The sun beat down on the lush meadows of the Unova region as Ash, Iris, and Cilan continued their journey, unaware of the impending encounter that would soon disrupt their peaceful travels. They had just stopped for a lunch break near a quaint flower garden, its vibrant colors a stark contrast against the clear blue sky.
Iris stretched her arms above her head, taking in the fresh scent of the flowers. "Ah, it's so nice here! These flowers remind me of home."
Cilan nodded in agreement, his eyes scanning the neatly arranged beds of blooms. "Indeed, the floral arrangements are quite exquisite. It seems like the perfect spot to enjoy a meal."
As they settled down, a trio of familiar figures approached from the opposite side of the garden. Moira, Mona, and Cher—better known as the Flower Garden Troupe—stepped into view, their expressions a mix of determination and mischief.
Moira, with her confident smirk, led the group. "Well, well, if it isn't Iris and her traveling companions. Fancy meeting you here."
Iris's eyes narrowed as she recognized the trio. "You three again? What do you want now?"
Mona stepped forward gracefully, her tone surprisingly gentle. "We're not here for a battle this time, Iris. We've come with a proposition."
Ash, always eager for new challenges, looked curiously at the Flower Garden Troupe. "A proposition? What kind of proposition?"
Cher, the quietest of the three, finally spoke up. "We've been observing you, Ash. And we think you have a talent that we could use."
Iris couldn't hide her confusion. "Talent? What are you talking about? Ash is a Pokémon Trainer."
Moira chuckled, her eyes fixed on Ash with an unusual intensity. "Oh, we know that. But have you ever considered cross-dressing, Ash?"
Ash blinked in surprise, not quite grasping Moira's suggestion. "Cross-dressing? Um, not really..."
Iris interjected fiercely, her temper rising. "What's that got to do with anything? And why are you even interested in Ash?"
Moira's smirk widened. "Because, my dear Iris, we believe Ash here would make an adorable addition to our troupe. Imagine the audience's reaction when they see him!"
Cilan raised an eyebrow, intrigued yet cautious. "I must say, that's quite an unexpected proposal. But Ash, do you even want to join them?"
Ash scratched his head, considering the idea. "I'm flattered, but I think I'll stick to being a Trainer."
Moira's expression turned mischievous again. "Very well then, how about a challenge? If Ash can defeat us in battle, we'll leave you all alone. But if we win..."
Iris crossed her arms defiantly. "What? What's the catch?"
Moira grinned devilishly. "If we win, Ash has to join us. And maybe even take one of us out on a date."
Iris fumed, her eyes flashing with indignation. "That's absurd! Ash, you can't agree to this!"
Mona stepped forward calmly, addressing Iris directly. "Iris, this doesn't concern you. It's between us and Ash. Let him decide."
Iris clenched her fists, her voice sharp. "No! Ash is not some prize to be won in your silly games!"
Cher spoke up softly, trying to ease the tension. "Iris, maybe you should let Ash make his own choice. He seems interested in the challenge."
Ash nodded, his determination clear. "I accept your challenge, Moira. Let's do this."
Cilan looked worriedly between Ash and the Flower Garden Troupe. "Are you sure about this, Ash? It seems like a risky proposition."
Ash grinned confidently. "Yeah, I'm sure. It'll be a great battle!"
Moira clapped her hands together, pleased with Ash's acceptance. "Excellent! Here are the rules: it's a 3-on-1 battle, but only Ash can battle for his side. He can use up to three Pokémon, while we will use our aces: Cinccinoette, Lilligantette, and Roseade."
Iris gritted her teeth, finding the conditions unfair. "That's ridiculous! Ash, you can't possibly win against all three of them alone!"
Moira chuckled, enjoying Iris's frustration. "And there's more, Iris. If Ash wins, we'll admit you're the best and disband the Flower Garden Troupe."
Iris's eyes widened in surprise. "What? Seriously?"
Moira nodded, her tone taunting. "But if we win, Ash belongs to us. It's as simple as that."
Ash took a deep breath, his mind made up. "I'll do it. Let's battle!"
