How to Act as a Pokémon Champion

Chapter 18: The Ferry

(Ash’s POV)

The familiar thrum of a passenger ferry cut through the salty Hoenn air, bringing back a rush of memories. Every new region felt like coming home, yet also like stepping into the unknown.

"Guess they were serious about that World Coronation Series fight," a voice drawled behind me. I spun around to see Steven Stone, the Hoenn Champion himself, leaning casually against the ferry's railing.

"Steven! Long time no see!" I grinned. He always had this air of cool confidence, even when surprising you on a boat like this.

"Indeed!" His smile was genuine. "Your little show with Leon made quite a splash, Ash. Though..." His gaze sharpened slightly. "I'm told you haven't exactly been battling lately?"

A twinge of guilt pricked me. Paperwork wasn't the same as training. "Working on something pretty big back in Alola," I said vaguely. "But don't worry, I'm ready for this match."

Steven scrutinized me, seeming to weigh my words. Finally, he nodded. "Good. Your opponent this time... let's just say she's not one to underestimate." A flicker of amusement crossed his eyes.

I was about to ask who this mystery trainer was when a familiar voice chimed in from behind me. "Ash, darling! Fancy meeting you here."

Anabel. Of course. I suppressed a sigh. Had she used a teleporting Pokémon again? Just when I thought I had some breathing room...

Steven regarded her with raised eyebrows. "And you are?"

"Anabel," she purred, offering him a perfectly manicured hand. "Ash's League Advisor, and biggest fan, naturally." Her gaze lingered on Steven a moment too long, an unspoken challenge in her eyes.

Steven, ever the gentleman, simply inclined his head. "A pleasure. Well, Ash, I trust your… advisor will give you a proper Hoenn welcome." With a final enigmatic smile, he vanished down the deck.

"So," Anabel tilted her head, her eyes glinting. "Who's this mystery opponent?"

"Steven wouldn't tell me," I admitted, annoyance lacing my voice. Why did she always have to appear at the most inconvenient times?

"Intriguing." A slow smile spread across Anabel's face. "Well then, I suppose we'll just have to uncover this mystery ourselves!"

For the rest of the day, Anabel was surprisingly… helpful. As the ferry chugged along, I found myself relaxing more than I had in weeks. We spent hours discussing battle strategies and potential opponents. Anabel's knowledge was vast, and her insights were sharp. Despite my earlier reluctance, I couldn't deny that having her around was beneficial.

That evening, we reached Slateport City. The bustling port was alive with activity, the scent of the ocean mingling with the aroma of street food. Anabel suggested we explore a bit before heading to our hotel, and I agreed. It felt good to stretch my legs after the long ferry ride.

We wandered through the marketplace, sampling local delicacies and watching street performers. Anabel's usual aloofness melted away in the vibrant atmosphere. She laughed freely, and her eyes sparkled with genuine enjoyment.

"Look, Ash," she pointed at a stall selling battle accessories. "These could come in handy for your Pokémon."

I examined the items, impressed by the variety. "Good eye, Anabel. Let's get a few."

As we made our way back to the hotel, Anabel turned to me, her expression more serious. "Ash, there's something I need to talk to you about."

I nodded, sensing the shift in her demeanor. "What's on your mind?"

She hesitated, then took a deep breath. "I've been thinking a lot about my role as your advisor. About what that means for both of us. I know I've been… intense. And I want you to know that it's because I care. I care about you, about your journey. But I also need to learn to give you space."

I was taken aback by her honesty. "Anabel, I appreciate that. I really do. And I care about you too. We're a team. We support each other."

She smiled, a genuine, heartfelt smile. "Thank you, Ash. That means more than you know."

Back at the hotel, we settled into our rooms. As I lay in bed, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was shifting between us. Anabel's possessiveness had given way to a deeper understanding, a respect that made our partnership stronger.

My Rotom Phone buzzed—a text from Marnie. Heard you were back in the PWC! Can't wait to see you smash that mystery trainer! You got this, Ash!

I smiled. Marnie's faith was unwavering, unlike the confusing mess swirling in my own head. Anabel, mysterious opponents, paperwork… it all felt distant compared to the simple joy of a good battle.

In the quiet of the night, I reflected on our journey so far. The challenges ahead were still daunting, but with Anabel by my side, I knew we could face them together. And maybe, just maybe, we’d both find the balance we were looking for.