The Paldea Saga: Treasures and Trials

by Pocketbook

Tired of the burden of fame, Ash Ketchum, Monarch of the World, decides to disappear into a whole new adventure in the far-away land of Paldea. Eager to participate in the region's famous "Treasure Hunt," Ash must first attend Scarlet Academy and its rigorous Battle School, where he'll meet trials a plenty alongside new friends and rivals...and old flames. SatoSere.

8. Chapter 8: Blitz

Heyo, everyone. Thank you again for all of you who have commented/reviewed/favorited/followed this story on and AO3. Your encouragement and feedback is always appreciated.

Alright, so onto the next chapter. Took a couple risks here, but now that the groundwork has been laid, you'll see the narrative start to enter the heads of the characters a bit more—the vernacular changing depending on who's thinking. Ash in particular will start to undergo a change. While I am trying to continue to write him IC (in character) I do want his maturity to really start coming through. We'll also be seeing some more side characters too as we try to push the plot forward.

More notes at the bottom, but for now enjoy! Next chapter will be posted (hopefully) Thursday, January 18th.

Chapter Amended: 2/18/24

- Dialogue has actually been changed between Ash and Serena's interactions. Also, more thoughts have been given to Ash to further flesh out how he feels. There was a conversation about dreams I didn't love, so I changed some things there. Nothing too major, but again, playing around with the dynamic.

- Cultural Detail: the bar scene was changed to be less intimate and more typical of a Paldean bar.

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Chapter 8: Blitz

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After lunch, Ash and Serena made their way to the Academy's Pokémon Center. As they walked, Ash could feel a strange uneasy excitement building in his chest, and he found himself occasionally stumbling over words. He tried laughing off the strange nerves he sensed running along his spine, but the sounds came out as coarse chuckles. What was happening to him?

Maybe he was just a little wired still from all the battling.

Or maybe, he really was just happy to see Serena. She really couldn't have come at a more perfect time, Ash found himself thinking. Even though he had been excited to start this new adventure, he couldn't help but feel a bit restless with everything. As though now he was constantly trying to work to prove himself. But with Serena, he just didn't feel that. She always had a way of…well, Ash wasn't sure how to finish that. All he knew was that he was so happy she was here. And that it was her. But he couldn't explain much more beyond that.

As they continued, every so often Ash's gaze would drift towards the performer, taking in her appearance. He noticed the way the window-filtered sunlight lit up her blue eyes like some kind of…water stone?—and how her smile seemed to light up her entire face, making him feel warm. Each time he found himself admiring these details, a pang of guilt would wash over him, causing him to abruptly avert his eyes. It was as if he was torn between wanting to appreciate her beauty and feeling like he shouldn't.

Ash wrestled with this, confused by his own reactions. It had been a while since he'd last seen Serena, and maybe he was just surprised by how much more…mature she looked. Of course, she really didn't look that much different. It was hard to explain. All Ash knew was that something felt different with her and he couldn't quite put his finger on what it was. This internal wrestling match made him more cautious with his words and actions.

Despite his inner turmoil, Ash kept the conversation going, although there was a hesitance in his voice that wasn't typically there. Serena, for her part, seemed unaware of Ash's bumbling. She was too busy trying to tame her own expressions, her own eagerness.

But every now and then, she would catch Ash not meeting her gaze and notice him glancing at her when he thought she couldn't see.

When they entered the Pokémon Center, they were immediately greeted by Nurse Miriam's warm smile and Brock's friendly nod. The atmosphere had quieted with all the students either at lunch or lounging about the campus. The soft murmur of the center's healing machines hummed in the background.

Before Ash could ask about his Pokémon, Pikachu, Charcadet, and Lucario, fully rejuvenated, bounded towards him with expressive excitement. Pikachu leaped into Ash's arms, its cheeks sparking with joy as it nuzzled affectionately against his face. Ash laughed, hugging his best friend. Meanwhile, Charcadet looked on, its blocky arms on its hips, seemingly pleased with himself for his earlier performance.

Lucario, exuding a quieter but no less sincere joy, approached Ash with a dignified stride. He stood before Ash, his aura subtly flaring as he acknowledged his trainer with a respectful nod. Ash placed a hand on Lucario's shoulder, conveying his gratitude and pride.

Then, turning to Serena, Ash beamed with enthusiasm. "Serena, this is Lucario," he introduced, his voice carrying a note of pride. "Lucario, this is Serena. She's a good friend and an amazing performer."

Serena tried not to wince at "good friend" as Lucario turned its gaze towards her, studying the performer with a gentle intensity. The Aura Pokémon then offered a courteous nod, a silent but clear gesture of acknowledgment and respect. Serena smiled warmly at Lucario, extending her hand in greeting. "It's so nice to meet you, Lucario. You were so wonderful today at the exhibition," she said, her voice friendly and impressed.

The moment was a pleasant one, with Serena and Lucario sharing a brief but meaningful exchange. Pikachu, still in Ash's arms, chirped happily, his eyes twinkling as he looked on. Charcadet appeared to be distracted, moving to a nearby machine and nearly setting it ablaze while curiously fiddling with some buttons, much to Miriam's consternation.

After Ash had returned Lucario and Charcadet to their pokeball, he made the arrangements to send the Aura Pokémon back to Professor Oak. Brock then reappeared from a storage closet, carrying a box full of potions and antidotes among other medical essentials.

"So, what are you guys up to this afternoon?" Brock stepped forward, setting the box down on the counter. His eyes held a hint of mischievous curiosity as he turned his attention to Ash and Serena. There was a playful yet suspicious glint in his gaze, his tone casual but colored with an underlying interest.

"Well, I was thinking of showing Serena around the Academy," Ash replied, scratching the back of his head and trying to sound nonchalant. "She's got some dance classes here, and since I just took the tour yesterday, it seemed like a good idea."

Pikachu, perched contently in Ash's arms, let out a soft "Pika Pika," as if joining in on the moment, his bright eyes darting between Ash and Serena.

Serena tried not to shift her weight from one foot to the other under Brock's perceptive stare, a gentle smile on her face. "This campus is enormous, and I don't know my way around yet." She felt Sylveon's feeler wrap around her wrist.

Brock raised an eyebrow and rubbed his face as though trying to solve a crossword with too many hints. He also looked like he was trying not to lose it. "Sounds like a plan," he said, covering his mouth as though holding back a laugh. "Just don't get too lost. Unless that's what you're intending to do," Brock chortled and sent Serena's face ablaze.

Ash didn't get it, but he knew the remark was meant to be teasing and he didn't like it, especially seeing as it made Serena uncomfortable. With a hint of protective urgency, he instinctively grasped the performer's wrist and pulled her out of the Pokémon Center, away from Brock's goaded remarks with a quick good-bye.

The ancient hallways, with their venerable stone walls and tall arches, bore witness to Ash and Serena's now quiet stroll, a stark contrast to the playful antics of Pikachu and Sylveon, who scampered ahead, exploring with childlike enthusiasm. Each turn in the corridor revealed another piece of the Academy's rich history, its walls echoing with the depictions of generations of students and Pokémon. The late afternoon sun streamed through the tall mullioned windows, casting warm distorted beams of light that illuminated their path and highlighted the intricate details of the architecture.

Ash and Serena found themselves caught in a dance of unspoken words and fleeting glances. Conversations started and trailed off, each struggling to find the right things to say. It had started when Ash's fingers, warm and firm, had lingered over Serena's skin longer than perhaps the young champion had intended for them to, and realizing that he had still held her a little while after they had made their escape from the Pokémon Center, the boy had let go of the her hand with a guilty start.

In an attempt to reestablish a casual air, Ash had begun trying to recall—unsuccessfully—the various landmarks and shared tidbits about his earlier tour of the Academy, his voice friendly but lacking its typical ease. Meanwhile, Pikachu and Sylveon exchanged curious glances while their cheerful energy and carefree exploration provided a counterpoint to the hesitant, tender dance between their two trainers.

Sensing something off, Serena grew afraid that she had made a mess of things somehow and frantically began to search for some way to make Ash feel comfortable again. "Ash, remind me. Why did you come to Scarlet Academy?" Serena asked, giving Ash an encouraging smile to try and put him at ease. "You are the world's best Pokémon trainer now. Why come to a Battle School when you've already proven how strong you are?" She asked with a genuine interest, linking her arms behind her back.

Ash chuckled softly, feeling a little better by the seemingly normal question. He looked at her, a hint of nostalgia and excitement flickering in his eyes. "I just needed another adventure. There're always new things to learn." He glanced down at Pikachu, who continued to play with Sylveon, their playful antics drawing another short laugh from him. "Sure, I had become strong, beaten Leon, and achieved my dream. But then what? It couldn't just end there. I always imagined that being a Pokémon Master was about constantly striving to be better, to keep growing and getting stronger. The idea of just stopping and saying 'I'm done' didn't sit right with me."

Ash's gaze returned to Serena, his expression growing more excited. "When Brock told me about Paldea and Scarlet Academy, it sounded like the perfect next step. Pikachu and I could learn some new things here, experience new battles and strategies—new Pokémon! It's a chance to start fresh." Ash then chuckled and scratched his nose, "Also, I could escape all the 'Monarch' stuff they kept making me do—like special appearances at stuffy parties, photo-ops, interviews and all that. They don't really need me anyway—not until the next Masters Tournament, that is."

Ash's words flowed more freely now, his comfort around Serena growing as he continued to tell her what was on his mind. He found himself remembering how easy it had always been with her—how well she seemed to hear and understand him. She had always been so kind and fair to other people, never judging—always listening. Ash always felt refreshed after talking with her.

"You haven't changed," Serena said softly, a gentle warmth in her voice. Her eyes held a starry depth of emotion that pooled into her tone. "You're always just trying to do your best, never giving up."

Ash beamed. He felt something in him swell—almost like relief—and immediately, he felt completely at peace for a moment, as though everything in the world was just right. He remembered how Serena often made him feel like this. Like he could rest for a moment. Her words, simple yet true, reflected an understanding of who he was at his core, and he didn't need to explain himself further.

"Yeah, I guess some things never change," Ash responded, satisfied. "I just can't help it. There's always something new to learn, a new challenge to face. A new dream to go after."

Serena's soft laughter filled the air, but beneath it, Ash could sense something off about it—something that prompted her next question. "Well now that you're technically a Pokémon Master, do you have a new dream?"

Ash paused, his gaze lingering on Serena. His expression softened, an unexpected nervousness creeping in. It was as if a thought he hadn't fully acknowledged to himself surfaced, causing him to hesitate. "Uh, I don't know yet," he finally said slowly, though feeling as though the words were not quite true. Or that if they were true, they were unsettling. There was a tense silence following his answer. Ash looked away, a bit embarrassed, his hand reaching up to readjust his cap. "I just feel like I actually haven't quite reached my first dream," he said, and after a moment, he managed another friendly smile and turned the question back to her. "What about you? You became Top Coordinator in Hoenn. You went back and became Kalos Queen. What's next for you? Do you have a new dream?"

Serena's face flushed with soft color, her lips curving into a small, thoughtful smile. She seemed to ponder her answer, her eyes flashed boldly for a moment and then became a little uncertain. "I don't know either," she said softly, her voice barely more than a whisper. Yet she didn't elaborate, leaving a curious Ash wondering—and not without a subtle knot in his stomach—as to what she meant.

xxxxx

As Serena and Ash continued their exploration of the Academy, the young champion did eventually have to sheepishly ask someone where they could find the dance studios. The First Year girl he had decided to approach had practically swooned to have the Monarch of the World speaking to her, but with a shaky hand had managed to direct both Ash and Serena towards the East Wing, commonly known as the "Contest Hall."

As they walked away from the starstruck girl, Serena couldn't help but notice how the simple interaction between Ash and the girl highlighted his undeniable charm and the effect he had on people. She felt a strange twist in her stomach, pride in Ash and a slight pang of... something else, something she quickly blocked out of her mind.

The East Wing of the Academy was the oldest section of the Academy—The corridors bore the hallmarks of classical design, with ornate stone columns, grand archways, solid oak doors, and statues of Pokémon that stood like silent sentinels. The halls were lined with portraits of past Paldean contest champions and notable actors and actresses, their faces captured in a myriad of expressions, from triumphant to contemplative. The wooden floors creaked slightly underfoot, echoing the footsteps of countless students who had walked these halls over the years.

At the far side of the Contest Hall, the two at last found the dance studio—a timepiece of elegance and functionality, reminiscent of a regency-era ballroom. Its tall ceilings soared overhead, creating a sense of openness and grandeur. The walls were lined with large mirrors that reflected the studio's interior, giving dancers the ability to observe and perfect their movements. The hardwoods gleamed under the soft, natural light filtering in from the large windows, their polished surface ideal for the fluid movements of dance.

Above, coffered ceilings added a touch of classical sophistication to the room, their intricate designs lending an air of artistic refinement. The studio exuded an atmosphere of serene beauty, a perfect space for dancers to hone their craft and express their creativity.

Serena's eyes sparkled with excitement as she took in the details of the studio, her admiration for the space evident in her enthusiastic words. "This is incredible," she gushed, her voice filled with awe. "I can't wait to dance here. It's like something out of a dream!" She walked around the empty room, a romantic haze over the space as the sun shone through the windows.

Ash watched Serena's reaction, a smile playing on his lips as he shared in her excitement. Serena's clear joy made him feel happy that he had brought her here to see it. Pikachu and Sylveon also appeared excited and curious, observing their reflections and striking amusing dance poses.

Ash chuckled at them. "You know, I still remember when you tried to teach me how to dance," he found himself saying, scratching the back of his head, remembering how he had really failed to get better.

Serena watched Ash, amused and feeling again a new confidence twinkling in her eyes. A wry smile played on her lips as she playfully suggested, "Well, we could always try again?" Her tone was light, teasing, but she wrung her hands behind her back to the point she lost color in her fingertips.

Ash, surprised, couldn't help but let out a snort of laughter, his head shaking in agitation. He felt an unexpected leap in his stomach, a fluttering sensation that caught him by surprise. She'd said that so casually…

"So," Ash looked away from Serena, pretending to look around the dance studio, scuffing his shoe on the floor as though to see how smoothe the glossed wood was. "You'll be here every day at four?"

"Every day at four," she confirmed a bit shakily. "Um, are you going to come watch me sometimes?" Serena shook her head, her gold hair quivering, and the performer bit her lip as though immediately regretting everything issuing forth from her lips.

"Uh," Ash stammered. He looked a bit embarrassed, scratching the back of his head. "I-I just wanted to know where I could find you, so that maybe we could hang out after! It'll be nice to have you around," he managed to say, hoping to reassure her and himself. But he couldn't help but think that maybe whenever he felt those restless feelings that took over him sometimes, he could come find her.

Serena, sensing she might have made Ash feel uncomfortable again, smiled warmly. "It's okay for you to watch, you know," she found herself saying—which was not exactly what she'd meant to say, but what she found herself wanting to say. "I-I would like it if you did," her voice had gotten very, very low, "every now and then."

Ash gazed at Serena, his eyes lingering on her as if trying to unravel a puzzle. He was thinking hard—really hard—as if he was on the verge of understanding something significant but he just wasn't sure.

Pikachu and Sylveon, meanwhile, watched the exchange between their trainers with almost an exasperated air. The two Pokémon glanced back and forth between Ash and Serena before Pikachu began scratching the back of his head, while Sylveon covered her own eyes with her feelers.

Ash found it difficult to concentrate. He had always enjoyed watching Serena perform—to see her dance in her Showcases. Her grace, dedication, and passion on stage were things he'd always liked to see. Of course, back then he hadn't really thought much about why he had liked seeing her perform. It just felt innocent in the past. However, recently—ever since the Welcome Ceremony—he had been wanting to see her perform again, but this time the desire stirred a sense of guilt within him, as if his enjoyment of watching her was something more than just friendly support.

But now Serena was saying it was okay to watch her…that she liked it when he did.

Maybe he was overthinking things. That would be a first, he noted.

Still groggy with confusion, but more relieved, Ash smiled. "Of course!" he said, his usual confidence returning, "And I'll even go to your Mesagoza Showcases when I can! You know I'll support you no matter what!"

Serena returned Ash's smile, her countenance betraying a kaleidoscope of feelings—gratitude, affection…

And yearning.

xxxxx

Ash and Serena eventually found themselves in the school's front plaza, stepping into an open space that hummed with activity and movement. The plaza was a broad expanse of colorful, patterned tiles that created a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. A patchwork of light blues, oranges, and browns, formed a large starburst design at its center.

Serena couldn't help but again the Academy's exterior, its façade a classical vision of academia with tall windows, green ivy climbing the walls—the school's emblem prominently displayed above the main entrance. Neatly trimmed hedges and mature cypress trees framed the plaza, while students milled about, some sitting on the few benches under the shade or lounging on the lawn, while others ambled about with their Pokémon.

As they walked, Ash and Serena fell back into an easy rhythm of conversation. They spoke about Bonnie and Clemont, and even got onto the topic of Alola. However, their peaceful exchange was suddenly interrupted by a high-pitched yelp that cut through the buzz of the plaza, turning both their heads in surprise towards the source of the commotion.

"Come on, don't be such a wuss," a harsh voice scoffed.

Turning to the scene, Ash and Serena witnessed two figures cornering a young female student. She had a short, asymmetrical haircut with shades of blue and red highlighting the fringe, which added a pop of color to her otherwise subdued appearance. Her glasses, with thin red frames, perched neatly on her nose, and behind them, her expression was one of mild distress tinged with anxiety.

One of the figures postured threateningly before the girl was a young man dressed in a light blue shirt unbuttoned at the top, and a violet tie that matched his vibrant pants. He had on a helmet and star-shaped goggles; his pose intimidating and arrogant.

Beside him stood a young woman similarly dressed, her stance exuding a cold confidence. Her violet ensemble consisted of a frayed sleeveless white top with a purple collar and a matching purple skirt. Her white gloves and sneakers matched her companions, suggesting they were a team. Also like her companion, she wore a helmet and goggles pushed up on her head. She had one hand on her hip, the other holding a pokéball with a threatening air.

"Don't you get it? If you join Team Star, you can shine as bright as anyone!" The girl was saying, though her tone was laced with a bit of venom.

The girl with the glasses said nothing.

"Seriously, what's wrong with you? Don't you wanna burn bright with some friends like us?" the violet dressed man was saying, his dark features contorted with irritation. "Come on, you could start the Scarlet Academy insurgence! Lead the revolt against this pitiful school!"

"No thanks," the terrified girl asked again, her gaze on the plaza tiles.

The young man snorted, his voice getting louder. "Look—we've got a quota to fill for new members, so just sign already!"

"No…Thanks…" the girl said again, her voice shaky though full of conviction.

Serena observed the confrontation with concern, her instinct to help wrestling with her need to assess the situation carefully. Before she could take a step, Ash sprang into action. His usual calm demeanor was replaced by a protective urgency as he quickly bridged the distance between them.

"What's going on here?" Ash demanded, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife. He positioned himself beside the girl with the glasses, offering her a reassuring glance that promised support. His stance was firm, his eyes fixed on the violet-clad man and woman, challenging their intimidating posture with his unwavering resolve. Pikachu, sensing the gravity of the situation, readied itself, its cheeks sparking slightly in anticipation of a potential conflict.

Both of the grunts looked surprised. "The Monarch!" the girl in violet hissed, glancing hesitatingly towards her companion.

Then Serena's own protective nature kicked in full force as she raced up to Ash's side, her eyes filled with the kind of steely resolve typically reserved for her performances on stage. She and Sylevon took their places on the other side of the girl with the glasses, forming a united front with Ash and Pikachu. Their presence doubled the sense of security around the frightened student.

The two grunts, facing the unexpected solidarity presented by the two, exchanged a look of unease. The girl's confidence wavered, her grip on her pokéball tightening as she gauged Serena's determined stance. The male grunt's attempt to seem nonchalant crumbled under the weight of Ash's reputation; his smirk faltering as he realized the challenge he was now up against.

"You want in on this too, Ketchum?" he taunted, though the tremble in his voice betrayed his attempt at bravado. "Look, stand aside—we nearly have this one in the bag!" His words were desperate, the situation slipping from his control.

Serena's gaze never faltered. "We're not going anywhere," she stated firmly, her voice carrying a note of finality that left no room for argument. "It's clear she's not interested in whatever you're selling,so you'd better back off. Who do you think you are anyway?"

The girl with the glasses peeked from behind her newfound protectors, her eyes meeting Serena's. In them, Serena saw a flicker of gratitude mixed with lingering fear, a silent plea for this to be over.

The violet-clad girl's smirk never left her face, despite the clear tension in the air. Her confidence seemed unshaken, even in the face of two formidable opponents. "We're Team Star, sweetie," she said, her tone dripping with condescension as she brandished her pokéball, ready for a confrontation. She turned to her companion, her expression one of anticipation mixed with irritation. "Well, now what? We almost had four-eyes begging to sign our roster!"

Her companion adjusted his goggles with frustration. His concern was palpable, aware of the stakes at hand. "Team Star's reputation is on the line," he muttered, more to himself than to anyone else. "If they find out we didn't even put up a fight…" His voice trailed off as he took a cautious glance at Ash, measuring the potential of the challenge they faced.

The girl's hand moved swiftly. With a flourish, she tossed her pokéball into the air, and in a flash of light, a Shroodle emerged. The tiny shrew-like Pokémon with an almost hemispherical body, having a stubby tail and four small white feet with gray paw pads, stood ready, its large, yellow-green eyes staring fiercely at its opponents.

The Team Star boy was quick to follow suit, releasing a Nymble from his pokéball. The black, cricket Pokémon landed on the ground with a lightness that belied its sharp, pointed limbs. It moved with quick, jerky motions, its eyes scanning the environment, ready to leap into action at the slightest command.

Ash gestured for Pikachu to step forward. Serena, meanwhile, released her Delphox with a grace that matched the elegance of the fire-type Pokémon itself. Delphox appeared in a swirl of mystical fire, its wand-like stick already alight with a flame at the tip. The Pokémon exuded a calm yet formidable presence, its gaze fixed on its opponents with a keen intelligence.

"Let's go, Pikachu! Quick Attack" Ash commanded and Pikachu, lightning-quick and agile, darted towards Shroodle—disappearing in a blur of yellow for one moment; reappearing behind the shrew the next. Shroodle, at its trainer's command, tried to counter with Take Down, aiming to use its momentum against its opponent.

However, Pikachu nimbly evaded the charge. Ash nodded in approval and sought out a way to end this quickly. Noticing the space now created between the two Pokémon, he motioned for Pikachu. "Follow up with Electro Ball!"

The electric orb crackled through the air, forcing the male Team Star grunt to stammer out a command for Mud-Slap, and Shroodle began desperately to fling clumps of mud to disrupt Pikachu's attack and obscure its vision.

Meanwhile, Delphox, with the poise of a seasoned performer, had conjured a swirling Fire Spin. The fiery vortex trapped Nymble, the heat intensifying around the bug-type Pokémon. Nymble, struggling against the searing whirlwind, had no way out—its jaws feebly clamped down on the flames only to itself injured.

Sensing she'd trapped the Nymble, Serena smiled at Delphox. "Okay! Finish with Fire Blast!"

With Serena's command echoing in the open space, Delphox focused its energy, the flame on its wand glowing brighter. Just as the embers flickered at their brightest, the fox Pokémon smirked and almost gracefully blew into the growing fire.

And intense flames engulfed Nymble completely.

When the attack cleared, the bug Pokémon lay on the ground, twitching from the overwhelming power, its exoskeleton charred from the heat.

Ash looked on, impressed. "Nice!" he cried out, his voice filled with excitement, his fist raised in encouragement. Turning his attention back to the battle at hand, he saw Pikachu's next opening. "Thunderbolt!" he commanded with confidence.

Pikachu's cheeks sparked to life, and a massive surge of electricity burst forth, crackling through the air towards Shroodle. The Thunderbolt hit with precision, and the intensity of the electric shock was too much for the little shrew, which stiffened under the attack before collapsing to the ground, defeated by Pikachu's clear dominance.

The two Team Star members could only watch in disbelief as their Pokémon were bested with ease. They returned their familiars and looked as though they were going to call upon other Pokémon, when a loud voice interrupted the battle.

" Pero bueno! What's going on here?" The commotion at the school's plaza drew the attention of several students, but none so quickly and fiercely as Nemona. Her arrival was like a storm breaking the horizon, swift and decisive. Her orange eyes blazed with the fire of confrontation. The Team Star grunts, already on edge from their encounter with Ash and Serena, visibly stiffened at the sight of her. The student council president's stance was assertive, her voice carried the weight of authority and the promise of action as she surveyed the scene, recognizing the violet-clad figures of Team Star causing trouble yet again. Pawmo, ever on her shoulder, looked just as enraged.

Aliquis, Hohma, Ohara and their Pokémon trailed behind her, their expressions a cross between concern and curiosity. They quickly took in the situation: Ash and Serena standing guard by a cowering student, Pikachu and Delphox at the ready, and the Team Star grunts caught in the act of their aggressive recruitment.

"Urgh!" the female grunt from Team Star groaned, her annoyance clear as she recognized Nemona. The disdain she held for the student council was evident, her body language screaming defiance even in the face of a losing battle.

"She's gonna report us if we don't book it," the male grunt said, the grit in his voice betraying his anxiety. It was clear that the pair understood what it meant being caught by Nemona on Scarlet Academy grounds.

With all the bluster of someone used to being in charge, Nemona advanced a step, her fiery presence making the grunts shrink back. "You are not trying to get people to sign up for your sad little gang, are you? And on Scarlet Academy's campus? Increíble ," she snorted dismissively, hands on her hips in a display of dominance and control. "You guys must be desperate."

The two Team Star grunts bristled at Nemona's words, their frustration evident in their clenched fists and scowling faces. The girl's eyes darted nervously, realizing the potential trouble they were in now that the student council president had caught them in the act. She shot a venomous look at Nemona, her disdain for authority figures like her made evident.

"Yeah, well, you're not gonna stop us, Nemona," she spat, trying to maintain some semblance of defiance. "Team Star doesn't back down from anybody, not even the student council."

The boy beside her nodded, though the confidence in his voice was starting to wane. "That's right, we've got big plans for messing up Scarlet Academy's Treasure Hunt this year, and no one's gonna get in our way—especially not some schoolyard politicians."

Despite their bravado, the uncertainty was clear in their eyes as they exchanged a look that said they knew they were beaten—for now. With a huff, they returned their pokéballs to their belts, ready to make a hasty retreat before any further consequences could befall them.

"You guys sure have a lot of confidence for having just been whooped," Nemona, unfazed, took a step forward, her presence commanding. "I suggest you start walking. And don't let me catch you trying to recruit on this campus—or anywhere for that matter—again, or you'll have more than just the student council to worry about."

With a final glare, the Team Star grunts turned and slunk away. Nemona turned back to the others, her gaze softening as she checked on the red and blue-haired girl with glasses behind Ash and Serena. "Are you okay?" she asked, her tone now one of concern.

The girl nodded, finally finding her voice, but clearly uncomfortable. "Yea...well, thanks…"

Serena stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on the girl's shoulder. "Don't worry, you did the right thing by standing your ground. They can't force you into anything."

Ash gave the girl an encouraging smile, his protective nature still at the forefront. "Yeah, and if they ever bother you again, just let us know. We'll help you out, right, Pikachu?"

"Pika!" the electric mouse agreed, nodding vigorously.

Aliquis, Hohma, and Ohara— now close enough to join the conversation—voiced their support and curiosity as well.

"So what's your name?" Ohara began kindly, her brown eyes searching the girl's face for some kind of recognition. "I don't think we've seen you around her before!" she exclaimed, and her Fuecoco croaked warmly.

The aftermath of the confrontation left the red and blue-haired girl visibly rattled. Her anxious eyes darted from the retreating figures of Team Star to the faces of those who had come to her aid, a silent struggle playing across her features. In a sudden burst of movement, the girl turned on her heel and sprinted away, her form quickly being swallowed up by the embrace of the Academy's main buildings.

The rapid patter of her footsteps echoed off the tilework. Nemona, her hands falling to her sides, watched the girl's retreat with some irritation. "Seriously?" she huffed, the energy of her earlier heroics dissipating into the air. "Well, she must be just shy…a new student I guess. I haven't seen her before."

Serena, concerned, watched the girl disappear with furrowed brows and a hand pressed lightly against her chest, where her heart beat a little faster. "I hope she's okay," she murmured, her voice a gentle lilt in the now quiet plaza.

Ash's eyes traced the path the girl had taken. Pikachu, sensing the mood, nudged against his leg.

Nemona stood with an air of pride, her chest puffed out slightly as she surveyed the aftermath of the impromptu skirmish. "Well, at least that's another Team Star crisis averted," she declared, her voice laced with a hint of smugness. A playful glimmer danced in her eyes as she turned to the others, feigning disappointment. "Of course, it would have been nice to get invited to the battle party."

Ash, catching Nemona's mock-accusatory tone, scratched the back of his head, a sheepish smile spreading across his face. He was about to offer a playful retort when his attention was drawn to Delphox, the fire-type Pokémon standing tall and dignified beside Serena.

"Delphox, you've really gotten so much stronger since the last time we battled!" Ash exclaimed, his voice carrying a genuine respect and awe for the Pokémon's prowess..

Delphox, upon hearing Ash's compliment, beamed with pride. Its bushy tail swished contentedly, and its eyes sparkled with satisfaction. Nearby, Sylveon and Pikachu observed the exchange, their expressions mirroring their approval. Pikachu gave a cheerful "Pika!" while Sylveon's feelers gently swayed.

The tall fox-Pokémon then turned its attention to Serena with a knowing look. With a gesture that seemed almost sagely, it pointed to its wrist, mimicking the motion of checking a watch. Serena, catching the hint, quickly searched the faces of those around her, her eyes landing on Hohma, noticing that he wore a wristwatch.

"Um, what time is it, Hohma?" she asked, a note of urgency in her voice.

Hohma glanced down at his wrist. "It's almost five—"

Serena's face fell as she brought her hands to her face in shock. "Oh! I have to go!" she exclaimed, returning Delphox and Sylveon to their pokéballs with swift movements. "I have rehearsals!"

"Looks like someone's going to miss the churro social," Aliquis, his usual aloof demeanor replaced with something giddy, hummed with excitement. The group gave him a surprised look, prompting him to quickly resume his aloof posture, folding his arms across his chest in a manner that mirrored his Meowscarada. "Whatever. I love churros."

"Wait, Serena!" Ash pursued the golden-haired girl to the steps and grabbed her wrist in an instinctive motion, again feeling those strange sensations he didn't really understand. But he just really didn't want her to go for some reason.

Serena turned, surprised and visibly flustered by his touch. Her blue eyes widened, conveying a myriad of emotions Ash couldn't quite decipher.

The young champion hadn't really thought much beyond stopping her, he realized. He released his grip on her and gave her a crooked, boyish grin as he scratched his nose. "Sorry, I mean—so when will I see you again?"

Serena beamed through the rush of heat that ignited across her skin, dappled by a pallet of fiery colors blooming throughout the Paldean sunset. And then she decided to be bold because his brown eyes had turned amber in the late afternoon sunlight. Because she was reminded of him pulling away from the Lilycove Dock two years ago. Because she wanted him. And she leaned into him, so that her lips were against his ear.

"Whenever you decide to come find me next, Ash Ketchum," she whispered. With her face a deep shade of crimson, Serena playfully pushed away from Ash and descended down the steps, disappearing into the bustling streets of Mesagoza.

And as she left, Ash felt more confused than ever. He chuckled to himself, trying to dispel his own discomfort, but it remained and he grew a bit frustrated.

When he finally turned around to face the others, Aliquis, Hohma, Ohara, and even Pikachu suddenly averted their eyes from the scene and began to whistle.

Nemona began chatting about churros.

xxxxx

Later that night, Arven found himself in the quiet, moonlit Biology lab. The facility was filled with a variety of specimens, ranging from various types of herbs and berries to other botanical samples, each meticulously labeled and stored for study. Desks equipped with advanced computers, overflowing with piles of research papers, were interspersed throughout the room. Microscopes and other intricate lab equipment were strategically placed, indicating ongoing projects and experiments.

Arven, accompanied by his Mabosstiff, navigated quietly through the lab, passing by rows of shelves filled with textbooks and other old tomes. The air carried the heady scent of various plant life, mixed with the sterile smell typical of a scientific research environment.

Towards the back of the lab was a sealed room, marked for authorized personnel only. Arven approached the glass partition. Inside, he could see Jacq, deeply engrossed in his work. The researcher was handling a sample of the Sweet Herba Mystica, the plant emitting a mysterious, otherworldly glow. Jacq carefully extracted its essence with a syringe, his movements precise and deliberate.

As he transferred the glowing pink liquid into a small vial, the contents emitted a soft, ethereal light that seemed almost magical. The glow bathed the room in a gentle radiance, casting long, dancing shadows on the walls.

Arven watched, fascinated yet disturbed to see the plant fade and wither ever so slightly as Jacq continued his meticulous extraction, handling the rare and valuable substance with the utmost care.

Upon noticing Arven's presence, Jacq paused, giving the botanist student a nod of acknowledgement through the glass. His face, partially obscured by the protective goggles, conveyed a sense of focus. Finishing up his task with the vial of Sweet Herba Mystica, Jacq—after replacing the plant back into a sealed container—clicked a few buttons within the isolated testing chamber, initiating the decontamination process before exiting the room.

He removed his goggles as he stepped out, revealing his tired, purple-haired visage. His eyes, though weary, held a glimmer of hope. Holding the small vial containing the glowing pink substance, Jacq approached Arven.

"It's not much, but it might help Koraidon for now," Jacq said, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. He handed the vial to Arven, its light pulsating gently in the dim lab. "The sooner it gets the herb, the better—and record the effects!" the biology professor's words carried the weight of concern, not just for the immediate well-being of Koraidon but also for the potential insights the Herba Mystica could provide into the Pokémon's unique condition.

Arven reached out with visibly shaky hands, the weight of the responsibility he was undertaking manifesting in his unsteady grip. He carefully took the vial, his fingers wrapping around the cool glass with a sense of unease. The soft pink glow from within the vial illuminated his face, casting shadows that seemed to accentuate the inner conflict he was experiencing.

A wrestling match broke out behind his eyes, a struggle between what he knew he should do and other, unvoiced plans that seemed to grapple for dominance in his mind. It was evident that this task, while crucial for Koraidon's recovery, also presented him with a…temptation.

He gazed long and hard at Mabosstiff. And then, with a shake of his head as though to dispel an encroaching thought, Arven put the vial in his bag.

The botany student bid farewell to Jacq, his mind a whirlwind as he stepped back out into the dimly lit corridors. The quiet halls, the moonlight shining in through the tall windows, echoed with his solitary footsteps. As he walked, a sense of unease settled over him, his thoughts deeply conflicted.

He paused along the way, his gaze darting around to ensure he was alone. With a deep breath, he crouched down beside his Mabosstiff, the Pokémon's usually sickly appearance drawing a pang of sympathy from him. The Mabosstiff looked up at Arven with curious, trusting eyes, unaware of the trainer's internal struggle.

Gingerly, Arven extracted the vial containing the luminous pink liquid and hesitated for a moment. The guilt of his intended action weighed heavily on him, yet the desire to relieve his Pokémon of its constant discomfort urged him forward. It was the reason behind his studying the Herba Mystica in the first place—to help Mabosstiff, his companion; his best friend.

Carefully, Arven administered a few drops of the mystical herb to his canine.

Almost immediately, a noticeable change occurred. The Mabosstiff's color began to return, its eyes brightening as it let out a whine of relief. The transformation, although subtle, was an improvement—not a complete one, but a start. Arven watched, a smile breaking through his conflicted expression.

"So it does work," he murmured, watching Mabosstiff carefully. The canine Pokémon would need more.

With half of the Herba Mystica still in the vial, Arven tucked it away securely, hoping it would be enough for Koraidon. The weight of his decision lingered in his chest as he stood up, determined to find Ash and deliver the remaining dose. His steps were heavier now, burdened by the secret he carried and the knowledge of what he had just done. However, he knew that he needed Koraidon to recover as well. He still believed that Pokémon was the key. The key to everything.

xxxxx

The night waxed on. Goh and Ash, too excited by the day's events to sleep just yet, found themselves amidst a setting that was more reminiscent of a traditional workout space than a modern fitness center. The gym, with its old-school charm, was equipped mostly with free weights and barbells, creating an atmosphere that felt both classic and a bit austere. The laminate wood flooring added to the room's practicality, while the low ceilings contributed to a somewhat stuffy ambiance.

Despite these characteristics, the gym was relatively empty at this late hour, offering a quiet and private space for Ash and Goh's workout session. Ash was at the bench press, pushing himself with a determination that had become a part of his routine since he became the Monarch of the World. Lifting weights had turned into a way for him to not only let off steam but also to physically prepare for the challenges of battles. His face contorted in concentration and effort as he lifted the barbell, the weights clinking with each rep.

"Okay, I'm going for five!" Ash grunted, lowering the iron to his chest and pumping it back up with a smooth, deliberate movement.

Goh, acting as the spotter, stood attentively behind Ash's head. "Yup, yup. I got you!" His eyes were focused on Ash's form, ready to assist at any moment. "You gotta touch your chest with the barbell. You're not going down all the way!"

"I am, though!" Ash groaned, making a show to do exactly as Goh had said.

Nearby, Pikachu and Grookey engaged in their own playful workout, amusing themselves with the smaller weighted plates. Pikachu, with his quick movements, playfully nudged the plates across the floor, while Grookey, with childlike curiosity, experimented with lifting them, mimicking Ash and Goh's activities. Meanwhile, Cinderace and Charcadet took their own workout rather seriously, completing a series of bicep curls—the charcoal Pokémon impressively doing its best to keep up with its companion.

While Ash lay on the bench completing his exercises, his mind involuntarily wandered to Serena and the moments they had shared together. He was really trying to figure out what all his feelings were about, and the struggle left him mildly annoyed. On one hand, being with Serena felt so natural, so easy – some of their conversations flowed effortlessly, and he really liked how content he felt just being around her. But on the other hand, a new, unfamiliar tension seemed to be building between them with each interaction, and he felt like she was pushing him towards something—and that 'something' was the real mystery.

Memories of their time together played back in his mind: the casual brush of her fingers against his skin, the warmth of her wrist in his hand, the soft sound of her laughter. These moments, once seemingly not a big deal, now ignited a dizzy feeling within Ash—one he couldn't quite understand or control.

The young champion's thoughts were interrupted by Brock and Croagunk emerging from the cardio room, white towels casually draped over their shoulders. Brock paused to observe Ash, his determination evident in his strained expression. With an amused smirk, Brock whistled, "That's pretty heavy, Ash. Trying to impress someone?"

Ash's concentration shattered. His arms, already taxed from the exercise, suddenly lost their strength. The barbell, weighed down with plates, proved too much for him to handle and descended, pinning him helplessly on the bench.

Goh, confused by Brock's comment, furrowed his brow. Before he could react to Ash's predicament, his attention was diverted by a notification on his Rotom Phone. Glancing at the screen, he read the message and said, "Arven wants to meet! He says to go to the back courtyard."

Brock's demeanor shifted from teasing to seriousness in an instant. "Then we should go," he stated, returning his Pokémon and already moving towards the door, his mind switching gears to the urgency of the situation. Goh followed, recalling his Cinderace.

Meanwhile, Ash lay helplessly under the weight of the barbell, his voice strained as he managed a weak, "Guys! A little help?"

xxxxx

Ash, Goh, and Brock made their way to the back courtyard of the Academy under the cover of a late night sky. Only Pikachu and Grookey remained alongside them. The full moon cast a serene glow over the neatly trimmed hedges and lush plants. The courtyard, usually bustling with activity during the day, was now eerily quiet, with not a soul in sight.

As they ventured further, the tranquility of the night was suddenly broken by Arven's unexpected appearance. He and his Mabosstiff seemed to materialize out of the shadows, startling Brock who couldn't help but exclaim, "Arceus!"

Arven rolled his eyes.

Without a word, the botanist gestured for them to follow him. He led the group deeper into the secluded areas behind the school, away from the main pathways. The hush of the night seemed to deepen as they moved, with only the sound of their footsteps and the distant rustling of leaves breaking the silence.

The moonlight filtered through the branches of the trees, casting dancing shadows on their path. It felt as if they were stepping into a hidden part of the Academy, a place where secrets could be whispered without fear of being overheard. Not for the first time, Ash marveled at just how big the place was.

"I have the Herba Mystica," Arven stated, his voice carrying a weight of seriousness as he looked straight at Ash and the others. His lips were set in a firm line.

Ash and the others exchanged quick glances. "Great!" Ash nodded. He eagerly pulled out Koraidon's pokéball, pressing the button to release the creature into the cool night air.

Koraidon materialized with a soft glow, its form still showing signs of weakness, yet there was a sense of joy in being out in the open. "Hey, Koraidon, how've you been?" Ash greeted warmly, his voice filled with concern and affection.

The red-scaled Pokémon responded with a dignified nod, before settling itself on its haunches, seemingly taking a moment to gather its strength. It lifted its head towards the night sky, its eyes reflecting the moonlight, conveying a sense of yearning.

Ash gently raised his hand towards Koraidon, seeking to offer a comforting touch. The Paradox Pokémon, understanding the gesture, inclined its snout to nuzzle against Ash's palm affectionately. Pikachu, resettled on Ash's shoulder, let out a happy cry.

"We have something that hopefully will make you feel better," Ash said to Koraidon, his voice filled with hope and care. He then turned and gestured for Arven to come closer.

Goh, witnessing Koraidon for the first time, looked on in amazement. The majesty and uniqueness of the Paradox Pokémon captivated him, wonder and curiosity evident in his eyes.

As Arven approached, Brock watched intently, his eyes fixed on the pink vial that Arven held in his hands. "And this will act like a potion?" Brock asked, his tone laced with fascination and intrigue.

Arven nodded in response, his expression serious as he explained, "Kind of. This is the Sweet Herba. There are technically five varieties, but we have been unable to locate the other four. However, we've been studying this sample for the last two years, administering very small doses to highly controlled test subjects to study the effects. Supposedly, this particular Herba assists with digestion and appetite."

Brock listened intently to Arven's explanation, his gaze thoughtful as he processed the information about the mysterious Herba Mystica. Goh, equally captivated, leaned in closer to get a better look at the vial. "Why is it glowing?" he inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity.

Arven let out a sigh. "We don't know," he admitted. "It contains bioluminescent properties, but there's no clear reason why it should glow without being connected to a living source."

"A living source...?" Ash repeated, the words lingering in the air, his brow furrowing slightly in contemplation.

Nonetheless, Ash reached for the vial, holding it carefully before Koraidon. "Do you think you can drink this, Koraidon? It's supposed to make you feel better and give you some strength back," he said gently, coaxing the Paradox Pokémon.

Koraidon eyed the Herba Mystica warily, its large, intelligent eyes scrutinizing the glowing substance. After a moment of hesitation, the Pokémon gave a nod of assent, cautiously drawing its mouth near Ash's hand. Ash carefully uncorked the vial and poured the glowing contents into Koraidon's waiting jaws, which snapped shut upon receiving the medicine.

The Pokémon shook its head, a huff escaping its throat, but then a noticeable change occurred. A light returned to its eyes, a glow that spoke of renewed life and energy. Its muscles seemed to regain their vigor as Koraidon stood up, shaking its scarlet scales in a display of revitalized strength. Then, with a roar that echoed through the school grounds, Koraidon announced its recovery, a sound filled with power and vitality.

Arven, startled by Koraidon's roar, panicked and cried out, "Ash—get it to quiet down!"

Ash, reacting quickly, jumped in front of Koraidon and gently placed his hand on the Pokémon's snout. "Hey, Koraidon!" he said in a firm but soothing tone. "You need to be quiet. We can't draw attention here." He looked intently into the Pokémon's eyes, communicating the importance of discretion.

Koraidon, understanding Ash's plea, calmed itself and gave another mighty, but happy, shake of its body. The blue-purple and white plumes on its body swayed gently in the light breeze, a majestic and serene sight in the moonlit courtyard.

Just then, a new voice cut through the quiet of the night.

"Holy shit,"

And from the shadows emerged a figure, stepping into the faint moonlight that filtered through the trees. The group fixed their gaze on the newcomer, curiosity and a hint of apprehension on their faces.

xxxxx

Arven's voice was laden with distress as he announced, "It' over…"

The figure moved swiftly out of the shadows, the moonbeams flashing across his face, revealing a countenance that was both a mix of amazement and fear as a pair of dark, indigo eyes landed on Koraidon. Then, the gaze shifted to Ash.

"Gary?" Ash exclaimed, his voice a blend of joy and surprise.

Goh started and began to wave the researcher over with excitement. "Hey, man! Over here!"

Arven's confusion was evident, his nervousness undiminished. "Are you all insane? Nobody else can know about this. You heard Clavell!" he protested, his voice tinged with panic.

Ash, in an attempt to calm Arven, placed a hand on his shoulder. "It's okay. We can trust him," he said, offering a reassuring smile.

Arven, however, remained unconvinced, his tone laced with sarcasm. "That's rich. This coming from a guy who'd trust a rock not to be hard," he retorted morosely.

As Gary, accompanied by his Umbreon, approached the group, Goh's demeanor shifted. He folded his arms across his chest, casting a glare towards the researcher. "What gives? I called you like ten times, then you cut me off and leave me hanging!" he accused, waving his arms in an animated fashion.

Gary came to a halt, maintaining a cautious distance from the striking red-scaled Koraidon. His eyes widened, awed and fascinated. "Whoa," he muttered under his breath, his gaze fixed intently on the creature. "So that's a Paradox Pokémon?"

Arven, meanwhile, looked utterly bewildered. "How does he know that?" he blurted out, his arms flailing in disbelief.

Goh, trying to focus on the matter at hand, continued his dramatic accusation towards Gary. "You abandoned me!" he exclaimed, his voice rising in exasperation. Grookey, perched on Goh's head, chimed in with its own chirps, seemingly echoing its trainer's sentiments.

Gary, slightly irked by the indictment, pulled out his Rotom Phone and held it up. "Uh, your last text told me to come find you," he said, his tone tinged with irritation. He proceeded to read Goh's message aloud, emphasizing each word:

"COME FIND ME ASAP. NEED HELP. CRAZY POKEMON STUFF GOING DOWN."

The air was charged with a blend of tension and confusion as each member of the group processed the situation, their eyes occasionally drifting back to the magnificent and enigmatic Koraidon and then to Goh.

"And then you shared your location," Gary's sarcasm was palpable as he pocketed his phone, his gaze still bouncing between Ash and the red-scaled creature. Goh, looking a bit 'guilty-as-charged', could only offer a sheepish look in response.

Brock, sensing the growing complexity of the situation, turned to Ash and Goh for some clarity. "So, what even is going on around here?" he inquired.

Ash, unsure of how to begin, gestured towards Goh to take the lead. However, before Goh could formulate a response, Gary interjected, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism and awe. "I should be asking you all that," he remarked, his approach cautious yet intrigued. His eyes, anxious and alert, flicked between Ash and the Paradox Pokémon, taking in every detail.

As Gary drew closer, he noticed the pokéball in Ash's hand and the protective stance of Koraidon in front of its trainer. A wry smile played across Gary's lips. "What the hell have you gotten yourself into this time, Ashy-boy?" he asked, his tone half-mocking yet laced with genuine curiosity. "Boy, I bet you don't even know."

The air was heavy with unanswered questions and unspoken revelations, the group standing in a circle under the moonlit sky, the presence of Koraidon adding a sense of gravity to their gathering.

Arven's annoyance was evident as he shifted uneasily, his eyes narrowing slightly at Gary. "Once again, a proper introduction would be nice," he said, his voice flustered.

Gary looked at Arven as though seeing him for the first time. He then turned back to Ash while pointing to the botanist with a thumb with an 'is-this-guy-serious' look. The face then transitioned to a silent 'can-he-be-trusted' question to which Ash just nodded. Gary then faced Arven again, extending his hand in a more formal introduction. "Gary Oak," he said firmly, "Research Fellow at Cherie Labs in Kanto."

Arven's expression shifted from annoyance to surprise. Hesitatingly, he took the hand. "How the heck did you get into Paldea? Foreign researchers aren't allowed—," he began, his voice trailing off with uncertainty.

Gary cut him off with a sharp look, his eyes darkening with impatience and caution. "By posing as not a researcher, so relax," he retorted. His gaze lingered on Arven, sizing him up and deeming him a potential weak link in the group. "I'm here on, well, business now," he added, his tone suggesting there was more to his presence than met the eye.

Brock, who had been observing the exchange quietly, shifted his focus to Gary's attire, his eyes scanning the polished suit. "Sure looks that way," he commented, his tone one of mild skepticism. "But what's going on? And why do you and Goh seem to be in cahoots?"

Gary eyed the group of young men before him. He checked his wristwatch. It was nearly eleven. He then nodded and motioned with his head back towards the city. "I'll tell you everything in exchange for what you all seem to know. But I think we can help each other out."

Arven stepped forward to object but not before Ash stopped him. "Gary's one of my best friends. And, despite what you said earlier about a rock and whatever, I really trust him and I do think he can help," Ash said, his voice firm and almost a little threatening, which surprised the botanist as the young champion normally appeared so easy going and carefree. Ash then turned back to Gary and nodded. "It's a deal."

Gary clapped his hands, startling Koraidon who snorted and snapped its jaws in response. The sudden movement caused Gary to flinch, while his Umbreon remained on high alert, its eyes fixed warily on the giant Pokémon.

"Look," Gary said, his voice shifting to a more professional and cerebral tone as he studied the Paradox Pokémon. "This guy shouldn't be out here too long. This place still isn't safe. Especially since he roared to the high heavens not too long ago…"

Brock, nodding in agreement, but looked at Ash, "Maybe tomorrow night you can take him to the fields around the city so he can get some exercise and regain his strength. Especially now that the Herba Mystica seems to have helped a bit."

As if on cue, Koraidon let out a big yawn, its energy visibly waning. Without needing a command, it willingly returned to the pokéball in Ash's hand, clearly uninterested in the ongoing conversation.

Gary observed the scene, his eyebrows raised in mild surprise. "Well, that solves one thing. Off to solve another," he remarked, his tone indicating a shift in focus.

Arven, still visibly annoyed and somber at Gary's unexpected arrival and involvement, couldn't help but roll his eyes. "And what's the next 'thing' we're solving?" he asked, his voice tinged with skepticism.

Gary turned on his heels and began walking back around the school the way he had come, moving in the direction of the city. His Umbreon, like a shadow, moved silently beside him. "My desperate need for a drink," he replied nonchalantly, his demeanor relaxed yet purposeful as he moved away from the group.

xxxxx

After an intense rehearsal session, Serena lay wide awake in her bed, her mind buzzing with the excitement of the day's events. The moonlight streamed softly through the sheer curtains of her room, casting a buttery glow over her surroundings. Her Pokémon, exhausted from the rigorous practice, were fast asleep, their gentle breathing the only sound in the otherwise silent room.

The rehearsal had been a whirlwind of activity. Serena had spent hours going through choreography, fine-tuning each movement to perfection. She had also worked with several Coordinator students from Scarlet Academy, who Guillermo had identified as aspiring performers. Incorporating these students into her show had been a thrilling experience for Serena. She started them off with small roles, keen on giving them and their Pokémon a platform to showcase their talents and grow.

As she lay in bed, her body tired but her mind alert, Serena couldn't help but replay the day's events. The steps of the dance routine flowed through her mind, each movement blending seamlessly into the next. She thought about the eager faces of the Coordinator students, their enthusiasm and dedication mirroring her own when she had first started.

But more than the rehearsals, her thoughts kept drifting back to her time spent with a certain raven-haired boy earlier that day…Their walk around the Academy, their conversation about dreams, the unspoken tension, and the brief, charged moments of physical contact. She remembered the way his hand had felt on her wrist, the warmth of his smile, and the amber hue of his eyes in the setting sun.

Serena turned restlessly in her bed, a mix of emotions swirling within her. There was excitement for her upcoming performance, gratitude for the opportunity to work with the students, and a growing sense of longing for something more with Ash. She sighed softly, and suddenly she felt as though the moonlight and the shadows swirling around her apartment all reflected the turmoil of her thoughts. Despite the fatigue of her body, sleep seemed far away, her heart and mind too full of the day's experiences and the possibilities of what lay ahead.

As she clutched a pillow close to her body, frustration gnawed at her. Didn't he get it? she wondered. She writhed restlessly, the pillow a poor substitute for the clarity she sought.

Does he really not see what he does to me? Serena questioned, her heart aching with hope and uncertainty. Her mind replayed their interactions, each moment loaded with her own unspoken words and unacknowledged feelings. It felt like a dance of sorts, one where the steps were known but never fully executed.

With a sigh, she reached for her pink Rotom Phone on the nightstand. The soft glow of the screen provided a small comfort in the otherwise overwhelming night. Her fingers hesitated over the keypad:

[Bonnie]

11:47 p.m.

Serena: Awake?

Bonnie: That's a stupid question.

Serena let out a breath of relief and giggled, quickly placing a hand over her mouth when she heard Delphox stir nearby. She began to type again, her fingers mutely dancing across the screen.

Serena: What are you doing?

Bonnie: Reading gossip magazines and watching TV.

Serena: You should not be doing either this late! Clemont better not find out!

Bonnie: Clemont thinks I'm doing homework. He's so dense.

Bonnie: Speaking of dense people…

Bonnie: Have you run into Ash yet?

Serena felt her body go cold. Bonnie knew? Of course she knew. And it dawned on Serena that the young girl had probably known Ash was in Paldea long before even Serena arrived. Especially if she is reading those magazines, which Serena had learned to avoid…

Serena: You didn't think to warn me?

Bonnie: I thought about it!

Serena doubted that.

Serena: Well yes we've run into each other. He's actually in Mesagoza too.

Bonnie: I know.

Serena felt a vein pop in her forehead. This is what she gets for avoiding media…

Serena: Of course you do.

Bonnie: Well? How is he? Give him a kiss hello? ;)

Insufferable girl! Serena huffed and buried her face in a nearby pillow.

Serena: No I did not! Bonnie!

Bonnie: Whaaat, why not? :(

Serena sighed. This was a terrible idea. She needed to go to sleep or do literally anything else.

Serena: We're just good friends.

Bonnie: Ummmmmm.

Bonnie: No.

Bonnie: I reject that.

[Bonnie added Shauna to the conversation]

Serema: What are you doing?!

Bonnie: Shauna! You awake?

Shauna: Bonnie? Yes?

Shauna: Oooo! Hey Serena! (^o^)

Shauna: And obviously I'm awake. The Kalosian Bachelor is on. Behind the Scenes special ;D

Bonnie: Omg which girl do you like best? I like the one with the Leafeon…

Shauna: She's ok. I like the girl from Coumarine better.

Serena: Hi Shauna…

[Bonnie changed group chat name to: Glow Up Before You Grow Up]

Shauna: Oooo. Fun name. Why haven't we done this before?

Bonnie: Because Serena didn't need boy advice before.

Shauna: Ummm. LOL. False.

Shauna: Serena's always needed boy advice.

Bonnie: Well Serena has never ASKED for boy advice before.

Serena: STILL NOT ASKING!

Serena was turning fifty shades of red. Flustered, she sat up on the bed and brought her knees to her chest, the phone's screen still illuminating her face.

Bonnie: Serena's hanging out with Ash again! In Paldea!

Bonnie: Did he mention the kiss at all?

Shauna: THE KISS? WTF?

Serena: BONNIE!

Serena: And Shauna! Watch your language around Bonnie.

Shauna: Omg

Serena's heart stopped beating as Bonnie proceeded to fill Shauna in. Everything had officially spiraled out of control.

Bonnie: He totally liked it too.

Shauna: IM SCREAMING.

Shauna: Well, Serena? What did he say?

Serena bit her lip. She looked through the window at the pale light filtering into the room, caressing the sheets of her bed. She sighed.

Serena: Nothing…

Bonnie: Lame

Shauna: You should ask him about it!

Again, the performer went cold all over. There was no way. None. Zip. She needed to keep this equilibrium between her and Ash. She couldn't ruin their friendship. If the kiss had meant anything to him…Serena paused, swallowing hard as though there were a lump in her throat. If the kiss had meant anything to Ash, he would have said something. Right?

Serena: I don't think that's a good idea…

Bonnie: That's a great idea!

Bonnie: Serena, stop. I remember the way Ash used to look at you.

Shauna: Omg, me too. It was soooo cute. And how he always called her amazing and awesome! lol

Serena: Guys! That was so long ago…

[Shauna changed group chat name to: Operation Get Serena to Confess! 3]

Serena: I don't feel that way anymore guys! Really!

Shauna: STFU. Do NOT lie to me. I'm your best friend.

Shauna: Oops. Sorry Bonnie.

Bonnie: Hahahahaha

Shauna: But seriously, Serena. If you still like Ash—and I know you do—you have to tell him. He's probably too nervous to bring up the kiss…or thinks that you might not even feel that way anymore since it's been so long! \(^-^)/

Bonnie: Facts.

Serena set her phone down. In the stillness of her room, secured away from the bustle of the city and the pressures of performance, she allowed herself a moment of honest introspection. Closing her eyes, she took a deep, steadying breath, her mind swirling with the voices of her friends and the echoes of her own heart.

As she sat there, the undeniable truth emerged from the depths of her mind, a wave of realization washing over her like cold rain. Despite the years, the distance, and the changes they had both undergone, her feelings for Ash hadn't faded; they had merely been buried under layers of uncertainty and fear. The epiphany felt like a weight lifting, yet also like a new burden being placed upon her shoulders. The burden of wanting to keep Ash in her life, but not as they were—not as they had been…

What if. What if she ruined it—the friendship, the equilibrium, the comfortability? What if she ruined it all willingly?

Serena closed her eyes. What if she just told him everything? What if she just let herself fall for him—really fall for him? She couldn't run from her feelings any longer; they were a part of her, as real and vibrant as anything about her.

She opened her eyes slowly, a newfound determination taking hold. Her friends were right. She had to face these feelings head-on, and that meant confronting the possibility that Ash might not feel the same way. But even the risk of unrequited feelings seemed better than this. And if she ruined their friendship and lost him…well…then so be it.

Serena picked up her phone again, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. It was time for her to take the stage in a different way, to confess her feelings and see where they led. The thought was terrifying, but Serena knew she owed it to herself—and to Ash—to be honest about everything.

Serena: Ok.

Shauna: Ok what?

Bonnie: What what WHAT?

Serena hesitated. Her fingers worked slowly over the screen.

Serena: I'll tell him.

Bonnie: HOLY S—

Serena did not read the rest of Bonnie's message, but she had a feeling she would be reprimanding the young girl later. She needed rest, not only for her body but for her mind too, which spun with an overwhelming mix of emotions and thoughts. With a decisive motion, she muted her phone, setting it aside. The weight of her own feelings was enough to contend with for one night.

Sleep seemed like a distant promise, but she knew she had to try. She needed the rest for the challenging days ahead, especially with the resolution she had come to.

"I can't keep being just friends," she whispered to herself, her voice lost in the stillness of the moonlight. The realization was painful, stark and undeniable.

As she closed her eyes, a resolve continued forming in her heart. Serena had grown up. She was no longer the hesitant girl who once traveled alongside Ash, waiting for his attention. She knew what she wanted, and she was determined to be bold about it. I have to tell him , and her eyes glittered like starlight.

Serena knew it was the only way forward. Whether it led to joy or heartache, Serena understood that clarity was essential. She could no longer live in the shadow of unspoken words and hidden feelings. And if Ash didn't feel the same way…well then she would accept that and move on. She would have to.

xxxxx

[Operation Get Serena to Confess]

12:08 a.m.

Shauna: YAY OMGOMG YOU GO GIRL!

Bonnie: WHEN?

12:21 a.m.

Bonnie: Hellooooo?

Shauna: I think she went to bed.

Bonnie: WHAT? Urgh.

[Bonnie added Miette to the group]

Shauna: Are you crazy?!

Bonnie: XD

Miette:…..

Miette: You're kidding me right?

Miette: This can't still be a thing?

Shauna: oh, hi Miette! You're up late!

Miette: Bachelor.

Shauna: I like the Coumarine girl

Shauna: omg they're kissing!

Bonnie: Think Serena will kiss like THAT? (*_*)

Shauna: No way Serena knows how to do that.

Bonnie: Well, she'll just have to practice ;)

[Miette left the group]

xxxxx

The late night streets of Mesagoza still buzzed with life and energy. Under the glow of street lamps and neon signs, Gary led Ash, Brock, Goh and Arven through the vibrant city. People bustled about, some heading home from work, others just starting their night. The occasional laughter and chatter from the passersby filled the air with a sense of liveliness unique to Mesagoza after dark.

They arrived at a bar nestled in a lively part of town, its facade a charming mix of traditional Paldean architecture and modern fixtures. The bar, named "El Rey Rattata," exuded a warm, inviting glow from its interior, beckoning night-goers with the promise of good food and a relaxed atmosphere.

Inside, exposed wooden beams adorned the ceiling, complementing the polished wood of the bar and tables. Soft, ambient lighting emanated from wrought-iron fixtures, casting a gentle glow over the patrons. The walls were decorated with colorful artwork and framed photographs. The bar itself was a lively hub, with bartenders skillfully mixing drinks and serving up an array of delicious tapas. A variety of traditional small plates were on display, from patatas bravas to an assortment of local cheeses and cured meats.

Gary, Ash, Brock, Goh and Arven found a spot towards the back, the wooden benches providing a comfortable perch as they settled in. Pikachu and Grookey sat on their respective trainer's laps while Umbreon and Mabosstiff laid themselves down on the floor beside their table. The low hum of conversations and clinking glasses resounded around them. It was not exactly a private setting, but it was though the lively social atmosphere of the bar made their own party invisible.

Goh felt a little annoyed that Gary hadn't even given him and Ash time to change. Not that the latter cared, but they still wore their workout T-Shirts and joggers. Meanwhile, everyone else seemed dressed for a night out. Even Brock, who had brought a spare set of clothes with him to the gym, had changed and looked presentable.

"What, you trying to pick up girls or something?" Gary scoffed when Goh complained about his clothes.

"Well, I'm not trying to look like a loser," Goh shot back, muttering under his breath.

Gary rolled his eyes. "Ok, what does everyone want? I'll go order."

Brock asked for a glass of vermouth. Arven shrugged and decided on the house wine.

Goh and Ash exchanged glances.

Brock caught on to their looks and laughed. "The drinking age is 18 here. You can try something, if you want. But, don't go overboard." The doctor winked.

Goh attempted to appear nonchalant but was clearly interested in the idea. He leaned back against the booth. His effort to seem indifferent did little to mask his eagerness, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. He fumbled slightly with his response, finally settling on a familiar choice. "I guess I'll just have a, uh, beer."

Gary just looked at him. "Draft or bottle?"

"Er, um."

Gary waved away the question. "Forget it. I'll get you both drafts of some very light beer…"

As he and Brock headed off to order the drinks, Brock chuckling at the young trainers' reactions, the atmosphere in the booth shifted. Goh settled back into his seat, excited and curious. Ash, meanwhile, appeared tired and pensive, his gaze distant. Arven was visibly on edge. He tapped the table rhythmically, his unease tangible. The botanist's mind was clearly preoccupied with recent developments, his thoughts clouded by worry and apprehension.

"Are you sure about this?" Arven grumbled, and his words did catch Ash's attention, breaking the young champion's reverie.

Ash nodded firmly once more. "Look," he sighed, running a hand through his hatless hair. He had left it in the room before working out, Ash realized, and shrugged off the naked feeling he felt without it. "Clavell honestly doesn't seem to know much. Even he and Jacq are trying to figure out what to do with Koraidon. We need all the help we can get at this point, and it seems like Gary knows things we don't. We should at least hear him out."

Arven sighed heavily, but acknowledged the sense in Ash's words. He couldn't deny that the young champion had good instincts…well, when it came to things like this. Apparently such skills didn't transfer over to women…

Gary and Brock returned to the table, balancing an array of drinks and plates of tapas. The small dishes were a colorful and aromatic assortment of local Paldean specialties, each plate artfully arranged. They set the drinks and food down amidst the eager looks of their companions.

Gary, taking a confident sip of his gin and tonic, savored the crisp, refreshing taste with a satisfied sigh. He then turned his attention to the matter at hand. "Alright, so. Where should we begin?" He set down his drink, his expression turning serious. "Why don't you all tell me what you know about Koraidon?"

"Sure," Ash responded with a nod, his demeanor indicating the gravity of the topic. He then proceeded to summarize their knowledge and experiences regarding Paradox Pokémon, Professor Turo, and his encounter with Koraidon, as well as the mysterious Miraidon.

Ash explained that Paradox Pokémon were a recent phenomenon in the Paldea region, with unknown origins and peculiar characteristics that differed from typical Pokémon. He detailed how he first encountered Koraidon, describing the Pokémon's unique appearance and abilities, emphasizing its connection to Area Zero.

Brock then took over a bit, explaining how Professor Turo used to work at the Academy, but grew obsessed with his work and how his research into Paradox Pokémon had led to some alarming developments.

Lastly, Ash shared the details of his encounter with Miraidon, another Paradox Pokémon with extraordinary powers. He described the intense battle and the mysterious nature of Miraidon, highlighting the significance of the encounter in understanding the broader implications of Paradox Pokémon in Paldea.

Gary absorbed every detail, his analytical mind working to piece together the information and form a clearer picture of the situation. Goh occasionally chimed in, reminding Ash and Gary about the strangers he'd run into in the Southern Province, which was news to Arven and Brock.

"Someone was looking for Koraidon then?!" Arven nearly fell out of his seat. "Why on earth didn't you tell Clavell?! Arceus!"

Goh shot the botanist an annoyed look. "I don't know for sure if that's what they were after! They said something about a powerful pokemon and a cave of some kind. A Terastal cave?"

"Either way, I can tell you that someone else is pulling the strings," Gary's voice was serious and terse. "Professor Turo is definitely not doing this by himself. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if someone's threatening him into all of this."

The suggestion made Arven go pale. "W-What?"

Gary cast Arven a long stare. "And Turo is your father, huh? Got Daddy issues? Is that why you can't tell us anything about him?"

"Screw you," Arven snorted, but his voice was shaky and half-hearted.

Brock motioned for the two to settle down and Gary nodded a terse apology. "Okay, well, I'm just trying to help. Really. I'm trying to find out who's really behind all of this."

"And how are you trying to do that?" Arven gave the researcher a skeptical look.

It was Gary's turn to explain his side of the story. He began by revealing his recent meeting with Larry and what the Medali gym leader thought about Professor Turo and Area Zero. As best he could, the young researcher explained how Larry believed there was large amounts of money somehow funding unauthorized research in the crater. Gary then went on to explain how he had adopted the guise of a "tradesman of sorts" to infiltrate the upper echelons of Paldean society. This disguise was part of a larger plan to gather information from the inside.

Gary also detailed how, after the luncheon, his primary objective was to investigate Eduardo Navarro and Tera Industries, a powerful and influential company in Paldea known for being the largest distributor of Tera Orbs and for its significant role in harvesting Tera Jewels from the enigmatic Area Zero. His suspicions were that the company might be involved in activities extending beyond their public operations. To blend in and gain access to the necessary circles, Gary was leveraging his new identity to establish connections with key figures in the region.

As Gary shared his plans and findings, the group listened with rapt attention, understanding the risks and complexities of his mission. The seriousness of Gary's mission added another layer to the unfolding events in Paldea, highlighting the intricate web of intrigue and mystery that they were all now a part of.

"And of course there are some rumors that some, well, that a mysterious cult of some sort is behind all of this," Gary's voice turned into a nearly inaudible whisper. His face looked grave and anxious, stark contrast to the lively scene around them.

Arven was the only one to understand. His eyes went wide. "They aren't real…"

"The Explorers," Gary finished, shooting Arven a glare to quiet down. "You know about them?"

"Only that they're just some, uh, conspiracy…" Arven when pale, his leg shook under the table. "But we really shouldn't talk about them here…"

Gary nodded his agreement and turned to the others. "So you see, we need to know who's actually behind all of this. If it's Turo, okay. But how do we find him and stop him? But if it's someone or something else…?"

Ash and the others nodded in understanding. No one besides Gary had even touched their drinks.

"So what's your plan?" Ash asked, strangely focused.

Gary sighed and ran his hands through his auburn hair. "I'm currently trying to work my way into Eduardo Navarro's inner circle. In that circle is Mesagoza's mayor, Diego García. He's hoping to run for governor in the next election…and I think he wants Navarro's support."

"And how are you getting close to this Navarro guy?" It was Brock who asked, finally taking a sip of his vermouth.

"Well first, I feel like I should slip into the mayor's inner circle. Besides inflating the guy's ego, I'm, uh, posing as a bounty hunter," Gary winced, hating how that sounded, "Larry has a feeling that all these guys want a claim on Area Zero, because they're after Pokémon like Koraidon. There seems to be some really shady shit going on, and when I was around those guys, it definitely felt like a contest of 'mine is bigger than yours,' if you know what I mean."

Goh and Ash certainly didn't.

"A contest of power," Brock clarified and the two younger men understood that.

"So, my plan is to eventually get García to understand that if he wants something from Navarro, or perhaps a Paradox Pokémon himself, he can use me as leverage," Gary smirked, "But I'll need to show 'em how strong I am. Bring back the old team and do some posturing. I'm going to make it clear that I don't do 'small jobs.' It's Area Zero or bust. I'm not trying to actually capture any innocent Pokémon. But if I can get Navarro, who has real access to the Crater, to hire me to go after, well, Miraidon or Koraidon, then…"

"Then you can pretend to go on a job while really seeing what's going on in there," Ash nodded, understanding.

Arven shifted uneasily, but he did manage a small sip of his wine. "You can also use information to your advantage. The fact that now you know about Koraidon, Miraidon, and Paradox Pokémon in general…well, that might be helpful in convincing them of what you claim to do…"

"But you'll have to be careful," Brock warned, not liking the idea one bit, "This all sounds risky and dangerous. Maybe we should involve Officer Jenny."

"Not yet—there's still no proof of anything illegal going on," Gary shook his head solemnly. "Look, I'm just trying to work the social circle for now, which is a pain. But I'll be seeing García—and hopefully Navarro—again at some Showcase everyone is talking about on Friday."

Ash, who had finally decided to try his beer, did so just as Gary had begun speaking again. He wasn't sure what made him spit his drink across the table: how disgusting it was or what Gary had said.

"Oh come on!" Gary growled, looking down at his wet shirt. "Are you serious!? This is real Caterpie silk!"

"Okay, beer is disgusting," Ash winced and made a face, baring his teeth, "can I just get some juice or something?"

"Please don't," Gary growled, taking a bunch of napkins to try and dab at his shirt.

Meanwhile, Goh downed his draft in three gulps and gave a heavy, contented sigh. "Hey, can I get another?"

"Arceus," Arven muttered and put his face in his hands.

Brock sighed and clapped Goh in the shoulder, "You're sticking with water the rest of the night."

Goh pouted.

"So why are you going to this Showcase?" Ash asked mildly, trying to sound not as tense as he felt.

Gary looked up from his useless work. "Because García invited me to sit with him in his box?" Gary then proceeded to pull something out of his pocket. Uncrumpling it, Ash saw it was the advertisement with Serena's picture.

"Hey! Give me that!" Ash suddenly reached over the table and snatched the ad from Gary's very surprised hands. "Why do you have this?" Ash exclaimed, looking actually frustrated as his eyes went back and forth between Serena's smiling face and Gary's supremely irritated expression.

"So I can remember where and when this thing is! Now give that back!" Gary tried to reclaim the paper, but Ash shifted it away, "The box number is on the back! And you would not believe the perverted crap I had to listen to to get that."

Ash felt a ringing in his ears.

"What's his problem?" Gary—jabbing his thumb towards Ash—turned to Brock as though the Pokémon doctor were the source of all reason here.

Brock took a large sip of his drink.

"Oh, Ash knows that girl," Goh shrugged, a glaze of his eyes, and he reached to drag Ash's beer in front of him. "Acts all weird around her."

Gary's eye twitched. "You?" The researcher then managed to snatch the advertisement back. He studied the picture of Serena for a moment before then holding it so that they could all see the girl. Gary pointed to her face. "You know her? Like…personally?"

"They traveled together in Kalos or something," Arven waved off the entire situation. He knew where this was going.

Gary looked between Ash and the ad. The ad and Ash. And then he started laughing really really hard. Hytserically even.

"That was my reaction!" Brock grinned and joined Gary in their uproarious amusement.

"Okay, I'm getting tired of this," Ash began to glare, "I really don't see what's so funny."

"Sorry, I just—I mean, she's really hot," Gary was wiping tears from his eyes. "Like, I know you like to travel with good-looking girls and all, but she's…" Gary whistled, clearly very impressed.

"Don't talk about her like that! What the heck is wrong with you?" Ash felt a strange, new anger begin to take hold of him. His eyes flashed and his fists clenched under the table.

Arven really wanted to disappear. Pikachu and Grookey somehow did.

"Geez, did I hit a nerve there, Ashy-boy?" Gary snorted and shook his head incredulously. He stopped short, his eyes going wide with shock. "Don't tell me you're like…actually involved with her?! That would be rich. The day you start getting laid—by a model, might I add—Ashy-boy, is the day my grandfather becomes a world-renowned poet."

Brock and Gary were dying. Brock's fist hit the table numerous times while tears streamed down his face.

"What are you even talking about?!" Ash thought he might actually break something. He had no idea what Gary meant but he knew it was disrespectful. "She's one of my best friends, and I'm just not going to let anyone talk about her like that!"

Brock nearly choked on his drink, but he shook his head at Gary, warning him to stop. Then, he turned back to the young champion. "Ash," the Pokemon doctor's face then grew dead serious. "So what did you do?"

Ash stopped a bit short by Brock's sudden change in temperament. "What do you mean?"

Brock, in an uncharacteristic moment of reckless abandonment, clutched Ash by the shirt with two hands. He brought the young champion really really really close to his face. Uncomfortably close.

"How did you get this girl to fall for you by literally just breathing?" Brock's words were slow and very deliberately chosen. His question, earnest and utterly void of sarcasm.

"I…" for a moment Ash didn't seem to comprehend. "What are you saying…?"

Goh watched the unfolding scene through what seemed like a very very small set of binoculars he was holding backwards. Ash's empty beer glass joined his growing collection.

"That girl is smitten with you, Ash," Brock continued, his tone so grave one would have thought he was giving bad news to a patient. "Smitten like a Litten."

"Is she really?" Gary's eyes went wide and a devilish grin spread across his face, his tone oscillating between disbelief and a mischievous delight. "This is amazing. Actually amazing."

Goh hiccupped, his beer glasses lined up like trophies of the evening's revelations. Somehow, he had gotten a third…

Ash felt a tumult of emotions swirling within him. He felt something warm ignite within him—an exhilarating rush—but it was quickly doused by a sense of foreboding that settled heavily in his stomach. "T-that's not true," he protested weakly, his rapid heartbeat and dizziness betraying his fluster.

Arven?" Ash turned to the botanist as though he were reaching for a life raft.

Arven continued to try desperately to melt into the wall. Then he decided to just pretend he was a ghost. Neither of these methods seemed to work and so, utterly depressed that he had to be a part of any of this, he mumbled. "She, er, seems quite fond of you," Arven cleared his throat and decided to, at the very least, enjoy the tapas.

Ash's protest came out more feeble than he intended, his voice lacking the conviction he was desperately trying to convey. "You guys have this all wrong!" he insisted, but even as the words left his lips, they rang hollow, even to his own ears. His denial, rather than assertive, sounded like a weak attempt to convince himself more than his friends.

Brock clucked his tongue and shook his head after taking another sip of his fortified wine. "Not this time, buddy. I know I can be a little over the top when it comes to el romántico , but I can pick up a hint or two…despite seldom having been on the receiving end of such, uh, hints."

As Ash sat there, his fingers massaged his eyelids in fatigue. The notion of Serena harboring deeper feelings for him sent his mind into a whirlwind of confusion. He had always seen their relationship as a deep friendship, a bond made through shared adventures and an understanding of evolving dreams. Of never giving up. The idea that there could be more, that Serena might see him in a different light, was…he didn't know what it was….

Ash groaned and threw his head back to rest on the wall. Pikachu climbed back up onto his lap and offered an encouraging wink which really didn't make Ash feel better. "Uh," Ash spoke slowly, still reeling. "I have to go talk to her."

Gary snorted, finishing his first drink with a satisfied sigh. "Incredible. I come bearing secret information on Paldea's scientific mysteries and shady elite and end up having to give you girl advice."

"I'm not asking for advice," Ash's eyes narrowed. Maybe Arven had been right and Gary's involvement was actually a very bad thing. He turned to the botanist, who sat at the edge of the booth. "Let me out, Arven. I gotta go find Serena."

It was only for the poor performers' sake that Arven actually decided to get involved. "You're not going to seek out a girl at midnight, Ash. That's just ridiculous. Just," Arven made a waving motion, "talk to her next time you see her."

"Arven's right," Brock began, returning to his more stoic demeanor, "Settle down and just process. First, ask yourself: How do you feel about her?"

"I…" Ash faltered, his mind a tangle of conflicting emotions and thoughts. Like he'd identified earlier, Ash knew something had shifted between Serena and him lately, a subtle change in the air whenever they were together. There was something about them—about her. He couldn't pretend the way he felt different when she focused on him, the way his heart raced a little faster when she touched him or when she smiled.

"She's very, uh," Ash stammered, feeling a blush creeping up his neck. He was struggling to articulate his feelings, to make sense of the newfound awareness of Serena's charm. The realization that he found her attractive was undeniable. It wasn't just a simple admiration anymore; it was something deeper, more personal, he realized. "She's really pretty," Ash managed to admit, but it took enormous effort for some reason. He wondered, though, if he only felt nervous because of the way she looked and that idea sort of depressed him.

"Um, yea, she is," Goh hiccupped, apparently deciding he was going to contribute at least something to the conversation.

Ash whirled on him and felt another wave of irritation course through his body. Suddenly, the idea of discussing these feelings made him visibly uncomfortable. He wasn't ready to dissect his emotions in front of everyone. He preferred the idea of talking to Serena directly, of understanding, or at least confirming, what she felt first and foremost.

"Anyone with eyes can see that she's h—er," Gary changed courses upon seeing a dark flash pass through Ash's stare. He decided to tread with a more diplomatic course. "Sorry, I mean, yes. She is a very beautiful woman, Ash, we can all see that. But I'm proud of you for admitting as much. That must have been really hard for you."

Ok, so Gary's tone came out a bit more patronizing than he'd meant it to be. But the researcher shrugged.

Ash scoffed, but stopped short. He suddenly remembered the kiss. He had almost forgotten…almost. It was as if he'd blocked it out of his mind for some reason. As if remembering it had…scared him? No, but that couldn't be right. Since when was he really scared of anything?

That kiss—at the time—hadn't really been that big of a deal to him, right? He had thought it was really sweet and kind, and he had liked it. Yeah, he definitely remembered liking it. He had liked feeling Serena that close to him; feeling her lips on his; feeling her pull away—smiling all sweetly and determined and confident.

Ash had liked it. He really had. But just as much as he had liked it, the kiss had confused him. And soon, he had found himself choosing to forget it even happened. And he had been successful for the most part, until seeing Serena again at the Welcome Ceremony.

Seeing her then was like having her lips right back on his.

Absently, Ash scratched his chin as he mused, almost unthinkingly, "She did kiss me. When we left Kalos."

It was Gary's turn to spit up his drink. "What? She kissed you and you're wondering if she likes you? Okay, I knew you were dense but come on!"

"It was like four years ago now!" Ash shot back, hearing the blood pumping in his ears. He had not meant to mention the kiss aloud. It spilled out. "S-she probably doesn't feel the same way anymore."

And Ash realized that that was the thought that scared him. But why?

Brock just chuckled. He could only look at Ash out of the corner of his dark eyes and smile. "Smitten."

Soon enough, Gary grew bored—or maybe annoyed—by the conversation and moved on. "Okay, well. Anyway, back to more important things…let's make this an official meeting place," he announced, gesturing to the lively bar that clearly appeared to pay them no attention. "Once a week we meet here to share intel. Tuesdays. 11 pm. If we have to meet sooner then we say so. Either way, I'll let you know if I learn anything Friday night."

"We'll be there," Ash replied automatically, gesturing to a very dazed Goh and a very surprised Arven. "At the Showcase that is. We told Serena we'd go. Along with some other friends."

Gary rubbed his face. "Ok, but please stay away from me or pretend not to know me. And that's for your sake. I don't want your name getting caught up in any scandals."

Ash nodded.

The evening wound down with a sense of partially fulfilled resolution. Most of the food remained untouched on the table, however, the young men were either too preoccupied or too tired to eat. Brock and Ash found themselves having to carry Goh back to the dorms, each taking one of his arms and supporting him as they exited the tapas bar. The cool night air did little to clear the heaviness that seemed to hang over Ash.

As they made their way back, Ash's thoughts were tumultuous, swirling with the discussions of the evening. His friends' observations about Serena echoed in his mind, mingling with his own confused feelings. He replayed the moment Serena had run up the escalator, her young face inches from him, her lips brushing against his, her smile as she pulled away…it all flooded back to him, igniting a cascade of feeling he couldn't quite name and didn't very much enjoy at that moment.

Even as he settled into bed, with Pikachu curled up at his side, Ash found sleep elusive. The image of Serena, the sound of her voice, and the warmth of her presence haunted his thoughts. Her kiss, soft and fleeting, played over and over in his mind, a sweet torment that kept him awake long into the night.

xxxxx

The Blitz tryouts were in the morning, much to Ash and Goh's misfortune.

Nemona had practically dragged the two trainers out of their dorm rooms, her enthusiastic ushering had them traveling across campus to the locker rooms by the practice fields dedicated to Paldea's popular sport. Aliquis, in stark contrast to Nemona's fervor, was more patient helping Ash and Goh gear up for the occasion.

The blue-haired trainer's demeanor was calm and collected as he handed out the necessary equipment to the groggy boys. He provided them with padded practice jerseys that clung snugly to their frames, complemented by riding pants that allowed for flexibility and movement and riding boots that were secured up to the knees. The extra pads, fitted around their knees and elbows, were a bit cumbersome at first, but necessary for the contact sport.

"And your helmets,"Aliquis, with a hint of exasperation in his sigh, shoved two scarlet helmets into the chests of Ash and Goh. The helmets were rounded in shape with a hard, durable exterior designed to absorb impact. The front had a reinforced visor area to block the sun while maintaining a wide field of vision; meanwhile, the chin strap was adjustable, allowing for a secure fit that wouldn't shift or slide during the game.

Upon receiving his helmet, Goh put it on backward.

"Quick question," Ash yawned, shaking his head as though to clear the fog from his brain. Pikachu and Grookey scampered around the locker room, sniffing at the unused pads and jerseys. "How does this game even work?"

"You'll see," Aliquis reached into his locker and procured half a churro and a small cup of thick chocolate he'd saved from the night before. A bit unwillingly, he slapped the food into Goh's slow reacting hand. "For the hangover." He then clapped the young man on the shoulders.

The locker room itself was a hive of activity, resonating with the sounds of zippers, velcro straps, and the muffled thumps of pads being adjusted. Young men of various builds and backgrounds shuffled around, each focused on their preparations, their expressions a meld of determination and excitement.

Amidst the crowd, Brutus stood out with his striking silver hair and piercing grey eyes. He exuded an air of confidence and natural athleticism, clearly comfortable in the Blitz attire. He was surrounded by a clique of similarly confident, well-off young men all dripping with an unmistakable aura of arrogance. Their gear looked a bit more polished than the rest. They chatted amongst themselves, their laughter carrying over the locker room din, their posture relaxed yet poised, as if they were already assured of their places on the team.

Soon enough, the Galarian boy spotted Ash, a smirk on his lips. "Ash Ketchum trying out Blitz. Now that's rich," Brutus's smirk grew and he motioned for his posse to appraise the young champion—who did look a bit like he'd been Mud Slapped by a Marshtomp. "Say, when you brought out that Charcadet during the exhibitions yesterday, I figured you were either a jokester or just stupid. I just wanted to let you know that I decided on the latter."

Ash felt his eye twitch. He was so not in the mood for this. Regardless, he managed to remain composed, his voice sounded detached even to himself. "What is your problem, man? Do you want to battle or something? Because I'll take you any time, any place. It's not a problem."

Brutus just laughed low and cold. "Oh, I'll battle you at some point, don't you worry. But unlike you, I have a variety of skill sets. And I'll beat you in all of them first," He then ruffled Ash's hair, placed his hands in his pockets, and walked away—his gang following.

"There's always some jerk," Goh groaned, rubbing his head and avoiding the light like a Zubat.

Ash sighed. Really, the whole Brutus guy just seemed petty, so he didn't think too much about it. Something else held dominion over his mind—thoughts about Serena, the anticipation of seeing her next—which he realized would be tomorrow…unless he went out looking for her. However, Ash didn't really think he'd be up to that after today….

"Alright, let's go, guys!" Aliquis clapped them again on the shoulders, hauling them up and urging Ash and Goh off the locker room bench and onto the field.

The field stretched out before them, a sprawling oblong expanse of immaculately kept grass that shimmered under the bright sunlight. It was an impressive sight, with three goalposts at either end of the field. These posts, tall and slender, rose about twelve feet off the ground, each equipped with a ring. There were two rings slightly lower to the ground, and one ring—slightly smaller in circumference—erected between the other two. The field was also marked by boundary lines, and a halfway line and center circle.

Saddled and ready for action, a group of Cyclizars grazed calmly on the lush pastures inside a white ring at center field. Their unique lizard-like appearance, coupled with their equine grace, made them a captivating sight. Each Cyclizar, with its sleek body and vibrant scales, seemed to exude a sense of readiness and eagerness, as if they too were anticipating the thrill of the game.

Nemona was busy tending to some of the Pokémon, her movements practiced and gentle. She spoke softly to the creatures, her hands moving expertly as she checked their saddles and reins. Beside her was a girl with striking red hair, her movements mirroring Nemona's as she too attended to the Cyclizars. Together, they worked in unison, ensuring that each mount was in perfect condition for the tryouts.

The field itself was alive with activity. Prospective players milled about, picking up large oval leather balls to practice some throws, others discussing strategies, and a few simply taking in the scene. The air buzzed with the sounds of conversation, laughter, and the occasional huff or snort from the Cyclizars.

"Hey guys!" Nemona called out cheerfully, her energy palpable even from a distance. Dressed in her Blitz gear, her black hair shone under the morning sun, adding a lively contrast to the protective outfit. She waved at the three boys, her posture exuding confidence and excitement. She then looked to Pikachu and Grookey, who followed their respective trainers, "Oh! Pokémon partners can watch from the stands," Nemona pointed cheerily towards the silver bleachers off to the side of the field. Pawmo, along with other friendly familiars, had already settled in. "No other Pokémon except Cyclizar allowed during Blitz! You'll see!"

Pikachu and Grookey scurried off, excited to meet new friends.

Laura, the red-haired girl standing beside Nemona, offered a hurried nod to the boys. Her eyes briefly swept over Ash, doing a double-take that suggested recognition, and a smile quickly blossomed on her face. "We're excited to see you all in action," she said with a wink, her voice carrying a hint of flirtatious challenge. In one fluid motion, she swung herself up onto one of the Cyclizar. Her movements were practiced and graceful, showcasing her familiarity and skill with the Pokémon.

Nemona, not to be outdone, also mounted her Cyclizar with ease. She guided her Pokémon toward the group of eager young men and women assembled for the tryouts. Her voice carried clearly as she began to introduce herself, Laura, and Aliquis, the latter having decided to stay on foot to divvy up the eager group into groups.

"Good morning!" Nemona's voice carried clearly as she began, "I'm Nemona, captain of the Blitz team here at Scarlet Academy! Aliquis and Laura are our co-captains, and we will be running the tryouts for the next couple days! Roster will be posted at the end of the day Friday. Season starts Monday. We do not take quitters or half-committers so if you can't make practices between 3-6 Monday through Thursday, leave now. Please. Do us all the favor."

She waited, a wide grin on her face as though she had just offered everyone a cold drink rather than threatened anyone who was on the fence to leave.

Goh almost did. Ash pulled him back.

"Great!" She chirped. "Laura will now explain the rules!"

The rules were simple. Somewhat.

During play there were always three balls on the field. The Blitz balls were the large, leather oval objects that could be thrown, kicked, slapped by a Cyclizar tail—whatever method was acceptable— between players in whichever direction. The point was essentially, while riding Cyclizar, to get the balls to the hoops belonging to the opposing team at the opposite end of the field. The bottom hoops were worth three points. The smaller hoop on top was worth five. If a team manages to get two balls into the hoops at the same time, the points awarded double. However, if a team manages to get all three balls into the three respective hoops at the same time, it is called Blitz and that team automatically wins the round. A Blitz match ends after a team has won the best of four 15-minute rounds. If no team gets a Blitz during the allotted time, then the team with the most points at the end of the quarter wins. If both teams win two rounds, then there is a ten-minute fifth round.

"Each Cyclizar here is trained specifically for this game—their main goal is to protect their riders," Laura continued, motioning to the excited Pokémon eager to play. "The Pokémon are taught four moves: Power Whip, Protect, Tackle, and Knock Off. These are the only four moves allowed during play. They can only be used when a player is either going after the ball, or when a player is trying to protect the ball, clear? And all attacks are directed towards Cyclizar or the ball—Cyclizar is trained to not attack human riders, so if you try out, you'll just be bucked off by a really angry Cyclizar…"

There were no objections, save a few chuckles from Brutus and his crew.

"But if you're holding the ball," Aliquis cut in, motioning for a Blitz ball from one of the players, who passed it to him. The blue-haired trainer caught the object easily with one hand. "You are at risk for some contact, so the proper way to hold on to the ball is like this," Aliquis demonstrated, tucking the ball into the space between one of his arms and his rib cage. With the other hand, he pretended to hold on to imaginary reins. "Always hold on to your Cyclizar, even when you have the ball or you'll likely be thrown off by an oncoming attack from an opposing player. If you don't want to get hit, pass the ball." Here, Aliquis tossed the Blitz ball back. "If you hit a player who's gotten rid of the ball, it's a 'Late-Hit' penalty, and you have to sit out of the game for one minute of play and your team can't make a substitution."

From there, Aliquis further broke up the crowd of tryouts into roughly three groups of ten—ten being the number of people on the field at a given time during a match. Each squad was given a light colored vest to put over their jerseys. It was decided that Aliquis would lead The Red Squad, which Ash and Goh had been assigned to, Nemona would take The Blue Squad, and Laura would take The Green Squad.

"Alright, let's get started! First half of the day we will be practicing skills. After lunch, we learn about positions and actual gameplay. Tomorrow—" she clapped her hands and a mischievous glint caught her eye, "We scrimmage!"

xxxxx

Ash soon realized that Blitz was, in fact, intensely physical. Not in the way Brock had made it sound, however. But holding on to Cyclizar and throwing the ball—well, throwing it far—required some crazy arm strength he didn't quite have yet. Also, riding the Pokémon for a long time made his core ache and his legs sore. And his back was killing him. He was sure he'd be feeling muscles he didn't even know he had by the end of this.

Despite the physical demands, Ash found himself having a blast. The exhilaration of riding the Cyclizar, feeling the wind rush past him as he soared across the field, was amazing. He relished the challenge of accurately throwing the ball into the hoops and the teamwork and strategy involved in the game.

So far, the practice session had focused primarily on riding and handling the ball. Ash noticed that passing techniques varied among the players. Some showcased their strength and skill by hurling the ball directly to their teammates, while others employed a different tactic, tossing the ball upwards for the Cyclizar to hit with its tail. This latter method sent the ball flying across the field, though it lacked precision.

Ash learned about the different roles within the game. The Guard was responsible for blocking attempts to score, standing as the last line of defense before the hoops. Defensive players concentrated on maintaining proper spacing and intercepting opposing players to disrupt their scoring opportunities. In contrast, offensive players focused on passing strategies and executing plays designed to outmaneuver the defense.

Aliquis introduced them to key terms used during gameplay. For instance, the command "Rush" signaled certain players to charge towards the hoops, anticipating a pass, while "Fallback" indicated a need to retreat and regroup behind the center field. Ash found these tactical elements intriguing, adding a layer of complexity to the sport that he appreciated.

It was fascinating, but challenging. Ash could tell Goh loved it too, having a pretty good arm despite his not so great attempts at throwing pokeballs sometimes. The two practiced riding up and down part of the field, tossing a Blitz ball back and forth in numerous ways.

Just as they were getting the hang of it, Aliquis decided to introduce the next level of the game.

"Okay, let's practice now using Cyclizar's moves," the blue-haired trainer announced to the Red Squad, a little smirk on his face. "Remember, you can only use a move to get the ball or to protect the ball. Now, you can prepare an attack to anticipate a pass being thrown or a shot being made, but if you hit someone before they get the ball—it's a penalty. If you attack someone after they've gotten rid of the ball, that's also a penalty. Just be careful. The refs get pretty touchy."

To demonstrate, Aliquis tossed the ball to an unexpected blonde youth, who managed to catch it—rising from his saddle just slightly to reach. But as soon as the kid's fingers grazed the ball, Aliquis had his Cyclizar use Tackle on the blonde-haired trainer's Pokémon, sending the unfortunate boy—who Ash remembered was named Rudolfo—flying from his saddle as he had not been holding on to the reins.

"Oooo," A collective wince rippled through the onlookers, including Ash and Goh, as they watched Rudolfo's fall. Dusting himself off, Rudolfo quickly reassured everyone, "I'm good," despite his slightly slurred words and evident daze.

Aliquis then skillfully maneuvered his Cyclizar towards the ball. In a swift, elegant motion, he leaned out of his saddle and expertly flicked the ball up from the ground with his foot, catching it in his hands in one fluid movement. "And that's the easiest way to pick up a ball from the ground," he announced, settling back into his saddle, the ball now securely tucked under his arm.

Goh couldn't help but snort in disbelief. "Easy? That looks anything but easy," he remarked, his eyes sparkling with the thrill of the new challenge presented.

Aliquis then set up a series of drills to further hone their skills. The squad was divided into two lines, with the lead players taking turns rushing across the field while passing the ball between them. Aliquis demonstrated how he would either attempt to Tackle the players or intercept the ball. To evade being Tackled, he explained, players could utilize Protect to fend off an attack temporarily or buy time to find a teammate for a pass. Alternatively, players could simply pass the ball before being hit.

After showing how to aggressively pursue the ball, Aliquis switched roles, allowing others to take the center position as the 'Mankey-in-the-middle.'

"Remember, call off your attack or steer your Cyclizar away if your target no longer has the ball," Aliquis instructed. "Some attacks might be unavoidable, but that's for the referee to decide if the hit was too early or too late."

When it was Ash's turn, he teamed up with Rudolfo to exchange passes. Another participant, Milo, took the central role, trying to snatch the ball. Ash and Rudolfo coordinated well, adeptly handling Milo's attempts to disrupt their play. Milo tried using Power Whip to slice the ball mid-air and Knock Off to snatch it directly from Ash's grasp. However, when it came to a direct confrontation, Ash commanded his Cyclizar to hold its ground with Tackle, clashing with Milo's Pokémon. The two Cyclizars locked shoulders, grinding against each other as Ash deftly maneuvered his mount to power through the remaining stretch of the field.

"Good!" Aliquis clapped, "Way to hold onto the ball! Alright, Ash, you're in the middle!"

Ash's turn to steal the ball. Goh and a black-haired girl Ash didn't recognize were to pass the ball back and forth. They began and Ash ran alongside them. He tried commanding Cyclizar to use Power Whip to trip up Goh's Cyclizar while Goh clung to the ball, but Goh still managed to get rid of the object before his Cyclizar lost its footing. Goh managed to hang on, avoiding being thrown off in the sudden stop. The girl caught the ball, and Ash attempted a Tackle, but her Cyclizar managed to pull off a Protect just before Ash's Pokémon could manage the move. She made it across the field.

Ash was grinning wildly with the rush. "Cool."

xxxxx

After a fulfilling lunch, the tiredness and dirt from the morning's exertions still clung to Ash, Goh, and the others, but it did little to dampen their excitement for the next phase of the tryouts. The afternoon was dedicated to walking through actual gameplay scenarios, a crucial part of understanding how Blitz was played in a real match.

Nemona, Aliquis, and Laura, each demonstrating a keen eye for strategy and player abilities, took turns organizing their respective squads on the field. They assigned positions based on the players' strengths they had observed during the skills segment of the practice. This approach ensured that everyone was placed in a role that best suited their capabilities and maximized the team's overall effectiveness.

Ash and Goh, both demonstrating agility and a knack for quick decision-making, were assigned to Midfield offensive positions. In these roles, they were responsible for advancing the ball up the field and ensuring it reached the Strikers—the players tasked with shooting the ball into the hoops. Their position required a blend of offensive maneuvering and strategic passing, balancing the need to push forward while also being ready to support the Strikers in scoring opportunities. They were also expected to fallback and help the defenders if the other team seemed to be on the attack.

"Alright, the game starts with the three balls in the center of the pitch," Nemona was saying, her voice loud enough to echo through the field. "Of course, the pitch isn't always a field—it can be sand or clay, or even water!—but we'll get to that later…Anyway, as I was saying," she cleared her throat and tried to remember, "Oh, yea—when the whistle blows, the two Strikers from either team battle it out for the balls and soon enough, we have a full on head-to-head. The game is way more fast-paced than you think. Remember, you have three balls on the field. Not just one."

Nemona leaned towards Aliquis, her expression focused. She spoke in a low tone, sharing a strategy or insight that only the two of them were privy to. Aliquis listened intently, nodding in understanding.

After their brief discussion, Aliquis turned to address the players with a confident and clear voice. "Okay, we're going to play out just the opening of a match real quick," he announced, his eyes scanning the assembled squads. "Red Squad and Blue Squad, form up like we showed you."

The two practice squads, each mounted on their Cyclizars, took to the field with a sense of determination and anticipation. The Red and Blue teams were a vibrant contrast against the green of the pitch, with the players adjusting their positions and preparing for the opening scenario of the match.

Ash scanned the field, his gaze inevitably drawn to Brutus and his group, who dominated the composition of the Blue Squad. Brutus, the prominent figure among them, was positioned strategically as a Striker. His focus was laser-sharp, and it was clear that his attention was particularly fixed on Ash, an unspoken challenge evident in his intense stare.

On the Red Squad, the roles of Strikers were taken by Gabriella, the black-haired girl Goh had partnered with earlier, and Rudolfo. Both exhibited a confident poise, ready to dash forward and seize the Blitz balls the moment the game commenced. Gabriella's dark hair fluttered slightly in the breeze, her eyes keenly surveying the field. Rudolfo, on the other hand, seemed to be brimming with nervous energy, his movements quick and eager as he waited for Laura to blow the practice whistle.

At the sound, Brutus and his fellow striker unleashed the full potential of their Cyclizars—the Pokémon took on a form Ash and never seen and accelerating to speeds that he didn't know was possible—and he remembered hearing Aliquis say that a Cyclizar will move as fast as its rider is confident. Well, Brutus's confidence was evident, and his Cyclizar responded in kind, zooming with a swiftness that left many in awe. With practiced ease, Brutus scooped up one of the balls from the ground, seamlessly kicking another to his teammate and using his Cyclizar's tail to whip the third ball back towards a Midfielder.

Meanwhile, Gabriella and Rudolfo, without time to even blink, commanded their Cyclizars to aggressively rush at the Strikers with Tackles, aiming to disrupt the Blue Squad's momentum.

In the midst of this fervent play, Brutus urged his Cyclizar to leap over an incoming attack, propelling them toward the hoops with incredible speed. Watching this, Ash's instincts kicked in, and he spurred his Cyclizar to give chase. "Power Whip, Cyclizar!" Ash called out, hoping to employ the same maneuver he had used against Goh to trip Brutus.

However, as Ash and his Cyclizar gained ground, focused on intercepting Brutus, they were suddenly met with an unexpected obstacle. A member of the Blue team, strategically positioned, blocked Ash's path, effectively cutting off his pursuit of Brutus. The sudden appearance of this player caught Ash off guard, resulting in a hard thump and a crash as Ash's Cyclizar collided with the opposing team's blocker.

Brutus just laughed, easily outmaneuvering the remaining defenses to score.

Meanwhile, Ash, having been thrown from his saddle, hit the grass with a thud. For a moment, he lay there, catching his breath, the impact having knocked the wind out of him. Determined, he pushed himself up to his feet, albeit with a stagger. His voice echoed with frustration as he called out, "H-Hey! Wasn't that an illegal hit!? I wasn't even carrying the ball!"

Nemona, who had ridden up to the scene to ensure everyone was okay, cringed. "Actually, that was a legal block. The blocking Cyclizar had all its feet firmly planted on the ground. I guess we forgot to mention that you can do that," she mused, scratching her chin and looking up at the sky as if in sudden thought.

Ash just groaned, getting back onto his Cyclizar, swiping at the dirt caked onto his jersey. Goh and Aliquis rode up to check up on the young champion.

"Don't worry about him," Aliquis grumbled, clearly not enjoying Brutus's gloating any more than Ash, "he's one of the best Strikers in the league. Grew up being able to ride all kinds of Pokémon." Aliquis shrugged, "but he's still part of the reason we lost to Violet Academy last year in the semi-finals. He sucks at being a team player."

"Didn't notice," Goh intoned, glaring at the silver-haired boy, who was now riding flawlessly back to his starting position.

"Coach will still put him on the team anyway," Aliquis sighed, tutting to his Cyclizar to turn face and head back to center field.

Ash stretched out his sore neck. "Who is the coach anyway?"

"Professor Saguaro," Aliquis replied, "He was like, an all-time Blitz champion player when he played for the Academy back in the day. He went on to play in the Pro League. Across most of the region, his name is just as recognizable as Geeta's—the Paldea League Champion aka La Primera . Anyway, he'll come out on the last day of tryouts and make up the roster after incorporating our input. Still doesn't mean he listens to us," Aliquis let out a slow breath as though mildly frustrated.

Ash, Goh, and Aliquis, feeling the toll of the intense session, made their way towards the bleachers for a well-deserved break. Their squad followed suit, each member showcasing varying degrees of exhaustion and exhilaration. Pikachu and Grookey, ever the supportive companions, scampered up to greet them, chirping and chattering in encouragement.

Ash dismounted his Cyclizar with a sense of gratitude, patting the Pokémon appreciatively for its efforts. He then reached for a water bottle, his movements reflecting the fatigue setting into his muscles. Deciding to take a moment for himself, Ash lay down on the grass, stretching out his body. He stared up at the clear afternoon sky, admiring the vast expanse of a calming blue. The serene hue seemed to mirror the depth and brightness of a gaze he still couldn't seem to dislodge from his thoughts.

---

I wanted to get to the first days of classes and showcase this chapter, but it already got too long. (46 pages…) So that had to get moved/spilled over to Chapter 9. I will say the next two chapters will definitely be the turning point for our two lovers. While we can't rush a good time; the pace of the story will pick up after Chapter 10—which sort of ends an arc and begins another.

The chapter being called "Blitz" is more of a double entendre. Just thought I'd address that before you all start PMing me. Speaking of Blitz, I imagine the sport to be a mix of polo/rugby/soccer. I am also trying to make it as straightforward as possible…I'm not here to create a super complicated game that sucks up all of my energy to the point I can't even concentrate on the ship. That being said, let me know if there is a gaping hole in my description of the game and I'll be sure to clarify some more rules in the upcoming chapters. But please don't come at me.

Next chapter: Thursday, January 18th.