As Ash and Celeste stepped onto the lush grounds of Lilypad Town, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The sprawling town was bustling with activity, trainers and their pokemon hustling about, some clad in their finest contest attire. Celeste's heart raced with both excitement and nervousness - this contest could mark a turning point in her journey.
Sensing Celeste's jitters, Ash decided it was the perfect time for a change of pace. "Hey, Celeste, how about we take a little break before the contest?" he suggested with a reassuring smile.
Celeste looked at him, her expression a mix of gratitude and curiosity. "Sure, Ash. But where should we go?"
"Follow me," Ash replied, taking her hand and leading her through the vibrant streets of Lilypad.
Their journey led them to a hidden gem of history - the Lilypad Colosseum ruins. Tucked away from the bustling activity, the ancient structure stood. Vines and flowers had taken residence in the crevices of the stone, a delicate touch of nature reclaiming its territory. As they entered the ruins, the world around them seemed to hush, as if paying homage to the history held within these aged walls. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Moss-covered stones bore silent witness to countless battles that had once unfolded here.
Celeste couldn't help but be swept away by the aura of the place. "Ash, this is amazing," she whispered, her voice carrying a mix of wonder and reverence.
He grinned, seemingly pleased by her reaction. "I thought you might like it. This place has seen its share of battles and victories, just like you're about to have in the contest."
They walked through the ruins, Ash explaining the significance of certain spots as they went. He shared stories of trainers who had competed here, of the bonds they formed with their pokemon, and the triumphs that were etched into the very stones beneath their feet.
"See that archway?" Ash pointed, his tone conspiratorial. "Legend has it that a famous Coordinator once stood there before her final contest, just like you."
Celeste's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? That's... incredible."
Ash chuckled. "Yeah, and you know what? She went on to win that contest and then became a Grand Festival Champion."
Celeste's gaze shifted from the archway to Ash, her eyes filled with a mix of hope and determination. "You really think I could do it?"
"I know you can," Ash affirmed, his voice steady and full of conviction. "You and your pokemon have trained hard, and your performances have always left me amazed."
A warm smile spread across Celeste's face, the encouragement she needed blossoming within her. "Thanks, Ash. You always know how to boost my confidence."
He winked playfully. "That's what best friends are for, right?"
They continued to explore the ruins, pausing at a particularly striking view of the townscape beyond. The breeze carried with it the scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of laughter from the contest grounds. As they stood together, the weight of the upcoming contest seemed to lighten. Celeste found solace in the history of the ruins and in Ash's unwavering support. With a renewed sense of purpose, she turned to him. "Ash, let's do this. Let's give it our all."
He grinned, his excitement matching hers. "Absolutely! Your journey has brought you this far, and I can't wait to see where it takes you next."
Hand in hand, they left the ruins, ready to face the contest. Celeste was practically skipping as she made her way to the Contest Hall's backstage to change into her Eevee dress. This would be the last time she wore this dress, as she was planning on getting a new one for the Grand Festival. She hugged it to her chest and took a deep breath. This dress was special, not only did it represent her beginning as a coordinator and her love for eeveelutions, it was also the last gift her aunt had given her. The aunt she had not talked to since almost onne year now. The same aunt that for so long she had thought and loved as a mother... even after everything she missed her.
YOU ARE READING
Ash the Dragon Specialist
Fanfiction"Tell me Ash, would you like me to teach you about pokemon? About how to take care of them? Cure them when they get hurt? Would you like to learn about becoming a trainer?" Professor Oak asked the speechless boy, making a decision that would change...
