Pokemon: Skybound

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After printing and distributing the script to everyone, the rehearsal session became intense.

At this moment, whether human or Pokémon, anyone participating in tomorrow's performance gathered by the pool to rehearse lines, memorize positions, and refine their movements.

"Misty, your swimming style must be more graceful. Imagine yourself as a true mermaid. Remember, don't let your movements become too stiff!"

"Kai, you need to show more emotion. Try to sound like a prince!"

Daisy's voice echoed throughout the gymnasium via the loudspeaker. Though her critiques seemed strict, they were necessary to ensure the quality and excitement of the performance.

Although the show still included elements of ballet, it had evolved into more of a stage play.

The story revolves around a serene underwater kingdom where the mermaid princess lives a carefree life.

One day, the peace was shattered when a prince accidentally fell into the sea.

Their budding interracial love faced challenges from a jealous sea witch, while a ruthless pirate raided the prince's homeland.

With the help of maids, sailors, and clever Pokémon, the princess and prince teamed up to fight against the sea beast Gyarados, unleashed by the witch.

They defeated both the pirates and the witch, saving their homes and bringing peace to the ocean and the land.

The performance ended with the prince and the mermaid princess embracing as the curtains fell, symbolizing a perfect ending.

After having dinner in the gymnasium, everyone continued rehearsing until midnight. Over eight gruelling hours, they practised repeatedly, finally performing flawlessly without a single mistake.

"I'm exhausted…"

Kai wiped the sweat from his forehead. Even supporting characters like Ash and Brock looked mentally drained, overwhelmed by memorizing lines and positions.

"Alright, alright," Daisy clapped her hands as the temporary director and announced, "Great work, everyone! Make sure to rest well tonight so you'll have the energy for tomorrow's performance."

Turning to Kai, Ash, and Brock, she added, "Thank you for your hard work. I've arranged rooms for you. Please follow me."

The trio followed Daisy into the gym's interior and stopped in front of a few doors.

"This is where you'll be staying tonight," Daisy said with a smile. "Have a good night's rest!"

Waving goodbye to Daisy, Kai let out a sigh of relief. Finally, he didn't have to endure Ash's teeth grinding or Brock's snoring in a shared dormitory. A night of peace awaited him.

After Daisy left, Kai entered his room. Exhausted, he quickly washed up and prepared to sleep. Just as his eyelids grew heavy, a soft knock came at the door.

Fighting off sleep, he opened the door to find Misty standing there.

"What's wrong?" Kai asked, glancing at the time. "Is something the matter?"

Misty hesitated. "I couldn't sleep. Could I come in and sit for a while?"

"Of course," Kai said, stepping aside to let her in.

Sitting on the bed, the two chatted for a while. Kai soon realized Misty was restless because she had returned to her long-lost home and was too excited about tomorrow's performance to sleep.

After some comforting words, Misty's nerves eased. Seeing Kai yawning, she smiled and left the room.

"Thanks, Kai. I feel much better now."

As she walked back to her room, Misty couldn't help but reflect. At first, she had been reluctant to participate in the performance.

But with Kai involved and sharing emotional scenes with her, she found herself looking forward to it.

Before closing the door, she turned back with a hopeful expression. "I really hope everything goes smoothly tomorrow. Let's give it our best!"

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The next morning, everyone felt refreshed after a good night's sleep.

Although the performance was set to begin at 11:20, audiences started gathering as early as 10:00.

"Wow, I haven't seen such a big crowd in a long time!" Daisy beamed, seeing the long line of parents and children. "It seems our decision to make changes was absolutely right!"

For most of the cast, this was their first time performing on such a grand stage. Nervousness crept in as the audience grew larger. Backstage, Daisy tried to ease their worries.

"Relax, everyone. Just pretend the audience isn't there. Put your heart into the performance, and everything will be fine!"

Once everyone had changed into their costumes, they presented their final looks.

Kai's princely outfit suited his age and personality perfectly. He looked energetic and handsome, convincing everyone he was born for the role.

Misty, with her mermaid costume and flowing hair, looked elegant and mature much more captivating than her usual tomboyish appearance.

The supporting cast, including Brock and Misty's sisters Violet and Lily all looked stunning as well. Finally, it was Ash's turn.

Ash emerged wearing a long wig and heavy makeup to play a female role. Although the result was a bit awkward, he did look the part.

Pikachu couldn't help laughing, rolling on the ground. "Pika-pika~!"

"Hey, stop laughing!" Ash grumbled, embarrassed. Yet, after travelling for so long, dressing as a girl didn't bother him as much anymore.

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Unbeknownst to the performers, three pairs of malicious eyes were watching from above through a tiny gap in the ceiling.

"Did you hear that?" Jessie whispered.

"Of course!" James replied. "A ballet performance… I'd love to see it too!"

"You fool!" Meowth snapped, lowering his voice. "This isn't about enjoying the show! With so many Water-type Pokémon gathered, it's the perfect chance to snatch them all!"

"How are we going to steal them?" James asked nervously. "There are so many people and spectators. If we make a move, we'll be caught immediately!"

"You numbskull!" Meowth sneered. "Since it's a performance, we can join in openly. Once we're on stage, we'll grab the Pokémon right in front of them! They won't dare stop us and ruin the show!"

"Brilliant!" James nodded in agreement. "What a clever plan!"

Jessie's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Does this mean we get to perform too? I've always dreamed of being on stage, and now that dream can finally come true!"

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