The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows of May's royal room, painting the walls with hues of gold and amber. With a determined expression, May finished tying her chestnut hair into two ponytails, her movements fluid and purposeful. Beside her, Glaceon, her loyal Pokémon companion, nuzzled her affectionately, a silent gesture of encouragement.
"Alright, let's do this," May declared, her voice filled with quiet resolve. Glaceon's eyes sparkled with understanding as she offered a reassuring smile, her icy-blue fur shimmering in the morning light. With a traveling bag slung over her shoulder, not to mention all of the hidden pockets in her dress loaded with her ninja weapons, May glanced around the room, her gaze searching for any sign of Ash. "He must've already gone downstairs," she murmured to herself, a hint of disappointment tugging at her heart. Turning to Glaceon, May found solace in the unwavering loyalty reflected in her gaze.
"Are you ready?" Glaceon asked, her voice tinged with a mixture of determination and apprehension.
"As I'll ever be. You?" May countered.
"I'll follow you into anything," Glaceon replied with a steadfast nod. A soft smile graced May's lips as she reached out to pat Glaceon's fur affectionately. With a final glance around the room, she steeled herself for the journey ahead and headed out into the hallway, her steps echoing softly against the wooden floorboards.
Meanwhile, in the castle's foyer, Ash stood with his own traveling necessities as he awaited his wife's arrival. While Pikachu nestled comfortably on his shoulder Ash ran his fingers through Pikachu's soft fur with gentle strokes, eliciting contented coos from his longtime companion.
"Right there," Pikachu murmured, his voice filled with satisfaction. Ash chuckled softly, a hint of weariness evident in his eyes.
"At least someone is enjoying himself," he remarked, a wistful sigh escaping his lips. Pikachu cocked his head curiously, sensing the weight of Ash's emotions.
"What's wrong?" he inquired, his gaze filled with concern. Ash's expression grew somber as he contemplated the daunting task that lay ahead.
"Big task ahead," he replied, his voice tinged with apprehension. Pikachu's ears perked up, a note of reassurance laced in his voice as he spoke.
"We've dealt with all kinds of 'big tasks' before. Why is this one any different?" he asked, his eyes searching Ash's face for answers. Ash hesitated for a moment before responding, his gaze drifting to the floor.
"I wasn't married before," he admitted quietly. Pikachu blinked, processing Ash's words before offering a sympathetic nod.
"So?" he prompted, urging Ash to continue.
"I've only ever had to worry about our safety," Ash confessed, his voice laden with uncertainty.
"But you said yourself she can take care of herself," Pikachu reminded him gently.
"I know," Ash replied, his tone heavy with resignation. "But...that doesn't mean I stop worrying about what she's getting into. I'm just not fighting it," he added, a note of defeat creeping into his voice. Pikachu regarded Ash with a mixture of concern and understanding.
"Wow…That whole seizure episode yesterday must've shaken you up more than I realized…" he realized.
"Yeah…I'm not exactly in favor of this trip...but why fight the dragon, ya know?" Ash sighed with a resigned shrug.
"I hope you're talking about the literal dragons and not your wife with that reference," Pikachu remarked with a small chuckle in an attempt to lighten the mood. Ash offered a weak smile in response, his thoughts drifting to the unspoken fears that lingered in his mind. "I'm just worried about you," Pikachu admitted, its voice soft with concern. "I haven't seen you this anxious since your Mom got sick years ago... and it's been over a day since May's 'episode'..." Ash's shoulders sagged slightly at Pikachu's words, the weight of his worries pressing down on him like a heavy burden.
"Thanks," he murmured, his voice tinged with sarcasm.
"Have you considered talking to her about it?" Pikachu suggested gently. "That whole 'dealing with issues together now' thing is a two-way street, isn't it?"
"There's nothing to talk about," Ash replied dismissively, his gaze distant. Pikachu's ears drooped slightly, a gesture of concern as he regarded Ash with solemn eyes.
"You don't think she'd want to know if something was hurting you this much?" he pressed gently.
"It's not like that," Ash insisted, his voice tinged with frustration.
"Then what is it like?" Pikachu inquired, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.
"It's just different," Ash muttered, his words trailing off into silence. Pikachu sighed softly, a pang of worry tugging at his heart as he regarded Ash with sympathetic eyes.
"Just... please don't let it eat you up for the whole trip, okay?" he implored, his voice laced with concern. Ash scratched his chin thoughtfully, his mind swirling with unresolved emotions and unspoken fears. "Speaking of," Pikachu interjected, his ears perking up as the sound of footsteps echoed through the hallway. Both Ash and Pikachu turned towards the staircase, their eyes widening in surprise as May descended the grand staircase with effortless grace. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she leaped from the final step, executing a mid-air flip before landing with flawless precision.
"Wow!" Ash exclaimed, his applause ringing out in the room. May beamed at the praise, a playful grin dancing on her lips.
"Just wait until next time. I'll be aiming for my husband's arms," she teased, her voice filled with laughter. Ash chuckled softly, his heart warming at her playful banter. Without missing a beat, May strode over to where Ash stood, her movements confident and graceful. Leaning in, she pressed a tender kiss to his lips, the warmth of her affection washing over him like a soothing balm. As they pulled apart, May took Ash's hand in hers, her grip firm and reassuring. "Everyone else is at the docks?" she asked, her voice tinged with determination.
"Yeah," Ash confirmed with a small smile.
"Then let's join them and get this show on the road," May declared, her eyes shining with unwavering resolve. Ash returned her smile, a flicker of hope igniting within him as he entwined his hand with hers. Together, they stepped out into the courtyard, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them on their journey.
As the newlyweds made their way down to the Kingdom's docs, they walked in comfortable silence, still held together by their intertwined hands. After a bit, it was Ash who broke the silence.
"Thanks," Ash murmured, his gaze softening as he looked at May. May glanced back at him, her expression curious.
"For what?" she inquired, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.
"For being you," Ash replied earnestly, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. May's smile widened at his words, her heart swelling with affection.
"Aw, you," she teased playfully, her voice filled with affectionate warmth. Their tender moment was interrupted by a sudden voice from behind, causing both Ash and May to turn in surprise.
"Boo!" a familiar voice exclaimed, its tone laced with mischief. May's eyes widened in astonishment as she beheld the unexpected visitor.
"Dawn?" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"That's my name," Dawn replied with a playful grin.
"You're coming with us?" May asked, her surprise evident in her tone. Dawn nodded, her expression determined.
"I'm not waiting for the grass to grow," she declared with a hint of defiance. May's eyebrows shot up in astonishment.
"I guess I just wasn't expecting you to come," she admitted, her gaze flickering towards Ash.
"Don't look at me, I talked to Gary," Ash interjected, a sheepish smile playing on his lips. Dawn shrugged nonchalantly, her demeanor unapologetic.
"I invited myself," she confessed with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Dawn, are you sure about this? It's not exactly a honeymoon vacation," May cautioned, her voice tinged with worry.
"No need to worry," Dawn reassured her with a confident nod. May sighed softly, her worry still lingering.
"That doesn't help," she muttered under her breath.
"Rude," Dawn retorted with a playful smirk.
"I'm just worried... you don't really have any combat experience," May explained, her concern evident in her voice. Dawn's smirk softened into a reassuring smile.
"Doesn't make me useless," she insisted, her tone firm.
"Never implied anything of the sort. I just want to know for sure that you understand what you're getting into. And that you've thought about everyone in your life," the princess explained gently.
"Yeah, yeah," Dawn replied dismissively, her confidence unwavering.
"Kenny's okay with this?" May sighed, a hint of exasperation coloring her tone. Dawn's expression faltered slightly, a guilty look crossing her features.
"I didn't say anything to him," she admitted sheepishly. May sweatdropped at the revelation, realizing the potential repercussions of Dawn's impulsive decision.
"That'll go over well," she remarked dryly.
"I know," Dawn conceded with a sheepish grin.
"Well... I know better than to argue with you on coming. So let's get moving," May declared, her tone resigned. Dawn nodded in agreement, her determination unwavering. May glanced at Ash as she started walking again, her expression thoughtful. "You said Gary is coming too?"
"Yeah." Ash nodded in confirmation.
"Well, with both him and Janine along, things certainly won't be dull," May remarked with a chuckle.
"Clearly," Ash agreed, a smile playing on his lips. May smiled back at him, her heart swelling with affection. "You prepared?"
"Ready to kick some butt," she declared with a hint of mischief. Ash chuckled softly at her bravado. "If needed, of course," she added with a playful wink. Ash nodded in agreement, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. Their hands intertwined, May squeezed Ash's hand reassuringly. "I love you," she whispered softly, her voice filled with warmth.
"I love you too," Ash replied, his gaze softening as he returned her affectionate gaze. With renewed determination, May led the way towards the docks, her grip firm and unwavering as she guided Ash and now Dawn forward.
"There's our ship!" May exclaimed excitedly, her eyes alight with anticipation. Ash nodded in agreement, his heart racing with excitement as they approached the awaiting vessel. With a newfound sense of adventure coursing through her veins, May pulled Ash and raced towards the ship, their hands clasped tightly together as Dawn followed behind.
"Ack!" Ash yelped in surprise as they stumbled forward, their laughter echoing across the bustling docks. As May bounded towards the ship, her excitement palpable in the air, she released Ash's hand with a playful grin.
"Meet you guys on deck!" she called out before leaping onto the ship and starting to climb the hull with practiced ease, her nimble movements a testament to her adventurous spirit. Ash watched with a bemused expression as May ascended the ship in her unconventional manner, a small sweatdrop forming at his temple. Dawn chuckled softly at May's antics before making her way up the gangplank with a more conventional approach, her steps steady and purposeful. Ash followed suit, his footsteps echoing against the wooden planks as he ascended the gangplank with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. Upon reaching the deck, May hopped over the railing with a carefree grin, her eyes shining with excitement as she surveyed their surroundings.
"Having fun there?" Ash teased, a hint of amusement in his voice. May chuckled softly, her laughter ringing out across the deck.
"Enough fun anyway. I'll be far from any trees for a long while. I can only climb so many things out here. So I gotta get it in now," she explained with a playful wink. Ash smiled at her lightheartedness, his heart swelling with affection. Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching, and Gary emerged from the upper deck with a hearty greeting.
"Ahoy all!" Gary exclaimed, offering a casual salute before descending the stairs to join them.
"Hi, Gary!" May greeted him warmly, her smile widening at the sight of her friend. Gary returned her smile with a nod of acknowledgment.
"Glad to see you all here bright and early," he remarked with a grin.
"Hey," Ash greeted Gary with a smile of his own.
"Thanks for coming along, Gary," May said earnestly. Gary waved off her thanks with a dismissive gesture.
"No prob, May. Happy to help you and Ashy-boy out," he replied with a grin. Dawn joined the conversation with a playful quip.
"Guess that just leaves Janine," she remarked with a smirk. As if on cue, Janine's voice echoed from the crow's nest above, her presence announced with a casual wave.
"Way ahead of you," she called out, her voice carrying easily across the deck. May's face lit up at the sight of her sister.
"Hey, sis!" she called out, waving enthusiastically. Janine waved back with a small smile, her demeanor relaxed and composed. With their team assembled and ready for action, May wasted no time in rallying them for the journey ahead. "Let's do this!" she declared with determination. Gary nodded in agreement, his gaze focused on the task at hand.
"I got the wheel," he announced before making his way back to the upper deck.
"I'll get started on lunch then," Dawn offered before disappearing below deck. Ash watched the interactions with a mixture of amusement and apprehension, his mind racing with thoughts of the adventure that lay ahead.
"Uh... have you ever piloted a ship..?" he asked Gary tentatively, his voice tinged with uncertainty. Gary offered a confident grin in response.
"I've got some basic naval training," he reassured Ash, his tone filled with confidence. Ash nodded, a small sweatdrop forming at his temple as he processed Gary's words.
"Great…basic…" he muttered. May's voice broke through his thoughts, her words filled with determination.
"Just as well. I only have some basic idea of where we're going anyway," she admitted with a playful grin. Ash muttered under his breath, his nerves getting the better of him.
"We are definitely gonna die…"
"Huh?" May asked, her brow furrowing in confusion.
"Nothing," Ash replied quickly, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. Undeterred, May smiled reassuringly and took his hand in hers.
"Come on. As Princess, I declare our quarters to be the captain's quarters," she declared with mock authority before leading him below deck. Ash followed willingly, his heart buoyed by May's unwavering confidence and the promise of adventure that lay ahead.
After carefully navigating the halls of the lower decks of the ship, May and Ash finally found the captain's quarters, which were significantly bigger than the other rooms on the ship and had a bit more privacy to offer.
"Yay!" May cheered, earning an amused smile from Ash.
"You're adorable," Ash whispered, his voice filled with affection as May pulled him inside the spacious bedroom. May smiled up at him, her eyes sparkling with desire as she tossed her bag aside and leaned in to kiss him deeply. Ash gasped in surprise as May's lips met his, his hands instinctively wrapping around her waist to pull her closer. Moans of pleasure escaped their lips as they melted into each other's embrace, their kisses growing more fervent with each passing moment. May's fingers trailed through Ash's hair, sending shivers of pleasure down his spine as she whispered words of adoration.
"You have pretty eyes," May murmured, her voice soft and filled with reverence. Ash blushed at her compliment, his cheeks tinged with color as he returned her gaze.
"Says you," he replied smiled, her heart swelling with affection.
"Because it's the truth... like two amber gemstones," she continued, her fingers gently caressing his cheek. Ash's blush deepened at her words, his heart racing with emotion. "And you know I've seen my share of gemstones," May added playfully, her lips brushing against his in a tender kiss.
"You're the one with sapphires." he playfully reminded her. That compliment earned him a smile as their kisses grew more urgent, their passion igniting like wildfire as they surrendered to the desire that burned between them.
"I wonder how well they mix…" May whispered as Ash's hands roamed over her body, exploring every curve and contour with reverence and awe. May moaned softly, her body arching into his touch as she pulled him towards the bed with eager anticipation. Their bodies entwined in a passionate embrace, their kisses growing more heated with each passing moment. Moans of pleasure filled the air as they surrendered to the ecstasy of their love, their bodies moving in perfect harmony as they sought to satisfy the hunger that consumed them. Ash's touch sent waves of pleasure coursing through May's body, her moans growing louder with each tantalizing caress. Just as their passion reached its peak, they were forced to break apart for air. As they stood, still entwined in each other's arms, May smiled up at Ash with a look of pure bliss.
"Am I supposed to take this as the honeymoon I was supposed to plan?" Ash teased, his voice filled with affection. May giggled happily, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Absolutely not. But I plan on helping tide you over until we can have our real honeymoon," she replied with a playful wink. Ash blushed at her words, his cheeks tinged with color as he returned her gaze with equal fervor. "Besides, you looked like you could use some cheering up," May added softly, her voice filled with tenderness.
"Did I?" Ash asked, his gaze softening as he met her eyes.
"You sure did," May replied with a concerned smile. Even now, sometimes May's impressive intuition could still surprise him. Sometimes she really did know him better than he knew himself. "Anything you want to talk about?"
"Well... certainly feels different to go on an adventure with you instead of one to capture you," Ash admitted, his voice tinged with wonder.
"Oh?" May responded, her curiosity piqued. "Wouldn't this be better? Going to capture what you already caught would be pretty boring," Ash smiled at her words, a light chuckle escaping his mouth. "There's a laugh," she teased playfully.
"I love you," Ash whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.
"I love you more," May replied with a smile, her heart brimming with happiness.
"Not likely," Ash countered with a grin.
"Totally do," May insisted with a playful smirk before pulling him into another passionate kiss. As their bodies entwined in a dance of love and desire, a gentle rhythm of the waves rocked the ship, doing nothing but fueling the fire that burned in each of them and blazed as they enjoyed their marital activities.
Later on, once the passionate love of the newlyweds had cooled a little, they both laid panting and sweating in bed. May nestled closer to Ash, her heart filled with contentment and love.
"Still amazing," she whispered softly, her voice tinged with awe. Ash blushed at her words, his heart swelling with affection.
"May..." he murmured, his voice filled with emotion.
"Huh?" May asked, her eyes fluttering open as she gazed up at him.
"You're great," Ash replied earnestly, his eyes shining with adoration. May smiled at his words, her heart melting at the sincerity in his gaze.
"You're incredible," she whispered in return, her voice filled with reverence.
"Stop..." Ash pleaded, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
"Stop what?" May teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Being cute..." Ash mumbled, his cheeks turning an even deeper shade of red.
"Why?" May asked innocently, batting her eyelashes playfully. Ash's blush deepened at her coquettish demeanor, his heart racing with desire. "I thought you liked cute," May continued, her smile widening into a playful grin.
"Maaaaay..." Ash groaned, his embarrassment evident in his voice. May giggled at his reaction, her laughter ringing out like music in the stillness of the night. With a contented sigh, Ash relaxed into May's embrace, his worries melting away in the warmth of her presence.
"There we go..." May murmured, her voice soft and soothing as she cuddled against him. Ash chuckled softly at her antics, his heart overflowing with love. As the ship gently rocked with the motion of the waves, May hummed a soft melody, her voice like a lullaby that calmed Ash's racing thoughts. Slowly but surely, Ash drifted off to sleep, his mind filled with dreams of a future with her. "I love you..." May whispered, her voice barely audible above the gentle hum of the ship.
"Mm…" A soft smile graced Ash's lips as he slept, his dreams filled with visions of May and the life they would build together. And as the morning sun enveloped them in its embrace, May's heart overflowing with love for the man who had captured her heart.
"Mine..." she whispered softly, her words a promise of love and devotion that would endure for eternity. With that, they surrendered to the peaceful embrace of sleep, their hearts entwined in a bond that could weather any storm.
May slowly opened her eyes, adjusting to the soft afternoon light filtering through the cabin window. Ash lay beside her, sound asleep, his breathing steady and peaceful. She watched him for a moment, a tender smile spreading across her face. Carefully, she extricated herself from his gentle grasp, taking great care not to wake him. After freshening up in the bathroom and getting dressed, May made her way out onto the deck. She headed straight for the mast, the scent of saltwater filling her lungs. As she reached the mast, a familiar voice called down to her.
"Ahoy down there!" Janine's voice rang out cheerfully. May glanced up and saw her sister perched high above. She smiled and easily scaled the mast to join her.
"Hey," May greeted her, settling on the cross-section beside Janine.
"Hey." Janine returned the smile.
"Thanks for coming along on this trip," May said, her voice full of gratitude.
"Sure thing," Janine replied.
"I really appreciate it."
"You're my sister." Janine chuckled.
"Probably the only reason you'd brave your ex to be here," May teased.
"I don't hate him or anything. He's just not dating material." Janine groaned playfully.
"Fair enough." May laughed, the sound light and genuine. Janine rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. After a moment, May's expression turned more serious. "Do you mind if I ask you something?"
"Go ahead," Janine encouraged.
"What happened after I passed out yesterday...?" May's voice was tinged with concern. Janine looked thoughtful before answering.
"What's to know in particular?"
"I'm just worried about Ash...he seems...off," May explained. Janine nodded, understanding.
"Well, you hit the ground hard. Ash screamed for help and was about to do something with his powers when we moved you to the infirmary."
"Oh geez..." May winced.
"Most afraid I've ever seen him, that's for sure." her sister added.
"I was afraid of that..." May sighed deeply.
"It's so like you to give him a heart attack right after marrying him," Janine teased gently.
"Hey, it wasn't my intention. I did all I could to keep it under control for days," May defended herself.
"Did you think to try the water?" Janine raised an eyebrow. "You know the stuff Gardenia gave you?"
"Trust me, I was hoping that water would calm the headaches down. But whatever this woman is doing to the dragons, and by extension to me, is using far stronger magic," May explained.
"I see..." Janine said, pondering the situation.
"I just hope Ash'll be okay. He seems stressed, and I don't want him to get any crazy ideas if we get into a tricky spot," May continued, worry evident in her voice.
"I see..." Janine nodded.
"Can I ask you for a favor?" May asked hesitantly.
"Hm?" Janine responded, curious.
"It's just...until we solve this mess, I know I'm going to have more episodes like that. Even now, I can feel the dragons' pain...so if I black out again, I need you to keep Ash from trying to heal me," May requested earnestly.
"Huh?" Janine looked puzzled.
"You mentioned him about to use his Aura on me yesterday?" May reminded her.
"Yeah, but why would I..?" Janine started to ask.
"Because to do that, he has to literally give a piece of his own life to me. And I don't want him to do that," May explained.
"Yikes," Janine said, the seriousness of the situation dawning on her.
"I can't allow him to do that," May insisted.
"I'm following," Janine said, nodding slowly.
"Please promise me if that happens you won't let him," May pleaded.
"Okay…" Janine agreed after a moment. May hugged her tightly.
"Thank you."
"Love you so much." Janine hugged her back.
"Love you too," May replied, a soft smile gracing her lips. They shared a moment of silent understanding, before May let go of her sister and took a deep breath. "Anyway, I don't suppose you know anything about Unova from ninja lore?"
"Never heard of it." Janine shook her head.
"Worth a shot." May shrugged. Janine mirrored her shrug. "Kyurem called it his homeland..."
"I see..."
"I know the dragons weren't from Hoenn originally, but even so... Kyurem's reaction to it all was so out of character," May continued, her brow furrowed with worry.
"Not a great sign," Janine noted.
"No... it physically hurt me to see him turn away like that," May confessed. Janine frowned, her concern evident. "I just hope doing this brings back the Kyurem I love and stops all this pain for all three of them..." Janine patted her back in a comforting gesture. May sighed. "I need to blow off some steam..." She got up, stretching her limbs.
"See you..." Janine started.
"Wanna come?" May offered with a grin.
"Oh, you're offering?" Janine raised an eyebrow.
"Of course. How long has it been since we got to spar after all?" May's eyes sparkled with excitement.
"I'm suddenly less interested..." She glanced around nervously.
"Aww... well, what would you suggest?" May asked, looking around the deck for inspiration.
"Not embarrassing me in front of my ex?" Janine quipped.
"Hm..." May's eyes roved over the deck before she snapped her fingers. "Got it!" She jumped down from the support beam, executing a flawless flip to land safely on the deck below. Janine blinked in surprise. "Come on down!" May called up to her. Janine sighed but followed her sister's lead, landing beside her on the deck. May grabbed a few spare pieces of wood and some rope, quickly fashioning makeshift fishing poles. She handed one to Janine with a smile.
"What's this for?" Janine tilted her head, curious.
"Remember how Father used to take us to the ponds to train?" May asked, a nostalgic smile on her face.
"Sure," Janine replied, catching on.
"Let's fish up some sparring partners," May suggested, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
"Alright," Janine agreed, a small smile playing on her lips. Just then, Glaceon trotted onto the deck.
"What's up?"
"We're gonna do some old-fashioned pond training," May explained, baiting her hook.
"This is a bit bigger than a pond," Glaceon observed, looking around the expansive sea.
"Which'll give us a good challenge," May pointed out.
"I see," Glaceon said, her eyes narrowing with determination.
"If you're up for it, of course," May added, casting her line into the water.
"Sure," Glaceon agreed, nodding. May smiled and cast her line, the fishing pole arching gracefully. Janine followed suit, casting her line alongside her sister's. They stood side by side, the gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of the waves providing a calming backdrop as they waited for a bite. May relaxed against the railing, her body unwinding as she let the tranquility of the moment wash over her.
"This is perfect. Relaxing and training all at once," she said with a contented sigh. Glaceon laid her head in May's lap, and May gently stroked her soft fur. Glaceon purred contentedly, her eyes half-closed in bliss. May smiled down at her. "How's Pikachu?" she asked, her voice light.
"Quite shy," Glaceon replied.
"Still, huh?"
"Still," Glaceon confirmed with a sigh.
"Well, don't worry. I'm sure he'll come around," May reassured her.
"He's certainly trying," Glaceon said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
"Told ya," May said with a grin, scratching Glaceon's chin. "You're a catch, and he'll be lucky to have you." Glaceon purred louder, her eyes sparkling with happiness. Suddenly, May felt a tug on her fishing line. "Oh!" she exclaimed, gripping the pole tightly. Janine looked over, her own line still in the water. May started pulling back, her muscles tensing as the fish fought against her. "Oh no you don't!" she said determinedly, digging her heels in. With a mighty yank, she pulled a Magikarp out of the water. May giggled as the fish flopped on the deck.
"Not exactly the kind of opponent we're looking for." Janine chuckled.
"Hi, Magikarp. Don't worry, we won't attack you." May assured the creature. She quickly unhooked the fish and tossed him back into the water. The Magikarp scrambled off, splashing back into the sea. May smiled and tossed her line back out. "Well, let's try again."
"Got one!" Janine called out, excitement in her voice.
"Let's see it!" May encouraged. Ariados crawled down the mast, curious about the commotion. Janine yanked at her line, and a Feebas peeked out of the water.
"Oh! A rare one!" May exclaimed. Before Janine could reel it in, however, the Feebas let go and disappeared back into the depths. Ariados chuckled from his perch.
"Oh ha ha…" Janine pouted at her partner.
"No one ever said it'd be easy."
"Yeah, yeah," Janine muttered, rolling her eyes. May giggled, but her laughter was interrupted by another tug on her line.
"Oh!" she exclaimed again. This time, the tug was far stronger. May grunted, pulling harder. Suddenly, the line was freed, and she fell back, losing her balance. "Ah!" she cried as she hit the deck.
"Trying to catch the whole boat?" Janine blinked, smirking.
"Something big anyway…" May said, laughing as she got back up and dusted herself off.
"Heh," Janine chuckled. May recast her line once more, determination shining in her eyes. Glaceon curled up beside her, a warm, comforting presence against her leg. May smiled at Glaceon before noticing Ash coming onto the deck.
"Hi, darling!"
"Hey," Ash replied, returning her smile. May kissed his cheek, and Ash's smile widened. "Get a good nap? We're on lookout tonight."
"Good enough," Ash said with a contented sigh.
"Yay," May beamed back at him. Suddenly, May's fishing line was yanked hard, pulling her forward. "Ack!"
"May!" Ash exclaimed, quickly gripping her arm to steady her. May braced her feet against the railing, fighting with the hooked Pokémon.
"Oh no, you don't...!" She pulled against the massive catch, determined. A Huntail surfaced, squirming against the line. "Now here's one with some fight!" May said, smiling as she struggled. The Huntail sprayed a Water Gun at them. "Ice Beam, go!" May commanded.
"Take this!" Glaceon fired an Ice Beam, blocking the Water Gun, but the Huntail plunged underwater, thrashing to break free. May held on tight, but the Huntail managed to shake loose.
"Eek!" May fell back, and Ash caught her in his arms. "Darn..." she panted, straightening herself out.
"You okay?" Ash asked, concern in his eyes.
"Yeah," May chuckled. "Was just hoping for a real battle."
"Heh..." Ash smiled.
"Maybe just one more..." May said, recasting her line. Ash watched as she hummed, eyes fixed on the water. "Come on... I know someone's out there..." Ash playfully poked her sides, and May giggled.
"Here he is," Ash said. May smiled warmly and kissed him. Ash kissed back, their embrace growing more passionate as they wrapped their arms around each other. Suddenly, May felt another powerful tug on her line, yanking her forward and causing waves to crash harder against the boat.
"What the?!" May gasped.
"Whoa," Ash muttered, eyes wide. May gritted her teeth and pulled up with all her strength.
"Hi-yah-eep!" she gasped as a Gyarados surfaced, yanking her off her feet with the fishing pole caught in his mouth.
"Gyarados?!" May shouted, dangling from the pole as the massive Pokémon roared.
"What the?!" Gary gasped as the massive creature surfaced beside the boat.
"Gah!" Ash's eyes widened in shock.
"Crap!" Janine exclaimed.
"Well... ask and ye shall receive..." May muttered, clutching the pole tightly as the Gyarados pushed the boat with his body.
"Ack!" Gary struggled to keep the boat steady.
"Pikachu, use Thunderbolt!" Ash ordered. Pikachu jumped off his shoulder and fired a Thunderbolt. May quickly let go of the pole before impact, managing to land on the mast as the Gyarados roared in pain. He used Aqua Tail on the water, sending a powerful wave crashing into the boat.
"Eek!" May held onto the mast tightly.
"Let's try not to take more hits like that!" Gary called out, steering the boat away. The Gyarados quickly swam after them. Ash ran to the edge of the boat, charging an Aura Sphere, while Pikachu charged another Thunderbolt. The Gyarados fired a Hyper Beam at the ship.
"Look out!" May warned. Ash threw his Aura Sphere, and Pikachu unleashed his Thunderbolt. The attacks collided mid-air, creating a smoke cloud.
"Ice Beam, Glaceon!" May commanded. Glaceon fired an Ice Beam into the water, freezing the Gyarados in place. The giant Pokémon roared and struggled, trapped in the thick ice.
"Pikachu, buy us as much time as you can!" Ash shouted. Pikachu fired another Thunderbolt, hitting the Gyarados and causing him to roar in pain.
"Gary!" May called.
"On it!" Gary raised the sail, picking up speed.
"Janine, can you and Ariados cover our escape?" May asked.
"On it!" Janine replied. Ariados crawled onto the ship's hull and launched a thick cloud of String Shot, creating a barrier. Ash watched closely as May tossed Janine some extra smoke bombs. The Gyarados screamed in rage, but the thick web and smoke hindered his pursuit. Gary steered them out of Gyarados's range, the boat speeding away from the danger. Ash took a deep breath, relief washing over him.
"I think we're in the clear..." May took a deep breath, scanning the horizon. It was then that Dawn climbed out from below deck, her eyes wide with confusion.
"What the heck did I miss?"
"Oh... nothing much," May said with a chuckle. Dawn sweatdropped, glancing at the others. Gary rolled his eyes, a hint of a smile on his lips.
"I say no more fishing..." Ash suggested, shaking his head.
"Fair enough. Sorry, everyone," May said, a bit sheepishly.
"Heh..." Janine smiled.
"We'll live, don't worry. Keeps us on our toes," Gary added, steering the ship smoothly. Ash nodded in agreement.
"How about some dinner to relax with?" Dawn brightened up.
"Sounds perfect," May said, her smile returning.
"That, I'm down for," Ash agreed enthusiastically. With the tension easing, the group gathered in the ship's galley. The scent of cooking food filled the air as they sat down to eat, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the deck, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The ocean's gentle rocking and the sound of waves provided a soothing backdrop to their meal, creating a perfect ending to an eventful day.
Hours later, the night stretched on, the only sounds the gentle creaking of the ship and the rhythmic lapping of the waves against its hull. May sat perched in the crow's nest, her eyes scanning the darkness through binoculars.
"See anything?" Ash's voice broke the silence from down below. May shook her head, setting the binoculars down.
"Quiet and clear," she replied, leaning back against the mast. Ash closed his eyes, trying to sense their surroundings with his Aura. "Anything on your end?"
"Nothing," he reported, nodding to May.
"Glad to hear it," May said with a small smile. She then closed her eyes and focused her heart, using her bond to check on the dragons back home. She detected a rather somber mood, but the pain was nothing too severe. At least for the moment. With that, May opened her eyes again and sighed. "Just hang in there guys…"
"You okay?" Ash called up.
"Yeah...just worried…" she sighed. "I just hope all this works…" Hearing the worry in her voice, Ash climbed up to join her, a soft smile playing on his lips.
"Mind if I drop in?"
"Never minded that," May replied, smiling a little as he kissed her cheek. Snuggling into his side, May asked, "How are you holding up?"
"Fine," Ash replied, holding her close.
"Promise?" May pressed, searching his eyes for any hint of concern.
"Yeah." Ash nodded. "You?"
"Yeah... yeah," May confirmed, though worry still lingered in her expression. "I'm really glad you're here," she admitted, looking up at him.
"See?" Ash teased gently. "You didn't want me before."
"When have I ever not wanted you?" May retorted with a playful smile, her hand trailing down his spine. "Besides, if I wanted you any more than I already do... I'd probably be trying to entice you again..." Ash shuddered at the thought, and May giggled softly.
"You little sneak," Ash said, his own smile growing.
"What are you going to do about it...?" May whispered in his ear, her lips brushing against his skin. "Aura Boy..." Ash shuddered again, and May giggled, clearly enjoying her teasing.
"We're supposed to be on watch..." Ash reminded her, trying to regain his focus.
"I am watching..." May replied with a mischievous smile, her gaze wandering over his torso.
"Not me," Ash clarified, though he couldn't help but smile at her playful antics.
"It's just so hard to watch anything else..." May giggled, her playful demeanor infectious.
"Focus, Ninja Girl," Ash insisted, though the affection in his voice was evident.
"I'll need a kiss to tide me over," May countered, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Ash obliged, leaning in to kiss her softly. May happily kissed him back, her contentment evident as she sighed against his lips. "Much better..." she murmured with a smile as they pulled apart.
"Great," Ash agreed, his gaze turning back to the horizon.
"We're going the right way... I can feel it," May said with confidence, her hand finding his and giving it a reassuring squeeze.
"I trust you," Ash replied, returning the squeeze.
"Whoever is doing this to Kyurem and the others... she's going to pay..." May's voice was filled with determination, and Ash squeezed her hand in silent agreement. Together, they stood watch in the darkness, their resolve unwavering as they faced whatever challenges lay ahead.
To be Continued...