Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

One morning in a tiny village nestled beneath a towering mesa, the inhabitants busied themselves with their daily chores. Children ran and played outside, their laughter filling the air. But inside one particular hut, the atmosphere was anything but cheerful. Norman stood by the doorway, his face etched with frustration.

"Look, May. An arranged marriage is an arranged marriage. The LaRousses are the wealthiest family here. You should feel honored that their son fancies you."

"I should be honored that some creep won't stop staring at my chest? Father, do you even hear the words coming out of your mouth?!" May's eyes flared with anger.

"May..." Norman began, but she cut him off.

"And even if he weren't a creep, I am not a piece of property that can be just signed away." she spat. Norman sighed, his voice growing softer.

"Come on, May, it's not like that..."

"Seriously?" May raised an eyebrow, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "So tell me. How much are they offering you as compensation for my hand in marriage?"

"That's not—" Norman stammered.

"Yeah, not about property or money, my foot," she retorted, crossing her arms defiantly.

"May." Norman's expression hardened. She stood her ground, refusing to back down. "Go out to the garden," he said sternly.

"Why?"

"I don't want to see you until dinner," he replied, shaking his head as he walked away. May rolled her eyes.

"Well then, the feeling is mutual," she muttered, storming outside. As she stepped into the yard, her younger brother, Max, walked past her, a smirk on his face.

"Went well, didn't it?" he taunted.

"Peachy," she snapped, pushing through the gate. As she left, a sudden chill from the mesa washed over her, like a whisper on the wind. She rubbed her arms, shivering slightly. "Huh?" Before she could wonder where the wind had come from, her attention was drawn as her supposed husband-to-be, Drew, approached, his voice oily and unwelcome.

"Hello, dear." he greeted her. May groaned inwardly.

"Oh, you have got to be kidding me," she muttered, continuing to walk without acknowledging him.

"May..!" Drew called after her, but she quickened her pace, determined to leave him behind. Drew caught up with her and swiftly grabbed her arm. "Stop! I'm talking to you!"

"And I'm not talking to you!" she growled, yanking her arm from his grip.

"You better start curbing that attitude May. We're going to be married soon enough. And I won't tolerate being disrespected by my own wife." he warned her.

"Well lucky for you then, I have no intention of being your wife!" she declared. Drew's glare hardened and he grabbed her by the wrist, pulling her flush against him.

"You don't have a choice. The contracts have already been signed. You belong to me May." he said with a quiet, yet firm voice. May's blue eyes glared daggers at him as she shoved him away from her and yanked her wrist out of his grip.

"I don't belong to anyone!" she screamed before storming off. Drew huffed under his breath, but decided not to give chase this time. He headed inside to speak to her family as May made her way into town.

May continued walking, her steps heavy with frustration, as she approached a trail that veered in two directions. She paused, looking between the paths: one led down to a gentle stream, the other wound up the mesa. A sudden breeze hit her again, whispering something that sounded vaguely like "freedom."

"Again...?" she murmured, glancing around.

"I can grant you freedom from this..." A voice, soft yet commanding, echoed through the air.

"Who's there...? Who are you...?" May called out, taking a tentative step toward the mesa, despite seeing no one.

"Follow the chill running down your spine..." the voice urged. May hesitated but then, nervously, began to follow the path up the mesa. The trail led her higher and higher until she reached a ruined temple she had been warned by the town's elders as well as her family to avoid at all costs. Their warnings echoed in her memory, but she scoffed at them.

"Yeah well, I was also told I had to marry a creep too," she grumbled to herself. With a determined stride, she approached the temple. The door was slightly ajar, and she peeked inside, finding the place empty save for a strangely shaped bottle at the back of the room. "Huh...?" The bottle seemed to call out to her.

"Free me...and I will liberate you from your unhappy wedding..." May took slow steps forward, eyes fixed on the bottle.

"Who are you...?"

"I am like you, a soul treated like property, handed off for profit..." the voice from the bottle replied.

"You...are?" she asked, doubt flickering in her eyes.

"Free me..."

"I-I don't know..." May stammered, her hand hovering over the bottle.

"I will free you from your bonds if you free me from mine..." the voice promised.

"You...really have that power...?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

"And more..." the voice answered as the room then fell silent. May took a deep breath and slowly reached out, her fingers trembling as she grasped the bottle.

"Well...ok." She pulled off the cap. Instantly, mist filled the room, and the sky outside turned dark. An enormous figure emerged from the mist, laughing maniacally.

"FINALLY!" the figure exclaimed. May stumbled back, her heart racing.

"W-What the?!" The figure, now clear in the dim light, patted her head with one of his many hands.

"Thank you, my pet. Hoopa is free at last!" A sinister smile spread across his face.

"H-Hoopa...?" May's voice quivered.

"And now...my end of the bargain..." Hoopa declared, bursting from the temple and charging toward the town.

"Wait...!" May cried, running after him, panic surging through her. Hoopa laughed maniacally as he descended upon the town.

"DIE!" he cackled, unleashing a devastating Hyperspace Fury. Waves of dark energy radiated from his form, destroying huts and slashing through the air with devastating force. The village crumbled, people screaming and scattering in terror.

"No...!" May cried, running desperately toward the chaos.

"Pathetic human pests! Meet your end!" Hoopa's eyes gleamed with malicious delight as he unleashed more waves of energy, obliterating everything in his path as his mirade of hands crushed down anything or anyone that managed to escape the initial hits. Huts were reduced to rubble, and lives were snuffed out in an instant. The once peaceful village lay in ruins, bodies strewn everywhere.

"Stop it! No!" May screamed, her voice breaking with despair. Hoopa turned his gaze toward her house, the last piece of the village left standing.

"Ah! The finishing touch!" he laughed. With a swift, brutal motion, he destroyed it, revealing Max and her mother, Caroline, crushed beneath the rubble, and Norman lying with severe lacerations.

"NO!" May's heart shattered as she stumbled forward, her legs weak with shock and grief. Hoopa fired off his final assault, completely eradicating the remains of May's home and family, silencing the last of the life within the area. The village was silent, except for the sound of Hoopa's laughter echoing through the air. May fell to her knees, tears streaming down her face. "No... This isn't what I wanted...!"

"Oh tiny human." Hoopa hovered above her, a cruel smile on his face. "I have freed you from your unwanted engagement. We're even." He laughed uncontrollably, the sound chilling her to the bone. "Be careful what you wish for," he taunted, flying toward her. May's sobs grew louder as Hoopa grabbed her with one of his many hands. She screamed, struggling against his grip. "And now your final reward," Hoopa sneered.

"No...!" May's voice was hoarse with terror. "Help..!"

"ENOUGH!" Suddenly, beams of light streaked down from the sky, hitting Hoopa. Hoopa screamed in pain, his form shriveling and twisting. He dropped May from his massive hand, and she screamed, believing that once she hit the ground, she would meet her end as well. However her fall was suddenly stopped mid-air, and her body was gently lowered down to the ground.

"What the?!" May gasped, shielding her eyes from the blinding light as she tried to see what was happening. A majestic figure emerged from the sky, radiating power and authority. The Almighty Arceus descended, his presence commanding and grave.

"YOU!" Hoopa growled, trying to attack the great Pokemon, but Arceus's power rendered him completely incapable of fighting back.

"I will not let all of humanity suffer for one girl's mistake." Arceus declared. His red eyes began to glow with power and Hoopa was forced back into his confined form, screaming in agony and hatred.

"NO!" Hoopa raged in agony. Arceus returned him to a mist that was sent back into the bottle from which he came and the prison bottle closed around him with a snap. With Hoopa gone, only May and Arceus remained in what used to be a peaceful little town. The silence seemed to really bring to reality what had happened for May. The weight of it all caused her to drop to her knees and cover her face as she began to sob. Arceus looked gravely at May as she cried, her body wracked with sobs.

"How pitiful..." he murmured, his voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and disappointment. May sobbed uncontrollably, her tears mingling with the dust of the ruined village.

"I didn't mean for this to happen..." she whispered amid her sobs.

"That Hoopa is a bloodthirsty djinn. He was sealed because he could bring about the world's destruction...and I cannot dispatch him so quickly forever. It could have been far worse than this, my dear." Arceus regarded her with solemn eyes.

"I didn't know..." May wept, her voice breaking.

"Be that as it may," Arceus continued, his tone heavy with gravity, "a lesson must be learned here. The consequences of your actions stole one hundred lives today...and it could have been far more. Should he escape one more time, I will not be able to stop him on my own."

"I'm sorry.." May's weeping grew softer, her heart laden with guilt and sorrow and Arceus's gaze did not waver.

"This cannot go unpunished...for even as you weep, you cannot truly understand the weight of every one of my beloved's deaths."

"I didn't want anyone to die!" May cried out, her voice filled with desperation. "I never wanted this..."

"I know," Arceus said quietly. "But you must face consequences for your actions."

"What conse-" however Arceus did not let her finish. His body began to glow with a golden light and he spoke in a booming voice that commanded her attention and down out all others.

"Great power will be given to you, but none of it will be your own. Your selfish actions have brought destruction, so to this ring you shall be confined. He who wheres it shall be your Master until death do you part. The cycle shall continue until 100 have been served to pay for your crimes." he recited a curse. May's eyes widened in shock as she felt herself changing. Power from Arceus flowed into her body, changing her very self as her clothes transformed into the garb of a slave, and a ruby-encrusted ring appeared in the air between the two of them.

"W-What have you done to me…?!" May asked in a panic, able to feel somehow that her very being had been changed.

"From this moment forth, I sentence you to enslavement as a genie."

"W-What...?!" she gasped.

"So that you truly understand the weight of every life lost, you must serve a hundred lifetimes to account for every life lost." Arceus's voice was firm. "And not for a mere three wishes. You must be your Master's servant until their death. If you don't, their life shall not be counted. Your powers will not be able to do any harm, nor prolong your sentence, but they can still do nothing for yourself. Yet they are still vast, and you will use them to serve anyone who wears your ring until your debt has been repaid." he explained.

"O-One hundred lifetimes…?!" May teared up, crying harder. Arceus's expression softened slightly as he watched her cry, but his decision remained firm.

"I have preserved your youth. You will no longer age. Nor can you be killed, or diseased. As you are now, you will stay until your sentence is completed."

"Oh..." May whispered, the weight of her sentence sinking in.

"I'm sorry, little one. But it is for your own good," Arceus said, his voice tinged with sorrow.

"How heartless do you think I am...? You think I didn't care about those people...?" May cried out, her voice filled with anguish.

"I know you did. But you did not care enough...nor do you appreciate how much worse it could have been," Arceus replied. May felt herself being drawn toward the ring that had materialized. Her form began to dissolve, tears streaming down her face.

"No! No!" May cried, dissolving completely into tears as the ring absorbed her. Arceus turned away, his voice filled with regret.

"I am sorry..." The ring, now holding May's essence, dropped to the ground with a soft thud. Inside, May cried into her hands, the weight of her punishment pressing down on her soul.

Several months passed before the ring was picked up again. Over the centuries, May was used for both good and evil, each master and mistress chipping away at her hope and humanity. The passing centuries left her feeling almost nothing at all. The ring occasionally got lost, negating a life and leaving her alone for long periods. No master, however, was more vile and cruel than the man who appeared to be her 100th Master. A man named Derek rubbed the ring on his finger, a sly grin spreading across his face. May's eyes opened, her heart sinking at the sight of him as she appeared beside him.

"Slave," Derek began, his tone dripping with malice. "Tomorrow the caravan begins our journey to the eastern kingdom. I trust you will do everything in your power to keep us safe in the wild?"

"Yes..." May replied, her voice barely a whisper. Derek placed a hand on her cheek, the other on her waist.

"Yes what?" May winced, her skin crawling under his touch.

"Yes...Master..."

"That's better," Derek sneered, pressing a kiss onto her lips and holding her in place. May winced, standing but refusing to kiss back. Derek's invasion of her mouth made her hold back a gag, his fingers running up and down her back. He pulled away from the kiss, a knowing, malicious smirk on his face. "Slave," he commanded, "I wish you would kiss me back."

"...Yes...Master..." May's heart sank. Derek kissed her again, groping her. May winced as she reluctantly kissed back, her spirit crumbling further. Derek moaned in satisfaction, pulling away for air.

"Good girl," he said, stroking her cheek. "The kingdom is about to meet its new king." May said nothing, her eyes filled with a hollow resignation. "Once we're at our new home, I'm keeping you outside of the ring at all times. It will help maintain the illusion you're just a simple slave. You wouldn't want to be stolen from me, would you?"

"...No...Master," May replied, her voice devoid of emotion.

"Very good. Now," Derek stood up, "make me food."

The following afternoon, the caravan traveled through the desert, dozens of solider carts and weapons lined up in a row. Inside the ring, May cried, the weight of her existence pressing down on her. Derek rubbed the ring, a bit harder than usual, loosening it slightly. May dried her eyes as she appeared before him.

"I desire your company," Derek said, holding her waist. May remained silent, her eyes downcast. Derek caressed her, loosening the ring further as a breeze picked up.

"Sir it seems a windstorm is beginning!" a solider called to Derek from outside the carriage.

"So it would seem." Derek huffed.

"We must take shelter before it gets worse!" the solider insisted

"No, we must press on!" he barked at them before turning his attention back to May. She winced as suddenly a strong gust of wind hit the carriage, nearly tipping it over. "Ack! Slave! Do something about this sand—" Derek commanded, but a blast so strong hit them that it blew the ring off his finger, making May vanish.

"Ah!" she gasped. Forced back inside the ring, May gasped in surprise, feeling the ring tumble across the ground amid the wind and sand. Even from inside, she could hear Derek's scream of rage echoed through the air.

"MY SLAVE!" he bellowed as the storm blew the cart over, burying the ring deep in the sand in the process.

"Oof..." May groaned and rubbed her head.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Derek's voice grew distant, drowned out by the howling wind. May looked outside, her breath catching in her throat. The ring was buried, severing her ties with who would have been her final master.

"...Oh…" Tears welled up in her eyes, both sad and relieved to be away from him. She started to cry, the mix of emotions overwhelming her as she was forced to once again, wait.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Two hundred years had passed since May's ring was lost. And in that time, a new Kingdom had been founded and flourished into one of the most powerful Kingdoms in the world. Known as the Kanto Kingdom, the people who lived there were ruled by the kindness of their Queen, Queen Delia Ketchum, and her two children. However, today the Kingdom felt far different than the cheerful place it used to be. And that negativity seemed to emanate from the Royal Court inside the castle itself. The courtroom was filled with the weight of judgement and despair. Ash Ketchum, once the Prince of this realm, stood before the judge, holding his beloved Pikachu tightly in his arms. Pikachu looked up at him with sad, knowing eyes.

"Prince Ketchum," the judge's voice echoed through the stone hall, "you are found guilty of the robbery of Duke Oak's home. You are henceforth banished from the kingdom of Kanto, under pain of death."

"But I didn't do anything…" he protested, his voice breaking as tears welled up in his eyes.

"Honey…" his mother's voice trembled from where she sat in her throne, her daughter seated next to her with a heartbroken look on her face.

"Mom, please—" Ash began, but the guards were already upon him, gripping his shoulders with rough hands.

"I'm sorry, dear…" Delia whispered, her face a mask of sorrow. She wanted to help her son, but as Queen she had to abide by the court's decision. Her daughter turned to her with a desperate look.

"Mom please…" the Princess begged.

"I'm sorry Luna…there's nothing I can do." she responded. As Ash was dragged away, he struggled against the guards, his eyes pleading with his mother.

"Mom…" Delia could not bear to watch and turned her head away. Pikachu clung tighter to Ash's chest, offering what comfort he could. Ash cast one last distraught glance at his mother, who stood with her head turned away from him, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

Outside the courtroom, Ash was dragged to the city limits. The guards closed the gates behind him and returned to their posts, leaving the young Prince with only the clothes on his back, and his partner in his arms. Pikachu looked up at him with a supportive smile.

"Thanks, buddy," Ash murmured, trying to muster some strength.

"Always." Pikachu nodded in agreement. Ash managed a small, sad smile.

"Guess it's just you and me for a while, huh?"

"Guess so." Another nod from Pikachu. Ash looked around, the reality of their situation sinking in.

"Now… which way do we go?" Pikachu climbed onto Ash's head, surveying the landscape. After a moment, he shimmied back down to Ash's shoulder. Ash took a deep breath and started walking in a random direction. "Guess I should just get moving so we don't get in trouble."

"I'm sorry, Ash…" Pikachu nuzzled Ash's hand, offering silent support.

"You know it wasn't me… right?" Ash asked, his voice filled with pain and uncertainty.

"Of course." Pikachu nodded firmly.

"This is all so stupid…" Ash lowered his head and shook it slowly.

"I'm sure there's a way to clear your name." Pikachu's eyes sparkled with determination.

"Maybe…" Ash gave a sad shrug, his pace steady but weary. "I wish they at least gave us provisions…"

"Maybe the next town isn't far…" Pikachu's ears perked up as he scanned the horizon.

"Here's hoping…" Ash replied, his voice carrying a faint glimmer of hope. And so, they continued on, two companions against the world, with the hope of clearing Ash's name and finding a new place to call home.

Several days had passed since Ash had been banished from the Kingdom of Kanto. He now found himself weakly trudging through an endless expanse of sand, completely exhausted and dehydrated. Pikachu whimpered softly, sharing in his master's suffering.

"I-I can't...I can't go...any...further..." Ash panted, his voice barely a whisper as he collapsed to the ground, coughing from the dust that filled the air.

"Ash!" Pikachu cried out, shaking him desperately. Ash lay suffocating on the ground, his breaths shallow and labored. Pikachu's eyes filled with tears. "No! Ash, please!" As Ash lay there, a finger subconsciously slipped over a ring on his hand. Inside the ring, May felt the ring shift positions.

"Huh...?" she murmured, her curiosity piqued. She looked outside through the gem and noticed the ring had slipped onto the finger of someone new.

"Water...I need water..." Ash muttered weakly.

"You gotta rub it..." May thought to herself, knowing she couldn't help unless he directly summoned her. Finally, one of Ash's fingers twitched enough against the ring to rub it, and in an instant, May appeared beside Ash. She quickly summoned a canteen of water and placed it to his lips, gently guiding the water into his throat. Ash didn't respond immediately, but eventually, he began to drink, downing most of the canteen. As he became more coherent, he sat up slowly, Pikachu clinging to him and crying as neither one of them seemed to notice the young woman who had appeared out of nowhere.

"Hey...you alright, buddy?" Ash asked, rubbing Pikachu's back. Pikachu nodded, tears still streaming down his face.

"Don't scare me like that!" he cried. Ash offered a reassuring smile.

"Sorry, I scared you..." He picked up the canteen. "Here...I think there might be a few drops left—" Pikachu immediately started to drink from the canteen, which mysteriously didn't seem to have lightened at all despite all that Ash had drank. Ash watched in amazement. "Wha..." Pikachu drank his fill and looked up at Ash with relief. Ash then noticed May for the first time and jumped slightly. "O-oh. Hello...Are...you the one that gave us water?"

"Yes, Master." May nodded. Ash gave her a confused look, but decided to ignore the strange response for now.

"Thank you for the help. You really saved our skin., he added. May hesitated, clearly not used to someone saying thank you, let alone showing her genuine appreciation.

"...Yes, Master."

"Why are you calling me that? What's your name?" May's eyes widened, having not spoken her own name in decades.

"It...It's May, Master." she finally responded.

"Well...thank you again for your help," Ash said sincerely.

"Yes, Master." May gave a small nod.

"Why do you keep calling me Master..? My name is Ash," he informed her. May pointed to the ring on his finger. Ash looked at it, bewildered. "What the? When did..? Oh! Is this yours?" He moved to take it off, but May spoke up before he could.

"He who wears it shall be your Master until death do you part. The cycle shall continue until 100 have been served to pay for your crimes..." she recited the curse. Ash blinked in astonishment and looked at Pikachu. Pikachu's eyes were wide with shock.

"Are you...magic or something?"

"Yes, Master," May replied.

"Whoa..." Ash breathed. May remained silent. Ash continued, "So...you're like a...genie?"

"Yes, Master."

"I guess I used up a wish...but I'm very grateful nevertheless. Thank you, May. If there's anything I can do for you—"

"The wishes are infinite," May interrupted.

"Infinite..?" Ash echoed.

"Until death do you part."

"Like...a marriage?" Ash blushed.

"The terminology is literal. The wearer of the ring is my Master until his death parts me from his service."

"O-oh...I see..."

"Each lifetime of completed service reduces my sentence. Once 100 sentences have been completed, my curse will end. Misplacement or loss of the ring negates the work done for that Master." May explained further.

"So you're held prisoner by this..?" Ash asked, looking at the ring.

"Yes, Master."

"Oh…" Ash frowned. "And you've been like this how long..?"

"...I stopped keeping track a millennium ago, Master..." May admitted.

"Gosh..." Ash's eyes widened. May kept her composure despite the gravity of her own feelings when admitting it. Ash shook his head, deeply saddened. "That's...terrible..."

"It is my burden to bear. You need only concern yourself with your decision in this matter, Master."

"Would it work if...I wished for your freedom?"

"The wishes can do nothing for me."

"Really..?" Ash frowned. "That's a shame...You saved my life...I wanted to return the favor..."

"The decision whether or not to accept my ring is yours. Taking off the ring and leaving it behind will sever my service to you, and I will await the next person to happen upon it." Ash considered her words, then nodded.

"Then...if it helps complete your sentence, May, then I accept." He offered a small smile and extended his hand, showing genuine kindness. May hesitated, almost reaching out to accept his hand, but then remembered her place and simply bowed.

"As you wish, Master." Ash frowned slightly, disappointed that she continued to keep her distance.

"You can call me Ash, if you prefer that anyway... Whatever you're more comfortable with."

"My preferences are irrelevant. My duty is to yours," May replied firmly.

"They're not irrelevant to me. I just want whatever makes you happy." he countered. May's eyes widened, her calm demeanor faltering as she became unsure how to respond. Even her kindest masters hadn't given her feelings much, if any, consideration while in her service. "...B-but if that's what you want, go ahead," Ash stammered. "I am a Prince, or...was... I-I don't mind."

"I-I..." May struggled to maintain her composure, her shield from her own emotions. "Master is sufficient."

"Okay," Ash nodded. "Well, this is my partner Pikachu." He gently petted Pikachu, who nuzzled his hand in return. May gave Pikachu a polite nod. "I was banished from my kingdom... We were just trying to reach the nearest settlement when I collapsed," Ash explained. May nodded in understanding. "Can you help us?"

"You need only speak your wish."

"I wish we were at the nearest town." May snapped her fingers, and the scenery around them changed in the blink of an eye. "Whoa..." Ash marveled.

"As you requested, Master," May said.

"Thank you, May." May gave a small nod. Ash smiled at her staring at her briefly before shaking the thought out of his head. May raised an eyebrow at his action as he quickly looked away, blushing and hoping she hadn't noticed. He walked into the city limits and she followed him as he looked around the town. "Hm... I think we should stop somewhere for supplies."

"As you wish, Master."

"What seems good to you, Pikachu?" Ash turned to Pikachu. Pikachu hopped onto Ash's head and sniffed the air, catching the scent of something fresh and delicious. "Oh? Smell something nice...?"

"Yeah!" He smiled and nodded.

"Lead the way!" Ash chuckled. Pikachu hopped off Ash's head and ran off, with Ash and May following closely behind. Soon they all stopped on a street packed with shops and markets, where Pikachu pointed to a stall full of berries.

"Those!" he declared.

"We'll have to see if we can buy these," Ash said, smiling. Pikachu beamed excitedly as Ash approached the merchant. "Hello? Is this a shop?"

"Yes. What can I do for you?" the merchant asked.

"I would like to buy some berries."

"How many and of what kind?"

"What do you want, buddy?" Ash turned to Pikachu. Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder and pointed out several different ones who's scent seemed to be the best. "Alright. We'd like those," Ash told the merchant.

"All together it'll be 7 silver pieces." The merchant bagged the berries. Ash reached into his pocket to try and get the coins, but his face fell.

"Oh shoot... All of my money was at home..." he muttered, trying to think fast as May sensed his distress.

"Master?"

"Y-yeah?"

"If you require something..." she hinted, trying to remind him of her powers.

"R-right... uh..." Ash whispered, "I wish I had a pouch full of silver coins." May snapped her fingers, and Ash felt one materialize in his pocket. He pulled out the pouch and handed the merchant seven coins. The merchant accepted the money and handed over the food. "Thank you, sir."

"You're welcome." Ash then turned to May with a bright smile, very aware that she had really been the one to "purchase" the fruit by giving him the money.

"And thank you, May..." May gave a polite nod as Ash asked, "Do you want anything?"

"M-Me, Master?" May stammered. Ash nodded. "...N-No, Master..."

"You sure?"

"Yes, Master..."

"Well...alright." Ash opened the bag for Pikachu. "Here you go, bud."

"Thanks!" Pikachu ate happily, and Ash smiled.

"I'm pretty hungry myself..." He looked around the town. Pikachu continued to eat, smiling contentedly. Ash began to walk around town, trying to navigate without relying solely on May. The young genie followed him quietly, very confused by his methods. She watched his actions in complete bewilderment, wondering if he actually comprehended the extent of her power. Her confusion deepened, but she continued to follow, silently pondering the nature of this new master who seemed so different from the others she had served over the centuries.

"He just doesn't understand yet…" she told herself, convinced that sooner or later, he'd turn out just like all the others.

"Is something wrong?" Ash asked, noticing May's gaze.

"My apologies, Master. I did not intend to stare," May replied, snapping back to reality.

"It's alright. Is something on your mind?"

"...Yes, Master."

"What is it?"

"...You are aware that you need only wish for what you want, correct?"

"I suppose I could, yes." Ash nodded as May watched him closely. "I don't wish to take advantage of you or be demanding. You're still a person, even if you are bound to me."

"...With all due respect, Master, that is inaccurate."

"What do you mean?" Ash looked puzzled.

"The curse changed my entire being. I never age, fall ill, become injured, eat, sleep, or anything else a human would do. No part of me qualifies as human anymore." she clarified.

"Well... that's not what makes someone a person."

"I am a slave to my Master. Nothing more."

"May…" Ash said softly. May remained silent. Ash took her hand gently, and she winced slightly out of habit and he quickly let go. "Sorry!"

"My apologies, Master... I did not intend to disrespect you."

"No May…" Ash shook his head. "Not at all... You didn't do anything wrong."

"A slave never recoils from her Master..." May recited a mantra out of habit.

"That's part of your condition? I don't want you to feel like little more than an object..."

"N-No... I-I..."

"You haven't had many kind masters, have you?" Ash asked, giving her a sad look.

"...That's irrelevant, Master."

"It's relevant to me..."

"...No, Master, it's not..." she insisted. Ash frowned at her answer, his heart aching for her. He could only imagine what she'd gone through all this time, and he wanted more than anything to help, but this wall of her's was tall and thick. And for now at least, he knew he couldn't scale it just yet.

"Sorry I pressed the matter..." he sighed.

"...My Master can do as he pleases..."

"You have my word, May, with me... you'll be treated like a friend..."

"...I'm just a slave... nothing more... I'm here to serve you..."

"Well…then in that case…" Ash took a deep breath. "I wish you happiness while we're together."

"I told you wishes don't work on me..."

"It doesn't need to be a magic wish," Ash said with a warm smile. "It's just something I sincerely wish for." May looked down quietly, determined to keep herself from believing that he would be any different from the others. After all, she'd served dozens of people over several centuries. She knew human nature better than anyone else. Even so, Ash's kind voice snapped her out of her thoughts once more. "I know you said you don't need to... but can you eat?"

"...Yes, Master..."

"Do you have a favorite food?"

"...I have not eaten anything in many a millennium, Master... it is highly unlikely..."

"No food?!" Ash's eyes widened. "Gosh..." May remained silent in response. On impulse, Ash took her hand again, which made May flinched a little. "We're going to a tavern."

"...As you wish, Master..." she nodded. With enthusiasm, Ash escorted her to the nearest tavern, determined to make her feel more than just a servant.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May stumbled slightly as Ash led her by the hand. His grip was firm yet gentle, but the unfamiliar terrain made her steps uncertain.

"S-sorry...are you alright?" Ash asked, scratching behind his head sheepishly.

"...Yes, Master," May replied, her voice soft and compliant. Ash gave an embarrassed sigh as they found themselves just outside what looked to be just a simple local tavern.

"This looks like a good place," he said, glancing up at the building.

"...As you say, Master," May echoed, her eyes following his gaze. Ash's expression shifted to one of discomfort.

"Uh...sorry, could you perhaps...create a pouch of gold coins? What I did have I lost when I was banished..."

"...Yes, Master..." May responded, snapping her fingers without missing a beat. In an instant, a pouch of gold coins appeared in Ash's hand.

"Thank you," Ash murmured, his gratitude sincere. May nodded silently. They stepped inside, the warm light of the interior contrasting with the cool evening outside. Ash approached the host, who stood at a podium near the entrance. "Excuse me? Can we get a table?"

"Of course. Right this way," the host replied, leading them to a table in the corner of the room. Ash walked over with May following close behind. He pulled out a chair for her, holding it open with a small, encouraging smile.

"Go ahead." he insisted. May hesitated for a moment before sitting down.

"...As you wish, Master..." she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash smiled warmly and took his seat across from her. May folded her hands in her lap, her eyes downcast but attentive. The ambient noise of the restaurant buzzed around them as they settled into their seats, the unspoken tension between them hanging in the air. Ash glanced across the table at May, concern etched in his features.

"How do you feel?" he asked gently.

"...I cannot be hurt or ill, Master," May replied, her voice steady and emotionless.

"What about cold or hot?" he probed further.

"I experience neither," she said simply.

"Sounds kinda stale…" Ash mused, trying to imagine such an existence.

"...It is a sentence...not a vacation," May clarified, her tone matter-of-fact.

"...Still...I'm sorry about it," Ash said, sincerity in his voice. May's eyes flicked to his face briefly.

"I urge you to save your pity for a more deserving party, Master," she said, almost with a venom towards herself of all people. Ash tilted his head, studying her.

"May I..." he began, unsure of how to phrase his next question.

"I deserve no pity, Master, I assure you," May interrupted, her voice firm.

"Why do you say that?" Ash asked, leaning forward slightly.

"...I've seen no value in lying for a long time," she responded, her gaze unwavering.

"Why don't you think you deserve pity?" he pressed, his curiosity piqued.

"...It is unimportant, Master," May replied, her tone dismissive.

"I would like to know," Ash insisted, his eyes earnest.

"...No, Master, you would not," May said quietly, her eyes dropping to her hands.

"May..." Ash urged gently.

"...The punishment is there for a reason," she said, her voice barely audible. Ash frowned, his heart aching at her words. May shifted her gaze down to her hands, avoiding his eyes. Ash looked at the menu in front of him, trying to compose himself. He took a deep breath, the weight of the conversation heavy on his mind.

"When's the last time you got any enjoyment out of something?" he asked, looking back at her.

"...I don't recall such a time, Master," May replied, her voice devoid of emotion. Ash frowned again.

"Everyone deserves to be happy," he said softly.

"...Not everyone, Master," May said, her tone resigned. Ash reached across the table and took her hand gently.

"I mean it," he said firmly. May flinched at his touch but didn't pull away. She looked away however, unable to meet his gaze.

"I promise," Ash said softly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles.

"...As you say, Master," May murmured, her eyes still downcast. Ash looked into her eyes, hoping to find some glimmer of emotion, but she kept her gaze firmly on the table. He sighed, feeling the weight of her sadness.

"I think you might enjoy the taste of food," he said after a moment of silence.

"As you wish, Master," May replied mechanically.

"If you don't know what to get, we can have the same thing," Ash suggested, hoping to make the decision easier for her.

"As you wish," she repeated. Ash waved over a server, who approached their table with a polite smile.

"Yes, sir?" the waiter asked.

"We're ready to order," Ash said.

"Yes, sir. What can I get for you?" the waiter asked, poised to take their order.

"We will both have the pot pie," Ash said, deciding for them both.

"Excellent choice, sir," the waiter said, accepting their menus and walking away. Ash looked at May, his eyes filled with curiosity and concern, hoping to do anything that would lift her spirits, even if it was only a little.

"Can you tell me something about yourself?" he asked gently.

"...I have already told you all you need to know, Master," May replied, her voice emotionless.

"You've only told me about your powers and your curse." Ash shook his head slightly. "I wish to know who May is a little better. Surely there's more you could say."

"...May has long since been irrelevant, Master...she is just a slave..." May said, her tone resigned.

"...That was my wish, May," Ash reminded her. May glanced at him, her eyes briefly meeting his. Ash looked back at her, his gaze unwavering.

"...I ask that you don't pursue this, Master...there is nothing to gain..." she said softly.

"Does it upset you?" Ash asked, leaning forward.

"...My feelings on my past are irrelevant..." May replied, her voice steady.

"That's what you're not getting, May...if it was irrelevant to me, I wouldn't be asking...I want to know more about you, and I care about how you feel. It matters to me," Ash said earnestly.

"...It should not..." May insisted.

"I'm sorry..." Ash said quietly. May remained silent, her eyes downcast. "Do you want me to make the most of our time or not?"

"I-I do not understand, Master..." May replied, confusion evident in her voice.

"Well...I want to get to know you better...even if you don't think you deserve it...but I also want to respect your boundaries. But I can't do that if I don't have them," Ash explained.

"...An emotional disconnect allows me to remember my place as lower than my Master...it is not my Master's job to worry about my feelings or my past...my past is irrelevant because the humanity that I once had no longer exists...it is just a role that I fill...a Master's puppet..." May said, her voice cold and detached.

"You're not a puppet to me," Ash said firmly.

"...Many millennia of perfecting an emotional distance from all people is all that remains...May does not exist..." she replied, her voice devoid of emotion.

"How is that okay..? You're not an object," Ash argued, his voice rising slightly.

"...That is exactly what I am, Master," May said.

"Objects can't argue," Ash pointed out.

"...I would never argue with my Master..." May insisted.

"Then what do you call what we've been doing?" Ash asked, frustration creeping into his voice.

"...Protecting my Master from what does not need to be known..." she said softly.

"You insist on staying 'beneath' me?" Ash asked, his eyes searching hers.

"It is where a slave belongs," May replied.

"Then...Genie...your Master's bidding is to know who 'May' is, and what you're keeping under wraps...It's your job..." Ash commanded gently. May winced but complied with his order.

"May...was...a foolish girl who brought everything and everyone she loved to ruin because of a selfish desire..." she finally confessed.

"...What happened?" Ash frowned, his heart aching at her words.

"...She released a demon who claimed he could save her...and he destroyed everything and everyone..." May said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"...You were tricked...that's not your fault..." Ash said softly.

"She was just a foolish girl with selfish desires..." May insisted.

"...And...this was your punishment?" Ash asked, his voice trembling slightly.

"...100 lives lost...100 lives to serve…" May replied, her eyes downcast. Ash stood up and walked over to her, his expression pained and sympathetic.

"May..." he whispered, gently pulling her into her first real hug in ages. May flinched in surprise, her body stiffening at his touch. Ash held her gently, his arms providing warmth and comfort. "May...I'm sorry...For everything you have gone through..." he murmured. May looked down, trying to keep her emotions buried. "You've been at this for a very long time...you deserve to let yourself feel again..."

"No, Master...the point of the punishment is to suffer..." May shook her head.

"You've suffered enough," Ash said firmly. Pikachu nuzzled her arm, offering his own form of comfort.

"...Evidently not...the curse remains for a reason..." May said, her voice barely audible. Ash looked her in the eyes, his gaze filled with determination. May blushed slightly at the intensity of his look. Ash gave a small smile, trying to reassure her. "...P-Please don't, Master..."

"Don't what?" Ash asked gently.

"...Emotional control provides stability and perseverance...without it..." May began, her voice trembling.

"You don't have to worry...You won't suffer with me," Ash promised. May clung desperately to the last shreds of her barriers, tears beginning to form at the corners of her eyes as Ash realized how truly scared and broken she really was. The emotional walls were here only protection from a flood of pain and emotions behind them. And his compassion for her was breaking through more quickly than he anticipated.

"Master...please stop..."

"I-I'm s-sorry," Ash stammered, his voice filled with regret. May lost the last of her control at his genuine apology and broke down into tears. Ash held her closer, offering silent support. May cried rivers into his tunic, her body shaking with the force of her sobs. Ash rubbed her back, trying to soothe her. "Shh..." May cried centuries worth of tears into his chest, releasing the pent-up emotions she had held back for so long. Ash kissed her forehead gently, his heart breaking for her. May cried for several more minutes before finally forcing herself to try and stop. She wiped the tears off her cheeks, her breathing still shaky. "Are you alright?"

"No, Master..." May sniffled and shook her head.

"I'm sorry...I won't push you so hard again," Ash said softly, regret evident in his tone.

"The emotional control keeps me sane," May murmured, still sniffling.

"No…no May's it's not...It's tearing you apart...you needed that cry," Ash said gently.

"Relief and happiness are not mine to have..." May replied, her voice filled with resignation.

"They should be...no matter what your other masters have said..." Ash said, lifting her chin with a gentle touch. May looked up at him through her still wet eyes, a blush creeping across her cheeks. "...You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen...even when you're crying," Ash said, his voice tender. May blushed profusely at his words. Ash wiped a tear from her cheek, his touch gentle. May blushed even more, feeling a strange warmth spread through her. "...You deserve something you can enjoy now,"

"...Why?" May asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Because it's been forever since you last did...and you were just crying..." Ash explained, slowly letting go and allowing her to turn back to the table.

"...That's not a reason..." May said, shaking her head slightly.

"Of course it is," Ash insisted.

"It's not...I have done nothing worthy of that," May argued.

"Doesn't matter. And even if it did, you saved our lives. Worthy to me," Ash said firmly. May looked down a little, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. At that moment, their food was brought over.

"Here you are sir." the waiter announced, placing a plate in front of each of them. Ash sat back, nodding to the waiter.

"Thank you," he said, then looked at May. May looked at the pie, almost in confusion. It had been so long since she had even attempted to eat something, so her dinner table manners were very out of practice. Ash couldn't help but give a small smile, finding her innocence cute even amid the reasoning for it. "Here," Ash said, showing her how to slice and eat it.

"I-I...um..." May stammered, hesitantly following his lead.

"Give it a try," Ash encouraged with a smile. May took a bite, her movements tentative. "Well?" Ash asked, watching her closely.

"It's...nice, Master," May replied, her voice just the slightest hint warmer than it had been before.

"I'm glad," Ash said, smiling back at her. May forced herself to crack a small smile, feeling a warmth she hadn't felt in centuries. They ate quietly, the silence between them filled with unspoken understanding.

Not long after sunset, May finished her plate, and Ash did the same. They both cleaned the remnants of their meal off their faces and hands, others around them doing the same as everyone started heading back to their homes for the night.

"Thank you...Master..." she said softly.

"Of course, May," Ash replied. May gave a small nod, feeling a strange sense of contentment. Ash paid for their meal and got up. May stood up as well, her movements graceful. "Alright then. Let's get moving,"

"Yes, Master," May replied, following him out of the restaurant. Ash led the way, and May followed close behind, feeling the slightest spark of a glimmer of hope she hadn't felt in a long, long time.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the barren landscape, Ash glanced around the tiny town that was still surrounded by the desert's desolate surroundings.

"I guess we'll have to find a place to rest for the night," he said, his voice tinged with weariness.

"Yes, Master," May replied, her tone respectful and obedient. Ash took a deep sigh, the weight of his new reality pressing down on him.

"Never thought I'd pick up a nomadic lifestyle..." May hesitated before speaking, her voice soft.

"...Master, if I may... you could always make wishes to avoid such things..." Ash looked at her, uncertainty in his eyes.

"...I wouldn't know where to begin."

"...Truly anything you could want, Master..." May's voice was gentle, encouraging.

"Even if I wished my innocence proven and banishment repealed... I don't know if I can face them again..." Ash's voice faltered, the pain of his past still fresh in his mind.

"Could you not... wish for a new home of your own in some way...?" May suggested cautiously.

"I... suppose... I just..." Ash trailed off, his eyes drifting to Pikachu. Pikachu met his gaze, a mixture of concern and confusion in his eyes. "Should I..?" Ash asked, his voice uncertain.

"It's your decision, Master," May replied, her eyes fixed on him.

"Pikachu..?" Ash turned to his loyal companion.

"I-I don't know..." Pikachu stammered, equally unsure.

"It's kind of a tall order... I don't know if I'm ready..." Ash admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

"It's... your decision..." May repeated, her voice steady.

"I don't want to get lonely..." Ash's voice broke slightly, revealing his deeper fears.

"What, Master...?" May asked, concern etched in her features.

"Well, I had friends back home. If we just got a new one somewhere it would be lonely... don't you think?" Ash looked at Pikachu, seeking reassurance.

"Probably..." Pikachu nodded, sharing Ash's sentiment.

"Could I wish people into existence..? No... no, that wouldn't feel right…" Ash shook his head, dismissing the thought.

"I can neither destroy nor create life, Master..." May said, her voice filled with regret.

"No no, it's fine." Ash nodded, understanding. May looked up at him, her eyes filled with sympathy. "I'll accept it as a temporary solution. May, can you take us somewhere hospitable to create a home?" Ash asked, his voice resolute.

"Yes, Master." With a snap of her fingers, May transported them to a small oasis in the desert. Another snap, and a giant mansion appeared alongside the shimmering lake.

"Whoa..." Ash breathed, taking in the sight of their new home.

"As you have asked, Master," May said, bowing.

"Thanks..." Ash stepped inside, still in awe. May followed and Ash took a moment to absorb his surroundings, he gazed around the massive foyer, its grandeur reminiscent of a ballroom. The space was completely furnished and spotless, every detail meticulously crafted. "Whoa..." he breathed, his eyes wide with astonishment. May stood silently behind him, watching his reaction with a hint of concern.

"Is... something wrong, Master...?" Ash shook his head, still taking it all in. "I see..."

"I'm just astonished," he admitted, scratching the back of his head as he turned to face her. May blinked, a look of confusion crossing her features. Ash's admiration spilled over. "You're incredible."

"I-I'm sorry, Master...?" May responded, taken aback.

"I said you're incredible," Ash reiterated, a warm smile spreading across his face.

"Uh... th-thank you... Master..." May stammered, her cheeks tinged with a blush. Ash noticed her reaction and raised an eyebrow.

"You okay?"

"Yes, Master..." she replied quickly, but her eyes betrayed her nervousness.

"Alright," he said, nodding.

"Thanks for the help," he added sincerely. May bowed slightly, her demeanor shifting back to formality.

Yes, Master." she replied. Ash turned his attention back to the foyer, the opulence of the mansion still overwhelming. He could hardly believe they were now in a place so magnificent.

"Is there food here?" he asked, glancing at May as they headed up the stairs to check out the bedrooms.

"If you wish there to be…" she replied, her tone steady.

"How far away are we from the nearest town?" Ash inquired, trying to get his bearings.

"A snap, Master…" May said with a very matter-of-fact tone in her voice.

"I mean, mileage-wise," Ash clarified.

"Five miles, Master..." she replied, her gaze steady. Ash nodded, appreciating the information.

"Is there anything you would like?" he asked, genuinely curious.

"No, Master..." May answered softly, her expression revealing her dedication to his needs.

"Okay," Ash said, accepting her answer. "Say, can you make a small bed for Pikachu?"

"Yes, Master." With a swift snap of her fingers, a cozy little bed materialized in the Master bedroom nearby.

"Check it out, Pikachu!" Ash called, excitement in his voice. Pikachu happily scampered over to the bed.

"Awesome!" he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with delight. Ash smiled at the sight of his friend settling in comfortably.

"I'm glad it's cozy." Pikachu snuggled into the bed, cooing contentedly, clearly enjoying the warmth. "You really have a magic touch, May," Ash said, turning back to her.

"...Thank you... Master..." May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash smiled at her, feeling a sense of gratitude. May's abilities were more than just magical; they offered a sense of stability in his uncertain world. May bowed again, making him blush nervously and scratch the back of his head awkwardly at her forced formailty. Ash glanced around the room, feeling a bit overwhelmed by May's unwavering attentiveness.

"R-really now, is that necessary..?" he asked, a bit uneasy. May looked up at him, her expression questioning.

"My...My apologies Master…" she replied, confused as to why he seemed uncomfortable whenever she gave him the formality his position over her required.

"It's okay," he said, offering a reassuring smile. May remained silent, her eyes downcast. "Thank you," Ash added, his voice soft.

"Yes, Master," May replied quietly.

"Do you have a place to sleep?" Ash asked, concerned for her well-being.

"I don't sleep, Master..." she answered matter-of-factly.

"Wh-what?" Ash stammered, taken aback.

"I explained earlier, Master..." May reminded him gently.

"Oh... that sounds awful..." Ash said, his brows furrowing with sympathy.

"It is par for the course, Master," May responded, her tone resigned.

"Do you think you could if you tried?" Ash asked, genuinely curious.

"...I have tried, Master... my body does not grow tired or weary..." May explained, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

"What do you do when your Master is asleep? Or when you didn't have one?" Ash inquired, trying to understand her existence.

"Some would recall me to the ring... others..." May looked away, her expression pained.

"Oh? ...Oh..." Ash realized, his heart sinking at the implications. May sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "What would you prefer? As far as going back to the ring, I mean," Ash asked, trying to be considerate.

"I have no preference... sitting and waiting can be done anywhere... Masters who have not used... other methods... preferred the ring so as to ignore my lack of sleep... standing in the corner awake all night has proven... uncomfortable to most..." May explained, her voice steady but distant.

"Well... I like having you around... You can rest even if you can't sleep," Ash said, hoping to comfort her.

"...As you wish, Master..." May replied, her eyes meeting his briefly.

"Maybe you can entertain yourself with books," Ash suggested.

"As you wish, Master..." May agreed, her tone neutral.

"I'd hate for you to be bored," Ash added, concern evident in his voice.

"I'm fine, Master…" May reassured him.

"If you say so..." Ash said, still unsure. "Does granting wishes take any kind of toll on you?" he asked, hoping to learn more about her powers.

"No, Master..." May answered.

"That's good. I wouldn't want you to push yourself too hard," Ash said, relieved. May remained silent, her expression unreadable. "Why not do something for yourself to help you relax? I'll call for your help at dinner," Ash suggested kindly.

"My power can do nothing for myself, Master..." May said quietly.

"That can't be completely true. What if you made a bath or something to rest in? That would work for you, wouldn't it?" Ash proposed.

"My Master must request something for himself in order for my powers to activate... whether or not I am granted access to use the fruits of those wishes is another matter entirely..." May explained.

"I see," Ash said, understanding the limitations of her powers.

"You can wish for a book to read for yourself and allow me to read it, but I cannot create the book for myself," May clarified.

"I see..." Ash repeated, contemplating for a moment before speaking again. "I wish for a bookcase filled with different books on travel and fiction," Ash declared.

"Yes, Master." With a snap of her fingers, a beautiful bookcase filled with various books appeared, creating a full mini library just down the hall from his bedroom.

"You have permission to take or read anything you choose." Ash smiled at her.

"...Thank you, Master..." May replied, her voice soft with gratitude.

"Does this place have a room where someone may take a bath?" Ash asked.

"Yes, Master," May confirmed.

"I would like a bath prepared, and you may also use it, whenever you like," Ash instructed.

"Yes, Master," May said, snapping her fingers. "I do not get dirty, Master... but thank you..."

"Didn't say you did. It's an option should you desire to relax or are free from requests." Ash smiled warmly. May blushed slightly, her cheeks tinged with pink. Ash scratched his head, feeling a bit awkward. "You're... very pretty when you blush..."

"I-I…" May stammered as she blushed harder, looking away from him.

"Sorry…I'll just be a minute." Ash headed towards the bathroom, leaving May to her thoughts. She glanced at the new room down the hall, the mini library now gracing the wall just as he had asked for. Curiously, she examined the spines of the books, noticing a mix of travel guides, history books, and famous fiction novels.

"I think my life has enough fantasy and fiction-like events for anyone..." she mused, picking up a travel book.

Later, while May was sitting in the library and absorbed in her book, Ash left the bathroom wearing only a towel. Noticing that May wasn't waiting for him this time, he became slightly concerned. So he left into the hallways and first went to the library, completely forgetting his current appearance.

"May?" he asked. May looked over, startled. She quickly set the book down and stood up, blushing so hard Ash tilted his head in confusion. "What? What's wrong?"

"Y-Your…clothes Master…" she answered meekly.

"Oh!" he exclaimed, his cheeks flushing red with embarrassment. "Sorry! I just uh…wanted to make sure you were ok…"

"It's f-fine Master…" she replied, doing her best to not let her own embarrassment show too much.

"Can you get me fresh clothes?" Ash asked, trying to cover his embarrassment.

"Yes, Master." With a snap of her fingers, fresh clothes appeared in Ash's hands.

"Thank you," Ash said, giving her a grateful nod. May nodded back, as he dressed himself, finally resolving the awkward situation he had created. "Enjoying your book?" he asked, trying to change the subject.

"It is... nice, Master..." May replied, her voice soft. Ash sat across from her, his expression relaxed.

"You can keep reading if you'd like. I won't stop you."

"I must be prepared to serve at a moment's notice, Master..." May protested gently.

"It's okay. Take it easy." Ash smiled.

"...As you wish, Master..." May sat back down, her movements hesitant. Ash smiled at her, encouraging her. May hesitantly picked up the book again, her eyes scanning the pages. Ash looked over at Pikachu, who was sleeping soundly in his bed in the other room. He smiled, feeling a sense of peace. May continued to read quietly, her concentration slowly returning. Ash, curious, leaned over her shoulder. May tensed in surprise at his proximity.

"Sorry... What are you reading?" Ash asked, his voice gentle.

"...One of the books about the best places to travel, Master..." May replied.

"Neat." Ash smiled, intrigued. "Would you like to visit any of the places you saw?"

"I…" May hesitated. "I... I go where my Master is..."

"That wasn't what I asked," Ash pressed gently. May looked down a little, her uncertainty evident. "Would you like to visit any of those places?"

"...Yes, Master..." May admitted quietly.

"Then we can." Ash smiled warmly at her.

"You know the rules of my powers, Master..." May reminded him.

"I do. But you can still tell me what you would like," Ash insisted.

"Master, you don't... you don't have to keep..." May started, her voice wavering. Ash hugged her from behind, his embrace gentle.

"And what if I do anyway?" May flinched in surprise, her heart racing. "Just say the word and we can go wherever you like tomorrow," Ash promised.

"I cannot, Master... it is your will, not mine..." May said, her voice trembling.

"Your Master's will is to take you where you would like to go," Ash said firmly.

"...Why...?" May asked, her voice barely a whisper.

"Because I would like to make you happy," Ash replied simply. May looked down again, unsure of how to respond. "I may be your Master... but I don't have to be selfish,"

"...Forgive me, Master but..." May began, her voice breaking. Ash looked at her, concern in his eyes. "Absolute power corrupts absolutely... no Master can resist the pull of near unlimited power forever..." May said, her voice filled with a deep-seated fear.

"I don't need absolute power. Nor do I want it," Ash said earnestly.

"...Three other Masters started the same..." May whispered, her eyes meeting his. Ash looked at her intently, their gazes locked.

"I'm not them." he asserted. May blushed, unable to look away. Ash blushed too, his heart pounding. He leaned in slightly, their faces inches apart. May watched him, her mind racing, unable to move or speak. Ash's breath hitched. "A-all I want is... i-is..." His heart beat rapidly as he struggled to find the words.

"I... I..." May stammered, her voice barely audible. Unable to resist any longer, Ash kissed her, his touch tender and hesitant. May's eyes widened in shock and panic, her body tensing. Ash felt her whimper under him and instantly pulled away.

"I-I'm so sorry! I-I d-don't know why I did that! Sorry!" he apologized, his voice frantic. May wrapped her arms around herself, trying to stop her tears.

"My Master can do whatever he wants..." She muttered the command from her previous Master under her breath. Ash, realizing the depth of her fear, let go and backed off.

"I'm sorry..." he said, his voice breaking.

"My Master can do whatever he wants..." May cried, her voice filled with despair.

"Not if it hurts you..." Ash said firmly before leaving the room. May cried into her hands, her sobs muffled by her palms. Ash paused at the door, looking back at her with an aching heart.

"My Master can do whatever he wants…" she repeated like a broken record.

"I'm sorry…" He then left the room, hoping that he was giving May the space she needed to calm down. May cried, feeling a deep, aching sadness and fear that she couldn't suppress overwhelming her body once again. Underneath all her pain and fear she wanted to believe that he was different, that maybe he wouldn't turn out to be another man who would eventually hurt her again. But she knew better than to hope. The trauma inside her ran deeper than anyone would ever know. And that wasn't going to change anytime soon.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Soon, May sat alone in the corner of the library, her head buried in her knees. The weight of her emotions held her there, unable to bring herself to leave and face Ash in the next room. The silence in the room was broken only by her soft sobs. Pikachu stirred from his bed in Ash's room, his ears twitching at the sound. Slowly, he walked over to May, his little paws making almost no noise on the floor.

"Pika?" he said softly, gently shaking her. May looked up in surprise, having failed to notice Pikachu was even there. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying, and she was unsure of what to say to the concerned Pokémon. "Pikachu?" he asked, tilting his head. She stared at him, still unsure. Pikachu nuzzled her cheek, his warm fur comforting against her skin. May didn't respond, lost in her own turmoil. Pikachu nudged her gently, trying to coax her out of her shell.

"What...?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. Pikachu nudged her again, his dark eyes full of concern. He could sense her sadness, and it troubled him deeply. "I don't understand..." she said, her voice trembling.

"Pika!" Pikachu insisted, tugging on her hand with surprising strength for such a small creature.

"I cannot leave..." May shook her head. Pikachu tugged on her hand again, more insistent this time. May shook her head more firmly, her resolve crumbling but still intact. "Please leave me alone..." Pikachu frowned, his large eyes reflecting his worry. He licked her cheek, hoping to bring some comfort. May buried her face in her knees again, the sound of footsteps echoing in the background. She didn't look up, keeping her head down, trying to hide from the world. As Ash re-entered the room, he flinched slightly, the tension in the room palpable. May remained silent, her eyes fixed on the floor.

"Hey..." Ash began hesitantly.

"Hello, Master..." May replied softly, her voice devoid of emotion.

"Mind if I come over?" he asked, trying to gauge her reaction.

"My Master does as he wishes..." she responded, her tone unwavering. Ash walked over to her, his steps slow and deliberate. He knelt down beside her, his heart heavy with regret.

"I'm sorry..."

"My Master can do as he wishes," May repeated, her words like a mantra.

"May... I should have asked first," Ash said, his voice filled with remorse.

"My Master can do whatever he wants," she insisted, her eyes not meeting his. Ash sighed, feeling the weight of her words.

"I just..." Ash looked down in shame, his voice barely a whisper.

"Master, you can do whatever you want... I will comply..." she informed him.

"That's just it, May," Ash said, his voice pained. "I shouldn't do anything that makes you uncomfortable."

"My comfort is irrelevant," she replied, her tone distant.

"Not to me," Ash said firmly. May glanced at him briefly, then looked away. "I'm sorry," Ash said again, his voice breaking.

"You did nothing wrong, Master," May said, her voice softening slightly. Ash looked at her, searching for a glimmer of understanding. "My Master can have anything he wants..."

"Not if it makes you uncomfortable... I mean that," Ash said earnestly. May looked down at her lap, her fingers fidgeting. "Let me know next time... and I won't-"

"I won't... I will not confront my Master," she interrupted, her voice shaking.

"May..?" Ash asked gently. She glanced at him, her eyes filled with confusion and fear. Ash gave her a concerned look, his heart aching for her.

"I won't, Master..." He hugged her sadly, feeling her flinch and blush under his touch.

"I want to be better for you..."

"You have to be nothing for me... you are my Master," she said, her voice trembling.

"May…" Ash sighed deeply. "Do you mean that, or is that just what you've been trained to believe?"

"That is the way it is... I am what my Master wants," she said, her voice hollow.

"Please accept my apology anyway, and we can move on," Ash pleaded.

"As you wish, Master," May said, her voice barely audible. Ash stood up, looking down at her.

"Can you make us some dinner?"

"Yes, Master..." she said, snapping her fingers. Ash took her hand gently, causing her to look up at him with surprise. He helped her to her feet, and together they walked to the dining room. May followed him, her steps uncertain but obedient. As they arrived in the dining hall, Ash sat down with May at the dining table, gesturing to a chair for her. She sat where he indicated, her movements precise and obedient. The table before them was laden with an incredible array of dishes, nearly every recipe one could imagine.

"Whoa..." Ash murmured, looking at the feast in astonishment. May remained silent, her eyes downcast. "You're amazing," Ash said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

"Thank you, Master," May replied softly.

"Take what you like," Ash encouraged, making a plate for himself.

"As you wish, Master," May said, taking a few things for herself, her choices modest. They ate quietly, Ash savoring each bite.

"Wow... it's perfect," he remarked, his appreciation clear. May finished her small portion, remaining silent. Ash smiled at her. "Thank you, May."

"You're welcome, Master," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Can you create this kind of stuff infinitely? I would hate to waste anything we can't get to," Ash asked, curiosity in his voice.

"Yes, Master," May confirmed.

"Awesome," Ash said, looking pleased. May remained silent, her expression neutral. "Say... May?" Ash ventured, looking at her.

"Yes, Master?" May glanced at him, her eyes wary.

"I wish that everyone less fortunate than me... everyone on the road traveling, or homeless could have a meal as good as this," Ash said thoughtfully. A flash of surprise flickered across her face before she quickly shook it off.

"Yes, Master," May replied, snapping her fingers.

"Thank you, May... you're wonderful." Ash smiled warmly.

"You're welcome, Master," she said, her voice tinged with something softer. Ash couldn't stop smiling at her, his happiness evident. May blushed a little, looking down and trying to make herself smaller to avoid his gaze.

"I'm doing it again..." Ash said sheepishly, a blush spreading across his cheeks.

"I only did as requested, Master," May said softly.

"Even so…" Ash gave a nervous chuckle. "Sorry... you just make me really happy..."

"That is my job," May replied, her voice barely audible.

"Even so..." Ash said, smiling at her. May blushed lightly, her eyes still downcast. Ash looked down, blushing as well. "I'm... I'm glad I got banished... otherwise we'd have never met." May looked at him in surprise, her eyes widening.

"Master…" Ash smiled at her, his eyes full of warmth. May blushed profusely, her cheeks turning a deep red.

"This has been a great day..." Ash said, his smile broadening. "First I get rescued by the most beautiful person I've ever seen, and it ends with a feast... heh..." May's blush deepened, her face almost crimson. Ash covered his mouth, realizing what he'd said. "Did I say that..?"

"Yes, Master," May confirmed, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash blushed, feeling the heat rise in his cheeks.

"Y-yeah well…You are..." May's blush grew even more intense.

"I-I..." Ash looked down, his own blush matching hers.

"A-anyway... thank you again," he said, trying to regain his composure.

"You're welcome, Master," May replied. Ash smiled and stood up, offering his hand to her. May watched him, confusion flickering in her eyes. Ash smiled warmly and timidly, May accepted his hand, and he helped her to her feet. She blushed deeply, her heart racing. He smiled and walked with May back upstairs and towards his room.

"Can you grant me another wish?" he asked, his voice gentle.

"Yes, Master," May replied, her tone steady.

"Could you make it rain over the night? The desert could use it," Ash said, his eyes filled with earnest hope. Once again, May was surprised by his wish, even as she attempted to hide that surprise.

"Yes, Master," May said, snapping her fingers.

"Thank you, May," Ash said, gratitude in his voice.

"You're welcome, Master," she replied, her tone softening. Ash smiled at her, and for the briefest moment, May's lips curved into the smallest smile before it vanished once more. They reached Ash's room, and he walked inside while May stood politely outside. Ash turned to her, a thought occurring to him.

"Are there other bedrooms?"

"Yes, Master," May confirmed.

"You may claim one if you want. And you can take any book you want with you," Ash offered, his voice kind.

"I-I don't need one, Master," May stammered, uncertainty in her eyes.

"Take it," Ash insisted, smiling warmly. "You deserve it."

"A-As you wish, Master..." May blushed, her cheeks turning pink.

"You don't know for sure that you won't be able to fall asleep until you try after all," Ash said, kissing her hand tenderly.

"Y-Yes, Master..." May's blush deepened.

"Goodnight. I'll see you in the morning," Ash said, his voice soft.

"As you wish, Master," May replied.

"Goodnight," Ash said, his words gentle.

"Goodnight, Master," May echoed softly. Ash slowly shut the door, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. May walked down the hall, her steps quiet and measured.

In the morning, May sat quietly on her bed, her hands folded neatly in her lap as she read the last few pages of the book she had selected. The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow in the room. She sensed Ash's awakening and gracefully left her room, standing outside with her hands still folded in front. Ash yawned and rubbed his eyes, slowly coming to full consciousness.

"Pikachu?" he called softly. Pikachu yawned in response, his small form stretching.

"Morning already…?" he mumbled. Ash smile at his companion.

"Yeah, it is. Sleep well?" Pikachu jumped onto Ash's shoulder, his eyes bright with energy.

"The best ever! That bed rocks!"

"I'm glad then." Ash laughed. He got up and opened the door, finding May standing there. "Oh! Hello, May," he greeted, surprised but pleased.

"Master," May nodded in acknowledgment.

"How was your night?" Ash asked, his tone gentle.

"Fine, Master," May replied, her voice steady.

"Have you decided where you'd like to go?" Ash inquired, curious. May's eyes widened, having forgotten about that part of the day.

"U-Uh..." Ash sighed with a smile, understanding her hesitation as he patiently waited for her response.

"Show me the book, and I'll wish to go where you want." he insisted.

"A-As you wish, Master..." May said, a hint of relief in her voice. Ash smiled encouragingly as May walked back to her room. She returned shortly, carrying a book with her. Ash watched as she flipped through the pages, her movements precise and deliberate. May found the page she was looking for and handed the book to Ash. He looked at it with interest.

"It's a large crystal located in Anistar City... there are rumors that something mystical happens to it at sunset..." May explained, her voice filled with a touch of wonder. Ash smiled, happy to see and hear a bit more emotion in her voice.

"I wish we were at Anistar City," Ash said, smiling. May snapped her fingers, and in an instant, their surroundings changed, transporting them to the fabled city of Anistar, far away in a brand new country from the one they knew.

As the setting transformed before their eyes, Ash watched with quiet curiosity. Beside him, May looked around, a rare expression of shock flashing across her face. Ash's lips curled into a smile, his eyes twinkling with amusement. May, catching his gaze, felt a rush of embarrassment warm her cheeks.

"Did I just see a smile?" Ash teased, his voice gentle yet playful.

"I-I..." May's blush deepened as she stammered. Ash's smile widened, a hint of smugness in his expression.

"What a shame. I would have loved to see you smile." he teased. May's blush intensified, her face now a vivid shade of red. She looked down, trying to hide her embarrassment. "You're adorable," Ash said softly, his eyes never leaving her face. May's blush grew even brighter, her heart pounding in her chest. Desperate to change the subject, she glanced around and her eyes landed on a giant pink crystal at the edge of town. "Anyway, where do you want to go?"

"Well uh…" May hesitated, then pointed towards the crystal. "Over there…they call it a sundial..."

"Ah," Ash replied, intrigued.

"Rumor has it that at sunset, it does something incredible," May continued, her voice filled with quiet wonder.

"Interesting," Ash mused.

"But even with the time difference, sunset isn't for a few hours still..." May trailed off, uncertainty in her voice. Ash looked at her, his smile warm and reassuring.

"Want to get something to eat?" he offered.

"If you would like to, Master," May replied, her voice almost a whisper. Ash reached out and took her hand.

"Let's go."

"As you wish, Master," May said, her tone obedient yet touched with a hint of warmth. As they walked together, Ash noticed her behavior and gave a small smile of satisfaction.

"Hey... she didn't flinch that time." He smiled, a sense of accomplishment filling him.

Ash looked around, searching for a suitable restaurant. May followed closely behind him, her eyes taking in the bustling cityscape.

"Ah, here," Ash said, spotting a place that seemed welcoming enough. He walked towards it, and May glanced through the windows, noticing a few other patrons with their slaves inside. "Oh... Are you alright?" Ash asked, his voice tinged with concern.

"I'm fine, Master," May replied quietly.

"If you're sure..." Ash responded, giving her a final, questioning look.

"Yes, Master," she affirmed. Ash led the way inside, and May followed him closely. He approached the host and cleared his throat.

"Could we have a seat?" he asked.

"Certainly. How many?" the host inquired.

"Just us," Ash replied.

"Us?" The host's eyes flicked to May's attire, which clearly indicated her status.

"Well, yes," Ash confirmed, a hint of defensiveness in his tone.

"Very well," the host said, though his expression showed a trace of disapproval. He walked back into the restaurant, and Ash and May followed.

"There are a lot of slaves here," Ash observed quietly to May.

"Yes. Many of our regular patrons prefer to have their slaves attend to them personally while they dine," the host explained.

"Instead of wait staff?" Ash asked, puzzled.

"They prefer to keep their slaves busy," the host replied matter-of-factly. May sighed internally, quickly noticing that none of the slaves were allowed to sit. Her heart sank a little at the realization.

"Oh..." Ash muttered, his discomfort growing. The host brought them to a table with two chairs.

"Can I assume you only need the one, sir?" he asked, beginning to remove the second chair.

"I..." Ash hesitated, then wrapped an arm around May. "Prefer to keep her close to me if it isn't a bother." May winced slightly at his comment, though she tried to hide it.

"Very well," the host replied, putting the chair back in place. As they sat down, Ash looked at May with an apologetic look.

"Sorry about that... If you would rather leave, we can right now. Just say the word..." he whispered to her.

"All restaurants in Kalos will be this way, Master," May whispered back, her voice tinged with resignation. "The slave trade in this country is quite brutal…"

"Then we'll leave and go somewhere private," Ash decided, his voice firm. May looked at him in surprise. "Come on," Ash said, taking her hand. "I won't stand for you getting treated like this." May blushed at his words, feeling a rush of emotion.

"Sir?" the host called after them as they stood up.

"It's just dawned on me that we have somewhere to be. Pardon me," Ash said, guiding May out of the restaurant. Once outside, Ash took her hand again. "Are you okay?" he asked softly.

"Y-Yes, Master..." May replied, blushing deeply. Ash hugged her, holding her close.

"I bet your food is a million times better anyway," he said with a smile.

"U-Uh..." May blushed even harder. Ash looked at her, his expression tender. "Thank you, Master..." she murmured.

"Of course, May," Ash replied warmly. Together, they walked away from the city, seeking a place where they could be alone.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Eventually, they found their way to a small field on a hill that overlooked the entire city down below. "This looks like a good spot. I wish for a picnic for the two of us," Ash declared.

"Yes, Master." May snapped her fingers, and a beautiful picnic set-up appeared. They sat together, and Ash held her close, his presence comforting and reassuring. May blushed slightly, feeling a mix of emotions. Ash smiled at her, and she blushed profusely, her heart swelling with warmth and gratitude.

"Well, it won't eat itself," Ash said with a grin. May silently took a plate, following Ash's lead as he gathered food. She took only a small portion, watching him closely. "Thank you," Ash said, his voice sincere.

"You're welcome, Master," May replied softly.

"Look, Pikachu! She even set up a pile of berries for you," Ash exclaimed.

"Yes!" Pikachu jumped off Ash's shoulder and eagerly ran over to the pile of berries. Ash smiled and began to eat, clearly enjoying the meal. May ate quietly, her movements delicate and precise.

"This is awesome!" Ash declared, his enthusiasm evident. May blushed at his praise, her cheeks turning a soft pink. Ash continued to smile, still holding her close. Her blush deepened as she finished her plate. Soon after Ash set his plate down with a satisfied sigh. "That was great."

"As you wished, Master," May responded, in her standard matter-of-fact tone. Ash nodded and rested for a moment, his eyes closing in contentment. May looked at him curiously, her gaze softening. When Ash opened his eyes, he noticed her watching him. May blushed and quickly looked away.

"You okay?" Ash asked, concern in his voice.

"Y-Yes, Master," May stammered.

"Good..." Ash smiled, his eyes filled with kindness. May's blush intensified as she watched him shut his eyes again. She looked up at the clouds, lost in thought. "May...?" Ash's voice broke the silence.

"Yes, Master?" she replied, turning to look at him.

"I wish to improve Kalos's class system so everyone can lead happier lives," Ash said, his voice filled with determination.

"Improve in what way?" May asked, her voice cautious.

"I wish it would become less strict. More fair and even," Ash explained. May bit her lower lip, uncertainty clouding her features. Ash opened his eyes, sensing her apprehension. "Is that too complicated an ask?"

"I-I…" May sighed and then nodded slightly. "My powers cannot bring harm or misfortune to others... Many of the higher classes make a large portion of their wealth from the slave trade... Such a wish would affect the entire Kingdom... and not all in a good way... So I am unsure if such a wish would be possible."

"Then... I wish that the slaves would at least be treated with more dignity and care," Ash said, his voice gentle.

"Yes, Master," May replied, snapping her fingers. Ash gently ran his fingers along her torso, causing May to blush heavily and freeze.

"We still have time before sunset... Mind if we just... rest?" he asked.

"Y...Yes... M-Master..." May struggled to find her voice.

"Yes, you do mind?" Ash inquired, confusion in his eyes.

"I-I will... do as you... wish, Master," May stammered.

"Okay..." Ash said tiredly, laying back on the blanket and holding her like a lover. May stayed perfectly still, her heart pounding while tears welled in her eyes. Despite her fears, Ash did nothing harmful. Instead, he fell asleep with an innocent look on his face. Silently, May let her tears fall. "May..." Ash murmured in his sleep. May blushed, feeling a mix of emotions. Ash snuggled up to her, making her wince slightly. Subconsciously, he ran a finger along her stomach, causing her to flinch. Ash napped peacefully, his touch following a soothing pattern that made May feel unexpectedly tired. Her eyelids grew heavy for the first time in millennia.

"Huh...?" May whispered, unable to comprehend the sensation.

"May..." Ash muttered sleepily. May yawned, feeling an overwhelming fatigue.

"This is... this is impossible..." she whispered. Ash hugged her closer, his warmth comforting her as fatigue consumed her. Despite her disbelief, May found herself drifting off, falling asleep for the first time in centuries.

A couple of hours later, May slowly opened her eyes, the world around her coming back into focus. She felt Ash's faint moan as he cradled her, his body warm and comforting against hers. Blushing bright red, she shifted slightly. Ash's eyes fluttered open, and he smiled gently at her.

"I've never woken up to a better sight," he murmured.

"I-I..." May stammered, her blush deepening.

"You look rested," Ash noted, his voice soft.

"I don't know how, Master..." May replied, a hint of confusion in her tone. Ash nuzzled her nose gently. May flinched, and he immediately pulled back.

"Sorry," he said softly. May looked down quietly, her cheeks still burning. "You're just... really cute," Ash confessed, his eyes filled with admiration. May blushed profusely, her heart pounding. Ash slowly found himself inching closer and closer to her face. May's eyes widened, and she froze. Ash stopped, hovering just over her lips. "I like you, May... I like you a lot," he whispered.

"...M...M-Master..." May struggled to speak, her voice barely a whisper. Ash laid there silently, not making another move. "...A...As you wish... M-Master..." May stammered, her voice trembling. Ash tilted his head, searching her eyes. "You... You may do as you wish, Master," May said, her voice almost breaking. Ash closed the distance and kissed her softly. May flinched slightly, and Ash immediately pulled away, letting go of her.

"Sorry..! I shouldn't have..." Ash began, his voice filled with regret.

"...You may do as you wish..." May repeated, looking down in what almost mirrored shame.

"I didn't really give you a choice... Sorry for backing you into a corner... I don't know what's wrong with me lately..." Ash said, his voice heavy with guilt.

"...My Master can do as he wishes..." May insisted quietly.

"Please stop repeating that, May... It's not true. I can't just do what I want without restraint..." Ash said, his voice firm.

"...Yes, you can, Master..." May said, looking at him with pain-filled eyes. Ash slowly looked at the ring on his finger.

"No... I can't..."

"Only my Master's wish matters..." May insisted.

"I don't deserve it..." Ash murmured, his voice barely audible.

"What...?" May asked, her confusion growing. Ash sighed, avoiding her gaze. "What are you talking about, Master...?" May asked softly.

"I don't deserve to just do anything I want," Ash repeated, his tone firm.

"It's what being my Master is all about..." May said, her voice tinged with confusion and sadness. Ash shook his head, his expression troubled. Both of them sat in a heavy silence for a few moments before Ash changed the subject, not wanting to ruin their outing any further.

"...The sun is going down," he noted, changing the subject. May looked over.

"Oh...right…"

"Shall we?" Ash asked, standing up and offering his hand.

"Yes, Master..." May replied, taking his hand. They walked back into town quietly, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the city. The weight of their unspoken words hung between them, but they moved forward, side by side.

Ash looked ahead as they walked, their destination in sight. May stood by the railing, her eyes fixed on the sundial.

"Any minute now?" Ash asked. May nodded in response, her gaze unwavering. As the nearby clock tower chimed for 8 PM, the rings of the sundial began to spin one by one. The sun's rays shone through the hole in the crystal, and sparkles started to fall from the sky, creating the illusion of snow. The entire town was bathed in an ethereal glow, the sparkles shimmering in the twilight.

"Ah…" May's eyes widened in awe at the sight.

"Whoa..." Ash murmured, equally mesmerized. May watched the glow and sparkles around them, a genuine smile spreading across her face for the first time since she had been cursed. Ash noticed and smiled wide, filled with a sense of wonder and joy.

"Wow…" she whispered. They watched the light show together for the full ten minutes, captivated by its beauty. When it finally faded away, Ash turned to May.

"You have a beautiful smile," he said softly. May's eyes widened as she realized he had been watching her instead of the sundial. A blush crept along her cheeks. "I'd like to see it more often," Ash added, his tone sincere.

"Surely you must understand how difficult that is, Master," May replied, her voice tinged with sadness.

"We could make it a little less difficult," Ash suggested.

"How so, Master?" May asked, curiosity in her eyes.

"We just gotta see what else we can do or see that will make you happy," Ash explained.

"But... my purpose is to serve you..." May said, her voice hesitant.

"That may be, but all that means is you have to help me get what I want. And what I want to do is help you be happy again," Ash replied with a gentle smile. May blushed deeply, once again faced with the idea that maybe he was going to be different from the other masters she had before. Finally, she began to consider, that maybe there really was a chance.

"Then... I guess my job is to help you get what you want..." She finally decided.

"There you go," Ash said, breaking out into a big grin as he felt himself finally break through to her somewhat. May smiled softly, the blush making her cheeks glow. "I hope it was worth the trip," Ash said, his smile warm.

"Yes, Master," May nodded, her eyes shining.

"I wish we were back at the oasis home," Ash said wistfully.

"As you wish," May replied, snapping her fingers. In an instant, they found themselves back at their serene oasis home, the tranquility of the place embracing them. The memory of the ethereal light show lingered in their minds, a shared experience that had brought them closer, and given them both a much-needed dose of hope.

Ash stretched his arms above his head, feeling the pleasant pull of his muscles. The sun hung a bit past its zenith, indicating it was just after noon in their current time zone. May watched him silently, her eyes following the arc of his stretch.

"Hm?" Ash glanced at her curiously.

"Nothing, Master," she replied quickly, looking down at her feet with a hint of shame for her staring.

"Alright." Ash gave her a sheepish smile, then scratched his head. "Well, now I have no idea what to do for the rest of the day."

"You have done more than enough to warrant yourself some time to relax, Master." she reminded him. Ash nodded, still looking somewhat uncertain. "If you wish," May continued, "I'd be happy to provide you with something to help with that."

"I'd appreciate it," Ash said, grateful for her offer. With a snap of her fingers, May conjured several options, each one materializing in the air around them like a floating menu. Activities ranged from sports and swimming to reading and relaxing.

"Whoa," Ash exclaimed, eyes wide.

"I was unsure if you'd prefer to relax or engage in another activity," May explained.

"Will you be joining me?" Ash asked, returning her smile.

"If you'd like," May replied.

"I do enjoy having you around," Ash admitted.

"As you wish," she said with a nod.

"Can we go swimming?" Ash asked eagerly.

"Yes, Master," May confirmed. Ash's face lit up with a bright smile. With another snap of her fingers, May created a full-sized swimming pool behind the mansion. It sparkled invitingly in the afternoon sun.

"Awesome," Ash said, clearly impressed. May gave a tiny smile, pleased by his reaction. "I wish we were in swimming clothes,"

"Yes, Master," May said. She snapped her fingers once more, and Ash found himself now dressed in brand-new swimming trunks. Beside him, May was now holding a bikini in her arms, unable to materialize anything on her own body per her powers' limitations. Ash grinned at the transformation. "If you would excuse me for a moment, Master,"

"Of course." Ash nodded, watching as May walked back to her room. He then made his way outside, Pikachu trotting happily beside him. Ash stepped outside, taking in the sight of the newly created pool. He glanced down at Pikachu and the two shared a smile. "Hey,"

"Hi," Pikachu responded.

"I don't know what I expected yesterday morning when I was banished," Ash began, his tone contemplative. "But it wasn't this."

"I'm not sure anyone would've guessed this," Pikachu said, shaking his head. Ash looked at Pikachu with a curious smile.

"How's your bed?"

"It totally beats the one back home," Pikachu replied, grinning. Ash chuckled and scratched his head. Pikachu studied him for a moment before speaking again. "At times, you seem happier here than you ever did back home."

"W-well...you know why..." Ash's smile wavered as his cheeks lit up in a blush.

"I do." Pikachu nodded. A brief silence fell between them. "It's good, what you're trying to do for her," Pikachu said softly.

"Heh..." Ash responded, a nervous smile tugging at his lips. Pikachu smiled too, patting Ash's leg with his paw.

"My boy has finally grown up." he teased.

"Oh, shut up!" Ash retorted, groaning. Pikachu laughed, then nuzzled Ash's leg affectionately.

"You know I'm happy for you."

"Calm down. I-it's not like she's my—" Ash started, but was interrupted.

"Sorry for the wait, Master," May called out, approaching them.

"H-Hi, May," Ash stammered, looking at her. The bikini hugged and accentuated her body far more than her normal outfit, and he found himself completely unable to look away from her. If she was stunning before, she was now utterly breathtaking.

"It's...been a long time since I've worn something different..." May blushed slightly.

"It suits you," Ash said, smiling warmly.

"Thank you, Master," May replied, her blush deepening. Ash offered his hand to her, and she timidly accepted. Together, they walked towards the water, May carefully following Ash's lead. Ash smiled warmly at May as they stood in the pool. She shivered slightly, feeling the cool water.

"Thought you couldn't get cold," Ash remarked.

"I haven't...not for centuries..." May looked puzzled.

"Maybe it's about wanting it?" Ash gave a small, thoughtful smile.

"My powers can't affect me…" May shook her head. "Even if the water was cold, I wouldn't feel it."

"But I want you to enjoy yourself and spend time with you," Ash said. "Maybe in a way, this is part of the wish?"

"I...don't know, Master..." May admitted. Ash held her gently, and she blushed. "I'm...not quite sure what to do..."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked.

"I haven't...played...in two millennia, Master," she explained. Ash's smile widened.

"Let's start with this!" he said, splashing her playfully.

"Eek!" May squealed in surprise. Ash smirked as she moved her wet hair back from her face and looked at him.

"Your move," he challenged.

"A...As you wish Master…" May dove into the deeper water, and Ash quickly followed. She swam to the bottom, then used the pool floor to push off and surface with a big splash, soaking him with a wave.

"Ack!" Ash exclaimed, laughing. May gave a small, triumphant smile. "Oh, now you're gonna get it," Ash teased, smirking. May's eyes widened, and she blushed as he dove underwater. She gulped, looking for him from the water's surface. Ash motioned for Pikachu to prepare his Iron Tail. Pikachu tilted his head in confusion at first, but then Ash made a splashing motion and pointed to Pikachu's tail. Understanding dawned, and Pikachu gave a small nod. Ash then shot up to the surface, splashing May with everything he had. "Pikachu!" he called out.

"Hi-yah!" Pikachu swung his Iron Tail, creating a wave that completely drenched May. She quickly surfaced, gasping for air.

"Are you okay?" Ash asked, chuckling. May shook out her hair, looking slightly frazzled.

"Yes, Master...just wet..."

"Good." Ash smiled at her. May gave a small smile in return. Ash hugged her from behind, and she blushed heavily. He playfully stuck out his tongue, making her blush even harder.

"Gotcha," Ash whispered.

"So it would seem…" she whispered back. They each shared a small smile.

"Gonna do anything about it?" he teased. May's blush deepened, and she smiled shyly.

"I'm not sure there's much I can do, Master..."

"Oh?" Ash teased again.

"I'm incapable of fighting my Master," May explained softly. Ash chuckled.

"Fight is such a strong word," he joked, nuzzling her affectionately. May's blush spread across her cheeks. Ash smiled at her, and she returned a small, tender smile. Pikachu watched the exchange with a smile of his own. Ash held May close, enjoying the moment. "Maybe just enjoy the moment, then."

"I-I can try…" May nodded, still blushing. Ash watched May for a moment before speaking again, an idea crossing his mind.

"You know what, I've seen you smile, now I wanna hear you laugh." he declared.

"U-Uh..." May blushed.

"Problem?" Ash asked with a smile.

"I'm...not sure how, Master..." May admitted, looking a bit uncertain.

"Listen to Pikachu and my banter for a while, and that'll solve that. Of course, it'll probably be at one of our expenses." Ash chuckled. May looked at him in confusion as Ash grinned. "Of course, I have an easier way," he said, reaching out to tickle her. May gasped and started laughing uncontrollably. "There you go!" Ash exclaimed, pleased. May continued to laugh, her voice light and musical. Finally, Ash stopped to give her a moment to breathe. As she panted, Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Your laugh is as pretty as your smile," he said softly.

"T-Thank you...Master..." May blushed hard. Ash smiled at her warmly. He ran a finger gently along her skin, causing her to tremble slightly. Then, he let go and swam away, diving under to enjoy the water. May watched him for a moment before diving under the water to follow. She observed him from below, admiring the way he moved through the water. Ash surfaced, and May swam up to join him.

"Hey," Ash greeted her.

"Hello, Master," May replied. Ash held her cheek gently, causing her to blush hard. He smiled wide at her. "M-Master...?" she stammered.

"Sorry...I just think..." Ash started, but hesitated. May looked at him in confusion. "I...might be in love," he confessed. May's eyes widened in shock. Ash gave a nervous chuckle. "May...?" May breathed a bit heavily, her mind racing.

"Master..." Ash smiled at her, trying to convey his sincerity.

"May?" he repeated sheepishly when she didn't respond. May panted slightly, her thoughts in turmoil.

"I-I...May I...be excused, Master...?" Ash looked down, feeling a pang of disappointment.

"…Yes," he nodded. May quickly got out of the pool and hurried inside. She closed her door and leaned her forehead against it, trying to stop her head from spinning. She felt another panic attack coming quickly, and she had to try and stop it before she broke down again.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Still out in the pool, Ash sighed heavily, feeling the weight of the moment. Pikachu looked at him sadly, sensing his friend's distress. Ash looked over at Pikachu, who met his gaze with sympathetic eyes.

"I'm sorry, Ash..." Pikachu said softly.

"It was a long shot anyway," Ash replied with a resigned sigh.

"She probably just needs more time," Pikachu suggested. Ash rubbed the back of his neck.

"I definitely haven't helped... I don't know where my self-control has gone lately..."

"Like you said, you're in love... and from what we've gathered, she hasn't had much, if any, good experiences of being with someone that way," Pikachu reasoned.

"Even so... I don't know if love is the right word for my motivator... I haven't exactly been practicing what I preach," Ash admitted.

"You can't be perfect, Ash," Pikachu reminded him.

"But I shouldn't force myself on her just because I know she can't resist..." Ash said, guilt evident in his voice.

"I don't think you would," Pikachu said firmly.

"What do you call me kissing and touching her then?" Ash asked, frustration and shame mingling in his tone.

"Mistakes that can be remedied... It's not like you've raped her," Pikachu replied gently.

"I wouldn't be acting like that if she wasn't my slave," Ash said, his voice dropping to a whisper.

"We both know your intention isn't to harm or use her," Pikachu reassured him. Ash fell silent, contemplating Pikachu's words. "You want what anyone who's in love wants... to make her happy," Pikachu continued. Ash gave a small, grateful smile. "And you've got a whole lifetime to help her see that."

"I'd free her in an instant if I could..." Ash said quietly.

"I know you would have. But you're still doing what you can to help her," Pikachu said. Ash nodded slowly. "And it is working. Just... slowly." Pikachu nuzzled him. "You're a good person. She'll find out when she's ready."

"Thanks Pikachu…" Ash smiled at his loyal friend, feeling a bit lighter. Pikachu smiled back. Deciding he'd had enough for now, Ash climbed out of the pool, and Pikachu shook out his fur, sending droplets flying. Ash grabbed a towel and took a deep breath, steeling himself. "Come on," he said, walking inside. Pikachu followed him, offering silent support as they made their way back into the mansion.

Ash headed to his room, Pikachu bounding ahead and jumping into his bed. Ash smiled as Pikachu curled up and closed his eyes, quickly drifting off to sleep. With a sigh, Ash walked to May's room. Inside, May was adjusting her headdress and sighing softly, having changed back into her normal attire. Ash knocked gently on the door.

"Yes, Master...?" May responded, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Sorry to bother you. Can I have a clean set of clothes?" Ash asked.

"Yes, Master..." May snapped her fingers, and a fresh set of clothes appeared in his hands.

"Thank you," Ash said.

"Yes, Master..." May repeated, her tone subdued. Ash hesitated for a moment, then looked towards her again.

"Could I have a closet of clothes to change into?" he requested, hoping that it would help lessen his reliance on her and her magic.

"Yes, Master..." May snapped her fingers again, and a closet appeared, filled with various outfits.

"Thank you," Ash said once more.

"Yes, Master..." May replied quietly. Ash turned to leave but paused at the door.

"I'm going to…take the afternoon to relax…I...I would be glad of your company... if you don't mind..." he said, then walked away. May looked up a little, surprised by his request. Ash continued to his room, feeling a mix of emotions. May sat on her bed quietly for a moment, her mind racing. She hesitated, but ultimately, she decided to follow him, knowing that she had avoided another panic attack for now, and she did promise him she'd try to be better. Slowly, she got up and made her way to his room, her footsteps soft against the floor. Ash smiled when he saw May enter his room. She walked timidly inside, keeping her hands folded in front of her. "Hey," Ash greeted her softly as he sat on his bed.

"Hi…" May stood there for a moment, uncertain, until Ash motioned to the spot beside him. She tensed a little but did as he asked, sitting down beside him. Ash began reading a book, and after a moment, he wrapped an arm around her. May blushed and stayed still, feeling the warmth of his touch. Ash smiled slightly, feeling relaxed by her presence. After a while, Ash gently began caressing her as he read. May flinched at first, but Ash continued reading, his soft touch eventually having a calming effect on her.

"How...?" she murmured, feeling an unusual sense of peace. Her eyes slowly drifted shut, and she fell asleep. Ash barely noticed, absorbed in his book. When he felt her weight on his shoulder, he shifted slightly and smiled, seeing her sleeping peacefully. He leaned in and kissed her forehead gently, a gesture of affection that made his heart swell. May remained undisturbed, sleeping soundly.

May slowly opened her eyes, blinking away the remnants of her nap. The evening sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the room.

"Hey, sleepyhead," Ash said, closing the book he had been reading. May's cheeks flushed a deep crimson. She felt a warmth spread through her, contrasting with the growing panic she felt after realizing she had dozed off again.

"I-I..." Ash's gentle smile made her heart flutter.

"Cozy?" he asked. She nodded, unable to meet his eyes.

"M-My apologies, Master..."

"You did nothing wrong," Ash reassured her, his voice soft and kind. May looked down, her fingers twisting nervously in her lap. Before she could say anything more, she felt a sudden tickle on her side. She jumped and started laughing, the sound bubbling out of her uncontrollably. Ash's grin widened. "There. If you really felt like you needed some kind of punishment," he teased, giving her a cheeky smile. May laughed and squirmed, her laughter filling the room. She was breathless by the time he stopped, her sides aching pleasantly from the unexpected playfulness. "No need to be so tense, May," Ash said, his smile never fading.

"M-Master..." May panted lightly, trying to catch her breath. Ash's innocent smile made her blush even more. She sat up a little, feeling a bit more composed.

"You're cute when you're asleep," Ash said, his tone light and affectionate. May's heart skipped a beat.

"It shouldn't be possible...I don't sleep…"

"Well, it is," Ash replied, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

"But why...?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You sure you lost count? How many masters have you served?" Ash inquired, leaning closer.

"99..." May answered, her voice tinged with a hint of disbelief.

"Maybe it's because I'm the last one." Ash smiled warmly. May's mind raced. Could it really be possible? Could he be the one?

"I...I guess it's possible..." Ash nuzzled her nose gently, sending a shiver down her spine. She blushed profusely, feeling a warmth spread through her entire being. Ash playfully tapped her cheek. "U-Uh..." she stammered, her thoughts a jumbled mess. Ash sat up and offered his hand to her. She hesitated for a moment, then accepted it, feeling a strange sense of comfort in his touch. He helped her to her feet, his smile never wavering.

"You're fun to have around," he said sincerely.

"Thank you, Master..." May replied, her voice filled with a cautious gratitude.

"Could you prepare dinner?" Ash asked, his tone casual yet respectful.

"Yes, Master..." May snapped her fingers, and the room seemed to come alive with the preparations for dinner.

"Thank you." Ash smiled at her.

"You're welcome, Master..." May said, her cheeks still pink from their earlier exchange. Ash walked down to the dining room, and May followed him, her heart lighter than it had been in a long time. She gave a tiny smile, feeling a new sense of hope blossoming within her.

The aroma of dinner lingered in the air as Ash loaded up his plate.

"Care for anything?" he asked, his voice gentle.

"I am fine, Master." May shook her head.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, Master."

"Okay..." Ash said, his tone carrying a hint of resignation. May folded her hands neatly in her lap, her gaze lowered. The room was quiet, save for the soft clink of cutlery as Ash continued his meal. After a moment, he set his fork down and looked at her with a thoughtful expression. "I will insist on one thing, however." May lifted her head, curiosity piqued. Ash smiled, his eyes twinkling. "Let's share dessert."

"As you wish, Master." May's cheeks tinged pink. Ash resumed eating, and May took the seat beside him. He smiled at her, and she felt a warm blush spread across her face. The quiet companionship was comforting, and she sat quietly as he finished his meal. When Ash set down his fork for the last time, he looked over at May.

"Dessert?" he asked, a playful note in his voice.

"Yes, Master," May replied. With a snap of her fingers, the dinner buffet vanished, replaced by a lavish spread of desserts.

"Whoa..." Ash's eyes widened in surprise.

"As you wished," May said, smiling a little despite herself. Ash grinned at her, his eyes lighting up with delight.

"I wish I had room to try all of these," he said, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead at the sheer variety before him.

"Yes, Master." May nodded and snapped her fingers again.

"Oh, I didn't mean—whoa..." Ash felt an odd sensation in his stomach.

"Oops..." May said, a touch of embarrassment coloring her voice.

"What'd you do exactly?" Ash asked, tilting his head slightly.

"I believe the best term would be... rapid digestion," May explained. Ash's brow furrowed. "The already eaten food was broken down and digested in a matter of seconds, giving you the 'room' you wished for."

"Huh..." May looked down, a bead of sweat forming on her own forehead. "Is that... permanent?"

"I am unsure... it should have only affected the food itself..." Ash nodded slowly, processing this new information. "My apologies," May said softly.

"It's alright," Ash replied, his voice kind. May sighed, relieved but still a bit embarrassed. Ash chuckled, a bit ruefully. "I probably should have phrased that differently."

"It's not the first time, Master," May said, shaking her head slightly. Ash tilted his head, intrigued. "Many Masters take time to learn their word choice... though that usually happens after only one or two mistakes."

"I see."

"One can only speak a wish out of turn so many times before getting the idea..." May continued, a small smile playing on her lips. Ash nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes.

"I suppose I'll learn too." May's smile widened slightly, as Ash looked at the spread of desserts before them and then back at May. "Shall we?" he asked, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

"Yes, Master," May replied, her voice soft but eager. Ash smiled and began to eat, savoring each bite. May took a small portion for herself, tasting it cautiously.

"Mm!" Ash exclaimed, his delight evident. May smiled a little, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. She ate a bit more, enjoying the sweetness. As she licked a bit of frosting off her finger, she caught Ash's amused gaze. "Someone has a sweet tooth," he teased.

"I-I..." May blushed harder. Before she could finish her sentence, Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek, sneakily licking off a bit of ice cream that had smeared there. May's cheeks turned a deep crimson as she stared at him in surprise. Ash snickered at her reaction. "I... vaguely remember enjoying it," May said, her voice tinged with shyness.

"I'm glad." Ash smiled warmly. May returned his smile with a tiny one of her own, setting her plate down. "Thank you," Ash said.

"You're welcome, Master," May replied, feeling a sense of fulfillment. Ash's smile never faded as he leaned in and kissed her cheek again, making her blush even more. Then, he stood up, looking at her with a gentle expression.

"Master..." May's heart raced as she looked up at him. Ash took her hand, his smile reassuring.

"Yeah?"

"I... wish to apologize for my earlier behavior," she said, her voice trembling slightly.

"Huh?" Ash looked puzzled.

"It was... improper to leave after such a statement," May continued, her eyes cast downward, obviously referencing her abrupt exit earlier when they were in the new pool.

"Oh. It's okay," Ash said softly.

"Intellectually, I know that it came from a good place within you..." May's voice was quiet, almost a whisper. Ash gave her a small, understanding smile. "I just... cannot emotionally separate that from the 'love' of previous Masters," May admitted, her voice breaking a little.

"I see," Ash said, his voice filled with empathy.

"I wish I could, Master," May whispered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. Without a word, Ash pulled her into a gentle hug. May's blush deepened as she felt his warmth envelop her. "I'm sorry, Master," she said, her voice muffled against his shoulder.

"I understand," Ash replied, holding her close. They stood in silence for a moment, the weight of unspoken emotions hanging between them. Finally, Ash pulled back slightly, giving her a reassuring smile. May looked at him in surprise, his smile catching her off guard. "What?"

"I just... did not expect a smile after a statement such as that," she said.

"You make me smile," Ash said simply.

"I..." May's heart fluttered. Ash smiled at her once more.

"Well, I'm off to bed."

"Goodnight, Master," May said, her voice soft and filled with emotion.

"Goodnight, May," Ash replied, heading towards his room. May walked quietly back to her own room, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts. As she closed the door behind her, she sighed deeply. Ash shut his door, preparing for bed. May lay down and closed her eyes, trying to quiet her thoughts. But sleep eluded her, her mind replaying the events of the evening over and over. With a groan, she turned over, unable to find rest. The emotions of the day weighed heavily on her, and she wondered how long it would take for her heart to heal from the past and fully embrace the present.

The night had settled in, casting a silvery glow over everything. May sat on her window seat, staring out at the moon. The cool evening breeze flowed gently towards Ash's room, rustling the leaves outside. She sighed, glancing at her door, which remained firmly shut.

"What is wrong with me?" she muttered to herself. "I know better than to think like this…"

"I might be in love." Ash's voice rattled in her head despite her attempts to shake it out.

"Stop it...! He'll show it just like all the others eventually...the greed will make him just like the others…" Yet, Ash's gentle nature resonated deeply within her, making her groan as she hugged her knees to her chest. "Why couldn't he have been the one I was promised to all that time ago...?" she wondered aloud. Her eyes fell on the door, which seemed to still beckon her. She hesitated for a moment before giving in to the temptation and walked over to it. She slowly opened it and stepped out into the hallway, moving silently toward Ash's room. Ash was fast asleep, his breathing deep and peaceful. May sat down in the hall outside his door, resting her head against the outer doorframe. She closed her eyes and listened quietly, finding a strange comfort in the sound of his steady breathing. A small smile tugged at her lips.

"May..." she heard Ash murmur in his sleep.

"Huh...?" She lifted her head slightly.

"May..." he said again, his voice soft and filled with a child's longing. May's heart ached as she lay her head back down, closing her eyes. Ash's breathing was peaceful, a rhythmic lullaby that gradually pulled her into sleep.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

About an hour or so later, Ash stirred and rubbed his eyes. He noticed a quiet figure outside his door.

"Huh...?" Ash walked towards his door, opening it slowly to see who was there. May, now asleep, leaned against the doorframe, her face relaxed and serene. He gave a tiny smile, his heart warmed by the sight of her. Gently, he lifted her into his arms.

"Mm…" May instinctively rested her head against his chest, her breathing deep and even. Ash's smile widened as he carried her to his bed, laying her down gently. She looked truly at peace, a sight that filled him with a deep sense of protectiveness.

"Sleep well May…" He lay down beside her, watching her for a moment before sleep claimed him once again. May slept on, her face relaxed in a way it rarely was, finding solace in the closeness they shared.

In the morning, May slowly opened her eyes, her vision adjusting to the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. Beside her, Ash was still sound asleep, his breathing steady and peaceful. She felt her cheeks heat up as she realized how close they were. Ash stirred slightly, moving his head to rest gently against her shoulder. May's face turned a bright red, her heart pounding in her chest. She gulped, trying to piece together her fragmented memories of the previous night. Just then, Ash's eyes fluttered open. He blinked a few times before focusing on her.

"Hello," he said, his voice soft and warm from sleep.

"M-My apologies, Master..." May stammered, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her. Ash shook his head.

"It's alright."

"I-I don't know how I..." she began, but Ash cut her off gently.

"I woke up after hearing you fall asleep outside my door. I figured you'd be more comfortable in a bed," he explained.

"O-Oh..." May said, feeling a mix of relief and continued embarrassment.

"No harm done," Ash reassured her with a slight smile. May nodded nervously, still blushing. Ash sat up, stretching his arms above his head and letting out a big yawn. She watched him, unable to look away. He turned his gaze back to her, giving her another small smile. She felt her cheeks flush again but managed to return the smile, albeit timidly. Ash extended his hand towards her. "Come on," he said. May hesitated for a moment before accepting his hand. He helped her to her feet with a gentle pull.

"Thank you," she murmured. Ash nodded, his expression kind.

"Did you want to visit anywhere else today?" he asked. May looked at him in surprise. "May?"

"Yes, Master...?"

"Did you?" he repeated.

"I-I never thought about it..." she admitted.

"That's ok," he replied with a small smile.

"I'd have to research, Master..." she added

"It's okay. No pressure," Ash said, his smile reassuring.

"Thank you, Master," May said, feeling a bit more at ease. Ash smiled again, and May found herself giving him a small smile in return. He then sat back down on the edge of the bed, pulling over the travel book that she had left resting on the nightstand. May tilted her head in curiosity, and a small smile tugged at her lips as Ash handed it to her. She opened the book, flipping through the pages while Ash looked over her shoulder.

"Anything catch your eye?" he inquired.

"Everywhere just holds something different..." she murmured. Ash nodded in agreement. "It's hard to choose..." After a few more flips, May paused on a page, pointing at it. "Perhaps...this one?" she suggested. Ash leaned in to see. "Lillycove Village," she read aloud, "one of the biggest in the world..."

"I see." Ash nodded again, listening intently.

"The...slave laws are much more lax there than here or in Kalos as well..." May continued.

"I see..." Ash said thoughtfully.

"If that meets with your approval, Master..." May added, looking up at him.

"So what exactly does this mean for us?" Ash asked. "Does it mean they are just more indifferent with slaves, or are they not legal?"

"They are legal and frequent," May explained, "but they are not looked down upon as much as the people of Kalos do..." Ash nodded in understanding, and May gave a small nod in return. Ash's smile grew a little wider, causing May to blush again. He motioned Pikachu over, and the little Pokémon yawned as he walked over to join them. Ash smiled slightly as Pikachu climbed into his lap, purring contentedly while Ash petted him.

"Still tired?" Ash asked with a chuckle.

"Very…" Pikachu nodded, causing both Ash and May to smile. Ash continued to pet Pikachu, who cooed happily.

"Heh..." Ash murmured, glancing at May, who was watching them with a soft smile. Ash noticed her blush deepen when he looked directly at her. "What?" he asked, smiling.

"N-Nothing..." May stammered. Ash reached out and took her hand, causing her to blush even harder.

"Can you make us breakfast?" he asked gently.

"Y-Yes, Master..." May replied, trying to steady her voice.

"Thank you," Ash said, leaning in to nuzzle her affectionately. May's face turned a deep shade of red. Ash smiled at her warmly. "Could you bring it here so I don't have to disturb Mr. Sleepy?" he asked, glancing at Pikachu who was now dozing in his lap.

"Yes, Master." May nodded and snapped her fingers, summoning the breakfast from the kitchen to the bed.

"Thank you," Ash said, his smile never fading.

"You're welcome, Master," May replied, her voice soft and her blush still evident. Ash looked at her with gratitude, and May couldn't help but blush softly in return. Ash began eating his breakfast, while May watched him from the side.

"Care for anything?" Ash offered, looking up at her.

"I-I shouldn't, Master..." May replied hesitantly.

"Why not?" Ash asked, puzzled.

"I-I..." May trailed off, unsure how to explain.

"Why is this different from the other meals we've had?" Ash pressed gently.

"Well…" May looked down at the bed, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink. Ash noticed her discomfort and gave her a small, reassuring smile.

"C'mon," he encouraged softly. May nodded, rubbing her arm nervously.

"A-As you wish..." she said, accepting a little bit of food from him. Ash smiled warmly as she took a bite, then turned his attention to Pikachu, who was still contentedly cooing in his lap. He petted Pikachu, chuckling as the Pokémon smiled up at him.

"Well then," Ash said after a moment, looking at May. She looked back at him, curious.

"Yes, Master?"

"Pikachu permitting, I'm ready to depart," Ash said with a grin. May smiled a little, watching the interaction between Ash and Pikachu. Ash looked down at Pikachu. "Well?" he asked playfully.

"Nah…" Pikachu yawned, making Ash laugh.

"I'll wish for ketchup if you wake up," he teased. Pikachu's eyes widened, and he bolted upright. Ash smiled, while May giggled at the sight. "I told you listening to us would make you laugh," Ash said, pleased to see her smile.

"I-I guess you did…" May blushed softly, but smiled back at him.

"Can you give him a small container with ketchup?" Ash asked.

"Yes, Master." May snapped her fingers, and a small container of ketchup appeared.

"Happy now?" Ash asked Pikachu, who immediately started drinking from the bottle. "I'll take that as a yes," Ash said, amused. May smiled at the scene, feeling more at ease as Ash's attention returned to her. "I wish we were in Lilycove," Ash said thoughtfully.

"Yes, Master," May replied, snapping her fingers again. Ash smiled as they felt the magical transition.

"Thank you, May." She smiled a little in response, as Ash looked around the bustling market, then turned to May with a smile. "Lead the way."

"M-Me...?" May stammered, surprised.

"You wanted to come here." Ash smiled warmly.

"I-I'm just the slave, Master...it's not my place to lead," she replied, her voice faltering. Ash stepped closer and wrapped his arms around her waist.

"There," he said softly. May's face turned a deep shade of red, her heart racing. "Now I can take you," Ash continued, still smiling.

"I-I…"

"Now, where are we headed?" he asked, glancing around. May looked over at the large market down the street.

"I've...never really been to a big open market such as that," she admitted. Ash took her hand and began walking her over. May blushed but followed his lead. They approached a shop, and May peeked inside curiously. "Wow..." she whispered, taking in the sight of all the handcrafted items.

"Anything interest you?" Ash asked, his smile encouraging.

"Truthfully...everything does, Master," May said, her eyes wide with wonder. "All these things were made by hand...someone worked long and hard at their own expense to make each item...they didn't just will it into being with a finger snap..." Ash smiled, appreciating her perspective.

"I can't just buy the shop for you," he teased. May's eyes widened in fear.

"I-I'd never ask that, Master! I only meant—" Ash interrupted her with a gentle peck on the lips.

"I'm just teasing May. Go around and decide on five things you would like," he said softly. Her face turned beet red as Ash let go of her, even as she remained too surprised to move. "Come on now. Don't keep your Master waiting," he added with a playful smile.

"Y-Yes, Master..." May said, walking quietly as she began to explore the shop. Ash followed her gaze, observing her reactions. She stopped in front of an ocean-blue pendant, her eyes shining with admiration. The color was a striking contrast to the old green gem on her headdress.

"Like that?" Ash asked, noticing her interest.

"Yes, Master... It's lovely...like it was carved from the ocean itself..." May blushed a bit more. Ash smiled, pleased with her choice.

"Heh," he chuckled softly, making May smile a small smile of her own. Ash looked around the shop, then walked over to her. "Anything else?" he asked.

"No Master." May shook her head.

"If you're certain," Ash said, and she nodded in confirmation. Ash moved to the front of the shop, with May following closely behind. "Pardon me," he said to the clerk.

"Yes, sir?" the clerk responded.

"We would like to purchase this pendant," Ash stated.

"Very well," the clerk replied "Would you like that gift wrapped?"

"Why not?" Ash nodded. The clerk nodded in return and took the pendant to wrap it up. Ash smiled at May, who tilted her head in confusion.

"Gift wrapped, Master...?" she asked softly.

"I didn't buy it for me," Ash said with a smile. May blushed, realizing he intended that the pendant was for her, something she was still getting used to.

"Thank you, Master..."

"You're welcome," Ash replied, his smile warm and genuine. May smiled softly in return, feeling a deep sense of gratitude as she carefully replaced the gen in her headdress with the new one Ash had given her. "Come on," Ash said, leading her out of the shop.

"Where...?" May asked.

"There are more shops here, aren't there?" Ash replied. May nodded. "Shall we then?" Ash offered his hand. May blushed and accepted it. Ash walked away with her, hand in hand, as they continued to explore the market together.

Soon, after they had seen most of the shops within the market, Ash looked down at May, his eyes full of warmth.

"Where else would you like to go?" he asked. May hesitated for a moment before responding.

"I've...never gotten to see the ocean...and this Kingdom is famous for it..." she suggested.

"Let's go see it then." Ash's smile widened. May blushed at his enthusiasm. Ash took her hand gently, and together they began walking toward the beach. May's cheeks turned a deeper shade of red as she felt the warmth of his hand in hers.

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the serene ocean. The waves whispered softly as they kissed the shore, creating a rhythm that calmed the heart and soothed the soul. May's eyes widened as she caught her first glimpse of the vast, blue expanse before her. She stood still, absorbing the beauty of the ocean, her breath taken away by the sight. Ash, standing beside her, noticed her amazement and smiled.

"Wow..." was all May could manage to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

"This looks really nice," Ash remarked, sharing in her awe. May slipped her foot out of her sandal and gently dipped it into the cool ocean water. The sensation sent a shiver up her spine, but it was a pleasant one.

"Ah…" She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, allowing the tide to wash over her feet and ground her in the moment. Ash watched her, his smile never fading. He admired the way the simple touch of the ocean brought such peace to her. May's lips curved into a soft smile, a reflection of the tranquility she felt.

"Care to go swimming?" Ash asked, his tone light and inviting. May looked over at him, considering the idea. Ash shrugged, adding a playful touch to his question. Her soft smile returned, and Ash couldn't help but notice. "You're smiling again," he said.

"I guess I am..." May blushed, the pink hue spreading across her cheeks. Ash grinned, delighted by her reaction.

"Shall we have some fun?" he suggested, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"As you wish." May nodded, her smile growing. Ash nuzzled her gently, and she giggled a little at his affection. He smiled at her, appreciating the sound of her laughter. With a playful spirit, May stepped a bit further out into the water, lifting her skirt to keep it dry. Ash followed suit, removing his boots and stepping closer to her.

"Think fast!" He couldn't resist splashing her, and her startled laugh echoed over the waves.

"Eek!" May laughed, kicking a bit of water back towards him.

"Ack!" Ash exclaimed in mock surprise. They both laughed, enjoying their playful exchange. "Think you're so funny, don't ya?" Ash teased. May blushed again, about to respond, but Ash playfully grabbed her and pulled her into the water.

"Eek!" she squealed, but her giggles soon followed. They swam and splashed, their laughter blending with the sound of the waves. When May surfaced above the water, Ash was right there, a grin plastered on his face. He gently poked her nose, causing her to blush a little. In a tender moment, Ash embraced her, and though she was blushing, May made an effort to return the hug. Ash smiled at her, and she smiled softly back, her blush giving way to the warmth of the moment. Together, they enjoyed the simple joys of the ocean, their hearts light and their spirits free.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

After exhausting themselves with their water games, Ash walked ashore, water dripping from his clothes as he left the ocean behind. May followed him, her eyes reflecting the serene blue of the sea. As they reached the dry sand, Ash turned to her with a smile.

"Thank you…" May said softly.

"Hm?" Ash responded, curious.

"For your kindness, I mean," she clarified, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You don't need to thank me. Everyone deserves to be treated nicely." Ash smiled warmly. May lowered her gaze and sat down near the water, watching the tide rush in and out.

"If only it were true..." Ash sat beside her, sensing the weight behind her words. "I've known many who bring that idea into question," she continued, her tone tinged with sadness. Without a word, Ash wrapped one arm around her, offering silent comfort. May looked at him in confusion, and he rested his head gently against her shoulder.

"Don't worry... I'm taking care of you..." he whispered.

"I still don't know why," she admitted, her voice wavering.

"Do I need a reason to be good to you?" Ash asked softly.

"Most do..." May replied, her voice trailing off.

"Not this guy," Ash said with a reassuring smile.

"And yet..." May began, her words hesitant.

"Hm?" Ash prompted gently.

"And yet I keep waiting for it..." she confessed, her voice almost a whisper. Ash took her hand, his touch warm and comforting.

"May..." She looked at him, her eyes searching his face for answers. Ash gazed back at her, lost in her beauty.

"Master...?" she asked tentatively.

"S-sorry," Ash stammered, pulling back slightly.

"Master..." May rubbed her arm, her cheeks flushed.

"Yeah?" Ash responded, tilting his head.

"I..." May sighed and buried her head in her knees, the weight of her thoughts too much to bear.

"Hey, it's alright. Go on," Ash encouraged, his voice gentle. May shook her head silently, unable to speak. Ash held her close. "It's alright..." May shook her head again, her eyes filled with uncertainty.

"It's nothing, Master," she replied, her voice barely audible.

"If you say so..." Ash said, reluctantly sitting up. They sat in silence for a moment, the sound of the waves filling the space between them. "I wish we were dry," Ash said suddenly. May snapped her fingers, drying his clothes instantly. Ash looked at her in surprise, noting she and her clothes were still sopping wet.

"It won't work on me..." May reminded him.

"Your clothes aren't part of you, are they?" Ash asked with a wink.

"They're still the only things that are 'mine' technically," May replied with a sigh.

"I see..." Ash said thoughtfully.

"Just one of the joys of being me..." May added with a weak smile.

"Well, that won't do at all," Ash declared, hugging her playfully. May blushed, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red.

"Huh?" Ash cuddled her in the sand, making his hands and a bit of his clothes slightly wet again.

"May? I wish everything I'm touching was dry. I want my hugs to feel warm."

"Y-Yes, Master..." May stammered, snapping her fingers again. She was visibly surprised when his idea worked and her clothes and body were dried along with his.

"Loophole," Ash chuckled.

"Yes... I suppose there are a number of those in the curse..." May said with a small, weak smile. Ash smiled back, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. "Thank you..."

"Of course," Ash replied. May blushed as Ash kissed her cheek, her face growing even warmer. Ash smiled at her, stroking her cheek gently. May's blush deepened, but she gave him a small, genuine smile in return. She watched Ash's eyes, searching for something unspoken. Ash looked back at her, a gentle curiosity in his gaze. Without a word, she leaned in and kissed his cheek, her lips barely grazing his skin. Ash blushed, surprised by the unexpected affection. May quickly pulled away, avoiding his eyes as she looked in any other direction. "M-May…?" Ash stammered, his voice a mix of surprise and warmth. May's face flushed even more, her cheeks a deep red as she looked away from him in an attempt to hide herself. Ash pulled her closer, sensing her shyness but wanting to comfort her. "May..." he said softly. She hesitated but finally looked back at him. Ash's smile was wide and genuine, radiating warmth.

"...What?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"That was a nice surprise," Ash said, his smile never fading.

"For everyone..." May murmured, her blush intensifying.

"Would you like to try again?" Ash chuckled softly.

"What?" May asked, her heart pounding. Ash leaned in and kissed her, his lips gentle and affectionate. May's cheeks burned as she timidly kissed him back. Ash held her close, deepening the kiss as they both surrendered to the moment.

"Mmm…" Ash murmured against her lips. May moaned softly, her response filled with both uncertainty and desire. Slowly, Ash pulled away, his eyes filled with affection. May shied away from him, her mind racing with conflicting emotions.

"My apologies...I shouldn't have done that…" she said quickly, getting up and turning away.

"It's alright..." Ash responded, his voice calm but tinged with concern.

"It was inappropriate for me to do that to my Master without asking, and I apologize..." May's voice wavered as she hid her eyes under her bangs.

"I liked it..." Ash admitted, hoping to reassure her.

"...That doesn't make it right...I have no business being that way...I cannot fall in love…" May argued, her voice breaking.

"You can if you want to..." Ash countered gently.

"No, I don't...!" May's voice rose in desperation.

"May that's not…" Ash said softly, trying to calm her. May began to cry softly, her emotions overwhelming her. "P-please don't cry... I'm sorry..." Ash pleaded, his heart aching for her. But May's tears continued to fall, her sobs growing louder. She covered her face with her hands, crying uncontrollably. Ash looked down, feeling helpless. He stayed close, wanting to comfort her but unsure how. May cried until she had no more tears left, her sobs subsiding into quiet sniffles. Ash watched as May cried, feeling a deep sense of guilt and helplessness. "I'm sorry..." he said softly.

"For what...?" May's voice was faint, the echo of her tears still present.

"For hurting you..."

"You didn't..." Ash fell silent, his eyes filled with concern. "I did..." May confessed, her voice barely a whisper.

"What..?"

"I can't allow myself to be so foolish..." May said, her tone filled with self-reproach.

"Foolish..?"

"There is no future for me... even thinking about something as ridiculous as a relationship is just... foolish..."

"It's not ridiculous..."

"Yes, it is, Master..."

"Shouldn't I be the judge of that?" Ash said with a small, reassuring smile.

"Even you cannot argue with the facts..." May said, her voice heavy with resignation.

"May..."

"Even if I weren't cursed to remain the same as everyone else grows old... I will always be a slave to those around me... A relationship is between two people of equal standing... something I can never be..."

"If I like you... and you like me... that's all that matters, May..."

"No, it's not..."

"May…" Ash sighed. "Do you think I care about 'the rules'? About controlling you?"

"It's not about caring about them... they are what they are... there is no future with me... and you need to realize that before you get hurt..."

"You're telling that to yourself. Not to me..." May looked back at him, anger flickering in her eyes.

"You honestly think that this would ever work? Being with a girl who will not grow old with you? A girl who cannot give you children? A girl who would disappear if you ever so much as lost the ring under the bed? A girl who is forced to obey your every command? Because I can tell you exactly what would really happen..."

"I do believe it would work May..." he answered. "I trust in you…in us…"

"Then you're just as much of a fool as I am... it would start out just as innocent as this. But as time wore on, it wouldn't last. Feelings of entrapment over being in a life with someone that never changes, followed by jealousy that my age doesn't change. Resentment begins to creep in after that when the family cannot grow. Then you find all those pleasures with someone else, all the while feeling guilty that you're going to be hurting me by doing them. Then finally the guilt disappears and you realize how big of a waste it was trying to be with someone who really... isn't even here... and then you begin your real life." May recounted the steps as if they were proven fact. Ash sighed deeply.

"How many times has that actually happened, May?" he asked.

"...Only one has ever had the fortitude to go through all the stages... any others that tried simply came to the conclusion at earlier stages..." she quietly answered. Ash brushed her tears away with his thumbs and cupped her cheeks gently, bringing their eyes back together.

"The only thing that matters to me is that you feel the same way... you say that you don't have a future... but your future is me... and mine is you... so long as I wear the ring... and then you'll be free... Sure, it's a little disappointing we couldn't have a family... but you... having you is all I need... I could never feel about anyone like I do you... and you're stuck with me... so to hell with your curse. All I need is you." He kissed her, his lips filled with conviction and love. May blushed deeply as Ash kissed her again. Slowly, she kissed him back, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close. May shivered at his touch but melted into his embrace, moaning softly as their kisses deepened. Ash gently requested entrance to her mouth, and she allowed him inside, their tongues dancing together. After a moment, May slowly pulled away, needing air. Ash looked into her eyes, his gaze filled with love and determination. "May..."

"I don't want to get hurt again... I can't take it..."

"I promise... you won't..."

"I guess... I have enough left in me to try and trust one more time..." Ash gently laid his head against her, feeling her warmth. May blushed, her heart beginning to hope again. Ash kissed her again, and she kissed him back, their connection growing stronger. He held her close, and she leaned into his embrace, feeling safe for the first time in a long while. As they slowly pulled away for air, both panting slightly, May blushed profusely, unsure of what to do next. Ash looked her in the eyes, his smile filled with affection and reassurance. "I... I don't know what to do..." May admitted sheepishly.

"Well... Is there anywhere else you want to see?" Ash asked gently. May nodded and Ash smiled at her.

"I'm not sure you'd like it though..."

"Hm?"

"It's boring to many..."

"What is it?"

"There's an art museum that's said to have the most beautiful paintings..." May said softly.

"That sounds nice." Ash gave her a small smile.

"It does...?" she wondered. Ash nodded. May smiled softly. Ash smiled back, his affection for her clear in his eyes. She pointed over to a hill where the museum sat.

"Shall we then?" Ash asked. May nodded and, without warning, Ash lifted her into his arms. May blushed in surprise, her cheeks turning a deep red.

"Ah…!" she gasped.

"If you're insistent on being so subservient, I just have to show affection while remaining in charge," Ash said with a playful smile. May blushed profusely, her heart fluttering. Ash smiled and carried her up to the museum. May blushed every time people glanced their way, but she couldn't help feeling a growing sense of happiness and hope.

"Comfortable?" Ash asked as he glanced over at May, still being carried in his arms. He noticed her fidgeting fingers and the subtle tremble in her voice as she responded.

"Y-Yes..." she said quietly, unable to lie to him even as embarrassed as she was. He smiled softly, leaning in to kiss her. The warmth of the kiss made her blush deeply, her cheeks turning a shade of pink that even the setting sun couldn't rival. They stopped at the grand doors of the museum, the imposing structure towering above them. May glanced up, her heart fluttering with both nerves and excitement. Ash carefully set her down, his hands lingering for just a moment longer, offering silent reassurance.

"Ready?" he asked. May took a deep breath, steadying herself, before nodding and slowly ascending the museum's marble steps. Ash followed close behind, his presence a comforting shadow. The moment May stepped inside, her eyes widened in awe. The grand hall was filled with an array of vibrant paintings, each telling its own story, each brushstroke a testament to the artist's skill. Ash smiled, enjoying her reaction.

"Wow…" she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Breath taken away again?" Ash teased gently, his eyes gleaming with amusement. May bit her lip, feeling a little self-conscious.

"...Must make me look quite silly..." she murmured, casting a shy glance at him.

"Even if it did, silly is cute." Ash shook his head, a warm smile playing on his lips. She blushed softly, the tension easing from her shoulders.

"It's just... the last time I was outside... a lot of these paint colors didn't exist yet..." Her voice trailed off as she continued to admire the artwork around her.

"Really?" Ash asked, intrigued. May nodded, her eyes still tracing the vibrant hues.

"And technique was nowhere near this level."

"I see," Ash replied, watching her with a fond smile. They wandered through the museum together, Ash exploring each exhibit while May lingered, savoring each piece of art. Her steps halted abruptly in front of one particular painting, her breath catching in her throat. Ash noticed and walked over, curious about what had captured her attention. May's eyes darted between the painting and the ring on Ash's finger, confusion and disbelief swirling in her mind.

"H-How...?" she stammered, looking at Ash, then back at the painting. The artwork seemed to echo the intricate design of her ring, a similarity too striking to be mere coincidence. Ash stood beside her, studying the painting.

"Weird..." he murmured, his brows furrowed in thought. May took a nervous step back, her gaze locked on the painting.

"That... shouldn't be possible..."

"It would be if it was made by a former Master, right?" Ash suggested, trying to rationalize the situation.

"But that... that was so long ago... and he wasn't... I-I mean, he'd surely be..." May shook her head, her voice trembling.

"Did your last Master lose the ring? Or did he die with it?" Ash cut in with his question.

"He lost it…" May whispered, her voice laced with old fears and trauma.

"Well, mystery solved. He probably painted it afterwards. Or told someone else and they did it," Ash said, shrugging as if it were that simple. But May's unease only grew.

"H-He couldn't have…These are all... new works..." she pointed out, gesturing toward the date and signature on the canvas. It was only a few months old. Ash glanced at the date and frowned.

"Weird." May backed further away from the painting, gripping her arms tightly. The cold reality of what she was seeing sent shivers down her spine. Ash noticed her distress and tried to steer her thoughts elsewhere.

"There's no way he's still alive," he said, attempting to reassure her with a nonchalant shrug.

"N-No but…but then how could…?" she tried to think, but her mind was just too turbulent right now to think anything clearly. Sensing her quickly spiraling into another panic attack, Ash took her hand in his own, gently guiding her away from the painting.

"Easy…" he whispered gently, squeezing her hand to show his support. "Nothing's going to happen to you…I promise…"

"I-I…I…" she stammered. Ash gave her hand one more squeeze, which seemed to give her just enough courage to take a deep breath and slowly let it back out, slowing her heart rate and staving off the panic attack for now. Seeing her overcome the fear made Ash smile with pride, feeling as though she just took another big step towards her recovery.

"Would you like something to eat after this? Just to take your mind off the ring?" he offered, hoping to help her stay calm.

"I-I don't know..." May replied, still shaken. Ash gently squeezed her hand in his. His touch was warm, grounding her in the present. She blushed, looking up at him with wide eyes.

"My treat?" Ash asked, his voice soft, full of concern.

"O-Ok..." May nodded, managing a small, nervous smile.

"Alright," Ash said, smiling back as they began to walk together. She followed his lead, their hands still entwined, the warmth of his grip a comfort amidst her swirling thoughts. As they left the museum, the world outside felt a little less overwhelming with Ash by her side. May's blush deepened as she glanced at him, and he smiled back, the corners of his eyes crinkling in that way she found so endearing. Despite the mysteries that still lingered, May couldn't help but smile a little. Ash's presence made everything feel just a bit more manageable, and for now, that was enough.

As they walked together, Ash glanced at May with a playful smile.

"Anything particular in mind?"

"My tastes are a few centuries out of date..." May hesitated, unsure of what from this century she'd even enjoy. Ash chuckled softly, his laughter a warm, comforting sound. She gave a shy laugh in return, feeling a bit more at ease.

"Well then," Ash said, glancing around, "let's find a restaurant."

"As you wish," May responded, her voice soft but sincere. Ash smiled, a warmth in his eyes as he pulled her into a gentle hug. May blushed, the contact sending a pleasant warmth through her. His smile deepened, and she couldn't help but return it, albeit with a small, shy grin. As he nuzzled her cheek affectionately, May giggled, a light, almost surprised sound that seemed to brighten the moment. Ash grinned at her reaction, clearly pleased, and together they made their way inside the nearby restaurant.

Soon, the two found a small family-style dining place, and decided to give it a try. Once inside, Ash approached the desk with May by his side.

"Table for two?" he asked politely.

"Of course. Right this way." The host nodded. Leading them inside, the host guided them to a cozy table near the window. Ash smiled as he pulled out a chair for May, who followed him to the table, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. "Here you are, sir," the host said, gesturing to the table before departing to fetch the menus.

"Thanks," Ash replied, taking a seat across from May. The host returned shortly with the menus, offering them with a polite smile.

"Can I get you something to drink?"

"Water is fine," Ash answered, then the host turned his attention to May.

"And for her?" May blinked, her eyes meeting Ash's with a hint of confusion. She wasn't used to making decisions, especially not for herself. Ash noticed her hesitation.

"Well?" he prompted gently.

"I-I thought you were going to…" May stammered, her uncertainty clear. Ash gave her a reassuring smile.

"I'm not gonna speak for you unless you're asleep," he said, a lighthearted sweatdrop forming as he realized her discomfort. May sweatdropped as well, feeling a bit silly.

"Then...water as well..."

"Alright," Ash said, nodding approvingly.

"As you wish." the host nodded before heading off to tell the waiter their orders. May blushed, the color rising in her cheeks as she realized how foreign and strange it all felt.

"It feels almost... foreign..." she admitted softly.

"Hm?" Ash wondered.

"Making decisions for myself…" she clarified.

"Oh. I can imagine," Ash replied, understanding the weight of her words.

"Any desires I've ever had have long since been dulled... half the time I don't even know what I want anymore..." May sighed, rubbing her arm anxiously. Ash nodded, listening attentively.

"Think you can adjust?" he wondered.

"I don't know..." she whispered, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Ash reached out and took her hand, his touch grounding her in the present.

"Well I'm going to do all I can to help you out." he looked up at him, her eyes searching his for reassurance. He met her gaze steadily, offering a silent promise of support.

"I'm sorry... it's just so ingrained into my head..." May's voice wavered as she spoke, the weight of her past pressing down on her.

"It's okay," Ash said gently, squeezing her hand.

"How do you figure...?" she asked, her voice barely audible.

"No one's holding it against you," Ash replied, his tone firm yet kind.

"You aren't at least..." she said, a hint of doubt in her voice. Ash shrugged, brushing off her concern. "I'm sorry…I'm sure it's frustrating…"

"It's ok May."

"Please Master…You have no need to spare my feelings…" she insisted.

"May, if I had something to say, I'd say it." he assured her. May rubbed her arm again, the old habit resurfacing in moments of anxiety.

"I never thought making decisions for myself would frighten me this way... back then, that was all I wanted..." May's voice grew distant, her mind drifting back to a time long past.

"Before you became a slave?" Ash asked softly. May nodded quietly, the pain of her past evident in her expression. "And then you had that ability taken away entirely..." Ash continued, his voice laced with understanding.

"Yes... I suppose that one decision was the only one I ever made for myself..." May admitted, her voice heavy with regret. Ash fell silent, sensing the depth of her sorrow. "And... it caused the destruction of everything I knew... everything I loved..." May's voice broke slightly, the weight of her memories overwhelming her. Ash's eyes softened, his heart aching for her. May sighed, a deep, weary sound. "Maybe he knew what he was doing when he cursed me..."

"Hey now…" Ash interrupted gently, using his fingers to lift the corners of her lips into a smile. His touch was light, playful, yet it held a comforting warmth. May blushed in embarrassment, the sudden gesture catching her off guard. Ash gave her a small smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners in that familiar way. Her blush deepened, her heart fluttering in response. "Hey, I'm not on the menu. And I'm not going to tell you what to eat either," Ash teased, his voice lightening the mood.

"I-I'm sorry...?" May stammered, still flustered.

"Quit staring at me and decide what you want to eat." Ash chuckled softly, shaking his head.

"O-Oh... my apologies, Master..." May mumbled, quickly turning her attention to the menu in front of her, her cheeks still flushed. Ash gave a light laugh as he picked up his own menu, the tension in the air easing as they settled into a comfortable rhythm. The shadows of the past still lingered, but in that moment, they were just two people sharing a meal, the warmth of the present pushing the darkness away. May scanned the menu, her eyes widening as she read through the descriptions. "Whoa..." she murmured, her voice filled with a mix of surprise and apprehension. Ash noticed her hesitation and glanced over.

"Hm?"

"A lot of these sound very complex..." May admitted, her brows furrowing slightly as she tried to make sense of the unfamiliar dishes. "It's all very…"

"Intimidating?" Ash asked, tilting his head slightly.

"Somewhat, yes..." May replied, her voice soft as she continued to look through the options, feeling a bit overwhelmed.

"I see," Ash said, his tone understanding as he waited patiently for her to decide. After a few moments of contemplation, May's eyes landed on an intriguing name.

"What goes into making this 'Cinnamon Brewet'?" she asked, her curiosity piqued. Ash thought for a moment, recalling the ingredients.

"Hm... Roast beef, almonds, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, red wine, and beef stock." he answered. May's eyes widened again.

"Whoa..." the whispered escaping her lips. The combination sounded both exotic and daunting. Ash scratched his head, trying to gauge her reaction. "I suppose I can give it a try," May finally decided, her voice tinged with a mix of bravery and uncertainty.

"Alright then." Ash smiled warmly, clearly pleased with her choice. May blushed softly, feeling a small flutter of pride at having made the decision.

"Thank you..." she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded, his smile never fading. She rubbed her arm again, the gesture becoming a familiar comfort in moments of uncertainty. Ash's eyes softened as he watched her, his affection clear.

"You're cute," he said, his voice gentle but sincere. May looked up at him, her blush deepening.

"I...am...?"

"Of course you are," Ash replied, his smile widening as he saw the surprise in her eyes. May stammered, her cheeks now a deep shade of pink.

"I...er..." Ash chuckled softly, his smile filled with warmth. "Thank you, Master..." she finally managed to say, her voice small and shy.

"Heh." Ash grinned at her, clearly amused by her flustered reaction. May's blush deepened, but she couldn't help but smile back, the warmth of his words wrapping around her like a gentle embrace.

Soon after, May lifted her glass of water, taking a small sip to wash down the last bite of her meal. The flavors lingered on her palate, rich and satisfying, even in spite of her persistant lack of appetite. She set the glass down with a contented sigh. Ash watched her, his eyes warm with curiosity.

"How was it?"

"It was good," May replied, her voice soft but sincere. Ash smiled, pleased with her response. She returned his smile with a small one of her own, the warmth of the moment enveloping them. Leaning in, Ash pecked her on the cheek, a brief but affectionate gesture that made May blush harder. He smiled at her reaction, finding it endearing, and she managed to smile a little in return.

"Shall we?" Ash asked, his voice gentle.

"If you would like," May replied, her tone as soft as ever. Ash reached out, taking her hand in his, and she blushed once more as they left the restaurant. The warmth of his hand in hers was comforting, grounding her amidst the swirl of new experiences and past trauma.

"Cover your list for today?" Ash asked as they walked.

"Yes, Master." May nodded, feeling a sense of accomplishment despite the challenges she had faced. Ash smiled at her, a look of quiet pride in his eyes. She blushed under his gaze, the warmth in her chest growing.

"I wish we were back home," he announced. Without a word, May snapped her fingers, and in an instant, they were back in the familiar comfort of their oasis home. Ash stretched, feeling the tension ease from his body, while May folded her hands neatly in front of her. "Thank you," Ash said, his voice filled with gratitude.

"You're welcome..." May replied softly, her eyes downcast, but there was a subtle contentment in her expression.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

"I hope you enjoyed yourself," Ash said, genuinely hoping the day had been a positive experience for her. May nodded.

"Yes, Master," she answered, her voice steady. Ash smiled at her, his heart warming at the sight of her slight but genuine smile. Turning his attention to Pikachu, he reached out to pet him. Pikachu responded with a soft coo, leaning into Ash's touch. Ash smiled at the little Pokémon, feeling a deep sense of connection.

"I'm glad you're with us, buddy," he said, his voice tinged with affection. Pikachu smiled back and nuzzled Ash, the bond between them evident. Ash returned the gesture with a tired smile, though the weariness wasn't from physical exertion.

"You look exhausted," Pikachu observed, tilting his head in concern.

"Up here maybe," Ash said, pointing to his head. His mind had been racing with thoughts and worries, the weight of recent events pressing down on him. Pikachu tilted his head further, trying to understand. "Just a lot's been happening lately..." Ash explained, his voice trailing off.

"I see," Pikachu replied, his voice soft with understanding.

"Need anything?" Ash asked, always looking out for his loyal companion.

"I'm good," Pikachu reassured him with a smile. Ash nodded, glancing between Pikachu and May. There was something in his gaze, a quiet contemplation. May noticed and tilted her head curiously, but Ash only gave her a small smile in return. Her cheeks warmed, a blush spreading across her face as she looked away.

"I think I'm going to turn in for the night," he informed her.

"Oh…ok Master." May nodded.

"Goodnight May."

"Goodnight Master…" With that said, Ash began walking upstairs. May watched him go, a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty in her eyes. As he headed to his room, she hesitated for a moment before resigning herself to her own. Ash sat down on the edge of his bed, the weight of the day finally settling in. Meanwhile, May lay in her own bed, the silence of the room enveloping her. She sighed softly, her thoughts too scattered to settle on anything specific. Ash turned his head toward May's room, a quiet concern in his eyes. He wondered if she was alright, if the day had been too overwhelming. May, in turn, closed her eyes, trying to empty her mind, seeking a brief respite from the emotions swirling within her.

Ash sat quietly in his room, his mind a swirl of thoughts that seemed to spiral endlessly. Should he...? The question hung in the air over his head, thick and heavy, as he glanced over at Pikachu, who perched nearby, ears twitching in anticipation.

"Hey bud…?" he finally spoke aloud.

"What's wrong?" Pikachu asked, curiosity lacing his voice. "What's on your mind?" Ash hesitated, biting his lip as he struggled to find the right words.

"Should I...ask about home…?" he finally murmured, his gaze dropping to the floor. Pikachu tilted his head, understanding dawning on him.

"Ask her, you mean?" Ash nodded, the weight of the decision pressing down on him. "I mean...I suppose it's your call," Pikachu said, a hint of uncertainty creeping into his tone. "Not like she won't do it..."

"I know..." Ash replied softly, the unspoken tension between them growing with every passing second. Pikachu studied him for a moment, sensing the conflict in his friend's heart.

"Why the sudden interest?" he wondered.

"I just..." Ash's voice trailed off, leaving the sentence unfinished as he sighed deeply, his thoughts drifting to memories of home.

"Ash..." Pikachu looked at him with concern, his eyes reflecting the worry he felt. Ash shook his head, a heavy sigh escaping his lips.

"I don't know..." he admitted, the uncertainty gnawing at him. In a display of affection, Pikachu hopped into Ash's lap, nuzzling close as if to offer comfort. Ash wrapped his arms around his small friend, finding solace in the warmth of the embrace. "I just want to see Mom and Luna..." Ash's voice was barely above a whisper, the longing evident in every syllable.

"Oh…" Pikachu's ears drooped slightly as he hugged Ash tighter, sharing in the quiet ache that filled the room. They sat like that for a moment, wrapped in a shared sense of longing and sadness. "I'm sorry..." Pikachu whispered, feeling the weight of Ash's emotions.

"I'm sorry too..." Ash replied, his voice thick with emotion. "You didn't have to come with me..." Pikachu pulled back slightly, meeting Ash's gaze with a determined look.

"Like I'd stay there without you," he said firmly, his words a quiet vow. A small, grateful smile tugged at the corners of Ash's lips, and Pikachu mirrored it with one of his own. They were a team—always had been, always would be.

"Thanks bud…" As the moment passed, Ash's thoughts drifted back to the source of his unease. His eyes wandered toward May's room, the unspoken question still lingering in the air. Pikachu, sensing his friend's uncertainty, nuzzled him once more, offering silent support. Ash's hand grazed the ring he wore, the small metal band holding so much more meaning than its appearance suggested. "May..." he whispered, the name barely audible. In the other room, May stirred. His call for her and the rubbing of her ring pulled her from the depths of sleep. Sitting up abruptly, she followed the rules of her curse. Without hesitation, she swung her legs over the side of the bed and padded softly towards his room. Ash's heart felt heavy as he stared at the door. He didn't like forcing her to do anything just because of the ring, but he really needed to see someone else right now. It wasn't long before May appeared, her soft footsteps barely audible as she approached. She paused at the entrance to his room, her gaze meeting his.

"You called, Master?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity and a touch of concern. Ash nodded silently, his eyes never leaving hers. "What do you wish?" she inquired, her tone respectful, yet tinged with an underlying worry. Ash didn't respond with words. Instead, he motioned for her to come closer. There was something different in his demeanor tonight, a sadness she couldn't quite place. Hesitating for only a moment, May took a tentative step forward, then another, until she stood just inches from his bed. As she drew near, Ash gently pulled her into an embrace, his arms wrapping around her with a tenderness that caught her off guard.

"I just…need you here right now…" he whispered. May's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, surprise evident in her expression. She still wasn't used to such close, intimate contact, and the unexpected gesture left her feeling both flustered and confused. Ash rested his head against her shoulder, and she could feel the tension in his body, the sadness radiating from him in waves. As if drawn by an invisible force, Ash gently guided her onto the bed beside him, his movements slow and deliberate. He let out a sad sigh as they settled together, the weight of his emotions pressing down on him. May's face glowed bright red, her heart racing as she tried to make sense of what was happening. Then, without warning, Ash began to cry. Silent tears streamed down his cheeks, soaking into her shoulder as he held her close.

"M...Master...?" she whispered, her voice trembling with a mix of concern and uncertainty. Ash didn't answer, his grief too overwhelming to put into words. He simply cried, his body shaking with the force of his silent sobs. May felt a surge of sympathy for him, her own worries momentarily forgotten as she focused on the boy in her arms. Though her face still burned with a vibrant blush, she remained still, allowing him to cling to her as he needed. After a long moment, Ash sniffled, his breath hitching as he tried to regain control. He tightened his grip on her, as if afraid she might disappear if he let go.

"I guess I shouldn't be complaining," he muttered, his voice thick with emotion. "You haven't seen your family in millennia..." May hesitated before answering, the weight of his words settling over her like a heavy blanket.

"...No...no, I haven't," she admitted softly. Ash sighed, the sound filled with a deep, aching sadness.

"So I shouldn't be complaining about my mom..." May shook her head gently, her hand resting lightly on his back.

"You have a right to be upset if that's what you feel," she said, her voice soothing. Ash pulled back slightly, his eyes red and puffy from crying. He looked at her with a mix of sorrow and resignation.

"I was a prince where I come from... One of the noble families couldn't stand me, and their son set me up to look like I stole from another house with treasonous intent... and for that, I was banished..." he explained.

"Oh..." May's heart ached for him, the pain in his voice striking a chord deep within her. She could see the hurt in his eyes, the betrayal that had scarred him so deeply. She had been going through so much of her own problems she had forgotten that he had plenty of his own to deal with as well. Yet even so, he was putting all his attention and effort on her. "I'm sorry, Master..." she whispered, her words sincere.

"It isn't your fault," Ash replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

"No, but..." May started, but Ash cut her off.

"I miss my home and my old friends... but even if I wished for my innocence to be proven... it wouldn't be the same..." His voice cracked slightly as he spoke, the weight of his past pressing down on him.

"I understand..." May said quietly, her heart aching for the pain he carried. A long silence stretched between them, filled only by the sound of their breathing. Finally, Ash spoke again, his voice soft and filled with gratitude.

"I'm glad I have you..." May's cheeks flushed again, a warm blush spreading across her face. Before she could respond, Ash leaned in and kissed her gently, the gesture filled with all the affection and need he couldn't put into words. May gasped softly in surprise but quickly found herself returning the kiss, her heart racing as their lips met. She felt a shiver run down her spine as Ash's hand stroked her side, his touch sending a thrill through her body. Ash deepened the kiss, his emotions pouring into the tender act. A soft moan escaped him, his desire and affection blending together. May responded in kind, her own moan slipping from her lips as they lost themselves in the moment, two souls finding comfort in each other amidst the quiet despair that filled the room. Ash's fingers traced delicate lines along May's hips, the touch gentle yet electric. Feeling this suddenly, she whimpered softly, the sound escaping her before she could stop it. Hearing it, Ash pulled away, concern flashing in his eyes.

"I-I'm sorry…" May stammered, her voice trembling.

"Huh…?" Ash blinked, slightly taken aback.

"I didn't mean to do that…" she whispered, lowering her gaze in embarrassment.

"May…" Ash began, but she interrupted him, her voice filled with regret.

"I'm sorry…" Ash paused, searching her eyes. There was a vulnerability in her expression that tugged at his heart.

"…Is there anything I might be able to do to…to help you know that I will never force you or hurt you…?" he started, his voice soft, almost hesitant. May looked up at him, uncertainty swirling in her eyes.

"...I don't know…" she admitted. "So many have used my body for…companionship…that even the thought of it paralyzes me with fear…" Ash took a deep breath, trying to find the right words.

"Do you think…if you experienced it in a good way it could…help you…?" he wondered. May's heart skipped a beat. She wanted to believe in the possibility, but doubt lingered.

"…I wish I could say yes…but I honestly don't know…" Ash nodded slowly, considering her words.

"If you say the word…we could try…" he offered.

"Try how…?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Well…" Ash hesitated, then continued with a small, hopeful smile. "Subverting your expectations." May's face flushed a deep crimson, the suggestion sending her heart racing.

"W-Well I-" Before she could respond, Ash leaned in and kissed her again, the gesture tender yet filled with an underlying intensity. May responded, her lips meeting his with growing confidence. Ash's hand found her waist, stroking her gently, eliciting a shiver from her as the warmth of his touch spread through her body. His tongue gently poked at her lips, urging her to open them. Tentatively, she complied, allowing him to explore further. Their tongues met, dancing together in a rhythm that felt both new and natural. A soft moan escaped May's lips, followed by a matching sound from Ash as their shared desire deepened. They were lost in each other, the world around them fading into the background. Ash playfully battled her tongue, but when she surrendered, he took the opportunity to explore her mouth more thoroughly, continuing to stroke her exposed body with a gentle, tender touch. May shuddered under his ministrations, her senses overwhelmed by the intensity of their connection. In a bold move, Ash pushed his tongue deeper into her throat, eliciting a moan from May that sent shivers down his spine. They stayed like that for a moment, their breaths mingling, before Ash slowly pulled away, both of them gasping softly for air. May's face was flushed, her breathing ragged as she became acutely aware of where Ash's hands rested on her body. Ash, too, was catching his breath, but a small smile played on his lips as he looked at her.

"You're a great kisser…" he murmured, his voice filled with admiration.

"Th-Thank you…" May's blush deepened, her heart fluttering at his words. Ash gently nuzzled her, his affection clear in the simple gesture. May's heart swelled, her emotions swirling in a confusing but not unpleasant mix.

"…Thank you…" Ash whispered, his voice soft and sincere. May blinked, surprised.

"For what…?"

"For listening and being kind…" Ash replied, his tone filled with gratitude. "And for trusting me…" May felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words.

"I just…" she was about to downplay her actions once again, but something inside her reminded her of his instance on not putting herself down, so she changed her reply partway through. "You're welcome…" Ash wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. May blushed, but she didn't pull away, instead finding comfort in his embrace. Ash took a deep breath, as if gathering his thoughts. May watched him closely, sensing he was about to say something important.

"Will you stay with me for the evening…?" he asked, his voice tinged with vulnerability.

"If that's what you'd like…" she answered softly, her heart skipping a beat at the request.

"Thanks…" Ash whispered, his voice barely audible. He leaned in and placed a gentle peck on her lips, a gesture filled with affection. May blushed, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash's hand moved to her cheek, stroking it softly, the touch making her face glow even redder. She could hardly believe how close they were, how natural it felt to be in his arms.

"M-Master…" Ash leaned in and kissed her again, a tender, loving kiss that spoke volumes. May's initial surprise quickly melted into a warm, contented feeling as she kissed him back, their connection deepening with each passing moment. Ash's grip on May's hips tightened slightly, his eyes searching hers with an intensity that sent her heart racing. She blushed a bright, deep red under his gaze, her pulse quickening as the room seemed to close in around them. Finally, he pulled away and his eyes once again found her's.

"May…" Ash stared at her, wordlessly, his emotions clear in the way his eyes lingered on her face.

"M-Master…?" May stammered, her voice trembling as she struggled to find the right words.

"Yeah…?" Ash's voice was gentle, encouraging her to speak her mind.

"I-I don't know if I can…" she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash's gaze softened, and he nodded understandingly.

"That's okay."

"But it's not…" May protested, her voice tinged with guilt and frustration. "You want to and…and I…"

"Breathe…" Ash interrupted gently, his calm tone helping to steady her.

"Yes Master…" May took in a deep, though shaky breath, trying to calm the whirlwind of emotions swirling within her.

"Now please…just trust me one more time…it's not going to go how you think. I promise," Ash reassured her, his voice filled with sincerity. May looked up at him, her heart aching with the desire to believe his words.

"…I truly want to believe you…" Ash leaned in and kissed her softly, his lips warm and reassuring against hers. May hesitated for a moment, then kissed him back, her uncertainty giving way to a tentative hope. His hand caressed her skin, sending shivers down her spine. Ash moaned softly into her mouth, the sound filled with desire and affection, and May found herself returning the gesture with a soft moan of her own. As the kiss deepened, Ash gently laid on top of her, their bodies pressing close together. May tensed slightly, her nerves getting the better of her, but Ash sensed her hesitation. He pulled her in close, holding her with a tenderness that eased her fears, even as the intensity of the moment grew. He kicked off his boots, the sound a quiet thud against the floor, and began to pull on her skirt, his fingers trembling slightly with the weight of the moment. But May winced, the discomfort clear in her expression, though she kept her lips on his, not wanting to disappoint him. Ash immediately broke the kiss, concern flooding his features as he looked down at her.

"M-May…?" he asked, his voice filled with worry. May whimpered softly, fear flickering in her eyes as she struggled to hold back tears. "May…are you okay…?" Ash asked, his voice gentle but insistent.

"…I'm scared…" she whispered as a soft sniffle escaped her. Ash's heart ached at her words. He leaned in and placed a soothing kiss on her cheek, his lips warm and comforting.

"I promise, May…I will never hurt you…"

"But you will…" May whispered, her voice trembling with fear and resignation. "This action will always hurt me…" Ash cupped her cheeks, holding her face gently in his hands.

"I won't," he said firmly, his voice filled with conviction.

"You don't understand, Master…" May's voice was pained, her eyes filled with a sadness that seemed to stretch across centuries.

"May…?" Ash's voice was soft, urging her to continue.

"My body cannot change since my enslavement…and I was a virgin when it happened…so no matter how many times I do this…" May's voice broke slightly, the pain of her past bleeding into her words. Ash froze, the weight of her confession settling over him like a heavy cloud. "It will always hurt…" May finished, her voice barely audible. Ash's heart twisted with empathy, his earlier desires overshadowed by a deep need to protect and comfort her.

"…Then we'll stop…" he said, his voice gentle but firm. May's eyes widened slightly, her heart conflicted.

"That's not…what you want…"

"What I want is to give you an experience you will love…" Ash replied softly, his voice filled with sincerity and determination. May's eyes softened, a blush spreading across her cheeks as she looked at him with a mixture of gratitude and hope.

"…For the first time in my life…I think you're someone that actually can…Master…" Ash looked at her in surprise, her words catching him off guard. He could see the trust she was placing in him, the way her fears mingled with the hope that maybe, just maybe, this time could be different.

"May…"

"I am scared, Master…and it's going to hurt, Master…but I believe your intentions…and your actions…" May's voice trembled slightly, but there was a strength in her words that made Ash's heart swell with determination. Ash nodded, understanding the depth of what she was saying.

"…May…"

"So…please don't stop, Master…if it is your wish to help me overcome this fear…then please don't stop…" May's voice was quiet, but the plea in her words was unmistakable. Ash looked into her eyes, seeing the vulnerability and the trust she was offering him. He leaned in and kissed her again, a promise in the way his lips met hers. As they kissed, he continued to help her disrobe, his movements slow and careful, each action filled with the intention of making her feel safe and cherished.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Soon, the room was filled with the soft sounds of their heavy breathing, both of them panting as they lay close to each other. Ash gazed into May's eyes, his own filled with a mix of emotions—affection, relief, and something deeper that he could finally put a name to.

"I love you…" Ash whispered, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. May's cheeks flushed softly at his words, her heart fluttering with a confusing mix of emotions. She looked back at him, her eyes searching his as she tried to process what she was feeling.

"…I wish I knew if I felt the same…" May admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty. It wasn't that she didn't care for him—she did, more than she had ever cared for anyone. But love was a complex emotion, and she wasn't sure if she could recognize it after all she had been through. Ash's hand gently cupped her cheek, his touch warm and reassuring. May blushed under his gaze, her heart beating faster as she realized how much he meant to her.

"…How was it?" Ash asked quietly, his voice filled with concern and hope. May hesitated for a moment, then gave a small, genuine smile.

"Very…very good… I had forgotten it could…feel like that…" A small smile tugged at Ash's lips, relief washing over him. He had wanted nothing more than to give her a moment of happiness, something she could hold onto in the midst of her fears and doubts. May returned his smile with a tiny one of her own, a flicker of hope and contentment in her eyes. She felt a warmth in her chest, something that felt like the beginning of healing.

"Tired?" Ash asked gently, noticing the way her eyes seemed to grow heavier with each passing moment.

"I think so…" May replied softly, her voice drowsy. Ash leaned in and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, his lips lingering for a moment as if to reassure her.

"Then we'll stop for the night," he said, his voice soothing. May blushed again, a warmth spreading through her at the tenderness of his gesture. She allowed her eyes to drift shut, the comfort of his presence lulling her into a peaceful state. Ash lay beside her, close enough to feel her warmth but not so close as to crowd her. He watched as her breathing evened out, her face relaxing into an expression of calm. It wasn't long before her eyes fluttered closed completely, and she slipped into a restful sleep. As Ash lay there, listening to the soft rhythm of her breathing, he felt a sense of peace settle over him as well. He knew that there were still challenges ahead, that their journey was far from over. But for now, in this quiet moment, everything felt right. He closed his eyes, allowing himself to drift into sleep beside her, his heart filled with a quiet joy he hadn't felt in a long time.

The morning light filtered softly through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. May lay nestled in the warmth of the blankets, her body relaxed in the peaceful stillness of early morning. Slowly, her eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the soft light. Beside her, Ash remained fast asleep, his breathing slow and even. May turned her head slightly to look at him, a blush creeping up her cheeks as she watched him sleep. He looked so serene, so at peace, and something about that made her heart flutter. She smiled to herself, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the blankets. As if sensing her gaze, Ash's eyes began to open, his expression softening as he saw her. May's blush deepened, but she couldn't stop the smile that tugged at her lips.

"Hi," Ash murmured, his voice thick with sleep.

"Hello," May whispered back, her voice barely audible. A smile spread across Ash's face, and without a word, he reached out to hug her. May's blush intensified, but she leaned into his embrace, feeling safe and content in his arms.

"How did you sleep?" he asked, his voice warm and tender.

"Good," May replied softly, her heart skipping a beat as she met his gaze. Ash smiled at her, then gently rested a hand on her cheek, making her blush even more. The tenderness in his eyes made her feel special, cherished in a way she hadn't experienced before.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself," Ash said, his tone sincere.

"I did, Master," May responded, her voice tinged with affection. Ash sat up, and May watched him, her heart fluttering at the sight of him so close. There was something about the way he moved, the way he looked at her, that made her feel both nervous and excited.

"Do you plan on staying in bed?" Ash asked with a playful smile.

"I...I don't know…" May admitted, her voice wavering. "I'm not used to making my own decisions…" Ash leaned closer, laying his head beside hers. The proximity made her heart race, and when he pecked her on the cheek, she couldn't help but smile a little. "Now what?" May asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.

"Well…I've heard breakfast in bed can be a nice treat," Ash suggested, his smile widening.

"Oh?" May replied, curiosity piqued.

"Mhm," Ash hummed, wrapping his arms around her. The simple gesture made May blush, but she smiled in return, feeling more at ease.

"I guess I wouldn't know," May said softly. Ash placed a hand on her cheek, his touch gentle.

"May, I think that counts as my request," he said, his tone teasing yet affectionate.

"Sorry…just trying to find that line…" May muttered, a nervous smile forming as she snapped her fingers and made a full breakfast platter appear before him.

"Ooh," Ash responded, amused by her gesture. May smiled a little, feeling a bit more confident. Ash's approval was written all over his face, and that made her feel good, like she was doing something right.

"Everything smells great," Ash commented as the aroma of breakfast filled the room.

"I'm glad you approve," May said, her smile softening. Ash began to eat, and May watched him, her heart swelling with pride as he enjoyed the meal.

"Mmm!" he exclaimed, clearly pleased. "It's great!" Ash said, nudging her playfully.

"I'm glad," May replied, her blush returning. Ash paused, looking at her with a mischievous grin.

"I asked if we could get breakfast," he reminded her.

"Oh…" May blushed, realizing her oversight.

"Go ahead," Ash encouraged with a smile. May hesitated for a moment, then took a little bit of the food for herself. Ash smiled at her, and she couldn't help but smile back, feeling a little more at ease. They ate together in comfortable silence, the bond between them growing stronger with each passing moment. When they finished, Ash looked at her with gratitude in his eyes.

"Thank you," he said sincerely.

"Of course…" May replied, her voice soft and shy. Ash smiled warmly at her, and May felt her cheeks heat up again, but this time, the blush was accompanied by a sense of contentment she hadn't felt before. With the meal completed, Ash gently slid out of bed, the soft sheets rustling as he moved. May watched him, her eyes following his every movement. There was a quiet grace in the way he dressed, his actions deliberate and calm. As he pulled his shirt over his head, May's gaze drifted around the room, searching for her own clothes. Once they both were dressed, Ash turned to her with a smile.

"Alright," he said simply. May looked over at him, returning his smile with a shy one of her own. Without thinking, she stood and moved toward him, wrapping her arms around him in a gentle hug. Ash returned the embrace, then pulled back slightly, an amused grin on his face. "Hey, you hugged me," he teased. May blushed furiously, her heart racing.

"I-I'm sorry…" she stammered, suddenly self-conscious. Ash chuckled softly.

"Whatever for?" he asked, his tone gentle.

"Sorry…apologizing is a force of habit," May admitted, her cheeks still flushed. Ash's smile softened as he looked at her.

"Nothing wrong with that," he said, reassuring her. May blushed again, the warmth of his gaze making her feel both nervous and safe. She glanced up at him, unsure of what to say next.

"Now then," Ash began, drawing her attention back to him. May looked at him expectantly, her heart fluttering in her chest. "We've gotta figure out the plan for the day," Ash said, his tone light.

"Oh," May replied softly, nodding. She wasn't used to making plans herself, especially not with someone like him. Ash let out a small sigh, though his smile remained.

"I suppose being banished has one plus," he remarked, a hint of irony in his voice. "I don't have to stress about royal paperwork."

"And that's… good?" May asked hesitantly, unsure of how to respond. Ash chuckled.

"You would not believe how boring meetings and paperwork are," he said with a slight grimace. May looked at him thoughtfully.

"Most would gladly seize such power no matter the drawbacks…" she murmured.

"That's because they don't know what they're walking into," Ash replied, his voice carrying a weight of experience. May studied him, noticing the way his expression shifted slightly.

"You still miss it though…" she observed quietly. Ash reached out, gently stroking her chin.

"You're way better than any castle," he said with a warm smile. May blushed deeply, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash's words, so genuine and tender, left her feeling both flustered and touched. He moved closer, slipping back onto the bed along with her. The proximity made her blush even more, and she looked away, unsure of how to handle the intensity of her feelings. "Maybe we should just take it easy today," Ash suggested, his voice soft as May's blush deepened.

"I-If that's what you wish…" she replied, her voice trembling slightly. Ash smiled at her, his hand slowly moving to stroke her side. The touch sent a shiver down her spine, and she bit her lip, trying to suppress the reaction. His fingers moved with deliberate slowness, trailing down her spine, sending shudders through her body. Before she could fully process the sensation, he leaned in and kissed her, his lips capturing hers in a slow, deliberate kiss. May responded instinctively, kissing him back softly. But Ash wasn't content with just that. His kiss deepened, his tongue slipping past her lips to explore her mouth. May moaned loudly, the sound echoing in the quiet room. The sensation was overwhelming, his tongue playing with hers while his fingers traced patterns on her skin. Every touch, every movement, sent waves of pleasure coursing through her. When Ash finally pulled away, May was left breathless, her cheeks flushed with heat. She looked up at him, her eyes wide and dazed. Ash smiled at her, his expression tender.

"Enjoy it," he whispered. Without another word, he reached over and grabbed a book from the bedside table and he began to read to himself. May watched him for a moment, then looked around the room, trying to calm her racing heart. But she couldn't focus on anything other than Ash, especially when his hand moved again, tracing her hips with a feather-light touch. She blushed hard, turning her gaze back to him. Ash noticed and smiled at her, his eyes filled with warmth. "Just relax," he murmured, his fingers continuing their gentle exploration.

"I-I…" May tried to respond, but the words caught in her throat as his touch sent another shiver through her body. Ash didn't press her for an answer. Instead, he continued to read, his fingers moving in slow, deliberate circles along her skin. The sensation was both soothing and electrifying, leaving May caught between wanting more and not knowing how to handle it. His fingers traced her belly, drawing a soft moan from her lips. She blushed even more, embarrassed by her own reaction, but Ash didn't seem to mind. He just kept reading, his touch never faltering, creating a rhythm that lulled her into a state of calm, even as her body continued to react to his every move. Trying to take his advice to heart, she layed her head against his shoulder and closed her eyes, keeping a calm emotion as best she could.

Soon after, May found herself standing by the window, her gaze lost in the scenery outside. The world beyond seemed so vast, so full of possibilities, yet she felt uncertain, adrift in a sea of newfound freedom. Ash approached her quietly, noticing the pensive look on her face.

"Want to go somewhere?" he asked gently.

"It's not that Master…" May shook her head, her voice soft as she replied, "Just...thinking…"

"Yeah?" Ash prompted, his curiosity piqued.

"Yeah…" May confirmed, her thoughts still distant. Ash smiled and leaned closer, playfully tapping her nose. The unexpected gesture made her blush, a small but genuine smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

"What about?" Ash asked, his tone inviting her to share her thoughts. May hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts before speaking.

"...About what to do with myself..." she finally admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Ash tilted his head, his expression thoughtful as he listened. "I'm so used to waiting on my Master hand and foot," May continued, her voice growing softer. "Aside from meal and travel, you don't...require much, it seems..."

"I...see…" Ash responded, his brow furrowing slightly as he considered her words. May turned to look at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and confusion.

"I do appreciate not needing to use my powers all day, every day, for once…but I'm left not really knowing what to do…"

"Oh…Sorry…" Ash's expression softened, a touch of regret in his eyes. He hadn't considered just how little freedom she'd had all these centuries of service. Even if she liked the ease he had given her, he never thought about what she would replace it with, or how much that could scare her.

"Please don't," May said quickly, shaking her head. "You've been the kindest Master I've ever had…and this is a much better problem than I've ever faced before." Ash scratched his head, clearly trying to find the right words to comfort her. May's gaze drifted back to the window, her mind wrestling with the unfamiliar concept of free time. "Having free time in this world is something I've never had," she murmured. "So I need help learning just what I enjoy again…" Ash offered her a sad smile, understanding the weight of her words.

"The only way to find out is to try new things," he suggested.

"How?" May asked, her voice filled with uncertainty. "I imagine the list of activities available now is wildly different from the one I remember." Ash stepped closer, gently holding her cheek. The touch made her blush, a warmth spreading through her at the simple gesture.

"You won't find out by doing nothing," he said softly. May nodded, though her expression remained hesitant.

"I-I guess that's true…" Ash gave her a small, encouraging smile. "It's just hard when I cannot really do anything without permission," May admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

"May…" Ash began, his tone gentle but firm.

"I'm still bound by the rules…" she continued, her shoulders slumping slightly. Without a word, Ash pulled her into a hug, holding her close. May hesitated for a moment before slowly returning the embrace, her arms wrapping around him in a gesture that felt both comforting and foreign. Ash remained silent, simply holding her. He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, his affection clear in the gesture. "I must sound like such a whiner…" May muttered, her voice filled with self-doubt.

"Not at all," Ash assured her, pulling back just enough to look into her eyes. May looked up at him, her blush deepening as she met his gaze. Ash's smile was warm and reassuring, making her feel safe in a way she hadn't experienced in a long time. "I love you…" Ash confessed, his voice tender. May's blush deepened even further, her heart skipping a beat at his words.

"...I think I love you too…" she whispered, her voice trembling with uncertainty and emotion. Ash's smile widened, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. He sat up slowly, and May watched him, her emotions swirling inside her.

"Well if you want to find something to do in your free time, we should start looking into hobbies then," Ash suggested, his tone light but sincere. May gave a small nod, still processing the weight of their exchange.

"Where do we begin?" she asked, her voice soft. Ash shrugged, a playful grin spreading across his face.

"Any place is as good as any other," he replied with a nervous chuckle. May couldn't help but smile at his response, a small laugh escaping her lips.

"Did you have one in mind?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

"I guess we'll have to look into it," Ash said, his tone thoughtful. May nodded again, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Ash got out of bed and reached out to her. "C'mon," he said with a smile. May blushed softly, her heart fluttering as he took her hand. The simple gesture made her blush, but she squeezed his hand gently, finding comfort in his presence.

"Where are we going…?"

"We should look into town and see if anything catches your eye," Ash suggested.

"As you wish…" May nodded, her smile growing a little more confident. Ash smiled back at her, his eyes filled with warmth as they headed out together, ready to explore the world and discover what it had to offer her.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May gazed around the little town, a familiar sense of nostalgia washing over her as she took in the sights of where she first met Ash. The quaint buildings and well-trodden paths felt like old friends welcoming her back. Ash stood beside her, noticing her quiet contemplation.

"You did show interest in art, didn't you?" he asked gently. May nodded, still lost in thought. "Maybe you could take up painting," Ash suggested with a warm smile. May considered the idea, a small smile forming on her lips.

"I can try at least." Ash's smile widened, pleased to see her showing some enthusiasm.

"You've certainly seen enough of the area to paint it well," he remarked. A soft chuckle escaped May's lips. Ash's heart lifted at the sound. "Hey, you're laughing," he said, smiling even brighter. May shrugged slightly, a playful glint in her eyes.

"I've heard joking about a situation can make it easier..." Without thinking, Ash reached out and cupped her cheeks, his touch gentle and reassuring. May felt her face heat up as a blush spread across her cheeks.

"I'm liking this optimism, May," Ash said, his voice full of affection. May looked down, embarrassed but pleased.

"I-I don't know if I'd call it optimism..." she murmured.

"It's a start," Ash replied with a grin. May gave a nervous smile, feeling a little more at ease.

"It's worth a shot, isn't it?"

"Of course," Ash assured her. They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, both of them smiling softly. Ash glanced around, an idea forming in his mind. "Want to find a shop?" he suggested. May tilted her head, curious.

"Couldn't I just...?" She glanced at her hand, hinting at her magical abilities.

"True," Ash conceded, "but you never know. You might find something you haven't thought of."

"I guess so..." May nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. As they wandered through the town, Ash scanned the shops thoughtfully, with May following close behind. "Hmm..." he mused.

"What?" May asked, sensing his curiosity. Ash glanced at her, his expression thoughtful.

"Have you always granted wishes magically? Or have you picked up any skills to do more activities in service?" May's expression softened, a hint of sadness in her eyes.

"The only different services anyone ever wanted were..." She trailed off, not needing to finish the thought.

"I see..." Ash said quietly, understanding what she meant. "So no..."

"No," May confirmed, her voice tinged with regret.

"Darn..." Ash muttered, disappointed.

"Sorry..." May said, feeling a pang of guilt.

"Hey, it just means there's room to grow," Ash said with a reassuring smile. May's heart warmed at his words, and she smiled softly. "I've got you," Ash said, his tone light and playful. May blushed again, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude.

"So it would seem..." she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. They continued to browse the shops, but nothing seemed to catch May's eye.

"Anything catch your eyes?" Ash asked after a while.

"Not yet," May admitted with a sheepish smile.

"Alright," Ash said, understanding.

As they entered a general store, May looked at Ash curiously.

"Are you looking for something?"

"We're looking for things that would spark interest in you, right?" Ash reminded her.

"Yes," May nodded.

"Well then, I think we should pick up some everyday objects for you to start doing things a bit more manually. Just to see if you like them," Ash suggested. May agreed, and Ash began selecting a few items—cooking supplies, general materials, and other odds and ends that he thought might be useful. After purchasing the items, May smiled at him gratefully.

"Thank you..."

"Sure," Ash replied with a smile of his own. May nodded, her smile soft and genuine. "Could you send these home?" Ash asked.

"Yes, Master." With a snap of her fingers, the items disappeared.

"Thanks," Ash said. May simply nodded in response. Ash looked at her, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "Now then," he began.

"Yes?" May asked, sensing his eagerness.

"Let's do something fun," Ash suggested, his smile growing.

"Such as...?" May asked, her curiosity piqued. Ash took her hand, and May blushed at the sudden contact.

"Let's go for a ride," Ash said.

"A ride?" May echoed, her blush deepening.

"Yeah," Ash confirmed with a grin. "A nice trip with a Ponyta or Rapidash."

"Oh. Alright," May agreed, her voice tinged with nervousness. Ash's smile widened at her response. "But we do not have any..." May pointed out, glancing around.

"We can see if there are any for rent," Ash suggested.

"Alright," May replied, her smile returning. As they walked together, hand in hand, May felt a sense of warmth and comfort she hadn't felt in a long time. It was a new beginning, and she was ready to see where it would take her. Ash scanned the area, his eyes searching for any sign of stables. May followed closely, sensing his focus.

"Hmm..." Ash murmured, furrowing his brow.

"What is it?" May asked, curious.

"I don't see any stables around here," Ash replied, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

"Oh..." May's shoulders sagged slightly. Ash turned to her with a reassuring smile.

"That shouldn't be a problem with a wish though, right?" May hesitated, then shook her head.

"I can't create living things..."

"Maybe not," Ash said thoughtfully, "but you could take us to a place that has them." May considered this and nodded, determination shining in her eyes.

"I can try."

"Go for it." Ash smiled, his confidence in her unwavering. Taking a deep breath, May snapped her fingers, and in an instant, the familiar town disappeared. They found themselves standing in a new town, with unfamiliar buildings and bustling streets. Ash looked around in awe, impressed by her magic. May spotted something in the distance and pointed.

"There," she said softly. Ash followed her gaze and smiled when he saw a stable near a travel carriage.

"Ah! Come on," he said, taking her hand as they walked toward it. May followed him, her heart racing slightly as they approached the coachman. Ash turned to the man, who was busy tending to the Rapidash hitched to the carriage. "Excuse me?" Ash called out. The coachman looked up and nodded politely.

"Yes, sir?"

"Is this carriage available? We'd like to go for a ride," Ash asked.

"Yes, sir, it is," the coachman confirmed with a friendly smile.

"How much?" Ash inquired. The coachman considered for a moment.

"Around the trail is two silver. The scenic route is three." Ash reached into his pocket and handed the coachman three silver coins.

"We'll take the scenic route." The coachman accepted the payment with a nod of appreciation.

"Thank you for your business. We'll be ready to go in just a minute." Ash turned to May, his smile warm and inviting. May felt a blush rise to her cheeks as she returned his smile. When Ash took her hand, her blush deepened, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she squeezed his hand gently. They waited as the coachman finished his preparations. Finally, Ash looked ahead, signaling it was time to board. May followed him inside the carriage, her heart fluttering as she sat down beside him. Ash settled in next to her, his presence comforting and steady. He smiled at her again, and May couldn't help but smile back, the nervousness in her chest slowly easing away.

"This should be fun," Ash said, his tone light. May nodded in agreement, her smile growing as she felt the warmth of his hand in hers. "Are we ready?" Ash asked the coachman.

"Yes sir." The coachman nodded and gently urged the Rapidash forward. The carriage began to move smoothly along the trail. Ash smiled, glancing at May, who was gazing out at the passing scenery. She smiled a little, the peaceful surroundings easing her mind as they began their journey together. Ash gazed ahead, his eyes following the winding path before them. May followed his gaze, admiring the way the trail stretched out, bordered by lush greenery.

"It's pretty..." May whispered, captivated by the beauty around them.

"Yeah..." Ash agreed, his voice soft and content. May turned to him, a smile playing on her lips. Ash returned the smile, his heart warmed by the peaceful moment they were sharing. The carriage rolled smoothly along the path, surrounded by a landscape that seemed almost untouched by time. As May took in the view, she noticed how much greener and more vibrant this area was compared to the town they had left behind. A genuine smile spread across her face as she watched the trees sway gently in the breeze. "Beautiful," Ash murmured, his eyes catching on a collection of wildflowers blooming along the trail. May's breath hitched as she saw them.

"Oh, wow…"

"They're lovely..." Ash said, his voice full of admiration.

"Yeah..." May echoed, staying close to Ash as they passed a gentle stream, the water sparkling in the sunlight. She felt the warmth of his hand in hers and squeezed it gently. Ash glanced down at her, then leaned over to place a soft kiss on her cheek. May's face flushed pink, but she couldn't help the smile that crept onto her lips.

"It's great to see you smile," Ash said, his voice full of affection.

"Th-Thank you Master…" May blushed, feeling a warmth in her chest she hadn't felt in a long time. She looked up at Ash, and their eyes met, both of them smiling at each other in silent understanding. Ash wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close as he shut his eyes, allowing himself to relax. May looked up at him, her cheeks still warm with a blush. The simplicity of the moment, the closeness between them—it was all so nice.

"This is nice..." Ash murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. May nodded, agreeing completely. She turned her attention back to the scenery, smiling softly as they continued their gentle ride. Ash's eyes suddenly caught movement in the distance.

"Ah," he said, intrigued.

"What?" May asked, just as a flock of Taillow took flight, scattering into the sky. "Oh..." Ash smiled at the sight, and May couldn't help but smile a little too. Suddenly, Pikachu hopped into May's lap, making her giggle softly. "Huh…?"

"Hello." Pikachu looked up at her, smiling in his usual cheerful way.

"Guess I'm not used to Pokémon much either..." May admitted, a little sheepish. Pikachu nuzzled her affectionately, making her smile even more. She gently petted the little Pokémon, and Pikachu cooed in delight. "You're sweet..." May said, her voice tender. Pikachu looked up at her with bright eyes, and she smiled back, feeling a little more at ease. Ash glanced ahead, then turned his gaze back to May.

"Enjoying yourself?" he asked, his tone light and curious. May nodded, her smile lingering. Just then, a Milotic leaped gracefully out of the water nearby, her body glistening in the sunlight before she dove back in.

"Whoa..." May gasped, her eyes wide with wonder.

"Beautiful," Ash said, his voice full of admiration.

"It sure is," May agreed, her voice full of awe. Ash grinned, clearly pleased.

"Got inspiration yet?" May nodded, feeling a spark of creativity beginning to form in her mind. "Great," Ash said with a smile. May blushed at his enthusiasm, her heart swelling with warmth. Ash looked to the coachman and asked, "How far are we, sir?"

"We're about halfway," the coachman replied.

"Sweet," Ash said, satisfied. May continued to watch the scenery, her mind now buzzing with ideas for her art. Ash turned to her, his gaze soft and full of affection. "You're glowing..." he remarked with a smile. May blushed, suddenly self-conscious.

"I-I'm sorry...?" Ash chuckled and leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. May kissed him back, her heart soaring, but their moment was abruptly interrupted by the distant sound of a battle. She pulled back, startled. "Huh...?" Ash's eyes narrowed as he turned toward the noise, his expression shifting from tender to alert. Whatever was happening, it was could hear shouts in the distance, followed by the unmistakable sound of arrows whistling through the air.

"Catch it!" someone yelled, their voice dripping with frustration. May followed Ash's gaze, her eyes widening as she saw an archer taking aim at something darting through the bushes. Another man, equally frustrated, was chasing after it with all the grace of a Tauros in a china shop.

"What the...?" she muttered, unable to believe what she was seeing.

"Can you tell what's going on?" Ash asked, his voice tense.

"It's hard to tell, but..." May squinted, trying to make out the scene. "I think someone is shooting arrows at a Pokémon..." Ash's eyes flared with anger.

"What!?" he growled, his tone sharp and furious. May flinched at the intensity of his voice.

"Master...?"

"Stop the carriage!" Ash barked, but he didn't wait for it to halt. In one fluid motion, he jumped from the seat, landing firmly on the ground. May, still in shock, carefully stepped out of the carriage, her eyes wide as she watched Ash confront the attackers.

"What the?!" one of them gasped in surprise as Ash burst onto the scene without warning.

"Hey! Pick on someone your own size!" Ash shouted, picking up a rock and hurling it with surprising accuracy at the archer. The rock struck the man's hand, and he yelped in pain, dropping his bow to the ground. A small Glaceon, trembling with fear, took the opportunity to escape from the bushes, darting over to hide behind Ash. Her blue fur was matted with sweat and dirt, and her eyes were wide with terror.

"What's the big idea!?" the archer snarled, clutching his injured hand.

"Give us our catch, you miserable brat!" the other man roared, pulling out another weapon and aiming it directly at Ash. The Glaceon whimpered, trembling even more.

"No!" May gasped, her heart pounding. Ash's eyes darkened with determination.

"Pikachu! Thunderbolt!" he commanded. Pikachu leaped into action, his fur crackling with electricity. He unleashed a powerful Thunderbolt, striking both men simultaneously. They screamed in pain as the surge of electricity coursed through them, their weapons scorched and useless. Ash stepped forward, his voice cold and resolute. "Try that again, and you'll be sorry." He knelt down, carefully picking up the trembling Glaceon, who flinched at his touch but looked up at him with timid, trusting eyes. May watched the scene unfold, still in shock at the sudden turn of events even as the hunters seemed to heed Ash's warning and run off. She stepped closer as Ash approached, concern etched on her face.

"A-Are you okay?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly. Ash nodded, his expression softening as he looked at the fragile Pokémon in his arms.

"I'm fine, but can you make sure she is?" May's eyes widened slightly as she realized what he was asking.

"You mean you want me to...?" she hesitated, glancing at her fingers. Ash gently held out Glaceon, his eyes full of trust.

"Please." May took a deep breath, then snapped her fingers with a touch of uncertainty. Glaceon looked up at her, feeling a warmth spread through her body as the magic took hold. Her fear and pain began to ebb away, replaced by a gentle calm.

"That should do it..." May said softly, her voice laced with concern. Glaceon, still nervous, looked away, unable to meet May's gaze. May frowned slightly, worried that she hadn't done enough. Ash noticed and smiled reassuringly.

"We should take her back to town with us," he suggested.

"As you wish..." May nodded, her resolve strengthening. Ash stepped back into the carriage, cradling Glaceon gently.

"Don't worry," he whispered, trying to comfort the little Pokémon. Glaceon whimpered, still unsure and frightened. She looked around the carriage, her eyes darting from Pikachu to May, her anxiety palpable.

"Are you... sure about this?" May asked hesitantly, still feeling uncertain.

"I don't want to leave her here with those hunters around," Ash explained, his tone gentle yet firm. "I just want to take her to a safer spot and then let her go."

"A-Alright..." May nodded, understanding his intentions. Glaceon, still trembling, looked around the carriage again, her ears drooping in confusion and fear. Pikachu noticed her distress and hopped over to her side, his eyes full of concern.

"Don't worry you're ok…it's all just…it's a little hard to explain..." Pikachu said softly, trying to reassure her.

"Where are you taking me...?" Glaceon asked, her voice shaky.

"It's safe, though..." Pikachu assured her. "You don't need to worry."

"Who are you?" Glaceon whispered as her ears drooped even more.

"My name's Pikachu," he replied with a warm smile.

"Glaceon..." she introduced herself, still feeling uneasy.

"Nice to meet you," Pikachu said gently, his tone full of kindness.

"Thanks for the help..." Glaceon murmured, still wary but grateful.

"Of course," Pikachu replied. "Are you alright? Does anything hurt?" Glaceon shook her head, the tension in her body slowly easing. Pikachu sighed in relief.

"Good. Just hang in there, okay? We'll get you somewhere safe."

"O-Ok…" Glaceon nodded, feeling a tiny bit of hope for the first time in what felt like forever. Ash looked over at May, his eyes softening as he saw the uncertainty on her face. She stood silently, her thoughts racing, unsure of how to process what had just happened. Without a word, Ash gently took her hand, feeling the slight tremor in her fingers.

"Sorry if I scared you back there," he said softly, his voice full of genuine concern. May blushed, her gaze dropping to the ground.

"I just... didn't expect all that..." she admitted, her voice trailing off. Ash let out a small chuckle, trying to ease the tension. May's brow furrowed in worry. "They could've killed you..." she whispered, the fear still evident in her voice.

"I guess..." Ash shrugged, trying to brush off her concern.

"Are you sure it was wise...?" May asked, her voice trembling with the weight of what could have happened.

"I just didn't want to let them shoot her..." Ash explained, his tone earnest. He couldn't bear the thought of letting harm come to the innocent Glaceon.

"Still, you could've been hurt..." May insisted, her eyes searching his for some reassurance. Ash smiled, a hint of mischief in his eyes.

"You could save me if I did," he teased lightly. May blushed, shaking her head slightly.

"Not without an explicit ask..." she reminded him, her voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and affection.

"Still," Ash replied, shrugging off her concerns. May studied him for a moment, her eyes widening as a thought struck her.

"Do you... do that often?" she asked, the worry in her voice deepening.

"Uh..." Ash hesitated, scratching his head awkwardly. May's eyes widened further. "I'm told I'm very reckless," Ash admitted sheepishly.

"I believe it..." May murmured, her voice laced with concern.

"How kind," Ash smirked. May blushed again, realizing how her words had sounded.

"Just... please be careful..." she pleaded softly, her heart tightening at the thought of losing him. Ash raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on his lips.

"In no hurry to be free, I take it?" May blushed even more at his cheeky grin.

"I've never had a Master die of murder... I don't know if that would even count..." she said, her voice trembling slightly with the absurdity of the situation.

"Let's not test it," Ash replied, his voice full of gentle reassurance. May nodded, feeling a little more at ease. Ash gave her a sheepish smile, his heart warming at the sight of her blushing cheeks. Without thinking, he pulled her into a gentle embrace, feeling the warmth of her body against his. May blushed deeply, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, tender kiss. May's blush deepened, but she found herself kissing him back, her heart swelling with emotion. As they pulled away, Ash smiled down at her, his eyes full of love. "I love you..." he whispered, his voice barely audible. May's heart skipped a beat.

"I... I love you too..." she replied, her voice trembling with the depth of her feelings. Ash's smile widened, his heart feeling lighter than ever before. He leaned in for another kiss, this one deeper, filled with all the love and affection he felt for her. May kissed him back, feeling the warmth of his hand as he gently stroked her cheek. She couldn't help but moan softly, lost in the tenderness of the moment. Ash pulled away slowly, his eyes lingering on hers, a soft smile on his lips. May blushed, but she couldn't help but smile back, her heart full of warmth and love. Just then, the carriage pulled to a stop, and May glanced outside, noticing that they had arrived.

"Thank you, driver," Ash said, his voice full of gratitude.

"No problem," the coachman replied, tipping his hat. Ash climbed out of the carriage, turning to help May down. She smiled a little as she took his hand, feeling a sense of security in his touch. Glaceon, who had been watching cautiously from inside the carriage, timidly stepped out, her eyes scanning the area nervously. May noticed her hesitation and looked over with concern. Pikachu followed close behind Glaceon, offering silent support.

"Thank you..." Glaceon whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Of course..." Pikachu replied, his tone gentle and reassuring. Glaceon began to walk away slowly, her steps hesitant, but she couldn't help but glance back at the group. May followed behind Ash, her heart still heavy with worry, but also full of love for the man who had risked everything to protect a frightened Pokémon. Ash let out a sigh, the weight of the day's events settling on his shoulders.

"I think that's enough excitement for today," he said, his tone light but weary. May nodded obediently.

"Yes, Master..." she replied softly, her cheeks flushing as she met his gaze. Ash smiled, the warmth in his expression making her heart flutter. Just as he was about to speak, a gentle tug at her skirt caught her attention. She glanced down to see Glaceon, her large, timid eyes looking up at her. "Glaceon?" May tilted her head in curiosity, wondering what the little Pokémon wanted. Glaceon's ears drooped slightly, a silent plea reflected in her gaze. Ash watched the exchange, his heart softening at the sight.

"I think she wants to come with us..." he said, his voice full of understanding. May hesitated, her mind racing with the implications.

"...It's not my decision..." she murmured, glancing up at Ash. Ash smiled reassuringly.

"I think we could use another friend," he said, his tone gentle yet firm. May looked down at Glaceon, who gave a tiny, almost imperceptible nod. The sight tugged at her heart, and she knew there was only one answer.

"Very well..." May agreed, her voice soft but resolute. Ash crouched down to Glaceon's level, his smile warm and inviting.

"Want to come with us, Glaceon?" Glaceon hesitated for a moment, then nodded again, this time with a bit more confidence. May watched the exchange, a mix of emotions swirling in her chest. Ash stood back up, glancing at May with a smile that seemed to say everything would be alright.

"I wish we were home," Ash said, his voice full of contentment. May gave him a small smile, and with a snap of her fingers, they vanished from the spot.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Ash smiled warmly as Glaceon jerked in surprise, her large, expressive eyes blinking in confusion as their surrounding abruptly changed. The new member of their little family seemed disoriented, her gaze darting around the unfamiliar surroundings.

"It's alright," Pikachu reassured her softly.

"Where...?" Glaceon's voice trembled with uncertainty. Pikachu pointed up towards the mansion that now stood before them.

"This is where we live."

"How did...?" Glaceon blinked again, her confusion deepening.

"It's a long story..." Pikachu offered a gentle smile.

"I-I need some kind of explanation..! Where are we?" Glaceon insisted, her voice tinged with panic.

"Technically speaking, in the middle of nowhere," Pikachu replied, trying to ease her concerns.

"Wh-what..?" Glaceon stammered, her voice rising with anxiety. Pikachu's tone became more solemn.

"She made this place for him to live in after his banishment from his Kingdom," he explained, gesturing to May. Glaceon blinked, her gaze shifting towards May, who stood silently nearby.

"Uh..." she murmured, still trying to piece everything together.

"She's a genie..." Pikachu, noticing her stare, added quietly.

"Whoa..." Glaceon's eyes widened in awe.

"Yeah..." Pikachu said with a sigh, "Poor girl has been at it for several millennia..."

"I see." Glaceon frowned, her sympathy growing. May remained silent, her expression unreadable as Glaceon slowly walked over to her. The two of them stood face to face, Glaceon tilting her head curiously as she studied the young woman before her. May glanced over at Ash, uncertainty flickering in her eyes.

"Master, I think she needs something..." Ash looked over, his expression gentle.

"I think she's just curious about you," he said with a smile. May rubbed her arm nervously as Ash crouched down to Glaceon's level. "I'm Ash, she's May. Hi there."

"Gla…" Glaceon cooed softly in response, her friendly demeanor putting Ash at ease. But May remained tense, glancing down as Glaceon nudged her with a paw. May looked at the Pokémon, uncertainty still clouding her gaze.

"Did you...need something?"

"I think she wants to play." Ash chuckled lightly.

"Oh..." May murmured, caught off guard by the innocent request. "I'm sure you two will enjoy yourselves..."

"It wasn't me she was pawing at..." Ash smiled again, his voice full of encouragement. But May shook her head slightly, her voice barely a whisper.

"B-But…I can't…"

"Why not hmm?" Ash raised an eyebrow, sensing her reluctance.

"My...track record with Pokémon is not great, Master..." May admitted, her voice laced with self-doubt.

"Come on now." Ash's smile didn't waver.

"It's the truth..." May's voice grew quieter.

"Go on," Ash urged gently. "Play with her, it'll be good for you." May hesitated, her gaze dropping to the ground.

"M-Master, I can't..." Ash gave her a playful, smug smile.

"Your Master gave you an order, May." he reminded her. May frowned, her reluctance clear.

"...Yes, Master..." Ash couldn't help but laugh cheekily at her reaction. But as May lowered her head, he realized she wasn't joking. He softened his tone.

"Hey, come on now, it's not that bad, is it?" May shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It...it's not the task, Master..." Without warning, Ash leaned in and kissed her gently. May's cheeks flushed a deep red as she shivered from the sudden affection. Ash stroked her back comfortingly, but as he pulled away, May looked up at him, her expression troubled. "Master..." she began, her voice wavering.

"Are you okay?" Ash asked, concern evident in his eyes.

"...It's rare you...actually order me to do things..." May admitted quietly, avoiding his gaze. Ash frowned slightly, sensing the depth of her discomfort

"I'm sorry... I thought you might find it kinda funny in context..." May shook her head again, her voice barely audible.

"...It's just...kinda a slap in the face reminder...that no matter how far I come, I'm always..." she explained. Ash gently cupped her cheek, his touch soothing her. May blushed again, her emotions in turmoil.

"Okay..." he murmured. "I'm sorry..."

"Huh...?" May tilted her head, unsure of what he meant.

"You don't have to play with her if you don't want to," he reassured her softly.

"But you said..." May began, confused.

"I won't force you." Ash smiled gently.

"Master..." May whispered, her voice full of conflicting emotions.

"It's okay," Ash said, his tone firm yet kind.

"I'm sorry..." May sighed softly. Ash shook his head.

"Let's just go inside." May nodded, her voice resigned.

"As you wish..." Ash wrapped an arm around her shoulders, guiding her towards the mansion. As they walked, May kept her gaze down, lost in her thoughts. Glaceon watched them go, her ears drooping in disappointment. Slowly, she followed them inside, Pikachu trailing close behind her, offering silent comfort. Ash walked towards his room, his steps unhurried, as if contemplating something important. He paused at the doorway, glancing back over his shoulder.

"Coming?" he asked softly. May stood there, hesitating.

"Master...?" He turned fully to face her, his expression gentle.

"I was hoping we could share a room from now on..." May's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red. The suddenness of his request left her momentarily speechless.

"I've never...done that before..."

"You've been sleeping in my room..." Ash gave her a reassuring smile.

"Not...living there..." she corrected, her voice barely above a whisper. He nodded, understanding her apprehension.

"Would you like to...?"

"I...I don't know..." May's uncertainty showed in her eyes as she stammered. Ash's smile remained gentle, his tone calm.

"Okay..."

"It's a lot..." she admitted, feeling overwhelmed by the idea. Ash chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"More than having sex with your Master..?" May's face burned with embarrassment, her blush deepening. She couldn't find the words to respond, her thoughts a chaotic jumble. Ash reached out, gently stroking her chin, his touch light but comforting. May's blush only intensified under his gaze. "I think we'll be okay," he said softly, his confidence soothing her nerves.

"I-I..." May tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat. Ash wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a tender embrace. May's heart raced as she felt his warmth envelop her. He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips. May's face turned bright red, the blush spreading to her ears. Ash smiled as he led her into the room, his hand still holding hers. Once inside, Ash kissed her again, this time with more passion. May's initial shyness melted away, and she timidly kissed him back. Ash's hands caressed her sides, drawing a soft moan from her lips. He echoed her moan with one of his own, their breaths mingling as they shared another deep kiss. Ash guided her towards the bed, his movements slow and deliberate. May's blush never faded, her heart pounding in her chest as she followed his lead. He smiled at her, his eyes full of affection, and she couldn't help but smile back, even as her cheeks burned. They lay down together, Ash cuddling her close, his body warm against hers.

"I love you..." he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity. May looked up at him, her eyes softening.

"...I love you too..." she whispered back. Ash kissed her cheek, the tenderness of the gesture sending a shiver down her spine. He gently laid her down, his touch feather-light as he nuzzled her nose playfully. May gave a nervous smile, her blush returning as Ash smiled back and kissed her again. She responded more confidently this time, her lips moving in sync with his. Ash's hands moved to cradle her face, his fingers gently brushing her hair back as he deepened the kiss. He shifted, positioning himself over her, their bodies close but not quite touching. May moaned softly as she felt his lips pressing against hers with more intensity. Ash teased her lips, and she parted them, allowing him inside. Their tongues danced together, the kiss growing more heated as May moaned loudly, lost in the sensation. Ash moaned back, the sound vibrating through her, making her shiver. But soon, the need for air became too much, and May slowly pulled away, gasping softly. Ash panted as well, his breaths coming in short bursts, but his smile remained as he gazed down at her. May's cheeks were still flushed, her heart racing from the intensity of their kiss. Ash sat up, his eyes never leaving hers, a tiny smile playing on his lips.

"Are you alright?" he asked, concern lacing his voice.

"Y-Yes..." May nodded quickly, her voice breathless. Ash's smile grew a little.

"Alright." May blushed softly, still feeling the lingering effects of their closeness. Ash glanced over at the things they had bought earlier, his eyes lighting up with an idea.

"Shall we check out the things we bought?" he suggested, his tone lightening.

"Alright..." May nodded, her blush finally starting to fade. Ash smiled, pleased with her response. He stood up, offering her a hand to help her to her feet. May accepted it, sitting up slowly as she watched him walk over to where they had left the bags. Ash pulled over the various art supplies they had gathered, placing them gently on the bed in front of May. She accepted the materials, her fingers lightly brushing over the brushes, paints, and canvas. It had been so long since she had held anything like this—something that felt entirely her own. Ash noticed the thoughtful expression on her face. "Wow..." she murmured, almost to herself.

"Hm?" Ash prompted, curious. May looked up at him, a mixture of wonder and nostalgia in her eyes.

"It's just...been so long since I felt anything was really mine..." she confessed quietly. Without a word, Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek, his lips lingering for a moment longer than usual. May's cheeks flushed with warmth at the gentle gesture, her heart swelling with gratitude. He pulled back, smiling down at her, his eyes full of encouragement. She managed to return the smile, though it was small and tentative.

"Have at it," Ash said, his voice soft but full of support. Taking a deep breath, May got up from the bed and both she and Ash went to another room of the mansion. Once they arrived in one of the sunrooms, May began setting up a workstation with her own hands, the simple act filling her with a sense of purpose. She arranged the paints, carefully laid out the brushes, and positioned the canvas just so. The distantly familiar routine of preparing to create brought a small spark of joy to her heart. Ash watched her intently, his smile never fading. He could see the subtle shift in her demeanor—the way her shoulders relaxed and her hands moved with more confidence. Finally, May picked up a pencil and carefully began sketching out her design on the canvas. Each line was deliberate, thoughtful, as she brought the image in her mind to life. Ash stayed close, silently observing, letting her immerse herself in the process. Once the sketch was complete, May dipped her brush into the paint, starting with broad strokes across the background. The colors blended seamlessly, her hand steady as she filled the canvas with vibrant hues. Ash smiled, watching the transformation of the blank canvas into something beautiful. He could see the joy returning to her eyes, the sense of ownership she had longed for beginning to take root. May lost herself in the painting, each stroke bringing her closer to something that felt uniquely hers. The connection she felt to her work grew stronger with every brushstroke.

Soon after, May carefully carried the still-wet painting outside, setting it in the sunlight to dry. The rays of the sun kissed the canvas, enhancing the vibrant colors she had meticulously applied. Ash followed her, watching with a smile as she placed the painting down. It was then that she noticed him behind her.

"Have you...been there the whole time?" May asked, glancing up at him.

"Problem?" Ash raised an eyebrow, his smile widening. May shook her head, a small blush creeping onto her cheeks.

"You were so quiet... I thought you had left..."

"I didn't want to distract you," Ash explained, scratching his head awkwardly. Her blush deepened slightly as she looked away, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"Thank you," she murmured, appreciating his thoughtfulness. Ash smiled back, the warmth in his gaze making her feel at ease.

"Once it dries, you can continue," he offered. May nodded, her expression softening as she looked at her work.

"If you want me to," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes flicking up to meet his. Ash's smile grew.

"Only if you want to." he corrected her. A soft smile spread across May's face, her earlier anxiety ebbing away. Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek, a gesture that had become increasingly familiar, yet never failed to make her blush. Ash chuckled softly, pleased by her reaction. "You're cute when you blush," he teased gently.

"Thank you Master…" May's lips curved into a shy smile, her blush deepening, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she stepped closer, letting him wrap his arms around her in a warm hug. She returned the embrace, resting her head against his chest. After a moment, Ash pulled back and headed inside, giving her hand a gentle squeeze as he did. May followed him, feeling a sense of contentment she hadn't experienced in a long time. As they entered the room, Ash turned to her with a thoughtful expression.

"I think it was very nice," he said.

"What was?" May asked, slightly confused.

"Your painting," Ash replied, his tone sincere.

"But it's not done yet..." May's brow furrowed slightly.

"So?" Ash countered with a smile. "It's already something beautiful." May hesitated, her insecurities bubbling to the surface.

"Well... I'm not sure how 'good' it is yet..." she admitted, her voice soft. Ash simply smiled at her, his confidence in her abilities unwavering. He moved closer, snuggling up to her side, and kissed her cheek once more. May blushed again, but this time, she allowed herself to feel the warmth of his affection. She gave him a small, appreciative smile as they stood together. Ash's smile never wavered as he gently led her to sit down. May settled into the chair quietly, her thoughts calm for the first time in what felt like ages.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Several days had passed, the sun hanging lazily in the sky as May stood outside, absorbed in her painting. The world around her seemed to disappear as she focused on the strokes of her brush, capturing the vibrant colors of the landscape on her canvas. The gentle breeze played with her hair, the silence broken only by the distant chirping of birds. She was so engrossed in her work that she didn't notice Ash approaching.

"Wow..." Ash's voice was soft, almost reverent. Startled, May turned around quickly, her heart racing at the unexpected interruption. She saw Ash standing there, a look of admiration in his eyes. He scratched his head, a shy smile tugging at his lips.

"M-Master, I'm sorry! I didn't know you were..." May's voice trembled slightly, a mix of surprise and nervousness.

"It's okay," Ash reassured her, his voice gentle. May hesitated, her gaze shifting back to the painting.

"I-I wanted to... surprise you with this one," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash's cheeks flushed slightly.

"S-sorry," he murmured, feeling a little out of place.

"Well... surprise, I guess," May said, giving him a nervous smile as she tried to steady her breathing. Ash returned her smile, his eyes softening. He could see the effort she had put into the painting, and it touched him deeply. "I still need to do some touch-ups, but..." May's voice trailed off, uncertain.

"It's beautiful," Ash said, his voice filled with sincerity.

"Thank you..." May's cheeks turned a shade of pink at his compliment. Without thinking, Ash leaned in and kissed her. It was a gentle, lingering kiss, one that spoke of his deep affection for her. May closed her eyes, leaning into the kiss, her heart swelling with emotion as she kissed him back. As they slowly pulled away, Ash reached up and gently stroked her cheek. May couldn't suppress the soft moan that escaped her lips, a sound that made Ash's heart race even faster. He responded with a soft moan of his own, the connection between them deepening with each passing second. May was the first to break the kiss, slowly pulling away with a shy smile. Ash's gaze remained fixed on her, his eyes filled with warmth and love. "It's just... to say thank you," May said softly, her voice trembling slightly. "In a way that doesn't rely on my magic..."

"Thank you?" Ash repeated, a bit puzzled. May nodded, her eyes lowering as she tried to find the right words.

"To you... for everything. Your patience with my shortcomings, your desire to help, your gentleness and kindness..." Ash felt his heart swell with emotion.

"May..." he whispered, his voice thick with affection. A soft smile played on his lips as he reached out to her. May's blush deepened, her face a bright shade of red. "You're too sweet..." he murmured.

"I-I don't know about that..." she stammered, unsure of how to respond to his compliment. Ash chuckled softly, the sound warm and reassuring.

"Come on now..." he teased gently, leaning in to place a tender kiss on her cheek. May's blush deepened even more, if that were possible. She gave him a small, bashful smile, her heart racing. "I love you. So much," Ash said, his voice filled with sincerity and warmth. May's eyes glistened with emotion as she looked up at him.

"I love you too..." she whispered back. Ash smiled, his heart full of love for her. May returned his smile, the two of them standing there, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun, feeling the love that bound them together growing even stronger.

As the last rays of the sun dipped below the horizon, Ash gently took May's hand, his touch warm and reassuring. She felt her heart flutter as a blush spread across her cheeks. There was something different in his demeanor, something that made her nervous and curious all at once.

"Hey... May?" Ash's voice was soft, almost hesitant.

"Yes, Master?" May replied, her voice equally gentle, her gaze meeting his. Ash hesitated, his thoughts clearly weighing heavily on him.

"I've been thinking about it over the last several days... and..." May tilted her head slightly, waiting for him to continue.

"And...?" Ash took a deep breath.

"I would... I would like... to return to my home kingdom..." The words hung in the air between them, and May's heart sank.

"Oh..." was all she could manage, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash stood there, silent, unsure of how to proceed. He could see the uncertainty in May's eyes, the way she looked at him, seeking answers he wasn't sure he had. "I-If that's what you wish..." she finally said, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I just..." Ash began, but his words faltered. May looked up at him, her eyes searching his. Without another word, he pulled her into a tight hug, holding her close. She blushed, her emotions swirling in confusion.

"Master, I... I don't understand..." she murmured, her voice muffled against his chest. Ash gave her a weak smile.

"I could use a hug..." he said, trying to lighten the moment, even though his heart was heavy. May responded by wrapping her arms around him, holding him tightly. He held her close, finding comfort in her embrace, even as his mind raced with worries. "I'm nervous..." Ash confessed, his voice barely above a whisper.

"About what?" May looked up at him, concern etched on her face.

"Home..." Ash admitted, his voice heavy with the weight of the word.

"Why...?" May asked, her voice soft, filled with concern. Ash hesitated, the truth difficult to express.

"Well... even if I wish for my banishment to be lifted and the truth to come out... there's another issue with going home..."

"What issue?" May blinked, her curiosity piqued.

"...Slavery is illegal in Pallet Kingdom..." Ash said, his voice tinged with worry. The realization hit May hard.

"Oh..." she whispered, understanding the implications of his words.

"And I don't want that to change..." Ash added, his voice firm.

"I see…" May nodded slowly. "but you know my magic cannot harm others... those who benefitted from your banishment make it impossible for my magic to work..."

"Are you sure about that..?" Ash asked, his voice laced with doubt.

"The whole point is that I am paying for hurting people..." May nodded again, more confidently this time. Ash looked at her, a deep concern in his eyes.

"Have you... ever really had a case like this..?"

"No..." May admitted softly, her uncertainty creeping back in. Ash took her hand again, his touch warm and reassuring.

"Please try..." May hesitated, fear gripping her heart.

"I'm scared..." she whispered, her voice trembling. Ash pulled her into another embrace, holding her tightly. "I don't know what'll even happen if I try to use my magic and it causes harm to someone... if it adds even just one more lifetime to my sentence I..." May's voice broke, fear and uncertainty weighing heavily on her. Ash tightened his grip around her, his voice firm yet gentle.

"You are not going to be hurting anybody... got that...?"

"It's my power..." May protested weakly, her voice filled with doubt.

"I promise... it will be okay..." Ash reassured her, his voice soft but confident.

"How could you possibly know that...?" May asked, her voice barely above a whisper, doubt clouding her thoughts.

"Because you're not going to be harming anybody..." Ash repeated, his voice steady. May shook her head, tears welling up in her eyes.

"You don't know that... someone benefitted from your banishment... and if that is reversed..."

"They'll have consequences for their own actions. That's not the same as you harming someone..." Ash's voice grew firmer, more resolute. May hesitated, uncertainty gnawing at her.

"The curse may not agree with you..."

"It... it's gonna be okay..." Ash held her tighter, refusing to let her go.

"Neither of us know that Master..." May whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. "But…it's what you want... I have to do it... or at least try..."

"You don't have to do anything that you think would prolong your captivity..." Ash said softly, his voice full of understanding.

"But you want..." May began, but Ash cut her off.

"That doesn't matter…I'm sorry," he promised.

"Just tell me what you want me to do..." May pleaded, her voice full of desperation. Ash looked at her, his heart breaking for the pain she was feeling.

"Do what you truly think is right..." he urged her gently.

"I can't..." May whispered, her voice trembling. "I can't make a decision like this... I can't..." Ash leaned in and kissed her, his lips soft and reassuring against hers. May blushed in surprise, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she kissed him back, the warmth of his embrace chasing away the fear that had settled in her heart. Ash moaned slightly, the sound sending shivers down May's spine, and she moaned back, their connection deepening with each passing second. When Ash finally pulled away, May's cheeks were flushed, her heart racing.

"I love you..." Ash whispered, his voice full of emotion.

"I love you too..." May replied, her voice equally tender. Ash smiled softly, his heart full.

"Let's go inside..." he suggested, his voice warm and inviting.

"As you wish..." May agreed, her voice barely above a whisper. With that, Ash took her hand and led her inside, the weight of their conversation still lingering in the air. May walked beside him quietly, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions, as she blushed again, her heart fluttering with every subtle gesture. When she glanced up at him, she found his eyes already on her, his gaze intense and unwavering. He stared into her eyes, searching, as if trying to convey something words couldn't express. The longer he looked at her, the more heavily she blushed, feeling as though he could see straight into her soul. Without a word, Ash pulled her in close, his embrace both tender and possessive. The intimacy of the moment left May breathless, her face glowing a deep shade of red.

"I think we both...need a breather," Ash said, his voice low and filled with a hint of mischief.

"W-What...?" May stammered, unsure of what he meant.

"A break…" Ash kept holding her, his hands warm and steady against her skin. May looked up at him, her confusion evident. But before she could say anything, Ash ran a nail along her bare spine, the sensation sending a shiver through her. His eyes were locked onto hers, filled with longing and something more, something that made her blush profusely.

"M-Master…"

"Will you?" Ash whispered, his voice barely audible, but the desire in it unmistakable. May's breath hitched, her blush deepening.

"I-If that's what you wish, Master..." she managed to reply, her voice trembling with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Ash responded by gently guiding her towards their room, his hand still firmly holding hers. May followed quietly, her heart pounding in her chest, anticipation building with every step they took. As they entered the room, Ash turned to her, his eyes filled with affection. He leaned in and kissed her, his lips soft and inviting. May kissed him back, the connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment. Slowly, Ash began to back her towards the bed, their kiss deepening as he moved. May couldn't help but moan softly, the sound escaping her lips before she could stop it. Ash moaned back, his voice filled with the same desire she felt. She leaned back slightly, letting him guide her, his hands never leaving her body. Ash rested one hand on her waist while the other gently held her side, his touch both comforting and electrifying. May moaned louder, the sound filled with the raw emotion she could no longer contain. With a gentle push, Ash allowed her to fall back onto the bed, his body hovering over hers, their connection never breaking. He pulled away from the kiss, just enough to look down at her, his breath warm against her skin. May's face was flushed, her eyes wide and filled with both anticipation and uncertainty. Ash placed a hand on her skirt, his touch light but full of intent.

"Hey..." he said softly, his voice teasing yet tender. May's blush deepened even more.

"H-Hi..." she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You're adorable when you're flustered," Ash murmured, his words causing her heart to race even faster.

"Th-Thank you...?" May's voice was a mixture of confusion and shy gratitude, unsure of how to respond to his compliment. Ash didn't give her time to think. He leaned down and kissed her again, his lips capturing hers with a renewed intensity. May kissed him back eagerly, her hands finding their way to his shoulders as she clung to him. Ash playfully poked her lips with his tongue, asking for permission. May parted her lips slightly, allowing him in. Their tongues met, dancing together in a rhythm that felt both new and familiar. May moaned softly into his mouth, the sound filled with longing and desire. Ash responded with a moan of his own, the vibrations sending shivers down her spine. His hand gripped her hip, holding her close as they continued to kiss, their connection growing deeper with each passing second. In that moment, nothing else existed—just the two of them, lost in each other's embrace.

In the soft light of morning, May slowly opened her eyes, blinking away the remnants of sleep. The room was quiet, the air filled with the gentle sound of breathing. She stretched, rubbing her eyes as she sat up, still wrapped in the warmth of the blankets. She turned and saw Ash sitting up in bed, his hair tousled from sleep.

"Master…" May said softly, her voice a mix of hesitation and relief. Ash looked over at her, rubbing his eyes.

"Good morning beautiful." he smiled sleepily, his voice still thick with sleep. "How are you?"

"To be honest I…I don't know…" May replied, her voice uncertain. Ash frowned slightly.

"How come…?" he asked, trying to coax more out of her. May sighed, her expression troubled.

"The restrictions fading…being able to sleep again…the regeneration of my virginity not occurring…things like that it's…it's weird…" she admitted, her voice soft. Ash nodded, understanding. "It just… feels weird…" she repeated, trying to find the right words to express what she was feeling. Ash nodded again, his silence encouraging her to continue. "I don't know what to make of it… in some ways it makes me happy… in others it scares me…" May confessed, her voice trembling with the weight of her conflicting emotions. Ash moved closer and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a comforting embrace. May rested her head against his chest, finding solace in his warmth. He stroked her back gently, his touch soothing her frayed nerves.

"I'm here…" Ash whispered, his voice full of reassurance.

"Thank you…" May murmured, her voice filled with gratitude. Ash leaned down and kissed her softly, his lips brushing against hers with tender affection. May kissed him back, her heart swelling with love and relief. He held her close, their connection deepening with every passing second. She moaned softly into the kiss, the sound echoing the emotions swirling within her. Ash responded with a slight moan of his own, the sound full of warmth and desire. When they finally pulled away, May's cheeks were flushed, her eyes bright with emotion. Ash smiled at her, a look of pure affection on his face. May returned his smile, albeit shyly, feeling a warmth spread through her chest.

"Okay," Ash said softly, his voice gentle. He gently let go of her and stood up. "Let's go downstairs," he suggested, his tone light and easy. May nodded, rising to her feet.

"As you wish…" she replied, her voice soft but obedient. Ash nodded back, leading the way downstairs. May followed him quietly, her heart still racing from the tender moments they had just shared. As they reached the bottom of the stairs, Ash glanced back at her and smiled, the warmth in his eyes making her blush once again. Ash glanced at May, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Hungry?" he asked, his voice warm and gentle. May responded with a small nod, her lips curling into a shy smile. Ash smiled back, a soft expression that made her heart flutter.

"Alright," he said, his tone light as he turned and began walking towards the dining room. May followed him quietly, the silence between them filled with a comforting familiarity.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

As they entered the dining room, Ash paused, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Hm…" he murmured, almost to himself. May tilted her head slightly, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

"What...?" she asked, her voice soft but eager to understand his thoughts. Ash turned to her, a spark of mischief in his smile.

"I was thinking… maybe I could cook you something for a change," he suggested, his tone casual yet filled with a kind of quiet excitement. May's eyes widened in surprise.

"W-What...?" she stammered, caught off guard by the unexpected offer. Ash's smile grew as he looked at her, amusement dancing in his eyes.

"I thought you might appreciate it," he said, his tone teasing yet sincere. May's cheeks flushed with a deep blush.

"I-I can't have you... I-I'm supposed to…" she began, her voice tinged with anxiety as she struggled to reconcile his offer with her duties. Ash stepped closer to her, his smile softening into one of pure affection. "I'm supposed to serve you..." May whispered, her voice almost trembling with the weight of her words. Ash shook his head gently, his expression full of understanding.

"I prefer to think of it as a kind gesture," he said, winking at her playfully. May blushed even deeper, her heart pounding in her chest.

"I-If that's what you wish…" she murmured, her voice barely audible. Ash chuckled softly.

"Here. If you really want to be technical about it, I wish I had all the skill of a famous chef," he said, his tone light-hearted.

"Y-Yes Master…" May blushed a little more but nodded, snapping her fingers as she granted his wish. Ash smiled as he felt a surge of confidence in the kitchen, a newfound skillset ready at his fingertips.

"Now then," Ash said, his voice full of enthusiasm. "How about I make us breakfast?" May's blush deepened, but she couldn't help the small smile that crept onto her face. Ash's joy was infectious, and she found herself feeling more at ease.

"Alright," she said softly. Ash grinned at her before heading into the kitchen. May followed him, watching in awe as he expertly moved around the kitchen, gathering ingredients and preparing their meal. There was something mesmerizing about the way he worked, and May couldn't tear her eyes away from him. As he cracked eggs into a bowl and whisked them with precision, Ash caught May staring at him. He looked over his shoulder and smiled at her, amusement in his eyes.

"Hey," he called out, snapping her out of her trance. May jolted back to reality, her face turning bright red.

"Huh?" she blurted out, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her. Ash laughed, the sound light and full of warmth.

"You were staring," he teased gently. May's blush deepened, and she quickly looked away, her heart pounding in her chest.

"D-Did you need me to do something…?" she asked, trying to cover her embarrassment. Ash set down the bowl and walked over to her, pulling her into a warm hug. May's breath hitched as she felt his arms around her, the sudden closeness making her blush even more. Ash smiled as he held her, his heart full of affection for the woman in his arms.

"Love you," he whispered, his voice full of sincerity. May felt her heart swell with emotion.

"I love you too…" she replied, her voice soft and full of feeling. Ash pulled back slightly, just enough to look into her eyes. He smiled at her, his expression full of warmth and love. May gave him a small smile in return, the connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment. He leaned in and kissed her cheek, a gentle gesture that made her blush even more. Then, with a satisfied smile, Ash returned to the kitchen to finish preparing their breakfast. As the aroma of cooking filled the air, May couldn't help but smile softly. "It smells wonderful…" she murmured, her voice full of appreciation. Ash turned to her, a grin on his face.

"Thanks. Though, I should say thank you, shouldn't I? Heh," he said with a playful chuckle. May blinked in surprise.

"Huh…?" she asked, slightly confused.

"You gave me the ability," Ash reminded her with a wink.

"Oh…" May said, realizing what he meant.

"So thank you," Ash said sincerely.

"Y-You're welcome…" May replied, a shy smile playing on her lips. Ash smiled warmly at her before plating the omelets he had made. He set the plates on the table and looked at May, his eyes full of affection. "Thank you…" May whispered again, her voice full of gratitude.

"Of course May." Ash returned her smile and sat down at the table, feeling content as they prepared to share the meal he had made. May carefully lifted a forkful of the omelet Ash had prepared and took a bite. The flavors danced on her tongue, and her eyes widened in surprise.

"Wow!" she exclaimed, unable to hide her delight. Ash blushed at her enthusiastic reaction.

"Really?" he asked, his voice tinged with both pride and embarrassment. May quickly blushed in return, feeling self-conscious.

"I-It's really good, I mean…" she stammered, struggling to find the right words to express her approval. Ash's blush deepened.

"Th-thanks…" he muttered, pleased but flustered by her praise. As they continued eating, a comfortable silence settled between them. May found herself smiling a little as she enjoyed the meal. Ash took another bite and then looked at her with a grin. "Wow… Tastes like our Chef Brock made it," he said with a touch of nostalgia. May tilted her head slightly.

"Brock…?" she echoed, unfamiliar with the name.

"He was a friend I had back home…" Ash nodded, a fond smile on his face.

"Oh…" May murmured, sensing the bittersweet emotions in his voice.

"Yeah…" Ash said softly, his thoughts briefly drifting to the past. May hesitated, then looked at him with concern.

"I'm sorry…" she whispered, feeling guilty for bringing up memories that might be painful for him. Ash blinked and turned to her, surprised by her apology.

"What for?" he asked, his tone gentle.

"Bringing it up…" May explained, her voice barely audible. Ash shook his head, offering her a reassuring smile.

"It's okay," he said, his voice full of warmth.

"Is it…?" May asked, still uncertain. Ash nodded, his eyes steady as he looked at her.

"Of course," he replied, his tone firm yet kind. May lowered her gaze, her hand unconsciously rubbing her arm as she processed his words. Ash leaned in and kissed her softly, a gesture that caught her off guard and made her blush in surprise. He smiled at her reaction before turning back to his food. "Don't worry about it," he said, his voice light and reassuring.

"O-Ok…" May stammered, still flustered by the kiss. They continued eating in a peaceful silence until May finished her food. Ash noticed and smiled at her, feeling a sense of contentment. "Thank you," May said softly, giving him a small smile in return. Ash reached across the table and took her hand in his, causing her to blush again. He leaned in, resting his head gently against hers.

"Problem?" he asked, noticing her deepening blush.

"N-No…" May replied quickly, her heart racing at the closeness. Ash smiled, amused by her reaction, before it faded and a more serious look crossed his face.

"You do have a point, though…" he said, his voice becoming more serious.

"Huh…?" May looked up at him, confused. Ash sighed softly.

"I do want to see home… more than anything right now…" he admitted, his voice filled with longing. May's heart tightened at his words.

"...Oh…" she whispered, unsure of how to respond. Ash hesitated for a moment, then continued.

"But I imagine you have it worse than me…" May opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again, her emotions swirling inside her.

"I… It's not important, Master…" she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash shook his head gently.

"Sure it is…" he insisted, his tone gentle yet firm.

"But…" May began, struggling with her emotions. Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek, a tender gesture that made her blush even more.

"I love you," he whispered, his voice full of sincerity.

"I love you too…" May replied, her voice soft and full of emotion. Ash stood up from the table, his expression thoughtful. May watched him, her heart aching with a mix of emotions.

"May…?" he called softly, causing her to perk up and look at him.

"Master…?"

"I…" Ash hesitated, then took a deep breath. "...I would like you to try the wish…" May's heart skipped a beat at his request. She took a moment to gather herself before nodding.

"...As you wish…" she said, her voice trembling slightly. Ash walked over to her and pulled her into a tight hug. May closed her eyes and snapped her fingers, her heart pounding with fear and uncertainty. Ash looked at her, concern in his eyes. May squeezed her eyes shut, clearly afraid of what might happen.

"It's okay…" Ash whispered, holding her close. May whimpered softly, her fear overwhelming her. Ash kissed her gently, trying to comfort her. She sniffled, leaning into his embrace.

"I'm scared…" May admitted, her voice trembling.

"I'm here…" Ash reassured her, his tone soft and calming. May stayed quiet, her emotions too intense for words. Ash kissed her cheek, and she blushed again, the warmth of his affection soothing her fears. "Feel any different?" Ash asked, his voice full of concern.

"N-No…" May replied, her voice shaky. Ash frowned thoughtfully.

"Hmm…" he murmured, thinking it over. May looked down, her emotions still in turmoil. "Why don't we just get prepared to leave?" Ash suggested gently. May nodded, her voice soft as she replied.

"As you wish…"

"Okay…" Ash said, his tone filled with quiet determination. May rubbed her arm nervously, trying to steady herself. Ash reached out to her, his voice full of warmth as he said, "Come on." May looked up at him and nodded again.

"Ok…" she whispered. Ash took a deep breath and made his wish.

"I wish all of our belongings were gathered up and organized for travel." May snapped her fingers, fulfilling his wish. Ash smiled at her, gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you," he said sincerely. May nodded, still feeling scared to see what her wish had done. Ash took her hand, giving her a reassuring smile. May blushed and tried to smile back, though her nerves still lingered. "I love you…" Ash whispered, his voice full of warmth.

"I love you too…" May replied, her voice soft and filled with affection. Ash leaned in and kissed her, holding her close. May kissed him back, her heart racing with a mix of emotions. Ash stroked her back gently, trying to soothe her. May moaned softly, the intensity of her feelings overwhelming her. Ash moaned back slightly, sharing in her emotions. They pulled away slowly, their eyes locking in a moment of understanding.

"Thanks for trying…" Ash said softly, his voice full of gratitude.

"You're welcome…" May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded, determination returning to his expression.

"Okay then… we should start heading towards Pallet Kingdom." May took a deep breath, steadying herself.

"As you wish…" she said, her voice filled fear in every form of the word.

Ash's steps echoed softly in the corridor as he made his way through the quiet house, his thoughts heavy with the decision he had made. The air was still, thick with an unspoken tension that had been building for days. He paused at the entrance of one of the many bedrooms, where a faint rustling caught his attention.

"Pikachu?" he called out softly, crouching down as his faithful companion emerged from the shadows of the room. The small, yellow Pokémon looked up at him, a mix of curiosity and concern in its bright eyes.

"We're going home," Ash said, his voice low and conflicted.

"Wait, what?" Pikachu blinked, tilting his head in surprise. Ash took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.

"I wished for the truth to come out," he admitted, the words tasting bitter as they left his mouth.

"You what...?" Pikachu's voice was laced with disbelief.

"I wished to be proven innocent," Ash repeated, his gaze dropping to the floor. The weight of his words hung in the air between them, a truth he couldn't take back.

"Why...?" Pikachu's ears twitched in worry.

"Well...I miss home..." Ash's shoulders slumped slightly as he answered.

"But you have no idea what that could do," Pikachu replied, its voice filled with a mixture of fear and caution. "And you know what would happen if anyone back home found out what May is..."

"...I know..." Ash whispered, his heart heavy with the reality of the situation. Pikachu's tail flicked anxiously as he took a step closer.

"This doesn't sound like a good idea..." Ash sighed, feeling the pressure of the choices he had made.

"Pikachu..."

"What are you going to tell everyone?" Pikachu asked, its voice tinged with worry. Ash hesitated before answering,

"I could tell them an extent of the truth... That she's magically enslaved to me, and that I'm unable to free her myself..." he suggested. Pikachu winced, shaking his head.

"I'm not sure that makes it sound better..."

"I don't know…" he sighed. "I've tried to free her..." Ash said, the frustration and helplessness evident in his voice.

"I know..." Pikachu replied softly, understanding his struggle.

"I don't have any better options," Ash admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. Pikachu sighed deeply, his small shoulders slumping. "I'm open to suggestions..." Ash looked at his friend, searching for an answer that neither of them had.

"I wish I had some..." A heavy silence fell between them, the enormity of their situation weighing down on them both. Pikachu stepped forward, wrapping his small arms around Ash in a comforting embrace. Ash froze for a moment, then closed his eyes and let out a shaky breath.

"...Thanks, buddy," he murmured, the words filled with gratitude.

"Of course," Pikachu replied, its voice soft and reassuring. As they pulled apart, Ash stood up, trying to muster a smile. Pikachu looked up at him, giving a small, reassuring grin in return. "Should I tell Glaceon we're heading out?" Pikachu asked, trying to ease the tension. Ash nodded, feeling a sense of resolve beginning to form within him.

"Yeah, that'd be good." Pikachu nodded back, his small feet pattering softly as he headed back inside to prepare for their departure. Ash watched him go, the weight of his decision still heavy on his heart, but with the faint hope that somehow, everything would turn out alright.

Glaceon stretched lazily, letting out a contented sigh as she rolled over on the soft bed. She was still marveling at how comfortable it was, a stark contrast to the cold ground she was used to. As she licked a bit of berry juice off her cheek, Pikachu approached with a warm smile.

"Hey," Pikachu greeted her, his tone light and friendly. Glaceon looked up, her blue eyes brightening at the sight of her new friend.

"Hello there," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of playfulness.

"How are you feeling?" Pikachu asked, noticing the relaxed expression on her face. Glaceon smiled, her eyes half-lidded in contentment.

"Well rested. These bed things are awesome!"

"Enjoying it, huh?" Pikachu chuckled at her enthusiasm. A blush spread across Glaceon's cheeks as she nodded. Pikachu's smile widened at her reaction. "It's okay. I was the same way my first time."

"I see..." Glaceon giggled softly.

"It's fun, isn't it?" Pikachu asked, his tone warm and reassuring.

"Sure is!" Glaceon nodded again, a soft smile playing on her lips. Pikachu noticed the change in her demeanor, a sense of peace and happiness radiating from her.

"I'm glad you're happy," Pikachu said gently, his eyes meeting hers. Glaceon's blush deepened as she scratched her ear, slightly flustered by the compliment.

"What?" she asked, her voice small and unsure.

"You seem much happier," Pikachu observed, his smile never wavering. Glaceon looked at him, her heart fluttering at his kind words. She returned his smile, feeling a warmth spread through her that had nothing to do with the temperature outside. "Feel like taking a trip?" Pikachu asked, his tone shifting slightly, as if he were testing the waters.

"A trip?" Glaceon tilted her head in curiosity.

"Yeah…" Pikachu nodded. "Ash wants to go home..."

"Home?" Glaceon echoed, a hint of disappointment in her voice. "You're leaving?" Pikachu gave a small nod, watching her reaction carefully.

"I'd like you to come..." Glaceon's ears perked up at the invitation.

"You want me to come with you?" she asked, her surprise evident. Pikachu nodded again, a soft smile playing on his lips.

"I like having you around," he said earnestly. A tiny smile tugged at Glaceon's lips as she felt a warmth in her chest.

"Is it cooler there?" she asked, trying to mask her excitement. "I'm melting out here."

"A bit, yes." Pikachu chuckled. Glaceon sighed in relief, her tension easing.

"Well, I was just getting used to this place... but that sounds nice." Pikachu's smile grew as he saw her considering the idea. "Okay," she finally agreed, her voice soft but sure.

"I'm glad to hear it," Pikachu said, his heart lifting at her response. Glaceon shook out her fur, Pikachu feeling the weight of the decision lift off his shoulders. Pikachu offered his paw, and after a brief hesitation, Glaceon accepted it. As they walked together, Pikachu couldn't help but glance over at her. Glaceon noticed his gaze and blushed.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" she asked, her cheeks heating up.

"I think you're really pretty. And your energy is contagious." Pikachu smiled gently. Glaceon's face turned a deep shade of red, and she quickly looked away, embarrassed by the compliment.

"Th-thanks..." she stammered, trying to compose herself.

"Of course," Pikachu replied, his voice warm and sincere. Glaceon glanced down at her paws, feeling a strange mix of emotions swirling inside her. "You okay?" Pikachu asked, noticing her sudden quietness.

"Y-yeah..." Glaceon replied, though her voice wavered slightly. Pikachu gave her paw a gentle squeeze, hoping to reassure her. "P-Pikachu..." Glaceon whispered, her heart pounding in her chest. Pikachu smiled at her again, his gaze soft and understanding.

"Something on your mind?" he asked, sensing her hesitation.

"I-I..." Glaceon began, struggling to find the right words. "You're awfully forward..."

"I just don't see a need to beat around the bush." Pikachu chuckled lightly. Glaceon let out a small laugh, the tension easing slightly.

"Heh..."

"Besides," Pikachu continued, "I've heard everyone likes to hear a compliment now and then." Glaceon's heart skipped a beat.

"Pikachu..." she began, her voice soft and vulnerable.

"Yeah?" Pikachu prompted, his eyes never leaving hers.

"...You're really sweet..." Glaceon admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Pikachu's smile widened, his heart swelling with affection.

"You are too," he said, his voice full of warmth. Glaceon blushed even deeper, turning her head away in embarrassment.

"Stoooop..." she murmured, trying to hide her face. Pikachu chuckled softly, finding her reaction endearing. But when Glaceon recoiled her paw, Pikachu's smile faltered slightly.

"What's wrong?" he asked, concern creeping into his voice.

"You're embarrassing me..." Glaceon admitted, her voice small and shy.

"I'm not trying to, honestly," Pikachu said earnestly, hoping to reassure her.

"Uh huh..." Glaceon replied, though there was a hint of playfulness in her tone. Pikachu met her gaze, his eyes filled with sincerity.

"Glaceon, I'm serious. I'm not." Glaceon gave him a playful shove, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"Uh huh..." she repeated, this time with a teasing lilt. Pikachu smiled back at her, relieved to see her spirits lifting again. Together, they walked towards the door, side by side, ready for whatever lay ahead.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Soon, May stood by the door, her hands nervously folded in front of her as she watched Pikachu and Glaceon approach. The two Pokémon seemed to be in high spirits, and it wasn't long before Glaceon's bright blue eyes caught sight of her. Glaceon looked up at May, her expression curious and full of energy. May hesitated, unsure of how to respond, but when Glaceon pawed at her skirt, she looked down in surprise.

"Y-Yes...?" May stammered, her voice uncertain. Glaceon didn't respond with words, of course, but her actions spoke loudly enough. She nuzzled May's leg affectionately, causing May to tense up in surprise. "Oh..." May murmured, not entirely sure what to do. Glaceon, however, was persistent.

"Gla!" She tugged at May's skirt again, her bright eyes shining with excitement.

"Huh...?" May muttered, trying to understand what the Pokémon wanted.

"Gla!" Glaceon exclaimed again, her tone cheerful and insistent.

"Is this...about playing again...?" May asked hesitantly, remembering their earlier interactions.

"Glace!" Glaceon responded with a bright smile, confirming May's guess.

"I-I'm sorry...I'm not good with Pokémon..." May admitted, her voice soft and apologetic. But Glaceon wasn't taking no for an answer this time. She tugged at May's skirt again, more determined now. With a playful grin, Glaceon stood on her hind legs and nudged May gently, urging her to join in the fun. May gulped, feeling a mix of anxiety and amusement. "O-Ok..." she finally agreed, her voice trembling slightly.

"Eon!" Glaceon giggled in response, her playful demeanor easing some of May's tension. May couldn't help but smile a little, despite her nerves.

"S-So how do I...?" she began, unsure of what Glaceon wanted her to do. In response, Glaceon purred softly and nuzzled against May's leg, offering reassurance. The gentle gesture made May blush a little, and she gave a tentative smile in return. Glaceon nudged her hand this time, looking up at her expectantly. Taking the hint, May reached down and gently petted Glaceon, her touch cautious at first.

"Ggglllaaa…" Glaceon purred louder, leaning into May's touch. The sound brought a small smile to May's face, and she began to relax. As she stroked Glaceon's soft fur, the Pokémon playfully pawed at her hand, eliciting a soft chuckle from May. When Glaceon licked her palm, May giggled, the unexpected action tickling her.

"Heh..." she laughed softly, feeling the tension in her shoulders ease even more.

"Glace!" Glaceon nudged her again, this time more playfully, and May couldn't help but smile back. She continued to stroke Glaceon's fur, her movements becoming more confident. Glaceon, pleased with the attention, laid on her back, exposing her belly in a clear invitation for more affection. May chuckled at the sight, finding herself growing more comfortable.

"Yes?" she asked, amusement evident in her tone as Glaceon pawed at her again.

"Glace?" Glaceon tilted her head, her expression innocent and endearing. May responded by gently stroking Glaceon's belly, earning another satisfied purr from the Pokémon. As she continued to pet her, May felt a genuine smile spread across her face. Glaceon licked her hand again, and May giggled at the ticklish sensation.

"You're a playful one, aren't you?" she remarked with a light laugh. Glaceon giggled in response, clearly enjoying their interaction. May couldn't help but smile back, feeling her initial nervousness melt away in the warmth of Glaceon's playful energy. As Glaceon shook out her fur, May chuckled, the sound filled with a newfound sense of ease. Glaceon smiled up at her, pleased with their little game. May returned the smile, her earlier anxiety now replaced with a quiet happiness. The connection she felt with Glaceon was unexpected, but as she looked into the Pokémon's bright eyes, she found herself feeling grateful for it. As they continued to play, Ash approached quietly, catching May's attention. Ash smiled at the sight of May finally playing and enjoying herself again.

"You look like you're having fun," he said with a playful tone.

"Heh…she's very sweet Master." May admitted with a small smile, unable to hide her delight.

"So are you," he assured her. "And it's good to see you having fun. It's a beautiful look on you."

"Thank you Master…" she replied.

"Alright," Ash said, his tone firm but gentle, signaling that it was time to move on. May stood back up, quickly returning to her more formal demeanor.

"As you wish," she replied, her voice steady and respectful. Ash nodded in acknowledgment, then looked around

"Let's move into a town first," he suggested, glancing at May to ensure she was on board with the plan.

"As you wish," May repeated, her hands folding neatly in front of her as she prepared to follow his lead. Ash leaned down to lift Pikachu into his arms, giving his friend a reassuring smile. Pikachu nuzzled into him, sensing the slight tension in the air.

"I wish we were in the nearest town," Ash said, his voice carrying a hint of urgency.

"As you wish Master." May snapped her fingers, her eyes flickering with a brief glow as she granted Ash's wish. Instantly, they found themselves in the middle of a small, bustling town. The sudden shift in their surroundings made Ash smile, satisfied with the ease of their transition. May, however, looked around nervously, her eyes darting to the unfamiliar faces around them. Despite her composed exterior, the impeding trip seemed to unsettle her slightly. Ash noticed her unease and gave her a reassuring look.

"Pallet Kingdom is further south," he explained, trying to ease her tension. "But I think it'd be kind of alarming if we just showed up," he added with a sheepish smile, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead as he imagined the chaos that might ensue. May's gaze softened at his attempt to lighten the mood.

"As you wish..." she murmured, though there was a trace of concern in her voice. With that, Ash began to move forward, Pikachu securely in his arms. May quietly followed behind him, her steps light and deliberate, always mindful of her duty. Despite her calm exterior, her thoughts were swirling with uncertainty as they headed toward the next chapter of their journey.

Ash looked at May with a gentle smile, his eyes filled with warmth as they headed towards his home. Finally, his home and the woman he now loved would be together all at once. Whatever challenges came from that he was willing to bare for her.

"You're going to love it, May," he said softly, taking her hand in his. "You're going to get the royal treatment." May's gaze fell to the ground, a shadow of doubt crossing her face.

"I don't deserve it," she murmured. Ash pulled her into a comforting hug, his arms wrapping around her protectively.

"Yes, you do," he whispered into her ear. A blush crept across May's cheeks, her heart pounding in her chest. "You deserve so much more than what I can do for you by myself…" Ash continued, his voice laced with sincerity.

"Master…" May's voice was soft, almost hesitant, as Ash took her hand once more. Her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink as Ash led her forward.

"Let's get moving…" he said, his tone light yet filled with a sense of purpose.

"Okay…" May nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. Hand in hand, they walked together, Ash's stride confident while May followed quietly, her mind a swirl of emotions. After a few moments of silence, Ash turned to her with a gentle smile.

"What would make you feel at home, May?" She hesitated, her fingers rubbing her arm nervously.

"I hardly remember having a home... I don't know…" Ash's expression softened as he looked at her.

"Well, you have one now…"

"You don't know that… you've told me their laws…" May shook her head, uncertainty clouding her eyes.

"I said slavery wasn't legal, yes, but they wouldn't be mad at you at all. I'm the one that'd get the heat…" Ash replied, his tone steady.

"There's always the option of them just sending away my ring…" May's voice wavered, a hint of fear slipping through. Ash shook his head firmly.

"They'd want you to be free. And that wouldn't solve anything."

"It'd keep a slave out of the Kingdom…" May insisted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash paused, his expression thoughtful.

"May… Why do you think slavery is outlawed in my home to begin with?"

"I wouldn't know…" May looked away, her voice small and uncertain.

"Because we view it as wrong. We don't think anyone should 'belong' to anyone," Ash explained gently.

"But I do…" May's voice trembled with the weight of her belief. Ash's eyes softened as he looked at her, his voice filled with concern.

"May…"

"Even you know you can't deny that…" she added, her eyes meeting his briefly before looking away again.

"Do you honestly believe you deserve to be a slave?" Ash asked, his tone gentle yet firm.

"Yes…" May nodded slowly, her voice filled with quiet conviction. Ash stared at her in surprise, his heart aching at her words.

"May…"

"I already told you what I did…" May's voice was laced with regret.

"It was an accident, May…" Ash said softly, his hand gently touching her cheek. May shook her head, tears welling up in her eyes.

"That was caused by my own stupidity and selfishness." Without another word, Ash leaned in and kissed her, his lips pressing against hers in a tender, reassuring gesture. May's cheeks flushed deeply as she returned the kiss, albeit hesitantly. Ash's hand trailed down her arm, his touch gentle yet firm as he pulled her closer.

"I don't want anyone talking down about the people I love… that includes you…" he murmured against her lips.

"It's not talking down… just the truth…" May's voice was faint, her heart torn between her feelings and his words. Ash pressed a finger to her lips, silencing her gently.

"No talking down," he insisted.

"Master…" May's voice was almost a plea as she looked up at him. Ash cupped her cheeks in his hands, his eyes locking onto hers.

"You're precious, May… worth more than anything I could ever wish for… and I'm not letting go until you say you're precious and worth love."

"I won't lie, Master…" May shook her head, her voice trembling. Ash's smile was soft but determined.

"Then I won't let go." He stood still, holding her close, his gaze unwavering.

"That's not how I feel…" May whispered, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. Ash's hands remained on her cheeks as he looked deep into her eyes.

"I love you, May… and I always will… whether you believe you deserve it or not… and I promise you… your family would believe you do too…"

"Yeah right…" May scoffed, her voice filled with bitterness. Ash sighed softly, his heart heavy with sadness as he looked at the woman he loved, knowing that her journey to self-acceptance was still a long and difficult one.

"Things are going to be different, May…" his voice broke the silence, carrying a quiet resolve. May's response was immediate, a deep-seated belief echoing in her words.

"Not for me, they won't…" Ash hesitated for a moment, then spoke again, his voice thoughtful.

"What if we got married?" May's eyes widened in shock, the suggestion striking her like a bolt of lightning.

"What?!" Realizing the weight of his words, especially given the trauma she has long since assigned with the idea of marriage, Ash quickly backtracked, a nervous chuckle escaping him as he tried to downplay the moment.

"Thinking out loud…" he added, his forehead beading with sweat. May trembled, her emotions swirling into a chaotic storm. She couldn't find the words, couldn't process the feelings that surged within her. "What…?" Ash asked, concern etching his features as he watched her. May shook her head, her breath hitching as she tried to steady herself. "May..?" Ash's voice was softer now, laced with worry. Without warning, May pulled away from him, her actions sharp and sudden. "May..?" Ash's frown deepened, confusion and concern mixing in his eyes.

"No…!" May's voice cracked as she moved further away, her hands flying to her head, gripping tightly as if trying to hold herself together. She squeezed her eyes shut, blocking out the world around her. Ash stood frozen in shock, his heart sinking as he watched the woman he loved unravel before him.

"I'm sorry…" he whispered, the words barely audible, laced with regret. May's tears broke free, streaming down her face as she fell to her knees, the weight of her emotions crashing down on her in a full blown panic attack. She cried openly, her sobs filling the empty space between them. Ash instinctively stepped back, giving her the space she seemed to need, though every fiber of his being ached to comfort her. He stood there, helpless, as she continued to cry, her pain echoing in the silence of the room. "May…" Ash's voice was soft, almost pleading, but May couldn't respond, lost in her sorrow.

"Oh no…" Pikachu whispered, watching May's breakdown alongside Glaceon, who looked just as concerned as he did. May cried until there were no more tears left, her body spent and exhausted. Ash looked down, his heart heavy with guilt and sadness, unsure of how to fix the rift that had opened between them.

"May…?" he tried again, his voice gentle, but she only shook her head, her silent refusal cutting deep. They stood in silence, the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air between them. Finally, Ash spoke, his voice heavy with regret. "I'm sorry…" May glanced at him briefly, her tear-streaked face reflecting the turmoil within her. Ash's eyes met hers, filled with a mix of sorrow and desperation. "...Please forgive me…" he whispered. May's gaze dropped to her lap, her heart aching with emotions too complex to name. She couldn't bring herself to speak, couldn't find the words to bridge the gap between them.

"...It's nothing… just forget it…" she mumbled, her voice hollow. Ash nodded slowly, understanding that pushing her any further would only cause more pain.

"Okay…" he agreed softly, though his heart was far from settled. For a moment, they stood there in silence, the tension between them palpable. Then, Ash extended a hand toward her, offering a silent olive branch. May looked at his hand but didn't take it. Instead, she slowly got up on her own, her movements stiff and mechanical. Ash let his hand fall to his side, a silent acceptance of the distance between them. Without a word, he turned to leave, his footsteps heavy as he walked away. May followed him silently, her mind a whirlwind of emotions, the silence between them more deafening than any words could have been.

The harsh desert sun beat down relentlessly as Ash trudged along the dry, dusty trail, his eyes scanning the ground for any signs of life. Behind him, May followed silently, her gaze fixed on the ground, her thoughts far away. The trail stretched out before them, a seemingly endless expanse of sand and rock. Ash's eyes narrowed as he noticed something unusual on the path ahead. He crouched down, studying the faint grooves etched into the dirt.

"Hm…" he murmured thoughtfully. May glanced up, curiosity piqued by his sudden interest. "A caravan must have gone by here…" Ash observed, his voice quiet as he straightened up. He glanced back at May, hoping for some response. May gave a small nod, her expression unreadable. "We seem to be going the right way, at least…" Ash added, trying to break the silence between them. But May offered no further response, her mind still locked away in her own thoughts. Ash sighed softly, glancing over at Pikachu, who was walking alongside Glaceon. The two Pokémon were deep in conversation, Glaceon seemingly taking the brunt of the trip's exhaustion.

"I feel like I'm melting…" Glaceon's voice was soft, filled with weariness.

"Just a little further, I promise." Pikachu gave her a reassuring smile.

"Are you sure about that..?" Glaceon asked, her tone tinged with doubt.

"I'm sure." Pikachu nodded confidently. Glaceon managed a small smile as Pikachu used his tail to shield her head from the scorching sun. A faint blush colored her cheeks.

"Thanks…"

"You're welcome," Pikachu replied with a smile.

"You're sweet." Glaceon nudged him playfully.

"I try." Pikachu blushed a little, his smile growing shy. The two Pokémon walked side by side, their conversation providing a small comfort in the oppressive heat. Glaceon leaned closer to Pikachu and licked his cheek affectionately, causing Pikachu to blush even more. Glaceon's smile was soft, content.

"Is it much cooler up ahead?" Glaceon asked, glancing at the horizon.

"Enough that I think you'll be more comfortable," Pikachu replied.

"Glad to hear it..." Glaceon shook her head, a small smile on her lips. Pikachu smiled back, a hint of relief in his eyes as they continued walking. Glaceon scratched her ear absentmindedly, her thoughts wandering as they moved through the barren landscape. Suddenly, her eyes sharpened, her attention drawn to something in the distance. "I think I see people," she said, her voice laced with curiosity.

"Where?" Pikachu perked up, scanning the horizon.

"Right there," Glaceon pointed with her paw. Pikachu squinted, and sure enough, he could make out the faint outlines of people carrying supply wagons and other objects in the distance.

"Huh. Sure enough." Ash, noticing their change in focus, approached the two Pokémon.

"What's up?" he asked.

"Look over there." Pikachu pointed toward the horizon. Ash followed Pikachu's gaze and saw the distant figures moving along the trail.

"Huh. Seems we're not the only ones on the road," he observed.

"Guess the tracks are fresher than I thought," Pikachu remarked.

"Should we keep going?" Ash nodded in agreement.

"Alright," Pikachu agreed as Ash resumed his stride. As they walked, Ash's mind wandered.

"I wonder what they're carrying."

"Don't know." Pikachu shook his head. Ash glanced back at May, his concern growing as he noticed her distant expression.

"May…" he called softly, but she remained silent, lost in her thoughts. Ash sighed, feeling the weight of the current between them. Pikachu looked up at him, sensing the tension, but said nothing. As they continued through the desolate landscape, the stillness of the desert was suddenly shattered by a deafening blast of fire in the distance. The ground trembled beneath their feet as the sky lit up with a fiery glow.

"Ah!" Pikachu gasped.

"What the!?" Ash exclaimed, his eyes widening in shock. May's eyes snapped open, fear flashing across her face. Ash didn't waste a moment, breaking into a run toward the source of the explosion. "May, stay close!" he called over his shoulder. Pikachu sprinted after him, Glaceon close behind, both Pokémon ready for whatever danger lay ahead. As they neared the site of the blast, Ash's heart pounded in his chest, a sense of urgency driving him forward. Whatever was happening up ahead, they had to be ready.

Ash dashed closer to the flames and commotion in the distance, his eyes narrowing as a group of bandits came into view. Beside him, Pikachu tensed, ears twitching nervously.

"Oh no..." Pikachu murmured, his voice filled with concern. Ash gritted his teeth, frustration bubbling up inside him.

"Wish I had a sword right about now..." May, standing just behind them, gave a quick snap of her fingers. Ash blinked, suddenly feeling the weight of a blade in his hand. He glanced around, startled, then let out a soft, exasperated laugh, a bead of sweat trickling down his temple. "Thanks," he muttered. May simply offered a small nod, her lips twitching into a brief smile. Ash's focus returned to the task at hand. He nodded once at Pikachu.

"Ready?" Pikachu asked, his tiny paws sparking with electricity. Ash nodded again, determination set in his eyes. Without another word, Pikachu darted forward, his yellow form a blur.

"Hey!" Ash shouted, his voice carrying over the commotion. One of the bandits turned, his eyes narrowing as he motioned toward his Houndoom.

"Get them!" With a snarl, the Dark Pokémon charged, flames already flickering at the edges of his maw.

"Thunderbolt!" Ash commanded. Pikachu leaped into the air, his body crackling with bright electricity before releasing a powerful jolt. Houndoom dodged with surprising agility, retaliating with a burst of Flamethrower that scorched the air. Ash ducked, feeling the heat of the fire rush past him. His heart pounded in his chest as he caught sight of Houndoom lunging forward and sinking his sharp teeth into Pikachu's tail.

"AH!" Pikachu yelped in pain.

"HEY!" Ash yelled, running forward and delivering a sharp slash to Houndoom's side with his sword.

"Doom!" Houndoom howled in pain, dropping Pikachu from his fangs before turning towards Ash with an angry growl. He prepared to pounce, but before the beast could retaliate, a beam of icy light streaked across the battlefield, slamming into him. Glaceon had joined the fray, her Ice Beam freezing the ground beneath Houndoom's feet as he yelped in pain. With Houndoom taken care of by Glaceon, Ash was able to spin around just in time to block a wild swing from one of the bandits' swords with his own. The clash of steel rang out as he parried, quickly countering and cutting across the bandit's hand.

"Ack!" The bandit yelped, stumbling back. In one swift motion, Ash drove his blade forward, striking the bandit down. The man collapsed to the ground, groaning in pain, as Ash stood over him, panting from the effort. Meanwhile, Pikachu and Glaceon were still locked in fierce combat with Houndoom. The Pokémon circled each other, sparks flying as Pikachu struck with Iron Tail, barely dodging Houndoom's savage claws. With a deep growl, Houndoom launched another Flamethrower, but Pikachu countered with a quick Thunderbolt. The two attacks collided in a shower of sparks and flames.

"Glaceon, help him!" Ash called out. Glaceon responded with another Ice Beam, freezing the ground beneath Houndoom, causing him to stumble. Pikachu seized the moment, pushing his Thunderbolt further until it struck Houndoom directly. The dark Pokémon howled in pain as electricity coursed through his body.

"Back off!" Pikachu growled, standing firm. Houndoom struggled to his feet, glaring at Pikachu through narrowed eyes.

"Back at you..." he rasped.

"Not happening," Pikachu shot back, his voice cold. Houndoom roared, releasing yet another Flamethrower, but Pikachu was ready.

"Pikachu!" Glaceon called. With blinding speed, Pikachu darted out of the way using Quick Attack, zigzagging through the trees. Houndoom gave chase, but Pikachu's speed was too much. With a swift ram, Pikachu sent Houndoom crashing into a nearby tree. Without hesitation, Pikachu gathered his energy, summoning a powerful Thunder attack that arced through the air before slamming into Houndoom. The Dark Pokémon let out a final cry of agony before collapsing to the ground, defeated.

"Stay down," Pikachu muttered, panting from the exertion. Houndoom growled weakly before slipping into unconsciousness. As the dust settled, Glaceon approached Pikachu, her icy eyes filled with concern.

"You're hurt," she said softly, her gaze lingering on his wounded tail.

"It's nothing that won't heal," Pikachu replied, offering her a reassuring smile. Glaceon hesitated for a moment, then gently licked his cheek. Pikachu's cheeks flushed pink as he blinked in surprise, a soft smile forming on his lips. Glaceon smiled back at him, her expression warm and tender. Pikachu padded back to Ash, his small body still roughed up from the recent battle as Glaceon followed.

"You ok bud…?" Ash asked.

"Tail's just a little sore…" Pikachu tried to brush off his concern. May stood silently nearby, her expression unreadable. Ash looked towards her with concern etched into his features.

"Can you heal Pikachu?" Ash asked, concern lacing his voice. May gave a slight nod and snapped her fingers. Pikachu felt a warm, soothing energy wash over him, easing the ache in his tail.

"Aaahhh…" he cooed.

"Thanks," Ash said, his attention shifting to the supply wagons the travelers had been guarding. He stepped closer, inspecting them. "Is everyone alright?" he asked, his gaze moving to the group of weary travelers huddled together.

"W-We're okay..." One of them, still shaking slightly, managed a stuttered reply. Ash nodded in acknowledgment.

"Thank you..." the other traveler added, their voice full of gratitude.

"That's great," Ash said, his voice steady and reassuring. As Ash helped the merchants clean up, Pikachu turned, he reached out to hold Glaceon's paw. She smiled at him, the warmth in her icy eyes unmistakable. Pikachu smiled back, feeling comforted by her presence. Glaceon then glanced over at the carts, her ears twitching.

"Something wrong?" Pikachu asked, noticing her sudden interest.

"Something smells good," Glaceon replied, her tone soft but determined. She led Pikachu toward the wagons, her nose twitching as she sniffed the air. Pikachu watched her closely as she moved. Suddenly, Glaceon's eyes lit up with excitement. "Hey!" she exclaimed, a playful smile crossing her face as she began nosing around some of the food supplies.

"Glace, you shouldn't take their food," Pikachu gently chided, though his tone was more amused than stern. Glaceon paused, looking up at him in confusion.

"Hmm?"

"We have plenty of food. We don't need to take theirs," Pikachu explained, his eyes kind.

"Oh, okay..." Glaceon replied, her ears drooping slightly as she pulled back from the food. Pikachu smiled at her reassuringly.

"We just need to ask, that's all. Okay?" Pikachu said, his voice encouraging. Glaceon nodded, returning his smile before walking back with him. As they approached May, Glaceon nudged her gently, trying to catch her attention. May looked down, meeting Glaceon's gaze.

"What...?" she asked, her tone flat. Glaceon simply smiled up at her.

"Glace!" she chirped happily. May hesitated before reaching down to give Glaceon a small pat on the head. The touch was brief, but it made Glaceon beam with delight. She then pointed to her mouth, looking up at May expectantly.

"Oh..." May murmured, realizing what Glaceon wanted. Glaceon nudged her again, urging her to understand. May glanced over at Ash, who was just noticing the exchange.

"Hm?" he asked, curious.

"She wants food..." May explained, her voice softening slightly.

"Want some of those berries?" Ash asked with a smile. Glaceon's eyes lit up as she nodded eagerly, her smile bright. May hesitated but eventually snapped her fingers, summoning some fresh fruit for Glaceon. The Ice-type Pokémon let out a grateful coo, her tail wagging slightly as she accepted the offering. May gave a small nod, watching as Glaceon trotted back to Pikachu, holding the berry out to him. Pikachu accepted it with a smile.

"Thank you," he said warmly. Glaceon carefully split the berry in half, offering one piece to Pikachu. He smiled even wider at the gesture before taking a bite of his half. Glaceon did the same, and they shared a quiet, contented moment together, their smiles reflecting in each other's eyes. As Glaceon finished her treat, she shook out her fur, scattering a few ice crystals into the air. May, watching the playful display, let out a small sigh, her thoughts hidden behind her quiet demeanor. Ash, sensing the mood, turned to May.

"Shall we?" he asked, ready to move on. May gave only a nod, her expression still distant. "Thanks again for the help," Ash said, offering her a sincere smile.

"...You're welcome," May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. One of the travelers stepped forward, his face still pale but grateful.

"We would be glad to give you all an escort," he offered, his voice trembling with appreciation. Ash nodded, acknowledging the gesture.

"Thanks," he said, giving a final nod before turning to follow the group forward. May stood quietly, her hands folded in front of her, her gaze fixed on the ground. Ash, noticing her silence, glanced over. "May...?" Ash called gently. She looked up at him, her eyes betraying the turmoil she was trying to hide. "I'm sorry for the stress I've put you through over the past few days," Ash said, his voice filled with genuine regret. May hesitated, searching for the right words.

"Master..." she began softly, but Ash cut her off.

"I mean it, May," he insisted, his eyes locking onto hers. May looked away, trying to downplay her feelings.

"I'm just... being overly sensitive…" she muttered, trying once again to downplay her own feelings. But Ash shook his head, his expression serious as he was determined to at least make sure she understood that he didn't want her to do that.

"No, I've been careless. I've forgotten how long you've been at this… not to mention all the abuse you've had to go through. It's probably even 10 times worse then I've even imagined in my head. I should have been more mindful. So for that, I'm sorry. And I want you to take all the time you need to work through it. Because I'm going to help however I can." Before May could protest, Ash leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. The unexpected gesture made her blush furiously, her heart pounding in her chest. "I love you," Ash whispered, his voice tender. May's breath caught in her throat. She looked up at him, her cheeks still flushed.

"I... I love you too," she finally admitted, her voice trembling with emotion. Ash smiled at her, his eyes softening. May's blush deepened, and she shyly averted her gaze, rubbing her arm awkwardly. Ash scratched his head, feeling a little awkward himself.

"Let's go," Ash said, breaking the silence with a soft smile.

"Ok..." May replied, her voice almost a whisper. Ash offered his hand to her. She hesitated for a moment, then gently accepted it, her fingers trembling slightly. They began to walk together, Ash holding her hand in his. May walked beside him, her heart still racing, the warmth of his hand making her blush all over again. Ash looked ahead, focused on the path before them, but every now and then, he would give her hand a reassuring squeeze. May walked in silence, but a small, contented smile played on her lips, her earlier worries slowly fading away.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Soon, the silhouette of a small town appeared on the horizon, the last stop before they would enter the borders of the Pallet Kingdom. Ash pointed it out as they approached.

"There's the last town before we're in Pallet Kingdom," he said, glancing over at May.

"Okay..." May replied softly. Ash's thoughts wandered for a moment.

"I wonder if they're looking for me..." he mused aloud.

"I wouldn't know, I guess..." May shrugged lightly.

"That's fine," Ash said, not pressing the matter further. May simply nodded, following him as they made their way into the town. As they stepped onto the main street, Ash couldn't help but smile, the familiar sights bringing back memories.

"Awesome!" Pikachu smiled as he and Glaceon took in the sights as well. May looked around a little, taking in the quiet, rustic charm of the town. She caught Ash's smile and gave a tiny one in return, though it was still tinged with uncertainty. Ash noticed and leaned in to peck her cheek. May blushed, her heart skipping a beat.

"You alright?" Ash asked, his voice gentle.

"M-Me...?" she stammered, still feeling the warmth of his kiss lingering on her skin.

"Yeah," Ash said, his eyes searching hers for any signs of distress.

"I-I…" May hesitated, then nodded slightly. "...I'm fine..."

"Okay," Ash replied, still a little concerned but willing to give her space. He noticed how she stayed close to him, her body language showing a need for comfort and reassurance. "Let's stop for the night," he suggested.

"As you wish..." May agreed, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded and, after waving a quick goodbye to their escort, began looking around for a place to rest. Spotting a familiar bench, he smiled.

"Here," he said. May looked over, and Ash gently pulled her toward the bench. "I know this town relatively well," he said, gesturing for her to sit down.

"Of course, Master…" May gingerly took a seat, her gaze flickering up to Ash as he stretched his arms above his head.

"Aaahhh…Finally sitting down..." he sighed, a sense of relief washing over him.

"Yeah..." May echoed, her voice distant as she stared down at her lap, her thoughts swirling. Ash noticed her quietness and frowned slightly.

"What's on your mind?" he asked.

"...A lot..." May admitted, her voice tinged with a mix of emotions.

"Right..." Ash responded, sensing that something was bothering her deeply. May took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly.

"I just... I can't stop thinking about... what you said before... It gives me panic attacks..."

"I... see..." Ash's heart sank, realizing that she was talking about his marriage remark from earlier.

"That was what I was trying to break free of when I destroyed my home..." May continued, her voice growing softer, almost as if she was speaking more to herself than to him. Ash was silent for a moment, the weight of her words pressing heavily on him. He reached out and gently took her hand, his touch warm and steady. May blushed a little at the contact, her pulse quickening.

"Sorry, May," Ash murmured, his voice filled with regret.

"It's fine..." May replied, though her tone suggested otherwise.

"No," Ash insisted, his grip on her hand tightening slightly. "Giving you a panic attack is not fine. I promise you I'm going to do better."

"You didn't know... and you have a right to do as you please..." May said, her voice wavering.

"I won't do anything with or to you that you don't approve of," Ash promised, his eyes earnest. May looked away, a faint sadness in her eyes. "And I'm going to help you through this. No matter how long it takes."

"...I appreciate the sentiment, Master... but there is much about me you still don't know... it's only a matter of time before something else comes up..."

"Maybe I don't know everything," Ash admitted. "But that doesn't change how I feel." May folded her arms, trying to hold herself together. Ash leaned in closer. "Caring is a part of loving," he said softly. May gave a small nod, her eyes downcast.

"I'll calm down with time..." she whispered. Ash nodded, understanding that she needed space to process her feelings. "...And please don't ever think I'm not receptive to your encouragement..." May continued, her voice trembling slightly. "It means a lot, even when I can't show it... Thank you..." Ash's lips curved into a small smile, touched by her words.

"Of course, May..." he said warmly. May smiled a little in return, her cheeks tinged with a soft blush. Ash couldn't resist pulling her into a gentle hug, wrapping his arms around her. May leaned into his body, finding comfort in his embrace. Ash smiled, feeling her relax against him. He pressed a tender kiss to her cheek, making her blush even more.

"Shall we find a place to stay for the night?" Ash asked after a moment, his voice soft. May gave a small nod, feeling a bit more at ease. Ash slowly sat up, and May stood beside him. "There's an inn around here somewhere," Ash said, looking around. May nodded again, her trust in him growing stronger with each passing moment. Ash led the way, navigating the familiar streets with confidence. "This way," he said, guiding her through the town. May followed closely, her steps light as she walked beside him, feeling a sense of security in his presence.

As they reached the inn, Ash pushed open the door, and the warm, dimly lit interior welcomed them. May glanced up at the sign above the entrance before following Ash inside. The inn was quiet, with the soft hum of conversation in the background and the smell of wood and hearth lingering in the air. Ash walked up to the front desk, where a middle-aged receptionist greeted them with a polite smile.

"Good evening," she said, her voice gentle.

"Can we have a room?" Ash asked.

"Of course. I have a few still available," the receptionist replied, nodding as she retrieved a ledger from beneath the counter. Ash nodded in return and signed his name in the book. "And about two pieces of silver should cover it," the receptionist added, glancing up at him.

"Of course." Ash handed over the coins without hesitation. The receptionist nodded approvingly and handed him a key.

"Last door on your right," she instructed.

"Thank you," Ash replied, taking the key from her.

"Enjoy your stay," the receptionist said with a warm smile. Ash gave her a small nod before turning to head down the hallway. May stayed close to him, her presence quiet yet comforting. Together, they made their way to the room, the inn's wooden floors creaking softly under their feet. Reaching the door, Ash unlocked it and stepped inside, holding the door open for May. She entered after him, her eyes briefly scanning the simple yet cozy room. Ash sighed with relief as he stepped further in.

"Finally..." he murmured, the weariness of the day catching up to him. May moved toward the window, sitting down on the small bench beside it. She looked out at the night sky, her thoughts drifting. Ash sat on the bed, rolling his shoulders to release some of the tension. "Could you magic the room clean, just in case?" he asked, his tone gentle. May nodded without a word and snapped her fingers. A soft shimmer filled the room, and the air seemed to clear, leaving everything feeling fresh and untouched. "Thank you," Ash said, his gratitude evident.

"You're welcome..." May replied quietly, still gazing out the window. Ash set his hat and tunic aside, preparing for bed. "I'll be going to bed now," he said, lying back onto the bed, exhaustion evident in his voice.

"As you wish..." May responded, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash gave a slight nod, his eyes already growing heavy.

"Join me if you feel like it..." he added before drifting off to sleep. May continued to sit by the window, her thoughts flowing freely as she stared at the stars twinkling in the night sky. The room was quiet, the only sound the soft breathing of Ash as he slept. May let out a small sigh, her emotions a mix of contentment and lingering unease. For now, she just let herself be, taking in the calm of the night.

As the first light of dawn began to paint the sky with soft hues of pink and orange, May sat quietly on the window seat, watching the sunrise. The serenity of the moment was palpable, a stark contrast to the tumultuous thoughts swirling in her mind. In the bed nearby, Ash stirred, letting out a soft yawn as he sat up, his eyes still heavy with sleep. May glanced over at him, and when their eyes met, her expression didn't seem to change.

"Good morning, Master," she greeted softly.

"Good morning, May," Ash replied with a gentle smile. She attempted a smile, but it barely reached her eyes.

"You... slept well?" she asked, her voice laced with a hint of concern.

"I did." Ash nodded, his smile growing a bit. "And you?" May hesitated, her gaze shifting back to the horizon.

"I... didn't try," she admitted quietly.

"May..." Ash began, concern evident in his tone.

"I just... needed some time to let my thoughts go... to think," she explained, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I see..." Ash nodded in understanding.

"It's good for me sometimes," she continued, "to just let my mind wander... try to untangle the mess in there." Ash watched her for a moment, then reached out a hand.

"Come here."

"Master?" May looked at him in confusion. Ash beckoned her closer with a gentle wave of his hand. Hesitant but trusting, May stood up and walked over to the bed. Without a word, Ash pulled her into his arms, holding her close. May's cheeks flushed with warmth as she felt the steady beat of his heart against her. Ash held her a little tighter, his presence a calming anchor in the storm of her thoughts. Then, with tender affection, he pressed a kiss to her forehead, causing her blush to deepen in surprise. He lay back down, pulling her with him, his arms still wrapped protectively around her. May's heart raced, her face a deep shade of crimson as she rested her head against his chest.

"Try and get some rest," Ash murmured, his voice soothing.

"But..." she began to protest, though her resolve was already weakening under his comforting touch. Ash held her a bit tighter, his voice firm but caring.

"Shut your eyes." Reluctantly, May closed her eyes, her body finally beginning to relax. Ash stayed beside her, holding her close as she slowly drifted off to sleep, her breathing evening out as she succumbed to the exhaustion she had tried so hard to ignore. Ash, too, closed his eyes, content to stay right where he was, with May sleeping peacefully against him.

After a time, May slowly opened her eyes, blinking as she adjusted to the soft morning light filtering into the room. She found herself still nestled in Ash's arms, his warmth enveloping her. Her cheeks flushed as she realized he was still holding her gently. Ash remained silent, his expression unreadable. Gathering her thoughts, May carefully sat up, trying not to disturb him too much. But just as she did, Ash's voice, soft and gentle, broke the silence.

"Hey..." May blushed, her heart skipping a beat.

"I thought you were asleep..." she stammered, surprised. Ash's lips curved into a small smile.

"Just resting my eyes."

"I see... My apologies..." she murmured, embarrassed by her assumption.

"You have nothing to apologize for." Ash shook his head slightly. Her blush deepened, and Ash couldn't resist leaning in to nuzzle her cheek affectionately. A small smile tugged at May's lips, her earlier anxiety beginning to melt away. "How'd you sleep?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine concern.

"Good..." May replied softly, her blush lingering.

"I'm glad," Ash said, his own smile growing. May returned his smile, a small but genuine expression that mirrored his. As he stretched, his muscles relaxing, May got up, feeling the need to move after their prolonged rest. Ash followed suit, stretching alongside her. Just as she started to stretch a little herself, Ash moved behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. The sudden embrace made her blush in surprise. "Wide open," Ash teased, his voice light.

"I-I'm sorry...?" May stammered, unsure of his meaning. Ash chuckled softly, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek.

"You were wide open," he repeated with a playful smile. Her blush deepened, and she couldn't help but smile back at him, albeit shyly. Ash's eyes softened as he looked at her, and before she could react, he leaned in to kiss her. The gentle pressure of his lips against hers made her heart race. Startled at first, May hesitated, but soon she found herself kissing him back. The shared warmth between them grew, their quiet moans mingling in the stillness of the morning. After a moment, Ash slowly pulled away, his breath slightly uneven.

"Master…" May blushed softly, the intimate exchange leaving her a little flustered. Ash, however, smiled at her, a look of contentment on his face. May returned his smile, small but sincere. Ash then took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"Come on," he said, his tone light.

"Yes, Master," May replied obediently, following him as he left the room, the peaceful morning still embracing them both. Ash stretched again, the comfortable weight of sleep now fully lifted from his body. His stomach rumbled audibly, drawing a chuckle from him.

"Let's get some food. I'm starving," he suggested, his tone light.

"As you wish." May nodded, her voice soft still. Ash smiled at her, a warm expression that made May's cheeks tinge with color. She blushed, lowering her gaze shyly as they both walked out of the room. As they descended the stairs, Ash reached out and took her hand, his grip gentle but firm. May blushed a little more, finding comfort in his touch as they made their way down to the lobby. As they stepped into the bustling area, they were met with an unexpected sight—a large crowd of people had gathered, all eyes turning toward them. Confusion flickered across May's face. "Huh...?"

"Hm?" May's brow furrowed as she scanned the crowd.

"What's going on...?" she wondered aloud. Before Ash could respond, someone in the crowd called out in a loud voice.

"There he is! It's the prince!" May's eyes widened in surprise as she glanced at Ash, who blinked in confusion. A messenger stepped forward, his demeanor formal and urgent.

"Your Highness! Your banishment has been lifted! You are to return home immediately!" the messenger declared, his voice carrying a sense of urgency. Ash's brow furrowed as he processed the sudden news.

"How did you know I was here...?" he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.

"The innkeeper sent for us once he saw your name. We've been looking for you," the messenger explained, bowing slightly in respect. May shifted awkwardly, rubbing her arm as the weight of the situation began to settle in. Ash noticed her discomfort and turned his attention to her, his concern evident.

"Are you alright?" he asked gently. May gave a small nod, though her unease was still apparent. Ash squeezed her hand, offering her silent reassurance. She blushed softly at the gesture, feeling a mixture of emotions she couldn't quite name. Leaning in close to her, Ash whispered under his breath into her ear.

"Don't call me Master until we're with my Mom..." May looked at him, uncertainty flickering in her eyes.

"But..." she began, her voice trailing off. Ash met her gaze, his expression firm yet kind.

"May..." he said softly, his eyes locking with hers, conveying more than words ever could. After a brief moment, May gave a small nod, understanding his unspoken request.

"O-Ok…" Ash smiled gratefully and pressed a quick kiss to her cheek.

"Thank you," he murmured. May responded with a nervous smile, the situation still feeling surreal to her. Ash, ever the pragmatic one, let out a small chuckle. "I still want to get food... heh..." he said, his voice lightening the mood. May hesitated, glancing at her fingers and then back at him, a silent question in her eyes about whether she should fulfill his wish. Ash shook his head gently, indicating that she should stay close and keep as low a profile as possible. She gave a small nod, silently agreeing, and stood by his side as the crowd continued to buzz with excitement around them.

Not long after, May found herself walking quietly behind Ash, her thoughts swirling as they made their way through the gathered crowd. An escort, dressed in formal attire, stepped forward and gestured ahead.

"Right this way," he instructed, guiding them toward a waiting carriage. May hesitated as she approached the carriage, her heart beating a little faster. With a slight pause, she finally climbed in, the unfamiliar surroundings making her feel uneasy. Ash followed closely behind, settling into the seat beside her. Noticing the tension in her posture, Ash leaned in, his voice soft with concern.

"You okay?" May glanced at him, her hands clasped nervously in her lap.

"...Some of them already know," she murmured, her voice tinged with anxiety.

"What makes you say that..?" Ash's brow furrowed in confusion.

"I could hear them whispering... My clothes are pretty obvious..." May explained, her gaze dropping to the simple yet distinct outfit she wore. Even in a Kingdom where slavery was outlawed, her outfit left little doubt as to what class she belonged. Ash considered her words, his mind quickly forming a plan.

"We'll clue them in on the fact that we met in the desert. It's true. And these kinds of outfits aren't that uncommon for royalty in harsher climates. Isn't that true?" he suggested, hoping to ease her worries.

"I wouldn't know..." May shook her head slightly.

"Have you ever lived with royalty? Or...someone who wished to be?" Ash asked, curious about her past experiences.

"Only a few times..." May admitted, her voice trailing off as she rubbed her arms, the motion a subconscious attempt to comfort herself. Ash reached out, placing a reassuring hand on her arm.

"I'm not gonna let anything bad happen, alright?" May's worry didn't dissipate entirely as she looked at him with concern.

"I don't want to get you in trouble..."

"You won't," Ash reassured her, his voice firm with conviction.

"But..." May started, but before she could continue, Ash leaned in and kissed her, the sudden warmth of his lips silencing her concerns. She blushed, her heart skipping a beat as he kissed her again, this time more gently, allowing her to respond. May's tension slowly melted away as she kissed him back, the connection between them momentarily pushing aside her fears. Ash stroked her cheek tenderly, eliciting a soft moan from her, which he echoed in return. After a lingering moment, May slowly pulled away, her breath slightly uneven. Ash gazed into her eyes, his own filled with a quiet resolve. May blushed under his intense gaze, feeling both vulnerable and safe. Ash pulled her into a hug, holding her close, and she instinctively wrapped her arms around him, finding comfort in his embrace.

"I'll take care of everything when I see Mom again," Ash murmured. "But for now, just try to relax."

"I... I'll try..." May replied, her voice soft but determined. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. Ash nodded approvingly and leaned back, his arm still around her. May followed his lead, leaning back in the seat a bit as the carriage began to move. Ash reached for her hand, holding it gently as they rode in silence. May blushed a little at the simple yet intimate gesture, her heart feeling lighter with him by her side.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

A couple of hours later, May's gaze drifted out the carriage window, her breath catching as a grand palace with a beautiful kingdom around it to match came into view. The towering spires and ornate architecture stood as a testament to the kingdom's power and history. Her eyes widened in awe, taking in the sheer magnificence of the sight. Beside her, Ash chuckled nervously, sensing her amazement.

"Oh... wow..." May whispered, almost to herself.

"Impressed?" Ash asked, a hint of pride in his voice.

"Yes... in more ways than one..." May replied, her thoughts momentarily lost in memories.

"Oh..?" Ash prompted, curious.

"My last Master was headed this way to conquer a kingdom... Now I wonder if it was... yours," she admitted, her voice laced with unease as the past collided with the present.

"I see..." Ash's expression softened.

"If it was... I'm sorry..." May continued, her voice barely audible as guilt settled over her. Ash shook his head gently, dismissing her concerns.

"I don't think so..." he said, wrapping his arms around her from behind, his embrace warm and reassuring. "It's been ages since any war was brought directly to the kingdom itself."

"It wasn't a war... it was an invasion..." May sighed softly.

"Even still," Ash responded, his tone unwavering. May rubbed her arm, still feeling the weight of her past. Ash, sensing her lingering discomfort, leaned in closer. "Whatever the case, it didn't work out," he said softly, his words carrying a quiet finality.

"Yes, Master…" May gave a small nod, acknowledging his reassurance. Ash smiled slightly, the tension between them easing as he leaned down to kiss her. May returned the kiss, her worries momentarily forgotten as his lips met hers. His hand reached up to stroke her cheek, eliciting a soft moan from her. Ash slowly pulled away, his eyes lingering on her flushed face. She blushed, feeling the warmth of his affection even as they approached the palace. As the carriage entered the courtyard, May glanced back out the window and saw a crowd had gathered to witness their arrival. The sight of so many people waiting filled her with a fresh wave of anxiety, and she gulped nervously. Ash noticed her unease and gently took her hand again, offering silent support. May glanced at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty.

"It's going to be okay..." Ash assured her, his voice calm and steady.

"I hope so..." she murmured, though the worry in her eyes remained.

"I promise," Ash said, squeezing her hand reassuringly. As the carriage came to a stop, May felt a slight tremor run through her. She squeezed his hand in return, drawing strength from his presence. Ash stepped outside first, his demeanor confident. May hesitated for only a moment before nervously following him, her heart pounding as she stepped into the waiting crowd.

The crowd roared with excitement as Ash assisted May down from the platform, his hands steady and reassuring. The overwhelming noise caused May to instinctively shrink back, finding some comfort in hiding slightly behind him. She felt the weight of every gaze upon her, the attention unnerving. Ash turned to look at her, sensing her unease. Their eyes met, and she saw the quiet reassurance in his expression.

"It's okay," he said softly. May gave a small nod, trusting him. With a deep breath, Ash turned his attention back to the crowd, moving forward with May quietly following behind him, her steps mirroring his. As they moved through the throng, Ash's eyes suddenly widened. "Is that my Mom..?" he muttered, spotting a familiar figure rushing towards him. Before he could react, Delia, his mother, was upon him, pulling him into a bone-crushing hug. "Ack!" Ash gasped as his mother's embrace squeezed the breath from his lungs.

"Oh, Ash!" Delia exclaimed, holding him tightly as if she might lose him again if she let go.

"Air…" Ash managed to grit out, his face scrunched in discomfort. May, watching from a short distance, sweatdropped at the sight, half-amused, half-worried.

"I've missed you so much, dear!" Delia's voice was filled with emotion.

"I've noticed…" Ash responded, his voice strained but affectionate. Delia finally loosened her grip but still held him close.

"Welcome home!" she said, her voice softening. Ash blinked, his thoughts catching up to the moment.

"What happened..?" he asked, concern lacing his words.

"I'll tell you everything inside, sweetheart. Let's go home," Delia replied, her tone soothing. As they began to move towards the castle, Ash hesitated, his eyes flicking to May. She looked up at him, her expression unreadable but her nervousness apparent.

"Mom?" Ash called, his voice tentative. Delia paused and looked back at him.

"What is it, honey?" Ash's hand tightened slightly around May's.

"I have something to say myself, but she needs to be with us." He gestured towards May. Delia's gaze shifted to May, her eyes taking in the girl's appearance. May, feeling the weight of the Queen's scrutiny, shrank a little under her gaze, her heart pounding.

"And this is…?" Delia asked, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity and something else May couldn't quite place.

"May, she's my Consort," Ash explained, his tone firm but gentle. "She saved me from dehydration in the Mirage Desert, and we've been together since." Delia raised an eyebrow, her expression unreadable.

"Consort?" she repeated, the word hanging in the air.

"Yes." Ash nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "I have to explain indoors." After a moment of contemplation, Delia sighed.

"...Very well," she agreed, though her eyes lingered on the ring now visible on Ash's hand. Ash slipped out of his mother's arms, taking May's hand in his. She blushed at the contact but didn't pull away. He looked up at Delia, waiting for her next move. With a measured look, Delia turned and began walking towards the castle. Ash and May followed closely behind, the former's grip on the latter's hand never wavering. As they entered the grand structure, Delia ordered the guards to close the gates, sealing them inside. Delia summoned a few more guards, her voice calm but authoritative. "Take her to a room. I want to have a private talk with my son." May's heart skipped a beat, her anxiety spiking as the guard approached her. The guard took her arm firmly, though without malice, but the firmness of his grip made her wince. Ash's eyes softened as he looked at her.

"It's gonna be ok…I love you…" he whispered, his voice barely audible. May gave a small nod, her heart aching as she was led down the hall, away from Ash. Ash watched her disappear around a corner, then turned to face his mother. Without a word, Delia began walking towards the throne room, and Ash followed her, his mind racing with thoughts of what was to come.

Delia sat regally in her throne, her gaze fixed on the doorway as Ash stepped inside. The weight of his presence was palpable, a tension hanging between them that neither could ignore.

"Tell me what's going on," Delia began, her tone firm yet laced with concern.

"It would be easier to explain if she was here..." Ash hesitated, his mind racing. Delia's expression didn't change.

"I'm sure you can make do." A sigh escaped Ash's lips.

"Just promise you'll hear me out all the way through..." Ash requested, his voice low, almost pleading.

"Very well." Delia nodded slowly. Taking a deep breath, Ash began.

"I know what you're thinking...and I don't like it any more than you do..." His voice wavered slightly as he continued. "She comes from well over a millennia of slavery...and I'm trying to give her a better life..." Delia remained silent, her eyes narrowing slightly as she listened. "She can't be freed by normal means...I tried to...I really did...but she's bound magically..." Ash explained, holding out his hand, the ring glinting ominously in the dim light. "Through this ring...Arceus bound her as a punishment, and she can't be free until her Master passes away...and I want to free her...I love her…"

"Magic…?" Delia's expression softened, but she still said nothing further.

"I can prove it..." Ash added, his fingers gently stroking the ring. A soft gasp filled the room as May appeared beside him, her sudden arrival startling her. She immediately shrank a little behind Ash, her eyes downcast.

"I see…" Delia placed a hand under her chin, deep in thought, her mind racing with the implications of what she was witnessing. Ash looked up at her, waiting for a response, his heart pounding.

"The last thing I want is to violate our own laws or morals," Ash continued, his voice steady but filled with determination. "But if I take off the ring, she'll just be forced inside it and will stay trapped and enslaved until someone new finds it and her debt is paid." Delia's silence was deafening.

"Please, send her away so we can talk, Ash," Delia finally said, her voice measured. Ash turned to May, their eyes meeting. The sadness in her gaze tore at his heart. He leaned in and kissed her softly, a gesture filled with love and reassurance. May blushed in surprise, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink. Delia raised an eyebrow at the display but said nothing.

"Better do as she says..." Ash murmured, pulling away from May. May nodded quietly, her steps hesitant as she walked out of the room, the door closing behind her with a soft thud. Ash faced his mother, the weight of the moment heavy on his shoulders.

"What exactly are you asking for, Ash?" Delia's voice was soft, but the question carried the full force of her authority. Ash took a deep breath, his resolve hardening.

"…Please don't separate us..." Delia sighed, her eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and understanding.

"I can't just suspend our laws for you, Ash. What kind of example would that set for the rest of the citizens of the Kingdom?" Ash took a deep breath, realizing that there was only one way that he might be able to make this work.

"Then let us be married..." Ash's voice was almost a whisper, but the determination in his eyes was unmistakable.

"Marry a slave?!" Delia's voice rose in disbelief. "You know your marriage has to be to another royal family member to ensure alliances. We need every leg up we can get."

"And how were you going to accomplish that while I was banished, huh?!" Ash's frustration boiled over. Delia's eyes flickered with a hint of guilt.

"…Gary was going to take your place in the deal. As a nobleman, he was adequate to satisfy a contract," she admitted. Ash's heart clenched at the revelation.

"So you'd give the throne to a liar and usurper, but not someone I love..."

"I cannot ignore what she is, Ash. And neither will anyone else in the Kingdom. She's an affront to everything we stand for. She's a slave who can literally never be anyone's equal. No matter what we do, she will always be something that we don't believe in. Someone that's below others." Delia's gaze hardened. Ash's eyes flashed with anger.

"I thought everyone was equal in Pallet..." he said coldly, turning on his heel and starting to walk towards the door.

"Where do you think you're going?!" Delia's voice echoed through the room. Ash stopped but didn't turn back.

"Mom...If I wanted to...I could simply wish for slavery to be legal here...and it would work. But the last thing I want is for people to suffer like she has...I still stand for everything we believe in...and I'm doing what I have to, to free her. A Prince marrying a slave is the most firm way to show what we believe in...even if she'll still be a slave...making an exception for love isn't setting a bad example...it certifies our beliefs...but that's the third time you've shown you care more about Pallet Kingdom's image than your own morals...let alone your son's happiness…" Delia stared at her son, the words cutting deep. After a long pause, she spoke.

"…There at least needs to be some ground rules." Ash turned to face her, his expression unreadable. Delia sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I don't think it's a good idea...but if you think it will make you happy, then I won't stand in your way. But we need to at a minimum establish some basic rules."

"Like what?" Ash asked, waiting for her to continue.

"The main one is that what she is and what she can do does not leave this family," Delia began, her voice firm. "I don't want people trying to kill you in order to take the ring and gain her power. And even spreading it to one person will be enough to start rumors."

"The last thing I want is to delay her freedom..." Ash agreed, his voice low.

"The other is that if you really want to still follow our laws, then you need to treat her as an equal partner," Delia continued. "Making these wishes from her only uses her position as a slave in ways I can't allow. I want you to promise that you won't ask her to use her powers. They are a part of her enslavement. And we don't enslave here."

"I'm not sure it can be helped..." Ash hesitated, his mind torn.

"You two will need to work together as a couple if you have any hope of making a marriage between you work," Delia pressed. "And you can't be truly equal if you can simply make her do as you ask. Not to mention the fact that magical occurrences will not go unnoticed by our people forever."

"I understand...but..." Ash nodded slowly.

"But?" Delia's eyes narrowed slightly. Ash sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"I don't think her own self-worth will be very cooperative...I've tried to encourage her and show she has more value...but she firmly believes that she deserves to be a slave and actively rejects other notions...it was a big enough ask getting her to not call me 'Master' until we saw you...she's not going to call me Ash, and she's certainly not going to behave differently because I ask her to try...she's been at this since before this kingdom existed, Mom...Several millennia...I can only work within her parameters...and she refuses to be seen as more than a slave...there's no way I can keep it a secret..." he explained. Delia's heart ached at her son's words, torn between her duty as a queen and her love as a mother.

"I want you to be happy, Ash...I do...but I have to think about the Kingdom too. Just as you have to as well. What do you think people will do or think if they see their new Queen as completely subservient to the King? Or worse, they find out that all they need to do to get to her power is get you out of the way? Our people are wonderful, and I'm happy they've embraced our values. But even they can succumb to the temptation of power she'll bring. Not to mention those from other Kingdoms. There has to be a line drawn. She needs to play the role if this will ever work." she insisted. Ash took a deep breath, his mind racing.

"The most we can do is keep the fact she's a Genie secret...I can't ask her to try to pretend to be something she doesn't believe she is…she believes to the core of her being that she is a slave…I hope to change that one day, but it'll take a long time…and I won't put her through that stress...besides...I think it's better they do see anyway..." he countered.

"What? Why?" Delia's eyes widened slightly in surprise.

"Haven't you heard what I've been saying?" Ash asked, his voice filled with conviction. "It certifies what this kingdom stands for. One slave in the entire kingdom and she lives in luxury with the prince. No one should belong to anyone, so we give the one who doesn't have a choice, the best life there is to lead." Delia's eyes softened as she considered his words.

"…It could work...but you know according to our laws, you become the reigning King upon your marriage. If the people don't agree with you, I won't be able to help you. Are you prepared to take that risk?" Ash met her gaze, his resolve unwavering.

"For her, yes..." Delia's heart swelled with pride and concern. She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him, holding him tightly.

"I love you so much..." Ash returned the embrace, his voice filled with emotion.

"I love you too..." They stood there for a moment, mother and son, united in their shared burden. Finally, Delia pulled away, her expression determined.

"Go get her and change into something nice. I'll prepare the public announcement."

"Huh?" Ash blinked in surprise. "Were you planning on having us married immediately...?"

"By the end of the week, yes," Delia replied, her tone matter-of-fact. "This will just be an announcement of the ceremony."

"Oh boy…" Ash groaned softly under his breath, realizing that he was going to have to try and convince May, a woman with a severe marriage phobia, to marry him. He didn't want to send her into another panic attack, but this was going to be their only chance to be together in his home. He knew he had to at least try, as hard as it would be. Delia, seeming to not notice his hesitation, already turned to leave the room.

"There's much to be done," she said, her voice echoing through the hall as she headed out to prepare her speech. Ash stood there for a moment, letting everything sink in before he finally turned and left the room, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May stood uncomfortably down the hall, her posture tense, as if the very walls around her were closing in. She glanced up as she heard Ash's footsteps approaching, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash walked over to her, a soft smile on his face, though his eyes were filled with concern.

"Well, I have good news, but there's a caveat..."

"Caveat...?" May's brow furrowed in confusion. Ash took a deep breath, knowing the weight of what he was about to say.

"Promise you'll try not to freak out..?"

"I...I'll...try..." May replied, though the uncertainty in her voice was clear. Ash hesitated for a moment before speaking, his words careful.

"We're welcome to stay...but we have to be married..."

"What…?!" May's eyes widened in terror, her breath immediately quickening as panic set in. Ash winced at her reaction.

"Breathe..." he urged, trying to keep his voice calm. May struggled to steady her breathing, but it continued to come out in ragged gasps. Her vision blurred as the fear took hold, making her feel as though the ground beneath her was slipping away. Ash reached out, rubbing her back in a soothing motion. "It's okay... just breathe..."

"I-I…" May panted, her legs trembling, and she nearly fell over as the panic overwhelmed her. Ash quickly held her steady, supporting her as she clutched her head tightly, whimpering in distress.

"Shhh...Shh..." Ash whispered, his heart aching at the sight of her tears. May trembled against him, tears streaming down her cheeks as she tried to speak. But all that came out was a quiet squeak.

"I can't..." Ash gently lifted her chin, looking her in the eyes, his gaze filled with love and reassurance. May met his eyes, her vision blurred with tears. She sniffled, her fear palpable in the air around them. Ash reached up and wiped a tear from her cheek, his touch tender.

"It's me...It's Ash..." he reminded her. May sniffled again, her gaze dropping to the floor as she struggled to compose herself. "I love you...you know that, right?" Ash asked softly. May gave a tiny nod, barely perceptible, but Ash saw it and his heart swelled with hope. "And you love me...don't you?" Ash continued, his voice gentle. May nodded again, though her movements were slow and hesitant. "Then it won't be so bad..." Ash said, his voice filled with quiet confidence. But May shook her head, her voice trembling as she spoke.

"I can't... I can't get...do that... I can't..." she trembled, unable to even say the word she was so scared.

"You can, May..." Ash insisted, his voice steady. May shook her head more vigorously this time, her fear rising again.

"You know why, Master...you know what happened..." Ash's expression softened, understanding dawning on him.

"And why would that affect you getting married...now to someone you love?"

"It'll all just end the same...one way or another..." May whispered, her voice filled with dread.

"You're telling me you'd go find some creature and destroy the kingdom?" Ash raised an eyebrow, a hint of challenge in his tone.

"No...! I would never...!" May's eyes widened in horror.

"Then what's the problem?" Ash asked, his voice calm but serious as he looked at her intently.

"It'll just end in disaster! Just like everything else around me!" May cried, her voice filled with anguish. "It all started with a marriage, and it'll somehow happen all over again!" Ash cupped her cheeks, his touch gentle yet firm. May blushed at the intimate gesture, her breath catching in her throat.

"May... Getting married wasn't the disaster..." Ash said softly, his voice filled with a quiet certainty.

"It triggered everything!" May's eyes filled with tears again, her voice breaking.

"No, May... it didn't... and I think deep down you know that..." Ash's voice was soothing, his words a gentle push towards the truth she was too scared to face.

"I can't go through with it... I can't..." May's voice wavered, her fear consuming her. Ash's gaze softened even more, his heart breaking for her.

"You have nothing to fear... Nothing..."

"...You just don't get it..." May shook her head, her voice barely a whisper. Ash leaned in closer, their faces mere inches apart. His voice was soft but firm, filled with a promise.

"Yes. I do." May blushed harder, her heart racing as their proximity sent her thoughts into a whirlwind.

"I-I…"

"I promise you...you have nothing to fear..." Ash whispered, his breath warm against her skin. May's breath hitched, her emotions swirling inside her, a mixture of fear, love, and confusion. Ash closed the small distance between them, pressing his lips to hers in a gentle, reassuring kiss. May blushed deeply, her heart pounding in her chest as she felt the warmth of his love enveloping her. Ash kissed her lovingly, pouring all of his emotions into the gesture, hoping to soothe her fears with his touch. May hesitated for a moment, then slowly began to kiss him back, her fear gradually giving way to the love she felt for him. Ash's hand moved to her cheek, stroking it gently as he deepened the kiss, wanting to reassure her that everything would be okay. May moaned softly against his lips, her body responding to the love and comfort he was offering. Ash's fingers threaded through her hair, his touch light and soothing, as he tried to calm the storm of emotions raging inside her. May's moans grew a bit louder, her fear beginning to melt away in the warmth of his embrace. Finally, Ash slowly pulled away, his eyes locked onto hers, filled with love and reassurance.

"Master…" May panted softly, her breath coming in short, uneven bursts as she looked up at him, her eyes still glistening with tears, but now also holding a spark of hope. Ash held May close, feeling the weight of her fear in the tension of her body.

"May... I swear to you... everything is going to be okay..."

"...I can't take that risk..." May hesitated, her voice a whisper filled with doubt. Ash gave her a warm, reassuring smile.

"May... The only risk there's gonna be is accidentally stepping on a toe while dancing."

"I said I can't... I can't get married... much less try to be a Queen..." May looked away, avoiding his eyes. Ash gently turned her face back towards him, his eyes soft.

"You won't have to, May... You don't have to be anything more than what you are now... we're coming clean about you being my slave..."

"That's not true...! You want me to be your wife...!" May's voice rose in frustration.

"Yes, but..." Ash began, but May cut him off, her fear spilling over into her words.

"I can't do that! I can't be your wife! I can't be that person!" Her voice trembled with emotion. Ash took a deep breath, his tone firm but gentle.

"...As long as I wear this ring... I am your Master... and you are my slave... like a wedding band... until death do we part..." he reminded her.

"Exactly! That's who I am! A slave! A piece of property worth nothing beyond what I can provide with my powers! I can't be someone's equal partner! I can't give you anything that you would really want! I can't be your partner! I can't give you children! And even if I could, I don't deserve any of it! I am worthless, why can't you see that?!" May's voice cracked as she exploded into tears, her emotions overwhelming her. Ash pulled her into a tight hug, holding her as she sobbed into his shirt.

"You're enough for me..." he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. May cried against him until she had no more tears left, her body trembling with the force of her emotions. She sniffled quietly, purposely hiding her tear-streaked face against his chest. Ash stroked her head gently, his heart aching for her. "...Please don't cry…"

"I can't…" May sniffled again, her breath hitching as she tried to calm herself. Ash pressed a gentle kiss to her temple, causing her to blush a little under her tears. They stood in silence for a moment, the air thick with unspoken words and shared emotions. Finally, Ash spoke, his voice soft but filled with determination.

"If the answer is no... then we'll leave... right now... but it has to come from you... Are you willing to let me be your Master, and your husband..?" May hesitated, her mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. She knew the weight of the decision before her, the risk it entailed. But as she looked up at Ash, saw the love and hope in his eyes, she felt something shift inside her.

"I..." she began, her voice trembling. Ash waited, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched her. May took a deep breath, her voice quiet but resolute. "...Yes..."

"Really..?" Ash's eyes lit up with a small smile, his heart swelling with relief and joy. May nodded, her voice filled with quiet conviction.

"...If anyone ever in my life has earned a risk from me... it's you..." Ash's smile widened as he leaned in, pressing his lips to hers in a tender, loving kiss. May kissed him back, her heart pounding in her chest as she felt the warmth of his love surround her. Ash held her close, savoring the moment, before slowly pulling away.

"I love you so much..."

"...I love you too..." May blushed, her voice soft as she whispered back. Ash looked at her, a mix of love and determination in his eyes.

"For now, I have to get changed. I'd like you to come, ok?" he explained gently.

"Very well..." May nodded, her voice calm and steady. Ash walked with her to his room, the tension slowly easing from her body as she leaned into him. As they reached the door, May blushed, her heart fluttering with a mixture of fear and anticipation. Ash noticed her blush and gave her a reassuring look. "I'm still scared, Master…" she admitted quietly.

"I know…It's okay..." Ash whispered, his voice soothing. May took a deep breath, finally steadying her breathing as she tried to calm the storm of emotions swirling inside her. Ash opened the door, and May followed him in, her heart still pounding, but now with a glimmer of hope shining through her fear.

Once in his childhood bedroom, Ash walked over to his dresser, selecting clothes more suited for home. As he began to change, May respectfully turned away, her cheeks tinged pink.

"If it's all the same, I wouldn't have minded," Ash said with a playful grin. "We've seen each other naked and are bound to again." May blushed a little deeper, her voice soft.

"That doesn't mean I'm okay with staring... I try to still be respectful..." Ash, now dressed, wrapped his arms around her waist from behind.

"I get to look at the most beautiful person in the world every day. I'm prone to staring. You're welcome to do the same." May's blush intensified as she shivered under his touch, her heart racing.

"You're not making it any easier," she murmured. Ash's hand ran gently along her skin, sending a warm shiver down her spine.

"What do you think of our room?" he asked, emphasizing the shared space. May mentally corrected herself before speaking, a soft blush still on her cheeks.

"It's lovely..." Ash smiled, thinking of his faithful Pikachu.

"I think Pikachu liked the bed you gave him more than the one in here. Can you replace it?"

"Yeah..." May replied, snapping her fingers to make the change. Upon her command, a new bed identical to the one she had made before appeared instantly.

"Thanks, love," Ash said warmly, causing May to blush at the nickname. He leaned in, kissing her softly. May kissed him back, her heart swelling with affection. Ash's hand stroked her skin, making her moan softly into his mouth. He pulled her closer, deepening the kiss, their connection growing stronger with each passing moment. May's moans grew louder, mingling with Ash's as they lost themselves in the moment. But eventually, May had to pull away for air, her breathing heavy, her body trembling with the intensity of their shared emotions. Ash held her close, his eyes filled with warmth and love.

"Master…" May managed a small smile, feeling a mix of anxiety and comfort in his embrace.

"Come on. Let's go," Ash said gently. May looked up at him, her voice tinged with nervousness.

"Go where...? What's going to happen...?"

"My mom is going to announce us properly," Ash explained.

"I see..." May gulped, anxiety bubbling up inside her again. Ash squeezed her hand, trying to reassure her.

"And I think later, you two should meet properly."

"She doesn't like me..." May's anxiety only grew.

"I wouldn't say that..." Ash replied, though he knew the situation was complicated.

"Just by the way she looked at me…" May trailed off, her voice filled with uncertainty. Ash gave her a reassuring smile.

"It's impossible not to like you."

"I think you're biased, Master..." May said softly, though she appreciated his words. Ash kissed her again, his lips gentle and full of promise. May kissed him back softly, trying to draw strength from their connection.

"Let's go," Ash said, his voice filled with quiet determination.

"O-Ok..." May agreed, though her heart was still pounding with anxiety. Ash led the way, and May followed him out, her mind swirling with uncertainty about what was to come. Despite her fears, she held on to Ash's hand, finding comfort in his steady presence.

Ash took a deep breath and began walking towards his mother, Delia, who stood just inside the balcony, smoothing out her dress. As he approached, she turned to him with a gentle smile.

"Are you ready?" she asked.

"I-I suppose," Ash replied, a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

"You know the drill. Come out when I introduce you, okay?" Ash glanced at May, who stood nearby, looking nervous.

"With her?"

"If you wish. Or you can have her hang back until you announce her," Delia suggested. Ash looked at May, who was fidgeting nervously.

"Would you be more comfortable with me?"

"I-I don't know," May stammered, glancing around anxiously.

"Less of a spotlight if we go out together..." Ash offered. May hesitated but then nodded.

"I guess..."

"You'll still need to formally introduce her to the crowd," Delia interjected.

"Right." Ash nodded in understanding, then took May's hand, feeling her tremble slightly. She blushed deeply at his touch, her nervousness palpable. Ash gave her a reassuring nod, which she returned, albeit nervously. He turned to his mother, and with a final nod, Delia stepped out onto the balcony.

"Citizens," Delia began, her voice carrying over the crowd. "It is with great pleasure that we welcome my son, Prince Ash, back to our Kingdom. Back to his home. A great injustice has been righted, and for that, we give thanks. But we have even more reason to celebrate today. For with his return, Prince Ash has also brought with him the woman he has decided to wed. Which means that he is also ready to be crowned. Please join me in welcoming Prince Ash." She stepped aside, applauding along with the crowd. Ash, holding May's hand, stepped out onto the balcony. The sight of the cheering crowd made May blush even harder. Ash raised his voice to address the people.

"It's with great honor that I introduce May, who both saved my life and rekindled my hope in the Mirage Desert. Without her, I would not be here today. There is no one on this planet that I would rather marry."

"Meep…" May squeaked under her breath as she blushed even more. The crowd's eyes turned towards her. Ash continued, addressing the murmurs that had spread through the kingdom upon their arrival.

"Now, there have been rumors upon our arrival that have been rather unflattering. But I'm going to lay them to rest truthfully... Some who saw her believed her to be a slave..." He paused, taking a deep breath. "As you know, it has long been against our laws and way of life to hold anyone in slavery. The notion that someone could be property and 'belong' to somebody is appalling to our people... but alas... those rumors are true. She does come from a life of slavery and subservience. Our bond is mutual, but far from traditional. But this is why we will be married by this weekend. There is no truer way to ground our beliefs against slavery than to let her into the royal family! To have her be my Queen. A new start and a new life for her. In her heart, she will always be a slave, and I will always be her Master. This is not something that can be changed, but we can work to undo the trauma she has endured in her life and offset her enslavement by providing her the best life and highest role that can be bestowed upon her. I love her more than anything. I wish only that you welcome her with open arms and to stand by our beliefs by giving her your love, as you have loved my mother."

"Master…" May's blush deepened at his declaration. Ash leaned in and kissed her, and she blushed in surprise before beginning to kiss him back. He held her close, and she moaned softly as he stroked her back, her nervousness giving way to affection. They finally pulled away, and May, still blushing, whispered, "You... really believe all that?"

"Well, I want you to have the best life possible. I love you to bits, and no one could ever come close. I want to help you through your pain. Does that about sum it up?" Ash smiled as he lifted her chin slightly.

"Master…" May blushed bright red and gave a small, genuine smile, feeling a surge of true love for someone for the first time in her life. Ash held her close, and she initiated a kiss for the very first time. His eyes widened in surprise, but he kissed her back happily. She moaned softly, leaning into him as he stroked her back. They finally pulled away for air, both blushing hard.

"Did you just throw yourself at me?" Ash asked with a cheeky smile.

"I-I..." May stammered, blushing even harder.

"In front of the entire kingdom?"

"I-I'm sorry..." she said nervously. But Ash kissed her again.

"I like seeing you happy," he declared.

"I love you." May gave him a small smile.

"I love you, too," Ash replied, holding her close. May rested her head against him, and he looked at Delia. "We done here?"

"I believe we are." Delia nodded, smiling at the applauding crowd. Ash turned to May, giving her a teasing smile.

"I'm afraid I have to disturb you from your comfortable position."

"Okay..." May replied, still blushing. Delia headed inside, and Ash lifted May into his arms, bridal style.

"Is this a suitable replacement?" May blushed heavily in surprise but nodded.

"Yes..."

"Good." Ash smiled warmly. May smiled softly back at him, and Ash carried her inside, her heart swelling with love and happiness. With the announcements over, Ash turned to his mother. "When's dinner, Mom?"

"About an hour. It should be ready." Delia smiled warmly.

"Sweet," Ash replied with a grin as Delia looked at May.

"I'll see you there. Both of you." She walked off, leaving the young couple alone. May blushed a little as Ash watched his mother leave. He then turned back to May with a smile.

"Hey, cutie."

"Master..." May began hesitantly.

"Yeah?"

"Thank you," she said softly.

"You're welcome," Ash replied. May laid her head on his shoulder, and Ash kissed her gently. She kissed him back, and he moaned slightly, feeling a deep connection between them. She moaned back, and he slowly pulled away, whispering, "May..? Can you grant me a wish..?"

"Um... yes?" May looked at him in confusion. "Haven't I been doing that since we met...?"

"Yeah, but this one's special." Ash chuckled softly. "I wish that even as I grow old, I'll always have the strength to hold you like this..."

"You're... being serious?" May blushed heavily, unsure if he was serious.

"Yes..." Ash nodded softly.

"O-Okay..." May stammered, snapping her fingers.

"Thank you," Ash whispered, kissing her cheek. May gave him a small smile.

"I love you..."

"I love you too..." Ash replied. "Well, we've got an hour."

"I guess so..." May agreed.

"Would you like to relax or... see home?" Ash offered.

"See home...?" May echoed, her curiosity piqued.

"Yeah... your new home."

"I suppose I should know my way around, huh...?" May said thoughtfully. Ash nodded.

"Alright. Let's do it." He set her down gently, and she folded her hands. Ash wrapped an arm around her waist, causing her to blush. They started walking together, side by side.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

"I want to introduce you to the friend I mentioned," Ash said.

"Okay..." May responded, taking a deep breath to summon some courage. Ash walked down the hall into the dining room, May following closely by his side. They entered the kitchen, and May looked around curiously, taking in the bustling activity and delicious aromas.

"Smells amazing," Ash commented, taking a deep breath. May nodded in agreement. Just then, Ash called out, "Hellooooooo?" Brock emerged from the freezer, carrying some ingredients.

"Hey Ash! Welcome back!" he greeted with a warm smile.

"Glad to be back," Ash replied, smiling widely. Brock's eyes shifted to May, and he raised an eyebrow.

"Oh. Who's this?"

"Missed the announcement? She's my bride-to-be." Ash chuckled.

"Apparently so. But the dinner doesn't cook itself, you know. Well, anyway, congratulations." Brock laughed.

"Thanks," Ash replied.

"We'll need to discuss wedding cakes soon then," Brock added with a grin.

"Yeah, we will." Ash nodded.

"I'm happy for you. Both of you." Brock smiled warmly.

"Thanks, man. She's grateful too. She's just not used to expressing it," Ash said, giving May a teasing poke.

"S-Sorry..." May blushed.

"It's alright. No offense taken," Brock assured her. Ash leaned in and kissed her, and she kissed him back.

"Can you check on Pikachu and his new friend after dinner?" Ash asked his friend.

"Sure, no problem." Brock chuckled.

"Thanks," Ash said appreciatively.

"My pleasure," Brock replied. Ash turned around and smiled at May, who gave him a small smile in return. He led her out of the kitchen, and as they walked down the hall, May looked up at Ash.

"He seems nice," she remarked.

"He is." Ash nodded. May gave a small nod of acknowledgment. "He also looks out for all the Pokémon that live in the palace."

"That's nice of him," she added.

"We do pay him to do it. But he enjoys it nonetheless." Ash chuckled. "So, where to now?"

"I don't know...it's your castle," she answered.

"Not just mine anymore," he reminded her as he held her close. May blushed softly, his comment causing a question to cross her mind.

"Master, may I... ask you something...?"

"Go ahead," Ash encouraged.

"I understand... heirs are important to the royal family..." she began hesitantly.

"Yeah..." Ash responded, sensing where the conversation was headed.

"I... I have told you that I can't... you know... right?" she said softly. Ash's expression grew serious.

"You mentioned it when you were crying..."

"Well... I wasn't exaggerating..." May admitted.

"I see..." Ash said quietly.

"I don't know how that shakes out for your kingdom but..." May continued, her voice filled with uncertainty. Ash's grip on her tightened.

"You're worth it," he said firmly.

"I mean... would adoption count...?" May suggested tentatively.

"If you would like to." Ash nodded.

"I'd like to think under the right circumstances I could be a decent parent..." May mused. Ash smiled warmly as he continued. "And I don't want to leave your kingdom without an heir just because of me..."

"Well... worst-case scenario... there is still one other option..." Ash said thoughtfully.

"There is...?" May looked at him in surprise.

"I do have a little sister..." Ash revealed. May's eyes widened. "She's overseas at the moment, at least, that's what I've heard from the staff around here. But if she has kids, they could be our successors."

"You never mentioned her..." May said, still processing the information.

"I didn't have a reason to... and she's exhausting," Ash admitted with a sweatdrop.

"Exhausting...?" May asked, intrigued.

"You'll see what I mean," Ash said with a rueful smile.

"I see..." May said, her thoughts drifting back to her own family. Ash noticed her silence and looked at her with concern.

"You okay?"

"I... I had a younger sibling as well..." May said softly, rubbing her arm.

"Oh..." Ash said, his heart aching for her.

"It's not your fault..." May reassured him. Ash held her close, stroking her back gently.

"I'm sorry..." May leaned into him, feeling the comfort of his embrace.

"Thank you..." Ash nodded, continuing to rub her back soothingly. She laid her head on his chest, and he kissed her forehead gently. May blushed softly, feeling a sense of peace wash over her.

"This is nice." Ash sighed contentedly.

"Yes..." May blushed a bit harder. Ash held her close.

"I like you expressing your feelings... it's refreshing."

"I'll do my best..." May gave a small smile.

"Sounds like a deal," Ash said, leaning in to kiss her. May kissed him back, her heart racing. Ash moaned into her mouth, and May responded with a soft moan of her own. His hand stroked her back, sending shivers down her spine. When he ran his nail along her spine, May moaned louder. Ash slowly pulled away from the kiss, watching her blush. "Like that?"

"Y-Yes Master…" May gave a small nod, smiling a little. Ash nodded back, pleased.

"Let's keep moving," he said, starting to walk again. May followed him, and they made their way toward the ballroom.

"This place is fun," Ash commented as they entered the grand room.

"Oh?" May responded, curious.

"A lot of events are held here. Including birthdays," Ash explained.

"I see..." May said, looking around. Ash's gaze shifted to the throne nestled up on a stage above the main floor.

"I can't believe I'm going to be king in a few days... I don't think I'm ready..."

"What...?" May looked at him with concern.

"Well... my ascension to the throne is when I get married... and not long ago I had just been banished..." Ash's voice trailed off.

"They'd be lucky to have you as their king," May said firmly. Ash blushed. "You shouldn't doubt yourself... I do enough self-doubt for the both of us..." May chuckled at her own joke, causing Ash to grin.

"Well, in that case, maybe I should just let you sit in my lap instead of beside me then. Since my queen's confidence is so low." He kissed her cheek. "Maybe I'll handle the 'fun' stuff and you can take it easy."

"H-Huh...?" May blushed. Ash sat in a nearby chair and pulled her into his lap.

"Like this," he said, pretending to write something with his free hand and May blushed even harder. "Work for you?"

"I-I suppose so..." May stammered.

"Well, okay then." Ash chuckled. "Guess this is what we're doing on the throne." May's blush deepened, and Ash kissed her again. She kissed him back, feeling his hand stroke her bare skin. She shivered at his touch. Ash slowly pulled away. "We should get to dinner."

"Yes, Master…" May gave a small nod, and they both stood up. Ash took her hand and led her back to the dining room.

The aroma wafting from the kitchen filled the air, inviting and warm. May took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves as she and Ash approached.

"It smells very good..." she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded in agreement.

"Yeah..." he replied, his eyes twinkling as he looked at her. May offered a soft smile, her anxiety momentarily easing. Ash returned the smile, his confidence bolstering her own as he stepped into the dining room. May followed close behind, her steps tentative yet hopeful. Delia was already seated at the dining table, her posture elegant and composed. Ash greeted her with a smile, which she returned with a nod of acknowledgment.

"Glad you both came," she commented. May glanced at Ash nervously, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her dress.

"It's okay," Ash whispered reassuringly, his hand giving hers a gentle squeeze. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself as Ash moved closer to the table, pulling out a chair for May. She sat down timidly, her eyes darting around the room as she tried to compose herself.

"Thank you very much, Brock. Everything looks delicious," Delia said, her voice gracious as she addressed the chef. Brock, ever the respectful servant, bowed deeply.

"You're very welcome, Your Highness," he said before exiting the room. Ash settled into his own seat and faced his mother once more.

"Hello," he greeted his mother softly. Delia glanced at them both, her gaze assessing but not unkind. Ash offered her a small, reassuring smile.

"Shall we begin?" Delia asked, her tone indicating both invitation and command. Ash nodded, and they all began to fill their plates. Delia sampled a bit of everything, her movements measured and deliberate. After a moment, Ash broke the silence.

"So, Mom, I know we can't get a second chance at a first impression... but what do you think?" he asked, his voice filled with earnest curiosity. Delia placed her utensils down and looked at him thoughtfully.

"There's only so much opinion I can draw. I know almost nothing about her," she replied honestly. Ash gave a sheepish smile.

"That's what having dinner together is for," he said, his eyes flicking to May with a mix of encouragement and affection. Delia nodded in agreement and turned her attention to May. The scrutiny made May's pulse quicken, but she felt Ash's reassuring presence beside her. Ash held her hand under the table, his touch grounding her. "Go ahead," he whispered. May swallowed hard, gathering her courage.

"I... I'm many centuries old... but when I was cursed, I was 17..." she began, her voice trembling slightly.

"And cuter than anyone else that age," Ash interjected, his voice light with humor and admiration. May blushed heavily at his words. Ash leaned closer, his eyes filled with affection. "And by that, I mean 17," he added, pecking her gently on the cheek. "She's also picking up a painting hobby."

"A-A little..." she admitted shyly as her blush deepened.

"I see." Delia raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued.

"She's got real talent." Ash nodded enthusiastically.

"Is that so?" Delia asked, her tone still neutral but slightly warmer.

"N-Not really..." May shook her head modestly. Ash gave her an encouraging smile.

"I didn't make those paintings back at the house," he said, stroking her cheek. May's blush returned, but she managed a small, nervous smile. Delia observed them quietly for a moment.

"So you don't physically age then," she stated, her tone curious.

"No, I... I guess I don't..." May shook her head.

"She's also immune to feeling extreme temperatures. Supposedly." Ash chimed in again, his voice filled with admiration. Delia considered this, her expression thoughtful.

"Both could raise some suspicions as time goes on."

"I know, but..." Ash started, his voice trailing off as he searched for the right words. Delia gave a small nod, acknowledging his point.

"Just an observation dear," May swallowed hard, the weight of the conversation pressing on her. Ash held her hand tighter, offering silent support.

"I think it'll lose attention as time goes by," Ash said, his voice firm with determination. Delia nodded again, a small smile playing on her lips.

"I suppose." Ash smiled at May, his eyes filled with warmth. She blushed a little, but managed to return his smile.

"We'll figure it out," he whispered, his confidence in their future unwavering. May nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude and love for Ash.

"Thank you," she whispered back, her heart full. The dinner continued, a delicate dance of conversation and revelation. Delia placed her fork down and looked at May with a contemplative gaze.

"What else should I know?" she asked, her tone gentle but probing.

"Well... um..." May hesitated, searching for the right words. Ash intercepted with a slight look at May, signaling her to hold back. There was no reason to tell his mother everything they had done and risk giving her a heart attack.

"She saved my life in the desert, like I said before," he began, his voice filled with gratitude and admiration. "I was worn out from hours of travel and completely collapsed on the ground. Pikachu and I thought we were goners, but she gave us water just in time. I thought I was dead seeing someone so beautiful in that state. Heheh..." He chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood. May blushed hard at his words, her cheeks turning a deep shade of pink.

"I see." Delia nodded, her expression thoughtful. Ash smiled, giving May's hand another reassuring squeeze.

"From there, I was her Master and she safely took us to the nearest town."

"Surely others noticed her." Delia's eyebrows knitted together in concern.

"Not exactly." Ash shook his head. "No one cared anyway. We were in a country where slaves were legal, after all."

"Yes, but trading slaves others find attractive is a common practice. Given her looks, I wouldn't put it past someone." Delia's frown deepened. Ash's eyes hardened.

"Well, if we're getting married, you know what my response would have been."

"Indeed." Delia nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. May blushed again, her eyes downcast. Ash squeezed her hand once more and then turned to his food. The table fell into a comfortable silence as they ate. After a few moments, Delia spoke again. "Who was she before this curse?"

"You okay talking about your old home?" Ash looked at May, his eyes filled with concern. May hesitated, her eyes flicking to Ash for reassurance. After a moment, she gave a small nod, though it was clearly hesitant.

"I was the oldest of two children... my parents made a decent living... but they stood to be in a much better position if..." She clutched her arms subconsciously, her voice trembling. "If they married me off to a nobleman who was interested in me..."

"That's unfortunate..." Ash winced at the painful memory. Delia remained silent, her gaze softening. May took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions.

"The irony is... I just wanted to prove I wasn't a piece of property that could be traded..."

"That's... really unfortunate..." Ash's expression was pained. Delia's eyes were filled with understanding and sympathy.

"To try and get out of it... I did something really stupid... and it cost me everything..." May continued, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash leaned in, his voice filled with love and reassurance.

"There is a bright side to it at least... never would have met you otherwise..."

"Yeah..." May nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. Ash kissed her gently, his love and support evident in every touch. May blushed but returned his smile, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging.

"How's dinner?" Ash asked, trying to shift the mood to a lighter note.

"It's very good..." May replied, her smile growing a little wider.

"I agree." Ash nodded in agreement.

"Brock is a wonder in the kitchen." Delia's eyes sparkled with amusement.

"I wanna give it a shot myself." Ash grinned.

"Really?" May looked at him in surprise.

"Yeah. Why not?" Ash smiled at her. May gave a small smile, feeling more at ease. They all turned their attention back to their food, the conversation flowing more naturally. Delia finished her plate first, followed by Ash and then May. Ash stretched, looking content. "When will Luna be back?" he asked, referring to his sister.

"I've sent word that she needs to return. If everything goes well, she should be back in a week or so." Delia replied. Ash nodded, a hint of worry in his eyes. "She doesn't know what's been going on. I figured you could explain it better than I could."

"You mean you want me to get an earful for getting married while she's away, without even meeting the bride-to-be?" Ash said, sweatdropping at the thought. Delia laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"She loves you. I'm sure everything will be fine."

"Uh huh..." Ash replied, clearly unconvinced. Delia raised an eyebrow, giving him a stern look. Ash responded with a sheepish smile. Delia flashed him a small smile in return.

"It will be fine."

"Uh huh…" Ash scratched his head, feeling a bit embarrassed. May watched their interaction with a smile, finding comfort in their familial bond. Ash looked at her, his eyes softening. "You're glowing," he said softly.

"I... am...?" May blushed a little, feeling shy. Ash pecked her cheek, making her blush even more.

"Yes, you are." May gave a small smile, feeling overwhelmed with emotion. Ash turned to the table and looked between his mother and his fiancée. "Anything else we need to talk about?"

"I... I think I'm burned out for today..." May shook her head, feeling drained.

"It's fine." Ash nodded understandingly. May stood up from the table, her movements slow and deliberate.

"Thank you for everything, Your Highness," she said to Delia, her voice filled with gratitude.

"You're welcome." Delia nodded graciously. Ash stood up as well, following May to the door. They left the dining room together, their hands intertwined. As they stepped out of the dining room, May turned to Ash, her voice soft and hesitant.

"Master, you don't have to come with me... I'm sure you're eager to enjoy being home..."

"What's wrong, May?" Ash's eyes filled with concern.

"Huh...?" May blinked in surprise.

"Something is bothering you," Ash stated gently.

"N-No, I..." May stammered, but her words trailed off under Ash's steady gaze. She lowered her eyes, unable to meet his.

"May..?" Ash prompted, his voice filled with quiet insistence.

"...I'm fine, really..." May sighed softly. Ash studied her for a moment before nodding.

"Okay..."

"I just need some sleep..." May said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded again. "Goodnight, Master," she said, turning to leave. Ash reached out and took her hand, causing her to look back at him. He pulled her into a gentle hug, his arms wrapping around her protectively. May blushed, feeling the warmth of his embrace.

"Let's go to bed then," Ash whispered.

"But I thought..." May began, her confusion evident.

"You're what matters most to me right now," Ash said, his voice firm yet tender. May blushed deeper, feeling a surge of emotion. "Besides, we just had dinner," Ash added with a small smile.

"Oh..." May replied, a faint smile touching her lips as well. Ash began walking back to his room, and May followed him silently. Once inside, he shut the door behind them. May lay down on the bed, feeling a mixture of nerves and anticipation. Ash lay beside her, his presence comforting. May blushed softly, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash looked at her, his eyes filled with love and affection. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. Ash leaned in and kissed her, the touch of his lips sending a shiver down her spine. She blushed in surprise, but soon kissed him back, her movements tentative but sincere. Ash kissed her softly, his hand gently stroking her cheek. May moaned softly, feeling the intensity of the moment. Ash pulled away slightly, his eyes searching hers. May blushed again, her heart racing.

"I love you," Ash whispered, his voice filled with sincerity. May's eyes glistened with unshed tears.

"I love you too," she replied, her voice trembling with emotion. They lay together in the quiet room, their hearts beating in unison. The night's events had brought them closer, their bond stronger than ever. As they drifted off to sleep, they knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May lay peacefully in bed, the soft glow of morning light filtering through the curtains. She stirred, slowly opening her eyes to find Ash already awake, watching her with a gentle smile. He yawned, stretching out his arms before turning his attention back to her.

"Hey," Ash whispered, his voice tender.

"Hi..." May replied, her voice still groggy with sleep. She shifted her position slightly, feeling the warmth of the bedclothes around her. Ash reached out, stroking her cheek with the back of his fingers. A soft blush crept up May's face at his touch.

"How did you sleep?" he asked, his smile growing wider.

"Good..." she murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips. Ash sat up, offering his hand to her. May accepted it gently, allowing him to help her to her feet. Her blush deepened as he kissed her cheek, his lips warm and reassuring against her skin. Feeling his arms wrap around her, she rested her head against his chest, savoring the closeness.

"Feeling better?" he asked.

"Yeah..." she replied, her voice a soft whisper.

"Good," Ash said, holding her close. May felt her blush intensify as she looked up at him. Their eyes met, and he leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender kiss. She kissed him back, feeling the world melt away around them. A soft moan escaped her lips, echoed by Ash. The moment was broken by a knock at the door, startling May. She pulled away slowly, looking towards the sound in surprise.

"Prince Ash? If you are awake, we have come to clean the room and prepare baths for you both," came the voice of a server from outside.

"H-Huh...?" May stammered, confusion evident in her voice.

"Be right out," he called back to the server. He looked at May, noticing her puzzled expression. "Just cleaning routine."

"Cleaning routine...?" she repeated, still confused.

"They stop by every other morning to tidy up the rooms while we're out," Ash explained.

"W-Why...?" May asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Because it's their job...?" Ash replied, raising an eyebrow.

"I-I'm sure I can do it..." she said, rubbing her arm nervously.

"It's their job. You can relax," Ash insisted gently.

"...I can't order someone else around..." May mumbled, looking down.

"You don't have to," Ash said softly.

"But..." she started.

"But?" Ash prompted.

"...It doesn't feel right..." May admitted.

"Would you rather do for free what someone else is paid for?" Ash asked, his tone both gentle and firm.

"I-I always have…" May whispered, her voice barely audible.

"It's okay..." Ash reassured her. May rubbed her arm, still uncertain. "Besides," Ash continued, "if you did do it, you'd run them out of the job. Pretty sure that would count as negatively impacting people with your magic."

"I...I guess..." she conceded.

"Come on," Ash said, taking her hand.

"Ok..." May agreed, following him out of the room quietly. Ash turned to May as they stepped into the corridor.

"I could go for a bath. You?" he asked, a playful glint in his eye. May blushed heavily at the suggestion, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red.

"U-Um..."

"They said they prepared some for us," Ash continued, trying to ease her discomfort.

"O-Ok..." she stammered, her nervousness evident. Ash scratched his head, feeling a bit awkward himself. May rubbed her arm, a familiar gesture of her anxiety. At that moment, a maid approached them, her demeanor respectful and composed.

"This way, Madam," the maid said, gesturing for May to follow.

"O-Oh...ok..." May replied, her voice small. The maid led her to a private room where a warm bath awaited, steam rising invitingly from the water.

"I will be outside when you are finished, Madam," the maid said with a polite bow before stepping outside.

"Ok..." May murmured, looking at the bath. She hesitated for a moment before reluctantly beginning to remove her outfit, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. As she slipped into the warm water, the tension in her body began to melt away. She allowed herself a moment of relaxation, sinking deeper into the bath, the soothing warmth enveloping her.

Soon after her bath, May dressed again, feeling somewhat refreshed but still apprehensive. The maid waited patiently outside the room, her demeanor professional yet kind.

"Now, Madam, if you come with me, we'll take you for pampering," the maid said, leading her down the corridor.

"P-Pampering...?" May echoed, her voice tinged with anxiety.

"We're preparing a massage, pedicure, hair treatment, and a discussion of your wedding dress as well." The maid nodded. At the mention of the wedding, May's muscles tensed.

"O-Oh..." she managed, her voice barely a whisper.

"Whenever you're ready," the maid said, noticing her hesitation.

"I-I... Th-The bath is plenty, thank you," May stammered, trying to hide her discomfort.

"Madam?" the maid asked, puzzled.

"Really, I'd... rather not..." May insisted, her voice faltering.

"The Queen had it ordered... we should at least discuss the dress," the maid pressed gently.

"Very well..." May sighed, realizing there was no easy way out. The maid nodded and led her to a private room, where more preparations were underway. May followed quietly, her mind racing. Inside the room, a young woman named Dawn was working with other maids, setting up various pampering stations. Dawn looked up and smiled warmly.

"Hi there!" she greeted.

"H-Hi..." May replied, feeling a bit overwhelmed.

"I'm your new Lady-in-Waiting. Pleased to meet you." Dawn curtsied.

"L-Lady in Waiting...?" May repeated, trying to process the information.

"That's right. It's my job to be your personal assistant," Dawn explained, extending her hand. "My name is Dawn."

"...May..." May nervously accepted the handshake.

"Pleasure," Dawn said, guiding her over to a mirror. "No need to worry." May gulped as she timidly sat down.

"Miss Dawn...?" she ventured.

"Care for one?" Dawn held out a bowl of berries.

"N-No thank you... I'm alright..." May declined, blinking in surprise. Dawn shrugged and set the bowl aside. "May I ask you something?" May continued.

"Of course," Dawn replied, her smile encouraging.

"...Are you married?" May asked hesitantly.

"A lady-in-waiting needs consent from her mistress to be married," Dawn explained.

"Oh..." May said softly.

"But I have wanted to be," Dawn added with a nod.

"You... have someone?" May inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"Yup." Dawn nodded again. "Sir Kenny, a palace guard."

"I see..." May murmured.

"Why do you ask?" Dawn prompted gently.

"...I have a phobia of marriage..." May admitted, her voice barely audible.

"Oh..?" Dawn said, her interest piqued.

"...I was hoping to get someone else's perspective..." May explained, looking down.

"Do you love the prince?" Dawn asked, her tone thoughtful.

"Yes..." May answered truthfully.

"Then I don't think you have anything to worry about," Dawn said, smiling warmly.

"It can't be that simple..." May replied, shaking her head.

"Sure it is. All that matters is that you want to be with him. Then you just enjoy yourself on the day. Voila, you're married," Dawn said with a chuckle.

"...That's not a marriage though..." May insisted.

"What's the trouble?" Dawn asked, her expression growing serious.

"A marriage is a lifelong commitment to someone... which can break apart at any point…" May explained, her voice tinged with fear.

"Are you afraid of how he'll treat you?" Dawn asked gently.

"...I don't think so..." May said, shaking her head.

"Is it being Queen?" Dawn suggested.

"...I guess that could be part of it..." May admitted.

"Only part of it?" Dawn probed.

"I don't know... I'm just full of a near-paralyzing fear..." May confessed.

"You look like you could use that massage," Dawn said, her tone sympathetic.

"O-Oh... no no I couldn't..." May protested weakly.

"Nonsense. I won't have it," Dawn said firmly. May looked up at her, feeling a glimmer of hope. "No need to worry. Dawn has you covered!" Dawn declared with a smile.

"O... Ok..." May agreed, her voice trembling slightly. Dawn guided her to the relaxation table and gently laid her down.

"Just relax," she instructed. May tried to take a deep breath, her heart still pounding. Dawn began massaging her shoulders, her touch skillful and soothing.

"Just breathe," Dawn whispered, her hands working to ease the tension from May's body. May closed her eyes, focusing on the rhythm of Dawn's movements. Slowly, she felt the anxiety begin to ebb away, replaced by a sense of calm. May tried to take a deep breath, the tension still lingering in her body. "There you go," Dawn encouraged, her voice soothing.

"It just feels wrong..." May admitted.

"Want me to move spots?" Dawn asked, misinterpreting her discomfort.

"I meant being waited upon..." May clarified.

"Oh... right... you were a slave, weren't you?" Dawn asked, her voice filled with sudden understanding.

"I am a slave…" May corrected softly.

"But... Ash is marrying you. Why doesn't he just free you?" Dawn asked, confused.

"He can't..." May replied, her tone firm.

"Sure he can. All he has to do—" Dawn started, but May interrupted.

"I assure you he can't..." May insisted.

"Why not..?" Dawn asked, still puzzled.

"Just trust me..." May said, a hint of desperation in her voice.

"Miss May..." Dawn hesitated, then nodded. "Well, there's no reason why you can't have it easy," Dawn said, offering a tiny smile. "Think of this as a reward for your hard work."

"I haven't ever done anything worth all this..." May murmured.

"Sure you have," Dawn said, her voice kind and reassuring. She rubbed May's arms, trying to ease the lingering tension. "You saved the Prince's life. That alone is worthy of celebration and reward. Roll onto your stomach," she instructed gently. May did as she was told, her movements tentative. Dawn began to work on her upper back, her hands skilled and patient. May tried another deep breath, feeling some of the tension begin to melt away.

"You're... pretty good..." she said, her voice soft.

"Thank you," Dawn replied with a smile, continuing her work. May gave a small nod, her body slowly relaxing under Dawn's touch. Dawn moved lower, working her bare back with care and precision. "How is that?" Dawn asked after a while.

"Good..." May answered, her voice more relaxed than before. Dawn continued to work on her back, her touch soothing and methodical. "Mm..." May murmured, feeling a genuine sense of relaxation.

"There you go," Dawn said, smiling as she saw May finally taking a genuine deep breath.

"I suppose..." May conceded, a hint of a smile on her lips. "Thank you," May said, her voice filled with gratitude. Dawn smiled warmly, pleased to see May more at ease. However, just as May was beginning to relax, a new woman entered the room, her energy bright and cheerful.

"Okay! Let's get your measurements!" she announced, causing May to lift her head in surprise.

"Huh?" May blinked, momentarily taken aback.

"My name is Lisia! I'm gonna be working on your dress," the woman smiled warmly.

"Oh... thank you..." May replied, a hint of apprehension in her voice.

"My pleasure." Lisia curtsied respectfully. "Tell me, did you want something with more modesty or something similar to what you have now?"

"I... I don't mind showing a bit... but I'd like to try and... steer clear of... this style... this style does not bring happy feelings..." May admitted, her voice trailing off as she gestured to her slave garb.

"Sure." Lisia nodded understandingly. "Can you stand up for me?" May got off the table and stood up, feeling a bit nervous. "Stretch your arms," Lisia instructed. May did as she was told, trying to remain as still as possible while Lisia took her measurements. She watched as Lisia wrote everything down meticulously. "Alright! So a new style, huh?" Lisia said with a smile.

"Y-Yeah…" May gave a small nod.

"First thing's first then. Standard wedding dress color is white. Are you happy with that?" Lisia asked.

"Yes..." May answered quietly.

"Okay." Lisia nodded. "What do you say to a fancy new veil?"

"I-If you wish..." May replied, feeling overwhelmed by all the choices.

"It's your dress, deary," Lisia reminded her gently.

"I guess…" May said, still unsure. Lisia smiled reassuringly and began drawing a veil design. May folded her hands, watching intently.

"Are you thinking that you want it soft as possible, or did you want a bit of vibrance?" Lisia asked.

"Vibrance...?" May echoed, not entirely sure what she meant.

"Some silks really pop out, but they're less soft," Lisia explained.

"I... I suppose comfort should be key..." May decided.

"I agree." Lisia nodded. "Would you like anything special on it?"

"N-No... I think it should be simple..." May said, feeling more confident in her preference.

"You sure?" Lisia asked, wanting to be certain.

"I've... grown an attachment to simpler things..." May nodded.

"You've got it." Lisia smiled warmly.

"Thank you..." May said quietly. Lisia hugged her briefly, and May blushed a little at the unexpected affection.

"I'll bring you my design later this afternoon, and if you approve, I'll get to work immediately."

"Ok..." May agreed. Dawn, who had been watching quietly, held up the fruit bowl again, sensing May needed to de-stress again. "O-Oh no I'm ok…"

"C'mon. It's just fruit," she said with a smile.

"R-Really I don't... need anything special..." May hesitated.

"It's fruit, not the key to the universe," Dawn said with a chuckle.

"...Ok... " May timidly accepted another piece, eating it quietly.

"Was that so hard?" Dawn smiled approvingly.

"It's just hard..." May confessed. Dawn ruffled her hair playfully, causing May to blush a little more. Dawn smiled warmly.

"Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"No..." May replied softly.

"Then... shall I bring you to your Master?" Dawn asked gently. May gave a small nod.

"Thank you..."

"Of course." Dawn nodded and led her away. May followed Dawn, feeling a mix of gratitude and nervousness. Dawn walked her to Ash's room, the corridor seeming longer with each step. As they reached the door, Dawn knocked gently on the door. It opened swiftly, revealing Ash on the other side.

"You look beautiful," he said, his smile warm and sincere. May blushed a little, feeling her cheeks grow hot.

"Th-Thank you..." she stammered. Dawn curtsied gracefully and received a small smile from May in return before departing quietly, leaving the couple alone. May stepped inside Ash's room, feeling a mixture of comfort and anxiety.

"How are you?" Ash asked, concern evident in his voice.

"Overwhelmed..." May admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash immediately wrapped her in a comforting hug. She blushed at the close contact, but the tension began to ease from her body.

"That help?" he asked softly. May nodded, feeling safer in his arms. "I was going to see if you wanted to check out the garden," Ash suggested, his eyes meeting hers.

"Okay." May gave a small nod, her interest piqued. Ash smiled, taking her hand gently.

"Alright," he said, leading her towards the door. May blushed softly, feeling a flutter of excitement as they headed out of the room together.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Ash gently led May out into the gardens, the evening air cool and fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers. They walked side by side, the quiet rustling of the leaves in the gentle breeze the only sound accompanying them. Ash inhaled deeply, savoring the fresh air, and May instinctively followed his lead, a small smile playing on her lips as she mirrored his contentment.

"It's lovely..." May's voice was soft, filled with a quiet wonder as she took in the serene surroundings.

"Yeah?" Ash asked, his tone equally soft, as if not wanting to disturb the tranquility of the moment. May simply nodded in response. "Come on," he said, a spark of excitement in his eyes, "I want to show you my favorite spot." May followed him as he led her to a patch of tulips, their vibrant colors standing out against the deep green of the garden. Ash knelt down beside the flowers, his gaze affectionate as he admired them. "I think these are really nice," he said, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

"They're beautiful," May agreed, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash's smile widened.

"They'd be even more beautiful if one was in your hair." May's cheeks flushed a soft pink at his words, and she watched as Ash carefully picked a tulip. His movements were gentle, almost reverent, as he tucked the flower into her hair. May's blush deepened, and she gave him a shy smile.

"Th-Thank you..." she murmured, her voice laced with a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. Ash's smile was warm as he replied.

"Of course." He pulled her into a tender hug, his arms wrapping around her as if to shield her from the world. "Anything to put a smile on your face." May's heart fluttered at his words, her blush intensifying as she let herself relax into his embrace. They sat down together on the soft grass, side by side, Ash's arm still wrapped around her. The comfortable silence between them was broken only by the sound of the nearby fountain, its gentle splashing adding to the peaceful ambiance.

"Master...?" May's voice was hesitant, almost as if she was afraid to disturb the moment.

"Yeah?" Ash replied, his tone reassuring. May hesitated for a moment before finally speaking again.

"...I love you..." she confessed. Ash's smile was tender as he replied to her.

"I love you too..." He ran a finger along her waist, and May shivered at his touch, her body responding to the gentle caress. Ash leaned back, listening to the soothing sound of the fountain, and let the cool breeze wash over him. May, still blushing, looked up at him with a small smile. "Like this?" he asked.

"It's quiet... A good place to think." May nodded. May gave a small nod in agreement, a contented smile gracing her lips. They sat in silence for a while longer, simply enjoying each other's presence.

After a while, Ash sat up and looked to May, gently, who looked back at him once she felt his position shift.

"You ready to get up, or do you want to rest a while?" he asked softly.

"...I am enjoying the quiet…" May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash nodded, understanding her need for peace.

"Alright," he said softly. May fidgeted with one of the tulips, her fingers gently brushing the delicate petals. Ash leaned over and kissed her cheek, causing her to blush once more. "Hey, May?" he asked, his voice gentle.

"Yes Master…?" She looked at him, her eyes curious.

"If it's too off-putting for you, you don't have to call me by name just because we're getting married... You can keep calling me 'Master' if that's more comfortable for you."

"Really…? But you said before..." May looked down, her expression thoughtful. Ash smiled gently.

"If it's easier on you, then I don't mind... I don't want to stress you out," he assured her.

"...Thank you…" she whispered, her voice filled with relief.

"Of course..." Ash nodded, his smile reassuring. May hesitated before speaking again, her voice filled with guilt.

"...I'm sorry..."

"What for?" Ash's expression softened as he asked.

"...I know my title for you bothers you..." she admitted, her voice barely audible. Ash leaned in and kissed her, a gesture meant to comfort.

"I've come to accept it as a term of endearment." May blushed a little, touched by his words. Ash kissed her again, this time with a deeper passion, and she found herself kissing him back, their lips moving in sync. Ash moaned softly against her mouth, and May responded in kind, their shared sounds of pleasure filling the quiet garden. As the kiss deepened, Ash gently poked her lips with his tongue, seeking entry. May allowed him in, their tongues intertwining in a slow, sensual dance. The taste of him, the feel of him, sent shivers down her spine, and she moaned into the kiss, lost in the moment. Ash explored her mouth, savoring every sensation. He pulled away eventually, both of them breathless, their foreheads resting against each other as they caught their breath.

"Thank you, Master..." May whispered, her voice soft and sincere.

"Hm?" Ash looked at her, his expression curious.

"It felt nice..." she admitted, a small smile playing on her lips. Ash smiled back, his fingers gently stroking her chin. May's blush deepened at his touch, her heart racing in her chest. Ash held her close, and she rested her head against him, feeling safe and cherished in his arms. A smile remained glued to Ash's face as he ran his fingers along her stomach, his touch light and teasing. May shivered under his hand, her body reacting to the gentle caress.

"Take it easy..." he murmured, his voice soothing as he continued his tender exploration. May shivered again, his touch sending waves of warmth through her body. She closed her eyes, allowing herself to relax completely in his embrace, the world around them fading away as they lost themselves in each other.

Soon after, Ash led May down the long, dimly lit hall, their footsteps echoing softly against the stone walls. The air was thick with the smell of cooking food, and Ash glanced over his shoulder at May, who was quietly following him.

"Hungry?" he asked, his tone casual as he tried to strike up a conversation. May hesitated for a moment before replying.

"I could eat…" Her voice was soft, almost uncertain. Ash suddenly realized his mistake and felt a bead of sweat form at his temple.

"Oh. Right. You don't need food, do you?" he said, chuckling nervously at his own blunder. May shook her head, a small smile of amusement tugging at her lips.

"Sorry…" she murmured, her eyes darting to the floor.

"Nothing to fret about." Ash quickly shook his head, brushing off her apology with a gentle smile. May rubbed her arm, her nervousness palpable as she followed Ash towards the dining hall. He glanced at her, noticing her slight unease, and decided to lighten the mood. "Alright. Let's go have lunch," he said, his tone warm and inviting. May nodded a little, following him as they made their way towards the dining hall. The rich aroma of freshly cooked food grew stronger with each step, and Ash's smile widened as they approached the kitchen. May stayed close to him, her small frame almost hidden in his shadow as they entered.

"Hey, Ash, May. Good to see you." Brock greeted them.

"Hey, Brock? What's on the menu?" Ash called out as they stepped into the bustling kitchen. Busy with the final preparations, Brock looked up with a smile.

"So far, rice balls and stew are ready," he replied, his voice tinged with pride.

"Ooh," Ash said, his eyes lighting up with excitement.

"The rest should be ready soon," Brock added, returning to his work.

"Sweet," Ash replied with a grin. "Thanks." He turned to leave, guiding May out of the kitchen. As they walked back to the dining hall, Ash guided May to a seat, pulling out a chair for her. She sat down quietly, her eyes flitting around the room as she took in her surroundings. Ash sat beside her, his presence warm and reassuring. May blushed a little, her cheeks tinged with pink as she glanced at him. Ash noticed and smiled, his gaze soft and affectionate. He reached out and took her hand, his fingers intertwining with hers. May returned the gesture, her grip gentle yet firm. "Look at you," Ash said, his voice full of admiration.

"Huh…?" May blinked in surprise.

"You're awfully cute when you smile," Ash teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief. May blushed deeper, her face now a vivid shade of red.

"O-Oh…"

"It's good to see you reciprocating openly," Ash continued, his tone sincere.

"I'm trying anyway…" May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash smiled, squeezing her hand gently.

"I appreciate it." May smiled a little, her confidence growing under his affectionate gaze. Ash leaned in and kissed her, a brief but tender touch of lips that sent a shiver down her spine. She kissed him back, her heart fluttering in her chest. When he pulled away, May was left blushing, her mind swirling with the warmth of the moment. Brock entered the room, carrying a tray of food. He served the dishes with practiced ease, placing them on the table before stepping back. "Thank you," Ash said, his voice filled with gratitude.

"My pleasure," Brock replied with a smile. Ash glanced at the food, then back at Brock.

"You know, I'd be happy to help you out sometime." Brock chuckled, shaking his head.

"Oh, it's no trouble, Your Majesty."

"I'd at least like to give it a shot at some point." Ash's expression softened, his eyes earnest.

"What's brought this on?" Brock raised an eyebrow, curious.

"Being cast into the wilderness kinda meant I had to practice." Ash scratched his head, a sheepish grin on his face. Brock laughed, understanding dawning on his face.

"I see."

"Besides, I wanted to do something for her." Ash's gaze shifted to May, his smile growing softer. Brock followed his gaze, his eyes landing on May, who was blushing softly under their scrutiny.

"I see." Brock smiled knowingly and nodded. Ash nodded back, his expression one of quiet determination. "I'm sure we can arrange something then," Brock said, his voice full of promise.

"Great!" Ash smiled gratefully, and Brock returned the gesture before heading off to tend to other duties. Ash turned his attention back to May, who was still blushing softly. He smiled at her, his heart swelling with affection. She smiled back, the warmth of his gaze making her feel safe and cherished. "Alright. Let's eat," Ash said, his voice filled with contentment.

"Yes, Master." May nodded, her small smile mirroring his as they prepared to enjoy their meal together. Ash reached for his food with a contented sigh, while May delicately picked a few pieces from the spread in front of them. Ash grabbed a rice ball, his expression brightening as he took a bite. May followed suit, sampling one of the rice balls herself. "They're very good," May commented, her voice laced with quiet appreciation.

"Mhm," Ash agreed, his mouth too full to say much more. He continued eating with gusto, clearly enjoying the meal. May finished her rice ball, glancing over at him with a small smile. Ash noticed and smiled back. "Like it?"

"Yes, Master." May nodded, her eyes reflecting the simple pleasure of sharing a meal together.

"Good," Ash replied, satisfaction evident in his tone. May gave a small smile in return, her demeanor relaxed in the warm atmosphere. Ash then decided to try the stew, dipping his spoon into the bowl. As soon as the rich flavor hit his taste buds, his eyes lit up. "Mm!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm catching May's attention. She looked over curiously, her interest piqued by his reaction. "Awesome!" Ash declared, grinning from ear to ear. May couldn't help but smile a little, his excitement infectious. Ash noticed her smile and grinned back, clearly pleased that she was enjoying herself. "Try the stew," Ash encouraged, gesturing to the bowl in front of her.

"Alright." May poured some stew into her bowl and took a tentative bite. The warm, savory flavors spread across her palate, and she found herself nodding in approval. "It is good also," she agreed.

"Yep!" Ash replied, his grin widening at her enjoyment. May smiled softly, the warmth of the moment making her feel at ease. Ash's grin remained as he watched her, his happiness evident in the way his eyes sparkled. May couldn't help but giggle a little, her laughter light and melodic. "What's so funny?" Ash asked, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

"I just... enjoy your passion for something so simple," May admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly as she spoke.

"I like food. What can I say?" Ash chuckled, shaking his head with amusement.

"It's... a fun trait," May replied, her voice gentle as she expressed her admiration.

"Aw," Ash responded, touched by her words. May's blush deepened, but she didn't look away, her small smile growing as she saw the affection in his eyes. Ash smiled back, the connection between them deepening with each shared moment. Ash chuckled softly, the warmth of the moment wrapping around them like a cozy blanket. May, feeling a surge of affection, scooted a little closer to him, seeking the comfort of his presence. Ash's smile grew even softer as she moved closer, and he reached out to gently brush a strand of hair behind her ear. "Hey."

"Hey…" May smiled back, her eyes shining with quiet happiness as they sat together, the world outside fading away as they basked in each other's company. Ash wrapped his arms around May, pulling her into a gentle embrace. She relaxed into his hold, resting comfortably in his arms. "When it's quiet like this… it's not so overwhelming to be here," May whispered, her voice soft and content.

"Glad to hear it." Ash smiled softly at her words, his heart swelling with affection. May snuggled in closer, seeking the warmth and comfort of his embrace. He held her tighter, his touch reassuring and protective. May closed her eyes, letting the rhythm of his heartbeat soothe her. She listened intently, her body relaxing further with each steady thump. Ash felt his cheeks warm with a blush as he realized just how close they were, but he couldn't help but feel content. A small smile tugged at May's lips as she nestled deeper into his arms. Ash leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to her temple, the gesture filled with quiet affection. May smiled again, her face softening as she continued to listen to his heartbeat, the steady rhythm becoming a source of comfort.

"Mm…" she murmured against him. Ash breathed slowly, the calm of the moment enveloping them both.

"You're cute," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. May blushed at the compliment, her cheeks tinged with pink. Ash's fingers gently ran through her hair, the soft strands slipping through his fingertips like silk. May hummed in contentment, her body melting into his touch. As Ash relaxed, May snuggled even closer, feeling a sense of safety in his arms that she hadn't known before. His smile grew warmer, his heart full of love for the woman in his embrace. May's small smile mirrored his, their connection deepening with each passing second. Ash leaned in and gave her a quick, tender peck on the lips. May responded with a peck of her own, their soft kisses a quiet affirmation of their growing bond. Ash rested his head against hers, feeling utterly at peace in her presence.

"Thank you, Master…" May whispered, her voice full of gratitude.

"Of course, I've gotcha…" Ash replied, his tone reassuring as he held her close.

"It feels good…" May said, her voice filled with quiet contentment.

"I'm glad," Ash responded, his heart swelling with affection for her. May's smile grew softer as she nestled closer to him. Ash couldn't resist snuggling with her, the simple act bringing them both a sense of peace and joy. May giggled a little, the sound light and musical in the quiet room. Ash smiled, his heart light with happiness. "Boop," he said playfully as he tapped her nose with a fingertip.

"Eep!" May blushed in surprise, her eyes widening slightly as she looked up at him in confusion. Ash grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. May quickly recovered, a smile spreading across her face as she realized he was just being playful. Ash leaned in and nuzzled her affectionately, earning another giggle from May. Her laughter was infectious, and Ash couldn't help but smile even wider. Blushing softly, May gazed up at him, her eyes shining with love.

"I love you," Ash whispered, his voice full of sincerity. May's heart fluttered as she looked into his eyes.

"I love you too…" she whispered back, her voice filled with warmth and affection. Ash slowly sat up, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled over them. May looked up at him, her eyes curious.

"Alright," Ash said, his voice light but with a hint of reluctance.

"Huh?" May asked, not quite sure what he meant.

"Did you want to snuggle all day or…?" Ash teased, a playful glint in his eyes.

"...It might be nice…" May quietly admitted. Ash chuckled softly, finding her honesty endearing. May couldn't help but smile a little in return, the warmth of the moment still lingering between them. "Unless you have other things to attend to…" May added, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Ash considered for a moment, then sighed.

"Probably...I am a Prince again," he admitted reluctantly.

"Oh…" May's voice dropped slightly, disappointment flickering in her eyes. Noticing her reaction, Ash reached out and gently stroked her cheek, causing a faint blush to color her face.

"There's always tonight," he offered with a reassuring smile.

"Tonight…?" May repeated, her cheeks growing warmer.

"Yeah," Ash confirmed, his smile widening. "There's always cuddling in bed." May's blush deepened at the thought, her heart fluttering.

"O-Okay…" she stammered, the idea both thrilling and a little overwhelming. With a nod, Ash slowly let go of her, allowing her to settle back down. May watched him as he moved, a small smile still on her lips. May rubbed her arm, still feeling a bit self-conscious. Ash noticed and leaned in to kiss her gently. She responded, her heart lifting at the affectionate gesture. When they pulled apart, Ash smiled at her, and May, blushing, smiled back. Ash then sat up fully, readying himself to return to his meal. May watched him, dabbing her mouth with a napkin as she tried to collect her thoughts. Ash finished his food, his demeanor content and unhurried. May smiled a little as she observed him. "You really have to go…?" she asked, her voice soft with lingering hope. Ash sighed lightly and nodded.

"I should at least check in with my mom," he explained, though his tone was gentle.

"Okay…" May murmured, her gaze dropping to the floor. Noticing her shift in mood, Ash reached out and gently lifted her chin, meeting her eyes with his own.

"Chin up… okay?" he said softly. May nodded, though her blush remained.

"Yeah… I'll be okay," she assured him, though her voice held a note of uncertainty.

"I know you will," Ash said with a small, confident smile. He leaned in and pecked her lips softly, the gesture simple but filled with warmth. May blushed again, feeling a mixture of emotions as she watched him stand up to leave. She followed him with her eyes as he headed toward the door, her heart heavy with the thought of him leaving, even if only for a little while. As Ash left the room, May let out a quiet sigh, her thoughts still lingering on their time together. The warmth of his presence lingered, but the space beside her suddenly felt too empty.

Ash wandered through the halls of the castle, his eyes scanning each room in search of his mother. The palace was abuzz with activity, decorators moving about with purpose, draping fabrics, arranging flowers, and adjusting lighting. He finally spotted Delia, his mother, in the ballroom, directing the decorators with a keen eye for detail.

"Mom?" Ash called out, approaching her. Delia turned to face him, a warm smile spreading across her face.

"Good afternoon, dear."

"Am I needed anywhere today?" Ash asked, trying to mask his uncertainty.

"I'm sure you have a number of things to do pertaining to the wedding," Delia replied, her tone both gentle and teasing.

"Heh..." Ash laughed nervously.

"Decorations, vows, clothing," Delia continued, listing off tasks with a knowing look.

"Yeah, I figured as much..." Ash said, scratching the back of his head.

"Just to name a few," Delia added with a wink. Ash hesitated, then continued after a deep breath.

"I have a big question though..."

"Which is?" Delia prompted, her expression curious.

"What happened to Gary?" Ash asked, his voice serious.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

"We haven't had his trial yet," Delia answered, her smile fading slightly.

"I see..." Ash muttered, his mind racing with thoughts.

"You, of course, have the option to attend," Delia offered, watching him closely.

"Just say when." Ash nodded, absorbing the information.

"In a few days," Delia replied. She then stepped forward to hug him. Ash hugged her back, finding comfort in the familiar embrace. "I love you," Delia whispered, her voice filled with emotion.

"I love you too," Ash replied softly, holding her a little tighter. Delia smiled softly, pulling back to ruffle his hair affectionately.

"I've missed you very much..."

"Mooom..." Ash groaned, a hint of a smile on his lips.

"It's true," Delia insisted, her eyes twinkling with affection. Ash muttered something under his breath, looking away. "Hm?" Delia asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Nothing," Ash said quickly.

"Well, would you like to help decorate the ballroom before you go?" Delia asked, changing the subject.

"Sure," Ash agreed, shrugging.

"Did you have a particular vision in mind?" Delia inquired, curious about his ideas.

"Uh...I dunno," Ash admitted, feeling a bit embarrassed.

"Nothing?" Delia asked, sweatdropping at his lack of input.

"She's shy about the ordeal. And I never thought about wedding plans until it came up so…Heh..." Ash explained, chuckling nervously. Delia sweatdropped as well, shaking her head.

"You two are very...indecisive about the details, it seems..." she commented. Ash gave another nervous chuckle, scratching his head. "I'll see what I can do then," Delia said, a determined look on her face.

"We can always talk about it," Ash suggested, trying to be helpful.

"I suppose that's true." Delia nodded. Ash nodded in agreement. "I'm available most of the week," Delia offered, giving him a reassuring smile.

"Sounds good." Ash nodded again, feeling a bit more at ease. Delia smiled and turned back to the decorators.

"Please be careful with that! It was my mother's!" she called out, her voice filled with concern. Ash sweatdropped as he watched her run off to help the decorators before something got broken. He stood there for a moment, taking in the bustling scene, before deciding to walk away and find his next task.

Later that afternoon, Ash wandered through the halls, his thoughts drifting. Eventually, he found himself in a quiet room where May stood, gazing out of a large window that overlooked the kingdom. The view was breathtaking, the sun casting a warm glow over the landscape, but Ash's attention was entirely on May.

"Hey," Ash greeted softly as he approached her. May turned, a gentle smile forming on her lips.

"Oh. Hi." Without a word, Ash reached for her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. May blushed slightly, the warmth of his touch spreading through her.

"Miss me?" Ash asked, a playful glint in his eyes. May nodded, her blush deepening. Ash pulled her into a hug, holding her close. She wrapped her arms around him, feeling comforted by his embrace. "Better?" Ash whispered, his breath tickling her ear.

"Yes, Master." May nodded again, her heart beating a little faster.

"Good," Ash murmured before pecking her softly on the lips. May's blush intensified, and she looked down, a shy smile tugging at her lips. Ash smiled back, his eyes full of affection. She held him close, her heart swelling with love. Ash leaned in and kissed her again, this time lingering a bit longer. May responded, her hands resting on his chest. He gently stroked her cheek, and she let out a soft moan, her eyes fluttering open to meet his. Ash looked deeply into her eyes, smiling warmly. May blushed heavily, but managed to return his smile.

"My mom wants to know what the decoration plan is," Ash said, breaking the silence.

"Decoration plan...?" May echoed, a bit confused.

"For the wedding," Ash clarified.

"O-Oh..." May stammered, feeling a bit overwhelmed.

"Do you want anything to remind you of your old home?" Ash asked gently.

"...There is nothing left of that place..." May looked away, her expression turning somber.

"Even so," Ash pressed, his voice soft and understanding.

"I'd be amazed if anything survived..." May said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"That doesn't mean nothing would remind you of it," Ash pointed out gently.

"Even I don't remember much..." May admitted, a hint of sadness in her eyes. Ash nodded, understanding the weight of her words.

"It's okay," he reassured her. May looked up at him, her eyes searching his. He held her close, and she blushed softly, finding solace in his embrace.

"Here. You needed this," Ash said quietly, his words filled with meaning.

"This...?" May repeated, her voice trembling slightly. Ash held her even closer, his presence reassuring.

"This," he confirmed with a tender smile. May's blush deepened, but she smiled a little, feeling more at ease. Ash's smile widened, and he said, "So, you know what else would be fun to think about?"

"What...?" May asked, curious.

"Our cake," Ash replied, a mischievous smile on his lips.

"Oh..." May said, a small smile forming.

"I guess I just have a sweet tooth on the brain. Heheh," Ash chuckled. "How about we save that for tomorrow?"

"Ok...I can do that, I think..." May smiled a little more, feeling a bit lighter.

"Done deal then." Ash's happiness was contagious, and she found herself smiling back at him. He leaned in and pecked her lips again. May pecked back, her heart fluttering. They stood there for a moment, exchanging smiles and silent promises, before Ash walked over to the bed, his eyes never leaving May. She watched him closely, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness. When he motioned for her to come over, she obeyed without hesitation. He pulled her into his arms, holding her close. May blushed, feeling the warmth of his body against hers. Ash leaned in and kissed her, and she responded eagerly, her lips moving in sync with his. Gently, Ash laid her down on the bed. May's blush deepened as she felt the soft sheets beneath her.

"Master-" He kissed her again, his lips tender yet insistent. She kissed him back, her hands reaching up to touch his face. Ash stroked her cheek, eliciting a soft moan from her. He moaned back, the sound vibrating against her lips. Their kisses grew more passionate, each one more intense than the last. May pulled away for air, her breaths coming in short, rapid bursts. Ash looked at her, his eyes filled with love and desire. She blushed under his gaze, feeling the intensity of his emotions. He kissed her again, deeper this time, his tongue exploring her mouth. May moaned louder, the sensation overwhelming her. Ash moaned back, their sounds mingling in the air. May began to relax, her body responding to his touch. He played with her tongue, teasing her until she moaned even louder. She squeezed his hand, needing to hold onto something. Ash pushed his tongue deeper into her mouth, and May moaned loudly, her back arching slightly off the bed. He moaned back, matching her intensity. When she pulled away for air, he smiled, his expression soft and loving.

"I love you," Ash whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.

"I love you, too," May replied, her eyes shining with emotion. Ash stroked her hair, his fingers gentle and soothing. May smiled a little, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. He moved his hand to her stomach, stroking it lightly. She shivered at the touch, her body reacting instinctively. He kissed her again, and she kissed him back, feeling more connected to him than ever. Ash smiled against her lips, and May moaned softly, the sound a mix of pleasure and contentment. When he pulled away, she was panting softly, her breaths mingling with his. Ash nuzzled her, his nose brushing against hers. She giggled a little, the sound light and carefree.

"Cute laugh," Ash said, his smile bright and genuine. May blushed, her cheeks tinged with pink.

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible. Ash nodded, his eyes twinkling with affection. May smiled a little, feeling the warmth of his love surrounding her. In that moment, everything else faded away, and it was just the two of them, lost in their own world as their clothes were cast aside.

As the morning sun cast its gentle light into the room, Ash turned to May, who was still nestled in the comforter.

"What do you think of your new home?" he asked, curiosity in his voice.

"It's certainly a lot to take in..." May sighed softly.

"Heh..." Ash chuckled.

"Being pampered, I'm not sure will ever be anything but uncomfortable for me..." May admitted, a slight frown on her face.

"May..." Ash began, a note of concern in his voice.

"But there are...nice people here," May added quickly, trying to reassure him. Ash gave a small smile.

"I'm glad to hear that."

"I'm still not a fan of the crowds and excitement...but I know they mean well..." May continued, her voice soft.

"Didn't stop you yesterday," Ash said with a wink.

"Huh...?" May looked at him, puzzled.

"Don't you remember throwing yourself at me?" Ash teased, a cheeky smile on his lips. May's face turned bright red.

"I-I..."

"In front of aaaaaall those people," Ash added, enjoying her reaction. May blushed harder, covering her face with her hands.

"I-It's just..."

"You're adorable." Ash couldn't help but laugh. May buried her face in the comforter, trying to hide her embarrassment. Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek. "You're cute." May's blush deepened, and she mumbled something into the comforter as Ash stroked her hair gently. "I love you."

"I love you too..." May replied, her voice muffled.

"Even though I tease?" Ash asked, his tone playful. May nodded, peeking out from behind the comforter. Ash smiled warmly. "Are you gonna look at me or hide in pillows all day?" May peered out a little more. "There she is!" Ash exclaimed, scooting closer. May watched him with a shy smile. "Hello," he said softly.

"Hi..." May replied, her blush returning. Ash pulled the sheet down a little, revealing more of her face.

"Peekaboo," he said with a grin. May blushed harder but couldn't help but smile. Ash leaned in and kissed her, and she kissed him back, her hands reaching up to touch his face. He stroked her cheek, and she let out a soft moan, their kisses deepening. Ash smiled, pulling back slightly. "I love you," he said again.

"I love you too..." May responded, her voice filled with emotion. They sat in silence for a moment, just enjoying each other's presence. Ash finally sat up and stretched, his muscles protesting the movement. May glanced at him, her smile returning.

"Well, there's more work to do," Ash said with a sigh.

"Oh..." May replied, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

"I would love to have you with me..." Ash said, his eyes earnest.

"I-I don't know..." May hesitated, uncertainty in her eyes. Ash looked at her, his gaze steady. "I can...try..." May offered, her voice tentative. Ash opened his arms, inviting her in. May hesitated for a moment before leaning into his arms, feeling his warmth surround her. Ash held her close, kissing her cheek gently. May smiled a little, her anxiety easing.

"I love you," Ash whispered.

"I love you too," May replied, snuggling closer. They held each other for a while longer, drawing strength and comfort from each other. Ash held May close, his eyes filled with a tender warmth.

"Something seems to be changing my mind," he murmured softly.

"Huh...?" May looked up at him, confusion mingling with curiosity in her gaze. Ash tightened his embrace, pulling her even closer.

"Someone has me trapped with their adorable eyes instead of letting me get to work," he confessed, his voice laced with affection. May's cheeks turned a deep shade of red.

"You're making me blush..." Ash chuckled, the sound deep and comforting.

"That's the idea," he teased gently. May couldn't help but smile a little, the corners of her lips curling upwards. Ash leaned in and kissed her, their lips meeting in a sweet, tender embrace. She kissed him back, her hands resting against his chest. Ash let out a soft moan, the sound vibrating through her. She moaned back, their emotions and desires intermingling. He kissed her more softly this time, savoring the moment. May's moan was softer, more content. He shifted, pulling her into his lap. May's blush intensified, her heart racing. "I love you," Ash whispered, his eyes locked onto hers.

"I love you too..." May replied, her voice barely audible, yet filled with sincerity. Without another word, Ash lifted her bridal style, his arms strong and steady. He carried her out of the room to get cleaned up, each step taken with care. May blushed heavily, her head resting against his shoulder, feeling safe and cherished in his embrace.

Many miles away, in the middle of the ever-present desert, a man and what seemed to be his crew conversed with a member of a caravan Ash and May had once defended.

"And he had a slave with him?" he inquired, his voice cold and calculating.

"Yes, he did." The traveler nodded.

"Scantily clad in an orange dress?" the man pressed.

"With some pink and gold, yes," the traveler confirmed. The man's eyes gleamed with interest.

"Very interesting..."

"If that's all," the traveler said, eager to be on his way.

"Indeed," he replied, dismissing the traveler with a wave. He turned sharply, his cloak billowing around him. "Galen. Prepare the ship to make for Pallet Kingdom."

"Yes, sir," Galen responded promptly. The man's eyes narrowed as he spoke, his voice filled with a dark resolve.

"There are two types of men in this world. Those who have their most precious belongings taken from them, and those who do the taking."

"Yes, Captain Phantom." Galen nodded, understanding the gravity of the command. He boarded the ship, setting the coordinates for Pallet Kingdom.

"I knew the string of events in Kalos and Hoenn couldn't have been a coincidence..." Phantom continued, mostly to himself.

"If she is in the possession of the Prince, it will take considerable resources to break in," Galen added, already working on the ship's controls.

"That will depend on the means of the intrusion..." Phantom's lips curled into a sinister smile.

"And what will those means be?" Galen asked, his eyes flickering with curiosity. Phantom's gaze turned steely.

"Let's gather information from the outskirts of the kingdom before we decide."

"Yes, sir," Galen replied, his focus back on the controls. Phantom's expression darkened as he muttered to himself.

"All will be right soon enough..."

"Yes, sir," Galen echoed, starting up the ship. The sails were lifted to their peak, and the vessel began its journey towards Pallet Kingdom. As the ship sailed through the water, Phantom's mind raced with thoughts of conquest and revenge. He was determined to reclaim what he believed was rightfully his, no matter the cost.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Lisia held out a delicate design of a flower crown veil, paired with a long, flowing white dress. The gown extended far longer than her current skirt, cropped at the hip to reveal her midriff, with a heart woven into the top.

"Well, what do you think?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"Oh wow..." May's eyes widened in awe. Ash, still carrying her, looked down at her with a tender smile.

"It's your choice," he said softly.

"It... it's very beautiful... are you sure it's okay for me to wear something so lovely...?" May's voice trembled with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Ash kissed her cheek gently.

"You're the walking definition of lovely, May." A blush crept across May's cheeks.

"And isn't seeing the wedding dress bad luck...?"

"It hasn't been made yet. And I'm looking at you." Ash's eyes twinkled with amusement. May blushed again, her heart fluttering. "If you like it, that's all that matters," Ash said reassuringly.

"I... I do..." May whispered.

"Then that's that," Ash declared with a smile. May's blush deepened, but she smiled a little, feeling a surge of happiness. "Approved," Ash said with finality.

"You've got it!" Lisia beamed.

"Thank you, Lisia," May said, her smile growing.

"You're welcome." Lisia curtsied gracefully. Ash, still smiling, began to walk away with May in his arms.

"That's that," he repeated, more to himself than anyone else. May's mind swirled with thoughts.

"A wedding dress..." she murmured. Ash smiled warmly at her. "The thought still scares me a little..." May admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash held her closer, his presence comforting.

"That better?" he asked gently. May nodded, resting her head against him.

"Yes," she breathed.

"Good," Ash said, kissing her forehead tenderly.

"Thank you," May said softly.

"Hm?" Ash looked at her, a question in his eyes.

"For everything," May clarified, her voice filled with gratitude.

"Of course, May," Ash replied, his smile widening. They walked over to the kitchen, and Ash finally set her down. May straightened her dress, looking at him with a hint of surprise. "My arms are sore," Ash admitted with a chuckle.

"Sorry..." May said, a hint of guilt in her voice.

"It's not your fault," Ash reassured her.

"But..." May began.

"You didn't ask to be carried for an hour," Ash pointed out.

"No, I guess not..." May agreed, a small smile tugging at her lips. Ash smiled back at her, and May blushed softly, feeling a warmth in her heart. With that settled, Ash looked around, scanning the room.

"Brock?" he called out.

"What are we doing in here...?" May glanced at him, puzzled.

"We gotta talk about the cake." Ash smiled at her.

"Oh, right," May responded, understanding dawning on her face.

"Brock?" Ash's smile broadened as he spotted Brock. Brock turned and greeted them with a friendly smile.

"Hey, Ash. I take it you're here about the cake?" Brock inquired.

"Yeah." Ash chuckled nervously.

"I got some samples ready." Brock's smile widened.

"Oh yeah?" Ash asked, his interest piqued.

"Yup. I narrowed it down to three flavor and icing combinations I think you'll like," Brock explained, leading them over to a table with three different simple cakes on it. "Obviously, they'll be much fancier for the real thing."

"Oooh..." Ash's eyes lit up.

"Whoa…" May mumbled.

"These are strictly for taste." Brock clarified.

"Got it." Ash nodded in understanding.

"We have a red velvet with cream cheese icing, strawberry with whipped icing, and chocolate with fudge icing." Brock pointed to each cake in turn.

"They all sound good... Which should we try first?" Ash looked at May, his eyes full of anticipation. May thought for a moment.

"I guess just... down the line?"

"Sounds good." Ash nodded in agreement. Brock cut a slice from each cake and placed them in front of Ash and May. Ash nodded to May, encouraging her to try them first. May timidly took a bite, savoring the flavors. Ash followed suit, starting with the red velvet. After sampling each cake, Ash grinned. "They're all good." May hesitated, nervously pushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I... the strawberry was my favorite though." Ash's smile widened. "Strawberries have always been my favorite..."

"Is that right?" he asked. May blushed and nodded shyly. "You just saying that 'cause I said it was my favorite, or do you mean that?" Ash teased.

"No, it's the truth... I've always loved strawberries... I was going to say it earlier but I'm... still new to voicing my opinion," May admitted.

"That's okay." Ash's smile was gentle and reassuring.

"Sorry..." May murmured, rubbing her arm nervously. Ash leaned in and kissed her cheek.

"No need to apologize." May's small smile grew a little more. "Thank you, Brock..."

"My pleasure." Brock nodded, pleased. "I'll have it ready for you," Brock promised.

"Great." Ash smiled, feeling a sense of contentment.

"See you soon." Brock smiled back.

"We look forward to it," Ash said as he led May out of the kitchen, glancing back to smile at her. May followed him, a soft smile on her lips. Ash looked around one last time. "Now then," he said, turning to May.

"Yes?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

"I think that's enough wedding prep for now," Ash said with a satisfied smile. May nodded, giving a small, understanding nod. Ash stretched and yawned. "I could go for a nap..."

"Alright..." May smiled softly. Taking her hand gently, Ash led her back to his room. May blushed at the warmth of his touch but followed him without hesitation. Once they reached his room, Ash slipped into bed with a sigh of contentment. May sat beside him, watching him with a tender expression. Ash shut his eyes, his body relaxing. May laid on her back next to him, feeling the comfort of his presence. With a soft smile playing on his lips, Ash drifted towards sleep. May closed her eyes as well, her hand still intertwined with his. The room was filled with a peaceful silence, the two of them finding rest and comfort in each other's company.

A couple of days later, May and Ash lay together in a peaceful slumber. The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. May stirred first, slowly opening her eyes. She felt the warmth of Ash's head resting against her chest, his breath steady and calm. A deep blush spread across her cheeks as she realized the intimacy of their position.

"Soft..." Ash murmured in his sleep, wrapping his arms around her waist. May's blush deepened to a bright red. Feeling a mix of embarrassment and discomfort, she gently tried to pull away from him. However, Ash instinctively held her closer.

"Eep…" She whimpered softly, her discomfort evident. Sensing her unease, Ash loosened his grip, allowing her to move. Seizing the opportunity, May quickly pulled away and sat up.

"Hey..." Ash's sleepy voice called out to her. She glanced back at him, her heart pounding. Ash, now awake but still groggy, cuddled up to a pillow, his eyes half-closed. May took a deep breath and hurriedly left the room.

Out in the castle courtyard, a guard opened the door of the carriage, and Luna emerged, her eyes bright with excitement. She ran up to the castle, her footsteps echoing through the corridors until she reached Ash's room. She knocked eagerly.

"Five more minutes..." Ash groaned, half-buried under the covers.

"Ashy?" Luna knocked again, her voice sweet and insistent. With an agonized groan, Ash buried his face deeper into the pillow. "Come on, Ashy, I've missed you," Luna pleaded.

"Yeeeeeeeah, sure..." Ash mumbled, his voice muffled. Luna blinked in surprise at his reluctance. "It's open..." Ash finally managed to say. Luna opened the door and walked in, her smile widening as she saw her brother. She rushed over and hugged him tightly. "Ack!" Ash gasped, feeling the squeeze.

"I've missed you so much," Luna said, her voice full of affection.

"I missed circulation," Ash quipped, trying to regain his breath. Luna quickly let go, an apologetic look on her face.

"Sorry..." Ash looked over to where May had been lying, only to find the spot empty.

"Uh..."

"What's wrong?" Luna noticed his confusion.

"Uh... Hi," Ash said, trying to shake off his surprise.

"Hi." Luna smiled warmly at him. Ash chuckled nervously.

"Sure you weren't enthusiastic about the idea of being an only child?"

"Of course not. You know I love you," Luna said sincerely.

"Love you too," Ash replied, his smile returning.

"So you're really getting married?" Luna asked, her excitement bubbling over.

"Oh, goodie, you heard," Ash said with a playful eye roll.

"It was in Mom's letter. Though nothing about how or who," Luna said, tilting her head curiously.

"At least you found out in time to make it," Ash said, sweatdropping a little.

"Like I'd miss my big brother's wedding," Luna said with a grin.

"Yeah, 'cause if you did you'd throttle me," Ash teased.

"Only a little. But I mean, it's your wedding day! That's huge on its own! But at the same time, you become King! Double big!" Luna exclaimed.

"I think I can afford to wait on one of those..." Ash said, a bit overwhelmed.

"I learned it from watching you and Gary, you know. You two weren't exactly civil in your rivalry." Luna giggled.

"Well gee, you would think I would notice after getting banished, huh?" Ash said with a wry smile.

"I meant while we were all growing up," Luna said, her smile softening with nostalgia.

"Speaking of, can you let me get up?" Ash asked.

"Only if I get a real hug when you are," Luna bargained.

"Deal," Ash agreed. Luna smiled and hopped off the bed, giving Ash space to get up. As he stood, he stretched and turned to her. "Okay," he said. Luna hugged him happily, and Ash hugged her back, feeling a wave of warmth and familiarity.

"...I was really scared when you were banished... I was afraid I'd never see you again..." Luna held onto Ash tightly, her voice trembling slightly.

"Surprise." Ash gave a small, comforting smile.

"It won't... happen again... right...?" Luna hugged him even closer.

"Not if I have anything to say about it." Ash nodded slowly. Luna smiled softly, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. Ash returned her smile, albeit a small one. "I missed you too," Luna's smile brightened, her happiness evident. Ash chuckled, feeling a sense of warmth. "Alright. How would you like to meet the bride-to-be?"

"I thought you'd never ask." Luna's eyes sparkled with excitement.

"Not sure where she is right now, though," Ash admitted, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice.

"Where is she staying?" Luna asked, curious.

"Here, typically," Ash replied with a sweatdrop.

"Oh. Well, I'll help then," Luna offered cheerfully.

"Thanks." Ash nodded in appreciation.

"What does she look like?" Luna inquired.

"I'd rather not spoil it, but she has brunette hair, blue eyes, and wears an orange and pink dress," Ash described.

"Sounds pretty," Luna said, smiling.

"Very," Ash agreed, a soft look in his eyes.

"Aaww..." Luna giggled. Ash sighed, though there was a hint of a smile on his lips. "I think it's sweet."

"Yeah, yeah," Ash said, shaking his head playfully.

"What's she like?" Luna asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Very reserved," Ash replied.

"Oh?" Luna's interest grew.

"There's a lot we have to catch you up to speed on," Ash said, hinting at the many stories and events she had missed.

"Like what?" Luna pressed.

"We'll get to it when we find her," Ash said with a wink.

"Alright," Luna agreed, feeling reassured. Ash walked to the door, with Luna following closely behind. As they made their way through the castle, Ash looked around, trying to locate his fiancée.

"May?" he called out, his voice echoing slightly.

"You love her, right?" Luna glanced up at him, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"Loads," Ash replied, scratching his head in embarrassment. Luna smiled softly.

"Well... how did you know it was love? What does it feel like...?" Ash took a deep breath, searching for the right words.

"I couldn't possibly describe it... other than leaving you breathless."

"Really...?" Luna asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"When I look at her... I don't really know what I feel... but I know what kind of man I want to be for her," Ash explained, his voice filled with sincerity.

"I see..." Luna smiled a little, understanding dawning on her face.

"Why the sudden interest?" Ash asked, glancing at her.

"The reason I ask is because... I met someone while I was away... and I wasn't sure if I was actually feeling something for him... or if I was just missing you and scared after your banishment..." she explained.

"Oh?" Ash's interest was piqued.

"Yeah." Luna nodded. "He's about your age, kinda sullen but really sweet once you break through that, very coolheaded."

"Uh-huh," Ash said, listening intently.

"So I wanted to know what it felt like for you... even just mentioning her makes you light up, and I would love to find that someday too," Luna admitted, her cheeks tinged with a slight blush.

"You'll find it, Luna." Ash smiled, feeling a warm glow in his chest. Luna smiled back, her blush deepening a little. They continued walking until Luna stopped by a nearby window and looked outside at the garden.

"Oh, hey. Is that her out there?" Ash followed her gaze and smiled brightly.

"Indeed it is." Without another word, he ran down the hallway. Luna followed him, her excitement mirroring his. Together, they made their way to the garden, prepared for the meeting of the sisters-in-law.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May sat by the pond, her fingers lightly tracing the water's surface. The garden was peaceful, a stark contrast to her thoughts. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps disrupted her reverie. She turned around to see Ash walking towards her, a gentle smile on his face.

"Hey," Ash greeted warmly.

"Hi... I'm sorry for running off," May responded, her voice tinged with regret.

"No harm done," Ash reassured her. May stood up, facing him fully now. "Someone would like to meet you," Ash said, his smile widening. May followed his gaze to see a young girl approaching. The girl smiled brightly and curtsied.

"Hi. It's so nice to meet you. It's May, isn't it?"

"Yes..." May replied, a bit taken aback.

"This is my little sister," Ash explained.

"I'm Luna. It's so nice to meet you," Luna said enthusiastically, wrapping May in a hug. May flinched slightly at the unexpected embrace. Ash chuckled softly, while Luna noticed May's reaction and quickly let go. "Are you okay?" Luna asked, concern evident in her eyes.

"Y-Yes... it just... surprised me," May stammered.

"She's not exactly used to affection." Ash scratched his head awkwardly.

"How could that be? You're lovely," Luna said, her eyes wide with disbelief.

"U-Uh..." May blushed profusely. Ash cleared his throat.

"Remember how I said there's a lot you have to be caught up on?" Luna nodded, her curiosity piqued. "Let's head indoors," Ash suggested.

"Uh, okay," Luna agreed. Ash led the way back inside, with Luna following close behind. May trailed after the siblings, her heart pounding with a mix of emotions.

Ash closed the door to his room, the sound of the latch clicking into place emphasizing the seriousness of what he was about to say.

"This stays between us, got it?" he said, his tone firm.

"Alright," Luna replied, her eyes filled with curiosity. Taking a deep breath first, Ash then began to clue her in about May, providing far more detail than he had given to even Delia. Luna's eyes widened in surprise as the story unfolded. May stood by, rubbing her own arm awkwardly, feeling exposed by the revelation.

"So... yeah..." Ash finished, looking slightly uncomfortable.

"Wow... um... that's a lot of information to absorb," Luna said, her mind reeling.

"Yeah..." Ash agreed.

"And it's just Mom that knows?" Luna asked, trying to process everything.

"Mom knows most of it. We spared some details that would possibly deny our marriage. We gave the kingdom an extremely vague inkling since it was impossible to keep it completely secret," Ash explained.

"So it's all on a very delicate balance," Luna surmised.

"Right." Ash nodded. "The public knows nothing about her magic. They know she's a slave, becoming Queen."

"Wow…" Luna's eyes widened further. "So what does that mean for things like decision-making and heirs?"

"Well... as for decision-making, it means I generally have to do all the 'fun' stuff..." he said, a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "As for heirs... we thought perhaps we could be succeeded by a niece or nephew." Luna's eyes lit up. "If you like that idea..."

"Oh wow, Ashy! That's amazing!" She hugged him tightly. Ash gave a half-hearted groan of distress, but he couldn't help but smile. "I'll be happy to help in any way I can!" Luna added enthusiastically. May, watching the exchange, smiled a little. Ash looked at his sister seriously.

"Keep this between us, alright?" Ash insisted from his sister.

"Promise," Luna said, nodding.

"Do you want to see some of her magic?" Ash asked.

"Is that allowed?" Luna's eyes sparkled with excitement.

"As long as you don't mind, May," Ash said, turning to her. May nodded slightly.

"I'll grant your wishes as always..."

"That wasn't the question." Ash lifted her chin gently.

"I know..." May whispered.

"Would you mind?" Ash asked softly.

"...I guess not..." May replied. Ash pecked her on the cheek, causing her to blush.

"Could you get us some cookies?" he asked. May snapped her fingers, and Ash held out a plate, now filled with perfectly warm cookies. Luna took one eagerly and took a bite.

"Wow!" Ash smiled and took a cookie as well. "These are great!" Luna exclaimed.

"Try one, May," Ash encouraged her. Gingerly, May took a cookie and took a bite.

"They're good," she admitted.

"Everything you make always is," Ash said warmly, causing May to blush again. Luna giggled, and Ash joined in with a smile.

"This is so cool!" Luna said, her excitement bubbling over. Ash scratched his head, looking slightly embarrassed. "I'm so happy for you guys!" Luna declared.

"Thanks," Ash replied, smiling gratefully.

"May and I can still have girls' days out, right?" Luna asked, her tone hopeful.

"I feel like I should be concerned..." Ash sweatdropped.

"Why?" Luna asked innocently.

"Because I know you," Ash chuckled.

"Oh, come on. I don't get to hang out with girls much," Luna protested asAsh smiled.

"Yeeeees," he said teasingly. Luna playfully shoved him. "I definitely want her to have more positive figures in her life," Ash said earnestly.

"I count, don't I?" Luna asked. Ash nodded. "Awesome!" Luna exclaimed. Ash looked at May, who smiled a little.

"You could certainly learn a lot about expressing yourself from her," he suggested.

"I can tell," May replied quietly. Ash chuckled. "I think... I'd like that..." May said, her voice gaining a bit more confidence.

"Yes!" Luna cheered.

"Gee, show more enthusiasm, why don't you, Luna..." Ash said, sweatdropping again. Luna laughed, and May chuckled softly. "I'm in trouble..." Ash muttered.

"Why?" Luna asked, genuinely puzzled.

"You're a little too influential..." Ash replied with a sigh.

"Oh, please," Luna scoffed. May giggled softly, catching Ash's attention.

"See?" he said, smiling at her.

"I thought you liked my laugh..." May's smile faltered slightly.

"I love your laugh, May," Ash reassured her, taking her hand and giving a sheepish smile. "It's just a bit different when it's a laugh at my expense."

"I just... I thought we were having fun..." May looked down.

"We were. I thought it was cute," Ash said gently.

"It upset you..." May murmured. Ash shook his head and cupped her cheeks. May blushed as he used his thumbs to make her smile.

"There you go," he said softly.

"I-I'm sorry..." May stammered.

"You didn't do anything wrong," Ash said firmly. May nodded slightly and Ash leaned in and kissed her. She kissed him back, and he held her close. She moaned softly as he pulled away, her face flushed. "Better?" he asked. May nodded. "Good," Ash said, smiling. May smiled softly in return, and Ash let go of her, watching as she dried her eyes.

"This'll be awesome!" Luna exclaimed, her excitement palpable. May smiled a little as Ash turned to her.

"Well, you're going to be in-laws," he said with a grin. Luna's face lit up.

"I'm finally going to have a sister!" she exclaimed, her joy overflowing. Ash smiled, and Luna hugged them both tightly. Ash hugged her back, and May timidly joined in the embrace. Ash chuckled softly. Luna let go, her energy undiminished. "Well, I gotta go say hi to Mom. We can all hang out later, right?" she asked. Ash nodded. "See you soon," Luna said, smiling as she headed off. Ash watched her go, still smiling.

"She's very sweet," May remarked.

"She is," Ash agreed. May smiled a little more, feeling the warmth of the moment. "Alone at last," Ash said, his voice dropping to a softer tone. May blushed a little as Ash leaned in to kiss her. She kissed him back, feeling his arms around her, holding her close. She moaned softly, and he responded in kind. Slowly, she pulled away, looking into his eyes.

"I... I am sorry I went off this morning," she began hesitantly.

"Hey, it's alright. If you need fresh air, you're welcome to it," Ash reassured her.

"No, it was... you were..." May struggled to find the right words.

"Hey, I can live with being slightly disappointed at waking up without you," Ash said, trying to lighten the mood.

"No, I mean... in your sleep you were... touching me a little..." May confessed, her cheeks turning a deeper shade of red.

"Oh..." Ash said, realizing the gravity of her discomfort.

"I got a little... uncomfortable... so I just needed some air... I'm sorry," May continued, looking down.

"May, I should apologize. You didn't do anything wrong. I did," Ash said earnestly.

"Technically, you didn't..." May replied softly.

"...I'll try to be more aware of what is and isn't a pillow in the future," Ash promised with a small, apologetic smile.

"...I'll get there in time," May said, determination in her voice.

"May..." Ash began, but she cut him off.

"I promise," she said firmly.

"It's okay..." Ash said, pulling her into a hug. She hugged him back tightly.

"I love you..." May whispered into his chest.

"I love you too..." Ash replied, holding her close. May smiled, feeling the comfort of his embrace. Ash kissed her forehead gently, and she rested her head against him.

"I like this..." she murmured.

"Me too..." Ash said, his voice filled with warmth. They stood there, holding each other, both feeling the tranquility of the moment. May closed her eyes, and Ash did the same.

"This kind of touching I like..." she said softly.

"Mm," Ash responded, smiling as he held her. May smiled back, feeling safe and content.

"So... what's next?" she asked.

"Breakfast," Ash said. "That alright?" Ash asked, wanting to be sure. May nodded. "Great," Ash said, smiling. May smiled a little as Ash took her hand. They walked out together, exchanging small, tender smiles. Ash pecked her cheek, causing her to blush and smile.

Ash and May entered the dining room, immediately catching the scent of something delicious in the air.

"Smells good..." May remarked, glancing up at him with a hint of a smile.

"Yeah," Ash agreed, his eyes twinkling as he looked at her. There was something about the way she smiled that made his heart warm. May tilted her head slightly, confused by his gaze. "Someone's glowing," he said with a smile. Her cheeks flushed softly as she tried to process his words. Ash's smile widened, and he leaned in to kiss her cheek. May's smile grew bigger, her earlier confusion melting away. With a gentle motion, Ash pulled out a chair for her.

"Oh. Thank you," May said, sitting down gracefully. Ash took a seat beside her, his hand finding hers. She blushed a bit more at the touch, but she didn't pull away. They both looked around the table, their eyes landing on the stack of pancakes in the center. May reached out and took a few, followed by Ash, who did the same. They began to eat in comfortable silence. "Very good," May said after a few bites.

"Oh yeah?" Ash replied, a playful glint in his eyes. May nodded. "Bold statement," Ash teased.

"It is...?" she asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.

"At least, for you," he said, smiling at her reaction. May's blush deepened, and Ash chuckled softly. They continued eating, the room filled with the quiet sounds of their enjoyment. When May finished her plate, she dabbed her mouth with a napkin, her movements delicate. Ash, finishing his own meal, smiled at her, a bit of syrup clinging to the corner of his mouth. May giggled softly, drawing his attention. "What's so funny?" he asked, smiling back at her.

"Syrup," she said simply.

"On my face?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. May nodded. Ash's playful smirk appeared. "If I asked you to get it, would you?" May's blush returned, deeper than before.

"I'll always do what you ask," she murmured. Ash leaned in closer, his voice a soft whisper.

"Would you lick it off?" May's face turned a brilliant shade of red, and she nodded timidly. Ash smiled innocently, waiting. Gathering her courage, May leaned in and licked the syrup away, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash pecked her lips in response, his touch light and affectionate. "Thanks," he said softly.

"You're welcome..." she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Had enough?" Ash asked, noticing her empty plate. May nodded, and Ash stood up, stretching his arms. May followed suit, straightening her dress and offering him a soft smile. As Ash turned, he noticed Luna and Delia entering the room.

"Hi!" Luna greeted with a bright smile.

"Everything going well here?" Delia asked, her eyes scanning the room.

"I'd say so," Ash replied, his voice calm and confident. May gave a small nod in agreement. "You guys here to eat breakfast?" Ash inquired.

"We were just about to sit down for it, actually," Delia responded. Ash nodded in response.

"You guys want to eat with us?" Luna asked, her tone hopeful.

"Already finished," Ash said, a touch of regret in his voice.

"Rattatas. Talk about timing," Luna sighed.

"Heh." Ash chuckled.

"Some other time then," Delia suggested.

"Or maybe I could make all of us a little something," Ash offered.

"Oh?" Delia raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"I'd like to give it a shot," Ash said with a determined look.

"Ashy cooking? Whoa," Luna exclaimed, eyes wide with surprise. Ash scratched his head, feeling a bit shy under the attention. "Cool!" she added enthusiastically. Ash smiled, his confidence returning. He took May's hand, feeling her warmth. May blushed at the gesture, but her eyes reflected her happiness. Ash's smile grew, and May couldn't help but smile back.

"The offer is on the table if Brock hasn't made more," Ash said.

"That sounds delightful," Delia responded with genuine interest.

"Awesome!" Luna echoed, her excitement contagious. Ash stood up, his eyes meeting May's.

"Do you need me to...?" May started, her voice trailing off.

"Hm?" Ash looked at her, puzzled.

"...'Help'..." May's voice was almost a whisper, her nervousness palpable. Ash shook his head.

"If I need something specific, you'll be the first to know."

"Okay," May replied, trying to hide her disappointment. Ash headed to the kitchen, leaving May sitting back down at the table, her fingers fidgeting nervously.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Ash entered the kitchen, scanning the room for Brock. He found his friend at the counter, carefully inspecting a dish.

"Brock?" Ash called out. Brock looked up, concern flickering across his face.

"Hey, Ash. Problem with one of the dishes?"

"Not at all." Ash shook his head. "I just wanted to know if I could take my shot at it. May and I ate before Mom and Luna."

"Oh," Brock said, nodding in understanding. "Sure, if you'd like." A smile spread across Ash's face.

"Sweet."

"What do you feel like making?" Brock grinned. Ash thought for a moment.

"Hm... I was thinking maybe omelets and bacon."

"Easy enough." Brock nodded approvingly. Ash smiled again, feeling a surge of excitement. Brock led him over to the stove and turned it on, the flame springing to life. Ash got to work, his movements a bit tentative at first, but growing more confident with Brock's guidance. The kitchen filled with the sizzling sounds of cooking and the mouthwatering aroma of frying bacon. "Nice work," Brock complimented as Ash flipped the last piece of bacon.

"Thanks," Ash replied, a sense of accomplishment washing over him. Brock glanced at the plates of food.

"Need help serving?"

"That'd be nice," Ash admitted. Brock nodded and picked up two of the plates while Ash carried the rest. As they entered the dining room, May looked over, her eyes lighting up when she saw Ash. He smiled at her, feeling a warm flutter in his chest. "Someone order breakfast?"

"Thank you, dear." Delia's face broke into a warm smile.

"You're welcome," Ash replied, smiling back.

"Thanks, Ashy!" Luna chirped, her voice filled with excitement.

"You're welcome." Ash sweatdropped but smiled. May watched him, a soft smile playing on her lips. The nervousness she had felt earlier began to fade, replaced by a quiet admiration for Ash. He slid a plate over to May, who looked up at him with grateful eyes.

"Thank you," she said softly. Ash smiled warmly at her, and she returned it with a shy smile of her own.

"Alright then," he said, watching as she took her first bite. May's eyes widened in surprise and delight.

"Wow...!" she exclaimed, the taste matching Brock's exceptional quality.

"Heh..." Ash blushed at the praise, scratching his head.

"Awesome!" Luna was quick to add.

"Very impressive, Ash." Delia nodded approvingly.

"Well, I can't take all the credit," Ash admitted modestly.

"Why not?" Luna asked, clearly curious. Ash glanced at May and gently nudged her.

"I wouldn't be remotely this good without her help."

"I-I didn't do anything..." May's face turned crimson. Ash wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close.

"You know that's not true."

"I-I do...?" May's blush deepened. Ash leaned in and whispered in her ear.

"I wished for the talent, didn't I?"

"Oh... right..." May murmured, remembering their shared secret. With a playful grin, Ash kissed her upside down, like a scene from a movie. May's blush intensified, and she looked at him with wide eyes.

"You're my inspiration," Ash said softly. May's face flushed hard, and she managed a small smile in return. "Glad you all like it," Ash said, turning back to the group.

"It seems you have quite the hidden talent, Ash," Delia remarked.

"Heh..." Ash chuckled, feeling a bit embarrassed by all the praise. Luna finished her plate quickly and declare her opinion loudly.

"So good!" Ash chuckled awkwardly. "You sure you wanna be king? You'd make a great chef," she teased.

"Hardy har," Ash replied with a smirk. Luna giggled. "Unfortunately, dear sister, I have no say in the matter," Ash added with a hint of resignation. Delia chuckled at their banter, and Luna laughed as well. Ash smiled, enjoying the lighthearted moment with his family. "The trial is today, right?" Ash asked, his tone turning serious.

"That's right," Delia confirmed. Ash nodded. "You'd still like to attend?" Delia asked. Ash nodded again, determination in his eyes. "Very well," Delia said.

"Right," Ash replied, squeezing May's hand. She looked up at him, silently asking if he wanted her to come along. Ash nodded, and May gave a nervous nod in return. He pecked her cheek, and she blushed softly. Together, they walked away from the dining room, May following closely behind him, their hands intertwined.

Ash gently took May's hand, her skin warm against his. She blushed again, and Ash couldn't help but smile at how endearing she looked.

"Are you sure... I should be there? At the trial I mean..." May asked hesitantly, her voice tinged with worry.

"Of course. It wouldn't have been possible without you May." Ash nodded, his expression reassuring.

"It just...scares me some..." she admitted, her eyes downcast. Without a word, Ash pulled her into a comforting hug. "Obviously I'm not a fan of... 'justice' punishments..." she continued, her voice muffled against his chest.

"May..." Ash whispered, his tone gentle.

"And... this is technically a consequence of my powers..." she added, her voice filled with guilt. Ash held her tighter. "Sorry..." May muttered, feeling overwhelmed.

"Don't be. That's exactly why I think it'll be good for you to be there. So you can rest easy," Ash explained softly.

"But..." she began to protest.

"This way you'll know for sure," Ash said, his voice firm yet kind.

"Someone being hurt by my powers isn't something I want to see..." she confessed, tears brimming in her eyes.

"May..." Ash murmured, his heart aching for her.

"I'm sorry..." she repeated, her voice barely a whisper. Ash stroked her back soothingly, trying to calm her down.

"Deep breath," he instructed gently. May took a deep breath, filling her lungs with air. "Out," Ash said. She blew out slowly, feeling some of the tension leave her body. "Better?" he asked.

"A little..." she admitted, her voice a bit steadier. Ash leaned in and kissed her, a tender gesture that made her heart flutter. She kissed him back, her worries momentarily forgotten. Ash relaxed, feeling the connection between them strengthen. May managed a small smile.

"Well then?" Ash said, his voice filled with quiet determination.

"I... guess I can try..." May said, her resolve growing.

"Great..." Ash murmured, stroking her back reassuringly. May stayed close to him, drawing comfort from his presence. "Want to go out to the garden?" Ash asked, hoping to lift her spirits. May nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. Ash smiled, taking her hand and leading her outside. They walked into the garden, the fresh air and vibrant flowers providing a soothing backdrop to their thoughts.

Ash took in a deep breath, savoring the fresh air. Beside him, May settled into the grass, her eyes reflecting a small, serene smile. He joined her, sitting close by.

"Anything you want to add to the garden?" Ash asked, his gaze gentle.

"Add...?" May echoed, looking a bit confused.

"Yeah. Any plants or anything else to your liking?" he elaborated.

"But... it's your Mom's garden..." she hesitated. Ash shook his head slightly.

"It's the palace garden. Anything else that can increase the beauty is always welcome."

"Oh..." she murmured, considering his words.

"We can always use a few homey touches," he added with a smile. May thought for a moment.

"...I like... the tulips," she finally admitted, her voice soft.

"We can expand that section if you want." Ash's smile widened. She gave a small nod, blushing softly. "So, what are you thinking?" Ash asked. "What would you like to do?"

"I just... like the way they look and smell... it's calming...so having more of them would be nice…" she explained, her cheeks tinged with pink. Ash smiled warmly. He leaned over and kissed her cheek, causing her to blush even more. Ash couldn't help but smile at her reaction. He held her close, his arms a safe haven for her.

"Feel free to lay back and relax," he suggested. May hesitated for a moment before laying against his chest. Ash's hand softly caressed her bare skin, a comforting gesture. "Like that?" he asked, his voice a soothing murmur.

"Y-Yes..." she admitted, her blush deepening. Ash shut his eyes, savoring the peaceful moment. May blushed but remained close to him, her heart racing. They sat together in silence, the bond between them growing stronger with each passing second.

"It's good to be home..." Ash mused, breaking the silence.

"I'm sure it is..." May responded, understanding the weight of his words. Ash opened his eyes and looked at her, remembering that she could never feel that experience.

"Sorry..."

"It's ok..." she reassured him.

"...Is it?" he asked, uncertainty in his voice. May looked up at him, her eyes filled with concern.

"What do you mean...?"

"Is it ok?" he repeated, seeking her reassurance. "I mean…you'll never get this feeling…going home I mean…I'm trying not to be insensitive to you."

"It's ok Master…" she replied, her voice tentative but sincere.

"Alright..." Ash said, feeling a bit more at ease. May held onto him tightly, finding comfort in his presence. Ash remained still for her, his heart swelling with affection.

"Mm..." she murmured, her eyes closing as she rested against him. Ash smiled, feeling an overwhelming sense of contentment. May cracked a small smile in return, their shared moment of peace a testament to their deepening connection.

"Well, now I can't move. You're all comfortable," Ash teased gently. May blushed softly and sat up quickly.

"I-I'm sorry..."

"I didn't tell you to get up." Ash chuckled, shaking his head.

"But I don't want to...," May started, then trailed off, embarrassed by her own words. Ash's laughter rang out, light and carefree.

"Well, I guess I'm getting up."

"Sorry," May mumbled again, her face flushed with embarrassment. Ash smiled warmly at her.

"You're adorable," he said, causing her blush to deepen. May managed to give a small smile in return as Ash stood and began walking. She followed him quietly, her eyes taking in the garden's beauty. "Pokémon tend to wander in and out of here," Ash mentioned casually.

"They do...?" May asked, intrigued.

"Yeah. There's a fair share of water types in the pond too," Ash explained, leading her towards the pond. When they reached the water's edge, Ash crouched down. "Look closely," he instructed. May followed his gaze and soon saw Magikarp swimming around and a Feebas surfacing. She smiled softly, charmed by the sight.

"Wow…" The Magikarp suddenly jumped, splashing water, and May chuckled at his playful antics. Ash smiled, pleased to see her enjoying herself.

"Not sure how deep it goes, but we see a couple of them swimming around from time to time," Ash said.

"I see," May replied, still smiling. Ash stood up and offered his hand to her. She gently accepted it, and he helped her to her feet.

"Thank you," she said quietly.

"Of course," Ash responded with a warm smile. May pushed a strand of hair behind her ear, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I think there's a bit more time before the trial," Ash said thoughtfully.

"For what...?" May asked, curious.

"To do something fun," Ash replied.

"Like what...?" she asked, a hint of excitement in her voice.

"We could go Rapidash riding," Ash suggested.

"I've never done that before..." May admitted, a bit nervous. Ash hugged her reassuringly.

"Just hang on to me real tight."

"O-Ok..." May blushed again, feeling the warmth of his embrace.

"Think you can do that?" Ash asked, his tone playful yet encouraging. May gave a small nod, her heart racing. "Okay," Ash said, letting go of her gently. May nodded again, trying to steady her breathing. Ash smiled at her, and she returned it with a shy smile of her own. He began walking her towards the stables, and she followed, her nervousness mingling with excitement.

Ash walked up to his stall with a confident stride, the familiar sounds and scents of the stable surrounding him. May followed a few steps behind, her movements hesitant, her eyes darting around nervously. With a quick, sharp whistle, Ash called out for his Rapidash. The magnificent creature responded immediately, trotting over to the gate with a grace that belied his size. Ash greeted his companion with a gentle pat on the neck, eliciting a soft neigh from Rapidash.

"Hey old friend. Can you give us a ride?" Ash asked, his voice carrying a tone of affection and trust.

"Dash." Rapidash nodded, a simple but clear acknowledgment. A smile spread across Ash's face, warming his usually stoic features. Behind him, May swallowed hard, her anxiety evident. Leading Rapidash out of the stall, Ash mounted the horse with practiced ease. He turned to May, offering her a hand. She hesitated for a moment before accepting, her grip firm as she was helped up. Once seated behind Ash, she clung to him tightly, her fear palpable.

"Heh," Ash chuckled softly, feeling her trembling against his back. May buried her face in his jacket, seeking comfort in the familiarity of his presence. "Don't worry, I'll protect you," Ash assured her, his voice gentle and reassuring. He chuckled again, trying to ease her nerves.

"Y-Yes Master…" May managed a small nod, her grip around his waist tightening as she prepared for the ride ahead.

"Hut!" Ash commanded, and Rapidash took off, moving with a speed and fluidity that only a well-trained creature could muster. Ash rode with skill and confidence, his posture steady. Behind him, May held on for dear life, her fears gradually ebbing away as she trusted Ash to keep her safe. Ash glanced over his shoulder at May, sensing her tension. "Are you nervous or just happy to hold me?" he teased, a playful glint in his eye. May hesitated before answering.

"I'll admit I'm scared…" she admitted. Ash's smile was reassuring.

"He's not gonna let you fall off," he said confidently, patting Rapidash affectionately. "And I promise he doesn't bite. Do you?" Rapidash seemed to understand, responding with what looked like a smile. Ash's own smile widened at the sight. Feeling a bit more at ease, May tightened her grip around Ash. In a surprising move, Ash leaned back and planted a light kiss on her cheek. Her face flushed with color, and she smiled shyly. Ash urged Rapidash forward, riding smoothly away from the palace grounds. May took in the surroundings, though she still seemed uneasy. As they approached the town, her anxiety returned.

"You didn't mention going into town," she mumbled.

"Just passing through," Ash assured her.

"Oh…" she replied, her voice tinged with apprehension.

"You okay?" Ash asked, sensing her discomfort.

"Just scared… Crowds and all that..." she confessed.

"Don't worry about them. They're happy to have you here." Ash tried to lighten the mood.

"Oh..." May's grip tightened around him, finding comfort in his presence.

"How are my muscles?" Ash asked suddenly, a mischievous grin on his face. May's blush deepened.

"I-I…" she stammered.

"Like what you're touching?" Ash continued, clearly enjoying her embarrassment.

"...Yes..." May replied, with a barely audible whisper. Ash laughed, genuinely surprised by her honesty.

"Wasn't expecting that answer." Her blush intensified, but she managed a small smile.

"You're welcome…"

"Riding smoothly?" Ash looked back at her with a warm smile.

"Yes…" she answered, feeling a bit more at ease.

"Great." Ash's voice was filled with satisfaction as they rode on. May held onto him, her earlier fear gradually melting away. Ash smiled to himself, enjoying her closeness and the quiet trust that was building between them.

After a nice peaceful trip around the kingdom, they rode back towards the palace, the journey passing in comfortable silence. As they reached the stables, May climbed down carefully, followed by Ash.

"Thank you..." she said softly, her gratitude genuine.

"Enjoy yourself?" Ash asked, his eyes twinkling.

"I think so..." May admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly. Ash's smile was tender as he leaned in and kissed her cheek again. Her face turned an even deeper shade of red, but she smiled back at him, a tiny but genuine smile.

"Then we should be going, the trial is about to start." Ash said, giving her hand one last squeeze before starting to walk.

"O-Oh…" May gulped, some of her anxiety returning with the realization. Ash walked with her back inside, and she stayed close to Ash, her nerves evident in her every movement. Ash noticed her unease and gently took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

"Deep breath," he advised softly. "Everything will be ok." May tried to follow his instruction, inhaling deeply before slowly letting the air go. Ash smiled at her, and she managed a small, grateful smile in return.

"O-Ok…" May followed him quietly, her steps echoing in the silent hallway. Ash led the way to the courtroom, where tension filled the air.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Once inside the courtroom, Ash took his seat, and May nervously sat beside him. He reached out and took her hand again, his touch calming her slightly. She blushed at the contact, and Ash gently stroked her hand. His attention shifted to Delia as she took her seat. There was a brief pause before she nodded to the guards, signaling them to escort Gary inside. The atmosphere grew heavier with each passing second.

"Gary, you've been accused of treason against the crown. How do you plead?" Delia's voice was steady and authoritative. Gary's eyes narrowed as he glared at Ash.

"No more guilty than the Prince who knowingly breaks his own laws," he spat.

"You will refrain from personal insults during this trial." Delia's expression remained stern. Gary fell silent, but his eyes still burned with resentment. "How do you plead?" Delia repeated.

"Guilty. There. Happy?" Gary's voice dripped with sarcasm.

"Do you have a preferred sentence prepared?" Delia turned to her prosecutor.

"I do, your Highness." The prosecutor nodded. "Though I wished to see what the victim of his treachery thought before the final decision." Delia looked back to Gary.

"Would you like to take the prosecution's grant of time to speak to the victim?"

"I have nothing to say to someone who broke his own laws the second he was gone," Gary retorted.

"Very well." The prosecutor's tone was final. "You are henceforth banished from Pallet Kingdom. Punishment to match the result of the crime."

"The crown grants the punishment." Delia nodded.

"He's banished innocent, and is welcomed back guilty. Some justice…" Gary's glare intensified as he looked at Ash. Ash remained silent, his face unreadable. May glanced at him, concern etched in her features. Ash squeezed her hand again, offering silent support.

"Guards, please escort Mr. Oak out of the Kingdom," Delia ordered. As he was being taken away, Gary's voice echoed in the courtroom.

"You're crowning a fraud, and you know it!" Delia rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. May frowned, feeling the weight of the situation. Ash leaned over and kissed her cheek, trying to comfort her. She rubbed her arm awkwardly, still feeling responsible.

"It's all over now," Ash whispered.

"...I caused that…" May's voice was barely audible.

"He brought it on himself, May. It might have happened within a couple of years anyway, with the right circumstances."

"I can't know that…" she murmured. Ash pulled her into a comforting embrace.

"I'm home thanks to you...and look at it this way, he may have ended up marrying my sister of all people. Could you imagine Luna being forced to marry that?"

"I guess not..." May sighed softly. Ash tilted her chin up and kissed her, a gentle and lingering gesture. She blushed deeply but kissed him back. When he finally pulled away, he smiled warmly at her.

"Thank you."

"For what…?"

"For making this possible."

"Y-You're welcome…" she stammered, still flushed. Ash stood up and offered his hand. May looked up at him, her heart pounding. She gently accepted his hand, and he helped her to her feet. Ash nodded, and she squeezed his hand, drawing strength from his presence.

"It's alright," he said softly.

"I hope so…" May replied, her voice trembling slightly. Ash stroked her back, offering silent reassurance. She rested her head against him, finding comfort in his embrace.

"There…" he murmured. "Better?"

"Yes…" she breathed, her tension easing.

"I've got you." Ash smiled, feeling her relax. May scooted a little closer to him, seeking more of his warmth.

"I'd like to leave now…" she said softly. Ash nodded and led her out, their steps in sync as they walked together, leaving the courtroom and its heavy atmosphere behind.

As they walked out into the hall, Ash wrapped an arm around May's waist, pulling her close.

"I know something that'll take your mind off this," he said, his voice low and soothing.

"You do…?" May asked, her curiosity piqued.

"I've put together a little surprise for you. It was just finished this morning, I heard," Ash replied, a playful smile on his lips as he ran a finger along her stomach.

"R-Really…?" May blushed and shivered at his touch. Ash leaned in and kissed her, a tender but passionate gesture. She kissed him back eagerly, losing herself in the moment. His hand traced her navel, eliciting a soft moan from her. Ash gently poked her lips, seeking entry, and she allowed him in. Their tongues danced together, exploring and playing. May moaned softly, the sound muffled by their kiss, and Ash responded with a moan of his own. They continued their passionate exchange, their tongues battling, his hand stroking her stomach. When Ash slowly pulled away, both were left panting softly. May's cheeks were flushed with color.

"Wanna see the surprise now?" Ash asked, his breathing still a bit uneven.

"O-Ok..." May responded, her voice shaky but filled with anticipation. Ash chuckled, amused by her nervous smile. He led her to a room she had yet to explore, keeping her close. As they walked, May stayed close to him, drawing comfort from his presence. Once they reached the room, Ash opened the door and gestured for her to enter. The room was filled with natural light coming from large bay windows overlooking the castle garden, blank canvases of all different sizes, and a variety of paints and brushes neatly arranged. May's eyes lit up at the sight. Ash gestured for May to take a look around.

"Take a look around," he encouraged with a warm smile. "This is your new studio." May stepped inside the studio and gasped, her eyes wide with amazement.

"Whoa..."

"Impressed?" Ash asked, his smile growing wider. May nodded slowly, still taking in the room's beauty and potential.

"I had it made just for you. The world is your Cloyster. At least, the room is anyway," Ash said with a playful grin. May blushed a little, feeling both excitement and a touch of nervousness. She smiled softly and began to examine the various supplies scattered around the room. "If there's anything else specific you could need or want, you know that's taken care of," Ash assured her, his tone gentle and reassuring.

"That's...weird to think," May admitted, still a bit overwhelmed.

"You're the genie," Ash said, nudging her lightly.

"For others..." May replied softly.

"Even so," Ash insisted, giving her a reassuring smile. She blushed again, feeling a mix of gratitude and affection.

"May I...?" she asked, glancing at a nearby stool.

"Go right ahead," Ash encouraged. May sat down on the stool, her fingers lightly touching the edge of a blank canvas. Ash watched her with a tender smile, appreciating the sight of her finding solace in creativity. As she began to paint, Ash observed her for a moment longer, seeing her relax and become absorbed in her work. "I'll leave you to it," he said softly, standing up.

"Thank you," May murmured, already lost in the flow of her painting. Ash walked away quietly, leaving her to her artistic sanctuary. May continued her work, the act of painting bringing her a sense of peace and calm.

The next morning, light streamed through the windows as May slowly opened her eyes. Next to her in bed, Ash was gently petting Pikachu and Glaceon, a soft smile on his face. Glaceon purred contentedly, echoing the peaceful ambiance of the moment.

"Morning," Ash greeted as he noticed May stirring awake.

"Hi..." she replied groggily, still transitioning from the world of dreams. Ash's smile widened as he saw her wake.

"Sleep well?" he asked. May nodded, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "Great," Ash said, his tone full of warmth. "One more day." May's eyes widened slightly as she remembered their impending wedding.

"Oh... right..."

"Yup." Ash nodded, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "Which means, your dress should be ready."

"Right…" May echoed, her thoughts catching up with her, and her anxiety setting in again.

"You know, traditionally, the bride and groom aren't supposed to see each other the day before the wedding. What do you think? We can handle a day apart, right?" Ash asked, searching her face for reassurance. May nodded again, albeit a bit hesitantly.

"Yes..." Ash studied her for a moment, then gently cupped her cheeks, his touch warm and comforting.

"You sure?" he asked softly. May's heart raced, her face heating up as she blushed.

"...Yes..." With a tender smile, Ash leaned in and kissed her. May's eyes widened in surprise, but she soon melted into the kiss, feeling the love and reassurance in his touch.

"If you're sure..." Ash whispered as he pulled back slightly.

"Y-Yes..." May stammered, her cheeks flushed. Ash's smile remained soft and loving.

"I love you," he said, his voice full of sincerity.

"I love you too…" May replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Ash sat up and offered his hand to her.

"Let's get up." May watched him for a moment before accepting his hand, her blush deepening.

"Th-Thank you..."

"Of course," Ash said, helping her to her feet with ease. May gave a nervous smile, feeling her heart flutter. Ash responded with a reassuring peck on her cheek, causing her to blush even more. "Let's go get breakfast, then we can each head off on our own and tend to what we need to get done," he suggested, stepping outside.

"Ok..." May agreed, following him, feeling a sense of warmth and security in his presence. As they left, Pikachu glanced over at Glaceon, who was scratching behind her ear in that adorable way she always did. He couldn't help but smile at her, his heart feeling light. Glaceon noticed his gaze and smiled back. Pikachu, feeling a rush of affection, leaned over and licked her cheek. Glaceon blushed softly, her smile widening.

"I have a question to ask," Pikachu said, his voice tinged with nervous excitement.

"Go ahead," Glaceon replied, curious. Pikachu took a deep breath.

"Is there anywhere in the castle that you think you'd like to have a family in? Or... are you fine sharing this room?"

"Um..." Glaceon blushed harder, caught off guard by the question.

"H-hypothetically speaking," Pikachu added quickly, his own cheeks turning a rosy hue.

"I guess I hadn't thought about it..." Glaceon admitted, her mind racing. Pikachu gently took her paw, his touch reassuring.

"I'd love to have a family with you someday..." he confessed, his voice sincere.

"Really...?" Glaceon asked, her blush deepening.

"Yeah." Pikachu nodded. Glaceon's heart fluttered, her blush becoming more pronounced. "S-sorry..." Pikachu stammered.

"For what?" Glaceon asked, genuinely curious.

"For springing that on you..." Pikachu replied, feeling a bit sheepish.

"It's okay," Glaceon said softly. Pikachu leaned in and kissed her gently. Glaceon responded, kissing him back, feeling the warmth and tenderness in the moment. Pikachu stroked her cheek as they kissed, their purring and moaning blending into a symphony of affection. When Pikachu slowly pulled away, both were blushing.

"That was my first kiss..." he admitted.

"Mine too..." Glaceon replied, her heart racing.

"Well then, we can cross that off the list." Pikachu smiled.

"Guess so," Glaceon agreed with a shy smile. Pikachu nuzzled her, and she nuzzled him back, both feeling an overwhelming sense of contentment. Pikachu rested his head against her, a soft smile playing on his lips as Glaceon blushed and smiled in return. "I suppose we could get our own place," Glaceon suggested, her voice tentative but hopeful. Pikachu's smile widened.

"I'd like that," he said. Glaceon smiled back, feeling a sense of excitement about their future. Pikachu shook out his fur and hopped off the bed, ready to start the day.

"What do you want to do today?" Pikachu asked.

"Could you show me around?" Glaceon suggested.

"Of course!" Pikachu said enthusiastically. Glaceon smiled, feeling excited about the adventure ahead. Pikachu led the way out of the room, with Glaceon following close behind, ready to explore the castle together.

Meanwhile, after her breakfast with Ash was finished, May walked quietly down the hall, her footsteps echoing softly against the stone floor. She was lost in her thoughts when she saw Dawn approaching.

"Hi..." May greeted, her voice soft as she looked over at her. Dawn bowed respectfully.

"Good morning!" she said with a cheerful smile. May gave a weak smile in return, feeling a bit more at ease with Dawn's presence. She continued walking, her mind still preoccupied. "Miss?" Dawn called out, causing May to pause and look back.

"Yes?" May replied, turning to face her.

"Where are you headed?" Dawn asked, her curiosity evident.

"To a dress fitting," May answered, rubbing her arms nervously. Dawn nodded understandingly.

"Oh, good. That's why I was looking for you. It is ready for you."

"I'm sure it's lovely..." May said, trying to sound enthusiastic.

"Shall I escort you?" Dawn smiled warmly.

"I-If you wish..." May stammered, appreciating the offer but feeling a bit uncertain. Dawn nodded and fell into step beside her. Dawn led the way to Lisia's workspace, and once they arrived, May stepped into Lisia's workspace, her nerves evident in her tentative greeting. "Hi..."

"Good morning!" Lisia waved enthusiastically. May managed a small smile, her anxiety still gnawing at her. "I'm all done," Lisia announced with pride, bringing over a mannequin draped in a stunning two-piece dress, topped with a delicate veil and a flower crown.

"Wow..." May breathed, her eyes widening in awe.

"Like it?" Lisia asked, her smile broadening.

"It's so beautiful..." May said, her voice filled with genuine admiration.

"Would you like to try it on?" Lisia offered, her excitement palpable.

"S-Sure..." May agreed, though her voice wavered.

"Alright," Lisia said, motioning to a curtain where May could change. May began to put on the dress, but the tightness in her chest grew with each passing second. She leaned her forehead against the wall, her breath becoming shallow and uneven. She couldn't bring herself to look in the mirror, fearing her own reaction.

"May?" Dawn's voice cut through the fog of panic, filled with concern. "Are you alright?"

"I-I..." May stammered, unable to find the words.

"Maybe a cup of tea could settle your nerves," Dawn suggested gently.

"O-Ok... Don't panic... don't panic... don't panic..." May muttered to herself, trying to take deep breaths. Dawn stepped out briefly and returned with a hot cup of tea. May carefully took it with trembling hands, trying to steady herself.

"Take a deep breath," Dawn encouraged, rubbing her back in soothing circles. May shakily inhaled as deeply as she could, then took a tiny sip of the tea. Dawn watched her closely, holding her hands out in front of her in a gesture of support. "Better?" Dawn asked. May shook her head, her distress still evident. "Anything else I can do?" Dawn offered.

"I just... I can't look..." May admitted, her voice filled with fear.

"I believe in you, May," Dawn said, giving her a reassuring smile. "No need to worry. I've gotcha."

"But..." May hesitated, her fears still looming large.

"Take a deep breath, and I'll show you to the mirror," Dawn said softly. May took another deep breath and allowed Dawn to guide her to the mirror. She kept her eyes tightly shut, too afraid to see her reflection. "Go ahead and open," Dawn coaxed gently. May nervously opened her eyes and immediately tensed up upon seeing her reflection. "You're beautiful," Dawn whispered. May trembled, fighting the instinct to flee the sight of the wedding dress. Dawn rubbed her shoulder, offering silent support.

"I-It's lovely..." May said, though her voice was shaky.

"It suits you very well," Dawn assured her. May winced at her reflection, the panic still bubbling beneath the surface.

"I suppose..."

"It really does," Dawn said with a smile.

"I... I really need to take it off now..." May blurted out, the anxiety overwhelming her.

"Is it uncomfortable?" Lisia asked, concerned. May's eyes widened.

"Oh no, no! Please, not at all! I'm so sorry!" Lisia blinked in surprise.

"It's no trouble. You have nothing to apologize for!"

"Really, the dress is amazing! The most lovely I've ever seen! Please don't think I'm ungrateful...!" May rushed to explain, her panic evident. Lisia looked confused but tried to be understanding.

"Uhh..."

"Oh man..." May covered her face, feeling mortified.

"Are you alright?" Lisia asked gently.

"I have no idea..." May admitted, her voice cracking. Dawn watched, her face a mask of concern.

"No need to worry..." she said softly.

"I'm so sorry..." May sniffled.

"Still scary, huh?" Dawn asked.

"Very..." May admitted.

"Would you like me to get you anything?" Dawn offered again.

"No..." May said, shaking her head.

"Sure?" Dawn pressed gently.

"Yes... thank you..." May replied, trying to compose herself.

"Well... in that case, I think it's time that we work on something a bit more your speed." Dawn smiled kindly.

"Huh...?" May looked up, confused.

"How about we work on your vows?" Dawn suggested.

"Oh... o-ok..." May agreed hesitantly.

"You understand wedding vows, right?" Dawn asked.

"Yes... I just... never thought about them..." May confessed.

"Well, you make a commitment to serve your Master, don't you?" Dawn continued.

"Yes... but that just involves reciting the... er... never mind..." May trailed off, barely catching herself before she revealed her curse.

"Think of it as something similar, only based on your love for him instead," Dawn explained.

"I... I don't know how..." May said, feeling overwhelmed.

"We have time to work that out," Dawn assured her.

"O-Ok..." May said, feeling a small spark of hope. Dawn smiled warmly as May headed back to change, feeling a bit more at ease with the help of her Lady-in-Waiting. Especially as she finally took off the dress.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May slowly opened her eyes, blinking away the remnants of a restless sleep. The room was still dim, the soft light of dawn barely filtering through the curtains, but it still felt emptier without Ash there with her this time. Then, a gentle knock sounded at the door, pulling her from her thoughts.

"Come in..." she mumbled, her voice still thick with sleep. The door creaked open, and Dawn stepped inside, her presence a comforting, familiar one. "Mm…" May remained in bed, half-asleep and wrapped tightly in her blankets.

"Oh, come on now. Get up," Dawn chided, placing her hands on her hips in mock sternness.

"Huh...?" May responded, still groggy. Dawn sighed, a mixture of exasperation and affection.

"You're getting married in a few hours, silly." May's eyes snapped open, her entire body stiffening with the sudden jolt of reality. Dawn watched as May's face contorted with anxiety and sighed again, more softly this time. "Come on now," Dawn said, reaching for the blankets. May pulled the covers over her head, trying to retreat back into the warmth and safety of her bed. Dawn, undeterred, pulled the sheets down, exposing May to the cool morning air. May winced and grabbed a pillow, pulling it over her head instead. Dawn groaned, her patience wearing thin.

"I don't think I can do this..." May's voice was muffled by the pillow, but the fear in her words was unmistakable.

"May..." Dawn said gently.

"It's too much..." May mumbled. Dawn took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully.

"It's going to be alright. Let's just take this one step at a time."

"How do you know...? How do you know it's going to be alright...?" May's voice was small, almost childlike in its vulnerability.

"The last thing anyone wants is for you two to have a bad time on your wedding day, May," Dawn reassured her.

"I'm not worried about them or anyone else..."

"It's just a ceremony of your unity, followed by a party all about you. Worst thing that could happen is that everyone gets silly and starts throwing cake at each other, and there's a massive cleaning bill."

"...I just feel so scared...I'm petrified..." May let out a shaky breath.

"The first step is getting out of bed," Dawn said, her tone firm but kind. May held the pillow a little tighter, reluctant to let go of her cocoon of safety. Dawn reached out and took May's hand, giving it a gentle tug. "Come on." May winced as she was pulled out of bed, her body resisting the motion. Slowly, she met Dawn's eyes, her fear evident and raw. "You can do this," Dawn said, her voice filled with quiet confidence.

"...I wish it were that easy..." May whispered.

"The next step is believing it can be."

"...I don't think I can, though..."

"Do you want to?" Dawn asked, her eyes searching May's face.

"Yes..."

"Then you're already halfway there." May rubbed her arm, her anxiety still palpable. "Tell yourself that you can, and you'll start believing it over time."

"But it's today..."

"Tell yourself you can."

"I...can..."

"You can what?"

"I can...do this..."

"Louder." Dawn smiled a little, the corners of her mouth lifting in encouragement.

"Why...?"

"Say it louder," Dawn urged, her smile growing. May hesitated, looking at Dawn uncertainly.

"I can do this..."

"Loooouder," Dawn insisted playfully.

"Dawn, please, you don't need to-"

"Louder!"

"I can do this..." May repeated, her voice growing stronger. Dawn gave her an expectant look, silently urging her on. "I can do this...!" May exclaimed, even as her voice still shook.

"There you go." Dawn beamed at her, pride and affection shining in her eyes. May let out a nervous giggle, the tension in her body melting a little. Dawn giggled too, the sound light and infectious.

"I guess...we should get it over with," May said, her smile hesitant but genuine.

"I'll prepare a bath for you," Dawn offered, her smile warm and reassuring.

"Oh...th-thank you..." May stammered, her gratitude evident. Dawn smiled back, the bond between them strengthening in the quiet moments of support and encouragement. She stepped away to prepare the bath, leaving May to gather her thoughts. May looked out the window at the garden, the early morning light casting a serene glow over the flowers. She took a deep breath, feeling a flicker of hope amidst the fear. Today was the day, and she hoped she could do this. One step at a time.

Soon after, Dawn was gently brushing May's hair, each stroke deliberate and soothing. May sat still, trying to keep her anxiety at bay.

"Your hair is lovely, May," Dawn said, smiling warmly.

"It's nothing special... but thank you," May replied, a hint of a smile touching her lips.

"It's about time." Dawn returned the small smile. "You should get dressed," Dawn suggested, stepping back to give her space.

"Ok..." May agreed, standing up and walking over to the closet. Dawn moved to help her, setting up the dress with careful precision. May gulped as she looked at the intricate gown.

"It's beautiful." Dawn noticed and smiled reassuringly.

"It certainly is lovely..." May admitted, her fingers trembling slightly as she began to change. Dawn assisted her with the dress, ensuring every detail was perfect. May hugged her arms a little, seeking comfort in the familiar gesture.

"I think this is Lisia's greatest piece yet!" Dawn exclaimed with enthusiasm.

"It is very beautiful..." May nodded. Dawn smiled encouragingly.

"Now stay still." She pulled out a makeup kit, ready to add the final touches. May gulped, feeling a wave of apprehension. Dawn noticed and paused. "You okay?"

"We... didn't have these things in my ti- ...in my town..." May confessed, stumbling over her words as she attempted to keep her past hidden from the other girl.

"No?" Dawn asked, intrigued.

"No..."

"How interesting."

"Sorry..." May said, her voice small.

"Nothing to apologize for," Dawn reassured her, giving a weak smile. She guided May to a mirror, showing her the transformation. "C'mon, give us a smile, May," Dawn encouraged, smiling herself. May gave a very nervous smile, her reflection mirroring her inner turmoil. "You can do better than that," Dawn coaxed.

"But this is how I feel..."

"You look far prettier when you smile."

"He says that too…" May said softly, a blush creeping onto her cheeks as she referenced Ash.

"It's true," Dawn affirmed. May's blush deepened, and Dawn squealed slightly, delighted. "You're glowing!" May unintentionally blushed harder, trying to calm herself down and make the blush fade. Dawn's smile widened. "Come on."

"Huh...?"

"Let's get you over to the right place. Only a little under an hour to go, and people are pouring into the ballroom." May gulped again, the reality of the situation sinking in. Dawn took her hand, escorting her towards the ballroom. May fidgeted with her hands as they got closer. "You can do this," Dawn said firmly.

"I..." May struggled to find the words.

"Say iiiit," Dawn prompted.

"I'm trying... the words won't come out..."

"Repeat after me," Dawn instructed. May looked at her, seeking strength. "I..."

"I..."

"Can..."

"Can..."

"Do..."

"Do..."

"This..."

"This..."

"I can do this," Dawn repeated.

"I can do this..." May echoed.

"You can do this!" Dawn said with conviction. May gave a small smile, feeling a flicker of confidence. Dawn squeezed her hand. "You can do it!"

"I'll... at least do my best," May promised, her voice gaining strength.

"That's all anyone can ask for." Dawn smiled, her eyes shining with pride. May gave her another small smile, feeling a bit more ready to face the day.

Ash stood at the altar in his finest clothes, every inch the regal figure expected of a soon-to-be king. His nerves were surprisingly calm, and he turned to smile at Luna, who was watching him with an amused glint in her eye.

"Nervous?" she asked, a playful smile on her lips.

"Not really," Ash replied, his confidence unwavering.

"Glad to hear it," Luna said, returning his smile. Delia, standing nearby, nodded to the organ player. As the first notes of the wedding march began, Ash turned toward the aisle, his heart rate quickening in anticipation. Meanwhile, May stood behind the grand doors, feeling her body tense as they slowly opened. The grandeur of the ceremony washed over her, and for a moment, she felt paralyzed. Dawn, standing beside her, gave her a gentle nudge.

"Showtime," she whispered. With a deep breath, May forced her feet to move forward. Each step felt heavy, but she pressed on, eyes locked on Ash waiting at the altar. Ash's jaw dropped when he saw her, his eyes widening in awe.

"She's gorgeous..." he whispered to Luna, who giggled quietly. Delia smiled, her pride evident. Ash couldn't take his eyes off May as she made her way down the aisle, each step bringing her closer to him. "You're beautiful," Ash whispered when she finally reached him.

"Th-Thank you..." May stammered, blushing furiously. Ash smiled wide, his heart swelling with love and pride. The priest stepped forward, signaling the start of the ceremony.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today for the coronation of our new King, and the holy union between him and Lady Maple. We shall begin, as always, with the coronation and the passing of the crown. Prince Ash Ketchum of Kanto, do you solemnly swear to rule over this kingdom and her people with loyalty and kindness? To put the welfare of all her citizens above all in everything you do for the rest of your natural born days?"

"I swear," Ash said, his voice steady and sure.

"Queen Delia, do you confirm that this is the person you wish to take over the Kingdom?" the priest asked.

"I do," Delia affirmed.

"Then we shall pass the power." Delia removed her own crown and set it on a pedestal. The priest picked up the King's Crown from the other pedestal and held it over Ash's head.

"People of Kanto, I present to you your new King, King Ash Ketchum of Kanto," he declared, placing the crown on Ash's head. Ash took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the crown and the responsibility it symbolized. Luna and the rest of the crowd applauded; the room filled with the sound of celebration. May gave a tiny smile, thinking to herself that the title seemed to suit him well. Ash blushed slightly, noticing her smile.

"Of course, no King is complete without his Queen." The priest continued. "Which is why we also gather for the union of King Ash and Lady Maple. King Ash, do you wish for this woman to rule beside you as your Queen?"

"I do," Ash said, his eyes never leaving May's.

"Then allow her to hear your vows to her in your own words." Ash took a deep breath, his gaze locked onto May's.

"May...the life you've been forced to live is...neither fair nor right...let alone the treatment you've had to endure. You have such a precious heart, and without you, I wouldn't be standing here today. I love you, so, so much, and I promise, every wrong you've had to endure, every drop of pain, every indignity... I'll repay tenfold with all the love, kindness, and care you deserve. I would give my life for you, I would cross the globe for you, and I promise you that in our new lives together, things will change for the better. I will give you the best life that can be provided for you. Whether you believe that you deserve it or not, I promise that you do. I love you more than anything, and that's more than enough reason to want you to have the best life you can." May blushed profusely, her heart swelling with emotion.

"Lady Maple, do you accept the position of Queen that has been offered to you?" The priest turned to her. May choked back her fear as best she could and finally forced herself to speak.

"I do."

"Then allow him to hear your vows to him in your own words." May took a deep breath, her eyes meeting Ash's.

"...I can't claim to know what you see in me, or why you think that I'll be a good Queen or wife, or even that I'm not still terrified right now... but you're the only person I've ever met that is willing to look beyond what I am. Even I thought there was nothing beyond it anymore... a part of me still does... but it's because of you that I'm at least willing to look. What I do know is that I love you. You've done more for me than I ever thought possible for anyone to do for a lowly slave. I can only hope to be as worthy of a crown and that honor as I know you are, but it's because of you that I'm willing to try. So for all you've done for me, and all you promise to continue to do, I will do my best to live up to it." Ash smiled softly, his heart full.

"May we have the rings, please?" the priest requested. Ash looked towards Luna, the Ringbearer, who presented them with the rings on a velvet pillow. The priest continued, "King Ash, place the ring on Lady Maple's finger as a representation of your commitment and love to her as one without end, saying, 'With this ring, I thee wed.'" Ash took the ring and slipped it onto May's finger.

"With this ring, I thee wed," he said, his voice filled with emotion. May blushed a bit more, feeling the weight of his words and the ring on her finger. The priest then turned to her.

"Lady Maple, place the ring on King Ash's finger as a representation of the love that encircles you both forever, saying, 'With this ring, I thee wed.'" May took the ring and, after taking the deepest breath she could muster, slipped the ring onto his left ring finger, being careful not to touch the cursed ring on his other finger.

"With this ring... I thee wed," she said softly. Ash smiled, his heart brimming with love.

"If there is anyone who can find reason why these two should not be wed, speak now or forever hold your peace." The audience chamber was silent, respecting the tradition. "Then we shall proceed. King Ash Ketchum, do you take Lady May Maple to be your wedded wife, to live together in marriage? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and forsaking all others, be faithful only to her, for as long as you both shall live?"

"I do," Ash said, his voice steady and full of conviction.

"And Lady May Maple, do you take King Ash Ketchum to be your wedded husband, to live together in marriage? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and forsaking all others, be faithful only to him so long as you both shall live?" May took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment.

"I do," she said, her voice clear and determined.

"Then it is my honor to pronounce this couple Man and Wife. You may kiss the bride." Ash wrapped his arms around May's waist and kissed her happily. May kissed him back as the crowd erupted in cheers. Ash leaned further into the kiss, arcing her back slightly, while May wrapped her arms around his neck to keep herself from falling. As the kiss deepened, Ash moaned softly, his hand gently stroking her spine. May shivered and pulled away slightly, needing air. Ash smiled softly, looking into her eyes with love and adoration. May returned the small smile, feeling a sense of peace and belonging she had thought was no longer allowed to be her's. As the applause echoed through the hall, Delia approached the newlyweds with her crown in hand. Ash smiled warmly at his mother, and May turned to look, curiosity and awe in her eyes. Delia placed the Queen's Crown on May's head and then stepped aside, beaming with pride.

"It is my pleasure to announce for the very first time, King Ash and Queen May Ketchum of Kanto," Delia declared. The crowd erupted in applause once more. May smiled a little, the title feeling surreal. Ash took her hand, holding it gently. She blushed softly as he kissed her cheek, giving him a small, appreciative smile.

"Care for a dance?" Ash asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he and May arrived in the ballroom for their wedding reception.

"I don't really know how..." May admitted, feeling a bit nervous.

"That's perfectly fine," Ash assured her, his smile never wavering. He took her hand, and she squeezed it lightly, seeking reassurance. The musicians began to play as Ash led her onto the dance floor. May gulped a little, feeling a mixture of excitement and fear. Ash began to lead the dance, his movements confident and graceful. "Follow my lead," he said softly.

"Ok..." May replied, focusing on matching his steps. As she started to get the hang of it, she gave a small smile.

"Now you're getting the hang of it," Ash encouraged, leaning in to kiss her. May kissed him back, feeling her nervousness melt away. Ash spun her around happily, and she giggled a little, surprising herself. "I just made you laugh," Ash said, grinning.

"Heh..." May blushed a little. Ash nuzzled her nose, making her blush even harder. He smiled, clearly enjoying the moment.

"I love you," he whispered.

"I love you too..." May replied, her heart full. They continued to dance, with May resting her head on Ash's shoulder. He stepped slowly, allowing her to stay close to him. She felt a sense of calm and belonging as he rubbed her back gently. "It's a lot to take in..." May admitted softly.

"Yeah..." Ash agreed.

"I'm sorry if I did any of it wrong..." she said, her voice tinged with worry. Ash shook his head and kissed her, moaning softly. May blushed in surprise but kissed him back, moaning softly in return. They held each other close, savoring the moment. When May slowly pulled away for air, Ash looked into her eyes, smiling. "Shall we continue?" he asked.

"Ok..." May agreed, feeling more confident.

"Think you've got the hang of it?" Ash asked.

"I-I think so..." she replied.

"Great," Ash said, smiling as he began the dance again. May followed his lead as best she could, blushing softly. He held her close, and she gave a small smile. "It looks good on you," Ash said, his voice warm.

"It is a lovely dress..." May replied, her cheeks turning pink.

"I meant the smile," Ash clarified.

"Oh..." May blushed harder.

"Of course, you're a real knockout in the dress too," Ash added with a chuckle.

"Th-Thank you..." May's face turned a bright red.

"Hm?" Ash looked at her curiously.

"For the compliments..." May said softly.

"It's true." Ash smiled. May smiled softly, feeling more at ease. Ash let go of her hand, and she looked up at him, curious about what he had in mind. "Wanna grab a bite to eat?" he suggested.

"Ok..." May agreed. They walked over to the food table together, Ash's hand lightly resting on her back. He smiled as they approached the spread of delicious dishes, and May gave a small smile, feeling a sense of contentment and joy in his presence. Ash grabbed a plate and began piling food onto it, looking over at May with a playful grin. She followed his lead, cautiously selecting items for herself.

"Mind working your magic a little if we run low on food?" Ash asked, his tone light but earnest. May hesitated, glancing around the crowded room.

"B-but... the staff will know they didn't bring it in..."

"Don't worry," Ash reassured her. "With everyone so distracted, it would be hard to notice. Besides, there's always the possibility of more things being brought in from the kitchen itself. No one would think anything of it."

"But they'll know they didn't..." May's voice trailed off, worry creasing her brow.

"Trust me, May, ok? I won't ever ask you to put your secret in danger." Ash said with a gentle smile.

"Ok…Sorry..." May apologized, looking down. Ash reached out and held her cheek, his touch warm and comforting.

"It's okay." May blushed, feeling a little more at ease. She gave a small smile, appreciating his understanding. "Get what you want?" Ash asked.

"Yes..." May replied, nodding.

"Alright then." Ash smiled and guided her to their seats, taking her hand as they walked. She blushed harder, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Enjoy...my Queen," Ash said with a small smile as they sat down. May's face turned a bright shade of red. She quietly took her seat beside him, feeling the weight of the title but also the warmth of his affection. Ash dug into his food with enthusiasm. "Soooo goooood!" he exclaimed, his tone full of delight. May smiled softly, finding his excitement infectious. She began to eat, feeling more relaxed. Ash's eating style, dorky and unpretentious, made her giggle a little. He looked up, blinking in confusion. "Hm? Did I say something funny?"

"N-No..." May replied, her cheeks flushing again.

"Something got you to laugh," Ash said, raising an eyebrow.

"I-It's nothing...I just love you." May said, looking down at her plate.

"I love you too." Ash smiled at her and continued eating, glancing up occasionally to take in the lively scene around them. Luna was giggling as she danced on the dancefloor, and Delia was shaking hands and greeting guests. Ash chuckled, feeling content. May watched him, her heart swelling with affection. When he looked back at her, she couldn't help but smile a little. Gathering her courage, she leaned in and placed a timid peck on his lips. Ash looked at her in surprise, then smiled warmly as she tried to hide her blushing face behind her hair. "You know I can see you, right?"

"Y-Yes," May stammered, blushing and trying to hide behind her hair.

"And that I can see you're blushing?" Ash teased gently.

"For your information, I do that a lot since we first met..." May admitted, her face turning even redder.

"Oh, really? I couldn't possibly have noticed," Ash said, feigning ignorance. May blushed harder, feeling both embarrassed and happy. Ash moved her hair out of the way and looked into her eyes. "Hi."

"Hi..." she replied softly, her heart racing. Ash smiled and leaned in to kiss her. She kissed him back, feeling a wave of warmth and love. Ash stroked her cheek, and she moaned softly, lost in the moment. When Ash slowly pulled away, May smiled softly. "Still feel jittery?"

"A little..." she admitted.

"Well, I'm noticing a distinct lack of things blowing up," Ash joked. May blushed in embarrassment, but Ash's teasing tone made her smile. "And I seem to notice that a certain someone is enjoying herself," he continued.

"W-Well, I..." May stammered.

"Could May be having, gasp, fun?" Ash said, faking shock.

"I am... but I wouldn't mind a quiet break either..." May blushed harder.

"There'll be plenty of quiet time later tonight," Ash said with a wink. May blushed slightly, her mind racing with possibilities.

"Doesn't sound like those activities will be quiet..."

"Guess we'll have to see, won't we?" Ash grinned.

"Guess so..." May replied, blushing and smiling. Ash's smile widened as he held her hand again.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

Soon enough, Brock stepped out into the ballroom, wheeling the wedding cake into the room. The elaborate dessert immediately caught everyone's attention.

"That looks great!" Ash's eyes lit up. May nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Nicely done, Brock!" Ash called out, grinning widely.

"Thank you kindly, your majesty." Brock gave a mock bow to which Ash smiled. "Shall I, or would the happy couple care to do it?" Brock asked, pulling out a knife.

"Any preference?" Ash turned to May. May shook her head. "Maybe just for our slices," Ash suggested with a small smile.

"Ok." May nodded. Ash took the knife and handed it to May.

"Place your hand on mine. We'll do it together." Blushing softly, May did as he instructed, and together they carefully cut two slices for themselves. Ash set the slices down beside them just as Luna approached.

"Hey, Ashy?"

"Yeah?"

"What flavor did you pick for the cake? Chocolate?"

"Strawberry," Ash replied.

"Why?" Luna raised an eyebrow. "We always made chocolate when we were younger."

"It was what May and I agreed on," Ash explained. "Last I checked, 'Luna' wasn't the name of the groom or bride."

"Or maybe you've just lost that big appetite you're known for. Mellowed out a bit and all, and now you've lost the stomach for a little cake-eating competition." Luna smirked a little.

"What does that have to do with flavor preference? Your head's in space, Miss Luna." Ash grinned. Luna flicked a little cake onto his nose.

"Better to be in space than in the cake." Ash blinked, wiping his nose.

"Did you just do what I think you did?"

"I suppose that depends." Luna took a bite of her slice. "What are you going to do about it?"

"You could have gotten my best suit dirty." Ash tossed a tiny bit of cake at her cheek.

"And you could've gotten my favorite dress stained," Luna retorted, throwing a slightly bigger chunk. Ash winced slightly as icing splattered on his face and crumbs fell on his suit.

"Hey!" He threw a chunk at her, but it missed and hit Delia instead.

"Ack!" Delia exclaimed. May's eyes widened in shock.

"S-sorry, Mom..!" Ash stammered. Delia turned toward her son and then launched a slice right back at him. "Ack!" Ash cried as the cake splatted on his face, with bits falling under May's top.

"Eek!" May squealed. Ash stood up, wiping off his face, while May looked at the three of them in shock. Luna started laughing.

"This means war!" she shouted, grabbing a handful of cake and flinging it at Ash. He dodged, but it hit a guest instead, sparking a full-blown food fight. Brock chuckled softly to himself and headed to the kitchen to get the inevitably needed towels and rags. Ash laughed, trying to dodge the flying sweets.

"Could use a little help here!" he called out as a piece of cake hit May's cheek.

"Ah!" May exclaimed.

"No backing out now," Ash said, helping her up and kissing her cheek, licking off the icing.

"B-but..." May stammered.

"Joining in the fun won't cost you more service time, May," Ash whispered. "Master's request?"

"But... but I thought weddings were supposed to be..." May winced a little. Ash chuckled.

"The formality went out the window the second Luna opened her mouth. Now come on! Let's team up against these guys!" He tossed a bit of cake. Nervously, May followed his lead. Ash threw some cake into Luna's face while she was distracted.

"Eek!" Luna laughed. "Ashy, you're dead!" She ran towards him.

"Treachery!" Ash laughed, running away. Luna nailed him in the back of the head with a handful of ice cream. "YEEAAAAAA!" Ash shouted, his eyes shooting open from the cold. Luna laughed hysterically. May gasped in surprise as Ash tackled Luna, wrestling with her while laughing. "May, help!"

"I-I don't know what to..."

"Start throwing sweets!" Ash laughed as a spoonful of ice cream splattered onto May's stomach.

"Aack!" May shivered.

"I thought you couldn't get cold!" Ash grinned.

"Doesn't mean I can't be surprised..." May closed her eyes and randomly fired some food into the crowd, hitting Brock's wife, Lucy.

"Oh!" Lucy laughed. Misty joined in, throwing cake at May, who ducked the throw.

"Same team here!" Ash shouted, now completely covered in sweets. May smiled a little and giggled softly. Ash grabbed a fresh cluster of cake and pressed it to her chest, making some of it slip under her bra. "This was meant for you."

"Ack!" May exclaimed.

"I always thought you were sweet," Ash said with a smile at his own bad joke.

"Heh..." May responded. Ash pecked her lips. May pecked back as ice cream was flung into her back. "Eek!" Ash laughed.

"We'd better get back in the action!"

"O-Ok..." May replied. Ash smirked, and May blushed. He chuckled as she hugged him. Surprised, he looked back at her.

"I love you..." May whispered, holding onto him.

"I love you too," Ash said softly, hugging her back. He kissed her, and she kissed him back. He poked her lips, and she allowed him in, their tongues playing together. They both moaned softly before May slowly pulled away for air. Ash smiled softly. "This is nice..." May nodded slightly. "Shame we didn't get to actually eat dessert, though," Ash remarked.

"Heh..." May responded.

"Of course, if you don't clean up, the two of us could have our own little dessert in private." Ash whispered. May blushed heavily as Ash grazed a spot of bare skin that hadn't been covered in cake or ice cream. "I do think that I would like to try giving the actual dessert a second attempt before that though," Ash said.

"I see..." May replied.

"Are you okay with letting Brock in on your magic?"

"B-but your Mom said..."

"Well... he's my friend... and she's not queen anymore."

"I-I don't know..." May looked at him nervously.

"We can trust him..." Ash assured her. May rubbed her arms, feeling uncertain. Just then, Pikachu wobbled over to them, his face hardly visible under a massive chunk of icing.

"Sorry, Pikachu..." May sweatdropped.

"Pika!" Pikachu's muffled voice came from under the icing. Pikachu shook out his fur, getting more cake and ice cream on them, and gave a goofy smile. May gave a small smile in return.

"Gee, thanks, buddy." Ash laughed. "I think things are calming down."

"Seems so..." May agreed.

"Well then? Shall I ask?"

"I guess so..." May replied. Ash kissed her cheek, making her blush again. Then he walked over to Brock, with May following him.

"Hey, Brock," Ash called out. Brock looked over and chuckled.

"Having fun?"

"You could say that." Ash grinned.

"Good." Brock laughed. Ash glanced at the cake remnants and sweatdropped.

"Shame about the cake."

"It's alright," Brock said with a reassuring smile.

"I guess there's no chance of a backup?" Ash sighed.

"Heh. Unfortunately not. We don't have the supplies to make another one. Sorry, Your Majesty."

"Actually, I might have a solution…" Ash said, leaning closer to Brock.

"Oh?" Brock raised an eyebrow.

"Keep this between us, alright..?" Ash whispered.

"Sure," Brock replied, intrigued.

"May is magic... she could create a replacement dessert in an instant, exactly how you made it..." Ash explained.

"Really?" Brock's eyes widened in surprise. May gulped, looking nervous.

"Yeah." Ash continued, "...If we said you made a second batch in case we got short, or sibling banter happened..."

"I can do that if you want." Brock nodded thoughtfully. "But are you sure?"

"Yeah." Ash chuckled. "Too much of a shame to not actually eat any of it."

"Alright." Brock smiled. Ash turned to May.

"I wish for a replacement dessert out in the kitchen, exactly the same as the last one." May snapped her fingers, making a perfect replica of the first wedding cake appear on the table. Ash pecked her cheek, making her blush. Brock shook his head, impressed.

"Impressive. Though that'd probably put me out of a job." He chuckled.

"Don't worry about that." Ash grinned.

"I-I'm sorry..." May stammered.

"Please don't be, Your Highness," Brock said gently. May winced a little at the title. Ash noticed her discomfort and took her hand. "Still adjusting?"

"Yeah..." May admitted.

"Let's go sit back down for now," Ash suggested.

"Ok..." May nodded, following him back to their seats. Ash sat beside her, noticing her blush.

"Remember... if it's easier for you... even though we're married... You can keep calling me Master... if it's something you need..." Ash said softly. May nodded slightly, looking down. Ash sighed. "I understand," he said, kissing her gently. May looked troubled.

"I wish I could stop... but even thinking about it makes me sick to my stomach..."

"May..."

"I'm sorry..." May's voice wavered. Ash cupped her cheeks, making her blush.

"Stop trying then... I'm happy to be your Master... after all... you're the Mistress of my heart. Let's just embrace things the way they are..." He kissed her tenderly. May blushed a bright red as Ash slowly pulled away, smiling softly at her. She gave a small, nervous smile in return. They looked over as Brock brought in the new cake and ice cream, wheeling it over to them.

"Your Highnesses, the cake you requested," he announced, pretending as though he had made it himself.

"Thanks, Brock." Ash nodded.

"An impressive stroke of foresight to prepare another cake. Well done, Brock." Queen Delia, commented, noticing the new cake.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Brock said with a nod.

"He does know Luna and me pretty well..." Ash remarked, passing a slice to May.

"Thank you..." May said softly, starting to eat. Ash took a slice for himself and began eating.

"Delicious."

"Definitely," May agreed, smiling softly.

"Awesome job, Brock!" Ash grinned at Brock.

"I'm glad you like it," Brock replied, smiling back. May finished her piece, feeling satisfied.

"It's wonderful." Ash nodded, smiling.

"Well, I do believe that's that." He turned to May. "Would you like to retire for the evening?"

"Yes, Master…" May gave a small nod. Ash stood up and addressed the room.

"Ah... Everyone?" The room gradually turned its attention to him. "I, uh, would like to thank you all for coming. Sorry for the mess..." He sweatdropped, causing a few chuckles. "Hope you've enjoyed yourselves, but May and I would like to turn in for the evening and get cleaned off. Go ahead and continue enjoying the festivities and any remaining food, but May and I are going to depart." A soft applause responded to his declaration. "Thank you all and have a good night," Ash concluded, lifting May into his arms bridal style. May blushed in surprise. "Custom to do this at weddings," Ash explained with a smile.

"O-Ok..." May stammered, blushing. Ash carried her out of the ballroom and towards their bedroom, leaving the lively celebration behind them.

"Hey." Ash smiled warmly at her.

"H-hi..." May blushed and stammered.

"On to dessert, right?" Ash smirked slightly.

"R-Right..." May blushed even more heavily. Ash gently set her down on the bed and began removing his suit.

"Let's take this slowly, why don't we?"

"O-Ok..." May replied, her voice trembling slightly. Ash climbed on top of her, his eyes filled with love and desire. May blushed heavily as he leaned in to kiss her. She kissed him back, her hands running through his hair. Ash moaned softly, and May moaned back at him. He poked her lips with his tongue, and she allowed him inside. Their tongues danced together, and Ash dominated hers, making her shiver with delight. Ash pulled away for air, looking into her eyes. May gave him a small, shy smile, which he returned.

"I love you so much..." Ash whispered.

"I love you too..." May replied softly.

"I love you more," Ash said with a playful grin.

"I love you the most..." May countered.

"That's sweet, May." Ash smiled softly. She blushed a bit harder as Ash licked the icing off her cheek, making her giggle a little. "Very sweet," he murmured.

"It is a good cake..." May nodded. Ash chuckled and leaned in towards her, his breath warm against her skin.

"And you're even sweeter," he whispered, his lips brushing against hers. May's blush deepened as she felt his love and desire.

"Master..."

"Yes, my love?" he whispered back, his eyes locking onto hers.

"I... I'm ready," she said softly, her voice trembling with anticipation. Ash smiled, kissing her gently.

"Then let's savor this moment together..." May closed her eyes, feeling his love enveloping her as they shared their intimate moment, making their wedding night truly unforgettable.

The next morning, in a dimly lit tavern just outside the kingdom, two figures sat at a corner table, their hushed conversation drowned out by the ambient noise. Captain Phantom leaned in, speaking in a low, conspiratorial tone.

"And you have no idea how your little ruse was exposed?"

"Not one." Gary shook his head, frustration evident on his face. Phantom's eyes gleamed with a hint of malice.

"What if I told you, you were cheated out by magic?"

"Excuse me?" Gary blinked in confusion.

"The Prince's slave. She's magical. Once belonged to my great-grandfather before she was stolen away." Phantom continued.

"What?!" Gary's expression shifted to one of shock. Phantom leaned back slightly, a smirk playing on his lips.

"There are two types of people in this world. Those who are cheated out, and those who do the cheating."

"That little...!" Gary's fist clenched.

"As far as we know, you could be the true heir to the throne, and he used her powers to change history, to make him king." Phantom's gaze hardened.

"Ketchum...!" Gary's eyes narrowed. Phantom leaned in closer, his voice a deadly whisper.

"I can offer you a chance to take back what is yours."

"What? How?" Gary's eyes flicked to Phantom's. Phantom's smile widened.

"You know the kingdom and can assist us in getting in. If you help coordinate the attack so that I can reclaim what's mine by right, I can use her magic to restore what's yours."

"Why? What's in it for you?" Gary's suspicion was palpable. Phantom's expression grew cold.

"It's like I said. She belonged to my family. The Prince's ring, it's what binds her to him. Help me get her back, and I'll restore your honor," he explained. Gary considered the offer, his mind racing with possibilities and vengeance. Finally, he nodded.

"...Fine." Phantom nodded back, a satisfied glint in his eyes. He placed a few coins on the table and signaled a waitress.

"This round's on me." As the waitress approached, the two men sat in silence, a dark pact forged between them. The seeds of betrayal and ambition had been sown, setting the stage for the events that would soon unfold in the kingdom.

To be Continued...

Chapter Text

May slowly opened her eyes, the morning light filtering softly through the curtains. She blinked a few times, adjusting to the brightness. As her vision cleared, she saw Ash beside her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. She couldn't help but smile back, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. Ash pulled her closer, wrapping her in a warm embrace. May giggled softly, the sound filling the room as Ash's eyes slowly opened to see her.

"Good morning," Ash whispered, his voice tender and affectionate.

"Good morning..." May replied, her voice still thick with sleep. Ash leaned in and pecked her lips, a simple yet loving gesture. May returned the kiss, her heart fluttering.

"How'd you sleep?" Ash asked, his smile widening.

"Good," May answered, her own smile soft and content. Ash's eyes twinkled with pride.

"You conquered your fear," he said, his voice filled with admiration. May's smile faltered slightly.

"There's still some of it back there...that something's going to go wrong..."

"The wedding is over," Ash reassured her, cupping her cheeks in his hands.

"Day one in a long line of days to go through..." May murmured, a hint of apprehension in her voice. Ash's hands were warm against her skin.

"I'm right here," he said firmly.

"I know...I see you..." May replied, her eyes locking onto his. Ash playfully covered her eyes.

"Do you?" he teased.

"I did..." she giggled. He kissed her cheek, causing her to blush once more. Then, he got up from the bed. May watched him with a mixture of admiration and curiosity.

"I ah, wish all the clothes were clean," Ash said, a sheepish smile on his face. May snapped her fingers, and the clothes were instantly clean. "Thank you," Ash said, genuinely grateful.

"You're welcome..." May replied, her heart swelling with love. Ash leaned down to kiss her again, and she kissed back, savoring the moment. He then got dressed, while May laid her head back down, watching him with a contented smile. Ash looked at her, his eyes filled with warmth.

"Are you going to get up or stay under the sheets all day?" he asked, climbing back beside her.

"I don't know...I don't know what a Queen does..." May admitted, her voice soft and uncertain. Ash kissed her, his lips conveying all the love and reassurance he felt. She kissed him back, her confidence slowly building. He stroked her arm, causing her to moan softly. His fingers trailed along her bare skin, sending shivers down her spine. She moaned louder, her body responding to his touch. Ash poked her lips playfully, and she allowed him inside. They played with each other's tongues, their passion growing. Slowly, he pulled away, leaving her blushing softly. Ash gave her a small smile before sitting up. May lay on her back, watching him with a mixture of affection and curiosity.

"Well, if you're so determined to stay naked all day in bed," he teased, smirking. May blushed hard, her cheeks a deep shade of red. Ash leaned down and kissed her navel, then her cheek, causing her to shiver with delight as he tried to persuade her out of the bed. "Aaaaaany day now," Ash said with a smile, grazing her thigh. May shivered and blushed again, but did not remove herself from the bed. "Someone's comfortable," Ash noted, his smile never fading.

"Just...nice to have quiet after all that...partying," May admitted, her voice filled with relief.

"I understand," Ash said, his tone compassionate. "Go on and relax then," Ash encouraged her.

"But you said…" May started, only to be interrupted by Ash tapping her nose.

"Take a day to unwind," he insisted.

"What about you...?" she asked, her eyes searching his.

"I have to go," Ash said, a hint of regret in his voice. "I'm King now, remember?"

"Oh...ok..." May said, her heart sinking slightly.

"I'll be back before you know it," Ash promised, his smile reassuring.

"I hope so..." May whispered, her voice filled with longing.

"Is that right?" Ash chuckled, finding her attachment endearing.

"I feel...safer with you..." May nodded.

"I love you, May..." Ash said softly, his eyes filled with sincerity.

"I love you too..." she replied, her voice equally tender. They hugged each other tightly, their embrace filled with love and promise.

"When I get back, I'll do what I can to make our time meaningful," Ash vowed.

"Ok..." May said, her heart lifting. Ash kissed her cheek one last time before letting go. He put on his crown, ready to face the day. May watched him leave, a small smile playing on her lips as she anticipated his return.

Later on in the day, towards the end of the afternoon, May was still in the bedroom. Now she sat by the window, gazing out at the world beyond. The soft light of the afternoon sun illuminated her face, casting a warm glow. She heard the door open and turned around to see Ash entering the room.

"What do you know, you're dressed," Ash said with a smile, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Heh...I guess..." May replied, a small, shy smile tugging at her lips. Ash walked over to her, his presence filling the room with warmth. He wrapped his arms around her, and she rested her head against his chest, feeling his steady heartbeat.

"I've got you..." Ash murmured, his voice a soothing balm to her soul. May smiled softly, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. Ash leaned down and kissed her forehead, his lips gentle and loving. "Someone's looking brighter," he observed, his smile widening.

"Thank you..." May whispered, her gratitude evident in her eyes. Ash held her close, their embrace a cocoon of comfort and love. May rested her head against him, feeling the tension of the past days melt away. Ash shut his eyes, savoring the moment of peace. May smiled softly, watching as he nodded off, his breathing slow and even. She held him close, cherishing the intimacy of their connection. Ash stirred and smiled, his eyes still closed.

"Better?" he asked, his voice a gentle rumble. May nodded, her heart full. "Great," Ash said, satisfaction evident in his tone.

"Thank you…" May said softly, her voice filled with emotion.

"I love you, May," Ash whispered, his eyes opening to meet hers.

"I love you too," she replied, her voice equally tender. Ash helped her down from the window seat, his hands steady and reassuring. May smiled a little, feeling a surge of warmth and affection. Ash tapped her nose, a playful grin on his face. She giggled, the sound light and joyful.

"There it is," Ash said, grinning.

"Hey..." May protested lightly, her voice tinged with amusement.

"What, am I forbidden to make you laugh?" Ash asked, holding her playfully.

"Just not used to it yet," she admitted, a shy smile playing on her lips. Ash pecked her on the cheek, his affection evident. May smiled softly, feeling her heart flutter. Ash sat back on the bed, and May joined him, sitting beside him. He pulled her into his lap, holding her close. May blushed, her heart racing. Ash smiled, his eyes filled with love and contentment.

"There you are," he said softly, his voice a warm caress. May gave a small smile, her heart full of gratitude and love. They sat together, wrapped in each other's arms, content in the quiet intimacy of their love. Ash leaned in and kissed May, his lips tender and filled with love. May kissed him back, their connection deepening with each passing moment. Ash's hand found its way to her hair, stroking it gently. She moaned softly, the sensation sending shivers down her spine. Ash responded with a moan of his own, his body attuned to hers. May leaned her body into his, seeking his warmth and comfort. Ash held her close, his arms a protective cocoon around her. She moaned again, the sound a soft melody in the quiet room. Their kiss intensified, only breaking when they both needed air. May panted softly, her breath mingling with Ash's. They smiled at each other, their eyes reflecting their shared love and passion.

"I love you..." May whispered, her voice filled with sincerity.

"I love you too," Ash replied, his smile soft and affectionate. May's cheeks flushed with a gentle blush, and she smiled back at him. Ash kissed her again, and she eagerly reciprocated, their lips moving in perfect harmony. He stroked her chin, eliciting another soft moan from her.

"Mm…"

"Mm..." Ash murmured back, his own desire evident. May leaned more into his arms, feeling safe and cherished. Ash kissed her neck, his lips trailing soft, lingering kisses. She moaned into his hair, her hands clutching at his shirt. They lay down together, Ash nuzzling her affectionately. May giggled, the sound light and joyful. Ash smiled, his heart swelling with love. "Mine..." he whispered playfully, nipping at her ear.

"Oohh…" May smiled and blushed, her heart overflowing with affection. Ash kissed her again, and she kissed him back with equal fervor. Their moans mingled, creating a symphony of love and desire. Ash poked her lips, seeking entry, and May allowed him inside. They played with each other's tongues, their passion growing with each moment. May giggled a little, the playful sound blending with their moans. Ash pulled away for air but kept holding her close. May panted softly, her breaths quick and shallow. Ash looked into her eyes, his gaze filled with admiration and love.

"You have beautiful eyes..." he whispered, his voice sincere.

"Thank you..." May replied, her voice soft and grateful. Ash smiled, his eyes twinkling with affection. May smiled back, her heart full. Ash shut his eyes, a contented sigh escaping his lips. May lay her head back down, feeling the steady rise and fall of his chest. Slowly, Ash fell asleep, his breaths evening out. May followed him into slumber, her body nestled against his. They slept in each other's arms, their dreams filled with love and happiness

May slowly opened her eyes to the faint sound of a cannon in the distance, a noise that seemed to meld with the foggy remnants of her dreams. Before she could fully comprehend what was happening, an alarm blared, signaling an attack. Ash stirred beside her, his sleep disrupted by the sudden noise.

"Huh...?" May sat up, trying to shake off the grogginess. The alarm continued to blare, and she looked around in confusion.

"Huh?" Ash mumbled, still half-asleep.

"What's that...?" May asked, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and confusion.

"Not good..." Ash muttered, the urgency in his voice waking him fully. He climbed out of bed, his movements quick and determined. May watched him, worry etched on her face.

"What's happening?" Ash didn't answer immediately. Instead, he went to the window, leaving May to follow in his wake. She peered out the window and gasped at the sight of a pirate ship, people across the kingdom fleeing as the pirates invaded and started wreaking havoc. However, it was when she noticed the ship's flag that a horror and fear filled her eyes. The flag bore a very familiar insignia, one that sent chills down her spine.

"Pirates...!" Ash growled. However, when he glanced over at his bride, he was stunned to see her reaction to the invasion. Her face was paler than he had ever seen before, and there was a terrible trembling that was racking her entire body. He took a gentle hold of her, trying to tear her attention away from the sight outside. "May...?" She turned to him, her mouth dry with fear, unable to speak. She whimpered, her body trembling uncontrollably. "May...what's wrong?"

"It's him…" she finally managed to say, in a trembling voice.

"Who..?" Ash asked, his hold on her tightening protectively.

"...M-My last..." she stammered, unable to complete her sentence. Ash held her close, understanding dawning in his eyes.

"Take a deep breath... You said it's been 200 years since you last had a Master. It can't really be him specifically..."

"It's why they're here... It has to be..." May insisted, her voice barely more than a whisper.

"Let's get to shelter," Ash said firmly.

"O-Ok..." May agreed, her voice shaking. Ash turned, leading the way. May moved with him, her body still trembling in his arms. He stopped and looked at her, his concern deepening.

"I've got you..." Ash assured her.

"He'll kill you..." May whispered, her fear intensifying.

"Not happening," Ash said with determination.

"You don't know him..." May argued.

"We have each other," Ash reminded her.

"Which is why he'll kill you..." May's voice was filled with despair. Ash looked her in the eyes, trying to reassure her. May avoided his gaze, focusing on her feet as if it would help her avoid the impending reality. He tried to talk to her, to get her to start moving again, but none of his words seemed to register as her thoughts spiraled in absolute panic and terror. Suddenly, glass shattered from a nearby window, causing May to snap her head up. Several pirates climbed through the window, and she backed away in fear.

"There they are! After them!" one pirate shouted. May's eyes widened in panic. Ash grabbed her hand, and they ran. She stumbled after him, the sounds of guards fighting and castle staff fleeing surrounding them. They ran as fast as they could, but their path was blocked when a figure stepped into the hall in front of them.

"Allow me to take your troubles off your hands," Captain Phantom said, his voice smooth and menacing. May's eyes widened in horror. Phantom's facial features were different, but his eyes were identical to those of her previous Master.

"Back off..!" Ash warned. May backed away instinctively, only to bump into another pirate who grabbed her. She screamed in terror. "LET HER GO!" Ash shouted, only to be hit in the gut with an oar. He fell to the ground, looking up to see Gary standing over him. "G-Gary..?" Ash gasped.

"You really thought you could just cheat your way back to the throne?" Gary sneered.

"This coming from the twice-treacherous 'Noble'..." Ash retorted weakly.

"Let's see how far you get without your little magical puppet," Gary said, grabbing Ash's hand, which bore May's cursed ring. Phantom stepped forward and broke Ash's other arm, preventing him from putting up a further struggle. Ash screamed in pain as Gary pulled the ring off him, causing May to disappear. Ash collapsed, and Gary smirked triumphantly. He handed the ring to Phantom, who put it on his finger, forcing May to materialize at his side.

"Greetings, Ring Slave," the Phantom said with a smirk. "Your former Master was my great-grandfather. I'm reclaiming what belongs to me by right." May started panting in absolute panic, unable to form words. Phantom stroked her cheek, his touch making her flinch. "Derek was so loathed to lose you," he continued. "He spent years searching for you. Eventually, he passed down stories of you, which made their way to me. There was no lie in the tales of your unmatched beauty..." May pulled away in fear, but the Phantom grabbed her arm, reciting her old mantra in a dangerously calm tone. "A slave never recoils from her Master." She flinched at the saying. "Say it," the Phantom commanded. May frantically looked to Ash, who lay on the ground with a broken arm, in pain and unable to help her.

"A-A... slave... never recoils from her Master..." she whispered as tears filled her eyes.

"M-May..." Ash croaked. May dissolved into tears as Phantom turned to Gary.

"I believe you are owed your reward."

"No kidding," Gary replied. Phantom reached for an item in his pocket and suddenly drew a knife and stabbed Gary in the gut, narrowly missing a vital organ. "GAH!"

"No…!" Ash weakly gasped as Gary collapsed beside him.

"Transport all of my crew back to my ship at once," Phantom ordered May, who cried as she obeyed. Ash passed out beside Gary as everyone else vanished with a snap of May's fingers.

May covered her face with her hands and cried, her body trembling with uncontrollable sobs. Phantom stroked her hair, his touch a cruel mockery of comfort.

"There are two types of men in this world," he said, his voice smooth and cold. "Those who deserve the perfect slave, and those who do not." May continued to cry, her tears streaming down her cheeks. "Galen, make sure all the men are accounted for and begin preparations for the next phase."

"Aye, sir." Galen nodded, leaving to tend to his task. Phantom took May by the arm and walked her to his quarters, ignoring her distress. Once inside, he turned to her.

"Now then. I trust you know what to address me by." May's sobs didn't cease, but she managed to nod.

"Yes..."

"Yes, what?" he pressed, his tone demanding.

"Yes... Master," she choked out between sobs.

"Better," he said, a twisted smile curling his lips. May sniffled, desperately trying to close herself off from her feelings and emotions, to retreat into a place where the pain couldn't reach her. Phantom leaned in and kissed her, his lips pressing hard against hers. She remained unresponsive, a silent protest against the violation. He invaded her mouth, exploring it with a cruel intensity. May kept herself closed off, clamming up completely to distance herself from what she knew was coming. However, Phantom sensed her withdrawal and pulled away, anger flashing in his eyes. "Absolutely not." He slapped her hard across the face.

"Ah!"

"The boy was far too soft on you. Don't close yourself off. You will resume feeling the misery and terror you harbor deep down at my side. That's an order. Any attempt to go numb will be treated with severe punishment."

"...Yes, Master…" May looked down at the ground, her vision blurred by tears. She couldn't see a difference between feeling everything and feeling nothing; both options seemed like different shades of the same nightmare. She could even feel the curse restrictions that Ash had lifted tightening around her once more. Then, Phantom led her to his bed.

"Lie down," he commanded. May did as she was told, her body moving on autopilot. She lay down, her mind drifting to the recent memories of Ash and the hope he had brought into her life, a hope that now seemed like a cruel illusion. Phantom's presence loomed over her, a dark shadow that threatened to consume her completely as his body found its way on top of her's.

To be Continued...