Pokémon Gray

by Carlos Shiny

Pokémon Gray. What if Ash had never traveled to Unova before now? Ash, now eighteen and strongest trainer in the world, wants to take an important step in his journey to become a Pokémon Master. It's not about participating in another Pokémon League Tournament or defeating other champions, but doing something new and completely different.

6. A Precious Experience

After pretending to be a Team Plasma Grunt, Ash managed to free some Vivillon that were imprisoned by him and his friends because of a lie. Anita also managed to catch one after a battle against her Oshawott.

A Precious Experience

Beep! The ranger honked the van's horn. «We have to go now! Or we'll leave you halfway!» he urged them to get on board. «Don't worry! We're getting in!» Ash reassured him, approaching the van and opening the door. He invited Serena to sit in the middle seat on the front bench. Carlos and Anita sat on the back seat. As soon as all six buckled up, the ranger drove off. «I remind you that once you arrive in Eolea, Anita will need to report the catchof her Vivillon.» the ranger reminded them. «Unfortunately, we don't have our computers and can't do it ourselves.» Anita nodded. «Understood. What exactly do I need to do to report the catch?» she asked. «Nothing special. You can do it at the Pokémon Center. Nurse Joy will ask you a few questions about your Pokémon and register your capture. That's all.» the woman replied. «The registration is valid even if the Pokémon is traded or given away.» she added.
The journey continued smoothly until they reached the town of Eolea. The ranger parked the van in the town square. «Here we are! The Pokémon Center is right in front of us!» The ranger turned off the van and the four got out. «Aren't you forgetting something?» the ranger addressed Ash. «Your stuff. It's in the back.» Ash opened the sliding door and climbed into the van, retrieving his backpack and clothes. They were a bit dusty but intact. Ash dusted off his backpack, took off his uniform, and put on his pants. He quickly stuffed the uniform into his backpack, then jumped to the ground. «You never know when it might come in handy again.» he commented. «Thanks for the ride!» they thanked him. The van drove off, leaving the four alone. Ash finished dressing, putting on his shirt, jacket, and shoes. «Sorry, but I couldn't stay in those clothes.» he said while finishing dressing. No one said anything to him. They all knew that showing up dressed like that was not a good idea.
Finally, the four reached the Pokémon Center. As soon as they entered, they were greeted by Nurse Joy. «Good morning, kids! How can I help you?» she welcomed them. «Good morning!» they greeted back. Ash approached the counter. «We'd like to book two rooms for the night, if possible.» Nurse Joy quickly checked her computer. «No problem. You can check in now. You look a bit tired.» None of them felt like objecting. «If you'd like, I can take care of your Pokémon while you rest.» she offered. The four handed over their Poké Balls, with Pikachu, as usual, jumping onto the counter. Shortly after, Ash and Serena took the keys to the rooms where they would stay. «Just follow the arrows.» Nurse Joy explained.
Ash ran at lightning speed, almost bumping into the cleaning lady just coming out of one of the rooms. «I'm sorry.» Ash apologized with a slight bow. «No problem!» replied the woman. Ash finally entered the room. He took some clothes and underwear from his backpack and tossed it onto one of the beds, then hurried to the bathroom. At last, Ash could take the much-needed shower. Boom! Boom! Boom! Carlos banged on the door. «How much longer?» Carlos complained. «You've been in there for three quarters of an hour!» he added. «Hey! I'm done! Just let me finish drying my hair!» Ash sounded quite annoyed. He couldn't even relax a bit. Ash finished getting ready and came out of the bathroom. Carlos quickly darted into the bathroom, narrowly avoiding Ash. Ash sat on the bed and finished dressing. He put on a pair of black jeans, ripped at the knees, a pair of black sneakers, a simple t-shirt with a logo, and a blue jacket. On his head, a red cap.
Once everyone was ready, the four gathered in front of Nurse Joy's counter. «Oh...! There you are. Your Pokémon are in perfect shape. Ah... by the way... who is the Trainer of Vivillon?» Nurse Joy asked. «I-it's me.» Anita responded, a bit nervous. «Do you have the catch report?» asked the nurse kindly. «N-no. I haven't done it yet. I catched it this morning. The Rangers told me I could report the catch at a Pokémon Center.» the girl replied. «They were right. Give me thirty seconds to open the site.» The nurse quickly typed on her computer, opening the Rare Pokémon Protection Department (DPPR) website. «So... I need your Trainer card.» Anita handed Nurse Joy her Smart Rotom, allowing her to scan the QR code. «Perfect. Your name is Anita White. And you come from Soffiolieve... right?» asked the nurse. «Exactly.» confirmed the girl. «Now I'll ask you a few questions about your Pokémon. Nothing to worry about.» the nurse reassured her.
«First of all, you catched the forty-seventh specimen this year. You're perfectly within the rules. Do you confirm it's a Marine Pattern Vivillon?» she asked. «Yes, Marine Pattern and it's a female.» the girl replied. «Very well. You've also shown a good understanding of this Pokémon species. Very good. Yours is the fifth Marine Pattern specimen catched this year. The third female Marine Pattern and the twenty-fourth overall.» she explained. «Do you prefer to have the certificate printed or emailed?» she asked. «I prefer email. I might lose the paper.» she replied. «anitawhite .» The nurse noted the information on her computer and sent the document to the girl. «It's arrived.» the girl confirmed.
«By the way...» Serena changed the subject. «My friend and I would like to participate in the Showcase...» «I understand...» replied Nurse Joy. «It's not too far from here. Go through the alley behind here and you'll reach the theater. I suggest you hurry... the Showcase will be the day after tomorrow afternoon, but registrations close in a few hours.» she said. «Thanks!» replied Serena. «Then we'd better get going.» The girl invited the group to follow her. The four set off, with Serena leading the way. They crossed the alley next to the Pokémon Center and reached a smaller square. In the center of the square was a fountain with Pokémon statues. In front of them stood an ancient-looking building, covered in precious materials. The door, quite tall and made of dark wood and metal, bore a sign that read:
"Eolea Showcase Theater: Registrations are open: We look forward to seeing you!"
«We're still in time, then.» commented Serena, inviting Anita to follow her. Ash and Carlos stayed a few steps behind. The Pallet Town native was admiring the interior of the building. It was as well-maintained and elegant as the exterior. Elaborate chandeliers made of precious metal and crystal hung from the ceiling, and several paintings by famous artists adorned the walls. Not that Ash knew much about art, but he could appreciate them. On the floor were large marble statues. They didn't depict Pokémon but something abstract that Ash couldn't identify.
After waiting a few moments, it was finally time for Serena and Anita to register. A young woman welcomed the two girls from behind the counter. «Good morning, girls! How can I help you?» she greeted them. «Good morning!» the two girls greeted me. «We're here to participate in the Showcase.» Serena added shortly after. «I figured.» the woman replied. «You're lucky. Registrations close soon.» Serena smiled, while Anita looked a bit worried. If it had been up to her... «To register, I need your Trainer cards.» The two girls placed their Smart Rotom on the counter. The woman took them one by one and scanned the QR codes. «Done. Now give me a moment to prepare your passes.» A strange noise came from the booth where the woman was. After about thirty seconds, the woman returned the devices to the two girls and handed them their passes.
«Here are your passes. They will allow you to participate in all the Showcases in the Unova region.» Anita forced a smile. The woman looked more closely at Serena. «It won't be easy here, not even for you.» The girl smiled. «That's not a problem. I like challenges.» Replied the Kalos native. «No... you don't understand.» The woman responded. «You'll be lucky if you manage to get votes from your own boys!» She added. «You'll see why later.»
The two girls exchanged a quick glance. "What does she mean? If she means the level of the Performers is high, that's not a problem. But... from her tone..." Serena thought.
«If you mean the Performers are very strong, then we'll just have to train harder. It's not a problem. Right?» Serena asked. «Yes... it's not a problem... it's not a problem...» The younger Trainer replied.
The four left the building and headed to a fast food place nearby. It was practically lunchtime, but the place was almost empty.
After lunch, and after Ash sent some of his Pokémon to Professor Oak's lab and retrieved others, the group headed back to the Pokémon Center. They could use the Pokémon Center's battlefields to train. «Since Anita has been taken by Serena... how about training with me?» Carlos suggested to Ash.
«Alright. But this time, I want you and Umbreon to really give it your all.» Ash replied. "Wait, what?" Carlos thought. "I get that he's the Champion and demands a lot, but isn't he overdoing it?" Carlos wondered. "Yet, he doesn't act like this with Anita," he thought soon after. «Is everything okay?» Ash asked.
"Maybe he noticed how I froze," Carlos thought. «Yes... everything's fine. We can start.» The boy replied. «I wonder which Pokémon you'll use this time!» Carlos seemed rather enthusiastic.
«None.» Ash replied. Carlos was stunned by the Champion's words. «What do you mean by none?» The boy asked, quite perplexed. «You see... sometimes, to become strong you need to start from the basics.» Ash replied. Carlos still didn't understand. How could he start from the basics? For the second time in just a few moments, Ash had completely caught him off guard.
«If I remember correctly...» Ash continued «Your Umbreon knows Quick Attack, Shadow Ball, Swift, and Dark Pulse.» Carlos gave a small nod.
«Today we'll work on perfecting them. I've had the chance to see you battle and even battle against you. And I've realized that if you want to become strong, you need to start from the basics.» Ash explained. «But Anita...» Carlos attempted to argue. «I have a training plan for her too, but let's focus on us for now.» Ash replied. Carlos felt a bit down. He didn't expect such a response.
«Alright...» The boy replied, taking Umbreon's Poké Ball from his bag. «Come out!» The boy threw his Pokémon's Poké Ball. «Come out! We have some training to do!» The Moonlight Pokémon emerged from the boy's Poké Ball and materialized in front of him. «You look in good shape!» He commented.
The Pokémon looked around, then turned to his Trainer. Something seemed strange. He had said they were going to train, but... his opponent was missing.
«You see...» Carlos tried to explain. «Ash wants us to do a very special training. For now, you won't need an opponent.» The Pokémon seemed satisfied with the explanation.
«Very well.» Ash began. «Let's start by perfecting Quick Attack. Pikachu, would you like to give an example?» The Mouse Pokémon leaped from the boy's shoulder and started running at high speed, jumping left and right.
He was so fast he was almost invisible. «Now that's a Quick Attack!» Carlos commented. «Umbreon... do you think you can do it?» The Pokémon tried to keep up with Pikachu, but couldn't manage it.
It seemed he was struggling immensely just to keep up. Ash shook his head. «I think you can do better. I feel it.» Ash encouraged. The Moonlight Pokémon tried again. Even this time, he struggled to keep up with Pikachu. In less than a second, the Mouse Pokémon was ahead by half a dozen jumps compared to Carlos's Pokémon.
«Look!» Ash commented. «He's already improved from before.» Carlos looked at Ash like he was an alien. The improvement had been practically imperceptible. Why celebrate it so much?
Third attempt. Another imperceptible improvement. After two seconds, the Moonlight Pokémon was behind his opponent by eleven jumps. «Still not there.» Carlos commented, rather disappointed.
«Don't say that!» Ash tried to reassure him. «Lumiose City wasn't built in a day.» "Now he's getting philosophical," Carlos thought. «What do you mean?» He asked.
«You simply can't expect to become strong with just one training session, just like you can't build a metropolis in a single day. Umbreon lacks nothing to become strong. He just needs to train.» Ash replied.
Carlos didn't respond. Ash had no reason to lie to him. «Now we can continue.»
The training resumed, with the Moonlight Pokémon showing further, small improvements.
«For now, this will do.» Ash stopped him. «But how?» Carlos replied. «Training the same thing all the time doesn't always yield results. We can focus on the other moves as well. Although to do so, we'll need some materials. Do you know if there's a DIY store and a sports shop nearby?» Ash asked, leaving Carlos stunned once again. "What is he planning?" Carlos thought while searching for the locations on his Smart Rotom.
«Here they are! They're not too far from here.» Carlos returned his Umbreon to the Poké Ball. «Now rest a bit. Then we'll continue training.» While the two boys went to buy the materials, the girls were busy. «Now that I've signed up... can you explain to me what a Showcase really involves? I've seen them on TV and I've seen you perform, but I still have some doubts.» Anita explained. «Tell me everything.» The older girl replied. «I don't even know where to start... For example, you Performers have beautiful outfits... but I only have travel clothes... I don't even have a pair of heels, and if I did, I'd walk like a Slaking... and then... you only told me about the second phase of the Showcases? What about the first? It seemed so different each time...» Serena motioned for her friend to calm down. «The outfit is not a problem. Modestly, I'm good with a needle and thread. I took lessons from Valérie...» Anita couldn't believe it. «You mean Valérie... the Gym Leader of Laverre City?» «In person.» The Kalos native replied. «As for the shoes... I think that just takes some practice. But for now, let's focus on the performance. As for the first phase, it changes in every Showcase, it's a surprise. It could be a hairstyling challenge, a Pokémon quiz, you might have to make Poké Puffs or who knows what else. The second phase is the same everywhere. And, as I told you, it's very similar to the performance round of Pokémon Contests. Personally, I've never worked with a Flying-type Pokémon, but it shouldn't be too difficult.» She explained.
"That's not very reassuring," Anita thought. «Come out, Vivillon!» The girl took the Poké Ball of the Scale Pokémon from her bag and threw it, allowing her Pokémon to come out.
«I'd say we can start. Remember, this will be your first themed performance, so it's better to avoid overly elaborate acts. We need to do something beautiful, but we shouldn't bite off more than we can chew.» Serena scanned her friend's Pokémon with her Smart Rotom. «Very well... I already have some ideas...» Anita turned to Serena. «Already?» Anita didn't realize she had spoken out loud. «Let's see how it goes. Vivillon! Create some
Energy Balls!» Serena ordered. The Pokémon, after a brief hesitation, due to not being commanded by Anita, followed the directive of the Kalos native. From the upper part of its body, it generated a series of green energy spheres, resembling a sort of eye. They were suspended in the air.
«And now hit them with Air Slash!» From the Pokémon's wings, thin blades of air were generated, striking the energy spheres and causing them to explode into numerous small, greenish sparks. «Excellent! Now use Sleep Powder!» From the Pokémon's wings, a thin, golden powder was released, merging with the earlier sparks. «And now control them with Psychic!» The Pokémon's body illuminated with a soft pink light that soon enveloped all the fragments floating in the air.
«Now let's have some fun! Create whatever you wish!» The Pokémon gathered the fragments around its wings, creating the illusion of having enormous wings. Shortly after, it assembled everything into a large spiral, which, reflecting the light, resembled a galaxy.
«Oh! Forgive me!» Serena apologized. «I got a little carried away and...» The performer tried to explain. «Not at all! You were incredible! It felt like Vivillon had always been your Pokémon! I wonder what your secret is.» Anita responded. «No
secret. I just think about what could make the people watching happy, what could make them smile. It's a lesson I only learned after a long time.» she replied.
Meanwhile, the two boys had returned from their shopping. At the DIY store, they had bought square boards, about one meter high and wide. They also bought smaller boards and nails to create supports, and a hammer to assemble the structure. At the sporting goods store, they had bought several target sheets, like those used for archery. «I wonder what you have in mind.» Carlos commented, rather curious.
«You'll see, you'll see. Just give me a hand to set them up.» Ash replied. As soon as they arrived at the battle field, they placed the materials they had brought. «Now let's get to work!» he encouraged.
The two began setting up the board structures they had bought. They had no instructions to follow. It was all in Ash's head. In no time, the project took shape. Carlos nearly hammered his fingers a couple of times, but everything else went smoothly. Within half an hour, all six targets were constructed.
The girls had watched part of the process and were both curious about what Ash intended to do. Serena was used to his training methods, but for Anita, it was still a novelty. As soon as the targets were ready, the training could resume. «I still don't understand what you want to do with these things, but okay... you're the master.» Carlos commented.
«The reason we built these is very simple.» Ash replied. «Besides Quick Attack, Umbreon also knows Dark Pulse, Swift, and Shadow Ball.» he explained. «Right. But I still don't get it.» Carlos responded. Ash was a bit disappointed; it was usually him who didn't grasp things. «Moves like Dark Pulse, Shadow Ball, and Swift allow for long-distance battling, but to do that, you need to work a lot on precision. The targets are for this exact purpose.» Finally, Carlos understood Ash's intentions.
«For now, we won't focus on power, but on precision. It's useless to have great power if you can't control it.» he explained. Carlos simply nodded. «Now we'll give you a little demonstration.» Ash took out the Poké Ball of his Gengar. «Let's show them a little demo! Try to hit one of those targets with Shadow Ball from as far as you can!» The Shadow Pokémon moved several meters away from the targets. «But isn't that a bit too far?» Carlos commented. «Just watch.» Ash replied. «Go with Shadow Ball!» The Pokémon generated a large sphere of dark energy from one of its arms, purplish in color. It was surrounded by lighter-colored energy sparks that almost looked like electrical discharges. The Pokémon threw the sphere with immense force and hit the target's center perfectly, causing it to explode.
«What power!» Carlos commented, amused. «Geghahahaha!» The Pokémon couldn't hold back a laugh. «What are you waiting for? It's your turn!» Ash encouraged them. «Okay! Come out!» Carlos sent his Umbreon back onto the field. «Let's try it!» he encouraged. «It's best not to start too far.» Ash guided. «Where you are now is fine.» he added shortly after. «Alright!» Carlos responded. «Are you ready?» he asked his Pokémon. «Eon!» it replied. Yes. It felt ready.
«Then use Shadow Ball! Try to aim at the target!» The Pokémon generated a purplish energy sphere from its mouth, similar to the one generated by Gengar. It tried to throw it at one of the targets. The energy sphere barely hit the edge of the target. «Come on, don't get discouraged! Try again!» Ash encouraged them.
«Alright! Let's try again! Use Shadow Ball! But this time, aim carefully!» The Pokémon tried to concentrate, but even this time, it didn't achieve great results. «Don't get disheartened! I'm sure you can do it!» Ash encouraged them again.
Meanwhile, the girls had taken a little break and were watching the two boys during the peculiar training session. They were sitting on a bench. Serena was brushing her Delphox. Meanwhile, not far from their Trainer, Oshawott and Herdier were playing. Vivillon, however, kept to itself, fluttering around the two girls.
The peaceful scene was interrupted when a gigantic black SUV stopped in front of the Pokémon Center. Completely black. Not a hint of chrome or anything that could lighten the heavy line of that behemoth. The left door of the giant opened, and an elderly man in his sixties stepped out. White hair, glasses. He was wearing a dark blue uniform with some decorations, including a matching hat and brown shoes. The man walked around the vehicle and opened the rear right door. A small staircase emerged from the lower part of the vehicle to facilitate the descent of whoever was on board.
«What are you waiting for?» A shrill and annoying voice came from the back of the SUV. «Give me a hand to get down!» The man stepped aside slightly. «Right away, Miss Mildred!» The man assisted a young girl, not very tall and of medium build. She had dark brown hair with blue tips. She was wearing a pink blouse and a brown skirt. She had green shoes with a small heel. «Hey! Not like that! You're pulling too hard! I might fall!» she complained. «I apologize, Miss!» the man replied patiently.
The three steps were over, and now the two were heading towards the Pokémon Center. «Did you do what you had to for the Showcases?» she asked. «Yes, Miss. The audience will have eyes only for you, believe me.» the girl simply nodded.
The girls, who had immediately identified who they would be dealing with, deliberately ignored her. The boys, initially, didn't even notice her presence, continuing the training they had started earlier. The girl and the driver had almost reached the entrance of the Pokémon Center. As they did so, they passed near the battle field where the two boys were training. Initially, Mildred ignored Ash, focusing on Carlos and his Umbreon. «If I were you, I'd take Umbreon to an eye doctor!» Carlos was grabbed by Ash by the shoulder. «Raising your hands is immature. Challenge her to a battle instead.» he suggested. «As you wish! If that's the case, then you have no reason to refuse a battle.» Carlos proposed. «Bah... first of all, how dare you address me informally? No one gave you permission to do so.» she replied. «And besides... I don't think you're a Champion like Ash Ketchum.» she replied, annoyed. «Here I am. In person!» Ash introduced himself.
«Let's do this, Ash. Let's battle. If you win, I'll challenge your friend and his blind Umbreon. For now, he can be the referee... if he's up to it.» The girl threw down the gauntlet to Ash. Despite knowing who he was dealing with, Ash decided to teach her a lesson.
«Pikachu, are you ready to battle?» asked the Trainer. The Mouse Pokémon jumped off the boy's shoulder and took its place on the field.
«So you chose your Pikachu, huh? Then I choose you! Hattrem!» From the Chic Ball, a special Poké Ball primarily black with orange bands, emerged a Pokémon with a round face and a very narrow neck that widened toward the bottom. It seemed to wear a bumpy skirt hiding small, slender, light blue feet. Its entire body, except for the white "chest," was pig-pink. Its slender pink arms supported the enormous light blue hat. The Pokémon's hat was so disproportionate that it made the Pokémon wobble, preventing it from touching the ground. The large hat, resembling a witch's hat, was decorated with white polka dots of various sizes. It rested on the ground thanks to light blue locks connected to the hat by round pink constrictions. At the tip was a white lightning bolt-like shape, reminiscent of a witch's hat. Part of the light blue hat shaded from dark pink to bubblegum pink. It had black eyes with white pupils and a pinkish reflection.
Carlos scanned the creature with his Rotom Smart.
«Hattrem. Serene Pokémon. Psychic type. Silences opponents by striking them with the tassels on the sides of its head. It's strong enough to knock out a professional boxer with one blow. Known moves: Psybeam, Brutal Swing, Magical Leaf, Swift.» Carlos put his Rotom Smart back in his pouch.
«Let's start! Hattrem, use Brutal Swing!» The Pokémon started spinning on itself. The tassels glowed red and spun at high speed.
«Quick, Pikachu! Use Iron Tail!» ordered Ash. The Pokémon ran, its tail glowing white, becoming hard as steel and sharp as a sword. The Pokémon's spinning abruptly stopped.
«Oh no!» commented the girl. «Use Psybeam!» From the front of the Pokémon's body, a pinkish energy beam began to form.
«Counter with Electro Web!» ordered Ash. From the Pokémon's tail, a small web of electricity generated and was thrown against the opponent's attack. The web expanded, enveloping the opponent's attack and then the Pokémon.
«Break free!» ordered the girl. The Pokémon generated greenish-purple leaves from under its braids, trying to break the electrified web. Without success.
«Now let's get serious! Use Quick Attack!» ordered Ash. Pikachu started running at high speed, jumping from side to side until it reached the opponent, sending it flying into the air.
«Now use Thunderbolt!» From the Pokémon's cheeks, small electric discharges grew larger, enveloping the Pokémon's body. The discharge, in a fraction of a second, engulfed the opponent, causing it to fall to the ground.
«Hattrem is unable to battle. The winner is Pikachu, and thus the winner of the battle is Ash!» Carlos declared, pointing to the Pokémon lying on the ground, unable to continue the fight.
«Is this any way to behave? You're a Champion, and I'm just a Performer! Is this how you treat people?» she tried to scold him.
«I don't disrespect anyone. Battling seriously is our way of respecting our opponents.» Ash responded.
The girl seemed to ignore his words. «If that's the case, I won't battle your friend.» she said, annoyed, before heading into the Pokémon Center.
«Thank goodness not all Performers are like her!» commented Anita.
«She's an exception. I've had many rivals, but none were as haughty or arrogant.» replied Serena. «Now, let's get back to our training!»
The girls resumed their training, while the boys decided to take a short break.
After about fifteen minutes, the girl, accompanied by her driver, exited the Pokémon Center. She still seemed to be upset about the defeat. From her expression, it seemed she hadn't finished speaking her mind.
«So, you're a performer, huh?» she addressed Anita. «Dressed so sloppily... and then? Don't you think you can make it on your own? Do you really need a mentor like her? The finalist of the Kalos Professional Category?» She pointed to Serena.
«She deserves it. She continuously strives to improve every moment. That's no small feat.» Serena responded.
«And of all Pokémon, you chose one as sloppy and sad as Vivillon! Is that the best you can aim for?» she commented.
«By that logic, the best you can aim for is Rellor.» Carlos shot back.
The girl stomped her feet and walked away, escorted by her driver. «I'll ruin all of your careers!» she shouted back at them.
«Finally, she's gone.» sighed Carlos.
«Don't celebrate too soon.» Serena warned. «She's participating in the Showcase. And, I fear this might not be an honest competition.»
The next day, the two girls woke up early to finally focus on Anita's dress. They headed to the fabric store. It had just opened, so they were the first customers. Serena already had a dress design in mind for her friend. After purchasing the necessary fabrics, they went to the shoe store. Even in this case, the Kalos native knew what shoes would match the dress. She just hoped they were available in that small store, which, unlike the fabric store, was not very well stocked.
There were several shelves full of shoes, but most of them were sports shoes. The more elegant ones were very few. Fortunately, there was a pair very similar to what she had in mind. Finding the right size, they went to pay at the counter.
They then went to a jewelry store, where they bought earrings, a necklace, and bracelets. Serena thought they were perfect for her friend and completed the outfit she had in mind.
Anita also had to endure the ordeal of getting her ears pierced. She let out a scream so loud it startled a colony of Pidove living nearby.
The two girls, with their purchases, did not return to the Pokémon Center but went to a self-service tailor shop. It was a place equipped with all the materials and devices to work on clothes. There was also staff available to assist anyone working on their garments. The service was offered at a very affordable cost, and the place was quite popular in town. For this reason, it was quite strange to find it empty, especially during a period like the Showcase.
As soon as they entered, the two girls were immediately greeted by a young woman in a light brown uniform. «Welcome!» she greeted them. «Let me take you to a workstation.» she invited them to follow her. Passing through the entrance, they entered the actual workshop. Several tables were lined up against the walls. Each had all the necessary tools: measuring tape, pattern paper, chalk for transferring patterns onto fabric, and a professional sewing machine. «Do you need any help?» she asked.
«Not for now, but we'll call you as soon as we need anything. My name is Serena.» Serena replied.
The two girls took off their jackets and bags, placing the shopping bags on the floor. «I better get to work right away.» Serena took the measuring tape from the workbench and started taking measurements, noting them down. Height, circumference, shoulders, arms, legs... she took every possible measurement multiple times. She wanted to be sure of the result. She then moved on to the paper patterns and then to the fabric. Several hours later, the provisional dress was ready. Serena had only taken a short break to eat something. Even during the short lunch break, she had found something to do.
«The provisional dress is almost ready. Just a few more stitches and you can try it on.» Anita simply smiled. «You're amazing!» she complimented her.
«The dress will surely fit well, but I'm not so sure about the heels. I told you before, when I walk in heels, I look like a Slaking.» Anita said.
Silence fell in the room for a few moments. «I designed this dress to match shoes like the ones we bought. Not using them would be a real shame.» Serena replied. «Let's at least give it a try.»
Anita, still not very convinced, took off her shoes and put on the newly bought heels. «They're not so bad!» she commented.
«Now try walking!» Serena encouraged her. Anita began to take her first steps, not without difficulty. She wobbled from side to side, walking with uncertain steps. «Do you understand what I mean when I say I look like a Slaking?» The girl, to keep from losing her balance, had to lean on one of the tables to avoid falling. «You need to stay calm. If you panic, it will only get worse!» Serena suggested as she resumed her work. «I also had trouble at the beginning. I just practiced over and over. There are no other solutions.» Anita didn't seem very convinced. She tried to get up again and take a few more steps, still without much success. «Come on! Keep going!» Serena urged without even looking up from her work. «Just a few more minutes and you can try it on.» Anita tried to smile. «Alright.»
Ten minutes later, the dress, with temporary stitching, was ready. «If you want, you can start trying it on.» Serena called out to her friend, who had wandered several steps away. «Coming!» With small and slow steps, but already with a less shaky gait, Anita reached the Kalos native. «Good, now go to the fitting room so you can put on the dress as you'll wear it tomorrow.» Anita was taken aback. «But we're alone now. And besides, just don't look at me and I can change here.» Serena's response was swift. «In the fitting room, you'll be alone. So it's better if you do everything by yourself.» Anita didn't feel like arguing and headed to the fitting room.
She took off her shoes, from which her feet were already pleading for mercy, her jeans, the T-shirt she was wearing, and her undershirt. «I'm ready!» She called out to Serena. The Kalos native quickly joined her, holding the dress with its temporary stitching.
«Here it is!» She handed it through an opening in the fitting room curtain. «Be careful how you put it on! It's not final yet.»
She reminded her again. After a few minutes, Anita had the dress on. «Done!» She announced. «Then you can come out so I can see if there are any adjustments to make. And there are a couple of details missing.» No response. «Is everything okay?» Serena insisted. «Yes. It's just that I'm afraid it's a bit too short and too low-cut!» Anita sounded quite embarrassed. «You won't be embarrassed to be seen by me!» Serena tried to encourage her. «Alright!» Anita stepped out of the fitting room wearing the dress. Serena handed her the gloves and waited for her to put them on. «I admit I didn't sew the gloves, I just decorated them.» Serena put a hand over her mouth. Then she helped her friend put on the final accessory of the outfit, a large bow to tie at the waist. «Now look at yourself!» Serena invited. «Wow! You're really amazing! It's beautiful!» Anita complimented. «I just fear it's short and low-cut. And I'm embarrassed. I'm afraid people will judge me and...» Anita began to get paranoid. «What are you talking about!» Serena scolded. «You're beautiful.» She complimented.
Anita blushed at the compliment. «Now, though, I need to finish sewing.» Serena reminded her.
Anita went back into the fitting room and changed again, handing the dress back to Serena who, without hesitation, resumed her work, making the final stitches.
Valérie had taught her how to make easily removable final stitches so she could make adjustments later if needed. After completing this phase, the dress was finally ready, in record time.
«Ta-dah! The dress is ready!» Serena was thrilled with her work. «Just to be sure, you should try it on again.» Serena invited her friend. Anita didn't resist. «It's perfect!» Anita complimented. «Now, though, try it on with the shoes we bought. Then we'll think about the jewelry.» Anita obeyed. After once again putting on those cursed shoes, she continued by putting on the necklace and earrings. Once ready, she stepped out of the fitting room. «You look fantastic!» Serena complimented again. «You say that just to make me feel better.» She replied. «I would never!» Serena responded. «If you really don't trust me, we can ask Rossa.» Anita remained silent. Perhaps the opinion of a complete stranger would help her feel more at ease?
Anyway, Serena had called Rossa to get her opinion. After a few minutes, the woman joined the two girls. Noticing Anita with the perfectly worn dress and jewelry, she expressed her surprise. «How can I help you? Your friend looks beautiful in that dress. It suits her divinely... I wonder what the problem is...» She asked. «No problem. We just wanted an outside opinion.» Serena replied. «I see. Oh... by the way... considering the excellent work you've done... I'd like to propose you collaborate with us. We could expand our services to custom-tailored dresses.» She offered. «I'm sorry, but I can't accept right now. For now, I prefer to focus on the Varieties.» Serena replied without hesitation. «Alright. As you wish.» She answered.
Anita changed back into her regular clothes. In doing so, she felt a sensation. It was as if a switch had been flipped. Was this what Serena felt every time she went on stage? Had she just been overthinking?
In any case, the two girls returned to the counter to pay. They were about to leave but were stopped by Rossa. «You forgot the box!» The woman knelt and took a white box from one of the desk compartments. The box bore the logo of the sewing workshop. «You can put the dress in here.» She recommended.
The two girls followed her advice. Once the dress was in the box, they left. It was almost sunset by the time they got out.
As they exited the store, the two girls started chatting.
«I wonder what the boys have been up to in our absence.» Anita wondered. «What do you think?» Serena replied. Anita remained silent. She had no idea. «I imagine they're training.» Serena replied. «What do you think, should we show the dress to the boys?» Anita asked, trying to change the subject. «I want it to be a surprise. The Variety is tomorrow afternoon. Tomorrow morning we'll train again.» Serena replied. Anita just nodded. «I have a question...» Anita said. «Go ahead, don't hesitate.» Serena replied. «I'm in this now, I can't turn back, but can you tell me why you insisted so much on me participating in the Variety?» Anita asked. «It may seem strange, but neither in Varieties nor in contests have I ever debuted alone. I always had someone I knew by my side. It was reassuring. Sure. I didn't win the first Variety I participated in, nor the first contest I participated in. But they were still valuable experiences. Perhaps more than the victories.» Anita was puzzled. She didn't know how to respond. «If you win. You've won. In the case of Varieties, the audience has judged your performance and that of your Pokémon. In the case of Contests, the judges have evaluated your and your Pokémon's work. You know you've won. If you lose, however, you ask yourself 'why did we lose?' or 'What did we do wrong?' or 'What did my opponent do better than me?'» Anita thought for a moment. «It's not that different from gym battles. From what I've experienced.» «Exactly!» Serena replied.
Meanwhile, the girls had arrived in front of the Pokémon Center. And, as predicted, the two boys were in the middle of training. The progress of the boy's Umbreon was noticeable.
The next day, the two girls continued their training. Anita seemed quite nervous. Maybe even more than before. While Serena was working with Delphox, Sylveon, and Pancham, her Lilligant was watching nervously. «I feel a bit like you.» Anita spoke to her friend's Pokémon. «Without someone I trust, I feel lost.» «Gant?» The Pokémon looked quite puzzled. «With the help of our friends, we can overcome our fears. But alone we'll never make it.»
The four had lunch very early and headed to the theater where the Variety would take place. «I'd like Lilligant to watch the Variety.» Serena handed Ash her Pokémon's Poké Ball. «I know what happened to Sylveon when she was still an Eevee. I don't want to repeat the same mistake. If she panics...» Serena explained. «I understand.» Ash replied.
«Here you are, girls.» They were greeted by the same woman who had registered them for the Variety a few days earlier. «Follow me.» She invited them.
«As for you two, boys, well. The directions to the stands are posted on the walls. You can't miss them.» She explained. Ash and Carlos followed the directions and, although they were confusing and often contradictory, the two managed to reach the stands. They were the first to arrive. «This theater reminds me a bit of the house that drives you mad, if you know what I mean.» Carlos tried to make a joke. «Sure, sure. I think the other spectators got lost trying to get here.» Ash replied.
The two boys took their seats in the stands, in one of the middle rows, halfway up. Those seats provided an excellent view of the stage. «OUCH!» Carlos tried to sit down, but something jabbed him in the butt. «Who the heck puts spikes on the seats?» Carlos complained. Noticing his friend's mistake, Ash checked his chair before sitting down.
It was a sort of clear plastic marker. Inside, there was a piece of paper with a QR code and a message. "Scan the code and follow the instructions to vote for the best Performer." Ash scanned the QR code with his Smart Rotom. A website opened on the device's screen. «That thing you're sitting on is for voting for the Performers.» Ash explained. «Let me do it too!» Carlos responded. He also scanned the QR code.
Like Ash, a webpage opened for him.
"To vote for the best Performer, starting this year in the Unova region, you will use the Poké Link app. Each spectator can register their profile on the app and confirm their identity with their Trainer Card to avoid voting from fake profiles. You can download the app at this link."
Ash read aloud, softly. For now, he decided not to download the app and continued reading.
"To register your document, go to profile settings, then to the identity verification section. This way, you can log in to the voting site. The site is in the bio of the varietaunimaoffical account, which you can access from the second link. Only those with a profile linked to an identity document will be able to log in and vote." He concluded.
While the two boys downloaded the app and verified their documents, the stands began to fill up.
Both were quite surprised at how quickly the process had gone.
Meanwhile, the two girls, in their respective dressing rooms, were beginning to get ready and prepare their Pokémon. They still had no idea what they would have to do in the first round. For Serena, it was quite strange. Usually, Performers were informed several hours in advance to prepare.
"Things must work differently in Unova," she thought, not giving the matter much weight. After all, there were still two hours to go until the start. It was a tolerable delay.
Not knowing what the first round would be, she decided to adorn her Sylveon, the Pokémon she considered a wildcard, with several colorful ribbons.
Sylveon had shown on many occasions to be very adept at adapting to different situations, so Serena decided to reward her. «And there we go!» The native of Kalos finished placing the last ribbon on her Pokémon.
Just forty-five minutes remained, and still, no one knew what the trial would consist of when finally, something happened. Someone knocked on Serena's dressing room door. «May I come in?» they asked. «Yes, just a moment!» she replied. She took Sylveon's Poké Ball and returned her inside. It might have been a rival, and she didn't want to reveal her plans. She opened the door and realized her precaution was unnecessary. The person who knocked was the same woman who had handled the registration and had accompanied her and Anita to the dressing rooms.
She held a number of paper envelopes. She handed one to Serena. «You'll need this for the themed performance.» With that, she left to distribute the envelopes to the remaining performers.
Serena hoped, not so much for herself but for her friend, that the envelope's contents would reveal what the themed performance would be.
She opened the envelope and took out its contents. Besides the usual key pin to be attached to the dress for the second round, necessary to determine the winner, there was also a red overcoat and a hat. There was also a pink-colored key pin.
«Alright! So, it's going to be a Pokémon quiz.» She commented. «If they're like the ones in Kalos...» she said while putting on the overcoat and hat. She proceeded down the corridor until she reached the room where the performers were to meet before performing. Only then would the performers discover their turns.
«Hey! Blondie!» A voice made the girl stop. Serena turned sharply. «Don't call me Blondie!» Serena turned sharply. She locked eyes with a girl dressed in black. Elegant and covering. She still hadn't put on the overcoat or the hat. In fact, she wore a hat of her own. Also black.
The girl in black took off her hat, revealing her black hair, styled in an elaborate updo. She placed her hat in front of her waist. «I apologize. I didn't recognize you.» She bowed deeply.
«Nice to meet you. My name is Abigail. But please, call me Abby.» She introduced herself. «Nice to meet you, Serena.» Serena offered her hand. Abby did the same. «I certainly didn't expect to find you here.» She tried to make conversation. «I mean... a performer and coordinator of your level, here among us... who are debutants or... almost.» She added. «I wanted to pick up where I left off.» The Kalos native replied. «I... instead... am here to keep a promise.» The girl in black replied. «You... are already used to these places. For me, it's the first time. I wonder how many contests or showcases you must have participated in before this...» She added shortly after. «Each time feels like the first.» Replied the experienced Performer. «For me, it truly is the first time.» The girl slipped her hand into her dress. «My mother gave me this.» The girl showed Serena an old Princess Key. «It's like a good luck charm.» She explained. «It's her first Princess Key.» Serena motioned for the girl to continue. «I promised my mother that I would succeed where she had failed. She so wanted to see me here. But she passed away before she could. She wanted at least her Pokémon to perform with me.» The girl's eyes began to fill with tears.
Abby was a girl like any other. A few months earlier, she had just graduated from Trainer School. She was a bit jealous of her classmates. They had all decided what they would do after graduation.
Some of her classmates would become Performers. Others would pursue Gym battles, like most of their classmates. A few would leave Unova to embark on a journey abroad. Her best friend, Elena, would participate in an exchange program to continue her studies in the distant Sinnoh region.
She had wanted to follow her and could have, but she couldn't do otherwise, even with the knowledge that several months would pass.
The last few years of her life had not been easy. Her father had been brutally killed in a terrorist attack a few years earlier. By mistake. He had the misfortune of driving the same car model as a well-known politician in the Unova region. Even the license plate number was very similar. The man, an ordinary employee, died instantly. The newspapers talked about it for a long time.
Some journalists had even made rather serious accusations against the man, forcing the girl's family to take several legal actions.
Her mother had always done everything to ensure the girl lacked nothing. She had set aside all the compensation money given to her after her husband's death. "This way, you'll have a solid foundation for your future," her mother had told her.
The girl's mother had to find a job. Several years earlier, she had attempted to climb to the throne of the Unova Queen, but due to the pregnancy, she had to retire from the scene.
Without the father's affection, everyday life had become extremely difficult for Abby. Not only at home, where she had to help her mother more with household chores and errands or because she had to prepare meals, but especially at school.
She was often accused that being fatherless gave her advantages in evaluations or similar things, or worse, she was accused of bribing the teachers. Few did not accuse her, and some even defended her.
Abby barely had time to process her father's death when another tragedy befell her loved ones. Initially, it was very mild.
Her mother wasn't home on the days she usually spent with her. "We have a lot of work these days, so they asked us to come in even when we should be off," she justified herself.
In the beginning, Abby didn't struggle to believe her. Her mother used the same excuse for the days she came home late in the evening.
She associated her mother's weakness and tiredness with working hard, and her mother didn't say anything to contradict her. Abby began to get suspicious only after several months.
Her mother always used the excuse of too much work. However, each day, she returned later and later. Some days she barely had time to get home before she had to leave again.
Suspicious, on one of the last days of school, Abby decided to skip. She knew exactly where her mother's office was. It was an anonymous building, not far from the Pokémon Variety Theater.
The Trainer School was on the other side of town.
Recently, her mother no longer walked to work but drove instead. This also made her quite suspicious. Her mother had
always been a fan of walking and the "Use the car as little as possible" philosophy.
Abby, aware of the risks, reached the office. She was very careful not to be seen. She looked carefully at all the parked cars but didn't recognize her mother's.
Despite her great care, she was recognized by one of her mother's colleagues. «Hi, Abby!» She called out. «Shouldn't you be at school?» She asked. Abby didn't respond, simply running away.
Abby returned home, but her mother didn't arrive until several hours later. It was almost sunset. Abby was sitting on the couch, watching TV. Her mother sat next to her.
She was dressed as if she had just come from work, in a dark blue suit and her usual low-heeled shoes. It was clear that the suit was too large for her.
Recently, the woman, already quite thin, had lost even more weight. «I heard what you did.» The woman began. Abby seemed a bit frightened. «I understand that you were worried. You had every reason to be. You're grown up; you're almost sixteen. In a few months, you'll become a Trainer and start your journey. And I promise I'll be there with you.» Abby was taken aback. She didn't know what to say. «What?» She asked.
«I tried to keep it from you. I thought it was the right choice. But you managed to discover everything. For some time now, I've been suffering from an incurable disease. One day, I felt ill at work and left to go to the emergency room.
I had some tests done, and the doctors noticed something was wrong. They prescribed several tests to ensure it was a false alarm. Unfortunately, it wasn't.» Since then, they put me under observation, and I had to go to the hospital almost every day. Over time, the situation worsened. I still don't know how many days they will allow me to drive or spend time at home.» She recounted.
Abby didn't know what to do. She squeezed her mother's hand as tightly as she could. Not only had she lost her father, but now she was about to lose her too.
Time passed, and Abby's mother's health worsened further. Now the woman was bedridden in the hospital. School was over, and instead of enjoying the summer vacation before starting her Pokémon journey, Abby spent all the time she could with her mother. All the time she hadn't been able to spend in previous months.
Abby still had two months to go before turning sixteen. As usual, she had gone to visit her mother.
She entered the woman's room, as she did every day. The room was in perfect order. The TV was off. There were books on the nightstand. On the dresser, there was an elegant box. It was the first time Abby had seen it.
«Abby!» The woman began, in a choked, almost imperceptible voice, as soon as she saw her daughter. «The doctors have confirmed it. I won't be here the day you become a Trainer.» It seemed as if a chill had descended on the room. «I can't keep that promise. They've given me a week to live.» It seemed that pronouncing every word took immense effort. «That's why I asked my sister to bring that box.» Abby didn't understand. What did that box have to do with anything? «The request has been accepted.» She said. Abby still didn't understand. Was it one of the effects of the painkillers? «Professor Juniper has agreed to let you receive your first Pokémon early.» Abby remained in reverent silence.
«I have two things to ask of you.» She added shortly after. The daughter nodded slightly. «Tell me.» She replied. «I want you to succeed where I failed. I used to be a Pokémon Performer, but I never became the Unova Queen. I know I'm asking a lot. But I'm sure you can do it.» "Me... Unova Queen?" She only thought. She didn't feel suited for that role at all. «I also ask you to take care of my Pokémon. Please. Perform with them.
I know I'm asking a lot. But please. I know you're the only person who can do it.» She clasped her daughter's hand with both of hers. «You'll find everything in that box. Including my first Princess Key. It's a sort of good luck charm.» «But I...» BEEEEEEEEEP a loud alarm filled the room. «NURSE!»
Abby's eyes were filled with tears. Even Serena couldn't hold back. «I'm sure she would be proud of you.» Serena tried to reassure her. «But remember, the audience here is ruthless.» She warned, as she headed towards the room where the Performers would find out their turn during the performance.
«And you think that with this little story, you can really soften up your rivals?» a shrill and annoying voice was heard. «Leave her alone.» Serena replied. «Wait!» she whispered. «Where's Anita?» She made to approach her friend's dressing room when Abby stopped her. «Who's Anita?» she asked. «She's a friend of mine. It's her first time too.» Serena answered.
The native of Kalos knocked on her friend's dressing room door. «I'm ready!» Anita responded. «Do we have to perform already?» she asked. «Not yet, but they need to tell us the pairings.» Serena replied. Anita came out of the dressing room and immediately noticed the presence of a stranger. «So... you're Anita, right?» Abby asked. «Yes. Very nice to meet you.» the young trainer timidly extended her hand to the girl in black. «My name is Abigail, but please, call me Abby.» she introduced herself.
Before the two girls could get to know each other further, a voice over the loudspeakers informed the performers that they needed to gather in the main room. The three girls headed to the room where the drawing would take place. It was a fairly large, but rather sparse room with several sofas to sit on. In front of them was a small stage with a lottery drum. Next to the small device was the same woman who had registered the girls and then escorted them to the dressing rooms. «Here you all are.» she greeted. «Pick a number.» she invited them.
She walked around the room with a hat, like an offertory, allowing the girls to draw a slip of paper containing a number. Now that each performer had their number, the woman approached the lottery drum. «Now I will draw the first number. The performer with this number will be the first in Group A. The second number will be the first performer in Group B, and so on.» she explained. The girls took a quick look at the numbers they had drawn. They simply nodded. Those were the rules; they couldn't do anything but accept them.
The woman began to spin the lottery drum. Then, without looking, she drew a numbered ball. «Very well! The first performer in Group A is number 7!» A girl in the middle of the group stepped forward. The drawing continued. Serena was drawn as the second in Group A, Anita third in Group B, Abby fourth in Group C, and Mildred third in Group D. «As you might have guessed, the themed performance will be a Pokémon quiz.» the woman explained. «The structure of the first phase is very simple. We have already divided you into four groups of four. Each of you can use a single Pokémon. This Pokémon will have to complete an obstacle course to allow you to answer. As soon as the Pokémon completes the course, the corresponding performer can answer. The first performer to correctly answer three questions will move on to the Free Performance phase. If, within 30 seconds, she does not answer or answers incorrectly, the turn will pass to the second. Flying-type Pokémon are not allowed. If a performer's Pokémon attacks another, the performer will be disqualified. ALL CLEAR?» she asked, almost shouting. «Absolutely!» the girls replied.
Meanwhile, on the stage, the floor had sunk into the ground. «What's happening?» Carlos asked, rather curious. «You'll see.» Ash replied. The stage floor reemerged, completely transformed. On the previously empty dark wooden floor, there were now four stations, one for each performer. Just beyond, there was an obstacle course divided into three parts: a small slalom course with cones, a jumping course, and a climbing wall. Shortly after, all the lights went out, and some spotlights came on. Various colored smoke machines emitted smoke. A tall, thin man, dressed in a suit and tie, appeared. He wore a large black top hat and carried a large wooden and metal staff. At the top of it was a Klefki.
«Ladies and gentlemen! I am Peter, and I will be your guide for this spectacular Variety Show in the fantastic setting of
Eolea Town. In a few minutes, we will meet the performers who will be performing today. As you may have noticed from the stage, the themed performance will be a Pokémon quiz. The performers who correctly answer three questions before the others will move on to the next phase. But... let's get to know our contestants better!» The smoke on the stage grew much denser. «What's happening now?» Carlos asked. «They're coming.» Ash replied. «Lilligant! Come out! Serena is about to perform!» he invited her out of the Poké Ball. The Pokémon looked around, terrified. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people. Dozens of indistinct voices. She felt small. Small and alone. She was trembling heavily. «Don't worry. Serena will be here soon.» Ash tried to reassure her. Meanwhile, the first four performers, including Serena, had appeared on stage. Lilligant seemed happy to see her trainer, even from a distance.
«And here are our beautiful contestants!» Peter announced. «Our first contestant is Erina!» he indicated with the tip of his staff a girl with light brown hair and round glasses that hid splendid blue eyes. «Directly from the distant region of Kalos, Serena!» he indicated the Kalos native with his staff. «Third performer, Misha!» he pointed to a girl with red hair, cut in a bob slightly longer than Serena's. «The fourth contestant today is Christie!» he pointed to a girl with violet hair and brown eyes.
«Girls, if you're ready, release your Pokémon!» Peter invited. The four girls released their Pokémon from their respective Poké Balls. Erina had an Axew, Serena had her Sylveon, Misha had a Purrloin, and Christie had a Deerling. «Then we can begin! Now I will ask the question. Remember that, by regulation, your Pokémon can only start after I have finished the question.» the girls and their Pokémon made a small affirmative gesture.
«The question is as follows. The ability Fluffy makes Pokémon with it more resistant to contact moves, such as Bite or Tackle, but makes them more vulnerable to moves of which type?» An image of a Bewear and a Wooloo appeared on the screen behind the performers. The four Pokémon began to run, completing the course without too many difficulties. Axew seemed slightly delayed. In the second phase, Sylveon had accumulated a slight advantage, which she would then use in the next phase. In the end, the Kalos native's Pokémon was the first to arrive.
«Very well! Serena, your turn!» Peter invited her. «The answer is Fire.» the girl replied rather confidently. «And the answer is...» Peter paused briefly. «Correct!» Another brief pause. «And Performer Serena earns a point!» The audience erupted in a thunderous applause, terrifying Lilligant. «Hey! Where are you going!» A boy's voice was heard, seemingly chasing something or someone. It was not well-defined. «Stop! Or I'll put you back in the Poké Ball!» The voice grew closer. Moments later, a small feline Pokémon appeared in front of the boys. Its body was covered in light and dark green fur. Its ears were green on the outside, while the inner part was a paler green. On its chest was a tuft of fur. Around its eyes was a green patch resembling a leaf. It had two pointed teeth in its upper jaw, a fluffy tail, and small paws without visible toes.
«What Pokémon is that?» Carlos wondered, as he scanned it with his Smart Rotom. «Sprigatito, the Grass Cat Pokémon. Grass type. Male. The sweet scent it emits from its body enchants anyone nearby and intensifies when the Pokémon is exposed to sunlight. Known moves: Scratch, Quick Attack, Leafage. It is one of the starter Pokémon given to young trainers in the Paldea region.» Carlos put his device back in his pocket. «There you are!» A young man about twenty years old, slightly taller than Ash, approached Ash and Carlos, picking up the Grass Cat Pokémon. «I hope this little guy didn't cause you any trouble!» The Grass Cat Pokémon extended one of its claws and scratched the boy holding it. «What do you want?» the boy asked. The cat pointed one of its paws at Serena's Lilligant. «Meow!»
«So, you came here for her?» asked the boy, who had meanwhile let the Pokémon down. As he approached Serena's Pokémon, it began to play with its paws, emitting a sweet scent.
«Excuse me! I haven't even introduced myself!» The boy gave a slight bow. «My name is Oscar. Nice to meet you!» After finishing the introductions, Oscar sat down next to the boys and started watching the two Grass-type Pokémon. «I'm happy to see that my sister's Pokémon has found a friend.» he commented.
«Uh?» Carlos found all this rather strange.
«You see...» Oscar began. «My sister did a year of student exchange at a prestigious school in the Paldea region. A nice place, though quite remote. She was given a Sprigatito as her first Pokémon. While it gets along well with both me and her, we've never been able to make friends with other Pokémon.» He explained.
«Well, since you're the World Champion...» He addressed Ash. «Maybe you could give me some advice.»
Ash didn't know what to say.
«I'm not sure how to help you right off the bat. Friendship between Pokémon works just like it does between people. There are those who make friends quickly and those who take a long, long time. The same goes for Pokémon.» the boy said, petting his Pikachu. «The only advice I can give is not to force it. You'll see, with time, everything will get better.»
Oscar gave him a strange look. «Is that all?» he asked.
Ash scratched his head. «I'm not a Pokémon psychologist, but throughout my career as a Trainer, I've learned that rushing things is never a good choice.» he explained.
Meanwhile, more questions were being asked to the performers. The first was, «Which Pokémon evolve with the Metal Coat?» Serena had correctly answered, indicating Scyther and its evolution Scizor, and Onix and its evolution Steelix.
The second question, which Serena didn't answer but Christie did, was «Shelmet evolves in a very particular way, how?» The performer correctly explained how Shelmet evolves into Accelgor when traded with a Karrablast, and how Karrablast simultaneously evolves into Escavalier.
«And now the fifth question...» After the chat with Oscar, Ash and Carlos resumed watching the Variety Show. «Without counting Gigantamax forms and shiny variations, how many varieties of Alcremie are there?» Peter asked. This time, Serena didn't answer, but her rival Mischa did. «Sixty-three.» she correctly answered.
«Very well!» commented Peter. «We have two correct answers for Serena, one for Christie, and one for Mischa. Will the next question be the decisive one?» he asked. «We can proceed with the next question. What is the only Pokémon with more than one regional form?» The Pokémon race was closer than ever. In the end, it was Serena's Sylveon that came out on top.
«Alright! Serena, do you know the answer?» asked Peter. The Kalos native didn't hesitate for a second. «Meowth!» she replied.
«And the answer is correct!» The audience erupted into a loud applause. «This means the first performer to advance to the Free Performance stage is Performer Serena!» Peter announced. Another round of applause from the audience, joined by her competitors as well.
While the stage was being cleared and the TV station broadcasting the event went to a commercial break, the next four performers, including Anita, arrived. The young Trainer looked rather scared. That place and all those people made her terribly uncomfortable.
«And now let's give a warm welcome to another four wonderful performers!» The audience burst into a thunderous applause. «But let's get to know the contestants better!» The man pointed his cane at the first contestant, a girl with red hair and unusually purple eyes. «Introducing Wakaba, a debuting Performer from the distant Johto region! Just like the current Unova Queen... could this be a sign of good luck?» He then moved to the second contestant, a girl with light purple hair and eyes of the same color. «And now, please meet Heidi!» Another round of applause from the audience. «And now another debuting performer! Directly from the small town of Safflowerview... Anita!» Another round of applause from the audience. A few moments later, he introduced the fourth contestant, a girl with orange hair and amber eyes. «And here's the fourth contestant! Tara!» Following yet another round of applause from the audience, Peter invited the performers to send out their Pokémon. To comply with the rules, Anita had to send out another Pokémon, specifically her Oshawott.
As soon as it emerged from the Poké Ball, the Sea Otter Pokémon looked at its Trainer with a puzzled expression. «Sha?» The Water-type Pokémon felt just like its Trainer. Thrust into an unknown place that made it quite uncomfortable. «Maybe I should have warned you...» she tried to apologize. «But I had no other choice.» she explained. «Sha!» responded the Pokémon proudly.
Wakaba sent out a Marill, Heidi a Strawberry Sweet Alcremie, and Tara a Litten.
«Great! Then we can start.» announced Peter. «As always, before you can answer, your Pokémon must complete the obstacle course.» he explained.
«But now let's begin with the questions! Without considering mega evolutions and alternative forms, how many final evolutionary forms of all starter Pokémon are dual-type?» As soon as the question was finished, the girls' Pokémon took off, trying to complete the course. All except Anita's Oshawott, who stayed at the starting blocks. «Come on, Oshawott! I believe in you!» she tried to encourage it. It was no longer possible to win, but it didn't want to disappoint its Trainer. Tara's Litten won the first round.
«Alright! Litten has won the race! Tara, do you know the answer?» The girl didn't hesitate for a moment. «Seventeen!» she replied.
«And the answer is correct!» Peter waited for the Pokémon to return to the starting blocks before asking the second question. «Let's continue with the second question. How many Fossil Pokémon have been discovered to date?» The various Pokémon took off again. This time, Oshawott started with the other Pokémon but didn't arrive first. After completing the course, the Pokémon looked at its Trainer with a disappointed expression. Surely, it didn't expect the girl to smile at it.
This time, Marill won. «Alright, this time Wakaba will answer. The question is: How many and what are the Legendary Golems?» The girl put her hand over her mouth for a few moments before responding. «There are five. Registeel, Regice, Regirock, Regidrago, Regieleki.» she answered.
From the stands, Carlos's reaction was increasingly worried. His friend hadn't answered any of the questions yet.
«Do you think she can make it?» Carlos asked.
«I think so. After all, it's only been two questions! Calm down!» Ash responded, trying to reassure him. Almost prophetically, in the third round, Oshawott managed to arrive first.
«For the third question, Anita will answer first. The question is: Which Pokémon can have the Poison Heal Ability? I remind you that the Poison Heal ability allows a Pokémon to recover HP instead of being hurt when poisoned. But, I must emphasize! If your Pokémon is poisoned, take it to a Pokémon Center!» he tried to joke.
«They are Shroomish, Breloom, and Gliscor.» the girl replied. «And the answer is correct!» he announced.
After waiting for the Pokémon to return to their positions, the challenge resumed.
Even in this case, Anita's Oshawott didn't win. The first Pokémon to finish was Tara's Litten. «Very well, Tara! Here's your question. How many evolutionary stones are known to date?» The girl responded immediately. «There are ten.» Peter smiled. «The answer is correct! And now Tara has two correct answers! One more correct answer and you can move on to the next stage. But now let's continue!» It was already time for the next question: «How many and what are the forms of Lycanroc?» To this question, Anita answered correctly, indicating that there are three forms. The Midday Form, the Midnight Form, and the Dusk Form. As soon as the Pokémon returned to their positions, Peter asked yet another question, not before pointing out to the audience how now the contenders for victory were two. Finally, the man asked the question.
«What is the only Pokémon evolutionary line with Poison and Flying types?» The girls' Pokémon, especially Litten and Oshawott, competed. In the end, it was the latter who triumphed. «They are Zubat, Golbat, and Crobat.» answered Anita. «And the answer is correct!» Peter announced. «This means Anita advances to the Free Performance round!» Abby and Mildred advanced in the subsequent rounds.
As per tradition, there was a break between the two phases, allowing the staff to set up the stage and the remaining performers to finalize their preparations. To avoid favoritism, the four performers would perform in a random order. Serena would perform second, while Anita would go fourth. Abby was the first to perform.
The performer wore an elegant, long, black dress with black gloves and a black hat. «Let's welcome performer Abby once again!» Peter introduced her. The audience greeted her with a warm applause. Everyone was clapping except for Oscar. Ash and Carlos deduced that the performer in black and her Pokémon had eliminated his sister. Once she received the signal, the girl sent out her Pokémon, a Gothitelle and a Houndoom.
She commanded the Dark Pokémon to use Flamethrower and Gothitelle to use Psybeam. The two attacks combined into a purple column, surrounded by flames. A few moments later, she ordered the Dark Pokémon to use Dark Pulse and the Celestial Pokémon to use Shadow Ball, instructing both to strike the previously created column. To conclude the performance, she commanded the Dark Pokémon to hit the creation with a powerful Fire Blast, which shattered the column into numerous colorful sparks. The young woman made a deep bow to the audience, indicating the end of her performance.
«And that's the fantastic performance by Abby!» Peter announced. «Remember, you must wait for all performers to finish before voting.» he reminded the audience. Next was Serena, undoubtedly the most experienced performer. She wore a white shirt with long sleeves decorated with ruffles around the wrists, covered by a light brown overdress. The lower part of the skirt, which reached just above her knees, was decorated with darker brown lace and featured a red music staff pattern wrapping around it. The dress also had two bows, one red on the chest and one brown around the waist. The Kalos native also had to wait for the signal before starting her performance.
Once she got the go-ahead, Serena began her performance. She sent out Pancham and Sylveon. Both Pokémon wore accessories; Sylveon had several bows enhancing her appearance, while Pancham sported his signature spiky red sunglasses. Pancham started by punching the ground, generating massive pointed rocks, which he began jumping on with acrobatic flips. Meanwhile, Sylveon was airborne, propelled by her Fairy Wind. Shortly after, she created golden star-shaped beams, which she launched while suspended in the air. Simultaneously, Pancham generated purplish energy rings from his upper limbs, hitting the stars and causing them to explode into colorful sparks. Moments later, the Mischief Pokémon struck the rocks he had created, shattering them into blue powder. Sylveon once again created star-shaped energy beams, which Pancham repeatedly hit, making them explode into colorful sparks. As per tradition, the Kalos native concluded her performance with a deep bow.
Following Mildred's performance, which wasn't particularly noteworthy despite her attempts to smile at the audience, Anita's turn came. She wore a strapless dark blue dress for the occasion. The short skirt had several pleats and was decorated with matching lace at the bottom. The dress also featured a large, lighter-colored bow at the waist and gloves matching the dress. She wore dark blue heels. Despite Serena's encouragements, Anita was still nervous about performing. She feared being judged or making a fool of herself in front of so many people. She, too, had to wait for the signal before performing.
«Let's try it, Vivillon! Create Energy Balls!» Anita commanded. The Pokémon generated green energy spheres resembling eyes from the upper part of her body, which floated in the air. «Now hit them with Air Slash!» Thin blades of air emanated from the Pokémon's wings, striking the energy spheres and making them explode into tiny greenish sparks. «Great! Now use Sleep Powder!» The Pokémon's wings emitted star-shaped beams, stunning both the girl and the audience. Anita seemed rather puzzled. «Didn't I tell her to use Sleep Powder?» she thought. Despite the unexpected turn, she decided to continue her performance.
«Now use Energy Ball!» The Pokémon generated green energy spheres resembling eyes from the upper part of her body, which combined with the star-shaped beams. «Now destroy them with Air Slash!» Thin blades of air emanated from the Pokémon's wings, striking the energy spheres and causing them to explode into multi-colored sparks. «Let's have fun now! Use Psychic to create whatever you want!» The Pokémon gathered the fragments around her wings, creating the illusion of having giant wings. Like Serena, the young trainer ended her performance with a deep bow.
«Now that all the performers have performed...» Pierre seemingly appeared out of nowhere. «The audience and private voters can now cast their votes!» The performers gathered in front of the audience. Behind the performers, images identical to the keys on their outfits were projected. Each key filled up more and more as votes for each performer increased until Peter declared the end of voting. «And the winner is... Performer Serena!» Peter declared. The theater audience applauded loudly. The Kalos native had won her first Showcase. The man handed the Kalos native the Princess Key, a golden key decorated with precious stones on the handle. It was quite heavy. «And as promised... you'll be interviewed by the prestigious Trainers magazine.» he explained. For the record, Anita finished in second place, Abby in third, and Mildred in fourth and last place, not hiding her disappointment.
A few hours later, Pierre escorted the group to the same hotel where he was staying. It wasn't far from the theater where the Showcase had taken place. «The magazine staff chose to interview you here. They booked a room specifically.» he explained. The man entered the hotel and invited the four to enter. «The room they booked is right next to mine.» he explained. After passing the reception desk, the five reached the elevator to go up to the fifth floor. «The room they booked is 505. It's that one.» he indicated. The group parted ways with the host, heading to the room where the journalists were staying.
Serena, who was slightly ahead of the others, was about to knock on the door. After a few moments, a boy opened the door. He was a boy about Ash's height, with very short hair and large glasses. He was wearing a sports jacket and a pair of jeans. «Come in!» he invited them. «My name is Lewis. You'll soon meet my colleague, Angela. She's getting ready now.»
After the usual round of introductions, the group was able to enter the room. The room was quite large and well-finished. There were paintings hanging on the walls and mirrors. There were also some private wooden furniture and equally refined ornaments.
After making themselves comfortable and ordering something from room service, they were finally able to proceed with the interview. The interview was not conducted by the boy but by a young woman, slightly shorter than him. She, too, was dressed quite informally like her colleague.
Angela took a camera from a nearby bag. It was made of black plastic and had a large, black lens. From another bag, she took out a tripod.
«Are you going to make a video too?» asked the native of Kalos, in a worried tone. «In that case, I better tidy myself up. I look a mess!» she added.
«No, you look perfect just as you are!» Ash tried to reassure her, making her blush.
«Are you two... by any chance... dating?» Angela asked. She received no response. However, she could sense the tension in the room.
«I was just asking... you know, out of curiosity...» she tried to justify herself. «Imagine what a scoop that would be! The World Champion and one of the most famous Performers and Coordinators and...»
No reaction.
It took several minutes for the situation to thaw and for a semblance of normality to return. Only then did Lewis turn on the camera, pointing it at the two, sitting on the couch next to each other.
«If you're ready, we can begin.» Angela invited her. Serena simply nodded. «Very well then. Let's start. And where better to start than the beginning? How did you start your career as a Performer?» she asked.
«Well... it's actually very simple. When I started my Pokémon journey, I had no idea which path to choose. Until I met a girl who is now one of my best friends, Shauna. She was the one who inspired me to become a Performer.» she recounted.
«Interesting. Now you're an expert, but I imagine it must have been strange at first... so, could you tell us what it was like debuting at the Showcase?»
«The first time was a complete disaster. I was totally inexperienced and didn't even manage to get past the themed performance stage. We had to dress up a Pokémon with various accessories we were given. But, overdoing it with the ribbons, during the parade, Fennekin tripped over her own ribbons and...»
Angela nodded. The rest of the story was clear.
«Let's move on. After all the events of the Kalos war against Team Flare, you moved on to Pokémon Contests, starting in Hoenn... and soon became a famous coordinator... but why did you decide to return to Showcases?»
«Yes, we had good results with the contests and participated in several Grand Festivals, but... it was clear that wasn't our true goal.»
«And so you returned to Showcases, right here in Unova. But... with all the experience from years of contests... don't you think this is an unfair advantage over your competitors?»
«I don't think it's unfair. We can't hide our experience. Besides, my competitors have also shown they know what they're doing.»
«I understand. Another question. Compared to many other Performers and Coordinators, in Unova and beyond, who have six or more Pokémon, why do you have only three?»
«I don't catch Pokémon just for the sake of numbers. All the Pokémon I've caught, I've caught because they chose to come with me.»
«Another question. Have you ever felt like a 'predestined' one... forgive the term...»
Serena tried to stifle a laugh. «As nice as it would be to hear 'The Predestined One wins the Eolea Showcase!' or something like that... no. I don't feel like a predestined one. Without Shauna, I probably would have chosen a different career... who knows, maybe by now I'd be a Trainer challenging Gyms or something else.»
«So, you would have had to face Ash and... after all, he's the strongest Trainer in the world...»
«If I had chosen that path, I would have been honored to battle against him.»
«Why do you talk like that, if it's evident you know each other?» Angela asked, puzzled.
«Maybe if I had taken that path, we would have become rivals and who knows how things would have turned out...»
«Well... who can say... maybe somewhere, in another universe...»
Serena just smiled at the interviewer's remark. It seemed she knew things she didn't want to reveal.
«Back to us... what is your goal here? To win the title of Unova Queen?»
«That comes later. I think my first goal is to bring smiles to people, to give them moments of happiness. When I started as a Performer, I was only aiming to win the title. I didn't think about the most important thing of all. The audience.»
«Speaking of Showcases here in Unova... have you already identified potential rivals?»
«Too soon. The level, as I said before, seems very high, but I don't feel ready to say 'she will be my biggest rival' or 'I don't need to worry about her'. Then, as I said before, the most important thing is the audience.»
«Very interesting. You talk about the audience as your main focus... well, I guess you know that here in Unova, the audience at home is also very important. Don't you think that in this area your fame might favor you?»
«I hope not. I don't want people to say 'I voted for Serena because she's famous' but to say 'I voted for Serena because she and her Pokémon did a great job'. Unfortunately, we can never know.»
«Last question. If you could take something from Pokémon Contests and transfer it to Showcases, what would you choose?»
The native of Kalos had to think for a few moments. «Two things. The first is an independent jury. In some Showcases in Kalos, it was present, in others it wasn't. Here in Eolea, it wasn't, but maybe it will be in other Showcases. If I could choose, I'd put it everywhere. To avoid cheating. And, as a second thing, even though I know I'm going against the grain, I'd like there to be a battle round in the themed round. Not that I'm very good at battles, but if it's true that in the first phase of the Showcases the talent of the Performers is evaluated, then battling is also a talent.»
«And with that, we thank you for being here with us.» Angela thanked her.