Loud applause broke out all around.
Clap, clap, clap—
"What a shame! I thought that Golden Water Shuriken was incredible!"
"Me too!"
"You were awesome, Ash!"
Ash's neighbors cheered for the boy they had watched grow up, and others joined in.
At first, everyone had been full of praise for the newly arrived Baimu. But once the battle ended, it was clear that the one they truly supported was still Ash.
The trainers from Pallet Town were no exception. They praised Ash-Greninja's performance without end.
Deep down, they all thought the Golden Water Shuriken might have taken down Mega Mawile.
After all, most people believed a battle between Champions often came down to a single move.
No matter how evenly matched the opening exchanges were, one move at the critical moment decided everything!
It was rather like watching two glass cannons blast away at each other.
Besides, trainers often cared more about their personal favorites than a Pokémon's natural strength.
Why else would there be so many Bug Catchers?
Wild Starter Pokémon being relatively rare was one thing; new trainers being unable to obtain them was another.
The major Pokémon Leagues generally maintained extensive breeding facilities for Pokémon that were easy to raise, friendly toward humans, and full of potential. Once a local Pokémon Center submitted a request, arrangements could be made quickly.
So even though Mawile had won, and even though her strength was frightening, those who supported Greninja still chose to support him.
And the reverse was true as well.
"Get some good rest."
Baimu recalled the disgruntled Mawile and stepped onto the wrecked lawn.
Just then, Ash hoisted Greninja onto his shoulders. Oshawott, who had woken up earlier, charged over with excited cries, eager for a rematch.
"Osha! Osha!"
"Pika..."
Pikachu looked embarrassed and dragged him away