" To you, who don't want to forget, even when you grow up.. to seek beyond the bouneadaries of possibility. "

The towering spires of Wyndon rose before Ash Ketchum like gleaming giants, their silhouettes bathed in the golden light of the late morning sun. The city—alive with a blend of modernity and timeless tradition—stood as a testament to progress, its streets winding through the heart of Galar like veins of energy. Though years had passed since Ash last set foot in this metropolis, the memories of his crowning moment still lingered like a dream.

Back then, he had stood at the peak of his journey, crowned World Champion in Wyndon's grand stadium. But today was different. There were no battles to be fought, no league to win. Today was about reuniting with old friends, some of whom he hadn't seen in years.

"Pi-ka-pi!" Pikachu's cheerful cry snapped Ash from his thoughts. Perched on his shoulder as always, Pikachu seemed just as thrilled to be back. Its bright eyes gleamed with excitement as it took in the bustling streets of Wyndon.

"We're finally here, buddy," Ash said with a grin, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Feels weird coming back without a battle to fight, huh? Just cheering for everyone else this time." Pikachu nodded enthusiastically, its tail flicking happily.

The streets of Wyndon buzzed with energy. A massive banner flew over the roads, proudly displaying the emblem of the World Grand Contest. Buses and taxis zipped past, and the sidewalks were crowded with both people and Pokémon, some of whom were politely reminded by officers to return their larger Pokémon to their Poké Balls. The scent of freshly baked goods wafted from a nearby bakery, mixing with the faint smell of wet stone from a recent drizzle. The city shimmered in the morning light, alive with color and sound.

As they moved through the crowd, Ash noticed people turning their heads, whispering excitedly to one another.

"Isn't that Ash Ketchum?"

"The World Champion?"

"He looks just like he did when he beat Leon!"

"Wow, he's grown a lot, though!"

"Hey, Pikachuuu!"

Ash smiled and waved, though he tried to keep a low profile, slightly embarrassed by the attention. Pikachu, however, puffed out its chest proudly with each passing remark, greeting admirers with a gleeful "Pika!"

After signing a few autographs and offering some words of encouragement to the children, Ash continued through the busy streets.

He chuckled at Pikachu's enthusiasm. "Don't get too cocky, Pikachu. We're here for the others, remember? They're the stars today."

"Pika!" Pikachu nodded, though its tail still flicked with delight at hearing Ash's name whispered by onlookers.

As they neared the heart of the city, Wyndon Stadium's towering spire loomed ahead, its curved arches a familiar sight against the cloud-dappled sky. For Ash, this place held memories of joy and triumph. Passing a statue of Charizard, Leon's powerful partner, posed in mid-roar, Ash paused for a moment, gazing up at the monument. The battle against Leon flashed through his mind—the heat of the stadium, the roar of the crowd, and the exhilarating moment Pikachu delivered the final blow.

"Still popular, huh?" Ash smirked, clenching his fist. "I'm ready for our rematch, Leon."

But today wasn't about battles. It was about the Grand Contest, where coordinators from all over the world gathered to showcase their Pokémon's grace and skill. As much as Ash was excited to be back in the stadium, he was more eager to see his friends.

"We'd better hurry, Pikachu," Ash urged, picking up the pace. "We can't miss their performances!"

They dashed through the plaza, weaving between excited tourists and Galar residents. Bright flags hung from the buildings, each proudly displaying colors from different regions or highlighting famous coordinators. The air was filled with chatter about the upcoming event, and the excitement was contagious.

Just as they were about to reach the city center, Pikachu's ears twitched. Without warning, it leapt off Ash's shoulder and darted into the crowd.

"Pikachu?" Ash called, confused. "What is it? We need to head to the stadium!"

But Pikachu didn't stop, darting down a side street flanked by chic boutiques and elegant storefronts. Ash sighed and jogged after it, weaving through the bustling crowd. Dodging a vendor selling Poké Puffs, he followed Pikachu through the narrow cobblestone path.

Pikachu finally stopped in front of an upscale clothing store. Its large windows gleamed in the soft morning light, and the elegant ironwork framing the entrance added to its allure.

The sign above the door read "Ember Lace - Cinder Fashion Accessories." Through the window, Ash could see mannequins dressed in sophisticated outfits, with Pokémon-themed accessories laid out in stylish displays.

"What's so interesting here, Pikachu?" Ash muttered, following his partner into the store. Inside, the boutique was even more impressive, filled with high-end clothing and luxurious Pokémon accessories. The scent of perfume and leather lingered in the air, and soft music played in the background. Ash blinked, looking around, unsure why Pikachu had brought him here.

Then he saw her.

Standing near the back of the boutique, examining a rack of scarves, was a familiar figure with long, dark blue hair tied into her unusual twintails.

"He looks just like he did during the finals against Leon!

Pikachu called out, rushing over to greet the two, letting out a delighted cry. "Pika!"

"No way, is it really him?

But as she hugged him tighter, something felt… different. Wait a minute... was Pikachu always this... plump? Dawn blinked, tilting her head in confusion. Could this really be the same Pikachu she knew?

Her curiosity got the better of her as she began poking and pulling Pikachu's round cheeks, finding it relaxing. "You're so squishy! Have you been sneaking extra Poffins, little guy?" she teased, unable to resist giving his chubby cheeks a playful tug again, which squished under her finger. Pikachu let out an amused "Pika-pi!" as Dawn burst into laughter.

Piplup, seeing Pikachu, puffed out its chest with a playful cry. "Pi-Pi-Piplouup!"

The two Pokémon greeted each other with enthusiasm, their long-time friendship rekindling as they exchanged chirps and playful jabs. Dawn, still giggling, poked Pikachu's cheeks again. "I can't believe it! You're like a little electric marshmallow now!"

Meanwhile, Ash had stopped near the entrance, watching the scene unfold with a mischievous grin. An idea formed in his mind. Silently, he slipped around the perimeter of the shop, using the racks of clothing as cover as he tried to sneak up on Dawn from behind. Pikachu caught his eye mid-sneak, but the Pokémon just grinned, tail wagging as it watched its Trainer's antics.

Dawn, meanwhile, was still focused on Pikachu, brushing through his fur with gentle fingers. "Are you lost, Pikachu? I wonder if Ash is nearby~" she mused aloud. "It's been forever since I've seen him."

Ash crept closer, keeping his footsteps light. Dawn was still busy playing with Pikachu and Tiplouf, her back turned to him. He could barely contain his excitement at the thought of surprising her-just like old times. With one last step, Ash reached out and-

"Gotcha!" he exclaimed.

Dawn let out a startled gasp, spinning around with wide eyes. But the moment she saw Ash standing there, grinning from ear to ear, her expression softened into one of delighted surprise.

"Eh?!" Dawn's laugh bubbled out as she gave Ash a playful punch on the arm. "Ash! It's really you!"

Ash chuckled, scratching the back of his head with a sheepish grin. "Couldn't resist! So, how does it feel getting a taste of your own medicine? This time, I'm the one surprising you!"

Dawn pretended to think.. "Actually..." She crossed her arms, smirking. "Not really."

Ash blinked in confusion. "What? No way! I didn't make a sound."

"Next time, try showing up before Pikachu does, and maybe I won't suspect some doofus in a cap lurking around," Her indigo eyes sparkled when she stuck out her tongue mischievously, then extended her hand for a high five, her expression softening into warmth.

Without missing a beat, Ash clasped it, and almost as if on cue. The old camaraderie between them instantly rekindled by this old gimmick. Pikachu and Piplup mimicked their trainers, enthusiastically shaking paws.

"Glad you're here, Ash!" Dawn said, her smile as genuine as ever.

Ash nodded, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "It's been too long!"

Dawn looked up at him and raised an eyebrow. "You can say that again! So long that... you're taller than me now!" She let out a mock gasp before tilting her head, "How've you been, you two?"

Ash scratched his cheek with a grin. "We're good! What about you? Ready to face the pressure of the Contest?"

Dawn crossed her arms confidently, glancing at Piplup, who struck a proud pose. "Oh, you bet! No need to worry, we're more than ready to work some miracles out there. Right, Piplup?" She gave a little laugh, though her fingers twitched with nervous energy before she clasped her hands behind her back.

"By the way, have you met up with Brock and May yet?"

Ash shooking his head "Actually, you're the first friend I've run into here!"

Dawn's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Lucky you, then!"

Ash laughed again but then raised an eyebrow. "Wait, Brock's already here?"

Dawn rolled her eyes in good-natured exasperation. "Of course! I was surprised too when I saw him. But come on, it's Brock. He's kind of hard to miss... especially with womens around."

Ash snickered. "Some things never change, huh?"

Dawn laughed along but shrugged, her expression caught between amusement and pity. "I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing in his case."

Their chuckles was cut off by a sudden rumbling noise-Ash's stomach growling loudly. Pikachu's ears twitched as if in response, and Dawn blinked, fighting to burst into a light-hearted laugh.

Dawn sighs, shaking her head "...Seems like some things don't change with you, either."

Ash rubbed the back of his neck, grinning sheepishly. "I could really use a sweet right now. What do you think, Pikachu?"

Pikachu nodded enthusiastically, but before Ash could say another word, Pikachu's own stomach growled in sync, drawing an amused look from both Dawn and Piplup.

"Hah, okay, I feel for you two. Tell you what, I'll treat you guys! Consider it a welcome-back gift."

Ash's eyes lit up. "Really? Thanks, Dawn!"

Dawn gave a playful wink. "You're here to cheer us on, after all. But hurry up! We don't want to miss the opening ceremony!"

Ash pumped his fist with enthusiasm. "Alright! Lead the way!" Ash said, following closely behind her as she motioned toward a nearby café.

They made their way down the bustling streets of Wyndon, eventually finding a cozy café tucked between towering buildings. After a bit of waiting, the trio finally sat down at a small table with an assortment of snacks. Ash and Pikachu wasted no time digging in, savoring the sweet treats in front of them.

Ash took a bite of his pastry and sighed contentedly. "Now this is good stuff!"

Dawn got a nostalgia mood, watching Ash and Pikachu devour their cake together.

Pikachu nibbled on the overhanging ends to make the cake perfectly round, while Ash devoured his slice of a towering Charizard flambé cake, its outer layer decorated a bright orange with swirls of fiery icing that gave the impression that he was breathing fire. Piplup couldn't resist finally taking a piece of their own cake rather than that of his trainer who was rather modest in comparison.. Watching her pokemon from the corner of his eye, Dawn picked up her own Shaymin lemon pie. The sweet was shaped like the petite Pokémon's flower-adorned hedgehog form, its crust flaky and the lemon filling sweet with a hint of tang.. She noticed the zest of Chesto berries inside, and took a small bite before speaking again.

"So," she began, her eyes curious, "What have you and Pikachu been up to since we last saw each other? You've been kind of a ghost these past few years, what's kept you away?"

Ash scratched the back of his head awkwardly, laughing under his breath. "Yeah, about that... After winning the World Championship, I kinda went... low-key. The last couple of years, we've been traveling through some pretty remote regions, places where there isn't much signal, so... staying connected wasn't exactly easy."

Dawn's eyes widened in awe, with a ironical tone. "No way! Did you discover new lands or something?" She chuckles before continue. "Seriously, I can't even imagine the places you've been or the Pokémon you've met. Do you have any pictures?" She took another bite of her lemon tart, her curiosity piqued.

Ash nodded, calling out his Rotom Phone. "Rotom, mind showing us some pics?"

The device buzzed to life, its screen lighting up. "Rotom Phone, at your service! Beginning with chronological order, let me present our arrival in-"

The phone displayed a chaotic scene: Ash sprinting through the city streets with a horde of fans trailing behind, Pikachu clinging to his shoulder.

Dawn gasped, leaning closer to the screen. "Whoa, wait ! You sure know how to make an entrance!"

Ash blinked, frowning at the image of him dashing through a crowd, clearly in the middle of an intense run. "Rotom, why'd you take a picture of that?"

Rotom hovered proudly. "I deemed it an prime moment to immortalize your arrival! The intensity of your escape was quite impressive!"

Dawn giggled behind her hand, interrogating him like he did again something wrong. "Were all those people mad at you? What did you..?"

Ash sighed, shaking his head. "Nothing! I swear! Ever since the championship.. Every time I set foot in a city, fans just... show up sometimes in mass out of nowhere. I thought they wouldn't recognize me so quickly, but nope. At first, I didn't mind all the attention and it was nice to felt welcome everywhere, but now... I can't go anywhere without getting swarmed for autographs or others things. I don't want hide myself each time I explore a city..."

Dawn nodded in sympathy, resting her chin in her hand. "I totally get it. As a coordinator, I've had my fair share of autograph hunters and selfie requests. Most of the people are harmless, but then there are the weirdos..." She glanced at Piplup, who puffed out its chest proudly. "Luckily, Piplup's always there to scare them off."

"Piplup!" Piplup chimed.

Ash chuckled. "Wait, you have a fan club?"

She tilted her head, giving Ash a look of exaggerated disbelief. "Why are you so surprised? Of course, I do!"

Ash paused, then nodded thoughtfully. "I dunno.. Yeah maybe, that makes sense. Coordinators are like public celebrities, right? I guess it's a little different from just being a good Pokémon Trainer focused on pokemon battles."

Dawn smiled, leaning back in her chair. "Exactly. Coordinators get a bit more attention-some of the most famous ones are like regional idols. Kind of like you in Kanto with your reputation and all those titles, champion!"

Ash scratched his nose, feeling a little bashful. "Yeah, I guess that's true. After three years, are you a Sinnoh stars now?"

Dawn gave a playful shrug. "Hard to say. There are a lot of contest stars from Sinnoh, especially this year. But I'm not here for the fame-I'm here to win the trophy!"

Her eyes gleamed with determination, her usual cheerfulness momentarily replaced with focus.

Ash grinned, his voice filled with encouragement. "You don't need to be the most popular-you've got the best support! Just focus on your performance, and we'll make sure to cheer louder than anyone else in the stands!"

Dawn's eyes sparkled with gratitude. "That would be sweet... though I hope you don't get mobbed by fans again."

Ash laughed, a little nervously. "Alright.. Maybe I'll figure out a quieter way to cheer you up!"

Dawn chuckled softly. With a warm expression on her face, she answered him.. "No need to worry! Just having you here is enough." ..before finishing the last bite of her lemon pie.

Dawn leaned back in her chair, her gaze drifting for a moment. "You know, Ash... I'm really glad we met all those years ago. If we hadn't... I don't think I'd be where I am today."

Ash tilted his head, eyes narrowing slightly in confusion before he smirked. "Hmm? Getting sentimental, Dawn?"

Dawn shrugged, her fingers tracing the edge of her cup. "A little..." Her voice quieted for a moment. "I guess it's just... being here, at the World Grand Contest, it's surreal. I still can't believe it sometimes. From my first journey... to this."

Ash looked at her with a thoughtful expression, then grinned. "Well, Brock and I definitely helped out with our experience back then!"

Dawn's playful spark returned as she puffed out her cheeks. "Help? Ash, half the time we spent yelling at each other!"

Ash laughed, raising his hands in mock defense. "Hey, I gave you a hand too! Remember when you didn't even know how to throw a Pokéball properly?"

Dawn blushed, turning her head away with a huff. "Ugh! Don't remind me! And if you want to play the embarrassing game, you literally destroyed my bike, you know!" She crossed her arms, but the smile on her face betrayed her amusement.

Ash's laughing nervously, and he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Okay, okay! In our defense... you're not the first or, the only one!"

Dawn shook her head, trying to suppress a laugh. "You're really not helping your case here. You're just making it worse, Ash."

He groaned, raising both hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine! If it still bothers you, I'll get you a new bike."

Dawn waved him off, her smile softening. "No, Ash. No need to worry ! Sure, my bike would still be around if I hadn't met you... but honestly? I wouldn't change anything."

Ash felt a warmth spread through him as he nodded. "I don't regret it either."

Dawn gave him a sharp look, then pointed a finger at him. "You should be at least a little concerned, though!"

Ash threw his hands up in mock surrender. Finally, they both burst out laughing, their voices filling the air. It felt good, the easy rhythm between them, just like old times. Dawn shook her head, wiping a small tear from her eye as she caught her breath.

"By the way," she said, catching her breath, "you still owe me those pictures." she add, leaning back in her seat.

Ash snapped his fingers, realizing he'd completely forgotten. "Oh yeah, right! I'll show them to you later, if you're still curious."

Dawn waved her hand dismissively, shaking her head as she took a sip of her tea. "Okay, dokey! For now, just focus on finishing your cake."

As they ate in comfortable silence, Ash took another bite, savoring the sweetness. As he chewed, a thoughtful expression crossed his face. "Speaking of memories... how long has it been since you came to support me at my final match on this city? A while, huh?"

Dawn paused mid-bite, looking at him like he'd just said something ridiculous. "You're serious? You forgot?" She leaned in, crossing her arms on the table. "Three years, Ash. Three whole years since you won that match."

Ash's eyes widened slightly. "Three years already? Wow... Time really flew by after that."

Dawn smirked, resting her chin in her hand. "Hehe! Indeed, it flies by. Anyway, take a good look at me." She leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Don't you notice something?"

Ash blinked, his eyes scanning her curiously. His gaze wandered over her, but as usual, no sign of understanding crossed his face. Dawn sighed, slowly leaning closer, clearly hoping he'd finally catch on.

As Ash continued to look at her, he did start to notice things, beginning by what he already noticed like her hair, now tied into those unfamiliar low twin-tails. She was still wearing that same white beanie he remembered from their journeys together, paired with a crisp white scarf that draped around her neck. His eyes then traveled to her sleeveless black sweater, which hugged her frame neatly fitted snugly, and then down to her skirt-a white one, longer than the miniskirts she used to wear, reaching a little closer to her knees now.

He frowned, puzzled, as his gaze dipped lower. Her legs were clad in black pantyhose, maybe for adding a illusional mature touch to her appearance.. and just below the table, peeking out, he noticed her pink boots-still the same as before. Even though there was some change, Ash had a hard time believing that she had drastically changed on this side of her.

Seconds passed in silence, and just as Dawn was about to give up hope on his ever-dense brain, Ash's eyes widened.

Ash frowned when he tilted his head, still clueless. "Uh... did you finally change your clothes?"

Dawn's jaw dropped in mock outrage. "It's not the only.. Wait ! What do you mean finally? Are you not shocked to see me in a new type of outfit?!"

Ash chuckled, resting his chin in his hand. "You're the only girl I know who'd make a breaking news out of a wardrobe change.."

Dawn puffed out her cheeks in indignation. "T-That's rude! I really liked my old outfit! It was heartbreaking to retire it."

Ash snickered. "You weren't planning to wear the same thing for the rest of your life, were you?"

Dawn crossed her arms even more defensively, trying to maintain her pout. "N-No, of course not... but still..." She trailed off, glancing away.

Ash couldn't help but chuckle again. Teasing Dawn was just too easy. There was a brief moment of silence before Ash gave her another look, this time with a more sincere tone.

"Alright, alright. You want a compliment? Fine. I think you look great, more mature even. Happy now?"

Dawn raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Ah, there it is-Ash Ketchum, the king of awkward compliments. Still no sense of delicacy when it comes to girls, huh? Some things surely never change!"

Ash blinked, confused. "What? I meant it in a good way!"

Dawn waved him off dramatically. "Whatever! Like you said, I'm a mature woman now. So, I'll forgive your... foolishness and let it slide."

Ash raised an eyebrow, not entirely convinced by her overly grand tone. He watched her sip her tea, shaking his head with a smile. After a moment, Ash leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.

"Okay, your turn! What have you and Piplup been up to these past three years?"

Dawn's eyes lit up as she set down her cup. She leaned back, tapping her fingers thoughtfully. "Well... a lot, actually. Tons of contests, loads of work as a Pokémon Coordinator." She muttered under her breath, "Still not a Top Coordinator, though..."

But before Ash could catch the hint of frustration, with renewed confidence, she sat up straight. She placed a hand proudly on her chest, her eyes flickered with determination as her voice grew louder. . "Anyway! To get into this competition, you needed to rank among the top Coordinators in the world over the last three years! So yeah, we worked hard, right Piplup?"

"Piplup!" Piplup nodded with determination, raising a flipper proudly.

Ash smiled, nodding appreciatively. "That doesn't surprise me at all. You've always had the determination and talent for reaching the best. Congratulations, huh.. 'Not-Top-Coordinator-yet' Dawn!" He flashed her a teasing grin.

Dawn's cheeks turned slightly pink as playfully swatted his shoulder. "Hey! It's not funny! I'm this close! Just wait until I get my world title. Then we'll see who's laughing!"

Ash winced slightly, rubbing his shoulder. "Ow! Okay, okay, my bad! I give up! You're gonna be the future champion, no matter the contest!" He stuck his tongue out at her, earning a laugh from both Dawn and Piplup.

Dawn smirked, raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Coming from Mister World Pokémon Master Ash in person.. That means a lot!" She chuckled and leaned in a bit, her expression playful. "It's still weird hearing this title of yours."

Ash chuckled back, looking down at Pikachu, who was satisfied finishing their cake. "Same here. It's not exactly the title I got, but it still feels... weird after all these years."

Dawn grinned, flicking her hair back dramatically. "Pfft! Poor proclaimed champion. Well, you better get used to it! Because soon, you'll be standing across from the greatest Top Coordinator the world has ever seen! You should feel lucky you're sitting across from someone who won't just be the greatest Top Coordinator in Sinnoh, but in the whole world!"

Piplup struck a heroic jump beside her, striking a fighting pose. "Pip-piplup!"

Ash couldn't help but laugh at the scene. Ash wiped a tear from his eye, still laughing. "Truly honored- only because you paid for the cake."

Dawn rolled her eyes but smiled, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Sweet talker.. Litterally!"

The bustling café around them was filled with the hum of people chatting and Pokémon enjoying treats alongside their trainers. Ash leaned back, absentmindedly spinning a fork between his fingers. "So, let me get this straight... The contest is open to Pokémon Coordinators from all over the world? Anyone who's made a big impression over the past three years can participate?"

Ash leaned back, absentmindedly spinning a fork between his fingers.

Dawn: "Yep!" Dawn smirked, leaning forward with excitement as she explained, her eyes lighting up. "Exactly! Even coordinators from regions that don't hold contests can be part of the elite. In a nutshell, if you're one of the best in your region based on your general performance worldwide-or if you've won the Grand Contest of a region-you qualify for the first step.

Her hands moved energetically as she spoke, mimicking some of the contest movements. The bustling café around them was filled with other trainers and their Pokémon, some of whom were watching a large TV mounted on the wall. Outside the windows, the streets of the city buzzed with excitement, as trainers walked with their Pokémon, getting ready for the upcoming event. A pair of Eevees playfully chased each other by the café entrance, causing Piplup to look up curiously if it wasn't their friend Chloe. However, it wasn't. Piplup came back next of his trainer, with Dawn's eyes sparkled with excitement as she continue to spoke without any break. She still gestured with her hands as she explained the process, while Piplup, sitting beside her, mimicked her enthusiastic energy by imitating her. But it didn't help Ash to understand her thoughts when she begins to turn around the subject..

Dawn: "You rack up points for your performances, your dress-ups, and of course, beauty. I mean, there isn't just beauty type of contest but you understood me! If you score high enough, you move on to the next phase. And the final round? Well, you know how that goes... A final battle for closing the biggest show of the world! The winner gets not only a prestigious ribbon and trophy but also a magnificent crown adorned with Galarian jewels! Can you imagine how stunning it's going to look on me ?!"

Ash nodded, even if he was clearly lost with her chaotic explanation. Her eyes widened as she glanced toward the large TV mounted on the café wall. "Oh, look! They're explaining all the steps on TV!"

Ash turned to face the screen as well, where a vibrant image of Marian, one of the contest host, appeared. With her usual flair, she was walking the audience through each stage of the tournament. Past Pokémon Coordinators posed on screen, their Pokémon twirling gracefully, while the camera zoomed in on the glittering prizes for this year.

Ash: "Oh, perfect timing. Now, I think I will understand better!"

The two friends leaned in, their plates momentarily forgotten, as they watched the broadcast who explain in details how the process of the contest. Pikachu hopped onto the table, nibbling on a piece of rest of cake while watching the TV, while Piplup playfully tapped its foot, mimicking one of the Pokémon performers. In resume, there is the first turn where we select in all the mass of participants, all the 16th best coordinators after a performance contest. And finally, the second turn where the tournament steps begins with contest battles until the finals.. Easy to understand, right..?

Ash: "So, the winner really will be the best Coordinator in the world, huh? I already forgot most of the details, but it sounds exciting!"

Dawn chuckled, her tone teasing. "Hehe... Sorry if we've been talking too much for your brain to handle! Still, I'm glad to notice you curious about it, Ash. I'd like to think it's because you're here to support me to the victory!" She gave him a teasing smile. "Haha, just kidding! Of course, you're supporting May and Chloe too without any preference for any of your friends.. right?"

Ash smirks, scratching the back of his head.

"It's more about the epic showdown where I'm the most curious! But yeah, I will support equally everyone.. but it won't restrain myself to support you too, Dawn! I mean, it's only fair after you came to cheer me on during my final at the World Championship." His expression softened as he glanced back at her. "Back at this day, I didn't expect you to show up out of nowhere like that. You really surprised me!"

Dawn leaned back, a nostalgic look crossing her face as her fingers traced the rim of her cup. "I was around, so how could I miss it? Ah, those were the golden days! It feels like just yesterday... I was so nervous that day, probably more than you were!"

Ash chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "Really? I didn't notice you being nervous at all."

Dawn: "That's because I was hiding it! I'd never watched a prestigious world final before. But when I saw you standing there with Pikachu, I just knew you weren't going to lose. And even though I believed in you, Ash, you still blew me away with how you battled Leon. Watching you inspired me and gave me even more motivation to win a world championship of my own and.. here we are again! However, it's my turn to surprise you from the stands of this stadium!"

Ash's gaze softened, his voice full of confidence. "Well, I've got the same feeling about you, Dawn. You're going to be just as spectacular in this contest... and maybe even winning your own final!"

Dawn closed her eyes for a moment, lost in thought. "I hope so..." Her voice was quieter now, filled with both excitement and nerves.

As Dawn reflected, Ash's eyes subtly drifted toward the counter, eyeing the display of cakes. He quickly shook his head, snapping back to the moment, but his stomach betrayed him with a soft growl.

Dawn: "Still... it's really cool to have you here, Ash. Are you planning to stay and watch the entire World Grand Contest?"

Ash blinked, snapping out of his dessert daydream. "Huh? Did you really think I was going to leave after just a few battles? Of course, I'm here to support you all the way through!"

Dawn's face lit up, and she leaned forward with genuine warmth. "Aww, thanks, Ash! That means a lot to me."

Ash leaned back, arms behind his head, a relaxed grin on his face. "Same here. It's been a while since I've seen everyone, and it's not like I have anything else going on right now. I just hope at least one of my friends makes it to the finals!"

Dawn quirked an eyebrow, leaning on her hand. "How many of your friends are competing, anyway?"

Ash started counting on his fingers, his face scrunched up in concentration. "Let's see... May, Chloe, Serena, and then... uh... you and..."

Ash paused, his brow furrowing as he continued counting on his fingers. "Uh... I just forgot which of my friends participate or not to this one contest.. well... there's..."

Dawn shook her head, laughing softly. "Don't strain yourself, Ash."

Ash groaned sheepishly, giving up the count and throwing his hands up in defeat. "...A lot."

Pikachu sighed, clearly used to Ash's forgetfulness.

Dawn: "Ah, you gave up already." She teased, her eyes glimmering with amusement. "Imagine being a Pokémon Champion and still needing to count on your hands."

They both laughed, the atmosphere light and easy between them. Outside, a nearby Loudred could be heard booming with its trainer, who didn't care at all about annoying the people around him..))

Dawn: "Anyway, it's been ages since I've competed alongside May. This is going to be fun!"

Ash: "I wonder how much stronger she's gotten! I'm hyped to watch both of you battle it out if it happens!"

As they continued to chat, Dawn's gaze flickered back to the TV. Her smile faltered slightly, and she bit her lip, deep in thought. Meanwhile, Ash's focus had completely shifted toward the counter, his eyes were firmly locked on a astonishing Alcremie-shaped milshake being served at a nearby table, causing Pikachu to shake its head in amusement.. His stomach growled again, louder this time when he's suffering to observe the Slakoth of the other table licking and slowly taking a bite into...

Suddenly, Dawn noticed the time displayed on the TV and gasped, jumping to her feet. "O-Oh no! We'd better get back to the stadium! The show's about to start!"

Ash blinked, his focus on the cakes broken once again. "I wanted to find the others first... Maybe May and Serena are already at the stadium?"

He stood up too, but his gaze drifted back to the counter, landing on a particularly eye-catching cake.

Sitting there was a large, intricately designed cake shaped like a tempting Jigglypuff-inspired cake, its soft, frosting resembling the Pokémon's chubby cheeks, topped with edible music notes. The cake's eyes, made of smooth, glossy pink chocolate, gave it an almost lifelike presence.

Ash's stomach growled as he stared at the elegant masterpiece..

"Eho!" Dawn glanced at him, a signal of urgency in her eyes when she grabbed her bag in a hurry. "No time to waste, Ash! We've got to go now!"

Ash: "W-Wait! I just need to grab another cake real quick!"

Dawn spun around before falling ridiculously, her eyes wide with disbelief.. "AGAIN?!"

Ash: "I'll be quick, I promise!" His eyes sparkled with determination, though it was all for the dessert rather than the competition at this moment.

Dawn placed her hands on her hips, tapping her foot impatiently. "Don't count on me paying back your cake if we're late!"

Ash waved her off, already heading toward the counter. "Calm down, Dawn! I don't need you to pay for this one. If you're in such a hurry, you can run ahead to the stadium-I'll catch up later!"

Dawn hesitated, glancing between Ash and the exit. After a moment, she sighed, rolling her eyes. "...Geez, you're still such a child. Just be fast! I'll wait, but only for a few minutes!"

Ash grinned as he pointed toward her. "Don't blame me if you're late!"

Dawn threw her hands in the air, exasperated. "Just hurry!"

Finally, after playing with the coordinator's nerves, hurriedly lugged his cake as they made their way to the cafe's exit.

The World Grand Contest finally opens its doors... full of ambition and excitement, they set off at full speed in the street in direction of the stadium. This week of competition was surely going to be a memorable memory of their trip.. They could felt it.. However, at that moment, the two long-time friends would not have thought that this reunion would immediately result in something rather unexpected and problematic.. Inauguration day has only just begun!