The Pokémon Center was quiet, the usual hum of late-night activity reduced to a few sleepy trainers lounging in the waiting area, their Pokémon snoozing by their sides. Nurse Joy stood at the front desk, her Chansey bustling beside her as they went through the usual evening paperwork. The soothing sound of the sliding doors opening drew her attention, and she instinctively looked up with her practiced welcoming smile.
"Welcome to the—" The greeting stalled briefly in her throat as her eyes settled on the young woman stepping through the doors.
The girl was striking, not for any flamboyance but for the quiet determination etched into her features. Long, dark hair fell loose over her shoulders, the soft sway of it matching her measured steps. She wore a simple yet coordinated outfit: a pink skirt, a white shirt under a black vest, and a white-and-pink hat perched atop her head. At her feet walked two Eevee—one with fur so impeccably groomed it seemed to sparkle under the center's fluorescent lights, and the other with an eager, curious bounce to his step, his wide eyes darting around to take in everything.
Nurse Joy's heart clenched slightly as realization hit. This was Ashley Ketchum. Her cousins from various Pokémon Centers had spoken of her with fondness, recounting tales of a polite, dedicated trainer who always took exceptional care of her Pokémon. Ashley's reputation had grown quickly—an up-and-coming rookie trainer who had earned the respect of gym leaders and contest coordinators alike. But behind the admiration, there was also sympathy. Everyone had heard about what happened to her and her Eevee, Venus, in Saffron City. The details were murky, but what was clear was that it had been harrowing.
Pushing these thoughts aside, Nurse Joy composed herself and brightened her smile. She was a professional, and her job was to provide comfort and support. "Good evening! Welcome to the Vermilion Pokémon Center," she said warmly.
Ashley approached the desk, her expression tired but polite. Her brown eyes still held a flicker of warmth, though they seemed weighed down by fatigue. She reached into her bag and pulled out her trainer ID, placing it on the counter. "Hi, I'd like to book a room for the night and sign up for tomorrow's contest at the Vermilion Contest Hall," she said, her voice calm but soft, as if she were conserving energy.
"Of course, Miss Ketchum," Nurse Joy replied, accepting the ID and typing swiftly into the system. "We have plenty of rooms available, and I can get you registered for the contest right now."
As she worked, Ashley crouched down beside her Eevee. Venus, ever the dignified diva, sat primly by her side, while Mercury pawed lightly at Ashley's knee, his tail wagging. "It's just for one night," Ashley murmured to them, giving Mercury a reassuring scratch behind the ears. "Tomorrow, we'll be ready to shine."
Nurse Joy handed back the ID, her gaze softening. "All set, Miss Ketchum. Your room is on the second floor, and here's your keycard. Would you like to leave your Pokémon with us for a check-up tonight? We'll make sure they're in perfect condition for the contest tomorrow."
Ashley hesitated briefly, glancing at the Poké Balls clipped to her belt. "Yeah, that would be great," she said after a moment. She unclipped the balls one by one, pausing as her fingers brushed over each one. "They've all been working so hard. A little extra care couldn't hurt."
She handed the Poké Balls to Nurse Joy, who accepted them with a gentle nod. Chansey waddled over, holding a tray to carefully collect the capsules. "We'll take great care of them," Nurse Joy assured her. "They'll be ready for you first thing in the morning."
"Thanks, Nurse Joy. I really appreciate it." Ashley offered a small smile, her shoulders relaxing slightly. She recalled her Eevees and gave Nurse Joy those Poké Balls as well. "Goodnight," Ashley said quietly before heading toward the stairs, her steps steady but unhurried.
Nurse Joy watched her go, her heart tugging once more. This girl carried herself with such quiet resilience, even after all she'd been through. As the doors to the second floor closed behind Ashley, Nurse Joy turned back to her duties, already planning to give her Pokémon a little extra TLC tonight. Trainers like Ashley deserved it.
Nurse Joy and Chansey guided Ashley's Pokémon to the back rooms. As the team emerged one by one from their Poké Balls, Nurse Joy's professional demeanor gave way to quiet amazement. The Charmeleon, stretched his arms with a dignified air, his tail flame flickering steadily as he surveyed the room with a protective glance toward the rest of the team. The Growlithe, was all energy, immediately trotting over to Chansey and sniffing curiously at her basket of berries. His fluffy orange coat gleamed with health, the product of attentive care.
Next came the Lapras, who materialized with a soft, melodic hum. The water Pokémon's calm presence filled the space, and his shell shimmered faintly under the bright lights. Joy took a moment to appreciate how Neptune's eyes seemed to follow the activity with quiet intelligence.
The Gloom, waddled out and yawned dramatically, her petals twitching as she looked for a comfortable corner to settle in. There was a serene confidence in her movements, as though she carried the wisdom of countless battles.
When the Dratini, materialized, he immediately coiled himself into a neat little spiral on one of the examination beds, his smooth blue scales catching the light like rippling water. He lifted his head lazily, blinking at Nurse Joy as though sizing her up before settling down again.
The Alolan Vulpix, appeared next in a swirl of icy mist, her snow-white fur making her seem almost otherworldly. She shook herself delicately, sending a few sparkles of frost into the air, and padded over to sit primly beside Neptune.
Then came the Eevees. The female one emerged with an unmistakable air of royalty, her fur perfectly groomed and her steps light yet deliberate as she leaped onto an empty counter to oversee the proceedings. She gave Nurse Joy a sharp look, as if to say, Don't mess this up, before curling her tail neatly around her paws. The male one, in contrast, popped out with boundless energy, his head swiveling in every direction as he took in his new surroundings. He trotted after Vulcan, mimicking his older teammate's curious inspection of Chansey's supplies.
Nurse Joy mentally counted the Pokémon as they settled in, her smile faltering briefly. Eight Pokémon? That wasn't typical for a rookie trainer. Her gaze shifted to the screen displaying Ashley's trainer ID, and her eyes widened as she noticed the note attached to the file: "Trainer authorized to carry more than six Pokémon—League exception granted." Nurse Joy raised an eyebrow. That kind of exception wasn't just handed out. Whoever Ashley Ketchum was, she'd clearly caught the attention of some important people in the League.
Turning back to the team, Joy's smile returned as she reviewed their profiles. The names Ashley had chosen stood out immediately. Mars, Vulcan, Neptune, Proserpina, Apollo, Chione, Venus, and Mercury. Each one carefully selected, rich with meaning. It wasn't just a list of names; it was a reflection of the bond she had with her Pokémon.
Chansey began the routine check-ups, starting with Mercury and Chione. The male Eevee flinched slightly at the stethoscope's touch but quickly relaxed when Chansey offered him a gentle pat on the head. Chione, ever composed, sat perfectly still, her icy breath misting faintly in the air as Chansey inspected her.
Next, they moved to Mars and Vulcan. Mars huffed, his fiery tail curling around his feet as if to say, I don't need a check-up, I'm fine. Vulcan, on the other hand, wagged his tail enthusiastically, clearly enjoying the attention as Chansey checked his teeth and paws.
Neptune was as cooperative as ever, his calm demeanor making the process easy. Proserpina grumbled softly, but a few reassuring words from Nurse Joy kept her in place. Apollo stretched lazily, his movements so slow and relaxed that Chansey chuckled as she tried to check his vitals.
Finally, they reached Venus. Nurse Joy's heart softened as she saw the Eevee's elegant pose and bright, intelligent eyes. Despite everything Venus had been through, she radiated strength and resilience. Nurse Joy gently ran her hand over Venus's coat, noting how soft it had become after Ashley's meticulous care. She smiled. "You're back to your old self, aren't you?" she murmured.
Venus responded with a regal flick of her tail, but there was a hint of warmth in her gaze as she glanced at Mercury and Chione, who were busy chasing each other in circles.
By the end of the check-up, Nurse Joy was thoroughly impressed. Every member of Ashley's team was in exemplary form—not just physically, but emotionally as well. It was clear that Ashley was a trainer who cared deeply for her Pokémon, nurturing their individual strengths and personalities.
As Nurse Joy finished updating the files, she glanced at Chansey, who gave an approving nod. "They're all in top condition," Joy said softly, glancing back at the team. "Ashley Ketchum… no wonder you've been the talk of my cousins."
After leaving the back rooms for Ashley's team to rest, Nurse Joy and Chansey were relieved by another set of nurses and Pokémon. After leaving the bustling Pokémon Center behind, Nurse Joy and Chansey stepped into the cool Vermilion evening. The air was calm, filled with the faint hum of distant waves from the harbor. The duo strolled down the cobblestone path to their nearby home, a quaint little house tucked just around the corner from the Pokémon Center. It was a cozy retreat, painted a soft pink with white shutters and flower boxes brimming with blooming berries.
As soon as they entered, Joy let out a small sigh of relief, setting her bag down by the door. "Well, Chansey, that was quite a day," she said, her voice light but tired. Chansey chirped in agreement, patting her trainer's arm affectionately before waddling off to help unpack their supplies.
Joy stretched her arms high above her head, the day's tension melting away. "I'm heading for a shower," she announced, already halfway up the stairs. "Keep an eye on the stew, okay?"
Chansey saluted cheerfully before bustling into the kitchen, her stubby arms expertly tending to the bubbling pot on the stove. The aroma of herbs and fresh vegetables filled the house, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Upstairs, Nurse Joy let the hot water wash over her, her thoughts drifting to Ashley and her remarkable team. She couldn't help but smile as she replayed the moment Chione, the Alolan Vulpix, had materialized in a swirl of icy mist. An Alolan Vulpix, she thought, rinsing soap from her hair. Those are practically unheard of outside of Alola. Who could have given it to her?
Wrapping herself in a soft towel, Joy padded back downstairs just as Chansey was setting the table. The stew was perfectly ladled into two bowls, steam curling from the surface. Joy sat down with a grateful hum, letting the warmth of the meal and the comfort of home ease her.
As she sipped her stew, she couldn't stop herself from speculating out loud. "You know, Chansey, I wonder where Ashley got permission to carry more than six Pokémon. That's not exactly standard for a rookie trainer. Someone high up must have vouched for her."
Chansey tilted her head thoughtfully, then gave a knowing wink as if to say, Whoever it was, they must have seen something special in her.
Joy chuckled. "No kidding. And they were right. That team of hers is incredible. Did you see how well-groomed they all were? And their moves! That Alolan Vulpix knows Aurora Veil, for goodness' sake. Not to mention Venus, the female Eevee—she has such a presence."
Chansey nodded enthusiastically, her stubby arms mimicking Venus's regal stance as Joy laughed. "It's no wonder all the Joys talk about her. I mean, she's polite, her Pokémon are well-behaved, and she clearly cares for them deeply. I can't wait to see her contest performance tomorrow."
At the mention of the contest, Joy's eyes lit up. "Oh, it's going to be exciting! I love that we Joys get to judge these events. Seeing the bonds between trainers and their Pokémon is always so inspiring. And Ashley—well, I have a feeling she'll be one to watch."
Chansey clapped her hands, chirping in agreement as she pushed a small bowl of berries toward Joy. The two finished their meal, their conversation peppered with anticipation for the next day's event.
After cleaning up, they prepared for bed. Joy double-checked her notes for the contest before slipping under her pink and white comforter. Chansey snuggled into her own bed, a miniature version in the corner of the room. The soft glow of a moonlit night filled the space as Joy closed her eyes.
"Goodnight, Chansey," she murmured.
"Chan-sey," came the drowsy reply.
As sleep overtook them, their thoughts lingered on the promise of tomorrow. Joy couldn't shake the feeling that the upcoming contest would be something special, and she couldn't wait to see what Ashley Ketchum and her extraordinary team had in store.
The morning sunlight streamed through the curtains of Nurse Joy's cozy home, casting a soft glow across the room. Joy stretched in her bed, a peaceful smile on her face as she turned to see Chansey already bustling about. The cheerful Pokémon was carefully preparing Joy's contest uniform, a tailored outfit of pale pink and white, complete with an embroidered emblem of the Pokémon League. Joy chuckled, sitting up and running a hand through her hair.
"Thanks, Chansey. You're always one step ahead of me," she said, her tone warm.
Chansey beamed, chirping a happy reply before pushing a tray toward Joy's bedside—a simple breakfast of tea and toast. Joy quickly ate, eager to get ready for the day. She dressed swiftly, fastening the final button on her uniform as Chansey adjusted her nurse cap to sit perfectly.
With a nod of approval, Joy grabbed her bag and said, "Let's go, Chansey. Today's the big day."
The duo stepped outside into the crisp morning air, Vermilion City waking with a slow, deliberate rhythm that Nurse Joy had come to adore. The scent of salt and sea carried on the gentle breeze, mingling with the faint aroma of freshly baked bread from the harbor-side cafés. Wingull circled lazily above, their cries echoing over the docks, where the early risers among the sailors and fishermen were already at work. The gentle creak of ropes and the occasional clang of a ship's bell provided a soothing backdrop to the scene, a melody unique to Vermilion.
Nurse Joy inhaled deeply, savoring the cool air. She loved her city—every corner of it felt alive, from the bustling port with its massive cruise liners to the charming streets lined with vendors selling everything from seashell jewelry to freshly grilled Magikarp skewers. The docks were the heart of Vermilion, a constant hive of activity where people from all over the world arrived and departed, each bringing a piece of their home with them. The city was a mosaic of cultures, its port a gateway that connected Kanto to regions near and far.
Her pace quickened as her eyes caught the first glimmer of the Vermilion Contest Hall's façade. The building stood proudly at the heart of the city, an elegant structure that managed to blend Vermilion's nautical charm with the grandeur befitting a contest venue. Its sweeping arches seemed almost wave-like, curving gracefully against the skyline, while its stained-glass windows depicted various Pokémon in contest poses, their vibrant colors catching the morning sunlight. To Joy, it symbolized the city's spirit—proud, welcoming, and endlessly creative.
She glanced toward the docks as she walked, watching the cargo ships unload their goods with practiced efficiency. A group of sailors joked loudly as they hoisted crates onto the pier, their laughter mingling with the squawk of Pelipper perched on the rigging above. A sense of pride swelled in her chest. Vermilion wasn't just her home—it was a city full of stories, a place where people came together to share their lives, their Pokémon, and their dreams.
"Vermilion never sleeps," she murmured to herself, a smile tugging at her lips. "Even at its quietest, it's always moving."
Chansey gave a cheerful chirp of agreement, waddling along beside her with an energetic bounce. The Pokémon seemed equally enthralled by the morning bustle, her gaze darting toward the fishermen hauling in their nets and the children skipping stones along the water's edge.
As much as Joy adored her city, she couldn't help but think about its most vexing resident: Lieutenant Surge, the local Gym Leader. His larger-than-life personality and boisterous ways had a way of getting under her skin. He was brash, loud, and had a knack for turning simple conversations into full-blown debates about strategy or battle techniques. And yet, she had to admit, he was as much a part of Vermilion's charm as the docks and the Contest Hall.
"Probably yelling at one of his trainers to 'shock 'em good,'" Joy muttered with a shake of her head. Chansey giggled, clearly amused by her trainer's exasperation.
Despite his antics, Joy knew Surge cared deeply about Vermilion and its people. He was always the first to volunteer when the port needed help or when trainers sought guidance in battles. As frustrating as he could be, Vermilion wouldn't be the same without him.
Turning a corner, Joy's thoughts refocused as the Contest Hall came into full view. It was more than just a building to her—it was a place of joy, creativity, and connection. The contests brought trainers and spectators together, showcasing not just the strength of Pokémon but their grace, intelligence, and personality. It was a celebration of the bonds between trainers and their partners, a reminder of why she loved her work.
As she approached the hall, its polished façade gleaming in the sunlight, Joy felt a familiar sense of excitement bubbling within her. Today, Vermilion would shine, just as it always did, and she was honored to be a part of it.
Inside, the hall was eerily quiet, the usual buzz of trainers and spectators replaced with a calm stillness. Joy felt a slight chill as she entered, a stark contrast to the warm excitement she knew would soon fill the space. She walked briskly toward the stage, her heels clicking softly against the polished marble floors. Chansey waddled beside her, carrying a clipboard that seemed comically oversized in her stubby arms.
On stage, two familiar figures were already waiting. Mr. Contesta, a distinguished man with a sharp suit and an air of authority, was reviewing a set of notes. Beside him stood Mr. Sukizo, a shorter, jolly man with a round face and a twinkle in his eye. He was adjusting his tie, muttering something about how it "must look impressive for such a remarkable day."
"Good morning, gentlemen!" Joy called as she approached, her voice bright.
"Ah, Nurse Joy!" Mr. Contesta greeted, straightening and offering a polite bow. "Punctual as ever. It's always a pleasure having you on the judging panel."
Mr. Sukizo nodded enthusiastically. "Truly remarkable!" he declared, his trademark phrase bringing a small laugh to Joy's lips.
She joined them on stage, glancing around at the empty hall. Rows of seats stretched out before them, the faint glow of the stage lights illuminating the polished floors and intricate carvings along the walls. Behind the stage, a massive screen hung, ready to display the action for the audience. The atmosphere felt anticipatory, like the calm before a storm.
"We've got about an hour until the trainers and spectators start arriving," Mr. Contesta informed her, his tone all business. "I trust you've reviewed the list of contestants?"
"I have," Joy replied, her smile softening. "There are some promising trainers today, but there's one in particular I'm looking forward to seeing."
"Let me guess," Mr. Sukizo chimed in, a knowing grin on his face. "Ashley Ketchum?"
Joy couldn't help but laugh. "Guilty as charged. She's already made quite the impression on my family. If she's anything like what they've said, today's contest will be unforgettable."
Mr. Contesta adjusted his glasses, his expression thoughtful. "I've heard whispers of her progress as well. It will be interesting to see how she fares under the pressure of a live audience."
As the three judges discussed the upcoming competition, Chansey took the opportunity to inspect the stage, ensuring every detail was perfect. She adjusted the positioning of the podiums, fluffed the decorative banners, and even polished the bell used to signal the start of each round. Joy watched her partner fondly, feeling a sense of pride in Chansey's dedication.
The peaceful quiet was soon broken by the distant sound of footsteps and murmurs. The trainers were starting to arrive, their voices echoing faintly in the grand hall. Joy straightened her posture, her expression shifting to one of professionalism.
"It's time," Mr. Contesta said, his voice carrying a hint of excitement.
The three judges moved to their designated seats behind the judging table, their chairs elevated slightly to give them a clear view of the stage. The empty hall began to fill with life as trainers and their Pokémon entered, chatting animatedly and glancing around at the competition. The energy in the room shifted, anticipation building as the contest drew nearer.
Joy exchanged a glance with Chansey, who gave her an encouraging nod before scurrying off to assist with last-minute preparations. Joy took a deep breath, letting the excitement of the moment wash over her. Today wasn't just another contest—it was a chance to witness the bonds between trainers and their Pokémon, to celebrate their growth and creativity.
As the first notes of the opening music played and the lights dimmed, Joy smiled to herself. This was going to be a day to remember.
Nurse Joy settled into her seat at the judge's panel, smoothing the hem of her pristine white apron. Her Chansey was positioned just behind her, clutching its egg as if it were part of the team. The Contest Hall had transformed from the peaceful, empty space of the morning into a vibrant, buzzing arena. Rows of spectators filled the seats, their excited chatter echoing through the high-ceilinged hall. Bright spotlights illuminated the stage, where Lillian, the ever-energetic presenter, was already commanding everyone's attention.
"Ladies and gentlemen!" Lillian's voice boomed through the microphone, amplified and carried throughout the hall. "Welcome to the Vermilion City Pokémon Contest! Are you ready to see some amazing Pokémon displays of skill, creativity, and flair?"
The crowd erupted in cheers, clapping and hollering as Lillian grinned and gestured toward the stage with a sweeping motion. Joy couldn't help but smile. Lillian had a knack for setting the tone, her charisma shining as brightly as the sequins on her electric-blue dress.
"She really knows how to fire up a crowd," Joy remarked softly, leaning toward Mr. Contesta.
"She's a natural," he agreed with a nod, his distinguished demeanor unshaken despite the thunderous applause. "A true professional in every sense."
Mr. Sukizo, seated to Joy's left, chimed in with his signature phrase: "Remarkable!"
Joy exchanged a knowing look with Contesta, stifling a laugh. Sukizo's enthusiasm was contagious, even if his commentary was... limited.
As the crowd settled down, Lillian continued. "Today, our trainers will compete to dazzle you with their Pokémon's abilities and creativity. They'll show us what makes their bonds unique! Let's hear it one more time for all our amazing participants!"
The crowd's applause returned, accompanied by scattered whistles and cheers. Joy adjusted her notes, glancing at the clipboard in front of her. The first trainer's name was announced, and the contest officially began.
One by one, trainers took the stage, their Pokémon leaping out of their Poké Balls in dazzling displays of light and color. A young boy stepped forward with a Butterfree that used Stun Spore to form a shimmering golden mist around itself, following it up with a whirlwind that scattered the sparkling spores across the stage. Joy nodded appreciatively as she scribbled notes on her clipboard.
"Great use of the environment," she whispered to Mr. Contesta. "But it could have used a little more control. The spores dispersed too widely."
"I agree," Contesta replied in a hushed tone. "A commendable effort, though."
"Remarkable!" Sukizo added, as Joy smiled indulgently.
Another trainer followed, this time with a graceful Dewgong that slid across the stage on a sheet of its own ice, its Aqua Jet creating a cascading water display behind it. Joy's pen moved quickly, jotting down comments about the fluidity and creativity of the appeal.
"That Aqua Jet was a nice touch," she murmured. "But it could have been timed better. The movement felt slightly rushed."
As the appeals continued, the judges whispered among themselves between rounds, sharing observations and debating scores. A Pachirisu zipped across the stage, scattering sparks of electricity in a precise, rhythmic pattern that resembled a light show. A Roselia twirled gracefully, scattering petals with Magical Leaf in an intricate design that looked like blooming flowers.
Joy's clipboard quickly filled with notes. Each Pokémon brought something unique, whether it was power, elegance, or sheer creativity. Some trainers relied on flashy moves, while others focused on storytelling and thematic consistency.
"Each one brings their own flavor," Joy whispered to Contesta, who nodded in agreement.
"The variety is what makes these contests so special," he replied, his tone reflective. "No two appeals are ever the same."
Lillian, meanwhile, kept the audience engaged between performances, her commentary lively and humorous. "That Pachirisu just lit up the stage—literally! Somebody call the electrician!" she quipped, earning laughter from the crowd.
As the appeals continued, Joy found herself drawn to the energy and passion of the trainers. Though some appeals were more polished than others, every performance reflected the bond between trainer and Pokémon.
"Remarkable," Sukizo said again after a particularly well-executed appeal by a Ninetales that used Will-O-Wisp to create a floating ring of fire.
"Yes, that was remarkable," Joy agreed, her voice soft but sincere. "The control over those flames was impressive."
The contest moved at a steady pace, with each new performance bringing fresh excitement. Joy glanced toward the stage, her smile never fading. This was why she loved contests—the creativity, the connection, and the sheer joy that filled the air. Today's participants had already set a high bar, and she couldn't wait to see what the rest of the day would bring.
The sudden explosion of smoke on stage silenced the bustling contest hall in an instant. Gasps rippled through the audience, their eyes wide as the haze cleared to reveal Ashley, striking an impressive pose in a sleek purple ninja outfit. Gone was her usual fuchsia kimono; instead, she was clad in flowing, lightweight fabric that shimmered subtly under the contest lights, her every movement whisper-quiet and deliberate. Around her neck, like a living scarf, Apollo coiled snugly, his radiant blue scales catching the light.
The crowd collectively leaned forward, murmurs of awe breaking out at the sight of a Dratini. Joy couldn't help but smile as she caught snippets of astonished whispers: "A real Dratini? I've never seen one in person!" and "Isn't it supposed to be one of the rarest Pokémon? They call it the Mirage Pokémon!"
Joy's jaw dropped slightly, her usually composed demeanor faltering. The stage entrance was several feet away, yet Ashley had appeared in the very center as if by magic. There's no way… she thought, her mind racing. But she shook her head, a knowing smile creeping onto her face. "It's all a ninja trick," she murmured to herself. Ashley really knows how to work the crowd.
Lillian, ever the professional, recovered first. "Well, folks, it looks like we've just been transported to a ninja battlefield! Let's see what Ashley and her Dratini, Apollo, have in store for us!" Her voice carried excitement, setting the stage for the dramatic performance.
Ashley wasted no time. With a swift motion, she pulled out a handful of silver shurikens from a pouch at her side. The metallic edges gleamed menacingly as she flung them forward in rapid succession. Apollo reacted immediately, leaping gracefully from her neck and twisting mid-air to intercept the projectiles with his glowing Iron Tail. The clash of steel against steel rang through the hall, sharp and rhythmic, as the audience gasped and clapped at the display of precision and trust.
"Amazing!" Joy whispered, leaning slightly forward. She watched as Ashley darted to the side, her kunai flashing in her hand. With a flick of her wrist, she deflected the shurikens that Apollo parried back toward her. The two moved in perfect harmony, their exchanges so seamless it was hard to believe this was a match between a human and a Pokémon.
Apollo's movements were quick and elegant, his serpentine body weaving through the air as he executed precise, whip-like strikes with his tail. Ashley mirrored his energy, leaping and spinning, her kunai catching the shurikens with deft, almost effortless movements. It was a dance of strategy and synchronicity, the shurikens spinning between them like they were locked in a real ninja battle.
The crowd was entranced, their cheers growing louder with every exchange. Then, as if on cue, Apollo coiled tightly and unleashed a powerful Twister. The gale howled as the shurikens were caught in the swirling winds, spinning like a metallic storm within the draconic vortex. The audience gasped as the shimmering hurricane dominated the stage, the lights reflecting off the whirling projectiles to create a mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic effect.
Ashley wasn't done yet. She leaped backward, landing in a crouch as she called out, "Now, Apollo—Fire Blast!"
Apollo's small mouth opened wide, and from deep within, a blazing inferno erupted. The iconic kanji-shaped flames roared into the Twister, the fire merging with the wind in a dazzling display of raw power and artistry. The shurikens, still spinning within the Twister, became streaks of molten light, raining down in fiery arcs as the hurricane dispersed. Sparks danced across the stage, reflecting brilliantly off the polished floor. It was a spectacle of fire and wind, danger and beauty, perfectly balanced.
The audience erupted into applause, their cheers deafening as the final embers faded. Joy clapped enthusiastically, her face alight with wonder.
"Now that was remarkable," Mr. Sukizo said, his expression unusually animated.
Mr. Contesta nodded approvingly, scribbling on his clipboard. "A flawless blend of precision, power, and presentation. She's set a new standard for creativity."
Lillian, her voice brimming with excitement, took over as the cheers continued. "Give it up for Ashley and Apollo! I don't know about you, but that was one of the most dynamic and thrilling appeals we've seen today! A ninja and her Mirage Pokémon—what a duo!"
Ashley stood at center stage, slightly out of breath but grinning from ear to ear. Apollo slithered back to her, his body curling protectively around her arm. She gave him an affectionate rub under the chin, earning a soft coo in return. The two bowed in unison, the crowd roaring their approval.
But just as the applause reached its peak, Ashley reached into her pouch and threw down yet another smoke bomb. The explosion of smoke enveloped the stage, and when it cleared moments later, she and Apollo were gone.
The audience erupted into even louder cheers, amazed by the sudden disappearance. Lillian, barely containing her laughter, gestured toward the empty stage. "Ladies and gentlemen, let's hear it one more time for the incredible Ashley and her Mirage Pokémon, Apollo!"
Joy clapped along with the crowd, shaking her head in amused disbelief. "She really outdid herself this time," she muttered, her admiration growing even stronger.
"That was... exceptional," Mr. Contesta said, his usual stoic demeanor softened by a smile. He leaned forward, glancing at his notes. "Her use of theatrics didn't just captivate the crowd—it enhanced Apollo's elegance and skill. The precision of their synchronization was remarkable."
Mr. Sukizo nodded, his characteristic phrase slipping out almost reflexively. "Remarkable!" he agreed, his eyes shining as he flipped through his scoring sheet. "The way they combined Twister and Fire Blast to create that flaming cyclone... It was both beautiful and powerful. A true testament to their bond."
Joy tapped her pen against her clipboard thoughtfully, her lips curling into a proud smile. "You can tell she put a lot of work into that performance. It wasn't just about showing off Apollo's strength; it was about telling a story. The ninja theme, the dynamic interactions, the flawless transitions between her actions and Apollo's—it all worked together seamlessly."
"And let's not forget," she added, leaning in slightly, "how rare it is to see a Dratini. That alone had the audience hooked before she even started."
The other judges nodded in agreement, jotting down their final scores. Each of them knew the importance of not just talent, but the connection between trainer and Pokémon. Ashley and Apollo exemplified that bond, and it showed in every part of their appeal.
As the appeal round continued, trainer after trainer took the stage, showcasing their own unique Pokémon and skills. A Venomoth performed a dazzling Confusion-Psybeam combo that turned the stage into a kaleidoscope of light, while a Shuppet created a mesmerizing Will-o-Wisp display that danced like ethereal flames. But while many of the appeals were impressive, none seemed to match the creativity and emotional impact of Ashley and Apollo's performance.
When the final appeal concluded and the scoreboard lit up, murmurs of anticipation filled the contest hall. Joy glanced up at the screen, her heart skipping with excitement as the names began to appear.
There it was—Ashley and Apollo sat proudly at the top of the scoreboard, their performance earning the highest points of the round. Joy couldn't help but smile, clapping softly as the room buzzed with whispers of admiration for the young trainer.
"She's really setting the bar high," Joy remarked to her fellow judges. "The battle round will be interesting. Apollo is graceful, but we've yet to see how they handle a high-stakes fight."
Mr. Contesta chuckled. "If her strategy is anything like her appeal, I think we're in for a treat."
Backstage, Ashley leaned against a wall, Apollo perched comfortably on her shoulder, his sleek body coiled like an elegant ribbon. She glanced up at the scoreboard and couldn't help but grin. "Top of the board, buddy," she said, nudging Apollo gently with her finger. "We nailed it."
Apollo let out a soft trill, nuzzling her cheek in response.
Around her, other trainers whispered among themselves, some stealing glances in her direction. A few looked impressed, others a bit nervous. One trainer with a smug-looking Jolteon walked past, giving Ashley a respectful nod. "Nice work out there," he said, his tone casual but sincere.
Ashley returned the nod with a friendly grin. "Thanks. Good luck in the battle round."
She turned her attention back to Apollo, her fingers brushing over the scales of his tail. "Alright, buddy. The appeal round's done, but the real challenge is up next. Ready to show them what we've got?"
Apollo's eyes gleamed with determination, his body tightening in anticipation. Ashley straightened up, adjusting her hat as her grin widened. "Let's do this."
The announcement for the battle round echoed through the backstage area, and the trainers began gathering their thoughts and Pokémon. As Ashley stepped toward the doors leading to the battlefield, she glanced down at Apollo. "No pressure or anything," she teased, "but we've got to live up to that score, okay?"
Apollo gave her a playful flick of his tail, and together, they stepped out into the arena, ready to take on whatever came next.
The energy in the Vermilion Contest Hall was electric as the battle rounds began. Joy sat poised in her seat, her professional demeanor masking her growing excitement. She had no doubt that Ashley and Apollo would shine in this phase. The appeal round had already showcased their bond and creativity, and Joy was confident they would carry that same energy into the battles.
From the moment Ashley stepped onto the stage, there was a quiet confidence in her stride. Apollo, coiled beside her, moved with an effortless grace that reflected the trust between trainer and Pokémon. The crowd leaned forward with anticipation, eager to see how this rare Dratini would fare in combat.
Joy watched closely, impressed by how Ashley and Apollo navigated each match. Their strategies were as clever as they were seamless, blending precision and adaptability with a dash of flair. It wasn't just about winning—it was about captivating the audience, something Ashley seemed to understand instinctively.
"She's a natural," Joy murmured to Mr. Contesta as Ashley advanced through the rounds.
"Indeed," he replied, nodding approvingly. "There's a finesse in her approach that's rare for someone so early in their journey."
Apollo and Ashley climbed the ranks steadily, their victories met with increasing cheers from the audience. Joy could see the way Ashley's confidence grew with each round, her commands becoming sharper and her timing impeccable. Apollo matched her energy, his movements fluid and precise, as if he anticipated her thoughts before she even spoke them.
When the final match concluded, Ashley stood center stage, her chest rising and falling with exhilaration. The applause was deafening as Lillian stepped forward, microphone in hand, to announce the results.
"And the winner of the Vermilion Contest is… Ashley Ketchum!"
The crowd erupted, their cheers echoing through the hall as Ashley accepted the yellow ribbon adorned with its lightning crown emblem. Joy clapped along with the audience, her smile as wide as it had been during the appeal round.
"She earned every bit of that victory," Mr. Sukizo said, his tone full of admiration.
"Remarkable," Joy replied, echoing his signature word with a playful grin.
From the judges' box, Joy watched as Ashley held the ribbon high for all to see. Apollo slithered around her shoulders, his scales catching the light as he nuzzled her cheek. It was a picture-perfect moment, one that spoke volumes about the bond between trainer and Pokémon.
Joy leaned back in her chair, her heart full as she joined the standing ovation. She couldn't wait to see what the future held for Ashley. If this contest was any indication, it was going to be something extraordinary.