Pokémon Journey: XYZ

Hey guys Paradox here and welcome to Chapter 102 and Chapter 19 of XYZ. Now we reach part two of the Master Class, the grand moment has arrived. With stakes at high levels, only one maiden will go down in history and hold the vessel of victory. The only thing I can say about this chapter is: don't expect the first thing you're thinking of.

So..let's end this.


"A woman knows by intuition, or instinct, what is best for herself."- Marilyn Monroe


Chapter 102: Artemis

The three girls walk down the stairs smiling as the audience gave them attention. "These three maidens have now succeeded to the Semifinals. In this round, each performer will have the use of two Pokémon, and the best of these three will succeed to the finals to challenge Aria for the Kalos Tiara.

"That will be me of course." Amelia whispered not for Pierre to hear but for her competition to listen. Serena and Shauna growled to themselves at Amelia's arrogance and tried to remember the promise they made to each other. The best of them must beat Amelia to challenge Aria. "The first to compete will be Performer Amelia." Pierre said as Serena and Shauna retreated back understage. To save time, Serena and Shauna were directly understage rather then the dressing room.


Semifinal Round: Amelia

Amelia with her Espeon and Dragonair smirked as now they do nothing less than their best today. "Alright Espeon use Psychic." With Psychic, Espeon lifted Dragonair in the air and Spin Hernandez around the stage. "Use Ice Beam." In a different variation rather than a beam, Dragonair sprinkles baby blue sparkles in the air while Amelia pose elegantly.

Amelia smile as the crowd was eating this up. "This is just the appetizer." Amelia smiled. "Use Dragon Dance." Amelia said as sat on Dragonair's body. The blue snake flew around the same while spraying pink sparkles. Amelia then jumps off doing a triple flip in the process.

Landing on her feet, Amelia calls to action. "Espeon use Psychic." In an unusual sense, Espeon first jump high then tuck its body in order to bite down on its tail, forming a perfect circle of itself. With Psychic Espeon began levitating in the air while spinning. Dragonair joined in by conjoining its body to Espeon and follows an outline of Espeon's spin.

"Now Attract." With the spinning duo, both Pokémon expels hearts everywhere rapidly, wowing the crowd. Both Pokémon then dislodge and landed on each side of their trainer.

"That's it!" Amelia cheered as the audience gave an encore. "Thank you Amelia. Up next is Performer Shauna." Pierre said.

The stage retreated down as Serena and Shauna saw Amelia smirking at them. "Top that girly girls." She boasted causing Serena and Shauna to scowl at her. "Break a leg Shauna." Serena said. "She means it literally little girl." Amelia butts in. "Who asked you!?" Serena shouted. Shauna didn't pay mind to Amelia as the stage rose up.

"Please give a round of applause to Performer Shauna." Pierre introduced as the stage rose revealing Shauna with her Ivysaur and Flabebe.


Semifinal Round: Shauna

"Let's go. Ivysaur Use Vine Whip. Flabebe use Fairy Wind." Flabebe began spraying a pink mist while Ivysaur use her vines to carry Shauna around as Flabebe spray mist to form a perfect circle. Ivysaur's next step was then tossing Shauna in the air as the latter did a double spin and landing on her feet.

"Shauna on a roll." Nini said. "I agree though I wonder what Serena's got planned." Miette said as Nini could only look at her with a questionable look. "What?" Miette asked. "Is Serena the only thing you're thinking about?" Nini asked. "Wha-...okay, I hope they could still beat Amelia after all this." Miette said. "Huh, and I thought you were thinking about Ash." Nini said. "Well now you got me thinking of him!" Miette argues. "Okay, I'm sorry." Nini said. As soon as she turns away, Miette only smiles as she WAS thinking about Ash the whole time.

"Use Vine Whip." With a whip, Ivysaur stirs a wind funnel that carries the pink mist upward. Meanwhile Shauna dance and hops around as Ivysaur and Flabebe join on the fun. Palermo watched unamused and could only hope to see some dramatic change soon.

"Now the clincher. Flabebe use Moonblast. Ivysaur Solarbeam." Charging nature's power to one blast, Both Pokémon fired at each other's where both attacks merge and exploded into a spring form neutron blast of light colors, dazzling the crowd.

"Finish!" Shauna and her Pokémon pose as the audience cheers them on. "Thank you Shauna. Now let us prepare for our final performer." Pierre said.


Semifinal Round: Serena

"Let's give a round of applause to Performer Serena!" With a few minutes, the stage rose back up with Serena along with Pancham and Sylveon in tow. "Let's go!" Serena and her Pokémon jumped. "Sylveon use Swift." Sylveon nods and fires out several stars to the air that merge together to form one golden firework.

"There's that passion Serena shows." Ash said. "You mention Serena's got something planned for this round right?" Drake asked. "Oh it's a doozie, if she pulls it off it'll go down a treat." Rene spoke.

As Serena held Sylveon's feeder, Pancham flips over them in succession. "Pancham use Stone Edge." Pancham flips back and strikes the ground that cause six pillars that were differ in height and arched. "Sylveon use Fairy Wind." Climbing up the stone pillars like stairs, Sylveon jumps high looking downward and forms a strong pink whirlwind.

Serena and Pancham held hands as they were carried upward and spinning causing the crowd gasped at the act. "Is that what you were talking about?" Clemont asked. "Trick's not done yet." Rene smiled.

By the time they got to the top where Sylveon hovered, all three pose and the audience applauded. Going for the finale, Serena and her Pokémon were going to ground while rolling down. Slowing down at just three feet, Serena and her Pokémon use one hand (Sylveon just two feeders) but a situation has arise.

As Serena touched the ground with her arm, her wrist twisted uncomfortably causing Serena to wince in pain. Serena then felt her body starting to fall down as her Pokémon reacted. With quick thinking, Sylveon use her other two feeders to catch and flip her trainer forward and on her knees.

"Finish!" Serena acted quickly and smiled. The crowd seem to be clueless about the slight setback and gave an encore to Serena. "She perform amazing." Ash said. "I hope it's just enough." Drake said. Rene however was distracted at what Serena pulled off. "Serena was suspose to flip forward herself so why did Sylveon give her a hand?" She wondered.


"These three ladies have put on magnificent performance but now it's time to make a decision. Which one of these three fair ladies will succeed to challenge Aria for the Kalos Tiara? The decision is up to you." Pierre said. "Please take your Glow Sticks to cast your votes to who will succeed to the final round." Pierre said as everyone took the time to set their votes.

"Well little girls. End of the line." Amelia said. "Pride remember? It's your Achilles Heel." Serena said which Amelia scowls. "Ready everyone."

"1"

"2"

"3"

There all the Glow Balls compose of Yellow, Purple, and Pink now heading to their destination. There were many balls of all three colors which means this was gonna be close. After a few minutes of vote counting the time came. "It's time to introduce a winner to advance to the finals." Pierre said as Key Meters appeared and began filling. This was gonna be close.

"Now the winner to advance to the final round is." Pierre pause.

.

.

.

.

"Performer Serena!" Pierre yelled as the crowd joins in. Serena gasped and so did her Pokémon. At last they would head off and face Aria. Amelia had an even bigger shock look on her face and looked at the meters above. She didn't even place second, Shauna's meter pass her by one percent while Serena's was up by three percent. No thoughts came to her mind that she has suffer a defeat once more and by her no less.

Shauna shed some tears for her defeat but was overall happy for her best friend. "She did it. She did it!" Bonnie said. "Just one more hurdle." Ash said as he cross his fingers. "We will take a fifteen minute break. We'll be back with the final performance." Pierre said. "I'll be back." Rene stood up. "Gonna give Serena some last minute advance?" Drake asked. "Something like that." Rene said knowing something was wrong.


Serena was moved to a private room on the second floor with stain glass windows. She released her Pokémon as she plan to use all four of them in the finals. They sat down on a sofa as Serena took off her right glove to see her wrist red and swelling. She tried to flex it but only pain to come with it. "Well...that's not good." Serena said as her Pokémon looked worried.

Suddenly the door knocks and Serena hides her right hand behind her back. "Yes..yes come in." Serena called. The door opened to show Palermo and Aria all ready. "Oh Miss Yashio, Aria. I'm not ready yet." Serena said. "I just wanted to wish you luck Serena." Aria said. "She probably won't need it Aria. Show me your wrist child." Palermo called out.

"But..but how did you know?" Serena said. "I know when a performer is in trouble now come on. Out with it." Palmero said as Serena slowly drew her hand out of her back. "Serena your wrist." Aria gasped. "Yea, that finale I took kinda cost me." Serena smiled abit. "I say it cost you this Showcase. You can barely flex it. I'm sorry, but you'll have to forfeit." Palermo said shocking both girls.

"But Teacher." "Palmero I came this far for the Master Class, I'm not throwing in the towel now." Serena said. "It's not your decision." Palermo said. "I'll still perform even with one hand left." Serena argues. "It's out of your hands!" Palermo said. "It's not in yours either."

The girls turn to the door to see Rene standing there. "This floor is seal off. How'd you get here?" Palermo demanded. "I'm me and security here isn't that heavy." Rene said as she went over. "I knew it...Serena are you okay?" Rene worried. "No she isn't, she gonna." "I wasn't speaking to you! I was speaking to my student." Rene interrupted Palermo.

"I can still perform but I'll be at a disadvantage in this state." Serena said. "We could get a doctor here and treat it, but you'll still have to stay off that wrist." Aria suggested. "I have a better option." Rene said as she sat next to Serena and took her swelled wrist softy in both hands. "What are you planning?" Aria asked. "Don't worry, just watch." Rene said as she manifested her Aura to a blue glow, and have it heal Serena's wrist. Within a moment the swelling went down and the red patch was gone. Serena flex her wrist to have no more pain anymore.

"It's all healed!" Serena said happily. "How'd you do that?" Aria asked. "It's a good thing I had Drake teach me those minor healing techniques he knew." Rene said. "Big surprise." Palermo mocked. "Now, we can perform to our best." Serena said. "And you will. Come on, you still gotta get dressed." Rene said. "The outfit's in the dressing room. I'll get change and head to the stage." Serena said as she and her Pokémon stood up. "Don't forget, you'll be going first Miss Yvonne." Palermo said as Serena left.

Rene closed the door and sighed at the situation she was now in, between Serena and Palmero. That just left Aria and Palermo with her. "I hope you're proud." Palermo said. "I..I am proud. My student has made it here, like myself and Aria here." Rene said. "No, I meant I hope you're proud of your current life." Palmero said.

"Oh please." "No left me finish! You're living off a lamb and you're parading around Kalos like some Girl Scout." Palermo said. "I didn't leave this life without another reason! I wanted to find my sister who left because my parents neglected her while supporting me!" Rene yelled startling Aria. "Oh the story you will never reveal. You tell me you spent how many years since leaving and you never found your sister!?" Palermo questioned. "Up until a few months ago, I have my answer." Rene said.

"Then why are you here!? Why are you back!? Why aren't you spending time with her!?" "I CAN'T! YOU SEE! I FUCKING CAN'T!" Rene yelled causing her Aura to stir a heavy draft of wind, scaring Palermo and Aria. "Rene?" Aria worried. "I..I can't okay." Rene steady herself against the door. The she reveal the truth. "According to Ash and Drake...my sister was killed in Unova a year ago." Rene admits causing gasps from Aria.

"Are you sure?" Palermo asked. "They saw it happen." Rene felt her energy drain. "So it's their fault!?" Palermo questioned. "No, no, no, no NO! It's not on them! And I ever blame them for it!" Rene shouted. "I..I never even got to say goodbye. All that time I spent being pampered and parading like some drag queen I could've spent with Mara. Maybe if I was never Kalos Queen, Mara would've never ran away from home. Maybe she would still be here." Rene shed some tears. Then she walks to Aria and slowly took the tiara off her head and looks at it.

"This...this fucking thing...was my prison." Rene cried then turn her attention to Palermo. "And you...you old, old hag. You were my warden." Rene began to growl. "Rene..I." Palermo lost her confidence. "Don't." Rene spoke plainly with red eyes. "I'm so sorry." Aria said. "You got nothing to apologize for Aria. In fact I envy how lucky you are." Rene said. "Why?" She asked.

"You do this out of love and you keep doing with happiness. You have loving parents who supported your every turn but most importantly...you're an only child which means you got nothing to lose." Rene said. "And the Kalos Tiara?" Aria asked. "That's just a mantle. It's maybe a title too but it's more of a mantle Aria and mantle aren't meant to be carried forever." Rene said.

"And Serena?" Aria asked. "She's...she doesn't disappoint. Never has." Rene said. "And you watch over her." Aria smiled. "More than that. So?" Rene asked. "You'll always be a Queen to me Rene but perhaps a new one in mind." Aria said. "Which is?" Rene asked.

"How about...Artemis. The Artemis Queen." Aria smiled which Rene smiles as well.

"Suspose you're right. Overall Palermo, my sister's dead and you rob me of that life that meant more to me. And you can make sure, I'll do all I can to make sure...you won't rob Serena of her's." Rene said. "She won't succeed." Palermo dared. "I'll take that bet, and perhaps people might see how obsolete you are. I surely do." Rene dares back then heads to the door. "Good luck Aria." She heads out.


After changing her Pokémon to making red band hats, Serena went to change herself. Now wearing a white dress with the skirt ending slightly above her knees. She made sure to wear black tights underneath for...security reasons along with long white gloves and go-go boots. Serena double checks her outfit since she Rene planned a special effect in the middle of the routine.


Flashback

"So these aren't real right?" Serena asked. "Nope and you won't get hurt but they will burn the right areas. Trust me, no one will see it coming." Rene said. "I really can't thank you enough Rene." Serena said. "It's nothing Serena. I'm just glad to be a part of it. You're more than my student." Rene said. "And that is." Serena asked.

"My sister."


Serena walked out of her dressing room but only to see about every performer who participated in the Master Class waiting for her. Still shocked, Serena walk through them and to her desk where her baton was. "So...what is this?" Serena asked as she grabbed her baton.

"I think I speak for everyone here Serena and...we just want to wish you good luck." Miette said. "Out of everyone of us, you came out on top Serena." Nini spoke. "So please promise us. All of us. Don't forget the ones who lost but very much fought." Shauna spoke with some tears. Suddenly Shauna couldn't take it and went to hug Serena. "Don't worry Shauna...I won't forget." Serena pats her back. "Any of you." Serena spoke to the other performers. "Oh and to you let you know, Amelia went and left the Hall. Guess she couldn't take the defeat very well." Miette added as everyone chuckled. Serena smile and let go of Shauna.

"Well...I must be going." Serena said. "Good luck." Shauna said. Serena nods and leaves the dressing room heading to the main stage. Right under the stage where the platform is, Serena saw Rene waiting for her. "You ready?" She asked. "As I'll ever be." Serena responded. "Okay, remember that the flames aren't real and that the friction from a fast spin will activate them." Rene said. "I got it." Serena nods. "Please prepare yourselves for our first finalist." The girls heard Pierre speak from above.

"You know...Aria came up with a great phrase after you left. Somehow...reckless Kalos Queens can maintain a sense of royalty." Rene said. "And what is the phrase?" Serena asked. "Artemis...Artemis Queen." Rene said. "Catchy." Serena smiled. "Performer Serena. It's time." A worker said as Serena nods. "Have fun." Rene smiled as Serena and her Pokémon set their place on stage.


Final Round: Serena

"Please give a big round of applause to Performer Serena." Pierre said as the stage rose up with Serena and all four of her Pokémon. Behind her were two sets of stairs on opposite sides of the stage. On the right was Aria waiting at the top overlooking Serena's performance.

Serena starts to tap her feet, lights were being spotted, and all her Pokémon were being in a groove. "Let's do this!" Serena said as she and her Pokémon did a sidestep. "Pancham Dark Pulse. Delphox use Mystical Fire." Both Pokémon charge and fired their attack in the air and merge them together. "Sylveon use Swift." To finish the combo, Sylveon fired several stars into the mix, causing the moves to bloat to a fireball that exploded out gold sparkles. Serena and the gang dance for a few moments as they balanced between moves and steps in their routine.

Delphox and Serena then tossed each other their branch or baton for this next step. With some help from Milotic, Serena got a ride on her back and Milotic jump high in the air. Serena jumps and spins at a fast pace, while using Delphox's branch to make a fire cone that extends while going down. To help guide her, Sylveon use Fairy Wind to keep her afloat but to also push the fire cone back up around. As a kicker Delphox use Fire Blast to create just an outline of a star that surrounded Serena. Now came the real trick.

Serena was still spinning and flames around her danced around. The Fairy Wind was carefully carrying her back to ground but that wasn't the best part. In the crowd's eyes they saw a part of Serena clothing were going red. Her torso, skirt, parts of her gloves and boots were getting hotter until they suddenly caught fire. The crowd was shocked extremely but notice that Serena wasn't reacting at all.

Palermo's attention was caught as she sees this girl going on fire but wasn't screaming. Serena's outfit was then getting reverted and parts were changing color. When Serena touch the ground, she smile and pose under a new outfit from the full white dress to the cheerleader outfit she bought back in Jacore Town. (If you're confuse what happen, think of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, If you watch that movie, The one scene of Katniss's wedding dress and how it 'magically' combust to a black mockingjay dress. Think that but through a more flashy display.)

The crowd roared in excitement that what Serena just pulled. Performing such a dazzling moment of magic and beauty. "Yes!" Rene shouted from understage. Going back on track Serena and Delphox toss each other's back their sticks where Delphox ran around the crew creating a fire circle in the process. From that point everything was clockwork. Sylveon use Fairy Wind around them that cause the flames to dance around. Pancham then use Stone Edge to disperse the flames and have the pillars form in a circle.

Sylveon took the next step and hop across everyone of them and jump high in the center to do a downward Fairy Wind to create a pink wind tunnel. Holding each other close, Serena, Pancham, Delphox, and Milotic flew high in the air. "Now guys." Serena said as Delphox, Pancham, and Sylveon use Mystical Fire, Dark Pulse, and Swift to merge a giant combo move. Outside the funnel was thick by the pink wind until suddenly the funnel open like a lotus in the springtime that expel out gold and orange sparkles and embers.

As a finisher, a bright blue light poke through the pink flower until it outshine it. The crowd gasp when they saw Milotic use Aqua Ring to emit a shining light like a star. Holding each other close was Serena and her Pokémon until Milotic cease and they went straight down. Finally finishing with a spin and landing on their feet, they pose and said.

"Finish!" Serena shouted while panting causing the crowd to give a big encore. "She did it!" Ash shouted. "I didn't think Serena had the gall to set herself on fire." Grace said. "She probably gets it from Ash." Drake laughs. "Ha Ha funny." Ash mocks.


"How wonderful. A grand display of skill worthy of a Queen." Pierre said. "Please take your place at the top of the left staircase." Pierre said as Serena climbed up the stairs while look at Aria across the stage. "Now for our second performer. The current Kalos Queen, please welcome Aria." Pierre said as the crowd cheer while Aria and her Pokémon make their way to the stage.

Compare to Serena's performance. Aria has three Pokémon compose of a Vivillon, Aromatisse, and her Delphox.


Final Round: Aria

Aria and her Pokémon started with a abit of ballet with her Pokémon spinning around her. "Delphox use Mystical Fire. Vivillon use Psybeam." From an upward angle, both Pokémon fire their moves at each other and constant stream from both moves created colorful embers. "Aromatisse use Reflect." With psychic power, Aromatisse created small round platforms for Aria to hop on.

After the third hop, Vivillon landed on her back and lifted Aria in the air. Aria laugh happily as she flew around while her Pokémon did a soft dance. Landing on the ground Aria continue the soft theme.

"Aromatisse use Fairy Wind." Aromatisse then summons a wind funnel to go upward. Delphox then use Fire Spin to have them dance inside the wind funnel. Vivillon once again gave Aria some wings as they flew upward while the winds carries Delphox and Aromatisse with them. "Use Echoed Voice." Aromatisse then shouted an echo that disperse the fiery pink winds to twinkle sparkles, wowing the crowd.

Landing on ground, Aria and her Pokémon went back to soft ballet with hand gestures. It was almost like they were displaying a play and Aria was drawing the crowd closer that everyone started to stand up. Serena could only look to see that the crowd was standing. Not only that they were wowed by Aria's performance but they also confident and trust her presence. Almost like a child being soothe by its mother. Serena knew Aria wasn't gonna go down easily.

"Delphox use Fire Blast." Delphox then ended the routine by shooting a perfect fire star that exploded into orange sparkles receiving awes from the audience.

"Finish." Aria and her Pokémon bowed which the audience gave applause to. "Aria is truly a master at her craft." Drake said. "I really hope Serena wins this." Bonnie said. "We can just pray for that." Ash said.


"How wonderful, both performers have put on displays of marvelous performances and dazzling feats we have ever seen." Pierre said as the audience applauded. "But now it is time to select a winner. In a few minutes, will Aria have defended her title or will a new queen rise today? The choice is yours the people of Kalos." Pierre said as the audience commence to voting with their Glow Sticks. Along with the digital votes were stacking up the colors of Cyan and Pink filled the room.

"Serena I just want to say it's been an honor." Aria said. "I think I should be saying that. You been there for me since the beginning." Serena said. "It was no trouble at all." Aria said. "You're more than my idol Aria." said Serena. "And what is that?" Aria asked. "You're my friend." Serena smiled. "Ready?" Pierre asked.

"1"

"2"

"3"

One last time, the hundreds of Glow Balls compose of Pink and Cyan floated to either Aria or Serena. Both performers saw that the color of glows balls were even out which means that this was gonna be extremely close. A passing five minutes and all the votes came and stack but somehow Pierre looked troubled.

"Uh ladies and gentlemen, it appears we have a tie." Pierre said shocking the audience and Serena and Aria. Both look at the Meters on screen as they fill up. Both meters fill up and stop at exactly fifty percent. "That impossible." Aria said. "What are the chances of this happening?" Ash said. "Very astronomical. Even with the digital votes." said Clemont.

"For the first time ever in Showcase history. We have a tie." Pierre said as the audience applauded at the historical moment. "So...what happens now?" Serena asked. "I think it's up to Palermo. She might be the deciding vote." Aria said as Serena felt anxious. "With this in mind. Special Judge Palermo will decide the next Kalos Queen." Pierre said. "I think you got this." Serena whispered. "What makes you say that?" Aria asked. "You know Palermo has a grudge against me and Rene so I don't think she has the best intentions at heart." Serena said as Aria too looked worried that Palermo's judgement might be conflicted. "What do you propose then?" Aria asked. "Remember when we first met." Serena asked as Aria smiled.

"I've made my decision. The winner of the Gloire City Master Class is." "Hold on." Aria interrupts Palermo. "There is another way to settle a tiebreaker." Aria propose. "With some help from my follow colleague here. We propose this tiebreaker and any tiebreakers in the future should be settle with a Performance Battle." Aria explains as the audience. "I have already made my decision Aria." Palermo dares as Aria scowls a bit but suddenly gets a light bulb.

"Alright everyone, who here wants to see a Performance Battle!?" Aria shouted as the crowd cheered. "Who here wants to see this tie get broken!?" Aria shouted louder as the crowd went in a frenzy and then started chanting "Let them battle!" Palermo was a bit shock that Aria propose a ludicrous idea and has everyone now agreeing with it. Pierre was at a loss for words and look at Palermo for the next course of action. With a crowd in a frenzy, Palermo knew the only way to sedate their hunger.

"If the people want to see this tie be broken, then let it be done." Palermo said as the crowd cheered. "Very well. Let this Performance Battle be settle on a two on two and will be concluded when both Pokémon on one side are unable to continue." Pierre said as Aria and Serena nod happily.

Like how Serena propose, both girls stood on opposite sides of the stage. Since they never did finish that Performance Battle when they first met, both decided to use their Pokémon used at the time. In which case, Serena is using Delphox and Pancham while Aria was using her Delphox and Aromatisse. "Let the battle begin" Pierre kicks it off.


Performance Battle: Serena vs. Aria, Two on Two

(Let me just say the style of this battle will be very different compare to what I've done previously and it'll incorporate a song so...bear with me.)

"Pancham use Stone Edge." With a strike to the ground, Pancham created two rows of pillars as he and Delphox hops across them to get the high top ground. "Use Mystical Fire." Serena's Delphox uses her branch to expel out a stream of fire at Aria's Delphox and Aromatisse. "Use Protect." Aromatisse sets up a green dome that negates the Mystical Fire.

From below Rene was still watching the battle and smiled. Serena and Aria's dedication was shown more than ever. Shedding a few tears Rene recalls a soft melody back in her day and thus started to sing softly.

Now playing the English version of Lifelight from Super Smash Bros Ultimate- (Same as before, listen to this song if you desire and I don't own this song or other relate parts of it. Plus I'm a big fan of the Smash Bros series and hope you enjoy it too.)

Colors weave into a spire of flame
Distant sparks call to a past still unnamed

Pancham flips back to avoid a Psybeam from Aromatisse while Delphox covers him with Mystical Fire against her counterpart's Mystical Fire.

Bear this torch against the cold of the night
Search your soul and re-awaken the undying light!

Together Pancham and Delphox charge at their opponents when Aria's Delphox uses Fire Blast.

On that day, when the sky fell away
Our world came to an end
In our eyes did a fading sunrise in the dark
Glimmering shadows

Pancham rolls in close to Aromatisse's personal space knocks it back with Arm Thrust while Delphox was push back by her counterpart by Psychic.

Silence grows in the spaces between
Stretching out beyond time
Rising up as the chorus of souls finds a voice
Flickering through the void!

These little sparks cling onto life
Everyone caught in the struggle
And then the storms of change
They fan the flames scattering ashes to the wind!

Aria felt the pressure as Serena's Pokémon was closing in on hers and needed to turn the tide.

Every soul contains a whisper of light
Gleaming faintly as it dwindles from sight
No escape, no greater fate to be made!
In the end the chains of time will not break

Pancham and Delphox were both push hard on the ground through a combination of Aria's Psychic and Aromatisse's Psybeam.

Colors weave into a spire of flame
Distant sparks call to a past still unnamed
Bear this torch against the cold of the night
Search your soul and re-awaken the undying light!

As fate spins a thread without end
New life draws it's first breath
Blossoming in a soil reclaimed from the past
Where destiny holds fast!

Delphox engage close with Scratch on Aromatisse but use Reflect to block but fail to see Pancham come from above and use Dark Pulse.

Here where we stand hand clenched in hand
Everyone caught in the struggle
This is the day we finally find
A way stepping into our tomorrow!

Every soul contains a whisper of light
Growing louder as it calls to unite
From the distance sings a chorus of souls
Rising slowly, stirring heat from the coals

All four Pokémon were panting and out of breath as this battle was taking its toll.

Colors weave into a spire of flame
Distant sparks call to a past still unnamed
Bear this torch against the cold of the night
Light will guide you on your way to the utimate fight!

In one final charge, all four went at each other with their own moves while Serena and Aria were so determined to finish this once and for all.

Every soul contains a whisper of light
Growing louder as it calls to unite
From the distance sings a chorus of souls
Rising slowly stirring heat from the coals

Colors weave into a spire of flame
Distant sparks call to a past still unnamed
Bear this torch against the cold of the night

The two Pokémon finally gave in and laid there unconscious.

Light will guide you on your way to the utimate fight!

Rene then stop singing and smile softly.


"We have a clear winner now. The winner is...Performer Serena!" Pierre said. "Yeah!" Ash shout first as the audience cheers now. Confetti falls from the ceiling as Serena and her Pokémon cried happily. At last this moment arrive. They accomplished their dream together. Aria and her Pokémon applauded for them.

"Say hello to your new Kalos Queen!" Pierre said as Serena wave to crowd happily. "She did it! She did it!" Miette cheered as Shauna and Nini hug each other. Palmero didn't express any emotion as she didn't wish to give Rene any credit.

"Congratulations Serena on this grand accomplishment. It is my greatest honor to present to you the Kalos Tiara and the title of Kalos Queen." Pierre said as he place a silver tiara on Serena and gave her a bouquet of roses. Serena bows and waves to the crowd once more. "This Master Class has truly gone down in history. Let's give one more hand to our new Kalos Queen and until next time. Au revoir." Pierre said as everyone was getting clear. "Rene where are you guys gonna be." Drake asked via Aura link. "We'll make our way out later. Just wait at the Pokémon Center, we'll see you there." Rene responded as Drake nods. "Rene said she'll meet us at the Pokémon Center when they're done." Drake said. "Understandable." said Ash.

Serena went downstage where Rene was waiting. There she ran and hugged her tightly. "You did you!" Rene squeals. "I couldn't have done it without you." Serena said. "You deserve it. All the glory and benefits." Rene said. "True but...I've been thinking. Since I'm now Kalos Queen, won't this mean I have to do appearances and stuff and leave the group?" Serena asked. "More than likely but on the other hand, you don't have to do anything you don't want to do." Rene said. "It's not that I don't want to do it. I just...don't want to do it yet." Serena said then she got a light bulb. "You got an idea?" Rene asked. "Yep, can you get Aria to meet me on in the private dress room upstairs?" Serena asked as Rene nods.

Aria didn't know what was going on when Rene came to her and told her go to the private dress room on the second floor. She walks inside and sees Serena in her tiara and bouquet of roses. "Serena, Rene said you wanted to see me?" Aria said. "Yep, and let me just say I had so much fun today." Serena said as she hugs Aria.

"Me too and you truly deserve this title. You are gonna make a great Kalos Queen for years to come." Aria said. "Yea..about that, I have a huge favor to ask you." Serena said as Aria peak closer.

"I need you to keep going for me." Serena said as Aria was confused. "I'm sorry." She asked. "I need you to keep going as Kalos Queen for me." Serena said as she takes off her tiara and places it on Aria's head. "But, but...why?" Aria asked. "There are still things I want to do. Like Ash has been there for me my entire career and I want to do the same and be there when he competes in the Kalos League." Serena said as Aria understood. "Not anyone can walk away from this." Aria said. "Rene did and besides think of it as Acting Kalos Queen." Serena said. "I understand Serena but Palermo won't take this lightly." Aria warns. "Which is why I'll be out of the city tonight." Serena said.

"Are you sure you want to do this?" Aria asked. "...A wise woman once said, a woman knows by intuition or instinct what is best for herself." Serena said as Aria smile. Suddenly a two conservative knocks on the door came. "That's Rene, She's gonna sneak me out of here." Serena said. "Don't worry, if Palermo ask, I got your back." Aria said as Serena smile. "I'll see you soon." Serena said as she went out the door with Rene. "We'll use the rear entrance. "I manage to pack your stuff for you." Rene said as she hands Serena her bag. "I don't suspose I have time to change do I?" Serena asked. "After we get clear of the Hall. There's a park in between here and the Pokémon Center. You can change in the restroom." Rene said while Serena was slightly disgusted by the thought.

Reporters were waiting at the front for the new Kalos Queen to be reveal. Palermo was handling the situation while Serena was being brought down despite her reluctance to accept this. To Palermo's shock, Aria was coming with a tiara and bouquet instead. "Where is the girl?" Palermo whispered. "Umm...she is doing what is right to her." Aria smiled said as she than explain what had happen.

"WHAT!?"


Serena and Rene ran into the Pokémon Center lobby where the gang was waiting for them. "Guys we made it." Rene waved. "Apparently so." Drake smiled. Ash and Grace couldn't wait anymore and went over to Serena and each one gave her a big hug. "My daughter the Kalos Queen." Grace cried. "You manage to complete you dream honey." Ash said.

"And we also want to give our thanks." Serena and the group turns to see Shauna, Miette, and Nini. "How'd you guys know where we were?" Rene asked. "We called them." Drake said. "It seem like just yesterday we were fighting over Poke Puffs and boys. Now...I'm best friends with the Kalos Queen." Miette sniffs. "Actually guys, I have a confession to made." Serena said.

"I decline the title and gave it back to Aria." Serena said shocking everyone. "But why would you do that dear?" Grace said. "It didn't seem like the right time to accept it. There are still things I want to accomplish first. Besides...I have everything I need right here with me right now and Ash you still have the Kalos League to get through." Serena said as everyone seem to understand. "But what would Palermo do about this?" Ash said.

"She definitely won't be happy about it which is why we need to get out of here." Rene said as everyone understands. Outside everyone prepared to leave. "Well..at least you accomplish your dream honey, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your journey." Grace said. "Get home safe mom." Serena said as she hugs Grace. There she steps into the cab, "Ash please take care of her." Grace said. "I will." said Ash as the cab pulls away, leaving the group with Miette, Shauna, and Nini.

"Well girls, may we see each other down the road." Shauna said. "One more thing, Serena remember our agreement." Miette reminds as Serena groans about the deal she and Miette made during the Master Class. "One hug." Serena said. Miette smiles and rushes to Ash. "What's up." He asked only to be nearly tackled by the blue haired girl. "I will never forget you." Miette said as she then takes the plunge and suddenly kisses Ash on the lips, shocking the boy.

Serena gasped as she tried to angrily rush to Miette ready to cause harm but Shauna and Nini to hold her back. "THAT WASN'T PART OF THE DEAL!" Serena shouted as Miette retreated. "YeaIknowbutitwasworththelost,loveyouallbye!" Miette spoke fast and ran away before Serena could get her hands on her. Ash was still shock by what just happened. "Please tell me that didn't just happened." Rene nearly laughed. "I think she stuck her tongue in my mouth." Ash spoke plainly. Drake could only laugh hard at Ash's embarrassment. "Only Miette." Shauna said as everyone agreed.

"Good luck everyone and Serena, tiara or no tiara, you'll always be the Kalos Queen to us." Shauna said as she and Nini prepare to leave. "Don't be a stranger." Nini said.

After their departure, the group preceded to get moving too and one their way to Snowbelle City. "So you think Palermo will hold this against us?" Serena asked. "Let's not worry about her. I've already said what I need to say to her and well...for the first time, I finally feel free from her grasp." Rene said. "I think we both are and besides that title Aria gave you might apply to me too." Serena said. "What are you guys talking about?" Drake asked. "Aria gave a great phrase to former Kalos Queens who are still as great and elegant while maintaining a sense of royalty." Rene said. "Okay, and that is?" Ash asked.

"Artemis Queen." Rene said. "That has a nice ring to it." Drake smiled. "Yea, Artemis Queen or just Artemis." Bonnie laughed.

"Yep Serena, you would make a fine addition to the line of Artemis Queens." Rene said as the gang laugh together. Leaving Gloire City behind, the group now sets their sights on Snowbelle City as the Journey continues.


Oh man, this has been quite a Chapter and a finisher to a great milestone. Sure perhaps in the future maybe a Showcase or two will come up but for now the Showcase season is over for the year. Overall this is part two of the Master Class, and Serena did indeed win but knew she had set her sights closer to heart much like Rene before her. Hence why she 'escape' before Palermo could even offer her a deal and this will widen the gap between her and the girls. So this right here isn't over for them.

One thing I could ask from you all and that is please review on this. I enjoy the responses from you all. Even if it's just one or two words like 'Cool' or 'Very Good' I'll take it. Please tell me what you think of this chapter or story.

I'll explain the next chapter next time. This is Paradox signing off. Goodbye.