The Three Musketeers of Kalos

by amourshipping

A Pokemon amourshipping AU based on Disney's Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers.

6. Forbidden Love

The next day, Team Rocket returned to Lumiose to face the wrath of Giovanni. They looked worse for wear and were sniffling and sneezing the whole way back. Blasting off straight into a lake, had given them an unfortunate, but deserved cold. They awaited Giovanni's arrival in the dungeon, as they heard his boots thunder down the stairs once more. Team Rocket gulped and braced themselves, not being able to stop themselves from shivering and not just because of their colds. He entered the room and didn't say a single word, instead just circling around them intimidatingly again.
'Well? What happened?'

No one wanted to speak, as they nudged each other to respond. Giovanni shook his head.

'Alright. None of you want to talk? You'll just have to spend some more time in the pit then!' he threatened.

Giovanni's arm reached over to the lever.

'Oh, no, no! Please! That won't be necessary!' pleaded Jessie.

'Okay. You tell me then, Jessie. And make it quick.'

Jessie looked petrified, as she meekly nodded.

'Well… Everything went to plan and we locked the princess up in the Shalour prison tower just like you said…'

'But?'

'But… the Musketeers you assigned to the princess… They just overpowered us and we were outmatched! Please accept our humblest apologies, sir!'
Jessie put her hands together in a praying position.

'Outmatched? OUTMATCHED?' bellowed Giovanni.

'We're sorry,' said James quietly.

'Yeah, they just caught us off guard. We'll do better next time!' said Meowth.

'Hmm. And here I was thinking I trained you three well enough to handle it…'

'You did! We just need another chance, if you'd be so merciful to grant us one!' pleaded Jessie.

Giovanni chuckled. Team Rocket began to plead their case, making up several excuses, but Giovanni wasn't listening.

'Enough! Let me think!'

Team Rocket nodded and shut their mouths. Giovanni stroked his chin and began to re-think his big master plan. And then an unnerving grin appeared on his face, which scared Team Rocket's pants off.

'Okay. I've made my mind up. I'll give you another chance.'

Team Rocket looked at each other with surprised faces. The captain wasn't usually this generous and patient.

'Oh, thank you!' grovelled Team Rocket.

They bowed down to his feet and couldn't believe their luck. But Giovanni just looked down at them with disgust.

'Hmm. Don't get too happy. I've merely only re-thought my strategy. You will only remain in my service, while I deem you useful enough to me. Remember. You're just the players in my master plan.'

'Oh, of course. We are just very thankful to still be in your employment, sir,' said Meowth.

Giovanni sneered at him.

'For now... In your defence, it does seem as though I have underestimated our Musketeer friends. So I will need time to think of the next course of action.'

'We await your orders, dutifully, Captain!' said James.

'Hmmm. Well, it's a shame you couldn't carry out my last orders, could you? You failed me. So, you still need to be punished.'

Giovanni pulled the lever without any warning and Team Rocket fell into the pit again. They screamed and then started sneezing. The pit was almost as cold and damp as the lake. Giovanni cursed their incompetence and then exited the dungeon, where Agent O was waiting outside. He looked at her with an evil glint in his eye. It was time to enlist her services…

The next couple weeks were a dream to Ash and Serena, as they started going on a few secret dates together. They were on cloud 9 and falling in love with each other more and more everyday. The only problem was keeping it all secret - from literally everyone. Even Brock and Gary finding out was not an option and certainly not something they could risk. So, most of their dates took place in the secret room, with very few being outside of the palace. And of course, they had to be in disguise if they wanted to spend time together outside. Anyone could be watching after all. Serena was used to disguising herself by now anyway, so it wasn't much of a problem. But naturally, she wished they could just be open about their relationship. She wanted to shout it out to the world and declare her love for Ash to anyone who would listen. Serena was not ashamed of it. Not one bit. It was just maybe unwise to publicly broadcast it. So they wrapped themselves in royal robes and wore masks to conceal themselves.

All fortnight long, the new happy couple had been thinking of ways they could buy more time together. It was proving to be few and far between and a very expensive luxury they could barely afford. But they weren't going to give up so easily. And today was a particularly good day to get away from the palace. Serena had a very rare day off from her usual duties and took the chance while she could and decided to hire a boat on the Lumiose river, just for her and Ash. She didn't want to take a royal boat to attract attention, but would have gladly done so if she could. So that was where they found themselves early one morning, drifting along the peaceful tide, in a serene bliss. Not many people were awake yet, so it was the perfect time for it. They had packed a picnic for breakfast and were very eager to eat. As they got away from the city, they felt comfortable enough to take their masks off now.

'So, where are we headed, Serena?' asked Ash. 'I can't wait to get there. I'm famished.'

Ash's stomach grumbled and Serena giggled.

'Oh, you'll see. It's not too far now. I know how much you love your food, Ash.'
She leant over and kissed Ash's cheek.

'Well, as long as we get some privacy, I'm happy.'

Serena half-smiled, feeling a little bad that their dates were so painfully restricted. Ash deserved so much better. They both did. It was just for the best. For now at least. But Serena still felt as though she had to assure Ash, that she was 100% on board. She didn't want to lose him again.

'Ash?'

'Yes, Serena?'

'You know I would happily introduce you to all my friends and family and make our relationship public, right? I just-'

Ash put a finger on her lips.

'Shh. It's okay. I know. I'd rather be with you not at all. If this is how it must be… then I can live with it. I just want you.'

'Oh, but Ash! You deserve so much more!'

'And so do you! But we can not help where we come from, can we? And the only thing that truly matters is how we feel about each other, right?'

Serena nodded in agreement.

'No, we can not help it. And yes, that is all I care about too. I just dream of a world where everyone is equal and free to be with whoever they choose…'

Ash nodded back at her and rubbed her back comfortingly.

'Yeah. Me too.'

They hugged each other and then they had finally reached their destination. Ash tied the boat to a dock with some rope and then he helped Serena out. They had arrived in the countryside area of Lumiose, with hardly any human life in sight. Only a few Pokemon inhabited this part of Lumiose. It was just seemingly endless fields of green grass and forests. Perfect for a secret date. Serena had come here a lot when she was a child, to get away from the city life and to be free from the duties of being a royal. She had not been here since she was 13, so it was quite refreshing to return after 5 years away. Serena breathed the air in and smiled at Ash.

'See. This is perfect, Ash. We can set the picnic up by those trees over there.'

Serena pointed a little further down and Ash happily approved. He just wanted to eat now. So they walked further on and laid out a blanket and emptied the contents of the picnic basket on it. Then they took their robes off and sat down and just let the breeze blow through their hair. Serena had personally requested her royal cooks to include food she knew Ash would like. She had learnt that he was quite a big foodie with a big appetite, despite his fit physique. She really had no clue where he put it all. But she loved that about him. Especially that he had a particular taste for her macaroons. They started off with sandwiches and savoury things and then moved on to the sweeter platters. And that was when Serena got a delightful idea. She grinned and reached over to the macaroons behind her and picked a few up. Ash immediately noticed them and licked his lips, not taking his eyes off them for one second. Serena waved one in his face.

'Want one?'

'Oh, yes please!'

'Okay. But only if you let me feed them to you.'

Ash chuckled.

'Why, Princess? If that is your wish, then I am humbly obliged to abide by it.'

Ash winked and Serena giggled.

'It is my wish. So open wide.'

Ash happily did as he was told and allowed Serena to pop macaroon after macaroon in his mouth. Serena giggled again.

'You know, you're incredibly adorable when you're eating, Ash. Especially when you eat my macaroons. I can always see how much you enjoy them.'

'Oh, I really do love them,' mumbled Ash, with a full mouth.

'Why, thank you, Ash. I actually made them myself.'

Ash swallowed his food, with a surprised look on his face.

'Oh, really? All by yourself?'

Serena nodded and smiled.

'Well, I didn't think you could be any more perfect for me, but…'

Ash shrugged and then Serena blushed.

'Aww, well there's much more of them where that came from. And a lot of these too…'

Serena suddenly pounced on him and attacked him with kisses. Ash didn't see that coming at all, but certainly wasn't complaining and allowed Serena to continue the onslaught and lay him down on the blanket. She put her hands on his chest and swung her legs over him, to get on top of him. They made out with each other like that for a while, gently grabbing tufts of each other's hair and only pausing for air every thirty seconds or so. They couldn't get enough of each other and they both wanted more, but thought it was better not to rush it. And also not to chance it either. They wanted their first time to be special and definitely not in such a risky scenario. Even so, Serena did have to admit to herself that the idea of doing it right now, so daringly, would have been quite hot. But she told herself to wait for the right time. She rolled off Ash and grabbed his hand. They remained like that for a while, just enjoying the beauty of the morning sky and the calming feeling of the countryside nature. Then Ash suddenly got an idea of his own.

'Hey, Serena. Come back over here. It's my turn to feed you.'
Serena grinned cheekily.

'Oh, what do you have in mind?'

Ash reached over to get some grapes and winked at her. Serena seemed to get his drift and excitedly shuffled closer to him.

'Lay your head on my chest.'

Ash patted his chest, inviting her over. Serena relaxed herself onto Ash and allowed him to lower grapes into her mouth. She looked up at him and couldn't stop herself from smiling. Serena thanked her lucky stars that the universe was kind enough to reunite her with Ash. Maybe it was in somewhat strange circumstances - needing protection after an attempt on life. But she wouldn't have had it any other way. And right now, she was the happiest she'd ever been. She'd never even had a boyfriend or anything before, because no one was half as good as Ash in her eyes. Which was incredibly ironic, considering their big differences in how they grew up and their opposing statuses in society. Yet, it really just proved Serena's beliefs about everyone being equal, right. But unfortunately, most of the higher class were still stuck in the past and wouldn't see it that way. Serena was happy, but the more she thought about what people would think about her relationship with Ash, the more her mood started to falter. She frowned and sighed.

'Hey, what's wrong, beautiful?' asked Ash.

He leant over and rubbed her leg.

'Oh, nothing. I'm just thinking too much…'

'Well, if you tell me what you're thinking, maybe I can help make you feel better?'

Serena sat up a little and readjusted herself. And then she looked up at that handsome face again.

'Oh, alright. I do feel like I can tell you anything now.'

'Well, of course you can! We are together now, right?'

Serena nodded.

'So, what's on your mind then?'

'I- I'm just disappointed with the world we live in, you know?'

'Yeah. I know what you mean, Serena. Before I became your protector, I was just a cleaner. A nobody. With hardly any Pokedollars to survive day by day. Barely even having enough to eat some days. That's why I appreciate food as much as I do.'
Serena gasped a little. She hadn't heard Ash's backstory yet and was very intrigued to know more.

'Oh, I didn't know that... I'm sorry you went through that. But that's exactly what I'm talking about. I hate that there's such a big divide between the classes and the poor are so disadvantaged and there's nothing I can do about it. But, please. Listen to me, Ash.'

Ash looked over at her intently, taking the conversation very seriously.

'Hmm?'

'You are not a nobody! And you never were! You were just unfortunate. I know full well that you can not help what family you are born into… I had no choice either. And being a princess is both a blessing and a curse.'

'Oh, my dear. I can only imagine.'

Ash stroked her hair.

'And I can only imagine how hard your life must have been growing up. I do so wish there was a way to help the poor, less fortunate folk.'

'Well, that's admirable for a Princess to say. It really is, Serena. But unfortunately, it is just the way it is and there isn't really a solution to it. Unless of course, you get a rare once in a lifetime opportunity, like I have, to change your life.'

Serena was quite surprised at how well spoken Ash could be and how level-headed he was. Most unlike what her family had always made commoners out to be. And she couldn't help but fall a little bit more in love with him right now.

'You know, I always thought it would be easy to make everything better once I took the throne. But the truth is, I have no real power or influence. I just can't change the way people think!' exclaimed Serena exasperatingly.

'Oh yeah? Well I couldn't care less what they think! All I care about is you and I'll fight for us, whatever it takes! Hell, I'll take down the whole stupid system if I have to!'
Serena laughed.

'Oh, Ash. You are the most remarkable man I've ever met. But I don't think even you would be capable of that. It'll take more than just one man, unfortunately.'

'Oh, well... I'd certainly give it my best shot anyway!'

They both laughed and then Ash wrapped his arms around Serena tight and kissed her forehead. Serena closed her eyes and smiled. She felt safe in his arms and never wanted to let go of him. Serena could take a nap right there in that second and fall further under Ash's charming spell. But they had to head back to the palace soon, before anyone got too suspicious of their whereabouts. They'd already been gone a couple hours now.

'Well, I really admire your devotion to me, Ash. No one has ever cared for me as much as you.'

Serena let go of Ash a little reluctantly and laid herself back down onto the blanket.

'Well, it's because I've never felt this way about anyone before. And I just knew you were the one for me the moment I laid eyes on you… Well… the second time actually.'

Serena laughed.

'Well, you certainly did leave an impression on me when we were children. But, yes. I felt exactly the same way when we met again at the palace.'

Ash leaned across and kissed Serena one last time, before they had to return. They wished they could stay there all day and not have to separate again. But they had no choice. They sighed longingly and agreed that it was time to go back to their everyday lives. Any time they did get alone, really did have to be sacredly cherished. But the young lovers were more than willing to make it work.

Five days later, Ash and Serena had finally found some rare alone time together again. Serena had been fully booked with royal duties for the whole five days and barely even had the chance to see her lover's face in that period of time. It was incredibly hard acting like they were not so ravenously attracted to each other, especially being in the early stages of their relationship and not yet being able to do anything more than passionately kiss each other thus far.

Ash entered Serena's quarters late at night and closed the door quietly behind him. He'd snuck in without anyone noticing and surprised Serena. She almost screamed from the initial shock of it, but Ash put his hand over her mouth to stop her.

'Shh. It's only me, Princess. And don't worry. No one saw me come in.'

Ash took his hand off her mouth and then Serena relaxed and immediately hugged him. It was a long crunching hug, with real feeling and emotion. Then Serena pulled Ash's face down to hers and they shared each other's saliva once more, after what felt like eternity.

'That was the longest 5 days of my life, Ash,' whispered Serena in his ear. 'I'm sorry I couldn't see you sooner.'

'No apologies necessary, Serena. I could see how much it pained you to be away from me. But I'm here now.'

'I know and I couldn't be happier. But we are on borrowed time. Someone could come in any-'
Ash kissed her again, full of untamable lust.

'Mmm, I don't care,' he muffled between kisses. 'I just want you.'

Serena's brain was screaming at her to do the sensible thing and tell him to leave. But she instead let Ash continue to shower her in kisses, as he started to lower himself down to her neck now. She mumbled something and then groaned in pleasure.

'I- I-' began Serena. 'I want you too.'

She started to get a little carried away now and became easily consumed by the lust too. She was starving and being fed by the one man she simply could not resist. Raging hormones were over taking her better judgement and she completely lost herself in the moment. And it only got worse, when Ash guided her down onto the bed and started to run his hands down Serena's body a little, for the first time and it was like she'd died and gone to heaven. She had no chance now.

'Oh, oui.'

Serena couldn't stop herself getting a handful of Ash too and was finally able to really appreciate his body. This may not have been the best time or place for it, but God, did it need to happen sooner rather than that. Or they might have both exploded. They'd already waited too long for it as it was. Ash and Serena were all over each other and were so deeply into it, until they heard something abruptly halt the pleasure train. They snapped their eyes open in panic. There was silence for about 10 seconds, but then they heard the sound again. A faint sound, that they thought they were being paranoid about at first. But then a second, much louder sound of knocking shook fear into them. They quickly jumped up off the bed and fixed themselves up, sorting their clothes and hair out. The doorknob twisted and then the door flung open, just as their arms went back down to their sides. Shauna walked in, but then stopped on the spot, looking curiously at her best friend and the man she so emphatically hugged back at the prison tower. She looked between them a few times, trying to suss something out.

'Hello, Lady Shauna. What are you doing here? I did not summon you,' asked Serena.

'Oh, I just wanted to talk to you about something important… But what is he doing here?' interrogated Shauna, pointing at Ash.

'Oh, Ash? Ash… Well… he.. He's just…'

Serena struggled to come up with an excuse, causing Shauna to raise an eyebrow.

'Uh… Her Majesty summoned me to talk about the new security arrangements!' intervened Ash.

Shauna gave them a funny look, not quite believing the made up story.

'Yes! That's it! It just briefly slipped my mind when you came in! It's been a long day!'
Serena chuckled nervously and then Ash nodded along, to make it look good. Shauna thought they were acting strange, but she really did have something important to say, so she decided to ignore it and move on.

'Oh, right… Well, if you don't mind, I really do have something urgent to say, Your Highness. So…'

Shauna looked at Ash and motioned her head towards the door, to try and get him to leave. Serena looked a little annoyed at Shauna, being so rude to Ash and ruining her precious time with Ash and interrupting such a pleasing evening of intimacy. But she nodded in agreement and asked Ash to leave. She didn't really have a choice anyway, if it really was urgent. Ash was annoyed too, but hid it better than Serena and walked out of the room, without any protest. It was incredibly frustrating, just when they were getting to the good bit.

'Goodnight, Lady Shauna. Goodnight, Your Majesty.'

Ash tipped his hat and closed the door behind him. He returned to his duties alongside Gary and Brock and sighed. He loved being a Musketeer, but he'd happily give it all up, if it meant he could be with Serena whenever he wanted. In truth, he wanted both, but it didn't seem to be allowed by the powers of love. Ash would just have to be patient and wait for the right moments.

Another week later, Serena was desperately trying to get away from yet another monthly meeting with all the lords and ladies of Kalos. She rolled her eyes at Wulfric, who was waffling on about an old story from his youth. She didn't care about that or anything right now. Serena just wanted to see Ash. She impatiently tapped her foot, like a schoolgirl in class, desperate for the bell to go, so she could see her boyfriend at the school gates. Then the meeting was finally wrapped up by her cousin, Clemont. She took a big sigh of relief and was the first to get up and leave. But Clemont stopped her by putting a hand on her shoulder.

'Your Majesty, where are you going in such a rush? You barely even listened to my story about my new invention!' asked an offended Clemont.

'Oh. Sorry, Lord Clemont. I'm just a little… preoccupied.'

Serena took a quick glance at the clock in the room and was conscious of time. She didn't want to keep her lover waiting.

'Yes, I can see that… If I'm not mistaken, I'd say something's changed since the last meeting.'

Serena shook her head, acting dumbfounded by his suggestion.

'Hmm? What do you mean? Nothing's changed at all!'

'Well, I know you don't like these meetings, but you're even more distracted than usual. Almost as if… You have something… Or someone on your mind?'

Clemont stroked his chin, trying to read his cousin's face. Serena panicked and widened her eyes, thinking Clemont somehow knew something.

'Well, no! That's preposterous! I'm not seeing anyone!'

Serena gasped and realised what she had just accidentally blurted out, as her cheeks flared up in embarrassment. Clemont raised an eyebrow and chuckled, wondering why Serena was so defensive and immediately dismissed the notion of a mystery man being on the scene. She was only making her cousin more suspicious now.

'Well… I wasn't insinuating that you were, Your Majesty. But now you mention it, Duchess Bonnie has scouted a few more potential suitors for you, who wish to court you. They will be attending the royal masquerade ball next week, if you're interested.'

Serena growled frustratingly and rolled her eyes. She absolutely adored Bonnie, but she was getting very tired now, of her little cousin constantly throwing inadequate men at her. Especially now she'd found who she believed to be "the one."

'Oh, no. That won't be necessary, Lord Clemont. I'm not interested in courting with anyone right now,' lied Serena.

She of course, was very much interested in that and more with her one and only, beloved Ash.

'Hmm, I understand. But with all due respect, Your Majesty, you are well aware by now, just how important it is that the Durand bloodline continues. And you know you will never be a queen until you find your king.'

'Yes, I am fully aware of that. I do not need reminding, cousin,' she replied, with gritted teeth.

Serena was sick of hearing it by now, but she would be lying to herself if she hadn't thought of Ash sitting beside her in the throne room, as her king. That was the dream.

'Right, of course. Forgive me, Your Majesty. But I am only saying it with your best interests at heart. And I want nothing more than to see you rule Kalos, just as well as your mother did. We are family, afterall and she was my Aunt… And one of her dying wishes to me and Duchess Bonnie, was for us to find you your king.'

Serena sighed sadly and mourned for her late mother. She hadn't given her much thought since Ash came into her life. But she still very much missed her and was still grieving a little. Ash had just made it easier to get through for the past 5 or so months.

'Yes, I know. I miss her very much… But I simply do not wish to marry someone that is not good enough for me. And Bonnie's choices are… to say it nicely… just a little unexciting for me.'

Clemont chuckled and shook his head, knowing just how picky his cousin was.

'Well, I have noted that. But one of them will be good enough this time. I can personally assure you of that! Bonnie has handpicked the bes-'

He stopped mid sentence and realised Serena wasn't even listening anymore. Serena looked incredibly disinterested and was itching to leave, to be with the only man who ticked all her boxes. Clemont seemed to be reading into that too and remembered how quick she denied seeing anyone earlier. And that was completely unprovoked, so Clemont assumed something was up. He squinted his eyes at her through his glasses, as the sun reflected off them and caused his lenses to shimmer slightly.

'Unless... Unless of course, you are in fact, already seeing someone?' probed Clemont.

Serena was taken off guard by the sudden accusation. But she reacted fast and let out an amused laugh, that was a little forced.

'Why, of course not! I should think you would know, that I would tell my own family of such an important event, if it were to happen, non?'

Serena wanted to make it as believable as possible and throw her cousin off the scent here. Clemont wasn't entirely buying it, though and adjusted his glasses a little. He was still trying to read his cousin's mind and her facial expressions.

'Well, yes of course, Your Majesty. I should think you would…'

Clemont looked very unconvinced, but he didn't probe it any further. Whatever it was, it clearly wasn't going to be easy to get it out of Serena, he thought.

'Right, well, if that is all, Lord Clemont, I really do have other engagements to attend to.'

'Oh, yes, of course. Apologies for taking up your time, Your Majesty. That will be all, thank you. I shall see you at the ball next week.'

Clemont bowed to her and they both said the necessary goodbye pleasantries and then Serena was gone in a flash. But Clemont wasn't satisfied one bit and suspected there was something big that she was hiding. So he followed her around the palace, keeping himself at a distance, so as not to be caught. Serena went halfway across the palace, until she entered her library. Clemont was about to follow her in, when someone suddenly put a hand on his shoulder and made him jump.

'Excuse me, sir. But who might I ask, are you? And why are you trying to enter the Princess's personal library?' questioned Brock.

He was patrolling the palace halls today and wouldn't let any old stranger wander around without permission from the princess herself.

'Oh, I have not seen you around here before, Musketeer. I am Lord Clemont of Lumiose City. Who are you?'

Brock's eyes immediately widened and then he knelt before him, in humble apology. He had heard about Clemont from Serena before and knew they were cousins, but he did not know what he looked like until now. Plus, Brock could see Clemont was dressed exactly as a lord should be. So he certainly fit the description.

'Oh, please do forgive me, sir. I was not aware of your presence here at the palace today.'

Clemont waved it off and shook his head.

'No matter. Apologies are not necessary. You may rise, Musketeer. Now, I repeat, who are you?'

Brock stood back up and saluted him.

'I am Musketeer Brock. One of three personal protectors, assigned to Princess Serena, by Captain Giovanni, sir.'

Clemont stroked his chin, in deep thought about this information.

'Oh, yes. I heard that the princess had acquired bodyguards some time ago. And I heard about the rescue. So well done for that, Musketeer.'

'Thank you, sir.'

Clemont nodded in respect.

'Now, if you don't mind, I have something to attend to in the library.'

'Of course, sir.'

Brock stood aside to allow him through.

'Thank you. You were right not to trust me, though, Musketeer. I can see you are very thorough in your job. I expect Captain Giovanni must have handpicked the best of the best.'

Clemont smiled at Brock, who gave him a wry smile back and stifled a laugh, thinking of how ironic that was. Then Clemont entered the library. But Serena was nowhere to be found. Clemont had no knowledge of the secret room. No one did. Except for two people. He scratched his head in bewilderment and searched every corner of the room, for some kind of sign of where his cousin could have disappeared to. Clemont didn't believe in magic at all, always having a very logical and scientific mind. Yet, Serena had somehow vanished into thin air, like a trick of some kind. Clemont was utterly stumped. There was no plausible explanation for it he could think of. There were stained-glass windows, but they didn't open. So there was no way she could have gone outside. He opened the door and called Brock in, wondering if he could help.

'Musketeer, to your knowledge, is there any way at all of exiting this room that isn't through the door?'

Brock shook his head, just as out of ideas as Clemont was.

'No, sir. I have permission to patrol most rooms in the palace, including this one, but I have never seen any other exit.'

'Hmm, that's strange. Very odd indeed,' pondered Clemont.

He thought about it hard for a while, frustrated that he couldn't crack the code, but he eventually admitted defeat. Clemont would have to try and figure out what Serena was hiding some other way. Besides, he had to get back to his little sister and their father for their family dinner. He checked his watch and saw he was going to be late.

'Well, thank you for your assistance, Musketeer. It was nice to meet you.'

Brock bowed and offered to escort Clemont out. But Clemont insisted he was fine leaving the palace by himself, so Brock stayed in the library. He was actually very curious himself now, if there was something in the room he had somehow missed before. And then he noticed the books on the bookshelves. He should have returned to his post, but he was far too inquisitive now. Plus, he was always interested in having a look at some of the books. He figured he'd never really get a good enough chance again, so he decided a quick look wouldn't hurt. Brock was particularly interested in Pokemon medicines and remedies, having always wanted to be a Pokemon doctor, before his dream to be a Musketeer transpired. He flicked through a few books and then found what he was looking for, which just so happened to be a big purple book.
Brock took it out and then the secret spiral staircase appeared before his eyes. He gasped. Brock had to rub his eyes a little, to make sure he wasn't dreaming. But this was very much a reality. He looked around the room, just to make sure no one was watching or Clemont hadn't suddenly returned. Brock shrugged his shoulders and figured he may as well investigate a little. He could quickly go down to check it out and return to his post before anyone would notice. Brock just couldn't walk away from it. He had to see what was down there. Brock would never be able to stop thinking about it otherwise. So he cautiously and very quietly, tiptoed down to the secret room. He drew his sword, just in case there was anyone or anything hostile down there. Then he heard giggling and hushed voices. He prepared himself and flung his sword forward, after he jumped off the last step. It was dark, with only a few candles providing any light.

'Who's there?' said Brock.

He walked further inside and saw a sight that froze him into a statue. His face said it all, though. He couldn't believe his eyes. There. Right in front of him. Was his best friend. Ash. On top of the princess! And they weren't just in that position by accident or pure coincidence. Oh, no. They rolled over onto their sides, while french kissing quite intensely, none the wiser to who was watching them. And Brock didn't even need to see their faces, to know what was going on. Ash's left hand answered that question. It was deep under Serena's dress and having a good squeeze of something underneath.

'What the fu-' said Brock.

Ash and Serena broke apart immediately and turned their heads around. They gasped in shock. They thought this was the one place they could never ever be caught, but the jig was up. Caught red handed in the act. Ash quickly pulled his hand back out of Serena's dress and got up, waving his hands about.

'Uh… It's not what it looks like, Brock! I can explain!' exclaimed Ash.

Brock couldn't even speak for a second and just muttered something. But then he suddenly started laughing. He would never have thought he'd ever see the princess and Ash together like that, but he was actually finding it a bit funny now. Mostly because it was so ridiculously unbelievable. Serena quickly sorted herself out and made herself presentable.

'I mean… I saw enough to see what's going on here. I wasn't born yesterday,' joked Brock.

Ash sighed and just decided to own it now.

'Okay, yeah. We're… er… seeing each other. I admit it. But no one can know, Brock! Not even Gary! Please, if our friendship means anything to you, don't tell a soul!'

Brock chuckled and shook his head, very amused by this all.

'Oh, come on man! I wouldn't do that to you, Ash! It's not my place to tell, anyway. Plus, I wouldn't want to displease you, of course, Your Majesty,' said Brock, looking over to Serena now.
He bowed to her respectfully, despite the bizarre situation he now found himself in.

'So, you won't tell anyone then, Brock?' asked Serena.

'No! Of course not! Your secret's safe with me…'

Ash took a big sigh of relief and chuckled heartily. But Serena was still a little worried.

'But I just have one question! How long has this been going on?'

Ash and Serena quickly looked at each other, looking guilty.

'Umm, well, it only really started after we rescued the princess from Team Rocket,' said Ash, rubbing the back of his neck. 'But we sort of have been meeting up secretly for months now.'

Serena nudged Ash to stop him blabbing out anything else that wasn't necessary to say. Ash got the message, but was actually quite disappointed that he couldn't continue.

'Wow, that long, huh?'
Ash and Serena nodded.

'Well, I'd have never thought a princess would even entertain the idea of frolicking with a commoner in the first place. Let alone actually, willingly wanting to be with him… But you know what? I don't see anything wrong with it! I'm happy for you two! You just have a hell of a job on your hands trying to keep it all a secret…'
Brock frowned in sympathy.

'Oh, I know,' said Ash. 'But I think we can do it. We're determined to make it work. Aren't we, Princess?'

Serena just nodded and didn't really want to talk about it anymore with Brock. Whereas, Ash had been itching to tell his best friend from the very first day he knew Serena felt the same way about him. And it was incredibly hard keeping it from him this whole time. So it was a massive relief to finally be able to say it all out loud. But Serena didn't feel the same way and instead, seeked further reassurance from Brock. Technically, if she really wanted to, she had the power to threaten Brock into guaranteed silence, but it really wasn't in her nature to do that all. Brock was very adamant that he would be true to his word, regardless. Thankfully for Ash and Serena, he was way too loyal and valued his position as a Musketeer enough to not even think about breaking their trust. It may not have been the same story with Gary, however, so it was a good thing it was Brock and not him. In truth, Ash wouldn't mind at all if either would spill the secret for that matter. He wished he could shout it from the palace rooftop himself. But he still respected Brock for sticking to his principles, not just as a Musketeer, but also as a friend. Yet, the whole situation was still a little awkward and no one knew what to say now.

'Well… If you don't mind, Your Majesty, I think I'll return to my post. I'll leave you two to it.'

Brock quickly dismissed himself with a smile and a salute. Ash looked back at Serena with a relieved, but happy look.

'Well… That could have been a lot worse,' said Ash. 'But, we can trust Brock. No need to panic. Now… Where were we?'

Ash grabbed Serena's waist and started kissing her again, but Serena pulled away and shook her head. Ash looked confused.

'What? What's wrong?'

'N-nothing… I'm just not in the mood anymore.'

Ash sighed, a little annoyed now that the interruption happened. Things were just getting good.

'Are you still worried about Brock?'
Serena nodded anxiously.

'It's okay, Serena. Brock and I have known each other since we were kids and he's the best friend I could ask for. He won't tell anyone. I promise.'

Ash picked Serena's hand up and kissed it, but it didn't do much to calm her nerves.

'I know… I'm just still worried he might accidentally say something. Even if he doesn't mean to.'

Ash tried to understand where Serena was coming from, but he was very unbothered by it all.

'And? Even if he does, would it not be better for the burden of keeping the secret to be lifted from our shoulders?'

'No. No it wouldn't! You don't understand. It's not that simple!'

'But Serena, I DO understand! I just don't care what anyone thinks-'

'Well, I do!'

Ash frowned and turned away from Serena, with his arms crossed.

'Okay, now it's starting to sound like you're ashamed of me,' he mumbled under his breath.

'Oh, no! Don't say things that simply aren't true! My Sweet Prince, I- I - You-'

Serena tried to think of the right words to say to stop Ash from jumping to the wrong conclusion. She didn't want to hurt Ash again.

'You're everything to me! I just fear that our relationship may not be able to continue if it becomes public.'
Ash rolled his eyes, but not in anger. Only in frustration, for how paranoid he thought Serena was being. He unfolded his arms and held them out towards Serena in a desperate plea.

'Serena, please...'

Ash tried to embrace her, but Serena moved away.

'I'm sorry, Ash. I still want to be with you. I really do. But I think we just need to be more careful and see each other a little less.'

Ash looked absolutely distraught at the very suggestion of it.
'Oh, no! Don't say that! You know I can barely stand being apart from you, for even a day!'

'I know! Neither can I! It's not just you! I suffer too! But let's not forget that Shauna nearly caught us a week ago.'

'Okay. But she didn't…'

'That's irrelevant, Ash. Because we were caught today. Granted, by someone we can trust. But what if that was someone else who caught us?! They may not have been as understanding as Brock. There are people out there who would be offended by us being together. People who may even wish to break us apart!'

'Yeah, but-'

'No, I'm sorry! But it's just too big a risk! So we have no choice. It's just the way it has to be now, Ash…'

Ash folded his arms and turned away again in a huff, but then Serena started sniffling a little now, so he peered back over at her slowly.

'Oh, no. Please don't cry, Serena. I can't bear to see you like that.'

Unfortunately, that didn't stop the tears streaming down Serena's face. Ash immediately wiped them away.

'Come on now. Why are you crying, beautiful? Please, stop.'

Ash was on the verge of tears himself now, just at the mere sight of seeing his amour so upset, but he held them back to try and comfort her. It was a useless effort, though, because she just kept backing away from him. Serena was creating yet another invisible obstacle between the two of them, when there really was no need for it at all.

'Because! You just deserve so much better! And I can't be what you want me to be. I can't change who I am. So I'd understand if you didn't want to be with me anymore...'

Ash looked disgusted that she would even think that and shook his head defiantly.

'Nonsense! Serena. Listen to me. Please.'

Ash turned her puffy, tear-streaked face towards his and looked deep into her soul. Serena stared back into his, through slightly blurry, tear-filled eyes.

'Read my lips. There's literally no one else that compares to you. You're my one and only. I'll fight for this. 'Till my last breath, if necessary. I want to stay with you forever, whatever the conditions may be.'

Serena truly admired Ash's constant resilience. He was never going to give up on it. Never going to give up on her. She had starry eyes for him now and trembled in awe, becoming intoxicated by his aura. He was so perfect and so magnificently, fully devoted to her. She couldn't understand why, especially because of how complicated she was making their relationship. But it was just the fact that he was anyway, that astounded her so much. More tears began to flow down Serena's face. Ash reached over to the bedside table and got a tissue for her. Serena wiped her eyes dry. She was almost tempted to stop caring about the stupid rules altogether at this moment and just kiss him and tell him that she'll give him everything he wants and deserves now. That she would give him all of her and brave whatever consequences that entailed. Turn forbidden love into just love. Pure, free-flowing, raw love. But her head was too much of a mess right now, so instead, she just quickly hugged him and then ran out of the room suddenly.

'Serena! Where are you going?!' shouted Ash after her.
'I just need some time on my own!'

He got up and considered chasing after. But there was nothing Ash could do right now, so he sat back down. He groaned frustratingly and looked up to the ceiling in anguish. But he was still confident that nothing would change between them. Not now. They were way too deep in to call it quits now. They'd taken too many risks to give up now. Ash just figured Serena needed some time to think and realise what the right thing to do was. And the key thing was, she still wanted to be with him. He just hoped that one day, she could let go of everything completely and finally allow herself to be freely in love and most importantly, happy. And Ash made her happy. Happier than she'd ever been before. So Ash just saw this as a bumpy road along the way, journeying ahead to the promised land of love. And he knew Serena would come back to him eventually, even if it meant he had to wait and wait and wait. But if Serena truly loved him, he figured it could be a lot sooner than he thought. Especially when the big royal masquerade ball was coming up. He saw that as a good opportunity to make her see sense, that they were meant to be, despite her overriding internal battle with herself. It was just a matter of time and patience. Nothing was going to stop it from happening now. It was written in the stars. Le véritable amour ne pourra jamais être vaincu après tout…