Jessie's frustration was palpable as she glared at the massive screen displaying the final rankings of the contest. Her arms were crossed, and her foot tapped rapidly against the floor.
"How.." she hissed through gritted teeth, "..can I have lost against even that child?!"
James and Meowth exchanged nervous glances. They had been bracing for this outburst, knowing full well that Jessie's pride in her performances often bordered on obsession.
"Jessie, please," James began cautiously, "even if you didn't qualify, you were absolutely spectacular out there!"
"Yeah!" Meowth chimed in, nodding enthusiastically. "You really wowed the crowd, believe us!"
Jessie didn't respond immediately. Her piercing gaze remained fixed on the screen, her lips pursed in thought.
"Jessie…?" James ventured again, his voice tinged with apprehension.
Suddenly, Jessie's demeanor shifted. Her expression softened, and a sly smile crept across her face. "You're right," she said, pointing dramatically at the screen. "Look again!"
James and Meowth leaned in, squinting at the rankings displayed.
"Jessielina… 19th?" Meowth read aloud, his tail twitching in confusion.
Jessie's eyes sparkled with pride. "Exactly! I'm in the top 20 of the most beautiful and prestigious women in the world! Do you know what that means?"
James hesitated, unsure of where she was going with this. "Uh… no?"
"It means," Jessie declared, striking a dramatic pose, "that I am a beacon of elegance and sophistication! If I were younger, I would have *easily* taken the top spot. But of course, the judges are biased. They favor youth over true maturity and originality. It's a disgusting world, full of judges blinded by a corrupted vision of beauty!"
Meowth opened his mouth to protest, "But Jessie, there are people older than you who—"
James quickly clapped a hand over Meowth's mouth, laughing nervously. "W-Who didn't come anywhere near your level, Jessie! You're absolutely fabulous!"
Jessie nodded, satisfied with this response. "I know!" she added loftily. "But thank you for acknowledging the truth, James. At least one of men has some sense."
James and Meowth exchanged another wary glance but ultimately seemed relieved that the storm had passed.
Jessie clapped her hands together, her tone shifting to one of resolve. "Now, enough dwelling on the past! It's time to focus on serious business!"
Inside the coordinator lounge, Serena stood near Shauna, her heart sinking as she saw the despondent look on her friend's face. The screen still displayed Shauna's name in 17th place, just shy of qualifying for the next round.
Shauna's shoulders slumped, and her eyes remained fixed on the screen. Her Flabébé hovered near her, visibly concerned about its trainer's mood.
"I missed qualifying by just a hair…" Shauna muttered, her voice barely audible over the noise of the crowd. Slowly, she turned away from the screen and began walking aimlessly, her movements listless.
"Shauna?" Serena called gently, taking a step toward her.
Shauna stopped but didn't turn around. "Oh man… I thought I was going to do better than this." she said, her tone heavy with disappointment. "I mean, you and Miette… you both made such an impression. And me? I just…"
She tried to smile, but it came out crooked and forced. "Once again, I wasn't good enough."
Serena's chest tightened at the sight of her friend's pain. "Shauna, don't be so hard on yourself," she said, her voice soft and reassuring.
May, who had been standing nearby, stepped forward. "Serena's right !" she said warmly. "Your performance was beautiful. You shouldn't let one result define your worth. Beside, you were one point away from succeeding!"
Shauna shook her head, her gaze dropping to the ground. "But I did my very best, and it still wasn't enough. For a Showcase Performer to get eliminated in a performance trial like this… it means something."
Serena took a deep breath, her heart aching for her friend. "This isn't the end, Shauna.." she said with quiet determination. "There will be other contests, other showcases. You're only going to get better from here, I know it."
Shauna's lips trembled, and for a moment, it looked as though she might cry. But she quickly composed herself, forcing another smile. "I want to believe you," she said, her voice quivering. "I really do. But… I just can't anymore. Sorry, Serena. I don't want to drag you down with me. This is a big day for you, after all. I shouldn't waste it with my complaints."
She turned away again, her Flabébé hovering protectively near her. "It's the rule of contests." she said with a hollow laugh. "When you're eliminated, it's game over. Complaining is useless.. I'll just have to cheer you on from the stands..."
"Shauna, wait..!" Serena called after her.
Shauna paused, glancing over her shoulder with a small, pained smile. "Thanks, Serena. I appreciate your worries but.. Really, I just.. want go somewhere else."
With that, she walked off with her pokemon, disappearing from her view.
Serena stood frozen for a moment, her hands clenched at her sides. She felt a pang of helplessness, knowing she couldn't ease Shauna's pain.
"She was so close…" May said quietly, her expression mirroring Serena's concern.
Serena nodded, her eyes still fixed on the spot where Shauna had vanished. "I need to go," she said suddenly, her voice firm.
May smiled knowingly. "Definitely. She needs your support right now. See you later!"
Serena waved to May before hurrying off in the direction Shauna had gone.
Meanwhile, Dawn stood nearby with Chloe, who had been engrossed in her phone for most of the conversation.
"Later?" Dawn asked, tilting her head.
"Oh, you didn't notice your messages? We're planning a party tonight to celebrate! You're coming, right?"
Dawn's face lit up. "Of course! That sounds amazing!"
Then, she turned to Chloe, who had just looked up from her phone, blinking in surprise.
"Oh? Uh… yeah, I think so?" Chloe said, her voice uncertain.
"Come on, Chloe. It'll be fun!" Dawn laughed as Chloe managed a small smile.
"Alright, alright. I'm in."
The coordinators' lounge no longer lacked space for coordinators to mingle, some basking in their victories while others planned for the rounds ahead. Elegant chandeliers lit the room with a warm glow, their golden light reflecting off polished marble floors. The atmosphere carried a mix of friendly rivalry and determined focus, creating a symphony of conversations and tensions.
Drew approached May with his signature confident smirk, his Roserade perched gracefully on the bench. He casually flipped his hair, a gesture as much a habit as it was a deliberate move to flaunt his charm.
"Great job, May." Drew said, his voice smooth but with an edge of teasing. "You've set the bar high... even if it wasn't enough to surpass me."
May turned toward him, hands on her hips, her sapphire eyes sparkling with determination. "Thanks, Drew. But don't think you'll beat me easily in the next rounds."
"I hope you won't be heartbroken then. I wouldn't want to be the reason you lose that smile of yours. I'd feel bad."
Drew chuckled, his emerald eyes locking onto hers as May narrowed her eyes, a playful grin forming. "No problem. I'll just make you cry instead."
Drew raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "How romantic you always are."
May crossed her arms, leaning slightly toward him. "Pretty lucky you always are, sure!"
Their exchange was lighthearted but charged, the kind of banter that hinted at their long-standing rivalry—and perhaps something more to find out..
Among the crowd of frustrated and disappointed coordinators who left the room one by one, Dawn stood amidst familiar faces from her home region. Her snowy gown, inspired by Palkia's celestial hues, shimmered under the soft light as she beamed at the company of her old friends.
Zoey, poised and composed as ever, carried an air of quiet confidence. Her fiery red hair framed her focused gaze, which now softened as she turned to Dawn. Beside her, Ursula exuded her trademark flair, her bold smirk and confident posture making her stand out effortlessly. Even Kenny bounded into the group with an exuberant grin as he noticed Dawn, his green eyes sparkling with delight.
"Dawn," Ursula began, her voice laced with playful arrogance, "you'd better be ready. We're all looking forward to crushing you on that stage."
Zoey nodded, her calm demeanor unwavering as she folded her arms. "Ursula is right. It's shaping up to be quite the showdown, Dawn."
Dawn's radiant smile widened, the warmth of nostalgia filling her voice. "Hehe.. It's so amazing to see so many Sinnoh coordinators here. It feels like a mini-reunion!"
"Absolutely!" Kenny chimed in, puffing out his chest with exaggerated pride. "Most of us qualifying? That's no coincidence. Sinnoh's about to take this competition by storm!"
Dawn matched his energy, nodding firmly. "You said it, Kenny. Let's make Sinnoh proud!"
A teasing voice cut through the conversation, drawing their attention. May leaned casually against a nearby table, her sapphire eyes glinting with playful challenge. "Looks like the Sinnoh crew's all accounted for, huh?"
Dawn laughed, light and carefree. "You bet, May! We're bringing our A-game."
May smirked, her competitive spirit shining through. "Good. I can't wait to see if it's enough to keep up with the best of us."
After the fast exchange, Dawn took a moment to look around, a feeling of accomplishment warming her. "You know," she said softly, her voice carrying a touch of emotion. "This moment feels so special. We're all here, and it's something we'll never forget. Why don't we capture it?"
Zoey's eyes brightened at the suggestion. "Great idea!"
Kenny raised his hand dramatically. "A snapshot of the Sinnoh dream team? Count me in!"
Ursula crossed her arms, feigning indifference. "Hmph. Fine, I guess. At least it'll remind everyone of this amazing gathering..."
Kenny reached for his phone, but Dawn, with a triumphant grin, retrieved her Pokétch from a hidden pocket in her contest dress. Its sleek yet slightly outdated design contrasted with the modern gadgets around her, but she held it up proudly.
Kenny couldn't hold back a chuckle, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "Seriously, Dee Dee? Still using your Pokétch to take pictures?"
Dawn's cheeks flushed pink as she shot him an exasperated look. The old nickname—one she thought she'd left behind—still stung. "It's reliable and practical, okay? Do you have a problem with that?"
Kenny smirked, leaning in with a teasing glint in his eyes. "No problem at all. Just don't go posting this on social media unless you're aiming for vintage quality."
Rolling her eyes, Dawn adjusted the Pokétch to timer mode and set it on a nearby table, making sure everyone would fit into the frame. "Alright, everyone, get ready! On three! One… two… three!"
The group huddled together, arms around each other in varying degrees of enthusiasm. Zoey stood solidly at Dawn's side. Kenny's usual exuberance spilled over, his arm slung casually around Dawn's shoulder. Ursula, true to form, kept a slight distance, her arms folded, though the faint curve of her lips betrayed her excitement.
The soft click of the Pokétch echoed, freezing the moment in time. Dawn retrieved it, her grin widening as she admired the image. "It's perfect!"
Zoey leaned in to take a look, nodding with satisfaction. "Definitely one to remember."
Kenny peered over her shoulder, his voice playful. "A solid memory, Dee Dee. Just don't forget to send it to me!"
Dawn shot him a warning glance, her tone dry. "Keep calling me that, and I will forget."
She held the Pokétch aloft, her expression shifting to one of determination as she raised her free hand in a spirited gesture. "Our Sinnoh crew—ready to rule!"
Ursula let out a theatrical sigh, rolling her eyes. "Please, let's not get carried away with all this teamwork nonsense. It's every coordinator for themselves out there. But," she added with a sly grin, "if it means that much to you, I'll win for all of you."
Dawn smirked, crossing her arms as she leaned slightly toward the self-assured coordinator. "Not if you're on my road."
The tension sparked briefly between their competitive gazes before dissolving into chuckles. The Sinnoh crew stood together, basking in the fleeting warmth of camaraderie before the competition would demand everything they had.
Drew had been lingering nearby, catching snippets of their conversation.
"Inspired for a photo of the Hoenn crew?"
May forced a laughs, annoyed by this thought. "Haha.. With Harley? Thanks but no thanks."
He approached May very closely, putting his arm around her shoulders, firmly in place.
"Sinnoh lost Fantina, but won many interesting profiles," he said, nodding toward the group.
May turned to him, meeting his confidence with her own. She wasn't disturbed by his closeness. "But with our numbers and our quality, Hoenn will shine brighter than any region, as always! I challenge someone from Hoenn to take the crown. We've got the numbers, after all!"
Drew's smirk deepened. "More than numbers, May. With Wallace on our side, we're definitely the favorites. And don't worry—we won't let him hog all the attention this year."
May's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Obviously, Drew! I want a final between you and me, okay?"
Drew chuckled as he discreetly placed his rose on her hair. "Only if you can keep up, May.. but I would love it become reality."
May blushed, answering with a cute pouts. "I would laughs if you're the first to be eliminated."
Nearby, Chloe stood with her Eevee in her arms, feeling somewhat out of place amidst the energetic groups representing their respective regions. She laughed nervously at the ongoing banter, offering a small wave when Dawn glanced her way.
"And then there's me.." Chloe said with a self-deprecating chuckle. "The only one.. survivor from Galar."
"Eevee?" her partner tilted its head, sensing her unease.
Chloe sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. "R-Right… Galar may be small with just me here, but we're here to make a statement too!"
Her voice lacked conviction, and she glanced around, unsure if anyone even noticed her attempt at rallying herself.
Amid the lively buzz of conversations in the coordinators' lounge, Dawn's attention was now captured by an effervescent figure lighting up the far corner of the room.
Mei was in her element, her sleek streaming device held high as she addressed her adoring fans with unbridled enthusiasm. Every gesture was animated, her voice a symphony of excitement as she spoke with rapid-fire energy that commanded attention.
"Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!" Mei's voice rang out, her elation practically contagious even from a distance. "I made it to the second round of the World Grand Contest! You saw that, right? RIGHT!?"
Her words were punctuated by sweeping, theatrical gestures, as though summoning an invisible crowd to share in her triumph. Her sparkling eyes reflected the glow of the overhead lights, while her neatly styled bun bounced with each jubilant motion.
"To everyone watching this stream, listen up!" she announced, pointing directly at the camera lens with the flair of a seasoned performer. "In a few days, you're gonna see my next performance LIVE, and trust me—it's going to be off-the-charts AMAZING! My outfit is so lit, y'all won't even believe it!"
Her relentless energy drew occasional glances from nearby coordinators, though most were already familiar with her flamboyant personality. Mei's gaze suddenly landed on Dawn, and her radiant grin widened in an instant.
"Dawnie! Oh my gosh, girl, I WON! WE MADE IT!"
Before Dawn could react, Mei charged toward her, clutching her streaming device like a prized trophy. She enveloped Dawn in an exuberant hug, nearly throwing her off balance.
"W-Wha—" Dawn managed, caught between laughter and steadying herself.
Mei pulled back, her cheeks flushed with exhilaration. Wasting no time, she angled her device to include both of them in the frame.
"Sorry, bestie!" Mei exclaimed, her words tumbling out in a whirlwind. "I'm just so EXCITED! Can you believe it? I made it to the second round! WE made it! And we're totally making it to the finals together—I just know it! We're gonna slay out there!"
Dawn chuckled, offering a cheerful wave to the camera. "Hey, Mei… and hi, everyone! That's the plan—to the finals!"
"Yes, girl, that's RIGHT!" Mei leaned closer to the frame, her grin dazzling. "Finals, here we come! We're gonna rock this contest like never before, and y'all better be ready to watch us shine!"
Her exuberance spilled over as she gestured dramatically at the camera. "But there's so much to do first—outfits to perfect, choreography to crush, and makeup to absolutely SLAY. It's gotta be PER-FECT! Are you hearing me?!"
Dawn laughed softly, her affection for her energetic friend evident. "If you didn't already know, Mei's the genius behind this amazing Palkia-themed dress I'm wearing! I absolutely love it!"
Mei gasped, clutching her chest as though physically struck by the compliment. A rosy hue crept onto her cheeks as she beamed with pride. "Aww, STOP it, you! You're gonna make me cry!"
She fiddled with her hair bun, then turned back to her stream with a playful grin. "Of course I designed it! Dawnie had to look iconic! Y'all, this dress? It's my masterpiece. Dawn slayed the stage in it—you were AMAZING, girl!"
Turning to Dawn, Mei's eyes sparkled with sincerity. "When I designed it, I thought, 'How do I make Dawn look like an absolute LEGEND?' And boom—Palkia theme! It matches your aura perfectly. You're already dazzling, but this? Next level!"
Dawn smiled shyly, her voice tinged with gratitude. "It really gave me the confidence to perform my best. You're a fashion magician, Mei!"
Mei waved a hand, feigning modesty but clearly savoring the praise. "Omg, stop it! Actually… don't stop—I love compliments!"
Their shared laughter was warm and genuine, a testament to their friendship which dates back to the trip that Dawn took to Unova some years ago.. A long story for a another time.
Dawn's attention flicked to Mei's device, which was lighting up with rapid comments. "Hmm… hey, Mei, looks like your chat's blowing up over something."
Mei, still riding her celebratory high, blinked and shifted her focus to the screen. Her buoyant expression dimmed slightly as she scanned the flurry of messages.
"Ugh," she groaned, rolling her eyes with dramatic flair. "This chat! Always losing it over the dumbest things."
"What's going on?" Dawn asked, her curiosity piqued.
Mei huffed, her movements sharper as she scrolled through the feed. "Just trolls being trolls. You know how it is—keyboard warriors looking for their fifteen seconds of fame. Like I care."
Dawn studied her carefully, sensing a flicker of frustration beneath Mei's usual bravado.
After a deep breath, Mei straightened, her trademark spark reigniting. "Whatever. Forget about them. Dawnie, you're the only one worth my time right now anyway."
Dawn grinned at the sentiment. "That's sweet of you !"
Mei's lips curved into a soft smile, genuine and warm. "No, seriously. Thanks for shouting out my dress earlier. It means the world to me. Being an independent designer in an industry this huge? It's tough. Every little bit of support helps."
Dawn's response was immediate and heartfelt. "It's my pleasure, Mei! And I wasn't exaggerating—the dress is incredible!"
Mei giggled, her cheeks tinted with a blush. "Aww, stop it! Actually… no, don't stop. I love compliments!"
Dawn's eyes lit up like twin stars as an idea struck her, her excitement bubbling over like a freshly uncorked bottle of soda. Without a moment's hesitation, she spun around, her cerulean hair catching the light as she beamed at Rosa with infectious energy, her grin wide enough to rival a full moon.
"Ah! I've got someone you have to meet! Stay right here!"
Mei blinked, momentarily caught off guard but quickly intrigued. She shifted her weight onto one leg, her perfectly styled twin buns swaying slightly as she adjusted a loose strand with a graceful twist of her fingers. "Hmm? Alright, you've got my attention. Go ahead!" she said, her tone equal parts curious and nonchalant.
As Dawn darted off, Mei let her gaze wander, taking in the lively bustle of the lounge around her. She leaned back slightly, her vibrant ensemble—a symphony of bold hues and sleek cuts—catching the room's ambient light in a way that spoke volumes about her designer sensibilities. Her lips curved into a subtle smirk as her mind swirled with curiosity. Who could this mysterious introduction possibly be? Mei gave a small, elegant tug at her jacket's lapel, as if preparing herself to meet someone of importance.
Moments later, Dawn returned, practically dragging a slightly disoriented May behind her.
"May, over here!" Dawn called, her voice bright and commanding enough to slice through the surrounding chatter.
Mei's brows arched as she pointed to herself with exaggerated flair. "Uh… I'm already here, thanks."
Dawn let out a playful huff, rolling her eyes in exasperation. "No, the other May!"
The Hoenn brunette chuckled softly, adjusting her hat with a quick flick of her wrist. "What's going on, Dawn? Did I stumble into something?"
Dawn stepped aside with dramatic flair, gesturing between the two women as though revealing the final pieces of a grand puzzle. "May, meet Mei—the multi-talented coordinator, designer and fashionista extraordinaire!"
Mei took a confident step forward, her presence radiating sophistication and charm. Her outfit, a chic blend of sharp tailoring and artistic flair, seemed to command attention effortlessly. Extending a hand with polished elegance, she flashed a smile that was equal parts inviting and dazzling.
"Hey there, May! Yep, that's me—Mei by birth, Rosa by artistry." Her voice was smooth, tinged with playful charisma. She tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, the motion fluid and deliberate. "So, Dawn's been hyping me up, huh? I hope she's been sharing only the good stuff!"
May's warm grin widened as she clasped Rosa's hand firmly. "All good things, I swear. It's great to finally meet you—Dawn's mentioned you quite a bit."
Rosa's eyes glimmered with amusement as she struck a playful pose, her hand resting lightly on her hip. "Oh, that's lovely to hear, but I bet Dawnie here forgot one crucial detail about me."
Dawn groaned audibly, slapping a hand to her forehead. "Oh no, not this again…"
Ignoring her, Rosa clasped her hands over her heart and took a theatrical step back, her voice dripping with exaggerated flair. "She forgot to mention—I'm also a brilliant actress! I mean, really, how do you leave that out?"
May burst into laughter, shaking her head as Dawn threw her hands up in mock defeat. "Alright, my bad," Dawn admitted, gesturing toward Rosa. "But as you can see, Mei—uh, the 'brillant' Rosa—is incredibly.. multitasking!"
Rosa gasped, her hands flying to her hips as she feigned deep offense. "Multitasking ? Please, do I look like an office assistant? No, darling—I'm versatile ! Actress, coordinator, fashion designer, model, influencer, streamer… You name it, I own it!" She punctuated her statement with a dazzling spin that made her skirt flare out just slightly, her every movement oozing poise.
May clapped her hands together, her voice brimming with mirth. "Wow, I've never met someone who could give Dawn a run for her money in the ego department. I'm honestly impressed."
Dawn crossed her arms, a mock pout forming as she leaned toward May. "Hey, what's that supposed to mean?"
Rosa burst into hearty laughter, nudging May lightly with her elbow. "You hear that, Dawnie? Someone actually thinks I've outdone you in the ego game! I'm flattered!" She turned to Dawn, imitating her friend's pout with uncanny accuracy. "Tell me, how does it feel to be dethroned as the queen of self-confidence?"
Dawn sighed dramatically, tossing her hair over her shoulder. "Terrible. Absolutely terrible. I guess I'll just have to take you down in the contest myself and reclaim my crown!"
Rosa staggered back as if struck by lightning, clutching her chest in mock agony. "Oh, the betrayal! The scandal! Someone get this on video—'Top Ten Reasons Why Dawn and Mei's Friendship Was Doomed!'"
May and Dawn burst into laughter, the playful tension dissolving.
"Alright, enough of that," Dawn said with a fond shake of her head. "Mei—meet May! She's one of the top Hoenn coordinators and has a real eye for fashion. I think you two could have a lot to talk about."
May's eyes lit up as she stepped forward, her enthusiasm radiating. "Rosa, I've got to say—I'm a huge fan of that Palkia-themed dress you designed for Dawn. It's stunning! The way it's both elegant and functional, with that waterproof texture? Absolute genius! Would you be open to collaborating on something similar for me?"
Rosa's expression softened into genuine delight, her gaze sparkling at the praise. "A top-notch coordinator and a fashion connoisseur? I love this already! And thank you—the Palkia dress was one of my proudest creations. A collaboration, you say? I'm listening! What did you have in mind?"
May's grin widened as she leaned in, her excitement palpable. "I'd love a custom dress—something bold and unique that reflects my style but still has your signature flair!"
Rosa tapped her chin thoughtfully, her excitement bubbling over. "A custom piece, huh? I can definitely make that happen. With the contest in full swing, my schedule's a bit packed, but I might just have something perfect in stock—or with my team, I can create something from scratch when I have time. Oh, and we'll need to chat about the price!"
May's wide eyes shimmered with an almost childlike hope as her voice came out soft, tinged with disbelief.
"...Price? It's not a free collaboration in exchange for publicity?"
Rosa froze mid-gesture, her lips parting slightly as if trying to process the sheer absurdity of the statement. Then, the silence shattered as she burst into laughter—a rich, melodious sound that filled the lounge like a chorus of bells. She doubled over, clutching her sides as her perfectly styled buns bobbed slightly with the force of her amusement.
"Free ?" Rosa finally managed to choke out, her voice still shaking with laughter. "Oh, sweet Arceus—do I look like some benevolent fairy godmother handing out designer gowns to downtrodden princesses? Sweetie, nooo! That's not how this works!"
Straightening up, Rosa composed herself, only for her expression to shift into one of exaggerated sorrow. She placed a hand over her heart, her voice thick with faux-tragedy. "Welcome, my dear, to the harsh, glittering reality of business! I've got a brand to uphold, a dedicated team to pay, and darling—art doesn't grow on trees! It takes blood, sweat, sequins, and creativity to craft masterpieces like mine. And life's golden rule? Work must always be rewarded!"
May's shoulders sagged, her lips trembling faintly as she turned to Dawn, her voice tinged with a quiet desperation. "But Dawn, you…"
Dawn, who had been inching away to avoid the brewing storm, froze in place. She chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of her head as a bead of sweat formed on her temple. "Uh… Y-Yeah, about that. I actually paid for all of Rosa's dresses. A lot, actually. Sure, it was the 'friends and family' discount, but…" Her voice trailed off as she winced. "Let's just say it wasn't exactly 'cheap.'"
May's gaze dropped to the floor as the weight of the truth settled over her like a heavy fog. "Oh… So, that's how it is, huh…"
Rosa's sharp eyes softened for a fleeting moment, though the teasing glint quickly returned. She placed a manicured hand on her hip, tilting her head with an amused smile. "Sorry to burst your bubble, babe, but nothing in life is free. Especially not my creations! Unless you've got deep pockets or something equally dazzling to trade, I'm afraid this is where dreams and wallets collide."
May shifted uneasily, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her top. "I… I don't think I can afford it… even with a discount."
Dawn's jaw dropped, her voice escalating in disbelief. "Wait, what ? You mean to tell me you don't have enough for one dress?! How is that even possible?! You're a top coordinator! You've won more contests than I have!"
May's face flushed a deep crimson as she avoided Dawn's incredulous gaze. "I… I have my reasons."
Dawn let out an exasperated huff but quickly softened, a flicker of determination lighting her eyes. "Okay, fine. Maybe I could lend you one of my dresses?"
May looked at her with a deadpan expression, glancing between Dawn's petite frame and her own curvier, more athletic build. She crossed her arms, raising a skeptical eyebrow. "...Are you serious?"
Dawn blinked innocently. "Of course! Why not?"
May sighed, her voice carrying the weight of practicality. "Dawn, your dresses are lovely, but they'd barely fit over my shoulders. Thanks, though."
Rosa, who had been watching the exchange with barely contained amusement, let out a theatrical groan and threw her hands in the air. "Oh, for the love of fashion! You are the most hopeless girl I've ever met. A top-tier coordinator who's flat-out broke? That's like finding a Shiny Magikarp with a move pool of Splash and nothing else—utterly tragic!"
She paused, tapping a finger against her chin as a mischievous spark ignited in her eyes. "But… I can't help but admire your dedication to your craft, even if your wallet's crying for mercy. So…" Rosa straightened up, flashing a dazzling grin as she stretched her arms like a saint. "I've got the deal of a lifetime for you!"
May perked up instantly, her expression brightening with a flicker of hope. "Wait, really?! REALLY ?!"
Rosa basked in the dramatic buildup of the moment, savoring May's eagerness. She leaned in close, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "Oh yes, darling. But first…" She stepped back, raising a perfectly manicured finger. "Give me your absolute best puppy dog eyes."
May's face scrunched up as she tried her hardest to look cute and pitiful, her lips puckering awkwardly while her eyebrows arched in a lopsided attempt at innocence. The result was far from endearing—it landed somewhere between "clumsy Poochyena" and "mid-sneeze Pikachu."
Rosa stared for a split second before bursting into another fit of laughter, this time doubling over so hard she nearly lost her balance. Tears streamed from her eyes as she clapped a hand over her mouth, her voice shaking. "Bwahahaha! Oh my Arceus, that face—! That's so bad, it's brilliant! You're adorable in the weirdest way possible, I'll give you that !"
May blinked, her expression caught between uncertainty and cautious hope. "So… does that mean it worked?"
Rosa wiped a tear from her cheek, still grinning as she straightened up. "Oh, sweetie… no."
"W-What?!" May's voice cracked in disbelief, her jaw dropping.
Dawn, who had been biting her lip to suppress her laughter, finally let out a snort, covering her mouth with her hands as her shoulders shook. Meanwhile, Rosa patted May's shoulder with a teasing smile. "Nice try, though. I'll give you points for persistence. Who knows? Maybe I'll actually give you a deal—if you promise to never make that face again!"
May groaned, burying her face in her hands as the others laughed, the playful camaraderie easing the sting of Rosa's relentless teasing.
Rosa tilted her head, a wicked grin curling her lips as she reveled in her upper hand. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, like a predator savoring the moment before pouncing.
"Nope, not quite... You're going to have to do better than that. I'm talking heart-melting, knee-weakening puppy dog eyes, sweetie. I want to feel your desperation."
From the side, Dawn sighed dramatically, pressing a hand to her forehead in mock exasperation. "Oh no… Mei's switching into her actress mode."
Rosa shot Dawn a playful look, waving a manicured hand dismissively. "Oh, shhh, Dawnie! Let me enjoy this. It's about unlocking her hidden potential !"
Turning back to May with a flourish, Rosa crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow, her expression equal parts amused and challenging. "Alright, girl! Show me the look that could melt the iciest Froslass. I'm waiting."
May squared her shoulders, determination flickering in her eyes. She scrunched her face, contorting her features into what she thought was a heart-wrenching, pitiable expression.
Rosa gasped theatrically, her hands flying to her chest as if struck by an invisible arrow. "Oh my stars… that face! It's so pitiful that it's brilliant ! You've somehow stumbled into the realm of accidental genius, sweetie."
She dissolved into laughter, her voice ringing out like a melody, while May held her pose, her hopeful expression turning to hesitant confusion.
"Does that mean I did it?" May asked tentatively, her voice tinged with equal parts hope and dread.
Rosa wiped a tear from her eye, straightening up as she exhaled dramatically. "You get points for effort. But before I say yes…" She paused, her grin widening like a Delcatty about to pounce. "…There's one last thing you need to do."
Dawn blinked in surprise, looking between Rosa and May. "Wait… Did May actually manage to make you crack? That's a first for me. What's your secret?"
May deadpanned, her voice dry as the desert sands. "I'm just broke."
Rosa burst into another fit of laughter, nearly doubling over as she clutched her sides. "Oh, Arceus, girl! So congratulation, being broke is your 'superpower' ! But let's set aside your tragic backstory finances for a second. It's time to talk business."
Stepping closer, Rosa's expression shifted, her eyes narrowing with a mix of cunning and excitement. She began circling May slowly, her gaze sharp, as though appraising a precious gemstone in need of polishing.
"Here's the deal. Since your wallet is crying louder than a Whismur, I won't ask for a single PokéDollar—not even my 'friends and family' discount." She stopped, locking eyes with May, her smile sharp enough to cut glass.
May's heart skipped a beat, her voice trembling. "T-That sounds too good to be true!"
Rosa smirked, wagging a finger in mock scolding. "Ah-ah, don't be naïve, babe. There's always a catch."
She resumed her pacing, gesturing grandly as she outlined her vision. "I'll design and create a one-of-a-kind, drop-dead gorgeous dress, just for you. Custom-made, tailored to perfection. But!"—she paused for dramatic effect, her voice lowering—"you have to make it to the finals of this contest."
Rosa struck an iconic pose, one eye glinting as if she'd just delivered a grand ultimatum. Then, in a hurried whisper, she added, "Oh, and you'll model the dress for me. Ads, photo shoots, runways—the whole shebang. You'll be a walking showcase for my art. For a year."
Dawn crossed her arms, frowning slightly as she leaned closer to May. "That's… a little…"
May's enthusiasm exploded, cutting Dawn off mid-sentence. "PERFECT! A free, prestigious outfit and a reason to win?! Thank you, Rosa! You're amazing!"
Dawn groaned, burying her face in her hands. "By Arceus… Rosa was born to be a marketer."
Rosa clapped her hands together, beaming as if she'd just landed the deal of the century. Her sly smile returned, practically glowing with anticipation. "Hehe! I'll take that as a compliment. It's a win-win, darling. You get the dress of your dreams and an extra dose of motivation to take the crown. Meanwhile, I get the perfect model for my designs. You'll be a star, and my dress will be legendary !"
Her tone shifted slightly, gaining a mock-serious edge as she wagged a finger at May. "Just remember, though—no finals, no dress. Deal?"
Rosa extended her hand, her devilish grin daring May to hesitate.
May swallowed, the weight of Rosa's conditions settling on her shoulders. But her resolve held firm. With a determined smile, she reached out and clasped Rosa's hand.
Their deal sealed, the two stood in momentary triumph before the murmurs and laughter of returning coordinators drew Dawn's attention.
Dawn's gaze drifted toward the growing crowd clustered near the large TV screen. The air buzzed with tension as coordinators leaned in, eager to catch the latest announcement. Even Serena, who had just returned from her brief absence, stood among them, her arms crossed as a flicker of curiosity danced across her face.
"Looks like all the qualifiers are huddled around the TV," Dawn noted, her tone a mix of curiosity and rising urgency. Her sapphire eyes sparkled with both intrigue and apprehension.
May tilted her head, her brows knitting slightly. "Are they announcing the match-ups already?"
A wave of nervous energy jolted through Dawn as her eyes widened in alarm. "Oh no! What if they've already started? Did we miss something important?"
May placed a calming hand on Dawn's shoulder, her voice steady. "Relax, Dawn. Looks like we're just in time." She gestured toward the screen, where the feed had just transitioned to the event's iconic host.
Rosa chuckled, flicking her hair over her shoulder in an exaggerated motion as she strode confidently ahead. Her steps were purposeful, as though the lounge itself were her runway. "Come on, my associates! Let's claim the best spot for the show!" She beckoned with a flourish, her words delivered with dramatic flair.
The trio joined the gathering crowd just as the announcer's booming voice resonated through the room, instantly silencing the hum of chatter.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting for! Our first match-up of the Round of 16 is... Kenny versus Miette!"
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the room. Miette's lips curved into a sly smile as she clapped her hands together, exuding confidence. "Oh là là! Opening the show? I couldn't be happier!" She glanced down at her Slurpuff, who puffed its cheeks in agreement, its pink body bouncing with enthusiasm. "Let's give everyone a sweet breakfast treat, right, Slurpuff?"
Kenny, standing a short distance away, remained composed, his expression unreadable. The silence from his end only heightened the tension.
"Moving right along, folks!" the announcer continued seamlessly. "The second match of the day is... Zoey versus Dawn!"
Dawn's breath hitched as her heart leapt into her throat. Her hands flew to her chest in a gesture of disbelief. "Oh my… Zoey already? This can't be real…"
Zoey stepped forward, her signature calm confidence radiating as she crossed her arms. A playful smirk graced her lips as she met Dawn's wide-eyed gaze. "Well, well. Didn't expect to see me so soon, huh?" she teased lightly. "I did say I wanted to see you on stage, but even I didn't think fate would rush things this much."
Dawn let out a nervous laugh, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. "Haha, yeah… I guess fate has a funny way of arranging things."
Zoey's smirk deepened, her eyes gleaming with friendly rivalry. "Looks like the stage couldn't wait to see what we've got. Better be ready, Dawn."
The announcer's voice rang out again, cutting through the buzz of the crowd.
"And for our third match-up: Rosa versus Solidad!"
Rosa's shoulders slumped dramatically as she let out an exaggerated groan, resting a hand on her hip. "Ugh, seriously? Of all the luck…"
May turned to her, sympathy evident in her eyes. "Facing someone like Solidad isn't exactly easy, is it?"
Rosa waved her hand dismissively, her lips curling into a wry smile. "Oh, please. I'm not talking about that. I was hoping for a headline-worthy match! Imagine me against Wallace, Atalante, or even the Kalos Queen herself. Now that would've made waves."
May rolled her eyes, her tone dry and unimpressed. "Oh, how tragic for you. My heart bleeds."
Rosa threw her hands up in mock surrender, her laughter light and carefree. "A girl can dream, right? Fine, I'll settle for this round. For now."
"And now, the fourth electrifying battle!" the announcer proclaimed. "It's Atalante versus May!"
May groaned, her shoulders sagging as she tilted her head back. "Oh, not again…"
Rosa leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "May-May, quick! Let's switch places. With our names and appearances, they might not even notice the difference." Her mischievous grin stretched wide, her tone oozing feigned innocence.
May couldn't help but snort, crossing her arms. "As tempting as that sounds, Rosa, I think they'd catch on pretty fast. You're a 'bit' too extra to pass as me."
From the sidelines, Drew's sharp green eyes gleamed with amusement as he chimed in, his smirk as infuriating as ever. "Someone sounds thrilled to face Atalante again."
Atalante stepped forward, her poised demeanor commanding attention. She radiated confidence, her every movement graceful yet powerful. "May, are you ready for another round? Our battles always leave the audience in awe~"
May mustered a weary smile, her tone light but edged with resignation. "Yeah, of course. Like always…"
The room stirred again as the announcer's enthusiasm reached a crescendo. "And finally, for our fifth thrilling match-up: Lillie versus Harley!"
In addition to the temperature which didn't help outside, Lillie froze for a another reason in the stands of the stadium, her pale hands holding tightly in front of her as her eyes widened. "I… I made it to the Round of 16..?" she whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief. "This still feels so surreal…"
Ash stepped forward, his grin wide and infectious. "You've come so far, Lillie! You've totally got this!" He gave her a confident thumbs-up, his enthusiasm unwavering.
Mallow pumped her fist into the air, her excitement bubbling over. "Go, Lillie! Alola's counting on you!"
Lana stood at her side, her calm demeanor exuding quiet strength. "We'll be here for you, cheering you on until the very end."
Kiawe crossed his arms, his voice steady but fiery with determination. "Burn this stage, Lillie!"
Sophocles piped up with a nervous laugh. "Maybe not literally, though. Just, you know, shine out there!"
A flicker of determination lit up Lillie's expression as she nodded, her voice growing steady. "With my Pokémon and your support, I will!"
Meanwhile, Harley stood off to the side of the coordinator's hall, muttering under his breath. His shoulders relaxed visibly as a sly grin crept across his face. "Thank Arceus… dodged a bullet on this one."
Drew, still observing, raised an eyebrow, his tone tinged with curiosity. "You seem oddly relieved, Harley."
Harley's smirk widened, his tone low and conspiratorial. "Oh, darling, let's just say I avoided the worst. I'm not complaining one bit. Now, let's see what fate has in store next…"
"Hold onto your seats, folks, because it's time for the sixth epic battle of the day! Wallace versus Nando!"
All eyes turned to Nando, who stood quietly in the corner, his harp slung over his back. He whispered softly, almost to himself, "By Arceus…"
Before he could fully process his name being called, a familiar voice rang out, cutting through the din like a melody.
"Nando! Wait up!"
Startled, he turned to see Dawn approaching him with her trademark energy, her cheerful grin lighting up the room. "Dawn? It's been quite some time…"
She stopped in front of him, hands on her hips. "Hey, long time no see! Oh, and by the way," she added with a sheepish laugh, "sorry I kinda forgot you in the Sinnoh crew photo. Mind if I make it up to you now?"
Nando tilted his head, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "I harbor no ill feelings, Dawn. If that is what you wish…"
"Perfect!" She wasted no time, pulling out her Pokégear and holding it up. "Alright, let's get this right. Say Piplup !"
"Pi..plup…?" Nando repeated, his tone unsure, as he forced a polite smile.
The Pokétch clicked, capturing the moment, and Dawn beamed at the screen. "There we go, all set! You're officially back in the crew. By the way," she continued, her expression softening, "you've made such an incredible journey to get here. You should be proud, Nando. But don't stop now—it's far from over. Good luck out there!"
Nando blinked, touched by her words. "Thank you, Dawn. Your encouragement… it means more than I can say. And best of luck to you as well, against Zoey."
Dawn waved as she walked away, her smile lingering in the air like a warm breeze. Nando looked down, adjusting his harp, but as his fingers brushed the strings, a faint twang revealed the instrument was slightly out of tune. He sighed softly, as if the harp mirrored his inner doubts.
"Ladies and gentlemen!" the announcer's voice interrupted his thoughts, pulling him back to the present. "Hold onto your seats for the seventh match of the day! Drew versus Ursula!"
Ursula's sharp eyes narrowed as she leaned against the wall, muttering under her breath. "Well, well, Drew… Looks like I might have to make my way all the way to the finals if I want to face Dawn."
Drew, standing nearby, caught her words and chuckled, tossing his hair back with a casual flick of his wrist. "Sorry to break your dream, sweetie, but I've got my own plans for the finals."
Ursula turned to him with a sly smirk. "Oh? I hope you're not just a pretty face, Drew. You'll need more than looks to back that up."
His emerald eyes sparkled with confidence. "You don't need to hope, Ursula. Just like a rose, beauty can be deceptive… as are tactics in battle. Trust me, you won't be bored."
She crossed her arms, intrigued but unwilling to show it. "We'll see about that."
"And now!" The announcer's voice climbed to a dramatic crescendo. "It's time to announce the eighth and final match of the day! Serena versus Chloe!"
Ash leaned forward, his eyes widening in surprise. "Whoa, Serena's up against Chloe?! I wasn't expecting that!"
Goh, sitting beside him, crossed his arms with a thoughtful expression. "Yeah, for the last match of the day, that's going to be intense."
Ash furrowed his brow, glancing at Pikachu, who tilted his head curiously. "If I remember, Chloe looks up to Serena a lot… You think she'll be okay?"
Goh smiled faintly. "Don't worry, Ash. I've got faith in Chloe. She's come a long way. I think she can handle it."
"I.." Chloe's pale face betrayed her panic as she stared at the screen, the announcement replaying in her head like an echo she couldn't escape.
"I-I won't handle this!" she finally blurted out, her voice shaky and thin.
Her Eevee nuzzled her hand gently, licking her fingers in an attempt to calm her down. Chloe jumped at the unexpected touch, her heart racing.
"Eev…"
She turned back to the screen, swallowing the rising nausea as the realization sank in. Her name, paired with Serena's, glowed on the display like a challenge she couldn't refuse.
A soft hand rested on her shoulder. Chloe looked up to see Serena's calm, reassuring smile. "It's going to be okay," Serena said gently. "You've trained hard for this. You're ready. We're like equals now—there's no reason to be afraid."
Chloe hesitated, her hands trembling as she struggled to steady her breath. After a moment, she nodded weakly. "O-Okay… I'll try." She glanced back at the screen and muttered under her breath, "Even if I'm not sure about the equals part with a Kalos Queen…"
The room buzzed again as someone called out loudly. "Ah finally, Brock reserved a table!" May's voice rang out above the chatter. "Alright, I'm heading there first. Don't keep me waiting, girls—I'm starving!"
Drew smirked as he followed her, muttering, "Don't push me. I'm coming."
Barely the shock of the revelation of the next matches which will take place the day after tomorrow, night had already fallen for this first day of the World Grand Contest. Those invited to come and eat together around a table in the restaurant wondered if the end of this eventful day was going to have some more surprises in store for them...
Hello~ Thanks again for the feedback on the last chapters!
As I talked about last time, I'm going to return to a rhythm of 1 chapter every 2 weeks temporarily!
Thank you for your understanding once again! Thanks to this rhythm, I will be able to start preparing some little surprises in addition to perfectly setting the next day in the story!
So, I'll see you next time in two weeks!
Take care of you and don't hesitate to tell me.. which contest battle you are looking forward to the most ? I'm quite curious about it!