Hi all! Sorry for the late update. Kind of forgot when I promised the chapter and I've been traveling.
This chapter is honestly me being a Serena stan and Amourshipping trash. I don't curse, but there's a bunch of fluffy sh*t in here so enjoy ?
A note about the research:
I had to do a lot of research for this chapter as well, and came across lots of conflicts information especially when wading through background info surrounding the Spanish hand-fan, or el abanico. But I did my best! You will see that they are incorporated into the performances. Historically, abanicos were used by women to communicate secret messages to lovers, and the positions of the fan meant something significant. However, different sources would have conflicting info on what one position would mean. Either way, I tried to assimilate sources as best I could!
With the flamenco (as I mentioned before, I am dropping the term fuegodanza and just calling the dance for what is) there was less conflicting information save for varying styles across different regions. I stuck with the basics and described it to the best of my ability. I had to cut a lot of descriptions about the Showcase otherwise the chapter would have gotten too tedious and bogged down with prose.
A note about the Showcase:
Finally, I opted to not have the trainers giving commands during the Showcase. After reviewing videos from the anime, performers and their Pokémon would just get out there and preform a practiced choreographed number; therefore, commands seemed unnecessary as everyone already knew what to do.
However, to break up all the description, I added some dialogue from peanut gallery ?ￂﾠ
Anyway, I love this chapter so I hope you do as well!
Next update: TBD (check back here late to see a date)
Chapter 26: Brightest Shade of Sun
In the grand auditorium, a hushed anticipation filled the air as lights dimmed one by one, ushering the vast space into an expectant darkness. Suddenly, a single spotlight burst alive, cutting through the shadows to illuminate the center stage. Amidst a swirling cloud of vibrant flowers and a heady whiff of perfume, Señor Pascual—the evening's host, and an associate of Tulip who often moderated her fashion shows—materialized as if conjured by magic itself. He stood confidently, adorned in a meticulously tailored suit and a glossy top hat, his ensemble further embellished with a violet silk cravat and gleaming cufflinks that caught the light with every graceful gesture. His presence was magnetic, drawing all eyes to his charismatic figure.
Behind him, the curtains transformed under a cascade of holographic images—vivid depictions of Paldea's lush landscapes and historic landmarks danced in harmony, setting a mesmerizing backdrop that promised an evening of enchantment.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and Pokémon enthusiasts!" Señor Pascual's voice boomed, rich and inviting. "Welcome to tonight's Pokémon Showcase, a celebration of tradition and talent under the theme, 'Traditional Paldea.' Prepare to be captivated by the artistry and allure of our splendid performers and their marvelous Pokémon!"
As his words echoed through the Teatro Real, the large curtain at the back of the stage was drawn with a flourish. The fabric parted like the pages of a storybook, revealing the performers of the night. Each stood poised beside their Pokémon, a tableau of grace and anticipation. The audience's applause thundered at the sight.
In the center, Serena and her Delphox commanded attention, her bright smile a beacon of joy and confidence. She and her fellow performers were a vision in traditional dresses, each skirt swirling with ruffles and intricate lace that whispered of old Paldea's cultural heritage. While their dresses shared the same elegant design, the palette of colors varied from performer to performer, creating a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues that celebrated individuality within unity. Serena's dress, in particular, was a stunning spectacle of red fabric with gold accents that shimmered under the stage lights.
Applause erupted from the audience, mingling with whistles and enthusiastic shouts that filled the auditorium. In the clamor, Serena's name rang out the most distinctively.
Bonnie clasped hands with Nemona, their faces alight with admiration. Even Dedenne and Pawmo, mirrored their excitement, holding each other with tiny paws. "They all look so beautiful!" Bonnie exclaimed, her voice brimming with awe and delight.
In the sea of faces, Ash's gaze locked onto Serena. Instantly, a large grin spread across his face and a wave of relief washed over him. The tension lingering from his earlier encounter with Guillermo melted away. He felt an almost overwhelming urge to wave, but restrained himself, not wanting to throw Serena off or anything. But then he noticed her bright eyes darting through the crowd, and Ash knew she was searching for him.
Unable to hold back and sensing his impatience, Pikachu looked up at his trainer with knowing eyes. With a mutual nod, the duo started cheering, "Yeah! Let's go, Serena!" Ash's voice rose above the din, accompanied by his best friend's enthusiastic "Pika, Pikachu!"
In that moment, it seemed as though Serena's senses were finely tuned to his voice alone. Her eyes flicked through the audience, and when they found Ash, the spark of recognition flashed across her face. Her smile, already bright, transformed into something even more dazzling and beautiful. She cast a subtle wink in his direction—one that sent a pleasant warmth spreading across Ash's cheeks and into his chest.
Aliquis, catching the subtle exchange, leaned towards Penny with a smirk and whispered just loud enough for her and Nemona to hear, "Bro's down bad."
"I mean, I get it," Penny replied gravely, observing the beginnings of the Showcase with almost a clerical scrutiny.
Nemona, her eyes sparkling with excitement, shifted her focus back to the stage, exclaiming, "Ohara looks amazing!"
The group's attention turned towards Ohara and her Fuecoco, who initially seemed unassuming amidst the more flamboyantly dressed performers. The petite brunette was clad in a snowy white dress, adorned with red and yellow accents that harmoniously matched her Pokémon's fiery coloring. The dress, simple yet elegant, featured delicate patterns.
Arven, from his spot at the end of the row, smiled warmly as he watched Ohara. Her gentle demeanor and quiet strength had always resonated with him, and seeing her on stage, he felt a sincere hope for her success tonight. He leaned forward, about to comment, but paused as he noticed a faint blush coloring Aliquis's cheeks. Choosing discretion, Arven simply looked down and gave his Mabosstiff a small, knowing smile. The large canine—squeezed between the narrow space in front of Arven's seat—seemed as invested in the showcase as any human audience member, his eyes following the performers with an almost discernible appreciation.
Soon enough, Señor Pascual took center stage once more, his voice resonating with theatrical flair. "Ladies and gentlemen, let us welcome our performers and their remarkable Pokémon!" With each announcement, he gestured grandly towards the respective performer, his cane sweeping through the air with practiced elegance.
One by one, each performer stepped forward, striking a dynamic pose with her Pokémon. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, each clap a ripple of approval that energized the performers. When it came time for Serena and Delphox to assume a pose, the Fox Pokémon twirled her fiery wand between her paws and finished with a final slash through the air as Serena landed a practiced croisé devant, embers still swirling around her face.
"I'm so excited!" Bonnie cried into Clemont's sleeve.
After the last of the performers had been introduced and had taken her moment in the spotlight, the grand curtain swept across the stage once again, shrouding the performers in a veil of anticipation.
Señor Pascual, reveling in the heightened attention of the audience, continued, "This Showcase shall consist of two sections. The theme round and a freestyle performance." He paused, allowing the words to sink in before elaborating. "The theme section shall take place in multiple rounds, with three contestants per round facing off against each other. However, only the winner of each round will move on to the next section." His cane tapped against the wooden floor for emphasis. "For each round, you, our esteemed audience, must vote for your favorite."
The audience erupted in applause once more, intermingled with whistles of excitement.
As the curtains once again slid apart, the stage revealed its dramatic transformation. Three elegant booths stood distinctly separated across the platform. The structures were sophisticated, reminiscent of traditional Paldean architecture, with flowing lines and ornamental details.
Señor Pascual, his voice echoing across the now-transformed stage, announced the first challenge. "Performers must enter the booth, where they will find a traditional Paldea hand fan known to us as el abanico. They must then style their Pokémon to match the essence of the abanico's unique design." He paused, allowing the crowd to absorb the complexity of the task. "Finally, upon presenting their Pokémon's new look, each performer must pose three different ways with the abanico alongside their Pokémon. This will not only test their sense of grace and style but their knowledge of the hand fan's traditional language."
Clemont, his curiosity piqued, turned to the group with a puzzled expression. "What does he mean by the fan's traditional language?"
"Apparently," Nemona, always eager to share her knowledge, began with enthusiasm, "in the past and within certain social circles, women used hand fans to communicate secret messages to their lovers." She then wiggled her eyebrows, "Interesting, no?"
Bonnie, caught up in the romance of such clandestine communications, exclaimed, "How cool!"
Clemont nodded, his interest deepening as he imagined the layers of history and strategy intertwined in the seemingly simple accessory.
The spotlight shifted, highlighting the stage where the first trio of competitors was about to showcase their creativity and understanding of tradition. Among them, Ohara took her position with Fuecoco by her side. They quickly stepped into their respective booths, disappearing from view just as a large holographic timer materialized above Señor Pascual, counting down from two minutes.
While the performers were tucked away, Over the murmurs of the intrigued crowd, Señor Pascual explained:
"Performers have two minutes to match their Pokémon to their unique abanico inside their booth—one which they did not see beforehand! The señoritas are then given ribbons, flowers, small decorative hats, and fabric swatches to aid them in this creative endeavor!" His proclamation added a layer of anticipation to the air, as everyone awaited the reveal of the transformations.
The seconds ticked down and the audience's excitement continued to build. Señor Pascual kept the audience entertained with a series of delightful magic tricks. With a flick of his wrist, he conjured a bouquet of sparkling flowers from thin air, each shimmer transforming into a fluttering butterfly. Another wave, and a seemingly endless scarf cascaded from his sleeve, its colors shifting like a kaleidoscope.
Finally, the holographic timer chimed, signaling the end of the allotted time. The performers were to now come out of their booths, one-by-one.
Ohara was the second performer to emerge, stepping confidently into the spotlight with Fuecoco by her side. Inspired by the abanico she had been given—one adorned with vibrant flowers set against a dark blue backdrop and intricate gold embellishments—Ohara had styled Fuecoco in a manner that mirrored the fan's elegance and vibrancy. Fuecoco's scales were adorned with temporary floral patterns that matched the flowers on the fan, and ribbons in hues of blue and gold were woven through his tufts, which began to glow playfully.
The crowd's reaction was immediate and overwhelming. As Ohara and Fuecoco took center stage, a wave of admiration swept through the audience, and the applause that followed was thunderous, eclipsing the cheers for the previous contestant.
With the fan firmly in hand, Ohara initiated her sequence of poses that not only showcased her poise but also narrated a visual tale. She twirled energetically, her snowy skirts fluttering in a soft rustle, while Fuecoco contributed gently blowing a series of small embers at her feet, creating a sparkling contrast against the stage floor. Coming to a graceful halt, Ohara held the abanico open in her left hand at her chest.
Señor Pascual, there to bridge the performers and the spectators, translated this elegant gesture with enthusiasm. "Ah, la señorita is inviting us to come speak with her! Shall we oblige her?"
The audience only cheered in response
Next, Ohara transitioned seamlessly into her second pose, the movements fluid as if the fan were an extension of her own body. She closed the fan, twirled her wrists elegantly, and moved into second position—arms extended more forward than they would otherwise be as compared to traditional ballet—only to then shift the hand holding the abanico into third position before gently placing it just behind her head, open. At this moment, Fuecoco cast Sunny Day, a move that intensified the lighting around them, creating a halo effect that magnified the dramatic flair of her pose.
Señor Pascual continued his lively commentary, capturing the audience's imagination. "She is begging us not to forget her! Will you?" he called out, gesturing towards the audience with a sweeping motion that invited their participation.
For her final pose, Ohara returned to second position, then presented the closed fan towards the audience. In a delightful twist, Fuecoco hopped atop her head, his tufts aglow, enhancing the charm of the moment.
Señor Pascual, with a twinkle in his eye, addressed the crowd once more. "She is asking if you love her, mis amores. Do you?"
They did.
As the performances of all three girls in Ohara's cohort concluded, the audience was called upon to cast their votes. The glowcasters were raised high, illuminating the auditorium with a sea of varying light.
Ohara and Fuecoco were unmistakably declared the victors.
"That was so cute!" Bonnie gushed, "She was great!"
Nemona, her eyes closed in a moment of appreciation, added with arms folded across her dress, "And she's an amazing dancer—even in traditional flamenco! She could be real competition!"
"Audience seems to love her," Aliquis mumbled, glancing around past his shoulders.
As the applause continued, the stage underwent another transformation. The platforms on which the girls stood quietly descended below the stage, whisking them out of sight. Moments later, the platforms rose again, revealing a new set of competitors, with Serena and her Sylveon prominently among them.
Ash brightened at the sight of her and pumped both his fists in the air, "Alright, Serena!"
When it was time, the Kalos Queen stepped into her booth alongside the other competitors. Señor Pascual again kept the audience engaged with his lively banter and a few impromptu magic tricks, his hands deftly moving in mesmerizing patterns that captivated the audience and filled the waiting time with delight and wonder.
As the two-minute timer buzzed its conclusion, Serena was the first to reappear. The fan she carried was a stunning piece, adorned with lush, vibrant red blossoms set against a dark, leafy green background, its colors and design resonating with a deep, romantic allure.
Mirroring the fan's aesthetic, Serena had styled Sylveon to complement its rich palette. Ribbons the color of deep green vines intertwined with Sylveon's pale pink feelers, while lush red roses—the blooms ranging from opened to unopened—adorned the Pokémon's ears and neck. In addition, Serena had saddled Sylveon with a little basket of rose petals, which the Fairy-type scooped her with feelers and blew into the air along a shimmering, pink wind.
"Ugh!" Penny exclaimed, her eyes shining while she clenched her fists and brought them to her heart, "Sylveon looks so cute!"
"Are you crying?!" Nemona looked at Penny, bewildered.
Penny swiped at her eyes, her bottom lip protruding at the cuteness of it all. "I'm not crying, you're crying."
Meanwhile, Ash couldn't help but beam with pride. He nudged Brock, who was sitting next to him, and asked with a wide grin, "Serena looks amazing, doesn't she?"
Brock and Pikachu exchanged knowing glances before the Pokédoctor stifled a snicker. The former gym leader resorted to merely patting Ash on the shoulder.
On stage, Serena began to execute her poses with the fan, each movement fluid, beautiful, and imbued with grace. As she shifted, her eyes scanned the crowd until they locked with Ash's. A warm smile spread across her face, her cheeks tinted with a blush as she spun, her skirt flaring dramatically. When she came to a stop, she coyly lifted the open fan in her left hand to hide her eyes. Simultaneously, Sylveon created a delicate pink haze and a light twister of rose petals around them. The Pokémon then arched her feelers to form a heart.
I love you.
Serena transitioned smoothly into another series of movements, her left arm bending gracefully to transition the fan to her right hand before extending it outward and then raising it above her head. All the while, Sylveon's ribbons fluttered in the air before she released a soft sparkling light from her body, surrounding them in a magical shimmer. Serena struck her final pose, dramatically closing the fan and positioning it beside her right eye in a gesture of intrigue and allure.
When will I see you?
As Señor Pascual announced the meanings of each pose, murmurs and excited whispers broke out across the audience.
Nemona gasped and placed a hand over her mouth, turning to Ash and nearly swooning, "She's talking to you!"
Registering the messages, Ash's cheeks grew as red as the carnations under his seat. He felt the weight of every eye in the audience attempting to seek him out—to find the recipient of these love letters written in the air by the Kalos Queen. Ash had known she was speaking directly to him, but apparently so did everyone else. Soon enough, Ash felt his friends turn their heads one-by-one towards him.
Serena continued her mesmerizing performance, moving with a fluidity and confidence that spoke to her experience and captivated every spectator. She elegantly spun between Sylveon's feelers, her movements synchronized with the Pokémon's gentle sway. As she completed her spin, she arched her back dramatically, extending her left arm behind her to highlight the strong lines of her form. Meanwhile, her right hand delicately held the abanico, half-opened and pressed gently to her lips in a gesture of invitation.
Come kiss me.
"Well, well, well," Señor Pascual clucked and translated.
With a playful flair, Serena then blew a kiss towards the audience, her charm and charisma reaching every corner of the auditorium. The crowd responded with a thunderous roar, completely enchanted. Many in the spectators smiled widely, some mimicking her gesture by blowing kisses back, as others let out impressed "ooo"s and "ahh"s.
But while the intimate connection between Serena's performance and the audience was clearly felt, it was even more obvious that her messages, though broadly appealing, held a special significance for someone in particular.
Penny, almost resigned to the magic of the moment, murmured, "That was perfect."
Beside her, Nemona sighed dreamily and, resting her chin in her hand, winked at Ash from farther down the row, "That was so romantic!"
"Well, Ash," Aliquis whistled, placing his hands behind his head and leaning back, "you better go see your girl after and give her what she wants!"
This remark prompted Arven to flick the ace trainer's ear in a resigned reprimand.
Goh scratched his temple, "Oh! The fans were being used to actually say things!"
Bonnie just looked at the cityboy, incredulous, "Where do you go sometimes?"
Brock couldn't contain himself, bursting into tears of laughter alongside Pikachu as Ash's face radiated heat from all the ribbing.
Trying to shift the focus from Ash's embarrassment, Clemont cut in, "Serena sure looked very graceful. I'll be curious to see how she does during the Freestyle round, which apparently asks the performers to incorporate the abanico," the inventor informed them all. "She mentioned struggling to master her choreography with the prop last time I spoke to her." He smiled good-naturedly, clearly still confident in the honey-blonde.
Bonnie chimed in optimistically, "I'm sure she'll do great!"
As the next trio of performers took the stage, Ash, Bonnie, and Clemont all exchanged puzzled looks before sweatdropping.
Clemont rubbed his face. "No way…"
"But it can't be!" Bonnie groaned and her Dedenne flopped into her lap as though having fainted.
Ash confirmed their suspicion, "It is…" Then with a useless sigh, "How did we not see her before?"
"I don't think she was in the group number," Clemont muttered nervously.
Penny and Nemona exchanged glances before the class president demanded, "What are you guys talking about?"
At that moment, Señor Pascual, squinting confusedly at a card suddenly handed to him by a mysterious figure with blue hair, announced, "And first to go this round… Jessilee!"
There was some murmuring and confusion among the applause, as the audience was not familiar with this new performer.
However, it was none other than Team Rocket's Jessie, hardly in disguise, strutting around the stage with her Seviper before disappearing into the styling booth.
Goh, snapping his fingers, grinned smugly as though he had just solved a difficult mystery. "Ah, Team Rocket," he said, then scratched his head, "Didn't we leave them tied up around a lamppost?"
"You're on a roll today," Bonnie deadpanned.
Brock shook his head in amazement, "They can't be stopped."
Ash had indeed left Team Rocket accidentally stranded, tied around a lamppost after their last encounter. However, ever resourceful, the trio managed to escape after convincing the Artazon citizens that they were in fact "not pieces of art for some abstract collection" and that they were to be "untied at once."
Of course, it wasn't until Brassius himself rejected the idea of the trio's being associated with his artwork—claiming he would never "create something so hideous" (an insult Jessie believed firmly to be about Meowth)—did Team Rocket at last find themselves free.
The trio then managed to hitch a ride to Mesagoza, dangling on the ropes of a slow-moving hot air balloon piloted by an unsuspecting tour guide who was more interested in his guidebook than identifying the extra weight that slowed down his progress.
Upon landing, Jessie had dramatically declared it her "divine right" as the "goddess of the arts" to participate in the Mesagoza Showcase, much to the bemusement of James and Meowth.
And therefore, there was Jessie—or Jessilee. On stage.
"Hm," Nemona, observing the unfolding drama, smirked, "this should be entertaining."
"What makes you say that?" Goh asked, exchanging a raised brow with Grookey.
"Instinct," Nemona replied simply, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.
And true to la presidenta's instincts, Jessie, despite her elegant appearance in a purple and white flamenco style dress, began to cause quite the stir during her performance. When it came time to pose with the abanico, Jessie's overly dramatic and self-aggrandized gestures left Señor Pascual baffled.
Attempting to interpret her movements, the host hesitated before guessing. These were not gestures he was familiar with. Perhaps they were foreign?
"An...invitation to dinner?" Señor Pascual mumbled, not quite sure what to make of it all.
Jessie and Seviper posed again, this time with Jessie fluttering her fan dramatically at her Pokémon, who pretended to swoon and faint dramatically on stage, writhing in a rich pool of black fabric.
Señor Pascual, still trying to keep up, ventured more comically, "The… existential dread of forever being lost in the shadows?"
Jessie's eyes flashed with frustration. "No, you imbecile!" she snapped, then quickly composed herself, clearing her throat and cooing sweetly, "Such posturing means that my beauty is too great for mortal eyes, and therefore they faint in my presence!"
Señor Pascual merely sweatdropped, figuring the quicker they moved on the better. Jessie's final pose was just as bewildering: with the abanico open behind her head, she dramatically placed her foot above Seviper's still 'swooned' form.
The crowd couldn't help but laugh at the spectacle. Señor Pascual, desperate for some semblance of normalcy, took a wild guess, "Your beauty conquers all?"
"Yes! Finally, you have it," Jessie exclaimed, satisfied with his guess.
From the wings of the stage, James and Meowth clasped each other in their arms and cried about how moving they found such an act.
Pascual cleared his throat and did not linger, "Right…moving on!"
Jessilee, unfortunately, did not advance to the second round.
As the theme round concluded, the auditorium buzzed with excitement and anticipation for the next phase of the competition featuring the final five contestants.
Señor Pascual, twirling his staff, set the stage: "For the Freestyle Performance, performers were allowed to change their costume and their abanicos to match their styles. They are to incorporate their abanicos into the dance, and may be accompanied by up to six Pokémon." He paused to flourish his fingers in front of the curtain before announcing, "And first to perform…the one and only Kalos Queen!"
As he spoke, the curtain behind him began to part slowly, drawing all eyes to the stage.
Nemona, caught up in the spectacle, couldn't contain her excitement. "Wow! Serena's up first!"
Equally enthralled, Penny clasped her hands to her cheeks. "These shows are amazing!" she smiled, her voice a mix of awe and delight.
Ash and Pikachu shared a look of excitement, their expressions mirroring each other's eagerness. The young champion blew out a long breath—suddenly feeling tense again as the crowd grew louder, as though he could hear Guillermo's voice within the crowds chanting her name but with dark intent. Ash tried to keep his focus on the stage, determined not to look for the former contest professor among the faces in the balconies...
But just as Ash was about to give in to the impulse, Serena and her Pokémon appeared.
The audience gasped. Ash found his mouth suddenly dry, his heart pounding against his ribs.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, Ash's mind thought on repeat as he took in the full sight of her.
Serena stood tall and posed, waiting for the music to begin. Her two-piece ensemble was colored with the vivid hues of a sunset, ablaze beneath the stage lights. The top was stylishly minimal, low cut and tied at the front; its sleek lines accentuated her toned figure. The sleeves exposed her bare shoulders before cascading into ruffles along her arms.
The ruffled skirt clung tastefully high on her waist and boasted two high slits, showcasing her long, graceful legs; the fabric seemed to promise that with each step Serena took, it would flutter and part with the power and precision of her dance.
Her abanico, also painted in the warm hues of the setting sun and decorated with an intricate lace design, was held open at an angle just at her stomach. Finally, her hair was adorned with gold, red, and orange flowers, adding a floral crown that matched her prop. Her golden-honey hair was neatly pinned up into a bun, keeping it out of her face and highlighting her vivid, blue eyes.
She was the brightest shade of sun Ash had ever seen.
"She looks incredible!" Nemona and Bonnie squealed in unison, clasping hands with hearts in their eyes.
Goh and Aliquis knew better by now than to comment and kept their mouths shut, opting instead to side-glance at Ash.
The young champion sat spellbound, his gaze fixed. For a moment, time seemed to slow, allowing him to absorb every detail of her: the blue of her eyes, the delicate sway of the flowers pinned to her golden hair, the full pink curve of her smile. But it was her confidence that filled him with a profound sense of pride and admiration.
Distantly, as though from a far-off place, Ash heard Clemont's voice, thoughtful and appreciative. "Her Pokémon look great!"
Delphox, Pancham, and Sylveon had been styled with impeccable attention to detail, each echoing elements of Serena's vibrant costume and the sunset hues of her hand-fan. Delphox's fur was adorned with subtle streaks of red and orange ribbon while Pancham sported a small, stylish scarf that mirrored the color of Serena's skirt. Sylveon's ribbons were dyed in gradients of gold, red, and orange, perfectly complementing the floral adornments in Serena's hair.
"She's quite the professional," Brock said carefully, an eyebrow raised at Ash, who seemed lost in his own little world. No one seemed inclined to disturb him, not even Pikachu.
The music started soft and slow. Serena began to move.
She initiated her performance by drawing the abanico up delicately near her face, unfurling it with intent. Her movements were expressive, her other arm arching above her head, rising in sync with the soft errant strands of the guitar. Dreamily, the fan fluttered, accentuating each of her gestures, casting subtle shadows and adding a layer of mystique to her presence.
The beauty of her movements was overwhelming, casting a spell over Ash that he couldn't deny or escape. It was the kind of beauty that resonated deep within, stirring emotions that were both exhilarating and intense. Ash found himself completely mesmerized, his heart beating faster as he watched her every move.
Serena continued; the fan opening and closing with snaps that attempted to match the staccato beats of her feet as she executed a series of taconeo. She spun, the fan swishing in the air, her body following its lead in fluid, powerful motions.
Halting, Serena began more braceo, her abanico closing as she twirled and twisted her arms before lifting them and unfurling her prop again, fluttering it quickly and then slowing her movements with the music's tempo; her chest heaved with exertion. The audience sat captivated.
Unwillingly—or so he told himself—Ash's eyes began to drift from the honey-blonde's expressive face down to the rest of her figure. The way the slits in her skirt exposed her long legs—which looked golden in the light—and how the fabric hugged her form; how the skin across her midriff…
A hot flush crept up Ash's cheeks. Feeling suddenly self-conscious about how intensely he'd been studying her, he shifted in his seat. He cleared his throat, trying to reset his focus as Serena began to move more quickly as the music picked up, her fan tracing arcs that seemed to paint the very air with color.
At Serena's subtle cue, Delphox sprang into action, gracefully twirling her wand above her head. With a skilled flick, she conjured small, vibrant rings of fire using Fire Spin, each ring rippling with intense heat. From beside Serena, Sylveon summoned a gentle Fairy Wind, catching the fiery rings and sending them swirling across the stage in a breathtaking display of pink-tinged flames.
Meanwhile, Pancham spun and somersaulted through the expanding rings before they grew even larger and drifted towards Serena. The audience caught their breath. With a composed smile and listening to the music, Serena arched her back and executed a series of precise steps as she stepped through the pink-tinted fire, her posture perfect and her focus unwavering.
For the next two rings, Serena used her fan as both a shield and a tool of artistry. As she neared each ring, she swiftly maneuvered her closed fan to slice through the flames for one, opening and fluttering the prop to effectively break through the other, all the while continuing to twirl her wrists and her arms, keeping the utmost control over her body. It had appeared as though the flames had parted for her.
Initially, Ash's muscles had tensed as the rings of fire approached Serena. But as she demonstrated her control and mastery over the situation, his shoulders relaxed, a relieved sigh escaping him. Obviously, he hadn't liked seeing the fire aimed towards her, but her clear confidence reassured him, and his belief in her grew even stronger.
"They're just too good," Aliquis shook his head, his brows far up his forehead in disbelief.
Arven nodded in agreement, "I don't think I've seen a more disciplined trainer—and Pokémon."
"Precisely!" Clemont chimed in, leaning forward with enthusiasm. "Save for Ash and his team," he added, turning to the young champion. "She learned a lot from you!"
Ash tried to acknowledge his friends with a weak smile but he was too busy watching to talk.
With a robust leap, Pancham unleashed a Dark Pulse, sending rings of purple energy spiraling into the mix. These shadowy circles melded with the fiery ones, creating a mesmerizing dance of contrasting energies that crackled through the air.
Serena glanced towards Delphox with a nod, signaling the next phase of their choreography. Understanding immediately, Delphox's eyes and the tip of her fiery wand glowed an intense blue. As she focused, the intertwined rings of fire and shadow before her responded, their edges tinged with the same eerie light. The rings became suddenly pliable under the Fox Pokémon's telekinetic command, reshaping and resizing as if they were made of soft clay.
Delphox then manipulated these rings to bring them above Serena's head downward until they were orbiting around her in increasingly complex patterns. The rings began spinning faster and bled together, enveloping the performer in a dynamic vortex of flame and darkness.
Bonnie exclaimed, "She taught Delphox Psychic!"
"And she already has a lot of trust in her ability," Clemont observed, watching the rings spin faster around Serena.
As the music's tempo increased, the rings continued to expand and thin all around the honey-blonde performer, who continued to dance passionately with her abanico fluttering in the dark fire. The audience could catch glimpses of her—the swirl of her skirt, the flash of her fan, her determined expression. Occasionally, she would be obscured by the thickening swirls, only to be revealed again as if stepping back into reality from the consciousness of a dream.
As the music changed again, the beat slowing, the swirling vortex suddenly condensed back into a single ring, spinning rapidly at Serena's waist. With theatricality, Serena raised her fan, miming a slicing motion through the fiery shadows. Unseen to the audience, Delphox subtly assisted, parting the flaming circle with a gentle wave of her wand, her eyes still aglow with the cool blue of her psychic power.
The elemental fire then transformed again, morphing under the Fox Pokémon's influence into a large, ethereal abanico that mirrored the one in Serena's hands. Embers fell from the tips as it opened and fluttered, a spectral twin to Serena's tangible prop. Sylveon, playing along in this choreographed dance, pretended to clutch this ghostly fan with a feeler, her other ribbon held outward like an arm that mirrored Serena's in third position.
As the music returned with a complex rhythm, Serena and Sylveon together performed a duet of slow, fluid, and synchronized movements. Serena twisted her body and tapped her feet, her fan sweeping through the air in grand, expressive motions, while Sylveon copied her, one feeler waving the phantom fan in perfect harmony and her other ribbon a mirror to Serena's other arm.
Clemont, ever the analyst, watched intently, remarking, "Incredible…and while Serena's flamenco movements may not be as precise as she wants, she seems just as passionate!"
Arven, arms folded across his chest, nodded in agreement, "Her special effects are incomparable." Though even the dance itself was like watching water trickling down the smooth faces of riverstones.
At the climax of the music, Pancham seized his moment, using Arm Thrust to leap through Sylveon's abanico just as Delphox's psychic outline faded. The dark flames shattered into countless harmless, purple-lit embers that cascaded down upon the audience like a gentle rain.
The strings of a guitar swelled towards a finale. Sylveon and Pancham moved to flank Serena. Sylveon swiftly gathered the falling embers with Fairy Wind, preventing them from touching the ground. The whirlwind also scooped up flower petals that had drifted from the blooms in Serena's hair, creating a romantic swirl of shadowy sparks of fire and sunset colored petals.
Pancham, having prepared Ice Punch that left his forearms frozen, clapped and ground his hands together, sending sparkles of glittering ice shards that shimmered like silver dust through the wind.
The combination surrounded Serena and her Pokémon, all the while they did not stop dancing.
Then, with a knowing nod to Sylveon, Serena looked upward expectantly. Her Fairy type responded with Swift, sending brilliant stars shooting upwards into the vortex.
From outside the gale, Delphox seemed to ride the wind, leaping high over the stars as they came towards her. She inhaled. Then exhaled. A Mystical Fire forced the stars to burst into stunning sparkling fragments that umbrellaed over the stage like a meteor shower.
Meanwhile, the whirlwind protected Serena and her other Pokémon from even feeling the flames, the residual fire riding the outer borders of the wind.
The final notes of the music played and then ceased. The whirlwind disintegrated in a perfectly timed whoosh. Serena, Delphox, Pancham, and Sylveon posed triumphantly together—hovering some feet from the ground, the Fox Pokémon's eyes glowing blue.
Serena beamed, her abanico dramatically held open with her right arm extended above her head, her back arched, her left hand open towards the adoring audience.
In a clear, breathless voice, Serena announced:
"Ta-da!"
The crowd screamed and everyone was on their feet.
What could have been a straightforward victory for the Kalos Queen turned into a fiercely contested Showcase, thanks to the standout performances of Serena's talented protégées. Ana and Ohara had also commanded standing ovations from the audience after each had performed, some of their combinations made even more so impressive by their use of only one or two Pokémon.
Ana, particularly, emerged as a dark horse in the competition. She wore a modernized flamenco dress that perfectly complemented her Pokémon partners, Sprigatito and Dachsbun. The dress was a tapestry of greens, featuring a bodice embroidered with delicate floral patterns that cascaded down into a flowing skirt with layers of lighter green that fluttered with her movements. Her sleeves were sheer, dotted with tiny, flower-like embellishments that caught the light with every arm extension, enhancing the fluidity and grace of her dance.
Her abanico matched the botanical theme of her outfit and had fluttered elegantly in her hands, becoming an extension of her arms as she moved across the stage.
Ana's command of her choreography also left fans in awe. With her abanico in hand, she executed precise, spirited steps, each stomp and twirl perfectly timed to the music. All the while Sprigatito wove through her legs and around her swirling skirt, casting Magic Leaf to create a swirl of glowing leaves around them. The Grass type also used Seed Bomb periodically, sending bursts of seeds that popped in mid-air, creating a spectacle of nature's own confetti as the seeds were carried upon Dachsbun's pink Fairy Wind.
After the third performer, Lola, with her Piplup and Kirklia, had left the stage to robust applause, Bonnie couldn't help but express her awe. "They are all just so talented," she sighed, her eyes wide with admiration.
Arven, watching the show unfold with a smile, leaned forward nodded in agreement, his joy evident. "Serena's a great teacher," he commented, reflecting on his personal interactions with the girls back when he had helped them with their cooking. His pride in their growth and performance was clear in his expression.
Garnering any opinion from Ash was useless at this point. He was still in a state of shock from Serena's number and all the girls—and Pikachu—merely rolled their eyes and giggled.
When Ohara took the stage, it became apparent why she was considered an incredible dancer—especially in traditional flamenco. Her movements were impeccably sharp, with a precision that spoke of her deep understanding and practice of the dance form. Her footwork was particularly notable—each tap and stomp resonated with controlled power—while her hands, even with her abanico in one hand, snapped and added pitos that synchronized with the percussion in the music.
She didn't only stand out because of her incredible choreography, however, but by her choice to perform with only one Pokémon, Fuecoco.
Initially, this seemed like a disadvantage compared to the other performers who had multiple Pokémon to enhance combination moves. However, midway through her routine, she surprised everyone by Terastallizing Fuecoco, transforming the Fire Crocodile into a glittering spectacle and enhancing his fiery abilities.
"Wait! Why hasn't anyone else thought to do that?" Bonnie exclaimed, genuinely puzzled at the innovation.
Nemona grinned broadly, "It takes a lot of practice to train a Pokémon in a Terastallized form. The others had numerous Pokémon performing all at once, but Ohara just has Fuecoco, which probably allowed her to give him the attention he needed."
"That's awesome!" Aliquis pumped his fists. .
From the wings of the stage, Serena watched Ohara and the shimmering Fuecoco perform their dance and combinations flawlessly, clapping and cheering beside her own Pokémon. The sight of the Terastallized Pokémon moving in harmony with Ohara under the spotlight was truly mesmerizing, captivating the audience entirely.
When she and Fuecoco had finished, the crowd's reaction was immediate and enthusiastic. They stood, clapped, and whistled, their applause filling the auditorium with a roaring approval that resonated deeply with the young performer. Ohara, maintaining her final pose, looked out into the sea of faces with awe and humility at the overwhelming admiration.
At last, she made it backstage. Overcome with emotion from the response of her performance, Ohara fell into Serena's arms and cried.
When the Showcase was over, all fifteen of the girls had congregated in Serena's dressing room, each one expressing their congratulations and sharing in the collective joy of the evening's successes. Serena, although the victor, had won by a narrower margin than usual, a fact that thrilled her.
"That was the most amazing night of my life!" Ana exclaimed, spinning her Sprigatito and Dachsbun around in her arms, her face alight with happiness. The girls around her nodded and voiced their agreement, caught up in the magic of the moment.
Ohara, however, let out a dreamy sigh. "I can't believe it's over though…" she murmured, her tone wistful.
Serena, momentarily turning away from Kathi Grace—who was bustling about the room distributing bouquets of flowers and boxes of chocolates sent to all the performers—caught Ohara's comment and quickly reassured her.
Grabbing the petite girl's shoulders gently, the honey-blonde encouraged, "It's not over! I told you all, Tulip and I are going to work together to find someone to work at Scarlet Academy as a Performance Coach. Then you guys will be doing Showcases all the time! And hopefully all across Paldea!"
The girls erupted into excited squeals and shared hugs, their spirits lifted by the prospect of continuing their performance journeys. Indeed, Serena was earnestly hoping to invite a few people to help kickstart the program at Scarlet Academy until a more permanent coach could be found.
As the girls continued to chat and snack on chocolates, a knock sounded at the dressing room door. "I'll answer it!" Ana declared, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.
"Ana!" Serena playfully chided, though she couldn't resist a quick glance in the mirror to check her appearance, delicately running a finger beneath her lips to ensure her makeup was still in place.
Giggles filled the room as Ash and Pikachu stepped through the door. Ash looked a bit surprised to see the room so crowded, his smile slightly nervous as he scratched the back of his head with his free hand, the other holding the bouquet of carnations.
"Hey, Ash!" Ohara greeted, trying to put the young champion at ease. "Did you enjoy the show?"
Ash brightened at the cue. "It was amazing! You all were awesome, weren't they, Pikachu?" He replied, his shoulders relaxing.
"Pikachu! Pika!" Pikachu nodded enthusiastically, clearly agreeing with his trainer.
The girls soon started fussing over the little yellow rodent, showering him with affection, much to his delight. Meanwhile, Ash and Serena locked eyes across the room. Serena's smile was almost apologetic as the girls eagerly bombarded Ash with questions about his favorite performances, his thoughts on Serena's routine, and the flowers he had brought.
Serena's patience began to wane under the barrage of questions. Her relief was palpable when Ohara, sensing her friend's growing exasperation, intervened with a knowing look. "Well, why don't we leave to let Ash tell Serena what he thought…"
Ana, feigning disappointment with a teasing pout, chimed in, "Oh, so he didn't come backstage to see all of us? Que lástima." Then turning to Serena with a bright, genuine smile, she added, "But thank you, Serena. Thank you for helping us find our Treasure!"
The group of girls enveloped Serena in a series of warm, enthusiastic hugs, their laughter and cheerful chatter filling the dressing room. With one final giggle, they exited, leaving Serena and Ash alone at last.
Ash let out a long breath of relief as the door closed behind them, his eyes following the last of the girls out. He turned back to Serena slowly, shifting awkwardly from foot to foot, the bouquet of flowers still clutched in his hand. A sheepish grin spread across his face as he tried to temper the mix of anticipation and nervousness that had built over the last two weeks they had been apart. He was painfully aware of her still in the two-piece costume, which didn't help him to stay cool and collected…
Serena returned his smile, a slight blush coloring her cheeks as she clasped her hands before her, waiting. She wanted to say something, but also wanted to see what Ash would say or do first.
She had really missed him….not that two weeks was very long…but it had felt like forever.
Meanwhile, Ash had wanted to say something. Had thought of a bunch of things he could say. But now alone with her, he couldn't think so much as utter a word. He found himself too oddly relieved to see her—standing before him like the girl he knew. The girl he'd always known.
And so instead of speaking, Ash just did what he was best at: following his instincts.
He dropped the flowers and quickly closed the distance between them, wrapping Serena in a tight hug. Lifting her off the ground, he twirled her once, then twice, her squeals of delight mingling with the soft rustle of her skirt. Setting her back down, they both burst into laughter, the longing of the past weeks dissipating in their joy. Leaning in, Ash captured her lips in a kiss.
Serena sighed, slipping his hat off his head to run her fingers through his hair.
"I see you got my message…" Serena smiled against his lips, her voice muffled.
Ash, in between kisses soft and sweet and tender, murmured, "Yeah…I did…"
Meanwhile, Pikachu, ever the responsible one, moved to salvage the bouquet Ash had dropped. He gathered up the flowers as best he could, muttering to himself at the carelessness, and placed them on the sofa. He then joined Delphox, Pancham, and Sylveon as they indulged in boxes of gifted chocolates and poképuffs, debating over which flavors were the best.
Finally, Ash and Serena parted, both slightly breathless, as they pressed their foreheads together and smiled, eyes shining.
Serena studied Ash's travel-worn clothes, her blue eyes twinkling with amusement as she reached out to brush some of the dust from his vest. "How was Artazon? Did you get your badge?" she asked, her voice light and curious.
Ash nodded enthusiastically, beginning to ramble about his adventures—the gym battle, his encounter with Brassius, and Wattrel evolving. As he spoke, he was keenly aware of his fingers occasionally brushing against the bare skin of her midriff, each accidental touch sending a jolt through him. He was really trying to keep his hand firmly on her waist, but Serena's slight movements as she adjusted his clothes and playfully placed his hat back on his head made it a challenging task.
"I'm so happy for you, Ash!" Serena beamed, her eyes gleaming with pride. "But I knew you'd come back with a badge."
Ash puffed with pride at her confidence, but soon flushed and had to control his breathing when her arms slipped around his neck. Again, his thumbs grazed her stomach while he adjusted his grip on her waist. His breath caught a little. Had she always been this soft? Was all of her that soft?
Ash violently shook the thought out of his head.
"What is it?" Serena asked, her expression turning to one of concern.
"Sorry, nothing," Ash chuckled nervously. "I was just thinking about today." He wasn't lying. "Larry came by the gym while we were there and asked some weird questions. I'll tell you about it later," he shrugged, not wanting to worry her. "But for a moment, I was worried I wasn't going to make it to the Showcase!"
"Well, I told you that you didn't have to come," Serena replied, her voice soft as she kissed his cheek and pulled away. "But I'm so glad you made it."
Ash smiled down at her, then suddenly remembered the flowers. "Oh! And I got you something!" He said, momentarily releasing her to fetch the bouquet of carnations, stumbling a bit as he did so.
Really, Ash thought, he needed to get a grip. He couldn't keep having mini heart attacks every time she stepped out in some new costume that made her look so amazing…and he needed to stop hyper-fixating on certain things about her. Like how her stomach seemed smooth and firm and soft all at once…or how her legs looked so long in dresses or shorter skirts and things that had slits in them, and how the skin just beneath the corner of her jaw looked like silk…
Ash practically shoved the flowers in her face, trying to distract Serena from his burning cheeks.
It seemed to work. He watched as Serena's eyes lit up as she buried her face in the ruffled petals, inhaling deeply. "Oh, they're beautiful!" she exclaimed, turning to show them to the Pokémon. "Look you guys!"
Delphox nodded approvingly, while Pikachu puffed up with pride, as if to indicate his role in choosing them. Practically glowing, Serena bent down with the flowers, letting Pancham and Sylveon smell the blooms as well.
Ash loved how something as simple as flowers could make her so happy. He was suddenly excited at the idea of doing more things to make her happy. It was the best feeling in the world, seeing her smile like that.
Suddenly, Ash didn't want the night to end. He didn't want to have to leave her. And he wanted to keep making her happy.
"Hey, Serena!" Ash said, stepping up beside her and adjusting his hat with a quick flick. "Have you eaten yet? Can I take you out?" He added, and then tried to temper his enthusiasm, "Or, I get it if you're tired after—"
"I'm not tired," Serena interrupted quickly, then blushed at her own eagerness. "I mean, I would love that."
"Okay, cool," Ash replied, his hands in his pockets as he smiled shyly, bouncing on the tips of his toes. "Anywhere you'd like to go?"
"Well, I'm actually just craving dessert," Serena confessed with a shy look. "Does ice cream sound okay?"
Ash raised an excited fist, as determined as if he were about to challenge a rival to a Pokémon battle. "I think that sounds like the best idea ever!"
"Of course you do," Serena teased, still smiling at him. "You love dessert."
"Which is why I'm perfect for you!" Ash blurted out, then blushed at the boldness of his statement and scratched his nose. "For right now, at least."
Serena's cheeks colored as well, her heart fluttering at his words. "For always," she thought but held back, not wanting to come on too strong. Though she was acutely aware of how the depth of her feelings for Ash were only growing stronger and more profound with each passing day she was his.
After a little pause, Serena planted a quick kiss on Ash's cheek, smiling at him. "Let me get changed then we can go."
Ash looked at her, unable to help glancing her up and down for the briefest of moments, thinking that she didn't really need to change. But then the young champion blushed hard. "I'll wait outside…"
Warm and a little flustered, he did just that.
As Ash and Serena left through the backstage door, they were met with a flurry of flashing cameras and eager reporters clamoring for a comment—wanting to know what Ash thought of the performance, or hoping to confirm that Serena's abanico act had been for him. Trying to politely wave them off, Ash instinctively stepped in front of Serena, shielding her with his body as they navigated through the crowd. Kathi Grace was there as well to orchestrate the chaos to the best of her abilities, effectively diverting some of the attention, creating just enough of a distraction for the couple to slip away.
Once they had managed to escape the clamor of the press, Serena and Ash headed straight to her apartment to drop off their Pokémon. They promised their excited companions that they would bring back something special for them, receiving enthusiastic chirps and nods in response from everyone except Delphox, who eyed the couple sternly.
Leaving the apartment with nervous smiles, Serena and Ash walked towards the edge of town where the atmosphere was more secluded and tranquil. Mesagoza did not sleep even with the late hour—in fact, it grew even more alive. After some deliberating, Ash swallowed and drew up the courage to slip Serena's hand into his own. Normally, he wouldn't want to cause a scene with people around and he was still self-conscious about being affectionate in public. But right now, he didn't really care. Ash wanted people to know she was with him—especially when he noticed other guys throwing second, third, fourth glances her way.
Of course, Ash didn't blame them. Serena still looked beautiful, even dressed down in a simple black dress. She still wore her hair up, saying something about it being a pain to unpin, though a few strands had fallen to frame her face. Ash couldn't remember the last time he'd seen her with her hair up, but he loved it.
As they walked side by side under the starlit sky, Ash gave Serena's hand a gentle squeeze, smiling at her.
She squeezed back
They eventually stumbled upon a Sugar-N-Ice south of the central plaza. The sight of an immense ice cream boat advertised outside the shop caught Ash's attention immediately. Intrigued, he ordered the towering dessert—loaded with scoops of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream, all smothered in whipped cream and topped with cherri berries. His eyes widened and his mouth watered in anticipation as the server handed him the enormous treat.
"That's bigger than your stomach, Ash!" Serena laughed as she observed the size of his dessert.
"Well, maybe my stomach needs to get bigger?" Ash considered aloud, a playful grin on his face.
Shaking her head with a smile, Serena opted for something more simple, ordering a cone with chocolate chip and cherri berry ice cream.
With their desserts in hand, the couple wandered outside the city gates toward a quiet ledge overlooking the river. Sitting side by side, their feet dangling over the edge, they enjoyed the serene view. Between bites of their desserts, Ash recounted more details about his gym battle, and they discussed Larry's unusual questions about the Explorers, wondering what his interest might mean.
"But Brassius doesn't think they're a real thing," Ash said through a mouth full of whipped cream.
Serena tilted her head, curious. "Then why is Larry asking about it? He must think it's something worth investigating."
Ash paused, sucking on his spoon for a moment before tapping it thoughtfully against his nose. "That's true," he conceded, the mystery lingering in his mind.
Their discussion then veered towards their respective Pokémon, particularly Kilowattrel's recent evolution and Charcadet's ongoing temper issues. Ash expressed his concerns, his brow furrowing slightly. "Charcadet still needs a lot of work."
Serena offered a reassuring smile, her voice soft yet confident. "I think Charcadet just wants to impress you, maybe even to prove himself. He is surrounded by some very capable partners."
"Yeah, I think so," Ash sighed, sticking his spoon into his ice cream as he took a momentary break from eating. "I just wish that I could get him to see that he doesn't have to do all that for me to be proud of him."
"You'll figure out a way to get through to him," Serena answered, rubbing Ash's shoulder, believing in his ability to connect with his Pokémon.
The conversation paused as they both looked out over the river, the moonlight casting a silvery glow over the valleys of Area One. The serene landscape, with its sloping green hills and layered cliffs, offered a moment of quiet they both seemed to need.
After the pause, Serena pinched the corners of her mouth to wipe away ice cream residue with her fingers. "So what did you think of the Showcase, Ash? I never asked you?"
Ash turned towards her just as she brought her ice cream back to her lips, skillfully maneuvering her tongue around the base of the cone to prevent it from dripping.
His gaze lingered on her and felt a warm flush rise up through his neck. He shifted uncomfortably, looking away before offering a weak though earnest smile. "You know I thought it was really great," he said, glancing out over the river as though searching for his thoughts. "Teaching Delphox Psychic was genius. She'll also use that for contests, and it makes her really powerful."
Serena beamed, bumping his shoulder lightly with her own. "I thought you'd approve."
Ash chuckled, his smile broadening as he glanced back down at his ice cream. "And all the girls seemed to have a blast, and the fact that it was close in the end just shows what an amazing mentor you've been to them." He then glanced back at Serena, his face warming as he swallowed and stammered, playing with his spoon, "A-and you looked, well, really beautiful by the way. I know you, um, like it when I tell you so…"
Serena's expression softened, her face taking on an angelic quality in the moonlight. "Thanks, Ash. That means a lot," she sighed, looking down at the river. "I almost wish I didn't win...that Ohara won so that the girls could see that it's possible for anyone to be the best, even if just for a moment. I—I don't want them to get discouraged. Really, part of me doesn't even think I deserved to win. Ohara's flamenco was so much better."
Ash shook his head, disliking her second-guessing. "Serena, you deserved it. Not only were you and your Pokémon incredible, but you brought all the girls so far. And even if you weren't perfect during the dancing, you did your best and that made everyone smile. Everyone." He paused, then a teasing smile played on his lips. "Well, maybe everyone except Jessilee."
Serena threw her hands in the air, bewildered and amused. "How did she even get in the Showcase?!"
"I don't know," Ash shrugged, laughing. "I left them tied up to a lamppost in Artazon and they still not only managed to get to Mesagoza in time for the show, but sneak Jessie into it with some elaborate costume."
Serena took another bite of her ice cream and shook her head in awe. "In some ways, they're incredible."
They both laughed again, harder this time—leaning against each other's shoulders.
Eventually they calmed down enough to keep eating. Ash watched Serena take another bite of her ice cream, her mouth sliding over the vanilla, and he unconsciously studied the way the treat clung to her lips, his gaze lingering a bit too long.
"So," Ash cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck. His eyes eventually flickered back to meet Serena's, a boyish grin spreading across his face. "Maybe I can get another kiss now. You know, for saying all those encouraging things?"
Caught mid-bite, Serena flushed and guffawed, momentarily flustered. "Ash!" She looked both amused and slightly chiding as she realized he had been staring at her lips. "Are you telling me you said all those 'encouraging things' just to get another kiss?"
Ash blanched at the accusation, quickly backtracking. "No way! I mean," he stammered, his face turning positively crimson, "I do want a kiss, but I meant all those things too. I promise!" He straightened his posture and puffed out his chest as though that would make him more believable.
Serena's cheeks continued to glow with a rosy tint, but she was determined not to be the only one flustered. "We could kiss," the performer began slowly. Maintaining her gaze on Ash with mock suspicion, a twinkle of mischief sparkled in her eyes as she thought of a playful way to shift the dynamic. "But I'd rather play a game instead. What do you think?"
Ash cocked his head to the side, suddenly curious and trying not to look disappointed. "A game? Sure!" He was eager to go along with it, partly to get her to forget about his little mess up from earlier.
Sensing his willingness to make amends, Serena laughed softly, her giggles light and reassuring. She scooted closer to him, her clear eyes dancing with mischief and some timidity. "You have to close your eyes," she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur.
Ash obeyed immediately, not without wondering how if it were anyone else, he would not have done so. But he trusted Serena more than anyone, and so the young champion did what she said, shivering slightly as he thought of what she might be up to.
As he waited in the silence, eyes closed, he could hear Serena shifting beside him. Just as he was about to ask about the rules of this game or when he could open his eyes, he felt something brush against his mouth.
Serena's kiss was cold and creamy.
She pressed it gently against his top lip, lingering a moment before pulling away, leaving the chilled residue of her dessert against his mouth.
Instinctively, Ash licked his lips, tasting the sweet, melted flavor. His eyes fluttered open, a look of mild astonishment crossing his face, quickly transforming into a broad grin as he processed what just happened.
Serena laughed at his expression and held up a finger to stop the young champion when he tried to lean in for more. "Wait, you have to guess..." she smiled shyly, pointing to her ice cream cone on which sat her two flavors. "Which flavor did I kiss you with? If you guess right, then I'll kiss you again." Her cheeks flushed a deep scarlet at this point. She had wanted to come across flirty and confident, but Ash just flustered her no matter what she did.
Ash's eyes glittered with determination and unbridled eagerness. "I like this game."
Serena arched an eyebrow, a little smirk forming on her lips. "I knew you would…" she responded, her confidence bolstered by his enthusiastic reaction.
"Wait," Ash started, growing worried. He realized he hadn't been paying too much attention to the flavor of the ice cream Serena had used; he had been far more focused on the feeling of her lips against his. "What happens if I don't guess correctly?"
Serena's smile turned more coquettish. "Then the game is over," she teased, her eyes sparkling.
Ash looked actually distraught and began to think very hard about which flavor Serena had used to kiss him. He eyed her cone, his gaze intense and analytical, as though he were strategizing for a crucial Pokémon battle. Finally, with a look of desperation, he made his choice. "Cherri berry," he declared, hoping his intuition was right.
Serena giggled, clearly delighted by his earnestness. She nodded at him before taking a deliberate bite of the cherri berry flavor, which sat temptingly at the base of her cone.
Ash grinned broadly, "I'm very good at this, huh?"
"There were really only two choices... it wasn't hard," Serena teased, her tone light.
Ash glanced down at his own towering dessert, then back at Serena with almost an impish smile. "Well, I think it's my turn."
Serena's face flushed a delicate pink, her pulse quickening as she felt the tables turn. Nevertheless, she swallowed her nerves and nodded, determined and expectant. She closed her eyes.
Ash took his time, not on purpose though. He let almost a full minute pass while he made his careful deliberations, during which the only sound was the distant hum of the city and the soft lapping of the river against the banks.
"Ash, you're taking forever!" Serena protested, her eyes still firmly shut.
"Well, this is a very important decision!" the young champion declared, finally selecting a spoonful of ice cream. Before tasting it himself, he added, "And for the record, if you don't get this right, I get to kiss you again."
Before Serena could object to Ash's sudden amendment to the rules, she felt something cold and sweet press against her lips. Ash lingered there, as though wanting to make sure she got a good taste. His mouth was warm beneath the ice cream.
Unable to resist—whether out of a desire to get back at Ash for making her wait or simply because she truly couldn't stop herself—Serena reacted instinctively. She brought her tongue to gently sweep over Ash's bottom lip, tasting him; savoring him and the kiss.
Ash felt a surge of exhilaration. His heart seemed to leap from his chest and a jolt of electricity coursed through his body, leaving him shivering from the unexpected intensity of the sensation. He nearly fumbled his entire dessert, his grip loosening as he struggled to maintain his composure, the bowl teetering perilously close to tumbling into the river below.
He pulled away, breathless and slightly dazed, his eyes wide as he observed Serena. Her eyes fluttered open slowly, revealing a vulnerability that mirrored his own. The soft moonlight highlighted the vivid scarlet that had blossomed across her cheeks, as though she realized what she'd done.
"Vanilla," Serena whispered, breathless.
Ash could only nod dumbly in response, his mind still reeling. His eyes flickered back and forth, captivated by the softness in her gaze and then drawn inexorably to her mouth.
"It's your turn again," Ash said almost gravely, as though this game and her lips were the most important things right now.
Serena issued forth a nervous laugh, clearly still embarrassed and scrambling for anything to help them both forget about what she'd just done. "Well," the performer began carefully, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear while looking up at him anxiously, "close your eyes…"
Ash was as obedient as a Lillipup. He waited, ready, boyishly eager to try that same little tongue trick on her—his mind obsessing about it.
But he never got the chance.
He only felt a full scoop of ice cream get shoved against his mouth and then heard giggling.
Ash's eyes snapped open, and he saw Serena darting away, the remainder of her cone in hand, while one scoop stayed comically stuck to the young champion's face.
Ash grinned past the chocolate chips. He shot up, his own ice cream forgotten and began chasing after her, his face still dripping with the cold treat.
"I think that was cheating!" He called out, laughter in his voice.
Serena continued to retreat playfully, laughing as she called back, "Well, the rules seemed to change every round!" She squealed when Ash caught up to her, grabbing her wrist to pull her close, causing the rest of her cone to slip from her fingers and tumble to the floor. She squealed again as Ash leaned in to try for a kiss.
"Ash, you're a mess!" She laughed, her hands against his chest.
Ash pulled back to eye her with playful accusation, his face still a hilarious sight covered in melting ice cream. "And who's fault is that?"
Serena just shook her head, smiling broadly as she pulled a wad of napkins from the pocket of her dress. She began wiping the sticky treat off Ash's jaw, chin, nose, and finally his lips with gentle, caring motions.
She paused a moment, considering those lips before glancing back up at him, her fingers lingering a touch longer than necessary. Her breath caught seeing his beautiful, dark gaze intensely on her, waiting.
Her heart fluttered again to think how much she had missed him, how deeply she loved him.
"Um," Serena tore her eyes away from Ash's and cleared her throat, trying to hide her emotions as she shyly retracted her hand. "You're all clean now…"
Before she could pull away completely, Ash gently gripped her, holding her close. He was busy making sure nothing about her had changed the last two weeks; to make sure that his memory of her, whenever they had to be away, did her beauty justice. And as he held her, Ash saw the familiar sparkle in her blue eyes that always seemed to light up his world, the soft curve of her cheeks and lips, the gentle arch of her brows, and the way the loose strands of her hair seemed to perfectly frame her face even after a long day. To Ash, every detail was precious. Especially as the realization that they wouldn't always be together, in the same place, dawned on him—though not for the first time.
"I missed you," Ash admitted softly, and he thought he might have been speaking not just about the two weeks.
"I missed you too," Serena responded, her voice tender, her hand idly playing with a button on his vest. When she looked up at him, she found him still waiting, just like she had been waiting for him in the dressing room—waiting to see what would happen next.
Serena wondered at that, adored it, and tried not to laugh at the earnestness in his eyes—so hopeful, so full of love. Biting her lip, she tilted her chin up towards him and pushed herself up the last few inches between them to softly kiss his lips.
Ash met her kiss eagerly halfway, one hand moving to the back of her neck to deepen their connection. He just wanted to feel close to her after being apart for a little while, and he tried to say as much as he moved his lips against hers, slipping an arm around her waist to draw her even closer.
As Serena responded to his kiss, a wave of heated sensations flooded through her, sensations that mirrored those from her dreams about Ash. She sighed through her nose, trying to control her breathing—and her yearning—but it was difficult. She had very little context for these feelings; and the intensity of their connection, the rightness of being in his arms, was overwhelming and made her dizzy.
Meanwhile, Ash was trying to draw up the courage to do more with the kiss. Inefficiently—his mind scattering beneath Serena's touch as she ran her hands up his arms before coming to rest at his shoulders—Ash thought of how he might be able to deepen their connection…and he drew many blanks. He kept having visions of running his tongue across her bottom lip like she'd done earlier, but that seemed a bit terrifying now and out of place—maybe it wasn't even something people did? Maybe she had just been playing the game, trying to taste the ice cream…
But he had really liked it and he just wanted to taste her…
Shuddering at the thought, Ash's grip tightened unconsciously, pulling Serena even closer until she moaned softly against him. The sound startled them both.
They pulled away from each other, lungs starved of air, faces flushed, and hearts racing.
The sudden quiet around them seemed stark compared to the pounding in their ears. They were frozen in place, their silence punctuated only by the gentle sounds of the river nearby.
Eventually, trying to hide her embarrassment but also suddenly exhausted, Serena carefully rested her head on Ash's chest, hiding her crimson cheeks. She was surprised to feel his heartbeat, rapid and strong, mirroring her own accelerated pulse. The shared rhythm of their hearts seemed to anchor her, calming her.
Ash felt her relax in his arms. He also used the contact to ground himself, trying to focus on the moment rather than the involuntary tension in his muscles that her touch seemed to cause.
Pulling away slightly to look down at her, Ash suddenly remembered something important he'd wanted to ask.
"When should we go to Pallet Town?"
Serena blinked, as if being pulled from a daze, then hummed. "Well," she smiled carefully, "I have a lot of flexibility in the next few weeks until my first contest in Levincia." She then delicately extricated herself from Ash's hold to begin picking up the mess they had made with their ice cream, hoping that would distract her from her lingering embarrassment.
Really, she would need to talk to someone about her flustered feelings to make sense of them. They were annoying, and she couldn't think straight around them.
"Oh!" Ash joined her in cleaning up, his movements a bit clumsy, clearly still affected by the kiss. He leaned against a trash can after throwing away their leftovers, almost knocking it over in the process. He quickly caught it, replacing the lid. "We should go during your break, then! Like for a long weekend," he suggested, his voice rising with excitement. "Um, I want to go to Levincia to battle Iono—she's the next gym leader I want to take on," he added, clearing his throat and sticking his hands in his pockets. "I think there's an airport there. We could go check out Levincia—maybe I take on the gym—then we go to Pallet Town for a little bit, and we can come back for your contest...and we can do it all together…"
Ash winced slightly, hoping he didn't sound too eager.
Serena blinked at him, surprised by the proposal and already trying to wade through logistics. "But what about your classes?" she asked, eyeing him warily.
"We have a week off in two weeks!" Ash replied quickly, his excitement palpable. "So we could leave next Friday!"
Serena considered this, trying to temper her own excitement at the idea. It seemed almost too good to be true. She wanted to make sure she wasn't forgetting something important…traveling with Ash for the next few weeks would be a dream. Kathi Grace wouldn't love it, but Tulip had already wanted Serena to go Levincia to work on a collaboration with Iono, who was also a supposed social media influencer.
"I will need to train for my contests…" she added, still cautious though her face was already beginning to brighten.
"I could help you! We could train together!" Ash offered enthusiastically.
Serena beamed, now allowing her full excitement to unleash. "And you know! I've been thinking of finding a new friend to expand my team, Ash!" she said, gripping his arm and practically jumping up and down. "Maybe you could help me decide... I want to have more versatility for contests and even performances!"
"That would be amazing!" Ash responded, equally thrilled. "Was there a specific Pokémon you were thinking of? Maybe going to Professor Oak's lab could help you get an idea! But you know," he continued, already very invested in the idea for her, "I think a Water-type or Grass-type would be an awesome addition for your team!"
"I thought the same thing, Ash!" Serena gasped, her enthusiasm matching his.
The two of them, giddy with excitement, talked more about potential additions to expand Serena's party and then sketched out their travel plans. They grew more animated with each passing moment, thrilled at the prospect of spending the next few weeks together, exploring new and old places side-by-side once again.
Hahaha, I know I know. Romance Goblin is toeing the line! But fr the ice cream scene was another I had in mind since the infancy of this fic. Teehee :3
But hooray! Ash and Serena will be traveling together for the next four or five chapters or so where we have a lot of exciting things planned! Another gym battle, more Pokémon for our young heroes, a beach scene ?, and Pallet Town! Wow! Oh (and we'll have to see what the bad guys have been up to. Grr.)
Til next time!