Hello everyone~!

I hope you're all having a wonderful Christmas or enjoying your vacation!

To thank you for following the story so far, I thought I'd give you a little gift by revealing some fun details, like the ages of the main characters during the World Grand Contest! I've tried to balance consistency with what I think makes the most sense for the fanfic:

Brock: 19

Kiawe: 17

Ash: 16

Serena: 16

May: 16

Mallow: 16

Dawn: 15

Clemont: 15

Lillie: 15

Lana: 14

Sophocles: 13

Goh: 13

Chloe: 13

Bonnie: 10

More characters will be added in a future post, where I'll include everyone from the arc. While I may adjust some official ages if necessary, most will stay as they are here.

To celebrate the New Year, I'll have an even better gift for you all—so stay tuned!

With that, time for a new chapter!

Ash and Goh watched their pretty friend leave in silence. Ash tilted his head toward Goh, looking concerned. "It's just me, right? Or is something really wrong with Serena?"

Goh's gaze lingered on the way where Serena had disappeared. He frowned slightly, crossing his arms. "No, it's not just you. Something's definitely up."

Ash's shoulders slumped. "..You think I messed up again?"

"Probably. What'd you do this time?"

"I don't know! I cannot stop to make my friends upset today." Ash threw his hands up, his voice tinged with frustration. "I don't think I said anything dumb to Serena. At least, I hope not..."

Pikachu, perched on Ash's shoulder, let out a small sigh, patting Ash's head in a silent gesture of comfort.

"Hey, don't beat yourself up over it," Goh said, nudging Ash's arm lightly. "We all mess up sometimes. Besides, you're only human—or, well, Pikachu's case, Pokemon."

At that, Pikachu shook his head, clearly not wanting to be dragged into the situation. The sight made Ash chuckle, his mood lifting slightly.

"Alright, alright," Ash said, smiling faintly. "I'll figure out a way to fix things. I think I've already got an idea for one of them!"

Goh's curiosity piqued. "Oh yeah? What're you planning?"

Ash glanced below, a spark of determination lighting up his eyes. "Hehe… just wait. You'll see!"

With that, he patted the seat next to him, inviting Goh to sit down.

"Okay, okay!" Goh said with a laugh as he plopped down beside Ash. "This better be good!"

Ash leaned back, watching the stadium as the next performance was about to start. Performances were well underway, but Goh's thoughts were elsewhere. He hesitated, unsure whether to bring up the tension between Serena and Ash—especially since it could maybe be tied to Serena's jealousy over someone like.. Dawn.

The Galar trainer shot a glance at Ash, who was leaning forward, clearly absorbed in the performances.

Better not now, he thought.

However, the announcer's voice suddenly boomed across the arena, snapping both of them back to attention.

"Ladies and gentlemen, from the Kalos region, please welcome our next contestant: Miette!"

Ash blinked, leaning forward in his seat. The name stirred a memory, but it wasn't until the contestant gracefully stepped into the spotlight that recognition fully clicked.

"...Miette?" Ash exclaimed, startled.

Goh turned to him, intrigued. "You know her?"

"Yeah," Ash replied, his voice tinged with surprise. "she's a good friend of Serena. She used to compete in Pokémon Showcases! I didn't know she'd gotten into contests like Serena."

"Guess she has."

Miette strode confidently onto the stage, her sleek cream-colored outfit adorned with candy-like accents catching the lights. Her Alcremie floated beside her, its whipped-cream body gleaming as if it were spun from moonlight.

With a confident flourish, Miette began her performance, her smile bright and unwavering as the spotlight bathed her and Alcremie in an ethereal glow.

"Alcremie, Aromatherapy!"

Alcremie twirled elegantly, its movements precise and fluid, releasing a soft, shimmering mist into the arena. The mist carried a subtle sweetness, like the aroma of freshly baked pastries. The crowd stirred as the scent wafted toward them, some leaning forward in their seats as though drawn by an invisible thread.

From the stands, Ash inhaled deeply. "That smells amazing!" he said, his eyes fixed on the stage.

"Yeah," Goh replied, his voice tinged with awe. "It's like a bakery exploded in here."

Miette pivoted, her cape catching the light as she issued her next command. "Now, Decorate!"

Alcremie spun with dazzling speed, ribbons of cream flying from its body in precise arcs. The dollops morphed mid-air, transforming into intricate shapes: cascading hearts, delicate roses, and shimmering ribbons. Candy-like sparkles glinted within the cream, giving it a jewel-like quality as it floated above the stage. The audience gasped as the decorations began to weave together, forming a canopy of sugary splendor above the battlefield.

Miette's timing was impeccable; she danced alongside Alcremie, her movements synchronized perfectly. It wasn't just a performance—it was a partnership, a duet where trainer and Pokémon were in complete harmony.

The crowd's cheers swelled, their enthusiasm a wave of sound that rippled through the arena.

"Sweet Kiss!" Miette called, her voice ringing with confidence.

Alcremie leapt into the air, its pastel-colored mist trailing behind it like a comet's tail. Heart-shaped waves of energy erupted outward, cascading across the stage. The glowing hearts floated serenely for a moment before bursting into radiant fragments, the shimmering pieces raining down like confetti and mingling with the sugary decor above. The effect was surreal, transforming the stage into a dreamscape.

But Miette wasn't finished yet. She raised her hand high, her voice steady and commanding. "Alcremie, Hidden Power—Water! Combine it with Decorate and Misty Terrain!"

The arena fell silent, anticipation thick in the air as Alcremie gathered its strength. Glowing orbs of water formed around the Fairy Pokémon, their surfaces glimmering with refracted light. As the water spun faster, the remnants of the cream above the stage merged with it, creating a whirlpool of radiant sweetness.

With a final twirl, Alcremie released the Hidden Power. The orbs burst outward, their watery essence mixing with the mist from Misty Terrain. A cascading wave of glittering cream flowed across the stage, coating it in an elegant, glossy sheen that shimmered under the spotlights. The terrain beneath Alcremie glowed softly, the colors shifting between pink and lavender, enhancing the ethereal atmosphere. The fusion of moves was seamless—water, cream, and mist blending so naturally that it felt like magic.

The crowd erupted into thunderous applause, but the spectacle wasn't over. The creamy terrain seemed to come alive, rising in elegant, swirling peaks and forming intricate patterns across the battlefield. It was as if the entire arena had been transformed into a lavish dessert paradise.

Marian, the seasoned MC, was visibly stunned. Her eyes were wide as she leaned closer to the microphone. "Ladies and gentlemen, what we've just witnessed is nothing short of extraordinary! Combining two moves naturally can take years of practice for even the most skilled Pokémon Coordinators. But three? That level of precision and creativity is something only the most exceptional Coordinators in the world can achieve—even among the top echelon!"

Before the audience's cheers could fully overtake the arena, Monsieur Pierre's smooth, authoritative voice chimed in, adding an analytical flair to the moment. "Ah, but of course!" he declared, his tone rich with admiration. "Miette's brilliance lies not only in her coordination but in her unique background. As a skilled pastry chef, she understands the delicate balance of blending ingredients—flavors, textures, and aromas—to create a masterpiece. What we have witnessed here is, in essence, the same principle applied to battle artistry."

He gestured toward the cream-coated battlefield with a flourish. "Think of it as a form of alchemy, mes amis. The Hidden Power acts as the liquid base—much like water or cream in baking—providing flow and mobility. Decorate, with its rich, sweet dollops of cream, is akin to folding in flavor and texture, ensuring the substance binds elegantly. And Misty Terrain? Ah, the pièce de résistance! The mist acts as the stabilizing agent, creating an environment where all elements harmonize flawlessly, like emulsifying oil and water to make the perfect ganache!"

The crowd murmured in awe, many nodding in agreement as Pierre's explanation added depth to the spectacle they'd just witnessed. His comparison to baking struck a chord, illuminating the complexity of Miette's approach in a way that resonated with both casual spectators and coordinators. Even the judges seemed taken aback, exchanging impressed glances as they jotted down their scores.

Marian, regaining her composure, smiled and added, "Beautifully put, Monsieur Pierre. Indeed, Miette's performance was not just a showcase of skill but also of artistry and ingenuity, seamlessly blending her passions into something truly magical!"

In the crowd, Ash was transfixed, his mouth slightly agape. "That was... insane," he murmured. His stomach growled faintly, breaking his awestruck silence. "All that cream… it kinda makes me hungry!"

Pikachu turned to him with a glare, its cheeks sparking faintly in exasperation.

"What?" Ash asked innocently, rubbing the back of his head. "It looked delicious! I know you're secretly drooling too, Pikachu!"

Pikachu shot him a deadpan glare, its cheeks sparking in light warning. It hopped onto Ash's knees, giving him a firm nudge.

"Okay, okay! I stop, I swear !" Ash chuckled, raising his hands.

On the stage, Miette bowed deeply, her Alcremie mimicking her with a graceful twirl. The cream-coated battlefield gleamed like a masterpiece, the lingering mist giving the scene an otherworldly glow.

Marian raised her voice once more, her tone still tinged with astonishment. "What an absolutely breathtaking performance by Miette and her Alcremie! A dazzling display of skill, artistry, and synchronization. Now, let's see how the judges score this unforgettable routine!"

As the spotlight dimmed slightly to highlight the judges, the crowd's applause swelled again, their excitement reaching a fever pitch. Miette stood tall in the center of her sugar-spun wonderland, almost tempted to take a bite.

The camera panned to the judges, who revealed their scores one by one.

"9!" Marian announced as the first judge raised their paddle, the crowd responding with an approving roar.

The second judge followed with another 9.

Ash blinked in surprise. "Whoa, back-to-back nines already?"

Pikachu tilted its head, equally curious.

The third judge's score paddle came up: a perfect 10.

Goh leaned forward, his eyes widening. "A ten? That's huge!"

"And the fourth judge… another 10?!" Marian's voice rose with excitement.

Ash gasped, gripping the edge of his seat. "What?! Even better than May's score ?"

Pikachu's cheeks sparked in shock as it let out a small squeak.

Finally, the last judge raised their paddle—a 10.

Marian's voice boomed through the stadium. "Miette's total score is an outstanding 48 points! One of the highest of the day !"

Ash's expression softened as he watched. "It's funny, though," he said quietly.

"What is?" Goh asked, distracted by the thunderous applause still echoing through the stadium.

Ash didn't respond immediately, his eyes glued to Miette as she waved confidently to the crowd, her Alcremie by her side. He shook his head with a wry smile. "This World Contest is gonna be really surprising! I didn't expect her to grow this much as coordinator. If all of our friends's rivals are like this… it's gonna to be really interesting!"

Goh nodded slowly, still processing what he'd seen. "Yeah… If she's scoring higher than May, this contest's level is insane."

Ash leaned back, his expression shifting into one of excitement rather than concern. "But that just makes it more fun, right? The tougher the competition, the more everyone will shine when they pull through!"

Goh grinned, his enthusiasm catching up. "True. Let's just hope they can match up to scores like that if they qualify."

Ash clapped his hands together, a familiar spark of determination lighting up his face. "They will. I know they will. They all surely have something that will surprise us!"

Pikachu let out a confident "Pika!" in agreement, its cheeks crackling faintly with energy.

As the stadium bustled in preparation for the next performance, Ash leaned back in his seat, still grinning from the energy of the contest so far. The lively atmosphere seemed to spark an old thought, and he turned to Goh with an easy smile.

"What's the biggest difference in your life now, compared to a few years ago when we were traveling together?" he asked, his tone as casual as ever but tinged with genuine curiosity.

Goh paused, considering the question. A lot had changed for him. He wasn't the same boy who once hesitated to approach others or doubted his place in the world. The years had been kind, filled with growth, challenges, and accomplishments that built him into someone more confident and assured.

"A lot's changed," Goh admitted, a small, reflective smile forming on his face. "I've become more social, caught so many new Pokémon, and I finally started working on my dream research project."

"You mean the one about Mew, or something else?" Ash asked, tilting his head in curiosity.

"Oh, I'm still invested about my Mew research," Goh replied, a spark of excitement lighting his eyes. Then, with a sly grin, he added, "But there's also another project I've been working on. It's still a secret, though!"

Ash's interest piqued instantly, his expression brightening. "Oho? You're not gonna tell me anything about it?"

"Not yet. It's way too early to talk about," Goh teased, his grin widening as he leaned back.

Ash puffed his cheeks, feigning indignation. "C'mon, not even a little hint?"

"Sorry, man. It's classified!" Goh replied, crossing his arms dramatically.

Despite his playful front, Goh felt a flicker of nervousness. The project was still in its early stages, and he hadn't even secured approval from Professor Cerise yet. He wasn't ready to spill the details, even to someone as close as Ash. But he couldn't resist dropping just enough to spark curiosity.

Leaning closer, Goh glanced around as if ensuring no one else could hear. "Fine, I'll give you one hint." he whispered. "It involves ancient Pokémon. Ones discovered alive."

Ash's eyes widened, practically glowing with excitement. "Whoa! That sounds awesome! Where'd you find them? Tell me more!"

"Nope, that's all you're getting!" Goh chuckled, leaning back smugly.

Ash groaned, throwing up his hands. "Pfft, party pooper!"

Goh laughed, shaking his head. "You'll survive. For now, let's just focus on the contest. And maybe, if you're lucky, you'll be the first I tell when it's ready to share."

Ash pouted playfully but didn't press further. "Fine. But don't forget you promised!"

"I won't!" Goh replied, nudging Ash's shoulder with his elbow, unable to resist teasing his friend. Ash's exaggerated annoyance only made him laugh harder.

The contest continued, with each coordinator taking their turn to showcase their skills and creativity. The stage transformed with every performance—a kaleidoscope of colors, lights, and Pokémon combinations that kept the crowd cheering. Ash and Goh commented on each routine, their conversation flowing as effortlessly through discoveries and anecdotes about the new Pokemons they encountered along the way during their travels..

But then, something went wrong.

Suddenly, the display took a darker turn when a performance didn't go as planned and, at the same time, injured the coordinator on the stage after the combination of two moves. This dramatic error resulted in the Claydol losing control of the Psychic, which caused the coordinator to fall to the ground heavily.

"What just happened?" Goh's voice broke the silence, his wide eyes darting between the shock of the Pokemon and the now-still Robert.

Ash's face tightened with concern as he leaned forward. "Robert…" he murmured, his voice heavy with recognition.

"Huh? Do you know him?"

Ash kept his gaze on the stage, his voice quieter but filled with reverence. "Robert's not just any Coordinator—he's one of the best of his region. Back when I traveled in Hoenn, he even won the Grand Festival there. People looked up to him, even Wallace."

"Wallace? The Wallace?" Goh's eyebrows shot up.

Ash nodded. "Yeah. If anyone could match Wallace in Hoenn, it's Robert. That's why this is such a big deal. For someone like him to mess up—and get hurt—it's... shocking."

Goh frowned, watching as Robert struggled to sit up. "Do you think his career could take a hit from this?"

Ash hesitated, his expression shadowed with uncharacteristic solemnity. "It's possible. Contests are about more than just skill—they're about mental, about the connection between a Coordinator and their Pokémon. Something like this… a traumatic event can change everything. He took serious damage there."

The stadium held its breath as Robert rose to his feet, wincing but determined. Claydol floated close, its many eyes watching its trainer with concern. Robert placed a hand on its side, using it for support as he hobbled toward the exit.

Ash sat back, his expression pensive. "A career can change in a moment." he said quietly, more to himself than anyone else. "No matter how great you are, one big mistake can shake everything. It's not just about winning—it's about how you pick yourself up after something like this."

Goh glanced at him, surprised by the mature insight. "That's… I didn't expect you to be this serious."

Ash smiled faintly, though his eyes remained on the stage. "When you care about something as much as Robert cares about contests, it's hard not to think about what it means to lose it. I hope he'll be okay. It would be a shame if his body or his mind prevented him from keeping up in the contest world."

Ash's gaze shifted to the stage, where preparations for the next performance were underway. His eyes softened, and his thoughts began to wander.

I've seen so many people fight for what they love—trainers, coordinators, rivals, friends. And I know one thing: no matter how hard it gets, some people always find a way to keep going. But when a dream can only end for this type of people.. how will they overcome that?

The sun dipped lower, its golden light fading into a deep purple as the stadium lights illuminated the field. The crowd buzzed softly, still shaken from the earlier incident but eager to see what came next.

Goh noticed the next contestant stepping onto the stage, her silhouette strikingly familiar. "Hey," he said, nudging Ash. "That looks like…" His voice trailed off as recognition dawned on him. His eyes widened.

The announcer's voice confirmed his suspicions as Marian's voice echoed across the stadium.

"And now, from the Sinnoh region, please welcome our next contestant: Dawn!"

"It's Dawn's turn!" Goh exclaimed, nudging Ash, who was already leaning forward with a grin.

The spotlight revealed Dawn, her outfit glittering like starlight. She radiated confidence as she waved to the crowd, her Piplup at her side.

Ash perked up, his earlier somber expression lifting slightly. "Speaking of people who keep going… I was wondering when she'd show up! If anyone can bring the contest energy back after something like that, it's her."

Goh glanced between Ash and the stage. Dawn's appearance reminded him of the awkward tension from earlier that morning. He hadn't had the chance to ask Ash about it yet, and now didn't feel like the right time either. For now, he decided to focus on her performance.

On stage, Dawn radiated her usual confidence, her blue hair catching the stadium lights as she waved to the cheering audience. Beside her stood Piplup, puffing out its chest proudly, ready to dazzle the crowd.

As the applause began to fade, Ash leaned back with a thoughtful grin, his eyes never leaving the stage. "I think it's time…" he murmured cryptically.

"It is," Goh agreed, leaning forward in anticipation. "I wonder what kind of performance she'll pull off."

The arena fell silent, save for the hum of anticipation. All eyes were on Dawn and Piplup as they prepared to start, their movements poised and confident under the spotlight. It had been a long time since Ash and Goh had seen her perform, and both of them were eager to see what she had in store.

The lights dimmed, and an expectant hush fell over the stadium as the announcer's voice rang out.

"And now, from the Sinnoh region, please welcome our next contestant: Dawn!"

The stage was bathed in soft blue and pink lights, evoking the colors of dawn itself. Slowly, Dawn stepped into the spotlight, her gown catching the illumination and transforming it into a breathtaking display of cosmic brilliance. Her sleek folded ponytail swayed gently as she walked, her pearls glinting like fairy orbs above her ears. Beside her, Piplup waddled with its characteristic confidence, puffing its chest proudly.

Dawn paused at the center of the stage, taking in the roaring applause and gasps of admiration. She could feel the energy of the crowd, the expectation, the weight of the moment. A faint but determined smile curved her lips.

"This isn't just about shut them up," she thought, glancing down at Piplup, who chirped encouragingly. "this is about showing the world who I am—who we are."

She raised her hand in a graceful arc, signaling the start of their performance. The audience quieted, leaning forward in anticipation.

"Piplup, Bubblebeam!"

The little penguin Pokémon leaped into the air, spinning rapidly as it released a flurry of glittering bubbles. The orbs sparkled under the stage lights, creating a curtain of luminescent spheres that surrounded Dawn and Piplup like a celestial veil.

With practiced precision, Dawn stepped forward, her heels clicking softly against the polished surface of the stage. As if on cue, the bubbles began to pop in rhythmic succession, each burst creating a delicate echo that danced through the arena.

"Whirlpool!" Dawn commanded, her voice steady yet filled with an unmistakable passion.

Piplup landed nimbly and spun on one foot, unleashing a torrent of water that spiraled upward in a dazzling vortex. The Whirlpool expanded, its forceful currents scattering the remaining bubbles and soaking the field in a shimmering layer of water. A part of the stage transformed into a reflective pool, the lights above refracting off its surface to cast waves of rippling brilliance across the stadium walls.

Dawn moved gracefully, the water pooling around her feet. Her gown, seemingly impervious to the liquid, shimmered with an almost otherworldly sheen as droplets slid off its surface. She began to twirl, each step sending delicate splashes outward in perfect synchronization with the ripples caused by Piplup's Whirlpool. The echoes of water and movement melded together, creating a hauntingly beautiful symphony.

As Dawn danced, she extended her arms, her gauntlets catching the light and scattering faint rainbows across the water. Piplup mirrored her movements, sliding effortlessly across the stage as if skating on ice. The little Pokémon spun and leapt, its tiny wings flapping to create small bursts of water that added to the intricate choreography.

"Now, Piplup, Bubblebeam again—but this time, keep it low!" Dawn called, her voice cutting through the rhythmic splashes.

Piplup obeyed, releasing another stream of bubbles that hovered just above the water's surface. Dawn began a series of fluid, almost ethereal movements that guided the bubbles toward her. She pivoted sharply, her gown swirling, and with a sudden, dramatic stomp, sent a small wave across the water that popped the bubbles around in a cascading burst of light.

The audience gasped, captivated by the interplay of Dawn's elegance and Piplup's precise execution. The climax was building, and Dawn could feel it.

The shimmering water mirrored the lights of the stadium, casting ethereal reflections of Dawn and Piplup.

"Piplup, Whirlpool—center stage!"

Piplup leapt high, its small body spinning with precision as it summoned a powerful Whirlpool. The spiraling vortex of water surged upward, creating a towering, fluid column that shimmered under the dazzling lights. Dawn, standing at the base of the Whirlpool, moved with poise and confidence. The soaked stage reflected the swirling water and her dress, giving the illusion that she was part of the currents, a prestigious figure dancing amidst the cosmos.

The force of the attack expanded the spiraling water, sending shimmering droplets outward in a stunning cascade. The fine mist created an iridescent veil around Dawn, framing her like a celestial vision.

With perfect timing, Dawn raised an arm and spun, the droplets refracting the arena lights into a dazzling spectrum of colors. The crowd gasped at the sight, the interplay of light and water transforming the stage into a radiant, dreamlike scene.

Piplup descended gracefully, landing on the edge of the still-spinning Whirlpool. With one final surge of energy, it sent a concentrated Hydro Pump straight into the vortex. But instead of hitting Dawn or the field directly, the attack was carefully aimed to funnel through the Whirlpool's center. The force expanded the water outward in a stunning cascade, sending shimmering arcs of liquid across the stage. Dawn stood beneath the dome of falling water, her dress refracting the light into radiant hues, as if she were crowned by the rain itself.

The water pooled across the field, creating a shimmering mirror that perfectly reflected the stadium lights. The Whirlpool subsided, leaving behind a tranquil, glistening surface that amplified the beauty of Dawn's final pose. She stood tall at the center, arms raised in triumph, as Piplup took its place by her side, letting out a victorious cry.

The crowd erupted into applause, their cheers echoing through the arena. The entire stadium seemed transformed into a dreamscape, with Dawn and Piplup at its heart. For Dawn, this was more than a performance—it was a declaration. She was not just a competitor but an artist, a force to be reckoned with in the contest world.

As the applause roared around her, she took a deep bow, her reflection shimmering on the water-covered stage beneath her. Piplup mimicked her, chirping proudly, as if to say : This is who we are.

Dawn felt the weight of it, her chest swelling with both pride and relief. Her breath came in quick bursts as she stood, momentarily dazed by the intensity of the performance and the crowd's reaction. It had been everything she'd hoped for, and yet her heart raced with an undercurrent of uncertainty—an uneasiness that lingered in the quiet spaces between the applause.

Dawn and Piplup stood center stage, their matching bows drawing an uproar of applause from the crowd. The sound was deafening, a thunderous wave of appreciation that swept over them like a high tide. Dawn held the pose for a few seconds longer, savoring the adrenaline coursing through her veins before straightening up.

She took a moment to catch her breath, glancing down at the shimmering water pooling around her feet from her performance. Yet, despite the euphoria of the moment, a tiny voice whispered in her mind..

Did I do enough?

Her breathing was shallow, and despite the smile she wore, her mind was already replaying every second of the routine, searching for imperfections she feared might cost them in the final score.

She needed a moment to collect herself before talking to Marian or the judges, to clear the haze of fatigue. With a quick glance at Piplup, who was beaming proudly beside her, Dawn began to walk around the edge of the field.

Each step sent small splashes outward, the droplets catching the light like scattered diamonds against the encroaching twilight.

The world was shifting from day to night, a transformation as delicate as her own emotions. Dawn's gaze momentarily lifted to the horizon, the faint purples and oranges of sunset fading into a deep indigo sky, before returning to the crowd.

It was automatic—something she had learned to do: greeting the crowd, acknowledging their support. But her thoughts, heavy with the exhaustion of her performance, were elsewhere. Each step created small splashes that mirrored her swirling thoughts. The reflection beneath her seemed fragmented—ripples distorting her image much like the doubts lingering in her mind.

Did I mess up during that twirl? Was the timing on the Whirlpool off by half a second?

The uncertainty gnawed at her, a familiar but unwelcome companion in the aftermath of every performance. As she walked, she replayed the routine in her head, dissecting every move, every command, and every reaction.

Was that transition too awkward? Could I have timed the last flourish better?

Her smile tightened just a fraction as she greeted spectators along the way.

The crystal-clear reflections on the water beneath her seemed distorted now, the rippling surface casting wavering images of her uncertainty. She couldn't shake the nagging thought that she might have missed perfection by a hair. Dawn clenched her fists lightly, willing herself to focus.

I shouldn't think like this now.

We did our best... That's all that matters.

Bom.

The sound barely registered at first, muffled under the lingering cheers of the crowd. Dawn dismissed it, her focus still split between her own thoughts and the faces of the audience as she passed, smiling and waving automatically.

Bom. Bom.

That one made her pause. It wasn't the usual sound that accompanied such events—this was different. It was harsh, perhaps even a little ungainly, but the oddity of it caught her attention. Dawn turned her head instinctively, searching for the source of this ruckus among the crowd.

Bom bom bom.

Her gaze lifted, scanning the stands. Among the spectators, she spotted the source: a figure wielding a drumstick like an amateur rocker. Dawn blinked in disbelief.

Seriously? Who gave that guy a drum?

Her gaze drifted upward, and there, in the stands, she finally saw it. A figure—an idiot, no less—was banging on a drum with wild abandon. Dawn couldn't help but sigh. This wasn't what she expected at such a prestigious event. The drum's chaotic sound was not in tune with the refined elegance of the contest, but she couldn't deny the strange effect it had on her.

Dawn's eyes locked onto the culprit—Ash, of course. He was the one creating this noise, and to her surprise, she felt a small smile tug at her lips. Even in the midst of her doubt, he had managed to stand out, to make his presence known in the loudest, most ridiculous way possible.

She blinked, her breath catching. Goh sat beside him, face buried in his hands, clearly mortified as the makeshift percussion performance garnered attention from the surrounding spectators. There Ash was, in the middle of the crowd, grinning like he didn't have a care in the world. His Pikachu stood beside him, gleefully assisting with its tiny paws.

Dawn's lips parted in astonishment. Her initial irritation—Of course, it's him—quickly gave way to something warmer. What on earth is he doing? she thought, shaking her head. Ash's voice rose above the cacophony, unbothered by the stares of onlookers.

His movements were wild, free, a stark contrast to the meticulous choreography that had filled the stage just moments ago. He was pounding on a drum with all the finesse of a rampaging Tauros.

Around them, spectators snickered and whispered, some even laughing outright at the clumsy display. Dawn could hear the faint mocking tones from below, but they didn't touch her. If anything, they melted into the background.

Her eyes stayed locked on Ash. For all the ridiculousness of his impromptu performance, something about it stirred her. Instead of irritation or embarrassment, she felt something comforting—a tug at her heart that she couldn't ignore. Ash's drumming was a disaster by any standard, but it was him. Raw, unpolished, and utterly genuine. It didn't matter to him that people were laughing or shaking their heads. He wasn't playing for them. He was playing for her.

And then he shouted her name.

"Dawn!"

His tone on her name was unrestrained and unpolished, yet unmistakably earnest.. like a gentle breeze before striking her like a spark with startling clarity.

"You were right! It was truly a top-one performance, Dawn!"

Ash's voice cut through the noise like a lifeline, reaching the Sinnoh coordinator even from a distance.

The words hit Dawn like a tidal wave, washing away every doubt and hesitation that had weighed her down moments before. Her automatic smile melted into something raw, something real.

There was something more sincere, more personal, in the way he said her name, almost as if he was shouting it from the depths of his heart. It wasn't just a cheer from the stands. That simple phrase carried a weight that struck her in ways she hadn't expected, breaking slowly the fog of doubt that had clouded her mind.

It was that same voice from years ago, encouraging her when she doubted herself, reminding her that she could still shine even in her darkest moments. It pulled her back to simpler times—to the warmth of their friendship, to days when things weren't so complicated.

The drumbeat shifted. No longer a chaotic clatter, it found rhythm in her heart, syncing with the unsteady beat inside her chest. She couldn't help but laugh softly, her smile curving in a way that felt so effortless, so real.

The drumbeat quickened, each strike echoing louder than the last.

It wasn't perfection—it wasn't even close. But somehow, it was exactly what she needed right now.

It's not just noise she realized. It's him.

Her chest tightened with a mix of emotions she couldn't name—dominated by nostalgia. For years, she'd told herself she didn't need anyone to prop her up, that she could carry the weight of expectations alone. But now, hearing his voice rise above the chaos, she understood how much she had missed being truly seen by people who mattered to her.

Her feet hesitated, just for a moment, as if some part of her wanted to hold onto this fleeting connection a little longer. The judges were waiting, the stage lights still hot on her back, but her gaze remained fixed on him.

Bom bom bom.

And then, without thinking, she acted.

Before the blue-haired girl knew what she was doing, her body moved on its own, overcome with a playful, childlike joy she hadn't felt in years. She leaned back slightly, letting her arms rise above her head. Her hands came together, forming a heart that she directed toward the stands where Ash stood. Her expression radiated across the side of the arena.

The gesture was so spontaneous, so full of unfiltered emotion, that it startled even her.

A single wink followed, brimming with mischief and gratitude—a gesture that said "thank you" and "I see you" all at once.

Her gesture caught the attention of the crowd, but Dawn barely noticed. Her mind was focused on the boy in the stands who had been cheering her on with such unrestrained enthusiasm.

Ash, mid-beat, paused briefly, blinking in surprise at her gesture. And then, with a grin as bright as hers, he resumed drumming, his laughter echoing faintly through the stadium.

Bom bom bom!

Dawn turned her back to the stands, her steps deliberate and measured as she crossed once again the clear-soaked field. The drumbeats followed her every move, every splashes.. their imperfect rhythm mirroring the syncopated beat of her own heart.

Each bom was a wonderful reminder of what truly mattered—It wasn't perfect, but it didn't need to be proud.

The stage lights glimmered off the shimmering field as Dawn finally approached Marian, the beloved host of the contest, who was bustling with excitement. Her impeccable dress sparkled as she adjusted her microphone and hurriedly moved toward Dawn, her voice still buzzing with the energy of her previous commentary with and the other judges.

"Well, Dawn," Marian began, extending the microphone toward the young coordinator, "your performance has certainly left everyone in awe! From the judges to the audience, everyone was mesmerized by the natural beauty you created. Many expected you to rely on an Ice-type move to enhance the water's visuals, but you surprised us all by letting the water itself—and your moves with Piplup—take center stage." She gestured to the field, where the reflective surface of the water still glistened under the stadium lights. "Not to mention the sheer scale of those Whirlpools. How did such a small Pokémon pull off such a massive feat and flood the entire stage—even to your feet?"

Dawn smiled brightly, brushing a loose strand of hair back into place as Piplup chirped proudly beside her. "That was exactly the goal," she explained, her tone filled with determination and pride. "We aimed to cover the field with just two Whirlpools to amplify the reflections and movements during our performance. But it wasn't just about the size or power of a single move—it was about expressing ourselves in a way that showcased each technique while fulfilling its purpose to evenly flood the stage. It took a lot of careful planning.""

She glanced at Piplup, who was now puffing out its chest in triumph. "Of course," she added with a chuckle, "if this had been a double performance, Piplup wouldn't have had the time or energy to pull off something so demanding. It's really exhausting for a Pokémon to create and sustain that level of power and precision."

Monsieur Pierre nodded approvingly, his hands coming together in applause. "Piplup's precision in that final move was nothing short of remarkable. The Hydro Pump didn't just enhance the Whirlpool; it acted like a magician's trick—placing you at the center without letting the water overpower or obscure you. It was as if you were crowned by the very element you commanded."

Marian laughed, waving a hand. "Alright, alright, let's hold off on the extended discussion. Time is of the essence, and we still need to see your score!"

The overhead screen shimmered to life once again, instantly commanding the attention of everyone in the stadium. A soft chime heralded the appearance of the first score, which lit up the display in bold clarity: 9.

The second number followed almost immediately: 10.

Excitement swelled as a pocket of fans—likely from Sinnoh—sprang to their feet in celebration on the screen. Their cheers were unrestrained, and a young boy wearing a homemade Piplup hat waved his arms so wildly that his friends had to steady him before he tumbled over. Thankfully, we avoided drama this time.

The third number, another 9, appeared with a measured pause. This time, the reaction was more subdued but no less significant. A wave of murmurs spread through the stands as tension began to build. Approval mixed with suspense, and spectators leaned forward in their seats, as though trying to will the next score onto the screen.

Then came the fourth number: 10.

The stadium erupted. Applause reverberated like rolling thunder, shaking the air with sheer intensity. Banners waved high, and even the quieter corners of the arena couldn't resist joining the uproar.

Finally, the fifth and final score revealed itself: 9.

For a brief, electrifying moment, the entire stadium seemed to hold its breath. Then, with an audible exhale from the crowd around her, the total score burst onto the screen in bold, dazzling letters: 47 POINTS.

Gasps of awe gave way to an avalanche of cheers and applause that rippled outward in waves, cascading over the stands and carrying with it the shared thrill of Dawn's success.

Dawn gasped audibly, her hands flying to her face as Piplup leaped into the air with an excited cry. "We did it, Piplup!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with relief and joy. "We're moving on to the next round!" Her smile widened, and she clutched Marian's microphone impulsively. "Thank you so much to everyone who supported me—Mom, you have to come watch when you can!"

Marian pulled the microphone back gently, stifling a nervous laugh. "That's wonderful, Dawn, but we need to clear the stage so the next coordinator can have their turn. The field crew's going to need a moment to drain all that water of this field. "

Realizing her enthusiasm was holding up the show, Dawn sheepishly stuck her tongue out. "Oops! Sorry!" She gave a quick wave to the audience and darted off the field, skipping with excitement as she headed back into the corridor.

The radiant coordinator could hear Monsieur Pierre reassure everyone on the stadium. "Fortunately, the system is well made and we have other grounds in reserve for this kind of situation! Honestly, a lot of work goes to these background artists and engineers who allow the contest to run so efficiently today!"

Once in the hallway, the rush of applause and stadium noise faded, leaving Dawn alone with Piplup. She spun on her heels, clasping her hands together as her joy bubbled over. "Can you believe it, Piplup? We're really doing it!"

"Pipluuup!" her partner cried, hopping up and down in celebration.

Dawn considered heading to change out of her dress but found herself too exhilarated to sit still. "We have to go tell the others!" she said, already skipping toward the participants' lounge.

From the direction of the stage, Marian's voice carried down the halls, her energetic announcement booming. "Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting for is almost here! Just a little longer, and we'll reveal today's top sixteen!" She chuckled, her tone playfully conspiratorial. "Finally! It's about time, isn't it?"

Dawn couldn't help but laugh at Marian's humor, especially as it resonated with the exhausting yet thrilling day they'd all experienced. "Let's go, Piplup," she whispered, her heart pounding with anticipation. She could already imagine hearing her name among the finalists.

And as the tension built across the stadium, one thought surged through her mind: she was living the dream she had cherished since she was a little girl.

The World Grand Contest was truly within reach.