>>36306912The writers wanted to give Talonflame a starring battle so they more or less gave it a counterpart. Unfezant was chosen as that counterpart because it is a regional bird, and also because the male form is the only regional bird that Ash didn't catch. This is similar to how Salamence was created to be Noivern's counterpart, which was also a draw. Talonflame and Unfezant had similar moves and had a draw.
>>36307089Because Alain was shown defeating Elite Four trainers. Ash stood no chance against that.
