Author's Note:
Here it is, the end of the preliminaries and the opening ceremony for the Silver Conference. We get to meet more familiar faces and set up some subplots for the rest of the league. Sorry I missed an update on the day but hope everyone had a nice holiday time. I hoped I could've worked on it between work, but I ended up doing 11-hour days, eight days in a row so didn't get as much done as I would've liked. We also have a new poll, it's all about the future of Sudowoodo (mother) and whether she should go with Forrest or Flint (Brock's brother or father respectively). This is something new I want to try and expand on in Hoenn, where I have readers make decisions for bits in the story. Sort of give it more of a personal touch, I have a few instances set up for it. With this chapter, we also pass 100,000,0 words in this arc, hooray! In case you missed it, the preliminary opponents are one-off characters from the Johto anime who never got a chance to appear in this fic. As for Serena's performance, well it's how I plan on doing the showcase free style rounds in the series and its based off a thing called 'song-fics', which I haven't got a great of experience in but hopefully you like my take. I'll try to keep the song relevant to what's going on at the time, but I'll also be open to suggestions. Don't forget to vote and with that, let's begin.
Chapter 91: Silver Conference - The Opening Ceremony
Ash caught his Pokéball and smiled at the sight in front of him. His pure ground type was stood in front of him, hardly the most intimidating Pokémon but he made up for it with energy and enthusiasm. It was the last day that he could pass onto the top twenty-four, but this was also his last battle needed. While apprehensive to use the little guy in a serious league battle, seeing his opponent he made an acceptation.
In hindsight, he was actually glad Serena wasn't here to watch this battle due to his opponent. It's a Furret. She has been acting incredibly brave since the run in with Hunter J but every now and then he'd catch her, usually when they were alone, where she would be staring off into no-where. He was all-too familiar with it after the lake of rage. The normal type was stood on its hindlegs and loomed over the playful Pokémon. Again, not the most intimidating Pokémon either but compared to Phanpy, it was certainly bigger.
His opponent, in terms of trainer, was a young lad called Salvador. He looked to be around the age of a first timer, with long blue hair and a plain lime green shirt. This was also a major factor in Ash choosing to use Phanpy. Primeape already battled twice, and Granbull took one ball, so both were tired. Not to mention the small cage wasn't exactly suited for someone like Tauros or Aerodactyl, as proven in one of yesterday's battles.
"Phanpy versus Furret," the ref raised both flags, "let the battle, begin!"
The normal type charged forward with incredible speed. Its headfirst as Phanpy just watched with wide eyes.
"Defence Curl!" Ash shouted.
On instinct his ground type curled up into a ball, with a shimmer of the increased defence shining. Taking the headbutt head on, he was sent rolling across the field at an incredible speed. A smirk formed on Ash's face as the long nose Pokémon rebound off the metal fence and continued to pick up speed.
Zooming across the ground, he struck Furret head on and zoomed straight past. Even if not the most experienced battler, rolling is Phanpy's speciality.
The normal type appeared dazed as his ground type slammed into the metal fence. Rebounding off, the normal type scurried into the earth to avoid it.
"Careful Phanpy!" Ash called out, "Furret could come up anywhere! Just keep picking up speed!"
He didn't receive any sort of confirmation from his Long Nose Pokémon, but he did continue to roll out. Only really turning direction by slamming into the wall.
"We need stop that thing!" Salvador exclaimed, "get it off the ground!"
Watching his ground type as he zoomed across the field, small cracks appeared in the ground. Furret shot up from underneath him and he went soaring up into the air. Slamming into the metal roof of the cage as their opponent disappeared underground once more.
"Use the fall and Bulldoze!" Ash shouted.
His pale blue Pokémon uncurled himself as he fell back down onto the field. Thudding onto the ground, it became very difficult to remain standing.
Furret broke out of the earth a little bit away, wobbling back and forth. Looking closely, it also looked like it was about to be sick.
Phanpy charged forward as the shaking faded, a power barrier forming around him. The normal type slipped over top, easily avoiding him. Striking into his side and knocking him off balance. Zooming over to him, Furret began swiping with both its front paws as Phanpy cowered under it.
"We need to get away from it, Phanpy!" Ash explained, "use Mud Slap to distract then Rollout!"
His pure ground type let out a battle cry and swung his nose around in the dirt. A heap of powdered dust landed in Furret's eyes.
As the normal type closed its eyes and tried to clear its vision, Phanpy ran off and curled back up. Picking up speed, he slammed into the fence once more.
On the rebound, the long body Pokémon was still as helpless without anyway to clear its vision. Phanpy slammed into its side and sent him flying, landing directly in front of Salvador as the ground type continued rolling back a fourth. Furret tried to push itself back up, although clearly struggling.
A buzzer went off.
"And that's time," the ref declared, "due to both Pokémon still being able to battle, I declare the victor as Ash and his Phanpy due to the condition of both Pokémon and how they used many of Furret's tactics against themself, such as the hiding under ground and turning physical attacks into momentum."
Ash felt a gut punch knock the wind out of him as he landed flat on his back. A painful grunt escaped his lips as he reached for his aching stomach... only for his hand to land on his ground types head. Weakly opening his eyes, he looked at the joyful little guy with a wide smile hidden behind his trunk and his large ears flopping up and down as he practically jumped on his poor stomach.
"Yippee! Yippee! We did it!" he cheered.
Letting out a weak laugh, he relaxed onto the ground, a pain-filled smile overtaking his own face as he closed his eyes. He felt the ground type stomp over his chest before nuzzling his long nose against his cheek. Resting a hand on the ground types back, he returned the affectionate gesture.
Realising they'd want to clear the field, he forced himself up, using a hand to support his ground type and carried him out of the cage. As they exited, he found a few friends stood nearby. Namely Misty, Brock, and Gary. Serena and Leaf were off again doing that secret thing for Mr Goodshow, which neither of them would reveal last night when they met back up. Drake and Harrison also went off to compete in their own battles. Delia also went off to support the former of those two since - 'he doesn't have friends to cheer him on like Misty and Brock' - he could feel his brother's embarrassment as he walked away.
"So, this is the little guy that hatch from that egg I gave you," Gary smiled, "seeing how he just flattened you, Ashy-boy, I'm glad I did."
"Huh?" Phanpy questioned, turning his head to the side.
"It's okay, Phanpy, it's just I didn't exactly win your egg and Gary did. He's a friend from Pallet and a rival," Ash explained, scratching his head, "he won your egg but let me take it. If he didn't then you would be a part of his team now instead of mine."
Phanpy stared at the brunette before letting out a loud yawn, "okie-dokie." He curled up into a ball in Ash's hands and small snores could be heard from within him. It's not surprising he's tired after a hard-fought battle. Smiling down at him, Ash reached for the Pokéball off his belt and recalled him.
"So where should we head now?" Ash asked, "we've both won all four battles and are a part of the top twenty-four now."
"Well I don't know about you, but I'm gonna call gramps to get the rest of my team sent over," Gary explained, "then I'm gonna meet up with Daisy. She borrowed my Skarmory to make a trip to New Bark Town. Something or other on a research project for gramps after the league."
"I think I'll join ya, Gary, at least to get the rest of my team," he smiled, turning towards his two other friends, "what about you guys? I can't imagine a bunch of transferring will be the most entertaining thing to watch."
"I'm gonna explore the grounds a little," Misty explained, "there's meant to be this beautiful lake to the north of Silver town."
"And I'm gonna keep exploring the battle cages," Brock explained, "see who else is here. Magcargo imparticular wants to know if Macy is here."
"Macy?" Gary asked, "I don't remember you guys mentioning her before."
"She's a good kid," Ash shrugged, "mainly specialises in fire types. We met her between Mahogany and Blackthorn when she was trying to capture a Slugma, who just so happens to be the kid of Brock's Magcargo."
"You guys always seem to run into those sorts of trainers when on the road," Gary shook his head, "so what are we waiting for, Ashy-boy."
Following the brunette towards the closest Pokémon centre, he bid goodbye to his two friends and entered the leisurely pace. As a comfortable silence over the duo, Ash couldn't help but realise how much Gary has grown. Sure, they we're friends as kids but maybe a year or two before Serena moved to Pallet, he became a bully... it was only later he realised it was because his mother died, and his dad hid away in his job. With only his sister and the Professor as his family, he got jealous that they took interest in Ash's ability to speak with Pokémon. Which, of course, made much research so much more possible.
Now, however, they are back to being friends, of course they have that rivalry, but he wouldn't have it any other way. It's nice to know they are back to being good friends, however, he is concerned about his rivalry with Drake... that one is a lot less likely to end well and he doesn't want to pick between his friend and his brother. Especially since it focuses on his best friend in Leaf and he wants what's best for her as well.
Ash smiled as he watched the piles of Pokéballs stored in his backpack. When they called the Professor, he had Venusaur and the other lab ambassadors collect the Pokémon. With the solar beam signal specifically designated for his team, they showed up first and so he got his team before Gary. The brunette is still talking with his grandad.
Looking at them all, he couldn't help but finally feel like its starting. He's about to partake in the Silver conference and no-doubt that feeling will continue to grow tonight when he's in the opening ceremony. While its different from the Indigo league, due to not being his first conference, it's just an exciting.
"Will you just shut up!" A strangely familiar voice cried out.
Drawing his attention away from his team, he stood up and cast a glance at Gary, who simply shrugged in response. Turning back towards the screen, Ash realised he wasn't about to go and investigate. Deciding to do it himself, he walked out of the videophone longue and over towards the lobby. As he entered the main room, he saw Jimmy stood with his Typhlosion by his side.
In front of the new bark native was a young man, around the same age but much taller with pale brown hair, a light green shirt... and a cape over his shoulders. Approaching them, he quickly realised the other guy was Vincent. He never really interacted with him, realising he was more of a rival for Jimmy.
"Not until you apologise!" Vincent yelled.
"I've got nothing to apologise for," Jimmy sighed, pinching the top of his nose as he turned to the side.
"Hey, what's going on here?" Ash asked, trying to get between them.
"What do you mean you have nothing to apologise for!" Vincent cried out, "Marina was my love! We were destined to be together and you just go and stab me in the back! We we're friends! I never should've let you travel with her!"
Ash could feel the embarrassment radiating off Jimmy. He never was a fan of attention and here Vincent was causing a massive scene.
"Why don't you just calm down," Ash tried once again to step in between but he was shoved back by the lanky boy.
Annoyed that his attempts to stop this we're being ignored and wanting to help stop this before it gets out of control. He ignored Vincent as he went on a larger rant about how much of a thief Jimmy was. Flipping his backpack open, he searched through his pile of Pokéballs for one. Well, not one imparticular, but one of his louder Pokémon to help break up this scene. He soon found one he was looking for and took it out.
Pressing the button and in a flash of light emergered his Charizard. The fire type looked around twitched an eye at the ranting trainer. Ash smiled and gestured for him to go straight ahead. His fire flying type stepped forward and took a deep breath.
A familiar glint in his eye and corner of his mouth flicked up in a smirk before releasing a massive roar. The whole building seemed to shake as both trainers turned towards him. Typhlosion crouched down and growled as Jimmy's hand instantly went to another Pokéball. Vincent... fell over and scuttered away with bulging eyes filled with fear. Ash walked around his lizard Pokémon and patted him on the shoulder to signal a stop.
"Hey Jimmy, sorry about Charizard but I couldn't really get either of your attentions," Ash explained, turning to his fire flying type, "thanks buddy."
"No worries," he smirked, "so when do I get to battle?"
"Slow down bud, we have the opening ceremony tonight and then we find out who our opponents will be," he explained, holding the device out to recall his Charizard.
"So, I take it that means you've passed the preliminaries as well?" Jimmy asked, as his own fire starter stood back up.
"Yep," he smiled, "we just won the fourth battle earlier this morning."
"Fourth?" Vincent asked, "how did you get an extra battle? Is it because you've competed in other conferences before?"
"What? All trainers have to win four battles," Jimmy sighed, "you did compete in your fourth, right?"
"What?!" Vincent cried out, jumping to his feet, "I knew you were a back stabber, but you could've at least told me I had an extra battle!"
With a massive gust of wind threatening to blow his hat off his head, as the lanky boy charged out of the Pokémon centre, his cape blowing in the wind. He also noticed the other New Bark native visibly relaxing in place.
"You okay?" Ash asked.
"Yeah," he smiled, "thanks for that. Vincent has been on my case ever since we return to New Bark for a couple weeks before the league."
"Ouch," he winced, "I can make a guess what about but wanna talk about it."
Jimmy gestured over towards a table next to the window. Following his cue, he walked over to the table and sat opposite him, with Pikachu jumping down onto the table. The Johto native shrunk into the seat and glanced across the lobby clearly looking to see if anyone was watching. Chancing a look himself, Ash couldn't see anyone imparticular, but he couldn't say the same for when the argument was taking place.
"So..." Ash encouraged.
"It was all over Marina," Jimmy admitted, his cheeks turning a rosy pink colour, "Vincent hasn't been so subtle about his... attraction towards her but she always turned him down. For a long time, I thought they were a better match, both being energetic and such."
"But opposites tend to work better," Ash finished, "I have a friend, Leaf, who is practically a sister. She's just as energetic and such but we never would've worked together as anything other than friends because we're too similar. It's because of our differences that I work so well with Serena, she always gets me to calm down and see the world. Which has led to me to meeting many of my Pokémon."
"Right," Jimmy smiled, "and Marina wasn't very subtle about her friend zoning him even before we got together. Honestly, he kind of annoyed me more than anything but we remained friends thanks to Marina."
"Where is she, anyway?" Ash asked, "I would've thought she'd be here to support you in your battles."
"She was," he nodded, "but when Vincent started, she made her exit. She sent a text saying she went shopping but just wanted to avoid the commotion. What about Serena? Or your other friends?"
"Serena is off doing her own thing, she wouldn't tell me because its meant to be top secret," he explained, "as for Misty and Brock, after I finished my battles they decided to go off and explore Silver town since all I could was collect the rest of my team whilst waiting for the opening ceremony to begin."
"Cool," he smiled, "I not so long ago called Professor Elm to get my full team to. It feels surreal to actually have more than six Pokémon with me."
"How many do you have?" Ash asked, "I know I've seen several members, but I don't think I've met all of them."
"Eight in total so not a massive improvement but it still feels great... in a weird way," Jimmy smiled, "
Seeing a door open out of the corner of his eye, Ash turned towards it. He saw Gary walking across the lobby before stopping at the table. A confident smirk on his face as his hand rested in his pocket. With a flick of his head, Ash took the cue and slide across towards the window, allowing him to take a seat.
"So how do you know about ole Ashy-boy here kid?" he asked.
"Jimmy," he corrected, "and I met him on my first day as a trainer and met up a few times throughout my journey. What about you?"
"I'm the great Gary Oak," he exclaimed, "son of Kanto's champion. Grandson of world-renowned Professor. I'm almost insulted you need to ask."
"Oh yeah, your both sons of champions, or well, was at least," Ash mentioned.
"Was?" Gary asked.
"My dad was the Johto champion, but he lost the title four years ago," Jimmy explained, "now it's my brother."
"Ah, so you plan on going into the family business, I take it," Gary replied, "I may be the one to win this conference this year but don't worry, I don't plan on stealing that particular position from ya kid."
"Erm," Jimmy stuttered, "w-well nice to meet you, Gary b-but I gotta go and find my old man. He's meant to be arriving any minute."
The New Bark native quickly got up and scuttered across the lobby with his Typhlosion nearby. Ash sighed, he had no idea why Gary was now bigging himself up or why he seemingly retorted back to his old arrogant self, but he would be sure to find out why. As the young trainer was almost out of lobby, Gary turned towards him.
"See ya around, Jim-bo," Gary called out. He sighed and relaxed in the seat; a proud smirk spread across his face. One of his eyes popped open and he glance at Ash, who wasn't pleased with that interaction, "what's the matter Ashy-boy? You look like you just saw your Charizard's old trainer or something."
"What the hell was that about, Gary?" Ash asked, "Jimmy was already nervous and then you go and make a scene like that."
"What's the big deal?" Gary asked, "it's not like I haven't done it before."
"I thought you had changed dude," Ash shook his head, "couldn't you tell Jimmy was getting uncomfortable? He doesn't like being compared to his family."
"Chill, Ashy-boy," Gary laid back in the seat, "of course I knew that. Well, now at least. Guess I should be sorry that I scared him off but it's just because I wanted to speak to ya. Don't worry, I'll apologise to him sooner or later if it'll make you feel better."
Ash sighed and covered his eyes with a hand, "what did you want to speak about?"
"Drake," Gary replied, sitting up straight in his seat and turning to face him fully. Ash sat back against the window and stared his rival turned friend direct in the eyes, "tell me honestly, Ash, does he plan on returning Leaf's feelings? I'm not blind to her affection and its clear he hasn't so far."
Biting his lower lip, Ash cast his glance away. Should he be 'gossiping' about his brother's possible relationship?
"Look Ash, I consider you my best friend so I'm asking for the truth," Gary replied, "I'll be honest, if the answer is yes then I'll support them. Leaf is special to me, so I just want her to be happy... but if no, then I need to be ready to support her. I just don't want to see her get hurt. I might not like him but if he is the one, she has chosen then I won't interfere if I don't need to."
Ash sighed and turned back towards the Oak boy. His eyes were still staring directly at him, locked in place, "no. No, I don't think he does."
Gary nodded and turned his gaze away. Standing up from the seat he began to walk away across the lobby. Ash watched as he disappeared out of the building before turning towards his best buddy... why couldn't they just have a nice league where everyone got along and we're friends?
Serena took a seat, her forehead covered in sweat and her breathing was heavy. Across the table was Aria, who still had her casted leg resting on another chair. Leaf was also sat at the table. Her three Pokéballs containing the group they put together for the performance was in front of her. She glanced up to see an assistant approaching the table with a traditional holder for some sort of dress.
"My stylist Paris has been hard at work since yesterday to get an outfit ready for your performance," Aria explained, "feel free to try it on but I'm afraid it might be a little late to make any major changes."
"Thank you," she replied, accepting the clothing from the assistant, "I'll go and try it on."
"Good," Aria smiled, as the assistant moved to pick up the Pokéballs, "and we'll take the squad for a check-up. They've worked hard and wouldn't want them, or you completely tired out before the show tonight."
Nodding in agreement, she watched the assistant walk away before standing up and she quickly made her way across the floor. She made her way into the private restroom to the main hall which had been closed off for their rehearsals. She changed into the outfit and couldn't help but blush as she took in her own appearance. It all fitted perfectly but her legs were on display and it also had her chest stand out pretty much completely. Maybe she is just self-conscious, but she wouldn't want all these people to see her dressed in something so... revealing.
Changing back into her normal clothes, she put the outfit back into the holder. She quickly made her way back into the longue and began walking across the floor as she saw her new mentor and best friend in some sort of discussion.
"If I was you, Leaf, I would just lay all cards out on the table with this Drake," she heard Aria suggest to the brunette, "I may not have a partner right now but I've been in your situation before. I use to travel with a researcher before earning my title and I had feelings grow for him. It got so bad that I couldn't focus on my career and had a pretty dreadful attempt at the master class but was offered a chance to train with my now mentor Palermo."
"What happened?" she asked.
"I decided that I would let him decide. I laid out my feelings for him and let him decide," she replied, "he didn't reciprocate them and so I took on the mentorship, winning the next master class. I still think of him from time to time and while it hurt, I knew that it was for the best, but I couldn't just move on without letting him know. There would've always been that voice in my head asking, what if?"
"Ya know, I think your right!" Leaf jumped up, "I'm gonna find him and tell him."
"Now?" Serena asked, taking her seat, and hooking the dress onto the back of her chair.
"Yeah," she replied, "if not now... I'm not sure I'll get the courage to do so any time soon."
"Well... good luck, I guess," she mumbled as the energetic girl ran off.
"What's the matter, Serena?" Aria asked, "from what I've gotten to know of you over the last two days, I would've thought you'd support Leaf in this."
"I do," Serena reassured, "but Drake... he's kind of my boyfriend's brother and, he has been pretty clear. With my boyfriend, at least, that he isn't interested in Leaf, in that way. I've tried to let her down gently, but it didn't work and-"
"And you know she's walking straight into a heart break?" Aria finished the sentence, to which she nodded, "look Serena. I understand you want to protect your friend, but you need to know that, if Leaf is going to walk out onto the next step of her journey then she'll need to experience this heart break."
"I... guess you're right," she sighed.
"So anyway, what did you make of your outfit?" Aria asked.
"It was alright... for the most part," she muttered.
"For the most part?" Aria asked, "what's the matter with it? Tell me and I'll do what I can to get Paris to fix it. You're doing this favour for me and so the least I could do is make you comfortable."
"Well... it's just a little, revealing," Serena blushed, looking to the side, "my legs are almost fully on show and... it's kind of makes my chest stand out too."
Aria shook her head, taking her phone out and quickly began texting away, "sorry about this Serena. Paris is use to designing outfits for a more... mature performer so I should've seen this coming. The legs, they are easy to cover. I assume you have tights ready to wear. If not, I can get my assistant to pick some up for you."
"Yeah, I do," Serena nodded.
"Good," Aria smiled, putting her phone down, "black tights might clash with the white and pink aesthetic but as long as you're comfortable, that's all that matters. I have sent Paris a text and she'll do what she can about the other issue."
"Thank you, Aria," Serena bowed, "you've taught me so much about showcases and choregraphing these performances. I feel so much more confident about partaking in them during Hoenn."
"No Serena, thank you," she shook her head, "without your help, this show wouldn't be possible. But if you're planning on competing seriously then might I suggest you do one thing?"
"Of course," she smiled, turning towards her.
"Go and get an eye test done. I know you've done performing for contests and the chateau so far but performers, more than any other precession has a habit of damaging eye sight with all the bright lights," she explained, "the sooner you get protection for them, the better position you'll be in."
"I will," she nodded.
Brock sat down on the dirt ground in front of a metal fence. Beside him was his Magcargo, whose eyes we're locked forward and a proud smile adorn over his face. Looking closely, he even saw a shimmer of tears forming in his eyes. Smiling down at him, Brock turned forward to see the sight as well.
On the other side of the fence was another battlefield with Macy on one side. They reunited shortly before the call for this battle and with Magcargo egar to see how much his little girl had grown under the care of her new trainer, which Macy agreed to show him by using her in this battle. Her opponent was a young boy who appeared to be around her age. With medium length blue hair and a dark green shirt on.
"This will be a one on one match between Zachary Evans of Eckruteak and Macy Moe of Mahogany," the ref declared, "both trainers shall reveal their Pokémon at the same time and neither side can make substitutions. After three minutes, if both sides are still able to battle then a victor shall be judged based on a combination of the two competing Pokémon's overall condition and the battle prowess seen. Understood?"
"Of course, we do!" Macy called out.
"Same," Zachary nodded.
"Then reveal your Pokémon!" the ref declared.
"Yanma, you're up!" Zachary shouted as he tossed his Pokéball.
In a flash of light, the bug flying type appeared hovering in front of his trainer. Comparing its long, thin abdomen, its thorax is short and wide. It has three pairs of two-toed legs and two pair of wings with red bands on them. A bright green mask covered most of its face, and it had two spikes on top of its head, which we're slightly pointed backwards. His blue eyes were wide and, in a position, to see all around. The end of Yanma's tail had two flat extensions from the sides and two grey spikes in the centre.
"Slugma, its show time!" Macy called, with her pure fire type appearing on the field in front of her.
Looking at his own fire slug, Brock saw his eyes welling up with pride. A small smile formed on his face, it was a similar experience to him seeing his brother take on gym challengers or even when he saw Ash compete in a league or Serena with the chateau and contests.
"Slugma versus Yanma," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
The first to move was the bug flying type. It quickly disappeared out of sight, but its constant buzzing confirmed its location. Turning towards the fire type, she was clearly in some sort of distress with her eyes squinted shut and her head failing around.
Her body began to glow bright red. An explosion happened within her, a cloud of black smoke covering the result.
Turning towards the fence, he saw the bug flying type become visible for a brief moment. Burns covered his body as he slowed down to avoid crashing.
The smoke raised up to reveal Slugma, panting but still clearly in the fight.
"Flame Burst and keep it at bay!" Macy shouted.
Slugma nodded, turning her head towards the ceiling, and taking a deep breath. She launched a couple fire balls into the air. They each exploded in a fiery display. Covering the entire ceiling of the cage.
Yanma entered a dive, but it wasn't moving quite as fast. Brock could only conclude one thing; his wing had been damaged.
Swooping over the pure fire type at the last moment, two sound waves smashed into the ground. Slugma was sent flying and thudded on the ground.
The red dragonfly shot after her, his wings glowing white as he attempted to speed up once more.
"Clear Smog and trap it!" Macy shouted.
A white mist exhaled through the fire types skin, and as soon as it hit Yanma, it lost almost all speed. Coming to a complete stop mid-air, it looked around as if to question what happened to the speed boosts it gained from its ability.
Slugma used the stun to launch herself up with a lava plume directed downward. Flying the short distance, she slammed down on the bug flying type with a powerful body slam. Trapping the clear wing Pokémon on the ground, flames covering his whole body for a few moments.
Brock had to admit, using its speed against it was smart. Taking away that sort of boost can leave the opponent feeling drained and leave them open and while some might consider it lucky she inflicted a burn, the amount of fire used, combined with her ability made it near-impossible to be avoided completely.
"Sonic Boom against the ground and show that slug a thing or two!" Zachary shouted.
Despite weighing down his whole body, Yanma's wings were still free to beat. Slowly, little gusts of wind blew out from under them as Yanma began to take off with the fire type on his back. Zooming straight up, Slugma began to fall through the air.
Looping around, it didn't take long for the clear wing Pokémon to start building up speed once more. Waves of green type energy buzzed off the speedy Pokémon as it shot towards the falling fire type.
"Slugma!" Macy cried out.
Her body glew bright red once more as she crashed into the ground. Yanma attempted to quickly divert course, but the burn took effect once more. That split-second cost him greatly as the explosion which followed consumed him. Although he did fly out of the smoke moments later.
As the smoke cleared, the ref moved in closer to see, hands ready on the flag as he clearly expected the outcome. However, a bright light emerged from the smoke cloud, causing him to move back and cover his eyes for protection. A smaller explosion seemed to take place, blowing the remaining smoke away revealed another Magcargo where Slugma once was.
The rock on her back was smaller than her father's but it still matched her body proportionally since she, too, was still smaller.
Taking a deep breath, she looked up at the Yanma, who was circling around above, like a predator bird awaiting its prey. Releasing her built up energy, a massive stream of flames roared upwards, covering most of the moveable space as Yanma attempted to squeeze down the sides.
With the burn taking effect once more, Yanma crashed against the intense heat. Both Zachary and the referee also seemed effected as both were drenched in sweat. While the bug flying type attempted to push itself up, the newly evolved Magcargo ended her Flamethrower.
Spinning her head around, she spat out another fire ball. Unable to take flight, Yanma closed his eyes.
The flame burst made direct contact and exploded in a fiery eruption. Zachary's clear winged Pokémon cried out and fell on the ground stomach first. As the fire surrounding him faded, his burnt body was left lying on the ground, unmoving with swirls in his eyes.
"Yanma is unable to battle," the ref declared, "and with that, the winners are Macy and her newly evolved Magcargo. With her fourth victory under her belt, she'll be one of our top twenty-four moving on to the next round."
Looking at his own rock fire type, his head was tilted to the side with wide moist eyes which held an adoring gaze. A few tears escaped down his dimpled grin, which was planted on his lips, and showed no signs of being removed. The tears quickly evaporated, as he squeezed his eyes shut.
Standing up, he moved towards the gate, with his Magcargo slivering by his side. While not the fastest Pokémon, they hardly had to go anywhere. Macy quickly recalled her newly evolved fire rock type before skipping towards them. Once she was in front, she held her device out once more and released the female lava Pokémon. Who quickly approached her father, the two embracing by nuzzling their heads together?
"Brocky-poo! You made it to see me compete!" she cried, throwing herself at him. He wasn't nearly fast enough to avoid her clinging hug.
Sighing, he just stood still and waited for her to let go. It's not that he dislikes her, she reminds him of many of his little sisters back in Pewter. Filled with energy and enthusiasm. She clearly cares for her Pokémon, even if she has some type issues with certain species. It's just that she is really young for him, it's the same reason he never hit on Serena or Misty when they first met. Not to mention that after his heartbreaks with both Professor Ivy and Suzie, he just isn't ready for a relationship. Luckily, she seemed to get the hint he wouldn't return the gesture and ended the one-sided embrace.
"Hey Macy, it's good to see you again," he smiled, casting his glance down to the two Magcargo, "he really wanted to see his daughter again. I wouldn't be surprised if he does throughout the entire tournament."
"That's okay Brocky-poo, because I wanted to see you again too," she cooed, in a sing-songy voice, "tell ya what. Why don't we exchange numbers and contact details?"
"I don't think that's a good-" Brock was cut off.
"Why not?" she instantly asked, "this way we can keep both Magcargo up to date on how the other is doing."
"I guess it'll be okay for that," Brock sighed, he knew exactly where she was going with this, but she also did make a good point. While he hates to encourage her hero worship, he also wouldn't want to pass up an opportunity for his Magcargo to remain in contact with his daughter.
"Great!" she exclaimed, quickly scribbling down on a piece of paper, "so here is my Pokegear number. You could call, or text or whatever, whenever. We could even sync up our GPS's so if we're nearby then-"
"Whoa, slow down," Brock held his hands up, "I thought this would be about Magcargo... Magcargo's? Magcarg-i's? Whatever the plural for Magcargo is, exchanging numbers is for them to keep in touch. I'm flattered you like me Macy but-"
"Don't say it," she cut him off, "I already know. You need a real women, a women worth of your heroics and to prove to you that I am that women, I'll win the Silver conference and then we'll be the new Johto power couple!"
"Erm," Brock sweat dropped, not sure what to say.
"Not another word, I need to get the rest of my team prepared for the next rounds but why don't you keep both the Magcargo's here so they can catch up," she suggested, "it would also give me an excuse to see you later. Buh-bye Brocky-poo."
As he watched her run off, he couldn't help but sigh in defeat. His hand fell into his hand as he relaxed his posture, almost sitting back down once more. Any attempt he tried to let her down easy was just simply cut off. Looking down past his hand, he smiled as he watched the bashfulness of the smaller Magcargo as her father praised the battle. He didn't need any help in understanding the pride his own lava Pokémon held for his daughter, even in the short time that she has been gone, she has grown a lot.
Drake took the last of his Pokéballs off the transporter and nodded towards the screen where Professor Oak was. The elderly man smiled and bid him goodbye as the screen faded to black. Standing up from his seat, he saw his trusty ground type stood, tapping his foot.
"Yes, yes we can go and train now," Drake rolled his eyes.
The bone keeper Pokémon threw his arms up into the air, as if to say 'finally', in an exaggerated manner. Leading the way down the corridor, Drake fiddled with the devices attached to his belt. Now he had all his team available, he'd have to be more calculating when deciding who to use against his opponents.
Walking over to the main lobby, he made a stop by the front desk where a Chansey was typing on one of the computers. He took out one of the trays designed to hold six Pokéballs and quickly filled it up. He also left his seventh remaining Pokéball next to it and wrote his name on the slip. The normal type smiled as he told her that it was just a general check-up. She took them away and he ran his hand across his remaining six Pokéballs.
Making his way towards the back battlefield, he soon stood outback. Luckily, no-one else seem to be around so one by one he released his team. Of course, Marowak was already stood by his side. One by one, they appeared in front of him like a line when-
A blur appeared before complete darkness covered his eyes.
"Guess whoooo!" a sing songy voice echoed. He didn't even need to guess who it belonged to. Sighed, he rolled his eyes, not that anyone would've been able to see. Whenever she is in this sort of mood, he is sure she'll be three times as annoying as usual.
"I'm busy," he scoffs, causing her to remove her hand-made blindfold. Turning towards the energetic brunette, she crossed her arms and pouted.
"No need to be a spoil-Spinarak," she mumbled.
Shaking his head with a sigh, he turned back around to his current selection of Pokémon which mostly consisted of his Johto team, with Marowak and Rapidash. Excluding the ground type, all of these have never competed in a league, so he wanted to ensure they knew what was about to happen.
"Hey! I wanted to actually speak to you, ya know," she stomped her foot, "I didn't come to find you for the fun of it."
"Wouldn't surprise me," he thought to himself, but bite his tongue as it'll likely just get him in more trouble. Sighing once more, he looked at his team, "go and continue your training and I'll be back when I can."
All of them nodded in understanding and scuttered off, with Marowak taking the opportunity to give out instructions. Happy that at least they won't be slowed down by this annoyance. Next journey he goes on, he is definitely travelling alone. He turned back to face her.
"So, what do you want?" he asked.
"Just... to talk," she turned sideways, fiddling with a strand of her hair.
"Can't this wait until later?" he asked, "like when I don't have a league to focus on?"
"W-well, that's it. I kind of hope this would help you with the league," she stuttered, a pink tint flushing her cheeks, her voice breaking into something barely above a whisper, "like how Serena will be helping Ash with her support during his league battles."
"I don't have time for thi-" he tried to turn away but was stopped. Looking down at his arm, he saw that she was holding onto him.
"Stop!" she cried, "look, I don't know if I'll have the strength to do this so... it's now or never. I-I like you, like, like-like you. And before you say it's just because off how you look like Ash and we were always so similar and now he's with Serena but it's not that. He was always like a brother to me but you... your different. A good different. You got me to slow down, helped me search for Pokémon smarter and I'm a better adventurer because of it."
"Leaf..." he mumbled.
"And I know you use to be sort of a jerk, not the Gary sort of jerk but a know it all jerk," she continued, "but you grew past it and threw our Johto journey together, I-I feel like we've grown together... grown closer."
She took a deep breath and bowed her head. Her hands clasped together over her heart as her long brown hair covered her face. Part of him felt like he should use this opportunity to run but knew she'd hunt him down sooner or later so might as well deal with this now.
"We haven't," he finally replied, "I may be better at bonding with Pokémon from watching Ash, but emotions are still a foreign concept to me. I don't feel joy or excitement, I don't get angry or wound up. Sure, I can mimic those emotions to save face with others but actually understanding or feeling them is something else entirely. I might have all the characteristics of a human, flesh, bone, blood, but in reality, I'm just a shell, unfeeling."
"At best I'm a high functioning sociopath."
"You think I helped you get better at exploring because I liked you or wanted to watch you grow. When in reality I did it so I could get my gym battles in on time. I knew if I didn't, we'd still be halfway around mount silver before reaching the first town. I don't like you; I never have. If given the choice I would've picked to travel alone every day, but you chose to invite yourself along and I had no way to stop you."
Pausing, he waited to see her reaction. Slowly she lifted her head to reveal blood-red eyes with tears streaming down her face. She attempted to wipe them away, but they were just replaced. Unable to say anything, she ran off.
He knew that he should feel guilty about doing that, even if there was no easy way to let her down... but he didn't
Shrugging, he turned back towards his Pokémon. "Okay guys, gather round. This will be your first conference, so I want you all to be sure what lies ahead."
Ash took a deep breath as he stood in a crowd of trainers. Only twenty-four were there so it was easy to look around at them. Harrison was easy to make out, since he was one of the tallest in the group. Looking around he also saw Jimmy, Casey, Paul, Macy, Drake and Gary. Although the latter was staring daggers at his twin brother, not that he was all that surprised.
He encounted Leaf at the hotel when she was sobbing whilst running through the lobby. While he tried to get her to talk, his attempts to knock on her door was fruitless as she just ignored him... he wished he could've stayed longer but he had to leave for this ceremony.
"Competing trainers, the opening ceremony is about to begin," a voice explained over the PA system, "if you would all be so kind, please release one of your Pokémon to accompany you onto the field."
Smiling at the partner on his shoulder, he scratched Pikachu on top of his head as he cooed in excitement. He really didn't need to choose. Flashes of lights went off around him as each trainer made their choice. Some were obvious, like Drake and Marowak but he took interest in who everyone else chose. Gary seemed to go with his Umbreon, Paul his Electavire and Macy went with her Ninetales. Jimmy went with Typhlosion and likewise, Casey her Meganium. He even made out a large Feraligatr to complete the final evolution of the Johto starter trio, but he didn't recognise the trainer. With Harrison choosing his Blaziken, easily the one that captured his attention most... maybe because he knows they'll be going to Hoenn next.
"Okay, please follow the assistance as they lead you out onto the field," the voice requested.
Four referees dressed in the traditional green scout uniform appeared and made them line up in a sort of square shape. It would've been six rows of four trainers, but Ash noticed a suspicious empty spot where the first trainer should have been. Were there really only twenty-three trainers competing?
Walking out onto the field, a bright light blinded him as he stepped out. Roars of cheers could be heard and looking around he saw waves of people above in the spectators stand. He thought about trying to make out his mum or Serena or any of the others but realised it would be next to impossible, especially with the night sky covering them from making out anyone imparticular.
Glancing around he saw a small stand with a giant metal bowl behind and Mr Goodshow stood in front of a microphone. Beside him was Jimmy's brother, Ethan and his Typhlosion. Each of the elite four stood behind with their signature Pokémon, Will and his Xatu, Koga and his Crobat, Dahlia and her Sylveon, with Karen and her Houndoom being the last ones. It took a few minutes but eventually all the cheering calmed down.
"Before we move on to the main reason we're all gathered here tonight, it is with great sadness that I announce the departure of one of your Johto elite four who are stood here," Mr Goodshow announced, as Dahlia stepped forward, "our fairy type specialist has accepted another battling position in the Sinnoh region and thus, this will be her last Silver conference with us. I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say you'll be dearly missed."
"No need to be all doom and gloom guys!" she took the microphone with an upbeat tone, "I've loved every moment in my time with this rag tag group of misfits, but I feel I've been here long enough. Other than Karen, I'm the longest serving member! I was even here when Ethan's old man was in charge!"
"Well, thank you for lightening the mood for us, Dahlia," Ethan took the mic, "but as is customary in situations like this. Whichever of the trainers before us down here, will have the honour of facing you first in the elite four challenge as its your last chance in doing so. Of course, before that we have a whole conference to run so I'll pass it back to president Goodshow to get on with the ceremony."
"While I'm sure your all eager to learn who'll be replacing Dahlia, unfortunately we'll be keeping that secret until her exit match with this year's Silver conference winner," Mr Goodshow announced, "but now it's time we get this started so please welcome the first trainer to pass our preliminary match ups and make it to the top twenty-four here today. Our torch runner, Calem Xavier from the Aquacorde Town in the Kalos region!"
From a nearby entrance, a single flame could be seen flickering before Calem appeared running out with his flame in hand. His Espeon was running beside him and he made his way up the stairs towards metal bowl. Once at the top, he handed off to Ethan who lit the metal bowl as Calem walked down to fill in the missing spot on the square of twenty-four trainers.
Ash made a mental note to catch up with him at some point. He is Serena's cousin, after all, so they are practically family.
"Now that our Ho-Oh flame has been lit, you're in for a special treat," Mr Goodshow spoke once more as the elite four began walking off, "to celebrate the integration of the showcases into our beloved Johto region. Kalos queen Aria was going to preform for us, but she unfortunately she injured herself during rehearsals but because the show must go on, she has trained this year's Johto grand festival winner in a showcase themed performance!"
Ash's eyes widened as the lights began to dim. So, this was what Mr Goodshow wanted Serena for and where she's been the last couple of days.
"Please put your hands together for new top coordinator and your Johto grand festival champion, Serena Yvonne!"
A single spotlight appeared on the podium where Mr Goodshow was once stood. As a small Jigglypuff was raised up, microphone in hand. She began singing into the mic, but a much louder song played over, clearly giving them impression that she was the source.
"Like a small boat."
"On the ocean."
"Sending big waves."
"Into motion."
Jigglypuff began spinning around in a simple dance in time with the tune. Giant musical notes floating out of differing colours.
"Like how a single word."
"Can make a heart open."
"I might only have one match."
"But I can make an explosion."
A small Quilava ran out onto the stage, a spotlight appearing to follow her. She smashed through the first musical note - bursting it into a sprinkle of sparks - and both her back and head flames burst on as she shot forward and jumped through the remaining notes.
"And all those thing I didn't say."
"Wrecking balls inside my brain."
"I will scream them loud tonight."
"Can you hear my voice this time?"
Quilava curled up into a ball and became a spinning disc of flames as the last note sprinkled down into dust. She curved around the stage and began leaving a trail of flames behind as they created a backdrop for the setting.
Jigglypuff continued to dance and 'sing' at centre stage.
From the opposite side of the stage to what Quilava entered, Serena came running out with her Ledian flying just above her. The flames dancing off the hero bugs scales and Serena's outfit which seemed to shine under the spotlight.
"This is my fight song."
"Take back my life song."
"Prove I'm alright song."
Quilava made a swift U-turn as her flames stopped, extending out of her curl - she pounced up to Serena - who held her hands out and pushed back allowing the fire type to perform a back flip off her.
Ledian continued onward to the end of the stage and swirled around unleashing a sparkling Silver Wind across the performance. Quilava landed on her back legs and shot out a widespread barrage of embers which trickled away in the display creating a shimmering flame effect over the stage - as Serena danced with Jigglypuff on stage - who continued to 'sing'.
"My powers turned on."
"Starting right now I'll be strong."
"I'll play my fight song."
Ledian charged through the display, once again her shiny scales glistening against both the embers and Silver Wind. She reached Serena - who caught her hands, and they began spinning around on stage - with Jigglypuff stood at the centre.
"And I don't really care if nobody else believes."
"Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me."
Letting go of the bug flying type - she flew high into the air above both Serena and Jigglypuff. A trail of embers lighting her way up until she became almost invisible under the night sky.
"Losing friends and I'm chasing sleep."
"Everybody's worried about me."
"In too deep."
"Say I'm in too deep (in too deep)."
Serena picked up the normal fairy type and took the mic off her. Jigglypuff, curled up into a ball and began rolling across her back in one fluid motion. Once at the end of her opposite hand - she lifted her arms up and Jigglypuff rolled down her body before she kicked her legs to give her a little boost.
Landing in a pose, Serena tossed her singing Pokémon the microphone and she skilfully caught it before resuming her own dance and 'singing'.
"And it's been two years I miss my home."
"But there's a fire burning in my bones."
"Still believe."
"Yeah, I still believe."
Quilava ran back into the centre of the field and Serena welcomed her with open arms. She caught the fire type and gave her a push up, so she flew directly up. Releasing a spinning tornado of flames upwards.
A bright golden box appeared where Ledian was last scene. The flames hit the box and a fireworks explosion of flames and golden sprinkles rained down as the bug type zoomed down looking as energetic as ever.
"And all those things I didn't say."
"Wrecking balls inside my brain."
"I will scream them loud tonight."
"Can you hear my voice this time?"
Jigglypuff continued to dance beneath the shower of flames and glittered - completely absorbed by the attention.
Serena took off as Ledian re-joined them - with Quilava - the three off them took off across the stage. Serena spread her arms, as if to give the impression of flight. Quilava on one side of her and Ledian on the other.
"This is my fight song."
"Take back my life song."
"Prove I'm alright song."
As they reached the end of the stage - they made a wide turn, Quilava jumping across and high fiving Serena in the process - landing in a curled-up position, she began rolling around as she burst into flames once more. Ledian still swirling over head - linking hands with the honey-blonde girl.
"My powers turned on."
"Starting right now I'll be strong."
"I'll play my fight song."
They reached the middle of the stage and Serena stopped behind her normal fairy type - who jumped up, landing on her trainer's hands, and getting a leap up onto Serena's hat whilst striking a pose.
"And I don't really care if nobody else believes."
"Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me."
Quilava shot past them and quickly turned - leaping towards Serena, her flames disappeared - being caught by her trainer. Ledian swirling around them all whilst leaving a trail of glittering dust over them and striking a pose just above Jigglypuff.
"A lot of fight left in me."
As she stood with her three Pokémon, Ash finally got a good chance to take in her outfit. Her shoes were light pink, and black tights covered her legs as she had a skirt with stripes going down, half white half the same shade of pink. She seemed to have a white sleeveless blazer with two golden straps holding it together, creating a sort of cape around her skirt as well. A pair of white gloves covering her hands, and while the lower part of her inner shirt appeared to be white, the part near her neck was pink and also held a large pink bow. Finally, a large white top hat was atop her head, with hearts along the side.
His breath stuck in his throat, as his mouth dried up. He also became very aware that his trousers had become ever tighter whilst watching the performance, his eyes lingering on Serena as Mr Goodshow made his way back onto the stage. He was clapping as the crowds erupted with applause. He could make out the faintest tint of pink in Serena's cheeks, but he wasn't sure if that were from the fire in the performance or the attention.
"It's hard to believe that whole performance was put together over the last two days," Mr Goodshow announced as Serena dropped her two Pokémon that weren't flying beside her. All four of them gave a bow, making their way off stage, "but now it's time to reveal our match ups for this top twenty-four trainers' battles starting tomorrow. We have split our trainers up into groups of three and they will all battle each other. A win equals three points, a tie is one point each and a loss is worth nothing. The trainer who wins the most points in each group shall be moving on, to create our top eight finalists. So, look towards the screen for the match ups that will be playing out throughout the next few days! These battles will be three on three match ups."
Turning towards one of the large screens, he saw it light up with eight boxes, each one with a letters marking them out. He quickly found himself in the first group and he was paired up with both Macy and Vincent. He also saw that Jimmy and Casey had been grouped up. Drake and Gary were in the same group while Paul, Calem and Harrison were all on their own.
A smile overtook his face as he realised that it was finally happening. He was at the Silver conference!
Ash slammed his head down on the desk. The computer screen was filled with images of Macy's eight Pokémon: Typhlosion, Ninetales, Magcargo, Houndoom, Flareon, Growlithe, Magby and Electabuzz. One would think that her having a type speciality would make his decision making even easier but that was hardly the case.
He listed down all his Pokémon with an obvious advantage over the fire typing. Those being water types, ground types and even his power houses like Dragonite and Aerodactyl. He already knew it would be cruel to go at her with a combo of both his heaviest hitters and even Sandslash would be a little overpowered considering its her first league. As for a water type, he was pretty spoilt for choice, but he also didn't want to go in solely with water types because of that Electabuzz. The only one he had settled on so far was Houndoom, who made it clear he wanted the chance to battle Ninetales after how she put down Quilava when they first met.
"What do I do, Pikachu?" Ash asked, "do I go in with a team from Kanto and make easy work or-"
"Why not settle for picking one water type?" he suggested, "my vote goes for Lapras. She'd love the chance to battle."
"Lapras?" he asked, "but her ice type?"
"Wouldn't matter much and she is literally designed to take a hit," Pikachu replied, "since your set on using ole mutt over there, having someone able to take hits even if not the fastest would make a nice balance."
"I guess that makes sense," he shrugged, "so Houndoom and Lapras... we still need one more."
"Well the obvious choice would be a ground type to handle that Electabuzz," Pikachu suggested, "or a grass type. I mean, it's not like Meganium would back down if having to face a fire type."
"It doesn't help that I have two ground types, Phanpy is way too young to properly try now and Sandslash is way to brutal," he explained, "even if he wouldn't go off book, he never would show restraint in battle."
"No. No, he wouldn't," Pikachu agreed, "but hey, at least we'd make it through. I can't see Paul or any of the others worrying about overpowering opponents."
"Maybe not," Ash sighed, "but if I just do what he does then it would only prove his methods correct. Every Pokémon can be strong, and I want everyone to have a chance to prove that."
"But not everyone can be used in one battle," Pikachu finished the sentiment.
A door opened across the room and he looked up to see Serena walking in. She was dressed in grey jogging bottoms and a sports shirt, with a white bag seeming to hold her normal travelling clothes in. She smiled at his direction and tossed the bag down before walking over. She had Sylveon and Quilava out with her, and Pikachu jumped down to go and meet the fairy type. Taking out one of the Pokéballs from his nearby backpack, he released his Houndoom who he figured would want to see his girlfriend as well.
"Hey," she greeted, taking a seat on his lap. She wrapped her arms around him and laid her head on his shoulder, as he wrapped his arms around her, "so whatcha doing?"
"Just trying to work out who to use against Macy tomorrow," Ash replied, "so far decided on Houndoom and Lapras but that Electabuzz is the worrying one. I want to go with a ground type but Phanpy's too young and Sandslash... well he's Sandslash and I doubt Macy could handle him in full motion."
"Well, why not use Tauros?" she reasoned, "he may not be a ground type, but he might as well be and while he's experienced, he's not a complete powerhouse like Dragonite or Aerodactyl."
"Tauros?" he mused, "I guess that would work. Houndoom, Lapras and Tauros... yeah, that's a good, well balanced team."
She leaned over to the computer and filled out the three empty slots for his team. While he needs to register his intended team, luckily his opponent won't be able to see it, but he still needs to tell them who he's gonna use. As she hit enter, she turned back and snuggled into him, kissing his cheek.
"So that performance was what you've been doing the last couple of days?" he asked.
"Yeah," she snuggled into him more, "getting to learn more about them from the Kalos queen was really great. I feel more confident than ever about competing in them when we travel through Hoenn."
"Well you did a great job tonight," Ash praised, "everyone loved you up there."
"I'm glad you thought so," she continued to kiss him along the cheek until reaching his lips. She placed a few long, delicate kisses on him before pulling back and relaxing into his embrace, "and now we've sorted out who you'll use tomorrow, let's go watch the highlight show for the preliminary matches."
"Don't you wanna change into your nightwear first?" he asked.
"No, I'm too tired," she yawned, "I just want to lie down, cuddle and watch you win some battles."
Getting the point, he stood up, with her leaning heavily on him. He carefully led them over to the bed where he cautiously sat down with her following. He shuffled back under the covers as Serena grabbed the television remote. Flicking through the channels, she quickly found the one she was looking for and left it playing... surprisingly, it seemed to be one of Harrison's battles where he used a Kecleon to face an Misdreavus.
"Hehehe, I guess my battles aren't showing yet," he chuckled nervously, as he felt his girlfriend shuffle around trying to get comfortable. After seeing her in that stage outfit, he needed to take a long cold shower and he certainly hoped her show off affection right now wouldn't result in the same.
"Don't worry, I can think off a way to pass the time until they do play your battles," she whispered.
Grabbing onto his pyjama top, she locked lips and pulled him on top of her as she rolled underneath. He felt her hands run up and down his back as he tried to enter the normal rhythm for their affection moments. The last few days they have hardly seen each other so it's nice to have this little moment with each other.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...
