It was the third day of Professor Sycamore's Pokémon Summer Camp, and it began with the our heroes and their Pokémon jogging along the seaside trail. The salty breeze rolled off the ocean, carrying with it the cries of Wingull overhead.
At the front of the group, Ash's energy was boundless as always. His arms pumped with steady rhythm, and Pikachu rode proudly on his shoulder, its ears bouncing in time.
"Alright, everyone, let's push it!" Ash shouted, grinning back at the others. "We've got another big day ahead!"
"Pika-pikachu!" Pikachu chimed in, sparking with enthusiasm.
Right beside him, Serena matched his pace with surprising ease, Braixen running gracefully at her side. Her face was set with quiet determination, though her eyes flicked toward Ash now and then.
"You really don't slow down, do you?" she said, smiling despite the effort.
Ash grinned. "Can't let up! We're gonna win today's event for sure!"
Behind them, Bonnie skipped along like the run was nothing more than a game, her pigtails bouncing with each hop. Dedenne peeked out of her little pouch, squeaking happily at the salty air.
"Come on, Clemont, you'll fall behind at this rate!" Bonnie teased, glancing over her shoulder.
Far in the back, Clemont was a different story. His legs wobbled like jelly, his shirt clung with sweat, and his glasses had already fogged from the effort. He clutched at his side, panting like he might keel over any second.
"Th-this... this isn't... built for... scientists!" Clemont wheezed, nearly tripping over his own feet.
Ash slowed just enough to glance back at him. "Don't give up, Clemont! If we're gonna win today's events, we need everyone in top shape!"
Bonnie giggled, her voice sing-song. "Maybe Clemont should invent a running machine that does the running for him!"
"V-very funny!" Clemont huffed, trying to straighten but only managing a stumble. Even the Pokémon in the group had outpaced him by now.
Serena glanced back too, her expression firm. "Ash is right. If we want the full ten points, we've got to push ourselves today. No excuses."
Her words lit a fire in the air, the team's resolve clear even as Clemont groaned in defeat.
[Flashback – The Day Before]
The previous evening, the campers had gathered in the main hall as Professor Sycamore announced the camp's point-based competition. His voice carried excitement as he revealed the first event: a fishing competition, where the winning team would be decided by the highest total weight of Pokémon caught.
The contest had been wild from the start. Ash managed only a flopping Magikarp, to which Pikachu gave a sheepish shrug. Clemont, determined to prove himself, unveiled a mechanical "Super Reel 2000"... which promptly sparked, sputtered, and exploded in a puff of smoke, sending him sprawling as Bonnie laughed until her sides hurt.
But the show-stopper came when their friend Trevor—whom they had met back in Santalune City—hooked something massive. With every ounce of his strength, and with his Charmander cheering him on, Trevor pulled a Wailord out of the ocean, water cascading down like a tidal wave. The cheers that followed made it clear there was no competition. Team Squirtle had secured first place.
Second place went to Team Treecko, thanks to May's cool-headed catch of a Wailmer, which nearly dragged her into the water before Blaziken helped pull it in.
Team Froakie, however, didn't even place. No points, no glory. Just Ash's Magikarp flopping pitifully on the dock and Clemont's smoldering invention lying in pieces.
[Return to Present – The Jog]
The memory still burned as they ran that morning. Ash clenched his fists tighter, Serena's jaw set with determination, and even Bonnie seemed unusually focused between her teasing remarks.
"This time," Serena said under her breath, "we're going to win."
Ash nodded firmly. "Yeah. We're not walking away with nothing again."
Behind them, Clemont puffed like a Snorlax running uphill, but even through his wheezing he managed to croak, "R-right...! We'll... w-win... somehow!"
Bonnie just smirked, skipping effortlessly ahead of him. "Not if you pass out first."
[Line Break]
The mess hall bustled with the usual morning chatter, the clatter of plates, and the cheerful calls of Pokémon. Ash and his friends dug into breakfast at their usual table, Serena laughing as Bonnie tried to sneak extra berries to Dedenne.
At the far corner, three familiar "chefs" were less than cheerful. Jessie, James, and Meowth huddled over a pot of soup, whispering fiercely as they stirred.
"Ugh, how many days of this do we have to endure?" Jessie grumbled under her breath, glaring across the room at Pikachu perched happily on Ash's shoulder. "Every time I see that yellow pest, I just want to grab it already!"
"Not just Pikachu," James agreed, slumping dramatically. "Look at all the twerps' Pokémon together in one place. It's like a buffet we can't touch!"
"Yeah, it's torture!" Meowth added, tail lashing. "If we weren't stuck playin' chefs, we could've swiped the whole lot of 'em by now!"
The three scowled in unison—until a shadow fell across their table. Slowly, they turned, eyes widening.
Madame Catherine stood behind them, arms folded, her stern gaze sharp enough to freeze a Salamence mid-flight.
"Chefs," she said crisply.
Jessie, James, and Meowth bolted upright, snapping into an exaggerated salute. "Yes, Madame Catherine!" they chorused, plastering on wide smiles.
She narrowed her eyes, as though she could hear their unspoken grumbling. "You've been doing excellent work keeping the meals running smoothly," she said at last. Then, to their surprise, her lips curved into a small smile. "In fact, I've decided you've earned a raise."
"A raise?!" Jessie gasped.
James clasped his hands to his chest, eyes shimmering. "Oh, Madame Catherine, you're an angel!"
Even Meowth was stunned, tail curling with delight. "Did ya hear that, guys? A raise!"
The trio exchanged a glance, their grins stretching ear to ear. For a moment, their grumbling was forgotten, replaced by dreams of better pay, better food, and maybe even a better chance to fund their next scheme.
Before their fantasies could take flight, the hall doors opened and Professor Sycamore stepped onto the small stage at the front, Corsette and Sophie following close behind. The chatter quieted at once as the professor raised his hand.
"Good morning, campers!" he greeted warmly. "I hope you're all ready for today's activity. You'll be putting your creativity, teamwork, and bonds with your Pokémon to the test in a Pokévision Competition!"
Excited murmurs rippled through the crowd. Ash leaned forward eagerly, while Serena's eyes widened with curiosity.
"To begin," Sycamore continued, "I thought it best to show you an example." He tapped a remote, and the lights dimmed as a screen lowered at the front of the hall.
The video that played began with Sycamore himself, standing proudly in front of his lab in Lumiose City. "Bonjour!" he greeted the camera. "I am Professor Sycamore, and I'd like to introduce you to the wonderful world of Pokémon!"
The video shifted to clips of his lab, Pokémon frolicking happily in the gardens and play areas. Helioptile scurried across a desk, while Garchomp soared into the sky. "As a Pokémon Professor, my duty is to research and understand these amazing creatures," Sycamore narrated. "But I also serve as caretaker to the Pokémon who live with me at my lab."
Serena watched, entranced, as the footage showed Sycamore kneeling to feed a group of baby Pokémon, his smile warm and genuine.
Finally, the video closed with Sycamore standing alongside Sophie and Corsette, waving to the camera as Corsette held up a friendly little Swirlix.
"If you dream of becoming a Pokémon Trainer," Sycamore said with a grin, "know that I'll be here to help you begin your journey when the time comes!"
The screen faded to black, and the hall erupted into applause.
"That," Sycamore said as the lights returned, "is just one example of what a Pokévision can be. Now it's your turn to create something that captures the spirit of you and your Pokémon. Be creative, have fun, and most importantly, show the bond you share with your partners."
Ash's fists clenched with excitement. "Alright! Let's make the best Pokévision ever, Pikachu!"
"Pika-chu!" Pikachu squeaked, sparks flying in agreement.
Bonnie tugged on Clemont's sleeve, beaming. "We have to win today, big brother! Full ten points!"
Clemont adjusted his glasses nervously, already muttering about "technical requirements" and "proper equipment." Serena, meanwhile, glanced down at Braixen's Poké Ball with a thoughtful smile, her mind already whirring with ideas.
[Line Break]
As the crowd dispersed to prepare for the competition, May walked over to Team Froakie with a friendly wave. Blaziken trailed behind her, towering but calm, drawing curious glances from the other campers.
"Hey, you guys," May greeted with a smile. "So, do you know much about Pokévision?"
Bonnie shook her head quickly, hugging Dedenne close. "Not really! But Serena and I have seen Aria's videos! She's amazing!"
"Aria?" May repeated, her eyes lighting up. For a moment, she almost sparkled with excitement. "You mean the Aria, right? The reigning Kalos Queen?"
Serena nodded, a little shy. "Her videos are everywhere. She always looks so confident and elegant... it's like she and her Pokémon are one on stage."
Hearing the name, May's smile softened, but her eyes flickered with something more intense: admiration, and just a hint of determination.
"That's because she is," May said quietly. "Aria's not just a performer. She's the Performer. The best in Kalos. The Kalos Queen."
Max, who had been lingering nearby with Treecko perched on his shoulder, adjusted his glasses and jumped in eagerly. "You forgot the best part! May actually considers Aria her rival! She battled her in a contest once back in Hoenn, and Aria totally beat her!"
"Max!" May spun around, cheeks flushing pink.
"It's true, though!" Max pressed on, ignoring her glare. "That's why May came here—to train and get stronger, so she can face Aria again someday!"
Drew, leaning casually against the railing, smirked and flicked his hair. "He's not wrong. Aria is strong. Even as a coordinator, I can admit she has a presence you don't see often. May's smart to take her seriously."
May's face turned redder as she shoved Max back and waved a hand dismissively at Drew. "Okay, okay, enough! You guys don't need to tell everyone my entire story!"
Ash blinked curiously, tilting his head. "So, May... you came all the way to Kalos for Performances?"
May nodded, regaining her composure. "That's right. After all my travels through Hoenn and Johto, I wanted to grow, not just as a coordinator, but as a performer. Kalos has its own style, and the Pokémon Showcases are completely unique."
Serena tilted her head, curious. "Showcases?"
"They're kind of like contests, but not about battling," May explained, her voice taking on an excited edge as she warmed to the topic. "Showcases have two rounds. The first is the Theme Performance. You're given a specific task—like baking Poké Puffs, grooming, or even herding Rhyhorn—and you and your Pokémon have to do it with creativity and style."
Bonnie's eyes widened. "That sounds fun! And cute!"
May smiled. "It really is. But the second round is the real challenge, the Freestyle Performance. That's where you show off the bond you share with your Pokémon in your own way. No rules, no limits, just dazzling the audience with what you can do together. When I saw my first Showcase, it was unforgettable. And that's why I wanted to try it."
Her gaze turned a little distant, filled with determination. "If I want to grow, if I want to truly shine, I need to learn from the best, and that means coming here to Kalos."
Serena listened intently, her fingers brushing against Braixen's Poké Ball at her side. The idea of showing her bond with her Pokémon, not in battle but in a way that was creative and beautiful, made her heart beat faster. She didn't say it out loud, but something about it stirred inside her.
Maybe... this could be something for me too.
[Line Break]
The campers gathered again at the main hall, each team buzzing with ideas after Sycamore's explanation. Tables were scattered with props, fabrics, and simple equipment to help them prepare.
Ash leaned over the table, Pikachu perched on his shoulder. "Alright! If this is about showing off our Pokémon, then we're going to give it everything we've got!"
Serena studied the items, her brow furrowed. "It's not just about showing off. It's about how we present ourselves too... like May said, it's a performance."
Bonnie raised her hand like she was in class. "I say we make it cute! Dedenne would be perfect at that!"
"Bunelby too," Clemont added, adjusting his glasses. "If we incorporate some invention to frame the Pokémon—"
"No explosions this time," Bonnie cut him off, wagging a finger.
Clemont flinched. "I—I'll make sure it's stable this time!"
Ash turned to Serena, grinning. "You're good at coming up with ideas, Serena. What do you think?"
Serena hesitated, fingers curling into her skirt. Everyone was looking at her. "Um... maybe... we could focus on showing how close we are with our Pokémon? Something simple, but warm. Pikachu, Braixen, Bunnelby, and Dedenne all together. That way, it's not just about flash—it's about our bond."
Ash's grin widened. "I like it! That's what Pokémon's all about!" Pikachu squeaked in agreement.
Bonnie clapped her hands. "Then let's do it!"
With their plan in place, Team Froakie began gathering their props and brainstorming the shots they'd need for their Pokévision. Outside, the other teams were already hard at work—Team Treecko filming near the beach with Drew calling the shots, while Team Squirtle busied themselves with Trevor's camera setups.
[Line Break]
Serena had Team Froakie trekking from spot to spot along the coastline, but nothing seemed to match the image she had in her head. She frowned at the horizon, then pulled out her tablet, scrolling through a map. "There," she said, her eyes lighting up. "If we head uphill a little, there's a ridge that overlooks the sea. It'll be perfect for our video."
Ash grinned at her determination. "Sounds great! With all of us putting in everything we've got, there's no way we're losing this competition."
They started the climb, with Serena leading confidently. Bonnie bounded ahead with Dedenne cheering from her pouch, while Clemont trailed behind, already puffing and wheezing. His legs shook as he tried to keep pace, and his glasses fogged with effort.
Serena's excitement carried her forward—but she didn't notice the narrow gorge ahead until it was too late. The ground gave way beneath her foot, and with a cry she slipped downward.
"Serena!" Ash lunged, catching her hand just in time. But their momentum dragged him forward too, and both tumbled into the gorge, landing with a thud at the bottom.
Clemont and Bonnie skidded to the edge, eyes wide with panic. Seeing Ash and Serena stir, they exhaled in relief.
"We're fine!" Ash called up, trying to push himself upright. But as soon as he put weight on his foot, he winced sharply and fell back down.
Serena's eyes widened. "No, you're not fine—Ash twisted his ankle!"
Clemont adjusted his glasses, serious now. "I'll go get help right away." Bonnie nodded and followed him, leaving Ash and Serena with Pikachu and Braixen by their side.
Serena lowered her gaze, guilt pressing on her chest. "This is all my fault. You got hurt because of me... and it was for something that doesn't even matter. I always see you training with Pikachu, giving everything for your battles. Meanwhile I don't even know what I want to do. I'm just tagging along."
Ash leaned back against the rocks, his expression calm despite the pain. "Serena, nothing I ever do is a waste of time. Even this. Everything I go through helps me become a Pokémon Master. And... I couldn't do it without Pikachu."
"Pika-chu!" Pikachu said softly, hugging Ash's arm.
Serena felt her lips curve into a small smile. She dipped her handkerchief into the clear brook nearby, wrung it out, and returned to press it gently over Ash's swollen ankle. "You and Pikachu really are close."
Ash grinned at her. "Yeah. When we're together, there's nothing we can't take on."
Serena turned toward Braixen, who had been watching quietly, and her smile deepened. The warmth of Ash's words lingered inside her.
Soon, footsteps echoed from above. Clemont returned with Professor Sycamore—along with the camp's three chefs. To Serena's surprise, the trio of cooks descended first, setting up a rope with unexpected efficiency.
"Come on, up you go," Jessie muttered, averting her eyes. "Not like we care or anything."
"Y-Yeah, just doing our job!" James added, tugging the rope.
Meowth huffed. "Quit thankin' us, it's embarrassin'."
Neither Ash nor Serena noticed their strange behavior. They only offered heartfelt thanks as Sycamore helped them out of the gorge. "I'm just glad you're both safe," the professor said warmly.
With the ridge just ahead, Serena insisted they keep moving. Ash leaned on Clemont's shoulder, Pikachu balancing carefully, while Bonnie encouraged them from the front. The group climbed the last stretch toward the perfect spot Serena had chosen, ready to finally begin filming.
[Line Break]
That evening, the main hall buzzed with chatter as the Pokévision showings began.
Team Treecko's video dazzled the crowd, each shot crisp and stylish, with Drew's Marshtomp framed perfectly against the waves and Max proudly showcasing Treecko's moves.
But it was May's Blaziken who stole the spotlight, spinning through fiery arcs with contest-inspired elegance that left the campers clapping in awe.
Other teams followed, their efforts earning cheers and laughter. When Team Froakie's video finally played, Serena's fingerprints were everywhere. From Pikachu's playful antics to Braixen's graceful poses, every moment radiated charm and warmth. The room erupted into applause, and Serena felt her cheeks heat up.
Later, as the campers lingered in the hall, Ash looked around and noticed Serena had slipped out. He thought about going after her, but when he reached the doorway, he paused.
Out on the dock, under the silver glow of the moon, he saw Serena sitting with May, their Pokémon close by. Ash smiled faintly, realizing Serena wasn't alone, and quietly let them have their moment before turning back inside.
Outside, Serena hugged her knees, staring at the moonlit waves. "What am I even doing...? Everyone else has something they're working toward. Ash, May, even Drew... but me? I don't even know what my dream is."
A familiar voice broke her thoughts. "I used to feel the exact same way."
Serena turned, surprised to see May approaching. She sat down beside her, legs dangling over the edge of the dock, and smiled gently.
"When I first started traveling," May said, "I didn't have a dream either. Honestly, I just wanted to get away from home. Being the daughter of Norman, the Petalburg Gym Leader, meant everyone expected me to battle, but I didn't care much about it back then." She chuckled softly. "I was lost, just like you."
Serena tilted her head, listening intently.
"But then I saw my first Pokémon Contest. The colors, the creativity, the way Trainers and Pokémon could shine together... I thought, 'That's it. That's what I want to do.' And when I finally tried it, I fell in love with performing. That's how I found my path."
Her eyes softened, reflecting the moonlight. "And Ash was there, supporting me through it all. Even when I doubted myself, he believed in me. Having him by my side made all the difference."
Serena's heart skipped as May turned toward her.
"You have the best person in the world supporting you, Serena. Trust me. With Ash by your side, you can do anything. Whatever dream you choose, you'll be amazing at it."
Serena felt her chest tighten with warmth, her worries easing just a little. She smiled faintly, gazing out at the glittering water. "...Thanks, May. Maybe I'll figure it out sooner than I thought."
Braixen leaned against her, and the two girls sat together quietly, the night wrapping around them like a gentle embrace.
Back in the hall, Ash sat among the others but found himself glancing toward the doors every so often. When Serena finally returned, May at her side, she looked lighter somehow, her eyes shining a little brighter.
Ash smiled, relieved, before turning his attention back to Pikachu, who gave him a knowing nod.
[Line Break]
And the winners of today's Pokévision Showdown are..." He paused for effect, then smiled. "Team Froakie!"
Cheers erupted as Ash, Serena, Clemont, and Bonnie beamed with pride. Their warm, heartfelt video had captured the audience perfectly. Serena's cheeks flushed as Bonnie hugged her tightly, while Ash gave Pikachu a high five.
"In second place," Sycamore continued, "Team Treecko!"
The applause swelled again. Drew crossed his arms with his usual smirk, but May and Max celebrated openly, exchanging grins and pumping their fists.
"And in third place, Team Chikorita!"
That announcement was met with laughter and clapping as their playful video was replayed briefly on the big screen, drawing chuckles from the crowd once more.
The hall buzzed with excitement as trainers congratulated one another, swapping compliments and jokes. Pokémon bounced happily around their trainers, sharing in the energy.
As the campers began to disperse for the night, a sense of camaraderie lingered in the air. Victories and losses mattered less than the joy of creating together, and the friendships forged grew stronger with every passing day.
The Summer Camp carried on with a lively spirit, promising even greater adventures and unforgettable memories still to come.
AS THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!
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