An ocean of people and Pokémon flood the exterior of a four-story contest hall, one that loosely resembles Parfum Palace due to the giant columns. Fittingly, it is named Palace Hall. The towering skyscrapers in downtown interlock with the sky, watching over the grandeur and pride of this historical district. The morning sunlight pierces through the clouds and crawls in-between towering skyscrapers to gently bathe the location with a crisp, cool warmth. In conjunction, the building softens its stance and embraces the plaza with a pair of curved attachments that are shorter in height. But there are two sides of the coin—this moderately large structure shoves its outer extravagance into the faces of hundreds without apology. Don't look away, because you can't look away, even if it is too busy for your eyes.
Each row of columns is separated by a row where Lucario relief sculptures take center change. Ornamentation is plastered in every nook and cranny, with the largest ones resting in the areas between windows. There are hundreds of windows, each one having curved top with two wall sculptures of Espeon and Umbreon above it. Their front paws are protruding in front of their bodies, creating a harmonious display of symmetrical craftmanship.
Wes can't help but smile over seeing those Espeon and Umbreon reliefs, plus he remembers being dragged into Rui's selfies in Kalos. Begrudgingly traveling abroad with Rui turned out to be a great experience—it expanded his horizons tenfold.
"I'd like the chance to do it again." He glances around at the surrounding structures. "That magazine wasn't kidding when they said Little Kalos is literally Kalos condensed."
The path leading to the plaza and entrance would be great for a lengthy walk and it's lined up with sculptures of Salamence, Baxcalibur, Hydreigon, Dragapult, and Garchomp. They tower over everybody in proud, menacing stances. The grandest of them all, a rendition of Zygarde's Complete Forme with Korradion and Miraidon in their battling forms, lies atop a fountain at the plaza's center.
There's a large park on both sides of the grandeur entrance pathway. Parks have a psychic grip on Wes, for he can envision taking a stroll with Rui here. Rui and him spend countless hours in parks, walking with their Pokémon getting to know each other. Rui spoke on and on like an annoying Chatot but she radiated a electromagnetic pull that ensnared his attention. He wanted to run to Mt. Battle but he was also curious about this crazy person.
Another chance has been gifted to him and he's not gonna mess this up. He's going to watch Valen win this contest without hiding this time. If Rui's crazy ass can't scare Valen and his circle off like a pack of stampeding Paldean Tauros, nothing will.
He wants to be free like that flock of Pidgey soaring through the unclouded sky. He wants to fly away and see the whole world someday.
"…I'm probably going to get asked about what I'm wearing." Wes sighs and rubs his forehead. "I'm not adept in these types of situations."
Rui thought that this white, sleeveless trench coat looked "badass" on him. The pointy shoulder pads played a role in her choice, for some reason. The collar's wider and larger than his blue trench coat, but he'll get used to it again. The black shirt underneath is as plain as a Patrat, but gotta have something underneath the trench coat.
To his right, a group of guys and girls are rocking to Ryme's chart-topping collab with Guzma. Rui's been jamming to that too and he'll admit that it's a banger. However, they suddenly pause the music and join a large crowd on the left.
"Looks like a battle's going on over there."
Big cities are usually great at leaving enough space to battle but Angel City takes it to another level. Sure enough, Rosa's Hydreigon is battling a male trainer's Wigglytuff. Valen's Golisopod, Hilda's Umbreon, and Melanie's Swampert are cheering them on. He admires Rosa's boldness in using Hydreigon—a quadruple weakness to Fairy-type isn't worrying them in the slightest. That incoming Dazzling Gleam is met by Hydreigon weaving around like a race car.
Rosa's just called for Flash Cannon and an metallic orb forms in each of the dragon's mouth. Rosa's opponent calls for Moonblast, but Hydreigon manages to fire off the combined beam of energy into Wigglytuff first. Wigglytuff does manage to land an Ice Punch but Wes can see that Hydreigon's still got more fight left in him.
"It's time for this play to end!" Rosa swings her hand from left to right. "Rock em and soak em with Hydro Pump!"
A swirling torrent of water jets out of Hydreigon's main mouth. The stream blasts into Wigglytuff and knocks it to the ground. Hydreigon flips the script and wildly shakes around around in a happy dance.
Rosa raises a fist and leaps into the air. Her opponent recalls his Wigglytuff and offers her a handshake, to which she accepts.
"Battle battle!" Hilda beams a winsome grin. "I wanna battle too!" She jumps with her palms folded. "Let me have a turn, Rosa!"
Rosa places a hand on her hip and wags a finger with the other. "Tsk tsk tsk, you'll have to wait until after the contest."
"Hehe, I'm such a silly person!" She spins to face their silly boy. "What's your take, hm?"
"I can't decide between perfection and perfection." Valen shrugs with his eyes closed. "I've got no take."
"Pick me because I have perfect fashion sense." Melanie runs a hand through her long hair. "Just look how I stylish I am in this red velvet jacket."
"We're wearing Guzmani jackets, so you got overruled~" Rosa wags a finger and reaches into her bag. "Noooooooow eat your heart out, cousin Nemona!" Rosa winks and makes a peace sign for the phone camera. "Tee-hee, you can't surpass my win streak!"
Apparently, he's invisible because none of them notice him. Whatever, he'll just fall back. He's kinda enjoying the excitement.
Rosa and Hilda are now snapping selfie after selfie, something that Wes has had to endure more than once. Valen's been dragged into it and his face displays a mixture of happiness and bewilderment. About ninety nine percent happiness by his estimate.
Melanie's here too and while she's greatly amused by this, there's a gleam in her eyes. Valen's brought up how he had a trainer rivalry with her for a period of time. It was super casual but even a friendly rivalry has that desire to win. Wouldn't that…not even said desire affected their intimate friendship?
Rosa and Hilda press their backs together, the latter's phone held by Melanie for recording purposes….but is Valen planning a surprise? Having been dragged to Sunset Studios and PokéStar Studios by Rui kinda paid off—the "confusion" looks more like an acting audition. What else can he make of the smirk Valen just flashed?
"We're a heroic duo, give us just one chance!~" Rosa and Hilda tip their headwear down. "And the future will decide—"
"If there's a hero buried deep inside!~" Valen spins a Poké Ball then grabs it. "I wanna be a hero!~"
Rosa happily gasps and interlocks her fingers above her right shoulder. "He joined us!" She giggles over Hydreigon's happy dance and Serperior's chimelike cry.
"I knooooow, he's been getting less shy about it!" Hilda hops up and down with her palms folded flat. "This is so awesomeeee!" Her Umbreon mimics the hopping.
Valen shrugs and snaps a photo of himself fist bumping with his Golisopod. The arthropod turns it into a bro hug but he doesn't mind that in the slightest.
"Trying to show off for the lady Pokémon, huh?" Valen smirks. "Give em proper game like Salamence and Luxray."
Golisopod cackles and pretends to raise a sword above his ahead. The knight shall heed the call of his master and give the opposition a beatdown.
"Save it for later." Valen pats Golisopod's head and tilts his own towards the structure. "You'll get to show off to a lot more people inside."
Rosa and Hilda are watching this with adorable faces but Team Skull's Valen is not gonna get flustered by their grins this time. …Maybe…probably not…these two are unstoppable. Regardless, they're right on the money. He's been getting less nervous and flustered thanks to his amazing support system.
Melanie stays quiet but she caresses his shoulders. There's a gleam in her eyes, one that screams her adoration for him. Her Swampert pats his Golisopod on the back, then Swampert takes a page from Golisopod and exchanges a bro hug with the arthropod.
"I changed my mind because I'm not invisible," Wes calls out.
Valen smirks. "Then why didn't you say anything sooner?"
"I didn't feel like it."
"That means you are invisible, Wes." Valen pulls Rosa and Hilda in for a double side hug and kisses them on the lips. "And these two are the opposite of the invisible." A forehead flick is like a Pidgey on Kanto's Route 1. "Three."
Melanie shows off at her azure jean jacket. "As the fashion queen of the squad, I decree that your trench coat goes well with your black shirt." She places her hands on her hips and flips back her long hair. "I like this more than the blue one but either works for you."
"Guess even a plain old shirt can get some praise."
"Well, you seem like a minimalist when it comes to fashion." Melanie loosely clasps her hands behind her back. "I don't give my two cents without considering the person in question."
Wes chuckles and closes his eyes. She nailed it with ease, just like Valen said. These people are crazy, really crazy. Accepting Rui's one thing, but they accepted him into their circle just like that. Him.
"Join us in watching the contest." Hilda tilts her head with a silly grin. "Rui said you promised her that you'll hang out with us more."
Wes' eyes widen and his face turns pink. "….Uh….I…don't know what you're talking about…really…honestly."
….Dammit Rui. You took a rain check on purpose so he'd find himself in this awkward situation, didn't you? This is the third time she's done this recently. Tch, even he's a circus clown on certain occasions.
Here comes Silver. Wes came to believe that he has been the worst at hiding obvious feelings. Along came Silver and that crown was taken away. Let him have it. Kris and Leaf are with-they just darted ahead of him. The duo of them exchange a double high five with Rosa and Hilda.
"You don't seem like a contest guy," Wes remarks. "Yet you came again."
"Humph, neither do you." Silver closes his eyes and smirks. "Don't get the wrong idea—I'm here to do recon on potential compeition in the pro circuit."
"Just admit you both love company," Valen interjects. "You two aren't slick."
Before Valen can say anything else, a certain somebody soars in on her Noivern. She leaps off of the Pokémon and jumps on his back, sliding her arms around his neck.
"Skyla Howahkan of the Unovan Elite Four reporting for duty!" she salutes. "Are you ready for take off, captain?"
"Affirmative." He still digs how she changed her surname to reflect her Apisi region roots. "If I could keep you here in Calvana, I'd do it in a flash."
"Uh uh uh, I take off faster than you.~" Skyla giggles and pokes his nose. "And it's bold of you to assume that I wouldn't stay here if I could."
Valen turns his head and waves at Noivern, who happily screeches in response. Why Skyla needs an entrance like that remains a mystery. It's also a mystery why Rosa and Hilda are gesturing permission for a kiss to her hand without him asking.
Skyla jumps off of Valen's back and salutes again. Skyla's arms go back around his neck and she rests her head against his chest. He rests his palms on her back, silently relieved that she didn't call him a Teddiursa bear. Just let him evolve into a Ursaring already.
After a few moments, try to let go of each other but a prolonged side hug wins. Neither wants to be the first to let go—the same thing has happened with Rosa, Hilda, and Melanie. They give great hugs filled with warmth and care so it's all good.
When Champion Napoleon of Kalos saw the opulent interior of this performance hall in 1795, he declared that he wanted the designer, Claude-Louis de La Sycamore, to work for him. Barberini Stadium, Poussin Hall, and this place had the finest exteriors and interiors outside of Kalos, at least in the eyes of this legendary trainer.
Fast forward to today and it still looks exactly the same, barring some moving around of furniture and extra additions. The costliest furniture makers were tasked by the structure's flamboyant architect to make the most ornante and extravagant pieces they can. There are no buon frescos or sculptures inside this one but it's all good in Valen's eyes. For the interior, Claude-Louis wanted to capture the simplified soberness of the emerging Neoclassical movement. It's a nice contrast to the Rococo exterior.
There's more coordinators this time around—he's got extra time to chill before his performance. The sofas around him, plus the one he's slouching on, glimmer with their gold frames. The gold is contrasted by the darker red upholstery. The marquetry's got the Fuecoco and Staryu lines weaved into the crown-like ornamentation. Definitely reminds him of the guest room after mom had her way with it.
The big screen provides footage for those in the lobby and a female coordinator from Didacus City is the current contestant. Her Infernape is using double flame blades to slice the mud balls launched by his Golem teammate. Contests where the performance round requires two Pokémon can be even tricker than a solo one.
"This bunch of performers are raring to go," he murmurs. "I can feel the passion filling up the air."
Kris and Melanie are discussing Valerie Versace's latest releases. He's got no idea where Skyla, Silver and Wes are but that's normal. Jacques seems to be running late but he'll look for him if need be.
To his right, Hilda and Rosa are discussing about the latter's second cousin being a proud member of the Rosa Force. Nemona also follows the ventures of Hilda and him, hence why Rosa's winking at him and giving Hilda an aerial high five. She's close to graduating from Naranja Academy, a school built in the Gothic era with a Siscianesque feel to it.
"Don't get lost in your thoughts, airhead."
Skyla's giggling can be heard from behind him. She's been a treasured companion for years—not even their fling ending changed that.
"Come on." Valen gestures for her to sit. "Land."
"Aye aye!" Skyla leaps over the headrest and onto the seat. "I've landed, captain!" She moves closer to him and he wraps an arm around her. "Try not to let go this time."
"No promises but I don't want to let go either." Valen kisses Skyla's right hand. "Rosa and Hilda are okay with me doing this."
"You also did this on the day we met." Skyla giggles and pokes his nose. "Sneaky sneaky airhead.~"
"Well, it was once a traditional greeting towards a lady." Valen shrugs, joking, "I guess I'm a modern Renaissance man."
Both of them check out the big screen and his eyes light up at what he sees. The use of an Alakazam's Psychic and a Gigalith's Stone Edge to create a loose representation of the Great Pyramid of Ra is badass. It's different enough but what if this coordinator from the Osiris region…what if he actually did it?
What if he inspired another coordinator?
His stomach is fluttering like Beautifly, his heartbeat and pulse are racing on a drag strip. He's not even doubting himself. He can feel the thoughts but they lack power over him.
"I told you that you rub off on people, didn't it?" Skyla winks and pokes his nose. "Your passionate personality's a Magnemite."
That coordinator's entered the lobby and he quickly notices Valen. The performer grins and holds up a phone. The paused footage contains Gardevoir's most recent performance of La Nuit Étoilée and that says it all. He, Le Moissonneur Noir, is an influence on at least one fellow coordinator.
That's what fun about contests—he gets to see amazing performances from people who travel across the land to be here. Even those who don't make it to the Battle Stage still should get praise for trying.
"Pssssst, look at those three." Skyla tilts her head towards Rosa, Hilda and Kris.
Through their phones, Hilda, Rosa and Kris are checking out a Venusaur sculpture that's been highly praised. Brassius Rodin, a Paldean artist who's also a Gym Leader, crafted it using five materials: wood, ivory, leaves, flowers, and branches. Kris and Hilda seem more enamored with it but Rosa has that same bright face.
The difference is that Rosa also looks a little reluctant but he understands why—contemporary art stretches the definition to an even broader contest. It can feel too broad at times, but art is art. Rosa still respects what she doesn't find personally appealing and he loves that fact about her.
"Hiiii!"
Leaf's voice catches his attention and he joins Skyla for a high five with her. He's gotta interact with Leaf more—he doesn't want a repeat of the first time she visited Calvana. He's doing much better now and a friend like her deserves the person best he can be.
"Leaf, I remember Rosa telling me that you're also a coordinator." Valen leans forward, his smile inviting and placid. "She's shown me footage of a performance with your Ninetales and Espeon." He gives her a thumbs up. "You're quite good at the art."
"Aw, thank you!" Leaf makes two peace signs. "I wanted to enter but I wasn't able to register in time," she admits. "I got sidetracked in Sunset Studios buuut there's plenty more to come!"
"That's the spirit." Valen offers a handshake, to which Leaf accepts. "If we face each other in the future, may the best coordinator win."
"I'd love to have you as a friendly rival!" Leaf rests her fists on her hips. "We'll both win because we're both awesome!"
"Heh, you're not wrong."
He checks the big screen again—Asgard's getting the crowd pumped up with a swirling combination of Flygon's Sandstorm and Roserade's Magical Leaf.
Out of the corner of his eye, Valen catches Jacques chatting up Wes. The latter's starting to learn that people do want to be his friend and that there's light at the end of the tunnel. As for Jacques, he's able to attend because he finally gotten a break from filming. He's close by so he must've overheard at least some of what Leaf and him discussed. He'd like to ask him to help Leaf out with her movie career goal but it doesn't feel appropriate at this moment.
"You didn't the enter contest and you're late," Valen teases. "Got swamped by your fans again?"
"I get a pass because I taught you how to be a classy man," Jacques jokes and pats Valen's back. "You've done well."
"Merci."
"Rain check." Skyla tilts her head towards the large wall television. "He's up."
Hilda and Rosa join forces to give Valen a good luck sandwich hug. ….Fine, he'll stomach being a Teddiursa bear for them…plus Melanie and Skyla.
Before Valen can began walking, Kris offers him a high five and he gladly accepts it.
"I can't wait to see you rock in person!"
"You won't be disappointed." He shows off the Team Skull logo on the back of his suit jacket. "How could you be when I'm the big bad coordinator?"
Behind Kris is the red-haired "tough guy" himself. Valen exchanges a fist bump with Silver, Wes, and Jacques. With a squad like this, he always wins in at least one way.
Art is a broad term but no matter what or where it is, it always brings people and Pokémon together. That alone should've been enough to spark Valen's drive for contests—he gets to express his passion for art and see his Pokémon dazzle the crowd. It took a trip to Hoenn to get him going again but he's here and that's what counts.
He stops to take a deep breath, the concoction of bright lights and a ecstatic crowd beckoning to him. Each performance is a treasure shared by companions, each performance demonstrates the puissance and allure of art.
"I keep it classy day and night.~" He strides towards the large opening with big steps. "I'm still a rider while I'm being polite.~"
The mind can be one's greatest ally and worst enemy—it can conjure up precious memories or a parasite of paralyzing uncertainty. That parasite had to scurry back to the blackest of shadows—it couldn't halt the beaming ambitions of a straight rider and his Pokémon.
Has that bright beam brought along friends? Seems like it, for all of these ceiling spotlight represent the rising sun over his glorious future.
Lisia wants the crows to say hello to him. He waves at the crowd and Lisia's words are being taken literally by a large throng of his fans. Even Rosa, Hilda, and Skyla joined in. Lisia really knows how to crank the vibes up to eleven.
Hilda, Rosa, and Skyla press their backs together. "Come on win for us, come on win for yes!" they wink. "You're born to be a winner so show us whatcha got noooow!"
The three of them look at Melanie with teasing smiles and Wes leads the others in providing backup. Melanie grunts and looks away with her arms folded but she does shoot a big, tender smile in his direction.
Valen would give them a thumbs up but he's got a better idea. He takes five to kiss Rosa and Hilda, making his female fans go wild with excitement. He doesn't want to leave Skyla and Melanie out, so he gives both of them a quick embrace.
"It would be rude for a gentleman to ignore these fine ladies but I'm sure you understand." The crowd's Uproar attack pumps through his veins as he yanks a Poké Ball off of his belt. "Here comes the empress."
He chucks the ball up and out comes Gardevoir. She lets out a angelic cry and bows to the crowd. She lovingly stares at Valen, then she folds her arms and smugly grins.
"My dear Gardevoir, present your artistic mastery once more." He snaps his fingers. "Bring to life a scene that would be praised by Monsieur Raphael himself."
Gardevoir cackles and her eyes glow light blue, the ensuing turbulence around her making her elegant gown ripple. She uses her powers to conjure up outlines of Xerneas and Yveltal. Yveltal stares deep into Xerneas' loving eyes, as if the gazelle just plopped a kiss onto his head.
The chef adds a topping via Moonblast and manipulation of Heal Pulse into stars. The luminescent orb and its companions hover over Xerneas and Yveltal, beaming down upon their intimate moment by the gentle ocean. It's based off of Raphael's A Kiss Infused With Geomancy, a painting so famous that you can buy Teddiursa bears with the artwork within a heart for your special someone.
Gardevoir powers to levitate over her scene, beaming her cocky posture and expression for all to see. She conjures up a throne, then she sits down and crosses her legs. She adds a crown for good measure.
"Let's make it double." Valen grabs another Poké Ball. "Arise, phantom of the night."
Up goes the ball and out comes Gengar, who does a backflip. Gengar twirls on one foot and happily waves at the crowd. Gengar bows to Gardevoir, then they exchange a high five.
"Make dramatic use of raw darkness like Caravaggio."
Gengar fires a purple and black sphere and Gardevoir merges it with her Psychic blanket. This makes the light fade until Gardevoir throws a Moonblast to the equation. However, the orb only illuminates Xerneas and Yveltal's moment and his two Pokémon. The light directs the viewer to what he wants them to see.
Taking a beautiful subject and turning it into theatre, that's all the crowd needs to see. He'll never match the humanistic grandeur of a Raphael or the raw drama of a Caravaggio, but he can do is try to carry some of the vibes.
The scene slowly dissipates, like two lovers running under the setting sun. The audience roars with the fervor of a thousand Exploud. Gardevoir bows and Gengar waves, then they approach him. Gardevoir gives him a peck on the top of his head and Gengar pats his back.
Even Wes seems to have been enthralled by the performance but is trying to hide it. Melanie decides to flip the script and lead the squad in teasing him.
Kids seem really eager to approach Gardevoir and Gengar. He'll let the kids approach his entire team later. Whether he's wearing Team Skull attire or not, he's a gentleman to the core.
"What better way to end a line of amazing performances than another amazing performance by a class act?!" Lisia spins. "Remember that I don't want to hear or see you giving up, hun!~" He blows kisses at the crowd. "Believe in yourself and have a lot of fun!~"
That kind of wholesome encouragement is why he loves having people like Lisia as friends, on top of having two balls of fluff as his romantic queens. He does wonder if it would be cool to call Melanie and Skyla his platonic queens...in public...or at all.
A peek at the screen reveals the first Battle Stage matches. He'd love the chance to face his old rival in the finals.
In 1291, a Salamence unleashed its might and soared to victory over a Paldean trainer who was undefeated up until that point. That Salamence's trainer was Ameriguccio di Vezzano, the man who'd become a legendary Dragon-type master.
It's a story Valen has loved since childhood and now he's in a loosely similar situation. This guy from Paldea may not be undefeated, but he's quite the formidable opponent. Nevertheless, Golisopod and Salamence will come out on top. Perhaps this torrent of frisson is what Ameriguccio felt?
Salamence's swerving in all directions to avoid being hit by Weavile's Blizzard, while Golisopod is hanging on as a powerful bolt from Kilowattrel ensares. Some of the snowballs graze the tri-colored dragon but he hangs onto his aerial balance. The arthropod isn't so lucky, for he's struggling to bounce back.
"Hang in there, victory shall befall us!"
Way ahead of you, Golisopod thinks. If somebody thinks he'll throw in the towel, they're a fool in his eyes.
"Salamence, channel the flames of passion into a mighty Flamethrower!"
Salamence launches a blue stream of swirling flames that strikes both Weavile and Kilowattrel. Weavile stumbles backwards while flames encircle and singe Kilowattrel.
"Valeeeey sweetie, win this for me!" Rosa waves like she's using Extreme Speed. "I love you, Valey sweetie!"
Golisopod was ready to fight when those same words took Valen by surprise at the Calvanian Conference. Valen and the team ended up winning it, marking two succesful attempts to first place.
"She means 'us' and 'we,' Val-Val!"
As if his trainer didn't know that already. Here comes Kilowattrel, its body spinning within Aerial Ace's oval aura. It's a move too fast to evade, but Weavile with Ice Beam is another story. Salamence does a somersault to avoid the frost white beam and Golisopod crosses his arms. Their fierce glares of determination pierce the air like a knife.
Golisopod is pushed backwards by Kilowattrel and its white orb, his feet scraping the battlefield. However, the super-effective attack is of no concern to him. In fact, he's cackling because the crackling avian is within striking distance of Salamence. Here comes a Volt Switch but as Rosa's Eelektross would say, the bird will be the one getting a jolt.
"The sky warrior's Iron Tail shall counter, the valiant knight's Poison Jab shall strike!"
Golisopod's right claw is encased an ominous shade of purple, whereas Salamence's tail is blanketed with a metallic glow. Salamence weaves like a wave and does another mid-air somersault, avoiding the flurry of lightning bolts. Salamence slams his tail into the Kilowattrel, sending it careening into the battlefield.
Meanwhile, Golisopod's found himself in a close-quarter skirmish with Weavile and its Shadow Claw. Weavile tries to force Golisopod to block its right claw, which glows pitch black. Golisopod deflects a barrage of slashes with left arm. He slams his other arm into Weavile's midsection and slams it into the ground.
"Iron Tail on Weavile!"
Salamence swings its glowing tail into Weavile, sending it crashing into its teammate. The dragon's roar makes the ground tremble—it's his way to signal that the type disadvantage still hasn't dimmed his might.
"Bring the chills with Ice Fang!"
Salamence's teeth become encased in icicles and he chomps down on Kilowattrel's left wing. However, he's taken by surprise when a Ice Beam from Weavile careens towards him. The frost white beam strikes his right wing, forcing him to release Kilowattrel bit but it fails to knock him out of the sky.
Golisopod apologizes for being too slow but Salamence won't hide that he goofed. Nevertheless, Salamence boasts that that attack "will be the furthest that Weavile will get and the reason lies next to Rosa—how can I lose with such a beautiful Milotic cheering me on?"
"Brandish the mighty sword of Liquidation!"
Golisopod raises his sword up high like a valiant knight. He leaps into the air, ready to defend the castle. The Weavile tries to land a blow with Blizzard, but he slashes through the barrage of snowballs with the precision of a chef in the kitchen. Golisopod then leaps into the air and runs his aquatic blade through both Kilowattrel and Weavile in a horizontal manner.
Kilowattrel falls from the air, while Weavile staggers in random directions. Kilowattrel gets back up but both Pokémon hit the ground right when the timer runs out.
"That's my boy," Valen pets both of their heads. "Well, boys."
His opponent recalls his two Pokémon and it warms Valen's heart to see that proud smile. Valen offers a handshake and his opponent accepts before the latter takes his leave.
Salamence wants to pout because he could've looked more cool in front of his sweet lady. However, Valen's moving on to the next around and he said the three special words. More than enough for him, but he'd still like to make Milotic swoon. He'd also like more pets and the bouncy ball from Valen because he's been a good boy.
Salamence grins upon hearing Rosa's Milotic squealing that she loves him and he's so awesome and majestic. He roars the same thing right back at Milotic, adding that she's "gorgeous on both the outside and inside." In response, Milotic flutters her eyelids and uses her tail to blow a kiss at him.
He doesn't understand why Milotic's begun to call him " boo" when he's not a Ghost-type but he won't argue. Golisopod cackles that "boo" is a human slang term of endearment but he's still lost. Whatever, he'll always be there for his sweet lady.
Melanie beats everybody to the punch, much to Rosa and Hilda's playful dismay. She slides her arms around Valen's neck and he pulls her in.
"We're all proud of you," Melanie states in a soothing, firm tone. "Keep it up, bestie."
"Valey, I can't take it!" Rosa's eyes are closed and her palms are under her chin. "Our Pokémon are so CUTEEEEE!"
It's time for Super Detective Rosa to see whom Valey's facing next. Oooh, a musician from the Sinnoh region. Dawn's brought this guy up in the past.
The big screen also reveals that Ragnar's also moving on to the semi-finals. Will Valen and him have a re-match today? A finals between them would be awesome.
Butterfree flutter inside of Hilda's Umbreon as she weaves around both people and Pokémon in the lobby. She feels weighed down, it's like the entire Viridian Forest is in there. Her face is bright red and her legs quiver as she approaches Valen's Luxray. There's a bag of cheese puffs clenched in-between her teeth but she nearly drops it.
Luxray helped Valen to make it into the finals of the Battle Stage, which means her electrifying baby boy deserves a present. Gardevoir went down with the opposing Empoleon, leaving her boo at a disadvantage. The way he danced around to minimize the damage he'd take from Rampardos to ensure…it was so amazing. He held off the onslaught long enough for Valen to win via points.
If that had taken place outdoors, the afternoon sun would've focused on him and his majestic figure. Luxray's super cool… handsome…dreamy…stunning…but they shared a kiss a few days ago! She wasn't shy then, so what's going on?!
A giant mouth pops up right behind her, startling her into jumping forward. Eeeek, a big scary movie monster just-not funny! Not funny at all, Hydreigon! Stop dancing and laughing!
Why did Rosa's Hydreigon have to startle her like that?! He's not even scary, just look at that happy dance for proof! Another Pokémon seems to want to pull the same trick on her. It won't-Luxray! Eeeek, she wasn't prepared! She forgot to strut like a human model!
Luxray accepts the cheese puff bag and he chuckles over Umbreon's freakout. He purrs a "thank you" into her ears and kisses her cheek. Back to cosplaying as a Flareon for her but she got a kiss from her boo.
It doesn't matter how flustered Umbreon gets if her boo shows her affection. Her baby boy stays on her mind, he's the prince of her dreams.
"Hehe, good job!"
Luxray and Umbreon bask in Hilda's relaxing pets. Another win for both, much to the delight of Jacques' Tsareena and Valen's Gardevoir.
Upon being asked if she's been kicking butt beyond contests, Gardevoir just crosses her arms and smirks. This causes Tsareena to close her eyes and giggle. Gardevoir boisterously laughs and the two high five each other.
Behind them, Jacques' Sylveon is happily jumping up and down. She's also demanding that both Jacques and Valen pet her more. She squeals when she receives pets and belly rubs. Upon seeing this, Melanie's male Pyroar calls her "a winsome scoundrel who melts hearts." Gardevoir and Tsareena want to go "aww" at Sylveon, but they also find "posh" Pyroar amusing. Do they smile or do they snicker?
A quick peek reveals that Valen's now talking to group of fans and human children are making Salamence's pride swell. Valen's got the gleam is his eyes that Gardevoir and her teammates love to see. It occurs when he gets to talk about his passions—these fans are interested in learning more about that human named Marcantonio Matteo da Caravaggio.
Humans from centuries ago attract and inspire humans of the modern day. It's rather interesting and Pokémon aren't immune from attraction to human art either. She wanted to be as cool as Leonardo da Vinti's Mona Gardevoir and carry the grace of Jorgel van Eyck's Singing Gardevoir.
After the fans thank him and depart, Hilda hops into the seat next to Valen but changes her mind a few seconds later. Perhaps she plans to take photos with what humans call a cell phone? Why do humans take these selfie things in the first place? It can't be a mating ritual in this instance. Humans have weird rituals.
Hilda directs a playful oeillade his way and blows a kiss. She pulls out her phone and runs a hand through her dark brown hair.
"Thought you can escape me, hm?" She takes a photo of herself winking. "It must be fun knowing you hit the jackpot."
"Is it fun or is it an honor?" Valen leans forward, his elbows resting on his upper legs. "If Michelangelo carved sculptures of you and Rosa, Trainer and La Pietá di Yveltal would be surpassed by a tie in beauty."
"Hehe, you called me the prettiest girl in Nimbasa City on the day I became your agent."
"Beautiful in mind, heart, and appearance." Valen's chill with Hilda yanking him off the sofa. "Can't beat perfection, right?"
"Sorry boys but I'm taaaaken.~" Hilda makes a peace sign and takes another photo. "So no, I don't want your number.~" One more photo, this time with her back turned. "No, I'm not gonna leave Val-Val so go.~"
"What can I say?" Valen shrugs with a lopsided grin. "I'm too good at this."
"My mom said it best." Hilda interlocks fingers with him, her gaze brimming with adoration. "'A big wallet can't beat a big heart.'" She looks down at the ruby attached to her diamond-lace necklace. "The price of this doesn't matter to me—the fact it's from you is why I wear this everyday." Rosa's the same way and he even got one for Melanie, who wears it just as much.
She learned quickly that Val-Val can put his money where his mouth is—there were rich boys who seemed to only be interested in her looks but Val-Val made them all look super lame. One time, he came across one of those rich boys trying too hard to play one of Alfonso Vivaldi's compositions to impress her. While the other boys were roasting the wannabe composer, all Valen did was sneak a Crobatman action figure onto her lap and went poof.
He bought her Unovan Noire, a game sold out wherever she went, only two months after she became his agent. Two months later, he wouldn't leave her side when she had a fever. That's just a few of the countless instances where he was the sweetest thing towards her.
Valen and her sit down again, only for Rosa to plop herself onto his lap. She turns her head to wink at him, then she blows a kiss. Hehe, she picked up that habit from Rosa.
Valen places a hand over his heart. "Sois tranquille, mon cœur!" He chuckles and wraps his arms around her. "Un autre qui est beau dans l'esprit, le cœur, et l'apparence!"
"Tee-hee, we got you!" Rosa high fives Hilda. "We're the cutest too!"
Noooow, she must check out her cousin's win streak via Smeraglegram! Out comes her cell phone again and her smile's now smug. Battle Queen Rosa's win streak won't be toppled by Nem-how is she down by three wins?!
Rosa narrows her eyes and tightens her fists. She needs to stop being playful because this is super serious business. There's no time for fun…just kidding! Tee-hee, it's too much fun!
It dawns upon Rosa that Nemona must've been watching the battle...but who did she root for? A quick direct message confirms she was rooting for both, making Rosa's sunny grin grow even wider.
"Rise and shine." Melanie flicks Valen's forehead. "The finals are starting after the usual ten minute break."
Rosa checks the big screen with Valen and Hilda. His opponent's none other than Ragnar Asgard Phoenix—Blastoise triumphed against that Torterra.
Valen receives a double sandwich hug from Rosa and Hilda. He fist bumps Melanie Wes, Kris, and the others. His mind's being soaked in a river of content—he's satisfied with his progression and grateful for the support .
He begins walking towards the battlefield's entrance, waving at fans and fellow coordinators. He won't let the darkness of doubt obstruct the light of determination. He'll grab that doubt and beat it down without ever letting up. You wanna see what Armageddon looks like? He's gonna show you and he'll show you with class.
…Wait, that last one made little to no sense. Whatever, it's time to fight. He'll battle everyday to claim his rightful place.
Sois tranquille, mon cœur=Be still, my heart
Un autre qui est beau dans l'esprit, le cœur, et l'apparence!=Another who is beautiful in mind, heart, and appearance!