Author's Note:
Here it is, the contest chapter and May's date with Drew. Well not exactly, it'll be more of a fade to black sort of thing. I'm wondering how many people like the idea of May being with Drew rather than Brendan. We also get more of a look in on Lileep. I hope you guys like this, and we also notice the set-up of May's next major character arc. For those wondering, this was an arc she went on through the actual anime, but I imagine some won't like the direction she goes. We also say bye to Sakura for the time being, but she'll be back, she is competing in both contests and the league, after all. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.
Chapter Forty-Six: Rustboro Contest: Sakura It Off
She let out a loud yawn as her arms stretched upwards. Arching her back in one movement, she blinked awake and glanced around her room. The sunlight shone through her window as a peaceful from the outside world added to the tranquil feeling.
A smile formed on her lips as she glanced around the room, her team scattered around her. Mawile was curled up in the armchair, a pink blanket wrapped around her, lightly tossing, and pulling the cloth to cover her face. With Minun wrapped up right next to her. Skitty was curled up at the end of her bed, lying on her bed. Smiling at the sight of the usual ball of energy just peaceful. Spoink was off in the corner, levitating with psychic energy surrounding him, his little spring bouncing along, silent as it flopped through the air. Glancing out of the window once more, she noticed Swablu perched peacefully on the windsil as the sight of a trainer practising some performance with a Breloom. Remembering the contest just hours away, she leaped out of bed.
Running into the bathroom, she started her morning routine. Whilst brushing her teeth, she glanced to the side to see her newest team member. Lileep was sat in the bathtub with a light trail of water surrounding her. The yellow eyes not visible, which led her to believe she was still asleep.
She got the idea of letting her rest like this from Roxanne. After visiting her gym once done at the Devon corp, she gave some great notes on caring for her newest team member. While she specialises in rock types, she also seemed to have a sub-speciality in resurrected fossil Pokémon as well.
"Eep."
Turning to the side, she noticed the grass rock type slivering towards her. Smiling she spat the reminence into the sink, rinsing her mouth with a cup of water from the tap. Once done, she put everything down and kneeled next to the tub. Lileep extended her body up, rubbing the purple tentacles against her cheek.
"Hehehehe, that tickles," she giggled. Reaching to the underside of her presumed head, she scratched her new team member as she moved back. A cooing noise radiating from the sea lily Pokémon, "I'm glad to see you're in a good mood this morning Lileep."
"Lileep!"
"So, I wanted to speak to you today," she smiled, "you see, today I'm going to compete in a thing called a contest. It's a chance for trainers to show off their Pokémon and make them look really pretty. I want you to watch with my friends, so you get the chance to see if it's something you'd like to do."
"Eep, Lileep."
"Okay good," she smiled, "I'll ask Serena to keep you company. You remember her from dinner last night, right?"
The grass rock types eyes turned into upside down semi-circles as she nodded. Her tentacles extended once more rubbing against her cheek. She giggled as she appreciated the show off affection. She is kinda like Mightyena in that she isn't shy to show such signs but due to her smaller body, it's easier to manage, and she doesn't nearly knock her over with being so affectionate... she briefly wondered how everyone at her parents were getting on.
She already knew her mother liked to spend time with Clamperl, she'd tell her how the water type would sit on the counter when she cooked or performed any task. Chatting away like two old friends. While she could imagine both Combusken and Mightyena enjoying the chance to battle many of her father's team. It was only really Beautifly she didn't have much of an idea about, but given she only went over yesterday, that can't be too much of a surprise.
Standing up she quickly got herself ready for the day and woke up her team. Checking everyone was ready, she returned them all except Swablu, who opted to perch on her shoulder. Making her way downstairs, she assumed the others were already awake and in the cafeteria. As she ventured through the lobby, she noticed a familiar boy by the desk collecting some Pokéballs from a chance, he turned to face her. Eyes went wide and glanced down to the floor, his head turning in the same direction. His hands threw into his pockets as he slowly approached.
"Oh, hey May," his voice shaky as his feet shuffled in place, "I erm... good luck. In your contest I mean."
"Thanks Brendan," she whispered.
"A-and..." he paused, visibly swallowing, "I-I wanted to apologise... for just leaving yesterday. I... just sorry."
He quickly bolted from the spot, rocketing out of the front door. With a deep breath, she placed a hand on her chest. Her heart thumped against her chest as she gave a longing glance where he disappeared too. With a sigh, she shook her head and turned back towards her original direction.
Heading into the cafeteria, she soon found her friends in the middle of breakfast. Grabbing some food herself, she released her team to join them in the morning meal. The conversation was light, Ash mentioned making a couple stops on the way back to Petalburg so both Grovyle and Taillow could visit their original homes, but they were happy to let her run through her contest plan on her own. None of them really bothering her.
Soon they set out from the centre and crossed the city. Arriving at the first contest hall they ever visited. Of course, back then it held Serena's first showcase but now it was her turn. Reaching to the belt, she gripped Skitty's Pokéball. Glancing to the side, Swablu still perched on her shoulder.
With a deep breath, she smiled and turned to her friends. They bid each other goodbye, and she handed over Lileep's Pokéball to her female friend. She watched them set off towards the audience gallery and followed inside. Heading towards the backstage entrance, she smiled at the sight of the person leaning against the far wall. Walking over towards him, he smirked, holding his hand out as a rose laid in his palm.
"I'm glad I was able to catch you," he smiled, "before the contest, I mean."
"Is this for Beautifly and Minun again?" she asked.
"No... for Swablu and Skitty," he smirked, "I'm sure you remember but the first time competing can be pretty intimidating. Even if you've got experience, it's still both of their first time competing."
"Oh erm, thank you," she chuckled, feeling her cheeks heat up. A nervous chuckle escaped her lips as she took the flower, handing it too the bird on her shoulder.
He gave her a single wink. "Besides, I'm sure you won't need a wish good luck. Luck is what you need when skill isn't available, after all."
She glanced around, unable to properly process a response as her breath stuck in her throat. Her heart threatened to break out of her chest as her eyes wildly darted around, trying to look for something to help her. His face relaxed in a soft smile; his hands fell neatly into his pockets.
"Well, I shouldn't be keeping you," he replied, "before you know it, the appeals round would've begun."
Nodding, she quickly made her way backstage. Disappearing around the corner, she leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. The sizzling heat on her face slowly cooling from the air-conditioning. Taking a moment to regain her composure, she set off towards one of the changing rooms. Filled with different coordinators and Pokémon, she noticed the television planted on the wall, showing the opening of the contest, and the introduction from the judges.
"Hey."
She turned to the side and found Sakura stood with her Azumarill by her side. She placed a hand on her shoulder, locking eyes with her. The ghost of a smile spread over her lips. She lightly tightened her grip on her shoulder, in an almost comforting way.
"What's up?" she asked.
"I erm, I saw you back in the lobby. With that Drew guy," she explained, "I know it's none of my business, but I thought you deserved to know. The day before last he asked me out and I turned him down. I don't know when you two... became that but it seemed pretty serious, and I don't want you to get hurt."
"He... wouldn't do," she replied, blinking, pulling away from the half embrace.
"May... I-"
"Just stop Sakura," she cut her off, "I know what you're doing. Trying to get into my head. I've faced another coordinator who tried mine games before and I'm not going to fall for it."
"But May-"
"It's real low of you, ya know," she hissed. A stage hand entered the room and called out her name. Narrowing her eyes, she turned back to the former kimono sister, "and that's my cue. Sorry your little distraction didn't work but now this contest is gonna be that much harder for you."
Without waiting for a response, she stopped away, following the stage hand. Taking out Swablu's Pokéball, she recalled the normal flying type. Gripping it tightly in her hand, she stood at the bottom of the stage. The chatter of the audience among the host's voice filling her ears.
Drew wouldn't do something like that. He has been flirting with her ever since Fallarbor. She only turned Branden down because of their obvious chemistry. She never imagined Sakura would scoop to such lows to win a single contest but now she knows exactly what sort of person she's dealing with; she isn't about to let a repeat of Verdanturf's contest happen here.
"Now help me welcome our first coordinator in our appeals round today," Vivian announced, "it's May Maple from Petalburg city!"
Serena smiled as she held May's newest team member on her lap. They were right at the back so the grass rock type could get a good view of her performance. She created a thin layer of ESP between the sea lily Pokémon and her legs due to the tickling feeling of the revived fossil.
With the announcement from Vivian, May ran up onto the stage. A wide smile on her face and Pokéball in hand, "Swablu, take the stage!"
In a flash of light, the cotton bird Pokémon materialised in the air. Swirling around with wings spread, she twirled through the air, slowly descending to land centre stage. The noise from the audience going almost silent as both Pokémon waited for them.
Slowly, Swablu began to sing a peaceful tune. She chuckled, remembering when she was going through song ideas for her performance with Kirlia and Meditite. While she didn't go with this option, it was one of the front runners. Maybe it got stuck in both May's and Swablu's head.
Flapping off from the stage, she took off, flapping her wings in time with her tune. A pink tint radiated out of her mouth as the volume increased.
Trailing off behind her, she added in a light blue mist. The two baby-pale colours mixed together. Brightening up the stage as she soared around.
Spinning around, her wings glew pure white. She ascended upwards, with cotton balls falling off into the trail. Creating a rather simple, but beautiful display.
Hitting the high note, she stopped high above the stage. A dark blue flame flickered in her beak. One by one, she shot out balls of dragon type energy.
She knew she struggled to master Dragon breath, but this really made the most of the simplistic version of her attack. It struck down and hit the cotton balls in the air. Exploding them in fireworks, the two different colours added to the final effect as May ran forward.
Her normal flying type landed on her head, and both bowed towards the audience, "and finished."
"What an amazing colourful start for today's competition!" Vivian announced, as she walked back onto the stage, "but let's see what our judges thought."
"The way the Swablu kept tune whilst performing was impressive," Mr Contesta nodded, "even if the actual display lacked lustre."
"I thought it was remarkable!" Mr Sukizo smiled.
"Swablu certainly seemed to have fun," Nurse Joy smiled, "and in good health too!"
She watched the brunette walk off the side of the stage, with a couple workers coming in behind the host, brushing off the reminence of the first performance as the crowd cheered. As they finished up, she smiled, "now let's move right on to our next coordinator. From Verdanturf it's Brenda William!"
Watching a young black-haired girl run out, she tossed a Pokéball up into the air. A Baltoy materialised in front of her as the performance began.
Turning her attention to the Pokémon on her lap, she closed her eyes. Sending out a weak wave of ESP she connected her mind to the fossil Pokémon, which seemed surprised by the unique experience, "so Lileep, how did you enjoy May's and Swablu's performance?"
"Wha-" the grass rock type replied, "who is this? How are you speaking to my thoughts?!"
"Relax, it's just me, Serena," she comforted, running a hand up and down the side of her body, "and this is just another way for us to communicate."
"But May never tried to-"
"It's because she can't," she replied, "I'm what's known as a psychic."
"So, you're like the legends of old?" she asked.
"Huh?" she blinked.
If she had to guess, it must mean that back in prehistoric times, only legendary Pokémon were psychic types. Although it sort of made sense, if it were a far more ferocious time which focused on physical strength, why would the opposite be common? She knew poison type was only discovered about two-to-five hundred years back with humanity and the growth of industrial life so of course other changes happened over the centuries.
Shaking her head, she focused back on the sea lily Pokémon. Looking down with half-closed eyes, "that doesn't really matter now. But what did you think off May's performance?"
"It was colourful... and pretty," she muttered, "I'm surprised you'd have chance to do this... let alone the practise you must put in... don't you need to eat?"
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"Well back... before... we'd spend all day on the hunt for food. If we didn't, we'd never get anything and-" she paused, "it was a full-time thing."
"We've stream-lined a lot of things since those times," she explained, "so it means we can really focus on stuff which we want too. Would you like to come up with a routine like that with May? Maybe compete in a contest like this one?"
"I-I'm not sure," she stuttered, "I guess... it was very pretty b-but I'm not sure. About being in front of everyone."
"That's fine," she nodded, "a lot of people have stage freight. Especially before actually competing but it might be worth practising one... even if you decide not to show it, it'll be a good way for you and May to grow together."
"Maybe..." the grass rock type muttered, glancing back down to the stage.
She smiled as she noticed a fiery performance of a Combusken, themed like some sort of circus act. Jumping through burning rings of fire. Leaping across wooden beams high a cross the air. Spinning the burning rings around the arms like some sort of hula-hoop.
As the judges made their assement, she leaned her head to the side. May's sea lily Pokémon carefully watching the ongoing events. Resting on Ash's shoulder, she lightly interwind her hand in his. She could help but softly smile as he pecked her forehead, resting his head on her's. His mental voice reaching out to her's, "is it just me or did May seem off?"
"What'cha mean?" she asked.
"You know that I've got better at feeling other's emotions since embracing my aura," he explained, "and during her performance... I felt anger radiating off her."
"Anger?" she blinked. "Are you sure?"
"Yeah," he replied, "it's sort of like a colour effect. Different emotions show as different colours and anger is red. Even from this far away, I could feel it."
"Any idea why?" she asked.
"You're the psychic," he replied, "I wondered if she reached out to you."
"She didn't," she muttered, "but during the intermission I'll go and check on her. Maybe one of the other coordinator's is causing trouble. Remember Harley?"
"Oh boy, someone like him is the last thing we need," he replied.
Refocusing on the show, she couldn't help but chuckle at how invested the grass rock type became with each passing coordinator. Soon the second to last coordinator left and the crew got to work cleaning the stage as their host returned to her original position
"Now help me welcome our final coordinator for today," Vivian announced, "from Eckruteak city in Johto, it's the Kimono sister Sakura Sayo!"
Slowly her friend walked out into the stage. She had a black wig on her hair and a traditional pink kimono with hints of red and white. A silence grew across the audience as everyone waited for her move. Taking out a Pokéball, she held it out. In a flash of light, her Azumarill materialised.
Pulling a flute out of her sleeve, she started a slow traditional song. The aqua rabbit Pokémon danced in time with the song.
Her round tail glew bright blue. Water spewed out of it as she grabbed the length, spinning it around with more control.
Whips of water splashed out, all in sync with Sakura's tune. As the tempo increased, so did the exaggerated actions from the performing Pokémon.
Spinning the ball above her head, she formed a sort of water platform. A perfect circle above her head. Glancing up, she used a water pulse to push the disc high into the air. Following through still in time with the song, she created a total of three discs at different heights.
Sakura seemed to increase the pace once more and Azumarill coated herself in water. Shooting straight up, she passed through the first disc.
It added onto her water trail as she turned through the air. Making a mid-air dance she manuvered her way through each ring previously made.
As she shot high above the stage, her fists within the aqua jet started to sparkle. Ice began to form over the outer shield, and she fell back down.
Sakura held onto one note as her partner returned to the stage. Ice enveloping her entire display. The note ending as the collision was made.
Smashing into the stage, the sparkling ice shattered and sprinkled over the stage. Azumarill performed a backflip and landed right in front of her trainer.
"We call that performance, Kyogre's settlement," she bowed as the crowd erupted in applause.
She smiled, relaxing into her seat as she waited for the audience to settle. While she meant what she said about May's performance, she couldn't deny that was probably the best one from today's contest. Not only was it well choreographed and rehearsed but the inspiration from the Kimono sister's added to it's effect. Especially in a region without a traditional branch such as Hoenn. Slowly, the crowd started to calm down.
"And we have a traditional kimono sister show to close out our appeals performances," Vivian smiled, "so before we go into intermission, let's see what our judges thought of young Sakura's performance."
"The connection between the legends of Hoenn and traditions of Johto was well thought out," Mr Contesta smiled, "it makes me wonder when the Kimono sister's will expand out to other regions other than their select few already based. Or just who'll lead said expansions."
"It was remarkable!"
"The way you brought out the element of a legend, amplified with song to emphasis it's importance was impressive," Nurse Joy smiled, "and keeping sync throughout showed the deep connection the two of you share."
Sakura and Azumarill bowed a thank you to the judges and audience, walking off the side of the stage. Vivian sent the show into intermission for the judges to decide just who'll be moving onto the top four. Serena sat up and closed her eyes, connecting her mind with Lileep once more.
"So how did you find it?" Serena asked.
"It was good," she nodded, "but... that last girl. Those people were more positive towards her, but she basically just did May's performance again."
"What'cha mean?" she asked.
"Well," she turned to face the honey-blonde girl, "they were both musical performances and colourful, but May did it first."
"They did have similarities, but you need to think, Swablu only had to match her singing to her own movements," Serena replied, "while Sakura and Azumarill had to work together to time both of their actions together. That would be why."
"I still don't think it's very fair," she muttered.
She couldn't help but smile at the grass rock type. It seems she is already starting to bond with May but that's hardly surprising. Kabutops mentioned once, when being revived, he grew attached to her because she was the first one, he saw in a strange new world. It was sort of like how Togepi imprinted on Ash.
Using her psychic energy which allowed Lileep to sit on her lap, she carefully lifted her up to get out of the seat. Lowering her back down, she kneeled so they were at eye level, "I'm gonna be right back Lileep. But with the intermission I've got something to do. Will you be alright whilst I'm gone."
"I think so," she nodded.
"And do you think you could keep an eye on Ash for me?" she asked, with the sea lily Pokémon turning to face him. He offered a small smile as she turned back to her, he clearly didn't know how she worded the request, "he gets lonely when left by himself."
"Okay," she replied.
Smiling she stood up and quickly made her way out back. Normally the backstage was limited to competing coordinator's but thankfully, being a top coordinator has it's perks. She brief considered revealing that fact to May, after all she knows that she competed in Johto's contest circuit but the last thing she'd want is derail May's own journey and have her try to mimic her's or something like that.
Besides, she'd hate for her friend to change how she acted towards her. Keeping things as is, would be best for both of them.
May sighed as she looked up at the screen, with Sakura walking off. Her eyes narrowed and she frowned. It doesn't matter what sort of appeals performance she does, she'll show the little goodie-two-shoes who's best. She tried to get into her head, after all, and she'll regret it.
"Hey."
She blinked. Turning to the source, she softly smiled as Drew stood in front of her. His Plusle perched neatly on his shoulder. He kneeled in front of her, grasping her hand in his, as she found her eyes unable to look away from his sheen-green eyes. Only doing so when he closed them and let out a light laugh.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"I erm, what'cha mean?" she stuttered.
"Your all tense," he replied, "this is your fourth contest. You shouldn't be nervous this far in... and if you are, it will throw you Pokémon off."
"I erm, it's not the contest," she sighed, relaxing and closing her eyes, "it's Sakura."
"She's a good coordinator but you've faced good coordinator's before," he replied. She opened her eyes look at him, quirking an eyebrow up in the air, to which he smirked, "I'm flattered but I actually meant Clark. I doubt she's any match for him and you crushed him in Fallarbor."
"R-right." Her bottom lip trembled as he squeezed her hand in a comforting manner. "B-but it's what she said... I think she was just trying to get in my head-"
"What did she say?" he asked.
"She claimed that whilst in Rustboro," she felt her breath become uneven as her heart threatened to burst out of her chest, "that you asked her out-"
"Hehehe, that's what she said happened?" he asked with a slight chuckle. She watched as he closed his eyes and dropped his head slightly, "the truth is, I found her practising and challenged her to a contest battle. After the battle, she suggested we go out-"
"And you didn't?" she asked.
"I've been on other dates with different girls but right now, my heart is only set on you." He raised her hand and placed a small kiss on the back of her hand.
"So... she asked you out instead?" she muttered.
"I'm not going to pretend like you were the first one catch my eye," he replied, "but you're the only one right now. And that's all that matters, here and now."
"Hehehe," she felt her cheeks burst into flames at the suggestion. She couldn't blame him for such a thing, after all, she was infatuated with Ash upon their first meeting so it's only natural.
"Now I should get back to my seat," he smirked, standing up and releasing her hands, "but I look forward to watching you accept the ribbon."
Nodding, she couldn't help but watch as he walked out of the room. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and relaxed into the seat. She knew he wouldn't do what Sakura accused him off. She assumed a Kimono sister would have some honour, but it turns out she's a female version of Harley.
"May."
She opened her eyes to find the rival stood in front of her. Her eyes flicked down in a frown.
"I caught the glimpse of you and Drew when I returned," she explained, "and I-"
"I think you've said enough," she cut the pink-haired girl off, "Drew told me the truth about what happened and-and I can't believe you'd try to manipulate me like that. Does winning a single ribbon mean so much to you that you'd-"
"Whoa, May," she held her hands up, "I don't know what he told you but-"
"If you can't even admit it then I don't want to hear it," she declared, jumping up, "I'll see you on the battlefield... assuming you even make it that far."
Without waiting for a response, she marched over to the far side of the room. She couldn't even care that the room fell almost silent. As she reached the side of the room, she glanced back to see Serena at the entrance. Before she could make any move, Sakura approached her. Crossing her arms, she turned back around. If Serena wants to take her side, then so be it. A noise drew her attention, the source being the television mounted on the wall.
She turned towards the screen mounted on the wall and it showed Vivian back on the main stage. After welcoming them back, she gestured up to the screen over the stage and four images appeared on the screen. Sakura was on the top left side and some brown-haired boy with a big red bow tie right underneath her. May got the spot on the top right side and another guy, but much older took up the final spot.
The images mixed together before splitting apart. She saw her image in the first box and matched with the guy with a big red bow tie. Realising she was in the first round, she stood up and made her way out of the room. A stagehand already waiting, and she led her back towards the main stage.
"Now help me welcome our first two coordinators to the stage for our first battle round," Vivian announced, "on the left, it's May and on the right it's Romeo!"
She made her way up the steps and walked out on stage. The audience cheered and lights shone but she focused ahead at the opponent. He had medium length light brown hair and was dressed in a smart beige button shirt with a big red bow tie. If she had to guess, he would be about fifth teen or sixteen.
"This will be a one-on-one contest battle between May and Romeo!" Vivian announced, "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 beforehand and are now unable to switch!"
May held her Pokéball in hand and narrowed her eyes, she flicked her wrist and tossed the device into the air, "Skitty! Take the stage!"
Her pure normal type materialised on the stage and let out a couple high pitched yaps. Without a moment's hesitation, she took off, running in a circle around her half of the field. Every so often trying to whack the pink appendage on the end of her tail. A light wave of laughter echoed from the audience.
"And for our beloved Juliet and her Illumise, we shall fight to the last stance," Romeo declared, in an almost poetic tone, "by my side, Beat!"
She frowned at the public display but quickly blinked. Wondering if Drew would one day declare his contest victory for his feelings for her. Shaking her head, she focused on the challenge ahead. Taking in the sight of their opponent for the first time.
A bipedal bug Pokémon which seemed to be the shape of a baby after a humans stood before them. The body was black with a blue chest and abdomen. Two yellow stripes ran across the front, one on the chest and the other near the legs. A red band separated each limb from the body, almost like some form of armor. Emphasised by the thicker, incomplete one surrounding the shoulder's. Two simplistic wings extended out from the band around the shoulder's, and it lightly hovered over the field with a constant buzzing sound. The face was blue, with yellow eyes, and curly, yellow antennae which each had black strips. A round, yellow, spherical tail lightly shone behind it. While she could admit it was sort of cute, it couldn't compare to her Beautifly as a bug type. Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out her Pokédex and scanned her latest opponent:
Volbeat, The Firefly Pokémon. Like with Nidoran and a select few other species it's believe this is the same species as Illumise but different due to their gender. With the arrival of night, Volbeat emits light from its tail. It communicates with others by adjusting the intensity and flashing of its light
Skitty quit running around in a circle and crouched low. Growling with excitement, she stared up at their opponent. Her nose twitched and the tail waved back and forth behind her.
"May has gone with her Skitty and Romeo has Volbeat," Vivian announced, "despite his declaration for Juliet, one can only assume he has an uphill battle, since May is the daughter of Petalburg's gym leader Norman! A normal type specialist! I for one can't wait to see what she learnt from him and just what she is capable off in today's contest. So, without further ado, five minutes on the clock and let's begin!"
May verses Romeo: Top Four
Serena barely made it back into her seat as the battle began. Skitty went zooming across the field in a zigzag fashion with impressive speed. Watching the pure bug type, she noticed him struggling to track her movements as he floated around, trying to keep her in view.
"Thunderbolt, Beat!" Romeo commanded.
His antennae's straightened out and sparked with electricity. Two individual bolts shot off, marking the floor as it tried to hit the normal type.
Skitty continued her regular antics of running around. Seeming to effortlessly avoid the onslaught of attacks.
Running right underneath the firefly Pokémon, she performed a backflip. Summersaulting overhead, she knocked him down with her tail.
Landing next to each other, Skitty on all fours whilst Volbeat was on his back. With a deep breath, she launched out a high-pitched disarming voice. Striking the bug type, he was knocked backwards by the pink-tinted soundwave.
"Ride the attack and get back into the air!" Romeo shouted, "and add in a moonlight!"
Spinning his body, the pure bug type spread his wings. Gliding across the fairy type move, he quick ascended. A sprinkling trail shimmering behind him.
"That quick recover will end up being tough for May to deal with," she muttered, absent-mindlessly rubbing Lileep's back, "and he healed as well."
Volbeat turned around and multiplied in the air. Several copies of the firefly Pokémon appeared, surrounding single normal type.
Each one dove towards Skitty. As her eyes scanned over to may, she had narrowed eyes and tightened fists, "double slap Skitty!"
Swiping her tail back and forth, she knocked out the first bug which faded into nothing. Running along she took out two more.
"Try another set of thunderbolts!" Romeo commanded.
Bolts of electricity rained down over the stage. Skitty jumped from one position to the next, narrowly avoiding the onslaught of attacks. While the constant evasion was draining her opponent's points, Serena knew May had to go offensive otherwise Skitty would tire out.
"Blizzard and finish up with double slap!" she hollered.
Jumping up into the air, the kitten Pokémon took a deep breath. Several bolts flying towards her. Releasing the breath, a massive icy gust blew back.
All the bolts froze mid-air, inches away from impact. Spinning around, she whacked one back. The blizzard having erased the remaining copies.
The frozen thunderbolt shot back across the field and struck their opponent in the chest. He had been covered in frost from the previous move, making him unable to move out of the way. Crashing down on the stage, the bug type slowly pushed himself back up.
"Assist!"
With a loud cry, Skitty performed a backwards summersault. Her paw glew white and a ball of energy engulf it.
Holding her paw out, small rocks shot out. Rapid pace and each one struck their target. One by one impacting the pure bug type. A loud buzzer sounded as the pure normal type landed back on the stage. While Volbeat laid on his stomach, swirls replacing his eyes.
"Volbeat has been deemed unable to battle," Vivian announced, "meaning the first coordinator moving onto the final round today will be May and Skitty!"
She let out a sigh of relief as she watched May kneel down and embrace her normal type in a hug. Smiling at the sight, she ran her hand across the rock grass type. At least she was still acting right towards her Pokémon. Biting her inner cheek, she frowned, thinking back to her conversation with Sakura just before this battle, down outside of the changing rooms.
"What's up?" she asked.
"I wanted to talk about May," the kimono sister replied, "I'm worried about her."
"That's a coincidence because she's who I came down to speak too," she replied, "Ash and I noticed her acting weird... so I wanted to check she was alright."
"Well, I'm not sure what but she's been speaking with that Drew guy," she explained, "I tried to warn her not to get involved-"
"How come?" she asked.
"Oh, he asked me out a few days ago but I wasn't interested," she continued, "then he started acting weird. He really gave me the creeps."
"Some guys just don't take rejection well," she sighed, "but what does that have to do with May?"
"I'm not sure what he told her, but she seems to think I was sabotaging her in today's contest," she replied.
"Hey, Serena!"
Blinking. She realised she was still in her seat in the audience. Glancing down to the field, Sakura's battle had already begun. She was using Loudred against an opposing Nuzleaf. Shaking her head slightly, she turned to find her boyfriend staring at her, lightly squeezing her hand.
"Glad to see your back with us," he smiled, "was you mentally talking with someone?"
"Huh?" she shook her head, "no. I was just thinking back to the intermission."
"Right," he nodded, "so what did she say?"
"I didn't get to speak with May," she sighed, leaning against his arm, "you see, Sakura pulled me to one side. It was actually May she wanted to speak about but once we finished, she had already left to get ready for her battle. Sakura could be sure what but said Drew-"
"Drew?" Max chimed in from behind them.
"Yeah," she looked over to him, flurrying her eyebrow, "why Max?"
"Because he asked May out on a date when we went to the Devon corporation," he replied, "they're going tonight after the contest."
"Oh boy," she pinched the bridge of her nose.
"What's wrong, Serena?" Ash asked, "surely one date couldn't hurt."
"It's because Sakura told me, he asked her out before we arrived," she sighed, "I know what it's like when you go on your first date. Get nervous and anxious which turns into excitement. The mixed feelings make it feel like flying and no ground is in sight."
"I don't remember our first date being like that," Ash muttered.
"I'm sure it's different for boys," she rolled her eyes, "but those feelings, especially when you have no clue how to control them can feel terrifying but also amazing. So, I think Drew's been using that confusion to build a wedge between her and Sakura."
"But why?" Max asked.
"Probably to motivate May further to beat Sakura today. Some guys don't take rejection well and is manipulating her well," she shrugged, "or just to hurt Sakura by turning her friend against her."
"Why would May let him?" Ash asked.
"She probably doesn't even realise he is," she sighed, "you know, there was a time I would've done anything to get the smallest hint of affection from you."
"You would've?" he blinked.
"And now she has ways to make you do anything for her," Brock chimed in with a knowing smirk.
"No, she doesn't," he shook his head, giving their older brother figure a 'seriously' look.
Smiling, she leaned in and connect her lips to his. Waiting until his eyes locked with hers, she smiled softly and slowly pulled away, "don't listen to him. He's teasing."
"Erm, right," he uttered. Shaking his head, "so what should we do about May?"
A loud buzzer sounded, causing all of them to turn to the stage. Loudred stood in front of Sakura, pounding his chest. While their opponent kneeled next to his Nuzleaf, who was sat down, looking disappointed.
"And with a complete elimination of their opponents points, Sakura and Loudred shall join May in the final," Vivian announced, "we'll just take a couple minutes to return the battlefield before we get underway with the final act of today's Rustboro contest!"
"I don't think I'll have time to go down before the match," she muttered as they emptied the stage, "and even if I could, I don't want to throw May off. It could cost her the contest."
"But not doing that could lead to Sakura being thrown off," Max replied, "after what you said about why Drew did it."
"I doubt it," she replied, "Sakura is wise beyond her years. She was a Kimono sister after all. So, I think she can handle it just fine."
"So, what will we do?" Ash asked.
"I'll help her get ready for the date and try to speak to her then," Serena replied, "at least that way, I can get a sense of what's going through her head."
"So, you're just going to let her go on this date?!" Max cried.
"There's not a lot we can do," she replied, "May is her own person, she's a trainer and can make her own decisions. And if she's anything like I was, then even a herd of stampeding Tauros couldn't keep her away from that date... besides, the damage Drew did is already done."
The lights went down, and their attention turned back to the stage.
"Just like before, this final will be a one-on-one contest battle between May and Sakura!" Vivian announced, "we'll have five minutes on the clock, all that's left is to see who'll be battling alongside our coordinator's!"
"Loudred! You're up!" Sakura shouted, tossing her Pokéball into the air.
In a flash of light Sakura's purple, bipedal Pokémon with a square build materialised. A large mouth took up the majority of the Pokémon, with big yellow lips outlining him, and peg-like teeth in each corner. A large tongue and throat as clear as anything. Above the prominent mouth was a stubby little nose, he might've thought they'd struggle breathing with it, but he'd be willing to bet this species is a mouth breather. On top of the head was two, short stalks that support circular ear. The Pokémon stomped around, revealing the inside of the ears to have alternating black and purple rings but there was only a single black ring on the back. Yellow stripe patterns that resembled sound waves covered the back. Each arm had three fingers and the short legs had two peg-like toes. On the sole of each foot had a yellow circle. She pulled out her Pokédex for a quick reminder:
Loudred, The Big Voice Pokémon. The evolved form of Whismur. The force of this Pokémon's loud voice isn't just the sound—it's also the wave of air pressure that blows opponents away and damages them
Putting the device away, she narrowed her eyes and saw May switch her own device with a Pokéball, tossing it into the air, "take the stage, Skitty!"
May's own normal type materialised on the field. Crouching low, her tail waved back and forth as she prepared to pounce. Letting out a series of high-pitched yelps, which were silenced by a booming roar from their opponent as he entered his own stance. She silently gulped seeing the determined look on her friends face. She'd expect to see her act like this against someone like Harley, not a friend like Sakura.
"And we have a match of normal types to decide the winner of today's Rustboro contest!" Vivian announced, "so with five minutes on the clock, let's begin!"
May verses Sakura: Final
"Fake out!"
Her normal type shot forward in the blink of an eye. Reappearing right in front of their opponent, she smacked her tail right into Loudred's face. He flinched and stumbled backwards as she scurried between his legs, disappearing behind him. Her tail whacking both knees in quick succession.
Falling down onto his knees, he glanced up to her. Skitty shot back, performing a handstand as she rolled over him. Her tail whacking his face once more.
"Attract!"
Landing right in front of him, she winked. Several small pink hearts formed and shot out. Hitting him directly, his pupils shrunk.
"Close your eyes Loudred," Sakura instructed, "and listen for movement instead!"
Squeezing his eyes shut, the pure normal type took a deep breath. His ears stood on end and vibrated, loud sound waves boomed out.
Striking her kitten Pokémon, she was sent flying across the field. Rolling to a stop right in front of her.
"Get up Skitty!" she shouted, "and captivate!"
Pushing herself up, the normal type took off across the field. Narrowly dodging a second boom burst which struck the ground where she once stood.
Their opponent turned to follow her, still squeezing his eyes shut. Performing jumps, summersaults, forward rolls and other acrobatic moves, her own normal type manuvered around the onslaught of attacks like some sort of acrobat performer. A bright light enveloped her as she closed the gap.
Leaping over head, she performed a moving handstand on Loudred's head. The bright light engulfing him as she rolled off the back.
"Behind you!" Sakura hollered.
As he turned around, her playful kitten Pokémon shot back between his legs. She smirked seeing her opponent unable to properly keep up with them.
"And it seems like speed and agility are out-manuvering the raw power!" Vivian announced, "while she was awarded points for her team, guiding her partner, it's clear that Sakura is struggling to keep up now as we move into the final three minutes!"
"Water pulse straight up!" Sakura instructed.
She smirked as she watched their opponent form a sphere of water within his large mouth. Looking upwards, it shot high into the air.
"Double slap then assist!"
Running ahead, Skitty pounced at the big voice opponent. Rocketing up beside them, she spun and smashed her tail into the sphere. Breaking the orb apart, a pattern of rain drizzled down over the pure normal type. With her own partner landing back in front of her, panting lightly.
His eyes slowly opened. It took a couple seconds, but she soon realised that hearts formed once more. His hands clasped together as he rubbed his cheek.
"Keep your eyes closed!" Sakura instructed, "and echoed voice!"
With her paw glowing white, she held it up. A strong pink wind blew out and against their opponent.
Clutching his toes into the stage, he was pushed back an inch or two. With a deep breath, loud soundwaves blasted out of his ears.
It easily broke through the assisted move curtsy of Mawile and smashed into Skitty. Throwing her back across the field. She grunted and covered her own ears, sneering at their opponent. She had hoped to mix one of Minun's electric moves with the water, but somethings just don't work that way.
After checking on her kitten Pokémon from the blast, she glanced back. Another water pulse already falling down on Loudred.
"Blizzard!"
Running forward, her pure normal type released a massive ice-filled breath. The water pulse splashed over their opponent. With her blizzard blowing past.
A reddish-brown outline surrounded the big voice Pokémon. He charged forward powering through the blizzard as she pulled out her Pokédex:
Stomping Tantrum: surrounded by ground type energy, the user beats down their opponent with dust covering to disorientate their target
Putting the device down, she saw the collision of the two Pokémon. Flinching and closing her eyes, she squinted to look like a cloud of dust surrounded the impact. The sounds of her kitten Pokémon crying out echoing. Closing her eyes, she tried to think off a counter.
Her eyes burst open wide, "close your eyes! Use foresight and get clear!"
Clenching her fist, she tried to peak through the dust. Glancing to the scoreboard, she saw the impact didn't take as many points as one might expect. If she had to guess, it was due to the assault being surrounded by dust and not visible or appealing.
"It seems like Sakura's going for a knockout victory after having circles run around in the first half!" Vivian announced, "but we wait with bated breath to see if May's Skitty can make it out with the devised strategy or if she's too late."
The purple Pokémon slowly stomped towards his trainer, leaving the cloud of dust. Panting heavily and clearly tired. A glance up to the timer showed thirty second remaining. Her eyes darted around as her pink normal type slowly approached from her side. Her eyes widened at the limited time.
"Disarming voice on the dust!" she shouted.
Turning around, her normal type took a deep breath. Blowing out a weaker wind with a pink tint. It hit the dust, throwing it across the field.
Straight into their opponent. Loudred inhaled and began coughing on the dust. Falling onto his back and rolling around, a buzzer sounded.
"And that's time!" Vivian announced, "looking towards the scoreboard we can see... that May has more points remaining, mean she'll be the one to receive the Rustboro ribbon! Just give us a few minutes to prepare for the closing ceremony!"
Serena smiled as she glanced at the television screen in May's room, it was showing a rerun of today's contest and currently had May on the stage with the judges receiving her ribbon. Red ribbons with a darker shade around the outside accompanied by a brownish-bronze centre piece. Her Swablu perched on her shoulder and Skitty in her arms. While the other three coordinators to make it to the battle round stood in a row behind.
"So how does it feel May?" she asked, brushing her friends long brown air. Serena offered to help the younger coordinator get ready for her 'date'. While she couldn't approve of who she was going with, she knew a first was special and even if she wanted too, she couldn't stop her, "having your third ribbon."
"Great," she smiled, humming a happy tune, "but I just can't believe Sakura. She pretends to be friends but when it came down to it-"
"Well May," she cut her off, "any two coordinator's competing could face each other in any contest. You might be friends but your also rivals and you owe it to both your opponent and your Pokémon to give it everything."
"It's not the thought of having to battle her or even compete," she sighed, "it's the way she lied and tried to manipulate me-"
"Now I can't be certain on what all went on back there but are you sure that's what she did?" she asked, "maybe your mistaken or-"
"You're starting to sound like my mum when Max would do something back home," she let out a small laugh, "but even your optimism wouldn't hold out if you saw everything that went on backstage. Sorry, I know she's your friend but honestly... it was like I was facing Harley all over again."
"I doubt it was that bad," she replied, "I mean, I don't remember her taking Max out for ice cream just to get a recording about-"
"Don't mention the Tentacool story," she groaned, "we're meant to be taking a walk by the coastal cliffs and I don't think I'll be able to handle it if that memory is back in my head."
"Hahaha, sorry, I couldn't resist," she laughed, "but my point still stands. We don't know what happened between Drew and Sakura because we weren't there."
"Maybe you don't know but I do," she sighed, "anyway, are you almost done? I still need to get my outfit on."
"Almost," she replied, stroking the brush down one of her bangs once more. Letting her hair fall, she smiled, happy with the turn of event, "now it's done."
"Great!" she practically jumped out of her seat, running to the bathroom.
Crossing her arms as her friend changed, Serena frowned. She really is convinced of this but having known the kimono sister since the second visit to the city of Eckruteak, she really does believe Sakura first. Not to mention, when they first met Drew, he made moves on her so it's not like its unheard off.
Shaking her head, she heard the bathroom door open. Turning around she gasped as May stepped out. She was wearing a vermilion top with a yellow heart on it with yellow border on the sleeves and neck. While her bottom half was covered by a light purple long skirt with a piece of pink fabric at the waist but the part which truly caught her attention was her exposed midriff.
"Erm May-"
"So what'cha think?" she asked, giving a twirl. The dress expanding outwards in the flowing movement.
"You look great, May but-" she paused, "are you really sure it's... suitable? For a first date, I mean."
"You mean my midriff?" she asked, an unamused look on her face as she stopped the twirl. Hesitantly, she nodded, "it's kinda rich coming from you. You've had your midriff on show with your regular outfit. And we're going to be outside, and it is Hoenn. I don't see what the issue is."
"I-I mean, it is a little much," she replied, "this is your first date after all."
"So?" she asked, "I remember you and Ash going on a date to a spa. I bet you were more exposed there."
"Th-that's different!" She felt her face burst into flames at the accusation, "Ash and I have been together for over three-years a-and-"
"I remember stories you told me about your other dates," she replied, placing her hands on her hips, "and I'm older than you was when you started dating!"
"But I had known him for years," she sighed, "but I'm not going to change your mind, am I?"
"Nope." She crossed her arms. A triumphant smirk spread across her lips, her eyes glanced to the side, "and look at the time. Drew's gotta already be in the lobby!"
The brunette quickly slipped into some flat sandals which admittedly matched her outfit very well and took off out of the room. Walking out after her, she locked the door and followed the girl down to the lobby. Everyone's Pokémon were with Nurse Joy, getting ready for them hitting the road tomorrow but she promised May to pick them up once done.
As she made it down to the lobby, she caught the glimpse of May's arms looped around Drew's although what caught her attention was the boy's outfit. It looked almost identical to his regular outfit. She couldn't help but inwardly cringe at the fact May heavily overdressed. Sure, she's been on dates with both big fancy outfits and just her regular stuff, but she almost spoke with Ash first to ensure they matched.
Sighing, she figured she could go and find him since they've got nothing else to do right now. As she made her way over the lobby, she found Max and Brock at one of the tables, both silently reading. Knowing what her boyfriend was up too, she made her way over to the videophone suite. Entering the side room, she found her boyfriend at one of the screens. The light turned off and he slowly rose to his feet.
Moving closer she saw a long, blank expression on his face, which had been drained of colour. His eyes giving off darting glancing but with no rhyme or rhythm. He let out a long, exaggerated breath, "Ash... what's wrong?"
"I-it's Drake," he stuttered.
"What's up with Drake?" she asked.
"He's been arrested," he uttered, blinking in surprise of his own words.
"Arrested?" she asked, not quite sure she heard right but to her shock, he slowly nodded, "wh-what for?"
"Murder."
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