Serena stood in front of the towering statue of Leon and his Charizard, an iconic landmark of Wyndon.
The bright sunlight gleamed off the polished stone, casting a commanding shadow over the bustling festival crowds. She adjusted her sunhat, her Pikachu perched gracefully on her shoulder, its lightning bolt-shaped tail swaying slightly as it observed the lively scene.
Serena couldn't help but feel a flutter of anticipation. After all, it had been years since she'd spent this much time with Ash. Sure, they'd exchanged messages here and there, but this was different—this was real. And this time, it will be a real date, not done in a hurry like yesterday.
"Pikaaa!" her Pikachu chirped, its ears twitching. Serena turned to see Ash jogging up to her, his own Pikachu bounding alongside him.
"Hey, Serena!" Ash called out, waving enthusiastically. His trademark cap sat slightly askew, and his grin was as bright as ever. "Sorry, I got a little lost in the crowd."
She felt her heart skip a beat at the sight of him, but quickly masked it with a smile. "Good thing Wyndon has giant statues to use as landmarks."
Ash scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Yeah, guess that helps, huh? Ready to check out the festival?"
"Definitely!" Serena replied. Her Pikachu jumped down from her shoulder and landed gracefully on the cobblestone path, eyeing Ash's Pikachu with curiosity.
Ash's Pikachu, meanwhile, froze for a moment, its cheeks sparking slightly as it took in Serena's Pikachu. "Pika… Pika!" it squeaked, suddenly puffing out its chest.
"Looks like someone's making an impression already."
Serena laughed softly as Ash blinked, noticing his Pikachu's antics. "Huh? Oh, come on, buddy, focus! We've got games to win!"
Their first stop was a vibrant stall adorned with colorful banners, flickering lanterns, and balloons shaped like popular Pokémon.
Behind the counter stood a cheerful woman dressed in a Pokémon Contest outfit, her warm smile inviting them in.
The game was simple but engaging: participants tossed Poké Balls at moving targets—models of Pokémon like Wooloo and Sobble—while their Pokémon aimed to hit bells for bonus points. Each successful action earned tickets, which could later be redeemed for prizes at the festival's reward booth.
Ash crouched down next to Pikachu, his excitement bubbling over. "Alright, buddy, this is your chance to shine! Use Iron Tail to hit as many bells as you can!"
"Pika-Pika!" Pikachu's cheeks sparked as it nodded enthusiastically, its competitive spirit kicking into high gear.
Serena knelt beside her own Pikachu, her voice soft but encouraging. "Alright, sweetie, we're going for precision. Use Quick Attack, nice and steady—let's show them how it's done."
Her Pikachu chirped in agreement, its heart-shaped tail swishing with determination as it prepared to leap into action.
The game began with a burst of noise and movement. Ash's Pikachu darted forward like a lightning bolt, its Iron Tail smashing bells left and right. The sound of chimes rang out as Pikachu raced from one side of the booth to the other, sometimes narrowly missing Serena's Pikachu in its excitement.
"Pikachu, slow down! You're going too fast!" Ash called, waving his arms frantically. But his Pikachu was too caught up in its mission—and too eager to impress its companion—to listen.
Meanwhile, Serena's Pikachu maintained a graceful rhythm, zipping between targets with Quick Attack and landing each strike with pinpoint accuracy. Its movements were precise and deliberate, earning steady cheers from the growing crowd of spectators.
"Looks like my Pikachu has this under control," Serena teased, laughing softly as her Pikachu hit a perfect combo, earning a flurry of bonus tickets.
Ash frowned, though his grin betrayed his enjoyment. "Hey, it's not over yet! Pikachu, go for the big bell on the left!"
His Pikachu responded with a powerful leap, its Iron Tail smashing into the oversized bell with a resounding *clang*. The sound echoed through the stall, drawing gasps of admiration from onlookers. But in its excitement, Pikachu overshot its landing and skidded into a pile of stray Poké Balls, earning laughter from the crowd.
In the end, Serena's Pikachu edged out Ash's by a narrow margin, earning the top score and a bundle of shiny tickets, which it proudly presented to its trainer. "Great job, sweetie!" Serena said, stroking her Pikachu's head.
Ash crossed his arms, mock-pouting. "Alright, fine, you win this one," he said with a playful grin. His Pikachu, however, looked thoroughly deflated—until Serena's Pikachu stepped forward and handed it one of its own tickets.
"Pika…" Ash's Pikachu blushed furiously, its cheeks sparking slightly as it accepted the ticket. Serena had to stifle a laugh at the adorable exchange.
They moved on to the next stall, where Ash's luck began to turn. At a ring toss game, he managed to land a perfect throw after several failed attempts, earning a hefty stack of tickets. "Finally!" he exclaimed, holding them up triumphantly.
"Told you patience pays off."
Next, they tried a berry-juice tasting contest. While Ash dove in with enthusiasm, Serena's refined palate easily identified the rarer, higher-quality berries, earning her yet another round of tickets.
"You're really good at this, Serena," Ash admitted, scratching the back of his head. "Guess I'm not as good at picking berries as I am at picking battles."
Serena smiled warmly. "Seems that you have still many things to learn on your gourmet journey."
As they wandered through the festival, their growing collection of tickets began to draw attention. Whispers rippled through the crowd as more and more people recognized them.
"Isn't that Ash Ketchum, the World Champion?!"
"And that's Serena, the Kalos Queen! They're both here together?!"
Here we go again.
The whispers quickly turned into a wave of excitement as people approached them, holding out notebooks, hats, and even contest-themed souvenirs for autographs.
Ash laughed nervously as he signed another cap. "This is… a lot," he muttered under his breath, his usual boundless energy wavering under the weight of the attention.
Serena maintained her composed smile as she posed for selfies and signed photos. "I don't mind the fans, but… this is getting a little overwhelming," she admitted softly, glancing at Ash. Her Pikachu perched on her shoulder, its ears flicking nervously as the crowd pressed closer.
Ash's Pikachu, sensing its partner's unease, leapt in front of Serena's Pikachu and sparked warning bolts at anyone who got too close. "Pikachu, chill out!" Ash said, scooping his partner up before things could escalate.
"Maybe we should find somewhere quieter," Serena suggested, her voice barely audible over the clamor of the crowd.
Ash nodded, signing one last autograph before turning to Serena. "Good idea. But first…" He grinned for a quick group photo with a group of kids before grabbing Serena's hand. "Let's go!"
Serena's eyes widened at the sudden gesture, but she didn't resist as Ash led her through the bustling fairgrounds. The two of them weaved through the crowd, their Pikachu trailing close behind, the chaos of the festival fading into the background as they sought out a moment of peace.
They eventually ducked into a side alley, away from the main thoroughfare. Both were out of breath but laughing.
"Well," Serena said, brushing a strand of hair from her face, "I guess that's what happens when the world's Champion and Kalos Queen go out together."
"Yeah… Guess it won't be easy."
Their Pikachu, still full of energy, playfully chased each other in the background. Serena smiled at the sight, feeling a warm glow of contentment.
The smell of sizzling spices and fresh vegetables filled the air as Ash and Serena arrived at the food stalls, their stomachs grumbling after the morning's games and commotion. Colorful banners advertised all sorts of regional specialties, from Galarian sausage rolls to Spikemuth-style spicy ramen. A long line of stands stretched along the street, each decorated with Pokémon-themed designs.
"Wow, everything smells so good!" Serena exclaimed, scanning the options with sparkling eyes. Her Pikachu, now perched back on her shoulder, sniffed the air eagerly, its tail flicking with excitement. The knell of the noon was near as Ash's Pikachu's stomach growled.
Ash grinned as his Pikachu tugged at his arm, pointing toward a brightly lit stall with an oversized sign..
'World Grand Contest Special Curry! Try Your Luck!'
"This one looks awesome!" Ash said, his enthusiasm as boundless as ever. "They've got a mystery curry challenge. What do you think, Pikachu?"
"Pika-Pika!" Ash's Pikachu chirped, clearly on board.
Serena tilted her head, curious. "A mystery curry challenge? Sounds risky. What if it's… I don't know… too weird or something?"
"That's the fun part!" Ash replied, already stepping up to the stall. "It's like a contest—only for food! I bet I can handle whatever they throw at me."
Serena sighed, but there was a fond smile on her lips. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you."
The vendor, a cheerful man with a Carkol helping to keep the pots warm, handed Ash a tray with a covered dish. "Here you go, challenger! Hope you've got a strong stomach!"
Ash lifted the lid dramatically, revealing a steaming plate of curry. At first glance, it looked normal—golden rice, rich sauce, and a sprinkling of herbs. But the faint red hue of the sauce hinted at something more sinister.
"Alright, here goes!" Ash said, digging in with his spoon. He took a big bite, chewed confidently for a few seconds, and then froze.
"… Uh-oh," Serena muttered, watching as Ash's face turned bright red.
"HOT! HOT! HOT!" Ash yelled, waving his hands frantically as steam practically poured out of his ears. His Pikachu mimicked his reaction, sparks flying from its cheeks. "WATER! I NEED WATER!"
Serena burst into a calm panic, unable to hide her amusement. She quickly grabbed a bottle of MooMoo Milk from a nearby stand and handed it to him. "Here, drink this!"
Ash chugged the bottle, his face still flushed as he gasped for air. "What was that?!"
The vendor chuckled. "You got the Extra Spicy Tomato Berry Special. A bit of a kick, huh?"
"A bit?!" Ash wheezed, his mouth still tingling. "It felt like a Flamethrower in my mouth!"
Serena giggled, handing him a napkin. "You're so reckless sometimes, you know that? Honestly, Ash…" She reached over to wipe a spot of curry sauce from the corner of his mouth, her touch lingering for just a moment longer than necessary.
Ash blinked, his heart skipping a beat. "Uh… thanks," he said awkwardly, scratching the back of his head.
Serena's cheeks turned faintly pink, but she quickly brushed it off, laughing lightly. "Next time, maybe pick something a little less adventurous."
Ash grinned sheepishly, and their Pikachu watched the exchange with knowing glances—Ash's Pikachu nudging Serena's with its paw, as if to say,
Did you see that?
Once their meal was finished– Serena, who had opted for a rather mild and creamy curry, shared the rest with her Pikachu – the couple tried to explore more of the festival. However, it wasn't long before the familiar chaos returned.
"ASH! SERENA! OVER HERE!"
"Can I get an autograph?!"
"Take a selfie with us!"
The crowd seemed to multiply with every step they took, and even when they tried to sneak away from the main area, fans found them. Serena's patience wore thin as she signed yet another notebook, and Ash looked just as overwhelmed.
"This isn't working," Serena said softly, pulling Ash aside after they managed to escape a particularly persistent group of fans. "If we stay around the stadium, we're not going to get any peace."
Ash sighed, adjusting his cap. "Yeah, you're right. I didn't think it'd be this crazy. It's supposed to be your day, anyway."
Serena looked at him, touched by his words. "Well… maybe we just need to change the plan a little. There's so much more to Wyndon than the festival. I mean, we're in the capital of Galar! Why don't we head into the city?"
"Like where?" Ash asked, curious.
Serena's eyes lit up as she pointed to the skyline, where a towering clock tower stood tall above the other buildings. "There! The big clock tower— I've always wanted to see it up close."
Ash followed her gaze and nodded. "Alright, sounds like a plan. Let's go before anyone catches on."
With that, the two set off toward the city center, their Pikachu trailing behind them. Serena felt a small thrill of excitement—this wasn't just a change of scenery; it felt like a step closer to something more special for the Kalos performer.
The grand clock tower of Wyndon, known by many names as the Timekeeper's Spire, stood tall and proud, its golden clock face gleaming in the afternoon sun. As Ash and Serena approached, they were greeted by a sharply dressed attendant who immediately recognized them.
"Oh? It's an honor to have such distinguished guests here," the attendant said, bowing slightly. "Champion Ash Ketchum and Kalos Queen Serena. We've arranged a special VIP tour for you both. Right this way."
Ash scratched the back of his head, looking sheepish. "Wow, they really go all out here, huh?"
"Well, you are a World Champion," Serena teased lightly, following the attendant toward a private elevator. Her Pikachu, perched snugly on her shoulder, let out a happy chirp.
As the elevator ascended, the glass walls provided a breathtaking view of Wyndon. The city sprawled out beneath them, with colorful festival tents and stands scattered around the streets. The distant hum of cheering crowds from the World Grand Contest stadium added to the lively atmosphere.
"Whoa, this view's incredible!" Ash said, pressing his hands against the glass like a kid in a candy store.
Serena smiled, leaning closer to the window. "It really is. I don't think I've ever seen Wyndon like this before."
Her Pikachu nudged Ash's Pikachu playfully, and the two Pokémon exchanged mischievous grins.
When the elevator doors opened, the attendant led them to the rooftop, a sprawling open-air platform surrounded by safety railings. The view was even more stunning from up here. The clock's massive golden hands ticked behind them, and now the sky above was a perfect shade of blue.
"This is amazing," Serena said, stepping to the edge and gazing out at the horizon. Her dress fluttered in the breeze, and for a moment, Ash found himself staring.
"Yeah," he said softly, scratching his cheek as he looked away. "I mean, the view is cool and all!"
Before Serena could respond, a distant whistling sound caught their attention. She looked up, her eyes widening. "Ash, look!"
In the sky above, a spectacular airshow began to unfold. A team of colorful Corviknight and Braviary soared through the air, trailing vibrant smoke in shades of red, blue, and gold—the official colors of the World Grand Contest. They performed intricate formations, creating shapes that resembled Poké Balls, ribbons, and even the contest's iconic logo.
"Whoa! That's so cool!" Ash exclaimed, leaning forward on the railing. His Pikachu jumped up beside him, watching in awe.
Serena's gaze softened as she watched Ash's excitement. "They must've planned this to celebrate the contest," she said. "It's like the whole city is celebrating."
Suddenly, one of the Corviknight broke formation, swooping low toward the tower. Attached to its leg was a ribbon, and as it soared past them, the ribbon unraveled, revealing a message: "Dreams Take Flight."
Serena gasped. "It's so beautiful… like it's encouraging everyone competing in the contest."
The ribbon twirled, caught in an invisible current, spiraling into the cityscape below like a whisper of fate. Something about those words made her chest tighten. It felt… meant to be. Like a sign.
Beside her, Ash stood unusually quiet, his amber eyes following the ribbon's descent. "Everyone's got their own dream they're chasing," he murmured, voice softer than usual.
Serena studied him for a moment, the flickering neon lights from the city casting shadows across his face. His usual boundless energy seemed dampened, his expression distant. It wasn't like him to be so subdued.
"Yeah," she said, lacing her fingers together against the cold railing. "And sometimes… sometimes we need a little push to reach for our dreams."
She turned to him, smiling—a quiet, knowing smile. It was just like Ash to always push forward, always chase his dreams without hesitation. She knew he always encouraged her, just like he had all those years ago in the forest when they were little kids. "Hey, Ash… is there something special you've been dreaming about lately?"
His breath hitched. The words, coupled with the message in the sky, seemed to strike a nerve. His hand clenched slightly against the railing. "I…"
A pause. A flicker of hesitation. Then, a weak chuckle. "It's kind of silly."
Serena tilted her head, intrigued. "If it's from you, I doubt it's silly."
He exhaled, running a hand through his messy black hair. "It's just… I've been dreaming sometimes about my dad."
Serena blinked, momentarily taken aback. Ash never talked about his father. Not really. She knew little about him, only that he had been absent for as long as Ash could remember.
"I know it's dumb," he added quickly, rubbing the back of his neck in that sheepish way of his. "I mean, he left when I was just a kid. I barely remember his face. But lately… I keep wondering about him. What he's doing recently. If he ever thinks about me sometimes."
His gaze dropped, shoulders slightly hunched. It wasn't often that Ash showed this side of himself—the part that longed, that doubted. And yet, there it was, clear as the sky above them.
Serena's heart clenched. She reached out, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Ash, that's not dumb at all."
Her touch was light, reassuring, but her voice was firm. "It's normal to wonder. To miss him. You care so much about the people in your life, so of course, you'd still think about your dad."
He glanced at her hand, then at her eyes, searching for something—understanding, maybe. He let out a small sigh, his shoulders relaxing just slightly.
"I don't worry about him but I guess… I just wish I could see him casually. Even just once."
Serena's fingers curled slightly against his sleeve. She could understand that feeling. Maybe not entirely, but enough.
"I get it," she admitted, shifting her weight slightly. "Since my parents separated, things with my dad haven't always been easy either."
Ash's brows lifted slightly. "Do you ever… think about them getting back together?"
She exhaled softly, leaning back against the railing. "Sometimes. It would be nice if things could go back to when it was simple. When everything felt... right."
The silence that followed wasn't heavy, but thoughtful. Then, Serena looked back at him, her usual radiant smile returning. "But you know, dreams do come true sometimes."
She leaned closer, voice filled with certainty. "Maybe you'll get to see him one day. And even if you don't, you have so many people who care about you. Your mom, your friends… and me."
For a moment, Ash looked as if he wanted to say something. But then, he let out a small laugh, exhaling deeply.
"You're right," he said, stretching his arms as he gazed back up at the sky, at the fading message. "I have a lot of people who care about me, and that's what really matters."
Serena beamed, a wave of satisfaction washing over her. That was the Ash she knew. Always looking forward, always pushing on. Whatever uncertainty had crept into his mind today, she was glad she could help him push it away.
"That's the Ash Ketchum spirit I know," she said, eyes gleaming with admiration. "You've always been so determined to become the best trainer, and I have no doubt you'll achieve whatever goal you set."
He smiled at her, though there was something about it—something just a little reserved. A little hesitant. But Serena didn't notice yet. To her, this was how it was meant to be. Ash, strong and unwavering, pushing forward no matter what.
The wind carried away the last traces of the ribbon's message, scattering its golden threads into the sky.
Serena let her gaze drift back to Ash, watching as he stared at the sky, thoughts once again distant. She wasn't sure what was still weighing on his mind, but…
Better to move forward.
Their Pikachu were clearly inspired too. Ash's Pikachu offered a paw to Serena's, and the two performed a little twirl, earning laughs from their trainers.
As the airshow continued, Serena leaned on the railing, her face glowing in the golden light of the afternoon sun. "You know, Ash," she said softly, "moments like this… they remind me of why I started my journey in the first place. I wanted to see the world, experience things like this, and… well, share them with someone special."
Ash glanced at her, his expression curious. "Someone special?"
Serena hesitated, feeling a slight blush rise to her cheeks. "I mean… people who mean a lot to me."
Ash grinned, clearly not catching the subtext. "Well, you're doing a great job. I mean, you've made it this far, right? Given the number of people important to you that you were able to meet to get there!"
"Thanks, Ash," Serena said, her smile bittersweet. "But… it's not just about the titles. It's about moments like this."
Ash didn't reply immediately. Instead, he looked out at the horizon, his Pikachu hopping onto his shoulder. "Yeah… I think I get it."
For a moment, there was a comfortable silence between them, filled only by the sounds of the wind and the distant cheers of the festival below.
As the airshow ended, Serena turned to Ash, an idea forming in her mind. "You know, this was perfect, but I think we should keep the momentum going."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Ash asked, tilting his head.
"Well," Serena said, her eyes sparkling with excitement, "we've got the whole city to explore, right? Let's make the most of it. There's still so much I want to show you."
"Sounds like a plan! Lead the way, Serena."
Their Pikachu followed behind them as they headed back down the tower, their laughter echoing in the air. The bond between them felt stronger than ever, though neither of them could quite put it into words just yet.
As they descended the Timekeeper's Spire, the lively energy of Wyndon enveloped them once again.
Ash, carrying a carefree grin, stuffed his hands into his pockets, clearly still riding the high from their spectacular view atop the tower. Beside him, Serena walked with an air of satisfaction, her Pikachu perched comfortably on her shoulder, swaying her tail happily.
"That was pretty cool," Ash said, glancing at Serena. "Thanks for suggesting we check it out. I don't think I've ever seen something like that airshow before."
Serena smiled softly, savoring the compliment. "I'm glad you liked it. I thought it'd be a nice break from all the noise down here."
Ash gave her a grin, but their Pikachu had other plans. His Pikachu jumped forward, playfully nudging Serena's Pikachu, then darting away with a mischievous "Pika-pi!" Serena's Pikachu squeaked indignantly but gave chase, her ribbon fluttering as she tried to catch up to him.
"Your Pikachu's really smitten with mine," Serena teased, her eyes sparkling.
"Yeah, maybe too much ! I guess he's… uh… pretty bold, huh? " Ash said, scratching the back of his neck. "At least, Pikachu's got pretty good taste."
Serena's heart skipped a beat at the unexpected compliment even if it wasn't really related to herself, but she quickly brushed it off.
She slowed her pace slightly, focusing instead on an idea that had been forming in her mind.
Her eyes lit up as she spotted a quaint photobooth at the base of the tower. Its exterior was themed perfectly for the area, with an elegant clock-face design and golden borders.
She glanced at Ash, hesitating for only a moment before speaking.
"A-Ash," she began, her tone casual but with a hint of excitement, "there's something I've always wanted to try at festivals like this. You know those photobooths where you can take pictures together? Want to give it a shot?"
Ash blinked, tilting his head. "A photobooth? You mean those little machines where you squeeze inside and take a bunch of pictures?"
"Yes! It's like a festival tradition—taking fun pictures to remember the day. And it's Galar-themed. Isn't that perfect?" She clasped her hands together and leaned slightly closer to him, her voice softening. "Come on, it'll only take a few minutes. Besides, wouldn't it be nice to have something to remember this by?"
Ash hesitated for a moment but eventually nodded, her enthusiasm winning him over. "Okay, let's do it."
Serena's face lit up, and her Pikachu, overhearing the conversation, let out a cheerful "Pika pi!" as if approving the idea.
The booth was surprisingly spacious inside, with a plush bench and a touch-screen menu offering various filters and frames. Ash and Serena squeezed in, their Pikachu settling themselves in front of the screen.
"Alright," Serena slipped a few coins into the slot, selecting the 'World Grand Contest' theme, which added glittering stars and silhouettes of Pokémon coordinators to the frames. "Let's make these fun!"
The first photo snapped almost immediately, catching Ash mid-yawn and Serena mid-laugh. It was chaotic and unflattering, and both of them burst out laughing when they saw the preview.
"Wow, great start," Ash joked, rubbing the back of his head.
"Okay, okay, that was just a warm-up," Serena said, wiping a tear of laughter from her eye. "Let's actually pose this time."
For the second photo, Serena shifted closer, her arm brushing lightly against Ash's. She tilted her head slightly, her smile soft and natural. Ash, caught off guard, hesitated for a moment but then mirrored her pose. Their Pikachu took the opportunity to strike playful poses between them, making both trainers chuckle.
"Now that's more like it!" Serena said, her voice warm as the preview popped up.
By the third photo, Serena's confidence grew. She looped her arm through Ash's and rested her head on his shoulder. Her cheeks tinged pink, but her smile stayed steady. Ash stiffened briefly, feeling the sudden weight and warmth against him, but seeing Serena's soft expression, he let himself relax.
"Uh, Serena, you're, uh… really close," he mumbled, his voice laced with confusion.
"Hmm? Oh, sorry," she replied lightly, though her teasing smile suggested she wasn't sorry at all. "It just feels… nice resting like that. It.. bother you ?"
"No, no.. !" Ash blinked at her words but decided not to comment more.
For the fourth photo, their Pikachu stole the spotlight. Ash's Pikachu hopped onto his lap, while Serena's joined in, the two of them suddenly jumping in front of the camera. They stood shoulder to shoulder, puffing out their chests as if trying to block their trainers entirely from the shot.
"Hey, what are you two doing?" Ash laughed, scratching his Pikachu behind the ears.
"They just wanted the spotlight," Serena giggled. "Guess we can give it with them."
The camera clicked, capturing the two mischievous Pokémon in the frame, tails intertwined in a mirror of their trainers' bond, while a part of Ash and Serena leaned back, laughing.
Finally, it was time for the last photo. Serena decided to take a small but meaningful leap. As the countdown began, she turned toward Ash, her hands lightly resting on his arm. She leaned in, just enough that their faces were only inches apart.
A delicate fragrance reached him then—light, floral, with a warmth that reminded him of summer fields in Kalos. Ash couldn't figure out what the flower's aroma was, but it was subtle yet pervasive, wrapping around him effortlessly like the moment itself.
"Serena?" Ash whispered, his voice carrying both nervousness and confusion.
"Close your eyes," she whispered back, her voice so soft it felt like a breeze.
Ash blinked at her, startled. "Huh?"
"Just trust me," she murmured, her gaze unwavering.
Though slightly flustered, Ash closed his eyes, and Serena smiled at how obedient he was—surprisingly so, for someone usually so dense. She didn't take things further, but instead leaned her head gently against his, her lips curving into a warm smile. The camera clicked, freezing the tender moment in time.
As they stepped out of the booth, Serena collected the photo strip, her heart racing as she examined the pictures. The last one made her smile the most—her head resting against Ash's, both of them with their eyes closed and serene expressions. It may not be significant for someone like Miette, but it was another step forward for Serena to achieve the right mood.
"Here," she said, holding the strip out to Ash. "What do you think?"
Ash leaned in to look, his Pikachu climbing onto his shoulder to peek as well. "Huh… yeah, they turned out great! Especially the one with the Pikachu hogging the camera," he said with a laugh.
Serena chuckled, tucking the strip into her bag. "I'm keeping this one if you don't mind. It's too good to pass up."
Ash rubbed the back of his neck, a sheepish grin on his face. "Well, that was… for you in first place."
As they walked away from the booth, Serena felt lighter, her confidence bolstered. Ash, however, couldn't shake the subtle but undeniable shift in the atmosphere. He glanced at Serena, who was smiling softly to herself, and found himself wondering what had changed.
As Ash and Serena exited the photobooth, laughing softly about the photos, a faint sound reached their ears—a child's muffled sobbing.
"Do you hear that?" Serena asked, her steps slowing as she scanned the area.
"Yeah," Ash replied, his brow furrowing. He turned his head toward the source, which seemed to come from the base of the tower. "It's coming from over there."
Curious and concerned, the two made their way toward the sound. Inside the lobby of the big tower, they found a small boy sitting on the floor, clutching a little Wooloo plush in his arms. His face was red and streaked with tears as he hiccuped softly.
"Hey, buddy," Ash said, crouching down to the boy's level. Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder and gave a soft "Pika-pi," as if to help comfort the child. "What's wrong?"
The boy sniffled and looked up at them with wide, tear-filled eyes. "I… I lost my mom and dad… I just wanted to find Wooloo…" He held up the plush tightly, as if it were his only anchor.
Serena's heart melted at the sight. She knelt beside Ash, her tone gentle. "It's okay. We'll help you find them. Do you know where you last saw them?"
The boy nodded but his words were jumbled by his nervous hiccups. "I-I saw them by the food stalls, but… there were too many people, and I got lost…"
Ash exchanged a glance with Serena. "Maybe we could take him to the top of the tower. He could look out from up there and see where he saw his parents the last time."
Serena nodded at the idea. "That's smart. Let's ask if we can—"
They approached the ticket booth, but the attendant shook their head firmly. "Sorry, no unattended minors are allowed up the tower. And I can't let anyone up without a ticket and even less without parents around, even if you're helping him."
Ash groaned under his breath. "Seriously? It's a kid, not a baby !"
Serena placed a hand on his arm to calm him down, then turned to the boy. "It's okay. We'll figure something out. We don't need the tower—we'll find your parents another way."
As they stepped out of the lobby, Serena took the boy's right hand, and Ash took his left. The boy blinked up at them, his sniffles subsiding as their comforting presence surrounded him. His Wooloo plush now rested inside his bag.
"You're safe with us, okay?" Serena said, giving him a reassuring smile. "What's your name?"
"Timmy," he said softly.
"Well, Timmy, I'm Serena, and this is Ash. And these two," she added, pointing to their Pikachu walking ahead of them, tails intertwined, "are Pikachu and… um, Pikachu."
"Pika-Pika!" both Pokémon chirped happily.
Timmy giggled for the first time, his grip tightening on their hands. "They're like a little couple!"
Ash rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "Uh, yeah, I guess you could say that."
As they weaved through the bustling streets of Wyndon, Timmy seemed to grow more comfortable. Ash carried him on his shoulders at one point so he could see over the crowd, and Serena kept pointing out various shops and attractions to distract him.
They passed a stand selling candy shaped like Pokémon, and Ash couldn't resist buying some for Timmy, who eagerly munched on a Pikachu-shaped lollipop. Serena smiled at the sight, her heart warming at how naturally Ash interacted with the boy.
"You're good with kids," she said softly.
"Huh?" Ash looked at her, blinking in confusion. "I'm just… doing what anyone would do."
"Not everyone would go this far," she replied, glancing down at Timmy, who now had chocolate smudged on his cheek.
As they continued, the three of them holding hands, more than a few people in the crowd paused to look. The image of Ash and Serena walking hand-in-hand with a child between them looked… almost too natural. Serena caught a few murmurs from onlookers.
"Are they a family?"
"That can't be… can it?"
Her cheeks flushed, but she didn't let go of Timmy's hand. Instead, she stole a glance at Ash, who was oblivious to the whispers and focused entirely on finding Timmy's parents.
Eventually, they approached a larger square where a group of event staff was gathered, coordinating lost and found items—and people. Serena led Timmy toward one of the staff members and quickly explained the situation.
"Oh! We've been looking for him," the staff member said, relief evident in her tone. She radioed for another team, who arrived a few minutes later with a tearful woman and man.
"Timmy!" the woman cried, rushing forward to scoop him up in her arms.
"Mom! Dad!" Timmy clung to them tightly, his Wooloo plush pressed between them.
Serena and Ash stepped back to give them space, a sense of satisfaction washing over them. The mother turned to them with tears in her eyes. "Thank you so much for bringing him back. We were so worried…"
"It's no problem," Ash said, grinning sheepishly.
"Yeah," Serena added, her smile soft. "We're just glad he's safe."
As the family left, Timmy waved at them, his smile wide and grateful. "Bye, Serena! Bye, Ash! Bye, Pikachu and Pikachu!"
"Bye, Timmy!" Serena called back, waving until he disappeared into the crowd.
Ash exhaled deeply and turned to Serena. "Well, that was a workout."
"You can say that again."
They stood in comfortable silence for a moment before Serena noticed something in the distance. "Hey… isn't that the Ferris wheel? It's huge."
Ash followed her gaze and nodded. "Not as huge than the one in Unova but still pretty cool."
"..."
The day had been everything she'd hoped for—laughter, games, and moments that felt like they belonged only to them. But now, standing before the ride, she felt the pull of something deeper, a desire to make this moment unforgettable.
The Ferris wheel loomed above them, glowing with a warm golden light that reflected off the nearby buildings.
As the ride slowed to a stop before them, Serena felt her heart skip a beat. She glanced at Ash, who looked up at the massive structure with wide-eyed curiosity.
Serena said, keeping her voice light, though her nerves fluttered underneath. She tilted her head toward him with a soft smile. "Shall we?"
Ash blinked, then shrugged with a casual grin. "Uh, sure! Why not? It's not every day you get a view of a Ferris Wheel."
They stepped into the gondola, their Pikachu hopping in after them. The operator secured the door with a soft click, and soon they were ascending, the festival lights below transforming into a dazzling sea of color.
The quiet hum of the ride and the gentle swaying of the gondola created an intimacy Serena wasn't sure she'd ever experienced before.
She glanced at Ash, who was leaning forward slightly, his arms resting on his knees as he stared out at the cityscape. He looked so peaceful, so unguarded, and her heart ached with the weight of emotions she'd been carrying for so long.
"This is beautiful," she murmured, her gaze shifting to the sparkling view outside.
"Yeah, like in the clock tower.." Ash replied softly, his voice uncharacteristically subdued. "You can see everything from up here."
Serena smiled, leaning back in her seat as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "Today's been amazing," she said, her tone warm. "I mean it. I've had so much fun… thanks to you."
Serena turned her gaze from the view to him. "Ash," she said softly, her tone pulling his attention back to her. "I just wanted to say… thank you. For today. For everything."
He blinked, his expression puzzled. "What do you mean? You don't have to thank me."
She shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "It's more than that. I… I've been looking forward to spending time with you like this. And it's been… perfect."
Her voice wavered slightly on the last word, and Ash felt his cheeks grow warm. "Uh, I'm glad you're having fun," he replied, not quite meeting her eyes.
Serena leaned closer, her shoulder brushing against his. She tilted her head slightly, giving him a soft, searching look. "Ash, would it be okay if I…?" She paused, her voice barely above a whisper.
"If you… what?" he asked, blinking as he glanced her way.
She hesitated, her fingers brushing against his arm. "If I hold your hand?"
Ash's breath caught for a moment, and he gave her a small, unsure smile. "Uh… yeah, I guess."
Taking his permission as encouragement, Serena reached out, her hand gently brushing against his. He tensed slightly at the contact but didn't pull away. Emboldened, she intertwined their fingers, her touch warm and deliberate.
The gondola swayed gently as they reached the top, the festival below looking impossibly far away.
Serena's heart raced.
She glanced at him again, her grip on his hand tightening slightly.
"Ash," she said softly, her voice trembling but filled with resolve. "There's… something else I want to do. But… only if it's okay with you."
Ash turned to her, his expression confused but curious. "What do you mean?"
She leaned in slightly, her face close enough to his that she could see the faint blush on his cheeks. "This," she murmured, her voice barely audible. She moved even closer, her eyes searching his for any sign of hesitation.
Ash didn't pull away. He didn't move at all, really, as if frozen in place.
Serena took his silence as permission and gently closed the distance, her lips brushing softly against his.
The kiss was warm and lingering, and Serena's heart felt like it might burst.
She closed her eyes, savoring the moment, pouring every feeling she had into it.
When she pulled back, her cheeks were flushed, and she smiled shyly at him. "I… I hope that was okay, I mean.." she said, her voice light and hesitant.
Ash gave her a small smile, his hand still in hers. "U-Uh… yeah yeah. It's great, really !"
The two Pikachu let out a cheerful "Pika-pi!" and hopped onto their laps, snuggling against her as if congratulating their trainers.
Serena giggled, feeling lighter than air. Serena laughed softly, the sound lightening the moment. "Even Pikachu approves," she teased, glancing at Ash.
Ash stared at her, his expression unreadable, but his face was a rare shade of red. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but no words came out. Instead, he turned his gaze back to the view outside, his hand still loosely held in hers.
The gondola began its descent, the festival lights growing brighter as they returned to the ground. Serena leaned her head against Ash's shoulder, sighing contentedly.
She didn't notice the way his free hand gripped the edge of the seat, his knuckles white.
To her, the moment felt perfect—a quiet, shared understanding between them.
When the ride ended, Serena squeezed his hand gently, smiling up at him. "Thank you for this wonderful date, Ash," she said, her voice full of warmth. "It's been… unforgettable."
Ash managed a small smile, his gaze still distant. "I-it's the good word… unforgettable," he murmured.
They walked through the bustling festival crowd, their hands still linked. To Serena, the silence felt peaceful, contemplative—a sign of a bond that didn't need words. But for Ash, each step felt heavier, his thoughts tangled and unformed, unable to process the whirlwind of emotions he couldn't yet name.
The glow of the festival lights cast soft hues over the streets as Ash and Serena made their way back toward the stands near the stadium. Ash walked ahead of her, his hand still holding hers, but there was a subtle tension in his movements. His grip was firm but not tight, and Serena felt a slight tug as he led the way.
Her heart swelled as she watched him, her mind filling with thoughts of how endearing it was to see Ash like this.
Is he trying to take the lead now?
She wondered with a smile, feeling a warmth spread through her chest.
I never thought I'd see him this timid because of me.
Ash, however, wasn't looking back.
"I didn't know you could be so.. you know.." Serena teased lightly, her voice warm and cheerful.
Ash let out a nervous laugh, scratching the back of his head with his free hand. "Uh, really… well… you know," he mumbled, his words trailing off. Quickly, he changed the subject. "So, uh… how's your prep for the contest going? Are you ready for your match tomorrow?"
Serena blinked, slightly surprised by the sudden shift, but she decided to play along.
"I think so. I've been working hard with my Pokémon. Tomorrow's a big day, so I'm giving it my all," she replied, her tone bright.
Ash nodded quickly, his gaze darting ahead. "Be careful, don't underestimate Chloe for one second.."
Before the conversation could deepen, Ash's eyes caught sight of a brightly lit stand ahead. "Hey, look at that! A prize stand," he exclaimed, his voice gaining a hint of his usual enthusiasm. "Maybe we can get something with the tickets we won earlier."
The two approached the stand, only to be greeted by a mountain of Pikachu-themed merchandise—plushies, hats, keychains, and even Pikachu-themed snacks. Serena couldn't help but laugh. "I think Pikachu gets more attention than the actual festival!"
Ash grinned, his usual self shining through. "Well, Pikachu is pretty popular," he said, glancing at his partner, who nodded with a certain arrogance, his arms crossed.
Serena scanned the prizes. "It looks like we don't have enough tickets for anything big, though…"
Before she could say more, the man running the stand suddenly perked up.
"Wait a minute! Aren't you… Ash Ketchum? The World Champion? And aren't you Serena, the Kalos Queen?!"
The two exchanged surprised glances before Ash responded awkwardly. "Uh, yeah, that's us."
The man's face lit up with excitement. "Wow! I never thought I'd see you two stars here! You've done so much for the success of the festival by your presence. Here, take this—on the house!" He reached behind the counter and pulled out a massive Pikachu plushie, placing it in Serena's arms.
Serena hesitated. "Oh, no, we can't—really, we didn't win enough tickets…"
"Nonsense!" the man insisted, waving a hand dismissively. "It's my honor! Consider it a gift for your contest qualification!"
Ash and Serena couldn't help but laugh at the man's enthusiasm. As they walked away from the stand, Serena cradling the enormous plushie, she turned to Ash with a mischievous smile.
"I think this belongs to you," she said, holding the plushie out to him.
"Me?" Ash asked, blinking in confusion.
Serena nodded. "I already got what I wanted from today," she said softly, her cheeks tinged pink. "So I want you to have something special to remember this by, too."
Ash hesitated before finally accepting the plushie, his face a mix of gratitude and slight embarrassment. "Thanks, Serena," he said quietly, glancing at her with a small smile.
Just as they began to head back toward the stadium, familiar voices called out to them.
"Ash!"
Ash turned to see his Alolan friends approaching—Lana, Mallow, Sophocles, all waving enthusiastically.
"There you are!" Mallow said with a grin. "We were wondering where you disappeared to."
Ash shifted awkwardly, the large Pikachu plushie making him look even more flustered. "Oh, uh, we were just… you know, checking out the festival."
Sophocles raised an eyebrow, his sharp gaze flickering between Ash and Serena. "Looks like we missed something interesting," he said with a smirk.
Serena chuckled softly, her heart fluttering at Ash's visible embarrassment.
Ash is so cute when he's like this!
She thought, feeling a sense of pride that she could bring out this side of him.
But as the group began chatting, Serena's thoughts shifted. She glanced at Ash's friends, remembering how irritated and cold she'd felt with his Alolan friends the day before. Now, though, she remembered how important they were to him.
If they mean so much to him, I should make an effort too for not being impolite anymore.
It's the friends of Ash, they're surely interesting people.. Even Kiawe.
Smiling to herself, she resolved to be more welcoming. After all, if she wanted absolutely to be part of Ash's world, she couldn't do it halfway.
Then, Ash's curiosity piqued. "Hmm? Where's Lillie and Kiawe? I haven't seen them yet."
Mallow's eyes sparkled mischievously, and she smirked. "Oh, they're off doing some personal training," she teased, placing just enough emphasis on the words to spark confusion.
Ash tilted his head, intrigued. "Personal training? What's that supposed to mean?"
Lana leaned back, pointing toward a nearby hall. "It's hot in some ways. They're in one of the training rooms over there. You can't miss them."
Hot ?
Without a second thought, Ash brightened. "Alright! I'll go check it out. See you later!" He was already jogging toward the direction Lana had pointed before Serena could react.
"W-Wait! Ash!" Serena called, rushing after him.
He stopped abruptly, glancing back at her. "What's wrong, Serena?"
Her cheeks flushed slightly as she stepped closer, lowering her voice. "Ash… don't you think it's a bad idea to interrupt their personal training?"
Ash frowned, puzzled. "Why would that be bad? It's just training, right?"
Serena fidgeted with her hands, her face growing redder. "Well, maybe it's not just training… It could be something… private."
"Private?" Ash repeated, scratching his head. "You mean like a secret training move?!"
"No!" Serena giggled nervously, unsure of how to phrase it. "I mean, more like… emotional training, you know? Connecting on a deeper level…"
Ash's eyebrows furrowed, as he joked. "Deeper level? What, like digging for treasure or something?"
Serena burst out laughing despite herself, shaking her head. "No, Ash, not like that! I mean… like… spending time together in a special way. It could be… intimate training."
Ash blinked, entirely unfazed by her implication. "Intimate? I still don't get it. Training is training. I'm sure they won't mind if I stop by to say hi."
Serena sighed, giving up on trying to explain. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you…"
The sound of rhythmic movement and muffled laughter greeted them as they approached the training room. Curious, Ash peeked through the slightly ajar door and let out a loud laugh.
Inside, Kiawe was demonstrating energetic dance steps to Lillie, his arms moving in precise motions while his feet tapped out a sharp, synchronized rhythm.
"Left foot, Lillie! Now your right!" Kiawe called, his voice firm but encouraging.
"I'm trying!" Lillie said breathlessly, her feet shuffling across the floor. She nearly tripped but quickly recovered, determination etched on her face.
"That's better! Loosen up a bit! Don't think too hard!" Kiawe laughed, clapping his hands to keep the rhythm.
"Like this?" Lillie asked, mimicking his movements as best as she could.
"Close! But try it again," Kiawe replied, his usual serious demeanor softening as he cheered her on.
"Man, this dance looks pretty wild!" Ash said with a grin. "What are you guys up to?"
Lillie froze mid-step, her face turning pink as she noticed Ash and Serena. "A-Ash.. and Serena! Uh…" she stammered, glancing nervously at Kiawe for support.
"It's just some training," Kiawe said, crossing his arms with a casual smile. "Lillie wanted to work on her stage presence, and I figured some choreography might help her out."
"Choreography?" Serena repeated, raising an eyebrow as Ash.
"How does that help in a battle?"
"Yep!" Kiawe replied. "I'm teaching her some traditional Alolan dances. It's got rhythm, energy, and flair—all great qualities for a Pokémon Contest performance."
Lillie nodded quickly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I thought it might help me feel more confident on stage. I've been struggling with connecting to the audience during my performances, and Kiawe said this could help me loosen up."
"Loosen up? I mean, you always seem pretty confident to me."
Ash tilted his head, curious as Lillie let out a nervous laugh. "Thanks, but… when I'm in front of an audience, it's different. I get so focused on not messing up that I forget to have fun or show my true emotions. Kiawe said these dances could help me express myself better, not just with my moves but with how I connect to my Pokémon during our routine."
Serena smiled, her initial embarrassment fading. "That actually makes a lot of sense. Connecting with your Pokémon and the audience is one of the most important parts of a contest."
Kiawe stepped forward, his usual confidence shining through. "Exactly. Back in Alola, dancing is all about telling a story through movement. Every step, every gesture—it all comes from the heart. If Lillie can bring that same energy to her performance, she'll leave the audience in awe, and her opponent will losing score."
Lillie nodded firmly. "It's definitely not easy to master, but I'm determined to learn and show to everyone how the beauty of Alola can be unique."
"Still look funny to me but I understand the idea. Just be careful of the timing in the battle to use that !" Ash asked, his excitement bubbling. "Mind if we join the fun ?"
"Sure," Kiawe said with a smirk. "Just don't distract Lillie. She's making real progress."
Kiawe, always confident and composed, stood at the center of the group, a ceremonial baton in hand. His Marowak mirrored his movements with uncanny precision, the two moving as one.
Serena hesitated at the edge of the circle, twirling a stray strand of honey-blonde hair nervously between her fingers. "Ash," she murmured softly, her voice tinged with doubt, "I'm not sure this is such a good idea. This dance looks... complicated even for me."
Ash, ever the optimist, waved her concerns away with a carefree grin. His dark eyes sparkled with determination. "Come on, Serena! You know me—I'm always up for a challenge. Let's all give it a shot!"
Serena's cheeks flushed pink as she glanced at the others. "You mean... this type of dance?" She eyed the fluid yet intricate steps Kiawe demonstrated, feeling a little out of her depth. "I'm not exactly familiar with Alolan traditional dances, but... I guess I could try."
Lillie, standing beside her, placed a gentle hand on her arm and smiled encouragingly. "Don't worry, Serena. It's not about being perfect—it's about having fun and expressing yourself. Besides, with Ash around, things are bound to be entertaining!"
That earned a small giggle from Serena. She adjusted her grip on the practice baton she'd been handed and nodded. "Alright, I'll give it a shot."
Kiawe stepped forward, his expression serious as he took on the role of instructor. "It's not as hard as it looks," he said, demonstrating a few moves with sharp precision. "Watch carefully. You hold the baton like this—" He raised it above his head in a sweeping arc. "—and move your feet in sync with the rhythm."
Serena furrowed her brow in concentration and mimicked his movements. "Like this?"
Kiawe nodded approvingly. "Good. Now, follow my lead. Left, right, spin, and jump!"
Marowak joined in, moving effortlessly beside Kiawe, its bone club a blur of motion. The duo exuded a natural grace that Serena couldn't help but admire. She did her best to follow, stepping left, then right, spinning clumsily before landing off balance.
Meanwhile, Ash had grabbed a baton of his own and plunged headfirst into the routine. "Left, right, spin... Wait, spin?!" His attempt at twirling resulted in a spectacular wobble, and he nearly lost his footing.
Kiawe let out a hearty laugh. "Yeah, Ash, the spin is part of the routine. Keep up!"
Ash flashed a sheepish grin and tried again, only to trip over his own feet. "Uh-oh... I think I need more practice."
Lillie covered her mouth to stifle a giggle. "It's okay, Ash. You'll get the hang of it eventually."
Serena, watching Ash's comically chaotic attempts, couldn't help but smile. "Looks like you've got your work cut out for you, Ash," she teased lightly.
"I'll have you know I'm improving!" Ash shot back, grinning despite his struggles. "At least I'm keeping everyone entertained, right?"
The group dissolved into laughter as Ash continued his impromptu freestyle, completely out of sync with the beat but undeniably full of spirit.
Serena and Lillie soon found themselves lost in the rhythm, their movements becoming smoother and more confident with each pass of the routine. Serena's natural grace as a performer shone through, and Lillie's determination to match her was equally impressive.
"You two are catching on quickly!" Kiawe remarked, clearly impressed. "You're almost in sync with the music."
"Almost?" Serena teased, her tone playful as she wiped a bead of sweat from her brow.
"You're doing great!" Lillie chimed in, her voice bright with enthusiasm.
As the music picked up speed, the routine grew more complex. Serena and Lillie navigated the twists and turns with surprising ease, while Ash's efforts grew increasingly haphazard. At one point, his wild flailing nearly knocked Lillie off balance.
"Careful, Ash!" Serena exclaimed, struggling not to laugh. "At this rate, you're going to trip over your own shadow."
Lillie, barely keeping her footing, joined in the teasing. "Yeah, Ash, you're making it hard for us to concentrate!"
Ash straightened up, scratching the back of his head with an embarrassed chuckle. "Well, at least I try!"
The laughter continued until the routine finally came to an end. Lillie beamed as she turned to Serena. "Great job, Serena! You caught on so quickly. Your moves were amazing—just like your ranking!"
Serena's cheeks flushed at the compliment. "Thank you, Lillie. And thanks for inviting me to join in. This was... more fun and interesting than I expected."
Lillie nodded, her eyes sparkling. "And thanks to Ash, we got some extra comic relief."
Ash puffed out his chest proudly. "Hey, I may not be the best dancer, but I know how to bring energy to a group."
Kiawe crossed his arms, a nostalgic look softening his usually stern features. "You know, this reminds me of when Ash first tried Alolan dancing back in the day. He wasn't half bad back then."
Ash grinned. "Oh, you mean that time with Oricorio and the others? Yeah, I remember! I had to keep up with its rhythm—it was no joke!"
"Funny how you were more in sync with a Pokémon than you are now."
Kiawe smirked, as Lillie giggled. "Ash, you would probably be a star on the Alolan dance industry. Maybe you should've gone pro!"
"That doesn't exist," Kiawe interjected, disgusted by the idea.
Lillie's grin turned mischievous. "I can fix that."
"No, no ! I'm already a World Champion. Can't go stealing the spotlight from my Pokémon now, can I? Beside, I'm done dancing, let's move on!"
Serena laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Hmm.. I have to admit, Ash as a professional dancer would be something I would like to see."
Even more when his childhood friend remembers that disaster when he danced with Miette in the past.
Her frustration from that day seems so distant now, but the idea of dancing with him still tempts her, even though he hasn't improved his slow dancing since then.
But today is already perfect as it is.
The soft hum of conversation and laughter filled the private lounge, the ambient sounds of the nearby World Grand Contest mingling with the distant calls of Pokémon outside. Ash stood near the edge of the room, his trusty Rotom Phone in hand, its glowing screen casting a faint light over his face. He glanced around at his friends, a cheerful grin plastered across his face, though a faint shadow of something more complex lingered beneath the surface.
His gaze returned to the others as he pocketed the device. "I'm starting to feel a little hungry now," he said brightly, his tone as enthusiastic as ever. "How about we all grab a table at a restaurant, like yesterday? That was fun, right?"
Serena hesitated, her sapphire eyes softening with regret. "Sorry, Ash," she began gently, her hands clasped in front of her. "But Lillie and I already have plans with some of the other coordinators. We're meeting up with them."
Lillie nodded in agreement, her expression apologetic but warm. "Yeah, we made arrangements earlier. It's sort of a pre-contest meetup."
Ash's smile didn't falter, though there was a flicker of something unspoken in his gaze—something he quickly brushed aside. "No worries!" he said, his voice as cheerful as ever. "Have a great time with the others!"
Serena's lips curved into a soft smile, a mix of gratitude and lingering hesitation. "Thanks, Ash. We'll see you tomorrow."
Lillie waved as she followed Serena toward the exit. "Good luck finding a good spot to eat! It's pretty crowded!" she called over her shoulder.
Ash nodded and lifted his hand in a wave. "Good luck tomorrow!" he called after the girls, his voice carrying a genuine warmth.
The Kalos trainer watched them leave, their retreating forms disappearing into the bustling energy of the contest venue.
He stood there for a moment longer, an almost imperceptible sigh escaping him before he turned to Kiawe. "What do you say, Kiawe? Want to go ahead and pick out a restaurant?"
Kiawe shrugged, his usual confident demeanor in place. "Sounds like a plan, Ash. Let's see what's out there."
As the door swung shut behind them, the room fell into a quiet stillness.
Ash turned to follow Kiawe, but something made him pause.
He scanned the room, his brows furrowing slightly. "Hey, Pikachu? Buddy?" he called, his voice echoing faintly in the now-empty space.
From behind a cluster of chairs, a familiar pair of pointed yellow ears poked up. Pikachu emerged with a determined expression, struggling to carry a large Pikachu plushie that was nearly as big as he was. The sight made Ash blink in surprise before a smile tugged at his lips.
"Hey, there you are," Ash said, crouching down as Pikachu waddled over, still clutching the plushie. "What's this? Oh, right—the Pikachu plushie from earlier." He carefully took it from Pikachu's paws. "Thanks for grabbing it, buddy. I almost forgot about it."
He paused, tilting his head slightly. "But where were you, huh? I didn't see you around."
Pikachu's response was short, but there was a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Pika pi pi!"
Ash raised an eyebrow, his tone playful but curious. "Private, huh? Alright, pal." He ruffled Pikachu's head fondly before standing, holding the plushie under one arm.
"Ash!" Kiawe's voice came from the doorway, a note of impatience cutting through the quiet. "I'm waiting to lock up!"
Ash turned to find Kiawe watching him, his gaze dropping to the plushie in Ash's arms. "What's that?" Kiawe asked, gesturing toward it.
Ash hesitated for a fraction of a second before responding, his usual grin in place. "Oh, this? Just a little memory from today."
But as the words left his lips, his gaze lingered on the plushie for just a moment too long.
Something tightened in his chest, a strange, unfamiliar ache he couldn't quite place.
He felt a single tear slide down his cheek, warm and unbidden. The sudden rush of emotion startled him, and he quickly brushed the tear away with the back of his hand, hoping Kiawe hadn't noticed.
Kiawe's sharp eyes didn't miss much, but he chose not to press the matter. Instead, he nodded knowingly, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Private memory, huh? Alright, dude. No need to say more."
"Yeah," Ash said softly, his voice quieter now. He cleared his throat and forced a brighter tone. "Let's go find that restaurant and invite some friends."
The two exited the room, Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder and the plushie tucked securely under his arm. The vibrant lights and sounds of the contest venue greeted them as they stepped into the corridor, but Ash barely noticed.
His mind was elsewhere, his thoughts swirling in a way they rarely did.