1. Ash's Story (Part 10: Galar)

Chapter 45

Facing off against Hop in the finals, a surge of determination courses through me as he speaks, his words charged with a blend of surprise and conviction. "I never would've imagined standing here, facing you of all people. But it's time to finish what I started that day. Got it? The one who'll become Champion is me!"

With a steady gaze, I meet his declaration head-on, a calm confidence lacing my response. "Sorry to say, but the path to victory and the chance to challenge Leon rests with me. It's my destiny to emerge triumphant and earn the right to battle against Leon."

The tension in the stadium reaches its peak as Dubwool and Sirfetch'd engage in a captivating battle. With an enthusiastic shout, Hop directs Dubwool into action. "We battled a lot of times, but I'm really fired up for this match in the stadium!"

Eagerly, I respond, my voice filled with determination. "You bet."

Dubwool charges forward, aiming to unleash a powerful Body Slam, but Sirfetch'd swiftly evades the attack with a graceful maneuver, countering with a devastating Brutal Swing that causes Dubwool to stumble and trip upon the arena floor.

"Zen Headbutt!" Hop commands, a glint of unwavering focus in his eyes. The attack connects solidly with Sirfetch'd, dealing a significant blow and visibly affecting its stamina. Undeterred, I seize the moment. "Let's showcase our new move! Meteor Assault!"

With determination, Sirfetch'd launches into action, aiming the Meteor Assault attack at Dubwool. Despite Hop's quick decision to have Dubwool employ Cotton Guard as a defensive measure, the move proves ineffective against the sheer force and determination behind Sirfetch'd's attack. In a stunning display of strength and resolve, Sirfetch'd emerges victorious, standing tall and resolute amidst the battle's aftermath.

Amidst the heightened anticipation of the crowd, Hop unveils his formidable Corviknight, its imposing presence casting a shadow over the battlefield, eliciting murmurs of awe from the spectators.

With a commanding gesture, Hop directs Corviknight to take flight, its metallic wings gleaming as it unleashes a powerful Steel Wing attack. Sirfetch'd valiantly counters with a flurry of Brave Bird strikes, each blow delivered with unwavering determination, yet Corviknight's stalwart defenses hold steadfast against the assault.

"Let's see how you deal with our own Brave Bird!" Hop's voice echoes across the stadium, a challenge issued with confidence. Despite Sirfetch'd's attempt to bolster its defenses using Iron Defense, Corviknight's Brave Bird manages to break through, knocking away the protective shield and landing a resounding hit on Sirfetch'd. As the shield knocked away, leaving Sirfetch'd momentarily vulnerable, Corviknight seizes the opportunity, swiftly following up with a powerful Drill Peck aimed to overcome Sirfetch'd and claim victory in the heated confrontation.

Cinderace, show 'em your blazing spirit!" With a burst of confidence, I call upon my second Pokémon, releasing Cinderace onto the battlefield.

Hop commands Corviknight to execute a Steel Wing, but Cinderace springs into action, leaving fiery streaks in its wake with a blazing Pyro Ball. Corviknight, displaying impressive agility, attempts to evade, but the searing attack finds its mark with pinpoint accuracy, forcefully propelling Corviknight backward.

Unyielding in its pursuit, Corviknight retaliates with another fierce Drill Peck. However, anticipating the move, I quickly instruct Cinderace to utilize Counter. With agile reflexes, Cinderace expertly counters the attack, redirecting the damage back at Corviknight with amplified force. The calculated move proves to be decisive, overwhelming Corviknight and ultimately knocking the formidable bird Pokémon out of the battle, paving the way for Cinderace's triumphant display of strength and strategy.