Well here we go! Part 1/3 (possibly 4) in Pallet Town. These will definitely be important chapters to set things up in the future—not just for our lovely couple, but for everyone else, so let's get to it!

I actually had to split this chapter up as it was getting way too long. So expect the next chapter relatively soon, actually. More notes at the end though! Don't want to spoil.

Chapter 31: The Past and Present

The hum of machinery filled Clavell's office, broken only by the sound of Clemont's fingers tapping commands into his custom-built control panel. On the desk between them, inside a transparent containment chamber, a Water Tera Shard—randomly chosen—sat suspended by magnetic fields, glowing faintly under the artificial lights. Several screens flickered, displaying energy readings and stability levels.

Clemont leaned in, his eyes narrowing behind his glasses. "Alright, director, let's start the extraction slowly. We need to see if we can safely pull the energy out without destabilizing it."

Clavell stood beside him, his gaze steady on the Tera Shard. "Proceed with caution. We don't want to trigger a chain reaction." His voice was calm, but Clemont could sense the tension that hung in the air. They had both come to realize how volatile the shards were, especially when tampered with outside of the specialized conditions found in Area Zero or Tera Caves. While there was energy in them, that energy seemed to have a mind of its own without having a proper channel.

With a few taps on the control panel, Clemont began the process. The chamber hummed louder as a low-frequency pulse emitted from the machine, aimed at the shard. They watched as the faint glow intensified, the shard's energy responding to the extraction attempt.

"So far, so good," Clemont muttered, glancing at the monitor that tracked energy output. "It's drawing out slowly, like we planned."

Clavell nodded, his eyes fixed on the crystal as it pulsed rhythmically. "We need to see how much we can extract before it destabilizes. Keep an eye on—"

The shard flickered violently, a crackling sound filling the air as the glow turned from a soft shimmer to a blinding flare. Alarms blared on the console, and Clemont's fingers flew across the controls, trying to stabilize the extraction.

"It's spiking! I'm reducing the energy draw—"

Before Clemont could finish, a sharp hiss erupted from the containment chamber, and a small but forceful explosion burst forth. Clemont barely had time to duck before a plume of black smoke filled the air. The containment chamber's fail-safes activated, dousing the fire immediately, but it was too late. Clemont stood there, motionless for a moment, his glasses askew and his face entirely covered in black soot.

Clavell, blinking through the smoke, stared at Clemont's ash-covered face. "Are you alright?"

Clemont coughed, his hair now sticking up in wild tufts. "Well, that was unexpected," he said, trying to sound nonchalant, but his voice wavered with nervous energy. Wiping his face with the back of his sleeve only smeared the ash around more. He gave Clavell a sheepish grin. "I guess the containment system wasn't enough for that energy spike. But no worries! The future is now, thanks to science! I will work on another."

Clavell sighed, though a trace of amusement danced in his eyes. "It seems these raw shards are even more volatile than we anticipated. It's clear that extracting energy from them in this environment is impossible without risking further explosions." He paused, thinking.

"Makes me appreciate the Tera Orb even more as a sophisticated containment device that is able to redirect the energy without having to extract it." Clemont stepped back from the control panel, removing his glasses to wipe the lens with a tissue procured from his pocket. "But the energy is just too unstable to be separated from its source. We're missing something crucial here…The shards are like," he snapped his fingers trying to think of something, "Combees without a hive. If we want to tap into their true potential, we need to go to where they're still connected to their raw source."

Clavell crossed his arms, nodding slowly. "You're suggesting we need to conduct a field test. In a Tera Cave, since Area Zero is impossible at the moment."

"Exactly!" Clemont's eyes lit up despite the lingering soot on his face. "If we study the shards in their natural environment, we might figure out how they draw energy and remain stable. And once we understand that, we can start testing how to harvest it safely." He wiped another smudge of ash from his cheek. "We'll need the right equipment, but the data we could collect there would be invaluable. The only way forward is to run tests in the field."

Clavell mulled it over for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he considered the risks. "If we're heading to the Tera Caves, we'll need to prepare thoroughly." he added, his gaze sharpening with a hint of concern.

"And we should have Ash come with us," Clemont stretched his neck side to side as if trying to get rid of a cramp, "I've been meaning to go with him to one of these caves anyway, as you know. If we bring him to the caves, we might learn more about how his unique 'energy'—or whatever we should call it—interacts with the crystals. It could help us understand the missing link in this puzzle—how Turo's machine was meant to tap into this energy. He might actually be helpful with unlocking the full potential of these experiments."

Clavell hummed with realization. "Of course. If Ash can amplify the shards' energy or stabilize them somehow, we could observe that interaction firsthand in the caves. Once we know how his energy affects the Tera Crystals, we could then run tests back in the lab to see what kind of conduits we need to direct that energy—whether it's conductive metals, or even biological substances."

The Kalosian scientist nodded, his mind already spinning through the possibilities. "And that would get us closer to understanding Turo's machine. If we find the right conduit, the missing component might reveal itself. We'll need to test for energy stability, loss, and capacity… See which materials can channel the energy without breaking down." Clemont's soot-covered face split into a wide grin.

"Then it's settled," Clavell decided, "I'll have Jacq and his team seek out the nearest Tera Cave, and we'll go run our test."

"I'll head to Levincia and fetch Ash," Clemont smiled, placing his hands on his hips. He was going to meet up with everyone anyway to see Serena's first contest. It would be better for him to be with Ash when Clavell called them with news of a Tera Cave so they could go right away.

After deciding it was best to clean up and shower, Clemont made his way toward the door of Clavell's office just as it swung open. The director's secretary entered, followed by a familiar, thoroughly displeased figure. Larry, the ever-apathetic Elite Four member, stood in the doorway with a long-suffering look, as if the very act of existing in the world was a burden.

Clavell straightened up, his face marked with confusion. "Larry?" he asked, eyes narrowing slightly. "This is… unexpected. Please, come in. What brings you here?"

Larry glanced briefly at Clemont, who was edging past the secretary on his way out, his face still streaked with dirt. "It's…confidential," Larry muttered, his tone as flat as ever, but his furtive glance toward Clemont didn't go unnoticed.

Clemont blinked, giving a quick nod. "Uh, I'll leave you to it, then! I'll head off to Levincia right away. Thanks, director!" And with that, he hurried out, grateful for the excuse to escape before things got more awkward.

Once the door clicked shut behind Clemont, Clavell turned to Larry, his brow furrowed. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" The director didn't mind the dull-looking man, but he felt as though his busy days were wearing on his constitution. It was difficult to keep a self-care regime when one had to deal with constant threats to the region.

Larry sighed heavily, as if the effort of being here was almost too much. "The Explorers."

Clavell brows shot up and he took a heavy seat at the chair behind his large desk, his amusement barely concealed. "The Explorers?" He tilted his head, his tone now tinged with intrigue. "You are asking me about a secret society? Or are you telling me?"

Larry's expression didn't shift, though there was a flicker of something—perhaps frustration—behind his otherwise impassive gaze. "Yes. What do you know about them?"

For a moment, Clavell seemed to consider playing coy, but something about Larry's dour expression made him decide otherwise. He leaned back in his chair, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Very little," he said with a measured tone. "But I can humor you. The Explorers have been mentioned in various legends… rumors. However, I am not involved with their affairs—that is, if they exist.

Clavell's mind wandered as he spoke, recalling faint whispers and old tales. Internally, he couldn't help but connect the dots—he knew the Explorers were tied to the ancient myths surrounding Lucius and the Six Heroes. And he remembered the peculiar collection of books Geeta kept in her office—strange texts filled with myths about Lucius' exploits, far more than any other elite in academia would care to amass. It had always struck him as odd, but he'd never questioned her reading choices. The women read voraciously, and her office was full of unusual documents, after all.

As his thoughts returned to the present, Clavell shifted in his chair. "Though, if you're looking for someone who might know more…" he paused, choosing his words carefully, "Geeta had a particular interest in Lucius' legends. She might have deeper knowledge about the Explorers."

Larry frowned, his usual scowl deepening. "Geeta's still missing," he reminded Clavell, his voice as flat as ever but with an undercurrent of impatience.

Clavell let out a sigh, rubbing his temples. "Yes, I'm aware. But she kept an extensive library in her office. Perhaps there's something there that might help. I can escort you there, if you'd like."

Larry considered this for a moment, his dull eyes scanning Clavell's face as if weighing his options. After what felt like a long, contemplative silence, he finally nodded. "Fine."

Clavell rose from his seat, gesturing toward the door. "Then let's go. With any luck, we might find something useful in her records."

"Or something incredibly weird," Larry groaned—really, he wasn't paid enough for all this.

Clemont considered. "Very possible."

The suite was a lively mess of half-eaten breakfast plates and casual conversation as Nemona energetically announced her plans.

"Alright, equipo ! Are we ready to go find the next Team Star camp?" she asked with that ever-present spark in her voice. The others—Aliquis, Penny, Arven, Goh, and Bonnie—let out a collective, unenthusiastic murmur that barely qualified as a response.

Nemona, not missing a beat, smiled brightly. "Great! First, we'll need to gather up supplies, but let's hit the road to Area Three before noon!" She began rolling up the map of Areas Two and Three that had been sprawled out on the table. As the last bit of the map rolled up tight, she let out a long groan. "We'll have to postpone our beach day, though. Urgh! "

Dragging her fork through the eggs that she hadn't yet touched, Penny raised an eyebrow. "When was that ever in the itinerary?"

Nemona shot her a knowing grin. "When is it not in the itinerary for anyone going to Levincia?"

Aliquis, casually leaning back in his chair and tapping on his Rotom Phone, chimed in. "Nemona's right—"

"Did someone record him saying that?" Nemona interjected with a smirk, snapping her fingers theatrically.

Aliquis waved her off, taking back the dialogue. "The Secluded Beach is just south of here. Another one of 'the Wonders of Paldea.' We gotta hit it up before break's over."

Penny gave her Vaporeon a few bites of egg before resting her cheek in her palm. "But I hate being in environments where there's an overabundance of sand…and sunlight…"

Bonnie scrunched her nose. "What about environments with normal amounts of those things?"

Meanwhile, Ash and Brock had already finished breakfast and were by the suite's entrance, standing near a couple of duffle bags. Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder, his usual spark of energy on display as he twitched his tail, while Ash's foot tapped impatiently. His eyes kept darting to the door of Serena's room, his nerves only heightened by the wait.

Ash scratched the back of his head, groaning softly. "Aren't we going to be late?"

"We already are late," Brock answered, adjusting the strap of his bag across his shoulder.

Ash let out a conflicted sigh. "What's taking her so long…?"

Bonnie, a muffin halfway to her mouth, piped up with a mischievous grin. "You could go in there and find out."

Ash's face turned a mild shade of pink. "I'm just going to knock," he stammered, taking a hesitant step towards Serena's door. His knuckles rapped gently on the threshold. "Hey, Serena? We need to get going!"

"Two more minutes!" Serena's muffled voice came through.

Ash sighed again, louder this time. "You said that fifteen minutes ago..."

Brock chuckled as he slung his bag over his shoulder. "I'll go get us a car."

Ash glanced at Pikachu. "Why don't you go with him, buddy? I may need to help Serena with her stuff."

Pikachu nodded and leaped onto Brock's shoulder before the two headed out.

Ash turned back to the door, rubbing his face in frustration. He really didn't want to miss their flight—he'd been waiting forever for this. Glancing back towards the others, he saw they were all still preoccupied with wrapping up breakfast, clearly in no rush. He moaned, shaking his head as he contemplated knocking again.

Just as his hand reached for the door, it swung open slightly. Sylveon stood there, yawning lazily as she opened the door wider with one of her ribbons.

"Hey!" Ash let out a sigh of relief. "Is Serena ready yet?"

Sylveon gave him a tired "Syl, syl," gesturing for him to come inside.

Ash stepped into the room, his gaze immediately falling on Serena's pink embroidered duffle bag resting on the bed. He winced, already bracing himself for the inevitable weight. He'd carried it most of the way through Levincia and still had no clue what on earth she packed in there.

"Serena, you—" he started, but stopped short when the door to the bathroom swung open.

Serena emerged, fastening a delicate earring and smoothing her hair down with her fingers. She was rushed but composed, making a beeline for the dresser to pick up a small straw hat with a pink ribbon tied around it.

"I'm ready! Sorry! I just didn't know what to wear, but then…" She blushed as she motioned to her outfit, a simple pink summer dress that draped softly around her. She had picked it out long ago because it had reminded her of the day she first met Ash. Of course, for a while Serena had never had the nerve to actually wear it…but she'd brought it to Paldea for some reason…and then had rediscovered it buried deep behind her other clothes a few days after Ash had kissed her for the first time on the rooftop. Since then, she had been biding her time for the perfect opportunity to wear it.

Serena hesitated for a moment, as if unsure whether to explain. "I found this fitting, since, well—I haven't been to Pallet Town since the day I met you." She smiled as she placed the straw hat delicately on her head, fixed Ash's blue ribbon around her waist as an accessory, and finally clasped her hands behind her back, looking up at him expectantly. "What do you think?"

"Perfect," Ash blurted without thinking, his face flushing as he quickly adjusted the cap on his head. Really, she looked like some kind of flower in the sunshine, or like—

Serena cleared her throat softly, pulling him out of his daze. Realizing they were pressed for time, he glanced down at his Rotom Phone. "We're already late! We gotta go, and—" His eyes narrowed at the sight of the duffle bag on the bed. "Ugh, no, I need to know what you packed in here." With a groan, he hoisted the bag over his shoulder. "How did it get heavier?"

Serena, adjusting the angle of her hat in the mirror, tapped her chin. "Well, I did go shopping yesterday…" She giggled and bounced over to him. "It's not that bad, is it? Not for my superpowered Blitz-playing boyfriend…" She batted her eyes and gave Ash a brilliant smile—knowing full well the effect it would have.

Ash, face warm again, rolled his eyes with exaggerated bravado and stood up straighter, trying to pretend the bag wasn't weighing him down. "No, it's not, but I was just wondering…"

Serena placed a quick kiss on Ash's cheek, which honestly made him want to drop the bag and pull her mouth back to his—but he really was worried about making the flight.

Finally, the two emerged from the room, Sylveon trailing behind. Nemona and Bonnie squealed the moment they laid eyes on Serena's dress, practically clapping in delight.

Bonnie was the first to speak, her hands on her cheeks. "It's soooo cute!"

Nemona nodded enthusiastically. "You two are going to have the best time!"

Bonnie's expression suddenly shifted to a pout as she crossed her arms. "I'm still bummed I didn't get an invite…"

Arven, sipping his third cup of coffee, gave a long suffering sigh. "Yeah, I don't blame you guys for not bringing her."

"Arven!" Bonnie gasped.

Arven shrugged, deadpan. "What? You make me anxious."

Aliquis leaned back and didn't even look up from his phone. "You're always anxious, bro."

Goh patted Arven's shoulder, offering a grin and a thumbs up. "I dunno. You seem pretty chill to me!"

Monotone as ever, Penny mumbled through a bite of food. "A Beedrill would seem pretty chill to you…"

Ash, trying to hide his growing impatience, flung open the door and waved toward the group. "Alright, we have to go! See ya, guys! Good luck with Team Star!" With his free hand, he gently tugged Serena out the door.

Serena giggled at Ash's eagerness, giving a quick wave back. "Bye! Nemona, keep Bonnie safe! And Bonnie, text Clemont every day and—"

Before she could finish, Ash pulled her through the door, more focused on making the flight than anything else.

Aliquis raised his eyebrows. "Bro sure is eager to take a girl home to his mom. That would literally be the last thing I do…"

Nemona snorted. "Yeah, because your mom would tell anyone you brought home that they could do better."

Aliquis shot her a glare and grumbled. "That's only because she thinks I'm some kind of player."

Unimpressed, Penny added. "From what I hear, you are…"

"Not anymore," Aliquis raised his hand in mock sincerity. "I am officially changing my ways!"

Bonnie, noticing the sudden relaxation in Arven, tilted her head in curiosity. "Are you okay?"

Arven, who saw Aliquis's declaration as a reprieve from having to hear the Ace trainer 'make out' with girls next door—AND who saw this as an end to Aliquis popping over to talk to him about all his girl troubles, let out another sigh. "I feel…happy…?"

Nemona clapped her hands together. "Alright, guys, let's get ready to go, pronto !"

The Levincia airport hummed with travelers and the quiet chatter of families and their Pokémon waiting to board their flights. Across the terminal, people stood in line at coffee kiosks, while others rested in groups, their Pokémon lounging at their feet. A pair of Machiffs hurriedly followed their trainers, weaving through the bustling foot traffic, and a young girl leaned against a Fletchinder perched on a nearby bench, looking out through the large windows to watch planes take off.

Ash lay sprawled out on the floor by the gate, breathing heavily. His back rested against his large backpack and Serena's even larger duffle bag, his hat was pulled over his face. His arms were stretched out at his sides, and his legs, clad in his usual travel-worn cargo pants, were kicked out long in front of him. The physical toll of hauling both his and Serena's luggage through security was written in his exhausted posture, and yet he seemed more annoyed at himself for showing it. She had offered to help multiple times, but he wouldn't let her.

Serena sat gracefully in a chair above him, flipping idly through a glossy fashion magazine while Pikachu lounged comfortably on her lap. Sylveon sprawled beside her, the ribbons of her bow draped lazily over the seat. Brock had gone to grab water for the flight, leaving the trio with a few spare minutes before the gate would open.

The constant din of the airport provided a kind of background noise that began to relax the young champion. Every few minutes, announcements crackled overhead about departing flights and baggage claims. A small Growlithe trotted past, wagging its tail happily at the sight of Pikachu, though Pikachu only flicked an ear in acknowledgement, too relaxed to engage.

Serena's attention was suddenly pulled from her magazine as her Rotom Phone buzzed insistently. It popped up from her bag with an enthusiastic hum, indicating that Tulip was calling. Serena perked up, flipping her magazine closed.

"Hi, Tulip!" she answered, a smile lighting up her face as the phone's screen flickered to life.

On the screen, Tulip sat in a makeup chair, surrounded by a flurry of activity. Her team was putting the finishing touches on her look, and her Espathra could be seen lounging in the background, its large, curious eyes watching the room with the same languid ease as her trainer. Tulip's voice, velvety as ever, jumped straight into the conversation, even as she directed people offscreen.

"Darling, I loved your entrance last night. Bravo. You looked magnífica —no, not that shade, dear. It will mute the cerulean." She broke off momentarily, half-turned to offer instructions before turning back to Serena. "I'm getting call after call from designers wanting to collaborate with us after you were featured on SUSU in quite the spectacular fashion. It seems as though our gossip columnist is quite taken with you. That can be a very good thing, or…"

Tulip shrugged as though it didn't matter to continue. Instead, she changed courses, " No importa . Anyway, I was wondering if you could come by our warehouse in Levincia to discuss some potential outfits for your first contest."

Serena scratched her cheek, feeling a bit awkward, a small sweatdrop forming behind her head. "Er, I can't, Tulip—I'm flying to Kanto for the next few days. I thought you knew…"

Ash, who had been half-dozing under his hat, suddenly perked up at hearing Tulip's voice. He rolled over and popped up beside Serena, squeezing into the frame. His face took up half of the video call as he waved and smiled cheerfully. "Hey, Tulip!"

Tulip clucked her tongue in amusement and gave Serena an indulgent wink. "Ah, that's right. Forgive me, señorita . You did tell me." Her face brightened, but then her expression shifted as she remembered something. "But you will be back for the Coordinator's Banquet, yes? I know Lebarón is throwing it to indulge the sponsors and judges, but I do think it is best if you go. We'll be sure you look increíble. "

Serena's eyes flickered briefly, something hidden flashing behind them, but she nodded. "I'll be back by then, don't worry. Kathi Grace is arriving in Levincia tomorrow to work out details with you."

Ash's jaw tightened as the name Guillermo crossed his mind. He could feel his annoyance bubbling up. "Is Guillermo gonna be there?" He forced the words out, unable to stop himself. Really, he hated even saying the guy's name.

Tulip let out a dramatic sigh, brushing a stray hair from her forehead and then snapping for a stylist to spray it in place. "Unfortunately. But I will be there as well." Her eyes glittered with annoyance at the mention of the Contest Director. She pursed her lips, "I'll make sure he behaves."

Ash turned fully towards Serena, his face growing more resolute. "I want to come too." He glanced back at Tulip, his voice firmer than usual. "Does Serena get a date?"

Serena blinked, clearly surprised—and annoyed. "Ash!"

Tulip, musing as she stood and glided out of her dressing room, the camera following her, raised an eyebrow at Ash's suggestion. "I'll check the invitation, but I doubt it. Guillermo would know exactly who she'd bring," she added with a knowing look towards the young champion.

Ash's fists clenched at his sides, but he restrained himself from growling out loud. He turned back to Serena. "I'll find a way to get invited too."

"Ash," Serena warned this time, her voice low.

"Oh, I must go," Tulip announced, truly preoccupied while also sensing it was time for the call to end. She waved languidly towards the camera—all her movements were slow and smooth like syrup dripping from a jar. " Adiós . Enjoy your time, darlings. Rest well. Much awaits when you return."

She signed off.

As Tulip's face disappeared from the screen, a heavy silence settled between Ash and Serena. Serena's phone slid back into her purse with a soft click, leaving a quiet void in the aftermath of the conversation. Ash stared at the floor, trying not to let it all get to him, but he thought it was so disturbing that Guillermo was trying to separate him from Serena. The guy was messed up, and Ash didn't want Serena anywhere near him without being by her side. He opened his mouth, ready to say as much, but before he could get a word out, Serena turned to him, her brow already creased in irritation.

"Ash," she said in a tone that was more resigned than anything else, "you don't need to come to the banquet. It's just a party. I'll be fine."

Ash looked up at her, his jaw clenching. "But we all know what happened at the last party you went to with that creep around!"

Serena let out an exasperated sigh, shaking her head. "Ash! This is different. I'll be ready this time if he tries something—which I really don't think he would unless he wants to ruin his career for good." She glanced back down at her magazine as if that would close the topic, her voice softer but firm. "Besides, Tulip will be there, and—"

Ash rubbed his face, trying to calm himself, but he could feel his fists tightening against his will. "Serena, I just—"

"Can we talk about this later?" Serena's voice gentled further, the magazine now closed and set aside. Pikachu, sensing the tension, hopped off her lap and found a spot near Ash's legs. She moved closer to the young champion, taking one of his hands lightly in both of hers and pulling it away from his face. Her fingers squeezed his, warm and steady. "I don't want to start our trip like this."

Ash sighed, letting the warmth of her touch ease the tension in his shoulders. When he finally looked at her, it was hard to hold onto his frustration with those soft, pleading eyes fixed on him. She was asking him to relax, to let it go for now, and as much as he hated the idea of not being at the banquet, he hated upsetting Serena even more. Slowly, the tightness in his chest loosened, and he nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Okay."

Serena visibly relaxed, her shoulders dropping as she exhaled in relief. She leaned in and gave Ash a quick kiss on the corner of his mouth—just a light brush of her lips, quick and gentle, as if to seal their truce. It was a fleeting moment, made even briefer by the fact that they were in public, and Serena was always mindful of how Ash felt about public displays of affection. But despite the brevity, the gesture was filled with warmth and gratitude.

Ash's face flushed a light pink, and he instinctively glanced around, out of habit more than discomfort. But deep down, he wasn't nearly as flustered by these little moments as he used to be. In fact, he found himself really enjoying Serena's quick, spontaneous kisses, and part of him wondered how he could get more of them. He smiled a little wider, his heart feeling lighter now.

Pikachu, sitting contentedly at his feet, let out a quiet "Pika," glancing up at Ash as if sensing the shift in his mood. Ash reached down to give Pikachu a reassuring pat on the head, his mind already turning towards the flight ahead. Though the unease about the banquet still lingered at the back of his thoughts, Serena's gentle squeeze on his hand brought him back to the moment.

For now, he'd let it go.

The Levincia streets undulated with energy as Arven wove his way through the throngs of people, Mabosstiff by his side, their pace brisk but unhurried. His mind buzzed with the mission ahead, the trip to the next Team Star camp lingering at the forefront of his thoughts. He had broken off from Nemona and the rest of the crew to grab a few last-minute supplies, but deep down, Arven knew he needed more than just items from the shops. He needed a break from the constant strain of keeping everything together—his father, the Herba Mystica—it was all becoming too much.

Mabosstiff let out a soft whine as they passed a quieter section of the market, an alley tucked between two towering apartment complexes. Arven slowed, glancing at his Pokémon. "What's up, buddy?" he muttered, but as he followed Mabosstiff's gaze into the shadowed alley, his stomach twisted.

Standing in the narrow passage were two familiar figures. Amethio, pale and ghostly, leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed over his chest. His Corviknight stood beside him, its black feathers glinting ominously in the dim light. Zirc's broad form also loomed near the alley's exit, his Skarmory's sharp, metallic wings gleaming.

Arven internally groaned. He really needed to stop manifesting chaos for himself. Mabosstiff's growl was low, barely audible, but tense, and Arven placed a hand on his Pokémon's neck, trying to keep him calm as they neared the alley's edge.

"Well, well, well," Zirc sneered, pushing off from the wall. "Looks like you've been busy."

Arven stopped just short, his hand tightening on Mabosstiff's fur. He swallowed hard but kept his voice steady. "I don't have anything for you right now," he said, his eyes darting between the two men. "I've been... struggling to locate the Herba."

Amethio's expression remained emotionless, unchanged. Pushing himself off the wall, he moved forward with a slow, deliberate gait. "Struggling, hm?" His voice was smooth, cold. "That's disappointing, Arven. You do realize, of course, that this means we'll have to delay any further...updates on your father."

Arven's frustration flared instantly. He clenched his fists, heat rising in his chest. "You haven't told me anything anyway!" he snapped, his voice louder than intended. Mabosstiff echoed his anger with a deep, menacing growl that reverberated through the narrow alley.

Amethio remained entirely unfazed by the outburst. Without a word, he reached into the pocket of his sleek pants and withdrew a small, metallic object. With a lazy flick of his wrist, he tossed it wordlessly in Arven's direction.

Caught off guard, Arven fumbled, barely managing to catch the badge before it slipped through his fingers. He stared at it, confused, the sleek design unfamiliar. "What is this?" he asked, his voice thick with suspicion.

"A key card," Amethio explained, his tone bland, as if speaking to a child. "It's for a mining site in Area Three. You will need special access to get into the development zone where there are rumors of a large…disturbance. Figured you might find it useful, considering you're always behind."

Arven gritted his teeth, his hand tightening around the card as anger simmered beneath the surface. He didn't want to give Amethio the satisfaction of seeing his frustration, but the truth was, he and the others were already heading toward Area Three. Maybe on the way back, he thought…Maybe he could risk it—but it would be dangerous, and deep down, the idea of dragging his friends into yet another perilous situation gnawed at him.

Arven bit the inside of his cheek, resisting the urge to shout. He needed to stay calm, to keep his cool, no matter how much it felt like his control was slipping through his fingers. Slowly, he nodded and tucked the card into his pocket, his jaw tight.

Zirc smiled. "Good boy," he said, amusement dancing in his tone. "We expect the next Herba Mystica by the end of the week, so chop chop, plant boy!"

Amethio stepped forward and immediately his companion hushed. The Explorer's amethyst eyes flashed. "In exchange for this, we will share a piece of correspondence from your father. Something he sent before things got complicated."

Arven froze, his breath catching in his throat. His father. A message? Letter? Recording?

He stared at Amethio, the words sinking in like a weight on his chest. It felt like everything was crashing down at once—the hope that he might finally learn something concrete about Turo, mixed with the fear that he was being strung along in some twisted game. His mind raced, his heart pounding in his ears. He wanted to shout, to tell them to stop toying with him, but the thought of his father—of the possibility that this was real—left him torn.

Mabosstiff nudged his leg, sensing his unease. Arven exhaled shakily and finally nodded, though the action felt hollow.

"Good choice," Amethio said smoothly, his cold eyes narrowing in satisfaction. Without another word, he turned on his heel. Corviknight stretched its wings and prepared for flight, waiting for its trainer. Zirc shot Arven a wicked grin before whistling for Skarmory to get ready.

Both Explorers mounted their Pokémon, and with a swift push from their wings, they vanished into the bright afternoon sky above Levincia, leaving Arven standing in the alley, clutching the key card, the weight of his decision settling heavy on his shoulders.

The flight from Levincia to Kanto had been long, and somehow Ash ended up with the middle seat between Serena and Brock. Not that he minded, of course—especially when Serena had fallen asleep on his shoulder halfway through, her head resting softly against him as the hum of the plane drowned out everything else. He smiled to himself, glancing at her peaceful expression before closing his eyes and leaning on Brock's shoulder for a nap of his own.

Brock, on the other hand, did not get to nap. Resigned to being the human pillow, he'd attempted to pass the time by chatting up the flight attendants. Yet, instead of earning their attention, he'd only succeeded in watching them gush about the Monarch and his Kalos Queen, leaving Brock to sulk.

By the end of the flight, Brock was visibly disheartened, scribbling love letters to Miriam on napkins and reciting them to Pikachu, who gave him an unenthusiastic "Pika…" while contemplating using Ash's money to buy the overpriced earphones they were selling onboard.

When the plane finally touched down and the announcement for landing blared through the speakers, Ash was wide awake, already launching into excited chatter about his Pokémon at Oak's lab. As they walked down the terminal, his enthusiasm bubbled over. "And you'll get to see Hawlucha, Noivern, and Talonflame again!"

Serena beamed, "I can't wait!"

After grabbing their bags, the trio stepped outside of Saffron City Airport and were greeted by the sight of the bustling metropolis. Skyscrapers towered over the city, their reflective surfaces gleaming in the midday sun. Cars and cable cars zoomed through the wide streets, while businessmen in sharp suits hurried along the sidewalks. Serena marveled at the vastness of the city, understanding why it was considered the largest and busiest city in the region

The business district buzzed with life. Street vendors called out to passersby, while tourists took pictures in front of famous landmarks. Among the pedestrians, Pokémon like Machamp and Alakazam carried (or levitated) heavy equipment or assisted with tasks, blending seamlessly into the daily rhythm of the city.

It was clear Ash was much more recognizable here. As they passed through the district, whispers spread like wildfire. People pointed in their direction, excited fans snapping pictures or pulling out their phones to post about spotting the Monarch. The attention grew rapidly, and soon they had to quicken their pace as a large crowd began to form, eager to meet Ash and Pikachu.

"Yeah, the Monarch has definitely returned to his kingdom," Brock snickered and Ash only grunted and tried lowering his cap, which did nothing.

From his trainer's shoulder, Pikachu embraced the attention and began waving and blowing kisses to the crowd.

They soon came to the Saffron City Station, where Brock was to catch his train to Pewter City. The Pokédoctor checked his departure board before turning to Ash and Serena with a broad grin. "I guess this is where we part ways for now," he said, adjusting his backpack. "How are you guys getting to Pallet Town?"

Ash grinned and planted his hands on his hips, looking proud of himself. "Oh yeah! I gotta make a call!"

Brock raised an eyebrow but shook his head with a laugh. "Alright, I'll see you guys soon. Have fun!" After exchanging goodbyes, Brock headed into the station, leaving Ash and Serena standing outside.

Seemingly revitalized by Brock's departure, Ash hoisted both his and Serena's bag back onto his shoulders. "Let's go!" he said eagerly, grabbing Serena's hand and pulling her along.

Serena giggled, clutching her hat with her free hand to keep it from blowing off in the breeze. She felt her cheeks warm as she noticed people glancing their way and whispering again. For some reason, being here in Kanto made her feel shy, like she was stepping into a new world despite having been here before. The sights, the sounds—it was overwhelming, and she wasn't quite in her element. She didn't remember much beyond Pallet Town when she had come to the region as a young girl and was fascinated by the place Ash first started his journey in, wanting to know everything about it.

As they dashed through the streets, Serena glanced at Ash, watching him lead the way. His wide smile, the excitement radiating off him—he looked like he belonged here. Pikachu now perched on his head, grinned just as wide. The air around them felt warm and familiar, as if Ash was returning to his roots, to the place that had shaped him into the person he was now.

In moments like this, Serena saw the boy from all those years ago, the one who had held out his hand to her in the forest. She wondered if he had always been this way—optimistic, free-spirited, charismatic—through all his early adventures. She remembered their first date when Ash had mentioned how he matured in Kalos, admitting that he used to be more hot-headed and rude to his companions. Serena still found that hard to believe. Sure, she'd seen his fiery side on occasion, but rude? That wasn't the Ash she knew.

They finally arrived at the Pokémon Center, and Ash wasted no time. He hurried over to the video phone booths, dumping their bags on the floor with a loud thud before pulling a privacy curtain around them. Serena, still laughing at his single-minded focus, followed and leaned against the booth's wall as Pikachu jumped from Ash's head and onto her shoulder.

"Ash, who are you—?" she started to ask.

But before she could finish, the screen flickered on, revealing the face of an older gentleman with familiar gray hair—Professor Oak. Serena immediately gasped, recognizing him. She quickly removed her hat, smoothing out her hair as her nerves bubbled up.

"Professor! Hi!" Ash greeted brightly, standing straighter.

Professor Oak, surrounded by the hum of his lab in the background, smiled warmly at the screen. "My, my, my! If it isn't the one and only Monarch of the World!" he said with a friendly wink. "I must say, I was surprised to get a call from Saffron City—none of my current trainers have made it that far yet. But then again, I did just send them out—"

"Yeah," Ash interrupted with a nervous sweatdrop, "I'm in Kanto for a few days. Just got in. Don't tell Mom, though. It's a surprise."

Serena, wide-eyed, let out a squeal. "What?! You didn't tell your mom we were coming?! Ash!" She looked like she might faint, while Pikachu simply put a paw over his face, as if used to this.

Professor Oak leaned over as though to peer around Ash, spotting Serena. His smile widened and grew amiable. "Oh my, is that you, Serena? Goodness, this is turning out to be an eventful day. Delia and I hardly recognized you when we saw you on TV! You've certainly grown into a fine young woman."

Serena, blushing, smiled shyly. "Y-you remember me?"

Oak chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Of course I do. Took a moment for this old noggin to place you, but your time at my summer camp came back to me soon enough. I remember you and Ash being quite close in those last few days. Remarkable that you both reconnected. I do hope to hear all about it!"

Ash groaned, clearly impatient. "Professor… I'll tell you everything, I promise, but right now I need to get to Pallet Town before my mom finds out I'm here. I'd rather her not hear from the press…Can you send over Charizard and Pidgeot, please?"

Oak blinked, snapping out of his reminiscing. "Ah, yes, yes! Good choices for speedy travel. I imagine you'll be in Pallet Town by…"

As the professor rambled on, explaining in great detail how long the journey would take with the current wind speeds and how he'd been providing for Ash's Pokémon while he'd been away, the young champion listened with a series of "Uh-huhs" and "Okays," all while tapping his foot impatiently.

Serena, on the other hand, was far more attentive, smiling and asking about Ash's Pokémon and the professor's latest research. Pikachu waved excitedly at Charizard and Pidgeot when they squished their faces against the camera, and Serena giggled as she greeted the two Pokémon. She reached out and placed a gentle hand on Ash's arm, giving it a calming squeeze as his impatience started to fray. He glanced at her, sighed, and softened under her touch.

Just as Oak was making the final preparations, he seemed to remember something. "Oh! You know, many professors from across the regions are in Kanto for a conference in Viridian City tomorrow. Excellent timing, Ash. You'll be eager to see Kukui—he's here with my cousin, Samson. Should I tell him you're around?"

At this, Ash blanched and for some reason his entire body felt shot through with nerves. He hadn't told Kukui about Serena yet, and the thought of what the Alolan professor might say made his stomach flip. What would Kukui say? What would he think?

The young champion looked wide-eyed at Serena, who returned his gaze with a puzzled expression, then back at the screen. "Kukui's in Pallet Town? With you?"

Oak nodded, finally setting the Poké Balls in the transfer machine, "Yes, yes, I just said that. Samson too, and Tracey—as always. Good to see you're paying attention, young man," the professor tsked and then initiated the transfer, "Alright—Charizard and Pidgeot are on their way! Do you require any other assistance?

Ash stood there, momentarily mute. So many thoughts swirled around in his head. He wanted to introduce Serena to everyone, but suddenly it felt like there were too many people, too many…expectations. He had hoped to take things slow, to show Serena around Pallet Town, introduce her to his Pokémon, have her spend time with him and his mom—maybe even have some quiet moments to themselves. But now with Kukui and the others in the mix, the whole thing felt overwhelming.

Feeling Serena's nudge at his side, Ash finally found his voice again. "Yeah, uh, that's it for now, Professor. Thanks! We'll stop by later to say 'hi' to everyone. I want to introduce Serena to all the Pokémon."

Oak smiled warmly. "Excellent, excellent. Looking forward to it."

As the two Poké Balls materialized in front of him, Ash scooped them up and smiled at the professor. Serena sweetly bade goodbye, waving to Oak as Pikachu also waved him off with a cheerful "Pika!"

As the call ended, Serena tilted her head, watching Ash as he carefully put away the Poké Balls, his expression unreadable. He bent down to grab their bags, but before he could lift them, Serena gently placed a hand on his arm, stopping him. Her voice was soft, laced with concern. "Ash, are you okay? You got a little pale when Oak mentioned Kukui was in town. Is everything alright between the two of you?"

Ash blinked, clearly taken aback by the question. He straightened up and scratched the back of his head, offering a lopsided grin. "Yeah, we're great. I think I told you before, but he's kinda like a dad to me, so I'm actually really excited he's here and it'll be great for you to meet him." He paused for a moment, then sighed, his shoulders sagging just slightly. "But…I guess I'm also a little nervous. Not sure why, though."

Serena's hands smoothed the fabric of her dress, the motion betraying her own anxiety. "Is it…is it because of me?" Her voice was quieter now, hesitant. "Are you nervous to introduce me to everyone?"

Ash's confusion was genuine, his brows knitting together. "No way! Why would I be nervous about that?" He stepped closer to her, his eyes earnest. "Everyone's going to love you! Especially when they see how kind, generous, strong, and—"

Before he could finish, Serena flushed and quickly placed her hand over his mouth, her heart pounding from the flood of compliments. "Thanks, Ash. That's really sweet." Her tone was a little shaky, but full of affection. She cleared her throat, then moved her hand from his mouth to his cheek, her thumb brushing lightly against his skin. "I'm just nervous too, I guess."

Ash registered her words, his smile growing wider as he nodded. "Don't be. Like I said, everyone's going to love you." But as he said the words, something clicked in the back of his mind. The nervousness wasn't about Serena, or even Kukui. No, it was something deeper. It was an insecurity he hadn't realized until now—he was worried about what everyone back home would think when they saw him with her. These were people who had known him at his worst, had seen him at his most immature, struggling through his journey. Would they wonder how someone like him ended up with a girl like Serena?

Kukui especially. He hadn't been there at the beginning of Ash's journey, but after living with Ash in Alola, he probably knew him better than anyone else. They had shared so many stories, adventures, even family moments. Ash made a mental note to ask about Burnet and Lei as soon as he saw him.

His thoughts snapped back to the present when Serena's hand slipped from his cheek, her touch calling him back to reality. He smiled at her again, but this time it felt a little heavier. He tried to shake off the feeling.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Ash threw their bags over his shoulders and reached for her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. "Come on," he said, tugging her gently. "Let's go."

They found a small park just a short walk from the Pokémon Center, nestled between the city's towering buildings. It was quiet, a peaceful pocket of greenery amidst the bustling urban sprawl, with a few benches scattered around and patches of bright flowers lining the path. Ash, Serena, and Pikachu quickly made their way to a clear open area near the trees. Ash, barely able to contain his excitement, grabbed two Poké Balls from his belt.

"Alright, guys! Come on out!" he called, tossing the Poké Balls into the air.

In a flash of light, Charizard and Pidgeot materialized before them, stretching their wings wide as they took in their surroundings. Charizard let out a low, rumbling growl of approval while Pidgeot gave a soft cry, feathers ruffling in the breeze.

Pikachu immediately bounded over, chirping excitedly as he hopped between Charizard and Pidgeot, greeting them with his usual energetic enthusiasm. Charizard gave a soft snort, gently nudging Pikachu with the tip of his snout, while Pidgeot lowered her head to rub beaks with the little mouse.

Ash stepped forward, grinning. "It's been a while, huh?" he said, reaching up to pat Charizard's snout. Charizard's eyes softened, and with a huff of affection, the large Pokémon leaned in, nudging Ash's side with his head. Pidgeot, too, stepped closer, flaring her wings briefly before gently nudging Ash with one of them, her eyes shining with warmth. Ash laughed, feeling the familiar joy of being reunited with his old partners.

After all the heartfelt greetings, Ash motioned toward Serena, who stood a little off to the side, one hand clutching her opposite elbow behind her back and watching the exchange with a soft smile.

"Okay, Charizard, Pidgeot—this is Serena." Ash's face turned a light shade of pink as he scratched his cheek, his voice a little quieter as he added, "She's an old traveling partner and, uh, now she's my girlfriend."

Both Pokémon's heads snapped toward Serena, their eyes wide with shock and curiosity. There was a beat of silence before Charizard's expression changed—little hearts seemed to appear in his draconic eyes, and before anyone could react, the massive dragon stomped toward Serena with his small arms wide open.

With a loud, booming growl of excitement, Charizard swept Serena into a comical, yet enthusiastic hug, his tiny arms squeezing her tightly as his wings flapped happily behind him. Serena, caught completely off guard, let out a squeak of surprise before bursting into laughter. Meanwhile, Pidgeot, more reserved, nodded approvingly at Serena before giving Ash a playful nudge with her wing and winking, causing Ash's blush to deepen all the way to his ears.

"Hey, Charizard!" Ash jogged over, trying to gently pry his overzealous partner off of Serena. "Give her some space!" he grumbled, though he couldn't help but laugh, especially seeing Serena laughing along with the playful dragon. As he managed to ease Charizard off, he shot the Pokémon with a mock glare. "You've always had a mind of your own, huh?"

Serena's eyes were bright as she looked up at Charizard and Pidgeot. "It's nice to meet you both," she said warmly, still smiling as she adjusted her dress.

Ash's gaze shifted toward their things, and he turned to his Pokémon. "Alright, guys, we need your help getting to Pallet Town." He pointed toward Pidgeot. "Pidgeot, could you take our bags and Pikachu while Charizard takes me and Serena?"

Pidgeot gave an amused chirp and nodded but not before winking at Ash once again, exchanging a knowing look with Pikachu. The electric mouse, more than happy to avoid being squeezed between the couple, leapt onto Pidgeot's back and snapped on a pair of aviator goggles he had somehow procured.

Serena stepped closer to Ash as the Pokémon got ready, tugging gently on his sleeve. "Are you sure Charizard can carry us both?" she whispered, a hint of nervousness in her voice.

Charizard, overhearing the comment, huffed proudly and puffed out his chest, flexing his small, scrawny arms and extending his broad, powerful wings as if to prove a point. Ash chuckled, tipping his hat back to tuck a few strands of hair underneath.

"For sure," he reassured her with a grin. Then, noticing her lingering apprehension, he asked, "Have you ever flown on a Pokémon before?"

Serena shook her head, giving him a small smile. "Not really, actually. But I'm excited!" There was genuine feeling in her voice, though her fingers fiddled nervously with her dress. She hadn't exactly dressed for a flight, and she mentally sighed at Ash for not at least warning her.

Ash's smile softened as he nodded. "Don't worry, Charizard's got you."

He led Serena toward Charizard, helping her up first. Ash's hand was steady as he guided her onto the Flame Pokémon's back, but he hadn't fully considered how close they'd be once he got on too. As he settled behind her, the scent of her hair, sweet and light, filled his senses. The honey-gold strands brushed against his face, tickling his nose, and for a moment, he felt his mind go blank, dizzy from the proximity. He blinked quickly, shaking off the sensation, but his heart skipped a beat.

Serena half-turned to whisper over her shoulder, her voice wavering slightly. "You're going to hold on to me, right?" The feeling of Ash's breath on her neck sent a shiver through her, and she quickly busied herself by tucking the skirt of her dress under her legs. She removed her hat and stuffed it into her bag, trying to focus on something—anything—to calm her nerves.

"Um, yeah," Ash stammered, slipping one arm awkwardly around her waist, leaning forward to secure her. The warmth of her back against his chest made his pulse quicken, and he cleared his throat, trying to keep his cool. "Alright, let's go, guys!"

With a mighty flap of Charizard's wings, they were off. Pidgeot followed swiftly behind. The sudden rush of air pulled a surprised squeal from Serena, and she instinctively clutched onto Ash's arm. They soared higher into the sky, the Fire Pokémon's powerful strokes slicing through the wind with ease. Serena's nervousness was quickly replaced with exhilaration as the ground disappeared beneath them.

She laughed, yelping from time to time as Charizard banked into turns and dipped in the air, showing off his agility. "Remind me why I'm riding up front?!" she yelled over the wind, excited and giddy.

Ash beamed and felt a surge of joy as they flew. "Trust me!" he called back, the wind carrying his words. "It's safer! Besides, I thought you'd like the view!" He knew he definitely liked his…and he was also really happy to be holding on to her.

Serena glanced down, her breath catching as she took in the sight below. The rolling hills of Kanto stretched out like a vast painting, dotted with forests, rivers, and villages. The bright noon sun glittered across the landscape, making everything look almost magical.

"This is incredible!" Serena shouted, her face lighting up with pure awe. She turned her head slightly toward Charizard, grinning wide. "Charizard, you're amazing!" The Flame Pokémon let out a triumphant roar, pleased with her praise, and his booming voice made both Ash and Serena burst into laughter.

Ash looked over at Pidgeot and Pikachu, who flew alongside them. "How are you guys doing?" he yelled.

Pikachu, wearing his little aviator goggles, gave Ash a confident thumbs up, while Pidgeot called back happily, carrying their luggage securely in her talons.

Like this, they flew southward toward the horizon.

Nemona, Bonnie, Arven, Goh, and Aliquis gathered at the north entrance of Levincia, gazing out at the rugged, sprawling landscape of Paldea's Eastern Province. The terrain stretched before them, marked by jagged cliffs and uneven ground, where patches of sparse trees dotted the landscape. In the distance, a waterfall cascaded down from the rocky heights, sending mist into the air. The sun cast a warm, golden light over the land, though shadows stretched long across the uneven dirt path leading toward their next destination.

Goh adjusted the straps of his backpack, he and Grookey blinking toward the path ahead. "That's where we're headed, huh?"

"Yup!" Nemona nodded, she and Pawmo stretching their limbs as if about to play a Blitz game. "We'll have to walk through a large mining area, but everything else is as beautiful as the rest of this region!

Aliquis let out a long puff of air, "This is gonna be tough. Eri, Team Star's fighting Crew boss, is no joke. She's got a powerhouse of Pokémon, and if we have to battle her, we'll need to be ready for a real fight."

Penny, standing off to the side with her hands in her hoodie pockets, sighed and glanced down at her Vaporeon. "I hope it doesn't come to that. We really just need to talk to her. Even if she's not gonna be in the video on Team Star, we need to figure out how to get through to her somehow."

Bonnie skipped to a stop with Dedenne in her arms and looked at the group with a small frown. "I wish Ash and Serena were back."

"They literally just left," Arven rolled his eyes, knowing she was just being dramatic.

Nemona placed a hand on Bonnie's shoulder, offering her a reassuring smile. "I know it feels weird, but they'll be back before we know it! For now, we've got to focus on this mission." She turned toward the distant hills. "Let's get moving. We've got a long way to go."

With a collective nod, the group set off, moving at a steady pace towards the rocky hills.

Meanwhile, high above and nestled in a nearby bluff hidden from sight, Team Rocket lay in wait. Jessie peered through a pair of binoculars, her lips curving into a sly grin as she tracked the group's movements. James sat beside her, lazily munching on a snack, while Meowth, his fur bristling with irritation, held a pair of headphones, trying to pick up the conversation through their enhanced hearing device.

"Where da heck is the twerp?" Meowth muttered, pacing back and forth, his tail twitching. "If we hadn't decided to take that dumb self-care week at da beach, we'd have known where he and dat Pikachu were!" He threw an exasperated look at his companions. "This is all your fault! We missed the twerps' travel plans!"

James, reclining on a rock, stretched out with a smirk. "I regret nothing. A week at that resort was just what I needed."

Jessie flicked her hair back, eyes still glued to the binoculars. "Oh, Meowth, don't be so dramatic. You know we'd be far less productive without our new glow. It was worth every second. We look fabulous, we feel fabulous, and now we're back and ready to take on whatever comes our way."

Meowth threw his paws in the air, exasperated. "You two and your 'glow'—who cares about lookin' fabulous if we gots nothin' to steal!"

Still lounging comfortably, James looked thoughtful. "Well, that doesn't mean we can't capitalize on what's in front of us right now." He gestured to the group below lazily.

Jessie lowered the binoculars, an intrigued smile forming. "Indeed. Those twerps down there, with their haughty air and their talk of Team Star… they're clearly on some mission. This Team Star sounds like competition, and competition in our line of work is something we can't tolerate."

Meowth's ears perked up, catching on quickly. "Hmm! Maybe Team Star's gots some powerful Pokémon."

"Precisely." Jessie nodded, her eyes glinting. "We'll show these so-called 'stars' that there's only one star around here—me. Or, I mean, Team Rocket!" She giggled at her silly little mistake while Meowth and James rolled their eyes. Clearing her throat, she went on, "And if we snag a few rare Pokémon in the process, well, it's their loss, not ours."

James adjusted his gloves, a confident grin on his face. "Sounds like an excellent plan. The twerp will come back to find out we've bested Paldea's fiercest criminal organization and taken their powerful Pokémon. With our new assets, we shall be in the perfect position to finally steal that Pikachu—and the legendary dragon!"

Meowth grinned, flexing his claws. "Let's get to it, then. We ain't gots no time to lose!"

With a shared look of determination, Team Rocket packed up their equipment and slipped out of their hiding spot, ready to tail 'the preppy twerpette' and her crew of 'twerps' into the Eastern Province.

As Charizard and Pidgeot circled lower, the familiar sight of Pallet Town came into view beneath them. The quaint town was surrounded by rolling hills and patches of lush greenery, and in the distance, they could see the shimmering surface of the Southern Sea that kissed the banks of the countryside.

As they descended further, a modest two-story building, its exterior painted a soft blue-gray with a warm red roof, came into view. A white picket fence enclosed the yard, complete with a small garden growing to the side, where rows of vegetables and flowers flourished. The cottage was nestled in the heart of the town, and attached to the back of the cozy house was the only restaurant in town— The Pallet House . The extension was simple but designed to keep the cottage's warm, inviting feel. Windows lined the walls of the restaurant, giving patrons a perfect view of the peaceful surroundings. A small sign above the rear entrance indicated the restaurant's name, bordered by hanging baskets of flowers and climbing ivy.

"We're here!" Ash called out, trying to sound more confident than he felt, as Charizard landed softly in front of the house.

Serena blinked, doing a double take as her eyes took in the house. "This is it?!"

"Yeah," Ash replied, his voice almost catching, but he covered it with a smile.

Serena's heart raced as a flood of memories hit her. She had vague recollections of this place from all those years ago—passing through town once to head to the Viridian Forest, Ash had pointed it out to her when they were younger, telling her about the restaurant his mom ran. Seeing it now, the memory felt like it was coming to life, and a wave of nostalgia mixed with excitement and nerves washed over her. She gripped Ash's arm, her fingers tightening in anticipation.

Ash slid off Charizard first, turning quickly to help Serena down. His hand was steady, but there was a tightness in his chest, a quiet insecurity that he hadn't shared. As Serena slipped off the dragon's back, landing lightly beside him, he gave her a quick glance, trying to gauge how she was feeling. She seemed as nervous as he was.

Almost immediately, Pikachu scampered over, his tail wagging in excitement. He chirped happily, darting in little circles around them, clearly eager to see Delia after so much time away.

Pidgeot, ever reliable, placed their luggage by the front door and turned to Ash, her keen eyes watching him expectantly. Ash jogged up to her, wrapping his arms around her feathered neck in a warm hug.

"Thanks, Pidgeot! You can head back to Professor Oak's for now. We'll be around later!" Ash grinned, giving her a gentle pat. Then he turned to Charizard, who stood nearby, his wings still extended as if ready for more. "You too, Charizard! Thanks for the ride!"

Still feeling a rush from the flight, Serena gave Charizard a grateful pat. "Thank you, Charizard! You were wonderful!"

Both Pokémon nodded happily, looking pleased with themselves. With a few powerful flaps of their wings, they took off into the air again, Charizard showing off with a couple of flips while Pidgeot soared gracefully above, the two of them heading off toward the professor's lab on the other side of town.

Ash, now with Pikachu perched on his shoulder, let out a long breath, trying to shake off the nerves that were creeping back in. He watched his Pokémon disappear into the sky, his hand on his hip. "It sure is good to see old friends, huh?"

"Pika, pi!" Pikachu agreed, his small face bright with joy.

Serena, watching the tender exchange between the two, couldn't help but smile warmly. She reached into her bag, pulling out her sunhat and placing it back on her head before smoothing down her dress and tucking a few loose strands of hair behind her ear. Despite the excitement, nerves fluttered in her stomach, and she found herself feeling a little self-conscious.

"Hey guys?" she asked softly, her voice betraying a touch of anxiety. "How do I look?"

Ash and Pikachu turned to face her. Pikachu chirped with an enthusiastic nod, but Ash hesitated for just a beat longer.

"You look amazing!" he practically shouted and Serena had to laugh.

Ash's gaze then flicked toward the door. His fingers twitched at his side, the urge to take Serena's hand came, but something stopped him. He felt her beside him, the closeness, but also the heavy weight of expectation. Maybe it was because they were standing right here, on the doorstep of his childhood, or maybe it was because he still wasn't quite sure how his mom—or other people, really—would react. His fingers hovered for just a second, brushing the fabric of her dress, before he stuffed his hand back into his pocket.

"Come on," he said quickly, making up an excuse to himself about being in a rush. "We don't want to keep Mom waiting."

Without another word, he stepped toward the front door, his heart pounding in his chest, and knocked.

Delia Ketchum wiped a thin sheen of flour from her hands as she heard the soft knock at the front of her home. She had just finished prepping for the lunch rush, the scent of freshly baked bread lingering in the air. Taking a deep breath, she smiled to herself, content in the quiet rhythm of the day. These in-between hours, when the restaurant was closed after breakfast but before the lunch crowd arrived, were her favorite—times when everything felt predictable and calm. Life had its own natural rhythm here in Pallet Town, and Delia liked being carried along with it.

She glanced over at Mimey, who was focused on chopping carrots and onions with precise, swift movements. His focus never wavered, and she chuckled softly, tugging off her apron. "I wonder if that's Mr. Kato with the potatoes. He's very late," she mused aloud, folding the apron neatly and setting it on the counter. "But I suppose that's just like him."

Mimey gave a little shrug, not breaking stride in his chopping, and Delia turned toward the front of the house.

The day outside was bright, with the cool, dry breezes of autumn sweeping through Pallet Town. Fall here was always gentle, the air tinged with salt from the nearby sea. It was a season she loved most—everything slowed down, became softer. The vibrant colors of summer faded into warm oranges and reds, and the sea breeze made even the busiest days feel lighter. Days like today, where everything had a comforting predictability, filled Delia with a sense of peace. There was no rush, no unexpected chaos, just the steady current of routine guiding her from one moment to the next.

And maybe that's what Delia treasured most—the routine. For so long, her life had been filled with surprises, with the unpredictability of raising a son like Ash. He had always been a whirlwind of energy and excitement, constantly chasing after the next adventure, and while she adored him and the life he had chosen, there was something deeply comforting about the quiet predictability of her days at home. Everything was in its place—the kitchen humming with activity, the restaurant waiting for the next wave of customers, the breeze carrying the scent of the sea through her open windows.

The knock came again, a little louder this time.

"Coming!" she called out with a sweet smile, wiping her hands on her skirt as she made her way through the hallway.

As she reached the front door, she opened it, fully expecting to see Mr. Kato with his late delivery. Instead, her breath caught in her throat.

There he was. Her son.

Delia's heart swelled as she stood frozen in the doorway, taking in the sight of Ash standing before her. He was still the same boy she had sent off so many times—wildly energetic, filled with dreams that stretched beyond the horizon—but over the last couple years, Delia had begun to realize that Ash had been coming back home taller. Stronger. The messy-haired boy who had once darted out her front door, Poké Ball in hand, now stood before her as a young man. So much like his father.

The resemblance always hit her like a wave, and for just a fleeting moment, Delia's mind was thrown back years and years to when she was a girl, standing before the man she'd loved. He'd also been full of that same unshakable strength Ash now carried. But it wasn't him. It was Ash, her boy, looking at her with that same nervous smile he'd had when he was ten, only now there was a quiet maturity in his eyes.

And then Delia's gaze shifted to the girl beside him—her cheeks flushed a pretty pink, just like her dress. The sunlight behind her cast a warm glow around her honey-blonde hair, making her look every bit as radiant as Delia had imagined. She had to blink several times to register it all. But she could see Ash's fingertips brushing against the girl's—as though he were searching for her hand but hadn't quite mustered the courage. He was nervous, hesitant in a way Delia hadn't seen in him in years

So this is it, she thought, her heart tightening with both pride and the bittersweet ache of seeing her son grown and in love. And in that instant, all the emotions overwhelmed her, but they quickly melted into a wide, unhindered smile that broke across her face.

She stepped forward, her voice strong and welcoming. "Well, it's about time Ash brought you home to see me, Serena. Come here."

Before Serena could even respond, Delia pulled her into a motherly hug, wrapping her arms around the girl as though she'd known her forever. Serena let out a surprised laugh, but her arms quickly wrapped around Delia in return, and they both stood there for a moment, the warmth between them immediate and genuine.

As they pulled apart, Serena's cheeks were still flushed, and she laughed softly. "It's so nice to see you again, Mrs. Ketchum!"

Delia held her at arm's length, appraising her with fond eyes. "My, you've really grown. I remember when you and Ash barely reached here," she gestured to her knee with a chuckle, "and now, from Kalos to Paldea, you've grown so much." Her gaze softened as she spoke, taking in every bit of the young woman standing before her—so much more than just Ash's childhood friend now.

Ash, standing awkwardly to the side, finally found his voice, though it wavered slightly. "Hey, Mom! It's nice to—"

Before he could finish, Delia whirled on him. "How dare you not tell me you were coming, Ash Ketchum!" She poked a finger at his chest. "I could have made more pie! Or at least swept the porch!" She threw her hands up in exasperation, though her eyes were twinkling with amusement. "What were you thinking, showing up out of nowhere like this?"

Ash scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Mom..."

"And you," Delia added, turning her playful scolding to Pikachu, who had jumped off Ash's shoulder and was watching the exchange. "You should've known better too! You should have told Ash to at least send a message!"

Pikachu raised his little paws, as if to defend himself. "Pika pika!" he chirped, but Delia wasn't having it.

Ash groaned again. "Mom, we—"

But Delia wasn't done. With a bright smile, she looped her arm through Serena's and began to guide her inside. "Come in, dear. Are you hungry? I bet Ash hasn't fed you all day—deeply ironic seeing as he'll certainly let you know if you've neglected his stomach." She gave Serena a wink. "Good thing I just took one of my famous triple berry pies out of the oven. Oh! And how do you take your tea, dear?"

"Mrs. Ketchum, you really don't have to—" Serena started, but Delia was already in full motherly-host mode.

"None of that now. Ash," she called over her shoulder as she led Serena inside, "bring those bags in and set Serena up in the guest room. Oh, and make sure you change the sheets!"

Ash blinked, his mouth opening in protest. "I want pie too!"

Delia shot him a look. "And you'll get some as soon as you change the sheets in her room—and yours." She waved a hand as she continued leading a sweat-dropping Serena inside. "I would've done it myself, but you didn't give me any warning."

"Mom, I never give you a warning when I'm coming home!"

"This is different and you know it!" she called back with a knowing look. "Pikachu, go help him!"

Ash grumbled as he bent down to gather their bags, still muttering under his breath. He hoisted the bags over his shoulder, looking over at Pikachu, who was equally unamused by the sudden chore. "C'mon, buddy, let's get this over with."

Pikachu groaned, his ears drooping. "Pika…"

After a pleasant tour of the restaurant and house, Delia and Serena had settled into the cozy breakfast nook attached to the kitchen, sharing warm slices of pie and tea. The nook itself was a quaint corner bathed in soft sunlight, with a small round table set against the large bay window. Delia's knack for hospitality was clear in every detail—the teapot was patterned with delicate blue flowers, the plates were handmade, each with a unique design, and the room smelled faintly of cinnamon and berries from the freshly baked pie. Serena had let out her Pokémon—Sylveon, Delphox, and Pancham—who happily gathered near the edge of the table, enjoying some slices Delia had lovingly shared with them.

The two women chatted easily at first, mostly about Serena's travels and the flight to Kanto, Delia listening with a warm smile and nodding at all the right moments. Serena, though still nervous, felt more comfortable in Delia's presence with every minute. The conversation flowed naturally—until the sound of growling stomachs interrupted their talk.

Ash and Pikachu shuffled into the room, both wearing sheepish grins. The young champion's eyes lit up as he took in the sight of Serena's Pokémon and he pulled out three Poké Balls from his belt. "Hey, Mom! Meet my new team!"

With a flick of his wrist, Charcadet, Kilowattrel, and Finizen materialized, each greeting Delia in their own way. The fire sprite gave a little salute, Kilowattrel flapped her wings eagerly, and Finizen, perched on his pectoral fins, let out a cheerful cry.

"There's also Koraidon, but uh…," Ash scratched his cheek, "he's a little too big for the house."

Delia chuckled softly. "Well, I'm glad you've learned some judgment there after trying to call on Snorlax in your bedroom." She winked at Serena, who giggled. The matron then smiled and turned to the other Pokémon. "Hello, everyone! Help yourselves to some pie! You too, Ash."

Serena stood to help, her eagerness to make a good impression shining through. Together, she and Delia moved around the kitchen, slicing pieces of pie for everyone. They made sure each Pokémon had their fill, setting plates down for them on the floor in the living room, where the television hummed in the background.

When everyone was settled, Ash sat at the breakfast nook finally digging into his own slice of pie. His cheeks puffed out as he shoveled the treat in, only pausing when his mom asked, "So, how long are you both here for? Any plans while you visit? Ash, are you going to show her Oak's Laboratory?"

Ash nodded, his mouth too full to speak at first. "Mhm! We're just here for a few days, but I definitely want to stop by the lab this afternoon," he said, after swallowing.

Delia sat down across from him and gave him a knowing look, her hands resting lightly around her teacup. "Serena might want to rest a little before then. You two did just travel a long way."

Ash turned slightly to look at Serena, who carefully settled in beside him. Though she tried to look calm, he could see a trace of nervousness in her as she bit the inside of her cheek, her fingers lightly clutching her napkin. Before he could say anything, she reached up and wiped a smudge of pie from his cheek with her thumb, her touch gentle and affectionate. Ash's heart skipped, and his cheeks flushed a deeper red as Serena quickly looked away, clearing her throat.

"Um, I'm feeling okay right now," Serena said softly. "As long as we have time later to unpack and get settled?" She glanced at Ash, seeking his reassurance.

Ash's face felt hot. He hadn't even realized he was embarrassed about physical contact with Serena in front of his mom, but it hit him now, and he remembered why he hadn't taken her hand earlier. Even though he had thought about it. His fingers twitched, but instead, he nodded awkwardly, pushing his fork across his plate with a clumsy scrap of metal. "Yeah, definitely. We'll come back for dinner."

Delia eyed her son with a half-hidden smile, covering her mouth with her hand to hide just how much the sight of him being so smitten touched her. She loved seeing the way Ash looked at Serena—seeing how he reacted to her gentle touch—and it reminded her of so many things she wasn't quite ready to think about without tearing up. Instead, she took a slow sip of her tea, blowing gently over the rim before saying, "Sounds wonderful. I'm just happy to have you both here. The restaurant will be open tonight, but it shouldn't be too busy."

Serena brightened. "I'd love to help you cook tonight, Mrs. Ketchum! Maybe with any desserts? That is, if we get back in time."

Ash jumped in quickly, eager to boast, "Mom, Serena's an amazing baker! She makes these Poké Puffs that are…" He launched into an excited explanation of all the treats Serena had made, going on and on about how good they were, his enthusiasm shining through.

Delia, laughing softly, reached across the table to pat Serena's arm. "He's told me all about it. But let me serve you tonight. You're my guest, after all!"

As they finished their pie and tea, Delia glanced at the clock, clapping her hands together lightly. "Well, I should help Mimey as we get ready to open the restaurant for lunch. But I'll be eager to catch up with you both." She gave Ash a playful wink. "You know I'll want to hear the full story of how you two reconnected in Paldea."

"Moooom…"Ash grumbled, burying his warm face in his hands.

Serena just laughed and promised they would tell her everything.

The group rose from the table, and Serena immediately jumped in to help clear the plates. She and Delia worked side by side, chatting easily as they cleared away the dishes and wiped the counters. Ash lingered in the background, washing a few of the dishes while glancing toward Serena, who was gathering the Pokémon's empty plates from the living room.

As Serena stepped into the other room, Delia, now tying her apron again, leaned over the sink and gave Ash a curious glance. "Why are you so nervous, honey?"

"W-what?" The question caught Ash off guard, and his hands slipped, causing a plate to clatter loudly into the sink. He winced. "I'm not nervous! What are you talking about?"

Delia clucked her tongue knowingly, her eyes twinkling. "Ash, I'm your mother. I can read you like one of my home magazines. Quickly and very well."

Ash glanced toward the doorway, where Serena was still out of sight, and sighed. "Mom, can we not do this right now?"

Delia only sighed, smiling kindly at her son. "You have no reason to be nervous." She began to gather some silverware and chopsticks to place at the restaurant tables. "She is wonderful. And she thinks you're wonderful. I can see that just by how she looks at you."

Ash stared down at the sink, watching the warm water run over his hands. His chest felt tight, and as he glanced out the window, the familiar green landscape of Pallet Town blurred in the sunlight. He didn't know why it felt like this—why it was so hard to breathe all of a sudden.

Delia leaned over and kissed his cheek gently before stepping back toward the restaurant's dining room. "I'm here when you want to talk, Ash."

All he could muster was a quiet "Yeah," as Delia left the kitchen.

Moments later, Serena returned, balancing plates in her arms, her face lighting up when she saw Ash. But her smile faded slightly when she noticed his distant expression.

"Ash? Are you okay?" she asked, concerned.

Ash blinked, shaking his head as if coming back to reality. For a second, the sudden urge to pull her close washed over him, to hold her tightly, to kiss her and never let go. But that feeling, that closeness, seemed so far away now—like something he couldn't reach. So instead, he forced a smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes.

"I'm great," he forced a grin.

Together, they finished washing the dishes in comfortable silence, but Serena kept glancing at Ash, wondering.

After cleaning up the kitchen and saying their goodbyes to Delia, Ash and Serena stepped outside, recalling their Pokémon and preparing to head to Professor Oak's lab. The restaurant was just opening for the lunch crowd, and before they could slip away, they were greeted by neighbors and familiar faces from Ash's childhood. Old friends and regulars waved, calling out greetings to Ash, remarking on how much he had grown or how well he looked.

Ash did his best to be polite while subtly edging toward the exit. He answered questions as quickly as possible, hoping to avoid drawing too much attention to himself or Serena, but it wasn't easy escaping the friendly curiosity. He smiled and waved, doing his best to move things along.

"We'd love to chat, but we gotta go!" he called out to everyone, gently pulling Serena along with him while the honey-blonde waved sweetly to the curious glances. With a few more quick waves and hurried goodbyes, they finally made their way out of the restaurant's reach and into the quieter part of town.

As they walked through Pallet Town, Ash pointed out various houses and landmarks that held memories from his childhood. He pointed out the local bug-keeper's house, where he'd learned about Bug-types, and an old windmill where he and Gary had played when they were younger—back before they'd become rivals. Serena's eyes lit up as she began to recall bits of the town from her last visit, and with each step, the sense of nostalgia grew stronger.

"I forgot how peaceful it is here," Serena remarked with a contented sigh, her eyes half-closed against the bright sunlight warming her skin. She glanced back at Sylveon, who padded gracefully beside her, equally charmed by the serenity of the town.

Ash exchanged a look with Pikachu, who was perched comfortably on his shoulder. "Yeah, that's one of the reasons we love coming back home to rest," he said, grinning. "Right, buddy?"

"Pika! Pika-chu, chu!" Pikachu responded cheerfully, his tail swaying with happiness.

The two trainers continued their walk, soon reaching the outskirts of town where a wooden bridge crossed a small, clear river. The water below sparkled in the sunlight.

"There's Oak's lab!" Ash said suddenly, his tone bright and a little jumpy as he pointed to a large building sitting atop a hill. The laboratory was a sprawling, picturesque structure, with its signature wind turbine slowly spinning in the breeze and greenery surrounding it like a crown of nature. "C'mon!" Ash laughed, breaking into a sprint, Pikachu following close behind with excitement.

Serena watched him go, a small smile on her face, but there was something else on her mind. Ash seemed a little…off. Ever since his call with the professor, his usual confidence felt shaky, and he was acting a bit more distant than usual. Or maybe he was just tired?

As these thoughts swirled in her mind, Sylveon gently wrapped a feeler around Serena's wrist, giving her a reassuring tug. The soft touch brought Serena out of her worries, and she smiled down at her Pokémon. "Should we catch up with them?"

"Sylv!" Sylveon replied with enthusiasm.

With that, Serena picked up her pace, heading up the hill toward Ash and the lab. By the time she reached the top, Ash was already standing at the door, panting from his sprint.

Ash glanced over his shoulder to see Serena coming up the path. His eyes darted between her and the door. His nerves were bubbling again and he groaned softly, removing his hat to run a hand through his messy hair. Everything felt right—having Serena here, sharing his hometown with her again—it felt so natural, but at the same time, his emotions were all over the place. Why?

He looked out over the town from the top of the hill, taking in the idyllic view. Pallet Town was picture-perfect, the rolling hills meeting the sea in the distance, the water sparkling in the afternoon sun. It really was always so peaceful here.

Ash turned as he heard Serena's footsteps on the gravel path. Beneath her sunhat, her cheeks were flushed from the quick climb, her face glowing in the soft light. She looked up at him with those soft, curious eyes, and Ash let out a long, slow breath. It all suddenly made him feel like they were kids again—except now, he had these feelings for her that he didn't know how to handle.

Serena paused at the top of the hill, taking in the view behind her. Mistaking Ash's admiration as directed at the scenery, she smiled. "Wow, I forgot how beautiful the view was from up here."

"Yeah…" Ash mumbled, still looking at her. When Serena caught him staring, he quickly added, "I mean—I had forgotten too."

Serena tilted her head, her brow furrowing. "Ash, is something—?"

Before she could finish, Ash cut her off with a hurried gesture toward the door. "C'mon! Let's say 'hi!'" He turned and knocked loudly on the threshold.

Serena's irritation flared briefly, but she decided to let it go. She stepped up beside him, offering him a small, reassuring smile while they waited. They stood there for only a few minutes before the door creaked open.

Ash grinned broadly. "Tracey!"

Standing there was Tracey Sketchit, a bit older but still with the same warm, friendly energy. His olive green hair was slightly messier under his signature headband, but he still managed to look polished with the lab assistant coat he now wore. His eyes lit up at the sight of his old friend. Behind him, his trusty Marill peeked out from behind his leg, chirping excitedly.

Tracey laughed, extending his hand to Ash. "So Oak wasn't kidding when he said you were in Kanto. Welcome back, Ash!"

Ash clasped Tracey's hand, and the two nodded at each other in mutual approval, their handshake firm and familiar. Just as Tracey was about to say something else, his eyes shifted, catching sight of someone standing beside the young champion. He blinked once, then twice, and then a third time in disbelief.

Tracey stammered slightly, his gaze shifting between the girl and Ash as if trying to calculate a difficult math problem. "Uh, hi! I'm Tracey... I, uh..." His eyes darted back to Ash, and he noted the slight redness creeping up his old friend's cheeks. In all his time knowing Ash, Tracey had hardly ever seen him blush. After a painfully awkward pause, Tracey gave Ash a little nudge, practically pushing him to speak.

Ash cleared his throat, feeling more uncomfortable under Tracey's curious gaze. "Oh, yeah—uh, Tracey, this is Serena." He gestured toward her with a small grin, still trying to shake off his embarrassment. "She's a coordinator and performer. We've known each other since we were kids, traveled together in Kalos, and now..." Ash stood a little taller, regaining some confidence, though his voice wobbled slightly. "Well, now we're together."

Serena, seeing Ash stumble through the introduction, stepped forward with a radiant smile, extending her hand toward Tracey. "It's really nice to meet you."

Tracey blinked, taking her hand a little more delicately than usual, as if still trying to process the situation. "It's, uh, really nice to meet you too," he whispered, bowing slightly in polite greeting. He straightened up, then turned abruptly to Ash. "Um, one moment."

Before anyone could react, Tracey snatched Ash by the collar and dragged him into a nearby bush, causing Pikachu to leap off Ash's shoulder with a startled cry.

"You mean together, like she's your girlfriend ?" Tracey whispered fiercely once they were hidden behind the bushes.

"Yeah—ow!" Ash rubbed his neck, looking mildly irritated as he tried to straighten his vest. "What else did you think I meant?"

Tracey was utterly confused. This was Ash Ketchum —the same guy who couldn't tell when a girl had a crush on him even if she was writing a confession on his face. Tracey had literally witnessed it multiple times. The Ash he knew was oblivious to anything remotely romantic. And now he has a girlfriend? And not just any girlfriend…

Tracey peeked out from the bush, glancing at Serena, who had a sweatdrop forming behind her head as she waved demurely at them. She clasped her hands behind her back, patiently waiting for the boys to finish their sudden huddle.

Slowly sinking back into the foliage, Tracey kept his voice low and shocked. "I don't know, Ash. Knowing you, you could have meant anything. Like, you were traveling together or literally sharing a patch of grass."

"I mean together together," Ash sighed, sitting with his legs folded in the dirt, irritated with Tracey's bewildered expression. "Look, why are you so surprised?"

Tracey's eyebrows shot up, and he raised his hands in defense. "No, no, it's cool! Don't worry about me." He started to turn away, but Ash's unimpressed glare pulled him back. "Okay, okay," he admitted sheepishly. "Well, you just didn't seem to be too interested in girls in the past..."

Ash, feeling his irritation bubble over, shifted to stand up. "I'm not interested in girls. Just her."

Before Tracey could react, Serena's voice cut through the air. "Um, is everything okay?"

The two boys quickly scrambled to their feet, leaves and twigs stuck in their hair and clothes. Tracey swiped at his lab coat, trying to smooth it out and brush away the debris, and then smiled widely at Serena with renewed enthusiasm. "Everything's great! It really is nice to meet you, Serena. Welcome to Oak's lab!"

The honey-blonde giggled at Tracey's sudden cheerfulness. "Thank you!"

Ash, still brushing dirt off his shoulder, muttered, "She's been here before. We came to a summer camp together."

Trying to remain polite but shooting Ash a quick, stern glance, Serena added, "But it's been a long time."

Tracey, eager to change the subject, clapped his hands together. "Well, let me show you around! Oak's out back in the corral—with Kukui and Samson, actually. There's a big conference going on tomorrow." He waved them in, his train of thought scattering as he looked back at Ash. "I bet you brought some awesome Pokémon with you! You gotta let me draw them!"

He pulled out his sketchpad and pencil with a cheeky grin, twirling the writing utensil expertly between his fingers.

"You draw?" Serena's eyes lit up with genuine curiosity.

Tracey nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, it's how I study Pokémon behavior. Been doing it since I was a kid."

Tracey wasn't usually one to show off his sketches at a whim, but soon enough he began, flipping through his sketchpad to show Serena some of his work. The performer's face was lit up as she admired the drawings.

"These are beautiful, Tracey! You're so talented," Serena said warmly, gingerly tracing some of the lines on the page with her finger.

Tracey's cheeks turned a faint shade of pink, and he straightened up a bit, clearly proud of the compliment. "Thank you! And you're a performer, right? What's that like? I've never seen a Showcase myself, but I've heard they're getting pretty popular."

Serena's face brightened further, and she eagerly described her experiences in Showcases as Tracey—and Marrill—guided them through the lab, pointing out what had changed since Ash had last visited. The artist and performer fell into an easy, friendly conversation, Serena's enthusiasm meeting Tracey's curiosity with every step.

Ash trailed a couple of steps behind them with his hands in his pockets, grinning. Again, he couldn't help but love how nice Serena was to everyone. And he could tell that Tracey already liked her—of course, that didn't surprise Ash. Tracey always had a soft spot for pretty girls, but Serena was impossible not to like anyway, especially with her real interest in people.

The young champion glanced down at Pikachu, who was plodding along beside him, and let out a long breath. As pumped as he was to see Kukui and the others, Ash couldn't shake the weird pit lodged in his stomach. It was something about being home, about introducing Serena to everyone who had known him since he was a kid—it jumbled his insides and made him feel a little…Exposed?

Tracey led them out the back of the lab, pushing open the large glass doors that opened to the corral. Beyond stretched the expansive corral grounds, a rolling carpet of green fields and hills, bordered by a sparkling river winding its way through the property. Shadowing the fields, the lab's windmill spun lazily, its blades catching the afternoon breeze. The whole area felt alive with the peaceful hum of nature, with various Pokémon grazing and playing freely in their habitats.

Serena gasped, holding onto her hat to keep it from blowing away in the breeze. She had forgotten just how big the place was. The acreage seemed to stretch on forever, blending seamlessly with the hills and distant mountains. Tracey was busy explaining the different habitats they were able to replicate on the property, but Serena's attention drifted. Pikachu, Sylveon, and Marill had already started playing in the grass nearby, their small figures darting back and forth as they chased each other.

Smiling, Serena turned to Ash. But again she noticed something off again. He seemed distant. He was there beside her physically, but his mind was miles away. Subtly, Serena nudged his shoulder, playfully bumping him, and her fingers gently brushed the inside of his palm, inviting him to take her hand.

Ash glanced down at her and gave her a small smile, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. He looked like he wanted to take her hand—he almost did—but then hesitated, as if second-guessing himself. His fingers twitched but never moved to close the gap

Before Serena could say anything, Tracey turned back to them, hands on his hips, looking quite proud of his lengthy explanations.

"Oh!" Tracey exclaimed, squinting into the distance. He raised a hand to shield his eyes from the bright sun. "There's Oak and Samson! Professors!"

Serena followed Tracey's gaze to see two figures strolling leisurely along the river toward them. Professor Oak, with his signature white lab coat billowing lightly in the breeze, waved in their direction before tucking hands comfortably tucked into his coat pockets. Beside him was Samson Oak, dressed far more casually in a vibrant island shirt, sandals, and shorts, looking as though he'd just stepped off the sandy shores of Alola with his leathery dark tan.

"Ah, I was wondering when you two would be stopping by," Professor Oak greeted with a smile as they approached. "Welcome! And, Serena, let me introduce you to my cousin, Samson."

Samson nodded to Serena with a wide grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief. He winked at Ash before speaking, "Heard much about you, Serena. And not just from Oak, either. Ash had plenty to say about all his Kalos 'friends' on our way to Alola."

Ash chuckled, rubbing the back of his head awkwardly as all eyes turned to him.

Samson's Komala, which had been lounging lazily on his shoulder, hopped down to the grass, joining Pikachu and Marill in their playful romp. Samson continued, "I hear you're quite the successful performer! In Alola, we love any excuse to have a good time. Any chance we'll see Pokémon Showcases coming to the islands?"

Serena beamed, clasping her hands behind her back. "I'm sure it's a possibility! I'd love to visit Alola someday—I hear it's beautiful."

A new voice, playful and teasing, chimed in. "You mean Ash hasn't invited you to his championship region yet?"

Everyone turned to see a middle aged man, muscular and tanned, approaching from the lab. He wore his usual white hat and green-framed glasses, a little smirk on his lips as he approached—his lab coat, sleeves rolled up, fluttering some in the breeze; his hands casually tucked into the pockets of his baggy gray shorts. He made his way over to the group with a laid-back gait indicative of his island life. Overhead, soared his Braviary.

"Kukui!" Ash's face lit up at the sight of his old mentor, and he dashed forward to clasp hands with him. The two shared a firm handshake before Kukui pulled Ash into a friendly shoulder clap, his eyes scanning Ash from head to toe.

The young professor grinned and teasingly squeezed Ash's biceps. "Woo! Have you been lifting weights, Ash? It's only been, what, a year since you were in Alola, and you'd already grown taller, sure, but now you've got some muscle!"

Ash puffed out his chest a little. "I've been playing Blitz—it's a sport in Paldea. But yeah, I've also been lifting a bit." He flicked the hem of Kukui's lab coat, adding with a grin, "So you finally started wearing shirts, huh?"

Kukui chuckled, shrugging his shoulders. "Apparently, it's bad form to go shirtless around here." He shot Ash a mischievous look. "How's your wrestling these days?"

Ash's eyes lit up with determination. "I bet I could take you on now!"

Without warning, Kukui playfully lunged at Ash, pulling him into a headlock. The young champion, though caught off guard, slipped out of the hold with ease, spinning around to face the Alolan professor. The two of them quickly fell into a friendly wrestling match, their arms locking as they tried to overpower each other. Kukui's broad grin matched Ash's intensity as they grappled, their movements a flurry of strength and laughter.

"That's new…," Tracey muttered, flipping through his sketchbook with a faint smirk.

Serena and Sylveon both tilted their heads at the scene, sweatdrops forming as they exchanged bemused glances

"Is this...normal?" Serena asked, her voice filled with a mix of confusion and amusement.

Samson chuckled heartily, crossing his tanned arms over his chest. "Oh, it's certainly normal now. Professor Kukui's a professional wrestler, my dear. Last time Ash visited Alola, I think they had a few sessions in the ring together."

"Not enough, apparently…" Professor Oak commented with a slight chuckle as he observed Ash struggling under Kukui's stronghold. Ash was grimacing, visibly locked in a painful-looking position beneath Kukui's arm. However, as soon as Kukui's gaze shifted and he noticed Serena standing nearby, his demeanor changed instantly.

With a sheepish smile, Kukui released Ash, who promptly collapsed to the floor, gasping dramatically. But Kukui seemed to forget all about his wrestling partner, stepping forward with a broad grin and offering Serena a firm handshake.

"You must be Serena," the young professor said warmly, his grip strong but welcoming. "It's nice to finally meet you! I'm Professor Kukui."

Ash, still recovering, stood up and dusted himself off, only to receive a hearty slap on the back from Kukui. The Alolan chuckled at him. "You know, when your mother and Oak told me about your girlfriend, I could hardly believe it. Ash Ketchum, with a girl. What? But then I thought: Maybe my wedding inspired you."

Ash's eyes widened, darting to Oak, who only gave him a comical thumbs up. "Is my mom telling everyone!?" Ash groaned before looking back at Kukui with disbelief. "And how did she even get a hold of you?"

Kukui yawned and stretched his limbs to shake them out. "We went to eat at her restaurant last night. Great cook, by the way."

Serena's eyes lit up. "Ash never told me he got to see your wedding!"

"Oh, he didn't just see it." Kukui chuckled at the memory. "He and the other students practically organized the whole ceremony. Then he acted as the ring bearer."

Serena turned to Ash, her expression soft with admiration. "Ash, that's so sweet!"

Ash shifted on his feet, clearly embarrassed but also a little proud. He scratched the back of his head, his cheeks flushed. "I, uh, didn't know much about weddings until all of that."

Kukui couldn't help but grin at the exchange, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Well, Ash? Are you going to tell me how you met Serena or leave me hanging?"

Ash hesitated for a moment, still feeling somewhat awkward with all the attention, but eventually began to recount the story of how he and Serena first met at Professor Oak's summer camp. Serena chimed in occasionally, filling in details with a warmth and enthusiasm that made the story come to life. Together, they painted a picture of their early childhood connection and how their paths had crossed again in Kalos…then again in Paldea.

"Childhood friends, huh?" Kukui whistled, flicking Ash's hat teasingly, "very cute ."

Saving Ash from his embarrassment, Professor Oak soon inquired. "Pardon me, but would you like to see your Pokémon, Ash? I know they are very eager to see you."

Ash's face immediately brightened at the mention of his Pokémon. "Absolutely!" he said, raising a fist in excitement and then looking around. "Where are they, anyway?"

Oak motioned toward the eastern side of the corral. "The eastern field. Come, we can follow the river."

The group began their walk, following the river that wound its way through the corral. As they strolled, Kukui took the opportunity to get to know more about the woman who'd stolen Ash's heart. While the young champion was trying to play it cool and reserved, the Alolan professor could see right through it all. The young champion kept sneaking glances at the honey-blonde—checking in on her with almost shy, sometimes even protective looks. Each time Serena smiled or spoke, Ash's body relaxed, as though he drew some quiet comfort from her. It was all so obvious, really.

"So, Serena," Kukui started, coming up behind her and Tracey with a little whistle, "how did you get into performing and coordinating?"

Serena's face lit up as she spoke, her passion for her work clear. "It all started in Kalos, where I first got involved in Pokémon Showcases…" From there she went on, detailing her journey as a performer in Kalos and then her decision to head to Hoenn to compete in contests, eager to expand her skills and challenge herself even further. "I've always loved performing, but it wasn't until I traveled with Ash and saw how determined he was that I really found the drive to be the best at what I do. He taught me not to give up, no matter what." She shared a happy expression with Sylveon, who still trotted by her trainer's side.

Kukui chuckled, his eyes flicking toward Ash, who was walking just ahead with Oak, but obviously listening. "I'm glad to see he's rubbed off on you. He's got a lot of amazing qualities if you didn't already notice."

Serena smiled softly, her gaze following Kukui's to Ash, who was nodding along to Oak as the professor chatted animatedly about the Pokémon. "I definitely noticed," she said quietly, her eyes filled with admiration.

As if unable to help himself, Ash turned back to them, eager to redirect the praise. "Well, Serena's really taught me a lot too! And I gotta say, I don't think I would've made it as far as I did in the Kalos League without her support and belief in me and…" He trailed off, clearly embarrassed about how he suddenly jumped in.

Kukui raised an eyebrow, wearing a knowing smile though he tried to remain nonchalant for Ash's sake. "Seems like you're both pretty perfect for each other then," he stated simply, but he couldn't help the crooked smile that appeared on his lips, "But, Serena, how did Ash get the nerve to ask you out?"

Ash, red in the face, quickly intervened, "Okay, that's enough stories for now."

Thankfully, the young champion caught a break as they crested a small hill and below them, spread across the sunny meadow, were his beloved Pokémon. The sight of his old companions immediately put Ash at ease. He turned to Serena, unbridled excitement lighting up his face for the first time all afternoon. "I'm so pumped to introduce you to my friends."

Serena smiled back, relieved by his lightened mood. "I'm excited to meet them."

With a wide grin, Ash rubbed the bottom of his nose, clearly proud, before turning back to the group of Pokémon below. He whistled sharply and waved. "Hey, guys! Hey!"

At the sound of his voice, every head in the meadow turned in unison. A second later, Oak chuckled softly beside them. "Oh my, get ready…"

The entire field erupted with movement. Leading the charge from the sky, Pidgeot swooped down with a graceful arc, her powerful wings casting a shadow over the grass. Bulbasaur, with its characteristic smile, sprinted eagerly toward its trainer, while Heracross followed close behind, wings buzzing with excitement. The two were joined by Totodile, who skipped happily up to them, and Kingler, who waved his massive claw in greeting.

Not far behind, Talonflame, Hawlucha, Noivern and Charizard soared overhead—the dragon's mighty roar echoing through the meadow as he angled down toward Ash, leading all the Flying types. From the trees, Sceptile dashed forward, eager to join the gathering. But the excitement wasn't just limited to the older companions.

Infernape came tearing through the grass, his fiery mane flickering with determination, and Oshawott waddled enthusiastically, arms waving. Dragonite swooped down playfully, circling above before landing with a thunderous thud near Ash. Close on his heels was Lucario, his focus locked onto his trainer with steadfast loyalty.

Even Sirfetch'd strutted up proudly, his massive leek in hand, and Pikachu hopped up on Ash's shoulder, beaming at the sight of his old friends. The joyful reunion was complete when the rest of Ash's Pokémon, from Bayleef to Buizel, made their way over, their faces filled with happiness at seeing their trainer.

As the Pokémon crowded around the young champion, each fighting for his attention, he laughed and raised his hands, trying to calm them down. "Wait, guys, hold on! I have some new friends I'd like you to meet!"

With that, Ash called out his Paldean partners. In a burst of light, Finizen appeared first, spinning excitedly in the air before landing in the grass with a splash. Next, Charcadet materialized, his fiery helmet blazing as he looked around curiously. Kilowattrel soared into the sky with a sharp cry, landing gracefully beside Ash before glancing around at the new faces. Then, with a thunderous roar, Koraidon emerged, his large form casting a shadow over the meadow, his intimidating presence immediately catching everyone's attention.

Oak, who had been observing quietly, stepped forward, peering at the new arrivals. "My, my, Ash. These are surely peculiar specimens."

Kukui pointed at Koraidon, his eyes wide with fascination. "Uh, especially that guy…"

Ash grinned, gesturing to Koraidon. "Oh yeah. Koraidon is what they call a Paradox Pokémon."

Tracey, confused, tilted his head. "A Paradox Pokémon?"

"Yeah," Ash explained, scratching the back of his head. "A Pokémon from a different time or dimension—at least, that's what Director Clavell says they are."

Samson exchanged glances with the other professors, his brow raised in surprise. "But of course. How silly of us not to know this term…"

Pulling out his glasses from his coat pocket, Oak began inspecting Koraidon closely—but still from afar. "Tracey, can we get some sketches?"

Sketchpad ready, Tracey nodded. "On it!"

"Well," Kukui rubbed his chin, still eyeing the massive dragon, "this definitely got more interesting…"

Once Ash had finished introducing his Paldean partners to his old friends, he turned to Serena. He reached out, finally feeling brave enough to gently grab her by the wrist and pull her close to him. Blushing, he mumbled sheepishly, "And, everyone, this is Serena."

Serena, feeling a little nervous under the sudden attention, smiled softly and gave a little wave. "Hi everyone! It's so nice to meet you all!"

Ash's old Pokémon paused for a moment, their eyes darting between Ash's hand on Serena's wrist, then back to Serena herself. They glanced at Pikachu, who had just finished enthusiastically shaking Totodile's hand. The Electric-type looked at the sea of expectant eyes, suddenly unsure of what to say. His ears twitched as he sweat-dropped. "Pika?"

Bayleef, however, stepped forward, sniffing Serena suspiciously, her eyes narrowing as she scrutinized the honey-blonde. With an exaggerated snort, Bayleef gave the performer a side-eye, clearly assessing this new development.

Sensing the tension and all the questions swirling around him, Ash scratched the back of his head, grinning awkwardly and boyishly. "Serena's an old friend of mine. We traveled together a while ago, and now, well, she's my, uh, girlfriend…"

At those words, Bayleef's eyes widened before the Grass-type dramatically fainted onto the ground with a thud. The other Pokémon burst into a frenzy, crowding around Serena with newfound excitement, eager to get a better look at her. Pikachu, still overwhelmed by the chaos, found himself surrounded by the group, all of them chattering and demanding explanation.

Pikachu, looking exasperated, waved his arms, trying to calm them down. "Pika…Pikachu…" he muttered, attempting to explain everything.

But before Pikachu could say much more, Charcadet puffed out his chest, stepping forward boldly. "Char! Charcadet!" he declared, as if proclaiming he could tell the entire story himself. However, Kilowattrel swooped in with a sharp chirp, cutting him off as she began animatedly relaying the tale with much more enthusiasm, her wings flapping as she chirped away. Talonflame, Hawlucha, and Noivern were particularly invested in the tale, knowing grins slowly spread across their faces.

Serena couldn't help but giggle at the sight. She knelt down and released Delphox and Pancham from their Poké Balls, allowing them to join the fun. Delphox elegantly bowed her head in greeting, while Pancham bounded forward, eager to meet the others.

As the excitement continued, Ash guided Serena around and introduced her to his many old partners. He recounted stories of how each of them had joined his team, his voice filled with pride and affection. Serena listened intently as Ash told her about the underdogs—how many of them had been outcasts or faced impossible odds, like Infernape, who had been considered too weak by a rival trainer and practically abandoned as a Chimchar; there was a similar story with Pignite; other Pokémon like Sceptile had struggled to fit in before learning that he could trust others and find a home among friends.

Serena stood quietly as Ash spoke, listening to the stories with growing admiration. Each one made her heart swell with emotion as she learned more about his connection to his Pokémon. She could feel the depth of the bonds Ash had formed with them, seeing how fiercely they loved him in return, willing to do anything for him. They nuzzled his cheek, tickled his sides, and chatted away at him. The honey-blonde's eyes gleamed, a hand over her heart, moved by it all.

"Ah yes," with a chuckle, Oak slipped his hands into his pockets. "Ash has made quite the collection of friends, hasn't he? And to think, the boy who slept through his alarm, was behind on most of his journey, who struggled to win gym battles or even catch a Pokémon properly, was to become Monarch of the World!"

"Professor…"Ash winced at the comment, rubbing the back of his neck.

Oak blundered on, "Did you know that Ash was left to choose Pikachu as his starter only because all the other ones were gone?"

Serena's eyes widened slightly, realizing she had never heard this part of Ash's journey. "I didn't know that's how you and Pikachu met!" She honestly felt silly she had never asked. But in her mind, it seemed as though it had always been Ash and Pikachu…

"Yeah…" Ash mumbled, shifting on his feet as he tried to hide the embarrassment that surfaced. He wasn't sure why, but the idea of Serena hearing about his early mistakes made him feel a little vulnerable.

Kukui leaned down, ruffling Pikachu's head, who snickered at the attention. "And didn't the little rascal shock you all the time back then?"

Ash nodded, laughing softly. "Yeah, but that's because Pikachu didn't trust me at first. We sure became close after that first day, huh?"

Pikachu smiled and nodded emphatically.

Oak gazed out fondly at the memory, his voice taking on a more reflective tone. "Indeed. While Ash Ketchum was one of the most warm-hearted and well-intentioned but stubborn, rash, and amateur trainers I've ever had the privilege to work with—"

"Professor!" Ash interrupted, his face reddening in embarrassment.

But Oak pressed on, his expression softening. "As soon as Pikachu saw how much Ash was willing to risk for him and others, I've never seen a stronger bond form so quickly."

Pikachu beamed, scurrying up Ash's leg and onto his shoulder, nuzzling against Ash's cheek affectionately. "Pika! Pi!"

Serena's heart fluttered at the sight. Her smile was radiant as she looked at Ash. "That's wonderful," she murmured, truly touched by everything she was hearing.

Ash's cheeks remained pink, again feeling that strange unease around Serena when discussing his past. He wasn't sure why, but he didn't enjoy bringing up his earlier, less experienced self in front of her. "Well, I mean, I've grown a lot since then…right?"

"Indeed!" Oak nodded in agreement. "But you know, my grandson often called Ash… what was it again?"

Tracey, ever the innocent, supplied with a thoughtful frown as he continued sketching Koraidon: "A loser?"

"Ah, yes, that's it," Oak snapped his fingers at the revelation. "But now look who has won the world title!"

At this, Serena's expression shifted, her brow furrowing with a touch of indignation. "Sounds like Gary had his own growing up to do…"

Ash, sensing the tension in her voice and wanting to diffuse it, quickly jumped in, "No, I kinda was a loser when I first started out… but only because I didn't know what I was doing."

"Ash, don't be so hard on yourself!" Serena's frown deepened. "Everyone starts out inexperienced and naïve! But that doesn't make them a loser. Even when I was just starting out, you always believed in me."

Kukui clapped a hand on Ash's back with a laugh. "She's right, you know! I don't know many 'losers' who'd throw themselves in front of a flock of angry—what was it again?—Spearows? Just to protect their rebellious starter."

Tracey looked up from his sketch with a grin. "Or who'd throw themselves in front of two colliding attacks from Legendary Pokémon just to stop them from fighting. Misty told me about that one, about how you turned to stone."

Ash, growing even more bashful from all the praise, noticed the worried look creeping onto Serena's face as she heard more and more about the risks he had taken. Not wanting her to be worried over the past, he raised his hands in surrender, his voice a bit strained. "Alright, guys. I get it. Thanks…"

Everyone, except Serena, laughed. Though the honey-blonde managed a small smile, her eyes filled with admiration for Ash.

The next hour passed in a blur of laughter and sunshine as everyone played and spent time with Ash's Pokémon. Serena was right in the thick of it, smiling and kneeling down to pet or talk to each of his old partners. They seemed to take an immediate liking to her, especially Totodile, who bounded around her in joyful circles, and Bulbasaur, who quietly let her stroke its head.

Everyone was content—except Bayleef.

The Grass-type kept her distance, watching Serena from the edge of the group with her nose slightly in the air. Her eyes were full of suspicion, and she huffed softly, clearly unimpressed by this new girl in Ash's life.

Serena noticed Bayleef's aloofness, but instead of being offended, she winked at her, flashing a warm smile. "You know," she said softly, "I think I have just the thing for you. I'll bring it with me next time we come by!"

Bayleef narrowed her eyes, pretending not to care as she stubbornly looked away, but Serena caught the tiny flicker of curiosity hidden in her gaze. She smiled knowingly and left her to her distance, for now.

As the hour wore on and Serena interacted with his Pokémon, something stirred in Ash's chest. Watching her play with them, getting to know the friends who had been by his side for so long, he felt something warm—something deep—spread through him. The sight of Serena laughing, helping Totodile up after he'd tripped during a race, her gentle encouragement for each Pokémon…it was everything.

He loved her. He knew he wasn't good with words, and maybe he didn't always understand what it meant to be in a relationship, but Ash knew one thing: He really, really loved this girl.

And with that realization returned the trickle of anxiety. He was still figuring out what it meant to be in a relationship, and the more Serena learned about who he used to be, the more he worried. What if she started seeing him differently? She admired him now, but would that change once she heard all the stories of how inexperienced and reckless he'd been? What if his past fell short of her expectations?

Everyone seemed to be so surprised that he was with a girl like Serena…maybe he was out of his depth…

Lost in his thoughts, Ash didn't notice Kukui come up beside him, placing a firm but friendly hand on his shoulder.

"You're in your head," Kukui remarked with a light chuckle.

Ash blinked, shaking himself out of his thoughts. He let out a dry laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I guess I am."

Kukui's gaze followed Ash's line of sight, settling on Serena, who was now cheering on Snivy and Oshawott as they performed various little tricks to impress her. When Oshawott accidentally soaked the Grass-type with a Bubble, Serena quickly offered Snivy a handkerchief, a bright laugh escaping her as the Pokémon all moved to dry off their friend.

"She's really great, you know," Kukui said, nodding toward the honey-blonde.

Ash sighed, his shoulders slumping just a little. "I know. She's amazing."

Kukui gave Ash an odd look, his brow furrowing slightly. "She thinks you are too. And she's not wrong." The Alolan professor adjusted his hat and smirked.

Ash rubbed his face, feeling the weight of something bearing down on him again. "But what if I'm really not as amazing as she thinks I am? What if… I don't know…"

Kukui grinned knowingly, leaning in a little closer. "So that's what's bothering you, huh?"

"I don't know!" Ash pouted, crossing his arms over his chest defensively. "Maybe it's just been a long day."

Kukui let out a laugh and gave Ash a friendly nudge. "Ash, let me tell you something," he cleared his throat, removing his glasses and squinting as though to appear older. "Being 'amazing' doesn't mean being perfect. Heck, it's not about never making mistakes or having a perfect past. It's about trying, growing, and sticking with the people you care about through thick and thin."

Ash shifted, his expression softening but still unsure. Kukui continued, his tone steady. "You've gotta understand—being with someone, really being with them, it's about seeing the flaws and the messy parts and still thinking they're incredible. Serena knows you—or she's trying to, anyway. She sees the effort, the heart you put into everything, and that's why she thinks you're amazing. It's not about some impossible standard. It's about who you are, every day."

Ash considered Kukui's words for a moment, his gaze lightening up as he kept his eyes on Serena, who was now standing beside Dracovish, looking up at him curiously while he chatted and gestured about something. "You really think that's enough?" he asked quietly.

"More than enough.' Kukui smiled warmly and lifted his ring finger on which his commitment to Burnet was on full display. "Trust me. I'm a married man, now, as you know. So I've learned a thing or two." The professor chuckled and continued, "And Ash, gotta trust her on this. Serena wouldn't stick by you if she didn't believe in you, just like you believe in her." He leaned back, folding his arms confidently. "It's all about making each other better. That's the real magic."

Ash mulled it all over, feeling a little lighter. Maybe being back in Pallet Town, with all the memories of who he used to be, had made him overthink everything.

"So…you're not surprised that Serena's with someone like me?" Ash asked after a pause, his voice a little unsure.

Kukui looked surprised, but then held back a laugh. "Why would you even ask that? Why are you selling yourself short?"

Ash groaned, "I don't know. I guess something about being back here makes me feel like I'm still just that ten-year-old kid who can't set his alarm right."

The Alolan professor shook his head, but part of him understood—at least a little bit. "Look, don't get me wrong—I was surprised to learn you had a girlfriend. Period. You didn't seem interested in girls at all until… well…" He gestured toward the honey-blonde again. "But to answer your first questions, Ash: No. I'm not surprised she's with someone like you. You're one of a kind."

Ash let out a long breath, feeling a little more at ease. "Thanks, Professor…"

"Yeah, well," Kukui returned the smile and the two shared a moment. Soon enough, however, his expression shifted into a mischievous smirk. "We do have other things to cover later…We've never properly talked about girls, and there are some things you should know. Clearly, your body's changing, and you're probably feeling strange things when you're making out and—"

Ash's face officially couldn't get any redder. Steam came out of his ears and his eyes went white and pupiless. "S-Stop!?"

To the young champion's immense relief, Samson and Oak approached, both holding sketches of Koraidon and puzzling over their stumped Rotom Phones. The two professors exchanged curious glances as they walked up, their expressions a mix of intrigue and concern.

"Very peculiar." Oak adjusted his glasses, squinting at the sketch in his hand. "This Pokémon isn't recognized at all in our international databases."

"Cerise will certainly find that interesting." Samson chimed in, his tone light but with a subtle weight to it.

Oak nodded in agreement, his gaze shifting to Ash. "Ash, can you tell us more about these Paradox Pokémon? Perhaps it would be wise to meet with Professor Cerise before the conference tomorrow."

Serena, who had been carrying Ash's Oshawott in her arms, smiled softly as Noivern landed softly beside her, nuzzling her arm. Her curiosity piqued, she asked, "What's this conference about, Professor?"

Samson exchanged a brief look with his cousin as if deliberating how much to say. Eventually, the older Alolan professor sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice. "Well, it's mostly about the recent innovations and discoveries within the Pokémon research community… but there have been some disturbances across the regions—strange phenomena that seem to need addressing."

Oak folded his arms, adding, "Cerise knows more. He's been coordinating with many of the other professors who've been recording these seemingly connected anomalies."

Samson's tone grew slightly more serious as he turned to Ash. "But seeing this Pokémon now—one that you say may not belong to our 'time or dimension'—it doesn't bode well for the equilibrium of things."

Ash blinked, feeling the weight of the words, but before he could respond, Oak continued, his voice dropping just slightly. "As you know, Gary is in Paldea as we speak. He told me he was going to study some Crater there, but I've heard very little of him."

Samson's brow furrowed. "The Crater in Paldea is indeed supposed to be a very closely guarded secret."

Oak folded his hands behind his back and gave Ash a thoughtful look. "It's quite the lucky coincidence that you're here, Ash. We might need you to answer a few questions for us."

Ash glanced at Koraidon, who was galloping playfully in the meadow with Donphan and Quilava nearby. He nodded slowly, deciding to keep the mysterious Tera Shard to himself for now. "I might have some questions of my own. Maybe we can help each other out."

Oak smiled, his eyes gleaming with that familiar curiosity. "Were you planning on visiting Cerise Labs during your stay?"

"Yeah," Ash nodded. "I wanted to show Serena, and… I had some things I wanted to ask about."

Oak's expression softened as he exchanged another glance with Samson. "Well then, we can arrange to meet tomorrow morning."

Kukui, folding his arms over his broad chest, nodded along as well. "The conference doesn't start until the evening anyway. And trust me, Ash, you don't need to be there for all of it. Most of the conference is just a bunch of ego-boosting on who did the best experiment and research. You and Serena would both be asleep in minutes."

Oak chuckled, watching as Koraidon sprinted through the meadow, the wind ruffling his plumes as Kilowattrel soared overhead. "Well, Cerise will certainly have more questions about your intriguing dragon."

Ash smiled, feeling lighter. "Sounds good. And actually…" He turned to Serena, who had just finished helping Hawlucha untangle a few of his wing feathers. "Maybe we can see what Pokémon Cerise has at the lab. I hear they're always looking for new partners for the Pokémon they study and breed."

Tracey, who'd been listening beside Oak, perked up, his sketchbook under his arm. "Are you looking for a new Pokémon, Serena?"

"I am!" Serena nodded eagerly. "The contest season in Paldea is opening soon, and I'm hoping to expand my team. I'd love to have more variety for performances."

Tracey grinned. "Well, Cerise Labs is definitely the place to go."

Oak nodded in approval. "It's settled then. I'll contact Cerise and let him know to expect us."

Ash stretched his arms, glancing back at his Pokémon still playing in the field. "Hey, Professor, we're going to hang out here a bit longer with everyone. If that's okay?"

Oak smiled warmly. "Of course, Ash. We'll see you tomorrow." He turned to the other professors. "Gentlemen, I'm sure we can find more work to do back at the lab."

Kukui groaned, his Braviary finally landing on his head. "I thought you said this was going to feel like a vacation."

"Nothing feels like a vacation after living in Alola." Samson chuckled, giving Kukui a nudge.

Oak laughed. "Well said, cousin! You know you could write a poem about that…"

The group of professors made their way back to the lab, leaving Ash, Serena, and Tracey behind. Serena turned to the artist with a smile. "You're more than welcome to stay with us, Tracey."

Tracey blushed slightly and stammered, "Well, if you don't mind, I'd love to get a few more sketches of Koraidon and the other Paldean Pokémon. And I'm sure Marill would love to hang out some more."

Marill, bouncing happily beside Tracey, nodded eagerly before dashing off to join Pikachu, Pancham, who were playing a game of trying to hop onto the floating Glalie.

Feeling more at ease with the professors gone and Tracey occupied, Ash grinned and gently grabbed Serena's hand. "C'mon!" he said, his voice full of excitement as he led her back towards the Pokémon, the warmth of her hand in his making everything feel a little more normal again.

Serena clutched her hat tightly, laughing as Ash tugged her along down the hill. The pair skidded to a stop at the base, their Pokémon already jumping in for attention. Noivern was first, eager to greet the two trainers he essentially considered his "parents" after they raised him as a hatchling. Gible was next to jabber around, leaping up towards Serena with one intention.

"Wait—," Ash stepped in the way just in time. The Land Shark Pokémon's large jaws wrapped around his trainer's head, and the young champion sighed beneath the affectionate bite, resigned. Turning to Serena, he chuckled, "Gible bites people's head to show affection."

Serena flinched, though she managed to keep a strained smile on her face. "Charming…"

Gible, still stuck to Ash's hat, grinned.

As the rest of the Pokémon gathered round, the air was filled with a happy chaos as the group began playing games.

At one point, Ash was hoisted into the air by Dragonite, who had swooped down with a playful glint in his eye. The large dragon twirled around before letting Ash plop directly onto Snorlax's enormous belly. The ground shook lightly from the impact, and the group erupted in laughter as Snorlax blinked lazily, barely stirring from his nap. In fact, none of the Pokémon were sure when the Sleeping Pokémon had arrived.

Later on, Serena, Sylveon, and Pancham began some dance lessons. With Totodile, Corphish, Oshawott, and Scraggy all keen to show off their moves, they created a little choreographed routine in the middle of the meadow. Pancham led the charge with his signature swagger, Sylveon twirled gracefully beside him, and the rest followed with varying degrees of success. Even Charizard, standing a little off to the side, attempted a twirl of his own with a curious look on his face.

Ash, hanging back with Lucario and Charcadet, chuckled as the two Pokémon sparred. Eventually Infernape jumped in, throwing a few dramatic punches and encouraging Charcadet to mimic him. Lucario, ever the mentor, guided the young Fire sprite with gentle corrections. Ash couldn't help but smile. Pikachu soon sat contentedly on his shoulder, the two of them sharing a moment of quiet amidst the bustling activity.

But just as Ash was starting to relax, his eyes flicked over to Gengar, who wore a mischievous grin as the ghost hovered towards Serena. Ash's smile faltered.

"Gengar, wait!" Ash shouted, sprinting after the Ghost-type.

Serena turned at the sound of his voice, just in time to see Gengar creeping up on her, his visage twisting into a terrifying Scary Face. A cold shiver ran down her spine, and her face went pale. Instinctively, she stepped back, nearly collapsing in fright until Ash caught her.

"Gengar!" Ash called out, standing behind Serena, his own spine tingling from the eerie display. "Cut it out!"

Gengar snickered but paused, looking mildly sheepish at the sight of everyone's disapproving glares. Trying to make up for his prank, Gengar floated through the group, arms outstretched, giving everyone what he thought was a group hug—though he simply passed through them harmlessly.

Serena blinked, still twitching slightly from the cold sensation of Gengar passing through her. Ash, too, seemed unsettled, but he managed an embarrassed smile as he looked at her. "Gengar just likes to have fun, you know?"

"Uh-huh," Serena squeaked, clearly still shaken by the encounter. But when she turned to face Ash, the fear subsided as she felt his hands at her waist, steadying her. She had missed his touch throughout the day. Tentatively, she placed her hands on his shoulders, giving him a shy look. "Should we show everyone your new dance skills?"

Ash blushed to his ears and he glanced around at the eager faces of his Pokémon, who were all watching them—except for Bayleef, who was glaring with narrowed eyes, as if daring him to make a move.

Before he could protest, Serena began humming and gently guided Ash into a familiar and simple waltz. His movements were awkward at first, but he quickly found his rhythm. With a bit of a clumsy but heartfelt grace, Ash opened up for Serena to spin, and she twirled back into his arms, finishing with her back pressed against his chest. She let out a soft laugh and cried, "Ta-da!"

The Pokémon erupted into cheers and whistles. Sceptile passed around colorful leaves for everyone to throw like confetti. Ash stood there, flustered but smiling, proud that he had managed to keep his footing.

The fun continued as they played more games, with Tracey eventually joining in after having grabbed more sketches of the Pokémon. But as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the meadow, Ash's stomach let out a loud rumble.

Serena and Tracey both burst into laughter. "I remember that alarm," Tracey chuckled, glancing at his watch. "It's getting kind of late. I should probably head back to the lab and finish up my work before I call it a night."

Ash turned to Serena. "We should get back to my house for dinner." He then glanced over at his Pokémon, especially his Paldean partners, who didn't seem eager to move. "Do you all want to stay here tonight? I could come get you in the morning."

Koraidon immediately let out a satisfied grunt, finding the corral peaceful as he plopped down in the soft grass. Finizen, Kilowattrel, and Charcadet chirped their agreement, excited to spend more time with their new friends.

"I'll make sure they get fed," Tracey offered, chuckling.

Serena then turned to her own Pokémon. Delphox, having struck up a quiet bond with Sceptile, seemed perfectly content to stay. Pancham and Sylveon were having too much fun teaching dance moves to Ash's Pokémon to leave now.

"Alright, have fun with your little sleepover, guys!" Serena giggled, waving at her Pokémon as she and Ash began walking back towards Oak's lab alongside Tracey.

Only Pikachu followed them, never one to leave Ash's side—although, the prospect of Delia's house having ketchup was also a strong motivator.

They passed back through the lab and were once again at the front doors. Tracey and Marill waved the couple off.

Soon enough, Ash and Serena made their way back to his home, the sun painting the landscape with soft, warm colors. The young champion couldn't help but glance at the honey-blonde walking beside him, her hair catching the golden light just right. And not for the first time, Ash felt that this really just had to be a dream—that none of it was real.

Larry and Clavell stepped into Geeta's office, a room lined wall-to-wall with bookshelves, much like Clavell's own, but grander—immense, echoing, and filled with rows of volumes that seemed untouched for decades. A large, old oaken desk sat in the center, and on top were stacks of books neatly arranged, papers scattered, and a globe slightly turned to one side. The room had the scent of old wood and parchment, and dust floated in the air, catching the light streaming through tall windows.

Larry, ever unenthusiastic, grunted as his eyes scanned the towering shelves. "She reads too much," he muttered, setting his suitcase down with a thud.

Clavell chuckled, "Geeta does read a lot, it's true," he said, his voice soft with admiration. "But whatever she reads, she retains. Her memory is extraordinary."

Larry only grunted again, his expression unchanged. He began to slowly walk around the room, his fingers trailing over the leather-bound volumes lining the shelves. It would take someone a lifetime to read this much…

The school director watched him in silence, allowing the Elite Four member to explore at his own whim. As Larry's eyes passed over a series of particularly old books, he spoke up, his voice low. "Where are the books on Lucius?"

Clavell motioned toward the far end of the office, where a series of shelves stood, packed tightly with what looked like volumes of ancient tomes. "They're over there, I believe. Though I must admit, I'm not entirely certain of their exact location."

Larry nodded and approached the shelves, his eyes narrowing as he tried to decipher the fading titles on the spines. Clavell, sensing that Larry was not one for small talk, reluctantly joined him, scanning the shelves until they found what appeared to be a section on legends and myths. A few of the books were out of reach, perched high on the uppermost shelves.

The businessman gave Clavell a look, and the director sighed, resigned. "Alright," he muttered, rolling over a ladder that ran along the bookshelf. He climbed up gingerly, his hands reaching for a dusty volume that had "Legends of Paldea" in bold letters on the spine. Clavell handed it down, then retrieved another, his reluctance clear as he hesitated each time before touching Geeta's belongings. "I'm not sure we should be doing this without her permission…"

Larry, setting the books on the oaken table with a groan, simply shrugged. "She's missing. We need answers."

As they piled the books onto the table, Larry sat heavily in one of the old leather chairs, a cloud of dust puffing up from the cushions, causing his already dour expression to deepen further. "Great," he muttered, brushing the dust off his new suit. "This suit is brand new."

Clavell, meanwhile, glanced back at Geeta's desk. Something behind it caught his eye—something strange. There, behind the desk, stood a frosted glass case, the opaque panes concealing what seemed to be another set of books. The outlines of the bindings were just visible through the glass, intriguing the director. He approached the case, running a hand along the cold surface, his curiosity piqued.

He tried to open the case, pulling gently at the handle, but found it locked. "Hmph," Clavell gasped softly, surprised.

Larry, hearing him, looked up from the book he was thumbing through. "What is it?"

"It's nothing," Clavell said, prepared to brush it off. "Just… this case is locked. I didn't expect that."

Larry, his brow furrowing, looked over the rims of his glasses. "Locked, huh? Could be important, then."

Clavell considered the thought, his fingers lingering on the handle. "Perhaps," he murmured. After a moment of deliberation, he spoke again. "Maybe… maybe she keeps a key in her desk."

Larry, his tone more urgent than usual, urged him on. "Then check."

"Your manners continue to improve, I see," Clavell grumbled and, though hesitant, began opening the drawers of Geeta's desk, searching for a key. The first few drawers opened smoothly, revealing pens, papers, and neatly arranged supplies. But as he moved on, his frustration grew. "Most of these are locked too," he muttered.

Larry, now pacing slightly, let out a low growl. "Why all the security, Geeta?" He eyed the frosted glass case before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a Poké Ball. "Starly, go."

Clavell turned, his eyes wide in surprise as the tiny bird Pokémon emerged in a burst of light. "What are you—"

"Use Peck," Larry ordered the fluttering bird, pointing to the frosted glass.

Before Clavell could protest, Starly's sharp beak glowed and struck the glass repeatedly, shattering one of the panes with a sharp crack. Pieces scattered across the floor as Larry reached into the case, pulling out a few more books. "See?" Larry said, pausing to read one of the tomes. "An actual book titled, The Origins of Lucius and the Six Heroes . This is probably the good stuff."

Clavell stood frozen, his face caught between horror and curiosity. He watched as Larry, with a single nod of satisfaction, sat back down, setting the newly pilfered books onto the table. A puff of dust rose again from the old leather chair, causing Larry to grimace as he rubbed at his now dusty sleeve.

Clavell, still conflicted, turned his attention back to the now-broken case. Peering inside, his eyes caught hold of many surprising treasures: rare texts believed to contain knowledge passed down from the early civilizations of Paldea; long-forgotten books that described legends not often spoken of, focusing on the darker side of Paldean history. But what truly caught his eye were sets of scientific documents belonging to international research groups across the regions—research logs from the Aether Foundation, Silph Co. Advanced technology blueprints, Galar Energy syndicate reports…

What was Geeta doing with all of these? He would think they would be in…

"Professor Turo's office," Clavell whispered, realizing that when they first went to investigate the madman's quarters, they had already appeared to be tampered with—things missing, objects stolen. It had first been thought that Tera Industries had sent their men to confiscate these items but what it…

Shaking now, Clavell began his own pile of scientific material with urgency. Why? Why did she have these? Why did Turo have them? How are these all connected? Are they all connected?

In his frenzy, Clavell almost missed how when his fingers brushed the back of the shelf, he came across something cold and metallic. "Hmmm?"

His hand closed around a set of keys that had fallen from one of the disturbed books. The director's eyes widened, his breath caught in his lungs.

Without a word, Clavell moved to begin unlocking the drawers of Geeta's desk, his heart pounding slightly as each drawer clicked open. He rifled through papers, notebooks, and various items, but then… something strange caught his attention.

In one of the drawers, buried beneath stacks of notes, Clavell found a collection of pages—handwritten—some of them marked with the signature of none other than the famous explorer, Heath. As his eyes traced the scrawls of writing, he noticed another, more familiar script: Turo. But these were pages from Heath himself—long lost and forgotten.

Clavell's blood ran cold. His fingers, now trembling uncontrollably, shifted through the papers more with frantic haste. And then, underneath them, he found it.

A book. Old, weathered, and bound in dark leather. Its surface was marred with age, but the writing across the top was unmistakable. It was one of the two lost records of Heath's expedition. Clavell's breath hitched again, his fingers brushing the cover, but there was something else. Across the top, in clumsy handwriting, someone had scrawled the name "Turo."

But that name had been crossed out.

Underneath it, written in beautiful, flowing script, was the name "Geeta."

Clavell's heart pounded in his chest as his eyes traced the familiar image on the front of the book—a dark, serpentine figure, its lines etched into the cover in intricate detail.

In a hoarse whisper, Clavell's voice cracked as he spoke the words. "The Violet Book…"

Okay! So, I know this chapter had a lot, and it was very difficult to pace as I felt like so much was going on. The next two chapters, we'll be able to slow down a bit at least in Pallet Town, now that everyone is introduced.

Now, I hope Ash didn't come across as angsty, as that wasn't my intention at all. Our little summer child is just a little confused and learning to identify his feelings. I was also just exploring a tiny tiny bit of this phenomenon called "frozen identity" or "role entrapment." This occurs when others, particularly family or people from your past, perceive or treat you based on the person you were in childhood, rather than acknowledging your growth and who you have become as an adult. It can cause discomfort, anxiety, or fear, as you feel "stuck" in an old version of yourself in their eyes.

BUT—this can actually be an effect that is not truly happening, but rather is projected by someone revisiting their past…The psychological theory known as "self-presentation theory" suggests that we are constantly managing the impressions we give off to others. Returning to a place tied to childhood can heighten anxiety if we fear that the way we present ourselves now might not align with the expectations or perceptions people hold based on the past.

Anyway, I actually don't think that Ash's family and friends truly see him only as the same kid he once was—after all, they've witnessed his journey and growth, especially his mom, Professor Oak, and even Tracey (who probably is the most likely to freeze Ash's identity.) However, Ash might worry that the person he is today, particularly with Serena by his side, isn't fully clear to them…And so, this fear of being "frozen" in their eyes is more of an internal struggle, reflecting his own concerns about how he's evolved or how he presents himself now.

In some ways, Ash was projecting these feelings onto others without realizing it. When you return to a place filled with memories, it's easy to feel the weight of past expectations or to slip into familiar patterns of behavior. Even though no one around him was treating him like a child (except his mother to some degree), Ash felt those old dynamics lurking. And with Serena now involved, he's just more self-conscious, wondering if people will see him as the competent, mature person he wants to be for her—or if they'll see him as the same kid who left Pallet Town years ago.

Anyway, that's part of what Ash is going through. But there are more conversations between Ash and characters—particularly his mom and Serena—to come that reveal a little more and bring some resolution. Kukui's convo, if you noticed, didn't totally resolve the way Ash was feeling.

I have talked too much…Anyway, I just wanted to break that down in case people got antsy. Lol