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.

13. Chapter 13: The Koraidon Date

Hey guys! So, even though I'm still definitely in the midst of grad school, I was just so excited to write the chapter and got some down time to get ahead on grad school material. And then, I was stuck in a car for hours and this chapter just spilled out. It's pretty amour-fluff heavy…which is just what I needed right now given the busy season. Hope it lifts your spirits as well!

In other news, I have begun edits to other chapters-particularly to the moments between Ash and Serena in Chapter 10 and even earlier. Chapter 8 I edited some dialogue between Ash and Serena's interactions. More thoughts were 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, polishing the dynamic. Chapter 10, Ash now mentions the ribbon (this was something I had originally planned to incorporate but had forgotten at the time.) He was also given a little more introspections.

Alright, well, I would still not anticipate another chapter until after March 13th, but let me tell you that I am so excited to return :) In the meantime, enjoy this 70 page/30k long chapter. Feel free to take your time. I will continue to hop around and edit from time to time so keep on the lookout.

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Chapter 13: The Koraidon Date

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As the morning sun peeked over the horizon, casting a soft golden hue through the windows of the Pokémon Center, the gang found themselves roused from their sleep in a most unexpected manner.

Nemona, determined not to waste a single moment of the day, took it upon herself to ensure everyone was up and at 'em with the same level of urgency. Clanging pots together with a rhythm only she could understand, she paraded around their large room, her mission clear: to get everyone moving and back to the city early. Her motivations were purely academic; precious studying time was at stake, and Nemona was not one to fall behind.

Amidst this orchestrated chaos, Ash's response was immediate and filled with an infectious energy. Bolting upright, his voice rang out, "Alright, let's go!"

His enthusiasm was unmistakable, his movements swift as he juggled waking up with the anticipation of the day's objectives. The thought of Koraidon and the Herba Mystica had evidently ignited a spark within him, a fervor reflected in the spirited exchange of looks between him and Pikachu. This shared excitement motivated the rest, who, though initially sluggish, began to find their own rhythms in the wake of Nemona's relentless drive.

In the early morning light, Arven was already prepared for the day, his backpack securely fastened, as he began to fix breakfast—or leftovers, really—for the group. With practiced ease, he started brewing coffee, the rich aroma filling the air, while his Mabosstiff curiously sniffed around him. Despite a slightly nervous hint to his movements, Arven managed to maintain a rather stoic demeanor, even as a vial of the Herba Mystica warmed his pocket. He had taken a sample in the early morning hours before anyone had awakened.

Meanwhile, Brock took on the task of waking Goh, who emerged from sleep with a start. Rubbing his eyes and looking around in mild confusion, Goh's first thought was of his absent friend. "Where's Gary?" he asked through a yawn, the still-sleeping Grookey clinging to his hair.

Brock, arms crossed and nearly ready to depart, responded with a half-smile, "He left early. Had business in town."

Goh nodded, still drowsy, then swung his legs over the edge of the bunk bed, beginning his descent to start the day. Across the room, Ash caught a glimpse of Serena, noticing her subdued and quiet movements. He knew mornings weren't exactly her favorite, but she had always made it work whenever they traveled together. He smiled at that.

As the morning progressed, the group efficiently packed up and dressed, taking turns using the bathroom. They gathered at the table for a quick breakfast, where Arven, with a slight anxious frown betraying his composed exterior, shared his thoughts on handling the Herba Mystica.

"Okay, so I'm not sure that we should give Koraidon the Herba Mystica all at once," he began, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of their situation. "That's never been done before, well, because we've never had a specimen of this size. Who knows what the effects would be. I think it's best to monitor the dosage, giving it a little at a time."

Brock nodded thoughtfully, his gaze fixed on the plant that glowed with an other-worldly luminescence from its glass case on the table. "That's a good idea. The plant's properties—from what I've seen—seem pretty powerful," he concurred, his experience as a Pokémon doctor lending weight to his opinion. The team listened intently, aware of the significance of their decisions and the careful planning required for their next steps.

"Sounds like a plan, then," Ash stated, patting his stomach with a satisfied sigh. He felt like he'd eaten his weight in bread—his appetite returning to normal almost for the first time he'd come to Paldea. He then drummed the table with anticipation, "Well, I really don't want to keep Koraidon waiting. Where should we give him some of the Herba? We'll probably need to find some place off the main path."

"Yeah," Arven agreed, "let's strike out soon and we can figure out where to stop and administer the herb."

"And then," Nemona cut in, her finger raised in an erudite fashion in front of a pair of thin glasses on her nose, "we need to get back to study for Jacq's test!" She pounded her open palm with her fist. Pawmo did the same beside her, the Pokémon's fur covered in egg.

Goh, his mouth full of half-eaten bread, pointed to her with the bread knife, "Since when did you wear glasses?"

"I'm near-sighted, okay?" Nemona grumbled, stealing the utensil from Goh's hand to cut herself another piece of the warm loaf, "I just haven't put in my contacts."

"Well, I think they look cute on you," Serena smiled, wiping her hands delicately with her napkin. "You should wear them more often!"

"You think?" Nemona's eyes flashed playfully as she struck a pose in her chair, twirling her long black pony-tail. The girls both laughed.

With a unified sense of purpose, everyone hastened to conclude their breakfast, the shared decision to embark soon infusing their actions with efficiency. They quickly cleared the table, washing and drying the dishes before packing them neatly away. Leftovers were secured in containers, ensuring nothing was wasted, while personal belongings were gathered and stowed in their respective bags.

Their cleanup was thorough, leaving the space as welcoming as they had found it. With everything packed, they donned their bags or backpacks, making sure not to forget any essentials or personal items that had been laid out or used during their stay.

Exiting the Pokémon Center, the group felt the immediate shift from the cozy interior to the arid expanses of Area Three, again setting forth through the vast cliffs and deep valleys that showcased ancient layers of the earth.

Finding a secluded canyon pass off the main route didn't take the group long. Arven, with a sense of purpose, led them deep into the gulch, navigating nearly a kilometer in before deciding—after Nemona's insisting that they just "give that red dragon his pink salad already"—to stop.

"You are seriously something else," Arven grumbled, setting down his pack and digging out the Herba Mystica as well as a few other scientific instruments to extract the plant's essence.

Meanwhile, Ash scanned their surroundings for any signs of unexpected company. With a confident flick, he enlarged Koraidon's Pokéball, feeling Pikachu's light bounce off his shoulder as a prelude to the action. "Come on out, Koraidon!" Ash, filled with excitement, echoed slightly in the open space. He leaped, catching the sphere deftly as it returned, just as the grand figure of Koraidon materialized.

The Paradox Pokémon shook its body, the red scales rustling like leaves in a brisk wind, each scale catching the light and casting vibrant reflections. It let out a robust, joyous roar upon seeing Ash, a sound of pure happiness that filled the area. With a confident and gentle touch, the young champion reached out to pat Koraidon's snout, his actions both calming and quieting the mighty creature to prevent drawing any wandering eyes to their location.

Serena watched this exchange, her eyes wide with a mix of admiration and awe. The Pokémon, with its fierce and commanding presence, seemed nothing short of majestic. Yet, under Ash's care, Koraidon's demeanor was tranquil, even affectionate despite a natural ferocity that seemed to lay beneath the surface of its features. Serena smiled at Ash, her heart swelling with respect. To her, Ash had a remarkable gift, the ability to connect with any Pokémon and bring out its gentle side, always making the most formidable seem friendly.

Ash settled his hand at the nook of Koraidon's neck. Catching Serena's gaze, he flashed a wide grin. Turning to the scarlet Pokémon, he said, ""Hey, Koraidon! This is Serena! She helped us get the Herba Mystica—or, you're medicine, if you want to think of it that way." With an inviting gesture, he beckoned Serena closer, his hand outstretched, signaling her to join him beside the gentle giant. "Come say 'hi'! Koraidon's super nice!"

Serena's laugh, light and knowing, paralleled Ash's excitement and the slight irony of his reassurance. Really, she'd seen Ash interact with more dangerous Pokémon than she'd like to, and of course she'd had her own fair share of encounters by default. However, she took Ash's hand—not out of fear of the Pokémon, but more for the unspoken joy of just being near him. Ash drew her in, guiding her fingers to the coarse texture of Koraidon's scales.

"Hi, Koraidon, it's nice to meet you," Serena began, petting the large reptile and laughing again when Koraidon's breath issued forth from its snout, warming her face and blowing her hat off her hair. "I really do hope you feel better soon!"

The rest of the group watched with faces alight with excitement, eager to see the interaction. Koraidon glanced towards each of them, its expression softening into what seemed like a contented smirk.

Arven, focused on his task, announced, "I almost have the sample ready." He carefully extracted a glowing pink fluid from the Herba Mystica with a small syringe.

At the sound of Arven's voice, Koraidon's attention snapped to him, its eyes widening in anticipation at the sight of the glowing plant. In a burst of enthusiasm, it lunged forward, causing Serena to stumble back into Ash. The two tumbled to the ground as Ash called out, "Hey! Wait!"

Arven looked up in alarm, just in time to see the enormous Pokémon surging toward him, drawn by the luminescent herb.

This is where I die, Arven's mind raced as he tensed up, expecting the full impact of a tackle from Koraidon, the legendary, red lizard of immense power and size. However, instead of the feared collision, the botanist found himself merely shoved aside as Koraidon's attention was solely focused on the pink herb. With a swift movement that belied its massive form, Koraidon snatched up the Herba Mystica in its powerful jaws, swallowing the plant whole in one fluid motion.

"No!" Arven's protest was a mixture of disbelief and frustration as he scrambled back to his feet. His hands found their way to his hair, pulling at the strands in a gesture of sheer exasperation. "You weren't supposed to eat the whole thing! Joder…" He trailed off into a grumble of mixed languages, the shock rendering him momentarily speechless.

Brock, in the midst of the chaos, couldn't help but let out a chuckle, albeit nervously, as he scratched the back of his head. A single sweatdrop formed at his temple. He glanced at Pikachu, who had found refuge on his shoulder amidst the mayhem. "Well, so much for our plan," he sighed, his hand moving to rub his chin thoughtfully. "I guess now we wait for potential side effects."

"Look guys!" Nemona cut through the tension, her finger pointing excitedly at Koraidon. All eyes turned just in time to see the Pokémon undergo a startling transformation. Its neck elongated and its tail folded underneath its body. Then, with a burst of newfound energy, Koraidon began to zoom around their group with incredible speed, creating a miniature whirlwind of red dust and dirt. Everyone instinctively raised their arms to shield their eyes from the gritty onslaught.

"It's like a Cyclizar!" Goh exclaimed through the makeshift whirlwind, squinting through the chaos.

From beside Serena, Ash gritted his teeth and called out firmly, "Koraidon! Settle down!"

Surprisingly, Koraidon ceased its frenzied circling, coming to a standstill. The cloud of dust gradually settled around them, revealing the Pokémon's form once more. In its excitement and possibly trying to show off its newfound vigor, Koraidon attempted to launch some kind of attack, a demonstration of its power. Unfortunately, the attempt fizzled out, resulting in no visible effect. The Pokémon looked somewhat dejected, its body language conveying disappointment at its failure to execute what it had intended.

In the aftermath, Ash helped Serena to her feet, his concern evident as she dusted off her skirt, trying to rid her clothing of the grit kicked up by Koraidon's impromptu display of speed.

"Hey! I'm glad you're feeling better, but you still gotta be careful," Ash admonished Koraidon gently, walking up to the Pokémon and patting its neck in a reassuring manner.

Pikachu moved from Brock and hopped onto Ash's shoulder, chattering away to Koraidon. Though the exact words were lost on the human onlookers, the tone was unmistakable: a friendly but firm reminder for Koraidon to be mindful of its strength and the effects of its actions.

Koraidon, sensing the mood and perhaps understanding the gentle reprimand, appeared almost sheepish. Its massive form shifted slightly, and with a playful glint in its eye, it extended its huge, powerful tongue to give Ash a generous, slobbery lick. The act, so unexpectedly affectionate from such a formidable creature, caught Ash off guard.

He burst into laughter, the sound bouncing through the canyon. His face was now streaked with the unmistakable mark of Koraidon's affection, a wet, glistening trail left by the Pokémon's tongue.

"Grossss," Nemona couldn't help but exclaim, her nose wrinkling in mock disgust as she shook her head at the scene. Despite her reaction, a smile tugged at the corners of her mouth, revealing her amusement. Turning to face the group, she planted her hands firmly on her hips. "Well now what?" she asked, her tone a mix of practicality and eagerness to move forward.

Serena, drawn back to Koraidon, gently approached the Paradox Pokémon. Rather absently, she began the tender task of removing the pebbles that had embedded themselves in Koraidon's majestic blue and white plumes during its spirited dash. "Well," she began, soft and thoughtful as she smoothed her fingers through Koraidon's now pristine feathery mane, "I think Koraidon seems fine, even though it ate the whole plant."

However, her concern soon shifted as she caught sight of Arven. The botanist appeared a shadow of his usual self, kneeling on the ground with a profound sadness etched into his posture. His gaze was fixed on the ground, lost in a sea of disappointment and resignation, a blue haze of despondency clouding his eyes. Serena's heart went out to him, and without a second thought, she moved to his side, her presence a silent offer of comfort. Placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, she ventured softly, "Arven…?"

"It's fine," Arven's voice was a whisper of defeat, his hand lifting weakly in a gesture meant to dismiss her worry but failing to mask his true feelings. "I'm fine. This kind of stuff happens to me all the time. Really. This is my life."

Nemona snorted, coming up beside the two. "Don't be so melodramatic, Arven. It was just a plant. We'll find another."

Arven slowly craned his neck to look up at the class president; his features still blue. "You should go into counseling."

Serena, ever the mediator, sought to find a silver lining in the situation. "Okay, well—at least we have some samples of the plant, right?" she offered, her tone hopeful, trying to redirect Arven's focus towards the positives. Her knowing look, full of empathy and encouragement, called Arven back to himself, reminding him that not all was lost. Serena pointed out the glass vial, miraculously sealed and unscathed, on the floor that contained the precious extract of the Herba Mystica. "You still have what's in the vial before Koraidon ate the Herba!" she highlighted, her words bringing a semblance of relief to Arven.

"Yeah," the botanist muttered. Crawling over to the extract, he carefully tucked it into his bag. He still had another sample in his pocket, so that was reassuring.

Serena then stepped in to offer physical support, her actions as gentle as her words. She reached out, taking Arven by the arm to help him up from the ground.

"Great!" Nemona cried out happily, wiping her face and cringing as her hand came away full of dirt. She groaned, "Can we please get going, now? Not only am I going to need to shower a hundred times when we get back, but we should probably meet with Clavell and explain what we've seen."

Arven sighed, patting Mabosstiff for solidarity. "That's probably a good idea," he hated it when Nemona made sense, but at least such moments were few and far between.

Ash, in the meantime, turned his attention to Koraidon. "I promise to let you out later!" he assured the scarlet Pokémon, his promise a blend of apology and commitment. Koraidon, for its part, seemed to understand, its expression one of mild disappointment at the prospect of returning to its Pokéball. Yet, as it looked around warily, there was a sense of understanding, a recognition of the situation at hand. It nodded, as though still on guard for something unseen.

As Koraidon disappeared into the light of its Pokéball, the group prepared to move forward towards Mesagoza, together.

---

Gary Oak stood before the Tera Industries skyscraper, Umbreon at his side. The building towered above, its glass surface reflecting the early sunlight in a dazzling display of light and shadow. Inside, the lobby blended art-nouveau elegance with modern design, curves meeting straight lines in a harmonious arrangement.

A bit nervously, Gary pulled out his phone where a cryptic message read: 50th floor. The CEO suite. 9 am.

The researcher ran a hand through his hair, adjusting his suit jacket with the other. He shared a look with Umbreon, a silent exchange of confidence. The message, discovered unexpectedly late after the Showcase, had come from an unknown number . Whatever the nature of the meeting, Gary determined to not let this chance slip by.

The lobby's air vibrated with the energy of movement and conversation. Business professionals and scientists, each engrossed in their world of papers and digital screens, crisscrossed the expansive space. Their footsteps echoed softly on the polished floor, a rhythmic beat against the soft murmur of discussions about projects and deadlines.

Gary, navigating through this flow of ambition and expertise, made his way to the elevators. Each step was measured, his presence calm yet assertive among the throng. Umbreon matched his pace, its sleek form a shadow weaving effortlessly through the human stream. Together, they moved with purpose, the anticipation of the meeting ahead reflected in their steady approach.

The elevator carried Gary swiftly to the 50th floor. Stepping out, he was immediately greeted by an enormous circular desk at which a receptionist sat. She was dressed in a crisp, tailored suit that spoke of the professionalism expected at such heights of corporate achievement. Her hair was pulled back neatly, accentuating sharp, observant eyes that seemed to take in everything at a glance.

As Gary approached, those eyes assessed him briefly, a flicker of recognition passing through them. She rose gracefully from her chair, the movement smooth and practiced.

"Mr. Pryce?" she inquired.

Gary nodded in response, affirming his identity.

The receptionist, with a subtle tilt of her head towards a pair of glass doors, gestured for Gary to follow. Her movements were marked by a graceful efficiency.

Gary found himself being led into a large conference room that exuded elegance and modernity. At its heart stood a polished wooden table, its surface reflecting the muted light that filtered through the tall, floor-to-ceiling windows. The room was designed to impress, with its expansive view of Mesagoza stretching out beyond the glass, a symbol of the company's success and vision.

Eduardo Navarro stood by the windows, his gaze fixed on the cityscape. His five o'clock shadow was more pronounced than usual, lending him a disheveled air that contrasted with the sleek surroundings. As the receptionist guided Gary in, Navarro's presence dominated the space, a figure of authority amidst the trappings of power. In the corner of the room, hidden in the obscure shadows, and Absol lounged listlessly.

"May I bring you gentlemen anything to drink?" the receptionist asked, a smooth interjection into the quiet tension of the room.

Navarro turned towards Gary, offering a nod that suggested it was alright for him to request something. Despite the offer, Gary declined, waving his hands in front of him in a polite refusal, signaling he needed nothing.

Navarro's attention briefly returned to Gary, acknowledging his decision, before his gaze shifted back to the skyline, his hands clasping behind his head in a gesture of contemplation or perhaps a momentary escape. "That is all, Rosa. Thank you," he stated with a finality that dismissed the offer of refreshments but also seemed to signal the beginning of their discussion.

Gary shifted where he stood, a subtle sign of unease in the polished expanse of the conference room. His gaze momentarily sought Umbreon, seeking perhaps a semblance of reassurance or solidarity. Umbreon, in contrast to Gary's restlessness, maintained a composed demeanor, its eyes fixed on Navarro. The Pokémon's stare was stoic, unblinking, as if it were appraising Navarro with a discernment that went beyond its animal nature.

"Please, take a seat," Navarro gestured towards the chairs surrounding the polished table, his tone inviting yet firm.

Gary complied, settling into a seat a bit awkwardly. The leather felt cool against his skin, a stark contrast to the warmth seeping in through the vast windows.

"You must be wondering why you're here," Navarro began, words carrying across the room with ease.

Gary, his fingers drumming a steady rhythm on the table's surface, offered a nonchalant shrug. "I generally know why most people require my services," he said, attempting to sound calm and confident.

Navarro chuckled, pouring himself a glass of water from a cold jar on the table. "You're not a bounty hunter," he intoned, amused.

Gary froze, his drumming fingers stilling abruptly. "W-what makes you say that?" he stammered, caught off guard.

Navarro shrugged, his action casual as he took a sip of water. "I've always been a good reader of people. It's why I've made it so far in my business. Some call it intuition. I simply call it being observant," he explained, setting the glass down with a deliberate motion.

Gary clenched his jaw, his discomfort growing. "I don't know what you mean," he countered, his voice tight.

Navarro waved his hand casually, dismissing the tension. "There's no need to worry; your secret is safe with me, Mr. Oak," he assured, his eyes flashing with intrigue and challenge. "You truly thought you could come here and fool some of the preeminent minds in Paldea? Let alone, the world? How amusing."

The room filled with a palpable tension, Navarro's words hanging in the air as Gary processed the implications, his mind racing for a response. Umbreon, still by his side, remained a silent observer, its gaze never wavering from Navarro.

Eventually, Gary let out a slow breath and leaned back in his chair. Well, he was deep in the game now. "So," he began again, "you know who I am."

Navarro nodded, a half-smile forming on his thin lips. "We employ quite sophisticated technology here at Tera Industries. I instructed Márquez to process your image through our facial recognition system. Such a procedure would yield results only if you were registered as a researcher within the global database, which you are," he explained, his tone factual, devoid of any superfluous emotion. "It was a calculated hypothesis on my part. Why else would someone of your background covertly enter Paldea and establish connections with individuals close to the Crater? The real inquiry now is, why? What precisely brings you here?"

Gary rubbed his chin. He felt like honesty would be the best way to go now. He really had nothing else to lose. Navarro could have him kicked out of the region in a heartbeat if he had wanted to, but it seemed like the CEO was after something else.

"Cerise Labs wants to know what's going on in Area Zero," the researcher stiffened, folding his arms across his chest, "We've gotten strange readings all the way from Kanto. Quite frankly, we don't like what we're seeing."

It was true. Professor Cerise had been troubled by unusual readings captured during an expedition in Kalos, emanating from the neighboring region of Paldea. The anomalies were unlike anything they had encountered before, prompting Gary to actually go through with his own—perhaps, unauthorized—investigation.

Navarro nodded slowly and looked down at the glass in his hand, making a show of studying it in the light. "Well that makes two of us, Gary Oak."

Gary raised an eyebrow, surprised. "But don't you essentially own all access to the Crater? Wouldn't you know about everything that's going on?"

Navarro chuckled dryly, a sound devoid of humor. He took a seat, adopting a relaxed posture, legs crossed, before he adjusted his jacket, a gesture that seemed to prepare him for a deeper revelation. "You would think so, eh? En realidad, it seems as though my associate, Professor Turo, controlled all access. And he has effectively cut us off from some of the deepest recesses of the Crater. Has for some time. We had no idea just how far he'd gone…"

This information gave Gary pause. The relationship between Navarro and Turo, and the implications of Turo's actions, painted a complex picture of the dynamics at play within the exploration and study of Area Zero. "Wait, how are you and Turo connected?" Gary asked, delving deeper into the mystery, seeking to understand the ties that bound these individuals in the shadow of Area Zero's secrets.

Navarro released a brief, measured chuckle, not quite amused but acknowledging the complexity of the situation. "He and I were instrumental in the development of the Tera Orb. Our paths crossed initially as students, later evolving into professional collaborations on pioneering expeditions to the Great Crater two decades ago—after the prohibition lifted post-Heath's expedition. Together, we established several research outposts for the Academy, where he served as a professor," Navarro began, his tone blending reminiscence with a hint of regret.

Continuing, he adjusted his posture slightly, the movement precise and deliberate. "Concurrently, I was laying the foundation for Tera Industries. Turo's involvement as a board chairman was pivotal, leveraging his academic credibility to secure investor confidence in our venture to stabilize and utilize the Crater's volatile energy via Tera Crystals. This partnership predates some of the most turbulent periods in our lives, including the tragic passing of Professor Saiba. The event left Turo a changed man, burdened with grief and the responsibility for his young son."

Navarro paused, his expression somber yet composed. "Following his dismissal from the Academy— a consequence of his unyielding fixation—I extended an opportunity for him to join Tera Industries. Our history, marked by shared ambitions and challenges, cemented a bond of mutual indebtedness. In essence, our lives and careers have been intertwined, each of us playing a crucial role in the other's journey," his conclusion carried the weight of years of partnership and the inevitable strains that time and circumstance impose on such relationships.

"But what was he doing for you, exactly?" Gary pressed, seeking clarity on the enigmatic partnership.

Navarro's response came with a raised finger, which he wagged as a gentle but firm reprimand. "I apologize, Mr. Oak. But this is not how our interactions are going to work. You will learn from me what you need to know, and nothing more," he stated, setting clear boundaries for their conversation.

Gary's frustration nearly surfaced as a growl, but he managed to keep his tone controlled, albeit low. "Well, I know about the Koraidon. About how there are Paradox Pokémon escaping the Crater, and how they're somehow connected to you."

Navarro remained unfazed by Gary's revelations, his demeanor calm and collected. "And I am aware that you're privy to these matters. Where does that leave us?" He leaned forward slightly, a predatory smile playing on his lips. "But then again, such enigmas are connected to Turo. Not me. However, I doubt you're planning to inform Officer Jenny about any of this—you're not even legally supposed to be here," he pointed out, subtly reminding Gary of his precarious position within Paldea.

Gary knew he was stuck. He had not expected Navarro to be so nonchalant about the Koraidon—well, really he had not expected Navarro to be so nonchalant about everything. "Okay, well, what do you want from me?" the researcher splayed his hands on the table, "You know who I am and what I'm doing but haven't kicked me out? Why?"

Navarro rose from his seat, his gaze once again drawn to the vast expanse of the skyline, the glass in his hand catching the light. "To speak very plainly, we seem to now be at an impasse, Mr. Oak. You desire access to the Crater and wish to understand the...well, the anomalies. I, on the other hand, value loyalty above all. It appears I possess information that could, potentially, ensure your cooperation," he articulated, his back to Gary as he framed the dilemma with stark clarity.

"I see," Gary responded, his teeth clenched in frustration. Yet, curiosity got the better of him, a small smirk playing at his lips as he decided to probe further. "So, you don't actually trust Hamber, do you? Or García?"

Navarro's reply came sharply with a sudden edge that he quickly moderated, hand rubbing his stubbled chin in contemplation. "I trust no one," he admitted, before adopting a more measured tone. "Mr. Oak, should you become part of my inner circle, understand that it is a complex network, filled with various degrees of loyalty and ambition. Hamber stands as my most trusted advisor, his counsel invariably invaluable. Yet, the value of such advice often comes with a significant cost, and the exact nature of his expectations remains somewhat ambiguous to me," Navarro elaborated, his gaze drifting as if lost in thought.

The CEO continued, "Since Turo's disappearance, Hamber has expressed an increased desire to assert control over the efforts to locate him. He has even introduced a new protege to aid in the search. My suspicions lean towards the possibility that Turo's absence may be linked to an action or word of his own. He never held Hamber in high regard, confidentially urging me to terminate his employment on numerous occasions. I resisted, given the lack of concrete justification. Initially, I dismissed Turo's concerns as mere paranoia, perhaps a sign of his deteriorating mental state. However, the current circumstances compel me to prioritize locating Turo before Hamber and his newly appointed assistant potentially complicate matters further."

"So, you want me to work for you. To find Turo before Hamber does," Gary articulated, seeking confirmation.

Navarro, eyeing Gary with a discerning gaze, acknowledged his multifaceted skills. "I am aware of your prowess as a trainer. You've competed in leagues, trained with the current Monarch…"

Gary shifted uneasily. While he was proud of his past experience, the researcher clearly viewed his battling days rather distantly. "I used to…"

"Well, let's hope your abilities remain sharp," Navarro continued, unfazed. He turned. "The Midsummer's Gala is in about a fortnight. I have made arrangements for you to entertain some of our guests by hosting a series of friendly battles. You will face Amethio. But do not be misled by the notion of 'friendliness.' This encounter will serve as both a measure of your strength and a clear message to Hamber. He has his ward, and now, I have you."

Gary tried to maintain his composure, the gravity of the situation becoming ever clearer. "Sounds fair," he managed to say, betraying none of the apprehension he felt.

Navarro's expression grew even more serious, his eyes narrowing as he laid out the stakes unequivocally. "Do understand this, Mr. Oak. Should you win, you will remain in Paldea under my employ to locate Turo. However, should you lose..." His gaze intensified, a clear threat lacing his words, "you will return to Kanto, and I will personally ensure you are barred from reentering this region."

"I see," Gary responded, steady despite the ultimatum. Glancing at Umbreon, who had risen, emitting a low growl in response to the tension, Gary placed a reassuring hand on his Pokémon, quieting the protective instinct. The Absol, that had been forgotten in the shadows, also rose.

Navarro's demeanor softened slightly at Gary's acceptance. "Excellent. Then I eagerly anticipate your performance at the Gala, alongside the Monarch," he said, a hint of approval in his tone.

Gary started at the mention of Ash, but Navarro was quick to add on to his final directive, halting the researcher before he could ask questions.

"Keep your distance from him, of course," Navarro clarified, reclaiming his seat at the head of the table, "It is imperative that your identity remains concealed. Nonetheless, ensure his attendance. The young champion has many influential individuals to meet."

The researcher nodded rather numbly, absorbing the additional instruction. The complexity of his situation was clear, and with Navarro's expectations set, the path forward was fraught with opportunity.

And danger.

---

Clavell peered over his spectacles with keen interest at the group before him. His orange jacket was as vibrant as always, a stark contrast to the weary faces of Arven, Nemona, Ash, Goh, and Brock. They sat slumped in their chairs, their expressions etched with the weight of their recent experiences, as well as a good amount of red dirt.

Serena had departed to prepare for her afternoon rehearsals, leaving the rest to relay the events. Ash, his gaze downward, watched Pikachu rest quietly in his lap, the Pokémon also exhausted.

Professor Jacq, his purple hair as unruly as the thoughts racing through his mind, shared a glance with Clavell. Both men, surrounded by the trappings of academia, looked on at the group with curiosity.

"Well," Jacq began, adjusting his lab coat that had seen more orderly days, his thick glasses slipping slightly, "Should we be worried?"

The room held its breath for a moment before Ash broke the silence, a hopeful smile playing on his lips. "That depends."

"Depends on what?" Clavell interjected. The corners of his mouth turned upwards, intrigued by Ash's characteristic optimism. He traced the lines of his white beard, leaning back in his chair with an expectant air.

Ash chuckled, easing the tension slightly. "Well, on how awesome you think this is all going to sound—or not," he said, his hand scratching his cheek.

Arven let out a weary sigh, his lips drooping as though weighed down by little fishing weights. "What he means is that it's all going to sound a bit unbelievable…"

Jacq and Clavell exchanged another glance, a silent conversation passing between them. Then, with a resolved firmness settling over his features, Jacq leaned forward. "Try us," he challenged.

Arven recounted their encounter with the gigantic Pokémon that stood guarding the Herba Mystica. He expressed his bafflement over its size, which was unprecedented, and admitted that the cause of its extraordinary growth remained a mystery to him. He shared a moment of lamentation too; although they had successfully secured the Herba Mystica, Koraidon had consumed it in its entirety. Despite not making a complete recovery, however, the legendary Pokémon showed noticeable signs of improvement after ingesting the plant.

"But what we don't understand," Brock cut in, having spoken at length to Arven and Gary about their own findings, "is how the Herba Mystica turns some Pokémon into enormous version of themselves—like the huge Klawf—,"

"The Big-Pebble Titan," Nemoma cut in, her finger shooting upwards, "Remember that's what we decided to call it?"

"We decided no such thing!" Arven declared, mortified. As a future naturalist, he did not want to be thought of as someone who couldn't attribute proper names to new anomalies. "That's an oxymoron anyway. A pebble can't be big!"

"How about Rocky?" Goh offered, feeling like he could contribute.

"Or Stone Claws?!" Ash couldn't resist.

"Crabby Rock?"

"Mega Rock Crab!"

"How about," Clavell interrupted, much to Arven and Brock's relief, "Stoney Cliff Titan, hm? Now, where were we?" He turned back to the Pokémon doctor, swiveling in his chair. "You were wondering how the Herba Mystica made the Klawf so large."

Brock nodded, "Yes. And why it didn't seem to affect Koraidon the same way. Arguably, the Paradox Pokémon ate even more of the Herba than the Klawf, and it still wasn't even fully healed!"

Clavell nodded. Jacq seemed to be looking at the professor as if waiting his turn to speak. Clavell gestured for the professor to by all means proceed. Jacq nodded and pulled out his tablet.

"Okay, so, these huge Pokémon are actually not exactly a new thing," Jacq, with a hint of nervousness tinged with excitement, fiddled with his tablet. After a few taps, the air before them flickered to life with a holographic projection of his screen. A picture materialized, displaying an enormous worm-like Pokémon for all to see. "In the past, they've been called Titan Pokémon, and for quite some time, we were stumped about what caused their immense growth," he explained, a wry chuckle escaping him.

The group leaned in, their attention captured by the holographic display. Jacq continued, his smile sheepish as he met their gazes, "Researchers before us, like Heath, speculated that unrestricted and raw consumption of the Herba Mystica might be the catalyst for transforming Pokémon into Titans. This theory, though still unproven, is hinted at in the fragments we have from the Scarlet Book." He ran a hand through his disheveled purple hair, a gesture of mild embarrassment.

"And that's precisely why, in our trials, we've only ever used extracts of the Herba," Jacq added. "The truth is, we've never had a specimen large enough to study in its entirety. We've had to be cautious, making do with the little we could harvest." The professor's revelation illuminated the group's recent experience, linking past beliefs with their unprecedented discovery.

"That makes sense," Arven muttered, his knee bouncing up and down as he sat. He eyed his Mabosstiff, laying still beside his chair.

Jacq's expression turned somber. "However, our field teams have never actually encountered these Titans before. For a long time, they remained just whispers from the annals of history, echoes from the research notes of those like Heath," he admitted, acknowledging the gap between legend and their current reality.

Brock rubbed his dirt-caked chin, "Well, is there any reason for them to be popping up now? I mean, what's different?"

Clavell joined the conversation with authority. "We have some hypotheses...The Herba Mystica, as we know, are plants of extraordinary origin. Koraidon and Miraidon, too, are creatures beyond our typical understanding. Consider how many plants reproduce: they release seeds to the elements, relying on the wind or creatures to carry them afar. With the emergence of Paradox Pokémon from Area Zero, it's conceivable they could carry Herba seeds with them, inadvertently sowing these plants wherever they find hospitable soil. It's a plausible theory," he suggested, providing a scientific perspective on the mysterious phenomena they were discussing.

"Another is that the plant is merely sensitive to disturbances in Area Zero," Jacq admitted. His theory prompted a collective nod from the group, their minds working through the scientific implications. He then deactivated his hologram, the light from the projection winking out and leaving them in the soft illumination of the room. pressing a few buttons for his hologram to disappear. "Either way, more are appearing, and we have reason to believe that they can be found by, well, finding the Titans."

"But why doesn't Koraidon become a Titan also?" Ash asked, scratching the back of Pikachu's ear absently while he listened. "I mean, he ate a big portion of the Herba."

Jacq's face brightened with the opportunity to clarify. "Ah, that's because the Herba is synergistic with Koraidon's physiology—or at least, with Pokémon from its home dimension. Koraidon, as you might recall, isn't native to our reality. The same goes for the Herba Mystica. So while the plant's raw effects on local Pokémon are, let's say, expansive, for Koraidon, it's akin to sustenance as ordinary as an Oran berry," he explained, offering a glimpse into the complex interdimensional ecosystem they were only beginning to understand.

Ash's understanding deepened with Jacq's explanation, but another question soon surfaced. He raised a finger; another piece of the puzzle needed addressing. "But why isn't Koraidon returning to full strength?" he asked, his brows furrowed.

Jacq, pausing to clean his glasses—a momentary retreat into thought—answered with a hint of uncertainty. "Ah, hm," he started, carefully considering his response. "The Herba Mystica isn't quite whole, it seems. There are five types, aligning with the five basic taste profiles. We've theorized that they might have once grown together, in a single form that completed each other, allowing Pokémon to recuperate fully when ingested."

Arven leaned forward, "But this Herba Mystica was growing in the ground. By itself. Maybe we're wrong about that theory?"

"It's possible," Jacq's noncommittal gesture seemed to invite more questions than it answered, yet it acknowledged the vast unknowns they were grappling with, "but still, roots run deep. Who knows what it could have been connected to."

Arven, momentarily stilled by the possibilities, began an internal dialogue, visible only in the rhythmic tapping together of his fingers.

"By all accounts," Clavell broke through the tired silence, "you all did well. Good work. "Koraidon is one step closer to being back to its full potential, and now we know what to keep an eye out for in regards to finding any more Herba Mysticas." His words provided a semblance of closure to the current topic.

He continued, "It has been recorded in Heath's notes that when one type of Herba appears, the others are likely to follow. It's the natural order of things—a balance we've observed throughout life." Clavell's assurance that they were on the right track seemed to lift some of the weight from the room.

"And so," he concluded, "while you all keep watch for more Herba Mysticas, Jacq and I will dedicate our efforts to finding a way to return Koraidon to its rightful place. This is just the beginning of our work together." Clavell's words, firm and resolute, seemed to galvanize a new sense of purpose in everyone present.

Ash and Pikachu nodded before exchanging determined glances with the rest of the group.

The room settled into a brief silence, the weight of the conversation seeming to draw to a close, when Nemona, resolved, raised her hand. "Um, Clavell, can I ask you a quick question? About Team Star?" she asked, punctuating the quiet.

Clavell responded with a slight blink, surprised by Nemona actually raising her hand to enter into the conversation this time. He positioned his hands in front of him on the desk, palms down in a gesture of openness and readiness to address her concerns. "By all means, presidenta," he replied, "What is it? They haven't been causing further issues for our students, have they?".

Nemona actually looked thoughtful for a moment, wanting to be sure to convey her story with accuracy. She explained how she and Goh ended up at the Team Star camp and how they had had to face Mela, the self-proclaimed Squad Boss of the camp. The student council president then went on to describe how after the battle, where she won, Mela said some things that made Nemona second guess as to whether or not Team Star were really the bullies they had posed themselves to be.

"So I guess my question is," Nemona tapped her chin, trying to formulate the words while Pawmo looked up at her, "what was the scandal that led you to order that Team Star either disband or be expelled from Scarlet Academy? Because, Mela really did make it sound like Team Star just wants to be left alone and not go to school…but she said something about Operation Star?"

"Ah," Clavell reclined in his chair, his hands coming together in a steeple as he contemplated her questions. "The truth is, the details of the scandal are unclear to me as well. It unfolded under Director Harrington's tenure, and the records were purged by the deputy director, who was later dismissed for his mishandling of the situation." Clavell's sigh conveyed his own discomfort with inheriting an unresolved issue. "My decision regarding Team Star was informed by their tarnished reputation. But now you suggest there may be more to the story?"

Nemona exhaled deeply, her confusion apparent. "I don't know. But I have someone who might be able to help me figure everything out! If it's okay, I would like to use some of the Student Council's resources to look into the matter."

"Of course," Clavell nodded stoically, lowering his head slightly as a glare flashed on his spectacles, "to be quite honest with you, I have been meaning to look into the scandal for some time, but have not had the bandwidth. Use whatever resources you need to uncover the truth."

Nemona lifted her fists in triumph, "Will do!"

Clavell smiled, "Well, I suggest you all shower and get some rest. If you decide to not show up to classes tomorrow, your absences will not be excused."

At the mention of showers and the prospect of resting in their own beds, everyone let out audible sighs of relief. The thought of warm water washing away the dirt and stress of their recent adventures, followed by the comfort of sleep, was a balm to their weary spirits.

---

Monday came quickly. Too quickly. And Ash found himself caught in a whirlwind of what really was, in a word: school.

The Biology test had been fine. Much to everyone's groaning, Nemona had held an intense study session the night before, and even Goh felt pretty confident—which said a lot.

But Math with Ms. Tyme was painful. Not because she was a bad teacher or anything—in fact, she was generally a warm and engaging figure, her dark eyes often half-closed in a joyful expression if they weren't staring down inattentive students. It was just that Ash didn't see any use in knowing equations if he was a Pokémon trainer…maybe if he had also been an inventor like Clemont, but he didn't see himself getting into that. And so, Ash found himself mostly staring blankly at the board, and subtly rebelling at the idea of cramming any more information into his head.

With a sigh, Ash thought about how Pikachu was probably having a much better time than he was at the Pokémon Daycare, where students could drop off their Pokémon while they were in class. After thinking about that for a little while, Ash's thoughts began to shift back to Serena, wondering what she was doing.

She was probably at rehearsals, he guessed, even though he realized he didn't know much about her daily schedule. He wanted to though. He figured he should probably figure it out when he wanted to take her out on…well, on a date.

The thought sent a small shiver down Ash's spine and he unconsciously tugged at the collar of his white button-down. Tentatively, he pulled out his Rotom Phone from underneath his desk. His fingers tapped and scrolled until he found Serena's number. He opened a new message.

And paused. What did people say exactly when they messaged? Was it bad to ask a girl out like this? He could always wait to see her after her dance class and ask her out then. But, he wanted to talk to her now. Should he just…

Ash started at the sound of Aliquis popping a large pink bubble with his bubblegum. The blue-haired trainer was sitting next to him, seemingly as disinterested in the math lesson as Ash was. The champion watched, momentarily distracted, as Aliquis twirled his pencil in his tanned fingers, the eraser end occasionally pressing against the soft part of his cheek in a rhythm of boredom.

Noticing Ash's intense stare, Aliquis paused mid-chew. With his mouth still slightly open, a look of confusion crossed his face. "What?" Aliquis asked, eyeing the young champion suspiciously.

Ash shifted in his seat, looking to see where Ms. Tyme was. She stood at the board, going on about rational functions or something. Ash nodded to himself and moved forward to whisper, but Aliquis stopped him.

"Don't lean in, that attracts attention," he pointed with his pencil at Ash and then back down at his notes as if to look like he was explaining something to Ash. "Just pretend you're asking me something about the textbook."

Ash blinked. He then brought his math book closer and flipped a page, pointing to something random. "Do you know how to, um, message a girl?" Ash asked, a rather shy grin on his face as he scratched his cheek at having heard how the question sounded out loud, "Sorry, I meant—well, Arven said you knew some things about dating and—"

Before he could finish, Nemona, ever vigilant and seated just in front of them, abruptly spun around with a force that sent a ripple of silence through their immediate vicinity. "Shhh!" she hissed.

Everything fell quiet for a moment while Ms. Tyme thanked Nemona for her dedication to keeping an ordered class, but that she could handle any side conversations herself.

"Of course, profe," Nemona acquiesced, shooting Ash and Aliquis a quick fiery glower. Beside her Goh clucked his tongue as though chiding a couple of children, but obviously mocking Nemona's stiff attitude.

When she turned back around, Aliquis looked at Ash and muttered on a low breath. "You still need to whisper."

"Right, sorry," Ash winced, rubbing the back of his neck. And then, after another moment, "Well? Do I just say, 'hi'? Or 'hey?' I don't really use my messages."

Was this kid for real? Aliquis thought, closing his eyes with a small vein popping in the back of his skull. "Are you telling me you've never texted a girl before?" Aliquis looked about as shocked as if he'd seen Nemona talking back to a teacher. "You're a famous celebrity who could literally get any chick he wants and you're asking me how to date?" And then, almost to himself, Aliquis leaned back in his chair and twirled his pencil again in his fingers with a small laugh, "You can't make this stuff up, can you?"

Ash chewed his lip, trying not to react to the subtle burning in his cheeks. Maybe this was a terrible idea. Ash tried to brush off Aliquis's comments with a cool, forced shrug, "Look, it's not a big deal. I was just wondering."

Aliquis put a hand to his heart, his eyes closed. "No, no. It is," the blue-haired Paldean grinned, a wicked flash in his eyes, "but I'm honored to help the monarch in his quest for game."

Ash's face went blank and he paled. His eyes became slits. This was definitely a bad idea.

"Oye, atención!" Tyme barked, smacking a long pointer on the board, the sound snapping numerous students back to attention

The classroom momentarily froze under Ms. Tyme's sharp command, the crack of her pointer against the board reverberating through the silence. The sudden noise acted like a spell, instantly drawing the students' wandering attention back to the subject at hand. Ash and Aliquis, momentarily caught in their own world, quickly adapted to the change in atmosphere, hastily pretending to jot down notes as Tyme resumed her lecture with renewed vigor.

As the lesson progressed, the initial tension dissipated, leaving the students engrossed in the complexities of rational functions. Ms. Tyme, with a practiced hand, navigated through the final points of her presentation, her voice steady and authoritative. Eventually, she concluded the lecture and moved to the next phase of the class, pairing students off with their deskmates to tackle a series of practice equations designed to reinforce the day's learning.

Ash and Aliquis, now officially partners, pulled their math books closer. Ash still had his phone out underneath the desk, feeling a little guilty suddenly for wanting to message during class. Maybe he shouldn't. It was disrespectful.

But how was she doing? Ash felt like it was a nice thing to check up on Serena after the grueling weekend. Also, wouldn't she be back to working with Lebarón? The thought made Ash's fingers clench against the sides of his phone a little. He knew she wasn't looking forward to that…maybe he should just ask how everything was going.

So he began to type out, How are you? and stared at that for a couple of seconds before pressing the delete button. Doesn't that imply that he expected something to be wrong? And why would anything be wrong exactly? Wow, Ash thought as he rubbed his eyes, no wonder he never messaged people. It was hurting his brain.

"Just say 'hey,'" Aliquis offered, not even bothering to look at Ash, rather his eyes fixed on the textbook while he jotted down a function into his notebook. "But I wouldn't ask her out over text,"

Ash paused and then nodded with a relieved grin. "Okay!" He exclaimed with a little too much emotion. Professor Tyme came around and tapped both boys on the back of their heads with her long pointer.

Ash and Aliquis immediately reburied their heads in their textbooks until the stern instructor made her rounds to the other students.

Ash then quickly took out his phone again, typing the letters before he could change his mind, and hit "send."

Ash: Hey!

Ash grinned and read the text over and over again with a satisfied nod before pocketing his phone, bouncing his leg up and down with a nervous energy.

"I would have left off the exclamation," Aliquis remarked dryly, shaking his head with a little smirk as he scribbled something else in his notebook. "Makes you sound too excited."

Ash blinked, confused. "But I am excited?"

"Yeah, but you want to play it cool, right?" Aliquis rolled his eyes. Really, did this guy know anything? He had fan clubs all over the school for him and he was just going to show all his cards. Aliquis gave a dismissive wave as if to change course, "Okay, but after you ask this girl out, let me help you plan the date," Aliquis grumbled, readjusting his seat closer to his desk and putting an elbow on the wooden surface. "I know all the best places in town. And you can borrow some of my clothes again."

Ash's eyes seemed to glitter with enthusiasm as he lifted a fist in the air. "Awesome!"

Professor Tyme came by again to physically grab the two boys by the hair and turn their noses towards their math books.

---

Serena felt her Rotom Phone vibrate but she quickly forgot about the notification as she was currently staring at a group of twelve girls, all who had signed up to pursue Performance as a minor to their Coordinating studies. They sat in the first row of the auditorium seats of the Teatro Real, looking up at Serena, who sat mildly embarrassed on the stage, looking down at them, her legs crossed beneath her skirt. Sylveon lounged beside her.

It had been arranged that—in addition to after school rehearsals—every Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays, the girls would come to the theater for a class period to work with Serena on learning new performance techniques, which they would be able to incorporate into rehearsals. This was the first week they were beginning these "master classes," as Lebarón called them.

"Okay!" She began brightly, but a little nervous, clapping her hands together, "is this everyone?"

"Yes!" Ana, the girl she also shared a dance class with, was the first to speak up. She sat with her knees together, bouncing up and down, with a Sprigatito in her lap. "And we couldn't be more excited!"

The girls, each accompanied by their own Pokémon, responded with a chorus of affirmative noises, their faces alight with the thrill of beginning something new and the prospect of learning from Serena, whom they admired. Their Pokémon, ranging from the sprightly Eevee to the playful Snivy, shared in their trainers' enthusiasm, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere with their own unique expressions of eagerness. Some Pokémon chirped cheerfully, while others performed small leaps or twirled, showcasing their excitement in a display of spins and sparkles.

Around the auditorium, notebooks were flipped open with a sense of purpose, pens and pencils poised over blank pages ready to capture the wisdom Serena was about to impart. A few of the girls leaned in towards one another, whispering animatedly about their aspirations and how this class might propel them closer to their dreams.

Among the aspiring performers, Ohara sat with a quiet determination, her decision to pursue a minor in Pokémon Performance classes solidified after witnessing Serena's captivating Showcase the previous Friday. Already on a path to major in music, Ohara was enchanted by the seamless harmony between Serena and her Pokémon on stage, a display that resonated deeply with the flutist's own aspirations. The way Serena and her Pokémon intertwined their performances, highlighting the profound bond between them, had struck a chord in Ohara's heart, inspiring her to meld her passion for music with the world of Pokémon Performance.

Having discussed the possibility with Serena, Ohara found encouragement in the Kalos Queen's response. Serena, having already seen Ohara dance and play the flute, had eagerly convinced her to join the class. It was clear to Serena that Ohara, with her musical background and inherent grace, would not only benefit from the classes but also bring a unique dimension to the collective learning experience.

In the auditorium, Ohara sat with her Fuecoco contentedly nestled in her lap, absorbing the nervous yet hopeful energy that Serena projected from the stage. Sensing the momentary uncertainty in Serena's demeanor, the petite brunette offered a supportive thumbs up, a gesture of reassurance that they were all in this together.

Serena, catching Ohara's gesture, felt a flicker of confidence. As the Kalos Queen looked out at her new charges, the mix of nerves and anticipation settled into a quiet determination to guide these young talents towards finding their own unique voices in the world of Pokémon Showcases.

Serena lifted her hands to quiet the girls down, but her smile widened, "I'm excited too! Friday's show was amazing thanks to you all! I can't wait to see what else we can do together!"

The girls smiled and nodded while Serena exchanged happy glances with Sylveon. She was excited to teach them everything she knew.

"Um, Serena," a tall pink-haired girl holding a Piplup began, "is it true though that this week we are putting on like a real performance? Where people vote and everything?"

Serena looked at Kathi Grace, who stood off to the side near the wings of the stage and looked up from her tablet. "That is what Lebarón wanted," the manager intoned, pushing her glasses higher onto the bridge of her nose.

"But that doesn't really make sense, right?" Ana asked, tapping her dimpled chin, "I mean, we've only been practicing performance choreography for a week now. And you're the Kalos Queen! How are we supposed to even compare?!"

The girls and their Pokémon exchanged worried glances.

Serena's mouth twisted into a small frown. It was true, Lebarón had been set on making the next Showcases more like the actual competition, which she had pushed back on. It didn't make sense, seeing as the girls who would be participating would not be as trained or seasoned as herself. It would hardly be a competition. The more Serena thought about it, actually, the more she surmised that it was Lebarón's intention for her to win and to win repeatedly; growing her into something sellable, almost like a product.

That would not do.

"I don't think we're actually going to do that," Serena found herself saying, before she could really think through the words, but she smiled at the freedom she sensed in them.

"We're not?" Kathi Grace raised her eyebrows, a little unsettled, but not disappointed.

Serena shook her head, her smile growing larger and more excited. "No, I think Ana's right. It doesn't make sense," Serena tapped her chin and hummed, "maybe we should coordinate something similar to what we did this week, but with more individual numbers for you all to practice!"

"It could be like a talent show of all the new things you've taught us!" Ohara offered, her Fuecoco jumping from her lap with a happy little spit of fire flickering from its nose. Others began to voice their agreement with the idea.

Serena jumped at Ohara's suggestion. Without the competition aspect, the girls could take risks and try new things without being afraid. Incorporating their own culture and unique spin into the performances.

"Just remember," Kathi Grace nudged, walking up to Serena and lowering her words, "many people coming are expecting to see the Kalos Queen."

Serena nodded towards her manager with a reassuring look. "And I will still make sure to incorporate myself as much as I can, but each of the girls should have more stage time."

But the non competitive performances would also give the audience an opportunity to attach to someone else based on personal style or preference. Serena would also feel free to take her own risks and learn from the Paldean girls. This way, when they finally put on a true Showcase, all the girls would have an established following. In addition, they'd be way more experienced and the competition would be significantly greater.

Serena grinned. It was perfect.

"Okay!" The honey-blonde jumped down from the stage, pumping a fist with excitement, "Let's get started! First, we brainstorm concepts for your numbers; next, we design outfits; and finally, we choreograph!"

The girls all cheered. Even Kathi Grace allowed herself a small smile.

---

Okay, so maybe he didn't like messaging, Ash decided, as he checked his phone for the hundredth time as he followed Goh, Aliquis, and Nemona out of Battle Studies, which had still been mostly introductory material, and towards the Blitz Field.

Ash took out his phone and reread the message he'd left her, wondering aloud to Pikachu, who sat perched on his shoulder looking down at the screen as well as if his little beady eyes could read. "Maybe I should have said more?" Ash scratched his head, "Something like 'hey, how's it going'?"

He glanced at his best friend, a look of worry deflating his features. Pikachu took a small paw and comfortingly patted his trainer on the side of his face, "Pika, pi. Pikachu?"

"I guess she could be busy," Ash lamented, replacing the phone back into his pocket.

The group advanced across the open grounds of the school, a vibrant stretch of green that buzzed with the energy of student life. To their left, the inground stadium stood like a coliseum, its rows of seats rising up from the earth. They then strolled past the track fields, where pounding feet and determined faces jogged across the rubberized surface as a warm up for their own afternoon practices.

Approaching the locker rooms adjacent to the Blitz field, the atmosphere shifted subtly. The air here was charged with anticipation, the sounds of the nearby pitch—the calls of the Cyclizars and the thud of balls being slapped and caught—bounced off the freshly cut grass.

"Okay!" Nemona announced, Pawmo scurrying on her head to cross her arms in front of her furry body, as if expecting Nemona's next words, "The Blitz rosters are posted! Hope you all made the cut," she held up a finger to Ash and Goh and winked.

They had made the team. It hadn't been much of a surprise. Saguaro had taken a liking to the two and made that clear as soon as they came onto the pitch all geared up. The burly professor, whose enthusiasm for the game was as robust as his physique, had welcomed them with a boisterous laugh and an embrace that was as much an initiation as it was a congratulation. His thickly-muscled arms moved around both their necks, lending them a mighty squeeze that almost took the life out of them.

"I am glad you've come to play our beautiful game, chiquillos," Saguaro said, his grin as wide as the field itself. He followed his warm greeting with a hearty clap on their backs that nearly sent both boys stumbling forward. "Vamos. We have much to practice today—passing with fluid movements—with the grace of Swannas and the power of a Salamance—moving together as one! That is our goal today!"

And that is precisely what they did. For the next three and a half hours, the Blitz team was a blur of motion and teamwork, dedicated to perfecting their passing drills. The drills were a series of strategic exercises designed to enhance their coordination and agility. They began with simple tosses, ensuring that each member could receive and pass the ball with both precision and grace. On their Cyclizars, players formed a large circle, passing the ball in quick succession, their movements rhythmic and fluid like a well-oiled machine.

As the practice intensified, the drills evolved into more complex patterns. The players rode across the field in a choreographed dance, passing the ball back and forth while maintaining their Cyclizars at a brisk jog. They practiced feints and quick changes of direction, the ball zipping between them, never staying in one pair of hands for more than a moment.

Ash, not used to such repetitive motions in his arms, felt the strain as if his limbs were being stretched to their limits. An hour into the drill, a dull ache began to spread through his muscles, a persistent reminder of the physical demands of the sport. Despite this, he pressed on, fueled by determination. The team's collective spirit could be felt, each member pushing through the fatigue, motivated by Nemona, Laura, and Aliquis's direction, as well as Professor Saguaro's booming encouragement from the stands.

Sweat glistened on Ash's brows as he executed one drill after another, the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the field. The sound of the ball being passed—thumping against hands, being caught, being thrown—created a percussive backdrop to their efforts. Overall, it was an exhaustive session.

During one of the passing drills, Ash found himself paired with Brutus, who had been acting rather aloof and irritated all practice. The exercise started routinely, with firm passes exchanged between the two. Gradually, the intensity escalated as each pass grew more forceful, the sound of the ball cutting through the air growing sharper with every throw.

The drill culminated when Brutus, with a challenging glint in his eye, hurled the ball with excessive power directly at Ash's head. Ash's reflexes kicked in, and he narrowly avoided the incoming projectile with a swift dodge. Frustration boiled over, and Ash growled, "What is your problem?!"

Brutus just shrugged, a smug look on his face as he casually steered his Cyclizar to the side, creating a distance between them now that they were at the end of their line. "Just seeing if you had the guts to take a Blitz ball to the face," he retorted with a smirk. With a confident flick of his silver hair, he added insult to injury, "Guess not. I'd work on your arm, by the way. You throw like a Jigglypuff."

Ash's fingers clenched the reins of his Cyclizar, the muscles in his jaw working as he processed Brutus's dismissive attitude. "Look, we're on the same team now. We're gonna have to work together."

Brutus snorted and made a crude gesture. "I don't think so, man. Just stay out of my way," he shot back, his tone dismissive.

As the Galarian rode off, his indifference hanging in the air like a challenge, Nemona rode up beside Ash, her presence a potential buffer against the tension. She sighed, tugging at the strap of her helmet, her own frustration evident. "I don't think it's you," she muttered, her expression mirroring Ash's annoyance. "He's just not a team player. Again, I don't know why Saguaro keeps him on."

Ash's gaze drifted back to Coach Saguaro, who sat among the Pokémon spectators on the benches. The professor's dark eyes were locked onto the exchange that had just transpired, his scrutiny intense. The slight smile that played on his lips was complex, not one of joy but of understanding, as if he saw beyond the surface tension to the dynamics at play beneath. Ash could only speculate on the coach's thoughts, wondering if there was some method to his tolerance of Brutus's difficult behavior.

With the confrontation behind them, Ash and Nemona turned their attention back to the field and resumed their places in the passing drill.

Blitz practice continued under the bright sky, a flurry of energy and motion as Ash and his Cyclizar, Blade, grew more attuned to each other. Each pass and play continued to give them a feel for each other's styles. Ash now rode with a confident sense of assurance. Though he hadn't yet explored Blaze's transformative abilities, the synergy they shared was evident in their smooth, coordinated movements across the field.

Despote mostly ignoring his silver haired rival, Ash couldn't help but observe Brutus's interactions with the others. Whenever a pass was less than perfect, Brutus's frustration flared. His throws, unnecessarily forceful, tested the limits of his teammates' skills. Aliquis, despite his adeptness, struggled to handle the intensity of Brutus's passes, missing a few catches, which only served to heighten the Galarian's annoyance.

Eventually, the intensity of the drills waned as a break was called. Several players, including Ash, made their way to the bleachers for a much-needed respite. Dismounting with a fluid grace that spoke of his increasing comfort as a rider, Ash removed his helmet, welcoming the cool air against his sweat-dampened hair.

Pikachu scurried over with Ash's water bottle. Offering it up with a cheerful "Pika!", Pikachu's eyes shone with encouragement. Ash took the bottle with a grateful smile. Wattrel and Charcadet, also playing around the bleachers with the other Pokémon and watching the practice, came over to offer their trainer support.

"Thanks guys!" Ash replied cheerily, squeezing the water from the water bottle onto his face to cool himself down. He wiped the water over his forehead and then took another few sips of the drink. He handed the bottle back to Pikachu and then ran his wet hands through his hair. "Say, um," Ash lowered his voice and leaned in close to his Pokémon, "has she messaged back?"

He had left his Rotom Phone with Pikachu just in case. However, the yellow mouse shook his head and scratched the back of his ear.

Ash nodded and shrugged, trying not to care. But was she ignoring him?

"Oye!"

Ash looked up and saw Saguaro waving him over. With a little sigh, Ash jogged over to the professor, who was tracing the lines of his thick mustache in contemplation. The man's Pachirisu sat happily on her trainer's shoulder, sipping from Saguaro's teacup.

"How's it going?" Saguaro asked rather vaguely, folding his arms across his massive chest, and looking back out at the pitch.

"Um," Ash scratched the back of his head and lifted his shoulders, "fine? I mean, except for that one drill…"

Saguaro nodded, understanding that Ash meant his interaction with Brutus. "Yes, in life you will encounter some with whom it is difficult to get along, no? But the trick is to understand them."

Ash let out a long breath, strapping his helmet back on. "Why is someone who doesn't want to play with the team even on the team?" he grumbled, his eyes finding Brutus's shining hair as he deftly threw a ball far across the field into the waiting arms of Rudolfo. It was an impressive throw, Ash had to admit. The guy had an arm.

"Ah," Saguaro grinned and raised a knowing finger to his dark eyes, "porque there are some teams that need the player, and some players that need the team."

Ash blinked, exchanging glances with his Pokémon, who only shrugged from the bleachers. "I don't understand," he admitted, dusting off his riding pants with a tired hand. His arms really did start to feel a little numb.

"But you will!" Saguaro roared with an amused laugh and slapped his knee, "Now get back out there, hijito. Tell Nemona to start running some plays. Our first scrimmage is Saturday, you know."

With that, Ash was sent back into the fray, a little wiser, a bit weary, but ready to face whatever lesson Saguaro's cryptic wisdom was leading him towards.

---

Blitz practice concluded a little early but with every player visibly spent, the day's exertions etched into their weary bodies and satisfied expressions. Even Aliquis, who usually carried an air of effortless cool, slumped onto the benches in the locker room, a sign of the day's grueling session. His usual banter was replaced by heavy breaths, his energy sapped by the relentless drills and plays.

Ash, feeling every bit as drained, winced noticeably as he began to peel off his jersey and gear. His arms were going to be useless the next few days, he just knew it. The idea of lifting anything heavier than a pokéball seemed daunting.

He took a quick shower, which offered a brief respite. The cool water cascaded over his sore muscles, a soothing balm that washed away some of the day's fatigue. Ash let the water run over him a little longer than necessary, relishing the temporary relief it provided.

After drying off, he made his way back to his locker, curiosity about his phone gnawing at him. The moment of truth awaited as he picked up the device, swiping it open to check for any notifications.

Nothing.

Ash glanced at Pikachu, who only gave Ash a little lopsided grin, as though he found something amusing.

"What's so funny?" Ash asked sulkily as he shoved his Rotom Phone back into his locker, shrugging back into his school clothes.

"Pika-chu," the yellow rodent wiggled his eyebrows and scurried around.

Ash laughed. He was one of the first to get redressed and he called back to Goh and Aliquis, saying he would meet up with them for dinner later. The two exchanged glances. While Goh and Grookey just shrugged, Aliquis began to catch on. He jabbed a finger towards Ash, "You better be stopping by my room sometime this week."

Nervously, Ash promised that he would before he and Pikachu ran out of the locker room towards the Contest Hall. Ash navigated the school grounds and buildings with a growing ease. He arrived at the dance studio, where the class seemed to still be going. Happily, he and Pikachu took a seat on the benches outside the viewing window. He began to look for Serena.

He found her almost immediately. Ash's eyes lit up at the sight of her and he began to feel himself unwind a little. All the tension he felt from the stress of his classes, from his interactions with Brutus during Blitz—all of it seemed to slowly dissolve away just a little. Just by seeing her.

He had really missed that, Ash realized. Maybe that's why his Kalos trip had held some of his favorite memories. Because he had had Serena there to make him feel like no challenge was insurmountable. That everything and anything could be overcome. That it was no use worrying.

Ash smiled. He and Pikachu both waved pretty vigorously when she saw them from the barre.

She colored but then gave them a subtle smile before coming away from the wall to perform a series of spins with her group.

As the dance class drew to a close, Ash sprung to his feet with an eagerness matched only by Pikachu's own excited chittering. "Come on! Let's go see her!" he said, his grin broad and infectious, directed at his ever-faithful buddy, who piped up in agreement.

Meanwhile, inside the studio, Serena was seated, her fingers working at the ribbons of her ballet slippers with an unusual lack of precision. Her hands trembled slightly. Ana was beside her, oblivious to Serena's distracted state as she delved into the latest society gossip. Her chatter filled the changing area, a constant stream of names and events that seemed to float around Serena without really being heard.

"Wasn't that, like, the Monarch?" Ana pointed to the near empty benches from the opposite side of the studio, "Arceus, he's so fine," the olive-skinned girl giggled, putting her shoes into her dance bag. She then turned on Serena with an excited gasp, "Wait, don't you two know each other?! I feel like I've seen you two together. Maybe on SUSU?"

"Huh?" Was Serena's rather dazed reply, as she was a bit preoccupied trying to control her motions to make them more smoother.

Ana held up her phone and a website called SUSU—or Señora Susurro—with pictures and articles of celebrities and políticos across Paldea, appeared. "She's like a niche gossip blogger here," Ana sighed merrily, little hearts in her eyes, "Like, some of us knew the Monarch was coming to Paldea before the main press even mentioned it! Susu knows everything. I feel like she posted a picture of you two—wait, yes! Look!"

And there it was. A picture of Serena fixing Ash's tie before his turn in the Battle Expositions. "Oh!" She took Ana's phone from her hand and zoomed in. The title of the article was in Paldean. Serena pointed to it, trying to sound more amused than anything, "What does that say?"

Ana looked. "Childhood friends to teenage lovers? Oh, but don't worry, Serena, Susu is all about stirring the pot," Ana was saying, sensing Serena's body coiling with tension, "half of the things she says aren't true. But of course, half of the other things she says ends up very true so…," She side-eyed Serena's paleing face. "Wait, is it true?"

"No!" Serena handed the phone back to Ana with a nervous laugh, "No, I-I just thought, well, it's funny! Ash and I—we're just good friends!" She tried to project a sense of amusement while ignoring the bitter taste those words put in her mouth. But how did that blogger know they were childhood friends?

Ana's face pulled into a wry, mischievous grin. "Well you two would certainly be a drop-dead gorgeous couple and make drop-dead gorgeous babies," the freshman began to giggle,

Serena couldn't help but flush at this but she tried to deflect with another short laugh, "You're too much."

"Well, I think your 'friend' is waiting for you," Ana bumped her shoulder into Serena's playfully before packing up the rest of her things. The Paldean nodded her head towards Ash and Pikachu, both peeking in through the entrance to the studio to search through the dancers, and let out another giggle before mouthing something like, "so cute" and taking her leave.

Serena again tried to repossess control. He did look very nice in his uniform; the crisp white lines of his shirt highlighting his tanned arms. Serena took a deep breath and finished packing up her own things before standing up to meet Ash's roaming gaze. He broke out into a wide grin when he found her. Pikachu chirped happily and jumped down from his shoulders to greet her.

"Hey there, Pikachu!" Serena squatted down to pick the yellow mouse up, rubbing his head affectionately. "Have you and Ash been studying hard?"

"Pika! Pikachu!" he yelped and seemed to let out a snigger.

"Hey! That's not true," Ash grumbled, childishly pouting a little as he folded his arms across his chest, "I haven't been that distracted!"

Pikachu rolled his eyes and shook his head at Serena as if to say the boy was hopeless. Serena couldn't help but laugh, the sound soft and easing some of the pressure that had built up inside her. She glanced around, acutely aware of the curious eyes of her classmates on them. With a gentle flush coloring her cheeks, she motioned for Ash to follow. "Come on."

Pikachu still in her arms, she slung her dance bag over her shoulder and led Ash out of the studio, the two catching a little attention as they began walking through the halls of the Academy. However, once they began to blend in a little to the activity in the corridors, Serena relaxed.

"So how were your classes today?" Serena asked, giving Ash a warm smile, "and how was Blitz practice?"

Serena's question about Ash's day sparked an immediate response, his enthusiasm barely contained as he launched into a detailed account. He beamed with pride over acing his Biology test, a subject he had surprisingly found intriguing. Math class, on the other hand, proved to be a challenge—not for its difficulty, but for its ability to hold his attention. Ash tactfully omitted the reason for his distraction.

The real excitement, however, came when he spoke of Battle Studies. "We learned more about the Terastal phenomenon," Ash shared with wonder and anticipation. "I think Dendra's going to take us to a Terastal Cave next week! It's gonna be awesome!" His eyes lit up at the prospect, the opportunity to explore a Terastal Cave firsthand thrilling him to his core. The concept of Terastallization, with its mysterious and transformative powers, had captivated his imagination, and the chance to use it in battle promised to be a highlight of his academic experience.

"Sounds wonderful," Serena replied, genuinely excited for him. He seemed to really be loving the Academy, which was great. She didn't think the Ash she knew back in Kalos would've really been as thrilled about having to be disciplined in school work just to be able to get to battle. But Ash seemed to have really grown…in many ways, she notes, eyeing him up and down a bit unintentionally. She looked away and laughed softly at herself. "And Blitz?" She asked again.

Ash deflated, adjusting his books under his arm. "Blitz was okay. I think I told you, but there's this guy—Brutus—who's just a real piece of work. He's just so selfish and doesn't play as a team player. And he hates me for some reason," Ash adjusted his hat and sighed, "I don't know what his deal is."

"The Galarian?" Serena pursed her lips suddenly remembering some of the gossip Ana had told her about the young man on one of the first days they had danced together. "Hm, well, maybe he has other things he's dealing with. Usually, when someone is unkind, there's a reason for it. Doesn't make them right, of course, but you never know what someone else is going through."

Ash let out a heavy breath, one that acknowledged what she was saying despite not really wanting to. However, his posture seemed to straighten as her words sank in and he offered her a small smile. "You always see the best in people, Serena," he began, staring at her intently, "that's why you're amazing!"

Serena tried not to scoff, but it was her only deflection that would mask the warmth spreading across her cheeks. After a moment, she turned and found Ash looking a bit nervously at her.

"What?" She asked, suddenly worried. Pikachu even tilted his head, confused by Ash's anxious glance.

"Oh, I just," Ash tried to grin, shoving his hands in his pockets—his notebooks shifting under his arm—and scuffing his shoe on the ground, "I, well, messaged you earlier today is all. And you didn't respond."

It took a moment for Serena to register his words, blinking as she used one hand to reach into the front pocket of her bag to take out her Rotom Phone. She went to the messages and saw that she had in fact missed Ash's message. "Oh!" Serena started, turning back to Ash with a frown, "I'm so sorry! I've just been so busy all day and—,"

"It's okay," Ash waved her off, feeling a little embarrassed from bringing it up, "I just wanted to make sure you weren't mad at me or something." He scratched the back of his head, now appearing a little bashful, "but maybe I was just over-thinking things."

Serena glanced at Pikachu as if to confirm she heard correctly. "Ash Ketchum? Over-thinking?" She gawked playfully at the Electric mouse and he snickered again. Turning back to the raven-haired boy, she teased, "Who are you and what have you done to the real Ash?"

Ash snorted, but looked relieved. Still, he decided to plead his case. "I don't really message people!" He threw his hands out in front of him, "I got nervous! Besides, I still haven't asked you a very important question. So I thought you'd maybe gotten a little upset by that."

Serena just laughed. He wasn't making any sense, but she thought he looked adorable. And she had to squeeze Pikachu a little tighter just to keep herself from throwing her arms around the boy from Kanto, who seemed to really be making an effort to make her feel special.

"Ash, what are you talking about?" she finally asked, allowing Pikachu to hop on the floor and follow alongside them as they made their way out of the school and into the front plaza. Serena stood back up and readjusted the strap of her bag onto her shoulder before squinting back at the young champion, the late afternoon sunlight in her eyes.

To her surprise, Ash's cheeks glowed with a dull pink. "I, well," he cleared his throat and tugged at his tie. She really made it difficult, with her eyes turning every shade of blue imaginable in the golden light. Ash shook his head, deciding to maybe shift his gaze to something else. His eyes fell on her lips again, and he decided that made everything just worse. Eventually, he just stared at the floor, "I was wondering if you would like to, um, go out with me? Like, on a date?"

He winced and peeked out from one eye to gauge her reaction. He wasn't sure why he'd been so nervous to ask, but he had.

At Ash's question, Serena's heart started pounding, its rapid beats echoing in her ears like the drum of an approaching storm. A subtle tremor took hold of her fingers, betraying her nerves. She flushed deeply as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other, her movements betraying a sudden self-consciousness. She knew this might have been coming, but she'd still been wholly unprepared for it.

Despite her initial surprise, a broad smile quickly began to spread across her face. She attempted to conceal her growing expression behind an open hand, as if she could somehow hide the depth of her happiness. But it was a useless effort; her smile was too wide, too bright, breaking through her attempts at restraint like sunlight piercing through the clouds

"Yes, Ash, of course," she said quickly, trying not to sound as light-headed as she felt. "Why don't I look at my schedule when I get home, and I can message you when I'm free."

"Alright!" Ash pumped a fist in triumph and then scratched his nose, realizing he'd been a little loud. People were looking at them. "Sorry, I just got excited. It's just so awesome that the prettiest and nicest girl I know wants to go out with me! I mean, not even Brock gets that lucky." Ash beamed with a little snicker.

Serena just stared blankly at him. Was he serious? Ash didn't even seem phased by what he'd just said. Meanwhile, Serena felt like she was about to have an aneurysm. Maybe she couldn't handle this dream actually being true.

"Oh!" Ash, who had continued walking with her through the front plaza, turned towards her again, "I have to go! I think I have a Bio lab to get to." He scratched his chin, trying to recall his schedule. "Man, where is Nemona when you need her."

Serena giggled at Ash's bemused expression, "Well, you should probably go figure out where you're supposed to go! And don't worry!" She gave him a little wink, "I'll remember to message you this time."

Ash gave a little scoff but he grinned at the idea of hearing from her again soon. He bent down to let Pikachu climb up his arm and then started walking backwards towards the school. "Okay, well, then," he started, rubbing the back of his neck, "I'll see you!"

Serena started to wave, but then gasped as she watched him—eyes still on her—run into another student. There was a mild explosion of papers and curses, but Ash was quick to help the girl out, picking up all her notebooks and writing utensils with a sheepish grin.

Finally he turned back to wave at Serena before disappearing back into the school.

---

Nemona, with a determined stride that matched the purpose in her gold eyes, marched down the corridors of the Academy, the echo of her footsteps resounding against the cold, hard floors. The dormitory doors, each bearing the mark of the students who called them home, lined the walls in neat succession.

Dragging behind her was Goh, who wore an expression of mild annoyance mixed with resignation. His protests were half-hearted at best, recognizing the futility of arguing with Nemona when she was on a mission. Pawmo and Grookey followed closely, their playful antics a sharp contrast to Nemona's intensity. The two Pokémon bounced energetically off the walls and floor, their laughter and calls filling the air.

"Why do I have to come again?" Goh moaned, exasperated as he attempted, unsuccessfully, to extricate himself from Nemona's grip.

"Because Penny will appreciate seeing our friendly faces," Nemona responded, her tone bright and unwavering, as if the very idea should have been obvious to the cityboy.

Goh, however, remained skeptical. "For some reason, I highly doubt this," he muttered under his breath

As they navigated the corridor, Nemona's eyes darted between the numbers on the doors, searching for the one that matched Penny's room. Without warning, she came to an abrupt stop, causing Goh to nearly bump into her. "This is her room!" Nemona declared with a hint of excitement.

Without hesitation, Nemona raised her hand and knocked on the door with a force that echoed down the hallway. The loudness of the knock made Goh wince. He cast a sideways glance at Nemona, bracing himself for what would come next after such a boisterous announcement of their presence.

"Have you ever thought about maybe being less intense with your knocking?" he jabbed a finger towards the door,

Before Nemona could turn to protest, the door hesitantly began to crack open. Through the narrow opening, a pair of glasses emerged, framing eyes that scrutinized the duo standing in the hallway. The lenses caught the light, momentarily obscuring the gaze behind them, adding an air of mystery to the figure peering out.

"Oh," came a deadpanned voice, "it's you."

The door swung open more widely to reveal Penny in full, her expression impassive. Her face, framed by a distinctive sweep of blue hair on one side and red on the other, was marked by a pair of round glasses that sat neatly upon her nose. The glasses did little to hide the flat, unimpressed look in her eyes—a look that seemed to be her default when dealing with unexpected or, perhaps, unwelcome interruptions.

"I have to say, I didn't expect to see you so soon," Penny drawled but shrugged, "come on in, I guess."

Nemona and Goh stepped into the room, which was a landscape of organized chaos. The kitchen counter was obscured by an assortment of gadgets, loose papers, and half-finished projects, evidence of Penny's many interests and ongoing work. Clumps of Pokémon fur dotted the tile floor, her three Eevee evolutions perfectly at ease among the disarray.

Stacks of paper teetered precariously on the edge of the desk, and moving boxes—some open, some not—were scattered throughout, suggesting a recent move-in or an unending process of sorting and re-sorting. Despite the clutter, there was a sense of purpose to the placement of each item, as if even the mess was part of a larger, albeit intricate, system.

Vaporeon lay sprawled on a soft rug, its body relaxed in slumber, while Flareon had commandeered a sunny spot, its warm coat blending in with the sunlight filtering through the window. Jolteon, ever alert, had found a cozy nook amidst a pile of cushions, its eyes half-closed but ears twitching at the newcomers' arrival.

Goh looked impressed, "So you're obsessed with Eevee evolutions," he whistled, watching as Grookey and Pawmo eagerly approached their new Pokémon acquaintances.

"Why wouldn't I be obsessed with perfection?" Penny sighed as if Goh's appreciation were unneeded. "Well, make yourselves at home."

Nemona, however, was not one to hold back her thoughts. "Your room's a mess," she blurted out candidly, her eyes fixating on the collection of empty and unwashed food cans that had accumulated on the kitchen counter.

"Not really," Penny responded as she made her way through the clutter to seat herself in the computer chair, which was tucked into a workstation that boasted an array of monitors and high-tech paraphernalia. "But I guess it's all relative," she added.

Goh, his attention momentarily diverted from the state of the room to the gadgets and equipment that surrounded Penny, posed his question with a hint of curiosity. "So what are you studying again?" he asked, genuinely intrigued by the technological haven he found himself in.

"STEM," Penny replied without looking up, her attention partly on her Vaporeon, which she absently stroked as she relaxed near her feet. She then looked up, a quizzical expression on her face, acknowledging their presence with a mild challenge. "Well, not going to lie, how'd you find my room? It's not like I'm advertising for visitors. I'm also not a big fan of people…if you haven't noticed."

Nemona, undeterred by Penny's pointed remark, took it upon herself to start tidying up the room. With a nonchalant manner, she began to clear away some of the debris that cluttered the space. "Oh, I just looked at your student record," she disclosed, revealing her methods with an offhand ease that suggested she didn't see anything wrong with her approach.

"Um, I'm pretty sure that's illegal," Penny retorted, her brows knitting together in mild disapproval. She folded her arms across her hoodie and assumed a posture that was both defensive and slightly petulant, her legs crossing as she settled back into her chair.

Goh, who had found himself casually flipping through one of Penny's comics, snorted. "Yeah, well," he chimed in, "Nemona's not past being criminal to get what she wants."

"Not true," Nemona snapped, shoving a pile of trash into the already overflowing trash bin. Pawmo sniffed at a half-eaten pack of crackers, made a face, and then contributed to the cleansing, "I just happen to have my sources as the student-body president!"

Penny, seemingly choosing to ignore the legal nuances of Nemona's actions, swiveled back to face her impressive multi-screen monitor setup. With a flick of her wrist, she tossed a sleek, hand-held gaming remote toward Goh. "Do you game?" she asked, a hint of challenge laced in her otherwise bored tone.

Goh's eyes lit up, a spark of interest evident as he caught the controller. "I'm down!" he grinned boyishly and sat down on the edge of Penny's bed.

The two quickly dove into a racing game where players could choose from a variety of Pokémon, each with unique abilities and evolution paths that would alter the course of the race. The digital track was a winding, treacherous route through varied terrains that mirrored Pokémon habitats, from lush forests to volcanic craters.

As Penny selected her favorite character, a nimble Greninja with enhanced agility, and Goh chose a sturdy Mudsdale, the screen came alive with the starting line of the first race. The sound of engines revving—or in this case, Pokémon growling and stomping—filled the room, and the countdown began. The digital competitors leapt forward at the sound of the starting bell.

"Anyway," Nemona continued in the background, the noises of the game attempting to drown her out, "Penny, I want you to be on the student council, to lead the—urgh!—Team Star investigations." Nemona winced as her hands found something wet and moist underneath the sink. Seriously, this girl was going to get evicted for this mess.

"Hm," Penny hummed absently, clearly not paying much attention. She, Goh, and their Pokémon were all enraptured by the screens. "Go left! Go left! Go—oh, too late."

Goh's character on-screen veered too late and plummeted off the edge of a virtual cliff. His side of the split screen flashed black to signify the fall. "I was going left!" Goh protested, his frustration tangible as he resisted the impulse to toss the remote in disappointment.

"Apparently not," Penny cluck, her eyes still glued to the screen.

"Are you guys even listening?" Nemona growled, waving a piece of trash in her hands. "I'm talking about creating a position for you. On the student council. Talk about a CV booster."

"Thanks but no thanks," Penny waved Nemona off, "Not sure I want all that power. I'd definitely abuse it."

Nemona rolled her eyes, catching the girl's sarcasm. With a huff, she marched over to Penny and stood directly beside her, hands on her hips and foot tapping impatiently. "I see. Well maybe you could use it to actually make a difference. Come on? Don't you care about Team Star? You seemed to have a soft spot for them at the camp…"

At the mention of Team Star, Penny faltered. Her fingers, which had been deftly maneuvering the remote, stilled, and her screen abruptly darkened as her Pokémon avatar—caught mid-race without direction—plummeted into a pit of virtual toxic waste. Nemona, observing the inadvertent consequence of her intrusion, couldn't help but wince.

Penny swiveled in her chair to face Nemona, the light from the multiple screens casting a transient glow on her glasses, creating brief flares that mirrored the intensity in her eyes. Goh, having been resurrected in the game somehow, cheered as his Mudsdale crossed the finish line in 11th place against the NPCs. Grookey clapped his ape-like hands beside him.

"What position did you have in mind, exactly?" Penny sighed. She powered down her PC with a decisive click, drawing a groan from Goh.

Nemona, seizing the opportunity, unveiled her proposal with a beaming smile. "School Detective!"

"What?!" Both Penny and Goh snorted. Penny shook her head, putting away the game controllers. "What is this? A murder mystery?"

"Well, it's still a working title," Nemona scratched her chin with a sheepish look.

Penny sweatdropped. She glanced around and did a double-take. Her kitchen, which had previously been in a state of disarray, was now spotlessly clean. How did that happen? Weird…

"Look, let's just call it the 'Office of Student Relations' and call it a day. Happy?" Penny suggested with a grumble, though the faintest hint of a smile suggested she wasn't entirely opposed to the idea. The title had a ring of professionalism and purpose that appealed to her, even if she wasn't quite ready to admit it outright. It was a compromise that seemed to satisfy her practical nature while still leaving room for Nemona's ambitious plans for the student council.

"Perfecto!" Nemona exclaimed, clapping her hands together and placing them beside her cheek. "We'll see you Thursday evening for your first Student Council meeting!"

"Can't wait," Penny yawned, but gave the student body president a little half-smile. The red and blue haired girl then looked back over towards her PC, at which Goh was still staring longingly, "Um, you guys want to play some more?" she offered casually, looking a little embarrassed.

Goh leaped at the chance, his previous despondency replaced by an avidity as he snatched the remote from Penny's outstretched hand. "I call being Rhyhorn this time!" he announced with determination, already envisioning his comeback in the next round.

"Well, I will be the Arcanine," Nemona declared with a flourish, her tone imbued with a playful grandeur as she dramatically took the other remote from Penny. "And only three games—maybe four—and then I go to study."

Penny shook her head, a smirk playing on her lips, "You're all noobs. My Greninja will leave you in the dust."

The three of them settled down, each with a remote in hand, and began a new race.

---

The days passed and it seemed as though a first date wasn't meant to be. At least this week.

Serena had texted Ash back, but her schedule was horrendous. She had had evening rehearsals every night leading up to her Showcase, and they both had been busy in the afternoon with practices. Saturday had looked promising until Nemona reminded Ash that they would be traveling with the Blitz team for a pre-season scrimmage with a smaller school at Artazon. So then plans were pushed to Sunday.

Ash had just received this message as he and Arven sat in Aliquis's room, the space now transformed into a makeshift fashion consultancy. The blue-haired trainer sifted through an array of outfits with a focus that bordered on academic. "It's all about what you want to get out of the date, if you know what I mean. Or the message you're trying to send," he advised Ash, the gravity in his advice belying the seemingly trivial nature of his task. His Meowscarada, equally engaged, assisted by laying out the options, turning the selection process into a collaborative effort.

"Do you want a long-term commitment? Are we looking to have fun? Are you testing to see compatibility? Are you even listening?" Aliquis's questions punctuated the air, each one designed to provoke thought about the nuances of courtship.

Arven, caught in the midst of this unexpected advisory session, appeared somewhat overwhelmed. With his head between his legs, he looked up just in time to catch Ash's distracted figure, absorbed in his phone. For his part, Arven had no idea that his Thursday night was going to be taken up by listening to Aliquis relate to Ash his dating experience. When Arven had told Ash to ask Aliquis about dating, he had most certainly not meant to bring him along too. However, when Ash had pleaded for the botanist to go with him, Arven had sighed and decided he'd really better monitor the conversation—for Serena's sake.

"Look." Arven finally expressed his frustration. "I came here for moral support, remember? Not to get the lecture myself!"

"Yea sorry," Ash responded, putting his phone away with a heavy sigh, the weight of the missed opportunities to see Serena pressing down on him. They hadn't been able to spend much time together since Monday, with Wednesday being the only other day he managed to catch her after dance class to walk her to the front plaza. Every other day, Blitz practice had ended late and so the two had had to resort to messaging a little late at night to catch up on the other's day.

"Well then? Which one is it?" Aliquis pressed on, undeterred by the minor disruption, eager to refocus the conversation on the task at hand. "Are we having fun or…is it serious?" Aliquis winced at the latter idea.

Arven looked at Ash. Ash looked at Pikachu. Pikachu looked at Mabosstiff. Mabosstiff yawned.

Ash, feeling the pressure, struggled to articulate his intentions. "Look, I just want to take her somewhere nice. And, I don't know, make her feel…?" He paused, searching for the right word, his hand absentmindedly tapping his bottom lip. Pikachu, equally at a loss, could only offer a shrug in solidarity.

"Special?" Arven suggested as he massaged his temples. He was beginning to accept the surreal reality of his current situation, trapped in a room discussing dating strategies with Ash and Aliquis. This was his life now.

Ash snapped his fingers and pointed at Arven. "Yes!"

"Okay, then," Aliquis nodded, relieved to finally be getting somewhere. "How about dinner? What's her favorite cuisine? Favorite flower? Favorite type of chocolate? What does she find romantic? Give me something to work with." Each question felt like a dart hitting Ash in the chest.

The young champion's face fell. He felt horrible. He didn't know the answer to any of these questions! He had only vaguely been aware that flowers had different types that went beyond "the red one."

It was Ash's turn to bury his head between his legs. Arven let out a visible breath and awkwardly patted Ash on the shoulder.

"Yeah, dating is a big deal," Aliquis folded his arms across his chest and blew his bangs from his face, "it's an art that really takes years to master. Lucky for you, you know me. And I've been dating since I was twelve."

"I really don't think that's something to brag about," Arven sighed, his eye starting to twitch.

"Look," Aliquis carried on, ignoring the botanist and jabbing a finger towards Ash, "if you want to make this girl feel special, first things first: you gotta get to know her."

Ash felt a flush of embarrassment at the suggestion. "Well, I do sorta know her already…" he offered weakly, his voice trailing off.

"No," Aliquis waved a hand to dispel that answer, "you have to be intentional. Ask questions about her. What she likes, what she doesn't like. You can be friends with someone for a long time and not know what 'woos' them."

There was a weird fire forming in Aliquis's eyes that made Ash, Arven, and their Pokémon shift uncomfortably.

"All I'm saying," Aliquis pivoted smoothly, "is that it takes work to go on dates. Especially if you're trying to make someone feel special. So you better be up for it."

Ash nodded, determination etched on his countenance. He raised both fists up in the air alongside Pikachu. "I'm up for it!" He declared, though his throat felt a little dry.

"Just to clarify," Arven decided to interject because he had a feeling, "have you dated any girls, at all?"

"Zero," Ash announced, unphased.

Everyone in the room fell over.

Aliquis rubbed his head and exchanged glances with Meowscarada. "Well, I guess it's better late than never."

"I never had a reason to go on one before," Ash grumbled, crossing his arms a bit defensively before looking curiously at Aliquis, "I mean, why do you go on dates?"

Arven put a hand on Ash's shoulder. "Some questions are better left unanswered."

Undeterred by the slight derailment of the conversation, Aliquis raised a finger, "Look, let's just start with basics…"

The blue-haired trainer then launched into a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the delicate art of dating. "First off, dress to impress," he began with confidence, emphasizing the importance of making a good first impression through one's attire. "You want to show that you've made an effort, but don't go overboard. And you especially don't want to outdo her…"

As Ash and Pikachu listened with rapt attention, Aliquis continued, "Asking questions is key. It shows you're interested in her, not just in talking about yourself." He paused, a mischievous glint in his eye. "But don't make it sound like an interrogation. This isn't a detective game, even if you're trying to uncover her favorite ice cream flavor."

After a few other tidbits, Aliquis's advise entered the more questionable realm. "If you ever run out of things to say, just remember: everyone loves talking about themselves. So, if in doubt, ask her if she thinks Psyduck's headache ever really goes away. It's a conversation starter and a half."

Ash, trying to absorb every piece of advice, nodded along, occasionally glancing at Pikachu, who seemed equally invested in the discussion. However, even the Electric mouse's ears twitched at the mention of Psyduck, a hint of confusion crossing his small face.

Meanwhile, Arven, having reached his limit for dating advice, theatrically threw himself backward onto Aliquis's bed, staring up at the ceiling in exasperation. He began to contemplate the series of decisions that had led him to this moment, questioning not just his existence but also his choice in friends.

"But do you know the most important moment of any date?" Aliquis's hand swept across the air as though he were ready to take on a challenge for a battle.

Ash and Pikachu both shook their heads slowly. Arven craned his neck upwards slightly, both intrigued and utterly frightened as to where this was going.

"The walk home," Aliquis announced, exchanging a nod with Meowscarada, "That, my friend, is going to determine everything. How you feel about her, how she feels about you, whether or not you're going to go in for…the kiss."

Ash's face bloomed with a fiery blush, so much so that he almost glowed. Pikachu snickered, and playfully poked Ash's radiating cheek.

Aliquis's face remained as serious as ever, "You want a girl to feel special? You want to woo her? You kiss her good."

"Um," Arven began, his eye really twitching now, "I really don't think that's a prerequisite for every good date. Besides, some people move at different paces."

Aliquis looked blankly at the botanist, "I have literally never been on a date in the last two years that didn't end up in a make-out session."

"Yeah, but that's you," Arven rubbed his face with his hands. This literally couldn't be happening to him. He then pointed to Ash, who was as frozen as a Pokémon succumbing to an Ice Beam, "We're talking about him."

Aliquis gave Ash a little wary side-eye, "Hm. You don't look too good there, tío. Don't worry, making out isn't that hard. Just takes practice."

Ash began to sputter, "What are you even talking about?! Arven," the young champion turned desperately to the botanist, "What is he saying?!"

Arven lifted his eye to the ceiling. He began to pray: Arceus, if you can hear me, kill me now and give this kid a guide book to women. But also preserve his soul. Oh, and continue to give Serena patience. Lots of that. Arven then turned back to Ash, "Look, you don't have to do anything you and Serena aren't comfortable with. Aliquis is just…more forward than you."

Aliquis shrugged. "Yeah, Arven's right. I guess you can take it slow if you want. Just sometimes a girl will get offended if you don't at least make an effort to be, well, romantic."

Ash began to contemplate this as best he could. His face still burned and he felt a nervous ball of energy rolling around his stomach and jostling his innards. Well, Serena had kissed him before…which means they'd already had their first kiss, so what was the big deal? Ash tried comforting himself with the thought. If he were honest, he had been wondering what kissing her again would feel like. He had begun to dream about it a little; and in his dreams, many times they were in the Kalos airport again, except this time, they were near a gate and Serena was waving goodbye and she wasn't turning around. Instead, Ash found himself to be the one running up to her, grabbing her by the arm, spinning her around, and then leaning forward. But that's where the dream usually ended. With him clinging to her, wanting to get closer to her, but not exactly sure how.

"I, um," Ash coughed into his fist and struck his chest a little as though to dislodge a lump, "how do I, uh, you know. How do I know when to kiss her?"

Immediately, Aliquis moved into action. Seemingly out of nowhere, he procured a wig and placed it on Arven. He then adjusted Arven and Ash so that they sat side by side on the bed together, facing each other. Arven had not even known what was happening before it was too late. Ash found himself face to face with a wig-adorned Arven. The young champion's cheeks burned with a blush that seemed to deepen with every passing second. Pikachu, Mabosstiff, and Meowscarada were all congregating at a corner, laughing hysterically.

"Okay," Alquis put his hands up like a director preparing for a take, "Arven, you're Serena. Look into Ash's eyes and say something like, 'I had a really nice time tonight,'—Oh! For context, Ash has just walked you home."

Arven again buried his face in his hands for a moment. "I actually don't deserve this," then, looking up at Ash, he jabbed the young champion with a finger, "Just remember what I did for you when I'm dead. And I think my time is coming soon."

Ash's eyebrows furrowed, "I don't think Serena would say that."

"Dios mío," Arven moaned.

"Okay, people!" Aliquis interrupted the pity party, "Arven, get in character. Ash has just walked you home. And you say…"

"...'I had a really nice time tonight,'"

Ash grinned suddenly, "You think she will! I mean, I don't have anything planned yet!"

"Focus!" Aliquis smacked the back of Ash's head, "Tell her you had a nice time too."

Rubbing his head, Ash grumbled before obeying. He smiled at Serena—Arven. "I had a really nice time too!"

Arven looked at Aliquis as though for a cue. Aliquis impatiently gestured for him to respond, offering, "Maybe we can do this…"

Arven rolled his eyes but got the hint. "Maybe we can do this again sometime."

"Yeah!" Ash cheered, seemingly really getting into this role playing.

"Okay!" Aliquis then raised his hands again as if to pause them, "Now here, if she really did have a nice time, she'll start to pause and look you deep in the eyes as though waiting for you to do something—Arven…"

Arven waited for a direction, but when none came, he raised an eyebrow beneath his blonde wig—which actually he found unnecessary. "Yes?" he crossed his arms in front of him.

"Look into Ash's eyes! C'mon!" Aliquis pinched the bridge of his nose, "And start fiddling with your hair or something."

Muttering something about being cursed, Arven obliged. He batted his eyes, very much like the way he knew Serena did whenever she was around Ash, and began pushing his wig hair behind his ears. Also something he knew Serena did.

"You see how she's stalling!" Aliquis was suddenly behind Ash, grasping the young champion's shoulders, and whispering very very close to his ear, "When she does that, it means she wants you to kiss her. Now's your chance. All you have to do is lean in!"

Ash's response, however, was far from smooth. He did not lean in. His response had been more like a wild jerking motion—very fast and abrupt.

"What the hell are you doing?" Arven growled, catching Ash by the shoulders before he could barrel in any closer.

"He said to lean in?" Ash wondered aloud.

"Yeah, but slowly, bro," even Arven was astounded by the smack he had been just about to receive. The things he did for these two, honestly. "Look, I don't know much, but you were about to knock her out with your skull."

Ash deflated and collapsed to the floor in a heap of self-pity.

Aliquis watched him and scratched his chin before grabbing Ash by his shirt to pull him up and reposition him again. "Arven's right. Slow and steady. You lean in, maybe she leans in, you lean in a little more," Aliquis moved his hands together as though to suggest a continuation.

Ash sighed, scratching the back of his head. "Look, this is really helpful and all, but shouldn't I actually plan the date first before I start, well, thinking about this?" Ash gestured to Arven, still dressed up.

Aliquis nodded and clapped his hands together. "Sounds good! Let's pivot! We're looking at Sunday, huh? Well, as for restaurants there's…" Aliquis launched into a list of restaurants, their menus, specialities in great detail to the point it left Ash a little dizzy. Aliquis then dived into logistics: pick up time, what he was going to bring to greet her, types of flowers, chocolates? What would he wear? Aliquis sent Ash a list of flower shops, restaurant numbers to make reservations, etc.

As the blue-haired Paldean continued, Ash seemed to withdraw more and more into himself, feeling completely out of his depth. He couldn't do this. This was way too much! He was so bad with details and didn't even know all of Serena's favorite things. How was he supposed to plan this all out?

Ash was looking through his phone at the list of restaurants when he saw a message from Serena come through. Ash's frown grew heavier and a pit in his stomach formed as he read.

Serena: I'm busy Sunday. I just found out. It's a charity event that Kathi Grace said was "non-negotiable." I'm so sorry! Maybe we can try next week?

Ash threw himself back on Aliquis's bed, rubbing his eyes. He just wanted to see her and to spend time with her. Did it really have to be this stressful?

Pikachu jumped up on the bed and looked down at Ash with concern. "Pika? Pikachu?" the yellow mouse asked, nudging Ash's forehead.

"I'm okay, don't worry," Ash tried to smile, though the expression faltered slightly. "I guess I'm just feeling a little, uh, lousy."

Meanwhile, Arven continued playing thoughtfully with his wig. "Look," the botanist began gently, noticing Ash's inner turmoil, "I know this girl," he gave a pointed look at Aliquis, who was busy calling restaurants for reservation information, and then continued, "will love whatever you do. It's clear she really likes you for you, so just—I don't know—do something that fits who you are."

Ash pursed his lips as he thought about that. Then, as though a lightbulb appeared over his head, a grin formed on Ash's lips as he looked at Arven. "Hey, thanks! You know, I might have an idea!" Ash suddenly jumped up from the bed with new energy. "And thanks Aliquis! I appreciate your help too!" The young champion then turned to Pikachu, "C'mon! Let's do a little last minute planning."

The two of them left despite Aliquis covering the phone's receiver and protesting for Ash to "at least take a decent outfit!" The olive-skinned Paldean then turned to Arven, noticing the wig still on him, "Suits you."

Arven, realizing he still had the wig on, ripped it off his head and tossed it to the floor with a groan.

---

For Serena, the week had gone by like a blur. Friday had come upon her before she or the other girls knew it, but they had been ready. The classes had been so fun, with all the girls loving every second of being mentored under the Kalos Queen. All the girls, Serena included, really looked forward to their time together going through choreography and experimenting with different movesets, combinations, and techniques for creating special effects. In fact, Serena found herself getting inspired by the fresh ways the novice performers embedded their own culture into their numbers.

Ohara and Ana, for instance, embraced the incorporation of passionate and bold dances into their routine, using the emotional intensity, expressive arm movements, and rhythmic footwork of fuegodanza to bring dramatic poses and swift, precise movements to the storytelling aspect of their performances, allowing them to convey a wider range of emotions and narratives through dance.

When the Showcase had finally arrived, each girl had been brimming with excitement. Friday's performance had indeed been like a talent show, introducing Paldea to its new and up and coming performers, while still retaining elements to an actual showcase, just without the voting. In addition to the girls all practicing their numbers for the theme round, they had also been expected to prepare a freestyle performance. Serena's numbers were still longer than most of the girls, but she was not nearly on stage as much as she'd been last week. But the crowd had been in awe of all the variety.

Serena and her Pokémon were able to experiment with bold moves, some of which she and Delphox had even messed up but had laughed all the way through. The steps to fuegodanza was something Serena and her Pokémon were still trying to master, struggling with hardening their movements where their muscles were used to the softness of ballet.

Overall, Serena couldn't remember the last time she had had so much fun.

With the performance over, Serena made her way backstage to decompress and change. She had had to wade through all the girls gushing about how much they themselves enjoyed performing and how much more confident they felt and about all the ideas they already had for next week. Ohara and her Fuecoco had acquired many admirers from the crowd—especially among the children—and she was thrilled by all the admiration.

"Does it always feel this amazing to make people smile?" Ohara had asked, stars in her eyes as she held her little fire crocodile.

Serena had laughed and nodded, "Yes! It really does!"

And she'd been honest. Serena had almost forgotten how, at the end of the day, all she truly wanted was to make people smile. Now in her dressing room, Serena sighed contentedly at her reflection as she began to remove her earrings and accessories from her costume. Pancham and Sylveon had gone with Ana and her Sprigatito to get a post-show snack from the shared lounge. Only Delphox lingered.

"I think that went amazingly well!" Serena sighed dreamily to her starter.

Delphox nodded with a small smile, clearly satisfied with her own performance, "Delphox!"

As the door creaked open, Serena turned, her smile still lingering, expecting to see Kathi-Grace's familiar face. However, the figure that appeared in the doorway was not the friend she anticipated, but Guillermo Lebarón, his presence casting an immediate shadow over the room's warmth.

The transformation in Lebarón's usually handsome features was stark. His face, often the picture of calm composure and charm, was now twisted into an expression of suppressed rage. The intensity in his eyes bore into Serena, a turbulent storm barely held at bay. It was a look so out of character for the man known for his poise and affability that Serena found herself momentarily taken aback, a flicker of apprehension replacing the contentment of moments before.

"What was that?" he practically barked, his hands waving a bit violently and uncontrolled, "I thought we agreed on making, "I thought we agreed to organize an actual Showcase? Where were the votes? Where were the glowcasters? Where's your Princess Key?"

Serena, feeling the weight of his disappointment and anger, turned away from him with a defiant swivel. She continued to remove her jewelry, a deliberate act of distancing herself from the confrontation. "The girls weren't ready for that, Lebarón, you know that. It wouldn't have been fair," she responded, her voice steady despite the tension in the air.

Lebarón's jaw tensed visibly, his frustration manifesting in fists that clenched and unclenched as he struggled to contain his emotions. "I had guests who came to see you win. To see you shine like the star you are, and you produce this? A talent show for mediocrity?" He scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping him as he shook his head in disbelief. "Serena, people are paying to see you perform—to see you be the Kalos Queen you are. What had gotten into that pretty little head of yours to think you can just change how these things go?"

Serena's bright eyes narrowed at the Contest Professor from the mirror's reflection,"You think you can just sell me for profit under the guise of selling a Showcase?" she retorted, turning to face him directly, her posture embodying the strength of her beliefs. "That's not what Showcases are about. Even Palermo knows that. They are about bringing joy to people by celebrating our relationships with Pokémon—from the rookie to the most advanced performer, it's about making people happy. It's not even really about a winner."

As she moved towards Delphox, whose wary gaze had not left the Contest Professor since his arrival, Serena's resolve was clear. "But regardless, we need to give these girls a chance! They seem to be really passionate about this craft and perhaps they could really start a movement of Showcases in Paldea! But we need to give the audience a chance to grow attached to them without me as a distraction! Perhaps these Showcases can actually start being less of a promotion for myself and more for young girls who want to be a part of something great!"

Lebarón, in response, let out a low chuckle, his demeanor shifting as he scratched his chin thoughtfully. "I suppose I have to be more assertive next time about the things I expected. It really was my mistake to give you so much freedom." His eyes darkened with the weight of his responsibilities and the pressure of expectations. "I am the one who brought you here, I am the one responsible for the money of our sponsors. I am the one who takes the fall when we do not deliver what they want."

"Maybe what they want is wrong," Serena replied stonily, though she could feel herself shaking slightly. Delphox steadied her with a paw on her shoulder.

"No," Lebarón retorted, his laughter carrying a darker, more cynical edge. "What they want is you. Now you either deliver, or this," he gestured broadly to encompass the entirety of Serena's world—the props, the costumes, the very essence of her performances, "will end."

With those ominous words hanging in the air, Lebarón turned to leave. His departure was swift but not without a final display of anger; he swiped at a bouquet of roses resting on a dresser, sending the flowers cascading to the floor in a shower of petals and thorns. The door swung open to reveal a very surprised and visibly angered Kathi Grace, her expression one of shock and disapproval at the disruption.

Lebarón, undeterred by her presence, stormed past her, leaving a wake of tension and unanswered questions behind.

Serena, left in the aftermath of his departure, took a deep, steadying breath. Her eyes, once filled with uncertainty, now glinted with a hardening resolve. The threat to everything she was building, to the joy she sought to spread through her Showcases, only served to strengthen her determination.

---

That night, Serena found herself checking her phone multiple times to see if Ash had messaged her.

He hadn't.

Stepping out of the bathroom, freshly showered, she frowned. She set the phone down and adjusted the towel around herself. He hadn't even come backstage to see her, which Serena found a little strange and disappointing. She had messaged him that he could and then waited. However, he never showed and never messaged back.

Serena wondered if he had even been at the performance. She hadn't seen him or Pikachu's bright yellow fur, but honestly she hadn't really had the time to look. He had promised he would be there for her when he could be, but it was entirely possible that he was busy with practice or school. They had both had terribly busy weeks.

Serena made a conscious effort not to dwell too heavily on it all. The rarity of their interactions lately—limited to brief exchanges and the anticipation of seeing each other—only amplified her longing and the weight of her expectations.

As she slipped into her pajamas, a faint blush crept over Serena's cheeks, her thoughts drifting back to the moment the boy from Pallet Town had nervously asked her out. That memory, vivid and endearing, sparked a mixture of excitement and apprehension within her. Part of her couldn't be more thrilled—it was such a girlish and effervescent feeling that threatened to break her apart with giggles if she really allowed herself to succumb to it. However, there was another part of Serena that was cautious—wondering if Ash really understood what all of this meant.

In her mind, Serena juxtaposed Ash's awkward, genuine approach with the idealized portrayals of courtship she had encountered in her romance novels. Those stories, filled with heroes who instinctively knew how to woo and cherish their love interests, set a standard that real life—and Ash—might struggle to meet. This wasn't a fairytale, after all, and the complexities of real emotions and relationships often defied the neat resolutions found on the page.

Serena understood that navigating these waters would require patience, communication, and a willingness to understand each other's perspectives. The delirium of embarking on this new phase of their relationship was tinged with the reality that understanding and mutual effort would be key to finding their way together. And there was, of course, the possibility that things wouldn't work out…that Ash's feelings, at the end of everything, couldn't meet her own—deep and raw as they truly were.

Serena shivered and shoved those thoughts aside, finding comfort in watching Delphox, Sylveon and Pancham as they all made themselves comfortable in her room. Pancham and Sylveon were currently fighting over the remote, while the channel to her TV went back and forth between fake Pokémon wrestling matches to fashion exclusives. Serena couldn't help but sympathize with her Fairy-type.

Serena took one last look at her phone and let out another disappointed breath; the words "Come see me" staring rather emptily back at her.

The performer had just finished drying her hair when she paused as the unexpected sound of tapping echoed through the room. She glanced at her Pokémon, her expression one of mild concern, silently questioning if they sensed something amiss. Delphox and Sylveon offered only puzzled shrugs in response, while Pancham, ever the brave one, marched determinedly towards the glass doors of the balcony—from which tapping had come from—to investigate, pulling back the curtains to reveal the source of the disturbance.

Standing on the balcony was Pikachu, jumping excitedly up and down, a small white peony clutched in his tiny paws. To Serena's amusement, the Electric mouse was also donning a little bowtie, looking every bit the gentleman. Ash had apparently tried to dissuade him from wearing it, but Pikachu, it seemed, had his own ideas about formal attire.

At first, Serena gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as a jolt of fright surged through her. But as soon as she recognized the familiar yellow rodent, her fear dissolved into relief. Smiling broadly, she hurried over to the balcony doors and slid them open. A gentle breeze wafted in, causing the curtains to dance lightly and her pajamas to flutter softly around her.

"Pikachu! Are you okay? What are you—," Serena started but was cut off when the Electric-type held up the flower for her, a little twinkle in his eyes as he winked at Pancham, who stood with his arms crossed, eyeing the rodent suspiciously. The panda Pokémon took a moment to tug at Pikachu's bow tie with a little bit of a scoff only to then side-eye it enviously.

"What is this?" Serena laughed, gently taking the peony and then watching as Pikachu scurried back outside only to excitedly indicate for her to follow. She did hesitantly, hanging onto her pink headband in the breeze. Once outside, Pikachu jumped up on the railing and pointed for her to look down.

She did.

Ash was standing there, shifting his weight between his feet, smiling with a lopsided grin that looked both embarrassed and excited. His hands were in his pockets and he was still in his school uniform, minus the tie and his shirt was untucked.

Serena thought he looked adorable.

"Ash!" she laughed again, placing her elbows on the railing and resting her chin on her hands. She was going to ask what he was doing—but that really wouldn't have been what she wanted to know. And she was done skirting around her feelings. "Why didn't you come see me backstage?" she asked, not sadly, just wondering. She waved the peony in one hand lazily. "I thought maybe you would!"

Ash scratched his cheek and his grin faltered just a little. "I know how busy you get after the show, and I…well, I thought I'd just come see you now! I thought maybe we could go on a date!"

"At 1 a.m.?" Serena's smile grew and she lifted her head to eye him with a feigned wariness. "I feel like dates should start a little earlier than that."

Ash chuckled, but he looked a little worried. "Well, I mean, we've been trying to hang out all week! And I really just want to see you," Ash looked surprised by what was spilling out of him, so much so he blinked and took a step back, but then a look of determination flashed through him, "I missed you. And you asked me to come see you!"

Serena moved her hands to grip the railing. "Well, what are we going to do?" She pushed some of the strands of hair loosened by the wind back behind her ear. "I need to know so I can get changed!"

The young champion beamed. "So that's a yes?"

Serena nearly scoffed at him. Of course that was a yes. She would go out with this boy at any time to any place. He could take her to watch a marathon of films on Pokémon battles—or to the dump even—and she would still be enchanted with him. How did he not see that?

"We're just, uh," Ash began to stammer, realizing that his plan maybe sounded a bit lame. Granted, he had come a bit impulsively. "I always take Koraidon out at night, and there's this really pretty field I go to. I thought you could come with me this time. I always thought you'd like it since, well, you've always liked pretty things. "

Serena didn't know what was making her dizzy—his smile, the way he looked all nervous and flustered, or the way he was rambling about how he'd been thinking of her. Maybe all of it. "Yeah, okay, Ash Ketchum" she found herself saying, though it felt a little like an out of body experience. "You've got yourself a date. But only because you brought Pikachu as your wingman."

Pikachu, upon hearing his name, pumped his little arms in the air victoriously, then made a daring backflip from the railing back onto the balcony, nearly giving Serena a heart attack. Ash let out a relieved laugh from below, the tension easing from his shoulders.

"Give me just a minute to get ready!" Serena called back down to Ash, her heart fluttering.

Serena swiftly went back inside. Suddenly, she became a little bit frantic. This was her first date with Ash! And of course it had to be like this. She nearly groaned at the thought of having no time to plan, no time to sift through her wardrobe for the ideal outfit. It was so characteristic of Ash to spring this surprise on her.

As she made a beeline over to her closet to fling the doors open, Delphox stopped her with a sagely paw. The Fox Pokémon then beckoned to the bed, on which sat Sylveon and Pancham beside an outfit they had already chosen for her.

It was perfect.

Serena nearly cried with gratitude as she snatched the clothes from the sheets and moved behind the partition to change. She was so grateful she had decided to dry her hair—but she hardly ever went to sleep with it wet.

She slipped into a pink sleeveless top underneath a white long-sleeve cardigan, with a white and pink patterned skirt. She had always imagined herself wearing lots of pink for her first date—she didn't know why—but her Pokémon knew that and they had helped her carry out her silly little vision.

In her rush to complete the look, Serena frantically searched for her pink earrings, the final touch that would tie everything together. Just as she began to worry, Pancham came to the rescue, holding them up with a proud grin. With a grateful smile, Serena took them and carefully put them on, feeling more and more like this night was shaping up to be something truly special.

Sylveon, ever attentive to details, presented her with a white purse, then delicately readjusted the cardigan around Serena's shoulders, ensuring everything looked just right. With a heart full of gratitude, Serena waved to her Pokémon, promising to tell them all about her night when she returned. "I'll be back later," she assured them.

Delphox, Pancham, and Sylveon all looked quite pleased with themselves for helping, and Delphox eyed Pikachu, who was waiting to walk down with the girl, with a look of warning, as though to take good care of Serena. Pikachu rubbed the back of his head with a small sweatdrop behind its ear.

"Okay! Goodbye, everyone!" Serena called back one last time a bit breathlessly as she stuffed her keys in her purse and then held the door open for Pikachu. "Aren't you coming?"

Pikachu smiled and shook his head.

Meanwhile,Ash bounced up and down on the tips of his toes. Every so often, he'd steal a glance at his reflection in a nearby window, using the darkened glass to ensure he looked okay. He was pretty nervous. But this felt more like him. Aliquis's tips and pointers on dating and "wooing" a girl with over-the-top romantic gestures was great and all, but Ash just felt uncomfortable with all of that. Besides, he didn't really care where they went as long as they spent time together, and maybe Serena felt the same way if what Arven said was true—about her liking him for himself.

As Serena emerged from the building, the moon cast a gentle glow over her, highlighting her features in a soft, ethereal light. She looked beautiful. The moonlight seemed to weave a silver halo around her, making the moment feel all the more magical.

Ash, upon seeing her, felt a surge of emotions that momentarily rooted him to the spot. His heart raced, a flutter sending a warm rush through his veins. He stood a little stiffly, caught between wanting to run up to her and maintaining a composed exterior. Watching Serena approach, he couldn't help but admire how the moonlight played across her face, accentuating her smile and the sparkle in her eyes.

"Hi," she greeted, a bit winded from earlier. Despite the casualness of her greeting, there was a warmth to her tone that made Ash's heart skip a beat. "Do you want to leave Wattrel and Charcadet in the room too? Pancham has the TV on, and Delphox and Pikachu will watch everyone."

Ash blinked, his mouth hanging open a little at her. A dull thrum began in his veins and seemed to peak, making his palms sweat and his voice catch in his throat. It took him a moment to gather his thoughts and recover. "Good idea!" the young champion grinned and released his two new familiars. Charcadet and Wattrel bounced around them excitedly before Serena let them in the building after giving them the room number to her apartment.

Serena quickly made sure everything was locked up securely before turning back to Ash. He was captivated, his gaze fixed on her, unable to tear his eyes away. He was so caught up in the moment, admiring Serena's beauty and the warmth of her smile, that he almost forgot to breathe.

"Okay! Where to?" Serena pulled him back to reality, her expression bright and expectant. She adjusted the strap of her purse then clasped her hands behind her back

Her warm, patient stare comforted Ash, and he jerked his head to the south, the same direction as the wind. "This way!" he began excitedly, and held himself back from jumping and running towards the Southern Gate. But there was a strange adrenaline coursing through him.

In the quieter parts of the city, the night wrapped around Serena and Ash like a cloak. Light from the occasional street lamp pooled on the cobblestones, guiding their steps. Their shadows, long and intertwined, danced beside them, merging and parting with the rhythm of their walk. The sound of distant laughter or the clink of glasses from a nearby bar occasionally reached their ears, a reminder of the city's ongoing life beyond their solitary path.

Buildings, ancient and stoic, stood sentinel on either side. Windows, some lit, others dark, hinted at the myriad lives unfolding within. Every so often, a breeze would stir, carrying the scent of sweet fried foods.

Ash's glances towards Serena, frequent and fleeting, were tinged with admiration and a hint of disbelief that she was there, by his side. Serena, catching his eye, would smile, a simple curve of her lips that lit her face.

"You were great tonight, by the way," Ash began, having struggled the last ten minutes or so to think of something to say. He had just been watching her take in the city's nightlife—vibrant and alive with color. "I can tell the other girls love working with you."

Serena turned to him, the warm glow of a street sign on her face, "You were there?"

"Of course!" Ash nodded vigorously, "I told you that I'd support you no matter what! And I want to be there whenever I can, remember?"

Serena turned away so sharply that Ash at first thought that he had upset her. However, Serena looked as though she were trying to compose herself, a soft glisten in her eyes. Ash grew worried.

"Guillermo didn't like it," she forced out a bit thickly. She swallowed and turned back to Ash, "the show, that is. He wanted it to be a real Showcase, but I told him the girls weren't ready." Serena then explained to Ash how she had changed the show's format to accommodate the new performers and give them a chance to win audience support. She knew a regular Showcase wouldn't have been fair. How would they really be promoting Showcases if all they were doing was setting the new girls up to lose?

"But then," Serena sighed, rubbing her arms as they ventured across Mesagoza's southern bridge and out of the city. The sound of water flowing steadily beneath the channel filled the air, a constant, soothing murmur that contrasted with the whirl of emotions Serena had just shared. "Guillermo essentially threatened to put on a real Showcase, or else it's all over."

Serena bit her lip as though trying to hold back the tears. Ash noticed her expression immediately and his instincts kicked in; he reached out to stop her, taking her gently by the arm and turning her to him. For a moment, they stood there silently, lone figures on the bridge.

Ash, not knowing what else to do—caught between an intense rage towards Guillermo and a feeling of protectiveness on Serena's behalf—as well as a deeply growing affection for her, pulled the girl closer and closer until Ash found himself wrapping his arms around her.

At first, Serena's body tensed within Ash's embrace, the unexpectedness of his hold kept her rigid. But as seconds stretched into moments, the initial stiffness dissolved, warmth seeping into the spaces between them. Gradually, her arms, which had hung awkwardly by her sides, moved. With cautious tenderness, they wrapped around Ash, her hands finding their place on his back, completing the circle of their embrace.

Allowing her head to rest against his shoulder, Serena found a comfort she hadn't realized she was seeking. She could hear Ash's rapid heartbeat against her ear. She focused on her breathing, attempting to calm the flutter in her own chest, her pulse racing in tandem with his.

For his part, Ash was feeling all sorts of things he couldn't name as the scent of her hair, fresh and light, lingered in his nose. The warmth of her breath against his skin sent a wave of heat across his face, a physical reaction to their closeness he hadn't anticipated. He felt her relax in his hands. He was getting dizzy, and so he began to pull away. He looked at her, and then remembered why he'd brought her to him in the first place.

"You did the right thing," he said, and offered her the best smile he could given how intoxicated he felt. Really, he couldn't have formed a coherent thought if he'd been asked. He was speaking on autopilot. "And you'll figure something out. I believe in you."

Serena peered up at him and nodded numbly, not in much better shape than he was. She also found it best to pull away, for the sake of regaining clarity again.

As they began to step away from each other, a lingering reluctance wrapped around them, an unspoken wish to maintain the connection just a moment longer. Instead of releasing her completely, Ash found a compromise, his hand slipping hers in a gesture that was both bold and uncertain. He laced his fingers around both glanced down at their hands for a moment, both wondering what it meant.

"I've, uh," Ash began, sensing the need to explain himself, but then he grinned past the light color on his face, "I've been wanting to do that for a little while now."

Serena's hand felt soft and delicate, and Ash was almost afraid he was going to break it. However, he pressed her tighter, wanting to feel close to her.

Serena looked at him, her blue eyes flashing with something Ash couldn't name. "You've held my hand before, you know," she attempted to say with a coy smile though the edges of her lips faltered ever so slightly.

"Yeah, but," with his other hand, Ash scratched the back of his head, "those times I always felt like I was dragging you somewhere or we were always going to see something." He gave her hand a firm squeeze, affirming something new, something intentional. "I've never held your hand like this. When we don't have anywhere to be. Not really."

Serena continued to watch him, trying to read the toothy grin on his face. "Hmm," she sighed, her moonlit eyes only adding to the dreamy glaze that seemed to pass over her features. "So you've been wanting to do this for a little while," she repeated his words back to him, the coquettish smile returning now more confidently. They continued walking along the bridge.

Ash's blush deepened. He had been thinking of more than just holding her hand, but he pushed that thought away. He only nodded, a bit slack jawed.

He guided them away from the bustling streets of Mesagoza towards Los Platos, his steps confident yet unhurried. The grip of their hands remained unbroken as they ventured onto a path less traveled, leading towards an open meadow. Surrounded by stony cliffs, the meadow unfolded under the night sky, a hidden gem bathed in moonlight.

The moon, full and luminous, cast a silver sheen over the grass, the blades shimmering as if dusted with frost. Shadows from the surrounding cliffs stretched across the meadow, creating patterns that shifted with the warm breeze. This breeze, gentle and comforting, carried the subtle scent of wildflowers, their colors muted in the night yet present in the crisp air.

Above, the sky was a canvas of clarity, stars twinkling in the vast expanse, undimmed by city lights. The tranquility of the meadow under the full moon offered a stark contrast to the city's energy, a peaceful haven that felt worlds apart from the noise and light.

"This is beautiful, Ash!" Serena beamed, her face full of starlight.

Ash grinned back at her, "Yeah? You think so?" He looked quite pleased with himself, gazing out over the expanse. Then, as if remembering, Ash chuckled and removed his hand from Serena's a moment to reach for Koraidon's pokéball. "I almost forgot," Ash said, throwing the sphere and letting the Pokémon out.

With a swift motion, he tossed the sphere into the air, and Koraidon emerged in a display of grace and power. The Pokémon stood tall, its red scales catching the moonlight to shimmer like embers. It shook its body, the scales rustling with a sound akin to leaves in a gentle wind.

Koraidon turned its large, gold eyes upon them, an intelligence gleaming within. It stepped forward, its movements deliberate and regal, as it approached Serena. With a gentle curiosity, the Pokémon extended its snout, inhaling her scent.

Serena laughed as Koraidon's gentle snort playfully tousled her hair. "Hi, Koraidon," she greeted happily, "you look great!"

Koraidon, in response, seemed to puff up slightly, its chest expanding with pride. The Pokémon turned its dragon-like head, its gaze questioning as it looked back at Ash, seeking guidance or perhaps permission.

Ash responded with an open-handed gesture. "Go wherever you want! Just be safe! We'll, uh, be here for a little while," Ash smiled sheepishly at the Pokémon, scratching his cheek.

Koraidon nodded and changed forms, taking off into the meadow to seemingly test out its new strength.

Ash watched the Pokémon go, a little worried. He glanced around them and didn't see anyone in sight. The young champion then looked back at Serena, who was also watching the horizon where Koraidon had disappeared to, seemingly lost in thought. She was chewing on her lip as though deliberating to do or say something.

Ash gently took her hand again, gesturing to the grass. "Um," Ash grimaced, realizing that he should have brought a blanket, "Would you like to sit?"

"Sure," Serena, sensing his regret, gave his hand a quick, reassuring squeeze.

The two of them sat in the silver-tipped grass together, nearly shoulder to shoulder. Ash didn't let go of her hand, feeling that anchor of peace he always felt around her, but ten fold at that moment. Being close to her like this was something amazing, Ash realized. While his heart was beating like a set of erratic drums, and his nerves were all jumbled up in his chest and his throat felt thick, Ash couldn't help but feel his next steps, his evolving dreams, becoming a little more clear—or a little more tangible. He couldn't explain it. He shook his head as though to change the direction of his thoughts.

"So how was the rest of your week?" Serena asked, studying Ash, sensing his nerves.

Ash, whose eyes had been on their hands, glanced back up at her. One corner of his mouth turned upwards, "It was great! I'm keeping up with all of my classes, thanks to Nemona's crazy late night study sessions. In Battle Studies we've just been doing basics. Even for Field Practice, we just trained our Pokémon on our own using some tips Dendra gave us. She wants us to be ready for the Terastal Raid next week. Blitz practice was more fun after Monday—and I'm pretty excited about the scrimmage tomorrow!"

"You're going to be pretty tired, don't you think?" Serena giggled, her eyes glittering at Ash's enthusiasm and then crinkling in amusement as his features deflated.

He laughed too. "It's okay. I'll sleep on the bus. This is worth it!" he declared happily.

Serena took a tranquilizing breath. She could feel herself panicking a little; her palms grew slightly damp, which mortified her and didn't help the situation. She was about to ask something else to try and take her mind off the significance of everything, when Ash shifted towards her.

"Hey Serena," he began, his dark eyes intensifying on her, "can I ask you a question?"

Serena swallowed thickly and only nodded. Through their intertwined hands, she could feel both of their heartbeats sharing a similar, quick rhythm.

Ash paused, nervous. "Um, so," he drew in a deep breath, "why did you kiss me? All those years ago? You've really liked me for that long?" His eyes looked a little anxious as he looked up at, his face tilted downward slightly.

Liked me…the words bounced around Serena's skull. Liked him? It was so much more than that. She wanted to say so, to tell him everything, but her lips were clamped shut around her true feelings. It took her a long pause before she felt like she could breathe again and answer.

"Well," she started, deciding to focus on a different aspect of the kiss, "you know how I struggled with confidence and believing in myself when we first started our journey in Kalos, right?"

Ash nodded.

"You were a big reason why I started to overcome my doubts and insecurities," Serena smiled, gripping his hand tightly, "I owed a lot to you, Ash. I still do. You helped me find my passion, pursue my dreams, instilled in me the drive to never back down…By the end of our time together, I was ready to take on whatever came next—no matter what! And, well, it was hard for me to say goodbye to you, but I also knew it was important for me to do some things for myself. To continue to grow into someone strong and capable—someone you would be proud of," Serena paused, "and so I kissed you. More because it was like a promise to myself to never give up—to be bold and confident. To take chances and risks." Serena looked up into the sky. "It was like I was setting my goals in stone…" her voice trailed off into the deep night.

Ash just watched her, his eyes twinkling a bit in awe.

Serena turned back to him when he didn't respond. She smiled, reassuringly. "I guess I should thank you, Ash. You really have helped me become the person I am today. It has always meant the world that you believe in me so much,"

Ash shook his head, incredulous. "I don't see how, though. You've always been strong—ever since the beginning. You would have found your way even if I hadn't come along."

Serena sighed, beginning to absently play with the grass by her folded legs. "Maybe," she whispered, "but you helped me get here regardless, and no matter what you say, I'll always be grateful to you for that. And it will always be part of the reason why I…like you." She finished hurriedly, shifting her position a little, bumping into his shoulder as she did.

After another pause where the breeze blew across the meadow, Serena stole a glance at Ash from beneath her gold lashes. He seemed to be lost in thought. "So," she started, "how did you feel, you know, when I kissed you?" She suddenly wanted to know.

Ash moved their intertwined hands closer to him, his other hand almost absently tracing her delicate fingers. Serena felt her breath hitch. "I didn't know how to feel about your kiss for a long time," he finally replied honestly, looking seriously at her, "actually, I think I tried to forget about it."

The words stung, and Serena found herself almost instinctively taking back her hand, but Ash's grip tightened around hers and he suddenly grew worried at the idea of having offended her.

"But that was only because I think I was a little scared," he added quickly, wanting to clarify.

Serena blinked, "Scared?" She had not really known Ash to be scared of anything.

Ash chuckled nervously, a little uncomfortable at how vulnerable he suddenly felt. "Yeah, I was scared of what the kiss meant. And I was scared by how I might feel if I really started to think about it," he admitted, staring at their hands, only glancing quickly at her to see her reaction. "But every time I saw you—at Lilycove, on TV, here in Paldea—the memory would just start to come up again. I wasn't sure why."

Serena looked away from him, her lips pursed. "I see," she lied. She wasn't sure what he was getting at. She felt a strange mix of pain and excitement at hearing him speak about it all.

"I don't," Ash chuckled, removing his cap for a moment to run a hand through his hair as if he was still a little confused. However, he turned to smile at her. "But that's okay! I'll figure it out!"

That was not very helpful. In her frustration, Serena felt herself growing more bold. "But when did you start seeing me as more than a friend, Ash? What does that mean to you exactly?"

Ash only shrugged. But there was a toothy grin spreading across his cheeks. "I think part of me stopped seeing you as just a friend a long time ago…it just became really clear as soon as you stepped out on stage in the Welcome Ceremony," a little shimmer entered his dark gaze as he looked at her almost anew, transporting the two of them back to that night. "I remember wanting you to see me so badly—to find me, because I felt like it was important that you knew I was there. That's when I think I started to feel different. Or—at least—that's when I started to realize that you meant more to me than just a friend because seeing you then, and now, kind of made me feel…." Ash began to rub his jaw, feeling it clench as the right words seemed to escape him. "Even in Kalos, you always had a way of making me settle down about certain things. Helping me make more sense of my dreams; reminding me about what I needed to do to keep going!"

"Ash," his name slipped out from her, though she couldn't say what she was feeling exactly. It was a strange combination; a concoction of elation and disappointment. She was realizing that he wasn't quite where she wanted him to be, but he was heading in that direction. She shouldn't push him, she knew. She couldn't ask what she really wanted to ask. Three little words—with a big one somewhere in between.

Do you love me?

No. She really couldn't ask it. Her lips would freeze over the word "love" before she could get it out anyway. And she didn't want to scare Ash—or herself—by unearthing her own true feelings. Maybe it was better to wait. To let Ash figure out what he was feeling exactly since it seemed he was in a process of constant discovery.

"You know, I want to be those things to you too, Serena," Ash continued gently, leaning in closer to her as though to grab her attention again. He had noticed her eyes glaze over in thought and he had begun to grow a little distressed. "Like, I know this shouldn't be all about me and how I feel. I want you to feel," suddenly the word came to him and Ash's face brightened significantly, "Safe! I want you to feel safe with me. Just like how I feel safe with you!"

Serena let out a shuddering breath as she gazed deeply into him. "I do feel safe with you Ash," she allowed herself to admit, trying not to let the admission betray any deeper meaning, "I've always felt safe with you."

Ash nodded, seemingly satisfied for the moment. He shifted back to sit side-by-side with her. A comfortable silence settled over the two as they looked out over the darkened horizon. Serena felt more at ease, realizing that this was okay. This was wonderful. They could take things slow and figure things out together. Serena let go of Ash's hand for a moment only to remove her cardigan so that she could lay it on the grassy meadow to then throw herself down upon.

Ash watched her, smiling, before eagerly laying down beside her. The two of them looked up at the night sky.

"So," Serena began, her fingers playing with a delicate flowering weed she'd plucked from the ground. "What was it like to become Champion of the World, Ash? What did it feel like to finally achieve part of your dream?"

"It was...unreal," he started, his voice a murmur in the quiet of the meadow. "You have this idea of what it'll be like, you know? And you work towards it, but when it actually happens..." Ash paused, grinning. "It's like every battle, every journey, every friend I've made along the way just flashed before my eyes."

Serena watched him speak, her fingers still idly toying with the weed, twirling it between her fingers. She sensed the depth of his experience in his thoughtful pause, the way his eyes seemed to hold the glow of stars.

"It felt like confirmation," Ash continued, "that every step, every challenge, was worth it. And it made me realize it's not just about reaching the top. It's about the people you meet, the Pokémon you bond with, and the person you become on that path."

Serena nodded, understanding more than he might realize. Her eyes turned back to the sky, reflecting the vastness above them. "I think that's true for all dreams," she said softly. "They're not just destinations. They're entire worlds we build, bit by bit."

"I wish you had been there to see it," Ash admitted, a hint of wistfulness in his tone, as if he could reimagine that moment with her by his side.

"I did see it," Serena replied immediately, fervently; her eyes locking onto his with an intensity that spoke of her shared joy in his triumph.

Ash picked his head up with surprise. "You did?" His question carried the echo of that day's victory, the disbelief still fresh as if the title had just been placed in his hands

"I watched it live on TV. Just before a Contest Spectacular. I watched it with May." Her words limned the picture of her seated before the screen, eyes wide with anticipation, living each moment as if she stood beside him in the arena.

The smile that spread across Ash's face was broad and infectious. He propped himself on his elbow, angling his body to face her more directly. "What did you think?" The question was casual, but his eyes held a spark of curiosity.

Serena rolled her eyes. "Ash, you were incredible. You know that."

A slightly arrogant gleam passed through his eyes. "Well, I wanted to hear you say it."

Serena snorted and turned to give him a playful shove, which sent them both on their backs, laughing.

"So you got to know May?" Ash asked, curious.

"I did!" Serena replied brightly, "We got to talk all about when she traveled with you too. Seems like she also learned a lot from you…"

However, Serena's brightness dimmed just a little as she remembered how May had spoken about Ash and their travels. The performer—while excited to hear everything—had felt a little void forming in her. It wasn't that she had been jealous, not at all, but to hear someone else also be inspired by Ash made her feel a little…well, not so special. It made her feel like a number on the long list of people who Ash had influenced. Or just another traveling companion, because from May, she had also heard about Dawn, and another girl named Misty—who even May didn't know too much about. Ash had traveled with so many people, and Serena had begun to grow a bit disillusioned about the sacred aura she had placed around her own time with the Kanto boy. Maybe their travels hadn't been as special to him as it had been to her.

Not really helping her internal spiraling, Ash added, "Yeah, she's a great friend."

Serena sighed, trying not to let his words bother her as much as they did for some reason. "I heard you traveled with a lot of girls that were great friends," she found herself saying, and she had meant to say the words with a little more grace, but they came out rather pettishly.

So pettishly, in fact, that Ash caught on. He began to laugh though the sound took on a different note, one that seemed to probe the sudden shift in Serena's demeanor, "What's that supposed to mean?" He turned to her again, shifting his body and resting his head on a propped up hand.

Serena rubbed her temples, a little embarrassed. "Nothing, really," she attempted to backtrack, her voice softening, but the words felt insufficient even as they left her lips.

A pause stretched, filled with the sounds of the night, before she surrendered to honesty. "I just meant that, well, May told me about some of your other traveling companions and, well, I guess I just started to feel…not all that significant," she offered with a wince. The admission was like a window briefly opened, allowing Ash a glimpse into her insecurities.

Ash blinked, and then a slow, understanding smile. "You got jealous?"

Serena dropped the flower and began to stammer, soothing her clothes a bit frantically. "I wouldn't say that," she tried, but her tongue grew heavy and awkward, "I just, well—I began to think, um—well that maybe I just…I don't know."

Ash reached over to grab her hand again and reassure her. "I've been jealous about you too," he found himself blurting, mostly to make her not feel too bad, but also confess the fact as if it had been a secret he didn't want to keep from her.

Serena looked surprised. "When?" She nearly laughed, wondering why on earth he would feel jealous over her.

Ash appeared a little embarrassed. "Well, Arven said it wasn't a bad thing," he said, almost trying to qualify whatever he was about to say next. "But when other guys look at or talk to you weird. Or when you were dancing…," Ash shook off the thought, not wanting to think about it.

"Is that why you left that one day?" Serena's mind was racing to put the pieces together, feeling a little giddy all of sudden. She had always hoped there was something unique about her relationship with Ash, something that set her apart in his heart. "Ash!" She laughed, squeezing his hand to soothe him, "You know I don't care about what other guys say about me. And when I'm dancing with a partner, I don't put any special meaning to it. It's just dancing."

Ash sighed and rubbed his eye with his palm. "Yeah, I know," he laughed dryly, but her words made him feel better. He then blinked as his vision adjusted and he took in Serena, the moonlight blanketing her form. His mind wandered back to how they got on the subject in the first place and flashed with images of his past traveling companions. He gripped Serena's hand tighter. "I've never felt about any of my other friends the way I feel about you," Ash found himself shaking a little as he admitted this and he had no idea why. But he felt like Serena needed to know this because it was true. She had always been different.

Serena felt her heart tighten and threaten to stop beating all together. It was her turn now to move onto her side and face him. She felt like she was glowing; rising to the surface of something like a bubble. She wanted to act on this feeling, but she restrained herself. She didn't want to push Ash into anything he wasn't comfortable with yet, and part of her also wanted him to take the lead…Just like how he had reached for her hand, Serena wanted Ash to keep reaching for her. She was willing to go at his pace as long as he never stopped pulling her towards him.

But she also wanted to encourage him. The boy from Pallet town looked a bit terrified at everything he'd just admitted and was looking anywhere but at her—his gaze darting to the stars, the grass, the distant outline of the cliffs—to escape the intensity of her gaze while their faces remained only a foot apart as they laid sideways in the grass.

Serena released her hand from his and reached out, her touch light but deliberate, lifting Ash's hat from his head. She removed it rather deftly with a small, coy smile, and set it on the ground between them. Then, she leaned towards him again. She began to thread her fingers through his thick, raven-colored hair. She had always wanted to feel it.

Ash stood very very still, almost unbreathing. He felt his eyes, which had found their way back to her, glaze over a bit as he tried to memorize the sensation of her fingertips massaging his head. He felt suddenly drowsy, and his imagination briefly flickered to the thought of just falling asleep in this field while he held Serena's hand. He had no idea where that idea came from, but he thought it sounded rather nice.

She had really only spent a few seconds pushing Ash's hair away from his face, feeling the rather coarse texture of his hair. She noticed Ash's drooping eyes and giggled. She stopped her little ministration, much to Ash's disappointment, and then snatched the hat she'd laid on the floor. Playfully, she placed it on her own head backwards and sat up.

"Look, now I'm the Pokémon Master," she laughed, also a bit dazed from exhaustion but feeling incredibly happy and light.

Ash sat up as well, grinning. "Wait, you have to wear it this way," he snorted, reaching over to her to readjust the cap's bill so that it faced forwards. He leaned back, admiring his handiwork with his arms folded across his chest, "I have to say, it looks pretty cute on you."

Serena nearly fell over but she quickly recovered, countering, "Well, you know, it's not the first time I've worn a hat of yours," she grinned, winking at him.

"I remember," Ash nodded, his own smile widening at the memory, as well as a small blush dusting his cheeks. His eyes wandered past her face for some reason, halting at her neck. Suddenly, he remembered something else he'd wanted to address. "Hey Serena," he started, "Why did you stop wearing the ribbon I gave you? If you still liked me, I mean."

Serena shivered and not from the cold. Ash just had a way of asking the most pointed questions as if they were nothing and it was starting to wear her down a little. Sighing, Serena removed his hat from her head and moved it between her hands as if inspecting it.

"I just didn't want to rely on it too much, I think," Serena found herself speaking simultaneously as the thoughts formed. "I treasured that ribbon, Ash. I really did, but…I think maybe I treasured it a little too much for a while."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked earnestly, staring at her for answers.

Serena shrugged. "Like you said, I liked you," with one hand she drew circles in the grass, "but I realized I needed to stop needing you."

Ash waited.

"When I first got to Hoenn, I had a really hard time, Ash. Contests were difficult—learning how to navigate the Battle Stages was really hard for Delphox, Pancham, Sylveon, and me. We didn't win anything for a long, long time and I wasn't…in a great place for a little while during that transition," Serena sighed. "But I got through it. With my Pokémon. We never gave up, worked hard, and learned what we had to do. But that whole experience made me realize that maybe I had relied on people a little too much in the past. I mean, traveling around Hoenn was the first time I really traveled by myself, and I learned a lot about who I was during that time. I didn't have anyone else to lean on, after all!"

She gave a short little laugh and looked back up at Ash, who seemed to be frozen in place as he listened. She went on, smiling at him reassuringly, his hat still in one of her hands. "It was the best thing for me, really. It was hard. But it was good. I am strong, Ash, I do know that now. But I can…fixate on things…things I want…and those things can sometimes start to feel like things I need to be happy, when that's not necessarily true." Serena then smiled brilliantly, the full force of the moon on her face, "Happiness is a choice! We can choose to be happy even when we don't have things we want or when things aren't going our way! So I decided I was going to choose to be happy with myself and who I'd become. Funny enough, from there my confidence only grew and about the time I chose to let go of certain things I wanted—or things I felt like I needed to be happy—my team and I started winning. I felt more free."

She was still smiling when she finished, a bit breathless and flushed from her excitement, as though she were reliving the moment she'd had that epiphany. As she came down from her high, Serena noticed a little confused frown on Ash's face. She took his hat and leaned forward, placing it back on his head with a playful tug at the bill.

"I still have your ribbon, Ash," she said quietly, as they both sat there, kneeling on the grass, "but I just needed to go without it for a little while. To keep working on myself. To keep growing and getting stronger. Without you."

Ash nodded, turning from her a moment to squint into the horizon. "I'm sorry you had a really hard time at first. And that you were alone," he breathed, sinking farther back onto his heels looking almost distraught, "You know, if you had called or messaged me or—something! I would have been there if you needed, I—,"

Serena hushed him with two fingers pressed gently to his mouth. Then, she guided his chin to turn him back to face her. "You're missing the point, Ash," she continued patiently, but still smiling, "it was important for me to go through all of that. Think about it: haven't you ever had to go through difficult things alone? But didn't you feel like you grew so much from it after the fact?"

The young champion exhaled slowly, the impression of her finger still lingering on his lips. He offered her a very small, crooked smile, "Yeah, I guess so." Still, he didn't like the thought of Serena going through hard things alone. He wanted to be there for her. In the end, however, Ash did understand what she was saying. "You really are amazing," he sighed, stretching his legs out in front of him and leaning back on his arms.

Serena adjusted her legs beneath her skirt. "Thanks, Ash," she murmured, catching sight of Koraidon still playing down in the lower part of the meadow. She sighed softly, "I guess I did miss having you around to tell me that whenever I felt down."

"Well," Ash grinned. "I'd like to be around now to tell you, if that's okay?"

Serena's eyes flashed. She didn't know how to tell him that she'd only heard him say things like that in her dreams. If Serena were being candid with herself, she had not been completely forthright about the ribbon. She had also partly given up the ribbon because she believed it had started to represent a goal that was…unattainable. But she was terrified to even entertain the thought that now the goal might be in reach.

As the intimate moment between Ash and Serena lingered, the rustle of grass announced Koraidon's return. Ash stood up to welcome the majestic Pokémon back. He approached Koraidon with a smile, extending his hand to affectionately rub its snout.

Serena, too, rose to her feet, joining Ash by Koraidon's side. She reached out, her touch gentle and curious on the Pokémon's scales, feeling the warmth and power beneath. Koraidon responded with a deep, contented yawn, its body language softening as it nudged Ash's hip with its head, a silent request to return to the comfort of its pokéball.

Understanding Koraidon's wish, Ash took out the red and white sphere, holding it up before the Pokémon. With a nod of acknowledgment, Koraidon was enveloped in a beam of red light, returning to its pokéball in a quiet, seamless transition.

"I guess we should head back," Ash said, a bit disappointed. He didn't want the night to end. He felt like he could talk to Serena about anything, but that they were only scratching the surface of things. He found himself wanting to tell her about all his past adventures: the hard things he went through, the lessons he learned. He knew that she would love to hear all these things and he just couldn't wait to share them. Maybe this was what dates were for, Ash wondered—to keep getting to know the other person, but in a deeper way. This realization suddenly made the whole idea of dating infinitely less daunting and actually more exciting to Ash, who declared with a raised fist, "I can't wait to take you on more dates!"

"Oh?" Serena started at his sudden enthusiasm. They began walking back to the city, "Why do you say that?"

Ash gave her a toothy grin as he reached to grab her hand again. "I want you to tell me everything! About all the adventures you had without me, about the things that are important to you," he nodded, determined, "and I'll tell you more about my past journeys and stuff too! It's going to be great!"

Serena could only smile and try not to let herself fall even more deeply head over heels with the boy from Pallet Town. It took everything in her to keep from that edge. She wasn't sure if she'd succeeded.

---

Delphox peered anxiously from the balcony window, her ear twitching. It was nearly 3:30 a.m. Where could they be? In her opinion, nothing ever decent ever happened after midnight, but she wasn't going to tell Serena that with how excited her trainer had been to step out on her first date.

Pikachu tapped Delphox's shoulder, pointing again to Pancham and Charcadet wrestling on the bed. Some of the sheets caught fire from Charcadet's perpetual flame. Wattrel, taking on the role of referee with earnest, fluttered around the battling duo. Its squawks were authoritative, attempting to bring some order to the match. It counted down loudly whenever it deemed one Pokémon had successfully pinned the other, though the bouts of wrestling seemed endless.

A vein throbbed at Delphox's temple. With a swift motion, she summoned Hidden Power to create a gentle but firm force that separated Pancham and Charcadet mid-tussle. Their limbs flailed in the air, still aiming for each other even as they floated apart. Delphox's glare was stern, a silent warning that attempted to quell their urge to resume their playful fight.

Meanwhile, Sylveon yawned on a nearby chair. "Syl, sylveon," she sighed, closing her eyes.

"Delphox!" Delphox barked sharply as though frustrated with the lack of help. "Del!"

"Pika," Pikachu sweatdropped, not really in the mood for bickering. He had had to watch Pancham and Charcadet go crazy over the Pokémon wrestling on the TV. He had been talking them out of performing their own number for hours, but finally, it seemed like the two had just gotten too restless or bored. Pikachu had suggested they could actually sleep, but Pancham had obstinately refused.

"Pan-chaaaam," the panda Pokémon had chuckled, making smooching noises towards Pikachu and Sylveon, the two at one point had dabbled in a confusing board game where they'd ended up just making up most of the rules.

Sylveon had snorted at Pancham's behavior, but seemed mildly intrigued by the idea of spying on the two. Delphox, on the other hand, had been adamantly against it, despite the fact that she kept careful watch over the city streets.

Suddenly, Wattrel's keen eyes spotted two figures walking towards the apartment. She began to call out loudly, chittering with excitement, and the Pokémon all exchanged glances. Momentarily frozen.

And then they all moved at once.

Quickly, they worked together to strip the burnt sheets from the bed, replacing them with a fresh set that Delphox conjured from the linen closet. The scraps of take-out containers (which Pancham had somehow managed to order) were swiftly gathered and disposed of, leaving no trace of their impromptu feast.

Books, toys, and various Pokémon accessories that had found their way onto the floor during the night's excitement were picked up and put back in their respective places, each Pokémon contributing to the tidying effort in their own way. Sylveon, with her graceful movements, assisted in draping the new sheets, her ribbons fluttering as she smoothed out the fabric.

As the room transformed back into its usual orderly state, the Pokémon congregated at the balcony's glass doors, their faces pressed against the pane in anticipation

With a paw to her mouth, Delphox motioned for them all to "hush." She turned off the lights and gently slid the balcony doors open so that they could all creep outside, staying low.

Down below, Ash and Serena made their way along the quiet street, their steps unhurried as they approached her apartment building. The Pokémon, from their vantage point a few levels up and to the side, watched intently as the two figures moved closer. Pancham started to yelp at the sight of them holding hands, but Sylveon covered his mouth with her ribbons.

Serena, standing at the entrance of her apartment building, began the familiar search for her keys with her free hand. The simple task seemed to take longer than usual, under the watchful eyes of the Pokémon hiding in the shadows above. They observed, curious and quiet, as a moment unfolded between the two humans

"Um," Serena began, her cheeks coloring with a soft blush as she turned to face Ash, "I had a really nice time tonight."

Ash blinked, certain gears in his head turning. But then he suddenly thought of Arven in a wig and he silently cursed to himself. That was not what he wanted to be thinking about right now.

"I, uh, did too," Ash cleared his throat, shifting his weight between his feet as he met her patient stare. He could do this. He could do this. But why was he shaking? He tried squeezing her hand in order to hide the trembling that started to spasm across his muscles. "We…we should do this again really soon."

"Yeah,"

There was a tense little silence. Ash's eyes kept dropping to Serena's lips, which seemed to part a little as if in invitation or in preparation to speak, casting a spell over Ash that he found himself helpless to resist. Yet, Serena's focus seemed to drift, her eyes looking just beyond the young champion, causing a flicker of confusion to dance across his features. Were they thinking about the same thing?

The answer was no, actually. While Ash seemed intent on trying to read whether or not the moment was right for a kiss (while unfortunately seeing too many visions of Arven), Serena was actually busy deliberating on whether or not she should tell Ash something more—something a little more substantial than, "I really like you" before she left him for the night.

In the end, for better or for worse, the quiet pause was interrupted by a sharp cry and a fiery meteor—that was really Charcadet—being hurled towards Ash.

Charcadet had been catapulted by Pancham after the fire sprite had accidentally—or intentionally, as Wattrel would later claim—set the panda Pokémon's rear on fire. The fiery projectile smacked right into Ash's trainer's face, sending the young champion onto the cobbled stone floor.

"Ash!" Serena yelped. Instantly, she looked up to see a bunch of eyes slowly retreating back behind the balcony balustrades. "Guys!"

The Pokémon all scrambled back inside the apartment in a rush of guilt and panic. Moments later, the interior lights flicked on, casting a warm, revealing glow onto the scene outside.

Serena, her heart racing from the shock, quickly turned her focus back to Ash. She extended her hand, her movements filled with concern, and helped him to his feet. Ash, still reeling from the unexpected assault, gingerly rubbed his charred face where Charcadet had made contact.

For his part, the fire Pokémon looked relatively unscathed, but awkwardly stood on the street until giving the couple a cheeky thumbs up.

Serena rolled her eyes and gestured for the Fire Child to trail behind them as she took a more supportive grip on Ash's arm. "Come on, we'll get you fixed up," she said with a gentle sigh. Despite the chaotic end to their evening, Serena found herself giggling at Ash's exaggerated response to his mishap. He leaned heavily into her, playing up his discomfort, which only made her laugh a bit more. Together, with Charcadet following sheepishly yet obediently, they made their way back into the building.

---

Next chapter will be more of a "in the day of the life" at Scarlet Academy. We'll see Battle Studies Class, Terrastal Caves, Student Council Meetings, Gary freaking out a little bit, Arven recovering from his trauma—all that good stuff. The chapter or two after that will be the gala/homecoming, which will open up the gym season and we'll see Ash beginning to collect some badges over the weekend. That's the vision anyway. We all know how well I stick to my plans. Haha—anyway, have a great next couple of weeks everyone :)