Ash has accomplished a lot of great things throughout Pokémon anime, from earning badges to fighting in tournaments at the highest levels. However, what few people can remember is the time when Ash became Pokémon royalty.
While adventuring in the Kalos region, Ash came across a place known as the Battle Chateau. Fans of the game may recognize the name, as Battle Chateau is the location of high-level battles in Pokémon X & Y. In the anime, that’s still true, but Battle Chateau is portrayed as a club. The social ministry focuses on upholding more than chivalry values with strict rules about fighting. Members of the Battle Chateau club are ranked and can only challenge others in the same rank by throwing white gloves at them. Records of wins and losses are kept, allowing Battle Chateau trainers to increase their rank. However, rank is not just a measure of one’s strength; it’s really a noble title inspired by the knights of old Kalos.
Ash the Baron
When Ash arrived at the Battle Chateau, he did so at the same time as a new friend who was also hoping to join the Battle Chateau. Two newcomers were pitted against each other, with the winner gaining access to the Battle Chateau and gaining its base rank. Ash’s opponent chooses Fletchling, while Ash chooses Pikachu, giving him a type advantage. Ash took down Fletchling with ease, and as a result he was given the title of Baron, along with an elegant cloak and medal. After his match, Ash stayed behind to watch another of his friends, Viola, compete against the Gym Leader Grant for the top honor, Grand Duke/Duchess. Grant eventually won the match, showing Ash the battle in the gym would be ready for him soon.
Although Ash never visited the Battle Chateau again, he still holds that noble rank and title, meaning he’s been a royal ever since. The title might not come with any land or power, but anyway Ash was hardly interested in such things. Since anime almost never acknowledges any kind of government exists, it seems unlikely that anyone can contradict these titles, but Battle Chateau’s clearly long history is a strong enough tradition. to consider this title to mean something regardless.
Baron Ash’s royal title may not be particularly related to Pokémon anime, but that’s just one more feat to add to Ash’s list of Pokémon achievements over the years.
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