Hey all! I hope you're ready for chapter 66. Consider this one last chapter before things pick up again. What sort of craziness will Tsukki and Yama get involved in today? Let's find out!
This chapter was beta read by my regular beta reader Killer_Squids (they are also back from their vacation). You can find their work on AO3 here ( /users/Killer_Squids). They can also be found on tumblr under the name land-banana. They have done a wonderful job with betaing for me so if you have time please give there page a look.
Any Artwork you may see associated with this fic (on AO3, or Tumblr) has all been created by my good friend SlothyClaws. That is their instagram also have a website ( .com). They do commissions and their commissions are open to anyone that is interested. Go and give their page a look if you are interested.
I choose you, chapter 66!
Ambrette Town
It was late in the night when Yamaguchi and Sugawara arrived in Ambrette Town. The two returned the car to a rental stop before heading to Hotel Ambrette, the only hotel in the small town besides the Pokemon Center hostel. Since Sugawara was one of the front-runners for the Kalos King title, he was able to snag them a room for the few days they'd be spending in Ambrette Town.
The hotel was beautiful and located right next to a cliff that overlooked the sea. Their room was on the second floor and overlooked the ocean. While Yamaguchi could not see much in the dark of the night, he could hear the crashing of the waves on the cliff and smell the salty sea air. It reminded him of his home in Alola for a moment.
"You going to head to bed soon?" Sugawara asked as he settled himself on one side of the room.
Despite the hotel being busy with people coming in for the upcoming showcase, they were lucky enough to score a room with two twin beds. Yamaguchi wondered if this had anything to do with Sugawara's fame. He wondered if he'd ever be famous enough to persuade hotel workers to give him the room he wanted the way Sugawara could.
Yamaguchi turned as he stifled a yawn. Despite having napped in the car a few times he was exhausted. "I don't think I can stay up even a moment longer," he replied as he dug in his bag for his pajamas.
"Well, you better hit the hay then," Sugawara agreed as a yawn escaped him as well. "I'm sure you'll be busy tomorrow preparing for the showcase in a few days."
Too tired from the camp ending and their day's travels, Yamaguchi hadn't even thought about what he'd do tomorrow. He decided he'd worry about it in the morning.
It wasn't long before both trainers were in their pajamas and snuggled deep in their respective beds. It was warm now that it was summer and they had decided to leave the window cracked. Yamaguchi's bed was closest to the open window and the sound of the ocean lulled him into a twilight state. With Eevee snuggled close to him he found it hard to keep his eyes open.
Sugawara mumbled something from his end of the room before turning out the lights. Yamaguchi, far too tired, didn't catch what had been said but replied with a muffled groan of acknowledgment nonetheless. Yamaguchi felt warm and comfortable and with the sound of the ocean and the smell of the salty air wafting in through the window he felt at home. As he drifted off to sleep, he fantasized about seeing Tsukki once more, holding the taller trainer in his arms, and kissing him on the cheek. It was a bold thought, but Yamaguchi smiled broadly as he fell fully asleep.
Yamaguchi and Eevee slept in late the next morning. It had been a while since Yamaguchi didn't have to set an alarm, and it seemed that Sugawara also shared a similar passion for sleep. It was Sugawara who woke first that morning. He allowed Yamaguchi to sleep in but once 10 am rolled around he decided he'd have to wake up the younger trainer before he slept the day away.
"Hey, Yamaguchi, it's time to wake up," Sugawara gently said as he gave Yamaguchi a small nudge.
Yamaguchi didn't stir, but Eevee could be seen as a lump moving beneath the sheets as she readjusted herself.
"Time to wake up, Yamaguchi," Sugawara tried once more, this time with a bit more strength.
Once more Yamaguchi didn't move but a grumble could be heard from where Eevee lay beneath the sheets.
Sugawara hadn't seen Yamaguchi as such a heavy sleeper. Perhaps a bit of tough love would be necessary. Grabbing the bedsheets and using all his strength, Sugawara yanked them off of Yamaguchi. "Wake up!"
Eevee gave a yelp as she tumbled to the floor. She shot Sugawara a seething glare for the rude awakening, but Yamaguchi merely shivered before rolling over and carrying on with his snoozing.
"Is he always this difficult to wake up?" Sugawara sighed, looking to Eevee.
The shiny Pokemon only scowled at him, still bitter about having been tossed off the bed.
Thinking quickly, Sugawara knew just how to wake Yamaguchi up. Striding over to the window he looked outside and in a loud voice proclaimed "Oh, is that Tsukishima I see on the beach in a swimsuit?"
That did the trick! Yamaguchi shot up in bed. His hair was a mess and a bit of drool dripped from his mouth. "T-Tsukki?" He mumbled incoherently.
"Jeeze, took you long enough to wake up," Sugawara laughed. "You sleep like the dead."
Yamaguchi, a bit disoriented, rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he took in his surroundings. It took him a long moment to recall where he was. "Morning, Sugawara," he greeted before releasing a large yawn.
"You ready to get up or what?" Sugawara said, giving Yamaguchi's back a hearty pat.
"Sorry, I guess I was just having a good dream," Yamaguchi replied with a sheepish grin.
"Was it about a certain blond?" Sugawara teased.
Yamaguchi's cheeks went pink as he hid his face. How had Sugawara figured out his crush so easily?
"Get dressed and let's get some breakfast," Sugawara said with a toothy smile, enjoying the reaction he got out of Yamaguchi.
Not wanting to be the victim to more of Sugawara's teasing, Yamaguchi dressed quickly and before long the two were on their way to a local cafe for breakfast. It was one Sugawara had frequented often and the workers seem to know who he was. Whether it was due to Sugawara's fame or because he came here often they were treated to some complimentary pastries. Yamaguchi couldn't help but admire Sugawara. The older trainer was obviously famous for his showcase performances, but you wouldn't have known it just by talking with him. Unlike Oikawa, Sugawara was humble, down to earth, and caring.
It was afternoon by the time the two were done with breakfast. Yamaguchi insisted that he didn't mind training on his own, but Sugawara wouldn' have any of it. The two headed down to the beach where they could find all the space they needed to train for the day.
"Training on the sand will help with your muscle buildup and balance," Sugawara said as the two scoped out a good place for the day.
It was definitely different walking on the sand then on solid ground. Yamaguchi wondered just how much he'd be tripping all over himself today. Despite the Showcase just being in a day not many people were at the beach. Sugawara suspected most people would be arriving tonight or tomorrow morning.
After scoping out a nice spot, the two set up for the day. Yamaguchi called out Riolu who made a beeline for the waves the second she caught sight of the sea. Eevee scampered after her and before Yamaguchi could stop them, they were playing in the surf.
"Hey you two! We came here to train, now play," Yamaguchi said as he chased after them. He couldn't be angry with them though. Perhaps some time out on the sand would help relax their nerves after such a rigorous camp.
He called out Brionne and Swirlix so they too could enjoy the sunny day. Sugawara as well called out his Milotic, Cinccino, and Audino to enjoy the sunny day as well. While the Pokemon played in the surf, Yamaguchi and Riolu got down to their routine practice. They had to make sure they had it down perfectly by tomorrow. As the minutes passed, Yamaguchi's normal anxieties began to fester.
He believed in his and Riolu's routine but failure was something that haunted him. What if he couldn't make it past round one? All of the practice would be for nothing if he couldn't make it to round two. Despite the thoughts haunting him, he did his best to stay focused.
Sugawara gave advice to Yamaguchi as much as he could, and whenever Riolu needed a break the two trainers would go over round one themes and review the best courses of action. Both Sugawara and Yamaguchi were certain that round one for Ambrette Town showcase was going to be trivia themed and most likely focusing on fossils, since that was the theme of this particular showcase. Yamaguchi was betting on this and knew everything there is to know about ancient Pokemon and fossils thanks to his best friend. He just hoped they were right about round one.
The sand made training a challenge, but he and Riolu were in sync now more than ever. Yamaguchi didn't want to jinx himself but he felt confident in both himself and in Riolu. He was excited and ready for the showcase but most of all he wanted to show Tsukki just how much he had changed in this short time. The idea of Tsukki watching this routine set his heart on fire.
"You are Riolu look amazing," Sugawara cheered upon seeing the two complete the routine once more. "You truly are turning into a formidable opponent. I hope I don't live to regret helping you this much," he joked as he studied Yamaguchi and Riolu.
Both Pokemon and trainer looked exhausted but satisfied. "Thanks," Yamaguchi laughed, unable to wipe the smile off his face as he collapsed in the sand. Riolu immediately jumped into his lap, snuggling close to her beloved trainer.
"Do you feel ready for tomorrow?" Sugawara asked as he sat beside the younger trainer.
"As ready as I'll ever be," Yamaguchi grinned, giving Riolu a rather affectionate snuggle. Riolu gave a joyful bark.
Sugawara smiled in approval, unable to hide the joy he felt for the younger trainer. There was something satisfying about helping others grow.
"Thanks for all the help, Sugawara. I really appreciate all you've done for me," Yamaguchi said, relaxing a bit now that he was done training for the day.
"It's my pleasure," Sugawara grinned like a proud mother. "I just can't wait to see you wow everyone tomorrow."
"As long as I don't mess it up," Yamaguchi laughed. "I am a magnet for trouble after all."
"You're a magnet for no such thing," Sugawara scolded. "You can just forget what Oikawa said. He was just being an ass."
"Yeah, I know," Yamaguchi sighed. He was excited, but still worried that his bad luck would ruin all this hard work.
"You're going to be fine tomorrow," Sugawara reassured. "And if anything gets in the way I will be sure to personally beat it up for you."
Yamaguchi merely laughed at this. He pitied anyone who would be on the receiving end of Sugawara's anger. The man was the nicest guy alive, but Yamaguchi was pretty sure he could be just as brutal when he wanted to be.
The two headed back into town when Yamaguchi's stomach growled so loudly they couldn't ignore it. Sugawara took him to his favorite restaurant by the sea to celebrate a job well done. Eating local food and laughing until the sun went down was a great way to help keep Yamaguchi's heart at ease.
Things had been crazy for Yamaguchi in the past few months. Between his almost kidnappings, Tsukki almost giving up, and losing showcases many times Yamaguchi was emotionally exhausted. Going to the camp and meeting everyone, gaining their support, and building new friendships had really helped him get back on track. He didn't know if Tsukki had been as worn out as he was, but he hoped that Tsukki was also able to calm down a bit while at his camp.
Yamaguchi looked forward to seeing Tsukki tomorrow. He'd perform in the showcase, win that key, and confess his feelings to his best friend. The idea both excited Yamaguchi but equally scared him. Deep down he knew Tsukki loved him back but the fear of rejection still haunted him. What if he was wrong about Tsukki's feelings? What would he do then? No matter what happened tomorrow, Yamaguchi would not regret it.
Tsukishima scowled as he rode from the back of the SUV, this time having Kuroo as his back seat partner. He had no clue why they hadn't driven straight to Ambrette Town the day before. They had stopped off at some stupid Inn yesterday afternoon that served famous Kalos Pokepuffs. They were good, but nothing like the Pokepuffs Yamaguchi made. They then decided to say the night at the inn and took forever to get back on the road the next day. Tsukishima felt like they were dawdling on purpose. All he wanted to do was get to Ambrette Town and see Yamaguchi.
"I can see you're thinking about your dear princess again," Kuroo teased from beside him. His sly eyes studied Tsukishima in a mocking way.
Tsukishima regret's Kuroo having every figured out his crush on Yamaguchi but the older trainer had probably figured it out the first time they'd met. "Leave me alone," he grumbled in reply.
"I wonder if Yamaguchi is thinking about you as well," Kuroo pressed, looking out the window at the purple sky. "I bet he is just itching to be reunited with his prince."
Tsukishima rolled his eyes.
"When you two get married, I want to be the best man," Kuroo carried on, turning back to face Tsukishima.
"No way! I'm going to be best man!" Bokuto spoke up, causing the car to swerve a bit.
"Keep your eyes on the road!" Tsukishima snapped. "And neither of you are going to be best man!"
Kuroo and Bokuto both cackled, only for Akaashi to scold Bokuto as well. "You really need to focus on driving Bokuto, it's getting dark."
Tsukishima probably would have died for frustration yesterday if Akaashi hadn't been there to control the two.
"So you haven't received many texts from Yama-chan?" Kuroo asked, calming down a bit.
How Kuroo knew this Tsukishima didn't know. "It's none of your business."
"You're always grumpy when Yamaguchi neglects to talk with you," Kuroo teased, not scared of Tsukishima regardless of how crabby he got.
"Don't worry, Tsukki," Bokuto said from the front. "I bet he's just busy getting ready for the showcase."
"So, when do you plan to confess to him?" Kuroo asked, leaning closer to Tsukki like an excited school girl ready to soak up some gossip.
Tsukishima felt a vein pop in his head. "It's none of your business," he repeated. Like hell he'd get these two bozos involved with him and Yamaguchi.
"Come on, Tsukki, you're a bro now, and bros gotta be there to support each other," Bokuto loudly explained.
"I'm not a bro," Tsukishima curtly replied.
Bokuto and Kuroo just laughed.
"Sure you are," Kuroo insisted slinging his arm around Tsukishima. "And we bros gotta stick together and support each other."
Tsukishima felt the sudden need to murder.
All Akaashi could do was turn and send Tsukishima a sorry look. "This is how they show they care. I promise," was all he said before turning back around.
It was annoying, but Tsukishima couldn't bring himself to hate these guys. They had done so much for him in the past week. He was definitely a different trainer then before. He'd never admit it aloud but if he was to trust Yamaguchi with anyone, it would probably be Kuroo and Bokuto for they really did seem to care. He'd die before every saying it aloud though.
It was late when the group arrived in Ambrette Town and somehow Bokuto was able to get them a room at the Ambrette Hotel. Being one of the elite four Tsukishima wasn't surprised. He was set up to share a room with Akaashi. As the group split into two groups for the night Bokuto and Kuroo cheered about how they were going to party tonight.
Once in his room Tsukishima pulled out his Dex. He saw that it was already 10pm and wondered if Yamaguchi was still awake.
'Just arrived in Ambrette Town,' he wrote to Yamaguchi, pressing send.
A moment later he got a reply from Yamaguchi. 'I'm happy you made it safely. I will see you tomorrow after the showcase. Please make sure you watch my routine. I'm excited for you to see it.'
Tsukishima was oddly disappointed. He had hoped Yamaguchi would run to see him now. It was such a stupid romantic thing for him to think of and it embarrassed him. The sound of the ocean outside and the smell of the sea only made Tsukishima miss Yamaguchi more.
'I won't be late. Get some good rest, Yamaguchi,' Tsukishima replied before settling into his bed.
'I miss you, Tsukki. Good night 3' Yamaguchi replied a moment later.
The small heart in the message affected Tsukki more then he'd admit. He wanted to see Yamaguchi now. He wondered if he'd be able to sleep tonight with the longing he felt. Doing his best to stay calm, Tsukishima pulled out his tablet to read up on some recently discovered fossils in Galar. The article helped distract him but he just couldn't get seeing Yamauchi off his mind. He had become a hopeless romantic. Sure, it was pathetic but he wouldn't trade it for the world for Yamaguchi was worth it.
Author Note:
Oh my. The two are just one sleep away from seeing each other again. How will their reunion go? Will Yamaguchi win the key? Will he confess his love to Tsukki? How will Tsukki react if this happens? The suspense is just overwhelming. The only way to find out is to stay tuned!
As always, thank you all so much for your kudos, follows, bookmarks, comments, and reviews. I absolutely love hearing from you all so please tell me your thoughts on this fic.
Next week's chapter should be out on time no problem. For those of you who may be new here, I will try to post once a week during the weekend when I have time. Keep an eye out between Friday and Sunday for new chapters. I am so excited for the next few upcoming chapters. Once again we are going to roll into some new territory and more secrets shall be revealed. I hope you guys are ready for come change 3
That's all I have to say for now. See you next chapter.