The finals of the Lumiose Conference had reached their last, decisive moments.
Alain's ace, Charizard, remained unstoppable, easily defeating the exhausted Pikachu and tying the score at five to five.
Now, neither side had any room to retreat. Each had only one Pokémon left.
"Alain, we aren't going to lose! Let's settle this!"
"Greninja, unleash all our potential and become stronger than ever!"
Ash held his breath and focused, his heart connecting with Greninja's as they entered the Bond Phenomenon.
In an instant, surging water erupted across the battlefield, gathering into a spectacular, massive pillar.
Surrounded by the rushing water, Greninja's form began to undergo a strange transformation.
Uncanny red markings appeared on its head, while a huge, mysterious Water Shuriken extended from its back like transparent wings.
This was the unique form born of the deep bond between Greninja and Ash.
"Respond to my heart, Key Stone! Beyond Evolution... Mega Evolution!"
Not to be outdone, Alain activated Mega Evolution as well.
Mega Charizard X appeared before the crowd, its body gray-black and sky-blue flames burning at its face and tail, facing Greninja in its bonded form.
The standoff between the two Pokémon ignited the spectators' excitement and drove the atmosphere to its peak.
"Greninja, use Quick Attack!"
Remembering Bai Shi, with whom he had just reunited, Ash had a flash of inspiration and gave Greninja the command.
Greninja became a streak of white light, charging toward Mega Charizard at astonishing speed.
"Mega Charizard, use Flamethrower!"
Alain's expression remained unchanged as he calmly issued his command.
Mega Charizard opened its mouth and unleashed a stream of searing sky-blue flames at the approaching Greninja.
"Greninja, use Cut!"
Rather than retreat, Ash pressed forward, directing Greninja through his thoughts.
A sharp blade of condensed white light appeared in Greninja's hand. With the