Happy Hanukkah!
I hope you enjoyed the Lorelei series, because take the author's word: it's gonna get better!
Here, we are back in Fuschia City, where Ash's battle with Koga will take place six days from today that is according to the timeline of the chapter. So I thought how about I venture some parts left unexplored. I never wrote Ash training his Pokemon, so I'll be sure to add that up. But that doesn't mean I am going to reveal which Pokemon he has chosen against Koga. I mean that guy is a ninja, and I wouldn't want him to get a wind of Ash's hidden strategies.
Next I'll be writing some more Ash-May fluff as that as attracted a lot of attention from viewers, so it'll be like a second date. A short one. And then skip…
So yeah, I guess this one will just be as long. I have given a deep thought of what reviewer's suggestions and I think, I should overpower Gym leaders from now on. Cause primarily this story is largely based on Pokemon Battles.
So sit back and enjoy! Be sure to let me know what you think, if you'd like! A little smutty but you guys should be okay with that. :) No lemons yet!
The clear skies above Fuschia City welcomed our heroes as they wearily navigated the dimly lit streets of Fuschia City. Though it was a thriving city, they had a certain respect from nature. Fuschia was synonymous with traditional Kanto, boasting the highest concentration of cultural treasures of the region. A must see destination for travelers hoping to get a glimpse of old Kanto. May marveled through the window as the RV entered the city, amazed at how this city had retained its culture making allies with the technological infrastructure as well. It developed the center of high culture, politics and craftsmanship.
Brock made no haste, perusing the guidebook for their week in Fuschia. With Ash indulged in training, there was no such obligation for the rest of the gang not to chill their vacation.
''Don't fill up much on the lunch guys,'' Brock recommended. ''That is if you can't have plenty of Kyo-Kaiseki.''
''Oh yum,'' Ash changed the gears, and said half-jokingly. ''I can't wait for the sun to set!''
''Boy, boy…You can't get enough calories can you?'' Misty squinted.
''What can I say?'' Ash glared at her through the rearview mirror. ''I gotta constantly bulk.''
''Or what? You gonna shrink and deflate like a balloon?'' Misty muttered, and May sweatdropped.
''Actually, I'm kinda with Ash on this one,'' May giddishly stated. ''I too have a habit of chow every two hours.''
''You tell her babe,'' Ash joshed.
''Marry him…'' Misty groaned, slumping back on the bed, covering her face with a magazine.
''Hey May…'' Ash called. ''You thought whatchya wanna do tonight?''
''Actually not yet,'' May approached the driver's seat, wrapping her arms around her boyfriend. She turned to the man sitting parallel. ''Brock, could you lend me your guidebook?''
''Sure May.''
''How come we never awarded with that question?'' came a hoarse voice from behind.
''Oh…'' May blushed, walking back over to the rear of the RV, taking a seat besides Misty. ''Ash and I have decided every Saturday will be our date night.''
''You have reserved a day of the week for a date?'' Misty captioned. ''What you guys can't be spontaneous. Like the genitals want what they want.''
''Oh believe me, I want his genitals so bad! But I don't wanna rush into it. You know, the more time we spend together the more intimate we'll be, I'm sure.'' May whispered. ''Plus jumping into bed quickly can hurt our chances of pragmatic thinking.''
''Wow, I love when you talk dirty,'' Misty teased. ''So what are you guys gonna do tonight?''
''It's just our second date…and knowing what a clueless head he is,…talk.''
''Oohhh…'' Misty yanked the magazine down, beaming sarcastically. ''That's gonna be so hot! Be sure to use protection.''
''yeah…yeah make all the jokes you want,'' May scoffed. ''But I have high hopes from this. I'm finally gonna tell him I'm ready to travel with him after his Elite Four Challenge.''
''That…that is a huge step, and I mean equivalent to moving in together.'' Misty reiterated. ''When Tracey first popped the question, I was like whatchya hell you thinking? Turns out it ain't that ugly.''
''I should only be so lucky…''
''Tell you what,'' Misty scooted over, and propped on her knees to whisper in May's ears. ''Why don't you make the move tonight?''
''What move?'' May blinked. The naughty glint in the gym leader's eyes was nerving, like she had something diabolical planning on. ''
''A little second base won't hurt…'' the mikan haired gym leader winked.
''WHAT?''
''Sshh!''
''What?! Are you kidding me? It's only our second date.''
''Oh come on, trust me, May.'' The redhead assured. ''Be flirty every five minutes. And when he leans in, use your tongue more than your lips. If you do the right thing, he would be wanting to go out more. A little intimacy can bring a lot of closeness.''
''I guess…you're right,'' May admitted. ''But what if Ash wouldn't expect it?''
''Sweetie,'' Misty sighed. ''What I am advising you, Ash's penis is probably doing the same thing with his Mind.''
They came to a stop by the Pokemon Center. It was lunch time, and they were fortunate enough to find a traditional Japanese buffet restaurant right adjacent to the Pokemon Center. While the regular food of Pokemon facility seemed fine, a cuisine blended with ancient Japanese ingredients seemed more preferable for the price. While May, Brock and Misty had already reserved a table, Ash returned a few minutes later after handing over his party to Nurse Joy.
He filled his plate high, almost daring to topple over. Joining his comrades who had seemed to maintain more of a dining etiquette with one or two delicacy, Ash paid no heed to their shameful glares. May thought it was cute and ate as well, but nearly so ravenously as Ash. She was a heavy-eater too, but the amount Ash was wolfing down.
''So guys, what's next huh?'' Brock took a sip of his soup.
''Oh before you guys begin,'' Ash perked his head up, sputtering between bites. ''I just happen to know a spot in the mountains here where I am gonna be training for three days of the next week. So you won't be seeing much of me.''
''And our week gets a lot better.'' Misty quipped, while Ash scorned at her.
''Ok that leaves you out,'' Brock humbly noted and turned to the ladies. ''What do you guys wanna do?''
''I'm gonna hit the Safari Zone!'' Misty pumped. ''I was thinking about adding a few recently discovered species to the Gym Aquarium.''
''I don't remember from much around,'' May set her porcelain cup down. ''But since we are here anyways, I think I would like a detour of the Tea Garden Ceremony.''
''We'll sow you around,'' Misty cheered. ''Plus we'll be occupied with all the festivals. Unlike in Ecruteak, the festivals and events here rage on for a week tops!''
''Ya, and with Brock no longer clamoring to see Geishas, he'll be with you all the time,'' Ash joked, while the breeder nudged him.
''We should also pay Aya a visit no, Brock?'' Misty suggested.
''Yeah,'' the doctor nodded in agreement. ''Been long since that League Annual Meeting we saw her last.''
''Who's Aya?'' May asked inquisitively.
''She's the Gym Leader here,'' Ash detailed. ''After her brother Koga was promoted to Elite Four Status, she took over the Gym. He's got a daughter a little younger than us, Janine. Except, the li'l news special was saying Koga hasn't approved her taking over the gym quite yet, so there's someone leading in her stead until she's ready. Word is on the street that she's gonna be performing at the festival.''
''Do you think she'll be there in Koga's corner?'' Misty asked.
''Of course, I would like to see their faces when I beat him.''
''Ash, I few months ago I saw Aya take a gauntlet and she defeated ten highly skilled trainers from Johto without a single loss,'' Misty stressed. ''If just the plant can do that, imagine what the tree would do.''
''And with not many trainers get past Lorelei, Koga hasn't been in many League battles lately, but that doesn't mean he's gone rusty,'' Brock added.
''Guys, relax,'' Ash composedly spread his hands. ''I'm nervous too. I know this Koga ain't like te one I beat before. But if he has his bag of tricks, then I do too…''
Evening had finally arrived in Fuschia and every native was waiting for the moment. Ornate floats took to the streets of the city, decorated with carved wood, embroidered tapestries with depictions of beasts and mythical Pokemon, and cascades of paper lanterns towing through the town. Taiko drum and flute music accompanied their procession around town, and when they reached their final destination for the evening, it ignited a two-and-a-half hour fireworks display. Revelers warmed their hands against helpings of delicious fried food and sweet wine, sold by the many merchant's stalls that pop up around the festival. Each minute a new performer adorned the stage of the Kabuki show.
With Misty and Brock away at some corner, Ash and May were spared the privacy they needed. The Gym Leader and the doctor were the first to leave and disperse in the crowd somewhere, probably shopping up. Ash waited outside his RV which was parked away from all the hustle, into the threshold of the woods. He impatiently lingered in front of the caravan, waiting for May to emerge.
With an eye for style, his black yukata with red lining and golden obi was a chic addiction to any style. The kimono dress featured illustration of an amazing dragon floating on clouds. He heard the click of the door, and head whipped instantly.
A wooden sandal was the first thing he saw that stepped out, bringing the wearer out next. Ash couldn't take his eyes off her. She wore a light pink kimono that with a hemp leaf pattern, the lining a paler pink, with a red obi and a thin piece of orange thread looped and knotted around her waist, with another band of green above it. Her was offset with suitable accessories. Over this, she sported a long, white haori that reaches past her knees, as well as pink zori sandals and white socks, wrapped with thick pieces of black material. She wore a tulip just above her ear, and a lace choker with bracelet as well. Her head was neatly tied into a bun, with a bangs neatly swept to the left. Her lipstick was most alluring among her glowing cheeks.
''Wow…'' He simply stared slack-jawed. Ash struck by the ice of love, couldn't be thawed out. ''You look beautiful…'' he voiced his opinion loudly.
May had had that shy look young women often wear, but it was never morose. Always behind those slightly pursed lips was a smile just waiting to be tempted out. She turned her head to the side to avert her gaze, but the sudden rosiness of her cheeks gave her away. ''You look arresting too…''
He extended a hand towards her, and she gladly took his beaming at him.
''Shall we?''
There is no better way to explore some of Fuschia's most historic and picturesque neighborhoods than a ride on an authentic Japanese rickshaw. Ash and May cuddled as a romantic custom, visiting the Bamboo Grove and various shrines. May was a little displeased as Ash directed his attention towards some of the Geishas, although she didn't want to express it.
There was no tour that didn't complete Fuschia without stopping at the famous Fujimoto Pavilion - most famous temple of the city. With the picturesque surroundings of the lake and forest, May and Ash had the best time posing as couples, with Rotom Dex snapping their pictures. There was nothing more romantic than sitting by a sublime temple garden munching on their grilled squid, and no one else was around.
Just like many other couples that flocked for romantic walks, Ash and May joined them as well, taking a stroll in one of the calmest haven within the city. They engaged in the mandatory polite conversation with other couples who too were visiting Kanto for the festival. They took a Sake brewery tour, indulging themselves in some Sake tasting. With Sake a part of the date – this date couldn't be beat.
Now they were creeping closer to the city square. They took a step back in time visiting the shopping district of Fuschia, that dated back to the Imperial Era. This was certainly not to be missed. Kagai culture was on full display here in the form of maiko and geiko. While many couples will visit this part of Fuschia when they visit the city, it's difficult to grasp the area's importance today, as well as its historical importance, without help from a knowledgeable guide. May made a mental note to visit this place again and buy some souvenirs for back home. Some things here she wouldn't find in Mossdeep City.
Lastly they arrived closer to the city square, where grand celebrations were taking place. All was well with the world, as the pair stared at happy faces, laughing children and listened to melodious music.
''Man, this place is packed!''
May giggled at Ash's stressed outburst, the way his eyes widened reminded them of children witnessing a parade. She followed him towards a small stand that showed a whole bunch of stuffed Pokemon and a stack of cups on a pedestal, with two rubber balls on the side. Both of them had been walking around, exchanging conversation and staring at the various stands, shops and items, intrigued, wondering how such things like cotton- candy and toffee-apples existed. Sure, Ash had eaten a toffee-apple once during his journeys and May had seen cotton-candy in a sweet shop while visiting a family friend in Sinnoh, but neither of them had actually tried to explore the mystery of apples on a stick and fluffy floss in a bag; the idea was completely insane!
"Ha ha!" they heard the stall owner shout, after they stood for a good five minutes staring at his odd challenge.
"Uh, hey there. What game is this supposed to be, exactly?" Ash asked, scratching the back of his head. "The stall name says 'Cup-Smasher' ." He looked over to the stall owner and noted his over-excited expression with a raised eyebrow.
"Glad you asked," the stall owner answered. "just as the name suggests, is what you have to do."
"Smash cups?"
"That's right! With the exception that you'll only have two chances to knock down all the cups on the stand here." The stall owner tossed Ash two rubber balls. "Use these to knock 'em down and, if you get all the cups down, you get a prize of your choice."
It was a fairly simple game to play, in his opinion. Throw two balls to knock over ten cups stacked in a pyramid shape; how difficult was that?
"Alright then, May, watch me win this thing!" he gloated, tossing one of the balls up and down in his hand, before giving it a strong throw, aimed at the stack and knocking over the top five over with ease and letting out a shout of victory, making his date giggle at his foolish antics.
"Nice one dude, now just knock over the last five and the prize is all yours." The stall owner said clapping his hands.
Ash nodded at him and looked toward the remaining cups, frowning at them before giving the cups a sadistic grin. With a laugh, he threw the last ball at the cups and smiled as five more cups joined the pile on the floor.
"Excellent throwing, man!" The stall owner shouted and gave Ash a wide smile before pointing to the heap of stuffed Pokemon next to him, "Which one would you like?"
Ash looked at the toys on the shelf next to the stall owner. There was an array of different colored starter Pokemon, He browsed through on the side but eventually pointed to a orange chicken sticking out of the bundle of Charmender and answered,
"I'll have that one…The Torchic!''
"Hmm? Oh! I forgot I still had it," the stall owner pulled a small chicken out of the bundle and tossed it to Ash, "my niece made it for me just before I left to come here for the carnival."
Ash caught the toy swiftly and gave it a quick once-over look, "She sure can make stuff, though; give my respects to her, will 'ya?"
''Amazing aim, babe,'' May smiled, pecking his cheek, as she accepted the doll Ash won for her. Believe it or not, Torchic was a romantic gesture for her. This was just too good to be true! She flushed red instantly as soon as his hands reached her. She didn't know what to do, nevermind what to say at that moment. She felt like grabbing his head and smashing his lips against hers; she wanted to scream and laugh in joy; heck, she wanted to jump at him and wrap her arms tightly around him and confess her love for him again.
Oh my Arceus, she looks so adorable! Kiss her now, you idiot. Do something already!
"So, we haven't really explored this carnival completely and I know you're also wanting to know how that cotton-candy stuff tastes so…. You want to go and… explore?"
"Uh…" May was at a loss for words. She had just spent almost a lifetime in her opinion staring into those deep auburn pools of his and thinking she saw a hint of want in his eyes, unless she was mistaken.
"Why don't you let him take the lead? It's not like he's gonna leave you there to your own devices if he's the one that asked you out in the first place. Who knows? It might actually end up being better than you think it will be…"
May was lost; she didn't know what to do or what to expect from the oblivious trainer that was Ash Ketchum. All she could do was follow him and keep herself from fainting every time he held her hand. Sooner or later he would make a move… because that what guys did when they asked a girl out on a date, right?
"A-Alright," she said with a smile, "Let's go get some c-cotton-candy."
Hand in hand, the scurried more, burying themselves into the crowd even more. The second date was definitely better than the previous one they had. Not one booth didn't they want to be left unexplored. The thin washi paper for a damn rascal when they tried futile attempts and scooping up goldfish. Super balls were didn't bring any luck to them either. So scooping up stuff from water didn't win them any accolades for the evening. Then they arrived to booths like shateki (gun-shooting) and wanage (ring toss), and that made up for their failures at the sukui.
Why not maximize your Japanese festival experience with amazingly delicious food stalls? Ash and May devoured everything they could grab their hands at.
From the time they arrived at the Festival, Ash had been ecstatic to continue this date off on a good note and a comfortable pace. They had walked around the entire carnival playing a different variety of games from contests to casual time-wasting games and just for a little fun, they'd tried and tasted every single dish, snack and sweet there was in the carnival that they didn't know and had a great time doing so if the cotton-candy in Ash's hair from their 'candy fight' was any indication.
He had become extremely infatuated with his girlfriend, and during their time tried to learn everything he could about May. Sure he'd known her from childhood and during and a few days after their reconcilement, both of them had been seeing each other regularly so he'd gained a sense of a proper friendship with her and they treated each other like old friends but Ash always wanted to know more.
It wasn't to say that it was just her personality that made him love her. On the contrary, May was without a doubt gorgeous! She also had a killer figure, although she tried to hide it by wearing baggy clothing, Ash could see through all of it. Naturally growing up, the Kalos atmosphere had rubbed off a small amount of perverted nature into Ash. Being married once, he was having a little discontent of trying not to imagine May in clothing that was a little provocative (very provocative) and he had to mentally beat himself up from thinking of perverted situations and sometimes he had the odd wet-dream. He peered at her when she wasn't looking at him, the same way he glared at Serena.
Just then, May noticed something on her sandals and began to pick them off while still bending over…
Aw, come on! Why does my luck have to run out now? That's just grea-
Hey! Put that stupid tongue back in you're mouth and stop drooling! Wait a minute, are you thinking of going over there and….
Oh, you Dog! Stop! Stop! STOP IT RIGHT NOW!
Ash continued to stare at May's bottom.
"T-There was a leaf in my s-andal." May said standing upright again and turning to Ash.
"Uh, Wha?" he replied dreamily to her, blinking slowly and shaking his head to rid himself of his pervy moment.
May giggled at him, "W-Were you d-d-daydreaming Ash?"
"W-Well… you could say something like that," he blurted quickly and flushing red again, not keeping eye contact with her, "If only you knew…"
She frowned at him in confusion before tilting her head to the side and looking up at the sky.
Fireworks cut through the black like they're super-imposed on the night, like the stars behind are only a backdrop brought in for the occasion. Every streak bares a curve of sorts, brilliant lines with a living feel, organic in the way they vibrancy of the Yomatsuri, the energy of the dancing dragons, the fireworks that make an artistic canvas of the night sky, is looked forward to by all.
Ash glanced at May gazing up at the sky. Again, he found it hard not to memorized her jaw-line and examine the texture of her pale and creamy skin. It was like porcelain but looked soft and warm at the same time and her hair was like a midnight velvet wave of silkiness, it curled and straightened at odd places but looked like it was perfect and part of the masterpiece that was her face and how wonderfully it contrasted with those cerulean-tinted eyes of hers, like light-sapphire orbs of light that gazed at him with innocence and love.
I wonder how it would feel to run my hands through her hair and feel her skin against mine…
"What w-was that?" May asked, now broken out of her trance-like state.
"Hmm?"
"You said s-something along t-the lines of: 'I wonder how it would feel.'"
"O-Oh!" he hesitated a bit unnerved, did she just read his thoughts half-way or did he mutter it out unintentionally? In actual fact, he was scared to find the answer to that question.
"I was just thinking for a moment," Ash's heartbeat sped up faster, "I was wondering if should we dance?''
''Well, what are we waiting for, let's go then!''
Ash mentally sighed in relief, it would have been utterly embarrassing if May had put two-and-two together.
They joined in the Bon Odori procession that attracted a diverse mix of locals and tourist in the fun., following the steps of the yukata-clad dancers along the way.
They conversed whilst dancing.
"Of course you would," Ash smiled back and winked at her and smiled even wider when she blushed at him, "Being a regular person is still awesome!" He shouted wrapping his arms around her that earned him a squeak before he spun her around. His smile widening when she only continued to giggle and laugh at his antics. They both stared into each other's eyes as he continued to spin her around and immediately, the two if them fell even deeper in love with each other.
She's so beautiful…
He's so wonderfully handsome…
Ash set May down and held her hands in his, onyx orbs still gazing into azure pools, and slowly but surely, their heads' inched forwards to meet each others lips. Her breath was quickening and he was flushing red again as their foreheads' touched and he breathed in her scent of cinnamon and lavender. She smelt amazing to him and her hands were so small and soft in his large and rough ones.
But we could make this work, I'm positive! I'll make her confident; she makes me prim and proper whenever we're together anyways. This can work, plus does it help I'm a stuttering mess when she's more unexpected than me?
Their noses touched and she gasped softly, she didn't believe it, they were going to kiss!
Yes Finally! Finally, get closer Ash! I want this more than anything!
She could now feel his warm breath on hers, it was indescribable and it made her toes curl a little. Their lips were nearly there…
S-So what if I love him and I want t-to k-k-kiss him this badly, but w-what if h-he's being overcome by the heat of the moment?
Their lips were just centimeters apart when Misty shouted to them.
"Hey guys, nice to seeing you- OH!"
They groaned, pulling apart, and giving the stare at the redhead that was less then pleasant.
"Damn you Misty!"
Misty watched a pair of flabbergasted adults gasp and flush red, one hue deeper than the other before she sighed and facepalmed herself while sweat-dropping.
"You two are just…lovely!" she complimented.
"H-Hey- "
"Leave us alone-Misty!"
''Whatever! Just don't get hanky-panky in the RV tonight. You guys can rent a room, you know!''
''Mist!''
''Alright, I'm going!'' she whined, dispersing into the crowd.
May huffed, embracing herself into Ash. ''I'm so sorry for that.''
''Ain't you fault May…'' he assured. ''I just know what I have in store for her…''
To Ash's complete sad utter embarrassment, is stomach gave a loud growl that was quite audible to his woman.
"You know dinner sounds pretty good right about now and a proper date doesn't actually start until we enter a restaurant..."
"I-I…I guess…"
"What do 'ya say?" he raised and eyebrow at her and smiled, which promptly made her die in happiness in her mind. ''You wanna eat as well, or there's something more you wanna explore?''
"Dinner sounds pretty needed right now," she answered him with pink dusting her cheeks, "All that dancing has made me hungry.''
''Oh gosh…I really love you…''
Ash and May walked into the restaurant with wide eyes and to say that they were promptly flabbergasted, would be the right choice of words. The floors were polished and gleaming with a warm hue of mahogany, and May couldn't detect a scratch anywhere on it; the building itself was enormous and looked like it was carved out of a piece of clay if the beautifully designed walls and breathless décor was any indication. The tables were ordinarily designed like common rectangular and squared tops with the exception of the spiraling oak design of the legs with small topaz, emerald and onyx stones embedded into the sides of the tables. Ash gazed at the ceiling with an amazed expression, the chandeliers hung like twisted kunai: bent, burnt, crystallized and hung onto breathtakingly gorgeous staffs and swords with hot glass designs fastened to the high ceiling with light bulbs at their ends. It looked like it came out of a fantasy novel. Some would say that weaponry as décor wouldn't mix but if they had seen what Ash was looking at right now, they would have thought it was stolen from an art exhibition.
"Wow…"
They approached a meiko at the reception who greeted their welcome with a respectful bow.
''Hi, we have reservations under the name: Ash Ketchum.''
She nodded and perused the name inside the desktop. With a guide of her hand, they accompanied her inside a private room. Quiet and serene, and with an open view to the garden, they certainly had kept the green on the best room available. They sat themselves on the cushions, as the waitress arrived, serving the beverages in their cups. This place was extraordinarily conceived and its waiters' were even more of a mystery, Ash thought before turning to May and smiling at her, azure orb's roaming around the vast restaurants like a lost puppy.
Who said Ash didn't know how to read a woman? The date culminating with a lavish ten course dinner in a private room in the most historic and famous restaurant in Fuschia. Experience several aspects of Japanese culture all in one night!
Once again, they were left alone in the chamber.
''You believe this place? Still tough after two decades.'' Ash informed.
''Yes, quite amazing here.'' May answered.
They sat in silence for a few moments to take in the unexplainable feel of the place and to just steady themselves from the sudden excitement bubbling up in their chests. Who would have thought of a place like this unless they were crazy and too imaginative?
"So, uh… how has today been for you?" Ash asked a bit nervously. To be honest, he didn't know how to talk to May after that interrupted kiss that had taken place not so long ago.
"Well, I enjoyed it very much." May replied with a squeak. ''If you were a bit romantic in the old days, I would have a less time disbelieving a lot of stuff here. Seriously, what spell did Serena cast on you?''
They chuckled.
''You showed me a really good time today Ash.'' He tilted her head, in a tease. ''Aww, now I am sad I won't see you for some time.''
''I am glad I chose this over training,'' Ash joked, once again making her giggled. "I've never been so happy in a long time. You are fun to be around.'' he finished taking her hand in his over the table and she flushed red.
''Aww…so you'll keep me?'' she quipped, laughing.
''Yeah, I think I will.'' He countered.
Silence passed.
''You don't know how much you mean to me, Ash.'' She stopped herself quickly before she said anything else that wasn't meant to be said. She couldn't believe it; she'd just told him what he meant to her and without stuttering! She didn't know whether to jump in triumph or berate herself for the accidental leak in information.
Ash nearly shouted in happiness at her confession. He was bursting like a balloon that was fed too much helium and his mind was going numb. ''We keep doing this often, and I'll get a hang of it.''
He was, and it was broadening by the second into one of the most beautiful smiles she had ever seen from him, he was blushing slightly but it was completely overshadowed by the smile he was showing that looked as if he was making the dimly-lit room shine with the warmth and happiness in that smile of his and May had to blush, the smile was directed to her anyways…
''So, wanna play a dating game?''
''Oh it doesn't involve legos, does it?'' May skeptically scrunch her nose.
''No, it's pretty cool actually. I have an app on my phone here. It just pops a question we both have to answer, and it pretty much helps actually. Saves the awkward silence.''
''Alright, fire it up.'' May clapped.
The Dating app took over the surface of Ash's phone, decorated with all fantasy and icons of hearts. Cliché!
The first question popped up through the speaker:
ARE YOU MORE OF AN INDOORS OR OUTDOORS PERSON?
''Outdoors!'' both answered in unison. A tune chimed in the phone and glitters sparkled on the screen.
''What's that?'' May inquisitively leaned on the phone.
''It's the Love-o-meter. It increases when mutually answered.''
''Oh that's cool.'' She marveled. ''Okay, next one.''
'WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?''
''Shopping,'' May chimed.
''Training'' Ash confessed, earning a questioning look from his girlfriend.
''Hey, we gotta be honest on this one.'' He defended, while she rolled her eyes.
WHAT'S ONE THING YOU DID AS A KID THAT YOU MISS MOST TODAY?
''Umm, I gotta say,'' May pondered for a second. ''Horse Rides on Dad's back.''
''I would say… Pokemon Summer Camp!''
''Really?'' May cocked a brow. ''You don't miss you childhood days spent with your Mom Something like she sang you a lullaby or something?''
''Why would I miss that?'' Ash reasoned. ''She still sings me…''
''Oh god,'' May narrowed her eyes. ''Next..''
WHAT ARE SOME RECENT MOVIES THAT YOU ENJOYED AND WOULD LIKE TO WATCH IT AGAIN?
''Enemies of the Vacuum!''
Sweetheart Of The Solstice!
It was evident who had answered what.
WHAT ARE YOU KIND OF OBSESSED WITH THESE DAYS?
''Oh that's easy…'' Ash beamed looking up at May. She blushed furious red, perhaps already predicting his answer had something to do with her.
''…My new water bottle!'' he finished. Suddenly the room felt quite icy, and he felt a sweat tripping down. Opposite to him, his date gave him quite the cold, unforgiving stare.
''What? It keeps the water at the temperature I like…Now, you go.''
''I'm obsessed with Kanto Region, that I would love to visit every year.'' She answered with a decent sense.
''Okay, this one's gonna be a toughie…''
WHAT'S THE MOST EMBARRASSING THING THAT'S EVER HAPPENED TO YOU?
''I'll start with this one…'' Ash laughed. What he was about to say was a lot funnier in his head. ''This one seriously tops the most embarrassing stuff I done. Years ago, me and my mates were celebrating my graduation in a pub. I had like six growlers of beers, and then this one jackass friend made me drink this strong vodka shots! I had two and suddenly everything around me was revolving. I dashed to the bathroom, but little did I know that a particular door there didn't have a latch on. Hastily I banged the door open and threw up. Sadly, it was too late for me to notice a dude already sitting on the commode…''
''Oh my God!'' she clasped her face behind her hands.
''Oh it gets worse…he was the Mayor's son.''
''Oh shit!''
''Yea…''
''Okay, my turn…in Headquarters, there was a woman, Anne Hallisey who had just lost her husband, and very coincidently, another girl Annie Hallisey who had just been promoted. And being the sensitive girl I am, I wrote a condolences card and a Congratulations card. I was so in a rush, I switched their envelopes and…''
''No!'' Ash horridly refuted.
''Long story short, when the widow opened her card, it read: "Congratulations! I knew you could kill it! You are a huge inspiration for all of us! I'm sure you'll repeat it again!''
Ash laughed to his heart's content. ''I really wanna know what happened with the one who got the condolences card, but I'm afraid I might burst a nerve.''
''…and that ends with an inquiry in the office.''
''Oh…I ain't forgetting this May. The best thing I heard whole evening.'' Ash chuckled in deep breaths.
''Let's move on…''
''Okay…''
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM JOB?
''Still…Pokemon Master!''
''Top Coordinator!''
WHAT WOULD YOUR PERFECT VACATION LOOK LIKE?
Ash mused. ''With friends and family in Alola…''
''Skiing in the mountains of Sinnoh.''
The points increased another inch.
''Oh here it comes,'' Ash groaned. ''The App slides a whopper amongst the mix. Be Ready!''
ONE THING YOUR PARTNER CAN NEVER GUESS ABOUT YOU?
''Okay, this is a brain teaser,'' May huffed, slumping her shoulders. ''You have some quirky likes and dislikes. You are intelligent and well educated. You have a stylish dressing sense, and maintain the decorum of table manners. You know, you're hard to read Ash Ketchum.''
''Give it a try, come on.''
''You mimic people?''
''No…''
''You're scared of ghosts…''
''We all are, but wrong.''
'Italian food makes you gassy?''
''No…''
''I can't go on…''
''Alright, I'll let the cat outta the bag,'' Ash sighed. ''you're the first one I'm telling you. Now, don't feel low after this, okay?''
''I'll brace up. Try me.'' May challenged.
''Okay…I'm a sex addict.''
May was lost in trance, she broke the chopsticks in her hand. ''uh…ah…What?''
''I'm a sex addict.'' Ash admitted. ''Can't go without it for long. That also counts for Mexican Food, Pokemon Battles and sex.''
''don't you usually end these with 'Gotchya!' or like 'Zing!?'' May moaned.
''I'm just putting it out there. When I was married, I needed sex all the time. Three times a week.''
''And Serena just let you?''
''She needed it four times a week…''
''WHAT?!''
''Wow, I just remembered why I don't use this app often.'' Ash logged out of the application and buried it in the compartment of his kimono. ''I shouldn't have told you that.''
''Ash,'' May chided, taking his hand in his. ''I'm your girlfriend. I am supposed to know. I wouldn't want to find this out after we get married. I'm okay to live with that fact. I am a bit moved, I couldn't get to be your first, but it's fine with me. What matters is we have each other.''
''But I am infatuated by you. Do you know how hard it is, not to get out of my pants and get in yours? I am wearing two underwear to hold off my erection.''
''Getting creepy, Ketchum.''
''Sorry, babe.''
''Look, this is something we are gonna have eventually, and I am enjoying discussing this with you now, rather than later. Sex will be a huge part of our relationship, and I want to be ready for it. What do you know, you'll turn me into a sex addict too.''
''Hfff..'' Ash snorted. ''I'm pretty well endowed.''
''Yeah, and now that I have the image of your penis in my brain... let's enjoy our dinner peacefully and some sanitary topics.''
The door slid open and a trio of waitress arrived. The first one refilled their drinks while others laid the platter of the luxurious food on the table. The key player in any Japanese cuisine : sushi, had to be there with all of its different varieties. Tempura, Yakitori, sashimi, and definitely oden, laid before them. Some more lids were open, letting the aroma waft into the room
Along with Kaiseki Ryori, there was also a huge pot of sukiyaki, with various condiments. There was also Nikujaga next to the huge bowls of miso soup. There had to be at least twenty seven items on their table right now, only those two had to finish. Based on the past performances of their mouths with equivalent coordination from their stomachs, this was hardly a challenge.
''Is this all they got Ash?''
''Let's show these guys why we are banned in the restaurants of Hoenn, shall we May?''
Near the footsteps of the Fuschia Hills, two figures suddenly popped into existence and started laughing loudly, disturbing the birds near them and causing them to fly away. Cawing madly in annoyance.
''You cheated?!"' May complained.
''No, I faked an injury. It was a legitimate trickery.'' Ash argued.
''Whatever, you are not counting this as a win.'' May pouted, folding her hands. She looked too attractive when teased.
''Hey, just messing with ya.'' He leaned and pecked her face. ''Besides, from now on you'll always get to be right and the wins. You can let me have this one, couldn't you?''
''I guess I can,'' she blushed sheepishly, pink dusting both her cheeks, unknotting to embrace him. ''Thank you, once again.''
He looked at her with curious eyes. ''So, I was wanting to bring this up?'' Ash sipped some water. ''Is now a good time for evaluation of our relationship?''
''I think it would,'' May agreed without reluctance. ''So far, slow is good. There has no complains, and we didn't find a topic to argue on. I don't disapprove any of your qualities. But I think we can pace a little from here. I had a wonderful t-time today with you... I'm a-also glad we went d-dancing, otherwise I would have n-n-never had such a heart-stopping experience and-"
He brought his hand and gently cupped her face. Swiftly he moved, silencing her mouth with a firm kiss. May froze at the contact. Their lips fitted perfectly, movng against one another, and he clasped the back of her neck, growling in the kiss, as she whimpered. This wasn't unexpected but she didn't expect it to feel this good! She leaned into the kiss and grabbed the front of Ash's haori, pulling him closer and her blush intensified. She expected him to break the kiss at her brave and forward action but instead he wrapped his left arm around her waist again and brought her body to his, stuck together like glue. Their bodies flush against one another. The kiss intensified and she felt him bring up his right hand to play with her silky hair, massaging her scalp with his fingers and making her sigh into the kiss.
Ash was in heaven. He could feel the softness of her lips against his and the feel of her curvy body. She fit perfectly in his arms and he was loving every moment that she was pulling him closer and leaning even deeper into their kiss.
May was sure she was going to die from the amount of pleasure she was getting from Ash kissing her. She was in Ash's arms and thoroughly enjoying him massaging her head and kissing her with the most amount of love and affection she'd seen him give anyone. His lips were like an antidote to her sickness of hopelessness and he was the pillar of strength in her life, she would never stop loving him and now she knew how badly he loved her. She was truly happy, absolutely and completely at peace.
They pulled away slowly and let go of one another; Ash's arm retracting from May's scalp and his left hand lowering from her waist; May's hands loosening their hold on Ash's cloth and she brought her hands back to her sides only to start pressing her index fingers together, a habit that she had forgotten but that Ash would no doubt bring back.
Ash opened his eyes after he'd broken the kiss and saw May's face, still blushing and pouting cutely after their kiss. They both stood in an awkward silence and she looked at him with a deep blush that made him blush as well and they both came back together as May wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing his cheek before hugging him tightly. In response, Ash wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer to him, breathing in her scent of lavender and cinnamon before laughing softly to himself.
It was a romantic sight if anyone had to come across it while going for a late night stroll and it was a lovely sight; a couple kissing fiercely in such lonely environment or was that considered indecent in public?
Resting their foreheads against one another, May finally muttered.
''I have decided to travel with you to Sinnoh…''
Thursday, the last day of their training…
Muted by the thickness of the pine needles resting above them, the trilling clang of hardened bone against thick leek reached only Ash's ears as he kept watch over the battle. The Bone Rush and Night Slash attacks canceled each other, causing Sirfetch'd sword to sling back and Lucario to nimbly twist to right himself before landing on the ground.
''Now, Sirfetch'd, use Leaf Blade, and Lucario, Extremespeed!''
Needless to say, the fleet footed jackal very quickly dodged the enraged foot falls and slashes of the mighty duck, both breathing quite heavily by now. Sirfetch'd feathers was a bit charred from taking a Blaze Kick head on earlier and Lucario's trust wavered towards his signature sparring partner, recalling the nasty Night Slash he'd taken at the knight's leek.
The ground split under the Sirfetch'd Meteor Assault attack, its eyes never straying from Lucario even as dizziness overcame it.
''And that's enough!'' Ash stood up, clapping as he approached his Pokemon. ''Great job!''
''Raw…''
''Fetch'd''.
They stole glances at one another…maybe next time.
They were so caught up in their training, they failed to notice a new presence standing atop a branch of tree behind them. Some smoke balls rained down upon them, triggered like a Feraligatr's bite instinct by the lightest of touches from some unfortunate fool. Dark smoke burst open as the tools contacted the ground, eliciting coughs from them.
''Sirfetch'd, Defog!'' Ash coughed, rasping for oxygen.
Squawking the duck conjured a whirlwind blowing away the smog. Chuckling-or, what passed for chuckling for a sentient bell-the cocky looking figure somersaulted to their front. Anger and surprise in both eyes, they looked forth. Lucario hesitated, recalling no sense of aura of this arrival before. Having no reservations like inquiring so much about the nature of their opponent, Sirfetch'd only pointed his sword forward and held himself behind his shield. Pikachu hopped from Ash's shoulder, cheeks flaring with electricity. Since his Pokemon weren't welcoming this arrival so humbly, why should. He blinked, clearing the remains of the haze from his eyes, now both of them lingered on their opponent.
From the body structure, she was a female. Dressed in a tight leotard, with her uniform being shades of magenta. It was a kuniochi clothing, with steel gauntlets and shin guards. Her face remained a mystery, covered half by the same mask of magenta, but one was sure that a beautiful visage hid behind. Her hair is held together in a bun with two side braids by two hairpins Her eyes were filled with hatred and coldness, like a ninja usually does, ripped away from emotions.
''Fufufufu…So you're the clown that's about to face my father?'' she sized Ash up and down. ''Kind scrappy if you ask me. How did you get past Lorelei is a question not can be answered.''
''You're Koga's Daughter? Janine right?'' Ash squinted.
''That'll be Master Koga for you!'' she spat. ''And very well caught on! Since I am the bravest kunoichi in Fuschia, and the next in line to become the Gym Leader soon!''
''Master?'' Ash scoffed. ''Not now, not after I beat him.''
''Silence!'' She took a stance. ''You stand no chance against the Master of Poison! Let alone me! I'll show you how ninjas are formidable! Let's have a Pokemon Battle!''
''Oh look, Daddy dearest has sent his little one to spy on us,'' Ash jeered, turning away ''Sneak away.''
Like teleportation or a similar trick, Janine appeared right in front of Ash as he tend to walk away.
''I'm afraid this cannot wait! We don't accept refusals in these parts.'' Janine growled, impatiently.
''Oh…any other stuff you got?'' Ash teased lamely.
''I don't need any other,'' Janine refuted. ''Now about that battle!''
''Don't take this any further…'' Ash pressed. ''I told Aya the same thing. She didn't listen.''
''How far are you willing to go?''
''All the way…''
''Very well then!'' Janine cried, pulling something out of her fanny pack. It was a Pokeball. Just like a shuriken, it was tossed into the field, releasing out a wings shuddering Venomoth.
"Whoa," Ash uttered, impressed by the excellent condition of the Venomoth. ''What is with this family and Venonats?''
"Thanks to our super hyper ninja training in the forests of Johto, Venomoth is suitably speedy and stealthy, truly a ninja's Pokémon." Smiling proudly, she raised a hand, waving it towards Ash and his party. ''So, which Pokemon are we beating today?''
''Sirfetch'd, get in there!''
Patrolling into the fray, the wild duck took his stance, ready for battle. Sword drawn and shield over its head.
''Quite a unique Pokemon. I have never seen one before,'' Janine blinked, calling for action. ''Double Team!''
Obediently, Venomoth shuddered before illusions of itself darted out to the side. Though they were a bit translucent, the doubles were much more convincing than any other he'd ever seen! It'd take focus to distinguish them from the genuine article. With that in mind, Ash decided he should attack while he still remembered which was the real Venomoth without studying their form!
''Defog!''
An unappeasable gust blew on the field, binding up the bug types in the cyclone, one after the other duplicate puffing into smoke.
''Psychic!'' the ninja called, throwing a hand out dramatically.
Each of Venomoth's eyes glowed after it stirred to a stop, first a dark sapphire shade and then a bright turquoise blue. The leek and the leaf were lifted, and yanked across the clearing. Sirfetch'd crowed like a little child, at the loss of its weapons.
''Brave Bird!''
Ignited in yellow light that was a cry out for every bird's hidden power, every feather on the duck screamed for retribution. Who dares to take away their precious possessions. While Psychic was intact on the sword and shield, Venomoth was distracted and didn't take notice of the light engulfed duck streaking towards it. Though gravity was already pulling at them, Sirfetch'd hurried the process. Beak-first he slammed into Venomoth, and…
That was all she wrote…
The helpless bug type was pinned on the ground, where it didn't get back up.
''Venomoth, no!'' Janine called, a hand held out in futility. ''I have never seen such strength!''
''Fetch'd!'' the royal duck landed, webbed feet not standing for one second as he dashed out to reach for his leek and leaf.
''Hmmpp…your auntie lasted longer.'' Ash turned away. ''When you Dad tucks you in the bed tonight, be sure to ask him to narrate the story of Ash Ketchum!''
Recalling his Pokemon, Ash spread and hand out for Pikachu to hop on and ride his shoulder. Leaving another victim behind they took a last glance at their clearing as he walked off, ready to descend back into the woods where his friends were.
Tears welled in her eyes and splat down on the land below, she writhe and whimpered. ''Just you wait Ash Ketchum! I'm going to really apply myself and improve my skills. I want to become much better than both my father and you!"
That evening, at the inn.
Out here, far from the cities whose bright lights were still visible on the horizon, more stars were visible than anywhere else, bar maybe the Arctic Circle. The night was starless and the moon was covered the murky clouds that blended in with the rest of the sky.
Brock, Pikachu and Ash were submerged into the pleasure of hot water from the springs.
''I have to admit. This was an inspired idea, Ash!'' Brock stated.
''What better way to blow off some steam than a hot refreshing bath in the hot springs!'' Ash exclaimed, sliding deeper. ''Can you believe it? I am on my way to become the Kanto Champion.''
''Easy there,'' Brock chuckled. ''Still four more to beat, don't you?''
''I do, which is why I am totally psyched!'' Ash took a splash. ''And tomorrow, I'll do it again!''
''I heard Koga has some major power in his team.'' Brock notified.
''Guess I'll find out myself…when we meet in battle!'' Ash balled his fists, showing off a confident cocky smile ''Till then, he's just a rung on the ladder.''
Unknown to them, their words fell on a ears of the dark shadow that stood over the roof of the hot springs…
Another page written and moved on!
Koga is all set to appear in the next one! I was in a rush so didn't write much of Janine, but she'll make a couple of appearances. It is difficult to jumble between writing now and planning for the next chapters. I have already penned down Bruno, and hope I'll publish it soon.
Also, I am planning for my first ever Christmas fic. If you have any ideas, please let me know in the PM or reviews.
Finally, I think justice is served. Farfetch'd is getting his own episode and I hope same goes for Dragonite and Gengar. There has been enough Lucario for 2020.
I can't say for sure, but this is probably the last chapter for 2020. I plan to update the next chapter by earliest hours of 2021.
Till then,
See you next time!
