Chapter 24: A New Day Dawns

As dawn cracked the horizon, a soft golden light began to filter through the elegant windows of the reception hall. The twinkling lights that once danced overhead now felt like distant stars fading into the morning glow, and the peacefulness of a new day stirred within the air. One by one, the guests stirred from their deep slumber, blinking in confusion, rubbing their eyes, and letting out drowsy yawns. Ash was the first to sit up, his mind still hazy from the effects of Jigglypuff’s song. “What... what happened?” he asked, glancing around at the sleeping forms of his friends. The realization struck him like lightning, and he leapt to his feet. “Oh no, Jigglypuff!” Nearby, Mario awoke with a bewildered expression, scratching his head. “Mamma mia! Did I fall asleep while eating the cake?” Next to him, Luigi chuckled softly. “Looks like someone else took over the party!” He motioned toward Jigglypuff, who was still perched on the stage, a proud yet guilty expression on her face. Ami’s voice floated from a table, “It seems we lost the battle against her lullaby.” Minako rubbed her eyes and exclaimed, “Well, I hope everyone enjoyed their dreams. What an unintentional nap!” “This is all my fault,” Ash sighed, stepping forward. “I should have known better. I didn’t warn anyone about Jigglypuff’s song.” He looked sincerely apologetic, his heart tugging as he turned to Jigglypuff. “I’m really sorry, everyone.” “Jiggly!” the little Pokémon squeaked, her eyes widening with guilt as she floated down to face the crowd. “It’s not your fault, Ash,” Rei leaned in, a smile gracing her lips despite the lingering drowsiness. “It was just an accident. We can laugh about it now.” Usagi stirred, still drowsy but slowly gaining her bearings, smiled at her friends with a warmth that shone brighter than the morning sun. “How about we make this a happy memory instead?” “Let’s gather in a circle and sing together!” suggested Serena, her voice lifting the mood. “After all, laughter’s the best way to start a new day!” Everyone agreed, and sleepily, they formed a loose circle in the middle of the hall. The atmosphere shifted, as silliness melded with camaraderie, and soon, they began to sing a cheerful tune, voices overlapping in a melodic medley. Mario and Luigi led the way with their joyful operatic flair, while Ash contributed an impromptu beat that sent everyone into cheerful giggles. As they sang, Jigglypuff floated around, filling in the gaps with her sweet, high-pitched harmonies, her earlier annoyance melting into delight. The connection between friends felt strong and vibrant as the hall echoed with their laughter and voices. Once the final note hung in the air, Minako clapped her hands. “What an uplifting way to see the dawn!” “We should do this again sometime!” Makoto added, excitement twinkling in her eyes. One by one, the guests began to depart, exchanging hugs and goodbyes, their hearts full and happy despite the jolt to their original celebratory night. Mario and Luigi waved farewell, teasingly promising to bake more cake for the next gathering, while Usagi and Rei lingered a moment longer. As the other guests walked out into the warm embrace of the morning sun, Usagi gently took Rei's hand, the sunlight cascading over them like golden silk. “Can you believe we’re wives now?” she whispered, her eyes sparkling with joy. Rei squeezed her hand in return, both of them stepping outside where the new day unveiled itself before them like an untouched canvas. “Let’s take a moment to enjoy this, just the two of us.” The sun rose higher, painting the sky with hues of pinks and oranges, as they stood side by side, savoring the first blush of their married life together.