The Journey Continues

Mi Tesoro

'Saudade' is a word unique to the language of the Luísa people of western Paldea, but its meaning is quite universal. To feel 'saudade' is to miss someone dearly, to long for somewhere that you can't reach. It has been many years since the word was first used and its origins have been lost to the Pokéworld History books, but we know it was popularised during the 15th century when Luísan sailors left their wives and children for years at a time to explore the uncharted ocean.

Today, it retains its significance, both in the essence of travelling as well as in many other facets of life. Longing is a common sentiment, after all.

Serena held Ash in her arms, feeling the longing for his embrace finally satisfied. She had waited 2 and a half years for this moment since that day at Lumiose City Airport, when she let her feelings be known. She hadn't for a second thought about giving up her wait for him. She knew that the powers that be would lead them back together eventually.

This was her reunion, the reward for her patience.

"I've missed you a lot, Serena..." Ash confessed quietly. His face was pressed against her right ear, so she could just about catch the sentence.

Her wide grin was hid by his unkempt hair. "I've missed you every single day, Ash. You have no idea how happy I am to see you."

The two stayed like that for another minute, soaking in the other's presence. Gloria was also still there, watching on with a smile as she petted Cupcake. She knew moments like these should be lived to their fullest.

She and Ash had in truth been gone for 2 days. Everyone was starting to doubt their condition, but hope still lingered, and it was right to be that way. Serena had spent this time, whenever she could, returning to the spot in which they had disappeared in case they would magically reappear.

To her utter shock, they did.

Breaking out of the hug, Serena shifted her attention to Gloria, approaching her for another embrace, which the Galarian gladly accepted. "I missed you too, you had me worried."

She laughed sheepishly, "Not my intention, ma'am."

"Just be more careful next time, alright?" To which Gloria nodded in acceptance.

With the greetings out of the way, Serena led them back to Naranja Academy. "Today's the last day of classes before the treasure hunt begins," she explained along the way. "You've already missed the morning," she added with a chuckle.

"Ah, that's a shame. I was looking forward to learning a few things," Ash lamented.

Gloria, on the contrary, was relieved. "Thank Arceus, we can get on with it." Then she remembered something, "Hey Sere, aren't the student council election results today?"

Serena smiled sheepishly, "I'll be honest, I don't expect to win. After you guys disappeared, I kind of neglected my campaign to look out for your return. It's between Gary and Nemona, I'd say."

Ash raised an eyebrow, "Gary's running? Why?"

"You know him?" She asked. "I don't know exactly, he doesn't seem like someone who'd take the responsibilities that come with it seriously."

He shrugged, "He's probably just running for the fun of it then."

"He did seem to be having a lot of fun on stage," she agreed. "I expect Nemona will win in the end, though. She's already got reputation here."

The walk to the university was quite short, albeit full of steps as the three rose at least 50 metres in height. Moreover, it was a hot day, as it always is in Paldea, so it definitely felt like a longer trip than it really was. Eventually, though, they reached the school gates and entered the building, pleased to find themselves cooled by the air conditioning, one of the many modern conveniences of this ancient institution. Serena led them to the food court, where Goh, Chloe, Nemona, Arven and Gary were having lunch.