Converging Timelines

Heatran took High Horsepower head-on and still did not fall. Her body of molten steel was exceptionally tough, but even she struggled to withstand such a super-effective hit.

"To attack straight through Magma Storm... I didn't expect that."

Tobias sounded impressed. Most people trapped in Magma Storm would focus on escaping to avoid the continuing heat damage. He had never seen anyone keep attacking through it.

"It's not over yet!"

Ash grinned and waved his arm. "High Horsepower again!"

"Snor!"

Snorlax charged through Magma Storm once more. But Tobias was no fool. If Fire-type moves weren't working, he would try something else.

"Body Press!"

Heatran drove her powerful body forward and slammed into Snorlax inside the storm. The impact blew Magma Storm apart, its flames flickering in the wind.

Every spectator held their breath, waiting to see who would win the clash.

Unfortunately, though Snorlax had the edge in endurance, he could not match Heatran's power. After holding out for five seconds, he was sent flying by Body Press and crashed heavily to the ground.

Neither Pokémon was in good shape now. Ash had no intention of switching; he was going all in.

"Now! Hyper Beam!"

"Snor!"

The moment Snorlax rose, he opened his mouth and began gathering energy. But he was a step too slow. Sharp stones erupted beneath him and struck a vital spot. Caught off guard by Stone Edge, Snorlax lost the ability to battle.

"..."

Ash's expression grew grave as he watched Snorlax fall. He had truly done all he could. At least Heatran was barely hanging on... Without hesitation, he sent out Infernape.

Ash had chosen his team for today based on Mingyou's tactical analysis of Tobias, though the final decisions had been his own.

Infernape had gained plenty of fans in its earlier battle