Ash's Greninja was so frustrated it nearly cried. This was just unfair! They had all undergone the Bond Phenomenon, yet a whole group was ganging up on one.
The Water Shuriken thrown by Ash's Greninja vanished under the attacks of Hu Bin's many Greninja without so much as a splash. Ash's Greninja collapsed onto the battlefield, reverted from its transformed state, and was unable to battle.
Ash felt his Greninja's pain. He cried out and dropped to one knee, gasping for breath.
Only after taking a good while to recover did Ash stand up. Beaming at Hu Bin, he said, "Master, you're incredible! I'm no match for you at all."
Hu Bin recalled Greninja, folded his arms, and smiled at Ash. "You still have one Pokémon left. Send Pikachu out to battle!"
Ash nodded and said to Pikachu on his shoulder, "I'm counting on you, Pikachu!"
Pikachu patted its chest, brimming with confidence!
Then it trotted onto the battlefield and planted its little paws on its hips, looking very pleased with itself!
Hu Bin couldn't help laughing. Little Pikachu really was full of energy. It was just too cute.
Next, Hu Bin threw a Poké Ball and sent Zeraora onto the field!
Zeraora, radiating an imposing presence, glanced at Pikachu. Pikachu's ears immediately drooped, its earlier swagger gone.
So strong! So scary!
Ash said, "Go, Pikachu! Quick Attack!"
Pikachu rekindled its fighting spirit and charged toward Zeraora in a streak of light.
"Plasma Fists, Zeraora!"
Zeraora had yet to lose to any Pokémon in speed. A single punch struck Pikachu squarely and sent it flying.
Pikachu collapsed onto the ground, its ears drooping.
Then Pikachu got back up and stared at Zeraora, sparks flying from the two little electric sacs on its cheeks!
"Go, Pikachu! Use Electro Ball!"
Electricity crackled