"Garchomp, prepare for battle!"
As Ash returned to the battlefield, Paul immediately released his next Pokémon.
The moment Garchomp appeared, an overwhelming aura of dragonic might and killing intent filled the air, causing all nearby Pokémon to react with visible alarm.
"GAARR!" It growled, surveying the surrounding Pokémon with a menacing grin, exuding an air of arrogance.
Now, with Ursaluna appearing docile, Torterra adopting a laid-back demeanor, and Electivire focusing on self-discipline, the situation was serious. Garchomp took it upon itself to lead the team, reminding the others of its ferocity.
"Roar!"
In response, Ash's Pokémon stirred, with Charizard unable to contain itself. It soared forward, landing before Ash with clenched fists, eyes locked onto Garchomp.
"Charizard…" Ash murmured.
"Roar!"
Charizard nodded at Ash, then unleashed a fearsome blaze skyward.
"Alright, it's decided—it's you!"
Ash smiled, retrieving his Mega Glove and raising his hand high.
"Our bond is unwavering. Charizard, Mega Evolve!"
With that, the Key Stone on Ash's glove resonated with the Mega Stone embedded in Charizard. A brilliant white light enveloped Charizard as its form began to change rapidly.
From within the light, an intense dragonic aura radiated, challenging Garchomp's dominance.
As the light faded, Charizard's skin turned grayish-black, its lower jaw to tail tip adopting a sky-blue hue. Its wings split into several sharp, claw-like tips, and two additional black horns sprouted on its head. The flames on its body transformed into a ghostly blue, exuding an intimidating presence.
"Roar!"
Mega Charizard X had arrived!
Post-Mega Evolution, even Pikachu would struggle to match its power.
"Hah~ interesting. I've been waiting for this." Paul thought, smirking as he raised his left hand. The Mega Badge on his sleeve gleamed brightly.
"Garchomp, Mega Evolve!"
"Garchomp!"
A flash of white light revealed a more robust and menacing Mega Garchomp, its claws now resembling deadly scythes.
The two Dragon-type Pokémon faced each other, their combined aura creating a palpable tension.
Ash and Paul locked eyes and shouted in unison:
"Dragon Claw!"
"GAAARRRR!"
"ROOOOAR!"
Both Pokémon roared and lunged forward, their claws glowing green. Spectral dragon claws and luminous scythes materialized as they clashed.
"Boom!"
The collision sent shockwaves through the battlefield, the impact resonating deeply.
In terms of raw strength, Charizard was at a disadvantage. However, with its Tough Claws ability enhancing its physical attacks, it managed to hold its ground.
The two evenly matched Pokémon exchanged blows, each strike aiming to inflict maximum damage.
However, Garchomp's rigorous training often sparring with Electivire and others, had honed its close-combat skills to a terrifying level.
Within seconds, Charizard felt the pressure mounting. Recognizing its disadvantage, it seized an opportunity to retreat and create distance.
"Dragon Pulse!"
Observing Charizard's struggle in close quarters, Ash swiftly adjusted his strategy.
"ROOOOAR!"
As Garchomp pursued, Charizard unleashed a powerful Dragon Pulse, resembling a ferocious dragon lunging at its target.
However…
"Slash!"
Unfazed, Garchomp swung its scythe-like claw, shattering the Dragon Pulse into shimmering fragments. Accelerating, it closed the gap and struck at Charizard.
"Dodge it!"
Responding to Ash's command, Charizard deftly maneuvered, its superior speed allowing it to evade Garchomp's attack and counter with another Dragon Pulse.
"Slash!"
Once again, Garchomp's claw dispersed the attack.
This time, Garchomp paused mid-air, closing its eyes with a chilling smile.
Moments later, its bloodshot dragon eyes locked onto Charizard, exuding a murderous intent that seemed capable of tearing its opponent apart.
Bloodline Awakening Mode: Activated!
"Dragon Dance!"
Ash decided to avoid direct confrontation.
"ROOOAR!"
Understanding instantly, Charizard soared higher, executing Dragon Dance to boost its speed and power, widening the gap between itself and Garchomp.
Yet, an overwhelming killing intent suddenly enveloped Charizard, causing its movements to stiffen.
Turning, it saw Garchomp also performing Dragon Dance, surrounded by a blue aura, resembling a menacing dragon in pursuit.
Dragon Rush!
Under normal circumstances, Charizard's speed would suffice to evade Garchomp.
But now, with Dragon Rush's locking effect and the oppressive aura, Charizard felt escape was impossible.
"Charizard, use Outrage!"
Ash commanded decisively.
"ROOOAR!"
Prideful, Charizard turned mid-air, activating Outrage as it charged at Garchomp, its black and blue body now tinged with a blood-red glow.
"Boom!"
The collision's outcome was evident.
In an instant, Garchomp empowered by Bloodline Awakening, overwhelmed Charizard.
An explosion followed, sending Charizard plummeting to the ground, severely injured.
It's super effective!
"Dragon Pulse!"
Garchomp unleashed another powerful Dragon Pulse engulfing Charizard.
"Boom!"
Another explosion echoed as Charizard lay defeated, reverting to its original form.
"Charizard is unable to battle. Garchomp wins!"
Gary announced, unable to hide his discomfort.
Another of Ash's Pokémon had fallen effortlessly to Paul.
In this battle, Paul seemed to control every move, with Ash ensnared like an insect in a spider's web—struggling only tightened the trap, bringing him closer to defeat.
Breaking free seemed impossible unless Ash could shatter the web entirely. Without that, victory or even survival was out of reach.
"Return, Charizard. You did well."
Recalling his Pokémon, Ash understood the gravity of the situation. His mind raced, yet no strategy emerged to counter Paul's dominance.
To overcome this losing streak, only one solution remained: wield absolute power to break the deadlock.
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