As much as he liked Camphrier Town, it really didn't offer much. After a short tour of the Shabboneau Castle and stocking up on berries, Ash was ready to head to Parfum Palace.
Route 5 had been good for him.
Polaris was finding his footing, his tenacity slowly winning over some of the more amicable teammates. Nettle, for all the older teammates found them irritating, was perfect to welcome new additions and make them feel as if they had someone on their side.
The frog was a serious little thing, showing none of the youthfulness that Mirae, Nettle, Hemlock, or even Sagitta showed. Ash attributed it to being so focused on finding and testing each trainer that he put his dreams above all else.
Ash could absolutely respect that. It gave them common ground beyond their immediate connection.
While Route 5 was one of the shorter routes in Kalos, only a three day trek to Camphrier Town, Ash extended it a bit.
He took his time to recover and reconnect with his team.
Professor Oak had been right; Ash already had something to fight for, as cliché as it was. His Pokémon had dreams and goals of their own, and it was Ash's job to ensure they get there.
Luckily for him, and what made them all such a formidable team, was that their overarching goals aligned.
Strength.
Respect.
Freedom.
At the beginning of his journey and with each new addition to the team, there had been obvious distinctions based on species. The Dragons were prideful, the Darks were cunning, and the Fae were mischievous.
But over time…
Over time they've blended.
Pride has bled into each of his teammates, a drive to be the best, a drive to stand at the pinnacle of strength and stay there.
Cunning has sunk into thoughts, into ideas. New ways of looking at old problems, new plans other than brute strength. Intelligence in the way his Pokémon were learning to use all possible advantages at their disposal.
Mischief that layered their actions, that tempered pride enough to humble themselves if it meant tricking their opponent. Exploiting egos, insecurities, and biases of both trainer and Pokémon.
There were exceptions, of course. Styx was the most resistant to 'debasing' herself to make her opponent overconfident. It also didn't work well, because how many Pokémon were they fighting that had even a spark of belief they could take down a Hydreigon?
Libra's friendship with Bane softened the other Dragon's disgust at trying something new. But the Hakamo-o was also a Fighting type, and their sense of honor overpowered many characteristics of Darks and Fae. Instead, she preyed upon frustration, her opponents unable to break through her steadily improving defenses.
Castor already possessed the pride of Dragons. It was the cunning of Darks that escaped him, ironically enough. But his primary Ground typing influenced him quite a bit.
The Mineral types, Ground, Rock, and Steel, had a very… straightforward way of thinking. Stubborn, simple, and reactive. It was quite the challenge teaching the Krokorok to use his head. Duvessa, Grimsley's Krookodile, had gotten him started, but she had been more focused on expanding his powerset.
Having Hemlock as a rival-slash-friend was helping.
Nettle was… Nettle.
The little Poipole was the same carefree, fun-seeking, and affectionate Pokémon it had always been, but there had been changes. There was a new level of calm in battle and training that granted the UB more patience from its team. Cunning was far out of its reach, mischief more so, but pride was slowly hardening Nettle's scaly exoskeleton.
Sagitta had always been a mischievous little shit, craving freedom as much as she craved evolution. Now that she had achieved the latter, she had luckily associated speed and strength with freedom. The Togekiss had formed a small rivalry with Bane, both constantly trading the title of 'Fastest Teammate'.
Mirae, however, had been the greatest study in how influential being on a team could be.
He had been a blank slate in every sense. An infant, a Normal type, and one of the most adaptable Pokémon in the world. Absorbing every experience, interaction, relationship, and word like a sponge. Of course his physical characteristics were adapting as he spent more time around Styx and Sagitta, but it was his personality that shifted in obvious ways.
The Eevee was prideful, he was mischievous, and he was cunning.
He was affectionate, he was excitable, and he was more than just his adopted parents.
Ash was learning that his Pokémon were more than their typings. It was so easy to get caught in the pitfall of expectations. Ash had, many times.
And Houndour was the paradigm of that lesson.
She was loving and trusting and sweet and Ash wanted her home.
Soon.
It has been a very productive and healing past couple days. He was feeling steadier, though the fear of falling apart again was always in the back of his mind. He had taken steps to make sure he felt safe before he slept, meditating and trying to calm his thoughts to decrease the chances of nightmares.
He talked to Houndour every other night, and every time he felt more and more ready.
Now, after passing through Camphrier, Route 7 brought with it sunshine and a crisp breeze, the weather a bit more mellow than it had been. Flabébé drifted above the vibrant flowers, still thriving and sprawling in the late autumn chill. Roselia wandered through the large beds of wildflowers, roses of various shades and colors. Ash saw one particular Roselia, one with two white roses, spinning around with a white flower Flabébé in a lighthearted dance.
He could see the Battle Chateau in the distance and could admit he was curious about the quality of battles it offered. But he put that thought on hold and headed north, remiss to leave the lovely sight behind.
It only took a day for the telltale looming trees to line the road. Route 6 was more like a really long driveway to the Parfum palace than an actual route. It would only take a little over an hour.
So if he accepted more battles than normal, it wouldn't interfere with his timeline too much.
The trainers here were, well… they definitely weren't strong. Most were tourists. Apparently a Pokémon Showcase was scheduled in the infamous palace gardens for this evening.
Polaris, Nettle, and Mirae got their reps in. After their week on the road to Camphrier, Ash had a better idea of Polaris's battle style. He was slippery and quick and could hit decently hard. So for now, as he built up his strength, they'd be fighting using hit-and-run tactics. He was getting the little Water type's toxin-producing organ up to snuff.
At first, the Froakie only had enough toxin to cause a tickle in his opponent's throat. But after working with Nettle, the frog could induce nausea and muscle cramping through contact with his frubbles.
Mirae was so, so close to evolution.
The nubs on his back were getting bigger and the developing muscles were sore all the time. Ash wouldn't admit it, but he was a little sad to see the Eevee's red eyes turning green.
Raising Mirae from a newborn Eevee to the determined, adept fighter he was now filled Ash with enough emotion to make him feel both full and empty. Every success, every new benchmark Mirae achieved made Ash question how anyone could choose to walk away from witnessing it all.
Introspection was exhausting, so Ash instead focused on Mirae's impending growth.
Bill was impatiently on standby.
Nettle was getting more proficient with Dragon Pulse, but it was nowhere near mastered yet. The little UB was capable of condensing the draconic energy but it would quickly lose control of the lawless power.
Oak had finally, finally gotten back to him about the beast's possible evolution.
Nettle had dormant Dragon genes.
It would most likely gain a Dragon typing upon evolution, if they could figure out how to trigger it. Ash had never dreamt that his chaotic luck would give him this. Was this the universe's way of apologizing for the giant 'Fuck you' he received in Unova?
"Double Team, Aqua Jet."
The Growlithe they faced induced nothing more than a slightly elevated heart rate in Ash. He couldn't help the freeing grin on his face, the familiar fire in his veins that ignited passion, not pain.
Here he was keeping a clear mind, watching as Polaris decimated the poor Fire type. Growlithe was sent tumbling away after being struck, having difficulty detecting the real Froakie due to the water masking his scent.
"Flame Burst!"
"Water Pulse." Polaris immediately slammed the sphere of water into the ground, counteracting the explosion of flame threatening to roast him. The flying embers were easily doused and the canine was swept away in the surge of water.
Polaris dissipated the clones and hopped over to his trainer, eyes gleaming with his victory. The frog leapt onto Ash's shoulder, barely out of breath. His coloring had been darkening for a few days now, and stamina conditioning had been their priority the last week. What took humans months to achieve and adapt, Pokémon took a third of the time. Their bodies were calibrated for adaptation.
Froakie had probably been stagnating at the lab, but with all the added stimulus of traveling and training, he was getting ready to evolve.
He and Mirae had formed a little competition.
"Nicely done."
Ash shook his opponent's hand before continuing on his way, Mirae and Nettle scampering along, pouting up at the Froakie's place on his shoulder. They were only fifteen minutes away, he could see the break in the trees and the ostentatious garden beyond.
Stepping out into the light, Ash had to blink a few times for the stars in his vision to abate, because Parfum Palace was… very shiny.
Not to mention colossal. Ash didn't even know buildings could be this big. It might only be four stories, but the grounds took up at least 2,000 acres.
A white stone wall encircled the palace, the gardens beyond were immaculate and sported clean lines and precisely trimmed hedges. Wrought iron lanterns that flickered with flames even in the afternoon lined the paths that twisted through the courtyard.
Ledyba and Combee buzzed around flowers, Hoppip and Spritzee floating gently in the shockingly warm breeze. Ash looked around to find the source of heat in the November air and spotted the culprits.
Talonflame soared above the gardens, sparking embers falling from their wings as delicate Heat Waves washed over the guests. Two male Pyroar stalked the grounds, manes glowing brightly with their heat output.
One of the Pyroar deftly avoided a tourist's attempt to pet him.
The palace was even more ornate than the gardens. It shone like the walls had been dipped in gold, with numerous windows and complex balconies. Gilded statues lined the walkway to the palace while intricate ornamentations were carved above every window and on every column.
Ash had to stare blankly for a few moments to get over the grandeur.
With how many people milling around, he understood why he had to book his tour beforehand.
So, shoving his hands in his pockets, he meandered down the widest footpath that led to the entrance. He had to raise an eyebrow at the expertly shaped shrubbery. Furfrou, Aegislash, Floette, and was that a Xerneas shape? He had to wonder how well the gardeners were paid.
The towering, heavy white marble doors were interspersed with unnatural cracks, filled in with gold. Standing tall and at attention on either side were guards, one with a female Pyroar and the other with a Kadabra. Ash had to return his Pokémon and let the guards search his bag. Holding out his arms, he walked through the metal detector and handed over his ticket for inspection.
During the Lysandre incident, Parfum Palace had been pilfered and a few of the man's cultists got a little trigger-happy.
Those had been dark days.
So he didn't complain about the security measures and soon was waved through. He handed over his ticket for the 4:00PM group and stood off to the side to wait. The interior was worse than the outside and gardens combined. Crystal chandeliers, oil paintings, marble busts, gilded everything. Dear Mew.
He had to admit, though, there was something exhilarating about being smacked in the face with such resplendence. It was like an alternate reality.
"4:00 Group, to me, please!" Looking up, he saw a woman in an old fashioned Baroness dress holding up a hand. A group of twelve soon surrounded her. "Welcome to Parfum Palace! I'm your guide, Evangeline. Over the next two hours, you'll get to see the Royal Apartments, the Grand Gallery, the Royal Chapel, the Royal Opera, the Museum of History, and the gardens. As a special treat, all tour participants will get a ticket to this evening's Showcase!"
She beamed at the group before gesturing around her. "Parfum Palace started out as a simple hunting lodge before it became what you see today. Queen Bernadette IV finished the construction as a gift to her beloved, King Azrael…
Ash sat down with a whoosh of breath on the edge of an embellished fountain, groaning at his sore feet.
The tour had been better than he expected, filled with fascinating bits of history on both the palace and those that lived there. Queen Bernadette had been the only child of King Marius and Queen Izumi. Arranged marriages between regions were common, and so Bernadette was married to Prince Azrael of Galar.
The two hated each other initially. But their story was stirring, even Ash could admit that. Bernadette saved Azrael from an assassination attempt, and from there their story became the hallmark of a soulmate romance.
The romance that sparked the 'enemies to lovers' trope.
As soon as the tour was done, they had been left in the secondary gardens where the Showcase would commence. A huge pavilion had been set up alongside food trucks and pop-ups for local wineries. For some reason, you could leave on a life-endangering journey at 15, but you couldn't have a glass of wine until 18.
Tauros shit.
So here he was, sipping on Johto berry juice and feeding Polaris, Nettle, and Mirae little pieces of galette as they waited to enter the pavilion. They were seated on the edge of one of the many fountains, flashes of gold in the water distracting him from his task.
"Excuse me." Ash minutely jerked, lifting an eyebrow and looking up.
Oh no.
Social interaction.
Ash paused, something niggling in the back of his mind as he stared at the teenager in front of him.
She had wavy honey hair that just barely brushed her shoulders and curled around her cheekbones. Her eyes were cerulean and she was in a blue bell-sleeve dress. A nervous but bright smile was on her face as she looked at Polaris.
"I'm sorry to intrude, but were you one of Sycamore's interns?" Her eyes slid from Froakie to Ash, before her smile froze.
It was like all the blood drained from her face.
"Ash?" His eyes almost popped out of his skull when realization slammed into him.
"Serena?"
She brought her hands to her mouth even as her eyes lit up. "I can't believe this! What are you doing in Kalos? Why aren't you in Kanto? How have you been?" He was a bit taken aback at the force of her smile when she lowered her hands to clasp over her sternum. She grabbed the skirt of her dress so she could sit down beside him.
It took him a second or two to gain back his bearings.
Serena had lived in Pallet Town for a year while her mother worked with a Rhyhorn breeder in Viridian. Even with how young they were, Ash had already been an outcast.
Professor Oak's summer camp was a valuable experience for any child that wanted to be a trainer or work with Pokémon. The sleep-away camp was perfect for when Delia wanted to disappear for a few weeks.
It had been the first day, Ash's second summer attending camp, and once again he was standing far off to the side, away from the mingling and excited children. He remembered how he scanned each of the ten children, watching how they interacted with each other, how their expressions changed depending on who was speaking.
Everyone kept their distance from the freak with the 'blood stare'.
Except for one.
The last of the dozen children stood petrified on the perimeter of the group, eyes wide and face twisted in uncertainty.
Then she saw him and approached. All she had to say was that the other kids were too loud, and she'd seen Ash nod. The rest of camp found the two standing side by side, quiet and observant.
She was his first friend. And when she left for Kalos… well. It hurt.
"I've been traveling through a couple different regions to catch certain Pokémon." Ash was conflicted. He knew people changed, they grew up. But he still harbored a stab of hurt at her for leaving him alone. Logically, he knew she had no choice. But to a seven year old with more loneliness than a Cubone, it left marks.
Serena put her hands in her lap and leaned forward. "How long has it been? Nine years? But I'd recognize those intense eyes anywhere!" She laughed lightly to show she was teasing.
Ash tried to integrate the shy, soft-spoken girl from his memories with the more confident one in front of him.
She's grown, but he could see the hesitance in her face.
"It took me a few moments to recognize you." Serena gave a sad smile and looked down at her hands.
"Kalos… it was hard to get used to. I didn't know what I wanted to do. I was the new girl again. I made some friends, though and one of them, Shauna, got me into Showcases. There was something so empowering about them. I managed to get an internship with Professor Sycamore because I knew I wanted a Fennekin just like one of my idols."
Something clicked in his head. "Oh, did you intern with Calem?" Serena looked surprised as she nodded. "I battled him a few weeks ago and he talked about you a bit. He was impressed by you."
Serena bit her lip before smiling. "That's nice of him to say. We clashed for a while. He was annoyed that I didn't have a concrete goal. He thought I was just chasing flights of fancy."
Ash shrugged. "Everyone has a different timeline. But you seem to have figured it out."
She laughed quietly. "Man of few words. I'm glad to see that hasn't changed. But this is the big one, the finale. If I can beat Aria today, I'll be Kalos Queen."
"I can see why you're nervous. If you do win, what's next?"
Serena looked up in thought. "Well, I'll get to tour and do shows while also competing to keep my title. I can do modeling shoots and charity work. I've been using the little popularity I have to raise money for both domestic abuse shelters and Pokémon abuse centers."
"Oh…" There wasn't much more he could add to that statement. The performer ducked her head and played with the sleeve of her dress.
"You remember what my dad was like."
Ash frowned. "Yeah."
While it had been their misfit status that initially brought them together, their home lives made them friends. Best friends. For a while, the weight of the world hadn't seemed so bad when there was someone to share it with.
Misery loves company, and a burden shared is a burden halved.
Ash had only met Serena's father once and it left an impression. So much so, that Ash was happy to be in his presence the second time. The second time being at his funeral, the closed casket hiding the gouged out crater of a Rhyhorn wound.
Maybe that's why opening up and connecting with Grimsley had felt like a relief. He had forgotten what it was like.
A sudden chime broke the moment and Serena jerked to attention. "Oh! I have to go." She stood up and took a step, then hesitated. "Um… can we catch up after the show?"
Ash nodded. "Of course."
Her tense posture relaxed and she smiled. "Great, I'll meet you back here after." Ash nodded seriously before Serena waved and headed for the pavilion.
Mirae trilled curiously, sounding more like a low purr with his developing vocal cords. Polaris stared after Serena, recognizing her and looking between her retreating form and Ash. Nettle was just sleeping on his head.
"I knew her a long time ago."
Standing up, he herded the three into the pavilion, handing over the shiny ticket he'd gotten at the end of the tour. Wow, pretty good seats. He was a few rows back, but could see the stage clearly. It was a bit of a tight fit, Polaris on his shoulder, Mirae on his lap, and Ash moving Nettle so the person behind him could see.
Sighing, Ash parted his knees so Nettle could sit between and gathered Mirae into his arms. The Eevee's new scales were scratching uncomfortably against his scarred forearms, even through his jacket, but it was manageable.
The glow caster was in his pocket for later use.
He opened the program and read through the names and what the Theme Performance would be. A few years ago, there was a huge legal battle about the discriminatory policy of Showcases with how only women were allowed to compete. A successful performer transitioned and was barred from participating.
The issue gained international media attention, and there was a significant division until the performers themselves were asked.
Most didn't give a shit who competed.
The change had actually helped Showcases branch into other regions. They were almost as popular as contests now since there were many Trainers that didn't like to battle.
Ash read through the list of performers, noting Serena was the second listed.
With this being the Master class, and with how much influence performers had, the Theme Performance rounds have become more pointed. Social, political, and environmental issues were becoming the focus.
People wanted these celebrities to use their platforms and voices to spark change. Thus today, for the finale, the first round was mini-jeopardy. The topics were Social Reform, Environmental Science, Pokémon Rights, and Healthcare.
This would be interesting.
Ash shoved the program away as the lights dimmed. The announcer, Monsieur Pierre, glided out, his staff pounding against the floor with every step. His Klefki hovered beside him, a beautifully designed key hanging from its ring.
"Welcome to the Master Class Finale! I, Pierre, will be your host for the evening. Tonight's Showcase will decide our Kalos Royal! Let's meet our performers!" Pierre theatrically spun around and grandly waved his arm toward the side of the stage.
"Alouette!"
"Clarisse!"
"Derek!"
"Amelia!"
"Ian!"
"Leia!"
"Carlos!"
"Nando!"
"Ursula!"
"Our Kalos Duke, Astin!"
"Our Kalos Princess, Serena!"
"And our current Kalos Queen, Aria!"
Ash clapped along, eyes skimming over the performers. He was only familiar with Serena, Aria, and Amelia, since she had a Dragonair of all things. The others he didn't know.
"Only half of these wonderful Performers will be moving on to our Free Performance after this thrilling and intellectually charged Theme Performance!"
Getting as comfortable as one could with three Pokémon smothering him, Ash sat back to enjoy the show.
Ash would be the first to admit he cared more about Pokémon than people, so he was unsurprised he couldn't answer a majority of the jeopardy questions. Serena, Aria, and Astin dominated the round, and Ash was impressed by Serena's calm. She kept a fantastic poker face and put a bit of power behind her words that egotistically reminded Ash of himself.
Alouette, Amelia, Nando, Astin, Serena, and Aria moved on.
There was a short intermission between the Theme and Free Performance. He remembered seeing some performers try their hand at contests, and they were always much more involved in the appeal rounds compared to others, dancing alongside their Pokémon. Their battling prowess typically left something to be desired, however.
With it being the finale of the Showcase season, the six performers were split into three groups of two and had to outshine one another. The first two were Alouette and Nando. Alouette had a star trim Furfrou and a Starmie against Nando's Lopunny and Altaria.
Honestly, Alouette didn't stand a chance.
Nando's harp along with Altaria's singing and Lopunny's ballet made such an impact, Alouette's star-themed contemporary style was completely overshadowed. Ash kept his eyes on the Altaria, getting a feel for the species' strengths.
Ash leaned forward in his seat when it was Serena against Amelia. Serena had changed, now in a dusty purple kimono that was eerily similar to Valerie's style. She had a Sensu-style Oricorio and a Kirlia. Both Serena and her Kirlia were holding matching purple, pink, and blue fans.
Of course, Amelia used her Dragonair and a Dewgong to play upon the Dragon and Ice dynamic. Glistening ice crystals were lit up with Dragon Rage and Twister, Amelia's waltz creating a dichotomy of untamed energy and serene control.
But Serena knew what she was doing. Her traditional Johto-style Bon Odori dance was incredibly intricate. Her movements synced with Oricorio and Kirlia, bursts of Ominous Wind, Misty Terrain, and Tailwind creating an otherworldly spectacle.
Amelia was Not Happy when she lost.
Poor Astin was demolished by the Kalos Queen. His Butterfree and Pidgeot, as beautiful as they were, could not hold a candle to Aria's Vivillon and Aromatisse.
Ash rubbed Mirae's head around his small developing horns as the final three contestants got ready for their solo performances. Nando, Serena, and Aria would be fighting for the title. Their order had been randomized, since the performer who went last always had a slight advantage with being the most recent performance before voting occurred.
The order was decided; Aria, Serena, then Nando.
There was a fine line to walk when it came to how many Pokémon performed alongside the trainer. Too few would look empty, too many would be overcrowded. Aria went for a happy medium, stepping onto the stage with her famed Delphox, a Cinccino, and - oh wow - a Froslass.
There was a reason Aria was the Kalos Queen. Her dancing was reminiscent of a professional, her steps sure and her movements fluid. Her contemporary dance was lively, Ash could see people swaying unconsciously along with the music.
Intermittent Fire Spins and Dazzling Gleams made up the first half, but then it changed.
Froslass froze the stage. In everyone's surprise and awe, Aria laced up a pair of skates.
Figure skating, what in the Nether? So this was what Viktor was talking about back in Mt. Moon. Even though Aria wasn't a professional, she still managed a single toe loop, twizzles, and a few quick upright spins alongside her Froslass and Cinccino. Delphox was off to the side throwing light embers and Mystical Fires around the skaters.
He had to wonder if Viktor was watching this performance.
Ash frowned as the dance came to an end. That was nearly impossible to beat.
It was a few minutes later, once the stage was thawed and dried, that Serena stepped onto the stage.
Her red dress brushed the floor, the layers of ruffled moving like waves with every step. She was flanked by her own Delphox and her Oricorio, who now was in its Baile-style.
The guitar flared to life from the speakers, and the three moved.
Serena's heeled shoes tapped rhythmically against the stage, her hair pulled back except for two pieces that framed her face like her Oricorio's. A red rose was clipped where her hair was held back. The fire that danced with equal energy around the three was hypnotic, highlighting the sensuality of the unfamiliar dance. A blast of air sent Serena into the air, her practice showing through with how she controlled her ascent and descent like she was born to be in the air.
Delphox's Psychic kept her hovering while Oricorio flared its wings above her head, Delphox creating circles of flame below.
The audience clapped along with Serena, her earlier bright smile now replaced with a mischievous smirk as she captivated the crowd with her performance.
Ash was impressed with Oricorio and Delphox, the two showing incredible control in their elemental attacks. Serena must have trusted her Pokémon intently to risk being around so much fire.
Mirae bounced in his arms as Serena made her way offstage. Ash placed a hand atop the Eevee's head to calm him down. It was nice to see he was excited about it, though.
He pitied Nando.
The man did alright, but it barely differed from his earlier performance. He wasn't much of a dancer, sticking to playing his harp along with an orchestra made up of his Kricketune, Sunflora, and Roselia.
Then it was time to vote.
Ash pulled out his glow caster and hit the red button for Serena. He watched impatiently as the bars on screen above the performers' heads started filling up. Right away it was easy to see Nando wouldn't win. As the lights of the pavilion died down, Ash sighed.
Aria won. By two votes.
The crowd erupted into cheers, Serena slumping slightly, but pulling back her shoulders to stand tall and smiled. She turned to Aria and hugged the Queen, whispering in her ear. Aria pulled back and grinned widely, putting a hand on Serena's shoulder. Turning to the crowd, the Queen waved, her three teammates celebrating beside her.
Clapping along with the audience, Ash watched Serena's expression closely, looking for any sign of sadness. She was disappointed, of course who wouldn't be, but she seemed genuinely happy for Aria.
Monsieur Pierre handed the Royal Key to Aria with all the pomp and circumstance he could muster (which was a lot). Aria curtsied and clutched the key with a brilliant smile.
The crowd started clearing out, but Ash stayed seated so he wouldn't have to be pressed up against people more than he had to. Nettle was asleep against his thigh and he was pretty sure Polaris was halfway there as well. Mirae was the only one who had enjoyed the show.
Ash tapped the Beast and Lure balls against his two teammates, letting Mirae run ahead as he walked out of the pavilion. It was dark outside by this point, the flickering lamps casting a warm glow over the gardens of the palace. The late November chill was sinking into his bones, causing him to tug his Wooloo fur-lined bomber jacket tighter.
Mirae ran off ahead, knowing they were meeting back at the fountain. He glared at anyone showing too much interest in the Eevee, easily making them back off. It was obvious he was a Battle Trainer, and it was also obvious people weren't used to seeing one of 'his type' at a Showcase.
There has always been a bit of a rivalry between battlers and coordinators, and now performers have joined. Competitive battlers were viewed as less refined and more brutish compared to the others.
Mirae hopped into his lap as he sat down, but still leaned over to playfully bat at the rippling water. While he matured, the Eevee kept a playfulness to him that Ash adored.
It was a while before Serena finally made it to him.
"Ash! I'm so sorry, my manager, Palermo, needed to speak with me." Serena's tight smile was apologetic. Her Oricorio was perched on her shoulder, feathers puffed up in what looked like anger. She had changed out of the ruffled dress and was now in a gray thick sweater dress with tall black wool socks. Her heeled boots had the same thick gray material lining the top.
"It's okay, I figured you'd be held up."
Serena grinned in relief and sat down, holding out a gentle hand for Mirae to sniff. "And who is this?" The Normal type extended his neck to sniff, and Ash had to yank him back when Mirae flashed his elongated fangs.
"This is Mirae."
"Mirae, what a good name! How'd you get an Eevee?" Serena brought her hand back to her lap, unperturbed by the Eevee's aggression.
"I hatched him. Helping a researcher studying Eevee adaptations. Who is this?" Ash looked at the Baile-form Oricorio.
"That's so cool! And this is Hedwig, I traded my Fletchinder for her since he wanted to be a battling Pokémon and she wanted to perform." She looked down for a moment, then around at the dispersing crowd that stared a little too noticeably. "It's still relatively early, do you want to head to Camphrier Town to get dinner and catch up? I'm starving."
Ash let a slow smirk slide onto his face. Serena blinked. "Want to fly?" Understandable caution entered Serena's expression but she nodded. With a brief warning, Ash returned Mirae and stood, gesturing for Serena to follow. A few people stopped them along the way, congratulating Serena and heaping on praise, but soon they made it to an empty expanse.
Ash trailed a hand over his Pokéballs. Serena held some anticipation, her Oricorio clicking her beak as they stood to the side.
"You can fly on Sagitta." He pressed the release on the Luxury ball, smiling when Sagitta looped through the air before landing. Serena gasped, blue eyes wide in wonder as she crept closer.
"Oh, she's beautiful." Sagitta fluffed her wings, feathers rustling at the praise. Her beak clicked together in warning a few times when the performer approached her. Holding her hand out, Serena waited patiently until Sagitta's suspicious look smoothed out. Trying again, Sagitta allowed the new person to reach up to stroke her cheek. "How did you get a Togekiss?"
Ash slid his hands into his pockets and shifted his weight onto one leg. "I caught her in Alola. Then I won a Dusk Stone, but I didn't have a use for it. I offered to trade it with someone's Shiny Stone cause he had a Lampent, but he was an asshole and tried to challenge me for both. He let his ego get in the way of his Pokémon's needs. I beat him." He knew his smirk was smug, but that had been a glorious experience.
Serena's face twisted. "Ew, what a greedy jerk. His poor Lampent, though."
Ash sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Yeah. I had briefly considered giving the Dusk Stone to him anyway, but he stormed off before I could. Let me know if you ever catch a Murkrow, Misdreavus, Lampent, or Doublade."
Serena's cheeks tinged a bit. "Really?" Her voice wavered slightly.
Ash stared at her with narrowed eyes, that response a little more expressive than it should be. "I mean, yeah. I don't have a use for it. I could sell it, but would rather not."
Serena gave a small smile. "Thanks. Now, no offense to Sagitta here, but I don't think she can carry both of us." Sagitta squawked in offense, even though it was true.
Ash let his wild grin take over, Serena's eyes flaring wide at the unfamiliar sight. "Meet my starter." The Dusk ball opened, the red light growing and growing until it dissipated, revealing all eight plus feet of Styx's glory. The Hydreigon ignored the squeak from the girl, instead lowering her heads to rumble at Ash and allow the smaller heads to flick her tongues at him. She'd been a little more smothering since The Breakdown of Route 14.
Scratching her chins, he looked over his shoulder to grin at Serena. The performer was doing her best to stay calm, and he was impressed with her tenacity. Her fists were clenched, but she was still in the same spot as before.
"This is Styx." The Dragon hissed at the girl, and Ash could see her full body shiver at the wicked sound. "Yeah, she doesn't like other people much."
Serena released a startled laugh. "Uh, yeah, I can see that."
Taking pity on her, he stepped away from his starter and guided Serena around to Sagitta's side. "This is an old friend of mine. Can you carry her, just this once?" Sagitta chirped indignantly, but surrendered and lowered her body closer to the ground.
Ash had flown with Sagitta once, the Togekiss capable but significantly weighed down by him. Sagitta was a free spirit and didn't enjoy flying with her trainer like Styx did. But she did like Ash, to a certain extent, and was much more compromising ever since she evolved.
Ash helped direct Serena onto the Togekiss's back, making sure she was settled and knew where to hold. Most Togekiss would never dream of being able to carry a human on their backs, but Sagitta was not most Togekiss.
He heaved himself onto Styx's back. "Alright let's go."
He loved flying.
There was a moment when flying through the night, pinpricks of light speeding by beneath where it looked like the sky had flipped. When the only two in the world were Ash and his starter, together and free.
Even though the ride was quick, only twenty minutes, he was still shivering fiercely when they touched down. Serena jumped down on her own, hugging her arms in an attempt to stave off the cold.
Tossing his two flyers razz berries as thanks, he returned them and looked around. Spotting a restaurant called 'Buvette', he pointed it out to his childhood acquaintance. They quickly made their way inside, sighing at the blast of warm air that came over them.
They were led to a table against one of the walls, both sliding into their seats and picking up the menus.
"You never answered my question." Ash looked up, only to see Serena reading her menu. She looked up and raised an eyebrow, awaiting his response.
"Which one?"
She laughed lightly. "Where'd you get a Froakie?"
"But you never asked." Serena frowned. "You asked if I was an intern, before you realized it was me."
Serena rolled her eyes, amusement bleeding off of her. "Good to see you haven't changed that much. I was starting to worry."
Ash cocked his head but didn't ask. "He actually was from Sycamore. He's the same one from when you were an intern, I think. He kept leaving his trainers because they weren't what he needed. Polaris decided he wanted to come with me."
"I can't believe he's the same one. I'm glad he found a worthy trainer."
"You haven't even seen me battle."
Serena laughed. "Ash, you were battling with wild Pokémon when you were seven. I'm sure you've only improved since then. I remember that Poliwag you found that you helped to defeat the Horsea that took over its pond."
Their waiter had marvelous timing and came over to drop a basket of bread on the table and fill their water glasses so Ash didn't have to respond. He took their drink orders and glided away.
"Obviously you're a full-fledged trainer now. When we were little, we didn't really have concrete plans. So what's the end goal?"
Ash took a sip of water as he thought back.
Serena knew Ash had always dreamed of being a Trainer. She had told him all those years ago that she saw his true calling in battling, and witnessing his passion helped her realize that she didn't want to pursue a career as a Rhyhorn Racer after all.
Leaning back, he set his menu down. "You know how Kanto is big on affinities? Well, I found out I have Dark, Dragon, and Fairy. Yeah, I know." Serena tried to smooth the grimace off her face. Even though she only spent a year in Kanto it didn't mean she didn't see the destruction wrought by the Rocket War. "I'm traveling to be a Chaos Trainer. Hope to get the title of Master after I win a League. I want to change people's perceptions of Darks and Dragons along the way." The five regions were so horrible to Dark types.
Just thinking about what almost happened to Houndour at that Pokémon Center…
"You seem to be doing well so far." Serena commented. "Styx is a terror, but she clearly cares for you."
He smiled. "Yeah, I have a great team. It hasn't been easy, but it's been a source of pride, seeing my team grow."
Serena leaned forward and pointed at the dyed strands hanging over his forehead. "That why you got these?" Her grin was teasing.
Ash played with the strands. "Uh, not really. Some friends I made in Alola did it and I ended up liking it, so I make sure to refresh them every once in a while."
"You mean you made other friends?" She had a dramatically wounded look before dropping it.
"You must have so many stories after seeing these far off regions."
The conversation was interrupted by the waiter, who came back with their drinks and listened to their food choices.
"Have you traveled to other regions?" The dance she did with her Oricorio and Kirlia was very much not inspired by Kalosian culture.
Serena perked up. "Yes! I've been able to travel for a few performances. I've been to Johto the most, that's where I learned Bon Odori. But most recently…" Serena leaned forward with a grin. "I got to go to Paldea!"
Ash's eyes widened.
Paldea was an independent region not affiliated with the United League Association. It shared a border with Kalos, but very little was known about the Pokémon, culture, or their leadership. Though with the widespread emergence of Rotom Phones, there's been some initial connection in chat rooms and social media.
"What was it like?"
"It was unbelievably beautiful. The colors, the fashion, the architecture, it was all so different. The academy is said to be top notch. But I learned flamenco while I was there, one of the cultural dances of Paldea. I got the dress from their equivalent of a Gym Leader, Tulip Da Rosa. I wasn't permitted to catch any Pokémon there, but I saw the most interesting Pokémon called Glimmet."
Serena took a sip of her tea and tilted her head as she looked at Ash.
"So how'd you get that?" Serena tapped her cheek. Ash lifted a hand to brush against the scar from the sailor's ring.
"Oh, well, that's a story."
Ash was smiling by the time their food was delivered. Serena had some great stories about her Pancham before he evolved. It seemed as a Pangoro he wasn't as goofy, now just more grumpy.
It took them longer than necessary to finish their food. They kept trading stories back and forth. The keepsakes and souvenirs on Ash's necklace, Serena's horrible, no good trip to find a Feebas, their mutual hatred for Route 14. He told her about Nettle's cuddling addiction and she told him about how Degas, her Kirlia, wanted to evolve into a Gardevoir.
As their conversation started to wind down, Ash wiped his forehead from the heat of the room. Pulling the sleeves of his jacket, he slipped it off and reached for his fork.
"Oh my- Ash!" His fork clinked loudly against his plate as he dropped it. Serena was staring at his forearms, horror etched on her face.
Oh.
He grimaced and pulled his arms back and glared off to the side. Serena stared at him, but didn't push, like she knew he was getting to it.
"An, uh, altercation with some rogue Rockets." Her gasp made him finally lift his gaze. Her hands were covering her mouth, blue eyes wide. "Yeah, a Houndoom got me." Her expression collapsed into one of deep sadness and dismay. Even as kids they were not spared from learning about the horrors of the Rockets. Bias colored even their teachers' perceptions, painting Houndoom and their pre-evolutions as evil-incarnate.
"Does it hurt?"
"All the time. I'm still… I'm getting better, but it hasn't been great."
Ash was learning to be more honest with himself. And it felt good to fall back into this comradery with Serena. They had shared whispered secrets of trauma as children.
The two sat in solidarity for a few moments.
"Did I tell you about mom entering me into a mother-daughter Rhyhorn race?" The somber air immediately cleared when Serena wove her embarrassment and failure when it came to racing into a story, telling of her falls and being thrown with heavy detail.
Ash was grateful.
They were soon nudged out the door when the staff were trying to close for the night.
Braving the cold, they jogged over to the Pokémon center to get rooms. Making plans to get breakfast, the two separated. Ash headed out to feed his team, though it was late enough the younger members were cranky.
When he woke up, he felt… settled.
Showering, brushing, and throwing on clothes, he made sure he had everything before closing the door behind him. As per usual, he released Hemlock, and now Bane, to help with the bowls for breakfast.
They headed outside and around back, where he saw Serena already feeding her team. Hedwig was perched beside her Kirlia, Degas. Delphox was shoulder to shoulder with a hulking Pangoro. The most beautiful Milotic he's ever seen was wrapped around everyone, its stunning fanned tail sparkling in the morning rays.
"Ash!" Serena caught sight of him and smiled broadly, waving him over. She eyed Bane and Hemlock curiously but didn't try to delay their breakfast.
Setting out the various sized bowls, Ash released the rest of his teammates currently with him. Castor took his place next to Hemlock, the two elbowing each other like bickering siblings while Mirae was boxed between Styx and Sagitta. Libra yawned widely and hunkered down beside Bane. Nettle and Polaris were closest to Ash.
He brought his breakfast sandwich up and took a bite, turning around to see Serena staring at Libra. Her mouth gaping open, she lifted a finger to point at the large, red-eyed Dragon and turned to Ash.
"When you told the story, you left out how big she was." Ash smiled around his sandwich.
Swallowing, he walked over to greet Serena's Pokémon. "Everyone, this is Ash. He's a childhood friend of mine. Ash, this is Fawkes, my starter. That's Hei Bai, my grumpy Pangoro. Nessie is my Milotic. You've met Degas and Hedwig. I have one more, but she's nocturnal."
Ash waved at them all, getting various cries and grunts in return. Degas waved enthusiastically at him. Turning to his own team, he pointed. "While they're distracted is the best time to introduce them. You know Mirae, Nettle, Polaris, Sagitta, and Styx. That's Libra, Hemlock, Bane, and Castor. My Houndour is at Oak's."
His own team ignored anything that wasn't food, much to Serena's amusement. She opened her mouth to respond, but a ringing cut her off. Grimacing, she pulled out an expensive Holo-caster and walked away for some privacy as it flickered to life.
"Hello Palermo. Yes I know I ran off- uh huh, I'm sorry- it's the end of the season. I ran into a friend! ...What? What?! Oh no… Wait, why?" Serena was tense and silent before she pulled her device away and turned to Ash.
"Everything alright?"
She rubbed her arm and frowned. "My manager wants to speak to you."
Ash raised a single eyebrow but walked over and held out his hand for the Holo-caster.
A hologram of a distinguished older woman stared back at him with calculating lilac eyes. She had frown lines around her mouth and a stern countenance that made Ash feel like he was being analyzed.
"Hello, Mr. Ketchum. It seems the two of you have caused quite the commotion."
An article replaced Palermo's face.
Kalos Princess and Prince?
The picture beneath the headline showed Serena and Ash smiling at each other at the restaurant the night before.
Ash stayed quiet as the hologram flashed back to Palermo. "I'd like for you and Serena to enter a temporary contract relationship."
…What.
His first reaction was to scoff at the joke.
He went to question what she meant when he saw Serena flinch off to the side, looking extremely uncomfortable. She had a hand gripping her arm in a self-soothing gesture familiar from childhood. Ash at least knew the difference between embarrassment and distress and this was the second.
Serena knew this wasn't a joke.
"Why?"
Palermo brought a fist to her chin, seemingly leaning back in an office chair and calm as can be. "It's a smart PR move. Serena has never publicly dated and after her loss yesterday, we need to keep her relevant. Dating a rising star like you, especially a Battler steeped in controversy, will bring more interest than just Showcase enthusiasts."
Ash felt a low flame of fury rise in his chest. This woman was insulting Serena and treating both of them like pawns she could move around at will.
"And what does Serena think about this?"
Palermo waved a hand away, even as Serena retreated more into herself. "She knows I know best." A gleam entered the woman's eye. "You're a Dark and Dragon type trainer, right? Reputations are important. If you don't want to be eaten alive, you need to have support. If you are seen as a gentleman within the upper echelons of Kalosian high society, that'll do wonders for your future. Kalos Tonight is the leading entertainment media company in the ULA, the exposure is invaluable for someone in your position."
Ash hesitated.
"It's not like you're strangers. You were childhood best friends, and the relationship rekindled upon reconnection." Palermo smiled and tilted her head. "It's just for a short time, and then an amicable break up and things go back to exactly the way they were."
His eyes darted to Serena. It was several seconds until she met his eyes. What he saw there confirmed it for him.
"The answer is n-"
"We'll do it." Ash slammed his teeth together so hard it hurt. Serena stalked up to his side, emotions hidden behind a mask of intensity. "But only for a few weeks. And nothing will be released from our end explicitly stating we're dating. We'll travel together for that time and then part ways. Deal?"
"Deal." Palermo grinned sharply and cut the call.
The two were silent for a long time, the chatter of their Pokémon the only sound. It was so obvious neither of them wanted to do this.
"Serena." Ash didn't say anything else. He just waited.
The performer sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "We both need this. If I want to raise the money I want, I need people invested. If you want to change peoples' minds about Chaos types, you need the public's backing. I'll be the first to say I don't have romantic feelings for you."
"I don't think I'll be in a good place for a real relationship for a very long time. But Serena… this is your life, you're supposed to be the one in control." And how was that for irony?
"But it's not, Ash. When I decided to go for Kalos Queen, I knew my life would no longer be just my own. My image belongs to Kalos. If that's the price for my dreams, then so be it." Ash watched Serena go, her Pokémon quickly returned.
There was a pit in his gut he didn't know how to manage. Valerie's parting words to him echoed in his mind.
"Anything worthwhile requires sacrifice."
Their own personal performance started.
Leaving Camphrier required their joined hands and loud talks of the Tag Battle Tournament at the Battle Chateau. Their hands were clammy, their arms swinging awkwardly or too stiffly, and Ash was suddenly too aware of his expressions.
There was tension, thick and suffocating, until they left the admiring stares of the town for the solace of wilderness.
The first night around their camp, fire blazing and cold chill encroaching, they finally spoke as themselves.
"I'm sorry." Serena had her arms wrapped around her legs, eyes staring into the merrily dancing flames.
Ash leaned back against a fallen tree, looking up through the canopy to see winter constellations. "Serena, you have nothing to apologize for. Palermo is your manager, and she's also quite good at manipulation. Even I was almost convinced."
"But you were convinced."
The fire crackled.
Sighing, he brought his hands to his chin as he rested elbows on his legs. "You're right. Kanto is… Unova was bad, but Kanto is so much worse about Dark types. I don't want to excuse myself, but to explain. If I… If I don't have to go through as much trouble as I've already been through, then that's damn compelling. But if I've learned anything, it's that both our feelings have weight."
He met her eyes. "And you were very uncomfortable."
Serena finally lifted her head, sitting upright. There was a simmering anger there, but Ash thought it wasn't directed at him. "You know what my dad was like." She repeated her own words from last night. "Sometimes… as much as I hate being controlled… it's just easier."
Ash rubbed his face. "I know what you mean." It was easier to fall back on what was familiar. For Ash to keep people at an arm's length and not risk the hurt of them leaving.
He wasn't one to look on the bright side, but he could manage this once.
Pushing himself to his feet, Ash walked around the first and held out a hand. "How about we have fun with this tournament, yeah?" A playfully wicked smile, one that felt foreign but good, spread across his face.
Serena stared at his hand for a long moment, then some mischievousness made the fire's reflection all the brighter.
They shook on it.
Six days later, Ash wrinkled his nose as he tugged at his collar. Of course there was a dress code. His pink bow tie and matching cuff links were the only splash of color in this ensemble. His tuxedo was the most expensive thing he'd ever worn. All black except for his white button down, Ash felt like he was going to a funeral.
He felt like a child playing dress up.
And Serena looked like a princess, even he could see that. Her light pink dress flowed like water down to her ankles, where a pair of black heels could be seen. The strapless neckline was decorated with shimmering crystals while elbow length black gloves stopped just above her elbows. She had a black choker with a light pink gemstone dangling at the hollow of her throat.
He held out his hand, his own white gloves sliding smoothly against Serena's, and tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow. As he led her to the main room he leaned down to whisper out of the corner of his mouth. "Do you think any of these people have wrestled with their Pokémon before?"
Ash hid his grin when Serena tucked her face towards his shoulder to hide her laughter at the reference. The two had shared stories about play-fighting with their teammates and ending up covered in dirt and mud afterwards.
They were surrounded by high society and cameras. He and Serena had a part to play, and they had brainstormed over the past few days on what kind of front they should put up. Serena had more experience in the public eye, so he heeded her suggestions.
It was decided that Ash would be stoic and reserved, fierce in battle, and soft with Serena. The performer said there was a popular relationship 'trope' of 'sweet cinnamon roll' with the 'super serious'. Serena already had the reputation of Kalos's Sweetheart so Ash would do his best to play his part.
Ash was out of his depth, none of her explanations making any sense to him.
The Tag Battle would be televised across Kalos. If Serena was seen battling, which is something she rarely did publicly, it'd be a big story. He and Serena had trained together the week leading up to this and he had to say, she impressed him.
There were only three rounds of battles, and only one partner in the pair had to be registered with the Chateau. While there were a few Counts and one Earl competing, he was still looking forward to it.
The Chateau was where Kalos high society got together for events, always centered around battle performances. It was a place to find rare Pokémon, bought from elite breeders or imported from exotic places. The Pokémon themselves were typically strong, but very few trainers contained any notable talent.
Those that had skill could climb the ranks.
A large reason Champion Diantha was the Grand Duchess.
Ash and Serena stopped on the edges of the battlefield, whispering lowly to one another through the opening announcements. "She wasn't supposed to go to the Furfrou groomers for her own hair…" Ash did his best to give a small smile instead of the smirk that felt more natural. The woman was definitely trying too hard to mimic the popular 'matron trim'.
"Not as bad as that guy's top hat. What do you think, he hiding a flask or a Rattata piloting his actions?" Serena had to call upon her PR training to hide her snicker, the reference to a movie they watched as children landing true. Ash's own grin threatened to emerge, but he cleared his throat and glared back at the man sneering at him, who gulped and avoided his gaze.
Nudging Serena when the first two pairs took the field, he watched the various Gothitelle throw up a safety barrier that soon faded from the visible spectrum.
From there, Ash and Serena got serious. They threw strategies and counters back and forth as they watched the battle. All four were Barons and Baronesses. A Honedge and Clauncher lost to a Diggersby and Skarmory.
The next battle was between the single Earl and his son, using a Ninjask and a Shedinja, surprisingly. Their opponents, two Viscountesses using a Gogoat and Fraxure, were defeated summarily.
Then it was Ash and Serena's turn against a married couple.
"This is a double battle between the Viscountess and Viscount Danielle and Gourdon and Viscountess Serena and Trainer Ashton. Only one Pokémon per trainer will be permitted and the battle is over when both Pokémon on one side are unable to battle."
When the ref counted down, four Pokéballs were launched in the air.
Danielle and Gourdon sent out a Kecleon and Gloom against Polaris and Degas. He caught Serena's eye and nodded, their twin smirks causing their opponents to share a look of confusion.
"Toxic Spikes."
"Hidden Power." The Kirlia's mastery over the attack was apparent when the glowing orange spheres slammed into Kecleon with no delay. Gloom was able to jump out of the way in time to avoid the Fire attack. But by then, Polaris had scattered poisonous frubbles across the field.
Thank Mew for Degas's Telepathy ability.
"Shadow Sneak!"
"Magical Leaf!"
"Calm Mind." Polaris knew what to do. As Degas cleared his mind, the Froakie jumped in front of the attacks, creating a Substitute in time to take the damage. Before the fake Froakie was destroyed, water encased the frog. Kecleon had come out of the Shadow Sneak too close, and paid for it.
Color Change was an interesting ability, and if used correctly, could shape the course of a battle. But here, it wasn't advantageous, because at the moment Kecleon was a Fire type.
Sucks for it.
The reptile got the wind knocked out of it when it was struck, but unfortunately for Polaris, it had enough processing power to slam a Thunder Punch into the cocoon of water. Ash grimaced as he heard his newest teammate scream.
A blue outline surrounded the blast of water, and soon Froakie was telepathically deposited back on their side of the field. Degas was panting slightly, his rapid-fire Psybeams against Gloom wearing him out.
The four challengers paused for a moment… there! Kecleon flinched and lifted its foot, peeling the frubble from his scales.
"Facade!" Oh shit. The Kecleon launched its tongue across the field, making Polaris cry out, stumbling back from the powered up attack.
"Scald!" With a vengeance, the Water type retaliated, grabbing onto the extended tongue and releasing boiling water over the sensitive flesh. Ash spared a glance at Serena, seeing Degas twirl out of the way from an oncoming Energy Ball. Gloom looked mentally exhausted, the Kirlia's Psychic attacks wearing it down.
"Ready?"
Serena nodded, "Ready."
"Water Pulse!"
"Thunderbolt!" Just as Polaris slammed the sphere of water to the ground, Degas rained lightning down on the wave, supercharging it as it swept over Kecleon and Gloom. While the reptile didn't rise, Gloom shakily got to its feet.
Degas frowned and shot out a single Psybeam that took it down for the count.
Huffing a short laugh, Ash high fived Serena and the two congratulated their teammates. Polaris was tired, but could have fought for a bit longer. Degas was drooping, Kirlia not known for their stamina.
The final battle of round one between the Countess Eliane and her sister, using the rare Pupitar and Haunter. Baron Orvault and Viscount Herault used their Lairon and Pyroar against them. It was a very, very close match, the Baron and Viscount putting up a good fight against the Countess, but ultimately they fell.
Round two, Ash and Serena were up first against Baron Moray and Baroness Maelys. Ash gripped his Pokéball, fingers crossed, and threw.
Mirae and Nessie appeared on the field across from Maelys's Grumpig and Moray's Hawlucha.
The Eevee's fur stood on end as he growled at the Fighting and Flying type. Hawlucha looked bored as it stared at the little Evolution Pokémon. The audience didn't notice, too busy adoring Serena's magnificent Milotic.
"Begin!"
Everyone exploded into action.
Nessie stayed back, sending a high pressure Water Gun at their opponents, giving Mirae time to close the distance and land a particularly painful Iron Tail on Hawlucha. The little spitfire kicked off the Wrestling Pokémon only to latch himself onto Grumpig with a Bite.
Unfortunately, their aggressive start hit a roadblock when Hawlucha's Jump Kick sent Mirae flying. He landed harshly but was quick to pop back up and send a Swift back to rain down on the two.
Nessie was waiting with an Aqua Tail that struck Hawlucha in the abdomen, throwing it back towards its trainer. Grumpig was prompt to return the favor, landing a powerful Zen Headbutt on the Water type.
Mirae fired up a Quick Attack, ready to land another Iron Tail, but he was intercepted by a Low Sweep and Brick Break Combo. Ash gnashed his teeth together as Hawlucha prepared to land another Brick Break. "Hyper Voice!"
The Eevee screamed.
But even as Hawlucha and Grumpig stumbled around, and Nessie knocked them over with Scale Shots, Mirae kept screaming.
And then he began to glow.
Mirae is growing up
Who had Fake Dating on their Chaos Rising bingo card? I wanted to have some fun after the heaviness of the last few chapters, but also put a twist on it. We love some interesting opportunities for character growth
Ash hit his 'rock bottom' last chapter and is now getting a bit better, drawing strength from his team
Ironic tidbit: I always get a pack of Pokémon Cards from my dad for the holidays. This time, inside had a Zweilous and a holographic Hydreigon card
Ash's Team:
Styx - Hydreigon
Hemlock - Morgrem
Bane - Zoroark
Mirae - Eevee
Sagitta - Togekiss
Libra - Hakamo-o
Nettle - Poipole
Castor - Krokorok
Polaris - Froakie
At Oak's
Unnamed - Houndour