Review of the Series: Pokémon XY Part 4: The End of One Journey, The Beginning of Another

Hello again and welcome to another part of my XY review series! Once again, I hope you've been finding it very enjoyable, seeing the way I analyze the series and its writing. I hope to continue that with this part, as well.

Last time, we covered quite the weight of material, from the Korrina arc to the Summer Camp and beyond, setting Serena on her dream and bringing Ash close to his fourth Gym Badge. The road to Coumarine City now stretches onward, and we'll be dealing with that and a long-awaited conclusion to a rivalry waiting in Lumiose this time. If everyone's prepared, read on!

The Malamar Strike Back

The Malamar species isn't inherently chaotic, as can be seen here.

To start this chapter of the journey, we go with a little darker and plot-focused episode. Naturally, TRio continues to pursue the twerps, but both groups soon run across a Malamar. The memories of their last encounter with the rather evil Malamar is clearly still fresh in their minds, given the reaction of all of the main characters. However, what's great about the scene that follows is that is shows not all Malamar are pure evil. Here we see a bunch living in harmony with other Pokémon. They're not purely chaotic.

The Malamar return!

Inkay's rage at James having been controlled in XY 19.

This is especially so when said evil Malamar has returned in full force with two companions, and they're just as nasty as ever, about to enact their evil plan. On their trail is the Officer Jenny from last time (about the most useful one), who has an idea of what their plan is: create the world to their own liking. It's dastardly, and a plan they can certainly carry out, going as far as capturing all of the characters but Clemont, James, Meowth and Inkay, who's furious towards the Malamar.

This bond is what forms the basis of this awesome episode.

This is where the episode shines. That we have what are essentially the less-focused characters left as the only ones to act is an awesome thing, especially when it comes to showcasing the bond formed between James and Inkay. It's this relationship that forms the crux of the episode, with Inkay wanting to avenge James, while James clearly adores Inkay, even keeping a stock of croissants on hand. Last time was Ash and Pikachu, but this is James and Inkay and its glorious that it is this relationship that stops the Malamar cold because they're able to spur the peaceful Malamar into action.

In terms of connectivity, the episode offers little, but when it comes to character development and relationships, this is bar none the best episode for TRio in a long time. That alone makes it one worth watching. Now, of course, the episode ends with a light cliffhanger that the Malamar will return...but they don't. Granting, the episode also feels like it could end there, but it would have been cool if they'd had the time to give them a return episode. As it stands though, this is still a most enjoyable episode, and one worth talking about.

Getta BanBan

The new OP hints at the Gym Battles to come.

A new character emerges, following after Ash...

I'd like to take a quick moment before the next section to talk about the new opening that starts with this set of episodes. Why? Because unlike Volt and Mega Volt, this opening really gives some small tidbits and hints for what's to come in the story. I'll tackle it again in Part 5, but for now, I just want to talk about what can be gleaned from it.

For one thing, it plays very heavily on the fact that the ultimate settling match with Clemont is about to happen, and that this opening will carry us through the seventh Gym Battle. Likewise, we know Serena is about to start her Performance career, and that Ash will catch a Goomy and it's going to be evolving very quickly. However, the one aspect I want to give the most attention to is that of the young boy with a Treecko that is following in Ash's footsteps. This is a hint at an upcoming rival that will be taking after Ash, and it's a little hint that the end of the rivalry with Clemont will open the door to another...

The Weakest Dragon

Goomy: Emotional character arc, but rushed as hell

Continuing on the road to Coumarine City, the gang is excited for their Gym Battle and Showcase there (to a degree with the trek), when Ash is suddenly hit in the head by a big blob. This blob is Goomy, the weakest Dragon type, and this is the start of his arc. Before I dive into talking about these first two episodes that start his arc, I want to clarify something: I believe the Goomy arc is a good arc...but it is rushed. Now, I understand why it happened this way and everything, but it still would have been a bit better if Goomy wasn't rushed through so many things in so little time. Perhaps it was meant to be the manifestation of Bide in building up power that quickly exploded into its ultimate strength, but still. Either way, despite the rushing, what we get is a very well-done, well-foreshadowed and enjoyable character arc that even has applications late in the series.

Goomy is scared as all get out of little Dedenne...

...and Ariados.
Something clearly happened.

So, into Goomy, who truly is weak to the point that hitting Bonnie feels like a breeze, and he's scared of Dedenne. Yes, Dedenne. What's weird, of course, is that the response is completely disproportionate to what should be natural, and it hints that there is a deep-seated fear of Fairy types for a very good reason. In fact, Clemont makes an upgrade to one of his past inventions (from XY 11) in order to see just what's going on inside Goomy's head. There's a clear fear of Ariados, battling that hurts others and Fairy types, but we just get snippets. There's certainly something deeper in there, though.

Ash recognizing Goomy's strength and purpose,
bringing him along to get stronger.

What makes the difference in this episode, though, is Ash and Pikachu. From the beginning, Goomy is stated to be similar to Ash in a way, and when he and Pikachu are captured by TRio, Goomy begins to be inspired in the same way Serena and Clemont have been. He admires Pikachu's strength from his own weakness and helplessness, yet when push comes to shove, he becomes willing to protect the important things to him and prove he has strength all along. This is a hint of the development Goomy will receive, and the beginning of him breaking out of that fear of Fairy types and battling. However, he's still soft (literally and figuratively) and Ash shows his compassion in understanding that, promising to help him become strong enough to protect his friends before capturing him in the kindest way possible.

Goomy has, essentially, PTSD of what occurred in his home.
It forces him to flee from battle.

However, Goomy's story isn't done for now at all! He still has this intense fear of poor Dedenne, and when another scheme of TRio's separates the group, Goomy is in a group with Serena, Bonnie and Dedenne. This episode works on a few levels now. For one thing, we see Serena struggle against TRio with her new capture but continues to put up a fight, even being aided by Bonnie, but what really takes precedence is that Goomy clearly has some form of PTSD with the way he reacts to the battle going on. To see his friends get hurt scares him, because he knows he's too weak to stop it, and when it gets too much, he runs, just like he must have done from what made him have these issues in the first place.

Dedenne protects Goomy...

...and Goomy finds the strength to protect Dedenne in turn,
in spite of his fear.

It's this weakness that makes him helpless when TRio resurfaces later in the episode (having been thoroughly thrashed by Serena and Bonnie). Thankfully, Dedenne comes to the rescue in his most active role in the series, and showing that not all Fairy types are harmful or scary, but protective, inspires Goomy to action, just like before. Bit by bit, Goomy begins to gain the strength needed to protect those that matter most, gaining courage from the tiny Dedenne standing up for him. It's this that causes a great friendship between them and spurs Goomy on in his goal to become strong enough to defend those in need. It helps that the others all support him, guided there by that callback to Pikachu and Dedenne communicating with each other via electricity.

Battles and Showcases in Coumarine City

The events in Coumarine City at last begin!

With Goomy over his fear of Dedenne, the quartet arrives in Coumarine City. Finally! Ash is excited for his Gym Battle, and Serena for her Showcase, but as usual, TRio is lurking on the scene...sigh...But, at the very least, it does get the introductions and characterizations of our newest Gym Leader out of the way. The basic plot of the episode in and of itself is actually pretty simplistic, with a Vanillite having been separated from its family, cared for in the Pokémon Center and then being kidnapped to start a blizzard in the town.

An important saying from Ramos, both for the past and future
of the series.

What's gained from it is a little more substantial than the plot itself. For one, meeting Ramos shows him to be the stereotypical wise and patient Gym Leader, no doubt helped by Gogoat, who can read his trainer's intentions. He's also shown to be quite capable on the battlefield as his title would suggest. But more than that are the words he shares with Ash: "Taking a detour is necessary sometimes". It's not about blindly charging ahead, but finding a different way around an issue. Like helping a friend in reaching her own goal, or not just about being stronger. We'll discuss this much later (in Part 7), but it's a point that needs to be mentioned now.

Serena's prophetic dream of tripping. More later.

In any case, with the crisis in Coumarine city averted, attention turns to the battle with Ramos. At the start of that we have a, funnily enough, prophetic dream from Serena, but we'll discuss more about her fears of failing a Showcase later. Instead, this episode focuses on Ash. In particular, the first part of the episode showcases how much he still has to learn: like Korrina, he's hasty in battling and getting what he's going after, charging straight ahead at what's in front of him. In this case, it's the Gym Badge. Actually, Ramos' words to Ash this episode are probably the most important words and ultimate piece of foreshadowing when it comes to Ash's character arc this entire series. I'll talk about that after we talk the battle.

Frogadier takes the big win this time (with ninja sensing skills to boot),
and it's important that he does so.

When it comes to the Gym Battle, it's admittedly my least favorite. Part of it is because it's more focused on the little lesson that Ash tries to learn, but also because it's just not as intense as other battles. Fletchinder has a great showing against Jumpluff, to be sure, but Hawlucha's loss to a Weepinbell makes me sad. The only plus there is how gutsy he is, dealing with poison and still nailing the Grass type a few times. Poison has always been Ash's weak point when it came to status effects, and it shows in this battle. Not with Frogadier, though, the unmitigated ace of this battle, who blocks the poison and uses his developing ninja senses to take down Gogoat in a storm of leaves. Supported by Pikachu on the field and Goomy up above, watching his team members and their strength, firming up his resolve and learning from his comrades, it's just as much a team victory as usual.

These words and this fight are some of the most important said
for Ash's continued development.

Ash believes in his Pokémon, but it's not just a one-way street.

Frogadier's abilities evolve as a battle progresses;
it makes sense for later.

It is with Frogadier and Ramos' lesson that the true value of this episode lies in the overall scheme of XY, however. For one, it is extremely important that Ramos' words of "If you only focus on what's in front of you, you'll lose sight of the important things" are applied towards Ash and Frogadier. This is exactly what happens to them later on. They focus so hard on getting stronger, they can't figure out their problem. Ramos also stresses this about there needing to be an equal amount of belief between trainers and Pokémon; it's not just one making the result of a battle, but both together. Ash, of course, knows he believes in his Pokémon, but he still takes all of the blame of a battle on himself, which causes a disconnect. Like Korrina, it stresses the underlying issue Ash is having, even if it isn't hurting him just yet: he's taking all of the blame on himself for a failed battle, rather than sharing the blame as a partnership. He believes in his Pokémon, but what about the other way around? Finally, a very important statement is made by Clemont that Frogadier's moves are evolving during battle. It's a small mention, but a show that as time goes on, Frogadier (and Greninja) is able to pull out insane moves. That's who he is as a Pokémon.

A festival to celebrate trainers and Pokémon!

Following the Gym Battle, Serena is ready to take part in her Showcase, registering and everything for it. However, given that there's time before it's to begin, instead the gang decides to take part in a festival at the Vow Tree, as indicated by Ramos: a time to celebrate the bonds of people and Pokémon. Naturally, each of the quartet has their own way to do this, and in order to do so, Ash and Serena head off together without their own Pokémon. Bonnie takes care of them instead, as she's been doing, showing them as almost this little family. Clemont just works on his own.

Serena the shrinking violet, expressing her internal crush...
but failing horribly.

It is a date...just a really, really bad one.

Serena offers the best advice for Ash's gift, putting things in play.

Now, of course, the Japanese title for this episode, I'm sure, caused many a people to call it a "bait" title, considering it asks if this is Ash and Serena's first date. By all rights, though...it is a date. They go together and run around town. It's just a really bad date, given how little Ash cares about Serena throughout. There's also the fact of how Serena tries to grab his hand but utterly fails. Keep both of these in mind for much, much later. In the end, though, Ash is unable to come up with a present until Serena reminds him that his Pokémon are just like him, and would love any gift he gave them. Despite having gotten his own gift, this inspires Ash, and he runs off. There's even a little continuity gag in that Ash is unable to catch a Dunsparce!

Serena's mother shows her full support in Serena's Performer career.

Ash gives a gift without prompting, and is nervous to do so!

Naturally, TRio intervenes soon after, but Ash and the others make quick work of them and we get to the important bit of the episode. Everyone gives their gift to their Pokémon (even TRio!) and they naturally love the thoughtful gifts that express their personalities. Serena even gets a dress from her mother! This is important, as XY 53 proved, because it's Grace believing in her daughter and supporting her in her dream. Then, as we reach the end, Ash gives a gift to Serena: the ribbon from earlier. Ignoring the Amourshipping side of myself, this is still big character development from Ash: for the first time, he gives a gift without prompting from someone else and for nothing other than thanks. It's a sweet moment, but something with a huge impact on Serena.

Shauna's already completed a Showcase.
It hints that she's a step ahead of Serena...for now.

Palermo: disillusioned and believing nothing can match up to the past.

In the next episode, though, the Showcases finally begin in earnest! For one thing, Shauna arrives back on the scene and reveals she's already taken part in a Showcase. It's a subtle hint at the fact that Shauna, for the moment, is ahead of Serena and the goal that Serena must catch up to before she can think of beating Aria. It makes the result more obvious, too. Shortly after the girls are excited to take part in the Showcase, we're introduced to another new character in the form of the crotchety Palermo. We don't know a lot about her, other than the fact she's clearly disillusioned, believing there could never be another Performer like Aria, making her bored at the proceedings.

Serena's utterly humiliating loss,
which is entirely her own fault.

Regardless, we soon head into to bulk of the Showcase, which starts out with a fashion show, essentially, Shauna and Jessie being in the first round. Naturally, Jessie loses and is filled with rage, burning with that same rage to prove Kalos wrong! It's a contrast to the small development she'll receive. Then we have Serena, clearly nervous as all get out, on that usual precipice: is the Showcase going to be too hard for her, forcing her to give up? Well, in any case, her prophetic dream from XY 58 soon proves true as she fails to cut Fennekin's ribbon and her beloved Pokémon trips, causing a disastrous and humiliating loss right in front of everyone.

Serena chooses to not give up, and grows up in the process,
embarking on a new beginning for her character.

Palermo takes a surprising interest after seeing Serena on the docks.

This is what turns into the ultimate test for Serena. Yes, she puts on a brave face, even congratulating Shauna on her win of the Showcase, but deep inside there's that gnawing despair. A wall has appeared, and like before, there's the question of Serena giving up or not. It was her fault Fennekin tripped and her fault she lost, and she can't know if she's good enough...yet in that moment, she decides to grow up, because she's a Performer, and she can't give up. As a result, she cuts her hair with that resolve, throwing away her old indecisive and quitting self. It's an act that Palermo sees, encouraging herself that perhaps there is hope for the world of performing after all.

Another defining moment in Pokémon history!
Serena gets a complete design change in the middle of a series!

As the events of Coumarine come to a close, though, yet another move in Pokémon history is made: Serena gets a complete overhaul in her design change! Gone is her long hair and red and black, replaced with pink...and the blue ribbon Ash gave her. It's a symbol of his kindness and inspiration; one that Ash is happy to see her wearing. Serena's been born anew, and with that, she leads the others on their road back to Lumiose City.

The final clash between Ash and Clemont is about to begin.

Returning to Lumiose City

Clemont explains that Goomy is about to learn a new move

In order to get there, the group is required to trek across the Lumiose Badlands, a harsh and forgiving wasteland. Even in the oasis on the way there, a Grumpig has taken over, making it harsh there as well. For our main characters, though, good things are on their way. Particularly, Goomy seems to be about to learn a new move, and he's training hard to do it! Taking hits from Pikachu is no joke! It's really a show that Goomy is trying to get as strong as he can, and is close to achieving the next level of strength. Before long, though, a Spoink interrupts and brings these strong trainers to its home with the tyrannical Grumpig.

Goomy's anger at a place subjected to tyranny,
hinting more at his own past.

In and of itself, the story of the episode devolves into a pretty basic TRio plot from behind the scenes (I could call it foreshadowing, but it's TRio, so I won't) though we do have some important stuff. For one, we once more get that flash of Goomy's anger and desire to grow stronger. In particular, he doesn't like seeing other Pokémon under this tyrannical rule, a hint at what occurred in his life, and it is that sort of thing that begins to lead towards what happens to him. The twerps end up captured, alongside Pikachu, but both Goomy and Dedenne, now the best of friends, break out and into a battle with Grumpig where Dedenne gets thrashed around.

Goomy evolves into Sliggoo in order to protect his friends!

Seeing his friend in danger spurs Goomy into action, battling Grumpig with Bide, but it is when Ash puts himself in danger, Goomy gains the willpower to truly act. He evolves into Sliggoo and learns Dragon Breath. Yes, this is fast, considering he was caught only six episodes ago, but at the same time, it makes some sense: in order to deal with the challenge before him, Goomy matures and decides to protect the ones that matter to him, giving him that evolution. With that new power, Sliggoo blasts away Grumpig and TRio and the oasis is saved, giving Ash new strength on his team as well.

Clemont believes he isn't worthy of giving Ash a proper challenge.

Ash always puts himself through hell for his Pokémon...

It's this strength that gives rise to more doubts in Clemont in the next episode: Ash has made strides and wants to keep his promise to Clemont, but the inventor isn't so sure he's done the same. It's a distraction to him that continues even when they arrive at the Kalos Power Plant. Of course, TRio has a plan in motion there to control Electric types, including Pikachu, Dedenne and Luxio. What follows is a base plot where the twerps sneak in, find their controlled Pokémon and attempt to snap them out of it. Ash puts himself through hell, like always, to do so for Pikachu and Clemont truly realizes how much he's fallen behind.

Lumiose City in chaos, a rather recurring thing.

Clemont finally stands up to the plate, showing what Ash has given him.

Clemont departs the group to grow stronger,
all so Ash could have the Gym Battle from him that he deserves.

While all this is going on, TRio is nearly sending Lumiose into chaos (this seems to be recurring at this point...huh...hint, perhaps?). In any case, Ash fails to break through to Pikachu, despite the strain, and Clemont once more picks himself up. Like with Luxio back at his old school, Clemont pushes himself through the pain, willing himself to grow stronger and be more like Ash. This is the direct line of his character that has been seeing itself through, and that willpower manifests into an evolution for Luxio, allowing them to put an end to TRio's plans. However, more important than even the evolution into Luxray is Clemont's decision at the end: he can't grow strong enough to face Ash if he's always with Ash. So, in another unprecedented move, Clemont leaves the group to get stronger on his own, all to make it worth it for Ash. This is a show of his character development: he's willing to stand on his own, showing his confidence, while wanting to still be better in a different way. It builds the tension for the upcoming Gym Battle.

Jessie chooses love over evil, but...

With Clemont having departed from the group, Ash, Serena and Bonnie set off together, and in the next episode...fight TRio. Okay, they're a bit overused right now. But! This episode is quite possibly one of their best. I'll admit, I'm a sucker for episodes of TRio when it's not about them being the bad guys. In this case, the episode details Jessie's struggle of choosing evil or love. What's important is that the episode makes two clear statements about this, ones that are ironically echoed for Serena at the end of the series: Jessie chooses love, but at the end of the day, she also knows what's most important to her. In this case, it's James and Meowth. Wobbuffet makes the same decision; he falls in love with that female Wobbuffet, but he loves Jessie more.

...her true love is with her friends.

Serena loves the idea of love.
Three guesses as to why.

Bunnelby learns a new move! To be revealed later.

It's really an entertaining episode that shows TRio at their best. Perhaps because it focuses on Jessie in a different light, seeing her smitten with a doctor that saves her from the river. Or maybe it's that it shows that Serena loves the idea of love in her willingness to help Jessie, considering what her own feelings have clearly begun to move towards after Coumarine. But really, for me, it's that in the end, TRio knows it's the best when they're together, even if they're willing to sacrifice their family so one of their own can be happy. That feeling will be shown later with Jessie's affections towards Pumpkaboo (kind of...we all know how vain Jessie can be), but it forms the emotional crux of the episode as they work with the twerps to take down a hunter. It's effective, and though filler, enjoyable filler nonetheless. Though we did get Bunnelby mastering a new, mysterious move and Clembot being unable to process Ash's battling style.

Shauna, like successful Performers, has started to become famous.

Serena loses her cool; a rather inelegant act.
It shows how much she has to learn.

Next episode isn't, however, and gives another focus to Serena, slowly taking the development towards herself and away from Clemont as his own development begins to cap. This episode is probably, and funnily enough, Serena's most important episode when it comes to her future path and disposition. To start with, though, we see that Shauna has become a little famous from her win, at least enough to be featured on television. It's a key point to tell the audience that Showcases are decided on public knowledge and fame, which plays a key role later in the series. However, the bulk of the episode kicks off when Pancham and Fennekin can't get their act together, beginning to argue with one another and making Serena lose her cool. What's nice about this is that neither side is depicted as right: Pancham and Fennekin shouldn't have been arguing, but Serena shouldn't have yelled at them and stormed off. She still has a lot to learn.

Aria's encouragement towards the Performer that wants to be like her. 

The one piece of advice that informs Serena's attitude through
the remaining series, and imparts her later dream.

The person she learns that from is none other than a young woman called Aria...na. Ariana. (Paper-thin disguise here.) Here, Serena learns two important things: not everything works on the first try, and a Performer must always smile. Seeing Serena's smile, Ariana tells her that she has a smile that can make everyone happy. This one thing sets Serena on her path later in in the series for what she wishes to do, and helps her to understand that no matter what wall will present itself before her, she needs to not let it break her or poorly affect her attitude. She needs to keep smiling for her Pokémon, trusting in them.

Linking feelings together have helped Fennekin to evolve.
Like always, a point with multiple applications.

That trust is put to the test in a battle against Ariana, where Serena remembers what Ash always tells her about trusting in her Pokémon, because they're working together. (Ironically, it's something Ash knows and trusts in right now, but gets distorted the more he takes his later failures on to himself, like a certain other character; he's just not failing right now.) From that trust, and pushing herself to smile, Fennekin evolves from their linked hearts...and the battle ends. It's a long line of Serena's battles not having a conclusion, but then, they don't need to. Serena got what she needed to from it: she realized she needed to smile and not lose her cool when things aren't going right (personal growth over battle growth here). The battle is irrelevant, and not what Showcases are about, anyway. With her own resolve renewed yet again, Serena realizes she was helped by none other than Aria, and with a lightened heart, sets off with the others yet again.

Enter the new trainer from the opening:
he has some skill, and learns quickly, which should be kept in mind.

However! This isn't the only thing to mention in this episode. We actually have a rather important scene with Clemont, as he defeats a young trainer and his Treecko. Yes, the same trainer from the opening that is following after Ash. Right away, he's shown to have some skill as a trainer, his Treecko able to take hits from Clemont's ace, Luxray, while being praised, but still has some ways to go. He's eager to learn, though, and it's a small hint that he'll be making leaps and bounds in the future; he's already got the chops and aptitude for it. This one scene becomes an important one that begins to set Ash's entire character development on a spiraling path, but we'll be discussing this quite a bit later.

For now, the episode once more shifts as a crisis on other lands begins to brew...

The Strongest Mega Crisis

With Ash and the others on the road to Lumiose, Alain and Mairin are still in Hoenn, where a crisis is beginning to brew, started from the events of the last special. What's important to note in this case is that this special is less about the characters and more about the intense action focus that this part has. The whole thing almost feels like the anime staff trying to make it up to us for the lackluster Magma/Aqua climax back in AG; like this is the true version of it. It's really quite a spectacle, and one of the best moments in the series up to this point. It does begin the breakdown process of Alain and Mairin's characters, however.

Mairin, questioning one of Alain's flaws.

The Megalith both seeks and draws,
setting in motion the events now and into the future.

Alain's character begins to spiral, despite Mairin's insistence.

To begin the special, the duo arrives at the Devon Corporation, with Mairin being excited as usual and Alain being stoic. Mairin even calls him out on this, though he doesn't respond to it. Mostly because there's a serious issue brewing. The Megalith is reappearing, and drawn to it are Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. Here is another hint of the Megalith drawn to and drawing energy. In particular, it is a font of Mega Evolution energy. Seeing this, Lysandre sends Alain to intercept and Steven goes with him. What's markedly important about this scene is Mairin begging Alain not to go. Here we see the divergence of their characters: Alain pushes Mairin aside, telling her to stay away, or rather, go back home. It's his go-to method for protection, even if it hurts others.

The armor piercing question.

The big question asked here, though, is Mairin's of "To become the strongest, how far do you have to go?" It's a lingering question, and one with long term effects that Alain doesn't realize yet.

Mairin does her part in the crisis.

Lysandre captures the Megalith for his purposes.

In any case, the following leads to a major action sequence of Mega Charizard and Mega Metagross against Primal Groudon and Kyogre. It's impressive, the way Charizard can deal with those legends...at least for a time. Charizard falls in the battle, and Alain being Alain, shows his recklessness and want to take everything on to himself in trying to rescue his Pokémon. It requires Mairin rescuing him, though, showing how this is a growing fault of his (like Ash). Yet as Mega Rayquaza appears to subdue the two legendaries, Lysandre makes a move in snatching the megalith for his own plans...whatever they may be.

Alain has come to care for Mairin.

Professor Sycamore sees Alain on TV.

Alain leaves Mairin behind to "protect" her.

Events have nearly reached their perfect place
for Lysandre's plans.

With the sun setting (or rising?), Alain thanks Mairin, proving how protective he is of her, to the point of leaving her behind in Hoenn to do so. Not that Mairin is one to listen, following straight after with Steven. In Kalos, Sycamore notes the presence of Alain, while said young man aims to grow stronger and stronger while Lysandre's plans have taken a giant leap forward.

As said, it's mostly plot-related right now, with only shades of the characters' falls coming out, mostly from where they care about the other. Yet what matters the most is that it sets up the portents of what is to come in the story, even if that continuation won't be coming for quite some time...

A Rivalry Concluded

Tierno is clearly indicated to be a Kalos League rival.

Back with Ash, Serena and Bonnie, however, they're quickly checking up on Clemont before making their way to the final stretch before Lumiose City. On their way there, they run into Tierno, who's surprised at Clemont being a Gym Leader, but has won the Voltage Badge from Clembot. It's an obvious hint that Tierno is a rival and will be appearing in the Kalos League when that time comes...but at the same time, another hint that he's truly below Ash...well, assuming Ash can defeat Clemont (who's stronger than Clembot). The two agree to battle, but as usual, TRio intervenes, this time with an automated machine to grab Pikachu. They're improving, and getting trickier. They still screw up, though, napping Tierno's Pokémon and Sliggoo, who shows more determination to protect his friends than ever.

Sliggoo fears fire, but with determination, evolves
into Goodra to protect those that matter to him.

By all rights, this episode can be broken down into two key points. The first of these is Sliggoo. In this episode, we once more run through the gamut of emotions for this Pokémon. He leaps into action to save Pikachu. He freaks out over the fire later in the episode, nearly crippled by his fear. Yet, there's also this moment where he shows the most determination in breaking down a boulder to get to Pikachu and protect him. As has been a consistent theme through XY, the want to protect what matters is brought up, manifesting in Sliggoo evolving into Goodra by producing a massive rainstorm and learning Dragon Pulse. Again, a bit rushed, but no less effective in terms of storytelling.

Ash breaks Tierno's rhythm, showing how far he is above him.

The second point is the subsequent battle with Tierno. Before, Ash couldn't break Tierno's rhythm; not without the help of Clemont and Serena. This time, however, he's ultimately able to do it easily. This marks the true beginning of Ash's win streak throughout the XY saga. Pikachu and Goodra are able to easily overpower Wartortle and Raichu, placing Ash a notch above Tierno. If you're wondering why Ash isn't exhibiting the problems Alain's started to, this is the reason why, really. There's no need when he's winning. And with that, the rivals part ways.

At long last, the trio arrives in Lumiose City.

Clembot receives development to endear him as a character.

The episode that sees their arrival in Lumiose, admittedly, is a bit fillerish. While we do have the return of Alexa and Blaziken Mask, the real point of the episode is endearing Clembot as a character to us. We haven't spent a lot of time with him as a character, and this is the episode that does it, with the gang trying to clear his name from a number of crimes (along with proving the most useless Officer Jenny wrong). You care about his character a little here, making certain events later have more impact.

Clemont's feelings regarding science are on full display.

The recurring theme of fighting together pops up yet again.

Beyond that, this episode really establishes Clemont more as a character. He's grown a lot stronger, and Clembot's grown stronger with him. They work together with their Pokémon, after all (see that cropping up again; still not an issue from Ash's win streak). It also shows how sickened Clemont is when people use science to do evil. Again, crops up later. By all rights, it's a character establishment episode for Clemont and Clembot both, getting things ready for the future and setting up for what should be the most hype Gym Battle in the series thus far.

Ash vs. Clemont begins!

And boy does it deliver!

The family's all watching.

This is a battle that has been built up to as a match, and Ash has no shortage of confidence. Nor does Clemont. He realizes that Ash is impulsive in battle, so he'll break it down with analysis. It gives him a run, too, but no amount of analysis can ever take Ash down without that hot-blooded battling. What really makes this an awesome fight, too, is that Meyer, Chespin and all of Serena's team is watching. The whole family is out to play for this battle, and it sets the mood. So, let's talk the battle itself.

The gym battle that began in XY 1 finally continues.

Analysis of Ash and a plan are enough to give him a run for his money.

Ash shows his ever-quick thinking in battle with Hawlucha vs. Heliolisk.

To start, we have Pikachu vs. Bunnelby. On it's own, the battle is really just a light appetizer, but what makes it so great is the fact that it's a direct callback to their first battle. This rivalry and battle started back then, and now it's going to finish. Both come prepared to counter one another, but in the end, Ash's quick thinking lets Pikachu take the win. Then it's Goodra vs. Heliolisk, but with suck a poor speed vs. bulk matchup...Ash actually switches! That's unusual for him, but a good call with Hawlucha coming out and showing who's boss! After his loss to Ramos, it's nice to see Hawlucha put in the effort against Heliolisk, and seeing Ash's snap judgments come into play as he notices Heliolisk's weaknesses and takes direct advantage of it. It's a strong start to the first part of the battle.

Ash's quick thinking gives Goodra the chance to win.

The blistering finale to an epic Gym Battle.

It's the second part that, as usual, plays up the fact of how these Pokémon work together as a team. Hawlucha does some damage against Clemont's Luxray before Pikachu comes in to deal with more. In both instances, Ash wants to see how they'll do on an electric battlefield, though he claims it as his mistake with Hawlucha. Goodra, however, is the defining factor of this battle after the rest of the team put in work. This is probably one of the reasons it and Luxio evolved so swiftly. Once more, we have Ash's snap decisions, realizing Goodra loves water, so he uses Rain Dance, activating Hydration and giving Goodra the room to take down Luxray with an epic Bide.

The family continues together, emphasizing teamwork.

By and far, this battle exceeds Korrina's in an amazing way, from the feel between Ash and Clemont down to their matching each other tit-for-tat on the battlefield, but with Ash remaining confident all the way through he'll win. It becomes the new gym to beat for the future. And at the end, Clemont plans to journey with Ash again; after all, Ash is so impulsive, they need a balance to him in the group. It's one last show of teamwork before the entire group joins together as their little family to continue on the next leg of their journey together.

Greetings and Farewells

Synchronization of Pokémon for transforming.

With the Gym Battle complete, Ash and friends pay another visit to Professor Sycamore, who's working with Meyer to fix...something. Don't know; pretty irrelevant other than an early-in-the-episode comment from Sycamore. What's more important is that Sycamore is testing a Mega Stone and Keystone. Ironic that the Mega Stone synchronizes to the Pokémon...hmm...keep that in mind, since it kind of shows that trainer and Pokémon are tied together in mind and heart.

Alain in the series proper.
Don't forget Sycamore and Garchomp's backstory.

Garchomp was always a protective sweetie.

More important to this episode is that it is the first in-series mention of Alain. Not to Ash and all of them, but internally, we see a time when Alain worked as Professor Sycamore's assistant from the professor's point of view. Obviously the events in Hoenn got him thinking. Before long, however...TRio attacks. Once again, like in XY 2, Garchomp the sweetie takes the blow from Pikachu being captured and is caught up, soon being forced to try and Mega Evolve. Of course, if anything with Diantha, Korrina and Alain has taught us, you need an actual bond for that sort of thing.

Sycamore has the same bond as other Mega Evolution users.

Sycamore and Meyer plan to work together.

It's shown through the episode. Sycamore can hear Garchomp's voice when others can't, just like Diantha and Korrina. Sycamore uses his strong bond to usurp James' own attempt to Mega Evolve (it also gives Sycamore the hint he needs to figure out Blaziken Mask's identity). What really enforces this is that we see how Sycamore took care of Garchomp when she was a Gible, and how she continued to care for the Pokémon at the lab. It's her character, and that allows them to successfully Mega Evolve together. With that success (and TRio's blasting off), the group sets off again. Naturally, the running gag of the lab being destroyed returns, but Sycamore has a little more success as Meyer agrees to work with him regarding Mega Evolution.

Goodra's care and kindness, like a benevolent ruler.

Finally departing from Lumiose, the gang takes a rest at the side of the road where...Chespin causes problems again. These problems are mitigated by Goodra, though, who shows himself, as usual, to be someone who likes caring for others and is rather protective. This is soon broken up by a man named Keanan, who remembers Goodra from his days as a Goomy and takes them all to the wetlands he calls home...as much as Goodra doesn't want to go.

The invading army:
the source of Goodra's fear of fairies and violence.

It is here that the full story that Goodra has been building up to is revealed. All of those little flashes and overreactions quickly make sense. The wetlands were invaded by Bug types and led by a Fairy in the form of Florges, a Fairy type that was utterly ruthless to Goodra. No wonder he was so scared of Dedenne. Now, however, he's strong, and his lament over the state of his home draws the attention of allies and enemies alike.

TRio proves themselves far sneakier than usual here.

Ash's encouragement gives Goodra the strength to fully fight back
and protect all of his friends in the wetlands.

This sets in motion a battle between the two different forces, with a surprisingly sneaky TRio in the background. They've planned something, and are setting this conflict in perpetual motion, likely having something to do with the lowered water level that Keanan notices. What's worse is that they're not making themselves known, showing that they have learned from their earlier attempts, and have made this one a little more long-term. In any case, Goodra is propelled into battle, protecting his friends swiftly, a fact that Ash takes notices of; he needed to evolve swiftly to become strong and protect what matters, which has been consistently shown. When Florges shows up, he nearly shuts down, but with the encouragement of his trainer, Goodra learns Ice Beam and defeats Florges in a battle, despite her advantage...

Ash already knows what he has to do for Goodra.

...at least until he's sniped by TRio. From there, Goodra is put into care, while Clemont looks into what happened, quickly coming to the conclusion that TRio are the ones behind all of this. In fact, they're insidiously influencing Florges, who is merely trying to care for her child (?), Floette. TRio states that Goodra is a threat, as is Pikachu, so her forces move to capture Pikachu. Ash, meanwhile, already realizes how much the swamp means to Goodra; it's obvious here as to the decision he'll make in the next episode. As this episode ends, though, Clemont has his realization and Pikachu is captured, setting in motion the conclusion to things in the wetlands.

The realization that TRio is interfering,
sends the action of the second half into motion.

And, whew, that conclusion is one of the more action-packed sequences we've had thus far. While the first episode of this two-parter really did a lot of setup for the characters and tying off the ends that had been hinted at, this second episode really takes it and gives it a straight up action approach. Sure, TRio is the main enemy, but the fact they've manipulated events makes them feel like more of a threat than usual. And with Pikachu, Dedenne and Wooper captured, Ash and Goodra aren't taking any chances, even if the latter is wounded. They charge straight for the enemy base at the spring.

Clemont's taken a level of confidence,
asking Ash to leave a situation to him.

What I like about this sequence is a couple things, and not just because there's quite a bit of action. First is that Clemont and Serena are beginning to show a lot more confidence, with Clemont outright telling Ash to leave things to him. He has changed, for the better, and is becoming very capable and reliable. This is done for Ash and Goodra to make it to the spring, where they learn about Floette...and Florges learns the truth about TRio, who has been absorbing the spring water to sell it because of its healing properties. Their deception revealed, they take off in a ship, with Ash, Florges and Goodra giving chase.

Goodra is willing to protect everyone,
even former enemies.

The power of teamwork is used to restore the wetlands.

Floette joins the two forces together as one in harmony.

A fairly standard (but enjoyable) action piece goes next, with Goodra showing how far he's willing to go to protect others, even doing so for Florges, an act that helps to tie the two of them together. Naturally, TRio is defeated, their airship explodes and Ash and the others jump from it while all of the Pokémon below work to save them from a gruesome death. It exhibits that power of teamwork that has been so prevalent through the series, and it's that same power between Goodra's Rain Dance and Florges' Grassy Terrain which restores the wetlands. Floette wakes up and then joins the two groups as one for a safer wetlands.

The reason Ash chose to leave Goodra behind,
was because Goodra always wanted to just protect his home.
This was always to be the final result of Goodra's arc.

The departure is truly hard on everyone,
showing that bond all of them have as a family.

But in order for them to remain as safe, Ash realizes he needs to leave Goodra behind. This is part of the reason the arc is a little rushed, but at the same time, it was obvious that it was the end result since day one. Goomy wanted to get stronger to protect his friends and home. Now he is strong enough to do that, his whole entire purpose lying in that moment. Ash has always understood Goodra and the reason for his strength, so he understands in this moment that it needs to be done. It's hard on all of them, showing how much they care for each other like family, but Ash does it anyway (well, it's always hard on him whenever he releases a team member).

And with that departure from Goodra, the quartet begins their journey anew, towards a new phase. It's the end of one journey...and the beginning of a very different one, in a sense.

With that, I will see you all in Part 5: Rivalries Anew.

Dare to Be Silly,
Epicocity