But rather than being swallowed up, Pidgeot forced its way through the towering curtain of Surf and struck Ludicolo.
U-turn did not deal much damage,
but the Bug-type move was effective against Ludicolo.
More importantly, Ludicolo's next attack missed.
Thanks to U-turn's special effect, the switch was triggered the instant Pidgeot touched Ludicolo.
Its body turned into a streak of red light and returned,
while another streak of red light shot out from Ash's hand.
The giant wave crashed onto the battlefield, sending water spraying everywhere.
Amid the rain, a sleek, athletic blue figure had already taken Pidgeot's place,
crouching steadily on one knee a short distance directly in front of Ludicolo, its raised eyes fixed on its target.
Ripples spread gently beneath its feet.
Greninja had entered the battle in the rain!
"My goodness! He used U-turn to break through Surf, hit Ludicolo, and complete the switch!"
"He minimized the damage taken and brought Greninja into the rainy battlefield where it had the greatest advantage!"
Ed was so excited that his voice nearly cracked.
"What absolutely brilliant timing!"
Even with Swift Swim, Ludicolo was not necessarily faster than Ash-Greninja.
Nessa's eyes lit up as well.
"He sacrificed Pidgeot's stamina for Greninja's perfect entrance. Ash's decision was bold and precise!"
"The situation has changed now. In the rain, Greninja's Water-type moves will also be boosted."
As Wallace looked at the sharp-eyed Greninja before him, the admiration on his face deepened.
"A beautiful switch. You used my wave as a stepping stone for your partner's entrance?"
Wallace snapped his fingers again.
"Let us continue this dance upon the water."
"Ludicolo, Giga Drain!"
Ludicolo fired an emerald-green beam of energy from its lily-pad hat straight at Greninja.
"Dodge it, then close the distance!"
Greninja's figure flickered through the water. With a ninja's