Gabite collapsed to the ground.
Though it still tried to get up, in the end, it could no longer continue and dropped unconscious.
With Gabite down, the panel of judges immediately raised a red "X."
In the Contest Battle format, when a Pokémon completely loses the ability to battle, a large, holographic "X" appears from the judges — signaling disqualification.
"Yes! Pachirisu, Mamoswine, I knew you two could do it!" Nᴇw novel chapters are publɪshed on novel·fire·net
Dawn was clearly elated. Even though she had expected to beat Ursula, winning still filled her with joy.
In her group, only Ursula had posed a real threat. Now that she was out of the way, just two more wins stood between Dawn and topping her group.
On Dawn's side, everything was going smoothly. And on another battlefield, Nando too had claimed victory in his first match with overwhelming style and strength!
His Sunflora and Roserade performed flawlessly, combining power and elegance in a way that left the audience stunned.
Nando lost only half his points while his opponent's score dropped to zero — a total domination in both strategy and flair.
Elsewhere, Jessilina — the alter ego of Jessie — took the stage using James's Carnivine and Mime Jr.
Though usually outmatched by Ash and friends, Carnivine and Mime Jr. actually made for an amusing and likable combo.
And with Mime Jr.'s adorable antics, the crowd couldn't help but cheer.
Watching from the stands, James was moved to tears seeing his Pokémon finally adored and victorious — while Jessie celebrated her own unexpected win.
This time, she had come prepared — extremely prepared.
Her Glameow's tail had been trained and refined to perfection, becoming a powerful tool for defense and coordination.
It was much like how Johanna, Dawn's mother, used her Glameow back in her prime.
"Aunt Johanna, you came too!"
Ash and Anabel were seated together cheering for Dawn when Johanna arrived and gave them a friendly nod before turning her attention to the stage.
Dawn was now in another match, still within her group.
"Dawn's grown so much," Johanna said warmly, watching the match. "And I have you and Anabel to thank, Ash. Without your influence, she wouldn't be this strong or confident."
"This is her first Grand Festival. As her mom, of course I had to come cheer her on personally!"
Even while speaking, Johanna's gaze never left her daughter.
"Mamoswine, Pachirisu — one more time! Let's finish this with the Crystal Chandelier!"
Dawn gave her command with passion. The combination attack, which had already dazzled everyone in her battle against Ursula, was about to make a return.
Ice Shard and Discharge combined into a gleaming, resplendent Crystal Chandelier — a stunning visual masterpiece.
Another win, secured!
From the judge's panel, Fantina and Wallace were lavish with their praise, complimenting Dawn's innovation and beauty.
Even Mr. Contesta and Mr. Sukizo were nodding approvingly, while Nurse Joy looked on with an excited smile.
"The Contest Battles today have left everyone breathless!"
Marian stood center stage, announcing excitedly, "The four strongest Coordinators from each group have emerged! Tomorrow, these four will compete for the Grand Festival's ultimate title!"
On the screen appeared the finalists: Dawn, Zoey, Nando, and Jessilina.
Marian's excitement was hard to contain — even she could hardly believe how intense the competition had become.
The break until tomorrow was also to allow the Pokémon to recover.
Seeing her mother there in person, Dawn was moved to tears.
When she asked Johanna for any advice, her mother simply smiled and said:
"I walk my path, you walk yours. And what I saw today… it was incredible. You and your Pokémon — you're ready. I'll be watching as you surpass me one day."
Dawn nodded firmly, determination blazing in her eyes.
Meanwhile, Johanna turned to Ash with a smile. "You'll be entering the Sinnoh League at Lily of the Valley Island soon, right? That's an even bigger stage than this Grand Festival. Are you confident?"
Ash replied simply, "I have only one goal."
Johanna thought she understood.
Aiming for the Champion title?
Ash had something else in mind — defeating Tobias in a crushing showdown. That was his real goal.
After all, the Champion title was already within his grasp.
The night passed quietly.
The next morning, the entire Lake Resort was abuzz with energy!
Today was the day — the top four Coordinators would battle for the Grand Festival's championship!
"Ladies and gentlemen!" Marian's voice echoed across the stage. "I know you're all just as excited as I am to see who will take the crown at this year's Sinnoh Grand Festival. So let's dive into today's matchups!"
All eyes turned to the big screen.
Dawn vs Jessilina, Nando vs Zoey!
Jessilina was fired up.
"Hah! Didn't expect to face the little brat first. With the twerp not around, this'll be easy. You're going down, girly!" Jessie sneered.
She was already imagining herself hoisting the trophy.
But reality hit hard.
Because she couldn't even beat Dawn.
Dawn brought out her Buneary and Cyndaquil.
Jessilina sent out Carnivine and Seviper.
The very duo that had been repeatedly beaten in the past — and this time was no different.
Jessie's weakness had always been battle strategy.
She could manage a solid performance in appeals, but once the Contest turned into a battle, she was completely outclassed.
Especially against someone like Dawn, who had both Anabel and Ash as her guiding lights.
Even though she had only begun her journey this year, her strength was already far beyond that of most new Trainers.
Meanwhile, the real highlight was Nando vs Zoey — a truly even matchup!
Nando used Lopunny and Kricketune.
Zoey chose Mismagius and Leafeon.
Her choice wasn't random — Zoey had planned this specifically to counter Nando.
Despite Nando's exceptional talent, his Pokémon lineup lacked variety. He leaned heavily on Grass- and Bug-types and frequently centered his routines around singing attacks.
Even when being targeted , Nando still put up a fierce fight.
Zoey emerged victorious.
And now — the final clash: Dawn vs Zoey.
Only one would claim the title of Grand Festival Champion!
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