Ash and Goh trudged through the scorching sands of the Desert Resort, the blazing sun beating down mercilessly. Their destination, the Colossus Ruins, lay deep within the arid expanse, promising adventure and discovery. However, the relentless heat and frequent sandstorms posed a formidable challenge.
"Man, this heat is no joke," Ash muttered, wiping sweat from his brow. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, nodded in agreement, its fur matted with sweat.
Goh glanced at his Rotom Phone's map. "We're still a good distance away from the Colossus Ruins. We need to find some way to deal with this heat or we'll never make it."
As if on cue, a sudden gust of wind whipped up the sand around them, creating a swirling wall of grains that stung their eyes and obscured their vision. The boys instinctively shielded their faces, trying to push forward despite the abrasive storm.
"We need to find shelter!" Ash shouted over the roar of the wind.
They stumbled through the storm, barely able to see a few feet ahead. Just when it seemed like the sandstorm would never end, they spotted a figure in the distance. As they drew closer, they realized it was a dark-tanned, muscular woman clad in a vibrant, belly dancer-like outfit. Her attire, known as a Gerudo woman outfit, was both practical and stylish, designed to withstand the harsh desert conditions while allowing freedom of movement.
"Welcome, travelers," the woman greeted them, her voice carrying a soothing calm despite the storm. "I am Villia. You seem in need of some assistance."
Ash and Goh exchanged wary glances but nodded. "We need something to protect us from the heat and sand," Ash explained. "We're trying to reach the Colossus Ruins."
Villia's eyes sparkled with amusement as she studied them. "I have just the thing," she said, gesturing to a nearby tent filled with an array of colorful garments. "These Gerudo outfits are perfect for desert travel. They'll keep you cool and protect you from the sand."
Goh's eyes widened as he saw the belly dancer-like outfits. "You want us to wear... those?" he stammered, a blush creeping up his cheeks.
Ash, who had cross-dressed on occasion before, still felt a twinge of embarrassment but was more focused on their goal. "If it helps us get to the ruins, we'll do it," he said, though his voice wavered slightly.
Villia smiled, clearly entertained by their reactions. "I assure you, these outfits are very effective. And besides," she added with a mischievous glint in her eye, "I think you'd both look quite cute in them."
Goh's blush deepened, and he hesitated. "I don't know... wearing girl clothes in public... it's kind of embarrassing."
Ash put a hand on Goh's shoulder. "I get it, Goh. But we've faced worse things than a little embarrassment. Let's just go for it."
After some more convincing from Villia, who was practically giggling with delight, Ash and Goh reluctantly agreed. Villia handed Ash a blue version of the outfit and Goh a red one. They retreated behind a makeshift curtain to change, the fabric of the outfits surprisingly comfortable and lightweight.
When they emerged, Villia clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, you both look absolutely adorable!"
Ash's face was flushed, but he wore the outfit with a surprising amount of ease, his past experiences helping him manage the discomfort. Goh, on the other hand, fidgeted nervously, feeling the eyes of the desert wind on him.
"Pikachu, what do you think?" Ash asked, trying to lighten the mood.
"Pika pi!" Pikachu cheered, giving a thumbs-up.
Goh glanced at Ash and felt his heart skip a beat. Despite his own discomfort, he had to admit that Ash looked surprisingly natural in the outfit. The blue fabric contrasted nicely with his tanned skin and dark hair, and there was a certain confidence in his stance that made him look... well, kind of cool.
"You look good, Ash," Goh mumbled, trying to hide his own blush.
Ash grinned, the compliment easing his own embarrassment. "Thanks, Goh. You look pretty good yourself."
Villia nodded in agreement, her eyes twinkling. "Now, you're ready to face the desert. These outfits will help you stay cool and protected from the sandstorms."
As they stood there, feeling both grateful and slightly awkward in their new attire, Ash cleared his throat, breaking the momentary silence. "Um, Villia, we really appreciate your help with the outfits, but how much do we owe you?" he asked, glancing at Goh for support.
Villia waved her hand dismissively, her laughter echoing in the desert air. "Oh, there's no charge for two such adorable travelers," she said with a smile. "Consider it a gift from one adventurer to another."
Goh breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for Villia's generosity. "Thank you so much," he said, bowing slightly.
Ash grinned, feeling a surge of relief. "That's really kind of you, Villia. We'll definitely have to repay the favor somehow."
Villia's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Well, if you insist on repaying me, how about treating me to lunch next time we meet?" she suggested, her tone playful.
Ash, always one for a joke, raised his hand enthusiastically. "I'll do it!" he declared with mock seriousness, causing Goh to glance at him with a deep blush. "Not it!" he added quickly, realizing the implications of his statement.
"Ash!" Goh exclaimed, his face turning a shade of crimson that matched his outfit.
Villia burst into laughter at their exchange, thoroughly entertained by their antics. "Oh, you two are just too adorable," she said, wiping away a tear of mirth. "I look forward to our lunch date then."