Summary : A group of friends register to take part in the Kalos Pokémon League. On their journey, they'll learn how difficult the road to success can be, and what a terrible conspiracy is lurking in their region. With their ambitions challenged and their lives threatened, they'll need to pull together and outdo each other to achieve their goal.
The story features material from the Pokémon X/Y video games, anime and manga. But there will also be a lot of new stuff, making this adventure take place in its own unique universe. Some of the license's characters will undergo different development, while others will remain true to familiar territory. Several serious topics will be tackled (but not too violently).
Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions or if you'd like to share feedback with me. Have a good read.
Chapter 1 — Let's set off for Adventure !
The sun had just begun to rise over the picturesque town of Vaniville, casting a warm golden glow upon the tranquil streets. In the heart of this peaceful rural haven, Shauna, a lively and spirited young trainer, emerged from her cozy home, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Today was a momentous day, a day that would shape her journey in the Kalos region.
Shauna bounded down the cobblestone path, her footsteps echoing through the serene morning air. With a skip in her step, she made her way towards her neighbor and dear friend, Tierno. As she approached his house, the sound of rhythmic beats and electric guitar reached her ears. Tierno was an ardent fan of Roxie's rock tunes, and when he played it at full volume it echoed throughout the whole vicinity.
Curiosity piqued, Shauna turned the corner and found herself in Tierno's verdant garden. There, amidst a vibrant burst of flowers, stood her feisty friend, showcasing his impressive dance moves. His body moved with fluid grace, perfectly in sync with the energetic melody that pulsed from a nearby speaker.
Beside Tierno, his loyal partner Squirtle joined in the impromptu performance, matching its trainer's enthusiasm with nimble footwork and twirls. "And here I thought I was the early Pidgey. Dude, you never stand still, do you ?" Shauna chuckled, shaking her head in amusement. "You're more fidgety than a Hitmontop."
Tierno's infectious grin widened as he paused his dance routine. "Shauna, good morning !" he exclaimed, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow. "Gotta keep the rhythm flowing, you know ?" Squirtle, panting happily, trotted over to Shauna, its blue eyes shimmering with delight.
The brown-haired girl returned the greeting with a warm smile, rubbing the blue turtle's shell affectionately. "Sure, pal, it's in your blood. I see you and Squirtle are in fine form today. Are you ready for the big day ?"
Tierno's eyes sparkled with anticipation, giving his cute buddy a fist-bump. "Absolutely. Today, we finally get to register for the Kalos Pokémon League. I can't wait to see all the new trainers and Pokémon we'll encounter on our journey."
Shauna's excitement mirrored Tierno's. "I know, right ? It's gonna be amazing. Oh, speaking of which, have you seen Jude ? I thought he was staying with you."
Tierno chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Jude ? Well, you know how he is. He couldn't resist the urge to start training bright and early. He's probably out there somewhere, putting in the work with his Pokémon."
Shauna playfully nudged Tierno's shoulder. "I see, as usual he has a knack for disappearing when he's focused on something. He could've waited for me… It's boring to train alone, innit ?"
Tierno chuckled, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Well, maybe if you managed to pry yourself out of bed earlier, you would've caught up with him. You know Jude doesn't waste any time. Anyway, while we wait for him to return, how about we drop by Serena's house ? I'm sure she's up by now."
Shauna nodded eagerly. "Sounds like a plan, let's go. But first, you should turn off that din you call music. Hardly sure all our next-door chaps relished being woken up by Roxie's sweet voice," she added, noting the few disgruntled locals casting accusatory glances in the bold dancer's direction.
"Ah... Oops. Sorry, folks," he replied sheepishly, immediately muting the sound. Then he invited his little hard-shelled Pokémon to sit on his shoulder, which it gladly obliged.
Leaving Tierno's exuberant garden behind, the two friends strolled through the familiar streets of Vaniville Town. The cozy houses and neatly trimmed yards were bathed in the early morning light, their colorful facades a testament to the warm community that thrived within.
Not far away, wrapped up in her sheet, Serena was still snoozing like a Slowpoke. Dazzling rays of sunlight streamed through her bedroom window, gently nudging her from the realms of slumber. But before her drowsy mind could fully comprehend the new day, an unwelcome interruption shattered the tranquility. With a sudden burst of energy, her mother's Glameow leaped onto her bed, meowing loudly, and pawed at her sleeping form.
"Ugh, Glameow ! Can't you let me sleep in peace ?" Serena grumbled, pushing herself up and rubbing her eyes. Her hand settled on the cat Pokémon, whose fur she stroked tenderly. Even though it occasionally bothered her, she cherished it deeply.
Her mother, Grace Gabena, peeked into the room with an amused smile. "Good morning, sleepyhead. Time to wake up and seize the day."
Serena blinked, the remnants of sleep still clouding her mind. Then it hit her—the excitement of the day ahead. She swung her legs over the edge of the bed, her enthusiasm banishing any remnants of sleepiness.
"I can't believe it's finally here !" Serena exclaimed, her voice brimming with glee. "I've been training so hard for this moment."
Grace chuckled, stepping closer to her daughter. "Indeed, you have. And today, you'll have the chance to showcase your skills as a Pokémon trainer. It's an important day, sweety, so you'd better not keep your friends waiting."
Serena nodded, her determination shining through. "You're right, Mom. I won't waste a moment. I'll show everyone what I'm capable of."
After a short bathroom stop and swapping her nightgown for an outfit more suited to hiking, Serena left her room. Bounding down the stairs, she found herself in the cozy kitchen, where a delicious aroma wafted through the air. Grace had prepared a hearty breakfast to fuel Serena's adventure-filled day.
As Serena devoured her meal, she heard familiar chatter drifting from the front lawn. Excitement bubbled within her as she realized it was Shauna and Tierno. Finishing the last morsel of her chocolate pancake, Serena hurriedly cleared her plate and made her way outside.
Stepping into the sun-kissed garden, she spotted Shauna, her fiery enthusiasm in full swing. Grace's Rhyhorn stood nearby, relishing the attention as Shauna fed it treats.
"Hey Serena, what's up ?" Shauna called out, her voice bursting with contagious pep.
Serena smiled, joining her friends in the courtyard. "Hi, you two. Shauna, I see you've already made a new chum."
Shauna giggled, tossing another treat to Rhyhorn. "Yep, this rocky guy is such a cutie. It's so hard to resist those big eyes."
Serena's eyebrows furrowed as she examined the grey rhino Pokémon. "Not wrong, but maybe you should stop overfeeding him. Looks like it's getting a little heavy and mushy. We don't want it to become overweight, as he's already having trouble passing through house doors..."
Shauna blinked, then burst into laughter. "Don't listen to her dude, you're perfect. Still, she calls the shots, so no more snacks for now, sorry."
With their attention refocused, the trio made their way through their hometown streets, the crisp morning air invigorating their spirits. They arrived at a lively bar terrace, where they planned to wait for their other buddies to join them.
As they settled into their seats, consulting the refreshing drinks list, Serena's gaze wandered across the bustling street, her excitement bubbling beneath the surface. Today marked the beginning of a grand adventure, a journey that would challenge them, push their limits, and bring them closer as friends.
Meanwhile, Jude sought refuge in a hidden clearing, away from the distractions of daily life. It was here, shielded by the gentle rustling of leaves, that he could focus on his training without disturbing the other locals. Clasped tightly in his hand was a Poké Ball, which he threw aloft, freeing his steadfast partner. It was a nimble and energetic Froakie. A gift from his father, treasured as his most precious possession.
The azure frog Pokémon showed an unwavering loyalty and shared Jude's unwavering determination. Together, they were an unstoppable force, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. Jude's breath quickened, his heart pounding with anticipation as he gazed into Froakie's gleaming eyes. "Are you ready, buddy ? Today, we push ourselves to the limit," he declared, his voice brimming with intent.
The blue Pokémon responded with an eager croak, ready to embark on their training regimen. The clearing transformed into their personal arena, a battleground where their ambitions would take shape. Jude and Froakie began their martial arts-inspired sparring match. Every movement was precise, every strike deliberate. The young trainer combined his own agile footwork with Froakie's water-based techniques, executing a symphony of graceful attacks. The frog's water shurikens sliced through the air, while Jude's lightning-fast kicks met their mark with resounding thuds.
"Good job. Now, try to hit me."
With rapturous reflexes, Froakie unleashed a flurry of water pulses from its palms, each aimed precisely at Jude. The young trainer skillfully dodged and weaved, his swift motions mirroring those of his Pokémon. They fought around the verdant fields, exchanging blows and evading attacks, their dogged dedication fuelling their every action.
Their movements echoed in the clearing, the clash of their techniques blending with the rustling leaves. The sound of their synchronized battle reverberated through the stillness, a testament to the bond they shared. For Jude, this was not just a sparring match—it was a dance, an exchange of energy and trust between two warriors set to face the world united.
Finally, the training session had come to an end, leaving both trainer and Pokémon breathless but elated. "You did great, Froakie. Outdid yourself as usual," Jude exclaimed, extending a hand to his Pokémon. Froakie leaped into Jude's open palm, their bond evident in their jubilant expressions.
Totally involved in his training, Jude had lost track of time. He thought he'd better hurry back, as his comrades were probably waiting for him. He pointed his Poké Ball towards the azure frog, which instantly got absorbed inside with a red light. Froakie had certainly deserved a good restorative nap. Leaving the peaceful meadow behind, Jude made his way back to downtown Vaniville. The familiar streets buzzed with the energy of the morning, a tapestry of bustling activity and eager anticipation.
As he strolled through the bucolic landscape, Jude heard a familiar voice stand out from the surrounding hubbub. He looked back to find Trevor, one of his quieter friends, approaching with a limp smile. Clutching his cell phone in hand, he was checking a newly received text message.
"Hey, Trev," Jude greeted him with a nod. "Do you know if Tierno's still at home ? I promised I'd meet him after my practice so we could pack our travel bags."
Trevor fidgeted with his phone, showing him the SMS he'd read. "No, he's not. Shauna just sent me a notification on her mobile. She says she's waiting for us at the Leafy Gogoat bar with the whole group."
"Good idea, my training gave me a thirst," Jude replied with a thumbs-up.
The two boys wasted no time, their steps quickening as they made their way through the familiar alleys of the rural town. Soon, they reached the sought-after bar, easily recognizable by the majestic wooden Gogoat sculpture standing proudly in front of its terrace. The vibrant place emanated an inviting atmosphere and was already briskly crowded despite the early hour. Upon entering, they scanned the room until their eyes landed on a familiar table where Serena, Shauna, and Tierno were gathered. Their chatter blended harmoniously amidst the bustling ambiance. Jude and Trevor joined them, settling down in their midst.
"And here are our stragglers," Shauna exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with playfulness. "Since you're the latecomers, drinks are on you."
"What ?" Trevor fretted. "Bu-but I didn't bring my wallet with me."
"Relax, I'll take care of it," Jude reassured him.
"That's the spirit," Shauna rejoiced as she called a waiter over to take care of their orders. Few minutes later, an apple juice, a squeezed orange and three lemonades were laid on their table.
Serena's face lit up with joy as she savored her refreshing beverage. "It's so great to see all of us together. The adventure awaits, and we're going to make unforgettable memories."
Trevor, his voice filled with a hint of nervousness, cleared his throat. "Well, let's not rush into things. Remember, a Pokémon trip is no mean feat. The competition will be fierce, and few will be victorious. To begin with, we need to enroll in the Pokémon League, and as you know, there's no registration point in Vaniville Town."
"Obviously, the Kalos government won't be bothering to set up this stuff in a backwater hamlet like ours. So, where should we go ?" asked Tierno.
"The nearest registration office to us is in Lumiose City. It will take place in Professor Sycamore's laboratory," Trevor replied, already having investigated the procedure to save everyone time.
"Sycamore ? Augustine Sycamore ? The famous expert Pokémon scientist ? Cool, must be plenty of spiffy gizmo to peep in his lab," Shauna gushed. "Otherwise, are there any rules for signing up ?"
Trevor, a bit flustered by the sudden attention, cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses. "Only three, but they shouldn't give us any trouble. The first is to be at least seventeen years old with a high school diploma and, in our case, parental permission as we're not yet eighteen. The second is to be a clinically stable citizen of Kalos, without any criminal records. And the last is to own at least one Pokémon suitable for battle."
Jude's hand instinctively reached for the Poké Ball fixed to his belt, and a reassuring smile crossed his face. "That won't be a problem. Froakie fits the bill perfectly."
Shauna, her eyes gleaming with excitement, nodded vigorously. "And it's not the only one. My Chespin is ready to kick some ass like a boss !"
"Okay, so everyone's ready. Let's get our travel gear packed and meet up outside the town entrance. Then we can all depart together," Serena suggested.
Everyone in the group approved, and they all left the bar for their respective homes, leaving behind five empty glasses and a few bucks to settle the tab. Serena, bursting with excitement, hurried home to gather her travel essentials. She entered her room, eyes alight with anticipation, and began packing a large suitcase. She figured it would be a long trip, so she'd better load as many items as possible to ensure she didn't run out of anything.
Repeatedly, she had to remove the bulky Glameow that nestled in her luggage, turning the growing pile of clothes into a comfortable pillow. Grace observed her daughter's preparations with a mixture of concern and fondness. "Serena, my dear, are you planning to take your whole room with you ? Sure you need all of that ?" Grace questioned gently. "With such a hefty weight to lug around, you won't last twenty meters before breaking your back."
Serena paused, looking at her overflowing suitcase, and then turned to her mother with an embarrassed smile. "Maybe I got a little carried away. What do you suggest, Mom ?"
Grace approached her daughter, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "A simple backpack should suffice. Remember, a Pokémon journey is not without its challenges and dangers. It's important to pack light and stay agile. I have faith in you, but don't forget that caution is essential."
Serena's eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Thanks, but don't worry, I won't be left alone in the wilderness. Jude is a serious trainer who can cope with hostile terrain, and Tierno will keep us entertained with his dance moves. We'll look out for each other, just as we always have."
Grace's worries eased, and she pulled Serena into a warm embrace. "Take care of yourself, my brave adventurer. May your journey be filled with joy and success, and don't forget to keep in touch with me."
Serena nodded, returning the hug with equal affection. "I promise, Mom. I'll send you updates whenever I can. You, Rhyhorn and Glameow will always be in my thoughts."
With a heavy heart, Serena said goodbye to her family, promising to return with unforgettable stories and triumphs to share. She left her home, her backpack slung over her shoulder, and made her way to the designated meeting spot on Vaniville Town's northern border. She noticed her four friends already waiting for her there, all fully outfitted for trekking and camping. Trevor made sure his camera was working properly, Tierno practiced one-armed standing, while Jude and Shauna shared a few everyday trivialities.
"That's it, everyone's here, so let's get this show on the road !" Shauna energetically chided, randomly starting to walk along the first path she'd scouted.
Jude raised an eyebrow, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Actually, you're going the wrong way. The road to Lumiose City is in the opposite direction," he said, pointing to a wide dusty lane that criss-crossed open fields.
Shauna's face turned slightly red as she bashfully corrected her course. "Oops. Uh, I knew that, naturally. It was just for testing you in case you didn't know, hehehehe…"
"Shauna and her legendary sense of direction strikes again," Tierno chuckled. "She could get lost in her own bathroom. Jude, I think we'd better have you as our guide so we don't just go round in circles."
"Okay, I'll do it. Please, follow me."
Jude took the lead and the fivesome began their long walk across Kalos. The picturesque road before them wound through vast green horizons and sprawling farms, a serene backdrop for their adventure. Overhead, swarms of Chatot filled the sky, their cheerful chirps creating a melodious undertone and their vibrant plumage painting the clouds with a kaleidoscope of colors.
Shauna's eyes widened in wonder as she marveled at the sight of all the breeding Pokémon teeming nearby. "Oh, look at all these amazing dudes. They're so adorable." The flatlands were dotted with grazing Miltank, their gentle expressions a testament to the peacefulness of the surroundings. Skiddo and Gogoat, majestic and proud, roamed freely, their riders guiding them with ease.
"They are even more so when they end up on our plates," Tierno couldn't help teasing.
"Damn, you killed the mood..." Shauna pouted. "And for your knowledge, I hate meat."
Serena took in the sights, a soft smile playing on her lips. "It's the perfect opportunity for my Pokémon to enjoy some fresh air." With a graceful motion, she summoned her loyal Fennekin from its Poké Ball. The fire fox Pokémon leaped onto the road with a playful bounce, its fiery fur illuminated by the golden rays of the sun.
Tierno, always curious, posed a question to his friend, "Hey Serena, why didn't you bring your Rhyhorn and Glameow ? They could have added some extra strength to your team."
Serena shook her head, a gentle smile on her face. "No, those two are my mother's beloved pet Pokémon. They're not really suited for battles, and I didn't want to separate them from her."
Shauna's eyes sparkled as she approached the fire fox, her arms outstretched. "Serena, your Fennekin is just too cute. Come over here, lady." She raved, lifting her up to hug her.
Serena's expression shifted to one of concern as she moved quickly to warn Shauna. "Wait, be careful ! Fennekin can be a bit rough when it's touched."
But it was too late. Fueled by her excitement, the pink-clad girl pulled Fennekin into a tight embrace, her laughter filling the air. However, as Fennekin was taken by surprise, it instinctively unleashed a burst of flames hat engulfed Shauna's body. When Chespin's trainer emerged from the blaze, her once vibrant appearance was now charred in a humorous manner. Ashen remnants of her clothes clung to her, and she blinked in surprise, unharmed but slightly singed.
Tierno, holding back his laughter with great effort, managed to say, "I guess that's what they mean by a warm welcome."
Serena rushed to Shauna's side, her concern now mixed with amusement. "Oh no, Shauna ! I'm sorry, my Pokémon isn't very sociable yet. I hope you're okay."
Shauna's voice quivered with slight shudder, her expression a blend of surprise and humor. "I-I'm fine, pal. Just a little crispy, that's all. Fortunately, I always have spare wear just in case."
The exuberant young trainer pulled from her backpack a carbon copy of the outfit she was already wearing, then ran behind a large tree so she could change in privacy. Right after she'd finished, the little band set off again. Following about an hour's hiking, Jude raised his hand, signaling to the others they were approaching their first stopover.
"Alright everyone, we're getting close to Aquacorde Town. We'll have to cross the city and head out via the north exit. From there, it's a two-hour walk to Lumiose City."
Trevor let out a weary sigh, feeling already exhausted by the sustained pace he had to keep up to avoid delaying his peers. "What, two more hours of walking ? Jude, you can't be serious. I won't last, I can't even feel my poor feet. Maybe I should just take a bus."
Shauna playfully nudged him, a mischievous look stuck to her face. "Come on, Slakoth. That's what happens when you skip gym class. I told you it'd come back to bite your butt sooner or later. No buses, we won't waste our money on that."
"Oh, dear me…"
Aquacorde Town emerged before them, a picturesque haven set amidst a network of winding rivers. To reach the city's main gate, the fivesome crossed an imposing brick bridge, its ancient stones carrying the weight of countless travelers who had come before them.
Serena gasped as her steps skimmed over the paved city floor, her eyes widening with awe. "Look at those traditional buildings. They're so perfectly aligned. Aquacorde Town is like a place from a storybook." She was so enthralled by what she observed that she began to talk like a tour guide, which the dancer was quick to point out with a sneer.
As they reached the town's heart, they found themselves standing before a sight that captivated their senses—a majestic fountain. The masterpiece featured a stunning statue of Roselia, its delicate arms formed by blooming flowers, through which water gracefully flowed. The sound of the trickling water blended with the whispers of the wind, casting a tranquil ambiance over the city square.
As his friends finally stopped trotting like Skiddo to admire the surroundings, Trevor thought it would be a perfect opportunity to take a rest. He flopped down on the nearest bench like a Snorlax falling asleep after a good meal. "Boy, did I need some time off."
"Wow, this piece of art is breathtaking." Shauna exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder. "Trevor, stop lollygagging and get over here ! You've got a camera, so take a picture of me next to the fountain."
Grumbling, the young lad struggled to his feet. Alas, his break had not been very long. "That evil girl wants to kill me…" Trevor fumbled in his backpack, searching for his device, but before he could retrieve it, a click echoed through the air. Startled, they turned their heads to find a figure standing beside Shauna, also holding a camera.
"Got the perfect shot for you," the newcomer exclaimed with a thick Kalosian accent. She wore mostly white and green, and her blond hair was held in place by a barrette shaped like Dustox wings.
Shauna looked extremely cheerful to see who had just arrived, and ran to meet her. "Miss Viola, it's great to see you again. Remember me ?"
Viola chuckled, a twinkle of nostalgia in her eyes. "Ah, how could I forget you ? Each and every face I see is etched forever in my memory." Then Shauna's picture printed out via a small aperture on her device. "Here you go. Fantastique, right ?"
"Sure it is, since it's me," Shauna joked with a wink, gawking at her shot. "It's stunning, you're really the best Kalos photographer. Ey folks, look who's here !"
Jude watched the scene from afar, and could note that Serena and Trevor looked equally well acquainted with the young sandy blonde woman, as they went merrily chatting with her too. Though he'd never seen her face-to-face, this lady wasn't unfamiliar to Jude, as she was a household name across Kalos. Viola was the gym leader of Santalune City and a renowned Bug-type Pokémon specialist. Her fame was well established, and her fighting prowess brought her the dreaded title of Spider Queen.
However, Jude hadn't expected his fellow travelers to know her well enough to feel so familiar with her. Catching his wonder, Tierno volunteered to enlighten him. "It blows your mind, huh ? Yeah, we sure got big names, bud," he ironized with a friendly clap on his back. "We actually met her during our school years. As you know, our academy stood in the same town as her gym, and sometimes Miss Viola came to teach us a few classes. It was pretty cool, even if I snoozed most of the time."
Indeed, the explanation was obvious and Jude could have guessed it. His four pals had spent their entire schooling in Santalune City, so it was only fitting that the local Pokémon champion would devote her services as a temporal instructor. It was an infallible technique for building a solid public image. Jude, for his part, had spent his studies at the prestigious Lumiose City Royal Academy, at his father's instruction.
"So, now you've graduated, what kind of job are you planning to do ?" Viola inquired, curious about the future of her former students.
Serena took a step forward and acted as spokesperson for her team. "Well, we don't know yet, but right now we've decided to embark on a journey through Kalos and compete in the Pokémon League. We want to challenge ourselves, become stronger, and maybe even aim for the title of Champion."
"Yeah, and especially get the big cash prize that will reward the winner, something not to be overlooked," Shauna curled.
Viola's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Kalos League, huh ? That doesn't surprise me one bit. I remember your passion for Pokémon battling during your school days. In that case, you'll have to come and challenge me for my Bug Badge first. I hope you'll impress me with your skills."
"We'll do our best," Trevor asserted sincerely, albeit lacking pluck.
"I certainly hope so. The Santalune City Academy's reputation will rely on you, so make sure you live up to it," the gym leader encouraged them. "So, drop by and meet me in the arena when you're ready. Good luck in your trip, I can't wait to see how far you'll go."
With that, Viola moved away and disappeared from the quintet's line of sight, mingling with the town's population. It was time for Jude and his friends to hit their stride too. The band headed off again, much to Trevor's dismay, who was still tired and trailing sluggishly behind his fellow comrades. Suddenly, the dawdler welcomed a glimmer of hope when he spotted an elegant edifice rising in the distance, its vaulted roof towering above the other structures. It was the city's railway station, and possibly what would save him from ending up with blistered feet.
Trevor's excitement couldn't be contained, "Guys, wait ! I've got an idea that might make our adventure a little... More pleasant."
"Sure, I bet it's just another excuse to laze around," Shauna teased, a mischievous grin on her face.
"Actually… yes. Look here, everyone." Trevor drew their eyes to the two large display panels lining the forecourt of the station. The left-hand board showed the entire Kalos rail network, while the right-hand board displayed the various train timetables and destinations. "In about twenty minutes, a train will depart straight from here to Lumiose City. It's a prime opportunity, not to be missed. Say what ?"
Shauna raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "I say, my dear Turtwig, that's NOT an option. At your age, you need to toughen up. You're only seventeen and you're already acting like a grandpa, don't you want a walking stick too ?"
Trevor's shoulders slumped, disappointment evident on his face. "I figured you'd say that... And I guess there's nothing in this world that'll change your mind, right ?"
Shauna's eyes gleamed impishly as she stepped forward, seizing Trevor's shirt cuff with a firm grip. "You catch on fast, genius. Get over here, we've got a long way to go," she said, dragging him back into the group. Tierno and Serena were struck by this unexpected show of strength from Chespin's trainer, realizing she had hidden depths.
"Boy, remind me never to cross you again," the dancer quipped.
"If I die of exhaustion, you'll be left with this on your conscience, you pinky demon," Trevor complained.
"Yeah, yeah, whatever... Forward march pops, but next time don't forget your rollator."
To be continued