Tryst with Destiny: The Beginning of the End (Main Story)

28 : The Decision

(Next Morning)

Clemont comes out of his tent to see Serena asleep in Ash's arms. Ash is asleep, next to the extinguished bonfire, with his back rested against a tree trunk.

"I guess these 2 got so tired that they forgot to even go inside their tent after finishing their discussion." Clemont says to himself while smiling.

Clemont freshens up and then starts to get breakfast ready. The scent and sound of the breakfast being cooked wakes both Ash and Serena up.

"Morning sweetheart." Ash mumbles in a sheepish manner as Serena opens her eyes as as well.

Serena gives a sleepy smile before giving him a good morning kiss. After the kiss is over they both get up and stretch their hands and legs while yawning to get rid of their lethargy.

"How did you two sleep? Must have been a little uncomfortable sleeping like that?" Clemont says as both Ash and Serena walks towards him.

"Good morning to you as well Clemont. Slept fine actually. We fell asleep while watching a meteor shower." Serena says while looking for her water bottle.

"Alright you two. Go get cleaned up. He is here." Clemont says while pointing a finger at Dragon Emperor who is approaching their camp.

"Right." both Ash and Serena say in unison as they spring to their feet.

(Half an Hour Later)

Ash, Serena, Clemont and all the other Pokemon are eating their breakfast while Dragon Emperor is calmly waiting for them to finish. Like always he has serious yet calm and calculating face. His eyes are closed and his arms are crossed around each other.

"Wonder what's with that attire of his. It's like he is always deep in thought." Serena whispers to Clemont and Ash.

"Not just thought. Serious thought." Ash says as Serena nods. On seeing that the Dragon Emperor is not eating anything Clemont decides to speak up.

"Sir would you like some breakfast? We would be happy to share. There is plenty." Clemont offers.

"Thank you young man for that kind offer but I have already eaten. Kindly continue on. After you finish I need to have a word with the three of you." Dragon Emperor replies while staying in the same mysterious cold attire.

"So much for appreciation." Serena whispers.

"Well I thought he gave a little smile when he gave Clemont a reply." Ash whispers back.

"Well guys let's eat quickly. I am not sure keeping him waiting is the best thing to do under the circumstance." Clemont whispers back.

(10 Minutes Later)

"Well have the 2 of you reached a decision?" Dragon Emperor says while opening his eyes for the first time this morning in front of them.

"We have. We discussed it at length last night. We agree." Serena says.

"Good. I was hoping for that answer." Dragon Emperor replies while relaxing his facial expression a bit.

"Sir may I train under you too sir?" Clemont suddenly says.

Dragon Emperor looks at Clemont's determined face for a moment.

"I am afraid I must decline your request." Dragon Emperor replies.

"But why?" Serena asks while Clemont is looking disappointed.

"He does not have the inner strength to handle my training. He still has a long way to go before acquiring the level of maturity needed to undergo my training. I can't be the cause of any misfortune to happen to him should he go through my training without being ready to receive it." Dragon Emperor says quietly.