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Chapter Text

Goh: So Ash Are you ready for the Masters Eight?

Ash: Yep just need to make one more call

[Ash Presses his Homing Beacon.]

Lisa: Greeting Ketchum, how may I assist?

Ash: Can you get Lincoln And Mirabel here?

Lisa: On it.

[A few moments later a portal appears and Lincoln and Mirabel come through.]

Ash: Guys!

[The trio hug.]

Lincoln: Ash! How’ve you been, man?

Ash: Pretty good.

Ash: The master’s eight starts tomorrow!

Mirabel: Woah I still can’t believe you're one of the top 8 strongest trainers in the world.

Ash: Yep What's going on with you

[The trio catch up on their adventures.]

Chapter Text

No sooner have The Trio and Goh arrived at Wyndon Stadium for the long-awaited World Coronation Series Masters Eight Tournament that a boy runs up to them and demands a battle with Ash, despite being fully aware of his status as a member of the Master Class. Not one to turn down a challenge, Ash immediately accepts, but the match ends up being short-lived, as Pikachu defeats the boy's Wooloo with a single Iron Tail. To The Trio and Goh's surprise, the boy reveals that he's Leon's younger brother, Hop. Having sworn to be the one to defeat his big brother, Hop challenged Ash to test out the strength of the person his elder sibling is always talking about. Hearing that Leon talks about him makes Ash super excited. Nearby, Team Rocket is hosting a live stream of their radio show to cover the tournament, although their main goal is to scout out strong Pokémon for them to steal.

After reuniting with Iris on his way to the locker room and the rest of the Master Class in said room, Ash joins them for the opening ceremony. One by one, the announcer introduces the Masters Eight to the audience:

Dan: First up we have Ash Ketchum The Champion of Alola!

Goh: Yeah Ash!

Mirabel: My Brother!

Lincoln: Give it your all!

Iris, an aspiring Dragon Master and the young Champion of Unova; Alain, a Mega Stone excavator and the winner of the Lumiose Conference; Diantha, a world-famous actress and the Champion of Kalos; Lance, a member of the Pokémon G-Men and the newly crowned Champion of Kanto and Johto; Steven Stone, the heir of the Devon Corporation and the Champion of Hoenn; Cynthia, the world's renowned authority in Pokémon archeology and the Champion of Sinnoh; and finally Leon, the undefeated Galar Champion and the reigning Monarch. Leon invites all the other competitors to face him with their full strength, declaring he and his team will battle anyone and emerge victorious. With the introductions done, the matchups of the first round are selected via random shuffle. In the first battle, Leon will battle Alain; the second match will have Lance and Diantha facing each other; Cynthia will face Iris in the third match, much to the latter's worry; and Steven is pitted against Ash for the fourth match. Steven expresses positivity at the chance to finally have a battle against Ash. While the other Champions return to the locker room to wait for their respective turns, Ash joins Goh, Lincoln, Mirabel and Hop in the stands to experience the atmosphere of the battle first-hand.

Ash: Yeah guys mind if I join ya?

Lincoln: Sure

Mirabel: Fine with me

Goh: Okay

When questioned by Cynthia why she doesn't join them, Iris reveals her hopes to take a picture with her and Diantha, a request both women are fully happy to oblige. Lance and Steven, meanwhile, discuss the latter's familiarity with Alain. Though Steven acknowledges that Alain is a powerful Trainer, facing Leon in the first round could be overwhelming for him.

Leon and Alain enter the battlefield to begin their match. Dan recites the rules: the matches in the first round will be three-on-three with no restrictions on time or exchanges. In addition, each Trainer is allowed only one use of either Dynamax, Z-Moves, or Mega Evolution. At his signal, the two Trainers send out their first Pokémon, with Alain leading with Chesnaught and Leon choosing Rillaboom, making the first match-up a clash between Grass types. Alain makes the first move with Hammer Arm, which Rillaboom easily endures. Leon then surprises everyone by going for his Gigantamax right off the bat, summoning Gigantamax Rillaboom onto the battlefield. His first attack comes in the form of a G-Max Drum Solo. While the G-Max Move is able to partially penetrate Chesnaught's Spiky Shield, the Spiny Armor Pokémon still withstands it, just like Alain had planned. Rillaboom next attacks with Max Airstream, which Chesnaught rides with Gyro Ball. Chesnaught manages to land the attack on its foe, though backstage, Diantha notes that Rillaboom's Speed has now increased as a result of Max Airstream. After blocking Chesnaught's Pin Missile with Max Quake, Rillaboom reverts to its normal form and proceeds to use its Speed increase to outmaneuver Chesnaught's second Gyro Ball and defeat it with Acrobatics, giving Leon the first knockout. Steven and Lance note that Leon was one step ahead of Alain in the Grass-type showdown, signaled by Rillaboom's knowledge of Acrobatics.

Alain's next choice is his Charizard, drawing the excitement of Ash, who reveals to Goh, Lincoln, Mirabel and Hop that he has battled Alain's Charizard many times in the past.

Noticing the fire in Charizard's eyes, Leon is eager to test the strength of his next opponent. Charizard easily powers through Rillaboom's Drum Beating with Flare Blitz and deals a super effective hit, taking Rillaboom out and evening the odds. Leon responds by sending out his own Charizard. However, after a Dragon Claw is dodged and his Charizard takes a hit from Air Slash, Alain figures he can't get close enough and recalls Charizard in favor of Malamar, hoping to use it to turn things around. This hope is soon crushed, however, as Malamar's Psycho Cut is blocked by a Fire Blast, and the Overturning Pokémon's attempt to use Throat Chop ends with it being grabbed and taken down by a close-range Fire Blast, leaving Alain with just his Charizard, which rejoins the battle while Leon announces that he will keep his own Charizard out. Alain announces that it's his goal to surpass Leon's Charizard and uses his Mega Ring to Mega Evolve his partner into Mega Charizard X, much to Ash's thrill. Alain's Charizard powers through its opponent's Ancient Power with Dragon Claw and deals a successful hit, but its subsequent Flare Blitz results in it getting struck by a point-blank super effective Dragon Pulse, defeating it and eliminating Alain from the tournament.

With Leon moving on to the semifinals, the first battle of the first round of the Masters Eight Tournament has come to a close. Alain accepts his loss with dignity and swears to redo his training in preparation for a rematch. To decide Leon's next opponent, Lance and Diantha leave the locker room and step out onto the battlefield, preparing to start their own battle.

(NEXT MATCH)

The second battle of the World Coronation Series Masters Tournament's first round is about to get underway as Lance and Diantha enter the Wyndon Stadium battlefield. In the stands, Ash tells Goh, Lincoln, Mirabel and Hop how he's actually battled against Diantha before, much to their amazement.

Lincoln: That’s so cool!

Mirabel: Yeah!

Elsewhere in the stadium, Team Rocket is continuing their live coverage of the event, although Jessie refuses to acknowledge Diantha as a superior actress to her. Both Champions give speeches about how they shoulder the hopes of the Trainers of their respective regions and look forward to facing each other. Dan explains the usual rules: the battle will be three-on-three, with substitutions allowed to be made at any time. Moreover, each competitor may only use one of either Dynamax, Mega Evolution, or Z-Moves per battle.

At Dan's signal, the first pair of Pokémon is sent out. Lance leads with his Dragonite, while Diantha's first choice is Aurorus. Lance makes the first move by ordering a Hyper Beam, but it ends up being heavily weakened by Aurorus's Light Screen. As Dragonite is forced to recharge after using Hyper Beam, Diantha uses the opportunity to hit Dragonite with a super effective Blizzard. Despite taking heavy damage from the attack, Dragonite is able to endure it, and, immediately after it has finished recharging, deals its own blow of super effective damage with Body Press. The second Body Press, however, is softened up by Reflect, giving Aurorus a double layer of protective barriers to hide behind. In the locker room, Alain notes that the screen moves will fade eventually and only provide temporary defenses. Based on the current situation, both Steven and Cynthia believe Diantha has the advantage at the moment. Undeterred, Lance has Dragonite attack with Twister, while Aurorus uses Rock Slide. Both attacks hit their mark, but unlike Dragonite, Aurorus is unable to withstand the hit and faints, giving Lance the first knockout of the match.

As Diantha recalls her fainted Pokémon, Lance decides do the same and withdraws Dragonite. Diantha's second Pokémon choice is Gourgeist, which elates Jessie, as she once owned a Gourgeist as well. Against the Ghost/Grass opponent, Lance chooses his Red Gyarados. Gourgeist begins the round by using Trick-or-Treat. Hop explains to The trio and Goh that Trick-or-Treat is Gourgeist's signature move, which adds Ghost to the opponent's type, meaning that Gyarados is now weak against Ghost-type moves. Gyarados attacks with Aqua Tail, which pushes Gourgeist back, even through Reflect. Knowing that the effect of Light Screen will end soon, Lance orders a Dragon Pulse. Before the attack can go off, Gourgeist attacks first with Shadow Sneak, which, thanks to Trick-or-Treat, deals big damage on Gyarados. The Dragon Pulse is still successfully fired, however, hitting Gourgeist just as Light Screen fades away. Lance aims for a finishing blow with Ice Fang, but Gourgeist uses Phantom Force to evade it. Although Gyarados manages to hit Gourgeist with a Dragon Pulse afterwards, the damage from Phantom Force is too much for it to withstand and it faints, evening the odds and making Team Rocket shed tears of joy at seeing a Gourgeist succeed.

Lance's third Pokémon is Hydreigon, which Diantha also feels prepared for, having Gourgeist use Trick-or-Treat on it. Ignoring this, Lance has Hydreigon use Dark Pulse. Not only does the attack hit its mark just as Reflect fades away, but it also causes Gourgeist to flinch, leaving it open for another super effective Dark Pulse. The attack is enough to defeat the Pumpkin Pokémon, much to Jessie's dismay. Talking to Gyarados's Poké Ball, Lance thanks it for enabling this victory. Diantha's third and final Pokémon is her ace, Gardevoir, whom she immediately Mega Evolves. Diantha orders a Shadow Ball, which Hydreigon successfully counters with Tri Attack. Lance follows up by calling for Flash Cannon, which ends up being easily dispersed by Gardevoir's Psychic. Gardevoir launches a Moonblast, and though Hydreigon attempts to withstand the attack, it is engulfed by a massive explosion and knocked out, meaning that both Trainers now have just one Pokémon left.

Dragonite re enters the battlefield, full of confidence. Lance wastes no time in using his Dynamax Band to Dynamax Dragonite, increasing its stamina in the process. Backstage, Alain notes that, unlike Mega Evolution, Dynamax has a time limit, which could end up being a decisive factor. Gardevoir's Moonblast powers through Dragonite's Max Hailstorm and scores a hit, which the Dragon Pokémon successfully endures. Max Hailstorm's secondary effect results in hail starting to fall over the battlefield, slowly chipping away at the stamina of both Pokémon. Confident that Dragonite can handle it, Lance orders a Max Strike, which engulfs Gardevoir, but even while being pummeled by the Max Move, Gardevoir is still able to use Shadow Ball. Dragonite counters with Max Wyrmwind, which, while useless against a Fairy type like Gardevoir, is still able to completely stop and dissipate the Shadow Ball before it can make contact. Both Diantha and Ash surmise that Lance is trying to keep Dragonite standing so he can attack as soon as its Dynamax state ends. This is proven true moments later as Dragonite returns to normal size and fires a Hyper Beam. Diantha is unconcerned and has Gardevoir attack with Moonblast, evading the Hyper Beam and dealing the finishing blow on its immobilized opponent. Dan declares Diantha the winner of the match, meaning that she'll be advancing to the semifinals to be Leon's next opponent, although Hop is confident that his brother is going to win. In Diantha's post-battle interview with Team Rocket, Diantha thanks her fans in Kalos, while Jessie gets up in her face and insists that she use Gourgeist as her final Pokémon in the next battle, much to Diantha's confusion.

Backstage, the trio meets with Lance, who seems positive, despite his defeat, and tells Ash to hang in there. The trio is then approached by a very excited Iris, who is eager to let loose after witnessing two heated battles. They exchange greetings as Ash wishes her good luck against Cynthia, and she eagerly rushes to the battlefield. Once both competitors are in place, Dan gives the signal to send out the first Pokémon. Iris's lead is her trusted starter Pokémon, Excadrill, which Ash is excited to see again. On the opposite side of the field, Cynthia sends out Gastrodon as her first Pokémon, marking the start of the battle between the Sinnoh and Unova Champions.

(NEXT MATCH)

The entire Wyndon Stadium is eagerly awaiting the start of the third battle of the World Coronation Series Masters Eight Tournament, which is going to be a match between Unova Champion Iris and Sinnoh Champion Cynthia. In the audience, Hop learns from Goh that not only has Ash traveled together with Iris, but he is also well acquainted with Cynthia, leaving Hop baffled at how many Champion connections Ash has. Meanwhile, Team Rocket, while taking a forced break of their broadcast due to their Rotom Phone falling asleep, recognize the fancily dressed Iris as the "Unova twerpette". Backstage, Diantha and Alain express their surprise at seeing Iris use an Excadrill, despite her being a Dragon user.

At Dan's signal, the battle begins. Cynthia makes the first move by having her Gastrodon use Rain Dance to summon a rainstorm. Excadrill dashes through the rain with Metal Claw, but Gastrodon takes the hit without effort. Cynthia acknowledges Iris's improvement, while Iris thanks Cynthia for the advice she gave her the last time they battled, which helped her grow and become Unova's Champion, and now, she intends to beat Cynthia while bearing that title. Gastrodon attacks with Muddy Water, which causes Excadrill's Focus Blast to fail and deals a heavy blow on him. Cynthia makes it clear that on this stage, both of them are just Pokémon Trainers aiming for the top, and she intends to defeat Iris to test her own potential and move forward. Iris has Excadrill use Drill Run, but Gastrodon's Acid Armor boosts its Defense so that the blow barely fazes it before it uses rain-boosted Muddy Water again. Caught in the middle of the vicious attack, Excadrill's situation is looking dire, so Iris decides to put all of her faith in one attack and orders a Horn Drill. The move connects, dealing a one-hit knockout and defeating Gastrodon just as the rain fades away. Further away, Team Rocket tries to take credit of Iris's success by saying it's her training with them that made her strong.

After recalling Gastrodon, Cynthia calls out Milotic as her second Pokémon. Iris orders a Drill Run, but Milotic effortlessly avoids it and strikes back with Hydro Pump, defeating Excadrill. For her own second Pokémon, Iris chooses Dragonite, whom Cynthia is happy to see again. Dragonite connects with a Thunder Punch to deal super effective damage. Milotic endures the hit and retaliates with Disarming Voice, a Fairy move that causes Dragonite to stumble. While Dragonite is disoriented, Milotic wraps its body around him and uses Iron Head, defeating him and leaving Iris with just one Pokémon. For her final Pokémon, Iris calls out her ace and the Pokémon that won her her Champion title, Haxorus. Milotic uses Disarming Voice again, but Haxorus breaks it apart with Psycho Cut. A Hydro Pump from Milotic, in turn, is countered by a Breaking Swipe, which also makes contact with Milotic itself, sending it flying and taking it out of the fight.

Unconcerned, Cynthia calls forth her own ace and the Pokémon that has won countless battles, Garchomp. She orders a Draco Meteor, which Iris responds to by ordering an Outrage. Powered by his attack, Haxorus cleaves his way through the meteor shower and exchanges some blows with Garchomp before the side effect of Outrage leaves him confused. Iris is prepared for this, however, and Haxorus quickly breaks out of the confusion by hitting his head on the ground. Impressed by Iris's performance, Cynthia pulls out a lipstick and reveals a Key Stone embedded in it, Mega Evolving her partner. In the locker room, Alain acknowledges that, despite this power-up, Haxorus also has a lot of potential, so the match could still go either way.

Mega Garchomp attacks with Dragon Claw, which Haxorus meets with a series of Psycho Cuts. Using this strategy, Iris has Garchomp lured into close-range combat, before unleashing a point-blank Dragon Pulse at her foe, scoring a direct hit. Feeling that the next hit will decide the match, Iris communicates with Haxorus on a spiritual level and asks him to put everything into his next attack. Cynthia, likewise, decides to finish the match with her next attack and orders a Draco Meteor. As the meteors start raining down again, Haxorus fires a Dragon Pulse, which splits up and starts taking down the falling rocks. Unfortunately, the meteors are too large in numbers, and many of them still hit the ground, creating a big cloud of dust. When the cloud clears, both Dragon Pokémon stare down at each other, until Haxorus falls down in defeat. Dan rules Haxorus, unable to battle and declares Cynthia the winner. Both Trainers thank their respective partners and each other for an unforgettable battle. While Cynthia's advancement into the semifinals is made official, Ash silently leaves his seat. Lincoln and Mirabel follow.

Backstage, Ash meets Iris as she walks down the corridor. Iris tries to keep a calm facade and compliment Cynthia's skills, but ends up bursting into tears as Lincoln and Mirabel arrive by Ash's side. After crying for a moment, Iris wipes the tears from her eyes and says she'll join Lincoln and Mirabel in rooting for Ash, with both being happy to accept her company. Thanking his friends for their support, Ash heads to the battlefield to start his match against Steven, wearing his Z-Power Ring, Dynamax Band, and Mega Glove.

Chapter Text

All of Wyndon Stadium waits with anticipation as the fourth and final match of the World Coronation Series Masters Tournament, featuring Hoenn Champion Steven and Ash, the first Champion of Alola, prepares to begin. In the audience, Team Rocket, still broadcasting the events of the tournament, are excited to see Ash battle, though Jessie believes Ash has no chance of victory against Steven. Meanwhile, Lincoln and Mirabel has Goh and Hop move over so that Iris, having desired to feel the excitement of the stadium in person like Ash had for the previous battles, can join them in the bleachers. Hop is shocked to meet the Unova Champion in person, while Iris is excited to meet Leon's younger brother and affectionately cuddles up to Wooloo.

Dan recites the rules once more: the matches in the first round are three-on-three battles with no restrictions on time or exchanges. In addition, each Trainer is allowed only one use of either Dynamax, Z-Moves, or Mega Evolution. Hop is surprised to see that Ash has the ability to use all three. Ash declares to Steven that he will be the one to advance to the semi-finals. Steven, eyeing Ash's Dynamax Band, Z-Power Ring and Key Stone, notes Ash's confidence despite the status and strength of the former. At Dan's signal, both Trainers call out their first Pokémon. Steven chooses to lead with his ace, his Shiny Metagross, while Ash selects Dracovish. Backstage, Leon looks forward to seeing what Ash, the "rookie Champion", has to show.

At Dan's signal, the battle begins. Ash calls for Water Gun, but Metagross uses Agility to dodge and move in close. Ash then calls for Fishious Rend while Steven orders a Psychic. Fishious Rend manages to subdue Psychic and cause Metagross damage, but Dracovish is still sent flying back by the attack. Steven mutters that Ash predicted his strategy. In the audience, Goh notes that Fishious Rend's power increases if the attack goes first, while Iris adds that the move is boosted further by Dracovish's Ability Strong Jaw. Internally, Ash thanks Paul for showing him Metagross's strategy of approaching with Agility and then attacking with Psychic. Steven recalls Metagross in favor of Aggron. Steven notes that while he is the strongest Trainer in Hoenn, that alone is not enough for him, adding that he entered the World Coronation Series to become the world's strongest Trainer. Backstage, Diantha notes that she has never seen Steven so fired up before. Ash responds that it is the same for him, and that he will win the tournament for every person and Pokémon who has cheered them on to this point. Ash calls for Dragon Rush, but Aggron's Heavy Slam overpowers the attack and flings Dracovish back. Though Dracovish gets back on its feet and seems able to continue, it suddenly collapses and is ruled unable to battle by Dan. Iris is sad that Dracovish lost, while Ash recalls and thanks it for its effort. For his second Pokemon, he selects Gengar, who immediately uses Will-O-Wisp to burn Aggron, causing it to stumble. Undeterred, Steven has Aggron use Smart Strike, which sends Gengar flying, but Aggron's burn saps more of its strength. Aggron uses Rock Tomb in an attempt to trap Gengar, but the latter uses Dazzling Gleam to easily free itself and hit Aggron. Once again Aggron takes damage from its burn and collapses to the ground, ruled unable to battle by Dan. At Professor Oak's Laboratory, all of Ash's Pokémon, especially his Fire-types, cheer in happiness.

Steven recalls and thanks Aggron, then sends out Cradily as his third Pokémon. Cradily uses Power Whip, surrounding Gengar with its many tentacles and striking it multiple times. The tentacles then wrap around Gengar, who struggles to break free. Steven then calls for Ingrain, which Alain notes will prevent Cradily from being recalled. Diantha takes this as a sign that Steven intends to defeat Gengar here and now. Ash orders a Sludge Bomb, which scores a direct hit, however Ingrain slowly begins restoring Cradily's health. Steven then calls for Meteor Beam, the attack's intense light blinding Ash and Gengar. Ash realizes he can fight light with light and shouts for Gengar to use Dazzling Gleam, which blocks Meteor Beam and results in a massive explosion that damages both Pokémon but also frees Gengar. Steven compliments Ash's strategy, the two Trainers calling for Power Whip and Shadow Ball. Gengar avoids several tentacles and launches its attack, but Cradily bats it aside and batters Gengar with its attack, flinging it into the ground where it is ruled unable to battle. Recalling Gengar, Ash selects Pikachu, whom Steven calls Ash's greatest partner, for his final Pokémon. Knowing that Electric-type attacks are not very effective against Grass-types and Cradily still restoring health with Ingrain, plus Metagross waiting in the wings, Goh and Hop note that Ash needs to finish Cradily quickly. James and Meowth are excited to see Pikachu, and now Jessie is cheering for Ash as well, ordering Pikachu to not lose. Steven orders Cradily to use Rock Blast, but Pikachu's Quick Attack strikes first. Pikachu then leaps from one rock to another to gain height and wraps up Cradily's Power Whip with Electroweb, a manuever that leaves Leon impressed. With Cradily's tentacles out of the way, Pikachu lands a super-effective Iron Tail, taking Cradily out of the fight and leaving both sides with only one Pokémon left. Steven praises Ash's skill, remarking that every attack that the latter launches leave him surprised. Ash credits Gengar's efforts in assisting with Pikachu's victory.

Steven recalls Cradily and sends out Metagross once more. Immediately he grasps his Mega Stickpin and Mega Evolves Metagross. Ash calls for Thunderbolt, but Metagross effortlessly avoids the attack, as well as several follow-up Thunderbolts. Metagross uses Meteor Mash which smashes into Pikachu and causes big damage. Diantha notes that Mega Metagross is said to have far superior strategic and information process capabilities than its base form, enabling it to predict Pikachu's every action with incredible accuracy. Ash calls for Iron Tail, but Metagross easily dodges again and smashes Pikachu into the ground with Psychic, though Pikachu is still able to continue. Ash's grimace gives way to a smile as he tosses his hat to Pikachu as they begin to perform their Z-Move, much to the excitement and shock of the audience. Pikachu fires 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt, but Metagross dodges and prepares to finish Pikachu with Flash Cannon, but the lightning bolts suddenly change direction and block Metagross's attack, as well as striking the Iron Leg Pokémon and sending it plummeting to the ground. While Steven is in shock by the display, Pikachu strikes Metagross with Iron Tail, scoring the finishing blow on its opponent. Dan rules Metagross unable to battle and Ash the victor. With that, Ash advances to the semi-finals to battle Cynthia, who is excited at the prospect. In the audience, Goh, Lincoln, Mirabel and Iris dance with Grookey in celebration while Hop calls Ash and his Pokémon incredible. Team Rocket is likewise thrilled with the upset, Jessie even believing that Ash might win the entire tournament. Steven congratulates Ash, attributing the victory to the feelings Ash and his partners have for each other coming together to form an incredible power. With the battle over, the four trainers advancing to the semi-finals have been decided: Leon, Diantha, Cynthia, and Ash.

Outside the stadium,

Ash: It was so good seeing you all again

Lincoln: And it was so nice to meet you all!

Mirabel: Yeah

Steven: To you as well.

Alain: Nice to have examples from the multiverse

Iris: Mira, we really should meet up, just the two of us!

Mirabel: Sounds like fun!

Iris: Yeah!

Steven believes in Ash's ability to defeat Cynthia. Alain and Iris likewise tell Ash to win, which he promises to do. Ash says goodbye to the three, while inside the stadium, Leon looks down upon the battlefield impassively.

Chapter Text

Chloe visits the Eevee Evolution Lab, where Pinery does a medical check on Eevee and declares that she's in perfect health. She asks what Chloe and Eevee have been doing lately, and Chloe tells her how they took part in a Pokémon Contest and met Lana, another Trainer with an Eevee, who taught her that Eevee could stay unevolved. Pinery notes that they've met each of Eevee's evolved forms, but while Eevee was interested in all of her possible evolutions, she has been unable to choose any single option between them.

Back home, when her family is having dinner, Chloe asks her father why Pokémon evolve. Professor Cerise says that, taken to extreme, one could say there are just as many ways for a Pokémon to evolve as there are individual Pokémon, just like how every human is an individual. When the answer leaves Chloe even more uncertain, Professor Cerise suggests a family camp during the weekend. The whole family agrees to this. Come weekend, Professor Cerise and Chloe head off first, with Talia and Parker following behind once Parker's soccer club is over. Much to Yamper's disappointment, he's coming with Parker instead of Chloe. Chloe messages Goh telling him where she’ll be going.

Meanwhile at The hotel, The trio are now bored ever since the break of the World Coronation Series.

Ash: I’m so bored.

Lincoln: Same here

[Mirabel lets out a groan.]

Goh: C’mon guys, you’re acting like kids

Trio: We’ll act like kids if we want to.

[Goh receives Chloe’s message.]

Goh: Oh! Chloe’s doing something.

[The trio perk up.]

Trio: SHE IS?!

[The trio tackle Goh bombarding him with questions.]

Goh: Ok! Ok! She’s going camping!

Ash: Ooooo! That sounds fun!

Lincoln: We should join her!

Ash: But how do we find her?

Goh: Ash can use his phone to track hers!

Mirabel: Wait guys shouldn’t we let her be?

The trio look at each other

Trio: Nah!

Trio: Hi-ho! Hi-ho! And off to camp we go!

[The trio leave the hotel.]

Goh: What am I gonna do with those three?

Chapter Text

During the car ride, Professor Cerise says he wants to make a stop on the way to their destination, stopping by at a forest filled with wild Pokémon. Chloe suggests they should bring Ash and Goh here as well once they're done with the Masters Tournament and Project Mew, respectively, which Professor Cerise agrees is a good idea, before hearing something in the sky and it’s revealed to be the Multiverse trio riding Dragonite from Galar to Kanto, and they crash land, into a tree

Chloe: Ash? Lincoln? Mirabel? What are you doing here?

Mirabel: Goh said you were going camping-

Lincoln: And we wanted to tag along-

Ash: So I may have tracked your phone.

Professor Cerise: While I don’t approves of tracking her phone, I must admit, I’m impressed

Chloe: You guys can’t stay, this is family only

[The trio are saddened by this.]

Trio: Aw!

Processor Cerise: Now Chloe, I’m sure we have room for three more.

[The trio are happy to hear this.]

Trio: yay!

Lincoln: We were so bored in that lab!

Chloe: Ok, just try not to destroy anything ok?

Trio: OK!

Professor Cerise Shushes the trio and Chloe. They spot a Poliwag moving towards a nearby pond and decide to follow it, only to be given away when Eevee ends up sneezing along the way. Eevee and Pikachu continue chasing after Poliwag and end up falling into the pond, only to be fished out of the water by an old man with a fishing net. While Poliwag ends up evolving into Poliwhirl, Professor Cerise introduces the old man as Enoki, the caretaker of the forest, who used to take care of him a lot when he was a child, and still assists him in his research.

Chapter Text

At Enoki's house, Chloe and the Trio learn that this forest was made by people planting trees, so it's grown both in size and the amount of Pokémon living in it over many years. Even back then, though, the forest felt like a magical place to Cerise, who's now grown up to be a Pokémon Professor. Enoki suddenly remembers how Cerise had once rescued a Clefairy, which Cerise goes into more detail of. One day, he had found an injured Clefairy being attacked by a Beedrill, which he drove off. While Enoki bandaged Clefairy's leg, he told the young Cerise how Clefairy tend to live deep in the mountains, so this particular Clefairy was likely lost. Since then, Cerise visited Clefairy every day, and as soon as it could walk again, they went on walks together. He was also introduced to Clefairy's Metronome, which ended up turning into Thunder Wave and frizzing up his hair. Finally, the day came when Clefairy could finally return to the wild. Seeing how sad Cerise was of them having to part ways, Clefairy used Metronome again to produce a beautiful Petal Blizzard as a parting gift. Chloe sheds a few tears and hopes Clefairy is doing good. Professor Cerise is certain it is, and says it's time for them to head to the campsite.

[During the car ride Mirabel gets an idea.]

Mirabel: Hey Linc, you still have that guitar recording?

Lincoln: Shallow Lake?

Mirabel: Yeah, Play it.

Lincoln: Ok

Chloe: What?

Ash: Well where going to a camp, and we made a song about our own camp

Lincoln: If we ever make one and if it were to open

Mirabel: But this is the theme

[The theme begins to play.]

Mirabel: Welcome to the Shallow Lake of your dreams Where the days are full and nights are serene On the way back to your yurts, don't forget the lake is dirt If you fall in, no one will hear you scream

Ash: Ah!

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake, at Shallow Lake We dive right into every friendship that we make

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake, at Shallow LakeEach year we come from near and farTo sing our hearts out in a barn The stars of Shallow Lake.

Mirabel: One, two, three

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake

Ash & Lincoln: There is no lake!

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake

Ash & Lincoln: It's all a fake!

Mirabel: When ya eat the tacos, that's your first mistake

Ash & Lincoln: Big mistake!

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake

Ash & Lincoln: Shallow Lake!

Mirabel: At Shallow Lake

Mirabel: Don't go too far into the woods

Trio: or you'll be gone for good!

Trio: Under the stars of Shallow Lake

Ash: Shallow Lake!

Lincoln: Shallow Lake

Trio: Shallow Lake!

Ash: So what did you guys think

Professor Cerise: You three, that was amazing!

Chloe: It sure was something...

Ash: It sure was!

Chapter Text

At the campsite, Chloe and her father prepare a tent and some food in time before Talia, Parker, and Yamper arrive.

Parker: Chloe why is Ash here and who are the other two?

Lincoln: I’m Lincoln!

Mirabel: And I’m Mirabel!

Chloe: They snuck up on us.

After eating and having some fun together, the family and trio sits down to admire the full moon, when Eevee, Pikachu and Yamper suddenly hear something. Realizing what they're hearing, Professor Cerise leads his family and the trio up a nearby mountain, where the sounds of Clefairy become audible to them as well. He explains that sometimes, Clefairy gather under the full moon to go through an evolution ritual using Moon Stones. They eventually reach the edge of a mountain clearing, where a group of Clefairy is dancing around a cluster of Moon Stones. Just as Professor Cerise notices a Clefable amongst the Clefairy as well, a swarm of Golbat suddenly swoops down, threatening to disturb the ritual. Clefable downs some of them with Psychic, but more keep coming in. Eevee rushes in to help, mimicking Clefable's move with Copycat and using Psychic alongside it, while Pikachu uses thunderbolt, defeating the remaining Golbat.

With the disturbance dealt with, the evolution ritual can conclude without issue, allowing all the Clefairy to evolve into Clefable, who then leap towards the moon and seem to vanish into it. The first Clefable starts using Metronome, with Chloe's family and the trio joining in by wagging their fingers. The move ends up turning into Petal Blizzard, and while the family marvels at it, Clefable disappears like the others of its kind had. Chloe wonders if this Clefable was the same one her father had met when he was younger, which he's sure of is the case.

Back at the campsite, Chloe is still so fascinated by the evolution ritual that she's unable to sleep. His father and the trio join her and are happy to hear that she's now starting to understand what he had meant by saying there are as many ways to evolve as there are Pokémon. He's also more than happy about having had the chance to reunite with his childhood friend, now feeling even more motivated to make a world where Pokémon and people can always live happily together. Chloe declares that she wants to learn more about Pokémon evolution, and not just because of Eevee. Cerise encourages them to start by walking together and listen to her feelings whenever they're in a crossroad to choose her next path; after all, their paths are not just plentiful, but endless. Chloe smiles at her sleeping Eevee and promises that they'll always be there for each other.

Chapter Text

A new day dawns in Wyndon as The trio wakes up at the Rose of the Rondelands hotel to find Goh having stayed up all night to study the data that Project Mew had sent for him so he can be ready for the next mission as soon as it happens. Ash decides to do some last-minute training with his team before the Masters Tournament semifinals begin, but as soon as he calls for everyone to stop and compliments them, Dragonite tackles him in a very affectionate hug, causing both of them to slide through some bushes and end up right next to Cynthia and her Garchomp, who are also doing some last-minute preparations. As Goh, Mirabel, Lincoln and the rest of Ash's Pokémon join them, Cynthia demonstrates her usual pre-battle routine by having Garchomp fly around for a bit, giving her a back massage, and then having her fly around some more, with her going even faster now.

The group is then approached by a young boy who introduces himself as Vic, along with his little sister Toria. Both of them are huge fans of the Ash, Cynthia, and Leon, with Vic declaring that he wants to be able to use a move like Ash's Pikachu's 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt, choose Grookey as his starter Pokémon, and evolve it into a Rillaboom that can Gigantamax, just like Leon's Rillaboom. When Vic asks what Cynthia's first Pokémon was, Ash realizes he's never asked about it. Cynthia responds that Garchomp was her first partner, raised from a Gible that she hatched from an Egg as a child. This reminds Ash of how his Lucario also hatched from an Egg. Said Egg was very mysterious, as it refused to hatch and went from region to region, until Ash finally felt the Egg's Aura calling out to him, and it had hatched with him. Cynthia reveals that she had also heard of this mysterious Egg and figures it must've been fate for it to have wound up with Ash.

Mirabel: It’s like a miracle

Lincoln: Nah, I think fate is better

Mirabel: Eh, potato, tomato

Lincoln: You mean-

Mirabel: No, I said what I said.

Ash: Can we please get back to what this was about?

Vic thanks Ash and Cynthia for their stories and calls out to Toria, but before they can leave together, she gets distracted by a Gossifleur floating by and excitedly runs after it, forcing Vic to follow. Ash, Goh, Mirabel, Lincoln and Cynthia head for the Wyndon Stadium to watch the first semifinals match. No sooner had they arrived in front of the stadium and seen Leon entering the field from a giant screen, however, that they heard Vic nearby, having lost sight of Toria. The group agrees to help find her and follows Vic just as the first semifinals match gets underway.

The group ends up finding Toria by following the sound of a Gossifleur singing, finding her watching said Gossifleur from a bush. The Gossifleur ends up evolving into Eldegoss and flying away to scatter its seeds around Galar. Vic and Toria wave good-bye to it, before Vic suddenly remembers Leon's battle. The group rushes back to the stadium, where they're greeted by the shocking information that Diantha has already lost four Pokémon, while Leon has only lost one. Diantha's fifth Pokémon, Goodra, lands a super effective Fire Blast on Leon's Rillaboom, engulfing it in a giant fireball just as the group enters the stands. To Diantha's shock, Rillaboom manages to repel the flames by beating its drum, before using Acrobatics, defeating Goodra and leaving Diantha with just one Pokémon against Leon's five. While Ash muses how he's never seen Diantha being backed into a corner like this and Diantha sends out Gardevoir as her final Pokémon, Team Rocket gives a recap of the battle so far for the viewers of their broadcast, revealing that Rillaboom alone has taken down four of Diantha's Pokémon. While James and Meowth remained cheerful, Jessie stopped caring about the battle the instant Diantha's Gourgeist was defeated.

Diantha's Gardevoir attack with Shadow Ball. While Rillaboom manages to avoid the attack, its Knock Off is, in turn, dodged by Gardevoir, who then uses Psychic to lift Rillaboom into the air and then slam it back down, finally taking the Drummer Pokémon out of action. Leon responds to this knockout by sending out Charizard. Seeing Leon's ace has entered the battle, Diantha immediately Mega Evolves Gardevoir, while Leon Gigantamaxes Charizard. Gardevoir attacks with a powerful Thunderbolt, which actually causes the giant Pokémon to stumble backwards. Leon launches his own attack in the form of Charizard's signature G-Max Wildfire, which engulfs Mega Gardevoir in a flaming vortex. In a maneuver that catches Leon off-guard, Gardevoir uses Psychic to redirect Charizard's G-Max Move right back at it, forcing him to use Max Airstream to counter it. Fueled by Diantha's unrelenting desire to never give up, Mega Gardevoir keeps pushing, causing G-Max Wildfire, Max Airstream, and Psychic to fuse together into a single devastating move. However, before it can make contact, Leon orders another G-Max Wildfire, which busts through the combination attack and strikes Gardevoir head-on. When the flames die down, Gardevoir collapses and is judged unable to battle, meaning that Leon has won and will be advancing to the finals.

In the stands, the group is excited by the battle they just witnessed, with Vic and Toria asking Ash and Cynthia to have a cool battle like this one with them once they become Pokémon Trainers, which they happily accept. After watching Leon and Diantha shake hands, Cynthia turns to look at Ash and Pikachu, whose faces are filled with determination as they prepare themselves to face Cynthia in their own semifinals match.

Mirabel pats Ash on the shoulder

Mirabel: Good luck man.

Lincoln: We think you’ll need it.

Ash: Thanks?

Chapter Text

The second semi finals Full Battle of the Pokémon World Coronation Series Masters Tournament is about to get underway to decide who will get to face Monarch Leon in the finals. At one end of the stadium, Goh, Lincoln and Mirabel are giving Ash words of encouragement, while at the other end, Diantha is doing the same with Cynthia, believing she could be the one to end Leon's unbroken winning streak. To the surprise of the famous actress, Cynthia reveals to her that she's intending to retire from battling once the tournament has ended.

The first Champion of Alola and the world-famous Sinnoh Champion both enter the battlefield. As per usual, Dan explains the rules: the match is a six-on-six Full Battle, with no limits to how many times each Trainer is allowed to change their Pokémon, and each of them may only use one of either Dynamax, Mega Evolution, or Z-Moves per battle. While the announcer wonders if they will use the same cards they did in the quarterfinals, the two Champions send out their first Pokémon. Ash's choice is his Dragonite, while Cynthia unexpectedly leads with the Forbidden Pokémon Spiritomb. As the signal to start the match is given, Ash orders a Draco Meteor as his first move, only for Dragonite to be struck back by Spiritomb's Sucker Punch. After getting back on its feet, the Dragon Pokémon completes the use of Draco Meteor, only for Spiritomb to just shrug it off and laugh mockingly. Ash tries to follow up with a Dragon Claw, but ends up getting stopped in his tracks by Hypnosis, causing Dragonite to fall asleep. Spiritomb follows this up by using Dream Eater multiple times in a row, gradually draining away Dragonite's energy. Ash's pleas for his Pokémon to wake up prove fruitless, with the end result of Dragonite getting defeated in its sleep without managing to deal any real damage to Cynthia.

While Ash recalls Dragonite and prepares to send out his next Pokémon, Cynthia abruptly recalls Spiritomb as well. Both Trainers' second Pokémon, Gengar and Roserade, enter the field simultaneously. Roserade's Bullet Seed fails to do much damage due to being not very effective, while Roserade unflinchingly takes a Shadow Ball. The next exchange of moves comes in the form of a Will-O-Wisp and a Leaf Storm, with both attacks striking their mark. With Roserade now suffering from a burn, Cynthia recalls it and returns Spiritomb to the battlefield. Yet again, another exchange of attacks is made, this time between a Dazzling Gleam and a Sucker Punch. While both sides suffer super effective damage and get back up, unlike Spiritomb, Gengar ends up falling back down and fainting, only increasing Cynthia's lead.

Once more, Ash recalling his fainted partner is accompanied by Cynthia withdrawing Spiritomb, this time in favor of Togekiss. Just as Cynthia predicted, Ash responds by calling forth his loyal and strongest partner, Pikachu, in the hopes of turning things around. Pikachu's series of Thunderbolts fails to make contact with the swiftly moving Flying type, who attacks back with Air Slash. When Togekiss follows up with Zen Headbutt, Ash finds Pikachu flinching and unable to prevent himself from being hit. Backstage, Diantha and Leon realize that Togekiss's Ability, Serene Grace, helped to make this happen. Making yet another switch, Cynthia sends out her Gastrodon to gain type advantage over Pikachu. Aiming to take out Pikachu here and now, she orders an Earth Power. Pikachu evades the attack by jumping high into the air using the slabs of earth flung up by it, once again following Cynthia's prediction. When Pikachu starts using Iron Tail next, Cynthia has Gastrodon use Stone Edge. This time, though, things are going according to Ash's plan, as, instead of directly attacking Gastrodon, the Iron Tail slices off the tops of some of the stone pillars created by Stone Edge and sends them flying at Gastrodon. While Gastrodon manages to catch the rocks and absorb the impact, this leaves it immobilized, allowing Pikachu to use Quick Attack to smash through the rocks and into Gastrodon, finally giving Ash a knockout of his own.

Cynthia admires Ash's skill to find an opportunity in the midst of a crisis and Pikachu's ability to exploit it as she recalls her fainted Pokémon. Spiritomb then rejoins the battle yet again, though now, Ash feels ready for it and tells Pikachu to use Thunderbolt while spinning. The resulting vortex of electricity not only successfully repels Spiritomb's Hypnosis, but also strikes it at the same time. Ash identifies the strategy as Counter Shield, a tactic that he came up with while he was traveling through Sinnoh and which Cynthia recognizes from the Sinnoh League. Ash assures Cynthia that he's grown much stronger since then and has Pikachu ensnare Spiritomb in an Electroweb, successfully avoiding a Sucker Punch in the process. As Pikachu goes for a finishing Iron Tail, Spiritomb also does something moments before Pikachu's move hits. The Forbidden Pokémon retreats into its Odd Keystone and the audience cheers, but while Dan inspects Spiritomb, a dark shadow suddenly emerges from the keystone and envelops Pikachu. Spiritomb's last-second move had been Destiny Bond, whose effect has now activated. Pikachu is suddenly drained of all his remaining strength, causing him to faint alongside Spiritomb. With this double-knockout, Ash's ability to use 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt has been eliminated, giving him a severe handicap as Cynthia continues to stay in control of the battle.

Lincoln: Cmon Ash! Don’t give up!

Mirabel: Beat her a-

Chapter Text

The Masters Tournament semifinals battle between Ash and Cynthia continues, with the former having three Pokémon remaining and the latter having four. Ash's fourth Pokémon is Dracovish, and Cynthia sends out her fifth Pokémon, Garchomp, causing Ash to wonder if she will Mega Evolve. Dracovish goes in for an Ice Fang, but Garchomp dodges and lands a Dragon Claw, dealing super effective damage on Dracovish. She then uses Stealth Rock, before Cynthia substitutes her for Roserade, whose burn from Gengar's earlier Will-O-Wisp has been healed thanks to its Ability, Natural Cure. Despite this, Dracovish is able to power through Roserade's Poison Jab and get off a Fishious Rend, though it ends up getting poisoned. However, it manages to persevere and power through Roserade's Leaf Storm with a Dragon Rush, which is enough to knock Roserade out.

Ash wants to recall Dracovish at this point due to the damage it is taking from poison, but it insists on staying in the battle. Cynthia then sends out her sixth Pokémon, Milotic, whom Dracovish charges toward with Dragon Rush. However, Milotic uses Disarming Voice to keep Dracovish at bay, before employing the same tactic it used against Iris's Dragonite and coiling around Dracovish to use a close-range Iron Head. Dracovish, however, strikes back with Fishious Rend, and the attacks collide to create a big explosion. Although Milotic has taken visible damage, Dracovish ends up going down.

Ash recalls Dracovish and sends out Sirfetch'd, who immediately takes damage from Garchomp's Stealth Rock. Ash gets an idea and has Sirfetch'd use Brutal Swing to eliminate the Stealth Rock, greatly impressing Goh, Hop, and Cynthia. Milotic attacks with a Hydro Pump, but Sirfetch'd dodges and withstands its Iron Head, before getting off a flurry of Fury Cutters. Milotic's next attack is Disarming Voice, but Sirfetch'd manages to endure it and blitzes Milotic with Meteor Assault, taking it down.

Cynthia recalls Milotic and commends Ash on his cleverness at getting rid of the Stealth Rock, before sending Garchomp back out, and Ash again predicts that she may Mega Evolve. Garchomp uses Scale Shot, which Sirfetch'd manages to fight it off with Fury Cutter, before clashing against Garchomp's Dragon Claw. Sirfetch'd ends up getting knocked back, but is able to avert a second Dragon Claw by using Detect. Sirfetch'd then goes in for a Meteor Assault, and Garchomp uses Draco Meteor in response, both of which successfully land. Both Pokémon take a good amount of damage and enter a standoff, but Garchomp is able to remain conscious despite stumbling, while Sirfetch'd faints standing up.

Ash recalls Sirfetch'd as Cynthia calls Garchomp back. Ash sends out his final Pokémon, Lucario, and Cynthia sends Togekiss back out. Lucario starts off with Bullet Punch, and Togekiss tries to stop it in its track with Air Slash, but Lucario is able to push through it and land Bullet Punch on Togekiss, dealing super effective damage. However, it is still standing, and Lucario charges an Aura Sphere. However, Togekiss beats it to the punch with another Air Slash, not only causing it a good amount of damage, but also cancelling out Lucario's Aura Sphere. Togekiss uses yet another Air Slash, but Ash has Lucario use Bullet Punch to neutralize the attack. After a brief moment of silence, Cynthia surprises the entire Wyndon Stadium by recalling Togekiss and Dynamaxing it, revealing that she has no intention of Mega Evolving Garchomp. Ash then readies his Key Stone, and Lucario prepares to take on Dynamax Togekiss as the battle enters its climax.

Lincoln: He’s in the endgame now.

Mirabel: That’s not your line.

Chapter Text

The second Masters Tournament semifinal battle of the World Coronation Series between Ash and Cynthia continues, with the former having just Lucario left to face Cynthia's Togekiss and Garchomp. Faced with the surprise turn of Cynthia Dynamaxing Togekiss rather than Mega Evolving Garchomp, Ash uses his Key Stone to Mega Evolve Lucario. Lucario attacks with Aura Sphere while Togekiss counters with Max Airstream. Lucario leaps into the cyclone to continue its attack, but the fierce winds blast it out, while Togekiss smothers the Aura Sphere with its body. Furthermore, Max Airstream's effect increases Togekiss's Speed. Refusing to give in, Ash calls for Bullet Punch while Cynthia counters with Max Airstream once more. This time, however, Lucario leaps over the cyclone and begins pummeling Togekiss, dealing super effective damage. The onslaught causes Togekiss to crash into the ground, but to everyone's shock it manages to get back up, its speed increasing once again. Cynthia orders a third Max Airstream, which meets Aura Sphere as it charges up. Though Lucario resists the attack, it is clearly taking lots of damage. However, Ash and Lucario draw their aura together to fight back, while all the way in Kalos, Greninja feels the surge of power occur as "G-Max Aura Sphere" pushes forward and finally breaks through to score a direct hit on the Jubilee Pokémon, much to Cynthia's shock and awe. Togekiss reverts to its normal size and collapses to the ground, but it amazingly gets up once more, its speed bolstered a third time. Cynthia expresses her excitement over the battle and continues, Togekiss flying around at high speeds and avoiding Lucario's Bullet Punch attempts. When Cynthia calls for Sky Attack, Ash counters with Double Team to avoid the attack, but Togekiss destroys the copies before it can be struck by Aura Sphere. However, it fails to overpower Bullet Punch and is repelled, finally being declared unable to battle. Cynthia recalls and thanks Togekiss, while Ash praises Lucario.

With only one Pokémon left for both participants, Cynthia calls upon Garchomp one final time, marking the start of the battle's climax. Backstage, Diantha and Leon compare the damage both Pokémon have received in their respective battles, believing the battle is a toss-up. Seeing Ash and Lucario's powerful connection, Cynthia and Garchomp think back to their past travels together over their many years: from playing together as children, to fishing up a Feebas, Garchomp's evolutionary road from Gible, viewing the mural at Amity Square, and their countless battles as partners on their shared road to the present. Cynthia declares they will advance to battle Leon and shouts for Scale Shot. Lucario counters with Bullet Punch and then launches an Aura Sphere, resulting in a large explosion that damages both Pokémon. Cynthia's excitement peaks as she declares how she has longed for a battle this intense. Lucario and Garchomp begin trading blows with Bullet Punch and Dragon Claw, turning the battle into an all-out slugfest. Both Pokémon are repelled and clearly running on empty. When Lucario drops to one knee, Cynthia takes her chance and orders Dragon Claw once more, but Lucario musters the strength to counter with Reversal. Both attacks score devastating blows and the two Pokémon hit the dirt, seemingly unable to continue. After several agonizing moments of silence, Lucario slowly rises to its feet, while Garchomp is ruled unable to battle and Ash the winner of the match.

Ash stands stupefied as cheers shower down on him. Only after Pikachu begins jumping for joy does he realize his victory, rushing forth and hugging Lucario. In the stands, Goh, Mirabel, Lincoln and Hop cheer for Ash's victory, as do Team Rocket, who are overcome with emotion that their "twerp" toppled Sinnoh's Champion. In Pallet Town, Ash's Pokémon at Oak's lab rejoice, while Professor Oak fights off tears. Meanwhile, Leon is fired up and can't hold down his excitement over facing Ash in the finals. Cynthia thanks Garchomp for her efforts. The Mach Pokémon accepts Lucario's paw and rises to her feet, while Cynthia congratulates Ash over his triumph. She praises his unparalleled connection with all of his Pokémon, admitting that she still has much to learn, and adds that she hopes to battle him again in the future. Meanwhile, the announcer reveals that the matchup of Ash versus Leon in the finals will be another six-on-six Full Battle to decide the title of Monarch.

Diantha and Cynthia reconverge, the latter apologizing for failing to win. Cynthia admits that battling provides her with a thrill that can't be surpassed, choosing to continue on with her career as a Pokémon Trainer, rather than retiring like she previously planned, while still moving forward with her fields of research, much to Diantha's happiness. Outside, Ash summons his team to thank them for their victory. However, he adds that now that they have reached the finals and their goal of battling Leon, they can't back down and will emerge victorious. As the team cheers, they begin preparing to face their strongest opponent ever.

Back outside the stadium, The trio and go are chatting

Lincoln: You did so well!

Mirabel: We are so in the endgame!

Lincoln: So, when I say it it’s bad, but when you say it-

Ash: Actually I’m in the endgame since, y’know i’m the one battling

[Lincoln and Mirabel make murmurs of agreement.]

Goh: Well that’s not gonna be for a while, so now let's explore Galar!

Chapter Text

On the day before Ash and Leon's battle in the finals of the Masters Eight Tournament, Ash, Mirabel, Lincoln and Goh arrive at Wyndon Stadium to be greeted by Professor Magnolia, Sonia, and Leon.

Ash: Oh hey, um why were we called here?

Lincoln: Yeah

Mirabel: I didn’t think I'd actually be in the stadium.

Leon responds by pulling out a Poké Ball and sending out Eternatus, catching Ash and Goh completely by surprise and leaving Lincoln and Mirabel confused

Goh: I gave Eternatus to Professor Magnolia after it was stopped.

Sonia; Ever since Eternatus is closely linked to the Galar particles that enable Dynamaxing, they hoped for a coexistence between it and the people of Galar. Hence why Leon has been working on getting Eternatus used to human contact, which, while far from easy at first, has clearly yielded results.

Seeing that Eternatus has gotten used to being with Leon, Goh surprises everyone by asking Leon to take care of it, while hoping to one day also become a Trainer accepted by Eternatus. Leon, while taken aback at first, accepts Goh's request.

After Leon has left, promising not to get lost on his way to the battle the next day

Goh: So Ash, are you gonna do some training?

Ash: Nah, I’m gonna take it easy today

Lincoln: You deserve it!

Mirabel: No kidding!

Just when he considers getting something to eat, a familiar scent of scones reaches his nose, even drawing Cinderace out of its Poké Ball. Arriving at the scone stall, Goh and Cinderace remember how this was where they first met. They greet the man at the stall and introduce the evolved Cinderace to him, only to be interrupted when they notice three Galarian Zigzagoon trying to steal a woman's bag of scones. Her food is, however, saved by the trio of Nickit that Cinderace used to live with. As thanks for their work, the people around them reward the Nickit with a scone and some Berries, which they share with the Zigzagoon, leaving all sides happy. The scone man explains that the Nickit have stopped stealing food and instead now work on helping people and punishing mean Pokémon, making them popular amongst the locals. Cinderace jumps in front of the three Nickit, who quickly recognize it and jump into its arms in a happy reunion of friends.

Mirabel: aw, so precious

Lincoln: Nice, friends reuniting.

Meanwhile, the three Zigzagoon are cornered by a pair of Galarian Meowth and their boss, a Perrserker, who steal their food from them. Team Rocket, witnessing this, decides to make Perrserker their underling and approaches it while making this intention clear.

Back at the scone stall, while watching Cinderace and the Nickit play together, Goh reminisces how many things started for him right here. After his childhood encounter with Mew, he had dreamed of making Mew his first Pokémon, but after he met Scorbunny and made it his first partner instead, his new dream of catching every Pokémon on his way to Mew was born. The Galarian Zigzagoon suddenly return to them in a panic, followed by the Galarian Meowth and Perrserker stealing people's bags before running away, pursued by the Nickit trio. Multiverse trio and Goh also follow, but end up losing them in the alleyways. The Nickit seemingly corner Perrserker's group, only to be caught in one of Team Rocket's net traps.

Chapter Text

While trying to find the Nickit, The Trio and Goh end up walking past the fountain where Goh had caught Sobble. This gives him an idea, and he calls out Inteleon to help them finding the Nickit. Using its infrared vision, Inteleon quickly finds the trail and leads Ash and Goh to an alleyway, where Team Rocket's plan to make Perrserker their underling has been flipped upside down, with them now acting as its underlings and flattering it in the hopes of success. Cinderace quickly frees the Nickit, and the Rocket trio decides to push their plans for stealing Ash's Pokémon from tomorrow to now, calling down the Rocket Prize Master, which gives them a Hattrem and a Morgrem. Ash is about to join the fight, but Goh requests that he leave the fight to him and the Nickit trio. Team Rocket laughs at this and uses the Galarian Meowth's coins to vend four additional Pokémon from the vending machine: Stonjourner, Dubwool, Arrokuda, and Cramorant.

Lincoln: That’s a lot of pokemon!

Mirabel: I hope Ash and Goh can fight back!

With the Nickit trio taking on Perrserker's group and Goh's Cinderace, Inteleon, and Grookey taking on Team Rocket's Pokémon, the fight begins. While the Nickit confuse Perrserker's gang by running circles around them, Cinderace and Inteleon get thrown off by Cramorant firing Arrokuda at them as a projectile, leading to them taking some hits. To stop Cramorant, Goh has Grookey jump on it and pound it with its stick. Simultaneously, the Nickit suddenly all evolve into Thievul, who start overpowering Perrserker and Meowth with direct attacks. This culminates with Perrserker's claws getting broken and it and its underlings getting defeated. The fight with Team Rocket is momentarily paused in shock as Cramorant accidentally swallows Arrokuda, but one by one, Team Rocket's rental Pokémon are taken down, with Cramorant spitting Arrokuda back out before going down. In desperation, Team Rocket attempts to vend more Pokémon using Perrserker's coin, only to find it too big to fit into the coin slot. The machine is quickly snatched away by the Thievul trio, who then proceed to help Cinderace in sending the Rocket trio blasting off for the first time in a long while, with the vending machine also scurrying off in their wake on its robotic legs.

Chapter Text

The group returns to the scone stall, where the scone man congratulates the Thievul on their evolution with a big pile of scones, which they share with the trio of Zigzagoon and Perrserker's gang. After eating their fill, Ash and Goh head toward the hotel while looking forward to tomorrow's battle. Goh's Rotom Phone suddenly receives a message, which turns out to be an urgent summons from Project Mew, meaning that Goh unfortunately cannot be there to see the match. Ash is fine with this, and the two friends share a fist bump while telling each other to achieve their dreams and promising to smile when they meet again.

Lincoln: Cya around Goh

Mirabel: It was good to see you again

Goh: You two as well, bye!

Goh walks off

Ash: Well guys let’s get some sleep, we have a big day tomorrow

Mirabel: Who’s we?

Lincoln: Mira and I aren’t the ones fighting

Ash: Ok ok cmon lets go.

Chapter Text

Following an urgent summons by Project Mew, Goh has arrived in Slateport City in Hoenn, where he is quickly reunited with his fellow Chasers Horace and Gary.

Gary: Goh, I understand that you must feel disappointed for missing the finals of the Masters Eight Tournament.

Goh: Don’t worry I’m fine he and I promised to smile the next time we meet.

The three move to join Professor Amaranth, Danika, and Quillon at Project Mew's mobile laboratory

Goh: Good Luck Ash

Ash: Good Luck Goh.

Ash enters the Wyndon Stadium.

In his dressing room, he gives a pep talk to his team to get them pumped up, only to be interrupted by the unexpected appearance of Lincoln, Mirabel, Dawn and Chloe.

Ash: Dawn? Chloe? What are you two doing here?

Chloe: We wanted to cheer you on in person

Dawn: Ash, you did tell me our friends were visiting!

Lincoln: It’s us, we're the friends!

Mirabel: And we’re proud

In his own dressing room, Leon muses how this occasion reminds him of his first-ever battle against Sonia as a child.

Chapter Text

The entire stadium is filled with excitement as the finals are about to begin, with Dawn's Piplup even donning the cheerleader outfit he used while cheering for Ash during his Sinnoh travels. Eager to join in, Chloe's Eevee also starts waving a pom-pom, which Chloe and Mirabel find cute.

Finally, the two finalists enter the field: Ash, the first Champion of Alola and a native of Kanto, who defeated Hoenn Champion Steven Stone in the quarterfinals and Sinnoh Champion Cynthia in the semifinals. His opponent is none other than the reigning Monarch and the undefeated Galar Champion, Leon. The cheering Ash gets is enough to make Team Rocket give up on their broadcast and focus on cheering for the twerp as well. In the stands, Hop is joined by Sonia to cheer for Leon.

Ash and Leon are both feeling excited about finally getting to face each other in a serious battle. As usual, Dan starts explaining the rules, declaring the match to be a six-on-six Full Battle with no time limit or switching restrictions. However, his usual explanation of only one of either Mega Evolution, Z-Moves, or Dynamax being allowed per Trainer is interrupted by Leon, who wants to see Ash at his full power in this climactic battle and urges him to use all three of them so he can face and beat all of them with his own full power. The entire stadium unanimously agrees to this, and, after a brief discussion with the World Coronation Series management, Dan officiates this exception of the usual rules, which Ash also approves.

With this established, Ash and Leon send out their first Pokémon, Ash leading with Pikachu and Leon starting off with Cinderace. At Dan's starting signal, both Pokémon launch their first moves. Cinderace's Scorching Sands outspeeds Pikachu's Thunderbolt and deals super effective damage, though Pikachu's attack still goes off and scores a hit. To Ash's shock, however, Cinderace shrugs off the hit without as much as a hint of damage. Leon reveals that his Cinderace has the Libero Ability, which changes its type to match the type of the move it uses, meaning that, at the moment, Cinderace is a Ground type. Seeing that Pikachu is at a clear type disadvantage now, Ash recalls his buddy while Leon does the same with Cinderace.

For their respective second Pokémon, Ash and Leon choose Gengar and Inteleon, making Ash feel like he's battling Goh's partners. Inteleon outspeeds Gengar's Shadow Ball with Snipe Shot, before proceeding to swat the attack apart with its tail and prepare a Dark Pulse. While Gengar manages to avoid the attack by hiding in its own shadow, Leon remains unfaltering and has Inteleon use Aqua Jet while spinning in place, creating a spiral of water. Ash and Dawn both recognize this tactic as Counter Shield, which Ash used against Cynthia in the semifinals and impressed Leon enough for him to copy it. With Ash's own tactic being turned against him, Gengar is in a dire strait, but eventually, it manages to break free and uses Will-O-Wisp, evaporating the water and covering the field in a cloud of steam. While Inteleon is momentarily blinded, Ash recalls Gengar and Gigantamaxes it just as the mist fades away. What follows is a clash between Gengar's G-Max Terror and Inteleon's dual-wielding Snipe Shot, with both sides succeeding in hitting the other. Due to G-Max Terror's effect, Inteleon becomes unable to switch out, though Hop remains confident. The next exchange of attacks comes in the form of a Max Ooze from Gengar and a dual-wielding Dark Pulse from Inteleon. While Inteleon does its best to avoid the Max Move and succeeds in landing a critical hit Dark Pulse in the middle of Gengar's mouth, it still ends up being hit, while Gengar returns to normal size as a result of the critical hit. Examining Inteleon, Dan declares it unable to battle, giving Ash the first knockout of the finals and sparking celebration both in the crowd and amongst Ash's Pokémon at Professor Oak's Laboratory.

Recalling Inteleon, Leon promises to build up on the work it did and declares he'll catch up to Ash. In the crowd, Sonia notices how Leon is getting fired up. For his third Pokémon, Leon chooses Mr. Rime, while Ash sticks with Gengar and orders a Sludge Bomb. Leon counters with Freeze-Dry, which not only freezes and shatters the Sludge Bomb, but also freezes the battlefield and covers Gengar in frost. Gengar suddenly shivers, which also occurs with Mr. Rime, making Ash smirk. A failed attempt at using Freeze-Dry again confirms Leon's suspicion: Gengar's Cursed Body Ability has activated, temporarily disabling Freeze-Dry. However, the first Freeze-Dry was still enough to leave Gengar frozen, giving Leon the opportunity to have Mr. Rime set up a Psychic Terrain and attack his immobilized opponent with a powered-up Expanding Force, defeating Gengar and evening the playing field. While Ash recalls Gengar, Leon declares that he's dedicating this victory to Inteleon, reminding Ash that, in a Full Battle like this, the important thing is to build up damage on the opponent and achieve each victory as a team.

Mirabel: Boy that Mr Rime’s gonna give him a hard time!

Lincoln: Let’s just hope he doesn’t do any crimes!

Dawn: Does he have any grime?

Chloe: Really Dawn?

Dawn: Oh Cmon, it's fun!

Mirabel: Yeah!

Lincoln: You should join!

Chloe: No thanks,

Dawn, Mirabel & Lincoln: Please!!!

Chloe: Ok! Ok! Ok!

Chloe: I think he has a chime

Dawn, Mirabel & Lincoln: Yay!

Chapter Text

The finals of the Pokémon World Coronation Series Masters Eight Tournament are in full swing. Both participating Trainers, Ash and Leon, are down one Pokémon each, with Leon's current Pokémon, Mr. Rime, having set up an icy battlefield infused with Psychic Terrain to give it the advantage. For his third Pokémon, Ash calls out Sirfetch'd, confusing Leon as to why Ash would choose a Pokémon with a type disadvantage. Ash calls for Fury Cutter, and while Mr. Rime initially succeeds in defending itself with its icy cane, Sirfetch'd eventually finds an opening and manages to land a super effective blow on the Comedian Pokémon. Sirfetch'd attempts to follow up with Brutal Swing, only to have its leek sword grabbed by Mr. Rime, allowing the Psychic type to easily land a super effective Expanding Force, made even stronger thanks to the Psychic Terrain. The blow causes Sirfetch'd lose hold of its shield, leaving it wide open for a Triple Axel. Mr. Rime continues the offensive with another Expanding Force, but Sirfetch'd succeeds in dodging it thanks to Detect, before using its leek sword to pole vault over its opponent and retrieve its shield just in time to defend itself from another Triple Axel. Ash orders another Fury Cutter, but instead of Mr. Rime, he surprises everyone by ordering Sirfetch'd to attack the battlefield. Ash's intention becomes apparent seconds later, when the Bug-type move succeeds in destroying the Psychic Terrain, negating one of Mr. Rime's advantages.

Having achieved what he set out to do with Sirfetch'd, Ash recalls it in favor of Lucario, with the two Pokémon sharing a figurative high five as they switch places. Ash wastes no time in Mega Evolving his partner, who expresses its determination by releasing a wind-like burst of Aura that is felt by everyone across Wyndon Stadium. Lucario charges in for a Bullet Punch, but Mr. Rime still has the ice battlefield in its favor, dodging Lucario's attack and hitting it with two consecutive series of Triple Axel. Following Ash's instructions, Lucario closes its eyes and uses its Aura sense to sense Mr. Rime's movements while readying an Aura Sphere. Mr. Rime goes for another Triple Axel, but Lucario senses the incoming attack and avoids it before loosing the Aura Sphere, defeating the Comedian Pokémon and restoring the battlefield to normal in the process.

Leon's next Pokémon of choice is Dragapult. Ash has Lucario use Double Team, followed by Bullet Punch. While Lucario manages to score a direct hit, Dragapult's counterattack comes in the form of a Flamethrower, which Ash immediately recalls Lucario out of, replacing the Aura Pokémon with Dracovish. Ash's Dragon type charges in with Dragon Rush, but the attack is disrupted by a hit from Dragapult's Dragon Darts. When the second Dragon Darts Dreepy is about to hit, Ash has Dracovish stop it by biting down on it. Doing this causes Dracovish to start shivering unexpectedly, though it is cut short by another hit from Dragon Darts, allowing both Dreepy to return to Dragapult. As Dracovish stands back up, the spikes along its body start glowing red and become covered in red energy, much to general confusion. In her and Diantha's skybox, Cynthia theorizes that the clash of Dragon moves may have awakened a long-dormant power within Dracovish. Ignoring this unusual occurrence, Leon tells Dragapult to use Thunderbolt, scoring a direct hit, before having Dragapult charge in for the finishing blow. This proves to be a mistake, however, as it allows Dracovish's energy-covered spikes to clamp down on Dragapult, pinning it down and allowing Dracovish to land an easy Fishious Rend on it. Dragapult is still far from immobilized, though, as Leon demonstrates by ordering a Dragon Tail. Dracovish attempts to stop this by freezing Dragapult with Ice Fang, but is unable to freeze it completely, allowing Dragon Tail to make contact.

Due to Dragon Tail's effect, Dracovish is sent back into its Poké Ball and Dragonite is forcibly sent out. Dragapult attacks its opponent with Dragon Darts, while Dragonite uses Dragon Dance, using the Dragon Darts to speed up its spinning. Instead of the intense spinning repelling the Dragon Darts, however, they resiliently stick on Dragonite's tail. The Dragon Pokémon attempts to attack the two Dreepy with Dragon Claw, but they prove too fast for it to hit, much to its irritation. When the Dreepy return to Dragapult, Dragonite attempts to attack it instead, only to be hit by Dragon Tail and be forcibly replaced by Lucario as a result. After calming himself down with a deep breath, Ash orders a Bullet Punch, which makes contact. After blocking a Thunderbolt with Reversal, Lucario tries to use Bullet Punch again, but ends up freezing in place; it turns out Thunderbolt succeeded in paralyzing it. With Lucario immobilized, Dragapult lands another Flamethrower on it, causing Lucario to revert to its usual form and collapse, being ruled unable to battle.

At Ash's call, Dragonite returns to the battlefield to resume the clash between Dragon types. Dragonite whips up a powerful Hurricane, which tosses Dragapult around and even affects the audience. Unconcerned, Leon has Dragapult unleash a Thunderbolt in every direction, not only dissipating the Hurricane but also striking Dragonite. Ash's Dragon type flies high into the air and uses Draco Meteor, successfully shooting down another attempt at Dragon Darts while the two Dragon types charge at each other. Following Ash's orders, Dragonite grabs Dragapult and plummets to the ground along with its own Draco Meteor, enduring a Thunderbolt while replicating the strategy from Ash's visit to Professor Oak's Laboratory. When the cloud of dust clears, Dragonite is still standing, while Dragapult has finally been defeated, resulting in loud cheers from those watching the battle. Leon recalls Dragapult and compliments Ash's skills, but also points out that all of Ash's remaining Pokémon are worn out as he sends out Rillaboom as his fifth Pokémon.

Lincoln: Was this Leon’s plan?!

Mirabel: I sure hope not.

Dawn: Leon probably only pointed it out

Chloe: Most likey.

Chapter Text

Ash and Leon's Full Battle in the Masters Eight Tournament finals continues. While Ash is in the lead in terms of remaining Pokémon, with him having four compared to Leon's three, his team members are getting exhausted from the battles they've already had. His Dragonite begins the newest matchup against Leon's Rillaboom by countering its Drum Beating with Hurricane, dealing super effective damage. Rillaboom responds to this by beating its drum even harder, making the roots block most of the move and pummel Dragonite down to the ground. Due to Drum Beating's effect, Dragonite also suffers a Speed drop as it stands back up. Ash follows up with the Draco Meteor strategy that defeated Dragapult, but Leon is prepared for it now and has Rillaboom swat all the meteors away with Drum Beating before producing another root to grab Dragonite à la Vine Whip and send it back to ground once more. Dragonite roars with determination and immediately charges back in with Dragon Claw, which Rillaboom meets with Acrobatics, nimbly moving around the flurry of Dragon Claws before dealing the finishing blow with an open-palm thrust, showing off how Leon can handle opponents even while at a type disadvantage.

The next Pokémon to rejoin the battle on Ash's side is Sirfetch'd. The two physically oriented Pokémon clash with Meteor Assault and High Horsepower, putting raw power against raw power. Ultimately, Sirfetch'd wins the clash of brute force and sends Rillaboom flying back. However, Rillaboom is still not out yet, and stands back up while leaning on its drum. With Sirfetch'd momentarily immobilized due to using Meteor Assault, Rillaboom gets a free chance to attack and sends Sirfetch'd flying with High Horsepower before following it up with Drum Beating. Sirfetch'd glides towards Rillaboom by riding on its shield and dodges the roots as it prepares to use Fury Cutter, abandoning its shield when Rillaboom leaps towards it with Acrobatics. Grabbing the discarded shield, Rillaboom disrupts the Fury Cutter before it can make contact by throwing the shield right back at its owner and then slamming Sirfetch'd itself down to the ground. The Wild Duck Pokémon struggles to stand back up, but ultimately fails to do so. In just two rounds, Leon has turned the tide and made himself the one with more Pokémon remaining in his usable arsenal.

Leon thanks Ash for having given him the chance to show off his full potential; however, he also feels sad at the thought that this exciting battle is going to end soon. Ash declares that the match isn't over yet and sends out Dracovish, who's still utilizing the glowing spikes it awakened earlier. A clash between Drum Beating and Ice Fang ensues, and while Dracovish is momentarily thrown back, it quickly pins the roots down by sticking its spikes into them and then biting down on them. The ice-covered roots shatter within seconds, much to Rillaboom's frustration. Dracovish continues its assault with Dragon Rush, carrying on the spirit of its fallen friend Sirfetch'd as Rillaboom meets the attack head-on with High Horsepower. The two powerful moves clash as Rillaboom attempts push back, but its stamina finally runs out and it collapses, evening the odds once more. Leon responds to this knockout by sending out the Pokémon that started this battle, Cinderace, who wastes no time in dealing a big hit with High Jump Kick, its Libero Ability changing it into a Fighting type in the process. A clash between Water Gun and Pyro Ball follows, cancelling out both moves. Dracovish next tries to land a Fishious Rend, but is countered and sent flying back by an Iron Head. With Dracovish visibly running low on energy, Ash is determined to make the next attack land and orders a Dragon Rush. Cinderace charges in with High Jump Kick and jumps over Dracovish's attack at the last second before landing its own attack from above, bringing an end to the Fossil Pokémon's time in the battle.

With Ash only having one Pokémon left to his name, Leon recalls Cinderace so he can finish the match with his ace, Charizard. As Ash's last Pokémon, Pikachu, reenters the battlefield, Leon takes a moment to reveal to Ash how Charizard was the first Pokémon he ever caught and battled with, making them inseparable, lifelong partners with a long history together. Ash assures that the same also stands true for him and Pikachu, which is why he intends Pikachu to be the one to defeat Charizard. Smirking at Ash's confidence, Leon declares that them being partners is the reason why he intends to finish this with Charizard, recalling his partner and Gigantamaxing it. Unfaltering, Ash calls for a Thunderbolt, which Charizard counters with Max Rockfall. While Pikachu succeeds in jumping over the move, the brief sandstorm created by the Max Move disrupts the Thunderbolt before it can go off. Despite this, the jump Pikachu made to avoid the attack has put him on an even level with Charizard's head, allowing him to land an Iron Tail on it. Gigantamax Charizard doesn't even flinch from this hit, however, and as Pikachu lands back on the ground, Charizard surrounds him in a vortex of Max Wyrmwind. Although Pikachu manages to endure the attack, Ash can't help but be impressed by the power of Gigantamax. Glancing at his Z-Power Ring, he knows there's only one thing he can do to match that power and tosses his hat to Pikachu. With Ash's friends, family, and Pokémon from Alola watching everything through television, Ash executes his and Pikachu's signature Z-Move, 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt. His excitement peaking, Leon meets Ash's full power with his own and orders Charizard to use G-Max Wildfire. The ultimate Z-Move and Charizard's G-Max Move clash in a display of power that shakes the entire Wyndon Stadium. Leon exclaims that he's dreamed of pitting Gigantamax against a Z-Move, which Ash agrees with as well.

While the two devastating attacks continue to clash, in Hammerlocke, Professor Magnolia is observing Eternatus in the Energy Plant beneath Hammerlocke Stadium, noticing that the Legendary Pokémon's Galar particles are reacting in a way she's never seen before. With a roar, the Gigantic Pokémon unleashes a Dynamax Cannon into the air and breaks out of the Stadium. As Professor Magnolia fears the possibility of another Darkest Day, in Wyndon, the clash between Ash and Leon's ultimate attacks ends in a devastating burst of energy. However, despite Charizard's Gigantamax state ending following its third attack, the dark clouds over Wyndon Stadium do not disappear like they usually do. In the audience, Sonia theorizes that the clash of Gigantamax and a Z-Move, combined with Ash's earlier use of Mega Evolution, is the reason behind this unusual situation. Things only continue to get all the more unexpected and unusual when Eternatus suddenly appears over the Stadium and lets out a loud roar.

Mirabel: That big thing is in the sky!

Lincoln: It’s gonna eat us!

Dawn: Oh no!

Chloe: you know we are protected right?

Mirabel: Oh....

Lincoln: I forgot about that.

Chapter Text

Eternatus has appeared above Wyndon Stadium during the Masters Eight Tournament finals. Reporting the situation to her grandmother, Sonia informs Professor Magnolia of the high activity of Galar particles in the area, which is likely the reason why Eternatus was drawn there. With a roar, the Legendary Pokémon fires a Dynamax Cannon into the sky, causing the dark clouds above the stadium to part and the Galar particle to stabilize, showing that Eternatus had come here to protect Galar. Following one more roar, Eternatus flies away. Leon thanks Eternatus for protecting them and points out to Ash that the Gigantic Pokémon left them a parting gift in the form of recharged Dynamax Bands. He recalls his Charizard and uses his rejuvenated Dynamax Band on Cinderace's Poké Ball, performing his second Gigantamax in this Full Battle. Ash decides to respond in kind, loading Pikachu with power from his own Dynamax Band and tossing him to the battlefield as the Mouse Pokémon Gigantamaxes as well. Both Pokémon launch their respective G-Max Moves, G-Max Fireball and G-Max Volt Crash. Both attacks land, despite the attempts at holding them back, creating a pair of giant explosions. When the smoke clears, it turns out the extreme power exerted by the two Pokémon has caused them to revert to normal prematurely. Moments later, Cinderace collapses, ending the Gigantamax showdown in Pikachu's victory and leaving both Trainers with their last Pokémon.

Leon sends Charizard back out, preparing for the final clash between two partner Pokémon. Leon thanks Ash for giving him such an exciting battle and resolves to keep doing his best until the very end. Ash is also fired up, declaring that this battle is a culmination of everything he's experienced since he first met Pikachu, which is why he fully intends to win. Pikachu begins the confrontation with Quick Attack, avoiding an Ancient Power before landing a hit that he tries to follow up with Iron Tail. Charizard pushes Pikachu back with its own tail and then uses Air Slash to bombard both Pikachu and the battlefield around him. A Fire Blast follows, which Pikachu stops with Electroweb, giving him enough time to get out of the blast radius. Next comes a meeting of Fire Blast and Thunderbolt, which pushes both Pokémon back. When Pikachu uses Iron Tail once again, Leon lets Charizard take the hit, leaving Pikachu open for a close-range Dragon Pulse that blows him back, with him only narrowly escaping its full force by blasting it apart with Thunderbolt.

Ash and Pikachu are still far from done and express their determination with a grand display of Electric power from Pikachu. Filled with excitement, Leon and Charizard respond in kind with a show of Charizard's Fire power. While Sonia looks down at Leon from the stands and reminisces how much he has grown since she first battled against him as a child, Pikachu strikes Charizard with a blindingly fast Quick Attack. Once more, Charizard uses Ancient Power, which Pikachu evades by jumping from floating rock to another, until he's running upside down along the arc running over the stadium. Charizard pursues Pikachu while using Air Slash, which Pikachu meets with a series of Iron Tail as he drops back down. Dodging Pikachu's last Iron Tail swing, Charizard releases another Fire Blast. Ash calls for a Thunderbolt to stop it, but Pikachu fails to react in time, allowing Charizard's devastating Fire move to finally make contact. When the smoke clears, it becomes clear that Pikachu has taken heavy damage from the hit. The entire stadium and all of Ash's friends watching the battle descend into a deafening silence while Pikachu breathes heavily and struggles to stay conscious. Pikachu's vision grows blurry, and he collapses.

Pikachu recalls Ash's words from the day they first met and how he shocked him on sight. He then wakes up in a white void, with Bulbasaur, Squirtle, Charizard, Butterfree, and Pidgeot appearing around him. Looking around, Pikachu sees the rest of Ash's Kanto Pokémon, as well as his Pokémon friends from Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, Unova, Kalos, Alola, and the current team, all cheering for him. Finally, Ash himself also appears, telling Pikachu how all of their companions are at their side. With the support of his friends from past and present alike on his side, Pikachu stands back up and releases a massive burst of electricity, which also occurs in the real world. Flipping his hat backwards, Ash declares that the next attack will finish it and a familar song plays....

I wanna be the very best
Like no one ever was
To catch them is my real test
To train them is my cause
I will travel across the land
Searching far and wide
Teach Pokémon to understand
The power that's inside

Leon grows equally excited and tosses his own hat aside to show he's putting everything into his next blow as well. Filled with passion, Ash and Leon order their respective partners to use Thunderbolt and Fire Blast while diving at each other. The two fired-up Pokémon crash into each other in a literal head-to-head collision, putting everything they have into use in order to overpower the other.

(Pokémon)
Gotta catch 'em all) It's you and me
I know it's my destiny (Pokémon)
Oh, you're my best friend
In a world we must defend (Pokémon
Gotta catch 'em all) A heart so true
Our courage will pull us through
You teach me and I'll teach you (Ooh, ooh)
Pokémon! (Gotta catch 'em all)
Pokemon!

Waking up at a Pokémon Center, Pikachu sees Ash and starts recalling how the battle ended. Following the fierce clash, both Pokémon are pushed back. Charizard lets out a determined roar, but then slowly keels over and falls down. The official judgment is made: Charizard is unable to battle, meaning that the winner of the Masters Eight Tournament and the new Monarch is Ash. The stadium explodes with cheers at the birth of a new World Champion and Ash rushes to scoop the thoroughly exhausted Pikachu into his arms for a celebratory hug. Back at the present, Ash congratulates Pikachu for winning the battle as his partner happily jumps into his arms once again. Leon enters the room and thanks Ash for the fun battle before telling him how this match actually reminded him of his first-ever battle against Sonia, which had taught him the excitement of battling and even the frustration of losing. He declares that from now on, he's just another challenger, and both he and Ash promise to battle again someday. They are then joined by Dawn, Mirabel, Lincoln and Chloe, who invite them to the field for the awards ceremony. With the whole world watching, Leon presents Ash with the golden trophy, which is so heavy he needs the support of his team to lift it. At Professor Oak's Laboratory, all of Ash's Pokémon let off a fireworks display of moves as they joyously celebrate their Trainer's victory. In the stands, Team Rocket is so caught up in their happiness at Ash winning that they completely forget about their plan to steal his Pokémon. The entire stadium cheers for Ash as he raises the trophy up high and the World Coronation Series season comes to a close.

Outside the Stadium, The Multiverse Trio ae preparing to depart

Lincoln: Congrats again dude!

Mirabel: You did so well!

Ash: Aw, thanks guys!

Ash: I think this calls for a fist bump!

Ash sticks out his fist as Mirabel and Lincoln join in

The trio look toward Chloe and Dawn

Ash: Cmon girls, join in!

Mirabel: Yeah!

Lincoln: Cmon!

Chloe and Dawn join in before they separate

Ash presses his homing beacon

Lisa: Hello Ash, what do you need?

Ash: I need you to send Mirabel and Lincoln back

Lisa: Alright, give me a moment

A portal to Lincoln’s universe opens up in front of the group

Lincoln: Goodbye!

Mirabel: See ya!

Ash: Bye!

Dawn: Stay safe!

Chloe: Goodbye!

Lincoln and Mirabel walk through as the portal disappears.

The next morning, Ash is woken up from his sleep at the Rose of the Rondelands hotel by a phone call from Goh. Figuring it must be about Mew, Ash wakes up Pikachu and happily responds to the call.