The Champion Stage {Path of the Aura Ranger: Book III}

III May's P.O.V

The luxury of Gym Leader Luana's hotel was just what I needed before my big contest in Kumquat Island. The jacuzzi was my favorite part. As I sank into the warm, bubbling water, I felt all my worries melt away. The jets massaged my muscles, easing the tension that had built up from all the traveling and training. Closing my eyes, I let out a contented sigh, feeling utterly relaxed.

My mind drifted to the upcoming contest. I had been practicing my routines tirelessly, determined to give my best performance. But right now, in this moment, I allowed myself to forget about all that. This was my time to unwind and pamper myself before the excitement and nerves of the contest. However, as expected, my peaceful time had to come to an end. With a sigh I left the jacuzzi, making my way to my room to change and then headed towards the Kumquat Contest Hall.

As I sat backstage, I fidgeted with the ribbons of my contest outfit, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves churning in my stomach. Drew sat beside me, offering a reassuring smile that helped calm my jitters a bit.

"Hey, May, you've got this," Drew said, his voice gentle and encouraging. "You've been working so hard for this moment."

I nodded, trying to steady my breathing. "Thanks, Drew. I just hope I can give a good performance. If I win this ribbon, I get to go to the Grand Festival with you."

Drew reached out and placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "You will. I've seen how dedicated you've been to your training. Plus, your Pokémon are amazing."

His words warmed my heart, and I felt a surge of confidence welling up inside me. Drew had always been there for me, supporting me every step of the way.

"I'm going to give it my all," I said, determination shining in my eyes. We fell into a comfortable silence as we waited for my turn to go onstage. I took a deep breath, mentally going over my strategy for the Appeal Round. "I've chosen Wormadam and Beautifly for the Appeal Round," I announced, glancing at Drew for his reaction.

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Solid choices. They each bring something unique to your performance."

I smiled, feeling reassured by his confidence in my team selection. "Thanks, Drew. I hope they can showcase their best moves out there."

With Drew's encouragement ringing in my ears, I stood up, ready to face the stage. It was my time to shine, and I was determined to make every moment count. As Beautifly took to the stage, her delicate wings fluttered with grace, catching the light in a dazzling display. She twirled and spun, her movements fluid and mesmerizing, drawing the audience's attention. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as I watched her perform.

"Wormadam, it's your turn!" I called out, my heart pounding with anticipation. Wormadam stepped forward, her body glowing with energy as she prepared to unleash her Hidden Power.

With a graceful sweep of her wings, Beautifly soared into the air, her movements synchronized perfectly with Wormadam's Hidden Power. The ground beneath them trembled as Wormadam released the powerful earthy energy, creating a stunning visual effect that left the audience in awe. As Wormadam continued to unleash her Hidden Power, I felt a surge of pride knowing that our teamwork and coordination were on full display. Beautifly's Quiver Dance added to the elegance of our routine, enhancing her movements with a graceful energy.

But we weren't done yet. With a swift motion, Wormadam used Protect to shield herself, creating a barrier of light that surrounded both Pokémon. Meanwhile, Beautifly released a cloud of Stun Spores, creating a protective and mesmerizing barrier around them. I couldn't help but smile as I watched our Pokémon perform with such grace and precision.

Wormadam then released her toxic spores, I felt a surge of apprehension. Poison wasn't typically associated with beauty, but in this moment, it was a necessary contrast to highlight Beautifly's healing Aromatherapy. As Beautifly countered with its soothing fragrance, the air around us seemed to shift, the toxic spores dissipating in the wake of its gentle breeze.