Journey Through Kanto | ✅

Chapter 61: Homecoming and Going

After the finals, it was time for the closing ceremonies to begin. Zia, Ash, and Richie stood in the entrance tunnels with the other trainers. They had Emmy, Sky, Pikachu, and Sparky with them.

The crowd was as energetic as they were earlier that day at Zia's match. "The Pokemon League now bids farewell to all the trainers and Pokemon who participated in this year's competition. Let's show all the participants just how much we appreciate their accomplishment as they enter the stadium one last time!" The announcer said.

That was everyone's cue to walk out as they waved and smiled at the supporting crowd. Zia walked next to Ash and Richie as they did the same. Once everyone was out on the field, they lined up in even rows and columns.

"League President Goodshow will now present each trainer with a special commemorative badge. Wear it with pride, trainers, as a symbol of excellence and achievement!" The announcer said as people were beginning to be called up. Zia was around the first few people since her last name started with 'B', as they were doing it in alphabetical order.

When they called her, she walked up and shook hands with Goodshow. He then handed her the badge, getting it from one of the two women at his sides. It was actually quite large to be called a badge. It took both of Zia's hands to hold it. It had a green base with a gold pokeball in the middle. On it was two wings with a decently sized blue crystal in the middle.

"And here now are the top-ranking trainers of this Pokemon League Competition! Please join us in saluting them along with their Pokemon for their skill and their dedication to the ideals of the Pokemon League!" The announcer said. Zia, her opponent in the finals, and Assunta all stood on the platform in front of the crowd of other trainers. Zia was in the middle on the highest pedestal, her last opponent to her left on the second highest, and Assunta on her right on the shortest. Emmy and Sky stood in front of Zia, so they could get their spotlight as well.

The three waved to the crowd as they cheered once more. "Now as this Pokemon League draws to an end, please direct your attention to our very special celebration in the sky!" The announcer said as the arena lights turned off, leaving the stadium dark. Everyone waited for something to happen.

Then, suddenly, fireworks were shot off into the sky, creating beautiful patterns in different colors. It lit the arena up from how many there were. Zia and the rest gazed up at them admiringly. This went on for what seemed like hours, but Zia wished it would never end.

Nevertheless, it did, and the following morning, the stadium was completely cleared out. The only sign somebody was here was the trash being picked up by the wind. Zia, Ash, and Richie all sat together in silence for a bit. That was before Richie broke it.

"Well, maybe you and I didn't win Ash, but we sure had fun, didn't we?" He asked the other male. "Yeah. We sure did." Ash responded, smiling at Richie. Suddenly, Pikachu and Sparky came running around the corner to their respective trainers. Emmy and Sky followed behind, but at a normal pace.

Zia stood up as her two Pokemon came up on either side of her. Ash was hugging Pikachu and Sparky was on Richie's shoulder, the two guys also standing up now. "And congratulations on your win, Zia." Richie told the girl. She smiled at him sweetly. "Thanks Richie. I hope we get to battle again soon, you were a fun opponent." She responded. He smiled and nodded, agreeing.

"Train hard, Ash." Richie then told him. "I will. Goodbye." The ravenette replied. "Bye, Pikachu." Richie then said to the little mouse on Ash's shoulder. "Pika Pika!" It said. He then turned to Zia again. "See you soon, Zia, Sky, Emmy." He told them, nodding his head at each. "Bye, Richie." Zia told him. "Serperior!/Lux-Luxray!" Richie heard her two Pokemon cry.

The auburn haired male then started to walk away. "Hey, Richie!" Ash called, making the mentioned stop and turn. "Don't forget. We promised." He added, holding a thumbs up. Richie laughed and did the same. Zia was utterly confused. Richie then walked away, but not for the last time. Zia knew she'd see him again.