Author's Note:
Here it is, the final part of the preliminaries and I want to say it was difficult to see which of the two rivals battles I wanted to add in along with Ash's final round in this section. As for his final battle, I'm sort of taking a key element from what is my single favourite round of any battle in the entire series... Corphish v Golduck. I love this battle because of the silliness and wanted to have some fun. We'll get to see how the Kalos rivals have been during the festivities. Out of the three, Shauna had the biggest role in Hoenn but that's mostly because she was the one in the best position to do so. Don't worry, both Trevor and Tierno shall get their time to shine just at a later date. Along with Ash's final preliminary battle, we'll get a Serena centric chapter. I'm sure you've noticed I've put some more amour moments in and there is a reason both in story and out of story. The in-story reason is revealed at some point in this chapter but as for the out of story reason, it's because after Hoenn we're heading over to Unova for Drake's journey and while in the same universe, it won't have much of any sort of romance elements. So, you could say I'm getting it out of my system. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin!
Chapter Ninety-Two: Emerald Conference - Preliminaries P III
Ash stood with his arms crossed and looking up to the tele screen mounted on the wall. In the lobby of the field, he caught the last part of the current match before his with Serena loosely hanging on his arm. He bite down on his inner cheek at the sight on the screen.
Tierno was in the middle of his final battle... against none other than Katie. He started with Blastoise and Raichu, using a rain strategy but she quickly dismissed his electric type between her Venomoth and Mismagius. The water starter was stood in the rain with his twin canons shooting powerful jets into the air, trying to shoot down each of the floating Pokémon. Each danced through the air, like some sort of contest-styled dodging.
"Hey guys!" He turned to see Shauna and Trevor walking towards them. "Nice to see you here."
"Hey!" Serena smiled widely, letting go to greet her friend with a hug. "How are you both?"
"We're good," Shauna replied, "we... couldn't take watching that match for much longer... we wanted to be here for when Tierno leaves."
"He could still turn this thing around." he muttered, turning back to the screen.
The words barely left his lips as it showed Venomoth behind the shellfish Pokémon. A psychic hold from the bug prevented the exhausted starter from moving.
Mismagius floated down and placed her cloak arms on either side of the Blastoise face. With a loud cry, a roar from the clouds sent shivers down his spin.
A massive bolt of electricity shot down and struck both Pokémon. Venomoth transition to giga drain, green balls of energy flew out of the electrified starter.
"Enough!" Katie instructed.
With the thunder and giga drain combo coming to an end, both of Katie's Pokémon floated across the field. They barely made it halfway before the pure water type fell forward. A whimper exited his lips as the screen turned to a close up of swirled eyes.
"Blastoise is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "Making the trainer moving onto the top eight Katie Kaede!"
"Man-" He muttered. "I feel bad for Tierno."
"Yeah..." Shauna nodded in agreement. "But it's-"
"You don't seem surprised Tierno just lost?" he asked, quirking an eyebrow up.
"Well... we're not." Trevor chuckled lightly. "I mean, when he got the match up last night... all he could talk about was how he already lost... Tierno's not really been himself during the Hoenn adventure."
"He was the one who suggested we split up not long after arriving," Shauna added, "he went into the match expecting to lose."
"And when you go in without the right head on your shoulders-" Serena added.
"You'd know all about that." Shauna smiled with a sense of sadness. "You know... it wasn't the same. You not being in the master class."
"I didn't make it and I wouldn't have made for good competition either," she replied, "you did great. Making it to the finals with Lisia. I bet next time you'll end up winning and becoming a regional showcase queen."
"I hope so," she replied, "its why I'm heading back to Kalos. It's time someone uproots Aria from her position."
"Good luck with that-" Serena smiled. "I might not be in the showcase circuit but I'm going to be cheering you on."
"What about you, Trevor?" Ash asked. "I bet you'll be joining her right?"
"Nope." He shook his head. "I'm heading off to the Lental region."
"Lental region?" he asked. "I don't think I've heard of it."
"It's not a part of the PLA and doesn't have its own regional league," he replied, "and with the focus on integrating Alola as of late, I doubt it will be. But there's a professor there, Professor Mirror. He specialises in Pokémon environments and has a watcher position open in his lab, so I jumped at the chance."
"Congratulations," Serena smiled. "My cousin got a Professor's internship in the Sinnoh region. I bet you'll be great!"
"Th-thanks-" he blushed lightly.
"Calling the next two trainers to the field tunnels for the next preliminary match." A voice announced over the tannoid. "Ash Ketchum! Hodge Hōji!"
"Guess that's my cue." He leaned down and pecked Serena's cheek. "Wish me luck."
"Of course, but you won't need it." She smiled. "Good luck, love you."
With a smile on his face, he took off and entered the trainer's tunnel down to the field. Walking down the corridor to the field, his mind was focused on the previous battle between Tierno and Katie. She hasn't had a single knocked out Pokémon in her preliminary rounds and has skilfully disarmed her opponents.
While he wants to say every trainer is going to be tough challenges but being honest Katie seems to be the biggest-
His mind turned to the bench on the side a little before the field entrance. The larger teen was sat with two Pokéball's in hand and his head hung low.
"Tierno?" he asked.
"Huh?" He turned to the side. "Oh, hey Ash... I'm guessing your match is next?"
"Yeah... but I've got a couple minutes." He took a seat next to him. "They're still preparing the field. Wanna talk?"
"Not really-" He sunk slightly.
"You know... if I was you and I said that to Serena-" He chuckled lightly, looking up to ceiling. "She'd say then I need to all the more."
"You really love her," he replied to which Ash nodded. "You're lucky... ya know."
"I know." He smiled.
"You know... this is my third league and fourth if you count the orange league-" He sighed. "The fact I lost... that's neither here or there. It's just... this is the first time I didn't make through the preliminaries. It's like I'm going backwards and not forward."
"It's just the luck of the draw... Katie is one tough opponent-" He patted his back. "If this was anyone else, I bet you'd be joining us in-"
"Don't!" He cut him off. "I've been feeling this way for a while... most of Hoenn actually. Shauna made it to the master class finals and Trevor is well on his way to progressing as both a watcher and got that Professor's internship. I feel like I've been holding them back."
"You can't compare yourselves like that, everyone is different." He offered a supporting smile. "You just need to keep looking forward."
"Thanks Ash... but I don't think I'll be in another league..." He stood up. "You know, Shauna made me a suggestion after my Kanto league loss... With my dance-battle-style she said I should give contests a try... at first, I wasn't sure but now... I think I'm gonna take her up on the offer."
"Being a coordinator doesn't make you any less of a trainer." He smiled, offering a handout. The large teen stared for a moment before accepting the gesture ending with a solid shake between the two. "Good luck in the contest circuit... wherever you plan on competing."
Bidding the larger teen goodbye, he watched him disappear down the hall leading into the stadium. Turning back, he walked up to the field entrance.
Taking a deep breath, the familiar sensation of his hairs standing on end and stomach bubbling with excitement. He looked out over the field with the patter of footsteps overhead, the warm air expelled from outside. Feeling his heart thump against his chest, he couldn't help but grin at the building excitement.
"Alright folks, welcome to the fourth battle of the sapphire stadium on day four of the exciting Hoenn league tournament!" The announcer declared. "If you look to the field, we'll see our two competitors entering. On the left, we have Ash Ketchum from Pallet town in the Kanto region and on the right, we have Hodge Hōji from Larvaridge town! Let's give both of them a big Ever Grande welcome!"
His eyes widened at the name and his mind flashed back to his gym battle in the volcano-town. When Norman offered to ref their match, she mentioned her usual assistant who also happened to be called Hodge. When he was deciding on his line-up last night it didn't really click since he wasn't exactly limited to fire types like other gym assistance. He muttered under his breath, "it couldn't be."
Looking ahead as he walked forward, he took in the sight of the slightly older teen. He was dressed in a black leather jacket with some sort of fire-shirt underneath. Matching black ripped jeans but the thing which stood out the most was his hair. It was burning red and stuck out with spikes at the end in some... unusual style. A confident smirk spread across his face as the two of them reached their respective trainer boxes.
"Yo kid!" He called out. "What's that look for?"
"Sorry," he mareepishly turned to the side, scratching his cheek, "can I just ask... are you the gym assistant to Flannery?"
"Sure am." He smirked. "What's it too ya?"
"Oh, I was just curious," he shrugged, "a lot of gym assistants seem to be competing is all."
"Of course," he replied, "after the disasters, many trainers who even earnt eight badges didn't show up. The league decided to offer fast track placement to trainers who work within the system. Gym assistants, referee's and even past competitors to make up the numbers."
Giving a nod of understanding, he let the thought sink in. He couldn't exactly say he was happy with the information. Maybe it's because he did earn all the badges but the thought of someone getting free entry just rubbed him the wrong way. Shaking his head, he refocused on the impending battle.
"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!"
"Crawdaunt and Gardevoir!" He held the two devices out. "I choose you!"
In a flash, his two fully evolved duel typed Pokémon materialised. The psychic fairy type stood in a strong stance with a straight spin, her arms crossed in front of her as she took calm, deep breaths... while Crawdaunt-
"Hey big red an ugly!" He shouted whilst snapping his claws. "Yuh kno who yuh messing wid!"
"Remind me again why I'm subject to baby-sitting this-"
"It's nuh nice fi be calling yuh teammates names." He cut Gardevoir off.
"He only had two Pokémon on record, and both were weak to fairy," he replied to the psychic fairy type, "and I figured... opposite pairings have worked so far and out of whose left... Crawdaunt is a lot more your opposite than Grovyle."
"Lucky me-" He could feel Gardevoir's eyes roll with her annoyed tone.
"Yuh need fi learn tuh relax an join di party!" Crawdaunt cheered.
"We're going to have a serious discussion about your team building ideas once this is over Ashton." Gardevoir declared.
He couldn't help but smile and look down at her tone of voice. He knew she'd comfortably work alongside Swellow, Torkoal and Grovyle out of his Hoenn squad but going with one of them wouldn't help either of them. Part of him hoped her stern nature might help Crawdaunt take things a little more seriously or vice versa and have her relax slightly. While neither side is completely right or wrong in their approach, they're two sides of the extreme.
"Check this!" Hodge declared. "Hariyama and Mightyena!"
In a flash of the light, the two familiar species materialised. The dark canine crouched low and growled threateningly with flaring teeth and claws scratching the dirt field. While his second Pokémon landed on the floor with a heavy thud, sending out a small tremor.
These are two Pokémon he's very familiar with; one thanks to May having her own dark canine and while it could certainly have a different style, getting to see one so often will prove helpful regardless and the other he's battled several times. Not only at the Dewford gym but when facing Brendan on the road. It may not have been the most common Pokémon he's seen in Hoenn but it's certainly up there thinking back.
"I suggest we let the dark types keep each other busy and I'll disarm the fighter." Gardevoir instructed.
"Weh di fun inna that?" Crawdaunt asked. "Mi sey wi si weh di battle takes wi."
"Allow the opponents to move first? Play reactive?" she asked. "I believe Torkoal once said the first to move is the first to make a mistake. I concur."
"Shi feeling alright?" he asked.
Ash couldn't help but mimic his water dark types shock. Gardevoir was never really one to back down or change her mind, but given the start is any moment it could've been a more strategic reasoning to help them on the teamwork. Shaking his head, he refocused on the impending battle.
"Gardevoir and Crawdaunt verses Hairyama and Mightyena!" The ref declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Hodge: Preliminary round four
His eyebrow twitched as both of his opponents pulled scary faces with burning red eyes shooting straight into either side of his own team. He barely had a second to registrar before Crawdaunt replied with a face of his own and weird grunt which caused Gardevoir to face palm.
"What are you doing?" she asked.
"Matching dem scary face!" He declared with pride. "Cyaa ave dem outdo wi!"
"You don't know scary fa-" She was cut off by the dark type pouncing onto her.
Hitting the floor on her back, she kicked her legs up. Using the momentum to throw her combatant off her body. She spun around and ended in a running pose with one knee bent and her arms stretched out, pushing herself up. Staring down the pure dark type, who shook off the dirt.
A wall of light formed in front of her, shooting out fairy type energy. Blinding her opponent with dazzling gleam, she shot forward into the clash.
Glancing to the other side of the field, he noticed his water dark type matching blows with the opposing Hariyama. Crab hammer's smashed into close combat punches with puddles spewing everywhere. He couldn't help but feel like Hariyama had the advantage with his larger side.
"Ally switch!" He hollered.
Knocking her opponent back, her eyes glew bright blue. In a flash of light, she teleport from the spot and Crawdaunt materialised in the place.
Continuing his frantic swing of water-coated claws, he kept pushing the canine back. Lone whimpering howls squeezed from the now drenched fur.
Over the field, he noticed Gardevoir expelling her psychic onto the fighting type. If he were to describe it, it looked like a puppet and puppeteer together.
"Swagger!" Hodge yelled.
His head snapped around to catch the tail end of the confusion educing move. Crawdaunt's eyes blanked out as he wobbled side to side.
Regaining his footing, Mightyena moved in and opened his mouth wide. Fangs sparked with electricity as he bite down on the body of his water dark type.
"Crawdaunt harden!" He shouted.
Mumbling something, he fully evolved Pokémon seemed to have a large smile on his face. Snapping his claws happily, one snapped down on the canine's tail.
"Unbelievable!" The announcer declared. "Crawdaunt nails a vice grip within the midst of his confusion!"
Ending his own thunder fang, the bite Pokémon howled in pain. Shooting off from the spot, he dragged his confused Pokémon along for the ride.
"Ring a ring a roses, pockets full of poses!" Crawdaunt sang. "Bless yuh bless yuh wi all fall dung!"
As he was frown side to side, he eventually got thrown off. Skidding along the field, he crashed into Gardevoir, forcing her to let Hariyama go.
"Hariyama arm thrust now!" Hodge stamped his foot down.
Throwing himself into the two Pokémon with his large plate-like hands. They glew with fighting type energy as Crawdaunt stood on his partner.
In one swift motion, his two claws snapped down on the large, padded hands. Vigorously shaking them up and down, he stopped the fighting type's move.
"What?!" The announcer asked with some of the crowd chuckling. "Crawdaunt stopped Hariyama's attack... with a friendly handshake?!"
The fighting type lifted him up and tried to shake him off from each hand. Clutched on tight, he jolly Pokémon just continued to sing happily.
"I've had enough of this-" Gardevoir muttered, pushing herself up.
Her eyes glew pink for a brief moment. Fairy type energy exploded from within her, expanding over the entire field.
Misty terrain activated and Crawdaunt's eyes returned to normal. Using the momentary pause, Hariyama used the loosened grip and slammed him down on the floor. As he tried to take in the situation, Mightyena came back into the fray, tackling Gardevoir onto her back, crunching down on her shoulder.
He noticed a pink ball form in front of her one and it shot up into the canine's stomach. Hodge's bite Pokémon was blown away as she stood back up.
Standing back up, the glare he caught from the embrace Pokémon caused him to chuckle slight. He thought, "man, she is gonna give me an earful later."
A wall of light formed in front of her. Walking through the dazzling gleam as it shot out into the dark canine, she radiated with a sort of fairy armor.
Grabbing the cowering Mightyena by the scruff, she lifted him off. Blowing a kiss, bright pink lips hit his side and balls of energy flew out.
Tossing him to the ground, her combination faded around her. She didn't even bother looking back as she walked over the field once more.
"Mightyena is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "The battle shall continue."
Looking back to the other field, he took in the sight of the second bout. Crawdaunt was running around on a slippery floor as the pure fighting type spun around. The large, padded hands struck the ground as they danced, none of the opposing crab hammer's seemed to hurt the thick opponent.
"Yuh a guh stand round looking pretty or help out?" Crawdaunt grunted.
"No... I don't think I will-" she crossed her arms with a smirk. "I'd like to see where this goes."
"Yuh likkle-" He was cut off as the fighting types hand knocked him sideways. His claws dug into the ground, stopping his knock back.
Ash's eyes widened as he thought back to his first gym battle in the Hoenn region. Taillow was soaring around and delivering a number of steel winged attacks to the opposing Armaldo's head. Shaking his head, he turned back to the field with a loud smile over taking his face.
"Crawdaunt!" He caught the water dark types attention. "We need to hit smarter, not harder. You knee to hit him smarter, not harder."
Seeing the smirk on his rouge Pokémon's face, he knew he got the message. Extended his claws to the side, they glew bright white and opened up.
Sliding on his side across the light puddle from his previous attacks. He soared between the fighting types legs. Slashing at the back of one knee.
The arm thrust Pokémon stumbled forward. His padded hands hit the floor, breaking his fall, as he grunted in pain.
Leaping up from behind, his rogue Pokémon clamped down on the blue ridge of his head. Pulling back with one claw, his second one opened wide.
A jet of water blasted out, direct into the fighting type's face. Thrashing around to make it stop, Crawdaunt's vice grip kept him in position.
"Stomping tantrum!" Hodge yelled.
Pounding the ground with his large hands, clouds of dust covered both Pokémon. Frantic coughs sounded from within as the battle became invisible.
"Water gun straight up!" He shouted.
A single get of water erupted up out of the dust. Breaking apart at the apex, it came down over the cloud like rain. Dampening the dust cloud, it revealed the large fighting type now stood and grabbing his Pokémon in one hand. Using his full strength, he ripped the fighting type off his body.
Snapping his claw on one of the padded fingers, it loosened enough to drop him. A foot came and kidded him away, creating distance once more.
"This back-and-forth brawl is truly exciting but only one of these competitors can come on top!" The announcer declared.
Seeing the fighting type take up a meditative stance, he frowned. Turning to Crawdaunt, a similar mystic light engulfed his body as he used swords dance.
"Hey bulky bowy!" He taunted, with a gesture from one claw, daring him to approach. "Eff yuh wa it cum an get it!"
Hariyama's eyes burst open, cancelling his attempted bulk up. Flexing both fists to the side, they glew with fighting type energy radiating off.
Taking off in a charge, his water dark type matched it. One claw opened up and a barrage of tightening packed bubbles shot out, striking his face. Causing the large Pokémon to stop in his tracks, he snapped his free claw down on one of the padded hands.
Pointing the first claw down, it transitioned into a water gun. The force blew him up and onto the opponents back with his left arm stuck in a tight hold.
Letting go of the padded hands, he stood on the arm thrust Pokémon as the momentum caused him to fall down. Both claws spewed with water as he crawled onto the top point. With a gleeful laugh, he repeated smashed his crab hammer's down onto his head without mercy.
It took nearly a minute before the fighting type fell forward. Landing in the puddle created from the previous assault.
"Who di mon?" He asked, waving his claws in a victorious manner whilst on top of his opponent. The crowd erupted in applause which Crawdaunt loved.
Climbing off the arm thrust, the bright expression caused a smile on his own face. Running onto the field, he join both of his Pokémon.
"Hariyama is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "With both his Pokémon still standing, Ash Ketchum is the victor moving onto the top eight!"
She met Ash at the exit of the trainer's tunnel as he left the stadium, a wide smile spread upon her face. As soon as he stepped over the barrier back into the main lobby, she jumped up to him, her arms wrapped around, and she pecked his cheek. His arms lightly wrapped around her back in response.
"Congratulations," she whispered, "I knew you'd do great."
"Thanks Serena." He smirked, steal a kiss on her lips in a flash. "I couldn't have done it without you."
"Don't say that-" she buried her head into her shoulder. Nuzzling into the embrace, his light chuckle made her pull back. "I guess you're going to the centre?"
"Yeah, I need to make sure everyone's in top form before the main competition-" He smirked.
"You know they won't reveal the match ups until the interviews tomorrow-" She returned the expression. "How you feeling about them?"
"Alright... I guess," he shrugged, "the attention isn't really my thing. It's different on the field, I can block them out and just... let myself loose."
"Well, if your stressing-" She pecked his lips a couple more times "-maybe I can help you... destress."
"I like the sound of that." He attempted to deepen her shows of affection.
"Slow down big boy," she whispered, pulling back, "you've got a nurse to see, remember... and I want to go watch Sakura's battle. It's the second to last one."
Bidding each other goodbye with one final kiss, they walked out of the stadium, and she smiled seeing her boyfriend head off with a joyous smile on his face which spread to her own. One of her favourite feelings is seeing him in his element and just enjoying what he's doing. Once he was out of sight, she turned and made a walk across the street of Ever Grande towards the second preliminary stadium.
As she took in the sight of the beautiful city, she couldn't help but notice three familiar faces off to the edge of the city. Shauna, Trevor and Tierno stood with both a Flygon and Charizard out. Turning on a heel, she noticed them climbing onto the large fliers, so she cupped her hands around her mouth
"Hey!" She called out. "Are you guys leaving already?"
"Well... yeah-" Shauna shrugged, moving into whisper so the larger boy wouldn't hear. "Tierno's not in the league anymore. Sticking around would only hurt him even more. We're gonna head home and check in before we end up going our own ways."
"But-"
"Sorry Serena... we'll be supporting Ash and all since he's still in-" she gave her a hug "-we've just gotta get going."
"It's okay." She returned the gesture.
Glancing over her friends shoulder, she noticed the larger boy chatting with Trevor. If she didn't know any better, she wouldn't guess he was just knocked out of the league or anything of the sort. Obviously, he could just be putting on a tough facade but if she were to guess his feelings it'll be... relieved. Ending the hug with her friendly rival, they moved closer to the two boys.
"I'm sorry Tierno..." she offered a sympathetic smile. "I know Ash would've loved a chance to battle you in a full battle."
"Make up for the orange league match huh." He smirked. "It's aright... I don't think I would've been much of a challenge anyway."
"Don't say that-"
"It's true." He cut her off, shaking his head. "I've not been fulfilling my dance style to the top potential. Its why I'm gonna head into the contest circuit."
"Contests?" she quirked an eyebrow up. "I never took you for a coordinator."
"Neither did I but during Hoenn I ran into the coordinator called Clark-" His smile stretched slightly. "He told me how he started off in the league but realised to combine battles with his musical stuff he had to approach from a different angle. Which is why I'm gonna try to compete."
"Where will you compete?" she asked.
"I dunno-" He shrugged. "Probably somewhere I haven't been yet... Johto, Sinnoh... who knows."
"I remember Clark-" she smiled. "We met at couple times... usually when he and May ended up competing together. I never knew he competed in the league before the contest circuit. I'm glad you've got the next steps prepared and good luck. I'm sure you'll take the contest world by storm."
"Heh, coming from a top coordinator that sure means a lot-" he smirked, with a tiny hint of pink in his cheeks.
Bidding them goodbye, she watched the group fly off on Trevor's Charizard and Flygon. Smiling at the sight of them disappearing from sight, she let out a low sigh as she turned back around. A cold emptiness ached in her chest. Closing her eyes, she shook her head to get rid of the feelings.
Holding her device out, she watched the fairy type eeveelution materialised in front of her. A soft smile rested upon her lips as she felt the feeler reach out and gently embrace her hand. With a comforting silence, the two of them continued down the path to the second stadium holding preliminary matches.
"So... it's been a while-" Sylveon started the convo- "since it's been just the two of us, I mean."
"Yeah..." She muttered in response. "We'll need to thank Brock for offering to baby sit the eggs."
"Why didn't Pikachu take him up on the offer again?" she asked.
"He's just being overprotective-" she rolled her eyes. "He trusts our friends with a lot of things... but insists either myself or him are with them. You should've seen Kangashkan's face when she offered to baby."
"Kangaskhan is the most motherly mother whose ever mothered," she replied, a little bemused by the electric type.
"I think after his own experience with his dad... he's just over-cautious-" the fairy type replied, "but speaking of mothers."
"Do we have to talk about this?" she asked.
"No... but we're going to anyway-" she shrugged. "Because I've solved the mystery."
"Mystery?" she quirked an eyebrow up.
"Mystery of why your trying to get an egg of your own, if you know what I mean-" She felt her cheeks heat up at the indication. "And no, it doesn't have to do with... rewarding... Ash's work during the matches. If that was the case, you'd just cook him something up and maybe just a sprinkle for desert."
"SYLVEON!"
Lifting her hands up to her mouth from the verbal outburst. She glanced around and noticed several eyes staring at her before they continued on their way.
"I think your being so affectionate towards him because you feel abandoned-" she continued without a single hesitation despite the outburst. "-abandoned by your mum moving... and it reignited your previous abandonment from your father."
"So, you charge by the hour doc or what?" she sarcastically asked, restarting the walk.
"I could go over how you were surrounded by families with both parents when moving to Kanto or the obvious, moving entire regions... you already said you couldn't remember much of anything from Kalos so it's understandable you'd feel abandoned by him-" she turned to give a smug smirk. "-or... you know... you are holding my feeler. It's kinda designed to read your emotions. Which is why you haven't even looked into flights to Kalos for post league."
"You got it all figured out?" she sneered.
"Hardly... just as far as you've got it understood. Even if you wouldn't admit it to yourself," she replied, "I get why your scared. When you first moved, it was an emotion time following some traumatic stuff. It's why you latched onto Ash... right. And he's too busy enjoying your... rewards... to notice the cry for help underneath. Not that I'm saying he's to blame or anything... he's a guy, they rarely look further than the plain obvious. Not to mention losing someone like Courtney, who you related to in some way and in the manner you did. Yeah girl, you got abandonment bad but that's fine."
"How is it fine?" she felt herself cough with the question.
"Because I'm here for you and so are all the others," she replied, "emotions can't be turned on or off or controlled. I'm feeling a tinge of my own guilt over leaving the eggs for the afternoon."
"But Pikachu is with them, and Brock is great with eggs," she reassured.
"Exactly and while my logical brain knows I needed a break, it doesn't stop my emotions from feeling that way," she replied, "I'm not blaming you for feeling this way. It's a completely valid way for you to feel. But I don't want you to make mistakes you'll later regret because of these feelings."
"Like what?" she asked.
"Like ignoring your mum, which will only reenforce your abandonment feelings-" she replied, "it's a vicious cycle... what's that thing Torkoal says?"
"One often meets their destiny on the road they take to avoid it?" she muttered, feeling tears sting her eyes so she quickly wiped them. "I'm still not going to visit Kalos... it's not my home."
"Neither is Hoenn... and look, your here now." Sylveon turned to offer a smirk. "I'm not saying you should go... but you can at least talk to her."
"Oh look, we're here-" she gestured to the stadium.
Stepping through the automatic doors, she relaxed feeling the cool aircon hit her warm skin. There wasn't a lot of people in the lobby, a few tourists like herself but mostly workers. Glancing up to the screen, she noticed the regular tele-opening zoom in for one of the preliminary matches.
"Welcome back folks welcome to the final battle of the ruby stadium on day four of the exciting Hoenn league tournament!" The announcer declared. "If you look to the field, we'll see our two competitors entering. On the left, we have Sakura Sayo and, on the right, its Georgio Tsutomu both from the Johto region!"
She felt a sense of pride as the pink haired girl walked out of the trainer's tunnel to a thunderous applause. Memories of their original meeting in Johto flood back, it's hard to believe she's now a top coordinator and ready to move onto the top eight of the Pokémon league. While she'll support Ash during any match, they'll end up having, she can't wait to see how far she'll end up making it... maybe they end up being the two finalists to close out the league.
Seeing the screen switch to her opponent, she felt her jaw drop slightly. It was none other than the same Georgio who asked her out just before the opening ceremony. Biting down on her bottom lip, she wished she could be there to support her in case he attempted anything weird or creepy.
"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!"
Holding her two Pokéballs out, her Espeon and Beautifly materialised on the field. Sighing in relief seeing the pair, she relaxed. Her bug flying type floated in place with a sense of grace as her scales sparkled under the sun. While her eeveelution stood tall with the front legs crossed in front of each other.
"Sakura has gone with her graceful Espeon and Beautifly to close out the preliminaries!" The announcer declared. "As the winner of this year's grand festival and subsequently a top coordinator in her own right, she's one of the favourites to win the whole competition! How will Georgio handle this? Let's find out!"
"With Delcatty and Pelipper!" He declared, holding his two Pokéballs out. "Go!"
In a flash of light, the two Pokémon of his she met prior to the opening ceremony materialised on the field. Pelipper was sat opposite Beautifly with a dull expression. While his own feline faced the pure psychic type. With legs spread slightly, he crouched low in a more offensive stance.
"I hope Sakura will be alright," she told her eeveelution through her ESP, "I don't like the idea of her facing him alone."
"Is this because of Drew and him giving off the same sort of Casanova vibe?" she asked, "or are you remembering Melissa from Ash's Indigo league match?"
"I just don't trust him," she muttered, tightening her hand with the feeler in.
"Good job you don't need to trust him then-" Sylveon offered a soothing smile. "Just trust in Sakura... and her Pokémon. I'm sure they can handle him."
Giving a nod at her reasoning, she turned her attention back to the screen. She noticed a dark cloud already forming over the stadium and a light patter of rain hammering down over both Pokémon. Pinching her lips together, she pulled out her Pokédex:
Drizzle: Pokémon with this ability can create rain clouds when preparing for battle. The tough the fight, the stronger the storm
"It's kinda like how Torkoal increases the sun with his own ability," she muttered, putting the device away.
"Heh, I wonder which weather would win if those two were to face each other-" Sylveon asked, with a bemused chuckle.
"Torkoal," they chorused together, both entering a fit of giggles at the shared answer.
"Both sides seem evenly matched having a part flying type and a strong feline known for a wide move variety!" The announcer explained. "Question is which side will be able to pull off a victory and join the others whose already made it into the top eight? Georgio has the field advantage with the rain, but anything is possible and it's all still to play for! I'll tell you something folks, you don't wanna miss this impending battle!"
Tightening her fist, she focused on the screen above. The rain hit the ground and bounced as both sides waited patiently.
"Espeon and Beautifly verses Delcatty and Pelipper!" The ref declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Sakura verses Georgio: Preliminary round four
She tightened her fist as her friends bug flying type took off into the stormy sky. Swirling around in a sort of dance, her scales sparked, making her stand out amongst the rain cloud. Picking up speed, she was soon met by the second duel flying type, who seemed more sluggish in response.
Cutting back down to the field, she watch the normal type dart forward. A pink outline surround his body as he pounced towards the eeveelution.
Espeon's eyes glew bright blue and the rain around her gathered together. A water bubble formed and blocked the path between her and Delcatty.
Georgio's prim Pokémon crashed into the improvised shield and with a spin was sent to the side. Completely drenched, it collapsed over him.
Shaking his wet fur, he took a deep breath. "Light Screen!" Sakura's voice echoed over the field.
A bright yellow box materialised around her body as the opened swung his head. A high-pitched sound wave shot out which was coloured by a pink tint.
Striking the light screen, it passed through with losing a lot of the intensity. Barely effecting the psychic type eeveelution.
Each of the felines formed a purple sphere of ghost type energy in front of their face. Georgio's side launched first but there was a mere fraction of second between them. Each of the shadow balls clashed and cancelled each other out. With both felines stalking the other around the raining battlefield.
Her lips pinched together as she knew the ghost move wouldn't effect a normal type. Narrowing her eyes, she tilted her head to the side.
Delcatty glew with an electric charge. A ring of electricity surrounded his body. Extending out, it sizzled as the rain pattered onto the shockwave. With a loud cry, it expand out over the field, but the light screen blocked it once again with some light sparks echoing off Espeon's own body.
"She's trying to tire Delcatty out-" she muttered mostly to herself. The screen switched to a shot of the aerial clash.
Beautifly shot over a hydro pump from the large-beak Pokémon. Zooming towards the water flying type with speed.
Landing on his back, her long phrobics struck the back of his head. A slight sparkled glittered as she released a leech life.
Taking off from that position, he spread his wings. With a loud wing, a powerful tailwind picked up from behind knocking Beautifly off his back.
Stopping as she caught herself underneath. He spun on a heel and flapped his wings. A powerful gala force blew out, catching the bug flying type. A yellow box formed around her body. Spinning overhead, she just let herself ride on the current, letting herself get carried around.
Opening her wings once more, she swooped around the side of the field. Using her opponent's wind to propel herself on a rebound.
Extending her phrobics once more, a thick white string shot out. Soaring over the field, it struck Pelipper and trapped one wing to his body.
Getting closer, she manuvered around the large bird as he struggled to remain airborne. Wrapping the water flying type up in the string shot.
Diving down, she pulled the water bird down. With her phrobics extended, she shot the end of her string shot. Striking a ring of electricity surrounding the prim Pokémon, it electrified the entire string and travelled up. Turning the large bill Pokémon into an electric-ball.
"Psybeam and Venoshock!" She shouted.
A multicoloured beam of ESP shot up from the eeveelution. Striking the electrified Pelipper, containing and maintaining the prison.
Shooting up from her dive, Beautifly ended up directly above. Firing a blob of purple liquid down, it struck the unstable combination in the air.
Exploding like a bomb, the psybeam helped contain the blast. As it settled, Espeon released her grip, allowing the water bird to fall down onto the floor.
"Pelipper is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "The battle shall continue!"
"Sakura takes the lead with a powerful combination showing why she deserves the title of top coordinator!" The announcer declared. "So now we must ask, how will this battle conclude? Will Georgio be able to make a comeback, or will our top coordinator join the other top eight trainer's?!"
Taking up an offensive stance, a ball of ice formed in front of the normal type's mouth. Erupting out in a beam, it narrowed missed the bug flying type.
Striking the rain cloud over the field, it didn't take long to transition into snow. Cold, white fluffy bits were falling down and hindered her butterfly Pokémon.
"Espeon!" Sakura shouted.
Her starter's eyes glew blue and a wall of ESP formed over all three fighters. Having to hold up the protective barrier, she was helpless to defend herself.
Entering a straight run over the still wet field, Delcatty glew with a pink outline. Getting close to unleash his play rough, he let out a loud cry.
Swooping down overhead, her first caught Hoenn Pokémon shot out blobs of string. While none hit Delcatty, they did make him jump to avoid getting stuck.
Slipping on the wet field, Delcatty fell onto his side. Slashes of air struck his side in rapid succession, causing him to cry out in pain.
The screen cut to a wide shot of Espeon as she manipulated the barrier overhead. Funnelling the snow down directly over Georgio's normal type.
"Get close for a leech life!" Sakura instructed.
Spinning in her flight down, she extended out her phrobics as the normal type climbed out of the snow. Soaring around she went for the back of the neck.
"Keep it away with shock wave!" He shouted.
With a loud cry, sparks jumped off the half frozen Delcatty. Her bug flying type wasted no-time diverting off course and shooting high into the air.
"Now!" Sakura hollered.
Espeon let a hallowing cry as she unleashed a psychic over the half frozen prim Pokémon. The shock wave conducted through the snow all over his body.
With a pain-filled cry, the psychic eeveelution prevented the electricity from extending out over the water or snow. A bright flash blinded them for a brief moment. Letting go of her psychic hold, Delcatty slumped over as both of Sakura's Pokémon took up their original positions.
"Delcatty is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "Meaning the final trainer moving on to the top eight is Sakura Sayo!"
Serena waited outside of the trainer's tunnel until her magenta-haired friend walked out. It didn't take long for the Kimono sister to appear with Espeon by her side. She frowned upon seeing the annoyed expression on her face. She didn't wait to approach the younger girl.
"Hey Sakura, well done." She gave the girl a quick hug. "What's the matter?"
"Oh." She muttered. "Georgio just asked again once when we left the field. Why isn't it enough to just say no once?"
"I dunno," she muttered, rubbing the girls back. Her thoughts briefly went towards May and her current situation with Brendan. Shaking her head, she refocused on the Kimono sister. "Come on, we should get to the centre. I'm sure both of your Pokémon could use a nice long rest."
"Right." She smiled.
The two girls set off from the stadium, with the conversation focused on the top eight trainers moving on. Of course, there's still a slot to be filled but the competition is certainly rounding out to be tough group. While it excited her to see her friends partake in battles, she couldn't help but feel a tiny bit guilty since she'd be supporting Ash the whole way. It's not that she wants Sakura to lose but in a battle between the two of them... that's the trouble with any two trainer's entering the same competition, they could end up in direct opposition.
Reaching the lobby of the main centre, she bid Sakura goodbye as she went off with one of the Chansey to get her two Pokémon treated. Letting out Sylveon, they agreed to go on the hunt for Brock, who was currently looking after both the eggs and Pikachu... who didn't want to leave his unborn kids.
It didn't take her long to make her way through the centre. Walking out into the back fields, she noticed Brock sat with a drink at one of the tables, reading a book. The two eggs were on the table with Pikachu, Sableye and Chimecho involved in some sort of conversation. The former two seemed to be sharing a good laugh while the pure psychic type just seemed annoyed at the two boys.
Reaching the table, Sylveon used her two feelers to wrap around the eggs and lift them down to her level. Her boyfriend jumped down and they started a conversation which caused Brock to look up from his book. A soft smile rested upon his face.
"Welcome back," he greeted.
"Thank you for babysitting," she replied, "I think it was nice for Sylveon to get a break... if only Pikachu took part too."
"Your welcome, and it was my pleasure." He stood up. "All three of them were fine. Here let me show you something."
"Huh?" She blinked as he held up his Pokegear. A video played on the screen of a Manectric running around on a grassy field. It took a few seconds for her to realise the electric type had a metal leg. "Is that-"
"Yeah... Jaco sent me it earlier." He put the device away. "The legs designed to conduct electricity and even use the power he generates to help improve the operating system... like how regular Manectric can use their electricity to speed themselves up. It also can withstand extreme pressure."
"I bet your looking forward to getting him back?" she asked.
"Uh huh." He nodded, ending with a sighed. "Just need to wait for the league to be over."
"If you wanna visit then I'm sure Pidgeot or someone would happily fly you over," she shrugged, "I bet Ash would be happy to take you too. Tomorrow's a rest day and the interviews don't start until tomorrow evening-"
"Thanks, but no Serena." He shook his head. "Manectric still has a lot to do before he's cleared for discharge. I don't want to interfere with his progress."
"I understand." She offered a sympathetic smile. "You know... the way you said you reacted to the whole thing... it reminds me of Pikachu with the eggs."
"Pikapi!" the electric type pipped up from Sylveon's back.
The two friends continued talking for a little time until a cool breeze alerted them to the orange evening sky. Having lost track of time, she stood up and started collecting her things. Glancing around, she noticed Sylveon taking a nap under her seat with both eggs and Pikachu.
"You know, Serena," Brock drew her attention. "I could keep them for tonight?"
"You don't mind?" she asked.
"I've kinda liked egg duty." He smiled. "I mean I helped with Togepi, but this is my first real experience fully taking care of an egg from conception."
"I don't want to impose on you or anything-" she uttered.
"You're not. It's a nice distraction honestly." He reassured. "And I can keep both Sylveon and Pikachu. It'll free you and Ash up tomorrow. I'm guessing you'll be celebrating on his day off battles?"
"We were going to go shopping and pick out outfits for our next adventure," she replied, "if you're sure."
"Of course, I am." He smiled. "Don't worry, with Uncle Brock the eggs will be in good hands."
"Okay... you win. Thank you." She gave him a quick hug. Bidding them goodbye, she set off back towards their room.
As she walked away from the breeder, she felt her stomach bubble as thoughts raced through her head. After each of the preliminary battles she's done something special with Ash but now he's passed the section completely... she has to really step up their celebrations.
It didn't take her long to reach their shared room, which was empty. Letting her thoughts continue, she grabbed the remote and turned on the main league channel with highlights from the days matches playing. Smiling at the familiar sights of the battles she caught, it took a few minutes for it to switch to an update of the top eight trainer's making up the next section of battles.
The images of Ash, Katie and Sakura were joined by both Brendan and Sawyer. Kahili, the Fortree gym assistant was joined by the orange-haired boy whose been hanging out with Brendan... with the final image being someone she didn't recall ever seeing before.
"Be sure to join Gabby tomorrow evening as she interviews our finalists!" The announcer explained. "Starting at six o'clock sharp! It'll also be the place where we see the first-round match ups for these trainers in the first full battles of the tournament! You don't want to miss it!"
She mentally shrugged as she thought about the competing trainers. Obviously, she's supporting Ash, but she really can't wait to see how far Sakura takes it and she couldn't deny Katie being the toughest opponent he might face... while she wants to support Brendan and Sawyer, she's seen enough leagues to see the newer trainers might have above average skill, but she doesn't expect them to make it much further. Same with Morrison from what she's seen.
The real odd ball is Kahili. It's strange enough that they ended up giving spots to the gym assistants but if they needed to make up numbers then it made sense. She just wouldn't have expected one to make it this far into the competition. Kahili must be stronger than her position would suggest.
A slight buzz drew her attention. Using her ESP to locate her Pokegear, she levitated it into her hand to see a message from Ash.
'Back to the room soon. Love you'
Smiling as she put the device down, she grabbed the remote and turned the tele off. Rushing around, she grabbed some of her cloths and made her way into the bathroom. An idea formulating in her head as her heart thumped harder. A smile stretched her lips as she imagined her boyfriend's reaction.
With her hands on her waist, she twisted her body and took in the sight. Instead of the full ranger outfit, she only wore the shorts from it and her top had on a bikini top. Without a lot of time to prepare, she felt the full ranger gear might lose its charm if half proper and rushed.
"Babe!" Ash called from the other room as she heard the door creek open. "It's just me. I'm back."
Smiling as her heart thumbed harder, she spun around. Using a little psychic energy to flick the lock on the door. "Kay! Be out in a minute!"
"No need to rush!" He reassured.
Turning around, she rushed to the sink and checked out her appearance in the mirror. Rushing some ESP through her hair, she added stylish curls into her strands, letting it settle. Picking up the lip gloss, she puckered up and carefully applied the rawst-berry flavoured gloss.
Putting it back down, she turned and walked back over to the door. Unlocking the door, she held the handle and closed her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she pulled it open and stepped out into the main room. Smiling as she saw him in the armchair skipping through channels on the tele, she walked over and leaned over the back of the chair. Stretching her arms down over his chest, she scrunched up his shirt and jacket in her hands.
"Anything interesting to watch?" she asked.
"Now there is." He smirked, leaning up and cupping her cheek. Pulling her down, they shared a passionate upside-down kiss for a little while.
"Now, now," she whispered pulling back as he stood up to meet her. "We need to get you... ready."
"Ready?" he quirked an eyebrow up with a wide grin.
Sending out a wave of ESP from the tips of her fingers, she forced his arms up and slowly walked around the chair. Grabbing the bottom of his shirt, she pulled his top layer off. Discarding of the jacket and shirt, she ran her hand down over his peck, letting him free from the psychic restraint. Her fingers playfully walked over his broad shoulder as she rested her head on the other side.
"You know... I figured you'd be really stressed after the hard-fought preliminaries," she explained, "so are you ready for your reward?"
"Something more than this?" he asked, pecking her cheek, staying close to whisper, "I love the outfit choice, by the way."
"I'm glad." Her belly bubbled with joy. Nuzzling into the crook of his neck, she pulled back and used a light spell of ESP to pick him up once more. Whooshing him over the room, he landed face down on the bed. Using some powers to push herself after him. Landing on top, she straddled his back. Reaching down, her hands rubbed into his muscular back as a pleased groan escaped. "You see, I thought you might appreciate a back massage."
Continuing to perform the actions she learnt from the book picked up at Larvaridge's spa on their last anniversary, she hummed to the pleased noises from her boyfriend. As she continue to massage the stresses in his body, she couldn't help but think back to the conversation with Sylveon.
Biting down on her bottom lip to stop it trembling, she felt tears sting her eyes. Squeezing her hands tight, she crouched forward.
"Serena?" She felt him shuffle underneath to end up on his back. His hands gently held hers as she squinted to look down. "What's the matter?"
"N-nothing." She nearly choked. Removing her hands from his, she reached for his shoulders to continue the massage.
"Come on now-" his hands reached up and pulled her down into a comforting embrace. "It's clearly something... you can tell me."
"I-its just-" she sighed. "I spoke to Sylveon earlier... she thinks the reason I'm doing... this... is fear of abandonment."
"This?" he asked.
"The affectionate... intimate... stuff-" she nuzzled further into his chest.
"Hehehe, you've always been more affectionate than most," he chuckled, lightly rubbing her back. "I don't think it's anything... just you being you... but what do you think? Do you feel like its abandonment?"
"I dunno... what does that feel like?" she asked. "I know I'm angry... with the move a-and... everything she said, made sense."
"Say she is right..." He cupped her chin to pull them out to look at each other. "I think there's an easy answer to it-"
"Don't say it." She grumbled.
"Your mum said she'd like you to visit Kalos once the leagues over." He rubbed his hand up and down her upper arm. "We haven't got any plans for our post Hoenn travels yet. I don't get why your dead set against it."
"Because Kalos isn't my home." She nuzzled deeper into his chest. "I can't remember anything about it... not the people or even our old house..."
"Hoenn isn't your home either... but your here," he whispered. "What about Johto... or the Orange islands. Visiting Kalos won't change anything."
"Please... can we just change the subject?" she uttered.
"Of course." He kissed her forehead. "Why don't we talk about when we do return to Pallet... and you staying with Leaf."
"Your surprised?" she asked.
"You know you can stay at mine..." He whispered. "My mum loves you and-"
"-and can you imagine what would happen if she caught us like... well this." She leaned up to see his cheeks turning a rosy pink. "Not only will this be a good chance to catch up with Leaf but... what can I say... sometimes a girl can't control temptation and right now... your pretty tempting."
"Se-Serena?" His breath seemed to get trapped in his throat.
Using a little ESP to push herself, it carried them back over the bed as she twisted into a straddling position. His back hit the bed rest as his hands rested on her upper thigh, just below the ranger shorts. Cupping his own face, she leaned in and connect their lips once more.
Deepening the show in any way she thought off, she inwardly smirked. Her hands travelled down to feel his developing muscles during the make out session.
A loud rumble caused them to split. Looking at her mareepish boyfriend, she covered her lips to suppress the giggle. "Guess you're hungry."
"Well, we need to eat..." he muttered. "I hate to... interrupt this but-"
She placed a finger over his lips, indicating him to be quiet. "How about we order a pizza?"
"Great!" His face lit up.
"And whilst we wait for delivery..." She placed her hands on his, encouraging him to squeeze her legs. "We can work up a little more of an appetite."
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...