Author's Note: Soooo yeah, it's been a ...a...yeah...while let's just leave it at a while. As I have stated previously before I will finish this story. How long that takes...welll...that's the problem. Got a lot on my plate and a lot of those things are time sensitive. So I really don't have much choice in the matter. But I do bring you good news...I did two chapters this time...well you deserve more...but again...it's all I have right now. So without further ado, here is the latest chapter.
Summary: About 5 years have passed since the gang saw Ash, he reappears out of the blue in his hometown of Pallet much to the surprise of everyone. Ash decides it's time for him to settle down and open a gym in Pallet. What new trials and tribulations await our young hero? Rated M for adult situations that will occur later on in the story. AshxMisty,MayxDrew,BrockxSoldat. Takes place after the Sinnoh League
Disclaimer: Pokemon belongs to Nintendo and , I do however claim all OC's created by myself in this story.
Chapter 36 - Wedding Cakes and Rehearsal Dinners
"I can fully understand now why people elope. It's not to be romantic or to get away from disapproving family members etc. It's simply so you don't have to deal with evil people whose sole purpose is to take advantage of the fact that everybody wants their wedding to be special."
"Are you calling me evil?"
"I would prefer to call you the embodiment of evil that has descended upon Pewter City, but for some reason I don't think that will do you justice."
"Well excuse me!" the primly dressed gentleman expressed his disapproval of his client's accusations. "And this is what you think of me as well?" he said looking to the male sitting down with his arms folded across his chest.
"Patrick I did my best. I talked to you countless of times, pleaded on a few occasions. I felt that I was chasing you around when it should be the opposite. This meeting right here is one I wanted to avoid, for as you can see for yourself, my assistant doesn't think highly of the way things have been handled. She wanted to meet you face to face for a while now and I have been holding her at bay. Unfortunately, your latest news has caused the tiger to escape the cage. "
"Mr. Ketchum, how is it my fault that the bakery experienced issues with their equipment."
"It's not your fault, not one bit…."
"...it's just that you waited until today to inform us of this." Interrupted Kazia.
"But I only found out yester…"
"See, this is why I call you evil because you have the audacity to lie to our faces. You see I called the bakery, just to get confirmation and they told me about the incident that occurred. They were shocked we were still calling, considering they spoke to you a WEEK ago!"
Patrick then released a nervous laugh. "It wasn't a week, but merely a few days…"
"Merely a few days is still a few days more than what we were notified. Have you even found a substitute?"
"I'm still…"
"Thought so, can we have all the confirmations given to us please."
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me, I need you to produce written confirmations of bookings and orders right now."
"This would take me some time."
"Either you produce what I asked for in ten minutes or we will do things on our own."
Patrick then scoffed. "Your own, there is only a few days before the wedding. What could you possibly hope to accomplish?"
"A better job than you, that's for sure. So can you cease wasting our time and get to work on what your CLIENTS requested from you."
"Why I never!" Patrick went to his desk and began typing furiously, taking out his rage on the keys.
"Did you really have to rile him up like that Kazia?" whispered Ash into his gym assistant's ears.
"I thought I held back a lot don't you think? It's not like he's crying or mentally broken."
Ash didn't know what to say, the look on Kazia's face made him a loss for words. She stated it so matter of fact like.
"Are you almost finished?" asked Kazia, she was drumming on the edge of Patrick's desk with her fingernails.
"Almost, there are a fair bit of confirmations to obtain. Especially given such shor…"
"Excuses Patrick, I'm not very fond of them. So please use the energy for giving me one to hasten your productivity."
Ash could only sigh as he noticed that Patrick's entire skin tone was close to a shade of red he did not think possible in a human being.
A few minutes passed and Kazia's drumming on the edge of the desk was taking its toll on Patrick's patience. Ash could see a vein on the side of his head pulse with every tap from her fingernails. Ash looked at Kazia and could see that she was well aware that it was affecting the wedding coordinator. Ash decided to play mediator before the situation went to a place it didn't need to go. He rested his hand on hers to stop it and gave her a pleading look. She glared back at him, but since Ash was not backing down she sighed in defeat. Ash noticed the vein slowly began to disappear with each passing second of silence. The silence of the room was then broken by the mechanical sound of the printer on Patrick's desk. Patrick swiped the papers from the printer and handed them over to Kazia.
"There you go, your list of confirmations. As you can see, everything is confirmed as it should be."
"Then you won't have any problem with us checking on our own then."
"Are you trying to imply something?"
"Nothing at all, I believe I have stated already how incompetent you are."
Patrick's cheeks turned pink. "Who do you think you are speaking to?!"
"Somebody who seems to be overestimating their capabilities."
"You insolent…"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa…" Ash stood up. "Now calm down both of you. While you have been very diligent to the task in the early phases Patrick you have caused us to doubt you somewhat. So we are only taking the precaution of ensuring everything is at it should. So excuse us, as we take the list and verify. Not to worry though as you will still receive payment as agreed to." Ash then looked at Kazia. "Time for us to be going." Ushering her to the door.
Ash breathed an audible sigh of relief. "That actually didn't go as bad as Kai said it would."
"What did the jolly green giant have to say this time?"
"Something akin to you jumping on the table and beating him with his own phone or whatever was the closest to your short reach on the desk."
"And I'm sure that bastard emphasized the short part didn't he."
"Something like that."
"Wait until I see him again. I swear I'm going to…"
Ash seeing that she had flipped her revenge of Kai switch decided it was best to focus her attention. "So what's the next step? Find a baker and then beg and plead."
"Well, I'm going to be calling all of these vendors to ensure that things are the way they should be. You however are going to take this list, and as you said, 'beg and plead' them to give you a wedding cake that will need to be rushed." She then pulled a piece of paper from her bag and pinned it to Ash's chest with her hand. "That's the list of all of the reputable bakeries in the city."
Ash took the list and started to look at it. "So is there any sort of priority?"
"Honestly, no. If I had to actually put them in some form of ranking I would have to go find actual people who ordered from them and get their feedback, compare their recent stuff to where they came from. See if they actually make things look unique or do they do some cookie cutter kind of creations."
"Cookie cutter?"
"Yeah, cookie cutter. Like they get the same looking cake, change the way the groom or bride looks possibly. Smack it all together and mass ship them out. The bride and groom will be too happy getting married to notice, but those who happen to attend one or more weddings might notice that they saw that same cake at Brad and Gina's wedding a week ago."
"Right, so how do you know they are good again?"
"Looked at their portfolios online. They looked like they would be able to do something elegant for the wedding so they were chosen."
"So the first one that says yes I go with."
"Exactly, so now get to it."
Ash looked at the list once again. "Wait Kazia, where are their phone numbers?"
"I didn't put them there." She said walking away in the opposite direction. "I figured begging would seem more authentic if it was done in person."
Ash just sighed lightly. "Right…"
"I'm sorry I can't help you."
"Unfortunately sir, the time frame isn't enough."
"Nah, that's not going to happen."
"We would love to, but we're booked out sir…"
"Sir. Sir…please get up off your knees."
Ash flung himself on a park bench, his arms stretched on the back of the bench, his long legs stretching out almost into the walking path. His head was tilted, so the back of his head met the bench. With his eyes closed he let out a deep sigh. He knew it would be a daunting task to get somebody to accept the design and the conditions but the fact that he had already crossed thirteen members of a list containing fifteen. It definitely wasn't looking good at all.
"I wonder if cupcakes would work, Mom makes some delicious ones." He thought out loud, but his thoughts were followed by a sigh. "Who am I kidding, they would be good to have but definitely not something to replace a wedding cake. I mean it's possible but…ARGH!" Ash ruffled his hair in frustration.
"Ahhhh" came a minute scream.
Ash took his hands from his hair and looked to the left and right but didn't see the source of the noise.
"Excuse me…" Ash then looked to the sky to see if an angel had descended to give him a message, but no luck.
"Sorry sir…"
Ash pitched up this time, his quick actions now startling the source of the voice. Jumping back in fright, the owner of the voice tripped over their retreating feet and landed on their posterior, the pamphlets in their hand now thrown into the air.
"So sorry, I didn't see you there." Ash apologized as he began to pick up the papers scattered on the floor.
"It's okay." Came the soft reply.
Handing back the papers he collected Ash finally saw the person who he had startled. Her hair blocked him from seeing her eyes, and a good amount of her face actually. That was until she brushed her hair back to speak exposing her hazel eyes. Her face gave her an age of a young lady in her early teens.
"Need a hand?"
"Yes, thank you."
"So what was it you were trying to say me?" he asked as he assisted her to his feet. At this time he realized that she was actually shorter than Kazia.
"Well, it was to hand you this." She handed Ash one of the papers he scattered into the sky. "It's a flyer for a new bakery that just opened."
"As in cakes bakery?"
"Yes, a variety of cakes are made daily." The volume in her voice decreasing with every word.
"Cakes of the wedding variety?"
"Yes, cakes for a special event are made to order." She then started tapping her fingers together as she answered nervously
"And it's open now?"
"…yes…" she barely answered.
"YES! Fifteen just became Sixteen. This is a sign!"
"Ex…Excuse me?" she asked confused at Ash's outburst.
"Thank you!" Ash shook her hand vigorously and dashed out of the park.
A few more minutes passed and Ash found himself in front of the bakery advertised on the flier he received. 'Friendly 3 Bakery'. Ash looked at the building, it was a neat office space tucked in between two apartment complexes. A banner reading 'Now Open' hung from the corners of the building's roof.
"Come on lucky number sixteen."
Ash stepped into the building, the place was really and truly new. The aroma of the building was that of icing and that brand new box smell. The walls were white, the accents were a combination of pink and lavender. There were small designs of various confectionaries placed in what seemed like random occasions but yet did not feel out of place. Ash took a deep breath in and his nose picked up the wonderful aroma coming from the tray on the counter with the inviting 'Try Me' on the platter. Being hungry and convincing himself that it was to test their skill he took a slice. His mouth generated a heavenly sensation and he then found himself sampling another, then a cupcake, then a brownie. Then with his mouth stuffed with the free samples, he heard a ruckus from the back that sounded like shouting. As the noise got closer, he confirmed that it was indeed an argument and an argument heading his way.
"Why the hell did you let Keiko go and hand out those fliers?! I gave them to your dumbass to do!"
"Stop treating her like a little kid. You're pretty much the reason why she's so gat damn shy. This will help her interact more. How the hell can we run a company with somebody who doesn't want to interact with the customers?"
"That's my forte, and that's why I'm the person taking orders. Because honestly she is shy, but nobody would want to deal with your obnoxious attitude."
"How the hell am I obnoxious?"
"Oh let me count the ways."
"Ha ha, very funny."
"Do you see me laughing?"
"Whatever, point is. Keiko will be fine."
"You're missing the point you stupid mother…" The red haired woman appeared through a door, her eyes then settling upon Ash who was devouring the samples. "…Hello sir. How may I help you?"
"MMmmasdaNN casdasda" Ash started, his mouth still full of their delicious samples. The lady just tilted her head, and her eyebrow raised in a questioning manner to Ash's response. Realizing that his mouth was full, Ash swallowed and started once again. "Wedding cake, I need a wedding cake to be…caked…no made."
"No problem sir, we here at Friendly 3 Bakery have a variety of templates you can choose from. If nothing pleases you…" she reaches for a book behind the counter "…we can use them simply as a base and customize them to your desire." She laid the book on the counter in front of Ash. "So when is the wedding going to be sir?"
Ash sighed. "In three days." He muttered.
"Pardon me sir, would you please repeat what you said?"
"Three days…" he voiced a little louder.
"Sir, it's sounding as if you are saying three days."
"And if I said yes it was three days?"
"Then that shouldn't be an issue."
"SERIOUSLY?!" Ash shouted, his elation purely written across his face.
"Eeep!" this sound was accompanied by papers being thrown into the air.
"Keiko!" shouted the red haired woman, she then darted behind the counter to assist the source of paper geyser.
"Huh?" Ash turned around to see the same girl who he met in the park. Then it dawned on him and he apologized once again. "Two times in one day, I'm sorry."
"It's…it's fine." Keiko said as she picked up the papers with the assistance of Ash and the red haired woman.
With papers in hand, Ash stood up and extended his hand to assist her in getting up. She reached, but was cut off by her arms being wrapped around by the arms of the red haired woman. She engulfed her in a deep hug.
"Thank goodness Keiko. I thought you would have been passed out somewhere due to your anxiety issues."
"Lori, I can't breathe."
Lori blushed slightly. "Sorry Keiko."
"It's okay, Lori."
"See I told you she would be okay."
"Oh shut it Raji." snapped Lori.
"Shame on you Lori, is this how the sales manager should act in front of a customer?"
Then it dawned on Lori that Ash was still indeed there. She quickly got to her feet and bowed in apology for her impoliteness. Ash couldn't help but laugh in response.
"It's fine…I think I had a part to play in this." He managed between breaths. He then inhaled deeply and exhaled to catch his breath. "But seriously, is it possible for you to make a wedding cake in three days."
"Why yes, might be a little more costly due to the rush."
"Don't care about the money. Just need to know if you can make something like this." Ash dove into his pocket and produced a drawing of the cake.
"Keiko?"
"I can't see..." she said meekly. Ash brought it down to her eye level. "Yes, three days can be more than enough."
Ash leaned against the counter. "You have no idea how good it feels to hear that."
"Your wedding?" asked Lori.
"Oh, no not mine. My best friend Brock's getting married."
"Brock as in Pewter City's Golden Boy Brock?"
"Golden Boy?"
"Yeah, Golden Boy. Gym Leader, Leading Pokémon Breeder. Runs a nursery as well."
"Yeah, that same Brock."
"Seriously?"
"Yes"
"Not to sound too forward, but could you prove it?"
Ash looked at her questioningly but just shrugged it off. "I guess…" he made his way over to the videophone in the office and dialed Brock's nursery's number. "He should be there." After a few rings he picked up.
"Hey Brock."
"Hey Ash, you need something?"
"Nothing really, just need you to verify something for me."
"Something?"
"You're getting married in three days correct?"
"Yes, but you should know that Ash."
"It's not for me, but it turns out you're a real local celebrity and a few people doubted that I knew you."
"I'm merely a local celebrity compared to some world recognized trainer I know. "
"I'm a has-been remember, not on the A-List like you in the Pokémon World."
"Sure Ash, if you want to believe that."
"Thanks for the time Brock."
With that the conversation between them ended…
"Ash Ketchum, like Sinnoh League Champion Ash Ketchum?" asked Raji.
Raji looked at Lori, who looked back at him and then to a confused Keiko. "Excuse us for a moment Mr. Ketchum." said Raji who was using a more formal voice.
The trio disappeared into the back…
"This is our break you guys." stated Raji.
"How?"
"Keiko, that's Ash Ketchum. He's a world famous pokemon trainer and he's asking us to make a wedding cake for Brock. You have any idea what this could do for our business."
"With just the word of mouth alone at the wedding, we should be set." Added Lori.
"Set for how long?" asked Keiko.
"Set for life." Answered Raji.
"Let's not get carried away Raji, not for life but for at least 15 years."
"Then that won't do then."
"What won't do Keiko?" asked Lori.
"That draft he gave me, it's not an eye grabber."
"So you can improve it?"
"I can come up with something way more grandiose."
"And it can be done in three days?"
"If we put in the overtime."
"A few extra hours for years of success. I ain't got a problem with this."
"Neither do I." added Lori. "How do we convince him otherwise though?"
"That's why you're the one in charge of sales right Lori?" She just glared at Raji.
While they disappeared into the back Ash was keeping himself occupied by drumming his fingers on the counter. 'I could use a few more of those brownies.' Ash started to reminisce about the taste of their fudge delicacy when Lori emerged from the back room followed by Keiko and Raji.
"Mr. Ketchum..."
"Just Ash is fine."
"Well, Ash we have a proposition to make to you."
"Proposition?"
"Yes, as you can see we are a new business and this could be seen as a big break for us."
"Okay?"
"Well, we want to make a cake for you and then with the blessing of the bridal party…"
"We would like to add our pastries to your dessert menu at the reception." said Keiko, her voice louder and more firm than previously heard before. Ash was slightly shocked, but he wasn't alone as Raji and Lori had a look of surprise as well.
"Well, if it was up to just me I would definitely hire you guys based off your samples alone. However if you can convince the person helping me get everything in order. Then you definitely can say that your proposal will be accepted."
"How soon will you be able to get a response from her?"
"She can come here now if that's okay with you." The three nodded simultaneously. Ash asked Dexter to call Kazia.
"Hey Kazia…I was just about to let you know…nobody on the list was able to do it but….can you listen…I think we have a group willing to help us out. They just have a proposal they want you to hear….Uh huh…Well I'm down on Chicharney Street. Just look for the sign saying Friendly 3 Bakery…correct Friendly 3…be here in ten, no problem…we will be waiting." Ash hung up the phone. "Well, she's on her way. If you have anything you need to do in preparation. I suggest you do it now."
Keiko headed by the cashier and began to profusely scribble away, Lori took a little interest into what she was doing and peered over. In the meantime Raji was trying to convince Ash to give them an endorsement, he placed a paper in front of him to say that he could sign right here and they frame it on a wall he pointed to. As Ash was about to reply, Kazia entered the bakery.
"Well this place looks nice at least."
"What's that supposed to mean Kazia?"
"Well you said you heard about them from a flier so I was a little worried."
"Wouldn't call you if I didn't think these guys could assist us. Especially due to the importance of the event."
"That's true Ash, so what's this proposal of theirs."
"Well, it's better if you hear it from them." Ash then looked to the trio. "This is Kazia, the 'wedding planner'."
Lori stepped forward. "Good Afternoon, it's a pleasure to meet you Kazia. As Ash mentioned on the phone we have a proposal for you that we will hope you will agree to."
"I'm listening."
"Well, we want to do the wedding cake for Brock and Solidad's wedding. Keiko here is our pastry chef and she has a wonderful design that she believes will represent the couples wedding and theme well. We are willing to ignore the rush order fee and still give you a 15% discount."
"That's very generous of you. What's the stipulations?"
"Well I was getting to that. We are only asking that we solely handle the pastries for the reception and we be allowed to have each table with a small platter with our business cards on the plate."
"Business cards, that's a little bit forward don't you think."
"I know, but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity…"
"That happens to be a person's wedding. That will only add a distraction for the table design arrangement." replied Kazia. Lori looked slightly dejected but she sparked back to life as another alternative popped into her head.
"What if we still did a pastry arrangement for the table, but we are allowed to wear our uniforms. That way when the trays get empty we will be able to replenish them as needed."
"Hmmm, that I could agree with, but another concern is the pastries themselves. If I can remember the meal plan there will be a 5 course meal. You will have to make pastries that complement each course so that nobody spoils their appetite on sweets."
"That's not going to be a problem. If we see what's on the menu and the total number of expected people we can easily do something as simple as that."
"Then you won't mind that I have these promises made in writing then?"
"Not at all, in fact we would draft the agreement up ourselves."
"I do respect your desire to further your business and considering the situation we have found ourselves in. It is somewhat fortuitous that we found out about your establishment. There is only one matter left."
"What's that Kazia?" asked Lori.
"How does your food taste?"
"Well we have a few samp…ples…" started Lori as she pointed her towards the empty sample tray. The trio then looked at Ash.
"What? They were delicious."
"Can you give us 40 minutes?" asked Keiko.
Kazia checked her watch. "We do have some time to spare."
"Be right back." Keiko disappeared into the kitchen with Raji and Lori shortly joining her.
"So what do we do for forty minutes?"
"It's time to inform you of what was confirmed on the list." Kazia then pulled out a stack of papers that caused Ash to audibly sigh.
35 minutes later…
"Kazia."
"Yes Ash?"
"Couldn't you have just told me that everything was as it should be?"
"No, because I had to let you know what I had to change and what Patrick actually did."
"You're acting like your auditioning for a full time position here."
"Not really, just letting you see that I should have been involved a lot earlier."
"The couples' suggestion and he had good reviews."
"Yeah, but he still slacked off and we would have been cake less….you think Solidad or Misty would want a cake less wedding?"
"Wait Misty?"
"Imagine you and her going to take the first slice and there is nothing there. Imagine the pain and sorrow on her face…"
"Wait…how is it Misty and I? It's Brock and Solidad's wedding so shouldn't that scenario..."
"…as she pines to shove the cake in your face as a playful gesture." Kazia continued. "There's nothing there and she runs out of the room forlorn."
"Really? Forlorn?"
"Word of the Day."
Ash just shook his head at Kazia's exaggeration. He opened his mouth, but a smell wafted into the room that stopped his words in his throat and caused his mouth to salivate.
"Oh my." Was all Kazia could say as the smell found its way through her nostrils. In a matter of minutes, Keiko emerged with a tray in hand. At the center was a miniature replica of the original design for the wedding cake Ash showed Lori and Keiko. With four of each confectionary treat arranged around it. Keiko placed the tray in front of them and then pointed out the purpose of each one.
"I may not know the exact menu but I took liberty in creating a dish that could compliment a general amount of go to meals for five course arrangements. They go from left to right, so the far left is to be met at the table and for the first, the next is for the second and so on and so on. Now if you please, go ahead and try."
"I believe I will." Kazia took a bite from the first, her eyes grew broad with enjoyment. She then took another one from the first tier and then another from the second. "These are amazing." She took from the third and she sighed with pleasure. She then threw one into Ash's mouth, who agreed with her opinion wholeheartedly. Kazia then took a piece from the cake replica and her eyes closed as she enjoyed the euphoria in her mouth. "Lori, when can I come to sign the paper work? I don't even care how much it costs, but we're definitely going with you guys. "
Keiko jumped up with excitement. "Thank you! Thank you!" Raji and Lori began to jump up and down hugging each other but soon realized what they were doing and parted ways. Lori then rushed to Keiko and they held each other's hands and jumped in a circle. Kazia then turned to take another sample but realized the tray was empty. She looked up to see Ash's mouth completely stuffed.
"What? I thought you were finished." He barely pronounced with his mouth full.
With Ash now at ease that everything was in place. There wasn't anything else but to layback and go through the formalities until the day of the event. The following day was the final fittings for the groomsmen.
"So why is Barry here?"
"Shouldn't I be?"
"Are you a groomsmen?"
"No…"
"Then you don't have to be here."
"You know how he is Drew, in a few seconds he is going to get bored and wander around Pewter City." Injected Ash.
"I already toured it yesterday, a lot of beautiful sites I must say. They aren't too eager to see random pokemon battles."
"You mean unsanctioned battles in the sidewalks and roads of a booming metropolis?" asked Drew.
"Yeah, nobody has a problem with it around the Battle Tower."
This triggered a group reaction of shaking heads and sighing.
"Just please tell me you didn't use Empoleon…"
"So that means I shouldn't respond?"
"How are you not in custody Barry?" asked Brock.
"Well to get arrested you have to get caught…."
"So you're a wanted a fugitive."
"You would have to be charged to be a fugitive, I'm more like a person of interest in an incident. Stature of limitations on that shouldn't be for too long."
"Why do you say this as if this isn't your first time doing this?" Barry just smiled a toothy grin. "So Brock, is any Officer Jenny invited because if so, I think they might bring along an arrest warrant."
"The feel of iron does not chill the senses."
Before anybody could ask, Ash deciphered. "Translation, he doesn't think anything will happen due to our friend's outstanding warrants." Ash then put on the jacket and buttoned up. "Besides, don't you get a pardon for it being your wedding day?"
"That's only in the movies Ash." said Drew as he looked at himself in the mirror.
"Definitely would be a moment to remember, Barry begging for mercy at the feet of Officer Jenny…"
"…followed by Dawn crying because her boyfriend is going to end up in jail…."continued Brock
"…only for Officer Jenny to deny his plea and take him away in chains." Finished Drew.
"Really Drew?"
"What? The law is the law. He broke it, he must suffer the consequences."
Ash just shook his head. "You two are like Fire and Ice, don't know how your girlfriends are so close yet you two are so….so…so" Ash moved his hands as if the gestures would help him find the correct word.
"Contrasting"
"Dissimilar"
"...Them" came a voice that shocked everybody. Everybody turned to see Dawn standing behind Ash, her arms crossed.
"Them huh? That will work." Ash took off the suit's jacket. "So what brings you here?"
She pointed to Barry. "I'm here for my battle-maniac."
"Please do guide him home, so that he does not commit another minor offense."
"I said I was here, not that we were leaving Drew."
"So you're staying?"
"Can I not?"
"No objections here." said Brock.
"If the groom says he's good with it, don't think anybody can object." Followed Ash. "So why are you here? Thought you would be with the girls at the salon."
"They are busy getting their regiment done and I just felt idle being there."
"No girl talk?"
"It's a salon Ash, of course there would be. Heard a view interesting points as well. "She looked at Drew and gave a sly grin. Causing Drew to blush, nerves and embarrassment brought on by Dawn's grin.
Ash could only raise his eyebrow in curiosity. "So if it was so interesting, why did you leave?"
"I realized that my three favourite guys are in one room and I haven't had much time to talk with two of them lately. I would say three but you know the third, who I considered close like a brother, he completely disappeared from the face of the planet and didn't let anybody know what the hell happened to him causing those who cared about him to think he had died and to grieve, suffer the pain of loss and weep whenever he crossed their minds. Then, he has the audacity to suddenly appear out of thin air, appearing in the background of your cousin's video call no less, and not even finding it necessary to let his sister from another mother know he was ALIVE and well when he had emerged from wherever the hell he was staying at for a few months…" Dawn then inhaled and exhaled slowly. "*Phew* So yeah, two….ish"
Everybody in the room was stunned, when they got over the shock they eyed Ash and Ash couldn't help but sheepishly smile due to the awkward attention. Ash then went on his knees and began bowing in apology. "I thought you were satisfied with my apology when you visited Pallet Town."
Dawn sighed, "I was but at that point in time I was caught up in a lot of things from an emotional stand point. So when the dust cleared and I finally was able to fully process everything, I was still upset with you. So that just now was me finally getting everything off my chest. So now I can say that I finally accept your apology Ash. Now get up off your feet you big oaf and come here."
As Ash got to his feet, Dawn wrapped him up in the biggest hug she could muster. "Welcome back Ash."
Ash patted her on her head. "Thanks Dawn." Ash then felt a hug from behind and looked from the corner of his eye to see that it was Barry. "Yes Barry?"
"Sorry, got caught up in the moment."
Later that evening everybody gathered for the final rehearsal, but honestly most were just waiting for the rehearsal dinner that was following immediately after.
"Forrest." Whispered Ash. "Forrest." He repeated, this time the volume in his voice increased slightly. The result was still the same. Ash realizing that the cue was definitely going to be off, hit Forrest on his back to snap him out of his reverie as well as to push him forward to greet the oncoming Misty. This was their second time running through the entrance procession and Forrest was still in a slump. It wasn't as if he didn't want to be there, more like he just got lost in his mind too quickly standing and waiting. Also talking to him didn't do much, he would respond lively but as soon as the conversation died down, he got lost in his thoughts once again. He was stuck in a stupor if anything. Ash just shrugged it off, he had to make sure he didn't miss his cue and they would have to start all over again.
'And that's my cue…' Ash began to stride to the music towards the maid of honor, Solidad's cousin. She was a shorter, shapelier version of Solidad. You could definitely see that they were related facially but their hair was definitely the starkest difference anybody would note. Her long white curls cascaded down the back of her neck and bounced with every step she took. As a matter of fact Ash was definitely surprised, he expected her family members to all have that rich salmon pink hair but that wasn't the case at all. Besides Solidad, her father was the only one that even had a shade close to her hair color. Ash made the assumption that the rich black hair her mother possessed gave Solidad a richer pink hue than the almost cotton candy locks that belonged to her father. Her uncles and aunts all had hair that was either white or silver. The pink hair, as Solidad's father let Ash know, was inherited by his mother's side of the family. This was just a snippet of the information that he let Ash into, you can say he was Ash's guide to the introduction of the entire side of Solidad's family. He was a very jovial individual who enjoyed talking, because even as he introduced Ash to every single member of the family and got called into another direction Ash could see that his mouth did not stop moving. Solidad's mother was not as talkative, but she did have a very commanding aura. She carried herself with an old dignity that you couldn't help but bow and pay respect when addressing her. Ash instinctively did it to her when he was introduced and she couldn't resist laughing. There was definitely a blend of characters in Solidad's family, those who kept to themselves, those who were extremely polite, and those that were rambunctious and had to be put in line with the sole glare of Solidad's mother. All in all, Ash could definitely state they were all kind hearted at the core of their beings and it was seen in the love and affection garnered towards Brock and Solidad and extended it to Brock's family and friends.
Ash stopped his approach to Sierra and bowed before offering his hand to the maid of honor. Sierra curtseyed in response before accepting his hand and aligning herself with him so they can make their way down the aisle.
"Remember Ash, small steps, not as vertically gifted as you."
Ash chuckled lightly. "I remember this time."
Sierra was about half of Ash's height, and even in the heels she currently had on she reached his elbow. On the first day of practice, Ash took one step and Sierra had to jump to catch up to him, this resulted in the entire bridal party laughing at the scene. Thankfully Ash and Sierra made their way to the end of the aisle, they both bowed to each other and then went to their respective side of the aisle. Now in line with the other groomsmen, Ash looked to his side to see that Forrest was once again lost in his thoughts. He looked past Forrest, towards Drew who just shrugged his shoulders. Ash decided to leave him be, and focused on the rest of the rehearsal. They repeated the entrance procession two more times, on the second time, Solidad and her father decided to spice things up a bit as they strutted into place striking various poses along the way. This caused everybody to erupt in laughter and of course start to join in. After their energy was spent, their stomachs reminded them that they had yet to eat thus everybody decided it was time to head to the dining tables.
The meal was prepared by the mothers' of the bridal party with a few of the resident chefs chipping in to assist, mainly of note Ms. Ketchum. At his table, Ash managed to maneuver himself into position so that Misty was on his left, but that definitely left him with an interesting guest on his right. It was the flower girl, Sierra's daughter Cristine. She was a miniature version of her mother, the same silver curly hair that bounced with a life of its own. She however possessed emerald eyes that would rival Kai's and they definitely gleamed with mischief. After finding out that Ash, was indeed THE Ash Ketchum she found a way to be around him as much as possible. In between sessions she would always ask to hold Pikachu and grill Ash with question after question until she was reeled in by her mother. Sierra told Ash that she wants nothing else but to be a pokemon trainer. She already has her team planned out in her head. Raichu, mainly because she likes Thunder Punch. Arcanine, she has a pendant with an Arcanine spewing flames. An Eevee evolution, she can't make up her mind as yet and the rest of the team comprising of Breeloom, Slaking and Dragonite. Ash remembered being scolded by Sierra when he showed Cristine his Leafeon. It was as if she was hit with a natural high from her excitement as she petted and nuzzled the XL sized grass eevee evolution. Of course Ash was grilled to death by Cristine as to how he got his Leafeon to be so big and she submitted her reservation to Ash for a member of the litter if Ash ever decided to breed her. This of course lasted into the night, and by Sierra's account all the way until bedtime and the following morning. Sierra wasn't sure she talked about it the entire day, mainly because she went to school.
Misty leaned over "It seems that your biggest fan is here."
"Well, you're the one who sat next to her."
"I think she knew you would try to sit next to me, she honestly was telling people beforehand that the seat was taken."
Ash couldn't help but snicker, he then looked over to Cristine who just beamed a bright smile.
"So Ash…" Cristine started but she stopped abruptly as she could feel the glare coming from her mother.
Ash noticing what happened leaned in and whispered to her. "We'll talk after dinner."
"I keep forgetting how much of a celebrity you are."
"I'm not the one with sold out shows, and thousands of adoring fans."
"I never said I wasn't one, just forget sometimes that you're in my stratosphere."
"I think my fame reaches farther than yours. Haven't done anything in years and I'm still talked about."
"All hail the king of the underground." Misty teased
"Mock me while you can, for I shall soon conquer the world!" Ash joked, giving a mockingly evil laugh.
The two continued their idle banter and brought in Cristine so that she wouldn't feel bored at a table that mainly had adults to it. Dinner was served not too shortly after they were seated, the chatter from the table created a murmur in the room. That was until a repetitive chiming sound interrupted the conversation. Everybody looked up to see that the source was that of Brock and Solidad at the head of the table.
"Sorry to interrupt you all, but as the night is starting to get a little late. I…well…we…just wanted to say thanks to you all."
"Thanks for everybody who was helped from day one, thanks to those who helped me find the perfect dress. Thanks to my cousin Sierra for putting up with my impulsive design changes. Thanks to my mother and father who have been nothing but supportive and willing to assist at the drop of a hat. Thanks to Brock's parents, my future in-laws Lola and Flint who made sure that everybody was accommodated."
"Thanks are extended to all our close family and friends who have travelled from all over the globe to be here to able to share this moment with us tomorrow. Special thanks goes out to those in the bridal party, you have no idea how much this means to us. "
"So, we know that we would normally cap off the night with just the dinner and save the festivities for tomorrow."
"However, being that this is a union of a former Gym Leader and a Grand Festival Winner. We thought that we would spice things up a little and have a little pokemon contest."
"More like an obstacle course."
"Each table chooses two pokemon and two representatives, they will all then compete in the obstacle course relay. First team to finish all legs of the course wins, and moves on to the next round. We have 8 tables, so that's 8 teams and taking time into consideration; that means we will have two rounds of 4, where the top two advance. Then we will have the finals with the four finalists and the winner takes all. "
"Of course you don't have to participate if you don't want to, but you're going to miss out on… THIS!"
Brock then pulled out a large box wrapped in gold paper adorned with a gold bow.
"What's in it?" asked one of Solidad's cousins
"Well you will just have to win and see."
"Just to let you all know, we will be the judges. Well, us along with a few others to ensure that everything goes smoothly. There really aren't any rules except that there can't be any tunneling or flying over the obstacle course. That's just to keep things fair. So, shall we begin?"
"We'll give you all about 5 minutes to decide who will participate for your table and which pokemon you all want to use."
"So who all…" started Ash, but everybody at his table was already looking in his direction. "So who is going to team up with me."
'Well I guess it's me and Ash.' Thought Misty, she was about to raise her hand when…
"I'll do it!" volunteered Cristine.
"Looks like we have our two."
"Wait a minute, do you have any pokemon Cristine?" asked Misty.
"No, but they didn't say you had to use your pokemon."
"Well true, but if you don't know the pokemon enough they might not obey you."
Cristine then turned her attention to the floor besides her. "Come here Pikachu" she said with her arms wide open. Pikachu who had just finished eating eagerly jumped into her arms for some after-meal petting. With Pikachu in arms she looked at Misty. "Pikachu listens to me. Don't you Pikachu." The electric pokemon let out a delighted cry as Cristine massaged its cheeks.
"You're still going to need another pokemon."
"Ash you have your pokemon with you right?" asked Cristine her eyes wide open.
Ash realized that he was now between a rock and a hard place. "Well…yes I did bring my pokemon with me."
"See, he can use another one of his. Even better, you could lend him one of yours."
"Hey Misty, just let her compete will ya. She seems hell bent on participating." Whispered Ash to Misty.
"I know she is, but I want to as well."
"I know that you want to, but she wants to team up with me and I don't know how you can break the news to her that she can't without being a bully."
"She's being the bully here." Said Misty through gritted teeth. Ash just looked at her pleadingly. "Fine, go have fun with your fan club, but you better win. I claim 50% of whatever is in that box."
"Fine, thanks…"
"…and you owe me one." She added.
"Owe you?"
"Yes, owe me" Misty emphasized the middle word that got Ash to be a little wary of the deal he just made. But that was for a later date, and they were in the now.
"Looks like it's me and you Cristine."
"YAY!" Cristine jumped out of her chair and pulled Ash in tow as they made their way to the front. Ash looked at Sierra and mouthed an apology. Sierra just gave him a sympathetic look as if she knew Ash couldn't do a thing about it.
"So it looks like we have our first representatives, Ash and Cristine along with Pikachu and…." Solidad looked at Ash. He then caught on and released their other team member from its pokeball. "…Buizel!"
"Next up we have Salvador, Yolanda, Ludicolo and Sudowoodo"
"Our third team comprises of our fathers and they are joined by Golem and Slowking"
"Now we have Kai and Kazia along with Gallade and Riolu. Followed by May, Drew, Glaceon and Absol."
"We have Dawn, Quilava, Barry and Hitmonlee."
"Then my cousins Dana and Sasha with their Ninetales and Jigglypuff.
"Last but not least Keiton, Ziare, Scyther and Hondour."
Brock then produced a controller from his pants pocket, and with a press of the button a machine like buzzing sound hummed through the air. The contestants just stared in awe, they expected it to just be a few hoops to jump through, and a line to cross before the other but this in front of them just surpassed their expectations.
Ash whistled. 'This doesn't seem like an idea they just came up with. Wonder what they would have done if nobody volunteered?'
"To make things fair, everybody will draw lots. Those who pick 1, will go in the first heat and those who pick 2 you're in the final one."
"Just to explain things, the section breakdown is as follows. There is agility, intelligence, speed and strength. It's simple you pick somebody to start at each position, then the first two teams to get past the finish line will advance to the next round."
"As we stated before, there can't be any flying or tunneling. Other than that, feel free to go at it."
"Now let's see who is in which round."
After the number were drawn, Ash and Cristine ended up in the heat along with teams of Salvador, May and Dana and Sasha. Ash considered himself lucky that he didn't have to go up against Kai in the first round. It would be wise to see how the round plays out then take on the headache of facing the martial arts master.
"Huddle up team, well this should be easy for us. Just look at them and look at us. We have got this. So for the stations it's going to be Cristine on Intelligence, Pikachu your on Speed, I'm on Strength and Buizel you handle agility. Any objections?" Ash looked his team in the eye and they all shook their heads in response. "Reach in and on three we cheer as loud as we can." They nodded once again. "1…2…3..." The resulting cheer was a loud jumble of words, as Ash realized that they never agreed on the phrase to shout, that and the fact that two of the members were pokemon.
Each contestant waited at their designated starting points, Ash's station was the last leg of the race and he was matched up against Absol, Sudowoodo and Jigglypuff. Ash was now beginning to wonder if he picked the right station because he was up against nothing but pokemon. Ash could have sworn he saw a smirk on Absol's face but chalked it up to his imagination. To be honest, Ash was a little concerned, besides the fact that a mere human was going against pokemon in a bout of strength, there was the matter of Cristine. She was placed at the intelligence station but her opponents were Drew, Yolanda and Dana. She was the youngest by a span of at least 8 years and who knows what the intelligence portion would comprise of. He was unsure of her skill and then there was pressure of the contest, it wasn't a serious competition but he was an adult and he saw it through that rational thinking brought on by age.
'No need to worry about that, she's on the second leg, if she doesn't get off in time Buizel and I will just have to make up for it. That's what teammates are for, pick up the slack and make it look easy.' Ash began to psych himself up, putting him in the zone to battle.
The course was definitely not overly complicated but it wasn't as simple as jumping from one spot to the next. The speed test was a maze with interchangeable sharp and deep curves strewn throughout the track. The intelligence test was simply a seat in front of a monitor, the person would see the question and then touch the correct answer that was on the screen as well. There was a pool of 20 questions and the participant had to answer 10. Agility was the next leg, it was a simple set up, an array of poles in a set order that resembled those used on ski slalom competitions. The last leg was of course the strength category, this was also simple in its instructions. There were 5 balls of varied weights. The goal was simple, get all the balls across the line in the quickest time.
"So now that we have everybody in position for heat 1. We start at the sound of the whistle. Ready…." Solidad blew the whistle and they were off. Pikachu was up against Glaceon, Sasha and Salvador. Glaceon was Pikachu's closest contender as they darted and dashed through the maze. At the end of the first leg, Pikachu came across the relay line first followed closely by Glaceon. What happened next definitely took everybody by surprise, well everybody who wasn't a part of Solidad's immediate family. Cristine was notified that she could start as soon as Pikachu crossed the line and with probably a minute passing Buizel was given the go ahead to proceed on the third leg. Ash was taken aback by how quickly the light for Buizel's leg turned on.
'Guess I was worried for nothing'
Buizel wasn't about to squander the head start that Cristine gave him. Surrounding himself with water, he unleashed an Aqua Jet attack. Using the acceleration of the attack move, Buizel navigated the slalom course. His pace as fast as he could muster. From the second stage, Drew was the second person to finish passing the figurative baton onto May. Ash noticed looked at the progression lights to see that the others were slowly coming along, first being May's team, then Dana's, the Salvador's.
Ash didn't have time to worry about how much they had closed the gap. He had to focus on the task at hand since he could see Buizel's figure barreling towards him. As Buizel crossed the leg's finish line Ash got the green light to proceed. Seeing that he was going up against all Pokémon, he decided that going with the heaviest first then decreasing the weight would take advantage of the head start he received. With gloves on, Ash squats and picks up the heaviest ball and began his labored walk towards the line. Ash was making his return from the delivering the second heaviest ball across the line. He could see May approaching the finish line, and Ash this time for sure saw a smirk on Absol's face. Ash increased his pace and picked up the third. With the third ball in hand Ash was startled momentarily as he heard a crashing sound behind him. He looked over his shoulder to see that Absol was still by the starting line but was using his horn to scoop and fling the weighted balls. The lightest one flew past Ash and landed a few feet from the finish line.
'I now see why he was smirking.'
Ash put urgency into his pace now, he had to contend with Absol, but could see that Jigglypuff and Sudowoodo would soon be in the mix. As Ash got ahold of the second ball he saw that Absol had tossed two of the weighted balls across the line. Sudowoodo started on his first trip the same time as Ash was making his fourth trip. Ash soon found himself in a foot race with the rock pokemon a race that he barely won. Then Ash took into account that Sudowoodo followed his strategy and was carrying the heaviest ball. Ash turned around and saw that Jigglypuff was using double slap to move the balls along the path and it was a very effective tactic.
'Got to hurry.' Mustering all the strength he had in reserve Ash bolted towards the final ball and picked it up. He was thanking himself for deciding on saving the lightest for last as he could feel his legs become slightly weary from the exertion. With one last surge, Ash crossed the line, ensuring that his team was in first place. Tired, Ash sat on the heaviest ball to catch his breath. He was then startled by a ball crashing next to his resting area. It belonged to Drew's Absol who used it to let Ash know that he had finished in second and would definitely be seeing him again.
"And the winners of the first heat are the team of Ash, Pikachu, Cristine and Buizel! "announced Solidad.
"Coming in second and advancing to the finals is the team of May, Glaceon, Drew and Absol." Continued Brock.
"Let's have a cheer for those who advanced and those who participated as well. This was a very competitive race after all."
Ash who was still sitting on the weighted ball was soon joined by the rest of his teammates.
"You were awesome Cristine!" praised Ash. Raising his two hands up to give the young lady a high five in celebration. "If it wasn't for that time you gave me. I don't know if we would have been able to get across the line in first."
"Really?"
"You're definitely the MVP of this team. We don't have to worry about the finals at all with you on that station. Nobody is a match for you, isn't that right guys?" cries of agreement came both from Buizel and Pikachu. This in turn caused the white haired child to grin with joy. "Now let's get out the way and watch how the others do in the second heat. So who we could see we will be coming up against in the finals."
Ash stood at the sidelines with Cristine until she was called over by her mother who hugged her for a job well done. He didn't remain alone for long as Misty made her way to his side.
"A little close there."
"Was definitely closer than I expected."
"Well if I'm to get my 50%, try not to make it as close in the finals."
"Was that supposed to be words of encouragement?"
"Just a small pep talk." Misty then playfully slapped Ash on his behind, causing Ash to jump slightly. "Go team!" Ash looked at Misty to see a smirk on her face and with a small chuckle just shook his head. "So who do you think is going to take this?"
"If they don't kill each other I will say Kai and Kazia. Considering the course, they have the right combination. Then they will be followed by either Barry and Dawn or Zaire and Keiton, the deciding factor will definitely be how they line up. Just unfortunate for the dad team."
"Why do you say that?"
"Well, they chose pokemon that don't travel really fast and well...they're veterans if you catch my drift."
"That same experience might help them out."
"It's not wise to underestimate anybody, but I have a strong feeling on this one."
"Want to bet?"
"Bet on what?"
"That they surprise you."
"So you have them coming in first or second?"
"First actually."
Ash couldn't help but laugh. "What's the wager."
"A favor."
"That's all?"
"Yep, just a favor. One that the person can't refuse."
"Thought I owed you already for letting Cristine be my partner?"
"That is that and this is this Mr. Ketchum. So what do you say?"
"Fine we have a deal, if they come in first then I owe you. If they don't then that favor is definitely mine." Ash began to lose confidence in his winning this bet as he looked at the gleam in Misty's eyes. 'This definitely won't go my way.'
Ash's instincts were definitely right, at the end of the second heat the victors were just as Misty predicted, Team Dad. Clive, Solidad's father was the first surprise. He was actually able to keep up with pokemon on the first leg. Then handing it over to Slowking, the psychic pokemon breezed through the questions as if they were an insult to his intelligence. This was the second surprise, he expected Flint to be on the third leg but instead Golem was in that position. It used rollout and weaved its way through the slalom course. With a lead built up through the first three legs, Flint was able to take his time and complete the anchor leg.
"How did you know?"
"Well, it turns out Solidad's father used to be a triathlete and competed in his fair share of triathlons. He still tries to keep up the training so that was the result of his training on display."
"Inside information huh?"
"Call it what you want, but I still won. So just remember that you owe me another one. Keep this up Ash, I might end up owning you." Misty teased.
"With the second heat finished, we now know who our four finalists are." Said Solidad.
Brock then spoke. "Now, seeing as how our finalists so expertly navigated the course…"
"…We decided to make things a little bit more difficult." finished Solidad
"The course must now be completed four times. That means that you have the choice of everybody completing the course once, or one person does each station four times or if you want you can mix it up. Bottom line is, the station must be completed four times but one person can only compete four times. So without further ado, let us get these finals started!"
Ash began to look around for Cristine but didn't see her, he looked over to the table but only saw Sierra. He walked over to the maid of honor and queried her about Cristine's whereabouts. Sierra used her eye to point Ash in the right direction. She was slouched in the chair, swinging her dangling feet and looking down.
"You ready Cristine?"
She looked at Ash, her eyes slightly misty as if she was holding back tears, she just shook her head.
"How come? We're so close to getting that big box as the first place prize. We definitely won't be able to get anywhere if you aren't on the team. So tell me what's bothering you?"
"It's that you have to do it four times, what if I mess up or can't answer the questions? What if I got lucky the first time?"
"Then you mess up, it's simple as that. You know how many times I messed up or lost Pokémon battles, tournament matches, finals, gym matches? "Cristine shook her head. "A lot, and I think I'm understating things when I say a lot. You want to know what really matters at those points when I failed?"
"You tried?"
"Exactly, I tried my very best. I learned from my mistakes and I continued to try again. Just remember there isn't anything wrong with failing Cristine. Now let's go out there and try our best, okay?"
Cristine nodded emphatically, wiping the single tear that managed to escape. Ash looked to Sierra and gave her a thumbs up before he was pulled into the direction of the starting line by Cristine.
"So this is the plan guys." Now in their huddle, Team Ash, was listening to their team Captain. "..Pikachu and Cristine, we're going to leave your stations up to you guys. The only change will be between me and Buizel, we're going to interchange on each leg. So when you start on the agility course, I will then do the strength and on the next run we swap places. Just so you know Buizel, it isn't that you couldn't handle the station all about yourself. I just know I wouldn't be able to take four times of doing that strength situation. I honestly think this would be the best line up, any comments?" Ash looked at the other members of the huddle and saw that nobody had anything else to say. "So once again on 1…2…3…" the jumbled cheer erupted and everybody went to their stations.
"Take it easy on this old man." said Flint to his competitors.
"Age is nothing when a mind is focused." Kai responded.
"You made it to the finals Flint, why should I go easy on you?" replied Ash.
"I think these old bones might have used their last strength just to make it here."
"Then just relax and take fourth place."
"If I do that, Lola won't let me hear the end of it."
"Between a rock and a hard place huh?"
"Wouldn't you know it?"
Feeling left out Absol let out a growl to show his competitors that he wasn't one to be ignored.
"Still grouchy that I beat you the last time?" Absol just bared his teeth in anger.
"Wisdom is not displayed from motivating those who may not be focused."
"He started it."
"Ready….On your marks…" announced Solidad.
"…Get set…."
"GO!" the pair said in unison.
The first leg was underway Pikachu once again took the early lead, Gallade not far behind, then Glaceon and keeping up the pace was Clive. He wasn't making any ground on the others but he wasn't being left in their wake either. As they crossed the first exchange point, Pikachu came in first allowing Cristine to start. Gallade followed shortly, then did Glaceon and Clive a few seconds behind.
A minute passed and proving to the others that her feat in the first heat wasn't a fluke, Cristine completed her questions and Buizel was given the signal to start. Also displaying his intelligence was Slowking as he was the second to finish the intelligence station. The psychic pokemon looked over at Cristine and gave her a respectful nod. Almost as if to say, challenge accepted. Buizel swiftly navigated his way through the agility course, heading across the finish line and tagging Ash in. Ash went ahead with the same strategy, heaviest first, then to the lightest. On his return trip for the second ball he could see that Flint had indeed started. Ash knew that his pace would be enough to keep him in front of Flint. On the return trip for the third, he saw that Kai was about to start and the martial artist wasted no time. He picked up the two lightest weights and began his trek in an attempt to catch up to Flint and Ash. Ash knew he didn't have any more time to waste as he noticed May coming across the finish line to tag in Absol. Ash was the first to complete the anchor leg, giving his team the right to start the second lap of the obstacle course. Kai looked at him curiously out the corner of his eye as he noticed that Ash had left his station and in his place was Buizel.
The second lap started, Pikachu widened the lead of Team Ash once again. Kai was able to catch up to Flint so Gallade started the pursuit of Pikachu with Clive following and through Absol's efforts Glaceon wasn't too far behind. Pikachu crossed the line in first, and as if it was clockwork, Cristine made quick work of the intelligence station and allowed Ash to start the slalom. Gallade was across in second, with Glaceon and Clive crossing at approximately the same time. Not to be outdone by the young lady, Slowking finished his station, much to the frustration of Kazia who growled lowly as she saw that he was finished with his station. Ash was in reach of the finish line when he heard an almost terrifying barreling sound behind him. He turned around to see the large frame of Golem using its Rollout attack to navigate through the course getting closer and closer to him. Thankfully for Ash, Cristine and Pikachu's excellent work gave him enough time to cross his station first and let Buizel get to work. It seemed as if Buizel and Absol were exchanging pleasantries as they waited at their station. This was evident as Buizel cockily smiled at Absol as he started to move the weighted balls.
Team Ash started the third lap still in the lead, there was a slight change of the finishing positions at the end of the second lap. Due to the lead that Golem gave Flint, he was able to edge Kai out slightly allowing Clive to start ahead of Gallade. Glaceon once again found itself in last position and did it's best to ensure that it wouldn't remain in last place. The first leg finished as this, Pikachu, Gallade, Glaceon and then Clive. Unfortunately for Team Kazia, the positions at the end of the second leg changed once again reflecting that of the second lap. The only difference was that Team Dad's lead was not as wide as before. The gap however between Team Ash and the others was the one constant of the course so far. Buizel did his best to add to the lead, giving Ash the chance to pace himself properly. Team Ash was moving like a well-oiled machine, Ash and Buizel seemingly the gears that would change when the situation called for it. Team Ash made their way into the final leg with their lead still intact, they were proving to be a force that refused to be reckoned with.
The final lap started the same as those before it, Pikachu was the first to start and exerted the remaining of its energy to ensure that there weren't going to be any surprises. Clive was the second to start, deciding that now was not the time to leave anything in the tank he started to accelerate. Gallade was close behind him, along with Glaceon attempting to close the gap as best as possible. Pikachu darted across the exchange line, Clive then crossed, and surprisingly he was not far off. His over exertion was obvious as he flopped onto the floor panting heavily next to the electric mouse. This was now a head to head between Cristine and Slowking, the alarm sound for a correct answer rang almost in sync, except that Cristine was in the lead and with each question the milliseconds between beeping sounds turned into seconds. With that Ash was given the go ahead but Golem was not too far off. It wasn't long after Ash started that he could hear the careening sound of a rock slide behind him as Golem veered side to side.
'Gat damnit' thought Ash as he could see Golem slowly appear in the corner of his eye. Also to make matters worse Riolu was also appearing in his peripheral as well. 'Ugh, should have let Buizel take this one. Go legs, go!'
Ash and Golem crossed the line at the simultaneously, Riolu not far behind. This meant that Buizel and Flint started with the slightest leads over the emerald haired pokemon trainer. Doing as Ash instructed, Buizel started with the heaviest then continued to move on. Flint was doing the same, but was struggling to keep the pace as fatigue was definitely starting to set in. On the third trip, it was beginning to look as it was now a two horse race as Flint was beginning to fade. It was now down to the final ball, Kai had left the heaviest for last but Buizel had the opposite. With the final ball in tow, Buizel made it across the finish line, centimeters before Kai who narrowly lost. With the event finished, one would believe that cheers would erupt in celebration but all of the competitors were too exhausted to let out a cheer. All except for the young lady Cristine who was jumping up and down with excitement, she picked up the tuckered out Pikachu and sprinted towards Ash who was laying down on his back, Buizel playfully poking him to see if he is alright.
"You're enjoying this aren't you?" said Ash to Buizel who let out a pleased cry.
"Good win, strategy was definitely the key to victory." Congratulated Kai as he offered his hand to assist Ash in getting up.
"You almost destroyed the strategy with your inhuman strength."
"Yet I didn't."
"So there you have it ladies and gentleman. The winners of our little competition. Cristine, Buizel, Pikachu and Ash!" announced Solidad.
"Since it's getting late, will you guys please come and collect your prize."
"We have a big day ahead of us tomorrow, and we promise you that the fun will continue tomorrow."
"Let's just say we have an interesting surprise in store." said Solidad with a smirk on her face.
Team Ash made their way to the makeshift stage and accepted the individual ribbons then they were presented with the gold box. Brock handed it to Ash, who then handed it over to Cristine.
"This is yours, you were the MVP of our team. Wouldn't have been able to win without you." Cristine beamed a smile from ear to ear, visibly showing her elation. After the congratulations and cheers, the team returned to their table. The worn out Pikachu found himself snuggled on Ash's lap, Buizel on the other hand still seemed to have energy as it got into a heated discussion with Drew's Absol. As things started to escalate the two trainer's recalled their pokemon.
"So what's in the box Cristine?" asked Misty.
"I don't know, Mom told me not to open it until we get back by Solidad's house."
Ash couldn't help but chuckle as he could see how much Cristine was restraining her curiosity so that she would obey her mother's wishes. "I'm going to go ask her if we can go home yet." The young girl jumped off her chair and headed in the direction of her mother.
"So how are you going to pay me?" asked Misty.
"Don't have a prize to split with you. Can I give you 50% of my ribbon?" asked Ash playfully, presenting the prized ribbon to Misty in jest.
Misty snatched the ribbon from his hand. "For being a smart ass, I think this is 100% mine now."
"How about a trade?"
"Thought you didn't have anything to give me 50% of?"
Ash then leaned in and planted a deep kiss on Misty's lips, one she started to return and after a few blissful seconds Ash moved away parting their lips. "Deal?"
"I think we can work something out." she whispered into his ears before biting on his earlobe then lightly kissing him on his cheek.
Cristine then reappeared in blur, her mother had notified her that they were leaving. In a swift motion she waved farewell to Misty and Pikachu, gave Ash a hug and then ran after her mother, her prized box in possession.
"Shall we be leaving too?" asked Ash.
"I have a few more things for us to do before I let you go to sleep Ash."
"A few more things? With such a long day ahead of us tomorrow."
"That just means time is of the essence then doesn't it." Misty got up from her seat and then pulled on Ash's hand insisting that he didn't have a choice in the matter.
Author's Note: Go and read the next chapter