Kenny was terrified. He finally made it… THE GRAND FESTIVAL! Reaching here seemed like a dream a few months ago… and yet here he was! He was soooooo ready for this; he had an entire plan ready and everything. The appeal round would be the easiest, just turn on the bubbles and shazam! Instant cheer. The battles, on the other hand… they would be tougher. It's not like he couldn't battle; in fact, he was rather good at it. But these people weren't slouches. They weren't going down easy, he's seen the competition. But then, there was Dawn…

She was Kenny's not so secret crush for years. Brock saw it, mainly because he was the smart one, while Dawn was the pretty one, and Ash was the dense one (seriously). The only reason the latter two were oblivious was because Kenny did everything in his power to keep Dawn unaware, he might die of embarrassment if she found out, and Ash is as intelligent as a stick.

After what seemed like years, Kenny was finally up. Kenny put on his best cocky face, but he was seriously losing it. After his intro, he sent out his pokemon, Empoleon and Floatzel. He was off to a really great start, and he had a surge of hope.

Maybe I can win this after all thought Kenny. I actually have a chance! I'll be able to brag to Dawn and-

Dawn. The girl of his dreams. Would he be able to look her in the eye after this? She clearly wanted to win this more than anyone, himself included, and she deserved it. But how can he help? I mean, she's my competition, I can't help her. Or can I?

Right then and there, an idea twinkled in the back of his mind. A crazy one? Sure. A stupid one? Absolutely. One that would get him disqualified and sent home without anything but shame, regret, and a burning desire to undo this entire festival? That's the idea.

What am I thinking? I trained so hard for this, I have a fool-proof plan and the audience would love it. Is Dawn really worth it?

"I don't know, but I do know one thing. I will never ruin Dawn's dreams, and this is the best way to do it."

"Empoleon! Flash cannon!"

He knew what was coming, Empoleon himself looked confused when he fired his far too powerful attack, but he saved Dawn from himself. After all, that's what friends are for right? All he had to do was looked shocked, turn on the sad puppy eyes, and turn home. His work here is done.