Inner Beauty Expressed Through Love, a pokémon fanfic

Today, I provide to you a brand new pokemon themed one-shot for your viewing pleasure. This will be a ( Serena x OC ) one-shot, just trying something new out. I do not own pokemon in any way or form, and I do not own the song and lyrics that I use today as well, throwing in the disclaimers. Now, let's get to it!

In the Kalos region, there are many beautiful sights to behold and fun, little activities for everyone to partake in. If you love battling or watching battles, there's the Battle Chateau and the Kalos league circuit of gyms. If you love to dance and perform, there are the pokemon showcases and the showcase Masterclass at the end of the season. In fact, that is where we find Vaniville Town native Serena Yvonne. She was currently training with Delphox and Sylveon, preparing for her first showcase, currently going to happen in Shalour City in three days, since returning from participating in contests in the Hoenn region. During that time, Braixen and Pancham evolved into Delphox and Pangoro, and Serena caught two new teammates: a Sceptile and a shiny Altaria. With their help, she easily dominated the contest circuit and won the Grand Festival, beating her mentor May in the finals.

After winning, she decided to return home to have another go at the showcases and another shot for Kalos Queen. Things were really looking up as she felt that this time, she had a real good shot at winning the Masterclass. However, even the upsides of good things have its downsides. Since the separation at the end of her Kalos journey with her friends, Serena has not been able to remain in contact with her friends. Clemont was busy as gym leader and inventing new things, which was almost a 24 / 7 basis. Bonnie was currently enrolled in trainer's school in preparation to become a trainer. Ash...well...she hasn't spoken with him in over a month. Even if she wanted to, she had no intentions with talking to him anyways because...let's say that they were in the middle of a fallout. What exactly went down between them was...it's better explained in a flashback.

It was the day after the Grand Festival. Serena had just hung up with her mother, telling her about her huge win, to which Grace was very proud of her for. Afterwards, she decided to call Ash as she dialed his number and waited for him to pick up. Once he did, Serena told him about her win as he praised her for accomplishing such a goal. Then, she said,"You know..I have some time before I head back to Kalos. Maybe I can come over to Kanto and we could...hang out for a couple of days"? Ash then grew hesitant as he says,"Well, it'd be great to hang out, but...I can't...at least at the moment." Serena could tell that something was up as she says,"Is everything ok Ash"? It was then that things took a turn for the worst as he admitted to her..that he was seeing someone. At first, Serena thought he was joking, considering he was dense when she travelled with him. She kept that thought up until Ash said,"I have a date later on tonight. Look, I got to go, but it was great talking with you again. Bye," before he hung up. In that moment, she knew he was telling the truth...and it hurt badly. Ash...was in a relationship...with someone else! Did that kiss on the escalator mean nothing?!?! All the signs and memos she threw at him...they were all wasted chances...and now...he was gone for good.

Since then, she hasn't spoken a word with Ash. All the messages he left her were automatically deleted, not wanting to hear his voice. Now though, she wants to focus less on him and more on winning the showcases. However, that was about to change when she heard a cry for help. She returned her pokemon and went to find the source of that sound deep in the forest. As she looked, Serena came across of where it came from: a girl stuck in a bush bramble, with an unknown pokemon trying to scare off an Ursaring. The girl looked to be her age, had long, extremely long, brown hair, hazel eyes, wore glasses, and wore a T-shirt with a leather jacket over it, jeans, and black sneakers. She watched in fear of her pokemon partner, who was battling the Ursaring. It looked like a humanoid, bipedal wolf with red eyes, dark red and white fur, flowing with a towering mane. Serena ran towards the girl, asking,"Are you ok"? The girl nodded, saying,"I'm ok, but I'm stuck. And that Ursaring is trying to attack us." It fired a hyperbeam as the unknown pokemon dodged and used fire punch, sending it back a bit. Serena quickly knelt down and helped untangle the girl from the bramble as the unknown pokemon then used sand attack to blind Ursaring momentarily.

Serena used this opportunity to free the girl as they all ran away before the Ursaring could recover and spot them. Soon, they ran back into town safe and sound. As both girls took the moment to catch their breath, the rescued girl looked at Serena and said,"Thanks for saving me back there. If you hadn't showed up, we would've been done for." Serena smiled, saying,"No problem. At least you're both safe now." When the girl got a good look at Serena, she gasped in shock and said with much excitement,"Holy Heatmors!!! You're Serena Yvonne from Vaniville Town"!!! Serena looked at her, a bit surprised, saying,"Yeah, how did you know"? The girl smiled, saying,"I've seen every showcase and contest you've competed in!!! You're a superstar!! I'm such a huge fan!!! The way you performed in the finals of the Masterclass was astounding"!!! Serena blushes in embarrassment, saying,"Well, I'm glad to see you're such a fan. I just try to make my routines fun and enjoyable for us and the audience." The girl squealed in excitement, saying,"Truer words were never spoken. Let's keep that in mind at the next dance battle we see, ok Rory," as her pokemon partner smiled and grunted in agreement.

Then, the girl face palmed while saying,"Ah! Stupid me! Where are my manners," before bowing towards Serena, saying,"I'm Melissa, I'm from Melemele Island in the Alola region. This is my number 1 partner, Rory, who is a rock type pokemon known as Lycanroc. This is his midnight form, which he got upon evolution during the evening before we came here. We came here to battle and win the Kalos League. Please to meet you," as Rory and Melissa offered a handshake. Serena giggled, accepting their handshakes, saying,"It's a pleasure to meet you both." Melissa blushed, saying,"I can't believe we've only been here for a week, so far, winning our first badge by beating Korrina and Mega Lucario and already, I'm meeting my idol." Serena blushed in embarrassment again, saying,"Aw!! That's so sweet! You really consider me to be your idol," as Melissa nodded, saying,"Yes!! You're sweet, you're kind, you're brave, you're talented, you have the cutest team of pokemon. you're wise, you're generous, you're really, really, really, really, really pretty...", that last part causing Melissa to turn away momentarily to blush.

Serena could tell how she felt as she grabbed her hands, saying,"You're beautiful too." Melissa looked down momentarily, saying,"Really? Cause a lot of people don't see it that way." That part made Serena curious as Melissa told her,"In fact, one of the reasons why I came to Kalos was so I could avoid all the teasing and insults in Alola. They always call me ugly names such as Emo Kid, Loner Tyke, Rapunzel...which you could see why. My only friends were the trial captains and island kahunas, but I still get teased. Even at home, I couldn't hold up to my parents' standards of beauty. They wouldn't have even let me kept Rory when I first met it if I hadn't left before things got worse or too much to bear." Rory whimpered in sadness as Serena was shocked to be hearing this.

In an act of helping her new friend feel better, she had Melissa in a tight hug as the Alola native was surprised, but accepted the embrace anyways. Once she let go, Serena placed a comforting hand on Melissa's shoulder, saying,"Listen, don't what anyone else say get to you. You're beautiful in your own, special way. So what if people don't agree? There are those who'd love the way you look." Melissa sighed, saying,"I know, but for once, I wish I was as pretty as the girls I'd see in the showcase. Maybe even as pretty as you." An idea seemed to cross Serena's mind as she faced her, saying,"If you want, I could help you. A little makeover might be all you need to really see what you have to offer when it comes to beauty. You don't have to change how to dress because I think it suits you already. If you'll let me, and even if it doesn't work, it'll at least make you feel better." Melissa smiled while saying,"You'll really do that for me? But why? We only just met and just became friends and I'm sure you're getting ready for the next showcase. So, why would you go through all this trouble for me"?

Serena smiled while a faint pink grew on her cheeks, saying,"Because you're my friend and I'd do anything to help a friend." The two hugged one another again before heading towards the pokemon center. Inside the room Serena was staying in, Rory was laying on the bed as Melissa sat on the edge as Serena got some supplies together. With everything set, she brought her stuff over while saying,"Let's get started." She got a hold of one of Melissa's hands before saying,"Do you normally do your nails"? Melissa shrugged, saying,"My mother enforces monthly manicures for all of us. Always wants our nails as nice as the sun." Serena opened up a bottle of red nail polish while saying,"Have you ever painted them before"? Melissa smiled, saying,"Just once, but it only lasted an hour before my father made me take it off." Serena started to slowly paint Melissa's nails while saying,"You should do it more often. I do it every now and then, it's fun. Plus, I think red's your color." As this went on, Melissa couldn't help but smile, being extremely grateful that Serena, her idol, would take time out of her day just to help her with something like this.

Once Serena finished with her right hand and started to work on her left, Melissa asked,"Hey, when you finish, could I paint your nails"? Serena looked up and smiled, nodding while saying,"Sure. I've been meaning to do it again." Soon enough, Serena was finished as Melissa admired her newly painted nails, smiling in gratitude. She got up from where she was sitting and Rory moved over a bit so Serena could sit down. Melissa asked,"Which color," as Serena selected red as well, leaving Melissa to open the bottle again and start applying the red nail polish onto Serena's hands. She went slowly so she wouldn't make any mistakes while Serena admired the technique she used. In just a couple of minutes, Melissa was finished as Serena admired the handiwork, saying,"Nice job. You're a natural at this." Melissa blushed while saying,"Thanks, but it took me a while to get the technique down pat when I first started." Rory growled compliments for both girls as they said in unison,"We're almost like twins! Jinx!! Double Jinx"!!!

After sharing a small chuckle, Serena led Melissa to a chair placed in the middle of the room. She then said,"Now, I have an idea on what to do next, but it doesn't have to happen if you're uncomfortable about it." Melissa looked up at Serena, saying,"Whatever it is, I'm cool with it. So, what do you have in mind"? Serena went to the desk drawer where her supplies her and grabbed a thin bristle brush and a pair of scissors, saying,"Are you alright with me...cutting your hair"? Rory jaw dropped at the question as Melissa pondered for a minute, saying,"I've been growing it out since the day I was born...and a new hairstyle would be fun to try. Ok. Let's do it." Serena had a big smile plastered on as Rory grinned and was excited to watch. Serena then asked,"Do you have a preferred style or do you want something random"? Melissa looked at her before saying,"I honestly don't know." The Vaniville Town native got another idea as she says,"I think I know what to do. Just trust me, ok"?

Melissa nodded as Serena got behind her, starting things off by brushing her hair. Melissa laid her head back a bit, giving Serena more access to it, while displaying a relaxed smile. As this kept up, Serena took the time to compliment to Melissa,"I must say I really like how well-kept your hair is. It's really soft, smooth, almost like silk. Plus, it's tangle free, making the job of brushing it a lot easier." Melissa blushed while saying,"It's not an easy job I tell you. I have to get up at 5 in the morning just to spend an hour or two detangling it, depending how bad it is when I wake up. I use up 1-3 bottles of shampoo and conditioner a month just to keep it clean and shiny. It can be exhausting, right Rory," as her Lycanroc nodded and yawned to make a statement. Serena laughed while saying,"When I'm finished, you won't have to worry about having any troubles with it." As Serena placed the brush down and prepared to grab the scissors, she could not help but have her fingers linger in Melissa's long hair for just a little longer. She really enjoyed it, the feeling of silky smoothness caress her skin ever so lightly, and judging by the content sighs she keep hearing from Melissa, Melissa seems to be enjoying her touch as well.

So, she kept running her hands through Melissa's hair, just "ridding it of any tangles that she might've missed." In reality, Serena was really enjoying this as a content smile and a pink blush appeared on her face. She hasn't felt like this in a long time and this was a feeling she missed having. As she kept it up, Serena thought to herself: It's strange, but...ever since I broke things off with Ash, I've had this feeling inside of me that wanted me to find someone new. I haven't been really able to connect with anyone this way. Then, Melissa shows up and suddenly, it's back all over again but stronger. Why though? We barely know each other, but somehow, is as if we were...supposed to meet like this. I've always liked guys growing up, so, could it be that...Rory had to mimic a cough in order for Serena to snap out of it and grab the scissors. She held them close before adjusting her grip on the handles. After taking a shaky deep breath in and out, she used her fingers to align how short to cut it. Finding a suitable length, she began to use the scissors, cutting away at Melissa's long, brown locks with precise accuracy. Melissa was enjoying it a lot as Serena seemed to be enjoying it as well. Rory watched in awe, seeing its trainer receive such relaxing treatment and loving it. After a while, Serena placed the scissors down, picking the brush back up and using it on Melissa again. From the common eye, you could see that Melissa's hair was now drastically shortened to just a few inches past her shoulders. Serena then placed the brush down before grabbing a bit of hair, turning it into a braid. This surprised the Alola native as before, she was never allow to let anyone, or herself, braid her hair before. Her parents always said that braids were a common, not glamorous style that only "country folks" were allowed to wear.

Melissa smiled in content as Serena was finishing up with the braid. She felt like something was missing before grabbing something from her pocket. The blue ribbon...the one that...Ash...gave to her as a gift. She shook her head, returning to her senses before tying the blue ribbon into a beautiful bow on the braid. She smiled and said,"There. All finished," as Melissa got up and smiled, saying,"How does it look"? Serena held a mirror while saying,"Look for yourself." Melissa gazed into the reflective glass and stood in shock, unable to speak. The braids seemed to come from the side of her head, merging into one beautiful braid, tied with a blue bow. Rory smiled, growling its compliments as Melissa sat on the edge of the bed, still silent. Serena anticipated a response, a little nervous on what she would say. Slowly, Melissa was able to say,"This is me"? Serena sat next to her, saying,"Of course it's you. Who else could it be"? Melissa kept gazing into the mirror, saying,"I look so...different. Not in a bad way...just...having trouble accepting that it's actually me and not someone else."

Serena then held the mirror close to the pair of them, saying,"You know what I see? I see a strong, confident, beautiful trainer. She's gorgeous, not because of what I see on the outside, but because of what I see on the inside. It's you Melissa and that's how I see you." Melissa looked up at Serena and smiled with a faint blush, saying,"No one has ever done something this nice for me...ever." She hugged Serena tightly as Serena blushed and accepted it with her own warm embrace, making both girls smile in happiness. What broke the moment was three loud, rumbling stomachs coming from the trio, causing them to break into laughter. Melissa was the first to catch her breath saying,"Guess that makeover has made us all quite famished." Serena stood up from the bed, saying,"You're right about that. So, let's clean up and then go get something to eat. Sounds good," as Melissa and Rory both nodded in agreement. As they got everything together, Serena thought: Maybe going to lunch with her will help me understand better how I feel around her.

After getting the room spotless again, they went out and found a great restaurant to eat at. They were both ushered to a table outside as they took their seats and looked at the menus. Once they gave their orders, the waiter went back inside as the girls decided to strike a conversation with one another. Serena started things off with,"So, why don't you tell me a little bit about yourself? Like, how you met Rory," as Melissa smiled and said,"Oh, well, how we met is quite the tale to tell, right Rory," as Rory nodded while chewing on a breadstick. Melissa continued with,"I remember it like it was yesterday.

It was a couple of months back, around the day after my tenth birthday. My parents never allowed me to go outside in the day unless it was an errand and always left me alone at night because they were always attending beauty galas that I was too young to attend. They lasted till almost 3 in the morning. One night, I snuck out, picking the lock with a stray bobbypin, and got to sit by the shoreline, which felt nice. It was then that I noticed a pokemon behind a bush by my house." Melissa went up to the bush and found a Rockruff eating a Pecha Berry, who looked up at her and smiled. She said,"Hi there. You wanna be friends," as it yipped in excitement and smiled. "Since then, every night, I snuck out and met with Rory, telling it about my days and the troubles I went through as it understood well, always feeling sorry for me. I called him Rory since he would "roar" at any trespassers near the house and since then, the name stuck. I wanted him to be my pokemon partner because I wanted to be a trainer like my big sister in Sinnoh, but my parents would never allow it.

One night, I had enough of them controlling my life. I wanted to make my own path. So, when they left that evening around last week, I packed a suitcase, grabbed my passport, snuck out and locked the door, called Rory, and we ran all the way to the airport. Along the way, something magical happened." As Melissa and Rory ran through the forest, Rory howled at the moon while glowing as Melissa watched, saying,"It's evolving." Rory grew and changed shape, soon becoming a Midnight form Lycanroc. Melissa smiled and hugged Rory, saying,"Wow!! You evolved! I'm so proud of you," as Rory yipped and smiled back. "I caught him using a spare pokeball I had just for this moment before letting him out to be with me again. We hopped on the next plane to Kalos and arrived in Lumious before traveling together to Shalour City to begin our journey. Along the way, we faced many trainers and won all the battles they threw at us, growing stronger and closer with one another.

Since then, Rory and I have been at each other's side as close friends and companions," as Rory and Melissa fist bumped one another. Serena smiled, saying,"I'm glad to see that you two have grown close with one another. It's like you two are meant to be." We smiled and flashed toothy grins before Serena asked,"So, you have an older sister"? She nodded, saying,"Yep. She's a really strong trainer, the strongest in all of Sinnoh, and I wish to be just like her. One day, when we see her again, we'll challenge her to a battle and show her how much stronger we've gotten together! We'll defeat her Garchomp! Right Rory," as her Lycanroc howled in agreement. Serena then asked,"If your sister lives in Sinnoh, was she born in Alola too"? Melissa responded with,"Technically, my parents used to live in Sinnoh and we moved to Alola when I was one. However, right before we did was when my sister courageously walked out of my parents' lives as well. She wanted to be a trainer and had just caught herself a Gible. She was only 16 when this occurred, but I viewed her as a hero since then.

In Snowpoint City at night, a lonely cabin shines a bright light and may seem quiet. On the inside is a whole 'nother story. "You know the rules!! No pokemon in the house unless they meet our standards in beautiful," a middle age woman with blonde, curly hair and plastic surgery done everywhere on her. A middle age man with a brown hair mullet, a faint mustache, and wearing fancy clothing says,"Your mother is right and that "thing" is nowhere near the standards. You will take it outside and release it immediately." The 16 year old girl grimaced at her parents while the pokeball remained in her hands while one year old Melissa watched in sadness. With her mind made, the girl says,"You know what? No way! I love Gible with all my heart! He and I will be partners and I will become a trainer! I'm not going to live under your standards cause you know I'll never reach them. I'm not going to stand for this anymore," before she grabbed her coat and ran out of the house, wanting to be out of their presence." All the girl could say was,"Melissa...I'm so sorry," before disappearing into the night.

That was the last time I saw her. I've wanted to meet up with her, but since she travelled so much and was all over the word, it was hard to keep track on her movement. However, I was able to keep in touch with her through letters and the occasional phone call." Serena smiled, saying,"You both did the right thing, following your heart on what you want to do. Sometimes, it can be hard when your parents want you to follow in your footsteps. Just remain confident and stay strong. If there's something you really want, go for it, don't give up till it's over"!! Melissa smiled and said,"You always seem to know just what to say Serena. How do you come up with the right words"? Serena said,"Well...I didn't always know what to do. I learned a lot of what I know now from an old friend...or at least...an ex-friend," as Serena frowned momentarily. At that monent, our food arrived as we each grabbed our plate and drink. We ate in silence for a bit before Rory nudged Melissa to ask Serena as she said,"So, not wanting to push the issue or anything, but what happened between you and this "ex-friend" of yours"?

Serena looked up from her plate as Melissa said,"I'm only asking because I was curious. But, if you don't want to answer it, it's fine." Serena cleared her throat before saying,"N-No. It's ok. The truth is...talking about it with someone would help and..I've been meaning to tell a friend." Melissa took a bite out of her food before swallowing and saying,"I'm all ears if you're ready to talk about it now." That was when Serena told Melissa on what had happened between her and Ash and how she was still partially angry at him, not speaking to him in a month. Melissa could understand how Serena felt as she placed a hand out, with Serena accepting it, while saying,"You don't need to fret so much about it. There are many more Horseas in the sea, some that might be even more perfect than that Ash fellow. The hurt will soon go away and you'll be ready to love someone again." Hearing those words made Serena feel a lot better, saying,"Thank you Melissa. You're probably right. I could probably name a few guys who'd want to date me once I feel ready." Melissa blushed before saying,"I could name a few as well." Hearing her say that, Serena blushed while thinking: Melissa is a strange girl, but in a fun way. She's able to make my heart skip a beat and my mind lull into sweet thoughts and...holy Heatmors!!! Am I actually...in love with her?! Relax Serena, you can't exactly know...yet. Just give it more time.

After they finished eating and paid the bill together, they decided to walk around, look at the stores and sights of Shalour City. As they strolled along the sidewalk, Rory found a way to get the two to hold each other's hands, surprising them both at first. Melissa pulled away while blushing, stammering,"I-I-I'm so sorry. I-I guess it must happened and I-I didn't notice"!! Serena blushed and stammered,"No-no, it's fine. I-I guess I must've grabbed it when I didn't expect it, though it did felt kind of nice. I...actually liked it." Melissa calmed down when she heard that, saying,"Y-you did? Well, I'll be honest, I kind of liked it too. If you want," before reaching her hand out as Serena smiled while keeping a hot red blush, saying,"Why not? I mean, it was really nice anyway and I did want that feeling to last a little longer," before reaching out and grabbing her hand. Together, they walked hand in hand, keeping it hidden so no one would see. Both girls turned their heads away from each other, still blushing from earlier as Rory watched and smiled in amusement.

He gave Melissa a look to say,"Enjoying yourself master" as she whispered very quietly to it,"It's nothing like that at all!! So, don't start get any idea about this," leaving her partner to smirk, shrug and growl an "ok." Meanwhile, Serena was feeling really flustered as her cheeks resembled Tomato berries. She thought to herself: Why am I blushing? I'm just holding hands with her and I'm blushing like I have a crush on her. This is so confusing. I need answers and fast before I get all blushed out! Soon, they made it to a bench and gazed out at the ocean and the Tower of Mastery. The view was incredible as Serena says,"Getting to view it from here is incredible. The sunlight reflecting on the ocean makes it sparkle like diamonds." Melissa muttered quietly,"So do your eyes," as Serena her head and asked,"Did you say something"? Melissa froze before saying,"I said...it's a feast for the eyes," leaving Rory to groan and sweat drop. Serena then grew serious for a minute, saying,"Melissa, I'm going to ask you something and I need you to give me an honest answer. Ok," as Melissa looked at her, saying,"Sure. What are friends for," as she anticipated the question. Serena then took a deep breath and asked,"Melissa...do you...like me"?

The Alola native froze at the question before saying,"Like you? Yes! I like you as a friend and as a huge fan of your performances because you're my idol and-," before Serena stopped her, saying,"I didn't mean like that. I meant...do you "like" like me"? Melissa gave a look of confusion as she said,"I don't follow what you mean-," before realizing it and becoming red in embarrassment. She then tried to get her thoughts together and tried to piece her words so she could make a clear statement. With shaky confidence, she looked Serena directly in the eye and said,"If I'm going to be honest...Serena...I...I...," before looking up and saying,"Oh no." Serena looked behind her, asking,"What's wrong," as Melissa says while getting up,"It's my parents!! They're here in Kalos"!! She caught sight of them as Melissa says,"I got to get out of here!! If they see me, they're going to force me back into Alola!! I can't go back with them and their horrendous obsession with beauty!! Serena, you got to help me!!! Please"!! Seeing the pleading look in her eyes, Serena got up, saying,"Don't worry. I'll make sure they don't lay a finger on you." Melissa was eternally grateful as she hugged Serena, saying,"Thank you so much!!! I owe you one for this." She then looked at Rory, saying,"Rory, we'll make sure my parents don't separate us. Lend a paw alright," as it nodded and growled in agreement.

They started to walk away, hoping to get out unnoticed until Melissa's father caught sight of her, saying,"There's the wretched brat"!! He grabbed a pokeball and said,"Espeon, use psychic," as he let out his psychic pokemon for battle. Serena was fast to respond, saying,"Pangoro, block the psychic and use dark pulse," as her dark / fighting type repelled the move and sent Espeon flying with dark pulse. Melissa's father returned Espeon to its pokeball while the mother shouted,"We're bringing her home no matter what!! Ninetails, use extreme speed," as the Alola form ice / fairy fox appeared for battle. Melissa says,"We'll defend ourselves and our lives. Rory, stop Ninetails with accelerock," as Rory used the move, sending Ninetails flying as well. Melissa's mother returned her pokemon as Serena watched Melissa and Rory working together. She smiled, thinking: Wow, she's so brave and the way she works with her pokemon, it's...really sweet to watch. Aah! Focus on the battle Serena! Don't let your emotions and thoughts stop you. Melissa had the same thought as well as she says,"Have Pangoro launch a move by their feet. Rory will make a smokescreen with sand attack so they don't follow us." Serena understood as she had Pangoro use focus blast on the ground, dropping the beauty couple as Melissa had Rory use sand attack and created a sandy smokescreen, blocking their view of them.

Serena returned Pangoro as they took this opportunity to run away from them. They ran out of Shalour City and into the forest, deep in the shrubbery. Once the smoke cleared, the couple could see that they were gone. The father said,"Fiddling files!! She got away"! The mother said,"Don't just stand here honey! We have to get her back! Let's go," as the couple went to continue their search for Melissa. Meanwhile, the girls and Rory were hidden deep in the forest, catching their breath after running for so long. Melissa looked around, saying,"I think we lost them. We should be safe for now." Serena looked up at her, saying,"I hope so. They seemed really relentless." Melissa put her stuff down, saying,"We'll have to camp here tonight, just to be sure that they don't find us out here. Rory, you're on guard duty. Understand," as it saluted and growled its thanks. Melissa started to get a tent out, saying,"I bought this thing when I arrived in Lumious. It's big enough for two so you and I can sleep in here together." Serena smiled, saying,"You're well-prepared." She nodded, saying,"All I did was made sure I had enough for when I started traveling." Serena put her bag down, saying,"Well, after my first year of traveling, I learned the exact same tactic. So, we are both set for a night of camping." Soon, the tent was set as the sun was beginning to lower in the sky. Serena made a campfire as Rory lit it up with fire punch to save time.

Melissa got three sticks and pulled out 6 hotdogs and hotdog buns and a badge of marshmallows, saying,"How does hotdogs and roasted marshmallows sound tonight"? Lycanroc yipped in excitement as Serena smiled in agreement. We all put our hotdogs on the stick and began to cook them on the open fire. Serena watched Rory do so as well as she says,"I'm surprised Rory likes hotdogs as well." Melissa says,"Rory usually eats his pokemon food, but every now and then, I let him have a little treat," with Rory nodding and smiling in agreement. Soon enough, the hotdogs were cooked as we placed them on our buns and began to eat them. Melissa mentioned,"Regular hotdogs are good, but the ones cooked on an open fire is really good. I think it's the texture or the flavor once cooked." Afterwards, they roasted marshmallows as Melissa added,"The key to a perfect roasted marshmallow is cooking it not in the flame, but around it. Keep spinning the stick like a rotisserie so it gets gooey on all angles. Then, once it's golden brown, pull it out and blow on it before eating." Serena did as so, enjoying the taste. Rory forgot to blow on it, so when he ate his marshmallow, he fanned his jaw from the heat after swallowing. They both shared a heartfelt laugh as Melissa said to Rory,"That's why you blow on it before you eat it." Rory sweat dropped in embarrassment as it growled an I'm sorry.

Serena laughed while saying,"Rory is so funny." Melissa smiled while petting it, saying,"He has the tendency to dive into things head first. But, it's what makes Rory..well...Rory." Rory smiled and puffed its chest in pride. Suddenly, it's ears perked up as it went near a bush and began to growl menacingly. Melissa got up, saying,"What's up Rory? Is something there"? Out of the bushes crawled what looked like an injured Espeon, who squealed in pain and fear. Serena, seeing this, says,"It's an Espeon and it looks hurt"!! Before she could get up, Melissa stopped her, saying,"Hold up. I will see if it's really injured." She went up to the Espeon and took a closer look, examining it like a scientist. She then got up, saying,"I knew it!! Rory, send it away with stone edge," as Rory used the move, sending the Espeon flying. Melissa then says,"Of course father sent it, making it act like it got hurt so it could snitch on us. He was always a drama queen." Serena was surprised, saying,"How did you know it was faking it"? Melissa says,"If it was really hurt, it would've had a scratch or an ACTUAL skid mark from hitting the ground." Rory crossed his arms, nodding in agreement.

Melissa then sat back down, saying,"Luckily, we got it out of here before it saw us or where we exactly were." Serena then decided to start up the conversation up again, asking,"So, what were you going to say earlier, about if you "like" liked me or not"? Melissa blushed mad red and swallowed a huge lump in her throat before saying,"W-well...uh...I was going to say...I...," before getting interrupted by Rory, who brought out Melissa's guitar for her, giving Melissa a great idea, telling Rory,"You're a genius bud." As she pulled out her guitar, she said,"I can't really "say" the truth, but I can sing to you how I feel Serena. Just listen closely and...I hope you enjoy." Melissa began to strum a sweet melody on her guitar as Rory began to hit a log like if it was a bongo drum. She looked up at Serena, saying,"You told me earlier about what you see when you look at me. Now, it's my turn to tell you what I see when I look at you, whether on screen, in the paper, or right now, in real life."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Melissa: Oh, her eyes her eyes, make the stars look like they're not shinin'. Her hair, her hair falls perfectly without her trying. She's so beautiful and I tell her everyday. Yeah, I know, I know when I compliment her, she won't believe me. And it's so, it's so sad to think that she don't see what I see. But every time she asks me,"Do I look ok"? I say...

When I see your face, there's not a thing that I would change 'cause you're amazing just the way you are. And when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while. 'Cause girl, you're amazing just the way you are. Yeah.

As Melissa sang and played her guitar, Serena couldn't help but remain in awe. Melissa's singing voice was like an angel and this angel was admitting to her straight up that she loved her. A blush overcame her as she smiled and kept on listening. Melissa was beginning to feel a little more confident as she took the song into deeper waters.

Her lips, her lips, I could kiss her all day if she'd let me. Her laugh, her laugh, so cute and fills me with so much glee. She's so beautiful and I tell her everyday. Oh you know, you know, you know I'd never ask you to change. If perfect's what you're searching for, then just stay the same. So, don't even bother asking if you look ok, you know I'll say...

Melissa finished with a small guitar flourish as she smiled, saying,"So you see, that's how I feel about you. I don't just "like" like you...I love you." Her expression then became lonesome when she said,"Though I can tell you probably don't feel the same way about me. If that's true, then I understand 'cause I know you've been used to loving guys. I completely understand if you just want us to remain friends." Serena shook out of her daze before sitting next to Melissa, saying,"Melissa, you were the first person I've been able to feel this close to in a long time since things ended between me and Ash. Today, I discovered a new feeling that even I didn't know that I had. But...," which made Melissa grow nervous and ask,"But what Serena"? Serena looked down, saying,"I'm still trying to convey exactly how I feel about this. I like you Melissa, but I'm having troubles with "like" liking you Melissa. I want to...but...I'm scared, I'm confused, I'm excited and nervous at the same time, I'm still coping with all of these emotions that I'm feeling." Melissa put a comforting hand on her, saying,"You're not in this alone. I'm still new to these feeling as well. I never thought I'd see myself with a girl, but if I was to be honest with myself, I see myself with you. It might help if you explain to me how you are feeling about this exactly."

Serena looked up at Melissa and said,"I guess well...I'm scared to love someone again...let alone a girl...because I'm afraid that you'll dump me if you find someone more beautiful than me, just like Ash did. I'm confused because I thought I'd always love guys and then when you showed up, my world and my heart was turned upside down. I'm excited because sometimes, I'd wonder what it be like to be with a girl instead of a boy, but it also makes me nervous because I've never met a girl who liked me this way before. Plus, if we do end up together, what would my friends think? What would my mother say? It's just so frustrating to comprehend! I feel like my brain's going to pop out of my head if I don't make the right choice"!! Small tears began to form in her eyes as Melissa and Rory looked at each other with worry and concern. Melissa then says,"It's hard, I know. I have those same thoughts exactly. It's tough when you realize a truth about yourself that you never thought you'd succumb to. But...remember when you said earlier about how it was great for Rory and I to "follow our hearts" about what we want"? Serena nodded as Melissa then asked,"I know what my heart says about this, but what does your heart have to say"? Serena held her hand close to her chest and thought hard before saying,"I think...no! I know...my heart is telling me...that we should go for it. No matter what anyone says," before smiling at Melissa who smiled back, saying,"As long as you're honest with yourself, it wouldn't matter what others say about it. After all, you taught me that today and now, I can easily say that it's a truth we can both go by."

Serena then had a great idea as she says,"They say actions speak louder than words, so, since it's a little hard for me to talk about it, let me show you how I feel about you Melissa," before moving closer and doing something Melissa did not expect. She planted a kiss on her cheek, making Melissa blush and become shocked while Rory remained jaw dropped. Melissa looked at Serena, who blushed and had a sheepish smile going, a little embarrassed that it all happened so suddenly. Melissa soon recovered and was able to respond, saying,"You...feel the same way"? Serena nodded as Melissa formed happy tears, saying,"Oh...I'm so happy. Oh Serena," before the two hugged each tightly, happy and warm in each other's embrace. Rory joined the group hug, happy that its trainer came to terms with how she felt. Their hug didn't last though because a faint voice interrupted their moment, saying,"I'm not surprised. The brat has feelings towards the ugly freak," making them both look up and see who it was. It was Melissa's parents and their pokemon, ready to attack on cue. Rory growled menacingly as Melissa got up, saying,"Hey!! It's one thing to call me a brat! But it is completely unacceptable to call Serena ugly. She is anything but ugly"!! Her mother says,"Oh please!! She has no sense of style and by the way, no one cuts their hair that short anymore for a reason"!

Melissa stood in front of Serena, saying,"Leave her alone! Her name is Serena. She's beautiful, caring, and kind. She's treated me with more kindness than you both ever did"!! Her father then said,"Don't speak to your mother that way!! And why become a trainer?! It's so...ugly. Especially that "thing" you call Rory"! Rory was ready to knock his block off as Melissa said,"I don't want to be a model or a fashion designer! I want, and will, be a trainer. I will win the Kalos League and be a strong trainer just like my sister. I'm following my heart just like Cynthia did and I'm not going to let you two plan my life out for me." Her mother shouted,"That is quite enough out of you young lady!! You will return home with us, you will release that pokemon or give it to the ugly freak you call your "lover" and then-," until Serena intervened, saying,"That's enough out of both of you! Why can't you support her? Being a trainer is something she loves and something she wants to do. She can make her own choices. If she wants to love me, then I'll be her girlfriend till the end of time!! You have no right to tell her what is acceptable to her and what's not"?!?! Melissa's father had enough of this as he went in to slap Serena until Melissa stopped it by going in front, pushing his hand back with tremendous strength. Melissa glared at her parents, saying,"You will not lay a hand on my girlfriend under my watch"!!

Her father stumbled back, shocked at what just happened as Melissa says,"Leave us alone!! I am not standing for your sinister ways any longer!! Leave now or I'll have to send you back to Alola myself"!! Melissa's parents looked at each other before shouting," Espeon, use dazzling gleam," as both pokemon charged in with their respective moves. Melissa sighed, saying,"I warned you! Rory, block it with stone edge"!! Rory made a wall out of the stone edge, blocking the moves from hitting them. Serena called out Pangoro again as it roared a mighty battle cry. Melissa looked to Serena and says,"You got Espeon. I'll take care of Ninetails." Ninetails launched an ice beam as Espeon mixed in psybeam. Pangoro blocked the combination with hammer arm, protecting its teammate from harm. Rory then used accelerock to get up close to Ninetails and used stone edge again, sending Ninetails crashing hard. Meanwhile, Pangoro used dark pulse, pushing Espeon back as well.

Melissa then looked at Serena and says,"I'll finish this. Just make sure they don't do anything sneaky alright"? Serena nodded as Melissa looked at Rory, who was raring to go. She then says,"It's time to put all of our training to the test bud," revealing a z-ring, with a special z-crystal on it. Her parents looked shocked as her father said,"Where did you get that"?! Melissa smirked, saying,"Cynthia gave the z-ring and set of crystals to me as a present. This Lycanium Z, we found it the night we got away from you. Now, you're going to see all our hard work paid off for this"! Serena watched in anticipation, wondering how this was going to turn out. Melissa activated the z-crystal as she and Rory began to do the motions to launch the move.

In the moment, Melissa says,"The red figure that hides in the shadow of night. Unleash your true nature and demonstrate the power stored in your soul and heart," as Rory howled with might as it began to glow. Melissa then says,"Rain a storm of broken stones. Use Splintered Stormshards," as Rory launched the z-move with all its might, cascading a stone rain on the pokemon and her parents, creating a huge explosion that sent them and their pokemon flying far, far, far away from us. Both girls smiled as Serena says,"That was incredible!! That "Splintered Stormshards" was really strong!! It sent them flying far"!! Melissa smiled, saying,"Thanks. Rory and I have been training hard to perfect that move and it paid off," as Rory smiled and flexed its muscles.

Melissa then looked at Serena and said,"Thank you for everything Serena. For freeing me earlier today, for the makeover, helping me be free from my parents, everything"!! Serena smiled while saying,"You're welcome. I love you Melissa, I'll do anything to protect you, the same way you'd do anything to protect me." Melissa then remembered something as she says,"I believe I still owe you a favor from earlier." Serena smiled while saying,"I do believe you did, though I do not possibly know how you can pay me back-," before getting interrupted by a kiss from Melissa, making her stunned momentarily. Once she recovered, she looked at the Alola native and said,"And sold." Melissa looked up at the starry night sky and says,"Looks like it's getting late. We should get changed and turn in for the night." They returned back to their campsite and both girls took a turn at being in the tent and getting changed. Serena went first as Melissa waited patiently outside with Rory. She put out the fire while saying,"This is the best day of our lives Rory. We got to meet Serena, she's now my girlfriend, and we're going to remain partners together just like Cynthia and Garchomp," as they both fist bumped with one another. Serena then came out in her pj's as Melissa smiled and Rory was shocked. Serena smiled, saying,"This is just my usual nightware. What do you think," as Melissa said with a smile,"You look beautiful Serena as always." Rory smiled and growled its compliments, trying to plant something in her mind.

Melissa could tell what he was thinking, saying,"Shut up Rory and don't get any ideas." Rory decided to playfully taunt her as she playfully glared, saying,"I said shut up Rory"!! He grinned in victory as she groaned, saying,"I get it. Payback for what happened 4 days ago. I guess I deserved it," with Rory nodding in agreement. Serena laughed at the sight of their little scuffle as Melissa went in to get changed and she sat next to Rory. She petted the wolf pokemon as it purred in delight. She said,"Melissa is lucky to have a pokemon like you as a partner. You're both alike in a lot of ways, just meant to be with one another," as it barked a happy cry. Soon, Melissa was set, wearing a lavender nightgown and comfortable pajama pants. She undid the braid Serena did earlier, letting her hair loose before packing the ribbon safely in her bag. She unzipped the tent so Serena could come in as Serena saw and said with a blush,"Guess I'm not the only one with cute pj's," making Melissa blush as well, saying,"Thanks." Rory cuddled up by the edge of the tent as Melissa says,"You're going to be ok outside tonight, guarding the tent," as it nodded and saluted in agreement. Serena and Melissa entered the tent and got into their sleeping bags. They faced each other as Melissa says,"You know, I'm glad to have met you Serena. I'm must be the luckiest person alive to be with you." Serena smiled, saying,"I feel the exact same way Melissa. Sleep tight," as they both fell asleep, happy to be with each other. In the morning, the Fletchlings were chirping a beautiful song as Rory was sound asleep in the early dawn

Inside the tent, the two girls were sound asleep, the first one to awaken was Serena. She quietly sat up and stretched before gazing at the girl beside her, still sound asleep. The first thing she took notice of was the expression Melissa had, looking so peaceful. She then noticed on how her hair looked a bit frizzy from sleeping, but still kept its sheen, despite being spread out. Serena reached her hand out and stroke it, enjoying herself. She was quite fond of how soft it was and enjoyed playing with it as Melissa slept. Melissa seemed to begin waking up as Serena got a clever idea before closing her eyes, pretending to still be asleep. When Melissa opened her eyes and saw Serena still asleep, she smiled knowing very well what she was up to and had nothing against it. Melissa grabbed her glasses before reaching out towards her "human" partner to stroke her hair. The feeling was surreal to Melissa, reminding her of her own soft locks, seeming to enjoy it a lot. Serena then opened her eyes catching sight of what was going on as Melissa smirked, saying,"You're just enjoying this aren't you"? Serena giggled before saying,"Just as much as you did yesterday."

Melissa sat up, saying,"You really like playing with my hair don't you," while pulling out her brush. Serena blushed, responding with,"I will be honest...it is pretty fun...but I do like something that's even better than your hair." Melissa smiled, asking,"Oh? What is it," knowing very well what she was going to say. She offered Serena the brush as the Vaniville Town native responded with,"You. Your own self." She kindly brushed Melissa's hair as the Alola native blushed and smiled in content. Once they both got changed and packed up their things, Melissa woke up Rory so he could help put away the tent. While doing so, Melissa asked,"So, I was thinking that after we put this tent away, we walk back to Shalour City, get breakfast, and then I'll help you train for the showcase. Sound good," as Serena says,"Anything with you is music to my ears." Once the tent was all packed up, Melissa and Rory joined up with Serena as the couple walked hand in hand back to Shalour City, happy that they both found their one true partner. Now. if only Rory could stop the playful teasing about their relationship!

And...scene. Watch out for new updates and material published from me. Till we meet again.