Happy Wednesday to you all! This chapter is shorter than I intended, but I've been busy! But Hope you all have been having a nice summer!
More notes about this chapter at the bottom.
Next chapter: July 18th or 19th
P.S. Chapter title is meant a bit ironically.
Chapter 25: The Esoterics
Gary shivered, his breath visible in the frosty air as he trudged up the steep trail on Glaseado Mountain. The path was lined with towering pine trees heavily laden with snow, their branches bending under the weight. Every step was a battle against the biting cold, and the crunch of his boots on the hardened snow resonated in the silent, icy expanse. He knew he was drawing close to the Glaseado Gym and its promise of a Pokémon Center. The thought of another night camping in the frigid clime was less than appealing.
As he ascended, the wind picked up, hurling tiny ice crystals against his face. A blizzard was brewing, swirling the snow into a furious dance around him. Gary groaned beneath his thermal mask, his voice muffled. Beside him, Umbreon's ears flattened against his head, his eyes squinting against the gusts.
"We need to find some cover," Gary said, his voice edged with urgency.
Looking up, his eyes widened behind his frost-rimmed goggles. Smoke was curling skyward from just over the next hill. Hope surged through him, and with renewed energy, he led Umbreon up the snow-covered crest. There, amidst the blinding white, a two-story building emerged, half-buried in snow. A sign, swinging wildly in the wind, barely made out through the blizzard, read "Taberna de Glaseado."
Gary's nose scrunched beneath his scarf, hoping that "taberna" meant tavern. His wish was confirmed as they drew nearer. The tavern was surprisingly bustling, a warm glow spilling from its windows. Inside, skiers and trainers mingled with snowboarders and mountain dwellers, all seeking refuge from the storm.
Peeling off his snow-caked gloves and unwrapping the scarf from around his neck, Gary made his way to the bar. He shed his heavy outer jacket, revealing a thermal fleece underneath, and took a seat. The bartender, noticing the new face, paused and looked at him expectantly.
"Something warm?" Gary managed, his teeth still chattering slightly.
A few old men at the bar chuckled, lifting their steaming mugs. "Pon algo en su café…" one of them called out, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
Despite his reservations about that twinkle, Gary watched, curious but cautious, as the bartender ignored the men and began concocting a drink involving nomel berry peel, coffee beans, cinnamon, and some clear liquid Gary didn't know the name of.
"Hola, muchacho. You a trainer? Hoping to challenge the gym?" an old man with a thick beard and weather-worn face inquired.
"Uh, not really…" Gary replied, hesitant.
"Then where are you heading?" another mountain hiker chimed in, his eyes sharp and probing while his Sneasel poked out from behind his broad back.
"North."
The hikers exchanged knowing looks and whistled softly. "Si, va a necesitar esa bebida…"
The main old hiker, his face crinkled like a well-used map and eyes bright with mischief, leaned closer. "Whispers say there is a powerful Pokémon blocking the path to the mountain peak. You cannot get through."
"And a powerful trainer—dressed in all black, tall, frightening figure—after it!" another added.
"It is probably a ghost…" someone muttered into his drink.
The bartender rolled his eyes. "Carlos, you and your men are always telling tall tales."
Gary's ears perked up at the mention of the mysterious figure. He glanced at the bartender, who finished preparing the researcher's drink before sliding it down the counter towards him.
Blinking and taking a much needed sip and wincing—trying not to cough as the drink burned his throat. Needless to say, he grew momentarily distracted from the tales being spun around him. Next time he would just stick with beer…or the hot chocolate. Actually, that had been a missed opportunity, Gary mentally groaned.
"Well, Alejandro?" Carlos urged with a teasing smile. "Aren't you superstitious yourself?"
Alejandro, the bartender, gave a crude gesture to the laughing men before walking away with a smirk to serve another customer.
Shaking his head, Gary turned on his barstool to face the old men and their Pokémon. "Tell me more…"
Larry, Ash, Brassius, and the others found themselves sinking into various sofas scattered throughout an eclectic sitting room within the gym. Brassius had ushered everyone into this cozy enclave not just for a casual chat, but to reveal what Larry had to say—overriding the businessman's preference for a more private meeting. It appeared that Brassius was eager to share his extensive ceramic mug collection, deciding that they should be put to use during a coffee break. While the beverages were being fixed, the artist reminded Ash that the young champion could keep his mug as a prize, which caught everyone's attention.
Bonnie immediately gravitated towards a Sprigatito mug, declaring it 'adorable' as she clutched it to her chest and asked for it to be filled with hot chocolate rather than coffee. The others picked their mugs with less enthusiasm, except for Ash, who browsed thoughtfully, considering which one Serena would appreciate the most. Eventually he chose a Roserade cup.
"Well, I suppose I missed quite the battle," Larry confessed, his fingers tapping a nervous rhythm on his chosen Weepinbell mug.
"It was truly—" Brassius began, pouring steaming coffee from a Victreebel-shaped pot.
"—avant-garde, we know," Bonnie interjected, swiftly snatching a biscuit from the table before Chespin could claim them all.
Brassius tutted at her interruption, but his eyes sparkled with pride. "Well, either way, Ash had excellent instincts—there is an inner artist in him yet!"
"He has the best instincts!" Bonnie grinned, her finger raised triumphantly. "And you didn't even see the half of it! He's sometimes like crazy fast, can bond with Pokémon with his mind, and—"
Clemont, foreseeing where Bonnie's unchecked enthusiasm might lead, quickly shoved a biscuit into her mouth, his laugh tinged with nervousness. He wasn't ready for her to divulge the full extent of the Tera Shard incident.
Brassius, intrigued by a snippet of Bonnie's declaration, glanced at Ash. "You had a Greninja while you were in Kalos, correct? That's the Pokémon the girl mentioned," he tilted his wild hair towards Bonnie, "that you bonded with, without a Mega Stone?"
Ash nodded slowly, puzzled by the sudden shift in conversation but aware that Larry seemed interested too.
Brassius's gaze danced with curiosity. "Well, you know I have always been interested in strange phenomena. Such things are wells of inspiration for an artist such as myself," he mused, giving Ash a speculative look. "A powerful bond between a trainer and a Pokémon is always something profound to witness. Theorists interested in occulture wonder how such bonds manifested in ancient times when devices such as Poké Balls or Mega Stones or Tera Orbs did not exist—they wonder how such abilities were transferred organically between trainer to Pokémon and Pokémon to trainer."
Larry shifted uncomfortably, his legs crossing and uncrossing as he set down his mug of steaming coffee, untouched.
"Occulture?" Goh asked, puzzled.
Brassius turned to him, as if noticing the cityboy for the first time. "The study of different realities besides the one in which we are currently living? Different energies existing in the world around us? That sort of thing. Again, it's all avant-garde," he said dismissively, but his knowing stare lingered on Ash.
Ash's curiosity spiked, though he tried to mask it. The conversation was veering uncomfortably close to discussions about his own unexplained…abilities. Again, however, he hadn't exactly kept some of the things he could do a secret. He'd Mega Evolved Greninja without a Mega Stone in front of thousands of people; and a good amount of people knew about his Aura bond with Lucario…but still, even if people were talking, it had to be all speculation. But Ash was curious as to what they were saying…
He recalled how an Aura Guardian named Riley had once explained that Ash's energy was called Aura, and how the ability allowed Ash to tap into some other realm of power. Since then, Ash had just kind of gone about his business—pursuing his dream of being a Pokémon Master—with all that info kind of on the back burner. But now, it seemed like his aura was getting…bigger. He didn't know how to explain it. He could just feel it more, like he had this energy he wasn't entirely sure as to how to tap into it, but that was also starting to need an outlet. Lately, he had been feeling this Aura sort of flare up when he Terrastalized his Pokémon—not that he had an explanation for that. But it was the same feeling he had gotten whenever he Mega Evolved Lucario, or even performed a Z-move with Pikachu. Like there was more he could do, if he just concentrated, but it seemed to demand a specific kind of focus he hadn't fully explored since helping Riley a long time ago.
As the room simmered with tense curiosity, Ash shifted to interrupt when Larry abruptly rose, clearing his throat with an awkward cough. "Brassius, we need to talk in private. It's serious," he stated, blinking a bit too rapidly.
Brassius, his thick, mossy eyebrows lifting in mild surprise, responded, "It's always so serious with you, Larry. And truly, you look more unwell than usual. You've not touched the food." He gestured towards the abundant spread on the coffee table, an assortment of treats. "You love food."
Larry's voice dropped to a somber whisper, as if he were announcing a grave matter, "I do really love food."
Bonnie, her nose wrinkling, eyed the two men. "What is there you have to talk about that Ash Ketchum, Monarch of the World, can't know about?" She had taken to her managerial role over Ash's affairs with earnestness, driven by both duty and a personal itch for knowledge.
Larry's dark eyes flicked nervously between Ash and Brassius, finally resting on Ash as if reassessing his plans in light of the champion's presence. "I didn't know you'd be here, Ash," he confessed with a sullen sigh.
Ash, not entirely sure what to do with that, could only gesture helplessly with his hands and shrug. "Yeah…"
Taking a measured sip of his black coffee, Brassius pressed on, "Your visit is more surprising, Larry. But at least, tell me—has Geeta returned from the void? Does she have new directives for us?" His bluntness, normally a trait Larry appreciated for its efficiency, seemed misplaced under the current cloak-and-dagger atmosphere.
"No. That's not why I'm here," Larry responded tersely, his expression tight.
Brassius, sensing the withheld information, adjusted his double-breasted jacket with a subtle smirk. "Well, now I'm really intrigued. The lines on your face tell me this is serious," he mused with a mischievous twinkle, "and secret. And you know how I adore secrets."
Ash, tired of the cryptic exchanges and evasions, interjected firmly, "Look, I was just here trying to get my gym badge, which I did. But if this is about Geeta, I think I should know what's going on."
Larry paced near the biscuits, eyeing them hungrily but distracted by his own thoughts. "It's actually not about Geeta. But I do know what you're doing—why you're in a rush now to grab your badges—it's smart," he said, cutting off any protest from Ash with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Clavell told me. But yeah, that being said, I just feel like you have a lot on your plate right now so I wanted to confirm some things before I brought a potentially new problem to you."
Before Ash could formulate a response, Brassius interjected with a tut and a pompously raised eyebrow. "So many secrets and not enough chisels to carve them out. First Geeta informs all the gym leaders about strange and mysterious Pokémon—whose existence we should be denying to the masses—then La Primera goes missing, next—"
Larry, growing more agitated, cut him off with a sharp clearing of his throat and a stern look. "Maybe," he hissed through gritted teeth, "I should come back another time."
Ash rubbed his temples in frustration. "Wait, wait, wait—Geeta told all the gym leaders about Miraidon and Koraidon?"
Larry nearly toppled over. "Well, this sucks."
"Miraidon and Koraidon? What are those?" Brassius questioned, genuinely perplexed.
"What is he talking about?" Ash demanded, looking frantically at Larry.
Larry, at his wit's end, threw up his hands in defeat. "Okay, whatever. I give up. I'm working too damn hard as a juggler when that is not in my job description," he conceded, turning his focus back to Ash. "Remember how I told you about a meeting Geeta called us to? Before the gala? The night she disappeared?"
Ash nodded slowly, his jaw clenched in anticipation.
Larry continued, his voice strained, "Well, it was a meeting to warn the other gym leaders about Paradox Pokémon roaming around and being spotted by civilians. And she was not talking about Miraidon or Koraidon, but others—like Silver Wings, which apparently you encountered. These Pokémon are being written about in conspiracy theorists' blogs and magazines and stuff as they're being spotted more and more. And so Geeta wanted us to be on the lookout for any whiff of people talking about these Pokémon so that we could stomp out the rumors and deny their existence…"
"But why? Don't we want people to know what Tera Industries is really up to?" Ash asked, confusion and frustration swirling within him.
Brock, who had been listening intently, wondered aloud, "And I thought Geeta was pretty bent on taking the company down. She's been pretty public about her intentions…"
"That's what all of us have been asking, and what I wanted to know before Geeta vanished," Larry admitted, throwing his hands up dramatically.
"For an Elite Four member, you are very much uninformed," Brassius remarked, deadpanned.
"Tell me about it," Larry shot back, mirroring Brassius's expression.
Clemont, adjusting his glasses so they glinted under the light, chimed in, "So these Paradox Pokémon are being noticed by the public? Where can I find the articles on them? Where are they being seen?"
Ash quickly explained, before Larry's dismay could deepen, "Clemont's a scientist from Kalos, and he's been working with Clavell to study Terra Caves and their connection to Paradox Pokémon." He carefully omitted the deeper investigations into Tera Shards and their impact on himself.
Clemont nodded in agreement. "Clavell is also eager to get any Paradox Pokémon before Tera Industries. We have no idea what the company plans to do with them, and we want the Pokémon returned to where they belong."
Larry glanced at Brassius, whose brows were still furrowed in thought. "Well, I think it goes without saying you'll need to keep your mouth shut about certain things. I know how much you artists love to gossip."
"It is not gossip—it is the intellectual exchange of ideas!" Brassius retorted, clearly irked.
"Sure, sure," Larry replied dismissively.
Bonnie, pointing accusingly at Larry, demanded with feigned sweetness, "You still haven't told us why you're here, Mr. Businessman. If it's not about this Geeta lady, then what is it?"
"Ah, true," Brassius echoed, sharing Bonnie's sugary grin.
Larry cursed under his breath, clearly hoping his original intentions would fade into the background. "I have…questions…"
The room fell silent, everyone's attention fixed on Larry as he sighed, resigning himself to the inevitable. "Sensitive questions…questions only those weird occult societies you 'discourse' with would probably know."
"We prefer to be called esoterics," Brassius corrected him mildly.
"Arceus," Larry muttered under his breath.
"Didn't you just say you were occulturists or something?" Goh asked, puzzled by the terminology.
Brassius, visibly annoyed, clarified, "I said that we are a society who takes interest in studying occulture. But that is not all we are interested in." He gestured around the room towards his paintings and other artwork, indicating the breadth of his hobbies.
Brock, taking in the room's decor, noted aloud, "Are a lot of these paintings based on myths and legends?" He observed the depictions of legendary Pokémon from across the world, as well as a figure with blue hair surrounded by six powerful-looking Pokémon, some of which were legendary creatures Brock recognized.
Soon enough, Ash stood abruptly, nearly spilling his coffee in his haste. "Alright. I wanna know what all this is about. Larry can ask his questions. With me listening."
Larry and Brassius exchanged glances, taken aback by Ash's assertiveness. Eventually, the businessman waved a hand in reluctant agreement. "Fine. But first," he turned back to Brassius, "do you have any rice cakes?"
In the quiet of an adjacent dressing room, away from the other girls, Serena and Kathi Grace had found a moment of privacy to take Palermo's call. The honey-blonde's Rotom Phone flickered with Palermo's poised figure.
"Darling, I must say, pairing yourself with the monarch was quite the wonderful business decision. The exposure has been magnifique," Palermo was saying, her voice dripping with approval. "Your popularity metrics have soared by 300% across multiple regions, and social media mentions have quadrupled since your association with Ash. I'm not even going to ask how you managed it as you are about as beautiful as I was as Kalos Queen—but what gave you the idea? What is your plan moving forward?"
Serena, her fingers hesitating over Kathi Grace's tablet, paused as her eyes reread SUSU's troubling blog post. "Palermo, why are you saying that my relationship with Ash is just a 'dalliance' and that we're 'not exclusive'?" she asked, shaking her head as she read snippets from the blog post. "Respectfully, you don't know anything about my relationship with Ash."
Palermo's expression hardened, her voice lowering as she eyed the camera sternly. "Respectfully, dear, I don't need to. You are talented, beautiful—the up and coming object of many desires. And the Monarch is heroic, virile—a global sensation. He can certainly enjoy having something glamorous on his arm, while you embrace international popularity. All across the regions, people are wondering who you are, Serena—and they are eager to know more about you and Ash Ketchum, but because they know this is a 'dalliance' and nothing more. You are both still very young…"
Serena flinched, a familiar frustration tightening her chest. Why did people keep saying that? Without really thinking, and speaking almost to herself, she whispered, "You're wrong…I love him…"
"Well, you may certainly think so," Palermo sighed, her next words tinged with exasperation. "But careful, Serena. You both are still at the precipice of your careers. And there's a very long way to fall…anchoring yourself to a frivolous attachment could lose you traction. And votes."
Serena remained silent, her throat constricting with a surge of anger, her hands gripping the tablet a bit tighter.
Palermo's gaze shifted past Serena to Kathi Grace. "Kathi Grace."
"Yes, madame?" Kathi Grace, caught off guard, jumped slightly.
"When it comes to answering the press about The Kalos Queen and the Monarch, take after me. Be sure to imply that the relationship is nothing serious, and that Serena is more than eligible to—"
"She's not going to do that, Palermo." Serena interjected, her eyes flashing with resolve. "It's not true."
Palermo's expression darkened, her wrinkles tightening and then deepening. "Serena…you are towing a dangerous line these days. First, you reject Guillermo's help, now mine…do you really think that is wise?"
"You both are not helping," Serena retorted firmly. She didn't even bother to explain all the ways Guillermo had actually done quite the opposite. It was clear that the producer was not even close to her nephew. "None of this has anything to do with making people smile. Which is why I became Kalos Queen. I make people smile because of what I and my Pokémon can do. Because of my bond with them. Because of how much I care about making others happy. What I do on stage has nothing to do with my personal life. On top of that, I'm not some object some people think they can own."
"Of course you're not," Palermo conceded with a dismissive wave. "it's just profitable to make them believe you are." With an irritated huff, the producer continued, "I am only telling you what sells but…Very well. Let me know when you come to your senses. Either way, I will see you in a few months, when you return to Kalos to compete for your title. Hopefully, you will be able to keep it…" It wasn't a threat, just a matter-of-fact statement made in Palermo's pragmatic tone.
With that, the producer bid them goodbye before succinctly signing off the call. Serena's Rotom Phone returned to her hand as she exchanged a frustrated look with Delphox, who had been standing a foot or so behind her throughout the exchange.
Kathi Grace, noticing Serena's prolonged silence, ventured cautiously, "Um, Serena? Are you…are you okay?"
Serena's expression had shifted; it was no longer angry, sad, or even disappointed. She looked entirely composed, unshakeable. After a moment, she smiled reassuringly at Delphox and then turned to Kathi Grace. "Yes," she said, a determined fire entering her eyes as she nodded towards her Pokémon. "We make people smile, Kathi Grace. That's the most important thing for a performer. It's the most important thing for us. And that's what I'm going to keep doing."
Turning to catch her reflection in the mirror, Serena could see her own determination etched across her face, feeling even more confident. She could see how much she had grown, how far she had come. She didn't need to keep proving herself. She was the best in Showcases. Whether she won or lost, it didn't matter. She believed she was the best, and believing that, she could take risks, chances, even fail from time to time and only grow stronger. Her future was in her hands. She was done posturing for other people.
Looking back at Kathi Grace, who still wore a smile tinged with worry, Serena maintained her brilliant smile. "It's time to get ready for the show."
"And the interviews…if they ask about Ash…?" Kathi Grace asked, one corner of her lips dipping slightly with concern.
Serena turned back to the mirror, her fingers finding the pale blue ribbon—Ash's ribbon—woven into her hair, which she had pinned into an elaborate bun. "Just tell them the truth," she stated, her face still radiant with resolve.
"The Explorers?" Brassius set his empty coffee cup down with a clink, the dark remnants of the brew swirling at the bottom. "My, this is certainly not the conversation I was expecting…"
Larry, mouth still full of rice cake, mumbled and licked his fingers, "Well… What were you expecting?" He chewed thoughtfully, eyes on Brassius.
Brassius leaned back in his chair, folding his arms across his chest. "I was perhaps expecting to discuss the usual rumors that float around the darker corners of our world," he began, his voice lowering to a dramatic, conspiratorial whisper. "Tales of shadowy figures manipulating Pokémon battles for high stakes, or perhaps the whispered accounts of a hidden laboratory where they say scientists are attempting to create the ultimate Pokémon by splicing the genes of different Legendary species. Or even the old legends of the 'Ghost Trains'—phantom locomotives that appear on foggy nights, carrying passengers who disappeared years ago."
Everyone looked at him, mildly horrified.
"Sounds like you've been spending too much time with these 'esoteric' types," Larry muttered, finally swallowing his mouthful of rice.
Suddenly, Goh's eyes lit up, something clicking in his mind. "Hey! I've heard of the Explorers! Don't they have something to do with some superhero guy with six awesome Pokémon?"
"Lucius and the Six Heroes?" Brassius sniffed with some irritation, correcting Goh's casual descriptor.
"Yes!" Goh confirmed, excitement in his voice.
Ash, alongside Pikachu, tilted his head at the city boy. "Wait, how do you know about this?"
Goh bristled slightly, "Not sure I like your tone…"
"His tone is definitely justifiable…" Bonnie chimed in, half-teasing, "No offense."
Brock, amused by the exchange, asked, "Where did you hear about them, Goh?"
Goh shot back with a smirk, "The guy's literally in our history textbook. Ash would know that if he actually paid attention in class rather than text his bombshell of a girlfriend."
Ash's patience snapped, a vein throbbing visibly on his forehead as he gritted his teeth. "I told you to stop calling her that…"
"What? Your girlfriend?" Goh feigned innocence.
"No! You know what I mean…" Ash hissed, frustration evident.
Bonnie snickered, unable to resist the moment. "I can't believe you're not used to that by now, Ash. You know Serena's going to be all over billboards soon and—"
Brassius wiggled his eyebrows suggestively towards Ash. "Ah? You are courting the Kalos Queen? I heard," he hummed and tapped his chin, assessing Ash as though he were a sculpture before winking, "That is appropriate, I suppose."
Ash shifted in his seat, flustered, "I…want to stop talking about this."
Larry, trying to steer the conversation back on track, cut in, "And I want to get back on subject…"
"Yes, yes, yes. The Explorers," Brassius redirected. "What do you wish to know? I admit, I know very little. But my colleagues and I have discussed what they supposedly uphold, their history, and such. There are 'supporters' for the organization—which may not even exist, mind you—among my circle. But such people support the idea of them rather than the actual entity."
"I'll hear anything you have to offer," Larry splayed his hands out before him.
Brassius nodded and rubbed his hands together before finding a flashlight to put beneath his face. In a voice carefully curated for such stories, he began: "Originally, the Explorers was a group made of friends of Lucius. Although neither their purpose nor ensuing fate are known, some traveled with him far and wide, assisting Lucius on various quests and bringing peace across the regions. But upon Lucius's disappearance, these allies formed an organization whose sole purpose was to supposedly seek after the fabled land of Laqua."
"Laqua?" Ash questioned, curious.
"A supposed paradise where Pokémon and trainers can live happily ever after…," Brassius sniffed, continuing in his melodramatic way, "but some also say it is a breeding ground for legendaries. Either way, they say Lucius and his Pokémon, after their many journeys and many heroics, found Laqua and came to rest there. In fact, some rumor the hero might even still be alive and well in this paradise to this day," Brassius shared.
"But why do the Explorers wish to find Laqua?" Larry asked, rubbing his chin and trying to figure out how all of this was relevant.
"Esoterics debate this, of course," Brassius hummed, "Many people who believe in Laqua believe people seek it to live forever in paradise. Some claim you are immortal if you dwell in the land. But from what I hear, the Explorers are rumored to prioritize Order and Balance, believing that society and life must be controlled through power in order to bring success to a civilization, if you will. This is what their zealots support as well," Brassius shrugged. "Therefore, their purposes for finding Laqua could be multifaceted."
"Their tenets sound like the opposite of Lucius's own beliefs. He was an adventurer, someone who liked his freedom, right? At least, that's what it seems like in the stories," Larry noted, trying to remember what he knew about the fabled hero.
"True. Which is why the society is rumored to not exist at all, being the antithesis to Lucius's own beliefs," Brassius looked at Ash. "Or they are simply something different all together."
After a brief, thoughtful silence, Brassius clapped his hands and turned off his flashlight, "Well, that is all I know. Oh! But also, some claim the Explorers are after Lucius's Pokémon. This would make sense, as some were very powerful creatures, the most famous of them being the Black Rayquaza…"
Clemont nearly choked on his coffee, "He…he owned a shiny Rayquaza?"
Goh nodded, "Yeah…it's pretty awesome."
"That's amazing!" Ash's excitement was palpable. "What were his other Pokémon?"
"Hm, let's see," Brassius rubbed his temples as though trying to remember. "Entei, a Galarian Moltres, Lapras, Kleavor, and Arboliva!"
Goh whistled, impressed. "That's a stacked team…"
Larry sighed, seemingly lost in thought. "So…the Explorers want to find a paradise."
"Or power…" Brassius shrugged, clearly not giving the society so much as a passing thought. The artist also did not seem perturbed by Larry's questions about them. "I doubt they exist in any organized fashion, Larry. So if the Elite Four is worried about rumors circulating around such a group, I daresay you are wasting your time pursuing them."
Ash turned to Larry, his expression serious. "Why are you asking about all of this?"
Larry folded his arms in front of his chest and stared hard at the floor, contemplating whether or not to share. "I'm not sure yet, Ash," he admitted honestly, looking at the young champion. "But the moment I find out, I'll let you know. Deal?"
Ash narrowed his eyes slightly at the businessman with suspicion but eventually eased his expression, seeing the worry on Larry's face, and nodded. "Sure."
A nearby Pokémon clock chimed as the hour hand landed on the four, catching Ash's attention. He scrambled to his feet. "We have to go!" Ash looked at Brassius and Larry, scratching the back of his head. "Sorry, I'm, uh…there's this Showcase…"
Brassius tutted, "Ah, yes, yes. The Kalos Queen. Her shows are marvelous. Bring her by anytime. I would like to meet her one day. Her artistic expression would be fun to capture in a painting."
Ash smiled, "I'll definitely have her meet you soon. She'd love your work!" And then, before turning to leave, the young champion paused, shifting on his feet. "Um, by the way, I'm surprised you haven't mentioned, uh…Brutus…"
Brassius narrowed his eyes, not understanding, then turned to Larry who also looked confused. "Who?"
"He's a jerk. Plays Blitz? Hair like an old man?" Goh added with a yawn as he stood, Grookey and Gimmighoul stealing a few more biscuits from the coffee table before hopping back onto his shoulder.
Brock, rubbing his face, muttered, "Subtle…"
Ash and Pikachu winced. Eventually, Ash scratched his cheek and continued, looking at the artist, "Isn't he, like…your son?"
Brassius and Larry exchanged looks and then the two of them burst out laughing—even Larry could hardly contain himself, and he began wiping tears from his eyes.
Struggling to breathe, Larry managed, "Brassius, you never…told me…you had…a son!"
Brassius, also wheezing, a hand on Larry's shoulder to keep from falling over, exclaimed, "It's impossible….ha…haha!"
Everyone else just watched awkwardly until their laughter died down.
Ash, still puzzled, asked, "Um…so he's not your son?"
"Where on earth did you hear that?" Brassius responded and cleared his throat from giggles.
"That's the rumor all over the Academy…" Goh muttered, also confused.
Shaking his head, Larry pointed out, "Well, it seems like someone's trying to keep a cover hidden…and they've chosen the wrong lie to tell."
"Indeed. He is not my son," Brassius confirmed, settling the matter with a confident nod.
Everyone seemed puzzled over this, but Ash's eyes moved to the clock again; he would have to figure out the Brutus mystery later.
"Alright, well…Bye, Brassius! Thanks for the awesome battle!" Ash called out as he headed for the door.
Brassius nodded stoically before smiling warmly, "Thank you, Monarch. You have inspired my creativity! Adiós!"
Everyone exchanged farewells before Ash and his companions departed, leaving the mysteries and theories behind for another day.
"Well, I'm excited to see my first Showcase," Penny announced as she, Arven, Nemona, and Aliquis walked the evening streets of Mesagoza. She grumbled upon dodging a skateboarder whizzing past.
Meanwhile, Aliquis yawned widely, earning a curious glance from Nemona. "Yeah, they're cool," he said, trying to muster enthusiasm.
As the group meandered through the city, the cobblestone seemed to shimmer with the dusk. The setting sun painted the clouds in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the bustling avenues lined with ornate lamp posts and flowering balconies. Locals and tourists alike thronged the sidewalks, drawn out by the cool evening after a hot day, filling the air with a blend of laughter, spirited conversations, and the occasional bark or chirp from a Pokémon at their side.
"Why are you so tired? Come on! Get excited!" Nemona prodded, arching a brow at the ace trainer.
Aliquis groaned, rubbing his eyes. "You've had us up all night this week with Giacomo and Mela talking about Team Star's remaining bases. Of course I'm going to be tired…"
Penny scoffed, tossing her Vaporeon a piece of the sandwich she'd settled on for dinner. "How dare you not have the same amount of energy as la presidenta!"
Aliquis raised an eyebrow, his tone laced with sarcasm. "You mean, how dare I not run on jet fuel and an unnatural amount of adrenaline that comes from being high off control?" He tried snatching a piece of Penny's food, but she moved away just in time and stomped on his foot.
Nemona's eye twitched at the comment. "I feel like I've gotten better…" she muttered, trying to defend herself.
Arven exchanged a knowing glance with Mabosstiff before pointing at the air. "You did snap at Giacomo for using a red marker when he started writing on the whiteboard…"
"Because red is a color you use for underlining or circling important information! Why would anyone write words on a whiteboard in red!?" Nemona protested, growing visibly agitated.
"Baby steps…that's what we're taking," Penny, her mouth full, patted Nemona's shoulder as Pawmo snickered from her other side. "You gave the marker back when you were told too."
As they came to a halt outside the grand Teatro Real, Aliquis looked around, his expression shifting to anticipation. "Aren't we meeting Ash here?"
Arven sighed, his usual resigned air about him. "He said they were on their way in the group chat?"
Everyone simultaneously took out their phones to check. "Which group chat?" they said in unison.
Arven sweat-dropped. "I keep forgetting there's more than one…"
Just then, they heard shouting from the crowds entering the theater. Ash burst through, panting and out of breath, followed by Clemont, Bonnie, Brock, and Goh, all equally sweaty and dusty from the road, their Pokémon trailing behind looking just as worn.
"You guys are seriously wearing street clothes? I can't be seen with you," Aliquis sniffed with disapproval, gesturing to his own sharp outfit.
"Ash! Did you get your badge?" Nemona grinned, running up to the group.
Ash held up his Grass Badge, returning her grin and rubbing his nose humbly. "It was an awesome battle!"
"Yeah! Brassius is a great challenge!" Nemona's eyes flashed as she raised her fist.
"Ash looks fine to me," Penny, dressed in her typical hoodie and shorts and leggings combo, waved off Aliquis's concerns. "Doubt his girlfriend will care what he wears."
"You're one to talk," Aliquis rolled his eyes.
Brock chuckled good-naturedly. "Well, we didn't exactly have time to change."
"And that's…even with…Ash making us run the whole way!" Bonnie panted, collapsing onto the floor with Dedenne, exhausted.
Clemont sighed and helped Bonnie back to her feet. "Well, should we go in and find our seats?"
Arven pulled out his Rotom Phone, on which were everyone's tickets. Bonnie lit up at the sight of Arven. Lately, she had begun to like having the nervous botanist around—and not just because she liked teasing him and making him sigh, but he seemed like a good friend to Serena, almost acting like her brother.
"So Arven. Do you ever get tired of being the 'dad' in the group?" Bonnie grinned, skipping up to the dirty-blonde.
"All the time," Arven sighed (which was exactly what Bonnie expected him to do), his bangs puffing out as he punched a few buttons on his Rotom Phone screen and sent everyone their tickets.
Ash grinned upon receiving his ticket, then halted before running into the theater, stopping short and looking at Pikachu. "Wait! I have to do something first!"
"But the show's in fifteen minutes!" Nemona protested, triggered by the sudden interruption to the well organized flow of events.
"I have to get something!" Ash exclaimed, suddenly heading in the opposite direction of the theater and towards the other end of the main square. "I'll meet you inside!" He waved to them before he and Pikachu disappeared into the crowd.
"He is so chaotic!" Nemona stomped her foot, frustration evident.
Bonnie giggled, watching Ash's retreating figure before taking Nemona's arm, "You have no idea."
Ash dashed through the streets, his focus sharp amidst the evening crowd. He skidded to a halt in front of a quaint flower stall he had spotted on a morning run a few days prior. The memory of the colorful blooms had stuck with him, especially because he knew Serena loved pretty things, and her hair always smelled like flowers, so it was perfect.
"Okay, Pikachu. Which ones?" Ash murmured, scanning the cart filled with a vibrant array of florals.
The cart was a riot of colors, boasting sunflowers with their bright, cheerful faces, elegant tulips in shades of pink and yellow, fragrant lavender that wafted a calming scent, and lush peonies with their full, ruffled petals. Each type of flower added to the rainbow of options available to Ash, though he couldn't name any of the ones he saw even if his life depended on it.
As he contemplated, a voice chimed from the depths of the flower-laden wagon. "Hola… Monarch. Well, this is a surprise." The florist, a woman with gentle eyes and a kind smile, peeked out from behind her wagon. Beside her, a Roselia flitted about, arranging the blooms with delicate care. "Can I help you?"
Ash, scratching the back of his head sheepishly, replied, "Um, maybe. I, uh, need some flowers for someone."
The florist's eyes twinkled with a knowing look she tried to conceal. "Someone? Well, that is vague. I will need to know a little more before I can help," she drawled with a playful accent. When Ash blushed, she continued, "Did you know flowers have their own language?"
"Huh?" Ash looked at Pikachu, puzzled. "What do you mean?"
Smiling, the florist began to tend to some peonies alongside her Roselia. "Each flower symbolizes different types of relationships and emotions. For instance, lavender can mean devotion, while peonies represent prosperity and a happy marriage. And did you know, the deeper the color of a flower, the deeper a person's affections?"
"I see…" Ash muttered, shifting on his feet and adjusting his cap. He blew out a long breath, his face warming with a blush as he deliberated. Obviously, he loved Serena, but suddenly choosing a flower felt like a lot of pressure.
Sensing Ash's distress, the florist gently prodded, "How does this person make you feel? Do they make you happy? Do they fill you with desire, right here?" She pointed to her heart. "Do you find yourself aching for them whenever the two of you are parted? Are you drawn to their beauty?"
Yes, yes, and yes, Ash thought, his mouth going dry. His face turned an even darker shade of red. He hadn't spoken to anyone about his feelings towards Serena lately and was still very private about it. But suddenly Ash felt like maybe he needed to talk through it with someone…though the idea of being that vulnerable made him shudder. And he didn't think he could actually express everything he was feeling about her. And he was afraid of being misunderstood.
The florist, suppressing a giggle, motioned for Roselia to hand Ash a bouquet of bright red, sweetly scented flower with ruffle-like petals. "Here. Take the carnations. They symbolize love and beauty and devotion…and this color represents a happy love, new and vibrant and strong."
Ash let out a little sigh and took the flowers with a small, grateful smile, convinced Serena would love them. However, as he paid, his eyes caught a large bouquet of deep, red flowers—almost the color of blood.
"But what about those?" Ash pointed to the dark red bouquet.
The florist followed his gaze and smiled softly. "Those are red roses, for lovers who burn for each other." Seeing Ash's confusion, she added, "You are not ready for those."
Ash scrunched his nose, not fully understanding her but shrugging all the same, content with his choice of carnations. "Thanks! You helped a lot!"
"Claro! Take care, muchacho," the florist waved to the enthusiastic young man as he turned to leave. She turned to her Roselia with a knowing smile, "We will see him again…"
As Ash strode into the theater lobby, his eyes were on the vibrant red carnations clutched in his hand, a grin spreading across his face. However, as he and Pikachu maneuvered through the sea of people, he was halted abruptly when a figure stepped in front of him, blocking his path. Looking up, Ash's smile vanished, replaced by a glower as he met the gaze of Guillermo Lebarón, the former professor's face etched with undisguised distaste.
"What are you doing here?" Ash hissed, his fists clenching at his sides.
Guillermo's lips twitched upwards in a sardonic smile. "I am here to see the final show, of course. Why wouldn't I? The Kalos Queen is so very talented, and I will support her no matter what."
Ash did not like his tone, nor did he believe a word he said. His distrust and dislike for Guillermo were palpable. "I don't want you anywhere near her," Ash nearly spat. On his shoulder, Pikachu's cheeks crackled with warning.
"You can't make me do anything, campeón," Guillermo retorted darkly, his eyes narrowing. "If I want to be near her, I can be near her. And if I want to watch her, I can watch." His grin widened, shadows playing in his eyes. "And you of all people should know how lovely she is to watch."
Ash's blood began to boil. His fingers twitched again, and his muscles clenched as though winding up to pounce.
Just then, a soft voice cut through the tension. "Guillermo, darling, why don't you go on and play the tragic hero somewhere else."
Ash turned to see Tulip striding into the lobby with her entourage and Espathra. She was dressed elegantly in a flowing gown that shimmered with subtle hues of lavender and silver, catching the light with every graceful step. Her hair was styled in a sophisticated updo, adorned with delicate flowers that matched her dress. Flashing Ash a knowing look, she took his free arm into hers. "Come, Ash Ketchum. Why don't you escort me to my box," she suggested firmly, steering him away from Lebarón, who sneered as they departed.
As they walked, Ash tried to control his breathing, his grip tightening and then loosening around the stems of the flowers.
Tulip, noticing Ash's agitation and aware of the cameras flashing around them, smiled pleasantly to maintain appearances. "Try not to let them see you upset. They will speculate," she advised quietly.
Ash blinked out of his rage, glancing up just as a camera flashed in his face. He forced a smile, though he knew it didn't reach his eyes.
Tulip leaned in to whisper in Ash's ear, her professional smile never wavering. "Lebarón would never touch her. He knows that would ruin him, and to be ruined is his greatest fear. It is best to ignore him from now on."
"But he has touched her," Ash replied, his smile faltering, his eyes flashing with suppressed rage.
Tulip hummed in agreement but then tilted her head thoughtfully. "He will not do it again," She sighed and shook her head, "What I mean truly, darling, is that you will not beat him at his game with your fists. Besides, it is not even your battle to fight."
"What do you mean?" Ash asked, though he already sensed the implication.
When they arrived at her box, Tulip turned to Ash and winked, her confidence unshaken. "Serena will overcome him. She is too talented, too fabulous, to be stifled by such mundane corruption. You believe in her, no?"
Ash nodded mutely, his voice fierce with conviction. "Of course."
Tulip's smile broadened. She eyed Ash's flowers approvingly. "She will like those." Then, playfully poking Ash's nose, added, "Be sure to find her after. She is dying to see you."
At this, Ash grinned and rubbed his nose as a little blush crept up his cheeks. "I will."
As Ash made his way down the dimly lit aisle of the theater, he found his seat just as the lights flickered, signaling the imminent start of the show. Bonnie, nestled between Brock and Nemona with Dedenne and Pawmo in her lap, looked up at him with a curious expression.
"Where were you?" she asked, her tone playful. Her eyes widened when she noticed the flowers Ash carried. "Ooo! Your tardiness is forgiven," she teased, grinning as Ash settled beside the Pokédoctor.
Ash offered a slightly strained smile in response and carefully placed the flowers underneath his seat. He tried to appear relaxed, but his knee began to bounce anxiously, and he made a concerted effort not to scan the balconies for Guillermo.
Brock, ever observant, eyed Ash with concern. "You okay?" he inquired, his voice low and steady.
Rubbing Pikachu's head for a bit of comfort, Ash nodded, though the Electric mouse simultaneously shook his head, betraying Ash's true feelings.
"For sure," the young champion responded, his voice not quite matching the certainty he intended.
Brock just chuckled softly and patted Ash's shoulder reassuringly. "Okay, well. I'm here if you need me," he offered, his presence a steady reassurance to the young trainer.
Ash relaxed a little, nodding gratefully to Brock. The moment was cut short as the theater suddenly descended into darkness, the audience's murmurs fading into anticipatory silence.
Ohara stood backstage, clutching her Fuecoco in her trembling arms, her breathing shallow with nerves. For tonight's performance, she was dressed in a flowing, iridescent gown that shimmered under the stage lights, the fabric catching light like the surface of a pond at sunrise. Her hair was pinned up elegantly, with loose tendrils framing her face, enhancing her youthful, pretty features. Gently, she peeked from behind the curtain at the bustling audience, her heart racing at the sight.
"We can do this! We've been working so hard…" she whispered to her Fire crocodile, trying to muster confidence.
Ohara felt like she had thrown herself into performing with an obsession that reminded her of the first time she had picked up a flute. Ever since she had witnessed Serena's captivating show at Orientation night, Ohara had aspired to step out from the shadows of the orchestra and claim a place in the full spotlight, inspired by the joy and applause that came from making others smile. That and she had never really felt like she'd owned a place on a stage—not at school, among her friends, or even in her family…
She wanted more than just to fulfill the expectations set by her father, the head of the orchestra and a renowned flutist himself. In reality, all of her family were musical sensations, and being the youngest, it was only expected Ohara should be one as well. Her father had always envisioned her following in the family's footsteps, achieving great things in music within the folds of a group, and so he was less than thrilled about her divided attention between music and performing arts.
Stepping out of her father's shadow meant proving to herself—and to him—that she could excel beyond the classical music scene. It was also a test to see if her talents were truly her own or if they were amplified by her family's influence, which often secured her soloist roles.
As these thoughts swirled in her head, Ohara's nerves intensified, and she began to doubt herself.
A soft voice broke her reverie. "Ohara? Are you okay?"
Turning, Ohara saw Serena approaching, a gentle smile on her face as she placed a comforting hand on the brunette's shoulder.
"Y-yes! I'm just," Ohara's smile faltered, and she sighed, "I'm nervous. I've just been working so hard and…my family is here and I don't know…"
Serena, aware of Ohara's family situation and the girl's fears, exchanged a knowing glance with her Sylveon, who stood beside the performer. After a moment, Serena looked back up at her friend and softened her blue eyes on Ohara. "It's okay to be nervous. And to do things other people might not expect you to do. I think I told you, but my mom always assumed I would be a Rhyhorn racer. Just like her."
Ohara nodded, trying to return Serena's smile. "You told me," she snickered lightly, "but I bet you were pretty good."
Serena laughed. "And you are an amazing flutist. You can be good at more than one thing too, you know."
Ohara hadn't actually fully believed that. She shook her head at her own insecurities, trying to feel how ridiculous they were. "Were you nervous before your first Showcase?"
"Yes," Serena answered immediately, moving shoulder to shoulder with Ohara and also peaking out at the curtain, "very nervous."
"And did you overcome your nerves and win!?" Ohara asked, a spark of hope in her voice.
Serena scratched the side of her head, "Not exactly…I actually didn't make it past the first round…"
Ohara and Fuecoco fell over in shock.
Serena helped the flutist back up with a giggle, smoothing out Ohara's dress. "But it all worked out for the best. I actually learned so much from that. Though, I still get a little nervous before every Showcase."
"You do?" Ohara looked up, her eyes wide.
"Of course! It's normal," Serena encouraged. "It's always nerve-wracking putting yourself out there for people. You're giving your all to try and make someone happy. It's amazing, but incredibly vulnerable. And at the end of the day, you just have to be confident in what you can do and believe in yourself."
Ohara glanced down at Fuecoco, then winked at Serena. "And never give up, right?"
Serena grinned, nodding with a fist clenched above her heart. "That's right."
Ohara, feeling a surge of resolve, let Fuecoco jump from her arms before the girl gripped Serena's hands. "You've been such an amazing mentor, Serena. There's no way I would have ever gotten this far or broken out of my shell without you! You've been so kind and patient, and I believe you really want the best for all of us."
Serena, moved by Ohara's words, brought her into a warm hug. "I do."
Okay, so we keep chipping away at the plot. The Explorer's end goals are revealed, in a roundabout way. Larry now has some idea as to what they're after, but doesn't know how it relates to Turo or Tera Industries. Of course, HE doesn't know about Turo's time portal machine thingy…
Why the Explorers want Terapagos is still unknown to us. But we have learned that Geeta remains a conundrum and Larry is ✨stressed✨
Next chapter will be the performance, cute amour moments, and talk of Pallet Town…Stay tuned! As always, let me know what you think :) Love hearing all your reactions to characters and things.