It was the end of 6 long weeks of constant battling and Sebastian was relieved that this would be his last battle. Of course, he had fun, but he and his Pokemon were growing weary, if only mentally. There was no doubt how pampered he and the rest of the contestants had been throughout the tournament. As he rose in the ranks, the services and goods provided to him only increased. Sponsors from across the world offered him money and merchandise. He'd become one of the most well-known Pokemon trainers in the world, as well as the top 8 Trainers. His opponent, however, could have arguably been the most popular.

He couldn't judge such things accurately and he cared little for fame. He loved Pokemon and rush of working with them to overcome struggle and difficulties. It was only a game to him, a game he could play very well. His Pokemon were equally adept at the game, if only because of him. It was lucky they allowed only 8 Pokemon in this last battle since that was all he had acquired throughout his years as a Trainer. His bond with each of them was strong and intimate. They cared deeply for each other. 

The crowd cheered over the announcer when his name was called and his achievements listed off. Sebastian waved modestly but walked determinedly to his spot on the battlefield. The domed arena with an open roof was more than full. Most patrons resorted to standing in the aisles despite the fire and safety hazard it caused. The large field of the arena wasn't utilized completely. The grassy floor had a standard-sized court to battle upon. At least ten more could be lined up next to it and reach the walls of the field. 

His opponent was called to the field and a roar equal to his own overwhelmed the announcer until she was comfortably within her square. He bowed slightly to her and waved warmly. A smile could be seen on his face. He respected his opponent, knowing her skill in Pokemon battling if only from the tournament itself. It seemed like a half-hour, but the regulations of the battle could finally be communicated clearly with the din dying.

"Welcome Pokemon Trainers to the Grand Pokemon Championship!" The crowd blasted once more. "After six weeks, the top two Trainers have been determined! We've seen them battle scores of Trainers from all across the land and in many different styles! And because of that, this battle will be like no other! Rules will change from round to round and the Trainers will have to keep focused to not be disqualified! In addition, the use of items have been banned for this battle! Only the strength and endurance of the Pokemon themselves is to prove the victor this day!"

The crowd continued to cheer and whoop. Sebastian was not aware how complex this battle would be. Thinking about it a little more, he could see why they were to battle in the largest arena where no battles were held until now. The other arenas had various themes to them but this one seemed to have none. He expected the floor to move under him and change the environment from time to time. This invigorated him with an excited anxiety. He looked around the arena and the people with a slight smirk on his face.

"The first round will be a Single Battle. However, the Pokemon you choose will be chosen for you!" The crowd erupted with shock and invigoration. "Sophie, you will battle with Dusknoir! Sebastian, you will battle with Bisharp! The substitution of Pokemon is also prohibited for this battle! And," he added, "if a Pokemon is knocked outside the square, they will forfeit the round!"

The announcer paused and Sebastian took this as the time to release his chosen Pokemon. A few moments passed as he re-evaluated the court and realized how small it really was. But he shifted his body and Bisharp emerged from the Pokeball on his belt. The announcer called the beginning of the battle when both Pokemon were present on the field. "Iron Defense!" he called out, knowing his Bisharp was slower than Dusknoir.