looked to protect Rainbow.
Rowlet quickly pushed up and took off as he encased himself in energy. The two massive buildups were heading toward each other and collided within seconds. Massive power was exerted, creating a huge wind that caused everyone to cover up as their clothes and hair flapped in the wind. Shooting out from the collision cloud were Rowlet and Pikachu, as both tumbled and had battle bruises on their bodies. Pikachu tumbled, used his momentum to recover, and skidded to a halt on all fours while Rowlet was completely removed.
"Rowlet is unable to battle!" said Luna.
"Use Quick Attack!" said Rainbow, going in for the kill shot Silverbolt gave her.
"Pikachu, Iron Tail!"
Pikachu stood his ground as his tail turned into a metal coating. Coming at it was Swellow, who was charging headfirst for the final blow. The rodent held strong as he didn't move until it was the right time. Swellow got closer and closer as finally… he made his move and twisted his body just as Swellow made contact. The two figures zoomed past each other as Pikachu landed on its hind legs and didn't flinch; behind it, Swellow flew briefly before it landed abruptly on the sand and didn't move. When revealed, its eyes swirled, a clear sign of this battle.
"Swellow is unable to battle! Therefore, the victors are Espeon, Breloom, and Pikachu! The winning team is… the Yellow Team!" declared Celestia as she pulled the string, and confetti rained down onto the porch with a banner unfurling that read: Congrats.
"Yes! We did it, bud!" said Sky as he raced to his Pikachu.
Pikachu turned to race at his trainer, jumped into his arms, and nuzzled the boy, who hugged him. He then extended his arms as he helped the yellow mouse up high.
"Great work, Pikachu."
"Pikachu!" responded the mouse with a smile.
"Damn it!" yelled Rainbow as she returned Swellow.
"Well, you win some, you lose some," smiled Silverbolt as he returned Rowlet. "Great work, Rowlet. Take a rest."
"Let's give a big round of applause to the Yellow Team for not only winning, but each member will be inducted into this year's Hall of Fame!" said Celestia as all the other trainers applauded. "With that, the final day of camp has ended. You all are invited to attend a massive bonfire dinner tonight."
Sundown was shown setting up the camp as everyone gathered before Celestia and Luna, who stood before them.
"So this brings the camp to an end! First, congratulations to the Yellow Team on their victory! And of course, all the other teams were wonderful too. And so we say goodbye to you with our one wish for all of you: that your friendship with all Pokémon deepens, and you always learn from each other! We sincerely hope from the bottom of our hearts that the experience all of you gained as you competed alongside your Pokémon will be truly memorable and invaluable. May your journeys be rich and full. And keep traveling onwards and upwards along with your Pokémon!"
"Right!" responded the trainers to Celestia's statement.
"Now, let's celebrate!" said Luna as fireworks went off.
The whole bonfire dinner was in full swing as all the trainers began to enjoy each other's company one final time before they each left in the morning. Celestia and Luna gave each trainer plaques to serve as a memento of their time at camp. Soon, Sky, Juniper, Twilight, and Applejack all got together for a group photo as all members of the Yellow Team had their photo taken so that future generations could look at it for years to come.
"Applejack, Sky."
"What is it, Professor Celestia?" asked the boy as the woman approached the pair.
"I heard you two are going to the Dragonlands to challenge the gym there. Correct?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"In that case, I've prepared two special Pokémon for you. Here. Take these," said Celestia as she presented her hands, a Pokéball in each. Sky looked at her left hand while Aj looked at her right, and they took the special Pokémon the professor had given them. "I have no doubt these will prove useful in your upcoming challenges."
"Thanks so much, Professor!" smiled Applejack, as she couldn't wait to see what kind of Pokémon she was given for her gym challenge.
Sky also smiled while looking at the Pokéball that Celestia had given him; he then noticed Juniper was sitting quite a way from the bonfire, and she looked up at the sky.
"Is everything okay, Juniper?" asked the boy as he approached the girl.
"It's all done. You know, over! It's the last night!
"Yeah! Of course!"
The girl smiled before standing up as she and Sky looked at the stars above.
"I never thought coming to camp would be so much fun. It blew my expectations!"
"I had a lot of fun, too!"
"So… I guess this is where we part ways, huh?"
"Hey!" said the boy, getting the girl's attention as he put his hand out. "We'll meet again. No doubt!"
"Yeah!" nodded the girl as she felt Sky was true to her word.
With a firm shake, she extended her hand and shook Sky's as their new friendship was not one to forget.
"Next time we meet, let's have a battle."
"Yeah. Good luck with your next gym battle. I'll be cheering you on!"
Morning came as everyone was preparing to head out. Granny Smith came to pick up Apple Bloom as the girl waved goodbye to her new friends and big sis, as she looked forward to the next time she would see her. Juniper had also said goodbye as she informed the others that she would be heading home to her uncle to work on the next film he was directing. Sky, Twilight, and Aj wished the girl luck as she set off. With everyone mostly gone, all that remained were our heroes as they each stood at the camp's entrance, prepared to go off in opposite directions.
"Guess we'll run into each other down the line, eh!" said Silverbolt.
"Good luck, you two!" said Sky.
"Same to you, bud!"
"You may have gotten lucky by beating us. But rest assured, I'm gonna make it to the league. So you two better hurry up and qualify so that I beat you both!" said Rainbow.
"We're all rivals here, Dash!" smirked Applejack as she, Sky, Silverbolt, and Rainbow exchanged a fierce staredown, knowing they all had the same goal.
"Then may the best trainer win," responded Twilight as she could tell each was fired up and competitive.
"Take care, everyone!" said Pinkie as she, Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Silverbolt began to walk while waving goodbye.
At that same time, Sky and the others turned and did the same as they walked down another path toward their destination.
An experience like attending Celestia and Luna's camp doesn't come along daily, but our heroes and many new friends took full advantage of the opportunity! And so, with the next gym battle on their traveling calendar, Sky and friends' exciting journey continues!
Author's Note: And so ends our heroes' journey at camp. No doubt it was filled of fun memories, and not only that, we got plenty of evolutions that occurred from all the battling that took place. And now it's time for our heroes to get back on their journey as for Sky and Applejack, their next gym awaits. And as for Juniper, this isn't the last time we'll be seeing her.