Author's Note:
Here it is, the final showcase for Hoenn. Now I am going to do something I normally don't do this but I'm saving the majority of this author's note for the end of the chapter. You'll understand why after reading the chapter. Yes, I brought in a character of the day for this chapter because they have a food connection... take this as confirmation that I won't be doing their episode in the respective arc. For now, don't forget to vote in your poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Seventy-Eight: Sootopolis Showcase: Because of You
Serena took a deep breath, the stomach-growling scent of freshly baked goods filled her airways as she took in the sight in front of her. She just finished washing the equipment in sink as Delphox levitated the tray of food out of the over.
Nurse Joy was more than happy to let them practise in the centre's kitchen, provided they cleaned up after themselves and that's exactly what she's been doing. Sometimes other performers joined them in practising, even Shauna on a few occasions. Happy with the end result, her starter used a light wave of ESP to lift them into the yellow-knitted box she uses to carry the goods. While she hasn't done much baking since Brock started teaching her to cook, this has really brought back memories and she plans on baking a lot more in the future. Not to mention, Ash has been appreciating the treats as they brainstormed the final recipe they'd be making.
"You ready for tomorrow?" she asked the fire-fox through a mental connection.
"Of course." She smiled. "Are you? What about the boys your planning on performing with?"
"We've been working just as hard on that performance as well," she replied, picking up the treat box. "Just you wait, by this time tomorrow, we'll be on our way to the master class."
Her starter offered a soft smile and gave a serious nod in agreement. "And I'll be right beside you throughout."
"Thanks, Delphox," she replied, reaching down to her belt to take off a Pokéball, "now rest up. We've got a big day tomorrow and need to be in top form."
Recalling the fox Pokémon, she attached it back onto her belt and turned to walk out of the kitchen. Stopping at the doorway, she looked back to check she hadn't left anything behind. Happy she hadn't, she flicked the light switch and made her way through the centre. It was pretty quiet; a couple trainers were in the lobby and she past a handful of Chansey's. The night-shift Chimecho was even in Nurse Joy's place, so she guessed she was out for the night. It didn't take her too long to make her way back to the room. Using a little ESP, she mentally brought the key-card out of her pocket and opened the door.
Upon entering the room, she shares with Ash, she quirked an eyebrow up. The raven-haired boy was sat on the armchair, wrapped up in a blanket with his hands grasping a clearly hot drink. Probably hot chocolate if she knows her boyfriend. His face seemed a little blue as he shivered on the spot.
Moving closer into the room, she found Snorunt spread out on the bed. Fast asleep with a snooze bubble raising and lowering with his snores.
"Should I take it your training went well?" she asked, stopping just in front of him, crouching down to stare into his eyes. "What happened?"
"S-Snorunt and Lapras were working on ice beam." He stuttered. "I took Sw-Swellow's advice. Tried to taunt him i-into pushing it further."
"Oh dear."
"H-he got angry and actually fired off a proper ice beam." He shivered. "I-I just happened to be in the way at the time."
"Hehehe, well at least he's improving," she giggled, grasping his hands. Her eyes widened at the coldness despite the hot drink. "Well, I want to try on my outfit for tomorrow's performance once more. So, I'll be a few minutes, but Delphox can help with the heating, kay?"
His chattering teeth were the only response, so she stood back up and took out her Pokéball. Her starter materialised and instantly started a flame on her wand. Smiling as she helped warm up her boyfriend, she turned and made her way into the bathroom with her bag. Pulling out the outfit for tomorrow's performance, she quickly changed. Standing in front of the mirror, she took in her full appearance.
She wore a red rangers jacket with a white undershirt which hugged her nicely. A stylish white belt rested on her hips, slightly bigger than she realistically needs. Letting it rest nicely on her hips. Her bottom half wore a pair of black hot-shorts which only covered near the top of her upper thigh. Mountain-hiking socks covered up to knee with a pair of red trainers. Placing her hands on her hips, she turned to check out how the entire outfit.
Smiling. She remembered a time when wearing such an outfit would embarrass her but whether it's from her more mature self, or increased confidence from contests and showcases or even just the thought of Ash's reaction. Something now just felt right in dressing with more emphasis on her figure.
With a kick in her step, she made her way back into the room. Her starter had done a good job of helping warm Ash back up, but he was still wrapped up in his blanket. Delphox moved over to the other side of the room, and he turned face her. She couldn't help but beam, seeing his bottom lip tremble slightly as his eyes widened. He tried to say something, but no words came out. Placing her hands on her hips, she twisted around, showing off her outfit.
"What'cha think?" she asked.
"I erm-I..." He stuttered. "Yeah."
Giggling at his reaction, she levitated herself across the room, a flick of ESP moved his hot chocolate over to a nearby table, landing on her knees, straddling her boyfriend. She placed her hands on his face, forcing him to look up at her. While not nearly as cold as before, he was still cool to the touch.
"Don't worry Ashy," she whispered, leaning down to rub her nose with his, "I'll help you feel nice and warm in no time."
She couldn't help herself with another childish giggle seeing his cheeks burn bright red. Moving her head slightly, she connected their lips in a series of quick pecks, using the swift flurry to deepen the show of affection. Her arms ekans their way around his body, letting her slide to his side into a more comfortable position. Her hand reached down to the bottom of his shirt, lightly flicking his shirt up to reach his stomach underneath.
Frowning from his lack of involvement, she grabbed one of his hands and moved it onto her top hip. Spreading on leg over his lap, she placed his other hand on her lower leg. Humming happily as she felt him grasp. She returned to the show of affection, leaving a flurry of kisses on his lips, face, and neck.
"Se-Serena-"
"Sh-sh-sh." She shushed through her ESP, not ending her show of affection. "Less talking... more-"
She pulled his face in for a deeper kiss. While she felt him push back into the make-out session, his hand lightly squeezing her lower leg which forced her to moan into him. Smiling softly, she nuzzled deeper into his embrace, her hand lightly travelled up his shirt, stopping just over his heart. Looking up from her withdraw position, she glanced up to her red-faced boyfriend. She felt his hand let go of her lower leg, but a weak pulse of ESP kept it there.
"Do you... like my outfit?" she muttered.
"Huh?" he blinked, clearly not expecting the question. She saw his brain working overtime to provide an answer. It took nearly a minute for it. "Yeah."
"It's not a real ranger outfit or anything," she whispered, circling a finger around his chest. "I brought the red jacket, shirt and shorts. Then just sowed the badges and bits on to make it seem official. I felt like it would suit the performance we've been planning."
"This the one with Absol and Zangoose?" he asked, to which she gave a single nod. An awkward silence fell between the two and her hand dropped down onto her own stomach. She chanced a glance up to him once more, briefly wondering if she should try to rekindle the romantic moment. "Serena-"
"Yeah." Her voice trailed off, as her eyes fell to glance over the room. "Wanna talk?"
"Why?" she asked, a slight crack in her voice.
"Well... we never really got to discuss the whole... day with aqua and magma." He muttered. "We spent best part of a month on Pacifidlog, and you were distant. And I get it, we all went through a lot, and it takes time to process. Then we set off and you had one chat with Mr Briney. I don't know what either of you said but since then... it seemed to work, and you've been really trying to get ready for tomorrow."
"So why bring it back up?" she asked, feeling tears sting her eyes. His hand raised up and lightly stroked her arm.
"Because from the outside it seems like your better or ready or whatever," he replied, placing a light kiss on her forehead, "but I don't want you to feel trapped or forced. I could be wrong, but I get the suspicion that your just suppressing that day."
"I need to be ready for tomorrow." She declared. "To share my smile, just like Aria told me."
"I know you do... it's your last chance to enter the master class," he replied, "but you shouldn't force it. Regardless of what happens in the showcase, it won't change how I feel about you and while I'll support you fully... I don't want you to put tomorrow or the master class above your own wellbeing."
She lightly clutched her own shirt and squirmed slightly, his words echoing in her head. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and let it go. With a hard swallow, struggling past the lump in her throat, she sat up and lightly kissed his cheek before standing up.
"Thank you, Ash." She offered him a soft smile. "I really appreciate the concern. But I need to do this, for myself."
"If you're sure," he replied, offering his own smile but more of a toothy-grin. Feeling the corners of her own mouth flick up in response, she looked across the room and levitated the box from their cooking session over into his hands.
"I'm sure." She nodded. "I'm going to get changed for bed, but you should have these. They're what Delphox and I will be making for the themed round."
"Thanks," he replied, flicking it open. Seeing his boyish grin at the sweet treats.
"It's a chocolate torte with rawst-berry jam." She explained.
"I know it's delicious," Ash replied, turning to look up to her, "oh and Sawyer said he wouldn't be in the hall. It's low on tickets, we only got ours because of you performing and Shauna offering her two guest seats. He wanted to apologise but said he'd still be cheering you on."
"That's fine, I know he's really only here to watch your gym battle anyway," she replied. Turning around, she walked back towards the bathroom, using her powers to levitate her nightwear out of the drawer with her. At the door, she stopped and looked back. "Ash?"
"Yeah?"
"Why bring it up?" she asked. "The suppressing it thing? Why tonight?"
"I couldn't be sure before tonight," he shrugged, picking up the baked good. "But we've... been intimate like that and today just felt... different."
Nodding in understanding, she turned back and entered the bathroom. Standing in front of the mirror, she took in her appearance once more but nothing registrared. The talk with Ash just replayed in her mind, leaving one question for her... is she ready for this showcase?
Serena smiled as she took in the sight of her next showcase and her final chance to enter the master class. While it hadn't changed from her original visit, except for the numerous people now walking around, it was still as breath taking. Maybe it's just the pressure of today catching up but it was a little daunting.
"Okay guys, I'll see you later." She offered a smile to her friends, turning to face them. With a nod of her head, May, Max, and Brock bid her goodbye, walking off to the entrance of the contest hall. She found herself stood alone with Ash and he stepped forward, gently grasping her hand.
"You sure you're ready?" he asked, looking straight down into her eyes. Closing her eyes, she let her lips curl up into a more relaxed smile. Pushing herself up, she enjoyed the few seconds of bliss as their lips connected. Slowly lowering back down, she stared back into his chocolate brown orbs.
"I know your just concerned for me... and I appreciate it," she replied, grasping his hands even tighter. "But I need to do this for myself."
"Okay then," he smiled. Releasing her hands, he pulled her into a tight hug which she glad returned. Whispering into her ear, "but if it gets too much or you decide you do need to talk... then I'm here. Deal?"
"Deal."
She watched as he let go, pecking her forehead and walking to join the others. Taking a deep breath, she let the emotional whirlwind wash over her before refocusing on the contest hall. Heading inside herself, she made her way through the back ways. One of the stage workers guided her to the changing room.
As she walked through the building, she couldn't help but notice the number of performers competing. It's surely more than any other showcase she's been apart off. Feeling her heart thump harder against her chest, she couldn't decide if it was due to nerves or excitement.
Reaching the changing rooms, she found Shauna amongst the crowd and the two caught up. While they briefly passed each other during the time between their first encounter in Sootopolis and today, they've most been keeping to themselves. Wanting to keep their preparation for both the themed round as well as the routine practises separately. Getting a brief catch up, the television on the wall soon turned to the opening ceremony for the showcase.
"C'est mon grand plaisir to introduce our judges for this event!" Monsieur Pierre announced. "Firstly, head of our showcase committee and the original Kalos queen, Palermo Yashio!" The light shone down over the judges panel, illuminating the white-haired women with an unreadable expression. "Next is a local celebrity to the city of Sootopolis. A contest master turned gym leader. One of the favourites for the elite four position opening up, Juan Adan!"
She took in the sight of the elderly man who sat next to Palermo. His hair stood out the most with a white stripe of hair sticking out amongst the short, slicked back black hair. A thin moustache covered his top lip. Standing, he revealed an ocean-blue trenchcoat with white rims. A puffy white neck piece with some sort of sapphire decorating it topped off the smart black shirt underneath. While she couldn't make out the lower half of his outfit, she assumed it was just as royal.
"The pleasure is all mine." He announced. "I look forward to the artistry these fine performances shall put on. Bringing more beauty to the world."
"And now to introduce our final guest and judge for the themed performance!" Monsieur Pierre continued. "A world class chef who, along with her Weavile have captivated both audiences and dinners by combining ze art of cooking with a show! Having served presidents, champions and present several award-winning shows, she is known as the queen of culinary! Showing off exactly what we're looking for in this round, Rhoda Ramsey!"
The lights went down and a women in her late twenties walked out with a familiar looking Pokémon beside her. She had medium length brown hair which reached down to her shoulders, with a hairnet which held it in place. A traditional black waitress outfit made up her outfit as she scanned her partner.
Weavile, The Sharp Claws Pokémon. The final evolved form of Sneasel. They attack their quarry in packs. Prey as large as Mamoswine easily fall to the teamwork of a group of Weavile. The Pokémon with the most scars in the pack will be the leader
Putting the device away, they reached the cooking station, staring down the audience with a soft smile. Turning to the ice dark type, she couldn't help but notice the lack of any sort of battle marks on her... considering what the dex said, maybe she raised her from an egg and thus never was a part of a pack.
Reaching under the counter, she tossed a ball of lettuce out. Weavile lept up and snatched it out of the air. She produced a large bowl and moved to the side.
Weavile spun it around on one clawed finger. Using her other paw to cut up the greenery plant, spitting leaves of lettuce into the clear bowl.
Rhoda lit up a single gas panel on the oven, with an open flame flickering. Holding frying pan over the flame, she poured some olive oil into the pan.
A fire erupted in the pan, but she remained calm. Twisting it around to cover the pan, she seemed to dance with the flame flickering on display.
Weavile produced several more salad items during this, including cucumber, tomato, spring onion, pepper and even carrots. Using different techniques for slicing them up in shows of skill whilst filling up the lush looking salad bowl.
The camera turned back to Rhoda, and she seemed to be throwing pinches of different herbs and spices in. Swirling the pan around, continuing her fire dance.
She couldn't help but feel like she was watching a magician. Throwing powders into their potion. She found herself mesmerised by the flame.
Pulling the pan off the heat, the fire dialled down and poured the hot sauce over the salad. A deep breath of icy wind covered the top of the dish, leaving a crisp cool texture over the summer salad. Leaving the orange sauce more stable over the
"And finished." Rhoda declared. "This is a simple summer salad with locally grown ingredients, enriched through the Hoenn farmlands. While the sauce is our own special spice recipe. By freezing it on top, it'll melt out through eating and compliment the flavours of the dish rather than overwhelm like some sauces."
"Fabuleuse!" Monsieur clapped, encouraging the audience to do the same as Rhoda walked over to the judges panel, taking the last seat. A wave of psychic energy shot out of a Chimecho, returning the kitchen to its original state. "Now we shall move with our themed performance. Please welcome Katie Mitchell!"
Taking her seat on the far wall of the changing room, she focused her attention on the screen mounted on the wall. A performer was already on stage, part way through preparing some sort of cake mixture with her partner, a Plusle stood on the table, helping out but mostly cheering. Today will be a long day.
An hour past with her still focused on the screen. Some of the performers stood out but without actually tasting the end results, she couldn't entirely be sure who'd be her competition here. The variety of different dishes also threw her off. She lightly clutched the Pokéball of her starter Pokémon.
"Calling Serena Yvonne."
Turning to the entrance of the changing room, she saw a stagehand with a clipboard in hand. Putting a smile over her lips, she stood up and walked. She followed the women through the corridors, she ended up right at the edge of the stage. Taking out her Pokéball, she let Delphox out to stand behind her.
Looking over the stage, she noticed one of the other girls finishing up her own demonstration. She seemed to have made a nice summer salad with her Scyther skilfully slicing through the ingredients. She had to admit that the healthy lunch did look appealing, and her bug was clearly precise with their strikes, but she focused her attention on the three judges in front of them.
"An excellent display of skill but repetitive." Juan appraised. "No one likes a one-trick Ponyta."
"Although the ingredients are excellently sourced, cut to the perfect size for a portion and all the qualities leave a rainbow of flavour," Rhoda added, "like all good salads should be. A perfect complimentary blend to any dish you wish to pair with it."
Palermo, however, simply wrote something down on a sheet, not uttering a word. Her eyes flicked up and seemed to stare straight into the girls eyes. She could've sworn she heard a pin drop as they awaited the former showcase queen's judgement. She can't before sure how much time passed until, "next."
Knowing the results wouldn't be revealed until everyone performed, she watched the girl walk off with her bug type to the other side of the stage. A wave of ESP washed over the kitchen layout, returning it to the original starting position, taking about a minute. She and Delphox each tied an apron around them as the stage was restored. With a gesture from the stagehand, she took a deep breath and narrowed her gaze, walking out with her starter behind her.
She dropped the bag onto the counter and moved over to the cupboards as her starter used psychic to bring out some chocolate from the bag. Using a light flame to melt the sweet treat, she levitated it over to one of the bowls and into the utensil. Taking it off her with ESP, her fire psychic type levitated it over, using her own flame on the end of the wand to help melt it whilst stirring it around.
Smiling at her starter taking on the first task, she took out a second bowl and brought it over to the bag of ingredients. Bringing out eggs, she cracked them into the bowl before using a bowl to help remove the yolk from the whites. Putting the yolk into a separate bowl, she continued until seven yolks sat in the bowl. She glanced to the side as Delphox added half a cup of unsalted butter to her chocolate mix. Using a gentle stirring motion to help it combine together.
Adding a spoon of balsamic vinegar to the egg whites, she placed them into the electronic whiskers, turning it on. Whilst it was on a high spin, she added two tablespoons of sugar as it stretched to a bigger volume. Originally, she planned a basic recipe, but they went on flourless to try and ear extra points.
Once the whites were thick and creamy, filling up the large bowl, she turned off the electronic whisks. Pulling the bowl out, she scrapped them into a cooking dish before dropping the yolks into the original whisking bowl. Adding in half a cup of sugar, a teaspoon of vanilla and a quarter teaspoon of salt, she put the bowl back into the whisks. Turning the machine back on until it became a pale buttery colour.
Taking the bowl out, she showed off the end result to the crowd and judges. Using a clean spoon, she lifted it up and let it slip down, creating a ribbon pattern to show how it should've turned out. Delphox came over with her warm chocolate mix, adding it into the yolk base.
Taking the manual whisk tool, she started whisking them together, with a little more vigour then the electronic tool. Once happy with the original mixture, she stopped and added in half of her whites mixture. Slowing down her manual whisking, watching as the whites deflated into the recipe. Happy with the combination, she added in the rest of her whites, changing to her spatula to truly get a sense of the richness.
Her starter took out a springform pan and greased the inner part. Even adding on a layer of sugar to bake on a crust during the cooking process. Finishing both off near the same time, she poured the rich brown chocolate mixture into her starters pan.
Delphox wasted no time in levitating the pan overhead. Holding it up with her wand. With a deep breath, a strong flamethrower shot up, cooking it in front of everyone over the stage. Smiling at the display, she moved back over to her bag of ingredients. Taking out a punnet of rawsberries, she started cutting them up into quarters. The rich aroma of chocolate spreading out over the entire stage.
As her starter lowered the torte cake down, it had a strong dome over the top, filling the pan with a slight dip from the edge. She carefully used psychic to lift it out and place on a display plate. Taking out final product, Serena took out a civ. Sprinkling icing sugar into the top, she lightly rained it down to give a white coating on top of the warm desert. Taking her cut up fruit, she added them on top to finish off the final product.
"And finished."
Taking out a knife, she cut off three slices of cake, each with two quarters of rawstberries on top. Placing them onto the plate, Delphox used her psychic powers to send them out across the stage. Leaving one in front of each of the judges.
"Excellent show of teamwork between yourself and Delphox." Juan praised. "Making the most of both her fire and psychic typings for the show."
"The torte is rich and strong, with the sweet rawst berries complementing it beautifully." Rhoda smiled. "And taking on this sort of recipe without the traditional flour, instead finding suitable substitutes really shows off expertise."
Feeling the corners of her lips flick up in a smile, she glanced over to Palermo, who once again was simply writing something down. Her heart thumped harder as the silence seemed deafening up on the stage. The older women's eyes glanced up, locking with her own. "Next."
Turning, she set off to the exit with her starter following shortly behind. She let out a long breath once off the stage. It shouldn't surprise her; Palermo has given the same response to every performer so far. Clearly not letting her thoughts viewable for anyone but given the other two judges appraisal, she felt confident in her chances. With her head held high, they set off back towards the changing room.
Taking her seat back in the room, her starter stood beside her as their attention focused back on the themed performances. Several more performers past until Shauna took her spot on the stage. She had a familiar looking Gallade stood beside her.
The two of them went ahead to make some spicy noodles stir fry. It seemed to use the same cutting skill that the Scyther from before her own performance used but also with the utility of psychic type energy, just like her own performance. There was also a low tune playing in the background, making the entire performance seem more like a dance. She couldn't help but feel nervous as the show went on, feeling like Shauna was her biggest opponent in the first round.
Serena stood in the changing room as the screen showed both Palermo and Monsieur Pierre on the main stage. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and slowly let it go. A soft paw engulfed her hand. Opening her eyes once more, she turned to face her starter, who offered a soft smile. Giving her a single nod to answer her unasked question, they turned back to the screen as the music stopped playing.
"We're now ready to reveal the five performers who passed through the themed performance and shall be allowed to complete in order to earn this princess key." Palermo held the item up for the audience. "I must ask you all to vote honestly as this is their last chance to enter the master class and compete to become Hoenn's first showcase queen. After the recent events this regions seen, we need a strong idol to help show us all a brighter tomorrow."
"Sans plus tarder, our finalists are," Monsieur gestured up to the screen, one by one an image appeared on the screen over the stage. "Azure Pearce, Kelsie Sweet, Cornine Woods, Shauna Sana and Kiki Triggs! We'll proceed with the oncoming performances in just a few minutes, restez à l'écoute!"
She blinked. A numbing-feeling spread down her arms and legs. Despite seeing others moving around her, she couldn't bring herself to do much.
"Del Delphox?" her fire psychic type asked, placing a paw on her shoulder, lightly massaging it.
Feeling pushed back into the real world, she swallowed hard, but a lump seemed to have formed in her throat. Feeling her bottom lip quiver, she sunk her teeth into to keep it under control. Unable to voice her current feeling, she pulled a Pokéball off her belt, recalling her starter into the device.
Walking out of the room, she quickly made her way towards the exit. Hastening her pace with each passing step. The thoughts and dreams she's had of competing in her first master class flashed in her head. Each performance she's done from the first one back at the silver conference replaying.
Feeling a familiar sting in her eyes, she found herself back outside under the hot Hoenn sun. Taking a seat on a park bench outside the performance hall, she stared ahead as the memories continued the loop. Her head dropped and she squeezed her eyes shut, her heart ached like never before. Everything around her seemed to disappear. Her nose smelt nothing; the bustling city sounds sizzled out from her eyes. Just the memories continued to taunt her.
"Serena?"
She glanced up and noticed none-other than Ash stood, with the sun behind him, putting most of his features in shadow. Only his boyish toothy grin stood out as the tears welled up in her eyes. Jumping up from her seat, she practically tackled, wrapping her arms around his back. Clutching into his hoodie, she nuzzled her head into his chest. Feeling his own arms wrap around her, she let the floodgates fall and openly wept into him.
"It's okay... let it out... let it out..." His soft words helped as they remained stood in the position for who knows how long.
As her tears dried up from her eyes, she slowly moved out of the embrace. Taking a seat back on the bench, he took one right next to her. Wrapping his arm over her shoulder
"Wanna talk about it?" he asked. "I know it hurts... I can't imagine what I'd think if I couldn't compete in a league... especially only being one badge away-"
"No-"
"Okay, well we don't need to talk." He stuttered slightly, lightly rubbing her shoulder in a comforting motion. "We could go on a walk or-"
"No Ash... I want to talk but-"
"I thought you said no to the talking?" He quirked an eyebrow up before shaking his head. "Never mind, what do you want to talk about? If it's the themed-"
"Not the showcase... I-I'm not even upset with the result," she replied, "I don't think I'm ready to be a showcase queen."
"Serena..." His voice trailed off. Shaking her head, signalling him to be quiet, she had several more memories surface.
"I mean it, Ash, after what happened at mount chimney, I am not ready." She tried to come up with some sort of explanation, but none really did it justice so instead she leaned her forehead against his, pushing her ESP in to share her own memories with her boyfriend. "Let me show you."
Darkness surrounded them as they appeared in her mind. A bright flash brought forward the memory in question. Going back to her first showcase in the Hoenn region and an encounter with her rival-turned-friend back in Rustboro before they even encountered either aqua or magma.
She made her way into the dressing room and found Lisia waiting for her. Her Altaria was sat on one of the benches, looking like some sort of princess. The turquoise haired girl turned towards her with a smile on her face. Serena took a seat opposite side of the room and smiled at her team.
"Well done, everyone, regardless of the outcome, you all did amazing out there," she smiled, speaking out loud because of Murkrow's dark typing, "I couldn't have asked for more from any of you."
"You deserve just as much credit," a voice drew her attention, it belonged to Lisia, "that a really amazing performance!"
"Oh erm, thanks Lisia," she muttered.
"Is something the matter?" she asked, taking a seat next to her, "if its insecurity about your performance then forget about. I think I know whose won todays Princess Key... or at least who deserves it."
"Thanks, but it's not that," she replied, barely above a whisper, casting her look downward.
"Then can I ask what's up?" Lisia asked, "I've got a feeling it's about me."
"Well... I don't want you to take this the wrong way," she chanced a glance at her. A smile, ever-present on her face.
"I promise, I won't," she reassured.
"Okay, it's just... I don't know," she admitted, "I don't know what to make of you."
"Make of me?" she asked, her head corked to one side with her eyebrow quirking upwards. Her smile turned quizzical as her eyes focused on her.
"It's just... your always smiling and happy and full of energy," she replied, "I have a rival and friend. She isn't travelling around Hoenn, but I think she's competing in showcases up in Sinnoh. Her names Miette. She always acted that way, especially when my friends were around but she'd often have an alternative motive. Not always bad but it was usually just to mess with me in one way or another."
"And your scared I'm gonna try to mess with you in a similar way," she nodded in understanding. Closing her eyes, the smile never faded as she leaned back and cast her head back to stare at the ceiling, "I'm going to tell you the reason I always try to have a smile, Serena, hope that helps."
"Hmm," she hummed as she studied the super star.
"You see, Serena, it isn't always easy to be upbeat and have a smile," she explained, "but that is the best way to create a genuine one on someone else. And if I can brighten just one person's day with a smile, then it's worth it."
The world around them faded, leaving the two of them in the dark empty landscapes of her mind. She tightly clutched his hand as she thought the urge to not let tears continue spilling out of her eyes. Squeezing her eyes shut, she took a deep breath to help calm herself down.
"Don't be silly, Serena, you care just as much about people as Lisia or anyone." His arms wrapped around her. "You would've made a great showcase queen."
Instead of responding, she turned around and brought forward another memory. The surrounding area flashed once more, returning her to the backstage of the Verdanturf showcase. Stood in the centre of the room was none-other than Palermo. Her arms were crossed with a frown on her lips.
"Are you proud of that performance?" she asked. Her voice monotone but she couldn't help but think there was a judgement behind it.
"I erm, well," she stuttered, "there's always room for improvement but-"
"This isn't some public interview, and I don't expect those tauros-it responses," she cut her off, "I asked a question. Answer it."
"Did..." she paused, "did I do something wrong?"
"You registrared three Pokémon in your performance, Kingdra, Dewgong and Feebas," she replied, "I noticed the former two, but Feebas was no-where to be seen. Why?"
"Well..." she swallowed, "I-I think she was suffering from stage fright a-and-"
"And you thought it was suitable to register a Pokémon not prepared for today's festivities?" she asked.
"I-"
"Doesn't matter," she cut her off, "fact is, you lied and failed to deliver on your promise. As such, I have disqualified you from today's competition. You won't join the other performers for the judging process. You won't take home the princess key from today. Now I suggest you get change and leave."
"But I didn't know Feebas would-"
"Don't you dare finish that sentence," she cut her off, "your Feebas' trainer. If you don't know what's going through their head, who does? You can try and use any excuse, but it doesn't change the end result. As the performer, the buck stops with you and that goes triple if you reach the role of showcase queen."
A rush of power pushed them back and it took a second, but she found herself back in the real world. Shaking her head slightly from the blow, she watched as her boyfriend
"I wasn't strong enough to save Courtney and I'm not strong enough to be a showcase queen." She sighed, dropping her head.
"If that's how you really feel..." He paused, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Then how do we fix it?"
"Huh?"
"I might not agree that you wasn't ready to win but that won't change the outcome for today's showcase," he explained, "and regardless of how I do in the league, I know I'm going to keep pushing myself to get stronger. If that's what you need to do too, then I'm here to help however I can."
"Thanks Ash." She let her lips flick up in a small smile. "I-I'm not actually sure what's next... but I know I want to get back into more battling. I promised my team when I started contests, I wouldn't give up on our roots but I've kinda moved away. So-"
"Then that means I'll have a new training partner to get me in shape for the league?" He smirked. Reaching out, he grasped her hand, "come on."
"Where too?" she asked, stumbling as he pulled her along.
"Back to the show," he replied, "I bet Shauna will be performing soon and I know you. You wouldn't forgive yourself if you didn't support her in this last hurdle before the master class. Now that you're out, someone needs to win the final princess key."
Running to keep up with the endless ball of energy, which was her boyfriend, she couldn't stop the smile from spreading wider. She thought voicing her concerns of not being ready would make her feel worst but turns out the opposite happened. She even tricked herself into thinking she could win today to prove those inner thoughts wrong, but she guessed the judges saw right through it. She might not know what the future holds now, especially since she won't even make it to her first master class, but she couldn't help but feel like a breath of fresh air. The free-est she's felt since the whole mount chimney event.
Making it back into the audience area, Ash took his seat but there wasn't an empty seat nearby. She couldn't even register it before being pulled down onto his lap. Wiggling slightly into a more comfortable position, she fell into his embrace as the showcase host walked back onto the stage.
"And now please welcome our first lovely performer today in the Sootopolis Showcase!" Monsieur Pierre's voice announced. "S'il vous plaît mettez vos mains ensemble pour, Shauna Sana."
A light humming started in time with a piano playing overhead. A platform raised up onto the stage with Venusaur, three vines were out of his back plant, running across a large piano which sat in front of him... it took her a second to realise that he was actually creating the music, not just mimicking.
"I will not make the same mistakes that you did! I will not let myself 'cause my heart so much misery!"
A spotlight appeared in front of the piano, revealing Shauna. She was dressed in a smart black tuxedo with a white undershirt, a small black bow tie to decorate her neck. She was in front of a standing microphone and actually singing the song... with perfect sync to her starters musical tune.
"I will not break the way you did! You fell so hard! I've learned the hard way, to never let it get that far!"
She felt her mouth drop slightly at the vocal of the last line. Never did she imagine a performance being anything other than a dance routine. She's never been much of a singer but hearing Shauna for the first time... a lump formed in her throat as her eyes refused to move off the brunette performer.
"Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk! Because of you, I learned to play on the safe side, so I don't get hurt!"
Venusaur let out a few more vines, picking up a drumstick in two of them. A light appeared on the musical instrument to his side. Using some vines for the foot pedals, he continued adding in a second instrument to help bolster the beat in line with Shauna's powerful voice.
"Because of you, I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me! Because of you, I am afraid!"
As the tune seemed to restart on a lower level, a small blue Illumise flew out over the stage. Sprinkling some sort of dust under her flight path, she had a similar bow tie to her trainer. With the other spotlights turning off, only one remained following the pure bug type over the stage.
"I lose my way, And it's not too long before you point it out! I cannot cry, Because I know that's weakness in your eyes!"
Flying high above the stage, her body shimmered with a mystic glow, as if using recover or another healing move. Dark green bug type energy radiated around her. Moving in the same pattern as her twisty curvy flight, like some sort of mating ritual she's seen other bug Pokémon perform in the wild.
"I'm forced to fake a smile, a laugh! Every day of my life! My heart can't possibly break, When it wasn't even whole to start with!"
Stopping high over her trainer, an erupt of light pink fairy type energy mixed with the bug buzz. Creating a sort of firework effect over the stage as Venusaur once again built up his beat. The effects sprinkled down over the stage as the lights returned to the other performers as well.
"Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk! Because of you, I learned to play on the safe side, so I don't get hurt!"
Serena couldn't stop her mind linger on the lyrics of the song. Her thoughts soon fell to Courtney, she's been beating herself up all this time for not being able to save her. Her thoughts turned towards the man who ended up turning her into the extremist who blew up mount chimney... Maxie... but also her own dad.
"Because of you, I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me! Because of you, I am afraid!"
Her pure bug type landed softly on the piano, bobbing her head along to the tune. As the other spotlights fade, a new one appeared, following a cream-beige and purple furred feline Pokémon who pounced onto the stage from the side.
"I watched you die (Ill-u-mise)! I heard you cry! Every night in your sleep!"
A spark of electricity surrounded Delcatty as she lept and twisted over the stage in her own sort of dance. Listening closely to the back-ground voice to help complement Shauna, she heard the bug type repeat her name but without focusing too hard, it sounded like another person background singing.
"I was so young (Ill-u-mise)! You should have known better (Ill-u-mise), Than to lean on me!"
Her tail swayed behind, shimmering in a silver-metal. The electricity swirled around, creating a light-stick effect as she lept up onto the piano. Sending the bug type back into a low soar over the stage, Delcatty backflipped off the instrument, smashing the electrified iron tail onto the stage.
"You never thought of anyone else! You just saw your pain (Ill-u-mise)!"
A ball of ESP formed in front of both Pokémon's heads, breaking apart to create a sort of psychic shield as they ran around the stage. The normal type pounced but Illumise swooped back and flew underneath. Both of them entering a sort of dance to illuminate the stage around them.
"And now I cry! In the middle of the night! For the same damn thing!"
The blue blurs faded into the background as a single spotlight remained over Shauna. Her mind still focused on everything that happened and she couldn't help but feel like the lyrics were related solely to her own tournament currently. Magma... Aqua... they've hurt so many people in their pursuit for peace.
"Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk! Because of you, I learned to play on the safe side so I don't get hurt!"
Shauna continued to sing as Venusaur's tune really picked up the percussion. She found herself speechless as she watched her friend captivate the entire audience with just her voice. She felt tears sting her eyes as she couldn't even bring herself to blink for a second in case, she missed something.
"Because of you, I try my hardest to just forget everything! Because of you, I don't know how to let anyone else in!"
Both Illumise and Delcatty let their zen headbutts fizzle out as they returned to her side. The normal type stood tall by her feet, looking prim and proper with a slightly raised nose. While her bug type landed on the opposite side's shoulder, gently fluttering down.
"Because of you, I'm ashamed of my life, Because it's empty! Because of you, I am afraid, Because of you."
Serena felt her breath stick in her throat as the crowd jumped up in applause for the brunette performer. Her Venusaur walked around the instruments to join the others and they each bowed. She tried to clap as well but couldn't tear her eyes away. She was suddenly very thankful for not having to follow her up on that stage. Based on this reaction, it's certain who the favourite is pass on through. "Whoa."
She watched the stage as the votes from the audience flew overhead. All five girls stood in a row with their bars filling up, but it was clear who the winner would be. Most of them had little or no votes while Shauna's seemed close to filling.
"C'est mon honneur to present our winner of Sootopolis' showcase and the final participant in our first ever Hoenn master class, Shauna Sana!" Monsieur Pierre announced. The crowd erupted in applause as she stepped forward, her Venusaur behind her. The host's Klefki floated over and dropped the final key into her hands. She took out her set and added it onto the ring. "Is there anything you wish to say to the people of Hoenn?"
"Yes... thank you all. I-I can't thank each of you enough for this chance," she replied, using the microphone built into the stage stand. "I know we've all gone through a lot these last few weeks. It's in times like this that we need to find strength and that song is what gave me strength in the past, so I hope in some way I've been able to pass on the same to those who need it now more than ever... I just... I can't believe this is really happening."
As more applause echoed, the show came to an end, and they started making their way out of the hall. Tightly intertwining her hand with Ash's, she thought back to Shauna's performance. Even if her own performance was well rehearsed, it was just so unique and well executed that its clear who'd of won. It didn't take them long before they made their way outside, with many other people heading off back to their regular days, wherever that may take them.
"Hey guys, I'll catch you up." She let go off her boyfriend's hand, taking a few steps away from them.
"You sure?" May asked, concern in her voice, "do you want to talk or-"
"No May... I'm good, great actually." She offered a wide smile for emphasis. "Shauna's performance... it helped me realise something. I just want to catch up with her before she heads off. I'll catch you all back at the centre later."
"'Kay babe, see you there," Ash nodded, returning his own wide smile. Leading them away, she was silently thankful for his insistence. She might've not been able to convince them herself given the last few weeks but he's faith clearly seemed to help support them. With a deep breath, she turned back on herself.
Heading back into the contest hall, she made her way back towards the changing rooms. She passed some of the other finalists as they made their way out in the regular outfits. As she rounded the corner, she noticed the door open, and Shauna stood with Palermo.
Freezing in place, she could only hear light muttering. About three seconds past before the white-haired women turned and walked out, slipping her sunglasses down to cover her eyes. A low hum sounded against her tightly sealed lips. She couldn't help but cross her arms over her stomach and shrink slightly in her posture as she felt like the women was judging her, but she didn't stop. Walking past without so much of a word uttered from her.
Sighing in relief, she shook slightly and continued into the changing rooms where Shauna stood. She was holding up her collection of princess keys on the ring similar to her own. The corners of her lips flipped up into a smile at her friends clear excitement. Shauna didn't even seem to register her presence yet.
"Hey." She walked in front of the brunette, pulling her out of the trace and she lowered her three keys. "You're not leaving without saying goodbye, I hope."
"Serena," she replied, a slight quiver in her voice. "I-I thought you left already."
"No..." She gently shook her head. "I just needed to get some air, but I how could I not congratulate you?"
"You're not upset?" she asked, "I-I mean, you didn't even get the chance to compete in the final performance."
"I don't think it would've mattered." She let out a low sigh. "And honestly... I'm kinda glad it happened how it did."
"Why?" she asked.
"After the... disasters, I've been different. Something happened and it showed me that I'm not strong enough," she replied, "even if I made it through to the master class... I wouldn't be the showcase queen that Hoenn deserves or needs right now. And I doubt I would've beat your performance anyway."
"Hehehe." She nervously chuckled. "Well... I knew we had to do something unique... to stand out. Ya know."
"You certainly accomplished that." She smiled. Thank you. Your performance, the strength you offered during was what really helped me realise myself."
"It was an all or nothing performance," she replied, "but seeing the response, I might need to come up with another song for the master class."
"I'm sure you'll do great." Serena encouraged. "Can I ask what Palermo wanted?"
"She... congratulated me on earning the three keys," she sighed. "But also said she doubts I have what it takes to win... offering me training for the role, like how she trained Aria."
"Are you going to take it?" she asked.
"I dunno." Shauna shrugged. "Maybe... I want to still complete of course, even if I don't win... just seeing how far I get will be a good benchmark."
"Good luck," she replied, "know that I'll be supporting you all the way."
"Guess I'll be competing for both of us now." She tightened her fist in determination. "What about you?"
"I'm... gonna take a break from showcases for a while." She turned to the ceiling. "Get back to my roots. Get stronger and... hopefully find what I lost."
"So, what're you going to do now if not showcases?" Shauna asked.
"I'mma support Ash in the league and May in the grand festival." She smiled widely. "After that... I'm not too sure, we need to decide where we're going first, and I'll probably find something there. I just know I want to return to my battling roots and regain whatever I lost."
"Guess this means no more showcases then." She sighed. "I would've liked to at least face you in a free-style round if I knew it was your last."
"You won fair and square... no performance I've had ready could've matched what you put on today," she shook her head. "You deserve that spot in the master class, Shauna and even if I don't make it to the event, know I'll be supporting you all the way."
"Thanks Serena," she tried to give a small smile.
"And don't worry, I'm not giving up on being a showcase queen completely," she replied, "consider this a holiday... for me to find myself again. Then when I'm ready, you best believe I'll be coming back for that crown. Whether it's yours, Lisia's or anyone else's."
"You can try." Shauna returned the smirk. Holding her hand out, the two shared a strong handshake. Pulling the brunette in, it turned into a hug with a brief word of goodbye. Ending the embrace, she watched her friend head down in the opposite direction, towards the docks where boats were resting.
With a smile on her face, she set off down the path back to the Pokémon centre. She meant every word said to Shauna, she's not giving up on showcases, she'll never give up but to be an effective queen, she needs to work on herself. Every part, including her role as a chosen. Recently she's taken the role lightly, and so has Ash. They may have faced Aqua and Magma when they appeared, but they didn't actively investigate or even try to understand them. Meaning they ended up heavily unprepared for the final encounter and others paid that price. No longer will she take her role so carelessly. It didn't take long finish her trip.
Upon entering the centre, she smiled at the sight which awaited her. Ash was sat at one of the tables by the window with a selection of Pokéballs on top with a familiar yellow mouse facing him, the two engrossed in some sort of discussion. As she walked forward, her boyfriend's starter lept of the table. Running across the floor, he lept up onto her shoulder. She stumbled slightly from the unexpected weight. "Hello Pikachu."
"Chaaa!"
She scratched the top of his head and continued forward, taking the seat opposite. Pikachu bounced back down next to the team, "so who did you end up getting for tomorrow's gym battle?" she asked, tickling Pikachu's chin once more. "Other than this one, of course."
"Well, I did promise Pikachu a position in the final gym battle," he shrugged, "but as for the others, you'll just need to wait and see."
"And it couldn't have come soon enough," Pikachu's mental voice echoed, catching her attention. "I can't wait for the kids to hatch but man, taking care of eggs is really tough. I've hardly had time to myself. This'll be a nice break."
"Just leaving Sylveon to do the work, eh?" she asked in a teasing tone.
"Kangashkan actually offered to babysit," Pikachu replied, "it's been so tough that-"
"According to Leaf Kangashkan has been doing most of the work." Ash interjected, cutting his starter off. "Showing you both how to properly cleanse, care and just keep the eggs healthy."
"Well... I wouldn't say most," Pikachu replied, turning to side, "she certainly wasn't involved in the... development sessions."
"Eww," her boyfriend shivered at his electric types inuendo, earning a smirk from said Pokémon.
"And that's what you get for bringing it up," he declared, victoriously. "But I'm glad to have this chance to test out against some new meat. When not on daddy-duty, I've been facing a bunch of opponents at the lab. And a bunch of the guys learnt new stuff and there's even some new ones. Like Drake caught-"
"Well, I'm glad you had fun, and I'm glad everyone will be on top form." Serena cut him off. "But we might need to find the others before it gets late."
"You can tell us more at dinner, bud." Ash smiled, standing up. His electric type leaping up onto his shoulder. Holding his hand out, she gladly took the invitation and slipped her own hand into it. He gave a slight pull, helping her get to her feet. "I told the others we'd meet them for dinner. Then we've got the rest of the night for strategizing and then an early one, so we're all rested for tomorrow's battle."
So yeah... I just wanna say from here on out, you can't trust the chapter layout posted on my profile (as there's no master class arc despite one being shown since I started Hoenn, we've got something else taking up those three spots). I always planned this, but I didn't want to spoil the outcome sooooo now it'll be the accurate chapter layout for Hoenn. Expect other arcs to have similar misdirects, or maybe they won't. We'll just need to wait and see. I did have this planned from the beginning of Hoenn, but I will say, to the guest reviewer who claimed Serena to be a Mary sue and her victory & eventual Hoenn queen title, I hope this has shown that's not the case. Also, part of the reason I'm not just adding in another showcase. Direct results of the aqua & magma disasters over Hoenn. Like I said, I want the villainous team arcs to have consequences. She wasn't ready to win after her state following that arc so better luck next time. Obviously, this isn't the end of her Hoenn character arc, but she won't be working towards the Hoenn master class anymore.
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...