1/14/2019
Hello, guys! It's been a while, hasn't it?
I feel bad for missing the five-year anniversary of Best Wishes, but I really had nothing prepared for it. I didn't have another chapter ready, and I didn't have time to write a special one-shot or anything like that. But luckily, I've started writing again, and I've been able to get a few more chapters written for spring. If everything goes planned, Best Wishes will return on May 10th, when Detective Pikachu hits theaters! (A movie that has no right to look interesting, but it does anyway. Oh, well. :))
If we're going in chronological order, this one-shot (or three-shot) takes place in between Unova's Survival Crisis and Beauties Battling for Pride and Prestige. It's almost like A Tasteful First Date, which took place in between Lost at the Stamp Rally and Alice vs. the Champion. I just didn't want to publish it under Best Wishes.
It started out as a one-shot, and then a two-shot, and when I realized there was just so much of it to write, it evolved into a three-shot. ;) It's not as strong as my other work, but I still have a soft spot for it. I'll be posting the other two chapters later this week. I hope you like it just the same. (P.S. I couldn't think of a better name for this story, so here you go.)
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon or anything related to Pokemon. I simply own Alice, my OC.
~Room for Seconds~
(1)
"Are you sure you can handle it?" A teasing tone laces Iris's words, and she places her hands on her hips with her eyes still glued to mine.
"Positive," I reassure her, tugging at the hem of my white sleeping shirt. "I can't keep this up; I have to make a move sometimes, too. It can't just be him."
But those chocolate hues are still doubtful. In her hair, Axew wears a similar expression. Even Pikachu, who's perched on my shoulder, gives me a strange look.
Currently, I'm trying to convince them I do have guts, and I'll prove it by asking Cilan out on a date tomorrow. I have no idea where to go or what to do, but that's not the primary focus here. Right now, I have to prove to Iris (and myself) that I can be brave when it comes to relationships.
Iris rolls her eyes before flopping down on the bed. The two of us are in the guest room of Cynthia's villa; Cilan is helping Jervis tidy up the kitchen right now.
"When are you going to ask him?"
"Right when he gets here."
"Should I leave, or...what?" She suddenly sits back up, a smirk plastered on her face. "You're not gonna do anything secretive, right?"
My hands fly up to my face, which is already bathed in heat and scarlet shades. "What—no! N-no! Nothing like that! Ugh!" I don't need those images in my head!
"I'm kidding!" she manages to say through her laughs. "But seriously, do you want me to leave? I can if you don't want an audience."
"...It's up to you," I mutter, shifting on my own bed. She may want to stay, just in case she doesn't believe I'll actually go through with it. "But if he says yes, will you be okay here, by yourself?"
Whenever Cilan and I leave for somewhere together, whether it's on a date or to run a short errand, I always feel a little guilty for leaving Iris out of the picture. Although she's mentioned countless times before that she supports us and our relationship, I always feel bad about not including her.
She simply shrugs her shoulders, reaching up and giving Axew a pet on his little green head. "I'll be fine. Maybe I'll even train with Cynthia, if she's not too busy. Axew could always use some extra training with Garchomp." Her little Dragon-type cheers at the mention of Cynthia's prime Pokémon.
"Okay, if you're sure..."
I pull my knees up to my chest, resting my chin on them as I stare ahead toward the wall. I try to ignore the sweat that gathers on my palms, or the frantic beating of my heart.
What if Cilan doesn't want to go? Or what if he doesn't like the city I've chosen? What if something happens, and one of us gets hurt? What if we run into Team Rocket again? I know they've been quiet ever since they tried and failed to capture Meloetta, but I wouldn't put it past them to try something again.
Calm down. I take a deep breath, my eyes fluttering shut. Just talk to him like you normally would. Imagine you're going out as best friends, not as potential lovers.
The familiar sound of footsteps in the hallway suddenly gets louder with each passing second. My eyes snap open just as Pikachu leaps off my shoulder and onto the covers of the bed. He sends me a knowing smile.
Damn it. Even the Pokémon know what's up.
Iris jumps off her bed as Cilan walks into the room. "I just have to get something real quick; I'll be right back!" But before she flies out the door, she gives me a smirk. And little Axew even gives me a thumbs-up.
Thanks, guys.
Cilan gives me a smile before crossing over to the bed next to mine. As he rummages through the middle drawer of the dresser between us, I twirl my fingers around a loose thread on my shirt.
It's now or never.
"Hey, Cilan?"
He straightens himself up, his neatly-folded pajamas resting in his arms. "What is it, Alice?"
I clear my throat before gazing up at him. "How would you like to go somewhere tomorrow? You know, just the two of us?" Am I repeating the same words he said to me back in Nimbasa City, when he asked me out?
...Probably.
To my relief, I'm met with a smile. "I'd love to. Any idea where we would go?"
Damn it! "Uh, I'm not sure yet... But I know Undella Town has some beautiful sites to see. Cynthia told me all about them."
It's not exactly a lie. Cynthia has told me about Undella Town and the many attractions it hosts. Just recently, after we made it back from our trip to Humilau City with Cameron, she told us about the Marine Tube—a walkway underwater where you can see special Water-type Pokémon up close. And I'm sure there are plenty of other sites and villas around the town; we just have to look for them.
Luckily, Cilan seems to accept it as an answer. "Alright, then, when should we head out?"
"...Tomorrow morning, if that's okay with you." Wow, I never noticed how involved planning a date really is.
"That sounds perfect." Shutting the drawer, he smiles warmly at me. "I'm looking forward to it."
"So am I." I bet more than you are.
When he leaves the room to change into his pajamas, Iris leaps back in, her chocolate eyes wide in disbelief. Axew chuckles at his Trainer's stunned stare.
I lean back on the pillows, my heart soaring. "Well? I told you I could do it."
Now, to mentally prepare myself for tomorrow.
I wake up early the next morning and move silently throughout the room, careful not to disturb Iris or Cilan. As I'm organizing my backpack, I have to remind myself not to get distracted by Cilan's sleeping form. But I can't help it—he looks so peaceful and adorable!
The sun is barely poking out from behind the trees when I creep out of the room and down the stairs. Pikachu yawns from his place on my shoulder; he's not used to being up this early.
But when I arrive at the kitchen for my daily glass of Berry Juice, I realize I'm not alone. Cynthia sits at the counter, dressed in her usual blue shirt and black leggings. A small cup of tea rests between her hands.
She sends me a small smile when I enter the kitchen. "Good morning, Alice. You're up early."
"Good morning, Cynthia."
When I reach the fridge, I grab the carton of Berry Juice and pour some into a small glass. Just because I enjoy being "pampered" by Cynthia's butler, Jervis, doesn't mean I've forgotten how to do simple tasks for myself.
"Are you planning to do some training for the Unova League?" Cynthia questions as I sit across from her at the counter.
"Actually..." My mouth goes dry; it's hard to swallow all of a sudden. "I'm taking a break from training for today. Pikachu, Serperior, and the others deserve a rest."
It looks like I've caught her off guard with my response. "Then what do you have planned? I honestly can't imagine you doing anything else besides training—since you're so headstrong and determined, of course," she adds quickly with a smile.
But I'm charmed that's how she sees me—headstrong and determined. Not clumsy or childish, like some others would say.
"...I'm actually going...on a date...with Cilan..."
I keep my eyes on the juice glass as I swirl it around. I bite my lip, awaiting Cynthia's reply.
"Oh? ...That's sweet." When I glance up at her, her smile is genuine—not at all forced. "Where are you two heading?"
"You see...that's the problem. I'm not sure where to go. I asked him out this time, and I really didn't plan ahead." I let out a sigh before gulping down the juice in one swift movement. "What do I do?"
But right when the words leave my lips, I feel stupid. I shouldn't really be bothering the Sinnoh region Champion, of all people, about my relationship drama. She's got better things to worry about; she definitely doesn't have to sit around and help me make a good impression on my crush.
However, she chuckles softly, and answers, "I'm not sure about Undella Town, since I only visit when I'm on vacation, but I'm sure Nurse Joy over at the Pokémon Center has a few ideas. She'll recommend quite the romantic setting for you two." She winks at me, and my face erupts in flames once again.
Well, at least I have some sort of a plan now. It's definitely better than what I had before.
It's not long before Iris and Cilan are up and moving, too. By then, Jervis is bustling about in the kitchen, preparing a light yet delicious breakfast for us.
Iris sits next to Cynthia at the table, while Cilan and I sit next to each other. I try my best to ignore the smiles Cynthia shoots in my direction.
I'm so focused on avoiding the prodding eyes of Cynthia and Iris and trying to enjoy my breakfast that Jervis's questions completely catches me off guard:
"Would you like me to drive you two into Undella Town after breakfast?"
The piece of toast in my mouth lodges its way into my throat, and Cilan nervously shifts in his seat next to me. And even Pikachu splutters and coughs on his Pokémon food.
One look at a smiling Cynthia informs me she's told Jervis about our date already.
"Uh, well..." I force myself to glance at Cilan. In turn, he shrugs.
"That would be nice, thank you, but you don't have to go out of your way." Always the gentleman.
"He's right. It's really no big deal."
Iris and Axew can barely hold in their giggles. I'm really glad Dawn's not here right now. I don't need another one teasing me.
But Jervis simply smiles. "No, I insist. It'll be much quicker than walking."
"...Okay, then. Thank you..."
I steal a glance a glance at Cynthia, who winks an eye at me. My cheeks heat up once again, but I try to focus on eating my breakfast.
After breakfast, Iris disappears into the backyard with Cynthia. As Cilan and I climb into the limo, I can hear the sounds of battling. Axew and Garchomp must be training.
Once Jervis starts the car and begins driving down the road, an awkward silence blankets the three of us. Well, four, counting Pikachu. The little Electric-type refused to be left behind this time.
No matter. He seems supportive of my relationship with Cilan. I don't have to worry about him breaking us up or trying to keep us away from each other.
"Where would you like me to drop you off?" Jervis asks from the driver's seat. Our eyes meet in the little mirror on top.
"Uh...I'm not sure... Cilan, where do you want to go?"
He must've seen the urgency in my eyes, because he nods to me understandingly. "You could stop at the Pokémon Center. I think Pansage and Pikachu are in need of some pampering."
As he speaks, he unveils a Poké Ball from his belt. It twitches in his hand at his words. And Pikachu wags his tail excitedly from his spot on my shoulder.
Jervis nods and continues driving. A few moments later, we're in Undella Town, and it's just as gorgeous as I remember it.
The few buildings it has to offer are coated in silver, and like I've said before, it contrasts well to the sand and beaches around it. It's not crowded at all; only a few people wander on the streets, with their Pokémon either behind them, at their side, or in their arms. When I peek out the window of the limo, I can see a flock of Pidove soaring overhead.
The Pokémon Center rests right in the heart of the town, and when we reach it, Jervis parks the car and climbs out. A few seconds later, he holds the door open for us.
"What time would you prefer to be picked up?" he asks once we're all out.
"Uh..." Again, I look over to Cilan for help, and he simply smiles. "I'm not sure. We'll let you know. Thanks for driving us here."
"My pleasure. Enjoy your day." And with that, he bows slightly to us before climbing back into the limo. With a rumble of the engine, it pulls away and begins to disappear down the road.
When Cilan and I turn to face the Pokémon Center, there's a flash of blue light before us. Little Pansage appears before us, cheering his name.
Cilan holds his arm out, and the little Grass-type jumps up and swings himself onto his Trainer's shoulder. He waves over to Pikachu, who smiles and twitches his bolt-shaped tail.
"How would you like to see Nurse Joy and Audino? You two deserve a little pampering."
The two Pokémon cheer; Cilan and I exchange smiles at this. Our Pokémon are like our children, now that I think about it. And the thought releases a swarm of butterflies in my stomach.
What a way to put it.
Once we step into the Pokémon Center, we're greeted by the cold, fresh burst of air conditioning—a welcome feeling compared to the late summer sun of Unova. The main desk sits straight ahead, with Nurse Joy taping away at a computer. A smile laces up her lips, and when we get closer to her, I can hear her humming lightly.
"Welcome to the Pokémon Center!" she greets us with a smile. Her pretty Audino steps out from behind her, her pink ears twitching. "What can I do for you?"
Pikachu crawls over onto the top of my head as I reply, "We just want to spoil Pikachu and Pansage a little bit." And they deserve it, especially since they helped out take down Team Rocket a few days ago.
"No problem! Audino and I will have them feeling much better in no time!"
At her words, Audino steps out from behind the desk, wheeling out a little silver cart. A cheering Pikachu and Pansage leap down and onto the cart, and wave goodbye to us as Audino wheels them away into a back room.
"Is there anything else I can do for you?" Nurse Joy's pink eyes are locked on us as she gathers up a few papers and folders from the desk.
Now's my chance. "Actually, yes. Cynthia told us you might know a few special places to check out around Undella Town."
"Of course! What's the occasion?"
A romantic date for two.
But of course, neither myself nor Cilan can say that out loud. Instead, the two of us shift uncomfortably in our spots. I reel my hands behind me and clasp them together.
"Oh, I see..." Joy giggles behind her hand. "Well, there are a few restaurants around here, as well as some romantic attractions."
My face goes scarlet; I can't speak. Thankfully, Cilan steps in: "I'm afraid neither of us are accustomed to such attractions. We would appreciate something...a little more different."
"Different?" Joy repeats the word over and over again, like she's tasting it.
Oh, boy, now I'm really starting to sound like Cilan.
"Well...judging by your Pikachu and Pansage... Oh! I've got it!" She snaps her fingers and beams brightly. "There's a little city not too far from here. It's called Black City, and every summer, they host the Black City Battle Competition. It's a two-day event, and it mainly focuses on the endurance and strategy portions of Pokémon battling. It starts first thing tomorrow morning; I'm sure they're still accepting Trainers."
Another battle tournament? But we just finished the Junior Cup! Besides, I'm not sure Cilan is willing to enter another tournament so soon after the last one. I want to do something we can both enjoy, not just me.
When I look at Cilan, I can tell he's thinking the same thing. "I'm not sure..."
But Joy doesn't seem hurt at all. "I only brought it up because of your Pokémon. You've both seem to have raised them well—I can see it in their faces. Besides, the Black City Battle Competition specializes not in Single Battles, but Tag Battles."
That alone perks my interest. "Wait, what?" Like the Hearthome City Tag Battle Competition back in Sinnoh?
"That's right. But it doesn't have to be random—you have the option to choose your partners."
My jaw drops. Really?! You can do that?! I've never heard of a competition where you choose your partners! Especially if it's one in Unova! They've always assigned you partners and opponents!
"But of course, it's your choice." Joy sends us a smile, but I secretly suspect it's leaning toward a smirk. "I'll be right back with your Pikachu and Pansage. Audino should be taking care of them right now."
She disappears into the back room after Audino, leaving me and my date alone with our thoughts. My mind buzzes with this new information.
It does sound like a lot of fun; it doesn't sound too romantic and mushy, and in my mind at least, it's the perfect way to bring me and Cilan closer. We've always paired up in Tag Battles; we have a special connection when battling. And a whole tournament surrounded by that sounds like a dream come true.
There's only one problem: memories of the Junior Cup are still fresh in my mind, and I think they still are in Cilan's mind, too. It seems too soon to enter yet another tournament, especially since it's been barely a few weeks since the last one.
But just as I ponder over how to bring up the subject to Cilan, he speaks first. "That competition definitely sounds unique. I've never heard of a Tag Battle Competition in Unova before."
"Yeah. It's always been Single Battles." The Club Battle Tournament, the Clubsplosion, the Junior Cup, you name it. Single Battles are Unova's specialty, I guess.
He glances over to me, his emerald eyes sparkling in the light. "You sound like you've had experience in this sort of thing before. Have you entered one of these competitions before?"
My neck and face heat up when I nod. "Yeah, back in Sinnoh. Dawn, Brock, and I all competed in the Hearthome City Tag Battle Competition. But we didn't get to choose our partners—we were assigned them. And lucky for me, I got paired up with my rival, Paul," I add a bit dryly.
I can hear him stifle a giggle. "And how did that work out?"
"Surprisingly, not too bad. But I have absolutely no idea how we managed to pull through."
I shudder at the memory. That competition also brings back horrid memories of Paul abandoning his Chimchar because he was "too weak." But it's his own fault. He kept pushing Chimchar to do better, even when the little Pokémon needed rest.
"...Well, I certainly hope we won't have to face that kind of trouble in this competition."
Wait, what?
My eyes widen at his words. "You...want to enter it...?" Is he serious? Or is he just toying with me?
He shrugs and diverts his eyes from mine. "We don't have to," he says quickly. "But if you want to, I'm sure it'll be quite the experience."
"Yeah, but do you want to enter?"
"...If you want to enter."
I'm getting nowhere with him. "I don't want to drag you to something you don't want to do. Do you want to enter the tournament?"
"Only if you want to."
"Cilan, answer the question!"
But I can't keep up the assertive tone, even when I playfully shove him. The two of us burst into laughter, our faces red with embarrassment.
"Yes, I would like to enter the tournament," he finally answers with a gentle smile. "Do you want to enter?"
"You already know my answer," I reply with a wink. "Let's tell Pikachu and Pansage once they're out. I'm sure they'll love the idea."
Ten minutes have passed before Nurse Joy and Audino return, wheeling a happy and healthy pair of Pokémon out on a silver cart. Cilan and I have spent those ten minutes wandering around the inside of the Pokémon Center, making small talk and simply enjoying each other's company.
But the two of us spring over to the counter once Pikachu and Pansage come back. Pansage hops onto Cilan's shoulder, and Pikachu nestles himself on the top of my head.
"Your Pokémon are both feeling much better," Joy reveals with a smile. "They're just the sweetest!"
"Audino," the Normal-type coos softly from her side.
"Thanks, guys." Pikachu flicks his tail and snuggles deeper into my hat. "Hey, buddy, how do you feel about entering another tournament?"
He leans his head down to face me, his eyebrow raised cutely. "Pika?"
"Yeah, Cilan and I want to enter the Black City Battle Competition. But it's a Tag Battle tournament, so we're gonna team up. Is that okay with you two?"
Pikachu cheers his name at once, and Pansage nods eagerly. Cilan and I smile once more at their reactions.
"I'm so happy for you!" Joy chuckles. "You guys better hurry, though. Black City is only a fifteen-minute walk from here, but spots are filling up fast."
"We will, Nurse Joy. By the way, do you happen to have directions to Black City?"
It's not long before Cilan and I are on the road, with Pikachu and Pansage walking ahead of us. Thanks to Nurse Joy, Cilan now has the directions to Black City loaded into the little electronic map he always carries. Right now, his eyes are glued to it.
"We should let Iris and Cynthia know we won't be back for a few days," he says quietly. "Didn't Nurse Joy say the tournament lasts two days?"
"Yeah... I feel kinda bad we're leaving Iris out of the fun," I mutter, shoving my hands into the pockets of my skirt. My jacket is currently wrapped around my waist.
Cilan nods, folding up the map and placing it back into his pocket. "I do, too. But...we don't get many days like this..." He's quiet for a moment. "...I want to enjoy it..."
He literally just said he wants to enjoy the limited time he has with me. I'm screaming inside right now!
Pikachu seems to notice, too, and he glances over his shoulder to smirk at me. In response, I kick up a tuft of dirt and dust at him, to which he laughs and runs away to catch up with Pansage.
So I try to focus the conversation on other, more comfortable topics. "I wonder what Black City is like? Have you heard of it before?"
"Only in stories," he says, shrugging his shoulders. "It's said to be the home of many strong Pokémon Trainers, and it's known for its vigorous battling and training sites."
"Really?!" Now I want to see it even more! "Is it big, like Castelia City?" Or Nimbasa City, or Virbank City? Or is it on the smaller side, like Mistralton City and Nacrene City?
Cilan shakes his head, smiling softly at me. "Honestly, I'm not sure. I've never been there to see it in person before. This will be my first time visiting."
Great! Then we'll be experiencing it together! But I don't dare say that out loud; I can only take so much embarrassment in one day.
The next few minutes breeze by, with the four of us walking in comfortable silence. The trees around us begin to space out, and the sidewalks give way to long silvery roads. In the distance, I can see the top of a large black tower.
We're almost there! Black City, you'd better watch out!
The sight of Black City stuns us all into silence.
Numerous buildings, all coated with a shade of black, stretch up high around us. The streets are bustling with both people and Pokémon. The large black tower I saw in the distance is perched in the center of the city, and many Trainers are gathered around it.
Is that where they're holding the competition?
But my question is answered when I look to the left. Gleaming in the sun is a black and silver stadium. It somewhat looks like the one at the Club Battle Tournament, now that I think about it.
"Is that where we sign up?"
"It appears so," Cilan answers, holding Pansage in his arms. Pikachu crawls down from my shoulder and into my own arms, as well.
The four of us inch closer to the stadium. Upon closer inspection, I'm able to spot a little table perched outside the entrance. A boy and a girl, both with electric blue hair, sit behind it. From their tan and black jumpsuits and high boots, I assume they're Ace Trainers.
"Hi! Are you still accepting people for the tournament?" Pikachu wags his tail hopefully at my words.
The girl nods eagerly, her two long pigtails bobbing slightly. "We sure are! Are you two planning to register together?" Her pretty green eyes flick from me to Cilan.
"Yup."
"Okay! I'll just need you two to fill out these forms." She hands us both a piece of paper. Again, it looks like the registration form for the Club Battle Tournament.
As she hands us both pens filled with blue ink, the boy next to her chuckles. "You guys made it just in time. Spots are filling up quickly."
I want to reply to him, but I'm too focused on writing my answers down on the sheet of paper. Scribbling down my name and hometown, I ponder over the directions to the next section:
In tradition of focusing on strategy and endurance, only two Pokémon per Trainer are allowed for this event.
Only two? Not three, like the others?
Cilan seems to catch onto this, as well. "Why only two Pokémon? Is it a special rule?"
"It goes hand-in-hand with the theme of the whole tournament," the boy answers proudly, leaning back in his chair. "The goal is to encourage the Trainers to plan ahead and choose their teams wisely, so they'll be able to take on any opponent. It also tests the Pokémon's endurance, having them compete in multiple battles in a short span of time."
I guess that makes sense. Sheesh, these Black City Trainers really are obsessed with battling!
Of course, I write down Pikachu as my first Pokémon. I know I can always count on my little buddy to pull through. But my second Pokémon takes me a moment to think about.
I have Serperior with me, and she's gotten pretty strong. But I also have Oshawott and Cubchoo, as well as Pignite. And I can't forget about Gabite. But Oshawott and Cubchoo have a size disadvantage, and if they're put up against a Darmanitan or something, they could get squashed. And Pignite hasn't been battling too much recently; I don't think he's ready for a tournament just yet.
It's down to Serperior and Gabite—who to choose? The grass snake, or the indigo dragon?
With a smile, I write down my answer.
I steal a glance at Cilan's form, as well. He's written down the names of Pansage (of course he would) and Crustle. I know both of them will be thrilled.
The two of us hand in our forms, and both Ace Trainers skim them over. Finally, they grant us little lanyards with numbers on them. I have "15" and Cilan has "16".
"Make sure to wear these tomorrow at the tournament, since you'll be identified by numbers. Your pictures aren't shown on the screen like other tournaments; you'll have to seek out your opponents yourselves," the girl explains with a smirk.
"The tournament begins exactly at noon tomorrow," the boy adds, nodding to us. "Good luck to both of you!"
"Thank you very much."
"We'll do our best!"
"Pika!"
"Pan!"
"So, we've got the whole day free now," I find myself saying to my crush. I gently flick the lanyard back and forth, swinging it from its spot around my neck. "Do you want to explore the city?"
He meets my eyes with a smile. "Of course! Where should we go first?"
I scan the area for an interesting place to snoop around in. But through the people and Pokémon bustling around, it's hard to focus. I inch closer to Cilan; I don't want to lose him in this crowd.
Finally, my eyes land on a little silvery building. "Let's go in there. I think it might be a store."
When we get closer to the building, I realize it's indeed a small shop—a Poké Mart, to be exact. And the interior is absolutely gorgeous.
Surrounded by pure white walls and a light gray floor, thousands of little lights dangle from the ceiling. Silver shelves are lined up neatly on the sides, stocked with different kinds of foods and items. Near the front of the store, little glass cases rest on different stands, each containing a special rare item or knick-knack.
"This place is huge!" I haven't seen a Poké Mart this big since the one we met Burgundy in!
"I agree. It's absolutely stunning!"
Even Pansage and Pikachu have to gawk in amazement at it.
Numerous people gaze at the shelves and displays, pondering over what to spend their money on. At their sides, I'm able to spot many different Pokémon: a Minccino, a Blitzle, and even a Swanna or two.
Turning to Cilan, I tilt my head and ask, "Do you think there's even a Pokémon Connoisseur or Connaisseuse at this Poké Mart?" Especially for one this huge, it wouldn't surprise me at all.
"There might be," he replies. Pansage hums in agreement from his shoulder. "Why? Are you eager to hear another connoisseur's evaluation?"
"Not at all," I reply with a sly smile that hopefully matches his own. "You're the only one whose evaluation matters to me."
"I'm quite charmed." The two of us giggle, but through our happiness, I'm able to catch the smirk Pansage and Pikachu exchange with one another.
Again, the Pokémon know what's up.
"What do you want to look at first?"
"Definitely the rare items up front. What do you want to check out?"
He's quiet for a moment, seemingly lost in his own mind. Then, he says, "Perhaps I'll browse through the different medicines. I should pick up a few more Potions while I'm at it. Will you be okay if I do that real quick?"
I shake my head and hold out my hand. "Don't worry about me. Pikachu and I'll stay here. I'll catch up with you in a bit, okay?"
"Okay." Although he still looks a bit doubtful, he heads deeper into the store, carefully weaving himself through the crowd.
Pikachu leaps onto my head as I race over to the glass cases up in the front of the store, right next to the aisle of registers. They've got so many different items staring back at us, accompanied by tiny price tags.
One case has a large Pearl, which looks like the sparkling ocean itself. The way it gleams in the light almost makes me yearn for it, despite its ¥6000 price.
Another small case has little Shards on display, in all four original colors: Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green. Each of them is listed for a price of ¥3000.
But my pockets are nearly empty. For now, I'm simply window shopping.
And then I see it.
A long glass case stretches out from the registers all the way to the wall. Inside, on soft, light violet pillows, are nearly each Evolutionary Stone known so far. Right below each stone, on a small card under the price, is a brief description of it, and it mentions which Pokémon can evolve from it. It mainly mentions Unova Pokémon, but some mention Pokémon from other regions.
I fight the urge to press my hands against the glass; I don't want to smudge up the case with my fingers. In my head, I make a list of all my favorite stones, based on their descriptions.
The Leaf Stone is a dark green color, with a small leaf engraved on its surface. Certain Pokémon can evolve upon making contact with it: Pansage evolves into Simisage, Weepinbell evolves into Victreebel, and Gloom evolves into Vileplume.
Burning a bright yellow, the Fire Stone bears a small flame in its center. It has been proved to be able to evolve Pansear into Simisear, Eevee into Flareon, Growlithe into Arcanine, and Vulpix into Ninetales.
With its dark blue shade and imprints of bubbles, the Water Stone has the ability to evolve certain Water-type Pokémon. Some examples are evolving Panpour into Simipour, and Eevee into Vaporeon.
And finally, the last one:
The Thunderstone bears a green color, with the image of a lightning bolt pressed into it. It holds the power to evolve Eelektrik into Eelektross, as well as Eevee into Jolteon, and Pikachu into Raichu.
Pikachu and I aren't fans of the Thunderstone if it comes close to us, but from a distance, it's a gorgeous sight. I have nothing against it if it can't touch us.
"Beautiful, isn't it?"
I frown. That is not Cilan's voice. So why is it right in my ear?
Turning my head ever so slightly, my eyes land on the form of a boy around Cilan's age. With soft brown hair slightly slicked back, he's dressed in a fancy white suit, complete with golden buttons and brown dress shoes. When he turns around to face me, the first thing I notice is how bright his golden eyes are.
I'm not gonna lie: this boy is really handsome.
"All the power to evolve a Pokémon rests within one little crystal," he continues, his voice sounding a bit dazed and dreamy. "Doesn't that just amaze you?"
I guess. But I simply shrug my shoulders and keep my lips sealed.
"I'm Pierce, by the way. What's your name?"
I swallow hard. "Alice."
He smiles, flashing two rows of pearly white teeth at me. "What a pretty name, Alice."
I fight the urge to shrug my shoulders. Where is this going?
"Well, Alice, I couldn't help noticing that Pikachu on your head right there. He's a real cute Pokémon, but he sure looks strong."
Pikachu's tail flicks from side to side, but he doesn't coo in delight, like he would if Iris or Cilan praised him like that. But he doesn't growl at Pierce, either.
"I'd love to buy you that Thunderstone, if you'd like." Although my jaw drops quite comically, he continues talking, like everything's normal. "Just think: your Pikachu could evolve into a stunning Raichu. He definitely seems stronger than your average Pikachu, and I'm sure he'd make a fine Raichu, if you were to evolve him."
It takes too many glances at the ¥10000 price tag, as well as a few taps from Pikachu's tail, to bring me back from my dazed state. I clear my throat and shake my head furiously.
"N-no thank you! We're not interested in evolving him, but thanks. Pikachu likes being a Pikachu. Don't you, buddy?"
He chirps happily from his spot on my head. He clearly remembers refusing to evolve five years ago, when we were coping after a Gym battle loss in Kanto.
Pierce simply smiles. "I understand. There's nothing stronger than the bond between a Trainer and their Pokémon. Especially with Electric-types. I'm the same with my Ampharos, you see."
As he chuckles lightly, I can feel the confusion settling in. And one glance at Pikachu tells me he's just as lost as I am.
What is this guy playing at?
"Well, if I can't win you over with a Thunderstone, how about a tour around the city? I can show you Black Tower, the city's most popular attraction."
It settles in all too quickly. He's asking me out. While I'm already on a date!
I jolt and nearly shriek when I realize it. "No! I-I mean, th-thank you, but no... You see, I'm already here with someone else..." Better to tell him up front than lead him on, right?
Pierce looks around the store, a sly smile stretching his lips up. "I don't see anyone."
This time, I frown. And Pikachu releases a soft growl. But it's a growl, no less.
"Come on, you don't have to lie," he says with a shrug. "It's fine, I don't mind showing you around—"
"No thank you." This time, my voice is firmer.
"I insist—"
"I said no." His eyes widen at my tone, but that doesn't stop me: "Thank you for the offer, but I'm not interested. Goodbye."
I turn away from the case with the Evolutionary Stones and begin to wade through the crowd. My eyes dart upwards, trying to find the sign that'll direct me to the medicine department.
It's not long before I hear frantic footsteps behind me. "Are you sure? You look like you need some company around this huge city."
"I said no, Pierce." Now back off, or Pikachu will shock you into oblivion. I know my buddy, and you simply don't mess with his Trainer.
But Pierce doesn't give up. "Come on, I'll make it worth your while. Name it, and I'll give you anything your heart desires, I promise."
I keep walking, but suddenly, I'm yanked backwards. I can feel his fingers digging into my wrist.
"What do you want? Jewelry? New clothes? A rare Pokémon?"
"Nothing!" I nearly screech, wrenching my hand away from his. Whirling around, I glare fiercely at him, feeling my annoyance meter slam to the top. "You shouldn't have to rely on fancy gifts to secure a relationship!"
My face erupts in flames when I realize what I've just said, but I don't stop. No, once I'm fired up, it's impossible to shut me up.
"Listen, I'm thankful for the offer, I really am, but I'm already here with someone. I'm not interested, even with everything you could promise me." Not to mention it completely goes against my theory and beliefs on relationships: friends first, lovers later. "Thank you, but no thank you. Now please, leave me alone."
His golden eyes seem to darken the longer I stare at them, but I don't back down. I've noticed a small group of people have huddled around us, but I keep my gaze locked on his. He doesn't let up, either.
Finally, his eyes flutter shut, and he sighs in defeat. But his voice is fiery and dangerous: "I understand, Alice. I understand perfectly."
With a final glare thrown in my direction, he turns away and begins to head off into the crowd. He pushes against people as he makes his way toward the exit, and in a matter of seconds, he vanishes from my view.
A heavy sigh passes through my lips as I lean my chin on my arms. With my knees pulled up to my chest, I gaze down at Pikachu, who's seated right in front of me on the curb outside the Poké Mart.
"Pika pi?"
"I know," I groan, squeezing my eyes shut. "He thought he could win me over with gifts and empty promises. But that's not my style. You know that, buddy."
To be honest, I don't even think Pierce was looking for a romantic relationship with me. Judging by his snobbish attitude (which reminds me of a worse version of Trip), I think he was just looking for a fresh piece of arm candy to hang onto. And going by how smooth he spoke, I'm guessing he's done this before.
But how long would that have lasted? How long until he ditches one person and disappears, hunting for the next one?
Pikachu's left ear twitches. "Pi? Pika?"
I shake my head. "Don't worry about me. I'm fine."
And it's mostly true. But it hurts a bit, to know he didn't really care about me as a person. He only cared about having something to show off to the world.
Not all relationships are like that, I remind myself instantly. And not all guys are like that. Remember, Cilan has always treated you well. Just like a princess, right?
Wait—
Cilan.
"Alice?"
His voice makes me jump slightly. When I turn my head around, I find him standing behind me, clutching a small shopping bag. His bright emerald eyes glimmer with concern.
"I thought we were going to meet up at the front of the store. What happened?"
The pain in his voice hurts me; I can't hurt him any more. So I simply turn away and answer, "It got a bit too crowded in there for me, so I decided to get some fresh air." I know he won't question it if I bring up my fear of closed-in places.
Besides, I don't need to worry him about Pierce. I'll probably never see him again.
But he doesn't give up that easily. "Are you alright? You seem a bit distracted."
"What? No, I'm fine." To emphasis my point, I spring up into the sidewalk, nearly tripping over Pikachu in the process. "See? I'm all good! No need to worry!"
After what feels like forever, he finally caves into the smile I give him. "Alright, if you say so. What do you say we find a Pokémon Center and let Iris and Cynthia know we're okay?"
"Alright. Let's do it!"
By the time we reach the Pokémon Center, I'm back to my usual, bubbly, energetic self. The memory of Pierce has faded into nothing but a bad yet faint trace in my mind. I can't even remember what color his eyes were, honestly.
As Cilan sets us up with a room in the Pokémon Center's hotel section, I take Pikachu and Pansage with me over to the phones. Settling down at one of the spots, I dial the number to Cynthia's villa and press the phone to my ear.
It rings exactly twice before an aging voice answers. "Hello?"
"Hi, Jervis! It's Alice. Is Cynthia there?"
There's a slight bustling on the other end of the line. Finally, a familiar feminine voice says, "Yes?"
"Cynthia! This is Alice. I just wanted to let you know Cilan and I are staying over in Black City for a few nights. We'll call you when we get back to Undella Town."
She lets out a soft gasp. "You're in Black City? How did you get there?"
"It's a long story... But I promise we'll tell you all about it when we get back to Undella Town in a couple of days. Is Iris okay?"
"...She's fine," the Sinnoh Champion replies after a while. I can almost see the smile on her face as she speaks the words. "She and Axew are becoming stronger than ever. He was actually able to practice his stronger moves on Garchomp before he tired himself out."
Yup, that sounds like Axew. But it's nice to know he's getting some training done with Outrage and Giga Impact; he doesn't have much experience with those moves.
"You sound like you're having fun," Cynthia says. Her smile sounds like it's turning into a smirk. "Are you two enjoying yourselves?"
"So far, so good." We'll see tomorrow; it depends on how well this tournament goes.
"I'm glad to hear that," she chuckles. "Well, I'll leave you to it, then. Give Cilan my best, okay?"
"I will. And...thanks for helping me out with this, Cynthia," I add a bit sheepishly.
The genuine smile returns to her voice. "My pleasure, Alice. I'll see you in a few days." With that, the line goes dead.
With a happy sigh, I hang up the phone. Pikachu and Pansage turn to stare at me, their eyes wide and expectant.
"You two ready to win tomorrow?"
I'm met with a chorus of cheers. A small giggle flies past my lips, and I reach over to rub the tops of their heads.
"Of course you are. I know you won't let me and Cilan down."
Our first night in the Pokémon Center room is a bit awkward. It hits me immediately Iris isn't there, so she can't keep me and Cilan in check. My stomach churns when I realize we're completely alone.
Well, besides Pikachu and Pansage.
The two of us sleep in separate beds, and leave the room at separate times so each of us can get dressed in our pajamas. But even with the moon high in the dark, starry sky, and all the lights in the room turned off, I can't fall asleep.
Pikachu grumbles as I toss and turn in the bed, tangling the sheets up with my fists. It's not until I groan audibly that I hear rustling from the bed beside me.
"What's wrong, Alice?" Cilan leans over to flick on the lamp on the dresser that's perched between us. He rubs his eyes adorably, his voice tainted with exhaustion.
I roll over to face him, the side of my face pressed against the soft white pillow. "I can't sleep. I'm so excited for tomorrow!"
"So am I," he says with a light chuckle, "but you don't want to wear yourself out before the day actually begins. You need your sleep, especially if you want to do well tomorrow."
I guess he's right. But as I stare at him longer, I can only think of the night we spent in the cabin a few months ago, when we snuggled together during a thunderstorm.
"Maybe you're right..."
He smiles gently and settles back under the covers. "Goodnight, Alice. I'll see you in the morning."
"Yup. Goodnight, Cilan."
He flicks the lamp off, and my eyelids droop. Still facing him, I'm finally able to surrender to sleep's outstretched arms.
The next day is bright and sunny—the perfect weather for a tournament. With my stomach full of Berry Juice and pancakes from the Pokémon Center's cafeteria, I lead the way to the stadium, with Cilan close behind.
"Alice, wait up! I'm not that fast!"
"Don't lie to me!" I snap back playfully. "I saw how you moved back at the Stamp Rally! Come on, Slowpoke!"
Pikachu clutches my right shoulder, and Pansage holds onto my left. The little Grass-type decided to hop on for the ride when he realized I was much faster than Cilan.
Finally, we reach the stadium, and it's just as crowded as I imagined it would be. The two Ace Trainers from yesterday stand outside, handing out Black City souvenirs to members of the audience.
My lanyard with the number hangs around my neck, bumping against my Accelgor scarf. Cilan holds his in his hand, having wrapped it up delicately.
"Ready to do this, Cilan?"
"Of course," he replies with a smile. "And I know you're ready, Alice," he adds with a wink.
It seems like heaven: my crush and I are entering a Tag Battle Competition, with no one else to interrupt us. We're gonna march right in there, and show Black City just how powerful Alice Ketchum and Cilan Everwood are. With Pikachu and Pansage with us, nothing can stop us.
What could go wrong?
"Ugh! Simply révoltant! You're entering the competition, too?!"
My whole world freezes at the familiar French voice.