I Wanna Be The Very Best

Chapter 24: Poni Island Debut

After defeating Nanu and earning his final Z crystal. Ash and his friends board the overnight ferry to Poni island. The gang all quickly head off to bed after a tiring day. The gang find themselves comfortably asleep however Ash seems to be stirring as does Pikachu. After trying and failing the fall asleep, the two head out to the top of the ship and find themselves gazing at the Alolan moon. Ash leans over the balcony while Pikachu perches himself on the railing.

Ash takes a deep sigh and says "Do you think it's possible buddy." Pikachu tilts his head with confusion and responds "Pi pika pi." Ash sighs and replies "To finish this final island then get over to Hoeen in a week."

Pikachu shakes his head at his trainers worry and exclaims "Pika, pika pika chu." Ash shakes his head and says "Your right buddy I know I shouldn't worry so much. I know it's impossible to be there for her but you don't understand how worried I am that something bad could happen at the grand festival. Like what if an evil team showed up and I wasn't there to stop it."

Pikachu shakes his head and dismay and points to his heart. "Ash smiles lightly and says "I know I can use aura buddy but being there in person would mean more don't you think." Pikachu shakes his head and points to Ash while exclaiming "Pi, Pika Pi, Pikachu." Ash smiles and says "Your right buddy she's gonna think the exact same way as us. Any support is appreciated and just knowing that the other is watching is all we'll ever need." Pikachu gives Ash a thumbs up and pats him on the back. Happy that he's finally getting over his desperation to make it in Hoenn for the grand festival when that shipped sailed a long time ago. Sure Pikachu agrees that they should be in Melemele or on their way there to greet her when she arrives but getting to the grand festival itself is too much to ask.

The two sit in silence for a few moments before Ash turns towards his electric type partner. He says with a smile on his face "You know what Pikachu, I'm really glad I woke up late when I was set to get my first Pokémon." Pikachu smiles and nods in agreement with his trainer. They stand in a comfortable silence for another few minutes until Ash feels a presence nearby and a sweet fills his ears.

"Ash I'm sorry I missed your battle again, I'm such a terrible girlfriend. Truth is these practice sessions are only getting more intense now I'm so close to the grand festival that I have no time left to do anything else."

Ash smiles hearing Serena's voice and replies "Don't worry Serena, your the best girlfriend ever. Plus if you were skipping out on practice to spy on me I'd be pretty upset. Nothing means more than you doing the best you can at the grand festival."

Serena smiles wholeheartedly hearing her boyfriend is not upset with her. She continues to look through Ash's eyes when she realises that it's been over 30 seconds and the aura connection hasn't dwindled yet. Knowing she doesn't have much time she says in a sterner tone "Ash Ketchum you need to get some sleep or your going to end up getting sick."

As she says that Ash feels her presence disappear as a cold wind blows against his back. Ash noticed it as well. The connection stayed for a few seconds longer than usual that time. It was Barely noticeable but when you've tried so many times you notice even the smallest of improvements. Ash sighs and looks at Pikachu. "Come on buddy we should get to bed. We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow." Pikachu nods and leaps onto Ash's shoulder before making their way back to their room and drifting off to sleep rather easily after their talk with each other and Serena.

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The next morning, Ash and the gang arrive at Poni island and head out of the boat. As they step out on to dry land, Ash takes a deep breath and says "Poni island this is it. Well it's time to finish this challenge strong right Pikachu." Pikachu nods to Ash the gang all step off the boat and begin to follow Ash. After a few seconds a women dressed like a cowgirl steps in front of the gang blocking their direct path.