Pokémon Journey: Kalos Quest

Hey guys Paradox here and welcome to Chapter 65 and Chapter 22 of the Kalos Quest. We are back with the group as they finally arrive in Laverre City. Expect some lean,sweet,cute scenes and maybe a couple of knocks if you know what I mean. Well,enjoy the show.


"Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury."- Coco Chanel


Chapter 65: That Sweet Luxury Life

Finally,after what appears to have been a long nine day walk from Lumiose City,the gang finally arrived in Laverre City. "We made it. Laverre City." Serena gasped happily. "Otherwise known as the City of Otherworldly Dreams." Clemont pointed out.

"I think I see what you mean. This place is very colorful." Ash said he saw the pink and colorful leaves floating in the air like an autumn nature. Rene of course looked around the area. This has always been one of her favorite places because of its natural beauty. But back then were always time of work and no play.

"So Ash,you ready for your Gym Battle?" Bonnie asked. "Yep,I'm pumped and ready for action." Ash said flexing his biceps. "Try not to push yourself. You won't know what will slap you across the face when you see it." Rene said. "I'm excited too,I finally get to meet Valerie." Serena said. "Who's Valerie?" Ash asked. "What? You don't know who Valerie?!" Serena asked Ash loudly,scaring him.

"Honey,if you remember,I don't know that many people in Kalos." Ash rosed his hands in defense. "Oh,I forgot. Sorry Sweetie." Serena lightly hugged Ash. "Ash,aside from Diantha,Valerie is the most top fashion designer in Kalos." Said Rene. "Here check for yourself." Serena opened her tablet to relay information about the lady behind it all. "Before she came with her own clothing line. She was once a model back in Unova until taking all that she learn back to Kalos. Her clothes are top grade,stylish,every girl in Kalos wants one and I do too." Serena said.

Ash took a closer to see that Valerie wasn't your average woman. With black long hair that goes to her knees,big wide purplish eyes,fair skin tone,and just like Diantha her outfit is anything but ordinary. Purple hair pins that were strap with string tendrils gave the illusion of Audino ears. Her body outfit was clearly unique and colorful. A high design of own absolutely. A spliced kimono with a gothic lolita style wear,the long sleeves gave a butterfly appearance with pink mist patterns followed by cream color on the lower part and fianlly tipped off with black. She also wore a pale yellow corset,a short,puffy skirt mixed with yellow,purple and black patterns along with frilly ends. Lastly we're long black socks with renaissance flairs strap to to her thighs,and black high heel shoes with pink soles laced with ribbions.

"On top of that Ash,she's also the Gym Leader here." Rene topped it off. "Well you had me at Gym Leader,so where's her Gym?" Ash asked. "Over there,right where that big tree is." Rene pointed to where a huge tree rested in its autumn years. Ash whistled at the maval. "Wow,that's gotta be the second largest tree in Kalos." Ash said. "You're not wrong there." Rene said as the group then preceded to walk to the gym.

Outside the gym,the gang noticed that outside it was getting very packed as if people were expecting something. Nonetheless,they walked to the door and opened it. Inside they saw a bunch of people going frantic. Girl rushing with boxes in their arms,girls turning other to hurry. "Hurry,hurry!" "I know,I know." "Quickly we need these boxes of clothes over backstage!" Shouted one girl.

"Uhh...what's going on?" Clemont asked steadying his glasses. "Wow,they're all wearing Valerie's clothes." Serena said as each girl wore a different pattern of dress. "I'm guessing some event is happening." Ash said. "What do you mean the Gym Leader isn't available?!"

The group looked at the front desk to see one of the girls in her costume and a discouraged trainer standing across from her. "I'm sorry but the Gym is close for today's fashion show." The lady said,leaving the trainer dissatisfied. "I gonna find out about that guys." Ash said. "Wait...where's Bonnie." Serena asked as everyone realized that the little eight year old girl gone missing.

"Wow,you're all keepers! Can you please take care of my brother?" Bonnie was proposing to a group of girls working at the end of the room. "AGGGHHHH I TOLD TO STOP DOING THAT!" Clemont then rushed over to her. "O..Kay,while Clemont handles that business,lets go to the desk." Ash said as Serena and Rene agreed.

"Oh and to think I've traveled all the way over here to finally get that battle." The trainer said. "Wait,excuse me Ma'am did you say that the Gym is close?" Ash ran over. "Yes sir,I'm sorry we are extremely busy for today's event." The lady said. "Oh well,guess I'll have to do so tomorrow." Ash said. "I guess I'll have to do the same thing..say you look familiar." The trainer asked. Ash grew worried that then,this has been the first time in civilization since Lumiose City and he knew people would recognize him if they tried.

"Uh..no,no I don't." Ash said. "Actually he's right,you do look familiar." The lady across the desk said. "No I do not." Ash slightly rose his voice deniing it. "Look,I told you to stop doing that a million times!" The gang looked to see Clemont walking back with Bonnie hanging off his Aipom Arm. "Come on Clemont. I think that blond lady in the Audino dress was interested...oh hey Ash,are you gonna have that battle?" Bonnie suddenly asked leaving the trainer and the lady shocked.

"Gee...thank you Bonnie. Thank you very much." Ash grinned fakely at the little girl,leaving Clemont abit scared and Bonnie clueless. "Wait,you're Ash Ketchum!" The lady said,now everyone in the room stopped and stared at the boy widely. "Uhh...and to think all I wanted was a Gym Battle." Ash whined now that the secret was exposed.


After embarrassingly and trying to handle the situation,Ash,the gang,and the new trainer sat at a bench inside the Gym's personal store. A few models tried to give Ash their number and that was enough for Serena to drag Ash out of the room with a group of girls at least trying to touch him as if he's some kind of god on earth. The lady felt sympathy and got all the girls back on track while the group slipped into the Gym's personal store where many dresses were on display.

Which brings to now.

Ash sat there glum,knowing that people know who he is and smelling like girl perfume. "Umm,I'm really sorry..uh Mr. Ketchum." The green haired trainer said. "Just call me Ash,okay...um I'm sorry?" Ash asked as he finally looked at the boy next to him. Probably two years younger then him,he had short green hair,dark tan skin,amen blue eyes. As for appearance he wore a white shirt with an orange tie,a dark green vest with yellow buttons with a pocket at its left side,brown short pants with big pockets,black under jeans and green shoes. He also carried a brown backpack and a notebook hanging out of his vest pocket.

"Oh sorry,I'm Sawyer." He introduced himself. "Right,I remember you. You challenged the Lumiose Gym two weeks back." Clemont remember this trainer. "Right,you're Clemont of the Lumiose Gym. It's great to see you but who's watching the Gym if you're gone?" Sawyer asked. "Oh my trusty assistant Clembot is handling that while I travel with Ash." Clemont said. "Right,and this Rene and my girlfriend Serena." Ash introduced the others. "Wow your girlfriend is pretty." Sawyer awed which Ash gave him an agitated look.

"And that's why she's with you?" Sawyer cringed at Ash's look. "I'm sorry?" Sawyer tried that. "That's better." Ash calmed down. "Well,I been meaning to look at the clothes here at this store. Maybe I can buy one for my next Showcase." Serena said. "I'll come with you." Bonnie joined. "What about you Rene?" Serena asked. "Well...as long as I don't try anything on I suppose it's fine." Rene went ahead to join the girls,leaving the boys on the bench.

"Shame I couldn't have that Gym Battle." Sawyer said. "Me too,so how long have you been on your journey." Ash asked. "Oh I've been on my journey for six months. I've gotten my starter from Hoenn and I've traveled there for a two months until I took a cruise to Kalos." Sawyer explained. "Incredible,so if you're challenging the gyms here. You must be interested in competing in the Kalos League." Ash said. "Right,but so far I only have two badges." Sawyer said as he showed his only badges from the Santalune Gym and the Cyllage Gym.

"How many badges do you have?" Sawyer asked. "I have five." Ash showed Sawyer his badge case. "Incredible,I wish I have that many." Sawyer said. "But two badges in four months,that's not bad either." Ash said. "Incredible,so...even though neither of us can't have our next gym battle and as a way of apology for getting you flocked by a bunch of pretty girls,how about we have a battle?" Sawyer offered. "Really? Well I could enjoy a battle or two." Ash said. "Then how about a Double Battle?" Sawyer asked. "Okay I'm in." Ash agreed as they stood up.

"Awesome,I get to have a battle with the hero of Kalos." Sawyer awed. "One condition." Ash turned around. "Yes?" Sawyer asked. "Don't call me that. Just Ash is fine." Ash said. "Oh,yea sure...Ash." Sawyer said embarrassed.

On the battlefield,Sawyer and Ash stood against each other on the field. "Alright meet my Pokémon." Sawyer said as he unleashed a Bagon first and his last one is a young Treecko. "So a Bagon and a Treecko." Ash said as he took out his pokedex.

"Bagon,The Rock Head Pokémon,its well-developed neck muscles are ironlike head can smash boulders into pieces."

"Treecko,The Wood Gecko Pokémon,Small hooks on the bottom of its feets catch on walls and ceilings,allowing it to hang onto any surface."

"Alright,my partners will be Hawlucha,and Frogadier." Ash released the Wrestling and Bubble Frog Pokémon. "I'll act as referee." Clemont stood at the ref box. "Alright the battle between Ash and Sawyer may now begin." Clemont raised his hand.


Ash vs. Sawyer,Double Battle: two on two

"I'll kick things off. Bagon,head on with Fire Fang on Hawlucha,Treecko cover him with Bullet Seed." Bagon moved in with fiery teeth while Treecko provided cover fire. Being at a long distance,Ash had many tatics to avoid this.

"You two,up in the air." Hawluchu took a big leap and began to glide while Frogadier lightly rode him to avoid the attacks. "What?" Sawyer wasn't expecting this. "Now we go on offense. Frogadier,Aerial Ace on Treecko. Hawlucha,use Karate Chop on Bagon." Dropping downwards,Frogadier brought a thundering kick straight at Treecko,causing super effective damage. Hawlucha brought up the rear with a straight slap chop right on Bagon's stone hard cranium,causing low damage and Hawlucha felt abit hurt from that blow.

"Wow,guess Bagon's head is that hard." Ash said. "Takes practice,now try this,Bagon use Dragon Breath,Treecko use Bullet Seed." Both Pokémon fired their from a fair distance,closing in on their targets. "Hawlucha,somersault dive and go into Flying Press on Bagon,Frogadier deflect that Bullet Seed with Cut." Hawlucha did a running start before doing a high spinning somersault to avoid the Dragon Breath and fianlly going into a free dive that added momentum to his Flying Press and striking his target. As the Bullet Seed was coming and with quick reflexes,Frogadier used his white blade to slice every single Bullet Seed that was coming,surprising both Sawyer and Treecko.

"Wow,that's gotta be the most awesome thing I've ever seen." Sawyer said. "It's important to always use the Pokémon natural talents in combination with their moves." Ash said. Sawyer was happy for the advice and happily took out his notebook to make a note. "Uhhh,Sawyer?" Ash asked Sawyer in confusion. "Huh...oh,this notebook carries all the battle techniques and advices I've ever learn." Sawyer said. "Oh okay." Ash understood.

Back in the store

"Wow,that dress would really make your eyes pop." Rene said as she saw a red kimono on display under its spotlight. "Really,because I'm positive about this blue one though." Serena said as she pointed to a similar one in blue. "Nah,red is your color and you're not saying about the blue one just because its Ash's favorite color." Rene asked. "Okay,I'll just ask Ash which one is better." Serena said as she turned around to see her boyfriend no longer sitting at the bench.

"Hey,where's Ash?" Serena asked while the three girls looked around for the boys. "Serena,found them." Bonnie pointed outside to the outer patio where Ash was currently in a battle. "Right,of course Ash would be in the middle of a battle." Serena smiled lightly at her boyfriend's attics. "Boys will be boys Serena. Besides he does need the practice for his Gym Battle." Said Rene. "I suspose. What do you say we finish this another time to join them?" Serena asked as the two girls agreed until they were cut short.

"Excuse us." They turn around to see two girls in their costumes. "Can we help you?" Serena asked. "You're right Lilly,you three are of absolute specifications. You guys wouldn't mind coming with us right?" One of the girls asked. Wondering what could they want with them,the girls figured whatever these girls wanted must be important. Rene felt skeptical on her own whim. She knew what these girls were asking and it wasn't her concern anymore.

Back to the Battle.

"Alright,try this,Hawlucha try out your new trick and use X-Scissor on Bagon. Frogadier,give him a shove." Grabbing his feet,Frogadier spun Hawlucha 360* to build velocity. He finally let go and the speeding bullet crossed his arms in an X motion that unleash purple energy through his arms. Sawyer and Bagon were shocked at Ash's unorthodox tactics but by then it was too late.

A straight shot sent Bagon flying back and unable to battle. "Bagon...you did well take a nice rest." Sawyer said as he returned Bagon to its pokeball. "That was surprising. But I'm not done yet,Treecko use Bullet Seed." Treecko fired at a much more rapid spread at the two. "Frogadier,defend and attack with Cut." Frogadeir then charged with two white blades in hand and deflected each shot that was coming to his range and then finally at blinding speed faster than the eye could track,Frogadeir then a double slash and Treecko noticed now Frogadeir was behind him now before then exploding.

When the smoke dispersed,Treecko was left fainted.


"Ohh,guess that's it. You did good Treecko." Sawyer said. "Wait before you return Treecko,bring out Bagon." Ash said as Sawyer followed instructions. Bagon was alright but wounded and worn out. "Use these to heal them." Ash gave Sawyer two Super Potions to treat Treecko and Bagon. "I'll treat them for you Sawyer." Clemont offered as Sawyer nodded.

"Wow Ash that was some complex battling." Sawyer said. "Whether in a single or double battle,improvisement can be valuable asset. It allows to always adapt to your opponent's strategy." Said Ash as Sawyer was excited at all the notes he was taking. "So half of the battle was adapting but there was also...something else." Sawyer asked. "Analysis and instincts. I've never learned that it would be possible until a few months back,but I'm still learning all the tricks myself." Ash said as Sawyer continued to take notes.

"Okay Sawyer,they're both set." Clemont finished. "Thanks so much Clemont. They look like they're ready for action again." Sawyer said until something suddenly rang. The boys and their Pokémon turn to hear whistles being blown and music playing. On the edge of the Western side of the field,they look over to see a crowd of people surrounding a runway.

"Wow,I wonder what that's all about." Sawyer asked. "Must be that event Rene mentioned. I'd say let's go down there." Clemont said. "Hopefully the girls are down there as well if it involves clothing." Ash agreed as they went down there via the outer stairs.

The girls were still following the two models that lead them to inner courtyard. Inside one of the rooms,Valerie laid on the ground in sadness with her Pokémon surrounding her. Today was suppose to be perfect,go perfect. But now this? Three of her models suddenly got sick from food poisoning after eating bad Thai food. "It could've been worse" she wondered but now,everything was jeopardized.

"I don't know how are we gonna manage this." Valerie said. With her was her Sylveon,Spritzee,Mawile,and Mr. Mime supporting her,Sylveon spoke her gentle feelings and how things will look up. Valerie smiled and spoke in Sylveon tongue,a rare skill she had since she was a child and through some unknown factor,she could only do so with only Fairy type Pokémon.

"Excuse me Ma'am,may we come in?" Valerie heard one of her girls from outside. Hopefully it's good news. "Yes,come inside." Valerie permitted. In came,five girls including her two models. "Miss Valerie,these three appear to be up to specifications." Said one of the girls. Valerie looked at the three,one child,one young teenage and the last...a very familiar lady,she smile. "Yes,they'll be perfect." Valerie smiled happily.

"Pardon me but what do you mean up to specifications?" Serena asked. "I think I know what she means...Valerie." Rene stepped up. "Hello Rene,I see you're in great health since I last saw you." Valerie shocked her hand. "Wait you two know each other?" Bonnie asked. "A while back but that's done and over with." Rene grunted,feeling her old life was now coming back. "So what do you want with us?" Serena asked.

"I have a proposal for you three. Unfortunately three of my models have fallen ill and thus this jeopardizes the entire fashion show today." Valerie said. "So that's what today's event is." Serena said. "Yes,today is of our Autumn nature clothing line and today's presentation. But as for you three,I ask of you to replace the three models who got sick?" Valerie asked. Serena and Bonnie were glad to help as Bonnie was excited. Rene however seem uninterested.

"Guys,could you actually...give us a minute?" Rene asked. The girls wondered why until Valerie nodded her head,letting her and Rene have their space. When the two were alone they both spoke. "Valerie,I've never agreed to this." Rene said. "I understand,but I only wish to understand your reasoning to why?" Valerie asked. "They're personal...Valerie you're one of my closest friends. Even from back then,you always listen to my concerns. But this is something that I've moved on." Rene said.

"Does this have something to do with that man in Lumiose City?" Valerie asked as Rene probed her mind to see she was talking about Drake. "Uhh...sort of...but this has long started before Drake came into my life." Rene asked. "So you do know him and the other. The Two Heros of Kalos?" Valerie interests peaked. "Valerie...don't change the subject." Rene argued as Valerie's Sylveon spoke out to her in an almost crying tone.

"My Sylveon said" "I know what she said Valerie. She implores me to see the importance of today's event." Rene said. "Impressive,do you speak to Pokémon as well." Valerie asked. "I've learn a few tricks...*sigh* okay,I'll help you,but just this once." Rene agreed. "Thank you my friend. Come,we must get to the stage." Valerie said as she lead everyone out.

In the crowd,Ash,Clemont and Sawyer wondered what was going on. "Excuse me,but what's happening here." Ash asked a lady. "Haven't you heard? Today Gym Leader Valerie presents her new Autumn Nature Clothing line." She said as they noticed the festivities were now beginning.

"Welcome one and all. Here we all bask in the beauty of autumn and Pokémon. Before your eyes you'll see the beautiful colors and patterns presented. Now we commerce." Said one of the girls as a model in a Sylveon kimono walked down the runway,presenting the beauty to the world.

Overtime more and more models ran down the runway presenting Valerie's costumes. "Wow this stuff sure seems popular." Said Ash. "You're telling me." Sawyer as he saw a brunette in a Swanna kimono suddenly turned and winked in his direction. "Oh,oh,guys guys. Did you see that? She winked at me!" Sawyer said excitedly. "Uhh Sawyer? It's not you she's looking at." Ash said as he noticed that the model was one of the ones from earlier who tried to give him her number. Ash cringed nervously as she blew him a kiss,if Serena was here..she would care less at trying to be discreet and he be more worried about escalation.

After another eight minutes,the boys wondered where the girls were. No way they can't afford to miss this. "I'm really worried where Bonnie is." Said Clemont. "And Serena and Rene. Those two wouldn't miss this for the world." Ash said. "If you guys want we could look around." Sawyer offered.

"And now present the outfits to represent the beauty of Florges and Chingling." The announcer said as two girls came out in their outfits. Bonnie smiled widely in her Chingling outfit,but Serena started having last minute jitters and couldn't back out anymore. Now trying to keep a straight face and her nerves in check,Serena did her best as she tried to look sophisticated.

The boys look up to see a surprising look. "SERENA?!/BONNIE!" Ash and Clemont's eyes nearly popped out. "Hey Ash,Clemont,Sawyer." Bonnie said happily while was Serena was abit embarrassed. She didn't tell Ash what she was doing. "What in the heck are you doing?!" Clemont asked. (Clemont's exact words in the anime) "duh,I'm modeling obviously." Bonnie said. "Yes I know that but WHY are you modeling?" Clemont asked. But before she could answer,Sawyer interrupted.

"So wait wait,Ash,you're a national hero who's traveling with a Gym Leader and two models. One who is your girlfriend...man! I am so envious of you!" Sawyer said with total envy. "Uhh Sawyer,that's not what happening." Ash said as he turned to Serena. "Ser..uh.. ..uh." Ash could only spew as to take Serena and her new outfit was just a mind blower. "Uh Ash,breath and use your words." Clement said.

"Uh right,Serena? What's going on?" Ash asked shyly. "Well three of the models got food poisoning and they asked us to replace them." Serena shugged. "Wait,who's us?" Ash asked. "Trust us guys,just wait until the outfit they put Rene in." Bonnie said. "Rene's in on this too?!" Ash asked surprised.

"And now for our lechef-d'œuvre,Miss Valerie's leading outfit will now be displayed. Not only is this outfit being present but the model presenting it is an legend throughout the industry. Now,presenting the beauty and nature of Delphox,please welcome Rene Rodriguez!" She said. Right away the group turn to see shocking turn as the crowd roared in excited. The group however was very confused,Rene,a legend?

Rene finally appeared in a long Deplox kimono with her hair wrapped in a Japanese bun with a twig sticking out the top to represent Delphox's stick,makeup applied and black heel on,Rene stood at the end. "Wow,I really have forgotten what this was like...okay,remember,just wave and smile,wave and smile. You're not doing this for enjoyment,you're doing for Valerie just Valerie." Rene said to herself as she slap a smile to her face,began walking and started waving. Along the middle Serena and Bonnie continued to still stare at her as one of the girls backstage signal them back.

On the runway,Rene worked the crowd in presenting the elegance of Delphox. "So...that's three models you're traveling with." Sawyer said. "Uhh..huh." Ash muttered as he was still confused as Rene then walked backstage. "Alright,give a nice big to all of ours models." The announcer said a an encore roared. "Now we'll take a five minute break before going to our final event of the evening."

Three of those five minutes the girls had already returned in their original attire. "Hey guys." Rene said. "We're not done with what you did." Clemont scowled Bonnie. "Take it easy Clemont. She had fun." Rene said. Meanwhile Ash and Serena had their moment. "You know,you looked beautiful in that dress." Ash smiled. "You really think so?" Serena blushed. Ash only kissed the side of her cheek in response.

At last the announcer came back to stage. "Now for the final event,but to explain it all,the genius behind the mask,please welcome Miss Valerie!" The announcer said as the Laverre Gym Leader stepped from the shadows. The crowd cheered as Valerie took the stage.

"Here we see the beauty and belief of one could always look their best even in Pokémon battles. That is why to end today's event,one of you in the audience will have the privilege of battling me here and now for an official Gym Badge." Valerie announced causing the crowd to cheer.

Ash meanwhile cringed at this,while he did come to Laverre City for a Gym Battle,he didn't want to make a spectacle of himself in front of all these people who still claim him as some sort of deity. Especially since earlier in the day when got attacked by a bunch of models. (Which of course might be any guy's dream. Just not for Ash.)

"Shit! I have to hide." Ash muttered so only the group could hear. "Why,it's gonna be fine." Bonnie said. "No it's not! Valerie gonna choose someone to battle her in front of all these people and I have no doubt I'll be picked." Ash said. "Guys I don't know what you gonna do but the girls on stage are looking to pick someone." Said Rene as the group saw two of the models fishing. "I'm gonna duck so that they can't find me." Ash did as he said. "Ash don't,it'll be fine." Rene said. "Too late." Ash whispered while he hid beneath the crowd.

The girl from the front desk scoured the crowd hoping to find that one boy with the red cap. At last she found his friends but the boy was nowhere in sight,knowing that this is a perfect opportunity for a Gym Badge. Giving up on the boy,she spotted the other boy with green hair who also wanted a Gym Battle. Figured a good replacement,she went to tell Valerie.

After a narrow search,Valerie finally selected. "Okay...you,in the green hair. I choose you to be my battle opponent." Valerie said as a spotlight shined on Sawyer. "Me?" Sawyer said surprised. "Do it Sawyer,you'll finally get your next gym badge." Said Bonnie. "I agree as well. You could gain more experience from this." Rene said Sawyer then looked at the crouching Ash as he nodded yes with confidence.

Sawyer smiled then climbed on top of the runway. "We will commerce our battle here." Valerie said as she rose her arms in a slow elegant fashion. "Is this what she meant by battling while looking your best?" Serena asked. "That's always been her philosophy." Rene said.

Valerie then unleash a pokeball from her left wing and out came a Spritzee. "Alright I'm ready. Bagon come on out." Sawyer said as he unleashed the Rock Head Pokémon. "Very well,let the battle begin." Said one of the girls


Sawyer vs. Valerie: one on one

With this matchup it appears to be very one sided as a few people in the crowd chuckled at an already amateur mistake. "Oh no,this isn't good." Clemont said. When the battle started,Ash felt it was safe to get back on. "Wait do you mean Clemo-...oh no...that's trouble." Ash said as he finally saw Sawyer's situation.

"We'll make the first move. Bagon use Dragon Breath." Bagon jumped and fired a purple blast of energy at the hovering Pokémon. It only stayed there as Valerie only chuckled at the cute effort of her opponent. The blast struck its adversity but it appears there was no effect. "Huh,what!" Sawyer noticed.

"Sawyer,Dragon type moves have no effect on Fairy types." Clemont yelled. "What?!" Sawyer turned. "Also Dragon types are weak against Fairys." Ash commented. "WHAT?!" Sawyer said as he now realized what he did. The battle just started and he already put himself in a corner. "Alright let's try something else. Use Headbutt." Bagon rushed his opponent and tried to use its head.

"Dodge please." Spritzee nodded as she zoomed around in the air to avoid Bagon's head bashing. "Alright use Fire Fang." Bagon then tried to attack with with fiery fangs. But under a graceful pose,Valerie went on the offensive. "Use Dazzling Gleam." Spritzee then shined brightly that it engulfed Bagon as it neared it. The light show presented sparkles that the crowd ohhed and ahhed that it.

When the light dimmed,Spritzee was fine and Bagon lied on the floor fainted. "Bagon is unable to battle. Spritzee wins and the match goes to Miss Valerie." Said the lady in the middle.


Sawyer sighed as he returned Bagon. "You did great buddy." Sawyer spoke to the pokeball in his hand. "Thank you for battling me. I'll return soon better then before." Sawyer as Valerie nodded and walked back. As Valerie walked back,Ash would remembered this experience,and started thinking tactics. Valerie was unique and not one to pull punches. Hopefully tomorrow he'll come out on top.

"Thank you one and all for being part of this wonderful event. Until next time,Au Revoir." The lady said as she retreated backstage and everyone started to clear out. Sawyer meanwhile,got off stage to join the group. "Man,I've really botched that up." Sawyer said. "There's always next time Sawyer." Clemont said. "You're right,and Ash. You're battling tomorrow." Sawyer said. "I am,and hopefully I'll get my sixth badge." Ash said in determination.

"Well,can I watch you tomorrow? I've learned so much from you and I'm inching to learn more." Sawyer asked. "Sure Sawyer,I got no problem with that." Ash agreed. "So who wants to go to the Pokémon Center for dinner?" Clemont asked as Ash's hand sprang up. "Before we do that,we got to sign out from the lobby just to be clear." Rene said as she took Serena and Bonnie with her.

Six minutes later,the gang was all set and prepared to leave through the front doors until someone stopped them. They turn to see Valerie and three of her helpers right behind them. "Hey Val. I thought we settled our agreement." Rene spoke. "You did,but I only wish to bear a few things to you. First to Serena,I've noticed you are a performer,and it'll do you wonders to have this." Valerie signaled one of her helpers as she brought Serena the Florges kimono. Serena gasped as she was bestowed this gift.

"This is for me?" Serena asked. "Yes,as thanks for helping us save this fashion show." Valerie said. "Now for you." Valerie pointed to Ash. "I'll be extremely honored to be your battling opponent tomorrow." Valerie bowed before him. "The honor is yours Valerie." Ash said.

"And now my old friend." Valerie turned her attention to Rene. "I'll be delighted to give you this." Valerie said as another helper brought Rene the Delphox kimono she wore. "Thanks for the appreciation Val. But I can't accept." Rene declined. "Surely you'll need it Rene,you always have an enjoyment for these things." Said Valerie.

"That's was some time ago Valerie. Unfortunately I have no need of things that I've once buried." Rene said. "Such things Rene are luxury some people are lucky to have." Valerie explained. "Maybe...but then again,a luxury's nature is soothing and comfortable for those who desire it. If neither requirement is fulfilled,then it's no longer luxury Val." Rene explained as Valerie's expression saddened.

"Please old friend." Rene took Valerie's hands in hers. "If there's anything luxurious for me. It's for this dress to fulfilling in another girl's hands. Even if you must sell it yourself,you get to decide if there's a young woman who could really bring the elegance of this dress out." Rene said as Valerie's mood brighten a bit. "You really seem well educated now." She said. "Like I said,I've learn a few tricks." Rene said. "If that's how you really feel. I'll respect your request." Valerie said. "Thanks old friend,I'll see you tomorrow for Ash's battle." Rene said as they both shared a hug.

After leaving and walking to the Pokémon Center,the group decided to break the ice to Rene.

"So...you were a former model?" Ash asked.

"Those people called you a legend?" Serena asked.

"Your last name is Rodriguez?" Clemont asked as that question rose suspicion when the group looked at Clemont confused.

Rene sighed as she knew she couldn't avoid this. "*sigh* yes,yes,and yes Clemont. My last name is Rodriguez." Rene said. "So you said couldn't do that anymore." Ash asked. "Not couldn't. I chose to walk away from that. From everything." Rene said. "What do you mean?" Serena asked.

"Guys...alright,I have a confession." Rene said as she stopped walking. "Before becoming an Aura Guardian,I was once a former Pokémon Performer." Rene confessed as the group was surprised. A secret was now out. "So you were a Performer and a model?" Bonnie asked. "Yes...but like I said back at the gym. There are such luxuries in this world that would get worn down over time,and the next thing you realize as all these things...no longer make you happy." Rene sadden.

"Care to explain?" Ash asked. "No,because I really don't want to talk about it. Let's just get to the Pokémon Center." Rene said as she started walking alone. The group felt sympathy for Rene,if she really didn't want to talk about her past,it must've been hard. "I hope she's alright." Serena said as this peaked her interest. "Just seeing her like this reminds me of Drake...now I'm wondering how Drake's faring now." Ash said as he was in deep thought.

"Drake's strong Ash,I'm sure he'll return someday." Clemont said. "Who's Drake?" Sawyer asked. The group figured to explain things to Sawyer,and Ash wound up doing most of the talking as they walked to the Pokémon Center.


During the night as Serena and Ash got their own room and were going to bed,Ash was brushing his teeth while Serena was caring for her egg. Ash came to noticed this. "Oh right,today was so busy that I forgot you had a Pokémon egg with you." Ash said. "I nearly did too." Serena said as she was cleaning the egg with a tissue until suddenly the egg began to wobble and then glow suddenly.

"Ash,Ash! Look it's glowing. It's finally glowing!" Serena cried happily as Ash sat next to her. "That means it won't be longer now." Ash said as the happy couple embraced each other,both think this has been quite an eventful day. Now Ash will compete for his sixth gym tomorrow as the Journey continues.


Done,well guys this chapter has been plentiful. Sawyer's introduction,meeting Valerie,and two original pieces; Ash's popularity,and foreshadowing Rene's past. Now Serena's egg comes near its birth as you'll find which Pokémon will hatch.

Now next chapter will traveling back across the world to Drake's final steps into his Solace. So like,comment what you enjoyed and thanks for reading. This is Paradox signing off. Goodbye.