Ashley had set in the clearing for the day. Ashley sat cross-legged on her sleeping bag, a TM case open in her lap. She held the Giga Drain TM disc carefully between her fingers, its surface gleaming faintly in the firelight.

"Alright, Neptune," she said, looking up at her Lapras, who was lounging comfortably in the grass nearby. His sleek shell glimmered faintly under the sun, his large, gentle eyes focused on her with curiosity. "Time to teach you something new—Giga Drain. It's going to give you an edge when things get tough."

Neptune let out a melodic trill, bobbing his head in understanding, allowing Ashley to press the TM against his forehead. There was a light glow, before Neptune shook his head in disorientation. Before Ashley could get started, Proserpina waddled into view, her stubby legs kicking up faint puffs of dust as she approached the Lapras with purpose. The Gloom's petals swayed slightly, and her expression carried an intensity that made Ashley blink in surprise.

"Uh, Proserpina?" Ashley raised an eyebrow. "You okay there?"

Proserpina didn't respond directly. Instead, she pointed one of her leaves at the TM in Ashley's hand, then at Neptune. Her intent was clear.

Ashley tilted her head, confused but intrigued. "Wait, you want to help him master the move yourself?"

Proserpina nodded firmly, her petals quivering as if to emphasize her point.

"Alright then." Ashley held up her hands in surrender, a small grin tugging at her lips. "You know Giga Drain better than anyone else on the team. If you think you've got this, go for it."

Neptune let out a soft hum, tilting his head as he watched Proserpina shuffle closer. The Lapras seemed curious, his large eyes following every deliberate movement of the Gloom.

Proserpina turned to Neptune, her petals drooping slightly, and let out a quiet hum of her own. Ashley could see it now—there was something more going on here. Proserpina wasn't just eager to teach; she was still processing her loss to Erika's Weepinbell. The usually easygoing Gloom carried a weight today, and Ashley chose not to interfere. Whatever was driving Proserpina, it was important enough for her to take charge.

Proserpina raised her stubby arms and began to sway gently, demonstrating the glowing green tendrils of energy that emanated from her petals. The soft hum she emitted grew into a deeper, resonant sound, and the tendrils reached out toward a small bush nearby. The moment they connected, the plant seemed to wither slightly as energy flowed back into Proserpina, causing her petals to glow faintly brighter.

Neptune blinked, watching intently. Proserpina repeated the process, this time slower, her movements more deliberate. The tendrils glowed vividly in the dim light, almost hypnotic in their movement. She then gestured with her leaves, motioning for Neptune to try.

The Lapras hesitated for a moment, his gaze shifting between Proserpina and the bush. He let out a questioning trill, unsure if he could replicate the move.

"You've got this, Neptune," Ashley encouraged, leaning forward slightly. "Just focus and follow her lead."

Proserpina nodded, her expression softening as she hummed again, urging Neptune to attempt the move. The Lapras closed his eyes, his body glowing faintly as he concentrated. Slowly, tendrils of green energy began to form, wavering unsteadily at first.

"That's it!" Ashley cheered, her hands clapping softly. "Keep it steady, big guy!"

Neptune's tendrils reached out, connecting with the bush. The transfer of energy was shaky, the tendrils flickering like a weak flame, but they managed to draw a faint pulse of energy back toward him. The bush drooped slightly, its leaves losing some of their vibrancy.

Proserpina's petals perked up, and she let out an approving hum, her stubby arms gesturing for Neptune to try again. This time, she demonstrated with exaggerated movements, emphasizing the rhythm of the attack.

Neptune mimicked her motions, his body glowing brighter as he found his rhythm. The tendrils formed more confidently, wrapping around the bush with a steadiness that hadn't been there before. The energy transfer was smoother now, and Neptune's shell gleamed faintly as he absorbed the energy.

"Yes!" Ashley leapt to her feet, grinning ear to ear. "That's it, Neptune! You nailed it!"

Neptune let out a triumphant cry, his eyes sparkling with pride. Proserpina stepped back, her petals swaying as she hummed contentedly. The tension in her posture seemed to ease, and for the first time that night, she looked genuinely at peace.

Ashley crouched beside Proserpina, giving her a gentle pat on the head. "You did a great job, can you keep it up? I think I can leave him in your hands."

Proserpina gave a soft chirp, nudging Ashley's hand with her petals before waddling back toward the fire. Neptune, still glowing faintly from the successful Giga Drain, followed, his melodic hum blending with the crackle of the fire.

Ashley watched them both with a smile, feeling a swell of pride for her team. As she sat back down, her heart felt lighter, as she watched her team growing, supporting each other, and becoming stronger together.

Ashley leaned back against the trunk of a large tree, her legs stretched out in front of her as she let the cool shade wash over her. The sun was relentless today, and even with the faint breeze blowing across Route 8, the heat was enough to make her shirt stick to her back. She tugged at the collar, fanning herself with her cap as Neptune and Proserpina continued their training.

Ashley sighed, pulling her PokéNav from her bag. She hadn't called her dad in a couple of days, and the Game Corner situation had been nagging at the back of her mind ever since she first reported it. With a quick swipe, she pulled up his contact and hit the call button.

The familiar ringtone buzzed before the screen lit up with her dad's face. His Ranger uniform was visible in the background, along with the faint sound of commotion—probably a busy day at the outpost.

"Hey, kiddo!" His voice was warm and energetic, but Ashley didn't miss the hint of weariness in his eyes. "How's Celadon treating you? Got that badge yet?"

Ashley chuckled, leaning her head back against the tree. "Got it. Erika's no joke, but we managed it. I am out of the city already, on Route 8 to Saffron City. But I wanted to ask about the Pokémon from the Game Corner. How's everything going with that?"

Her dad's expression shifted, his usual light-hearted demeanor replaced with something heavier. He let out a long breath, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, I'll be honest with you, Ashy—it's a mess. A real bureaucratic nightmare."

Ashley frowned, sitting up straighter. "How bad are we talking?"

"Pretty bad," he admitted, his tone growing more serious. "There are so many rare Pokémon involved—stuff you don't usually see outside of their home regions. We're talking Bagon, Larvitar, and even some Fossil Pokémon. They were clearly being trafficked for big money, but now the question is, what do we do with them?"

Ashley tilted her head, confusion knitting her brows. "What do you mean? Can't you just send them back to their regions?"

Her dad let out another sigh, shaking his head. "It's not that simple. A lot of these Pokémon have been in captivity for who knows how long. Some of them aren't fit to be released into the wild—not yet, anyway. They need rehabilitation first. But then there's the other issue: do we rehabilitate them here or send them back to their regions and let the local authorities handle it?"

Ashley's lips pressed into a thin line. She could feel the frustration radiating through the screen, and it made her stomach twist. "So, what's the hold-up? Why not just decide?"

Her dad laughed, but it was humorless. "Because, Ashley, this is the world of paperwork. Every region has its own protocols, its own way of handling things. Johto's Rangers want the Johto-native Pokémon back immediately, but Hoenn's officials are saying they'd rather wait until the Pokémon are healthy. Then you've got Kalos chiming in about how certain species might need specialized care. Everyone's arguing over what's best, and in the meantime, those poor Pokémon are stuck in limbo."

Ashley's hand tightened around the PokéNav. "That's ridiculous! They're Pokémon, not some kind of... of international trade goods! Why can't everyone just work together for once?"

Her dad gave her a wry smile. "You sound like a true Ranger, Ashley. Maybe you'll follow in my footsteps after all."

Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, well, someone's gotta have some common sense around here."

He chuckled, his tone softening. "I know it's frustrating. But the good news is, they're safe now. We've got some of our best people on this. They'll get the care they need—it's just going to take time."

Ashley leaned back again, her fingers tapping against the edge of the PokéNav. "I just... I can't stop thinking about it. What if we hadn't noticed? What if they were still there?"

Her dad's expression softened, a mixture of pride and concern in his eyes. "But you did notice, Ashy. You saw something wrong and acted on it. That's more than most people would've done. And because of you, those Pokémon have a chance at a better life."

Ashley let the words sink in, her chest loosening slightly as the tension began to ebb away. She glanced over at her team—Vulcan dozing peacefully, Venus absently plucking at a blade of grass—and felt a small surge of determination.

"Yeah," she said softly, more to herself than anyone. "I guess you're right."

Her dad grinned. "Of course I'm right. That's my job. Now, you focus on your journey and let me handle the paperwork, okay?"

"Deal," Ashley said, a faint laugh escaping her. "But don't think I'm letting you off the hook. I want updates."

"You'll be the first to know, kiddo. Promise." He gave her a quick salute before glancing off-screen. "Looks like duty calls. Talk soon, alright?"

"Yeah. Thanks, Dad." Ashley ended the call and let out a long breath, her shoulders relaxing as she ended the call and slipped her PokéNav into her bag, her mind still swirling with the weight of her father's words. She leaned back against the tree and exhaled deeply, letting the cool shade soothe her.

And then she froze.

Something warm and surprisingly heavy was draped around her shoulders. For a split second, her instincts screamed danger, but then she caught sight of the familiar, smooth blue scales curling just under her chin.

"Apollo!" Ashley yelped, craning her neck to get a better look at the Dratini. "When did you—? Seriously?"

Apollo, clearly unbothered by her sudden alarm, let out a soft coo and nuzzled her cheek, his serpentine body snugly wrapped around her like a scarf. His bright eyes blinked at her innocently, as if to say, What's the problem?

Ashley snorted, shaking her head. "Oh, so this is your thing now, huh? You're gonna be a scarf? Should I add you to my outfit? Call it the 'Dragon Wrap' look?"

Apollo hummed, his tail giving a small flick as he adjusted himself to sit more comfortably around her shoulders. Ashley couldn't help but laugh, reaching up to scratch the spot under his chin that always made him wriggle with delight.

"You're ridiculous, you know that?" she teased, her tone light but fond. "But, hey, at least you're cute. Fashionable and functional."

Apollo's tail thumped lightly against her shoulder in what she could only interpret as agreement.

Ashley shifted her position slightly, leaning forward to rest her arms on her knees. Her gaze drifted toward the horizon, where the faint outline of Saffron City was just visible beyond the hills. The memory of her dad's words lingered, and for a moment, the laughter faded.

"Man, I really wish I could've seen those Pokémon," she murmured, mostly to herself but loud enough that Apollo let out a questioning trill. "I mean, it's not every day you hear about a Larvitar or a Fossil Pokémon just... sitting in some shady Game Corner."

Apollo tilted his head, his body tightening slightly around her neck as if he sensed her mixed emotions.

Ashley sighed, running a hand through her damp hair. "But, yeah, I get it. They've been through a lot. Probably way more than I can even imagine. They don't need some rookie trainer like me dragging them around the region. They need stability, y'know? A place to heal."

Her fingers absentmindedly scratched Apollo's scales as she spoke. "Still... it sucks. Feels like there's so much I can't do yet. But at least they're in good hands now, right? That's what matters."

Apollo gave a soft chirp, his tail flicking against her cheek in what felt like reassurance. Ashley smiled, the tension in her chest easing slightly.

"And hey," she added, her grin turning mischievous, "at least I didn't walk away empty-handed. That reward money from ratting out the Game Corner intel? Oh, it's so good."

She leaned back against the tree again, her grin widening as she thought about the payout. "Seriously, that shopping spree in Celadon? Covered. And I've got plenty left over for supplies, too. It's like I hit the jackpot twice."

Apollo cooed, and Ashley could've sworn the Dratini looked smug, his head held high as if he'd played some part in her success.

"Don't you start taking credit," she said, poking him lightly in the side. "Unless you secretly hacked into their security system, that cash was all me."

Apollo's response was to nuzzle her cheek again, clearly unbothered by her teasing. Ashley laughed, the sound ringing out into the quiet of the clearing. For the first time since leaving Celadon, she felt lighter, the heaviness of the past few days finally starting to fade.

She reached up and gently adjusted Apollo, letting him slide off her shoulders and into her lap. "Alright, buddy," she said, her tone soft but determined. "Break time's over. Let's head back to camp. We've got a lot more to do before we hit Saffron."

Apollo let out a cheerful cry, his body coiling slightly as if ready to spring into action. Ashley stood, dusting off her shorts and slipping her cap back onto her head. She looked down at her Pokémon with a smile.

"C'mon, scarf boy," she teased, slinging her bag over her shoulder. "Let's show the rest of the team what we've been up to."

With Apollo trailing close behind, his scales glinting in the sunlight, Ashley set off toward camp, ready to tackle whatever came next. Ashley settled herself at the edge of camp, her PokéNav in hand, the screen glowing softly as she skimmed through the messages Erika had sent her. Apollo was curled up beside her, his serpentine body coiled like a spring, while Mars lounged near the fire. But Ashley's mind buzzed too much for rest.

She squinted at the screen, scrolling through Erika's advice. The Grass-type Gym Leader's words were precise, almost elegant in how she described each move and its potential. Erika was explaining how difficult it was for Proserpina to show off her abilities, when most of her repertoire relied on status effect moves. Erika advised expanding her moveset with Magical Leaf, Seed Bomb, and Grassy Terrain.

Ashley tapped her chin, her thumb idly scrolling back up. "Magical Leaf, huh? Sounds like a guaranteed hit move might save us from another Vine Whip situation," she muttered. "Erika's right. If we rely too much on poison clouds and spores, we're gonna hit a wall eventually. Seed Bomb could give her a real punch. And Grassy Terrain? She'd be setting the stage for the whole team."

Ashley smirked, leaning back against a tree trunk. "We'll start working on these moves as soon as we hit Saffron. Speaking of—" She clicked open another message from Erika, her brows lifting as she read. "There's a Contest in Saffron next week. She's practically daring us to show up."

Apollo perked up at that, his head tilting. Ashley patted bellow his chin until he purred, before taking out her notebook. The PokéNav has an app that allows you to take notes, but Ashley has always preferred to write by hand. There's something about the touch of paper.

Ashley tapped the end of her pencil against the edge of her notebook, her thoughts spiraling into a plan. The warm glow of the campfire flickered across the page as she sketched out her ideas, the faint scratch of lead on paper mingling with the soft crackle of burning wood. Apollo coiled himself around Ashley's shoulders again, his cool, smooth scales comforting as he peered curiously at the notebook. Mars was curled up closer to the fire, his tail flame casting playful shadows against the trees.

"Alright," Ashley said, breaking the silence, "if we're gonna make this work, it's gotta be something that really stands out. Proserpina is not just competing—she is making a statement."

"I thought of Grassy Terrain. It's bright, it's lively, and it gets the stage looking like a natural masterpiece. But it does not show anything from part of the Pokémon. The judges will expect the coordinators to create a Grassy Terrain-worthy garden from a combination of different moves, not just with one more." Ashley continued, her voice turning thoughtful. "Also, Seed Bomb on its own is not very impactful for the appeal round. Maybe if combined with Grassy Terrain, but we've only got a week. So, we have to focus—no overcomplicating things. We should focus on only teaching Proserpina one move."

"And I think Magical Leaf is the move to do it." Ashley scrawled down the words, underlining Magical Leaf three times. "See, this move has got it all—precision, flashiness, and no chance of missing. It's practically begging to be part of an appeal."

Apollo let out a soft trill, leaning over her shoulder to flick his tail across the page, as if he were approving of the plan. Mars snorted lightly in his sleep, his ears twitching as if he were somehow still following the conversation.

Ashley sat back down, flipping to a fresh page in her notebook to jot down a rough training schedule. The fire crackled softly, and the night stretched out around them, calm and serene. As she wrote, her mind buzzed with excitement. This wasn't just about winning a ribbon—it was about rebuilding Proserpina's confidence and showing the world what her team could do.

Ashley tapped her pencil against her chin, her notebook balanced on her knee as she lounged near the campfire. The soft glow of embers lit her face, while her team relaxed around her. Venus sprawled out by her side, her soft tail twitching with the occasional crackle of the fire, while Vulcan sat nearby, his ears flicking every so often at the distant sound of wild Pokémon. Neptune rested closer to the edge of the clearing, his shell reflecting the firelight as he watched Ashley quietly, his melodic hum almost lulling everyone into a sense of calm.

"Alright," Ashley muttered, her eyes narrowed in thought as she stared at the page in front of her. She had the appeal round locked in for Proserpina. Now came the harder part—who to pick for the battle round? Her gaze drifted toward Venus, the little Eevee grooming herself lazily but with an unmistakable air of pride.

Ashley smirked. "You've been killing it lately, huh, girl?" she said, ruffling the Eevee's soft fur. Venus let out a chirp of agreement, nuzzling Ashley's hand in response.

"No kidding," Ashley continued, more to herself now. "Iron Tail? Last Resort? And don't even get me started on Wish. You're practically a powerhouse." She paused, scratching the back of her head. "But you already crushed it in a contest before. Should I let you have another go, or save you for Erika's gym?"

Venus paused her grooming, tilting her head curiously as if waiting for Ashley to elaborate. Vulcan gave a huff from his spot by the fire, clearly unimpressed by the indecision.

"Don't start," Ashley said, waving him off. "This is strategy, not second-guessing."

Her gaze flickered to Neptune. The Lapras sat serenely, his deep blue eyes reflecting the stars above. He'd been a standout in the Celadon gym battle, but unlike Venus, he hadn't stepped into the contest spotlight yet. His strength was undeniable—he could handle the variability of battle rounds in a contest if she gave him the right prep.

"Neptune could take it," she said aloud, her pencil hovering over his name in her notebook. "He's got that natural grace, and we've been working on his Ice Beam. If I polish his transitions, he could wow the judges. But... Venus is so quick. She's got the agility to adapt to weird combos."

Apollo, curled around her neck like a scarf, gave a soft trill, his tail flicking idly against her arm. Ashley reached up to pat him absently. "You're out of this one, buddy. Contests are all about versatility, and you're still growing. Don't worry, you'll get your time. Maybe after you evolve."

Apollo gave a soft chirp of understanding, nestling closer against her neck. His cool scales were soothing, even as Ashley continued to wrestle with her options.

"Here's the thing," she said, leaning back and addressing her team. "If Venus does the gym, it makes sense to let Neptune try the contest. He's never done one, and he could really surprise everyone. Plus, Venus can handle the pressure of a gym battle. But..." She trailed off, chewing on the end of her pencil.

Vulcan rolled his eyes—or at least, Ashley swore he did. "Don't give me that look," she teased, tossing a small pebble in his direction. "It's called planning."

Venus sat up straighter, her tail swishing with renewed vigor as if to remind Ashley she was still a top contender. Neptune, ever patient, let out a soft hum, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to Venus's playful energy.

"Alright, fine," Ashley said, tossing her pencil down with a sigh. "Proserpina does the appeal, Neptune gets the contest battle rounds. Venus, you're taking on Sabrina with the rest of the team. No complaints."

Venus chirped happily, bouncing in place, while Neptune inclined his head slightly, as if acknowledging the challenge with quiet dignity. Proserpina, however, shifted awkwardly on her stubby legs, her gaze dropping to the ground. Her petals quivered slightly, and Ashley could tell by the way she avoided eye contact that something was bothering her.

Ashley straightened, resting her hands on her hips as she tilted her head. "Proserpina? What's up?"

The Gloom let out a low hum, her petals drooping ever so slightly. She shuffled in place, her hesitation clear as day. Neptune and Venus exchanged glances, with Venus giving Proserpina a gentle nudge of encouragement.

Ashley crouched back down, her expression softening. "Hey, come on, talk to me," she said gently. "You've been through way tougher stuff than this. I mean, you're the queen of status moves! This appeal round is gonna be perfect for you."

Proserpina didn't look convinced. She let out another hum, this one tinged with doubt, and turned her head slightly to avoid Ashley's gaze.

Ashley sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. "Alright," she said, sitting cross-legged in front of her Pokémon. "Let's get real for a second. I know Erika's Weepinbell was rough. And yeah, the Venomoth before too. But you've grown so much since then, Proserpina. You've been training like crazy. You even taught Neptune Giga Drain! That's not nothing."

The Gloom glanced up at her trainer, her eyes softening slightly, though the doubt still lingered. Ashley grinned, leaning forward to poke one of Proserpina's petals. "Look, this isn't just about winning. It's about showing everyone what you've got. And trust me, you've got a lot. You're gonna make that appeal round look like a piece of cake."

Venus chimed in with an enthusiastic chirp, hopping up to bump Proserpina lightly with her head. Neptune hummed his agreement, his calm, steady presence adding weight to Venus's encouragement.

"See?" Ashley said, gesturing to the others. "We all believe in you. Now it's your turn. What do you say?"

Proserpina hesitated for another moment, her petals trembling faintly. Then, with a deep breath, she straightened her posture, her petals lifting as a faint glow returned to her leaves. She let out a determined hum, nodding firmly at Ashley.

"That's what I'm talking about!" Ashley said, her grin widening. She reached out to scratch Proserpina lightly under her petals, earning a soft, pleased hum from the Grass-type. "You're gonna crush this. I can feel it."

Venus let out another chirp, hopping onto Ashley's lap and wagging her tail as if to say, What about me? Ashley laughed, ruffling the Eevee's fur. "Don't worry, you're gonna crush it too, Miss Gym Challenger."

Neptune rumbled softly, and Ashley turned her attention to the Lapras. "And you, big guy. Battle rounds are all about poise and precision. You've got both in spades. I just need you to show it off."

Neptune dipped his head in acknowledgment, his serene confidence grounding the group.

"Okay," she said, standing and stretching. "Let's call it a night. Tomorrow, we hit the ground running. Proserpina's got appeal practice, and Neptune? You're learning how to strut your stuff in battle rounds. Venus, get ready to face some Grass-types. I need all of you at your best."

Her team responded with soft cries and determined nods, their confidence feeding into Ashley's own. As she packed up her notebook, she felt a flicker of excitement. The Saffron contest and gym battle loomed ahead, but with a solid plan and her team behind her, she was ready for whatever came next.

The week of training on Route 8 that followed had been grueling but rewarding. As Ashley approached the gates of Saffron City, she couldn't help but feel a swell of pride and excitement. Proserpina's Magical Leaf was razor-sharp and precise, Neptune's battling reflexes had significantly improved, and Venus had mastered the flow of her Wish-Iron Tail-Last Resort combo. Her team was coming together beautifully.

When she arrived at the Pokémon Center, her first stop was the front desk. "Hi, Nurse Joy!" she greeted, offering her Trainer ID. "Can I get a room, heal up my Pokémon, and sign up for the Saffron Contest?"

Nurse Joy smiled warmly as she took Ashley's ID. "Of course! Welcome to Saffron City. Let me get you all set up." She handed Ashley a registration form for the contest. "While I'm healing your Pokémon, go ahead and fill this out. The Contest Hall is expecting a lot of participants this time, so it's best to sign up early."

Ashley nodded eagerly, thanking Nurse Joy as she grabbed the form and a pen. She plopped down at a nearby table, scribbling her details while occasionally glancing at the Poké Balls resting on the counter. Just as she was about to finish, a sudden movement made her freeze. Something yanked her hat off her head.

"Hey!" she yelped, spinning around in her chair. Her eyes landed on a grinning Haunter floating a few feet away, holding her hat in his ghostly claws. The mischievous Pokémon waggled his tongue at her, clearly enjoying its prank.

"Oh, come on," Ashley groaned, standing up and placing her hands on her hips. "Give it back, you spooky little thief!"

A familiar laugh rang out behind her. "You're still fun to mess with, huh?"

Ashley turned sharply, her eyes narrowing as she recognized the figure leaning casually against the doorframe. It was the same trainer she'd met shortly back on Cinnabar Island. His dark hoodie was slung loosely over one shoulder, and his Haunter floated beside him, holding her hat like a trophy.

"You again?" Ashley huffed, though she couldn't help the small smirk tugging at her lips. "Did I not tell you to keep that Haunter in check?"

The trainer chuckled, his Haunter drifting over to place the hat back on Ashley's head. "What can I say? You're a good sport." He crossed his arms, his grin widening. "So, how's that cute little Charmander of yours?"

Ashley adjusted her hat, smoothing her hair underneath it as she answered proudly. "Mars is doing great. He's a Charmeleon now, and he's with Nurse Joy getting healed up."

The trainer let out a low whistle, clearly impressed. "Charmeleon, huh? Sounds like you've been putting in some serious work." He gave her a mock salute. "Guess I'll have to watch my back. See you at the Contest Hall."

With that, he turned and strode out of the Pokémon Center, his Haunter following close behind, giggling as he floated through the wall. Ashley stood there for a moment, blinking in surprise. "What just happened?" she muttered to herself. "Seems like he is a coordinator too…"

Returning to her seat, Ashley shook her head, trying to shake off her confusion as she finished the form. When Nurse Joy returned with her Pokémon, Ashley thanked her and slipped the registration form across the counter. "All set! Thanks, Nurse Joy."

As she clipped her Poké Balls back onto her belt, she couldn't help but glance at the door, half-expecting the trainer and his Haunter to pop back in. When they didn't, she sighed and looked down at her team. "Alright, guys. Saffron Contest, here we come. Let's show them what we've got!"

The next day, Ashley arrived at the Saffron Contest Hall with her team in tow. The grand building sparkled in the sunlight, its intricate architecture giving off an air of elegance. Ashley adjusted her fuchsia kimono, the silver leaf designs shimmering as they caught the light. She had tied her hair into an elegant bun, secured with a delicate sakura blossom pin—her trademark Contest look.

"Alright, girl," she said, looking down at Proserpina. "This is our big day. Let's show Saffron what we're made of!" Proserpina gave a confident sway of her petals, though there was still a hint of nervousness in her expression.

As they entered the Contest Hall, the air was buzzing with excitement. Trainers and their Pokémon moved about in a flurry of preparation. Some were practicing moves, others were adjusting costumes or accessories, and a few were seated in quiet corners, mentally preparing for the competition. Ashley's eyes darted around, taking in the energy of the room, when she spotted a familiar face—or rather, a familiar ghostly grin.

There he was, the mysterious trainer from the Pokémon Center, standing near the door with his Haunter floating mischievously by his side. But this time, his usual laid-back vibe was replaced by something more dramatic. He wore a black suit with a high collar, a flowing cape draped over one shoulder, and a white half-mask covering one side of his face. If Ashley hadn't known better, she would've thought he'd walked straight out of a play—Phantom of the Opera, anyone?

Ashley let out a short laugh, unable to help herself. "Well, if it isn't Mr. Theatrics," she muttered under her breath. She strode toward him, her kimono swishing softly as she walked. "Ashley Ketchum."

The trainer turned at the sound of her voice, his mask glinting under the Contest Hall's bright lights. His lips curled into a smirk. "Damian Hart," he said, his voice carrying a smooth, almost playful tone. He gestured to Proserpina, who was standing close to Ashley's feet, "I'm guessing today's star isn't your Charmeleon."

Ashley shook her head, crouching to gently pat Proserpina's petals. "Nope. This is Proserpina's time to shine. We're going for elegance and precision."

Damian raised an eyebrow, his Haunter cackling beside him. "Interesting. I'll be watching closely."

Before Ashley could respond, Lillian stepped onto the stage and addressed the crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Saffron City Pokémon Contest! Today's competitors are some of the region's finest, and they're here to dazzle us with their skill, creativity, and the bond they share with their Pokémon!"

The audience erupted into cheers, the sound reverberating through the hall. Ashley felt her heart pound with excitement and nerves as Damian adjusted his cape and flashed her a grin. "Showtime," he said simply, before turning and heading onto stage. His Haunter floated after him, spinning in the air with an eerie giggle.

Ashley watched him go, rolling her eyes but smiling all the same. "He's so dramatic. It's like he's performing before he even gets on stage."

"Gloom?" Proserpina tilted her head, clearly unsure what to make of Damian and his ghostly companion.

"Don't worry about them," Ashley said, giving Proserpina a reassuring smile. "We've got our own performance to focus on. And it's going to blow them away."

A short while later, Ashley found herself backstage, waiting for her turn. Damian's name was called, and she sat at the bench to watch his performance by the TV. The stage was bathed in dim, flickering light, casting long shadows that danced across the walls. Haunter floated to the center, his eerie grin and glowing eyes amplified by the dramatic lighting.

"Night Shade," Damian commanded, his voice carrying a smooth confidence.

Haunter's eyes glowed a sinister red, and the stage was consumed by dark, swirling energy. Shapes began to form in the darkness—phantom figures that twisted and writhed, their ghostly forms both terrifying and mesmerizing. The audience gasped, some leaning forward in their seats while others shivered at the haunting display.

"Hypnosis," Damian said, his tone lower this time, almost a whisper.

Haunter's eyes shimmered again, casting rings of pale light that spun outward, creating a hypnotic effect. The phantom shapes moved in time with the rings, their motions synchronized like a haunting ballet. It was eerie yet oddly beautiful, the kind of performance that left an impression long after it ended.

As Haunter finished with a dramatic Shadow Ball that exploded in midair like dark fireworks, the crowd erupted into cheers. Damian bowed slightly, his cape sweeping behind him as he exited the stage with a flourish.

Backstage, Ashley let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "Okay. That was... something."

"Gloom," Proserpina murmured, glancing at Ashley with wide eyes.

Ashley crouched down, resting a hand on her Pokémon's head. "Hey, don't let it rattle you. We've got a whole different vibe, and it's going to be just as good. Trust me." Proserpina straightened, nodding firmly. Ashley smiled, feeling a surge of pride. "That's my girl. Let's show them what real teamwork looks like."

Ashley made her way to the stage, her heart pounding, but for once, it wasn't from nerves. She was excited. The energy of the Contest Hall buzzed around her as Lillian called her name. "And now, please welcome Ashley Ketchum from Pallet Town to the stage!"

She took a deep breath and adjusted the pin holding her hair in place. "Alright, Proserpina, this is our moment," she whispered, holding up Proserpina's Poké Ball. With a flick of her wrist, she released her Pokémon onto the stage.

Proserpina appeared in a dazzling burst of light, surrounded by a flurry of shimmering petals. The crowd gasped in awe as the little Gloom waddled forward, her confidence already shining through. Ashley stepped into the spotlight, her fuchsia kimono catching the light of the arena.

"Let's get started, Proserpina!" Ashley called, her voice steady and sure. "Sweet Scent!"

Proserpina swayed her stubby arms, releasing a soft, shimmering mist into the air. The scent was rich and intoxicating, carrying hints of blooming flowers and honey. The petals from her entrance began to swirl in the air, carried by the fragrant wind. The mist sparkled under the stage lights, catching the audience's attention and pulling them into the performance.

"Beautiful!" Ashley cheered. "Now, Magical Leaf!"

Proserpina's petals glowed faintly before glowing shards of energy shot into the air, swirling through the mist. The Magical Leaves arced gracefully, weaving between the petals as if performing a synchronized dance. The colors were vibrant, a mix of emerald greens and soft purples, creating a stunning visual contrast against the golden light of the stage.

The audience murmured in awe, leaning forward in their seats.

Ashley grinned. "Time to step it up—Stun Spore!"

Proserpina shook her petals, releasing a fine, golden dust that spread through the air. The glittering spores caught the Magical Leaves and petals mid-flight, halting their motion as if time itself had paused. The stage transformed into a surreal tableau: frozen leaves and petals hung in midair, shimmering under the lights, the entire scene resembling a starlit night frozen in time.

The crowd was silent for a moment, then gasped in amazement.

Ashley's voice rang out with confidence. "Now, Sunny Day!"

Proserpina raised her face to the ceiling, releasing a glowing orb of light that shot upward. It burst high above the stage, casting the entire arena in a radiant golden glow. The light illuminated the frozen arrangement of petals and leaves, revealing the intricate design Ashley and Proserpina had planned—a breathtaking bouquet etched against the ceiling, as if painted by nature itself.

The crowd erupted into cheers, applause echoing through the Contest Hall. Ashley looked out at the audience, but her focus wasn't on the applause or the judges' reactions. Instead, she watched Proserpina, who stood at the center of the stage, basking in the golden light of her own creation.

For the first time since their battles with Erika, Proserpina's posture was confident, her petals swaying proudly. This wasn't just a win for the Contest; it was a win for her.

Ashley stood, raising her hand with a grin. "Let's hear it for Proserpina!"

The crowd's cheers grew louder, and Proserpina turned to face them, her petals glowing faintly with the residual sunlight. For the first time, she didn't flinch under the attention. Instead, she seemed to bloom under it.

As they left the stage, Ashley caught sight of Damian backstage. His arms were crossed, and his Haunter floated lazily beside him, but there was no denying the impressed smirk on his face.

"Not bad," Damian said as Ashley passed.

Ashley tilted her head, her grin playful. "Not bad? Please, that was incredible."

Damian chuckled. "Fair enough. Let's see how it holds up in the rankings."

Ashley waved him off as she turned to Proserpina. "Don't let him get in your head. You've already won where it matters."

Proserpina chirped in agreement, her confidence unshaken as they prepared for the next round.

Ashley moved to stand among the bustling trainers and their Pokémon, the air electric with anticipation. The TV in the center of the room lit up, displaying the rankings from the appeal round. The crowd around her hushed as names began to scroll.

First Place: Damian and Haunter.
Second Place: Ashley and Proserpina.

Ashley's eyes widened, and she couldn't stop the grin spreading across her face. "Second place!" she whispered, turning to Proserpina, who stood beside her with her petals swaying lightly. "We did it!"

Proserpina chirped, puffing herself up as if to say, Of course we did.

Damian, leaning casually against the wall nearby, turned at the sound of Ashley's voice. His smirk was already firmly in place as he straightened up and sauntered over. His Haunter floated behind him, his mischievous grin matching his trainer's.

"Well, well," Damian drawled, gesturing lazily at the screen. "Looks like you're right behind me, fuchsia girl. Second place, huh?"

Ashley crossed her arms, tilting her head at him. "Don't sound too surprised. We came to win, remember?"

Damian chuckled, the sound low and confident. "Winning's good and all, but you're gonna have to go through the battle rounds first. You think you can handle it?"

Ashley's grin didn't falter. "Oh, I'm not just handling it. I'm coming for you in the finals."

Damian raised an eyebrow, impressed by her boldness, and clapped his hands once, the sound sharp and echoing through the room. "That's what I like to hear. Bring your A-game, though. I don't want any excuses when my team wipe the floor with you."

Ashley rolled her eyes, waving him off. "Yeah, yeah. Talk all you want. I'm not the one hiding behind scary faces and cheap tricks."

"Cheap tricks?" Damian scoffed, his smirk widening. "Haunter, did you hear that? She thinks we're cheap."

Haunter laughed, his voice echoing eerily as he spun in a circle around Damian, waving his claws for dramatic effect.

Ashley pointed at them, her tone playful but firm. "Oh, I heard it. And you'd better hear this: we're not scared of you. We're making it to the finals, and when we do, you'll see just how far a little teamwork and creativity can go."

Proserpina nodded along, her petals puffing slightly as if to emphasize Ashley's point.

Damian shrugged, but the gleam in his eye said he was looking forward to the challenge. "Alright, fuchsia girl. Let's see if you can back that up."

Before Ashley could respond, Lillian's voice boomed through the speakers, calling trainers to prepare for the first battle round. The room buzzed with activity as trainers rushed to check on their Pokémon and finalize their strategies.

Damian gave Ashley a lazy salute as he turned to leave. "Don't choke," he called over his shoulder.

Ashley stuck her tongue out at his back. "Don't trip over your ego!" she shot back, earning a laugh from a few nearby trainers who overheard.

Turning to Proserpina, Ashley knelt and placed a hand gently on her petals. "Alright, Proserpina, your part's done, and you nailed it. Time to rest up. Let's cheer Neptune on in the battle rounds, yeah?"

Proserpina let out a happy hum, her confidence shining brighter than ever as Ashley returned her to her Poké Ball. Standing up, Ashley grabbed the next Poké Ball from her belt, holding it tightly in her hand. Her reflection in its polished surface stared back at her, determined.

"You ready for this, Neptune?" she whispered to the ball before stepping toward the arena entrance, the roar of the crowd growing louder with every step.

The battle rounds came and went, Damian used his Tyrogue to make it to the finals, while Ashley and Neptune crushed the competition to the top. Neptune was truly becoming a moving fortress, who was so much like the myths of his namesake and the sea. Sweet at times, whenever he is not battling, and a terror at other times, a true weather nightmare in battle. In between battles.

Backstage, Ashley leaned against the cool metal wall of the Contest Hall's waiting area, trying to steady her breathing. The buzz of activity from earlier rounds had died down, replaced by an almost eerie quiet. Only two trainers remained now: her and Damian.

Neptune rested in a corner, his serene expression belying the powerhouse he had proven himself to be in the battle rounds. His shell gleamed from a quick wipe-down Ashley had given him after their last match, and his fins twitched occasionally as if itching for the next fight.

"You're a nightmare, you know that?" Ashley said with a teasing grin, crouching down to meet Neptune's eyes. "Out there, you're like the ocean itself. Calm one second, crashing down the next."

Neptune let out a soft, melodic trill, tilting his head toward Ashley in response. She reached up to rub the smooth ridge of his neck, her fingers tracing over the faint lines of battle scuffs he'd earned earlier. "But seriously, you're amazing, Neptune. You're making us look good."

From across the room, Damian spoke up, his voice carrying a smirk. "Oh yeah, you looked real good out there. For a second, I thought that last Mach Punch might've had you, but nope. Your fortress of a Lapras just shrugs it all off like it's nothing."

Ashley turned her head, raising an eyebrow. "Jealous?"

Damian was sitting cross-legged on the floor, tossing a small Poké Ball up and down absentmindedly. Haunter floated behind him, making exaggerated spooky faces at Proserpina, who swayed back and forth, giggling softly. Despite their trainers' banter, the two Pokémon seemed to have hit it off during the downtime.

"Jealous?" Damian echoed, his grin widening. "Not really. Tyrogue's been holding his own just fine. Besides, Haunter would wipe the floor with your fortress. Ghosts don't care about walls."

Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn't help laughing. "Oh, please. Haunter might be great at spooking people, but Neptune's all business. He'd drown you in a tidal wave before you even had time to smirk."

Haunter, hearing his trainer's name, floated over dramatically, pretending to collapse in front of Neptune like he'd already been defeated. Neptune blinked down at him, unimpressed, before letting out a gentle trill and nudging the ghost with his nose.

Damian chuckled. "See? Haunter's got flair. That's what counts."

"You're getting a little too comfortable with that first-place energy. I think it's time we take you down a peg," Ashley shot back, standing and stretching.

"Oh, is that right?" Damian stood as well, crossing his arms. "You're assuming you're ready for me."

Ashley smirked, leaning slightly forward. "I'm always ready."

The tension in the air between them shifted, lighthearted banter giving way to the weight of the looming final battle.

The silence was broken by the intercom crackling to life. "Finalists, please report to the main stage. The final battle will begin in fifteen minutes."

Ashley exhaled, her hand brushing against Neptune's neck. "Alright, big guy. This is it. You ready?"

Neptune let out a melodic cry, his gaze calm but determined. Ashley smiled and returned him to his Poké Ball, clipping it securely to her belt.

She turned to Damian, who was doing the same with Tyrogue. "Guess it's just us now," she said, glancing around the nearly empty backstage area. The once-busy space was eerily still, with only the faint hum of distant cheers from the crowd.

Damian shrugged, sliding his hands into his pockets. "Yeah, kinda feels like a ghost town back here, doesn't it? Fitting."

Ashley rolled her eyes, adjusting her kimono. "I'm not scared of ghosts, Damian."

"No," he replied, his smirk returning. "You're scared of losing to me."

Ashley snorted. "Keep dreaming."

They stood there for a moment, the playful banter falling into a quiet understanding. Both trainers knew what was at stake, and despite their trash talk, there was mutual respect.

Finally, Ashley broke the silence, her grin softening. "May the best trainer win."

Damian raised an eyebrow, his smirk still intact. "Oh, I plan to."

Ashley laughed, turning toward the exit that led to the main stage. Proserpina trotted up beside her, giving her a reassuring nudge before she returned the Gloom to her Poké Ball. With one last glance back at Damian, Ashley strode confidently toward the stage, her heart pounding with anticipation. This was it—the final battle. And she wasn't going down without a fight.

Lillian's voice boomed across the arena, "Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting for—the final round! Please welcome our contestants, Damian and Ashley!"

Ashley stepped onto the stage, her heart pounding in rhythm with the cheers of the crowd. She adjusted her hat, glancing at Neptune's Poké Ball in her hand. "Alright, buddy," she whispered. "Let's show them the power of the ocean." She tossed the Poké Ball into the air with a confident flourish.

A burst of light emerged, and Neptune appeared in a swirl of water droplets, his shell gleaming under the stage lights as his melodic cry resonated through the arena.

Across the stage, Damian smirked and released his Tyrogue. The Fighting-type landed on the rain-slicked battlefield with a sharp, disciplined stance. He flexed his arms, his expression a mix of focus and determination. "Let's give them a show, Tyrogue!" Damian called, his tone brimming with confidence.

"Begin!" Lillian started the finals with a flourished bow.

Neptune reared back, summoning fresh storm clouds that thickened above the stage. A renewed downpour cascaded, each droplet refracting the arena lights into a symphony of sparkling colors. The rain wove a magical backdrop, amplifying Neptune's serene yet commanding presence. The audience leaned forward, their gasps blending into murmurs of awe.

Damian narrowed his eyes, refusing to let Neptune dominate. "Tyrogue, break through with Fake Out!"

Tyrogue darted forward in a blur of motion, his agility cutting through the rain like a knife. He clapped his hands with a resounding CRACK, the shockwave rippling through the stage. Neptune flinched, his rhythm briefly interrupted as the rain shimmered from the impact. The audience responded with a collective "ooh," appreciating the bold counter.

But Ashley wasn't about to let Damian steal the show. "Neptune, Double Team—let's dazzle them!"

Neptune shimmered as multiple illusions of himself appeared, each gliding gracefully through the rain. The Lapras clones danced in perfect harmony, their reflections rippling in the puddles like living artwork. The crowd erupted in applause, enchanted by the otherworldly display.

Damian crossed his arms, lips curling into a determined smirk. "Tyrogue, Bulk Up!"

Tyrogue's body pulsed with raw energy as he flexed, his muscles swelling visibly. The rain glistened on his frame, emphasizing his display of strength. The audience clapped politely, though the visual impact couldn't match Neptune's ethereal illusions.

Ashley seized the moment. "Neptune, let's create something unforgettable. Ice Shard, then Ice Beam—show them your artistry!"

Neptune opened his mouth, releasing crystalline shards of ice that spiraled into the air. As they ascended, he followed up with a precise Ice Beam that collided with the shards. The explosion of frost and light created a cascading snowfall that swirled beautifully through the rain, transforming the stage into a winter wonderland. Gasps and cheers echoed through the hall as the shimmering ice reflected the arena lights.

"That's how it's done," Ashley muttered under her breath, her confidence growing.

Damian wasn't about to let the spectacle go unanswered. "Tyrogue, High Jump Kick!"

Tyrogue leapt high into the air, spinning gracefully before aiming a powerful kick toward one of Neptune's illusions. His movements were sharp and precise, slicing through the rain in an impressive display of athleticism. But the slick, rain-soaked stage proved challenging—his landing faltered slightly, and his kick only grazed one of Neptune's decoys. The real Lapras remained untouched, eliciting murmurs of admiration for Ashley's clever strategy.

"Substitute, Neptune!" Ashley called, her voice ringing with excitement.

In a flash, Neptune created a decoy that shimmered faintly in the rain. Tyrogue lunged, landing a punch that caused the substitute to burst into a cloud of mist. The ethereal fog blended seamlessly with the rain, adding an air of mystique that left the crowd entranced.

Damian gritted his teeth. "Don't let them outshine us, Tyrogue! Keep the pressure on!"

But Ashley was already planning her finale. "Neptune, Sing!"

Neptune tilted his head back, releasing a hauntingly beautiful melody that rose above the rain's rhythm. The sound was hypnotic, weaving through the air like a spell. The audience fell silent, captivated by the serene lullaby. Even the raindrops seemed to slow in response to the enchanting notes.

Tyrogue staggered, his movements growing sluggish as the melody seeped into his mind. Damian's fists tightened. "Stay awake, Tyrogue! You can do it!"

But it was too late. Tyrogue's eyelids drooped, and his stance faltered, leaving him vulnerable.

Ashley saw her chance. "Now, Giga Drain!"

Neptune's fins glowed with a vibrant green aura as tendrils of energy extended toward Tyrogue. The move was executed with elegance, the swirling tendrils of light merging with the rain to create a mesmerizing display. The audience erupted into applause as Neptune absorbed Tyrogue's strength, his vitality visibly restored.

Tyrogue dropped to one knee, unable to recover. The referee glanced at the scoreboard as the final buzzer sounded, signaling the end of the match. Lillian's voice rang out over the cheers. "The scores are in! With a stunning performance that blended elegance, strategy, and power, the winner is Ashley and Neptune!"

Ashley gasped, her hands flying to her mouth before she broke into a triumphant grin. She ran to Neptune, wrapping her arms around his damp neck. "We did it, Neptune! You were amazing!"

Neptune let out a melodic cry, nuzzling Ashley as the crowd's cheers thundered around them. Their cheers became even louder when Ashley released Proserpina to join in their little team celebration.

Damian returned Tyrogue to his Poké Ball, a crooked smile on his face as he walked over. "Okay, I'll admit it—you earned this one. That Lapras of yours is something else."

Ashley straightened, smirking. "Told you we'd take you down."

Damian chuckled, offering a handshake. "Fair enough. But next time? It will be my win."

Ashley took his hand, her grin widening. "Keep dreaming."

As Lillian Meridian approached with the Contest Ribbon, the spotlight followed her, making the gold and purple design glimmer. The heart motif seemed to catch the light just right, casting tiny reflections that danced across the stage. Ashley's breath hitched as Lillian stopped in front of her, the ribbon in her outstretched hands.

"Congratulations, Ashley," Lillian said, her voice warm and carrying effortlessly over the applause of the crowd. "Your performance today was nothing short of breathtaking."

Ashley's hands trembled as she accepted the ribbon. The fabric was softer than she expected, and the simple design of a heart felt impossibly perfect in her fingers. She turned to the crowd, lifting the ribbon high above her head with a radiant smile. The cheers swelled to a roar, and Ashley felt the warmth of their admiration wash over her like sunlight breaking through clouds.

Beside her, Neptune let out a melodic cry, his fins shimmering in the stage lights as droplets of rain slid down his sleek shell. Proserpina waddled forward, her petals swaying with newfound confidence. The Gloom puffed out her chest proudly, her earlier hesitance replaced with a glow of self-assurance. Ashley crouched down and hugged both Pokémon tightly, the ribbon dangling from her hand as her emotions bubbled over.

"We did it," she whispered, her voice catching. "You both were incredible. Absolutely incredible."

Neptune nuzzled her cheek, his gentle hum vibrating softly against her. Proserpina let out a happy chirp, nudging her head into Ashley's shoulder. The audience's cheers seemed to grow louder at the touching moment, and Ashley blinked quickly to hold back tears.

Ashley stood again, glancing out at the crowd, who were still clapping and shouting their congratulations. She caught glimpses of familiar faces: Damian stood backstage, clapping with a crooked grin, and a few trainers from earlier rounds waved enthusiastically.

Lillian, ever the professional, stepped closer and gestured toward the ribbon. "Ashley, care to share a few words with your audience?"

Ashley froze for half a second, her eyes wide, before she nodded and stepped toward the microphone. Her heart pounded as she adjusted her hat, glancing back at Neptune and Proserpina for reassurance. The two Pokémon gave her encouraging nods—or in Neptune's case, a low, melodic hum—and Ashley took a steadying breath.

"Wow," she started, her voice shaky but filled with gratitude. "This... this means so much to me. When I signed up for this contest, I wasn't sure how far I'd make it, but seeing Neptune and Proserpina shine out there—it reminded me why I started this journey in the first place."

The crowd quieted slightly, hanging on to her words.

"I've learned so much from my Pokémon," she continued, her confidence growing. "About perseverance, about trust, and, well... about letting them be themselves. Proserpina here wasn't exactly feeling her best a little while ago, but she got up there and reminded all of us of what it means to bloom, even when it's tough."

The audience erupted into cheers, and Proserpina's petals fluttered with pride. Neptune let out another melodious cry, and Ashley laughed, the sound bright and free.

"Thank you to everyone who cheered us on today," she finished, holding the ribbon high once more. "And to my team—you're the real stars."