Chapter Thirteen
"Come on out, guys," Serena whispered quietly, pointing her Pokeballs towards the ground.
Two bursts of bright lights lit up the dim early morning, two shapes materializing in front of Serena. She swallowed heavily as she watched her Pokemon take form, Isla and Flambé looking up at her. Flambé's ears flicked up, while Isla tossed her head, both of them watching her expectantly.
Tears stung Serena's eyes. "I'm... I'm so sorry."
"Kin?"
"Rhhh."
"I... I put you in a fight you couldn't win," Serena whispered, voice shaking. "You guys got hurt trying to protect me, and then... then you were almost stolen by someone I put my trust in!" Tears were starting to pour down her face. "Flambé, y-you didn't trust them, you warned me, b-but I didn't listen and I– I– I'm sorry! I'm the worst trainer ever!"
She tried to wipe the tears away, tried to keep her crying under control, but she couldn't stop the sobs from coming now. Guilt flooded her as she cried, hunching over as her voice wavered.
"I understand why you wouldn't want to stay with me after th-this– and if you don't w-want to, that's fine! I'll find you a good trainer to go to, s-someone that could protect you and– and–!"
She was cut off as she felt something rough nudge against her arm. She peered out to see Isla gently bumping her horn up against her, letting out soft rumbles. The Pokemon's scarlet eyes were full of concern, pressing close to her.
"Fenna!" Flambé yipped, the Fennekin running up and jumping into her arms. She fumbled to keep hold of the fox, who was now nuzzling her, fur warm against her skin. Flambé looked up at her, his gaze full with nothing but concern.
Serena wiped her eyes. "I don't deserve you guys."
Her Pokemon let out cries of protest at this, pressing closer to their trainer.
It was strange being on a Rhyhorn track without her mother.
Serena looked out at the track, Pewter City's laid out in a large field. She and Forrest made their way towards the track, the two of them walking in silence. There was a small group forming on the north side, where the sign ups for the race were taking place. As they made their way Forrest's steps seemed to get slower, and Serena looked back at him in confusion, but she soon realized why.
"Looks like Harrison is here," someone said as they approached. "Still sane enough to race, hmm?"
Forrest said nothing, just heading towards the table where the sign ups were taking place. Serena trailed after him, eyes flickering about at the people looking in their direction.
"Rhyhorn and I would like to enter for the novice division race tomorrow," Forrest muttered, reaching for the paperwork. The woman manning the sign ups seemed to barely pay any attention, but pushed it towards him.
"So would I," Serena said, stepping forward as Forrest shuffled to the side, filling out his information. "This will be my first race, actually."
This time the woman did look up, scanning Serena with a critical eye. She did know that she stood out slightly– since the race was't today she wasn't dressed for the role, instead in a casual dress, hair done up and makeup a bit more fancy than usual, as she had the time to do so this morning. She always felt more confident when she could express herself this way, but clearly that wasn't working out in her favor at the moment.
"You have to sign up to be a Rhyhorn racer at the Pokemon Center before you can join any race, dear," The woman said in what was clearly a fake sweet voice.
"I already have," Serena replied stiffly.
"Alright then," The woman said. "Since this is your first race you do understand that you have to have your own Rhyhorn and gear for the race, that is not provided in any format. All divisions are highly competitive, and racing is not for the casual."
"...I'm aware," Serena said, teeth gritted. "I have everything I need– can you please sign me up?"
The woman crinkled her nose, before pushing a scanner forward. "Please insert your trainer's license, Pokedex, or other League-approved ID."
Serena took out her Pokedex, carefully sliding it in the machine. It whirled and beeped, no doubt her information showing up, but the woman didn't seem to be looking at it at all. A small card was printed out, which she handed over to Serena without much care– before pushing some papers her way.
"Please fill out this paperwork, and then tomorrow present this card at the track, and you'll be permitted to race," the woman said. "All information you will need to know about the races and when you'll be expected to be there are on the papers."
"Thank you," Serena said, biting back the sarcasm, and she shifted over next to Forrest to fill hers out. She was not happy with how they were managing the race– because if had she been a newcomer that knew nothing about racing beforehand she probably would have just looked for the time the race began and showed up then– and wouldn't have looked for the information that told racers to arrive early, where they could get the Rhyhorns saddled up– information that all first time racers should be told.
"Looks like the competition will be non-existent in this race," one of the other racers signing up muttered.
"A princess and the madman's son– not even a challenge."
"Looks like they're pretty close."
"Do you think the boy is hallucinating having a soulmate like his old man?"
Serena gritted her teeth, and was more than happy to hand over her paperwork and leave with Forrest.
Serena always felt like a completely different person when she was racing.
Her hair was tied back in a loose ponytail to keep it out of her face, a helmet sheltering most of her head. Her pink tracksuit often felt like a prisoner's jumpsuit as she zipped it up, sweaty and uncomfortable. Boots were heavy on her feet, leather gloves feeling thick and uneven despite having been perfectly tailored to her hands.
"Oh wow," Forrest said, watching as Serena saddled up her Rhyhorn– the leather of the saddle and harness worn, but in good condition. Isla tossed her head, but otherwise stood still to allow her rider to work. "You look completely different."
Serena threw him a questioning glance, and he held up his hands slightly. "Not as a bad thing," he said hastily. "Just seeing you all geared up for riding is pretty different from your normal style."
"Yeah," Serena agreed, shifting through a leather case, which held all of her supplies related to Rhyhorn racing. She pulled out a large sanding block, beginning to file down the rocky hide of the Rhyhorn. She focused on the plates where her feet and legs would be resting, making sure to smooth down any jagged bits of stone so they wouldn't cut her. "Nessicary for riding, though."
Isla let out a rumble, tilting her head forward, allowing Serena to see some rocky growth under her crest, which must have been causing her some discomfort, and began to smooth it down, before pulling out a brush to make sure the dust didn't settle in any crevices in the Rhyhorn's hide.
They were in the gym preparing their Rhyhorns for the race today, Forrest having insisted that it would be easier to care for the Pokemon here than at the track's stables. The whole gym was designed for rock types, but still it was a different experience. However, after how she had been treated yesterday... she was more comfortable here.
Forrest and his Rhyhorn were already all set for the race, the boy's routine a bit more simple compared to Serena's. His Rhyhorn's hide was more rough and gritty, the saddle on the Pokemon's back being one more used for casual Rhyhorn riding rather than racing– complete with leather pouches and pockets for storage and carrying supplies. Serena guessed that it was meant to carry supplies for a journey, something her saddle lacked as you didn't want to weigh the Rhyhorn down anymore than you had to. She did have some saddle bags that could be attached to the saddle if needed, but she had never used them before.
"Would you like to use this?" Serena asked, holding up the sanding block. "Makes it so your legs aren't quite as beat up after the race."
"Thank you," Forrest said, taking it from her. "I've never really thought about filing down anything more than unnatural growths before."
"No one at the track has suggested it before?" Serena asked as Forrest began sanding down his Rhyhorn, as that was standard Rhyhorn-riding care, before realizing how stupid the question was– she had seen how they had treated Forrest during sign ups.
She didn't know if the reason they had treated her the way she had was because she had been there with Forrest, or if it really had been because she had been all 'dolled' up.
Serena continued brushing the dust and loose sand from Isla, stomach churning as she processed how the Harrison family was treated here in their own city. All because their father wanted to find and bring his soulmate home.
She remembered how little and pathetic she had felt when she was younger and mentioned anything about her own soulmate. Teachers writing home notes in concern with Serena's focus on her so-called 'soulmate', her mother's disappointed look as she told her how hurtful and offensive it was to fake a soulmate connection.
"Hey! Serena!"
Serena looked up, a small smile flickering on her face when she saw Ash jogging into the gym, Houndour and Flambé at his side. He was grinning as he approached them and the Rhyhorns, before pausing to look at them.
"Hi Ash," she said, shifting, well aware that he was looking at her new outfit. She felt uneasy, because she didn't like presenting herself like this. She didn't feel like herself, more like an impostor in her tracksuit.
"Fenne?" Flambé stared up at her, before letting out a yawn of confusion, a whine filling the air.
"Hey Flambé," Serena said softly. "Did you have fun with Ash?"
"Yeah– he helped me and Houndour with a few ideas for our contest routine," Ash said, smiling. "You're really dressed for the role! You're so going to win this race, Serena!"
"There are a few locals like me that enter every race," Forrest said. "They know the track, and they're more dedicated to the sport than me."
"You're doing it for the prize money, right?" Serena said, trying to remember everything the Harrisons said last night.
He patted his Rhyhorn's horn, which was much longer than Isla's. However it wasn't as smooth, clearly having been using it in battles, while Isla had only been in a handful of fights in her entire life.
"Yeah, there's a small prize for locals entering– keeps racing numbers up," Forrest said. "But if you can manage to land in the top three there's an even bigger reward. I've only managed to place twice in all my races, but anything can always make the difference."
"When does the race start?" Ash asked.
"In just over an hour," Forrest replaced, glancing at a watch. "However, me and Serena should probably be there pretty soon." He gritted his teeth. "I have to be there as soon as possible, actually. They've recently started calling my name first, and if I'm not there in time I can't race."
Ash's brow furrowed. "...That's messed up."
Forrest shrugged, filing down a few more spots on his Rhyhorn's plates, before handing the sanding block back to Serena. She tucked it away into her case, while Forrest recalled his Rhyhorn to its Pokeball. He glanced at Ash and Serena, before shuffling towards the door.
"I should probably leave now," he replied. "It will probably be better for you if we don't arrive together, Serena. I'll see you at the race."
With that he headed out towards the door, his Rhyhorn's Pokeball clenched tightly in his hand. Silence lingered in the gym as the door swung shut behind him, and Isla nuzzled Serena in worry.
"...There has to be something we can do," Ash muttered. "People just can't treat them like that!"
"You should have been there yesterday," Serena said grimly. "Some of the other racers signing up were absolutely horrible to him, and the people running the whole thing too."
Ash looked at her in worry. "They didn't treat you badly because you were with him, right?"
"...No," Serena said quietly– and it was technically not a lie. Sure they hadn't been kind to her or Forrest, but they had treated her as ignorant just from the way she had dressed. "I just signed up as quickly as I could." She continued to brush at Isla's hide, despite her not needing it anymore. "Um, would you be willing to watch Flambé during the race? I don't want to keep him in his Pokeball all day."
"Kin...?" The Fennekin whimpered, taking a step forward.
Ash knelt down, stroking his fur. "Of course! We'll both be cheering you on in the race."
"Thank you," Serena said, giving a tight smile– before swinging herself up into the saddle. "Um, I better get going, like Forrest said I need to be there early."
Ash was watching her closely. "Serena, are you sure you're okay?"
"Yep!" Serena said, forcing a smile on her face. "Could you open the door for me? I want to ride Isla to the track, get her muscles moving and her blood flowing, you know?"
"...Of course," Ash said slowly, before moving to the large double doors, pushing them open so Serena could head out. She nudged Isla in the side, urging the Rhyhorn forward, who lumbered towards the doors. "I'll be cheering you on, Serena."
"Thank you, Ash," Serena said warmly, but she couldn't bring herself to look at him.
Here she was, having people cheer her on and wanting her to win– when she didn't even care about racing. Taking up a slot from people that truly loved the sport– or from those who needed the rewards it had to offer! Like Forrest and his family! She had plenty of funds for a journey at the moment, for her there was no point to racing except as a career that she didn't want.
But this was what her mother had been preparing her for.
Serena took in a deep breath, and nudged Isla's side again, urging the Rhyhorn into a trot. She never felt uncomfortable in a saddle, she really didn't mind riding Isla, but everything that came with racing... she just felt no thrill. She didn't like what gear she had to wear, or how people looked at her. She'd rather just take Isla on a ride around the city, not push her through a track.
But nothing could last forever, and soon enough the city was behind her and the Rhyhorn track in front of her– even more busy than sign ups yesterday. Or perhaps that was just due to everyone having their Rhyhorns with them, all of the Pokemon saddled up and ready to race. She spotted Forrest right away– who was off to the side, a number one attached to his saddle and track suit, showing that they had indeed called him first as he had predicted.
"Number four!" A voice called out. "Ren Stacy!"
A boy led his Rhyhorn forward to get their numbers for the race, and Serena looked about– able to spot a two and three among the crowd– meaning that she hadn't missed them calling for her number. She let out a sigh, not sure if she should be relieved or not. She paused near the edge of the group, carefully sliding off of Isla, waiting to be called.
"Oh my Mew– that Rhyhorn is gorgeous!"
Serena looked up, looking up to see a girl about her age looking at Isla. She recognized her as one of the people from sign-ups from yesterday– but the dark-haired girl didn't seem to recognize her. Instead she just admired Isla, a Rhyhorn of her own by her side. The people she had been with turned as well, and before Serena knew it she found herself being pulled into a conversation with them.
"She's about five years old," She answered uncertainly as questions were thrown at her, eyes flickering across the group– two of them she recognized from yesterday.
"Well you took good care of her," they said in admiration. "What a gorgeous example of a racing Rhyhorn– who's her breeder?"
"Vide," Serena replied. "Um, they're not from Kanto, so you probably haven't heard of them."
"Figured, based on your accent," Someone said with a smile. "Where are you from? Kalos? Galar?"
"Kalos," Serena confirmed.
"There's some big names in Rhyhorn racing there," the first girl said, grinning. "Ever had the opportunity to meet one of the pros?"
I was raised by one. Serena thought, but gave a tight smile. "I've been to a lot of the professional division races."
"That's so awesome!" Another person gushed.
Isla took a few steps forward, sniffing at some of the other Rhyhorn, before letting out a low bellow. The others responded in kind, tossing their heads slightly, and shuffling about. The earth below them seemed to sway slightly, as if responding to the ground types around them. It was nice to see such powerful creatures greet each other so gently, and Serena couldn't help but relax slightly.
Another name was called out, the Rhyhorn racers all looking up, but it was no one from the small group Serena found herself in. Someone's gaze settled on Forrest as he stood off to the side, and let out a small scoff.
"Looks like Harrison's can learn new tricks, he's been showing up early in the more recent races."
"Our gym is already ruined with that name, but now we have to have one of them in every race too."
"Looks like the princess from yesterday hasn't shown up," someone snickered.
"Who's surprised by that?"
Serena swallowed. "Um... who's Harrison?"
"A family of wackos that live here in the city."
"Flint Harrison used to actually be a respected gym leader, but after he lost his soulmate he went off the deep end."
"Actually he's basically on the run right now, he jumped through a bunch of crazy loopholes to make sure they still control the gym even when he ran off. It's made things a mess around here though, a gym leader is supposed to be someone that can help the city, you know?"
"...I see," Serena said slowly.
"Serena Yvonne!"
Serena jumped slightly as her name was called, looking up to see someone holding the number seven in their hand. The small group she was with perked up at the name, and Serena felt her stomach twist slightly.
"Yvonne, there's a name in Rhyhorn racing!" Their eyes scanned the crowd to see who would go forward. "Do you think there's a relationship?"
"If you're talking about Grace Yvonne," Serena said, stepping forward. "Then yes, that's my mother." Their eyes fell on her, gaze widening with awe, and Serena felt a jolt of bitterness run through her. "Oh, and by the way, you guys were wrong about the girl from yesterday– the precious 'princess' you were talking about is here– and the Harrisons are not a bunch of wackos– they're the only ones here in Pewter that actually seem to have a heart."
She didn't stop to see if her words would have any effect, she doubted they would, but it felt good to snap regardless. She headed up towards the front, head held high, and heard more murmurs about the mention of the name 'Yvonne'. Isla trotted right behind her, throwing glares at those around them– and Serena took the numbers without a word, before heading over to stand by Forrest.
"You'll get a bad reputation if you're near me," Forrest hissed, glancing out as he saw eyes focused on them.
"I don't care," Serena said, carefully placing the numbers on Isla's saddle, then on her tracksuit. "Everyone here is nothing but a clique of gatekeepers and honestly I want nothing to do with them."
"Serena..." Forrest said. "I'm serious–"
She looked up at him. "So am I. I know what it's like to be belittled for no one believing what you say about your soulmate, and the fact that they treat your whole family the way they do just because your dad told the truth... it makes me sick, Forrest. Your family deserves better."
Forrest gave a smile. "...Thanks Serena. I'm sure things will get better eventually."
Serena looked down at her number– seven, supposedly a lucky number. "I hope it will be sooner rather than later."
That luck didn't seem to last long though– as it wasn't long until someone approached them.
"I'm here to check your Rhyhorn's moveset," the man explained, and he held a Pokedex in hand. "All moves are of course banned from racing, but there are some that can be used under the radar, as such we make a note of all Rhyhorns that know those attacks so a closer eye can be kept on them."
"You haven't checked anyone else's," Serena said, eyes sweeping across the small crowd.
"Someone has to be first," the man said, shrugging. "Anyways, the list of notable moves are as follows: Bulldoze, Scary Face, Icy Wind, Attract, Rock Tomb, Mud Shot, Rock Polish, Double Team, Mud-Slap, Roar, Sand Attack, and Swagger. Does your Pokemon know any of these moves?"
All moves that affected speed, or could impact mobility. It made sense that an eye would be kept out for such attacks, if used stealthy enough it could be used to impact the race. Isla had never been trained for any attacks though. "No. Isla only knows Horn Attack."
"Hmm," the man said, before raising the Pokedex, scanning the Rhyhorn. She backed up a few steps, tossing her head in protest, but a robotic voice spoke up.
"This Rhyhorn knows the moves: Tackle, Horn Attack, and Dragon Rush."
Serena stared in shock. "...Dragon Rush? What– since when?"
"That's an egg move," Forrest said. "Do you know your Rhyhorn's parentage? If you have any dragons or dragon-like Pokemon in her bloodline it could have been passed on."
"I'd– I'd have to look," Serena said, staring at her Rhyhorn. Tackle was another move she hadn't known Isla knew, but of the two Dragon Rush was the most surprising one. "Can... Can you use Dragon Rush?"
Isla let out a confused rumble, and tossed her head. "Egg moves usually require some training to master, and if she hasn't used it before, well, it would probably take some time to fully teach."
The man cleared his throat. "Can you two chat later– I don't have all the time in the world. Harrison, what is your Rhyhorn's moveset?"
"Same as last time," Forrest replied, but when the man just stared at him, he sighed. "Drill Run, Rock Blast, Stomp, Curse, Smart Strike, and Dig."
The man scanned his Rhyhorn with the Pokedex regardless, the machine confirming the exact same thing that Forrest had said. The man let out a grunt, before turning away from them without a word, and headed off towards another group of racers. Serena didn't notice how tense she was until after he had left, and he let out a shaky sigh. Forrest glanced at her, before giving her a small smile.
"If you'd like, after the race, I can try to help you figure out Dragon Rush?" He offered.
Serena smiled, looking down at Isla. "I would like that," she said, and her Rhyhorn nuzzled her. She had raised this Pokemon since she was a calf, but there was still so much she didn't know about her. "I think we both would."
Serena let herself fall into her normal racing routine after that, her only focus being on staying near Forrest and ignoring everyone else. She and Forrest didn't have much to say to each other, but they both seemed fine with that. When it came time for the race to start, they were forced to part ways to line up in the lane that matched their numbers– the track able to host twelve Rhyhorns total. As numbers seven and one, there was a fairly large gap between them.
Unfortunately, one of the people next to Serena had been one of the girls from the group before. She had opened her mouth to try to speak, but Serena refused to look at her. She simply mounted onto Isla, giving a small nudge with her heel to get herself to line up properly within the track. Isla tossed her head in reply, a foot pawing at the ground.
She knew it was time to race, and seemed eager to get onto the track.
Serena didn't want to look at her fellow racers, or out at the track, so instead she looked up at those watching. There was a good sized crowd gathered about, but it was small compared to many races she had been to back in Kanto. This was the novice division though, and not the professional like what her mother raced in, so the smaller number of people was to be expected.
"Hey! Serena! Over here!" A voice shouted as she scanned the crowd, and her eyes met a pair of familiar brown ones. Ash was as close to the track as he could get, waving one arm overhead to get her attention. In the other he was holding Flambé, and at his feet was Houndour– who was howling with Ash's cheering.
She raised her hand, giving a small wave, smiling a smile that she didn't truly feel. A bit farther back from where Ash was she could see the Harrison family, along with Misty. There was a small berth about them, which made Serena's jaw clench with frustration. That fact didn't stop the kids from cheering along loudly with the crowd– Brock having one of the kids up on his shoulders as he stood by Misty.
"Welcome, Pewter City!" A loud voice over the speakers announced, causing everyone to fall quiet to listen. "To the Novice Division of the Kanto Rhyhorn Racing! We're excited to have you all here today to watch this exciting race. We..."
Serena tuned out the announcer, simply adjusting herself in the saddle. Other racers were doing the same, and all the Rhyhorn began shifting and bellowing. They knew that it was almost time, and they were waiting for the signal from their riders to take off racing down the track. When a Rhyhorn charged they became single minded with their focus, and it was up to their rider to keep them on the track. Since this was the novice division they would only be going around the field once– and every second in the race mattered. Getting ahead right from the beginning was key.
Serena's eyes couldn't help but flicker towards Forrest, who was at the very inner edge of the track, barely visible with the other racers between them. Serena then looked out towards Ash, who was still cheering loudly. She then closed her eyes, and looked to where her mother had always taught her to be focused on– the track. That was the only thing that mattered in the race.
"The race will now begin..."
Serena raised herself up slightly as the countdown began, holding the reins tightly in her hands. Isla lowered her head, muscles tensing. As soon as the single was given Serena let out a cry, and Isla burst forward with a powerful gait. The announcer's voice was swallowed up in the rumble of a dozen Rhyhorn, tremors rumbling out from the track as they moved forward, trying to gain the lead.
Serena tugged the reins slightly to the left, knowing that the inner part of the track was the place to be. She cut off the rider next to her fairly quickly, glancing over her shoulder to make sure no one was gaining.
She tried not to focus on the riders, nor did she try to press to the front right away– that would only serve in tiring out Isla. She found herself at the center of the group as they ran, and that she was fine with. She gave quick glances over her shoulder, shifting Isla across the track to make sure no one would pass them.
She hesitated when she saw Forrest approaching, however.
A race was a race, and she shouldn't see it as any other way– but for Forrest, this wasn't a race. This wasn't about the sport or the thrill, it was about the prize money, a means to support his family.
Serena knew that she should cut him off, make sure that no one could get ahead of her. That was how she was taught to race, that was what her mother wanted her to do. She was in fourth, he was in fifth, and neither of those positions would yield them any prize money. Her mother would want her to make it into the top three at least, so she did what her mother would do– and tried to pass the person in third, ignoring Forrest as he came up behind her.
Immediately the one in front of her shifted to block her pass, and Serena simply moved Isla about to try to pass her from the other side. It was risky to continuously try to pass with someone actively blocking your attempts– it tired out a Rhyhorn, and pressing it was a rookie mistake that Serena knew not to make. But this was the novice division, and no one would question someone making such a move in their first official race.
So while she and the person in third danced about, neither making progress, Forrest put on a burst of speed and passed both of them– moving himself up to third. The rider in front of Serena let out a sound of protest, and tried to put on a burst of speed– but Serena did the same. And this time she did not let herself play by any rookie moves, and as soon as the opportunity opened up she had Isla race forward and reclaim their spot in fourth– this time with Forrest ahead of them in third.
She did not try to press him, but instead she went completely on the defensive as they approached another turn. Serena paid no attention to the riders ahead, the ones in the coveted spot, she focused solely on making sure no one would pass her. The last turn was up ahead, and it was now people were putting on final bursts of speed, hoping to pass up exhausted Rhyhorn, but she was not going to let anyone pass, and she maintained her spot in fourth as they reached the final turn.
With one final glance over her shoulder to make sure that she wasn't about to be passed, she urged Isla forward. She watched as the first two Rhyhorns crossed the finish line– followed by Forrest in third; and then she and Isla right in his shadow. Isla's pounding hooves slowly came to a stop as Serena gave a gentle tug on her reins. She didn't bother looking to see who had crossed behind her, because she had done what she had needed. With Forrest in the top three that secured him the prize money for his family– and she could only hope that no one noticed that she had thrown the race.
Her heart was pounding as all the Rhyhorns at last came to a stop, the powerful animals breathing heavily, huffing and snorting. The cheers from the crowds were beginning to die down, all eyes slowly turning towards the announcer.
"The results are in!" He bellowed, giving a loud whoop. "And what a race that was! In first place we have Ren Stacy– who will be moving up to the Intermediate Division with this victory– congratulations Ren!"
A thunderous cheer echoed through the stadium once more– the Rhyhorns joining in with their own low bellows. Ren nudged his Rhyhorn in the side, moving forward towards the crowd, his Rhyhorn doing a small victory trot. He seemed very proud, and Serena didn't blame him, moving out of the novice division was something to celebrate.
"In second place we have Aiko Sato!" The announcer cried as the cheers began to die down, which only led to another round of applause to fill the track. Aiko urged her Rhyhorn forward as well, following the same path that Ren had taken, a few of her family members near the edge of the track proudly standing there as they clapped and stomped their feet, easily the loudest ones cheering and Aiko lined up next to Ren.
Serena felt her stomach tightened as the announcer continued, his tone shifting to slightly uncertain– and she guessed he was a Pewter native. "And in third place we have Forrest Harrison..."
Serena made sure to cheer as loudly as she could, as did the Harrison children. Misty and Ash were giving their own loud whoops and shouts, but aside from them the only ones clapping were those who seemed to be from out of town, whose cheers slowed as they looked around in confusion at the lack of enthusiasm– but Forrest guided his Rhyhorn forward regardless, smiling out of his family, one of the only ones cheering now aside from Serena, and a man who stood off to the sidelines, his shouts echoing through the silent crowd:
"That's my boy!" He cried. "Way to go Forrest! That's it, son!"
Forrest froze on top of his Rhyhorn at those words, and the Harrison clan quietened down as well. All eyes shifted towards the lone man who didn't cease in his enthusiastic cheers. He wore a red beanie on his head, and a bushy beard covered much of his face, but that couldn't hide who he was from those that knew him. Forrest whipped his Rhyhorn around, staring at the man beaming with pride, and his voice cracked as he spoke.
"D-dad?" Forrest said in disbelief.
The man looked up, pulling his hat off of his head, wrinkles around his eyes as he smiled. He had the same dark spiky hair like many of the Harrison siblings had, and there was no denying who he was.
"Hey Forrest," Flint said, a huge smile on his face.
"Dad!" Forrest cried again, throwing himself off of his Rhyhorn as he raced forward. He wasn't the only one, all of the Harrison children letting out cries of excitement, before bolting towards the man as quickly as they could, leaving Ash, Misty, and Rose behind.
"Daddy!" Squeals of excitement echoed out, and Forrest was the first one to reach Flint, jumping over the fence that separated the track from the crowd. He slammed into Flint, arms wrapping about him, and the older man was laughing. Moments later the rest of his children reached him, nearly knocking the man to the ground as they mobbed him.
Serena felt tears stinging her eyes, but it was nothing compared to the tears coming from the Harrisons. One of the younger children had climbed up onto his father's shoulders, they all clamoring to reach him, their voices carrying out as they simply tried to be heard. Flint embraced each one of them, kissing their foreheads, ruffling their hair, smiling and crying and laughing and just trying to hold them all. The beard on his face was skewed, showing it to be fake, solely having been there to hide his face like his hat.
"Dad," Brock was one of the last ones to reach him, having let the younger children go first, but he was shaking. Flint looked at him for one moment, before bringing him into a crushing hug. Flint muttered something in his eldest's ear, and Serena could only guess what it was– but Brock broke down crying, burying his face into his father's shoulder.
Rose was slowly approaching the group, the older woman smiling at her son and grandchildren– but she wasn't the only one approaching. Serena's stomach twisted when she saw an officer slowly approaching the reunion, the same one that had brushed aside what had happened to her in Mt. Moon.
"So, you finally have decided to show your face 'round these parts again, huh Harrison," the police chief said with a sneer.
Flint slowly pulled away from Brock, his gaze narrowing as he stepped forward, his kids safely behind him. "I've been forced away from home for far too long."
"Well, it makes things easier on my end," the chief sneered. "Flint Harrison– your role as Gym Leader is officially revoked. I declare you incapable of finding a replacement, and as such one will be decided to fill your place."
"And on what grounds are you revoking my status?" Flint asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Abandoning your post–"
"I had a substitute gym leader in my place."
"Not answering calls–"
"It's not illegal to leave my phone at home."
"And I find that you are emotionally and mentally incapable of holding such a position," the chief continued, raising his voice so he wouldn't be cut off again. "You are delusional, Flint Harrison. Your soulmate is dead, and you cannot accept that."
"Where's your proof?" Flint asked, crossing his arms.
"Excuse me?"
"Evidence, officer," he growled. "You do not see through my eyes, and I do not believe you have the legal certifications to evaluate one's soulmate status. You have not had anyone evaluate me, in fact– when it was in your power to order such a check up. You have no ground to stand on."
The chief scowled. "I wouldn't push yourself Flint, honestly I feel you should be arrested, for child abandonment–"
"Excuse me?!" Rose snapped, stepping forward. "How dare you! Flint made arrangements for his children's care! I moved down here specifically to watch over them, don't you dare–!"
"Mom," Flint said, voice softening. "It's okay–"
"No! I'm not going to stand here and let this man–"
"Stay out of this, lady," the chief snapped. "If you asked me you're unfit to care for children, you could barely walk over here–"
"Alright," a deep voice grumbled, cutting off the conversation as a towering figure strolled forward. "I've seen enough– and it's just as bad here as you described, Flint."
Murmurs instantly burst out from the crowd as the man came forward– tall and towering, with rippling muscles across his entire form. His arms were crossed as he glowered down at the officer, who stepped back with a look of shock on his face. Serena stared at the man, who seemed familiar, but she couldn't place him in the moment.
"No way!" One of the racers near her muttered.
"That's Bruno of the Elite Four!" Another cried, and Serena realized why he looked familiar.
Kanto wasn't her home region, and thus she didn't have their Elite Four memorized, but she had heard of the man before. He looked different, not dressed for martial arts as he often appeared when on TV, but in no way did that make him not look intimidating. He was scowling down at the chief, who took a moment to compose himself.
"Bruno," he greeted. "What honor do we have of one of the Elites in our little city?"
"Came out here at the request of one of the league's gym leaders," he said, speaking in a low and deep tone. Everyone was silent, leaning forward to listen. "Said that there was corruption in his city, and was chased right out of his home because of it. And I must say, things are worse here than I thought."
The chief stood up straight. "Bruno, sir, I am afraid that Mr. Harrison here hasn't been the same since his soulmate has passed. He has been causing a lot of trouble, and I have been doing my best–"
"Lola Harrison is alive!" Bruno snarled– and Serena couldn't help but jump back at the sudden bellow. "The woman is alive and missing– and you have done absolutely nothing to find her! Been abusing your power, and failing the citizens of the city you're supposed to be protecting!"
"Lola is–"
"Alive!" Bruno roared– and this time Serena wasn't the only one who jumped. "And I have records to back it up, unlike your claims! Flint Harrison has been evaluated at my suggestion and has officially been proven to be seeing in color– meaning his soulmate is alive!"
"I told you!" Suzie cried, her small voice carrying out through the stunned silence– and she stuck her tongue out at the officer. "I told you Mama was alive, meanie pants, I told you!"
"I don't know what's going on here," Bruno growled. "But consider yourself on probation, officer– orders of the League. I'm going to have an investigation launched to find out just what exactly is going on around here, and to make sure Lola Harrison is found."
"You're going to find Mama?" Billy asked, looking up at Bruno hopefully.
"Mama's coming home too!" Tilly said in excitement. "Daddy's home and Mama's coming home!"
At that point, the silence didn't stay for long. People were talking, talking and staring, confusion and murmurs in the air. Serena didn't want to stay and listen, however, and so she flung herself off of Isla, recalling the Pokemon to a Pokeball, before making her way forward. She slipped under the fence and made her way towards the Harrisons– who had been joined by Ash and Misty.
Bruno's eyes flashed towards Serena as she approached, and she froze up as the man glowered down at her, but Brock came to her rescue, stepping forward and smiling at her. Upon seeing she was a friend Bruno's gaze softened, and his gaze returned to the police officer, leading him away from the Harrison family.
"Hello there," Flint said, his eyes turning towards Serena, who swallowed.
"Um– hello," she said, swallowing. "It's nice to meet you, sir– your family has been very kind to us."
"I'm assuming those two are your friends?" He said, nodding towards Ash and Misty.
"Yes, they, um, rescued me from Mt. Moon," she paused, wanting to tell the man that the officer hadn't done a thing for her. That her attack had been brushed aside, but at the same time she didn't. She wanted him to know that he wasn't the only one who had been affected by the corrupt man, but what she had gone through was nothing compared to his story.
"Fenna!" Flambé cried, weaving between the feet of everyone, and crashing into Serena's arms. She held the Pokemon close, Ash following after the Fennekin, grinning at Serena.
"Wasn't that awesome!" He said, almost trembling with excitement. "Bruno himself! Showing up and just bam! Just shut him down before he could spew anymore lies and excuses!"
Houndour let out a loud bark.
"Thank goodness he showed up," Serena whispered, looking up at Ash. "That man, that horrible man... he tried to– he tried to–"
She fell quiet as a pair of arms wrapped around her, and she was startled as Ash brought her into a hug. She stared up at him as he smiled down warmly at her. "It doesn't matter what he tried to do– because it's over now. Everything is okay."
"I– I–" Serena said, but she didn't know how to reply– but she knew why she was so emotional. What had happened was horrible, what the Harrisons had gone through had been terrible, and it made her angry to think about, but there was a personal sting in what happened.
It didn't help when Brock stepped towards his Father, Misty's hand in his. Flint's gaze flickered between the two of them, realization in his eyes before they even said a word.
"Hey, Dad, I'd like you to meet someone," Brock said softly, smiling. "This is Misty Waterflower– my soulmate."
And Flint smiled, parent beaming at their child– no doubt, no hesitation– nothing but pride and pure happiness. Flint let out a loud laugh, holding out his hand, and when Misty went to shake it he pulled her into a hug.
"Welcome to the family, Misty!" He boomed cheerfully. "Welcome."
Acceptance, no doubt, no hesitation.
"Serena?" Ash whispered in worry.
"I–" She whispered. "I just–" But no words could describe how she felt. "I'm just glad that everything worked out."
Ash looked at her, and for a moment Serena was afraid that he saw through her lie, that he saw the sting of hurt and jealousy she was trying to hide– but then a smile spread across his face, his golden brown eyes gleaming. "I know– isn't it awesome?"
"Yeah," she whispered quietly. "It is."