Review of the Series: Pokémon XY Part 6: The Z and the Quest for the Master Class

It's that time again; time for another part of my review of the XY series! What's that? It's actually the XYZ series? Of course, I know that, but as it is still part of the greater narrative, I decided to still call it XY, while we begin diving into the portion that is XYZ. We've done a lot to get to this point, and this is the moment that the series truly starts bringing it home. I hope you're ready; it's about to get fun.

When last we left the story, Serena had gotten two of her Princess Keys and an Eevee, even overcoming Shauna in the Anistar Showcase. Likewise, Ash had met a trainer named Sawyer that began to look up to him, caught a Noibat and battled through two gyms, all while getting a psychic vision from Gym Leader Olympia that he and Frogadier were destined to reach new heights.

And what's more than that, a great crisis is approaching Kalos...

If you're ready to dive into it all (again, a long read), read on!

The Tone and Opening

This encapsulates the darker tone, and hints at the conflict with Team Flare.

Like last time, with a massive change in the opening, I think it's appropriate to talk about it and the associated tone change. In particular, what the first episode of XYZ presents is this overwhelming feeling that even though the journey is continuing, by no means is it to be the same as it was for the first 93 episodes. There's a darkness looming over Kalos, making its move, and what's more, Ash's future is a bit uncertain. Will he reach the greatness prophesied, or will he fall to his growing flaws? It's an important tonal shift that lends a darker tone to the rest of the series.

A return to Lumiose, and losses to Sawyer and Alain are also hinted.

Coming with that is the new, totally hype, opening song. There's a lot of stuff jampacked in here, particularly the appearance of Zygarde, who is about to play a rather massive role in the story. That's the obvious part, though. Less obvious is Ash, who's shown with a downcast expression as Greninja walks away, images of Sawyer and Alain in the background, indicating them as the new walls that he'll be hitting up against. We also see that Sawyer will be able to Mega Evolve his Sceptile. Beyond that, there's the hint that the gang will be returning to Lumiose City at some point as well.

All of this pales in comparison, however, to the sight of all of Team Flare gathering in the opening shot. Even seeing Wulfric towards the end doesn't stop the opening from letting the viewer know: Team Flare is on the move. It is with this we begin to speak of the series and where it goes.

The Strongest Mega Intersection

Before we join up with Ash and the gang again, the story brings us right back to Alain and his quest to be the strongest. What's interesting to note here is that Mairin is seen (by the narrator, at least) as a seed of doubt for Alain's convictions in becoming stronger. It's no wonder, then, that he pushes her away. For now, though, we see that Alain has approached Lysandre with that wish to truly be the strongest, and Lysandre responds in kind by setting up a challenge of defeating 10 Mega Evolution trainers...and if he loses once, he can kiss his Mega Ring goodbye.

Mairin is the seed of doubt planted on Alain's path.

Alain's insistence at becoming the strongest leads to a trial from Lysandre.

The Megalith is contained, which has implications for the climax.

Mairin's insistence at traveling with Alain leads to
a breakdown of his motivations, all so he can become strong.

Mairin, naturally, is not all too happy about this, since she feels there's no need for Alain to get stronger; rather, they can grow stronger together. Alain doesn't think so. With some harsh words, Alain pushes her away, telling her that he doesn't need or want her, because with her there, he'll remain weak. It breaks Mairin's heart, and she goes to sob, with Chespie leaving her alone to set the plot in motion. While all this is going on, Malva is watching Alain, and Lysandre is showing the contained Megalith to Steven. Of particular note is that he's stated to have contained it so the energy won't leak. This is important, as it explains some things during the final climax of Kalos in regards to the Megalith.

Chespie is tied to this creature as a Grass type,
and effects its escape...

...and falls into a coma as a result, creating a rather dark plotline.

With everything going on here, Chespie wanders around the labs, sneaking into a place where some scientists are experimenting on an unknown Pokémon. Chespie feels a connection with it, most obviously because it's a Grass type, and this Pokémon has a connection with plants. Soon, the experiments crank it up a notch, causing the Pokémon to burst with energy that flows into Chespie. It rescues the creature, but soon Chespie falls into a coma. It is quite easily the darkest plotline Pokémon has ever embarked on; something like a coma is no joke.

Alain's motivations have completely broken down.

Alain defeats Malva, placing him on the level of an Elite Four member.

This event, a moment of triumph for Alain before crushing despair,
will be later repeated. Here, he finally falls to Lysandre's manipulations.

Meanwhile, Alain battles up to fighting Malva, who questions his convictions. He holds on to them, wanting to get stronger to protect those closest to him, believing in Charizard, though Malva clearly doesn't quite believe it. Likely because he's been so heavily manipulated by Lysandre. Even with that, you can see how Alain's motivations have begun to deteriorate, his reasons changing just to allow him to think he's getting stronger (first to study Mega Evolution, then Mairin, then just to be strong). In the end, though, Alain wins against her; this is important, as it establishes his strength on that of an Elite Four member. He'll be a challenge when he and Ash inevitably intersect. Ironically, though, this very moment is almost the beginning of a bookend to the Kalos League itself. Alain reaches a moment of great triumph...only to reveal the news that Chespie is in a coma.

Alain loses all joy in battling just to "protect" the ones he loves...
pushing him right into Lysandre's machinations.

Right away, Alain clearly blames himself (which it is partially his fault), and immediately sets out to make things right, no matter the cost. At Lysandre's manipulation and guidance, Alain strikes out to be the strongest no matter what, all so Mairin can smile again...but it's clear he's begun casting aside everything that once made himself...himself.

And as the final special closes out, the strange creature incidentally makes a beeline right for our waiting heroes. With his original plan in shambles, Lysandre makes his move in the open.

Team Flare Appears

Team Flare is forced to come out of the shadows thanks to the events above.

It's clear from the beginning of the first episode of XYZ (episodes here coded as XYZ 1, 2, 3 etc.), that the setback suffered from Chespie's actions at the labs have forced Lysandre to move his people into the open. In particular, his scientists are trying to capture a creature labeled as Z-2, all to restart what they lost when Z-1 was set free. However, Mable fails, with the creature obliterating all of Team Flare that is there, and forcing them to retreat. It's an immediate sign from the very beginning at how different the tone will be from this point on, and what the series will truly revolve around. It also speaks to Team Flare: they never wanted to come out of the shadows, but were forced to thanks to earlier events.

The little one is kept by Bonnie and named as Squishy...
...not that it cares.

Speaking of earlier events, said escaped creature arrives where our heroes are and dives right into Bonnie's bag, where she finds it. Due to its unknown nature, Ash and Serena are unable to identify it, while Bonnie decides to name it Squishy and keep it. Squishy, for its part, doesn't seem to care, and when a group of Dodrio come through, it immediately escapes. What this does lead to, however, is the appearance of Sawyer, and he's definitely grown. It soon shows in a battle between the heroes and the pursuing Team Flare, rescuing Squishy from the latter's grasp. Even Noibat gets to show off his new battle chops for a moment. They escape.

Squishy is shown to absorb sunlight for energy.

Sawyer's grown strong at 5 badges, and his analytical side
is shown by him knowing he's not ready for a gym yet.

Squishy is interested in hitching a ride to Terminus Cave.

It's very obvious from this opening episode that Squishy really could care less about the group here. Right now, they're just convenient in keeping it safe and ferrying it around, plus allowing it to sunbathe for nutrients. While they're discovering this, they're also discovering the path to Snowbelle City with Sawyer, which should be a hint that, in part, Sawyer will be there. It also displays his analytical self: he knows he's not ready for Snowbelle yet, only having 5 badges, so he's planning around it. It says the final gym will be very hard, and indeed, it will later prove to be. Even with that, Sawyer plans to challenge Olympia, as well, proving what a level he's taken as a trainer from his swift adapting and learning. Before long, Sawyer points out Terminus Cave en route to Snowbelle and Squishy reacts, clearly wanting to go there.

Squishy is capable of transformation and powerful attacks,
hinting that it is a legendary.

Bonnie already shows signs of an empathic connection to Squishy.

That's not happening now, though, as Team Flare is mounting another assault, which Squishy escapes from with Bonnie's help. Ash and Sawyer, in particular, team up, with Frogadier and Grovyle showing their rivalry again. When Squishy's separated from Bonnie, however, it's cornered by Team Flare, and it transforms, destroying them effortlessly. It's a show that Flare will need more than strength for their plans, and is something Lysandre acknowledges, in his own way. More than that, Bonnie is already shown to have this near empathic connection to Squishy, able to sense and find it easily. As morning comes, Team Flare is routed, deciding to study this Z Pokémon and make another attempt in the near future...

The two that are destined to cross paths...
Their expressions say everything about them.

It's an amazingly strong start to an amazing arc of the series, I have to say, establishing Team Flare as a threat to the main characters. It shows us just why they're acting now, and why only Lysandre had been manipulating events from behind the scenes until now. Really, a strong plot. And as the gang bids farewell to Sawyer, their group unwittingly passes by the one trainer they're on a collision course with (it liberally hints at it), and the one who will equally shape the future of Kalos: Alain.

Boring Fillers and a Wacky Dream

With a great, fresh plot episode behind us, one has to wonder what the rest of the series will now hold! The answer? Some of the most awful filler to date.

A filler about Quilladin...

While we do have little snippets of plot finding their way into these next episodes, they're largely based around nothing much happening. The first episode, for instance, may have a moment where the gang calls Professor Sycamore and TRio finds out about Squishy, naturally wanting to steal it, but the main meat of the episode revolves around a romantic Quilladin (oh, look, another push of romance). I guess all members of the species are that way. The reason I hold this episode so low is that while it could have been used to develop Eevee a little more, instead it's used for Pancham and Chespin, who have actually grown to work together quite well. Other than that, standard TRio plot and fare, even if we do get some things from Ash; he acts as though battling and courtship are the same, and is able to inspire Pancham, Chespin and Quilladin to stop fighting to save what matters. But still...boring.

...and a filler about Mega Audino...

The next episode continues the trends. Yes, Professor Sycamore appears in the episode, but the episode focuses on an errant Nurse Joy and her semi-bitchy Audino. The reason for being Audino instead of Wigglytuff makes sense, but it's still just to showcase Mega Audino. It's a very slow moving episode, too, only picking up with TRio's usual shenanigans. Ultimately a simple story that has Nurse Joy succeed in Mega Evolving Audino, before Sycamore leaves to study Squishy. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure that mini plot point went anywhere, but we'll see as the series moves along. For now, though, it's easy to note how apathetic Squishy has been through all of this, not even caring about any of them.

...and a filler about Litleo make up a slew of boring filler.

Then there's the next episode, which is literally one of the most boring episodes in existence. I mean, it just follows a coming-of-age story for a Litleo who's looked after by its Pyroar father. The only interesting note is Clemont willing to let himself be harmed to treat the Pokémon. It's so boring, with nothing happening, that I relished the moment TRio struck, because something happened. Also, let's ignore the fact that an African Savannah seems to be in the middle of Kalos...

Darkrai kicks off the plot of this episode, hinting further at the Kalos Crisis.

Finally, at the end of this fillery tunnel arrives a bright light...in the form of an utterly wacky and bizarre episode. Yeah, we're watching Pokémon XYZ, but this quickly comes off as Pokémon LSD. It starts simply enough, with the gang making wishes on shooting stars, wishing for pretty basic things...which, ironically, Ash's wish to meet strong trainers will be fulfilled sooner than later. Then they go to sleep, but Dedenne is useless and prevents Squishy from sleeping, so it climbs up a tree...where a Darkrai is. This sets the episode in motion, and what's real and what's a dream quickly becomes confusing. I'd like to say it's a reference to the tenth movie, as well, as Darkrai's ability to give nightmares also sends a message about just what the Kalos Crisis may entail.

The representation of Lysandre, giving chase to Squishy.

So, as the bulk of this episode, Pikachu and Meowth awaken, but are greeted by utter weirdness in the form of an evolved Bunnelby and Braixen, and a de-evolved Frogadier, talking. In human voices, that is. It freaks both of them out until they meet Squishy, who tells them to flee from the giant flaming face that is aiming to capture and consume Squishy. It also offers the pair a look at Squishy's true form before they awaken...only to realize they're still in a dream. it's all very Inception.

The dream shows the lengths Lysandre will go to
in order to achieve his plan.

Squishy's power at work.

What follows is a chase sequence that leads to a burned down wood. From Squishy's statement, the force that is pursuing it will stop at no end to see them captured and their vision fulfilled, even razing the entire world. It's an obvious hint and statement at what Lysandre, who we know is the one pursuing it (and is more obvious by the shape of the flame), will go to in order to see his vision fulfilled. Of equally important note here is how Squishy manages to use its power to restore the life of the plants in the area. It's a bit of a reference to how it'll clean up a mess later. After some more battling with the flaming head, though, Clemont's alarm clock blows up and wakes Pikachu and Meowth out of the dream, warning them of what's to come.

By all rights, it's an episode that makes you feel like you're on LSD with how insane it is, but what it really does is establish the threat on hand, what kind of conviction is needed to stop it, and what may happen if they fail. With that, the story continues on, out of filler and weirdness land...or rather, into weirdness of a different kind.

Conclusion at the Ninja Village

Sanpei returns for the conclusion of his character plot.

Back on the road to Snowbelle City, Ash is hard at training when both Frogadier and the ever apathetic Squishy sense the approach of someone. This someone is our good friend Sanpei, and finally, his story will come to its conclusion. It was hinted at in his very first episode that he would be, essentially, an important character, and this two-parter really proves it, finally bringing his arc to an end, and closing off those things that were introduced way back in XY 17, namely his brothers Ippei and Nihei.

We finally meet Ippei and Nihei, more than 80 episodes
after they were first talked about.

Sure enough, Sanpei brings the gang to the Ninja Village, where we meet these two brothers, the strongest in the village, and Nihei proves to be quite the challenge, defeating Sanpei's Greninja rather handily with his Venasaur. In the background, of course, evil forces are plotting an assault on the village. To be honest, this first episode is really just a setup, introducing all of the other ninja characters that aren't Sanpei, with a conclusion in the following episode. That doesn't mean it's a bad thing, of course; there's still a lot to talk about.

The first instance of what occurs to Ash and Greninja.
It's an obvious hint that it's the Pokémon that's special. Not Ash.

Most in particular is the hero shrine that is beneath the village. Of course, Dedenne, in his fooling around, is the one to find this, which Ippei and Nihei introduce them to. Note how Squishy still could care less about anyone here. It's instantly shown that the heroes of the village were Pokémon, and in particular a specific Pokémon that inspired future generations, such as Ippei and Sanpei. Yes, it's Greninja. Bonnie is the first to note how different it looks, yet without a trainer, one can instantly assume that, yet again, it is not Ash, but Frogadier that will obtain power.

Before much else can be said, the attack is launched on the village, with TRio trying to get in on the action. Sanpei and the gang go to the chieftain of the village, but he's kidnapped by the enemy, forcing Sanpei and Ash to give pursuit, only to encounter a man with a Bisharp standing in their way. It's here that the episode leaves us for next time.

Even Saizo comes back, bringing the character arc full circle.

Kagetomo is a villain arc, and holds many similarities to Alain.

And what an episode the next episode is. For one thing, Frogadier, Pikachu and Sanpei's Greninja are absolutely manhandled by the Bisharp, only saved when Sanpei's teacher, good ol' Saizo shows up to bail them out. They still fail in rescuing the chief, of course, but at the very least, Saizo is aware of who is behind this: a ninja named Kagetomo, who's looking to become the next chief over Ippei. Mostly, he wants to use the ninja to rule the world, but they don't believe in that. This difference of opinion, as it were, leads to the final conflict on the mountaintop.

Pokémon history made yet again as Ash obtains his
first fully evolved Water starter.

While Ippei's Greninja battles Kagetomo's Weavile, everyone else goes to battle the rogue ninja corp, including a rematch against the same Bisharp with the same Pokémon. It's still clearly a tough battle, which, in the middle of it, Pikachu is placed in danger. What happens? Frogadier intercepts...and evolves! It's just a continuation in a long line of Ash's Pokémon evolving to protect either him or the rest of his team, showing their teamwork. It's also a moment in Pokémon history for Ash to have a fully evolved Water starter. And as Ash goes into battle against Bisharp again...something odd happens.

The first occurrence: entirely instinctual, fueled by
the need to get "stronger and stronger".

First to note is that Ash claims he's going to get "stronger and stronger" while this happens. Of course, there was another character who did this: Korrina. It's a subtle hint at what an issue it will become. Also, what occurs is on pure instinct, but I'll talk a little bit more about this later, just noting for the present that it explains some things. What happens? Water surrounds Greninja, changing his form...and he absolutely wrecks Bisharp, before the form fades away. It's so brief and instinctual that Ash barely has time to register what happens.

The difference between Ippei and Kagetomo is the exact same
difference between Ash and Alain, and serves to be
important in the climax of the series.

Meanwhile, Ippei defeats Kagetomo, and this becomes the second most important aspect of the episode. Why is this important? It's the stark similarities that will later crop up between Alain/Kagetomo and Ash/Ippei. That the latter fights for the dreams of everyone else, and not just himself or the one. And while the result isn't quite the same, in the minds of the former two, the latter are the superior individuals for that very reason, and the people they cannot best. More on the actual Ash and Alain situation will be said later, but for now, it's a very interesting comparison to be made.

With all of this, Ash and the others bid farewell to Sanpei as his brother is named the new chief. As they move on from Ninja Village, all of the characters we met there note that the hero Greninja appeared again, showing that what happened with Ash has indeed happened before, but not in any living memory...

Dances and Devils

The similarity between Serena and Eevee are brought up once more.

Serena supports Eevee, as always.

Fresh off of the Ninja Village, the gang soon arrives in Couriway Town, the sight of the next Showcase! Serena's fired up and plans to win her final Princess Key, even if Eevee is still nervous as heck. It's a scene that further enforces the fact that Eevee is a representation of who Serena was before this, with Serena outright telling her that she was just as nervous before her first Showcase. What's more is that Palermo is here as well, taking immediate notice of Serena. Likewise, Nini is back, and she's gunning for her final key as well. Jessie is also here, determined to win, though in ill-conceived attempt to cheat at the Theme Performance ironically gives her a setback. The night before it all begins, Serena reminds Eevee that she's right there and it will be okay, giving another show of just how far Serena has come.

Jessie's improved at making Poképuffs!

Finally, the Couriway Showcase begins with a theme round that further plays into Serena's strengths: putting on a show while baking Poképuffs. Funnily enough, what's most interesting about this sequence isn't the fact that Serena or Nini are skilled at this enough to gain a roaring approval from the crowd, but rather that Jessie has actually improved from her...strange...attempt back in XY 80. It's a subtle hint at who the winner will be this time, especially since Jessie was on the backfoot.

Nini's performance is very similar to the one in XY 50.

Finally, the free performances begin, and there are more than a few things to pay attention to. For one, like Shauna, Nini's performance is almost the exact same one she showed in XY 50, when we first met her. It, again, reinforces that the performance is an evolution of one's self, and not just an attempt to be as different as possible.

A similar performance, with Eevee taking Pancham's place
and the same finale as last time, just with less sparkles.

When Eevee falls, Serena keeps smiling.
She's come a far way, and that, at least, shows that she's most equipped
to be Kalos Queen.

Then comes Serena's performance. You'll immediately notice that while the use of fire is retained, it's vastly different owing to no Pancham being there. However, the shades of the last performance, namely the dancing, is retained, including the bits from before where Pancham would spin through Braixen's fire. It's the same, but with Eevee. Other than that, the ending is the exact same as last time, and Ash even notes it's her best performance, meaning that, by all rights, Serena was brilliant on the stage. Yet the true focus is when Eevee slips; it's a mistake, because Serena's overestimated her Pokémon's ability. It costs her the win to Jessie, but is hardly what's important. What is important is the fact that Serena smiles at Eevee regardless, encouraging her to get right back up. It's a callback to what Aria said in XY 64 about a Kalos Queen smiling, and clearly impresses Palermo. This is vastly important because while Serena loses the competition, it indicates that she, as a Performer, does have the ability to become the Kalos Queen, especially in the way she doesn't let Eevee falling serve as a setback for either her performance or her career. She truly has grown.

Team Flare monitors both cores, seeking them out, and hinting
that Z-2 will be the one captured.

Squishy attempts to make contact with Z-2.

Bonnie can sense Squishy, tying into her connection.

With the Couriway Showcase having come to an end, the gang moves on to Terminus Cave, as talked about in the first episode of XYZ. Squishy, the one who most wanted to come here, takes off into the cavern, which leads to, essentially, a follow sequence. We do get an awesome showing of Luxray and Noibat's non-battle abilities, though. Before long, the gang arrives to a deep green pool where Squishy begins to regain its power and contacts its counterpart. Unfortunately, this is tracked by Team Flare, who begins to move in. When the main characters show up at the pool, though, Squishy disappears. It had been apathetic up to this point, so it's no surprise that it just considered them a ride. However, Bonnie seems to be able to sense Squishy, further emphasizing this almost empathic connection between the two of them.

Noibat gets some battle experience in.

Squishy transforms to save itself and the others, as well.

Then Team Flare shows up, locating Squishy and moving to capture it. Well, our heroes, and even TRio, won't be standing for that one. They immediately move into action battling against Team Flare and rescuing Squishy. Even Noibat gets a chance to show off his battle chops, begin to grow up a little bit more (we'll talk about that soon). The battle really takes a major turn, though, when Squishy transforms into its dog-like form and obliterates the land around them before taking off. Team Flare gives pursuit, but the main characters won't let them have their way quite so easily.

The synchronization between Ash and Greninja is highlighted,
both in body and mind.

For the most part, XYZ 9 is a complete action set piece. It's intense and fast-paced, but the real meaning of the episode comes near the end. To defend Squishy, Greninja once more transforms into the veil of water. Like in XYZ 7, it is completely instinctive. It is not "with care" as Olympia had hinted, which is why the form is so incomplete. Not a problem for the moment, but we're not at the moment that it changes yet. The key piece of info from this is that Ash and Greninja somehow become synchronized in this form, with Ash seeing through Greninja's eyes and taking damage with him. He's still super strong, though, forcing Team Flare to retreat.

TRio declares war on Team Flare.

Yet, with Squishy still missing, the gang has lost some morale, worried for their new friend, while Team Flare is making moves on the other "core" Z-2, and TRio is declaring war on their organization.

Clemont's development helps to show, and furthers
Bonnie's development within the episode as well.

This ties immediately into the next episode, where tensions are running a little high after the encounter. Particularly, Bonnie is especially worried that something's happened to Squishy, and in her worry, acts quite a bit like a brat until Clemont insists she stays, because he's worried about her. In large part, this episode is a bit fillerish, the first half focusing on the search for Squishy while the second half focuses on the fallout of the first half, trying to find an herb to heal Bunnelby, who was damaged. It's this action and desperation on Bonnie's part that serves as a bit of development for her, but especially for Squishy.

Team Flare shows their genre savvy side as they follow the gang.

Squishy and Z-2's conflicting views eventually drive much of the plot.

Squishy watches Bonnie working to save a Pokémon...

...and eventually joins, affecting its behavior.

At the same time as all of this is going on, Team Flare is still keeping track of them, but staying in the shadows. It's what they've done after all of this time, of course, but it really shows how genre savvy they are, and how ruthless and persistent they are as well. It also serves as a hint that they're looking for both cores, Z-1 and Z-2. In fact, between those two, there appears to be some strife: Squishy is interested in humans, while Z-2 thinks the world would be better off without them. This dichotomy later drives the plot in the series, and serves as the beginning of a turning point for Squishy. It returns to Bonnie by the end of the episode, and has a marked change in how it behaves, becoming a little more fun loving and appreciative after watching Bonnie's efforts to save Bunnelby. It's interested in humanity and whether it can coexist with the rest of the world. However, that's a topic to be discussed a little later.

Noibat's learned how to fly rather well by this point!

Noibat shows willingness to fight to the very end.

For now, the journey continues with an episode that focuses on Noibat. Once more, we get the short sequence of Squishy having a little bit of fun with the group, and we also see how Jessie is fueled and fired up in thinking about Showcases, but that's not the focus here. Instead, we see how much Noibat has grown, able to fly and zip through the forest with ease right now, even if it lands him on a collision course with Breloom and sparks a fight. It's Noibat's biggest fight, and shows he's willing to have the responsibility of battling, and has the same tenacity that Ash does.

With his tenacity, Noibat dives into action and learns a new move.

For the most part, the episode really focuses on Noibat growing up that little bit more. He's still the baby, but he wants to battle, and that determination manifests itself into a new move in the form of Acrobatics. It's really hard to describe this episode as anything more than a Noibat development episode. Yeah, it has a romance subplot with Breloom and a Floette (yep, still having plenty of romance this series), and it shows a lot of Hawlucha being the awesome big brother in his encouragement, but Noibat gets the lion's share of the focus, walking away with a big step in growing up. Beyond that, there's not much to talk about.

Monsieur Pierre is holding a dance party! Couples are mandatory!
Cue shipping shenanigans.

Then, we have the next episode; one that probably sparked the most controversy until the Kalos League...on a completely ridiculous level of course, because I'll barely talk about what did cause it. In this case, XYZ 12 starts with the gang at a Pokémon Center, relaxing a bit before they'd head back on to the road. It's just a little fluff...until Bonnie starts humming. If you listen close enough, you'll realize it's the same song from the ending. Yes, it isn't just some fun ending song after all. More on that later. Instead, we have Serena grooming her Pokémon, while being firm, yet kind, with all of them. It's a different place than she was in XY 64. When she's finished, she checks out Pokévision...to learn that Monsieur Pierre will be holding a dance party! What's more, all Performers must come in pairs of one male and one female, which includes Pokémon!

Serena clearly wants to go with Ash, but asks Clemont
for the sake of Eevee, really showing that she puts others before herself.

Aria is the goal of all Performers.

If Serena's reaction to this is anything to go by...yeah, she has it very bad for Ash by this point, but knowing that Eevee is most comfortable with Bunnelby, she puts her own feelings aside to go with Clemont. Unfortunately for her, it does leave Miette free to swoop in on Ash, but poor Miette doesn't know what she's gotten herself into. What follows is largely a fun and funny episode (between Pikachu being tossed around like a rag doll and James checking out after dancing with Serena, it's hilarious). The most important part early on is the arrival of Aria, showing how much this woman is all of the Performers goals to strive after. Before long, though, the dance ends, not giving Ash and Serena the chance to dance at all. Yeah, this was the controversy. Honestly, she dodged a bullet and got something better: she gets to battle alongside Ash.

Eevee grows more comfortable around other Pokémon.

Serena's smile, taken from Aria's words, gives strength to Eevee,
allowing her to evolve into Sylveon.

The key point of this episode is exhibited here, to be certain. Much of the episode is about Eevee and acclimating to other Pokémon, and she slowly does that. It also shows that she's gotten closer to Pokémon other than Bunnelby, willing to protect Pikachu in battle, especially when he puts himself in the line of fire for her. This willingness to move forward for others makes her just like Serena, and her trainer's encouragement causes her to evolve in Sylveon. However, it's the reason for the evolution that's more important than the evolution itself. In this case, it's Serena smiling at her to give her strength, remembering Aria's words to her about her smile. Why is it important? Not only does it give Sylveon strength, but it is also the words that will, sooner than later, set Serena on her new path.

Both Aria and Palermo are interested in Serena.
Note the comparison between Serena and Aria.

With Sylveon by her side, the dance party comes to an end by defeating James and Miette in battle. Meanwhile, it's shown that both Aria and Palermo know each other and take an equal interest in Serena. In particular, Palermo compares Serena to Aria. It's another hint that Serena has what it takes to be Kalos Queen, and we're not talking about strength or technique here, but something deeper. That, however, is a discussion for later.

Paths Intersecting

Sawyer's analysis of Ash and Greninja gives him
more than a fighting chance.

Ash gets visibly angry over the thought of losing to Sawyer,
wanting to win no matter what.

With the dance party behind us, we move the action to a Pokémon Center, where Ash and Sawyer have met again, jumping into battle! For one thing, Sawyer's Bagon has evolved, but it's not enough to stand up against the might that is Hawlucha. Nor does his new Honedge last long against Pikachu. However, when Greninja and Sceptile make their appearances, the battle changes. A few things of note happen right here. For one, Sawyer is shown to have expertly analyzed Greninja's fighting style...and is able to counter him most effectively. It's another show that Sawyer is growing fast because he can analyze his opponents effectively. Another thing is that Alain walks by to watch the battle, commenting on his Mega Evolution energy status. But what's most important here is Ash's expression: he gets visibly angry about the thought of losing to Sawyer. It makes sense, given that Sawyer looks up to him, but it does show that his long win streak has made him want to hold on to that idolization.

Sawyer theorizes that mastering the bond with Greninja
will aid in the new transformation.

Lysandre assures Alain that he must continue his mission.

So, on instinct, Greninja transforms and wrecks Sceptile. Alain sees this an immediately becomes intrigued, while Sawyer realizes he still has far to go. Ash just can't explain it at all, because to him, it just...happens. Sawyer suggests that it's like Ash has become Greninja, and that the two of them are doing so because of their bond. Of course, he's hit the nail right on the head, but right now, Ash isn't there. Either way, they bid farewell to Sawyer, while Alain receives a report that the Mega Evolution energy collection is going well, but there's still been no change in Mairin or Chespie.

Zygarde and Mega Evolution energy are connected.

Xerosic being the scientist hints at a confrontation with Clemont,
while we get a glimpse of Team Flare's plan.

Meanwhile, on a remote island, Xerosic is testing the power of the Zygarde cells. This scene, if anything, not only hints at Team Flare's plan to create wild plants that take over everything but also that Clemont will be the one to confront Xerosic. They're both inventors, but for vastly different reasons, of course. It also confirms that Zygarde and Mega Evolution energy are very similar, and connected.

Alain notes Ash's skill as a trainer, in a callback to the Korrina battle.

Back at the Center, TRio comes to kidnap Pikachu...again. Usually, I'd be annoyed that they're in this kind of episode, but here they have a point: they introduce Alain and his Charizard to Ash. Charizard frees Pikachu, who hurls a Thunderbolt from the air in a precarious position...just like during the Korrina battle (told you it'd be important). It tells Alain that Ash is a brilliant trainer, and he immediately requests for a battle.

Alain wants a strong match that makes him enjoy it.
He gets a glimmer of that from this battle with Ash.

Ash is determined to "get stronger" and "show his power",
both mindsets that will lead on a slippery slope.

The meeting that sets fate in motion.

The early, micro result of Team Flare's plan.

The battle itself is rather telling for both Ash and Alain. Not only does it show how they're foils to each other by their different approaches to the battle, but we get a glimpse of both motivations. That Ash transforms with Greninja by wanting to "show them our power", tells a lot. He's focusing on strength to get the job done, not his bond with Greninja. Alain, meanwhile, wants to fight someone at full strength, and he's itching to fight Ash, finding enjoyment in battle for the first time in a long time. He wins, of course, because his Charizard is insane, and the two finally introduce each other, setting in motion the wheels of fate that are grinding towards the Kalos Crisis.

The Squishy Song is properly introduced to the show in XYZ 14.

The team dispatched in XYZ 9 has cornered Z-2.

However, Alain's story right now isn't quite done. While the next episode doesn't focus on the twerps whatsoever, it offers a lot of insight for other things. Before the action shifts away from them, we see Bonnie officially singing the "Squishy Song" to calm Squishy down, because she senses that Squishy is upset. It's no surprise, given Z-2 is being ruthlessly pursued by the same Team Flare scientists that were dispatched to track it down back in XYZ 9. That was a hint back then, and now it's come full circle. Another hint is thrown in as well: that Mega Evolution energy can be used to capture Zygarde.

TRio being the heroes of XYZ 14 gives them their best role yet.

The real heroes of this episode, ironically, are TRio. After contacting Giovanni and getting marching orders to take out Team Flare, they get to work, nabbing Z-2 and entering into battle against Team Flare. Funnily enough, it is probably this action and their subsequent helping of Z-2 that both solidified its mindset regarding humans and changed it, as well. Regardless, Team Flare gives pursuit, and a battle breaks out. It's a pretty good showing of TRio, holding their own, even if they're horribly outnumbered. Before long, though, Z-2 transforms into its usual Zygarde form and begins obliterating the land around them.

Charizard has the strength to go toe-to-tow with a Legendary...again.

Alain will follow any of Lysandre's orders, as long as
it will make Mairin smile again.

Enter Alain, called there by Lysandre. Now, Alain isn't a bad guy, but his work here to help capture Z-2 comes off as pretty horrible in a sense. What it really portrays, though, is that Alain's motivations are truly broken down. He'll do anything Lysandre says, if it will help the quest to become the strongest and see Mairin smile again. That's all that matters. Capturing a Legendary for that exact purpose is totally fine. Other than that, the fact that Charizard can stand against Zygarde for at least some time really lends credence to how strong it is. In the end, Team Flare gets ahold of Z-2 and slinks back into the shadows; they're almost ready for their plans in Kalos.

To Frey, Glorio and the Master Class!

Clemont shows off his development.

So, with Team Flare back off the table of sending their troops out, we arrive at a filler time in a barren wasteland with a robot that feels like a total reference to Chrono Trigger. For the most part, the filler plot is very basic with the gang working to restore life to this barren land and giving some screentime to Chesnaught as a Pokémon. However, Clemont really gets his chance to shine, showing how he's come so far in his development. Throughout, he always says that giving up means science would end, so one shouldn't. He's definitely developed his confidence and strides forward, with a successful machine to boot! Other than that, not much happens, sad to say, but it's nice to see Clemont have a focus episode after so long.

Sylveon is nervous, but Serena reassures her.

Most important, though, is that we arrive at Frey City (Fleurrh in the dub), site of the next Showcase, where Serena hopes to win her final Princess Key. She has a formidable challenge, though, in the face of a local named Amelia, who has quite the popularity here. Not that Serena will give up, even if she's nervous. Ash's words inspire her to eat, and the next day she goes to perform, even encouraging Sylveon, who's still nervous about failing like she did before. Guess the evolution didn't yet fix every problem. Serena, though, reminds her that it's okay to make mistakes, just as Aria reminded her. With Palermo also in the crowd watching, the Showcase is set to begin.

Rhyhorn as the final Theme Performance shows that nothing
Serena did is pointless, while serving as a callback.

However, it is Serena going after the lone Rhyhorn, when she
already had so many, that proves she can be Kalos Queen.

So, what do we have for the Theme Performance? Rhyhorn, of course! I haven't brought too much attention to it, but if you've noticed, almost every single one of the Theme Performances has connected to something that Serena tried in the first 40 episodes, between fashion, Poképuffs and now Rhyhorn. Like Ash told her, nothing she did was pointless. Of course, we instantly get a callback to how the Rhyhorn like Serena and mob her, but it's not about the fact that Serena draws them all to her that wins her popularity in the crowd, but because, like a Kalos Queen, she goes after the lone Rhyhorn that won't approach anyone. She could have sat back, but she didn't, and that, more than anything, marks the difference between a regular Performer and a Kalos Queen. Naturally, she passes on to the Free Performance.

Amelia is the clear favorite, putting a wall in Serena's path.

Serena's next performance. Bet you'll notice some similarities,
yet it's still altogether different, too.
Her performance has evolved, but it still has one last stage to go.

There is some tension as to whether she can overcome the popularity and technique that Amelia displays on the stage, especially with everyone's eyes on her, but Serena decides to show how much fun they have performing. It works. The entire crowd becomes happy, with Ash saying as much. Notice, also, how Serena's performance has evolved again. The ring of fire is still there, and the ending Fire Blast is, too, but with a Swift added to it. However, added in is a ring of Stone Edge, a Fairy Wind to the air, and now Braixen and Sylveon both jumping from Stone Edge to Stone Edge. It's that kind of fun and happiness that translates to the crowd and wins Serena her final Princess Key! She's finally ready for the Master Class! Her friends even throw her a party, complete with Chespin development, both in getting acknowledgement from Sylveon and giving his food to Pancham.

Amelia was only performing solely for herself,
which brings up an issue for Serena, too.

Performing was never about being technically impressive,
or just beating your opponents, but something greater.

The seed is planted for Serena's future.

However, before then, she realizes she left her brush behind, and when she goes to get it, she overhears a conversation between Amelia and Palermo, with the latter saying that it's not about having the most distinct, different or professional/perfect performance, but about something more. Amelia, obviously, had been doing it solely for herself and thinking nothing more about being perfect. Serena, however, has been doing it for herself as well: she just wanted to have fun on the stage. Palermo points this out to her, and it sets in the niggling feeling that just doing it for oneself, just for fun, isn't enough to be Kalos Queen. This will truly be tackled later, but it plants the seed.

Despite being far out of their way, Ash has no problem
with heading for Glorio City to support Serena.

Now ready for the Master Class, it's announced to be held in Glorio City, quite a way off from Snowbelle. Yet, Ash doesn't hesitate in supporting Serena. From a guy who didn't care about her Pokévision, he's come a long way in supporting her and making gestures. It also, ironically, is the one action that brings about his greatest fall...but we'll save that for Part 7.

TRio sets off this excuse plot with Zapdos for one reason alone...

Instead, right now we head back on the road, where Clemont is excited about an upcoming Zapdos Festival, complete with a story. The excuse plot of this episode is largely irrelevant so much as the content itself is important. Zapdos is flying around this episode, and it's angry...because of TRio, of course. Likewise, because of that there's a man who needs to deliver medicine but can't, because he's hurt. To try and do so, Ash and the others use Noibat to make their way through a cave, though TRio's actions lead to a cave-in that separates them. Ash goes forward and encounters the ornery Zapdos.

...so Noibat can evolve and save his big brother, of course!

Here's where the important fact of the episode comes into play. Both Talonflame and Hawlucha attempt to take on Zapdos, landing a hit or two, but otherwise not having much effect. Noibat, naturally, is worried about his big brother, but it becomes a distraction, sending Hawlucha plummeting. And like almost every evolution before in this series, Noibat won't stand for it, his feelings of wanting to save his big brother causing him to evolve and weaken Zapdos. More TRio shenanigans follow, but Ash makes quick work of them. And for anyone paying attention, yes, Ash now has a fully evolved team. However, it's important to note that Noivern is, by all rights, still a baby of the team. He's had an increase in strength, but is still the weakest link. Either way, largely just an episode to showcase Noibat's evolution and how much these Pokémon all work together as a team, even evolving for one another.

Team Flare experiments on Z-2.
Note the presence of the Megalith in the background.

While the gang continues on from there, Team Flare has retreated back to their labs, where Xerosic begins experimenting on Z-2. In and of itself, this isn't a wholly remarkable scene...until you realize that as he tests this, the Megalith is right there in the background. These two things are invariably connected and will play a role later, but for now, they're merely something resting on the backburner.

Squishy witnesses the potential between people and Pokémon,
it begins the last stage of his own silent development.

What we get instead is a rather simple episode: Serena and Bonnie want to see a diamond exhibit, Ash agrees to the point of booking rooms (look at that development as a person, letting the girls enjoy their stuff) only for them to learn there's a guy picking locks. There's also a Binacle that's separated. Naturally, TRio targets said lockpicker, but he turns on them leading to a situation where the lockpicker and his Binacle half must work together to save the Pokémon at the Center! Like I said, fairly simple, but what's gained from it is the driving force behind the end result that is Squishy's development. Watching human and Pokémon working together and not give up in the face of darkness tells Squishy that maybe they can get along, and humanity is worth fighting for.

But more on that later, as the group helps the lockpicker and his master reconcile before moving on towards the Master Class!

The Master Class: Serena's Dream!

All of Serena's rivals have gathered for the Master Class.

After support from her mother, Serena is standing firm and giving her all.

At long last, we arrive at Glorio City, site of the Master Class, the end result of Serena's journey to this point. Before it can all begin, we're introduced to some of that pre-Showcase stuff. For one thing, all of Serena's rivals are here: Shauna, Miette, Nini, and yes, Jessie are all ready to try and take the crown from Aria. It gives that sense that all of them are playing for keeps. Serena is no different, receiving more encouragement from her mother (while clutching to her ribbon, as well). Mother and daughter have come a long way from where they were at the beginning of the series. Serena was running away then, but now she's standing firm.

Each of Serena's keys shows how far she's come as a person
through her journey as a Performer in the series.

With everyone just about ready, the Performers make their final preparations, with Serena and her entire team encouraging one another, making one last promise on Braixen's stick for the upcoming competition. Shortly after, it finally begins...and it's huge! Not only is it about the Showcase Hall, but much of Kalos is watching (including some cameos from Sycamore, Korrina, Goodra, etc.). With Serena emerging onto the stage, she reflects on her journey up to this point, with each key representing her stumbles, her victories, and her journey making it here. It's a great reflection that shows how much she's changed.

Palermo is, naturally, watching the Master Class.

Aria's immense popularity all but spells out the result.

Soon after, they all stand on the stage, alongside Aria, who's noted to be very popular. It already tells the viewer the result, but it also sparks that question in Serena which Palermo asked of her (the woman also attending the event). What is it that Serena lacks to defeat Aria? That popularity is a hint, and one that Serena understands sooner than later. For now, though, the actual Showcase begins, going straight into Free Performances. Said performances are rather barebones this episode, whittling them all down to the three semifinalists in Serena, Shauna and Jessie.

Nini and Miette both show how they could never be Kalos Queen;
though Miette takes it better.

Serena agrees to hold on to the others' dreams in their stead.

However, that's really not what the major focus of the episode is, in the end. The performances are nice, but a mere setup. The point of each of them is how said characters react to what occurs. Naturally, Serena progresses to the semifinals, but that means two other characters fall along the way: Nini and Miette. This is rather foregone, but what matters is their reaction: both shed tears. As we remember from XY 64, a Kalos Queen must always wear the most dazzling smile for the public. Neither of them do, and it shows they weren't ready to be Kalos Queen, so it's no wonder they failed. But just as important is the two of them entrusting their dream to Serena, and her accepting. It's similar to Anistar, and will be similar to Ash later. It's not about whether she fulfills it or not, but that Serena gives it her all to try to do so, all so no one can be left with regrets. It highlights her character.

And as Serena thanks Shauna for introducing her to the dream of her lifetime, the first episode of the Master Class comes to an end.

Jessie's certainly developed, but her vanity is what
really makes her ineligible as a Kalos Queen, in the end.

Shauna also shows that she's the same as the others, crying at her loss,
rather than smiling to make other smile.

Serena's semifinal performance both adapts from old performances,
and hints at the final one, leaving one stage to go.

The second immediately picks up with the semi-final performances. Jessie gives a unique one, as always, while Shauna does...the same thing...Serena, meanwhile, does a light variation on one of her old ones, while introducing an element that goes to play in her final performance. However, in the process, she injures her hand. Does it affect her performance? No, but there's very much a reason for it. So, as one could guess, Serena proceeds to the finals against Aria. Jessie shows off her own development by taking the loss surprisingly well (if with her trademarked lack of modesty), while Shauna cries into Serena's chest. Both have proven they couldn't have made Queen with their attitudes, but are entrusting their dreams, nonetheless.

Serena hurts her hand horribly, and past Serena would have
certainly given up at this point...

...but now, Serena refuses to give up. No matter how hard,
she'll see it through until the end.

Of course, trying to go against Aria is easier said than done with a sprained hand, and Palermo insists that Serena pulls out of the competition. She doesn't. Serena has come too far to give up now. Not only does this moment serve as a point of comparison to Aria, but it also represents, for the moment the current end result of Serena's development. In the beginning, she was a girl who would give up when she got bored or it got too hard. Now, however, she refuses to give up, even though her sprained hand gives her almost no chance of winning. Seeing that, Palermo has no choice but to let her perform.

Serena's spectacular final performance, evolving from her rudimentary first.
Like her character evolution, it's reached a near endpoint,
taking everything she's had in performances to reach this moment.

Serena goes on to give the performance of her career. Not only is it spectactularly choreographed and envisioned, but more than that, it is the end result of all her performances before. With a combination of a Stone Edge ring, a fire ring, dancing atop the stones, Fairy Wind rising upwards, Dark Pulse, Swift and fire collision for a beautiful finish, it is a fusion and the final evolution of her performance, showing how far she's come as a Performer...

Serena loses to Aria, because she realizes what she was missing, in the end.

This moment of realizing a Kalos Queen is not about the self, but the selflessness
is a defining moment for Serena and her future dream.
Up until now, it was for herself; now it's not.

In a callback to XY 40, Ash reminds Serena that nothing she's done
is pointless, showing that she's walked away with the start of a new dream.

Even if, in the end, she can't match up to Aria. In fact, she already knows why: because Aria gives to others, whether it be her smile or encouragement or help to a perfect stranger. Because a Queen isn't about the self, which until this point, Serena's arc had been (not giving up and developing herself) but about helping others. That's an important distinction, and the reason why Serena lost. In fact, seeing that, Serena knows that she's not ready to be Kalos Queen, but unlike her rivals, smiles anyway. In the end, she walks away with something: that to be Queen, she needs to give to others in the way Aria gave to her. As stated many times earlier, this is the start of where her true dream will progress by the series end. And just as Ash says in a scene moments later, despite the fact she's lost, she's walked away with something. It's a callback to their conversation by the river in XY 40, when Ash stated that nothing they do is pointless. That's true, as Serena walked away with something, and is moving towards something greater, her dream of helping people and giving them smiles taking root inside her.

Serena declines Palermo's offer to find the answer to her next dream,
and to finish the focus on herself, so that she can focus on others,
finally to be satisfied with herself.

To do so, however, Serena turns down an offer by Palermo, who tells her to call when she's satisfied with herself. It hearkens back to the question in XYZ 16 about whether her performance satisfied herself. Palermo, naturally, wants Serena to be satisfied with herself so that the focus of her performances will no longer be about herself, but about others, which she can only do once she's satisfied. Of course, this is a question for Serena to answer on her own as her journey with Ash continues, finding the last piece of her dream to drive her forward; the piece that may one day allow her to be Kalos Queen.

With that, the Master Class concludes. Some may have found it rushed, but I find it was largely fine, other than Aria's horribly cut off performance. Guess it was meant to show that no matter what Aria's performance was, Serena already lost because Aria was too popular and granted too many smiles. A few things could have been allocated differently, but what the event really did well was bring Serena to a point at the cusp of her development, about to finally complete it, even if there are quite a few episodes before that happens.

So, with Serena's big development out of the way, we now turn our eyes towards Ash, and the ultimate struggle he is about to endure in Kalos.

That, my friends, will be discussed in the upcoming Part 7: Ash-Greninja.

Dare to Be Silly,
Epicocity