108. Water Ballet

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Misty said, "When I was at Cinnabar Island, I got a call from my sisters. They asked me to return to the Cerulean Gym. Also, my Horsea has been looking listless for some reason. I thought I'd bring it back here to live in a bigger pool for a while and see if that helps refresh it."

As she spoke, Misty's gaze shifted to Kai, scanning him subtly.

Kai, wearing a new outfit, looked even more striking than usual, making Misty's heart race.

Against the backdrop of Ash and Brock, who were less polished in their appearance, Kai's presence stood out even more.

Misty thought to herself, "It's like comparing a Pidgey to a Pidgeot. They're both bird Pokémon, but the difference in elegance is unmistakable."

The group continued chatting casually, and under Misty's invitation, Kai decided to join them in visiting Cerulean City since he wasn't in a hurry.

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Talking and laughing, the group soon arrived at the Cerulean Gym.

Seeing the familiar gym where she grew up, Misty was filled with nostalgia.

"I missed this place so much," Misty said warmly. "It's been ages since I've been back!"

As they were about to enter, Kai noticed a billboard nearby.

On the billboard was a huge poster featuring various Water-type Pokémon. At the centre was an image of a beautiful mermaid in a seashell swimsuit.

Though the poster only showed half of the girl's face, her silhouette and poise were mesmerizing.

Kai asked curiously, "'Luxurious and Gorgeous Water Ballet Performance'? Is this a new event?"

The others approached the poster as well. Brock, seeing the mermaid, was instantly captivated.

"Wow, she's stunning! We came at just the right time," he muttered dreamily.

Kai, noticing the smaller text below, read aloud, "This performance is presented by the renowned water ballet artist returning triumphantly to Cerulean City... Wait, Misty, could this be referring to you?"

At that, everyone turned to look at the poster again. The mermaid's features were undeniably similar to Misty's, especially her hair when untied.

"No way!" Misty exclaimed, waving her hands. "I don't know anything about water ballet. This must be some guest performer my sisters invited."

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Passing through the automatic doors, they entered the gym's main hall.

It was quiet and deserted, likely a rest day.

"I'm home!" Misty called out happily.

Her voice carried through the space, and in moments, her three sisters, Daisy, Lily, and Violet, appeared.

"You're finally back!" Violet said, grabbing Misty's hands. "Why did you take so long? You almost missed everything!"

Before Misty could respond, Lily added, "Were you off sightseeing again? Honestly, you cut it so close!"

"Alright, calm down," Daisy interjected. "She's back now, and that's what matters. Let's focus on the important stuff."

Their rapid-fire chatter left Misty bewildered. When they finally paused, she asked, "What are you all talking about? What did I almost miss? Oh, by the way, I brought some guests with me."

It was then the sisters noticed Kai, Ash, and Brock.

"Oh, it's you guys!" Daisy greeted warmly. "How have you been? Misty didn't cause too much trouble for you, did she?"

After briefly greeting Ash and Brock, the sisters turned their attention to Kai.

When they saw him clearly, their eyes lit up.

"Ah, I remember you!" Violet said dramatically. "You're the one who really gave us a hard time back then!"

"That's right!" Lily chimed in. "Are you travelling with Misty now?"

"Could it be that you're sweet on our little sister?" Daisy teased.

Kai, flustered by their enthusiasm, shook his head. "No, no, we just ran into each other by chance today. But Misty and I are good friends."

Hearing this, Misty couldn't help but feel a spark of joy. However, seeing her sisters crowding around Kai made her a little annoyed. She quickly stepped forward and pushed them aside.

"Okay, that's enough!" Misty said sharply. "You called me back in such a rush. What's going on?"

Her sisters suddenly remembered the reason for her return.

"Oh, right!" Daisy exclaimed. "We nearly forgot! Misty, there's no time to waste. You have to start practising!"

"Practicing?" Misty asked, puzzled. "What for?"

Lily pointed to the poster. "For the water ballet, of course!"

"What?!" Misty shouted in shock. "You're kidding! You expect me to perform?!"

"Of course," Violet said matter-of-factly. "We decided that the lead role of the mermaid princess would be perfect for you!"

"What?! You didn't even ask me! I'm supposed to be training to become a Water-type Pokémon Master, not doing ballet! No way I'm not doing it!"

Misty's firm refusal made Lily want to argue, but Daisy quickly intervened.

"Alright, Misty, calm down. Let's not argue in front of our guests. Why don't you show them to the lounge to rest first?"

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Following Daisy, the group entered the gym's lounge and sat around a long table. Daisy served tea as they explained the situation.

It turned out that the Cerulean Gym had recently become a popular attraction, not only for its battles but also for its extravagant water ballet performances.

Misty's sisters thought having her as the lead in the next performance would be the perfect draw for audiences.

"But I don't even know how to perform water ballet!" Misty protested.

"That's what practice is for," Lily said with a shrug. "Don't worry, you'll pick it up quickly."

The conversation continued, with Misty trying to find a way out while her sisters insisted she was perfect for the role.

Meanwhile, Ash, Brock, and Kai couldn't help but be amused by the lively exchange.

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