Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of the Rustboro arc and Serena's first showcase. This is also a major turning point in the character arc of Murkrow, and so the song chosen for the freelance performance was chosen to represent her growth so far. We also get an introduction to Serena's main rival for Hoenn, I've tried to make her different from both Amelia in Johto and Miette in both Kanto and Johto. We also get an introduction to the first gym leader in Hoenn, whose not Norman. I've taken liberties with her, but she is still essentially Roxanne, mainly her age since she seemed about twelve in the games and I feel that's too young for someone who has the position of gym leader. Also a guest review keeps asking for some none-canon Pokemon that'll be caught in Sinnoh. The only one's I'll say are: Carvinvine or Yanmega. Not gonna say who gets who though. Not much else to say, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.
Chapter nine: Rustboro Showcase: Unbreakable
Serena stretched her arms up under the warm Hoenn sun, a small smile flickered over her lips.
She looked to the side to taking in the sight of everyone else in the group. Brock and Max were walking together, the young boy holding his newly caught Lotad as they seemed enthralled by their own conversation. These two really seemed to get on. She didn't get to know Max all that well, but he seemed to share Ash's enthusiasm for Pokémon but with the want of knowledge that only the breeder could properly supply.
Ash was watching with interest as his Taillow flew ahead, showing off her Steel Wing. Despite getting it down pretty quickly, she couldn't keep up the tense hardening of steel type energy. Just the fact she got it down this fast was impressive.
Her eyes lingered over to May, who was carrying her Silcoon in her arms, giving her a brush as they travelled around. While she did still show some favouritism towards the bug, it wasn't nearly as apparent. Just seeing her other two team members running ahead in a playful manner was enough to prove that. Poochyena seemed to be leading the game of chase, waiting for Torchic to catch up before leaping out of the way. Every so often, causing him to fall.
A sign caught her attention, and her face broke out into a wide smile as her eyes widened. Running ahead up the small hill they've been travelling up for the start of the morning. Reaching the top, she looked ahead and took in the sight of the large silver city below. Several skyscrapers could be seen to one side, but they hardly made up the complete skyline. It wasn't nearly as large as a place like Saffron or Goldenrod, but the view was breath taking regardless.
"We're here!" she cheered.
Her friends came up behind and seemed to stop, all taking in the view. Even May's two energetic Pokémon seemed to be brought to a halt. As she continued to scan the streets, she noticed a few landmarks that she read about. An old-fashioned wooden building stood out among the silver metals, which she guessed would've been the trainers school. One of the few skyscrapers was titled with the Devon Corp logo and a large domed building looked just like a contest hall.
"Awesome! I can't wait to see the Devon Corporation!" Max exclaimed, "not only is it Hoenn's biggest tech-developer but they are the only business to rival Silph company in recent years! And the president is meant to be the father of Steven Stone!"
"Whose Steven Stone?" Ash asked.
"You're kidding, you don't know who Steven Stone is?!" Max exclaimed, "and you say you want to win the Hoenn league?!"
"The name sounds familiar," May mused, her finger popping up and eyes widening as a wide smile and tiny blush hit her cheeks, "hey, isn't he that cool swave good looking guy that comes to visit day every few months to talk about the gym?"
"How are we even related?" Max muttered, pinching the top of his nose as he hung his head. Pushing his glasses up, "Steven Stone is Hoenn's champion."
"He's the champion?" Ash asked, "cool! I'd love to meet him!"
"Not only that but he's one of the leading experts on mega evolution," Max explained, "and specialises in steel types. Strategically, one of the better types."
"Now Max, we've told you before that any Pokémon can be strong," Serena sighed, shaking her head, "thinking of them as pawns in a plan will only lead to issues for you down the road."
"Yeah, yeah, you've made that clear, along with type match's not mattering," he shook it off, "point is, the Devon corp hold tours for the public to check out their latest projects and see their inner workings! I've wanted to visit ever since we moved to Hoenn. Come on, what are we waiting for?"
"Whoa, slow down there cowboy," Brock held his hands up, "we've got plenty of stuff to do first. And we have plenty of time, we'll be in Rustboro for a while."
"What could we have to do that's more important?!" he cried.
"First, we need to find the Pokémon centre and book rooms for the night. Unless you want to camp out on a park bench," Brock replied, "we could also use a top up on supplies. Not to mention Serena has to register for the showcase, it's tomorrow so closing likely finishes today."
"I'd also love to get something to eat," May added, "and according to the guidebook, there's this lovely little cafe that I'd love to visit."
"Why do we need to top up on supplies if, like you said, we're staying here for nearly a week?" he muttered, head hanging low.
"Because the last thing we want is to be preparing to leave when everything else is done and find out we're short on food or medical supplies and the local stores are out of stock," Brock noted, "causing us to spend more time here whilst waiting for a delivery. Delaying our travels even more."
"So, I say we split up to get this done," Ash smiled, "I'll come with you two to book our rooms and then we can head off to the shops. Serena can head off to register ready for the showcase and do any last-minute preparations and May... I guess you could come with either of us, really."
"It sounds like you've got everything covered so like I said, I'll go and take Silcoon and the others to that cafe," she smiled, "but do you mind getting me a room booked whilst you're at the Pokémon centre?"
"Of course," Brock smiled.
"What?!" Max cried out, "how come she gets to just go off on her own? It's not fair."
"Because is a trainer herself and we're not exactly her keepers," Brock crossed his arms, "I know it's hard, but your parents left me in charge of you and trust me to keep you safe. So, it's how it needs to be."
While it was clear that he wasn't happy, he sulkily followed the two boys down the path into the city. She couldn't help but sympathetically smile at him, even if they'll visit that company he wants to, she can understand the want to do it straight away. Following her way down the path, she diverted slightly from the others as she aimed for the large contest hall instead. Catching sight of May running ahead with her two Pokémon by her side.
Entering a steady pace as she entered the city limits, she couldn't help but smile at the more civilised environment. Even if she loves nature and doesn't mind camping out, this is more where she feels at home. As she explored the city limits, using her Pokegear for directions to the hall, she pulled out her Pokéball.
"Come on out, Murkrow," she called. In a flash of light, her dark flying type appeared and perched on her shoulder. She smiled at her, "we've made it to the city and I'm heading over to the hall where we'll be competing. I thought you'd like to see it."
"Krow, Murkrow," she nodded.
Even if they couldn't communicate with her ESP due to her dark typing, they seemed to understand each other perfectly fine. Of course, that came through when planning the routine. Murkrow is hardly one for centre stage so they were able to come together with a plan for one which'll help her and use her element to its full effect. Hopefully, her mum was able to pick up and send over that outfit she messaged her about back in Petalburg.
Reaching the contest hall, she was surprised to see a large crowd in front of the hall. Cameras for both photos and video were being held up as all seemed to focus on a girl who was being interviewed by some sort of reporter. Sparkling blue shoes with a darker shade of blue on the underside with fluffy white rims at the top and a diamond engraved bracelet around each bottom of her legs. One of her legs had a high sock on up three-quarters of her leg, while the other one was completely bare. She had pale-blue shorts on, but they were mostly covered by transparent thin skirt which had a darker-blue tint with glitter sparkling under the Hoenn sun. Just like Serena, her stomach was visible with a white-sleeveless tank top covering her upper torso. A similar thin, semi-transparent blue fabric covering her shirt. White fluffy accessories covering her lower arms with fingers still visible, nails painted blue. A similar fluffy accessory wrapped around her neck. Her hair was turquoise colour and long bangs hung down by her shoulders with a Ziggy strand standing at the back.
While she looked vaguely familiar, she couldn't quite place her. Behind her was a large bird Pokémon. Her body and wings were covered in fluffy white feathers, which matched the girls accessories. Two long, blue plumes extended like streamers from the back of her had a short, hooked beak and prominent cheek patch, both of which were white. Additionally, she had beady, black eyes. She had a long neck and short legs protruding from her fluffy body. The clawed talons were blue with four toes, three facing forward and one backwards. The tail was made up of five feathers, the outer two being longer the others.
"Well I really appreciate everyone coming here to support me but remember all those other performers deserve your support as well!" the girl squealed, in a high pitched screech, "when it comes time tomorrow, I want you all to remember to vote for who did best on the day and not your favourite beforehand!"
She seemed nice enough, even if a little energetic and bubbly. It kinda reminded her of Leaf, if not exactly. Racking her brain, she tried to recall why this girl looked so familiar when it hit her. This was the girl who won the grand festival back in the Orange Archipelago. Smiling as she remembered the friends, she watched that show with, she turned her attention to the fluffy Pokémon behind her. She pulled out her Pokedex to scan the Pokémon beside her:
Altaria, The Humming Pokémon. The final evolved form of Swablue. As it flies in a calm and relaxed manner, Altaria performs a humming song that would enrapture any audience. Despite its friendly demeanour, they can be as dangerous as other dragon types, especially in the wild
"Well Lisia, I'm sure everyone will be following your advice," the reporter smiled, "any fine words for your fans over the Hoenn region?"
"Just that both Ali and I love you and will do our best to win our second princess key for all your support!" she winked, "toodles!"
Seeing the girl disappear into the hall behind her, the crowd quickly dispersed. Most of them disappeared as the reporter seemed to still be talking into the big camera. Carefully avoiding them, as to not enter the shot, she made her way into the hall. The cool air conditioning felt refreshing against her skin as she took in the sight. A few people were scattered around but it was mostly empty. The large lobby reminded her of the contest hall back in Olivine.
She made her way over towards the desk on the far side. Smiling towards the women who was sat behind, she registered for the competition tomorrow, where she also learnt the preliminary round would be a demonstration of how they help a Pokémon train. Receiving a new pass for Hoenn showcases, she turned around and began walking across the lobby.
"Heeeey!" a high-pitched voice screeched, as Lisia practically jumped in front of her. Serena stumbled back in surprise, "don't I know you?"
"I-erm, I don't think so," she replied, trying to regain her composure, "I mean, I was in the audience when your won your grand festival but-"
"No, no, it's not that," she shook her head, "... maybe I saw you on television before."
"Erm..."
"I've got it!" she exclaimed, "you won the last Johto Grand Festival, didn't you?"
"Y-yeah," Serena stuttered, "but how-"
"Did I know that?" she asked, "it's because I try to watch as many contests and coordinators as possible! You never know when the next strike of inspiration will come from and anyone whose competing, whether a rookie starting out or seasoned top coordinator requires the same support!"
"Right..." she sighed, not quite sure how to take this girl. She certainly seemed nice enough, if not a little pushy.
"But if your here, now, then that means you must be competing in the Hoenn showcases as well!" she exclaimed, "and you must be competing tomorrow."
"Hehehe, you could say that," she chuckled, "look... Lisia, it was nice meeting you but-"
"No, no, I totally get it, you want to do some last-minute practising for the competition," she shook her head, "I totally understand and wish you the best!"
"Even though we're competing against each other?" she questioned.
"Totally!" she beamed, "the only way for trainers, whether competing in contests, showcases or even the leagues, to improve are by having competition that forces that improvement! If you do great, then I'm forced to up my game, which'll in-turn will force you to get even better and it goes around forever!"
"Ya know, I never thought of it like that," she mused, "I'm Serena, by the way! And this is Murkrow!"
"Murk Murkrow!" her bird cried from her shoulder.
"Well it was lovely meeting you both," the energetic girl bowed. Quickly stepping forward and embracing her in a bone-crushing hug. She barely had time to register the gesture, let alone return or withdraw before the Hoenn super star ended it, "see you both tomorrow!"
She watched the energetic girl run across the lobby of the hall and disappear around a corner with her Altaria. Serena turned towards Murkrow, who blankly stared back, probably matching her own expression. Shaking out of the trance, she made her way back outside. A news van was driving off, presumably the reporter and camera man from before. Refocusing her attention back to the matter at hand, she used her Pokegear to find a nearby park.
Reaching a local park, she smiled at the sight. Several young children were playing on the playground, swings, slide and climbing frame. She made her way across the grassy fields, where several trainers were working with Pokémon before stopping on one of the empty battlefields.
"Come on out, everybody!" she shouted, releasing her entire team. Sylveon, Hitmontop, Cacnea and Cascoon appeared all in row, with Murkrow soaring down to join them. She had to dive to the side as Cacnea made leap with his arms spread wide. Avoiding the spiky embrace, he hopped back over to the others. A smile formed on her friend as she saw them all, "okay everyone, we've finally made it to Rustboro and now we're registered. It's official, tomorrow we'll be competing in our first showcase."
While most of them cheered at the response, Cascoon looked up with stoic expression. Serena knew cocoon Pokémon weren't very emotive, but it was clear she had the undivided attention. While Hitmontop turned to the side with his arms crossed. He wasn't shy about not caring for the girly performances.
"And they also told us what the preliminary stage will be," she explained, side stepping to get in front of the fighting type and squatting down, "which is why I want to ask you Hitmontop. Would you compete in this stage with me? It sounds like something right up your alley."
"What is it?" he mentally grunted, glaring up at her with a hardened expression.
"It's a three-minute example of training," she explained, "I'm allowed to take one Pokémon with me and it's to showcase how we help our Pokémon get stronger. I guess I could use one of the other three, but I don't want to spoil the performance."
"Hmm... it's just training?" he asked, to which she nodded, "fine. Then I'll do it. On one condition."
"What condition?" she asked.
"Once this little performance is over, regardless of if you lot win or not," he replied, "I want a battle. A battle with you and your ESP."
"Why?" she asked.
"Because I joined you because of your power, your strength, I picked you over that boy of yours because of his refusal to use his strength" he explained, "yet, I've hardly seen it. You use it more to make everyday life easier instead of combat. You've made it clear you want to make me more social, but I want to make you stronger."
"... okay then, I'll have a battle with you," she smiled, "but know that our knew friends don't know about my ESP yet or Ash's aura. So, we'll have to do it in secret. Deal?"
He reached out and shook her hand with his. A familiar glint in his eye, "even better."
Smiling down at him, she stood up and turned towards the others. Setting up the team of Murkrow, Cacnea and Cascoon on practising the routine, with Sylveon there to give them any final tips or directions, she walked over to the far side of the battlefield with her pure fighting type, deciding on what to show in the three minute training programme, ready for tomorrow's showcase.
May wondered down the streets, hugging her Silcoon close to her chest as she explored the local area. Her Poochyena and Torchic were no-longer running ahead but stayed by her side. While she told her friends, she'd be off at a cafe, the truth was she had something better to look into.
She soon found her way over to a large old-style building, marked out as Rustboro's Trainer's school. While May told her friends that she was going off to a cafe for something to eat, this was her true target all along. It was back at the flower shop that she realised how imminent her battle with the Rustboro gym battle was. She knew she didn't want to partake in regular battles like her dad or Ash but if she said that without an alternative then her family would crucify her. They are a gym family, after all, at least if she can find something to peak her interest then she'd have a stable standing.
As she stood in front of the building, she glanced to the side where there were a swarm of little kids, all younger than Max running around with several small Pokémon with them. A few adults were scattered around but one women seemed to notice her. With a smile on her face the female approached.
"Hello there," the women smiled. She appeared in her early twenties, her hair was long and brown, big bunches on top with twin pigtails dangling behind and a pink bow holding it all together. Ruby red eyes contrasted with her friendly expression, as she held herself up in a respectable manner. Dressed in a black skirt dress with white undershirt and long pink tights, with black shoes and a pink tie around her neck to match her ribbon, "are you a new student?"
"N-no, well, not exactly," she stuttered, "I'm May, and I heard that you offer, or well, the school offers the chance to sit in on classes. A chance to experience the subject matter beforehand."
"Of course," she smiled, "nice to meet you May. My name is Roxanne and I'm the headmaster of this school. So, tell me, which class was you interested in seeing?"
"I, erm, I'm not sure," she admitted, hanging her head, "you see, my parents and brother really want me to work towards the league, but plain old battles seem boring. I was planning on just using my chance as a trainer to travel but now that I'm actually a trainer-"
"It's not what you expected," Roxanne nodded in understanding, "it rarely is and believe me, you're not the first person to have this sort of experience."
"So..." she muttered, not sure where to take this conversation.
"While I normally offer a chance to sit in on one of the classes for the day, I can make exceptions," she smiled, "so why don't you follow me, and we'll go to see all the classes. Usually one stands out more than the others and that ends up being your calling."
"What if one of them doesn't call out to me?" she asked.
"Then we can cross that bridge when we get to it," she smiled, "and while I can allow you to have one Pokémon out. Having three of them could cause a disruption."
Nodding in understanding she reached towards her belt and recalled both Torchic and Poochyena. While she doesn't want to show favouritism, those two running around could ruin this opportunity, so her decision was a pretty easy one to make. Turning towards the headmaster, she followed her into the building.
It felt like another world as she looked around the interior. A small reception area with glass doors showing the corresponding corridor's, a couple potted plants next to the empty seats and a small window where a women was sat. Presumably, she was one of the receptionists. With Roxanne using a swipe card, she pushed one of the doors open and held it for her to step inside.
Despite the old-styled exterior to the building, the inside was very modern with laminated flooring and plain walls which had boards filled with fliers and posters scattered down the way. Following the headmaster, her eyes scanned the plack on each door, some named after a person while some were a utility.
A large board over a set of double doors read Professor lab. Stepping through them she saw another series of doors scattered across either side of the corridors, this time as she looked through the small windows on them, she saw different classes in progress. Some were in a computer suite, some in more traditional laboratories with chemicals and some just plain classrooms with desks and students writing in books.
"Of course, the broad subject of research covers a lot of different avenues, which explains the different types of researchers in the real world," she explained, as they stopped at one of the class rooms to look inside, "so here we teach the different methods of research since more researchers enter their own field afterwards to explore their own hypothesis. So, we have them on rotating courses, exploring science-based research, written reports and the actual profession."
"Heh, this would probably be where my brother would end up," she chuckled, "he's as big a battling nut as everyone else but he also loves studying."
"Becoming a researcher in any manner is a big accomplishment, should he choose to go down that path when it's his time," she smiled, "but it does take a lot of commitment and hard work. I'm guessing by your reaction that this isn't exactly your calling."
"No," she admitted, looking downward, "sorry."
"You've got nothing to be sorry for, May," she placed a hand on her shoulder, a reassuring smile on her face, "come on, we've still got plenty of classes to explore. I'm sure we'll find something for you before the end. Come on, the breeding classes are held just down here."
Following the headmaster, a thought occurred to her, "ya know. A friend that I'm travelling with, he was a breeder. But he's focusing on medicine now."
"I'm not surprised, breeding as a profession is again a broad subject manner," she explained, "it's all about taking care of Pokémon but that can be done in a number of ways. Do you specialise in new hatches? medical care? Do you work on the proper nutrition? Are you just using it as a way to raise Pokémon to their best potential? Or are you more of psychology of the Pokémon? Or do you focus on eggs?"
"Wow," May muttered. She never knew breeding of all things had so many different elements.
"I believe every trainer, regardless of alternative profession should have a basic breeders training," Roxanne continued, as they entered a separate wing of the school, again signs labled it as the breeder's sections, "how could you raise a Pokémon for battle or contests, if your unable to look after one normally?"
"That does make sense," she admitted, "but I don't think expanding from the basics is really for me. Honestly, breeding seems to be what I was planning on originally."
"That's fine, but it does mean we can move onto the more battling based professions," Roxanne suggested, "unfortunately, our showcase classes are only just picking up and we only have one teacher for the subject. We've attached it to the contest wing for the time being."
"That's alright, I have a friend whose competing in the one tomorrow," she replied, "I'm guessing that will be a good chance for me to experience them."
"Great news, and since you already seem to know about regulars that leaves contests," Roxanne smiled, "of course, there are plenty of subjects we don't run here but if you want something to do as trainer, these are good starting points."
"What sort of subjects don't you run here?" May asked, following her down a corridor.
"Pokémon connoisseur, watching and more type-specialised fields like electrician or aquarium or sea-explores come to mind," she shrugged, "but those last two are just further expansions on science professions, now I think about it."
"Why don't you have those classes here?" May asked, "if you don't mind tell me?"
"It's really down to me, as a gym leader I focus on bringing out the potential in battles," Roxanne explained, "we only integrated performances because of the leagues insistence in making the showcases a success during these early years."
"Wait you're a gym leader?!" May exclaimed.
"Yep, I was top student in the battling class here which for a long time was the only avenue," she replied, "I wanted to expand the horizons for the students here and worked my way up the school board whilst running the gym. We don't run connoisseur and watcher classes because of the cultural differences, both come from Unova and only recently spread out. In Hoenn, we live and breathe with nature, don't rely on others to watch and write it down for us."
May smiled at the passion the gym leader held. While she doesn't hold special significance to a particular region, she knew Unova better as her original home, even if her mother originally is from Hoenn. It's what made moving her such an easy decision for her parents.
"So here we are," Roxanne announced, as they passed through another set of double doors, "the contest and performance wing."
The next morning Serena stood in front of the contest hall, the warm Hoenn sun leaving her skin feeling fuzzy. Ash, Brock, and Max were stood together behind. She briefly wondered what happened to May, she gave them a quick greeting on the way to breakfast but left without even eating. While she assumed that she was heading back to that cafe, or that's what she claimed at least... it was difficult to trust her, though, she just felt something was up with her.
Shaking her head, she pushed the thought aside. May is a trainer and not someone she needs to babysit. Instead she will just focus on the showcase and the challenge ahead of her. A loud roar echoed through the cheers drew her attention as she saw Lisia come in on her Altaria, landing a little bit. The crowd swarmed her as she slowly made her way over to the building. Sighing, she turned towards her friends.
"Don't worry about that, Serena, you've got just as many fans back in Johto and everywhere else we've been," Ash encouraged, "and the better performer will come out on top. By this afternoon you'll have your first princess key in hand!"
"Thanks Ash," she smiled, leaning forward to peck his lips. She heard a disgusted sound and slyly glanced to the side to see Max was the source, pulling a face to match. She giggled lightly at the reaction before focusing back on Ash, leaning in to peck his lips a couple more times, "guess I should get going."
She watched as the three boys made their way over to the audience entrance. Max made comments about how they should be preparing for the gym battle instead of spending the day at a silly show like this. It made Serena thankful for how supportive Ash has been, ever since they met. Even before they became a couple, he never complained about needing to make a detour on their journey if it was something for her or one of their friends.
With a smile on her face, she made her way around the side of the building where the performers are meant to enter. Using the pass, she received yesterday when entering, she made her way down the corridor and into a dressing room, having followed a stagehand. There were four other girls in the room.
Taking a seat on the bench against the far wall, she took out her Pokéballs and released her team. Some of the girls seemed to be pampering themselves in the desks set up to do make up, and get themselves ready, while others were also talking with their team. Glancing up at the opposite wall, she saw a television screen which was set to the channel where the showcase would air. Right now, it was running a sort of pre-show introduction to the concept.
After a few minutes, it switched to an aerial camera view of the inner stadium, spiralling around to show the large crowd as an over-voice spoke, "now it's time for the main event, live from Rustboro city is the master of ceremonies in the showcase world, Monsieur Pierre and his partner Klefki!"
A man burst onto the stage, dressed in a dark blue and black suit. A massive key hung around his neck as pale-yellow hair stuck out from under the top hat which matched his outfit. A staff was in his hand as some sort of floating Pokémon took off from the top of it. She pulled out her Pokedex to scan:
Klefki, The Key Ring Pokémon. This Pokémon is constantly collecting keys. Entrust a Klefki with important keys, and the Pokémon will protect them no matter what. While they may not look powerful, they are some of the most loyal Pokémon around
"Bonjour, ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the lovely city of Rustboro," he announced, twirling around as he reached centre stage, "we have a special show for you all today as we see these lovely performers compete to win this!"
He held his hand up and Klefki rotated around him, floating high into the air. The loop underneath opened and a golden key with a ruby engraving handle fell.
"A prestige Rustboro Princess Key!" he announced, "each performer has to earn three of these keys from showcases around the region. Once they do, they'll have a chance to compete in the master class and become Hoenn's first showcase queen!"
The audience erupted in cheers. Spotlights shooting around the them in a dazzling manner.
"Now onto the show!" he continued, "our competition is split into two rounds! The first round is to prove an important quality that all showcase queens should possess. There isn't a number on contestants who could pass, and todays test is how to raise a Pokémon. We're asking them for a three-minute demonstration on a typical training day! Should they pass the evaluation based on our expert judge, then they'll move onto a freestyle performance, which they can complete with up to three different Pokémon. After that point, all viewers whether at home and in our lovely audience will vote upon the winner!"
Several lights shone on the stage, fully illuminating the set. It was completely covered by different work out pieces of equipment, a bench-pressing bed, a rowing machine, several weights of different sizes on a rack, a wooden wall with different coloured elastic bands and a single punching bag.
"As you can see, we have our workout area prepared for all our lovely performers and their partners!" he announced "so without further ado, please welcome our first performer to the stage! Debra Morgan and her partner Breloom!"
She watched the young girl run out on stage with her Breloom by her side. It looked slightly smaller than the one they met at the flower shop but that could be because she's watching it on a screen and next to a much younger trainer. The mushroom Pokémon started off with the punching bag, as the performer gave an overview of her wanting of him to warm up through physical exercise before moving onto move complexity.
They seemed to receive a good response from the audience and the shows went on. Several more performers past and all seemed well liked by the crowd response, but it just felt... off. Surely, they couldn't put everyone through. How will they decide between those who will and won't make it?
"Et maintenant bienvenue, the lovely Lisia Lutia!" Monsieur Pierre announced.
The energetic teen ran out on stage, performing a long jump from the stage entrance to the centre. By her side was a Pikachu, of all Pokémon, clearly female with the heart shaped end to her tail. Landing in perfect sync, the two waved out towards the audience, who erupted in cheers.
"Hiiiiii, ev-er-y-bo-dy! Lisia here! Me and my Pikachu, Chu, have come to Rustboro City's spectacular Showcase to give a demonstration our own style of training!" she announced, "now first we need to make some room so Chu, why don't you warm up and I'll make us some space!"
"Pikapi!"
Lisia got to work, moving the equipment present to the side of the stage, with several stagehands joining in to help her. Meanwhile, Pikachu began running around the stage, slowly building up to leaps and twirls. Some sparks appearing over here body as she really got going.
"Awesome job, Chu!" she cheered with a little leap, "now that the start-up is done let's move on to practising a routine!"
Serena watched as they went through a pretty solid practise for some sort of dance routine. Lisia was giving a pretty detailed speech about what each part of the workout meant and why they did it, along with how they brainstorm ideas for performances or contest battles. All the while, Pikachu kept the audience entertained, switching between dance moves, workouts and move examples. All seemed in perfect condition.
"And that is a typical training session for myself and the gang!" she smiled, "hope you enjoyed the show and I look forward to seeing you all again! Toodles!"
She placed both hands to her lips and sent out a large spread of air kisses towards everyone in the audience. With a child-like giggle in her tone, she ran off stage with her Pikachu by her heel. With Monsieur Pierre running back on as the stagehands put the equipment back in place.
"And another merveilleuse show from Hoenn's super star!" he announced, "but now it's time we move on to our next lovely performer, Helen Kennedy!"
May struggled as she scooted her way through the audience of the showcase. She knew where her friends were sat but that didn't make it easy to actually get to. Maybe she shouldn't have gone back to the trainers school for the morning classes on contests, no doubt she'll be questioned about where she was.
She soon made her way to her friends and took the empty seat in between Max and Ash. The sight of the popcorn containers they both had made her stomach growl in hunger. Why didn't she stop off at one of the vendors before coming to find her seat? Mentally slapping her head, she saw the raven-haired boy smile towards her, which meant it was already too late. When she first set off as a trainer, never did she imagine doing something Pokémon related before food.
"Hey May, you made it," he greeted.
"Yeah... did I miss Serena already or-" she went to ask.
"No, not yet," Brock answered, "we're still in the themed performance rounds. According to the brochure, Serena is the last contestant to perform."
"So where have you been May?" Ash asked, "we didn't even see you at breakfast this morning."
"Oh erm, just went back to that cafe I told you about," she nervously chuckled, "then Poochyena went for a run and we lost track of time."
She smiled as it seemed both Ash and Brock accepted her answer, although the glint in her brother's glasses revealed he wasn't so sure, along with his signature smirk. Why does he have to be the know it all that can never be wrong. Before he could question her, however, a man dressed in blue and black swirled onto the stage.
"And now it's time for our final performer to showcase how they train their Pokémon!" he announced, "so put your hands together for Serena Yvonne and her partner Pokémon, Hitmontop!"
She ran out onto the stage, with Hitmontop walking behind her. His expression was less then pleased but he wasn't lashing and clearly waiting for her direction. She cleared her throat and began to try to push the equipment away. Luckily, a bunch of stagehands jumped in, moving it away for her.
"Alright, hi everyone," she greeted, a painful smile spread across her lips, "today we're gonna show you how we train, whether for performance or battle."
"Top," her fighting type muttered.
"Right so, Hitmontop's style is head on attack and not letting up on his opponents," she explained, "so the best way to accommodate that is to work on offensive moves of different types to make sure he has a chance regardless of who he goes up against. Right now, we've been working on the move, Triple Axel. It's an ice type move and would work well against a dragon type opponent or flying type. Hitmontop, if you wouldn't mind demonstrating."
Her handstand Pokémon gave a single serious nod and flipped onto his head spinning around. Every so often kicking one of his legs out against thin air.
"So luckily it's a similar to the attack Triple Kick, one of his favourites," she explained, "but instead of using fighting type energy, which comes natural to him, he needs ice type energy. This was difficult but with the help of some of our friends who are ice types, we learnt the way to manipulate it by draining all heat from the attacking body part. When stood still, it's easy for him to do this but the difficult part is doing it during the heat of battle."
Hitmontop gave a quick swift triple kick outwards as each foot sparkled with what appeared to be snowflakes, sprinkling over the stage and melting.
"Now we could've tried to activate his frozen feet before spinning but that also has it's downsides," she continued, as he exited his spin and stood next to her with a disgruntled frown, "you see, if he freezes his feet before spinning, he struggles to start spinning and he's unable to get the momentum moving to actively use the move in battle."
His blue feet seemed to turn a lighter shade with sparkles under the stage spotlights. He attempted to jumped back into a spin but clearly couldn't keep up the balance and fell flat on his face.
"Unfortunately, there's no easy way around this dilemma other than keep training," she added, "which is what we'll keep doing. We won't give up!"
The crowd erupted into cheers as she bowed towards the audience, although her fighting type didn't copy her. With the lights fading, she made her way off the stage as the stagehands returned to completely remove the equipment. A man dressed in blue and black swirling onto the stage.
"And our special judge has revealed which of ze performers today shall be moving onto the freestyle performances!" Moniseur Pierre announced, "so let's have a look towards the screen and find out who!"
The large screen behind him turned on and the first picture to appear was that Lisia star. Two more pictures followed, both of random performers who probably performed. Completing the top row. A fourth picture appeared on the second row and Serena's image took up the last spot on the bottom row.
"We'll give these lovely ladies a chance to get ready while we have a small intermission!" he added.
"Why did they wait until last to reveal Serena?" May asked.
"It seems they did it in the order they performed," Brock replied, "if she had performed first then she'd be revealed first."
"But what made them decide who moved on?" Max asked, "I couldn't really tell a difference between those who passed and some who didn't."
Hmm, I've a theory about that but I'm not completely sure," Brock mused, "you see, all five of those girls gave demonstrations without touching the equipment present. Maybe that was a sort of test to see who'd move on."
Serena sat in the dressing was dressed in a completely black outfit, jeggings, and a black workout top with black gloves. She smiled down at the grass type by her feet, those were specifically for him during the performance. Two linings down each sleeve and the legs on the outside. Despite having practised with them, she still felt nervous. Never did she imagine using such an outfit, even if not the most revealing it nicely hugged her body. She's just glad that the darkness will be masking her own figure.
Looking up at the screen displaying the current performance. Lisia was the current participant and she was using a Milotic, which she remembered Wallace using back in Johto. Along with the Altaria she saw with her during the girl's interview the day before.
The audience seemed completely enthralled by her energetic and colourful display. Despite having plenty experience performing in front of others, she knew that she was already a fan favourite. From what she learnt, Lisia was Wallace's niece and after studying under him for a few years, she went on to win her first grand festival in the Orange Islands. She since spent her time travelling Hoenn as a popular celebrity and thus built a massive following and fan club.
While the performance seemed good enough, she couldn't help but feel like Lisia would win because of her popularity and the fact her performance is so different from hers, aesthetically, makes her all the more nervous. Sure, her performance works with her Pokémon but is it really good for a showcase?
With every passing moment, she became more and more nervous. Every rival she's faced so far has been on her level. Sure, maybe Miette had a couple months head start but they quickly ended up on the same level. Amelia, she had an advantage by having professionals raise her Pokémon but that had her lacking in team working. The closest she had to deal with would've been Solidad but that was after well over a year of practising her craft. Here Lisia has years on her and she isn't nearly as prepared as she was for contests... it's sure to be a difficult ride for her, with Lisia already steps ahead.
"Calling Serena Yvonne to prepare for her performance," a stagehand popped her head into the room.
Looking down at her three Pokémon, she smiled and stood up. Cradling Cascoon in her arms, Cacnea hopped along by her feet and Murkrow rested calmly on her shoulder. Each step felt heavy as she took a deep breath in and out, following the female assistant down the corridor.
Reaching the stage side, she watched her team take their placements ready for the performance. She focused on the stage, which showed Monsieur Pierre back on stage as Lisia curtsied to the cheering crowd, alongside her Milotic and Altaria. Her water serpent disappeared in a red light, as she made her way off stage with her flying dragon smoothly floating above her. The energetic teen gave a bright smile as she passed Serena.
"Good luck," she whispered, a bright smile on her face and a skip in her step, quickly disappearing down the corridor.
"And now please welcome our final lovely perform today in the Rustboro Showcase!" the present announcer, the lights fading and him running off the opposite side of the stage, "s'il vous plaît mettez vos mains ensemble pour, Serena Yvonne."
May focused her attention on the stage as the lights dimmed casting the entire stage in darkness. A slight shadow could be seen lowering over the stage as a piano began playing slowly.
'Tell me I'm not good enough'
With the tempo picking up slight, a yellow line of electricity illuminated the stage, although not completely. Cascoon became visible at the base of the string, dangling over the stage as her body shone with metal. The electricity shone off her body, sparking lights all over the stage.
'Times like this, I wish I never existed. Nobody wants to listen. I'm screaming out for help'
A shadowy human figure could be seen within the still dimly lit stage. Arms and legs glowing with outlines of a greeny-yellow colour. Performing long leaps as she reached the centre stage, standing directly under Silcoon. Entering a spinning twirl on one leg, as the other stretched out.
'Times like this, I wish that I could let go. And open up a window, free to be myself'
A shadowy ball came jumping out of the opposite side of the stage. Two spiky arms became illuminated as they glew a bright green with a hint of yellow, not to different from Serena's own colour pattern. Performing spinning jumps to quickly transverse the stage and reach his trainer.
'But then there's you. Standing over me, tryina to make a fool of me. Tryina get the best of me'
As they past each other, they spun around. Serena lied down giving the image of a similar size as both rolled across the ground. She performed a front roll across the ground as her pure grass type leaped over head. Both twirling to end in a sort of kneeling pose.
'Oh, But then there's you. Tryina shut me out, tryina to kick me when I'm down. That ain't gonna stop me now, no'
They ran towards each other, with Cacnea leaping up at her. Their hands seeming to connect as they twirled underneath the Cascoon disco ball. Spotlights continued to shine across the stage and audience although none ever illuminating the two dancers underneath.
'How does it feel to know that I don't care at all? Your words don't mean a thing at all. I choose to rise; you choose to fall'
Parting off, Cacnea seemed to go flying to one side of the stage as a result of the twirl. Spinning around he landed on the far side of the stage, still only illuminated by the glowing arms which he held out. A series of bright zigzagged lights shot across the stage beneath the dangling bug type.
'How does it feel to know that I am capable? Of more than you will ever know'
On the far side of the stage, Serena landed after running there, following the toss of her Cacnea. She had turned to face the oncoming pin missile. Charging across the stage she somehow avoided the attack which disappeared off the stage.
'Don't tell me I'm not good enough! Don't you bring me down! I'm moving up and your over now'
She performed a long jump with her leg almost completely stretched at a straight hundred and eighty degrees. Her cactus Pokémon leaping up at her and landing right in front of her feet, both directly under Cascoon.
'You gave me fire! Every time you came around. My feet are steady on the ground. And you won't knock me down'
Several brown seeds launched up into the air as Cascoon swung around. Detaching from the electro web, it was difficult to make out completely, but she seemed to use poison sting. They struck the seeds and imploded into a sort of misty have as she re-atched herself to the ceiling with an electroweb.
'No more, oho, oho, oho. Now I'm unbreakable! Oho, oho, oho. Now I'm unbreakable'
Serena and Cacnea both held their arms over their heads in a circular fashion, not to different from ballerinas. Although it was harder to make out on the small grass type. Spinning to opposite sides of the stage, in perfect sync. A black shadow flew through the shimmering lights from Cascoon.
'Times like this, I'm picking up the pieces. I'm making up the reasons. Not to tell a soul'
Murkrow came to a stop right in front of Cascoon. A bright backlight covering most of her features as both wings were spread out. Coating them in a complete black colour, a purple outline surrounded her wings, not to different to the two dancers underneath, except for the colour which made her stand out.
'Times like this, I'd rather speak to no-one. I just want to move on. Stand up on my own'
She began skilfully floating around the stage, avoiding the spotlights from Cascoon as her wings revealed her position. She seemed to make abrupt and swift movements in time with the beat but also in sync with the bug. While Serena and Cacnea continued to dance in perfect sync beneath.
'But then there's you. Standing over me, tryina to make a fool of me. Tryina get the best of me'
Murkrow dove down and reached Serena, who stuck an arm straight up. She floated around her arm as she revolved around her body. She stuck her opposite arm out in the direction of Cacnea and Murkrow followed the pattern, entering a spinning straight shot for the grass type.
'Oh, But then there's you. Tryina shut me out, tryina to kick me when I'm down. That ain't gonna stop me now, no'
Leaping up to collide with her, the needle arm and night slash attacks, clashed sparks flashing off between them. Cacnea seemed to use this as a lift and leaped once more, flying straight for Serena as Murkrow shot high into the air, heading in the opposite direction.
'How does it feel to know that I don't care at all? Your words don't mean a thing at all. I choose to rise; you choose to fall'
Cacnea came into Serena's stretched out arms, linking them together and using the moment to enter another spin. While Murkrow stole the attention with several large stars seeming to shoot out of her beak and guild her path across the upper stage. Her beak glew and extended destroying the stars into glitter.
'How does it feel to know that I am capable? Of more than you will ever know'
Spinning on her axis, Murkrow dived through the glitter remains and added them into her tailwind trail. Swooping just above the dancing duo on the floor, she shot up and in front of Cascoon. The wind blowing the bug around on her shocking string with the lights going even crazier.
'Don't tell me I'm not good enough! Don't you bring me down! I'm moving up and your over now'
She came to a stop high above the stage and spread her wings, without the constant backlight drowning her out, she was more visible now. Her wings spread out in an explosion as her body seemed to burst into flames, although she didn't seem to mind.
'You gave me fire! Every time you came around. My feet are steady on the ground. And you won't knock me down'
Soaring overhead, she performed more spins and sharp aerial manuvers as the flames fizzled away in her tailwind. The small smiles seemed to illuminate both Serena and Cacnea who had synced up their movements once more, underneath the glittering disco ball that was Cascoon.
'No more, oho, oho, oho. Now I'm unbreakable! Oho, oho, oho. Now I'm unbreakable'
Murkrow soared close to Serena as the two of them ran across the stage, moving further into the background, entering a sort of synced dance as the pure grass type took centre stage with Cascoon shining a bright light down on him, his arms returning to normal.
'I remember getting teased as a kid! Cause of the place that we lived! We never had it easy, believe me, But that don't excuse the things that we did!'
Cacnea spun on his back, slamming one arm down, he flipped overhead and landed on his legs as he spun forward, with cotton spores floating up out of his body. All dimly illuminated by the dangling bug type above.
'Wouldn't accept that I was never accepted, Shed so many tears that I fell into depression! But if I changed, I wouldn't get caught in the maze! But it was all the same, I was feeling rejected!'
A series of purple stingers shot out of the cactus Pokémon. Imploding the cotton spores as it sprinkled down. Cacnea entered another backspin.
'Putting someone down, that's a low blow! What goes around comes around like a yo-yo! Wish that I could stop time like a photo, But we stand strong and bounce back like a pogo! (Don't tell me I'm not good enough)'
Serena came to a halt on the far side of the stage. Murkrow looped overhead and dived down on her. Spiralling around her, the bird went flying towards the centre stage. With the honey-blonde girl leaping after her.
'Don't tell me I'm not good enough! Don't you bring me down! I'm moving up and your over now! You gave me fire! Every time you came around. My feet are steady on the ground. And you won't knock me down'
Swooping around the stage, she dived down onto Cacnea slamming her wings into him as his needle arms deflected each one. At first, she thought it was an actual battle but the way he moved, and the perfect sync of blows proved it not to be the case. The final clash sending Murkrow rocketing upwards and Cacnea back towards their trainer. He shot several pin missile's into the air, which exploded in fireworks above the stage.
With the stage lights re-emerging and the song fading. Murkrow seemed to peck the string holding Cascoon, electricity gone. Making the bug fall down and land safely in Serena's arms. Cacnea was stood slightly in front of her feet with a wide smile, heavy panting and arms spread out. While the dark flying type carefully flapped her way down and landed squarely on Serena's head. Wings spread out, all of them performed a bow towards the crowd.
As for the honey blonde girl, she was panting heavily, and her face was shining under the spotlights as she appeared to be very sweaty. Even like that, she looked wonderful. It made May a little jealous, especially when she saw the dazed, mesmerised looked on Ash's face as his mouth was slightly hung open.
All of them performed a swift bow, with the crowd erupting in a loud cheer. She couldn't stop the smile forming on her face as she joined in clapping for her friend, although it wasn't nearly as enthusiastic as Ash, who seemed to snap out of his trace and jumped to his feet with a loud cheer, Pikachu perched on his head and adding into the noise. She was surprised to see Max giving a similar sort of reaction, with a tint of redness in his cheeks.
"So much for thinking showcases were a waste of time," she thought to herself, with a hint of smugness.
"Bien joué, Serena, on such a wonderful performance," Monsieur Pierre announced as he ran back on stage. Giving one final bow, she made her way off to the opposite side as he took centre stage, "we will now take a few minutes intermission, to allow our lovely performers a chance to recompose. If you use the pads in your seats, your able to cast your vote for them and for those watching at home, you can vote through your remote controls."
As he ran back of stage, a screen lowered and replayed the last five performances, not in total but short clips from each of them. She cast a glance to the sides and saw Ash, Brock and Max already using the pads to cast their votes. It was pretty obvious who they were going to vote for. Looking past them, she saw everyone else doing the same thing, so she reached to her arm rest and took the small phone-shaped pad in her hand.
It light up with a blue background and the face image of all five girls. Their respective teams used in the performance lined up next to them on the right side and a check box on the left side. She hit Serena's image and the entire row lit up. A big green confirmation button activating at the bottom of the screen.
She made her way into the dressing room and found Lisia waiting for her. Her Altaria was sat on one of the benches, looking like some sort of princess. The turquoise haired girl turned towards her with a smile on her face. Serena took a seat opposite side of the room and smiled at her team.
"Well done, everyone, regardless of the outcome, you all did amazing out there," she smiled, speaking out loud because of Murkrow's dark typing, "I couldn't have asked for more from any of you."
"You deserve just as much credit," a voice drew her attention, it belonged to Lisia, "that a really amazing performance!"
"Oh erm, thanks Lisia," she muttered.
"Is something the matter?" she asked, taking a seat next to her, "if its insecurity about your performance then forget about. I think I know whose won todays Princess Key... or at least who deserves it."
"Thanks, but it's not that," she replied, barely above a whisper, casting her look downward.
"Then can I ask what's up?" Lisia asked, "I've got a feeling it's about me."
"Well... I don't want you to take this the wrong way," she chanced a glance at her. A smile, ever-present on her face.
"I promise, I won't," she reassured.
"Okay, it's just... I don't know," she admitted, "I don't know what to make of you."
"Make of me?" she asked, her head corked to one side with her eyebrow quirking upwards. Her smile turned quizzical as her eyes focused on her.
"It's just... your always smiling and happy and full of energy," she replied, "I have a rival and friend. She isn't travelling around Hoenn, but I think she's competing in showcases up in Sinnoh. Her names Miette. She always acted that way, especially when my friends were around but she'd often have an alternative motive. Not always bad but it was usually just to mess with me in one way or another."
"And your scared I'm gonna try to mess with you in a similar way," she nodded in understanding. Closing her eyes, the smile never faded as she leaned back and cast her head back to stare at the ceiling, "I'm going to tell you the reason I always try to have a smile, Serena, hope that helps."
"Hmm," she hummed as she studied the super star.
"You see, Serena, it isn't always easy to be upbeat and have a smile," she explained, "but that is the best way to create a genuine one on someone else. And if I can brighten just one person's day with a smile, then it's worth it."
She found a small smile forming on her lips at the explanation. Part of her thought Lisia would be a stuck-up celebrity with all her fans and fame, putting on a charade but it seems that she is a real deal. Maybe she's use to meeting less than pleasant rivals during her journey's between early Miette in Kanto and Amelia in Johto. Along with the stress of having her first showcase, must've been why she felt so unsure about the energetic girl.
"Thanks, Lisia," she sighed, "and sorry for judging you."
"Don't worry about it," she shrugged it off, "adults might say don't judge a book by its cover, but that's what the cover of a book is for. It's natural."
"Lisia, Serena," a new voice drew their attention. Turning towards the entrance into the room, she saw an assistant stood with a clipboard in hand, "I've been sent to fetch both of you. The votes have been counted and we're ready to commence with the closing ceremony."
"Excellent!" Lisia jumped up, "we're totally ready for this! Right Serena?"
"Okay, just pick which Pokémon will accompany you on stage," the assistant replied, "due to limited space, your only allowed one whose partook in today's competition."
"Well Ali, it's you and me," Lisia smiled.
"Al Altaria!"
"Murkrow, how would you like to join me?" Serena asked.
"Krow! Murkrow!"
Bidding her other two performers goodbye, Cacnea leaped up to give her a hug which she was able to return. Her performance outfit was specifically designed to resist his spiky body and make contact possible. Not that she would consider walking around in it every day, it's not exactly a cool outfit and Hoenn is known for its hot weather. With one last goodbye, she followed the assistant with Lisia by her side and Murkrow resting on her shoulder.
They soon made it onto the stage, lined up were the four other performers who she was competing against, each one with a Pokémon by their side. The lights on stage lit up and almost blinded her as the audience became nothing more than a black shilluette, although the loud cheering almost deafened her.
"And we are back to announce your winner of the Rustboro city Showcase and see which of our lovely performer have won themselves this!" Moniseur Pierre announced as he ran back onto the stage. He held has hand up above his head, as his Klefki swirled after him, opening up the loop and dropping the item into his open palm, "you have been voting, whether at home or here in the audience for the performer that truly captured your attention today!"
The lights dimmed but didn't go out complete. Multicoloured balls flew across the arena from the audience and cameras. Each colour seemed to split off as they closed in on specific performers. Serena's colour seemed to be pink, as Lisia had a blue colour. With the other three performers having yellow, green and red, respectively. It felt like forever, but the final few orbs disappeared as they reached the corresponding performer.
"And ze winner of today's Rustboro city Pokémon contest is..." he paused. Her heartbeat against her chest as each second seemed to take a minute and the entire stadium was silent enough to hear a pin drop, "by a total of five votes more, it's one of our rookie performers! Serena Yvonne from Pallet Town!"
Her breath stuck in her throat as her eyes widened. The blinding lights shone with full might as the deafening crowd became almost silent. She won?...
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...