Chapter 97
As Ash and Alice sit at Dragon's Park, enjoying a peaceful picnic, the aftermath of recent events weighs heavily on their minds. Ash, breaking the silence, inquires, "Have you reconsidered your stance on Serena? Given what unfolded yesterday, she's already enduring so much pain."
Alice gazes thoughtfully, her expression betraying a mix of empathy and resignation. "In the past, I might have sought vengeance," she admits. "But our presence alone is a form of retribution for her."
Serena's world has crumbled since the incident. Though innocent of any wrongdoing, she bore the brunt of public scrutiny. Her resignation as Kalos Queen, a decision born from unwarranted guilt, thrusts Aria into an unexpected leadership role. The fallout extends beyond Serena, affecting esteemed figures like Cynthia and Leon, who opt to relinquish their titles amidst public outcry. Only Steven remains steadfast, aided by Luke's unwavering support, in preserving his position as Champion.
With a wistful smile, Ash pauses mid-bite of his sandwich, his thoughts wandering to the broader repercussions of recent events. "It's true, the fallout has rippled through multiple regions," he acknowledges. "The speculation about Alder returning is just one example of the chaos."
Alice, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and determination, interjects, "But perhaps it's time for new beginnings, even in the face of uncertainty."
Ash nods in agreement, setting aside the weighty topics for a moment of respite. "Let's shift our focus. How are you feeling now? After overcoming Violet Depression, are you feeling more like yourself?"
A radiant smile graces Alice's features as she replies, "I feel invigorated, like I've emerged from a long slumber. In fact, I'm so uplifted that I want to dedicate a song to you." With Pikachu and Glaceon adding their musical talents, Alice's voice fills the park, a testament to newfound hope and resilience amidst adversity.
"The whispers in the morning
Of lovers sleeping tight
Are rolling by like thunder now
As I look in your eyes"
Alice hugs Ash and sings, "I hold on to your body
And feel each move you make
Your voice is warm and tender
A love that I could not forsake
'Cause I'm your lady
And you are my man
Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
Ash's smile widens as Alice continues to serenade him, her voice carrying a melodic warmth that seems to harmonize with the tranquil surroundings of Dragon's Park.
Lost is how I'm feeling lying in your arms
When the world outside's too much to take
That all ends when I'm with you
Even though there may be times
It seems I'm far away
Never wonder where I am
'Cause I am always by your side
'Cause I'm your lady
And you are my man
Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
We're heading for something
Somewhere I've never been
Sometimes I am frightened
But I'm ready to learn
Of the power of love."
Overwhelmed by the sweetness of her song, Ash expresses his admiration, "Your voice is truly enchanting. I feel blessed to have it all to myself."
Alice chuckles softly, her eyes twinkling with affection. "You flatter me, my prince. But every note is dedicated to you."
The sound of your heart beating
Made it clear
Suddenly the feeling that I can't go on
Is light years away
'Cause I'm your lady
And you are my man
Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
We're heading for something
Somewhere I've never been
Sometimes I am frightened
But I'm ready to learn
Of the power of love
The power of love
The power of love
Sometimes I am frightened but I'm ready to learn
Of the power of love
The power of love, ooh ooh
(As I look into your eyes)
The power of love (The power of love)"
As Alice concludes her song, the lingering notes trailing off into the breeze, Ash is moved by her heartfelt performance. With a gentle smile, he leans in and presses a tender kiss to her cheek, his words carrying genuine appreciation. "Your song was truly beautiful and touching. I feel incredibly fortunate to be the one you sang it for."
Alice blushes slightly, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "You're too kind, Ash. Thank you for your kind words," she replies warmly, the affection between them palpable.
They resume their picnic, basking in the shared moment of music, love, and quiet companionship, the serenity of Dragon's Park providing the perfect backdrop for their cherished connection.
At the same time, Serena sits in her hotel room, her appearance forgotten in the wake of her shattered image. Lost in reflection, she stares at the blue ribbon before her, a silent testament to her regrets.
"He's right... I pushed him away... I ruined our friendship," she murmurs, her voice heavy with self-reproach.
A soft knock interrupts her thoughts, followed by a familiar voice outside the door, "May I come in?"
Recognizing her mentor Palermo's voice, Serena braces herself for the impending conversation. Despite the anticipated disappointment in Palermo's eyes, Serena knows she must face the consequences. "Come in," she responds quietly.
Palermo enters the room, her expression a mix of concern and understanding. "We need to talk, Serena," she states gently, acknowledging the weight of the situation between them.
Serena's nod confirms Palermo's observation of her tear-streaked face, a silent admission of her inner turmoil. Palermo begins the conversation with a direct question, her tone gentle yet probing, "Serena, I'd like to understand why you were inclined to believe that Ash could be implicated in what seemed like a murder."
Frowning, Serena delves into her complex emotions, tracing her feelings back to her childhood and the transformative journey through Kalos with Ash. "My feelings for Ash have been there since I was young, but they grew stronger as we traveled together. He helped me achieve my dream of becoming Kalos Queen," she explains, her voice tinged with regret. "However, during our journey, I encountered individuals who spoke of Ash killing his mother. It frightened me. I thought I was doing what was right, only to realize I was terribly mistaken."
Palermo listens attentively before raising a critical point. "It seems you didn't consider the possibility that Ash was framed. After all, why would anyone in their right mind kill their own mother?"
Serena's response carries a mix of self-doubt and realization. "I may have overthought things. The evidence seemed convincing, and the motives presented by those individuals sounded plausible... If my mother stood in the way of my dreams, I might feel resentment too." Her words reflect the complexity of her internal struggle and the weight of the decisions she's made.
"But that doesn't justify murder," Palermo insists, her head shaking in disbelief. "Have I ever shared the story of my daughter with you?"
Serena's confusion deepens, intrigued by this glimpse into Palermo's past. "You never mentioned it before," she replies, her curiosity piqued.
Palermo's expression darkens slightly as she reveals a part of her life seldom spoken of. "Before I founded the Showcase, my family's history was steeped in darkness. I married into a family of assassins, and my daughter was groomed to follow in those footsteps. Her abduction by Team Rocket only added to her burden, forcing her to commit unspeakable acts."
A hint of sadness crosses Palermo's features as she continues, "Despite everything, my daughter distanced herself from us. She never sought revenge, not even after her father's passing. Even an assassin, driven by pain and circumstance, wouldn't resort to such drastic measures. Why would Ash, who faced similar challenges, be any different?"
Serena's realization dawns with a heavy heart. "I see now. I have no one to blame but myself for misjudging Ash and causing this rift between us," she admits, her voice tinged with regret. "He has chosen to distance himself from me, and I have to accept the consequences of my actions."
As Palermo's words sink in, Serena's expression morphs from shock to a mixture of guilt and horror. "He might be in a sour mood right now considering what happened during these years, but I'm sure he will heal in the end," Palermo says, her tone carrying a hint of sadness.
Serena's voice trembles as she asks, "And how did you know?"
Palermo's gaze softens, understanding the turmoil raging within Serena. "The truth is, Ash is my grandson," she confesses, her voice tinged with a sense of profound sadness. "And my daughter, the one you thought Ash killed, was a victim of circumstances beyond her control."
The weight of Serena's mistake crashes down on her as the reality of her actions becomes painfully clear. "Then why were you even talking to me?" she whispers, her voice filled with self-condemnation. "I've done such a horrible thing to your family... you should've hated me."
"Serena, I don't hate you," Palermo reassures, her voice filled with understanding. "While it's true that you've made mistakes, I believe in the capacity for people to change. Don't be too hard on yourself. At the moment, Ash has been proven innocent, and you were acting based on what you thought was right."
Serena exhales deeply, a weight lifting slightly from her shoulders. "I suppose so... I feel like I need to seek answers, perhaps visiting the prison might provide some clarity."
Palermo nods in agreement, her expression reflecting a mix of empathy and concern. As she watches Serena depart, a sense of helplessness washes over her. Despite her efforts to guide and support her student, she knows that some journeys must be navigated alone.
As Ash and Alice make their way back to the castle, they unexpectedly encounter Max, accompanied by Norman and Caroline. Ash's emotions churn within him as he grapples with the complexities of their family ties. May, his daughter, is now a traitor, while Max stands before him as a loyal ally and trusted leader in Sevestar.
Norman's words of apology cut through the tension, his regret palpable. "Ash, we're truly sorry for everything that happened to you and for May's actions. If only we had raised her better, perhaps things wouldn't have taken this turn," he expresses, his tone heavy with remorse.
With a thoughtful expression, Ash responds, "But you did a commendable job with Max. You shouldn't blame yourselves for May's choices. Max has told me how you stood by him and believed in him, especially after arriving in this region. I accept your apology, though my trust is reserved for those who've remained steadfast by my side during these challenging five years."
Norman nods in understanding, acknowledging Ash's guarded stance. "Thank you, Ash. We understand," he acknowledges.
Max, sensing the weight of the situation, speaks up, "So, what's going to happen to May? I still care about her, despite everything."
Ash's expression hardens slightly as he considers the inevitable consequences. "Whatever punishment awaits, I hope it serves as a lesson learned," he states firmly, knowing full well that the authorities would likely seek the most severe penalty, a death sentence, given the gravity of May's actions.
After bidding farewell to the Maple family, Ash and Alice return to the castle, where they find their family members gathered. Lillie, Gary, Paul, and Bonnie are also present, engaged in conversation.
"So Lillie, as the Alola Champion and with four of the Trial Captains now in jail, how do you plan to manage?" Mark inquires, concern evident in his tone.
Lillie smiles confidently, her demeanor calm and assured. "There's no need to worry. The Tapus have already chosen their replacements. Harper, Lana's sister, will be the new Water Captain; Mimo, Kiawe's sister, will take over as Fire Captain; Ulu, Mallow's brother, will become the new Grass Captain; and Molayne will handle the Hokulani Observatory trial as our Steel Captain. The Totem Pokémon can also assist in managing the trials as needed."
"Great news," Ash remarks, a sense of relief evident in his expression. "But where is Grandma?"
Eve, who has been quietly observing the conversation, chimes in, "She's having a discussion with Serena, the former Kalos Queen. There have been some complications due to Serena's beliefs regarding the crime you were accused of."
"Alice and I decided that we're not going to kill her considering that she already got her own punishment," Ash states.
"So you're going to forgive her eventually?" Mark inquires.
"Maybe after a lot of years, because I am not going to forgive her right now," Ash responds firmly.
"She is willing to wait for the time you forgive her and become friends again," Palermo announces as she re-enters the castle. Ash bows respectfully. "Grandma, how did the talk go?"
Palermo sighs. "I did my best to reason with her. Right now, she's going to give those people a piece of her mind at the prison."
"I actually don't care what she's going to say to them, considering that all of them are going to be executed after a few days," Ash remarks with a hint of bitterness. "Though I've heard the recording from Golly, I can't believe that was the real reason why they would kill Mom like that..."
"We were also angry when we heard that," Minami adds, voicing the collective sentiment as everyone nods in agreement.
And here is a new chapter, I decided not to let Serena die in this fic, as she knows her errors. The next chapter will be about the traitors' last stand and how Serena is going to get angry at them. I hope you like this chapter.