Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of the Hoenn league battles. These battles are smaller, being singular double battles than the three-v-three matches used in the Silver conference. I also want to say a lot of these battles were written pre-Scarlet & violet, so moves and such were based on the gen eight learn sets or mechanics. We also get to explore one of the arcs established last chapter. I'm trying a different method for splitting the arcs up during the league to limit the amount of POV's in each chapter. I'm aiming for two per chapter but sometimes it might get increased. Let me know what you think of it. This time we'll be looking at Max mostly and a little Sakura. We also get a little amour sprinkled and outside of competing in the league, Ash and Serena won't have massive arcs during the tournament. They'll help the others, but I felt this was more of the time to really dive into the others as we watch Ash compete. Expect to see some growth for May, Max, some of the rivals and maybe a little Brock. Don't forget to vote in the poll, it'll change with the next chapter and with that, let's begin...
Chapter Ninety: Emerald Conference - Preliminaries P I
Ash smiled as his arms rubbed up and down Serena's back. Their lips were occupied with each other as he stared into her sparkling sapphire eyes. He was lying on his back on the bed with her lying on top. Her own hands lightly running over his chest, shoulders and back. Chuckling inwardly, they pulled back for a need of air, resting their foreheads against each other, rubbing noses together.
"We really need to get going," she whispered, "we need to get breakfast and-"
"I don't wanna," he mumbled, pecking her lips. Placing a hand on her waist, he rolled them over so her head hit the pillow and he straddled on top, "can't we just stay here until my battle?"
"Who are you-" Her words were interrupted by another kiss. "-and what have you done with Ash Ketchum?"
"Huh?" He nuzzled his head against her's, pecking her cheek before nibbling on her ear.
"Y-you always want food," she giggled, "s-stop that tickles."
"We can order room service," he suggested, "I just wanna spend more time with you."
"We've spent the entire journey together," she grumbled, "and the others are waiting. Now are you gonna get up or do I need to levitate you downstairs?"
"Levitate?" He smirked.
"No, not like flying," she replied, "it'll barely be an inch off the ground... and since when have you been this affectionate?"
"Guess you've rubbed off on me," he whispered, nuzzling his head into the crook of her neck, "but when on the road we had to get to the next place... and then in centres you'd be more affectionate since we'd be stationary for a bit-"
"And we'd have a proper bed," she added, "camping out is fun and all but-"
"Yeah, that too." He kissed her once more. "So, I guess I never needed to show it."
"Tell you what," she whispered, her finger trailing along his back sending a shiver down his spine, "your battle is this afternoon. Do well and I'll show you a really affectionate time tonight... when we have all the time in the world."
"S-Serena." he gasped. Feeling her fingers drag along his back in a slow and tempting manner. "W-what are you-"
"Let's call it... motivation," she whispered the last word, emphasising her point with a wink.
He took a deep breath with his eyes locked into her's. His heart thumbed against his chest as he felt his cheeks heat up. Seeing her giggle, she pushed up and pecked his lips, easily pushing him over so she ended up on top of him, a smirk spread across her lips.
"But first we need to get going," she whispered. Kissing his bottom lip, she rolled it between her two into her mouth.
She let him go and stood up, walking over to the attached bathroom. A pile of clothes levitating next to her. He couldn't help but notice the extra emphasis she put into her hips as she walked. Unable to turn away until the door to the other room shut and locked.
Lying back into the bed, he ran his hand down his face. Feeling the cool air finally calm his presumably red cheeks, he couldn't help but smile. She might be a little minx when they're alone, but he couldn't deny he loved that side of her. Sure, the whole debacle with Manaphy created some tension when they tried to become affectionate but now, they're passed it. With a deep breath, he sat back up and moved to grab his clean clothes. It might seem weird, but it felt like this league came around in no-time... maybe it's because of how many times he's already competed, he couldn't be sure.
Max smiled as he sat down in the seat of the stadium. Ash, Serena, and May sat behind him on the row above and Brock was next to him. Taking out his Pokéballs, he let out his team. Geico sat on the back of his seat while Ralts sat nicely on his lap. Shade and Ozone were floating around.
"Careful you two," he called out, "we're here to watch the battle so either settle down or you can wait in your Pokéballs."
His two floating Pokémon settled down over each of his arm rests. Glancing between all his team, he couldn't help but beam. He always knew he loved Pokémon but having his own team is something else entirely. He felt his cheeks push his glasses up thanks to the wide smile.
"I bet your excited to watch the league in the stadium." Brock smiled. "Right Max?"
"Uh huh!" He nodded, unable to tear his eyes away from the field.
"Any reason all the preliminary matches are double battles?" Ash asked, "Hoenn seems to have a bigger focus on them than either Kanto or Johto."
"It's because Hoenn is where double battles originated!" He replied, "so to honour their start, the Emerald conference always incorporates them. As well as one of the gyms always providing double battles for their unique challenge. Sometimes more than one, dad said he's offered it to challengers before too."
His attention was drawn straight back down to the field. A small figure walked out and the screens surrounding the edge of the field lit up, each with different shots of the field, allowing him to better make out the referee for the battle ahead.
"Alright folks, here is the first battle of this year's Emerald conference! And opening up the preliminaries are two favourites to win this year's competition!" The announcer's voice echoed around the stadium. "On the left, we have Tyson Tetsuya from Mauville City and on the right and on the right, we have Katie Kaede from Lilycove City! So, let's give them both a Silver conference welcome as they make their way out onto the field."
His eyes were locked down on the field as he watched the two older trainers walk out onto the field. A referee stood in the centre as he took in both appearances. Katie looked confident as ever with a glare and crossed arms... while her opponent seemed to be a sort of cowboy given his get up. His eyes cast over the middle screen which showed the two trainer's face shots appearing, with two smaller circles below them.
"Despite being a stepchild of the famous Winstrate family, she has proven herself to be just as tough of the renowned family making it to the final in her first league two years ago in Kanto's Indigo league and winning the following year in Sinnoh's Navy league!" The announcer explained, "while Tyson won the previous Emerald conference last year in this very stadium! So, both trainers have a strong standing to make it far in this tournament! Let's pass it over to our referee for this match to find out how the format for our preliminaries!"
"This will be a double battle between our two competitors, who can both choose two Pokémon. Each trainer has registrared their teams beforehand and neither side can substitute! Without a time, limit, the victor will be decided by the competitor who causes their opponents to be unable to battle!" the ref explained, "both sides shall reveal their Pokémon before we officially start!"
"Meowth & Metagross!" Tyson shouted, tossing one Pokéball into the air, "battle time!"
In a flash of light, the fully evolved steel psychic type materialised on the field. He couldn't stop his lips from grinning as his heart thumped against his chest, a shadow blurred from the corridor which Tyson walked from and a second Pokémon lept up, landing on top of his pseudo legendary. The feline was dressed in some more cowboy attire, similar to the trainer. Blinking in surprise, he pulled out his Pokédex to scan the new Pokémon:
Meowth, The Scratch Cat Pokémon. Kantonian form. Meowth withdraws its sharp claws into its paws to slinky sneak about without making any incriminating footsteps. For some reason, this Pokémon loves shiny coins that glitter with light
"Won't those clothes hinder Meowth in battle?" He muttered, putting the device away.
"Maybe or maybe, they serve some other purpose," Brock replied, "we'll just need to wait and see."
His attention was drawn back to the field as two more Pokémon materialised on the field. One of them he recognized as one of Brock's Pokémon, being a Ninetales, even if his is currently back in Pewter with his family. While the other one, he couldn't quite place.
Floating above the pure fire type was a purple, ghostly Pokémon which had a round head with elaborated tufts resembling a witch's hat. The tips of the tufts were paler than the rest of the body. She had a thin, red-mouth that resembled the letter 'w'. Below her head was a short, thorax-like lump which connected to her body. Three elliptical red spheres surrounded the upper portion of her body. There were extensions on the sides of the lower body with the foremost ones being tattered compared to the others. Giving the second Pokémon an appearance of wearing some sort of cloak. He scanned with his Pokédex:
Mismagius, The Magical Pokémon. The final evolved form of Misdreavus. Mismagius have been known to cast spells to make people fall in love, so some people search for this Pokémon as if their life depended on it
He couldn't help but shrink in his seat at the description. With his own issues as of late figuring out his own feelings, seeing that sort of Pokédex entry wasn't exactly reassuring. If Pokémon could cast such spells over them, how could he ever be certain of his own?
"Metagross and Meowth verses Ninetales and Mismagius," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Katie verses Tyson: Preliminary round one
Max couldn't tear his eyes off the field. A wide grin consuming his lips as his arms tightened around Ralts. The normal cat took off over the field, running on his hind legs with the two claws extended to the side. Seeming to focus on the fire type from Katie's side.
Ninetales took off back across the field, seeming to lead the scratch cat further into her side of the field. Pouncing around in a dance-like taunt.
A blue fire ball formed at her mouth and launched towards the normal type. Leaping forward, he slashed through the will-o-wisp, making it harmless.
With a stream of flames, a wall of fire cut the two Pokémon off from the rest of the field. Creating a circle colosseum like arena for them to battle.
The ghost type's eyes glew red with ESP and grabbed some of the fire off the wall. Floating towards Tyson's pseudo legendary, the flames whipped around in rings around her. Shooting the flames down on the steel psychic type, the pseudo disappeared before impact.
Reappearing in front of the magical Pokémon, the front iron legs punched forward. Shimmering with a silver sheen, they hit the ghost type.
Rapidly punching forward, they must've got ten good hits in with bullet punch's first second. Knocking Mismagius back through the air.
In the blink of an eye, the steel psychic emerged right before and delivered one more to her back. Knocking the ghost down to the ground.
Letting out an eerie cry, the ghost types eyes burst with psychic energy once more. The supercomputer came crashing down like a ton of bricks but a wall of fire, curtsy of the other battle going on blocked the impact. Setting the pseudo legendary alight as their opponent disappeared.
Emerging above the fireball, which was Metagross, purple ghost type energy floated off the magical Pokémon. Striking the steel psychic type head-on.
Glancing back up to the screen over the field, he got a better view of Meowth and Ninetales. The two were walking around in a circle with the normal type every so often leaping to try and take the fox Pokémon out. Although he noticed as he landed on one knee, the scratch cat looked exhausted already.
"I get it!" Brock announced. "The old hit and run tactic."
"What's the hit and run tactic?" May asked as he turned to look at the oldest member of their group with her.
"Katie's using it right now with Ninetales." He smiled. "She's moving out when the opponent comes into attack and then moving in when he tires out. With the firewall added heat exhaustion to give her the edge. While one on one it would be difficult to know which would hold the advantage between these two, she is using these tactics to wear Meowth down without much fall back on her own team. Wearing him down."
Glancing back up to the screen, he gasped seeing the scratch cat Pokémon on one knee. Panting heavily, with rivers of sweat visible on his face.
"Now Ninetales, let's finish it!" She commanded.
The pure fire type's eyes burst open with blue psychic energy. A shield seemed to engulf her body before expanding outwards.
Blowing the normal type through the flames it also engulfed the fire wall. Leaving both Pokémon out in the open but his eyes widened at the sight.
Meowth flew headfirst into one of Metagross' bullet punches as the pseudo halted the attack. Tyson's scratch cat landed face down on the field.
"Meowth is unable to battle." The ref declared. A psychic outline curtsy of Metagross lifted the fallen Pokémon up and levitated him over to his trainer. Cradling the normal type, both of Katie's Pokémon regrouped on her side of the field as he carefully laid the normal type down. "Resume the battle!"
Without hesitation, the pure fire type charged forward. Streams of flames shot out, creating another colosseum of heat as Mismagius floated up and away.
Letting out a loud cry, the steel psychic type slammed the iron legs down. Massive rocks launched out of the ground and over the flames.
Blue balls of fire hit the face directly and the entire body burst alight. Ninetales fell back, retreating onto one of the rocks as Mismagius lowered herself in.
With psychic red eyes, flames from the other side of the rocks flew towards her. Orbiting around she charged in, whipping her flames around like a circus performer. Purple ghost energy radiated out, filling the self-made prison with Metagross not having an escape.
The iron legs crossed over the head as Tyson's remaining Pokémon tried to fly up. A blast of fire struck his head before clearing one of their own rocks.
As their opponent crashed back down, Ninetales morphed her move into a flamethrower. Igniting the fire wall on the side of the rock prison.
"This would work as a sort of contest battle." May mused. "At least on Katie's part. It's a really colourful design with purple, red and orange."
He glanced back to look at her for a brief second but as he tried to turn back to the field, Serena started talking. Forcing his attention once more.
"Maybe but it doesn't exactly show off her Pokémon since they are in the display." Serena nodded. "I think this is more her chance to overwhelm her opponent. I think Tyson would have the strength advantage if they were to go one-on-one even without the typing but she's not letting up, switching between her two Pokémon so Metagross doesn't get a moments break. She's very tactical, eliminating the weaker member of her opponent first to pull this off."
A loud explosion banged, and he shot back around. His eyes were almost blinded by the display.
Fire erupted out of the rocky prison like some sort of volcano with purple tints in the warm colours. As everything fade, he first noticed both of Katie's team.
They returned to her side, with Mismagius floating by her head and Ninetales sat in front of her. With arms crossed, her lips flicked up in a smirk.
The rest of the field cleared, revealing the rocks broken down in into rubble. A charred and soot-covered Metagross planted in the field. Swirls replaced the eyes as the pseudo laid unmoving. Gasping at his breath, he fell back into his seat, unable to process what just happened.
"Both of Tyson's Pokémon have been deemed unable to continue," the ref declared, "meaning Katie shall be moving on to the next round in the preliminaries!"
Max glanced around as they walked out of the stadium, Brock and May were ahead discussing a possible restaurant before Ash gets his own battle. Speaking of the raven-haired boy, he was slightly behind with Serena dangling off his arm. Casting his eyes downward, he chewed away on his inner cheek. Shuffling his feet on the spot, he glanced over and took a deep breath. Forcing his feet to move forward, he ended up just in front of the couple.
"H-hey Ash," he stuttered, grabbing both of their attention. His cheek burnt as the words formed in his mouth, "c-can I talk to you for a minute?"
"Huh?" He blinked before a smile rested on his face. "Sure Max, what's up?"
He caught the glance of Serena whispering something to him before letting go and running over to their other friends. With a deep breath he cast a glance back at the raven-haired boy. His eyes relaxed with a soft smile accompanying them. Swallowing hard, he glanced around until he saw a dark corridor off from the main crowd. Locking eyes with the older trainer, he gestured over to it with his head and the duo set off.
"So Max," Ash greeted as they arrived in the isolated. "What did ya wanna talk about?"
"I erm, I just wanted to ask," he stuttered, "h-how did you know that you liked Serena?"
"I don't just like Serena, Max, I love her." He squatted down so they were eye level. "What's this really about?"
"Well um I..." He stuttered. "Say I think I like someone b-but I don't know. How can I be sure or-"
"You can only be sure once you've taken the leap," he replied, "when Serena and I started dating I was nervous and didn't really know what I was doing. But she knew that which took a lot of pressure off. Just be up front with your thoughts, no-matter how mumbled they seem to be and if this person is somewhere similar then you can try to work it out. No point in stressing if they aren't on the same page, it won't work unless your both into it."
"Thanks Ash," he sighed, relaxing in place.
"You gonna tell me who this mystery girl is?" he asked, smirking, "do I or the others know her?"
"N-no," he stuttered, feeling his cheeks heat up as he stumbled back to the main lobby.
"I'll take that as a yes, but you don't wanna say," he lightly chuckled, standing up and following, "just... good luck. I hope it all works out because having your better half makes the world seem that little bit brighter. If you wanna have some time alone to think... or maybe find her then I'll cover with the others."
Unable to say anything, he gave a small nod. The raven-hair boy took off and quickly caught back up with the others. Turning around, he made his way off in a separate direction. Letting out a low breath, he continued out of the building until finding himself at a grassy field. Several venders lined the streets around and dozens of people and Pokémon filled the gaps.
Taking a seat on the grass, he released his team of four. The two fliers started up a game of tag but a cry from Geico drew them back in. He offered a small smile to the pure grass type as a silent thanks. His eyes drifted over the team of four for a brief moment before looking back to the first member.
"Thanks bud." His starter gave a single nod in response. "Now Ralts, could you please set up the mind connection? I kinda want to talk with you guys."
"Of course," there high-pitched voice echoed in his head. It felt a little surreal, feeling the full force of ESP when Serena usually handled linking up. The light chatter of all four Pokémon's voices echoed in his head. "There. Everyone is present and accounted for."
"Hey guys..." He sunk his teeth into his bottom lip. "Erm, so... what did ya'll make of the opening round?"
"It was totally wicked!" Ozone declared. "That girl... Katie! She was like... awesome!"
"It did feel a little one sided," Shade replied, "like... when meowth fell, it was a two-on-one."
"That's because they defeated the other opponent." Ozone retorted. "It would be totally unfair to penalise Katie for that!"
"Why don't you tell us the real reason you wanted to talk?" Ralts asked, drawing the twos attention.
"Huh?" He felt his cheeks heat up. "I-I don't know what you're talking about."
"Our trainer has a crush." Ralts stated plainly to the others. "But he doesn't know whether or not to pursue it. He really wanted to get our opinion but Torchic-ed out at the last second. I don't think it really matters who right now, I just say go for it! No point in wasting time you wouldn't otherwise get!"
"I really don't care." Geico shrugged. "Not to sound mean but... this is your business, not ours. If you wanna go for it, do but I won't lose sleep either way."
"Why would you want to do that now?!" Shade exclaimed. "We're at the league! The league! We've already got so much to do and see and-"
"No, you should totally go for it!" Ozone cut him off. "Why waste such an opportunity?! Worst that could happen is it doesn't work out!"
"You really think our trainer is in love?" Shade asked.
"No... but then again I'm not sure what love even is." She shrugged. "But where's the harm in testing the water?"
Smiling at the group of Pokémon, he felt the blood pump harder through his body. Tightening his fist, he jumped up to his feet. Giving them a quick word of thanks, he recalled each of them. Turning around, he took off into the busy streets of Ever Grande. His Pokémon are right, he might not have it work out with Walley in the end, but his confusion has confirmed he's at least curious. There's only one way for him to get the answers he's looking for.
Serena smiled as she stared up to the screen in the lobby of one of the arenas. Sakura was partaking in her first-round match, using the team of Beautifly and Sableye against her opponent, a similar aged girl with long maroon hair who used an Espeon and Umbreon. Each side had lost one Pokémon already in leaving it as a single battle between the bug flying type and the dark eeveelution.
Floating in the centre of the field, dark green energy radiated with a high-pitched sound. Flapping her wings, she kept the moonlight Pokémon at bay.
Grimacing from the shock, Umbreon stood his ground. Head down with eyes squeezed shut, he tried to withstand the bug buzz.
Using the opening, Beautifly dived down. Landing on the back of the dark type Pokémon. Her long extension stretched out and stabbed the back of his neck.
Bug type energy surrounded both Pokémon as a mystic healing glow enveloped the bugs body. Taking off after twenty-ish seconds, she left the eeveelution collapsed on his side.
"Both of Soleil's Pokémon are unable to battle." The ref declared. "Making the winners who'll move onto the next round Sakura Sayo with her Pokémon!"
Smiling down as the Kimono sister walked over to her opponent, clearly congratulating her on a hard-fought battle. She noticed the fully evolved bug resting peacefully on her head. Hearing the ruckus of footsteps, she turned and made her way into the inner part of the stadium. Wanting to meet up with her friend.
It didn't take long for her to reach the main lobby. Stood against a pillar near the competitor's entrance, she saw a group of young children eagerly awaiting the Kimono sister. Her expression fell slightly at the thought of her being in that position had she completed in the master class. Shaking her head, popularity should not be her main focus right now. She needs to support her friends in their competition and work on making herself stronger.
She watched as the younger girl greeted her fans. Luckily, nearby adults who were presumably the parents made sure to leave before it got awkward. She approached her friend.
"Maybe I should get your autograph." She joked. "How does it feel knowing you've got your own fan club?"
"I like to think the Kimono sisters community as a whole has something to do with it," she smiled. "But if I can inspire even one person then it makes it all worth it."
Rolling her lips into her mouth, she couldn't help but take those words to heart. She tried to ignore her top coordinator status upon moving to Hoenn, but Sakura is using it for good. She might not have competed in showcases but that was the same attitude Lisia had. No doubt she'd make an equally compelling showcase queen.
"So where are we going?" Sakura asked.
"Ya know, I thought we could explore the city maybe do some shopping." She shrugged. "Grab a bite to eat. Ash's battle isn't until this afternoon and he's using right now to plan."
"Sounds good to me." She beamed. "Lead the way."
Walking through the streets of Ever-Grande, the two girls partook in some light conversation, mostly about the opening battles. It didn't take them long to reach the shopping centre which had numerous different shops. Bracing themselves, they made their way into the first of many stores.
"So, what're you looking to get?" Sakura asked.
"I dunno." She shrugged, skimming through the racks of shirts.
She pulled out a white tank top and held it up to her chest. Despite her current shirt showing off her midriff, this one was far more revealing. Her eyes caught the size tag and she instantly put it back. Being two sizes smaller meant the shirt would turn from baggy and open into a tight fit.
"If you're looking to tease Ash." Sakura drew her attention with a mischievous smirk. "Then I think there's another section for swim wear. It might work better."
"I-I'm not-" She took a deep breath and tried to calm her presumed red face down. "-look, what I'm looking for right now are more... workout clothes."
"Workout clothes?" She flicked an eyebrow up.
"Yeah," she replied, turning to look at another rack. "You see, I realised I hadn't kept up with the trainer I started out as and I want to fix that. We haven't really decided where we're heading next, but I know I'll be returning to my battling roots. What about you?"
"Well, after the league I've decided to head over to Unova to compete," she explained, "regardless of my outcome here, I think they need the rekindle between people and legends."
"Hmm." She frowned at name of the region.
"You alright?" she asked.
"Y-yeah, it's just-" She took a deep breath. "-that's where Ash's brother is... he's been refusing his calls a-and looking at the news doesn't help. They each give a different version of facts."
"I can't speak to the build-up, but I know that since the trial most of the major cities have been hit by riots." She frowned. "Brother fighting brother, families torn apart, shops being looted and left to burn. Regardless of what side you're on, it's a horrid situation. That's why I think they need some help from the Kimono sisters."
"So, your plan is to preach?" she asked.
"No." She shook her head. "I've loved competing and still want to. My plan is to study the local legends, like I did here. Then help those I meet on my journey to reconnect with them."
"It won't be easy." She sighed, still thinking of her boyfriend's brother.
"That's what'll make it worth it." She smiled. With a selection of items in her hands, they approached the changing rooms.
Upon entering the changing room, she quickly switched into her chosen workout fit. Posing in front of the mirror, she smiled. Liking the choice of outfit, she started to change back. Holding up her golden shirt to put back on, she paused and looked in the mirror. Eyes widening at the sight.
She hadn't really noticed it before, but it seems her bra wasn't exactly fitting right. She sighed, having known for a while that she'd grown but looking right now, it seemed to be a bigger difference than she thought. She shrugged, deciding to pick up some new ones whilst here.
While it provided a nice distraction, she finished getting her original outfit on and piled up the rest. Leaving the items, she didn't want in the return pile she made her way to the till point where she paid.
"So where next?" Sakura asked. "I'm starving."
"We can grab a bite to eat." She smiled. "What do you want?"
"A good burger," the kimono sister replied, placing a hand on her stomach. She pulled out her Pokegear. Sakura turned her screen, allowing her to read the headline. "I can't comment on the verdict, but I will say that the stuff which came out really didn't help matters."
"You think that he's-"
"I really don't know what to think." She cut her off. "I do know things like this are rarely down to an individual."
Walking into the restaurant, she heard the sizzle of the open grill and accompanying aroma made her stomach growl. It didn't take long for them to be seated and their order taken. The place seemed pretty crowded but not too much, with a sense of everything moving.
"So, what else do you need to get?" she asked. "I'd like to pick up some fabrics from the market. It's time I started working on my next travelling outfit."
"It still amazes me that Kimono sisters make all their own clothes and jewellery," she replied, "but as for your question, Ash and I tend to pick out our travelling stuff together. It's sort of tradition at this point so I only really need to pick up some new undergarments today."
"Oh, so you are getting Ash something for his post battle." She smirked.
"N-no-" she stuttered. "They're not for Ash. He isn't going to see me in them!"
"Whoa, I knew you were close but damn, that'll really motivate him!" Sakura continued. "Or is that your condolence plan in case he loses?!"
"S-Sakura?!" She gasped.
"Haha, sorry. I couldn't resist!" She laughed, nearly falling of her chair. "You just made it too easy."
Frowning at her friends tormenting, it didn't take long for the food to be brought out. They remained mostly silent during the meal but the awkwardness from that interaction also disappeared with it. Settling their bill once done, they set out towards the more traditional market section of the city.
Holding a proper conversation seemed pretty much impossible and they made a quick split to save time. Leaving Sakura at one of the fabric stands in the market square, she quickly made her way into a department store. It didn't take her long to grab some bras of different sizes. While she could ask for a measurement, she didn't particular like the thought and decided to just test for the best fitting. Once happy with the size she'd need, she returned the others and picked up two others in the same size. Quickly and quietly making her way through the checkout, in hopes of minimum interaction.
"Heeeey!" A high-pitched squeal echoed as she stepped back out into the street.
She turned but was unable to properly take in the sight as she found herself wrapped up in a hug. The whirlwind past and as her unknown assailant let go, she studied their appearance. They seemed to be female but with a massive blue hoodie covering their head and black sunglasses helping hid their face.
"Lisia?!" she questioned, piecing it together from little information she had.
"Yeah, its tots me. I'm just wearing this to stop my fans from recognising." She beamed. "I was totally hoping to find you. Knowing that boy of yours was competing made finding you easier than expected. After you didn't make it to the master class, I felt really bad. It wasn't the same without you up there."
"But I didn't earn my three keys-" she was cut off.
"So?" she asked. "If you ask me, three keys or not. I would've totally let you in. It's about letting the region decide whose best for them."
"Thanks..." She sighed. "But I really don't think I would've been much good anyway. Some stuff happened during the disasters and-"
"Oh, baby." She engulfed her in a softer, more meaningful hug. "I know those events were horrid. How anyone could do it is unthinkable to me."
"Anyway, I don't think I was in the right mind set to win..." She uttered. "Much less make it as a showcase queen. Congratulations, though."
"It's thanks to you that I made it," she replied, releasing the show of affection.
"Huh?" she tilted her head to the side. Her brows pulled together as her lips perched.
"After we competed in Rustboro, I realised I needed to up my game." She smiled. "A showcase queen is meant to be the heart of their region. To embody what makes the region great and inspire those around them. To be the light in the darkest times and your performance with Murkrow... It did just that."
She felt her mouth drop slightly at the speech from her friend and rival. It perfectly captures exactly Lisia in a few words. Hoenn, as a region, has really shown harmony and balance between people and Pokémon. Whether in the Rustboro school with numerous Pokémon helping the students learn or the deep forest of Foretree where both work to maintain the tree-top city. Of course, that harmony was what aqua, and magma looked to overturn and flip the scales which is why it was so disastrous but even out of that wreckage, the companionship and teamwork has shone through.
During this little revelation, she realised Lisia was also more prepared for the role. She's always got a wide smile and up-beat attitude. Bringing the best, she can to whoever needs it in her area. Even the tough times, like with May and Drew. She's truly an inspiration for the people of Hoenn.
"I still think the best performer won," she told the turquoise-haired girl, "look. I've gotta find my friend and Ash is about to battle soon but I'd love to see you again before the leagues over. How long are you here?"
"Until after the champions league challenge." She shrugged. "That's going to be my official coronation and my first official performance as showcase queen will be a farewell to the elite four member leaving... along with a hello to their replacement."
"What about the show yesterday?" she asked.
"That was my first performance since the master class, but I don't officially take my title until the start of the season." She shrugged. "And, of course, all regional competitions seasons are dictated by the leagues finish. Signalling the start of the next challenge."
Exchanging numbers and contact info, she parted ways with the energised girl and tried to find Sakura once more. Unfortunately, she couldn't be found amongst the crowd in the market. Seeing the time, she quickly sent her message letting her know she'd return to the stadium to watch Ash's battle and she's sorry they couldn't find each other. With time running out, she slipped her shopping into the bottom of her backpack and took off.
Max stood on the edge of a grassy patch of the park. His eyes locked onto the back of Walley's head. Feeling his heart thump harder at the thought of what he was going to do, his mind flashed back to Rustboro showcase. The sweaty palms and dried throat reminded him of that reaction for the first time. He shook his head and walked forward. Trying his best to remain stood in a solid stance without showing any of the nervous ticks itching under his skin.
"H-hey Walley." He wanted to sound normal, but his voice cracked, and his feet nearly tripped over themselves.
"Hello Max." He stood up. Skitty ran around them as Swablu and Ralts each took up one shoulder. Budew rested softly in his hands "What's up?"
"I erm-" He swallowed hard. "Can we talk? J-just the two of us, I mean."
Giving him a nod, he turned to his Pokémon who quickly made themselves scarce. Taking a seat next to the pale-green haired boy, it felt like an entirely different world formed around them.
"Have you... thought, about what we talked about?" he asked.
"I have." He nodded. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to look into the boy's eyes. "A-and I know I like girls. B-but after our talk, I realised th-that I was feeling the same way when thinking about you. I-I don't know if I am... gay. B-but I'd like to find out."
"Is that a yes?" he asked.
Unable to voice a response, he slowly nodded. Turning his head downward, his cheeks felt like they were on fire. "Y-yeah, but can we take it slow? Like I said, I'm not entirely sure and don't want to rush in, messing everything up."
"Of course." He offered a reassuring smile. "We can go at whatever pace you need."
Releasing a breath, he didn't know he was holding, the two of them relaxed on the grass. No longer an awkward silence surrounded them but more of a comforting one. His Pokémon must've noticed as they returned for the brief explanation of what happened. Thankfully, all four of Walley's team seemed supportive.
"So..." Max muttered. "What do you make of the league so far?"
"It's interesting," he muttered. "I never was big on watching it but being here in person is a different matter entirely. The whole atmosphere almost makes me want to try and give competing a chance. What about you?"
"Oh, I love it!" He beamed. "Watching battles at home is one thing but seeing them in person... you can't beat it! And you should compete, it's so much fun. I can't wait for the chance to be in a league of my own."
"You're really passionate about this sort of thing." Walley smiled. "It's nice... seeing you so excited."
"Hehehe, yeah." He scratched the back of his head with a nervous chuckle. He was sure what else to say. "Hey erm, I'm meant to be meeting up with my friends for Ash's first battle. I-erm. I mean, would you like to watch with us?"
"I'd love to." He stood up. "And we can tell your friends about... us, at the same time."
His throat went dry as the thought entered his mind. Shaking the doubt away, he remembered how his friends responded to Swellow and even Hitmontop. Encouraged by their previous experiences, he found a new sense of determination. Just in time as they reached the seats where Brock, Serena and his sister was sat.
"Hey guys!" He called out, running up to the seats where May, Brock and Serena sat. He turned to gesture to the boy behind. "You remember Walley right?"
"We do." Brock nodded. "How are you keeping?"
"I'm good." He smiled softly. "Thank you, Brock."
"We erm... we actually kinda have-" He found his tongue fighting to produce the right words.
"I think Max is trying to say we have something to tell you all." Walley clarified.
"What is it, Max?" Serena asked. She offered an encouraging smile as he felt his hand sweat. She might've been his first real crush but that clearly never went anywhere. Since that time, she been more of a sister than anything else but different to May... like he could actually talk with her. Maybe it was because of the way she handled his feelings early on, but she just seemed to have a comforting effect, making everything easier.
"Well... you see, Walley and I-" He felt his cheeks heat up at the thought. "-we're... now... boyfriends."
He could've heard a pin drop from their small group as his eyes averted away from them. His throat dried up as he felt each thump from his heart.
"Congratulations," Serena offered a supportive smile.
"Another who beat me to the punch." Brock smirked. "I'm kidding. I'm happy for the both of you."
Feeling a smile grow on his lips, he turned to face May. He frowned seeing her lips slightly pushed together with a slight puff of her cheeks. Her eyebrows flickered downward, leaving rows of wrinkles on her forehead. She must've registered his staring because she broke out into a forced smile adding her own word of congratulations.
The crowd went silent, a glance to the field showed two figures walking out. Realising the battle was about to begin, Max took one of the open seats. His new boyfriend took the one next to him. There wasn't much which stood out about Dominick. He was around Ash's age with moss-green hair. While he wore a pretty bland out of a yellow shirt and blue jeans.
"Now for the first preliminary match of the afternoon set!" The announcer declared. "Our first trainer has been on the road for a few years, but this is his first league appearance! Sources claim he's been training to make a one shot for the championship! It's Dominick from Inua town! His opponent however has made quite a name for himself. Not only winning the orange league but making it to the final in last year's silver conference. It's Ash from Pallet town!"
Both of the boys walked out into the field, meeting in the centre, they seemed in a good mood, sharing a handshake. As the show of sportsmanship ended, each walked over to their respective trainer boxes while the referee took their place on the side of the field.
"This will be a double battle between our two competitors, who can both choose two Pokémon. Each trainer has registrared their teams beforehand and neither side can substitute! Without a time, limit, the victor will be decided by the competitor who causes their opponents to be unable to battle!" the ref explained, "both sides shall reveal their Pokémon before we officially start!"
"Torkoal and Glalie! I choose you!" Ash shouted, tossing his two Pokéballs into the air. Slamming down on the floor, Torkoal let out a cloud of smoke as the ice type floated above him. Both Pokémon stared down, but a creepy smile stretched across the face Pokémon.
"Why would he pick those two to start off?" Walley asked.
"These matches are likely to be the easiest ones Ash will face," Brock replied, "I bet he picked Glalie first just because of the short time they've had together and wanting to give him a good shot. Torkoal was just a logical partner to be paired with him."
"Right." Serena nodded. "He's wise and mannered, compared to the more child-like Glalie. Along with his more defensive and reactive style being a nice counter. Imagine if he used Duskull, another floating and long ranged fighter. It would be pretty easy to counter."
"Plus, their types are complete opposite so it should work," Max added. A light flashed to the side, and he noticed Serena's Froslass materialising beside her. He was surprised by the mini-Glalie flags which she held in hand, swirling them around as a show of support.
"And Ketchum has gone with a song of ice and fire!" The announcer declared. "But who has Dominick decided to use against them?!"
"Swalot and Tropius!" the moss-green haired boy declared with a spin, sending both Pokéball's out. Red lights shot out, materialising the two Pokémon onto the field. The first of which he recognized from when they met up with Gary and Leaf, thanks to the latter having one herself.
"Those two sure look powerful," May muttered, scanning the grass flying type with her Pokédex:
Tropius, The fruit Pokémon. Tropius can fly through the air by flapping the leaves on its back. It grows stronger in bright sunlight which allows it to grow tasty fruit on their body. The fruit that grows around its neck is sweet and popular with children.
Turning away from his sister's device, he squinted down to study the second opponent. While certain he's seen one before, the precise details weren't coming to mind. A tall, purple, amorphous Pokémon with red, beady eyes and yellow whiskers stood next to the fruit partner. While shorter than the grass flying type, it easily beat both of Ash's Pokémon in size. He opened his mouth wide, with some sort of yawn... maybe? But that only lasted a few seconds before the lips returned to a puckered state. The hands each had three fingers. A single row of black rhombi running across the midsection. He pulled out his own Pokédex:
Swalot, The poison bag Pokémon. The final evolved form of Gulpin. Able to expand and contract the body, their's no gap too small for a Swalot to squeeze through. With potent stomach acids, this Pokémon is capable of digesting anything which can also help power the toxins within their body
"Man, that might be tough for Ash to deal with," he muttered, putting the device away.
"I wouldn't be so sure," Serena smirked.
"How come?" Walley asked.
"Ash has a similar species of Pokémon back in Pallet and knows him quite well," Brock answered. "After all the experience he's had with his Pokémon, I doubt this Swalot will bring much of any surprise to him."
"You mean his Muk, right?" he beamed.
"Right!" Brock nodded. "But also, his Snorlax. Being a big eater and large bulky fighter, Swalot seems to be the combination of the two. At least right now."
Seeing the four Pokémon all take up their spots, Max felt his heart thump against his chest. A soft brush on his hand drew his attention, noticing Walley lightly inviting him to sit with them intwined. Taking up the offer, he felt his cheeks burn but shook the thought away. He turned back down to the field.
"Torkoal and Glalie verses Swalot and Tropius." The ref declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Dominick: Preliminary round one
Ash kept his eyes locked on the grass flying type as their leaf wings started flapping. A gust of wind blew past his two Pokémon. Torkoal hung tough and while Glalie tried, his lack of grip meant he was pushed back. The large opponent took off over the field.
His eyes locked with his pure ice type, who gave a cheesy grin. Answering his unasked question, he gave a small nod and his own dimpled smile.
Glalie's expression widened, and he spun around. Charging high into the air at a much quicker rate than their opponent.
A purple gas expelled out of Swalot's mouth, expanding over the plain field. Causing the pure poison type to disappear from sight.
His fire type withdrew into his shell. Spinning around, he launched off into the toxic mist. The wind swirled around, blowing the fumes safely away.
Hitting Swalot's body, the coal Pokémon went flying backwards. Letting out a loud cry, seismic tremors echoed out of the poison bag Pokémon.
The pure fire type emerged from his flying shell, slamming down hard onto the field. His own seismic tremors acting like a shield from the earthquake.
"Torkoal!" He called out. "I'm a little concerned about Glalie! Mind handling this whilst I look out for him?"
His response was a simple nod of the head. He caught sight of his opposing trainer, who frowned with a twitching eyebrow. He turned his attention upwards.
Squinting, he saw his pure ice type zooming around the fruit Pokémon. A light blue tint of icy wind struck the grass flying type as they struggled to keep up.
Looking down from directly above, his face Pokémon fired an ice beam down. Their airborne opponent veered to the side, narrowly avoiding the attack.
It shot down onto Torkoal and he had a split second to take in the sight. Swalot had a sphere of water forming in front of his mouth. A shimmering silver colour shone over the shell of his fire type. The ice redirected off and fired over the field, striking the forming water pulse.
Bursting it open, it struck the back of the poison types throat. As the beam stopped, Torkoal remerged and stood opposing the poison bag Pokémon.
Swalot let out an anger-filled cry, storming forward with haste. An orangey-brown outline of fighting type energy surrounded him.
His pure fire type wasted no time in withdrawing. Taking the blow and being knocked back, he stood once more, hardly affected by the rock smash.
With a loud cry, the poison type opened his wide. Blobs of purple sludge shot out, arching over the field, splattering the ground around his coal Pokémon.
Taking a deep breath, he shot out a stream of flames. It shot straight into the mouth, igniting the upcoming gunk shots.
A massive explosion erupted, blowing the pure poison type back. Landing on his back, smoke exhaled from his mouth as he laid unmoving.
"Swalot is unable to battle!" the ref declared. "The match shall continue!"
Smiling as his coal Pokémon walked away from the reminiscence of the gunk shot. "Way to go! We just need one more to move on!"
"Should I take that to me you wish for me to intervene into Glalie's match?" he asked. "From this distance I could shoot them down... unfortunately, I'm unable to ensure Glalie won't get caught in the blast."
"Thanks, but no thanks." He shook his head. "I kinda want to see how Glalie handles this. Just be ready to step in, alright?"
"I shall prep myself." He nodded, walking closer to Ash himself with his red-hexagons on his shell glowing brightly.
"Why you-" Dominick growled, stomping his foot down. "Tropius! We need to finish this now!"
A loud cry echoed as a cool mist covered the aerial battle from view. A white-black blur shot down with numerous sharp leaves with a multicoloured outline chasing him. Losing speed as he turned horizontal to the ground, the magical leaves caught up, throwing Glalie off as he spun through the air.
Tropius shot down with an orangey-brown outline. Slamming down on his ice type, they crashed into the, leaving a seismic shockwave on the floor.
Flying back to his half of the field, solar energy gathered around his body. With a mystic glow covering the large fruit Pokémon.
"Torkoal!" He hollered.
As the solar beam shot out of Tropius' mouth, his fire type launched his own. Creating a barrier over the ice type, it blocked the opposing grass beam.
Glalie pushed himself and shot out from beneath both beams. Running across the field, he zoomed up, gaining height over the two other Pokémon.
Both of the beams stopped as Torkoal took up his side stop once more. He watched as the leaf-wings began flapping. A smirk formed on his face.
"Icy wind onto the back!" He shouted.
Stopping overhead, Glalie let out a strong blast of cool air. Hitting the fruit Pokémon's back, they crashed back down with ice forming around the wings.
Both opponents growled in anger. A dark blue outline of dragon type energy surround the grass flying type. Charging forward across the ground, he seemed to be aiming straight for Torkoal, who moved further to the side. Presumably to move Ash out of the target zone.
"Rapid Spin!" Glalie instructed.
Withdrawing into his shell, the fire type started spinning, charging headfirst. Clipping the first leg, he bounced underneath Tropius.
Stumbling over as the coal Pokémon spun out behind, Glalie hovered overhead. A ball of ice formed between his two horns. Shooting out an ice beam, it struck the fully evolved Pokémon's stomach. Blowing them across the field, they crashed into the side of the stadium, slumping down with a thud.
"Both of Dominick's Pokémon are unable to battle." The ref declared. "Making the winners who'll move onto the next round Ash Ketchum with his Pokémon!"
Ash grinned widely as they approached the room, hand in hand. Not only pumped from the match but his mind replaying their moment this morning. Upon reaching the door, they entered, and he found his back pressed against the door, a wave of ESP preventing him from moving as she stood tentatively close.
"I assume you remember the promise from this morning," she whispered to which he nodded, "hmm. Then how about you make everything ready, and I'll be right with you."
He felt his cheeks heat up as she disappeared into the on-suite bathroom. Her ESP only letting him go once she disappeared behind the door.
Scrambling across the room, he slung their stuff to the side and quickly changed into his nightwear. Feeling the energy surge throughout his body, he started fixing the covers on their bed, as if to make it perfect. Only letting up when he heard the door open, causing him to look in her direction.
His eyes widened and mouth went dry at the sight. He tried to say something... anything... but only coughed on the dry wheezing air.
"What'cha think?" she asked, one of her arms stretched up the doorframe. Giving him chance to take in her outfit.
Her top was bright pink and hugged her chest nicely but left her arms, stomach, and neck bare. He recognized it as a sports bra and while she mentioned wanting to try one, he never knew she actually got one. While she wore black workout-shorts which hugged her waist down to mid of her top thigh. A couple pink stripes down either side. A smirk spread on her face as she started walking closer, one of her long legs in front of the other.
"I needed some new workout clothes and settled on these," she whispered, stopping right in front of him. Twisting her body around with her hands on her hips wasn't helping him currently as his mouth dried out. "I thought you might like them. Tell me what'cha think."
"I... erm..." He tried to complete a single sentence but to no-avail. His eyes just continued to flutter, taking in her appearance.
"You know... I should really check they're... flexible-" She dropped down onto the floor, extending her legs out to either side. Extending her arms, she reached over and slowly grabbed her pointed toes before doing the same with the other leg. He felt his heart thump harder as he tried to figure out if she was just stretching like before a workout or trying to make him worked up. She glanced up with big, wide eyes. "-I hope you're ready for your reward."
Hearing her whisper, the last word caused his heart to skip a beat. Unable to hold back, he threw himself forward, but he barely reached her.
A psychic wave hit him and knocked him back, falling onto the single bed. He barely had chance to glance in her direction as she levitated across the room and landed over him, straddling his body. Her hands crept under his shirt, running her hand up and down his stomach and chest.
Getting the hint, he pulled it up and tossed his shirt off to the side. As his eyes landed on Serena as she had the table alarm in hands. "Now Ashy. It's just passed three and we told the others we'd meet up for dinner at six. So, if I set the alarm for half five, we'll get just over two hours together. Okay?"
"Y-yeah," he nodded with his mouth slightly open. His head nodded as his bottom lip trembled in excitement.
Giggling cutely, she held a handout and a lip balm landed inside. As she pucked her lips and slowly applied the gloss, his eyes darted down to appreciate her outfit even more. While it didn't really show more than her regular travelling outfit for Hoenn... he couldn't deny the temptation given off by them.
"Wh-which flavour gloss is it?" His eyes struggled back up to her face. She giggled once more, using her ESP to send the gloss back across the room.
She leaned down and gently ran her torso against his. Their faces barely an inch apart as their noses rubbed together. "You'll just need to test and guess."
Unable to contain himself any longer given her flirtatious tone, he wrapped his arms around her back and pulled her down into the embrace. Their lips connected and he rolled to the side, causing her to land on the bed beside him. Her excited giggles encouraging him to continue the show of affection.
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...