While Liam was strategising, Shiranui found someone who wanted to evolve their Machoke and traded Tsudzumaru. After trading the newly-evolved Machamp back to the star-struck trainer, Shiranui adjusted his team to make room for Higitsune. He went outside and drew Yoto out of the Doublade's sheaths. "Yoto, for all that you've done for me, I want to give you this as a token of my appreciation and gratitude," said Shiranui, presenting Yoto with a Dusk Stone. The Doublade was surprised at first, but one of his purple and yellow cloths reached out and wrapped around the stone being offered. Yoto started glowing again only this time, the sheath assembly on Shiranui's back flew off and merged with the two swords, becoming a shield that attached to one of the cloths. The cloths became bent and the two swords became one long sword. The glow subsided to reveal a black and gold Aegislash with a red-tipped blade. Shiranui pulled out his Pokédex to scan his new-look friend. "Aegislash, the Royal Sword Pokémon and the evolved form of Doublade. Apparently, it can detect innate qualities of leadership. According to legend, whoever it recognizes is destined to become king."
"People really believed that?" asked Shiranui to himself as Yoto settled himself on Shiranui's back, covering the backpack with his shield.
Shiranui arrived at the gym, ready to win the final badge for the Kalos region.