Author's Note:

Here it is, the final part of the Grand Festival. We also get a better look in on Palermo, to show she has a reason for being so critical on everyone. I hope this arc has proven to be enjoyable as it's been more difficult to prepare for from a writers stand point than one of the more action or emotional arcs or even the leagues. I also want to say that just because Serena's goal is finished in Johto now the festival is over, don't expect her to take a back seat or anything, she can still work, train and everything else, along with supporting Ash in the Silver Conference, obviously. Not much else to say, don't forget to vote on the poll which'll change when we get to chapter eighty one and with that, let's begin.

Chapter 77: Grand Festival - Finals

Archer walked across his office - well, not his by technicality, the one he liberated from the radio tower director. Crossing the red carpet, he stared out of the window that over looked the city, his city. He could slightly see his transparent reflection, his eye browl lowered in a frown as he glared down. Multiple red and blue flashing lights across the streets. It was difficult to make out anything imparticular, but this is where he belongs, above everyone else, ready to crush them under his boot.

He has enjoyed these last few months as the head of Team Rocket but alas, he will soon have to give it up. Giovanni is due to arrive tomorrow when they'll announce the return of their empire. Why wait? Well that is simple, they need all eyes on Goldenrod, so they are waiting for the Grand Festival interviews as that is the biggest event to pass through these airwaves this season. Every ear in the region will be on this tower.

A knock on the door caused him to turn around, "yes?"

The door creaked open and Petrel walked in, carrying a stack of files. He stumbled slightly and Archer's browl flinched in the moment. He never liked the lanky operative, but he has proven himself useful and the boss approved his promotion back when he lead the infiltrial of Silph company.

"Sir," he saluted, dropping multiple files in the process. He sank to his knees in a pathetic attempt to pick them back up.

"What did you want?" Archer asked.

"Oh err, I came to update you," Petrel stuttered, "we have been informed of increase police activity within the city."

"I can see so much from my window," Archer spat, "if that is all, I am very busy."

"Well with this development, I want to know if we are continuing as planned," Petrel struggled to his feet.

"Of course, we are," Archer turned his back to look back out his window, "if they truly were aware of our presence then they wouldn't be trying to spook us. Whatever they are doing right now has nothing to do with us. Giovanni confirmed his arrival in the city last week. We'd be stupid to pull everything right now."

"Right," Petrel visibly sank in his stance, "anyway, we also have an update on Professor Namba."

"I already told you we don't have the resources to spring him right now," Archer turned back around, his eyebrows narrowed in a glare as he quickly crossed the room, looming over his underling, "if the boss wants to after his return to power then so be it but I wouldn't hold your breath after that insufficient waste of resources at the lake!"

"A-actually sir," Petrel shrank even more, "that won't be possible. His transport van to prison was attacked and he didn't survive."

"Attacked?" Archer questioned, stepping back from his intimidating presence.

"Yes," Petrel replied, "we believe it to be the work of the grunt killer. Same haul marks with an over turned vehicle, secluded area of the road."

"Interesting, he hasn't appeared on our radar since the Olivine news revealed his identity," Archer considered, as he walked back to the window, "Petrel. I believe I know who our little friends with flashing lights are after. And if my suspicions are correct then we have even more reason to proceed as planned. You see, our two biggest threats are in a game of cat and mouse, so we can use that to raise to power."

"Sir," Petrel saluted once more.

"Although we need to ensure the bosses safety above all else. This Silver has proven to be formidable and relentless, under other circumstances he might've proven to be a reliable ally," Archer continued, "make sure all available troops are within the tower at nightfall. Get Domino on the layout plans for them."

"Sir," Petrel nodded in agreement, "I believe she went to check on the underground. Making sure the director isn't making too much noise."

"Weird," Archer rubbed his chin as he processed that information, "I never took her as the cautious type."

"Why did we keep him alive anyway?" Petrel asked.

"Simple," Archer waved his hand has if dismissing the idea, "when we make our announcement. The police will do what they can to disrupt it. So we will use him as a distraction and insurance that they don't interrupt our comeback. Dismissed."

Archer watched as the lanky man scuttered out of the door. As it slowly shut behind him, Archer smirked to himself, turning back to the window, watching the multiple emergency service lights rushing across the city.

Everything that they did in Johto has led to this moment. From the numerous money-based operations like the one ran out of Slowpoke well, until Silver got involved. Of course, they had several of those set up, mainly in backwash towns to avoid the large police activity.

Then they had that trio work on the antenna on the tower to be ready for the evolution mechanism that Professor Namba was working on. They already had the working model to improve their own Pokémon's strength but a ray to take away their oppositions strength would make the takeover that much easier. Obviously, that little side project fell through and was the main reason they had to delay the bosses return but now it doesn't matter.

The boss shall return and with control over the heart of the region, they'll control the blood that it pumps through the region and unless they want their lesser citizens to suffer from a lack of goods or medical attention or business from within their hub, they will fall in line. From there they can spread back to Kanto, then another region and another, until everywhere is united under one flag. The flag of Rocket.

Serena blinked awake as she took in the surroundings of her room, although something was off. Every day she has woken up, she has been facing the window with her head laid on Ash's chest. It's how she has preferred to sleep, in all honesty but today she was facing away from the window and into the wall.

This wasn't how she fell asleep, she remembers the feeling of Ash's heart beat and his hand stroking her hair. Two things which have become somewhat comforting as she dozes off. Shifting slightly, she felt the extra weight behind her, so it also wasn't a case of Ash just getting up and going without her.

"Good morning," he whispered as she felt his head lift next to hers, placing a small kiss on her cheek. She couldn't help the smile growing on her lips. She shifted around so she could face him, lying down as he leaned over her.

"So why the change?" she asked.

"You shouldn't be asking me," he smirked, "you was tossing and turning all night. You even almost kicked me out of bed a couple of times."

"Oh," she felt her cheeks heat up, sinking further into the bed. Her voice barely above a whisper, "sorry."

"Don't be, I think you was dreaming about the final battle today," he reassured, "I'm surprised I didn't do it to you before, like before a gym battle or something."

She couldn't help but chuckle at his joke, she looked and just stared into his eyes. They sparked filled with love and encouragement. She loved that he has been so supportive over this festival and while she would like to enjoy the moment together, her Pokegear beeped and drew her attention. She reached over and grabbed it off the bedside table, pulling it between herself and Ash. Seeing the new message received, she couldn't help the large smile growing on her face.

"What's that?" he asked.

She quickly turned it off and placed it back on the table, "a surprise," she smirked. Pushing herself up, she pecked his lips before sitting up and causing him to do the same thing. "I'm gonna take a shower but I think you should start getting ready too."

"Alright," he replied, his eyebrow raising in confusion, "but this isn't like you. We still have plenty of time before you need to get to the Contest Hall and you normally like at least a little cuddle time."

"I do," she agreed, "but your gonna need to trust me on this one."

Not waiting for another response, she stood up and skipped across the room. Picking out a set of clothes for her outfit and a couple towels, she made her way into the bathroom and closed the door behind her. She was quick to get washed and once she was done, wrapped a towel around her. She quickly left the room and Ash went in for his own shower.

Hurrying best she could, it was about twenty minutes before she was finished in her own outfit and Ash stepped out of the bathroom in his own attire. She wasn't sure if she should feel embarrassed that Ash showered and dressed in the time it took her to dress herself or if it meant Ash just didn't take as much care. Not that it really mattered, so she slumped her bag over one shoulder and once Ash had his own stuff secure, she grabbed his hand lead him out the room, barely giving him chance to lock up behind them. She couldn't help it; she was super excited about the surprise.

Entering the lift, they stood side by side and waited as it slowly descended down to the ground level. She quickly dragged him out of the hotel and across the street into the Pokémon centre. Once there, she was quick to drag her boyfriend out as he struggled to keep up. Knowing where the surprise was, she made a bee-line straight for a booth in the Pokémon centre lobby next to a window.

"Serena, could you slow down for a second please," Ash asked, as they came to a stop in front of the area. The only occupant turned to face them with a mock-frown and her arms folded in an angry manner.

"What's the matter Ashton Ketchum, aren't you happy to see me?" she asked.

"Leaf?" Ash questioned, as he turned to face her.

Said brunette dropped her mock-anger act and jumped forward engulfing both of them in a bone crushing hug. Leaf didn't stand out much in terms of stature, but she was definitely strong, and Serena was reminded of that as she gasped for breath. Luckily, she only held it for a few seconds before releasing them both.

"It's so good to see you guys again," she smiled, taking her seat once more. Serena was quick to follow and took a seat opposite her, pulling Ash down to the one next to her.

"It hasn't been that long, has it?" Ash asked, "I mean, we met up just before Blackthorn."

"That was hardly a proper meet up," Leaf frowned, "and you was being all mister grumpy pants, so it doesn't count."

"Hehehe," Ash chuckled nervously, "well I was able to get my head on straight since then."

"I see," she smirked, "I assume Serena worked her magic on you then."

Said honey-blonde girl narrowed her eyes at her best friend. She knew Leaf was just teasing and they were well past being embarrassed by their relationship now.

"I was kidding," Leaf threw her hands up in an exaggerated manner.

"So Leaf, I assume Drake is here as well?" Ash asked.

"Yeah," she smiled, "he's at the desk getting us rooms for our stay."

"Rooms?" Serena questioned.

"Yes, rooms with an s," Leaf sighed, "it seems no matter what I try, he's oblivious to anything not Pokémon related."

Serena gave a discrete side glance at her own boyfriend.

"I know the feeling," she nodded in agreement.

"Hey!" Ash cried out.

Serena couldn't help but chuckle at her boyfriend, leaning over to him, she placed a small peck on his lips before pulling back and looking directly into his eyes, "shush now, Ash, our friend was talking."

"Urg," Leaf's voice echoed out. Serena turned to see the brunette making a gagging noise as she poked her finger towards her mouth, "I thought you was here to listen to me mope abou-"

Serena couldn't help but chuckle at her friends over-the-top reaction. Even though Leaf was always a big supporter of Serena pursuing her crush back in Pallet Town, it probably didn't help her current predicament. Although seeing a figure approach across the lobby, she knew she couldn't let her friend finish.

"Hey Drake!" she smiled, as her boyfriend's brother closed in, cutting the bubbly brunette off.

He responded by raising his hand and flicking it to one side in a single wave motion. His face was stoic, and his arms fell to his side in a pretty solider-like manner, but the biggest change was his hair. Unlike Ash's, it was now short, and he didn't even have a hat on his head. It wasn't anything special, quite the opposite actually.

"Here," he turned to Leaf, sliding a key across the table towards her, "room forty-three."

"Thanks," she smiled at him, catching the key in an open hand, "what room did you get?"

"Twenty-seven," he replied.

"You couldn't have got them any further apart," Leaf sarcastically thought to herself. While Serena felt bad about using her psychic powers without expressed permission, Leaf's face pretty much said the same thing and she knew it wasn't anything secret... other than to Drake himself, of course.

"What time is your battle?" Drake asked, snapping Serena back to the real world.

"Huh?" she asked.

"The final of your grand festival," Drake clarified, "what time is your battle?" he asked.

"Oh err, it starts at ten, so I've got nearly an hour before I need to leave," she replied, "and the others are going to meet us here as well."

"Others?" Drake raised his eyebrow.

"Yeah, there's Serena's cousin Calem and his girlfriend Miette," Ash replied, "then their Grace, Misty, Brock, Jimmy and Marina too."

"Oh, those are those new trainers you met when you first got to Johto right," Leaf interjected.

"Right," Serena nodded in agreement, "and they are really nice. I bet you'll get on great with them."

"Thanks but no thanks," Drake replied, "I want to get some training in whilst we're here and since we can't come to watch you compete in the stadium, might as well do it now."

"We only couldn't get tickets because you wouldn't let me buy them as soon as they went on sale and so they sold out!" Leaf accused.

"It would've been a waste of money if Serena hadn't made it, though," Drake shrugged, glancing at Serena for little more than a second, "no offense."

"None taken?" she questioned, not quite sure how to take his comment.

It wasn't exactly directed at her or a proper insult, but it showed he didn't exactly have faith in her but then again, he probably never watched any of her contests and only heard about them from Leaf. After all, the competing coordinators get a set amount of free tickets which is how her friends were able to easily get seats and according to her mum, she brought her's as soon as it went on sale.

"Plus I'm not exactly a people person," Drake threw his hands into his pockets.

"At least meet them," Ash pleaded.

"Fine," he rolled his eyes around.

Serena couldn't help but not that Drake was even more irritable than normal. He never was a people person, but he usually just kept quiet about it and waited for it to be over so maybe something happened over the last few weeks. Maybe Ash will be able to find out about it whilst they're here. He doesn't have a large list of people he'd open up to.

Ash flopped down onto his seat and turned towards the stage. Several multicoloured lights were flashing around in a clear show of some sort but without any sort of Pokémon involved or Serena or anything, he quickly lost interest. Turning his attention downward, he was ready to enjoy the snack he picked up... only to see his starter with a mouth full of fries.

"What!" he cried out, as Pikachu took a large gulp to swallow what little remained of his food, "why Pikachu?"

"I was hungry," Pikachu shrugged.

"Then you should've mentioned it and I would've brought you some!" he cried out.

"I thought that was obvious, I'm a growing mon," Pikachu quipped, "if you wanted some then you should've said."

"But I brought them!" Ash cried out, "that should've been obvious!"

"Don't talk to me about obvious Mister I go into gym battles with the obvious wrong type," Pikachu retorted, placing his hands on his not very defined hips, "or should I mention the obvious hints you missed from Serena before you got together? Or-"

"Okay, you proven your point," Ash stopped him.

Pikachu's smirked told Ash that it was pointless trying to continue this argument. Besides, even if he won he wouldn't get the fries back. Sighing, he turned as someone took the seat next to him but much to his surprise, it wasn't Calem. It was Grace.

"Huh?" he questioned.

"What's the matter?" she asked.

"Oh err, nothing," he stuttered, turning his attention forward, "I-I was just expecting Calem. Since, well, you know, that's where he's sat for the rest of the grand festival."

"That's simple, he wanted to spend time with Miette and since no-one was sat next to me, I offered to change seats," she smiled, one which put Ash right on edge, "I hope this won't be a problem. I mean, you are dating my daughter so we should spend some time together."

Ash could only nod in agreement with her as it did make sense. Back in Pallet town, he spent a little time with her but only when visiting her house to play with Serena and even then, they probably spent more time at the lab over anywhere else. He never really got the sense that she disapproved of their relationship, but it was still intimidating regardless... give him three legendary birds destroying the Earths' climate or a clone of a psychic legendary also trying to destroy the world.

Although his attention was soon drawn as the lights show faded and a single spotlight appeared at the back of the stage. Lilian ran out onto the stage, the light following her, as full of energy as ever.

"Welcome everyone to the long awaited final of this year's Johto Grand Festival!" Lilian announced among the roaring crowd, "but before we get onto our main of event of today and the final battle, we have a special guest performance by a Johto superstar. She has been working with our own special guest judge Palermo on the bringing showcases to the region next circuit. She'll be our acting regional showcase queen until the first official crowning of another! Its Kris-Stal!"

Ash could only watch as a twenty something women ran out on stage. She had long blue flowing hair and dressed in a sparkling black dress. Overhead a Xatu flew over top with a psychic wave emitting off him. A whirlwind of pink petals round up to the left side of the stage, a large Meganium appearing in place. A bright ball fell down on the right side of the stage, a series of white spikes shooting out in all directions but as the brightness fade, a Corsola landed opposite Meganium.

A Psybeam, Petal Blizard and Spike Canon all shot towards the centre of stage and collided into a sort of explosion. Kris ran through the impact and as she came out, her dress had caught fire although the lack of panic from both herself and her Pokémon made it clear this was planned. It burned away, revealing a cheer-leader outfit which was coloured of different shades of blue. As she began to dance around with her team of Pokémon in one swift flowing motion.

"So Ash, that is the sister of that friend of yours correct?" Grace asked, drawing Ash's attention away from the show, "Marina."

"Err, yeah. I think so but I've never actually met her," Ash stuttered slightly.

Ash couldn't help but think there was another reason his girlfriend's mother decided to grab his attention at that exact moment. It's not like he has had any interest in other females like he does Serena. He will admit that many are very attractive, but he is loyal to Serena and always will be.

By the time he refocused back on the actual performance happening, it was nearly done. Corsola was circling around Kris, shooting out several water attack to decorate the one on one dance she was doing within the psychic wind tunnel with her Xatu. Several pink petals added to it but not enough to cover the performer. A powerful blast of wind shot outwards as rain drops and petal dance petals sprinkled down over the four performers. All of them bowing as the crowd erupted in applause.

"And please join me in giving our special guest performer, Kris Style a big round of applause!" Lilian announced as she ran onto the stage.

The audience only grew in applause as Marina's sister gave them a bow, along with her Pokémon. The elder performer waited as the crowd continued to shower her in applause before treating off the stage from the entrance Lilian normally uses instead of one of the side wings where the coordinators waits.

"Now it's the time you've all been waiting for everyone," Lilian announced, "so help me in welcoming our two finalists to the stage, Serena Yvonne and Solidad Saori!"

As the lights on the stage went down, two spotlights appeared on either side of the stage. Ash flinched as the crowd erupted in applause, peering down he saw his girlfriend walking out on one side and Solidad on the other. It didn't take them long to reach their trainer's box.

"Now it's time for our final battle of this year's Grand Festival!" Lilian announced, "our two finalists shall compete in a best of three battle, where whoever wins two out of the three rounds shall be crowned as this year's victor and given the title of a top coordinator along with our specially made Ribbon Cup! As always the battles will be one on one and last for five minutes. Both trainers have registrared their teams but because there are multiple rounds, Solidad shall reveal her Pokémon first."

"Show time, Butterfree!" Solidad declared.

She tossed her Pokeball into the air and in a flash of light her bug flying type appeared, floating above the stage. It did multiple twirls before coming to a stop, floating just in front of its trainer. Ash couldn't help but feel his heart ping at the sight of the butterfly Pokémon, remembering his first caught Pokémon from back in Kanto.

"Then I choose you, Delphox!" Serena declared.

Serena held her own Pokeball and a flash of light shot out onto the stage. Her starter materialised in front of her and stood tall. It was difficult to make out but Butterfree raised itself up, probably as a way to exude dominance by looking down. Delphox brought her stick out of the fur tuff down one of her arms.

"The objective for both sides in this battle is to reduce their opponents points to zero first!" Lilian announced as she ran over towards the judges panel, "five minutes on the clock. Delphox verses Butterfree and... begin!"

Serena verses Solidad: Round One

Serena could only watch as Butterfree raised herself high above the stage. Dancing through the air as bright lights appeared around her. She clenched her fist as she knew that they were boosting up to make up for the type advantage Delphox has.

Her starter, however, didn't waste a second. She did a spin, extending the stick as a powerful stream of flames shot out.

They quickly covered the distance but barely missed as Butterfree as she danced out of the way, swooping just below them. Her antenna's extended and vibrated quickly as a sort of dark green sound wave shot out underneath.

"Light Screen!" Serena shouted.

A bright yellow box engulfed Delphox moments before the Bug Buzz struck her. She was pushed back as the flames came to an end although as the light screen faded, she appeared completely unharmed.

"Powder!" Solidad countered.

Butterfree began flapping her wings and a mixture of purple and golden power fell down onto the breeze. It floated down towards Serena's Fox Pokémon.

Delphox however was ready, she began spinning around as her eyes glew blue. A wave of psychic energy engulfed Butterfree's powders and redirected them around her in a circle. Setting them on fire, she launched them back at her opponent in a wide range cover.

Despite Solidad's butterfly's best efforts, she was caught within the burning powders. As the flames dispersed, an electrical static appeared over her body as she was temporarily stunted, falling closer to the ground.

"Flame Charge!" Serena shouted.

She knew Delphox preferred long ranged attacks, but she couldn't let up this opportunity.

Her fire psychic starter began charging at the stunned Butterfree, her body bursting into bright orange flames. Her speed quickly increased as Butterfree seemed to regain control and began to climb

She slammed into the bug flying type, sending her flying high into the air in a ball of fire. Delphox landed back on the floor on one knee.

Butterfree regained control of herself and looped down, launching another Bug Buzz straight down. Normally, the Fox Pokémon wouldn't have been able to dodge it in time but thanks to previously setting up the Light Screen which reappeared to intercept the blast.

Getting back to her feet, Delphox launched out a powerful Flamethrower straight up. Despite the static over her body, Butterfree's open wings caught the hot air exuding off the flames, pushing her out of the way of the flames.

"We need to bring Butterfree down for a clear shot!" Serena called out, "even when paralysed she is too far away to get a proper hit on!"

Her starter turned back and gave a nod to indicate she heard. Extending her stick above her, she spun it around to have a wall of fire drop over them. Completely engulfed by the flames, she began spinning around as the flames erupted upwards as a type of fire tornado.

Butterfree used the same limited tactic to avoid the flames to begin with but Delphox wasn't deterred.

She continued to spin around the field, trapping Butterfree in a massive fire tornado which was slowly closing in. Only the Shallotte's could be seen as the flames surrounding Serena's fire psychic type moved up into a disk at the tip of her branch.

A massive get of fire shot up through the centre of the tornado.

"And Delphox creates a massive fire display in the design of a volcano!" Lilian announced, "a true master display over her element!"

The flames exploded outwards, ending in a shower of burning embers floating down around them. Delphox was panting heavily as the small fires shimmered off her shiny fur and Butterfree landed in front of her, covered in burn marks and soot, static still sparking over her body but swirls replacing her eyes.

A loud buzzer sounded.

"Butterfree is unable to continue, meaning that Serena won this round through knock out," Lilian declared, "although the main point of contests is the showcasing of skill over power so any other knock outs on Serena's part won't count towards her score."

Serena's eyes widened as she realised that she couldn't just power through and knock out her opponents. She glanced up towards the screen in hopes of seeing that the volcano helped her in the points, but the screen had already switched to a massive score board instead showing Serena was leading one to nothing.

Turning back towards the stage, she saw Solidad recalling her burnt Butterfree. She appeared to whisper something to her Pokeball before clipping it back to her belt, although she soon focused on her own Pokémon as Delphox approached her. She couldn't help but smile at her starter, even if not idea to win as one through knock out instead of by points, it still worked perfectly for them.

"Thank you Delphox, you did wonderfully," she smiled pulling her Pokeball off the belt.

"It was my pleasure," Delphox mentally replied, a smile on her face, "I would've liked to do the final battle, but it made sense based on who Solidad was using so just do me a favour and win this."

Serena smiled at her starter, chuckling at her determination showing up between her. Even if that relationship is over, she did seem to pick up a thing or two from Ash's Charizard. Seeing Lilian running back onto the stage, as a Xatu teleported next to her, Serena recalled her starter.

"And whilst we get the field reset for our next round, let's see what our judges thought," Lilian announced, as the Xatu began using psychic to clear away the remains from the battle.

"A lovely fire display for sure," Mr Contesta started, "it's something that would've made a perfect appeals performance but remember contests aren't about pure power and that is why we put in the one knockout victory for this final battle."

"It was remarkable," Mr Sukizo added.

"Certainly, intense," Palermo scrawled, "but the firepower was too blinding. The display, while impressive, had too much happening to allow Delphox to shine."

Serena bite her lower lip as she let those criticisms sink in. She knew that Palermo had been critical to everyone throughout the festival, but couldn't she lighten up for the final at least? It's almost like she doesn't want to be here at all.

"Well now that the field is set, let's see who our finalists will use for the second round!" Lilian announced before running back to the judges panel, the Xatu also teleporting back off the stage, "and let's see if Serena will make this a clean sweep or if Solidad can make a comeback. Serena shall reveal her Pokémon first!"

Serena's hand hovered over her two remaining Pokeballs, she knew that she didn't have anything to make an informed decision but out of her two Pokémon, one is far more experienced at battling so its best she save that one for the last round. With her decision made, she clipped the Pokeball off into her hand and held it out.

"I choose you, Ampharos!" she shouted.

In a flash of light, her pure electric type appeared on the stage. She loomed high over Serena in terms of height. She turned to look at her with the usual caring and nurturing look before her friendly smile formed into a smirk. Her eyebrow lowering into a battle glare. Turning back to face Solidad, she slammed her tail onto the ground in a threatening manner, as the light at its end burst on.

Serena couldn't help but smile, even if not the most battle-hungry Pokémon, Ampharos is sure going to do her best if that is any indication.

"Then I'll go with Lapras!" Solidad announced, tossing her Pokeball up into the air, "go!"

It burst open and with a heavy thud on the ground, a large Lapras landed right between Ampharos and Solidad. While it's been quite a while since she last saw Ash's Lapras but this one looked quite a lot bigger than his. It let out a loud echoey cry as she returned the hardened glare.

"Five minutes on the clock. Ampharos verses Lapras and...!" Lilian declared, "begin!"

Serena verses Solidad: Round Two

Serena couldn't help but flurry her browl in confusion at Solidad's choice for this match up. She knew Solidad was a skilled coordinator, but she never really came across as arrogant, so why deliberately go with a type disadvantage. Of course, she has no clue who her last Pokémon is but Lapras wasn't a smart decisions from this perspective.

Ampharos crouched forward and raised her tail, a powerful bolt of electricity shooting out and straight towards Solidad's transport Pokémon.

Lapras let out an echoey cry as a powerful mist spread out from under her shell. She could barely make out an icy wind blowing out of her opponents mouth before the Thunderbolt struck the misty wall. It broke into two weaker bolts and slit down the middle of the mist.

Smashing into the wall behind her, the mist faded to reveal Lapras completely fine.

"Ice share's many properties with water but its unique in both being conductive but not completely," Solidad informed, "with our mist trick, we can redirect any single bolts."

"Signal Beam!" Serena shouted.

Ampharos stood up as the jewel on her forehead shined under the stage lights. A powerful beam filled with Bug type energy shot out across the field.

Lapras swung her head around as a ball of ice formed at her mouth. An Ice beam shot out of it as she thrusted her head forward. The two attacks collided around the middle of the field and evened out as both sides tried to win the power struggle.

Ampharos struggled to step forward despite the power battle going on. Her feet digging into the ground to stable herself all the more.

Several white balls formed around her and one after another shot parrel to the two beams. Her power Gems struck Lapras head on, making her slide back across the floor and cancel her Ice Beam. As she shook her head from the impact, the signal beam struck as well.

"And Ampharos wins the power battle with some quick thinking!" Lilian announced.

Serena's pure electric type ran forward as Lapras recovered. Jumping, she locked onto Lapras' back.

A powerful ball of electricity surrounded them and Lapras cried out. The electricity faded and revealed Lapras slumped down, her head on the ground with Ampharos panting heavily on her back. Serena held her breath as she waited to see if Lapras was taken down like Butterfree.

"Now!" Solidad shouted.

Lapras' eyes burst open and another mist exhaled from her shell. The transports Pokémon head raised up, showing she still had fight left in her.

Ampharos tried to make her way back to Serena's side of the field but she stopped shortly in front of Lapras. Looking down, Serena saw ice trapping her electric types foot on the field. Her light Pokémon began to panic as she struggled in an attempt to break free.

Lapras extended up behind the pure electric type. Rapid fire, balls of ice formed at her mouth before shooting out and orbiting around the trapped Ampharos. Solidad's water ice type began to glow in a healing light as the mist contained both Pokémon, becoming the only source of light.

"Discharge!" Serena shouted in a panic.

Bolts of electricity shot out of the mist but to no-avail. The stage was now a misty and icy set, like a cold winters morning along with an eerie tune echoing around to add to its creepy factor. It was almost like Lapras was performing an appeals performance and her Ampharos was helpless to stop it.

A loud buzzer sounded.

"With still a minute and a half on the clock, Solidad was able to reduce her opponents points to zero!" Lilian announced. The mist began to fade from the stage, revealing Ampharos still trapped with one leg completely encased in ice and the rest of her ready to fall over. Bruises and scratches all over her body as it was clear the ice shards had been chipping away during that display, "a wonderful performance of ice which also used her opponents own electricity to add in an extra sparkle!"

Not wanting to see her electric type suffer for any longer than needed, Serena pulled out her Pokeball and recalled Ampharos. Once she was secure in the device, she looked down on it with a sad smile. Her fingers loosely rubbing it. Ampharos did her best Lapras and Solidad were just too prepared, despite the type advantage they held.

Clipping the device to her belt, she looked across the field to see Solidad returning her own Pokémon with a smile on her face. It was clear she was proud of her transport Pokémon, of course she should be, Lapras did great. Although now she only has one chance left to win this festival.

"Now to see what our judges made of that battle as our Xatu resets the stage," Lilian announced, just as said psychic flying type appeared once more, "let's start with Palermo."

"It was decent but that was an obvious appeals performance modified for combat," she critiqued, "when in the battle round, we want to see an actual battle."

"I thought it was remarkable," Mr Sukizo added.

"Lapras truly set the stage and gave me chills through the atmosphere created," Mr Contesta continued, "it was like watching a professional theatre performance."

She reached for the final Pokeball on her belt and clenched it as she watched Lilian run back across the stage. It doesn't matter who releases their Pokémon first now since both are pre-selected.

"Now time for our final match up, the winner of this battle shall be the newest top coordinator and winner of this year's Johto grand festival," Lilian announced, "so let's see who our coordinators have saved for the last battle of this exciting festival."

"I choose you, Sylveon!" Serena shouted.

Tossing the small device up into the air, it burst open and her fairy type eeveelution dropped onto the floor right in front of her. She stood tall, her feelers extending outwards as if to make herself more intimidating. Honestly, Serena couldn't have pictured any other Pokémon taking on this final battle.

"And now it's your turn, Golem!" Solidad shouted.

Her own Pokeball burst open and in a flash of light, her Golem appeared high above her. Immediately, he fell down and landed on the field with a heavy thud. The aftershock caused Serena to stumble but looking at her fairy type, she was able to remain stable, mainly thanks to her feelers balancing out her stance.

"Five minutes on the clock. Sylveon verses Golem and...!" Lilian declared, "begin!"

Serena verses Solidad: Round Three

Serena could only watch as a series of rocks began orbiting around him. He stomped a foot forward and thrusted both arms in front of him. The rocks began to fly forward across the stage.

Sylveon began jumping across the field, charging head first into the oncoming barrage. She began dancing around, avoiding the Stone Edge. Although her feelers did have to knock a few away before they struck her.

Landing in front of Golem, her feelers wrapped around his two arms before leaping over his head. She landed behind him and threw her whole weight.

However, Golem didn't budge. Instead, he stepped forward and threw his arms forward, dragging Sylveon along with him. She slammed into Golem's back as he pushed himself up. She went flying above him and her feelers loosened as a result, freeing him once move.

She was quick to recover, twisting her body to face him as she flew through the air. Forming a bright Moonblast at her mouth, she launched it down onto the Megaton Pokémon as she landed opposite him.

It imploded against his arm, which he raised to block it. Smoke covered his face, but it soon faded and both Pokémon were squaring off once more.

Golem began running forward and curled up into a ball, rolling straight across the stage.

Sylveon began whipping her feelers around and a powerful just of wind with sparkling fairy type energy within it. The Fairy Wind struck Golem and it slightly knocked him off course, sending the Megaton Pokémon sailing past Sylveon.

"Look out!" Serena called out.

Golem wasn't completely knocked off from the Fairy Wind and was already turning around to ram into Sylveon's back with the same Rollout.

Luckily, Sylveon was able to guess what she meant straight away. Her feelers hit the floor and caused her to jump in place.

She landed on top of the Rolling Golem. She struggled to match the pace, but she was able to gain her stability thanks to her feelers helping with balance. Serena couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, it was almost like something you'd expect to see in a circus. Guess Sylveon has been learning from her boyfriend for battles.

"Knock her off!" Solidad shouted.

It suddenly became very rough for Sylveon as Golem was steering around, still rolling but Sylveon was clearly struggling.

She was thrown forward and slide along the floor as Golem jumped forward and exited his roll out, as if planning on body slamming Sylveon.

"Throw him!" Serena shouted.

The Fairy type eeveelution sent her feelers up and wrapped her feelers around Golem's limbs. Thanks to not having the ground to stabilise himself, and also for him also having momentum in that direction already, she was able to throw him over the field.

He landed flat on his back and Sylveon withdrew her feelers, launching another Moonblast at him.

Golem was quick to get back up and despite the Moonblast imploding on his back, he wasn't deterred.

Not wanting to give him the chance to get a chance to get back into a lead position, since it's evident that strength-wise he holds the advantage. Sylveon launched another Fairy Wind across the field.

The rock ground type wasn't even swayed by the blast but instead slammed his foot on the ground, causing a block of earth to throw up between his back and Sylveon.

It quickly began rushing across the floor and Sylveon had to end her attack to jump on top of it, again using her feelers to get the height. She quickly leaped off it and disappeared from Serena's sight.

As the earth wall crumbled down back into the ground, the two Pokémon were revealed once more.

Sylveon was up close and swiftly dancing around Golem, even going between his legs or over his head. Her feelers helping by knocking his limbs away when they would've stopped her. As Solidad's Megaton Pokémon was clenching both fists with and trying to land direct Mega Punches.

A glance up to the score board revealed why. Both sides were losing chunks of points at an alarming rate, but even more stressing is the fact the timer is running out. It's clear that Solidad is trying to make it a knockout victory since Golem lacks the finesse that some of her other Pokémon have or even Sylveon herself.

"Pull back!" Serena called out.

Luckily, Sylveon got the idea of what she meant, as she stood in front of the Megaton Pokémon. Golem stomped his foot down and a chunk of earth shot up under her.

Sylveon used it as a launching pad and summersaulted over the rock ground type. Her feelers extended out as she landed on all fours, wrapping her feelers around his arms, and pulled back on them as he struggled against her.

She also formed a Moonblast at her mouth and quickly launched it, throwing Golem down as he was about to pull her forward once again.

A loud buzzer sounded.

"And that's time!" Lilian announced, "the winner of this battle and of this year's Johto Grand Festival is... Serena Yvonne!"

As the crowd erupted in cheers, Serena stood still, her eyes darting around as the loud noise became almost like a silencing beep. She felt something soft wrap around her hand and looking down showed it was one of Sylveon's feelers. Smiling at her eeveelution, she glanced above the fairy type to see Solidad approaching the middle of the stage with her Golem, both also clapping while smiling at her.

It felt like her heart was going to explode at the rate it was beating. A slight tug on her hand made her realise they were waiting for her to join them. Slowly she approached her opponent and the host as the applause started to calm down. Deep breaths also helped her calm herself, even if it felt like this was just some sort of dream.

"Now we will give our winner today a chance to calm down before our closing ceremony," Lilian announced, "and to help pass the time, we have our third-fourth battle between Miette and Amelia."

Sighing in relief that she would have some time to relax and let this sink, Serena began to walk off the stage as the crowd cheered once more, Sylveon by her side. While she would love to go and meet her friends, she knew it would be best to just wait in the changing room and let this all sink in.

Walking through the doors into the dressing room, she let out a sigh of relief, relaxing her body. A peaceful silence, complete contrast to the stage, filled the atmosphere. The cool air hit her skin, indicating to herself just how hot she actually was. Not surprising, the stage along with the bright lights are incredibly hot and it's also one of the reasons why contests have their battles on a time limit. Glancing around the room, she walked over towards an empty chair in front of the mirror.

Slumping down on the seat, Serena couldn't even bring herself to properly pull her seat in as she slide down into a more comfortable position. She glanced up to see her reflection in the mirror. Her hair trickled down over one of her eyes. She took a deep breath, blowing up to knock it out of the way before she broke out in a massive smile.

Her fisted hands shot out in front of her as she punched the air, throwing her head back in excitement. The grand festival is finally over... and she won.

A soft creek echoed through her ears and she instantly turned towards the source, upon seeing who had entered the room, her face dropped. She stood up, like a soldier in a drill. Her arms fell to her side as her eyes refused to blink.

Stood in the door way was Palermo.

She entered the room and let the door fall shut behind her. Her eyes darted around but Serena could tell that she was examining her. Her lips stuck in a permanent frown and eyebrows lowered to give her eyes a critical scowl.

As the door shut, the slam felt like it made Serena's heart stop with it, as she closed her lips, refusing to let in a breath. Her spin straightening itself to its maximum capability and it surely made her a good two inches taller. Part of Serena wanted to use a hand to fix her hair, but they refused to move.

Serena wasn't sure of the actual amount of time, but each second felt like an hour as she stared down the showcase owner. Her eyes begging for the chance to blink but her mind to scared to. Eventually, they could out last and she had to close them for a brief second. As they reopened, she found the elderly women approaching her.

"I just wanted to congratulate you on your performance over the last week," she stated.

"Huh?" Serena questioned, quickly realising the response her hand jumped to cover her mouth. Much to her surprise, however, Palermo's mouth, at least the corner, flicked up in a smile for a brief second.

"Your probably wondering why I would come out of my way when I've been nothing but critical throughout this festival," she replied, to which Serena could only nod in agreement with that statement, "it's simple really. You did good in this festival and have earnt your title. But the reason I was so critical is because there is always room to improve. Whether you're a top coordinator, a league champion, a showcase queen or even a regional champion."

"You should never become satisfied with where you are otherwise you'll stagnate and fall. If no-one is critical and points out these flaws, or indeed if you never notice them yourself, then how could you improve? If I had the time then I would be glad to go through your final battle in more detail but alas, I have a meeting with the acting Johto queen."

She turned around and went to open the door, a slow creek echoing as she stepped out of the room, her hand moving from the handle to the side of the door. Although, she stopped and turned around to look at Serena once again. Serena straightened up once more as she felt the critical eye once more.

"Tell me dear," Palermo eyes softly closed, "what do you plan to do now that you're a top coordinator?"

"Well," Serena wondered aloud, "my boyfriend is competing in the Silver conference so I'm going to support him."

"Noble," Palermo nodded, "I never was one for romance but I moreso meant what you'd do in terms of your own journey. You have a couple great titles under your belt, a grand duchess and top coordinator. You still have a lot of time between now and the league and I highly doubt your boyfriend will be battling continuously."

"I-err," Serena stuttered, "I don't know."

"Well then, if I may be so green, why not look into showcases," Palermo suggested, "I know you've obviously already travelled across Kanto and Johto, but they are also opening up in Hoenn. Obviously, it's up to you but if you have nothing else in mind then it might be worth looking into... whilst you support your boyfriend, of course."

"I-I guess it wouldn't hurt," Serena uttered, "thank you."

The corner of Palermo's mouth flicked up in a small smile but for no-more than a second once again. She turned back around, still holding the door open, "although don't think this means you'll get an easy ride if you do decide to compete. Your title won today won't buy any sort of victory in my showcases."

Serena nodded in understanding and the elderly women walked out of the room, allowing the door to close behind her. With her gone, Serena slumped back into her seat as she released in breath. She knew that she has been struggling with what to do and so she was thankful for the suggestion. It was also nice to get a better insight on the elderly women and she isn't nearly as scary as when she was criticizing everyone.

"Excuse me," a quiet voice appeared as the door peaked open, a stage worker appearing behind it, "sorry to bother you, Ms Yvonne but your needed back on stage for the closing ceremony."

Nodding in understanding, Serena stood back up. She looked in the mirror and quickly placed the loose strand of hair behind her ear. She also pulled down her blouse to straighten her outfit. Turning towards the worker, she quickly crossed the room, as the worker opened the door wider and she walked out, following the worker to the stage.

Serena took a deep breath as she waited on the lift at the back of the stage, this was what Lilian usually used for her appearances. She couldn't quite make out the stage, but bright lines flashed above her among the cheering crowd.

"Now help me in welcoming our second and third placement coordinators back to the stage!" Lilian announced, "its Solidad Saori and Miette Millefeui!"

The crowd cheered once more as presumably her two female friends walked out on stage. Serena remembers seeing Miette beat Amelia in that third-fourth place battle and the rich girl stormed off afterwards so presumably she didn't stick around for the closing ceremony. It took a couple of minutes before calming down.

"Now help me in greeting our newest top coordinator and the victor of this year's Johto Grand Festival!" Lilian announced, as the lift began raising. Serena felt her heart beat increase once more the audience and lights came into view once more, "its Serena Yvonne!"

Her ears were assaulted with a large eruption of cheers as she came to a stop on the stage. She waited a moment to be sure the device was done before cautiously walking forward to where Lilian was stood, the three judges beside her. Opposite them were both Solidad and Miette, who were clapping in a more mannered style while smiling proudly at her. It felt like forever, but she soon came to a stop next to the host of the contests. A couple moments after reaching her destination, the cheers died down.

"My dear," Mr Contesta stepped forward, a ribbon cup in hand, "you have shown a great talent in showing of your Pokémon to the best of their ability. Not just in strength but in style and finesse and have truly deserved this victory. Well done."

He held out the golden trophy and Serena took it in hand. It wasn't so heavy, but the awkward shape meant she had to use both hands for holding it. It was a large hallow metal trophy with a silver plack on the wooden stand. Holding it up she saw the plank had: Johto Grand Festival Winner: Serena Yvonne, written on it.

"Tell me dear, do you know what else this means?" he asked, drawing her attention from the trophy.

"I erm, not really. Sorry," she admitted. She knew it meant she won the title and this trophy, but it was likely there were several other things that came along with it, but she never really looked into them, focused more on actually competing.

"Well," he started, "it first means you'll be one of few trainers who have proven themselves and thus now has the privilege to carry seven Pokémon at a time with you. Of course, you'll be restricted to whatever limitations your competition you partake in, but you can have seven Pokémon on your person at any time."

Serena's eyes widened at that new information; she knew league winners had that privilege but apparently so do any winners of regional tournaments. It would certainly be nice to have but hopefully it won't be awkward with her friends not having it. Maybe it'll be easier when Ash wins the Silver Conference so he can have the privilege as well.

"It also means you'll be a more public figure for contests and should we need to, we would request your assistance in them," he added, "don't worry, we wouldn't expect you to go out of your way by any means but it could be for special performances or appearances. Maybe even an interview or two."

That made sense, although Serena couldn't help but feel that would be more coordinators who were famous like Wallace or even Kris. She couldn't imagine herself being like the star performer who just turns up.

"And that brings me onto our closing notes!" Lilian jumped forward, as ever full of energy, "tune in tomorrow to the DJ Mary show, which'll be live from our own Goldenrod radio tower, at ten o'clock sharp. She'll be speaking too our top three finalists starting with Miette!"

As the crowd cheered once more, Serena felt her eyes widen at that information. She knew Ash had to do interviews when in the leagues and she always reassured him he'd be fine but now that she had to be the one interviewed, she felt her nervousness creep in. At least when competing on stage, she can focus on the performance or battle.

Silver dropped the money onto the counter and took the tray of dirty fries from the vendor. He hated this sort of gunk for food, but he couldn't exact go out far with the police swarming around the city. From the whispers within the cities scum, apparent someone big was due to arrive tomorrow at the radio tower. He knew these kind of low lives to know it wasn't a celebrity or anything but a powerful criminal and what he knows about Rocket being held up there leads him to the logical conclusion of his father.

Walking back down towards the abandoned underground subway tracks, these have been retired from use ever since the Magnet train was set up between Goldenrod and Saffron. It was grimy and not even the wild Ratatta were around, making it perfect hiding place. He began biting through his dinner as he thought about the best way to handle those rocket scum.

He may be planning on killing but just an all-out assault would only get those low level grunts before he was caught. Besides, it's better to take out the figure heads, those will make the biggest difference in stopping the organisation and if his suspicions are correct. He'll get to kill the man who started this all.

Giovanni.

Of course, he'll need to get close to those in charge so storming in won't work. He can easily steal some clothes from the nearby vendors to help blend into the background, but it would be stupid to go in without back up... having a massive Feraligatr wouldn't help blend in either. The obvious choice then, is Gengar, he can blend into the shadows and intervene if needed but with that Grand Festival thing going on and Giovanni arriving, an unaccounted for man wouldn't get past the lobby.

A distraction would help but not one to put them in lockdown, more of an annoyance. Maybe if he got-

A series of footsteps echoed down the subway tunnels, bringing Silver's thoughts to an end. No-one would be walking down here, even the homeless have better options so whoever is down here could be trouble. Standing up to face that way, it was too dark to make anything out. He took out a Pokeball and released his Weavile. The sharp claw Pokémon is swift and light on his feet, so he won't make a noise, unlike the heavy set of Feraligatr or someone. Plus, his eye sight is some of the best in pure darkness.

The ice dark type looked up at him and he put a finger up to his lips, indicating him to be quiet, before pointing down the tunnel. His Weavile nodded in understanding before setting of without a sound. Silver followed behind and his Pokémon kept just in sight but barely.

It didn't take long before they came at what would've been an old station if it wasn't so run down. A single light flickered overhead and his Weavile was stood still, barely at the lights edge, growling threateningly. Glancing up at the platform, he saw a group of people. One was a girl, maybe a year younger than himself, with long blonde hair and dressed in a pure black top with a massive red R on it. A short white skirt and a couple of red bands around the edges. Along with long white combat boots covering her legs.

The others looked vaguely familiar. A man with medium length blue hair, a women with long pointed red hair and a small Meowth stood on its back legs. The two older people also dressed in typical rocket outfits. Silver clenched his fist in anger as his eyes darted between all of them. His Weavile glanced up at him.

His eyes locked with the younger female, who appeared to be in a more confident stance although the pupils of her eyes and sweat trail down her forehead gave away her true fear as she examined him. Feeling nothing but anger boil through his blood, he glanced back down at his Weavile.

"Kill 'em," he growled.

His Weavile charged forward and easily got behind the blonde women towards the bigger group near the back. Silver charged forward himself as the blonde jumped down onto the tracks with a clear gymnastic style leap. As Silver charged for her, he pulled his knife out of his pocket. Might as well start his take down of Team Rocket right now.

Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...