Pokemon: Randomizer!

Ralts!

"Yeah, I didn't expect to see you here today either, Sabrina," Ash said, his gaze fixed on the stoic girl before him. His mind briefly flashed back to their encounter two years ago, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of caution, especially with his sister right beside him. 

Sabrina raised an eyebrow. "What's so strange about seeing me here?" she asked. "My Gym is located in Saffron City, so isn't it logical for me to be here?"

Ash scratched the back of his head. "Yeah, you're right. I guess I meant seeing you in such a crowded space."

Sabrina paused for a moment, then nodded slowly as if a realization had dawned on her. "Ah, I understand now. Your impression of me must still be based on our encounter two years ago. If that's the case, it's understandable that you're surprised. And I see now why you seem cautious of me."

Ash blinked, unsure of how to respond.

"To clarify," Sabrina began, "after you helped me escape the darkness of my mind, I realized that isolating myself in the Gym would only hinder my progress. So, I began working on improving myself. It took time, but now I try to spend more time in public and communicate better with my parents as well."

Ash was genuinely surprised and at a loss for words. "Oh wow... I honestly don't know what to say, but I'm happy for you."

"Thank you," Sabrina said with a nod, her tone calm as always. "So, what brings you here today? Are you perhaps here to challenge my Elite team?"

"Oh, no, nothing like that," Ash shook his head quickly. Although challenging elite Gym teams sounded interesting, he had other plans. "I'm just here for some shopping before I head out on my next journey."

"Ah, right," Sabrina said thoughtfully. "I had forgotten that you've been competing in various regional Leagues. I must say, your performance in the Silver Conference was commendable. It's a shame you didn't make it to the top 4."

Ash blinked again, surprised yet again. "Wait, you've been following my League matches?"

Sabrina tilted her head slightly. "Of course. Friends support each other, don't they?" her eyes were as stoic as ever, but Ash could spot a hint of joy behind them.

Ash was caught off guard by her words. "We're... friends?" he muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

"Are we not?" Sabrina asked, a faint sadness creeping into her voice.

"No! No, of course, we're friends, Sabrina!" Ash quickly reassured her, not wanting to hurt her feelings. He figured she didn't have many friends, so if she considered him one, he was fine with that. Plus, he couldn't help but notice the small smile that appeared on Sabrina's face when he confirmed they were friends. He actually found it kind of cute.

Just then, Ash felt a tug on his sleeve. He glanced down to see Ashly looking up at him, curiosity clear in her eyes. "Brother, aren't you going to introduce us?" she asked, her head tilted slightly.

"Oh, right!" Ash said, pushing Ashly gently in front of him. "Sabrina, this is my little sister Ashly. And Ashly, this is Sabrina, the Gym Leader of Saffron City and... my friend."

"Hi," Ashly greeted with a casual wave.

Sabrina nodded in acknowledgment. "Hello," she replied, and for a brief moment, her eyes glowed faintly. She turned her attention to Ash. "Your sister has great potential."

Ash grinned proudly, ruffling Ashly's hair. "Yeah, I know," he said.

After a brief pause, Sabrina looked back at Ash. "Since you're heading to a new region, may I ask a favor of you?"