Author's Note:
Here it is, the final contest before the grand festival. As you can probably tell, this chapter is based on the Pacifidlog jam, but I did change one of the coordinators in that episode with someone we know quite well. After the rollercoaster of emotions with Manaphy, we have to wonder how May will handle seeing her old boyfriend with the contest underway. This chapter is also meant to pair up nicely with the last one for a sort of two-part Pacifidlog arc, focusing on May in the aftermath of the weather disaster story. Also as stated in the last chapter, there would've been a three-week gap between last chapter and this one (in story). This is because of the Aqua & Magma arc causing massive delays in Hoenn. Which does mean we might be seeing time pass much quicker than before. It also means the gang gets more time to train, hence the quick progression of Munchlax. I hope your all enjoying Scarlet & Violet. I'm undecided if I'll do a full Paldea adventure in this series, we'll need to wait and see how the anime handles it and just what the generation as a whole has to offer. I will say, there are certain aspects I really like and plan to include in this series. I won't spoil what just yet but know some of my plans are under editing. Nothing major. I also didn't get as much writing done since the release but I'm still on plan for four chapters in December. The schedule for after that, we'll just need to wait and see. Not much else to say, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Seventy-Six: Pacifidlog Contest: Erica-Breaky-Heart
May smiled as she watched her newest team member stand over her brother's team of three. All four of the Pokémon were panting heavily and covered in sweat. She glanced up to see the sky already dark and illuminated by the stars and a full moon. Lights from the inside of the centre helped them from the nocturnal life of the island. Walking forward, she kneeled beside the big eater and scratched the top of his head. Holding out a pink-Pokéblock piece.
The three weeks on Pacifidlog went by in no time with their training Munchlax really going well. Thanks to her brother and his knowledge of training techniques from both Brock and their father, he even learnt that new move. She couldn't be prouder of the turns of events.
"I think Geice, Ozone and Shuppet need to call it a night," her brother explained, having already recalled his team. Before she could reply, a light snoozing drew her attention. Munchlax had fallen fast sleep as his stomach raised and lowered in times with the sleeping sounds.
"Good idea." She nodded. Taking out her Pokéball to recall her sleeping Pokémon, she stood back up and stretched. Her little brother walking into the centre whilst covering up a massive yawn. Inwardly giggling, she turned back into the serene island atmosphere.
Not quite feeling ready for bed, her legs started taking her off down the old dirt path between berry fields. This being a common occurrence during the stay on this tropical island. She smiled as she passed the sleeping Wingull, perched on tree branches and the families of Zigzagoon who curled up in hollowed trunks.
It only took about five minutes for her to reach the edge of the beach. Closing her eyes, she let the sea-salt air fuel her senses. Bringing a certain water type to mind.
"Good night, Manaphy," she whispered.
Slowly opening her eyes, she took in the different shades of blue which made up the ocean, sky, and horizon. Her lips curled up into a smile as a cool breeze blew past, as if the legendary water type was giving her a hug from beneath the sea. Letting the warm fuzz embrace her body, a slight giggle drew her attention.
Curiosity got the better of her and she found herself wondering down the beach to the source. She frowned at the sight she had been lured to.
Drew and his new arm hugger were at the water's edge with his Luvdisc swimming around. She flashed back to meeting the water type in Lilycove.
Her and Drew were stood at the street-railing next to the ocean and he held out a Pokéball for the small, pink, heart shaped Pokémon to burst out, spinning through the air as she splashed into water. Popping her mouth out of the water, she shot a small jet of water which split off and curved, creating a water heart for them. Her heart throbbed at the display for just the two of them as her hands claimed his in a tight squeeze.
"Where did you find Luvdisc?" she asked.
"We was on Lilycove beach. Myself, Roselia and Plusle, just practising some new routines. Then I got your message about leaving mount Pyre and I kinda got distracted." He smiled sweetly. "It's said Luvdisc can sense love and show themselves to couples but ours was so strong... just your message caused this one to appear. I think she wanted to meet you because she just kinda stayed around and at the end of the day I asked if she wanted to come with."
"You asked?" she quirked an eyebrow up.
"I only noticed her again as we were leaving." He shrugged. "Figured it was worth asking and she agreed."
"That's kinda sweet, actually." She beamed.
"Urg, what're you doing here?"
Blinking. The ocean view returned, and she found Drew's new fling stood in front of her. Hands on her hips with an accusatory glare. "Huh?"
"Not only are you interrupting our date but also ruining the special capture?" She continued.
"Special... capture?" she blinked.
"I know your upset because Drew dumped you but we're trying to have a nice moment with his new Luvdisc." She stomped her foot down.
"Luvdisc isn't new, he caught her back in-" She stopped, staring at the green haired boy as he recalled the pure water type. "You made up the story about meeting her on Lilycove beach? How many girls have you used that one on?"
"I don't know what you're talking about, May," he uttered with a bored undertone.
"Jealousy is really not a good look for you, by the way," the girl added with a smirk.
"I'm not jealous." She paused and swallowed hard, trying to not let her emotions show. "It's... Erica, right?"
"Not like it's any business of yours." She scoffed
"I don't know what he told you but-"
"Oh, here we go." She cut May off, turning to face Drew. "I know you said she was jealous, but I didn't expect her to actually try these tricks."
"I'm not trying to trick you." She sighed. "I just don't want to see you get hurt. Like he hurt me."
"Heh, you expect me to believe that?" she asked, turning to face Drew again. "What did you ever see in her?"
"I don't know," he whispered cupping her cheek and pulling her into a kiss. The girls cheeks burned bright red. Lasting a good five seconds before letting her go. He interlocked their hands. "But come on, you need to get some sleep. That fifth ribbon isn't going to win itself."
"Your competing for your fifth ribbon too?" she asked, fighting the tears which stung her eyes.
"Of course." Drew answered for her. "A lot of contests have been cancelled because of the disasters. Most of the mainland contest halls are either badly damaged or being used as refuge points for the survivors. The only contests being held require all coordinators to have four ribbons minimum now."
"Don't worry babe, I'll prove you made the right decision." She flashed May a confident smirk. "Just wait until tomorrow."
She felt stood in her spot as she watched the couple walk away. As the tears escaped down her cheeks, she swallowed and wiped away the tracks. Seeing them together may hurt but after the heart break of meeting and losing Manaphy both times... it seems insignificant. She's got her friends to support her, her family and especially her Pokémon. Tightening her fist, she took a deep breath and turned, marching back across the island.
Her mind racing with ideas about the upcoming contest. She considered switching out her duo for some of the more experienced members of her team, like Combusken or Altaria... but her team have really worked hard these past three weeks and not to mention the massive help Max has given her.
Even if she wanted to put Drew in his place, she couldn't say the same about Erica. Heh, a few months back and she'd say she was just like the brunette. If anything, she feels sorry for Erica. She's been tightly wrapped around his finger and even if they would've ended up facing in this contest... she sighed.
She can't blame her for falling for the same tricks which wooed her originally. Upon entering the centre, she left the two Pokéballs with the night-Chansey to ensure they're fully ready for tomorrows contest and set off through the building.
Making it back to the room, she's sharing with the others. She slow pushed the door open and stepped inside. Her brother was fast asleep in the first bed on the right side as her's laid untouched on the opposing left. Further in, she noticed Brock using a book-light to help with reading his book on berries and medical properties. Sat on the bed further on the right side.
The couple were on the final bed on the left side with Serena's back to her. Stepping further into the room, she locked eyes with Ash as his rubbed her back in a comforting manner. Knowing his silent request through the look, she quickly picked up her nightwear and walked into the attached bathroom.
Locking the door behind her, she began to change. Her mind focused on the honey blonde girl. She's been so quiet and distant since the whole magma and aqua event. She's heard from Brock what happened on the mainland but seeing the longing stares from Serena makes her think its way worst. She's hardly been eating and only occasionally sending her team out to train with the others. She can't recall her even taking part in the performance plan.
Once into her orange track-suit pyjama's, she checked herself out in the mirror. Happy with the fit, she moved to the sink and proceeded with her nightly routine. Cupping water in her hands, she splashed her face and used a hand towel to dry off her face. Continuing to brush her teeth before walking back.
As she lay in her bed, she chanced one more look. She truly hoped the honey-blonde girl would get better soon. She's never seen her so distraught.
Smiling brightly. May felt the hot Hoenn sun beat down on her skin as she walked down the dirt path towards sight of the Pacifidlog contest. Her arms held Bulbasaur tightly as they walked ahead of the group. Soon it came into sight, and she smiled seeing the place on the edge of the beach.
Rows of chairs sat upon the sand with a floating stage just out in the island, being held down by some anchors. A large screen created a backdrop of the outside stage as ropes outlined a rectangle around the floating performance area. During her stay on the island, she learnt most residences reside in buildings which were on floating wooden rafts. The Pokémon centre being the only building on the actual island but the parts of the storm and earthquakes which hit the island ended up ripping them apart. Luckily, no-one here got hurt but the people are now residing in the Pokémon centre until rebuilding is complete.
She turned back and took in the sight of her friends, Brock and Max were the closest to her, as Castform and Shuppet chased each other in an aerial game of tag. A smile flicked on her lips as she looked towards the other two. Ash and Serena were further behind, seemingly keeping their distance. The chocolate-eyed boy offered a thumbs up in her direction and supportive nod. Returning the gesture, she refocused on the two boys.
"Good luck, May." Her brother beamed, causing her smile to expand.
"Thanks Max," she replied, crouching down to embrace him in a hug. Whispering, she continued, "and thank you for the training. We're sure to win it now."
Releasing her brother, she stood back up and bid all four of them goodbye once more. As she turned to one of the stage workers, she felt Bulbasaur's vine wrap around her hand. Offering the grass poison type an encouraging smile, they walked over onto the beach.
Signing in with the woman, she was lead into a lifeguard shack which had been emptied out and turned into a waiting area. She glanced around to see only six other coordinators waiting. Due to the chaos on the mainland and four ribbon rule, she figured the competition would be light but even compared to Fallarbor, this is small.
Her eyes wondered over the small group before landing on Erica. She had a clearly female humanoid shaped Pokémon stood in front of her with a purple face and hands, which had four fingers and an opposing thumb on each. Large pink lips and round white eyes made up the face, which was framed by her long, straight pale golden hair. Her body resembled a red dress covered her entire body, with golden rims marking out her chest area. May started to walk closer as she pulled out her Pokédex and scanned the previously unknown Pokémon:
Jynx, The Human shape Pokémon. The final evolved form of Smoochum. It walks rhythmically, swaying and shaking its hips as if it were dancing. Its motions are so bouncingly alluring, people seeing it are compelled to shake their hips without giving any thought to what they are doing
"Urg, what do you want?" She put the device down to see Erica, who jumped up from her seat to stare her down.
"Just to talk." She shrugged, putting the device away. "You see, I was once like you and-"
"This is gonna be one of those heart-to-heart girlfriend bestie talks?" she asked with a mocking tone. Her ice psychic type moving into a protective stance.
"I'm just trying to warn you-"
"Nice try but Drew already told me what happened." She rolled her eyes, turning to the side. "If it wasn't bad enough for you to cheat on him but to rub it in his face. Even try to dirty his name after her helped you win your ribbons too. Some people have no shame."
"Wh-what?!" She almost choked.
"Calling Erica Birnbaum," one of the workers called out, "you'll be performing first since all the coordinators are now present."
The brunette girl hmphed with some sort of triumph and shoved her aside, walking over to the worker. Both Erica and her Jynx walked out of the outhouse, and she sighed. Tightening her fist, she took a deep breath. Part of her really wants to rub her face in it but she knows Erica is just another victim here. With a long sigh, she moved to a position to watch the ongoing performance.
She frowned as an elderly women who she didn't really know... she thinks she might've been in some of Serena's showcases, but she can't be sure. Stood on the stage with both Mr Contesta and Mr Sukizo. With Vivian finishing up her introductions "-and now we'd normally introduce Pacifidlog Nurse Joy as our final judge but due to the ongoing efforts around Hoenn, her work is more valuable elsewhere. So, it's my honour to introduce the president of the Pokémon showcase committee and the original Kalos showcase queen, Palermo Yashio! And I believe she has a special announcement to make."
The women walked forward to the microphone and the crowd went silent. It almost felt like a head teacher in school assembly.
"It is an honour to help our fellow circuits during this time of need. Helping out where possible is exactly what a showcase queen should do, and that leads me onto my news." She coughed to clear her throat. "Due to the disasters which have hit Hoenn, we've had to seriously reschedule the showcase competition. As such we're hold only one more showcase before the master class. This shall take place in three weeks from today, in Sootopolis city. Only performers missing the final key shall be permitted entry and it is there where we'll announce details on Hoenn's first master class."
She gulped slightly as the three judges took their seats on a smaller separate raft with their panel off to the side of the main stage. Her eyes darted over to the audience where she knew her friends sat. This is gonna be tough on Serena, not only is she going through a lot after the Courtney encounter, but she only has one more chance to enter the master class. Before the whole aqua and magma event, the showcases were planned for months but now-
"Help me welcome the first coordinator to the stage, a resident of Pacifidlog herself!" Vivian announced. "Erica Birnbaum!"
The brown-haired girl ran out onto the stage and gave a small leap. Tossing the Pokéball up at the top, her Jynx burst out and landed in front of her.
"Blizzard and psychic!" she hollered.
With a deep breath, the human shaped Pokémon let out a massive icy wind from her mouth. Her eyes glew blue and hands raised up. Waving them around, the psychic field seemed to capture the powerful ice move. Causing it to swirl around in front of her like some sort of snowy tornado.
Compressing it down with her ESP, it transformed into a giant icicle. Standing tall in front of both coordinator & Pokémon.
"Brick Break!" Erica commanded.
Running forward, the ice psychic types fist glew with an orange tint. Punching the icicle, cracks formed, and it shattered. Thousands of specs of ice glistened over them, shimmering under the bright sun in the sky. A decent applause came from the audience as she narrowed her gaze.
"Now let's finish this!" She instructed. "Psychic once more!"
Slapping her hands together, her eyes glew blue once more. Spreading them out in opposite directions, the water around the platform started to move. She was able to creating a spinning ring of water without moving the raft. Lifting it over the stage, it crashed down directly onto Jynx.
A bright blur formed where the ice psychic type once stood. After about a minute, the ice finally consumed the entire displace, creating a much larger icicle.
She squinted, seeing some movement from within the display. A little more time passed, and the ice cracked once more. Breaking apart, Jynx landed at the base but not the entire thing shattered. As the sprinkled fluttered down, she noticed a giant ice-rose stood in the centre of the stage.
"And Erica presents us with a cool display of power and skill on this summer's day!" Vivian announced. "But what did our judges think? Mr Contesta?"
"It certainly had skill and demonstrated Jynx's two typings excellently." He nodded.
"I felt it was remarkable!" Mr Sukizo beamed.
"The display itself was certainly well polished but it didn't allow for Jynx to truly shine, keeping her behind the displays rather than front and centre of the focus." Palermo critiqued. "You'd do well to remember that while power and skill are important, nothing should upstage the Pokémon performing."
She gulped slightly at the harsh critique from the showcase queen. Seeing Erica walk off the stage and the next person take their place, she frown. It's clear as day she's had Drew's influence. She wouldn't be surprised if he directly told her to finish with the rose. And she is certainly a skilled coordinator. Even if she feels bad about the situation with Drew, she can't afford to go easy or get distracted.
Hearing her name called, she stood up and walked over to the stagehand. Following her to the back of the stage, she couldn't help but wonder why Drew has singled her out for this twisted behaviour of his. Could he have just been really upset over the Slateport contest? Sure, he was judged harsher due to it being her first contest but having won four ribbons, she's clearly no fluke. Harley might be petty but Drew just seems downright cruel right now.
Max bite down on his lower lip as he watched the Swellow skilfully pop the balloons the coordinator released. A shiny sheen shimmered on the feathers as he shot across the blue sky. While not the most impressive visually, it certainly showed of skill and accuracy. He just hoped May would be alright after the performance Erica opened the show with. She had certainly been the most impressive coordinator so far.
Glancing to the side, he looked over the rows of audience members and spotted a familiar green haired boy leaning against a tree with his Masquerain perched on his head. Scowling over to him, he couldn't stop his legs from standing up and walking towards him. Having to take a slightly extended route due to the layout of the chairs, he stopped once clear of the obstacles and pulled out a Pokéball.
"Hey Shade." He smiled at his ghost type. "Think you can help me out with something?"
Going into his plan to the ghost type, his newest team member was more than happy to comply. Happy with the plan, his puppet Pokémon disappeared into the shadows, and he looked around. Inwardly smirking, he saw one of the drink vendors just past the green-haired boys position.
Shoving his hands into his pockets, he took off over to said vendor, rattling some loose change in his pocket. As he walked past the older boy, he gave a sneering side glance but didn't stop. Reaching the vendor, he got a bottle of water and turned back. He barely got five steps towards the audience before finding a certain show over his own. Turning around he saw Drew looming over him with an arrogant smirk spread over his lips.
"What do you want?" he asked.
"Just to chat." He smirked. "When me and May spent time together, she'd talk a lot about you."
"What can I say, guess I'm pretty interesting." He shrugged. "Can't say she mentioned you at all."
"Cute." He sneered. "But tell me, Max, how does it feel?"
"How does what feel?" he asked.
"Knowing that despite spending three weeks helping your sister train, you just couldn't match my own experience as a coordinator." He flashed a smirk. "That it's just a matter of time before Erica is rewarded with her fifth ribbon and all that hard work would go down the drain."
"You don't know that." He frowned, stomping his foot down. "The appeals aren't even over yet."
"To think she had the likes of a top coordinator such as Serena and myself to help prepare for previous contests but for this one she had to rely on you." He continued. "She really is scrapping the bottom of the barrel. Are you even old enough to be a trainer?"
"I just helped her with battle tactics." He growled, grinding his teeth. "Turning it into a coordinator's style will be all her."
"Guess we can only expect a simple gym battle... assuming she makes it that far." He shrugged with a sigh. "Guess your dad can give her a pity badge then."
"What is your problem with her?" He raised his voice. "Why are you obsessed with hurting her?"
"She should be flattered I even spared her a second glance." He sneered. "To think she'd dump me and for what?"
"For cheating on her," he replied.
"Everyone does it." He turned around. "Both of my parents have seen other people for as long as I remember. To think she would embarrass me for using the opportunity to date the first Hoenn queen. She should be begging me to stay, not turning her back."
"And what's your excuse for Erica?" he asked. "What did she ever do to deserve being used like this?"
"She should be thankful I'd ever give her a second glance too," he replied, "this is probably the highlight of her dating experience."
"If this is the highlight, I'd hate to see her rock bottom." He laughed, turning around. "To think your inner self is so ugly you need to overcompensating by dragging everyone around you down to your level. Talk about pathetic."
Walking away from the teen-in-green, he took the long route to the other side of audience. Chancing a glance behind him, he no-long could make out his sister's ex and smiled. Seconds later, Shade popped out of the ground with a tape recorder floating beside him.
"You get it?" he asked, grabbing the tape recorder. Pressing the play button, he listened to the full confession and beamed. Holding it back out, the psychic picked it up once more. "Great job, Shade! Now I just need you to deliver it to May but maybe wait until after her appeals. It can't be long now until she's on."
Seeing his puppet Pokémon off, he took off back to the audience, taking his seat back next to Brock. The doctor-in-training glanced to him curiously, "where'd you go in such a hurry?"
"I erm, needed a drink." He lifted the bottle he brought for proof. "It's warm having the contest outside, ya know."
"Okay." He shrugged, gesturing to the stage. "I'm just glad you got back when you did. I think your sister is the next one on."
He turned just in time to see Vivian walking back on as the reminiscence of the previous show was removed. "Now help us welcome the final coordinator for today's Pacifidlog contest. From Petalburg city its May Maple!"
"Alright Bulbasaur!" She cheered, running onto the stage, tossing a Pokéball into the air. "Take the stage!"
In a flash of light, the grass poison type materialised on the stage. Her body seemed to tense up as she stumbled back towards May. Eyes darting around.
"Oh dear, it seems Bulbasaur has a case of stage freight!" Vivian announced. "If May doesn't do something, this could cost her big."
His sister dropped down onto her knees and pulled the seed Pokémon into a hug. Whispering something which couldn't quite be heard from the audience. It took a few seconds, but she seemed to calm her Kanto starter down. Letting her go, she smiled and stood back up.
"Now just like we practiced," she encouraged in a soft voice.
Giving a nod, the grass poison type turned back around. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath. Her bulb glew with a mystic light. Pulsating with growth, it erupted with a combination of purple, golden and green powders above, in the shape of a ball.
"Now vine whip and leech seed!" May instructed.
A spew of small brown seeds shot up into the display as two vines followed suit. Striking the powder cloud, brown roots emerge, containing the multicoloured ball.
Red illuminated the display as it flashed overhead. The different colours creating a natural firework. He remembered her practicing this at night and it looking great in the dark but even now it looks fantastic.
"And finish it with petal dance!" She threw a fist into the air.
Dozens of small pink sharp leaves blew up out of her bulb. Blowing the display even higher as the petals sliced through. The entire display exploded with the multiple colours sprinkling down. As the crowd's thunderous applause echoed, he couldn't help but giddily bounce in his seat.
"This is the most excited I've seen you at one of May's contests." Brock noted with a nod.
"What can I say?" he asked with a shrug. "We did a lot of training the last few weeks. Of course, I'm excited to see it in action."
"Now to see what our judges thought before we send them off to decide which of our coordinators shall move on to the battle rounds!" Vivian declared.
"While starting off on a rocky start, it certainly delivered and showed off both skill and style." Mr Contesta smiled.
"Remarkable!"
"The final display was the typical spectacle which any coordinator could put together without much to separate yourself. Disappointing for someone going for their fifth ribbon," Palermo added, "but the way you handled Bulbasaur at the start... it was intriguing."
Seeing his sister bowl, picking her seed Pokémon up from the floor. She disappeared off the stage and he relaxed back in his seat. Stretching slightly, he couldn't stop the wide grin from covering his face. Even if he isn't a contest expert, he knows most of the coordinators todays lacked the hype her typical competition does. Given the less than full roaster, he's fully expecting to see her move on... not to mention the present Shade should be delivering now.
May tightly hugged her grass poison type as she stepped foot back onto the beach. Glancing to the side, she smiled at the audience and let out a sigh as she relaxed. While slightly nervous after that start, she can't help but feel proud by the turns of events.
"You did great Bulbasaur!" May beamed.
"Saur." She sighed, nuzzling against her arm.
"Shup Shuppet!"
Spinning around, she let out a yelp as her brother's ghost type hovered behind her. Taking a deep breath and releasing to return her pulse to normal, she frowned at the laughing puppet Pokémon. He clearly found her reaction funny but before she could scold him, she noticed his eyes glowing blue. A small device floating around his body, and she held her hand out. It dropped in and the pure ghost type nodded, diving back into the ground.
Frowning down at the device, she hit the play button. Hearing her brother's and Drew's voice caused her mouth to drop slightly. Letting the recording finish, she stood still for about half a minute. A smile crept upon her face. Turning around she rushed towards the out shack where the rest of the coordinators would be. If she can get Erica to listen to this, then she'd see just what Drew is up to.
Max might be sneaky and diseeving but when not aimed at her... she couldn't ask for a better little brother. Not to mention he had some good jabs at Drew.
Making it to the out shack, she found Erica off by herself. She no-longer had Jynx out and was accompanied by a fierce looking Houndoom. Maybe it's just because the only experience she's had with the Pokémon came from Ash's or his battle with Flannery, but she gulped seeing the scary Pokémon. She might have her own dark type canine, but Mightyena is really a big softy... not something she can say about the part fire type. Shaking her head, she approached.
"Erica."
"Urg, what do you want now?" she asked, not even turning to face her. The dark Pokémon let out a low growl flaring his fangs. Gulping, she felt her seed Pokémon tremble in her arms, so she carefully recalled her back into her Pokéball.
"Heh, guess the scary mon needs protecting." She sneered. "You really think that opening is going to let you pass through?"
"I dunno," she shrugged, in a quiet voice, "I can only hope... but I'm proud of Bulbasaur regardless. She really tried hard up there and-"
"Tried hard? More like pinned for sympathy." She stood up, turning to face her. "But given her trainer, what can be expected?"
"What's that supposed to mean?" she asked, slightly raising her voice.
"You heard me," she replied, "whether it's getting pity ribbons for being a naive noob or tarnishing a guys good name just to boost your own profile."
Turning she walked away. Tears stung her eyes as she thought about the recording, she's got from Shuppet. Shaking her head, her eyes squeezed shut and a memory from her Rustboro contest filled her head. She felt her own blood boil as the tears escaped down her cheeks.
"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 stagehand 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."
"Sorry about the wait everyone." She blinked as her memories from the Rustboro contest disappeared. Vivian was back on the stage. "Our judges have finally decided which of our coordinators will be moving onto the top four to battle it out for our Pacifidlog ribbon!" She gestured up to the screen. May's image flashed first, followed by an older man in a sombrero with a grey moustache. A young boy around Max's age took the third spot with Erica being the final one. "And they are May, Poncho, Kimmy, and Erica! So, let's see the match ups!"
The images on the cards turned over to a simple Pokéball design. Piling on top of each other, two split off upwards to the top halve of the screen while the remaining two went downward. The top two turned over, revealing Erica and Poncho while the bottom two showed herself and the young boy.
She turned to see Erica walking over to the path back to the stage. Running forward, she placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her for a brief moment.
"Good luck in your battle." She offered a smile but the brunette hmphed and marched off towards the stage.
Faltering slightly, she turned to see the recording in her hand. How is she meant to help Erica and show her this recording? She doesn't want anything to do with her... not that she doesn't get it, Drew can be very convincing. He turned her against Sakura back in Rustboro and even created rifts between herself and Serena. While Erica's attitude is annoying, she can't help but feel pity for the girl. It's obvious to her Drew's just using her and she can't stop him.
"Erica has gone with Houndoom while Poncho has his Ludicolo!" Vivian's voice echoed, drawing her attention back to the stage. "With five minutes on the clock, let's get busy!"
She watched the first battle with a tentative scowl. It wasn't even close, despite their typing Erica and Houndoom drained their opponents points with stylish combinations. Ending with a Shadow ball spiralling with flames combination which took out the last of her opponents points around three minutes into the battle. If it wasn't clear before, obviously Drew has been training her for this contest. It didn't take long for them to pass each other on the switch of rounds.
"Try not to lose this," Erica sneered, "I want the pleasure of knocking you out myself. For the pain you put Drew through."
Ignoring her comment, she continued forward onto the stage. Her mind came to two different thoughts in that moment, given her competitiveness, she could use it to help with revealing the recording to her... and she won't try to make her listen before their final battle. After all, it would give her an unfair advantage to distraught her before the match. It's going to be hard enough on her without sabotaging the girls chances of winning a fifth ribbon.
She looked out over the field and noticed her opponent was a kid, around Max's age, maybe a bit older with spikey brown hair. Dressed in a blue jacket and shorts with a Pokéball in hand. Closing her eyes, she unclipped her Pokéball and took a deep breath to calm herself.
"Now for the second battle to see which coordinator shall meet Erica in the final round!" Vivian announced. "On the left, we have May Maple from Petalburg city! Having made quite the impression with her Bulbasaur's natural firework display! And on the right, we have Kimmy Shoney from Giban Island! His Wingull gave us a rainbow on this beautiful Pacifidlog day so we're in for a treat! Let's see who'll both sides will be using today!"
"Take the stage, Munchlax!" she declared, tossing her Pokéball into the air.
Her normal type materialised on the stage... lying flat on his back with a snooze bubble out of his nose. Rolling her eyes as she caught the device, her second hand tossed a piece of pink Pokéblock. The bubble popped and her normal type lept up. Snapping the treat in his mouth, he landed on his feet with a thud.
"You're up, Tokin!" He shouted, releasing his Pokémon. In a flash of light, a Linoone landed on the stage in front of Munchlax
Her mind flashed back to her dad's Linoone who'd spend most of the time in their house, playing with Max. Before she became a trainer, she never gave him a second thought. Always running around and usually banging into things but now she knows much better. Pulling out her Pokédex, she scanned her opponent:
Linoone, The rushing Pokémon. The final evolved form of Hoenn-variant Zigzagoon. Linoone always runs full speed and only in straight lines. If facing an obstacle, it makes a right-angle turn to evade it. This Pokémon is very challenged by gently curving roads
She frowned slightly with the last part of the entry. She'd always complain when her dad's Linoone would knock stuff over, but he really couldn't help it. She shook her head, knowing she'd need to apologise when returning home. Focusing on the pending battle, she inwardly smirked as she knew both Pokémon were normal type, meaning neither side would have an advantage and given the knowledge from both her dad and Max over the last three weeks she's got good odds. Narrowing her gaze, she focused on the opposing coordinator and rushing Pokémon.
"This will be a one-on-one contest battle between May and Kimmy!" Vivian explained, "as a reminder 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! With five minutes on the clock, we'll begin!
May Maple verses Kimmy Shoney: Top Four
She pursed her lips together as the opposing normal type charged forward. Munchlax tensed up, with a mystic glow surrounding his body. A power barrier formed around the rushing Pokémon. Crashing into the big eater, he barely moved as their opponent spun off to the side.
Wincing from the blow, some sort of static cover Linoone's body. Shaking his body, he looked back up and let out an angry bark.
Her own normal type set up his second stockpile as she glanced up to the screen. While both sides lost points, she took a slight lead.
"Alright let's get moving!" She hollered. "Defence curl into rollout!"
Curling up into a ball, his body glistened with a sheen. Rolling forward, he knocks into the rushing Pokémon and bounces off.
Picking up speed as he zoomed across the ground. Steering around, he narrowly avoided the edge of the field. Turning back with more momentum.
"Tokin use dig!" Kimmy shouted.
The pure normal type scurried forward, digging into the field. Her big eater Pokémon hit the lump of dirt around the hole and wobbled slightly. Being frown off the side off the stage, he splashed into the ocean. As the water settled, Munchlax appeared floating around on his back, lightly kicking his feet.
"And it seems May's Munchlax can swim!" Vivian announced. "One has to wonder how this will affect the battle going forward!"
Tokin lept out of a separate hole and flew high over the field. His body sparked and a massive bolt of electricity shot off.
Striking her newest team member, his entire body erupted with water. A psychic barrier formed, showing the shock not passing into the entire ocean.
He landed hard back on the stage, shaking his fur after the blast. While Linoone dived back into the field, disappearing into a third hole.
"Screech into the hole!" She shouted.
Walking over to the hole, he took a deep breath. Leaning over, he let out a high-pitched screech with the sounds waves direct down, cracking the floor.
Seconds later and Linoone burst out of the ground. Shaking his head as he stumbled side to side. Ending his own screech, the big eater Pokémon let out a massive yawn, stretching arms over his head. Her eyes glanced over to their opponent, and she frowned.
Linoone was stamping his feet on the ground. A red outline surrounded his body as she pulled out her Pokédex to check out the move:
Belly drum: this move maxes out the users attacking force whilst lowering their stamina for a massive all or nothing attack
The rushing Pokémon took off and quickly entered another double edge charge. Her eyes widened as she realised Kenny's plan.
"Spit up and then brace yourself!" she hollered.
Shaking his head, her pure normal type tensed up. Shaking violently, a bright clear beam shot out of his mouth. Striking their opponent head on.
Tokin slipped as it splashed on the ground, flipping over and losing all momentum. Continuing forward, he was helpless flying over the stage.
Sucking his gut in, Munchlax flung it forward for a reverse body slam. Using the extra weight to fling their opponent high into the air. His head tilted back to watch the fellow normal type as he flew high over the field. It didn't take long for the rushing Pokémon to start falling back down.
Her newest team member did a sidestep and about two seconds later a massive crash landed next to him. A cloud of dust covered both of them.
As it faded back down, her normal type was revealed, choking, and waving his hands to try and clear the dust. While Linoone remained unmoving in the creator from his own landing. Swirls replaced his eyes as a familiar buzzer echoed all around them.
"Linoone is unable to battle." Vivian declared. "Which means the coordinators moving onto the final round with Erica are May and her Munchlax."
May made it behind the stage and smiled down to her normal type. Giving him a word of thanks, she recalled him back into the device for a rest. She watched over the water as Erica was brought over on the small boat. She knew there wouldn't be a point in her returning to shore now as they repair the field. Offering a smile as the brunette stepped back onto the floating platform, she approached.
"I guess one of us will be qualifying for the grand festival in a few minutes," she spoke, holding a handout, "may the best coordinator win."
"I appreciate your support." She smirked.
"I'm guessing it's pointless trying to tell you my version of events?" she sighed.
"I guess you can listen," she replied.
"But do you want to make a bet?" she asked. Erica's eyes narrowed and she inwardly smirked, seeing she's got the girl's attention.
"What sort of bet?" she asked.
"If I win this contest, I just want you to listen to this recording." She pulled out the device from her brother's ghost type.
"What's it a recording off?" she asked.
"You only find out if you listen to it," she replied, trying to create her intrigue, "what do you say?"
"Okay," she mumbled, "but what do I get when I win?"
Closing her eyes, she felt a sick pool in the pit of her stomach. Swallowing hard, she grinded her teeth and turned to face the girl, "and if you win... I'll apologise to Drew." She hated the thought of doing such a thing... but if this is what's needed to help this girl then she's willing to take the risk.
"You've got yourself a deal," she replied, accepting the handshake. Both their eyes locked and narrowed, the familiar tension of facing a worthy coordinator from contests past surrounded them. With a word from one of the stage-workers, both of them made their way back to the field.
"And we're back!" Vivian announced as both turned to the stage. "Now help me welcome our two finalists for today's Pacifidlog contest!"
As the crowd erupted in applause, she glanced to the side and saw Erica scowl back. Seeing the glint in her eye caused May to inwardly smile. When Drew's not around, they can be at least civil. Using a calm breath to relax herself, they walked to opposing trainer boxes.
"Just like before, this final will be a two-on-two contest battle between May and Erica!" Vivian announced, "we'll have five minutes on the clock, and welcome our coordinators to reveal their pair of Pokémon for the final round!"
"Battle time, Houndoom!" Erica shouted.
The opposing Pokémon materialised on the stage, and she gulped slightly at the sight of her opponent. He crouched low, preparing to pounce whilst letting out a low growl. Her hand shook slightly as she pulled out her Pokédex for a quick refresher. She held it up to scan the dark Pokémon:
Houndoom, The Dark Pokémon. The final evolved form of Houndour. In a pack, the one with its horns raked sharply toward the back serves a leadership role. These Pokémon choose their leader by fighting among themselves. They spew flames mixed with poison to finish off their opponents
"Munchlax, take the stage!" She tossed her Pokéball up as she put the device away.
In a flash of light, her normal type landed with a thud. A dopey smile spread over his face as he patted his stomach, tongue hanging out. He turned to look at her and she sighed. Pinching the bridge of her nose, she pulled out another piece of Pokéblock and tossed it out. He jumped up, chomping it down in one bite with a wide smile on his face. He turned back and gave a friendly wave over to the dark fire type, earning a chuckle from the audience.
Faceplanting herself from the embarrassment, she took a deep breath to calm her nerves. Shaking her head, she focused her gaze on the pending battle.
"It's time to get this battle of student and mentor underway for today's Pacifidlog contest!" Vivian announced, "so with five minutes on the clock, let's begin!"
May Maple verses Erica Birnbaum: Final
Her opponent whipped his head and fired out a pure black beam of dark type energy, with a purple outline. Tensing up, his body glew with a mystic light. He took the dark pulse head one. Leaving scratches on the floor as he was pushed back a few inches. The darkness emphasising the stockpile glow.
Bringing his fire attack to an end, Houndoom replaced it with a stream of flames. The heat could be felt from over the field as it roared forward.
"Stomping tantrum shield!" She shouted.
Vibrating violently, the flames consumed his body. Stomping around, a cloud of dust surrounded her normal type.
The big eater Pokémon charged forward with the dust cloud protecting from the flames. Orange and brown colours radiated out from the clash.
Ending his flamethrower, Erica's dark fire type lept to the side. Narrowly avoiding the normal type, landed to the side, fangs crackling with electricity.
As her normal type came to a stop, coughing from the dust, he charged into his side. Knocking Munchlax over, his thunder fang snapped down on his belly. He burst out laughing as the dark type straddled over. Retracting in confusion, he tried a crunch but ended up with more tickles.
"Defence curl and rollout!" She shouted.
Using the surprise pause to their advantage, he curled up with a slight sheen. Rolling away from their opponent, building up momentum as he turned around.
Houndoom stood his ground and spat up blobs of toxic sludge. Covering the field around him in sludge bombs as Munchlax came forward.
Charging through the sludge, it barely affected her bug eater Pokémon. Spraying it to the side, he smashed into Houndoom.
The canine rolled into his own sludge as Munchlax rolled away, taking a wide berth to turn around. Her eyes shot towards the field. Houndoom set his sludge alight, creating a field of fire. A red outline surrounded his body as the dark type moved back into Munchlax's path. She pulled out her Pokédex:
Flash Fire: This ability allows the Pokémon to turn opposing flames and power up their own
A stronger stream of flames blasted through the fire field and struck her normal type. Exploding around him, he went flying to the side.
Splashing into the water around the field. Surfacing almost instantly, he was splashing around in a panic.
"Calm down, Munchlax, the water should help reduce the heat!" She shouted. "And remember the training we did! It's time!"
Taking a deep breath, the normal type dived underwater. Bouncing back out, a sphere of water in front of his mouth.
Launching it out over the field, he dived once more. Repeating this a few times, numerous water pulses rained over the fire-field.
Houndoom lept around, trying to avoid the splashes as his fire supply was distinguished. A jet of water erupted behind the field and Munchlax landed back on the stage, with one more water pulse ready. Launching it forward, it struck Houndoom head on, soaking him through.
"We've still got the flash fire boost!" Erica growled. "Flame charge!"
Shaking his fur, the canine charged forward with flames surrounding him. Picking up speed with each leap over the stage.
Munchlax took a deep breath, letting out an ear-bursting screech. The soundwaves caused Houndoom to wince as he took the blow.
Leaping up from his spot, the two collided. Due to the gravity and stronger stance, Munchlax's body slam overpowered Houndoom, knocking him back.
She glanced up to the scoreboard. About half the time passed and while she took about a third of Erica's points, she lost over half. The fire-field combo caused a massive hit to her to work on the back foot. Even with built in combinations, Munchlax is hardly the flashiest battler.
Turning back from the score, Houndoom shook the blow off. Panting heavily, her normal type couldn't defend as he was pounced upon.
Flames spewed out of the sides of Houndoom's mouth. Her eyes widened from the threatening close-ranged flamethrower.
"Spit up then remember what Max suggested!" She shouted.
Another clear beam shot out and sent Houndoom flying. Rolling onto his belly, Munchlax stood back up and pulled out a juice yellow sitrus berry from his belly pouch, hidden by his fur. In one gulp, he snacked down on the berry and almost instantly, he shot up with the energy boost. Putting the berry top back.
His stomach glew with a mystic light and she smirked. Max suggested making the most of Munchlax's recycle move by giving him a berry.
"This is not happening!" Erica cried out. "Get it Houndoom!"
Charing forward with flames surrounding his body. She couldn't help but feel like Houndoom was fuelled by his trainer's anger. Running over the field.
Stomping around himself, a cloud of dust surrounded Munchlax. Charging forward, the two collided once more.
Flames and dust flew all over the stage as both Pokémon were covered by the clash. Blocking her eyes from the two elements, she tried to peak through.
"Dark fire tornado!" Erica's voice echoed over the collision.
A bright flash formed from the clash. Squeezing her eyes shut, she took a deep breath. "Rest!"
Feeling the wind blow back, she peeking out to see some sort of combination of fire spin and dark pulse. Both Pokémon swirled around the centre of the stage, with the differing rows contrasting off each other. Squeezing her hands shut, she looked at the screen and saw another chunk of points taken.
The combination died down, revealing scorch marks around the floor with her normal type in the centre. Snoozing slight, she took more interest in Houndoom.
He was panting heavily and covered in sweat. A low grumble came from her big eater and with a dopey smile, Munchlax stood back up, looking brand new.
"Water Pulse!" She hollered.
Forming a sphere of water in front of his face, the canine tried to move out of the way. Exhaustion clearly getting better of Erica's dark Pokémon.
He tossed the ball of water and it crashed into the dark fire type. Collapsing onto the ground, three buzzers echoed as she felt her heart pump harder.
"And Houndoom has been declared unable to continue." Vivian announced. "Meaning the winners are May and her Munchlax!"
May smiled as she stood on the centre stage with the crowd still staring at her. Munchlax stood by her feet with Bulbasaur in her arms. Part of her felt like the knockout victory wasn't exactly fitting for a contest but given the limited time to prepare her normal type, it was her best option.
"Well done, May, you've come a long way." Mr Contesta held out the ribbon for her. "And we look forward to see what you come up with for the grand festival."
"Thank you." She bowed and accepted the ribbon. It had a dark orange ribbon with a lighter shade around the rim. A golden pin made up the centre piece and she heard her grass poison let out a happy cry from the achievement. She giggled with a tingling excitement. "And thank you both too."
"Well folks, that wraps up this Pacifidlog 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 as we count down the time to the grand festival which due to the delays shall take place in four months at Slateport!"
With the crowd erupting in cheers, May gave a small bow and walked off the stage. Setting her seed Pokémon down, she embraced both of them in a hug before recalling them both. She took a moment to place the final ribbon in her box, right in the centre. Seeing all five slots filled, she couldn't stop the wide grin from spreading over her face. Putting it back away, she stood and approached the boat to take them back to shore... with Erica already waiting.
Once on the water-vehicle, an awkward silence consumed the boat as the travelled away from the floating stage. Swallowing hard, she pulled out the recorder and handed it over to the brunette. She stared at her for a while before accepting it. Pressing the play button, the conversation between Drew and her little brother played once more. By the time they reached the shore, the recording ended.
Tears were streaming down her face as her hand trembled. The device slipped onto the floor, and she bolt off the boat, across the beach. Closing her eyes, she felt the reminiscence of her own heart break re-emerge. She felt awful for it, but she knew it was only a matter of time before Drew did something to her.
Picking up the device, she made her own way off the boat and walked over to the audience area. She had the best part of a month to prep for this contest and it was certainly one of the best experiences she's had as a trainer. It was one of the most productive times her team experienced, and she really got to grow closer to Max throughout. If she's got four months until the grand festival, just imagine the things they can prepare. While their next destination is Sootopolis for both Ash's gym and Serena's showcase, maybe they could return home after. Not only would it be a good training place with her full team, but she could so much from her dad, and Max as well. It would put her in the best position possible to win the grand festival... and put Drew into his place.
As she approached the group, she couldn't help but notice Serena had already wondered off. She frowned, wondering just what's gotten into her mentor and friend. She knew the Courtney situation has been getting to her but just what exactly happened between them? She remembered some of the stories from their previous adventures and she had been around death before... why is this any different now?
"You did great May!" Her brother exclaimed, running to embrace her with a hug. She gladly returned it.
"A lot of it came down to you, Max," she replied, "I wouldn't have known where to start with Munchlax... or really been prepared for some of the combinations Erica put together. She's one tough coordinator."
"Well, she still has some contests left before the grand festival." Brock smiled. "You might end up facing her again."
"I hope so," she replied, "we might've got off on the wrong foot, but I think we'll be fine."
"So, she listened to you?" Ash asked.
"Not quite." She glanced down to her little brother and smiled before turning back. "She listened to the recording Max got of Drew admitting the stuff he's done. While she's hurting now, she's tough. I can't wait to see her again in the grand festival and together we'll really give 'em a show!"
"What's this recording you got?" Brock asked, crossing his arms.
"Hehehe, it's a funny story actually," her brother chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head.
"How about you tell it on the way back to the Pokémon centre?" Ash asked. "We need to prepare to leave tomorrow, and I bet Munchlax and Bulbasaur could use a nice rest. Right May?"
"Right." She nodded.
The raven-haired boy lead the walk back across the island and she helped Max explain the story of the recording. She might've found his antics in the past annoying but when it came down to it, he's the best brother she could've asked for.
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...