In the soft morning light filtering through the curtains, May lay in peaceful slumber. The quiet of the room was gently disrupted by Ash's soft moans, a sign of his gradual awakening. As May slowly opened her eyes, she found herself met with the sight of Ash. She offered him a soft smile in return, acknowledging the warmth that lingered in the air. Ash, still emerging from the realm of dreams, shifted slightly and rubbed the sleep from his eyes.
"Good morning," May greeted him with a gentle tone. Ash, blinking as reality settled in, hesitated with his response.
"M-May..?" he began, slowly realizing that the visit from the night before was, in fact, not a dream. Undeterred, May maintained her smile, the morning sunlight casting a soft glow on her features.
"Good morning," she repeated, her voice a soothing melody. Ash, now fully conscious, attempted to piece together the events leading to this moment.
"Did you actually sneak in again…?" he inquired, his words trailing off. In response, May leaned in with a playful twinkle in her eyes, pecking his lips tenderly. The gesture was both familiar and new, a sweet exchange in the quietude of the morning.
"Oh, take a guess," May teased, a soft giggle escaping her. Ash, his cheeks tinged with a blush, struggled to find words.
"When did you…? I-I mean did we..?" he stumbled, his thoughts a mix of curiosity and embarrassment, wondering just how much of what he remembered was a dream and how much was real. May chuckled, a melodic sound that filled the room with a comforting energy.
"No. But I'd love to if you're offering," she playfully suggested. Ash's face turned a shade deeper, caught between surprise and bashfulness.
"Maaaaaaaay!" he exclaimed, the pitch of his voice betraying his flustered state. May giggled, a musical sound that danced through the air. She gracefully hopped out of bed, the morning light catching the tousled waves of her hair. As she reached for her top, she playfully glanced at Ash, who instinctively looked away.
"You're sweet," May remarked, a warm smile on her lips.
"I'm not about to peep on a Dragon controlling Ninja..." Ash, still averting his gaze, mumbled in response. May pecked his lips again, a gesture that carried both affection and reassurance.
"For you, I'll allow it," she whispered, her fingers gently ruffling his disheveled hair. Blushing, Ash struggled to find words, his embarrassment evident.
"...I'd still rather not..." he mumbled, a smile playing on his lips. May continued to tease, ruffling his hair once more before expressing her love.
"I love you," she declared with a genuine warmth. Ash took a deep breath, now more at ease, and returned the sentiment.
"I love you too," he replied, the words carrying the weight of sincerity. May shifted the mood as she put on her top once more, her playful demeanor giving way to a more grounded request.
"Do I get a dance tonight?" she inquired, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Ash, relieved by the return of a more familiar request, chuckled.
"Finally...a normal request..." he remarked with a lighthearted tone. May joined in his laughter, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
"I'll ease you into it," she teased, a playful smile on her lips.
"Great..." Ash responded, a hint of sarcasm lacing his words. May, undeterred, wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug.
"Can I take that as a yes to the dance?" she asked, her voice filled with playful excitement.
"Yes," Ash replied, his tone reflecting a mix of resignation and affection.
"Good," May said, her smile widening. As she began to pull away, Ash couldn't help but scratch his head nervously. "I have a few things to take care of before the party. I'll see you then."
"Alright..." Ash nodded, a smile playing on his lips. May, not one to follow conventional exits, planted a final kiss on his lips before heading toward the window. "Or you could use the door..." Ash suggested with a wry smile. May, perched on the windowsill, grinned at him.
"And what fun is that?" she quipped. With a playful giggle, she hopped out of the window, leaving Ash in the room filled with the lingering warmth of the morning encounter. He sat up in bed and stretched the fatigue out of his arms. Pikachu, curled up nearby, yawned and stretched, his small frame radiating an undeniable charm. Ash greeted his electric partner with a smile.
"Hey buddy."
"Morning." Pikachu returned the smile. Ash, however, revealed a hint of exhaustion as he spoke.
"I appear to have picked up an intruder in my sleep." he chuckled, referencing the unique lady that had just departed. Pikachu yawned once more, shaking out his fur with a nonchalant air.
"I'd get used to it if I were you. After she's officially crowned Princess tonight, it'll be permanent." he reminded Ash. Ash sighed, a mixture of resignation and weariness evident in his demeanor. "What's wrong?" Pikachu inquired, raising an eyebrow.
"Nothing. She's just exhausting," he admitted with a chuckle as he stood up from the bed. Pikachu, ever perceptive, nudged him gently.
"You do love her, don't you?"
"Yeah." Ash nodded. "I mean yeah sometimes I just wish she was a little more mellow, but it doesn't change how I feel about her."
"But you know mellow is not who she is," Pikachu chimed in, understanding the nature of May's spirited personality.
"I'm not asking for a massive downgrade," Ash added with a sheepish grin, aware of the impossibility of changing May's vibrant character. "Just maybe a little more normality in our lives moving forward."
"Well, maybe being an official Princess will help. Though I imagine she'll still be spending plenty of time in your room," Pikachu suggested, a playful glint in his eyes.
"I have no doubt there." Ash chuckled, acknowledging the truth in Pikachu's words. Pikachu nuzzled against Ash, a comforting gesture that spoke volumes of their close bond. Ash reciprocated by gently petting Pikachu, a silent acknowledgment of the shared understanding between them.
"It'll all be okay," Pikachu reassured, purring contentedly. Ash's smile softened, the weight on his shoulders easing at Pikachu's comforting words.
"I know it will."
"Good." Pikachu smiled back, their shared connection and unspoken camaraderie a testament to the strength of their friendship.
Later on in the day, around sunset to be exact, the kingdom bathed in the lovely warm hues of the fleeting sunlight. Inside the castle, Dawn wiped the sweat from her brow as she swung open the door to her room, revealing May outside, waiting with anticipation.
"Well?" she asked her lady-in-waiting.
"It was a massive time crunch, but I pulled it off," Dawn announced.
"Amazing! Thank you, Dawn!" May grinned.
"Come see for yourself." Dawn invited her inside, and they approached a display stand. Dawn revealed her masterpiece. Displayed before them was a regal dress and veil combination – regal yet noticeably more comfortable than the initial ballgown design. However, one big thing appears different from their previous conversation.
"Where's the rest of it?" May examined it skeptically, pointing towards the exposed middle of the dress. Dawn, wearing an innocent smile, gestured toward a nearby box.
"Ah, right. The choker is in the box there." she teased.
"You know that's not what I meant." the brunette insisted.
"I have no idea what you mean," Dawn responded with a feigned innocence. "This is what you wanted and what I presented. A dress with circulation fundamental to the design. Pink skirt, orange top, gold embroidery, and a light middle." She smirked, emphasizing her point. Realizing the exposed midriff must've been payback for rejecting the first dress, May sighed, a small smirk forming.
"Well played. I think this friendship will work out just fine." May chuckled, impressed at Dawn's sneakiness and revenge. Nevertheless, she took the dress and headed to get changed, leaving Dawn to sit and wait. Once May reemerged in the new outfit, Dawn greeted her with a smile.
"You look gorgeous," Dawn complimented sincerely.
"It is lovely... it'll just take some getting used to," May admitted, blushing slightly as she played with the flowy skirt in her hand.
"It suits you well," Dawn reassured her.
"You're not joking about that at least?" May asked, seeking confirmation. Dawn shook her head.
"I'll cave in; I'm glad you protested the other dress. This one is way more you." She smiled and fitted the choker around May's neck.
"I really do appreciate all the work on this, Dawn. Thank you." May expressed her gratitude.
"Of course, M'lady." Dawn playfully curtsied.
"One step at a time. May is fine." May sweatdropped. Dawn smirked, bringing May over to a mirror.
"See? A knockout," Dawn complimented with a smile.
"I'll take your word for it... I'm not exactly a judge of Kingdom fashion." May chuckled nervously.
"Well, it's true that you don't usually see outfits that are this breathable." Dawn playfully noted.
"Well, then I suppose it does fit in an odd way. I'll never be the kind of Princess people usually see." May admitted.
"Now you're getting it." Dawn encouraged her with a smile. "If you're gonna be one of us, then ya gotta wear something appropriate but different."
"Well, I still wouldn't go getting used to it. I have no intention of wearing dresses every day." May smirked.
"I'm not sure it's entirely an option." Dawn teased.
"I can be very persuasive." May asserted confidently.
"I'll come up with a dress design that everyone will agree to later." Dawn grinned. May smiled a little and Dawn suggested, "For now though, why don't we go see the King and Queen?"
"Alright..." May agreed, though still a bit nervous it seemed. Coming to terms with the fact that the King and Queen were her parents was by far the hardest change she had been adapting to since moving into the castle. She knew it would get easier with time, but she wished she could get to that point quicker. Nevertheless, she followed Dawn out of the room and headed to the ballroom.
In the ballroom, King Norman and Queen Caroline were overseeing the last of the preparations for the party. The hall was devoid of any decorations because, per May's request, the party was going to be held in the Kingdom Square. Since the new Princess didn't quite feel ready to host an indoor party. Dawn was the first to enter, drawing the attention of the royal couple.
"Yes, Dawn?" Caroline asked.
"Distinguished Majesties, I present to you Princess May Maple," Dawn announced with a flourish, gesturing towards May. May, wearing the specially crafted gown that Dawn had meticulously designed, stepped into the room. A faint hint of unease marked her expression. Caroline couldn't contain her joy, her eyes welling up with tears as she gazed upon her daughter's transformation.
"Wow," Norman whispered as he took in his daughter's new appearance.
"Heh...don't get used to it...I have no desire to wear something this fancy every day." May assured them, still feeling a bit self-conscious as she attempted to downplay the extravagant attire.
"I believe it...don't worry we won't force you to," he promised her.
"Still...you look so beautiful," Caroline whispered with a genuine smile. Norman, equally surprised and pleased, couldn't help but nod in agreement. May, humbled by the compliments, expressed her gratitude.
"Well...thank you," May said, her smile revealing a mix of humility and appreciation. Dawn, eager to explain her design choices, stepped forward.
"I wanted to make sure she had something event-appropriate but still more her style than normal," Dawn explained.
"Well, you succeeded," Norman commended her efforts.
"I most certainly agree," Caroline concurred, her eyes still reflecting pride and joy.
"Well, is everything ready?" May asked, eager to partake in the celebration.
"Just about," Norman reassured her, his smile reflecting the anticipation of the moment.
"Alright," she replied with a determined nod. Norman's smile deepened, a silent approval of the young princess who stood before him. The two ruling royals then excused themselves and headed outside towards the town square. The girls followed them and as May took a moment to collect herself, Dawn stepped closer, offering a reassuring touch.
"It's gonna be alright," Dawn assured her, sensing May's nervousness.
"I hope so," May admitted, her gaze filled with both anticipation and worry.
"Worried Aura boy won't like you anymore, now that you actually look like a Princess?" Dawn teased, attempting to lighten the mood.
"Among other things," May confessed with a nervous chuckle. Dawn encouraged her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"Take a deep breath," Dawn advised, offering a reassuring smile. May followed her advice, inhaling deeply. "There you go," Dawn said with a supportive nod. "Better?"
"I guess," May replied, her nerves still present but somewhat subdued.
"You're gonna be fine. I promise," Dawn assured her with a warm smile.
"Thanks," May responded, a genuine appreciation in her eyes. They approached the edge of the square and May could hear the Kingdom's citizens whispering excitedly as the King and Queen took their positions on the stage, signaling the commencement of the celebration. The two of them were still hidden from the crowd for the time being by a large curtain, so May could make her grand entrance in a moment. With one more deep breath for courage, May decided it was time to face the night.
"Ready?"
"Let's do this," she declared, taking a final glance at herself in a nearby window reflection. Dawn nodded, standing by her side as they stood in their place and awaited the festivities to begin. As they waited, Janine gracefully hopped down to join them from a nearby rooftop, catching May's attention. May looked over, and a warm smile crossed her face as she admired her sister's chosen attire—a unique combination of clothes that reflected the best dress attire that Janine had access to.
"Looking good sis." she smiled.
"You too." May grinned. The sisters exchanged smiles, the strength of their bond evident as they embraced in a hug. "I'm really glad you're here."
"Glad to be here," Janine said with a smile.
"By the way, I think Gary will like your outfit," May remarked casually as she smirked. Janine raised an eyebrow in response.
"Why are you so hung up about that?" she demanded, attempting to hide a blush.
"Because I think it's cute that my stoic ninja sister has a thing for a palace guard," May teased.
"I do not have a thing for him!" Janine retorted, her tone defiant but her red cheeks betraying her feelings. May couldn't help but snicker at her sister's reaction.
"May I remind you that you giggled and blushed? You of all people?"
"I was caught by surprise!" Janine tried to defend herself.
"And saving him a dance tonight?" May continued, playfully needling her sister. Janine shot her a glare, clearly not amused by May's teasing. May attempted to stifle a laugh, realizing she might have pushed Janine's buttons a bit too much. "There's no harm in trying something new, sis," May offered, her tone gentle.
"Yeah, yeah," Janine grumbled, though a small smile betrayed her stoic facade.
May's smile persisted as the trumpets of the guards suddenly began, announcing the beginning of the celebration was upon them.
The town square was ablaze with an array of colors, the lanterns casting a warm and welcoming glow over the assembled crowd. Princess May, returning to her kingdom after years of being kidnapped and brainwashed, found herself surrounded by the eager faces of her people.
"Big crowd..." Janine observed.
"No kidding," May replied, her eyes widening as she took in the sight of nearly the entire kingdom in attendance. As she absorbed the enormity of the moment, her loyal Glaceon gently pawed at her, drawing her attention. May looked at her partner, and Glaceon offered a reassuring smile. May responded with a small smile of her own, attempting to mask the nervousness that was beginning to settle in.
"Don't go pale now," Glaceon playfully advised.
"Huh?" May questioned, puzzled by Glaceon's words.
"You've tamed dragons!" Glaceon reminded her, smiling proudly.
"I guess but..." May hesitated. Glaceon continued to smile, providing silent encouragement. May sighed and managed to summon a small smile in return.
"But?" Dawn wondered.
"Well, I'm just not really looking forward to the big announce—" May began, her words cut off as her father, King Norman, took the stage.
"Good people of this kingdom, it is with great pleasure that I welcome you all here on this day," King Norman announced, his voice echoing through the area. "A day that we feared would never come... the day that our daughter, Princess May, came home..." May gulped nervously as her mother, joined her father on the stage.
"We prayed that this day would come," Queen Caroline added, her eyes shining with emotion. "And then not only did she return, but she worked to save the entire Kingdom from the Dragons. Truly, we all owe her our lives." May's anxiety deepened as the spotlight shifted to her. She exchanged a quick glance with Glaceon, who continued to offer support. The royal couple continued to express their gratitude to the crowd.
"Now, we celebrate not only her return but the lives she spared," King Norman declared.
"Please help us welcome back, Princess May Maple of Hoenn," Queen Caroline announced, motioning for May to step forward. May nervously approached the center stage as the crowd erupted into applause. She gave a slight bow to her parents, who beamed with pride. Queen Caroline gently placed a sparkling tiara on May's head, and King Norman smiled warmly. Facing the crowd, May took a deep breath. The intensity of the moment was broken when she spotted Ash, who was staring at her with his jaw hanging open. Having caught him with such an expression, she relaxed a little and finally smiled, turning to address the crowd in full.
"Thank you all so much for coming. I may be royalty now, but I have no intention of making this speech any longer," May declared with a wry smile. "Let's get to partying!" The crowd erupted into cheers, and May, now a princess, led the way into a night of celebration and revelry, leaving behind the nerves of the royal announcement as she hopped off the stage and began walking through the crowds of people who were now enjoying the festivities.
The lively atmosphere of the celebration continued around them, with the crowd buzzing in excitement. As May gracefully navigated through the throng, Ash remained captivated by her presence. His friend Gary, noticing Ash's fixation, playfully nudged him.
"You're drooling, man," Gary teased. Ash blinked, shaking off his stupor. Gary rolled his eyes, offering a piece of advice, "It's also impolite to stare." Despite Gary's words, Ash couldn't tear his gaze away from the beautiful Princess. He continued to watch May as she effortlessly interacted with the guests, a smile gracing her lips. Gary sighed and decided to leave Ash to his own devices. "Good luck, man." As May made her way through the crowd, she noticed Ash staring and smiled at him. The sight of her smile seemed to deepen Ash's trance. Eventually, he found himself face-to-face with May, who, with a hint of amusement, questioned him.
"Something on your mind?"
"U-Uh…Hi..." Ash stammered, still caught in the spell of the moment.
"Hi." May smiled and greeted him back. Ash continued to stare blankly, prompting May to wave her hand in front of his face, breaking his reverie. "Ash, are you in there?"
"Wow..." Ash mumbled, his mind seemingly in a daze.
"I'm not sure I've ever seen you this flustered. And I've seen you flustered a lot." May sweatdropped.
"S-sorry..." Ash chuckled nervously, scratching his head with a deep blush. "You're just…"
"Just?"
"H-Hot…" he mumbled, blushing an even brighter red. A soft smile played on May's lips as Ash stammered. Grinning, May leaned in and kissed his cheek. The unexpected gesture left Ash blushing even more, his smile growing.
"Well, thank you." May smiled back at him.
"Can I, uh..." Ash hesitated as he offered her his hand, "Have that dance?"
"I'd be delighted." May's smile widened. With a soft smile, May accepted Ash's offered hand. The two of them made their way to the dance floor just as the band struck up a new song. The rhythm of the music encapsulated the magic of the moment as they took their positions. The enchanting melody seemed to settle Ash down as he confidently took May's waist in his hand. May responded with a soft smile, placing her hand on his shoulder as they began to dance in perfect harmony, moving in sync with the rhythm of the music. Ash couldn't help but smile, his gaze fixed on May. As they danced, May teased him, "So you like the dress, huh?"
"You could say that..." Ash blushed deeply, stammering.
"I wouldn't go getting too used to it, dear," May added, chuckling.
"Dear?" Ash questioned, intrigued.
"Trying out new pet names. I get the feeling you don't want to always be Aura Boy." May shrugged playfully.
"Heh..." Ash grinned, appreciating the light banter.
"I got plenty more time to try them out," May remarked, her smile infectious.
"That you do," Ash agreed, returning the smile. "But…"
"But…?" she wondered, caught off guard by his comment.
"You love Aura Boy right…?" he questioned her.
"Yes." May nodded, wondering where he was going.
"Well then…that's what I want to be. Your Aura Boy." he declared, surprising her.
"Really…?" she asked, almost breathless for the first time in her life.
"Really…as long as you'll promise to stay my Ninja Girl," he added. May was quiet for a moment as she processed his request. Finally, a smile lit up her face and she nodded.
"You've got yourself a deal Aura Boy."
"Good." he smiled back, pulling her body closer to his as they swayed to the music. As they continued to dance, May broached a different topic with a mischievous smile.
"So, is what I've heard true?"
"About what?" Ash inquired.
"About Aura Guardians," May clarified, referring to a conversation she overheard. "I remember Riley telling you about just how strong the Aura Bond is between a Guardian and his wife."
"U-Uh…" Ash sweatdropped, caught off guard by the unexpected topic and blushing hard at the implication.
"So is it true?" May teased, giggling.
"I mean..." Ash hesitated, searching for the right words. May giggled, and Ash couldn't help but smile nervously. "We're not married... so..."
"But we are in love," May pointed out, her gaze tender.
"Yeah," Ash admitted, blushing.
"Are you saying such a thing is off the table?" May teased, her eyes sparkling.
"I didn't say that," Ash replied, grinning. May smiled, satisfied, and then impulsively kissed him. Ash reciprocated, deepening the kiss, and soon they were lost in the intimate dance of their lips. May moaned softly, and Ash responded in kind, their connection deepening with every passing second. Eventually, Ash pulled away for a breath, both of them panting. May smiled softly,
"Hope that becomes a regular thing." she requested.
"Heh..." Ash chuckled, and May joined in with a giggle. "I think we can find a way to make that happen."
"Good." Smiling affectionately, May confessed, "I love you so much."
"I love you too," Ash replied sincerely. May rested her head on Ash's shoulder, and he held her close, whispering, "And I always will..."
"Aw..." May blushed a little at his sweet words. Their embrace continued, surrounded by the joyous atmosphere of the celebration, lost in the magic of the moment and the love they shared. The conflict between them was finally at its end, but the promise of more chasing, adventure, and love was firmly before them. And neither one of them could wait to experience it.
The End
