Author's Note:
Here it is, the first contest in Hoenn and also May's first contest. Everyone seems to think that she'll lose... we'll need to wait and see, won't we. As the title suggests, the main rival will be the one introduced last chapter. Big shocker, right? We are also already one fifth of the way through Hoenn... doesn't feel like it, right. This arc is going pretty quickly, maybe it's because it's my favourite region, I dunno. Just know that I have big plans for Drew, even if he isn't my favourite of May's rivals. If you've read my profile page and my list of favourite characters, you'll know who holds that place and... oh boy, am I looking forward to him. Back to today's chapter, something happened last time which comes back in a big way, but I won't spoil it here. Also, a guest review asked about the possibility of a tv tropes page for this series. I wouldn't even know where to start with this but if someone does and would want to create one, I'd be eternally grateful. As for where Paul is, he's in Kanto taking on the battle frontier. Don't forget to vote in the poll, it'll change when I post the next chapter and unlike previous ones, where I wanted to see what you thought would happen, this is a very pivotal one to the story. With that, let's begin.
Chapter twenty: Slateport Contest: Win, Lose or Drew
Serena smiled as she took the three Pokéballs of the tray that Chansey brought over. Clipping them to her belt, she handed the empty tray back before heading off through the centre, it didn't take her long to make the room she's sharing with Ash. As she stepped inside, she heard the shower running from the on-suite bathroom.
After reuniting at the centre, she noticed her boyfriend was pretty sweaty after the day's training. Due to the time, the group shared a late dinner at the centre's cafeteria before splitting up. Sharing their day's events. While she sent him back to the room to freshen up, while she waited for her team.
Hearing the shower turn off, she knew she had a little bit more time whilst he dressed himself for bed. Moving over to the far side of the room, she saw Ash's team already out. Pikachu was sat on Donphan's trunk, reading him some sort of bedtime story as he laid down ready for bed. Corphish was next to them, lying on his back with a giant sleep bubble out of his nose. Treecko was resting again a windowsill, she believed he was asleep until one of his eyes burst opened and looked directly at her. Taillow perched next to him, cleaning herself with her beak.
She took out her Pokéballs and released her team. Cacnea made his way over to both Pikachu and Donphan, taking a seat next to them to listen to the story as well. Dustox flew up and perched herself on top of a light shade. Meditite also made her way over to the story corner. Smiling at the sight, she released both her Sylveon and Hitmontop. The former taking a place on a nearby armchair, while the latter took a seat next to Meditite, possessively putting an arm around her. With a deep breath, she reached for the last Pokéball and released her fossil Pokémon who stood tall in front of her.
"Thank you, Kabutops," she thanked, embracing him in a hug, "you really helped us out against Team Magma."
"You're welcome but you don't need to thank me," he reciprocated the embrace, "anytime you call me over. I'll always battle for you."
"Well, I wasn't planning on just sending you back," she smiled, "if you want to hang around, I mean."
"Of course, I do," he smiled.
She couldn't help but chuckle at how fierce he's become in battle but outside of battle, he's just a little sweetheart. It's sort of like Beedrill, except her fuzzy bee wouldn't show off his softer side like this. She couldn't help but noticed him looking behind her, following the gaze, she noticed her boyfriend stood in his pyjama bottoms and without a shirt on. Ending the embrace, she stood up and cast a look back at the rock water type.
"You better find some place to sleep then," she informed him, making her way over to the chocolate eye boy.
He gave her a small smile, the kind which made her heart flutter. Moving forward to embrace her, she subtly raised her hand and used a little bit of psychic energy to push him back against the wall. Following through, she reached him and pressed her lips against his. Snaking her arms around his body, pulling him close. It took a couple seconds for him to respond before she felt his arms loop around her waist and he slightly pushed back into the kiss, which she ended.
"After today, I needed that," she sighed, relaxing in his arms.
"I still wish you would've called," he whispered, "you got caught up in another siege but with Team magma this time. They are certainly more persistent than rocket was during Johto."
"Well, there is two of them," she replied, "and we didn't have time to make a call. By the time we knew what was happening, it had already started. If I had then they could've made off with the rock and who knows what else. Besides, you couldn't have made it over to us in time."
"But what about after?" he asked, "you were in danger. I would've liked to know-"
"I can take care of myself, Ash," she rolled her eyes.
"Oh, I know you can," he replied, burying his head into the creek of her neck, "I've been on the receiving end of your powers, remember. But I love you, so of course, I'd want to know when you're in danger."
"Hmm, say that again," she giggled, feeling her heart flutter.
"What?" he asked, leaning in close to whisper, "I love you."
"One more time," she joyously replied.
"I love you, Serena Yvonne," he repeated, kissing her ear.
Giggling at his show of affection, she pulled away from the embrace and used a second light push of ESP to keep her boyfriend at bay. He was stuck to just watch as she grabbed the bottom of her shirt and pulled it over head, tossing it to the side, she watched his face.
It was clear he wants to focus on nothing but her face but... his eyes had another idea.
"I-I," he stuttered, "erm."
"Hehehe, it's okay Ash. Like I said before, I trust you. If I didn't, I wouldn't have taken it off," she giggled, embracing him in a hug. He cautiously returned the gesture as she rested her head on his shoulder, her lips right next to his ear to whisper, "besides, I know you've got more interest in... another part of me."
"Erm," he coughed, clearly not having a response.
"Everyone's got their kinks," Duskull popped in between them, "let's not kink shame. Shall we."
She watched the pure ghost type float away over towards the story corner and couldn't help but laugh at his little interjection. Holding her arm out, her powers grabbed her sleepwear which was piled up on the bed and pulled it into her arms. Holding them, she turned back to her bright red boyfriend.
"I'm gonna finish getting changed," she told him, "why don't you get comfort for when I'm done."
He nodded and scattered over to the bed. She couldn't help but giggle at how meek she could make him. He's faced down legendries, criminal organisations and stood on battle fields being watched by thousands... but she was the only one that could make him lose his cool like that.
Making her way into the bathroom, she used her powers to close the door behind and turn on bath tap. Water began to fill the tub as she brushed her teeth, placing the clothes on the closed toilet lid. When she saw the tub near full, she used her powers once more to stop it before finishing up with her night routine, washing her face and changing into her nightwear. Being sure to take off her bra, they are really uncomfortable to sleep in, but she knew that Ash wouldn't be able to handle such information. He barely survives her light teasing as it is. Using her powers to stack her clothes up into a neat pile, she took her final Pokéball and held it over the bath, releasing her Feebas into the water.
She couldn't help but smile at the sight of the fish Pokémon swimming around. While not as open as a lake or the ocean, she knew it would have to do, "sleep tight, Feebas. I'll come and check on you in the morning but if you need help before then you know what to do."
"Shout out with this mind message thing," Feebas replied, "thank you, Serena. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," she replied, standing up.
Using her powers to carry her clothes and the device out, she turned the light off in the bathroom but left the door open, so her pure water type wasn't completely separated. She pushed her clothes onto the backpack on the far side of the room and moved the Pokéball on the bedside table with the others.
Glancing ahead, she saw Ash lying on top of the covers, flicking through his Pokedex. Making her way over, she noticed most of the Pokémon had fallen asleep with few excepts. Treecko might've but he was in the same position as before. Hitmontop was still awake despite Meditite snoozing whilst resting against his shoulder. Pikachu had joined Sylveon in the air chair and Kabutops appeared to be awake, sat in the corner of the room, watching the others.
Reaching the bed, she climbed on and crawled over to Ash's side, snuggling in as he placed the device on his bedside table. They shared a few slow, passionate kisses before relaxing into a comfortable embrace with her head on his shoulder and hand over his heart, "what was you looking at?"
"Brain storming new moves for the guys to work on," he replied, "I think I've got something for Treecko and Corphish but not the others yet."
"Well, you'll think of something," she reassured him, "you always do."
"Thanks Serena," he replied, pulling her further into the embrace as his hand ran up and down her arm. With a smile on her face, she closed her eyes. Letting his soft breathing and heartbeat see her into a relaxing slumber, "goodnight, love you."
"Love you, too."
May took in a deep breath as she stepped forward into the cafeteria of the Pokémon centre. It was busy as ever with the fresh smell of the breakfast buffet filling her nose. Easily spotting her friends, already at a table, she made her way to the cue and picked up her own meal. A fresh stack of pancakes, covered in lemon juice and sugar.
Making her way over to them, she spotted several bowls of Pokémon food left on the floor. Placing her own tray on the table, she took out her team and let them out to enjoy their own meal. Smiling as they all dived into their breakfast, she sat down and indulged in her own meal.
Light chatter filled her ears as she took in the breakfast everyone else looked at what they were eating. Ash seemed to be on his second plate of a fully cooked breakfast, as he usually does, while Serena enjoyed an omelette. Brock was eating a simple toast with a cup of tea, and her brother had some bowl of cereal. As she took another large fork full of her pancakes, she saw the honey-blonde girl look at her and offer a small smile.
"So, May, how are you feeling about taking part in your first contest?" she asked.
"Good," she nodded, "with how hard Poochyena and Beautifly have worked... I actually feel like we can do this."
"That's a good attitude," she smiled, "if you don't believe you could win then you're limiting the possible outcomes to failure. And there's one more advantage you have that we haven't told you about yet."
"And what's that?" she asked.
"The fact it's your first contest," Serena explained, "just like gym leaders give a reasonable challenge based on the trainer's experience, the judges are aware of each individual coordinator's experience. They're easier on those on with less experience so you have the most leeway."
"Right!" she nodded, smiling as she realised that meant she had a massive advantage over her competition who already had contest experience.
They finished their breakfast and quickly made their way over towards the contest hall. May's eyes widened at the sight of the dome building. Dozens of people surrounded it as she felt her heart thumb against her chest.
"You nervous?" Serena asked, turning to face her.
"A little," she admitted, "I mean, I knew it would be in front of a crowd but-"
"But actually, being here is something else?" Serena finished her sentence.
"I know it can be intimidating May, it's like when I've performed on the leagues in front of the crowds," Ash added, "just ignore the crowd and focus on your opponent. If you forget about the people watching, then it's just another battle."
"Except the appeals stage doesn't have an opponent," Serena sighed, "but he's right. Best way to get over the crowd is ignoring them. Even in the appeals round, just focus on your Pokémon and you'll get through. The more time you spend on the stage, the easier it'll become."
"Thanks, you guys," she smiled, "I'm feeling better already."
"Well, we should go in and find our seats," Brock suggested, "and May, you should probably head back stage. They like to start pretty early."
"How come?" May asked.
"A particular regions contest circuit has a shorter period than the leagues do," Serena explained, "they're about fourteen contest halls and they each hold a contest once a week. That's two a day, one in the morning and one at night. This is how they're able give out ample chances for enough coordinator's to earn all five ribbons. With this tight time schedule, it's understandable why they are strict about following it."
"But what about travelling between the venues?" Max asked.
"They only need the host and two of the three judges," she replied, "as each venue has their own crew. But I think they use some psychic type to teleport."
"I guess that this is goodbye for now," May replied.
"Yeah," Serena nodded, "but once we've got our seats, I'll come and check on you. Make sure you're not letting it get the better of you."
"Thanks," she smiled.
With the others wishing her good luck as well, she watched them walk off towards the front entrance of the hall. Taking in one more deep breath of the salty sea air, she forced a smile onto her face, pushing the nerves aside and took off into the building. As she entered, it seemed a lot bigger on the inside with the cool aircon releasing a refreshing breeze against her skin. She noticed her friends already in the cue for the audience but made her way over to the backstage entrance where a worker stood with a clip board. After checking her credentials, she was escorted in to one of the waiting rooms.
It was a decent sized room with about a dozen coordinators already waiting, each having a Pokémon out, most of which she couldn't reconsign although she did notice a certain green haired boy tending to his Masquerain. Not wanting to lose her nerve, she picked a seat in the far corner of the room and took out her Pokéball, letting Beautifly out to rest on her knee. While they didn't say anything, having her partner there just made it feel easier.
"Welcome everyone to the Slateport contest! My name is Vivian and I'll be your host for today's contest!" a voice broke her concentration. Turning towards the source, she saw a television screen mounted on the wall. She saw a woman in probably her early thirties dressed in a pink dress you might expect at some sort of fancy due with long bushy orangey-brown hair and blue eyes on a stage, "we have a nice selection of 48 coordinators ready to dazzle you with their appeal performances. Of which, only four will move onto the battle round where they'll compete to win this, a Slateport ribbon! And once a coordinator wins a collection of five ribbons from the wonderful Hoenn region, they'll be eligible to compete in the grand festival for a chance to earn the title of top coordinator."
May took a deep breath as the camera zoomed over the crowd. Her hand trembling before Beautifly rubbed it with her stubby arms. She offered her bug flying type a comforting smile, and whispered, "thank you."
"So, let's start with introducing our judges for today's event," she continued, moving over to a stand with three seats, "first we have the head of our judging panel and the head of the contest committee, Mr Contesta. He's known to be fair but firm."
A light appeared overhead, revealing a much older man dressed in a red velvet blazer with slick grey hair, "a pleasure as always to visit this sunny town."
"Next we have the president of the Pokémon fan club," she continued, "Mr Sukizo."
With another light appearing over the middle seat, a much shorter man appeared in a navy-blue suit, "I'm sure everyone will be remarkable!"
"And finally, Slateport city's own Nurse Joy!" Vivian announced as the last seat lit up to reveal the head of the Pokémon centre, "now without further ado we'll welcome our first contestant to the stage! From Foretree city, we have Emma Shorthouse!"
A girl slightly older than herself ran out and tossed a Pokéball into the air. It burst open to reveal a Marshtomp, which she recognised from her battle with Brendan. Although a slight cough, with someone clearing their throat drew her attention away from the screen... only to see Drew stood next to her his bug flying type flying behind him.
"Yo," he greeted, "I see you made it."
"Hello Drew," she muttered.
"I'm glad you'll be able to watch my performance," he smirked, "that'll be some true art."
"Did you just come here to brag?" she asked.
"No, as a talented coordinator, I've come here to cheer you on," he replied, "I, at the very least, want you to make it to the battle round."
"You... do?" she blinked.
"Of course," he flicked his hair, "after all, your Serena's pupil. If I defeat you then I'll be really making a name for myself. That's how it goes when you have a talented mentor guiding you throughout the competition."
"I guess Serena's a pretty big deal," she uttered. She couldn't be sure why, of course she knew that she competed in contests back in Johto but is that all it takes? Maybe contests are easier than she originally thought.
"You really don't know?" he asked, "how did you snag someone like her as a mentor anyway?"
"Well, I-"
She was cut off by a stagehand walking into the room, "calling Drew Shū for the appeals performance."
"I guess that's my cue," he shrugged, quickly recalling his Masquerain, "don't wait up."
She couldn't bring herself to reply as he disappeared out of the room. Disappearing around the corner, she turned her attention towards the screen again.
Serena frowned as she watched the current performance. It was a young boy with an Azurill, who was putting on a sparkling water display. It was far from the best performance today, but it certainly wasn't bad. As she watched the show continue, her mind thought back to the brown-haired girl.
"Are you alright, babe?" she turned to see Ash asking, concern filling his eyes, "you seem nervous."
"I'm worried for May," she explained, "she hasn't had the most confidence in herself and-"
"That was a dazzling display by Marcus and Azurill but let's see what our judges thought," Vivian announced.
"-and I'm worried for her," she continued, "I remember how nerve wracking it can be watching everyone else perform whilst waiting for your turn."
"I wouldn't be too concerned for her," Ash replied, leaning his head into the creek of her neck. Placing a small, affectionate kiss, he whispered, "after all, she's had a really great teacher for the appeals performance and after yesterday, she's more than ready for the battle round."
"Hmm, thanks Ash," she cooed, resting her head on his shoulder, cooing under his show of affection.
She turned back to the stage to see the young boy walking off with his Azurill hopping beside him. He hardly seemed over the moon with the appraisal but from the little bit she did hear, it was clear the performance was underwhelming. Not bad but not nearly enough to make a solid impression. Sometimes that's how the cookie crumbles. She honestly felt bad because he certain seemed to have enthusiasm for the contest circuit if nothing else.
"Now help me welcome a well-known coordinator who's already won three ribbons and is looking to add a fourth to his collection today," Vivian announced, "he comes all the way from LaRousse city, it's Drew!"
The green haired boy they previously met walked out on stage. Dressed in the same smart outfit, a confident smirk was plastered on his face as he held the small Pokéball between his fingers. He stopped centre stage as the crowd cheered. It was clear he was waiting for silence before continuing.
"Showtime, Masquerain!" Drew shouted, tossing his Pokéball into the air.
In a flash of light, his bug flying type appeared on the stage, spinning through the air, he covered the stage whilst shooting out a bubble. Several large bubbles covered the stage as the eyeball Pokémon stopped in between them.
Raising his two antennas, they began vibrating with a semi-transparent wave shooting out. It popped the bubbles, with the hundreds of droplets sparkling.
"Now silver wind!" Drew commanded.
Flying to the back of the stage, he began flapping his wings. Sending a sparkling wind across the stage. Grabbing the droplets before they hit the floor, they were sent flying across the entire audience with some of them hitting Serena and most everyone else in the audience.
"And they spread out the light sprinkle across the entire audience," Vivian explained, "a perfect way to cool off during a hot Slateport day! And beautiful too."
Masquerain landed at the centre of the stage and burst out in water. Shooting up into the air, he performed several sharp movements, leaving a water trail.
It was almost like a water piece of artwork was created over the stage before he shot down. Smashing into the stage, a single beam shot straight up as the water erupted around him. The two attacks contrasted nicely creating a sort of water volcano display.
"Now to finish it up," Drew shouted, raising his hand high into the air.
The bug flying type floated high into the middle of the air above the stage. Spinning around, he sent out a thick string, creating webbing all over the stage.
As the webbing stopped, Drew's fully evolved Pokémon stopped. Flapping his wings once more, a powerful icy wind covered the stage. Surrounding the webbing just created. An icy piece of artwork was left.
"Air cutter!" he called.
Spinning on the spot, one by one sharp slashes through the air shot out in different directions. Smashing into the icy webs, they smashed into pieces.
The ice sparkles dropped over the stage as all the webbing imploded at once. Lowering down onto Drew's open hand, the sparkles shimmered against the eyeball Pokémon's scales. The lights only adding to the dazzling display.
Serena hated to admit it but that was really good. It almost reminded her of the appeals performance she put on with Ledian back in Eckruteak.
"What a beautiful display by Drew and his Masquerain!" Vivian announced as she made her way back onto the stage, "so let's see what our judges thought!"
"It was certainly dazzling and showed of a large variety of moves!" Mr Contesta praised, "well done, you keep improving from one contest to the next!"
"It was remarkable!" Mr Sukizo added, with his regular bright smile.
"Masquerain's shiny scales show that he's in good health," Nurse Joy added, "it was very well put together to show him off as well."
Drew smiled and gave a bow with Masquerain resting on his head. A confident smirk resting on his face as the crowd erupted around her. She watched him walk off stage. While she hated to admit it, he was a very talented coordinator. That was the best performance so far.
"And now help me welcome Kelly Kanata from Lilycove city!" Vivian announced.
A girl around May's age walked out with purple hair and dressed in some farmer overalls although she didn't take in the coordinator's appearance fully. She stood up and turned towards her friends. Putting a smile on her face they seemed to relax.
"Hey guys, I'm gonna check on May," Serena told her friends, "going near the last of the appeals can be pretty nerve wrecking."
None of them seemed to be bothered and after receiving a peck on the cheek from Ash, she took off out of the audience.
May took a deep breath as she stood at the bottom of the stairs. After Drew's performance finished, she was called up to perform and luckily, she didn't run into him on the way. She stood at the bottom of a set of stairs as a boy with his Taillow ran down and past her.
"And now making her contest debut, from Petalburg city we have May Maple," Vivian announced, "please help make her feel welcome!"
She heard the crowd cheering but tried to block it out. Taking a deep breath, her hand wrapped around the Pokéball, and she made her way up the stairs. The lights were blinding but she squinted and made her way to centre stage and tossed the Pokéball up, "Take the stage, Beautifly!"
"Beeeeeautifly!" her bug flying type cried, fluttering her wings, and flying above the stage.
"String shot!" she called.
Spinning on the spot above the stage, she shouts a thick string out of her proboscis. It circled around as it fell, sparkling between her scales and the stage lights.
"Alright now hit this!" she shouted, grabbing a frisbee. Tossing it towards her butterfly Pokémon.
With a flick of the head, she used the string to whip the flying disc. It completely turned around and May caught it. With a smile on her face, she felt the energy run through her as everything other than herself and Beautifly disappeared.
"And again!" she hollered.
Running forward she through the frisbee overhead. Beautifly stopped her original string shot and quickly fired another. It struck the disc and with another spin, she sent it back towards her. Having to leap a little, she caught it once more.
"Alright and now for the big finish!" she shouted, tossing the disc once more
Beautifly turned as it flew past. Flapping her wings, she dropped a golden powder into the gust. A sparkling wind flew over the stage.
It struck the disc head on and sent it flying on the sparkling display. Shooting out a third string shot, it struck the disc as it flew over the audience. With a massive tug, she turned it around, but it took a wide berth.
May took off over the stage and made a leap. She grabbed the disc out of the air and performed a forward summersault. Landing on one knee.
With a deep breath she held it up as she stood up, the crowd erupting into cheers.
"What a wonderful show of skill and playfulness from our new coordinator's!" Vivian announced, "but let's see what our judges thought."
"It certain flew nicely but that last move seemed a little unpolished," Mr Contesta critiqued, "an adequate first performance, considering."
"I thought it was remarkable," Mr Sukizo smiled.
"Beautifly certainly seemed to be having fun," Nurse Joy beamed, "and I feel that's the most important part."
"Well now it's time we move onto our next contestant!" Vivian announced.
Taking the cue, she ran off the stage with Beautifly flying beside her. She barely made it around the corner, the noise dying out as she disappeared, only to find Serena waiting with a smile on her face.
"Well done, May," she smiled, "that went great."
"B-but... what about what was said about the last move?" she asked, "the head judge called it unpolished."
"That's not necessarily a bad thing," Serena smiled, "they like it when coordinator's take risks. Even if you missed the catch, you would've been given some points for attempting it. And since this was your first appeals performance ever, I think they'll judge you favourably."
"Thank you, Serena," she sighed.
"Your very welcome," she smiled, "but come on, let's head back."
Nodding in agreement, they set off towards the dressing room. As they passed a screen mounted in the corridor, she noticed the final coordinator leaving the stage as Vivian reappeared once more, "and now we'll have a short intermission while our judges decide which four coordinator's will move on."
"Man... it's over," May sighed, "it's a weird feeling."
"It's not over, May," Serena replied, "we still have the results to come in but that was only the appeals round. Don't count yourself out-"
"Couldn't have said it better myself," a familiar voice butted in. She turned around to see Vivian stood with a smile on her face.
"Hi," she greeted, in a pitch higher than she would've liked.
"No need to be nervous," she smiled, glancing over to the honey-blonde girl, "and it's a pleasure to meet, Serena."
"You know me?" her cerulean-eyed girl blinked, clearly taken back.
"Of course," she smiled, "it might be my little sister who hosts over in Kanto and Johto, but I keep up-to-date on prominent coordinators. Shame you aren't competing, it would've been fun to have someone of your level."
"I'm competing in showcases at the moment," she replied, "but I remember meeting Lilian a couple times during Johto. She was nice."
"She's a good kid, but a little too energetic for my tastes," Vivian replied, "but I suppose that's the age difference between us."
"Well, it's nice to meet you," Serena held her hand out, to which the host shook.
The orangey-brown haired women took out her phone as she gave some simple replies before giving a quick apology and disappearing down the corridor. They turned towards the screen as it cut back to Vivian where she announced the top four coordinator's.
Much to May's relief, she was on that list but... so was Drew and he happened to be her first opponent.
May took a deep breath as she stood at the bottom of the stairs, the audience could be heard as bright light shone down. She clenched her fist over her heart as she trembled. Taking a deep breath, she remembered the last bit of advice Serena gave her.
"I've just got to remain calm," she told herself, "just focus on Poochyena and the battle, letting the audience fade away."
"And now folks, it's time we move onto the first top four battle!" Vivian announced, "we're in for a treat, folks as we have two aspiring coordinators! First, from LaRousse city is Drew Shū. From a powerful family, Drew spent the first few years as a trainer, preparing for his debut in the contest circuit and has made a name for himself by winning the first three contests he's competed in so give let's give him a big hand!"
She felt her heart stop as the loud applause echoed through the building. Her hand tightened around the Pokéball, and her shakes became worst. She took another deep breath, but it wasn't nearly as effective. She could just imagine his smug look at the praise before the battle even begun.
"Now for our second coordinator, a first timer who made an amazing appeals performance with her Beautifly is May Maple from Petalburg city!" Vivian continued, as the crowd quietened, "she's not only the daughter of one of Hoenn's gym leader's! The normal type specialist Norman but I recently learnt she's been under the tutorship of Serena Yvonne! Who many of you might remember from last year's Johto grand festival so let's give her hand!"
With the spotlights at top of the stairs, she bites the bullet and began slowly walking out over the stage. Blinded by the light, she could barely make out the audience, but the roaring applause reminded her of their presence. Apparently, having Serena as a mentor was some sort of big deal. She made her way across the stage as she looked back across the plain stage with lines marking out the field, similar to the battle room in her father's gym. Her eyes locked on Drew, who stood tall in the opposite trainer's box, with a Pokéball in hand and smirk on his face. She took a hard swallow as the crowd rested.
"This will be a one-on-one contest battle between Drew and May!" Vivian explained, "for those of you who don't already know, a contest battle is one where the aim is to show off your own Pokémon whilst battling! Our judges will be removing points as applicable until either side hits zero! Of course, they could also win through running out the five-minute time limit, in which case the coordinator with the most points remaining shall win! So, let's see who'll be battling! A quick reminder that each coordinator registered their selected Pokémon before hand and are now unable to switch!"
"Roselia! Let's go now!" Drew shouted as he tossed his Pokéball.
In a flash of light, his grass and poison type appeared out of the device and in the air. Spinning as he flew, he landed on both legs before giving a curtsy towards the audience. As he turned to face her, May couldn't help but notice he was also panting lightly already... was something wrong with him?
"Poochyena! Take the stage!" she shouted.
Tossing her own Pokéball into the air, her dark type canine appeared in front of her. With his tongue hanging out, he was heavily panting, hopping back and forth as he sized up their opponent. Smirking, he crouched low and let out a small growl.
"Drew has gone with his Roselia, while May has her Poochyena! Neither side has a type advantage so it'll come down to the skill and training each coordinator has undertook with their team!" Vivian explained, although May noticed she frowned as she examined the two. Her bite Pokémon let out a bark, as if snapping her out of the look of consumption, "well it seems one of them is certainly ready so with five minutes on the clock, we'll begin!"
A beep sounded across the stage. Her eyes glanced up to the large screen between them which showed an image of both May, herself, and Drew, each having a yellow bar underneath them, and the number 100 on the outside. A digital timer appeared at the centre of bottom of the screen and began counting down.
Drew VS May: Top Four
Her dark type didn't waste a second, letting out a high-pitched howl he bolted across the stage. His shiny fur coat shimmering under the stage lights. It was Ash's idea for him to start with it regardless of opponent, giving him a slight boost throughout the battle.
Roselia smirked as he ran towards him. Twirling to the side, her dark type canine missed his tackle, while the grass poison type launched out a brown seed.
The seed landed on Poochyena's back and extended out in vines, covering his body. A red light engulfed him, as a mystic shine covered the thorn Pokémon.
He growled in anger as he attempted to bite through the vines. As he torn one part off, the vine just re-grew in place.
"And it seems Drew has already caught May and Poochyena off guard!" Vivian announced, "that's hurt their points already."
Casting a glance up to the board, she saw her bar reduce down. With her number dropping to eight-seven.
"Now use petal dance, Roselia!" Drew shouted.
Roselia began spinning around the stage like some sort of dance was taking place. A powerful wind spun around them as he shot out a barrage of pink petals, covering the field and blocking her vision of the stage. Despite trying to view the stage, she couldn't make out anything other than her dark types whimpers.
"Odor Sleuth then move in for the attack, Poochyena!" she cried out.
It took a couple of moments, but the pink petals settled over the stage. Revealing her bite Pokémon on top of Roselia, who's on flat on his back.
Biting down on the grass poison type, he shook his head around. Using the thorn Pokémon like some sort of chew toy.
"Poison powder!" Drew shouted.
Despite being roughed around, Roselia was able to aim his red bouquet towards his face. A cloud of purple dust shouts out and covered both Pokémon.
Poochyena dropped the grass poison type, and backed up, coughing. A purple line appeared on his snout as Roselia pushed himself up. A red colour engulfed her dark type as he cried out in pain, the same mystic healing colour covering Drew's Pokémon.
"Now Magical Leaf!" Drew commanded.
Roselia pushed himself up and began spinning. A barrage of bright green glowing leaves shot towards him. Her eyes widened as she remembers Ash's idea.
"Use dig!" she commanded, "just like we practiced yesterday!"
Her bite Pokémon leaped forward, performing a spin in the air. The magical leaves hit him, but it seemed to cut off the red glow. Cutting through the vines on her own Pokémon, they fell onto the stage as Poochyena dived into the stage.
Roselia stopped in place and fell down onto one knee. Panting heavily, he squeezed his eyes shut in clear pain.
A slight crack appeared in the floor and her dark type canine shot up underneath him. Biting down on the thorn Pokémon, he sent him flying.
"And again!" she commanded.
Summersaulting through the air, he dived straight through the floor. Roselia rolled across the floor. Coming to a halt, he slowly tried to push himself up.
Poochyena shot up from behind the grass poison type, leaping high in the air. Shooting straight down, he tackled their opponent. Sending the thorn Pokémon across the stage. Rolling just in front of Drew, swirls replaced his eyes as the arrogant boy kneeled down and scooped him up. A loud buzzer sounded.
"And Roselia has been determined unable to continue!" Vivian announced, "making the winners May and Poochyena, who'll be moving on to the final."
May glanced up to the screen to see she had less than half her points remaining while Drew had over half, with nearly two minutes remaining. Although the screen quickly cut to a yellow sparkling screen with an image of May and one of Poochyena. A multicoloured 'winners' title appearing underneath.
She felt a pit at the bottom of her stomach as she felt something hit her. Turning towards the source, she saw her Poochyena with his paws on her knees.
Smiling down at him, she kneeled and picked him up. Receiving several affectionate licks on her cheek. A joyous giggle escaped her lips as she scratched the top of his head.
"Now we'll ask our coordinators to move backstage as we reset the field for the last match," Vivian announced, "after a quick intermission, we'll be ready to see which of these remaining coordinators will be taking home the Slateport ribbon!"
May made her way back stage, still receiving licks from her pure dark type. A slight cough caught her attention and she turned to see Drew leaning against a wall with his eyes closed and frown on his face.
"I guess I showed you that I do have what it takes to be a coordinator," she declared, feeling a sense of pride in herself.
"Hardly," he scoffed, "you should know that they take a coordinator's experience into account. Roselia and myself were judged much harder than yourself because I've already won some ribbons. Not to mention, Roselia was still suffering from his battle with Taillow yesterday."
"So why let him battle?" she asked.
"Simple," he flicked his hair, turning around, "I already registered him as my battle partner beforehand."
"If you explained the situation then they would've allowed a substitution!" she called out, "the assistant explained it when I registered myself!"
"Maybe but none of my other Pokémon have the same battle experience," he replied, "either way, you only won because of those you travel with. Tell me, was that appeals performance all Serena's idea?"
He didn't appear to wait for an answer, setting off down the corridor. She glanced down at the dark type in her arms, letting his words sink in. Seeing him whimper she began walking towards the waiting rooms. Her thoughts began eating away at her as she stepped inside, instantly catching sight of Serena, the honey-blonde girl made her way over as she took one of the empty seats. She kneeled next to them with a frown on her face.
"What's the matter, May?" she asked, "I would've expected you to be over the moon."
"I ran into Drew," she whispered, "he made it clear that I only won because of you and Ash. After all, you heard the audience, they only bothered about who I was because you're helping me... I guess you're a bigger deal in the contest circuit than I thought."
"First of all, May, we need to help Poochyena," she replied, sliding her backpack off, and opening it up, pulling out a peacha berry and a potion. May accepted the pink fruit and slowly held it for her canine to eat. As he slowly started eating, she sprayed the potion on him, "after all, you don't want him to feel the effects of his battle with Roselia whilst in the final."
"Thanks, Serena," she replied.
"And about what Drew said, you don't need to worry about a jerk like him," she replied, "I had a rival in Johto like him. From a rich family so she thought that she could buy or bully whoever got in her way. Just remember that friends are here to help you, that doesn't make you any less of a coordinator."
"B-but" she stuttered, "but he also said that we only won because Roselia was still tired after his battle with Ash yesterday... a-and the points-"
"Then it's his mistake for not even trying to switch his Roselia out," Serena cut her off, "as long as it's before the appeals round begins, a coordinator is able to switch out their registered Pokémon because of such events. Any trainer's first priority should be their Pokémon's well-being, coordinator or other wise."
She had her teeth sink into her lower lip as heard what Serena had to say. She really has become a real friend for her. As she relaxed at the thought, her mind wondered over to the original meeting with her. A lump formed in her throat as she remembered that first day as a trainer.
"Hey Serena..." she paused, fiddling her fingers together, "I have something I need to tell you."
"What is it, May?" she asked, "and maybe you should let Poochyena rest in his Pokéball whilst we talk."
"Right, erm," she nodded, quickly recalling her dark type, "anyway... I have something to tell you, Serena. Actually, it's something I should've told you a long time ago."
The honey-blonde girl placed a hand on her's. She ran a thumb over the back of her hand in a comforting manner. A sincere smile on her face.
"Y-you see... back on my first day as a trainer," she paused taking a deep breath, "during the training session Ash gave us. Me, Sawyer, and Brendan. I... I kinda took his kindest as something else. He took care to help me, more than the boys, with understanding all this stuff. I... I guess I thought he was being nice because he liked me but now, I know he's just that nice to everyone. What I'm trying to say is... I developed a crush on him."
She cast her eyes downward, unable to look her in the eye. The older girl's hand didn't retreat, giving her the reassurance to continue on.
"Then I met you and at first I was jealous," she continued, "I-I mean, your older, pretty, a successful trainer and you was dating my new crush. Don't worry, I'm over it now and... that's why I'm telling you. I don't want any secrets between us, any of us."
"So, I'm guessing the next thing your gonna say is," Serena replied, "that Ash already knew this."
"How-" she went to ask. Looking up with wide eyes and mouth slightly dropping.
"Did I know?" she finished the question, "don't worry, Ash didn't tell me. I'm guessing he made a promise not to and he keeps his promises."
"You're not mad?" May asked.
"I don't see a reason for me to be," she shrugged, "I mean. It wasn't Ash's secret to tell, and I know he wouldn't have pursued it. You can't help who you have feelings for or when they develop. As far as I'm concerned, you did nothing wrong."
"Right... thank you," she replied, receiving a hug from the cerulean-eyed girl, "but how did you know?"
"I worked it out," Serena smiled, "that night when Ash caught Duskull. Ash might not have told me what happened, but he became more affectionate. It wasn't for long, maybe a week or two, but it was like he was trying to reassure me of something. Couple that with your not so obvious hints the first couple days and it was a pretty easy guess."
"Was I really that obvious?" May asked.
"Not to the others," she smiled, "but having been your age with a crush. I could see it a mile away."
The two girls smiled at each other as May felt a massive weight lifted of her chest, "thank you for not being mad."
"Like I said, you did nothing wrong," she replied, "had you continued to purse it though... then I might've been mad."
She laughed at the way the honey-blonde girl said it, but the laughter quickly died in her voice as she realised someone with her abilities is not someone, you'd want to get onto the wrong side off. Before they could continue it any further, though, a voice broke her concentration.
"May Maple," a stage worker poked her head into the dressing room, "the final is about to begin."
Nodding in understanding, she stood up and gave her friend one last look. Serena's meant voice appeared in her head to wish her good luck as she set off out of the room and down the corridor. This time she was moved over to the other side of the stage, waiting bottom of the stair as the atmosphere returned.
"And now folks it's time we move onto our final match of the day!" Vivian's voice echoed, "both of our final coordinator's have proven their stuff thus far to make it but are also both aiming to win their very first contest ribbon! So first of, we have May Maple from Petalburg city!"
She made her way up the stairs and across the stage with the lights still blinding her. Despite the loud applause threatening to burst her ears, she was able to take the atmosphere in. As she reached the trainers box, she relaxed in place... she could really get use to this.
"And second we have Kelly Kanata from Lilycove city!" she continued.
The applause erupted once more but May inwardly smirked as she felt it less impactful than her own welcoming. Her attention focused on the other side of the stage as she took in the girl's appearance. Kelly appeared to be a similar age to May with long light purple hair, tied up in a ponytail with a large pink bow. She was dressed in turquoise blue overalls and a black undershirt, which seemed to resemble a farmer's outfit. Looking at her face, May saw nervousness.
"This will be a one-on-one contest battle between our two finalists!" Vivian explained, "both trainers have already registered their Pokémon and its whichever one reduces their opponents points to zero first shall be declared the winner! So, let's see who'll partake in this final match today!"
"Poochyena, take the stage!" May shouted, tossing her Pokéball up.
In a flash of light, her pure dark type canine appeared on the stage. He let out a bark as he crouched low, growling threateningly. He certainly seemed to be in better condition, even if not up to full health. She cast a glance at her opponent, who seemed conflicted before holding her Pokéball up.
"Go Spoink!" Kelly shouted.
She took in the appearance of the small Pokémon that appeared in front of her. It was a primary grey colour. With dark, circular eyes, a large grey nose, and small ears. It had small stubby arms, which looked more like small wings akin to her Torchic... at least to her. It possessed no hind legs but it's bottom half was a circular spring-like tail. On top of it's head, placed between the two small ears, was a pink pearl. She had to admit that it was very cute, as she pulled out her Pokedex to scan it:
Spoink, The Bounce Pokémon. Spoink bounces around on its tail. It was once thought that the bouncing on it's tail powered it's heartbeat but scientist recently discovered that it's tail movement are merely links. If the tail is forced to stop, it doesn't stop the heartbeat directly.
"So, we have a duel between Poochyena and Spoink!" Vivian announced, "with May having a clear type of advantage, we've seen such things be overcome before so the only way to know what'll happen is to get down to business! With five minutes on the clock, we'll begin!"
As she glanced to the side, seeing the screen set up once more, just like before but with Kelly's image instead. Feeling good that she'll have the type of advantage, she saw the timer start ticking down.
May verses Kelly: Final
She watched as her dark type ran out across the field, howling with a glowing light. Taking great leaps as his mouth foamed with dark type energy, fangs flaring. He closed in on the pure psychic type, making one last pounce as he prepared to land on their opponent.
However, Spoink bounced high out of the way, avoiding his attack. Landing right behind the Poochyena as he stood up from the landing.
Kicking his feet back a pile of sand went flying towards the pure psychic type.
She launched a multicoloured beam out of her pearl and stopped the sand mid-air. Spinning around, she spun the sand with her before sending it back.
"Dig!" May shouted.
Poochyena buried underground, narrowly avoiding the sand attack. While Spoink ended her attack, bouncing around in a clear attempt to dodge.
As she landed on the ground, a crack appeared behind her. Her dark type shot out and tackled the bounce Pokémon to the ground, knocking the pearl away.
The pure dark type pounced forward, swiping the pearl of the ground. Shaking his head around, he launched the pearl off the battlefield, just below the screen. Turning towards his opponent, he growled threateningly as Spoink stood back up.
"Zen headbutt!" Kelly shouted.
She bounced forward with a blue ball of psychic type energy at her head where the pearl once sat. With the canine closing his eyes due to the bright light, she flew overhead and over Poochyena. Landing next to her jewel, she used a psybeam to pick it back up.
Casting a glance to the screen, she saw a mere five-point difference. Even if Spoink can't hurt Poochyena, she can still take points away.
"Alright Poochyena, let's go in with another dig!" she instructed.
Her dark type canine nodded and buried underground once more. She watched as the psychic type hopped back towards the middle of the field.
Looking directly across to the purple haired coordinator, she watched her eyes carefully scanning the field. Doing the same, she saw another crack form.
"Jump now!" Kelly shouted.
Her bounce Pokémon leaped high into the air as Poochyena shot up behind her. He couldn't even make it halfway toward the psychic type, landing on all fours.
Watching her opponent, she saw the pure psychic type readjust her landing path, "tackle to the left!"
Poochyena shot to the side and collided with Spoink as she touched the ground. Straddling on top of the pure psychic, he bites down on her body. Shaking his head, he sent their opponent flying across the field. Without missing a beat, he leaped after and ended up straddling her once more.
A loud beeper sounded.
"And one side has lost all points!" Vivian announced, "the winner of this match is... May Maple from Petalburg city!"
Her breath stuck in her throat as the crowd erupted in cheers. Despite seeing them, her ears wouldn't allow her to hear them. With her heart thumbing against her chest, she felt the small patter of paws against her legs as she saw Poochyena begging to be picked up.
It felt like a whirlwind, she was taken of stage by a worker after the call but was instructed to remain put. She could see the battlefield as a cover hovered over it, revealing the plan stage from before. Vivian ran back onto the stage with a microphone in hand. Through the stagehand's instructions, she released her Beautifly, who rest on her head as Poochyena stood by her side, tongue hanging out with heavy panting and a wide smile over his lips.
"And now for our closing ceremony," the host declared, "so first help me in welcoming our judges to the stage."
A series of cheers and claps could be heard as the three judges walked up from their seats. Mr Contesta was stood slightly in front with a pillow in his hands although she couldn't make out what was on it.
"And now to welcome our winner and the other coordinator's who made up our top four placements! As well as their Pokémon partners!"
She made her way onto the stage as her Pokémon stayed by her side. She stopped on the edge of once side as she watched Kelly, Drew and the other top four finalist walk on with Spoink, Roselia and a Makuhita, respectively. She watched as the judge in a red blazer stepped forward, holding his pillow out as a ribbon sat in the middle. It was a dark blue on the inner ribbon with a lighter blue lining, and a silver centre button holding it together.
"Congratulations, May," he praised, "for a first timer, you proved to be quiet the coordinator. I believe that you're going to go far, especially with who your mentor is but be warned. If you wish to make a name for yourself than a mentor can only take you so far. Regardless of who they are."
"Thank you, sir," she whispered, taking the ribbon off the pillow. Holding it in her hand, she glanced up to see Beautifly cooing in congratulations while her pure dark type barked happily. She couldn't stop the wide smile from over taking her face as clenched her fist around the prize.
This is her first step as a coordinator.
"Well folks, that wraps up this week's Slateport contest! I've been your host Vivian and I look forward to seeing all of you," she announced, "and all of our wonderful coordinator's at the next contest!"
With the crowd erupting in cheers, May soaked in every moment until the stage lights turned off. Realising the cue to clear the stage, she turned around and saw the three judges walking off to the left as the other coordinator's went down the right. Quickly running to catch up, she just made it behind the scenes as the lights around the audience turned out. The patter of feet echoing as she heard them clearing out the viewing area.
"So, you were able to win a ribbon, after all," Drew's voice cut through her. She turned to see the green-haired boy, "I won't deny you got lucky, just like I said before. Had Roselia been at full force or had Kelly used any type other than a psychic and things might've turned out differently."
"What are you saying?" she asked.
"I'm trying to say you did better than I anticipated," he replied. Flicking his wrist, a red rose appeared in front of her, "go on, take it. Beautifly and Poochyena deserve it after the work they put in."
"So, this is for them?" she asked absent mindlessly, accepting the flower as she stared longingly into it.
"Something like that," he replied, "just remember that luck won't carry you everywhere. Now that people know your being mentored by someone like Serena, they'll be gunning to take you down. It's the quickest way for one coordinator to make a name for themselves."
She turned her gaze upward only to see the boy walking away. Part of her wanted to call out but her voice died in her throat. He silently raised a hand up, as he disappeared down the corridor. She felt her cheeks heat up but before they could fully blush, Serena appeared with a smile on her face.
"Congratulations, May," Serena praised, stopping as she turned her attention towards the rose, "what's that?"
"Oh erm, Drew just gave it to me," she whispered, "well... he said it was for Beautifly and Poochyena."
"Just be careful around guys like him," she whispered, "he seemed like a real jerk and those kinds of guys only look out for one person."
"How would you know?" she asked, as they set off down the corridor, "I thought Ash was your one and only love."
"He is," she nodded, "but we've got a friend. Gary. He's in Kanto studying as a professor's assistant under Professor Oak right now. And for a long time, he was a massive jerk to everyone. He only recently changed but knowing what he was like... I just want to keep you safe, alright."
"Alright," she sighed, "so what are we doing now?"
"Well, me and you will head back to the Pokémon centre so we can get these two healed up," Serena explained, gesturing to her two Pokémon, "and while we do that, the boy's have gone to top up on supplies. Then we'll head out once more this afternoon. Make a head start on the trail to Vurdenturf."
"What's the rush?" she asked, "I thought we had plenty of time to make it there."
"We do but there's a slight detour we're gonna make on the way," she smiled, "it's for Max, really. Brock and I thought he'd enjoy it and I'll bet we'd all have fun there."
"Don't make me hold my breath," she smiled, "what is this place?"
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...