Review of the Series: Pokémon XY Part 3: Mega Revelations and the Performer's Dream

Welcome once more to the third part of my review of the XY series of Pokémon! I continue to hope that you've been enjoying this series. If you haven't noticed before, I do look less at a numerical basis or animation basis, but more analytical of the story aspect. Hopefully that's just as enjoyable.

Now, last time we covered the road from Lumiose City to Cyllage City. I described it as mostly filler, and it largely was, though what wasn't, was a very good part of the show. This time, however, there's far less of that, with a very long portion ahead of us. That's right, we're about to cover almost 30 episodes of content in this part! If you're ready for a long read (and lots of pictures), please read on!

Enter Miette and Champion Diantha!

Fresh off of winning the second badge, we head into a...well, a small stretch before getting to the next major arc of the series. Along the way, we meet two rather important characters, but we'll discuss each of them in turn.

Enter Miette and her sparking rivalry with Serena.

First up, in XY 26, we meet Miette the baker, who has a pretty bitchy Slurpuff but a headstrong attitude that makes Serena look like even more of a shrinking violet in comparison. Is it any surprise, then, that they pretty much look at each other as rivals from the moment they meet? Not really. In fact, they practically come off as foils to one another: both are into baking, both like Ash, but one is a little meeker than the other. Now, one would be forgiven for believing that Miette was a Character of the Day here, though her threat towards the end of the episode sort of hints that she isn't. Enough about that, though, let's go a little more in depth with it.

Serena giving more passion than usual towards something.

Jessie's hidden side, which will come into play sooner than later.

To start with, we once more elaborate on Serena's passion of baking. In fact, you can actually see her passion growing by this point. She really wants to beat Miette. She really wants to win this competition for baking. It's now starting to turn from "I like doing this" to "I want to do this and win". It's a subtle application, and not one that really comes into play for a bit of time, but it does show this slow progression of character when it comes to Serena, and is something that will very much come into play sooner than later at this point. We even get a hint at Jessie being into the same kind of professions as Serena, hinting at her later role in the series.

Confirmation, really, that Serena does have a crush on Ash.

In a different way, however, this also offers a confirmation of something that's been building since day one: Serena's growing crush on Ash. Now, in past series we've had numerous instances of characters teasing the female companions about maybe having a crush on Ash, and usually there's this laughing, fervent denial. In Serena's case, when Miette threatens to take Ash away, Serena doesn't deny. She doesn't reject. She just blushes. Whether you're an Amourshipper or not is irrelevant: at this point you can't deny that Serena very much has a thing for Ash, and that Miette is going to push or drag her along in this crush, whether she wants to be or not.

Bonnie begins to learn how to let go.

Following this, we have a light filler with a Flabébé. On the whole, a largely uninteresting episode, but it does do something for Bonnie. Like with Dedenne, it allows her to partially care for a Pokémon, but also forces her to say goodbye to it. It's a hard thing for her to do, being so young, but she does it with a smile on her face. For her, this might not mean much at the moment, but later down the line, one can see that this encounter and forcing her to say goodbye is showing her how to act in the face of sorrow, even if she isn't that close to Flabébé. On top of it, that the elderly woman is shown as sick here touches close to that topic of death and mortality, though it's a little looser this time.

Enter Diantha, Champion of Kalos

Professor Sycamore, the lady-killer.

What happens the next episode, however, pretty much eclipses that: we're finally introduced to Diantha, Champion of Kalos. In terms of her character, there's really not much to say, as the appearance is very brief and outside a few battles, she herself doesn't amount to much. We do have the return of Professor Sycamore, however, and see quite a few of his ladykilling tendencies while also being fully and properly introduced to Mega Evolution in the series proper.

Diantha's signature battle style

Before then, however, we do have a battle between Diantha and another trainer in an exhibition match. As expected of a Champion, she destroys him with her signature style: teleport around until she can land the final blow. She pulls this again on Ash later, showing that he's truly no match for her at this point in time. This will be important for later.

Diantha notices Ash's potential as a trainer.

Bonds in Mega Evolution: a constant theme through XY,
still being showcased.

What's more important is the examination of Diantha and Gardevoir's bond, and how it pertains to Mega Evolution. Ash and Diantha both describe it as hearts calling out to one another, a shared bond in a way. This is very much another strong theme of the XY series, and one that comes into very heavy play later with Ash and his own Pokémon. It also shows that a strong bond is needed with a Pokémon for Mega Evolution, so it does allow one to throw out the notion that cold and aloof people like Alain don't care about their Pokémon. Regardless of that, as expected, the Diantha battle has no major conclusion, but does end with Ash saying he'll win the League to challenge her, proving that Diantha does have a slight interest in him as a trainer.

Serena scolds Ash. Yeah, she doesn't just worship him.

Now, I'll admit: from this sole appearance...I really didn't care about Diantha, and I still view Cynthia as the best Champion in terms of series involvement, but at the very least, this set up the road to come for her involvement in the story (even if it's a long way off), while also showing other things such as how popular she is and that Serena is willing to chastise Ash if he's acting in a rather selfish way (as indicated when she slapped his hand). In other words, it's more a setup than any sort of significant payoff.

A humorous, but virtually useless, usage of
Clemont's invention failures.

To close off this section before the next arc, there's one more filler, wherein TRio impersonates Ash, Serena and Bonnie to lure Clemont into a trap. I'll admit that it's a fun filler but a bit of an idiot plot in the sense that if Clemont had gone along with his friends to the police, the whole plot would be avoided. Otherwise, seeing Clemont's invention failures work for him is pretty humorous, and James looks pretty good as Ash. Otherwise, just a fun filler, really, with nothing to truly note either character-wise or in the grand scheme of things.

And with that, the next arc begins!

Korrina

Korrina's introduction. A rival character, who's strong.
She's already had 99 straight victories!

To begin the first actual arc of the series (meaning a collection of episodes stringed together rather than separated by other episodes), we see Ash and the gang encounter a trainer with a Lucario. She's Korrina, and she's upbeat, ready for battle and in search of her 100th win. Right away, for those who haven't played the games, we're merely told she's a strong trainer, though it takes a further battle to prove all of that. Really, in a way, Korrina is a lot like a female version of Ash, a similarity that's noted later.

Focusing on strength instead of what's inside is a problem for Korrina.
Later, it becomes one for Ash.

In any case, as expected, Ash and Korrina do battle, where Pikachu gets absolutely bodied. However, while the battle is definitely meant to show that Ash will have to do some work to battle and win against Korrina (soon revealed as the Shalour Gym Leader), there are three separate aspects to the battle with Korrina that become important. For one thing, it's the fact that Korrina wants to become "stronger and stronger" while "rushing ahead". These are two things that become recurring for not only her own character, but Ash as well, later on. They focus on breaking through walls rather than focusing inward. The second aspect of importance is how, with a lack of Ash's rivals, Korrina serves as a current rival instead, akin to Clemont. Pretty sure it's the first time a Gym Leader has traveled with the group for an extended period and battled multiple times prior to their Gym battle; it really makes the rivalry effective. However, the final aspect of the battle that's important is a very small observation that Clemont makes: Lucario acts without Korrina's orders. They're two separate individuals, rather than working as one. It's a small, but key, observation.

Hello ketchup gag. Nice to see you return.

Also, the ketchup gag returns for the first time in forever. (Take that, continuity)

Mega Evolution users, and those like them, all seem to
gravitate towards knowing where their partners are.

Of course, TRio intervenes here (and boy, do they intervene a lot this arc), leading to a search for Lucario and Pikachu. This scene is less important for the search and more important for revealing the tie of bonds between those who use Mega Evolution, to the point of being able to find one another and connect with one another, sensing things together. It was started with Diantha and continued with Korrina, and eventually goes on to be a plot point later. Regardless, after rescuing Lucario and Pikachu the group chooses to head to Geosenge Town together.

The comparison of Ash and Korrina

Once more, at the start of the arrival in Geosenge Town, the similarity between Ash and Korrina is pointed out again, in terms of rushing into things. I've consistently said that the Korrina arc foreshadowed what needed to be done to master things for Ash later in the series, and I will still hold to that even now, given the similarities between the two and what they're forced to go through. In any case, following a brief search through town, the group gets their picture taken (fun Amourshipping hint, really, but mostly a setup for later), while being guided in the direction of the cave where the Lucarionite rests.

Bonds and not giving up; two facets that play into
the true strength of Mega Evolution

Soon after, we enter the cave, and Korrina is attacked by a Blaziken (funnily enough, a direct check to Lucario). The battle itself is hardly important, though the observation once more noted by Clemont is, as well as the showcasing of bonds in battle. Korrina and Lucario focusing on what matters most to them (the pciture) instead of strength, allows them to win the battle. Obviously, it's a tried and true message, but one that's pretty prevalent throughout XY, with a focus on family and bonds. This battle shows it, and really hints at what needs to be done to master Mega Evolution, as opposed to the strength Korrina believes in. Well, still, she wins the battle, meets her grandfather and gets the Lucarionite, preparing for a Mega Evolution!

Confirmation of how strong a Mega Evolution is
when compared to normal

Lucario goes berserk

...Which goes horribly in the very next episode. At first, it's great, and it shows just how strong a Mega is compared to a normal stage, which is the first time we've truly had such a comparison so far. However, that increase in power causes Lucario to go berserk and lay the hurt on poor Pikachu while completely ignoring Korrina...Hmm...

Gurkinn explains Korrina's issue:
a disconnect between herself and Lucario.

After a recovery period, Gurkinn reveals just why Lucario went crazy, especially when it does so again in another battle against Gurkinn's own Lucario: Korrina and Lucario fail to understand one another. In some way, one can put it as the two of them not being synchronized with one another, as Korrina lets Lucario do its own thing in battle instead of working together with him. You'll see much later how this hinted at the struggle that some trainers undergo to reach new heights with their Pokémon, but for now it seems exclusive to Korrina. To that end, Gurkinn tells Korrina to stop letting Lucario do what he wants and go in search of a Mega Evolution master. That directly leads the group on their next path as Korrina tries to find the answer to what her grandfather really means.

Trainers and Pokémon training together;
a precursor to what Ash later experiences

The following episode, admittedly, is not the best of the arc; probably a low point, really. But it does start the process of resolving Korrina's arc that happens in the next episode. On their way to the mountains with the Mega Evolution master, Korrina reveals that at the Shalour Gym, trainers and Pokémon train together (sound familiar?) which in large part explains why Korrina and Lucario are the way they are. It's, again, something that will come into play far later, but for now it's a mere ancillary note. The real bulk of the episode comes from Korrina and Lucario getting separated.

Korrina begins learning that she can't just let
Lucario do whatever he wants.

Here we get a further insistence of the "two individuals, one heart" that really forms the basis of Mega Evolution and certain later things. That the two are separated from one another and must learn to cope with that builds into it, especially for Korrina. Likewise, we really get a glimpse at what a support system Clemont is for a number of characters, not just Ash here; a role he plays far more often in the back half of the series (even if at the expense of his development). Anyway, when it comes to Korrina, she can't command Pikachu properly because she's so used to Lucario doing his own thing, but Pikachu and Ash aren't like that. Pikachu and Ash work in tandem, and it's by commanding Pikachu that she slowly starts to understand that it's about being as one, not just going with the flow and doing whatever in battle. With another battle against TRio, this starts setting in as they arrive at the Mega Evolution master's place.

Ash and Pikachu's flower: uniform.

Korrina and Lucario's flowers: separate

Soon after arriving with Mabel, we're treated to another Mega Evolution battle where...yeah, Lucario goes berserk again. Sure, they made some progress last episode, but it's not the case here. To remedy this, Mabel sets them to task by...arranging flowers. It's monotonous, and pretty boring. Even Serena shows that usual aspect of her character when she gets sick of arranging flowers and wants it to end; this girl really likes giving up at things. The flower arranging is pretty important, too. Just look at everyone's flowers and then at Korrina and Lucario's first one: most of them are singular, but their flowers are two distinct arrangements, showing that disparity.

Korrina and Lucario work as one for the first time.

However, what becomes the crux of this entire thing arrives when they pick their flowers on the final day. For the first time, Lucario is forced to fully listen to Korrina, who gives orders. This is the true beginning of the two of them moving in harmony. It's a synchronization of two hearts beating as one, in a sense. In fact, this is pretty much what Mabel tells Korrina, about tying two views together.

Tying two views into one and working together.
This forms the crux of the Korrina arc.

It's finally put to its test in the fullest against...well, against TRio of all people, but it makes sense given that they've been consistently stalking to grab Lucario this whole time. Finally, Korrina and Lucario are able to connect through their shared experiences, what has tied them together, and overcome the opposition to their Mega Evolution. They can finally draw out their full power (interestingly enough, Lucario now uses one bone in Bone Rush as opposed to the two from before, but it's really a momentary aesthetic) and with it, they destroy TRio. With that concluded, the group parts ways with Korrina to get ready for Ash's Shalour Gym match.

Now, I'm going to take a moment here with the conclusion of the arc to touch on it as a whole and its connection to the future. On the whole, the arc is really about the trouble in mastering Mega Evolution to bring out its true power, and that it is about the trainer and Pokémon working together. Not about strength, but about bonds. In the end, this arc is a hint towards what Ash will go through to master his transformation with Greninja, even almost 100 episodes in advance. So many of these things are repeated, making it one of the most important arcs. I've heard tell that Korrina could have been replaced with Iris for it, but I don't think that's the case, as not only would Iris be written poorly for it, but the same connection over time wouldn't be there. I do think the next big arc could have possibly been put here and this one later, along with this arc having a few boring moments courtesy of TRio really, but as it is, this is an arc with a huge meaning for the present and down the line, making it one of the best arcs of the XY series.

The Evolution of Ash's Team

My favorite Pokémon from Ash's team: Hawlucha.

Fresh off the adventure with Korrina, we finally break once more into more one-off episodes. In particular, Ash and the group in a forest where they meet a very special Fighting type who is the Champion of the Forest. It's none other than Hawlucha! Now, before I dive into the episode a little more, I won't lie: Hawlucha is probably one of my favorites of Ash's Pokémon. His theatrics combined with just being strong make him a really awesome character. I'm glad Ash caught him, especially as it had been 30 episodes since anything in Ash's team changed (not since Fletchling).

Hawlucha needs work on perfecting his Flying Press' timing.

So, to that point, we're introduced to Hawlucha in a fairly standard way: a brave Pokémon defending the little ones from an ornery Ursaring. Unfortunately, Hawlucha's signature move needs some work, as Flying Press tends to give its foes too much time to escape. Right here, we see that Hawlucha loves his theatrics. He's certainly a stoic, not even changing expressions the entire episode, but beneath that there's a guy who loves having fun.

Froakie and Hawlucha, the start of a mini-rivalry.

Not much of it shows through the episode, admittedly, but it makes his later slight character development really open him up. For now, though, the episode focuses on how much Ash is impressed by Hawlucha, the two being very similar: training, busting through walls and having an innate sense of justice. He even helps Hawlucha practice his Flying Press and perfect its timing! It shows in a battle against Froakie at the end.

There's also a bit of show of Hawlucha's honor, as well, as he's willing to face Machamp and expects no interference, while also giving the Forest Champion position to Machamp at the episode's end. Even his battle style is showcased, loving to take the hits over and over to get into the battle, showing how gutsy and spongelike he can be when it comes to taking damage. He's really a heck of a Pokémon, and a perfect addition to Ash's team. Following a battle with Froakie that sets up their light inter-team rivalry (later expanded upon), Hawlucha joins Ash's team! And what a capture he is!

Fletchling evolves into Fletchinder!

Though, capture isn't the only thing to take place on Ash's team, especially given the episode directly after. For one thing, we have Hawlucha being introduced directly to the team and fitting in, more or less, though you can see how Froakie really doesn't care much about the new member. What follows is an episode based on sky battling. Funnily enough, Serena shows the most aptitude for it in some way, but does nothing with it. Instead, the episode focuses a little more on the smaller members: Bonnie and Fletchling. I could make a total stretch and say "It foreshadows that the littlest ones have the biggest effect like Bonnie and Zygarde!" but that'd be grasping at straws. No, at best it provides Ash's first evolution to the series (and Hawlucha's first battle/loss from circumstances being non ideal), and establishes Fletchinder's style: speedy as all get out. With a Flame Charge added to a repertoire, Fletchinder very much shows it'll be a speedy battler with all the guts and determination of Ash's other Pokémon, no matter the challenge. But that's about all I can say for that key evolution.

Ash showcases his power of inspiration.

Serena is told not to give up when she's about to.

With that evolution, we dip back into a bit of filler, but to be fair, it's actually rather fun. The first one, XY 37, deals with Ash slipping through a mirror in Reflection Cave to an alternate universe where Serena's kind of a bitch, Clemont is super fast, Bonnie is proper and Ash is a crybaby. In general, what this episode really shows is Ash at his finest as a character. That he's able to inspire and embolden his own antithesis shows what a beacon he is for other characters. We've seen it a number of times through the series already, but this just shows how effective he is at it (plus, the episode is fun in general). Other than that, we do have this insistence about not giving up towards Serena, who was on the verge of it through much of the episode. We're almost there with her own character, and that maxim will prove to be ever the more important as time goes on.

The teamwork point gets driven home,
lending later credence to the Kalos bunch being
"The Ultimate Team"

Froakie and Hawlucha work together as a team.

In the following episode, we get more of a focus on teamwork. In general, XY also focuses a lot on teamwork alongside family. Small note is that Froakie learns Cut, which is obviously one of his set moves alongside Double Team later on; and we have more of Ash and Clemont battling each other (complete with vs. screen) to continue that "rivalry" that's been established. However, the meat of this episode is on Froakie and Hawlucha being unable to work together due to differing styles amongst one another: stoic compared to theatrical. It was hinted at very slightly earlier, but now it comes out. The excuse plot of the episode (and trust me, it was an excuse plot) is negligible in the face of what it's really about: making Froakie and Hawlucha partners. I've stated before that XY really makes this team out to be his ultimate team not because of strength but because they're a team. As Ash states: they cover each other's weaknesses and enhance one another's strengths. Where one falls, the other picks up the slack from where they left off. While this is true in most series, it's absolutely stressed here, and the ending Super Flying Cut is a testament of that, making the bonds in Ash's team stronger than ever.

Time for Summer Camp!

Professor Sycamore's Summer Camp begins!

It's quite the mess with the point rankings.

Fresh out of all of that, we arrive at yet another arc! (Wow, these are happening in quick succession, huh?) In this case, Ash and the gang arrive to take part in Professor Sycamore's Summer Camp! Now, before I get into the individual episodes of this particular set, I want to say something and get it out of the way: DP's Summer Camp was better. It was more humorously entertaining and made sense. While god-tier writer Tomioka wrote most of this one, the largest problem came down to it making no sense points-wise. The whole camp wasn't super fleshed out and could have possibly used an extra episode to show all the events. Likewise, a bit more reference to Ash and Serena's time at Professor Oak's Summer Camp could have been made.

That said, it's still a solid arc that finally eliminates the issue of Serena not having a dream, even if it's not explicitly stated yet, making it one of the most important arcs of the series at this point.

Tierno is introduced as a capable battler, equal to Ash...kinda.

Serena's Pokévision from XY 21 comes back to fully introduce her main arc.

So, the first thing to really say about this is how connective this is to past episodes, particularly XY 21. Early into the episode, Ash meets Tierno, who showcases himself as a skilled battler in the sense of being able to avoid damage. He's certainly able to break Ash's offensive pattern (even if I don't count that as a win in any sense). What's more important is that Tierno leads to an introduction to Shauna...who has seen Serena's Pokévision! That little thing that was a small want before has suddenly come back and become important. It even ignites a passion inside of Serena, especially given what it leads to. In fact, this episode makes Serena question what she's doing. She's had fun, and she's tried stuff, but meeting Tierno, Trevor and Shauna, she realizes that so many people have dreams but she doesn't; she just wanted to get away, and was overly hasty in doing so.

Serena begins to fully contemplate the fact
that she doesn't have a dream

Perhaps it's a bit apologetic of her character, but a large part of me feels that this moment could not have been possible had Serena decided on her dream earlier. The whole point of this is that she was aimlessly going along on an impulse to get away from her mother and find Ash, and now, after so long, she's realizing it's not good enough. Had she come to this realization earlier, it would have been just like every other character and it may not have felt so impactful for her to consider this.

Shauna's Bulbasaur is unsociable; hardly fitting for a Kalos Queen.

Charmander is a complete break from Trevor,
showing how incompatible they are

Serena worries over her lack of dream,
believing she's been too hasty in her travels.

Otherwise, the one other thing this episode shows is the Pokémon. Bulbasaur is shy and antisocial, hardly fitting for someone who wants to be a Kalos Queen (introduced soon). Likewise, Trevor does not have a grasp on his Charmander. In the words of the last arc, they are truly two minds that don't work as one. Is it any wonder he goes on to be the eternal jobber of the series? The only one skilled is Tierno, who can at least keep up with Ash...for now.

Serena turns want into passion, not wanting to lose and finding drive.

Pokémon Showcases are introduced, connecting them to Aria,
and fully cementing Serena's dream.

Confirmation that battles have nothing to do with Serena's own goal.

With the Summer Camp introductions out of the way, we move on to the next set while...glossing over the fishing competition. That would have been boring, anyway. Instead, we're set on to another Pokévision! With Shauna's enthusiasm prior, a passion has begun to be lit inside Serena to do another Pokévision; it's now turning from a mere desire into passion. This passion is furthered when Shauna links that into Pokémon Showcases, performing and becoming Kalos Queen. Not only does Aria (again, introduced in XY 21) come back in an important fashion, but it links everything back up. In particular, however, Shauna's language should be noted: it's not about battling, but about showing the bond with Pokémon in a different way. One should read this as: this isn't about competition, but the growth within. This is why Serena's rivals aren't hyper competitive rivals, necessarily, and her quest goes on to become about overcoming her own inner demons.

Nothing we do is pointless.
Nor have the last 40 episodes been so for Serena.

Serena begins making a decision for her dream.

In other words, this episode fully focuses on Serena finally turning all of her abilities and wants into a dream. She's finally about to find something that she can pour passion into. With Shauna's invitation to view a Showcase, she's already on her way to fully committing, but that's always been a foible of hers, so it will still take time to commit entirely and overcome it. What does help, however, is Ash, who tells her that nothing's she's done is pointless. All those little things: Rhyhorn Racing, baking, grooming, fishing, sky training, etc. They're not pointless. It's a wink to the audience that the writers knew they took time to get here, but it wasn't like Serena wasn't developing at all; everything she had was building to this moment, if you just look at it. On top of it, it furthers Ash and Serena's relationship by both showing Serena's kindness to him, while she gains inspiration from him.

To close this particular episode, Serena and their group win the Pokévision competition, showing that this kind of thing is truly what she's good at. With that, we move on to the next set.

Teamwork is once again the crux of this episode.

In the third episode of the arc, all of the teams take part in an Orienteering competition. Naturally, Ash's group and Tierno's group are the frontrunners, but the competition itself (feels like a call back to the triathlon race in DP, but more inferior) really isn't the focus. I mean, yeah, we have Ash saving his rival, Clemont stepping up, and Serena displaying her fear of rickety rope bridges that cripples her, but those fall by the wayside when Bonnie gets lost. It's really kind of a boring episode in the grand scheme of things. Sure, Xerneas shows up, and I could stretch by saying that Bonnie seeing it foreshadows her role as Zygarde's caretaker but...again, grasping at straws. Really, I just think Xerneas is a reference to the Diancie movie, as my personal belief is that the movie follows this arc (it only makes sense this way).

Ash and Clemont each accept they're skilled in different ways.

The only major thing that this particular episode contributes is, once again, that teamwork. Ash does what Clemont can't, and Clemont picks up the slack. After all, Clemont isn't nearly as athletic as Ash, so Ash can do all the leaping to save Bonnie, but it still requires a team effort to get the Drifblim up there to do so, and later to save Ash before he falls. It's another stressing of it, but truly shows that all of the main cast have their roles that they play. They're not the same as one another and can each do different things, which is stressed much later on. Otherwise, the last point they share, as both teams lose the competition, is that even with that loss, you're able to turn it into strength. Many characters are forced to accept this reality later on.

The final battle of summer camp!

Ash looks for assistance in developing a new strategy...
(Hint: it won't go well)

Comparison of Ash to Diantha.

To finally close off this arc, we have a set of triple battles. The first half of this final episode is really your basic TRio fluff. They've been around the arc, they finally act and then they get blasted off. As far as things actually occurring in this episode, there's not much happening. The focal point is the triple battle of Ash, Clemont and Serena against Tierno, Trevor and Shauna. Funnily enough, the two weak links of the respective trios are the first to go down, with Ash furthering the "loss into strength" for Serena, who's sad over losing. In any case, Ash's team wins and they get into the Hall of Fame...one that Diantha also got into. It's a subtle, but effective, comparison to the heights that Ash may reach in the future. To close off the arc, however, Ash asks to learn the dance strategy from Tierno in the hopes of using it to beat Korrina...though he's not very good at it, which may cause problems, but we'll discuss that soon.

On the whole, the Summer Camp arc is a fairly enjoyable one, pushing the envelope on Serena's development by giving her a direction she'll soon commit to. Really, this arc pushed her the most while establishing some rivalries for Ash. It's less a lesson in subtlety as much as it is the show saying that very soon, another phase of the journey will be beginning. With that, it closes the arc out and pushes us towards the next piece of action: the battle with Korrina is almost here.

Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction

See review here.

Vs. Korrina.

The horrendous new strategy in action.

At long last, we arrive in Shalour City, ready in time for the battle against Korrina...though it's held off for a bit because the path to the Tower of Mastery is closed right now. Instead we get to see Ash's new strategy in action! It sucks.

Serena shows a skill of hers, informing her upcoming profession.

Seriously, Ash can't dance worth beans, even if his partners can, which is a fact that's commented on. It's something that's really not Ash and creates this sort of dissonance with him and his team in a way. However, I'd actually say that's not all that important for the scene. We actually learn something else: Serena is good at dancing. What else requires a sense of dancing? Performing. It's pretty much slapping you over the head with what she's chosen, while also giving the information well before it's needed that Serena has the chops for Showcases and being a Performer.

The history of Mega Evolution.

Korrina and Lucario are now a force to be reckoned with.

In any case, soon after Serena's disastrous attempt at teaching Ash how to dance (it doesn't go well for either of them) they finally make their way to the Tower of Mastery and hear the stories of the origin of Mega Evolution...well, at least as far as Lucario is concerned. It's an interesting thing, but other than a little bit of world building, does nothing. Nor does TRio's usual thieving. The only two things we get out of that is a show of Serena's kindness in helping Gurkinn and truly confirming that Korrina's mastered Mega Evolution, becoming far stronger and ready to take on Ash in an official Gym Battle, the rivalry that's been building between the two ready to conclude.

Bonnie's clarification of the two as rivals.

Serena helps Ash fix his mindset about the battle.

Ash showing how he's afflicted by other trainers surpassing him, in a sense,
but discovering his own abilities.

So, we're finally here, and I can easily say that this Gym Battle is, bar none, the best in XY so far. However, it does come with its issues, I'll admit. For one, Ash's original strategy still sucks and forces Hawlucha to take far more damage than was necessary. Sure, it showcases how bulky Hawlucha can be, and also how he turns the battle around in just a couple moves, but it's a lack of foresight on Ash's part. There's a disconnection between he and his Pokémon at that moment, one where he takes the burden on himself for not finding the right rhythm. Yes, that issue from back with Sanpei has cropped up for just a second, along with compounding how seeing those ahead of him makes him want to rush things, but remembering Serena's advice from the evening before really gets him back on track. For another, Clemont remarks that a gym battle really begins when the challenger decides to take on that gym. It's an interesting note that doesn't have much bearing, but it does show that one's attitude prior to battle, even if it goes away, is still very much a part of the battle, something we've known since DP.

Confirmation of Hawlucha's bulkiness.

TRio is in the episode...maybe to show teamwork with Froakie on the side?
Kind of lame.

A show of how each member of the team contributes something.

Aura Sphere Climb!

From there, the battle is glorious! Yes, we do have an unfortunate TRio appearance as they attempt to interrupt, but Froakie and the others make short work of them. Pretty sure it was meant to, once more, stress the whole "teamwork" aspect. While Ash battles Korrina, Froakie takes care of TRio for no interferences, showing their "rhythm" as a team together, blending seamlessly. I'm still not a fan of it, though. The rest of the battle, though...amazing! Hawlucha dominates Meinfoo, Fletchinder owns Machoke, and perhaps the crowning moment of XY is Pikachu vs. Mega Lucario. This battle is intense, fast-paced, well-animated, blistering and with the return of Draco Meteor Climb, easily Ash's best showing. And Pikachu's. Not many could take down a Mega in base, but Pikachu does it, even if he's about to drop and it instantly becomes the gym battle to beat, putting a close on Ash and Korrina's rivalry. Oh, and keep in mind of Korrina's comment about Pikachu able to use Thunderbolt from a precarious position...it's a fact that comes into play later.

Serena's Decision

End result of a "Clemont and Bonnie fight" episode

With the full arc of Korrina's story complete, the story now shifts back into the land of filler. To be honest, they're kind of bland, too. XY 45 is decent, admittedly, but a typical story that I'm sure we saw in AG with May and Max. Yes, Clemont and Bonnie fight over something stupid (mostly Clemont being the busybody that he is) and then make up at the end of the episode. It's a nice little thing that showcases their characters, but ultimately just that: nice. Though it is funny to see Chespin join the long line of heartbroken Pokémon on the characters' teams.

Fairy is immune to Dragon...literally the only point of this episode

Of course, XY 46 is even less noteworthy in this section. At best we get some world building about why Wigglytuff are used in Kalos Pokémon Centers and the fact that Fairy types are immune to Dragon moves. But other than that, this episode is very much a skip...unless you want a single scene of Ash encouraging Wigglytuff, but you can see that anywhere.

Say hello to Pierre; his design says you'll be seeing a lot of him.

Aria makes her official debut

However, next episode becomes the most important episode for Serena's character thus far, officially setting her on the path she was already leaning into 7 episodes ago. In a town, Serena meets with Shauna to go watch a Showcase where Aria is performing with her Braixen (yes, the parallels between Serena and Aria are already ridiculously heavy, if not hammered into you until later). On top of this, we're introduced to Pierre and the world of Showcases, which, his design should already tell you that he'll be a big part of it, and thus we'll be seeing more of them. We also have Jessie observing it all, and one could already know that she plans to take part in these Showcases as well. Bit by bit, the stage for Serena's dream and challenges is being set before her, mostly in an obvious fashion.

The start of the rivalry.

Serena, at last, decides to become a Pokémon Performer!

The Showcase is quickly interrupted by a Pancham, not showing any more of it (my guess is that they hadn't worked out the final details of Showcases yet, even if they had Theme and Freestyle figured out). However, that very Pancham becomes the central figure of the episode, as expected. In fact, it hits two birds with one stone. For one, the whole plot kicks off by Pancham insulting Chespin, kickstarting their later rivalry, while leading the group on a merry chase into the forest where Serena sees how much Pancham loves Performing. Right at that moment Serena announces that she wants to catch it because she's going to become a Pokémon Performer. This is clearly not something she decided on in the spur of the moment and only used the Showcase to solidify in her mind. It took a while to build to, but Serena's chosen a dream, and not on impulse. All that's left for her is sticking with it.

Jessie clearly intends to become a Performer.

Jessie cares for Pumpkaboo.

Serena, Fennekin and Pancham, working together towards their dream.

Naturally, of course, TRio intervenes, and shenanigans ensue, with confirmation that Jessie will, indeed, be a rival to Serena in the upcoming world of Showcases. It also shows how much, by this point, Jessie has really started to care for her Pumpkaboo, getting angry at her treatment and upset at her precious Pokémon being hurt. The two are close, and it will play further, later in the series. For now, though, the focus remains on Serena, who catches Pancham and decides to go fully forward with her decided dream and passion, just with a new partner! It's the first step on a journey that will radically change her character from the indecisive, noncommittal mess that she was when she got too hasty and left her home on an impulse.

Clemont's own dream from when he was a child,
with his soon-to-be Pokémon.

So, with all that done, we move forward towards a new location, with a focus on a different character: Clemont! Been a while since we had an episode focused on him. Now, the first thing that's nice about this episode is that we get more on Clemont pre-series: he's a bona fide genius, having graduated from a prestigious school! What's more, we get to see his successes in inventing. We'd seen it before with Clembot, but this is the first time we get to truly see it benefiting more than himself, pushing the envelope of his dream to make the world better for everyone. It's a show that Clemont does have the ability to make more than exploding inventions, and he can do things that he can be proud of.

Regardless, what truly takes precedence in this episode is the story regarding Clemont and Luxio. Now, before I discuss this, Luxio is my least favorite of Clemont's Pokémon. As I'm about to say, it had a great setup, but slowly had very little personality other than being Clemont's powerhouse, so I sort of consider him a bit failed there.

Clemont as a child: meek and without confidence

Clemont has grown into someone confident and caring,
willing to take risks

In any case, what Luxio really does is show Clemont's development so far. For one thing, it's really rare to develop a catch in flashback form rather than in the present, so that was kind of cool and unique. But another thing that can be taken from this moment is just how much Clemont's lack of confidence cost him in the past. Back then, when Luxio was Shinx, he couldn't stand up for himself, and instead of gaining a partner that day, Shinx felt Clemont had abandoned him. That changes in the present, when Clemont adds in a bit of Ash's recklessness to take a hit on himself in order to protect the one Pokémon he accidentally abandoned. It's a display that Clemont is becoming stronger and more confident, eventually leading to a capture of Luxio. Really, a great comparison character episode.

The next episode is less so, aiming more towards worthless. Yeah, it shows Bonnie helping to take care of a Pokémon, but is largely uneventful in the grand scheme of things, but at least Bonnie isn't bratty in the episode; she's the most level-headed of them all.

With that, the action shifts once more.

The Strongest Mega Returns

Stepping away from Ash and the gang, we return to Alain and Mairin, now arriving in the Hoenn region (yes, of course this was blatant advertisement for ORAS). What kickstarted all of this was the fact that some ancient document was found here, hinting at the origins of Mega Evolution. The episode wastes no time in reminding us of their characters, either: Mairin is klutzy, and Alain is stoic. Alain's also a little over-protective of Mairin, as shown when a man shows up to help Mairin and he butts in. Though, for Alain, it proves to be fortuitous as he's able to enter battle against a Mega Evolution user, and get some of that energy.

Alain gathers Mega Evolution energy.

Alain has the battle chops to deal with a Champion.

Lysandre is introduced as Alain's boss.

Now, this battle does deserve some mention. As far as battles go it's fast-paced, but what's more important is that it's a battle against a Champion. Yes, because the battler is none other than Steven Stone. Alain has the battle chops to fight on par with a Champion. He's clearly gotten stronger, but not strong enough for that. What's more, his boss, who interrupts the battle, may be just as strong without a Mega. Who is his boss? Lysandre of Lysandre Labs. Remember those hints from the first Special? Yeah, the story is now slowly being connected in that Team Flare is working behind the scenes rather than being outright antagonistic. Drop all notions of the plot not happening in XY now, please.

The lighting and dialogue that shows Alain and Lysandre,
and the reasons they both headed down their paths.

What follows is an interesting look into Alain and Lysandre's relationship. For one thing, the lighting should inform everything about how secretive and ominous this man is, but Alain still listens to his words: he needs to become the greatest to protect the things he cares about. It's Lysandre who sets Alain on his soul-consuming journey. We do see, however, that Alain does all of this from a state of care for people. He wants to protect Professor Sycamore, and later is very protective of Mairin to the point of harming himself. It's a recurring self-destructive pattern that will only get worse in the future. On the flip side, we get an insight into Lysandre as well: "History has proven people will use power for evil purposes". Now, it's healthy irony, yes, but it also shows why Lysandre is doing...whatever he's doing. Something happened to make him believe people will always use things for the wrong reasons. To that extent, it's a scene that sets both of these characters up for what is a tragic fall.

The Megalith reacts to Keystones, seeking its power to activate.

Alain is willing to protect Mairin...
Even if it means hurting himself.

The Megalith disappears on its own, showing its sentience.

Following this, the group, including Champion Steven, arrive at the excavation site, and using their Keystones, open a path to an artifact known as the Megalith, the root of Mega Evolution, tied to its energy. At this moment, it's unclear what it is or what they want with it, but what does happen is that it summons Rayquaza, who tries to nuke the place, and nearly destroys all of them. The importance of this scene is really showing how much Alain cares about Mairin, rushing directly to save her, but being reckless about it all (hello foil to Ash). Yet, in the end, the true tidbit of this scene that's important is the disappearance of the Megalith on its own, and its tie to Keystones. This thing, with no one realizing it, is sentient. It can think and is drawn to the power of Mega Evolution...

And somewhere in the depths of Hoenn, Groudon and Kyogre awaken...

The Beginning of Serena's Path

Enter Nini, a new (and useless) rival for Serena.

With Alain and Mairin's story concluded for the moment, we return to Ash and the gang, where they meet an up and coming Pokémon Performer by the name of Nini. Just so you know, she's like the Trevor of the Performing world. Still, she does give something to this episode. For one thing, we finally get to see what Serena is putting together when it comes to performing, which given her lines in XY 49, we know that she's definitely training hard at this new dream of hers, instead of just getting bored with it. Combined with Nini's own performance and Jessie's later blustering in the episode, you kind of start getting an idea of what the Showcase landscape is looking like.

Pancham and Chespin actually can work together!

However, this episode is just as much about Serena and a new rival of hers as it is about Pancham and Chespin. Obviously, XY 47 really kicked off their rivalry between each other, and this just ratchets it up with predictable results. At the very least, it shows that they can work together and support each other when the chips are down, no matter their bickering (which is really only because they're similar to each other). It's a nice episode to set the stage for Serena's upcoming career choice.

Hawlucha gets some focus, showing he isn't all stoicism

The following episode is another filler, but of course, I like it because we have Hawlucha focus. Double the Hawlucha focus, in fact. We get a seriously great Hawlucha vs. Hawlucha battle here. Though that's mere entertainment factor here, even if it gives a bit of development for Hawlucha, showing him as more than the stoic fighter of Ash's team. He gets stage fright and has doubts as much as the next Pokémon, but Ash is fully prepared to work hands-on with him to get over those. So, when it comes to Hawlucha development, A+. Anything else...well, it's filler.

Sanpei returns! With a Greninja!

The next one, though, sees the return of resident ninja Sanpei! That's right! He wasn't just a Character of the Day! Though, as said in my previous part, his first episode all but stated outright that he would be returning. This time, he's on a mission from his teacher while being pursued by a masked man. Oh, and his Frogadier has evolved into a Greninja. There's no training for special moves this time around, but instead we have an adventure trying to deliver a secret scroll to a mansion, all while the characters are being hunted. It's just what you'd expect for an action-piece story.

Pokémon history is made as Froakie evolves into Frogadier.

Most of the story of this episode is really building towards the end battle. We do have a TRio battle, but their masked pursuer helps make short work of them (which really makes it obvious just who's pursuing them). The key point of this episode, though, is what happens near the end. It's a moment in history for Pokémon as a whole: Froakie evolves. For the first time, one of Ash's Water starters evolves. Hell, it's the first Water type evolution for Ash since Kingler! What's more, he learns Aerial Ace, granting him the third move in his arsenal. Now, what's interesting to comment about this evolution is that it is the first in a very long line of Ash's Pokémon evolving to protect either him or a fellow member of his team. It really niggles its way into that teamwork aspect again.

Ash is considered an exception in interference.
Could be a hint for the future. Or just nothing, depending on your view.

In the end, of course, Frogadier proves his worth in defeating the masked man, who, by the way, is Sanpei's teacher (obvious). There's also the interesting note that Ash was an exception to those "interfering" with Sanpei's quest. It could leave some lingering questions hanging out there: is it because he had a Froakie, which is obviously well-respected in the ninja community? Or could it have something to do with a legend there? Perhaps Saizo sensed something about Ash and Froakie...? The answer will forever remain unclear, but it's still some food for thought.

Grace knows her daughter well, but also underestimates her:
From believing she's still the same Serena to knowing she
gives up when she's bored.
That changes here.

Finally, to close off this part, we have the episode that truly begins to define Serena's dream. This is almost the second most important thing in setting Serena on that path beyond just choosing said dream. Why so? Because it directly involves her mother. Grace shows up at a Skiddo ranch, outright asking if Serena has practiced her riding. This is what she wanted Serena to be, and the reason is very quickly revealed, if we didn't know already (which we did if you've been paying attention): Serena always quit at anything that got too hard or boring. She would always just stop, so Grace forced her into something she hated because it was at least something. It was clearly so bad that Grace even believed Serena couldn't find a drive for anything, even cooking!

Serena holds low self-confidence, preventing things from
going well and allowing her to tell her mother her dream

It's for this very same reason that Serena deals with not wanting to disappoint her mother by becoming a Performer, and wants to become skilled enough in order to tell her and not be dismissed for choosing it. This kind of struggle is what leads to things in her performances not working out for her either, At this moment, Serena finally begins to truly prescribe to 's words: "Never give up until the very end".

Serena gains confidence from Ash's words to never give up.

Serena has the skills to be a racer, as her mother sees,
but it isn't her dream.

Serena accepts that she left to avoid being a racer,
but now that she has a dream, she won't give up!

For the first time, Serena is determined to see her dream through to the end, to the point that when her mother requests her to continue racing, Serena decides to race her for her own future. This is key and important because not only does it show that Serena has the drive to continue on her path as a Performer, beating her mother in the race and not giving up, but it also shows that while she has the skills of a rider, she's chosen to become a Performer. This is her dream, and she won't let go of it so easily. She's accepted that she left home in a haste just to get away from what she has the skills to do in Rhyhorn Racing, but now that she's found her passion, she'll cling to it as much as she can.

Serena earns her mother's blessing.

What's more, she finally earns her mother's acceptance and support in this area, even being pointed towards Coumarine City and her first Showcase to take place there. At long last, Serena's true journey as a Performer is about to begin, and the road to Coumarine City becomes ever clearer!

It is that road we'll be taking in Part 4: The End of One Journey, The Beginning of Another.

Dare to Be Silly,
Epicocity