The Best Around

"You must!" the first voice said "you need to get the information we have to the authorities! Hopefully help comes in time to aid me but you must leave! You're the only one with a psychic type that can teleport you!"

"But…"

"Enough! Now get going! You're wasting time. I still have a few Pokémon left that can help me. Now go!" the first voice said as they rushed off further down the hallway entering a cavernous room. At the other side of the room was a single man standing with a Pokémon at his side

"So, it's you, is it?" the man asked "I suspected you would be the cause of all this destruction. I should have ended your miserable life the first chance I had. Never mind, I can do it now. Nidoking, come forth" at his command a massive purple Pokémon appeared from its poke ball and stood in front of the man "Nido!" it shouted causing the air to tremble.

"I always knew it was you. Every time I saw you, I always knew you were hiding something. It seems my instincts were right. You're not leaving here alive Rocket. Let's go Lapras!" the first voice shouted as a blue dinosaur shaped Pokémon appeared in front of him "this is life or death Lapras so show no mercy".

Appearing in front of the nearest police station with his Alakazam the trainer shoved his way through the door and demanded to see the chief. Hearing the commotion Chief Jenny came out of her office to see what was going on.

"Just what do you think you're doing young man?" Jenny asked, "this is not a playcentre".

"Never mind that" he responded shocking her "Pokémon Master Red has just attacked the Viridian Gym! He's taking down Team Rocket as we speak, and we need every bit of help we can get. I've already spoken to the head of the G-Men, and they are on their way, but they may not get here in time. Please, you must help!"

"And how do we know this is not a hoax?" Jenny asked disbelieving him.

"My name is Blue Oak, son of Samuel Oak the Pokémon Professor. My best friend is Red Ketchum and he's in danger! And you ask me how it's not a hoax? How about getting off your arse and doing something! I'm heading back to Viridian Gym where he is fighting for his life while you stand there" with that he turned and sprinted out of the police station leaving a bewildered Jenny and her officers.

"What if it's not a hoax Boss?" one Jenny asked.

"We need to treat it as serious given his demeanour so round everyone up. I want them at the gym in the next ten minutes" the Chief said leaving the station. Calling out her Arcanine she instructed it to take her to the gym. Getting there she saw utter devastation. There wasn't a gym anymore, just the ruins of it and there wasn't a single standing wall, it had all collapsed in on itself. Getting off her Arcanine she walked towards it and saw a single figure kneeling not far away from where the entrance used to be. It was Blue. She started to walk up to him and was about to ask him a question when a Dragonite landed not far from them along with several other trainers getting off their flying type Pokémon. Only one person she knew of had a Dragonite. Lance, the dragon master had arrived with the G-men.

"Hello Chief Jenny, my name is Lance" he said as he walked forward holding out his hand to shake while they made their way to Blue "it seems we arrived too late then. Where is Red?"

"Gone" came the small reply of a clearly devastated Blue as he turned round holding a red cap. Jenny gasped. That cap was iconic, like Lances cape. Only one person she knew of had the signature Pokémon league official cap.

Putting on his official tone Lance turned to the rest of the trainers and said "right, let's get a clean-up crew here asap, I want a few officers patrolling the surrounding area, take as many statements as you can too as I want to know what happened here as of yesterday. Liaise with Chief Jenny and her officers to assist you. Blue, you need to come with me to the league HQ and tell Goodshow everything you know about what went on here and why you felt it necessary to disobey my orders and attack without back-up. I'll let you ring your dad first and I'll be back in ten minutes when Jenny and I have set up orders. Jenny, please come with me and I'll let you know what I can".

The funeral for Red Ketchum happened three weeks later at the Pokémon League headquarters even though no body had been recovered from the ruins of Viridian gym. People from all over Kanto came to pay their respects to the last Pokémon master. All 8 gym leaders and the elite four were standing at the front just behind Delia and her newborn son Ash, Blue with his wife Laura, his daughter Daisy and his new born son Gary along with Sam Oak. Charles Goodshow said a few words in a strangely jovial tone before he unveiled a statue of Red that was to be placed in the Hall of Champions. After that various people came up and gave anecdotes about conversations they had had with him.

Giovanni had been questioned by Lance as to why he wasn't at the gym that day, but he had a rock-solid alibi that placed him in Johto an hour before the incident and no known psychic Pokémon could teleport that distance, nor could any Pokémon fly that fast. Giovanni was apparently clueless as to why his gym was used as base for illegal activities and as no one could prove otherwise he was cleared of any wrongdoing.

"I swear to you Delia" Giovanni said walking up to her after the funeral "that I will get to the bottom of what happened in my gym that day. Red will be avenged sister".

"Thank you, brother," Delia said looking down at Ash "but I don't believe he is dead. Until I see a body, he will always be alive. And he lives on in Ash. People may say I'm delusional, but I don't care. I'm taking Ash home now".

"Very well" Giovanni said, "do you want me to drive you home?"

"No thank you. I'm travelling with Sam" she replied, "thank you though, for everything".

"You're entirely welcome" he said giving her a hug "keep in touch sister. If you need anything don't hesitate to ask"

With that Delia turned away and walked towards where Sam Oak was talking to Blue and Agatha. Seeing her approach Agatha offered her condolences and walked off leaning heavily on her cane. "Are we ready to go Delia?" Sam asked.

"Yes" she replied turning back to where Red's statue was "let's go home"

Time skip- 6 years later

Ash Ketchum had always been a strange child. He didn't really have any friends as he seemed to prefer the company of Pokémon. If he ever went missing, he'd usually be found not long after in the Choral at Professor Oaks laboratory. Ash was very intelligent; he was always seen to be reading a book aimed at people many years older than him. He had devoured Oak's library of Pokémon books and when he had done with them had started writing his own books on his thoughts and observations and was always seen hanging around the lab, speaking to the various assistants about Pokémon and getting their views on the latest discoveries. The latest one that had come out last month in Pokémon Pal was about the secret abilities that Pokémon possessed.

As such he wasn't very sociable where people were concerned. Particularly with children his own age. He knew he was so much more intelligent than the rest of them, and he didn't care for playing games which led to a very solitary childhood. To her credit Delia had tried to set up playdates, but Ash would go sit in a corner and read and unless Pokémon were involved, he didn't want to know. Gary Oak had seemingly taken this personally and was often found to be teasing Ash. The fact he barely received a raised eyebrow at his words just further irritated the young man who was becoming more and more obnoxious by the day. The fact his father was now Champion of the Kanto league, his sister was a successful breeder, and his grandfather was the world-renowned Pokémon professor just further cemented his self-importance.

Pokémon. That's where Ash truly flourished. He seemed to have this connection with every Pokémon that passed through the lab and he was often seen talking to the various Pokémon that trainers left there, walking through the paddock very unconcerned about his safety around potentially dangerous beasts. His favourite Pokémon though was Professor Oaks Charizard. It was a huge specimen, easily above 6 and a half feet tall and had claws that could slash anyone open without even trying. It didn't like people in general and other trainers had learned to be wary and respectful of it when it was in the paddock. Usually, it slept in the nearby mountains where its family lived but on the odd occasion it would visit its former master. Ash though had the uncanny ability to know when it was going to visit and had no issues going sitting next to it and falling asleep. Despite being very surprised the first time this happened Charizard, utterly confused as to how this toddler showed no fear of walking up to it and petting it before falling asleep next to it had become very protective of Ash. So much so that only Delia and Sam could come near if Ash fell asleep next to him. Not even Blue or Gary could approach when Ash was there.

Charizard was flying from his home to Oaks Lab one day with Sam on his back when they noticed Ash sat on a hill looking over Pallet Town. Landing next to him he nudged him surprising him.

"Hi Charizard, hi Professor. I'm just watching this trainer train with his Pokémon. I've never seen or heard of that Pokémon before though, is it new?" Ash asked pointing to the trainer who was sparring with a tall blue Pokémon. They seemed to be doing hand-to-hand combat and the occasional blue ball was being thrown at the trainer who would deflect it with a stick and then throw one back.

"It's not new no Ash" Sam said, "although it might be new to someone who has never left Kanto before. That is a Lucario, the Aura Pokémon and the evolution of Riolu. It can use the very air around us to shape attacks into what are called Aura Spheres. Amazingly its trainer can seemingly do the same. It's an incredibly rare gift that very few people can utilise, much like psychic users can bend the world and reality to their will so can aura users. There are so few aura wielders left in the world now though Ash. There is a special place just north of Mt Moon that has ties to the Lucario Kingdom in Sinnoh. It houses the Queen of Cameron Palace who has a household full of Lucario, it is also where the people who can use aura go to train to become what are called Aura Guardians. I have a book at home that I can show you that describes it in detail if you like?"

"Yes please" Ah nodded enthusiastically "it would be so cool to be able to use Aura like that".

"Indeed, it is young man" came the voice of the trainer who had overheard their conversation and came to talk to them. Noticing the look he was getting off the Charizard he continued "it is a very unique skill to have, there are only seventeen aura guardians left in the world"

"So few?" Oak asked shocked "why?"

"We have only one partner for life, we don't always find them and I myself have yet to meet my destined partner. And Aura is hereditary" seeing Ash's confused face he chuckled "it is only passed on through our parents and their parents. You either have it or you don't. So, for you to have it either your mother or your father would have had to have it and then they would have had to pass it on to you. My name is Riley by the way, nice to meet you all, this is my best friend Lucario".

"Wow" Ash said, "how would I find out?"

"Oh, the test is quite simple really" Riley said "give me your hand Ash. What I'll do is infuse my hand with Aura and touch yours. If your hand glows blue like mine you have the ability, if you don't it will stay your natural colour".

Holding out his hand Riley made his hand glow blue before Ash tentatively held out his. The moment they connected the world turned black for Ash.

Hall Of Origins

The Hall of Origins was a place that had long descended into myth and legend. Many people believed it existed; others were unsure. But there were many documents on show in the Sinnoh Museum in Celestic Town that were written by scholars thousands of years ago that showed depictions of four huge Pokémon, said to be the very creators of their universe. Dialga the ruler of Time, Palkia the ruler of Space, Giratina the ruler of the Reverse world and the creator of all Arceus. The Hall of Origin was said to be located somewhere near Spear Pillar, but no evidence was ever found to prove that.

The Hall of Origin was very real though. Only the legendary Pokémon of the world could enter it, and even then, only at the behest of their ruler Arceus. Once every ten years there was always a gathering of the worlds legendaries to go over what had happened in that time. Their physical forms were left back on Earth, but their astral projections found their way to the hall where Arceus was waiting for them all.

"Greetings my children" Arceus said her voice being projected into all their minds "I'm aware its earlier than we usually meet but something vital has happened in the world of men that you all need to be aware of. Man has created an abomination. The balance of the world is about to be thrown into turmoil. They have captured a Mew and have forcefully taken her DNA to create their own version of her. Their tests up until now have all failed but in the next few years they will succeed".

"What can we do?" Groudon asked "do we act?"

"No, we cannot interfere like that. You know this" Ho-oH said "for millennia now we have wanted to interfere with plans that would use one of our own and have been banned from doing so. My Lady Arceus has decreed it".

"Then she can un-decree it" Kyogre said staring at Arceus defiantly "I am sick and tired of being used in some stupid plot to rule the world. Time and time again some faction has gotten their hands on mine and Groudons Orb and have taken over our minds. Do you think I like battling my own brother? Do you think we like disturbing Rayquaza from his incredibly important job to stop the asinine plots? It's about time that we legendaries can do our jobs fully and put an end to what has happened for centuries".

"Hear hear" Groudon said "I second that!"

All around the hall every other legend broke into shouts as they gave their own thoughts on the matter. Some were furious it had been allowed to happen, others stating that Arceus' word was law. That was until a small voice shouted "Enough!" everyone was so shocked to hear the voice that they immediately quietened. It was Mew.

"It is my sister that is being used, it is also my brother that is being created" turning to Arceus she asked "why did you bring us here instead of acting yourself? You know we're forbidden to act ourselves because of your word, but there's nothing stopping you from doing so".

"I have already acted daughter" Arceus said shocking them all "I am very much aware of what my word has put you all through but that are not going to change. We cannot interfere with human life. To do so would be the end of all life on Earth. However, that doesn't mean that we cannot help a human bring balance to the world which is exactly what I have done" turning to Lugia and the Kanto Birds she carried on "the Chosen One was born six years ago. His name is Ash. He will bring balance to the world. Warn your children that it will happen very soon".

"A human?" Darkrai roared "you would trust a human to save us when it is humans that are making our lives a misery?"

"Mind who you're talking to Darkrai" Giratina said "I might not be particularly fond of Arceus right now, given what she has done to me, but she is still our mother! Carry on mother" he said quelling any retort with a look.

"Ash is the one. He's been created to do this job; he will need all your aid at some point because he cannot do this alone. Therefore, I am tasking you all with keeping an eye out for him. You cannot aid him directly, but you must also not hinder him."

"Can we see who he is?" Celebi asked "so we know who to look out for? I have already met him many years ago, but the others haven't".

At that very moment a body of a small boy landed in the hall instantly quietening everyone. No human had ever set foot in this hall! Who was this person?

"Well, I'll be" Arceus said "sons and daughters I present to you Ash Ketchum. Now before he awakes you all need to leave. I shall speak with him about his task, I will not tell him directly what to do though. We will be having these meetings more frequently from now on as well so be prepared. Darkrai, Latios warn your sons that a trainer will seek them out very soon. It will be their decision if they go along with the trainer but remind them of their obligations. It is the same with all of you. Now, go."

With that all the legendaries apart from Mew went back to their own bodies. Many decided the safest thing to do was to hibernate in the deepest parts of the planet, some the highest peaks. Man would not get hold of them if they could help it. Arceus contemplated just what to say to Ash when he woke up. How do you explain to a person that their entire life was created to do a job? And that it was either him or no-one? It was very unfair. Seeing him stir Mew got close to him and poked his cheek. Opening his eyes, he found himself staring into a big pair of eyes. Shouting panicked he backpedalled on the floor shocked at what was happening. Taking in his surroundings he finally looked back to the pair of eyes and his own widened comically "ARE YOU MEW?"

"Hello Ash" came a reply in his head "yes, that is my daughter Mew" turning round Ash saw a massive horse like Pokémon. It was pure white with a golden ring around its neck and various plates attached to them. Ash could see some were missing though. "Erm, who are you? And where am I?"

"You are in what's known as the Hall of Origins Ash. I am Arceus, the creator of the universe and all its inhabitants and this is my home. You are the first human being to have ever set foot in this place. Technically you're not here. Your body is back on Earth, but we have need of you here Ash. Now, this will be a lot to take in all at once, but help will always be available to you should you need it. I created you because we legends have need of you. You see the world is about to be thrown into turmoil. A group of people have captured a Mew and is using her for experiments. They're trying to create their own legends to rule Earth. I created you to stop them and others from doing irreparable damage to the planet.

As I said this will be a lot to take in and you have many years yet before you will be needed but in the meantime I need you to train both your mind and your body to be able to cope with the demands that will be placed on you before you begin your Pokémon journey. You are already very intelligent, and it seems your Aura powers have just become unlocked too so that is good. I have been remiss in taking care of my children so I will give you several gifts when I send you back. I cannot tell you all of what they are, you must discover them for yourself, but they will help you in your quest. What say you, Ash?"

Shock, blank mind. It took several minutes for Ash's 6-year-old mind to process what was happening. "Just to recap. I was created by you to do a job. That job is to save the world. And you're going to give me several 'gifts' to help me but you're not going to tell me what? And I have less than five years to train? Anything else?"

"That is quite enough to be going on with" Arceus replied chuckling "there is one other thing though. I am going to lock all this in your head, you cannot tell anyone what your task will be except one person to help you share your burden, who you choose is up to you. I wish it were different Ash, but events must unfold as naturally as they can. By all means tell people that you want to be the very best trainer in the world if they ask what is going on. Your first task will happen in just over five years' time".

"Can I refuse this?" Ash asked in a small voice "I'm just one person".

"I truly am sorry about this Ash but if you don't do it then no one else will and the world as you know it will be over within the next ten years. Pokémon and humans will be pitted against each other, and thousands will die. The Pokémon being created from Mew will have immense power and will need you to be able to quell his rage before he destroys the world. We legends have been forbidden from direct interference, including myself. As you have noticed I am not whole, I have several plates missing, so I am not at my full power and won't be for some time. I will have Mew check up on you from time to time".

"Please Mr Ash" Mew asked in a small voice "please help save my sister and brother".

"Ok" Ash said quietly "I will do my best and that's the best I can do".

"Thank you, Ash" Arceus said "We're all in your debt. Now, when you go back you will be in a coma for the next week while your body settles and accepts the gifts. The main one will be the use of Aura. You must master this before you leave on your journey Ash. It will help you communicate with Pokémon directly and to observe the world around you in greater detail. Now, I will send you back Ash".

"One thing though before I go" Ash said "you said you created me for this purpose. What makes you any different than the creators of this new Pokémon using Mew?"

"Ah, to you in general there isn't a difference" Arceus said "but to the wider world around us there is a big one. I will answer it fully once your task is done Ash. Goodbye"

"Bye Ash" Mew said as his body disappeared. Turning to Arceus she asked, "what is the difference?"

"I have no single answer that will satisfy any question like that daughter. The main one though is that I created him to save the world" Arceus responded "It has taken millennia to get to where we are now, and I will not see that be smashed to pieces if I can help it. Ash will not be alone in his quest Mew but ultimately this is his burden to bear".

Aura

Delia was terrified. She knew instantly what had happened when she received the phone call from Samuel Oak that Ash had been taken to Viridian hospital, especially when Oak mentioned aura. Going to her bedside cabinet she pulled out a book that her husband had given her many years ago and opening it up to a particular chapter she saw a depiction of a family tree. It was Reds. Tracing it upwards she finally landed on the name Sir Aaron. Red and Ash had legends in their family it seemed which explained how the Ketchum's were always destined for greatness. Red had told her about being an Aura guardian, and everything that came along with it including all the sacrifices that would need to be made. She was hoping her husband would be there when Ash's powers awakened but as Red had disappeared many years ago it fell on her to talk him through the process.

All the way to the hospital she was going over what she would say to Ash. How do you explain to a 6-year-old child that they have a duty in the world that goes above anything anyone else will ever have? She was very grateful that Ash was intelligent and that he would be able to understand somewhat. Entering the hospital, she followed the nurse's directions and entered her son's ward. Opening the door, she saw someone she had not seen in a long time talking to Sam at the side of Ash who was linked up to a monitor. Hearing her the two turned towards her.

"Hello Delia" Sam said standing up "Ash is ok. The doctors have said that he just needs to get used to whatever happened and that he'll be right as rain in no time. An Aura user, eh? I would never have guessed it".

"Yes Sam" Delia said looking directly at Riley "can you give us a moment Sam please?"

Looking uncertain between the two he nodded and left the room.

"What are you doing here Riley?" Delia asked, "and don't try and lie, I will know".

"Delia" Riley began "I genuinely was passing through Pallet town on my way to the shipyard to travel to Cinnabar Island. I didn't know Ash had aura powers".

"Cut the crap Riley" Delia interrupted him "My husband was an Aura wielder and was well on his way to becoming a guardian when he disappeared. And I know full well your Queen has been keeping tabs on my son to see if he had powers too. Well, you can go and tell her that she's not having him. Ash will learn about Aura from me and what that means. We don't need you or your Queen interfering in our lives".

"I'm sorry you feel that way Delia" Riley said "my Queen has not given me any indication that she has been keeping an eye out for Ash. But you have no idea how to raise a child of Aura. He needs a trainer. I have already sent Queen Ilene a message about another wielder being found".

"Then send a Lucario here to train him" Delia said furiously "your Queen will get my son over my dead body".

"We are not your enemy here Delia" Riley said "Ash has more Aura than anyone I've ever seen or heard of and without the correct training it could become dangerous. This is not about you Delia. It's about what's best for Ash".

"I'm his mother" she shouted back "I know full well what is best for Ash. I have Reds journals about being an Aura user so I can use them. Now I suggest you leave and have a talk with your Queen. But remember what I said Riley. She will not have him the way she tried to claim my Red. Ilene and her ancestors have always had this nasty habit of trying to claim something that was never theirs to have".

"Your attitude is regrettable Delia" Riley said as he made to leave "I had hoped we could have a reasonable discussion about Ash and how to help him. I will contact you in the coming weeks Delia, hopefully we can come up with a suitable resolution. Know this though, he needs to be trained by someone who knows how to use Aura. Journals can only tell you so much as most of it is instinct that a non-aura user would not know how to describe. I will take my leave".

"Take your leave" She replied "make sure you tell your Queen what I said though. I will happily take her to court should she try anything Riley".

"Which would achieve nothing" Riley replied "except hurt Ash's aura development" with that he left the room. Sam came in and looked questioningly at her. Shaking her head, she focused on Ash. Many people would claim her to be unstable but there was just something about Queen Ilene that set her off.

"They're going to monitor him for a week" Sam said, "hopefully he will be out sooner".

"Let's hope so. I need to make a call, I'll be back shortly" Delia said leaving to find a phone. Finding a booth near the lobby she dialled in a number she had not used in a few years. Hearing it ring she wondered just what she was going to say but looking up as a face appeared she smiled a genuine smile that had not been seen in over six years "Hello brother, I need your help".

It took Ash exactly a week for his Aura powers to settle down in his body and quite a few changes had occurred in that week. His hair had become messier and had a blue tinge to it, his bone structure changed slightly and became denser, but the most startling change was his eyes. Where they were once the same shade of brown as Delia's they were now a startlingly bright blue. Aura had evidently been the reason for these changes. He had had an enlightening conversation when he got home with his mum. Hearing more about his dad and how he was an aura user made him feel a lot better about his task and hearing about her conversation with Riley and how she knew him left him both confused and bitter. His meeting with Riley had evidently been staged and he didn't like that and the fact his mum had been accused of being a bad parent by Riley just cemented his opinion of the man. Aura Guardians were supposed to be honourable but honour, it seems was only followed when it suited someone's agenda.

Telling his mum about Arceus, Mew and the task they had given him had left her speechless. He assured her that she was the only one he was going to talk to about his role. Hugging him and reassuring him she would always be there for him they came up with a plan and a diet that would help him. Five years was not a long time really to prepare for a world changing event, but it was what they had. Over the next few months Ash became even more of a loner, seeing other children his age playing with each other still didn't interest him. His role in the world was greater than anyone else could ever perceive and his training was very important. Every morning the inhabitants of Pallet town would see Ash jogging around the town, doing pull-ups on various tree branches, and following a training regime that would make most people wince. But Ash followed it through.

Ash had also asked Professor Oak for his help in understanding Pokémon more. He was determined to become a Pokémon master and he had discovered over the last few years by reading various accounts that if you wanted to be a voice of change then you needed to be someone who could stand up and be respected. Oak was THE authority on Pokémon throughout all the regions and his word was valued. Ash saw that and wanted that. So, under the guise of becoming a Pokémon master he asked Oak for help. Sam was only too happy to oblige, partly out of guilt for what had happened but mainly because Ash was clearly interested in learning.

Ash had used his newfound power to develop a deeper connection with the various Pokémon that appeared on Oak's ranch. Being able to converse with them certainly helped him understand their needs a lot better and over the next few years Ash wrote many essays about what Pokémon really felt and needed. He left them with Sam to read and get his opinion on them. Ash never thought much of his scribblings, but Oak secretly kept them and planned to publish them and Ash never knew that his research was becoming so important worldwide in understanding Pokémon. He decided to let Ash know when he started his journey what he had done.

Giovanni was also around more often. Ash never really knew the man, there was something off about him but as he was a stranger, he put it down to that. Over the next few years, as he conversed more with him, he found out that he was extremely intelligent and an absolute fountain of knowledge about the league and the inner workings of being a gym leader. Ash shared Giovanni's disgust about the news that some of the Indigo gyms were becoming a laughingstock, handing out badges like they were candy.

After months of back-and-forth Riley had also been able to come up with a compromise with Delia. Ash wanted nothing to do with him but as he needed a tutor it had been agreed that a Lucario from the kingdom would come every few months and stay for a few weeks to tutor Ash. As he could understand Pokémon the language barrier was non-existent and Ash's abilities soared from the teachings of the Lucario. So much so that it wasn't a strange sight to see Ash and Lucario sparring in the streets. Ash was quickly becoming formidable and could even do the most basic of Aura spheres. It was only the size of a golf ball so far but usually grown adults struggled to do this. His Aura usage exhausted him, but he was told it was like a muscle, the more you used it the stronger it became, and the more output could be achieved. The Lucario had tried to teach Ash about the moral code of the Aura Guardians, but Ash barely listened. He was determined to not be shackled by the rules that the guardians normally went by and he certainly wasn't going to adhere to some old code that was vastly outdated. Ash already knew his destiny. He served a higher power than some Queen who sat on a throne doing nothing with her life.

The years passed by very quickly, his training had progressed very well to the point Ash could now manipulate Aura into various shapes. His favourite was Aura spikes as they were harder to deflect and could do more damage. Ash and his mum had discussed at length the moral uses of using Aura in such a way. Ash had retorted that to fulfil his destiny then the chances of him having to kill someone was very likely. Delia wasn't happy with this, but they had come up with a compromise that the person had to be guilty beyond doubt and that he had to ring her immediately to discuss why he had taken such an action. Ash agreed without hesitation, he didn't want to become a murderer, but he also knew it may be necessary to carry out Lady Arceus' will

On Ash's tenth birthday Giovanni showed up with a grim look on his face. Waiting for Ash to arrive from his morning routine he sat with Delia and prepared how to say what he was about to say.

"Ash" Giovanni started "you once asked me how your father died. At the time your mother and I came to the decision that you were far too young to understand or comprehend what we could tell you. Well, we have been talking about it again and have deemed you old enough now to know what happened".

"Your father was an honourable man" Delia said taking over "I still do not believe he is dead, but I have no proof he lives either. He was an amazing Pokémon trainer. He achieved the status of Pokémon master at the age of 21, the youngest in centuries at the time. I hear there is a trainer in Sinnoh who achieved Champion at 23 a few years ago but usually people are in their thirties when they attain that rank so that should tell you how gifted he was. Anyhow he was also a part of a group of people called the G-Men, they were basically gifted trainers selected by the champion or leader of the elite four who worked alongside the police but had more executive powers and less red-tape than they have. One day Blue Oak discovered the leader of a group of Pokémon thieves called Team Rocket was holed up in Viridian Gym and he went after him. He misjudged just how many trainers there were protecting him and your father was sent in to help rescue him."

"Now from the transcripts of witnesses and the video footage recovered at my gym" Giovanni said "we have managed to piece together the last few minutes of action before the feed shuts off. Likely due to the building falling apart. Blue Oak was your father's best friend, they were thick as thieves. Red beat Blue to become Pokémon champion less than a day after Blue achieved that position. They were rivals but they were also friends. Now, Blue stated that Red ordered him to leave the building to go and get help while he confronted the leader of Team Rocket, and when he returned with the police the building had collapsed and all that remained was Reds hat. No body was ever recovered, neither Reds nor the leader. We still have no idea who the leader was or is. We also have no idea what happened to Red or his Pokémon. He was declared dead by Charles Goodshow and Lance Wataru after a weeks' worth of investigating. Now I am not saying they were part of a conspiracy, but that was an awfully quick timeframe to declare the Pokémon master dead. Something is off about the whole situation. The funeral was held two weeks later.

Your mother has always told me she can feel that he is still alive somewhere. I have always gone along with it to humour her as it's been ten years but recently there have been rumours of Team Rocket returning and you needed to know as in a years' time you will be travelling with your own Pokémon. Should that be true then Red Ketchum's son will be one of the main targets. We wanted you to know the actual story and not piece things together over time and come up with false facts. I'm aware this is a lot to take in, but do you have any questions?"

"Can you leave me the transcripts?" Ash asked "I know it's been gone over many times but maybe I can find something. Also why was your gym being used?"

"Yes, I can. I'll let you have them when I leave" Giovanni answered "as for the second question, I have no idea. I suspect that Red and Blue chased him into there, the leader could have also been someone I knew but no one has gone missing from that time who I had close contact with. I was in Johto at the time having a meeting with the head of the radio tower and as there was no known psychic type that could teleport me nor a flying type that could travel that fast, I was rightfully cleared. It remains a mystery" standing up he clapped Ash on the shoulder and took his leave saying goodbye to everyone. Watching him leave Ash picked up the transcripts and read them over. Suddenly a lightbulb went off in his head. His mother seeing his face asked what he was thinking.

"Giovanni said Team Rocket are on their way back, and that no KNOWN psychic type was around at that time. Arceus and Mew told me that a group have tried to clone Mew using a Mew. What if they succeeded? Mew could also be powerful enough to do multi teleport jumps. Or what if they have already created a clone years ago but it escaped and, in its rage, destroyed the building it was held captive in along with all their research, so they have had to start from scratch? And what if that psychic Pokémon took dad away?"

"That's a big leap Ash" Delia said "but I can see where you're coming from. Let's keep this to ourselves for now. It seems your time is nearly up for training Ash. The next year will fly by so, we'll use this time to prepare. We'll start on cooking and sewing tomorrow, Ash as it's high time you learned to survive in the wild, so we'll be taking several trips this year under the guise of holidays".

"Mum" Ash asked suddenly "why aren't you angry at Blue for abandoning Dad?"

"I was for a while Ash" she said sitting down and sighing "but I also knew how stubborn your father was. If he told Blue to leave, then Blue had to leave. He was Blues boss in that incident. And as he said he was the only one with a psychic type that could teleport to get help quickly. Blue is still feeling guilty over what happened, don't forget he grew up with your father, he was his best friend and he feels that he should have died alongside your dad and nothing anyone says will ever change that. It took Blue several years of therapy to get past that guilt. It's difficult to be angry at someone when you know they're hurting just as much as you".

Nodding Ash left to go to his room and think over what had been said today. He had a lot of mixed feelings. And Giovanni still felt off to him, it was irritating.

The next year indeed did fly by. Ash continued to train every single day and learned as much as he could in that time. It was during this time that me met someone who would change his life. Running at the side of a stream one day he saw a Pokémon being attacked by a few Spearow. Running at them and shouting at them he scared them away and saw that it was a Pichu holding an apple. He also noticed it was a lighter shade of yellow than they normally had been described as. Taking little notice of that for now he knew it needed to be healed as soon as possible. Oaks lab was about half a mile away so that was the only option for now. Without thinking he picked it up and was immediately electrocuted. It was only a mild shock, but it was enough to make Ash fall down to his knees and pulse his aura out to shield him as much as he could.

"Stop Pichu, I'm only trying to help you!" Ash said startling it "you need to be healed"

Calming down a bit Pichu looked around and saw who had picked him up. He immediately knew this child was different from normal. He could visibly see the aura pulsing from him and knew he was special. Reining in his electricity was difficult given his condition but he eventually succeeded and not a moment later the Pichu passed out. Ash quickly stood up and ran all the way to Oak's lab, bursting into the healing room he shouted for the professor to help him. Oak came running into the room, saw what the issue was and immediately acted. "I'll have to capture it Ash so it can be healed in this machine. I promise I'll release it once it's healed" without waiting for an answer Oak brought out a poke ball and captured the Pichu. It didn't even shake. Placing it into his healing machine he turned it on "it'll take about three hours to heal Ash. It was very nearly too late. Where did you find it?"

Ash described where he found it and what happened. "Well, it seems your aura has helped you today, Ash, so good job. If you want to stay here for the next few hours waiting you may as well make yourself useful. Charizard has just arrived with his mate and a clutch of eggs. Come and help me do some checks on them. One of them is likely going to be a new trainers starter Pokémon in a few months when they hatch".

The next few hours flew by but Ash had to really concentrate on the eggs as he knew how important they were to not only Charizard but his mate too. Seeing nothing wrong he placed the last one in the incubators Oak had provided and made his way back to the healing room. Seeing the machine turn itself off he waited for the professor to come back. It may have only been a five-minute wait, but it stretched on for what seemed like an eternity. Walking back into the room Oak saw that Ash was waiting and chuckled "let's have a look at Pichu then, shall we?" opening the machine he took the ball out and called the Pichu out. Ash could immediately see it was much better judging by the little bolts of electricity coming from its sac pouches "wow, a shiny Pichu" Oak exclaimed "we don't often see many of them around here. Whoa" Oak shouted as he jumped out of the way as it launched a Thundershock at him "he has such great control already? That's unheard of in a Pichu" jumping out of the way of another Thundershock he quickly recalled it. "Wow. I think I better release it outside. Ash I may need your help" as suddenly sparks were seen to be coming off the poke ball. Running as fast as they could they rushed outside. Just in time it seemed as the poke ball burst open, shattering it into many pieces. The Pichu burst from inside panting, obviously it had taken a lot out of it to be able to do that

"Well Professor" Ash said turning to him "it clearly doesn't like poke balls" walking over to it he knelt ignoring the warning from Oak. "As for you little one you might show a bit more gratitude to the man who saved your life. I got you here just in time. And the professor was going to release you as soon as you were healed so that little show was unnecessary, so I believe you owe him an apology".

Instead, the Pichu looked up at Ash, muttered a few "Pi's" and ran away into the nearby woods. "Well professor it seems the fun is over for today. I have to say though I like that Pichu's spirit. Whoever gains him for a partner will be a lucky person".

"Indeed Ash" Oak said shaking his head still looking at the woods "I would have liked to study it some more, a Pichu with a perfect Thundershock and no recoil is almost unheard of. That was a very rare specimen. Anyway Ash, onwards with the day"

Time rushed forwards and before he knew it there was only a month left before Ash was due to set out. It was during this time that he sat down with Delia and Sam to discuss what starter he wanted to have. Usually, Sam would just get one of the three starters and have the newbie trainers pick one but given what Ash had achieved over the past five years Sam offered to pull some strings for him.

"The thing is professor I plan on capturing all the starters for my team during my journey anyway so I'm at a loss on which one to pick as my starter" Ash said

"Ah ok Ash" Oak said thoughtfully knowing he couldn't tell Ash what he knew about him due to his activities with Celebi. Sam very clearly remembered seeing Ash with a Pikachu, he even had sketches of the event amongst his many drawings. Would they change if Ash chose a different Pokémon? Would Sam even remember the original drawings and memories. Ash's voice interrupted his musings.

"I keep going back to the Pichu we met eight months ago professor. My mind keeps being drawn to him, wondering how he's doing now, if he's someone else's partner yet".

"That was a very interesting and unusual Pokémon Ash" Oak said "As you said though we'll likely never know. Do you want a Pikachu to start with then?"

"I don't know" Ash said frowning "it just won't be the same though will it?"

"No dear it won't" Delia said "why don't we think on it some more then? How much notice do you need Sam?"

"At least three weeks Delia" Oak replied. "There's a lot of paperwork that comes with it that I must fill out as a new trainers' sponsor".

"Then Ash will give you his answer by the weekend. If he doesn't then he'll have to go with the starter Pokémon you usually offer" Delia said standing up "come on sweetie, let's go home. Thank you for the meeting, Sam. It's much appreciated".

Ash had taken nearly a week to decide and had come up empty handed. Deciding to train in a clearing he had found years ago he relaxed into his fighting stance and went through his morning routine. Shadow fighting was an artform, having no opponent you had to rely on your imagination to believe you had an opponent. Throwing Aura spheres and spike at the various trees he was about to finish up when all of a sudden one of his Aura spheres was batted back to him. Ash automatically opened fire from where it had come from with more spheres into the trees, seeing them come back at him alarmed Ash but was also fun. After a minute of this Ash stopped "Ok whoever you are, you can come out now. That was fun but I don't want to hurt either of us"

After thirty seconds Ash was ready to give it up as a bad job when a golden Pikachu walked out of the trees. Ash gasped, this was the very Pokémon he had been talking about to Sam "you evolved? Wow, look at you. How have you been Pikachu?"

"Pi" came the reply "Pi Pikachu Chu Pika".

"Ah ok, well you look very well Pikachu" Ash said shocking it. Chuckling he carried on "yes, I can understand you. I have the gift of Aura, given to me from Lady Arceus herself to aid her in the future."

"Pi Pika pichu?" Pikachu asked coming forward.

"Yes, that's why I've been training here every day" Ash said "so you've been watching me have you? I knew I felt a familiar presence at times but yes, I have been given a task by Arceus, one I cant talk about just yet. But it is vital to her so I won't be around here much longer though. I start my Pokémon journey in a few weeks' time and I was just here today to clear my mind and to pick a starter to travel around with".

"Pi pikachu Pi?" Pikachu asked

"Yes, but I can't pick one" Ash said "Ever since I met you many months ago, you're the only one I could think of to pick but I had no idea where you were anymore. I was offered another Pikachu, but it just wouldn't be the same. And I'm never going to force you to come along with me Pikachu so I'll have to choose a normal starter. Well, it was nice seeing you again Pikachu. I'm glad you're ok now anyway".

With that Ash jogged off and continued with his day. He told his mother about meeting Pikachu but as it was wild he knew he'd have to forget it. Sending a message to Sam that he wanted a Charmander he started to organise his backpack. While he still had three weeks left he wanted it sorted before he left. He had ordered a special set of weights that could change how heavy they were up to a certain limit. They had only been released by Silph company a few months before but the Elite Four swore by them so that was enough of an endorsement for Ash and they would be instrumental in his training. His mother had also made him a new outfit to travel in. he started to stock medicines and canned food for now. When he was out in the wild though he would be relying on berries and fishing to provide food. Luckily his year of travelling with his mother had clued him in on what he could and could not eat. While he knew there was some things that only travel experience could get you Ash was still more ready than many other people his age before they set out

A few weeks before Ash was due to set out on his journey, he was called to Oak's lab for a meeting along with his mother. Wondering what was going on they arrived there and asked Oaks aid to tell him he was there. Walking into Oaks office he saw the professor sat behind his desk.

"Hello Ash, hello Delia" Oak said "I've called you here to apologise to you" seeing his confused face he carried on "you see over the last four years I have typed up all your scribblings and presented them to my colleagues around the various regions. I haven't used your name, I gave them a pseudonym and as long you are a minor your true name could be hidden. That and very few people would take a six-year-old seriously but your work has been instrumental Ash. It has been revolutionary even. Trainers, doctors, even professors worldwide are using your essays to discover new things with Pokémon that they never thought possible." Handing Delia a folder he said "this is the bank account that was set up in Ash's name to hold all the money that his books have made."

Opening it up Delia gasped. She didn't know that there was that much money in the world to start with. Ash would never want for anything in his life "Why are you just telling us now?"

"Ash is about to set off on his journey" Oak said leaning back in his seat "As such the moment he gains his Pokedex he becomes a young adult in our world and will have access to everything that is in his name, including his bank account. While you still retain the rights of being his parent he will still be a young man that can buy anything he wants without having to ask you first. That is a lot to place on a young man. I know full well that should Gary be offered the same he would squander it very quickly but hopefully he grows up sooner rather than later.

I also must release the name of the person who wrote the books, he can no longer hide behind a false name. Ash is about to become very well known in our world and you both needed to know" turning to Ash he continued "Ash, you are the most remarkable young man I have ever known, your intelligence and dedication are incredible but you are about to be thrown into a world very few are truly ready for. I know I certainly wasn't. Your mother has done a magnificent job in raising you so I hope I don't have to tell you to be sensible.

I know this is a lot to take in. and as an apology I'm giving you something that I've never offered before to someone your age. Given your obvious knowledge on Pokémon I am granting you Junior Professor status. This comes along with a few perks such as a private room in Pokémon centres, early access to new thesis' and free items in the Pokemart, up to a certain amount. Now this is not being given freely. I have been speaking with Charles Goodshow, Giovanni of Viridian the hardest gym, Blue Oak the current champion and Lance who oversees the Elite Four about a project that needs someone not already in the system to do. We have received rumours of gyms in Kanto being unfit for purpose, leaders handing out badges for free or leaders being too harsh on new trainers and not teaching them what gyms should teach" seeing his confused face he elaborated "each gym has a specific challenge for trainers to conquer, not just a specific type. I cannot tell you what they are, but you will know what it is once you battle them. Once you've completed the gym challenge I will need a comprehensive report that I will give to Charles, Blue and Lance to discuss any changes that need to happen. It's a very important job Ash. I wouldn't trust it to anyone else. Now I'm afraid that I have a meeting scheduled at 2 with a colleague who you will likely meet just outside Vermillion. His name is Bill".

With that Delia and Ash left and walked home in silence. Sitting down at the dinner table Delia opened the folder Sam had given her. "Is it a lot mum?" Ash asked.

"Sweetie you could retire on this and you've not even started your journey" Delia said shaking her head "I always knew you were special Ash. Even before your aura incident you were clever and seeing this makes me so proud. I'm annoyed at Sam for what he's done, he should have consulted me first but I'm also grateful that your future has been secured".

"Our future mum" Ash interrupted "that money is both of ours. And I know you're going to object, but I will find a way of sending you money should you not accept it. As you said it's much more than I could possibly spend so If you have any dreams that you had to put on hold to raise me then you now have the money to do it. You have always wanted to open a restaurant, now you can".

"I will think about it Ash" Delia said standing up "now let's go and see what's in the pantry for tea."

Chapter 2: Chapter 2- The Journey Begins

Chapter Text

The journey begins.

It was finally time Ash thought as he shouldered his rucksack looking around his room. He had done everything he could in the five years since speaking with Arceus and Mew. Five years where he had trained every single day mastering his aura, honing his body for what was to come. Looking in the mirror he saw the young man looking back at him. Ash was fairly tall for his age at just under 5-foot, messy jet-black hair with blue undertones and startling blue eyes. He had a very athletic toned body; he wasn't overly muscly by any means, but he was certainly very wiry and was very strong. He had discovered in the book his dad left him that Aura wielders had denser than usual bones, designed to absorb the impact aura usage did to the body. They were stronger than normal people, could withstand more injuries and healed very quickly. Ash knew this to be true given the training regimen he had been on and the number of injuries he'd sustained over the years.

Walking downstairs he saw his mother waiting for him with a teary smile on her face. Giving him a big hug, she said

"Oh, Ashy" she said "where has the time gone? It only seems like yesterday that I was bringing you home from the hospital. Now you are a young man about to set out and make your mark on the world. I am so proud to be your mother. Now before you leave with your starter, I want you to come see me. I have a few going away gifts for you. Get going."

Leaving the rucksack next to the door, given he was returning shortly Ash left walking down the long familiar road to the windmill that sat atop Oaks laboratory. Oak had given all the trainers starting a set time to arrive, staggered so that they could receive their starting kits. Walking up to the gate he noticed a large crowd assembled there. It seemed like someone had hired a cheerleading crowd to see someone off. As the crowd parted, he knew immediately who it would be.

"Well, well" said a snide voice "it's the loser. Are you sure you're in the right place Ashy-Boy?"

"Well, this is your grandfathers lab right?" Ash replied back with a raised eyebrow "I mean I know you're slow Gary, but I would have thought you'd know what this place is. And given you've seen me come in here many times over the years I would have thought that it would have clicked in your tiny brain what this place is seeing as how your own grandfather runs the place."

Hearing sniggers from the assembled crowd one of the cheerleaders shouted at him "Hey, you can't say that to Gary. He's going to be the best trainer in the world" and as if they had a hive mind they all started chanting "Gary, Gary he's our man. If he can't do it no one can".

"Oh, my word" Ash said laughing tears rolling down his face "you actually have cheerleaders? Who the hell thought that would be a good idea?"

"That would be me" said a voice from the side as the crowd parted and Blue Oak walked forwards "I even bought him a car to travel to each city."

"You bought an eleven-year-old a car?" Ash asked incredulously "poor Sam. His intelligence has clearly skipped a few generations."

"Hey, you can't talk to my father like that!" Gary shouted, "you're just jealous that you have no one to see you off".

"And who's fault is that, Gary?" Ash asked seriously. Seeing his confused face, he continued "why don't you ask your dad whose fault it is that I have no one to see me off, see if he tells you the truth. And as for you Blue, I wouldn't get too comfortable sitting in the champion's seat. In a few years it won't be yours to sit in anymore, not that it should be anyway seeing as you never earned it. Now I have an appointment to keep. Good luck Gary. You're going to need it".

Turning his back on them he walked to Sam's laboratory. Hearing Gary ask what he meant he walked on unconcerned. As far as Ash was concerned Blue was partly responsible for what happened given he had attacked Rockets base without back-up. He may not have been ultimately at fault for what happened to his father, but it was because of him that his dad had to go in and rescue him resulting in his disappearance. He still couldn't fathom how his mother forgave him and he didn't think he ever would. Walking into the lab he saw the professor sat behind his desk filling out forms.

"Who's bright idea was it to give Gary a car?" Ash asked sitting down across from him.

"Don't Ash" Sam said holding both hands up "I've had this discussion, at length with my son. Hopefully, I've dissuaded him from hiring those cheerleaders he was thinking about getting Gary".

"You might not want to have a look out of your window then" Ash said smirking "it doesn't look like either message got through to your son".

Shaking his head Sam leaned back. Looking up he mumbled "Arceus help me" standing up he walked over to a podium where a solitary poke ball sat on it. Picking it up he walked back and placed it on his desk. Pulling out a box he opened it and pulled out an electronic device. Ash had heard of them and seen a few in the hands of the various trainers that had passed through the ranch. It was Oaks pride and joy and it was called the Pokedex. It was his crowning achievement, an encyclopaedia on every Pokémon in the Kanto region, one which had been adapted by every other region to include their region. This one wasn't the usual red that he'd seen various trainers have though. This one was Blue and purple.

"This Ash is a National Pokedex. On it is information on every Pokémon in the world, not just from the Kanto region. It is also your personal identification, has your bank account, and a map of the regions. Should you lose this it cannot be replaced so take safe care of it. Inside this ball is your new partner." At that moment, a cry from the window drew both their attention. Opening it up Sam leapt back as a Pikachu jumped in and started chattering away.

"Oh, wow" Ash said shocked "professor this is the Pichu whose life we saved all those months ago. It seems after the conversation I had with him a few weeks ago he has given it a lot of thought and it has demanded to be my partner" getting a nod and a "Pi" Sam sat down.

"Well, I haven't registered this Charmander as yours just yet so that shouldn't be an issue. I seem to recall though that it has a certain hatred for pokeballs. How are you going to transport it?" Pikachu answered that by hopping onto Ash's shoulder and looking defiantly at Sam. Chuckling Sam shook his head. "You still need to be caught by Ash to be registered". Placing an empty pokeball on the table and seeing the uncertain look on Pikachu's face he carried on "I'm sure Ash can let you out straight away, but this is non-negotiable I'm afraid. It's for everyone's safety in case of a dispute should you be stolen or claimed as someone else's. This way it can be proven that you belong to Ash."

Muttering Pikachu made its way onto the table sniffing at the pokeball. Shaking its head in clear disgust Ash chuckled "it won't be for long Pikachu. I promise you that as soon as you're registered I will let you out and never force you into the ball again unless I have no other choice". Sighing the Pikachu touched the button and clicked it in. Immediately the ball began to rock back and forth before it stopped and the button went black.

"Well Ash, it looks like you got what you wanted after all" Oak said cheerfully "This Pikachu is rather special. Why don't you use your new Pokedex and scan it".

Lifting the device, he scanned Pikachu. A cool voice immediately said "Pikachu, Pokedex Number 25, the Mouse Pokémon, It stores electricity in the electric sacs on its cheeks. When it releases pent-up energy in a burst, the electric power is equal to a lightning bolt. This Pokémon is Male, has the ability Lightning Rod and has a Mild nature. It knows the moves Iron Tail, Thundershock, Thunder Wave and Quick Attack. It has the egg move Volt Tackle, but it has not yet been unlocked. It's unusual colouring signifies this Pokémon has the shiny gene."

"Wow professor" Ash said whistling "you weren't wrong about him being special, were you?"

Standing up Sam gave Ash Pikachu's pokeball. "No, now there are a few things I need to tell you before you set out. This year a few new changes have been implemented by the Pokémon League. For starters, battles. Your Pokémon can know as many moves as you can teach it but you are only able to use four in an official battle so think carefully before blindly giving orders as it is an automatic disqualification should you use five. There is a new system that has been implemented this year regarding battles. Should two or more Pokémon be involved in the fight from one side then the prize money will double what you'd normally receive. This is done automatically through your Pokedex who will listen out in a battle.

As you're a junior professor you are able to use your Pokedex to gain access to materials that are normally restricted. Be warned Ash, should you abuse this privilege then it can and will be revoked. You can also use it to access your own room in Pokémon centres too. I have already told you about your main mission from the league. You are not to tell anyone except your mother or myself about that. After every gym battle you need to write a report to me about how it went and what the experience was like and at the end of your journey, I will collate them all and send them to Charles, Blue and Lance. I think that is everything for now. Here is Pikachu, your Pokedex and five pokeballs to start you on your journey. I wish you the very best of luck Ash".

Thanking the professor Ash walked out of the building. Thankful that the crowd had disappeared he released Pikachu who immediately jumped onto Ash's shoulder and started muttering about tight confined spaces. Chuckling Ash walked to his house and told Pikachu about his plans for the near future and that tonight he would have serious discussion with Pikachu about what happened with Arceus. But for now, he had his mother to say goodbye to.

Walking into his house he shouted for his mother to join him in the living room. Immediately Pikachu was picked up and cooed over. Ash looked on bewildered, both Sam and himself were attacked by Pikachu when they first met him but here was a complete stranger to Pikachu and he did nothing. "Oh, Ash he is so adorable. Is this the Pichu you rescued? I can see why you wanted him. He is very special, isn't he?".

Looking at Pikachu questioningly he received a sheepish reply of "you don't mess with a mum."

Shaking his head thinking about traitorous little mice Ash replied "He sure is mum. I just wanted to introduce you to my new partner before I left. You said you had something for me?"

Placing Pikachu down she walked over to a box that was on the table "yes, I have the latest pokegear here for you. I have already stored both mine and Sam's number in it so there should be no excuse to keep me updated on your progress. I have also bought you a blanket that I've already placed into your collapsible tent. And I also thought you should have this" she finished pulling out an item.

Gasping Ash walked over and reverently picked it up "Dads hat. Mum, I can't take this".

"Don't be silly Ash. Red was going to either buy you one or give you this when you left anyway." She replied "he would want you to have it. And it's only collecting dust here".

Placing it on he marvelled at the feel. It was like having a piece of his dad with him. He had grown up on the stories of Red Ketchum as his dad was a legend in the Pokémon world. Hugging his mum he thanked her and picked up his rucksack "well I need to leave now mum. I love you. Thank you for being my mother."

Openly crying Delia hugged Ash and kissed his head. "Take good care of yourself Ash. And you too Pikachu. Look after him for me" receiving a "Pi" as Pikachu jumped on his shoulders Ash left "I'll give you a ring tonight to tell you where I am, hopefully I should make Viridian in the next few days. Oh, and if you want a laugh go and ask Sam what Blue bought Gary as a leaving present. By Mum."

Walking out of Pallet Town was a strange experience for Ash. He had never left here without his mother; he had never crossed the boundary without Oaks Charizard so this was all brand new to him. Ash had been travelling for several hours along the path chatting away to Pikachu about his plans for the future and what his task was off Arceus.

"I may have to kill Pikachu, as might you, so if you're unsure about following me then I'd leave now. Otherwise, I am going to be training you to the bone every single day until you become feared by trainers everywhere. I know the reputation of Pikachu in general, a cute little mouse that needs to evolve before it becomes worthwhile".

"That will change" Pikachu said determinedly his cheeks sparking "I will say now that I have no desire to evolve Ash. I have seen the arrogance of Raichu in action and I know that I have the potential to be stronger than them so I will stay as a Pikachu. And I will also stay and train and as long as the person we kill deserves it then I am willing to do so, even if its reluctantly. Lady Arceus gave you this task, and she brought you to me for a reason. If we must be her judgement on Earth, then I'm fine with that".

"Good" Ash said "I won't lie, I was worried you'd leave. Now then we must come up with a training regime and I have virtually unlimited funds so when we get to Viridian I will be buying you supplements to go along with your food. That too will be specialised. I will also be covering all your weaknesses as much as possible. I already know your electricity is strong, but I eventually want you to shatter boulders with a single attack, rock types will fear you Pikachu. For now though lets go over what you know and perfect your current moves. You already have Iron Tail which is perfect for the first gym leader in Pewter City. We won't see him though for roughly a month so we have all that time to get you as strong as possible. I'm hoping to turn your Thundershock into Thunderbolt by that point too but I'm not worried if we can't just yet".

With that Ash took out the weights and attached them to Pikachu's limbs and tail "these are only on the light setting for now but over time I will increase their limit. We're going to work on your speed for now. Every morning we will go for a run no matter where we are, I will train alongside you, and we will get stronger together. We will then stop for lunch. Later on in the afternoons we will be working on moves and then around 4pm every day is when we will carry on travelling. We will be in bed by ten. This is a tentative regime so far, and we will try and keep to it as much as possible.

"Ok Ash. That sounds reasonable so far" Pikachu said "I reserve the right to tell you when I'm at my limit though. Don't forget I've trained on my own for the last few years, I know a lot of where my strengths lie" Nodding Ash began walking while Pikachu walked alongside him getting used to the weights. Every now and then they would come across a wild Pokémon and battle it. Ash had no desire to catch any of the Pokémon on Route 1. Battling the occasional Pidgey and Ratatta gave Ash a good idea where Pikachu's base was and Ash limited Pikachu to just Quick Attack for now. His mantra was "you can't hit what you can't see". And so, this carried on over the next few days as they travelled and got to know each other. It was at the end of the second day when things went wrong. During their training one of Pikachu's Thundershocks went wayward from the boulder he was aiming at and lit up a Pokémon in the grass at the side of it. Stopping what they were doing Ash and Pikachu walked over to see what they hit. All of a sudden, a loud cry came from it "Speeeaaarrooow"

"Oh crap" Ash said, "that's not good. They never travel alone Pikachu. We need to leave here now" packing up as quickly as he could he had just put his rucksack on his shoulders when he began to hear wings in the distance. Lots of wings. "Pikachu, run" and with that they took off running into the nearest set of trees. Panting they stopped and waited for the horde to pass. There must have been at least 30 Spearow that passed by over the next few minutes. Staying there for ten minutes after they passed Ash deemed it safe to carry on "we really need to improve your aim Pikachu" he said chuckling as they tread along the path to Viridian. Around evening the weather began to turn quite bad. Lots of storm clouds were starting to gather in the distance so they began to look for shelter. Finding none they decided to set up the tent under a few trees at the side of a clearing and wait for the storm to pass by. Just as Ash put the last tent peg in, he heard a noise behind him. Turning around he saw a Spearow land looking furious.

"Oh crap" Ash said for the second time that day as it shrieked again and in the distance he heard a reply. "Pikachu, we may need to fight here. We won't have time to pack up and leave. I will help as much as possible using Aura spheres and lances, but the majority will have to be done by you. I won't be holding back either" within minutes the horde had arrived and started to attack. Pikachu and Ash were hard pressed to do much but little by little they thinned out a third of the horde. By this point though they were both scratched up and exhausted and looking over at Pikachu Ash knew that they wouldn't be able to take them all on, their tent was no protection against 20 Spearow either so he needed to come up with a plan. At that very moment Ash heard a rumble up above. It was if a lightbulb went off in his head.

"Pikachu, I need you to fire as many Thundershocks as you can into those clouds as quickly as you can. I know we're at the point of passing out here, but this is our last chance."

Without hesitating Pikachu did as he was asked. After a minute of this Pikachu sat back exhausted. He was out of electricity. Seeing this the Spearow began to dive bomb them. Just before they were about to hit though a massive lightning bolt came down from the clouds and hit a few of the Spearows. "Pikachu, jump into the next bolt and use the strongest Thundershock you can, don't worry about hitting me. I can use my Aura as a shield for most of the damage" Again without hesitation Pikachu did as he was asked and the world turned yellow and the cries of pain from the Spearows echoed for miles around. Ash and Pikachu passed out next to each other just as the world went silent.

Coming to Ash noticed he and Pikachu were not alone, surrounding them were the bodies of at least twenty knocked out Spearows, many of which were blackened husks. Nudging Pikachu awake he shook his head and cleared the cobwebs away "Well Pikachu, it looks like we survived. You were amazing Pikachu. Thank you, you saved us both."

"How did we survive that, Ash?" Pikachu asked bewildered.

"I have no idea Pikachu, I'm just grateful we did" Ash said standing up and looking up to the skies. "Look Pikachu!" he exclaimed "am I seeing this right?" above them a rainbow had appeared after the storm had ended. Flying into it was a magnificent golden bird. Quickly taking out his Pokedex and pokegear he snapped a picture of it "it's Ho-Oh Pikachu". "Ho-oH, Pokedex number 250. The Legendary Rainbow Pokémon. A legend says that its body glows in seven colours. A rainbow is said to form behind it when it flies. It will reveal itself before a pure-hearted trainer."

Not realising how good hearing Ho-oH had she looked down at Ash. So, this was the chosen one? The one who would bring balance to the world? Making a decision she circled around and landed in the clearing surprising Ash "Greetings Chosen One" a musical voice said into his head "so you are the destined child who will bring balance to our world once more?"

"Erm, yeah I guess" he stuttered as a reply "Arceus told you about that? Sorry, I'm just stunned, no one will believe this."

"Does that matter to you?" She asked.

Shaking his head, he said "No, not at all. It's enough for me to know I'm telling the truth. The people who matter will believe me."

"Good answer young one" Ho-oH said deeply impressed by his answer and began beating her massive wings rising back up into the sky "take care Ash. We will no doubt see each other again". With that she flew off at great speed into the distance. Turning back towards his tent he stopped as something landed on his shoulder. Grabbing it he saw that it was a feather. Not just any feather though "A Rainbow Wing Pikachu" he muttered "we truly are blessed". Placing the feather underneath his hat he packed up and they carried on with their journey.

The next day after their morning workout the two continued travelling. Occasionally Ash would instruct Pikachu to hit random berries with a Thundershock to improve his aim.

Coming to a stream he saw a young woman there fishing. She had orange hair, was wearing a yellow top with shorts held up by braces. She also looked to be a few years older than Ash. Observing for now he watched as her Rod bent over and whatever she caught was clearly putting up a fight. With one massive heave she hauled whatever she caught out of the water and screamed. It was a clearly pissed off Gyarados who had opened its mouth and had begun charging an attack. Seeing it was a Hyper Beam and would kill her, Ash jumped out.

"Quickly Pikachu Thunder Wave followed by Thundershock" Ash called out.

Without hesitating Pikachu launched himself forwards and lit up the Gyarados with a Thunder Wave. As soon as the attack hit it screeched as it was temporarily paralysed. It was then blasted backwards by Pikachu's Thundershock. Ramping up the power it turned into a Thunderbolt. Crashing twenty feet away into the water the Gyarados knew it was beaten. It had only just evolved a few days ago so knew it wouldn't have a chance against a trained Pokémon just yet.

"Congratulations Pikachu, you just unlocked the basics for Thunderbolt" Ash said picking him up "we'll have to start training more on its usage and we'll soon have you blasting rock types all over the place"

Hearing a snort of derision, he looked over at the trainer he had forgotten about "something funny?" he asked

"Don't you know anything?" came the snide reply "rock types are immune to electric attacks. What else should I expect from a newbie though?"

"Well, I clearly know more than you do given it was me that just saved you from having your head separated from your shoulders from an angry Gyarados" he replied "come on Pikachu. We have places to be." Just as he was about to leave he saw her turn and shriek "My Bike!"

Looking over he saw that it was blackened and burned. It seemed Pikachu had destroyed her bike when he attacked the Gyarados. Shaking his head Ash began to walk away.

"Hey, not so fast!" she screamed "you owe me a new bike!" at that she began charging at Ash with a mallet in her hand. Instinct took over and in an instant he had her pinned face down to the ground, the mallet a few feet away and her arm being twisted

"Now is that any way to thank us for saving your life?" Ash asked.

"You destroyed my bike. You can't just leave" she screamed into the ground.

"What's your name missy? And don't lie" he asked twisting her arm further making her cry out.

"It's Misty of Cerulean City" She cried.

"Well Misty of Cerulean City, I would think that a destroyed bike is a small price to pay for me saving your life don't you?". Looking down he noticed a red Pokedex sticking out of her pocket. Grabbing it he pointed his own at it and said "Dexter, can you transfer 10,000 poke dollars to the Pokedex with the serial number MW180688 please" hearing a beep to signify it had been done he placed it at the side of her head and said "Now this time I will let you walk away. The next time you won't be so lucky" standing up Ash carried on walking away leaving her to clutch her arm in pain swearing she'd get revenge.

The middle of the third day Ash and Pikachu came up to Viridian City. This place did not hold very good memories for Ash. His father had disappeared here eleven years ago, and he had also spent a week in a coma here five years ago. So, he wanted to be in and out of here as quickly as possible. Walking into the Pokémon centre he handed Pikachu over to the nurse Joy to be looked at while he made his way over to the telephone booth. Dialling Sam's number he waited for him to pick up "Hello Ash. Are you at Viridian City already?"

"Hi Professor" he replied "Yes, I am. I got waylaid by those bloody Spearow though. I thought Dragonite had taken care of them like he usually does at this time of year?"

"Ah it slipped my mind this year Ash. Sorry about that. I'll send Dragonite tomorrow to deal with them" Sam replied sheepishly.

"There's no need professor" Ash said "Pikachu and I took care of them. We may have fried a few though as his Thundershock attack was aided by a Thunderbolt from the storm yesterday".

"No worries, Ash. Was that all you rang to tell me?" Sam asked.

"No, I'm going to send you a picture on my pokegear. You need to promise me you won't freak out" Ash said chuckling. Sending the picture of Ho-oH Ash waited for Oak to receive it. Seeing Oak turn around to open the picture in his emails he heard "IS THAT HO-OH?" cancelling the call Ash laughed as he called his mum and informed her of what had gone on, heavily edited of course. She was proud of what he'd achieved so far and was happy he paid for the bike. He did destroy it after all. Hearing his name being called he said goodbye to his mum, picked up Pikachu and went up to his room. It had been a long day.

Ash found it rather hard to unwind after the events of the day. Feeling a bit hungry he decided he'd go and see if there was a vending machine he and Pikachu walked downstairs to the lobby. Just as he was about to enter the lobby, he heard raised voices coming from the other side of the door.

"Give us all your Pokémon or we'll burn this place to the ground" a voice of a woman said nastily.

"Yeah, you don't want to mess with Team Rocket" came a suave voice.

"Cough them up Nurse. We know this place is loaded" a third voice said with a Brooklyn accent.

"This place houses sick and injured Pokémon. They're of no value to you" Nurse Joys distressed voice came.

"We'll decide whether they're valuable or not. Ekans, get ready to bite her if she's not more receptive" The womans voice said cruelly.

Ash decided this would be the perfect time to act. Quietly he told Pikachu of the plan. Bursting through the door he saw two people dressed in Rocket uniforms and a Meowth at the desk, a small purple snake was poised on the floor ready to launch at the clearly terrified Nurse Joy. Ash launched an Aura sphere at the Ekans while Pikachu used a Thunder Wave at the trainers paralysing them. A Koffing came out of nowhere and bodily tacked Pikachu, but he was ready and rolled back onto all fours and launched a Thundershock at it knocking it out.

Going over to the trainers he searched them for their pokeballs. Finding them he recalled the knocked out Pokemon and told Nurse Joy to call the police while he secured the Rocket members. Ash despised Team Rocket for what they had cost his family. "Who are you twerp?" the man asked terrified. The trainer in front of him had been unbelievably efficient in taking them out. Ignoring them Ash looked around "where is the third person? And where is the Meowth? You better talk before I start breaking bones".

"Don't tell him James. Go ahead. Do your worst" the woman said as she came around "we'll tell you nothing".

"But Jessie, he looks serious" James said earning a derisive snort from Jessie and a "tell him nothing James. He won't do a thing".

"Have it your way" Ash said as he grabbed the purple headed man's hand and yanked on a finger bending it backwards. Screaming from the pain James shouted "he has gone in the back looking for Pokémon. But he'll have heard this commotion and will have gone for back up" James was bluffing with that but the trainer didn't know that and would surely fear them now that more would be coming

"Good, let him bring more people. And I'll beat the crap out of them too" Ash said breaking his finger causing James to howl. He wished this would have happened outdoors, he would have tortured these two for hours. Standing up he said "Pikachu keep an eye on these two and wait for the police. I will go see what's happening with the Pokémon in the back" walking out and into the back area of the Pokémon centre ash quickly found where the intruder was. He could hear noises and mutterings from the ajar door. As he went to open it, he heard from inside "Jessie, James? Have you guys finally decided to do some work? Help me lift these balls down before someone hears us and calls the cops."

Opening the door Ash was shocked. Where he had thought it was a man it turned out to be a Meowth. And a talking one at that "about time youse guys" Meowth said before turning around. Seeing Ash, it jumped back in shock "you're not Jessie and James. What have you done to them?"

"Not as much as I'd have wanted to believe me" Ash said "But right about now the police should be arriving to collect your friends. Shall we go and join them?"

"You'll never take me alive twerp" Meowth said jumping at Ash with his claws out "taste my Fury Swipes". Meowth was clearly untrained as he was unbelievably slow. Sidestepping Meowth he smacked the back of Meowths head in mid-air and launched him into the wall stunning him. Ash quickly grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and Meowth went limp. He knew when he was beaten. "I'll go quietly twerp".

"Good choice" Ash said walking into the lobby where he saw Officer Jenny had turned up. She was in the middle of taking a statement off Nurse Joy when Ash arrived.

"Ah, and here's our hero" she said "I am Officer Jenny. It seems thanks are in order for saving our Pokémon centre from thieves".

"Think nothing of it" Ash said throwing Meowth at Jessie and James "this guy is the third member of their inept little group. He's promised that he won't be any trouble, haven't you?" Ash said threateningly. Getting a whimper as a reply Ash nodded satisfied. Giving his statement to Jenny he helped her load them into her van, gave her his pokegear number in case of anything else she needed and watched as she drove away. Walking back into the centre he wished Joy a goodnight and went to bed. He knew that Team Rocket was usually more lethal than the group tonight had been. His and Pikachu's training was clearly showing merits though and paying off. What a day he thought as he drifted off.

The next morning Ash awoke and made his way down to the canteen to get breakfast. Sitting down he began to dig in when another person sat opposite him. Looking up he was surprised to see it was Giovanni.

"Imagine my surprise when I woke up this morning to find my nephew had come to my city and not popped by to say hello. I feel a bit hurt Ash" Giovanni said, a smile belying his words.

"I only arrived late yesterday, Uncle, and last night was rather eventful" Ash said shaking his head

"Yes, Jenny told me this morning about you stopping some thieves from robbing this place" Giovanni asked questioningly.

"Team Rocket members apparently" Ash said.

Immediately Giovanni straightened up "do you mean to tell me those scum came back to my city and tried to rob my Pokémon centre? The absolute audacity! For eleven years I have meticulously kept this city crime free. Not even a wallet goes missing without me knowing about it and now Rocket is back and the first place they hit is here?"

"If it makes you feel better the three I captured were unbelievably inept" Ash said "I had them beaten inside ten seconds.

"It does not Ash. Those bastards cost me a brother-in-law, you a father and my sister a husband. I must go, I have three criminals to deal with" standing up Giovanni clapped Ash on the shoulder and left.

"Something is odd about him Ash" Pikachu said as he had been quietly observing them both "something is very strange about him. It's like he's trying to keep up an appearance."

"I know" Ash said "I have felt the same for as long as I have known him, I just have no idea what it is. Now come on, we have shopping to do. I want to get you specialised food for electric types as well as vitamins. We'll change your training routine every two weeks to focus on different areas. After all what good is your speed and special attack if your defence is awful. Your Mild nature makes you quite the special powerhouse, but it has serious drawbacks defensively" standing up they went about their business. After another night drawing up plans and training schedules Ash and Pikachu went to bed. Tomorrow they would brave the Viridian Forest and needed a good night's sleep.

Chapter 3: Chapter 3- Pewter City

Chapter Text

Pewter City

Ash and Pikachu took their time leaving the following day, but he knew that to reach Pewter in less than a week he needed to walk around six miles a day. Setting off he stopped into the police station to make sure there was nothing Officer Jenny needed from him first. Getting a negative he set out along route 2. Along the way he came across various trainers who he beat and soon enough he came to the entrance to Viridian Forest. He knew he would likely be in here for at least four to five days, so he made sure to stock up on food and essentials.

Keeping to the path Ash ventured in marvelling at the noises and environment around him. Chatting to Pikachu along the way about the various bug types Ash came to the conclusion that he didn't need one so their battles would just be basic sparring to gain more experience. Ash had heard rumours about there being a guardian of this forest. Apparently, every major forest in Kanto and Johto had one so he wondered just what it was, if there was one to start with.

Ash had always loved being alone, he found it gave him a lot of time to work though his own thoughts and feelings on many situations. He was still unsure about what he would be required to do given Arceus lack of information. All he and Pikachu had was pure speculation and guesswork and for someone who relied on facts this was incredibly frustrating. He had been walking now for several hours when he heard a noise off to his left. Immediately Ash tensed up waiting for whatever it was to make itself noticed but what he didn't expect was an attack from above. Rolling away he span around to see what it was that attacked him. It was a Pidgeotto only this one was huge. Usually, they stood around two to three feet but this one was pushing five feet and it wasn't even a Pidgeot yet. Ash had read accounts over the years about variants of Pokémon being different from normal, from shiny to size differences. Only a select few mentioned Royal Pokémon. This one was clearly a Royal. They were much bigger than usual, were better in battle and generally rarer than any other variant.

Pointing his Pokedex at the creature it bleeped to life "Pidgeotto, Pokedex Number 17, The Bird Pokémon. Very protective of its sprawling territorial area, this Pokémon will fiercely peck at any intruder. This Pokémon is Male and its unusual size marks it as a Royal Pokémon and is the largest ever recorded".

"Look Pikachu" Ash said, "it's a Royal Pidgeotto."

"It looks big" Pikachu said making Ash chuckle.

"Of course, it is" Ash replied "that's why they're called Royals. They're usually tougher than normal types of their species. I wonder why this one is attacking us".

"I did not attack you human" came the unexpected reply from the Pidgeotto startling Ash "I was merely trying to warn you from venturing further into the forest. Every other trainer I have tried to warn has ignored me and tried to capture me. I hope you're different."

"You know" Ash said to Pikachu surprising the Pidgeotto "at times I forget that I can understand pokespeech because it sounds like normal speech to me. Yes, I can understand you. Like yourself I too am one of Arceus' blessed and I have no intention of trying to capture you."

"Good" Pidgeotto said "that makes this easier then. Do not venture further into the forest human. Something that my kin have kept hidden has stirred once more. Infection has started to spread at the forests heart and I fear my father may be unable to keep this at bay for much longer."

"Then take me to it Pidgeotto" Ash said interrupting "I am an aura wielder. As such I can purge infections. I only ask you to bring myself and Pikachu back to this point should we either fail or succeed."

"Very well Human" Pidgeotto "against my better judgement we shall go to my father" with that Pidgeotto walked into the trees with Ash and Pikachu following them. They walked for half an hour chatting to each other about what the issue could be. Pidgeotto remained very cryptic in its responses before they came to a clearing that had many Pidgey, Pidgeotto and the odd Pidgeot nesting in various trees. At the centre was a huge tree.

"The heart of the forest" Ash muttered walking up to the tree.

"Not quite" came a reply from above as a huge Pidgeot landed in front of them. This one must have been easily eight feet tall "Why do you enter my domain human?" pointing his Pokedex at it "Pidgeot, Pokedex Number 18, The Bird Pokémon. This Pokémon flies at Mach 2 speed, seeking prey. Its large talons are feared as wicked weapons. This Pokémon is male and its unusual size marks it as a Royal Pokémon and is the largest ever recorded".

"Another Royal?" Ash said surprised "how many of them are there here?"

"Just my family" Pidgeotto said from Ash's side. "Father" he continued bowing at the larger bird "this boy has been blessed by Arceus herself. He has volunteered his aid against the darkness that has begun to spread from the Heart."

Looking keenly at Ash the Pidgeot said "is he indeed? Do you have proof of this claim human? How do I know this isn't a ruse to capture us?"

"Yes" Ash said launching an aura sphere up into the air surprising them all "Arceus blessed me with Aura. I can use it to cure infections depending on how bad it is. She called me the Chosen One."

Immediately mutters rang out from the various birds that had landed and listened in. "Silence! If I find out you are lying about this human, I will not hesitate to attack you" Pidgeot said.

"You can try" Ash said unconcerned "but I guarantee we will both suffer should you do so. Now I came here to try and help so do you want it or not?"

After a pregnant pause Pidgeot said "very well. Pidgeotto lead the human to the heart. Keep an eye on him."

Walking around the big tree Ash followed Pidgeotto through a little path which opened to a massive lake with an island at the centre. There was a narrow strip of land connecting the forest with the lake centre and on it stood a withered tree. Ash saw immediately that there was an issue as it looked blackened, burned, and dead.

"It is said amongst my kin" Pidgeotto said "that should the tree bloom again a guardian will return to tend to it and the forest shall find balance once more."

"Well, I can give it a go" Ash said walking around the tree mentally preparing himself "now I have only done this twice before, once on a plant that had withered and once on an infection a Machop had sustained in its hand at Oaks Choral. Nothing like this though but I will do what I can. Now Pikachu" Ash said turning to him "this will be very difficult as it needs full contact to work. If it looks like I am about to pass out I need you to give me a Thundershock or tackle me away from the tree. The lack of contact will halt what I am doing. It is very dangerous for Aura users to overexert their aura usage as too much can lead to death."

With that Ash took his backpack off, sat cross legged in front of the tree and let his aura loose. Placing his hands on the tree he began to search the trees very soul for the root of the infection, making it glow a vivid blue. It was very difficult going, it had clearly been in this state for some time. The infection was huge. Pidgeot had come to join them and watch Ash's progress. The tree itself had started to change colour going from a burned black, to a rotted brown. Whatever Ash was doing was clearly making a difference.

After half an hour of this Ash let out a strained noise and Instinctively Pikachu launched himself at Ash and knocked him away from contact with the tree. Instantly the tree stopped glowing blue as did Ash, who passed out. Gently Pidgeot picked him up in his talon and carried Ash back to his father's tree as Pidgeotto and Pikachu followed.

"I don't know what he did young Pikachu, but words cannot express our gratitude" Pidgeotto said as they landed in Pidgeot's nest and looked at the sleeping Ash.

Sleepily Ash muttered "not finished yet" before he passed out completely. He didn't wake up until the next morning when his whole body ached. "Ow" he said out loud. Hearing a snort, he struggled to turn his head and saw a very concerned Pikachu and an amused Pidgeot staring back at him.

"Well young human" Pidgeot said "it seems I was very wrong about you. Very wrong indeed. I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for our forest. The heart has never looked better."

Struggling to sit up Ash replied "I haven't finished yet. The infection has gone down to its very roots and if I don't finish it, in less than two years it will be back to how it was. Can you take me back there? I should be able to finish it in an hour, the worst was purged yesterday." Immediately Ash's stomach growled "after I've eaten" he finished hanging his head in embarrassment.

A few hours later they made their way back to the tree "same again Pikachu. It shouldn't be as bad this time though. There are only the roots to sort out and I can take my time doing this" sitting down again Ash worked his way through each root cleansing it of any infection. Wondering how this had happened Ash was nearly finished when he found something that shouldn't be there. Extending his Aura he found that one of the roots was wrapped around an object. Stopping what he was doing he looked around and saw Pidgeot.

"How long have you been protecting this tree?" Ash asked.

"My ancestors started doing so a few centuries ago. Why?" Pidgeot replied.

"And no human has been to this spot in that time?" Ash asked ignoring Pidgeot.

"Not that I'm aware of. Again, why?" Pidgeot said.

"I'm going to need to dig up one of its roots. There's an object underneath here that seems to be the cause of all the infection and one of the roots is wrapped around it" Ash said standing up and walking to where his backpack had been left all night. Taking a small shovel from the side off it he began to work on where the object was located. The more soil he unearthed the more they all felt the presence of the object. While not malevolent something was clearly not right with it. Coming to the root Ash put a shovel through it and separated it. Picking it up he cleared the object of any soil and roots and stared amazed at it. It was a jet-black stone with strange markings on it, oddly curved like it represented a part of a sphere. It looked like a strange puzzle piece to Ash. Taking out his pokegear he took a picture and sent it to Sam. Turning to Pidgeot he said "I'm going to ring someone; I won't tell them where I am, but he may need to see this. Something is not right with it". Dialling Sam's number, he waited for him to pick up.

"Hello Ash" Sam said cheerily "what can I do for you?"

"Hello professor" Ash said "I have just sent you an email. Have you received it? If you have, can you open it? I have found something that does not sit right with me inside Viridian Forest."

"Hang on" Oak said turning around to his computer "lets have a look. Yes, I have received it" opening it up Oak's voice immediately changed "Ash" he said sharply "where did you find this?"

Turning to Pidgeot he asked if he could tell him where he was. Receiving a nod, he replied "In the forest professor like I said. I found the Heart. The guardians there warned me not to go through the forest and I asked why and they told me that there was an evil that had infected the Heart, a tree in the middle of a lake and they could no longer keep the evil at bay. An infection was spreading to the rest of the forest, so I offered to purge it. I did so and saved the Heart, but I found that this was buried just below it tangled up in its roots. I've never seen this before, so I thought I'd ask you".

"Ash this is very important. I am going to send Dragonite to your location with a lead box. You must limit your contact with it. I will tell you more about it once I receive more information from a contact of mine in Hoenn, but this is a very good thing you have done today Ash in finding it" Oak said seriously "Dragonite will be with you soon."

"Wow" Ash said as Oak hung up on him. Turning to Pidgeot he said "this must be very serious if he's sending Dragonite" sitting down the next fifteen minutes passed by very slowly, unbearably so. Hearing wings Ash stood up and shouted so Dragonite knew where to land. Saying hello, he placed the stone in the box and watched as Dragonite flew away at top speed. He was out of sight before Ash blinked.

"It seems Human that we owe you a great debt of gratitude" Pidgeot said "should you need anything, and if it is in our power then we will help."

"There is something you can do actually" Ash said "In less than a years' time Lady Arceus told me that a great disturbance will sweep across Kanto. Can you send out messengers to warn Pokémon across the region to prepare themselves. I have no other information other than the balance of the world will be put at risk."

"That is most troubling but it will be done. I will instruct my son to set you back along the path we found you on as there is a shortcut that will get you to the next human habitation location sooner, it will save you a few days of travel. It's the least we can do" Nodding Ash climbed on Pidgeotto and flew away. Landing half an hour later he thanked Pidgeotto and carried on the path "Well Pikachu" Ash said, "not even a week into our journey and it's been eventful."

Carrying on with their journey Ash and Pikachu battled several trainers that they met. The hardest opponent was a young girl with a Scyther. Battling a faster Pokémon was very beneficial to Ash as it showed him where they were lacking so far. Pikachu still won; however, type advantage counted in this instance and the experience gained was invaluable. Checking his pokegear he saw that he was less than a day away from the exit so he decided to set up camp, quickly falling asleep. The day had been exhausting for Ash.

The next morning, they set out along the path. Ash was still playing through his own head the memories of the last week and in a world of his own when from nowhere a silver item came flying at his head. In an instant Pikachu had deflected the sword, for that's what it was from decapitating his trainer with an Iron Tail and Ash had pinned down the attacker. Without thinking Ash broke his arm twisting it and the trainer let out a howl

"What the hell man?" the trainer said wailing "you broke my arm!"

"You nearly cut my head off you psychopath!" Ash retorted "you're lucky I didn't kill you and bury you here for no one to ever find. Now get the hell out of here! But leave the sword" he finished picking the guy up and throwing him away from him.

"I am not leaving the sword. Go Pinsir" he said releasing his Pokémon. A giant stag-beetle emerged from its ball. It did not look that tough Ash mused as he scanned it "Pinsir, Pokedex Number 127, the stag beetle Pokémon. It Grips its prey in its pincers and squeezes hard! It can't move if it's cold, so it lives in warm places."

"Light it up Pikachu" Ash said as Pikachu launched a Thunderbolt at it sending it flying into the trees and knocking it out "One move huh. Well done, Pikachu. That Thunderbolt of yours is getting very powerful my friend."

"What? No way!" the trainer said disbelieving recalling his Pokémon. "I'll get you for this, you see if I don't" with that he disappeared into the trees still clutching his broken arm. Picking up the sword Ash mused on what to do with it as they carried on with their journey. He had no desire to wield a sword, and the hassle he would get everywhere he went off the police would be a headache. Coming to a decision he took out his pokegear and called the Officer Jenny in Viridian City

"Hell Ash" she said ash she picked up the call "what can I do for you?"

"Well, I was wondering if you could give your colleague in Pewter City a ring for me please and tell her I'll be coming into Pewter City some time in the early evening today" Ash said "I've just been attacked by a nutter with a samurai sword on the edges of Viridian Forest. I'm ok and unharmed" he hurriedly said "but the guy isn't. I broke his arm and confiscated his sword. He never gave me his name either before he ran off and I'll be handing the sword in to the police as soon as I get into Pewter. I thought I'd ring you to ask you to pre-warn them both about me carrying the sword and the guy that will definitely need a hospital visit"

Shaking her head in bewilderment she said "Only you Ash. Yes, I can do that for you. You'll have to give a statement to Jenny though and apply for a permit to use the sword. I'll also give the hospital a ring to contact us when he turns up."

"Oh, I don't want the sword" Ash said "I don't want the hassle of having to explain it to every Officer Jenny I see in future."

"No problem Ash" Jenny said "I shall let her know" and she hung up.

"Well, that's that sorted Pikachu" Ash said as they carried on walking. In the late afternoon they exited Viridian Forest and walked down the little path and stopped suddenly. In front of him was a stall but no one there manning it. Looking down he saw a rock on the ground that was giving off a strange aura. Picking it up he observed it. It was perfectly a spherical rock but before he could scan it with his aura, he heard a voice at the side of him that caused him to jump "that rock is ten pokedollars if you want it."

"Bloody hell old man" Ash said "you nearly gave me a heart attack. What do you mean ten pokedollars? It's a rock on the ground."

"Look around you, young man" the man said "this is my shop. I sell these rocks."

"You sell rocks?" Ash asked sceptically "rocks? As in these things I can find not ten yards away and take for free?".

"Yup" the man said happily "they may be free over there, but you picked that one up off my stall, which makes it my property. So, that's ten pokedollars."

Grumbling Ash took out twenty pokedollars out of his wallet and gave it to the man "keep the change to buy yourself a better disguise. That moustache and wig isn't fooling anyone" shaking his head and putting the rock in his pack to look at later he carried on down the path and into Pewter City. Heading towards the big red dome of the Pokémon centre he observed the town around him. It looked miserable. Everything was grey. Walking into the centre he handed Pikachu over while he called his mum to let her know he had arrived safely. Asking the nurse for directions to the police station he ventured there and gave them the sword and his statement describing his attacker. Going back to the centre he picked up his partner and went to their room for a shower. After a week of using nothing but stream water this was heaven.

Freshly showered Ash sat down at the computer and looked up things to do in Pewter. Apart from the museum and gym there was nothing. What a boring little town. Ash was used to that though growing up in Pallet Town but at least Oak's lab was there, and Pokémon are always exciting to be around. "Well Pikachu" Ash said, "there is nothing to do in this town except the gym and a museum."

Remembering the rock from earlier, he picked up earlier he took it to the sink and began to clean off all the dirt and mud from it and saw there was something inside the rock. "Pikachu, can you use Iron Tail on this rock please. Whatever it is inside it needs freeing." One Iron Tail later and the rock was in pieces on the floor revealing an object. Picking up he saw it was an orange-golden coloured rock with what looked like a tiny fossil inside it. "I'll be honest Pikachu I have no idea what this is. It looks like a fire stone but it's not giving off the same energy that those do. Maybe we should go to the museum tomorrow and ask them if they know. I'd imagine in a town where a guy sells rocks for a living, they should know about what's found inside those rocks. We'll do those tomorrow, I'm knackered tonight."

The next day after their training session at the back of the centre Ash and Pikachu debated on what to do first. Deciding on Rock, Paper, and Scissors as a way to decide Pikachu won. What was Ash thinking about choosing paper when Pikachu couldn't ball its hand up much and always chose scissors. Chuckling they walked into the museum, paid the fare and spent the afternoon looking at the exhibits. Walking around with the tour guide was very beneficial for Ash. Maybe this town wasn't as boring as he first thought. It was at the last exhibit that Ash saw something familiar. "Look Pikachu, it's the same rock we found yesterday" hearing this the tour guide stopped dead in his tracks and asked him to repeat what he said.

"Yeah," Ash said "yesterday an old man outside the city sold me a rock. Last night I split it open with Pikachu's help and the same rock that's in that exhibit came out" pulling it from his backpack he carried on "see, it's the same one" looking at the signage he read 'Old Amber'. "Old Amber, eh?" Ash said musingly "I wonder what it's for."

"That young man is something we can find out for you" the guide said. Turning to the rest of their party he carried on "I'm sorry but I must take this young man to see the scientists that help make these exhibits." Immediately grumbling started.

"Well, there's no reason you can't make this part of the tour for everyone is there?" Ash asked looking around at their group who all nodded enthusiastically "after all we all did pay for a ticket. And I'm not just going to go off with you and leave the rest of the group to always wonder what it is I have."

"Very well, follow me" the guide said leading them all through a door and into the laboratory at the back where a scientist came up to him to berate him. Raising a hand to silence any protests he said "I know we shouldn't be here. I have done this guiding for a few years now so I'm very aware of what I can and cannot do but this young man is doing the league challenge and found an Old Amber yesterday."

Immediately all work stopped, and they all came rushing over. Flaring his Aura Ash said "enough" pushing them all back "carry on and I will walk out of here. Now, this is the Old Amber I found yesterday. Can someone tell me what it is?"

"Old Amber is a fossil young man" the obvious head scientist said "a very strange fossil that contains DNA from millions of years ago to when prehistoric Pokémon roamed this planet. Calling it a fossil is a bit of a misnomer to be honest. Its essentially fossilised tree-sap that coats insects like mosquitos that fed off those Pokémon way back then thus having DNA of those Pokémon inside them. We have spent the last ten years working alongside various researchers coming up with a way to revive the fossils and made a breakthrough a few years ago at the centre on Cinnabar Island.

So far, we have records of only 25 known fossil Pokémon being discovered across all the regions. Kanto and Johto have 5, Hoenn has 4, Sinnoh has 4, Unova has 4, Kalos has 4 and Paldea has 4 but there may be more undiscovered. As you found Old Amber here in Kanto it's highly likely it contains the DNA of one of the five from this region. If you like we can scan it and see just what kind of Pokémon you have?"

"Wow" Ash said excited "you hear that Pikachu; we might have a rare Pokémon inside this." Handing it over he said "please have a look" following the scientist to a machine that looked extremely Hi-Tech. The group gathered around and waited in anticipation. "This will only take a few minutes to scan it and we'll see what you have" those minutes dragged by for the group until it dinged and above the machine on a screen a silhouette appeared.

"Uh oh" the scientist said to Ash looking worried "I was afraid of this. Now, firstly congratulations, you have a viable fossil that can be revived. However, I will have to report this to Lance. This Pokémon, when awakened has always gone on a rampage straight away. It is vicious. It is called Aerodactyl and was the top predator during the time it was around. You need extremely strong Pokémon with you to be able to control it until it gets used to you so be very careful. When you reach Cinnabar and try and revive this you must contact Lance before doing so. It is a law that was put in by the league a year ago after one was revived and destroyed a lab in Kalos killing many people there."

Nodding Ash took back the Old Amber and put it safely away in his back. Handing over his pokegear number he told them to give it to Lance to contact him when he has the chance. He'd also tell Professor Oak too so he would be covered by his sponsor. Leaving the museum with the group he separated from them and walked towards a nearby park where he scanned the fossil Pokémon on his Pokedex looking for information on them. He wouldn't have minded having Kabuto or Kabutops. But Aerodactyl? "Aerodactyl, Pokedex Number 142, The Fossil Pokémon. A savage Pokémon that died out in ancient times. It was resurrected using DNA taken from amber. In prehistoric times, this Pokémon flew freely and fearlessly through the skies."

"I'll be honest Pikachu" Ash said after a few minutes of quiet "I don't know if I want to have an Aerodactyl on our team. I know we've discussed team members before, and there will be two slots available after we catch the starters but I'm undecided on who to get. I never imagined I'd have a fossil Pokémon, never mind the most vicious of them."

"So, it was a fossil then?" a voice said next to him sitting down. It was the old man that sold him the rock yesterday only this time he wasn't wearing a disguise. "I knew it was special with the way you held it."

"Yeah" Ash sad looking forward "turns out it's an Aerodactyl. The most lethal and unpredictable of all the fossil Pokémon."

Nodding the old man sat silently at the side of him "are you here for the gym challenge?" seeing the questioning look of Ash he continued "usually outsiders only come here for two reasons. The museum and the gym. You have already done the museum and haven't left so that leaves the gym."

"Yeah" Ash said, "I plan on entering the league this year so this is my first stop."

"What Pokémon are you going to use? Please don't tell me you're going to use that Pikachu?" he asked incredulously.

"Of course, I am" Ash said scratching Pikachu's head.

"Well, you will lose. You cannot face Brock with an electric type" the man said.

"You must be awfully familiar with Brock to drop his name like that and to know he will win" Ash mused unconcerned "either way I don't care. I will beat him no matter what he sends out."

Standing up the old man looked at him "I do know Brock yes; I'm his father and I gave him his first Pokémon. He uses rock types. You won't win."

Standing up with him he looked the man in the eye and said "watch me" and walked off towards the gym. He was very irritated. "Pikachu, we're going all out here. I'm sick of people underestimating us" getting a determined nod from his partner he continued "Rock types huh. Looks like you'll be relying on Iron Tail then but there's always a weakness, every Pokémon has one. We just have to find it."

Coming upon the Gym he walked in and told the receptionist he was here for a battle. Handing her his Pokedex she scanned it and asked him to take a seat. Sitting down he waited until his name was called and walked into the arena. It was littered with boulders, and the entire gym area seemed to be surrounded by rocks. Good, Ash thought. We can use those if we smash them up.

"Who goes there?" came a voice from the darkness.

"My name is Ash from Pallet Town and I'm here for a gym battle and to claim my first badge" Ash said confidently.

"I admire your confidence young man" Brock said walking into the light. He was a teenager, around six feet tall with spiky black hair and really squinty eyes "but overconfidence can lead to recklessness. Now, my receptionist told me you have Junior Professor status. That means this will be harder than a normal newbie battle. This battle will be 3 on 3 until either side only has one Pokémon standing and the challenger can substitute at any time. Those are my battle terms."

"Erm" Ash said, "that's fine by me but I have only caught one Pokémon so far." He said scratching Pikachu's head.

"A Pikachu?" Brock said bewildered "you came and challenged a rock gym with just a Pikachu? Tell me you are joking."

"I am not. You know your father said the same thing to me not half an hour ago" Ash said seriously "I already know what my team for the league will be and I won't deviate from that. I need your badge, which is why I'm here."

"You cannot take part in a 3 on 3 battle with just one Pokémon." Brock said firmly putting the mention of his father to one side for now.

"Well how about this then" Ash said, "I will battle you with just Pikachu, if I lose, I cannot challenge this gym again until I have 3 Pokémon."

Sighing Brock walked to his side of the battlefield "Very well. Buti do not want to hear any complaints when you lose because of your own arrogance. Geodude come on out" a small rock appeared on the ground with arms protruding from it. "Geodude, Pokedex Number 74, the rock head Pokémon. This Pokémon is male. Often found in fields and mountains. Mistaking them for boulders, people often step or trip on them."

"Geodude huh" Ash said sending Pikachu onto the battlefield "let's make this quick Pikachu. Quick Attack"

"Defence curl" Brock said shaking his head wondering how this trainer attained professor status.

Seeing Pikachu get closer he shouted, "Quick Pikachu, turn that speed momentum into Iron Tail."

"What?" Brock said and before he could say anything Pikachu smashed into Geodude sending it flying into the wall clearly knocked out. Coming back to Ash's side of the field Pikachu waited in silence.

"Great job Pikachu, that's one down. That Iron Tail is getting really strong" Ash said waiting for Brock to make his next move. Silently recalling Geodude Brock analysed his opponent. That was unexpected. Bringing out another poke ball he threw it and a Rhyhorn appeared. Ash scanned it with Dexter "Rhyhorn, Pokedex Number 111, the spikes Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. It is a Pokémon with a one-track mind. It is inept at turning because of its four short legs. It can only charge and run in one direction."

"Interesting" Ash said "Ok Pikachu we're going to try the same thing but beware of its horn. It cannot manoeuvre very well so let's use your speed."

"Rhyhorn use Take Down" Brock shouted, "And look out for its tail." For the next few minutes Rhyhorn and Pikachu attacked each other, both unable to land any solid hits but Ash knew that Brock could play the waiting game here. He still had one fresh Pokémon to send out after Rhyhorn so he needed to end this soon. "Pikachu new plan, circle around it and take its legs out with Iron Tail" quicker than Brock could react Pikachu did just that leaving Rhyhorn helpless as its legs gave way "now Pikachu Iron Tail to its horn before it can recover" doing just that Pikachu delivered a devastating Iron Tail and knocked Rhyhorn out cold where it was lay. Slowly walking back to Ash Pikachu shook itself and waited for the last Pokémon. He was clearly exhausted but knew Ash was relying on him.

"Well done, Pikachu, I'm very proud of you. Even if you lose the next battle, we have still shown that type advantages mean nothing if your opponent has strategy on their side"

"It certainly doesn't Ash" Brock said applauding him "normally you would have just earned the Boulder Badge, and I am going to give it to you anyway. So, I am declaring this match over, however I would still like to see how you fare against my last Pokémon. What say you?"

"You say we've got the badge no matter what?" Ash asked. Seeing the nod, he looked at Pikachu and said, "your choice buddy" receiving a "Pika" as Pikachu set itself on all fours facing Brock he looked up and said, "there's your answer."

"I will tell you now that you will not win. So, do not be disheartened when you lose. My last Pokémon was going to be an Onix. This Pokémon however is reserved for those who have years of experience and faces my Elite team" seeing his confused face he elaborated "each gym has two sets of teams. One for rookies to battle, usually first evolutions such as Geodude and Rhyhorn, nothing too difficult for people to face while still providing a challenge. The second set is for intermediate and advanced trainers doing the gym challenge after they have already competed in a league and want to challenge us again. They are the gyms Elite Pokémon. We all have at least six. So, I will use my 'weakest' and see how you fare. Let's go Golem" at that a massive boulder appeared onto the battlefield with four arms and a head protruding from it. Ash knew he was outclassed with this Pokémon. Pointing his Pokedex at it he scanned it "Golem, Pokedex Number 76, the megaton Pokémon, and the final evolution of Geodude. This Pokémon is male. Its boulder-like body is extremely hard. It can easily withstand dynamite blasts without damage."

"Erm" Ash said "yeah, we're not winning this one Pikachu. Not at the moment anyway but do your best buddy. Quick Attack into Iron Tail"

"Golem, use Rock Slide" Brock said knowing it was over with as it smashed the ground around it and sent the debris at Pikachu who had no chance of getting out of the way and was knocked out. Even fresh it would have struggled. Returning Golem Brock walked over to Ash who was spraying Pikachu with a potion.

"Well done, Ash" Brock said "as I said you had no chance against Golem and you knew it. But you still faced it head on together despite that."

"You said Golem was your weakest of your elites" Ash said standing up "why?"

"Weakest is a loose term to be honest Ash" Brock said "Golem has only just evolved about two weeks ago so he's still not really used to his new body and is susceptible to receiving attacks. At times he still believes himself to be a Graveler with the way he moves."

"Ah ok, that makes sense" Ash said "so what's your gyms motto then. Professor Oak told me that each gym has a hidden challenge and that beating the leader doesn't guarantee they will receive a badge."

"He is correct Ash" Brock said "most trainers come here with Water and Grass types and just expect to win. Most do as I use my rookie squad, so they never really learn the lesson I'm asked to teach by the league. But for those who face my elites my motto then becomes evident. Meeting a rock-hard challenge head on with grit in the face of adversity. You have more than done that taking me on with just a Pikachu. So, it is my honour to present you with the Boulder Badge. Congratulations" Brock said holding his hand out where a badge lay on his palm. Taking it he showed it to a now partially recovered Pikachu and said "well buddy, that's one down" shaking Brocks hand Ash left to go but was held back in Brocks firm grip "you mentioned my father before? Can you tell me where he is?"

"He's the rock peddler just outside the city, next to Viridian Forest." Receiving a nod but no further elaboration Ash left Brock to go the Pokémon centre where Pikachu was healed, and Ash typed up his first of his many reports to Professor Oak about the gym challenge he had just faced. Looking over at Pikachu on his bed he said "I am very proud of you Pikachu. I want you to know that." Finishing up Ash climbed into bed and was out as soon as his head touched the pillow.

Elsewhere Brock was trekking up to the entrance of the Forest where he saw a man just packing up rocks "Hello Father, long time no see."

Chapter 4: Chapter 4- The Words I Shout At Mt Moon

Chapter Text

Chapter 4- These Are The Words I'll Shout At Mt Moon

Ash and Pikachu woke up bright and early the following morning and followed their normal routine. Pikachu had recovered from the battle yesterday and was right as rain today. He told Ash that one day a Pokémon like Golem would have no chance against him rather than the other way around. Ash swore they'd do everything they could to make that a reality so, Ash tweaked Pikachu's training regimen. Since he had received Pikachu, he had focused on their speed in training with a few Special Attack sessions. Now though Ash was planning on an entire month of defence and he decided that would be how they would proceed from now on. Gaining a training partner was going to be crucial for their development, unfortunately though that proved very difficult so for now Ash would have to be his training partner.

"I'm going to start off with low powered Aura spheres" Ash said "I don't want you to deflect them. And while dodging them is what you'd normally do you need to learn how to take hits. The match against Rhyhorn gave me an idea of what your defence is like so far. I'll be honest Pikachu, its not great but we were also at a type disadvantage. So, for now every training session we'll increase how many hits you take. We have around two weeks before we get to Cerulean City so that's at least fourteen days of defence training we can get in. I will also be providing you with Iron supplements with your food to boost your defence and we'll look at new moves for you to learn along the way. You need another move to take out Rock and ground types. I was thinking Rock Smash or Brick Break in case you're ever unable to use your tail but without directions I'm clueless on how to proceed. And you never know, we may find you a partner in Mt Moon."

And so their day progressed. As they were sitting in Ash's room looking through the Pokedex he had a bit of a brainwave. Dialling Sams number he waited for him to pick up.

"Hello Ash" Professor Oak said smiling "what can I do for you? Anymore legendaries you've met?"

Chuckling Ash replied "No today professor. Well, it's rare but not legendary" seeing Oaks curious face he continued "I bought a rock off a man in Pewter City that gave off a weird Aura. Nothing like the one I sent to you so don't worry but when I broke the rock, a fossil came out. I took it to the museum and showed it to them and they told me its viable to be revived."

"Well now" Sam said sitting back "that's certainly rare. Did you find out what it will be?"

"Yes professor" Ash said seriously "so much so I've been told to ring you and Lance about it. It's an Aerodactyl."

"Oh dear" Sam said sitting forward "that's a shame. I'm afraid that I cannot sanction a rookie trainer to have such a lethal Pokémon Ash."

"No professor you misunderstand me" Ash said interrupting "I haven't revived it yet, and I have no intention of having such a vicious Pokémon on my team. So, to cover my back I told them that I'd tell you. They have told me they'll contact Lance themselves about it too as apparently it's now a law, but I was wondering if you could too. He's unlikely to respond to anything I send him as he must get spammed with emails every day from random people."

"I think you underestimate yourself Ash" Sam said "you're forgetting you have professor status. Not only that but your thesis on Dragon Pokémon and their desire to be strong was signed off by Lance and is now a part of his classes that he teaches on them. Send him an email and if you don't get a reply off him let me know and I'll send him one. Was there anything else Ash?"

"Yes actually" Ash said "It's about the Pokedex. It's a fantastic piece of machinery and I can see why you'd be so proud of it but I noticed that it tells you what moves your Pokémon have and there's no feature that tells you what they can learn or how to learn them. I wanted to teach Pikachu Rock Smash or Brick Break in case his tail is unable to be utilised but there's nothing. I was just wondering if that could be implemented or why it hasn't already. I'm having to use a computer to find out information like that which isn't great, especially as I'm outdoors for most of my travelling."

"Ah yes" Sam said "that's always been an issue. The developers at Silph have been trying to put that feature in place for a while now but the head of Silph keeps pushing back on it. Something about making his computers obsolete which is a nonsense given the other uses we have for computers and the fact the Pokedex already reels off moves your Pokémon have. So, for now you'll have to stick with using computers. My advice? You already know the first four members of your team and what they're going to be. I'd just learn their move sets for now and what they can learn."

"What an imbecile" Ash said shaking his head "that looks to be the only thing I can do professor. I'll send Lance that email then. Thanks for your time professor"

"No worries, Ash" Oak said "I'm proud of you by the way. Not many rookie trainers would turn down having a powerful Pokémon on their team."

"What's the use in having a powerful Pokémon if it's uncontrollable and unpredictable?" Ash said shrugging "bye professor." Turning to Pikachu who had been listening in he said "well that was a bust. Let's get going. I'll just send Lance that email before I forget and print off the step-by-step guides for Rock Smash and Brick Break. Hopefully you can train along the way, Mt Moon is usually full of Rock types that you can practice on."

Walking downstairs he gave the Nurse his key and made to leave when a voice stopped him. Turning towards the table he saw it was Brock.

"Hey Brock" Ash said shaking his hand "what can I do for you?"

"Well, I forgot to give you this yesterday after our battle" Brock said handing over a small CD "it's a Technical Machine, or TM for short and inside it is a move. Now I have no idea how that works, the boffins at Silph came up with it but with these you can teach your Pokémon whatever move is inside it. This one is TM26, Earthquake. Usually, it would be TM34 for Bide, a move I'd usually use Onix to showcase to rookie trainers but as you fought one of my Elites you qualify for this move.

Be careful with this move Ash. It can be devastating to your surroundings as it literally shakes the ground. It's the second strongest ground type move there is so take the necessary precautions. Using it in a gym or the league stadiums will be fine as they're insured and strengthened, anywhere else is risky. To use the TM your Pokémon must be inside its ball, then you attach the TM to the pressure point and it does some sciency thing and voila, your Pokémon knows the move. They're one time deals though, so make sure you choose the Pokémon wisely.

Once your Pokémon learns this it will know the basics of the move, but it won't be perfect without practice, so make sure wherever you choose to practice this is away from people and houses. Especially houses. My kid brother found one of these TMs laying around the gym, taught it to his Geodude and nearly flattened our house. Luckily my house is reinforced. Anyway, Ash I just wanted to give you that and my pokegear number. I will likely see you around at some point."

"Oh" Ash said bewildered wondering which Pokémon he'd eventually have it would be most useful for. "Cheers Brock. How did it go with your dad?"

"Well, I found the git, if that's what you're asking" Brock said. Seeing Ash's confused face, he continued "my mother and he pretty much abandoned myself and my siblings so they could go on a journey a few years ago. He came back not long after but apparently was too embarrassed to show his face so, when I saw him yesterday, I hit him for abandoning us. I've had to look after all my siblings in that time. Now he's back though he can do his job as a parent. I'm going to be doing a bit of travelling myself, hopefully to become a breeder or a doctor. I've never really been fond of battles."

"I'm glad you hit him" Ash said nodding his head "gets the point across rather well doesn't it. Well, I wish you well Brock. Message me if you like, I'll try and reply when I can."

Shaking each other's hands, they parted ways with Ash making his way East to Route 3 while Brock returned to the gym. Walking along the path he battled many trainers and beat them easily. Pikachu was far too advanced for these trainers. So much so he never bothered taking any money off them when he beat them. He knew he was in danger of becoming arrogant, so the reminder of Brocks Golem was all they needed to stay humble, for now at least.

A few days later Ash arrived at cross-roads. He read the sign. North was Mt Moon. North West however was Rota and Cameran Palace

"Uh oh" Ash said to Pikachu, expanding his Aura outwards as they followed the Mt Moon path "we'll have to limit our aura training Pikachu, at least until we get to Mt Moon. I need to stay alert while were around here as I have no desire to interact with anyone from that place. And you can bet our training sessions will have alerted them we are nearby."

"Why?" Pikachu said confused "aren't the guardian's good people?"

"Depends on who you're asking Pikachu" Ash said "all the books say so; however, they're all written by people who live in Rota and are subjects to the Queen, who they will not slander. The current one, Ilene is an issue. My family, particularly my mother has a big issue with her, and my mother adores nearly everyone. My father was an Aura Guardian or was well on his way to becoming one at least when he went missing. My mother told me stories once my Aura became known. The royal family of Rota have always wanted to claim the Ketchum family for themselves. My ancestor is one of the most famous aura users of all time and so they think that fusing our families together would strengthen their bloodline AND potentially infuse it with aura and they will do anything to make it happen. The Queen at the time Rin was said to have had a secret daughter with Sir Aaron who escaped the wars by being secretly taken away and hidden. Seemingly I'm her descendent, being a bastard descendent though I have no claim on the throne.

Ilene wanted to be with my father, but Aura Guardians mate for life and we have only one destined mate too. Ilene knew this but still tried to do all she could to limit my mum and dads time together by sending him out on random missions. And as a sworn Guardian he had to comply. After he disappeared, they kept tabs on me in case I showed Aura powers. Apparently, it wasn't happening quick enough for Ilenes liking so she sent out one of her guardians to force the issue. Riley still maintains that it was purely coincidental that he happened on me that day to test my aura but I call bullshit though. That 'honour' thing they mention is only honourable as long as it serves their Queens wishes.

So, my mother called her lawyers. Up until I received my Pokedex I was protected by her as she is my guardian and we arranged for my training to be held under strict supervision, no known human aura users within one-hundred feet of me and limited time constraints. Now though, as I'm a young adult I'm free game. So, they will continue to hound me and the only way that will stop is if I swear loyalty to Ilene, which will never happen. The only good thing to come out of this situation is that Riley forcing the issue sent me to Arceus and is now unable to read my Aura properly because of the gifts she bestowed upon me. To them though that makes me even more of a target."

Walking in silence for the next few hours Ash kept up a steady stream of Aura pulses while Pikachu remained on alert too. "Look Pikachu. Mt Moon Pokémon centre" the red topped building was a welcome sight after a long few days of trekking. After a long relaxing bath Ash passed out. His dreams though were plagued with nightmares of voices calling for help and then pain. Waking up suddenly he automatically pulsed his Aura and found something was amiss. He wasn't sure where but there had been a massive spike in the worlds Aura and his automatic response would surely be felt by other Aura inclined users. Ash decided he would leave as soon as he could tomorrow morning. Being this close to Rota kept his sleep uneasy.

The next day however didn't go as planned. As soon as he and Pikachu walked out of the building he stopped as in front of him was two people he was desperate to avoid along with several others behind them.

"Ash Ketchum" Ilene said holding out her hand to kiss "we meet at last."

Looking down at her hand and then up at her he snorted "I'm sure the pleasure is all yours Ilene."

"Do not be so disrespectful Ash" Riley said walking up to him with a Lucario at his side "she is the Queen."

"No, she's your Queen, Riley. She certainly isn't mine" Ash retorted "nor will she ever be. Now, why are you here? Do I need to call my mother's lawyers?"

"We are here Ash because we needed to talk" Ilene said, "can we go inside where it's private?"

"No" Ash said refusing to move "we can talk here where there are witnesses to what's said. In fact, I'm going to record this conversation so that nothing can be misrepresented or misconstrued between us all" taking out his pokegear he flipped a button on, and it began to record.

"Delia has done a wonderful job on you hasn't she" Ilene said sourly shaking her head.

"Of raising me?" Ash asked "Yes, yes, she has and I'm damn proud to be her son. Now, stop wasting my time and tell me what you want."

Sighing Riley took over "what we want Ash is your help. I know you felt that spike last night, your response to it was the only reason we knew you were here after all. We would like to give you a Pokémon, a Lucario to travel with you and to find out what's wrong. We could call this a request or reparations for all the help we've given you in the past. Aura guardians have always traditionally served Queen Ilene. It is an honour few get to experience."

"What you mean" Ash said interrupting him "is that you want to give me a Pokémon, that will spy on me and report all my goings on to Ilene, where hopefully you can use something to blackmail me into serving her and thus having a Ketchum become indentured to the Royal family once again. Nope, not going to happen. And you talk about reparations as if it wasn't your fault in the first place. I know full well what happened, why it happened and who ordered it to happen Riley. You don't wipe your arse without Ilene telling you to do so. So, let's try again shall we. What do you want?"

Seeing all the people around her looking at him in horror Ash continued "For those of you who are clueless about what is going on let me enlighten you. I am Ash Ketchum, direct descendent of Sir Aaron Ketchum and Queen Rin."

"Lies!" Ilene said incensed "that is a lie! You have no proof of that claim"

"Oh, come on Ilene" Ash said laughing "literally everyone knows it's Rotas not so secret dirty little secret. Your ancestor had an affair with mine. It's our families biggest shame. But as Rin wasn't married yet, despite being engaged at the time it meant my many times grandmother had no claim on the throne. Not only that but she was removed in secret due to the wars that were happening so she couldn't be used as a bargaining chip.

Ilene sent Riley here to attack me to see if I had the gift of Aura. He did and in doing so awakened my aura powers. The training I was given was because an untrained aura user could become dangerous, and they were hoping I'd serve as a guardian when I grew up. Ilene doesn't like the fact that yet another Ketchum has aura powers while her family doesn't and wants to shackle me to do her bidding, just as every ancestor she has had has tried to do in the past, just as she tried with my father Red. When he rejected her for my mother, she tried her best to keep them apart. Your family have tried for years to bring the Ketchums back into the fold so that my family would then become yours due to your family being royalty and having Primacy. Then all the rumours of the past would mysteriously disappear as it wouldn't matter anymore when you start popping out Aura users. Well, I will not be shackled. I already serve a mistress Ilene here cannot compete with so nothing you two say will sway me. As for help, you're a big boy Riley, go and find out what happened yourself."

Shaking his head in disgust Ash walked back into the Pokémon centre and attached the recording to an email he sent to his mother. Ash knew he'd need as much evidence against them as possible to survive any kind of legal case they would come up with. Just because something was tradition didn't make it mandatory or right. Walking back out he saw that they were still there, quietly talking. Always wanting to get the last word in Ash said "Ask yourself Riley what honour really is. Is it honourable to force someone to do something they do not want to do simply because your Queen commands it?"

Not looking back Ash adjusted his backpack and walked straight on to the path to Mt Moon.

"I'm sorry about that Pikachu" Ash said as they walked "normally I'm more level headed than that, but what that woman has done and tried to do to my family sets me off. And justifying it as tradition will never fly with me."

"It's a lot to take in Ash" Pikachu said "I've been raised to believe in the goodness of Aura users. They're the ones who fight for Pokémon and defend them so it's tough to believe what you've told me."

"Well, I'm not going to try and sway you either way Pikachu" Ash said stopping at the path to Mt Moons entrance "you're allowed your own opinion, and I will respect it. I just ask that you respect mine. No doubt at some point you will get the information you need to bring you to my way of thinking, OR I will get information which makes what I've said false, and I'll owe someone an apology. We may never know. For now though I will be standing behind my mother on this as she has personal issues with Ilene that aren't false. Anyway, here we are. Mt Moon. Normally the guidebook said it should take around a week to travel through it." Walking up the steps to the entrance took around fifteen minutes. In that time Ash noticed that several things were wrong

"Ash" Pikachu asked, "Why are those Zubat and Sandshrew outside the cave?"

Pointing his Pokedex at them it beeped to life "Zubat, Pokedex Number 41, the Bat Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. Zubat avoids sunlight because exposure causes it to become unhealthy. During the daytime, it stays in caves or under the eaves of old houses, sleeping while hanging upside down.

Sandshrew, Pokedex Number 27, the mouse Pokémon. This Pokémon is male. It burrows deep underground in arid locations far from water. It only emerges to hunt for food."

"I was wondering the same thing Pikachu. Somethings wrong here. Let's keep our eyes and ears open" Ash said as they passed them by. Immediately he could see the issue. "Who the hell has placed lights inside this cave? I knew there was torches every now and then to keep people on the right path but lights? I think we found out why the Zubat and Sandshrew were outside Pikachu. Someone is interfering with the natural environment. Can you chew through those wires?"

Receiving a negative they both continued walking following the cables on the wall. A short way in they met someone. It seemed from his lab coat that he was a doctor. "Hello!" the man shouted "and who might you be? My names Seymour, I'm a scientist. I'm looking for Clefairy. Have you come for the moon stone as well? Well, you can't have it!" he said before running off down the path leaving a bewildered Ash and Pikachu

"Let's just find the generator that's powering these lights Pikachu and help restore those Pokémon their homes. Hopefully we don't see that nutter again" walking on for several hours they decided to take a break. The lights and the heat coming off them created a humid atmosphere but luckily Ash had several canteens of water on him to last them the trip though Mt Moon. Sitting down and having a snack they were chatting amongst themselves when Ash heard a rustle in his bag. Looking over he noticed a pink ear from behind it. Pointing his Pokedex at it it beeped

"Clefairy, Pokedex Number 35, the Moon fairy Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. Its magical and cute appeal has many admirers. It is rare and found only in certain areas."

"Wow Pikachu" Ash said "a real Clefairy. I've been thinking. Mum must be pretty lonely at home without me there. What do you think about catching some Pokémon to send to her?"

Nodding his head Pikachu used a Thundershock at the Clefairy sending it crashing into the wall. Ash readied a poke ball when all of a sudden, a cry came from behind him "No! that's my Clefairy!" turning around it was the crazy guy from before "You can't catch it, it's mine."

"Oh, my apologies" Ash said, "why isn't it in its pokeball then?"

"Oh no, I don't own it. I just want it" Seymour said.

"That is not how things work" Ash said angrily "if it's wild then it's fair game to catch" turning around to see if it was still there, he noticed it had disappeared.

Looking back around he ducked just in time as a shovel was aimed at Ash's head. Using an Aura Sphere he smashed Seymour into the wall knocking him out. Noticing a shirt underneath his lab coat he opened it up to find a big red R on the shirt "Team Rocket" Ash growled as Pikachu sparked threateningly. "Oh, I should have bloody known they would be behind this Pikachu". Leaving Seymour where he was, they decided to carry on walking. The sooner they found the generator the better.

"Hopefully once we destroy whatever is powering these lights that guy gets lost down here forever" Pikachu said. Seeing Ash's surprised look, he carried on "I don't want to kill people in general, but those who interfere with a Pokémon's home deserve everything they get. I won't lose sleep over it."

"Seems like a personal back story there buddy" Ash said

"There is, but I'm not ready to talk about it just yet" Pikachu said going silent. Ash nodded and they carried on following the cables until they came to a wall that had collapsed and blocked off their path, but the cables carried on going through.

"This is the way forward Pikachu. I don't really fancy shifting all these rocks, but it doesn't seem like we have much of a choice" and with that the two got to work moving what they could. It was tough going, especially due to the heat coming off the lights. Finally, a few hours later they had created enough of a gap that they could go through safely. "let's stop here for now Pikachu. I don't really fancy catching up to Team Rocket and have us be exhausted" setting up their sleeping bag they decided to have a few hours sleep and hours later they awoke feeling slightly better. Carrying on they came to a ladder that went down. Taking out the guidebook Ash saw that several of these ladders were dotted around the interior of Mt Moon, some lead to caverns, some to dead ends, one was a set that lead to through the mountain and to the end. It was all a gamble really and you could end up having to climb back up. Seeing that they were still on the correct path though eased their minds. "Obviously Team Rocket wanted their way out to be well lit" Pikachu commented. "It seems like the cables deviate from the proper path here though. We're going to have to return here to leave."

Hours later Ash and Pikachu stopped again when they heard voices. Silently they entered a cavernous room where people were milling about. Altogether there was around eight people with one sat at a laptop and a Machoke behind him. Several grunts were securing Pokémon behind their cages and every now and then one would be taken out and threatened to behave while tests were run on them.

"We need to be stealthy here Pikachu and knock these guys out separately." Ash said furiously "We're going to have to lure them to us. I noticed a path off to the side about thirty yards back where we could put them? The lights don't go that way so it's dark enough to store people. Are you ok being bait at times? We can't let them live either Pikachu."

"I'm going to have to be, aren't I?" Pikachu said "go and hide in that corridor, you need to be quick though, we can't have them alerting everyone. And remember what I said about Pokémon and their homes. This needs to happen" at that they both went their separate ways. Ash left to go to the dark corridor. Walking down it he found it was only about forty yards long before it came to a dead end, hopefully that would be long enough provided he stored everyone at the end. Ash left his backpack as close to the wall as he could around a little dog leg at the end. Luckily it was pitch black and there was a little nook he could hide in to wait for people to come past and Ash's Aura use meant he could navigate pretty well in the dark. Ash was crouched waiting for someone to come when saw a flash of yellow go past him and he heard voices.

"Where is it? I know it went down this way."

"It went down there".

"I'm not going down there alone. It's dark!"

"Don't be such a baby, I'll be right here. Shout if you need me".

Grumbling the first grunt went past Ash. Silently as he could he waited for the grunt to walk a further fifteen yards before he reached the end. Without waiting Ash crept up behind him and quickly threw his hand over the man's mouth and using an aura lance pierced the man's head from behind with his other causing blood to rush onto Ash's hands. The man crumbled underneath Ash like a puppet with its strings cut. Not having time to deliberate on what he'd just done he quickly rushed back to the crevice and waited. After ten minutes Ash heard the second voice grumbling about it being dark. "Where is he? Jack! Where are you? This isn't funny man" the guy said as he walked past Ash. Waiting for him to walk on a bit further Ash repeated what he did with the first person. Breathing heavily Ash crouched down and dragged the man to where his friend's body was. Throwing him on top of the other man Ash sat down. Pikachu came from a hidden corner and observed Ash "you ok Ash?"

"No, but I will be" he said "I'll let myself think about this later. For now, we still have several others to do this to. I think we need to get rid of at least four more this way before we can safely challenge the rest. Let's get going Pikachu. Same again pal"

Over the next hour Pikachu managed to lure down three other grunts to the tunnel. It wasn't easy as a shiny Pikachu wandering the paths inside a mountain wasn't normal. And grunts were idiots, they liked to shout and talk to each other. And with each successful mission Ash knew that the chances of those remaining being fooled decreased. Especially given the grunts hadn't returned to complain about losing the Pikachu.

"Right Pikachu" Ash said as he wiped his hands bloody on the last grunts uniform "that's the last one I think we can safely lure down here. The grunts might be idiots but the guy at the computer is clearly their leader here today. I think it's time we take out the generator. What I'll do is create a noise and run this way, hopefully I can bring a grunt or two down here with me. I'm confident that my Aura lances will be able to do the job. What I need you to do is creep towards the machine and try and find a way to overload it. If there's no cables you can chew through than you may have to blow it up. Once that cavern is in the dark, we will be a lot safer as I can use Aura to find the man. The man will likely send out more Pokémon though so if you don't feel like you can win, then run to this corridor and hide. I'll try and join you as soon as I can."

Ash stood up and stored his backpack in the crevice. "Let's do this Pikachu" with that they walked down the pathway and out into the cavernous room. The two remaining grunts were looking around very nervously as the man on the laptop was being screamed at down the phone. "Change of plans" Ash said quietly "they're too bunched up. I'll hide behind that crate there and make my way around the place on the left. Creep round as quietly as you can on the right doing the same thing and take out that generator. Once it's dark it should be easier. And without power they can't call for back-up so we should be able to take them out in the crossfire"

Arnold was scared. He'd just got off the phone to the boss about the Mt Moon mission. He had told him that five of his grunts were incompetent fools and had chased a Pikachu into the mountain and hadn't returned. He despised incompetence. Why couldn't he be put in charge of the secret mission his boss had just set up, and not be stuck underneath a mountain. This whole mission had left him on edge and he was convinced the Pokémon were plotting something, he had felt the eyes of hundreds following him the entire journey down here. Luckily lighting the place up left nowhere to hide so he felt a bit safer but now five of his help had disappeared, so he had called out Machoke. His boss hanging up on him telling him to get on with the job didn't improve his mood.

Seeing a flash of yellow out of the corner of his eye he stood up. What was that? Walking over to where he saw it, he discovered there was nothing there. Looking at Machoke he was just about to ask if he saw something when the world exploded, and he flew into the wall. Or rather the generator exploded, and it plunged the world into darkness. Seeing two blue flashes on the other side of the cavern he pulled himself up and wondered what was going on. "Oi! Where are you two? We clearly have company! Machoke, find whatever has done this." From nowhere a silver flash appeared at his side and a groan as the Machoke was thrown bodily into him and pinned him down. Struggling to free his arm he recalled his Machoke before a foot pinned his arm to the ground. As his eyes adjusted, he felt pure terror for the first time in years. Glowing blue eyes were staring at him. "Who are you?" he managed to stammer out before the world went black.

Ash stood up and wondered what to do. His aura use meant the world around him had adjusted very quickly. Looking around he decided on a course of action. Walking over to the cages he addressed them all "Right, I am going to open your cages. I am not the enemy and you will be free to go. Be warned though, a little way off this cavern there are several dead bodies of the guys who put you in these cages. It will be unlikely that they'll be found as I won't be telling anyone about this" receiving cries of affirmation Ash and Pikachu bean to break the cages open. Several Paras, Sandshrew and Geodude quickly ran off in all directions. Opening the last cage, he felt his heart nearly break and his guilt disappear. Inside was a small Pokémon that looked severely injured. Pointing his Pokedex at it he scanned it "Cleffa, Pokedex Number 173. The Star Shape Pokémon and the pre-evolved form of Clefairy. This Pokémon is female. When numerous meteors illuminate the night sky, sightings of Cleffa strangely increase."

Looking around he saw that he and Pikachu were now alone "I'm going to have to catch it Pikachu or it will die." Touching a poke ball to it it didn't even rock. "we need to get out of here Pikachu. For now, it's in stasis but that won't last forever."

Rushing back to the passageway he picked up his backpack, gave the bodies one last glance and left. Entering the cavern, he found that natural light was coming from a hole in the roof illuminating a pedestal. Looking around he saw some strange rocks on the ground that glinted in the moonlight. Picking two up he put them in his pack and walked over to the ruined generator. Pikachu had done a good job. Hearing a noise he turned around to find the man from before stirring and without even flinching Ash strode over and pierced his head with an aura lance showering the floor with blood. "damn, I should have questioned him" Ash said "ah well, lesson learned". Hearing Pikachu shout, "over here" Ash walked over to find the man's laptop where it had blown clear of the blast and landed on a section of moss. How very fortuitous Ash mused. Standing up Ash and Pikachu left to head back to the actual path but along the way they stopped in a path just off to the side and rested. Pikachu knew Ash well enough to know he was thinking his way through his feelings.

"I know what you're thinking Pikachu" Ash said wryly "that I'm feeling guilty for killing those men. And you were right, right up until I saw what they had done to Cleffa. After that I didn't care anymore. Those men deserved to die, experimenting on babies like that is unforgivable. I plan on sending this laptop to Lance, anonymously that is and let him deal with it all."

"I knew you were thinking about it Ash" Pikachu said "you needed to think things through but I'm here if you need a sounding board."

"Thanks Pikachu" Ash said gratefully "I appreciate it. Hopefully with this place being dark again the Pokémon will start to feel at home again."

The next day Ash decided they would travel all day to reach the end of the mountain. Along the way they saw several Pokémon who paused as they passed but as they didn't do anything they left them alone. Hours later Ash saw a light up ahead of him "I believe Pikachu that there is light at the end of the tunnel" chuckling at his own joke they left and found it was night time. But it was the cool, fresh air was that brought them to their knees. It was glorious. "We won't be going back in there in a hurry Pikachu."

Walking along the route towards Cerulean Ash noticed a little stream. Ash decided to have a quick clean up and change as his clothes were covered in blood as was his hands. Deciding that he would be better off burning them Ash put them at the bottom of his rucksack and would wait until he was somewhere on his own before doing so. He didn't think he would be in Cerulean longer than a week so they would keep until then. Carrying on down the route Ash noticed there seemed to be an entrance into the side of the mountain that was blocked off by guards. Chatting to the guards he found out that it was closed off due to the Pokémon inside being incredibly strong. You needed a league championship under your belt before you could have access. Looking at the entrance he said "can you feel it Pikachu? There is something incredibly powerful in there."

"I can" he replied "and we have no chance of facing it with just me" chuckling Ash knew he was right. "Come on then, we need to get Cleffa to the Pokémon centre." An hour later Ash walked into Cerulean City and marvelled at it. Heading to the Pokémon centre he told Nurse Joy that he had been traveling through Mt Moon and found this Cleffa injured and caught it to save its life. The nurse told him it should be fine by the morning so after a warm shower Ash and Pikachu climbed into bed and were out like lights.

Unknown to either of them the presence Ash had felt earlier had also registered him. Opening its eyes, the being searched for Ash. Finding a blank spot it was confused. How was this person able to shield himself from him? Searching his Pokémon's mind he found out that the trainer was named Ash and he had just killed several Team Rocket members inside Mt Moon. "Good" the being thought looking over to his own companion "I think it's time my plans were set up, don't you?" and with that they both disappeared in a flash of purple. Meanwhile Ash slept on obliviously.

Chapter 5: Chapter 5- Cerulean City

Chapter Text

Cerulean- What a joke

Ash woke up the next morning and him and Pikachu carried on with their normal routine. Several days had been missed due to the activities inside Mt Moon but now they redoubled their efforts. Pikachu's repeated practice of focusing his power into his fists and punching rocks had paid off, he now knew Rock Smash and was part way there with Brick Break. Ash decided that the next move he would learn would be a combination of Thunderbolt and Rock Smash. Pikachu was ridiculously strong for his species which made Ash wonder whether he had a legendary as an ancestor. No normal Pikachu could ramp up their electricity to the point it changed colour like his Pikachu did so learning combo moves seemed like a good idea to Ash, anything outside the box could only be good when facing other trainers. Thunder Smash seemed a bit of a banal name for what he came up with but as it did the job Ash shrugged it off.

Ash rang his mum to let her know what had gone on inside Mt Moon. Delia had made him promise after the incident at Viridian City that anytime he encountered Team Rocket he would ring her and they would talk through whatever happened. Delia was incredibly concerned for Ash hearing just what he had done. He was a murderer now, less than two months after starting his journey but she also knew his task for Arceus came before anything she could be concerned about. So, to that end Delia agreed to keep the scolding to a minimum. It wasn't the loss of the lives of Team Rocket that had her worried, anytime they were brought up just reminded her of Red and what they did to her family. No, her main issue was that it was that her baby actively seeking them out.

Ash didn't tell her about Cleffa just yet. He wanted the little one to be healthy before he sent her to his mum. He knew she would love her, but Ash needed to make sure that Cleffa wanted the same thing. He didn't want to be trapped by anyone and had no desire to do that to anyone else. So, walking down to see Nurse Joy, he asked her how she was doing.

"She has had a lot of trauma Ash" Joy said looking worried "a lot of trauma, she's very skittish at the minute and doesn't react very well to loud noises. She was full of holes, like needles that were roughly put in and then pulled out. You rescued her just in time. She certainly won't be sanctioned to battle for at least a month while her body recovers from her ordeal. You say you have no idea what happened to her?"

"No, sadly I don't" Ash said shaking his head "I caught her at the exit of Mt Moon. I thought she had been attacked and escaped but I didn't know what by. And I knew she needed urgent medical attention which is why I captured her. I had plans to release her once she was healed but I feel like resting in a safe environment would be better for her so I plan to explain to her that I'm sending her to my mother who will spoil her, and if she wants to leave when she's better my mother will take her back to Mt Moon."

"That's wonderful Ash" Joy said "I shall take you to her now" getting up she led Ash into the back area where a Cleffa was sat on a table looking around, clearly in some distress. Walking in and seeing Ash she jumped off the table and ran to the corner.

"Easy there Cleffa" Ash said "Nurse can I have a minute with her please?" nodding Joy left and closed the door. Sitting down cross-legged Ash started talking "Hello little one, my name is Ash and I'm the one who rescued you. The Nurse who healed you doesn't know what happened and I plan to keep it that way. I'm truly sorry about capturing you, I didn't want to, but you would have died had I not brought you here and I couldn't have that on my conscience. Nurse Joy told me that you will take at least another month to recover from your injuries. So, with that in mind I've come to make you an offer. First, I have no desire to have you as my Pokémon, it is nothing personal, I had already planned what my full team would be long before I caught you. My mother however is likely feeling lonely since I left as there is no one else in our home.

So, what I'm proposing is this. I will send you to her so that you can heal up and not be worried about wild Pokémon attacking you while you heal and in return you can provide company for her. Once you are fully better, should you wish it she will take you back to Mt Moon and release you. I will say this, you won't be the only Pokémon I send her so bear that in mind should you wish to stay with her. I will give you a few hours to think this through and to come up with any questions you may have. Oh, the men who did this to you are all dead so they will not be doing that to any other Pokémon ever again."

Standing up Ash left and told Nurse Joy what he had said. Making their way to the local delivery shop Ash packaged the laptop up and sent it to Lance with a note.

Lance, I took this off a Team Rocket admin. I thought it may interest you. A.S.K

Knowing the initials may give him away didn't make Ash feel as concerned as he could be as he knew that in the next few months he would be working with Lance and the full story would come out then when they revives the fossil. Watching the carrier Pidgeot fly away Ash relaxed a little. Deciding to go shopping Ash knew that he'd have to restock after Mt Moon as his supplies had gotten dangerously short in that few days inside the mountain. Shopping proved to be more difficult than he imagined though as when he got there, he found that it had been cordoned off. Apparently, thieves had broken in last night and stole equipment from the store. Why anyone would steal a vacuum and leave everything else baffled Ash.

Walking into the Gym Ash spoke to the receptionist and found out that for the next few days the Sensational Sisters wouldn't be taking any gym challenges.

"What do you mean?" Ash asked incredulously "it's their job! They're not allowed to deny any challenger without good reason!"

"And they have one" the receptionist snottily replied, "they have their shows to perform which takes precedence over a silly gym challenge. The next open slot is for Thursday afternoon. Shall I pencil you in?"

"Oh really" Ash said "a 'silly gym challenge' is it. Thursday it is then" Turning round he went to leave but before he did, he said "I wonder what the league will make of this when they find out that the gym leader is declining challenges, despite being funded directly for that. Food for thought isn't it" shaking his head he left.

The next few days passed by in a whirlwind of activity for Ash. Cleffa had decided that she would take Ash up on his offer so he rang his mum to inform her what had happened and if she could help him. Delia was delighted, she admitted that she was a bit lonely in a home with just herself and would happily help Cleffa recover. The transfer process was fairly simple. Ash called Sam, gave him the same explanation he gave Nurse Joy and told him that Cleffa would now be owned by his mum and to clear her from his records. Sam was happy to do this and within five minutes his mum now had a Pokémon. Promising Ash weekly updates on her well being Ash left her to it and he had a little wager with himself that after a month of being with his mother Cleffa wouldn't want to leave.

Training was progressing really well. The three days he had to wait before his battle with Cerulean Gym was beneficial to Ash as he had found a little area up on the cape where people were happy to battle him. As they were just practice battles Ash didn't care about losing, just how they lost and how they progressed. Coming across many hikers Ash and Pikachu were able to practice Pikachu's new moves and mastered Rock Smash and Brick Break. Thunder Smash wasn't progressing as well as he'd hoped though.

"It's baffling" Ash said "how you can't seem to get this one Pikachu when you mastered the base moves"

"That's because you're trying to fuse two moves that oppose each other" a voice said behind him. Turning around he saw it was a massive mountain of a man who looked vaguely familiar. Sitting down beside them both on a bench overlooking the water he continued "I've been watching you both for the last hour try and fail at combining these moves. I believe it's because you're forgetting something vital. Rock naturally resists any form of conduction. There's a reason that type matchups usually work in favour of the one with a better one and trying to infuse rock with electricity will not work. I've only ever seen a legendary electric Pokémon that's able to affect a rock type like Onix or Graveler with its electricity. Your Pikachu, while strong just doesn't have the voltage capacity to do soo, at least not just yet anyway. You need to increase Pikachu's electric output before you can attempt to master this move. Maybe think about evolving him."

"Pikachu doesn't want to evolve" Ash said interrupting him "and I will never force a Pokémon to do so just to be able to use a move. There must be another way."

"Well, there may be one thing" the man said "there's an incredibly rare item that is used to power up electric types. It's said to only be located where strong electric types gather. It's called a Light Ball and they only appear in select locations and only then under very unusual circumstances. They're essentially a faulty Thunderstone that's infused with electricity to the point it overloads the evolution element inside. If you find one, it is said to increase your Pokémon's electrical output by 50%."

"Do you know where I can find one?" Ash asked interested.

"Well Saffron or Celadon department store might have them. Or you could order one" the man said "I'll warn you though because of how rare they are they're not cheap. Alternatively, there's a Power Plant just east of Rock Tunnel. It's rumoured that a powerful Electric Pokémon lives there but no one has ever seen it and it's full of electric type Pokémon so that may be a cheaper option, there's no guarantee you'll find one though."

"Well I wont be getting to either of those cities for months yet" Ash said musingly "and Rock Tunnel is on the way to Lavender Town so I'll be going that way anyway. A little side trip to the Power Plant sounds fun. What do you say Pikachu?"

"Should be fun Ash" Pikachu said "being unable to learn a move is frustrating. Can we learn something else in the meantime."

"That sounds like a good idea. We already know you'll have the advantage in the next gym but then we showed the last gym that type advantage counts for nothing against strategy so maybe we shouldn't be so cocky just yet" Ash said nodding.

"Do you mean to tell me you beat Brock with that Pikachu?" the man asked wonderingly.

"Well, yes and no" Ash said grimacing. "We beat his Geodude and Rhyhorn fairly easily as he didn't expect Pikachu to know Iron Tail. And I'm certain we would have found a way to beat his Onix but Brock decided that I'd met his gym requirements by beating his first two with such a major disadvantage. So he agreed to give me a badge if I would face the weakest of his elites. We did, and we didn't get a move off before it beat us. His Golem used one move and smashed us. Admittedly Pikachu was tired from beating the other two but we both knew we were outclassed at that time and we vowed afterwards to learn moves to deal with Pikachu's type disadvantage and that one day rock types everywhere would fear the small electric mouse that could beat them."

"That's very admirable" the man said standing up "and a very worthy goal so I'd like to test something. I'd like to battle you, not a full battle though. I just want to see where your Pikachu is at developmentally".

Nodding and standing up Ash made his way across the field "let's go Pikachu" he shouted as the little yellow mouse jumped in front of Ash its cheeks sparking threateningly.

"I'm going to use my newest member" the man said "I caught her around a month ago after she got herself lodged in my other Pokémon's body while we were training. I don't expect you to win, just so you know. I have years of training behind me but I expect you to do your best. Let's go Sandslash" and with that a brown spiky armoured mouse appeared.

Pointing his Pokedex at the creature it bleeped to life "Sandslash, Pokedex Number 28, the Sand Mouse Pokémon and the evolved form of Sandshrew. This Pokémon is female. It is skilled at slashing enemies with its claws. If broken, they start to grow back in a day."

"So that's what its evolution looks like. It looks tough Pikachu. Let's start off with Quick Attack" at that Pikachu streaked forward, its training with the weights on had given him a massive speed boost once he took them off. He had found that in the few months Ash and he had become partners his speed had doubled already. Ash's methods, while strange had evidently paid off.

"Defence Curl" the man said, and the brown mouse curled up into a ball making Pikachu bounce off it.

"Iron Tail" Ash said and saw his friend swing his tail sending it flying backwards "Good Job Pikachu"

"Dig quickly Sandslash" the man said thoroughly enjoying this as it burrowed its way underground "what are you going to do now young man? Sandslash could appear anywhere."

"Use your feet and ears Pikachu" Ash said "you'll know when it's about to surface when the ground beneath you trembles" nodding Pikachu focused. His training with Aura had helped Pikachu develop a much better sense of hearing.

"Come on up Sandslash and use Slash" the man shouted.

Looking around Ash noticed a few pebbles start to shake on the ground "There Pikachu, 5 o clock. Use Iron Tail"

Quicker than anticipated the Sandslash came barrelling up from the ground sending Pikachu flying upwards. Using gravity as momentum though Pikachu swung around and smashed his tail into the Sandslash sending it sprawling to the ground where it staggered to its feet. "Now Pikachu quickly. Use Thunderbolt" immediately a bolt of electricity headed to the sand mouse.

"Take it Sandslash, charge through and use Slash" the man said thinking Ash had forgot his type charts. "You lose this time young man. What?!"

Sandslash felt something very few ground types had every experienced before as it went flying backwards. Conduction. It lit up like a Christmas tree and was knocked out.

"Well, I'll be" the man said as he recalled his beaten Pokémon "your Pikachu is something special young man"

"Thanks" Ash said picking Pikachu up and placing him on his shoulder "we've trained relentlessly since we became partners. We still need to work on his sensory issues it seems though. Dig should have never been allowed to connect so it looks like we've got another area to train. Those defence sessions we've been having have certainly paid off though, that Dig was strong" Nodding Pikachu agreed. It had been a good match and now he knew that his electricity was potent enough to affect ground types he was less worried about facing them.

"Indeed" the man said laughing shaking his head "it seems that I need to train too. Man, wait until I tell the others this. The rest of the group will never let me live this down. Imagine an electric type beating a ground type with an electric move. Your Pikachu will become a monster if he ever decides to evolve. If not, a light Ball will work wonders too. Well, I must be off. It was good meeting you young man".

"Ash" he said "my name is Ash Ketchum".

"Red's boy?" the man said wonderingly "that explains a lot. I expect you to go far in the league Ash. I shall be looking out for you." The man then left leaving Ash and Pikachu wondering just who he was, and more importantly how he knew his dad. Walking back to the centre he passed several trainers rushing off to where Ash had just been. Overhearing a conversation, he stopped

"Did you hear? Bruno is said to around here somewhere."

"Elite Four Bruno? Where? Oh man, I'd love to meet him."

"I don't know, I just overheard it in the café before. Apparently he's passing through Cerulean on his way to the mountains near Mt Moon."

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go find him."

Shaking his head Ash carried on walking "I'm glad I'm not really famous yet amongst trainers Pikachu. I know Sam told me that I'm famous amongst professors but thankfully I've only met one. I don't think I could cope with being hounded like the Elite Four do. It would have been cool to meet Bruno though eh?"

"It would. It's not every day you get to meet an Elite Four member" Pikachu said "we could have asked for tips on how to get stronger"

"That's true" Ash said nodding walking into the Pokémon centre "but that bloke gave us some good advice too. Once we're done with Cerulean we'll see about getting information about the Power Plant and you a Light Ball. Let's have a look at what moves you can learn Pikachu" he said as he powered up the computer. "it looks like you've got decent coverage so far for rock types. We need something for the neutral types. Grass and Fire Types resist your electricity so maybe something for them. We're pretty limited on what we can learn though buddy and I think we'll save Thunder for last after we develop your electricity more. Ooh these look promising. Double Team for evasion, Feint in case of Protect stallers and Light Screen for special coverage. Yeah, I think they'll be the next three moves for you to learn."

"Sounds good Ash" Pikachu said curling up on the bed "I know quite a few moves but more always helps."

"Yup" Ash said standing up "that's a good point actually. What moves do you know?" getting Dexter, he pointed it at Pikachu and it blared to life "This Pikachu knows the moves Thundershock, Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave, Iron Tail, Quick Attack, Rock Smash, Brick Break and Aura Sphere. It has the egg move Volt Tackle that has yet to be unlocked."

"What the hell?" Ash shouted standing up "how do you know Aura Sphere? Pikachu's can't learn Aura Sphere!"

"How the hell should I know" Pikachu said standing up too "I have been feeling weird though lately. Whenever I focus on something I can hear the world around me a lot better. When the Sandslash used Dig before I could hear it underground and I could feel it in the rocks around me. It was very distracting."

"I can only assume its because I've been infusing your body with Aura every day building up your defence. That's only a guess though. Try and form an Aura Sphere" Ash said.

"How?" Pikachu asked.

"I don't really know. I just focus on expelling my Aura outwards and then shape it into a ball or a spike. It's virtually impossible to describe to those who can't use aura. Try focusing that weird feeling you get sometimes and then focus your energy into your palm and try and shape it."

After half an hour of nothing Ash sat down sighing. "Dexter says you know it, so it's clearly there inside of you. We just have to find a way to unlock it and I refuse to get the Guardians involved before you say anything."

"I wasn't going to" Pikachu said defensively "I trust you Ash. I know we'll find a way of unlocking it."

"Come on, let's go eat. Tomorrow is the day we battle the leader. I want an annihilation job Pikachu. They've really irritated me" Ash said standing up and making his way to the canteen.

The next day Ash made his way to the Gym. When he got there the same snotty receptionist was there. "Come back, have you?"

"No" Ash said sarcastically "I'm a mirage. This is all in your head."

"Well go on through. The leaders are ready to beat you" she said smirking nastily.

"We'll see wont we" Ash said walking through the corridor and following the signs for the gym. Walking out of the doorway he stopped. It was a massive pool with platforms at various points. Across from him on the other side were three women. The only distinguishing features about them that separated them were their hair. One had pink hair, another blue and the last was blonde "Which one of you is the gym leader?" Ash asked.

"Like, we all are" the Blonde said as though it was obvious.

"Yeah, we take it in turns to battle" the Bluenette said.

"Yeah, we are the sensational Sisters. But like, we have already been in a few battles today, our Pokémon are far too valuable as stars in our show to get hurt so we like, can't be bothered battling you today so you'll have to come back tomorrow" the Pinkette said.

"Erm, no" Ash said furiously "I've already been denied a battle with you on Sunday by that bitchy receptionist you have, who told me to come back today. I have done just that. Now, I'll repeat, which one of you am I battling?"

"Like, none little boy" the blonde said laughing "now why don't you go on home to mummy."

"Alright" Ash said taking his pokegear out and ringing Sam "I'll just make this phone call and then I'll leave."

"Like we don't care" the Pinkette said.

As the call connected he placed it on speaker phone "Hi Ash what can I do for you?"

"Hi Professor Oak. I am at the Cerulean Gym now and there's a big issue. I was denied a battle with the leader three days ago by the receptionist because, and I quote 'their shows are more important than a silly battle' so I was told to come back today, which I did. Now they're denying me a battle because, and again I quote 'we like, cannot be bothered'. Can you let Blue and Lance know please that a sanctioned gym leader is refusing to do the job they're paid for?"

"That's very disappointing Ash" Sam said as the three ladies paled "I'll ring my son now and inform him we need the Cerulean Gym leaders replacing. This will mean that you'll have to come back another day though Ash when we get a replacement in, we are obliged by law to give them a week to pack up and move out of the building"

"That's fine professor" Ash said "I was planning on returning this way anyway. I'm going to head to Vermillion and then come back this way to have a look in the Power Plant on my way to Lavender. Can you let me know when there's someone here?"

"Will do Ash" Sam said hanging up.

Looking over at them he smirked "well, that's that. Sorry Pikachu, it doesn't look like you'll be battling here today" he said as he walked back down the corridor to the entrance. The sisters caught up to him there just outside the entrance doors. Behind them all the employees of the building also followed them out wanting to know what the shouting was all about.

"Like, what the hell? What have you done that for?" the blonde said.

"Yeah, like we would have battled you tomorrow." The Pinkette piped up.

"This is like our home" The Bluenette finished.

"No" Ash said smiling "this was your home until you decided to take the piss out of me. I warned your receptionist the other day about the league and what they would do if they found out that you weren't doing what you were paid to do. Evidently you either ignored it or she never told you. That's not on me. I feel absolutely no guilt about this."

"What's going on?" A voice asked from behind Ash "what are you doing here?" it asked accusingly.

"Misty!" Ash said cheerily as a crowd had gathered wondering what was going on "Are you here to see my gym battle? Sadly, I'm afraid you're too late. The gym leaders have just been evicted from this building by the league" gasps rang out through the crowd.

"What do you mean?" Misty asked. Turning to the leaders "what the hell have you three done this time?"

"Like, you can't speak to us like that runt" the Bluenette said.

"Shut up" Misty said silencing them "what did you do to get our family evicted from this building?"

"Well Misty" Ash said interrupting her tirade "I take it these three are your sisters?" receiving a nod he continued "Well it all started on Sunday when your receptionist told me that their shows are more important than the gym battles they are paid to do and that I will have to come back at their convenience to have a battle. When I arrived today the receptionist again was a bitch but I let that slide as I wanted to get the battle over with and leave. When I arrived at the battle ground your sisters refused having a battle because 'we like, can't be bothered'. A clear abuse of power as they knew I would need their badge. What they didn't know though is that Professor Oak is not only a good friend of mine but also my sponsor. His son is the League Champion, the man who oversees all the gyms in Kanto. Professor Oak was less than impressed. He has informed his son of what's happened and your sisters have a week to vacate the premises. That's about the end of it."

"You got my family evicted?" Misty said.

"No, your family got themselves evicted. It was quite clear that this wasn't the first time they've pulled this crap. I was just unfortunate enough to be the wrong person they pulled it with. Now I have to be going. See you all around someday" Ash said as he went to leave. Immediately his instincts kicked in again as he ducked an object and swept the legs of the person who attacked him shoving their face into the ground. "haven't we already been in this position before Red? With the exact same outcome"

"What's going on here?" a voice said as the crowd parted revealing Officer Jenny with a few of her colleagues.

"Hello Officer" Ash said cheerily "you've arrived just in time to make an arrest. This is the second time this lady has attacked me with that mallet over there. Last time I let her go with a warning. This time I'm not letting it slide."

"The bastard has got my family evicted" Misty said from the floor "I'll kill him."

"Ooooh a death threat in front of an officer?" Ash said "Seems like it's not only your sisters who need to learn to keep their mouths shut is it?"

Seeing no other alternative Jenny handcuffed Misty and had one of her officers collect her and take her away while she got the statement from Ash. Learning what happened to the sisters had Jenny shaking her head. Looking at them she said "I warned you three about this in the past. The League is a multi-million-dollar enterprise. And the gyms are their pride and joy. Did you really think you'd be able to do this forever?"

"You knew about this?" Ash said incredulously.

"Of course, I did" Jenny said "Who do you think reported them to the league in the first place? This is my city to run, and if I don't do my job then I can easily be replaced. I'm damn good at my job Mr Ketchum and I take an enormous amount of pride in what I do. And I gave them enough warnings to change their stance. They've had at least eighteen months now to save up money from their shows to move it to another building and still keep the gym operational. While they have my sympathies about being evicted they also have my pity that they didn't listen. I do not like feeling like I've been taken advantage of. Now, all of you, move on."

At that the crowd dispersed "You too Mr Ketchum. I will be in touch with Professor Oak about the next gym leader. Hopefully, we can make Cerulean Gym a place to be proud of. Here's my pokegear number. Call me if you need me." Turning to the still shocked sisters she said "I suggest you begin packing. Your mother and father would be deeply ashamed of you if they were still alive."

Walking back to the centre Ash picked up his things, sent his mum a quick email about what had happened and made his way out of the City. Walking along Route 5 Ash wondered just what would happen next. His entire journey so far had been unbelievably eventful. Shaking his head to clear his thoughts he happened upon a signpost that said "AJ's Gym" with a little dirt path behind it. Curious Ash walked down it only to find a trainer running the opposite way.

"Don't go that way. AJ will demolish you" as the trainer sped off. How very strange. Walking for another few minutes a building with a makeshift battlefield came into view and wondering just what was going on Ash wandered and had a look around. Walking around the corner he saw a massive area marked out with lines. It was clearly a battlefield and looking at the side of the battlefield he noticed a scoreboard that said 99 wins, 0 losses.

"Are you my 100th win?" a voice said from behind him. Turning around he saw it was a boy with green hair, a few years older than himself with a Sandshrew at his side. "Judging by the rat on your shoulders this should be easy."

"Carry on and I'll be your first loss" Ash said unconcerned "I take it you're AJ then?"

"My reputation precedes me I see" the boy said "yeah, I'm AJ. If you're not here to battle, then I suggest you clear off."

Laughing Ash shook his head "I was simply here to see what the fuss was about. Looking at you now, I'm still wondering the same thing"

Furiously AJ said "you wont be so cocky when I kick your arse. Let's go to the battlefield. This may be an unsanctioned match but I will very much enjoy beating you and your rat"

Taking out Dexter he asked "Dexter, how many battles have I been in so far?"

It bleeped to life and said "Trainer Ash Ketchum, 87 sanctioned battles, 0 losses. Unsanctioned battles 48, 47 wins 1 loss"

"That loss was against a gym leader who asked me to battle one of his Elites after I had already beat him. At that point I had only had Pikachu around 6-7 weeks and I beat him in a normal battle. So he sent out a Golem" Ash said smirking. "you've clearly been training for some time now given you have 99 wins. The fact you've not moved from here tells me that you're scared to do so."

"Enough talking" AJ said removing a whip from his belt. Cracking it he shouted "Sandshrew Defence Curl into Tackle."

"You know what to do Pikachu" Ash said. Leaping forward with a Quick Attack Pikachu waited until Sandshrew was close before twisting and striking it with an Iron Tail sending it flying into the wall. "Was that it?" Ash asked rhetorically "after all that bluster, your Pokémon is out in one hit?"

"Grrr Sandshrew get up" he said cracking the whip which was really starting to irritate Ash. Sandshrew stumbled to its feet looking over at AJ clearly worried about whatever the whip represented. Cracking it again he shouted "Dig Sandshrew" as it disappeared below ground.

"Same attack pattern as yesterday Pikachu" Ash said receiving a nod as Pikachu hunched down to the ground. Thirty seconds later Pikachu noticed the stones around him start to shake and prepared to take the hit. Launching Pikachu into the air Sandshrew's move hit making AJ cheer "game over."

"Not quite" Ash said stopping the cheering as Pikachu twisted in mid-air and send Sandshrew flying back into the ground with an Iron Tail where it impacted the ground with such force it made a crater. "Now that's game over" Ash said

"This is not over" AJ shouted cracking his whip repeatedly "Sandshrew you better get up or there will be no food for you" amazingly the beat up Sandshrew managed to haul itself onto its feet. Battered and bruised it signalled it wanted to fight again. Shaking his head in sympathy Ash said "light him up Pikachu. Put it out of its misery" as Pikachu sent a Thunderbolt at it knocking it out.

"How the hell did an electric attack work on a ground type? You cheating bastard! I knew you were cheating" AJ said as he charged forward flinging the whip at Ash. Using his aura strength Ash caught the whip with his left hand and pulled sending AJ flying towards him and with his right hand punched him in mid air knocking him out. Sighing Ash plucked the poke ball off AJ's belt and returned the knocked out Sandshrew. "Stay here Pikachu, if he wakes up knock him back out. I'm going to check out that building, something about that whip and his attitude sets me off."

Walking over to the building Ash opened the door and walked through the house. At the back he walked into a gym area where clearly exhausted Pokémon all around him frantically began to run around. "stop" Ash shouted causing the panic to halt "I am not AJ. I am here to see if I can help. Now I need one of you to tell me what's going on here" immediately chatter started until Ash put his hand up "One at a time". An Eevee walked out of its hiding place and stood in front of Ash. Pointing Dexter at it it bleeped "Eevee, Pokedex number 133, The Evolution Pokémon, Its genetic code is irregular. This Pokémon is female. It may mutate if it is exposed to radiation from elemental stones"

"Ok, talk" Ash said to the Eevee. Listening to its story he looked around and received many nods. Sighing he knew that he would have to get help with this. "Ok, I'm in over my head here. I'm going to have to call my sponsor and then possibly Officer Jenny to take you all to safety. Depending on what he says you may all be freed so you have until I get off the phone to decide what you want to do"

Walking over to the door Ash rang Sam and told him what had happened. Unfortunately, as AJ didn't have a Pokédex, he was unable to ban him. He could however put a sanction on him from ever competing in a league due to Pokémon abuse.

"Sadly Ash, you're the only one who can talk to Pokémon" Sam said "And while you may know the truth there is no way of knowing if you're telling the truth. It's your word against his. It's a shame. AJ could also still obtain a Pokémon illegally. Take pictures and call Jenny. I think it's best to let the law handle this one."

Nodding Ash called Jenny up "you again Ketchum" Jenny said "what problem is there now?". She soon sobered up when she heard what happened "let me track your GPS and I'll be there as soon as possible" hanging up Ash went back to the Pokémon and asked them to follow him. Walking over to Pikachu he noticed a lump forming on AJ's head "He moved" Pikachu said. Shrugging his shoulders, he called out Sandshrew who still looked battered. Explaining what was said they all agreed to want to be freed. Recalling the rest into their Pokéballs Eevee began twittering away talking very fast as she dodged the beam. Stopping she asked Ash the question that she was clearly leading up to.

"No, I'm sorry Eevee but I already have my team picked out" Ash said apologetically. Walking away Eevee sadly curled up on the ground. Seeing this Ash sighed "let me make a call." Taking out his Pokégear he rang his mum.

"Hi Mum" Ash began "we have a situation here". Explaining what had happened his mum immediately clocked onto what Ash was thinking and agreed.

Walking over to Eevee he said "I have a solution but you need to decide before Jenny gets here. As I said I don't want an Eevee as my team has already been picked. My mother however would love for you to become part of her growing family. A few days ago, she adopted a Cleffa from me who I saved from an evil team in Mt Moon who did experiments on her. Once Cleffa is healed though my mum will be taking her back to where she grew up to release her so she will be alone again. I'm proposing that I capture you with the understanding that at the next Pokémon centre I transfer you to my mother. We need to move quickly here though as if Jenny gets here and you're still owned by AJ then I can't do anything and you will be released with the rest of his Pokémon. So, what do you say?"

Immediately Eevee tackled Ash and shouted "Yes!"

Making Eevees Pokéball large Ash pressed the button until it turned blue. Pointing it at Eevee, it lit her up for a good ten seconds. Finally, the light stopped, and the ball cracked open at the hinges. Shoving it into his pocket he took out his own Pokéball and threw it at Eevee capturing her. Deciding to scan her later he waited for Jenny to get there and minutes later she arrived in her van. Loading the still unconscious AJ onto the van she took the bag of Pokéballs off him and received his statement. Thanking Ash, she hopped back up into her van and sped off. Making sure she had actually gone Ash called Eevee back out.

"All safe Eevee. Now I'm not going to sugar-coat this. I will be training you until we reach Vermillion. I don't want to leave my mother with a Pokémon that can't defend her so until then I'll do my best to teach you as many new moves as I can. We have around three weeks to cram as much as we can in. Pikachu and I will be training right alongside you and we will fill you in on our journey so far but be warned, it's not all been happiness and rainbows. Let's see what moves you have so far."

Pointing Dexter at her it bleeped to life "This Eevee has a Naughty Nature and knows the moves Tackle, Sand Attack, Bite, Growl and Dig"

"Ok, a good solid base and we can work with that. You have a lot of similarities with Pikachu. Your nature is really good as well and by the time we give you back to my mother we will have learned a few more moves and strengthened your body. As I said it won't be easy, but I will never withhold food as a punishment. We don't punish in this family. We admit we were lacking, understand why and then move on being mindful of the lessons learned. Above all though we have fun doing it. Now, lets go. We have a badge to collect. Oh, and Eevee, welcome to the family"

Eevee cried in thanks and relief. Ash let her finish before placing her on his left shoulder. The right shoulder was Pikachu's spot, and always would be.

Chapter 6: Chapter 6- Building A Family

Chapter Text

Chapter 6- Building a Family

"So, Eevee, to start off were going to attach weights to your legs to improve your speed when we take them off. For the next two weeks we'll be attaching these every day while you walk. You likely won't feel the benefit for a while but believe me it works. Pikachu has done this ever since I caught him, he'll say he caught me but in the time that I've had him his speed has more than doubled, so much so that when he combined a Quick Attack and an Iron Tail it has knocked out many Pokémon we have battled in one hit. We'll be teaching you Quick Attack and Iron Tail, as Pikachu knows them and can describe them easier to you than I can.

Now, for food. Every week I change a certain item in Pikachu's diet and then train him using the benefits of them. We call the supplements or vitamins and I sprinkle them on top of his food every time he eats. They're basically stat enhancers but they only work if you train using those moves that compliment them. There are six. The last week we've been using Iron and Zinc to help Pikachu's defences. For you though we'll be using Protein and Carbos to help your attack and speed. The last two are Calcium for Special Attack and HP UP to improve your vitality and health.

Every morning Pikachu and I go for a run to wake ourselves up before we start to train. You'll see Pikachu and I spar from time to time and in the next few weeks so will we. Don't be afraid of hurting me, I can take it. If I need to keep you longer than the two weeks to make sure you learn the moves I will do but it will be a month max. I need you with my mother before Cleffa returns to Mt Moon. I know it's a lot to take in at the minute, but we have plenty of time to get through it all."

The next week of travelling was very gruelling for the little Eevee. She tried her best every day to improve but couldn't see that she was getting better and she was starting to get a little downhearted as Ash never commented on her progress. He was still only using Pikachu in battles with other trainers while she watched. Pikachu and Ash had seen this but didn't say anything as they were waiting for Eevee to let them know. She needed to know to learn when to speak up for herself and it was on the fifth day of travelling with Ash that she finally asked why he didn't let her battle or comment on how she's doing.

"Because Eevee you have not asked. You've made amazing progress, you really have. Your speed has improved enormously, and your moves have certainly gotten stronger and it's looking like you'll master Quick Attack in the next few days so after that we'll move on to Iron Tail. Hopefully you'll have that down by next weekend. Pikachu and I have been waiting for you to ask you know? When you're a part of my team you need to speak up if you want something. You've seen Pikachu just tell me what he's going to do and then do it. I have no issues with this as long as it works. It'll get to the point where he won't even need my commands in battles, he'll be so used to battling scenarios that he'll be working on muscle memory but even he knows that if a move fails then we try my way. You won't be in my team as long so I'm trying to improve you as much as I can before you leave. You've done well so far Eevee. I'm very proud of your dedication so far. Keep it up." The next few days saw a newfound determination in the little Eevee as she perfected her Quick Attack and mastered the basics for Iron Tail.

Hall Of Origin

Arceus had called for a meeting. Waiting in her room she wondered how this one was going to go. The last one was a few years ago now and it ended up with her putting Darkrai in his place because his son had been caught by a trainer and he wanted to go and get revenge. He had ranted and raved for a good five minutes before she had enough and roared at him. It was enough to silence the entire room who had been muttering amongst themselves.

"Enough Darkrai. I warned you a few years ago that this would happen. It was your son's choice to go along with this trainer and I support it. We will be keeping a close watch on him to see how he's being treated but other than that I will not interfere with his decision" looking around she continued "every single one of you has this choice. I will not stop you, but I will remind you that you have a responsibility to the world around you that supersedes any commands given to you by a trainer. The only person that is on par with us will be my Chosen One, but even he answers to me."

Despite the various mutterings at her announcement the rest of the meeting went fairly well. There were rumblings in Hoenn and Sinnoh of teams in search of artifacts pertaining to Groudon, Kyogre and the Creation Trio but warnings were not enough anymore though. She knew one of the Orbs had been discovered in an expedition in Mt Coronet. Shaking herself out of her musings she saw that everyone had gathered. Giving Darkrai a long look before starting, her eyes warning him not to start anything. She had asked Giratina to stand at his side just in case. Hearing him mumble about "not needing a babysitter" she ignored him.

"Welcome my children. I have called this meeting because I have news. Both good and bad. I shall start with the bad. Dialga, your Adamant Orb has been discovered in Mt Coronet by an archaeology expedition. It has been taken to the Veilstone museum to be researched by the human scientists working there. At the moment I don't think they know what it is, but there have been rumblings of a team searching for yours, Palkia's and Giratina's Orbs. And while they need all three to summon any one of you it is very troubling."

"What can we do?" Dialga asked worried.

"What we should have done for centuries" Groudon roared "and what I've been saying in all that time. We should be proactive and get our Orbs back by any means necessary!"

"That is not possible Groudon" Arceus said back "and you know why and I will not carry on with that particular conversation. Until I gain my missing plates back, I cannot let anyone interfere with the human world. You are all in too much danger should anything happen to you. To answer your question Dialga, until the Adamant, Lustrous and Griseous Orbs have been found we can do nothing. That is not to say we cannot plan for it though."

"So why don't you go and get the plates back oh powerful one?" Darkrai asked sneering.

"Enough with the disrespect" a voice said from the back. Parting the other legends watched as Xerneas came forward and stared down Darkrai who quickly backed away "I have about had enough of your disrespect of our Lady Arceus. Mother has told us all time and time again why she cannot interfere in the human world, if you need your ears fixing just give me the go-ahead. You may be protected by our lady up here and the fact we're mere projections of our true selves, but once we leave here you will be fair game. Say something disrespectful one more time Darkrai and I will happily hunt you and end you. I'm sure we can easily elevate your youngest child to walk in these halls in your stead."

"Easy Xerneas" Arceus said walking forward and standing facing Darkrai "I thank you for your defence of me. It was not necessary, but I thank you all the same. As for you Darkrai, Xerneas is correct. Given your regrettable attitude I have been considering replacing you. I have NEVER had to replace a legendary Pokémon voluntarily before since I created all of you and I would hate for you to be the first. Now, to answer Dialga's question, plans are already in place for help. This is the good news I had planned to tell all of you. I told you all six years ago about my Chosen One, he has recently started his path towards being my voice on Earth and is progressing very nicely."

"Can we see him?" Mew asked anxiously "his first test is not long away now, is it? I do hope he can save my sister."

"I had planned on showing you him, yes" Arceus said turning around and roaring at the sky above her. The Spear Pillar was a fascinating construct in its design. Columns aligned the entrance hall and effigies of every legendary were lined up in alcoves representing their chosen avatar. The ceiling however was the thing that would fascinate everyone the most should they be able to visit. It was a carpet of stars and planets, aligned to represent the forever expanding universe in its entirety. Arceus' roar caused their current galaxy to zoom into view. Soon Earth was visible, then Kanto and then Ash himself chatting to Pikachu and Eevee.

"This is Ash Ketchum my chosen one. For the past six years he has been training relentlessly in his use of Aura. Mew and I may have stacked the deck a little in his favour and bestowed other benefits, but we felt it was necessary given his task. Here, I will show you some of his past up until now."

Arceus roared again and Ash's past six years flew by. The assembled legendaries looked on with great interest. His first few weeks as a trainer interested them greatly.

"He killed all those Spearow" Mew said sadly.

"After they had attacked him" Ho-oH said seriously before she could continue "their arrogance was their undoing. Wild Pokémon are taught from birth what it means to keep the balance with humans. Those Spearow have clearly forgot those lessons and rightfully paid for it. I was there Mew, I saw it. If Ash didn't do it, then I would have done. It was acts like that that could spell disaster for the Pokémon in the surrounding areas who would have been made an example of by the humans and killed in retaliation. As it was those Spearow paid for their crimes and the forest Pokémon have since flourished. The Spearow had taken over that forest to the detriment of the others and had been attacking human and Pokémon alike without just cause."

Silence reigned after that after all who would dare argue with Ho-oH's assessment. She was the Pokémon who restored Pokémon to life. If SHE felt the deaths were necessary, then there was no recourse. Carrying on watching they saw how he dealt with the Team Rocket members and then the Guardian in Viridian.

"When we're done here, I will make my way to Viridian" Celebi said "I will speak to my sisters about it but while Pidgeot has done a fantastic job the forest needs a true protector again."

Watching Ash deal with the news of the fossil made a few shiver as they remembered how vicious Aerodactyl could be. Watching his actions in Mt Moon cemented Arceus plan in many eyes. He was a true protector and a worthy Chosen One and seeing him battle Bruno was an eye opener for Groudon. Turning to Arceus with a noticeable twitch in his eye he asked, "You gave him a Pikachu that can affect ground types?"

"Oh, Dear Groudon" Kyogre cackled "you may have to watch yourself."

"If it can affect me Kyogre just what do you believe Pikachu will be able to do to you" Groudon retorted shutting her up.

Laughing Arceus nodded. Finishing up where Ash was, they all chatted for a few minutes amongst themselves. Finally, Kyogre piped up "He seems like a worthy candidate. But after centuries of dealing with the arrogance of humans I will reserve judgement until I see him myself."

"That is acceptable" Arceus said "I hope you all feel the same way, and I hope that when you meet him you keep your mind open to him. By the way Darkrai, to answer your question I cannot get my plates back by myself, I have foreseen however that Ash will be the one to recover them for me. That is years from now though." Addressing the rest, she said "I am happy with his progress and I plan on sending him more worthy partners to aid us but he seems determined to stick to six though so I will try and make sure they're capable which is all I can do for now. That is all my children. I shall summon you again in less than a years' time. Hopefully Ash can meet the coming challenge and prevail. If he doesn't, then we shall have to make new plans and hope we survive the fallout."

Watching them leave Arceus didn't let on how worried she was. All of her plans revolved around Ash surviving the upcoming event as she knew that the newest human creation was in a lot of pain. And pain coupled with anger was never a good combination. Sighing she returned looking down at Ash and wished him luck.

Partners

It was eight days after receiving Eevee that Ash happened upon a worrying scene. A group of boys were surrounding another boy while he was on a treadmill. They seemed to be asking him questions and when he gave the wrong answer, they increased the speed. The issue Ash had was that the questions were very subjective.

"What level does Pidgeotto evolve?"

"What level does Caterpie evolve?"

"What level does Pidgey learn Sand Attack?"

He wasn't surprised the kid got them wrong as it all depended on the Pokémon itself. Ash had even written a paper on these years ago about how Pokémon learned moves. There's no such thing as a 'level' like people believed, there was just experience and training. Shaking his head, he was about to walk on when he heard them say something that made him pause. "You're a disgrace to Pokémon Tech Joe. Professor Ketchum would be so ashamed." Professor Ketchum? Was there another Ketchum at Pokétech? He had of course heard about the place but had no time for it. Imagine having to sit a paper exam and then be told you're good enough to battle in the Pokémon League without having a single battle outside the building. Rich kids with parental delusions was the phrase Ash always used whenever Professor Oak brought it up. Sam agreed on the whole, you can't learn life lessons in a controlled, safe environment. Seeing the group walk away leaving the kid alone Ash walked up to him and asked what was going on?

"Oh, it's nothing" The kid said as he began to walk back towards the school, "They do this all the time, they just want me to be the best."

"Well, it certainly didn't look that way kid" Ash said shaking his head "that looked a lot like bullying to me."

"They're just trying to make sure I'm worthy to work alongside Giselle and not ruin the reputation of Poketech" Joe said.

"Poketechs reputation isn't great to start with Joe" Ash said shaking his head.

"How can you say that?" Joe said offended "The Pokémon Technology School is a fabulous place to learn how to be a trainer! I have already got two badges."

"Which mean jack shit in the real-world Kid" Ash said interrupting "name a single Poketech trainer in history that has gone on to become a league champion"

"I'll prove it" Joe said, "Battle me right now."

"I don't need to kid; I already know I can beat you" Ash said looking up at the building's façade shaking his head.

"Grrr, you just don't want to admit you're scared" Joe said calling out a Weepingbell "Battle me."

Pointing Dexter at it it bleeped "Weepingbell, Pokedex Number 70, The Flycatcher Pokémon, and the evolved form of Bellsprout. This Pokémon is male. It spits out poisonous powder to immobilize the enemy and then finishes it with a spray of acid."

Sighing Ash told him to take him to one of the battle fields. "Alright Eevee, this will be your first battle. Let's go" Ash said taking off her leg weights "Do your best."

Seeing a crowd form Joe became slightly nervous but upon hearing Ash's words he gained in confidence. "you're using a Pokémon you've never battled with before?" he asked incredulously "this will be easy. Ok Weepingbell lets start off with a Stun Spore."

"Dig" Ash said making Joe growl at his Pokémon's move missed.

"You can't hide forever" Joe said, "when it comes out use Razor Leaf."

"Come on up Eevee" Ash called out. Quicker than Joe could react Weepingbell was sent flying into the air with Eevee following it "Iron Tail". Twisting in mid air Eevees tail glinted and smacked Weepingbell into the ground where it lay unmoving. "Two moves? Is that it? I'm sorry Eevee, we'll find you a better opponent soon" Nodding sadly Eevee jumped back on Ash's shoulder "You did really well though if that helps. It shows how much a week of proper training can do for a Pokémon."

"You've only had the Eevee for a week?" a voice said making Ash turn around to see a man walking towards him. He was fairly tall, very thin with a sunken sallow face and had greying black hair.

"Yeah, I caught her eight days ago" Ash said "She's done really well so far but there is always room for improvement. Sadly, though it looks as though this place has nothing to offer us in terms of development if that's what having two badges produces in results."

"Hey now that's not fair" a snobbish voice said walking up to him. She was stunning but Ash immediately was repulsed by her snobby attitude "Joe isn't even the best we have at Beginner level."

"I really don't care" Ash said looking at her entourage "oh look it's you three again. Taking a break from bullying other students, are we?"

"We have no idea what you're talking about" one of the boys said defiantly

"Oh, so it wasn't you three making Joe answer ridiculous questions before?" Ash said cutting them off "What level does Pidgeotto evolve, what level does Caterpie evolve, what level does Pidgey learn Sand Attack? These ringing any bells?"

"Well, any trainer should know that Pidgeotto evolves at level 36, Caterpie at 7 and Pidgey learns Sand Attack at level 5" one of the boys said defiantly

"All factually wrong" Ash said cutting them off shocking them all. "I have no idea who you've learned that rubbish from, but I suggest you ask for your money back from this place if that's what you're being taught."

"How dare you!" the man said clearly affronted "we offer only the best education here at Pokétech. By the time our trainers leave here they compete in leagues!"

"And when has a single trainer from Poketech won a league after leaving here?" Ash said interrupting his tirade. Looking around he asked, "can anyone answer me that? Can anyone tell me a single trainer who's placed highly in any league? No, I didn't think so. The fact is the trainers that leave here have no knowledge of real-life situations, they believe that type advantage in battles will always determine the winner and they put absolutely no effort into bonding with their partners. There is a reason I turned down this place. Come on Pikachu, this place is exactly what I thought it would be."

"Well Professor Ketchum clearly disagrees with you, otherwise he wouldn't endorse this place" the girl said making Ash stop walking.

"You know, that's the second time I've heard that name today. Who is this Professor Ketchum?" Ash asked.

"I'm not surprised you wouldn't know who he was" the man said sneering "he's a man whose talent in understanding Pokémon has no rival. For years now we've used his papers in our exams and it's to his specifications we tailor our exams. It's only recently though we've learned his real name."

"Yeah, Ash Ketchum thinks this place is good enough and that's good enough for us" the girl said defiantly.

Immediately Ash burst out laughing. "Since when did I endorse this place?" he said between bursts of laughter "I have never heard such rubbish in all my life."

"What do you mean 'you' endorse this place?" the man asked confused.

Finally controlling his laughter, he took out his Pokedex, pressed a few buttons and it burst into life "My name is Dexter and I am the identification for Junior Professor Ash Ketchum, trainer number AK191298. If lost or stolen I cannot be replaced" silence reigned as the people processed what they heard. This trainer was the person they had been learning from for years? And he was only eleven years old!

"You're wrong" the girl said suddenly "and you're lying. Fight me and I'll prove it. My name is Giselle and I'm the best in this place."

Sighing Ash shook his head "fine, but don't be surprised when you lose. And when you do I want you to admit that this place sucks."

"Well when I win, I want you to acknowledge that this place is the best" Giselle said.

Walking back to his side of the battlefield Ash got ready "let's go Pikachu" as Pikachu jumped onto the battlefield.

"Let's go Graveler" Giselle said as a fairly big boulder appeared. Pointing his Pokedex at it it bleeped "Graveler, Pokedex Number 75, the Rock Pokémon, and the evolved form of Geodude. This Pokémon is female. It rolls down slopes to move. It rolls over any obstacle without slowing or changing its direction."

"I want to test something Pikachu. Use Thunderbolt" Pikachu immediately reacted.

"I knew you were all talk. Rock types cant be electrocuted. Graveler, take it and then use Rock Throw. What the hell?!" Giselle said as Graveler lit up like a Christmas tree and was blasted back. Struggling to get to its feet it looked up only to see a metal tail smack it into the face and fainted. Silence reigned as Pikachu made its way back to Ash and its shoulder.

"Again, two hits. I think we need to have more of a challenge soon Pikachu because this is getting ridiculous now" Ash said shaking his head looking at the clearly shocked girl. "You know what Giselle, keep training here. You'll be absolutely no threat to me when you enter the league."

Walking away he left with a parting shot to the professor "I will be speaking with my sponsor Professor Oak about this. At no point have I ever endorsed this place, nor will I ever do so."

The next day Ash came to a bridge across a small valley. Looking at it he knew immediately that something was wrong "this is clearly a trap Pikachu. My eyesight isn't amazing but even I can see the ropes are hanging on by a thread. Someone or something obviously doesn't want us to cross here." Looking around he noticed half a mile downstream the valley dipped down and became just a river. "we'll just walk around it" doing so only took an extra four hours but Ash had no desire to go tumbling down onto rocks so felt it was worth it. Making his way along the narrow bridge he arrived at the other side of the bridge and carried on down the path. Ash could see that he was delving into a bit of a what looked like a forest, so they stopped to eat before venturing on forwards. "Be wary Pikachu, you too Eevee. These woods don't feel very welcome" and so he continued on, occasionally sidestepping traps on the floor, traps on the trees and the occasional wild Pokémon attack them.

Hours later the trees started thinning when he rolled out of the way of what was clearly a Pokémon attack. "Thunderbolt Pikachu, ten o'clock!" hearing a pained cry he was again attacked from behind by a Stun Spore. Rolling out of the way Ash launched an Aura Sphere in its general direction hitting a tree "Come out!" Ash shouted "Now, or I carry on attacking" silence reigned for several minutes. Expanding his Aura Ash was surprised to receive nothing. "Come on guys. Whatever was here isn't here anymore." Putting a scarf around his mouth in case of other status attacks they carried on. Ash continued to use his Aura as a kind of sonar and every now and then he would get a blip but whatever they were following was always just out of range and whatever it was clearly knew its way around these woods. Ash had long since left the path, but he knew that if he just kept walking forward he would eventually get out.

"This place looks vaguely familiar Pikachu" Ash said sitting on a boulder. I think we've been led in circles guys" Ash said sitting down. "Let's rest for a bit while I see where we are" taking out his Pokégear Ash brought up the map section and discovered that he was right. They were back to where they started when they were first attacked. "Well guys the path is about twenty yards over there so we're back there. Whatever we followed has led us back to here, we've wasted around four hours trying to find it, so I suggest we rest here for the night and carry on using the path tomorrow. We're going to have to take turns keeping watch as whatever we followed didn't mind attacking us in the slightest."

Setting up camp they chatted about various things, Ash brought Eevee up to speed on what Arceus had tasked him with "it is important you understand this, Eevee. There's another reason I will be sending you to my mother Pokémon. One, she is likely aware of this but will also probably never mention. Arceus has given me a great task. I have set my sights on defeating Team Rocket and any other evil group that is out there, including any and all abusive trainers. That means once I reveal myself my family will become a target. The Pokémon I am sending to her will be there to defend her. It's why I am sometimes harsh with training as you need to learn things quickly because you won't be with me long enough. I'll be sending mum a training schedule for you to keep up with, so I expect you to keep it up. It will be nothing like the schedule my six will be doing, but it will keep your skills sharp. Family is everything to me Eevee. You are a part of that family now and with my father gone there is only you, Pikachu, Mum and I left. And I will do everything I can to protect that, at any cost. I expect my family members to do the same. We have already killed to do so and will likely do so again in the future. I suggest you both get some sleep and Eevee, think over what I just said."

Unbeknownst to them Ash had gotten lax during his talk, and someone heard every word he said. Walking back into the forest as quietly as he could he contemplated the trainers' words. Arceus herself had given the trainer a task? And he was training a team to do the task. Not only that but he was training other Pokémon to defend his family. Thinking of his own family made his respect for the trainer go up as he too would defend them with his life but this trainers' words kept coming back to him. Family is everything. The people he was staying with wasn't his true family. It had been a long time since he was adopted and he was very grateful, but he had felt his abilities were destined for something greater. Was this trainer the one to be able to help him achieve that greatness? Reaching his home, he walked in.

"Hello Bulbasaur" his adopted parent said, "How are you faring?" Shaking his head, she looked at him sadly "I think its time we had a chat, don't you?"

The next morning Ash was woken up by Pikachu pointing to the forest. Sending out an Aura wave he felt the presence from last night. It was just beyond the trees and was clearly watching them. Silently the group packed up and walked towards the presence. It turned around and kept up a stead pace. Following it Ash brought out his Pokégear to make sure they went going around in circles again and found they were going in a straight line. Puzzled they followed for another hour until the presence disappeared. Walking through the bushes Ash was very surprised to find it open up into a big clearing where a big pond sat next to a wooden house. Beside the pond were many Pokémon happily playing in the water. Immediately all activity stopped as Ash walked closer to the house and there sat on the doorstep was a Bulbasaur. It was the presence they had felt all day yesterday and again today.

"Hello Bulbasaur" Ash said looking at it curiously "you seem to have brought me here on purpose. Why?"

Instead of answering Bulbasaur raised a vine and knocked on the door before walking off to the pond. It opened in surprise and a young woman came out. She stopped in surprise at seeing another trainer and immediately her face changed from curiosity to understanding.

"You must be the Pokémon trainer Bulbasaur was telling me about last night." The woman said "My name is Melanie; this is my home. I apologise for his actions, but he takes his job of guardian of the woods very seriously. You see, all around you are Pokémon that were abandoned by their original trainers in this forest. I look after them until they're healed, and they move on."

"Well Melanie my name is Ash Ketchum. I'm a junior professor from Pallet Town on a journey to become a Pokémon master." Ash said kissing the back of her hand "I am pleased to meet you. What you do is admirable. I have a deep loathing for anyone that mistreats their Pokémon, especially abandoning them. These Pokémon all look very healthy though so why haven't they left?"

Sighing she walked to the ponds edge and sat down "unfortunately Bulbasaur is too good at his job. They don't want to leave because they know they're safe here due to his actions."

"Is that a problem?" Ash asked sitting beside her "if you need funds my sponsor Professor Oak and I can happily help you out to keep this place going. What you do here is amazing".

"No" she said shaking her head "funds aren't an issue, everything we have we get from the forest here. The issue is Bulbasaur. He needs to leave before the others do. Unfortunately, he doesn't really like trainers after his original partner left him here abandoned while injured. He came up against a Charmeleon in a battle and was beaten. His trainer didn't like being humiliated despite Bulbasaur being at a severe disadvantage and brought him into the forest where he abandoned him".

"Grrr" Ash said shaking his head angrily "I despise trainers like that. Rather than admitting it was them that was the problem and trying to come up with a solution together they take it out on the Pokémon. Bastards. It's a real shame too as Bulbasaur is clearly a good Pokémon judging on how many traps I avoided. I would love to have him as a partner as I had plans to hunt for a Bulbasaur. I decided on my team long before I left and a Bulbasaur was on that list. But I won't take a Pokémon that doesn't want to be caught. It's a shame really." Looking up at the sky he saw the sun had passed overhead "I must get going, I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help to you. Here" he said handing out a phone number "give Professor Oak a ring. He's a good man. And I'm certain he will help you re-home these Pokémon to trustworthy people. Again, I wish you all the best" standing up he said goodbye and walked back into the forest and following his Pokégear he quickly found the path again and carried on with his journey.

"We should be out of here by noon tomorrow at the latest guys. It gets dark too soon to walk at night, so we'll carry on until the sun starts to go down" Ash said.

"It was a real shame about Bulbasaur Ash" Pikachu said, "but it's an admirable job he's doing."

"It certainly is Pikachu" Ash replied "to both of those points. But it clearly views his role here of extreme importance, which it is. I just hope Bulbasaur realises that he will never reach his full potential staying here, but who am I to say what constitutes a fulfilling life? We all have our own path to lead."

Nodding the trio carried on in silence until they set up camp. They decided to keep a shift pattern again, just in case a wild Pokémon attacked. The next morning Ash woke up to see Bulbasaur standing staring at his tent.

"Er, Hi Bulbasaur" Ash said surprised. Looking around he saw Eevee asleep "did you knock out Eevee?"

"I did" Bulbasaur said in a slow deep voice, again surprising Ash "I wanted to talk to you before you left, and this was going to be my last chance".

Walking over to Eevee he shook her awake where she started chattering angrily about sneak attacks while glaring at Bulbasaur. Chuckling Ash stood up and walked back "and why did you need to talk to me?"

"You can understand me?" Bulbasaur said surprised.

"Yes, I can so I repeat, why did you want to talk to me?" Ash said sitting down and making breakfast for them all. Grabbing an extra bowl out of his bag he sprinkled on a few sweet berries and gave it to Bulbasaur.

"Oh, this is nice" Bulbasaur said happily "I wanted to know what your goals are. Melanie explained to me what you said, and I overheard you a few nights ago talking about Lady Arceus and a mission and I wanted to know why you feel you deserve to be my trainer."

"I'm going to stop you right there Bulbasaur" Ash said seriously "If you join our family then I will not be your trainer, I will be your partner. I do not ask Pikachu or Eevee for that matter to do any training that I myself am unwilling to do. We train together, we spar together, we battle together and when we eventually lose a battle we will lose together. This is very serious to me; my family is very serious to me. I don't have much but what I do have I cherish. Now I will tell you what I told Melanie. Your old trainer was a bastard for doing what he did and I will not now, nor will I ever abandon a Pokémon for losing a battle. Most trainers seem to forget the golden rule of battling. 'If you win it's the Pokémon that did so, if you lose it's because of the trainer'. I've always believed that and always will. Now, onto you. I would like you to become my Pokémon because I think you'll be an excellent addition to our family and will help us achieve our goals. What they are I can only tell you if you decide on joining us. Arceus herself decreed that and I will not go around it for anyone."

"What If I don't want to evolve?" Bulbasaur asked.

"Then we make you the strongest Bulbasaur the world has ever seen" Ash said simply "Pikachu doesn't want to evolve, and I will not force him to do so, and when we get to Vermillion, I'm going to buy Eevee an Everstone so that she can choose if and when she wants to evolve. That will be her choice. I will say this, our life is not going to be easy. We will constantly be heading into dangerous situations; some we may not live through so this is not going to be an easy choice. We have already been forced to kill. But as long as you are part of my family you will always be my priority. I will give you until noon to decide Bulbasaur. It's our training time right now. Come on guys. Up and at it."

Watching Ash and his Pokémon train was a revelation to Bulbasaur. They clearly didn't take things lightly with what they did. Seeing Eevee headbutting a tree to learn Headbutt and then use Iron Tail over and over on the same point of a tree showed the level they were willing to go through. Watching Ash and Pikachu though was amazing. They never kept still as they went full force at each other. How could a Pikachu use Aura Sphere? If that's what it was as it wasn't blue, it was a mixture of green and yellow.

Ash had discovered what the issue was. Pikachu wasn't a fighting type, and he also shouldn't be able to learn the move so he couldn't expect him to know how to form an Aura Sphere. Aura was the life force of everything around them which as a Pokémon he was more in tune with. Feeling the energy in the air was natural to a Pokémon, forming it into an attack was just as natural. Getting an Aura Sphere out of it was not so what they did was cheat. They came up with the idea to shape the aura around him into a ball and fill it with electricity and then throw it. Calling it Lightning Sphere was so that they could easily remember what it was they were after. Perfecting it was difficult though but the progress they made was phenomenal.

"You see Pikachu" Ash said stopping and taking a breather "when you don't think about the move you're using and just act on it naturally, in the heat of battle you're able to do it. When you have time though you overthink it and that's when it starts becoming an issue. With time though it will just be natural. Well done buddy. Eevee come on over, we're done for today. I saw the progress you made; you're doing really well. Learning Headbutt using your own initiative is also really good. Like I said before, if it's a good idea I'll leave you to it."

After they ate Ash packed up and they all walked over to Bulbasaur. "Well Bulbasaur, were going to be going now. Have you come to a decision?"

"Yes" he said standing up "I will join you. Watching you train I realised that the potential I have could make me extraordinary. And I will never become extraordinary here on my own. I would like to become your Pokémon".

"Family" Ash said gently correcting him taking out a Pokéball "if you join us, you become family".

"Family it is" Bulbasaur said extending a vine and touching the button on the Pokéball and being absorbed inside. Dinging to signal a capture he released Bulbasaur who shook itself.

"That was weird" Bulbasaur said.

"I told you Ash" Pikachu said smugly "it's a really strange feeling."

Laughing Ash pointed Dexter at Bulbasaur, and it bleeped to life.

"Bulbasaur, Pokedex Number 1, the Seed Pokémon. This Pokémon has a Sassy nature and the ability Chlorophyll. This Pokémon is male. A strange seed was planted on its back at birth. The plant sprouts and grows with this Pokémon. Bulbasaur knows the moves Tackle, Vine Whip, Razor Leaf, Stun Spore, Poison Powder, Sleep Powder and has the egg move Sludge Bomb that has yet to be unlocked."

"Ok, that's a good move set Bulbasaur." Ash said "Your nature isn't the best with the minus speed, but we can work around that. A Plus Special Defence is really good though for dealing with Pokémon that can seriously hurt you. Should you evolve you become more rooted to the spot anyway so any speed training wouldn't really be beneficial to you. We'll still do it but for now we'll focus on increasing the power of the attacks you know and teach you some new moves. You may have to be used in the next gym battle in a few weeks, so we've only got a short time frame to get you up to speed. Normally I don't think you can learn Sludge but obviously you may be able to given what your egg move is. We'll work on that at some point. For now, we'll attach some weights to your legs as you walk to build up the leg muscles and we'll go through topics you need to know."

Nodding happily Bulbasaur joined them and chatted away to Eevee and Pikachu while Ash listened on. Bulbasaur would be a very good addition Ash decided.

Chapter 7: Chapter 7- Family Part 2

Chapter Text

Family- Part two

A few days later they were all sat down around the fire eating when Ash looked up and saw rainclouds heading their way. "Uh oh, looks like there's a storm coming soon guys. Let's head inside" an hour later they were all huddled together as the rain pounded their tent. Suddenly they all tensed up as a massive spike of Aura washed over them.

"Ash that was fear, something out there is scared" Pikachu said.

"I know, but this storm is too fierce to brave it at the moment Pikachu" Ash said "we wouldn't be able to help whatever is out there if we can't even see in front of our hands. We just have to hope that it survives the storm" Nodding reluctantly they all sat waiting when another wave hit them.

"Ash, we need to do something. I can't sit here and do nothing" Pikachu said standing up.

"Very well" Ash said standing up and putting on his raincoat "but if we haven't found whatever it is in twenty minutes we're coming back here. We'll be no good to anyone if we're sick. Eevee and Bulbasaur I'm going to return you to your Pokéballs. Hopefully we find whatever is out there quickly."

Rushing out of the tent Ash ran in the direction his Aura had spiked from. It was a vague guess Ash thought to himself, but it was all he could do. Pulsing out his aura he felt a faint blip come from a particular direction. Shouting over the howling winds to Pikachu "It's coming from over there Pikachu, let's go." Running in the direction Ash felt another wave of fear go through him. Immediately they knew what was wrong. A Pokémon was in clear distress. Rushing out into a small clearing he saw a Charmander huddled on a rock holding a leaf over its tail while a couple of Spearow attacked it.

Immediately Ash saw red and fired off two Aura spheres sending the Spearow flying into the nearest trees where they hit with a squelch. Uncaring of if they were dead Ash immediately took off his coat and wrapped the Charmander up ignoring its faint protests about its trainer. Running back to their tent took a seemingly long time for Ash. He was desperate to get this Charmander out of the rain and seeing their tent appear out of the gloom brought a wave of relief to them both. Opening up his tent he immediately placed Charmander down and began to rifle through his bag for medicine and immediately began to apply it to the Pokémon as it passed out. Calling out Eevee and Bulbasaur he sat back and watched over the little lizard.

"All we can do now is wait Pikachu." Ash said in relief.

"Why was he out there though Ash?" Pikachu asked angrily.

"I share your anger my friend. And if I find out his trainer is responsible for this, we will deal with him" Ash said looking over at Eevee and Bulbasaur who were quiet in contemplation "I cannot abide abusers, you know this Eevee seeing as where I rescued you from. If I hadn't called Professor Oak and given away where I was, I would have likely killed A.J and no-one would have ever known. Every Pokémon I have caught, with the exception of Pikachu seems to be rescues so far. Cleffa, Eevee and Bulbasaur. All of you had people unworthy of your time. I hope that this Pokémon is simply lost, and his trainer couldn't find him in the storm but if I find out otherwise there will be hell to pay. Let's take turns keeping watch. I'll go first."

Eevee looked at the Charmander and immediately thought back to A.J. She was incredibly grateful to Ash for rescuing her as she had feared that being stuck with A.J was it for her. Pokémon can't leave a trainer unless the trainer says so and it burned her up inside for months after being caught. She had prayed and prayed to Arceus for months for help and then Ash appeared and rescued her. It was the main reason why she happily joined him. Arceus had clearly heard her. Ash being her chosen One cemented it for her and while she wouldn't be with him much longer, she knew that she would still be in his life forever more. She could take that. She would take that.

Bulbasaur looked at Charmander and felt a wave of pity. He didn't say it to Ash yet as he saw how angry Ash was, but he knew an abandoned Pokémon when he saw one. He had looked after them for years now at Melanie's shack and he knew all the signs pointed at an abusive trainer who abandoned their Pokémon to die. Shaking his head, he wondered on Ash's final words to them. Could he accept the death of a trainer as a suitable punishment? What gave Ash the right to make that call in the first place? He was clearly missing something here.

"Pikachu" he asked waking him up "I need to talk."

"Go on" he said coming to his new partners side "What's up?"

"What gives Ash the right to make life and death calls?" Bulbasaur asked "who is he to be able to bring judgement on anyone?"

"Ah, I wondered how long it would be before you asked that" Pikachu said. Eevee had woken up at Bulbasaur's question and trotted over. This had clearly been on her mind too "You both were born from eggs and then immediately captured, weren't you?" seeing their nods he carried on "then you won't have learned the lessons wild Pokémon are taught from birth. There's only a few, but they are integral to life and balance. We are here to keep the world running, humans and Pokémon alike live in a symbiotic relationship. We're taught from birth by our parents that to live alongside each other a certain amount of push-back will happen, but overall to respect Arceus' blessing of life. To that end wild Pokémon learn quickly what life is really about. It's something Pokémon that come from an egg to be immediately given to a trainer will never learn. They will never know what it feels like to have to scavenge for food, to be attacked daily by other wild Pokémon after your territory, social hierarchies, have brothers and sisters to compete with every day or to live in constant fear that you may die any day. It is nature at its finest.

The flip side is to become a trainers Pokémon. There are both pros and cons to this however as you have found out to your cost. If we are caught then it's understood that we will never have to find our own food, want for shelter and generally lead a longer life than we would wild. Some are battlers, some are simply pets. The downside of this is it is very rare to choose your own trainer. Ultimately you are stuck with who you get. If you're lucky you will find a nice trainer will treat you well. If you're unlucky you will not. Now Ash may not be the nicest person in the world. But I have found that is only to humans, specifically those he deems unworthy of his time. Abusers are a different thing. Ash is a crusader, a knight if you like. Some would call him a guardian; however, I wouldn't call him that to his face as it brings negative thoughts of the Aura guardians. That's another story though and for Ash to tell you about. The main thing you need to know is that Ash despises Pokémon abusers.

Now we're taught at birth to adhere to Arceus' code with one exception. We've been told stories for millennia about The Chosen Ones. They are heroes to Pokémon throughout the world as they are Arceus' judgement on earth that arrive to halt tragedies and to preserve the balance at any cost. Ash is the latest one in a longline of them. Ash is vital to the world. I'm not just saying this because he's my friend either as I knew from the moment I met him he was special. That is not to say that all Pokémon will welcome him with open arms, no. We all have our own thoughts and feelings after all. But you will rarely find a wild-born Pokémon who will let the Chosen Ones be disrespected. Ash is Arceus' voice on Earth, her will is undeniable. He has been tasked with seeking and eradicating evil from the world to restore balance. Now, Ash WILL mess up and kill the wrong people from time to time. He is human after all, but he is gathering around him a family that will call him on issues that they feel is wrong. So far, his kills have been justified which is why I haven't said anything negative about it.

Team Rocket is a plague on this world. Trainers like A.J and Charmanders trainer are a blot on the landscape and deserve death. Yes, we all can see that he is owned and believe me so can Ash. And we can all recognise abused traits in a Pokémon, again as can Ash. Ash is giving Charmanders trainer the benefit of the doubt at the moment because that storm was horrible, and they simply could have lost him. It is unlikely though. So Bulbasaur, I will give you until morning to think over what I have said. If you cannot stomach killing when necessary, I expect you to talk to Ash, tell him your reasons and leave. Ash will respect that and help you find someone else if need be. If you stay, then we will never bring up this topic again" with that Pikachu went back to Ash's sleeping bag and curled up. Looking up into Ash's face he saw he was awake and likely had been for a while. Nodding slightly Ash closed his eyes and they both drifted off to sleep.

The next morning Bulbasaur didn't say anything to Ash, so he didn't either. Watching over the Charmander all night had given Bulbasaur a fresh perspective on things. His worries while still there were not as prevalent as they had been. Ash had given him a chance to become the best he could be and he wasn't going to change his thoughts on that over an abusive trainer. Ash woke up and saw that Charmander was still out like a light and looking on his Pokégear he noticed that the nearest Pokémon centre was less than a mile away down the road.

"Let's go guys. We'll pack up and take Charmander to Nurse Joy" Ash said "Charmanders tail is still dangerously low and I have no doubts if we hadn't rescued him, he would have died last night. Thank you, Pikachu, for forcing the issue" he finished giving Pikachu a look. They both knew it wasn't just for Charmanders sake.

"You're welcome, Ash" Pikachu said, "it had to be done".

Packing up didn't take as long as they thought. With them all pitching in where they could they were away from their campsite within the hour. Walking down the track with Ash holding Charmander they eventually saw the big red housed building and went inside. Nurse Joy immediately rushed over and saw Charmander in his arms.

Before she had a chance to berate him, he said "Don't, it is not what you think. I rescued this Charmander last night as it was left alone on a rock in the middle of the storm. Now I have sprayed him with a full heal mixed with Oran berries, but his tail is still dangerously low. I brought him here as soon as I was able."

Nodding and thankful she hadn't said anything she took Ash and Charmander to a room where she placed Charmander in an incubator. Trying to read the charts Ash's head quickly gave him a headache. "It's in a better condition than I feared. You did well Mr?" Joy started.

"Ash Ketchum Miss Joy" Ash said pulling out his Pokédex and showing her his ID.

"It's just Nurse Joy" she replied happy with this trainers' manners "he will need to stay in this incubator for a day or so while we re-ignite his core heat to how it should be. He used up most of it keeping himself alive it seems. Now you said you found him last night in the storm?"

"Yes" Ash nodded "he was being attacked while he stayed on a rock by some Spearows. I chased them off and took him back to my tent where I gave him first aid and tried to keep him warm. I fear he may have been abandoned by his trainer as wild Pokémon would never stay where it's wide open, especially during a storm."

"Yes, you're correct" Joy said frowning "unfortunately until Charmander awakens we won't know for sure."

"Well, I will stick around until he does" Ash said "do you need any help around here? I may as well make myself useful. I trained with Professor Oak for years in how to handle Pokémon."

The rest of the day flew by as Ash helped Joy examine Pokémon from the many trainers that were passing through Route 5. Discreetly using Aura, he was able to establish that they were all being cared for reasonably well. There wasn't a single Pokémon that caused him concern. That was until his last trainer of the day came forward and handed him a bag of Pokémon.

"Take care of these" he said before walking off. Going immediately to Nurse Joy she frowned at them. "It's uncommon for a trainer to not have any ID with them but it happens though. Let's have a look at them shall we."

Passing them through her healing machines she was immediately concerned. "These Pokémon aren't doing too well Ash. A lot of these are showing signs of forced evolution and malnourishment".

"Is there anything we can do?" Ash asked.

"No sadly" Joy said "it's the worst part of my job this. I can only heal them and give the trainer a warning and as he has no Pokédex number I can't report him, so he'll likely just ignore me. I will definitely flag him to the other Joys and Jenny's but without proof of abuse, and no trainer ID we can't do anything else" Nodding sadly she left to heal them, and Ash made his way out to the counter with Pikachu on his shoulder.

Sitting down and eating it wasn't long before he was disturbed by the very trainer he was thinking of "Nice Pikachu. How much will you sell it for?"

Looking up and frowning he said "He's not for sale and never will be."

"Come on man, it's a shiny Pikachu. You must have bought him yourself so one dealer to another, how much?" the guy said.

Standing up and staring him down he said "I did not buy him; he is not for sale. Now piss off before I hit you."

Snorting the man turned to leave but not before saying "by the time I leave I will have that Pikachu, whether you're alive to see it or not".

"And if you try anything you will leave here in a wooden box, is that clear" Ash said leaking Aura everywhere in anger and punching him in the face. Blood spurted everywhere as he flew back. Quickly his friends pulled him to their table before anything else happened and Ash stalked off back to his room.

"We need to be alert tonight, Pikachu. He won't let this slide, you know that" Ash said. Ringing Sam, he explained the situation and gave him a description of the man. Sam replied that he would forward it on to all the police stations just in case Pikachu went missing. Before hanging up though he warned Ash to be careful, and to make sure anything he did could clearly be seen as self-defence. All night they were awake, which left Ash in an irritable mood. Finding Nurse Joy, he saw she was in some distress. "Charmander has gone. He left as soon as I opened the incubator and I can't leave here to find it".

"I know where it will have gone" Ash said. "I believe he was that abusive trainers Pokémon yesterday. I have no proof of that though. Charmander will have gone back to that rock so I'll go and find him."

Leaving the centre Ash headed back to the rock. Furious with himself that he wasn't there to ask Charmander who he belonged to. Coming up to the rock an hour later he heard a voice and walking around the bend he saw that it was that trainer he had punched who had Charmander gripped by its neck in his hand.

"I told you to stay on this rock if you wanted to be my Pokémon. You clearly disobeyed me. I have no use for a disloyal Pokémon whose Ember attack can't beat a Bellsprout" The man said throwing Charmander to the ground.

"If you don't want him then I'll have him" Ash said coming forward.

"You" the man said loathing written all over his face "You want this weakling? Why?"

"A Pokémon is only as weak as his trainer" Ash said walking up to them "If Charmander is weak then it's because you're a shit trainer. You clearly don't want him, so I will. You don't have to put up with this abuse Charmander."

"No, I don't think so" he said sneering "I'll just order it to sit here again until it's not my problem anymore."

"Or" Ash said "I break your arm to go along with your nose, rip it off and use it to press that release button on the ball so Charmander goes free. Your choice"

Clearly thinking was difficult for this trainer "I have another idea. You want this pathetic Pokémon badly so you can have it, but I want that Pikachu in return."

Without even thinking Ash broke his nose again causing him to howl and drop Charmanders ball. Grabbing the man's hand he twisted it causing him more pain. Picking up the ball with his other hand he forced it into the mans and he pressed the button until it glowed blue. Directing it at Charmander he clicked it again. Ten seconds later the ball cracked open signalling it was no longer in use. Picking up the still in shock Charmander he carried it back to the Pokémon centre. Walking in he passed him to Nurse Joy who took him back to the incubator. All the while Charmander said nothing.

Half an hour later the man came storming into the centre demanding to Nurse Joy that the police be called. Ash walked out and saw what all the ruckus was about. "Oh, It's you"

"You!" he said before shouting at Nurse Joy "I want him arrested for assault and theft".

"I'll tell you what, I'll call Officer Jenny myself shall I?" Ash said taking out his Pokégear and dialling her number. It gave three rings before it was picked up.

"Hello Ash" Jenny said, "what can I do for you?"

"Hi Jenny, can you do me a favour and ring the nearest police station to the Pokémon centre on route 5 please?"

"I can yeah, what for?" Jenny asked.

"I have a man here demanding I be arrested for assault and theft. So, I thought I'd save the poor Nurse Joy here some earache and do it myself" Ash said still looking at the man.

"That's a bit unusual. You want to turn yourself in for assault and theft?" Jenny asked confused.

"I do yeah. Well, the assault part anyway. I have no idea what it is I stole" Ash said.

"You stole my Charminder" the man said spitting angry.

"Well Jenny will be there in the next fifteen minutes Ash" Jenny said hanging up.

Sitting down very unconcerned Ash and Joy talked quietly.

"Ash what are you doing? Why are you turning yourself in" Joy asked worried.

"Because he's messed up. And should it play out the way I think he will he'll never be able to have a Pokémon again. I just need you to play a small part, you'll know when to step in. Trust me. Just deny Charmander is here if she asks" Ash said and then did the zipped mouth sign.

Ten minutes later Jenny walked in to find Ash sitting talking to Nurse Joy and a man with a clearly broken nose and blood on his face glaring at them. Seeing her the man stood up "There! Him! I want him arrested for assault and theft!"

"Ok, settle down or I'll arrest you. I'm not in the mood for nonsense today so, explain to me what he's supposedly done." Jenny said making him sit down.

"He stole my Charminder and broke my nose, twice" the man said frothing at the mouth.

"Is this true?" Jenny asked Ash.

"I broke his nose once, the rest I have no idea what he's on about" Ash said shrugging his shoulder causing the man to stand up and begin shouting about him lying.

"Alright enough" Jenny shouted pinching the bridge of her nose "we'll soon sort this out. Who are your sponsors?"

"Professor Oak" Ash said.

"I don't have one" the man said.

"So, if I ring Oak and ask him if you have a Charmander what will he say?" Jenny asked Ash.

"He will tell you that at the moment I do not have a Charmander on record as being caught. I have 4 Pokémon registered to my trainer ID and I have no others anywhere else. Here" Ash said handing her his Pokédex. Pressing a button Dexter blared to life "My name is Dexter and I am the identification for Junior Professor Ash Ketchum, trainer number AK191298. Currently Ash Ketchum has four Pokémon caught on record. In order Pikachu, Cleffa, Eevee and Bulbasaur."

Handing it back to Ash she nodded to him. "Professor Oak won't lie for me Officer and I have no reason to lie either. I broke his nose last night because I wouldn't sell him Pikachu and he threatened to kill me and steal him while I slept. My Pokémon are like my family, and I will defend them to the last."

"Ok, Ash" Jenny said "well that will have to go on your record that you have a charge of assault. It will disappear after two years of no further infractions. Until then though it will be hanging over you. Now for you" she said turning to the man "What is your name, and can you provide me evidence that you had a Charmander and that it belonged to you?"

"I told you, I ain't got a sponsor" the man said sourly. "The name is Damian."

"Then you cannot prove a Charmander has been stolen" Jenny said, "nor can you prove you own any Pokémon."

"About that" Ash said leaning forwards "I read an article recently that without proof of ownership you're not an official trainer. Is that right?"

"It is" Jenny said "Any Pokémon caught by an unsanctioned trainer cannot be legally theirs. There is an exception though, those Pokémon must be identified as pets but even then they need ID stating that."

"So theoretically" Ash said, "what would happen if I knew of an unsanctioned trainer that had a bag full of Pokémon in Pokéballs?" causing the man to pale.

"They would be confiscated and assessed for abuse by a sanctioned Nurse like Nurse Joy here" Jenny said puzzled "and only with her say so can the person petition for their return."

"Interesting" Ash said looking at Joy. Seeing her blank face, he nudged her with his foot and looked at her sternly.

"Oh" she said suddenly "well that trainer brought in a bag full of Pokémon last night that show signs of abuse and malnourishment. His Pokémon had signs of forced evolution, extremely poor conditioning, and signs of battling with broken bones. I hate that I cannot do anything about it due to the laws that rule the Pokémon centres as safe spaces."

"Did he indeed" Jenny said standing up "hand them over."

Looking around furtively and sweating Damian lunged for the door. He only went two steps though before Jenny was on top of him, pinning him to the floor and in one fluid movement had him handcuffed. Whistling Ash said, "that's the first and only time I will consider messing with a Jenny" as she loaded him into the back of the van. Picking up his bag he handed them to Jenny. "they're all in here. If you need help distributing them then ring Professor Oak. I'm sure he'll happily help you take them to various nature preserves when they're healed."

"I know how to do my job young man" Jenny said taking the bag "speaking of, I'll let the assault charge slide just this once. Do not make this a habit though and I will be asking my sisters and cousins to keep an eye out for you" she finished sternly before climbing into the van and driving off.

Walking back into the Pokémon Centre Ash steeled himself for what he knew was coming. Walking past a smiling Nurse Joy he said "little victories" before carrying on into Charmanders room. This wasn't going to be easy.

"Hello Charmander" Ash said sitting down making it look up looking confused "My name is Ash Ketchum. I'm sure right now you're feeling overwhelmed at what happened. I rescued you last night because you needed saving and I rescued you before for the same reason. And right now, you need saving again. I won't beat around the bush. I want you as my Pokémon. I know there is a fantastic and strong Pokémon inside of you. All you need is training. I want to be your trainer, but more that I believe you will be a fantastic edition to my family. So, I will leave you to decide. You have until this evening because that's when I will be leaving and if you choose not to then I will wish you all the best Charmander and I hope someday we will see each other again."

Standing up Ash left the Pokémon centre and trained in its practice fields. Bulbasaur had still not gotten used to the weights just yet so for now Ash had him hop on the spot, twisting in mid-air to use Razor Leaf at the random Aura and Lightning Spheres Ash and Pikachu shot at him. Eevee was busy doing sprints around the field, occasionally stopping and digging and coming up using Iron Tail as she did. She was getting really good at that. Pikachu had learned Light Screen in the last few weeks, but it needed perfecting. Unfortunately to the moment he didn't have a special attacker to use with Pikachu to test it.

Charmander had heard a ruckus outside and wondered what was happening. Looking out his window he saw the trainer who had rescued him chatting and training alongside his Pokémon. It was a startling contrast to his old one who seemed to expect a Pokémon to already know the moves he wanted to be used. And if they didn't they were denied food, kicked and punched and outright abused. Charmander knew that Damian left him there to die. He had hoped that staying on the rock would prove he was dedicated to be a good Pokémon for Damian, it wasn't his fault that he was taken to a Pokémon Centre and he returned to the rock as soon as he could. Damien clearly didn't think so and had made a point of telling Charmander that he was pathetic. But what choice did Charmander have? Damian had caught him. He had to obey Arceus' law. It was just really bad luck that had happened.

And then the trainer arrived and rescued him, and his world changed. Charmander knew instantly that he was special and he was clearly one of Arceus' chosen. His aura was visible for everyone to see and he wanted Charmander to join him? He didn't even know why he was thinking about it really. He had been told by the nurse that he was in need of a lot of mental healing more than physical healing. What if this guy turned out to be just as bad as Damian in the long run? He doubted it but then again, the doubts were still there. Walking back to his bed he grabbed his tail and stared at his flame. Last night it should have gone out, and he was prepared to let that happen but he had been given a second chance, escaped the miserable situation he was in and then offered a spot on the Chosen Ones team. This could only be a gift from Lady Arceus. He was still angry with her for the life he had been forced to lead so far but maybe this was her way of making it up to him. The decision had been made the moment he was asked really.

Packing up Ash walked out of his room to say goodbye to Nurse Joy and to thank her for what she had done. Smiling she accepted his thanks and told him Charmander wanted to see him before he left. Nodding Ash walked in the back to his room and walked in

"Well Charmander, I'm about to leave" Ash said, "have you made a decision?"

"I have reservations" Charmander said "I will not put up with abuse again. I'm still unsure if this is Arceus' blessing or a curse she has placed on me but for now I will come along with you. I reserve the right to change my mind though."

"Very well" Ash said taking out a Pokéball and placing it on the bed "but be warned, I tolerate no disrespect to either myself or my Pokémon family. You will not be abused in retaliation, I will never strike you or withhold food as punishment, but you will be disciplined, as the rest of my Pokémon will be. So far, we've not needed to do anything like that but know this, should you fully accept being in our little family we will defend you to the death if need be. Training will be harsh at times, but you will get used to the standards I have set for everyone and in doing so will become great. So, the choice is yours."

Standing up Charmander touched the ball and disappeared inside. "It seems we have another family member Pikachu. Let's go"

Leaving the Pokémon Centre Ash followed the signpost that said 'Vermillion 20km'. Walking down the path Ash mused on how radically life had changed in the past month. He had caught three new Pokémon, admittedly one was for his mother but still, he was well on his way to building a team. "Do you ever think Pikachu that Arceus is placing these Pokémon directly in our path?"

"What do you mean Ash?" Pikachu asked confused.

"Well, I've not exactly made it a secret that I will only have a team of six" ash said thinking out loud "and I've been pretty vocal that three of our team will be the Kanto starters. And in the space of a week, I have two of them. One could be played off, two is awfully coincidental don't you think?"

"I see what you mean" Pikachu said nodding "At the moment I'd say no, to me it is coincidental. After all we chose to walk into that forest and find Bulbasaur, he wasn't given to us and we were already going down this route when we found Charmander."

"Yeah that's true" Ash said "but we were given the chance of rescuing them both all the same. In fact, every Pokémon I have I've rescued. You when you were a Pichu, Cleffa from Team Rocket, Eevee from A.J, Bulbasaur from being abandoned and now Charmander from that prick Damian."

"Again, that's undeniable" Pikachu said "but you've chosen to rescue them. You didn't have to, you weren't made to. You chose to because it was the right thing to do. And you've been rewarded for doing so. You have two of your three desired team".

"Three out of Four" Ash said correcting him "I always wanted you as my starter ever since I met you. There was something about you that resonated with me from the very beginning. I was offered a Pikachu by Sam but declined it because I knew it wouldn't be you. I see your point though. I still believe this was all set up though, I just took advantage of the situations."

"Which is what happens with life in general" Pikachu said shrugging "Life is all about choices, decisions not made and the consequences that come from the decisions that are."

"When did you get so philosophical?" Ash asked surprised laughing as they carried on down the route.

"I will say though Ash that should we find a Squirtle soon then I may have to agree that this has been one big set-up." Pikachu said after ten minutes of silence.

"Oh, why did you have to say that?" Ash said shaking his head "you know that we will find one soon now."

"Are you seriously complaining about completing the team you known you wanted?" Pikachu asked.

"Yes" Ash said laughing "because then what will we catch? I still have no idea who I want as our last two members and at least with Squirtle still out there I can focus on finding it and not have that worry"

Pikachu slapped Ash on the back of the head with his tail "Were you dropped on your head as a child?"

"Shut up." Ash said laughing.

Setting up camp later he called everyone out. "Guys I'd like to welcome Charmander to our little family. He has decided to join us, so I'd like you all to make him feel at home. Chatting to Pikachu earlier I realised something. All of you have been rescued, you all seem to have a traumatic past so to that end I would like to schedule at least once a month where it's just the two of us for the day to talk over any issues you may have, whether you feel you're not settling in, any issues from your past you may want to talk about etc. There's no pressure here guys. And this is a safe space for you to talk should you want to. We will always listen, Ok? Eevee you obviously can talk to my mum, but should you need me I'm always a phone call away and my mum will help you.

Now, onto the next few weeks. We're still around 15km from Vermillion City but I've promised Professor Oak that we'd make a detour to a man called Bill who lives just outside it. He's apparently a terrific researcher so it should be interesting. Bulbasaur, we're going to try and teach you Sludge this week. I had an idea on how we may do it as normally you can't learn it. Your egg move though suggests you can. Pikachu, now we've got Charmander we can try and perfect your Light Screen by having him use Ember. To that end let's have a look at you Charmander." Taking out Dexter he pointed it at Charmander. Bleeping to life it said

"Charmander Pokédex Number 4, The lizard Pokémon. This Pokémon is male and has the ability Solar Power. The flame on its tail shows the strength of its life force. If it is weak, the flame also burns weakly. This Pokémon has a Mild nature and knows the moves Scratch, Ember, Smokescreen and Growl. It also has the egg move Outrage but it has not yet been unlocked."

"Well, that's a good start but there's loads of things we can improve upon. I think for starters we will start by having Pikachu teach you Brick Break and Metal Claw while we have you target him using Ember to help his Light Screen. Building up your inner fire reserves are going to be what we primarily focus on so we will be exhausting you daily to build up your stamina and expand your core. We've been in need of a special attacker like yourself. As I told the others I will be helping you as much as I can by providing vitamins in your food that will help you build up your body. Your defence is your weakness due to your nature, so we'll start by building up those. For the next month I'm going to be feeding you Iron and Zinc in your food. I want it to get to a point where you can take a water move head on and not even flinch which I fully believe is possible. We start tomorrow. For now, let's chat about anything and everything."

Charmander looked around and wondered just what he had gotten himself into. The group seemed like a very strange but happy one but hearing Ash's words about building him up though relaxed the little lizard. He had made the right choice. He just knew it.

Chapter 8: Chapter 8- The Final Piece Of The Puzzle?

Chapter Text

Chapter 8- the final pieces of the puzzle

Ash was walking down the route to Vermillion just chatting away with Charmander. The little lizard was full of questions, and while Ash couldn't answer them all he was very satisfied with the answers he did get.

"What about evolution?" Charmander asked as they were all sat having dinner.

"What about it?" Ash replied looking a bit perplexed.

"Well, you've said that it's our choice to evolve" Charmander said "what if we don't want to?"

"That's your choice. I won't force you to do something you don't want to do" Ash said.

"But our strongest moves only come with evolution" Charmander said "surely, you'd prefer we evolved? After all most trainers only want a Charmander to get a Charizard"

"That's true" Ash said "Your move pool is limited by staying as a starter. You'll never fly, Bulbasaur will never learn the strongest grass moves, even Pikachu won't be able to learn moves a Raichu can. But the other side of that argument is that you can try and become the strongest starter the world has ever seen. I honestly don't mind either way. But choosing not to evolve is on you and as such you need to accept your limitations. I'm more than happy to train you either way if that's what you want.

To your second point. Would I prefer you evolve? Only in as much as we get to learn new moves and discover just how powerful a Venusaur, or a Raichu, or a Charizard can be. That's exciting to me. Plus, you will be incredibly stronger as your final form than you ever will be as a starter. That's basic knowledge though. You will rarely find a Charmander who can go toe-to-toe with a Charizard, but we can give it a go. As I said though whatever you decide I'm ok with. I didn't plan a team around what you will end up as, I planned it around how good I can make you. I suggest you think about what YOU want Charmander. Ultimately what I want is pointless. Pikachu wants to be the strongest electric type in the world, to the point Rock and Ground types fear him and no one will ever say a Pikachu is just an electric rat and he's well on his way to doing that. I've yet to learn what Bulbasaur wants but when I do, I will help him all I can to achieve it. Eevee will be my mum's responsibility but If I can help her achieve her dreams I will do so. Everyone is different Charmander."

Nodding Charmander walked over to a tree and sat down. No one stopped him as he clearly needed to think on what was said. Charmander had a burning desire to be the best, he wanted legendaries to fear him but he very much doubted he could do that in his base form. An hour later he walked back over to the group and sat down. "I will hold off on evolution for now, but I want to be the strongest I can be before I evolve so that when I become a Charizard, Lady Moltres will be known as the second strongest fire type in our region."

"Then that's what we will do." Ash said earning nods from everyone else "It will take months, possibly years of training but we will achieve that goal if we work together. When your skills as a Charmander level off then we will talk about evolution, until then we travel and train."

A week later Charmander was starting to regret saying anything. Every day he exhausted himself in training emptying his fire reserves and running until he nearly passed out. Ash stepped in four days after their conversation and warned him that while his progress was very good, exhausting himself would not benefit anyone so they agreed to limit their training to two hours a day. Charmander was relentless, second only to Pikachu in his training which was astonishing considering he was brand new to this type of training. Charmander mastered Metal Claw in record time and was well on his way to learning Brick Break. He had a habit of not stopping until he learned the move. A week after being caught Ash had another conversation with him.

"I think you must have a Dragon type as either a parent or a grandparent so we'll try and see if you can learn a few Dragon type moves" Ash said one evening "your egg move suggests it anyway but your burning desire to train is only usually found in dragons. It's astonishing how quickly you've progressed in just a week. We're all very proud of you, you know?" turning to the group he continued "I'm not one for praising lightly, you all know this. But I'm very proud of you all. You've all proved to me that you will be great and I thank you for being my family."

The next morning Ash discovered a thief had been into his tent after they trained. Pulsing out his aura he found nothing nearby and asking Pikachu to try to pick up a scent proved useless too. Looking through his bag he noticed what had gone missing. Why would someone want to steal one of his stones he had picked up from Mt Moon? He had sent Professor Oak an email while he was in cerulean asking about them and Sam had replied back fairly quickly and told Ash they were pretty rare. They were shards of a comet that had passed by at some point that had broken off and fallen to Earth. They were more commonly known as Moon Stones and were used to evolve select Pokémon. No one knows how they came to be either. People just assumed that because they were from space they may be from the Moon, hence the name.

"Very strange" he muttered as he packed up. With no Pokémon or person nearby, he had no idea what it was. Cursing himself for being so lax in training he vowed to be mindful to stay near their camp from now on while the trained. It was late afternoon when Pikachu's ears pricked up. Charmander was also very wary, as if he could sense something nearby. Out of nowhere a geyser of water came barrelling their way and they all dove out of the way.

"Thunderbolt Pikachu, Charmander use Ember in the same direction" Ash shouted standing back up.

Immediately pained cries filled their ears from behind the bush as something was blasted away further into the undergrowth. From all around them more water came headed their way and they ducked. Calling out Bulbasaur and Eevee he said "guys, we're being attacked from all sides, do what you can" and immediately attacks were thrown in various directions followed by more cries. Shaking his head Ash cursed himself, pulsing his Aura he received four faint blips around them. "They're not moving anymore guys. Let's go see what they are. Each of you pick a direction and drag them back here. I have a feeling we're not done yet" within the next few minutes his Pokémon had retrieved what attacked them. Ash was very surprised at what he saw. Four Squirtle with various marks all over them, all knocked out.

"Ash" Pikachu said sniggering.

"Don't Pikachu" Ash said shaking his head "don't say what I think you're going to say".

"What was he going to say?" Charmander asked.

Sighing Ash shook his head "Before I set out, I told my mum of the first four Pokémon I wanted. A Pikachu, a Bulbasaur, a Charmander and a Squirtle. The other day after I had caught you I asked Pikachu what the odds were that I found both you and Bulbasaur within a week of each other when I'd not made it a secret what I wanted in my team and if this was Arceus' way of helping me. We agreed that it was coincidental but that if we found a Squirtle not long after then we knew that our meeting had been set up by Arceus. And then here we are, a week later and not one, but four attack us." Turning to Pikachu he said "I know I should be grateful, and I really am. But this is ridiculous" at that Pikachu burst out laughing.

"What should we do with these?" Bulbasaur asked.

"I'll capture them and see if Bill knows what we can do with them." Ash said taking out some Pokéballs. He had deliberately bought more in Cerulean in case he found a Pokémon for his mum. They didn't even rock signifying capture. Clicking a button on them they halted being transported away so that Sam didn't have to deal with them. "Come on, the lighthouse is just down this road. We should be there in a few hours" and with that they set back off. Less than ten minutes later an Officer Jenny came racing by on an Arcanine. Halting she got off and approached Ash.

"Hello there" Jenny asked, "Oh it's you Ash. You wouldn't have happened to come across five Squirtle would you?"

"I have just caught four Squirtle" Ash said shocking her pulling out their Pokéballs "I was just on my way to see Bill to see if he could transport them to Professor Oak so they could be re-homed. They attacked us this morning, so we beat them and captured them. But if you want them, you can have them" Ash said.

"You'd give them up?" Jenny said, "just like that?"

"Well, I'd give three of them up. I did always want a Squirtle, and I do have room on my team" Ash said shrugging his shoulders. "Why are you chasing them anyway?"

"Oh yes" Jenny said "I never did tell you, did I? These particular Squirtle are part of a gang of miscreants that have been terrorising the local village. They steal food and items and run off to someplace they stay. I've yet to find it. But they all seem to be part of a gang we call the Squirtle Squad and is led by a shiny Squirtle that wears sunglasses. They're not bad Pokémon, they've just got a deep mistrust of humans since their original trainers abandoned them and are lashing out. I was hoping to catch them to have them join our local fire brigade who train water types to combat fires throughout Kanto".

"Apart from Pikachu all my Pokémon were abandoned by their original trainer, so I understand what they're going through" Ash said handing all four over to Jenny shocking her "I can catch another Squirtle some other time. Four are always better than three when battling fires. And my mother's shop was saved by the Pokémon fire brigade, so this is my way of giving back."

"Wow" Jenny said "thank you Ash" she said putting them into her coat pocket. Just as she got back onto her Arcanine a massive blast of water smashed into her from the side and sent her flying unconscious into a tree as a big Squirtle with sunglasses came charging out of the bushes shouting angrily.

Acting on instinct ash commanded Pikachu to use Thunderbolt. Immediately Squirtle lit up and screamed in pain. Struggling to stand up it eventually managed to find it's feet "Give me back my friends".

"No" Ash said shocking it "your friends have been bad Pokémon and I captured them fairly."

"GIVE ME BACK MY FRIENDS" he shouted charging at Ash before Ash moved out of the way and threw an aura sphere, impacting Squirtles back and sending him flying. Without waiting Pikachu fried him again and knocked him out. Throwing a Pokéball Ash watched as it shook violently. After half a minute it went silent. Ash had caught the final Squirtle. Quickly rushing over to Jenny, he saw that she was conscious again but holding her hand. "I think its broken from the fall."

"Luckily you have a fast Pokémon that can get you to the hospital" Ash said helping her to her feet. "If you like I can attempt to heal you? I'm an aura user and have been training for over five years now. If I don't heal it, then we can at least make it so the area is numb enough for you to get to a hospital?"

"What the hell" Jenny said holding out her arm gingerly, wincing as she did "worth a try." Holding her arm as gently as he could Ash stretched out his aura encompassing Jenny's arm. "Ooh that tickles" she said giggling. Ignoring her Ash carried on wrapping his aura around her bone and setting it back into place. It took around five minutes of working on it to be somewhat fixed. It was still broken but it was now set. Opening up his bag Ash took out a bandage and wrapped it as carefully as he could.

"I couldn't heal the fracture completely, but it should fix itself now" Ash said, "I'd advise going to the hospital and letting them know what happened, a piece of bone could have splintered off and I wouldn't know so at least you'll be covered."

"That was amazing Ash" Jenny said staring at her bandaged hand "I'll go as soon as I have processed these four miscreants" she said pointing to Squirtle's pokeballs.

"Yeah, about that" Ash said suddenly "you mentioned they like to steal things?" seeing her nod he continued "well this morning I came back from training to find my tent had been ransacked and a few items taken from my rucksack. One of them was very rare, it was one of a pair of Moon Stones I picked up in Mt Moon. Do you mind if we question them now to see where they've hidden them?"

"It's not strictly procedure Ash" Jenny said "but we can ask them" she said calling them all out.

"You may want to cover your ears Officer" Ash said. Seeing her confused face, he said "plausible deniability."

"No" Jenny said, "we'll just agree that I stop you from doing anything too illegal."

"Now, Squirtle" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "We have a question to ask, and I'm not above having Pikachu here Thundershock you into compliance. Where did you take all the items you stole from the local village?"

"We can't tell you" One of the Squirtle said after a minute of silence "Our boss would be unhappy."

"Well, I've just caught your boss" Ash said taking out a Pokéball and releasing him. Seeing his mutinous face Ash carried on "And I'm rather unhappy at you five stealing from my tent this morning. An item you took has significant value so, you have to the count of five before Pikachu shocks you. And each time he has to do so I'll ask him to amp up the electricity. Officer Jenny won't help you either as she's not happy about all the items that have been stolen from the village. For all you know you could have put several people out of business stealing their merchandise and food to sell. They had nothing to do with your trainers abandoning you. So, you five have a minute to decide amongst yourselves" Ash said walking to Jenny's side "I did say you may want to cover your ears."

"I'll let it slide this time as they did take something I'm desperate to get back" Jenny said keeping an eye on them "a little girl is severely ill. And these guys took her medicine, and she has to wait another two weeks before any more can be delivered. She's not doing so well Ash."

"Then we're definitely getting answers today then" Ash said determinedly walking back to them he overheard the last part of the conversation.

"…but they've just said that a girl is very ill. I don't like the idea of causing children harm. We never agreed to do that."

"But what if she's lying? Our previous trainers promised us things and then lied about them." The shiny Squirtle said frowning.

"She has no reason to lie" Ash said interrupting them. "Jenny is one of the most honourable people I've ever met. Her whole family are dedicated to finding truth and justice. And for the last four-hundred years of her ancestors doing this job, not one has ever been even accused of corruption. I don't have many rules that I truly adhere to, and you can say what you want about trainers, yours in particular were absolute bastards and if I should ever find them, I will hurt them for abandoning you, but I will not hear about any insults to Jenny's or Joys. They're the most selfless people I've ever met or heard of. Now, where is your lair?"

Still looking mutinous the lead Squirtle said "follow me" twenty minutes and several disabled traps later Ash and Jenny came to a cave in the side of a hill. Inside they followed the Squirtle for another five minutes through several tunnels before Ash had enough. "Pikachu, Thundershock on the lead Squirtle" without questioning why he did as he was asked creating an outcry from the rest.

"Why did you do that Ash?" Jenny asked.

"Because he's leading us into a trap" Ash said frowning and marching over to him. Kneeling at his side he said "I'm an aura user. I know a trap when I see one. Now I know your stash is in this place somewhere, you're too familiar with the tunnels for it to be elsewhere so I suggest you stop pissing us all around and take us there. A little girl's life may be on the line, and I am in no mood to play games."

Standing up Ash waited for the Squirtle to do the same. Staring each other down for a minute the Squirtle nodded his head and began to lead them back the way they came. When the entrance hole came in sight Squirtle pressed his hand into a hole just on the right side and it opened up into another tunnel. Walking down Ash saw that they had reached the room they were after. Immediately Ash walked over to where their latest horde was located. Seeing his Moon Stone and picking it up Ash headed back to Jenny. Showing it to her she nodded and logged the place on her phone. Knowing she'd need help to retrieve all the items to give them back she called the local station with her location. An hour later the horde had been placed into the back of a van and left to be processed.

"Hopefully the girls medicine is in there intact" Ash said outside the station to Jenny.

"I hope so too" Jenny said looking a bit more relaxed "we're going to let the village know to come and collect the items that were stolen from them too. By the way Ash, were you really going to fry the Squirtle's into compliance?"

"Yes" Ash said seriously, shocking her "I can't abide thieves, and I don't tolerate disrespect to Jenny's and Joys. And neither do my Pokémon."

"Well, you're going to have your hands full with your particular Squirtle" Jenny said tearing up and giving him a hug leaving Ash was in shock. Apart from his mother he had never been hugged before, especially by an older woman too! He would never admit to anyone how nice Jenny smelt and felt. Blushing heavily Ash escaped her grasp and nodded. Giving him a knowing smile Jenny said goodbye as Ash walked down the path and onto route 6, Pikachu and Eevee sniggering all the way.

That night as Ash set up camp, he decided to get it over with and introduce Squirtle to the rest of the group. Immediately upon being released Squirtle turned his back on Ash and the rest.

"Who is he?" Bulbasaur asked confused "And what's up with him?"

"Yeah" Charmander said standing up "he's being awfully rude."

"This, guys" Ash said "is our new partner, Squirtle. Now he isn't happy about being caught, and while I'd normally let a Pokémon go if they don't want to be here, I feel that Squirtle here needs to be around people who knows what he's going through."

"You have no idea what I have been through" Squirtle said angrily turning around "none of you do."

"Yes, we do" Ash said correcting him shocking him "every single Pokémon here apart from Pikachu has been abandoned by their original trainer, abused by their trainer or in Charmanders case abandoned and abused. And I rescued them all from the situations they were in. We are now a family; they choose to be with me and should they want to leave then they can do."

"And what if I want to leave?" Squirtle asked angrily "why am I held captive?"

"You're not" Ash said "If you want to leave by the time we get to Vermillion then I'll release you. Until then you'll remain with me. Be warned though, any disrespect to anyone in our family will be dealt with. None of us tolerate it, to any of us or from any of us. If we have an issue, we sit down as a group and talk things through and while I have the final say on most decisions, I will still listen to any issues that are brought up and as a family we come to a resolution. Just a few days ago we had to have one with Charmander who was pushing himself too much in training. We resolved it quickly and moved on. Pikachu is always chatting to me about any issues he has, Bulbasaur is new, but he's began to do the same and Eevee has long since got over her shyness. So yes, we know exactly what you're going through and if you want help, we can offer it to you. If you want a family, then we can be that for you and I will train you. If not, then I'll release you in Vermillion. Until then though I suggest you listen and decide."

Squirtle had gotten got up and walked to the edge of the camp where he sat down and tried to ignore Ash's words. He really tried but they ate away at him all night. Ash however began preparing their tea and they all chatted about general things until they went to bed. Squirtle had yet to come to a decision the next morning. He was still really angry with his previous trainer and now he had been captured again? He enjoyed being free, he really did but it was a tough life. He had been born from an egg and became someone's starter straight away, so he never had to want for anything. His trainer was born into a very rich family, who bought every Pokémon he had and as such had unrealistic expectations. In fact, he was an idiot. He thought that as a shiny Pokémon he would know more moves than a normal Squirtle and be more powerful but that's never the case. And he had been put into a fight against a trainer with a Victreebel and lost badly. Honestly, expecting him to know Blizzard despite never being taught or trained in the move was ridiculous. Needless to say, he got battered. And then had been released outside of Vermillion.

Life had then become really hard for Squirtle who was used to eating on a regular basis, saw the best healers and lived a very comfortable life. No longer being in that environment was a harsh wake-up call and having to literally steal to eat because he hadn't been taught normal every-day functions was horrible. And then he found like minded Squirtle's who had also suffered because of their trainers. Squirtle who had been abandoned like they were nothing by humans. And that anger festered and over time became genuine hatred. He didn't care about the people he stole from after the fifth member joined their group. Why should he? Humans had proved to him that they couldn't be trusted, were self-serving and had no idea what their actions caused. So, they started to way-lay people that walked along their route. They knew they would be safe in their cave as no one had found it except them and every little item they stole brought them a little more revenge. Outwitting the local law-enforcement had become a game to them all. One they got away with for a long time.

And then one day they attacked the wrong person as they never expected to find someone more competent than all the others. They had become arrogant with their success and just knew they would always be successful. That was until they came across a trainer who beat them all in a fight. Squirtle had watched on, confident they would get away with another heist and then watched on in horror as they were all caught. He knew he needed to rescue his comrades but again didn't expect to be so thoroughly trounced. Hearing about the little girl did make him feel guilty, hopefully she would be ok, but he still had a lot of resentment towards humans.

Waking up he heard a lot of noise from the camp. Looking on he was astonished to find them all finish eating, train and not complaining about it. He was also surprised to see a bowl left out for him. Walking over to the tent he sat down and observed. That Pikachu was ridiculously strong for its size. Watching on he was desperate to find something he could use against the trainer to prove he was just like the others but couldn't find anything. He corrected movements without being harsh, he praised very little but wasn't uncaring. Surely, he must have some kind of weakness. Looking around he saw Eevee headbutting a tree repeatedly, this was his 'in' he decided walking over. He didn't notice the rest quietly observe him while still training.

"Why is your trainer making you headbutt the tree? Did you do something wrong? Is this how he punishes disobedience" Squirtle asked not seeing Bulbasaur wrap a vine round Charmanders hand to stop him interfering. Nodding they continued their training but didn't stop listening in.

"Oh, no" Eevee said smiling "I'm trying to perfect my Headbutt so I can move on to the next move to learn. Ash went through a list of the moves I need to learn before he gives me to his mother."

"He's getting rid of you?" Squirtle asked angrily.

"Oh no" Eevee said "I was caught to be given to his mother anyway. I knew that before I let him catch me as he made it clear that he would like his mother to have some company now he's not there. His mother sounds like a wonderful person. Ash promised training and a family which he has delivered on. He never asked me to train more than I wanted to but he's always full of ideas and welcomes fresh perspectives. I learned to use Headbutt without him asking me to and I've learned so much in the few weeks I've been here. He's amazing."

Grumbling at not getting the answer he was looking for he began to think of a new way to put Ash in a bad light. That was until Eevee continued smiling lightly "I know what you're doing by the way. You looked at Pikachu and saw you'd get nowhere, you likely looked at Charmander and Bulbasaur and saw the same. Then there's little old me, a young female Eevee and you probably thought I'd be the easiest to sway to your side. Only you never accounted for the fact that I adore Ash for what he's done for me. I've met your kind before." She finished turning back to the tree and preparing to Headbutt it again "It never ends well you know." She said giving him a look "that anger you have; I know that feeling. Holding on to it just leaves you a shell of a Pokémon. A word of advice; don't bother trying to get the others to go against Ash. Bulbasaur chose to follow Ash after years of isolation, Charmanders literal life was saved by Ash and Pikachu would die before betraying Ash. I was your best bet, and it was never going to happen" with that she carried on training and ignored Squirtle who was left to wander back to the camp site.

The next few days saw no change in Squirtle, but Ash continued on with his journey. He was getting a bit tired of walking so seeing a signpost for Bills Lighthouse made him feel very relieved. Walking up to the door he rang the bell but received no answer. Cautiously opening the door, he made his way inside. Having a look around he still couldn't find Bill. Sam did say he was home when he rang him the day before to explain where four of his five new captures had disappeared to. Hearing he had helped the Fire Brigade have four new recruits made Sam very happy. His mother said the same and was delighted to soon receive Eevee. Cleffa was doing very well, still very skittish around the house whenever company came over but overall, her progress was very good.

Coming to a large room Ash walked up to the wall at the end where he saw a massive mural on the wall. Looking up he noticed that it depicted all the Pokémon that had been recorded in Kanto. Ash hadn't seen even half of them yet on his journey. It made him realise to call yourself a master was not an easy thing.

"Impressive, isn't it?" a voice said behind Ash startling him. Turning around he had to do a double take as it appeared a giant talking Pokémon was speaking to him.

"Er, Pikachu" Ash asked uncertainly "is it me or is a giant Kabuto talking to us?"

"It's not just you Ash" Pikachu said sparking his cheeks in a warning.

"Oh no," the Kabuto said pleasantly "I'm not a Pokémon. I'm a professor and a Pokemaniac. My job is to try and get inside the mind of a Pokémon, to understand their physiology and the way they lived. To do so I often dress up as them and live as them for a few hours. I'm afraid though that I made an error with this costume. You see, I'm trapped. Kabuto arms are too short so I cannot reach the button to release me. I'm so grateful you've come along. Could you press the button for me" it finished as it turned around. Sure enough there was a button on the nape of its neck. Pressing it Ash watched as the Kabuto costume folded in on itself as it revealed a man who was sweating profusely.

"Thank you" he said "I feared I would be stuck in there forever. My name is Bill, a pleasure to meet you".

"Ash, Ash Ketchum" Ash said holding out his hand not expecting the vigorous handshake in response.

"Oh, my word! It's really you! I'm a massive fan of your work." Bill said fumbling his words "I read your paper on the mating rituals of a Charizard and was fascinated to learn they mate for life. Of course, I knew that the Charicific Valley specialised in training them and it's usually where starter eggs come from but still, to learn trainers Pokémon have the exact same habits was fascinating."

"Yeah" Ash said feeling much more comfortable with the topic than an eleven-year-old usually would "I cross-examined various accounts from people that leave their Charizard to be trained there, or the wild ones that rule it with several trainers 'tame' Charizard to see what they concluded. It was pretty fascinating to be honest. I think Oaks Charizard is the only one I've met that has a different pattern. He and his mate go up into the mountains near Viridian where they have their own nest. Most trainers though either don't let their Charizard mate or don't know they mate for life and try to breed with them. I heard some nutcase used a Ditto once to try and breed for eggs."

"Yeah, I remember that case" Bill said shaking his head "I'm genuinely surprised they were allowed to keep their day-care after that. Anyway Ash, Sam told me you were coming so I arranged a surprise for you. Come, it only happens at night though, so we have time to kill."

Several hours later Bill led Ash up to the top of his lighthouse where a huge megaphone was sitting on a stand pointing out at the sea. Wondering what was going on he asked Bill.

"Well Ash, not long ago I was standing on the clifftop looking out at the water when I heard a call echo from across the sea. It was unlike anything I have ever heard of before or since and by the time I had set up a recording device the call had stopped. Luckily it happened again a few months later only this time I was able to record it. So, every night for the past few weeks I've been playing the call out to the sea and last night I received an answer back! I'm hoping that tonight when I play it you would be able to hear it too. Maybe we will finally be able to see whatever it is! I usually start the call at sunset, which is why I have seats up here."

With that Bill started to play the call. It sounded like a whale to Ash, but there was also something very familiar about it. For the life of him though he couldn't place it. Deciding to sit and chat while they waited was a very interesting experience for them both. Ash was fascinated by Bills research and Ash being able to communicate with Pokémon left Bill feeling a bit envious. It was around 11pm when they were going to give up, as deep fog had swept across the ocean when Ash heard something.

Standing up quickly startled Pikachu but he was perched on the railing looking out to sea as soon as the voice was returned. They silently observed the fog, it was very thick but being on high alert was a common thing for Ash. Pulsing out his aura he was amazed at what he received back.

"Bloody hell" Ash whispered "whatever that is out there is huge. Easily the biggest thing I've ever felt. Its aura is immense. Pikachu don't attack. We have no chance. Bill, play the call again."

Doing so Bill was amazed by how quickly the call was returned. Getting a sudden source of inspiration Ash pulled out his Pokedex and scanned the fog. After several minutes it finally bleeped to life

"Dragonite, Pokédex Number 149, The Dragon Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. It is said that somewhere in the ocean lies an island where these gather. Only they live there. An extremely rarely seen marine Pokémon. Its intelligence is said to match that of humans. This Pokémon is the biggest of its species ever recorded at 42 feet high."

"Wow, I knew I'd heard that call before" Ash said, "Oaks Dragonite sounds the same only not as deep."

"A Dragonite?" Bill asked astounded "after all this time it's a Dragonite? Simply amazing"

"It really is" Ash said agreeing. Walking to the edge of the balcony he cupped his hands and shouted "why don't you come and greet us Dragonite? We promise you we mean you no harm".

After several minutes of nothing a shape made its presence known in the fog before it entered their line of sight. It was colossal Ash thought but it was no less magnificent. He called out the rest of his family who simply stood there in awe.

"You're amazing" Ash said out loud "Look at how breath-taking you are" holding out his pokegear he took a few pictures of her. "There you go Bill. You've finally met the originator of the call."

"Are you who's been calling out to me?" Dragonite asked shocking Ash "I can feel your Aura Chosen One."

"No, my lady" Ash said "it was my companion who has been doing that. He had no idea what you were when he did it. He simply desired to meet whoever was calling".

"I did" Bill said taking over "I was intrigued by something I have never heard before when I first heard your call. And now that I see you, I am not any less impressed. As Ash said you're breath taking."

"What were you calling for my Lady?" Ash asked, "who do you seek?"

"My family young Chosen One" she replied sounding sad "I have been searching for them for such a long time now. But I cannot give up hope, I will not."

"But you're so big" Bill said after Ash translated "where could they hide if they're your size?"

"You forget Bill" Ash said gently "Dragonite has remained hidden for all this time, it's not a stretch to think they're somewhere in the world also hidden. I think I recall now where I have read about you Dragonite. There are ruins just west of where I grew up where Pokémon were said to reside centuries ago but mysteriously disappeared. I believe they were giant Pokémon also. If you like I could try and find out for you?"

"Oh, would you?" Dragonite asked sounding hopeful "I do so miss my family."

"I will" Ash said "when I get to the next Pokémon centre I will try and find out more information that I will send to Bill. I'm sure he won't mind trying to research your family's location for you. We cannot guarantee we will find them though. Not much is known about the ruins other than they mysteriously disappeared."

"I will happily do that" Bill said, "if you'd like to check in every now and then on me, I will tell you what I find out?"

"Thank you" Dragonite said sounding relieved "I'm afraid I must go now. The sun is arriving soon. Thank you Chosen One" with that Dragonite turned around and made her way back to the depths of the ocean where she disappeared.

"Wow" was all they could say for the next hour before they went to sleep. Waking up in the afternoon Ash readied to leave. Before he left though Bill gave him a gift. "It's an Everstone. You mentioned you wanted one for Eevee last night. They're particularly hard to find and if you ordered one in Vermillion there's no guarantee you'd get it before you left to head back to Cerulean. I'm afraid I don't have a Light Ball though. You'll have to find one of those yourself."

"Thanks Bill" Ash said happily. "I'll pick up a necklace in Vermillion for Eevee. I'll send you the information I find as soon as I can. I think it's Pokemopolis or Pokelantis but for the life of me I can't recall which one. As soon as I find out I'll let you know. See you later Bill."

Later that night they set up camp and discussed what had happened the night before. "I think I can safely say that I never in my wildest imagination thought I'd see one of the Ancients" Pikachu said.

"Ancients?" Ash asked, "if you knew what she was why didn't you say anything?"

"I assumed you knew" Pikachu said "you're pretty knowledgeable after all. And you did say you had heard of their location."

"Yeah, but I couldn't recall much about them" Ash said exasperatedly "tell me about them."

"Well, Royal Pokémon are said to be their descendants that have survived from their time." Pikachu began "we've seen how big they are when we met Pidgeotto and Pidgeot in Viridian Forest. The Ancients were once revered as Gods because of their size and power. They used to basically rule over their location and had offspring with the local Pokémon. Don't ask me how, the mechanics of it boggle my mind but eventually they had amassed such a following of Pokémon and humans alike that their original territory was no longer big enough to sustain them. Like anywhere today really, expansion became a must. And the only other places available were other Gods territories.

So, they began to war amongst themselves, and thousands died. The human settlers of the time were swept up in the war, they either chose a side or perished. Many did both. It finally reached a point where the humans had enough though. It's not fun realising you're powerless against a stronger foe so they came up with several plans in secret. They realised that to put an end to the wars the Gods must go. So, they concocted plans to capture them and contain them. Up until that point Pokémon lived where they wanted, there was no such things as Pokéballs and Pokémon battled for territories not for fun. That soon changed when people realised that they could capture and control Pokémon to do their bidding. And so, they did in masses. While technology was primitive it was still effective. Anyway, plans to capture and seal away the Gods happened, and many were captured and then killed. Its not a well-known fact, and we try not to let it be known but if you destroy a Pokéball while a Pokémon is inside, they die. It's why a lot of Pokémon are reluctant to follow Arceus' law, which to me is perfectly understandable.

Back to Giant Pokémon. Dragonite might seem like a nice Pokémon, but she grew up in a time where she was worshipped. I was on edge the entire time she was there Ash because of this. Finding her family might not be such a good thing."

"She called him the Chosen One though" Charmander piped up "that means she knows of Arceus' will and wouldn't dare do anything against Ash."

"Not every Pokémon is happy with Arceus' edicts Charmander" Bulbasaur said "I know a lot of wild Pokémon who have real hatred for humans because of the restrictions that are placed on us upon capture. We've all felt the negative side of it. We never got to choose our trainer and therefore had no choice in what we could do. Up until our release we were stuck with who we had for life, which was a miserable existence for us all. I can certainly see why Pokémon have such issues about being captured."

"And I agree" Pikachu said "but I've not had the misfortune of having a bad trainer so I cannot really comment on that. Everyone else here has so your thoughts and feelings would always come before mine on that subject. But to Dragonite they would willingly rally around her should she ask and would happily fight to avoid capture. All I'm saying is to be careful if you find her family. The chances of her finding them AND living a peaceful life when she does is very slim."

"I shall take it under consideration Pikachu" Ash said leaning back against the tent "it's a tough decision isn't it. I'd given my word to her and Bill before I knew this. Had I known would it have changed anything? Possibly not as she was desperate for a family. Her Aura wasn't bad either but as you said she was around at a time when she ruled. It's certainly thought provoking, isn't it?"

"It is" Pikachu said as they descended into silence. An hour later Ash decided to break the silence.

"Tomorrow evening at the latest we will arrive in Vermillion City. We will likely be there for around a week before I challenge the gym. After which I will send you to my mother Eevee. I want to thank you for doing this. I know you desired to be with me. And maybe someday you will re-join us but for now I need you to protect my mother. So, for the next week I will be training you all a bit harder seeing as the Pokémon centre is where we'll be staying and any injuries can be quickly healed. I want you all to have mastered all the moves you know before I challenge Lt Surge. I will also be releasing Squirtle before we leave" he finished shocking them all.

"Why?" Charmander asked "you told me that you wanted all the starter Pokémon."

"And I do" Ash said matter-of-factly turning to Squirtle "with you my team is complete for now. But I have no desire to have a Pokémon who has no loyalty to us all. We fight together and lose together. You only think about yourself so far and have not spoken a word to me since the day I caught you. We've had you four days now and you have given me no indication that you want to stay, and I will not keep a Pokémon against their will. I will speak to Nurse Joy when we reach Vermillion about sending you to a Pokémon reserve where hopefully you get to choose your next trainer. I cannot guarantee that but at least you can hide in the reserve until you're caught again."

Standing up Ash began to get ready for bed. The rest of Ash's Pokémon did the same thing. Squirtle however never moved from the campfire.

Chapter 9: Chapter 9- Vermillion City

Chapter Text

Chapter 9- Vermillion

Vermillion really was a beautiful place to visit Ash decided the day after getting there. They had arrived the previous night and after a long bath had conked out as soon as his head hit the pillow. Walking around the harbour he noticed a lot of people setting for what looked like some kind of event. Stopping a random person, they told him that Lt Surge had organised a mini tournament for that weekend where a fabulous prize was being offered. No one knew what the prize was just yet but the top two would receive something. Chatting to his Pokémon he decided that he would enter, at least to see where they were up to battle wise because so far, they had swept everyone they had come across since Brocks Golem. That was going on for two months now and it was irritating.

After the discussion about Bill, it had quickly turned to the upcoming battle with Lt Surge "we're in danger of becoming arrogant" Ash had said to them, "and that leads to cockiness, which leads to loss. I don't mind us losing, it shows us where we need to improve but cockiness creates arrogance in people. And I don't like that."

So, a tournament with hopefully strong opponents was just what Ash needed right now. He planned to rotate his team throughout the battles. Hopefully they would all get a turn. That grand prize sounded intriguing so that night Ash called all his Pokémon into a mini meeting.

"I've been thinking about what you said Pikachu about the Ancients" he started "and I've come to a sort of decision. I'm going to inform Sam and my mother about what was said, and we'll make a decision together. As you said Pikachu, I've given her my word and you don't do that to an Ancient without retribution happening should you not. Hopefully between us we can come up with a solution. I don't think we'll survive an all-out war again against Ancients, the Royals and the disgruntled Pokémon. Those afraid of Arceus' edicts will surely rally to them and I don't want to be the cause of that."

"I think that's a wise decision" Pikachu said "at least then people who are able to do something like Sam would be in the know and you wouldn't be on your own. Maybe get Bill involved as well so he can have input as it'll be falling on him to let Dragonite know."

"Good point, I hadn't thought of that" Ash said.

"Would you tell her" Squirtle asked surprising them all "if you found out where her family was would you tell her?"

"I would have to consider the implications of what would happen Squirtle" Ash said seriously "but everyone deserves a family and if I can help her find hers then I wouldn't feel that bad about helping. It's the aftermath I'm more worried about."

"Your course of action is probably best for all for now" Bulbasaur said gaining the nodding head agreement of everyone else.

The next day he called Sam and his mum to arrange a meeting for that evening and sent an email to Bill. The most beneficial part about having Professor status was the room. It came with a conference call TV screen so many could join in at the same time. At 7:30 Ash made the call, while all his Pokémon sat on the bed behind him listening in and one by one they all joined. The last to join was Bill.

"Hello everyone" Ash began "I'm aware I'm likely the only one with a conference call TV so let me introduce Bill to everyone. You already know of Sam Oak, the other person on the call is my mother. Now the reason she is in this call is because she tells it to me straight and we have an agreement that while I'm out traveling to let her know when anything serious happens." After a round of "Hellos" Ash continued "now the reason for this call is because of what happened the other day at Bills lighthouse. I needed time to figure out what I was going to do and decided the best course of action was to have us all decide together."

"That sounds serious Ash" Sam said "ok, what can we help with."

"Bill and I found an Ancient" Ash said.

"Do not joke about that Ash" Sam said uncharacteristically serious "please tell me you are kidding."

"Unfortunately not Professor" Ash said.

"Tell me you never promised it anything" Sam said.

"Sadly, I did. In my defence I didn't know what it was when I did so" Ash replied grimly

"Erm" Delia interrupted them "can someone let us mortals know what an Ancient is."

"Your choice of the word mortal is quite apt here Delia" Sam said "the Ancients are a species of Pokémon that were once revered as Gods. Said to be descendants of Legendary Pokémon they ruled their area and were worshipped by the inhabitants. They also bred with the Pokémon they ruled and in doing so created armies that were steadfastly loyal. But as you know the more people that inhabit an area the faster the natural resources are consumed, and expansion becomes a priority and so fights broke out between warring Ancients for territory. Ancient Pokémon are directly responsible for the last mass extinction, a hundred thousand humans and Pokémon died in the space of eighty years. I believe we've only just got back to around those numbers in the last two centuries."

"Yup" Ash said "I only found out what it was when Pikachu told me that night. Wild-born Pokémon grow up on these stories as cautionary tales. Arceus' edicts are mandatory for all Pokémon and humans and we only live in harmony NOW because we came to an understanding a few centuries ago. But there are a lot who don't like the thought of being captured and have no choice but to obey. A lot of Pokémon are extremely resentful that if they get caught by a bad trainer then they're stuck with them for life in a miserable situation. I have four Pokémon here that were in that exact situation until I rescued them and if I wasn't around would happily rally around the nearest banner fighting against their oppression. And this ties in to the Ancient we found and to Bill."

"Yes" Bill said taking over "for the last few months I've been hearing a call from across the ocean. I recorded it and sent it back out every night and around a week ago I received an answer while Ash was visiting my lighthouse. It turns out it was a 42-foot Dragonite who was searching for her family every night and has been for centuries by her account."

"And you promised to find her family" Delia said sadly "didn't you Ash?"

"I did" Ash said sighing "As I said I didn't know what she was. I'd heard of Royals who are bigger than normal Pokémon, we've even met two in Viridian Forest. And I'd heard of Pokémon that were giant centuries ago in a few of the books in Sam's lab, but all the accounts said they were extinct, so I didn't think much of it. It was only after meeting her that Pikachu informed me that if Dragonite is still around then some of the others could still be around too. And if I help Dragonite find them then a war might happen again. And while a family reunion is a happy thing, I don't want to be responsible for thousands of Pokémon and humans dying."

"But Dragonite seemed so sweet" Bill said interrupting "she has been lonely for centuries; she deserves a family".

"Bill" Sam said shaking his head "no one is suggesting otherwise but I suggest you read Ash's thesis Lance uses to teach his classes on dragon Pokémon. They are not normal Pokémon. There's a reason not many people use dragon types as they are wired extremely different than most types. They're machines, they train to the bone and have a thirst to be the best no matter the cost and if they don't respect you as a trainer then they will find someone else. They're the only Pokémon I've ever known to willingly ignore Arceus' edicts and survive.

You're not stupid Bill, you've read up on Pokémon. Gyarados have been known to destroy towns in blind rages, Dragonite could level several cities should they lose their heads. Hydriegon cannot be stopped without them being killed if they decide to go on a rampage. And now we've got a 42-foot Dragonite roaming around the world in search of her family. What do you think would happen should she decide that searching the oceans isn't enough and decides land would be a better choice? How many people do you think would be happy to see her wandering around. A person on their own can make a smart decision. People in groups are stupid and follow the herd and if the leader is a nutcase, then all rationale gets thrown out of the window. This is a 42-foot Dragon type. You're lucky to be alive Bill."

"Well, we're lucky that we don't know where they are then" Delia said, "aren't we?"

"Yeah, about that" Ash said, "I think I know where they might be."

"You're thinking about Pokemopolis and Pokelantis aren't you, Ash?" Sam asked, "and the ruins just outside of Pallet Town" seeing Ash nod had Sam grimly smiling "I'm afraid we have no real choice here then. We need to inform her that we may have found them. What I'll do before we do so is arrange an excavation group to thoroughly search Pokemopolis and find anything that may be related to her family. We'll do the same for Pokelantis at the same time. We need to be in control of the Pokémon or at least in control of whatever controls them should there be any there. We cannot let them out. All we can do is let Dragonite know that we've been uncovering clues. At least until the team leaves the site before Dragonite visits it. That way while we've been truthful, we've also been part of deceit and prevented a world war."

"I don't like this Sam" Delia said, "we're knowingly denying a Pokémon a family."

"I'm not thrilled about this either Delia" Sam said "but what other choice do we have? While we have no proof that a war will start, we have no proof to reject such an argument. Any Pokémon that has remained sealed in the ruins will awaken and still believe they're at war. They won't know centuries have passed by. We cannot risk it."

"So, what's the plan of action?" Bill asked leaning back "I'm the one that will be giving frequent updates to Dragonite after all."

"Well from what I can see" Ash said taking over "it all depends on how frequent Dragonite visits you. If its once every few months, then that makes it easier. We'll provide you with information every now and then about a possible location, we'll try to drag it out as long as we can and while that's going on Sam will have two teams excavate the area around Pallet Town ruins. I can't see her letting it go on for a year so by that time we need the ruins done in six months so she can visit them. We also need to leave no trace we've been there recently, or she'll suspect her family may have been found and moved, after which there's no telling what she may do. Or tell her that we have a team digging the area looking for clues. That may make her decide to pay the team a visit though which could be dangerous. I suggest Sam that you inform Lance and have him build a team of people specially designed for taking down an Ancient, should it come to that. Hopefully it doesn't but prepare for the worst and all that."

"That seems like a good idea" Sam said "I'll start sending emails right away and keep you updated on progress Bill. I'll speak soon Ash; Bill I'll keep in touch. Delia, I'll see you tomorrow?" Bill nodded and ended the call.

"You will Sam" Delia said clearly still unhappy "Ash, stay on the line, I want to talk to you."

"Don't be too harsh on him Delia" Sam said, "he wasn't to know."

"I'm his mother Sam" she replied firmly "I know how to parent my own child."

"I didn't suggest otherwise" Sam said gently before hanging up leaving just Delia and Ash. Looking at her nervously he waited on her to start. After years of being so close Ash knew that his mother was trying to formulate what she wanted to say

"First of all, I'm very proud of you for informing us all about what happened. And I'm also very proud of you for wanting to make a difference in a Pokémon's life."

"Everyone deserves a family mum" Ash said quietly.

"Do not interrupt Ash" she said sharply rebuking him "I am very aware of what having a broken family can do. And I'm very aware of what coming from a broken home has done for you and how you feel when you meet a Pokémon that is in the same situation. I truly wish it were otherwise but unfortunately those Team Rocket scumbags took your father away from us and in doing so shaped our views on the world. But you need to realise Ash that you're my world, and your actions have consequences that could take you away from me. You cannot save everyone Ash, and promising things you have no way of delivering is a sure-fire way of creating resentment towards you. And given what your task is you're already in danger of doing so and it bloody terrifies me" wiping away tears she carried on "I have no issue with you being the caring person you are towards Pokémon, but you need to stop and think about a situation before you give someone or some Pokémon your word when you have no way of guaranteeing you'll be able to deliver. You're lucky that Sam has the connections he does to be able to try and prevent a war that you could have inadvertently caused. Now I'll say no more about it, but I want you to think on about your decisions. Very soon you'll have to stand by everything you decide and won't be able to rely on anyone else digging you out of trouble. I'm going to go now Ash. I love you very much. Good night" and with that Delia hung up leaving a very tense silence. Standing up Ash walked over to the bed and lay down.

"I know that she's right guys" Ash said covering his eyes "I know how colossal a mistake my promise could have been, and still very well might be. I'm very lucky that Sam can try and fix things because we're in no position to do anything at the minute. We're still rookies with just one badge. At the minute we're nothing. I just can't help myself when it comes to Pokémon. They've been the only thing I knew I loved, apart from my mum since I was three years old and the only thing I knew I'd be good at. There's a reason I gravitated towards you guys. I have this unending need to fix things and I don't know why."

"I do" Bulbasaur said "because I had the same issue before I decided to travel with you. It's the only way you know you truly make a difference because the results are clear to see. You only need to look around the room to see what difference you as our trainer has been. Eevee is no longer the shy little fox who was terrified of her own tail, Charmander has a renewed thirst for life and battling and you help him with that when at one point in his life he was on the verge of death, I was content to be a guardian for Pokémon in my village but in doing so I prevented them from finding their own place in the world along with myself. I can't comment on Squirtle as he hasn't talked much about his issues but it's clear that he was abandoned and hopefully the mistrust of humans can go away with you as his trainer."

"I won't be his trainer for much longer" Ash said, "Nurse Joy has said she'll find a reserve for him."

"Well maybe you should give each other a chance" Charmander said looking between them "he won't find a better trainer than you I can guarantee that. And you can help him realise that not all humans are bad".

"Well, that's up to him" Ash said sitting up looking at Squirtle "my mother was righter than even we knew just as she always is. I cannot save everyone, and I've not really given you a chance. But on the flip side you've not given me one either. So, I'll give you the choice. By the time we leave here you'll either be my Pokémon or you'll go to the nature reserve. Should you go to the reserve I will wish you well and we'll likely never see each other again. Should you be my Pokémon though you'll become family. I will warn you though, we don't do a quid-pro-quo thing in our family" seeing his confused face he clarified it "we don't do a 'I've done this for you, so you have to do this for me' thing. We do things for each other because were family and it's the right thing to do. So, if that's your thought process let me know and I'll send you to the reserve. If not, I'll train you to be the best you can be. I suggest you talk more to the others to find out our goals and my thoughts on any issues you may have. It's late guys. Let's get ready for bed.

The next day Ash headed to the tournament to put his name forward. It was a basic 32-person tournament in brackets. So, Ash needed five wins to get the prize. It sounded simple enough to Ash so he talked to his team about what order they would go in. Eevee would start, followed by Bulbasaur, then Charmander and lastly Pikachu for the last two to ensure victory. As Squirtle hadn't been scanned let alone trained he had to use one of them twice. Walking onto the field after hearing his name called, he faced off against the opposing trainer. They sent out a Geodude. Should be easy.

"Let's go Eevee" Ash called out as the little fox entered the battlefield "Ignore the crowd Eevee, focus on the opponent."

"You're sending that little runt against my Geodude?" the guy mocked "your funeral. Geodude let's finish this quick. Use Rollout" with that the Geodude began spinning rapidly in place before launching itself at Eevee.

"Quick Attack to get out of the way" Ash shouted, "It's not very fast just yet so we'll let him build up speed."

"That's an idiotic move, but what else can we expect from someone who sends an Eevee in against a Geodude. Geodude, smash the little runt" the man crowed.

"Not yet Eevee" Ash said. He had trained with Eevee using Pikachu as a fast Pokémon to establish a style. She knew what Ash was doing and focused on just dodging out of the way, waiting for the right moment to strike. After a minute of waiting Geodude was getting really fast, so Ash kept quiet.

"Now Eevee, you know what to do." and without missing a beat just as Geodude flashed by her she swung her tail at it, covered it in a metallic sheen and launched it into the wall where it was stuck, face first. Eevee just walked back over to Ash's side where she nonchalantly sat down.

"What the hell?" the man shouted looking around bewildered "what just happened?"

"The winner is Ash" the referee said as Ash didn't say a word and walked off the field with Eevee who jumped onto his shoulder. "Good show Eevee" Ash said scratching her head. "Bulbasaur next"

Around half an hour later he walked back onto the field "and here comes Ash who made short work of his first opponent with his Eevee. Will he stick with her or change?" the referee said.

"Let's go" Ash said releasing Bulbasaur who landed on the field and tested it with his feet. Nodding back at Ash, he readied himself for whoever was released.

"Interesting" his opponent said as she released an Ivysaur.

"Well look at this" the referee said "it's the evolution showdown. How will this one pan out"

"Interesting indeed" Ash said scanning the Ivysaur "Ivysaur, Pokedex Number 2, The Seed Pokémon and the evolved form of Bulbasaur. This Pokémon is Female. When the bulb on its back grows large, it appears to lose the ability to stand on its hind legs. The bulb on its back grows by drawing energy. It gives off an aroma when it is ready to bloom."

"Hmm we can work with that Bulbasaur. Let's start out with a Tackle" and Bulbasaur launched himself forward at a speed that surprised the rest. Slamming into the Ivysaur before his opponent could react who was thrown backwards wincing as it got up.

"Razor Leaf" his opponent shouted clearly agitated.

"Vine Whip them and then close in Bulbasaur" and he did just that swiping the leaves out of the air. Ash already saw that Bulbasaur was stronger than his opponent given the size and sharpness of the leaves it launched. "Now Bulbasaur use your vines to launch yourself in the air and use Stun Spore" doing just that he amazed the crowd by doing a complete 180 over the head of Ivysaur who was stunned in awe before it was paralysed by the Stun Spore. Landing Bulbasaur quickly turned around and picked up the Ivysaur in its vines before launching it across the field. Ivysaur struggled to get to its feet, clearly battered and bruised before looking up to see a charging Bulbasaur hit it head on and throw it backwards where it passed out.

"Bulbasaur wins the battle" the referee said as Ash recalled Bulbasaur, said "Good battle" and walked off the field. The girl was still just standing there in shock until the referee urged her to leave the arena. How the hell did a Bulbasaur beat her Ivysaur? And what was with that leap? She would have to practice that one with Ivysaur. Looking for him she was amazed to find him just calmly sitting watching the next battle. Sitting beside him she wondered what to say.

"It was a decent battle. Thank you" Ash said surprising her "for weeks now we've beaten everyone that's been put in our way so don't feel bad."

"But how are you so strong?" she asked.

"Training until we drop and a good diet for recovery" Ash said "as I said, don't feel bad. In a years' time I'll be lifting the winner's trophy at the league"

"That's very cocky" she said huffing "an attitude like that is never a good thing."

"You're right" Ash said surprising her "we entered this competition hoping to lose as we haven't lost in two months now and that was against a Gym Leaders Elite Pokémon. We're very aware of what arrogance can do. We want to lose to show us how far we have yet to go but looking at this competition though I fear that's unlikely. Your Ivysaur was good, Bulbasaur was just better. Oh, it looks like I'm up again soon. Nice talking to you" he said standing up leaving her in silence, unaware a man was standing off to the left hidden in the shadows listening to every word.

Charmander demolished the next Pokémon. His opponent had the bright idea to use a Koffing so Charmander exploded it using its own noxious gasses leaving Ash shaking his head but in the semi-finals.

"And we come to our second semi-final match between Ash and Tabitha. John has already booked his way into the final with his powerful Dragonair. Who will join him?" The referee said.

"Let's go Parasect" Tabitha said releasing a mushroom like Pokémon. Ash scanned it. "Parasect, Pokedex Number 47, The Mushroom Pokémon. This Pokémon is male. A host-parasite pair in which the parasite mushroom has taken over the host bug. Prefers damp places."

"Let's go Pi" Ash said as Pikachu jumped onto the field. "You can have the first move" Ash said.

"A mistake. Spore" she said. Ash had seen her tactic in action. Put the opponents Pokémon to sleep and then slashes away until it faints. It was very effective and was very frustrating. Well, Ash wouldn't allow that. "Let's not mess around Pikachu, Thunderbolt, quarter power."

At that an arc of electricity flew through the air and impacted on the Parasect causing it to screech in pain and halt trying to release the sleeping powder. "Ramp it up Pi, half power" and Pikachu did just that causing it to begin to frazzle and smoulder.

"Parasect you must get away" his trainer said franticly as her Pokémon began to topple over.

"Stop Pi" Ash commanded "it's over."

It was over. It was brutal, some would say too brutal, but Ash knew that in a Pokémon battle it was the trainer's fault if they lost. Shaking his head Ash walked off the field while an emergency nurse came rushing over to tend to the Parasect. Sitting down he was joined by a huge man with spiky yellow hair "that's some power your Pikachu has" he said. "a little harsh, wasn't it?"

Looking up Ash immediately recognised him as Lt Surge. Not showing he knew who he was he answered "He really is. He has dreams of putting Raichu's to shame and is well on his way of doing just that. It's a pity we haven't had a decent challenge yet in this tournament, hopefully the next trainer will be better. And no, if a trainer refuses to see their Pokémon is overmatched then that's on them. I've been staying at the Pokémon centre for the last few days and had to watch morons with Pidgeys, Rattatas and even Seels coming in in critical condition because they stupidly challenged Lt Surge with them."

"So, you don't agree that he's been too harsh on them? Too brutal?" Surge asked.

"Not at all. Some people forget the golden rule of battling. If you win it's the Pokémon that won, if you lose it's because of the trainer." Ash said decisively "if you're stupid enough to send a Pidgey up against an electric type like Lt Surges Raichu then you need to have your trainers licence revoked. Those things can topple elephants with its moves, what do they think having a type disadvantage will do to a 3lb bird? So no, I believe he's teaching them the right lesson. Battling is serious business and if you're an idiot like they are then you have no business being a trainer. Now, I have a tournament to win. It was nice chatting to you Mr" Ash said standing up and walking out to the arena leaving behind a very thoughtful gym leader.

"And now we come to the final. Ash Ketchum vs John Dickson. John has reached the final and used his Dragonair every round, meanwhile Ash has used a different Pokémon each time and demolished his semi-final opponent with one brutal move. This one isn't easy to decide. Trainers, release your Pokémon" and with that John released his Dragonair with a cocky smile. Ash scanned it with his Pokedex "Dragonair, Pokedex Number 148, The Dragon Pokémon, and the evolved form of Dratini. According to a witness, its body was surrounded by a strange aura that gave it a mystical look. It has the ability to change climate conditions."

"You may have beat losers before getting here Ash, but this is where your tournament ends" John said.

"Of course, this is where it ends, moron. This is the final. There are no more battles after this" Ash said shaking his head sadly causing the crowd to laugh. Johns' demeanour changed from cocky to angry in an instant "for that I'll demolish you".

Laughing Ash simply said, "let's go Pi". And Pikachu jumped onto the field. He knew that this would be a different battle than any he had faced before.

"Dragonair, lets finish this quickly. Use Ice Beam" John said.

"Split it with Iron Tail Pi" Ash said in reply and the crowd were amazed that he did just that. Pikachu sent the ice either side of him and charged towards.

"Thunderbolt, half power" Ash said as Pikachu launched a lightning bolt at the Dragonair who lit up.

"Quickly use your own Thunderbolt Dragonair" John shouted shocked. Luckily his Pokémon could hear him and used its move which nullified Pikachu's move. The damage was quite clear to see though on Dragonair as little sparks danced over its skin. Without warning though Dragonair twisted in mid air as a blue aura shone on it and when it stopped it looked refreshed. "Shed Skin" John said cockily. "Now use Dragon Rage" a massive Blue/green ball formed in front of Dragonair who launched it at Pikachu who didn't seem to be able to move out of the way quick enough and was clipped on his side sending him flying. "Agility into Flamethrower Dragonair" as it did a strange dance and became sleeker and faster before launching a flame at Pikachu.

"Thunderbolt to counter Pikachu. This match is over" Pikachu launched a bolt at the Dragonair which went straight through the flame and lit up the dragon Pokémon causing it to screech and halt in place. "Stop Pikachu". Without wondering why, he did so and waited on his next command. Looking over to the referee Ash said "Well?" who looking clueless waited for Ash to elaborate. Ash looked over at John and smirked "that was five moves he used in battle".

"Ok?" John said confused "and?"

"Well, if this is an official battle the league rules state that no more than four moves can be used in a battle. You can teach your Pokémon as many as you like but no more than four can be used. You used five. That's an automatic disqualification" Ash said smiling. Immediately the crowd exploded into chatter while the referee looked at the rule book. Looking up at John the referee said "I'm afraid he's right. Dragonair is disqualified from battle. The winner is Ash Ketchum." Immediately John began to protest, but the referee held firm. Rules were rules.

"Shame really" Ash said walking up to John holding out his hand "that was a good battle."

Slapping it away John walked off to his side to sit down fuming. Ash merely shook his head and walked over to his seat.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, after a fabulous day of battles we present to you the winner, Ash Ketchum. In second place we have John Dickson. Give them both a round of applause. Now onto the prizes. To John we present to you a set of 4 evolution stones. Now to Ash, we give you a set of the same stones, a winner's trophy AND two tickets for first class on our very own SS Anne!" at that the crowd exploded into applause. The SS Anne was the most famous liner in the world. It was famed for its opulence. It also attracted trainers and sellers from all over the world, so Ash was really pleased with that. You never know, he might be able to find Pikachu a Light Ball. Muttering so only Ash could hear John said "enjoy it while you can Ketchum, you won on a technicality and we both know it" snorting Ash muttered back "please, it's not my fault you can't count. And Pikachu was easily beating you, we hadn't gone past half power with his electricity. If you want another battle, just ask. If not, I suggest you go, train and I'll see you at the league" Ash said walking off leaving a fuming John who swore he'd get revenge.

Looking at his tickets he saw they weren't for another three months. That was plenty of time Ash decided to get Vermillion and Ceruleans badge, travel to the Power Plant and be back here in time for the cruise. Making a decision Ash left his Pokémon with Joy and went to his room to make a call.

Picking up at the second dial Ash saw the face of his mother "Hello Ash" Delia said smiling. What can I do for you?"

"Well to start with I wanted to apologise to you." Holding his hand up to stall her reply he saw her frown. Delia isn't someone you shush "please mum, I need to say this. Ever since I received my mission off Arceus I've been living in a bit of a dream world. Being told you've been created to save the world leaves a bit of an impression on you. And for all I tell my Pokémon I can't abide arrogance I seem to be doing a lot of arrogant things. I knew straight away last night that what you said saw true, every word. However, I can only promise I will try and temper what I say and do so with more caution and think things through more. Arceus may have created me, but you gave birth to me, and I'll be eternally grateful to you for being my mother. I love you very much mum."

Smiling tearily Delia said "thank you Ash. It's very difficult being a mother, doubly so when you know you have no say in your child's life because a God has chosen them for greatness. So, thank you for saying that."

"It needed to be said. Now, onto happier things. I won my first tournament" Ash said holding up his trophy.

"Oh, congratulations sweetie!" Delia exclaimed "I'm so proud of you. And your dad would be too".

"Thanks mum. Also, I won a grand prize for finishing first. I was given a set of Evolution Stones and two tickets for the SS Anne!" Ash said happily holding up the tickets.

"Oh wow, the SS Anne" she exclaimed "it is said to be the greatest ship in the world. And it's also said to have the best chefs in the world on board too. You'll have to let me know what it's like Ash."

"Mum, I said TWO tickets. You're coming with me" Ash said perplexed "that's one of the reasons I told you."

Delia just gaped in surprise. She had misheard Ash surely "Ash are you sure?"

"Of course, I'm sure mum! As soon as I won them, I thought it would be a great opportunity for us to spend some time together. I know you've missed me; I've missed you too. Plus, like you said the best chefs are on there, you need to put them to shame."

"Oh, shush you" Delia said, "I'll have to find something to wear."

"Well, it's not for another three months yet so you have plenty of time to get here. I have a few places I want to visit beforehand so I'll send the tickets to you via carrier Pidgeot along with my trophy. I need to go now mum, Nurse Joy has just called my name to pick up my Pokémon. I'm challenging Lt Surge tomorrow so I'll let you know how that goes. Bye" Ash said.

"Bye sweetie. Good luck. Love you lots and lots like jelly tots Ash" Delia said hanging up. Shaking his head Ash picked up his Pokémon and spent the rest of the day coming up with a strategy to beat Lt Surge. He knew Raichu would be used so he planned on using Pikachu. The rest of his Pokémon were unknown though.

The next day Ash posted the tickets and his trophy to his mum and walked up to the gym. Opening the door, he had to step back as a trainer came rushing out with a Staryu in his arms. Shaking his head at the stupidness of some people he handed his Pokédex over to the receptionist who wished him good luck. Walking into the arena he saw several trainers milling around training their Pokémon. Lt Surge was clearly doing his job right it seemed as a teacher. Ash knew he would have virtually nothing bad to say about him in his report later. Walking on to the battlefield it lit up and the man from yesterday appeared.

"Well, well" Lt Surge said "it's the boy wonder. I did wonder why I hadn't seen you before yesterday. And given your speech I wondered if I would see you at all."

"I knew who you were" Ash said "and I stand by what I said yesterday. I have a question for you?"

"Go ahead" Lt Surge said.

"Do you ever feel like Natural Selection isn't happening fast enough?" Ash asked.

Laughing Lt Surge answered "at times yeah. Why do you ask?"

"I ask myself the same question most days." Ash replied, "And then I see trainers like the one with the Staryu from before rush past me and I'm left to question that thought process."

"What do you mean?" one of the trainers asked making Lt Surge frown at the rudeness.

"Well, who in their right mind challenges an electric gym, one who's well known to use a Raichu with a Pidgey or a Staryu?" Ash said shaking his head "that level of stupid is ridiculous but sadly seems to be catching given the number of trainers I've seen come into the Pokémon centre this week who have done the exact same thing."

"Why do you think you're any different" asked the same trainer.

"Because I AM different" Ash said looking directly at Lt Surge

"Indeed you are" Lt Surge said quietly "well let's put that to the test shall we. Now, due to you still having rookie status and one badge I can only use my normal team to battle you. I know you can take more but rules are rules. So, this battle will be three on three, the challenger can substitute anytime they want. The winner will be whoever has one Pokémon remaining at the end. Agreed?"

"Agreed" Ash said calling out Eevee. Lt Surge gave him a searching look before calling out a Voltorb. Ash scanned it with Dexter "Voltorb, Pokédex Number 100, The Ball Pokémon. Genderless. Usually found in power plants. Easily mistaken for a Pokéball, they have zapped many people. It will self-destruct with very little stimulus."

"Charge" Lt Surge said, and it began glowing as it gathered energy. Ash had never seen that move but it looked like it was charging its electrical energy. Wondering if Pikachu could do that, he put it to the back of his mind and commanded Eevee to use "Quick Attack". Quicker than Voltorb could react it was sent flying but continued to charge.

"Sonic boom" Lt Surge said as it sent out an eerie sound creating a shockwave that sent Eevee sprawling but quickly rose to her feet.

"At last Eevee, a challenge" Ash said excitedly "Quick Attack into Iron Tail."

"Self-destruct" Lt Surge said causing Ash to gasp. "I know it's not perfected yet Eevee but Dig."

"Damn" Lt Surge said as his Voltorb exploded sending dust and debris flying. When it had settled down Eevee was seen to be poking her head out of a hole while Voltorb was out for the count.

"Voltorb is unable to battle, Eevee wins this round" the referee said.

"Good work Eevee" Ash said, "we're really lucky we started to learn that move this week."

"Indeed, you are Ash" Lt Surge said "but it was well thought out. Very few Pokémon can withstand such a blast from such close range. Now for my next Pokémon" as he called out a Magnemite

Ash again scanned it "Magnemite, Pokédex Number 81, The Magnet Pokémon. Genderless. It is born with the ability to defy gravity. It floats in air on powerful electromagnetic waves."

"Let's go Charmander" Ash said calling out the lizard who let flames leak from his mouth. He had decided a week ago that he would try and intimidate his opponent before he fought them and had tried various things. This seemed to work for now. Sadly though as Magnemite was a machine it didn't have the capability to be scared.

"Type Advantage" Lt Surge grunted "this will be tricky.

"Keep your guard up Charmander. These buggers can fire off Thunder Waves anytime they want" Ash said.

"Oh, you've seen these Pokémon before then" Lt Surge asked.

"Yeah" Ash said looking at him "I did a project on them a few years ago. While working for Professor Oak I met a trainer who had a Magneton and I was wondering how they evolve into a Magneton if you don't have three Magnemite. It was tricky to be honest as it's still very much unknown. The closest thing I could come up at the time with was that it literally forces evolution through absorbing all the electronic waves that pass through the air. They're fascinating Pokémon really. They're born when too much electricity passes through a magnetic field and infuses itself into a metal construct. That's why you'll nearly always find them near a power plant. They lose their sense of gravity if they expel too much electricity, and they have to be charged back up before they can float again."

"I knew I'd heard of you before" one of the trainers said "you're Professor Oaks protégé. I read that paper not long ago. It's used in our classes when teaching about electrical output and absorption."

"I only found out not long ago that Sam had published a lot of my papers" Ash said laughing "anyway we're here to battle. Charmander get in close but keep on your toes."

"Thunder Wave" Lt Surge said not missing a beat "then Sonic Boom."

"Metal Claw that electrical energy into the ground and use Ember on that sonic boom" Ash said as Charmander did just that throwing them both back several feet with the sound wave. "Now Ember again" before Magnemite could respond it became coated in flames and screeched causing everyone to cover their ears.

"Move out of the way and use Thunderbolt" Lt Surge said.

"Ember again but move closer as you're doing so. I want you within five feet of it Charmander. We've trained for this with Pikachu" Charmander did just that keeping up a steady stream of fire and inching forward causing the pressure around them both to rise. Sparks of electricity sparked around Charmander while flecks of fire coated Magnemite. As soon as he was at the distance Ash wanted, he called out "Now, Brick Break" and Charmander leapt out of the way of the Thunderbolt where it impacted the ground harmlessly and hit it in the centre causing it to groan and smash into the ground where it was seen to be fainted.

"Magnemite is unable to battle. Charmander wins" the referee said.

"Great job Charmander. All that training with Pikachu has certainly paid off." Ash said cheering and recalling Charmander.

"Well done kid." Lt Surge "Now I have something different in mind for the last challenge. I overheard a conversation after your second battle yesterday about losing to Brocks Elite. So, I rang Brock and asked him what happened. He told me this tale of how a kid with just a Pikachu walked into his Rock type gym and demolished two of his Pokémon, with just that little electric mouse. Now as you can imagine I found that hard to believe so he sent me the recording of it and lo and behold it was you and your Pikachu. I cannot tell you how proud of you I am kid" seeing Ash's confused face he continued "you have made a Rock type gym leader fear the electric type. For that you will always have our respect. So, for the last challenge I have something different in mind. My students here around me are probably wondering I didn't stomp you with just Raichu like I have with everyone else. Well, the answer is simple. I want to test my Raichu against your Pikachu. But not in a battle." He said shocking them all "I want to test your Pikachu in a battle of voltage. You told me yesterday that your Pikachu has dreams of putting Raichu's to shame. And I saw its output in your last two battles of the tournament. So, what say you, Ash?"

"I'm confused about how I win the badge" Ash replied after a few seconds of thinking "if I don't beat your Raichu in a battle how do I win the badge?"

"Oh, you've already won the badge. Beating Brock with Pikachu was enough for that. Plus, your words and ethics are exactly what the message my gym has. Choose your battles wisely, for they may be your last. I was in a war kid; electric type Pokémon saved my life. And to see these kids walk in here with a Pidgey, uncaring about their Pokémons wellbeing chills my piss. You know better. So, you win the badge. This is just to see how much further your Pikachu has to go to match my Raichu."

Looking at each other Pikachu nodded and walked onto the battlefield. "Now remember Pikachu, we'll likely be amping up the voltage. Stop when you feel unable to go any further. This is not a fight. This is a test. We're ready Lt Surge."

"Good" Lt Surge said sending out Raichu who stopped the taunting he usually did straight away. "So, you're the Pikachu my master told me about? The one who put fear into rock and ground types. I am very pleased to meet you. You don't look that strong, but then again appearance can be deceiving. So, are you ready for the test?" gaining a nod he began with a low powered Thundershock which Pikachu easily matched.

"Ramp it up Raichu" Lt Surge shouted. Ash shouted the same to Pikachu and they proceeded to do just that. A few minutes later they both stopped panting a little. "Your Pikachu's electricity is very impressive. What's the strongest electrical move it knows?"

"At the minute Thunderbolt. It's getting nearer Thunder level, but I don't think were quite there just yet." Ash said, "We've only been training together for about three months."

Silence rang out "three months?" Lt Surge asked surprised looking at Pikachu impressed "he's giving off enough output to suggest at least nine. Very well. I'm going to have Raichu use a half power Thunder. Match it the best you can" gaining a nod he watched as Raichu unleashed its strongest attack and Pikachu try to match which surprisingly he did. "75% Raichu" Lt Surge shouted, and the air became very humid as the two fought for dominance. Pikachu suddenly buckled under the strain and Ash called an end to it. Rushing onto the field Ash was very careful when approaching. All his hair was standing on end, and it was lucky he was wearing his insulated gloves he had bought when he received Pikachu. Waiting for the air to calm down took a very long time.

"Now that was bloody impressive" Lt Surge said walking over to them both "Your Pikachu will easily outstrip my Raichu in terms of power." Raichu looked a bit downhearted, and Lt Surge laughed "don't be so down Raichu. Think of this as a moment in time and when Pikachu becomes famous you can proudly say you helped gauge his power. Here Ash. The Thunderbadge as promised" he said holding out the badge. Taking it, he looked it over and placed it inside his badge case "now normally I would hand out a Thunderbolt TM to Rookies or a Thunder TM to who beat my elites, but I suspect you won't catch another electric type. For now, I'll hold onto them but if you need them for a future Pokémon just send me a message and I'll send them to you. Farewell Ash, I suggest you take Pikachu to the Pokémon Centre for a well-earned rest."

Shaking his hand Ash proceeded to do just that. Calling his mum, he told her about his battle and what happened. She was overjoyed that he had such a strong Pokémon who could look after him. Deciding to get an early night he retrieved Pikachu from the Nurse and went to bed. Tomorrow would be busy.

Chapter 10: Chapter 10- Cerulean...Again

Chapter Text

Chapter 10- Cerulean…Again

Pikachu was still a bit iffy the day after so Ash decided it would be a day of rest for them all. So, he did what any sensible person would do when in a port and go and watch the boats come in and out of the harbour. He was stopped various times by people who had seen his battles the day before to either congratulate him or rebuke him for being too harsh. Ash shrugged the latter off, he knew how hard to push his Pokémon, he also knew how much Pikachu's electric attacks could damage a Pokémon which is why he limited it to half power. Of course, the idiots that don't train Pokémon would never know that.

The main problem Ash now had was that he was on a time schedule as he had less than three months to get back to Cerulean, go to the power plant (on the off chance he'd find a Light Ball) and get back to Vermillion before the SS Anne left Port. It had taken him a month to get here to start with. Walking around the shopping area of Vermillion he noticed a few items that would come in handy for his mum and shipped them off to her. It was only when talking to Nurse Joy about his issue that he realised how daft he had been

"Well, why don't you take the bus?" Joy asked perplexed causing Ash to just gape.

"There's a bus?" he asked incredulously.

"Well yes" Joy said "this is a massive port; do you think people just walk to and from here? There are shuttles to around four or five cities in Kanto from here."

"Well, I'll be" Ash said shaking his head. "Can you direct me to the bus station then?"

Joy simply pulled out a flyer on one of the stands and handed it to him before walking off laughing. Ash decided to go and get a ticket. This would solve a lot of problems Ash decided. Getting a ticket was relatively easy, it was just the amount of time it took to get to Cerulean that bothered him.

"18 hours?" he asked the attendant in shock "it takes 18 hours to get to Cerulean?"

"Well yeah" she replied perplexed. "It's not a short journey sir."

"Damn right it's not. I'm gonna be knackered when I get there after 18 hours on a bus." Ash said shaking his head in disbelief.

"Well, you could always get off in Saffron City but that would mean you buy a new ticket to Cerulean from there, which would make it take longer to get there" she said.

"I'll just buy the ticket to Cerulean" Ash said still shaking his head. Buying it he looked at it and nearly dropped it in shock. "3 o clock tomorrow? In the AM?"

Shaking her head at the very strange customer she asked for the next person leaving Ash to walk away muttering under his breath. Walking back to the Pokémon Centre in shock he told Joy he would be leaving tomorrow "at an ungodly hour". Phoning his mum, he let her know what was happening and that he'd be sending Professor Oak Eevee in the next half an hour and to let him know when she received her. Transferring Eevee to Oak was old hat by now. Sam explained that Eevee would still have his trainer ID as his mum didn't have one therefore, he legally still owned her which Ash was fine with. Saying goodbye to Eevee was emotional but it was all part of Ash's plan to make sure his mum was protected.

The talk with Squirtle was more straightforward. Squirtle decided he was willing to give Ash a chance as nothing he'd seen so far indicated he was just as bad as his old trainer. He had also seen how strong his Pokémon were becoming and never wanted to be weak again and he was looking forward to the training sessions. It was nice to be wanted Squirtle decided. The others were still a little wary of him, which was understandable but they would soon settled into a routine. Scanning him Ash saw how far he had to go to get close "Squirtle, Pokedex Number 7, The Tiny Turtle Pokémon, This Pokémon is Male, it has a Serious Nature, and its unusual colouring suggests it's a shiny variant. It has the Ability Torrent. After birth, its back swells and hardens into a shell. Powerfully sprays foam from its mouth. It knows the moves Tackle, Water Gun, Growl, Bubble and Bite. It has the egg move Focus Punch, but it has yet to be unlocked."

"That's a good start actually." Ash said "there's lots of room for improvement. Your nature is Speed neutral, you don't really have any weaknesses there so we'll start off by perfecting those moves that you already know before moving on to variants. Your water gun is pretty powerful from what I remember when it was used on Officer Jenny so it stands to reason that you can learn others easier. The next move we'll learn when I'm satisfied with what you have is Withdraw and Ice Beam so that grass moves are less of a threat and electric moves can bounce off your shell. We'll start training when we get to Cerulean as were all having a day off today, plus, we're up stupidly early tomorrow".

The rest of the day meandered by where not a lot was done. Packing up the night before Ash prepared so that he could leave early the next morning and hearing his alarm go off made Ash and his Pokémon very irritable. Who the hell gets up at 3am to go on an 18-hour bus ride? Walking bleary eyed downstairs he handed in his key to the Night Nurse Joy and trudged to the bus station. Looking around him he noticed that everyone looked the same as him; knackered. Sitting down he mentally prepared for what he was about to do and what followed was hell. Ash had never been so bored in his life, the brief stop in Saffron to stretch their legs halfway was welcoming but then climbing back on half an hour later left Ash annoyed. "Halfway there, Pi. And we have to do this again coming back." Getting off the bus at 10:30 in the evening, after a long travel was not a nice thing either. Oh, how he loathed the Sensational Sisters. If they had just battled him he wouldn't have had to do this and he really hoped he wouldn't see them ever again after this. Blearily getting his key off Joy he walked into his room, put his backpack down, face-planted on the bed and fell asleep.

The next day he got up and made his way downstairs to have breakfast and he was halfway through when someone sat next to him. Looking up he was surprised to find it was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. She was around 5 foot 7, Red hair tied back in a ponytail, gorgeous red eyes, wearing a black jacket and a black skirt, long legs, and short heels. Ash knew instantly who she was. "Erm" was all he managed to get out before she started laughing. Ash thought it was the most tinkling beautiful laugh he had ever heard making him stammer even more and the situation wasn't helped at all with Pikachu falling off the table laughing.

"My my" she said, "if only everyone was articulate as you Mr Ketchum."

"You know who I am?" he squeaked.

"Of course, I do" she answered laughter still in her eyes "you're the spitting image of your father after all. All except for your eyes though. His was brown while yours are an astonishing shade of blue. But apart from that all my fellow Elites know who you are as we use your papers in our classes from time to time after all. I'm Lorelei Kanna, nice to meet you."

"Oh. I knew that" Ash said simply. Looking for a distraction he said "Pikachu, get up off the floor."

"Oh Ash" Pikachu said still laughing climbing back onto the table and using a menu to hold himself up "that was great. You're still blushing."

"I am not blushing" he said as quietly as possible to Pikachu "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Yes, you do" Pikachu said "you luuurve her."

"I'm not talking to you anymore" Ash said a bright red determinedly looking away from Pikachu. All the while the woman was watching on with interest. She never believed she was beautiful, her husband Bruno told her every day, and while she had self-confidence issues, she did believe him. She just wished she could believe her own brain at times when it told her to stop being silly but seeing this trainer blush made her smile.

"So, it's true then" she said. Seeing his confused red face she continued "you actually can communicate with Pokémon and not make educated guesses?"

"Oh" Ash said focusing on a topic instead of his embarrassment "yeah I can. I have been able to do so since I was six when the Aura Guardians attacked me."

"They attacked you?" she asked concerned leaning forward forcing Ash to avert his gaze again "why would they do that?"

"Uh-oh" Pikachu said, "prepare for a rant."

"I am not going to rant Pikachu" Ash said turning to him "and even if I was it's justified" facing Lorelei again "I'm a direct descendant of Aura Guardian Sir Aaron Ketchum and Queen Rin. They had an affair and my ancestor was hidden away in secret to prevent both a scandal and confirmation of their affair. Rin went on to marry and have her own legitimate family, the latest descendant being Ilene while Aaron disappeared but ever since then the royal family have seen it as a personal insult that a Ketchum is around, not only wielding aura but also being angry that aura doesn't flow through their own family. So for the past seven hundred years they have tried to enslave every Ketchum and use them for their own purposes under the guise of being Aura Guardians. My father was the last one. Ilene tried to break my mum and dad up to be with him and at last infuse her bloodline with aura through any offspring they had but Aura Guardians only ever have one mate for life, some never find that person.

When she realised that wouldn't work, she sent him on random missions to try and keep my parents apart and again, that didn't work. But when my dad disappeared, she knew I was born so she kept an eye on me. If she couldn't have my father, then she'd use me. So she had her First Knight Sir Riley pretend to show me aura when I was six to test if I had the gift. I had never seen aura before so I was clueless. Anyway when he attacked me with his aura it unlocked mine, my mother was furious and sued the Kingdom of Rota. Ilene and Riley tried to pass it off as pure coincidence him being near me but my mother knew better and had my dads journals to back up how aura is found in people which proved they were lying and it was planned. So as reparations I was trained by one of the kingdoms Lucario and until I gained my trainers license, they couldn't be within a mile of me in person.

Gaining my licence though made me free game again and since then they have followed me everywhere trying to get me to swear fealty to Ilene. Ilene and Riley themselves accosted me outside Mt Moon where I told them to bugger off. They also forget I have superb Aura senses, I can feel when another aura user is within half a mile of me now and I've frequently felt a Lucario watching me from a distance. Even now I know there is one just outside the city waiting for me to leave as Ilene has stationed them everywhere in Kanto, waiting for me to slip up so she can blackmail me into her service. She'll be waiting for her lifetime."

"Wow" Lorelei said leaning back "I can certainly see why you'd be angry. I would be furious with anyone that tried to steal my husband from me or tried to keep us apart, so I commend your mum. I would genuinely cause bodily harm at anyone that did that to me."

"At last," Ash said relieved leaning back sighing "people just don't seem to get it. They think that because she's a Queen then she can do whatever she wants to whomever she wants. I grew up without my dad, so my mum and my Pokémon are the only thing I care about. I'm lucky that mum has the protection of Professor Oak and his Pokémon or they'd target her to get to me. It's why I'm training Pokémon to send to her in case something happens to Sam."

"That's very commendable Ash" Lorelei said smiling "I hope my child will be just as protective when they grow up."

"Oh yeah" Ash said leaning forward again looking interested "I heard you'd not long since had a child. A daughter, right? I remember the media had a field day about her mysterious father. You should have heard the conversation that happened at home when that news story broke, especially the way they slanted it as it sent Oak and my mum into a rage at your treatment. The masses seem to have this unending need to know everyone's business and who your husband and daughter's father are, is nobody's business but your own. I know I'm only eleven but I'm right behind you in keeping your family life private."

"Thank you Ash" Lorelei said "it means a lot to hear a member of the public actually say it. Now, the reason I sat down wasn't just a social visit. I heard from my husband that you recently beat him in a battle?"

"Er" Ash said confused "we've beaten a lot of people in a battle. In fact, we've never lost a battle yet and I don't count facing Brocks Golem as Pikachu and I had only been together a few weeks. Could you narrow it down?"

"You've never lost a battle?" she asked astonished "in three months of being a trainer?"

"No" Ash said sighing "I mean we've tried to lose; we entered a tournament in Vermillion to try and lose but we ended up winning."

"Why would you try and lose?" she asked confused.

"Well, it's only through losing that you can see what truly needs improving on" Ash said seriously "we've never tried to throw a battle if that's what you're thinking. But every battle we've been in hasn't really shown us what we need to improve on aside from what we're already training to achieve. So we're at a bit of a loss on how to proceed. All we're doing at the moment is learning new moves and training. I know we're strong and I know we have a long way to go before were Champion level but we're a bit bored."

"Ah" Lorelei said "yes, I can see why as I was once like you Ash. When I received Lapras as my starter we blitzed our way through opponents, won a few leagues and eventually became an Elite four member. The other three are very bored because challengers who win the Indigo League have to go through me before they reach them, and I've not lost in a long time. Bruno asks me every day if I can lose just once, accidentally on purpose so we have a lot of free time. It's why we all became teachers, joined the Police etc. The only ones to beat us in the last ten years all failed when they reached Agatha and it's why Goodshow and Blue gave you the task of finding out about the gyms in secret. Yes, all the Elite four know, we had to in order to see why no one is getting past us, or even close to beating us. We are not unbeatable but we're failing somewhere, and the gym challenges are the only thing we can think of. I'm looking forward to your report at the end of the year."

"That makes sense now" Ash said nodding "I have wondered why none of the Elite Four have been beaten lately. Well so far two out of the three gyms I've been to have been good. Brock knew his stuff and taught his lessons during our battle. Lt Surge was outstanding. I know there have been concerns about him being harsh on trainers but I observed his gym and the challengers for a week before battling him and his reasons for being harsh were perfectly acceptable to me." Seeing her confused face, he asked her "let's say you were a rookie trainer, and you have aspirations of being a water/ice type specialist. Would you send out a Staryu against a Raichu?"

"No, I wouldn't." she said horrified "that's criminal to do so. You need to have months of training and counter measures in place to be able to pull that off. I would still have reservations about doing so even now and I'm an Elite Four member."

"Well, that's what's been happening" Ash said "people have been challenging him with Pidgeys, Rattatas, Staryu's, Seels etc to the point he'd had enough. And considering what my challenge with him was he never once used Raichus full electric power against them, I doubt he used even a quarter power. They would be dead if he did. I'm back here to challenge Cerulean Gym as last time I was here wasn't good."

"I'm aware" Lorelei said "it's why I'm here. Professor Oak and Blue told me about your issues with the Waterflower sisters and we debated for a few days on what to do with them as their family has run the gym for the past one-hundred years. So, I was sent to talk to them about what's going on and after doing so we at the league decided to give them a second chance with a few provisors and compromises. You don't need to know what they are as they're personal but the main one that you need to know is that all gym battles now take place during the week. Their shows have been moved to weekends only."

"Oh great" Ash said, "so I'm going to have to battle them, eh?"

"Yes you are" Lorelei said seriously "and I expect you to treat them as you would anyone else Ash. They've been through more than you know."

"Look" Ash said interrupting her "I'm not really bothered about facing them, I know we'll win. But that doesn't mean that a random stranger gets to tell me how to act to people who have been very rude to me Lorelei. I respect your position, I really do but you're not my mother. Only she gets to tell me off."

"I might not be your mother Ash" she replied leaning forward "but they're human beings with feelings just like you are."

"Then they should have realised that from the start too" Ash said just as seriously "look, I don't want to argue with you as we're likely never going to agree when it comes to those women. So how about we leave it? I'll treat them the way they treat me. That's all I can offer."

"I suppose that will have to do" Lorelei said standing up "I shall see you at the gym then?"

"Yeah" Ash said "when we've finished our training we'll head on over. It was really nice seeing you Mrs Lorelei. You never did say who your husband was when you told me I'd beaten him though."

"Did I not?" she said smiling as she left.

"Did she?" Ash asked Pikachu "I don't remember her saying anything."

"Well she mentioned it was the last time we were here. And we'd beaten a few trainers up to then, but not many were her age." Pikachu said "so we could probably narrow it down"

"We beat a few hikers up on the cape, I can't see Lorelei being married to just anyone. Maybe that's me being disingenuous though." Ash said thinking. A few minutes later Pikachu said "There was the guy with the Sandslash that we beat."

"Oh yeah" Ash said remembering him "yeah I could see him being married to her. He didn't seem like the run-of-the-mill trainer. Plus, he seemed very knowledgeable about Pokémon in general, it was him after all that suggested looking in the power plant for your Light Ball."

"That's right!" Pikachu exclaimed. "It's the main reason why we considered even coming back here, along with getting the badge that is."

"I seem to recall talk of Bruno being around here last time too. Did we battle Bruno?" Ash asked "hang on, let's look him up" walking to the computer he booted it up and typed Bruno's name in and there he was. The very same trainer they beat.

"We beat an Elite Four member" Ash whispered shocked "and we only had one badge"

"He did say he'd only recently caught the Sandslash though Ash" Pikachu reminded him "but yeah, we beat him. The question is though is Bruno Lorelei's husband?"

"That's something we may never know. I mean we can ask her but like I said she's kept it private for a reason." Ash replied "She did mention she talks to him every day about losing on purpose so he can get to battle people and I can easily see them chatting about that over breakfast." Standing up Ash and the rest had a light training session and then made their way to the gym. Knocking on he walked in and saw a different receptionist who logged his Pokedex and waved him through. Walking to the pool area he noticed the same three girls from last time standing with Lorelei. Whispering to Pikachu "it's them again. I don't really want to be here any longer than we have to Pikachu so I'm likely just going to use you. Hopefully that's allowed." Louder he shouted, "I'm here for my badge."

"So, it's you again" the Pinkette said.

"It is, now I've promised Lorelei I'd be somewhat courteous to you. I'll treat you how you treat me but if that changes so will my attitude. So, can we get on with the battle?" Ash asked standing as tall as he could.

"Very well. Miss Lorelei could you be referee?" the Blonde asked

"Yeah, sure Daisy" she replied walking over to the box. Looking at Ash she decided on a last-minute change of plans "this will be a three-on-three, one-on-one Pokémon battle between Ash Ketchum and the Three Sensational Sisters. Each time a sister loses one of the three will replace her until the battle is over. Each time a switch happens the challenger also must switch. The trainer with the last Pokémon remaining wins"

"Damn" Ash said "there goes our plans of sweeping with you Pi" shouting over to Lorelei he said "I know what you're doing Lorelei, you're trying to stop me sweeping with just Pikachu which you know I will do."

"Hey!" Lily shouted, "you don't know that mister. Our Pokémon are strong."

"Yes, I do" Ash shouted back. "Pikachu has just won a contest of volt power against Lt Surges Raichu. What do you think he'd do to a water type Pokémon in a gym that's a pool?" turning round to Lorelei he shouted "you're trying to place the odds in their favour. I have to wonder why?"

"Well you did say that you wanted to lose a battle Ash. This is the best way of doing that" Lorelei said "Now, trainers release your first Pokémon."

Grumbling Ash released Charmander while Violet released a Seel while he scanned it with Dexter "Seel, Pokedex Number 86, the Sea Lion Pokémon, This Pokémon is female. The protruding horn on its head is very hard. It is used for bashing through thick ice. Loves freezing cold conditions. Relishes swimming in frigid climates."

"They're trying to cheat us here Charmander. No holding back" Ash said.

"You sent out a fire type? Against my water type?" Violet asked incredulously. "Are you taking the piss?"

"Lorelei has tried to cheat me out of a badge by changing the set league rules at the last minute so any form of courtesy has gone out of the window as far as I'm concerned. Charmander will win. So, let's battle" Ash said angrily. If they thought changing the rules was ok, then so would he "Charmander Smokescreen on the battlefield. Then hop to the next platform."

Doing so Violet ordered Seel to jump into the pool and wait for an opportunity.

"Be careful Seel" Violet said "when you can use Water Gun."

"Watch out Charmander. I'll let you know where it is" Ash said mystifying the others. How would he know? Immediately that was answered when Ash's eyes glowed blue and he gave Charmander a running commentary of exactly where Seel was "she's going to come up on your 4, Metal Claw to split the water and then close in and use Slash" Charmander set itself and waited. Seel did exactly what Ash predicted and was left crying in pain as it went flying across the pool and onto the other platform ending up in the water. "she's still conscious Charmander" Ash said "she has limited mobility now though because you ripped her right fin slightly."

"He's right" Daisy said quietly to Lily in awe "look at her fin."

"Yeah, Violet has lost this one" Lily said "I'm up next it seems. I don't know what he's going to send out though and I don't think my Horsea can beat him. And I don't know what he's doing to figure out where Seel is either."

"My Starmie won't either, but it's our job. You know our rules now" Daisy said.

"I know. I know" Lily said watching Seel crawl up on to the platform and faint after taking another slash.

"Seel is unable to battle. Charmander wins. Lily to the battlefield" Lorelei said sighing. She knew she was at fault for this but she was also hoping the change in rules would let Ash see this for what it was. Unpredictability on a battlefield was the most common way a trainer loses but for Ash however it seems to focus him. She would have to warn her Elite Four members about this, in just over a years' time she knew he would be facing them.

"Well done, Charmander. You were fantastic." Ash said recalling him and sending out Bulbasaur.

"It seems I'm up now Ash" Lily said walking forward looking very nervous.

"So, it seems" Ash said, "shall we?"

Sighing she sent out Horsea. "Let's do our best Horsea." Pointing Dexter, he scanned it "Horsea, Pokedex 116, Number, The Sea Dragon Pokémon, this Pokémon is Male. Known to shoot down flying bugs with precision blasts of ink from the surface of the water. If attacked by a larger enemy, it quickly swims to safety by adeptly controlling its dorsal fin."

"This will be a bit trickier Bulbasaur" Ash said as his eyes glowed blue again "they can be pretty fast and prefers hit and run tactics so I'll be letting you know where it is."

"Isn't that like, cheating?" Lily asked Lorelei. Before she could answer though Ash shouted over "She was quite happy to cheat to ensure you had a chance against us and you didn't complain then so you don't get to complain now. Bulbasaur use Stun Spore on the pool. Let's bring it up to the surface."

"Quickly Horsea" Lily said getting her head back into the battle "come on up and use Smokescreen". It did just that carpeting the battlefield with smoke before diving back into the pool giving Lily some time to think of a strategy to beat Ash. She was a gym leader dammit, she should be able to beat a rookie trainer.

"Keep Calm Bulbasaur" Ash said "listen to my voice and breathe very slowly to try and avoid inhaling too much smoke. It's directly below you at the minute so when I tell you to, use Vine Whip in the direction that I tell you." A few minutes later when the smoke began to clear Horsea burst out of the water "6 o'clock now!" and before Lily or Horsea could react Bulbasaur grabbed the helpless seahorse and threw it up into the air "Target practice Bulbasaur. Razor Leaf" Bulbasaur looked up and saw it falling back into the pool and lined up its trajectory and sent out three wicked looking spiked leaves. All three hit their target and sent Horsea flying onto Lilys side of the pool where it bounced off the surface and hit the far wall clearly out cold.

"Horsea is unable to battle. Ash and Bulbasaur win" Lorelei said calmly. On the inside though she felt so guilty as she had caused this. She had forgotten who his father was, when angered he was just as focused, just as driven and just as brutal.

"Daisy. You're up" Lorelei said coming back to herself "the last battle."

With that Daisy nervously walked onto the platform "I know we'll likely lose but let's go Starmie" she said releasing a blue starfish like Pokémon. "Starmie, Pokedex Number 121, The Mysterious Pokémon and the evolved form of Staryu, Genderless. Its central core glows with the seven colours of the rainbow. Some people value the core as a gem. Regardless of the environment it lives in, its body grows to form a symmetrical geometric shape."

Thinking about his opponent Ash said quietly "Pi, no electricity. I want to see how we'll fare if you should have your electric powers nullified for any reason. This is a good opportunity to see. We know we'd win if just one Thunderbolt hits so let's give it a go but don't let them know though" Louder though "Let's go Pikachu" and he jumped off Ash's shoulder and onto the platform.

"You're either very brave or very stupid to still battle Daisy" Ash called over "either way we both know how this battle is going to go. Pikachu Quick Attack, half speed" and Pikachu set off running.

"Spin Starmie and try and avoid being hit." Daisy said trying to ignore Ash's words "When you see a chance use Water Gun" the next few minutes would not be called a great show by anyone. It was basically a chance to see who could avoid each other's moves. "Ok Pikachu, that's enough of warming up. Let the next Water Gun hit you, charge into it using Quick Attack into an Iron Tail."

"You're willing to let your Pokémon to take a hit?" Lily asked from the side.

"I trust my Pokémon implicitly just as they trust me." Ash said looking at her "They trust me to not let them get seriously hurt in battle which I gauge throughout the battle itself. Starmies Water Guns have got progressively weaker over the last few minutes due to not being able to regenerate in the pool while Pikachu has been doing half speed sprints. It's not even close to how fast we go in training and

Starmies water move is basically just a shower at the minute. Daisy knows that she can't let Starmie touch the water to regenerate because Pikachu's electric moves would be an OHKO. And for some reason none of you have taught it a psychic move which baffles me. This battle was over before it began, but it's been a nice training session for us." Turning back to the field he saw Pikachu swing his tail and send Starmie flying with a crack in its core which started flashing. "well done Pi" Ash said as Pikachu joined him not even winded.

"Starmie is unable to battle. Ash and Pikachu win" Lorelei said stepping down from the platform. "Well done, Ash."

Shaking his head at her he addressed the sisters "you actually did pretty well. But you need to come up with strategies that don't involve just staying in the pool. You ladies seem at a loss when you're forced to the surface and it's very easy to exploit that given how unstable your Pokémon are on land. As for Daisy, teach Starmie a psychic move. It will cover most weaknesses you have because you can use Confusion or Psychic to deflect attacks while you come up with a way to counter-attack. Now, can I have my badge please. I have somewhere I need to be."

"Erm, like, sure" Daisy said mystified at how nice he was being handing over the Cascadebadge.

"If you're wondering why I'm being nice it's because this wasn't your fault, it was hers" he said nodding to Lorelei who had the grace to look ashamed "I would have been in and out of here in ten minutes with Pikachu if it wasn't for Lorelei's actions. At least it wasn't all bad though. My Pokémon got a run out and a chance to show off a little." Shaking his head Ash went to leave before turning back "You're not bad trainers, you clearly care for your Pokémon but I think you should ask yourself if battling is what you truly want to do because quite frankly you have a lot to learn about them."

With that Ash left to go to the Pokémon centre where he handed off Pikachu and the rest to Nurse Joy where he then phoned his mother to give her his good news. He did not expect to be shouted at though.

"Ash Satoshi Ketchum!" Delia said looking angry "I thought I raised you better than to act like that in front of people! I do not care if Lorelei changed the rules, your actions were deplorable young man. You cannot go around treating people like that Ash. You're just as impulsive and hot-headed as your father. Now you are going to write a letter of apology to Lorelei, you will send it to me so I can check it and I will then ask Sam to forward it on. I expect it done by tonight, Ash. No excuses" she said hanging up leaving Ash bewildered. He really didn't know what he did wrong. Walking back to the nurse he picked up his Pokémon. Seeing he looked troubled and upset she asked him what was wrong and he talked it through with her.

"Well, it's clear that your mum was right Ash" Joy said "I know you are young and at times that is a reasonable excuse but this time you crossed a line with how you behaved. You deliberately showed up an Elite Four member. Now, what she did was just as wrong but you humiliated the gym leaders just to get back at her when they had done nothing wrong to you. A lot of trainers forget that they don't just represent themselves when traveling, but also their families and what you did today was tell people that your mother didn't raise a respectable young man which reflects poorly on her. Now, I suggest you get that letter written and while you're at it I suggest you write one for the Waterflower sisters too to show your mum you realise what you did wrong. When you're champion Ash you will have to work closely with these people and having good working relationships are a must in any business." With that she stood up and left Ash sat at the table contemplating his actions. His mum and Joy were right. He had let his anger take over and been a jerk and he needed to fix this. Walking up to his room he typed up an email to his mother with both apology letters attached. He ended it saying he was very sorry that he had disappointed her and that he would hand deliver the Waterflower one while he was still in the city. He received a very short reply off his mum saying "acceptable. Your actions have consequences Ash. We literally talked about this not long ago. Mum."

Well now he really felt like crap. Deciding to call it a day he went to lie on his bed and watched TV. Sleep eluded him for a long time that night.

Elsewhere Lorelei was lying in bed in her husbands' arms still awake, thinking over the day. She was very upset.

"What's wrong sweetheart" came the gravelly voice behind her.

"I was just thinking over today" she said turning over facing him "and what happened at the gym." She explained as best she could about the changes she made to the match and the reasons behind it "I can't help but feel responsible and ashamed that I put not only Ash in that position but those girls in the same position too."

"Well, you were at fault love" Bruno said sitting up "did you explain to Ash why you'd made the changes?" seeing her shake her head he sighed "well maybe you should have done it as a suggestion before you did so and all this would have been avoided then. The Ash I met was very singularly minded, exceptional at battling but it was clear that his emotional being is stunted. Now I can only speculate why, probably losing his dad and having no solid male influence his entire life to teach him how to be a man. His mum has done a terrific job raising him and it was clear to see he adored her, but life lessons taught to young men by grown men are critical to how they grow up."

"What can I do?" she asked tearing up. While being direct and blunt was one of the things she loved about Bruno it was still difficult to hear him say it. Before he could answer though an email popped up on her phone, flashing as urgent from Professor Oak. Reading it she teared up. Concerned Bruno gently took the phone off her and read it.

Mrs Lorelei

I am writing to you on behalf of my son Ash Ketchum who had an interaction with you today. I am deeply appalled at his behaviour towards both you and The Waterflower sisters. That isn't the young man I raised. I am aware that the circumstances were unusual but that gave him no right to speak to you or act the way he did. Attached is a letter of apology from my son.

Wishing you and your family well

Delia Ketchum

Reading the apology deeply impressed Bruno. It was clear someone had spoken to him other than his mother to explain how he was in the wrong and why.

"Well, there you are" he said quietly "looks like it wasn't just on your mind. Someone other than his mother has talked to him regarding his behaviour. I suggest you write a letter back apologising for your side and then let the matter lie. You were both in the wrong. If I were there at the time I would have said so" hearing their eighteen month old daughter start crying he stood up, kissed her on the forehead and said "I'll go see to her. You write a reply explaining why he reacted the way he did and that you were both at fault." Doing just that Lorelei felt much better. She still felt bad as this whole situation could have been avoided if she had thought before she acted. From now on she would endeavour to do just that.

The next day Ash walked to the gym and hand delivered the letter to the receptionist. Leaving he restocked at the Mart and made his way down Route 9 towards Rock Tunnel. The Power Plant was just south of that along a little path. Battling the trainers along there briefly took his mind off what happened but he was still deeply troubled, so much so he nearly lost a battle with an opponent he should have easily beat.

"Ash" Bulbasaur said "you need to speak to your mum. This needs sorting out very quickly because you're making mistakes you normally wouldn't do."

"You're right" Ash said "the next Pokémon centre is just outside Rock Tunnel. I'll video call her. I'd rather do it face to face than on my pokegear but in the meantime, Squirtle needs more training. We'll start with moves" and with that Ash threw himself into focusing on training Squirtle. He had a long way to go to catch up with the others due to his initial reluctance but he would get there. Ash had faith.

A few days later Ash arrived at the centre. Walking in he was surprised to see it fairly full and he was lucky he got a room to himself really. Setting everything down he prepared himself for the upcoming conversation. Breathing in he dialled his mum's number and waited. This was not going to be an easy conversation.

"Hi Mum."

Chapter 11: Chapter 11- A Side Quest

Chapter Text

Chapter 11- Fancy a side quest?

The talk with his mother lasted more than a few hours. Ash knew he wasn't totally in the wrong in the situation, but he had too much respect for his mother to labour that point too much. Delia knew he wasn't totally in the wrong, but his behaviour was out of order. Lorelei's email to her that morning about how she was at fault was nice to receive, but it wasn't how she raised him. She hadn't told him about the email yet, Lorelei had said she wanted to do it in person the next time she saw him. Ash being on his journey had left her with constant anxiety and worry.

"I'm having second thoughts about letting you carry on with your journey Ash." Delia said.

"What? Why? You've just said yourself that I wasn't at fault for it!" Ash said looking at her incredulously. "Why am I being punished?"

"You are not being punished Ash" Delia replied firmly "but it's very evident that being on the road has changed you. You would never have behaved like this if you were home."

"Yes, I would." Ash said "When have I ever been ok with injustice mum? Lorelei changed the rules and had no right doing so. I apologised to the Waterflower sisters, I even apologised to Lorelei even though she was the instigator. It's not fair to punish me for reacting like that when it was clear that she changed the rules to try and deny me a badge. And I'm being punished?"

"Ash, you are not being punished. But this type of attitude is exactly what I'm talking about" Delia said frowning "out of the four of you who left Pallet Town that day everyone knew you was the most mature out of all of them. And not once did I ever believe that I would be having to have this talk with you so soon. This is twice now in as many weeks that I'm having to have this kind of conversation with you. Lorelei may have been in the wrong, but her position still demands a certain amount of respect."

"So, I'm just supposed to accept everything the Elite Four, or any adult in a position of authority do to hold me back simply because of their position?" Ash asked incredulously "whatever happened to respect is earned mum? The very thing you instilled in me from the moment I could understand people. Does all that go out of the window because Lorelei is an Elite Four member? Lorelei lost mine for her the moment she abused her position of power and I'm the one being threatened with a grounding and my journey halted? How is that fair?"

Sighing Delia sat back. She knew Ash was right, Lorelei had apologised for doing exactly what Ash said she did but she also knew that someday Ash could do that to the wrong person and his future would go up in smoke. After a few moments of silence, she replied "Ash, you need to work on how you react in situations because one day you're going to snap at the wrong person and no amount of apologies will sort it out."

"Mum I wasn't sorry with the way I reacted to her. I was sorrier that I'd disappointed you." Ash said seriously "her actions were out of line but you are right that I need to work on my anger in situations like that because I know it will happen again at some point. So, for that I'm sorry."

"That's all I'm asking Ash. Now, I won't be pulling you from your journey. I couldn't do that to you" Delia said with a wry smile on her face "you are very much like me you know at times? Your father couldn't stand injustice to Pokémon but on an emotional level he was quite stunted. I on the other hand had a terrible temper growing up and I can't say I would have reacted any different to you. Which is why I'm being a hypocrite here Ash. I know the consequences of what comes from reacting like you do and I'm trying to save you from them"

"By being the one who consequences me?" Ash asked confused.

"Yes, because at least my actions and reactions will be safe and controlled." Delia said seriously "Out there is not, and the world is a very unforgiving place Ash for the naïve. So as I said you're not being punished, I just want you to think about things more before you act."

"I'll give it a go mum." Ash said nodding "I'll try and be better in future, I can't guarantee I'll be perfect though."

"Ash, no one is perfect sweetheart" Delia said laughing "but I'm glad we've come to a resolution of some sort. Now, changing the subject, where do I find you?"

The conversation was much lighter after that, and they both felt much better for it. Talking to her about his Pokémon and where he was located was a much safer topic and Delia gave him the usual warning of "be careful" before they hung up. As it was mid-afternoon, and Ash didn't really want to be walking around a power plant in the dark they decided to have an evening training session in the Pokémon Centres practice gym. They had all been working with weights on since Ash caught them and he only took them off them around dinner time so they could get used to the feel of them leaving Ash marvelling at the progress they had all made. Pikachu was incredibly fast, and his attacks hit hard, Bulbasaur had much more mobility than he would have had, was turning lighter and getting bigger, Charmander was beginning to turn a deeper red and becoming more battle hardened due to his spars with Pikachu and even Squirtle had progressed in the four days he had started to train him. He was still far behind the others but his attack power was getting better every day. Another few weeks and he would be where Ash wanted him to be before he moved on to heavier weights.

"You've all done amazing guys" Ash said squatting beside them covered in sweat "it's hard to believe the progress we've made in such a short amount of time but you all continue to impress me every single day. So, I've made a decision. When we go on the cruise we're all going to have a week off from training to just enjoy life and as soon as we reach a place with a beach, we'll have a few days relaxing there too. Now, that's still a long time away right now but I promise you that will happen. We've spent far too long on training and focusing on our tasks to enjoy being friends and enjoy the journey. I don't want to get to the league and look back and wonder what we've missed out on. So, what do you guys think?"

Getting cheers all around made Ash very happy. He knew it was the right thing to do, they weren't machines after all. They were living breathing beings who deserved to have fun.

The next day however Ash woke up to a massive thunderstorm. Walking down to the centres canteen he was amazed to find an eclectic mix of trainers and people, from hikers, to Pokemaniacs to scientists. Seeing them made Ash realise that the world was a massive place and there was so many vital jobs that pleased so many people just as much as his did. Sitting on the table next to the scientists Pikachu and Ash started on their breakfast until a sentence from one of them made Ash and Pikachu both look at each other.

"The boss isn't going to be happy about this, especially after the Moon Rocket team went AWOL. They've still not returned and that was months ago."

"Well, what can we do? This thunderstorm came from nowhere."

"We don't have a choice. We need to get in there as soon as possible. Our ID will only work for so long before they realise that we've taken the place of the real engineers and aren't supposed to be in there."

"Quiet. Our mission was very clear. Get into the Power Plant, sabotage the main generator and leave. No excuses. Now come on, eat up and let's go before our timeframe runs out."

Looking at each other Ash and Pikachu finished their breakfast before going back to their room. Calling out everyone Ash explained what was going on.

"Well, why don't you just call the police?" Squirtle asked "isn't that their job?"

"Not in this instance" Pikachu replied "Our task from Arceus was to remove these people as a threat before something world-changing happens. If we remove them whenever we can then there will be less to fight later on."

"Pikachu is right" Charmander said "you said there was six of them? That makes it easier than your Mt Moon fiasco, doesn't it?"

"I'm just saying, hasn't your mum literally just had a conversation with you about thinking things through before acting?" Squirtle said.

"It does" Ash replied to Charmander "but that doesn't mean it's any less dangerous. We don't have the advantage of knowing the layout of the place or darkened tunnels to ambush them, I don't want to put you guys in a situation like that one without informing you. And to answer your question Squirtle, that is exactly why I'm asking you guys first. So, we can all come to a decision."

"So, we vote" Bulbasaur said.

"What's the point?" Squirtle asked perplexed "we all know that Charmander and Pikachu want to go, I'm not thrilled about it which means your vote ties it up. And I've been around you guys long enough now to know Ash will always vote to take out the bad guys whenever possible."

"That's not fair" Bulbasaur said "you've no idea what I was going to say. I was actually going to warn Ash about the dangers but also say this is what we're training for. And the few Rockets we take out now we can treat as a training exercise."

"You're talking about killing people like it's an everyday thing" Squirtle said angrily "it shouldn't be like that Bulbasaur."

"You're right Squirtle" Ash said interrupting "and yet that's our life. It's our task set out by Arceus to deal with everyone who abuses or aids in the abuse of Pokémon. Team Rocket are number one on that list so far. None of us are happy with having to kill anyone but you did not go into this with blinkered eyes. We have all been up front about what we're going to be required to do. So are you going to join us or do you want to stay in your pokeball?"

Sighing Squirtle said "I'm in. I'm not overjoyed about it, but I can't let you guys do this alone. So yes, I'm in. But can you at least search for a map of the place? Just so we have an idea of the layout."

"Good" Pikachu said "well I suggest we move out as soon as we can. Chances are the Rockets have already left. That map idea is a good one though."

Recalling them all Ash stood up and made his way over to the computer and tried to find a layout map, unfortunately there wasn't one. "damn" Ash said to Pikachu packing up and leaving "we may have to try and find the managers office in the place to find a layout. Failing that we wing it."

The journey to the power plant was horrendous. And despite how waterproof his clothes were he was still soaked by the time he arrived at the Power Plant front doors. At the front doors were two of the scientists from before looking miserable and wet. Visibility was virtually none existent for most people, as an aura user however Ash knew exactly where they were located. Quietly talking to Pikachu they came up with a plan to take them out. It required speed of action and precision. "On three Pikachu. One, two, three. Go!"

The world exploded into pain for the two Rocket members as they were lit up like a set of lights. The rain amplified Pikachu's Thunderbolt attack and knocked them back into the doors where they immediately fell unconscious.

"These guys are knocked out Ash" Pikachu said "we can hide them and send Jenny a message once we leave."

"I don't particularly want to advertise it was me taking them out Pi." Ash said grimly searching them. Finding a key card and a radio he pocketed them and stood up "If I tell Jenny, then Rocket knows that I'm involved somehow and any mysterious deaths will be placed on us."

"What if we leave them knocked out. Then when we get back to the Pokémon centre, we leave Joy an anonymous note?" Pikachu asked.

"That might work, until they check CCTV and find it was me that left the note" Ash said sending out Bulbasaur "I don't like having to kill them when they're already unconscious. Let's drag them into the bushes over there. Hopefully the shelter keeps the rain from reviving them, should they wake up though they're likely to believe an electric Pokémon from inside attacked them. Bulbasaur, can you help me lift them with your vines over to those trees?" ten minutes later Ash had stashed them behind several bushes and returned Bulbasaur to his ball.

Walking up to the door he scanned the key card and the door automatically opened, thankfully the howling rain masked any noise the door made when opened, but the silence was absolute when it closed behind them. As was the darkness. Ash knew this wasn't right, the Power Plant was usually lit up with Pokémon and people walking around the place.

While Ash changed out of his sodden clothes, he released his team, and they came up with a tentative plan of action. What it boiled down to was Bulbasaur using sleep powder on anything that moved and the rest getting ready to attack. Using both his aura and Charmanders tail as a light they trekked into the absolute darkness.

It was very eerie Squirtle commented "I feel like there should be more Pokémon than we've come across. I talked to a lot of wild Pokémon when I was free about various places, and some had been in here. This place is usually teeming with Electric Pokémon. So far, we've seen two Magnemite. That's not right."

"I agree Squirtle" Ash said quietly "I have a feeling this place has either been cleaned out by Team Rocket or they've all been corralled into the generator room like the Rockets did at Mt Moon. Now, keep alert, I can feel a massive spike of aura every now and then somewhere to the East and whatever it is isn't happy. Squirtle and Charmander, I'm going to return you guys for now. I have a feeling that whatever isn't happy will need us all to face it. Bulbasaur, your objective is still to make anything that moves fall asleep. Let's go guys."

Walking on through the twisted corridors made Ash very highly strung. So much so that when an Electrode fell out of the air Ash used his aura strengthened leg to kick it away where it hit a wall and embedded itself into it. "On edge much?" Pikachu muttered as they carefully made their way past the unconscious Pokémon, knowing how volatile they were. For another hour they made their way carefully through the halls of the plant barely seeing anything of note, often ending at dead ends. They had come across a few Magnetons and an Electabuzz which was rare, but they didn't concern Ash too much.

It wasn't until they saw light at the end of a corridor that the situation came to a head. Hearing voices Ash peered around a corner to see one of the Rockets standing over the body of one of his comrades, terrified and screaming for help over the radio. Ash remembered he had turned his stolen one off when he was chatting to his team as he didn't want any static to be picked up and give their position away in a mission that required stealth. The terrified rocket had clearly dragged this guy from somewhere, evidently it wasn't enough, and the man had died from whatever it was.

"Why isn't anyone picking up?" the rocket sobbed "we're really out of our depth here. We should never have come here."

Before he could react a flash of blue lit up the corridor causing the man to look up as Ash sent an aura spike into the man's head instantly killing him. "Two left Pikachu."

"That's if the six from this morning were all that was sent" Pikachu mumbled back. Nodding Ash searched the two bodies for anything.

"Look at this Pikachu" Ash said moving the first dead guys coat to one side. "That's a hole. Something has punched a hole into this guy at some speed. Whatever killed him isn't messing around, is it?"

"Very few things can do something at that speed Ash" Pikachu said worried "was it a Pokémon?"

"I don't know Pi and I don't think I want to either. Sadly though, I fear that's what the massive spike was from before. It's settled down a bit in the last half an hour but still, I'm scared Pi."

"Me too Ash. But we either go on or go back" Pikachu said. Standing up Ash nodded, and they carried on into the next room and saw with relief that it was the managers office but a quick scan left Ash feeling a bit uneasy. The CCTV monitors were all giving off very loud static, the cabinets had been smashed to pieces and the room was in a mess. The reason why was pretty evident as the window that made up one side of the office looked down into the generator room had been blown apart inwards by something. The scorch marks that were on the opposite wall told Ash all he needed to know.

"Those scorch marks look very familiar Pikachu. They look like what you leave behind after an attack so whatever blew that window was not playing around and is clearly very powerful."

Creeping over to the window Ash crouched down and peered over the edge of the blown-out window. Holding in a gasp Ash quickly sat back down and began to shake his head.

"What is it?" Pikachu asked.

Looking at Pikachu he managed to stammer out "Zapdos."

"The Zapdos?" Pikachu asked earning a frantic nod from Ash. Quickly clambering up Ash's shoulder he took a peek over the top and quickly joined Ash in stunned silence.

"Well, now at least we know what that massive spike was you felt." Pikachu said "Ash, is it dead?"

"I don't know Pikachu" Ash said shaking his head "I didn't really get a chance to ask it you know?"

"No need for that. We need to go and check" Pikachu said smacking Ash on his head with his tail.

Standing up Ash shook himself into focusing. There was still two unaccounted Rockets still around after all. Walking through the room to the door opposite to where he came in, he opened it to find one of the Rockets dead leaning against the rail. That's one less he thought as he walked out onto the metal balcony and down the steps. Cautiously he looked around and saw nothing and no one around, so he walked up to Zapdos, getting as close as he dared. The bird was magnificent Ash thought. It was huge, its wingspan must have been twenty feet wide alone but every now and then little crackles of electricity would cover its body and it would shiver. Looking at its beak he saw it was covered in what looked like blood. It was clear where the wound on the Rocket member from before came from. Reaching out with his Aura he gasped. Zapdos was alive, but barely. His Aura was massively depleted, what the hell had damaged a legendary Pokémon this much?

"It's alive Pi. But barely." Ash said touching Zapdos beak causing it to stir "what the hell did this to you?" Ash asked it. He never expected a reply but the faint "Electric siphon, Rhydon, Rockslide. Very weak" inside his head was very much a surprise.

"An electric siphon? From where?" Ash asked.

"That would be from me" a voice said causing Ash to spin around. It was the engineer from this morning "isn't it magnificent?" he said walking up to Zapdos while Ash circled away keeping him in line of sight "Zapdos, a Legendary Pokémon reduced to nothing because of a lack of electricity. Such is the way of the world. You see I knew my plan would work, I just needed a team to help me install it. The boss wanted us to shut off the generator causing panic in the cities and hospitals across Kanto so I decided to use that plan and improve upon it. The siphon I created now stores all the electricity for us to use whenever we want for the right price" he added cruelly smirking as he pointed out a device that was attached to the leads of the generator. "I didn't foresee Zapdos appearing though. That was a bonus and as soon as I capture it the stronger Team Rocket will be. I'm sure the boss will accept the deaths of some of his team when I give him Zapdos in return. As for you, I'm afraid you won't be leaving here alive. Rhydon, Arbok, come forth" he said as a massive Rhino came out standing on two legs and a giant purple Snake.

In his pocket Dexter beeped to life

"Rhydon, Pokedex number 112, The Drill Pokémon, and the evolved form of Rhyhorn. This Pokémon is male. Its brain developed when it began walking on hind legs. It is protected by an armour-like hide, it is capable of living in molten lava of 3,600 degrees.

Arbok, Pokedex Number 24, the cobra Pokémon, and the evolved form of Ekans. This Pokémon is female. Transfixing prey with the face-like pattern on its belly, it binds and poisons the frightened victim. It is rumoured that the ferocious warning markings on its belly differ from area to area."

"Pikachu, start off with a Thunderbolt on Rhydon and aim for the horn, the rest of you attack the Arbok" Ash said as they all sprang into action. The Arbok was being teamed up on very effectively. Ash was pleased to see all their training being put to good use. Pikachu's Thunderbolt though swerved away and hit a machine on the generators side.

"What an idiot" the Rocket "didn't I just say there is a siphon on the generator that absorbs every bit of electricity used? Rhydon, get in close with Take Down. Arbok, stop messing around and attack those Pokémon." With that Rhydon lowered its horn and charged at Pikachu who led it on a chase around the room.

"We may not be able to use electric attacks, but we've trained for this Pikachu. Iron Tail its horn and then head on over to the generator. I have a plan" Pikachu did just that causing Rhydon to slide on to the floor headfirst from the impact as Pikachu raced over to the generator. "Try and get that siphon off if you can, I'll deal with Rhydon" Ash shouted as he leapt into action throwing aura spheres into its face causing it to roar in pain.

"An aura guardian?" the rocket said fearfully. Looking around he saw his Arbok finally go down underneath all the attacks which had come at once. "No!" he cried as he returned it and focused on Ash "Horn Drill him! Kill him!"

Ash leapt out of the way just in time but was grazed on his arm leaving a deep slash but thankfully still alive. His Pokémon saw this and started attacking the Rhydon with everything they had finally making it faint. Cheering stopped as Charmander began to glow, after a minute though he stopped and appeared to be panting with the effort. Deciding to sort it out later Ash made his way over to the Rocket, who had fallen backwards and scrambled to the wall and knocked him out with an aura punch to the face. Calling everyone except Bulbasaur back he walked over to Pikachu and saw he still had issues with getting the siphon off. "If he wakes up knock him out with Sleep Powder. Thanks, Bulbasaur. You did well there."

"Try Iron Tail Pikachu" Ash said as he dug into his bag and began to apply a dressing to his wounded arm. Frustratingly it didn't work so Ash decided to resort to using his aura infused strength to pull it off. Gradually it began to move but not enough to completely tear it off. "we'll just have to turn it off for now" Ash said following the leads that were still attached to the generator. Luckily, there was an emergency stop button which killed the machine and stopped the siphon from working.

"The issue now Ash is that the cities are still without power. We may have stopped the siphon but as soon as its switched back on it'll just reroute the electricity."

Sitting down with his back to the generator he banged his head on it hoping for inspiration. Looking around he saw the devastation that had been caused. The room was a mess, the man was lay over near the stairs with Bulbasaur watching him intently, his Rhydon knocked out not far away from him and Zapdos sprawled out on the floor about five feet away. Ash pulled out Dexter and scanned it.

"Zapdos, Pokedex Number 145, The Legendary Electric Bird Pokémon, This Pokémon is male. One third of the Legendary Kanto Bird Trio. A legendary Pokémon that is said to appear from clouds while dropping enormous lightning bolts. It gains power if it is stricken by lightning bolts."

What, Ash thought? Weren't all Legendaries genderless? Suddenly though it was as if a lightbulb went off in his head.

"Erm Pi" Ash began "I think I have an idea on how we can solve the problem with the siphon. Dexter says Zapdos gains power when it's stuck by lightning right? Well, do you think you'll be able to power it up with your electricity. You're pretty strong and your Thunderbolt is pretty much equal to a low powered Thunder attack now. And its beak did a pretty good job of goring that Rocket guy we passed on the way to here. Maybe it can help us get rid of it?"

"I can give it a go Ash" Pikachu said as they made their way over to Zapdos. "It's as good a plan as any."

Circling around Zapdos Ash had to stop himself from marvelling at it again. Unhooking its legs from the shackles that had been attached he went over to his bag and pulled several items out to aid Zapdos' recovery. Walking back, he knelt by Zapdos' head where it blearily opened an eye and spoke to it.

"We're going to try something that might not work, but it's all we have at the minute. I going to feed you several Sitrus Berries I pulled from trees to aid you as well as spray you with a Full Restore. After a minute or so, once they've started their jobs of helping you Pikachu is going to intermittently send Thunderbolts at you to try and recharge you until you can stand on your own power. So please don't attack me when I spray you. It's going to sting."

Standing up Ash did as he said he was going to. He was lucky he had four near full bottles of Full Restore on him. He had bought them for when they were going to go travelling through Rock Tunnel after visiting here. Applying it took several minutes as Zapdos was bruised and cut up in several places. It had a particularly nasty gash in one of its wings where a sharp rock shard was still wedged in, evidence of the Rock Slide it had taken from the Rhydon. Pulling it out Ash winced as sparks danced all over his arm. He was incredibly lucky that throughout the training with Pikachu he had developed a resistance from electric shocks. The one he felt then was quite strong and he winced as he let the shard drop and shook out his hand to regain feeling in it.

"Ok Pi." he said as he moved over to where Bulbasaur was, roughly twenty feet away. "I want you to send your strongest Thunderbolts at Zapdos. Every minute or so I will tell you to stop so you can rest. We have no idea if this will work, but if it does, we don't want you to be exhausted before it can move under its own power. Pi, use Thunderbolt."

For the next hour Pikachu sent strong bolts of lightning at Zapdos. For the first half an hour it didn't see like it was doing that much but Ash observed it starting to twitch more and more. After an hour Ash walked over to an exhausted Pikachu and sat down with him. "It's not enough is it, Pi?"

"Sorry Ash" Pikachu said lying down panting "I've nearly exhausted myself. I can probably go for another ten minutes but after that I'll be out of electricity."

"Hey, none of that. You did amazingly well and what you did has worked Pikachu. Zapdos is looking much better than it did an hour ago. We'll have a rest for a while and eat. Hopefully the others can come up with an idea to aid you otherwise we may have to be here all night resting and trying until it can stand up. Come on, let's go have something to eat" Leaving Pikachu where he was, he walked over to the still down Rocket and dragged him over to near Zapdos. Sitting down beside Bulbasaur he called the rest out and set up a mini picnic where they all ate and brainstormed about how to help.

"Hang on" Squirtle said suddenly after a few minutes of silence "how did Zapdos get in here to start with? This place is huge, but Zapdos dwarfs it" as a collective they all looked up to see Zapdos observing them still lying down on its front. The occasional spark coming off it signifying it was better than it was when they first arrived, but still lacking the energy needed to move. Seeing Zapdos raise its beak caused them some concern until they all realised it was looking up. Doing the same another light bulb went off in his head. Turning to Pikachu he said "do you remember the day we met Ho-oH? With the Spearow?" ignoring the surprised gasps from his recent recruits Pikachu nodded.

"Yeah, didn't we use a thunderstorm to power up my Thundershock? I unlocked Thunderbolt by doing it and we took out thirty or so Spearow in one hit."

"That's right." Ash nodded "well when we arrived here there was a thunderstorm happening. If we can get that roof opened, then maybe we can do the same to recharge both you and Zapdos at the same time?"

"It's worth a shot Ash" Charmander said "otherwise Pikachu here is in for a long night."

"Yup" Ash said standing up "the controls are likely in that room up there. Bulbasaur, keep an eye on our friend again please. We'll be back as soon as we can, hopefully with the roof open. A word of warning though, it's going to get really wet where you are if we find the controls."

Leading the way into the room Ash found the control panel just underneath the broken window. Thankfully Zapdos attack had flown straight at the window and struck the back wall missing the panel. Seeing a big red button Ash thought 'what the hell' and punched it only for nothing to happen. Ash realised it was likely because there was no power going to it. Looking over the panel he noticed a power bar that was not lit up. "Charmander, can you use Metal Claw to rip this panel open? Hopefully a little spark from Pikachu can get this part running. We only need enough to get the button to work Pikachu so just send a small Thundershock into it" standing back he watched as Charmander ripped it open and Pikachu power up the panel. Amazingly it seemed to work. Ash pressed the button before the power had a chance to deplete too much and an alarm sounded throughout the otherwise cavernous room as the roof began to open. "Keep sending little shocks Pi. We don't want this to suddenly stop opening" several minutes later the alarm stopped, and the roof was fully open.

Walking down towards where Zapdos was he noticed a big puddle had started to form on the ground, remarkably though Ash saw rivets in the floor where the water drained away. Evidently the designers of this place knew what they were doing. "Zapdos, we have another idea. Pikachu's attacks aren't recharging you quickly enough so we're going to use the thunderstorm to help us" turning to Pikachu he said "you know what to do buddy, we're going to stand over there at a safe distance. The air is going to get really heavy here soon. When we're by the stairs I'll give you the go ahead" making sure his Pokémon were safe in their balls and his backpack was stowed away safely out of the way Ash called over to Pikachu "do your thing Buddy"

Pikachu began sending up Thundershocks into the clouds, every now and then he'd receive small bolts which helped recharge him. After ten minutes of this the bolts became progressively bigger and more frequent. His ability of Lightningrod really came into play and soon enough he was redirecting a constant stream of electricity into Zapdos. The air became thick with the smell of burned oxygen and ozone as the electricity turned gradually from yellow to green/blue. Twenty minutes later Zapdos managed to stand up on its own feet and loudly squawked into the open roof and it sent a massive bolt of lightning up into the air which came back down and struck it. Pikachu seeing his job was done moved a short distance away, just far enough so that his ability stopped interfering with Zapdos healing itself and collapsed onto his bum, looking very weary.

Five minutes later it was done. Zapdos was still covered in a few bruises and scratches, but the evidence was clear to see how much better it looked. Cautiously walking over to it a horrible smell wafted throughout the area. Looking for its source caused Ash to throw up his recently eaten meal. He hadn't pulled the Rocket member away from Zapdos when he started the healing process and all that was left was a burned out, blackened husk of a person. Wiping his mouth and doing his best to ignore the smell he pulled out a bottle of water from his bag to get rid of the taste and walked over to Zapdos, Pikachu joining him on his shoulder as he did so.

"Thank you human" Zapdos said surprising them "you have done me a great service this day. Not only did you rescue me from the scum who attacked me, but you healed me also. Usually, I stay away from humans but I found myself needing to visit this place. I heard a cry from electric Pokémon while I was up in the clouds and found my electricity was being stolen when I came to their aid. Naturally it made me angry, and I attacked. It shames me to admit I was beaten by a simple machine" it finished glaring at the generator and its siphon. "I shall take care of that before I leave."

"You're very welcome Zapdos." Ash said Pikachu nodding along with his words "It's not every day you get to aid a Legendary Pokémon. Luckily, we overheard their plans this morning and set out to stop them. I was given a task by Arceus to train because a 'great disturbance' will soon happen and I believe Team Rocket are the ones behind it. This mission was clearly part of that great scheme of theirs."

"I know of your mission Human" Zapdos said shocking him "we have been instructed not to help you but also not to hinder you by our lady Arceus against the abomination. Many of us are naturally outraged by this and are unhappy with Arceus rules but it is our lot in life to keep the balance and so we cannot interfere unless it affects us directly. You will find you have allies amongst us Chosen One should you choose to ask. Know this though, should we aid you directly we risk permanent destruction and replacement and not all my kin will risk it."

"I understand" Ash said a little disappointed "I'm thankful for any aid given but I just wish Arceus had given me help other than Aura to deal with whatever is coming."

"You will find young one that Arceus' gifts are not given lightly, nor are they ever useless. You are still young and have a lot of growing to do, in time you will discover your true power" Zapdos said looking at him "you will find Ash that you have more help than you realise. You have gained me as an ally this day and if it were not for my role in the world, I would have likely joined you for a time."

"I would have declined your offer" Ash said shocking it "I know how important Legendaries are to this world and have some idea of the role they play. Travelling with me would have taken you away from your duties and I would never risk that just so I can say I have a Legendary in my team. It's for that reason that I will never capture one of you."

"You are a remarkable young man Chosen One" Zapdos said after a minute of silence "if I can aid in any way don't hesitate to ask. I need to be going now as it seems I need to warn my siblings of what happened to me."

"Actually" Ash said taking out two Thunderstones from his bag "there is something you may be able to help with. I came here initially to try and find Pikachu a Light Ball to aid his electricity. We can already affect ground and rock types so it's not a great issue if we failed to find one and we likely would have been able to create one with the power Pikachu is developing but that still wouldn't have been for a while. I heard they are created by overloading a Thunderstone with electricity. So could you help?"

"Certainly, young one" Zapdos said shaking out its wings "Place them next to the generator. I'd advise you to stand a fair distance away though. My attacks are never light" doing just that Ash walked over to where he stood when Pikachu healed Zapdos and watched on in amazement as it sent a bolt of lightning into the sky. Less than thirty seconds later it came back down striking Zapdos who screeched and cast the biggest Thunder attack Ash would ever likely see at the two Thunderstones and literally melted and moulded them into two ball shapes. Not even a minute went by before Zapdos stopped as the two balls rolled off the machine. Before Ash could do anything though Zapdos screeched again and launched another Thunder at the inert siphoning device and blew it up.

"That was amazing" Ash heard Pikachu mutter "I want to be that powerful someday."

"We will make it happen Pi" Ash said making his way over to the balls. Picking them up he held them up marvelling at them. They were perfectly clear, coloured yellow with a faint lightning bolt inside them. They were named wrongly Ash thought chuckling. They weren't balls as much as spherical obloids but given the shape of a normal Thunderstone this wasn't that surprising. Putting them in his pocket he walked over to a somewhat smug Zapdos.

"That" Ash began "was incredible. The power of that move was amazing. I hope someday we can have a battle where we can test Pikachu out against you."

"I felt his electricity" Zapdos said looking at Pikachu "and given who his grandsire was it's not surprising he has the potential he has. I look forward to the day we can battle Ash but it's a long way off being fair so far. Keep training young Chosen. I must be going now."

"Wait" Ash said causing Zapdos to pause "who was his Grandsire?"

"Firstly, know this" Zapdos said "We legends do not all breed like normal Pokémon. From time to time, we Legendaries search out Pokémon eggs that have been abandoned and infuse some of our power in them over a great period of time. My sister Articuno found eggs and so far, has had two offspring, Moltres did the same and has had one. As for myself I have sired many offspring in this way, but I cannot create new Zapdos like they can create replicas of themselves. I am different than the others but not unique in this regard. Arceus literally created new Zapdos for me to father and teach their roles in this world. Several other Legendaries throughout the world breed in this way or have them created by Arceus. I knew instantly which Legendary was your Pikachu's sire."

"Wow" Ash said. That was information that was not out to the general public. It would be game changing when Ash wrote a paper about it. "So, who is it?"

Shaking itself Zapdos rose into the air and began to ascend into the clouds. From the clouds came a voice "Me" and the storm began to dissipate leaving Ash and Pikachu looking at each other in disbelief.

"Well at least that answers that question for you Pi. You always knew you were different, now you know why" Pikachu just nodded numbly. Looking around he noticed that the cages that held the Pokémon were still intact but most of the inhabitants were now awake. Walking over to them he talked to them "I take it you all saw that interaction? Good. Now I'm going to release you all and you'll be free to go about your business. I will warn you though that other humans will be here soon. They will be wearing a blue uniform and are the local law enforcement and are good guys. Everyone that did this to you are dead, either by my hand or Zapdos'. So, stand back guys" with that Ash and Pikachu began to take all the padlocks off the cages through sheer force causing the Pokémon to flee to various places in the Power Plant. Walking around the front of the generator he noticed the wires from the siphon had been blown off by Zapdos' attack.

"Let's turn this back on now there's no siphon. Cities will have been without power for hours now Pi" Ash said flipping the switch back to on. Several loud thunks happened around the room as power began to flow once more and the room that was previously in semi-darkness lit up properly. The machine was very loud Ash thought as he made his way back to the manager's office where the phone was ringing like crazy.

Picking it up Ash said "Hello?"

"Oh, thank Arceus. We've been ringing you for hours now. What the hell is happening at the Power Plant?" came a stressed voice.

"Is that Officer Jenny?" Ash asked.

"It is yeah. Who am I speaking to?" Jenny replied.

"My name is Ash Ketchum" Ash said "I think you need to send a group of officers here Jenny. There are several dead bodies here wearing white overcoats and the whole place has been destroyed."

"Ash?" Jenny asked incredulously "why is it whenever my sisters speak to you there's always an issue. They warned me about you."

"Hey, in my defence I'm always in the right place at the wrong time. This is one of those times. Now, about those officers?" Ash said defensively.

"I'll send a crew there now. Do you have any idea what happened?" Jenny asked.

"Yeah" Ash replied "Zapdos happened. I'm here because I was hoping to find a Light Ball for Pikachu but as I travelled inside the Power Plant I came across several bodies along the way. And there was no signal on my Pokegear to ring anyone so I hoped there would be an emergency line in the manager's office. When I got to the office though it had been smashed up and I overheard a guy talking down below me. He was bragging about how useless Zapdos would be without its electricity and that his boss could charge people what they wanted when he captured it. Zapdos evidently didn't like this and killed him using its beak. It then went on a rampage destroying a little machine attached to the generator. It looked like it was trying to steal electricity from the generator and Zapdos. It flew off when it realised there was no-one left around so I made my way down to the room and switched the generator back on. That's when I heard the phone start to ring again."

"Ok Ash. What you did was incredibly stupid and dangerous but very brave. A team should be there within the hour so just sit tight and keep calm" with that Jenny hung up and Ash went down to the room below and sat by his bag waiting thinking about what story he would give to the officers. Forty minutes later voices could be heard as several officers raced into the generator room finding Ash sitting quietly next to a dead body. The next few hours were tedious Ash reflected when he was back in the Pokémon centre than night. Constantly repeating his story left Ash very irritated so much so that after the fifth time of asking he shouldered his rucksack and walked out muttering about people not listening the first four times. Thankfully a Jenny took him back to the Centre where he healed everyone up and meditated over what had happened. Knowing that he would need to inform his mother before he went to sleep, he called both Sam and Delia. Picking up they were both confused until they saw the state of him. He had several scratches on his face and his bicep was clearly bandaged.

"Hi guys" he said wearily "first off I'm ok. I'm ringing because something happened today and after our conversation this morning mum I swear that I didn't go looking for trouble, it nearly found me. Tomorrow or later on tonight there's likely going to be a special news bulletin about what happened today at the Power Plant. I've already given my statement to Jenny and what I told her was mostly true."

"Mostly true" Delia asked icily "explain young man."

"Like I said I didn't go looking for trouble." Ash said holding up his hands "I swear, I just happened to be in the same place as the incident went down" giving them a more in-depth explanation Ash told them what had happened inside the Power Plant. He left out overhearing them talking in the morning. He made it seem like he happened to stumble on their operation, he told them he came across the two dead bodies in the hallway, and then another one just outside the office. He told them about the conversation and brief battle with the last Rocket and how he saved Zapdos' life but inadvertently killed the Rocket while healing it. He expressed how sad he was at the loss of life for Sam's benefit. He then told of how Zapdos left after he healed it and then rescuing the caged Pokémon before restoring power and then ringing the police "and that's what happened. The Jennies are under the impression that all the bodies were mercenaries who took the place of the actual workers. They are still in the dark about who's been behind several of these attacks and Lance made it clear in an email I received to keep it that way for now" Ash finished an hour later.

"Well," Delia said somewhat mollified but giving him a shrewd look "given how power was out for the whole of Kanto I can't be mad at you not contacting anyone. Plus, you did say you tried to find an emergency phone to ring the police so at least you were using your brain. And I'm glad you were able to help Zapdos. I can't say I'm happy about you facing Team Rocket again after Viridian City but again, you weren't to know what happened and tried to ring for help."

"Indeed Ash" Sam said frowning "we were all worried when the power went down. Luckily, I have emergency sources of electricity on hand at the lab, but it was region-wide by all accounts. So well done my boy."

"Thanks Sam" Ash said "I found out some information from Zapdos that you'll find fascinating. I'll send it to you when I've typed it up. Trust me, its game changing Professor."

"I shall look forward to it Ash" Sam said intrigued "I must go now. Thank you for informing us Ash before we found out from another source and causing us worry" with that Sam hung up leaving just Ash and Delia. After a minute of silence Delia said, "what did you leave out?" Ash then told her the truth of what happened after he entered the Power Plant, how he had to kill one Rocket member before having to battle the last one. "I genuinely didn't know they were going to be in there Mum. I told you I was after a Light Ball and that's all I planned to look for. Saving Zapdos was terrifying. I didn't want to witness the death of a Legendary Pokémon either and I was very scared when Pikachu failed the first time to save it. Pikachu tried his best and I would never have blamed him if he did fail either but it's getting more and more a reality now. Rocket is clearly very active. I think Viridian wasn't planned but Mt Moon and Power Plant were though, and it was sheer luck I made it through them."

"You were very brave Ash. But also, very lucky" Delia said sitting back "someone is looking out for you. But sooner or later that luck is going to run out Ash."

"I know mum. It's why I promised to be more cautious." Ash replied "I'm worried about Pikachu though. He found out from Zapdos some information about his family, and it's clearly shook him up. He's not talked since then" seeing Delia's questioning look he carried on "the Zapdos we rescued was apparently his grandfather. It's part of the paper I'm going to send to Sam. They can apparently breed but it's different from usual Pokémon but essentially, they rescue abandoned eggs and infuse them with their own power over many years and create offspring. It's quite a fascinating topic really. Back to Pikachu though, I don't know what to say to him."

"Well talk to him Ash" Delia said "don't forget though that there's likely a reason Pikachu has never mentioned his family before. Not only that but he found out Zapdos was his grandfather, the only true family he likely has now and nearly failed to save his life. That's probably a reason why he's quiet too. I suspect Pikachu was abandoned as a Pichu for not only being shiny but also being more powerful."

"I hadn't thought of that. Thanks mum. I need to go now. I'll keep you updated on my location but I'll likely be out of reach for the next few days, possibly a week. I'm heading to Lavender Town via Rock Tunnel and from there I'll make my way to Saffron to get the badge before getting a bus back to Vermillion where we'll be having our cruise. I've told my Pokémon we'll be taking that time off with you from training. They deserve to relax too. Plus, I'm excited to spend time with you mum. It's been a long four months of not seeing each other."

"I'm excited too" Delia said smiling "let me know when you reach Lavender Town. Love you sweetheart."

"I love you too mum" Ash said before hanging up and going to retrieve his Pokémon. It seemed like a long overdue conversation with his best friend needed to take place.

Chapter 12: Chapter 12- Deep Conversations

Chapter Text

Chapter 12- a series of deep conversations

The next few days were a whirlwind for Ash. Pikachu refused to talk about what was bothering him which left Ash a little irritated at him but as it was his story to tell he let it slide. He informed the rest of the group though about what had transpired between them and Zapdos and needless to say their awe for Pikachu went up a few notches but overall, they decided not to treat him any different. They had been in Rock Tunnel now for 2 days and the end didn't look any nearer but along the way they had battled many trainers which helped Squirtle become more accustomed to Ash's battle style of hit quick and hit hard.

"As you progress you will become extremely more agile with your moves, so much so that if you choose to become Wartortle or Blastoise you won't have as limited mobility as many of your species have. We're looking to improve you now so that when you get to that point you will become an unassailable fortress and no longer fear attacks from Electric types or Grass types and can face them head on. That's not to say they won't affect you, but you'll become more immune and lucky shots and critical hits are still a thing. At the moment, because of the weights you're becoming faster at dodging attacks. But your aim is pretty poor for now so we're going to be doing target practice. Bulbasaur is going to be sending out Razor Leaf's at you and you're going to be hitting them in mid-air with whatever ranged attack you like. Now he has supreme control over his blades, even in the air so eventually he will be controlling them to change their direction. For now, though they will be coming straight at you.

Bulbasaur, were going to be working on Sludge when Squirtle is doing running practice. I had an idea about that. Is there any way that you can condense your Poison Powder into a ball instead of spores?"

"Possibly" Bulbasaur said thinking "I will have to meditate on that though as its all an internal reaction in my bud. Think of the inside of my bud as separate compartments that open up when using a status attack and close the others at the same time so they can't interfere with each other."

"You're essentially a plant though, right?" Charmander asked joining in

"More or less, yes. It's a bit more complex than that but essentially, you're right" Bulbasaur replied "why?"

"Well, most plants can produce that sticky stuff, right?" Charmander asked.

"Sap" Bulbasaur interjected helpfully.

"That's the one. Well, what if you leaked Sap at the same time as you released your poison powder" Charmander said "would that work?"

Thinking, Bulbasaur took a minute to work it out in his head. Slowly he began to think out loud "that might actually work you know. But rather than leaking sap I could try and make it so that the sap doesn't actually go anywhere but if I attach the spores to the sap it might be a makeshift Sludge. I would then have to figure out how to release it as an attack after that. Usually, I just shake the bud and it releases spores, which are lighter than air and therefore travel easier. This will be much trickier as sap is sticky and usually it just oozes."

"Well, we'll have to get the first part working first" Ash said as he listened in to their interaction "we'll try and figure out the mechanics after that. It may be that you run around and let the sludge drop to the ground that way, to keep your opponent penned in. It's not ideal but for now it's likely all we may have. Now, Charmander. You're much trickier to deal with at the moment."

"Why?" he asked confused.

"Because you nearly evolved at the Power Plant." Ash said seriously causing the others to listen in intently "which means a few things will have to happen before we go forward. I'll start by saying no matter which option you choose you will still be a part of our team and family. Now, the first option is that we just do light training from now on so as not to stress your body. The obvious downside to this is that you can't participate in actual battles. The second option is that when we leave here, we buy an Everstone at the Poke Mart. This has the same drawback as the first option, with the limited training and battle use until we get one. The final option is that you evolve, and we continue on as normal."

"I'm not sure I want to evolve yet Ash. I don't feel ready mentally to do so." Charmander said sadly.

"Your body however is telling you a different thing" Ash said "Your mind might not be ready, but your body is. Squirtle, Bulbasaur. You need to give this some thought too as you're all rapidly approaching the same point Charmander is at. Bulbasaur, your body is a much lighter shade than it was when we first met, and your body has got much bigger. Your bud is also starting to open more which means you maybe have two to three weeks before you'll be in the same situation. Squirtle, your ears are beginning to curl at the edges and your shell has become much harder. Your legs are also becoming much longer and sturdier so I would say you have maybe three weeks, a month at most before this too becomes an issue. Luckily by that point we'll have made it to the nearest mart where I can order three Everstones but until then you all need to give it serious thought.

Our training has likely accelerated your evolution process given how hard we train and the toughness your body has developed is approaching a time where some change will need to happen to cope with the added stress. For now though the rest of you go and start training, Charmander I want you to take the morning off training to have a think about what you want. If you need advice, we're all here to talk to."

With that Ash stood up and began his own fitness routine. He had started trying to develop his aura strength more by infusing his fists with aura and punching rocks. He didn't have the gym on hand that a centre had, nor were there and trees to practice his usual 100 pull ups a day and his upside-down crunches. He had developed very well over the last four months, and while he didn't see any change himself it would be very noticeable to others. He was incredibly fit for someone twice his age and had sprouted to over five feet in such a short time. Settling into his Kata stance he began punching the wall, focusing more and more aura as he progressed.

They had become so focused on their training that they didn't see they had an audience. Hearing a cough made them all stop and turn to the place the noise came from. "Who's there?" Ash said getting into an offensive stance and ready to launch an Aura Sphere into the darkness around him.

"Easy there, lad" a familiar voice said as Bruno came out of the shadows. "Interesting training methods you're using there."

"Bruno?" Ash said relaxing his stance and walking over to his camp where he pulled out water for them all. Handing Bruno a bottle he sat down cross legged as Bruno did the same "I have to admit, I didn't expect to see you in here"

"Aye lad. I was sent here by Lance to investigate what happened at Power Plant. Nurse Joy told me you left the centre around two days ago and were making your way through here. I know this place very well, it's where I first met my Onix many years ago, Onix heard you punching the wall from around half a mile away" Bruno said, "the officer who took your statement wasn't very clear of the details, your description however intrigued me."

Shaking his head in disbelief Ash said "five different officers took my statement Bruno, five. How can they not give you a clear indication about what happened?"

"Well lad that might be because you left out key parts of what happened" Bruno said wryly giving him a look. "Particularly Team Rocket being involved."

"I was ordered not to say anything by Lance." Ash said sighing "I disrupted a team in Mt Moon who were after the fabled Moonstone and were performing inhuman experiments on the Pokémon there. I stole a laptop and sent it anonymously to him. Evidently it wasn't anonymous enough as he sent me a personal email a few days after instructing me to keep certain things quiet and that he would be in touch with me. He hasn't yet called. He also sent me an email not long ago asking about my interaction with an Ancient and he's not replied back to that one either. But when I disrupted Team Rocket at Power Plant, I remembered what Lance had said and left out their involvement."

"Jenny is under the impression that a gang tried to steal electricity and was attacked by a Zapdos" Bruno said chuckling "what actually happened?"

Ash told him of what happened the entire day. He left out killing the Rocket member in the hallway, but the rest was a true description of what happened. "I didn't plan on having the last guy die" Ash said "but I failed to remember him when I came up with my desperate plan to save Zapdos. I'm not sorry the scumbag died Bruno, what they were doing was unforgivable to me. But I am sorry that I didn't think of him at the time. You could have gained much more information about their master plan from him."

"What makes you think there's a master plan?" Bruno asked raising an eyebrow.

"I know there's a master plan Bruno because both teams I've encountered have mentioned a big project coming up that they wished they would be a part of." Ash said wryly "and it doesn't sound like it's going to be good for the rest of us. Not only that but I have a feeling that I'm going to smack bang in the middle of it. Don't ask me why, it's just a feeling I have given how often I have encountered them in just four months."

"What I'm about to tell you was never uttered, do you understand me, Ash?" Bruno said leaning in looking serious "ten years ago your father took part in an investigation on Cinnabar Island after the laboratories there exploded suddenly. Team Rocket was a new upcoming gang at the time who claimed they wanted world domination. To do so they tried to create a Pokémon using a fossil they found. That fossil contained the DNA of Mew, and they financed its creation in a hidden lab underneath the volcano. Something went horribly wrong, and the explosion set off a chain reaction that made the volcano erupt. Half of Cinnabar was under molten lava within an hour and it took several years for the island to recover, it's still nowhere near what it was. It's now a tourist place actually but I'm getting off point.

The experiment went wrong. Something happened but we have no idea what and the lab was covered by lava so we could not find any information about what was created, if anything was successfully created in the first place. We believe that creation survived and that it was that what wiped out Viridian Gym and killed your father and the leader of Team Rocket. We also have reason to believe they want to create another one. We have no proof however and your information on the laptop wasn't much use I'm afraid either. Just results from the experiments inside Mt Moon but it was well thought out by you. Power Plant was a bust for us too given how there were no survivors and I doubt they would know much about it given how secret the new leader is being. We have several leads but nothing concrete about who he or she is."

Standing up Bruno shook his pants of dirt and Ash did the same. "Now, before I go, I'm going to say something that will stay between us. My wife would not thank me for this as she wants to do this in person but she is deeply sorry for what happened at Cerulean Gym."

"I'm still angry about that Bruno." Ash said "I lost a lot of respect for her over that and if she'd have told me beforehand that she had a different challenge in mind, like Brock and Lt Surge did I wouldn't have minded. Brock and Lt Surge explained their changes to my challenge and gave me valid reasons why. Your wife decided to stack the deck against me at the last minute simply to see me fail."

Holding a big hand up he stopped Ash "No she did not Ash. She told me everything you said to her, including about how you've not had a decent challenge since you faced Brocks Golem. Not only that but she knew if you just used Pikachu, you would crush those three girls and she didn't want that. She has a soft spot for them. Their parents died in a horrific accident a few years ago and their shows are their way of making sure their gym doesn't get taken away from them so she's kind of adopted them."

"That has nothing to do with me Bruno" Ash said "I would have been more than happy to have my initial battle, get my badge and leave. As it was, they were extremely rude and denied me a battle. Twice. They're the gym leaders, it's their job. Blue, Lance and Goodshow have given me a mission to inspect the gyms as I challenge them and I did what I was asked to do. Your wife might be empathetic to them, but I don't know them and as such I don't care about them. Now, I'll take your apology for what it is, and we'll move on. I'm still not happy with your wife though."

"And I'm aware of that as is Lorelei." Bruno said "but be mindful of what you say, she is my wife, and I will defend her when necessary. Right now, you're only a kid. Soon though you'll be a man and the relationships you cultivate now have a massive impact on your future. My wife is a wonderful human being who made a mistake in not talking to you beforehand. It was not personal as you seem to want it to be. Maybe you should ask yourself why you believe that."

"It certainly seemed that way with how she responded to my protests. As I said though, we'll move on." Ash said starting to pack up and recalling his team. Shaking his head Bruno said his goodbyes and left melting into the darkness.

"Are you still angry about Lorelei?" Pikachu asked.

"No, not anymore Pi" Ash said "I moved on from it the day afterwards when I gave my apologies for my behaviour to the sisters. What I did to them was wrong. What I said to Lorelei wasn't but my mother was right about one thing. When I'm out traveling, I represent not just myself but her too and I need to get a handle on my anger when I feel aggrieved."

"So why did you tell Bruno the opposite?" Pikachu asked perplexed.

"I told Bruno I was still mad at his wife because even Elite Four members need to realise that their actions have consequences, just like a rookie does." Ash said as they began walking "and it shouldn't take a rookie to have to point that out to them. Now let's get cracking shall we, I want to make it out of here by sunset tomorrow at the latest and it's starting to feel uncomfortable in here."

If Ash had sent out an aura pulse, he would have realised that Bruno hadn't completely disappeared and heard every word. Ash was right in a way. Those that get to the top sometimes forget what they felt when they were at the bottom and it was good to be reminded every now and then to stay humble. Sending out his Onix they tunnelled their way out of the mountain.

That night Ash set up camp for hopefully the last time in Rock Tunnel. He wouldn't be returning here in a hurry he decided. Honestly, why people still travel through here baffled him as apart from the occasional rock type and Cubone there was nothing here and no reason to be in here. Conversation was stilted that night as Charmander had still not come to a decision. "It's ok. We'll decide when we get to Lavender Town. As I said earlier though we can't risk training too hard, but you can still do your daily exercises. A decision will have to be made then though."

That night they all decided to stay out of their Pokéballs so that they could talk while Ash slept.

"I'm worried about changing who I am" Charmander said suddenly halting their conversations. "And I can't keep placing blame on Damien for what he did. Why am I believing Ash is the same as him?"

"Is that's what's bothering you?" Bulbasaur asked.

"Yeah" Charmander said "I know my temperament. I know how driven I am and I know that will just get worse if I evolve."

"Then stay as a Charmander" Squirtle said as if it were obvious.

"It's not that simple" Charmander said exasperated "I will never reach my full potential as a Charmander. I want to prove Damien was wrong for what he did, calling me weak and making me feel worthless. I don't know what to do."

After a few minutes of silence, it was Squirtle who piped up "you need to evolve Charmander. You said it yourself that you have a desire to make Moltres be the second-best Kanto Fire bird. You've told us that many times so you already knew that you were going to reach your final stage at some point so the problem here is not evolving, it's your behaviour after you do so. Take Damien out of the equation and give me a reason to stay as a Charmander. Temperament does not come into it as you will change your mindset to accommodate your new body. That's a well known fact. Will you suddenly lose respect for Ash? Given how driven he is to be the best you two are a perfect match. You're also forgetting us. We won't let you get a big head. Ash once told me that we were all family and that we sort issues out together as a family and your thoughts on this are making a mockery of that. I'm aware I've been here the shortest amount of time but that's only by a few weeks. I have already decided I won't fight evolution when it comes. Ash will need us at our best to fight whatever Arceus fears, and if that means evolving to do so I will. I don't want to be put into a situation where evolution could have solved a problem, just because I was stubborn."

"Squirtle is right you know" Bulbasaur piped up after a few minutes of thinking looking at Charmander "I hadn't planned on evolving myself after what my previous trainer put me through. I wanted to prove I was better as a Bulbasaur for my own selfish needs. I know we haven't lost a battle yet, but I don't believe Ash will care if I lose against a stronger foe. He won't mock us or belittle us. Instead, he'll use it as motivation to do better next time. I don't think evolution is as near as he thinks though but I will ask for an Everstone stone simply to master the strongest moves I can learn. Then I'll evolve. You on the other hand have reached a point where your body is telling you it cannot physically cope with the demands your power has reached. You need to evolve."

"I'm done with evolution" Pikachu said "I've evolved once, and I love how I feel as a Pikachu. The moves I could learn as a Raichu aren't enough to convince me I need to evolve again. My electric attacks are already superior to most fully evolved electric Pokémon and the physical moves I learn as a Raichu are just not worth it so I'm done. I agree with the others though Charmander. You have reached a point where you're not going to get better. What other moves can you learn to improve yourself? Flamethrower? Dragon Claw? I think that's about it really and you're already close to that with your Ember."

"I know you guys are right" Charmander said "it's just telling my head that that's the issue" standing up Charmander went and curled up next to Ash and closed his eyes not seeing Ash do the same. The others stayed up a bit longer before going to sleep themselves. The next day was more of the same for the group as they made their way through the darkness of Rock Tunnel. Luckily there was torches at strategic places with arrows on where the exit is throughout the place so you couldn't really get lost and following them Ash eventually saw a light in the distance. "Looks like we made it guys" checking his Pokégear he saw it was a little after 3pm "we should be able to make it into Lavender by tonight if we decide to carry on walking, what do you guys think?" receiving shouts of affirmation Ash led the procession out of the tunnel and breathed fresh air for the first time in four days.

"Hey, you" a voice shouted at them making them all look up. Seeing a huge man walking towards them Ash wondered what he wanted "You've just come out of the tunnel right?"

"Yeah, I have, we've been in there four days. Why?" Ash asked.

"Well, you're a trainer, right? I challenge you to a battle" he said smirking.

"You are kidding?" Ash asked incredulously. "I've literally just told you we've been in there for four days. We're exhausted so no we won't be battling you" Ash began walking away but before he could get very far the man moved in front of him stopping him from leaving.

"Well, I say we are battling. You're a trainer, so am I. And you're not leaving until I say so kid" the man said towering over Ash.

Ash had had enough of the guy. Fusing his hand with aura he pulled his arm back and punched the man in the closest place that would do the most damage. His balls. Immediately Ash felt the man crumble around his hand, collapsing to the ground squealing in agony. Stepping around him Ash carried on walking leaving the man squealing in pain. Ash had walked abut twenty feet away when he heard something moving towards him from behind. As Ash turned round to face it a red blur jumped in front of whatever it was, followed by a terrific blinding light and then an amazing source of heat rushing away from Ash.

Blinking Ash took in what had happened. The trainer had managed to get to his knees still holding his privates and had called out a Pokémon which had attacked Ash on his command. Charmander had seen the attack and knew Ash wouldn't be able to turn around in time and jumped in front of him to protect him and in doing so had triggered his evolution. Rather than stop himself he let it happen and immediately felt a rush of power stir up inside him as he launched a Flamethrower at the attacking Pokémon blasting it back into the wall of Rock Tunnel. Taking an attacking stance, he narrowed his eyes at the trainer who was open mouthed at what happened. "Meleon" he growled letting his claws unsheathe as he began to stalk towards the trainer. Feeling a hand on his shoulder he looked around in anger and found his wrath quell. Ash was standing there with clear pride in his eyes "No Charmeleon. Thank you for saving me, it was greatly appreciated but your opponent is down. There is no honour in attacking the trainer for his foolishness" the words caused Charmeleons anger to return as he turned around and let flames build up behind his teeth "No Charmeleon" Ash said with a firmer grip of him "your opponent is beaten" turning back to Ash they stared at each other for a good thirty seconds, neither one backing down. Huffing Charmeleon put his claws away and stalked up to the trainer, who was still on his knees. Ash watched on cautiously as Charmeleon got into the man's face causing him to lean back from the heat coming from his mouth.

"I know you won't be able to understand me, but my trainer just saved your life. Next time you won't be so lucky" walking back to Ash he pressed his Pokéball on Ash's belt and returned himself, clearly still too angry to trust himself.

"What, what did it say?" the trainer stammered fearfully.

"He said that you should be thankful I was here to stop him killing you for your cowardice and that next time you won't be so lucky." Ash said "next time I won't stop him." Walking away the group followed him in silence, mentally preparing themselves for the conversation that was bound to happen that night. "I'm very proud of him guys" Ash said suddenly breaking the awkward silence "I know why he's angry, the choice of evolving was taken from him by that coward. Add that to the fact I stopped him getting retribution and I have an angry Pokémon on my hands."

"He removed himself from the situation though Ash" Squirtle said "he was very scared that this would happen to him you know? He was afraid that he would change who he is upon evolution.

"He was always going to change Squirtle" Ash said "you all know this. Evolution doesn't just change a Pokémon's body and it's pretty evident by his reaction that he has a close ancestor that was a dragon. I actually suspect it was his father. They don't stop until their opponent is down and can't move anymore. The Graveler wasn't the only opponent he saw back there. That guy is bloody lucky I stopped Charmeleon from killing him. He attacked Charmeleons family and very few live after doing that normally."

"You're not wrong" Pikachu said "I would have done so myself if you'd have let me. I'd do it for any of you."

"Well, we're all going to talk to him when we reach Lavender Tower." Ash said "We'll all make him understand that he wasn't wrong for feeling the way he is. And removing himself proved that he knows when to back down. I'm very proud of him."

The walk to Lavender Town was full of random conversation. The cheerful conversation lasted until he set foot across the threshold of Lavender Town when the air immediately became oppressive. He immediately recalled everyone safely back into their Pokéballs.

"Ash" Pikachu said cautiously "something is wrong with this town."

"I agree Pikachu" he replied. "Something has happened recently. You can feel how heavy the air is here as soon as we walked into the town. Let's go to the Centre and ask Joy what's going on." Walking through the town Ash was assaulted by heavy spikes of oppression from time to time. Something was trying to take over his mind. Walking into the centre he spotted Joy and went to talk to her and he was taken aback by how rough she looked. Her normally coiffured hair was lank, her eyes were bloodshot, and her face looked gaunt. Normally Joys had a cheery disposition, but this Joy had seemingly given up hope.

"Nurse Joy" Ash said walking up to her "are you ok?" immediately she burst out crying. Frantically wondering what to do he opted for calling his mum and putting her on speakerphone "mum, you've got to help me, Nurse Joy is crying, and I don't know what to do."

"Context Ash" his mum said exasperatedly "what happened?"

"I asked her if she was ok" Ash said dumbly "that's literally the only thing I've said to her."

"That's all? Ok. Hand her the Pokégear and let me talk to her" Delia said, "and let us do so in private Ash."

Handing a still sobbing Joy his Pokégear she took it trembling. Ash walked about ten feet away desperately trying to hear what was being said but also knowing if his mum found out he was listening in his ears would soon be bleeding. Ten minutes later a hopeful looking, but no longer crying Joy handed him his Pokégear back and confusingly a key.

"Hello?" he said into the Pokégear.

"Ash. I know what's wrong with Joy. Now, she should have handed you a key, correct?" his mum asked.

"Yeah, she has. She's looking at me strangely though" Ash said a bit concerned "what's going on?"

"I'm getting to it Ash." His mum said patiently "What I want you to do is lock the front door to the centre. You're the only person there other than Joy and no one else has visited in over two weeks so it's unlikely anyone else will. You're then to walk her back to her room, make sure she's lying in bed and have Bulbasaur use Sleep Powder on her. Ok?"

"Erm, yeah sure mum" Ash said perplexed "why?"

"She's exhausted." Delia replied "She's not had a sleep in over three weeks now. Something is keeping people awake in that town so you're likely going to encounter the same thing if you go wandering so don't! I'm going to call Sam and inform him something is wrong in Lavender Town. Hopefully he can get someone to you in the next day or two. You mustn't leave the centre Ash until then or you could become affected too."

"It can't mum" Ash said.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"As soon as we crossed the threshold into Lavender Town Pikachu I felt a wave of oppression spike us." Ash said "and all the way here to the centre it kept trying persistently but was unable to grip us. I think it's because I have the gift of Aura, I kind of accidentally gave Pikachu a variant too through training. He can use Aura Sphere, so I think whatever I did to him is protecting him too. I think it's a Psychic type Pokémon that's doing this as Aura users are unaffected by psychics. It's why they fear us, they can't read our minds or emotions."

"That makes sense Ash." Delia said "From what your father told me it's one of the reasons the Rota Royal family want to infuse their bloodline with Aura. Many years ago, one of their royals was captured and controlled by a psychic user. They ended up killing the reigning monarch before they were caught and purged so infusing them with Aura would put a permanent stop to that kind of coercion. Anyway, I'll let Sam know and either he or I will ring you back with more information."

"No worries mum." Ash said "I'll use the computers here to try and look for any kind of clues. Hopefully whoever they send can then sort it out as I'm getting kind of tired of being the one thrown into situations I don't need to be in."

"Good boy. I'll speak to you soon Ash" Delia replied hanging up.

Releasing all of his Pokémon he frowned as he felt the wave of oppression hit them again and he saw them stiffen up before relaxing again.

"What the hell is that, Ash?" Charmeleon asked looking furious "who dares try and control us?"

"Easy Charmeleon" Ash said "it's why were locked in here for now. Just let me take Nurse Joy back to her room and I'll join you guys here and let you know what's going on. Bulbasaur, can you come with me, my mum has a little job for you" Locking the front door Ash led a very confused Bulbasaur and a much happier looking Joy to her room. "Mum wants you to knock her out. She's not had a sleep in over three weeks now and is exhausted. Hopefully after a good rest she'll be ok, as it is she's on edge" Bulbasaur complied, and Ash tucked her in, left the front door key on her nightstand before leaving her to sleep. Walking back to the front desk he gathered them all around a table and told them what was going on.

"Why can we all resist?" Squirtle asked.

"As I told my mum I think it's because of me and our training." Ash said "I frequently use Aura Spheres when training with you, the more they hit you the more your body adapted to my Aura and the more resistant you guys have become. It wouldn't surprise me if eventually you guys can use a variant of the move like Pikachu can. Psychics can't affect Aura users. We're immune to them. That's my best guess anyway."

"So, are we going to find out what's causing this?" Squirtle asked.

"No, we're not" Ash said surprising them all "my mum has already got Sam working on it. We just need to stay in here and see if we can find anything to clue us in on what's going on. I made a decision after Rock Tunnel and it was something I was thinking about since the Power Plant. If I can help it, we won't be going searching for danger. I know we have a mission from Arceus, we are training for that but situations like Mt Moon and Power Plant could have been avoided. Especially Power Plant if I'd just called the police and let them deal with it. So, going forward, we're only going to head into situations like those if we have no other choice and no other options."

"Wow" Pikachu said "that's a bit sudden. Do we not get a say in this?"

"Yes of course you guys do" Ash said to him "but I'm not going to risk your lives by playing the hero. If we have to then we will, otherwise we let the police deal with it. We have too important a role to risk in situations like Power Plant. Literally the only benefit we came away with there was you finding out about your family Pikachu."

"And saved thousands of lives by stopping Team Rocket stealing the electricity" Pikachu exclaimed furiously.

"And the police would have eventually investigated the Power Plant and found out what happened Pikachu" Ash retorted "everyone knows that Kanto gets its electric supply from there. And given that no one could get through by phone they would soon have sent a team out to investigate."

"I think that's wise" Squirtle said "I was against going to Power Plant to start with but was outvoted. Another situation like that, one slip up and Team Rocket knows instantly who's been taking out their teams so at least this way we can train and get stronger before hitting them with all we've got."

"I'm not happy about this Ash" Pikachu said shaking his head "we were born to do this job."

"And we will" Ash said, "we just won't go looking for trouble that can be avoided."

"Seems cowardly to me Ash" Charmeleon piped up "I'm with Pikachu on this one. Arceus put us in your path to help you with your mission. So far, I think we've all held up our part of that deal. And now you want to stop doing it?"

"I don't want to stop doing it Charmeleon" Ash said "we all know there's going to be plenty of times that we will face danger but actively going looking for it is something I'm trying to avoid."

"I still don't like it Ash" Charmeleon said.

"I know you don't, and I was very well aware that some of the rest of you wouldn't be either." Ash said sighing "but finding yourself in a situation and looking for that situation are two different things."

"Ash is right" Bulbasaur said "we're just rookies at the minute. We can't fix everything. There's not just us in the world than can solve problems."

"Maybe," Pikachu said "but finding ourselves in a situation we haven't trained for, in real time is also equally as dangerous. We survived Mt Moon and Power Plant and we came out of it more experienced than when we went in. Up until Power Plant I was the only one here who had witnessed what we will have to do for Arceus. The others had only heard the stories of how it felt to kill but now they all know what it's like. We're no longer blind to reality Ash. None of us can say we don't know what to expect anymore."

"And I get that Pikachu" Ash said "but if someone with more authority AND has the resources to sort it out can do so then that's what's going to happen. I'm eleven years old Pikachu and I don't have any credibility yet to be able to justify interfering in other people's business. As I said trouble finds us, we will have plenty of chances to stop Team Rocket but how long do you think we'll last should they decide we're interfering too much and throw everything they have at us? What good are we to anyone if we're dead? You and Charmeleon need to stop thinking of this in terms of cowardice and more like we're biding our time until we have the strength to act. At the minute all we are is a fledgling aura user who's still a rookie trainer with three badges who has slightly more powerful Pokémon than a rookie would normally have. We have a long way to go before we can call ourselves dangerous."

"Which is all the more reason to not hide" Charmeleon said "we need the training, in real time as Pikachu said."

"Which we will get" Ash said exasperatedly throwing his hands up in the air "you're just not listening to me. We will find ourselves in situations where we have no choice but to act but until then we will train in secret, using the gyms and other trainers as practice. Look, I've explained this many times now. I'm not going to do so anymore. Congratulations on evolving Charmeleon, I'm very proud of you and very grateful that you saved me against that trainer. But I suggest you and Pikachu have a think about what I've said. Throwing ourselves recklessly into situations helps no one."

Standing up Ash left to head to the computer in the corner to look more into the history of Lavender Town and the more he searched the more confused he became. The town was famous for one thing, The Pokémon Tower. It housed the dead remains of thousands of Pokémon that had died over the years. There wasn't much more information on it. He read about the man who was caretaker of the tower, a Mr Fuji. Apparently, the bloke looked after sick Pokémon when he wasn't taking care of the tower and found them homes. He found a police report from a few months ago about him. He had been missing now though for over three months which was very strange, and his house was locked up tight, no break in and no note saying where he was going to.

Typing his name into a search engine his picture flashed up. "Now that's very interesting" Ash said out loud reading a report from years ago.

"What is?" Pikachu asked as they all trotted over. The debate wasn't over, Ash knew that much but until it was brought up again Ash decided to ignore it.

"This man, Mr Fuji is" Ash said printing off a few pages he had saved. Walking back to the waiting desks he spread them out so they could all read them together. "Now, I looked up this town to try and figure out what's going on. This town is famous for two things. The Pokémon Tower as it houses the remains of thousands of Pokémon who have died. And Mr Fuji, a man who rescues sick and abandoned Pokémon, heals them up and then finds them homes. He's apparently been missing for over three months now and no leads have ever been found to his whereabouts. A quick search about him offers up some very interesting information that none but we know. Do you remember the conversation we had in the tunnel with Bruno?"

"About your dad investigating a lab on Cinnabar that blew up, supposedly financed by Team Rocket?" Charmeleon asked "yeah, what about it?"

"Well apparently the lead scientist at the time was none other than our boy here, Mr Fuji, formerly Dr Fuji." Ash said showing them the paper on him "he was mysteriously acquitted of all crimes he 'supposedly' committed due to all the evidence being under thirty feet of lava and then exiled to here where he committed the rest of his life to 'doing good' for the community."

"Seems like he had a guilty conscience" Squirtle piped up "or he was covering up for something."

"Exactly" Ash said "now the facts of that time are this. Rocket was trying to create a Pokémon with Fuji as the lead guy. The lab blew up, evidence goes with it, dad investigated and found nothing. A few weeks later Fuji is fully acquitted after dad attacks Rocket HQ at Viridian Gym and goes missing along with the leader, with no trace of either of them or their Pokémon ever being found. Dad was declared dead extremely fast by Goodshow and Lance and his funeral happened and in that time Fuji moves here. My uncle Giovanni told me about a month before I set out on my journey that no known Psychic Pokémon could have teleported anyone out of that building and left no traces of evidence. Known Pokémon. Well, we know from Arceus that Mew has been kidnapped by Team Rocket and they're trying to clone her, maybe already have. We also know from Bruno that they tried to do so ten years ago, and no evidence survived. Except maybe it did."

"What do you mean?" Squirtle asked.

"My dad was an extraordinary trainer. He became the youngest ever Pokémon Master at age 21." Ash began as he stood up and started pacing "I've seen footage of his battles. His team were monsters, his starter is a legend in the Charicific Valley as the one that battered every single Charizard in there in combat except one. The leader of the Valley at the time, that being Professor Oaks Charizard which it drew against. So, he was no joke in battle. There is no way that the leader of Team Rocket could beat my father in battle unless he had a secret weapon that no-one knew about." Turning to Pikachu he continued "do you remember outside Mt Moon, the guards outside that hole at Cerulean Cave? We both felt that presence Pikachu. We all felt the power of Zapdos when it used Thunder. Whatever presence we felt outside that cave was more powerful than Zapdos given we were outside and still felt it. I believe it's whatever was initially created by Team Rocket, that escaped their clutches is in that cave. We felt it Pikachu, we felt it."

"It's a bit of a leap Ash but the evidence does fit." Pikachu said, "without the Pokémon though as evidence all this is is guess work."

"That's what's troubling me" Ash said running a hand over his face "Fuji has gone missing, at exactly the same time that Rocket starts making itself more known. I don't believe in coincidences Pikachu. I've seen fate have a hand in things far too many times over the years for me to believe in it so no, they're connected somehow. And this presence here that's oppressing people is also connected. I just don't know how yet."

"I thought you didn't want to go looking for trouble?" Charmeleon asked sarcastically causing Ash to look sharply at him.

"This is very different. This is about searching for clues about my father's disappearance." Ash said seriously "I know that Lance and Goodshow are hiding something, I know the Elite Four are doing the same and I suspect Bruno leaked that information to me on purpose and is trying to help me. Why I don't know, maybe guilt, maybe justice. All I know is that if it takes my entire life to find out I will do so."

"Good" Charmeleon said shocking him "I'm not happy with what you said before, I'm far too much of a do-er to be able to sit back and let others do something I can do. I didn't evolve by accident Ash but this crusade for your father is something I'm fully behind and I will help however I can. You realise though that we will likely be going into places where Team Rocket has hidden information. Maybe infiltrating the league HQ too eventually."

"I do yes" Ash said "but this is too important to me and mum to let go. Someone knows something Charmeleon. And I will find out what."

At that moment his Pokégear rang startling them all. Looking at it he saw it was an unknown number. Answering he had to take the phone from his ear as the person on the other end was shouting down the phone.

"HELLO, IS THAT ASH? I really bloody hate these contraptions. HELLO? CAN YOU HEAR ME?" a woman's voice shouted.

"STOP SHOUTING DOWN THE BLOODY PHONE. TALK NORMALLY YOU MORON" Ash shouted back.

"Who are you calling a moron, young man? When I see you, I'll box your bloody ears" the voice asked at a more reasonable pitch,

"You, you cretin" Ash replied back "there was absolutely no need to scream down the phone."

"Well, I don't know how these bloody things work do I?" she asked "anyway is that Ash"

"Yeah, it is" Ash said shaking his head and looking at his team incredulously "this person doesn't know how to use a phone apparently. Who the hell doesn't know how to use a phone? You guys could do that!"

"I can hear you, you know" the voice said irritated.

"You were meant to" Ash retorted "now who are you?"

"Just wait until I see you. I'm the one being sent to help you out in Lavender Town" she said.

"Oh, bloody hell" Ash said pinching his nose "terrific. Why?"

"Because I'm an expert on that town young man and Ghost Pokémon. That's why!" she said, "I'll be there in the morning, 7am sharp" and with that she hung up.

"Great" Ash said shaking his head "it seems like we're getting someone who can't hear very well and is crap with technology to come and aid us. Come on guys, lets go to bed. The sooner we sleep, the sooner we wake up and the sooner we can bloody leave this place."

Chapter 13: Chapter 13- People huh?

Chapter Text

Chapter 13- The problem with people these days is…

The next morning Ash woke up at his normal time for 6am and went down to the centres Gym. Along the way he checked on a still sleeping Joy and took the key back. No doubt whoever was coming would enter through the front door. Going through their morning warm up routine Ash forgot the time; muscle memory took over and they were all well into their practice when Ash's pokegear rang.

"Hello" Ash said.

"I told you I would be there at 7am sharp, where are you?" the woman from yesterday said. Ash vaguely recalled that voice but wasn't certain who it was.

"I'm in the gym doing my morning workout" Ash said, "where are you?"

"I'll be at the centre in the next five minutes" she replied.

Looking at his watch he saw it was 7:10. "Well, you're already late as it is" Ash said irritated "don't give me 7am sharp if you're only going to get here at quarter past."

"Never mind that. I'm old, now come and open the door" the woman said hanging up.

Grumbling about senile old women, Ash packed up their gear and returned his Pokémon to their balls and made his way up the stairs to the front door. No sooner had he unlocked it than an old woman stormed past him grumbling about the weather. She was around 5 foot 2, greying blonde hair, dressed in a purple dress with a purple and grey shawl on her back, holding a cane topped with a Gengar head.

"Oh, you have got to be kidding me" Ash said recognising who she was.

"And just what is that supposed to mean, young man?" the old woman said irritated giving him the stink eye pointing her cane at him. "don't ignore me, Ash Ketchum. The rudeness of some people these days."

Ignoring her Ash made his way over to the video phone and punched in Sam's number. When it was picked up, he noticed there was no one on screen but he could hear a nervous tapping.

"Don't you hide from me Professor" Ash said irritated, "I know what you're doing."

"Ash!" Sam said jovially coming into the picture "how are you doing my boy?"

"Never mind 'my boy'. You sent me Agatha" Ash said deadpanned "Agatha."

"I can hear you, you know" Agatha shouted from the couches.

"You were meant to!" he shouted back. Turning to Sam he simply said "explain."

"Ash, I know you don't get on with her but she's an expert on the Pokémon Tower and Lavender Town." Sam said, "and shouldn't you have gotten over this by now?"

"She ordered her Gengar to give me nightmares when I was seven, professor" Ash said.

"You told me I needed to shave my moustache!" came Agatha's voice.

"And you still do!" Ash shouted back hearing her huff "why didn't you call to warn me?"

"Because you would have left Ash" Sam said patiently.

"You're damn right I would have" Ash said emphatically "you could have sent anyone else in the world, literally anyone but you sent her."

"I didn't send her Ash" Oak said, "my son did."

"Oh, did he now?" Ash asked.

"Well, he is champion Ash" Sam replied "Now, never mind all this. Agatha is the best there is concerning Lavender Town so I suggest you put whatever grievances you have to the side for now and work together. This business in Lavender Town has left a funny feeling in my stomach."

"Yeah, me too" Ash said remembering his conclusions last night "fine, but only until this is sorted out" hanging up he made his way over to Agatha and saw her sifting through the papers he left out last night.

"Doing a bit of research are you laddie?" she asked giving him a critical eye before wrinkling her nose "Fuji eh?"

"Yup, and what I concluded hasn't left me any happier" Ash said sitting opposite her.

"And what conclusion is that?" Agatha asked putting the article down glaring at the picture.

"That the Elite Four, Goodshow and Fuji have something to do with my dad's disappearance and its cover up" Ash said looking her dead in the eyes as she looked up sharply "too many things don't add up for my liking."

"You really think we had something to do with your dad's death?" Agatha asked shocked.

"Disappearance." Ash corrected her "And don't give me the shocked old woman routine Agatha. My father was declared dead extremely quickly after what happened at Cinnabar, the investigation was declared need to know only for the Elite Four and Goodshow. Someone wanted him out of the way and Team Rocket was a very convenient excuse. And the five of you know something and I suspect Blue does too. Now, I'm putting you on notice and you can tell the others this. You five have a year, two at the most before I challenge Blue for his position as Champion. And when I beat him, not if, when I beat him, I will expose the whole lot of you for what you've put my family through. Now, onto this. I have a feeling I know what's causing this and I have a feeling that you do to. So, let's not waste each-others time here. What do you know?"

Looking at him searchingly Agatha sighed and leaned back into the chair "regardless of what you believe I had nothing to do with what happened to your father. He was just as bratty as you are, but that's not a crime. I have not looked at the investigation records, I have no desire to either. What you seek you will not find from me. As for the issue in Lavender Town I suspect Fuji is involved somehow. He always was a slippery, oily man. The whole 'rescuer' thing he had here was a ruse to cover up what he truly is. A monster. When he was acquitted eleven years ago, I nearly resigned my position in protest. Bruno was the same and it was only Lorelei who convinced us to stay to try and make changes from the inside to make sure what happened on Cinnabar never happened again." Looking away at the window she continued quietly "I saw the failed experiments Ash in that lab before it was destroyed by the volcano. I saw what they tried to create using poor Mews fossil. Unfortunately, what I saw could not be used as evidence against Fuji and the bastard got away with it and was moved here to my birthplace. He wasn't the only one that should have hanged either. Soon you will face a man in battle who was Fuji's chief of staff on Cinnabar Island who was cleared of all wrongdoing because of the explosion erasing everything. He too should have been locked up. Sadly, though I don't have that power."

"There's very few trainers I have to face." Ash said shrewdly "and out of those trainers two are women I can eliminate them as you said "He". Which leaves Koga, Blaine and Giovanni. Yes, I did my research on the gym leaders and given Blaine lives on Cinnabar I'd guess it was him."

"I cannot confirm it either way Ash" Agatha said nodding at him "but be careful when you reach Cinnabar. Now, Lavender Town. What have you guessed the problem is."

"I suspect the failed experiments on Cinnabar did not all fail and that something survived." Ash said "Pikachu and I felt an extraordinarily strong presence while standing outside Cerulean Cave a few months ago. We felt a legendary Pokémon's power first hand with Zapdos less than a week ago. This was beyond that, by far. We went back near the cave the day after we arrived in Cerulean as we had to wait to have a gym battle due to the sister' shows and the presence had gone. When we arrived here yesterday evening, immediately as you cross the boundary into Lavender Town we felt something try to grip our minds. It was obviously unsuccessful. As an Aura wielder psychics have no power over us, so whatever is happening here has psychic power of some kind. I suspect your Ghosts are immune too?"

"We are" Agatha said "psychics fear two things. Aura and Ghosts. I suspect we will have a far better chance of putting an end to whatever is happening together so let's get started. The only place of significance in this town is the Tower and what better place to amplify a psychic hold than the top of that tower?" standing up Agatha waited for Ash to put away the papers in his rucksack and store it back in his room before she led the way out of the centre and through the streets heading to the tower that dominated the horizon. It was a massive spiral structure, standing over fifty feet high ending with an opened top that housed the funeral bell covered with a roof.

"It used to be a watchtower hundreds of years ago" Agatha said as they walked towards it "before it was converted into a hospital during the last war a hundred and fifty years ago. Many of the Pokémon who died in that war were cremated in the furnace here, its long since been disused but when the war ended people mourned the loss of so many Pokémon and converted it into a shrine to honour the dead. As such many ghost type Pokémon have taken up residence in here" which caused Ash to shiver "still scared of them huh?"

"Yes" As said tersely "you would be too if you woke up from a nightmare one night and found a glowing set of red eyes staring at you in the dark followed by a sinister laugh that echoed."

"Oh, you get used to it" Agatha said waving away his fear.

"Not when you're a child you don't" Ash said irritated "even now I sleep with my aura active looking for things in the dark. The only upside to your little prank was that it helped me become a stronger Aura user than anyone's ever been before."

"You're welcome" she said cheerfully cackling.

"It wasn't a thank you" Ash said wryly "are the doors meant to be padlocked?" he asked as they came up to the high fifteen-foot double doors.

"Yes" Agatha replied "as Fuji was the caretaker of this place and he went missing the police closed this off to the general public. Strangely we didn't hear of a single protest about it."

"I wonder why" Ash asked sarcastically "it couldn't have anything to do with something controlling the inhabitants of the town could it?"

"Quite possibly" Agatha said ignoring his sarcasm.

"Well, I'm not standing here all day" Ah said "Pi, use Iron Tail on the padlock" one flash later and the chain fell away.

"Or" Agatha said pulling out a key on a necklace "we could have used the key? Your impatience will be the death of you young man" she finished as she put the key into the lock and opened the door. Immediately the smell of must permeated the air all around them. Inside was eerily gloomy and dusty, only the high vaulted windows lit the way for them as they walked up the stairs leading to the higher floors.

"Now Ash" Agatha said "be careful, not everything that resides here has nice thoughts of the living. Some spirits here are quite malevolent. The stairs are located opposite each other on the floors for going up so we will have to cross every floor to get to them. Gengar, Haunter come forth" she cried as two big purple ghosts came out of her pokeballs.

Pointing Dexter at them he scanned them.

"Haunter, Pokedex Number 93, The Gas Pokémon, and the evolved form of Gastly. This Pokémon is male. In total darkness, where nothing is visible, Haunter lurks, silently stalking its next victim. By licking, it saps the victim's life. It causes shaking that won't stop until the victim's demise.

Gengar, Pokedex Number 94, The Shadow Pokémon, and the evolved form of Haunter. This Pokémon is female. Under a full moon, this Pokémon likes to mimic the shadows of people and laugh at their fright. Hiding in people's shadows at night, it absorbs their heat. The chill it causes makes the victims shake."

"Wow" Ash said, "they are impressive, it has to be said. It's not bloody wrong about Gengar though."

"I'll take that as a compliment." Agatha said "Haunter, Gengar go and scout the area. A psychic user has the town under their control, and we believe they're hiding here in this tower. search them out but do not engage. Come find us and let us know if you find anything" at that they both cackled and melted into the shadows causing Ash to shiver.

"Guys come on out" Ash said releasing the other three "we're inside Pokémon Tower searching for whomever is trying to control us. Be on guard guys, this is very real." They all nodded as they kept on walking, constantly searching their surroundings.

As they reached the third floor Ash sent out an aura pulse and something dinged. "Guys," Ash said quietly so only they and Agatha could hear. "On our five, eight and eleven. When I say so Flamethrower, Ice Beam and Razor Leaf. Pi, directly above us, Thunderbolt. No holding back guys. I'll keep you updated on their location, but we aren't playing around here. When I drop down to tie my lace, hit them hard." Agatha kept quiet, happy to observe him in action. After going up another floor, with Ash giving them constant updates Ash saw that the room was more open than the last one. "We hit them in here guys. Be ready" Ash murmured. Walking twenty feet into the room Ash quickly ducked down and the room lit up with various attacks, followed by many pained cries. Standing up Ash cast an Aura Sphere at the nearest target blasting it into the wall where it fell unconscious. Walking over to it he noticed it wasn't a Kanto Pokémon. Pointing Dexter at it he beeped

"Duskull, Pokedex Number 355, The Requiem Pokémon, this Pokémon is female. Duskull wanders lost among the deep darkness of midnight. There is an oft-told admonishment given to misbehaving children that this Pokémon will spirit away bad children who earn scolding's from their mothers."

"What the hell is a Duskull doing in Kanto?" Ash asked.

"This is a ghost tower Ash" Agatha said walking over "I'd imagine many ghost types can be found in here if you look hard enough. She's a beauty, isn't she?" she finished crouching down groaning as she stood back up, she noticed all his other Pokémon gripping their attackers and dragging them to Ash.

"Well, well, well. There is something I did not expect to see" she said walking over to Charmeleon and looking at who he'd caught. Gently picking it up she cradled it as if it were a baby. Pointing Dexter, it bleeped again.

"Litwick, Pokedex Number 607, the Candle Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. Litwick shines a light that absorbs the life energy of people and Pokémon, which becomes the fuel that it burns."

"Wow. Again, I never expected to find a ghost type from another region in here" Ash said looking at the others seeing Squirtle and Bulbasaur carrying a Cubone and a Gastly.

"Gastly, Pokedex Number 92, the Gas Pokémon, This Pokémon is male. Almost invisible, this gaseous Pokémon cloaks the target and puts it to sleep without notice."

"See that I expected to find. Cubone too given they're often found crying over their mothers' graves." Ash commented "The other two though? Not even slightly"

"She's adorable Ash. Are you after a ghost type?" Agatha asked. Seeing him shake his head she took out a Pokéball and caught it. Walking over to Duskull she did the same thing to her too. "I'm always up for catching ghosties" she said cackling.

Ignoring her Ash decided that it would be best to carry on with their job. "Come on, we've got a malevolent prankster to find. Well done guys but I want to leave this place" Ash said walking over to the stairs and carrying on with his climb. The next few flights of stairs kept Ash on edge as he had found nothing. "isn't this place supposed to be teeming with ghosts?" he asked Agatha.

"It's daytime Ash." Agatha said shaking her head "Don't you know that Ghosts only really come out at night. I suspect the ones you attacked were simply curious about who you were. You're safer than you think."

Shaking his head Ash carried on until suddenly a Gengar appeared directly in front of him. Ash reacted on instinct and Aura punched it sending it flying back. "Hey," Agatha shouted "there was no need for that. That's my Gengar you just hit."

"Good" Ash said "that's the second time she's pulled that crap on me. Did you really think I wouldn't recognise my night-time tormentor?"

Ignoring him Agatha went over to her stunned Gengar and started cooing over her. Shaking his head Ash could only watch on in disbelief as Agatha 'kissed the boo-boo' and asked what she knew. Listening in Gengar told Agatha that she could only get so far before a barrier had stopped her. Frowning Ash wondered what that could mean.

"What can stop a ghost from going through walls and barriers?" Ash asked out loud.

"Nothing good Ash" Agatha said returning Gengar "a few dark types immediately spring to mind, maybe a stronger ghost type too."

"Stronger than your Gengar?" Ash asked in disbelief "your Gengar?"

"Yes Ash" Agatha said "believe it or not we Elite Four are still just trainers at the end of the day. Don't forget your dad and Blue beat us, a few others have done the same over the years. We're not unbeatable."

"Yeah, but they're trained Pokémon who are given commands and strategy." Ash replied "This is a wild Pokémon, it has to be. No ghost types would suffer a trainers Pokémon to take over their tower, not without putting up a fight."

"Unless that Pokémon was a ghost too" Agatha said.

"There are only two Ghost/Dark types known Agatha" Ash said seriously "Sableye and Spiritomb. Sableye I can deal with. Spiritomb are horrible to battle. I've seen Cynthia's in action. Very few people get past it."

"Then we better hope it's not that" Agatha said walking on. Eventually they reached the final staircase and found the barrier Gengar was talking about. Testing it with his Aura he found that his hand went straight through it. Doing the same Agatha tried and was shocked for her troubles.

"Ouch" she said shaking her hand "looks like only an Aura user can pass through Ash." Nodding Ash prepared to walk though before a wrinkled hand stopped him "I don't like this. There is a reason I was sent here Ash, to find the issue and deal with it and I don't like that you may have to face whatever it is alone."

"I won't be alone" Ash said looking at Pikachu "but it seems this is a task I must do. Now I'll try and weaken the barrier from within so as soon as I get it down feel free to join me."

"Good luck then young man" Agatha said leaning on her cane. Nodding Ash infused his body with Aura and walked right through the barrier. On the other side was pure darkness, but Ash could feel the presence that tried to control him try again. Rebuffing it he heard a screech of anger from above. Looking up he noticed a ladder in the centre of the floor leading up to what looked like a loft hatch. Climbing up he exited and found himself on the top of the tower overlooking Lavender Town. The top was maybe thirty feet in diameter, with a massive Bell in the very middle but attached to the bell was a strange sort of device that was emitting a strange black glow. Ash didn't get much chance to observe the surroundings before a wicked black jet came scything towards him. Deflecting it he turned around and swore.

"Shit" he said shaking his head "it's a Spiritomb" calling out everyone he ordered them to attack and not hold back. Occasionally joining in when he could they began to chip away at the Spiritomb. It was incredibly annoying though because in between moves it would use Pain Split and share damage with Ash's Pokémon and recover its health back. "Guys this is taking way too long" Ash said after half an hour of battling. Everyone was exhausted, battered and bruised. The Spiritomb wasn't in a much better position though. "I think we all need to surround it and attack at the same time. I noticed that it always tried its best to protect its keystone whenever one of you got too close to it to damage it. Maybe that's its weak spot."

Spiritomb had evidently been listening in as it screeched in anger at Ash's words and started launching Dark Pulses and Shadow Balls at them all. After a few minutes of sending attacks back and forth Ash finally saw them all in position and shouted "Now, your strongest attack. Go" the group complied and Spiritomb was hit from all sides and groaned in pain from the impact. "Pi, Iron Tail it back into its keystone" Pikachu raced to it at top speed and smashed into its face causing it to faint and disappear back into its keystone. Ash reacted without thinking knowing it couldn't be left here and threw a pokeball at the keystone, it shook several times before it went silent, and they all collapsed on the ground as one exhausted. After several minutes Ash returned them all and walked over to the Pokeball containing his newest capture picking it up. Scanning it Dexter beeped.

"Spiritomb, Pokedex Number 442, The Forbidden Pokémon. This Pokémon is male. A Pokémon that was formed by 108 spirits. Its constant mischief and misdeeds resulted in it being bound to an Odd Keystone by a mysterious spell. This Pokémon knows the moves Sucker Punch, Psychic, Pain Split, Shadow Ball, Dark Pulse, Memento, Hypnosis, Dream Eater, Curse and Confuse Ray."

"I'm not sure I want to keep this Pikachu." Ash said holding the still pokeball "these things are not good news regardless of how powerful this is. Come on, let's get back to Agatha."

Walking back down the ladder and stairs he found the barrier had gone but strangely so had Agatha. Wondering what had happened to her Ash began the long trek down to the bottom. Walking to the door he heard three voices outside. Opening it he saw Agatha talking to another two people and a Lucario. Ash instantly recognised one of them, the other made him raise his barriers instantly. "Psychic" Ash snarled stalking forward.

"An aura user?" the tall man asked turning to Agatha "why was I not warned of this thing being here?"

"Be mindful of who you call a 'thing' abomination." Ash said, "You're lucky I'm tired or I'd have blasted you into the next town for that comment."

"Enough" the other person said. "There is no need for fighting. Now, shall we be civilised and introduce ourselves."

"Very well" the man sniffed as though he rather do anything but "I am Lucian Azakami, final member of the Sinnoh Elite Four and Master Psychic."

"I am Cynthia Shirona, Champion of Sinnoh" Cynthia said smiling.

"I am Junior Professor Ash Satoshi Ketchum, son of Pokémon Master Red Ketchum, the next Champion of the Kanto League, Aura master and all round pissed off guy. Pleased to meet one of you" Ash said making Agatha cackle and the Lucario stiffen up. Looking at it, Ash asked "problem?"

"Why do you deny your destiny?" Lucario asked.

"And who says I'm denying my destiny? You? Ilene?" Ash asked sarcastically. "I think you'll find that my destiny lies elsewhere than bowing and scraping before a Queen who's full of her own self-importance."

"At least we agree on that" Lucian mumbled.

"I wouldn't talk if I were you abomination" Ash said looking at him. "Your kind are just as bad to me."

"How dare you" Lucario said advancing on Ash who immediately shifted his feet into a defensive stance and Pikachu to spark warningly.

"Try me Lucario. You obviously know who I am. Since the age of six to eleven I was trained in Aura combat by the Rota Lucario. The last year of that not a single Lucario was able to pin me down or beat me. So, I repeat, try me."

"No one will be trying anything" Cynthia said walking between them "Lucario, stand down. Now I don't know what your issue is Mr Ketchum, but I won't be part of it."

"I have no issue with you Miss Shirona. Just your choice in traveling companions" Ash said standing back up straight "if you have no idea why I suggest you talk to your Lucario about it. Now, why are you here?"

"She's here because of me, thing" Lucian said icily "I received a call last night saying a powerful Psychic presence was found to have taken hold of Lavender Town and Sabrina was unable to deal with it in person. Cynthia just happened to overhear it and asked to come along."

"I was bored" she said smiling "and when your name was mentioned I wanted to meet you, Ash. I've read a lot of your essays and thesis' in my research over the last few years. Of course, up until a few months ago we had no idea you were so young."

"Oh right" Ash said "well usually I'm in a lot better mood than I am now. Having to battle for my life on top of a tower and then being close to that over there puts me on edge" he finished nodding at Lucian who snarled.

"Why don't you like each other? You don't even know each other" Cynthia asked frowning.

"I will tell you later Cynthia" Lucian said giving Ash a glare.

"Don't believe the spoon-bender, Miss Shirona" Ash said snorting "his kind only deal in manipulation of the mind and facts. What it boils down to is the Great War eight hundred years ago. During that time a pitched battle was being fought between Aura users and Psychics. Aura Guardians fought to keep the balance of the world and joined the liberation side; Psychics wanted control of everyone and everything in it and joined the Ancients hoping for a slice of their pie when they won. They lost. And it's the reason you will never find an Aura wielder with a psychic type Pokémon. You see a psychic is an off shoot of an aura user who has manipulated their aura to such a degree that they corrupted who they are and what they originally fought for. The psychics lost because they forgot that aura makes up and surrounds literally everything in the world. They cannot manipulate the world around them anymore, so they try to alter the reality of it instead. Sadly though, while they lost the battle back then they eventually won the war of right now. And it wasn't because of anything they did. And that irritates them."

"What do you mean Ash?" Agatha asked interested "and why does no one know this?"

"It's yet another mark against that clown running Cameron Palace and her ancestors" Ash said causing the Lucario to snarl and Ash to simply raise an eyebrow at it. "Psychics will eventually win because of the one big drawback of being an Aura wielder. We mate for life, and we don't always find our mate. Once we reach sexual maturity our aura is constantly sending out signals hoping to find its match. A lot of times the person we match is already taken or we never find them so we die alone."

"You should not be telling them this" Lucario said furiously.

"Oh, shut up" Ash said "you are part of the bloody problem. You're too caught up in the 'tradition' and 'nobility' of being an aura user to realise that we're facing extinction. Like those fools in Rota, you're content to stick your head in the sand. Well, I'm not. And Queen Ilene will never have a Ketchum as a servant." turning back to Agatha he continued "I was told five years ago by the Queens right hand man Riley that there were only around seventeen Aura guardians left in the world. That's not to say there's only seventeen Aura users, no but many don't know how to access it and so it goes unused. That's why psychics have the advantage. There are schools that actively search for them from birth but Rota decided in its infinite wisdom to just keep a select group in their kingdom to train, and once they reached a certain number stopped doing so. Only once a guardian dies is one trained to take his or her place. I'm actually writing a book about it which should be out in the next year sometime, hopefully before the Indigo League takes place. Anyway, back to the issue here today. I've sorted it for now."

"For now?" Cythina asked shaking her head out of its stupor.

"Yes" Ash said "but I don't believe the situation is over. There's no way what I fought was the main cause of what happened here. It's simply not powerful enough, that and it's not a Psychic type. Something manipulated events and the Pokémon I fought was being used. Fuji wasn't there either so he's still out there somewhere." chucking the Pokéball at Agatha who caught it "I believe you also said you are always looking for new ghosties? Have a Spiritomb. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a nurse to see and Pokémon to heal. I'll be at the Pokémon centre if you need me. Oh, and remember what I said this morning Agatha, I will expose you all as soon as I take Blues place. All five of you are on a timer."

With that Ash marched off in the direction of the Pokémon centre. As he passed houses, he saw people leaving them looking lost and marvelling at the world around them. They had obviously woken from whatever spell was cast on the town via Spiritomb. Ignoring everyone who looked at the state of him he walked into the centre and saw Joy behind the counter looking much better than she did the night before. Before he could react, he was swept up in her arms and smothered in kisses. "Thank you, thank you, thank you" she said causing people who had come into the centre to mutter amongst themselves "that was the best night I've had in a long time Ash. And it's all thanks to you" which caused scandalous gasps.

"Er, you're welcome" Ash said finally freeing himself "you clearly needed it, and I was able to help you out, so I did."

"I did" Joy said happily returning to her counter "it had been such a long time, and it was exactly what I needed."

"Good" Ash said "can you take care of my Pokémon please. We've just been in a battle that put a stop to what was causing the town such grief. It originated from Pokémon Tower. Someone was using a Pokémon's psychic power and amplifying it from the top of the tower which caused everyone's insomnia. My Pokémon are a little banged up though."

"Oh Ash" Joy said coming back around the counter and kissing him repeatedly again "you're my hero twice!"

Shaking his head Ash walked up to his room, walked over to the video phone and called his mum and Sam.

"Hi Ash. Judging by your appearance it looks like you and Agatha managed to sort whatever the issue was in Lavender Town" Delia said.

"Yeah, thanks again for sending her Sam" Ash said deadpanned "she's still an absolute delight. And no, I managed to sort it out, Agatha wasn't there at the end. A Psychic barrier stopped her from being able to confront what was causing the issue. It was a Spiritomb."

"A Spiritomb?" Sam asked concernedly "what was one of those doing in Kanto?"

"No idea, but it was a bugger to battle and beat. We managed it eventually but I gave it to Agatha. I have no intention of keeping one of those things" Ash said shivering.

"Good choice Ash" Sam said, "like your fossil I would have to prohibit you keeping one until you had at least eight badges and a league behind you."

"Why" Delia asked, "and what fossil?"

"Oh, I'm sorry" Ash said walking over to his bag and pulling out the Old Amber. Showing it to his mum he explained where he got it and why he had to give it up when it is revived. "In all the excitement around Mt Moon I completely forgot I had it and that I hadn't told you about it. They're vicious, only know how to kill and are very unpredictable. They're perfect killing machines who forget to differentiate between prey and ally. I told Sam way back then in Pewter City I didn't want it on my team. Now I'm more experienced I still don't want it on my team. So, I'm giving it to Lance when I reach Cinnabar, I gave Agatha the Spiritomb for the same reason. At the same time, I met three individuals who joined her at the base of the tower. One was Champion Cynthia, the other was her Lucario and the last was her psychic elite Lucian" he finished distastefully.

"A psychic?" Delia asked hiding her mouth covering her smile.

"Oh dear" Sam said doing the same thing.

"Laugh it up guys" Ash said breaking them as they started howling with laughter.

"I take it you remember then Sam?" Delia asked wiping away tears.

"If you mean Red breaking that guys nose for daring to talk to you then yes" Sam said laughing.

"I was so angry at him for doing it" she said chuckling "he literally did nothing wrong apart from help me stand up while I was pregnant."

"It was lucky the guy feared him to be honest" Sam said "and when Red told me a few days later what the deal is between Aura users and Psychics I just laughed. The guy didn't even know he had psychic powers, did he?"

"No" Delia said shaking her head "he didn't, but he mentioned he was trying to become one. It was only when Red explained to me what the issue was that I got it. He took his role as an Aura wielder very seriously Ash, just like you do and it seems you have his distaste for them."

"I do" Ash said "they're an abomination mum. I know you don't like me being rude about people but this is something hardwired into Aura users worldwide."

"Ash" Sam said "you are aware who you'll be facing soon, right?"

"Yes" Ash said wrinkling his nose in disgust "Sabrina the Saffron City gym leader. Hopefully I can be in and out of that place."

"I wouldn't count on it Ash" Sam said seriously "she's quite possibly the strongest psychic outside of the Elite four in the world. Like you she realised her powers when she was a child and became a prodigy. She's now seventeen and is a very good gym leader."

"I'm not worried about her professor" Ash said "she needs to worry about me."

"That kind of arrogance can lead to overconfidence and a loss" Sam said frowning.

"Professor we're looking for a loss" Ash said shocking him "do me a favour and look up my trainer profile while you're on here. Look at my battle count."

Confused Sam typed in Ash's information and he brought up the page so they could all see. There beside his picture was his win/loss column. Hearing Sam gasp out loud when he saw it let Ash know he had made an impact. 176 Sanctioned Battles, 176 wins 0 losses. 104 unsanctioned battles, 103 wins, 1 loss.

"Wow Ash" his mum said impressed "you're quite the trainer aren't you. 280 battles and only one loss?"

"Yeah, but the loss doesn't count mum" Ash said. Seeing her confused face, he continued "that loss was against Brock when I had already gained his badge. He wanted to test me, so he sent out one of his Elites that are usually only used after someone has already been through a league and wanted to do the Elite round of challenges. At this point I'd only been a trainer around a month. His Golem battered us in one move, which is what we all expected. And as it wasn't an official battle, more an additional challenge that I could have said no to it goes down as unsanctioned and obviously as a loss. We wanted to see how far we had to go at the time we faced Golem. Pikachu would now give it a good challenge at this point and might win. So, you see professor we're all looking to lose, but not throw the battle. We're not making mistakes in battle, so we can't correct anything afterwards. Our training is well beyond what's normal according to Bruno which is why we're so strong. I won't lose to Sabrina professor, but we really wouldn't mind a loss."

"Your mum is correct Ash" Sam said after a few moments of silence "not even your father had a perfect record at your point. Anyway, I have to go now Ash, my tea is due to arrive soon along with my Granddaughter. See you both soon" and he hung up.

"I'm glad he's left us Mum" Ash said seriously "I have something I need to talk to you about, but I'd rather talk properly in person. I'm going to scan some documents to you when I hang up along with some information that I received a few days ago off Bruno and I want you to have a look at them, make notes and then when we're on the SS Anne we'll compare our thoughts. It's about Dad."

"What about him Ash?" Delia asked frowning "why can't you tell me over the phone?"

"Walls have ears mum" he replied "please, just trust me on this. I should be in Saffron in around eight days, two weeks tops. I'll likely spend a few days there while I get the badge and have a look in Silph, there's a convention happening I want a look at. After that I'll be getting the overnight bus to Vermillion so all-in-all I should be there in three weeks, the SS Anne comes into port around then."

"Ok Ash" Delia said "I'll look over the papers and do as you ask. Sam has said I can use Dragonite to get to Vermillion so I should be there in just over two weeks' time."

"Ok mum" he said "I'll have a look at hotels now for you and book one for you so I'll send you your reservation details via email when I'm done. Bye mum, I love you lots."

"I love you too sweetie" Delia said hanging up.

Standing up Ash went to the scanner next to the printer and scanned everything to his email address and forwarded it on to his mum. He would keep the copies himself he decided as they were covered in his scribbles from last night. Looking up hotels he booked a suite overlooking Vermillion harbour for the two of them that had adjoining rooms and sent his mum the details. Walking downstairs he felt like he was being watched as he crossed the floor and spoke to Joy. Picking up his team he sent out an aura pulse and received a ping back. He was definitely being observed. Ignoring it he went back to his room, packed up his belongings and left, not before getting another hug off Joy. With a smile on his face Ash happily left Lavender Town. It would be too soon the next time he had to visit it he thought as he began walking down Route 8.

Chapter 14: Chapter 14- Life Lessons

Chapter Text

Chapter 14- Life lessons on the road

A few days later walking down the road Ash and his team were still talking about what happened in Lavender Town. All of them were relieved when Ash told them about giving Spiritomb away, it had been a nightmare to battle, and having to battle it all the time to keep it under control wasn't something they wanted to do.

"It sure put up a hell of a fight" Charmeleon said "but it didn't seem that strong."

"It wasn't" Ash agreed "but something was controlling it, forcing it to be angry, so it just couldn't feel pain when we attacked. That's why we had to force it back into its keystone and then capture it."

"Do we have any idea what was controlling it?" Bulbasaur asked.

"I believe it was whatever was in Cerulean Cave" Ash said "I have no proof though, but there's no way a Spiritomb can pull off entrancing an entire town on its own. Especially considering the black box that was attached to it."

"What happened to it?" Pikachu asked, "in the melee I didn't see what happened to it."

Reaching into his pocket Ash pulled out the little box "I took it. It seems to be some kind of transceiver, the little light that's red was green. So, whatever was using it was using it remotely."

"Is it safe to just be carrying it around like that?" Squirtle asked warily "I mean, you remember what it does right?"

"Yeah, it's perfectly safe for us" Ash said pocketing it again "don't forget, we weren't affected by it to start with. Not only that but the antenna it was attached to was broken in the fight so at the minute it's just a funky little box. I'm gonna take it apart when we get to Saffron. See what I can find out from it."

"You can do that?" Squirtle asked surprised.

"Yeah" Ash said chuckling "I don't know if you know this Squirtle but I'm kind of a genius. I've been taking apart and fixing mechanical issues in electronics for years now. I managed to help upgrade Professor Oaks transfer system a few years ago with a little device I came up with. I didn't want to take any credit for it, so Sam and Bill claimed it was their collaboration and I'm just fine with that. It helps me out now, and I have enough fame as it is. Sam, Bill, and I know who helped and that's enough for me. This just looks like a standard transceiver but if I can figure out where the ignition part is of the internal antenna, I may be able to re-use it to find out where the master one is. It could be impossible though, but I won't know until I try."

"Wow" Squirtle said "can you teach me?"

"Well, I can do" Ash began "but you don't have opposable thumbs. They're kind of vital for precision grip, so I don't know what you'll be able to do. I tell you what, I'll ask mum to bring a few things from my room when she sees us, and I'll let you tinker."

"Thanks Ash" he replied happily "when I used to steal things, I was always fascinated by the gadgets my team managed to get. I never knew what they did so it would be nice to be able to actually know what they did in future."

"Well, none of you have come to me about outside interests yet" Ash began "we won't be battling until we die, and we won't always be together so there must be other things you guys are interested in."

"Flowers" Bulbasaur piped up immediately "I love flowers, I love arranging flowers and help nurture new life. I would love my own garden."

"Speak to mum" Ash said immediately "she's an avid gardener. For years she's cross-bred different species of plants. She's even wrote a few books on the subject so that's a very doable thing. Plus, when I do eventually settle down, I'm going to have a big garden to just enjoy my old age. There really is nothing like sitting down in a park, surrounded by nature and just letting the world go on by."

"Ash" Charmeleon said slowly "what do you mean we won't be together forever?"

Looking up at the sky he noticed that the sun was beginning to set. "Let's set up camp for the evening and we'll all talk then. Can some of you guys go find some firewood while we set up?"

A few hours later after they had all eaten Ash brought up the subject again. "Right, I guess there's been a bit of concern about how I worded it before. Charmeleon, let me ask you this. Professor Oak is in his late fifties which means be became a trainer well over forty years ago so how many of his original team do you think he still has on hand?"

"Well, you've mentioned a Dragonite and a Charizard. I don't know about the rest as you haven't told us." Charmeleon said thinking out loud.

"You know what, that's fair" Ash said "in his career as a Pokémon trainer Oak became Champion at age 24 and gave it up less than six months later because of a tragedy that took the lives of two of his Pokémon. He decided in the aftermath to become a full-time professor as well as a full-time dad. He caught only eight Pokémon in his training career. He had the three starters, Venusaur, Charizard and Blastoise, he caught a Nidoking and a Dragonite, an Eevee which became a Flareon, a Pikachu which became a Raichu and last but not least he had an Alakazam. The only ones which are still with him are Charizard, Raichu and Dragonite. Blastoise left to form his own colony just outside Cinnabar, his offspring are what become other's starters. Venusaur and Nidoking died trying to rescue some Pokémon from a burning building when it collapsed on them both which caused him to lose his appetite for battling. Charizard now has his own family and lives in the mountains, not at his lab, Flareon died of old age a few years ago and Alakazam works at the league with other Alazakam and Blue Oak helping to come up with new technology. Raichu and Dragonite are the only other ones on site at the lab at all times.

So, you see that's what I meant. Bulbasaur will likely want to tend a garden when we're done with battling, Squirtle is interested in technology so may decide to do so elsewhere. You Charmeleon may decide you want to go round the world challenging Legendaries to prove how tough you are, and Pikachu may decide he's just done with battling and want to rest. On the flip side you may all have families, want to live with them and look after them and that's just as an admirable goal as anything else. I may never find my destined mate, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't be happy for you guys if you did. It's just one of many things that we're going to have to eventually think about. We all have different reasons for doing what we're doing. We may all have the same goal for now, but eventually? Who knows?"

"I see what you mean" Charmeleon said "thanks for clearing it up, Ash. And how did you know what my dream is?"

"What do you mean?" Pikachu asked intrigued.

"Well Ash got it spot on" he replied "my dream is to become a legend amongst legends. I want to attain Legendary Pokémon status as a normal Pokémon."

"Is that possible" Bulbasaur asked confused.

"It depends on who you ask" Ash said "in the Pokedex, no. in the real world, certainly. My fathers Charizard was legendary as is Professor Oaks. I don't think either of those challenged actual Legendaries an it won't be from us that he gets that designation though. You can never call yourself the greatest of all time. You can think it, sure. But that's for others to decide and it's always subjective even then. But if that's your dream Charmeleon I'll help you out as much as I can. So that's Bulbasaur and Charmeleon who know what they want later in life. How about you two?" he asked looking at Pikachu and Squirtle.

"You already know mine Ash" Pikachu said "I want Rock types to fear electric types. I want to go down in history as the electric Pokémon that changed the game and how a 'little mouse' destroyed the myths of Rock and Ground types invulnerability".

"And after that?" Ash asked.

"Not a clue" Pikachu said shrugging "I suspect something will come along at the right time. How about you Squirtle?"

"I haven't a clue" Squirtle said pulling out his sunglasses and looking at them "In a way I'm very envious that you all have goals. For the longest time my life was dominated by thoughts of revenge against Pokémon trainers, especially those who were happy. I once lived a very pampered life. My owner, not my trainer, my owners' parents bought me from a day-care because I was literally a bright shiny new toy for him to play with when he got bored of his last one. I saw the procession of others come and go and thought that would never be me. A shiny Squirtle is rare and so that was my value to him. Until one day he had an argument with another snobby rich kid and agreed to settle it in a battle. He put me against a Weepingbell and asked me to use moves I'd never been taught. Obviously, I got my shell handed to me and then I was abandoned because I made him lose and look stupid in front of his friend. I was dumped outside a small village near Vermillion City by him with nothing but a broken Pokéball. I had no life skills like wild Pokémon are taught by their parents, couldn't forage for myself because I didn't know what I could and could not eat so I was essentially left to die. But then I remembered walking through Vermillion with him once and seeing the shops that were full of food, so I resorted to stealing.

Weirdly I was really good at it, and it soon became a game to me because I knew every escape road out of the village and could do so quickly. And then I found another Squirtle one day when I was going back to my hiding place. He saw that I could get food easily and took me back to the cave where I saw the other three Squirtle's. Seeing them brought all the anger and rage back from my original owner and I vowed that I wouldn't let any of them suffer again. I quickly became the leader of the gang because I was bigger, faster and knew more than them. They accepted me as the leader and so we began our reign of terror. When the shops began to get more lethal, we decided that passing trainers would be a more lucrative project and so began waylaying them. We did this for around three months and had never failed until one day we attacked the wrong person. Within thirty seconds my entire team had been beaten and captured effortlessly too. I was so mad. I had promised them that I would protect them from being subjected to being a trainers Pokémon ever again and I failed that because we, no I, got too cocky. It took me a while to get over that. Even now I feel guilty because I don't know how they're doing."

"I'm sure they're doing well" Ash said, "Jenny is a good person."

"I'm sure she is Ash" Squirtle said sadly "but it doesn't stop the guilt. So, to answer your original question I have no idea what I want to do. I'm just taking things a day at a time at the moment."

"And that's perfectly fine" Ash said reassuringly "Outside of becoming Champion and finishing Arceus' task I have no idea what I want to do either. I suppose the future will bring whatever it will bring. As for the rest I will do whatever I can to help you achieve your dreams. Now, it's getting late. We've made really good progress so we may get into Saffron earlier than usual. It's still at least four days away though."

The next day after training Ash walked away so he couldn't be heard and made a phone call. Receiving the answer he was after he helped pack up and they continued on their way, battling the occasional trainer and chatting about anything and everything.

"Ash" Charmeleon asked a day outside Saffron "what's your issues with Psychics? I mean, we're getting nearer to Saffron now and its gym leader is a psychic trainer. Are we going to have to make you keep your focus? Because I have to say for the last few days you've made nothing but bad remarks regarding them whenever they're brought up, and while I'm happy to go along with your views at times this one is puzzling me."

Sighing Ash knew he was right "It's something I struggle to explain to non-aura users. According to my mum my father was the same. It actually ties in with the Ancient we found a few months ago outside Vermillion. You see when the Great War happened between the Ancients and the Liberators Aura users and Psychics joined opposite sides. They were once like me and wielded Aura for the betterment of humanity and Pokémon alike. That was until a particularly powerful Aura user called Malokei became their leader. He decided that he wasn't happy with what the Aura Guardians were doing, constantly saving Pokémon from dying and serving royalty at their leisure and not ours so he decided to take as many like minded people as he could and created his own guild. There were many who believed like he did and he experimented trying to use Aura to serve his purpose and not the other way around.

The man and his companions eventually succeeded after many failed experiments and was able to use Aura to manipulate minds. But they experimented too much and corrupted Aura in a way that's never been done since and for good reason. You see Aura makes up literally everything inside and outside us. It's in our bones, our atoms and in the very air we breathe. Pokémon use it every day, it's the essence of what shapes your attacks. Corrupting it affects everything around you when you use it. Malokei either forgot that or ignored it and created his own army, formed up of hundreds of people whose minds they had taken over with their new creation. And they waged war against the Aura users. The irony is that the new manipulated power he created had no effect on natural aura users and so they were quickly losing the battles. Aura users had the ability to shape the very air around them into anything they wanted, Psychics as they became known could only alter the aura but couldn't keep it constrained in any shape. The structures Aura users made in battle were far superior to the ones Psychics used as they didn't change the very fabric of what made them whereas Psychic power only altered the reality of them.

They got battered in the war, fled and then they found another cause that suited them; the Ancients vs The Liberators. I won't go too much into that one, but the psychics saw their chance to regain some form of power and joined the Ancients who were revered as Gods. I mean, how can a God lose? Well, it turns out that Ancients weren't Gods, they just believed they were and so eventually they lost the Great War. The psychics were all but destroyed by Aura users. Very few remained but over the centuries they regained their losses while the Aura Guardians dwindled. They still don't dare start another war as there's many things around now that can combat them. Psychics fear us because they cannot manipulate our minds in any way, which means they cannot control us. But Aura users have never forgotten or forgiven what Malokei and his people did to the world. They've also not forgiven them for assassinating the Queen of Rota a few centuries ago by ensnaring her sons mind and committing Regicide. It's tied into our very DNA to reject them. They are an abomination, a cancer on the world but sadly, it's not one we're allowed to cut out because there are too many of them. I wish I could" he finished.

"Wow" Charmeleon said "so that's why you're so angry at them."

"It's more than that Charmeleon" Ash said shaking his head "it's not something I can control or learn to control either. It's part of my very makeup. Now, I have nothing against Psychic Pokémon. They were created by the All-maker as they are and like myself, they can't help who they are. And Psychic Pokémon didn't get involved in the war and be on just one side. They were on both. It's a shame really that the abominations used their types as a collective name for themselves and virtually lumped them in the same boat simply because they could talk telepathically. But psychics, even to this day have the option of being an aura user or a psychic when they begin their training. They get to decide and still choose poorly."

"So, you don't want us to believe what you do?" Squirtle asked slowly

"No, this is my own personal gripe" Ash said shaking his head "this is part of who I am. I want you guys to decide these things on their own merits and on what people and Pokémon do to you personally. If a psychic never harms you maliciously then I won't complain when you tell me so. Just know it's not something I can or even want to control. Now, for your original point Charmeleon, I plan to be in and out of Saffron inside two days. I want Sabrina done and dusted the first day so that the next day we can enjoy the conventions in Silph.

So, to that end I will be teaching you a move called Shadow Claw" he said pulling out a page he had printed off. "I should really have begun this as soon as we left Lavender Town, but I forgot, so that's on me. I don't expect you to master it, but the basics will give you an advantage against a psychic Pokémon's grip. Sadly, the rest of you can't learn it so we'll come up with other strategies. Squirtle, I want you to start trying to use attacks while you're in your shell. It would give you a significant advantage in battle. Bulbasaur you've managed to get Sludge made but not mastered, now we just need a way of launching it. Failing that we run around and leave them in places. It also may not be a move you can master in your current form, but we will try our best. We're going to start on Solarbeam soon as you've not got a ranged attack like the others. Pi, Thunder is your next move. We've been experimenting with the Light Ball a lot and I've figured that it doesn't give you that much of a boost really. Maybe ten percent, which is better than nothing I suppose. So, what I want you to do is build up your electricity and let it out once you can no longer hold it. Without the Light Ball hopefully we can carry on building up your reserves that way. We'll start those tomorrow and we should reach Saffron by tomorrow evening. Let's go guys."

The next day passed by very quickly and in the late afternoon Ash walked into the City of Saffron and his senses were immediately assaulted. It wasn't the same oppressor as Lavender, but whatever it was was fairly powerful. Giving a mental shove the presence was violently ejected. "Bloody psychics" Ash mumbled heading down the street earning disapproving glances from a few members of the public. Ignoring them Ash walked into the centre and handed his Pokémon over to Joy before heading to his room. Making a call to his mum he let her know he was in Saffron safely and all going well he should hopefully be in Vermillion by the weekend. Hanging up he had a nice long shower before heading down to the entrance to pick up his Pokémon. Just as he was about to enter, he heard raised voices on the other side of the door.

"Where is it, Nurse?"

"Yeah, nurse. Where is that thing?"

"I have no idea what 'thing' you three are talking about. Now you'll either be civil in here or you can clear off" Joy said angrily.

"It came in here about an hour ago Nurse."

"Yeah. We want to talk to it."

"Right, that's it, out. You've been extremely rude already and I gave you a warning. Leave. And you can bet I'll be telling Sabrina about this" Joy said.

"It's ok Nurse Joy" Ash said walking out nonchalantly over to the water stand. Buying a bottle of water he then walked over to Joy and standing at her side observed the three people who were accosting her "that 'thing' they're on about is me. These abominations will apologise to you now, or I will quite happily break their limbs."

"You wouldn't dare" one of them said.

"Yeah, you don't have it in you." the second one piped up.

"Try me" Ash said starting to advance before feeling a hand on his arm. Looking back, he saw Joy looking at him with concern and anger.

"You'll try nothing" she said furiously "all of you. Now, explain"

Looking around he noticed that quite a few people were in the centre and also around the door wondering what was going on.

"It's quite simple really" Ash said creating an Aura Sphere, causing the three men to hiss and take a step back "I'm an aura wielder, those cretins are psychics. We're natural enemies. Now I'm guessing that your boss sent you here?"

"So, what if she did?"

"Yeah. She sent us to come fetch you."

"Did she now? Too cowardly to do it herself is she?" Ash asked sparking shouts of outrage "enough, you're making our ears bleed with your bleating. You see Nurse Joy as soon as I set foot inside Saffron I felt an oppressive presence try and take over my mind and I ejected it very forcefully. Nothing will ever influence my mind other than my Pokémon, myself and my mother. Sabrina evidently didn't like the fact she can't control me like she can everyone else in this city and sent her goons here to try and strongarm me into seeing her."

"What do you mean" a man in his early forties asked stepping forward "what do you mean control us?"

"Sabrina has a vice grip on this city using her psychic powers." Ash said looking around at everyone "she actively uses her psychic powers to manipulate your thoughts and feelings every day, and none of you have ever known differently. All the psychics at her gym train to do this using the people of this city as guinea pigs. As an Aura wielder she cannot affect me in that way, so she has no control over what I can or cannot do. Nor can she control what I tell people. I know some people are sceptical but do a little test tonight. Walk out of the city and then back in and tell me if you felt the difference in you."

"You lie" one of the goons said, "Sabrina would never do that."

"I will do so young man" the guy said, "in fact why don't we all do that right now?"

"Certainly" Ash said smiling "I shall lead the way. Be warned though, the witch won't like this and will try and make you feel like you need to be elsewhere. She can't have her little lab rats escape her clutches after all. But I promise you that you will feel the difference."

Leading them all out of the Centre the goons quickly ran away in the direction of the gym. "see" Ash said nodding at the fleeing men "they run to their mistress like good little boys to tell her that her test subjects are escaping. Do not be surprised if she appears in front of you all to convince you otherwise." As they walked many others joined them wondering what was going on. When they heard about his claim many were outraged.

"Who are you Mr?" a small voice asked. Turning around he saw it was a little girl no older than six.

"My name is Ash Ketchum little one" he said smiling "I'm an Aura wielder. Would you like to learn?"

"We can do that?" she asked wonderingly. "I'm Emily by the way"

"Yes, you all can" Ash said addressing them "every single one of you was born with the power to wield Aura. It surrounds us, it makes us who we are and we can all utilise it to some degree. Now it's not easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. So, while we're walking to the city edge, I'll give you a quick lesson."

Ten minutes later they reached the signpost and found they weren't alone. The goons were there along with a tall willowy woman with bright green hair wearing a black and red jumpsuit. Behind her was an Alakazam.

"Well, well" Ash said "if it isn't the witch herself. I told you guys this would happen, didn't I? I told you that she wouldn't want her lab rats escaping. Emily, do me a favour. Why don't you and your father just step over that concrete line there and tell me what you feel."

"She cannot" Sabrina said stepping forward looking at Emily and her eyes glowed pink.

"You either move out of the way witch, or I will make you" Ash said stepping forward in front of her his eyes glowing blue, placing a hand on Emily causing her to glow blue as well. "I am not playing around here. We might not be allowed to legally kill each other anymore but I will do everything I can in my quite considerable power to reduce you and your kind to nothingness. Now move, or I will make you."

Looking like she was about to cry Sabrina moved out of the way "Go ahead Emily."

The little girl and her father tentatively crossed the threshold and immediately felt an oppressive presence they didn't even know was there lift. "Oh wow" her dad said collapsing to his knees "I feel so much better, my head is so much clearer" looking up his visage grew angry. Standing up he looked at Sabrina "You! You did this! What right have you to meddle with my thoughts and emotions? How dare you! I swear that I will do everything I can to see you out of my city!"

"Your city?" Ash asked, "what do you mean?"

"I am Hatori Suzuki, Mr Ketchum. I am the son of the president of Silph Company" the man said, "the gym is open at our pleasure, not theirs as it is financed and ran by my fathers' company."

"Oh well pleased to meet you." Ash said "I was going to visit the conventions tomorrow afternoon actually after I had had my gym battle. I doubt that will happen now as there's no way I'm setting foot in the witch's gym on my own. I'd be killed and then people would be told it was an accident while having their minds manipulated to believe it so."

"I will be getting in touch with the Pokémon League about this and I will express my outrage they let this happen" Hatori said. Looking at Sabrina he continued "she will be replaced, that you can be sure of."

"That gym is my home!" She said angrily stepping forward "my family own that building so we can't be kicked out."

"There's ways around that" Ash said smirking "isn't there another gym in this city? I'm sure the league can strip her of gym rights and give it to the other gym. It lets her keep her home but stops her meddling."

"That" Hatori said "is a great idea. Come on Emily, we're going. I shall keep an eye out for you at the convention Mr Ketchum."

"I shall hopefully see you then" Ash said "oh before you all go, I'm releasing a book on Aura in the next few months. It should be out before the league starts. It'll be free of charge too so, you can all learn to protect yourselves from psychics. Thank you all for believing me, I know it must have been hard."

"I shall keep an eye out for the book" Hatori said as he left, the crowd following him. Soon enough it was just Ash, Sabrina and her three minions. Smirking Ash turned his back on her and began to walk away, very pleased at his work. As he was walking, he felt he could hear his ancestors celebrating this big victory. As Ash had told Charmeleon he couldn't legally kill psychics due to moral legalities, but he could find ways around that to still do his best to eliminate them. Walking back into the centre he thanked Nurse Joy for looking after his Pokémon and went to bed.

Elsewhere

"He's getting very close to the answers then?" Lorelei asked as the Elite Four sat in a private room.

"Yes, he's pieced together bits and pieces and came up with a pretty accurate reconstruction of what happened to his father" Agatha said fiddling with her cane. "He doesn't believe he is dead though, just that he disappeared. And he knows we're covering it up. He's given us all until he beats Blue to come clean before he dismantles the Elite Four and Goodshow."

"How did he get the information?" Lance asked "we all had to swear that we couldn't say anything. The form is legally locked up in Goodshow's office."

"The kid is really clever" Agatha said "he knows that we're all hiding something and somehow, he knew that Team Rocket was financing Cinnabar Labs back then. He also knows that they were trying to create something, and that the explosion put a halt to that. He looked up information on Fuji, put two and two together and nearly came up with four. He was especially interested in what Fuji did back then."

"So, he's getting his information from somewhere?" Bruno asked "where?"

"Likely Giovanni. His sister is Ash's mum" Lance said leaning back "Gio was very angry about what happened to his gym and never fails to let us know the damage done to his sisters family. He still claims that he has no idea why Rocket was using it that day."

"Which we all know is bullshit" Bruno said, "No one uses a gym and keeps the leader ignorant."

"Ash believes something survived from the experiments" Agatha piped up "he told me that he and his Pikachu felt an 'extraordinarily powerful presence' at Cerulean Cave that disappeared the day after they first felt it. And that a similar presence was at large in Lavender Town."

"If something survived then wouldn't we know about it?" Lance asked.

"Not if it was a powerful psychic" Agatha said "the experiments were on a Mew fossil after all, it stands to reason that the creation would be psychic too. Fuji goes missing the minute Rocket makes a comeback, a psychic Pokémon is felt in Cerulean cave weeks later and takes control over the town Fuji was in. Fuji was in charge of creating said creation. Ash put all this together from three newspaper clippings and a bio of Fuji found on the internet. He's bloody annoying but also bloody clever."

"I received an email from Cynthia this morning. Apparently, she met Ash in Lavender?" Lance asked.

"Yes" Agatha said nodding "they got on ok, he gave her a history lesson and then he left to head to Saffron."

"A history lesson? To Cynthia?" About what?" Lorelei asked.

"He told her the true story of Auras vs Psychics, including their involvement in the Great War" Agatha said.

"Why?" Lance asked trying to remember what he knew about them.

"Because of her companion." Agatha replied "Lucian I think his name was. Anyway, Auras and psychics are mortal enemies. You remember Red and his reaction to the psychic challenger who wanted to be a part of our Elite Four?"

"I do" Bruno said whistling "it wasn't pretty, was it? Red demolished him with his Charizard alone."

"Aye" Agatha said, "and that hatred seems to have been passed on to his son."

"Oh, that's not good." Lorelei said worried "and he's heading to Saffron? Maybe one of us should head there to keep the City from being levelled."

A that moment Lances Pokégear rang. Answering it he was baffled and then looked resigned the longer the other person talked. Hanging up he looked at the others.

"That was Goodshow. We're too late it seems" Lance said sighing "Ash got to Saffron and within the hour Sabrina will be evicted from being the cities gym leader. It seems she's been using her powers to control the minds and emotions of the people in the city and Ash exposed her. Directly to the President of Silph companies' son. They threatened to pull all funding and sponsorship of the League and all its sanctioned events if nothing was done about it before midnight. They said and I quote "it is an absolute outrage that the Elite Four and it's Champion have let this go on for as long as it has." First Cerulean and now Saffron? Is anywhere else safe from Ash?"

"Cinnabar will need a new leader soon" Agatha said helpfully.

"Oh, not this again Agatha" Lance said "you know our hands were tied on him. There was literally no evidence to say Blaine was involved in anything that Rocket did."

"Yeah, well Ash knows he was Fujis right hand man." Agatha said smirking. "How long do you think it will be before Ash figures out that Blaine had a hand in the experiments?"

"And how does he know this?" Lance asked exasperated.

"I may have let it slip when talking about Fuji." Agatha said cackling.

"You told Ash that Blaine was a part for Team Rockets experiments?" Lance said standing up and pacing "you realise you could be put in prison for that?"

"Actually, I believe what I said was 'Soon you will face a man in battle who was Fuji's chief of staff on Cinnabar Island who was cleared of all wrongdoing because of the explosion erasing everything. He too should have been locked up.'" Agatha said still cackling. "I never gave Ash a name."

"Then how did he know it was Blaine?" Bruno asked.

"He figured it out from just that sentence" she replied shocking them "as I said he's very clever. He figured it out from the pronouns I used. He knew who he would have to face, that being the gym leaders to get badges and as I said 'he', it narrowed that down to three options. And then he added that of those three only Blaine lives on Cinnabar and hey presto, he had his man."

"So, Blaine will need replacing then too?" Lance said pinching his nose as he sat back down.

"No, I doubt it" Agatha said "Blaine has lived in isolation underneath the volcano for eleven years now. Ash will probably get his badge, ask a few questions and then leave. The biggest issue we have now is sorting out Saffron gym."

"Nope," Lance said "Goodshow has already decided that. He's given the status back to the Fighting Dojo. The Sensei is being told as we speak."

"Oooh" Bruno said, "at last, a fighting gym."

"Back to Ash" Lorelei said, shaking her head fondly at Bruno "what do we do?"

"There's nothing we can do." Agatha replied "He's extremely driven in his quest and his Pokémon are very well trained. Sooner rather than later he will face us and beat us. I have no doubt about that."

"You think he'll beat us" Lance asked with surprise on his face "why?"

"That boy is special" Bruno said "and so is that Pikachu. Don't scoff Lance. It beat Brocks rock types after being with Ash only handful of weeks, my Sandslash one-on-one a week later, he beat Lt Surges Raichu in a match of electrical power, it then healed a Zapdos using just its electricity. And then just last week it beat a Spiritomb. Ash has been a trainer just over four months now and already he has surpassed what his father achieved by that point. Trust me Lance, you do not want to underestimate that boy."

"And the rest of his team are very good too." Agatha piped up "That Charmeleon of his in particular is going to be a monster when it evolves. Those three are going to be incredible in a few years' time. Meet him, then you'll know how right we are."

"I will be doing soon" Lance said "I have an appointment with him when he reaches Cinnabar" seeing their confused faces he carried on "Oh, when he reached Pewter, he found a fossil in a rock. It turns out it was an Old Amber that contained the DNA of an Aerodactyl. As is the law no rookie trainer can have one of those after the Unova incident. So, I'll be taking it off his hands and relocating it to an isolated island."

"And he's ok with that?" Bruno asked, "he's just willing to give up a rare and powerful Pokémon like that?"

"Yes" Agatha said remembering Spiritomb "if it doesn't fit in with his plans or potentially harms his team then he won't keep it."

"Agatha is right" Lance said "I received an email off him the day he found the fossil. He stated in it that he had no desire to have an Aerodactyl on his team as 'they're too much trouble and I'd rather not be on edge to see if it tries to eat me or not all the time'. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders."

"He does" Lorelei said nodding and standing up "Anyway, I've got a daughter to get home to. Let me know how you get on with Saffron City" giving her husband a kiss she left followed by Agatha leaving just Bruno and Lance.

"Bruno, I need you to do something for me but you can't tell the others. I need you to go to this location and pick up this package" he said handing over a form "I can't go pick it up myself, I need to go to Dragons Den. Something I need to pick up there too."

"What is this, Lance?" Bruno asked, "and why me?"

"It's nothing sinister Bruno" Lance said chuckling "I promise you. I plan on asking Melanie to marry me but her ring needs to be picked up in the next week."

"Oh right, well congratulations" Bruno said, "and the ladies can't know because?"

"Seriously? Do you remember the squealing that happened when you asked Lorelei?" Lance asked chuckling.

"Point taken. Yeah, I'll pick it up for you." Bruno said standing up clapping him on the shoulder leaving him sat down.

Also, Elsewhere

A Lucario raced towards the palace. Passing many surprised people she continued on her path, seeing the lights up ahead gave her the impetus to carry on with her mission. Racing past the bewildered guards she soon found herself in the big hall where a meeting was going on. Upon hearing her enter everyone stood up, wondering what was happening that required a Lucario to disturb them.

"My Lady, I have news" Lucario said.

"So, it would seem" Ilene said also standing up. "Speak then Lucario."

"The Psychics no longer have any power in Saffron City" Lucario leading to gasps of surprise and mutters.

"How, why?" Ilene asked grasping Lucario on her arm.

Wondering how she was going to say it made her hesitate "well?" Ilene asked.

"Ash Ketchum evicted them, My Lady."

Silence. You could hear a pin drop. Ash was a very sore subject amongst the higher ups of Cameron Palace and Rota. Everyone knew his thoughts on them, just as everyone knew he was wrong.

"Are you certain?" Riley asked stepping forward "are you absolutely certain?"

"Yes Lord Riley" Lucario answered "I witnessed the event myself. Ash led an entire contingent of people to the cities limits to help them escape the witches mental grasp. When she tried to confront him, he challenged her, and she backed down knowing she was outmatched. A man then stepped over the cities threshold and collapsed in happiness; his mind had been freed. It was the witches bad luck that he is the son of the Silph companies president. Within the hour Sabrina is due to lose her gym status and it will be given to the Dojo once more."

"Oh that is great news" Ilene said happily sitting down, "great news indeed. I shall send a Lucario as a messenger to the gym leader, Riley you will accompany them. Hopefully we can renew our friendship once again."

"There is more My Lady" Lucario said hesitantly "Ash Ketchum has written a book on Aura. He's giving it away free of charge and sending it to everyone in Saffron City."

"Why does that sound concerning?" a man asked at the table "surely the more people protected from the scum the better?"

"It is concerning" Riley said sitting down "because it will more than likely include our history, unvarnished. We have kept a lot from the general public regarding us over the centuries. Ash will certainly write about his ancestors, especially Aura Guardian Sir Aaron Ketchum and his relationship with Queen Rin."

"Can we not stop its release?" the man asked again.

"To what end?" Ilene asked "he has already told an entire city, who believes he is now their hero that he's got a book waiting to be published. It's clear you've never met him. If he finds out that we have tried to put a stop to it, he will hunt us down and eliminate us. At the moment we're not a threat to him, more of an annoyance."

"But you're the Queen!" a lady said.

"I am not his Queen though, Rebecca" Ilene said "and I likely never will be either. He doesn't see serving in Rota as an honour like the rest of you do. My ill advised pursuit of his father irritated his mother and Delia has certainly passed that on to him. We met him outside Mt Moon a few months ago and he told me exactly what he thinks of me and Cameron Palace."

"He's only one Aura user though" the original man said, "why can't we eliminate him?"

Laughing Riley had to compose himself. Unable to do so he excused himself. It was the Lucario messenger who spoke though.

"Ash Ketchum is the single, most powerful aura user we have on record, and he is only eleven years old. He wields it effortlessly and he has never felt a drain in his reserves in the entire time we have known about him. After the incident outside of Pallet Town we all took turns in training him in aura usage as reparations and in the last year of our service not a single Lucario could beat him in hand to hand combat. I felt his power when he confronted the witch. It was incredible. No, we would find ourselves at war with Ash and we cannot afford to do that. There are too few Aura Guardians as it is."

"Which leads to another problem" Riley said coming back in after composing himself. Giving his apologies he continued "soon everyone in Kanto will be able to access their aura, making us superfluous and nothing but a novelty. What we gain in eliminating the abominations we lose in respect. I cannot help but think this was always destined to happen."

"What do you mean?" Ilene asked.

"Because of our own laws we have limited the amount of aura users while the psychics grew. Because of this we are currently vastly outnumbered should they attempt anything. Ash knows this too, he has seen the records his father took years ago. So, Ash has done something about it to even the playing field as it were. I don't think he even planned to do this, he never gave off the impression that he would do so anyway. So, by giving everyone access to Aura, we're pretty much useless."

"You have a point" Ilene said after several minutes "so what can we do?"

"Something you're probably not going to like." Riley said, "work alongside Ash."

"He would never commit to that" Ilene said standing up and pacing "you know how he feels about us."

"I know my Lady, but what choice do we have but try?" Riley said sighing.

"Shit" she said sitting down. That about summed up everybody's mood.

Chapter 15: Chapter 15- Saffron City

Chapter Text

Chapter 15- Saffron

Ringing up his mother the next morning he gave her the good news about what happened. She was a little concerned about what happened but understood that while he helped lead people out of the city they still acted of their own free will, and it was Silph who evicted Sabrina. She was a little concerned about retribution from them, they didn't need to use psychic powers to hurt someone.

"Mum, they don't think like that" Ash said "they've been using psychic power for so long now that they virtually do nothing by hand. They're very arrogant about that. Sabrina herself proved that as rather than try and talk people into returning to the city her immediate reaction was to try and take over the little girl's mind and control her that way. Their arrogance is their undoing."

"Well just make sure yours is not your own undoing Ash" Delia said still worried.

"I won't mum" Ash said smiling "I know I have you and my team to stop that. I've been thinking situations through more since the incident at Power Plant. I didn't plan on ousting Sabrina yesterday, I just gave people the option of deciding for themselves and they took it."

"I know Ash" Delia replied sighing looking away.

"What's wrong mum?" Ash asked "I know that face. That's your 'I have something to tell you that you're probably not going to like' face."

"I have a face like that?" Delia asked surprised.

"Yes" Ash said "you know of the issues I faced growing up, and you know how single minded I am to the point of stubbornness. I heard the phrase 'come to terms with it, it's happening' so many times from you that I learned to recognise what those looks from you meant. Now, what's wrong?"

Sighing Delia took a big breath "Sam came round last night. He received an email off someone asking us for a way to get us both around a table with a representative of theirs to collaborate on an issue going forward."

Looking confused Ash looked off to the side before his brain clicked "No, mum. There's only one person, or people that we don't actively engage with in conversation. I told you of them waylaying me at Mt Moon, I sent you the recording of what was said and I meant every word mum. You did a wonderful job of raising me, and I am damn proud to be able to call you my mum. But I will never serve that pretentious woman as long as I live. That's why you weren't surprised by what I told you." He finished nodding to himself.

"Thank you for that" Delia said smiling "I'm proud to call you my son too Ash. But this wasn't an offer of servitude, it was an offer to work together, as a partnership."

"Mum, you know full well that what they say and what they mean are two different things" Ash said.

"Yes Ash" his mum said archly "I don't need you to remind me of what that woman is capable of." After a 'sorry' she carried on "but what you did yesterday changed the game, Ash. You removed the psychic influence Saffron has been under for centuries without even trying. Do you have any idea how many aura users have tried that in the past? Not only that but you told the population about your book on protecting themselves. The president of Silph himself has asked his son to look out for you tomorrow when you go to the conventions. I received that email last night too. I've had all morning to think about why they want to open talks and I can only come up with one reason why they'd want to reach out. You've made them obsolete."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked confused.

"I didn't think you'd realise just what you'd done Ash" Delia said shaking her head smiling "by teaching everyone Aura with your books they become obsolete. They're not special anymore Ash. For centuries they've stayed relevant because they alone were trained to use this mystical power they called Aura and it's well known that they limit just who they train so if a person is chosen it's a massive deal. They used their win in the war to enhance that mystique and the people for centuries have lapped that up. Now, through you, they're no longer special. If everyone can use aura, then why would Rota and their Queen be relevant anymore? So, the only way they can stay relevant is by piggybacking onto the person that made them irrelevant's fame; you. They need you or they become just another town that uses aura, like every other town is going to become."

"Ah right" Ash said "yeah, I can see that. All I wanted to do was open people's minds in Saffron. I was going to challenge Sabrina, beat her and then leave as soon as I could."

"I know Ash" Delia said "but this is another one of those situations where the consequences of your actions have taken over. Now this time I'm not going to shout at you about thinking things through. Mainly because of what you just said. I know you wanted to be in Vermillion in a few days and if you'd have planned this it would likely have taken longer than it did. I'm going to chalk this one up as dumb luck."

"That's what I've done" Ash said laughing before turning serious "so what should I do mum? I really don't want to work with them or be near them in any way."

"Then you don't have to" Delia said "if you don't want to. You're in no way obligated to do anything Ash."

"What do you want to do mum?" Ash said after a few moments of silence "this is just as much your fight as mine."

"I have no idea Ash" Delia said "there's very few people in this world I detest. Ilene is number two behind the entirety of Team Rocket because of what she tried to do so I think I'm going to speak to my lawyers first, that way if a meeting is set up, we have a list of demands or requests that we don't deviate from. We know that negotiation takes place but there's some things we don't have to compromise on."

"Like a Ketchum ever becoming a servant of the Monarch of Rota or Cameron Palace" Ash said thinking out loud "or placing Lucario all over Kanto to spy on me."

"Those are two of them yes" Delia said "wait, they're following you around Kanto?"

"Yeah" Ash said "they have been since Mt Moon. How do you think they knew about what happened in Saffron so quickly? I guarantee that if I leave Saffron, I could sense one in the distance keeping tabs on me. Don't forget mum they've been trying to get me as a servant since dad disappeared. Ilene nearly fulfilled her ancestors wishes with Dad, when that went wrong, I was next. That was until you sued them and then warned me of what they wanted."

"Those absolute bastards" Delia said angrily "well you can be sure that my lawyers will be in touch about this whole thing. I'll be sure to let them know my list of demands. If you think of anything else let me know."

"To be honest mum I'm not sure I even want to entertain them in any way" Ash said, "when my book comes out it makes them worthless, in what way does that benefit us?"

"I'm not sure Ash" Delia said, "but if this guarantees they leave us alone, I'd give it some serious thought."

"Ok mum" Ash said "we don't have a time limit, do we? Because this decision could be made after the cruise. Let them sweat it out and reflect on the future."

"That may be a better decision" Delia said nodding "I'll let my lawyers know and then get back to you. Now, what's your plans for today?"

"I'm going to go to the convention today and then the gym tomorrow." Ash said, "The Dojo master was only likely told last night so I'll give him a day to get settled before destroying his team."

Laughing they continued with their small talk for another ten minutes before Ash hung up. Standing up he decided to go to Silph and see some of the conventions that were happening. Ash was particularly interested in the 'new technology' stall that was there. He had taken the black box apart last night and found it was just a simple transmitter. He doubted he would find where the master receiver was, but he knew that if it was turned on again it would turn green, so he kept it with him. It would be a forewarning more than anything else.

Walking into Silph Ash was amazed at its opulence. It screamed 'wealth' which wasn't surprising really given who owned it. The president was widely regarded as the wealthiest man in the world, and all the technology he created increased that wealth by the minute. Walking around the stalls he picked up various items that he thought could help with travelling. He bought himself a retractable rope with a hook on the end for in case he gets stuck on a cliff, he had his set of weights updated, they could now weigh more than before which was needed considering his Pokémon were going to be much bigger in the future and he bought his mum some dragon-scale gloves for her gardening. It was when he was walking past another exhibit that he had to stop and stare in surprise. There was merchandise of his dad as an action figure complete with a little Pikachu. Walking over he wondered just who had authorised that.

"Hey" Ash said drawing the attention of the vendor "who gave you authorisation to sell figures of my dad?"

"Please" the vendor said sneering "Red didn't have any children."

"Erm, yes he did" Ash said vehemently "I'm his child! Now I'll ask again, who the hell gave you permission to sell figurines of my father? Because it certainly wasn't my mother, his wife!"

"You have no proof you're Red's son" the man said nervously.

"I'm wearing his bloody hat! It was one of a kind. Not only that but my name is Ash Ketchum" Ash said shouting. His voice had attracted several members of the public to stare at the scene being caused so Ash wasn't surprised when security came over and asked what was going on.

"What's going on is this vendor is selling figurines of my father without authorisation." Ash said staring the vendor down "not only that but he then accused me of lying about Red Ketchum being my dad!"

"Ok sir" the guard asked, "do you have any proof you're his son?"

"Yes, I do" Ash said pulling out his Pokedex and showing them his ID "Ketchum is not a common name, not only that but I'm wearing his signature cap. Do you need me to ring Professor Oak to verify it?"

"Mr Ketchum" a voice said making them all turn around as Hatori Suzuki walked through the gathered crowd "Thank you again for your service to Saffron yesterday. Now, what seems to be the problem?"

"Hello again Mr Suzuki" Ash said "this man is selling figurines of my dad without either myself or my mother authorising them. He then accused me of lying about being Red's son. The guards were just asking me for proof of who I am too."

"They are doing their job Mr Ketchum" Hatori said.

"I am aware of that Mr Suzuki" Ash said, "my grievance is not with them."

"I am allowed to sell whatever I want" the vendor said looking flustered "I received permission by going through all the right channels."

"Of selling the current Elite Four and current Champion merchandise Mr Funaki, as authorised by the Pokémon League" Hatori said "Red has not been authorised by the League or his family to have merchandise created or sold since his death eleven years ago. Everything was pulled that concerned him. Now if you want to continue selling here, I suggest that you box everything of Red and put them away. You have my apologies Mr Ketchum. Now I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time?"

"Of course," Ash said walking away with Hatori giving the vendor one last glare "I have only one convention to go to anyway, which is the one I am here for."

"Oh? Which one?" Hatori asked.

"The new releases and technology advances one" Ash said smiling "I'm a bit of a geek, and I was told there was a big announcement being broadcast today so that should be interesting."

"Indeed, it is Mr Ketchum" Hatori said proudly "It is a gamechanger in the world of catching Pokémon. Instead of the convention how would you like to meet the people behind it who can give you a more detailed overview of it?"

"Well, I don't know what 'it' is" Ash said following Hatori to an elevator. Using a pass Hatori took them up to the eighteenth floor. The elevator door opened to a hub of activity. Scientists were rushing around in and out of their booths to show other bits and pieces of technology to each other.

"We prefer giving the staff here free rein to do what they want" Hatori said as they made their way through the staff "we find it is fantastic for creativity and collaboration" as they got to the end though Ash saw a door with a keypad, hand scanner and a retina scan. "This Mr Ketchum is where all our most secret ideas are held. Only those with authorisation are allowed in but I did promise you a show did I not?" he finished smirking. Walking over to the keypad he put in a code and then used the retina and hand scan at the same time. Whatever was inside Ash mused must be incredible. As it opened Ash waited with bated breath and then let out a sigh of disappointment as inside was a single pedestal with a glass case holding some kind of spherical object. Walking up to it Ash observed it looked like a fancy pokeball, gilded in purple with gold trimming and a big with letter M on it.

After removing the security bars around the case Hatori cautiously lifted the glass lid and reverently took hold of the ball and held it up. "Behold Mr Ketchum. The greatest invention Silph has ever made. If I asked you what it was what would you say?"

"It looks like a Pokeball" Ash said walking closer to observe it.

"It is Mr Ketchum" Hatori said whispering looking at him "but it is so much more than that. What you see here Mr Ketchum is years of trial and error, millions of dollars spent on research and the collaboration of the finest minds in Kanto. I give you Mr Ketchum…The Masterball."

"The Masterball?" Ash asked perplexed.

"I see you fail to see its significance. But that's not surprising Mr Ketchum" Hatori said placing it back on the pedestal and replacing the glass. Immediately as it did so the panels were secured by metal rods going through the glass. "It is the greatest Pokéball ever invented Mr Ketchum" Hatori said leading them back out of the vault "it will catch any Pokémon without fail. Just think Mr Ketchum, you see a Pokémon you want, and just catch it. No battles needed; no Pokémon are hurt, just an instant catch. It's untested on Legendaries though at the minute. Mainly because they're so elusive but it's a 100% guaranteed catch on all other Pokémon. Isn't that wonderful?"

Ash thought it was anything but wonderful but agreed simply because he didn't want to cause an argument in a place he was vastly outnumbered. He still needed Mr Suzuki after all. He had a lot of power in the Pokémon world, evidenced by the eviction of Sabrina in a single night. Ash suddenly felt very claustrophobic in a room full of scientists looking at him and Hatori talking about something that had taken them years to invent. Deciding on a much safer topic Ash pulled out the little black box and was about to ask Hatori about it when a scientist rushed over to him and grabbed it out of his hand and rushed to his cubicle where he began taking it apart.

"Hey!" Ash exclaimed rushing after him "what the hell do you think you're doing?"

"Easy there, Ash" Hatori said laying a hand on his shoulder "they're always like this, especially with each other. We've kind of gotten used to it. Now, Edgar" he said turning to the scientist who was currently taking apart the black box "what was that about?"

"This is fantastic" Edgar said seemingly ignoring the question "come, come. Look here at this! Whoever did this knew what they were doing. Where did you get this?"

"I took it from the top of Pokémon Tower in Lavender Town" Ash said "It was attached to an antenna that was being used to control the population of the town. Someone had fitted this and was using a Spiritomb as a conduit to give the town insomnia and for the last three months the town's population have been like zombies. But when I beat the Spiritomb the antenna was destroyed in the battle so I couldn't trace where the master transceiver was. I took that apart myself last night but found nothing that could give me any clue. I put it back together because I know the next time the Master is used that will switch back on and I can hopefully get a jump on its location."

"That's ingenious" Edgar said after processing the information "this little box is able to do all that. You're correct that without the antenna its essentially useless. But you see these little parts here?" he asked pointing to a wire and a coil with a small brass tool "these are exclusive to Silph Towers. Only we make these parts as they're used in the Pokegear and Pokedex. So, whoever made this works here."

"Could you find out who?" Ash asked urgently.

"Sadly not" Edgar said shaking his head "every single person in this lab and the one above has access to these parts on a daily basis and as they're so common up here it would be easy to make a few go 'missing' and not be noticed."

"Damn" Ash said picking it back up "thank you anyway."

"Is it important Ash?" Hatori asked as they walked away.

"Yes, is there somewhere private we could talk?" Ash asked.

"Actually yes, my father wants to meet you. His office is secure. I shall lead the way" Hatori said as he used his swipe card on the lift and went to the very top floor. Exiting Ash followed the corridor where Hatori opened the big doors at the end. The office screamed 'Wealth' and 'Taste'. Its furniture was likely more expensive than anything Ash had ever wanted to buy. Seated at the end behind a massive mahogany desk was the President of Silph. Standing up he came to greet them. He was a small man, wearing a monocle, had a pencil moustache and was dressed immaculately. Shaking Ash's hand with both of his he greeted them both and bade them sit down. After greetings Hatori asked Ash again about the box.

"I suspect that Team Rocket is behind it" Ash said shocking them both "this is strictly off the record, and should anyone ask, I will refuse to admit this conversation took place but over the last four or so months there have been many incidents that involved a newly resurrected Team Rocket. The last time I saw them in person was at Power Plant, yes it was them, not scientists who attacked Zapdos. Then a week later I'm in Lavender town and they had built an antenna on top of Pokémon Tower and had them all under a thrall. It was only because of a battle I had with Spiritomb that the antenna was destroyed, and everything went back to normal.

I'm concerned about your Masterball. You've made it public and in doing so they will do everything they can to get hold of something like that. I suggest you improve your security or move it to somewhere only you two know so trust me on this please. A ball that can potentially catch Legendaries? That's not something they can afford to turn down."

"That is troubling Ash" Hatori said "very troubling. It will have to be moved father."

"Indeed, it will" the man said stroking his moustache "we will both do it tonight and tell no one about it. It's not strange to see us stay behind after hours."

"I'm glad" Ash said, "I didn't think you'd take me seriously."

"We trusted you yesterday Ash" Hatori said "and you were right then. We'll trust you once more."

"Thank you" Ash said very relieved "I was told by my mother that you wanted to speak to me?"

"Yes" the president said taking over "I wanted to thank you personally for saving my son and granddaughter, without you we would have never known and been under Sabrina's thrall forever-more. I was informed that you're on the gym challenge, so I thought I'd give you the update on that personally too. As of right now Sabrina is holed up in her gym pending an investigation into coercion. She better hope that is all it is. The Karate Master was informed this morning that his gym license has been updated to be one of the eight official Pokémon League registered gyms. His gym is closed for today so he can get everything set up for official battles. All he's been able to do for the last few years is have spars, but not give out a badge. That has now changed. My son also told me that you are releasing a book to help people control their minds and resist external influences?"

"Yes" Ash replied "in a manner of speaking anyway. It's a book on Aura and how to access your inner aura for those who have been unable to do so. It's more a book on meditation but I list several techniques for closing your minds off to psychics. I want to make it clear though that it's not a guaranteed thing. Some people will be unable to access their full aura, for various reasons but I cannot see why people can't learn the basics, even if it's just to develop a warning system that someone is trying to access their minds."

"Well, that sounds very beneficial" the President said "I can see that flying off the shelf when it is released, which leads me to my next proposition. Silph would like the exclusive rights to produce the book."

"No, sorry" Ash said shaking his head shocking them "I plan on giving it away to people for nothing. It's important that people learn to protect themselves and I have no need of more money than I already have. I'm aware I could probably make a small fortune on it, but I always knew this book would need to be free."

"Well, I can't say I'm not disappointed" the President said "but it is your book. Do you plan on doing book signings?"

"Maybe in the future. I'm not famous enough to be doing those at the moment." Ash said laughing "In about eighteen months' time I will be though when I become Kanto Champion."

"Then we will likely be having another conversation like this then" the President said cheerfully "for now though all we can do is wish you well, and should you need anything please don't hesitate to give us a call. Hatori, we have a meeting in half an hour so I'm afraid that this conversation will have to come to an end. Could you please escort Mr Ketchum out and then return here? I thank you again Mr Ketchum" the President said standing up and offering his hand.

"It was a pleasure to meet you" Ash said "if you need to contact me here's my pokegear number, failing that contact my mother and she'll inform me. Thank you for the tour" standing up they left via the elevator and shaking hands left each other at the front door. Ash headed to the Pokémon centre while Hatori made the journey back to his father's office.

"You said there was a meeting due soon father? I'm unaware of one that was scheduled" Hatori said questioningly.

"There isn't one, it's between you and I" the President said standing up and walking to his window that overlooked Saffron City "what is your opinion of Mr Ketchum? Full disclosure Hatori"

"He's a very driven." Hatori began "He's arrogant, knowledgeable, clever, tough and very direct. He's also very well connected. He reminds me of you father to be honest. You need to have a certain ruthlessness to be able to build the empire you have, and he is certainly ruthless. I did some digging last night and his past four months have been a whirlwind of crazy situations. He had the Cerulean Gym leaders fired for not doing their job, stopped a Zapdos on a rampage, freed Lavender Town from being oppressed and then a week later did the same for us in Saffron. Not only that he's apparently halted Team Rocket operations in a few places like Viridian City and Power Plant. He's a catalyst for change. And in the next eighteen months I can guarantee he will shake more situations up and come out smiling. He has a destiny that will outshine us all I believe."

"Mr Ketchum needs to be thanked for what he's done for us." the President said nodding as he sat down "The information regarding Team Rocket is of immense concern. They have tried to gain Silph in the past, but I rebuffed them. They then tried to send people to intimidate me but again I rebuffed them. If Mr Ketchum is set on taking them out, we should aid him however we can, covertly of course. At the minute though I have no idea how."

"I was thinking about that" Hatori said "what if we sponsored him? Endorsed him and gave him first access to new inventions. Or paid for the book to be published and distributed from Silph?"

"Can we trust him that much?" the President asked. "The book option is more the direction I was thinking of."

"I believe so yes" Hatori replied "he had no reason to tell us everything he did. And with him it certainly wasn't the loose lips of youth. He seems to want us all to be prepared for something big to come. And for the sake of my daughter, I will be forever thankful."

"Then we are in agreement." the President said nodding his head "we owe Mr Ketchum. And instead of trying to work behind the scenes, we work with him in full view. He doesn't seem to be the type that appreciates subterfuge. So, if we openly offer what we can, maybe in years to come his name being associated with us will be enough of a deterrent to groups like Rocket. At the minute though he's still only eleven years old. So, we play the long game. I shall email his mother personally explaining our offer. Hopefully we can have a long and lasting partnership."

"We are in agreement father" Hatori said smiling "he didn't seem to be too enthusiastic about the Masterball though. I wonder why that is."

"He's a Pokémon trainer Hatori" the President said laughing "one of the biggest thrills they have is when they throw the ball and hopes it catches their intended target and the possibility it fails. The Masterball removes that option. I am still very proud of it though. I'm still clueless on where to store it though when we move it tonight."

"Something to think over for the next few hours then" Hatori said.

Elsewhere Ash was on the videophone to Professor Oak and his mum that night talking about that very same item.

"I don't like it professor. It takes away everything we trainers live for. To be able to catch a Pokémon, without battling it or earning its respect in battle goes against the trainer's code" Ash said shaking his head "nothing good can come of this professor."

"I agree Ash" Sam said, "I was at that convention, and it seems like a worrying concept. It was a shame we missed each other but the behind-the-scenes tour of Silph must have been very exciting for you."

"It was until he showed me the actual Masterball" Ash said ruefully.

"It's actually real?" Sam said leaning forward "they've actually made it?"

"Oh, it's real professor" Ash said "it looks exactly like a normal pokeball except its purple and gold. It's also under about three layers of security at the moment but yes, it exists."

"That is very worrying Ash" Sam said shaking his head "they made it seem like it was a concept piece during their Q & A session but to have actually made it? They plan on giving the next League Champion one as a prize."

"It's worse than that professor" Ash said "the biggest issue I see with it concerns Legendary Pokémon. If someone gets the bright idea to test it on one and it works, then they're in serious danger. You and I know how important they are to the balance of the world and it's ecosystem professor. To put that in danger simply to make money is abhorrent."

"Well maybe you can use your influence over them to halt it Ash" Delia said.

"What influence?" Ash asked confused.

"I received an email from the President of Silph a few hours ago. They've sent over a contract along with a description of what they're offering you in return" Delia said.

"Mum, I'm still confused. They didn't offer me anything" Ash said.

"Actually, Ash they did." Delia said holding up a piece of paper so they could all see it "You just probably didn't know they did. They're offering to publish your Aura book for free, and further endorse any other books you sell in the future as a thank you for saving them. Not only that but in the future, they want to collaborate with you on technology, books, ideas etc. Anything and everything really. They want to endorse you Ash because they see you as the next big thing, and the want to put their hat in the ring before a bidding war has even started."

"A bidding war?" Ash said shaking his head "Mum, I'm eleven years old."

"Yes, but you won't be forever Ash" Sam said "you've told everyone you know that you will be the future Champion. I've heard from every member of the Elite Four about how impressed they are with your progress and actions. My son, although he naturally favours Gary is worried. He won't come out and say it, but we all know you will be challenging him soon for his position. Even he knows you're a better trainer than my grandson and as much as it pains me to say it, I believe it too. Gary has been spoiled his entire life by my son and had everything handed to him. That's not his fault but it is what it is. He is gifted, but he is also naïve and arrogant. You however have worked hard for everything you have gained so far and in my nearly forty years of being a Pokémon professor you're the only person I have ever endorsed at such a young age. There's a reason for that Ash. There's something about you that draws people in.

So, it's really not a surprise that Silph are trying to sponsor you before anyone else can enter the market. You will be a voice for people very soon, you plan to become Champion and given what you've told us of your journey and progress so far, I have very few doubts you will achieve that goal. I only doubt the timeframe." Holding his hand up to stall any of their protests he continued "there has never been a twelve-year-old Champion Ash. Never. And the Pokémon League will never endorse a Champion younger than eighteen. You're just not mature enough in their eyes to be able to cope with the demands a Champion has. Now that's not to say you can't become Champion, but should you beat Blue before you're eighteen he will stay on in that position until you reach the right age and will train you up in that position. Your father beat Blue at age sixteen who beat the previous Champion Lance at the same age after trying to beat him for several years. But neither of them was allowed to be champion for another few years.

Your father reaching Master status at age 21 was unheard of Ash. Cynthia became champion at 23 which is third behind your father and Blue. That should tell you how difficult becoming a Champion actually is. Now, back to Silph and their offer. You have a destiny Ash, that much is evident. To do what you've done in the world of academics and Pokémon training at such a young age is unprecedented. Silph wanting to sponsor you is a fantastic offer, I doubt you will receive a better one so I suggest you talk with your mother about it. It's a great opportunity. Have they given a deadline Delia?"

"No" she replied "not to sign it, but they did say that they would prefer an answer before the league starts, just so they can start producing merchandise as soon as Ash wins it. Their words by the way. So, we have several months to think it over. I'm going to run it by my lawyers before I leave for Vermillion and hopefully they can give me more information".

"That's very wise Delia" Sam said smiling "I have to go now but think about what I said Ash. The league isn't going to change their laws just to suit you. There's method in their rationality. Let me know what you all decide. I'll have a word with Blue and Charles about this Masterball. No good can come of it, you mark my words." And with that he hung up leaving mum and son to talk for the next hour about the information they had just received. Hanging up that night Ash went to bed with a very full head.

The next day Ash made his way to the Fighting Dojo. Passing by Sabrina's gym along the way Ash was amused to see it closed. Walking further along the path he was about to enter the Dojo when he suddenly stopped as he felt a presence behind him. Shaking his head, he turned around to see Sabrina and her Alakazam. She wasn't alone though. Lucian was there too looking very angry with a big bell like Pokémon behind him.

"Hey guys" Ash said cheerfully "are you guys leaving? Shame really. I was looking forward to getting to know you two."

"Do you have any idea what you've done thing?" Lucian said angrily advancing on him.

"Yes, I do" Ash said looking between them "I believe I have evened the playing field between us all. For too long now, your kind has been allowed to roam free, unchecked while Aura users dwindled. That has now changed."

"You have forced me from my home" Sabrina said stepping forward looking on the verge of tears "I did nothing to you."

"You exist" Ash replied "when you shouldn't. I don't know how you sleep at night, knowing you were about to manipulate an eight-year-old childs brain just to serve your own ambitions. You personally proved to the entire city that you are this generations Malokei."

Looking as if she'd been slapped Ash carried on "I did nothing but let people make up their own minds, while you tried to control them. I didn't try to control anyone, you did. I have a mantra that my mother taught me, and I have been living by for the last six years. It's called 'your actions have consequences' and now you suffer the consequences of your own actions so do not blame me for your own inadequacies. Now, I have a gym battle to fight. If you still need me, I'm sure you can find me."

Turning his back on them he walked into the dojo. Handing his Pokédex to the receptionist he waited until he was called. When he was called, he entered the gym proper and was amazed to see several people training and sparring with their own Pokémon, weights and punching bags dotted around the place as well as several workout areas. It was exactly what he used to do with the Lucario. He realised that at some point he needed to get a fighting Pokémon to keep up his workouts. Sadly, none of his Pokémon could spar with him properly. He'd been relying on Pikachu and Charmeleon, but they weren't ideal. Sending out an Aura pulse to gauge the situation Ash received one back. Immediately he was on edge.

"Guard up Pi" Ash said making his way to the front of the gym "we have unwelcomed guests."

"That's hardly fair, is it Ash?" Riley said stepping forward smiling. At the side of him was a huge, muscled man wearing a Karate Gi. The man's belt was black which told Ash all he needed to know about him.

"Well, I've often thought you lot would be quicker in my grave than I would be Riley" Ash said sarcastically "what are you doing here?"

"I am here to meet the with the Karate Master Richard. The Queen is hoping to re-establish our previous alliance with the fighting gym of Saffron now the abominations have been put in their place" Riley said smiling.

Turning to Richard Ash said, "get it in writing, have it looked over by your lawyers and make sure everything is outlined clearly with no room for interpretation or they'll take a mile with you along with your soul."

"Now there's no need for that Ash." Riley said offended "we honour our word when it is given."

"You throw that word honour around whenever it suits your needs Riley, and you know it" Ash said snorting "when was the last time you did anything considered honourable? I'd wager it was over six years ago before you attacked me at the request of your Queen".

"Is that so?" Richard asked giving him a pointed look.

By now a crowd had gathered around them listening in and at the last statement mutter could be heard as well as suspicious and angry looks.

"I have told you Ash, Queen Ilene did not order me to attack you." Riley said frustrated giving Richard a wary look "and we more than paid for the accidental damage we caused to you and your family."

"Oh, so you did it off your own back then? Please, as I said when you waylaid me at Mt Moon you don't wipe your own arse without her telling you that you can" Ash said snorting "Aura Guardians are never in a place by accident. And Aura Guardians don't need to hold a child's hand to see if they have the gift, they can sense it as soon as they're near them. No, what you did was deliberately planned. As far as I'm concerned the Aura Guardians and Ilene lost any honour and respect I may have eventually had for them that day.

Now you're lucky that my mother has mellowed enough to entertain your Queens request. We're going on holiday for a few weeks soon and we're going to discuss your proposition then. We'll deal with you through safe channels, meetings with lawyers etc. under no circumstances will we come to Rota or the Palace to discuss anything. I will never endanger my mother by putting her in the very place that would see her dead. You can take that back to Ilene." Turning to Richard he said "Now, Sir. I am here for my badge. Shall we?"

Giving both Ash and Riley a searching look he grunted and said "yes, follow me. I should like to hear more about your conversation as it's deeply concerning that an Aura Guardian would attack a child. But there are two sides to every story, and I won't judge until I've heard both. For now, though we'll battle. I'm afraid I haven't had time to plan for a serious challenge, we don't really have a motto yet but what we do have here in Saffron Dojo is an unbreakable bond with our partners. This will be a two-on-two battle with no substitutions from either side. We fight until we drop here, and we go down with honour."

"You hear that Pi" Ash asked Pikachu "we may actually lose a battle!"

"What do you mean? You actually want to lose?" a man dressed up in a Gi said from the side with a Machoke behind him as he walked into the referee's box.

"Well, no, we don't want to lose." Ash replied "We're certainly not going to throw a fight if that's what you're thinking. But I've been involved in over 350 battles now and we have yet to lose one. You learn from your losses, but that hasn't happened. All we seem to have done lately is give others that chance to learn so hopefully we can see areas we need to improve on here."

"That's very impressive Ash" Richard said as he took his position in his box. "Referee?"

"This fight will be a two-on-two fight with no substitutions from either side allowed." The ref stated "The winner will be the one who has a Pokémon standing at the end. On one side we have the Karate Master Richard, on the other side is the challenger Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town. Let the battle begin."

"Hitmonlee, you're up" Richard said as he released a Pokémon that was around 5 feet tall that looked like it had slinkies for legs. Pointing his Pokédex at it Dexter bleeped to life

"Hitmonlee, Pokédex Number 106, The kicking Pokémon, and the evolved form of Tyrogue. This Pokémon is male. This amazing Pokémon has an awesome sense of balance. It can kick in succession from any position."

"Wow. I remember seeing Bruno's on TV and that was impressive so I've been looking forward to battling one of these. Let's go Charmeleon. Now Charmeleon, this is a battle until you drop. You won't be recalled until you're down or they are. Do your best. Let's get in close, use Slash."

"Dodge Hitmonlee" Richard said.

Charmeleon charged towards the Hitmonlee who pivoted out of the way. Charmeleon kept on trying to land a hit but was unsuccessful. It soon began to get angry until Ash shouted "Focus Charmeleon. It's trying to get you angry and tired. This is where all those cardio training sessions will come into play so as soon as you get an opening use Slash and Fire Fang."

"That's enough Hitmonlee, stop playing around now. We've had a good warm up, use Counter followed by Rolling Kick" Hitmonlee moved with a grace Ash had never seen before and in two hits sent Charmeleon flying where he crashed into the ground. Standing up Charmeleon shook itself off and got into his defensive stance.

"That's a very nice Pokémon you have there, Ash. Not many Pokémon can take Hitmonlee's attacks like that" Richard said looking at the action "Hitmonlee, use Jump Kick."

Without waiting Hitmonlee launched itself into the air and headed towards Charmeleon. Quickly rolling out of the way Charmeleon sprang back up and slashed its back sending it stumbling forward. "Quickly Charmeleon use Slash again" doing so Charmeleon charged forwards and slashed Hitmonlee's back making it cry out in agony as it leapt away to Richards side where it landed and went down to one knee wincing.

"Dragon Claw Charmeleon. Get in close again." Ash shouted.

"Charge and use Jump Kick Hitmonlee" Richard responded.

Both of the charged at each other and landed their attacks sending them both flying back where they lay on their backs panting. After thirty seconds Charmeleon and Hitmonlee slowly got back to their feet, clearly exhausted. Ash and Richard both had a feeling that one more attack would win them the battle.

"Close Combat Hitmonlee" Richard shouted.

"Flamethrower Charmeleon" Ash shouted before immediately regretting it.

That was the first mistake Ash had made in a long time in a Pokémon battle. While it hit Hitmonlee it charged through the flames and recklessly battered Charmeleon who did his best to defend itself. But Ash's call had left him wide open and so a burned Hitmonlee, on its last legs delivered the final kick knocking Charmeleon out. Seeing its opponent faint Hitmonlee slowly made its way across the battlefield and waited panting for his next opponent.

"Thank you Charmeleon" Ash said recalling him "that one is my fault. You're up Pi" and Pikachu jumped onto the field waiting instructions.

"That was a fantastic battle Ash" Richard said, "and if it wasn't for your mistake at the end, it could well have been a win for you."

"I agree" Ash said "small margins and errors often decide battles. That one was my fault; I should have had Charmeleon guard as best it could and wait for an opening and while we nearly won it still means we actually lost. We can improve on that so thank you. Sadly though Hitmonlee won't beat Pikachu but we can at least give it a noble ending. Pi, you know the combination."

At that before Richard could react Pikachu charged forwards faster than most eyes could see and smashed into Hitmonlee with his tail sending Hitmonlee flying out of the battlefield where he landed unconscious. Trotting back to Ash Pikachu waited for his next opponent.

"Now that was some impressive speed" Richard said recalling his downed Pokémon "we'll have to try and match that. Come on out Hitmonchan" a big Pokémon, with boxing gloves appeared crying its name and got into a defensive stance awaiting instructions.

"And there's the second one of the trio. Another one I saw Bruno use in a League battle." Ponting Dexter again he beeped to life.

"Hitmonchan, Pokedex Number 105, The Punching Pokémon and the evolved form of Tyrogue. Its punches slice the air in lightning-fast volleys that are impossible to see. However, it seems to need a short break after fighting for three minutes."

"Yup thought so" Ash said "this Pokémon is going to hit hard Pi, so all these defence training sessions are definitely going to come in handy here. It seems cardio isn't its strong point so maybe we can use that."

Laughing Richard said "I wouldn't count on it Ash. We spar every day for hours at a time to cover that weakness."

"So do we" Ash said nodding "Pikachu's defences are notorious for being bad, so we sparred every day since we found each other four months ago to cover that weakness."

"You spar with your Pokémon?" Richard asked interested.

"Yeah" Ash said "I trained for five years with the Lucario from Cameron Palace as reparations for what they did to me. For the last year of that training, I was undefeated by any of them so I decided to carry that on with all my Pokémon. Unfortunately, they're not fighting Pokémon, so we had to limit what we do and tailor each Pokémon's sessions. Pi is not as brittle as people believe he is."

"Are you after a fighting type?" Richard asked making everyone interested in his response.

"I am yes" Ash said, "unfortunately the ideal fighting type for me is one I have no intention of getting." Seeing his confused face, he continued "a Riolu or Lucario would be the most beneficial to me as I'm an Aura Wielder. Unfortunately, I don't trust them. All of them report to Rota or Cameron Palace at some point as they believe being an Aura Guardian is a noble cause and none I have spoken to have swayed from that line of thought. And Riolu eggs are extremely rare so I can't train one to see my point of view from birth and I have no intention of getting one from Rota. So, I'm stuck on what fighting type to try and get."

"Are you defensive minded or offensive minded?" Richard asked curious.

"I would say both really. I can defend myself pretty well, but I also know when to attack and when I do I go all out. If pushed I'd say I'm defensive minded. Why?" Ash asked.

Shrugging Richard said "just curiosity. Now, shall we get on with the battle?"

"Yes, let's" Ash said "Pi, its defences are really good, and they counterattack so beware of how you land after you attack. I'm going to leave this one up to you, but I will shout attacks every now and then when I see an opening. Go for it Pi."

"Hitmonchan, keep your guard up. It's fast and can hit hard. Do what you can to find a gap and when you do exploit it."

The next ten minutes flew by with a series of tit-for-tat attacks from both parties. Occasionally Pikachu and Hitmonchan would be sent flying backwards, but they were instantly on their feet ready to go back into the melee. For time-to-time Ash and Richard would find openings to exploit but the battle was seemingly destined to end in a draw. It seemed by mutual consent at the ten-minute mark to both go to their sides of the field where they both stared at the other panting heavily.

"Well, it's good that Hitmonchan doesn't seem to have the Iron-Fist ability" Ash said "or this would be a different battle. Inner Focus is a good hidden one that Hitmonchan seems to have."

"Indeed" Richard responded "it's also pleasing your Pikachu doesn't have Static or again this would be difficult. But we need to end this, Ash. Hitmonchan use Close Combat" Hitmonchan charged forward but this time Ash was ready.

"Pi, light it up." Richard thought Ash had fallen for the same trap and smiled, that was until Pikachu sent Hitmonchan flying backwards knocked out from the power of the Thunderbolt attack. "Bloody hell" he said under his breath.

"Hitmonchan is unable to battle, Pikachu wins, therefore Ash Ketchum has won the battle."

Walking forwards Ash picked up Pikachu and they both celebrated. "That was fantastic Pikachu!"

"How did that happen?" Richard asked walking over to Ash.

"You forgot about the structure of the attack I used" Ash said "Flamethrower is a widespread move, meaning when launched it spreads outwards from its source, so it has a larger area to hit, the downside to that is that the move loses potency the further out it goes. Thunderbolt on the other hand is a lance, it has one target point and when it hits it then spreads out at the point of contact which means it has a lot more impact and potency when it hits. Hitmonlee could charge through a Flamethrower because he could let it wash over him as he charged, Hitmonchan couldn't. Plus, Pikachu is very powerful".

"Wow" Richard said shaking his head "you learn something every day."

"As you should" Ash said nodding "that was a really good battle. I much prefer those types of battles. Being able to switch out is too easy because you can try and use type advantage and i don't believe there's any real strategy in that. It's also the reason why I didn't use any ranged attacks until the end, simply to secure the win. Fighting Pokémon are lethal in close combat, from a distance they're much easier to deal with. So, I gave us more of a challenge, just to see how our sparring sessions are working out and I'm glad I did. My mistake cost Charmeleon the battle, he's really not going to be happy with me for that one."

"I did wonder why you didn't use any ranged attacks" Richard mused "that makes sense now. And that's the point of a battle, you learn from your errors. I know that I will be more cautious from now on before using Close Combat. Anyway, you've more than earned your badge, Ash. Here, I present to you the Kata Badge" he said holding out a circular badge with a fist and a belt embossed on its shield.

"Thank you. That's four now Pi" Ash said showing Pikachu the badge. "Just four more to get."

"Halfway there Ash. Now, I'm afraid I have other things to do today. Making sure the gym is fit for purpose as an official gym could take weeks yet so I thank you for the battle and wish you all the best" Richard said putting a fist in his other palm and bowing. Ash did the same, thanked him and left. His Pokémon needed the Centre. And hopefully Charmeleon would forgive him for his mistake.

After he left Riley left the seating area and walked up to Richard.

"He is very impressive, isn't he?" Riley said.

"He certainly is Riley" Richard replied "your conduct towards him however is concerning. He is right about one thing; you don't do anything without Queen Ilene ordering you to. Which means you were in Pallet Town all those years ago on her orders. So, officially I am giving you a message for your Queen regarding our alliance. Until she gives me a reasonable explanation for why she ordered you to attack a young boy without provocation, we will put our alliance on hold. When she does that, to my satisfaction I will re-establish our alliance."

"You would make demands of our Queen like that?" Riley asked outrage on his face.

"Yes, I would and mind your tone boy. I don't care who you now take orders off, I did not raise you to behave in such a manner. And while we're on that subject, before you leave Saffron you will go and see your mother and inform her of what you did" Richard said sternly holding his hand up "there will be no excuses, Riley. You have lied to her for the past six years about what happened that day. You will do so no more. Is that understood?"

"Yes father" Riley said hanging his head turning to leave "before I go though, why did you never answer the Queens call when you discovered your aura?"

"The life of an Aura Guardian is a solitary one. I met your mother when I was seven and knew she was it for me instantly, I didn't discover my aura until I was in my twenties and by that time, I had already married her and had a life here in this gym." Richard said after a moment of thinking "No one will ever take me from your mother. She has been my one thing in this life who I know I could count on to not only put me in my place but to also be by my side while doing so. And until today I believed you had listened to the cautionary tales that we instilled in you. I see I was wrong about that. Go and see your mother, I will know if you have not." With that Richard left to go to his office leaving a sullen Riley to trudge to his parent's house on the outskirts of the city. Knocking on the door he prepared himself for what was to come. This would not be fun.

Chapter 16: Chapter 16- Chats

Chapter Text

Chapter 16- Chats

Ash woke up early the next day to get the bus back to Vermillion. Grumbling about long bus journeys he sat down for a ten-hour ride. Getting into Vermillion he headed straight to the Pokémon Centre where he spoke to Joy, headed straight to his room to phone his mother and to let her know he was there and that their hotel was booked for the next week. She informed him that she had a few things she needed to do before she asked Sam for his Dragonite to give her a lift, but she'd be there for Sunday evening. As it was Friday evening Ash decided to go for a meal on the harbour.

Sitting down at a restaurant he was enjoying a nice relaxing evening when someone tapped him on the shoulder him making him look up in surprise. When he did, he did a double take. It was Lt Surge only he wasn't alone. Beside him was an extremely beautiful woman and a girl around his age. The woman was tall, blonde and had an air of refined elegance about her. The girl though was tall, around 5 foot 8, blonde hair and had bright blue eyes. Ash had to admit she was incredibly beautiful.

"Er" Ash said his mouth feeling suddenly dry.

Lt Surge just let out a big booming laugh. "On a battlefield he's assured and articulate, put him in front of a young lady and his shyness shows through. Who'd have thought, eh?" by this point the woman was laughing, the young girl had a smile on her face and Pikachu was on the floor crying.

"Hey!" Ash said looking at Pikachu "is there any need Pi?"

"Oh, there's every need" Pikachu said "this is the second time now. First Lorelei and then this young lady. Are you in love again?"

"I was not in love the first time Pikachu" Ash said grumpily "I just did not expect Lorelei to sit down and join me for breakfast like she'd known us for years. I seem to recall you trying to show me up that time too."

"What can I say?" Pikachu said climbing back onto the table "I'm the gift that keeps on giving."

"You can say that again" Ash mumbled "Hello Lt Surge. I'm afraid I don't know you lovely ladies though."

"Smooth" Pikachu said around an apple slice.

"I thought so too" Ash mumbled back causing Lt Surge and the young woman to laugh.

"Ash this beautiful woman is my wife Audrey, and the 'lovely young lady' is my daughter Elesa" Lt Surge said as proud as any father can be.

"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you all." Ash said nodding at them "what can I do you for Lt Surge?"

"Oh, nothing really. We were just on our way out for a meal here, had a table booked for 8 and we just happened to see you. We have an hour to spare before we go to our table" Lt Surge said cheerfully.

"Try the Calamari" Ash said instantly "Even Pikachu liked it and he's very fussy about what he puts in his body. Something about it 'being a temple'."

"Funnily enough that's Elesa favourite" Lt Surge said laughing.

"She has good taste then" Ash said smoothly and smiling at her. "I'm very sorry, where are my manners? My name is Ash Ketchum, future Pokémon League Champion."

"Hi!" Elesa said exuberantly "I know who you are. I read everything I could about your thoughts and feelings about Electric Pokémon. It kind of made me wish I could become an electric gym leader myself. They're just so unique."

"Why can't you?" Ash said confused "I mean you already have the best person to be able to teach you about the demands of being a gym leader."

"I know" Elesa replied "but I've just been signed by a model agency in Unova. Mum and I will be moving there for the next year, which is sad because we won't see dad as much, but I don't think I could combine being a model and a gym leader at the same time."

"Ah I see" Ash said nodding "well I'm sure once you've established yourself as a model, you'll be able to pick and choose what you'd like to do."

"I hope so" Elesa said.

"It's going to be incredibly difficult being away from Frank" Audrey said, "we've been together now about 30 years."

"Known each other 35" Lt Surge put in smiling at her. "Been together for 31."

"That's incredible" Ash said smiling "I hope for that one day" he finished looking away.

"What's wrong Ash?" Elesa asked.

Looking at her he wondered the best way to phrase what he was about to say. In the end the truth is all he had. First though he turned to Lt Surge and asked, "How old is Elesa and has she had the talk yet?" causing her to blush heavily. Roaring with laughter Lt Surge took a few moments to compose himself he nodded "she's 15 and yes".

Turning to a tomato red Elesa he said "I'm sorry about that but it was a necessary question. I'm an Aura Wielder. Now while everyone has access to Aura, very few can wield it and shape it to suit their needs. I'm one of those few but being gifted comes at a price. We fall in love for life, with one person only and we don't always find that person. Sometimes we do and they're already taken. When we reach the age of 16 our Aura sends out pings in our local area every few weeks hoping for a ping back. Think of it like sonar, where a blip is what you're looking for. So, the majority of us grow up mentally preparing to live a very solitary life. Casual affairs are not possible because when we have sex our Aura intertwines with our partner and strengthens our bond. It's just not possible with someone we aren't in love with. So, while I hope to have a relationship one day, I'm also very aware that I might never find my destined partner."

"Oh, that's so sad" Audrey said grabbing Lt Surge's hand "I don't know what I'd do without Frank."

"I don't know how my mother has done it either" Ash said "ever since my father disappeared, she often gets this lost look on her face. Our auras resonate with our chosen life-mates, theirs reciprocates. So, when that's no longer an option you feel like there's a part of you permanently missing and there's a hollow feeling you get. It's very sad."

"I can see why Frank likes you" Audrey suddenly said "for days after your battle he raved about how a kid was putting Electrical Pokémon back on the map. He also like your no-nonsense attitude when he asked about his treatment of other trainers that challenged him."

"To put it lightly they were cretins, Mrs Surge" Ash said frowning "they deliberately put their Pokémon in harm's way with their own foolishness and arrogance. Who the hell challenges an electric gym with a Pidgey or an unevolved Water Type. Even Lorelei told me that she wouldn't do that if she had the choice. The disrespect to Lt Surge in doing that was appalling and if I was a full professor, I'd have revoked their licenses on the spot. Your husband has his hands tied by the league on idiots like that so all he can do is make an example of them which I'm glad he did. I shouldn't really tell you this, but Professor Oak warned me before challenging you that you had complaints levelled against you that Blue told him of about being 'brutal'. I spoke to Professor Oak about the complaints he received and told him to throw them all away after witnessing what I did over the week I was here before challenging your husband. I believe he has done."

"Wow" Audrey said, "they really complained?"

"Oh yes" Ash said "in fairness if Lt Surge had of told Nurse Joy what was happening, she'd have told Professor Oak the same. All she knew was that trainers were bringing their Pokémon into the centre in critical condition. I can't remember who I talked to about it, but I doubt your husband had Raichu use more than 20% of Raichu's power against them."

"I didn't" Lt Surge grunted "but you're right. The League has my nuts in a vice regarding who can and cannot challenge me so I have no choice but to accept all challengers. It's the downside of being a gym leader. I asked Raichu to send a statement every time but not to go overboard to show the trainers how serious a Pokémon battle could be. But thank you for your interference on my behalf. I was getting tired of ignoring those emails and I did wonder why they suddenly stopped."

After a few minutes silence Lt Surge asked him how he'd been and if Pikachu was stronger now.

"Much stronger" Ash said smiling rubbing his best friend on the head "he's very nearly mastered Thunder now. His Thunderbolt was near that level when we fought your Raichu but during the last month or so it's developed into Thunder. Our next move is Volt Tackle. It's just working out the mechanics of it that's the issue at the moment."

"What do you mean?" Elesa asked leaning forward clearly interested "and why?"

"Well Volt Tackle is the Pichu lines strongest move." Ash said having a drink "you're essentially combining Quick Attack, Thunderbolt/Thunder and Double Edge. So, the obvious draw back to that is the massive amount of recoil you would get. The Pichu line are known for being fast, so a fast move that combines with a recoil move can seriously hurt the user too. Now Pikachu is very tough, we targeted his defence as an area to work on and improve months ago and so far it has paid off as we have just had a very physical fight with the new Saffron Gym Leader. We deliberately didn't use a ranged move except to guarantee a finish to see how far we'd come in the four months we've been together. Pikachu here went toe-to-toe with a Hitmonchan and won. So, we know his defence is pretty good now. But as I said the mechanics of combining the three moves is taking some working out."

"Raichu tried to learn that move years ago" Lt Surge supplied helpfully "I know what you mean. I suggest you focus on combining the Quick Attack and Thunderbolt first. Get used to running around covering yourself in electricity and not attacking anything. Then learn Take Down before progressing onto Double Edge. Trust me on this. While it's not as powerful as the latter it still trains your Pokémon's body for recoil, making learning and coping with Double Edge easier. After that Pikachu should master Volt Tackle in no time."

"Thank you" Ash said happily "we've been stuck at an impasse for a week now wondering what we were doing wrong."

"You were trying too many things to think about at once" Elesa said chirping in "it's not surprising you were struggling."

"Why are you back in Vermillion anyway Ash?" Lt Surge asked.

"Well, you remember the tournament I won here. The first prize for that was two tickets for a cruise on the SS Anne." Ash said, "so I rang my mum up and asked her to join me for a few weeks. She's getting here Sunday afternoon; we're spending a week here at the Norbrek before three weeks on the SS Anne."

"Oh, that's so sweet" Audrey said making Ash blush again.

"She's the only family I have" Ash said "and I have really missed her the last few months. Going out on your own journey, leaving loved ones behind isn't easy. And chatting to her every few nights isn't the same. I'm looking forward to it. I've promised all my Pokémon that apart from light sessions in the onboard gym we will all be able to relax and not think about battles. Mum and I have a lot to catch up on. And after how rough the last ten years has been on her she deserves to be treated."

"You're just adorable" Audrey said "Elesa is the same with me. But she's very much daddy's little girl." Which earned a nod and a laugh from both Lt Surge and Elesa.

"Oh" Ash said suddenly "I was going to come and see you sometime this week Lt Surge as I have something I think you'd like. Hand it over Pi."

Giving Ash a small glare he concentrated and out of his left cheek sac an object materialised causing Lt Surge and Elesa to gasp as they immediately recognised what it was.

"A light ball?" Elesa breathed as Ash plucked it out of the air and placed it on the table "where did you get that? They cost about $40,000 each and you're just giving it up?"

"We got them at Power Plant" Ash said "Zapdos owed me a favour, and as Pikachu will never evolve, we turned the two Thunderstones we had into two Light Balls. Zapdos was very helpful with that. So, as we had a spare, I thought I'd give it to Lt Surge for Raichu. I got the impression he was a bit sad to learn Pikachu's potential electrical output is greater than his own, and I have a spare Light Ball just lying around in my bag. It's a no brainer to me."

"Zapdos owed you a favour?" Elesa shouted before lowering her voice at the attention it attracted "a Zapdos?"

Ash just nodded and said "we literally saved its life. It was probably half an hour away from death when we rescued him. Pikachu spent every bit of electricity he had to charge Zapdos up enough for it to be able to use its own electrical power again. It took us an hour of constant Thunderbolts to get to that point before we had a brainwave and used the storm outside to act as a conduit between that, Pikachu's lightningrod ability and Zapdos itself. After that it healed itself with the storm. But to thank us it shaped the Thunderstones I had into these."

Picking it up Lt Surge examined it "It's not a ball" he grunted making Ash laugh and say "I said the same thing. but then again given how they're formed they wouldn't be."

"How are they formed?" Elesa asked.

"Well, I don't know how they're normally formed but Elemental stones aren't round are they." Ash said looking at her "Zapdos used the biggest Thunder I have ever seen to melt the two stones I had into these shapes. He overloaded the evolution component in the gemstones, amplified the electrical one and warped it. I wish I could have recorded it, but we were too in awe of the output we were witnessing. Sadly though they're not as great an addition as I thought."

"What do you mean?" Lt Surge asked curiously.

"Well, Pikachu's output is already in the top 2% of all recorded Pikachu. He mastered Thundershock as a Pichu with no recoil happening and while a light Ball usually offers around 25% more electrical energy, we've found it only gives Pikachu around 10%. So, it's only slightly more useful to us than it should be. It comes into play in a pinch for us rather than all the way through a battle. Hopefully it helps Raichu out."

Nodding Lt Surge looked at his watch and saw it was time for them to go to their own table. Thanking him for the conversation Lt Surge slipped Ash a card with his personal number on it and said goodbye. Ash immediately stored the number. He could see himself keeping in touch with Lt Surge. Getting back to the room Pikachu rummaged around Ash's bag before pulling the spare Light Ball out and infusing it in his cheeks. Giving Ash a glare he jumped onto the bed and pretended to fall asleep. Chuckling Ash got ready for bed and was out like a light.

The next day Ash received a call while he was in the gym from Nurse Joy informing him that he had a visitor at reception. After showering Ash trudged up to the reception and saw a woman there in a blue uniform. Recognizing her immediately he walked over and greeted her.

"Hi Officer Jenny" Ash said shaking her hand "Thank you for this. How have they been?"

"They've been really good Ash" Jenny said "they've quickly become a great addition to the team. So, Ash, do you still want to go through with this?"

Nodding ash smiled "yeah I do, it's only for a week so it's not going to be that long."

"Very well" Jenny said, "shall we inform them?"

"Outside?" Ash asked as he led the way. Sitting down on a bench outside Ash called out Squirtle while Jenny did the same with the four Ash caught many weeks earlier. Looking around Squirtle wondered what was happening when he noticed his friends and immediately threw himself at them forming a big group hug. After a few minutes of chatter between them Squirtle remembered Ash.

"What's going on Ash?" Squirtle asked confused.

"Well do you remember the conversation you had with us all the night before we entered Saffron?" Ash asked earning a confused nod "well the next day I phoned Jenny up to arrange something for you. So, we leave on the SS Anne next Saturday afternoon, until that time you will get to spend that week with Jenny and your friends. You will be required to attend their fire-fighting training sessions but apart from that you five have the week together."

Immediately Squirtle teared up and launched himself at Ash thanking him. "Have fun Squirtle." Ash said smiling and handing Jenny Squirtle's Pokéball. "I shall see you in a week." Recalling him he gave Jenny the location of his hotel. "I'm aware some job may come up at the last minute, I checked the SS Anne, and it has a Pokéball transporter. If for any reason you can't get Squirtle back to me on time then don't worry about it. Just send him to Professor Oak and he'll transfer him to me at our next opportunity."

"Thank you, Ash," Jenny said standing up "this is a really nice thing you're doing for them."

"They lived a harsh life Jenny" Ash said "Squirtle's life-story hit me hard. Abandoned by their trainers, left to fend for themselves and resorted to stealing to survive. I'm not absolving any of them of what they did. Stealing food to survive is one thing, stealing a little girls medicine because they could do is another and crossed a line."

"The little girl survived" Jenny said happily "we found it immediately in their horde and she is fine now."

"That's good" Ash said nodding "I'll hopefully see you in a week."

The rest of the day passed by quite slowly. He didn't know what time his mother was getting into Vermillion yet, but their hotel rooms were booked for 10am. Explaining what he had done for Squirtle had made them all happy. It gave them yet another reason to believe Ash was worthy of them all. There's no doubt that an extra week of training before relaxing on the SS Anne could have benefited them but putting that aside for Squirtle's mental health was an incredible gesture and reiterated how lucky they all were to have Ash as their trainer.

The next day Ash packed his things and made his way to their new hotel. The Norbrek was situated literally on the doorstep of the harbour and gave them magnificent views of the boats and the sea. For that reason it wasn't cheap but as Ash could afford it and as he wanted to spoil his mum he thought why the hell not. Checking in he followed the bellhop to the rooms he had booked. His mother's room was next door to his but had a door on the inside that could be locked from either side for privacy. Walking in Ash was astounded at the opulence of the room. It had a big double bed, a TV on the wall, a fridge in the corner as well as a comfy chair next to a bookcase. Just off to the side was a bathroom with a shower and a huge bath. Dropping his bag, he walked to the window and gasped in amazement at how magnificent the view was. He could see why the rooms were expensive.

For the next few hours Ash unpacked and made himself comfy. He was very nervous, and he couldn't understand why. He had lived with his mum for eleven years after all and he spoke to her all the time. Maybe it was because they had a lot to talk about, maybe it was because he missed her. Either way he was startled when his room phone rang. Picking it up he was informed by reception that he had a visitor. Excited Ash all but leapt out of the room and impatiently rode the elevator down and walking into the reception area he immediately saw her and teared up. He had really missed his mum. Rushing to her and giving her a hug, he said hello.

"Hi sweetheart" Delia said happily "I've missed you too. Look how much you've grown! You're like a weed!"

Laughing Ash picked up her bag and showed her the way to her room. Opening the door for her Delia stopped as soon as she entered. "wow" she said after several seconds.

"I know" Ash said laughing "that was my reaction to my room. Which seems to be an exact mirror image to yours. However, I have something better for you. Now, close your eyes and hold out your hand and follow my lead." Looking at him curiously he led her to the balcony and told her to open her eyes where she immediately let out a gasp. "Look at that view!"

"I know right?" Ash said excitedly. "Just think Mum, in a weeks' time we'll be on that view sailing around Kanto for three weeks! Three weeks mum!"

"And you're still certain you want me around you for that amount of time?" Delia asked him looking a bit concerned.

"Of course, I do!" Ash said immediately cheering her up "I've missed you loads mum. It's been a rough four and a half months and we have lots to catch up on. First however, let's get you unpacked."

"Ah, ah" Delia said "I will unpack my own things, Ash. For now, make yourself useful and put the kettle on."

"Mum" Ash said laughing "we don't have a kettle. For what I pay for the rooms we get free room delivery and I just pay the amount owed at the end of the week. Don't worry" he said quickly before she could say anything "I'm good for it mum. There are perks to being a junior professor and a semi-famous author that I'll tell you all about over lunch. Do you want it up here or at a café?"

"Give me an hour to unpack Ash" Delia said smiling "and we'll go out shall we while it's such a nice day."

"Will do mum." Ash said leaving "I'll leave the middle door open so just come through when you're ready." Before he exited the door he looked back and said "I'm really glad you're here mum. I've really missed you." Smiling Delia hummed to herself and unpacked. Letting Eevee and Cleffa out of their Pokéballs she told them where they were and what they would be doing for the next four weeks earning cheers. Cleffa was still on edge, but as it was Ash who rescued her, she would give him a try. She hadn't wanted to leave Delia after the recovery period was up, and Delia was more than happy to keep her. Cleffa and Eevee got on very well together too which helped.

A few hours later they were sat at a small café on the harbour eating sandwiches and talking about their plans.

"So, tell me Ash, what's the plans for the cruise?" Delia asked.

"Well, it stops at a few places that I'm interested in." Ash replied "the first stop is about a week in at Porta Vista for a few days. Its marine life there is protected and has developed into a great reef, ideal for water types and other fishes. Then a few days later it stops at Seafoam Islands where they do a tour of the first two levels of the Ice Cave. The other levels are off limits as it's said Articuno has its lair there and is protected by the League so we may be able to meet her. Unlikely though as around this time of the year she's at Orange Islands for the ceremony that happens there. Sam told me about that, he goes whenever he can to that. The last stop after Seafoam is at Fuschia City. The Safari Zone is said to be there but I'm planning on visiting there at another time, so I won't be getting off there. I also know you'll likely want to talk about the information I sent you. We'll have to do that on there because there's nowhere secure here to do so. I'm sorry we have to wait that long but outside of our own home its too easy for people to listen in."

"That's fine Ash" Delia said smiling slightly "what I have pieced together left me angry, I won't lie to you."

"Me too mum" Ash said, "if as I suspect, we have the same thoughts on it then yeah, I'm very angry too."

"You were about to explain why you booked the Norbrek before and not a regular hotel" Delia said giving him a pointed look.

"Yes" Ash said finishing off his sandwich and taking out his Pokégear and Pokédex. Clicking on a few buttons they linked up and Dexter bleeped to life making a few others look over wondering what was going on.

"Trainer Ash Ketchum; Pokédex Number AK191298. Career Battles, 356, 355 wins, 1 unsanctioned loss. Trainer career earnings to date: $188,670. Junior Professor earnings to date; $7.600,000 Total money; $7,788,670 Pokédollars."

Shutting them both off Ash looked at his mother's face and had to stop himself from laughing. "Since I started as a trainer, I haven't lost a single battle. The unsanctioned battles I had are unsanctioned because I refused to take prize money off the youngsters that I knew couldn't really afford it or just wanted a fun battle. Mainly bug catchers, and junior trainers. The gym leaders though give you a set amount of money dependent on the number of badges you have OR the challenge you face. As I have faced two Elite Challenges with Brock and Lt Surge the amount of money I would normally receive was tripled. The rest soon mounts up. Plus, as a junior professor I don't have to pay for any items that total under $10,000 at any mart and as I have only four Pokémon my needs aren't massive. And I make sure to re-stock every town or city I get to, so my bag is never out of items. It has helped me save up the entire time I've been travelling.

My biggest spending spree was at the beginning when I spent around $60,000 on weights, vitamins and food but you know about that. We'll likely only need to restock those in a few months. I may do it on SS Anne if they're selling them there. So, as you see Mum, I've been very good with money, I've not bought needless junk and not spent anything extortionate. The cruise is fully paid for by the League, so I thought I'd treat you to a nice stay overlooking the harbour. Apart from the occasional visit to Viridian to see Uncle Giovanni you've not left Pallet Town in over eleven years. You deserve to be treated mum and until we find out what happened to dad, and he can take over I will do what I can to make sure you want for nothing. So, if you want anything for room service just ring and ask. You're not spending anything I will miss."

After his impassioned speech he noticed that the café around them was silent. Looking round he noticed a lot of crying happening, lots of tissues being used with the occasional "what a nice boy" being uttered and generally pride on peoples faces. Looking back at his mum he noticed she was crying too. Standing up he gave her a long hug before letting her compose herself.

"You know over the last four months" Delia began "there's been so many times where I've wanted to halt your journey because of the incidents that have happened because of your immaturity or naivety. But then when I actually see you and hear things like that it makes me happy that I've raised such a kind young man and I immediately regret those thoughts. I do love you Ashy. Thank you."

"You don't ever have to thank me for looking after you now that I can Mum" Ash said smiling "now, come on. I found a place that does amazing ice cream."

The rest of the week was a whirlwind of training, trips out in the harbour, good food and generally having a really nice time with his mum. The SS Anne had arrived at the harbour on the Tuesday to be outfitted for its next voyage. It was a beautiful piece of machinery Ash thought as they walked along the beach and saw it from afar. He was still stunned that in a few days' time he would be onboard it.

On the Thursday Ash received an email from Professor Oak about the incident in Saffron where after an official investigation he officially stated Ash did nothing wrong in the eyes of the League and would face no actions against him. Ringing Sam up it he talked to him about the email.

"I wasn't even aware there was an investigation that I was part of Sam" Ash said confused.

"Of course, there was Ash." Sam said perplexed "You had a gym leader fired and replaced. Now I know you didn't plan on it; the League officially recognises that too but the reasons behind it, the people involved, and the outcome had to have an official investigation to legally tie it all up was to prevent Sabrina from suing both you and the League. You're on record stating you gave them the option of leaving the city of their own free will to test out your theory, and we have around forty witnesses that can state the same thing and a witness statement from Nurse Joy about the confrontation in her centre which started the whole thing. You never forced anyone to go through with it. That had to be recognised so you have no worries about what happened and no reprisals from the League. Mr Suzuki corroborated your report too which added significant weight. That's all the email was about."

"Oh" Ash said "that makes sense. So why didn't I get one about Cerulean?"

"You did" Sam said surprising him "I just never forwarded it on as Lorelei intervened and sorted it out. I informed your mother, but as it had been sorted out within the next few days there was no need to inform you."

"Oh" Ash said again "fair enough. Oh, before you go, you may get a call from Officer Jenny in Vermillion City. She has my Squirtle for the week, he's getting some training with the fire-brigade. I've told her that if a job comes up last minute for them to just send you his Pokéball and I'll get him whenever I next have the chance as we're packing up tomorrow and the cruise starts the day after. I don't know where the Pokéball transporter is located onboard either yet so it seemed like the most sensible option."

"No worries, Ash" Sam said, "look after your mum and have fun!"

"We will do" Ash said, "bye professor."

The next few days passed by quickly. Ash received a very big surprise though when Jenny turned up to the Norbrek to hand him back Squirtle.

"Something happened Ash." Jenny said sitting down on a chair in Ash's room with his mum and Pokémon listening in "we had a call the evening before last night to put out a fire just north of Vermillion. Some young lads had set fire to a patch of grass in the middle of the forest and soon the entire thing was up in flames. A young lady named Melanie has a house in those woods where she looks after sick and injured Pokémon" which immediately made Bulbasaur stand up and walk towards Jenny, concern and fear on his face "she's ok but she was very worried about the Pokémon in those woods. Squirtle just happened to be near me when he heard what she said and rushed off with his four friends in tow. They managed to find her little house and doused the fires that were about a mile away from her house. Now I don't know why but Squirtle took charge of everyone that day and managed to put out the fire in that area. When they returned to us though he wasn't the same anymore."

"What do you mean" Ash asked concerned "is he ok?"

"See for yourself" Jenny said handing Ash his Pokéball. With trepidation he called out "come on out Squirtle" only what came out wasn't a Squirtle. It was a Wartortle.

"Oh wow" Ash said, "you evolved?"

"I sure did Ash" Wartortle said his voce much deeper. He was a beautiful deep purple; his shell had deepened from a light green to an emerald green and his ears and tail were a very pale green.

"Why?" Ash asked.

Turning to face Bulbasaur he replied "because Bulbasaur's Melanie was in danger."

"You evolved to protect Melanie?" Ash asked.

"Yeah, I know how devastated Bulbasaur would have been if he found out his home for the last few years had been burned down" Wartortle said "he's been a great friend to me over the last month or so. He's also never really judged me or condemned me for my past so I did what I could to help. Her place is safe and the Pokémon she looks after are too. I did my job."

"You certainly did" Jenny said after Ash translated it for them all. "And he did us all proud. We would be honoured to take him in anytime he wants."

"We'll likely take you up on that offer in a few months. Once I've gained all my badges, I should still have a few months between then and the league where we're going to train like crazy. I was going to ask you to take him again for about a month of that, to train him to see through smoke or fog or any other weather conditions more accurately. Plus, I know how much he missed his friends so that's just an added bonus for his mental wellbeing."

"We'll be honoured Ash" Jenny said standing up "I'm relieved you weren't mad at him evolving."

"My Pokémon and I have had this conversation many times. They evolve if and when they want to" Ash said simply "and if Wartortle didn't want to evolve then he wouldn't have done. It's always been his choice. I'm very proud of him for helping Melanie out."

Leaving Ash introduced Wartortle to his mother and they had a long conversation about what he'd done for the week with his friends.

"Mum" Ash said suddenly "how come you can understand Pokémon?"

Laughing she said "I was wondering when you would ask that Ash. I've been with you a week now you never thought of asking?"

"Well, no" Ash said scratching his head "it's normal to me now so I don't really notice it when others do it."

"Well, I'm not sure you're old enough for the real answer yet Ash" his mum said with a smirk on her face "the gist of it is that your fathers and my Aura mingled at certain times, and I developed a few traits when it entered my body. Over time I was able to understand Pokémon."

After giving it thought for thirty seconds, he immediately turned bright red and his eyes bugged out "there it is" Delia said laughing "now, that's the only explanation you're ever going to get."

Message received Ash walked off shaking his head, leaving Delia and his Pokémon laughing.

The next day Ash had placed that particular conversation with his mum placed in the furthest part of his brain possible. He knew what his mother was talking about as he had given Elesa the same information a week before nut he had no idea that it helped develop traits in your partner though. That was interesting, or it would be if he didn't think of his mum and dad like that when the information re-entered his conscious thoughts. He could see why that would possibly be a guaranteed way of producing offspring who had Aura, if both parents had a particular trait, then the child is highly likely to have it too. It was simple genetics.

Leaving the hotel Ash paid the bill without even looking at it and walked with his mum to the SS Anne. His mother had the tickets and flashed them to the attendant and walked onto the boat. Following the signs Ash and Delia headed to where their rooms were. Their rooms were next door to each other, only there was no middle door that opened into either room like there was in the hotel. After dropping their bags off and unpacking Ash and his mum decided to walk onto the front deck, passing people heading to their rooms. Walking out on the deck made Ash and Delia smile when the sea breeze hit them. As they leaned over the barrier to look at the people on the streets, they turned to each other and laughed, excitement clearly visible on each other's faces. Their holiday had officially started.

Chapter 17: Chapter 17- Cruising

Chapter Text

Chapter 17- Cruising for a bruising

That night as the ship set off everyone had gathered in the main hall for a meal. Apparently, it was a tradition that on the first night the captain spoke to everyone, and they had a community meal to show that regardless of the price of the individual ticket, they were all on the same boat. It was a nice gesture Ash thought as they walked back to their rooms. Getting back to Ash's room he sat down and waited for his mum to get back from her room. Walking in Ash saw she had a red folder which she placed on the table. Ash took out his notes from his bag too and walked over to the table his mum had sat down at.

"First off, I want to know where you received all the information you did on your father." Delia said unhappily "I have not received half of the information you sent to me in that email."

"I received it from Bruno just after the Power Plant fiasco" Ash replied "he followed me into Rock Tunnel to get the actual version of events and not the one I told the police. When I told him he asked me to keep what he said between us but if he thought I was going to keep vital information about dad from you he's an idiot. And Agatha also mentioned a few things about Fuji that confirmed some kind of cover up is going on."

"So, you think the Elite Four are involved behind Red's disappearance?" Delia asked frowning.

"No, but I believe they know what's happened and are part of a cover up. Whether it's voluntarily though is another matter" Ash replied.

"Meaning?" Delia asked.

"Meaning" Ash said slowly "that Bruno and Agatha were conveniently awful at keeping confidential information from me. They've known about what happened for eleven years now and haven't mentioned anything to you. You can't tell me they couldn't leave an anonymous note to give you peace of mind at least. No, I think they deliberately waited until they could meet me in person, in their official capacity to tell me bits of information so as not to appear suspicious to Lance, Blue or Goodshow."

"You think Blue knows something?" Delia asked concerned.

"Oh yes" Ash said wryly "he's the champion, he took the position back after dad died. You told me he was his best friend so answer me this. If you finally gained the authority to be able to look into your best friends disappearance, don't you think you would do? And if your best friends 'murder' investigation turned up nothing, wouldn't you investigate yourself to make sure? Blue took that position extremely quickly after dad disappeared, the investigation lasted four days mum. And he was officially declared dead after seven. A week later Charles Goodshow made the entire thing top secret and need to know with only the Elite Four, the Champion and Charles having access to his file."

"I see what you mean" Delia said angrily "and he looked me in the face for years afterwards telling me how sorry he was. So, you believe they are trying to let you know what they know, without actually telling you what they know because they're being handcuffed by Goodshow?"

"Can you see why I'm angry?" Ash said "someone high up knows something. Bruno and Agatha have told me as much and I think they're leaving me breadcrumbs to follow."

"To where though?" Delia asked.

"I believe it leads directly to Team Rocket and Goodshow" Ash said "Agatha gave me some information in Lavender Town after I had already concluded rightly about Fuji. She despises the man, with a passion. He was lead scientist on a project Team Rocket were behind and financing, performing experiments to try and clone a Mew on Cinnabar. Does that sound familiar?"

"Isn't that what Arceus told you?" Delia asked perplexed "she told you they hadn't succeeded yet but thought they would this year."

"She lied" Ash replied "Or at least played fast and loose with the truth. I believe they succeeded with their experiments, and I think Dad found out about it. The lab was destroyed by the volcano, or so the official report says. Agatha however told me the lab was destroyed after the experiments were discovered so there was ample opportunity to gather evidence. She personally saw the results of the experiments and when Fuji was acquitted due to a lack of evidence she and Bruno handed in their resignation. It was Lorelei that convinced them to stay on to try and change the system from within.

Now dad was a key witness to Fuji's trial as he too saw what they had tried to create. Blaine was Fujis right hand man and was part of every experiment they did. He gave evidence against Fuji in the trial, but it was dismissed because of the volcano erupting and burying everything so there was no proof behind what Blaine said. Dad was due to take the stand a few days later but Blue attacked the leader of Team Rocket the day before and dad paid the price saving his life. They used his disappearance to quash anything related to the incident and Fuji got off and moved to Lavender Town while Blaine stayed on Cinnabar in a ruined gym.

Now, the day Pikachu and I left Mt Moon we felt a very strong presence inside Cerulean Cave. it was so powerful we could feel it from outside but it never affected my mind though. We went back the day after to see if we could feel it again and it had gone. When we arrived in Lavender, we felt the same kind of presence over the town. It conveniently left the next day leaving Spiritomb to take the fall. Pikachu and I have met Ho-oH, we have also met Zapdos. We have felt, first-hand the enormity of their power and this thing, whatever it was, dwarfed them mum. By a considerable amount."

"Hence why you believe one of their experiments was successful" Delia said with recognition dawning on her face pulling out an article Ash had sent her "And from this newspaper page on Fuji going missing, you believe they're related."

"I do" Ash said "he conveniently goes missing the day Rocket announce their resurgence in Viridian City, three weeks later I stop them in Mt Moon. Then I stop them again in Power Plant, then the presence is over Lavender Town. He's the only one apart from Blaine who knows for certain if an experiment was successful. I've seen his trial transcript and he answered every question with 'no comment'. He knows something and I suspect he's controlling the presence or vice versa. I also suspect Uncle Giovanni is involved too in some way. The fact that the body of my father was never found in his gym is extremely suspicious mum."

"Gio?" Delia asked bewildered "how? Why?"

"Oh, come on Mum" Ash said shaking his head "Think. You know what kind of man he is, have you ever heard of anyone getting one over on him? For him to say he had no idea why the leader of Team Rocket was using his gym that day is complete crap. He told me himself when I met him after the Viridian incident that 'people don't lose a wallet in his city without him knowing about it'. Not only that but you must be able to feel something is off every time you're around him. I've been able to feel that from the moment I first met him. Pikachu said exactly the same thing when he first met him too. He knows something that he's not sharing, and he was very quick to tell us he was in Johto the day of the incident at his gym. And his wording mum. No known psychic Pokémon could teleport to and from Johto to Kanto. Known mum. The experiments were on a Mew fossil which means the subjects they created had to have psychic powers, and given Mew is incredibly powerful so would any offspring they had. If Mew could make that jump from Johto to Kanto, then it stands to reason so could whatever they created. Gio might not be involved with Team Rocket, but he's definitely involved with the cover up. I just don't know what the connection is between them."

After a few minutes silence Delia began with her conclusions "I have reservations about your point about Gio. But I can see why you'd think that. I don't believe it, yet. But I'm willing to go along with your premise until we find out for definite. Until then though we don't talk about him unless were actually together face-to-face. Looking over the information you sent me though has left me with more questions than answers. What was your father involved in? Who knows what actually happened that day and why have they not informed me given I'm his wife? What happened on Cinnabar? Why are the Elite Four covering this up? How does Lance and Blue fit into this? What are they hiding? Was something created and then hidden? Why did Arceus tell you that they had yet to create something, but evidence exists to say otherwise. What's the true purpose of your task? As you can see Ash, from the moment you sent me this all these thoughts have been running through my brain." Sighing she continued "I believe that your dad was deliberately assigned to the Cinnabar case. Why, I don't know. Red told me that it was part of his job as a G-Man operative but if that was the case then why were Agatha and Bruno involved? They're certainly not G-Men.

I remember your father's demeanour for the weeks preceding his disappearance, Ash. Usually he was cheerful and happy, at that time though he was very worried about something. Something he was not allowed to talk to me about. It's one of the few times we argued actually. Usually, he'd tell me everything he could so we could talk things through. You don't keep secrets from your loved ones, especially your wife or husband and it's lucky I knew Aura Guardians married for life or I'd have suspected an affair of some sort. Now though, it seems it is because of whatever happened at Cinnabar. He saw something or found out something that seriously disturbed him, Ash. I just wish I knew what."

"Well, I suppose this is the best time to tell you" Ash said "when I reach Cinnabar, I'm going exploring for this supposed destroyed lab. I don't think it's as hidden as people are saying. I know there will be some kind of clue hidden there and I think the volcano was a fortuitous thing to happen as it wasn't due to go off for at least another century. It's why I'm convinced something survived and its power couldn't be contained, went off on a rampage and the destruction triggered the volcano explosion."

"I can't say I'm happy with that Ash" Delia said frowning "but I want to know what happened just as much as you do. So as long as you inform me the day you go looking and the minute you get back to the Pokémon Centre then I'll accept it."

"I plan on challenging the gym in the afternoon, reviving the fossil in the evening, exploring that night and then leaving as soon as I can the next day" Ash said, "I have no doubt Blaine is still involved in this and will warn whoever he can that I'm on the island."

"Just be safe Ash" Delia said clearly worried "this was big enough to create a cover up by the Pokémon League itself. If they did this to your dad, then you better believe they'll do it to you too."

"So, what's your conclusion to all this mum?" Ash asked.

"That your father is still alive" Delia said grimly "and he's being deliberately kept from us by someone. I used to joke that your father adored you more than he loved me so there is no way that he would stay away from us if he had a choice in the matter. No, he's still out there somewhere, someone knows where and when I find out whoever is behind this Ash..." she said trailing off.

"I'll help you" Ash said nodding.

The next few days passed by fairly quickly. Ash and his mum didn't really travel around the ship much with each other. After having breakfast and agreeing to meet up for tea they both did their own thing and explored. In this way it meant they had things to talk about when they met up. A day before they were to get off at Porta Vista the captain announced that they had a surprise for everyone on board. The owners of the company that produced the SS ships had brokered a deal with the owners of a theme park Pokémon Land. Everyone on board would be able to enter for free and go on any attractions they wanted, also free of charge. All they needed to do was flash their ticket at the entrance. The majority of people aboard the SS Anne were very excited about this as Pokémon Land was world famous for having giant mechanical Pokémon that took them to various places in the park.

Unfortunately for Ash Delia had come down with sunstroke the night before so she told Ash to go enjoy himself while she recovered. Taking his place in line for entrance at the park, Ash felt uneasy but couldn't pinpoint why, placing his ticket back into a smaller backpack he had on him he entered. Something was very wrong with this park he decided after a few hours of exploring. It was pure luck that he passed by a hidden fence and saw the area where the Giant Pokémon were housed at night. Standing at the entrance though were two guards in very distinct uniforms. The giant red R on the front was a dead giveaway. Crouching in a nearby bush Ash listened in on their conversations.

"The boss will love this, all those rich folks aboard the SS Anne haven't a clue what we're really doing here."

"Quiet you fool" the second guard said sharply, "before someone hears you."

"Who's gonna hear us here?" the first guard replied laughing "there's no cameras here and no people can go beyond a certain point in the park."

"It doesn't matter. If anyone hears you, we'll both be in trouble. I'm up for promotion next month and I want to be part of the big project coming up. So, I won't have you messing that up for me."

"Well, well Pi" Ash said quietly "I knew something was off about this park Pi. It's owned by Team Rocket. We need to do something about this."

"But what?" Pikachu asked.

Looking around Ash noticed a tower in the distance "I'd wager that if we sabotaged that towers antenna, all the mechanical Pokémon would fail. This could cost Team Rocket millions of Pokédollars."

"That could cause the people in this park serious injuries though." Pikachu said.

"Collateral damage Pi" Ash said shrugging his shoulders. "The flying machines aren't high enough in the air to cause significant injuries, and as for the ones on the ground they'll simply shut down. No injuries for that issue. When everything stops, we slip out and re-join the masses of people who will leave."

"I'm not happy about the collateral damage Ash" Pikachu said frowning "but sadly I don't have a better idea. So, all we need to do is get past all these guards."

"We'll take these two out first" Ash said "we'll lure them behind that hangar" he said pointing to the area they were guarding. Its entire right-hand side was covered in grass and bushes, so Ash carefully picked his way through the bushes and grass until they were hidden near the back of the hanger's side. "you'll need to be bait again Pi, lure them here. As they said there's no cameras so if we can make it quick then all the better"

Grumbling Pikachu waited for Ash to get into position to ambush them. When he received the signal Pikachu sprang out and launched himself at the very surprised guards. Springing off the first guard he leapt to the second guard and scratched his face. His job done Pikachu ran around the side of the hangar. Hearing outraged yells Pikachu turned around and saw them both advancing angrily. Rushing off to Ash's spot he heard them both charging behind him shouting and swearing. Rushing past Ash, he turned around so quickly and smashed his metallic tail into the first guards face that the second one didn't have time to react to Ash leaping out and decking him. Stashing them in the bushes Ash pulled a uniform off the second guard.

"We may need to dress up Pi" Ash said shrugging and pulling on the top over his hoodie. Ash cautiously looked around the corner of the hangar to see if anything had been noticed. Thankfully nothing had so he walked out in front of the hangar and was about to walk to the tower when Pi tapped him on the shoulder and pointed inside the hangar. Gaping Ash walked in to see a massive unfinished Dragonite being constructed. Looking around he didn't see anyone in the hangar, so he walked up to it. Seeing steps leading up the Dragonites back he noticed a door on its head.

"This has given me an idea Pi" Ash said "if I can re-programme this Dragonite I can get it to destroy the tower. That way we can just leave the way we came, and all the guards can say was that a Pikachu knocked them out."

"That's if the Dragonite is functional Ash" Pikachu said, "it's in here, out of the way for a reason after all."

"That's very true" Ash replied grimly as they began the climb "all we can do is hope for the best. Failing this we have to try and get into the tower which is significantly more dangerous." Opening the door Ash was amazed to find he was behind one of the Dragonites eyes. Looking at the control panel Ash whistled "wow, this a serious piece of machinery Pi. Luckily, I always take my mini toolkit in my bag. Keep an eye out will you while I look at its wiring."

The next fifteen minutes passed by very slowly for Pikachu who was sat on the flat edge of the control desk looking out of the window. Every now and then he would hear Ash muttering about wires and little yelps as Ash electrocuted himself. Shaking his head Pikachu muttered about idiot trainers. "I heard that Pi" came the muffled voice of Ash who was shoulders deep inside the control box underneath the panel. "Aha, that's what I'm looking for. OK Pi. I'm going to connect a few wires here, let me know when the panel lights up." Several minutes and a lot of shocks later Ash had successfully connected the wiring up. Standing up Ash looked at the panel. "Now, it seems that they fitted these mechanical Pokémon with 'realistic' versions of their signature attacks that are connected to their power box. This one has Hyper Beam. I've stopped questioning our luck Pikachu. So, what I'm going to do is walk this out of the hangar, face the tower and use its move while switching on the walk button. I've wired it in such a way that it won't stop using the move or walking until it's out of battery life, whichever one comes first. As soon as I press the attack button, we need to get the hell out of here Pikachu as it only takes about a minute to charge the move."

At that Ash switched on the Dragonite and began to steer it using its control panel until it was out of its hangar, turning it round was very difficult as its tail got in the way of the hangars edge. Thankfully after a few minutes manoeuvring he had managed it. The tower was about two-hundred feet away from them, hopefully it walked straight into it. "Are you ready Pi? As soon as you feel close enough to the ground when we descend that ladder jump and head for the bushes we first arrived in. I'll dump the rocket t-shirt and we head back to the main park. If we're stopped, we just claim we got lost. Ok, here goes." Pressing the button, it began a countdown on the panel and Ash pressed the joystick forward where it stayed. Feeling it move Ash and Pikachu raced for the door and descended as quickly as they could. Just as they reached the ground Ash felt the pressure in the air around them heating up, running as fast as he could he got to the bushes just in time to see it launch a Hyper Beam at the tower blowing the top off it.

The explosion was so loud it blew Ash and Pikachu back several yards deeper into the bushes. Standing up Ash took off the shirt and ran to where they first entered the off limits zone. Entering the park proper Ash stood and watched the pandemonium of the crowd. People were fleeing everywhere from rampaging mechanical Pokémon that were attacking each other. Not even bothering to watch for much longer Ash and Pikachu quickly made their way to the exit of the park where a crush had formed of people wanting to escape. Being jostled and stamped on was not fun for Ash but eventually he managed to escape the park and made his way back to the ship. Showing the clearly stressed guard his ticket Ash made his way to his room where he collapsed onto his bed in relief. They had made it.

Hearing a knock on his door Ash opened it to find his mum looking very worried. As soon as she saw him, she grabbed him into a big hug and holding his face, she placed her forehead on his and started to breathe more evenly.

"Mum, apart from the stampede I'm ok. I wasn't near anything when whatever happened, happened." Ash said.

Giving him a look, she asked, "what did happen Ash?"

Leading her to his bed he sat her down and said "Pi and I were just about to sit down for something to eat when an explosion happened from somewhere on the island. The mechanical Pokémon that was ferrying people around all stopped at the same time. It's lucky that the mechanical birds were all on the ground or they'd have crashed and around half a minute later they started up again only this time they attacked each other. They all but destroyed the park by the time I had escaped. Whoever owns it has probably lost millions and it wouldn't surprise me if they were sued either for the damage caused to people. There must have been thousands of people tying to escape and many were crushed in the stampede to get out as their exits were non-existent." Looking relieved Delia stood up and gave Ash another hug before nodding and leaving.

The ship was delayed leaving Pokémon Land for a further two days to ensure everyone on board received the medical care they needed. Ash, Pikachu and Delia helped out as much as they could giving people basic first aid. It had become a national story too; Ash and Pikachu had watched the news over the next few days to determine what the outcome of their little sabotaging episode had cost Team Rocket. The death toll was around ten so far, the explosion had killed seven staff workers at their operations room and a further three trying to stop the Dragonite from demolishing every building in that area. The 'owner' of Pokémon Land had been suspiciously absent on the news, instead a spokesman had been on expressing their grief at the loss of lives and that a full investigation would be carried out. The cost though boggled Ash's mind when he thought about it. Apparently, each mechanical Pokémon cost twenty million Pokédollars to make each. And there was around nine of them. Then there were all the rides that had been destroyed, all the shops and the staff area the Dragonite had levelled. All told it would cost roughly one billion Pokédollars to get it back to how it was.

"A billion dollars of damage" Ash exclaimed watching the news from his room "that's not including all the people that are going to sue."

"That's a lot of money Ash" Pikachu said, "do you think your mum knows?"

"Yes" Ash said simply as he moved onto their balcony and sat down at the table there "I've never been able to lie to her. I have a 'tell' but I have no idea what."

"Are you going to tell her?" Pikachu asked.

"Yes" Ash said looking at him "she's my mum. I owe her lots. Especially as she's gone above and beyond for me for my entire life. I know a lot of people would say parents are supposed to, but she's done so much for me. She doesn't deserve lies from her only son."

"It's your eyes" a voice said from the doorway making him jump. It was his mum holding their dinner. Placing it on the table she turned to him, sat down and said "I'm not stupid Ash. You've never been able to look me in the eyes properly when you're lying. So, before we talk about the punishment, we will talk about what really happened."

Sighing Ash relayed what happened, how they got lost only to find themselves at a secret Team Rocket base, his decision to harm them financially and what he did to make sure it happened. The rest had been the truth from the start. Having a drink Ash waited nervously for his mum to talk.

"You promised me Ash that you wouldn't needlessly put yourself in a situation that you didn't need to be in. This is exactly one of those times where you've ignored your promise to me. The issue I'm having here is that it was Team Rocket who was harmed which I'm all for."

"There was only the two guard's mum. And the Dragonite. Apart from that we were safe" Ash said which earned him a severe look.

"You've literally just told me you had plans to infiltrate their tower, meaning you would have had to have taken out more than the two guards you did. Your luck is proving to be your saviour at the moment Ash." She said sternly "quit while you're ahead. Now the issue I'm having is that I have no actual way of punishing you and enforcing it. You are no longer a child Ash. Your actions could have had severe consequences for you if you'd been caught. You make me so mad at times you know."

"I'm sorry Mum" Ash said looking out to sea "I'm sorry to have disappointed you by lying to you."

"Good" Delia said looking at him "at least you acknowledge you have done something wrong. That's a good start. There's not only me you need to apologise too though. You ignored Pikachu and his warnings" After a few minutes of silence Delia sighed, shook her head, stood up and walked out leaving a very sullen Ash to think about what he'd done. "I'm sorry Pi" Ash said quietly, "I apologise for not listening to you."

"It's ok Ash" Pikachu said "I know we needed to take out Team Rocket. But this was a theme park, not a lab creating Pokémon and it could have cost your mum everything. The problem is Ash is that you're very one track minded. And while we had that conversation in Rock Tunnel about cowardice, I stand by what I said that day by the way, this was not one of the times we needed to act. Out of everything they have done, this was likely the most harmless. You're just lucky this has cost Team Rocket and not you."

Leaving Ash to think about things Pikachu decided to relax in Ash's room. That evening Ash apologised to them both again at Tea. Delia told Ash to put it behind them, but Ash knew better. She was still mad at him. The next day they pulled into Porta Vista and disembarked. SS Anne would be here for a few days yet, so they had plenty of chances to explore. Ash found a little restaurant on the beach where Delia, Pikachu and Ash had dinner. Looking round Ash noticed it was pretty deserted so calling over to the owner he asked why.

Walking over to the bar he asked for the bill. As he placed it down for Ash to scan his Pokégear a crash was heard just behind him. Immediately Moe looked up to see Delia rubbing her behind and a splintered chair at her side. Rushing over to her he fretted about if she was injured or not. Finally, Ash walked back over to see what the commotion was.

"It's ok Moe" Delia said laughing "I have a very big bum. I'm used to this, it's a good job I have all this extra padding."

"If you're sure Miss" Moe said still looking concerned.

"Are you ok mum?" Ash asked, "are we ready to go?"

"Yes" Delia said picking up her bag. "I'm afraid the chair wasn't big enough for my backside."

"Another chair has suffered, eh? It's not your fault Moe, mum had to alter the layout of the kitchen years ago because she kept banging her hips on the counter corners. She's always cursing her body" Ash said cheekily earning a playful glare off her "I added the cost of the chair into the tip Moe. I hope it was enough and I hope you have a fabulous retirement. Come on mum, we have the contest on the beach to go to."

Leaving them Moe went back to his bar and looked at the receipt. He nearly collapsed in shock and had to steady himself on the bar. The tip was more than enough to cover the chair, the cost of his bar and his retirement fund. Looking up went to say something and found Ash and Delia had gone. Shaking his head at the generosity of some people he called up his solicitor to put the bar up for sale. He had an ocean to voyage.

"That was a very nice thing you did there Ash" Delia said smiling at him.

"He needed it more than I did mum." Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I know I can't and shouldn't help everyone, but I just know that Brutella was sabotaging him deliberately to get his bar from him. I hope he fleeces her for every dollar she has."

The rest of the day flew by. The next day however Ash knew something was wrong. When his mum walked into his room and found him and Pikachu looking intently at the ocean, she asked what was wrong.

"Something bad has happened mum." Ash said turning to face her "during the early hours this morning I felt a wave of anguish and anger hit me. Something has happened in Porta Vista mum. The Pokémon are not happy and I have this need to find it and fix it, whatever it is."

"I'm not going to like this, am I Ash?" Delia said sighing "and after the other day I am very reluctant to let you leave my sight. However, your father often felt the same from time to time. Go do what you need to do but make sure you listen to your Pokémon if they tell you a situation is too dangerous."

"Thanks mum" Ash said relieved "it genuinely hurts whenever it hits me. Something is very sad and angry out there. I need to fix it, whatever it is. I promise I'll keep you updated, I'll ring your pokegear when I find out what's happening" picking up his bag he made sure it was stocked and Pikachu jumped on his shoulder as he left. Shaking her head Delia decided today would be a great day to stay on the ship and sunbathe on the deck.

Ash meanwhile made his way into the city of Porta Vista. Walking past a huge hotel he noticed several trainers exiting it talking very loudly

"One million Pokédollars for getting rid of the Tentacool?"

"Is she serious?"

"Well, we can't turn that down. I'll race you!"

"Hey you cheat. Those million Pokédollars are mine!"

Wondering what they meant Ash halted when he reached the entrance hall. There on a flyer was the legend "want to make one million Pokédollars? Ask for Nastina inside"

"I think we better check this out Pikachu" Ash said walking inside the hotel. Walking to reception he asked about the flyer.

"Yes" the receptionist said "Nastina is offering One million Pokédollars to the trainer or trainers that get rid of the Tentacool interfering with the construction of her new theme park out on the reef."

"Aren't those reefs and its inhabitants protected?" Ash asked confused.

"Well, clearly not" the receptionist said uncaring "Nastina must have the necessary permits required or she wouldn't be building on them."

Nodding Ash left and made his way down to the harbour. It was very easy to see what was going on as the entire beachfront was covered in ink, several trainers were nursing their injured Pokémon and there was several unconscious Tentacool floating on the waves. Stopping a trainer who was rushing off he asked, "what's going on?"

"Those Tentacool man" the guy drawled "they're everywhere man. As soon as we get rid of one another replaces it man. Ain't no way the million dollars is worth this man" leaving the man Ash walked further down the beach until he came to the reefs. Sure enough out on the reef were flotillas and cranes that were beginning the construction of what looked like a building but were being halted by Tentacool swarming them. Something didn't sit right with Ash here so getting out his pokegear he called Sam.

"Hey professor" Ash said, "Are you on your computer? If so, can you just check something for me?"

"Erm, give me a moment, I'm just with Blue. I'm going to put you on speaker phone Ash is that ok?" Sam said.

"Yeah sure" Ash said.

"Go on Ash" Sam said, "what do you need?"

"Well, we've arrived in Porta Vista" Ash started "Early hours this morning I was woken up by a strange feeling that kept me awake. I've just arrived at the actual port now and was told by several trainers that a woman called Nastina has offered a One-Million-Pokédollar reward to any trainers who can eliminate the Tentacool from the reefs using any means necessary so she can build a theme park on them. Now I've just arrived at the beach to find Pokémon bodies littered on it, with several trainers looking as though they've been battered. And I can see the reefs from where I am. There's a floating dock been built and several cranes on it. Aren't those reefs protected?"

"Yes, they are" Blues voice said "I have no idea who has authorised that Ash but whoever did is going to face severe consequences for doing so. I'll contact Lance now, hopefully we can get some of the G-Men to disperse those idiot trainers and calm the situation down."

"No worries" Ash said "I thought they were-HOLY SHIT"

"WHAT?" Sam asked urgently.

"I don't know how to put this" Ash squeaked out "But there's a fifty-foot Tentacruel headed directly for Porta Vista."

There was utter silence from the other end.

"Er, can you repeat that Ash" Blue asked.

"There is a fifty-foot tall Tentacruel, just risen out of the reefs." Ash said looking on in disbelief "It has destroyed the flotilla and makeshift dock and is now advancing on Porta Vista with an army of Tentacool behind it. We're going to need as many people as you can get Blue as soon as you can. This Port won't survive this otherwise. I'll do what I can to help out but I'm only one person."

"Blue just teleported to the league Ash. He's going to bring the entire G-Men. Just do what you can" Sam said, "and keep me updated as much as you can, when you can."

"Will do professor." Ash said sprinting back to the city. Passing by several people he saw the green roof of the police station just ahead of him. Jenny would have to be warned. Rushing inside he saw it was packed with trainers and injured Pokémon covered in ink shouting at the officers behind the counter. Having no time, he shouted "Everyone shut up. My name is Ash Ketchum. Everyone needs to leave right now, the Tentacool have risen out of the water and are advancing on the city. There is also a giant Tentacruel leading them. We all need to leave."

"What the hell are you talking about boy" a man sneered "those little shits don't scare me."

"Enough" Ash said letting his aura leak out causing the man to shrink back at Ash's glowing eyes. "because of you and every other bloody idiot in here who attacked those Tentacool the entire city is now in danger" turning to a still shell-shocked Jenny he continued "I have just been onto the phone with Champion Blue, he's gone to the league to get help but rounding everyone of the G-Men up could take up to half an hour. We need to organise barriers and trainers to help us protect the city until they arrive. I have a feeling the entire Elite Four will be coming to help. I noticed a choke point a few streets away, I think it was called Albion Street. If we can lure them there, then hopefully the casualties will be kept at a minimum."

Quickly drawing herself up she addressed the silent crowd "every single one of you is going to help rectify your own stupidity. You will go to Albion Street; you will help out with the barriers, and you will defend the port you have nearly destroyed. Ash, where will you be?"

"I will try and lure the Tentacruel away from the city. Hopefully you can cope with the Tentacool until help arrives. When you deal with them force them back to the harbour. Hopefully I should still be alive when help comes." Ash said before rushing out. Running to the Harbour he noticed the Tentacruel had not left yet. The Tentacool had advanced though and were making their way through the streets causing as much chaos as possible. Calling everyone out he quickly told them of the situation. "Wartortle, I'll likely need you to stay with me and Pikachu in case we get blasted out to sea. Charmeleon and Bulbasaur, go find Officer Jenny. She's arranging a rear-guard until the Elite Four arrive. I know you're not happy with that but they need every Pokémon they can get to aid them. Hopefully Pikachu, Wartortle and I can take out the Tentacruel. Without a leader they should crumble quickly. I'll see you guys on the other side."

Watching them leave gave Ash a big pang of worry and guilt. Pushing that down he advanced on the Tentacruel and forcing out his Aura he cast the biggest Aura Sphere he could which smashed into the Tentacruel staggering it. "Guys, we don't hold back. Tentacruel" Ash shouted "I challenge you to a battle" Pikachu launched a Thunderbolt while Wartortle used an Ice Beam causing it to roar in pain and charge after them at a speed that Ash couldn't believe leaving the Tentacool to carry on with their destruction. His plan had seemingly worked to separate them. Running down the beach Ash turned and halted. They were now a good 100 yards away for their starting point, so it was enough. Ash was really lucky that he had fantastic reflexes as he leapt out of the way of a massive Hydro Pump and his Pokémon attacked.

Diving out of the way of all the tentacles was the biggest challenge they faced. While the Tentacruel's attacks would do severe damage should they hit the downside was that it took a long time to charge them, so they had advance warning and was able to chip away bit by bit. Ash had no idea how long had passed but his Pokémon were quickly getting tired. The Tentacruel's anger was masking its pain, as one side was clearly burned from all the electric attacks. This needed to end soon Ash thought but ten minutes later it was still no closer to being over and his team were on their last legs. The Tentacruel had still not had enough, despite losing sight from one eye from an attack, several tentacles were burned beyond recovery and its entire right side had scorch marks. Pikachu was sat on his haunches panting exhausted and Wartortle had just fainted from a huge Ice Beam clipping his side and sending him careening into a building. Recalling him he hoped he would be ok.

"Pi" Ash said quietly kneeling next to him keeping a wary eye on the Tentacruel "I have an idea, but it's not going to be fun. And one millimetre misstep could end it for either of us."

"We've come this far Ash" Pikachu said standing up "what's your plan?"

"We need to wait for it to use Hydro Pump again." Ash said "when it does, I will charge into it using my aura as a shield while you run along it and use the biggest Thunder attack you can directly into its attack. It should travel straight to its source and do serious damage to its insides. It's all we have left Pi" Ash finished with tears falling down his face.

"If we should die Ash, then we die together" Pikachu said sparking his cheeks "it's been a pleasure knowing you, Ash."

"You too buddy" Ash said standing up and squaring his shoulders while Pikachu climbed onto them. "don't attack until it uses Hydro Pump. We can see what attack it's going to be when it charges up. Dodge until then."

With a roar Ash threw Aura Spheres at the Tentacruel making it roar in pain and fling its tentacles out. For the next few minutes, it was dodging practice waiting for the right time to attack but finally Ash spotted it charging the correct attack. "Now Pikachu, wait for me to charge, you finish this!"

Landing at the Harbour Lance quickly made his way over to the reefs. A pop at the side of him signified Blue had teleported by his side with the other three members of the Elite Four. Looking at the devastation Lance finally fixated on the cause. There on the beach a young boy began to glow blue, while a Pikachu glowed yellow. They watched in horror as they charged directly at the massive Tentacruel. Hearing their words set off a chain reaction of fear.

"No!" Blue shouted sprinting onto the beach but was thrown back from the explosion that followed. The world lit up a bright yellow and the everything stopped for them. The giant Tentacruel was fried from the inside and toppled over where it didn't move. On the beach however was a young boy whose body slowly stopped glowing blue, holding the hand of a Pikachu, both of them unmoving.

Chapter 18: Chapter 18- Crisis?

Chapter Text

Chapter 18- Are we having a crisis?

For the people on board the SS Anne it was just another day in paradise. They got up when they wanted, had a fabulous breakfast and went about their day as normal. For Delia though it was anything but normal. When Ash had gone off to do whatever he felt he had to do Delia decided that it was a day for staying on the ship and waiting for Ash to return. That all changed though around lunch time when over the ships tannoy came the voice of the captain.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is the captain speaking. We urge everyone to return to your rooms immediately as we may have to move away from the harbour at a moment's notice due to there being reports of an attack on Porta Vista. We have raised the gang walk so if any of you have family members in Porta Vista, we apologise but my priority is the welfare of those still on board. We're awaiting updates from the Pokémon League and police, and we will keep you informed as and when we can. Thank you."

Immediately Delia packed up her things from the sun lounger she was on the front deck and raced to her room. Packing everything she went to Ash's room and did the same as she knew Ash was involved somehow. Finishing packing, she rang Sam, but his assistant picked up.

"Hello Delia, I'm afraid Professor Oak has just left on his Dragonite, there's an emergency somewhere and he hasn't left a message of where he's going."

"He'll be coming here" Delia said, "thank you." And she hung up.

Walking over to the TV she turned it on, put the news on and immediately Porta Vista came on the screen. Listening to the reporters increased her concern as apparently every Tentacool and marine Pokémon had staged an attack on Porta Vista and the people and the Tentacool were fighting pitched battles in the streets. A breaking news story saw the scene switched again, this time from the view of a helicopter. It showed hundreds of people and Pokémon battling until the camera swung around and focused on the beach. The helicopter headed towards it to see what was happening and had to swerve away from an incredibly huge Pokémon attack that would have ended the lives of those on board immediately. Staying as far away as they safely could the camera zoomed into whatever was happening.

"Whoa, that was close" the reporter said "we've had word that just outside the pitched battles of the city a lone trainer has diverted a giant Tentacruel from destroying the city and is currently fighting it on the beach. From our view up here, it looks like a young man with a Pikachu. Oh look, the Elite Four and Champion have arrived onto the scene. OH MY GOD" she screamed as the world turned bright yellow and the camera feed shut off and became static.

Delia immediately was on her feet and rushed towards the front deck, passing staff members who were calling her back. Rushing out of the door onto the open deck Delia made her decision and launched herself over the front, ignoring the screams from the people who had chased her. Diving into the water Delia struggled to surface in the choppy water but finally, she surfaced and swam to shore. She didn't care how long it would take but she managed to get onto the beach. Running along it, she knew she was at least ten minutes away from where Ash was fighting, spurred on by making sure her son was ok she finally made it near the scene. Absolutely exhausted she ran down the steps and headed towards where a big group of people were congregated. Screaming Ash's name, they turned around. Sam immediately spotted a very wet, clearly exhausted Delia and rushed to her where he grabbed her into a hug. After around twenty seconds of struggling and not caring about whatever Sam was saying she stopped and just looked at Sam. Focusing on his words her brain finally engaged.

"Where is my son, why are you stopping me from seeing my son?" Delia demanded.

"He's not here anymore Delia" Sam said "Blue teleported him immediately to the nearest hospital. From what Blue and the other Elite Four members said, Ash charged into the Tentacruel deliberately to give Pikachu an opening to take it down. Delia, it doesn't look good. They've both been taken to the nearest hospital. I'll have Blue take you there as soon as he returns."

"No" Delia said sliding to her knees "why my Ash?"

This time it was Lance who answered "from the information we have gathered from various sources Ash rushed into the police station after hanging up from Sam and informed the police that the city was about to be attacked. He ordered his Charmeleon and Ivysaur to help Jenny out while he, his Wartortle and his Pikachu took on the Tentacruel before it could escape the harbour. The three of them took down the Tentacruel just as we arrived. I know this won't make a difference to you Delia, but Ash saved so many lives today by doing what he did."

At that moment Blue arrived back on the scene and noticed Delia was there. Running over to them he said "Ash is currently in the examination theatre having every examination he can have; we fear the attack may have done some internal damage. His Pikachu is awake but extremely exhausted. It won't be doing any battles for at least two months the state it is in. His other Pokémon are fine, just exhausted."

"I don't care about that right now; I want to see my son" Delia demanded standing up.

"You won't be going anywhere looking like that Delia" Sam said firmly "We're not arguing about this Delia. You're sopping wet and you look like you've just ran a marathon. Hand Blue your room key and he'll get you a change of clothes."

"Mine and Ash's bags are packed and are on my bed. I was waiting for news from him" Delia said causing Lance to frown. Blue teleported away and five minutes later came back with their bags. Sam and Blue teleported them all to the hospital and after half an hour of waiting were admitted into Ash's room in the ICU. Seeing Ash hooked up to a ventilator did nothing to ease Delia's mind but the gentle rise and fall of his stomach was all she needed to tell her brain that her son was still alive. After they all had eaten, they moved to a side room so they could talk and not disturb Ash or the doctors who came in to check on him.

"I don't want to sound accusatory Delia, but from your wording before it sounds like you knew this was going to happen" Lance said to her with a questioning look.

"Ash warned me this morning that he felt something significant had happened during the night." She replied looking him in the face as if daring him to accuse her "He didn't know what, but he had a 'feeling' and that's usually enough for me to know something is wrong. He's never been wrong about the feelings before. So, we knew something was going to happen, we had no idea it would be this though. How did that Tentacruel get that size? Is it an Ancient?"

"No" Sam said immediately "it was not an ancient."

"Sam is right" Lance said "but we found two people hugging the pier for dear life who told us the whole story. Apparently they work for Team Rocket. They got it into their heads to poison all the Tentacool for the million poke-dollar reward. So, they concocted a mish mash of chemicals and dumped it in the reef. Needless to say, it didn't work as intended and the lead Tentacruel grew to an enormous size. Its size was very beneficial to their cause, and they attacked the city. The woman behind it all, Nastina is currently in custody for allegedly forging documents and blackmailing the cites governors into signing off a portion of the reefs to her so she could build her theme park. Ash's warning came just in time and the police were able to block off portions of the city so they could herd them down one street."

"There are a lot of casualties out there, all because of one woman's temerity to build over a protected area" Sam said shaking his head "The Tentacool aren't at fault for this. That reef is their home and the protected it the only way they knew how."

"That doesn't help my Ash though, does it?" Delia said icily "One woman decides to blackmail people, they go along with it, and it culminates with my son facing off against a fifty-foot Tentacruel. I'm sick and tired of him having to save others by putting his life on the line by fighting Team Rocket. First Viridian, then Mt Moon, then Power Plant, then Lavender and now this?"

"What do you mean?" Sam asked confused looking around the table "Team Rocket are back?"

"Delia shouldn't have told you that dad" Blue said, "by rights we could have her arrested for it."

"Bullshit" Delia said surprising them all "the fact you won't tell your dad what's going on isn't a surprise considering what you're keeping from me."

"What is he keeping from you?" Sam asked narrowing his eyes at Blue.

"Nothing dad" Blue said holding his hands out "there isn't anything."

"Oh right" Delia said arching her eyebrow at him "so there isn't currently an entire folder sitting in Charles Goodshows office detailing the investigation of my husband's disappearance, that was signed off on by every single person at this table as 'need to know' that has been kept from me for over eleven years now? The fact every single one of you can look me in the eyes is disgusting. Did you never wonder why Ash wants Blues position so much Sam? It's because when he becomes champion and believe me he will, he plans to 'expose' every single person here for their part in the cover up of Reds disappearance. Every one of you knows what happened to my husband and the truth will come out very soon. Now if you will excuse me, I have a son to see" with that Delia stood up and marched out of the room.

"Which one of you told her?" Blue asked looking at them all.

"None of us did" Agatha said "I may have given Ash clues about what happened that day when we were in Lavender Town, but he had already pieced together bits and pieces from newspaper clippings. The boy is incredibly intelligent. In the space of half an hour he had deduced what happened that day on Cinnabar, who was involved and why. He also deduced that his dad's disappearance was very convenient for Fuji's trial and said he wouldn't be surprised if it was planned by you and Charles to take back his title."

"Tell me Agatha is lying" Sam said furiously "because if I find out you had anything to do with Red's disappearance, I will disown you."

"None of us had anything to do with it dad" Blue said looking concerned. Turning to Agatha he said "I'm going to need your resignation by Monday. We were all forbidden from speaking about it and you disobeyed that order. I might not like it, but we have rules we must adhere to."

"Then you can have my resignation as well" Bruno said, "and don't forget boy, we know the truth."

"And mine" Lorelei piped up.

"Yours aren't necessary" Blue said leaning back wiping a hand down his face "just Agatha's."

"Tough" Bruno said standing up "you fire Agatha and we're all gone."

"That is blackmail" Blue said furiously standing up as well.

"Well, its tough shit, isn't it?" Bruno replied also standing up and dwarfing Blue "for eleven years now we have had to sit by and let others suffer because of the oath we all took. Well, I won't be party to it anymore."

"Have you seen what you've started?" Blue said turning to Agatha. Before she could answer though Sam stood up.

"You will mind how you speak boy when you address Agatha" he said angrily putting a hand on her shoulder stopping her from retorting "it's only by a quirk of fate that Agatha isn't your mother but that does not mean you can speak like that to her. Now you have some serious growing up to do Blue and until you do, do not bother visiting my lab. Anything that's said between us will be strictly professional from now on. So, until Agatha and the other members of the Elite Four receives an apology and Delia receives Red's file do not bother getting in contact. I will be having words with Charles myself about this and if I find out you have known all along what happened to Red there will be hell to pay. Come on Agatha, I believe I saw vending machines downstairs, we'll get Delia a cup of tea and some food" holding his hand out Agatha slipped hers in his and looped his arm before walking out of the room.

"You knew this day was coming Blue" Lance said glaring at him "we all did when we signed that contract. And there's not been a single day that's gone by where I've not regretted it."

"But I didn't have anything to do with Red disappearing" Blue said sitting back down "I don't even know what happened that day."

"What do you mean?" Lorelei asked.

"Exactly what I said" Blue replied "I've never been able to remember that day fully. I've had Alakazam go through my mind, and he couldn't find anything either. All I remember is Red ordering me to leave Viridian Gym, the confrontation with Jenny, the explanation to Charles and Lance about disobeying an order and then signing a contract a few days later. I don't even know what I signed, just that it was important and that it would be locked away."

"That's very strange" Lance said frowning trying to recall what happened that day "I remember everything up until the meeting with Charles. I can't seem to remember the meeting either though."

"Now that I think on it neither can I" Bruno said shaking his head.

"Nor I" his wife said "someone has obviously messed with our minds. But if Alakazam can't recover our memories who can?"

"I've no idea" Blue said sighing "I'm sorry guys. I apologise for my behaviour and I'll apologise to Agatha as well; I won't be asking for her resignation either."

"Damn right you won't" Bruno said looking him in the eye "but if you ever threaten any of us like that again your face will be having a meeting with my hands. Agatha has been like my mother for over twenty years now, she deserves the respect she has more than earned."

"I know" Blue said sighing "I will apologise to her as soon as I see her. Dad however is going to be a lot harder. I have no way of getting Red's file to Delia, not without going through Goodshow first."

"Then we will have to come up with a plan." Lance said "I do wonder if Goodshow is in the same situation we are in though. Maybe it's hope and nothing more."

"No, there's no way he'd have files in his office he wouldn't know everything about" Lorelei said.

"Unless he's been made to believe he already knows about what's in the file" Lance said leaning forward "we all have blank spots, there's no way he wouldn't either."

"I think I better go and see Dad and explain what I can to Delia." Blue said standing up "she deserves that much."

Sam and Agatha entered Ash's room carrying a cup of tea with a few biscuits. Putting them next to Delia they sat down and waited for her to start talking. She was sitting on a chair with her eyes closed holding Ash's hand.

"Ash knew something was going to happen today and still left to go and sort it out. We're supposed to be on a relaxing holiday. This cruise was just supposed to be him and I catching up with each other and enjoying some mum and son time. Why can we never have anything?" Delia said quietly.

"I wish it were otherwise Delia" Sam said "but Ash has always had this belief in himself that he alone can sort out any issues. Don't glare at me like that Delia, you know it's true, even if you don't like it, he's very much like Red in that regard. Ash decided to take on that Tentacruel knowing that only he and Pikachu would be at risk. He saved thousands of people today, Delia. That Pokémon would have crushed buildings onto people, and they wouldn't have been able to do anything about it. He's a hero."

"Despite Sam's awful bedside manner, he is correct" Agatha said playfully glaring at him "we've known each other a long time Delia. Ash has always had this belief in himself that few others have. Not even Red had his abilities. Ash saved everyone's lives in the city today."

"At the cost of his own?" Delia asked furiously wiping tears from her eyes.

"Yes" Sam said looking at Ash "as I said, he's very much like his father in that regard."

"My dad is right" came a voice from the door making Delia sit up and glare at him. Blue came in with the others. Holding up his hands he continued "I know I am unwelcome here, but I have a few things I need to say before I leave. Agatha, I apologise for my actions today. You deserve more respect than I gave you and I apologise for what I said and did. Dad, I apologise for how I behaved, it will not happen again. Before I get to Delia, I have a question to ask Agatha. What do you remember of the day we signed the contract in Charles' office?"

Wondering where he was going with this Delia turned to Agatha and waited while she thought about it. "Very little now you mention it. I recall us all sitting around a table discussing Reds disappearance and that an investigation was underway. I know we all signed a form so that Charles made it temporarily secret until the outcome of the investigation was done. That's normal really" she said turning to Delia "as Elite Four we have temporary executive powers in high profile cases. It's in case we ourselves are under investigation as it means that the other Elites have full access to everything we have. Signing that order meant we could access Reds emails and case files without having to wait for the police to eventually get round to it. The rest is a bit blurry though. I suspect my mental faculties are failing me."

"No" Blue said sitting down "they're not. Not a single one of us can recall what happened after that point. All we remember is signing a contract and we don't even know what was in the contract. All we knew was that it was about Red and that it was a conclusion to his death."

"None of you remember?" Sam asked concerned "how is that possible?"

"I don't know dad" Blue said "I've even had Alakazam go though my memories several times over the years. He's not found anything amiss with his psychic scans. Alakazam are incredibly strong psychic Pokémon so whatever happened to us all is a mystery."

"No known psychic" Delia whispered looking at Ash intently.

"What was that?" Sam asked.

"It's just something Ash and I have been debating about ever since we found out about the experiments on Cinnabar that Red was investigating." Delia said speaking her thoughts "something my brother Giovanni said as a random comment has stayed in Ash's head since it was said. Gio said that "no known psychic Pokemon could have teleported him from Johto to Kanto" Known psychic. The experiments on Cinnabar were on a Mew fossil, so it stands to reason anything created would also have psychic powers and would be very strong. Ash pieced it together from the reports. We believe something survived Cinnabar and has been hiding ever since. Ash felt something in Cerulean cave when he went past. He said he felt the same thing in Lavender Town and he thinks Fuji and Giovanni are somehow connected to it. We're just not sure what yet."

"We thought the same thing when Agatha came to us about Lavender Town" Lance said, "but without proof we have no ideas."

"Maybe it's worth investigating Cerulean Cave?" Blue asked "I'm sure Alakazam and I could do that. That still leaves us with holes in our memories though."

"I'm still not certain I believe you" Delia said looking at him "you've kept this from me for eleven years. It took my own son digging into the past to tell me what all of you should have told me eleven years ago. Regardless of what little information you actually have, I should have been made aware of what was known about my husband's disappearance."

"You're correct" Lance said "but we all signed a confidentiality contract about this. The repercussions should this ever be known aren't fun. It will cost us more than our jobs. So, for now I would like to keep this all between us." receiving nods, even a reluctant one from Delia Lance excused himself followed by the rest until it was just Delia and Ash.

"We will find out Ash" Delia said quietly "and whoever took your father from us will pay."

Elsewhere

"Sir, I have information for you."

"Speak" a man said half hidden in shadows, a Persian asleep on a rug in front of a fire.

"We have found the Mt Moon team Sir, or what remains of them anyway. I have been investigating for the last few months now what happened. We found five of the team members hidden in a little passageway in a tunnel. It was the smell Sir that led us to them. We still have no information where Admin Arnold and the two remaining members are though Sir, though there have been several rockslides and earthquakes near Mt Moon lately that have collapsed a lot of the tunnels that go deep into Mt Moon so they could be buried under all the rubble."

"So, they are dead" the man said unconcerned "how did they die?"

"I'm not sure Sir. The decay has made it difficult to figure out. I have one of the mortuary assistants working on their cause of death Sir. I shall inform you as soon as I find out. We have also dug up and recovered the bodies of the Power Plant team as well sir."

"Why?"

"Something about it doesn't feel right Sir. From the reports of the eyewitness all of them were killed by a Zapdos, but two of them managed to escape down a hallway where only one had injuries that a Zapdos inflicted. How did the other one die? From the reports his head had a hole in it. You know as well as I do Sir that escaping with information is more vital than saving another operatives life. It is drilled into them from the time they start training and if one of them had a grievous wound made by Zapdos beak he would not waste time carrying a man with a hole in his head to escape while bleeding out."

"So, what are you saying?" the man asked curiously.

"I believe this Ash Ketchum lied. And I believe he knows who actually killed the man with the hole in his head"?

"Ketchum?" the man asked, "why does that name ring a bell?"

"His father is Red Ketchum sir" the grunt said nervously.

A growl escaped the man's lips, and the Persian opened its eyes and yawned before looking keenly at the grunt "So meddling Red has a child, does he?"

"It would seem so Sir." the grunt said looking at a piece of paper with his notes "Ash has been a trainer for five months now. He's also responsible for stopping those incompetent trainers who revealed our comeback at Viridian Pokémon Centre."

"Yes, I remember now. Put a tail on Ketchum. I want to know what's going on with him."

"Well currently Sir he's at Porta Vista hospital. He was on the SS Anne on holiday. Apparently, he saved the city from a giant Tentacruel and was injured in the process."

"Porta Vista? How curious. He stops my operatives in Viridian, then a few weeks later my Moon team go missing. Then the Power Plant team dies and he's at the site. And then few days ago my theme park is destroyed costing me billions in Pokédollars and Ketchum is in the vicinity again? It seems a Ketchum is interfering with my operations once again but at the minute I cannot afford to have him killed." he said looking over the notes. Seeing the Elite Four names he frowned "He's very well connected at the moment. Put a tail on him, those two idiots can do that. Tell them not to interact or interfere with him in any way."

"Sir, those two were arrested today for causing the destruction of Porta Vista."

Silence reigned as the boss drummed his fingers on the table. "Sir?"

"Have Domino extract them and get them in here. Their explanation had better be phenomenally good. Have Cassidy and Biff tail Ketchum but be sure to warn them this is an intel assignment only. If and only if Ketchum attacks are they to retaliate. Any deviation will have severe repercussions."

"Yes Sir. I shall do it at once. I shall send you the information from the mortuary findings too." Leaving the boss as quickly as they could the Grunt gave the rest the orders from the boss.

Standing up from his desk he walked over to his drinks cabinet where he poured himself a brandy. Sitting back down he held it up to the light. As he did so he saw the scars that littered his hand, relics from his fight with Red Ketchum. Snarling he threw the glass at the wall, stood up and faced out of the window overlooking the city. "Ketchum" he growled.

Hall Of Origin

The legendaries had gathered once again. It seemed this was going to be more of a quarter yearly event now rather than the annual one. Waiting for the last to arrive a few bits of conversation happened, curious as to why they'd been called again. When Yveltal finally arrived Arceus stood up and walked to the centre halting any conversation. Roaring they all watched on as the sky changed into the incident at Porta Vista. Listening to Ash's words before he charged at the Tentacruel left them all in shock. The loyalty between Ash and Pikachu was unheard of. Sacrificing himself so Pikachu could be guaranteed a critical hit had mutters ring around the congregated Legends. The scene ended with Pikachu and Ash holding each other's hand, a smoking corpse of Tentacruel in the background.

"As you can all see, there has been an incident with the Chosen One. At the minute he lies in a hospital grievously wounded after sacrificing himself to save a city from a rampaging Pokémon. I'm here to get some advice from you all about how to proceed." Arceus intoned.

"What do you mean mother?" Mew asked.

"I'm afraid that I have sentenced the Chosen One to death with my plan for him and I'm at a loss on how to proceed." She said shaking her magnificent head looking sorrowful.

"We must help him however we can" Zapdos said walking forwards "recently he saved my life. Without him and Pikachu being in the vicinity you would all now be talking to my son. Show them Arceus."

Nodding Arceus roared again, this time it was from Zapdos' perspective. Hearing Zapdos' thoughts on the strange boy who had rescued him when he was at his most helpless rather than take advantage and catch him. Hearing him give his explanation as to why he'd never own a Legendary went a long way of improving the reluctant legends opinions of him. Listening to Zapdos give Ash confidential information about their breeding was a little concerning but given Ash's character was also forgivable. When the scene stopped Arceus roared, and the scene became Ash in the hospital bed again. Curiously she asked.

"You would have gone with Ash? Despite knowing the role you have in this world?"

"You do not get to judge me Lady Arceus" Zapdos said shocking them all "Ash saved my life, not you, not anyone else here. Ash did so yes, I trust him with my life and would have travelled with him for as long as he'd have wanted me around. Had I done so he would not now be in the position he is in as I would have been able to take down the Tentacruel."

"I am not judging you Zapdos" Arceus said with a little frown at his tone "I am simply wanting to understand why."

"What are they saying?" Mew suddenly asked as she saw the heated debate happening around his hospital bed.

"Let's listen in" Arceus said. The conversation that they heard shocked everyone. Had the abomination already been created? If so, how could they not all feel it? And why hadn't Arceus told them about it?

"Why didn't you tell me my brother had already been created?" Mew asked hurt.

"I didn't know Mew" Arceus shocked voice said, "why didn't I know?"

Hearing a snort, they all turned to Darkrai. Mindful of what went on last time he wasn't as arrogant with his response to the glares. "They clearly said it was a Psychic type that's been created. Take your Dread Plate off mother."

Curious Arceus gave him a searching look but cautiously did so. As soon as she did, she felt every psychic Pokémon in the world and immediately she felt a massive presence off the coast of Cinnabar and Seafoam Islands. Gasping she zeroed in on it and roared to the sky. Immediately everyone could see what she felt. A two-meter-high bipedal cat like Pokémon stared back at them, its eyes glowing purple.

"I wondered when you would be contacting me" it said.

"Who are you?" Arceus asked.

"I have had many names over the years" it replied "the abomination, the freak, the Mew-knock off. Only one person gave me a name that stuck. They called me Mewtwo, how unoriginal. Those people who created me were the abominations, the freaks and I am no Mew knock off, I am much more powerful than Mew will ever be. I was created to be the most powerful Pokémon in the world and I am."

"You will answer to me Mewtwo" Arceus said roaring.

"I will do no such thing" Mewtwo said angrily "the world and the people in it are going to burn for what they did to me and then you all will be next. This is your only warning. Stay away from me."

"But what about the other one?" Celebi asked Mew.

"What other one?" Mewtwo asked sharply.

"The other Mewtwo that's been created" Victini said.

It was the wrong thing to say as Mewtwo's eyes glowed and he replied "they dared to make another one? After what they did to me? And you have done nothing?"

"We cannot" Dialga said "Arceus forbids us from interfering with the human world."

"And in doing so I was created and experimented on!" Mewtwo said angrily. "And you have let it happen again and done nothing, again! You may listen to that worthless God of yours, but I will not. They will pay." Abruptly Mewtwo ended whatever connection had been created.

"How could he cancel the connection like that?" Mew asked.

"With the removal of six of my plates I am not as powerful as I should be" Arceus said placing the Dread Plate back into its place "clearly Mewtwo has been around for a long time now. And yet again my own oversight seems to be coming back to haunt us."

"We must do something mother" Xerneas said "we must remove the threat of Mewtwo one way or the other. The balance must be maintained."

"I cannot, we cannot" Mew said sadly "Mewtwo is still a Pokémon, therefore we are all still under mothers' edicts."

"What Mew says is correct" Arceus said sadly "it is not our task to quell Mewtwos rage. That is the responsibility of our voice on Earth."

"The chosen one" Zapdos said looking at the image of Ash in the sky "we must be allowed to aid him mother."

"And we shall. I want you all to keep an eye out for him, assist him any way you can when you do see him but do not tell him and do not do so openly. Apart from that we're all pretty useless." Arceus said shaking her head. After a minute of silence, she continued "or maybe not. Mew, Celebi, I want you two to visit him tonight and heal him, heal his Pikachu too. Do not be seen and do not tell him who has healed him. We may not be able to interfere directly in his quest, but we can aid him subtly. If any of you can think of anything else to aid him let me know. We will meet again in three months' time. Until then, be wary of Mewtwo."

Roaring Arceus cancelled the sky screen and gradually all the legendaries faded away except for Mew and Zapdos. Curious Arceus wondered what they wanted.

"I wish to aid Ash more directly." Zapdos said "I'm aware of the edicts but you once told Darkrai and Latios that they could choose to become a trainers Pokémon. What if I sent my son to aid his Pikachu?"

"Hmmm" Arceus said "your plan has merit. Speak to your son, we will decide when we next meet. What can I do for you Mew?"

"I wish to hunt down Mewtwo." Mew said, "he is my brother."

"He will harm you Mew" Arceus said gently "but I will let you try. If you feel outmatched flee. You can always fight another day."

Nodding the two of them left Arceus to her ponderings.

Ash

Ash was currently floating around in space. The stars and planets were very bright tonight. Not that that was unusual in Ash's mind he decided. He was in space after all, they were bound to be brighter with no clouds in the way. He was quickly growing annoyed with the tranquillity though. It was very boring. He was also getting annoyed with the little taps he kept getting on his arms, like something was poking him yet every time he looked at his arms there was nothing there. It was maddening. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath. Opening them he found he wasn't alone. In front of him were two big purple eyes. Closing his eyes, he opened them again quickly and found they had disappeared. Deciding to ignore it as a figment of his imagination he tried to relax again. At least that poking had stopped he mused. Sadly though he never got the chance as something smacked him on the face dazing him. Looking around left him bewildered as he was alone. He was in space for Arceus' sake, the only things up here were the stars. And then the beeping started.

That tapping had returned too. Grumbling out an expletive he again tried to relax. It just wasn't happening though as the tapping became louder, and a noise began to accompany it. It was so far away though that he couldn't decipher what was being said. Concentrating hurt his brain so he gave up trying that. Why could he not just be left alone in space to relax? Was that too much to ask for.

"Ash…" the voice whisperingly echoed through his mind "Ash…"

"Can you not just leave me alone?" he tried to reply but all that came out was unintelligible gibberish.

"Ash…" the voice said again in the same tone "Chosen…"

Chosen? Where had he heard that phrase before? He knew it was important, it had to be but for the life of him he couldn't remember what it meant. Closing his eyes to try and focus became an impossibility due to the voice in his head and the tapping on his arms that became more persistent. This time when he opened his eyes though he found he was staring at a ceiling. How very odd. The beeping was much louder now but it seemed to have more of a rhythm to it. Struggling to move his head he finally managed to flop it in the direction of the beeping and found himself staring into the big purple eyes again. Confusion was quickly replaced with recognition. Why was Mew here? And for that matter where was here? Those eyes were very expressive Ash decided as he could clearly see panic set in before Mew vanished. Looking up at the ceiling everything came back to him. The cruise, the fight, Pikachu. Pikachu! Where was his best friend.

The machine at the side of him was going haywire. And from nowhere the door was flung open as several people entered and began rushing around the room yelling various things. Ash could only catch bits and pieces and they left him more bewildered.

"…shouldn't be awake…"

"…less than a day…"

"…the machine off…"

Ash felt something being removed from his throat and instantly he felt like he could breathe better. He heard the people shouting his name, but he decided to ignore them and close his eyes. Hopefully when he opened them again Pikachu would be there. The next time he opened his eyes he shut them again quickly. It was so bright. Had he finally made it to the sun? What an idiotic thought his brain said as his memory came back to him. Opening his eyes cautiously again he saw a few people sat next to his bed. It could only be a bed Ash thought as he was clearly lying down. Croaking he drew the attention of the people who rushed to him, one with a glass of water with a straw in it. Greedily he drank and then laid his head back down closing his eyes. He felt a hand run through his hair, opening his eyes it took a few seconds to recall who it was. Closing his eyes again he muttered "Mum…Pikachu." Before falling asleep again.

The next few weeks were a blur to Ash. He had awakened properly in that time and been told what happened. Pikachu was alive, which was a huge relief for Ash. He was severely injured though and wouldn't be able to battle for a while. Ash wasn't bothered by this; he was just grateful their last act had succeeded. Pikachu was still hooked up to a machine to heal his body from the trauma but would be fine. His mum, after scolding him had informed him of what happened after he had distracted the Tentacruel, what happened after the battle and the conversations that had happened between Delia, Sam and the Elite Four. She apologised for letting the cat out of the bag, but Ash wasn't concerned by that.

"Mum, you have every right to demand answers about dad's disappearance. I still think they're hiding something but at least we have more of an idea about the cover up, and that there actually IS one. We're not paranoid mum. And hopefully Sam can get the information out of Goodshow. I still don't trust they're telling the whole truth though."

"Me neither Ash" Delia said sighing "now I have something to discuss with you. The SS Anne leaves Porta Vista in three days' time. Apparently quite a few people on the cruise were involved in the battle that happened and were in here for various issues. The harbour is also being fixed too. You're being released the day after tomorrow as is Pikachu. What do you want to do? Do you want to go home, or do you want to go back onto the ship?"

"What would you prefer mum?" Ash asked quietly.

"That's not the question here Ash" Delia said giving him a look "the question is what you want to do. The SS Anne will be in Fuchsia in just over a week and then it goes back to Vermillion. That's two whole weeks away."

"I want to carry on with my journey" Ash said picking at the blanket "am I allowed to?"

Sighing Delia sat back "I'm not going to stop you, Ash. What happened here was very unforeseen, but you found yourself in the centre of a problem that you placed yourself in yet again. I know what you're going to say, 'you had a feeling'. Trust me I know all about them and they've never been wrong yet. But you could have died Ash."

"But I didn't mum" Ash said looking up "I didn't die, and I stopped hundreds of others from potentially dying."

"I'm aware of that Ash" Delia said frowning "but if you believe you sacrificing yourself for other people makes me feel any better about the situation then think again. You are in a hospital, they are not. And I know which way around I'd have preferred it to be. You are my son. I don't give two shits about anyone else Ash." Sighing she stood up and walked to the window "ultimately though you are your father's son. The number of scrapes I had to clean up on his body because he didn't think about situations before entering them are uncountable. And you also have my stubbornness." Sitting back down she looked at him and sighed before saying "we will go back on the ship. You will do nothing but relax. There will be no thoughts of battles or future battles. We will not talk about Arceus' bloody plans either. Understood?"

Nodding Ash said "Yes, thank you mum."

"I know how important your journey is to you Ash. Trust me I really do." Standing up Delia went to leave before Ash's words halted her.

"I saw Mew mum. Why was she here?"

"I have no idea. But we will find out Ash" Delia replied before leaving the room.

Several days later Ash and Delia left the hospital and checked back into their rooms. Lying down he looked over at Pikachu who was asleep on the pillow. They had come so close to dying and it frightened him. Wiping away tears he decided to talk to the rest of his Pokémon that his mum had been taking care of. Releasing them Ash sat there in shock. Wartortle and Charmeleon were fine. But Bulbasaur had evolved.

"Hi guys" Ash said stupidly "Ivysaur, you look different."

Instead of answering Ivysaur slapped him on the head with a vine and snorted.

"Yup, he's still an idiot" Wartortle said shaking his head.

"You're not wrong" Charmeleon said giving him an angry look "don't think we've forgotten you sent us to help someone else Ash. And while it was 'noble' work we still had no idea what happened to you until a day later when your mum told us what happened. We could have helped Ash. Do not ever send us away like that again."

"I can't promise that Charmeleon" Ash said sighing "there are going to be times when I ask you to help someone other than myself. You won't be alone in that either. You saved hundreds of lives out there guys. I'm so proud of all of you."

"Do not try and switch the subject Ash" Charmeleon said furiously "you could have died, and we wouldn't have known because you sent us away. Ivysaur's choice in evolving was taken away from him because of the decision and the necessity of the battle, Wartortle was severely hurt, Pikachu nearly died, and we wouldn't have known! We're meant to be a team, Ash; we're meant to be a family. We look out for each other. Or at least that's what you've been telling us. Were they lies?"

"We are a team" Ash said shaking his head wondering where all this was coming from "of course they weren't lies."

"Well, you have a funny way of showing it" Charmeleon said before leaving the room. Knocking on Delia's door she opened it wondering what was going on. Seeing Charmeleon in some distress she let him in where he just curled up on the rug and closed his eyes. After several minutes where Delia pottered around unpacking, again Charmeleon broke the silence.

"Thank you, Mrs Ketchum."

"I'm assuming that was thank you?" Delia asked. Seeing him nod she continued "I can only understand bits of Poké-speech. I assume you're angry at Ash?" which received another nod "yup, me too. But while he's an idiot, he's our idiot" which earned a snort from Charmeleon.

"He made us abandon him" Charmeleon said slowly so she could understand him.

"Ah yeah, I can see why you'd be mad given your past." Delia said "Ash told me what happened to you. He also told me of what happened in Porta Vista. You saved a lot of people's lives you know?"

"Don't care about them" Charmeleon snorted "they're not Ash."

"Yes, well we agree on that." Delia stated "As I told him a few days ago I don't care what happens to other people. He's my son, not theirs. Next time you disagree with something though I suggest you talk it through with him. His heart was in the right place."

"But not his head." Charmeleon said "he's my only family. And I would never have known what happened to him if you hadn't told me. I think I have a right to be angry about being asked to abandon him when he needed me most. I'm not jealous of Pikachu and Wartortle, I'm glad they were with him. But I am irritated that we weren't together at what could have been the end."

"Again, we agree on that" Delia said "I suggest you stay here for tonight. I'll talk to him at tea but it's really a discussion you both should be having."

"I will" Charmeleon said "I will do everything I can do to prevent what happened happening again Mrs Ketchum. If that means saving Ash from himself, I will do."

"Good" she said leaving to head to the canteen for tea.

The next few days flew by. Charmeleon and Ash were still not on great speaking terms but had at least talked through the issues they had. When the SS Anne arrived in Fuchsia Delia left the ship to do some shopping. Ash never had any intentions to get off at Fuchsia anyway so spent the day by the ships pool with all his Pokémon at his side. Looking over at Pikachu made Ash very concerned as he still hadn't spoken since leaving the hospital. Clearly, he was working through some issues he had and would talk when he was ready, but Ash missed the conversations he had with Pikachu. Sighing he leaned back on the lounger.

"I'm sorry Pi" Ash said looking at him earning a raised head "I know I put us in the position we found ourselves in and I know it would have been my fault had we failed. We very nearly died, and it would have been my fault."

"I'm not mad about that Ash" Pikachu said earning a look from them all "I'm mad because were in this situation to begin with. I used to think being chosen by Arceus was a great thing, we were special. The Chosen Ones chosen Pokémon but Porta Vista changed that perception. Aside from us all finding each other, what has Arceus done to aid us? Nothing is the answer, Ash. Absolutely nothing. Growing up wild I heard all the stories about how great Arceus the Kind was, how her edicts were just and beneficial for all Pokémon-kind. Porta Vista again changed that perception. I don't think I believe that she can't interfere anymore. I think she chooses not to. Charmeleon was abused by Damien, Wartortle and Ivysaur were abandoned by their trainers, the Tentacool at Porta Vista did nothing wrong and nearly fifty of them died trying to save their homes. Homes that shouldn't have been built over to begin with and again Arceus didn't interfere. Are you telling me she couldn't lay her judgement on the wicked if she so chose? That is what's making me angry. I never thought I would feel like this Ash."

"I agree" Ivysaur piped up shocking them all "we're all misfits brought together by one person. You Ash. But aside from telling you what your destiny is, giving you access to your aura and finding us what has she actually done to assist you? We've been thrown into one bad situation after another in the few months since we met, and not once had any word from her. All we can go off is what you've been told. There's an issue due to happen sometime in the next six months. That's it. That's all you've been told. How are you not angrier?" he finished earning nods from everyone.

"I've asked myself that" Ash said sighing "and I've yet to come up with an answer. Mums also asked me that too so you're not alone in those thoughts you've all been having. Mum is very angry at times about it, mainly because she's been made to feel helpless by Arceus' decisions. How do you argue with a literal God? I feel like I can't be angrier because she gave me you guys, not only that but she gave me the ability to understand you all. That's pretty huge. Does that outweigh the issues we're going to come across? Probably not. Her edicts make sense to me at times and then other times they don't. It all comes down to free will though doesn't it, otherwise we live in a dictatorship and have no control over anything in life."

"Ash, we don't have control over our lives" Pikachu said seriously "Arceus does! We know that we're literally headed towards a disaster that could end the world and have been given breadcrumbs to follow rather than actual answers."

"So, what do we do then?" Ash asked "because for the last five years all I've been training for, every tear I've cried, every bit of blood, every bit of sweat, every broken bone has been because I've been training for this event. I can't just give up on that Pi."

"And we're not saying we do" Wartortle said interrupting "it's pretty clear that we've all been brought together for a reason. I know it may seem like arrogance, but your training Ash has convinced me we'll all be the strongest starter Pokémon the world has ever seen and as long as we keep to our beliefs we will be. Having said that though I say we do things our way. If they happen to converge with what Arceus wanted then so be it, otherwise we do it for ourselves. With the information we do have we know somethings coming. So, we train for that event and we fight for each other. No more sending us away to help other people, none of us will ever be isolated again Ash."

"Agreed" Charmeleon said nodding "I swore to your mum that I would do everything I could to help you, Ash. And I will not be forced to go back on my word."

"Are you all in agreement?" Ash asked "I once told you guys that we sort issues out as a family, and I failed on that a month ago. So, are you all decided on this course of action?"

"We are" Pikachu said firmly "as long as she refuses to help us directly Arceus' task, whatever it is will take a back seat to us becoming great. If this turns into nothing more than a crisis of faith, then I'll let you all know. I doubt it will though."

"Agreed" they all said nodding. That night Ash told his mum of his Pokémon's decision and why they had come to it. Sitting around the table on the balcony Delia listened and gave advice when it was needed. Overall though she was happier than she had been that morning. Ash had recklessly been throwing himself into situations because he believed that they were all training exercises for whatever the big event coming up is. Hearing that his Pokémon would step in if they felt it was necessary took a massive burden off her shoulders and she went to bed that night and slept peacefully for the first time in five months.

The next week passed by very peacefully. Ash spent as much time as he could with his mum and his Pokémon as they were all going to miss each other. Pikachu and Ivysaur had taken Cleffa under their wings and taught her basic techniques utilising her tiny hands. She had come out of her shell a lot, much to the chagrin of Pikachu who was often seen to be grabbing her and escaping situations she caused. Many times, Delia had had to apologise. Eevee on the other hand had grown sullen. She knew their adventure would soon be over with and she didn't realise how much she missed Ash. She spoke to Delia about it, who in turn spoke to Ash and between the three of them they came up with a compromise. Every time Ash planned to spend more than three days at a Pokémon Centre Eevee would join them. It wasn't ideal for Ash, but his mum had a point when she said Eevee was family too. Getting back into Vermillion Ash and Delia departed the SS Anne. They couldn't believe two whole months had passed by already as it was nearly February. Heading to the Pokémon centre they found that someone was waiting for them at the reception desk. It was Lance.

"Hello all" he said "I'm glad to see you up and about Ash. I don't believe we've met before. I'm Lance."

"I know who you are" Ash said laughing "what are you doing here?"

"Well, it occurred to me that I didn't give either of you my number." Lance said smiling.

"You came all the way to Vermillion to give us your number?" Delia asked sceptically.

"Ah no, actually I came to see you, Delia. You see I asked Melanie to marry me, and she said yes." Lance said beaming.

"I know" Delia replied "she rang me to tell me you'd finally asked her. Took you long enough Lance."

"Yes well" he said frowning "anyway she told me she wanted to speak to you in person about the wedding, so I told her I'd come and collect you."

"Oh, ok" Delia said smiling "it would be lovely to see her again, it's been a while."

"Er mum" Ash said bewildered "who's Melanie?"

"Oh" Delia said "she's Red and Blues best friend. When they left Pallet Town on their journey Melanie was the third trainer to do so on the same day. Her nickname was Green as she adored flowers and plants, which was very apt considering she left Pallet Town with a Bulbasaur. She was the one who introduced us to each other. She's been Lances Assistant for twenty years now and now she's the future Mrs Waturu."

"Oh ok" Ash said "well congratulations Lance." Turning to his mum he continued "I'll give you a ring tonight before I get on that bloody bus again to Saffron. I won't be staying there though; I'll head to Celadon from there. I've loved being with you mum. Despite the last half being less than ideal I've loved every minute."

"Me too Ash" she said giving him a hug "we should do it again next year."

"Maybe not as adventure filled though" Ash said laughing. "It was nice to meet you, Lance. I'll let you know when I'm on the way to Cinnabar for the Aerodactyl. Stay safe mum."

Smiling Delia picked up her bag and followed Lance out of the door into a limousine which sped off into the distance.

"Well Pi" Ash said as he watched the car disappear "it's just us again buddy."

Chapter 19: Chapter 19- Celadon City

Chapter Text

Chapter 19- Celadon

The bus journey to Saffron was as hellish as it had been the other two times he'd done it. Getting up at an unreasonable hour to go on a twelve-hour bus ride was a nonsense Ash thought. He couldn't wait to get a flying type so they could travel that way. He had even considered a psychic type to use teleport before he dismissed that thought very quickly. He was clearly still suffering from the event in Porta Vista if he was entertaining thoughts like that. Arriving in Saffron around 7pm he decided it was a little too late to leave and spent the night in the Pokémon Centre.

Even though he had cleared out Saffron over two months ago he still felt uneasy being in the city. Deciding to visit Hatori he entered Silph Towers and asked if Hatori was available. He was told he was in luck and that Mr Suzuki would be down soon. Taking a seat Ash picked up a magazine and read a few articles before a cough disturbed him. Looking up it was Hatori.

"Mr Ketchum" he said holding out his hand "it's a pleasure to meet you again."

"Likewise, Mr Suzuki." Ash said, "I was passing back through and thought I'd give you the contract back in person."

"Oh yes" Hatori said "well let's visit father then and discuss it." Leading the way, they travelled up the elevator again and entered the President's office. "Father, Mr Ketchum has a reply to our offer." Sitting down opposite the president Ash pulled out the revised contract.

"Now obviously this is open to negotiations." Ash said handing it over "but my mother's lawyers have been over it, amended a few things here and there but overall, they felt the offer was fantastic. Professor Oak and my mother told me why they think you made an offer, but I would like to hear it from you personally."

Looking at him the president thought over his answer. Deciding on brutal honesty he said "being open and honest Mr Ketchum, we know that you're a future star in the making and want to be along for the ride before anyone else realises what you are destined to become. Having Silph be associated with the next Pokémon League Champion will provide Silph with many benefits. Endorsements on merchandise will make us a massive profit, you have already released several papers which are now league standard, your heroics at Power Plant, Lavender and Porta Vista have made people sit up and realise a new shaker is around. The main reason though is protection from groups like Team Rocket. Having the League Champion associated with the Silph name will mean several competitors or terrorist groups will think twice before trying to steal our inventions."

"I will not be an enforcer sir" Ash said frowning "I already have people trying to manipulate me into doing what they want. I won't sign that contract if that's what you're after."

"No Mr Ketchum" Hatori said holding his hands up "it was poorly worded. We're not after an enforcer. Think of it as more of a deterrent to those people who entertained those kinds of thoughts. You're someone with major connections already Mr Ketchum, having Silph be protected by those people would add another level of security to the ones we already have. We already have the ear of the League president and his Elite Four. Being truly honest, I doubt we would ever require you in that capacity."

Nodding Ash was silent for a few moments "Ok, I can understand that. I thank you for your honesty."

Giving the contract a quick once over he couldn't see anything too strenuous or out of order. "We will give the updated contract a look at and send our response within the week. The only issue I can see so far is profit percentages. We usually give our employees 10% of the profit intake from their inventions along with a bonus depending on how well it sells. The 20% you have asked for, for sales profits and book deals is a little too high given we finance literally everything about them" the president said looking at Ash.

"As I said, it's negotiable, it's not set in stone." Ash replied, "My mother put that in more for added security when I'm older as she can see us having a very long and profitable relationship."

"Yes, and normally I would agree with her" Hatori said "however, at the moment you are still a rookie, and have nothing but a few exploits to tell of outside of the academic world. All of this is about potential. You could become nothing; you could be become a legend. There is a lot of financial risk."

"And I get that" Ash said "which is why I said it's not finalised yet. I'll do you a deal though, I won't entertain any other offers I may get until you give my lawyers your final offer. I am genuinely looking forward to working alongside you, but my mother's priority is getting the best deal for me that secures my future."

"As you say it's still in the negotiations stage." the president said looking at him shrewdly "Now, onto safer topics. We wanted to thank you for your warning about the Masterball. A few days after you left an employee of ours tried to steal it on behalf of a rival company, when that failed, they tried to steal the blueprints for it. Luckily, we had moved it to a much safer place the night you warned us."

"Oh, you're very welcome" Ash said "as I said it's a fantastic piece of technology, but it's open to so much abuse. Not everyone has the same intentions you guys had when creating it. But I'm glad it's been moved. Are you still giving one to the Indigo League Champion as a prize?"

"Your knowledge is astounding Mr Ketchum" Hatori said laughing "very few people knew that piece of information. It's still in negotiations at the minute and as we don't know the character of the next champion, should it not be you that is, we want to ensure they deserve such a prize. Plus, Charles is reluctant to have anything like that advertised before the Championships are held. We likely won't know until the finals itself."

"Ah no worries" Ash replied nodding and looking at his watch "I'm afraid I have to be going. To get to Celadon on my schedule I need to leave by late afternoon. It was a pleasure meeting you both again" he said standing up. Hatori escorted him out and returned to his father.

"He is very clever" his father said standing up and looking out of the window "his offer isn't outrageous Hatori, but we have never given anyone that we sponsor or have work for us more than 15%."

"Maybe we can offer him 12% but have the rest as incentives?" Hatori said looking over the changes on the contract. "Looking at the amendments that seems to be the only sticking point that we don't agree on."

"It is" his father said returning to his seat "but there are no guarantees he will do what he says he will do and win the league."

"There are no guarantees in life Father" Hatori said laughing "and talking to him as I have? He will succeed."

"We're going to pay him millions, aren't we?" his father said sighing and pouring him and his son a drink.

Taking the drink, he raised it and said "Yes, but he'll make us billions."

Sipping his drink, the president said "get his lawyers on the phone, arrange a meeting. I want this sorted out by the weekend. The sooner we have him on board the better. Go up to 17%. He did say he was willing to negotiate. Hopefully incentivised profits will be acceptable."

Nodding Hatori put down the drink and left.

Leaving Silph Towers Ash headed to the Pokémart where he restocked his potions and vitamins. Spending over $40,000 Pokédollars left him feeling itchy but as it was necessary, he quickly got over it. He knew he was good for money, but that didn't mean he was going to throw it away. Quickly leaving Saffron Ash made his way onto Route 7. Celadon was only around four days walk away and the walk helped clear Ash's mind and focus on what he needed to do. After nearly two months without serious training or battling he was afraid of getting a little rusty. Pikachu was allowed to do light training and would hopefully be ready for Erika's gym. He swore there was nothing wrong with him, and that he felt fine, but Ash was under Joys orders to not let him battle for at least another two days.

"I'm sorry Pi" Ash said as they all sat around the fire that night "but you have two days left of your enforced two weeks off from battling. The fact we were awake the day after that event is incredible. Lance was convinced you'd need two months off not the one."

"Well, I'm glad he was wrong about that" Pikachu said grumbling around his apple "but two days Ash! It's only two days. Surely, I can battle when the days are so few."

"Exactly" Ash said smirking "it's only two days, surely you can survive another two days. Pi, I have no choice in this. I promised Joy and my mother and I won't go back on that promise. Anyway, we haven't seen a single trainer today, we might not see any before we get to Celadon so your whinging will have been for nothing anyway."

"It's not whinging" Pikachu said whinging causing everyone to laugh.

"Anyhoo" Ash said "Ivysaur. We've not had much chance to speak like this since Porta Vista. How are you doing? I know you planned on waiting to evolve, and I'm sorry for my part in it. How are you dealing with things?"

"Honestly" Ivysaur said "it's not as bad as I thought it would be. I can feel I have a deeper well of reserves for attacks. Sludge works how it should do now that my bulb is bigger and can pressurise attacks. I can feel the aura of the world a lot better too. It's difficult to explain."

"Your ability to manipulate the elements around you is better now you have deeper reserves" Charmeleon said looking at Ivysaur earning a nod "yeah, I discovered that too when I evolved. My inner pool tripled in size which meant I can train harder, use attacks for longer and make them more powerful. My range has increased too."

"Yeah, mine is the same" Wartortle said "my reservoir became more of a lake rather than the pond it was as a Squirtle, my accuracy got better, and my moves became more pressurised. I doubt I would have survived the Tentacruel as a Squirtle, I certainly wouldn't have lasted as long."

"That's exactly how I feel" Ivysaur said "only I don't have an inner pool of water or fire. It's like my bulb processes attacks much quicker with the added ability of making them more potent. My leaves have become so sharp they can pierce rocks and my vines have become thicker. The only issue I have is adapting to losing my speed."

"That was always going to happen" Ash said "we'll begin a new training regime tomorrow. We're going to have to switch you to getting used to tanking attacks and possibly become a counter-attacker. Your ability Chlorophyl will come in very handy, especially when we master Sunny Day and then Solarbeam. At the minute you can produce a very weak beam which is a great start but we'll train on it more. Charmeleon, we can teach you Sunny Day too to power up your fire attacks. Combined with Solar Power ccsaaayour fire attacks should do some serious damage. Wartortle we're going to teach you Rain Dance at some point. All of you will learn Safeguard and Protect. Pi you already know Light Screen, so we'll focus again on Lightning Sphere. We forgot you could use Aura."

"Er Ash" Charmeleon said "so can I. I discovered it during the incident with the Tentacool. Only it's not blue, it's like a flaming ball."

"Oh wow" Ash said getting Dexter out and scanning Charmeleon. His move list was impressive but there at the very end was Aura Sphere and Outrage, the latter of which was yet to be unlocked. "Do the rest of you know it?" he asked scanning them and sure enough they did. "So, my theory of infusing you guys with my Aura seems to be correct. We'll have to figure out a way to use it and master it. Wartortle, Ivysaur and Charmeleon, tomorrow we will train that move for you. I suspect they won't be blue like mine but will use your natural elements, so we'll have Pikachu explain it to you guys as he'll know better than I do how to form them for yourselves.

So, because your bodies are getting more durable, we'll be starting harsher training. We have four badges, which means we're halfway to our first checkpoint of making the league. Erika is a grass trainer, so I'll be using Charmeleon last to make sure we win. I'll be using Wartortle and Ivysaur to get them used to our battling style. Don't forget Wartortle evolved just before we left port in Vermillion and Ivysaur hasn't had a battle in his new body yet. Hopefully we see trainers on the way and can practice with them."

"Ash" Pikachu said "have you thought about who you want to complete our team? We don't want to get to the league and just have us four. While I have every confidence that we can overcome anyone in front of us we still need a complete team."

"I have yes" Ash said sighing "I've been looking at our move coverage so far for you all. And while we have counters to all your major type disadvantages, we still need Steel, Fighting, Psychic, Dark, Dragon, Flying, Rock and Ground. The rest we can deal with collectively. Now when Charmeleon evolves we can erase Flying and Dragon from that list. Pikachu knows Iron Tail, Charmeleon knows Metal Claw so I'm erasing Steel from the list too. I'm also erasing psychic for obvious reasons."

"Which leaves Fighting, Dark, Rock and Ground" Ivysaur said "not a lot of choice from those Ash."

"I know" Ash said sighing "hence my dilemma. Plus, there's no guarantee they'll fit into our team."

"Which means opening those other types for selection" Wartortle said.

"Everything except psychic" Ash said nodding. "I'm going to speak to Professor Oak when I reach Celadon. Maybe he can give me some advice on where to go from here."

The next few days passed quickly. They did indeed meet some trainers that they battled. Ivysaur was really struggling with adapting to his new style but was getting better with every battle. Ash still hadn't lost a battle yet since Brocks Golem but was more at ease with it now. They were more powerful, but they trained to the bone every day to reach their potential, so it wasn't a surprise. Ash's methods clearly worked but Pikachu had hit a plateau though in his electrical abilities. He was incredibly strong but his Thunder attack, while able to destroy most medium size boulders barely made a dent in big boulders and he was starting to become frustrated. How would he become a legend if he couldn't destroy everything in his path? Taking the Light Ball out of his sac he immediately felt the drop. If he had the potential to do significant damage with the Light Ball, then it was obvious he had that extra in reserve.

"Maybe that's how we increase your output Pi" Ash said "we train without it for a month, then with it for a few weeks, then without for a month etc etc. That way we can keep a more accurate detail of your levels. If it makes you feel any better, you outstripped Lt Surges Raichu a long time ago."

It mollified Pikachu somewhat so they agreed with Ash's new regimen. The night before Ash reached Celadon they were once again around the campfire chatting aimlessly when Ash heard a rustling. Standing up they all stopped talking and were put on high alert.

"I suggest whoever is there comes out now" Ash said. After a good thirty seconds of waiting Ivysaur had had enough and shot three thick vines out into the bush. A squeal was heard as a Pokémon was dragged out of the bushes and started thrashing around in mid-air making a terrible racket.

"Er Ivysaur" Ash said perplexed at seeing it "why is there a male Nidoran stalking us?"

"Ash" Ivysaur replied patiently "I've been beside you the whole time, how would I know?"

Chuckling Ash conceded the point. The squealing though was very annoying "Enough!" Ash roared quieting the Nidoran. "Now, Ivysaur will put you down, but you will stop that awful racket. Understood?"

Nodding Meekly Nidoran stopped thrashing and waited to be put down. Retracting his vines Ivysaur and the rest returned to their meal by the fire. "If you're hungry kid then come and have some food" Charmeleon said shocking them all as he rolled an apple towards the Nidoran. "don't look at me like that. He's obviously hungry, I've been in his position, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone."

Looking at them all Nidoran crept up on the apple, tentatively grabbed it in his mouth and scuttled away at a safe distance where he began to devour it.

"I see what you mean" Ash said taking a drink of his cocoa "poor guy must be starving" shouting over to the Nidoran Ash said "If you want more, we have plenty of food to go around. We promise we won't hurt you." Looking up from his finished snack Nidoran looked at them quizzically before shuffling forwards where he sat down next to Charmeleon looking nervous. "Here" Ash said taking out a bowl out of his bag, putting food in it and placing it next to Charmeleon. It obviously felt safe next to the fire type so why make it nervous? While the Nidoran ate his fill Ash carried on his conversation with Pikachu

"So yeah" Ash said "we'll start training without the Light Ball, see if that helps. I'll message Lt Surge as well to see if he has any tips on helping you. I'll be honest though, I'm at a loss on how to proceed myself."

"Well at least we have options" Pikachu said nodding "It's just frustrating."

"You know" Ivysaur said "there will come a point where you can't get any stronger Pikachu. I know you've only been training for five and a half months now with Ash but given the training we do it's not surprising you've plateaued. We had to evolve to be able to carry on training effectively. So, you have my sympathies."

"Have you given any thought to evolving?" Charmeleon asked "I know you swore you were happy as a Pikachu, but if you're at your limit now and evolution is on the table would you take it?"

"No" Pikachu said immediately "I was thinking about this on the SS Anne after the Tentacruel event. I know evolving would have probably made that fight safer, but I know I wouldn't be happy as a Raichu."

"Then that's perfectly fine" Ash said "we just have to realise that we have some limits on our progression. Now" he said turning to Nidoran "what are we going to do with you?"

Nidoran had been happier than he'd been for a long time. He had a full belly for the first time in days, he was around Pokémon that were clearly well trained with a trainer that seemed to respect their opinions. He was very surprised at their talks on evolution. Usually, trainers wanted their Pokémon to evolve, he had heard off many of his friends that trainers usually have a team picked out on who they'd end up as. When the question was asked to him though he quickly became wary.

"What do you mean?" he asked nervously looking around for any exits "what are you going to do to me?"

"With you" Charmeleon countered "Ash would never harm a Pokémon unless he had no other choice. You've done nothing to harm us, so you're safe here."

"The question still stands though" Ash said nodding "what are you doing all the way out here? Who are you, do you belong to someone, and if so, why aren't you with them? You ate like you hadn't eaten in days, you immediately looked for an exit from us which means you're running scared from someone or something. So yes, what are we going to do with you? If all you wanted was something to eat or simply shelter for the night, then none of us would have a problem with that. We do have a right to know what though."

"I ran away" Nidoran said nervously "my trainer Kyle is trying to force me to get married to a female Nidoran that his girlfriend has. Apparently, he believes that we are destined soul mates just like he is with Gina. He's an idiot. Just because I am male, and she is female doesn't mean we are destined mates."

"Ah that sucks" Ash said "well you can stay the night if you like. We leave for Celadon tomorrow though so if that's where you're from we can hand you over to Nurse Joy and explain the situation?"

"No, it's ok" Nidoran said "I'll take your offer of staying the night though. Hopefully if I stay away long enough, he'll realise why and when I return, he won't force me into this Pokémon wedding nonsense."

"Wedding?" Wartortle exclaimed "since when do Pokémon have weddings?" quietly he muttered to Ivysaur "what's a wedding?" causing everyone to laugh "what? I was expressing outrage. It's not my fault my mouth engaged before my brain."

"Ain't that the truth" Pikachu said causing further laughter.

"It's what humans do with the person they've chosen to be with for life." Ash said chuckling "They have a ceremony in front of people who witness their declarations of being together forever and then have a party to celebrate."

"Oh, that's sounds horrible" Wartortle said sympathetically. "The party sounds nice though."

"Its not all bad" Ash said thinking of his mum and dad "as long as you pick the right person to begin with that is. Well, you're welcome to spend the night here" he finished standing up and packing things away.

The next day after their training session Ash and the rest bade goodbye to Nidoran and carried on down the path towards Celadon.

"It's a shame for Nidoran" Pikachu said, "it further emphasises how right Pokémon are to fight Arceus' edicts if we're forced to stay with idiots like his trainer."

"That might be a little harsh Pi" Ash said as they walked "you can't base your opinion on them off one person being an idiot."

"It's not just one though Ash" Pikachu countered "our entire family is made up of Pokémon that belonged to idiots."

"And that I can't argue on" Ash said, "but for every one of them there's also one that will listen, that will care about their Pokémon." The conversation carried on like this for several hours, both arguing their point until Celadon City came into view. It was a beautiful looking city Ash observed from the hill they were on overlooking the city. Entering Celadon, the observed a young man and woman handing out flyers just outside the police station. Walking up to him they were about to ask him what was going on when a flyer was pushed into his hand. It was a 'missing' flyer with a Nidoran on the front.

"Oh look" Pikachu said "it's Nidoran."

"Yeah, it is Nidoran" Ash said. The trainer overheard Ash and immediately accosted him demanding to know what he knew, that was until Pikachu sparked his cheeks warningly. Calming down the trainer asked what he knew.

"You must be Kyle? And you must be Gina?" Ash asked earning surprised looks but nods nether-the-less "so you're the two idiots who are trying to force your Pokémon to marry?"

"Er" Gina said, "how do you know that?"

"Yeah" Kyle said outraged at being called an idiot. "What have you done with my Nidoran. Give him back!"

"I don't have him" Ash said getting in his face "and even if I did, I'd be very reluctant to hand him over to you."

By this time a crowd had started to gather, and a Jenny had come out to see what the commotion was.

"Oh, it's you Ash" Jenny said, "my sister told me to thank you for what you did in Viridian when she next saw you."

"Oh, it's no problem." Ash said trying to remember what happened. Pikachu quietly mentioned Team Rocket and his brain clicked into gear "that was five months ago though. How does she still remember that?"

"It's not difficult to remember a person who saved every Pokémon and the Nurse Joy from an attack" Jenny said smiling "Now what's going on here?"

"He has my Nidoran" Kyle said pointing a finger at Ash.

"No, I don't" Ash said equally as outraged.

"Then how would you know why he ran away?" Gina asked.

"I know about it because your Nidoran spent the night in my tent last night with us all." Ash said shocking them "he told us the whole thing. How you believed that you two were soul mates so it must mean your Pokémon are too simply because they're opposite sexes. You're morons, the both of you. You can't force Pokémon to be together just because you wish it were so. Anyway, we offered to bring him back here and hand him over to Nurse Joy and explain what's gone on. Nidoran told us he'd rather take his chances out on Route 7 than be forced to do something he doesn't want to do."

"He really said that?" Kyle asked confused "how would you know what he said?"

"I can communicate with Pokémon" Ash said turning away from them to Jenny "Nidoran is currently out on Route 7 hiding. He said he won't return until Kyle realises how idiotic he's being. Now, we've been traveling for days now from Saffron, my Pokémon need to see Nurse Joy. Let your sister know I said it's no problem and when I pass through Viridian on my way to the Pokémon League I'll pop in and say hello. If you need me, I'll be at the Pokémon Centre and should be for the next few days. I know this may be difficult" he said looking at Kyle and Gina "but do what you can to stop these two procreating will you?"

Ignoring the outraged gasps and laughter from the assembled crowd Ash walked off muttering about idiotic trainers and how Natural Selection isn't happening quick enough these days. Reaching the Centre, he handed his Pokémon over to Joy and checked into his room. After emailing Lt Surge about advice for Pikachu and ringing his mother to let her know he was safe he had a shower and collected his Pokémon. As it was only mid-afternoon, he decided to go for a walk. Walking down a narrow street Ash wondered where it headed, upon reaching the end though he stopped and gasped. In front of him was a huge park, full of flowers and trees. It was perhaps the most beautiful sight he had ever seen. Walking into the park Ash stopped at a vendor and bought some food and a few bottles of water before continuing on into the park. Sitting on a small mound of grass he called everyone out. Immediately Ivysaur perked up.

"This is it Ash" Ivysaur said "this is my dream. To have a garden like this to tend to."

"This is a park" Ash said chuckling "I'm not that rich Ivysaur. But I can see why you'd love a place like this."

"It reminds me of the Legend of the Secret Garden" Ivysaur said sitting down and basking in the sun.

"The Secret Garden?" Ash asked, "what's that?"

"It's a garden where Bulbasaur and Ivysaur travel to every year" Ivysaur said "its location changes every year to protect the location, but it's said that a Royal Venusaur tends to it, making it beautiful and providing the right nutrients and fauna to enable evolution. It's said a Shaymin gave up its life to protect the garden hence why its location is unknown and is powered by its sacrifice. I'd love to visit it someday."

"Oh wow" Ash said looking around "it sounds like a magical place Ivysaur. Given the luck we've had so far, I wouldn't rule out seeing it in person."

"I truly hope so" Ivysaur said wandering off into the bushes to tend to the flowers surrounding the paths. Ash lay down, pulled the cap over his eyes and decided to relax and snooze.

"Usually, I'd ask trainers to stop letting their Pokémon out in this park and to keep off the grass" a voice said from above him and lifting Ash from his fogged brain. Sitting up he noticed a woman in a pale green and red Kimono sitting on her knees. She was quite small, waif like his mum would say with jet black hair and stunning green eyes, just staring off into the distance. Ash immediately knew who she was. "But seeing your Ivysaur tend to the flowers here gives me an immense sense of joy. It's lovely to see."

Sitting up Ash looked around and indeed Ivysaur was currently in a flower bed encouraging a bud to bloom. "he's incredibly gifted with plants" Ash said "his ability Chlorophyll combined with the sun makes for an incredible combination when around plant life. I have promised him that when we're done with battles we will settle down and I'll buy him a big garden to tend to. He doesn't know it yet, but I've already been in touch with architects to build me a house in Pallet Town with a big garden that he will be allowed to design. We'll only start on that in a few years' time though. But he will have his garden."

"You would do that for a Pokémon?" Erika asked perplexed. "Truly?"

"Yes" Ash said simply "he's family. And he deserves to be able to achieve his dreams just as much as the rest of my Pokémon. I have the ability to make it happen so I will. Pikachu wants Rock types to fear him, Charmeleon has dreams of being labelled Legendary as a starter, Wartortle hasn't told me his dreams yet and Ivysaur wants a big garden to tend. And in the next few years I will have the ability to be able to provide all of that for my family."

"Hmm" Erika said observing his various Pokémon. Charmeleon was asleep at his side, Pikachu was asleep up above them on a tree branch, a Wartortle was snoozing in the big fountain and an Ivysaur pottering about in the gardens "Why in a few years?"

"At the minute I'm only eleven and still a rookie trainer" Ash said pulling two bottles of water out of his bag and handing one to Erika "but in the next year and a half I'm going to win the Pokémon League and become Champion. Once I've achieved those objectives, I plan on doing what I can to help my Pokémon achieve their goals. It's only fair. We reach our dreams together as a family. At the minute though we have a long way to go. It continues in a few days when I challenge you for your badge and win." he finished smirking around his drink.

"Is that so?" she asked giving him a look.

"Yes" Ash said simply "you're the next roadblock on our path to greatness. We've not stumbled yet and we've had some big obstacles placed in our path over the past five to six months."

"Yes" Erika said taking a drink "I've heard all about you, long before you arrived here actually. Jenny came to warn me a few months ago after the Power Plant incident that you were visiting soon and to expect trouble. She'd been warned by her sisters from every town you'd passed through. And then you were on the news in Porta Vista. You're a regular hero even if your record isn't particularly pleasing. And then not even two hours ago you had a run in with my cities Jenny. I can't say I'm particularly happy to have you here."

At Erika's words several things happened. All his Pokémon awoke from their slumber, Ivysaur came trotting back over and all of them gathered around Ash. They had clearly all been listening in and pretending to be asleep. Charmeleon stood up and growled at Erika causing her to stand up alarmed.

"Easy there Charmeleon" Ash said standing up and putting a hand on his head scratching him before addressing Erika "we've never created an issue wherever we've been, but we damn sure know how to put an end to them. We only plan on being here for a few days, and we never go looking for trouble. Should anything happen, it won't be because of anything we've caused."

"Try and keep it that way" Erika said looking warily at the fire-breathing lizard "please."

"We will" Ash said returning everyone to their Pokéballs "and we will see you in a few days." At that Ash shouldered his bag and walked away leaving a very concerned Erika to go over what just happened. Returning to her gym she was very distracted for the rest of the day, so much so her assistants told her to go to her shop and relax.

The next day Ash decided to visit a few of the places he'd read about in the brochures. In particular the Game Corner as he'd heard that rare Pokémon were on offer as prizes. Ash had never been much of a gambler but decided that as he could set a limit on how much he could spend it would do no harm trying the machines for a few hours. Walking up to the counter he exchanged his money for chips and walked around the various areas that had different types of bets going on at various tables. Watching several people burst out crying when they lost big sums, seeing how boisterous people became when they won and seeing people chucked out for not coming to terms with losing enforced his belief that this wasn't for him. Sitting down at a slot machine he decided to just enjoy the day.

It was as he was sat down at a machine that two people joined him on his right-hand side at the respective machines and began playing. Their conversation between themselves was innocuous enough. It was as they were beginning to run out of chips that the conversation turned serious.

"Are we still on for the event in two days?"

"Yeah, we're on. The boss wants us all to be here for eight in the evening where we will be given more directions."

"Why so late?"

"He wants everything to go smoothly. Plus, the Safari Zone will be empty of trainers by then leaving us all free to help ourselves. The boss has a surprise for anyone that tries to interfere."

"Well let's hope he's in a better mood now the dust has settled down from Pokémon Land. Whatever happened there has cost him billions of Pokédollars. Emptying the Safari Zone gives him a lot of Pokémon to sell to help pay off the lawsuits. The gig we have set up here doesn't bring him anywhere near what that did but it's a steady stream for him."

"How do you know that?"

"My sister is a secretary for one of his admins."

"Ah right. I still can't believe people don't know these machines and tables are rigged".

"Shush. You never know who's listening in."

"Who cares? And for that matter why are we wasting our money on them when we know they don't pay out?"

"Because you imbecile we have to keep up appearances. If the real customers knew that they had no actual chance of winning, they wouldn't come back. Seeing us win lets them believe they have a chance. Now come on, we only have half an hour left of our break."

Standing up the two men left leaving a very intrigued Ash and Pikachu who exchanged their remaining chips for money and left to go back to their room. Heading upstairs Ash talked with Pikachu about what was said.

"Ash, if you tell someone then they'll know you were behind Pokémon Lands destruction. You're not supposed to know who owns that park. You cannot mention Team Rocket."

"Pi," Ash said "I can come up with a story about that. I don't have to say that I know who the boss is, just that the boss of Pokémon Land is also the boss of the Game Corner and he's planning something to recoup his losses."

"Well, be careful of what you say" Pikachu warned him.

Nodding Ash placed a call to Lance on the video phone. Seeing his image pop up Ash said hello.

"Ash! I'm just in a meeting with the other Elites at the minute. Is everything ok?" Lance said

"No, I'm afraid I've just overheard something I don't think I should have. But I promised my mum and Professor Oak that I would let the right people sort issues out after what happened at Porta Vista and wouldn't get involved directly if I had a choice." Ash replied.

"I'll put you on speaker phone then if that's ok?" Lance asked. Doing it anyway Ash told them all of what he'd overheard. When he finished, he sat back and waited.

"Are you certain of this Ash?" Bruno's voice asked.

"Yes. Two days' time, eight pm at Celadon Game Corner. Whoever owns Pokémon Land also owns the Game Corner and is planning a raid on the Safari Zone to recoup the losses he suffered with its destruction by selling all the Pokémon they loot. That's all I overheard."

"It ties in with the intel we received this morning Lance" Bruno's voice said, "we knew something was happening, now we know the time and location we can plan for it."

"There's always the chance they were lying" Agatha said "I know grunts are thick, but they surely couldn't be that thick to say all this where anyone could be listening in."

"From my perspective they didn't know I was listening in" Ash said, "however it was a loud enough conversation where it could have been staged."

"It all depends on if they knew who you were Ash and if you had a way of communicating with us" Lorelei said "after what happened in Porta Vista you're pretty recognisable now. And you were seen with us at the hospital so it could have been staged as a way to misinform us to flush out our agents."

"That's a stretch" Lance said, "but it's entirely possible."

"Look" Ash said interrupting "I've told you what I heard. That's all I could do. I'll be in Celadon until Monday night so if you need help, I'll be here."

"Thank you for the information, Ash" Lance said "but we will deal with it. Try and stay out of the way, I don't want to have to deal with your mum again so soon" he finished laughing "I do enough of that already now Melanie has asked her to be a bridesmaid."

"No worries" Ash said holding up his hands "I will stay out of the way for this one. Now, I have a badge to win tomorrow, and I want to go over strategies with my Pokémon. It was nice talking to you all." With that Ash hung up and turned to face Pikachu "happy?"

"I'm not unhappy" Pikachu replied yawning "ring your mum and let her know that you've made a good decision." He finished cheekily before closing his eyes and falling asleep on the pillow. Deciding to just that he rang his mum and told her of his decision to stay out of trouble. While he knew it was a good decision he still wanted to help where he could but his mum telling him he'd made the right decision made him tear up.

"I'm proud of you Ash" Delia said smiling "I know it's hard, but you can't help everyone, and you shouldn't interfere if you don't need to. Lance and his team are trained for these things, you're not. And interfering could hinder them so please, stay away from the Game Corner that night."

"I will mum" Ash said before getting ready to hang up.

"Oh, before you go" Delia said "Silph and I have been in contact over the last few days. We've reached an agreement with them about sponsoring you. It's not the 20% we asked for though."

"We never thought we would get that" Ash said leaning back "and when I spoke to the president, I told him it was negotiable. So, what did we get?"

"We got 12%" Delia said, "however we have incentives added to the contract that means they rise to 16%."

"What incentives?" Ash asked perplexed.

"Total sales of books and merchandise, revenue earned from their sales, positions you attain etc." Delia said "There's quite a few Ash, but the upshot of it is if you win a league it goes to 14%, attain Champion status in the next five to ten years then you get 16%, with the add-ons being extras. If you don't then it stays at 12% with add-ons being extra. It's the best deal they've ever offered a rookie trainer Ash. For now, should you sign it they own the rights to everything you've already done and will do for the next ten years and will start mass publishing everything you've done."

"And I start making money straight away?" Ash asked confused.

"Yes" Delia said "it's not going to be a huge amount as they're academic texts but it's better than nothing. They really want to sell your book on Aura, but we stayed firm on that. It's going to be free for a year with them publishing it. After that though they have the license and can sell it for profit."

"Thank you, mum." Ash said, "should I sign it then?"

"I think you should yes" Delia said "while I'm not happy about you being owned, the doors it opens for you are incredible. And aside from a few dates you're required to attend functions you're free to roam and do what you please. And this is only for ten years Ash. By the time you're 21 you'll be free to sign for anyone else and negotiate a better deal with Silph should you want to. Essentially, you sign this, and you're set for life after ten years."

"Then I'll sign it" Ash said smiling "and I can start planning future projects."

"Oh dear" Delia said smiling humorously "what do you have planned now?"

Frowning Ash wondered if he should tell his mum everything he'd been thinking about. Seeing his face Delia became concerned. "Ash?"

"Can I arrange a call with you and Sam for tomorrow night? I promise it's nothing bad but I need both your input on this."

"I'll ring him and ask him. Can you not give me any hints?"

"I plan on becoming Champion mum." Ash said "But I have no desire to spend my time living at the League in the apartments Blue has to stay at. I wondered about building a house in Pallet, or at least on the outskirts of the town."

"Oh" Delia said shocked, "you know I don't plan on kicking you out Ash?"

"I do" he replied "but I'm growing up mum. Soon I'll be an adult and I'll need my own space, plus I need a place I can train my Pokémon without making a racket and disturbing the people in Pallet Town."

"That's very true" Delia said frowning "I'll speak to Sam and get his input. We have years yet before you move out, so we have time."

"Thanks mum" Ash said relieved "it's something that's been on my mind for a few months now."

"No worries, Ash" Delia said before hanging up. As it was still sunny out Ash decided to take a wander outside. He read a few of the brochures from before and decided he needed to buy his mum something. Heading down a few streets he saw the perfect place. Entering a shop called Scent-sations, he was immediately hit with various scents that made him violently sneeze. Rushing back outside he waited for the sneezing fit to subside before warily entering his eyes still streaming. Ignoring the disapproving looks he was getting from the assistant Ash made his way around the shop looking for the right gift after ten minutes of looking at the various descriptions the assistant came over.

"You've been in here for ten minutes now just wandering" the assistant said snobbily "are you buying something or not? Can you even afford to buy these?"

"I was planning on doing so yeah" Ash said giving her a look "I'm starting to regret coming in here though given how much of an arse you're being. Are you always this polite to your customers?"

"How dare you!" she screeched "I've half a mind to have you banned from the shop for that comment."

"Then do so" Ash said laughing "I can buy any of these at the department store, I came in here to buy my mum a gift and thought she'd love some perfume. If I knew it came with a free bitch though I would have taken my custom elsewhere."

"That's it!" she said "Out. And never come back."

"No problem" Ash said laughing as the door slammed behind him. Going into the department store he bought his mum her favourite perfume, sent it off with the local Post-Pidgeot and went back to his room still laughing.

"What's going on?" Erika asked coming out of the back room "Amelia, what's all the commotion?"

"I've just had the rudest customer I've ever met" Amelia said still red in the face at the insult "first off, he walks in, takes a look around and then walks back out. Then a minute later he comes in and keeps picking things up off the shelves before putting them back. Then I ask him if he plans on buying anything and he calls me a bitch! I've never been so insulted in my life."

"Oh wow, I'm sorry to hear that" Erika said frowning "can you describe him to me? We'll ban him from the shop."

"He was around five foot five, brown hair, weird blue eyes and looked quite fit for his age." Amelia said recalling him "Oh and he had a Pikachu with him that was a strange colour."

Sighing Erika turned away and went to retrieve a newspaper she kept from a few weeks ago with a picture of Ash on the front. Handing it over to Amelia, she asked her "Is this him?"

"Yes, it is!" she replied still visibly angry.

"I'll deal with it." Erika said "you shut the shop. Have a good night, Amelia." Leaving, Erika walked back to her house wondering why Ash had been so rude to Amelia. He had told her he would be challenging the gym tomorrow so she would speak to him then. She couldn't abide rudeness.

Chapter 20: Chapter 20-

Chapter Text

Chapter 20- The arrogance of some people

The next day Ash and Pikachu went through their usual routine. Lt Surge had finally replied and given them several pointers so hopefully they would help. Around lunchtime Ash and Pi walked to the gym and chatted about the upcoming battle.

Entering the gym Ash handed his Pokédex over to the receptionist. Unsure of the looks he was getting from the various assistants Ash sat down and waited for his name to be called. Picking up a magazine after half an hour he read it twice. After an hour he was starting to lose patience. Walking up to the receptionist he asked

"Erika does know I'm here, right?"

"Yes, she does. She's very busy at the minute though" the receptionist said before turning around and carrying on with her conversation with the girl next to her. Sitting back down Ash waited for another twenty minutes before he finally had enough and walked back up to the receptionist and said "what is going on? I've been here an hour and a half now."

"As I said Erika is very busy." The receptionist said snottily "maybe stop bitching and wait your turn."

It was the comment that made everything click for Ash "Ah I see what's going on" he said laughing taking out his Pokégear and ringing Professor Oak.

"Hi Sam" he said putting him on speakerphone "we seem to have another issue with me challenging a gym. This time though it's not the leader that's refusing a battle, it's the receptionist."

"What do you mean Ash?" he asked.

"Well, I gave the receptionist my Pokédex an hour and a half ago" Ash said "No one has left so there's not been a battle before me, and no one has come in after me. I've asked a few times what's going on and been told to wait. This time though the receptionist used a particular word. She used the word 'Bitch'. A word I happened to use last night to a woman who kicked me out of her shop after she was rude to me. So, I sense that this particular receptionist is a friend of hers and is taking the piss."

Sighing Sam said "I'll ring Erika, and I'll get back to you" before he hung up.

Smiling at the horrified women he said, "this should be enlightening shouldn't it." Before sitting back down and watched as the receptionist frantically typed away on her computer. After a few minutes the phone rang, and the receptionist tentatively picked it up and answered it in a quiet tone. After hanging up she looked at Ash and said, "you can go in now, Erika is ready for you."

"You know what, I think I'll wait here and let Erika see what it's like to have the piss taken out of her." Ash said smiling.

"Please Mr Ketchum" she said through gritted teeth "Erika is waiting."

"You're lucky I have things to do today" Ash said coldly standing up and walking through to the arena.

"Mr Ketchum" Erika said standing on her side "welcome to Celadon Gym."

"Can we get on with this?" Ash asked "your receptionist has just made me waste an hour and a half over something that didn't involve her. I had plans for this afternoon after our battle."

"Yes" Erika said frowning and looking into the stands "I heard from Amelia what you said to her. Your comments were entirely unnecessary."

"What was unnecessary was her behaviour" Ash retorted "I am allergic to some variants of incense and had a sneezing fit as soon as I entered that shop due to what was being burned at the time. I could barely see what I was picking up due to the allergic reaction I was having. Then she comes and asks me whether I can afford to buy anything from the shop in the first place because I was struggling to read the descriptions. I was in there to buy my mother a gift, not to be sneered at by an assistant who needs re-training on her customer service. Now, as I said I've had half my afternoon wasted already. Shall we have the battle?"

Sighing Erika looked over to where Amelia was sitting, her face hidden by her hair as she looked down but clearly bright red "I shall deal with the situation later. Referee if you would?" Ash and Erika walked up to their platforms.

"This will be a three-on-three battle, substitutions are allowed from both sides." The referee said "the first one to lose all of their sides Pokémon loses. Leader Erika, you will release your Pokémon first.

"Come on out Tangela" Erika said releasing a short green Pokémon, whose vines covered its entire body.

Pointing Dexter at it, it beeped.

"Tangela, Pokedex Number 114, The Vine Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. Its identity is obscured by masses of thick, blue vines. The vines are said to never stop growing."

"Very strange" Ash muttered as he threw a pokeball "let's go Wartortle."

"You're using a water type in a grass gym?" Erika asked confused.

"Yup" Ash said "Wartortle get in close. Use your Water Gun to propel you forwards."

Hiding his feet in his shell Wartortle did just that and shot forwards at an alarming speed.

"Tangela, that's Aqua Jet, use Stun Spore all around you" shaking its vines the Tangela released a yellow spore up into the air that settled around it in ten-foot dome.

"And here I was thinking I was being original." Ash muttered before shouting "Wartortle apparently that's called Aqua Jet. Power through, we've trained against Ivysaur doing just this. When you reach it use Ice Punch."

Quicker than the Tangela could react it was thrown backwards from Wartortle's attack and landed twenty feet away, the yellow dome exploded and dissipated. Wartortle however came out of its shell and went down onto one knee as a yellow plume came out of its mouth as it breathed.

"Damn" Ash said "Paralysis. Wartortle we likely only have a couple more shots before you become incapacitated. Aqua Jet and Ice Punch."

Centering himself Wartortle did just that and launched himself forwards to Tangela who had just righted itself and shook its vines of the frost that had accumulated.

"Tangela" Delia cried "It's paralysed so it will be slower. Grab it with your vines and use Slam."

Sadly, Erika was right, and it had just enough time to send out four thick vines that wrapped around a helpless Wartortle before being smashed into the ground repeatedly. After the fourth time it threw Wartortle away where he landed and struggled to get to his feet. "Slam one last time Tangela" Erika shouted.

"Wartortle retreat into your shell and use Blizzard" Ash shouted desperately. Immediately Wartortle reacted and out of the five holes came a massive amount of frost that hit everything it touched. Unfortunately for Tangela the vines that were wrapped around Wartortle were the first to get hit before the attack smashed into it causing it to retract the vines as it fainted. Wartortle came out of its shell clearly exhausted, gave Ash a thumbs up before he too fainted.

"Both Pokémon have been knocked out. This time the challenger will release his Pokémon first" the referee said as Ash released Ivysaur.

"Victreebel come on out" Erika said as a huge green flycatcher came out of the ball causing the spectators to mutter. Wondering what was going on Ash asked.

"You see Ash, once you reached four badges you're no longer classed as a Rookie trainer. You're now an advanced trainer until you reach the eighth badge where you're then classed as Intermediate. And as such in a gym battle the leader can choose to use one Pokémon that is better than a rookie but not as strong as their Elites. Victreebel is just that. He evolved about a month ago and needs battle experience as a Victreebel. He's already pretty well seasoned so don't underestimate him."

Pointing Dexter at it he bleeped.

"Victreebel, Pokedex Number 71, The Flycatcher Pokémon, and the evolved form of Weepingbell. This Pokémon is male. Said to live in huge colonies deep in jungles, although no one has ever returned from there."

"Hmmm, so a very good challenge for us then Ivysaur. Don't underestimate them, Wartortle just drew with her Tangela. Let's get in close and use Body Slam" Ivysaur ran towards the stationery Victreebel.

"Razor Leaf Victreebel" Erika cried as it released eight sharp leaves and launched them at Ivysaur. Ivysaur was hit several times, scoring lines on his body before he reached the Victreebel and smashed into him sending it flying backwards where it used its Vines to stabilise itself. Panting Ivysaur charged again but Victreebel kept pirouetting out of the way, frustrating the smaller plant.

"Ivysaur stop charging. It's tiring you out and you won't win doing that. Use Vine Whip and throw it across the battlefield."

"Use Vine Whip too Victreebel" Erika cried as they both used the same attack, trying to move each other causing a stalemate as they both pulled against each other. After thirty seconds of this Ash had an idea.

"Ivysaur, quickly slacken your vines and run forwards" before Victreebel could react Ivysaur did just that causing the bigger plant to fall on its back as the grip slackened. Just as it righted itself it was smashed into by a charging Ivysaur causing it to be thrown back as its vines retracted. "don't let up Ivysaur, use Vine Whip and slam it into the ground." Ivysaur released four thick vines and wrapped them around Victreebel and repeatedly smashed it into the ground before throwing it across the floor where it struggled to right itself. Just as it did it was smashed into again and went flying into the wall knocked out.

"Well done, Ivysaur" Ash said "that's what I'm talking about. We wait for the opponent to make a mistake and capitalise. One more Pokémon to face now." Crying its name Ivysaur walked back to Ash side before turning around and facing Erika who was recalling Victreebel.

"Congratulations Ash" Erika said smiling "you have proved you know how to battle. But you don't have the empathy my final Pokémon and I have with your Pokémon. We have a much deeper bond than you can ever hope to have. Come on out Gloom."

"Did she say what I think she just said?" Ash asked Pikachu who looked equally as offended as he pointed Dexter at it

"Gloom, The Weed Pokémon the Pokedex Number 44 and the evolved form of Oddish. This Pokémon is female. What appears to be drool is actually sweet honey. It is very sticky and clings stubbornly if touched."

"I was going to try and go easier on you for the last match-up" Ash said looking at Erika as he recalled Ivysaur "but you've pissed me off now. Let's go Pikachu."

"Oh?" Erika asked smirking "it's simply the truth."

"Pi, give me your light ball." Pikachu did just that before running onto the field "Charge Pikachu."

"Gloom, let's win this, use Acid" Erika cried.

"Dodge and keep charging Pikachu" Ash said, "I'll tell you when to attack."

For the next minute Pikachu kept dodging and charging until he was soon too bright to look at.

"You can't dodge forever Ash" Erika said "Gloom, use Stun Spore."

"Pikachu come back here and face it." Pikachu did that and turned and faced Gloom, electricity arcing off it in every direction so much that the Stun Spore dissipated on contact.

"Volt Tackle" Ash simply said as he turned around and began walking down the steps onto the field. The crowd was very puzzled that Ash did that as it was highly disrespectful to just assume you'd won. That changed though as a lightning bolt streaked across the field, faster than anything they'd ever seen before and seemingly went through the stationary weed Pokémon. There seemed to be a delayed reaction as the electricity caught up with Gloom and it was thrown in a straight line through the air and embedded into the wall.

"Gloom is unable to battle. Ash and Pikachu wins" seemed academic to say from the referee.

The crowd were stunned into silence. Many of them had seen a lot of battles over the years, a lot of them were Erika's friends and had watched her for years but none of them had ever seen such a devastating attack used, with such nonchalance and arrogance. Everyone heard Ash's next words as Pikachu jumped onto Ash's shoulder.

"You told me in the park that you'd read about me in the paper which means you know what happened two months ago. Pikachu and I faced certain death at Porta Vista. Both of us knew the chances of us surviving was very slim but we still faced that 50 foot Tentacruel knowing that defeat was not an option. Do not, ever accuse us of having no bond. Now, I've wasted my afternoon here and been insulted twice. Just give me my badge and I'll leave."

Erika was on autopilot as she threw down the badge, still looking at her Gloom who was being helped out of the wall by her assistants. Taking it and not saying a word Ash walked out and headed to the Pokémon Centre to get his Pokémon healed. Handing over Ivysaur and Wartortle Ash was still full of pent-up frustration and headed to the gym to work off some frustration. After he had calmed down somewhat, he recovered his Pokémon from Joy and went for an evening stroll.

"You're still thinking about what Erika said aren't you?" Pikachu asked as they all sat down on a bench in the park.

"Yes" Ash said looking around "we all nearly died Pikachu saving Porta Vista from their own stupidity. By rights we shouldn't even be here yet, we should be still in the hospital. I think Mew healed us, why I don't know but it doesn't take away the fact we shouldn't be alive. I know the rest of you feel the same way too."

"I didn't hear what she actually said" Charmeleon said "what was so bad about it?"

"She said we don't have the empathy and bond together that she does with her Gloom" Ivysaur said "I'm just sorry I never had the chance to make the statement Pikachu did."

"And for that I apologise" Ash said looking at him "I wasn't thinking clearly, we had our time wasted by her receptionist, then she tried to have a go at us because of her assistants' actions last night and then to cap it all of she said that. I just wanted to leave before I said something I would end up regretting but you deserved the opportunity to make that statement yourself and I stopped that with my actions, so you have my apologies."

"Thank you for saying that Ash" Ivysaur said nodding "I get why you did it, even if I'm not happy with it. All that matters is that the point was made by a member of our family."

After a few minutes of silence Ash remembered something. "Damn, I forgot to get Eevee off mum while we were here. Remind me when we get back to get her off mum."

"We're still here for a few more days yet, right?" Wartortle asked "you could get her for a few days. I like Eevee, she's nice."

"Something I should know?" Ash teased getting an angry look in return "only joking."

"No" Wartortle said "but I need to talk to her, and I know I can count on her to tell me straight about things. I still remember the conversation I had with her before we got to Vermillion about holding on to my anger. She's always been straight with me, and I appreciate it."

"She certainly is straightforward" Charmeleon said laughing "I can't tell you the number of times she nagged me on the SS Anne about my attitude. But she was right every time. It was her I talked to after our disagreement after Power Plant."

"She's become a great little sister" Pikachu chimed in.

"She has" Ivysaur said standing up "so let's go retrieve her. She'll love this place."

Standing up Ash recalled everyone and headed back to the centre. Reaching the entrance of the park Ash became aware that he was being followed. Muttering "six o'clock Pi, were being followed. Let me know if you see anyone."

"Can't see anyone yet Ash" Pikachu muttered as he looked around from Ash shoulder "there, but it was just a glimpse of something."

"It's two people Pikachu" Ash said as they walked along the road "they've disappeared off my radar now because there's too many people around. But we're being followed by someone."

"Rocket?" Pikachu asked.

"Could very well be." Ash said "We know there's something happening tomorrow, and we suspect we've been set up to hear that conversation. On the other hand, this could be unrelated, and we have fans so it could be them stalking us."

"It's lucky we're getting Eevee then isn't it." Pikachu said, "her nose is better than mine at associating scents."

Nodding Ash carried onto the Pokémon centre where he talked to his mum about the day's events. She agreed to send Eevee over for the next few days as she would be at the League building anyway due to the wedding plans. "I'll send her back the day after tomorrow mum." Ash said before he hung up. Ash decided they all deserved a treat, so he walked back out to a restaurant he had found the day before. Catching up with Eevee was really fun. Walking back from the restaurant Ash felt the presence again. "They're back Pi. Eevee, can you get the scent of the two people that are following us?"

Dropping to the ground Ash pretended to be tying his shoelace while Eevee picked up their scent. When she jumped back onto his shoulder Ash made his way back to the centre and into his room before releasing everyone.

"Pi and I felt someone following us earlier on when we were coming back from the park before their auras were lost in the sea of people milling about the city. Tonight, we felt them again and I asked Eevee to pick up their scent. Tomorrow, we go hunting for them. I want to know why were still being stalked by someone. So, we're all going to rest up tonight, tomorrow we get our answers."

Receiving nods of agreement Eevee described what she could to the rest before they settled in for the evening. Eevee and Wartortle went off to a corner to talk while the rest just chilled out. Wartortle seemed to get the answer he was looking for as he looked a lot happier as he came back over.

"How are you doing Eevee?" Ash asked flicking through the tv channels. "how's mum been?"

"The second question is the hardest answer, so I'll start with that." Eevee said after a few moments of thinking "Your mum is fine. She's still very worried about you, she nearly lost you Ash. I don't think she'd have been around much longer should you have died."

"What?" Ash asked turning to face her as the room grew quiet. "What do you mean?"

"Ash, you're her only child" Eevee said patiently "and while I adore her, I know that she would sacrifice everybody in the world, including all of us if it meant you survived. I don't think you understand just what you put her through in Porta Vista."

"Of course, I do!" Ash said looking at Eevee bewildered "that's why I agreed to her demands after the incident. I know what happened hurt her."

"Then you should understand why I'm right" Eevee said "your mum nearly lost everything that day Ash. Everything. And doing what you did, while heroic wouldn't have changed the fact she'd have had no one left in this world if you'd died. I'm not going to go on about it, as Delia has told you how she felt. It's only because you asked me that I told you. But your mum isn't doing great."

"I think I need to speak to her" Ash said standing up and heading to the phone and calling his mum.

"Hi Ash" Delia said looking confused. After all she'd only spoken to him earlier that day. "what's wrong?"

"I think we need to talk" Ash said as he picked up the receiver. Clearly what needed to be said was private, so the rest of the gang began talking amongst themselves. An hour later a teary Ash made his way back to the bed and observed them all chatting away. When there was a lull in the conversation Ash said "thank you Eevee. It means a lot to me that you look out for her, for us even."

"It's ok" Eevee said smiling "sometimes we all need a little help."

"Given what we've just been discussing it sounds like you need help" Charmeleon said "so, talk."

Laughing Eevee shook her head and said "I've been thinking about evolving. I just don't know what into."

"Oh wow" Ash said, "what's brought this on?"

"I've been feeling strange since we left each other in Vermillion. Every time I train I can feel a build-up of energy inside me wanting to be released but the everstone kicks in and stops it. It is getting really frustrating not being able to complete the process. It also leaves me feeling really tired."

"Oh ok" Ash said heading over to the computer. Switching it on he looked up Eevee and the evolutions of her. Printing off seven different pictures with information on them he carried them back over to the bed and placed them all there. "Which ones shall we eliminate?"

"Well first of all there's eight Ash" Pikachu said sternly "don't deny Eevee a choice because you don't like psychics."

"Oh damn" Ash said "I'm so sorry Eevee. Whenever I see a psychic type I go on autopilot and my mind blanks them out." Walking back over he printed off the last choice and placed them there. "Now I have most stones available to help you in my pack. All but a Thunderstone but I can buy one from the department store here should you need it. So, let's eliminate the ones you don't want, however we want reasons why. Don't dismiss them off hand because of things you've heard."

Over the next half an hour Eevee eliminated Jolteon, Flareon, Vaporeon and Leafeon.

"That leaves Espeon, Umbreon, Glaceon and Sylveon" Ash said "now, I have no idea how you evolve into Sylveon but I can ask Professor Oak if he has any contacts in Kalos with information on them. The information we can read here just says high friendship and a fairy type move but you already know them. Glaceon I can buy an Ice Rock for you. Espeon and Umbreon are based on training in the day or night respectively with high friendship. I'm going to go out on a limb and say we have the friendship part covered." He finished laughing.

"We sure do" Eevee said looking at the four. "Glaceon doesn't feel right. I can't explain why though. Something about the friendship evolutions is drawing me in."

"Then it's one of them" Wartortle said "don't fight what you know your feelings are telling you to be true. Personally I already have an idea what you're going to evolve into. I'm pretty sure the rest of us do too but it's your decision."

"Really?" Eevee said looking at them all. "What do you mean you already know?"

"When you think about it, it's obvious" Ivysaur said as he walked away "I suggest you take some time to think it over though. I don't want to influence your thoughts."

"Ivysaur is correct" Ash said packing up the pieces of paper but moving the three choices to the table "we all know what your choice will be, but it's your decision to make. And should we be wrong then we'll happily go along with your choice."

"Even if it's Espeon?" Eevee asked looking up worried.

Sighing Ash took a moment before he answered "I'm not going to lie to you and say I would prefer your choice to be one of the other two. We all know my feelings on psychics. However, I have nothing against psychic Pokémon, they were born to be who they are. And should you choose Espeon I will back you 100% Eevee. I promise you that. You will always be family to us all no matter what. Now, it's time for bed. I'll just email Sam about Sylveons and we'll go from there. Your everstone still works so we have plenty of time to work things out. I need to ring Sam, and mum tomorrow anyway about a project I have in mind. I'll tell you all more about that once I have more information. Now, sleep time."

The next day Ash called his mum and Sam up around 10:30 to talk with them both about his house project.

"The issue is Ash Pallet Town is considered a place of outstanding beauty, so the government and the Board of Outstanding Natural Beauty is going to be very reluctant to let anyone build here. The ranch I live in isn't owned by me, it's owned by the league and as such they maintain the grounds and the surrounding countryside. The forest land here houses thousands, possibly millions of different species of wildlife, not counting the wild Pokémon that roam around.

Then there's the tourism that will be brought in should you become champion. That's going to have a significant impact on the area too which will have to be taken into account. Some of the paths will have to be restructured to be able to accommodate the traffic, the roads will need to be resurfaced. It's a massive undertaking Ash. And all this is even before you find a piece of land to build on."

"Which is why I'm glad I asked you" Ash said sitting back after taking all of that in "I want to make Pallet my home permanently as I have no desire to live at the league. And Pallet Town has always been quiet and peaceful."

"Which will change when you become champion" Sam said seriously "your sponsorship with Silph will put you on the map, becoming champion will triple your notoriety."

"I found a place when I was young that has always stuck in my mind." Ash said "it's not in Pallet Town, but it is on the outskirts of town. Do you remember where I first saw Riley professor?"

"Ah yes I do" Sam said thinking "that might work as it's in an open area but still not easily accessible. And it won't mean digging up any areas in Pallet Town. Of course, that all depends on how big a house you want."

"I've sent mum the house I'd like along with the budget I'm willing to spend. It's not massive by any means, but the requirements could make it big." Ash said "could you take mum there in the next few weeks to let her look it over? That way she can get the lawyers on the case too to get the legalities sorted."

"Certainly Ash" Sam said smiling "Oh, and I'm sending you the information you asked for last night. Professor Juniper came through for you on this one."

"Oh?" Delia asked "what's this?"

"Oh" Ash said "I thought Eevee would have talked with you about it already. She wants to evolve but didn't know into what, so we went through them all last night and narrowed it down to three. We all think we know what she'll choose but she needs information on Sylveon before choosing between that Espeon and Umbreon."

"Ah yes" Delia said smiling "I knew something was wrong. And out of those three I know myself what she'll choose but I'm glad you're letting her have all the information before she chooses."

"It is pretty obvious really knowing what she's like" Ash said, "oh by the way did Blue tell you about tonight's event professor?"

"He did" Sam said "and I want you to promise me you'll stay away. You did well informing the authorities but let them handle it."

Holding his hands up Ash said "I have no plans on interfering. I plan to take my Pokémon out to a restaurant and come back here to find everything over with."

"Good" Delia said giving him a look "make sure you do. I need to go, I'm being picked up soon by Melanie."

After hanging up Ash decided to go for a walk after dinner and spent the rest of the day just exploring the city. It was something he found he quite enjoyed doing, getting lost always lets you find new places you've never heard of. Walking back towards the Pokémon centre Ash spotted a restaurant directly next to the Game Corner. "I think we found our restaurant for tonight Pi" Ash said smirking.

"Funny that isn't it" Pikachu said dryly "you plan on watching tonight's events up close and personal then?"

"Yes" Ash said smiling "whilst also keeping my promise to my mother and Sam."

"I'm saying nothing" Eevee said from his other shoulder "you know your mum will find out though."

"I know" Ash said, "but I'm not getting involved."

That evening Ash made sure to carry his smaller bag full of potions and medicines with him when he left the centre. Getting to the restaurant at 7:00pm Ash ordered his Pokémon food and happily ate their meal. Around 7:30pm Ash noticed that a steady stream of people was entering the Game Corner that were behaving very shifty, but he pretended to ignore them and kept up a steady stream of conversation with Pikachu and Eevee. At 7:45pm the stream of people had stopped, and it was now the waiting game. It was as the last few entered that Eevee piped up.

"Ash, the last two are the ones who have been following us."

"Oh right" Ash said getting a good look at them. It was a man and a woman, possibly early twenties. The woman was fairly tall with blonde hair, wearing a long blue coat over a dark blue dress. The man had green hair and was wearing a black jumper and faded jeans. "Hmm, I've seen them before somewhere, but I don't know where."

"They've been around the city over the last few days" Pikachu said, "it's definitely them Eevee?"

"Yup" she replied while eating an apple slice.

"Ash Ketchum. It's been a while, what are you doing here?" a voice said making Ash look up. It was, to his surprise Brock.

"Brock man!" Ash said standing up shaking his hand and pulling a chair out "how've you been pal, what are you doing here?"

"Oh, I'm on a tour of the cities." He said happily taking a seat and ordering a drink "There's a breeding convention in a few weeks at Scissor Street so I'm just passing through. How about you?"

"Before I answer that" Ash said releasing Ivysaur "Ivysaur, Pikachu, if anyone rushes out of the building use Sleep Powder and Thunder Wave on them. We wouldn't want them to get away now, would we? Anyway Brock, I'm still doing the gym challenge. I beat Erika yesterday for my fifth badge. I would have been here earlier, but I took a month off to spend time with my mum on the SS Anne and then i spent a month recovering from Porta Vista."

Confused at the orders Brock warily went with the conversation "Oh yeah, I heard about that. How are you holding up?"

"I've been better" Ash said admitting for the first time that he wasn't ok "It's been tough to be honest, but Eevee set me straight last night and I finally talked about it all properly with my mum and it's helped a lot. Nearly dying does something to you Brock, it changes your outlook and has a way of putting things into perspective. But it can also blind you to other people's feelings on the matter. Hopefully we can all move forward now."

"I'm glad" Brock said happily "if you ever need to chat to someone just message me, you have my number."

"Thanks Brock" Ash said, "it's much appreciated."

"So" Brock said looking around "what's going on?"

Before he could answer though a voice from behind him said "why am I not surprised to find you here Ash?" Brock and Ash turned to see Blue Oak giving Ash a pointed glare.

"Well," Ash said smiling "I've promised my mum that I would stay out of what's been planned here tonight. And I am doing. I just happened to find a café close by to observe."

"That better be all you do Ash" Blue said warningly "I have no desire to face your mum's wrath again so soon. Hi Brock, what brings you here pal?"

"Well, I'm on my way to a convention" Brock said confused at seeing the champion "how about you?"

"Well as Ash was about to tell you, there's a raid planned here in the next twenty minutes. We have reason to believe a certain group of criminals are holed up inside" Blue said, "Ash on the other hand is to keep his nose out of this and let the professionals handle it."

"As I said Blue" Ash said glaring at him "I gave my mum and your dad my word that I wouldn't interfere and I'm not. But should any of them manage to escape Ivysaur and Pikachu will be ready to do their civic duty, as am I."

"That remains to be seen" Blue said looking at his watch.

"Who's guarding the Safari Zone?" Ash asked.

"Lance and the other Elite Four" Blue said looking at his watch again. Standing up he whistled. In under thirty seconds there was twenty people on him. "We are a go people. Hold nothing back. I want their bosses head on a platter" Blue said before looking at Ash "this one's personal."

At that Blue and his team entered the Game Corner from which shouts and screams could be heard and Ash and Brock stood up as they watched customers flee. Facing the game corner Ash and Brock waited. Releasing a Golem, Onix and a Graveler Brock gave them instructions to engage anyone that looked suspicious. The next hour or so was very tense as people started to exit the game corner covered in dust and debris wearing Team Rocket outfits. They obviously never expected to be hit in the face with Sand or Sleep powders. Soon enough Ash had a few people moved to a barrier Golem and Onix had set up. An hour later the G-Men started to lead people out of the building in hand cuffs, defeat evident on their faces. From seemingly nowhere reporters had also arrived on the scene. News spread fast it seemed.

During the operation several Jenny's had turned up with vans waiting to arrest the people caught. So Ash and Brock helped load the stunned or asleep people that had tried to escape into the vans. Soon there was around thirty-five people loaded into the vans as Blue came out looking angry. Looking at Ash helping Jenny he didn't say anything as he instructed his team to head back to the league for a de-briefing. Once they had all cleared the way Blue approached Ash and Brock who were putting the last guy in the van. Speaking to Jenny first he said

"The leader wasn't there and the admins in charge teleported out with three others as soon as we gate-crashed their party. Thirty-five isn't a bad haul and I've left a few men behind raiding their cabinets and drawers for any information. As of this minute Game Corner is shut until further notice by order of the League. We will let you know when it can re-open. Thank you for your assistance Jenny and be sure to tell your team that too. Some of my people will be arriving later on tonight and early tomorrow to take them to the league for interrogation. Brock, Ash come with me."

Walking across the street so they wouldn't be overheard Blue rounded on Ash "I thought I made it perfectly clear that you were not to interfere in this operation."

"And I didn't" Ash retorted "I simply gave Jenny a hand putting the people into the van as did Brock. We didn't enter the building, we stayed outside. We didn't battle anyone, we stayed outside. We didn't cause a scene; we stayed outside and assisted the Jennys."

"Then why are there people covered in sand, paralysed and asleep?" Blue asked looking at them both.

"We made sure that the Jennys had no resistance." Brock said confused and getting a bit angry "None of them were hurt because of what we did. Every single one we caught were loaded safely onto the vans and not one officer complained. You are literally the only one complaining about offering them assistance. If we were random members of the public who gave them aid would you be talking to us like this? No, I think not. So why are you being an arse with us?"

"Because of me" Ash said simply earning a look from Brock "Blue can't stand to see anyone take away something he believes are his achievements. He and my father were rivals and my father beat him the day after he became champion to take his place. My father then mysteriously disappeared eleven years ago, and Blue took his place back extraordinarily quickly."

"As I told your mum, I had nothing to do with Reds disappearance Ash" Blue said looking furious "he was my best friend!"

"And he disappeared because you didn't obey an order from Lance" Ash retorted "and then less than two weeks later you're champion again. My mother may have believed your story, but until I get confirmation either way of your role in it, I will not trust you. Now, we did nothing wrong here today. We helped the officers do their job. Do not be blaming us because you let the leader go."

"He's right" a voice said behind them, turning around they saw it was Chief Jenny "he didn't interfere with a police or League raid, he simply helped place the suspects in the vehicle and restrained them in the most painless way possible which will be reflected in my report. You're free to go Mr Ketchum and Mr Slate. Mr Oak, follow me, it seems we need to talk about your behaviour."

"I don't answer to you Laura" Blue said facing Jenny "you have no authority over me."

"Actually Blue, in this case I do" Jenny said smiling "Lance rang me to place me in command of this operation. Now, shall we?"

Walking away Ash and Brock decided to go to the Pokémon centre to heal their Pokémon and chatted aimlessly for a few hours. Ash told Brock that he may end up seeing him at Scissor Street as it was on his route but if he didn't to have a good time. Ash then trotted up to his room where he rang his mum and told her what had happened. Initially she frowned when hearing that he had deliberately gone against his word but when he told her Jenny welcomed his aid in loading the criminals into the vans, she was somewhat mollified.

"That's all I did mum, I swear. Jenny's report will say the same thing, you can also check with Brock as he helped." Ash said seeing her face "we didn't set foot inside the Game Corner, and we also never got into any battles outside."

"I'll let you off this time Ash" Delia said "and I'll be having words with Sam about Blue. He does not have the authority to chastise you when you're helping the police. Now, changing the subject how's Eevee doing?"

"She's good" Ash said looking over at her sleeping "she's not given any indication about her decision yet though. I don't expect her too for a few weeks either. It's a huge decision, one you can't reverse."

"It is" Delia said smiling "so where are you headed next?"

"Well, there's a few towns on the way to Fuchsia that I'll be passing through." Ash replied "I'll also probably meet Brock again in Scissor Street in a few weeks, it was nice having a chat with him today. Here's a question, if Dad was still around do you think you'd have had more kids?"

"That is a question Ash" Delia said leaning back "the quick answer is yes; the longer answer will have to wait for when we meet up again as it's slightly complicated. Why do you ask?"

"Talking to Brock had me thinking about what I would have been like as an older brother" Ash said, "I know I wasn't an easy child to raise so I just wondered if you'd bother trying for another child given the difficulties you had raising me."

"Those issues would have been halved Ash" Delia said "your Dad would have been able to help you out with a lot of them so I wouldn't have struggled as much. As I said it's a story for another time Ash."

"Yeah, it likely is" Ash said "well, I just thought I'd keep you up to date on what's happening with me. I'll send Eevee back tomorrow morning mum. Good night, tell Melanie I hope her wedding goes perfectly."

"Night Ash" she replied, "love you lots and lots like jelly tots."

2 hours earlier

Butch and Cassidy made their way into Celadon Game Corner excited to be doing something other than babysitting. They both noticed Ash sitting at the café next door but put it down to coincidence. Entering the underground lair, they made their way to the platform where they spoke to the new admin Thomas that had replaced Arnold who had disappeared in Mt Moon. As they watched many recruits enter the room, they saw the big screen come up on the stage. As 8:00 hit the face of their boss came on heavily covered up with the shadows in his room and the room was silenced.

"In less than ten minutes you will all be teleported to the Safari Zone back entrance. From there you will capture everything you see. This is not going to be a contest; you will not be part of a competition. We are there to get in, capture and then get out. You will have forty-five minutes to capture as many Pokémon as you can, the extraction teams will be leaving at 9:15 on the dot. If you're left behind, then it's your own fault and you will not be bailed out. Your admins will now place you in separate teams under their command, do not disobey them. They have the Alakazams that will take you to and from the Safari Zone. You will be brought back here where you will hand over everything you've captured."

At that the feed cut off and people started heading to the admins in place. That was until all hell broke loose and they were attacked from behind as trainers started to pour into the place releasing Pokémon. Pitched battles broke out as people frantically began to try and escape using any means they could. Butch and Cassidy decided fleeing would be the best thing to do so they grabbed on to Thomas as the admins teleported themselves out leaving the recruits behind.

Arriving back at HQ Butch saw Domino phone someone, obviously having a frantic conversation about what had happened. Hanging up she dialled another number and had another heated conversation. The boss wouldn't have heard what happened yet, if Celadon was an ambush, then it stood to reason that the Safari Zone would be one too.

The Boss of Team Rocket sat back in his luxury helicopter as it sped towards the Safari Zone, this would be the perfect opportunity to recoup some of his losses from Pokémon Land. He had several buyers already waiting for pickup from his HQ to ship the various Pokémon all across the world. They were a few minutes outside of Fuchsia when he noticed that the helicopter began to veer away from the city in the distance and back out across the sea. Frowning he picked up his private telephone and questioned the pilot.

"What is going on?"

"Sir, we've just had word from Domino. Immediately after you hung up the base at Celadon was raided by Blue Oak and the G-Men. Some of your admins have managed to escape, but the majority of the recruits have likely been captured. She rang a spy in Fuchsia who is keeping an eye on the Safari Zone. She was told Lance and the rest of the Elite Four were spotted less than an hour ago in Fuchsia. It's an ambush Sir. So, I'm getting you as far away as I can from the area."

Putting the phone down the boss leaned back and closed his eyes. Pokémon Land, Celadon Game Corner. Both gone. The only place left was his private boat company in the Orange Islands. Celadon and Pokémon Land were the two biggest earners he had. Now he had virtually nothing. For the first time in ten years fear gripped him as all the plans he had were gone. The only thing left was the biggest plan he had. The M2 project must still go ahead. Picking up the phone again he simply said "take me to the lab on New Island" before angrily placing the phone back down.

Elsewhere

A man was sat in a room flicking through the channels when an emergency broadcast interrupted it. Watching for around ten minutes he turned the TV off and made his way downstairs and into the lab he owned underneath his house.

"Celadon Game Corner has been raided." He said to the other person in the room.

"Interesting" it said, "that's the two biggest businesses he had that have gone now."

"Yes" the man said shrewdly "you wouldn't happen to have a hand in either of them, would you?"

"Not Pokémon Land, no" the other man replied "that was very fortuitous. With Celadon though I may have leaked information to the right people."

"The right people?" the man asked turning to the person. "How?"

"Yes" it said "our task is nearly done now, we're nearly free. We have both suffered because of Team Rocket. Things are about to come to a head very soon. And would you believe me if I said aura?"

"Yes, it is and no I don't" the man said looking at a picture of a woman holding a baby on the wall "hopefully my family forgives me for what I've put them through."

"You know they will" it said.

"You've obviously never met my wife then" the man said walking back upstairs.

"No Red, and I don't think I ever will" it said quietly watching him walk away.

Chapter 21: Chapter 21- Adventures

Chapter Text

Chapter 21- A series of adventures

Fuchsia was six to eight weeks away so Ash heavily stocked up on all the items he would need for the journey. Looking into his backpack he wondered what he would need to send home to accommodate all the potions and full heals he had bought. Checking his map, he saw there was only two Pokémon centres on the entire route so he would need to be very careful about getting into battles. Deciding he'd send his stones and the Old Amber home lightened his pack considerably. He would be passing through Pallet Town on the way to Cinnabar Island anyway so he could pick them up at that time should he need them. He knew he'd definitely need the Old Amber due to his plan on resurrecting Aerodactyl, but he couldn't see a need for his stones. Perhaps he'd sell them or give them to Professor Oak.

He sent his mum a quick message about what he was sending before he left for the Pidgeot Post Office. Afterwards Ash made his way out of the city and onto Route 16. He knew his mum would be busy for the next few days due to the upcoming wedding of Lance and Melanie so hopefully a neighbour could take the package for her while she was away. Thinking of the wedding had Ash thinking out loud to his Pokémon as they walked along the route about his own future. He knew that as an Aura Wielder he would have no choice in the matter of love. He wondered just who he would be compatible with.

"Well let's hope it's none of the women you've offended in the last six months Ash" Ivysaur said chuckling "knowing your luck though..." he finished trailing off.

"Don't!" Ash said chuckling along with the rest "don't you jinx me Ivysaur. You know that that's what will likely happen."

"I'm just saying" Ivysaur teased "Sabrina could be your destined mate."

"Hey!" Ash said looking a bit offended "too far Ivysaur!"

Ignoring the chuckles from his team he carried on "but seriously, I wonder who it will be."

"Well, there's been a few women you've met that you've outright blushed when talking to" Pikachu said, "the rest of you guys didn't see his reaction to Lorelei when they first met, it was hilarious."

"Hey!" Ash said again "in my defence Lorelei is stunning, and up until then the only women I'd actually talked to properly was my mum, the Joys and the Jenny's. It was a shock to find out that someone like Lorelei actually knew who I was, and I soon got past the embarrassment of meeting her."

"And then there was Elesa" Pikachu said, "you two seemed to get on well."

"We did" Ash agreed non-committally "but that's not going to happen either. She's in Kalos now with her mum."

"You seem to know an awful lot about her considering you don't think she's the one" Wartortle said smirking.

"No, I don't," Ash said perplexed "I don't know anything about her other than what she told us in Vermillion the one time we met. I only know where she is because Lt Surge told me when I asked for tips on Pikachu after I asked how his family was."

"Hmmm" Wartortle said "a likely story. Anyway, it's going to be an interesting few years for you before you hit Aural Maturity isn't it?"

"Yeah" Ash said "I can't say I'm looking forward to it either. It's not going to be fun."

"Yeah" Charmeleon piped up "your mum told us what your dad went through. He was lucky he found his mate soon after it hit him."

"When did you talk to mum about this?" Ash asked confused.

"Ash, we were on a ship for a month together" Charmeleon said "we talked all the time."

"Oh" Ash replied stupidly "ok then."

"Yeah" Charmeleon said "I'm glad we go through seasons only once we reach adulthood." The rest nodded along with him and seemed to be the end of that particular line of conversation. A few hours later they stopped to have a break beside a little stream. Watching the Goldeen and Magikarp swimming around made Ash feel at peace.

"I don't think I'll ever get over how beautiful Kanto is outside of the cities if you just take the time to relax" he said, "people in the cities are so busy being worried about things that they don't seem to appreciate the little things."

"It is very pretty" Ivysaur said "I've not enjoyed the cities we've been to except Celadon but that was only because of the big park."

"Well, the next place we're going to is very pretty" Ash said "Fuchsia is a very 'green' place, a few years back the government got sick of all the pollution in the city and pulled down all the buildings that produced toxic fumes. You're not allowed to take bottles of water onto their beaches, unless they're in biodegradable bottles and they're severely strict on littering. It's home to the Safari Zone too, but before we get into that place there's a huge area of land where catching Pokémon is forbidden, they all roam free across the countryside. It's somewhere I'm quite keen on visiting."

"How come?" Ivysaur asked.

"I'm trying to get as many ideas as possible for our future home" Ash said "I don't want any Pokémon I capture to feel as though it has to sleep inside or stay with us so I'm going to try and create habitats for them and the local wildlife. The ranch that owns the fields have done something similar and it's worked. Wild Pokémon know they're safe to be free while also knowing where they can and cannot go for safety reasons. I also keep thinking back to the Heart of Viridian Forest and how the Pidgeot had taken control of the area and kept everyone safe. Maybe we could implement something like that. This is a long way off for now though but I'm getting more and more ideas with every place I go to."

"That sounds wonderful" Ivysaur said smiling.

"I had you in mind as the protector" Ash said looking at him "I doubt Charmeleon will be around much given his life goal, Pikachu will likely be in the house and Wartortle still hasn't come up with an idea of what he wants to do yet."

"Really?" Ivysaur asked "why?"

"Because of your nature" Wartortle answered just floating about in the stream "you're a born protector Ivysaur. You did it in your village with Melanie and I don't think you realise it, but you do it with us too. We don't mind by the way. It's nice that someone has that mindset. So having you as our family's protector is a no-brainer really."

"Wartortle isn't wrong" Charmeleon said lazily opening an eye from where he was snoozing "I'm far too headstrong at times to be rational, Wartortle is lazy, Pikachu is too serious. The only one that comes close to you is Eevee, which is exactly why we all know what she'll evolve into."

"Hey!" Wartortle said "I'm not lazy, I'm just not fond of overexerting myself if I don't need to."

"Point made" Pikachu said, "but they're right."

"We have years to decide on anything Ivysaur" Ash said "but give it some thought. Make sure the decision is yours though. Anyway, guys let's get going. We have a schedule to keep." Standing up he packed up the mini camp and they headed off back onto the road to Fuchsia.

In the evening just under a week later Ash walked into the oddest little town he had ever seen. It was dominated by a few buildings that rose high into the sky. Surrounding it were various houses. Walking through the town Ash began to get a nagging feeling in his head. Trying to think of what it could be kept him on high alert. That was until a clearly deranged woman came running up to him demanding his help.

"Please Mr, you have to help me find my son."

"Whoa, hang on Mrs" Ash said shaking her off "I've literally just entered this town. Now what's going on."

"For the past few weeks several children have gone missing in this town" a voice said behind him making him spin around. It was Officer Jenny "and we've had no luck finding out where they've gone. We've had no evidence of them being kidnapped either, they've just vanished. We've also had reports of several people acting oddly in the evening but every time we get to where they've been sighted, they too have disappeared."

"My son has gone missing" the clearly irate woman said interrupting them "and you've done nothing to try and find them. And telling stories has got you nowhere nearer either."

"Hey!" Ash said "I get you're angry, but you don't get to vent at Jenny for this. She's not the one at fault. And it's clear it's not an isolated event. And what the hell is that noise?"

"What noise?" Jenny asked concerned.

"It's like a buzzing in my head" Ash said making the woman back away warily "I've felt it before but for the life of me I can't think where."

"My Charlie said the same thing!" the woman said, "like a persistent humming noise that doesn't go away."

"Yes exactly!" Ash said looking around "I just wish I knew where I've felt like it before. Pi, do you have any ideas?"

"I can feel something Ash" Pikachu said looking around "I just don't know what. Hey, where's that kid going?"

The three of them turned to face what Pikachu was looking at. It was a young girl, around eleven years old walking as if in a trance. Several times she bumped into various objects but gave no indication she had done so. "Hypnotism" Ash said strengthening his mind with Aura making the feeling disappear "something is hypnotising her for her to act like that. I suggest we follow them and find out. Pi, be wary. It reminds me of Lavender Town with the Spiritomb".

Quickly rushing after the girl, they eventually made their way through various alleys until they came to a tall building. Seeing her enter they followed her. Entering the building they asked the receptionist if they'd seen a little girl come in. Startled at seeing an Officer, she stammered out that she had seen a little girl but as it was common, she didn't think anything of it.

"A young girl walks into this building, and you don't question it?" Jenny asked irate "if I don't get some answers from you everyone in this place will be arrested. Now where the hell is the little girl we have just seen walk in here?"

"They go into that elevator" the receptionist said crying pointing to the lift in the corner "I swear that's all I know. I'm just the receptionist here at the Pokémon Lovers building."

"Pi" Ash said leading the way "there's five floors to check out. I suggest we start at the top and make our way down."

"I'll start on floor one" Jenny said handing him a walkie-talkie "ring me if you find anything. Mrs Cooke, you will stay here and make sure no one leaves. Back-up will be arriving shortly. Explain to my deputy what's happened. Make sure that receptionist doesn't leave either. Let's go Ash."

"Hang on" Ash said releasing Ivysaur and Wartortle "guys, if anyone except myself or Jenny comes out of these elevators that looks suspicious freeze their feet and put them to sleep. Someone in this building has kidnapped children so we're not taking any chances. There will be back-up arriving very soon. Also make sure the receptionist goes nowhere and protect Mrs Cooke. Cheers guys" turning to Jenny he said "after you officer."

Entering the elevator, they pressed their respective numbers. Jenny got out first releasing a Growlithe, Ash heard her yell at the clearly surprised workers before the doors closed. Mentally preparing himself Ash waited for the elevator to stop before walking out. What he saw absolutely stunned him. There was a huge table that seated around sixteen people, all of whom were asleep. In the middle of the tables though was a Drowzee and a Hypno waving their hands in a hypnotic manner. Pointing Dexter, he beeped to life.

"Drowzee, Pokedex Number 96, The Hypnosis Pokémon. This Pokémon is male. If you sleep by it all the time, it will sometimes show you dreams it has eaten in the past.

Hypno, Pokedex Number 97, The Hypnosis Pokémon. this Pokémon is male. Avoid eye contact if you come across one. It will try to put you to sleep by using its pendulum. When it is very hungry, it puts humans it meets to sleep, then it feasts on their dreams."

Walking past the table Ash noticed an open balcony that led to the top of the building. Walking through the door Ash was amazed to find a beautiful green garden. It wasn't empty though. On the grass were five children hopping around pretending they were animals.

"Pi" Ash said walking back in "Knock those two Pokémon out while I radio Jenny." Within seconds they both received an Iron Tail to the head and knocked them out. Hearing the elevator go a minute later Ash turned around to see Jenny look as bewildered as he was. "Those two Pokémon had put these guys under some kind of spell, and you'll find the missing children on the balcony pretending they're Pokémon." Hearing this Jenny rushed out to check on them.

"They're ok" she said walking back in "they seem to be asleep for now, but we'll need to get them checked over. As for these guys, we need to wake them up. They have some answers I'd quite like to hear."

"You hear that, Pi?" Ash asked chuckling "these guys need to be woken up to answer the lovely officers' questions. Would you do the honours?"

Pikachu lit them up causing them to howl in pain as they woke up. "Just what is going on?" one of the men asked who was sitting at the head of the table.

"I think you'll find I'm asking the questions" Jenny said interrupting any rant he was about to go on "right now all of you are under arrest for the kidnapping of five children. Now stand up, we're going to do this in fours going downstairs. I suggest you stay silent. Ash, can you come down with the children once they've woken up?"

"Will do, Pi stay with Jenny just in case they try anything" Ash said walking back out onto the balcony and waking the children up by shaking their shoulder. Seeing them groggily sit up Ash waited for a few minutes before asking them to follow him. Seeing the last lot of grumbling old men enter the elevator Ash waited for it to come back up before leading them down. As the doors opened at the bottom several cries could be heard from the concerned parents as they saw their children. Seeing Jenny waiting at the reception desk with Pikachu on her shoulder he made his way over to her with the children.

"They all seem fine" Ash heard Jenny say much to the relief of the parents "but they have just been through an ordeal. I don't know why but they were under a hypnosis attack as were all the men on the top floor. They were all acting like Pokémon so they will need to be checked over by the doctors to make sure they weren't hurt at all. While that's going on I will get some answers from the culprits. Rest assured you will all be told what happened. If you could all follow my deputy that would be great" After the parents collected their children Jenny turned to the shaken and distraught receptionist and said "you're coming with me too. For the last few weeks, you've known that these very children have gone missing and said nothing to anyone. As far as I'm concerned, you've aided the kidnap of five children. Laura" she said turning to another Jenny "can you take her please while I get Mr Ketchum's statement. This way Mr Ketchum" she said leading the way over to the couch. Sitting down she took Ash's statement, closing her booklet with a sigh. "I want to thank you Ash. Without you we may never have found them."

"It's ok" Ash said standing up with Jenny "I was glad to help. Hopefully everything gets sorted and it's not as sinister as it seems. Can you let me know what the outcome is?"

"We can only hope, and I'll inform you what I'm legally allowed to once I have the whole plot uncovered. Thanks again Ash" Jenny said standing up, shaking Ash's hand, and leaving. Shaking his head Ash did the same, quickly leaving the city as soon as he could. Continuing down the route Ash let his Pokémon know what had happened and why they'd left in such a hurry.

"I have no plans to be anywhere near that place anytime soon. I don't want to be swamped with people thanking me, Jenny's questioning me again or anything else so I left."

Nodding they all continued on in silence until Wartortle broke it "it could be a Jenny."

"What could?" Pikachu said confused.

"Who Ash is destined to be with" Wartortle said as if it was obvious.

"That conversation ended days ago" Ash said perplexed "what goes through your mind?"

"His one brain cell is very lonely in there Ash" Ivysaur said "it's not his fault he has the mind of a Slowpoke."

"Hey!" Wartortle said causing them all to laugh relieving the tension that had been around them all.

A week later Ash started to notice more and more people joining him and passing him on the path they were on, and none of them seemed to want to battle. It took a few days of curiosity to ask someone where they were all going.

"Oh, we're going to Scissor Street" a young woman replied before speeding off with her boyfriend. It suddenly clicked in Ash's head why they were all refusing battles. They didn't want to mess up whatever they had done to their Pokémon in preparation for the contest coming up.

Walking into the small city Ash found that the centre was fully booked and didn't have a professor's room. Ash wasn't too concerned about this as he had no plans to stay for the big event. Getting his Pokémon healed he read a few of the pamphlets about the convention. Some of it was intriguing, most wasn't to him. A tap on his shoulder surprised Ash and turning around he saw it was Brock and laughed.

"Hey pal" Ash said shaking his hand "good to see you."

"You too Ash" Brock said happily "you here for the conventions?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head "I'm on my way to Fuchsia and I'm just passing through. A few seem interesting though so I may pop into one."

"Well, the food invention convention is about to start in an hour if you want to join me?" Brock asked.

"That's actually one of the few I was looking at going to" Ash said laughing. Picking up his Pokémon Ash and Brock walked to the big marquee that had been set up and bought two tickets to the show. Getting front row tickets, they sat down and waited, chatting as it filled up.

"What's Scissor Street?" Pikachu asked as they were watching the guests go up on stage, practicing for their big day.

"It's a Pokémon breeders convention." Brock said after Ash translated "It's poorly named as it's a city not a street, but every year people participate in mini contests in their local area, showing off new styles, coming up with new breeding techniques, new food supplements etc and the winners all then get to take part in the grand festival here at Scissor Street."

"It's a pretty big deal actually" Ash said "A lot of trainers would brush it off as pampering and showing off how pretty their Pokémon can be but for the serious people it's more than that. Their techniques help in the raising of trainers Pokémon whether they know it or not. I wouldn't have been able to come up with all your diets had someone else not put the basics in place to begin with. The food I created for all of you are all derivations of what past winners here have done."

"You created food for your Pokémon?" a voice asked from the stage. It was a young woman who had overheard and walked forward. She had green hair, green eyes and was holding a Vulpix.

"Yes miss" Ash said nodding. "For my Pokémon to be able to be in peak condition for battles and life in general I knew they needed a diet that was tailor made for them individually. Pokémon Pal came out with a new discovery around six years ago theorising about Pokémon's natures and abilities. When I read that I decided that when I became a trainer my Pokémon would all have diets designed to enhance their natures and abilities. For instance, Pikachu has a Mild nature which means he likes his food dry but cannot stand anything sour. Ivysaur has a Sassy nature and likes bitter tasting food but cannot stand sweet food. So, with their food I mix in vitamins and food flavourings made from berries I take from trees. It's not difficult really and I often wonder why more people don't do what I do. I've come to the conclusion it's down to laziness on their part."

"Wow" she said looking at him. Neither of them had realised that the crowd had grown silent during Ash's explanation "and has it helped?"

"Oh immensely" Ash said nodding "Pikachu's fur is shinier, and his body is healthier than any other of his kind and his special attacks are more potent, Ivysaur's body has become more durable and is able to process nutrients from the ground easier so he's able to interact with nature on a more intimate level, my Wartortle's shell is thicker and harder and his legs are sturdier and he has a deeper reservoir of water than normal and my Charmeleon's body has become thicker, his muscles more defined and his attacks more lethal. I'm glad I did what I did, my Pokémon have never once complained about the food they get, and they get healthier and stronger every day. It's also helped their cognitive behaviour too, they're very intelligent and can hold conversations like humans do".

"Then why aren't you up there?" a voice said from his side. Turning he saw a man with a Ninetails just off the side of the stage.

"Because I don't want to be" Ash said perplexed at the question "I've not done anything special like the people who are up on stage have done. I've been here before with my mum. She's always told me about how good you have to be to be in the final for these conventions and all I've done is stood on the shoulders of the previous winners and adapted their inventions for my own gain. For me to be up there would make me a phony and a liar."

"After the pre-judging I would quite like to see your food making abilities please" the woman said with the man nodding at her side.

"Yes, me too" he said.

Shrugging his shoulders, he said "ok, I'm not sure what you'll gain from it though as I've pretty much explained what I do." Seeing the crowd get busier the man and woman walked off while Ash and Brock talked more about food techniques. Brock, Ash discovered was just as interested as the man and woman was about it. Being a food connoisseur for Pokémon himself he thought learning off Ash would help him become a better breeder. Ash though learned just as much off Brock.

"I have an idea" Ash said later that afternoon as they had gone to get some food "Now, this is a secret for now, but I have just been sponsored by Silph. With it comes a massive marketing team for me because of the books I've published before I became a trainer. How would you feel collaborating on a breeder's book where Pokémon food is the main subject?"

"Wow" Brock said amazed "really? Why would you want to do that?"

"Because you're my friend" Ash said "And you have given me just as many ideas in the last few hours as I've had in the last few years. It wouldn't be fair to you for me to sell the ideas and you not to receive any compensation for it."

"Why me though?" Brock asked.

Sighing Ash explained what had happened in the last few months. "you're one of very few people I feel comfortable talking to outside of a battle setting. I have no idea why either as growing up I didn't want to talk to anyone. I can't explain it very well, it's like you're the big brother I never had."

"Wow" Brock said again taking it all in "so what would I have to do?"

"Nothing really" Ash said "I now have a team that can take care of every aspect of publishing a book. Over the next few weeks or months put all your ideas down on paper, send them to me and I'll send them on to Silph. You may be asked to do a book signing but apart from that I don't know what else you'll have to do. I'll have my lawyers come up with a contract for you, so you get half of any earnings. It may not end up being a massive amount at the minute due to me being a nobody and the percentage Silph take off but when I'm Champion sales are likely to soar. Plus, this is a way for you to be a more notable breeder. If you have a book out already it gives you a better chance of becoming a doctor or breeder."

"It does" Brock said tearily "thank you Ash. This may be the break I've been waiting for."

"Happy to help Brock. I'll send an email to my team now" he said taking out his pokegear and writing a proposal to them "I'll forward on any relevant information you need to know. Now, shall we go see who wins?"

Standing up they made their way to the convention spit-balling ideas about their new project. Brock was still wary, he hadn't told Ash this as Ash seemed to be genuine, but until he had the contract in his hands it was just fantasy. But his mind raced with ideas on what he could put in the book.

"I just want to say this" Ash said stopping them both before they went inside the marquee again "this will happen Brock. And I have no issues with you using this as a springboard to write more books on breeding. I had help getting my big break publishing via Professor Oak and I'm more than happy to do the same with you. Take the opportunity Brock. There are no strings attached from my end. I can't say the same from Silph though so just be mindful of what you're getting into. Truly think it over."

"I will do Ash" Brock said, "I'll talk it over with my families' lawyers when I receive the contract, but until then I hope you understand why I'm wary."

"I do" Ash said "I'd be the same. Now, let's go."

Hours later Ash was waiting off to the side with Brock as the crowds cleared. The winner had been a middle-aged man who had come up with a potion combining kit. The woman who had talked to him earlier made her way to him. "I'm Suzie" she said shaking his hand "I'm glad you stayed behind as I'm truly intrigued as to what you've created. Enhancing the power and beauty from within has always been my goal when being a breeder."

"Me too" the man said "I'm Zane. Anything that enhances a Pokémon's outer beauty is marvellous to me."

"Well, this does both" Ash said looking between them "This is my friend Brock by the way."

"Pleased to meet you, Suzie. I've been a follower of your work for years now" Brock said happily shaking her hand.

"Now, what I'm about to show you will be limited I'm afraid" Ash said "Brock and I have just agreed to collaborate on a book, and we don't want people stealing our ideas. So, I'll show you the basics of what I do."

"Oh, that's wonderful" Suzie said "I'll be sure to keep an eye out for it. Now, show me show me." She said enthusiastically.

Laughing Ash went through the basics of what he did for food preparation, how he stored the crushed berries and how he combined them with the vitamins and supplements.

"You end up with these" Ash said pulling out a container full of square blocks "and each one is stacked with nutrition and stat enhancing vitamins. Combined with the relentless training we do, and you get the results we have. My three starter Pokémon have all evolved much quicker than they usually would do through the rigorous training, but it's very much married to the food they get."

"Can I try one?" Brock asked earning a surprised look from Suzie and Zane as he popped one into his mouth and chewed with a thoughtful look on his face.

"You eat Pokémon food?" Zane asked with a disgusted look on his face.

"Of course," Brock said perplexed "how else would you know what it tastes like? This one seems to be a mixture of sweet, spicy and dry".

"Brock is right" Ash said earning a surprised look from the two breeders "It's for my Wartortle who has a neutral nature. He has no real preferences or dislikes in his food. I have the advantage of being able to talk to Pokémon and understand them. Brock doesn't so he can only go off what faces and noises the Pokémon makes. But I also try it to make sure the consistency and flavours are good. As I stated before Pokémon's natures are key when figuring out their preferences. If it tastes bad, then they're not going to eat it."

It wasn't long before Brock and Ash parted ways. He was still hanging around over the next few days to pick up new ideas and Ash had a badge to travel for. Promising to keep in touch Ash made his way out of the city and decided to ring his mum while traveling. Hearing what he had said to Brock made Delia very happy and told Ash she was proud of him.

"Sam's decision to publish my scribbles without me knowing ensured our future mum. If I can do the same for Brock, then I will do."

Hearing about the wedding left Ash bored but as his mum was happy, he endured it. It was happening in the next few days so she would be very busy helping Melanie with the preparations. Hanging up Ash sent Lance a good luck message and he continued on with his journey.

The next few days Ash made his way down the winding paths towards Fuchsia city. The topic of discussion was yet again another team member.

"I really don't know" Ash said "we've not found anyone we like yet have we. I planned on getting information about the Safari Zone and hunting in there. What do you think?"

"That sounds reasonable" Charmeleon said "but the later you leave it the less training they'll get before the league. We have five badges now, and the league is seven months away. It's not far off at all."

"I'm aware" Ash said "but we arrive in Fuchsia in just over under three weeks' time. Until then all we can do is train and travel."

"I'll be glad when I evolve" Charmeleon said grumbling "that way we can get places quicker."

"And miss out on seeing this beautiful country?" Pikachu said laughing.

"Yes" he answered "I'll have wings. What's the point in having them if I don't use them."

Laughing they continued for another few hours before a noise from the side of Ash made him tense up. From nowhere something launched itself out of the bushes and started to attack them. Ash automatically shifted his stance and started going toe-to-toe with the Pokémon that had attacked them, and it wasn't long before Ash slipped under the Pokémon's guard and hit it on the chin sending it sprawling. Readying a pokeball Ash started the motion to throw when a voice stopped him.

"Stop! That's my Pokémon" a man said making his way out of the bushes "I'm sorry he attacked you."

"Yes" Ash said glaring at the man "and why did it attack me? For that matter why did you let it attack me?"

"I didn't let him attack you" the man said frowning looking at the downed Pokémon "lately Hitmonchan has been acting out and attacking random strangers that pass this way. You see a big tournament is happening in the next few days called the P1 tournament. It's huge for fighting type trainers as the winner gets to go onto the nationals where we represent Kanto and go against Pokémon from other regions. Last year Hitmonchan lost in the final of the P1 to a Hitmonlee and has been zealous in his training ever since."

"He's not the only one" a voice said from their side. Looking over Ash saw a young girl walk forward "you've been just as zealous dad. And you've been just as absent in our house because of Hitmonchan."

"He needs training Rebecca" the man said, "we've been over this."

"And I need a dad" Rebecca said, "and mum needs her husband back."

"Hitmonchan wants to win and I do to. This could be our last chance to represent Kanto in the grand tournament. If we lose, then we come home" the man said.

"And if you win you lose your daughter" Rebecca said walking off leaving the man to sigh and shake his head.

"She's just like her mother. I know she's not wrong but this is our dream" recalling Hitmonchan he walked off leaving a perplexed Ash to wonder just what the hell had just happened.

"At least your reflexes are still sharp" Pikachu muttered as they gathered themselves and walked on.

"Maybe we should attend this P1 tournament" Wartortle said "after all you did say you wanted a fighting type. Maybe watching them will give you an idea of which one you want."

"Did that just come from him?" Pikachu asked Ash.

"Yeah, it did" Ash said chuckling at the outraged look on Wartortles face "you know he has his moments every now and then."

A few miles down the road Ash came to a Pokémon centre where various people were milling about. Sitting down Ash listened in to all the conversations that were happening around him when he was joined at the table. Tapping Ash on the shoulder startled him as he was in a world of his own. It was Bruno who sat down opposite him.

"Fancy seeing you here Ash" Bruno said chuckling.

"I'd say the same for you but I'm guessing you're going to be a judge at the P1" Ash said.

"Ah you know about it then?" Brun said happily "yes, every year I judge Kanto's latest crop of fighting types. I represented it myself five years running. We only won two but it's still something that's close to my heart all these years later. The last few years have been very disappointing to be honest. Last year's winner won by a fluke in the final and it showed in the grand tournament. Oh, don't get me wrong, he was decent, but the runner up should have won. My job though is to congratulate the winner. So why are you here?"

"I'm on my way to Fuchsia, I've just been at Scissor Street for a convention, and this is the route towards my next badge." Ash said, "along the route I was attacked by a guy with a Hitmonchan, he said he was runner-up last year and Wartortle said something that made me take a slight detour here."

"Oh?" Bruno asked leaning forwards "go on."

"Well, I was trained by the Lucario of Cameron Palace for five years in hand-to-hand combat and I was worried my skills had deteriorated" Ash said "That was until I beat the Hitmonchan yesterday with my bare hands. But Wartortle did say that I have been after a fighting type to spar with every day to keep my reflexes up. So, I'm here to get some ideas on who to get. My ideal one I refuse to get as they have a connection to Cameron Palace, all Lucario report to Rota or Cameron Palace at some point as they believe being an Aura Guardian is a noble cause. And I was talking to Karate Master Richard about this too when I fought him. I would love to have a Hitmonchan or Hitmonlee of my own but they're very rare and Tyrogue are even rarer."

"Interesting" Bruno said leaning back "Richard did mention it to me now that I think on it but since then a lot has happened and it went out of my mind. Out of curiosity which would you prefer, Hitmonchan or Hitmonlee?"

"Hitmonchan" Ash said after a few seconds of thinking "Richards Hitmonchan overcame its stamina issues due to training relentlessly and I'm sure yours is stronger than his. And it was seeing your Hitmonchan in action which enhanced my love for them. I have been considering the Machop line too though. It's just their speed that lets them down but I'm slowly adapting to training methods that are defensive minded due to Ivysaur. He's helped me learn a lot in staying defensive until the opportunity for counterattacking is there."

"Every Pokémon has a weakness" Bruno said "with fighting types it's usually their speed, but training can overcome that. My Machamp isn't fast but he's far from slow." Looking up at the clock he saw it was time to go to the tournament. "I'll see you after the tournament Ash. I have some information for you."

A few hours later Ash was watching the final of the tournament. The man with the Hitmonchan had made it to the final. He had gained a new liking for a few different fighting types though. Pangoro looked like beasts when trained right, and Heracross had enormous potential. Why they were here to represent Kanto though baffled Ash. He also wasn't really impressed with the battles either as he felt he himself could beat everyone that had participated.

Walking into the ring Bruno announced the finalists. "In the red corner we have Anthony and his Hitmonchan and in the blue corner we have Bruce and his Primeape. The winner of this battle gets to go on and represent Kanto in the Grand Championship later on this year. Good luck to both sides."

What followed was one of the most boring bouts Ash had ever seen. Neither seemed to want to make the first move for what seemed like an eternity and when they finally did fight it was very one-sided. The Hitmonchan was clearly the better fighter, Primeape seemed to only know how to thrash about which made it easy to counter. Just staying out of the way and getting in hits here and there wore the Primeape out until Hitmonchan hit a Mega Punch and ended the bout. Shaking his head Ash waited off to the side for Bruno to finish up his work. After an hour of doing PR work and shaking hands Bruno made his way over to Ash and asked him to follow him. Walking into the back Ash followed him to the Pokémon Centre and into Bruno's room where he was surprised to find Lorelei there with their baby girl. Walking over to her he was surprised to feel a faint hint of aura coming from her.

"Hi" Ash said awkwardly "I didn't expect to see you here. Who's this then?"

"This is Hailee" Lorelei said, "our daughter."

"She's adorable" Ash said smiling "sorry, I'm no good with children. I've never been sociable from the moment I was born apparently. How old is she?"

"It's ok" Lorelei said laughing "She's soon be 2. Do you want to hold her?"

"No" Ash said quickly "sorry, that was a bit quick. No, thank you."

"Are you sure?" Bruno said walking over looking freshly showered giving Lorelei and Hailee a kiss.

"I am" Ash said, "I can't touch her, it wouldn't be fair to her."

"What do you mean?" Lorelei asked confused.

"She's emitting a faint pulse of Aura" Ash said shocking them both "I'm afraid that she'll have the same reaction I did when Riley grabbed my hand when I was six. I blacked out and it took a week for my aura to settle in hospital because it was unlocked. I don't know what reaction she will have."

"We better get in touch with Riley then" Bruno said, "if our daughter has Aura she needs to be trained."

"I'll train her" Ash said quickly surprising even him "do not go to Riley. The Guardians of Cameron Palace and Rota always have ulterior motives when training new recruits. They'll use your daughter for their own ends, especially because of who you two are. Remember what I told you in Cerulean Lorelei about Ilene. That stance hasn't changed."

"Are you sure you can train her? And what's in it for you?" Bruno asked seriously.

"Nothing is in it for me except knowing someone competent is training your daughter without having an ulterior motive about how they can use her or her connections" Ash said looking straight at him "in a months' time I will be releasing a book anyway on how people can access their own aura. Silph has agreed with me to release it for free. I'll also speak with mum about giving you dads notes on raising a child of aura. I'm also very sure she'll happily give you advice as it wasn't easy raising me."

"We'll discuss it" Lorelei said with finality looking at Bruno who nodded.

"I will say this then" Ash said "I'm the most gifted Aura user currently alive. You won't find a better trainer than me and I'm not bragging. There's a reason Cameron Palace and Rota tried to get me to serve them. I can do things with aura that few others can even attempt to do."

"Noted" Bruno said "now, as to why I asked you here. First of all, what did you think of the tournament?"

"It was bad" Ash said grimly shaking his head "in actuality I think the words 'utter crap' would be more apt. The guy who won it only did so because the Primeape his opponent used was untrained. How he got to the final I'll never know either as every round he was in all he did was Thrash. He won through attrition and not skill. Why wasn't he disqualified?"

"Thrash is a legitimate move" Bruno said making them all a drink "and it seemed to be the only command it would listen to."

"It would be a piss-poor reflection of Kanto if that had won" Ash said ignoring the 'language' comment from Lorelei "I cannot believe they both got to the final. The Hitmonchan was the one I told you about earlier. I beat it myself; I can't help but feel Richard and you look at that Pokémon and shake your head at how poor it is at fighting."

"You're not wrong there" Bruno sighed "my own Hitmonchan wouldn't break a sweat beating it."

"Not everyone can be Elite" Lorelei reminded them both.

"Maybe not" Ash said shrugging "but every trainer should at least be competent in who they're training. It's not difficult to watch videos of people who use their Pokémon to see what they can improve on. I myself printed off descriptions of moves I'd never learned in order to help train my own Pokémon because I had no one else to ask. The resources are there for those who can be bothered to look."

"He's not wrong sweetheart" Bruno said looking at her "you know this."

"I know" Lorelei said shaking her head "sadly though it is what it is. Anyway, we asked you to join us here for a reason Ash."

"We have information on your father" Bruno said leaning forward "I was asking around the league offices a few weeks ago about the Cinnabar incident and Reds disappearance. And one of the G-Men who was on clean-up of Viridian Gym back then mentioned something that's confused me. He said something 'crystal like' was removed and taken as evidence. I asked him to describe it to me and he drew this" pulling out a sketch Ash's breath caught. He'd seen one of these before, in a book his dad had taken from Cameron Palace

"A time flower" Ash muttered looking up "are you certain this is correct? That this is what was taken from the gym?"

"Yes" Bruno said sitting back "the man told me he himself placed in into a wooden box. Where it went after that though he doesn't know. I see you've heard of these then?"

"Yes" Ash said shakily putting the sketch down "they are living time capsules or living cameras. They document an aura guardian's last five minutes of real time. They display to everyone around them a holographic image of the guardian in question, they're often used as training aids for new recruits or living wills for dying guardians and they can only be activated by someone trained in aura usage. If one of these was taken from Viridian gym, then it could only be from my father who obviously wanted people to know what happened. The G-Men wouldn't know how to activate them, so it's likely in storage somewhere. This is critical Bruno; you must find out where it is."

"That's a little difficult Ash" Bruno said "it was taken out of storage a week later; no signature was recorded taking it. I don't have clearance either to find out where it is, if it was authorised to be moved."

"Do you know who does?" Ash asked.

"Lance might as the leader of the G-Men, Goodshow certainly would. The Commissioner of the Police would too" Lorelei said thinking out loud "Blue might as champion."

"Don't ask Blue" Ash said quickly "I still don't trust him."

"Yes" Bruno said chuckling "we heard about Celadon. He received a right earful from his dad over his treatment of you but I don't believe he had anything to do with your father disappearing."

"And until I receive proof either way, I won't be volunteering any information about my dad to him" Ash said with finality. "Thank you, both of you for letting me know. I'll tell mum when the wedding is over. You'd think that mum was getting married with how serious she is about Melanie and Lances big day going smoothly."

"It's no problem" Lorelei said "Ash, I would like to apologise for Cerulean."

"I'm going to stop you right there" Ash said holding up his hand "you have no need to. My mother told me of the situation and your apology you sent to her. As far as I'm concerned, the matter has long since been over with. Your handling of my mother at Porta Vista went a long way to me forgetting anything ever happened. So, I thank you both for what you did for her."

"Shall we agree to move on then?" Bruno asked cheerily.

"Yes" Ash said "thank you for the information. If you get any clues as to where the time flower is, please let me know. I shall leave you to it. Oh, here's my personal number. Let me know what you decide to do about Hailee's training or any questions you may have about Aura. I'll make sure a book is sent to you at the league when I release it. Your decision won't need to be made for many years yet; most only start training around seven so you have plenty of time to decide. Thank you again" standing up Ash walked over to the cot with Lorelei and Bruno curiously following him. Holding his hand over her head he let out a faint pulse and received one back "she's going to be very strong one day. You have a remarkable daughter. I've placed a mark on her so no aura guardians will be able to claim her as an apprentice without your explicit consent until I remove the mark from her, not even I can do so" he said before he left the parents to look at each other curiously.

Heading back on down the path Ash was very silent thinking over what he had just found out. His father had left a piece of evidence he clearly wanted others to know. And it was hidden by someone who obviously knew what it was. That night as they all sat around a fire Ash typed up what he had been told on his new laptop that he had bought in Saffron City. He was very glad he'd bought it as the Pokégear was only designed for limited use. All his ideas, thoughts, evidence and descriptions of Pokémon were on this laptop. He shuddered thinking what would happen if it was stolen. Unfortunately, he had no back up for it just yet and explaining to his Pokémon what happened caused a big debate that went on throughout the night and most of the day after. Sadly, they came up as empty as Bruno was with evidence. Until the time flower was discovered they could speculate all they liked as to what it contained.

Chapter 22: Chapter 22- More Adventures

Chapter Text

Chapter 22- More Adventures

The next few days flew by for Ash. They had come across many trainers along the way who were fairly easy to beat. His team were all showing signs of evolution with how their body structures were forming and it wouldn't be crazy to think they'd all evolve at the same time. It was still some time off yet though and they had many moves that they wanted to learn before they did so. Charmeleon was still struggling with Sunny Day, for some reason his ability Solar Power and Sunny Day severely sapped him of energy when he used any fire move. They would need to get that looked at soon. He had also been going off for half an hour for the last few days practicing moves on his own which caused some concern at the secret he was clearly keeping. Ivysaur was trying to unlock Sludge Bomb now he'd really gotten used to his body. It was an ideal move for him as he was becoming a lot more stationary in battles as he grew larger. Wartortle was trying to learn Sheer Cold, but it wasn't a move Wartortle could normally learn. He decided that he was different and had spent weeks trying to learn it. The most he had come up with was a really cold Blizzard, but it was a start. Pikachu was trying to combine moves that he knew as he had become bored of learning nearly everything a Pikachu could.

"There's still a few moves you can learn you know" Ash said "I received a list from Professor Oak about moves that are common in other regions, there's plenty of electric attacks still left for you. We'll work on a few in Fuchsia."

"Like what?" Pikachu asked.

"Well, there's Shock Wave a move that's fairly low powered and never misses, Zap Cannon, which is very powerful but highly inaccurate and Electro Ball which would be ideal for you as the faster a Pokémon is the more damage it does. So, there's still plenty for us to learn. We can also start on some non-electric moves I've been looking at. We're far from done pal" he finished chuckling.

A few hours later a city came slowly into view for Ash. The closer he walked to it the more perplexed he was getting. The entire place was in darkness, and the smell coming from the buildings was horrible. There were so many factories that were covered in grime and pollution that it was little wonder there was nobody around. Putting a scarf over his face he headed towards the Pokémon centre and walking in he was puzzled as it was empty.

"Is the entire city deserted?" Pikachu asked with a peg on his nose.

"Where did you get the peg?" Ash asked confused "anyway I guess so. The smell is awful so I can't imagine anyone would want to stay here."

At that minute a woman walked in wearing a full hazmat suit. "hello" she said, "are you here to clear out the power plant?"

"Nurse Joy?" Ash asked looking closely at her "is that you in there?"

"It is" she replied, "please tell me you're here to restore power to the city? Some of the Pokémon here are in critical condition".

"Sorry No" Ash said shaking his head "I'm just passing through. What was that you said about the power plant?"

"Something knocked out the generator in the power plant twelve days ago." Joy said "And with it every electrical outlet we have has stopped working, including the healing machines here. We're on emergency back-up but that's quickly running out and if we don't get power back on soon all the Pokémon here will likely perish."

"Oh, that's not good" Ash said, "has the league contacted you at all?"

"No" Joy said "the local Jenny told me she had sent out an S.O.S as soon as it happened but she hasn't received a reply. I thought you were the person they sent to fix it."

"Sadly not" Ash said, "what's that smell by the way?"

"Well, everything in this city is electrically operated, including the sewage disposal buildings. We used to have Grimer living in them that helped get rid of the garbage and waste for the city, but they disappeared just before the blackout."

"Ash, we need to help her" Pikachu said, "I couldn't live with myself knowing we left Pokémon to die without trying to help."

"You're right Pi" Ash said before turning to Joy "we'll go and have a look at the Power Plant for you. We have experience in them."

"You do?" she asked sceptically.

"Yeah" Ash said "we're the ones who rescued the Zapdos a few months ago from the Power Plant near Rock Tunnel so we'll be fine. Hopefully soon you'll have power. If anyone from the league finally turns up let them know I'm sorting it."

Walking out of the building Ash made his way towards the Power Plant, walking along the embankment he noticed that so many of the vents leading from the river were covered in purple goo. "It looks like Grimer have been around these vents Pi. These lead towards the Power Plant, so I suspect the entire generator shut itself off when these sea water vents got clogged up. It's pointless clearing these up from the outside, the vents will need clearing up from inside. Let's see what the Pokédex says about them, maybe we can get advice on beating them.

"Grimer, Pokédex Number 88, the sludge Pokémon, this Pokémon is male. Appears in filthy areas. Thrives by sucking up polluted sludge that is pumped out of factories."

"Nope" Pikachu said "but they're just another Pokémon. We'll just have to beat them to clear them out."

Walking to the Power Plant Ash opened the front door and entered. Immediately the smell from before came back. Putting his scarf back on over his face Ash continued on down the corridor.

"Pi, there seems to be faint life readings a few doors down the corridor. Let's check in and see what's happening" walking down the corridor Ash checked in on the various rooms and found purple goo in various places. Opening the last door Ash walked in and the stench hit him full force causing Ash to fall to his knees and Pikachu to throw up. Gaining his bearings as quickly as he could he noticed the remains of several people. They didn't look like they'd died that long ago. One life form however gave off a faint reading. Rushing to him he cradled the man's head and asked what happened. The man was clearly weak, Ash didn't think he'd live out the hour as his story came out in stilted breaths.

"Grimer attacked...blocked vents…locked in…no power…sent SOS…no food…no help…all dead…so cold." It wasn't long afterwards the man gasped his last breath causing Ash to tear up.

"The league and police have failed these people Pi" Ash said quietly "let's make sure we don't. We're going to have to drive off all the Grimer and wash the vents out. At least we can restore the power." earning a nod from Pikachu Ash called everyone out of their Pokéballs causing them all to gag from the smell. Giving them a quick over-view of what happened Ash told them what their plan was. "We drive the Grimer out of the vents and get the power back on to the generator. Anything that moves is our enemy. Let's go."

Leaving the men inside the room Ash closed the door so no Pokémon could disturb them. Walking on down the corridor Ash checked all the other rooms but found nothing other than traces of goo. At the end of the corridor however stood a double door that was labelled 'Generator Room'. Walking up to it they could hear noises from the other side. "This is it guys. No quarter." Kicking open the door Ash wasn't surprised to find around fifty Grimer just milling about the place. They were clearly surprised though when Ash's Pokémon opened up on them.

"These guys seem never ending don't they" Charmeleon said as he blasted another out of their way and was replaced by another. Slowly but surely though Ash and his team left behind team beaten piles of purple goo. Ash however spotted something that caused his eyes to narrow. Taking out his Pokédex he pointed it at it.

"Muk, Pokedex Number 89, the slime Pokémon, this Pokémon is male. Smells so awful, it can cause fainting. Through degeneration, it lost its sense of smell. It is so toxic, even its footprints contain poison."

"We need to knock that Muk out guys as I think it's the leader. If we drive that away the rest will follow." Again, it seemed like it was never ending but finally they had made their way to the Muk. It was surrounded by six Grimer who were clearly protecting it.

"You have a choice Muk" Ash said talking directly at it "you either leave voluntarily or we make you leave. You've seen what my Pokémon can do, take your friends and leave quietly or leave knocked out." Ash moved sideways to ensure the way out was clear to the Muk, so they knew he was being serious.

Muk glared at Ash, but the message was clearly understood as it shuffled sideways. It had seen the trainer and four Pokémon walk through all his comrades like they were nothing. And while the six he had in front of him were good they weren't good enough to take on trained Pokémon. Nodding at Ash Muk gave orders to the six in front of him who gathered as many of their fallen comrades as possible before they left. The Muk however was the last to leave and turned back to face Ash. Without warning it spat out a Sludge Bomb that landed ten feet away from Ash. Turning away it followed his friends out of the power plant. Ash shook his head and walked towards the generator. Seeing the pipes that fed off them he followed them into a room that had a machine connected to several vents.

"Wartortle, use Hydro Pump down that vent. I think it leads to the outside. We need to clear all four of these out for the generator to start being able to burn up the sea water and function again. I'm afraid you may have to go inside the vents to make sure the end is clear too. Sorry Wartortle."

Giving Ash a glare he nodded and began cleaning the vents. It was laborious for Wartortle who had just been in several battles but an hour later he had cleared three of the vents which now had a fresh supply of water running to it and it started back up. Knowing it needed four working vents Ash nodded at Wartortle who began cleaning the last vent. Twenty minutes later an exhausted Wartortle let the river water carry him back inside where he hopped out in the little vent room.

"Do not make me do that again Ash" Wartortle said "I don't think I'll ever be clean again."

"I'll help you scrub yourself clean Wartortle" Ash said chuckling "well done guys. It seems the generator has started back up so hopefully the power to the city is also back on. We'll have to go back to the control room though to radio for help. That's not going to be fun."

Walking back was a very sombre experience for Ash. He'd seen death before; he'd been the cause of death after all but actively walking back into a room where four dead bodies was decomposing was not a fun thing to do. Trying to ignore the dead men he picked up the phone and called the Pokémon Centre.

"Hello?" the voice came "Ash, is that you?"

"Yeah, it's me Joy" Ash replied "I'm glad the power is back on. I need you to call the police though. The Power Plant workers didn't make it."

"Oh no" Joy said "I was afraid of that. Someone will have to answer for this Ash."

"Believe me Nurse Joy, someone will" Ash said grimly "I'm heading back to the centre now. I just wanted to make sure the power was back on. I'm going to ring Professor Oak and let him know. I'll leave you to ring Jenny and get some very much needed answers."

Hanging up Ash walked outside the power plant where he observed the river. Shaking his head in dismay at how filthy it was he no longer wondered why there was so many Grimer attracted to the city. Sitting down on a bench overlooking the river Ash rang Professor Oak.

"Hi Ash" Sam said cheerfully "everything ok?"

"Hi Sam" Ash said sighing "No, everything isn't ok. I arrived at Gringy City about three hours ago only to find that they've been without power for twelve days now. Joy sent out an SOS as soon as it happened but nobody from the league or the police department have been out to check up on the issue. I volunteered to see what the problem was and made my way to the Power Plant. What I found was not great professor."

"Let me guess Ash" Sam said seriously "the Grimer population had got out of control again and taken over the Power Plant?"

"Yeah" Ash said perplexed "how did you guess that?"

"I've repeatedly reported that place in the past Ash. It needs tearing down and starting again" Sam said, "It is a massive stain on Kanto, but I've been rebuffed at every turn as the problem was rectified a few hours later. The league itself sent someone out last time and whoever it was declared the place fine."

"Well, this time you may be able to get a more fruitful outcome professor as it certainly is not fine" Ash said gritting his teeth "the power plant workers were locked in there the entire time. No food, no water, no help. When I arrived the last person living told me with their dying breath what happened." Hearing a crash from the other end of his phone Ash looked at it in surprise. He was further surprised to hear many faint swear words from Sam from the other end. Sam never swore.

"I've told them repeatedly" Sam said angrily picking his phone back up "that Gringy City needs tearing down. Someone's head is going to roll for this Ash." The line went dead. Sam had hung up. Ash stared at his phone in confusion for a good few minutes as he had never heard Sam be so angry before. Standing up Ash made his way to the Pokémon centre and he was surprised to hear raised voices from inside. Thinking Joy was being attacked Ash kicked open the door shocking the people who were arguing into silence. Marching in Ash gave the Jenny at the counter a glare as he spoke directly to Joy.

"I've just phoned Professor Oak. He's livid. For years he's been advocating for this city to be torn down and started from the ground up. Well now he may be able to get that done after today." Ash said.

"What do you mean" a clearly concerned Jenny said "Gringy City is just fine."

"Just fine?" Joy said interrupting her "Just fine? We have been without power here for twelve days with no help forthcoming, the generator had shut down, Pokémon were dying, you were nowhere to be seen and you have the nerve to say everything is just fine?"

"Sam has said heads will roll" Ash said looking directly at Jenny "what's betting yours is the first?"

"Mine certainly will not be" Jenny shouted at them "I am an officer; my word will be enough to see this nonsense go away."

"Not this time" Ash said, "this time there are four dead bodies in the Power Plant."

"Who's to say it wasn't you who killed them?" Jenny said puffing up in indignation as a plan was clearly formed for them all to see in her head "yes, I am placing you under arrest for the murder of those people!"

"No, you won't" came a voice from the doorway. Everyone looked around to see Blue and Lance standing at the doorway "I might have known you'd be involved again Ash. The last three times I've had a phone call from my dad, you've been involved. Do you like getting me into trouble?"

"I'm not against it" Ash said simply making Lance snort "but like the last three times I've done nothing wrong. Why are you here?"

"Dad rang me about twenty minutes ago" Blue said "he told me Gringy City had been cut off for twelve days and he wanted to know why the league had done nothing about it. I told him I've never been told about an issue regarding here, funnily enough Lance hasn't either, so he pretty much ordered us to find out what's going on."

"Yup" Lance said walking forwards "it seems someone has been intentionally keeping us out of the loop. And now the Power Plant has four dead bodies in it because of whoever is behind the news blackout. There's a crew on the way to recover the bodies and you Miss Jenny are in deep shit. We both overheard what you said, you have a lot of answers we need to hear. Shall we?" he finished holding his palm towards the door.

"I'll need to take both your statements" Blue said as he sat down at the desk. "Tell me from start to finish." Half an hour later they both had finished talking to Blue as Lance walked back in. Sitting down heavily he sighed "It's not good Blue. Those workers have been dead for days now, I'm surprised one survived long enough to talk to you Ash. That he did was amazing. Jenny indicated it was someone high up in the league who ordered her to ignore any issues and to doctor any reports. Your dad is going to be fuming."

"He already is" Ash said leaning back and closing his eyes "I've never heard Sam swear like that before. I don't think even my mum could blame him for doing so either."

Whistling Blue blew out a breath "it must be bad if dad swore. Anyway Joy, we'll be relocating you and the Pokémon to the centre in Fuchsia over the next few days. I doubt this city will be open much longer if my dad has anything to say about it." Standing up he walked out of the building.

"Poor guy" Lance said chuckling as he stood up "it seems lately all he's done is disappoint his old man. It's starting to wear on him. Anyway, I must be off, Melanie is packing for our honeymoon and I kind of abandoned her to come and sort this out" he too followed Blue out of the door leaving Ash and Joy.

Standing up Ash and Joy walked to the doorway ready to part ways.

"Thank you, Ash" Joy said grabbing him into a hug leaving him gasping for air "hopefully I will see you again" blushing heavily at what she'd just done Joy sprinted from the room into the back leaving a bewildered Ash and a laughing Pikachu at what just happened. "It could be a Joy" Pikachu said rolling about laughing on the floor as their conversation from a week ago resurfaced in his mind. As dignified as he could Ash picked up his backpack from the floor and walked out forcing Pikachu to sprint after him.

The next four days were spent just walking along the road chatting about various issues. Wartortle had needed a deep clean to remove all the grime from inside his shell and he had not shut up about it. Ivysaur however had felt strange while battling, Ash knew what it was.

"Your body is getting ready for evolution Ivysaur" Ash said "I've been noticing for a few weeks now, in training you've been struggling with controlling your power, at times it's been immense and at other times it comes in dribbles. But your body has been glowing lately when using certain moves. You're not long off evolving."

"Oh wow, so quickly after Porta Vista?" Ivysaur said "I'd like to hold off for now though. Can you get me an everstone? I'm not ready yet."

"Of course, I can. Fuchsia is about two weeks away now" Ash said "We'll do light training and keep you out of battles as much as we can for now. And yes, don't forget you were the first one of the group to have had a trainer and you also trained after you were abandoned. You're more advanced than they are development-wise but all three of you are very close to your final stages. Within the next six weeks I expect it to have happened. So, you all need to give it some thought."

"I don't" Charmeleon said "I'm evolving when I can. I'm sick of walking."

Laughing the others turned towards Wartortle "I will do too. I don't feel near enough yet, but I also know it's not too far away".

"Then that's that sorted" Pikachu said as they carried on walking. On the fifth day Ash and his team had their training interrupted by the sounds of explosions that sent them sprawling. Quickly packing up Ash raced to where the noises where originating from. As they were running along the road they came upon a scene of devastation. The side of the mountain had blown out onto several trucks which had crashed into each other. From nowhere the ground spilt open and men who were trying to get out of the trucks could be seen frantically trying to escape as the trucks fell into the huge crack.

"Ivysaur" Ash cried releasing him "help as many people as you can get out of those trucks. We'll try and make sure the doors are open for them to do so."

Jumping into the crack onto the trucks Ash and Pikachu smashed open the front windows and helped as many as they could climb out. After twenty minutes everybody was safely on the side of the road.

"Good job Ivysaur" Ash said recalling him. Turning to one of the truck drivers he asked what was going on.

"It's those bloody Diglett!" the man shouted clearly irate "For weeks now they've been causing havoc up here. We're in the process of constructing a dam but every time we send new resources up the mountain, they cause an earthquake and destroy or delay them. They're costing me an absolute fortune!"

"Diglett have done this?" Ash asked perplexed "Diglett are some of the most peaceful Pokémon there are."

"Well clearly not" the man said running off with his workers following him. Shaking his head Ash followed suit at a more sedate pace.

Half an hour later Ash was stopped in his tracks as in front of him were around thirty Diglett and the odd Dugtrio.

"Diglett, Pokédex Number 50, the mole Pokémon. Lives about one yard underground where it feeds on plant roots. It sometimes appears above ground.

Dugtrio, Pokédex number 51, the mole Pokémon. A team of Diglett triplets. It triggers huge earthquakes by burrowing 60 miles underground."

"I wonder what they want" Ash said curiously as they all looked at Ash as one and moved off to the side of the road through a thicket of bushes. The last Dugtrio turned to face Ash and said its name before then following on. Deciding to do the same Ash made his way through the bushes for a good ten minutes before he emerged and stopped in surprise. In front of him was one of the most beautiful scenes he had ever seen. The forest that lay below him was lush, flying Pokémon were flying around their nests in the trees and the fields beyond were a vibrant green. Taking out his Pokégear he snapped a few pictures off.

"I think this is their home Pikachu" Ash said quietly releasing Ivysaur so he could look on with awe "some of these areas we can see is how I envisaged our future home to be Ivysaur. Look at how lush those fields are. The number of wild Pokémon that are able to live in peace because of the work of the Diglett and Dugtrio is amazing. This certainly would be considered an area of outstanding natural beauty and should be preserved as meticulously as it can be. I'll send these pictures on to Sam and see what he thinks. Maybe we can be a part of its conservation Ivysaur, what do you think?"

"I would love that Ash" Ivysaur said tearing up.

"I think we should leave these guys to it" Ash said "The Diglett seem to have it all in hand anyway in dealing with those workers. Eventually it'll get too expensive to carry on and the project will halt." Carefully walking back on himself Ash came to the open road only to see a lone Dugtrio in the road staring at them.

"I will do what I can Dugtrio" Ash said before it could speak "I promise you." Without saying anything the Dugtrio burrowed itself underground and left. Shaking his head Ash carried on the path towards Fuchsia and after twenty minutes Ash came upon the most bizarre thing he had seen in a long time. The man who he had spoken to earlier on was handing out mallets to around thirty people and showing them how to use them on a fake Diglett.

"Now they're quick and sneaky but I have faith you will all get it done. And remember, the one who gets rid of the most will earn that free spa trip for seven days!"

Laughing Ash passed them. That was until he heard a voice speak out. "Well, if it isn't the loser Ashy-Boy. I'm surprised to see you even around given how much of a loser you are."

Turning around Ash faced his 'rival' Gary Oak "and I'm surprised to see you know which way you hold a mallet considering you still need your dad to wipe your arse for you Gary. I see you still have your cheerleaders around too, are you sure you're not compensating for something?" Gary grew red in the face very quickly as the assembled crowd started laughing at his expense. "Why are you here anyway?" Ash asked before Gary could try and insult him again.

"We're here because that bloke over there offered a reward for getting rid of the Diglett" Gary said, "and being the superb trainer that I am I offered my services."

"Ah" Ash said nodding "well, good luck trying to play whack-a-mole with one of the fastest Pokémon around. I for one have no intention of joining this nutcase."

"Who are you calling a nutcase?" the man asked clearly angry.

"You, you imbecile" Ash said looking at the crazy man "Diglett are incredibly quick, what do you think the chances of you getting one with a mallet are? Oh, and Gary, if you take part in this, I will tell your grandfather that you're part of a plot to destroy a Pokémon's home."

"What do you mean?" Gary asked confused.

Taking out his pokegear Ash showed Gary and a few of the people who had gathered round the pictures he had taken earlier. "This is why the Diglett are being destructive. On the other side of that forest is their home, along with every other Pokémon you can see in the pictures. They rely on the water coming through to provide the Diglett and Dugtrio with the means to irrigate the land. Damming that up would cause everything you see to disappear forever. Well, I want no part in it."

Around him the crowd began to mutter as they threw the mallets onto the ground while giving the foreman angry looks. Clearly, he hadn't told them about what they were going to be a part of. Gary quickly followed suit, giving Ash a glare before speeding off as quickly as he could in his car. Shaking his head Ash carried on leaving behind a ranting and raving foreman. Later that evening they were sat around a fire chatting about random things when Ivysaur asked Ash something that had been on his mind.

"Ash, you told me a few weeks ago you wanted me to be the protector of your home."

"Our home Ivysaur" Ash corrected him gently "and yes, I did. Why?"

"Well, I've made my decision. But I'm not sure how to phrase it" Ivysaur said.

"Then just say it." Ash said.

"I want a family, my own family that is. And I'm not sure they'll want to stay wherever we live." Ivysaur said clearly worried.

"Is that all?" Ash said confused "Ivysaur, you don't have to say yes to me you know. Every one of you has your own dreams and ambitions and if your destiny lies outside of our family then so be it. You're all free to come and go as you please you know? So, if you find something better than what I can offer you then I'll do everything I can to help you."

"I don't want to leave though" Ivysaur said quickly "I'm just not sure how I can have a family AND look after our home."

"You want to leave?" Charmeleon asked interrupting them "after everything we've been through together? Why?"

"There's not just going to be you Ivysaur" Ash said "where I have planned to build is a field that is surrounded by a forest that is already teeming with Pokémon, wild Pokémon who will remain wild. Your job will be essentially making sure they're ok from time to time. Everyone is going to pitch in at some point and should you find a family then you can live where you want. All of you, I want you to understand this because it's very important. You are all free to leave at any time you like. I will not keep you here. And if any of you stay and want a family, I will help you do so as much as I'm able and I will even try and find a safe place for you to live. I'm very grateful you're here for me. We've been through a lot together but this is not a transactional family. We do things for each other because we're able to, and even if we disagree with the others decision, we back them up. Charmeleon, you're not going to stay with us permanently and you know this. Ivysaur is saying he might have to consider the same thing."

"You're right" Charmeleon said "I apologise Ivysaur. You guys are all I have in this world. But I'm not leaving you Ash."

"Me neither" Wartortle said before Ash interrupted him.

"And I'm grateful but that's not the issue here. Ivysaur is entitled to have a family and live where he wants. You guys saying you're not going to leave, while nice puts pressure on him and we don't work like that. I gave you first option Ivysaur because of who you are at your core. You're a protector and a nurturer and you're the ideal candidate for tending to the grounds of our future home. If you just want to be included on the creation of our garden and tend to that then that's fine too. If you want to live with whatever family you find in the future then that is too. Just know you'll always have a home with us."

Nodding Ivysaur walked into the tent leaving the others to quietly contemplate the conversation they had just had. The next few days passed by as they all knew they were getting closer and closer to Fuchsia Gym. Looking on his Pokégear Ash noticed something odd.

"Guys, Fuchsia City doesn't have a gym" Ash said looking up at them perplexed "Apparently it's just outside of the city."

"Well how can it be called Fuchsia Gym then if it's not in the city?" Wartortle asked confused.

"That's what I'm wondering" Ash said, "let me give Sam a call."

Sam picked up not long after he had dialled.

"Hi Ash" Sam said tiredly "what can I do for you?"

"Are you ok Professor?" Ash asked concerned.

"No Ash" Sam said "I have the flu. I'll be ok, your mum has been round with food for me. Honestly, I owe that woman so much."

"She's an angel isn't she" Ash said rhetorically "anyway I'll make this quick then. Fuchsia Gym, where is it?"

"Oh" Sam said "it's on the west side of the city. The road you're on now in fact leads to it but it's down a little dirt track that can be easy to miss. Koga is a ninja and trains others in his art, so his house is full of surprises. Be careful Ash" Sam said before coughing violently. Wishing Sam a speedy recovery Ash hung up and informed the rest of what was said.

"Full of surprises?" Ivysaur asked "what does that mean?"

"Well given he's supposedly a Ninja it's likely a stealth based gym full of traps" Ash said, "There could be anything really."

A few hours later Pikachu pointed out something strange on the path. It was a set of bushes at the side of a tiny little path that led away from the main road. "You think this is the path to Koga?" Pikachu asked.

"It seems the most likely yeah" Ash said walking warily down the road. For the last few months Ash had constantly been sending out his aura to the point it was now a rare occasion that he didn't expend it. So, heading down the path Ash was walking around various traps as if they weren't there until a house slowly came into view. It was a big beautiful Japanese style house that seemed to be made of different woods.

"It's very pretty" Ash said as they walked up to the door "but it's so dangerous too" he finished looking at the faint wire going from the door handle up to the roof. Taking out a pair of scissors Ash simply snipped the wire and walked inside and stopped in a grand entrance hall with doors leading off at both sides "I've seen far too many movies Pi and they all seem to want to take the most elaborate route through people's houses. I never understood why when going straight ahead is an option. It seems either left or right is the only option here though. Which way Pi?"

"Left" Pi said shrugging "it doesn't really make a difference, does it?"

"No, I suppose not. Be on guard though Pi" Ash said as he opened the door on the left and was immediately confronted with a hallway with many doors on it. He never noticed the camera move his way following his path. Looking upwards he noticed several things that shouldn't be there among the various tiles.

"There are Pokémon in the tiles above Pi. I think if we choose the wrong door we'll be attacked." Ash said shaking his head.

"Shall we not just blast them pre-emptively?" Pikachu asked.

"No, I'm kind of looking forward to solving all these puzzles. It makes a nice change to use our brains every now and then, don't you think? And, if worst comes to worst I'll let you loose, how about that?" Ash asked.

"Deal" Pi said bounding forward to the first door as Ash followed him. Slowly but surely Ash and Pikachu eliminated several doors that had various traps on them. Cautiously walking around tiles on the floor with pressure pads that obviously sprung the roof inhabitants on them they were left with two doors to choose.

"I think we go right here Pi" Ash said nodding at it "the one to the left isn't trapped. The one to the right however has several signatures just ahead of it so it's clearly another hallway."

This carried on for another twenty minutes as Ash and Pikachu progressed through the gym. Occasionally they'd make too much noise and the roof inhabitants, which turned out to be Voltorb were quickly dealt with before they could explode.

In a room not far from them two people observed them. "he's making quick work of our traps father. At this rate he'll reach the gym room in no time."

"Indeed" Koga replied, "so what do you propose?"

"I will challenge him. I don't like how much of a mockery he is making our gym challenge." Janine said "Venonat and I will take care of him" she finished leaving the room causing Koga to shake his head. She was still far too headstrong to be analytical at the crucial moments. Hopefully this challenger would put things into perspective for her.

Ash and Pikachu had so far cleared three corridors. Entering the fourth they halted. There were no traps in this corridor but at the end of it was a single Pokémon. A Venonat was standing staring at them. Ash and Pikachu cautiously walked forward until they were twenty feet from it and pulled out Dexter.

"Venonat, Pokédex Number 48, the insect Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. Its large eyes act as radars. In a bright place, you can see that they are clusters of many tiny eyes."

Suddenly it took off down the corridor and entered a door on the right. Pikachu was about to go chasing after it when Ash stopped him and continued walking slowly down the hall. "it's leading us into a trap Pi. We've encountered no-one and nothing except Voltorb since entering this place. Now all of a sudden, a Venonat is in our way, and it runs off? No this is another trap. We continue at our pace and let them come to us. It's a pretty pathetic attempt to be honest. I expected more."

"How dare you?" a voice said from behind him causing Ash to slowly turn around smirking and face a young woman with purple hair, wearing a ninja outfit glaring at him who had clearly come from a space in the roof.

"I was wondering when you'd come down from the ceiling" Ash said, "I've known you were there ever since I entered the corridor."

"How?" she asked her face full of fury "how have you made it past all the traps?"

"Easily" Ash said smirking which caused her to leap forward and attack him. Ash simply moved out of her way and in three moves had her pinned onto the floor with her arm twisted behind her back causing her considerable pain. "Now, since I'm in a good mood and I now seemingly own an extra arm, perhaps you can tell me who you are and why you attacked me."

"I will tell you nothing" Janine said squirming. Ash simply wrenched her arm up causing her to scream and shout her name "OK, OK. Stop! My names Janine! My father runs the gym."

"See now that wasn't too hard, was it?" Ash said easing up on her arm "now why don't we start again? Who are you and why did you attack me?"

"My name is Janine; I'm training to be a ninja. I attacked you because you insulted our gym. I couldn't let the insult slide" Janine said as tears welled up in her eyes from the pain.

"And because of our ego you nearly had a broken arm" Ash said letting go "let this be a lesson, never assume that because you're trained in a martial art that you're the only one. Now, my name is Ash Ketchum. Shall we go and see your dad? I have a badge to win."

Standing up and rubbing her shoulder she gave him a glare before walking off with Ash following her down a couple more corridors. Finally, they came to a door. Janine stopped short and smartened herself up before walking into the room. In the room a man sat facing away from them, cross legged on a mat with his eyes closed.

"Father, I bring you your next challenger Ash Ketchum" Janine said bowing before standing off to the side as the man slowly stood up and turned to face Ash.

"I know who he is Janine" Koga said giving Ash a small head bow, one that was returned by Ash "his exploits, as few as they are in the short amount of time he has been a trainer are sure to evolve into legend."

"You knew and didn't tell me?" Janine asked outraged.

"Mind your manners Janine" Koga said severely giving her a glare "it seems yet again you let your impatience and arrogance get the better of you. You need to stop letting words get to you or next time it could be more than a wrenched arm you suffer. Yes, I know what happened and I thank you Mr Ketchum for your restraint. Not many would do so" he finished giving Ash another small bow.

"The thanks are welcome yet unnecessary Master Koga" Ash said nodding back as his training came back to him. While he was training with the Lucario, as much as he resented who they worked for he could never fault them for their manners and poise. His main issue was who they reported to, other than that their lessons were still well received. And respect for someone giving you respect was drummed into him. He might be unbeaten in years by them, but they always gave their all in a fight, never backed down and won or lost with honour. The respect aspect came back to him as soon as he heard Koga's words. "I was once like your daughter; I still am if truth be told on occasion, but I had honour and respect drummed into me from a young age from my trainers. You personally have not slighted me, so I see no reason to be rude to you. Now, I am here for a gym battle and badge. Is the gym nearby?"

"Indeed, it is" Koga said leading the way through the door "I should like to know who your trainer is before we part ways though. Janine has been training in Jujitsu and Gung Fu for many years now and for you to take her down so easily earns your trainer's significant credit."

"Oh, it's no secret Master Koga" Ash said as they walked out of the gym to the back where the battlefield was. "I was trained in Aura combat by the Lucario of Cameron Palace from the age of six. I was unbeaten by any of them from the age of ten and I frequently spar with my Pokémon to keep up my reflexes."

"An aura guardian" Koga said with obvious distaste "I had hoped for something different."

"No" Ash said vehemently "I refuse to serve their queen. I am an Aura Wielder. I will not be shackled by some woman who has done literally nothing with her life because tradition dictates so."

"My apologies" Koga said, "I had not meant for my obvious distaste to come out in such a manner."

"Why are you irritated by her?" Ash asked curiously.

"It's not just her" Janine said from the side-lines "my cousin is her chief errand boy."

"Riley?" Ash asked bewildered "Guardian Riley is your cousin? I hold no love for that man after the pain he caused my mother by attacking me when I was six."

"Yes" Koga said "Karate Dojo Master Richard is my brother-in-law; his son is Riley. And ever since he took up the call of aura, he has disowned us in favour of his Queen. My sister told us recently of that episode. She was less than impressed with him but that is family business and has no place here. Now, the battle. It shall be four on four, either side can swap out at any time however when one person is down to two it becomes a knockout battle only. Meaning should you beat two of my Pokémon you can no longer swap out and vice-versa".

"That's convenient" Ash said laughing "I only have four Pokémon. Your rules are acceptable. Let's go Wartortle" he said releasing the shiny turtle.

"Golbat, you're up" Koga said releasing a huge bat. Pointing Dexter at it he beeped

"Golbat, Pokedex Number 42, The Bat Pokémon and the evolved form of Zubat. This Pokémon is male. It attacks in a stealthy manner, without warning. Its sharp fangs are used to bite and suck blood. Once it strikes, it will not stop draining energy from the victim even if it gets too heavy to fly."

"Interesting" Ash said "I've been wanting to battle a properly trained one of these for a while now. Wartortle, let's start off strong and use Hydro Pump" at Ash's command a huge geyser of water strafed its way towards the frantically flapping Golbat.

"Golbat, focus. Fly around it, head towards it and use Toxic" Koga said

"Shit, Wartortle whatever happens you cannot be hit with that move. Hide in your shell and keep up the Hydro Pump. It can't dodge forever."

"My Pokémon are trained in evasion techniques Mr Ketchum, believe me we can. Golbat, Double Team and Toxic." Koga commanded "Let's see what you can come up with now Mr Ketchum" he added quietly as duplicates of Golbat appeared on the battlefield and began shooting blobs of poisonous gunk at the turtle.

"Wartortle come out of your shell. It's at 4 o'clock, Ice Beam" immediately Wartortle did as he was asked and shot a bright beam of ice at the startled bat who went flying backwards from the super-effective attack. It clearly did significant damage as its wings were covered in frost and it was barely hovering off the ground, but it had done what it had been asked. On Wartortles right arm was a purple blob that slowly was spreading upwards.

"How did you know where it was?" Janine asked surprised.

"That's my secret for now" Ash said concerned for his Pokémon "Wartortle Aqua Jet and finish it".

Golbat had no chance after being hit by the Ice Beam and succumbed to the attack of Wartortles. Wartortle however landed back on Ash's side and knelt down panting clearly affected by the poison that was running through his body. Cursing his luck Ash waited for Koga's next Pokémon.

"Golbat is unable to battle. Wartortle wins. Father, choose your next Pokémon" Janine said from the sidelines.

"Your Wartortle is stronger than I thought but it won't last much longer. You should consider withdrawing him." Koga said.

"I know" Ash said nodding "and depending on who your next Pokémon will be will influence my decision."

Shrugging his shoulders Koga released his second Pokémon which was a Muk.

"Ok Wartortle, we likely only have a few shots left before I'm taking you out. Use Ice Beam" Taking a deep breath to centre himself Wartortle let out an icy beam which quickly sped towards the Muk.

"Use Acid Armour Muk followed by Sludge Bomb" Muk did the strangest thing Ash had seen in a long time. It melted itself letting the Ice Beam go overhead before rearranging itself and firing out gobs of toxic sludge at Wartortle who did his best to dodge but was finally hit by one sending him sprawling back. Righting himself he went back down to one knee as a purple mist appeared to come out of Wartortles mouth.

"Damn" Ash said "I forfeit Wartortle" recalling the turtle he rummaged in his bag for a full heal. Attaching it to the ball he clicked on it and a quarter of the bottle was emptied into the pokeball. Ash would still need to visit a Pokémon Centre to make sure no toxins stayed in Wartortles bloodstream but hopefully the full heal helped. "I hate Toxic strats" he mumbled but was clearly overheard by Koga.

"It is how I battle and the nature of this gym" He said "we use every form of status affecting and evasion strategies available to see how the opponent can overcome them. My gym is all about how you react when all seems lost."

"Wartortle is unable to battle. Muk wins. Challenger, choose your next Pokémon" Janine said.

"Let's go Ivysaur" Ash said releasing him "get in close and use Body Slam" Ivysaur charged at the Muk and leapt into the air.

"Muk, use Minimize and Sludge Bomb" Muk obeyed and seemed to shrink in an instant enabling the Body Slam to miss. Before Ivysaur could react, it unshrank itself and fire purple globs at his back and sent him flying ten feet. Shaking off the attack Ivysaur turned around to face Muk.

"Sunny Day" Ash said as Ivysaur produced a concentrated ball of light and shot it towards the sky where the clouds disappeared, and the sun's rays intensified. "It's risky but Ivysaur return, let's go Charmeleon and use Flamethrower" he said recalling Ivysaur and releasing his Charmeleon. Immediately he launched a huge spray of fire to the Muk who had no chance of dodging the widespread attack and was severely burned. Charmeleon however dropped onto one knee panting.

"Get in close and use Dragon Claw, no fire attacks until the sun goes away" righting himself he charged at the Muk who was wincing with the burn he had received and slashed away. With one big final blow he sent Muk flying over to Koga's side. Again, Charmeleon went down on to one knee panting from the effort.

"Muk is unable to battle. Charmeleon wins. From now on this match is knockout only" Janine said.

"Is your Charmeleon ok?" Koga asked Ash.

"Yeah, he will be." Ash said looking at his still kneeling Pokémon "His ability is Solar Power, meaning his fire moves get powered up in sunlight but for some reason it drains him of energy when a fire move is used."

"That is normal" Koga said surprising Ash "Solar Power uses the Pokémon's life force to power specialty moves, as such a Pokémon usually only has a limited time to beat an opponent before the drain becomes too severe and they pass out. The drain on your Charmeleon though isn't normal, it seems very excessive for the use of a single Flamethrower. When he evolves, I would suggest you take him to the Charicific Valley where he can learn to control the ability, for now though I would suggest limiting the fire moves you use when sunlight is activated."

"I will" Ash said nodding "I had that place in mind, but I was looking at other options as well further away to help him in his current form. Anyway, shall we battle?"

"Indeed" Koga said nodding and taking out another pokeball "Let's go Venomoth". Out of the ball came a bright blue moth. Ash was surprised it was shiny, but it was very pretty.

"Venomoth, Pokedex number 49, the Poison Moth Pokémon and the evolved form of Venonat. This Pokémon is male. The powdery scales on its wings are hard to remove. They also contain poison that leaks out on contact."

"Interesting. I take it its because you know we're limited on using fire moves?" Ash said smiling wryly.

"Exactly that" Koga said smirking "Venomoth use Stun Spore" flying up into the air it twisted and turned and with every flap it released a yellow powder that floated down to the ground covering the entire battlefield.

"Don't let it hit you Charmeleon, use Dragonbreath" Charmeleon opened its mouth and a chartreuse beam of light came out and lanced its way towards the Venomoth who twisted and turned out of the way. Ash could see the paralysing powder was going to hit his Pokémon and called out a desperate move "Charmeleon, we have no choice, the powder is going to hit so let's make sure we deal damage to help Ivysaur. Use Flamethrower!"

Charmeleon dug into himself. He was angry that he was so powerless in the sun when he should be strong, angry that he was about to be toyed with and angry that he was going to be beaten by something he had type advantage over. So, he set his feet and calculated where Venomoth would be and let loose with the biggest ball of fire he had ever used. Venomoth had very little choice in taking the hit as Charmeleon had calculated correctly in his movements. It was not Flamethrower that came out though, it was clearly much stronger than that. All three trainers looked on in horror at what happened next. The impact was bad, the sound Venomoth made was horrendous, but the outcome was a no brainer. Venomoth was out for the count and had severe burns littering its body. Charmeleon passed out too, but Ash didn't care as he grabbed a full restore out of his bag, sprinted towards the severely burned Pokémon and began applying it all over its body. Koga and Janine joined him but didn't disturb him. After he had done that, he focused his Aura and repeatedly expended it on the most vulnerable parts of the moth's body until the burns receded as he healed him as best he could. After twenty minutes of this Ash sat back on his haunches panting slightly. Running a quick scan on the moth he breathed a sigh of relief.

"Venomoth should be fine, he shouldn't battle for a week, after that it will take another week of light training before he's battle ready again. I am so sorry about what just happened" Ash said looking over to his still passed out Charmeleon who had an angry looking Pikachu standing next to him glaring at his fallen form "I have no excuse for what he did, I can only apologise and promise it won't happen again."

"Won't happen again?" Janine screeched "Venomoth could have been killed!"

"Peace Janine" Koga said frowning "we both heard what attack Ash called out. What came out though was not a Flamethrower. Clearly, his pride was being wounded by being powerless against what he saw as an inferior opponent".

"That is not an excuse" Ash said standing up as Koga recalled his fallen Pokémon "Charmeleon has no excuse for what he just did. I will gladly take whatever punishment you deem sufficient."

"Well, I'm enjoying this battle far too much to disqualify you." Koga said looking at Ash shrewdly "however the league officials will not be so lenient. Your quick thinking and healing of my Pokémon is sufficient for now. This last battle will be a one-on-one, you will not be able to use your final unused Pokémon. As your Ivysaur is still active in battle that will be your final Pokémon. Your moves will be reset back to four."

Ash bowed his head and walked back to his side of the field recalling Charmeleon. There will be words later. Harsh ones. "Let's go Ivysaur" he said releasing his Pokémon. "because of Charmeleon this will now be a one-on-one battle for the badge with all your moves available. I'll explain to you and Wartortle later on, it's not going to be a pleasant conversation."

Nodding uncertainly Ivysaur walked onto his section of the field and waited for his opponent.

"Now because you're an Advanced trainer you're going to face an advanced Pokémon. This one is vying for a spot in my Elites, let's see how you do" Koga said as he released the strangest Pokémon Ash had ever seen. It reminded him of seaweed. Pointing Dexter at it he beeped.

"Dragalge, Pokedex Number 691, the Mock Kelp Pokémon and the evolved form of Skrelp. This Pokémon is female. Their poison is strong enough to eat through the hull of a tanker, and they spit it indiscriminately at anything that enters their territory."

"Is that from Unova?" Ash asked.

"Alola" Koga said correcting him "a friend of mine sent her to me as a birthday gift a few years ago as a Skrelp. She's magnificent, isn't she?"

"She certainly is" Ash said nodding "what's its typing?"

"It is a dual type. One is poison. Let's see if you can guess the other in battle" Koga said, "Dragalge use Sludge Bomb."

Quickly before they could react four globs of ooze came flying towards Ivysaur. "Use your own Sludge Bomb Ivysaur" Ash surprising Koga.

"How does Ivysaur know that move?" Koga asked.

"It's his egg move" Ash said smirking "get in close Ivysaur, use Stun Spore, let's see how they like status moves" Ivysaur shook his bulb and scattered the paralysing powder all over the field.

"Sludge Bomb again" Koga commanded.

"Match them Ivysaur" Ash said smiling enjoying this battle. It was perfect for Ash he thought. He had needed to battle someone who was using a faster Pokémon to be able to utilise Ivysaur's static nature. He would need to be able to counter Pokémon like Dragalge in future so every battle like this helped.

"Dragalge this is getting us nowhere. Use Outrage" Koga said smirking confident of victory.

Ash had been planning for this. He had the strategy in mind from the very beginning to take down the faster Pokémon. All he needed was a direct contact move. "Perfect" Ash said smiling causing concern for Koga "take the hit but wrap it up in your vines when you do so."

"You expect your Pokémon to take a head on Outrage?" Janine asked from the sides forgetting she was the referee. Ash simply smiled as Ivysaur was sent flying but not before wrapping Dragalge up in his vines and tightening his hold. Coming to a screeching halt, the effects of the move was clear to be seen as Ivysaur was battered and bruised but he had survived the impact. "Drag it in and squeeze" Ash said as Ivysaur did just that causing Dragalge to flail around as the air was slowly squeezed out of it.

"Dragalge you have to get out of there!" Koga said concerned "Use Outrage again to free yourself."

"Oh no you don't" Ash said "Ivysaur, use Leech Seed and keep squeezing."

From Ivysaurs bulb came a peculiar seed that impacted the middle of Dragalge's forehead before it quickly spread all over her body and lit up further draining her of energy and being absorbed into Ivysaur who was slowly being healed. "Use Sunny Day and power it up" Ash said smiling. The match was over, he knew it. It was simply a formality he thought as Ivysaurs bulb sent a pulse of light into the sky intensifying the suns rays.

"I forfeit my Dragalge" Koga said looking over at a shocked Janine.

"Dragalge is unable to battle, Ivysaur and Ash wins" Janine managed to stammer out.

Retracting its vines Ivysaur walked back to Ash who knelt down and pat him on the head "you were amazing Ivysaur. That strategy was played to perfection so well done. I'll talk to you later on." Recalling Ivysaur Ash walked over to Koga who was knelt down next to his Dragalge whispering words of comfort to her before he to recalled her.

"Congratulations Ash" Koga said "you countered Dragalge perfectly and used moves exactly when you should have done. As such I present you with the Rainbowbadge."

Shaking Kogas hand Ash pinned the badge to the inside of his vest "thank you Koga, that battle was exactly what Ivysaur and I needed."

"Oh? How so?" Koga asked curiously as they walked off the battlefield into the sitting room where they met.

"Ivysaur is becoming more and more static as he progresses" Ash said "His evolved form of Venusaur is virtually unable to move in battle. As such it makes them a defensive juggernaut but also an easy target, so we've been coming up with ideas to help him gain ideas for when he does evolve. We always knew he'd need to be able to tank attacks, it was what we did to react in that situation that we've been working on. We were also lucky that you reset the moves as I don't know what I would have done being so limited."

"Your strategy was sound" Koga said nodding at the explanation "how do you plan on dealing with Charmeleon?"

"I have no idea really" Ash said frowning "my Pokémon and I usually keep his ego in check as we all do for each other, I know Pikachu is livid with his actions" which earned an angry nod from said Pokémon and a 'Pi'. "We never act out like that, what affects one of us affects all of us and Charmeleons arrogance nearly cost more than a badge today, he nearly cost a life. And after everything we've been through as a team that's very nearly unforgivable."

"And yet I have forgiven you" Koga said earning a surprised look from Janine and Ash "because of your actions Venomoth is going to be fine, because of your past actions I know it's not just words coming from you and because of your demeanour I know this will be taken seriously so it doesn't happen again. Charmeleons actions were his own."

"And I am still his trainer" Ash said interrupting him "and I bear the responsibility of his actions. I thank you though for your words, they mean a lot. I must be going now though; some serious conversations must be had."

"Very well" Koga said escorting Ash out of a door that led to the entrance. As they reached the front door Koga shook Ash's hand and handed him a parting gift.

"Its TM06 Toxic, the move as you have seen can be a game changer but also deadly so make sure you use it wisely. I shall keep a look out for you at the league Ash. I expect great things from you." With that Koga walked back inside and Ash walked back down the path walking around the traps again until they were back on the road. The entire time Pikachu and Ash walked in silence. Reaching a signpost, they saw the legend Fuchsia City 16km and breathed a sigh of relief. They would soon be at their destination. Stopping for the evening at the side of a river Ash called out Wartortle and Ivysaur. They would need to be told what happened and decide amongst themselves what Charmeleons punishment would be. Tonight was not going to be fun.

Chapter 23: Chapter 23- A New Addition

Chapter Text

Chapter 23

Ash called out Ivysaur and Wartortle around the campsite. Making them food to distract himself the other three quietly sat and ate. After they had finished Ash sighed heavily.

"Ok, to start with how are you feeling Wartortle?" Ash asked.

"I'm feeling ok. Still twinging a bit though." Wartortle said moving heavily into a more comfortable position.

"I'm going to attach a full restore to your Pokéball tonight" Ash said wincing "Hopefully by morning you'll feel much better but we're just outside of Fuchsia, so I'll give you to Nurse Joy as soon as possible."

"Thanks Ash" Wartortle asked looking around at the others. Pikachu looked grim and angry, Ivysaur looked as confused as him and Ash looked resigned. He also noticed Charmeleons dish full but no Charmeleon eating "Ok, I'll ask. Why isn't Charmeleon out here?"

Sighing Ash told them what happened in the battle "It was bad guys" Ash finished.

"It was worse than that Ash" Pikachu interrupted "If it wasn't for your quick thinking and if you couldn't heal with your aura that Venomoth may never have woken up, never mind battled again. What the hell was he thinking disobeying your command in battle to use a move he's never used in practice before?"

"Ah but he has" Wartortle said wryly "we've all noticed him sneaking off, we all noticed fire springing up from where he snuck off to. Clearly, he was planning on using that move, whatever it was."

"It was the beginning stage of Blast Burn" Ash said looking away from them "it's the most potent and powerful fire type attack there is. Whatever it hits it incinerates until nothing in the blast radius survives. If it hits you Ivysaur you'd be instantly killed and there would be no remains to bury. It's the very reason I've never let Charmeleon use any fire attacks on you in training. You are mortally weak to fire. So was Venomoth and he knows this. Any unsanctioned trainer caught using the move faces heavy penalties, the potential loss of his or her licence and the Pokémon in question is evaluated and if need be, destroyed. The league doesn't mess around with this move."

"So, what are we going to do?" Ivysaur asked "are you going to punish him?"

"He needs some form of punishment" Pikachu said angrily "Ash called you two out to come to a decision together on what it should be before we call him out and get his side. If I had my way I'd pummel him until he becomes unconscious for what he almost cost us all."

"I don't know Ash" Wartortle said wincing as he shrugged "I'm not great at coming up with ideas."

"When you lead the Squirtle Squad how did you deal with situations?" Ivysaur asked.

"I wasn't really the leader, just the one they chose to come to as I was the biggest" Wartortle said "There was only one instance of what could be classed as insubordination, but I stamped that out straight away by beating them in a battle. Sorry Ash, I don't have any ideas."

"I have one" Ash said, "but I'm reluctant to go through with it."

"Go on" Pikachu said.

Ash outlined his plan for Charmeleon after explaining why he felt it was necessary. Nodding the other three agreed it was likely the best option available. "You'll need to get permission first though Ash, it's pointless saying this until that plan is approved."

"You're correct" Ash said as he took out his Pokégear and rang Professor Oak.

"Hi Ash" Sam said still looking very ill "what's up, it's quite late you know."

"I know professor and I'm sorry but it's urgent" Ash said "Something happened at the gym today while fighting Koga. Charmeleon used Blast Burn on Koga's Venomoth."

"Who taught him that Ash?" Sam said sounding serious "you know the penalty for using that move without having the league sanction."

"I'm aware" Ash said nodding "he's been secretly teaching himself it seems over the last few weeks. He's been going off during training, we just thought he wanted to train in private for a bit. But during the battle I ordered him to use Flamethrower and instead he used Blast Burn, or the beginnings of it at least. It still did significant damage to Venomoth, so much so that if I didn't have a full restore and my aura healing abilities Venomoth would now be dead and Charmeleon would be scheduled for destruction."

"I'm glad you realise the seriousness of the situation Ash" Sam said, "what did Koga say?"

"Koga forgave me because he knew what I ordered and that Charmeleon acted of his own accord" Ash replied "Healing Venomoth myself went a long way to earning that forgiveness too."

"You are aware that I will now officially have to place a mark on yours and Charmeleons record as having access to that move, however primitive it is?" Sam asked.

"I am, it's why I told you professor" Ash replied "And after discussing it with the others we've come to a decision. Charmeleon needs to be punished for what he did. Now if Pikachu had his way, he'd break Charmeleons legs for what he almost cost us. The rest of us however struggled to come up with anything but I had an idea though and wanted to run it by you." hearing a "go on" Ash told Sam of his idea and what he thought.

"I don't really think that will be a problem" Sam said chuckling "you know how much he adores you and putting him in his place will only serve to endear you to him further. When do you reach Fuchsia?"

"A few days yet. We're about ten miles away now." Ash said.

"Very well" Sam replied, "I'll set it up and I'll send you a message when it's set up." With that Sam hung up leaving a very quiet campsite. Sighing Ash pulled out Charmeleons Pokéball "we better get this over with. Come on out Charmeleon."

Charmeleon came out of his Pokéball and stretched. Noticing his food, he started to dig in and it was only when he was nearly finished that he noticed he was the only one eating. The rest were all staring at him, Pikachu looked livid, Ivysaur worried, Wartortle resigned, and Ash concerned. Putting his dish down he looked at them all wondering what was going on.

"Er, is everything ok?" he asked. It was the wrong thing to say as Pikachu exploded forwards. It was only the quick reflexes of Ivysaur who already had his vines out to grab the irate Pikachu that stopped the brawl that was about to happen. It didn't stop Pikachu's mouth though from talking.

"Are you seriously asking us that question? After the stunt you pulled in Koga's gym? Do you have the slightest clue what you could have cost us? Ivysaur let me down, I'm going to kick the shit out of him."

"No, you will not" Ash said grabbing hold of Pikachu as Ivysaur retracted his vines. "Now I'm going to ask you this once, and if I don't get the truth, I'll let Pikachu go".

Pikachu was very eager it seemed as he started sparking threateningly "Who taught you Blast Burn?"

"Blast Burn?" Charmeleon asked "I've never heard of the move."

"The move you used against Venomoth, moron" Pikachu said getting ready to launch himself forwards "who taught you that move?"

"Oh, is that what it's called?" Charmeleon said confused "No one did, I've been teaching myself for the last few weeks. I've never been able to pull it off before though. Did it work? Did we win?"

"Did it work?" Ash asked incredulously "Are you so utterly clueless?"

"Clearly he is Ash" Ivysaur said looking sad "looking at him you know he doesn't feel as though he's done anything wrong."

"We were in a battle" Charmeleon said defiantly "I used a move that I'd been training on, and it worked. I fail to understand what I did wrong here."

"You disobeyed Ash" Pikachu said shaking his head "that's one, you also used a move that is incredibly dangerous without proper training, that's two. Not only that but it's one of a handful of moves that is extremely regulated and needs league sanctioning before you can use it."

"Well, I didn't know that did I?" Charmeleon said belligerently.

"You nearly killed the Venomoth!" Ash said "If it wasn't for my quick thinking, I would now have my Pokémon licence taken away and facing financial sanctions, our family would be broken up and you would be set for destruction! There's a reason I haven't begun to teach you that move yet."

"Well, I didn't know did I?" Charmeleon said shaking his head "I'm sorry, ok?"

"No, it's not ok" Ash said sadly "I've had to tell Professor Oak about it. He's had to place a mark on our profiles. Until we win a league, we will always have that mark. You could have cost us everything Charmeleon."

"I've already said I didn't know" he said angrily.

"Well ignorance is not an excuse" Ash said firmly "so we're going to discuss your punishment."

"Punishment?" he asked baffled "for using a move?"

"No, you moron" Wartortle said standing up wincing "your punishment is because you disobeyed a command in a battle and nearly cost us everything. It's clear he doesn't understand the severity of what he did Ash. I'm fully behind the punishment."

"I rang Sam" Ash said interrupting any form of response "when we reach Fuchsia City tomorrow you will be transferred to him for the next week where you will shadow him, and you will do everything he says as well as helping out around the ranch. Any belligerence on your part will be dealt with by his Charizard and believe me you do not want to cross Charizard. You will not get into any battles, but you will keep up your usual training. Hopefully by the time you are back with us you've learned the error of what you have done."

"You're abandoning me?" Charmeleon said standing up looking livid "after everything I've done for you."

"You do not get to even start being angry" Pikachu said sparking causing Charmeleon to take a step back "this is lenient compared to what I wanted to do. Hopefully learning with Sam and Charizard humbles you. You have utterly disappointed this family with your actions."

"Hopefully you will learn a valuable lesson, I was considering leaving you with Sam until we next reached Pallet Town" Ash said standing up "the week will soon pass. Hopefully you'll use this time to better your attitude. Come on guys, time for bed." Everyone stood up and walked into the tent not even looking back leaving a shocked Charmeleon to slump down beside the campfire and replay what had just happened in his mind.

Ash woke up the next morning to find Charmeleon had come into the tent and retreated back into his Pokéball sometime in the night. Going through their usual morning routine the gang were solemnly quiet and very efficient. It seemed one of them stepping out of line and putting the rest at risk had given them a single-minded purpose this morning as they all helped each other out with moves more than they usually did.

"Ash" Ivysaur said quietly as they finished packing up "what if he genuinely didn't know what the move did as he says he didn't?"

"That's not the issue Ivysaur" Pikachu said before Ash could answer "the fact is we're all a family, and decisions like the one he took affect us all. If he was having trouble with a move he should have asked for help, that way Ash could have dissuaded him from learning that attack and given him the reason why. Using an untrained move, in a battle situation against a Pokémon he knows is mortally weak against said move is not the place to do so."

"He needs to learn Ivysaur" Ash said "that his actions have consequences. He could have killed Venomoth. The move I ordered, Flamethrower would have done the job I asked for and beaten the Venomoth but it would only have knocked it out. His ego and pride overcame him, and the result was bad. I just hope he learns from it with Sam and Charizard because believe me Oaks Charizard is still a force of nature in itself. He won't tolerate arrogance. Plus, Charmeleon needs to learn this lesson from a fellow fire type. Charizard knows Blast Burn and has only ever used it twice. Both times were to save a Pokémon's life. That's why I suggested the punishment I did, I wanted it to be until we next reached Pallet Town but that could be six to eight weeks from now. He will hopefully learn and grow from this."

"Ah" Ivysaur said nodding "I understand better now. It's not so much a punishment as helping Charmeleon learn a life lesson?"

"Exactly" Ash said shouldering his backpack "let's go. We should make Fuchsia by Saturday."

The rest of the journey was done in silence. Ash had recalled Ivysaur and Wartortle as the road was getting busier with the people coming and going into the city. Just after noon on the Saturday Ash arrived at the Pokémon Centre and handed his Pokémon over to Nurse Joy while he went up to his room and showered. It was underrated Ash thought, being clean by actual hot water. People underestimated how nice a hot shower can be. Going downstairs Ash took his Pokémon back and called Sam to transfer Charmeleon over. Giving the pokeball a head shake he placed it onto the transporter and watched it disappear. Thanking Sam, he hung up, walked back to his room and rang his mum. He had a lot to talk about with her. The conversation lasted many hours as they talked about what Ash had been up to, the wedding of Lance and Melanie, Gringy City and the deaths of the workers, the wedding, Koga and Charmeleons actions and finally more about the wedding. Before he hung up, he asked his mum for Eevee while they were planning on staying at Fuchsia for the next week or so.

"Ah" Delia said smiling "well Eevee isn't here anymore Ash."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked concerned "is she ok? Has she left you?"

"No, no" Delia said, "but she's no longer an Eevee."

"Oh" Ash said relaxing before excitement overtook him "so were we right in what she'd be?"

"You'll get to ask her yourself when I send her over." Delia said "I'll head over to Sam's now and transport her to Fuchsia. I was heading over there anyway with soup. The poor man is not in any condition to be working just yet."

"I know" Ash said "and I apologised for ringing him the last few days. I'm glad he was able to help and I'm glad you're there to help him mum."

"We owe Sam a lot Ash" Delia said sadly "more than we could ever repay." Hanging up Ash was on edge for the next hour as he waited downstairs with his Pokémon all discussing what Eevee had changed into.

"Can Pokémon trainer Ash Ketchum come to the counter please?" Nurse Joys voice rang out over the tannoy.

Sprinting over Ash took possession of the Pokéball that was handed to him. Going up to his room he and the rest waited with anticipation to see their friend. Wartortle had become impatient just seeing Ash clutch her Pokéball and shouted "Ash! Release her!"

"Ok, ok calm down" Ash said laughing before pressing the button. From what once came a little brown fox was now a beautiful pink and white Pokémon, standing around three feet tall, covered with pale cream-colored fur with pink feet, ears, and tail. There were two bows on her body: one at the base of her left ear and one at her neck. Each bow was a pale cream with a pink center that became a pair of ribbon-like feelers. The feelers were pale cream with pink tips.

"Slyveon, Pokédex number 700, the Intertwining Pokémon and the evolved form of Eevee. This Pokémon is female. It sends a soothing aura from its ribbonlike feelers to calm fights. Sylveon wraps its ribbonlike feelers around its Trainer's arm because this touch enables it to read its Trainer's feelings."

"Yes!" Wartortle said "I knew it! You all owe me."

"Wartortle" Ivysaur said "we all knew she'd be a Sylveon you cretin."

"I called it first" came the obstinate reply making them all laugh as he bounded over to her and hugged her, her feelers instantly latched onto him as she hugged him back.

The rest stopped laughing and all looked at each other with wonder. Wartortle never showed affection like that to any of them, they knew of course that he trusted Eevee, now Sylveon more than anyone else but to openly hug her? That was a new one.

"Look at how beautiful you've become!" Wartortle said further surprising them as he stepped back and took her in "I told you you'd look great, didn't I?"

"You certainly did" Sylveon replied wrapping a feeler around his arm.

"Erm" Ivysaur asked quietly "is there something we're missing here?"

"It seems you, Pikachu and I are in the same boat here." Ash replied looking questioningly at the two Pokémon who were chatting quickly and happily to each other. "I'm as clueless as you guys."

Finally, the two stopped talking and realised they weren't alone. Clearing his throat awkwardly Wartortle said "Guys, this is Sylveon."

"We know who she is Wartortle" Ash said walking forward bewildered "after all we did help raise her. The question is what that was all about."

Looking confused Ash elaborated "You show no affection to anyone but us, and even that is familial. What was that?"

"Sylveon and I decided to be each other's confidants a while back after the Porta Vista incident" Wartortle said sighing "We build each other up and we know that the other will always tell the truth regardless of how painful it might be. Believe it or not she was worried about how much she'd change when she evolved. She was worried that her entire nature would change. It's perfectly evident that's false."

"Wartortle is correct" Sylveon said "while I know in my head that you guys are my family, in my heart he truly is. He's the best older brother I could ask for."

"Fair enough" Ash said smiling "by the way, we were all right in what we knew you'd become. And now your big heart is plain for all to see as it's on your body in several places."

"Thanks Ash" Sylveon said "I can't help but notice someone is missing though. Where's Charmeleon?"

"He's serving his punishment with Professor Oak" Wartortle said seriously "I'll let you know what happened later."

Confused Sylveon nodded and decided to go along with Wartortle. Ash meanwhile was rooting through his bag. Pulling out a smaller bag he placed his wallet and Pokégear inside and put it over one shoulder. "I have a need to go shopping guys, come on."

The next few hours were happily spent exploring the city. Ash was amazed to see how beautiful and green the place was, he remembered the pictures Sam had shown him of how polluted and grey the old city was. Popping into the mart Ash had a look through the selection and pulled three items from the shelves. Paying for them and a box to put them in Ash made his way to the Pidgeot Post, wrote a letter and posted it. Walking back to the centre Ash told them who the package was for, and they all nodded.

"That was a good idea Ash" Pikachu said.

"Yeah, I think he'll appreciate the gesture." Wartortle said. Entering their room they had a fun night just chatting to Sylveon about their recent exploits. The gym episode was talked about in great detail and even she agreed he had crossed the line. Ash went to bed that night feeling better than he did when he woke up.

Elsewhere

Koga was sitting meditating when a loud noise disturbed him. It sounded like a bird landing outside. Standing up he carefully made his way to the door that led to the battlefield and was astounded to see a Pidgeot there holding a package in its claw. Thanking it he went back inside and sat the package down on the table as it had both his and Janines name on the label. Half an hour later his daughter came into the room and noticed her father staring at the box.

"Who's the package off father?" Janine asked.

"I have no idea" he replied "but as it has both of our names on it, I thought it best to wait until you'd finished your training for the day to open it. Shall we have a look?"

Receiving a nod Koga carefully unwrapped the package. Taking the lid off he noticed an envelope on top covering whatever was inside. Picking it up he glanced at the writing on the front, it wasn't someone he knew then given how he knew their styles of writing. Opening the envelope and taking the letter out he gave it a read before reading it aloud for Janine.

Ninja Mater Koga and Trainee Ninja Janine

I am writing this letter for a few reasons. The first is I wish to thank you for the leniency you showed me during our battle. Not everyone would have done so, you certainly did not need to do so yet you did. For that you have my gratitude. Secondly, I wish to inform you of the punishment Charmeleon will receive for pulling such a stunt. None of us condone what he did. I informed my sponsor immediately about what happened, he put the Mark on our record as is law. Charmeleon has been sent away to work alongside Professor Oaks Charizard where hopefully he will learn to be humble and atone for his deed. Believe me when I say Charizard will not put up with arrogance, I have been told he was furious about what Charmeleon did as every fire type starter and trainer must follow that law.

I felt it the honourable thing to do informing you that I'm aware of the seriousness of the situation and I'm aware of what the consequences could have been. To that end the gift I sent is for various reasons, the main reason is my apology and I hope you receive the gift in the manner it was intended. If you should ever need my aid, do not hesitate to ask.

I remain yours respectfully.

Ash Satoshi Ketchum

P.S I did not feel comfortable receiving money for winning the battle, so I have sent you a cheque with my winnings on it.

P.P.S Be careful when handling them.

"Interesting" Koga said setting down the letter, looking in the envelope where there indeed was a cheque. Placing it down he pulled the gift towards him. He pulled out three items, mindful of what they were.

"What are those father?" Janine asked, "I don't believe I have ever seen them before."

"I have no doubt you wouldn't have Janine" Koga said placing them on the table "they are three items that trainers can use in battle to aid their Pokémon. This is a Sticky Barb, it boosts your poison type attacks by up to 25% when held and is likely for my Dragalge, the next is for Muk and is Black Sludge. When Muk incorporates it into his body he will naturally heal himself in battle and physical moves against him injure and poison the opposition Pokémon. The last I believe is for you and Venonat, it is a bag of Brightpowder, when held by your Pokémon it creates a shimmering light across its body lowering your opponent's accuracy and improving your evasiveness. They are not cheap either."

"And he did this why?" Janine asked curious.

"Because he is a man of honour" Koga said, "informing his sponsor and then us of the situation goes a long way in justifying that belief." Seeing her confused face, he continued "the move Charmeleon used was the beginning stages of one of the most powerful and destructive moves a fire type can learn. When it hits, it incinerates everything in a blast radius leaving nothing but ashes remaining and is therefore heavily regulated. Until he wins a league, he will always have that black mark on his record and will be treated with caution and often mistrust when battling people officially. If I had done so Ash would have had his licence revoked, his Pokémon taken away and Charmeleon would be set for destruction. I should have informed the league myself of what happened, but I trusted Ash to do so in my stead. That trust was well placed and the gifts further that trust. Come, let us go see what benefits these items have shall we?"

Ash

The next day Ash decided to visit the area of the city where nothing could be caught. It wasn't technically part of the city as it was just outside its boundaries. Ash had read up on the place. It was full of free-roaming Pokémon, kind of like a big zoo where you could actually interact with the animals. Walking to the crossroads he had come to yesterday he followed the signs for the Ranch and headed out across the open fields. The next few hours were greatly enjoyable to Ash and his family. Ivysaur however was in dreamland. The entire place as far as the eye could see were filed with lush fields and the occasional Pokémon running past. His brain was working overtime on how the fields stayed in such great condition. Ash filled many pages up of his Pokédex just having a picnic around mid-day.

"I wonder how they keep the fields in such great condition" Ivysaur asked after they had eaten.

"I'm not sure who keeps it in great condition. I assume the people who own the ranch maintain it" Ash said looking out over the fields seeing Butterfree in pairs scattering pollen over the fields. "Maybe it's the Pokémon too."

"It's both" a voice said from behind them. Turning around they noticed a young woman walking towards them with a Ponyta at her side "the wild Pokémon here not only keep this place immaculate but they also police themselves, in return we do what we can to help protect the boundaries from poachers. You are aware this is a no catch zone, right?" she said questioningly. Receiving nods, she continued "We have herds of Tauros and Kangaskhan who do checks every few weeks on the various fields and its inhabitants. My family own the ranch this is built on, so technically we own everything you can see but we work in conjunction with the Pokémon to help make everything safe."

"It seems like a utopia" Ash said looking around "it's absolutely beautiful. I'm Ash by the way."

"Lara" the young lady said shaking his hand "what brings you here Ash?"

"I have commissioned a house to be made in the next few years just outside of the town I live in" Ash said "I'll hear back off my family lawyers in the next few weeks about what needs to be done to conserve the surrounding area so I'm here to get more ideas about what I can do with the land I'm buying. I've seen a few things in my travels that have given me ideas but only one has been outside of a town or city setting. I have to say though that it beats this, only just though."

"Truly?" Lara said sceptically "where?"

"Actually, it's not a great distance from here" Ash said pulling out his Pokégear and showing her the pictures.

"Oh Diglett Valley?" she said smiling "yes, that place is incredible, it's only around twenty km away from here you know? The Diglett and Dugtrio help out here from time to time too, they're the ones who re-routed a bit of the river to help irrigate these lands. They're amazing Pokémon, aren't they?

"They are" Ash said, "I'm glad I helped put a stop to the dam that would have destroyed their valley."

"Bloody contractors" Lara said "absolutely no morals at all. All they know is destruction."

"Indeed" Ash said nodding "but as I said I was looking for ideas to help preserve the natural habitat around my future house. The Pokémon there will be allowed to be free, and I read about this place. It's interesting to know it's the Pokémon themselves that maintain this."

"Here" Lara said handing over a card "if you need advice just email me. I'm always happy to help another conservationist."

Thanking her Ash carried on walking through the fields. It was early evening when he was on his way back that he picked up something on his aural radar. "Guys, we're being followed again. Sylveon can you track them discreetly?"

Twenty minutes of walking later Sylveon had tracked them to the forest on their left. "For some reason they're being sheltered by the forest. It's the same two from Celadon."

"So, our criminals are following us again, are they?" Ash said quietly, "well as we can't find them without them knowing we know let's head back and come up with a plan, shall we?"

The rest of the journey was done in silence and as Ash returned back onto the original path that their signature disappeared. "I think they must have access to a psychic type for them to keep instantly disappearing. The raid in Celadon hit Team Rocket hard too, I read over forty operatives were caught and put away so they must be getting desperate."

"Do you think they'll try the Safari Zone again?" Pikachu asked, "It's still the quickest way for him to gain new members for their army."

"Possibly" Ash responded "but we're not staying here for the rest of our lives to police it. We have no control over what others do Pi."

The next few days were made of Ash and his training his Pokémon and exploring Fuchsia City. Three days after arriving Ash decided to visit the little beach that was just south of the city. Spending the day just relaxing was something underrated. Watching Sylveon and Wartortle interact with each other by the sea was a joy for Ash. They were playing with a frisbee Ash had bought. Sylveon was using her ribbons to toss it into the ocean as far as she could while Wartortle tried to not let it hit the water. His speed was becoming phenomenal in water. Pikachu and Ivysaur were making sandcastles and occasionally joining in with the frisbee. Ash however used this time to write up the final comments on his Aura book. He was still two weeks under his deadline, but he wanted it out as soon as he could. It was due to be published later in the month, hopefully he could take Sam and his mum out to thank them for their help with various bits. Pressing send was one of the best moments of his life quickly followed by the little envelope moving across the screen to his Silph publicist. The relief he had when it had sent could not be described. He had officially published his first book, that he was aware of to start with.

The day after Ash decided it was time to visit the main attraction of this place. The Safari Zone. He planned on spending quite some time in there, so he stocked up his backpack and made his way to the north of the city. Passing through the many exhibits of Pokémon enclosures along the way he read the descriptions of them, none of them grabbed his attention though, even the rarer ones. Walking into the entrance he paid for his ticket and read up on the various Pokémon that were plastered all over the walls. Only a few caught his attention.

"Dratini huh?" Ash said, "I wonder how many fools have gone chasing that pipedream, Pi?"

"It's no pipe dream" a gruff voice said "she's very real. The names Kaiser and if you know what's good for you, you leave Dratini alone. Now rules, you cannot use your Pokémon to battle any of the wild Pokémon available. You must use the balls that we provide, not your own. We will also provide you with bait and you have until 6pm to make your way back here or you'll be escorted off site and permanently banned. Is that all understood?"

"Perfectly" Ash said "Come on Pi. Let's go hunt that Dratini."

"What did I just say?" the man roared taking out a gun and pointing it at Ash "Dratini is off limits."

Before he could react, Ash had twisted the man's arm breaking it, made him drop the gun and kicked his legs out from under him causing him to fall onto the floor and yell in pain. "If you ever point a gun at my face again, I will hurt you even more. Make no mistake you will be reported for this. I had no intention of hunting for a Dratini but if I find it and it wants to join me then I will catch it. It's in the Safari Zone, that makes it fair game. Now I suggest you go to the hospital and get that looked at." With that Ash stepped over the man and the gun and walked into the Safari Zone proper.

"Are you looking for the Dratini?" Pikachu asked.

"No" Ash replied simply "I wouldn't mind a dragon type, but it's obviously been in here a while and still not been caught which means it's very elusive. And given our time constraints it will be a pointless endeavour given the other Pokémon we can look for. Here" he said pulling out a small list of four Pokémon names "these are who we are looking for. Not all are for me by the way."

"Interesting" Pikachu said reading them. He couldn't disagree that they'd be excellent partners when trained up. The day passed by at a steady rate for Ash and Pikachu. They had been wandering around now for a few hours and stopped by a lake with a waterfall running into it and had lunch. "Come on out everyone" Ash said releasing Wartortle and Sylveon sitting down and feeding them. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed something very strange. Underneath the waterfall was a Pokémon that was seemingly meditating with the water falling down on it. From this distance it looked humanoid but had extremely bulging muscles. Pointing it out to the group they carried on eating and chatting aimlessly. After twenty minutes Ash noticed the Pokémon stand up and walk into the back of the waterfall where there was a concealed cave. As interested as he was, he knew not to enter a Pokémon's home or den.

Almost half an hour later Ash had the feeling he was being watched. Pulsing out his aura confirmed it. "Guys, the Rocket people are here" Ash said quietly "they're at our nine. Pi and Wartortle, when I say I want you to attack. Sylveon watch our backs" louder though Ash made a show of packing up. Just as he was nearly done he shouted "Now guys!". The world around them lit up in a series of lights as different attacks focused on a single area. The yells from inside the bushes told Ash he had been successful. Calling a halt Ash waited for whomever it was to appear and sure enough the two that had been following him for months now made their way out of the bushes clearly angry but also very battered.

"I don't know who you think you are Twerp" the man shouted, "but you will pay for that." Releasing a Kadabra and a Weezing and pulling out a baton.

"We will put an end to you for what you've done" the blonde woman said releasing a Raticate and an Arbok. Reaching into her pocket she called a number "we have him trapped, do your jobs."

"That's doesn't sound good Pi" Ash said "all of you, destroy them" with that the next few minutes was a haze of destruction and mayhem. Ash had decided to abandon all pretence and charged forwards to the clearly shocked Rocket Duo leaving his Pokémon to deal with theirs. Fighting two people who were both armed with weapons wasn't new to Ash, what was new was that these two clearly had more than a little training and was used to attacking in sync. Ash was having to use all his knowledge and training to keep focused, the trouble was that as soon as he gained the upper hand on one the other would attack from behind refocusing his target. His Pokémon were making quick work of their opponents though. They had decided that rather than go one on one they would attack one at a time with two defending them. In less than five minutes they had the Raticate and the Weezing knocked out.

They were not without their own casualties though as Sylveon had taken a head on Sludge attack, one she was severely weak to and been knocked out of the battle next to the water. This though spurred the rest on and within ten minutes all their Pokémon except the Kadabra were knocked out as it kept teleporting away and attacking from afar. Just as they were about to join Ash though a herd of Tauros came stampeding into the area heading straight for Ash and the Rocket agents. Butch seeing this recalled his Weezing and instructed his Kadabra to teleport them all out of there just as Ash knocked out Cassidy. Doing so it left Ash to turn around and face head on a herd of angry Tauros when from nowhere a blue missile came hurtling from the water scattering them and from Ash's side a Pokémon came and started fighting hand to hand with several of the remaining Tauros. Slipping back into fight mode Ash aided the Machoke in defeating the six remaining bulls occasionally giving the Machoke instructions.

"Step back with your left leg and sweep with your right."

"Defend with your left arm and chop with your right."

"Jump and grab its horn and toss it."

"Forward and don't let up."

After around ten minutes with his other Pokémon aiding them, they made the rest of the Tauros retreat. Falling down to one knee Ash panted. He hadn't been in such a battle since Porta Vista. Focusing on his breathing he quickly got it under control and stood up ready to thank the Machoke when out of the corner of his eye he saw what the blue blur had been. Hovering over a weak Sylveon was a Dragonair emitting a strange light from the gem on its head. Slowly walking over he took in the Dragon Pokémon. It was magnificent Ash thought. This was quickly followed by concern for Sylveon. Racing over to his bag he grabbed a Full Restore and called Sylveon back to her ball and applied the medicine. Hopefully she should be ok, at least until they reached the Pokémon centre. Standing up he took in his other battered and bruised Pokémon.

"I want to thank you all for your help today. Our training has clearly paid off, you made short work of many foes." Turning to Dragonair he took out is Pokedex and Dexter beeped.

"Dragonair, Pokédex Number 148, The mythical dragon Pokémon. This Pokémon is female. A mystical Pokémon that exudes a gentle aura. Has the ability to change climate conditions."

Ash bowed his head and thanked her. "I thank you for your help Dragonair. Without it I doubt I would have survived a horde of rampaging Tauros."

"You're welcome" a sweet melodic voice said back "those Tauros are forever ruining our peace. I was glad to put them in their place."

"It was much appreciated" Ash said turning to Machoke who was watching him warily. This Machoke was different from the ones he'd seen before Ash thought. It exuded confidence, and it was a clear foot taller than normal at around five feet tall "my gratitude to you as well Machoke" he said bowing. Strangely the Machoke bowed back and walked up to Ash staring him eye to eye "you're different. Train me."

Shocked by the demand Ash was ready to say no when Pikachu asked "why?"

"He knows how to fight, I watched from the cave" Machoke said still looking at Ash "meditation can only take me so far. He can take me further. Train me."

"If you come with us then it will not be easy" Ash said turning around and picking up his backpack. Recalling his team, he turned to Machoke and said "The training will be harsh, sometimes brutal but the results are effective non-the-less. If you want to be the best, then I will train you. If you plan to skate by then tell us now and save us the bother."

Taking a step forwards, he bent on one knee and simply said "train me." Nodding Ash took out a Safari Ball and touched it to Machoke's head where it didn't even rock. "well Pi, we have another member of the family."

Scanning him with Dexter he beeped.

"Machoke, Pokédex Number 67, the Superpower Pokémon and the evolved form of Machop. This Pokémon is male and has the ability Guts and is of the Impish nature. Its muscular body is so powerful, it must wear a power save belt to be able to regulate its motions. Current moves known are Karate Chop, Brick Break, Submission, Focus Energy, Leer and Foresight."

"Hmmm" Ash muttered "he needs a lot of work, but we always did like a challenge." Turning to Dragonair he said "I wish you all the best Dragonair, should you ever fancy a change then come to Pallet Town. My mother would adore you."

"I will keep it in mind" Dragonair said "however I have responsibilities here" she finished turning to the water where a head popped out of the water revealing a Dratini. Laughing Ash nodded "you're both welcome. If I never see you again then thank you for your assistance." Standing up Ash walked away keen to leave the area. It was on his way back to the entrance when he was walking past a pond and he was splashed from behind. Quickly turning around, he noticed a Poliwag laughing from the middle of the water. Before it could react, he threw a Safari Ball at it catching it unawares. It began to shake violently on top of the water as the Poliwag was clearly fighting the capture. Finally, though it dinged silent, and the ball returned to Ash's hand. "Well, that's one of the four we were after Pi. At least my mum has a new addition as well as us." Scanning it with Dexter he beeped.

"Poliwag, Pokédex number 60, the tadpole Pokémon. This Pokémon is female and has a naughty nature. Its newly grown legs prevent it from running. It appears to prefer swimming than trying to stand. It knows the moves Bubble, Hypnosis, Water Gun, Rain Dance and Doubleslap."

"Naughty nature indeed" Pikachu said chuckling "not a bad move set either."

Nodding Ash hitched his backpack and carried on walking. Upon reaching the entrance he noticed that there were several police officers around. Seeing him one made a beeline for him. "There you are, Ash. I'm afraid we need to talk."

Confused Ash followed her back inside into a room where there was another Jenny with a pad. "We received a complaint this morning from Mr Kaizer. He claims you broke his arm without provocation."

Laughing Ash shook his head "no that's false. What he conveniently missed out was that he pulled a gun out on me when I mentioned the Dratini that was said to live here."

"Do you have any proof?" Jenny asked concerned.

"Why don't you check the cameras in the lobby. I arrived here at 9:30am, bought my ticket which also has a timestamp on it" he said pulling it out and giving the Jenny the ticket. "And less than twenty minutes later I entered the Zone proper. That's should narrow your searching down considerably. Now if there's nothing else, I need to be going. I was almost run over by a herd of Tauros and I was attacked by two nutters wearing Team Rocket outfits."

"What do you mean?" the writing Jenny asked alarmed "we heard tell of a failed operation about eight weeks ago. Are you telling us they're back?"

"I believe so" Ash said, "If you have access to the cameras in area four next to the waterfall, then you'll see for yourself."

"Damn" Jenny said looking through her notes "that's the only section of the Zone that is unmonitored. Kaizer refused to have cameras placed there, we have yet to discover why."

"We'll be in touch Mr Ketchum" Jenny said standing up and leaving with her companion. Ash decided to follow, made his way to the Pokémon centre where he handed everyone over. Despite the near miss with his life, one he would not be telling his mother about it had been overall a very successful day.

Elsewhere

Cries of pain rang out as a whip came flashing down from above striking a woman with blonde hair who was chained up to a wall. Beside her a man with green hair was virtually unconscious after receiving the same treatment not long before.

"You two incompetents have disappointed the boss for the last time." Domino said walking forward and squeezing Cassidy's face forcing her to look at her "do you have anything to say?"

"It wasn't our fault" came the whispered reply "he must have been tipped off." Evidently it wasn't the right thing to say as the whip came cracking down again from a man at Dominos side who never even flinched. Before she could respond though the door opened, and a man walked in dressed immaculately in a three-piece suit.

Walking directly to the chained twosome he whispered in a menacing voice "you two have cost us severely with your stunt today. Not only did you reveal yourself to your mark, but you also called in personnel to aid you without permission. Because of this the Safari Zone project will have to be pushed back yet again until the heat dies down. I have lost thousands in contracts because of this. While that is a travesty, my word now means nothing to those we need and that is unforgivable."

Sighing the boss walked to the other side of the room and picked up a branding iron that had been in a fire. Walking back to the chained grunts he nodded at the man with the whip who put it down and held Butch's face up. Before anyone could react, it was plunged into Butch's left eye. The screams and the smell caused even Domino to nearly wretch. Nodding again he did the same to Cassidy before calmly handing Domino the iron. "You two are lucky that I still need you in some capacity. You are off the Ketchum case. From now on you will work alongside the new recruits and hopefully retraining will improve your abysmal record with Team Rocket. Domino, put Jessie and James on Ketchum and warn them what happens to those who fail me. I shall see you in my office at 9 for further instructions" Turning around he marched out leaving a sadistically ginning Domino, an unaffected Torturer and a pair of sobbing members of Team Rocket.

Chapter 24: Chapter 24

Chapter Text

Chapter 24

A few days after the incident Ash had come up with a training regime for Machoke and Poliwag and was on the Pokemon Centre training field going over it with them.

Poliwag it seemed was very mischievous but took to training like very few he'd seen before. She was incredibly light on her little feet and packed quite a punch. Her main weakness was her stamina as after a few attacks she was worn out.

"So, it seems we know what to work on" Ash said "your attacks are quick and hit hard but they're all or nothing at the moment. Now I won't be keeping you in my line-up as I caught you to help my mother at her home. So, in a few days you'll be sent to her along with Sylveon. She also has a Cleffa, so you'll need to keep in mind it won't be just you three. For now, we'll go over your moves and come up with a training plan for you. Go over to Wartortle and talk with him, he'll give you pointers on training."

"Now Machoke, your footwork is very poor so far and your speed isn't great so to make up for that we're going to be doing several drills for the next month in the morning to help your line speed. I don't expect you to become rapid, but your speed will tie in with your attacks and IF you decide to evolve then the faster you are now the faster you'll be as a Machamp. There's very few moves you can learn outside the fighting pool so your training will be mainly making sure that every hit you connect is devastating. I'll also be training you on your stamina too, if you can't outlast Pokémon that you're weak to then no number of attacks will win.

I've been going through the TM catalogue for moves I can teach you. I already have Earthquake and I'm going to buy you Flamethrower and Rock Slide to get going on with. You have no ranged moves so the sooner we can get you trained on them the better. I will also be sparring with you every day to help you train your body. I know you're a good fighter, I've seen you in action but I'm currently unbeaten in hand-to-hand combat so I know I can help you become a force. We have a lot of work ahead of us Machoke. But I'll be here alongside you every step of the way.

Now, I know over the last few days you've likely wondered why everyone is a bit on edge. It's because I have another Pokémon currently serving his punishment with my sponsor for an offence that almost cost another Pokémon it's life and us everything. Pikachu will explain it to you when he has the chance. He's going to be back on our team in the next few days with Sylveon and Poliwag going the other way to my mother. I'm aware this is a lot to take in, but we have a lot of time to get you up to speed. Are there any questions so far?"

"No" Machoke simply said staring at Ash "when do we start and what on?"

"We start now" Ash said nodding and appreciating the no nonsense aspect of his new Pokémon "We're going to spar; I won't be going full out. This is simply to gauge where you're at with your hands and feet. Don't be afraid of hurting me, I have great recovery. So, after I speak to Poliwag we'll begin."

The next few hours Ash and Machoke went over several things they could improve on, and the time flew by. Packing up Machoke asked Ash a simple question, yet it required Ash to truly think on it.

"Why were those people attacking you in the Safari Zone?"

"Ah, well that brings us on to a discussion I planned on having with you when my team is full and there are no ears around to listen in. I promise you I'll let you know everything because if you're going to be in our family then you're going to be involved in this whether you want to or not. I'll get Charmeleon back tomorrow. Can you wait another day for a full answer?" Machoke simply nodded. His new Pokémon was one of very few words it seemed.

The next few days was full of activity as Ash sent his mum Poliwag and Sylveon. Wartortle was very sad at this but cheered up when Ash said they were making their way back to Pallet Town over the mountain and should be home in six weeks. His mum was overjoyed at having another Pokémon to help tend to her growing garden but even happier that she now had a valid excuse to install the pond she'd wanted for ages.

"You know you could have just had one built anyway?" Ash asked confused.

"I know" she replied happily "but now I have a reason in my mind to go ahead with it."

Receiving Charmeleon was a mixed event. Upon releasing him in their room he gave them all a look, walked over to the corner and went to sleep. Unsure of what happened and sick of receiving grunts instead of answers Ash and the rest gathered round to get Machoke up to speed on their mission from Arceus, what being a part of their group meant and what their goals were.

"I tell all of my Pokémon this" Ash said ignoring the various snorts that had come from his fire type throughout the explanation "we're all a family. If you need anything just speak. If you want no part of this, we need to know before we leave Fuchsia City tomorrow and I'll happily take you back to the Safari Zone if that's what you want. Think it over for tonight."

Nodding Machoke stood up and walked over to the window where he sat down and meditated staring out of the window. Shrugging Ash went about his business before getting into bed. Looking over at his sleeping fire type he was a little concerned about his behaviour. Hopefully it could be sorted out soon.

The next Morning Machoke simply patted Ash on the shoulder in the morning and nodded. Training was a double-edged sword. Everyone went through their usual routines without a grumble. Charmeleon however didn't say a word. The others were giving him wary glances every now and then, but he just ignored them and went through his routine with single minded focus.

"Good work everyone. We're getting better every single day. Before we know it, we'll be home and then onto Cinnabar. There's simply a mountain in our way" he finished laughing.

Making sure he was packed Ash said goodbye to Joy and left via the southern route. When he reached the signpost for the beach he turned right and followed the path there. He knew he was in for a long trek. It would take at least six to eight weeks to reach the outskirts of Pallet Town but before that though was perhaps the hardest bit of the route. Before he had set out from Pallet Town, he had packed a pair of sturdy Rock-Climbing boots which he had changed into at Fuchsia. They were killing his feet as he wasn't used to them, but he knew they were essential for trekking over rough terrain. Standing at the top of the first hill Ash looked off into the distance. Directly below them was a deep ravine with a narrow path leading down to it that led into a huge forest. He could see off in the distance another path leading up to the other side to the top of the next hill. The first valley took over two days to get through, it involved a lot of careful walking along narrow ridges and scaling down a few cliff walls. Coming to the bottom to where the forest began, he stopped for a rest where everyone was fed and watered. An hour later Ash decided to carry on as he wanted to be out onto the other side of the forest before nightfall hit in six hours' time.

The trek through the forest was eerie for various reasons. The first was the path was so overgrown that it was clear it hadn't been traversed in months. Luckily, he had a small axe to make his way through. The second reason was because he knew they were being watched from the forest. Hopefully as long as he kept to the path, they would remain undisturbed. Machoke was a big help at various times helping to move fallen logs and boulders that had dropped in their path. Overall though Ash was enjoying the outdoorsy aspect of this route.

"We'll stop here for ten minutes" Ash said loudly taking out his canteen and drinking from it before handing it to Machoke who took a small drink. "This is some rough going, it's obvious the league hasn't cleared this area for a while. At times I think we should be paid by them for doing their job for them" he finished laughing. Quietly though he mentioned to Machoke and Pikachu about them being watched. The rest of the trek was more of the same and several times they had to stop while various Pokémon trotted along their path giving them suspicious looks. Ash knew they were coming to the end of the path through the forest when the trees started thinning. Reaching the other side was a relief. They had made it through part one of the route. Now they had another valley to climb. Deciding to do that in the morning Ash set up camp and waited for first light to leave. Everyone was on edge that evening because they could all feel they were being watched. Funnily enough Ash's Aura powers were failing him on identifying whatever it was as it seemed the trees were masking whatever it was.

The next morning Ash woken up and immediately knew something was wrong. It took him a minute to recognise what it was but when he did he shot up. "Guys!" he shouted, "Pikachu is gone!"

Pandemonium was what described the next twenty minutes as he frantically packed up and all the while he was quietly simmering with rage. There was no way that Pikachu would get kidnapped without putting up a fight. After he had packed up, he sat on the log at the side of the path and sent out as many pulses of aura as possible. After ten minutes he had come up empty.

"He's not in the forest. I have sent as many focused aura blasts as possible in every direction so that means he's likely gone on ahead. We follow the path up that valley. If he's anywhere he's up there."

Ash gathered up his backpack and recalled everyone. Making his way up the valley was arduous, but Ash's rage kept him moving. He sent a quick message to his mum and Sam about what had happened and his coordinates, he didn't expect a reply as he was out of the service area. The message would go through when it could. What should have taken three days took two and all the while he had been going through what could have happened. He knew that Pikachu wouldn't abandon him, they had been through too much for that to happen, but he still wasn't being picked up on Ash's radar. Reaching the top of the valley he looked behind and saw just how far he'd come. Steeling himself he turned back to the path and started walking. After half an hour he came upon something that didn't belong. On a rock off to the side was an object Ash knew all too well. Picking it up he saw it was Pikachu's Light Ball. So, he had come this way. It made Ash more determined to find his partner. Every hour or so Ash found more and more clues, arrows made of branches, scars on rocks that only an electric attack could make. Rather than giving Ash more hope it made him angrier.

Around dusk Ash made camp for the evening Ash released everyone and informed them of what happened.

"So, Pikachu has run off without telling you what happened?" Charmeleon asked. It was the first question he had asked since they had re-joined each other.

"So, it would seem" Ash said heavily.

"And how is he going to be punished when you get him back?"

Ash just looked at him confused. "Figured" Charmeleon snorted before picking up his bowl and walking outside the circle "one rule for one" came the mumbling statement.

The rest of the gang looked on warily. Whatever Charmeleon had gone through with Sam seemingly hadn't worked how they wanted. It just seemed to make him more resentful. However, he was right. Pikachu had been gone for nearly a day now, and he obviously had departed on purpose.

"You know he's right" Ivysaur said "you can't let Pikachu off for this. He's caused us all to be worried about him."

"I know" Ash said nodding "Charmeleon is right. I just have no idea how he can be punished. If any of you have any ideas, then feel free to speak up."

"Send him to Charizard" Charmeleon piped up bring back his bowl "torture seems to be the way you like to punish those you call your family after all." He finished before walking off again.

"What the hell happened?" Wartortle asked seeing his friend walk off "what did Charizard put him through?"

"Sam wouldn't allow Charizard to harm him" Ash said confidently looking at Charmeleon worried "I have no idea what happened, but it doesn't seem to have worked the way we wanted."

"No, it doesn't" Ivysaur said quietly "I suggest we go to bed soon. That way we can leave at first light."

After another restless night Ash packed up and they all left. Wherever Pikachu was he clearly had enough time to be able to leave clues, so Ash wasn't too worried about his health. Trekking in silence they came to yet another valley only this one wasn't as steep as the last. The forest in the trench though seemed to stretch on further than the last one. Ash was starting to seriously regret coming this way. Hindsight was always a wonderful thing. he had also come up with a way to punish Pikachu. After running it by the group they all agreed it was probably the most serious way to make Pikachu realise what he had put them through. Charmeleon on the other hand just shook his head and continued walking. Ash was very worried about his behaviour as he had never been so disrespectful before and while he obeyed Ash for now it was going to come to a head very soon. Ash just hoped it could be resolved as he hated rudeness. The only reason he had let it go on this long was because he was more worried about Pikachu.

The next few days was spent going down the valley into the forest. This one seemed a lot lighter and airier than the last one, there was even a little stream following alongside the path that they all stopped at to have a rest and refill the canteens of water. Around early afternoon Ash finally received a familiar pulse back on his aura. Pikachu was close by; he was still travelling wherever he was going but he was getting closer. This made Ash more determined to find his first friend but by evening they still hadn't caught up.

"We can't traverse a forest at night guys" Ash said releasing them and making their food up "we rest for now and leave at first light."

That night as Ash slept Charmeleon stayed awake beside the fire going over what happened the time he was away. He hated it. He was being punished for learning a move on his own, OK he severely damaged the Venomoth but that was accidental. He was trying to win Ash a badge but to be punished like he was, was way out of line. He never thought Ash would do that to him. But after spending a week being punished by the Charizard because of a move he was learning and lectured by Oak while he helped injured Pokémon at the ranch, he was in no mood to be around Ash for any length of time. In the back of his head, he still recalled how they met and what Ash meant to him, it was the only reason he stayed for now. Ash had saved his life but he had done the same for Ash so weren't they even on that score? Those thoughts of their beginnings were quickly fading into distant memory and the immediate past was starting to take hold. How could Ash treat him like this? And the punishment that was planned for Pikachu was laughable. Oh, he understood it as it would mean something to Pikachu but still… Looking over at his sleeping trainer Charmeleon felt resentment coming back up to the surface. He didn't really foresee a future with Ash anymore. And that left him feeling hollow.

The next day Ash set out again. Hopefully this day would be the last day he would be without Pikachu. It seemed that wherever Pikachu was, was just off the beaten path. Ash had been following the pulse now for the last few hours and it swung immediately ninety degrees to the left of the path they were on. "Looks like were traversing the forest now guys."

Recalling them Ash brought out his axe and began making his way as quietly as he could towards where Pikachu was hiding. The beep was getting steadily closer. From nowhere though the forest opened out into a huge clearing. Crouching behind a bush Ash observed what was going on. It seemed like Ash had stumbled on to a Pikachu colony as running around playing were various Pichu, Pikachu and the odd Raichu. Curious Ash observed them for a few minutes before deciding that he'd had enough. Pikachu was in here, and he needed answers. Leaving his backpack behind the bush Ash stood up and walked into the clearing. Immediately every Pokémon stopped what they were doing and became wary of the human that was walking steadily in the direction of their main warren. Seeing this the Raichu that were asleep at the side of their main nest became alert and walked threateningly sparking at the intruder.

Standing ten feet from the nest Ash shouted "Pikachu, I know you're in there. Come on out."

Instead, what Ash received was two Thunderbolts from the two Raichu. Ash immediately slipped into combat mode and started hurling Aura spheres at the two Raichu. It was tough going fighting two quick mouse Pokémon. It became even tougher when some of the Pikachu joined in. Ash realised he was getting nowhere quick and released the rest of his Pokémon. "We need to beat them, they've captured Pikachu. Everything that moves is a target."

The next ten minutes was pandemonium as Ash and his Pokémon systematically beat the Pikachu and Raichu that had been guarding the nest but beat them they did. Ash had very well trained and coordinated Pokémon. Wild Pokémon had no chance and a few minutes later when Ash had beat the two guard Raichu's he looked around. The clearing was littered with knocked out Pokémon. His own hadn't come out unscathed, Wartortle had a yellow hue around his face, Charmeleon had various scratches, Machoke was holding his left arm and Ivysaur looked unharmed but had a slight limp. Walking back over to his bag he brought out a bottle of Full Restore and started spraying his injured Pokémon. Once he had done that he walked back over to the nest and shouted again "Pikachu, everyone up here is knocked out. So why don't you come up."

Instead of Pikachu however a Golden Raichu came out of the hole. Ash was startled, not so much by the colour but by the size and obvious power of its aura. It was a good foot taller than most Raichu and looked very strong. It was easily on par with Lt Surges Raichu. Pikachu was stronger however.

"Who are you to come into my home human and harm my family?" Raichu asked angrily.

"Who are you mouse to kidnap my family" Ash angrily retorted making it spark its cheeks at the tone.

"So, you are Pikachu's human then?" Raichu asked looking at him appraisingly "I am far from impressed."

"I'm Pikachu's brother" Ash said taking a step forward "we have been through hell and back in the last few months. So, release him before I'm forced to harm you."

"I'd like to see you try" Raichu said falling on to all fours getting ready to pounce.

"Mother" a voice said from behind her "enough." It was Ash's Pikachu who stepped forward in between them facing the Raichu. "Enough. Ash is my trainer; you will not harm him."

"Get out of my way Pikachu before I harm you instead" Raichu said threateningly taking a step forward.

"Do so" Pikachu said simply "and you will never hear from me ever again."

Reeling back in shock at Pikachu's words the Raichu became visibly angry "you would dare harm your own mother by abandoning your duties?"

"You already did that" Ash said stepping forward "when you abandoned Pikachu as a Pichu in Pallet Town Forest! I saved his life back then. Where were you? Do not think I don't know who you are. The moment I saw you come out of the hole I recognised the aura you gave off as Pikachu's is a close match to yours. Now Pikachu may not have told me a lot about his life before we met but I can read between the lines."

"It was necessary" Raichu said angrily "he would have been killed for being so obviously different. I did what I had to do, for the best of my colony."

"I'm sure you did" Ash said mockingly "but also to hide the shame of your progeny too no doubt."

"Ash" Pikachu said turning towards him "please don't go there."

"You know I'm right Pikachu" Ash said "she wanted to hide the shame of who your grandfather was. Well guess what, we met him, and he told us everything. Not only that but Pikachu was chosen by Arceus herself for a task."

"I do not care what Arceus wants" Raichu said earning a gasp from the recovering colony "I want my son back, here as he should be to perform his duties for this colony. You do not get a say in this."

"Actually, he does" Pikachu said looking at his mother "you see unlike you Ash has never abandoned me. You can wrap it up with as many words as you want. I faced possible death here? Ok, I can believe that. But you abandoned me to certain death out there and that mother is unforgivable. So no, I won't be returning here. My place is with my trainer and best friend."

Pikachu began to walk towards Ash intent on climbing his shoulder when he was quickly pushed aside by Ash who sprang an aura shield up around them both from the Thunder attack that had come from Raichu. Incensed her attack had failed she charged forward into a Volt Tackle intent on harming the trainer who had clearly brainwashed her son. Just as she was about to hit Ash's shield Pikachu jumped forward and used an Iron Tail to block the attack. The struggle lasted for around ten seconds before Pikachu's attack overpowered his mothers and sent her flying backwards where she landed painfully on her back. Walking over to her Ash couldn't hear what he whispered to her, but he was quickly re-joined by Pikachu who jumped onto Ash's shoulder. Recalling his Pokémon Ash made his way over to his backpack, shouldered it and followed the path he had cleaved back to the main path of the forest. Neither of them had said a word about what happened. Ash would never find out what Pikachu said as he knew it was personal.

Finding the path didn't take long and soon enough they were walking in silence along the path out of the forest. Climbing the side of the valley was long and arduous but by evening the following day they had made it to the summit. Turning around they looked down into the valley of the Pikachus. A strange sort of melancholy had taken over as they carried on the path towards Pallet Town. That night Ash released everyone from the Pokéballs. Ivysaur, Wartortle, Machoke and Charmeleon walked off to one side and had a quick discussion. Curious Ash watched them seemingly come to a decision and when they returned it seemed Ivysaur was the spokesperson for them.

"Pikachu, given what we saw today we have decided not to go through with our planned punishment for running off like you did, worrying us all and leading us on a Mankey chase through a forest. Nothing we say or do could compare with having to leave your family like you did. However, should you pull something as stupid as you did again, we will go through with the punishment we agreed upon, only this time the length will be doubled. Is that clear?"

Nodding confused Pikachu said "erm, thanks? I am sorry for what I put you all through. When I was told my mother was nearby by a Pikachu scout, I wanted to see her, get her side of the story and mainly to see if she could justify abandoning me. It was only after travelling for a few hours I realised I hadn't left a message with any of you, so I started leaving markers for you to follow. I'm glad you were able to do so. Out of curiosity what was the punishment?"

"Two weeks of confinement to Pokéball" Charmeleon said "you'd come out for training and food but the rest of the time you'd be confined to your Pokéball."

"You are kidding?" Pikachu said shocked.

"No" Charmeleon growled "we aren't. I was punished severely for something I had no idea I was committing. You knowingly left us. The punishment while poor was the best thing we could come up with to make you realise what you'd put us through. I'm going to bed." Stalking away they all watched Charmeleon curl up on the other side of the fire and seemingly go to sleep.

"I'm sorry you went through what you did Pikachu with your mother" Wartortle said "but Charmeleon is right. For all we knew you abandoned us without a word, and we have been traipsing through two forests to find you for nearly two weeks. Don't ever pull a stunt like that again." Wartortle stood up and walked off and curled up beside Charmeleon.

"I don't need to say anything more" Ivysaur said "they said everything I was going to. I'm sorry about your mother and if you need to talk, you know where I am." He too walked over to the other two and lay down beside them.

"I don't know you well enough to judge you" Machoke said "so I won't." At that he sat down in a meditative pose and closed his eyes.

"You worried us all Pikachu" Ash said "you should have woken us up. We'd have happily come with you. Even if it meant staying on the path while you talked to your mother in the Pikachu village. We were planning on burning down the entire forest to find you, you know. I'll leave you to sort your head out as it's been a big day for us all but especially you. I'm glad you're safe pal." Ash finished his drink and headed inside his tent leaving Pikachu to go over what had happened. It took a long time for him to be able to fall asleep.

The next few weeks were thankfully less eventful. The group was still tense even after Pikachu had apologised to them all. He hadn't mentioned what happened in the village, and everyone else was seemingly content to go along with it. The good news was that the speed in which they had been tracking Pikachu meant they had ploughed through four weeks' worth of travelling in just under three. According to the map on Ash's Pokégear the next valley was the biggest to get through. In fact it was so big it was called a canyon. It had several places of interest though.

"Well first up guys is Evolution Mountain. So called because of the mining industry here. Rather than gems being dug up every type of evolution stone is found in these mines. So, Pi be careful to not touch anything shiny around here. After that is a small town where we can hopefully heal up and restock. Then it's the Canyon itself. Crossing that is our main goal as Pallet Town is just on the other side of it. So, let's get cracking guys."

That afternoon Ash and the gang came across something that immediately reminded them of when they first met Charmander. An Eevee was tied up to a tree, lying down in its hollow trunk. Walking up to it concerned Ash spoke to it.

"Hello, are you ok?"

Waking up from its sleep it warily looked to where the noise was coming from. Seeing another human, it recoiled and crept backwards into the hollow. "Please go away, my trainer doesn't want me to be found."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked concerned "has your trainer tied you up here on purpose?"

"Yes" Eevee said poking its nose out from the shadow "but he's coming back for me later. He just doesn't want me to be found until the party is over."

"You're not making any sense" Charmeleon growled angrily "why would your trainer abandon you here?"

"He's not abandoned me" Eevee stated firmly "he's hiding me here, so I won't be forced to evolve at his brothers party with other Pokémon."

"Enough of this" Charmeleon said grabbing hold of Eevees rope and pulling him out "we're not going to harm you and you're not making sense so just nod, ok? Good. Let me see if we have this right. Your trainers' brothers are having a party, one where evolution is the main theme, he doesn't want you to evolve so rather than telling them he decided the best solution was to come and tie you up here, where you could be stolen, attacked or killed?"

"Well," Eevee said quietly "I wouldn't put it like that."

"Well, we would" Ivysaur said interjecting after seeing how worked up Charmeleon was getting "Charmeleon is right. He left you here, tied up to a tree on the main path through the canyon. You're both lucky we found you and not anyone else."

Ash knelt down and took the rope off Eevee "We're going to see your trainer. There are a few choice words I have for him."

Feeling like he had no other choice but to follow them Eevee walked with them and lead them towards his trainer's house. All the while he was trying to persuade them that they didn't need to do this as he was going to be picked up later on.

"Enough kid" Wartortle said "this is happening so come to terms with it." which caused Ash to chuckle at his mums favourite catchphrase. Half an hour later the path opened up onto the grounds of a big white house with a huge garden. In the garden a marquee had been set up and various trainers were milling around with their Pokémon all walking around the grounds. On a stage that had been set up were three boys. All of them had different coloured hair.

"Which one is your trainer?" Ash asked. Mumbling Eevee replied that it was the small one on the stage.

"Testing" an orange haired trainer said into a microphone "hello everyone, and welcome to the evolution party. We hope you are having a great party. We're just waiting for the guest of honour to bring out his Pokémon and we'll get started."

"Yeah" A blue haired trainer said grabbing the microphone "where is he Mikey?"

"I don't know" the kid mumbled nervously "he's been missing all day. He'll turn up sooner or later. You know how he is."

"Mikey" a boy with yellow hair said "this party is for your Eevee. Where is he?"

"Yeah, we wanna see what you've chosen to evolve him into." The redhead said.

"Find him Mikey" the blue haired boy said.

Using aura to push his way through the crowd Ash marched his way forward ignoring all the shouts from the trainers he physically moved out of the way. "Eevee is right here" Ash stated.

As one the four boys turned towards them. Mikey seeing Eevee was there jumped down from the stage and started shouting "what are you doing? He shouldn't be here. Eevee should still be in that tree safe!"

"Enough" Ash roared making the boy fall backwards "you are a disgrace of a trainer. You are lucky that I found him and brought him back! You left an untrained Eevee alone tied up to a tree on the path that leads to Fuchsia and Pallet Town. Anyone could have snatched your Eevee; he could have been hurt or worse killed and you would never have known! And all because you're too much of a coward to tell your brothers you don't want Eevee to evolve? You are lucky I can't revoke your license!"

By this point the young boy was in tears. His brothers were quick to jump to his defence. Leaping down as one they all advanced on Ash "Hey, you can't speak to our brother like that."

"You can shut up too" Ash said his eyes glowing blue making the three brothers step back "did any of you actually ask Mikey if he wanted to evolve his Eevee? Or did you just force your opinion on him? You're lucky that I found his Eevee and not some poacher. Now according to Eevee Mikey doesn't want to evolve him but he's too much of a coward to tell you himself. As for you three, stop pushing your agenda onto your brother. Evolution does not always make things better, nor does it always make a Pokémon stronger. My Pikachu could wipe the floor with every Pokémon here but is happy as a Pikachu. We're done here Pi."

"Hey" the blue headed boy shouted as Ash began to walk away "you don't get to talk to us like that either. Vaporeon, let's go."

"Flareon you too" the redhead said releasing his pokemon

"Jolteon, you're up" the yellow haired boy shouted doing the same.

"Pi, Thunder half power" Ash said as Pikachu jumped up from his shoulder and launched a huge bolt of lightning at the three Pokémon. The Vaporeon had no chance and was sent flying back severely injured where it landed twenty feet away clearly knocked out, the Flareon suffered the same fate as it too landed next to the Vaporeon with scuff marks on it and had sparks of electricity running across its body. The Jolteon was not as affected due to its typing, but it still went flying backwards and landed ten feet away from the other two. Struggling to its feet it looked up to see a yellow missile head towards its face and was sent flying backwards landing next to the other two. It too was out for the count.

Turning around Ash walked back through the crowd who parted for the clearly angry glowing boy. Leaving the estate Ash carried on the path towards the next town. He was still simmering with rage when they made camp that night. "You know, you and Charmeleon are made for each other, don't you?" Wartortle said after they had eaten. Both Charmeleon and Ash looked up questioningly "you both take abandonment, or what looks like abandonment to heart even after the situation is resolved."

"Everyone here, apart from Machoke was abandoned Wartortle" Ash said looking at him "there's no excuse for it. Absolutely none."

"I was like that Eevee" Charmeleon said to Machoke "I was left on that rock by my trainer who told me he'd be back. He left me to die. Eevee could have suffered the same fate if Ash didn't find him tied to that tree. I don't like Ash at the minute, I don't like what he put me through but that doesn't mean I don't respect him as a trainer. He saved my life, but I've also saved his." sighing he said something that shocked everyone present "Ash I don't know whether or not I want to remain as your partner. What you did to me was not appropriate for what I did."

"Oh wow" Ash said taken aback "what makes you say that?"

"I am a Pokémon Ash" Charmeleon said looking at him "it's in my nature to learn moves. I also have dragon ancestry, getting stronger is also in my nature. Now I've never had an issue with the training you've given me, it has helped me immensely and I will be eternally thankful for everything you have done for me over the last six or so months. But sending me away to be humbled by that Charizard was too far. And no, I'm not going to discuss what happened at the ranch. You don't deserve an answer at the moment. So, for now I'll still be your Pokémon. How long that remains for is another story."

"You owe him" Pikachu started to say angrily.

"I owe him nothing anymore Pikachu" Charmeleon said interrupting Pikachu "I have long since repaid for what he did for me. I've saved his life a few times and put my life on the line. That debt has long since gone. And he once told us this family is not a transactional one, if you or anyone else stays because you feel you owe him then that statement is a lie. You should stay because you feel valued, not because you have value. What you all did to me was beyond anything Damien did to me. I trusted all of you and you abandoned me."

For a good five minutes Ash tried to come up with a response. Finally, he said "I've always tried to do things that are for the best. I don't come up with all the solutions, we are a family, and we discuss situations together. It was a group decision to send you away Charmeleon. We did so with the best of intentions to try and make you realise how bad a thing you had done."

"I knew it was bad only when you told me" Charmeleon said "but only then. Not once since I started traveling with you did you tell me I couldn't learn any moves or that some were restricted. If you'd have told me that I may have come to you. I'm a fire type Pokémon, my primary weapon is my fire. So why would I not try and develop that?"

"You're right" Ash said interrupting him "you're right. I should have told you. However, I trust every single one of you to come to me and ask questions. I've never had an issue about you guys' training on your own as long as you tell me what you're learning. You went off on your own to train using that move. This one is on you Charmeleon. You should have asked me for help."

"I think" Machoke said slowly "that it's clear mistakes were made on both sides."

Nodding Ash agreed. Reluctantly Charmeleon did the same. "So where do we go from here?" Ivysaur asked.

"I'm not sure" Ash replied sighing heavily "that depends on everyone here. Charmeleon was right about the value part though. If you're here with me because you feel you owe me then it needs to be discussed. As for Charmeleon I'll do you a deal. Wait until we get to Pallet to make a decision, at least that way Sam can find you a place somewhere else. I will miss you Charmeleon if you decide to leave, but as I've told everyone else if you don't want to be here then don't feel obliged to stay. I will find you somewhere."

Nodding Charmeleon stood up and walked to the other side of the campfire and lay down. No one had a good night's sleep that night.

The next day Ash arrived in a quaint little village that was full of fields. The big issue Ash could see however was they were all barren. Questioning a local Ash found out that the dam where their fields received their water from had been blocked up and had been for about a week now so Ash decided to check out what the issue was. Passing by a curious old man playing a Poke-flute he wandered through the village and followed the dried-up riverbed up to where he thought it came from. After an hour walking, he stopped dead in his tracks. There in front of him, in the middle of the riverbed was a Pokémon. Pointing Dexter at it he beeped.

"Snorlax, Pokédex Number 143, the sleeping Pokémon and the evolved form of Munchlax. It is very lazy. It just eats and sleeps. As its rotund bulk builds, it becomes steadily more slothful."

"What the hell is a Snorlax doing here?" Pikachu asked bewildered.

"Blocking the river, it seems" Ash said sniggering "I think we found out why the river is blocked Pi. Look, barely a trickle can get past it."

Looking down at the riverbed they saw that a slow stream of water was coming from the gap between Snorlax's head and its body, the only place the water could escape. Behind the Snorlax however were several thick vines that was also blocking the water.

"The water that's being let through would dry up way before it reaches the village because of those vines alone" Ash said.

"So, we need to move it and get rid of the vines?" Pi asked.

"It would seem so" Ash replied weighing up the situation "we may have to catch it because even if we knock it out it would still remain here. I'll speak to Sam about relocating it, perhaps to the Safari Zone."

Ash withdrew a pokeball and threw it at the sleeping Snorlax. The ball though seemed to hit a barrier and came flying back to Ash. Confused Ash threw it again and the same thing happened. As he was about to do it a third time, he paused mid throw as something Professor Oak said came back to him from the beginning of his journey.

"Now Ash, here are five pokeballs. Remember, you can only catch wild Pokémon. Trying to catch a Pokémon that belong to another trainer will not work."

"Snorlax already has a trainer" Ash said putting the ball away. We'll have to beat it and move it."

"Hang on" Pikachu said "why not get the guy from before to wake it up? That's what those things do right?"

"We'll do that then. Hopefully Snorlax moves on without needing to be battled." Ash replied as they turned around and made their way back down the slope to the town. Coming up to the man playing the Poké-flute they stopped and spoke to him.

"Hello" Ash said, "can we borrow your Poké-flute for an hour or so please?"

Bewildered the man looked up and asked "why?"

"Well, you see this dried up riverbed?" Ash replied "well upstream there's a Snorlax lay down in the riverbed with some vines behind it and it's blocking the flow of the river. We need to move the Snorlax before we can clear the vines, so the village gets water again."

Surprisingly the man laughed and stood up. "So that's where she's got to. I did wonder where she was." seeing the confused looks he continued "the Snorlax is mine. We travel from place to place together. Come on, lets go wake her up. It's been a few days since I last saw her so I'm sure she's hungry."

Trekking back up the hill they soon came to the Snorlax lying down.

"Snorlax" the man shouted, "wake up, it's food time."

Groggily the Snorlax woke up at its trainers voice and looked around in confusion. The first thing it saw though was the vines and assuming they were its food it began to quickly devour them. Steadily the water began to pour again in the riverbed. Snorlax though carried on undeterred at getting wet and carried on eating. Soon though the force of the water became too much and it angrily got up and stepped out of the way. Ash, Pikachu and the man had to quickly leap to the side to avoid being swept away in the current as the water made its way downstream. Snorlax however looked at the river in disgust, sat down grumpily and fell over onto its back where it promptly fell asleep.

"Well, that's one way of clearing the vines" Ash said bewildered.

"Indeed" the man said pulling out a pokeball from inside his tunic and recalled the sleeping Pokémon "well, I must be off." He then walked off back towards the village leaving a confused Ash to slowly come to his senses.

"We're just going to assume this day never happened Pi" Ash said as he carried on down the path towards the next town. It was still around mid-day when Ash and Pikachu came across a small town. What was strange though that every house they passed the inhabitants quickly and abruptly closed their windows firmly shut. One woman even came out of her house to gather up her small child before dashing back indoors. Heading towards the Pokémon centre Ash was getting more and more irritated by the actions, but he was just as confused. Walking into the Pokémon centre Ash stopped dead in his tracks. There at the counter were two people he never thought he'd see again.

Chapter 25: Chapter 25

Chapter Text

Chapter 25- Dark Places

"You!" Ash shouted at the counter "how the hell did you guys get out of jail?"

"Oh damn" the blue haired man said looking at Ash in fear "it's the twerp."

"Jail?" the nurse exclaimed taking a step back and looking at the two trainers who had brought in their injured Pokémon.

"Yes" Ash said walking up to the nervous people "these two are the ones responsible for trying to steal Pokémon from Viridian City seven months ago. It was me that caught them! They're part of a group of thieves and scum called Team Rocket. You two better start talking quickly and explain why you should be able to keep your kneecaps whole."

"We quit" the red headed woman said quickly "after what happened in the Safari Zone, we want nothing to do with them. It was horrible what happened to Cassidy and Biff, their mission had a horrible end."

"What do you mean? Ash asked confused.

"Like Jessie said, the boss is tracking you" the man said "he thinks you're behind some of the issues we've been having for the last few months so he sent Cassidy and Bitch to keep an eye on you. They did so quite successfully actually but got cocky. They thought they could take you out in the Safari Zone and no one would know and they used Team Rocket resources behind the boss's back to try and kill you. Only you beat them, and they fled. They arrived back at base having blown their cover and were punished severely for it. Domino took one of their eyes out each as punishment. He then sent us to replace them in following you."

"James is telling the truth" Jessie said taking over "I have no intention of losing any of my body parts thank you very much. So, while we were flying here, we decided to leave Team Rocket. We landed just outside behind the Pokémon centre but was attacked immediately by a crazy man with an Electabuzz. We honestly thought we would never see you again."

"Let's say I believe you. Where do we go from here? What are your plans?" Ash said sceptically. Something about this whole thing seemed very odd.

"We plan on healing our Pokémon and then leaving this place" James said, "It's not a very welcoming place."

"Well, I'll leave that to Nurse Joy. She's the adult and this is her place of work. Her decision on whether we call the police will be final." Ash said turning to the nurse.

"I'm bound by my oaths and the law to make this place a neutral ground for everyone. I'm not happy about it but I cannot go around that. So, I will heal your Pokémon. You will then leave this place and never come back but when you're gone, I will send Jenny a report that you were here but left after I found out who you were."

"Thank you Nurse Joy" Jessie said relief clear on her face.

"We'll do what Joy said. But if you guys try anything I will leave you here in a puddle of your own blood" Ash warned as he handed his Pokémon over too and went up to his room. There wasn't the normal set-up in this room, likely due to how remote a place it was. There was a TV but apart from the bed that was it. Shrugging Ash lay down for an hour and then made his way back downstairs where Jessie and James were at the counter collecting their Pokémon back from Joy. Regaining his Pokémon Ash went to walk outside when Joy stopped him.

"Wait" she said, "you can't go out there after six."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked confused "why?"

Sighing Joy came out from behind the counter and motioned for him to sit down at a table. Jessie and James walked over too eager to hear what the issue was. "I'll start at the beginning. The people who attacked Jessie and James are part of a local gang. This town currently has two gyms, Yas and Kaz. Both have their own underlings who routinely go around attacking each other. Their leaders have an Electabuzz and a Scyther and both are trying to drive the other out of town in order to become the sole gym leader but so far all it's done is create a horrible environment for people to live in and the casualties and wrecked homes mount up each day. At around 6:15 they have their daily battle between them and then retreat to their respective gyms once they're done battering each other. I am then left to tend to everyone, who of course refuse to be treated in the same room as their opposing team. I'm about done with this town, I've handed in my transfer papers and another nurse is on her way to take over."

"Well," Ash said looking at Pikachu "I think we better take a look at the morons, eh? Will we be safe from the porch?"

"Yes" Joy said looking worriedly at the clock "this place is neutral ground for everyone."

Ash looked at the clock and noticed it was 6:05. Picking up a chair Ash walked outside to the front porch and set the chair down. He was quickly joined by Jessie, James and Joy with their own chairs. Releasing his Pokémon, he explained what was going to happen and they all waited for the action to begin and sure enough a few minutes later the two gyms at the opposite ends of the town opened their doors and ten members from each gym walked out to meet at the middle. As luck would have it the Pokémon Centre was situated directly in the middle of both gyms.

As the two opposing sides met their leaders noticed that they had an audience. Cautiously they looked at each other and then warily made their way over to Ash.

"Who are you?" one of the men said from the Yaz gym.

"What he said" the leader of Kaz said.

"Oh, I'm Ash Ketchum" Ash said genially "I'm just here to enjoy the show so why don't you two morons go about your daily business. A word of warning though, should any single attack from either side come heading this way I will wade in, and I will destroy your entire team. So, off you go."

Incensed the two leaders released their Pokémon. An Electabuzz and a Scyther. Grinning at Ash the leader of Yas said, "still think you can take us on boy?"

Sighing Ash said "Pikachu. Quick attack and Iron Tail, Charmeleon Flamethrower and Slash." Before the leader could react, Pikachu flew from his perch on the railings and smashed into the Electabuzz sending it flying over to where their teammates were looking on shocked. Scyther was also sent flying to their respective team too knocked out from the huge Flamethrower Charmeleon had released at it followed by the vicious Slash it was given. Nonchalantly Pikachu hopped back onto the railing as if nothing had happened and Charmeleon lay back down.

"Yeah, I'd say so" Ash said leaning back "now that that part is out of the way why don't you take your Pokémon back to your gyms and then tomorrow when the sun comes up you leave this place forever? You've made the inhabitants of this town miserable with your infighting, not to mention the damage you have all caused to their homes."

"You have no authority to make that demand" The Kaz leader said recovering from shock recalling his fainted Pokémon.

"Actually, I do" Ash said pulling out his Pokédex and pressing a few buttons "you see before I left Pallet Town at the start of my journey, I was made a junior professor by Professor Samuel Oak. Now it comes with a lot of forms, and I had to sign many documents but one of those documents was having the ability and authority to call into question the competence of a gym leader. I have to be able to back up what I am saying, but otherwise my recommendation to Sam has been good enough so far to see two gym leaders removed from their posts and replaced in the last eight months. Now, Nurse Joy has just informed me that she's handed in a transfer request and is in the process of packing up because of all the aggravation you two have caused, not just to her but to the people in this town as well. So, when I contact the head of the Nurse Joy division and supply that document as evidence to the League authorities along with her statement of what's been happening here, all of you will be forcibly removed from this town. I suggest you take my advice and leave before you're made to leave." Ash stood up, recalled his Pokémon, picked his chair back up and walked back inside the Pokémon Centre.

Waiting for the others to come in Joy placed her chair down and then surprised Ash by pulling him into a hug. Ash was far from used to being touched so just stood there until his brain kicked into gear and he wrapped his arms around her while she cried. When she had composed herself, she quickly made her excuses and left to go saying she had bags to pack. Turning to Jessie and James he said "you guys should be free to leave now. I doubt they'll try anything for a while but remember what Joy said. Tomorrow she will be speaking to Jenny about you guys. I wish you all the best in whatever you do." Ash then left a bewildered Jessie and James as he retreated to his room. Calling out his Pokémon he spoke to them all about keeping a watch tonight in case the two leaders got it into their heads to try anything. He doubted they would as he was on neutral ground, but you never knew with morons.

The next day Ash walked down to be greeted by two Joys chatting to each other. Ash instantly recognised the other Joy. "Hello again Jennifer" Ash said walking up to her and shaking her hand "it's nice to see you again. And this time face to face, so to speak."

"You know each other?" the original Joy asked.

"Yeah" Ash said nodding "she was originally in Gringy City not long back. I helped clear the place out of Grimer but Jennifer was moved to Fuchsia City while Gringy City gets cleaned up. When I saw her, she had been forced to constantly wear a Haz-mat suit because of all the pollution in the city. I take it she's your replacement?"

"I am" Jennifer said happily "it's nice to see you still have love for us Joys. Marlene here was just telling me about what you did for her."

"It's the least I could do" Ash said smiling "and they had it coming. No one should have to live in fear. Oh, I sent the email to Sam last night from my laptop so all he needs is your statement and proof of the reason why you're moving so just send it straight to him. Anyway, I need to get going. If you need anything just message me or email me. Here's my number."

Before he left, he said goodbye to both Joys and then left the town. On the way out he could see various trainers being booed out of the town. One obviously thought he could still intimidate a woman who was shouting at him to leave and got right in her face. Ash was having none of that and grabbed the man by the arm, twisted it and threw him away. Standing up the trainer was about to give whoever attacked him some abuse until he saw who it was. Ash simply stood there with his arms folded next to the woman. Ash would only turn twelve in a few weeks, but he was already much taller than those his own age at around five foot eight and because of all the training he did he had significantly bulked up over the last eight months. The trainer simply picked up his bag and fled.

Saying goodbye to the woman Ash carried on the path out of the city. Ash was still upset that he could be losing Charmeleon soon and it had been on his mind now for a few days. Hopefully they could come up with a solution before they reached Pallet Town. He really didn't want to lose anyone from his family but he had stated many times that he would help them, and he was a man of his word.

"I still have no idea what to do about Charmeleon" Ash said thinking out loud.

"It's a tough one" Pikachu said from his shoulder. "I really hope your issues are resolved before we get home."

"I was just thinking the exact same thing Pi" Ash replied sighing "it will be very hard letting him leave but he was right about him owing us nothing. He's more than repaid whatever debt he felt he had towards me and we don't work like that anyway. But if that's how he feels we can't hold him back."

"He won't find a better trainer than you Ash" Pi said "the regimen you've had us all on from the beginning has seen us outstrip everyone in terms of strength. We have still not lost an official battle so what you do with us clearly works."

"Thanks Pi" Ash said scratching his head "but Charmeleon wants out. I get it you know, it's like any relationship, without trust you have nothing."

"That's true" Pikachu said "but he's also wrong about you Ash. Your decision to send him to Oak wasn't yours alone. It was all of ours. If we acted rashly then it's only now that we can see it but he almost cost us everything. He needed to realise that."

"Who's to say we couldn't have done that by just talking to him about it?" Ash said, "it's something we'll never know."

"Ash, you know he wouldn't have listened" Pikachu retorted "You heard him when we told him what he'd done. He wasn't remorseful at all about almost killing another Pokémon."

"That's likely the dragon in him" Ash said "they're vicious when provoked and in his head he was trying to win a battle. Again, we will never know how things almost turned out."

The rest of the day Ash was silent. That night he sat around the campfire and just listened to them all chatting and it was nice to just listen. Several times he was caught watching but he just smiled and shook his head when asked if everything was ok. The next day Ash left the camp to gather some berries from the nearby trees when he was joined by Ivysaur. Together they worked in silence until Ivysaur said "he'll be missed by us all."

There was no need for Ash to ask who. "Yeah, he will. He's been such an important part of my life now ever since I rescued him. And I hurt him. I know some form of punishment was necessary to get it into his thick head just what the repercussions could have been but still…" shrugging his shoulders Ash carried on picking up berries.

"You should tell him, while you still have the chance" Ivysaur said before he walked away.

Re-joining them he packed up contemplating just how he would say what he needed to say. Following the path, he came to a three-way crossroads with a signpost that said Granpa Canyon 2km. Making his way there Ash saw a few cars come past him from wherever the other path led to. Slowly the view changed from a sheer rock face on his right to become more of an open expanse. After an hour of walking Ash walked on the little dirt path and into Granpa Canyon. Looking around he marvelled at all the tents set up at various places, people with pickaxes milling about and, in the distance, a big truck selling food and drink. Making his way over he bought himself a Pidgey Burger and a bottle of water and milled about. Seeing a makeshift sign for the main tent Ash finished his burger and walked up to it. He was stopped at the entrance by a guard but after Ash flashed him his Pokédex and the guard saw his professor status he was let in. Walking in Ash stopped at the sight. In the middle was a huge table made up of four tables with a model of the campsite on top with various flags placed around the model. Walking up to it he observed it for a while taking in the various bits of paper with various names on them. Archaeology had always fascinated Ash, from a young boy he had always wondered how the Pokémon lived centuries ago. He was disturbed by a voice from his side.

"Now who might you be? And how did you get in here young man?"

Turning Ash saw a man looking at him, around six foot tall with dark grey hair wearing a dark green jacket with many pockets, the same-coloured combat trousers. He seemed to Ash to have a no-nonsense demeanour, so Ash didn't feel the need to test his patience. Pulling out his Pokédex he handed it over to the man who listened to Dexter declare him a junior professor. Handing it back Brandon just stared at him. It was starting to unnerve Ash a little.

"I know who you are" the man said "I am Brandon, the seventh and final master of the Battle Frontier. However just because you have junior professor status doesn't mean you can just walk in here without a permit."

"Oh" Ash said reaching into his bag and pulling it a folder that Sam had given him "I have one in here." Pulling out the document Brandon read it over and then handed it back to him. Walking over to his computer he typed in Ash's Pokédex code and Ash's list of achievements came up. Reading it Brandon immediately became impressed with him.

"Sam must think very highly of you to give someone your age a blanket permit like this." Brandon said standing up and walking back over to Ash "but I want to make it clear, while you are in this canyon you are under my command. Do you understand Ash?"

"I do sir" Ash said "I have limited knowledge of being around excavation sites. Only an idiot would dismiss the excavation leader's authority in a place as potentially dangerous as this."

"Good" Brandon said looking at him appraisingly "you seem to be more level-headed than his grandson at any rate."

"Gary is here?" Ash asked.

"Sadly yes" Brandon replied "I have met many trainers over the years who had an overinflated sense of ego and he is right up there. I've had to shout at him twice for ignoring my commands. He nearly blew himself up with dynamite through being cocky so I've had to leave him with my assistant to keep an eye on him."

"He has always been like that from the moment we could talk. His Grandfather being the most famous Pokémon Professor and his dad being the current champion has made his ego go through the roof. I've no idea why he feels that their accomplishments are his own." Ash said shaking his head.

"So, what brings you here?" Brandon asked nodding.

"To be honest I was just passing through on my way to Pallet Town." Ash responded "I'm doing the gym challenge and we have just come from Fuchsia City. We have trekked through the canyons, and it led us here. I'm curious really what kind of dig this is. I was walking around outside, and it seemed random people were allowed to take part in the dig. Is that normal?"

"Sadly, you're correct but only in certain parts. We let the general public dig over here" he said pointing to a red flag near where their tent was situated "that way we can keep an eye on them, usually they're benefactors of the dig or trainees so we have little choice but to let them in. However, the real dig is going on over here" he pointed to a flag on the opposite side of the tent "we have reason to believe that there was a temple buried by a landslide a century or so ago somewhere in this canyon. Sadly, we have yet to find evidence. But we have a week to find something before we have to move on."

"Ah ok" Ash said, "well maybe I could help?"

"How?" Brandon said curiously.

Ash made his hand glow blue. "An aura wielder?" Brandon said wonderingly "yeah that could work. We'd have to get you close though."

"Why?" Ash asked curiously.

"Well, I've never met an aura wielder than could expend their aura out more than twenty feet for more than a few minutes" Brandon said. Ash just laughed which confused the man.

Stopping himself laughing Ash said "I'm the most powerful Aura wielder on the planet and it isn't a brag. It's the truth. I've been using Aura since I was six and I can extend my aura out sixty feet indefinitely in any direction. I haven't been using it in here because I had no need to do so but I can also send out aura pulses and lances that extend seventy feet with clear line of sight."

"That is most useful" Brandon said looking thoughtful, "follow me." Brandon led the way out of the tent towards another tent forty feet away. Walking in he greeted a Nurse Joy who was going over a map in her hand "Joy, we have a potential breakthrough. This young man claims to be able to use aura up to seventy feet."

"Ash Ketchum. Well, I'll be" Joy said standing up and making her way round the table where she hugged him. "Look how much you have grown."

"You have me at a loss Miss Joy" Ash said confused.

"I was at Porta Vista young man when you were brought in" Joy said "A number of us Joys were brought in to be able to tend to the Pokémon that were injured that day. The aura you expended that day Ash, stopping and killing an Ancient, I swore I would never want to see another day like that again. The number of Pokémon who were severely injured because of one person was horrible. It was me who tended to your Charmeleon and Ivysaur."

"You killed an Ancient" Brandon asked staring at Ash "by yourself? Why is that not on your list of achievements?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head "I had Pikachu and Wartortle with me. Pikachu and I took it down together after we had weakened it in battle."

"And nearly killed yourself into the bargain" Joy said shaking her head "what you did was foolish yet incredibly brave."

"That too" Ash said sheepishly "and it's not on my list because I don't want it to be. I don't want people knowing what the Tentacruel was to start with. If the wrong people ask questions about it then they may get ideas. I've already created an issue with another Ancient, I didn't need that one added to my list."

"So, you're the one who created the situation with the Dragonite?" Brandon asked chuckling "that's where we're off to next. Pokélantis and Pokémopolis."

"Yeah" Ash said scratching his head in embarrassment "I never knew what it was when I met it. I just knew that a lonely Pokémon was after finding its family and promised to help. It was only after the occasion that I was told what it was and what drama I had caused with my promise."

"Anyway, whatever he says he can do with Aura I'd believe him. His readings were off the chart apparently in the hospital. My husband was your doctor and he marvelled for days about you" Joy said, "I know he shouldn't have told me, but he was like a giddy schoolboy."

"Good" Brandon said, "I'll lead the way." Brandon walked back out of the tent and led Ash through another tent to where more official looking people were getting ready to dig. "Listen Up. Ash here is going to guide us as best he can towards the site of the excavation. He's an aura wielder, Brock, I put him in your care for this dig."

Amazingly it was Brock Slate. "Brock!" Ash said hugging the other boy "why are you here?"

"Ash!" he said hugging him back "I am a part time archaeologist and scientist in Pewter City. Being a rock type trainer, I come on these digs hoping to find a fossil to resurrect. Sadly, I've only found two in the past and they're part of my elites. Why are you here?"

"I was passing through from Fuchsia City when I came upon the dig. After speaking with Brandon, I told him I can help using my aura to see if the dig is worth it." Ash replied.

"And I took him up on it" Brandon said, "I'm glad to see you two know each other."

"We've known each other nearly nine months now, ever since I beat his gym with just Pikachu" Ash said smirking.

"And then lost to my Golem" Brock countered back good naturedly.

"Yeah well, we don't count that do we Pi?" Ash said laughing with the others "We're still unbeaten after that battle. Anyway, should we get started?"

"What?" Brandon asked surprised "you've not been beaten yet? In eight months?"

"Nine months next week" Ash said laughing "oh don't worry I get that question a lot. You learn from losing. We've never lost a full battle, individual ones in a battle yes, but collectively we're still unbeaten. I just hope we don't lose at the League."

"Hmmm" Brandon said "that's very interesting. Anyway, yes let's go. You follow Brock, he's project leader while I have to take a conference call in twenty minutes but be careful out there."

Ash nodded and shook Brandons hand before walking with Brock. Over the last eight weeks, they had conversed via emails a lot concerning their book. There were a few things they needed to add before they sent the first draft to Ash's publisher, but it would be hopefully out very soon. Ash's aura book was scheduled to be released in two weeks' time. Thankfully for this one Ash wouldn't need to be at Silph for the release as it was all being sorted by Silph. For their collaboration book Brock had agreed to help with the release as he had more time than Ash. And with Charmeleon leaving soon he would be without a possible flying type so he was planning on scouring Seafoam or Cinnabar for one that would fit into their team.

Coming up on the dig Ash spent the next few hours walking around the site pointing out places where he could detect faint signs of life. It was as he was walking across a flat bit of ground that stretched around sixty feet that Ash suddenly stopped and shouted, "Nobody move!"

Startled by Ash's command they looked at him concerned. "The part I'm on is above a huge underground cavern, and I've just stepped on a bit of ground that feels like it's giving way. The drop could easily kill or severely injure everyone. All of you carefully back off to the side, you too Brock. I'm going to try and slowly make my way over to where you are."

"I'm not leaving you Ash" Brock said shifting his weight to spread it as evenly as he could "besides I'm close enough to you that should you fall, I will too. Now we'll take it a step at a time, and we'll head back exactly the way we came. We're in the middle here, couldn't you have chosen somewhere closer to the edge?"

Laughing Ash said "sorry Brock, next time I will. Ok, we'll carefully make our way back." Inch by inch they retreated backwards. They were less than fifteen feet away from the edge when from behind them they heard an explosion and made them freeze. Cautiously Brock looked up and swore "shit, Ash we're going to have to run. Do not ask why, just run."

Listening to Brock Ash started to run. He hadn't made it too far though when bits of rock and debris started raining down on them. All of a sudden, the ground underneath Ash foot gave way, and he lurched as the entire floor gave way. Grasping the edge Ash held on for dear life with Pikachu jumping onto the ledge that had been created and was frantically trying in vain to pull Ash up. It was no good though as Ash was too heavy and the ledge was starting to cut into Ash's hands and make the skin between his thumb and finger bleed.

"Pi" Ash said quietly "look after mum." Pikachu looked on in horror as the ledge gave way and he saw Ash fall backwards into the darkness as he screamed Ash's name. Before he could leap after him, he felt two hands grab him as the ground started to give way even more. Brock had carefully made his way back to Ash and was several feet away when he heard Ash's words. Luckily, he was able to grab Pikachu before he fell, and he started to run back to safety. Reaching the edge, he climbed onto a rock and stared out at the huge cavern that had opened up on the flat of land. The hole was easily forty feet across in diameter.

"Brock" a voice said from his side. Turning to face her it took a minute to register that it was Nurse Joy who had been talking to him "I'm sorry Mrs Joy. I didn't catch any of that."

Taking pity on Brock she explained that they needed to go back and get Brandon to explain what had happened. Shaking his head, he cleared the cobwebs and began to follow her, not hearing the various commands she was giving out. As they reached the tent Joy barged in to find Brandon berating three people who were sitting on chairs opposite him. Joy interrupted him and informed Brandon what had happened. Immediately Brandon made phone calls to the local hospital stating they needed urgent assistance. Once that was done, he ordered the three to stay where they were and then led the way back out to the canyon.

"I'm so sorry Brock" Brandon said clasping him on his shoulder "it seems some idiots got a hold of some dynamite and decided to blast their way into the mountain because they were convinced we were holding out on them with fossils. We'll get him out of there Brock. I assure you."

The next few hours flew by as they set up makeshift stations on the safe bit of the canyon. The local air ambulance service had landed not far away and were planning on abseiling down into the hole to retrieve Ash. What spurred them on though was throughout that time period various noises were heard from deep in the cavern. Something was happening down there, no one knew what though. Just as they were about to go down into the cavern, they heard a horrible screech, and a huge grey blur came flying out of the hole screeching its name "Aeeroooo." Only it wasn't alone.

Ash

Falling was not fun, landing was even worse. Ash was used to tumbling down hills from being a kid, he was often getting into scrapes as he was a bad judge of distance when dealing with a Pokémon that didn't want them near him. That was until he befriended Oaks Charizard and then no Pokémon would dare try anything. He had also been through a lot since becoming a trainer, near death experiences were commonplace for him. The sheer drop into the canyon was like nothing he'd been through before though. He had time to think of how much of a splat he was going to make when he hit the floor which seemed to trigger a response from his aura. He'd conjured shields before but never had he conjured a bubble to surround him. The impact he made on the ground however was still felt as he bounced off a rock and was sent flying twenty feet where he landed heavily. It took a good ten minutes for Ash to be able to clear his head and be able to sit up as he was aching all over.

Pulling himself to a rock he propped himself up and took stock of where he was. Luckily, he had aura vision to be able to see in the dark but this was like no other dark he'd seen before though. Rock Tunnel was dark, this was pitch black. Seeing his backpack ten feet away he struggled to his feet and made his way over. Grabbing his Pokégear out of his bag he saw he had no signal. Shaking his head, he put it safely back into his bag and pulled out a bottle of water. Having a drink, he looked around and saw that there were a few tunnels stretching off in various directions. Shouldering his backpack, he winced in pain and quickly dropped it. Releasing the others, he explained what had happened and that they'd need to follow one of these tunnels to see if they could find a way out. Looking around though none of them could figure out which way to go. Looking up, the ceiling to the cavern was a good eighty feet up, and the hole was just a tiny speck.

"Upwards would be ideal" Ivysaur said "it's a shame we can't use that."

"You're not wrong" Ash muttered before hearing something "guys were not alone anymore."

Off to the side of them Ash heard something chittering, and it was steadily getting closer. Taking up a defensive position Ash and his Pokémon waited to see what was going to come out. Ash's aura told him it was only small whatever it was but out of the gloom came a Pokémon Ash had never seen before but he'd read about them. It reminded Ash of a Pokémon he'd seen in a film about dinosaurs.

"Guys, that's a Tyrunt" Ash said taking Dexter out of his bag and pointing it at it. "And it's carrying an egg."

"Tyrunt, Pokédex Number 696, the Royal Heir Pokémon. Long thought to be extinct, this is an ancient Pokémon, revived in modern times. It has a violent disposition, and it'll tear apart anything it gets between its hefty jaws."

"It looks fairly young, so hopefully mum isn't around" Wartortle said nervously.

Looking at them Tyrunt seemed to be coming to some form of a decision but when he spotted Ash any other thoughts than 'prey' escaped his mind and he placed the egg down, roared and charged. The roar echoed throughout the cavern frightening them all.

"Ivysaur, Vine whip its feet and Sleep Powder" Ash commanded. Ivysaur immediately did so, and it went crashing down to the floor. What surprised everyone though was it actively fought being put to sleep. Roaring again it charged towards Ash only this time it was sent flying sideways onto a rock, which smashed apart as a blast of water hit it from Wartortle. Warily it got back to its feet, saw that it was very much outclassed and out manned and sent another roar at the group before charging again. This time though Ivysaur grabbed it with its vines and held it in place while he shook his bulb and let loose another load of sleeping powder and gradually the Tyrunt fell asleep.

Sighing with relief Ash made his way over to the sleeping fossil Pokémon but as he did so his foot kicked something. It was the egg.

"Guys I think this is still alive" Ash said as he picked it up and scanned it with his aura "Tyrunt obviously was going to have this as a meal. I think we'll show it to Joy when we get out of here" opening up his bag Ash made room for the egg and secured it safely inside.

"What do we do with Tyrunt?" Charmeleon asked looking at it "I don't fancy it waking up and calling for help."

Coming to a decision Ash brought out an empty Pokéball and threw it at the sleeping fossil Pokémon. "We'll let Brandon decide what can be done with it. I don't fancy having a carnivore like this on my team, but Charmeleon is right, we can't afford for it to call for help. Those noises it made before have set me on edge as it is."

Putting his newly acquired Pokémon on his belt they decided to walk into the hole Tyrunt had come through. Or they would have done had Ash not leapt out of the way as a huge rock came flying at him through the gloom. Looking up from where he landed Wartortles worst fears were made real. Clearly Mum had heard what her baby was going through as out of the darkness came a massive Tyrantrum, pushing nine feet tall who looked at the group with malice with her razor sharp teeth bared.

"I think we may need to run" Wartortle said.

"Guys" Ash said "I don't think we can outrun this one. We have no idea where we're running towards, if there's more of these down the passageways or anything else about this place. We're going to have to team up and take this down."

"Oh, you had to say that didn't you" Wartortle said "well, better sooner than later." Surprising everyone Wartortle fired off a huge Hydro Pump at the Tyrantrum who roared in pain from the attack and staggered her. His attack set off a huge fight between them all as everyone started to attack the Tyrantrum. She was occasionally getting attacks off which did a lot of damage when they hit but as it was four on one, five if you count Ash launching Aura spheres at its head the battle was over with inside ten minutes. The battered and bruised body of Tyrantrum slowly limped away down the passage it had come from, looking back occasionally at its enemies. As soon as it was out of sight Ash slumped over in relief. Looking around he saw that Ivysaur had been hurt quite badly, one of his petals was badly ripped from where Tyrantrum had bit down and he was holding his right foot up gingerly. Machoke had been knocked out by Tyrantrum swinging her tail and getting a lucky shot in with a Head Smash. Wartortle had a badly scorched shell and had tanked a Hyper Beam which clearly left its mark. Charmeleon was fine however as he stuck to ranged attacks and dodging.

Recalling his injured Pokémon Ash and Charmeleon took stock of where they were as he placed his backpack back on. "I think we should wait here Ash, if someone is going to rescue us then they'll do so via the hole we made."

"I think you're right" Ash said nodding. As he was about to sit down though the most bloodcurdling shriek was heard to echo through the cavern. Panicking Ash quickly sent out his aura and dove out of the way as a massive beam of light lanced their way and he hit his head on a rock knocking him out. Charmeleon who had only heard the attack at the last minute was grazed by the Hyper Beam and was sent flying ten feet off to the side. Groggily he came to, finding to his horror that a huge Pokémon had gripped an unconscious Ash by the backpack and was about to bite down on his head. Standing up Charmeleon launched a huge Flamethrower at the Aerodactyl, who angry that he couldn't have his meal flew upwards out of the way of the attack landing on a rock. Charmeleon was about to use another attack when the Aerodactyl screeched at it and a big rock formed in its mouth.

The Ancientpower attack would severely injure Charmeleon should it hit, luckily Ash's training kicked in and he swiped it aside with a Dragon Claw and began to charge. Aerodactyl simply flew up onto a rocky outcrop and landed with Ash face down, not caring if its prey was alive or dead when it ate it. Just as it was about to bite down an orange ball of light flew true and hit Aerodactyl on the mouth. Screeching in pain it reared its head back and looked upwards where it immediately went quiet. Suddenly its eyes narrowed in recognition. That was sky. It had been over fifty million years since he had last reigned in the air above what was now Kanto. Looking down he smirked at the Charmeleon knowing it could freely have its meal outside while his opponent was stuck in here. Screeching again it took off and swooped down at Charmeleon who dove out of the way. Standing up he saw where his opponent was going, taking Ash with him. He could not let him get away. Unfortunately, rage had taken over. And in his rage, he evolved.

Roaring in anger his body grew and wings sprouted from his back. Evolution was already a painful process in general and forcing evolution highlighted those pains. And having been in several battles in the last few hours his body was already sore. Stretching out his wings he looked at them for a moment before grinning savagely. He finally had wings! Looking up he saw that the Aerodactyl was nearly out of the cavern. Flapping his wings, he quickly became used to the weight and took off upwards in pursuit of his opponent. Flying out of the hole he knocked several people onto their back from the sonic-boom his speed had created. Aerodactyl were known as being one of the fastest flying types alive, but Charizard in his determination to catch up was doing just that. Aerodactyl had just set Ash down on a rock and was preparing to eat when an orange missile barrelled into it sending it flying off the rocks. Flapping its wings to regain its bearings he expanded his wings and soared and righted himself and looked around for what had hit him. Seeing the Charizard it became very angry, screeched and charged. The next twenty minutes wasn't a battle, it was a fight. Unfortunately for Aerodactyl, who had been used to eating whatever prey it liked had picked a fight with a Charizard that was trained. Charizard, while filled with rage heard a voice in the back of his mind giving him commands. Instinctively he obeyed and soon enough he had come out on top.

Aerodactyl gave as much as it could give but Charizard's rage blinded him to any pain he was feeling from the attacks and had soon thrown Aerodactyl down onto the pillar next to Ashs. Landing on the rock he put his clawed foot on his opponents shoulder blades and pinned Aerodactyl down. Knowing he was victorious he roared to the skies and released a huge ball of flame. From underneath his foot Aerodactyl started trying to wiggle out. It had managed to wiggle its body so that it was facing upwards, started screeching in anger and was starting to form an orange light. Charizard was having none of that and bit down onto Aerodactyl's neck and tore its throat out immediately silencing it.

Ash had seen this as he had woken not long after the battle started and started shouting commands up to Charizard, his last one of Outrage was all that was needed to finish off the fight. Seeing his Pokémon had evolved filled Ash with a huge sense of pride, seeing him school a fearsome predator made him so happy and when he saw Charizard throw Aerodactyl down in victory he inwardly cheered. He noticed however during Charizard's celebrations that the Aerodactyl was still moving. He knew that before it got away, he would need to make his way over to the pillar because Charizard was still under the influence of Outrage. Just as he had leapt from the pillar to the other he barrel rolled to his feet in time to see Charizard rip out the Aerodactyl's throat and hear Charizard release another deafening roar.

"Charizard" Ash shouted. Immediately Charizard turned his anger filled gaze upon Ash who walked forwards until he was three feet away "you need to calm down buddy". Charizard stepped off the downed Aerodactyl, flared his wings and roared in Ash's face. Specks of spit and blood washed over Ash along with an incredibly intense heat. Before anything else could happen, Ash grabbed Charizards head and pulled it down, so their heads were touching "I know you're in there buddy. You need to stop now. You've won. And I'm so proud of you Charizard. I should have told you this before our last serious talk but out of everyone I have gathered in my family you were the one I felt the most protective of. I never told anyone this except my mother, but I grew up on the stories of my father's Charizard and how strong it was. It's the very reason that I asked for a Charmander before I started my journey when I realised I probably wouldn't get Pikachu due to him being wild.

And when I met you for the first time, I immediately knew I would have regretted it because it wouldn't have been you. I'm so proud to have met you Charizard. I am very sorry that I sent you away without explaining why. My only defence is that I am still a young trainer who doesn't always get decisions right but I know I made the right decision becoming your trainer. And I'm so proud to have become your trainer. In just seven months you have gone from a Charmander at the brink of death to a Charizard who has just beaten an Aerodactyl on your own. You have more than proved Damian wrong. I just wanted you to know that whatever decision you take when we reach Pallet Town, I will fully support you and you will always be family to me no matter what you decide. I just wanted you to know that."

Throughout Ash's speech Charizard's mind slowly cleared up and with every word Ash spoke Charizard became more and more aware of where he was. He was surprised at what Ash said as he never gave any indication that he valued him that much. Ash was very stunted emotionally; all his Pokémon knew this. He was never harsh with any of them unless they went over the line with something. Charizard finally realised that he had crossed a line learning Blast Burn on his own, but the blame was from both parties, and he was being incredibly selfish to want to leave at the first bit of unhappiness. After all, how can you resolve an issue if you just leave? After a minute of taking all this in Charizard gently bumped his head with Ash and snorted. Turning to his downed opponent Charizard snorted and then looked back at Ash. Getting onto all fours Charizard offered Ash his wing and growled.

"You want me to get on?" Ash asked surprised.

Charizard snorted again and rolled his eyes as if to say "Obviously". Climbing on and securing himself behind Charizard's shoulder blades he marvelled at the muscles on his back as he flapped his wings and began to take off. To be able to carry Ash, who wasn't light and still fly as if unencumbered amazed Ash. Charizard soared around the hole letting Ash take a look at where he had fallen before gently heading downwards and landing next to Brock, Joy and Brandon. Climbing off Ash and Charizard butted heads again before Charizard pressed the button on his ball with a clawed hand and retreated into it. Sighing Ash looked up to see Brock looking amazed and Joy happy. Immediately though every ache and pain Ash felt came back and he collapsed blacking out.

Hours later Ash woke up in a comfy bed. To his side was his belt of Pokémon and his Pokédex. On his other side though was a sleeping Pikachu. As gently as he could he grimaced as he propped himself up and grabbed Pikachu and placed him on his chest. Pikachu immediately woke up.

"Hi Ash" he said quietly.

"Hi Pi" Ash said gently smiling at his first friend "how are you doing?"

"Better than all of you" Pi said seriously "but you're here now and that's all that matters."

Before he could answer the flap opened and Brandon and Brock walked into the room.

"You gave us quite a scare there, Ash" Brandon said. "What happened down there?"

"Yeah sorry" Ash said grimacing as he moved his legs out of the bed. Waving Brock away who rushed to help "I'm ok Brock. I'm ust battered and bruised but nothing is broken as far as I'm aware. Can I tell you while I eat? I've not had anything since before I met you and I'm hungry." Picking up his Pokéball belt and Pokédex he dressed himself and followed Brandon out of the room into the big room he first met him in. Joy saw him up and rushed over to give him a hug. Grimacing he thanked her and was released when she realised he was still in pain. Looking over to the side he noticed his bag was there and opening it up he was surprised to find the egg still intact. Taking it out he carried it over to a surprised Joy. "I found this down there. Can you check it over please? Also, my Pokémon need healing especially my Ivysaur. He has a severely torn petal from a Tyrantrum bite." Joy nodded and took Ash's Pokéball belt. Before she could leave, he grabbed one of them off the belt but didn't say anything. Confused she left them to discuss what happened.

The next few hours Ash discussed in detail what had happened down in the canyon. It was somewhat cathartic to Ash as while he wasn't traumatised, he was very thankful to still be alive. After all, how many times in a few hours can one put their life at risk? Winding down his story he told them of the battle in the sky and that he calmed Charizard down by talking to him. What was discussed would stay between them though.

"Well Ash" Brandon said "by sheer accident you may not have found the temple we were after, but you've discovered Pokémon once thought to be extinct very much alive. When we send a team down, we will have to be very careful. Thankfully there's one less predator down there."

"Two" Ash said holding up his Pokéball "I caught the Tyrunt as we didn't want it waking up and calling for mum. Unfortunately, mum arrived anyway but I don't want it. I've had enough of vicious fossil Pokémon for one lifetime."

"So, what do you plan on doing with it?" Brock asked curiously eying the Pokéball.

"Well, I planned on asking Brandon for his advice actually" Ash said looking at him "I don't know of any sanctuaries for revived fossil Pokémon in Kanto, let alone ones that never died."

"There are a few in other regions." Brandon said, "we could probably send it to one of them."

"I'll take it" Brock said shocking them "I already have two fossils I have trained from being revived, and I did come here to try and find another one."

"Can you handle a Tyrunt or Tyrantrum?" Brandon asked seriously.

"Yes" Brock said "I have a Kaputops and an Omastar. They're not easy to handle but I'm sure with all my Pokémon's help we will be ok. If it gets too much, I will let Lance know or yourself and we will relocate it to one of the sanctuaries."

"Very well, but i want quarterly updates on it for the next year" Brandon said standing up "thank you for all your help today, Ash. I'm glad you're ok and hopefully I see you around soon."

"I think that's our cue to leave, you can sleep in my tent tonight Ash" Brock said laughing. Ash stood up wincing and followed Brock out. The crowd from before had thinned considerably and they headed towards Joys tent. Walking inside he saw that Joy had placed the egg in an incubator and was just finishing up healing his Pokémon.

"Your Pokémon are fine" Joy said "I had no trouble healing their minor injuries so they just need rest for a few days. Ivysaur however isn't ok. His petal may never heal fully, but that's the only issue you might have. Charizard forced himself to evolve so you will need to let him out over the next few days to get used to his body so no training for two days for him. Aside from that everything is good. The egg is perfectly fine too and it should hatch in the next month or so. Just keep it incubated. As for you young man, you are not allowed to exercise too strenuously for a week. Your body needs to heal."

Thanking Joy Ash followed Brock back to his campsite. Setting up his tent was arduous as he was still very sore, but he insisted that he'd sleep in that tonight. Brock after all deserved his privacy too. That evening as they all sat around the campfire Ash reflected on what a day it had been. It seemed crazy that his journey would continue after nearly dying again. His bed was a very welcome sight that night. Closing his eyes, he sent a silent thank you to Arceus for keeping him alive and introducing him to his family.

Chapter 26: Chapter 26

Chapter Text

Chapter 26

The next morning Ash woke up and immediately regretted doing so. Every ache and pain he had from yesterday came back full force. Steeling himself he painfully got out of his sleeping bag and walked outside. After relieving himself in one of the port-a-loo's stationed around the campsite he headed back to his tent and began to pack up.

"Leaving so soon" a voice asked from behind. Turning around he saw Brock standing there with a brew in his and smirking at Ash.

"Yeah" Ash said "I want to make Pallet Town inside the week. Sitting around doing nothing isn't my kind of thing. I'll heal better by walking. Plus, I have a better recovery rate due to aura" he finished shrugging.

"No problem, Ash" Brock said "keep in touch yeah? I'll let you know how the book launch goes."

Nodding painfully Ash shouldered his backpack, shook Brocks's hand and made his way down the valley. As he walked down the steps to the valley floor, he skirted around the hole that had been created yesterday. Looking at it from the air didn't really give it the justice it deserved. Shaking his head Ash walked by it, ignoring all the people already milling around and carried on down the route towards Pallet Town. There were no towns or cities that Ash knew of along the route but there was a Pokémon centre three days away. Walking was tough going as Ash was still in a fair amount of pain, but he soldiered on, stopping only at a river to refresh his water canteen. That evening he set up camp in a small clearing they had found just off the beaten path. As he sat down by the fire, he called out Machoke, Ivysaur and Wartortle.

"First off guys I want to say thank you so much for your help down in the cavern. Every single one of you played a part in taking down that Tyrantrum. Machoke, even though you were knocked out by a lucky shot it was your blow that severely injured its leg. Wartortle thank you for being extremely brave in taking it head on. Your effort was invaluable. Ivysaur, I'm so sorry about your petal. Nurse Joy told me you'll all make a full recovery. However, your petal may never be whole again. I'm so sorry Ivysaur."

"It is what it is Ash" Ivysaur said sighing "we did what we had to do to survive. I can work around a broken petal. I'm just grateful we all survived."

"What Ivysaur said" Wartortle chirped in with "we couldn't outrun the Tyrantrum, battle was inevitable, so I thought I'd get the first shot in. it worked."

"It did" Machoke said in his slow voice "and I'm happy to have played my part. I cannot help but notice though that one of us is missing."

"Ah yeah" Ash said sighing "Charmeleon. Something happened down in the cavern. Something happened to him that has forever changed him. Charmeleon isn't going to be travelling around with us anymore".

"Is he ok?"

"What happened?"

"Where is he?"

"Ash stop being a moron" Pikachu said sternly "you're worrying them all unnecessarily."

"Sorry guys" Ash said sheepishly "just my little joke." Taking out a Pokéball he tossed it in the direction that had a bit of space. While they were expecting Charmeleon they were all shocked as the light kept on growing.

Charizard came out of his Pokéball and stretched his wings and cracked his neck. "Those things are cramped" he growled before realising he was not alone. Looking at the camp he noticed all his teammates staring at him in shock. "What?" he growled.

Instead of an answer every one of them stampeded over to him and piled on him, greeting him. Quickly he shifted his wings so that they didn't get bent behind him as they glomped him.

"All right, all right. That's enough now" Ash said coming over to Charizards aid and began pulling them off his fallen fire type.

"Thanks Ash" he growled looking at them "go on, get the questions over with."

"What happened?" Machoke asked sitting back down.

Hours later after they had all gone to bed Ivysaur woke up and walked out to the camp. Sitting looking up at the stars was Charizard. Sitting beside him he waited for Charizard to speak.

"I always wanted to evolve. As a youngling I knew that I wanted to fly. I have no idea why, but the yearning never left me. When I received a trainer for the first time, I tried my best to become the best. Damian was an idiot, but he was what Arceus picked for me. I remember him sending me out against a Wartortle. I lost badly. He expected me to know moves I had never been taught and thought type disadvantages didn't matter if you believed you were strong. I was barely trained again after that. A month after that I was sent out against a Bellsprout who had clearly been trained and yet again it wiped the floor with me. But still that yearning to become strong stayed with me. I thought sitting on that rock that the rain would make me stronger, after all if you can survive a storm then a water move shouldn't be too much trouble, should it?

I should have died that night Ivysaur. By rights I should no longer be here but then I was saved by Ash and for months afterwards I would often reflect on that night and question why. Why was I saved when thousands of us aren't? Why was I picked over everyone else? Why didn't Arceus give me to Ash to start with if I had a greater destiny than dying on a rock alone? Was the suffering necessary? And then why did Ash send us both away in Porta Vista, did he not trust us to help him? I was so angry when I found out what happened. It was only through talking with his mum that I realised that he trusted us both to help out the people the city. And then Fuchsia happened and he sent me away again."

"That was a collective agreement Charizard" Ivysaur said interrupting for the first time "we got it wrong, or rather the punishment given to you was harsh. But at the time all we could think about was what we could have lost. You have dragons blood flowing through you, and you were remarkably arrogant about the situation. When we told you, you stubbornly ignored what could have happened and focused on the fact you were trying to win a battle. You didn't stop and think that it was the wrong course of action to take. And ever since then your mindset hasn't changed."

"I still think I was right" Charizard said looking back up to the sky "I know what I did was wrong, but I was trying to win a battle so that Ash could progress."

"No, you weren't" Ivysaur said snorting "you were angry that a bug type had you beat. Something that should have been a breeze to get past was beating you, easily. Your arrogance and ego got in the way. Don't look at me like that, you know it to be true. Koga's entire challenge is based on that kind of strategy."

"Hmph" Charizard said "you may have a point. But Ash still should have told us all what moves we can't learn. He's partly at fault too."

"He knows this" Ivysaur said "and he's been beating himself up about it ever since. The question is have you forgiven yourself yet?"

"What do you mean?" Charizard asked confused "forgiven myself for what?"

"For getting it wrong and acting rashly uncaring of the consequences" Ivysaur said "the week away from us was about that more than anything. You were sent away to be given time to think."

"I didn't have time to think" Charizard growled "when I wasn't with Sam at the ranch, I was with his Charizard who took great delight in calling me an arrogant whelp and throwing me around." Letting out a snort of smoke he carried on "I know why, I just don't like the methods used. There are better ways of explaining why I was in the wrong."

"I'm sorry about that" Ivysaur said shaking his head "how are you dealing with killing?"

"Oh, that doesn't enter my thoughts" Charizard said nonchalantly "it was him or me. And if he'd have won, he'd have killed Ash. That can't happen."

"Oh, so you respect him again?" Ivysaur asked smirking.

"I never lost respect for him as a trainer, just as a person." Charizard said giving Ivysaur the stink-eye "mistakes were made from both parties. I can see that more clearly now."

"Are you staying?" Ivysaur asked.

"I'm undecided yet" Charizard replied "we'll see what the week brings. Changing the subject completely when are you evolving?"

Laughing Ivysaur replied "I'm wearing this everstone for a reason. I have no plans to just yet. I still want to master a few more moves. I dunno, I just don't think I'm ready yet."

"It's worth it" Charizard said seriously "I feel right now. Like a hurdle has been jumped and I'm onto the next step."

"Who knows" Ivysaur said standing up "it will happen when it's meant to. Good night Charizard."

Walking back into the tent Ivysaur never noticed a still awake Ash staring at the roof of his tent having heard every word.

The next few days were spent walking along the path. Thankfully for Ash the stream had turned into a river so they were able to wash his clothes. Taking off his top, he rolled his pants up and waded into the river. Ash enjoyed the relaxed nature of what he was doing as he swam about for a bit. He was still covered in bruises, but the water was so gentle around his legs and torso that he just smiled. It was times like this that he really enjoyed travelling. That evening he made it to the Pokémon Centre and quickly headed to bed. Waking up in the middle of the night he noticed something was wrong. The door was open and looking around he noticed Ivysaur had disappeared. Waking everyone up he told them what had happened. Recalling them all he dressed and went to step outside when he was stopped by Nurse Joy who held her finger to her lips and motioned for him to follow her. Walking over to a window she pointed outside. Ash joined her and gasped in awe. Outside on the path headed east were dozens of Bulbasaur and Ivysaur walking along the path.

"What's going on?" Ash asked quietly.

"Something I never thought I'd see. It's the Bulbasaur's migration to the Mysterious Garden." Joy said crying happily.

"Oh yeah," Ash said "Ivysaur told me about that place a while back. It's supposed to be tended to by a Royal Venusaur. A Shaymin sacrificed its life centuries ago to protect the place and it changes place every year. Ivysaur hoped one day to be able to see it. Look the Bulbasaur have gone now so I'm going to try and find my Ivysaur. Hopefully he's ok."

After being told to be careful Ash ran along the path using his aura to pick up the trail. When he came to a fork in the road the trail headed off the path down a small gulley. As stealthily as he could Ash made his way through a hidden path at the bottom. Ahead a huge concentration of aura was gathered in one place and as the forest started to thin out Ash began to see more and more. Coming to an end Ash saw a huge clearing that was covered with Bulbasaur and Ivysaur. The sky was closed off by a huge dome of trees that covered the entire field, but the trees there easily reached forty feet into the air. How the hell was this place concealed? Looking around for a bush he found one that was tall enough to conceal him and hiding behind it he scanned the crowd for his Ivysaur. There must have been at least a hundred Bulbasaur and Ivysaur gathered in this place. He eventually spotted him near the back.

"He's over there Pi" Ash said quietly pointing him out.

As one though everyone quietened and looked towards the opposite side of where Ash was. Huge thick vines were acting as a doorway in between the hedges and when they parted Ash had to hold in a gasp as a huge Venusaur walked out and observed the masses. Taking out his Pokégear he quietly started recording.

"Greetings my young bulbs. It is truly a pleasure to see all of you here on this magical night. On this night we give thanks to Lady Arceus and to Lady Shaymin who sacrificed her life to ensure this place is forever hidden from time. On this night we honour her by evolving and spreading her pollen across the world. It is a great gift you are receiving. Are all of you ready to begin?" through the chorus of "Yes's" came a lone voice of "No."

"Which young bulb said no?" the Venusaur asked looking around curiously.

"I did" came a voice from the back. The crowd parted and Ash was surprised to see it was his Ivysaur. "I'm not ready yet."

The crowd parted as Venusaur walked forwards until he was five feet away. It was only seeing them together that ash realised just how colossal the Venusaur was. It was easily fifteen feet wide and ten feet tall. "Why aren't you ready young bulb?"

"I haven't learned enough yet. My trainer and I have an agreement that when I feel ready and I have learned and mastered every move I can then, and only then will I evolve. I have yet to do so. So, I will not be evolving this night."

"You would defy Lady Arceus' will?" Venusaur asked curiously.

"Lady Arceus' will does not govern me, Lord Venusaur. My will is my own." Ivysaur said.

Mutters went round the collective bulb Pokémon. Here was one of their own openly defying Lady Arceus' will.

"Usually, such blasphemy would be stamped out, but you have made me curious. Why do you believe that?" Venusaur asked.

"I believe that because my trainer is a Chosen One" Ivysaur said shocking them all.

"You lie" Venusaur said growing angry at the words.

"I have no reason to lie" Ivysaur said confidently "My trainer, Ash Ketchum is a Chosen One. Picked by Lady Arceus herself at the age of six and trained in the use of Aura. He then rescued me from abandonment along with others who Arceus set in his path to combat a threat later this year. With him I have become stronger than anyone other than maybe you are here today. Our companions have learned to be feared by gym leaders, Ash is feared by Psychics, and we will defeat the menace together. I have absolute faith in him."

"Your conviction backs up your words young bulb" Venusaur said slowly "however your words contradict you. If you do not believe Arceus' will governs you then why do you praise her for the life you have led so far with your human?"

"I'm afraid I don't have an answer that will satisfy you Lord Venusaur" Ivysaur said "I have seen a lot and been through a lot in the last eight months since I met Ash and I know Lady Arceus put me in Ash's path. However, I have no idea why Arceus placed the burden of survival of us all on a six-year-olds shoulders and then left him to stumble in the dark for the next five years. Her edicts contradict everything I believe in. She should have long since stepped in to sort out the Pokémon world but hasn't. Instead, she's let scum like Team Rocket poach us, given us abusive trainers and expected us to just be happy with our lot in life and refused to directly help Ash knowing that should he fail, the world will burn. Over the last nine months Ash has saved Lord Zapdos from certain death at the hands of Team Rocket, killed an Ancient who nearly destroyed a city almost at the cost of his own life, and permanently eliminated cells of Team Rocket at the cost of his mental and physical health. And Lady Arceus has never once stepped in to help. Why? So, until I get answers to all those Lord Venusaur, I will not trust her word to be absolute."

Silence rang out around the clearing. The gathered Bulbasaur and Ivysaur looked at each other. Every single one of them had wondered about this at some point but couldn't explain it as eloquently as the Ivysaur did.

"You are wise beyond your years" Venusaur said as he turned around and walked back to the front "I will give you a piece of advice. Keep that mindset young bulb and you will go far" turning to the rest he said "This is the first time in three hundred years that I have heard any other bulb utter those words. Every single year I hope beyond hope that one of you will have the strength to ask the necessary questions. Every year after this event I have prayed to Lady Arceus for answers as to why Lady Shaymin sacrificed herself when she could easily have stepped in and saved her life. I have yet to receive an answer. I just have to trust her judgement. You may leave in peace young Ivysaur. And your trainer who is hiding behind that bush may do so as well."

Ash had been quiet throughout the entire speech. He was so proud of Ivysaur for standing up for himself. Hearing his words filled Ash with an enormous sense of pride. Hearing everything put into perspective like that had Ash questioning Arceus again. He had forgotten his main quest due to everything that had happened to him lately. Listening to Ivysaur speak Ash went over the questions he posed to the Venusaur. Hearing Venusaur mention him Ash quickly put his Pokégear away and walked out. He made his way over to Ivysaur and knelt down in front of him.

"I took your advice and talked to Charizard the other day when we were alone about my feelings on the matters we are going through. I even made a speech that will stay between us two. I will also make one now so bear with me. I am incredibly proud to call you a member of my family Ivysaur. I have no doubts that it's been your caring nature that has created the harmonious atmosphere in our group. And from the moment I received you I've been very envious at how wise you are. Your words about Arceus are right. She hasn't given me direct help, which is frustrating. But she has given me something far more important, to me at least. She's given me you. I'm not great at expressing my emotions as you know but I just wanted you to know how much I value you and your friendship. Like Lord Venusaur said, in three hundred years you are the only one to refuse evolution here and call into question why you have to go through with it when you don't want to. Stand tall Ivysaur. I'm very proud of you."

"You are a strange human" Venusaur said "I can see why Arceus chose you young human, just as I can see why the wise bulb was chosen to be your partner. But you must leave now, it is time for our celebration."

Nodding Ash stood up as Venusaur roared and a path opened up where Ash had entered. Straight backed Ash and Ivysaur walked out of the garden and up towards the valley. Behind them huge thick vines prevented access as they emerged on the path. They walked in silence to the Pokémon Centre. Walking in he said goodnight to a very sleepy looking Nurse Joy and went to bed. Before he went to sleep Ivysaur looked over at his sleeping trainer and said a quiet "thank you" before drifting off. The next morning after explaining what happened to Joy and his Pokémon Ash headed back out onto the road.

The following few days were spent just chatting and walking. He saw his first signpost that said Pallet Town 87km and began for the first time in a long time to get excited about going home. "If we try and walk 20km a day we will be there in four and a half days. But it should take five at most" Ash told his friends.

Knowing the end was in sight they pressed on. The next day however they came across something very curious. Ash had easily spotted it, due to his aura pinging that someone was close by and walked over to the bush.

"Why are you hiding in there?" Ash asked. Hearing a muttered expletive, a young boy came out of the bushes with a camera.

"I saw a Charizard flying overhead from a distance before you came into view and was hoping to get a picture of you." the boy said.

"That's very creepy" Ash said frowning "why are you being a peeping Tom?"

"Oh no," the boy said "you misunderstand me. I wasn't after a picture of you. It was your Pokémon I was after taking a picture of. My names Todd and I work for Pokémon Pal. I travel around the region taking pictures of Pokémon in their natural habitats."

"Oh ok" Ash said less confused "My names Ash. Next time ask for a picture, ok?"

"But how would I get the perfect picture of you guys being relaxed? Forced pictures don't encapsulate what I'm after capturing." Todd said hanging his head. "Say do you know of anywhere where I can take pictures of wild Pokémon?"

Taking out his Pokégear he quickly showed Todd the many pictures he had taken. "Well, there's the Safari Zone, there's a place next to it called the Laramie Ranch just outside of Fuchsia City. No Pokémon are allowed to be caught there, they are all wild but as long as you don't annoy them, they'll leave you alone. I've just come from a place called Granpa Canyon where there's an excavation happening for fossil Pokémon. It's about a five day walk back in that direction. There's a Pokémon Centre along the way where you can stay. If you decide to go there, then make sure to check in with the leader of the dig. He's called Brandon. If he says no pictures, then it means no pictures. On the road to Celadon City from Fuchsia City there's also a place called Diglett Valley which is beautiful. I'd highly recommend going there anyway. I'm planning on revisiting it when I have the chance just to see the natural ecosystem. Celadon City Park is home to a few bug Pokémon, Viridian Forest too. Rock Tunnel is good for ground and rock Pokémon. The coral reefs at Porta Vista should be open to visitors now too. As you can see there are many places available to you."

Todd just cycled through the pictures Ash had taken and looked up with awe at the various places. "There's so many places to visit" he said quietly "why haven't you published these?"

"Mainly because places like Diglett Valley and the Laramie Ranch are private places that need to be preserved" Ash relied "If I published photos, then tourists may ruin the areas. Professor Oak and I are having a meeting with the regional board for Outstanding Natural Beauty in about six months about putting things in place to protect these areas at all cost. Here, here's my email address. If you find anything you feel is worth protecting or need more information about these areas, then feel free to ask. I'm not an expert by any means but I have been to these places, so I know what they're like. I hope you find what you're after Todd."

"Thank you" Todd said, "where are you headed?"

"I'm headed home. Pallet Town is around six days away so I'm headed there. We're on the gym challenge" Ash said, "I'm then headed for Seafoam Islands and Cinnabar Island."

"Well good luck" Todd said as he walked away looking at Ash's card with his email address on it.

Ash simply shook his head and walked away. "That was very strange Pikachu, wasn't it?"

"Very" Pi nodded "he's lucky we didn't attack first."

"Personal growth" Ash said laughing. A few hours later Ash came across another strange sight as out in the middle of nowhere a building slowly came into view. In front of the doors several people were standing in a queue. Walking up towards them Ash tapped one of them on the shoulder.

"Excuse me, but what's going on? What is this place?" he asked.

"How can you not know of this place? This place is world famous. This is the Pokémon League Admissions building."

"Oh, for Arceus sake" Ash said shaking his head "another useless bloody place like the Pokétech where getting a pass to the Pokémon League is based on sitting an exam. Come on Pi. This place will give us nothing."

"Is that so?" a man asked walking out and standing in front of Ash. He was fairly tall, wearing a blue sports outfit and seemed to be athletically built "and who are you to say that young man?"

"I am Junior Professor Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town. I have seen most of these exams you do, in fact I redesigned a few for Professor Oak a few years ago but the people running this place refused to implement them. You use the same exam every year. You give people nonsense questions like guess the silhouette of a ball, which could be any bloody Pokémon that's curled up and then mark people down if it's not the one you have personally chosen. The only worthy challenge this place has is using Pokémon in a battle that aren't your own to test your skill."

The crowd that was assembled began to mutter at Ash's comments. Was he really that smart? Were they really going to be shafted by having to guess what Pokémon was curled up into a ball?

"Well, you'll have no problem passing then wont you?" the man asked furious at the lack of respect.

"I already have six badges" Ash said shaking his head "I have no need for a fake one that gives me a free pass to the league. But I suppose it will be good to place it in my trophy cabinet at home. Lead the way."

Turning around the man led everyone in the hall where they all received their numbers. Ash was given Number 1

"I'm going to need your Pokéballs for the challenge. You're not permitted to use your own Pokémon" the instructor said.

"If you think I'm going to hand over my Pokémon you must have a screw loose" Ash said snorting incredulously "This whole thing is a farce that I'd rather get over and done with. No, you're not having my Pokémon. I can promise I won't use my own but that's the most you're getting from me."

Growling the man moved on to the next person as Ash sat down on a bench and observed the people around him. Many of them looked unhappy at his blasé attitude, some were eying him up curiously. One girl blatantly batted her eyelids at him. Ash just shook his head and waited. Ash was very surprised when a Nurse Joy came over and started chatting with him. He learned from her that she was planning on challenging the league to become the first Joy Champion. She was doing this alongside her healing training. Ash spoke to her about his interactions with her various relatives and what he'd been up to lately but soon enough though they were all gathered into the big hall that was full of computers. Ash of course was sat directly in front of everyone. Shaking his head again he waited for the instructor to explain the rules.

"The first challenge is to see how well you know Pokémon characteristics. You will be asked twenty questions increasing in difficulty. The pass mark for this round is seventy-five percent. Anyone under that will not be admitted into the following rounds. You may begin whenever you're ready."

Ash breezed through the first fifteen questions. And only struggled on one which was about which way the spirals on a Poliwhirl go. As it was fifty-fifty Ash just guessed and moved on. Soon enough he had finished and waited for the next part.

"Ok, times up" the instructor said, "let's see how well you've all done." Looking up at the screen Ash noticed that he had come joint first with Nurse Joy on 19/20 with the answers displayed. The one he got wrong was the Poliwhirl question.

"Not as smart as you think, eh Ash?" the instructor said nastily.

"You asked us which way a Poliwhirls spiral goes" Ash said shrugging his shoulders. "It's a fifty-fifty. I'm not bothered about getting that one wrong."

Ignoring him the instructor looked at the board and had to eliminate ten people who didn't get the fifteen correct answers needed.

"The next part is how well you recognise parts of Pokémon. Again, you need seventy-five percent. The first question is to identify this silhouette." It was a blanked out ball. Ash just started laughing.

"You see what I mean? It could be bloody anything. Off the top of my head, I can name six Pokémon it could be" Ash said shaking his head and putting down Sandshrew.

Furious the instructor carried on "the answer is Jiggypuff seen from above."

Again, Ash stated laughing "what absolute bollocks. Can I ask how many people here put that?" looking around he noticed only one person put their hand up.

"Do you mind Mr Ketchum. This is still an exam" the instructor shouted.

"Not my fault you're making shit up as you go along." Ash said, "carry on then."

"What Pokémon has this swirl on its belly?"

"Haven't we just done this?" Ash muttered and put in Poliwag. He knew it changed direction when they evolved and as he knew he had got the previous round wrong he knew he was right with this one.

"Next question. What Pokémon has this tail."

"What Pokémon has these hands."

And so, it went on with Ash putting in who he thought it was. When the scores were revealed Ash found he was joint first again with Nurse Joy with 8/10.

"It seems that you do have some talent then" the instructor said passing by "But the last challenge will show everyone how incompetent you are."

"Bring it on" Ash said standing up "I've already shown everyone here how much of a farce your questions are. Don't be mad at me for pointing it out."

Growling the instructor took to the podium. "Congratulations to the ones who have passed. You have all done very well. Now it is time for the last exam. Battles. In this test you will be given three random Pokémon and face off against me in a battle. You simply have to win. However, there's a catch. You will not be able to know what Pokémon you have selected until it is released in battle. Is that understood?" receiving nods he led them all out to the field out back. "You will battle in the order that you came for the exams. That means Nurse Joy and Ash Ketchum will receive their Pokémon first. Would you two please come forward."

Walking forward with Joy he knew what was going to happen. He was going to be given the least trained Pokémon on offer. "Joy these are for you" he said handing her three Pokéballs "and these are for you Ketchum" he said handing him three. "Good luck to the both of you."

Joy won two out of the three battles she had and passed. Ash stepped onto the battlefield and handled the three balls he was given. The instructor was an idiot Ash decided. Using his aura on them he discovered just who he had. Smirking, he could work with these depending on what moves they knew and who his opponents would be.

Taking the place opposite Ash the instructor sent out a Rhyhorn. He had battled one before, so he knew their weaknesses.

"Let's go Sandslash" Ash said surprising the instructor.

"How did you know what Pokémon it was?" the instructor said. "Rhyhorn use Take Down"

"Trade secret" Ash said "Sandslash Dig."

Sandslash quickly dove underground and out of reach of the Rhyhorn who stopped and looked around confused. "Earthquake Rhyhorn" the man said.

"Come on up quick Sandslash and use Sand Attack" Sandslash did as asked and threw the Rhyhorn away from it before blinding it by throwing sand in its eyes. Furiously it started charging anywhere it could.

"This one is over. Circle around, wait for it to charge past you and Use Slash on its hind legs." Ash commanded.

The instructor grimaced as he could do nothing to a charging Rhyhorn. Sandslash executed its moves perfectly and slashed at the Rhyhorn's legs making it buckle and pant exhausted. "Finish it with Slash" Sandslash lit up both sets of claws and swiped several times across its face before delivering the final blow and knocking it out. Recalling it he looked over at the instructor who was red with anger.

"Next?" Ash asked smirking.

"Let's go Poliwrath" the instructor shouted releasing a big blue Pokémon.

"Let's go Bellsprout" Ash said looking over at the furious man.

"I demand to know how you know what Pokémon it is before you release it" he shouted.

"Bellsprout, use Razor Leaf" Ash said. Immediately Bellsprout hit Poliwrath with razor sharp leaves. They were nowhere near as sharp as his Ivysaurs ones Ash observed but they still seem to do some damage as it cried out in pain.

"Charge through and use Submission" the man shouted. Poliwrath obeyed and began charging forwards.

"Vine Whip its legs to trip it up. Then use Stun Spore." Ash shouted. The poor Poliwrath went flying on its face as the Bellsprout stepped out of its way and sent yellow powder all over the field and the big blue Pokémon. "Vine Whip until it faints" he Poliwrath struggled to get to its feet. Every time it managed it, it received a vine to its face, its back, its legs. After a few minutes of being battered it simply gave up and didn't try to move.

"Well done, Bellsprout" Ash said recalling it. "Last battle" he shouted.

Growling the instructor released a Fearow.

"Let's go Meowth" Ash said making the man start to froth at the mouth.

"Fearow, use Drill Peck" he shouted. "And don't stop."

Shaking his head at the man Ash just waited until the bird was about twenty feet away, its rotating beak heading straight to the Meowth who waited for a command. "Be patient Meowth and trust me. Wait for now, we need to get it close but be ready. Screech now" Ash shouted. Immediately the Meowth began caterwauling in the Fearows direction. Fearow was too close to be able to dodge as the sound hit its ears and caused it considerable pain and it went ploughing into the ground as it was unable to focus on its target. "Fury Swipes" Ash said as Meowth leapt upon the Fearow and started slashing away. Frantically the Fearow threw Meowth away and flapped its wings to try and escape. "Quickly Meowth, use Slash on the joint above its wings." Meowth did just that, as it started to rise it leapt onto Fearows back. The agony Fearow was in was unbearable for it. It screeched in pain as it dropped back down the ground, one wing hanging limply as it eyed its opponent. Panting in exhaustion Fearow simply fell backwards.

"Well done, Meowth" Ash said calling it back and walking onto the field as the crowd had been stunned into silence. Before anyone could say anything, Ash knelt down and gently grabbed its wing and began to heal its joint. The Fearow opened its eyes to see what was happening and was getting ready to attack when it felt the calmness overtake him and it passed out. When he was done Ash stood up and called the Institutions Nurse Joy over. "It needs at least three days rest to help the wing recover. After that he should be fine."

Looking up he saw the man was about to explode and asked while smirking "can I have my badge now?" That set the man off.

"No, you are disqualified from the examination for excessive force and cheating." The crowd immediately began to boo and hiss at the man. It was plain to see that he was humiliated by the obviously more skilled trainer and had been all day from the moment they met.

Ash simply laughed and held up his hands to the crowd to quieten them. "I knew this would happen. It's ok. I didn't want the badge to start with but hopefully next year you'll have grown into your big boy knickers and won't be as fragile." Ash walked over to the counter and placed the Pokéball belt down with the three Pokémon he received. Pikachu jumped from the table he had been sat on to Ash's shoulder and they made their way from the field, out of the building and back onto the path.

"Well, that was illuminating" Ash said "I got to use three new Pokémon that I would never have used before. So at least this day wasn't a total bust."

The rest of the day passed by fairly quickly. He was now only two days out from Pallet Town and Ash was getting more worried as the time went on. Charizard would likely be leaving him very soon. He didn't want anyone to leave but a deal was a deal. As he was walking down the road, he noticed a strange shadow appear above him. Looking up he was amazed to see a Meowth Balloon descending in front of him on the path. As it touched the ground two people jumped out and tethered the balloon to the side of the path.

"Hey, It's Jessie and James" Pikachu said as they wandered over to them.

"Hey guys" Ash said, "you guys, ok?"

"No" James said looking sad "we tried to quit Team Rocket but when we told the boss he threatened to kill us. So, after talking it over Jessie and I came up with a plan."

"You mean I came up with a plan while you cried" Jessie said shaking her head "we decided to quit in secret, but still make it seem like we're part of Team Rocket. That way we don't get killed, the boss thinks we still work for him, and we keep getting paid. But we need your help."

"What can I do?" Ash asked warily "and where's the third member of your group? Didn't you have a talking Meowth?"

"We did" Jessie said sadly "but he was taken off us when we were arrested and imprisoned, and we haven't found him yet."

"We've been searching everywhere for him for six months now" James said morosely "but we have no idea where he's gone. We miss him."

"We do" Jessie said agreeing. "Anyway, we came up with a plan. All we need from you is to go along with it."

"Go on" Ash said folding his arms.

"Well, the boss has asked for fortnightly updates on you" Jessie said "all we need from you is to let us follow you and see what you're doing. Obviously, we'll select what we say to him in the reports, but they'll still be as accurate as possible. We'll stage attacks on you, so it makes it look real, but we won't really be trying."

Ash looked at the nervous duo for a few minutes while he went over in his head what the had planned. "Wait there" Ash said as he walked out of earshot and chatted with Pikachu. After a few minutes of discussion Ash walked back over.

"No deal" he said causing them to look crestfallen "however I have an alternative. Your boss knows that I'm onto him given how his agents attacked me at the Safari Zone. He also likely knows that your talk about defection and sudden change of heart is likely a lie too. So, what I propose is this. You guys follow me. But you openly talk to me as if you're gaining my trust. After all I'm only twelve in a few weeks, you guys are nearly adults, so he'll think that I'm naïve and that it was a one off. I will give you enough information about me to keep him off your backs, but you guys provide me with information too. Obviously that bit will be between us. He doesn't know I know you're from Team Rocket, does he?"

"I don't think so" James said slowly looking at Jessie "I don't think he knows we've interacted at all up to now."

"Then whenever you interact with me ditch those Rocket outfits so it looks like we're just trainers meeting up and chatting" Ash said, "we know eventually you'll be reported to him about it, but at least this way he can see that you're trying an alternative to what the other two did and are succeeding in gaining my trust."

"Your idea has a lot of merit" Jessie said thoughtfully "how do we know you won't just turn us in though?"

"You don't" Ash said simply "but I have no obligation to do any of this for you either. And my offer is the least painful for you."

"So, we become your informants?" James said frowning "if that gets found out then we're as good as dead."

"I will keep your names out of anything I'm told." Ash said "I'm already hunting for information about what happened ten years ago to my dad. I can simply say I found information on my own like I have done with the rest of what I've found out. I'll tell you what, I'll give you guys a week to think about it. I'll be at my mums home in Pallet Town. My birthday is coming up so I'm spending at least a week with my her. After that I'll be headed to Cinnabar Island so you can find me there if you're not comfortable finding me in Pallet Town."

"That seems reasonable" Jessie said nodding "we'll talk it over. Thanks Ash."

"Yeah" James said, "thank you for at least hearing us out and not dismissing us."

"I'll see you soon then" Ash said as Jessie and James began preparing their balloon. Walking down the road Ash pulled out his Pokégear and rang Professor Oak. Telling him what happened concerned Sam.

"Ash" he said, "they could be playing you here."

"I know" Ash said "I have no reason to trust them but I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt this time. They have one chance Sam. After that I turn them in."

"Very well" Sam said, "let's hope your hunch is correct."

"Me too" Ash replied "it's also why I've told you. I know full well what the repercussions of working alongside Team Rocket will have for my future. Or even the perception I'm working alongside them. At least by informing you, you know the truth."

"And I'm glad you did so Ash" Oak said "or I'd be severely disappointed in you for doing so. And it would be difficult to stand by you Ash. I cannot afford to do so. And neither can you."

"I'm aware" Ash said "I just have to hope I'm right about them. Can you do me a favour. Can you try and find out what happened to their Meowth? It talks, so it shouldn't be that difficult to know where he was sent. I have a hunch where it went, but I'm hoping I'm wrong."

"What's your hunch?" Sam asked curiously.

"I told one person about the attack in Viridian apart from you and mum" Ash replied "and he has the authority to do what he wants in Viridian as its gym leader. I still think Giovanni has some kind of connection to Team Rocket. Every bit of evidence I've come across points to him knowing what actually happened at his gym that day. I just have no proof. He's too clean, you know?"

"Yes" Sam said sighing "I know what you mean. The aftermath of your father's disappearance was a frantic time but he was extraordinarily helpful in aiding the investigation. Almost too helpful now I think on it."

"I've only told my mother of my suspicions Sam" Ash said "so please keep it between us. I'll let my mum know I've told you when I see her. I'm a day or two out from Pallet Town so we'll catch up properly when I'm home."

"No worries, Ash" Sam said cheerfully "I shall see you soon."

Hanging up Ash carried on down the road walking slightly quicker than usual. By the end of the day, they had made fantastic time and were less than a day out from Pallet Town. Making the campfire Ash told everyone of what had happened with Team Rocket. Every one of them were wary of Ash's plan but decided to trust his judgement.

"If I'm wrong then you have free reign on them" Ash said smiling. Fortunately, this made them all slightly happier. They had all had interactions with Team Rocket and apart from Machoke they had all been deadly interactions. The next day Ash quickly packed up and after their training session was over with headed back on down the road. Around midday Ash came to a crossroads with a sign at it leading four ways. Pallet Town was ahead, 5km away. Fuchsia was 130km behind them, a dirt track that wasn't there when he left Pallet Town headed East and Route 1 was the final available route to take. Smiling Ash headed down the road to Pallet Town. It was hard to believe he had been gone just over nine months. The Pokémon League tournament was three away. So much had happened to him in such a short space of time that it was hard to believe that it had been less than a year. Cresting the hill on the path Ash stopped dead at the sight. There in the valley below them lay Pallet Town.

"Look Pi" Ash breathed out "we're home."

Chapter 27: Chapter 27

Chapter Text

For everyones benefit Ash left Pallet Town on his journey during the second week of August and it is now May the following year. I've made it so the League Tournament begins two weeks before new trainers set off on their journey so they have a year to prepare for the next one.

Chapter 27- Birthday Celebrations

Waking down the lane towards home Ash reminisced about how far he had come in just under ten months. Since leaving near the end of last August he had gained six badges, gained many family members, ok he'd nearly died a few times, but he had come out tougher and more knowledgeable for it. He had grown in more than just height. There was something about being in the real world that helped you more than any book could. His interactions with people had helped him immensely as he knew when he left Pallet Town that he would be forced to interact with people, something he was useless at outside Sam and his mum but being on the road has a way of forcing you to challenge your fears and face them head on. Meeting Brock was definitely the highlight of the first few months. He did love putting the Sensational Sisters in their place though so that was in his top five. Meeting every member of the Elite Four was something he didn't think he'd do until he was battling them either, but he did. He hadn't forgotten about his quest to find out about his dad, he just hadn't been around the places his dad visited but that would change on Cinnabar Island. He was determined to find out what his father had seen.

The cruise they had been on seemed such a long time ago when in reality it was only a five months. Had he really not seen his mum in all that time? Thinking of his mum made him tear up. She had suffered so much in such a short space of time, and he had been very lax about speaking to her since Fuchsia City. Shaking his head, he vowed to be a better son and as he entered Pallet Town, he took a deep breath. He didn't realise how much he missed home until he breathed in the Pallet Town air. It felt amazing. Walking through the streets he observed how much busier it was now than when he left. Seeing a crowd gathered outside a place he walked up to them and was about to ask someone what was going on when the crowd parted, and Ash observed something he'd never seen. It was a restaurant. Now while that was strange in itself it was the name that caught Ash's attention. Delia's. Immediately Ash knew who owned this place.

"Hey Ash" someone said an angelic voice table outside "long time no see."

"Hello Miss Oak" Ash aid blushing.

Laughing at his predicament the lady stood up and hugged Ash. He noticed that he was taller than her now "how many times do I have to say call me Daisy?"

"Hi Daisy" Ash said as he gently pushed her off him, his face beetroot red "how are you doing?"

"I'm good thanks Ash. I'm just visiting Gramps and thought I'd come and have some food here. Your mum is an amazing cook." Daisy said cheerfully "you blush so much still whenever I hug you."

Sitting down opposite her Ash looked around "she never even told me she'd had this place built" he said ignoring the last comment.

"I didn't know this was hers until Gramps told me yesterday. Having said that the name should have given it away" Daisy said laughing. Ash couldn't help but think about how beautiful it sounded. Pulling himself together Ash shook his head.

"I'm glad she took my advice and had it built." Ash said smiling.

"Everyone is" Daisy said "we've been telling her for years her food is amazing. But she always said she didn't have the money to open a place like this. I guess she decided to bite the bullet and get a loan for it."

"I gave her the money" Ash said absentmindedly still looking around astonished at his mums new place.

"You did?" Daisy asked surprised.

"Yeah" Ash said finally paying attention to her again "your gramps published all my scribblings I left at his over the years behind my back. He told me he used a pseudonym as I was underage but because I was about to start my journey my name had to be revealed for legal purposes. So, when he handed me and mum a folder with our new bank account from all the profits, we were very surprised. If I wanted, I wouldn't have had to work or even set out on my journey. When we got home that night, I told her to pursue her dream as she'd spent the last eleven years looking after me. I wasn't an easy child to raise, I'm very much aware of that and she deserved to live her life too."

"That's so sweet" a voice said from another table "what a kind boy you are."

"Thanks Mrs Hakiri" Ash said smiling at the old lady who lived just down the road from Ash "but it's true. Growing up with the difficulties I had with social interaction must have been difficult for her. Not to mention everything else that came with raising me. I am surprised she never told me about this place though."

"In her defence it's only been open about three weeks" Mrs Hakiri said "and she been very busy the last few months what with the wedding of Lance, the cruise, Porta Vista etc. I heard about that by the way Ash. You were incredibly brave but very foolish to take on a Pokémon like that on your own."

Smiling good naturedly at the old lady Ash just nodded as he stood up. "I couldn't let it harm the people in the city. Anyway, Daisy I need to be going. I haven't seen mum yet to let her know I'm back."

"Then don't let me hold you up Ash" Daisy said standing up and hugging Ash again making him go bright red "she should be at home by now. She only left about half an hour ago."

Leaving a laughing Daisy Ash started walking down the path towards home, trying his best to ignore Pikachu and his teasing.

"Maybe it will be her that you're destined to be with" Pikachu said.

Sighing Ash shook his head "no, I doubt it. She's extraordinarily beautiful and can get any guy she wants. Not only that but she's nineteen and I'm only twelve in three days."

"Wow" Pikachu said stopping laughing "it sounds like you have a big crush on her."

"I don't know if it's a crush Pi" Ash said simply as he sat down on a bench "Daisy was the first person I knew that wouldn't put up with me being a loner and would come and sit beside me during my playdates' as a child. She would actively tell me what she thought of my attitude. She has never been afraid to do so either but she was also the first person I ever saw other than myself who had such an affinity with Pokémon. Oaks Charizard likes three people. Sam, myself and Daisy. Sam because he was his trainer, me because I showed no fear of him growing up and would sit and talk for hours to him. But Daisy was and is different. Just her touch calms Pokémon and she doesn't have aura. She's an amazing breeder but an equally amazing person. Whoever she ends up with will be a very lucky person."

"Wow" Pikachu said, "I'm sorry for teasing you."

"It's ok" Ash said standing up "at times I hate having aura because I know I'd be good enough for her, but I have no choice in who I end up with. But I know she's too good for me. Anyway, let's get walking shall we. We've already wasted enough time chatting."

Standing up Ash carried on walking down the path listening to his own thoughts. Pikachu was doing the same. He had never once heard Ash talk about another person the way he talked about Daisy. It was clear from their interaction how smitten Ash was with her. It did seem to be one-sided though, which made Pikachu very sad. Pokémon and human romances could not be more different, and it often left Pikachu confused at the time humans spent during courtship. Shaking his head from his thoughts he decided he'd talk to Delia at some point during the week about Ash and Daisy. Maybe she had some insight into their relationship.

Stopping in front of the door Ash took a big breath and fished out his key from his backpack. It had made its way to the bottom of his bag over the last ten months but eventually he found it. Putting it into the lock he walked in and put his rucksack at the doorway, closed the door and walked into the house. He immediately knew where his mum was due to her singing. Looking at the clock he noticed it was 4pm, laundry time Ash mused. Walking into the kitchen Ash poured himself and Pikachu a glass of water and waited for his mum to appear. Several minutes later she did so.

"Hi Ash" his mum said absentmindedly as she walked into the kitchen, her arms full of laundry. Ash counted to three under his breath and sure enough at three Delia screamed "ASH!" dropping the clothes onto the table she swept her son up into a big hug. Ash only realised she was sobbing when the hug didn't end after ten seconds. Putting his arms around her he let her cry and just enjoyed the hug. He had missed his mother so much. The last time he had seen her had been Vermillion City five months ago just after his near-death experience. So, it wasn't a surprise that she kept the hug going for so long. Letting go she grabbed his face in her hands and just looked at him with tears still flowing down her face. Grabbing him back into a hug she said, "I've missed you so much Ashy."

"Missed you too mum" Ash replied kissing her on the side of the head.

"Come on" Delia said dragging him into the living room and making him sit on the chair "wait there a minute." Ash really had no choice he mused as he looked around the living room. He noticed a glass cabinet had been placed in the corner with several items Ash had sent to her. Standing up he looked closer at them. Several were trinkets he had picked up on his travels, some were from their cruise together and some were items he had found in various marts that he knew she'd love. Smiling he sat back down as he heard her come back into the room with two cups of teas and a plate of biscuits.

"So" Delia said with a happy smile on her face "tell me what you've been up to." the next several hours Ash and his mum talked about everything that had happened in the five months they had been apart. From meeting new partners, battling trainers, losing Pikachu outside Fuchsia, Grampa Canyon (he left out the near-death bit) and finally the Pokémon Institute.

"Yeah, your dad didn't like them either." Delia said looking at the clock "we'll continue this in a little while. I need to go lock up the restaurant. I'll pick up tea on the way back. I don't fancy cooking so will take out do?"

"Sounds perfect mum" Ash said smiling "I'm going to go have a bath while you're out. Do you need any money?"

Waving his offer away she replied "No, I have cash on me. Go and get a bath and we'll talk some more. We have a lot to catch up on." Grabbing him into a hug again Delia grabbed her purse and keys and left the house while Ash made his way upstairs and into his room. A new glass cabinet had been placed in here too only rather than trinkets it housed his evolution stones and his Old Amber. Ignoring this for now Ash stripped, grabbed a towel and had an amazing bath. They're so underrated Ash mused. An hour later Ash decided he'd been in here long enough and left to go to his room where he discovered an issue. His old clothes no longer fit him. Digging into his bag he pulled out his spare travelling clothes and walked downstairs to see his mum had laid the table on for them.

Sitting down he said "Mum, at some point this week we're going to have to go shopping. None of my clothes fit anymore."

Laughing she nodded "well you have grown a bit in the last ten months. You're nearly a foot taller than you were when you left so it's not a surprise. We'll go to Viridian tomorrow. How long do I have you for?"

"Well, as it's my birthday this week, and we always go to the beach for that I decided I'll be home for at least a week, maybe ten days depending on how I feel. I have around three months until the league starts and I want to get the last two badges and have at least two months of training under our belt before I head to the league."

"Having a Charizard to fly to Cinnabar and back should be very helpful" Delia said as she sat down and started dishing up.

"Ah" Ash said, "well I don't know if he'll stay around or not."

"Why?" Delia asked pausing in her actions.

Ash explained fully what had happened with Charizard, from what he did as a Charmeleon to evolving to rescue him from the Aerodactyl (he still played down the life-or-death part). "So, we've had a lot of issues lately. He still listens to me, but I told him that by the time we reach or leave Pallet Town to let me know what his decision is. I'll miss him mum should he leave."

"Have you told him that?" Delia asked concerned.

"I have yeah" Ash said "he was getting ready to rampage after he evolved but I calmed him down and explained what he meant to me. He calmed down instantly and since then he's been great. He goes flying every day, he trains more seriously but he also keeps an eye on us more. I don't think he thinks we notice but he does."

"It'll work out Ash" Delia said smiling "have faith."

That night after Ash had gone to bed Pikachu made his way downstairs. He told Ash that planned to have a look around his old home to see what had changed. Ash just smiled and nodded. But as Pikachu entered the kitchen, he noticed Delia was sat at the table clearly in thought. Pikachu wondered if he should do it another night when Delia spoke up.

"What didn't he tell me Pikachu?"

"I'm not sure what you mean Mrs Ketchum" Pikachu replied warily.

"Pikachu, what did he leave out" she said looking straight at him.

"I'm not sure I can tell you" Pikachu said hopping onto the counter "Ash obviously has reasons for keeping things from you, and it isn't my place to let you know."

"Pikachu" Delia said sighing "I won't confront him. This will stay between us, I assure you. but something else has him troubled, and I know when he's hiding something."

"He's been contemplating a lot of things lately" Pikachu said "some things I'm not going to tell you so don't ask. They're quite serious but Ash wants to figure things out for himself before he talks to anyone. Yesterday though we had a very serious conversation. For the first time since I've known him, he expressed his loathing of having Aura."

"Oh wow" Delia said "why?"

"We found your restaurant by sheer accident" Pikachu said, "and outside sitting down was a young woman named Daisy."

"Ah" Delia said nodding "things are starting to make more sense now. Daisy was the only person Ash interacted with growing up that was close to his age. I say close, she's seven years older than him, but you know what I mean. They would spend hours together chatting about Pokémon, or rather she'd talk at him while he would sit and listen. When he became an apprentice with Sam, Daisy began her own journey, so they lost touch. But I could always see how much he adored her. I take it he told you all this?"

"Not in as many words" Pikachu said "but I'm smart enough to be able to read between the lines. But something Ash said before we arrived here has stuck with me all evening. He said 'at times I hate having aura because I know I'd be good enough for her, but I have no choice in who I end up with. But I know she's too good for me.' That was the third time since I became his partner that he's talked about another woman."

"Oh?" Delia asked curiously "who were the other two?"

"The first was when he first met Lorelei in Cerulean" Pikachu said laughing "he was so tongue tied that she came and sat beside him and talked to him, all he could do was gargle incoherently for a good thirty seconds. The second time was when he met Lt Surges daughter the day before you arrived at Vermillion for the cruise. She was closer to his age, and both got on so well that Lt Surge drops her name into emails every now and then. I think he approves of Ash and would love nothing more than to see them get together. Ash however isn't like most boys. Aura dictates who he'll be with, and we have a running joke going in the group that it will end up being someone he's offended in the last ten months."

"Yes" Delia said laughing "that would be just like Ash. It is worrying though. He's starting to develop these feelings earlier in life than an aura wielder usually would. Usually when the wielder hits 16-year-old their body sends out the signal. It seems he's going to go through aura puberty much sooner. I'll have to look through some books, but I don't think there's any precedent for Ash."

"We don't think so either" Pikachu said "but I think it is becoming an issue for him that he has no say in a lot of aspects in his life. Over the last ten months all of us have developed a resentment for Arceus and her lack of help. Coupled with his near-death experiences that seemingly happen every month and now on top of that he's going through puberty sooner than normal… he's struggling. But he won't talk about it with anyone."

"That's because he can't" Delia said sadly "his father was the same. It's difficult to explain to someone who's not going through the same issues how you're feeling because the other person has no idea what is happening. It's heart-breaking knowing I can't help him."

"He has people who will listen, and he'll always have us" Pikachu said.

"Ah, but one of you is going to leave soon." Delia said, "which Ash won't handle well."

"No" Pikachu replied "he won't. He's putting on a brave face about it, but he has this kinship with Charizard that he doesn't have with any of the others, me included. He's very protective of him."

"He would be" Delia said smiling gently at Pikachu "Before he met you all he wanted was to emulate his dad. So, while it wasn't an easy choice, he would have taken a Charmander if you decided to stay wild. Plus, all of you have been abandoned at some point, and I'm sure he feels Red abandoned us even if he won't say it out loud."

"He has done" Pikachu said nodding "not often but he does talk about him from time to time and he's mentioned that he better have a good reason for not being around when he's found. I do have a question though."

"Go on" Delia said curiously.

"Why haven't you moved on?" he asked "From my understanding it's just Aura wielders that have the instinct, not their mates. So, you can be with someone else."

"Put simply, it's because of love Pikachu. I fell deeply in love with Red" she said looking out of the window "I knew from the moment I met him that he was it for me. Throughout our teenage years we would often spend hours just lying together watching the stars and talked about everything. When he told me about aura I was devastated, as was he. We thought we were destined to be together and then suddenly he told me that he didn't have a choice in who he could be with. I didn't speak to him for months afterwards as I thought he was leading me on. And then out of nowhere he turned up at my door not long after his sixteenth birthday and just kissed me. I still remember it like it was yesterday, Pikachu. There has never been another man that I've met that gave me the same feelings that Red did. And to this day whenever I look at his picture over the mantlepiece or think about him I suddenly become that teenager again."

"Oh wow" Pikachu said stunned "I'm sorry if you thought I was being rude. It was just something I wondered."

"Oh, don't worry about it Pikachu. I'm a woman in my early forties. I don't get as picky with these things anymore." Delia said laughing. "Now, what else is Ash worried about?"

"Apart from Charizard and Aura?" Pikachu said "not much really. He hasn't talked about his mission from Arceus in a while, that could be because of everything that's happened since Fuchsia City."

"What happened at Grampa Canyon?" Delia asked looking at him. Pikachu immediately began to look wary "Pikachu, I know what happened. I just want to know why it was kept from me."

"I'm not the one to ask about that day" Pikachu said looking at her "you should ask Ash. I wasn't with him for any of it as we were separated, I was just there for the aftermath. How did you find out?"

"When living fossils are found in an undiscovered underground cavern in Kanto it's a pretty big deal, so who do you think is told about it?" Delia asked.

"Well, I suppose the Elite Four, tv crews, the regional profess… ah damn. Sam was told, wasn't he?" Pikachu asked.

"Yes, he was" Delia said "while I was standing at the side of him. Brandon, I believe his name was came to Pallet Town a few days ago and spoke to Sam about the next dig at Pokémopolis. I just happened to be there at the time, and he didn't stop apologising for what happened to Ash but also raved at his discoveries. Needless to say, I was very angry that I was finding out that my only son nearly died, and I wouldn't have known about it. So why did Ash not tell me?"

"In his defence he hasn't spoken to anyone other than Charizard about that day" Pikachu said "And I don't think he ever will unless pushed to do so. Ivysaur was severely injured, Charizard forced himself to evolve to fight the Aerodactyl and Ash nearly died, again. That and he hasn't really spoken to you properly in the last few months. He said himself the other day that he has a lot of apologising to do to you. Maybe he will tell you."

"We both know he won't Pikachu" Delia said wryly finishing off her brew "he's far too much like his father in that regard. If it would anger or upset me Red wouldn't tell me either. It caused so many needless arguments because he was trying to protect me when all I wanted was the truth."

"Yup" Pikachu said "that's Ash. I'm sorry I couldn't be more help. But they're the three main issues that I know of. If you need anything just ask."

"Thanks Pikachu" Delia said standing up and washing her cup. She then left to go to bed leaving Pikachu to go over what they just talked about. Deciding he'd visit his home another day he went to bed.

The next few days were a flurry of activity as Ash and his mother as they made a trip to Viridian to get new clothes. They also bought a new bed while they were there as his old one was too small for him. Getting new clothes was a life-changing experience for Ash as he had never been clothes shopping before. His mum made him buy everything from underwear to beach clothes. It was a good job Delia could drive as they walked out of the store thousands of Pokédollars poorer but with six huge bags full of clothes. Ash swore he would never do that again. Delia just laughed and said they were an early birthday present.

The next day Ash walked downstairs to start his training and found his mum there at the kitchen counter with a card for him. "Happy Birthday Ash" she said sweeping him into a hug. Opening the card, he read the greeting out loud.

"Ash, Happy Birthday. Your mother and I wondered what to get for your birthday. In the end we chose this. We hope you have a great day. Sam Oak"

Tilting the card, a key fell out. "A Key?"

"Yes, and we'll go visit the place where the key belongs to later on." Delia said smiling "I've arranged to meet Sam there around 11. So, Happy Birthday Ash."

Training that morning was difficult for Ash as he was very curious about what the Key belonged to. He irritated his Pokémon that much that they gave up on training and retreated voluntarily into their Pokéballs just to stop him talking.

At 10:30 Delia and a curious Ash hopped into her car and drove down the lane towards Route 1 when they reached the crossroads. Delia followed the road for a few minutes before turning off onto a dirt road. Ash was very puzzled as he knew the road they were on wasn't there when he began his journey. After a few minutes driving they came to a big black gate seated in between two massive trees. Getting out Ash followed his mum curiously. She retrieved her own key from her bag and opened the padlock before walking through the little path. Less than twenty seconds later though Ash stopped and gasped. He suddenly remembered where he was. In front of him was a huge expanse where quite clearly the foundations of a house was being built. Slowly Ash walked up to the house and knelt down and touched the timber that had been placed on a corner.

"Happy Birthday Ash" Delia said quietly from behind him.

"Is this my home?" he whispered back as he stood up.

"Yes, yes, it is" Delia said crying openly "we managed to push through the paperwork and started on our design about a month ago. Now there are a few caveats added onto the paperwork that we had no choice in following, but I don't think you'd be bothered about being responsible for maintaining the surrounding area and encouraging the natural wildlife to remain wild. So, we started building two weeks ago. They've done remarkable work laying the foundations and completing the road in such a short amount of time. But hopefully the shell will be finished by the time you start the League Tournament."

Before Ash could say anything a huge Charizard landed not far away from them, and Sam got off its back. Walking over to them he greeted them and wished Ash happy birthday again.

"What do you think Ash?" Sam asked.

"I love it, thank you both." Ash said happily observing his property.

"Now, I have to tell you this" Sam said "I don't know how much Delia has been able to tell you so hopefully you'll forgive me if I repeat what she may have said. Once this property has been built it will become an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and will have to be maintained by you in whatever way you can. You will also have a conservationist building built not far from the property for endangered species and it will be your job to ensure their safety, again through whatever means necessary. This IS your property Ash, make no mistake about it but the government guidelines have been very strict about why they allowed this area to be sold off. It's only because you were endorsed by me, the president of Silph and the AONB board because of your work in setting up the Diglett Valley project that they agreed to sign off on this. It's going to be a lot of work to begin with Ash and were it anyone else I would have rejected the proposal until you were at least 16."

"Thank you" Ash said "it means a lot to me. I take it this cleaned out my savings" he finished laughing.

"Not quite" Delia said laughing back "but you may need to write more books."

"I'll be getting some prize money from winning the league in a few months so I should be fine" Ash said nervously scratching his head. "Plus, my book with Brock should be out now and when I become more known during the tournament, I should recoup whatever I lost with this. We're not broke, are we?"

"No" Delia said "you're not. We got a fantastic deal for this. You couldn't buy it outright, and the AONB board still own a portion of the land, hence them building their conservationist building over there but all told it came to just under 5.5 million Pokédollars but that's for everything being built and the surrounding land. The conservationist aspect of your proposal helped immensely Ash."

"We need to preserve many species of Pokémon mum" Ash said nodding "and we should do everything we can to aid in their endangerment recovery. Thank you both."

That night Ash could barely sleep. Deciding to get himself some water he made his way downstairs to find his mum sitting facing the kitchen window. Gently placing his hand on her shoulder so as not to startle her he sat opposite her.

"Today made me realise how quickly you're growing up Ash" se said "and how quickly the time will come when you no longer need me as much. You bought your first house not even ten months into your journey. You're on first name terms with so many important figures in both the Pokémon and financial world. You're growing into such a fantastic human being Ash. It just hit me today that by the end of the year you'll be moving out."

"No, I won't" Ash said interrupting her "mum, I'm twelve, not twenty. I have no idea how to run a household. I have no idea how I'm going to be able to do what is required of me to maintain the house and its surrounding lands. I'll be the first to admit I thought my house idea would just be a dream. Now it's a reality and I'm shitting myself."

"Language young man" Delia said reprovingly.

"Mum, you know what I mean. Leaving home on a journey at eleven doesn't mean you're now an adult. In fact, I feel far from it at times." Ash said sighing "you'll always be my mum. And I'll always need your guidance. I have a lot to plan for in the next few months it seems."

"I do wish your father was here to see this Ash" Delia said wiping away tears.

"Me too mum" Ash said walking around the counter and giving her a hug.

The next few days flew by as Ash spent most of his time flying on Charizard to his new home and showing his family where they'd be living. Ivysaur was overjoyed about the project and had big plans for the surrounding area. It seemed he was on board at least. Wartortle was disgruntled that there was no water, but Ash quickly told him he planned on building a huge lake to encourage other water Pokémon to come and live there. There was a river close by on Route 1 that Ash planned on feeding his pond from, and as he already owned part of the land that the river ran through, he planned on redirecting some of the water his way into what would be a huge lake.

"The land I now own is huge" Ash said "and part of what I need to do is establish various places on my land where I'm showing the desire to keep it wild. The river running through into my lake and then flowing back out to re-join the river is already a part of those plans." Wartortle was much happier after hearing that.

Machoke was happy that the house would have a gym, and that there were various trees he could train on daily. Pikachu was just happy that the land sat on where he had grown up. Charizard was the hardest one to try and gauge opinion wise as no one knew what he was thinking. He spent most of his time flying over the area and scouting places out.

He had visited Sam too to see how he was getting on. Unfortunately, he was still suffering from a really bad cough, a 'souvenir' Sam said from when he was really ill a few months ago. So, Ash mainly spent his time going over various plans and ideas they had come up with over the last few months.

"I had an email off a lad called Todd?" Sam said, "he said you know him."

"Know him is a very loose term" Ash said looking up from the proposal they had to put forward for the Diglett Valley project "I met him for exactly half an hour about a week and half ago. He's a photographer apparently for Pokémon Pal and he asked me if I knew of any places worth visiting. So, I showed him the pictures I have taken on my travels of the various places. I told him we are part of a group that will be discussing preserving certain areas of Kanto during the Autumn meeting. Why do you ask?"

"Oh, well he emailed me to ask if what the process was for becoming a member of the OANB panel or helping out with the Diglett Valley proposal in October." Sam said, "I thought I'd ask you considering he says you know him."

"Ah, well I don't. He seems ok though" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I'll just send him some information on how to become qualified for the panels and leave him to it. I know you're on the board but given his work for Pokemon Pal I don't know why he doesn't just ask them and work towards it through them."

"Thanks Ash" Sam said sighing as he leant back in his chair and closed his eyes.

"Have you thought about getting a permanent apprentice?" Ash asked "you need help Sam. And don't look at me like that. I'm aware of how much stress I have placed on you too in the last few months so, if need be, I'll pay their salary, but you really need help."

"I've said this" a voice said from behind him. Turning around he saw it was Blue "you're not a young man anymore dad. You're nearly sixty. It's about time you started to wind down and enjoy your life."

"I do enjoy my life thank you very much" Sam said frowning.

"You know what I mean dad" Blue said taking a seat beside Ash "we all know how much you enjoy your job. But should anything happen to you, touch wood it doesn't, Kanto will be up shit creek without a paddle. You need an apprentice dad."

"I'm aware" Sam said sighing "it's just difficult to admit certain things in life."

"Like getting old" Ash supplied unhelpfully causing Blue to laugh and Sam to glare at him.

"Yes, exactly like that" Sam said "I'll have a word with some fellow professors and see if they have anyone they'd recommend. Why are you here Blue?"

"What, can't a guy come and visit his old man?" Blue asked nonchalantly.

"Less of the old, and no, you always have a motive" Sam said.

"I'm worried about Gary" Blue said sighing.

"This is my cue to leave" Ash said standing up.

"No, please stay" Blue said, "I'll be interested in your take on my issue."

"I already know what the issue is" Ash said "and so do you if you're coming to ask Sam. What you're looking for is someone to blame that isn't you. No, this is best between you two to sort out as you really won't like my answers. I'll speak to you in a few days' professor. Try and take it easy, ok?"

"I will do Ash" Sam said looking at him "thank you for your help. I'll pass these forms along so we can set an agenda for October and have everything ready."

Making his way-out Ash stopped by the paddock to observe the Pokémon there. At times he envied Sams job, but while he was out on his journey, he knew it wouldn't be the job for him. There was far too much human interaction required in the job for him to be comfortable.

"He's far too observant for a twelve-year-old" Blue said looking at the door Ash had just left through.

"Yes, he is. And while he's stunted emotionally it helps him put other things into perspective very quickly." Sam replied, "now what's this about Gary?"

"I'm concerned that he isn't taking things seriously enough" Blue said, "he's not spoken to Laura in over a month either and Daisy told me he was very rude to her when he passed on through here to head to Cinnabar."

"What do you want me to say Blue?" Sam said "you've ignored my advice for years where he's concerned. And I know you've ignored Laura's. Why don't you go and talk to her about Gary?"

"Because of the accusations and arguments that will happen" Blue said whining.

"Which would be fully deserved" Sam interrupted "you've spoiled Gary. And you've ignored his mother's advice when raising him. It's no surprise that Daisy has turned out the way she has because you had very little to do with raising her. Now compare that with Gary. You're bloody lucky that Daisy is the sweetheart she is, and that Laura is the incredibly tolerant woman she is. I would have thought your best friend dying would have made you realise how fragile life is. Evidently not. No, you need to grow up Blue, talk to Laura, apologise and then figure out a way to help Gary. Only when you have done that will I offer anymore advice where he is concerned. He's twelve so you have time but leave it too long and you'll always regret it. Now, go and see your wife."

Standing up Sam walked to the door and opened it, a clear indication that the conversation was over. Sighing heavily Blue bade his father goodbye and trudged on down the path to his home. He was dreading this conversation, but his father was right.

The day quickly arrived where Ash was setting off to leave home on the continuation of his journey. Ash had dreaded this day for several reasons. The main one being the upcoming conversation with Charizard. He knew he had to have it, and his mum had asked him several times over the last few days if he'd talked to him. She was getting less impressed with his procrastination each day. For the third day running Ash said no he hadn't talked to him, so Delia took matters into her own hands. Grabbing his Pokéball belt off his nightstand she walked out into the garden and let everyone out. Ash leapt of his bed and followed her wondering what she was doing and nearly had a panic attack when he figured out what was going on.

"Guys" Delia said as they looked confused at being released "can everyone but Charizard go inside please." Still looking confused they did so casting wary glances behind them "Charizard, my son is being a coward but as he leaves tomorrow you two need to have a much-needed conversation. So" she said turning to Ash "do what you should have done days ago and talk to him." With that she walked back into the house and sat down on the kitchen counter stool. Ash's Pokémon looked at her with a renewed feeling of pride.

"Good" Wartortle said "we were all getting sick of him moping and doing nothing about it."

Delia just nodded and continued reading her magazine and having a cup of tea. Several hours later she called Ash in for his tea. Sitting down she waited for Ash to start.

"He's agreed to stay. He was waiting for me to ask though." Ash said.

"His pride defines him Ash" Delia said wryly "and so does yours."

"I know" Ash said "it's difficult at times to put into words what I want to say. That and I feared he'd leave."

"That's what was stopping you" Delia said nodding "it's understandable but putting it off only made you more temperamental, and I was done with your moping around."

Laughing Ash just nodded. That night he went to bed much happier than he'd been in such a long time. The next day he woke up and was sad again, he'd be leaving his mum today.

"I have other things to focus on now though Ash" Delia said "I have my restaurant to run, and also staff to find to run your house when it's completed. I also need to furnish the bloody place too so I'm not going to be bored."

"Thanks mum" Ash said hugging her tightly "I love you lots and lots like Jelly Tots."

"Keep in touch Ash" Delia said to him smiling as he hugged her.

"I will. When I get back, I'll hopefully have more information about dad from Cinnabar." Ash said.

"Be careful" Delia warned "we're very close to finding out what happened. And he was 'killed' because of whatever happened on Cinnabar."

"I will" Ash repeated as he hitched his backpack on his shoulders and set off down the path towards the harbour. They had decided to carry on their journey on foot rather than flying. Once he received his seventh badge though they were going to fly back. It was several hours journey to the harbour where the shuttle boat to Cinnabar was moored. Buying a ticket Ash boarded the boat and made his way to the front deck. It had been a while since he was on a boat and was a little nervous considering the last time he was on one he was recovering from the Porta Vista incident. The journey was only a day's journey, so he made his way to his cabin and placed his bag down before venturing to the canteen. As he was sitting down to eat, he was joined at his table by two people he had almost forgotten about.

"Well, well, well" Ash said "look what the cat dragged in."

"We could say the same for you" Jessie said smirking.

"Where are you guys off to?" Ash asked.

"We have a meeting in Cinnabar with a contact about an old acquaintance of the boss" James said. "You?"

"This acquaintance wouldn't happen to be a bald man in his early sixties, would it?" Ash asked smirking.

"Yeah, it would" Jessie said shocked "how did you know that?"

"He has information that I'm after too. And I suspect it's about the same thing" Ash said leaning forward "I'm assuming by you talking to me that you've agreed to our deal?" gaining nods he continued "the man you're after has information about the disappearance of my father. And if I have to break his knees to get it, I will do. So, my advice to you guys is, you better find him before I do. Because I will find him. Another piece of advice, don't get in my way because I will run through you two to get at him."

"Well," James said leaning back "we don't have any clues where we'd start to be honest. Our contact on Cinnabar has the information we need but we're only scheduled to meet him in three days' time."

"Which means I have two days to find him" Ash said nodding.

"We're not there to eliminate him" Jessie said, "we don't have the sadism that Domino or Petrel does."

"Don't count on that" Ash warned "I've encountered enough of you guys to know your boss always has a back-up plan. And a man with information about his past, including his identity is exactly the person he usually gets rid of."

"How do you know this?" James asked to which Ash just smiled. "Alright, keep your secrets."

"I will" Ash said standing up and draining his drink "I'll see you guys around, no doubt. Oh, I have some information for you regarding the elusive third member of your party. I'll be staying at the Pokémon Centre in Cinnabar. Ask for me there tomorrow night."

Heading back to his cabin Ash emailed his mum with the information he had just acquired. Receiving a reply quite quickly Ash read it and nodded. He didn't really need the warning to be careful, but he wouldn't argue with his mum over being concerned about him. He went to bed a little earlier than usual. The next few days were going to be very enlightening.

Chapter 28: Chapter 28

Chapter Text

The diary entries were pulled directly from the games. I'm also going off the timeline from when Pokémon first came out so the experiments on Mewtwo were ten years before Mewtwo Strikes back, that would put the timeline at 1987/1988. Red disappeared when Ash had just turned 5 months old in 1988.

I'm aware that the movie came out in 1998, I'm simply pushing events of Ash's travels back a year. If any of my timelines don't add up can someone let me know so I can amend it. I never planned on writing all of what I have done when I first started the story, but I can't seem to stop writing :D

I own nothing.

Chapter 28- Cinnabar

Cinnabar had long been in Ash's thoughts. Ever since the incident in Lavender Town Cinnabar had been the main destination where he thought the puzzle of his fathers' disappearance would show what the majority of the picture would be. He had a lot to do on Cinnabar, the main thing was receiving his badge. He doubted he would get one from here if he had the confrontation with Blaine first. Perhaps he should have the battle first. Shaking his head clear of his thoughts he disembarked from the boat and headed down the path towards the centre of the island. It was unbelievably hot on the island and Ash was thankful his mum had forced him to buy hot weather clothes. Looking around he was amazed at what he was seeing. It was a bloody tourist trap! People everywhere selling tat and crap. Shaking his head, he made his way through the crowd and headed to the Pokémon Centre. Walking inside he was further amazed to find it was very crowded. Pushing his way through to Joy he saw how frazzled she looked.

Before he could say anything, she said "I'm so sorry, we have no rooms available."

"I'm a junior professor Miss Joy" Ash said handing over his Pokédex "Are there no professors room available?"

"Oh" she said, "yeah there's one available."

"Thank you" Ash replied, "why are you on your own here?"

"My aunt has the week off and the League forgot to send someone to help out." Joy said. She nearly looked in tears.

"I'll speak to Professor Oak to have a word with his son. It's unacceptable that you've been left alone in this place" Ash said as he walked over to the phone. Ringing Sam he explained what happened and he told Ash he would speak with Charles. Walking back over to Joy he informed her what Sam said and she just hugged him in thanks. Walking up to his room he closed the door and just basked in the blissful silence. Setting down his backpack he rummaged through it and cursed out loud. He had forgotten the third reason of coming to Cinnabar. He rang his mum to let her know and she just laughed, called him an idiot and told him to send Charizard to pick it up. Smacking his head, he hung up, walked back out of the room, said hello to Joy and he walked down to the beach where he called out Charizard.

"I'm sorry to ask this buddy but I've been an idiot" Ash said.

Charizard just snorted as if to say what else is new. "Can you go back to our home please and pick up my Old Amber. I promise you I wont challenge the gym leader without you. I plan to scout around the island for the rest of the afternoon, but I won't go anywhere without you here. Ask mum to let me know when you're on your way back and I'll meet you back here" Butting heads Charizard took off and headed back north towards his home.

"Was that your Charizard?" a voice asked from behind Ash. Turning around he saw it was quite a tall man with wavy blonde hair, a red top and a cool looking moustache. Immediately his aura senses screamed 'deception'.

"Given you've just watched me release him, talk to him and wish him a safe journey that question seems a bit redundant, no?" Ash said arching his eyebrow.

"Now, now. There's no need to be rude young man" the bloke said, "it was just a question."

"And mine was just an answer" Ash replied "now, what can I do for you?"

"I was simply wondering about your Charizard. It looked to be a magnificent specimen." He said, "he looked strong."

"He is" Ash said, "as are all of my Pokémon."

"Ah" the man said, "I take it you're here for a gym match then?"

"Among other things yeah" Ash said "I have other business on the island too though. The first one is to find the resurrection lab, the second is to find some information about the eruption ten years ago and the last one will be to challenge Blaine." There! Ash's aura picked up a twinge at the last two points he made.

"I can help you with two of those. The lab is just north of the Pokémon Centre, next to an inn called The Big Riddle Inn. There's not too much to say about the eruption" the man said "an explosion at the labs that were here back then caused significant seismic activity and the volcano erupted. I have no idea what they were doing but it was bad enough to have to evacuate the island for three years to make sure the lava had hardened. Since then though it's become a tourist trap because of the natural hot springs that popped up due to the heat from the lava. As for Blaine he hasn't had a gym battle in ten years, I don't even know if he's still on the island."

"Well, thank you for the first two bits of information" Ash said "as for the third I know you're lying, why though is a mystery. I know he's here because I was told he was here."

"Oh?" the man asked, "by whom?"

"Agatha of the Elite Four" Ash felt a spike of annoyance flair up from the man. It all but confirmed to Ash who the man really was but as he didn't need the man yet he decided to leave him alone.

"Should you see Blaine let him know that there's a challenger to get his badge. I'll be on the island at least three or four days."

The rest of the afternoon Ash spent exploring the forested parts of the island. He had printed off an old map of the island and was tracking where the labs used to be. He knew they'd be under lava by now or were supposed to be according to the official reports, but Ash was convinced it was still accessible.

Stopping at a certain point Ash said "well Pi, were supposedly right above where the explosion occurred. Only this part is suspiciously devoid of lava and there's no lab here. Do you think it was underground?"

"The evidence would say so. But why would the reports say everything was covered in lava when its clearly not?" Pikachu replied.

"I believe they used a general term for the report and led everyone to believe the whole island had been swallowed up" Ash said musing out loud "The issue I have here though is that if the lab was underground, then there must be an entrance for evacuation somewhere."

"Didn't you say Blaine was one of the lead scientists?" Pikachu asked, "wouldn't that mean that it could have been connected to his gym?"

"The theory is sound Pi" Ash said after thinking it over "and it would make sense for him to have direct access to the lab. We could always ask him, but I really don't want to announce myself before the battle. He'll know instantly who I am and would likely clam up."

"So, we explore until Charizard returns, we battle Blaine and then we hunt for his lab?" Pikachu asked.

"Yeah" Ash replied "that sounds like a good plan. We better start heading back now though, we're losing light and it's getting very gloomy in these woods, and I have no plans to sleep outside when there's a nice comfy bed available. We'll continue the hunt tomorrow. I need to inform Lance I'm on the island anyway."

The trek back to the Pokémon Centre only took two hours but when they got there Ash was relieved to see that the crowds had disappeared. Walking in he noticed the time. It would be too late to ring Lance right now, so he just sent him a message. Surprisingly Ash received a message twenty minutes later saying he'd be there in two days. Ash was fine with that. He had lots to do on the island anyway.

As he was sitting down to have his tea his name was called over the tannoy system. Sighing he put his fork down and walked out of the canteen to the front desk. Who the hell would be needing him at 10:30 at night? Reaching the front desk, he immediately knew why. "I genuinely forgot about you two. Joy, thanks for letting me know about them. I'll leave the canteen door key on the front desk when we're done. Thank you again for letting me use the facilities to cook."

"No problem, Ash" Joy said cheerfully.

"I'll see you in the canteen. Let me go and get the information you're after from my room." Ash said. Scanning his card on the panel Ash entered his room, retrieved the information from his backpack and walked back to the canteen. Sitting down he slid over the folder to Jessie and James and carried on eating while they read the report Sam had given him.

"Are you certain about this?" Jessie asked.

"Yup" Ash said "when I had you guys arrested, the day after my uncle came and visited me. When I told him that I'd stopped a Team Rocket raid he was visibly angry and left to 'deal with you'. Now I have no idea if he spoke to you or not, the next time I saw you guys was in Dark City eight months later. But when you told me that he'd gone missing I knew there was only one person who would have the clout to separate you all as apart from Professor Oak and my mum he was the only other person who I told."

"So, Giovanni, the strongest gym leader in Kanto has Meowth?" James asked.

"Yup. He claimed that he would rehabilitate the Meowth" Ash said "whatever he did since then though…" he finished trailing off.

"Thank you, Ash" James said looking at Jessie "we'll have to come up with some sort of plan to retrieve him."

"I've been thinking about that" Ash said wiping his mouth having finished eating and heading over to the sink "I have a gym battle for my last badge with him soon. Once I'm done here, I plan on visiting Seafoam Islands then going to Viridian City. He's a Ground type gym leader so I seriously doubt he'll be using Meowth in battle. That means he likely keeps him around the gym somewhere as he'd be too much of a flight risk in Gio's home. My battle with him would likely give you an hour or two tops to infiltrate his gym and rescue Meowth. After that though I have no guarantees. I also have no idea you're planning on raiding my uncle's gym, understood?"

"Understood" Jessie said nodding "come on James, we still need to prepare to meet our contact tomorrow night."

"Better get moving guys, I have already found the man you're after" Ash said smiling at them before he left them sat down looking at each other in shock.

The next morning Ash received a call from his mum at 07:00 that Charizard was on his way back. It only took him four hours to get to Pallet Town, so Ash decided to head down to the beach around 11:00 to find him. Walking onto the beach he noticed that the beach was pretty crowded. Strolling along the beach he mused to Pikachu how he didn't like hot places, Pikachu was the same, so they stopped at a vendor selling hats and put them on. Ash noticed a bit of commotion not far from him, so he went to investigate and it was only when he heard a roar that he sprinted to the scene.

"Hey" Ash shouted, "get away from my Charizard."

As the crowd parted Ash saw his Charizard looking very angry at a group of people who had quite clearly been trying to capture him. "Do you really think a wild Charizard would suddenly land on the beach?" Ash asked the stunned crowd "all of you, clear off before I let him take his annoyance out on you." Pretty quickly the crowd dispersed leaving Ash to walk forwards. Butting their heads Charizard handed over the package he was carrying and clicked on his Pokéball returning himself. Shaking his head Ash walked back to the Pokémon centre and up to his room. Opening it he took out the Old Amber and looked at it. It had been a while since he had closely observed it. Holding it up to the light he saw quite clearly a fossil preserved inside. Who would have thought that armed with only a fossil about two inches long you could reanimate it into a fully-fledged Pokémon?

Walking back down Ash decided to carry on with his exploration of the island. Heading back to where he left off yesterday Ash trekked for hours to the other side of the volcano. It was tough going as there wasn't really anywhere he could get a good foothold but he had to do this on foot. If anyone saw him flying Charizard it would attract a lot of attention, something he was eager to avoid. After a few hours Ash struck gold. About 200m in front of him a small trail could be seen leading up to a small door. The door however had no handle and no lock.

"It's a fire door Pi" Ash said "opens only from the inside. Damn"

"Could we not prize it open?" Pikachu asked.

"No, these things are notorious for being stubborn." Ash said.

"What about the hinges" Pikachu said pointing them out.

"That could possibly work" Ash said looking at them "try using Iron Tail on them. See if they can break easily." After Pikachu tried and failed with them Ash had an idea. Calling out Wartortle and Charizard he explained his plan. "we're trying to warp the hinges so that we can open the door from the outside. Now Pikachu's Iron Tail didn't so much as move them, and fire wouldn't work as they're designed to cope with intense heat. I mean it clearly survived a volcano blast so Charizards fire wouldn't do much. However, if we can rapidly heat up and then cool the hinges it could warp them. So can you guys do your thing please?"

Nodding Wartortle and Charizard stepped forward and took deep breaths before firing alternately at the hinges. After twenty minutes they finally saw some form of success. They hadn't warped completely but the door had definitely moved from where it was originally.

"Try Iron Tail again Pi" Ash said. Pikachu did as he was asked, and a crack could be heard as a small fracture appeared on one of the hinges. "Yes!" Ash shouted before quieting down quickly when he realised how loud he had been. "Let's keep going guys." The next few hours passed by very slowly as they did more and more damage to the door. Eventually though their hard work paid off and the three hinges lay in pieces on the floor. Calling out Machoke, he and Charizard helped move the door to lean against the outside rock wall. Recalling them Ash put a bandanna on over his face to protect him from whatever was in the air inside the tunnel. For it was a tunnel that led steadily downwards. After a few minutes Ash came to another door only this one had a handle.

Grabbing it he immediately pulled his hand back. He had forgotten he was inside an active volcano and things were bound to be hot. It hadn't scalded him, for which he was thankful, but he did have an angry red mark where he had grabbed a hold of the handle. Putting his gloves on he opened the door, walked in and found he was on a balcony looking over what looked like a bomb sight.

Looking around Ash observed the room he was now in. The room was huge; he had clearly stumbled on the lab he was after. At the far end of the room was another door, presumably heading into the heart of the volcano. All around the lab was devastation, broken computers, cabinets and glass strewn all over the floor. Remnants of CCTV lay in two of the corners. But what dominated the room was a giant machine, that was the size of one of the walls and was smashed to bits.

Making his way down the steel staircase Ash cursed at how loud the clanging was. Eventually he made it onto the ground and walked across the floor. It was strewn with debris and glass. There were also several decayed books on the floor. Picking a few up Ash put them back down when they started disintegrating in his hands. Clearly whatever happened here had been catastrophic. Walking over to computers that were on a desk he tried to power them on but wasn't successful. As he walked around the room his Aura pinged every now and then. It wasn't huge, but something down here was demanding to be heard. Walking over to the door Ash observed what looked like disused CCTV cameras above the door. Curiously though Ash's eyes were drawn to the ground where footmarks were clearly visible indented on the dust that had gathered over the years.

"Someone has been in here recently Pi" Ash murmured.

As he walked up to what looked like a huge incubator, he touched the broken glass, and something flashed across his mind. Letting go very quickly Ash pondered on what he saw. Something with immense power had been housed here and it hadn't been a fun existence. As he walked over to another computer his aura sight picked up on something just underneath a smashed metal cabinet. Turning it over as gently as he could he immediately stood up and looked around. On the ground, quite clearly out of place was a red book. Carefully picking it up Ash saw that it was a diary of some sort, he opened it and saw on the front page a picture of two men, cheerfully waving at whoever was taking the picture.

"Blaine and Fuji" Ash said recognizing them both from pictures he had seen when trying to find out information about them. Opening up the first few pages he skimmed through some of the writing. It was when he read some of the entries that he realised he had struck gold with this. This was exactly the evidence he needed to incriminate Blaine and Fuji.

Diary: July 5 1987

Guyana, South America
A new Pokémon was discovered deep in the jungle.

We had no idea Pokémon like this even existed anymore. We're convinced that it's an Ancient, but we have no proof. Hopefully the fossil we recovered will give us more clues.

Diary: July 10 1987
We christened the newly discovered Pokémon, Mew.

We were apparently wrong. After scoring various texts we discovered a picture, purely made of Hieroglyphs that depict a Pokémon that was so revered they called it Legendary.

Diary: Feb. 6 1988
Mew gave birth.
We named the newborn Mewtwo

We were commissioned by a strange man to recreate the Pokémon we had discovered after he had read my thesis on cloning Pokémon to preserve them. He paid us very handsomely to do so. We have failed so many times to find a viable strand of DNA from the fossil that we are about to give up hope as they were all under powered and couldn't survive the cloning process. Finally, on the last shot we gave it we had success. The Pokémon born from this strand had to be spliced with the DNA of several psychic type Pokémons DNA, which sadly cost them their life. However, we have done something no one else has ever done before. We created life from a fossil.

Diary: Sept. 1 1988
Mewtwo is far too powerful.
We have failed to curb its vicious tendencies...we once dreamed of creating the world's strongest Pokémon. And we succeeded!

Reading on Ash was surprised when the handwriting changed, and the diary carried on.

Diary: October 1 1988

Its rage knew no bounds. When it discovered that it was created to be nothing more than an experiment it grew angry and attacked. It apparently has all the thoughts and feelings of a natural born Pokémon, which is not what we had designed however it has the rage and power to level cities. And nothing we could say or do could halt its destruction of the laboratory.

After the explosion I was ordered to come up with a covering story for what happened. Luckily, we live on a volcanic island and the lab was hidden deep into the core of it. The idiots at the League however were not fooled after seeing a few of the surviving incubators and drained Pokémon and sent their champion to oversee the recovery of evidence. We were fortunate that the explosion damaged the computers and electricity beyond repair. I fear my days of experimentation is over.

Diary: October 4 1988

Fuji is a fool! The bastard is trying to throw me under the bus when the entire lab was built to his specifications! Every Pokémon brought in; he oversaw their experiments. And he is saying it was me that was the mastermind behind it all! I should present this as evidence, but it would also implicate me. All I can do is present the evidence I can present. Hopefully the world will see what I was trying to achieve. I have no illusions about how the trial will go, we're both guilty. And we both will pay for our sins. Fujis time spent in jail will all depend on the Champions testimony.

Diary: October 8 1998

The Champion has disappeared! Dead according to the official reports however I doubt the veracity of that statement. It was far too convenient of an excuse. I wonder what happened to him. Official reports say he chased the Rocket Boss down and confronted him in his headquarters where it exploded killing them both. Hmmm…another explosion. Two days before he was due to give evidence against Team Rocket. It's a very convenient excuse, isn't it?

Diary: October 11 1988

Fuji was offered a deal due to lack of evidence. He has been relocated to Lavender Town. I bet that fool Agatha is pleased. I was given a slap on the wrist as there was no clear evidence that I did anything other than what I was ordered to do. As I told the courtroom I am a gym leader who wanted to preserve endangered Pokémon and had the means to try. Luckily the jury bought it, and I kept my job. I am very fortunate but if I ever see Fuji again, I will kill the bastard.

Diary: November 12 1988

They have set me up in Seafoam Islands! In the middle of fucking November! The absolute bastards! That witch Agatha is behind this I'm certain. The smirk on her face when she delivered the news said it all. "it's just until the island recovers". No, I refuse to be beaten by them, and especially her...

Diary: June 18 1993

Has it really been five years since I last wrote in this? I had forgotten this thing existed. Not a lot has happened in that time. Cinnabar has long since recovered from the explosion and volcanic eruption. The lava conveniently covered all but one entrance to the lab. No one can access the lab from the outside due to the blast door I installed and the tunnel from my gym is only accessible by myself.

Diary: June 12 1998

Something is happening. Fuji has gone missing. The contacts I have in Lavender Town have all told me that he seemingly disappeared overnight. And the Pokémon Tower has been conveniently closed up.

Diary: August 3 1998

I heard rumours of an attack on Viridian Pokémon Centre. Apparently, a child foiled an attack from a Team Rocket Cell. This is disturbing. Maybe I should make contact again, just in case.

Diary: September 11 1998

My contacts in Team Rocket tell me a cell has gone missing inside Mt Moon. How could people disappear like that? And what in the world is project M2?

Diary: November 1 1998

The child from the Viridian incident was on the news again. He apparently rescued a Zapdos from the Power Plant that was on a rampage. He apparently took down an entire team of Rockets on his own. Of course, he claims they told him they were simply poachers that were killed by Zapdos but how did some of them make it back down the corridors if Zapdos killed all of them? Who is this child?

Diary: November 19th 1998

The child has struck again. Lavender Town suddenly being set free from mind control using Pokémon Tower as a beacon? I know a Fuji experiment when I see one. I wonder where that bastard is hiding. The child though…

Project M2 just became a whole lot clearer. I have heard they have captured a Mew…history it seems is doomed to repeat itself.

Diary: December 18 1998

The child took down an Ancient single handedly…who the hell is he?

Diary: March 1 1999

Finally, my contacts have come back with information. The child is apparently Red's child. That explains a lot. And he's been finding answers no eleven-year-old should be able to find. That's concerning. I have been warned off Professor Oak that he knows I was around when his father disappeared. Hopefully when I see him, I can convince him of my innocence in the matter. After all I have no idea how Red died, other than my hunch Fuji and the league are in cahoots that is.

Diary: May 28 1999

The child will not believe me. I engaged him on the beach when he was talking to his Charizard. He's far too guarded to believe anything I will say. Hopefully he believed me with the minimal information I have given him. I received word from a contact that Team Rocket is trying to find me to silence me. I'll place this diary down in the lab. Hopefully should anyone find it they'll realise that while I am not proud of what I did, I am proud of the fact that we did something incredible.

I wonder what became of Mewtwo…

Closing the diary Ash pondered on what he had read. Should he leave it down here now he knew what happened? No, he decided placing inside his bag. With the door to the outside blown off anyone could come in here and should it be Team Rocket, they'd happily destroy it. Giving the door to the gym one last glare Ash made his way back up the stairs, careful to tread in his own dusty footprints, closed the door behind him and made his way out of the tunnel. Stopping to look at the ruined door he called out Machoke and asked him to help him put the door back in place. Hopefully from a distance it would fool anyone who believed it was still a secure door. Ash decided to just fly Charizard out of the place. It was difficult enough climbing down to get here, he really couldn't be arsed climbing back up. Flying around the volcano Ash was explaining to Charizard what they had discovered when he saw something that made him double take.

"Charizard, can you land over there please?" he said pointing out a ridge that jutted out from the volcano. "Look at this guys, this is very strange". The ridge he was standing on was connected to a huge fissure on the side of the volcano that stretched down at least twenty feet. "I think this was the done by an attack. But it's strange, didn't the reports say that the explosion occurred from within the volcano due to Mewtwo's wrath on the other side? I'm not an expert on volcanic eruptions but this fissure wasn't naturally made, especially as the lava flow ran down from here. Guys have a look around, will you? But be careful, that's still a volcano down there!"

"Ash" Charizard growled after a few minutes "something isn't right here; these look like attacks from a fire type" Ash leaned as carefully as he could over the side to see what Charizard was looking at. Sure enough where the blast originated from were marks along the wall.

"Are you sure it wasn't the lava that did this?" Ash asked as he righted himself which earned himself a glare from Charizard. Holding his hands up he continued "I'm just asking that's all."

"I'm a fire type" Charizard said simply "I play with fire every day. I know the difference between the marks left from lava compared to a fire type attack. Lava doesn't leave scorch marks like those in the area surrounding it. No whatever did this was a fire type Pokémon, the burn marks are proof of that."

"How could no one spot that?" Pikachu asked perplexed "was it not in the official report?"

"No" Ash said "don't forget this island was uninhabited for three years due to the explosion. And by the time it had settled everyone had long forgotten about the lab being responsible for it going off. Plus, the only people who could spot this are people with flying types or those with strong enough fire types. This could be what my father had found you know. At this point it is pure speculation. But I think we can conclude that the lab exploding did not set off the volcano."

"So, what did?" Charizard asked.

"Mewtwo wasn't responsible for the volcano erupting. Blaine was" he said shocking them all.

Flying back to the Pokémon centre Ash was full of thoughts. As soon as he walked into his room, he scanned the diary entries to his computer along with his thoughts at various points. Nodding to himself he secured his laptop into his bag when he found something odd. Something was missing. And for the life of him he wasn't sure what it was. Shaking his head, he decided to video call his mum. Strangely she never picked up. Looking at the clock on the wall he noticed it was after 8pm so she wouldn't be at the restaurant. Concern started to flood him, so he rang Sam. After the third ring someone picked up, but it wasn't Sam. It was his mum.

"Mum!" Ash said relieved "there you are. Are you ok?"

"Yes, I am" Delia said cheerfully "your timing is impeccable though. I was just about to message you asking you to ring me. Something happened this afternoon".

"Oh?" Ash asked confused "what've I done?"

"First let me ask you a question" Delia said, "was the Old Amber the only thing you forgot to take with you?"

Racking his brains for a minute he came up empty and said "I think so. I mean I have just been thinking somethings missing from my bag, but I can't put my finger on what it is."

"It wouldn't be this would it?" Delia asked amusement in her voice as she panned the camera over to Professor Oak taking measurements on a Pokémon on his desk. Looking closely Ash couldn't really tell what it was and said as much.

"So, the thing you were missing, it wouldn't happen to have been egg shaped, would it?" Delia asked laughing as she saw realisation dawn on his face. "This little thing almost gave me a heart attack Ash when it walked into the kitchen and started crying at me."

"Oh wow" Ash said, "how the hell could I forget the egg?"

"How indeed" Delia said "however that has brought up a more interesting point. The Pokémon that hatched from the egg is apparently a Togepi. What do you know about them?"

"Very little really" Ash said, "they're said to have their own kingdom somewhere, and I read about an island where if one comes to someone, they rule that place but apart from that nothing."

"Well, the biggest issue we have is that Togepi seems to have imprinted on me" Delia said raising her eyebrow "so thanks for that Ash."

"Ah" he said shaking his head "sorry about that mum. Does that mean it's yours now and not mine?"

"She certainly believes that I'm her mother" Delia said, "It's only because I'm within reaching distance that she's stopped crying long enough for Sam to take some recordings of her."

"So, I have a baby sister?" Ash said laughing causing Delia to giggle. "Oh dear. Well, congratulations mum, it's a girl!"

"Ash!" she said cracking up laughing. "it's not funny."

"It kind of is mum" Ash said as his laughter receded "I'm glad you're both there anyway. I have information for you both about the Cinnabar incident. I'll speak to you both about it when I head back, I'm going to challenge Blaine tomorrow after I've revived the fossil, I'm heading to Seafoam afterwards so I should be home next weekend at the latest."

"Ok, Ash" Delia said seriously "did you find out what happened to Red?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head "but I think I found out why he may have been targeted. It's purely a hypothesis though, there's very little facts about what I'll tell you. But it's a strong argument."

After a few minutes of small talk Ash hung up. Tomorrow was a big day. The next day Ash had just finished his training workout when he received a call on his Pokégear. Seeing the name Ash chuckled. "Hi Lance"

"Hi Ash, I'm around half an hour away from Cinnabar now" Lance said, "where are you?"

"I've just finished my workout so I'm at the Pokémon Centre still." Ash replied.

"Ok, wait for me there. I've arranged a private meeting with the lab on the island. It's at 12 so we have a chance to talk first" Lance said

"No worries. I'll grab a quick shower and meet you in the lobby. Be warned though, the place is always rammed with tourists." He said laughing.

"Shit" Lance said "I forgot about that. Can you meet me at the lab instead?"

"Yeah, I'll do that" Ash said, "I'll head straight there from my shower."

Lance hung up as Ash chuckled. Going to his room he showered, picked up his Old Amber and walked to the lab. He had passed by it several times since arriving on the island, so he knew where it was. Blaine had been right that it was just North of the Pokémon centre. It was a huge white building that dominated the landscape. Walking inside he checked in with the receptionist and sat down to wait for Lance. Not even a few minutes later the man in question walked in and greeted the receptionist too. Spotting Ash he walked over.

"Hi Ash" Lance said shaking his hand "hard to believe it has already been nine months since you contacted me first about this."

"Yeah" Ash said, "and so much has happened in that time too."

"It sure has" Lance said.

Five minutes later a man in a white coat came to meet them. He was tall, balding with some strange glasses on his face. "Hello. Come, come" he said excitedly shaking both their hands at the same time while crossing his arms. As he was walking away Ash exchanged a glance with Lance. This was shaping up to be very interesting. The man was talking a mile a minute about what was going to happen, where it was happening and who was part of it. Ash could barely get a word in.

"Hey" Lance shouted startling the man "that was not what was agreed. I specifically asked for a private area to resurrect an extremely dangerous Pokémon. There's a reason Aerodactyl are on the restricted list for trainers. You better have a damn good reason for breaking the confidentiality clause."

"Now, now" the man said holding his hands up "it'll be perfectly fine. No one but us three will have access to the room, the others will be on the viewing gallery behind glass."

"No" Ash said interrupting him "that ain't gonna fly mate. Not with me. No one but us three will be there. I am not risking my life just so you can play 'entertainer' so you better go and tell those people, whoever they are that they're not welcome."

"I can't do that" the man said outraged "some of them are from companies that fund us."

"Don't care" Ash replied "my Old Amber has been around for fifty million years. I'm pretty sure I can arrange to resurrect it at another lab where the specifications for resurrecting an Aerodactyl will be adhered to."

"He's right" Lance said taking out his Pokégear and calling a number. After a few seconds it was answered "Hello, can you put me through to the Head of the lab please, it's Lance Wataru, yeah I'll hold."

By this time the man was starting to seriously sweat as he realised he had messed up big time. Panicking he ran into the main room. Chuckling Lance put his Pokégear away "works every time."

"I'm not happy about this Lance" Ash said.

"I'm not happy about this either Ash" Lance replied "but we're here now. And we're both too busy to be pissed around and have to schedule another date."

"True" Ash said nodding "could you not just take the Old Amber and get it done by yourself?"

"Unfortunately, not" Lance said "there's been far too many instances in the past of Gym leaders, Elite Four members and Champions deciding for themselves that they didn't want a potential opponent to have a strong Pokémon that may challenge them for their position and used their own position to 'confiscate' said Pokémon. So, in the law we made for Aerodactyl and Pokémon like it, we had to put in the clause that the party giving the Pokémon up had to sign two contracts. One with their sponsor and the other with the Champion or their deputy. And both had to be signed in different locations so no coercion can be found."

"Ah that makes sense" Ash said nodding "I did wonder why you didn't ask for it the first time we met."

"Yup" Lance said "you hadn't signed the release papers yet at that time. I have the second copy here with me. I believe Sam has your other one for you to sign."

"I signed it before I came here" Ash said, "I've just spent a week in Pallet Town, and I sorted it out then."

"Smart thinking" Lance said. They stopped talking as the man came rushing back to them, bright red. "everyone has gone. Follow me."

Doing so they entered a huge room that had various sizes of incubators in different areas. Walking over to the huge one labelled 'birds' he took out the Old Amber and placed it onto a little platform as he was told. Immediately robotic arms picked it up and turned it around before another machine with a drill was used to create a small shallow hole leading directly to the fossil. After the drill had done its job, a syringe was used to extract whatever DNA it could from the fossil. The whole thing lasted around half an hour.

"This is where we have to ask you to go behind the glass. Our reanimations are trade secrets but you can observe from up there." Unsure but complying Ash and Lance walked into a little room on a balcony overlooking the room. They observed many scientists walking in and out of the room with various flasks and official looking equipment. Finally, they placed an object into the incubator, and everyone backed away as the incubator closed and panels came up on every side and encased it blocking it off from view. Twenty minutes later a screech was heard from inside the incubator that got louder and louder as each minute passed. Half an hour later the panels retreated back into the base of the machine and Ash and Lance gasped. Inside the incubator was a Pokémon, but it looked nothing like a normal Aerodactyl.

"How did it mega evolve without a keystone?" Lance murmured. Ash heard every word and waited for him to tell him. When that wasn't forthcoming Ash opened his mouth to ask himself when the scientist came barrelling in shouting "Success."

Immediately Lance swept from the room and headed down to the Incubator Room with Ash closely following him. Walking warily up to the incubator Ash received a look at his Pokémon. Suddenly it reared upwards and stretched its wings while screeching. It was huge. Its wingspan must have been easily twenty meters. They each had 5 razor sharp spikes protruding from the ridges of its wings, its tail also had the same kind of spikes on it and its claws were like knives. Before their very eyes though it gradually changed back to what a normal Aerodactyl looked like.

"How did it mega-evolve without Aerodactylite?" Lance asked seriously.

"Oh" the man said "that's normal. When we resurrect these Pokémon, if they have the ability to Mega-Evolve then we have to give them a small portion of their Mega Stone during the reanimation process. Otherwise, they will never gain that ability. From now on though it will only evolve when it reacts with the Key-stone and Mega-stone."

"Ah" Lance said "that makes sense. How can you be sure?"

"We've never had information to tell us otherwise and we've resurrected hundreds of fossils here" the man replied as he pressed a button on the panel. Immediately the Aerodactyl was sprayed with a gas that gradually put it to sleep. When it was completely out the scientists pressed another button and the incubator doors opened. "It should stay knocked out for at least another half an hour. So, I suggest you capture it now." Nodding Ash took out a Pokéball and touched it to the sleeping Pokémon. While it may have been sleeping it was still aware that it was being captured as the ball rocked fiercely. After a minute of shaking, it finally stopped and dinged. Letting out a breath he didn't know he was holding in Ash picked up his new Pokémon and attached it to his belt. Nodding to the scientist they both said their thanks and began to walk out. Just as they were leaving the front door to the lab they were stopped by the scientists.

"Here" he said handing Ash back the Old Amber "you forgot to take this. It's perfectly harmless, we extracted everything we could before the resurrection so it's just an ornament now. Thank you for helping us with more data on Aerodactyl. And I sincerely apologise for earlier."

"No problem" Lance said shaking his hand "but next time I tell you that I want a private room to resurrect an incredibly dangerous Pokémon I expect that to be adhered to to the letter. Understood?"

Nodding the man quickly made a retreat as Lance and Ash walked outside.

"Is there somewhere private we could go?" Lance asked.

Thinking of the Pokémon Centre he immediately nixed that idea. Suddenly another place sprang to his mind. "Yeah, but it needs a flying Pokémon to reach." Ash said as he released his Charizard.

"An impressive specimen" he commented before he released his Dragonite and quickly followed Ash to the ridge they had looked at yesterday.

"Interesting place" Lance said looking around and over the edge carefully at the seething hot volcano.

"Yeah, we thought so" Ash said, "this is the exact spot that was attacked to erupt the volcano."

"By Mewtwo?" Lance said looking at him in shock "no, the explosion happened inside the lab. Unless I've misread the reports from back then."

"No, you didn't misread them" Ash said "the reports were what was accurately described. However the official report and what actually happened are two different things."

"Explain" Lance said looking serious.

"First of all, do you have a fire type on you?" Ash asked.

"Yeah" Lance warily said as he released his own Charizard. Immediately both Charizards looked at each other with narrowed eyes. Lances was very big and was clearly battle hardened with the number of scars that littered its nose.

"Enough" Ash said startling them both "Charizard, I want you to explain to Lances Charizard your theory on what happened. Lances Charizard, I want you to listen and take a look for yourself and then tell me if you agree." After receiving a nod from Lance both Charizard nodded and flew over the side of the ridge to have a look at the fissure from the inside of the volcano. The noise from the volcano itself drowned out any conversation they had but a few minutes later Ash saw Lances Charizard nod and fly closer to the ridge where he inspected it closely. Surprisingly it used a Flamethrower on the rock just off to the side and observed the reaction. Nodding they both flew up to the ridge and nodded. Recalling them Ash looked at Lance and told him of what he believed happened.

"Our Charizard have both just said the same thing. The explosion was caused by an attack from within the mouth of the volcano. Now the only person who had access to this place and fire type Pokémon is Blaine. Here" Ash said pulling out the diary "I'm very reluctant to give this to you, but as the statute of limitations has long since passed on this and Blaine can't be tried for anything I see no issue giving you this. It's Fuji and Blaines diary from 1987/1988 onwards and it's pretty detailed about what they did. I found it in the lab that was said to be ground zero. It was placed there the day before yesterday, given the last entry was me meeting Blaine on the beach here the day I got here."

Nodding Lance warily skimmed through the diary, his eyes widening at the implications. When he got to the last paragraph he stopped and put the diary away. "I'll study it more tonight and let my fellow Elites know, I won't bother asking how you gained access to that lab. Thanks for this Ash. Now onto why we're here" he said pulling out the documents and a pen. "The handover needs to be officially recognised." Ash skimmed the document and signed it before handing both the paper and the Pokéball containing Aerodactyl in it.

"Thank you, Ash," Lance said pocketing them both "very few trainers would give up a Pokémon like this. It shows a level of maturity that is sorely lacking these days so, as a reward I will give you this" he said pulling out a Pokéball "it's already registered to you so don't worry about that. And I know you'll be exactly the right trainer for her. Look after her Ash, I'll be keeping an eye out for you at the League." Releasing his Dragonite he climbed aboard, said goodbye and then flew off at high speed.

Looking at the Pokéball he decided the best place to see who it was, was on the beach. Flying down on Charizard he pondered what had just happened. He was unsure about being gifted a Pokémon as he enjoyed knowing what he was after and this was a curveball he didn't see coming. Landing on a somewhat secluded part he released all his Pokémon and explained what happened.

"Now let's see who we've been given shall we?" he finished earning exciting nods from everyone.

Throwing the Pokéball up into the air, he released the Pokémon from the ball. Gradually a small light came out before disappearing. As one they all gasped as the Pokémon looked up at them as it stood on its hind legs. "You're my trainer huh?" it said looking at everyone. It immediately spotted the Charizard, and its eyes narrowed. "You'll do."

Chapter 29: Chapter 29

Chapter Text

Chapter 29- Fire & Ice

"A Bagon?" Wartortle said "that's unusual."

"Hey" she said glaring at him "there's nothing about me that's unusual."

"Yes, there is" Wartortle said "you're not from Kanto. We're in Kanto and your species are very rare, even in your region. So yeah, you're unusual."

"You take that back!" she said running forward and headbutting him in the stomach. Sadly, she forgot that Wartortle have really hard shells and even though her head is thick she bounced back. Chuckling Ash walked forward.

"You're feisty, I'll give you that. But a word of warning, if we're not training you do not attack my Pokémon." Ash said.

"You can't tell me what to do" she said defiantly as she tried to charge at Ash. As she leapt towards him though she was plucked from the air by an irritated Charizard who gripped her by the back and turned her to face him, glaring menacingly down at her.

"I'll try and be polite as I can" he said earning snorts from everyone else "you do not attack any of us unless you're training with us and Ash is the one person in the world that can tell us what to do. Now, if you desire to be the strongest you can be I suggest you listen to him. If you just want to waste our time then I suggest you tell us now and we'll find you somewhere else you can live. Is that clear?"

Meekly she nodded "Yes Mr Charizard" she replied.

"None of that!" he said sternly "I'm not a 'Mr' anything. None of us are. Now, tonight we will go over the ground rules for being a part of this family. They're not optional either. We are a family, and we fight dirty to protect each other, I'll give you this, it takes guts to attack a trained Pokémon like you did but it also displays idiocy. So, I'm going to place you down so you can introduce yourself."

As he did so he apologised to Ash "I apologise if I've stepped over any line here."

"You have not" Ash said patting him on his wing as he walked forward to kneel in front of a very nervous Bagon. "What Charizard said is true. We will go over what it means to be a part of our team later on and we will give you until we leave Cinnabar, that's this island, to decide whether you want to be a part of this family. I will not pretend that I'm a very nice person Bagon. I don't tolerate disrespect, nor do any of our family members but what we do is talk to each other. If there's an issue any of us have with the other, we talk about it and come to a decision as a group. And every issue is decided as a group. Should you decide to stay we will fight fiercely to protect you." standing up he recalled Bagon and turned to the group "I think she'll stay. But I want to thank you all for your loyalty over the last eight months. I'm glad you've all stuck by me."

"You know the issue I had with Oaks Charizard?" Charizard asked which earned wary nods "seeing Bagon just then, I get it."

Chuckling Ash patted him on the wing and recalled everyone. "I better scan her first before we head to Blaine's Gym"

Taking out Dexter he bleeped

"Bagon, Pokedex Number 371, The Rock Head Pokémon. This Pokémon is female and has the ability Sheer Force and a Naughty Nature. BAGON has a dream of one day soaring in the sky. In doomed efforts to fly, this Pokémon hurls itself off cliffs. As a result of its dives, its head has grown tough and as hard as tempered steel. It knows the moves Headbutt, Ember, Dragonbreath, Tackle, Leer and Bite. She also has the egg move Hydro Pump, but it has not yet been unlocked.

"Wow" Ash said, "she's quite a Pokémon with that ability and move set." Which earned a nod from Pikachu. "Now, let's go find Blaine. He mentioned an Inn the other day so let's start there shall we?"

Walking towards the Pokémon Centre Ash asked a local for directions to the Big Riddle Inn and noting them down mentally Ash walked towards the directions he was given. Ironically enough it was situated on the side of the volcano where the fissure was. It was a three-story building with a red roof, but apart from that there was nothing remarkable about it. Walking inside he noticed the man from the other day standing at the desk and as soon as Ash walked in Ash sensed his demeanour change. He had decided last night that he wouldn't confront Blaine, he likely wouldn't hear anything different than what he read in his diary and he believed the passages that concerned his dad so there was no point in asking him about him.

"Hello" Ash said walking up to the counter "I'm here for a gym battle with Blaine."

"I'm afraid I don't know where he is" Blaine said.

"Cut the crap Blaine" Ash said interrupting him "I know it's you, I've known since I met you."

"How?" Blaine asked warily.

"Your answers were entirely too convenient" Ash said "and I felt you tense up when I mentioned Agatha, just like I did just now. So, can we have a battle?"

"Hmmm" Blaine said looking at him appraisingly as his whole countennence changed "we can have one later. For now though you need to pass my gym challenge. You've already passed the first test by finding me, now you simply need to find my gym."

"I have done" Ash said, "in fact I found it yesterday."

"How?" Blaine asked astounded.

"How many people do you know think of flying into the mouth of a volcano?" Ash said smirking "I was flying on my Charizard when I saw several platforms above the lava inside the volcano."

"Ah" Blaine said "no, that one is for my Elite challenges. My other gym is located inside the Volcano. You have two hours to find it, if you haven't by then I will return here and declare your challenge a failure. I'll give you a few riddles to try and locate it but apart from that you're on your own."

"Fine" Ash said taking the piece of paper and perusing them chuckling Ash walked out of the door leaving a worried Blaine to look after him.

Ash had always been good at riddles. They're simple logic puzzles that people tend to over analyse. The clues are always in the riddle, and often the simplest answer is the true one. Looking at the paper Ash read it aloud to Pikachu.

What do tourists think is hot and cool?

"Well, we know that the gym is located inside the Volcano as he pretty much told us that one. So, the hot coolness in the first riddle is likely a hot spring, which this Island is full of. So, let's go find one. I suspect it's near this place though because he has to be able to get to the gym before we do, and he's not left through the front door."

Walking around the hotel Ash saw a huge wooden fence just behind it. Scaling it he hopped onto the other side and was immediately blasted with steam from the hot springs dotted around area. While he was technically trespassing, he had been given permission by Blaine to hunt for this place, so he decided to carry on with the challenge. Reading the next clue out he looked around.

The water breathing dragon is not just for show.

"Water breathing dragon" Ash muttered as he walked around the area. "Water breathing dragon."

"Gyarados is a water breathing dragon" Pikachu said pointing to a statue of a Gyarados' head "could it be that?"

"Excellent work Pi" Ash said as they walked over to the head and inspecting it Ash noticed that it had a hollow hole just behind it. Pushing the head inwards it finally clicked, and a door opened up a panel at the side. A button came out so Ash did what anyone else would do and pressed it. Immediately the water began to drain away in the Gyarados spring, and the panel shifted to block the water outlet. They Gyarados head came back out and rose up into the air revealing a tunnel. "Onwards Pi" Ash said as he began the walk down the tunnel. The air began to get very humid and sticky as he walked but after around a hundred meters a door came into view. Remembering the last door handle he grasped without thinking Ash grabbed his bandanna, wrapped it around his hand and opened the door. Walking through Ash walked out onto a rocky outcrop. In the centre of the room was a huge stone column, easily sixty meters wide, and across from Ash was another mini outcrop where Blaine was standing.

"So, you found it then?" he said cheerfully "I have one last riddle for you. It's not a hat, but it keeps your head dry. If you wear it, it's only because you already lost it. What is it?"

"It's the wig you've been wearing since the moment I met you on the beach" Ash said dryly "as I told you earlier on, I knew it was you straight away. So, can we get on with this?"

"Very well" Blaine said taking off his wig and sunglasses revealing a very tall, thin bald man "this battle will be three on three, knockout style. The winner will be whoever has one Pokémon remaining. In the event of a tie, the Gym Leader wins."

"That's new" Ash said nodding "lets go Machoke" he said releasing his fighting type.

"Arcanine, to the battlefield" Blaine shouted releasing a huge dog.

"Flamethrower Arcanine" Blaine shouted after a minutes stand-off. Arcanine obeyed and sprayed a huge stream of flame towards Machoke.

"Match it Machoke" Ash said as his Machoke released its own Flamethrower surprising Blaine.

"Extremespeed Arcanine" Blaine shouted as his dog set its paws on the field and took off with such speed normal people would have had a hard time keeping up with. Ash however was used to dealing with Pikachu so could track it all the way.

"Impact in three Machoke" Ash shouted as the dog smashed into a Machoke who had just crossed its arms in time. "Revenge"

Blaine was shocked that Machoke not only took the attack head on but stayed on its feet. What shocked him more was the speed that Machoke raced at a recovering Arcanine who grabbed it and slammed it onto the ground. "Don't let up Machoke. Leer and Rock Slide" Machoke grabbed the Arcanine by its head and looked directly into its eyes as an unseen force made it whimper before it was thrown ten feet away as Machoke punched the ground creating debris and threw them at the injured Arcanine. The poor dog had no choice but to take the attack and was thrown a further ten feet by the impact. It struggled to its feet but valiantly did so letting out a roar that echoed around the volcanic chamber. Before Blaine could react though it flinched and collapsed onto the ground where it lay unmoving.

Returning it Blaine looked on in shock. The last person he had fought who had such ferocity was Ash's father. The fact his child had that same kind of fire wasn't surprising. Wondering how he should proceed he looked at the Machoke who was slightly panting. Arcanine had clearly done some damage as it was favouring its right leg. Remembering what Ash had done, he smiled. He could use that. "Rhydon to the battlefield"

"You're sending out a Rock type against a fighting type?" Ash asked perplexed.

"It's no threat to us because of you" Blaine said smiling "Rhydon Take Down."

Perplexed Ash waited until Rhydon was close before shouting "Brick Break" Both Pokémon crashed into each other and did quite a lot of damage.

"Disqualification" Blaine shouted stopping the match. "Machoke will be forfeit."

"Why?" Ash asked surprised before remembering "shit, I already locked in my four moves in the first battle."

"You did indeed, which was my plan all along" Blaine said as Ash apologised to Machoke and recalled him before sending out Wartortle.

"No, it wasn't" Ash said snorting "it was your plan after he had beaten Arcanine so you were fortunate. You've messed up now though. Wartortle, Hydro Pump." Immediately a geyser of water came flooding out of Wartortle and crashed into the Rhydon sending it flying into a rock at the side of the field. Surprisingly it stood back up, wincing heavily as it did so.

"My Rhydon is no ordinary Rhydon" Blaine said "I found him just outside of Olivine City. He taught himself to swim to get at some apples. It took a while to beat him too. Rhydon use Take Down again"

"Wartortle use Ice Beam on the ground" Ash shouted as he saw Rhydon get nearer. Wartortle complied as it jumped out of the way and Rhydon went skidding across the battlefield. It was just temporary though as the ice soon melted in the heat of the volcano. This gave Ash an idea. "Wartortle use Aqua Jet" Wartortle withdrew into its body and shot towards Rhydon who had just turned around only to take the attack to its face sending it sprawling again. "Finish it with Sheer Cold" Ash shouted.

"Rhydon, you must escape" Blaine shouted frantically as a huge blizzard came shooting out of every one of Wartortle's gaps in its shell. Sadly, Rhydon couldn't escape and was hit with the super-effective attack which encased it in ice. Fortunately for Blaine they were inside a volcano and the ice soon melted off Rhydon and it faceplanted into the ground. Blaine recalled it and looked at the Wartortle who didn't look tired at all. He knew his final Pokémon would struggle against it, but he was a gym leader and he'd already set the rules out. Having said that Ash didn't know what his final Pokémon was supposed to be and he wasn't really being out of bounds as Ash had faced the Elite Challenge in three other gyms.

"Our final battle will take place atop the gym on the Elite platform. To your right are stairs. Go up them, I'll meet you up there" Blaine walked into the door behind him and used an elevator to get to the top. Confused Ash recalled Wartortle and walked up the steps. There must have been at least a hundred so when he reached the top, he was slightly winded. Normally he'd have used Charizard to reach the summit, but he was fearful of getting Wartortle disqualified by doing so. Plus, this may have been another test.

"Well done" Baine said. "I used to be able to do that part of the challenge myself but I'm not as young as I once was. You have done well so far but my final Pokémon will test you like no one else has so far."

Ash released Wartortle from his pokeball onto one of the rocky platforms. There were nine surrounding a huge platform in the centre. "Last battle Wartortle. We still have one Pokémon in reserve, but I'd like to get this match squared away with you." Wartortle nodded and set itself.

"Normally I'd question your arrogance as overconfidence, but your Pokémon are extremely well trained for someone not even a year into their journey." Blaine said.

"It's assurance" Ash said looking at Blaine "we trust each other completely. Wartortle had a really shit life before he joined us and I'm honoured he chose to stay with me. I pay that back in several ways, one of which is training him to be the best he can be and any failures we deal with together. So, who's your final Pokémon?"

"One last riddle" Blaine said smiling "what Pokémon would a firefighter struggle to combat?"

"Not Wartortle" Ash said smiling as his Pokémon chuckled "given that he trained with The Pokémon Fire Brigade along with his Squirtle Squad."

Blaine immediately stopped smiling. It seemed his opponent had a counter for everything "Come on out Magmar" he shouted down to the lava. Nothing happened for a good ten seconds but then the lava began roiling and moving. Surprisingly it started to rise as a head broke the surface and a Pokémon rose to the top of the volcano and set foot on its own platform with bits of lava was spraying from its body. This Magmar was huge Ash observed as he took out Dexter.

"Magmar, Pokedex Number 126, the Spitfire Pokémon and the evolved form of Magby. This Pokémon is male. Born in an active volcano. Its body is always cloaked in flames, so it looks like a big ball of fire."

"A very impressive specimen" Ash commented "let's do our best Wartortle. Hydro Pump" a huge geyser of water sprayed towards Magmar who didn't even try and move.

"Flamethrower" Blaine commanded. Surprisingly the fire managed to push back the water. It was only Wartortles quick thinking that enabled it to Aqua Jet away.

"Magmar is more powerful than Wartortle" Ash murmured so only Pikachu could hear "I don't think we'll win this one, but we'll do as much damage as we can."

The battle raged on as Wartortle and Magmar traded blows as each trainer called out various attacks. While Wartortles attacks were doing some damage it wasn't enough as Magmar was stronger. Their cardio workouts though soon came into play as Wartortles engine seemed to be much better than Magmars so the battle was fairly even. Eventually though Magmar landed a Thunderpunch that sent Wartortle sprawling and landing heavily on its own platform Magmar panted and glared at its opponent who struggled to its feet.

Wartortle was furious. He hadn't been this angry since the day he was caught by Ash. It was clear to him that he was close to Magmars level, his attacks hurt his opponent a lot, but it seemed experience and power were going to be the deciding factor here. Well, he wasn't going to go out without a fight. Standing as tall as he could he dug deep, and a ball of water formed in front of him that grew larger and larger. Soon it was the size of Wartortle who was straining to contain it. Roaring his name, he launched the ball at the Magmar who was surprised his opponent was still standing.

"Fire Blast Magmar" Blaine commanded hurriedly. Magmar had barely got the move off before it was swamped and encased within the ball of water that carried on traveling and smashed against the side of the volcano itself. Wartortle however didn't get off lightly as the Kanji shaped burst of fire hit and knocked Wartortle clear off the platform. Ash recalled Wartortle before he could fall into the lava. Magmar however fell down the side of the lava and into the volcano pit.

"Did we win?" Ash asked confused.

"No" Blaine said as from within the lava Magmar burst out, landing on the platform and stared at Ash.

"Damn" Ash said quietly "it seems to have healed itself somewhat in the lava."

"I commend you Ash" Blaine said "it's only because I have homecourt advantage here in the volcano that we're still in this fight. I have no idea what move you used but it was very powerful."

"Something we've been working on" Ash said as he took out his last Pokémon. Pikachu was about to protest when Ash shook his head "not this one Pi. He's asked for this one specifically."

Ash threw his pokeball up into the air and Charizard landed heavily on the platform. Snorting smoke he observed his opponent and glanced at Ash.

"Wartortle very nearly won the battle" Ash said answering Charizards unasked question "but unfortunately his last move knocked Magmar into the volcano where it healed itself. It's not at full health unfortunately, but this is the final battle."

"I suppose it will have to do" Charizard growled making Magmar narrow its eyes in anger. It had never been so disrespected in its life.

"You may win this one lizard, but you will always know I was never at full health when we battled." Magmar said panting.

"Blaine" Ash called over "How long does it take Magmar to heal itself in the volcano?"

"Depends on how injured he is. Usually about five minutes to get to full health. Why do you ask?" Blain asked.

"Magmar" Ash said calling over to it "go heal yourself. We'll wait."

"What?" Blaine said "why?"

"I want Magmar to know that when Charizard is standing with its foot on his head that it was at full health and lost to a stronger fire type." Ash said looking direct at it "I want it to be under no illusions that it lost fair and square to a better Pokémon" angrily Magmar jumped off the platform and into the lava.

"Charizard, while you wait do some laps of the volcano. Get yourself warmed up." Nodding Charizard did so taking off and performing a few aerial manoeuvres.

"You're a strange one Ash" Blaine shouted over "you could have gained yourself a badge. Now you might not get one at all."

"This isn't about me or my wants" Ash shouted back "I don't think I could put up with Charizard moaning forever more about this." Ash had to dodge a Flamethrower from above as Charizard had clearly overheard him which made him chuckle. Movement from the volcano drew their attention. Charizard landed just as Magmar appeared from the lava and jumped onto its own platform.

"Ok Ash" Blaine said "given this has already become a strange yet enjoyable battle, as gym leader I hereby take the shackles off us both. No move limit, no time limits and may the best fire type win. What do you say?"

"Agreed" Ash said, "do what you do Charizard."

Charizard's perspective

Immediately he rose into the air dodging a Flamethrower. The heat that came off it made Charizard smile. At last, a worthy opponent or a close approximation anyway. He was quite content doing loops in the air while the Magmar exhausted itself. Every now and then he'd dive bomb the Magmar causing it to dodge before he was back in the air. He did this just enough times before he grew bored. The heat from the Flamethrowers had lessened significantly, or maybe it had figured out it would get nowhere wasting energy. Looping back around Charizard lined it up and created a huge Hurricane with its wings which buffeted the Magmar and gradually moved it closer and closer to the edge. When it was on the edge Charizard did a barrel roll and coated himself with flames. While he had nowhere near perfected this move, he knew that he would have to get past the recoil at some point.

He distantly heard Ash warn him about something. Looking through the fire he noticed there were several rocks being thrown at him. Grinning he ploughed straight through them and smashed into the startled fire type and carried him to the volcano wall where he became embedded into it before starting to fall headfirst into the lava. Charizard roared before alighting on one of the pillars. He heard Ash say something but couldn't hear him over the noise of the volcano. Looking at Ash he struggled to listen but picked up the words 'Volcano' and 'heal'. Understanding dawned on Charizards face. Any damage he did would be healed if Magmar touched the lava. Quickly he took off and flew after the falling Magmar but wasn't quick enough as Magmar fell headfirst into the lava. Cursing himself he quickly flew to the top of the volcano and alighted on the rim while looking down into the fiery furnace. Irritated with himself Charizard narrowed his eyes as Magmar came bouncing out of the volcano and stood on one of the pillars and smirked.

Shaking his head Charizard looked around and noticed something very strange. He would have to talk to Ash about it afterwards but for now he had a match to win. He rose into the air to evade another Rock Throw before swooping down again. This time he flew headfirst into a Fire Blast which sent him hurtling off to the side. Angry at being hit like that Charizard righted himself mid-flight and sent several Air slashes at the Magmar who had to weave in between them to evade them. Taking advantage, he homed in on the Magmar who sent rocks flying at him. Deciding that he'd have no chance of evading he coated himself in fire again and ploughed straight through them and into Magmar only this time he grabbed hold of it and carried it up into the sky. The fall would likely cause damage, but Charizard was irritated that he'd let the Magmar heal twice already, even if one was on Ash's orders so he lined up the very central platform, tightened his hold and decided to use one of his most powerful moves. Charizard prided himself on his speed, he knew he was far faster than a Charizard normally is, couple that with his power and it led to a massively destructive Seismic Toss attack.

Landing on the ridge again Charizard blew smoke out of his nose as he waited for the dust to settle. Finally, it did and Charizard was astonished to find Magmar looking at him, scuff marks and bruises all over its body. Looking defiantly at Charizard it grunted "Good match, Lizard" before falling forwards onto its knees and then onto its face. Snorting Charizard landed next to the fallen Magmar, lifted it up and threw it backwards into the lava before flying over to Ash, butted his head and turned to face an astonished Blaine.

Normal perspective

"Well Ash" Blaine said, "that was one hell of a battle, and you have one hell of a Pokémon there."

"He certainly is" Ash said, "we'd all be worse off if he wasn't around."

"Keep that mindset" Blaine said "we'll meet back downstairs on the original gym. I can talk to you properly there rather than shouting." He stopped speaking as Magmar made his reappearance and landed at the side of Blaine. Nodding at Ash, he recalled himself to Blaines pokeball.

Making his way down Ash recalled Charizard and eventually met face to face with Blaine.

"Here" he grunted "it's the Volcano badge. You've more than earned it. Also, there's this too. It's TM 38. Fire Blast. It's one of the most powerful fire type moves there are. I'm sure you can put it to good use."

"Cheers Blaine" Ash said putting them both away "it was a great battle. We'll have to do it again someday." Ash contemplated saying something about the diary but decided against it, he already had all the information he'd need, and he didn't know where Mewtwo was so it would be wasted air. Ash nodded at Blaine and left via the door he came through quickly making his way out of the spa, through the Big Riddle Inn and onto the path towards the Pokémon Centre. His mind was a whirlwind of activity.

Blaine watched as Ash walked out of the arena. He could see he was going to ask him something, Blaine suspected it was about the Mewtwo project but strangely Ash just left. Standing there for a good few minutes Blaine called out all his Pokémon. "Well guys, I suspect the end is in sight. Please don't mourn me, I've led a privileged life. And we can say that we went down fighting. It's been an honour." His Pokémon all nodded at him before making their way inside the facility. All except Magmar. "Not this time old friend. I've been living on borrowed time for the last ten years; we both know this. I need you to stay here and look after the Volcano. It's your home after all. It's been an honour Magmar, it truly has." Silently Magmar looked at Blaine before turning around and jumping into the lava leaving Blaine to look across the battlefield. Turning around he walked back into the tunnel that connected to the battlefield. Making his way to his room he stopped dead. He wasn't alone.

"Hello Blaine, long time no see old friend."

Ash healed his Pokémon and sat down wondering why he hadn't asked Blaine anything. Shaking his head, he gathered his things from his room and picked up his belt. Walking down to Nurse Joy, he thanked her for healing his Pokémon and gave her the room key back. He walked down to the beach where he let Charizard out and climbed onto his back.

"We're heading for Seafoam Islands Charizard" Ash said, "it's due east from here, should be half an hour's journey."

Nodding Charizard took off and headed off out towards the open sea. "Magmar left those marks inside the volcano" he said suddenly making Ash perk up.

"How do you know?" Ash asked curiously.

"His attacks that missed me hit the side of the volcano. They matched up with the scorch marks that were left next to the fissure." Charizard said.

"We suspected it was a fire type. I didn't know what he had but Magmar makes sense. Cheers Charizard." Ash said receiving a grunt in reply.

Forty minutes later an island hoved into view on the horizon. Landing just outside a cave entrance he recalled Charizard and pulled out a map he had printed off as well as his cold weather gear that was in his bag. "We're here looking for a few items for Professor Oak. They're called an Ice Stone and Nevermeltice. They're supposed to interact with Ice Types very strangely, so he wants to study them more. Now this is likely to be very dangerous. We're allowed to roam freely on the top three floors. Below that is restricted. Luckily, I have authorisation from Sam, but the terrain will be treacherous. We know of at least four people that have died down there in the last five years. There's been stories of treacherous seas churning on the bottom floor, and lethal Pokémon. We need to take this seriously."

Ash quickly got dressed into the cold weather gear and entered the cave where immediately the bitterness hit him. It was stark contrast to the weather on Cinnabar which was sweltering while the cave was frigid. Walking through the cave Ash wondered how the hell he was going to find the items given he was only given basic drawings. Seriously, Ash thought, why couldn't he have been given actual pictures of the damn things? Who the hell uses pencil and paper to draw a picture of a bloody rock?

He soon came out to be on a huge walkway above an infinitely huge seeming cavern below him. Every now and then he'd see other walkways going off in different directions into various tunnels underneath him. Steadily the walkway headed downwards into another cavern so Ash decided to stay on the same path, at least until it ended. He walked past several Pokémon roaming around living their usual existence but half an hour later Ash paused. He was at a ladder that led downwards only you couldn't see the bottom of it. Now normally he'd be straight down there but this was the ladder that led to the underground caverns. Instead, he decided to get his rope out and attach a light to it before letting that go down. His rope was thirty feet long so he knew it would reach underneath, the question was how far it would go. He was wrong. The rope still hadn't settled on solid ground when he reached the end. And peering down the ladder he could only just see the torch swinging in the abyss.

"I don't like this Pi" Ash said looking at him "that's a thirty-foot rope I've just dangled that still hasn't touched the ground. Surely the next level isn't that deep?"

"I fear the only way of knowing is to descend the ladder of doom" Pikachu said laughing at his joke. Shaking his head Ash secured the rope to his backpack, climbed onto the ladder and steadily made his way down. after ten feet he felt the rope lurch behind him but not as though it had been grabbed. It seems something was walking away with it at the same pace as he was descending. As he travelled further down, he quickly came to where the ladder stopped. Only underneath him was no ground. It had disintegrated. The path was still only a step off the ladder, but Ash didn't know how secure the path was given how some of it was no longer there. The torch issue was solved though, underneath the path was a stream, heading the same way the path did. It seemed his torch had hit the stream and was being carried away with the current.

"I hate to ask this Pi, but can you leap to the path? You're lighter than me." Ash said looking worried "it's either that or I fall into the icy stream and we both get carried away to who knows where."

Grumbling Pikachu did just that and hopped around on the path testing its sturdiness "It seems ok Ash. But I'd jump and move as far from the edge as you can as quickly as you can." Nodding Ash looped his leg and arms through the rungs, wound up the torch and placed it back in his bag. Throwing his bag onto the ledge he leapt after it and quickly grabbed his bag and sprinted ten feet away from the edge. Looking back, he saw that it was still perfectly fine. Shaking his head, he carried on down the path, with the stream at his right-hand side. Every now and then he'd see a Pokémon pop out of the water, but it would quickly disappear.

The temperature had been steadily declining the lower he went. After a while he was starting get a bit concerned that they'd never find the items they were looking for. He was reading little bits from a book Sam had given him on the two items. The Nevermeltice looked like a piece of crystal, was translucent and a baby blue colour. It's biggest indication however was the chill it gave off regardless of the weather around it. The Ice stone however was a different matter. The book thought it would look exactly like a normal evolution stone only encased in clear rock. Why couldn't Sam have printed off pictures rather than reading a book with incomplete information in it? He could be here for centuries and not find the bloody thing as the whole place was encased in ice and snow.

After an hour of walking down various passages Ash heard something in the distance. Experience told him it was a waterfall but they were at least seventy feet underground, how could a waterfall be happening here? Heading towards the noise Ash stopped at the edge of the path. Below him was a humongous cavern, at least three hundred feet in diameter. On the other side of where Ash was however was a hole in the ceiling, judging by the ray of light coming down Ash would guess he was on the other side of the island. How there was a hole though was a mystery to Ash. Suddenly Ash was startled by a noise that was coming from down within the cavern. He had to really strain to hear it, but it was there. Creeping up to the edge he glanced down and nearly fell over the edge in shock. Down at the bottom of the cavern was a huge lake. That wasn't the shock. What was the shock though was seeing an Articuno with a baby chick chittering away to each other.

Ash realised that he was stuck. He couldn't go back up as it would take forever to reach the summit. His only option was to go forward and as he hadn't found what he was looking for either the best chances of getting the two items were likely down there. Sighing Ash crept back up the path until he was twenty feet away and called out Charizard.

"We have an issue. We need to get to the bottom only there's an Articuno and a chick in the nest down there. Can you and Pikachu go and explain that I'm here, that I have no intention of trying to capture her or her chick and that I'm simply here to look for a few items. Please?" Ash asked.

Snorting Charizard grabbed a startled Pikachu and flew further down the path and into the cavern proper. Ash quickly crept back to the ledge to see what was said.

"Greetings my lady" Charizard said as he landed thirty feet away from Articuno who had quickly gathered her chick behind her and looked fiercely at them. "We promise you we are not here for you, to do you any harm or be a nuisance in any way."

"And how do I know that?" she screeched walking forwards. She wasn't as huge as her brother Zapdos but the chill she was emanating was felt even by Charizard.

"You have our word, my Lady" Pikachu said walking forward "we have no intention of harming you or your chick. Our trainer has been given a task. He is up there now but sent us to let you know he's here so you wouldn't be startled and attack first."

"I've had several trainers say exactly the same thing over the centuries" She said eyeing them "why should I trust you?"

"Well, he is the Chosen One" Pikachu said offhandedly looking at Charizard "if that helps." He finished looking back at her.

"He's Lady Arceus' chosen?" she said looking at Pikachu "can you prove that?"

"Yes actually" Pikachu said as he concentrated. From his cheeks came the light ball that he had been training with this week "Lord Zapdos, my grandsire gave me this when we saved his life a few months ago. He also explained how you three had offspring. It's how I know he's my grandsire."

"You bear his power" She said looking at him regally "very well. Bring him here, but I will not be afraid to attack should he try anything."

Charizard nodded and flew back up to Ash. Climbing on Ash flew down with Charizard and stood face to face with his third legendary Pokémon. He didn't count Mew and Arceus as they weren't in his reality when they spoke to him. He was taller than the Articuno but something confused him.

"You're not Lady Articuno" he blurted out without thinking.

Immediately she flared up in anger at the disrespect Ash had given her "HOW DARE YOU!" she immediately made the air frigid as she launched an Icy Wind at him.

"Take it easy" Ash shouted back at her as he produced an aura shield making the attack bend around him "you silly sod."

"How dare you speak to me like that" Articuno screeched at him flapping her wings in his direction, pummelling him with snow.

"What did I say that was wrong?" Ash shouted over the noise.

"Your disrespect will not be tolerated" she screeched as an attack of pure light blue formed in her mouth before she was cut off by a huge Flamethrower from Charizard who had had enough. Screeching in pain she turned to Charizard before she was hit with a Thunder Wave and the wind and snow died down.

"You need to calm down my Lady" Pikachu said.

"She's not Lady Articuno" Ash said walking over to the paralysed legendary bird. Running his hand on her he pulsed his aura out and gradually began to heal the paralysis. "And don't try and pretend you are. Pi, we felt the power of Lord Zapdos, and he was on deaths door when we did so. We still would struggle against him even with all the training you've had since. We have just beaten her with a Flamethrower and a Thunder Wave. So, I suspect you're a daughter of hers. Am I correct?"

"Yes" she muttered furiously as the paralysis wore off. Shaking her wings, she glared at Ash before turning around. In her anger she had forgotten about her daughter who had ran and hidden behind a rock. Hopping over to her she cooed at her coaxing her to come out which eventually the baby did. She only looked to be around a few months old but it was her colouring that startled Ash. Where her mother was a beautiful pale blue this one was an icy blue.

"A shiny Articuno?" Ash breathed out "she's beautiful. How old is she?"

Still looking at Ash warily she spoke "five moons old. She cannot yet take flight, but her wings are developing rapidly. In another month she will be ready to leave here."

"Where is your usual nesting ground?" Ash asked curiously as he crouched down to be on the baby's level. Surprisingly the baby hopped over to Ash and rubbed its head on his hands. Infusing it with aura he stroked her mane, astounded at how cold she was already. Reaching into his backpack he pulled out one of Charizards Pokéblocks and split it in half. He opened his palm, and the Ice legend began to devour it. Chuckling Ash stood up as it squawked at him in anger.

Reaching into his pack he pulled out Dexter

"Articuno, Pokédex number 144, The Freeze Pokémon. Articuno is a legendary bird Pokémon that can control ice. The flapping of its wings chills the air. As a result, it is said that when this Pokémon flies, snow will fall. This Pokémon has a mild nature and the ability Snow Cloak."

"She has a Mild nature; she's going to be a handful" he said as he threw the other half at Charizard who snatched it out of the air with his mouth and ate. The little bird hopped over to Charizard and began to cheep at him. Looking down Charizard looked confused before he sighed and lowered his mouth and opened it to show there was none left. Immediately she recoiled from the heat but still braved his maw. "she's also very brave."

"Are you really the Chosen One" Articuno asked after observing the interaction "why you?"

"Honestly, I've no idea." Ash said sighing "Arceus chose me when I was six, told me I was born to be her voice on earth and it's my job to cleanse the planet of people who would look to do Pokémon harm. Far too many people use Legendaries for their own ends, and Arceus' ridiculous edicts prevent you guys and her from retaliating unless your lives are at risk. So yeah, I was created to be that bridge between her, Pokémon and people."

"You question Arceus?" Articuno asked amazed.

"Don't you?" he retorted "you must have heard stories from your mother or other legendaries you've been around about them hunting you guys and being left to fend for yourselves without any way of retaliation. Honestly it stinks. We killed people in Power Plant because Lord Zapdos was half an hour away from dying had we not interfered, and Arceus still didn't intervene."

"I have to admit I did want to question it, but as I am only a youngling compared to the others I didn't feel as if I had a right to" Articuno said nodding "why are you in my home anyway?"

"Oh" Ash said surprised. "We came here looking for two items, both said to help Ice Types in different ways. A Nevermeltice and an Ice Stone. Honestly though, we doubt they're in here as we saw nothing on the way down. We were about to descend down here when we saw you."

"Indeed" Articuno said "I have no knowledge of the items you are after, but you are free to look around. You only have a short amount of time though before this area becomes unbearable for humans. Something happens to the rocks and water after a certain time, add that in with my cold nature and the fact we sleep in blizzard conditions, this place quickly becomes inhospitable."

Nodding Ash gave the baby one last stroke on her head, recalled Charizard and wandered around the huge cavern looking for the two items. Pikachu decided to stay behind to entertain the baby legend. He had a stroke of luck with the Nevermeltice as hanging from the ceiling were stalactites made of pure ice. But inside the ice were the Nevermeltice. It seemed they grew along with the stalactites and became encased in ice as they did so, thus gaining the properties. Getting his pickaxe, he chipped a bit off which shattered into three shards. Getting a towel out Ash placed them inside it before putting them inside his bag. He honestly had no clue about the Ice Stone so decided to give up trying to find it. As he was walking away from a dark recess of the cavern he was suddenly hit in the face with snow. Spluttering he looked around trying to find out who had hit him. Shaking his head of snow he looked up and narrowly dodged another flurry of snow. His eyesight had quickly become impaired but thankfully Ash was an expert in aura and hit the culprit with an Aura Sphere making it cry out in pain. Rubbing his eyes, he gradually cleared them and couldn't believe what he was seeing. In front of him lay a knocked out shiny Snorunt. It was a beautiful colour and immediately something in his brain said to capture it so he did. Scanning it with Dexter he was very surprised. It was clearly only a baby.

"Snorunt, Pokédex Number 361, the Snow Hat Pokémon. This Pokémon is female, has a Bashful nature and the ability Inner Focus. Snorunt live in regions with heavy snowfall. In seasons without snow, such as spring and summer, this Pokémon steals away to live quietly among stalactites and stalagmites deep in caverns."

As he pressed the button to deactivate the Pokédex Snorunts Pokéball disappeared from Ash's hands. He already had six Pokémon on him, so Snorunt was back with Professor Oak. Taking out his Pokégear he snapped many pictures, even getting a sneaky video of Articuno with her baby before walking back over to her.

"We're going now. I found one of the two items" Ash said "So someone else will have to try and find the other. I'll speak to my sponsor about making sure no one comes here for the next few months. Hopefully by then you've gone to your new home wherever that might be."

"I thank you Chosen One" Articuno said. Her attitude and ego had taken a beating after meeting him as he had effortlessly beaten her, in just two moves and she could easily have been captured leaving her chick defenceless. She certainly would not be letting her mother, or her cousins know as she would never hear the end of it. "Our main nest is out of reach for human beings up in the mountains. It's tradition to be born here though."

Nodding Ash called out Charizard, regathered Pikachu and flew off out of the hole. It took a minute to reach the end but when they did, they flew straight out of Seafoam and shot into the air. Looking down they saw that they weren't on the same island they had landed on. They had come out of a very tiny island attached to the back that was surrounded by razor sharp rocks. It was utterly inaccessible from sea. "So that's how no one found their home" Ash muttered before telling Charizard to head for home.

Several hours later Ash landed at Professor Oaks lab. Walking in he greeted Sam and handed over the Nevermeltice. He told him of his explorations and what he had found. He showed him the pictures and the video of the huge cavern he had also discovered.

"I won't ever be releasing the Articuno pics professor" Ash said. Surprisingly Sam wasn't surprised. "for centuries Articuno have used it to give birth safely to their offspring in safety. I won't be the one to make it become a tourist attraction."

"No worries, Ash" Sam said sighing as he leaned back. "We have another issue though. I take it you haven't spoken to your mum just yet?"

"No" Ash said immediately standing up "is she ok?"

"She's perfectly fine" Sam said waving away his concerns "I'm sorry to have worried you. No, you'll find that tomorrow you'll likely have a visitor. Less than an hour after you gained Blaine's badge, he was found dead on the beach in Cinnabar. And as you were the last one to see him the police and Elite Four have questions. Now from what I know there is clear evidence of you leaving and him still being alive. The CCTV has corroborated that so I think it's just going to be routine questions."

"Hmmm" Ash said looking out of the window "I went straight to the Pokémon centre after our battle and then onto the Seafoam Islands. Will I need to prove that?"

"I'm not sure" Sam said "however you caught a Pokémon inside the caverns which places you at the Seafoam Islands at a time it would be impossible for you to have taken part in his death. You'll be fine Ash, we all know you had nothing to do with it."

"Thanks Sam" Ash said standing up "for the information and help. Oh, I need that new Pokémon for tonight as I plan on transferring ownership to someone else so I'll deactivate Machoke for now from my roster, but he'll be coming home with me."

Nodding Sam stood up and gathered his Snorunt "who's it for?" he asked taking out some paperwork from a drawer.

Ash gave a name which surprised Sam but when he explained why he nodded as it made perfect sense. "I'll send Charizard with her in the morning. He deserves a rest after what he's done for me lately. I'll let you know what happens tomorrow when I put Machoke back onto my active roster."

Leaving Ash headed home where he spoke to his mum. He decided to wait until after the visit from the police to go through the information he had found.

Elsewhere

"Sir" the receptionist said over the PA system "we have agents Jessie and James here to report news of a sensitive nature to you. They've said it cannot be delivered to anyone but you directly and refuse to do otherwise."

"Let them through" came a curt voice. Instead of acknowledging him she simply pressed a button on her desk which released the door lock. Hurriedly Jessie and James walked through the door, down a small hallway and into the boss's room. This place always freaked them out. On one side was a huge TV that connected to various places he owned, behind him was a massive window overlooking the city they were in. In the office, his face hidden in shadows was the boss, at his feet was a Persian who didn't even acknowledge them. Surprisingly though in a seat opposite him was Agent Domino. Gulping they walked forward and stopped at a line on the floor.

"Speak" he said, "Domino stays."

"Sir," Jessie said "we arrived on Cinnabar to meet with your contact to find Blaine. We waited at the designated place that was arranged for us an hour before we were due to meet only he never arrived. We waited for a few more hours in case they were late, but they never turned up. We walked back towards the Pokémon centre when we were stopped and questioned by police from the town."

"So, he never turned up" the boss said "he will be dealt with. Domino, I want you to hunt Blaine."

"There's no need sir" James blurted out surprising himself with how bold he was being "the police were questioning us because Blaines body was found on the beach. They were asking us questions because we're known associates of the last person to have seen him in person alive."

"Which was?" Domino asked.

"Ash Ketchum Sir" Jessie said. "he had a gym battle with him."

"And why are you known associates with him?" she asked menacingly.

"We don't report that to you" Jessie said defiantly "if the boss wanted us to divulge that information you would already know. We gave him our plan, and he approved."

Sulking and seething with anger she turned to face the boss "They're correct Domino." he said with finality "they have my full approval on their mission. They have already provided me with more information on the boy in a month than the last few scouts ever have." Facing Jessie and James he continued "continue with your mission. Dismissed."

Nodding Jessie and James left as quickly as they could. Domino was still very angry about being left out of a plan. She had worked her way up to be the right hand of the Boss himself, and he had left her out of a mission? That was unthinkable. She was startled from her inner monologue of what torture device she would use on those two should she be given the chance by the Boss standing up and looking out of the window.

"Someone hunted and killed Blaine and while I would normally be happy our target was eliminated it begs the question of why. The answer is because they knew we were after him too, which means they likely have the information I seek. Put together a team to find his killer. They report to you, you report to me. But Domino" he said turning to face her "do not dare be so openly defiant in my presence again. Not even you are indispensable my dear. Dismissed." Turning back to face the window he narrowed his eyes. Yet again Ash Ketchum was on the scene of one of his missions and yet again a convenient alibi was produced. Looking down at his ruined right hand he scowled. Red had left a mark on him; it seems his son was just as troublesome. Sitting down at his desk he phoned his receptionist "get agents Cassidy and Butch in here. They need to start repaying us for their failures." Yes. There had been too many of those lately. Far too many.

Chapter 30: Chapter 30

Chapter Text

Chapter 30- Dangerous Discoveries

The next day after he had gone for his morning run Ash trained with his new Pokémon just outside Pallet Town, close to his new home.

"Snorunt" he said "I'm not keeping you. I caught you for someone else, so I'm going to leave your training up to them. For now though go over to Wartortle and learn Ice Beam. I don't expect you to get it down as you'll be with your new trainer by tonight but you can at least start. Hey, don't be down. I just have no room in my party for anyone else. Go on now" Snorunt shuffled off to Wartortle who happily began to teach the young ice type how to better access his inner core.

"Now Bagon" Ash said "there's loads we need to start work on. At the minute you just have the basic move set but thankfully I know what moves we can work on as Charizard has learned every move you can learn. So, for now were going to be focusing on your defence and speed. Your attacks will take care of themselves as we move along. We have a few months until we will be participating in a series of battles to see who the best trainer is in Kanto. On top of that we have been given a mission from Arceus herself. Pikachu will explain all about that as anyone could overhear us talking and it's a secret for now. But that's due to come to a head very soon too. So, we have a lot to get done in the next few months. Rest assured though I will be with you every step of the way, as will all my Pokémon. As we said on the beach yesterday, we are a family. Any issues we sort out between us, and the groups decision goes."

Nodding Bagon stayed still while Ash placed weights on her legs "these will build up your leg muscles making you faster when they're off. I spar with every one of my Pokémon, today I'll be exclusively with you to get you used to my training style and commands. You'll eventually be able to battle without my commands but that's a long way off. So come one. We're going to do a light jog around this clearing to build up your stamina. We'll be doing this every day from now on so you may as well accept it. While we run, we'll chat."

And so, Ash began running stopping every now and then to let his newest Pokémon team-member to catch her breath. Soon enough she'd be fine but for now he knew he had to limit what she could take. As they jogged, they chatted about what Ash expected from her, what she wanted to achieve and ultimately what their end goal would be. "I want to fly" she said as they stopped so she could take a drink out of her water bowl. Hearing a chuckle from behind she whipped round to see Charizard looking at her with an amused look on his face.

"She's just like you my friend" Ash said laughing. Seeing her confused face Ash explained that Charizard couldn't wait to evolve so he wouldn't have to walk anywhere ever again.

"I have wings" he grunted "what's the point in walking."

"Exactly" Bagon said nodding enthusiastically "that's my dream."

"Well, that's very achievable" Ash said handing Charizard his food bowl, watching as he flew off and charred his meal before eating "but what about after that?"

"I'm confused" she said, "what do you mean?"

"Charizard wanted to fly too" Ash explained. "But his main ambition was to challenge Legendaries and become known as Legendary himself. He's training with me for the minute to build a solid platform to start with but eventually he'll go around and challenge them on his own. Pikachu's ambition was to make rock and ground types fear him and to never underestimate electric Pokémon again. So far, he's achieved that by demolishing every rock/ground type he's come up against. Ivysaur's ambition is to have a garden all to himself that he can tend to while helping nature out at the same time. The garden to our house is going to be planned by him, I've just not told him fully yet. Wartortle hasn't really told me what he wants to achieve, nor has Machoke. To be honest I think they're just quite happy to be part of a family that looks out for each other after having no one for a long time before they joined me. And that's just as laudable a goal as everyone else's.

The one thing they all know is that they'll always have a home wherever I'm at. So, you don't have to answer it now, but I want you to think about what you want to achieve. Our wants and needs will likely change over time so if you can't think of anything then don't worry. As I said only half my team know their dreams."

Nodding she went off to the side of the clearing and started jogging again. She didn't realise it, but she was thinking that much that she did two laps without needing to stop for a breather. A few hours later Ash recalled them all and headed back into Pallet Town. Stopping at his mum's restaurant he was told she was at home, so he carried on down the street and entered his mum's home. It felt strange to say that, that it wasn't his home anymore. It was a very sad thought. Walking into the kitchen Ash stopped. At the counter was his mum only she wasn't alone. There was a police officer and Bruno sitting down with her. Evidently, they were here to talk about Blaine.

"I'm just going to go for a shower, I'll be as quick as I can so we can get this over with" Ash said heading upstairs and showering. Changing his clothes he walked back downstairs, grabbed himself a bottle of water and sat down at the counter.

"Hello again Ash" Jenny said, "you might not remember me but I'm from Viridian City."

"I know" Ash replied "I recognise you. Why you though and not Cinnabar Jenny?"

"How do you know what it's about?" Jenny asked curiously.

"A little bird told me" Ash said smiling "and no, it wasn't anyone in this room nor in this town. So…what do you need to know?"

"Well yesterday afternoon, at approximately 17:00 Blaine was found dead on a part of Cinnabar Beach that was connected to an Inn he ran." Jenny said looking at him.

"Yeah, The Big Riddle Inn" Ash said interrupting "I had to go there to get my clues to be able to find his gym. He loves riddles apparently and I'm guessing he wanted to weed out the serious trainers from the tourists. "

"You're guessing?" Jenny asked.

"Yeah" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I first met him on the beach the day I got there. He was wearing a disguise, but I knew it was him from the way he twitched when I told him Agatha had told me he was still on the island." Hearing a chuckle Jenny turned to Bruno who immediately schooled his face. "He gave me his card with the hotel name on it. I needed to be on the island for a few days anyway as I had an appointment with Lance at the resurrection lab a few days after, so I explored the island. I found his Inn and the lab very quickly. Most of the time we just spent exploring the island. Anyway, after finishing with Lance, I went to the Inn and was given the clues to find his gym. They weren't very tough, and I challenged him for a badge and beat him 3-1, well technically 3-2 as I forgot about the four-move rule and Machoke was disqualified, and we didn't know Magmar could heal itself using lava, so he beat Wartortle through attrition."

"Wait" Bruno said interrupting "he used Magmar? Who else did he use?"

"He used an Arcanine, Rhydon and a Magmar why?" Ash asked.

"They are three of his Elite team, Rhydon is five, Arcanine is six and Magmar is his strongest" Bruno said leaning back astonished "you beat three of his Elite team?"

"Apparently" Ash said shrugging his shoulders. "Are you sure they're elite? We beat them pretty handily. Wartortle beat Magmar after beating Rhydon. He only lost because Wartortles attack blasted him into the lava where he healed up. We let him heal fully for the deciding match but Charizard didn't even break a sweat. After that we walked back downstairs to his gym, I got the badge and left. I stopped at the Pokémon Centre to hand in my key and get my team healed before setting out to Seafoam Islands on a mission from Professor Oak. I caught a Pokémon in there, Professor Oak has the timestamp on my capture if you need proof."

"Did Blaine speak to you about anything? Anything that would clue us in on his killers?" Jenny asked.

"No," Ash replied "I don't generally chit-chat with people and with Gym Leaders I'm there to just battle. Some like Brock and Lt Surge have become close acquaintances but other than that after the battle I've never spoke to any of them again. I see no reason to."

"Very well" Jenny said closing her notebook "I'll head over to Oak's lab to get the timestamp proof, but you should be cleared of any wrongdoing when i get that. We'll notify your mother when we clear you so have a good day. I'll see myself out." Jenny stood up, thanked Delia for her hospitality and left.

Once the door closed Delia turned to Ash and asked, "do you know what happened to Blaine?"

"I genuinely don't" Ash replied looking directly at her "everything I said was true. I have a hunch on why he was killed but I don't have an actual answer."

"Why do you think he was killed?" Bruno asked.

"Because Blaine was the one to cause the eruption of Cinnabar ten years ago" Ash said shocking them "speak to Lance, but I found Blaine and Fujis diary in the hidden lab that supposedly caused the explosion when Mewtwo escaped. There was no evidence down there of Mewtwo apart from various tubes and a huge incubator however the diary had many entries dedicated to their experiments. And one of the last entries was about Blaine being ordered to provide a cover for what they were doing. I showed Lance the impact point on top of the volcano where the eruption happened as there were various marks all along the ridge that could only be caused by a Pokémon's attack. Charizard confirmed to me it was Blaines Magmar as the missed attacks that hit the rim during our battle matched the ones we discovered. And I believe that's the reason my father disappeared. He too found out as the ridge is only accessible by flight.

Blaine and Fuji were set to go down for a long time due to his testimony. His disappearance meant all they got was a slap on the wrist due to the evidence going missing and the key witness 'dying'. I gave Lance the diary, he said he would sift through it and let the rest of you know when he could. I take it you're here because Blaine was a gym leader in Kanto?"

"Yeah" Bruno said "that and I was the closest person to Pallet Town when news came in you were to be questioned. Two birds, one stone and all that nonsense. Well, I must be going. I was only here to attend the questioning and to get answers if I could." Standing up Ash followed Bruno to the door. Just as he was about to leave Ash suddenly remembered something.

"Bruno, wait up a minute." Running down the garden he stopped in front of him and handed him a Pokéball "this is the Pokémon I caught yesterday in the Seafoam Islands. I was planning on sending it to your wife as a present for your daughter when she's old enough."

"Ash" Bruno said looking at the pokeball "she's only just turned two."

"I know" Ash said "but it's either for your wife or your daughter. It wouldn't suit your team, nor would it suit mine. Believe me."

Curious he pocketed the Pokéball, nodded and headed off. Ash went back inside and chatted to his mum about what he had printed off from the diary. She agreed that while it was useless for information on Red it was still pieces of the puzzle being added.

"I'm heading to Viridian in a few days to challenge Giovanni" Ash said over tea that night.

"Be careful with him Ash" Delia said "I know you have your suspicions of him, and to a certain extent I agree but when it comes to a battle, he's ruthless. There's a reason he's still the eighth gym leader after fifteen years."

"I know mum" Ash said nodding "but he's the last hurdle I need to face before the league. I'll be taking him deadly serious."

"Good" she replied nodding before smirking. "Do you know what his challenge is?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head "to be honest I like that about the challenge. I've never known a gym leaders' side-challenge before I met them and faced them and thinking on it I've only found out three of the seven I've faced. Those being Brock, Lt Surge and Koga. The Cerulean sisters were nearly fired and we had the debacle with Lorelei when I came back, Erika was also nearly fired because her receptionist was a bitch and then she accused Pikachu and I of not having a bond with each other despite her knowing what went on in Porta Vista, Sabrina was replaced and Richard hadn't had time to make a challenge and then Blaine just fought us. So, the secondary challenge aspect isn't going well" he finished laughing.

"I can tell you if you like?" Delia said, "I know all of their challenges."

"How?" Ash asked surprised.

"I was a secretary for Sam for a few years while you were growing up. It was my way of thanking him for everything he did for you." Delia said "one part of that role was vetting new gym leaders. Erika and The Sensational Sisters are very new, and when they came up with their badge name and challenge it was me that filed it away once it was approved."

"Oh" Ash said dumbly "then yeah sure, just not Giovannis."

"Brock's is 'Meeting a rock-hard challenge head on with grit in the face of adversity'," Delia said "The Sensational Sisters is 'An all-out offensive with water types' Lt Surge is 'Choose your battles wisely, for they may be your last' something he picked up in the war. Erika's is 'A flower can be deadly in its own right' referencing her plants and Gloom. Sabrina's was 'I know your every thought' which referenced her ability to know your plans before you said them aloud. Koga's is 'You cannot beat what you cannot hit' referencing his evasion techniques coupled with his status afflicting moves. Blaine's was 'you better bring a burn heal' obviously referencing his fire type Pokémon. Giovanni's is very relevant, but I'll let you figure it out."

"They make sense" Ash said nodding "I wonder what mine would be if I was a gym leader. Probably 'type advantage means exactly nothing' or something along those lines."

Laughing Ash and Delia stood up and washed the plates and put them away in comfortable silence.

"Oh" Ash said suddenly "how's Togepi? I noticed she's not around at the minute. Where is she?"

"Oh" Delia said laughing "Sylveon and Cleffa have been taking care of her today. She's currently upstairs asleep with them."

"Ah ok" Ash said "sorry again about leaving her here."

"It's ok" Delia said smiling "just next time remember to take any eggs with you."

The next few days flew by as Ash and Bagon got to know each other more. She still hadn't come up with a plan of what she wanted to get out of this partnership other than wanting to fly. Ash was fine with that, so they just got on with training. After they had finished training, he gathered them all round.

"Now," he said "we have one final hurdle to jump at Giovannis Gym. We have come this far; we won't fall here. Once we beat him, we'll have nearly two months of solid training. So, I want to tell you all my plan. We'll be visiting various places to train. Mt Silver will be the main one, I have already asked Sam to get the paperwork ready for training up there. Once we're there we will have zero communication available to us from the outside world. It'll just be us for those two months. I plan on leaving for there around a week after beating Giovanni. The finals are in three months so our last month will be just light training. I don't want any of you injured before the League and If we aren't ready in three months then we'll never be ready. If any of you need anything, let me know."

None of them said anything. They just looked more determined to get Giovanni out of the way. Flying back on Charizard Ash wondered how to put a certain plan into action. Landing Ash told Pikachu to go on in as he needed to chat with Charizard.

"I had something I wanted to run by you, but I wanted your opinion before I asked anyone else. I want you to think about it, give it serious thought and let me know after we have beaten Giovanni" Ash said.

Charizard just looked at him after Ash had explained. "I won't dismiss it" he said looking upwards "thank you for asking me first though."

"I always will" Ash said, "with all of you. Ultimately it will be your decision to make."

Nodding Charizard took off to wherever he goes to for the afternoon. Heading inside he explained to his mum what his plans were, and she just nodded. "I can't say I'm happy about the zero contact Ash. You're twelve years old and even grown adults struggle up there. It's not for the for the faint of heart. Plus, how do we contact you if the Mewtwo thing kicks off while you're there?"

"I know it's not a safe place" Ash said "but it's the best place for us to train in different environments and weathers. And as for Mewtwo I'll likely feel the world change should he decide to move. I'll be fine mum."

"Hmph" she said, "you better be."

The next day Ash spoke to Sam about including Machoke back onto his roster and flew Charizard to Viridian. Flying over the places he had visited what felt like years ago surprised Ash. A few Pokémon flew out of the forests surrounding Pallet Town and Route 1 but left them alone. "Can you just land there for a minute pal?" Ash shouted over the wind. Curious Charizard did so, and they hopped off. Crouching down to the ground he felt tears come to his eyes as a memory he had long forgotten came back to him.

"Do you remember this place, Pi?" Ash asked quietly.

"I do" Pikachu said, "this is where we nearly died two days into our journey."

"Indeed, it is" Ash said looking at his first friend "I'm glad it was you Pi that was with me that day."

"Me too Ash" Pikachu said.

"I take it this was where the Spearow incident took place?" Charizard asked looking around at the trees off to the side, narrowing his eyes as if seeing an invisible opponent who had long gone.

"It was" Ash said standing back up as they both righted themselves "we've come a long way, Pi. Thanks, Charizard. If you like you can go for a fly. We're only a few hours away from Viridian now."

Nodding Charizard took off. "What happened to the Rainbow Wing?" Pikachu asked suddenly.

Chuckling Ash took his hat off and handed it to a surprised Pikachu. There in the lining was the Rainbow wing, looking a little worse for wear but still shining and giving off a strong presence. "I considered sending it home to keep it safe" Ash said putting the hat back on his head "but her presence has been a lifeline for me over the last ten months. From time to time I looked at it and felt calmer, more certain and more assured that I was heading in the correct direction. It's why I wear my hat during our meditation sessions. I'll be forever grateful to Ho-oH for the gift."

Hours later Viridian City came into view. Last time he didn't really get a chance to explore Viridian City, but he decided to spend a few days here before heading back home. Walking into the Pokémon Centre Ash handed over his Pokédex and went up to his room. Printing off information on Giovanni was difficult as his full team was kept a major secret. Trainers had to sign an NDA before facing him, Giovanni had remarked a few times that it was to keep everyone guessing but Ash had certain suspicions as to the real reason why.

"He's hiding something" Ash muttered "but what?"

The next day Ash walked around the city and found it wasn't teeming with people, but it was still busy which Ash found strange. Maybe it was because there were three ways out of the city, one of which led to Victory Road and ultimately the league. Sitting down at a café Ash was surprised when he was joined by someone. "Hello James" Ash said putting away his laptop.

"Hi Ash" James murmured "we have news, big news. Is there anywhere private we can go?"

Nodding Ash stood up and walked back to the Pokémon centre while James rang Jessie telling her to meet them there. Waiting in the lobby he was soon joined by Jessie, and they went up to Ash's room.

Whistling as he walked in James remarked "sweet room. How did you get this?"

"These are the professors' rooms" Ash said getting three bottles of water out of the fridge and handing them one each. "Now, talk."

"The boss is in the loop about us being acquaintances" Jessie said without any preamble "Domino is furious though so be careful, she'll attack you on sight despite being told you're off limits. We've also managed to narrow down our search on Meowth, we did some digging at HQ and found that he was taken away the day after the incident here by Giovanni. He never spoke to us. Four days later we were sprung by the Boss and sent on a mission that lasted until a few weeks before we met up with you. In that time several things went wrong for Team Rocket, and it made us sit up and think about the path we were on. Cassidy and Bitch being maimed was the deal-breaker."

"A word of advice" James said looking serious "if you happen to find yourself across from Domino do not hesitate to take her out permanently. She's the boss's right hand because she's lethal and sadistic and she will not hesitate to hurt you as painfully as she can. And if she brings out a black rose then do not be hit with it, it's laced with poison and she carries around a black Tulip that acts as a taser."

"I know" Ash said "over the last Ten months I've kept records of every rocket member I've met or heard about. And with every piece of new information, I updated my notes. Domino is number three on my list of people to question."

"Who's one and two?" James said looking concerned at Jessie.

"Your boss and Mewtwo" Ash said, "Fuji and Blaine rounded off the top 5."

"Shame that Blaine died before you could question him then" Jessie said almost too casually.

"It is indeed" Ash said smirking "and luckily I was in the Seafoam Islands at the time of his death, or I'd likely be in a cell right now."

After a few minutes of silence Ash broke it "I'm challenging Giovanni tomorrow around 12-1pm. Your window is then to find Meowth but after that I can't help you. Here, I was able to get these using my professor status. When the gym was rebuilt, the league paid for it, and I managed to get the blueprints for it. That's all I can do though."

"These are incredibly helpful" James said looking through them.

"If anyone finds out, I will deny any and all knowledge" Ash said seriously looking between them "and then I'll come and break both of your knees. Understood?"

Gaining two nods Ash sat back.

"The other bit of news is this" Jessie said handing over a plastic folder. Confused Ash opened it and his eyes nearly bulged out as he read. There was only two pieces of paper but what they held was mind boggling "We couldn't get much; we don't have clearance for anything more just yet and getting that was risky. But we felt like we owed you for helping us with Meowth."

"Thank you, guys," Ash said stuttering and shaking "this is exactly what I've been looking for. Look, I need to ring mum, she needs to know this. I'm sorry guys but you need to leave."

Nodding they made their departures. Immediately Ash made his way over to the video phone and rang his mum. Hopefully she would be in. after eight rings he hung up. She was obviously at work so he'd have to ring later on. For the next few hours he read and re-read the papers he had been given, disbelieving what was written. Making his mind up he scanned them over to his mum so she could read them later on. Time seemed to crawl by, and despite his Pokémon telling him to calm down Ash became more and more antsy as the hours crept by. Finally, the time reached six and he rang his mum again. Thankfully she picked up after the second ring.

"Hi Ash" she said confused "is everything ok?"

"Sorry about this mum" Ash said quickly "I tried ringing you earlier on, but you weren't in, so I copied them and sent them to you for you to read but I couldn't wait for that, so I've rung back."

"Ash" Delia shouted concerned "slow down. now, explain slowly what you're rambling about."

"Mum" Ash said after taking a deep breath "I know where dad is."

Delia fainted. Cursing Ash hung up and rang Sam. When he picked up Ash hurriedly explained that his mum had fainted and could he go and check on her. The next half an hour was agonising for Ash as he waited for Sam to ring him back. Finally, his video phone rang, and he quickly picked up. On the other end of the screen was Sam holding up a woozy Delia. "Mum are you ok?" he asked.

"I'll be fine" she said breathing heavily as she held an ice pack to the back of her head. Glaring at Ash she continued "explain young man."

"There's something I haven't told you yet. Sam knows as my sponsor and to cover my back so, don't be mad at him. I asked him to keep it between us, at least until after the league but I've been in contact with two agents from Team Rocket who have defected. Now, I'm fully aware of the repercussions should it come out I'm in contact with Team Rocket which is why every conversation I have had with them has been secretly recorded and sent to Sam as evidence should they turn on me. All except todays that is. Today I gave them some information about a colleague they had been looking for and in return they gave me two pages they managed to print off secretly from their HQ. I sent them to you."

"I'll get to that bit later" Delia said narrowing her eyes "you stated you knew where Red is. Where is he?"

"Ah" Ash said scratching his head "I misspoke. What I meant was I know where to find out what happened at Giovannis Gym that day. You recall when he confronted the boss he left a time-flower behind? His time flower was re-located days afterwards with no one signing it out. Well on that piece of paper I sent to you it tells me of its current location and who has it."

"Who has my fucking husband?" Delia gritted out angrily each word punctuated.

"Ilene" Ash said causing Delia to stand up and swear. Without any warning she picked up her glass of water that Sam had given her and threw it at the wall while screaming. "That bitch! I'll fucking kill her!"

"No, you won't" Sam said sharply shocking them both "we'll do this the proper way. I will contact them and act as a go-between to get it back."

"No, you won't" Ash said looking directly at Sam "when I beat Giovanni tomorrow, I will be taking a trip. That trip will include a stop off at mum's house where I will collect her and from there we will both go to Cameran Palace where I will lay waste to the place if I don't get my father back. I'm sorry Sam, normally I'd go with your idea on this but for eleven years now that woman has known what happened to my father and out of pure spite kept that information from mum. We gave her the option months ago of working together and she rejected our demands and mentioned nothing of the Time Flower. So, mum, I'll be home around five tomorrow and the day after we will be going on a little trip."

"Good" Delia said seething.

"Please reconsider" Sam said "Ash, you have a bright future ahead of you. Don't destroy it in anger. And Delia, don't go to prison for something that could be avoided."

"Sam" Delia said frankly "I want to thank you for looking after us both over the years. But this is something that will be happening. This doesn't concern you."

"Then I will take my leave" Sam said coldly standing up and shaking his head "you are on your own with this. I want no part in it." Quickly he left as Ash and Delia went over their plans. Ash finished with "Tell Sylveon to begin practicing training regime C, she'll know what it means."

The next day Ash was unbelievably driven during his training. He told his Pokémon what he'd found out from Jessie and James, and they all agreed to help him. Charizard and Pikachu shared a malicious smile when Ash told them.

"Free rein?" Charizard asked Ash.

"Everything except Blast Burn" Ash said seriously as he lifted weights. "But trust me, if this would have been after we won the league then nothing would be restricted."

Nodding Charizard and Pikachu began sparring with each other. Ivysaur, and Wartortle began doing laps and Machoke meditating until Ash put down the weights and they began sparring too. They had long since progressed to full on fights, Machoke was very quick for his species, Ash was still unbeaten, but the progress had been astounding for the quiet fighting type. His stance had long since began to mirror Ash's and while there are always counters to whatever style of fighting you used, he was able to adapt fairly quickly. He had become a counterpuncher rather than an all-out wailer, which suited him more as he could defend and then attack when he found an opening. Ash had told him long ago about his fight with Richard and how he had lost the first fight because he miscalculated a move. So, they trained relentlessly to avoid that scenario from happening again.

"Good session guys" Ash said as they cooled down "we'll rest for a few hours and then challenge the gym. I want to be back in Pallet for early evening. Plus, we have promised Jessie and James to provide a distraction from 12-2. After what they did for me, I owe them, so I want to thank you all in advance for helping me. Let's go eat and rest. Our final hurdle is hours away."

A few hours later Ash made his way across the city to Viridian Gym. Walking up to it he stopped and looked up at the place and found the blueprints did nothing to cover the scale of it. It was huge. Attached to it though was a newly made tower block that stretched up at least eighty feet. Giovanni had told them that he'd wanted this rather than a basement so he could hold seminars on the various floors and not have clashes with other noted celebrities who came in to give talks. The gym by comparison seemed small. Shaking his head he walked through the doors and presented the receptionist with his Pokédex and badge container. She scanned them both to prove authenticity before sending a message to Giovanni. Ash sat down as he waited and went over in his head what he wanted to do. He had decided not to inform Giovanni about Ilene as he didn't want to take the risk that she'd be prepared for their arrival. After a half hours wait the door opened and his uncle came striding forward, dressed immaculately in a business suit with his hair slicked back.

"Well, well" he said "is it really that time already? Have you really gained seven badges?"

"I have" Ash said standing up and shaking his hands "and in a few hours I'll have eight."

"My, my" Giovanni said giving him a searching look "you are confident, let's hope you're not all talk. Come, the final hurdle awaits you."

Nodding to the receptionist Ash followed his Uncle down several twisting corridors until they reached a set of double doors. Rather dramatically Giovanni threw the doors open to reveal a mini arena, complete with stands and a seating area that was gradually filling up.

"I do a lot of show battles to promote the league" Giovanni said answering Ash's unasked question "so, it made sense to make it seem like a league event. When news reached me that you'd beaten Blaine I organised this, not everyone I invited could make it, but I thought this would prepare you for a real live audience. "

Looking around he noticed that several people he had met over the last eight months had taken seats, several gym leaders and Bruno of the elite four took their seats giving him a wave as they did so.

Giovanni walked over to his side of the battlefield and turned to face Ash "Now, have you been told what my motto is?"

"No" Ash replied "I talked with mum about it a few days ago and realised I'd only been told three out of seven because of the circumstances of whatever happened during my battles. I knew Brocks, Lt Surges and Kogas. Cerulean pissed me off, so I left after battering them, Erika really pissed me off claiming Pikachu and I didn't share a closer bond than she did with her Pokémon, we beat her with one move. Richard had only been in place a day when I challenged him, and Blaine didn't tell me. I asked her not to tell me yours, hopefully I'll figure it out."

Up in the stand the various gym leaders Ash mentioned either smiled with pride or looked down with embarrassment as they each remembered their interactions with Ash.

"Very well" Giovanni said smirking "Now I was told that you faced and beat three of Blaine's Elite. I have no idea what he was thinking as we're only sanctioned to let new trainers who are in their first-year face one. However, I was told your Pokémon barely broke a sweat beating him, which is astounding. So, for this fight you'll face two of my Elite. Which ones I use will depend on how I view the battle and whether you're worthy to face my absolute strongest. Time will tell. Referee, if you will."

"This will be a five-on-five Pokémon battle between Gym Leader Giovanni and challenger Ash Ketchum. Substitutions are allowed for both sides; standard move count applies. The winner will be declared as the last trainer with a Pokémon still able to battle."

"Let's go Machoke" Ash said releasing his Pokémon.

"Rhydon, to the battlefield" Giovanni said.

Elsewhere

Jessie and James were watching Ash from up high. As they saw him enter the gym they quickly made their way to the back of the building and entered through a tunnel they had dug weeks ago when Ash first informed them about Meowth. They could have used the blueprints back then to pinpoint where they wanted to come up, but they had got lucky by tunnelling through the sewer system. Quickly climbing the ladder, they walked briskly down a hallway that led to the lift. They decided that the best way of hiding would be in plain sight, their copied key cards gave them access to every floor except Giovanni's office. They couldn't see him keeping Meowth in there, but they knew they may have to break in there should they have no luck anywhere else.

Looking into several rooms they happened upon an empty computer room and on a whim they decided to have a look around. Surprisingly someone had left their scan card still plugged into the computer that was still logged on.

"Do you get the feeling someone is trying to help us?" James asked as he sat down and began typing away.

"I've long since stopped questioning it." Jessie said from over his shoulder "what are you looking for?"

"I'm looking to find Giovanni's Pokémon reports for their check-ups. Gym Leaders are required to have their Pokémon checked out four times a year so if we can find out where that takes place we can head there" James said as he quickly scanned various documents "Aha, according to this he usually keeps his Pokémon on the ground floor at the back of the gym."

"That's very dangerous for us" Jessie said frowning "Ash is having his battle on the other side of that wall."

"True" James said logging off "but Giovanni will need to have six Pokémon on hand with him, so that's six less that we may have to deal with, and I'll take that any day of the week. Come on, he's already likely been battling half an hour. We may only have just over an hour left. We'll check his room first, otherwise escaping will be impossible if we end up there."

Quickly they escaped the room and made their way to the elevator. Clicking the button for the top floor they ascended in silence, nodding briefly to people who got in and out of the lift and listening in to their conversations. They had clearly made the right choices dressing smartly for the heist given that everyone else was dressed in suits. Finally, they were left alone as they headed to the top floor. When it opened, they were incredibly surprised to see a corridor ahead of them that looked vaguely familiar.

"Is it me or does this place seem very familiar to you?" James asked quietly.

"It does" Jessie said confused as she walked past a desk that was unmanned. Finally, they came to a double door "James…are we where I think we are?"

Nodding James pushed open the door and gasped.

Ash

The battle had been raging on now for over an hour and a half. He had lost Machoke, Ivysaur and Wartortle during the course of the battle. Giovanni had lost Rhydon, Dugtrio, Nidoqueen and Nidoking. The Nidoking was incredibly tough to beat but Charizard had finally managed to take it down after a long battle but was very injured in the process. His left wing was torn, and his right arm was hanging limply. Charizard snorted as Nidoking was recalled.

"Congratulations Ash" Giovanni called out "Nidoking is my third strongest of my Elites. Normally beating him would be enough to earn you a badge, and you have more than done enough to earn it. However, I have a question for you. Have you figured out my motto yet?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head looking at Charizard in concern "I haven't."

"You're one step away from success, but that's usually where the path is taken from under your feet" Giovanni said smugly smiling. "I came up with that when I realised that I was the final hurdle for the entry to the Pokémon League. There are of course several other gyms that give out badges but for those doing the gym challenge correctly I am the last stop. You have done amazingly well to get this far, very few people manage it on their first go. In fact, only three people in the last ten years have managed to beat me and my Pokémon on their first try. So now we come to it, the final Pokémon, for me that is. I have been given clearance to use this Pokémon because its pre-evolutions are Ground type. Let's go my friend."

Ash took a step back as Giovanni threw the pokeball and on the field landed a huge, spiked dinosaur Pokémon. Pointing Dexter he bleeped.

"Tyranitar, Pokedex Number 248, The Armor Pokémon and the evolved form of Pupitar. Tyranitar is so overwhelmingly powerful, it can bring down a whole mountain to make its nest. This Pokémon wanders about in mountains seeking new opponents to fight."

"Shit" Ash said putting his thoughts into a very accurate phrase. "Charizard, do your best, you're naturally weak to this Pokémon so do not feel bad should you lose. Just do your best and Pikachu will finish it off."

"I admire your confidence Ash but not even your Pikachu will win here." Giovanni said "Rock Slide Tyranitar"

"Protect" Ash shouted using his fourth move for Charizard. He was now locked in for this battle. Ten minutes later Charizard was on his last legs trying valiantly to stay awake. Across from him the Tyranitar was sporting a few scuff marks but otherwise still very mobile. At the minute it was still recovering from the huge Hyper Beam that was sent his way. Charizard knew he had lost this fight, but he could take solace in knowing he could help take down a Pokémon he was weak to. He looked over at Ash who was looking at him in concern and nodded. Focusing on his opponent he focused his mind, and he began to glow red as flames danced all over his body. Roaring defiantly, he took off into the air and wobbled, cursing his ripped wing he centered himself and charged at the Tyranitar who was rooted to the spot and took the Flare Blitz head on being sent crashing backwards in a cloud of dust.

Anxiously Ash waited for the dust to settle but his aura ability had already told him what had happened. It was one final desperate act from a defiant Charizard. When the dust cleared Tyranitar was back on its feet sporting a huge scorch mark on its chest, Charizard was out cold and bleeding from the snout. Raising his pokeball he recalled Charizard.

"It's all on you now Pi" Ash said as Pikachu jumped down onto the battlefield and set himself.

"All moves are available" Giovanni said smiling "our last battle should be a memorable one, so no limits."

"Ok" Ash said "I'm fine with that."

"Tyranitar" Giovanni shouted "Rock Slide."

"Agility" Ash said calmly. He could see several outcomes for this fight, he just didn't know which one he'd choose yet.

Pikachu easily dodged and made his way through the rocks all the while circling the battlefield waiting for Ash to decide on a strategy. Pikachu himself knew which one he'd choose. "Charge" he heard and smiled. Yup, it was the one he was thinking of. Pikachu became a bright yellow light as he ran around the field dodging various attacks that Tyranitar fired at him. "Electro Sphere" that was different Pikachu thought but nevertheless in between dodges he fired off several yellow spheres at the Tyranitar. Normally they'd do nothing to a rock type, but Pikachu wasn't the average electric type. While his abilities had plateaued a long time ago his electrical power had steadily increased. Lt Surges advice had helped immensely with his training, and he'd discovered new and various ways of accessing every little bit of electrical output he had. The Electro Spheres made a huge impact on Tyranitar who was driven back with each one, roaring in anger and pain. He'd never experienced electrocution before and he quickly found he didn't like it.

"Iron Head" Giovanni shouted. Despite being peppered with attacks Tyranitar managed to set itself before it charged forward at the little mouse who was sent flying from the attack. Amazingly the Pikachu managed to right itself almost straight away.

"What?" Giovanni shouted in surprise. Tyranitar's attack power was usually incredible.

"Thunderbolt" Ash shouted to Pikachu who lit the Tyranitar up causing it to roar in more pain. Pain and anger were quickly taking over its mind, there was no chance he was going to be beaten by a mouse and soon it began thrashing around, using every move it knew. In its anger though it didn't realise that not one attack hit and soon enough it was down to one knee panting. It looked up in time to take an Iron Tail to the chin which sent it flying backwards across the battlefield. Wearily it began to climb to its feet. Looking over at his opponent it noticed that it barely looked hurt.

"How?" it roared

"You made a huge mistake" Ash shouted surprising it "you let your anger and arrogance take over and forgot the basics of how the battle started. Pikachu was already faster than you to start with. Agility heightened that speed and every move you used was a ranged attack, all except the Earthquake which he rode out. This battle was over with before it began thanks to Charizards efforts, Pikachu is the one that will finish off in true teamwork fashion. Look at your chest plate."

Giovanni who had been silent throughout Ash's speech looked at his wounded Tyranitar and noticed something he should have seen twenty minutes ago. Tyranitar had a burn across its chest plate. No wonder Iron Head didn't do the damage it should have done.

"Pikachu, end this" Ash said, "Volt Tackle."

"Do not let it hit" Giovanni shouted, "move out of the way." Tyranitar tried its best, but it was very weary from all the attacks it had used, couple that with Pikachu already being faster and he knew what was coming. On top of that Pikachu had been charging while it dodged the attacks and the inevitable happened. Tyranitar took the attack straight to the face and was knocked clean out and sent flying across the battlefield where it came to a halt against the wall of the arena.

"Tyranitar is unable to battle" the referee said, "Pikachu and Ash Ketchum wins the match."

Applause startled both Giovanni and Ash out of their thoughtfulness. They had both completely forgot this was being watched and had been utterly focused on the match. Giovanni recalled his knocked-out Pokémon and walked across the battlefield where Ash met him.

"I am so proud to be able to hand this badge out" Giovanni said giving Ash a badge shaped like a leaf "I present to you the Earth Badge. With it you have proven you have what it takes to be able to compete at the Pokémon League. Also take this. It is TM 27. The move is Fissure. Brock already gave you the Earthquake TM. This move is a lot more powerful however it is highly inaccurate. When it does hit it guarantees a one hit knock out."

"Thanks Giovanni" Ash said pocketing both items "next stop, training, then the league."

"Good to see you have your priorities straight. You have just under three months until the league starts atop the Indigo Plateau. You are required to be there at least two days before the event starts for registration. Should you miss it you will not be able to compete until next year. You're a very punctual kid so make sure you don't miss the cut-off date." Giovanni said before getting a confused face as his Pokégear went off in his pocket. Usually, he'd have it on silent for a match but he must have forgotten. "Hello, Giovanni speaking. What? When? Do we know who? Then find out who!" he hung up looking incredibly angry. "My apologies, someone has broken into my office and then my training facility while we battled. I must go."

"Do you need help?" Ash asked looking concerned.

"No" Giovanni said curtly "I shall deal with it myself. Great battle Ash. I shall be rooting for you at the league." Giovanni quickly strode away through a door opposite where they came in. Ash hoped Team Rocket had managed to escape. He couldn't dwell on those thoughts as people from the stands had made their way onto the field to congratulate him. It took over twenty minutes before he could escape.

"Look, I really need to get my Pokémon to the centre to be healed. I have plans with my mum over the next few days so I need to get home as soon as I can." Ash said having finally had enough "I'm sure I will see you all again at some point."

"I'll walk with you" Lt Surge said, "there's something we need to talk about anyway."

Confused Ash nodded and they left the building, going back through the many passageways and finally they hit the street outside. Something though told Ash to look upwards and as he did he could have sworn he saw a purple streak race across the sky. Narrowing his eyes, he contemplated what that could be but the walk to the centre was nice for Ash. He felt a little overwhelmed by being swarmed and he still wasn't used to so much contact from people. He tolerated very few people touching him at the best of times. Walking into the centre he handed his Pokémon over to Joy and sat in the waiting room with Lt Surge as they chatted aimlessly about how best to get as much electrical power efficiently out of a Pokémon as possible.

"Your tips have greatly helped Pikachu" Ash said "his abilities levelled out a long time ago, but his power is still increasing bit by bit. His dream of rock types fearing him has borne fruit today."

"It certainly has" Lt Surge said laughing a big booming laugh "Raichu will be jealous. Anyway, the reason I came with you is to hand you this." Ash reached out and grabbed an envelope. Opening it he was initially confused.

"Elesa is having a party to celebrate her first successful modelling gig in Unova. It's taking place in a few weeks at my gym. We'd love for you to join us. You can also bring a guest" Lt Surge said.

Ash was conflicted. He had plans to be on Mt Silver by that time. "I'll get back to you on this Lt Surge." Ash said.

"Frank, when were alone" Lt Surge said interrupting him.

"Frank" Ash amended "I had plans to isolate myself for the next few months to train for the league. I need to pick up my authorisation card from Professor Oak first, but I planned to be on Mt Silver by the end of the week."

"Well, the invitation is still being given" Frank said clapping him on the shoulder "just think about it."

"I will" Ash said putting the card away into his bag. Hearing his name being shouted by Joy he walked over. "they're all fine except Charizard. His wing was ripped but it should be fine as long as he doesn't fly for today. Spray this on it every few hours and he should be fine by the morning." Joy said handing him a potion bottle. Taking a sniff Ash frowned as he couldn't put his finger on what it contained. Laughing Joy told him it was her own blend of Full Restores combined with some vitamins so thanking her Ash put the bottle in his bag. Frank shook his hand and said goodbye as Ash walked up to his room. Phoning his mum, he explained what had gone on in the gym and the problem with Charizard.

"I'll drive to Viridian" she said, "I'll leave the car at the gym overnight before we head to Mt Moon, I'm sure Giovanni won't mind."

"Ah well someone apparently broke into his gym while we were battling. He was furious when he left." Ash said.

"I'll send him a message then. That way I don't disturb him and he's aware." Delia said "I'll be at the centre by early evening. See you later Ash."

Delia arrived safely and they spent the evening catching up on the last few days events and discussed tomorrows plans. The next day Charizard was fully healed, and they were ready to go. They drove in silence for the next few hours as each of them went over in their mind what they planned to say. They arrived at Mt Moon after passing through Pewter City nearly five pm that evening. Parking up they had a light meal in the centres canteen before they walked outside.

"Charizard" Ash said releasing his fire type "we plan on making an entrance. Rota is about six miles that way so can you drop us off directly in the palace courtyard please. We wouldn't want Ilene to think we aren't polite".

Snorting he lowered himself and Delia and Ash climbed on "It's been a while since I've done this Ash. Don't go too fast."

"Charizard is perfectly safe mum, let's go pal" Ash said as Charizard took off into the air and headed for Cameran Palace. When they were about a mile away Ash decided to let loose his Aura. Ash often forgot how powerful he actually was due to having his full aura leashed most of the time. He trained with it, used it at all times to be aware of his surroundings but he still hadn't ever let it loose like this. Charizard had to shake his head to recover as he stumbled slightly in the air while his mum groaned at how strongly his aura resonated with hers. He was her son after all, but it had been a long time since Aura was used around her in such quantities.

"They all should have felt that" Ash said smirking "let's see the bastards scurry around now wondering what's happening."

Inside the palace Ilene was having her tea with several dignitaries when at the side of her Lucario collapsed onto its knees as did every other Lucario stationed around the main hall. A few minutes later after they had managed to stand back up, they all as one ran to face the door getting into a defensive stance. Ilene immediately knew what was happening, they were about to be attacked.

After a few tense minutes Ilene heard a scuffle outside her door as two sets of footsteps could clearly be heard walking down the corridor. Absolute silence could be heard from everyone in the hall as they were all utterly terrified.

Suddenly another aura wave passed through the doors and several aura guardians who were seated passed out as their noses started bleeding. Riley, her right hand grasped his head screaming in pain. Wondering what was going on Ilene stood up but immediately was blasted back into her seat as a huge shockwave smashed open the doors to the palace and her guards were all sent flying. Looking up she was astonished to find it was Ash Ketchum and his mother standing in the doorway. Confused as to what was going on she tried to speak but found her voice had gone missing.

Sidestepping around Ash Delia took no notice of the terrified members of Ilene's household, nor Riley who was still clutching his head in pain. Instead, she walked right up to Ilene, grabbed her by the hair causing her to cry out in pain and forced to her her knees. Forcing her to look at Delia she wondered what was happening.

"I will ask you this once and once only Ilene" Delia said growling "where the fuck have you put my husband?"

Chapter 31: Chapter 31

Chapter Text

Chapter 31- Flowers can be very deceiving.

Lance and the Elite Four were sitting around a table in Goodshows office with Blue and Charles discussing the upcoming Indigo League Tournament. They were sifting through documents detailing the challengers who were due to participate in the event when all of them suffered the most severe headache they had ever received. After several minutes they had managed to recover when another spike lanced through their heads. It took them at least ten minutes for them all to recover and just when they thought they were ok Blues Pokégear went off making them all jump in surprise.

"Hello dad" Blue said "did you feel that too? What do you mean it was Ash? What do you mean Ilene has Red? You're not making any sense Dad so calm down and explain."

The others looked on in concern, Charles looked intrigued as he had no idea who this Ash was. The name was familiar though, but he couldn't recall where he heard the name from. He simply had to wait for the call to end. Blues demeanour though was very concerning as he was getting steadily horrified as the call went on.

"I'll head there now" Blue said hanging up and standing up. Turning to the rest he said "Ash Ketchum has lay siege to Rota. Ilene has Red."

"What?" Charles said standing up "who the hell is Ash Ketchum, and why has he attacked Rota?"

"Ash is Red's son" Lorelei said also standing up.

"Champion Red?" Charles asked confused "I've not heard that name for over a decade now. I wonder what became of him."

Looks of concern came over every member of the Elite Four at the statement.

"Charles" Agatha said slowly "he died in the explosion to Viridian Gym remember? He was fighting the Rocket Boss and died when the building collapsed."

Waving his hand in dismissal Charles said "no he didn't. I distinctly remember him coming to me saying he needed time off to be with his family just before that happened."

"Charles" Blue said "we held a funeral for him here at the Plateau. You were there too, remember?"

"Yes" Charles said "I remember. It wasn't a funeral though; it was a celebration for Red where I unveiled his statue that was to be placed in the hall of Champions."

"No, it wasn't" Blue said angrily "It was a funeral. We were all there and we all were a part of it. Delia and her newborn son Ash were there too. It was clearly a funeral and we are still feeling his loss. What are you playing at?"

"My faculties are still all here, thank you very much" Charles said angrily looking around at the concerned faces "I know what I presided over. It was part of Reds plan after all."

"Reds plan?" Lorelei asked, "what plan?"

"The plan to root out Team Rockets leader" Charles said shocking them all "Red knew that he had to hunt him down. He was the one to suggest Blue as his replacement, which has worked out well for all involved."

"Red abandoned his family?" Blue asked shocked.

"No" Charles said "at least not to my knowledge. I've not heard from him since that time though and I do wonder from time to time where he is."

"So why would Ash attack Ilene?" Agatha asked.

"The time flower" Bruno said as recognition dawned on his face "I went rooting around trying to find out information on his disappearance. And the only item left behind at Viridian Gym apart from his cap was a strange crystal looking thing that was quickly taken out of police storage and relocated somewhere else. There was no name attached to the forms to release it either."

"Why were you rooting around?" Charles asked furiously "you knew that you were not allowed to do so, all of you signed that contract."

"And not one of us are able to recall why, nor can we recall what we signed" Agatha said acerbically "can you?"

"Of course," Charles said still looking angry "we all signed an NDA disclosing what happened at Cinnabar Island and Viridian Gym."

"And none of us know what happened at Viridian Gym" Blue said still angry "so why don't you enlighten us."

After a minute of thinking Charles said "you know, I can't seem to remember. How very strange."

"Convenient you mean" Blue said "get the folder out. I think it's time we all read what we signed, don't you."

Confused Charles stood up and went to a panel on the wall. Scanning his hand and eye on a panel a doorway opened behind the wall and he walked inside. They could hear him muttering as he looked in various cabinets. Finally, though he came out with a very thin manilla folder and placed it on his desk. Putting his glasses on he opened it, and they were all shocked to see instead of various reports there was a single piece of paper. Reading it aloud Charles became very angry.

"Dear Elite Four and friends

I'm sure you were all expecting to see a piece of paper in the folder informing you just what you signed. I have to say the NDA was a stroke of genius on Charles' part as I've been able to live my life very comfortably these past years because of it. I knew someday though that the game would be up, and I would be on the run again, this time chased by everyone in Kanto. Which is why I'm not in Kanto. I am however putting plans in place that will keep you guessing for hopefully years to come. Reds disappearance could not have come at a more convenient time, for me anyway. His death was needed. He was far too meddling and honourable to appreciate what I accomplished. I just wish I could have been the one to do the act. Sadly, I was locked up at the time but it was a minor inconvenience. One that was rectified not long afterwards.

I'm sure you were all wondering just why you are unable to recall what happened, or what you signed. That was by design. Did you really think I wouldn't put a failsafe in every single one of my creations? Mewtwo is a work of art, one whom I alone control and when it is time to come out of the shadows then I will do so. Until then keep floundering away. I will watch on with amusing interest.

Until that time my friends.

H. J. Fuji

"Fuji?" Agatha said, "that man is behind all of this?"

"No" Charles said "he's the right-hand man of the Rocket Boss. But Hanori seems to be the brains behind a lot of this, especially Team Rockets more disgusting inventions. And if he's in control of Mewtwo then he's in control of a very powerful psychic Pokémon that has the ability to teleport great distances and apparently manipulate minds. I suspect Mewtwo was the one to help Boss Rocket escape Viridian Gym."

"None of this explains where Red has gone though" Blue said, "he gave you no indication where he was going?"

"No" Charles said "I went ahead with the plan to unveil his statue and promote you to the Champion position because Red wanted it. I thought he was missing from the event because he was busy or had found a lead. You all knew how flighty the boy was, I thought this was more of the same. The original question stands though, why would Reds son attack the Queen of Rota."

"Reds disappearance was a strange one" Bruno said "as I said I felt compelled to help Ash and Delia to find out what happened to Red, we all share some of the blame for keeping her in the dark for over ten years. Ash found out a lot of information on his own pieced together from articles he found online or in various places he's visited. He suspects you are hiding the murderer or information about what happened at Viridian Gym and is determined to unveil it all to the public. If I were you, I'd release that statement to the press or Ash himself before he becomes Champion, because believe me he will do so."

"He still has to beat all of you" Charles said looking worried.

"He'll beat us" Agatha said firmly "he's already cleared the gym challenge in record time despite taking a month off to spend time with Delia and then a month recovering after Porta Vista. The last two battles he has had he's beaten Blaines Elites without knowing and faced Giovannis Elites too and won. He's heavy favourite to win the league this year."

"Getting back to my point" Bruno said "when I went searching for information, I came across a curious report about what was recovered from the gym. The officer at the time reported a 'strange crystal' being boxed and processed. This crystal was then taken out of storage a few weeks later and it disappeared. I told Ash this and he confirmed it was a Time Flower. Something that Rota and its Queendom know all about."

"My dad told me he was recently given some information that Ilene is in possession of the Time Flower and has kept it a secret for over ten years." Blue said "Delia and Ilene already cannot bear to be in the same room as each other due to Ilene trying to claim Red for herself despite knowing Aura Guardians marry for life. On top of that she had her right-hand man Sir Riley attack Ash when he was six to see if he had Aura, another way to try and claim a Ketchum."

"Because of Queen Rin and Aaron Ketchums affair, I suspect" Charles said leaning back and shocking them all "don't look so surprised. I've known all about Rins secret for years now. It's not exactly a secret really either. It's very well documented if you know where to look. So, she tried to claim Ash too then?"

"Yes" Blue said "only it didn't work. Delia sued Rota and won and Delia taught Ash about aura while as compensation guardians from Rota trained him. Ash is more powerful than any guardian has ever been, which was another sore point for Ilene. Her ancestors have long wanted a Ketchum to infuse aura with into their bloodlines, and if they couldn't do that, they tried to make them subservient to the reigning Queen. She enslaved Red under the guise of Aura Guardian and tried to keep him and Delia apart. It obviously didn't work but the resentment from Delia stayed and was passed on to Ash. He refused to become a guardian, much to the anger of Rota and has actively fought against Ilene and her household and there is nothing they could do about it. Ash is too strong to confront directly."

"And now he has attacked Rota?" Charles asked.

"Yes" Blue said standing back up releasing his Alakazam "we need to go and stop him from doing too much damage. I seriously doubt any prison we put him in could hold him either. No, we need to do this peacefully. And quickly." Nodding the others all stood up too.

"I would like to come too" Charles said as he pocketed the paper from before and walked over to the wall where he closed the door. "I would like to explain to Ash and Delia where we messed up."

Nodding to Alakazam there was a bright purple flash, and the room was suddenly emptied.

Elsewhere

The amount of Aura expelled from Ash was felt across Kanto. Several Legendaries nearly fell out of the sky as they felt the Chosen Ones anger. The Lords and Ladies of their species immediately halted what they were doing and headed as quickly as they could to where the spike was felt. The second spike just made the need more urgent.

They were all very concerned as something like this hadn't been felt in well over a decade. And before that it had been centuries. That had resulted in the Aura Wars.

Mewtwo was putting the finishing touches in his laboratory when he felt the spike. Looking up he grinned. It seemed the games were about to begin. Sending out a mental message he finished what he was doing and contemplated viewing what was going on. Deciding against it he continued finishing his project. He could not allow anything to deter him from his goal. He had already taken care of the other Mewtwo. He was far superior and the scum who had tried to create a new one was quickly dissuaded from trying again, they were now a part of his staff creating the same machines on his island. He was unique.

He did wonder what happened to the Mew that was being used to create a copy of himself. All anyone could tell him, despite hours of torture was that it had been moved to a different facility and that it was doubtful it would survive that journey. He did wonder if he should feel empathy for his 'sister' but decided that as he didn't know her then he didn't care. Plus, Arceus should have intervened if she wanted her saving. It was yet another point against the supposed Deity. Soon humankind would feel his wrath, and any Pokémon that helped would be eradicated too. He grinned as his loyal Dragonite landed behind him.

Ash

It had been a long time since he was allowed to release his Aura out the way he was doing now. It felt so freeing. He had been purposely keeping it reined in for years now, to keep Ilene from knowing how strong he actually was. Landing in the courtyard he released his Pokémon and told them his plan. He kept Bagon in her ball as she was a liability at the minute as she was untrained and would stand no chance against rotas guardians. His Pokémon and himself had made quick work of the guardians who had been patrolling. He didn't know that his aura being unrestrained was having a negative effect on anyone inside the palace, all he knew as he marched towards the ornate double doors was that he was still unchallenged. They came to the hallway leading to the banquet hall and saw a lone Lucario standing at the door barely able to stand guard.

"Stand aside Lucario" Ash said quietly "I have no quarrel with you."

"You are a threat to our Queen" Lucario said rushing forward with a Bone Club ready. Pikachu immediately rushed forward with an Iron Tail and deflected it before Ash fought it. The poor Pokémon had no chance against the two and was quickly defeated.

"Charizard, Ivysaur and Wartortle. I want you three to guard the hallway. No one passes, any force necessary guys, Charizard you're still on Blast Burn restriction. Machoke with me please."

Standing facing the double door he could feel a mass of Aura congregating together on the opposite side of the door.

"Mum" Ash said as he began to gather his hand together creating a ball of Aura "please stand behind me." Soon enough the ball became the size of Ash himself and with a roar he launched it at the doors which quickly became splintered wood. The impact blew them clear off their hinges while the Aura Sphere rushed forward taking out the assembled group of Lucario. Stepping over their unconscious bodies Ash took in what was in front of him. Riley and several aura guardians seemed to be in acute pain holding their heads, several dignitaries were quite clearly frightened, and Ilene was terrified. He felt his mum move around him and watched on in amusement as she grabbed Ilene by the hair and threw her to the ground.

"I will ask you this once and once only Ilene" Delia said growling kneeling down to face her "where the fuck have you put my husband?"

"I don't know what you're on about" Ilene said clearly distressed before crying out in pain as Delia grabbed her hair and yanked it before delivering a vicious slap to Ilene's face.

"I will ask again" Delia said grabbing her by her hair "and I better not have to ask a third time. Where is my husband?"

"I don't know" Ilene screamed in agony as Delia threw her down and kicked her in the ribs.

"You are the one who stole his time flower" Delia shouted grabbing her again "now, you're really trying my patience here Ilene. This will be the last time I will ask you and there will not be another. Where is my husband's Time Flower?"

Ash watched on amazed at how vicious his mum was being. Clearly, she also had some pent-up anger against Ilene which was very justified as far as he was concerned.

"I don't have it" Ilene said crying "I don't have it."

"Right" Delia said standing up and dragging her by the hair out of the doorway "Ash, I'm borrowing Charizard for a few minutes. I'll be back soon." Curious Ash took one last glance around and noticed Riley was starting to come to. Before he could Ash delivered an Aura infused punch and knocked him out which felt so satisfying. He quickly followed his mum who had just finished explaining what she was doing to an amused Charizard. He followed them out into the courtyard and was amazed when Delia climbed onto Charizard, who had grabbed Ilene and they took off into the air.

Several pops gained Ash notice. His Pokémon immediately tensed up expecting a fight. Ash knew who it was instantly.

"What are you doing here Blue?" Ash asked, "let me guess, Sam rang you."

"Yes" Blue said walking forward followed by his fellow Elites and stopping ten feet away. "He expressed concern for you and your mum about some information you received."

"Yes" Ash said looking up "we're about to get some more information any second now. I'd advise you to move as you're all in the splash zone."

"What splash zone?" Charles asked as they all looked up "and who are we looking at?"

"Oh" Ash said casually "that's my Charizard with my mum. In his hands is Ilene. I fear if she doesn't tell my mum soon where she has hidden my father Rota will be having to find a new Queen."

"That's Ilene?" Lorelei asked shocked "why is she up there?"

"Well soon she'll be down here" Ash said smiling "all she needs to do is tell us where my dad is. It's not difficult."

"We'll have you for murder boy" Charles said furious.

"No, you won't" Ash said laughing "accidents happen all the time. You have no proof she didn't want to go for a ride with mum and Charizard and if she happens to fall then who can say it wasn't an accident?"

"You have just told us" Charles said blustering.

"Hearsay" Ash said smirking before coldly commenting "you're lucky I don't ask Charizard to do the same to you given your part in my father's disappearance."

"Charles didn't know" Bruno said looking at Ash "we were all duped."

"A likely story" Ash said shaking his head and looking back up to the sky "and I suppose he said that his mind has been wiped too?"

"It has Ash" Bruno said, "all of us have been played by Fuji."

Before anyone could say anything Charizard landed with a sobbing Ilene and a driven looking Delia.

"Reds time flower is hidden behind a panel in her room. Come on. I want my husband back." Delia said.

"You will be going nowhere" Charles said firmly "we will be arresting you for what you've done here. Blue, Elite four arrest them that's an order."

Before anyone could move though several screeches could be heard from above. Everyone looked on in amazement as three Legendary birds landed in the courtyard.

"Chosen One" Zapdos said telepathically so everyone could hear them "what ails you?"

"This woman has known what has happened to my father for over ten years now and said nothing" Ash said pointing to Ilene. "we're here to retrieve his Time Flower to find out what happened the day he disappeared. These five have just been ordered to arrest us to stop that happening."

Immediately the three birds looked sharply at the five in question. "That will not be happening. Go and find your father while we have a nice chat with these five" Moltres said hopping forwards and towering over them. She was quickly backed by Articuno and Zapdos who did the same blocking off their vision.

Nodding Ash and Delia entered the palace and made their way to Ilenes room. She had given Delia detailed information about where her room was and how to access it. So, Ash followed his mother's directions and soon enough they were at a very ornate door. Opening it he let his mum lead the way over to a bookcase, she removed a few books to find a panel with a strange slot on it. Opening her hand Ash was surprised to see a ring in her palm. Delia placed it into a slot on a panel and the bookcase moved sideways. Both of them took a deep breath and entered the hidden room where they were amazed to find many chests lining one side of the wall, the back end was full of cubbyholes with various scrolls in them and the last side was filled with mannequins with various dresses and staffs and swords. Ash walked over to one of them as he felt a distinct pull coming from a staff that was part of an Aura Guardians outfit. As he was about to take hold of it, he was distracted by his mum calling his name. Coming to himself he gave the staff one last look before heading over to a chest that his mum had opened. As he stood beside her he took a look inside and felt himself gasp. There on a cushion was a Time Flower.

"I can't grab it mum, it'll activate" Ash said, "You'll have to pick it up."

Nodding Delia took out a cloth she had brought from home and carefully wrapped the Time Flower in it and placed it in her bag. As she turned to leave, she noticed Ash still being distracted by the staff.

"What's wrong Ash?" Delia asked, "since we entered here you've not been able to take your eyes off that staff."

"I'm not sure mum" Ash said as they both walked over "but for some reason my aura is pulling on the staff, in particular the gemstone on top."

Before Ash could say anything, Delia grabbed it and walked out of the door. She pulled the ring out of the panel and watched as the bookcase slid back into place. Ash quickly followed her back outside where a very scared Ilene was hiding behind the Elite Four as Lorelei tried to tend to her. Riley was there too holding onto his head where a bruise had quickly formed.

The legendary birds noticed Ash and Delia walk back out and moved aside as they walked towards the gathered group. Evidently the guests Ilene had been entertaining didn't want to stay inside the palace and had made their way outside to be with their Queen.

"We have the Time Flower" Delia said as she crouched down beside a clearly terrified Queen "for over eleven years you have known about the last moments of my husband and never said a word. During our negotiations a few months ago, you never once mentioned that you had his time flower. Out of pure spite you let Ash and I suffer just because you wanted my husband for yourself. What I did to you, you fully deserved. You're lucky that I didn't kill you for what you've pulled."

"You're going to be arrested" Riley said walking forward "you attacked our Queen!" Many approving voices from the crowd shouted their agreement. That was until Ash glared at them as he moved in front of his mum facing Riley.

"Nothing will happen to them" Blue said walking forward "As Champion I declare this need to know only. Ilene has disgraced her office with what she has done. How long do you think she'll still be Queen for when the public finds out she could be complicit in the death of the last Pokémon Master? Because believe me, should Ash and Delia be silenced I won't be." Turning to Delia and Ash he continued "as for you two you will pay for the refurbishment of everything you have destroyed today. Before you say anything just know that while I agree getting Reds Time Flower back was necessary, the way you went about it was very wrong. My father is in some distress at home because of your actions."

"Your father has nothing to do with this Blue" Ash said "but we will apologise. As for your terms I accept. Just send me a bill."

"We do not accept" Riley said furiously pointing at Ash "you attacked our Queen! That cannot go unpunished! A fine is a slap on the hand."

"Riley" Ilene said in a quiet voice "we accept the terms." Riley spluttered with outrage as did the crowd around her, but their Queen had spoken. Standing up she walked towards Delia who took a defensive stance and glared at her. "As for me I can only apologise for my actions. I admit I wanted a piece of Red with me, I was devastated at his death. I have loved him since I first met him. But he belonged to another, and I resented that. When I found out he left a Time Flower from an agent we had in place in the police department I knew that it needed to be here. If it comforts you any, I was never able to activate it, nor can any of the guardians here."

"It does" Delia said glaring at her "we accept Blues terms. I hope we never meet again Ilene."

"You're not going anywhere with Sir Aarons staff" Riley said walking forwards "that does not belong to you. It is an heirloom of Rota."

"So that's why you are drawn to it" Delia said looking at Ash "your aura is resonating with it because he's your ancestor, and this was his staff."

"It resonates with you?" Riley said looking confused.

"Yes" Ash said walking forwards to his mum "the gemstone in particular is calling out to me; I have no idea why though."

"Usually when that happens it's because of a message has been placed inside the gemstone" Riley said looking at Ilene "but this staff was found outside the Tree of Beginning. Who would he be leaving a message to?"

"Only one way to find out" Delia said handing the staff to Ash. As soon as he touched it the world turned blue to everyone who were briefly blinded by a flashing light. Everyone took a step back as in front of them the light grew bigger. Eventually it died down and in front of them a Lucario had appeared.

Gasping it took a breath and pulsed its aura out in order to centre itself. After a minute Ash felt the aura retreat back into the Lucario. As it stood up it looked around and its gaze came to rest on Ash. Ash could see the moment fury had taken over the Lucarios mind and immediately he shifted into a defensive stance. It was very necessary as without warning Lucario launched himself at Ash and attacked him. Ash let his aura flow and take over him as for the next few minutes he countered everything Lucario attacked him with. Ash knew he could have ended this fight whenever he wanted to but as it was a new opponent, with a much different fighting style than the rest of the Rota Lucario he found himself enjoying the fight. It was when an Aura Sphere launched at him that nearly hit his mother that Ashs demeanour changed, and he started to viciously fight the Lucario who was incredibly surprised to find itself on the back foot. Soon enough it had lost when Ash caught his legs with a sweep and was placed into an arm bar/choke hold. Lucario knew it was beaten but it was still furious. He was also helpless though and stopped moving. As soon as he was released, he tried to get up but a foot on his chest stopped him.

"I have no idea why you attacked me Lucario and quite frankly I don't care. You fought well though and I have very little doubt that you would wipe the floor with every guardian here at Rota. I, however, am not your enemy." Ash said removing his foot and holding out a hand.

Lucario took the time that Ash was speaking to centre himself again. When he was let go, he grabbed Ash's hand and got back onto his feet. Looking around he was amazed to find he wasn't in Rota, or certainly not the Rota he remembered.

"What year is it, Sir Aaron?" Lucario asked shocking them all that he could speak human. "And why did you betray me?"

"I am not Aaron" Ash said looking at Lucario who sharply looked back "and it is the year 1999."

"1999" Lucario said shocked "but how?"

"It has something to do with time and years passing by" Ash said sarcastically earning a snort and a mild glare from Lucario.

"You have some nerve Sir Aaron belittling me" Lucario said.

"I am not Sir Aaron" Ash repeated "I am his descendant. My name is Ash."

Looking around at the assembled party he stopped when he saw a beaten-up Ilene. Rushing over to her he said "Queen Rin? Who did this to you?"

"I am not Rin, Lucario" Ilene said smiling sadly "I am her descendent, Ilene. You mentioned Sir Aaron. Was he the one to seal you in the staff?"

"Yes" Lucario growled "the coward abandoned the Queen, fled the war and sealed me in the staff before I could stop him."

"That makes no sense" Riley said "we found his staff outside the Tree of Beginning. There was clear evidence that he went inside but we could not gain access to it."

"The coward fled the war" Lucario said "he was angry his child had been taken from him, so he decided to go and be with her rather than do his duty and protect Rota."

"That's not possible" Ilene said shocked "the accounts from Queen Rin say he did something at the Tree of Beginning that stopped the war, disappearing at the same time. His actions are what led Malokei to flee from the battle."

"So, it's true" Delia said after a minute's silence where people gathered their thoughts "Riley and Rin did have a secret child. One that eventually led to my husband Red and Ash."

"So, it would seem" Lucario said looking at Ash "how does it feel knowing your ancestor was a coward?"

"It doesn't bother me" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "his actions were his own, I am not accountable for anything other people did and as it was nearly a millennia ago you have no way of proving he was a coward."

"Then I will find proof" Lucario said as he drew himself up. Looking at Riley he said "if he went inside the Tree of Beginning then I will find a way inside and locate his body. If his body isn't there, then that should be proof that he fled. Agreed?"

"Agreed" Riley said smirking at Ash.

"You forget Riley" Ash said, "no matter how much you want this to be true I am still more powerful an aura user than you will ever be." Looking at Lucario he said "I will go with you. I want absolute proof before you cast aspersions on my family name."

"Very well" Lucario said.

Turning to his mum Ash said "Go home. I'll be there as soon as I can. I'll phone you when I'm done with this situation. Frankly I don't care about Aaron, but I know Dad would."

"Actually, we would all like to know what happened to Red" Charles said "I've kept out of this so far as we found some information that you and your mother needed to know this morning. We have all been duped by someone we had no idea had the capability to do so. Your mum will be well looked after at the Plateau, I give you my word."

"Mum" Ash said "it's up to you. They can't force you."

"I'll go with them" Delia said, "we need information still and this time flower might be what we're looking for."

Nodding Ash hugged her before turning to Lucario. "Want me to meet you there?"

"How are you getting there?" he asked in reply.

"I planned on flying on Charizard" Ash said "I want to get this over with. And it's very late at night. I planned on camping outside the tree tonight and heading inside in the morning."

"I shall meet you there then" Lucario said as he took off running in the direction of the tree.

"I'll take the staff with me. It could unlock something in the Tree. I'll bring it back, don't worry" Ash said as the crowd gasped in outrage "I don't need a staff to fight with, and it doesn't mean anything to me."

Ash recalled all his Pokémon that had observed the interaction and kept silent. Everyone except Charizard. He thanked the Legendary birds for their assistance and vowed to repay them at some point before he climbed on Charizard and flew off into the night leaving Blue to transport the Elite Four, Charles, Riley and Ilene with them leaving a crowd to disperse muttering about what had happened.

Charizard quickly overtook Lucario as he didn't have any obstacles in his way and within the hour, he had landed just thirty feet away from the tree. Getting their camp ready was now down to an art and they were all recovering and eating, chatting amongst themselves about what had happened and what they were set to do tomorrow. Before he went to bed, he left some food out for Lucario and went to sleep. A few hours later he felt an aura source get nearer and then stop outside their camp. Knowing Lucario had arrived at their camp Ash fell back asleep.

The next day Ash and his team had a quick light training session to get the blood pumping. Lucario just observed them, quietly impressed at the efficiency they all trained with. Especially Ash fighting hand to hand with Machoke. There wasn't a single movement wasted from either of them and Lucario could see how he had been beaten. Ash was a much better fighter and stronger aura user than Sir Aaron.

"How did you get so strong?" Lucario asked suddenly "Sir Aaron was widely regarded to be the strongest aura user there had ever been at the time and you have surpassed him, seemingly with ease. In fact, he was the leader against the filthy abominations and their leader because they were nearly equals."

"That's quite a long story and starts with Aaron himself" Ash said sitting down and making their food. "Aaron and Rins daughter was taken away in secret for several reasons. The main one was to hide their relationship. Rin was due to be married off, Aaron was her right-hand and they knew that any children they had would be illegitimate, so Helen was taken away for her safety. Aaron threw himself into the war and protecting Rota. Rin married and had her own legitimate family, but the rumours continued. Fast forward half a century and on her death bed Rin expressed her regret for not being able to raise her first born daughter and the shame she felt from her affair with Aaron. Of course, this created rumours and soon enough fear because if Helen came forward, or any progeny she had did then they could have some sort of claim to the throne of Rota however tenuous. So Rins daughter and granddaughter came up with a plan before the rumours could travel fast. They would try and ensnare any Ketchum into becoming their right hand thereby making sure the Ketchum line would die out because they would be constantly kept busy, so busy they hopefully wouldn't be able to have a family and thus end any possibility of a claim on the throne. It didn't work, the rumours became legend and the Ketchum line was never found. For Three hundred years my ancestors remained hidden until one day my many times great grandfather died young leaving his son without any way of teaching him Aura. So, he made his way to the only place he knew of that taught it. Rota.

As you know Aura Guardians mate for life, and my ancestor had already found his mate before he left. Which was very lucky as the Queen at the time fell in love with him. She was furious that she couldn't have him though. He was a peasant, and she was of a higher station, it was forbidden. But she had read the scrolls of her ancestors and knew that this boy could claim the throne if he wanted to. She was also very envious of aura users in general and knew if she had come from the line of Aaron AND Rin then there was a good chance any children she would have could have aura powers. So she decided to try and seduce him. Unfortunately for her he could not be swayed and once his training was up, he went back home to his mate. The Queen of Rota never forgot about what she could have had, and it festered into anger and jealousy. Every Queen since then has been given secret commands to try and make this happen as it would dispel any rumours of Rin having a secret child and Rota would have a Queen who could use Aura.

Now we come to the current Queen, Ilene. History repeated itself, she lusted after my father and hated the fact he had chosen my mother. She sent him on many errands, often as far away as possible from each other hoping that Red Ketchum would forget my mum Delia. He never did and soon I was born. Six months afterwards my father disappeared, something we are trying to uncover the reasons for. Ilene knew that with my dad gone she had no chance of fulfilling her ancestors wishes. She knew I was alive though and sent her right-hand man to keep an eye out for me in case I displayed any aura usage. Sadly for her she quickly became frustrated as I never did and she over-reached. I was attacked by the Aura Guardian you met when I was six. He pretended to try and teach me about Aura and that a way of finding out if I had it was to touch a person and see if it activated."

"That's absurd" Lucario said interrupting, getting up and pacing looking furious "every aura guardian can sense another aura user if they're close enough. Every one. Using the 'sense' is part of the initial training, or at least was when I was around."

"It still is" Ash said nodding "I however had no one to tell me this, I think my mother was secretly hoping Aura would skip me so didn't tell me. I was in a coma for over a week recovering while my aura settled in my body. The reason I am so powerful is because I am one of Arceus' chosen. My body needed to adapt to play my role in saving her world. Riley doing what he did gave her the chance to intervene and give me the gifts I needed without breaking her edicts and from that moment on I used Aura at all times until it became second nature and soon I surpassed every guardian that trained me from Rota. It was part of a deal my mother made as compensation for not suing Ilene personally. For five years I was trained by the Lucario of the kingdom and for the last year of that I was unbeaten, something which remains to this day.

Ilene stole my fathers Time Flower as a way of getting back at my mum eleven years ago. Yesterday we retrieved it and then released you and here we are now. As I told you before I don't particularly care if Sir Aaron did run off to be with his daughter in secret. You can call that cowardice if you like, I don't."

"There was a war on" Lucario said "An Aura Guardians duty comes before family. Always. He taught me this himself. For him to go back on that word, and then seal me away proves he was a hypocrite."

Shrugging his shoulders noncommittally Ash stood and packed up leaving Lucario to go over what Ash had just said.

"You said the Aura Guardian attacked you?" Lucario asked as they walked towards the tree "why wasn't he beheaded as is tradition?"

"It WAS tradition, maybe" Ash said, "but to do so would admit Ilene's guilt and culpability in her actions concerning me."

"It seems Honour no longer means what it once did" Lucario growled causing Ash to laugh.

"I met Ilene for the first time with Riley not far from the palace when I began my journey. I pretty much said the same thing." Ash said laughing.

"What you said was 'Is it honourable to force someone to do something they do not want to do, that you know is wrong simply because your Queen commands it?'" Pikachu said.

"He is correct" Lucario said. The next twenty minutes they walked around the tree in silence as they looked for an opening. They eventually ended up back where they started.

"Didn't the guardian say the staff was found outside around here?" Ash said.

"Indeed" Lucario replied nodding.

Extending his aura Ash was surprised to get a ping back not ten feet away from him. Walking over to a bush he moved the branches to the side and was amazed to see another Time Flower.

"Well, I think we've found where you were left" Ash said as he knelt down with Lucario quickly joining him. "Shall we activate it?" receiving a nod Ash placed an aura infused hand on the Time Flower and it lit up. Immediately their consciousness was transported back nearly 800 years. They watched on as Sir Aaron met up with Lucario and sealed him in the staff before he could react and then fly off on a Pidgeot. Ash was disgusted by the act and said as much.

"You were his friend, he owed you an explanation. I don't care what he went on to do he owed you that much. Sealing you away was cowardly"

"Ash" Pikachu said, "you try that with me, and your unborn descendants will feel the pain" Ash just laughed and scratched him behind the ears.

Walking up to where the entrance used to be Ash extended his aura. Suddenly his aura resonated with the rock formation just in front and a doorway thirty feet high opened up as the rocks parted. As they were about to walk through Ash felt a huge spike in aura from below. Warning Lucario he jumped out of the way as from underneath a huge Pokémon came barrelling out from the ground and launched a huge Hyper Beam at them.

"It's a Regirock!" Ash shouted calling everyone out as he leapt out of the way. "Guys, we need to take it out. Do what you can!"

The next few minutes was a jumbled mess of attacks. The Regirock was clearly very strong, but the numbers game soon caught up with it. In its desperation it launched another huge Hyper Beam at Ash who was grazed as he jumped out of the way. Ivysaur who had seen it happen had already used Sunny Day and used a Solarbeam which hit the Regirock and threw it into the side of the Tree. Amazingly after a minute another Hyper Beam came steaming through the dust. Gathering as much power as it could Ivysaur used another Solarbeam and matched the attack. He could feel though that they were too evenly matched, which while amazing in itself wasn't enough. Making a decision he gritted his teeth and threw off his Everstone. The light blinded everyone involved except Regirock who used the time to try and recover and used another Hyper Beam. From the light stepped Venusaur who roared his name and used the biggest Solarbeam he had ever used. It easily overpowered the Regirock who was at this point very tired from spamming attacks, and it was smashed in the face by the attack. Ash made a decision and threw a Pokéball at the Regirock. The ball began to shake but after a minute it dinged and quieted.

Shaking his head Ash rushed over to Venusaur and hugged him. "I'm so proud of you, you didn't need to do that but thank you Venusaur. It seemed evolution has healed your petals too."

"We don't have time to mess around" Venusaur's deep voice said. "You caught the Regirock?"

"Yeah" Ash said picking up the Pokéball. He took out his Pokédex, clicked a button to suspend the transfer and scanned it

"Regirock, Pokédex Number 377, The Rock Peak Pokémon. This Pokémon is genderless and has the ability Clear Body. Regirock was sealed away by people long ago. If this Pokémon's body is damaged in battle, it is said to seek out suitable rocks on its own to repair itself."

"I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it though as I swore I would never have a Legendary." Ash said.

"It's one of the guardians of this place" Lucario said coming forward looking puzzled. "It attacked because its job is to keep people away from here. They've never been able to be reasoned with either. Only Mew keeps them in line."

"Mew?" Ash asked surprised "there's a Mew here? I forgot about that"

"Yes" Lucario said "or at least there was when I was around here last time."

"In that case I'll release it before we leave." Ash said, "I'd do it now, but I can see it attacking us again."

"A wise decision" Lucario said "why not keep it though? I've never heard of a trainer giving up a Legendary Pokémon before."

Snorting Ash recalled everyone and began walking into the huge canyon that had opened up. "People who use legendaries are crap trainers. They rely purely on the power of the Pokémon and offer very little strategy wise, often just tanking their way through battles. Not only that but Legendaries play a massive part in maintaining the balance of the world. I will not be the one to disturb that balance. If Regirock is here, then it is here for a reason."

"You are remarkably like Sir Aaron" Lucario said momentarily forgetting his anger "he once told me something similar. 'There is no skill in using a Pokémon that is predestined to have enormous power in a battle. It just shows the lack of skill and manners'"

"To quote you, he wasn't wrong" Ash said stopping as they walked out of the canyon onto a cliffside. There before them stood the tree in the distance, all around it various families of Pokémon were milling about, going on with their lives.

"It's not actually a tree" Lucario said as he too took in the scene "it is a gigantic rock structure that resembles a tree because of the various forests surrounding it that look like branches from afar."

Overcoming their awe Ash led them down the slope and into another tunnel. He had underestimated how long the journey was going to be it seemed as it took another twenty minutes before they exited. Before them was several walkways made out of what looked like crystal. The drop though was easily several hundred feet.

"Does something seem odd to you?" Ash asked Pikachu "ever since I set foot in this place something has felt off."

Before he could answer Ash, Pikachu and Lucario witnessed a bridge collapsing of its own accord.

"Something is definitely not right" Ash said as they carefully walked along one of the crystal bridges. "It seems they're crumbling, but how. And more importantly why?"

They walked through tunnel after tunnel and seemed to be heading right down to the heart of the place. As they walked into a spacious cavern Ash decided to have a rest and eat. Releasing everyone he gave them their lunch and they chatted about where they were.

"Ash" Venusaur said ambling over to a wall "this place is dying."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked as he and Lucario walked over.

"The walls are crying" Venusaur said as he felt the wall with his vines "something has happened to disrupt the essence of this place."

Extending his Aura, he understood what Venusaur meant. "It does seem to be dying. I wonder if I could heal it?"

"Not on this scale" Lucario said sharply "only Mew would have the power to do so."

"And she's missing. I can't imagine her leaving here and letting this place die." Pikachu said.

"How do you know she's missing?" Lucario asked.

"As you and Pikachu just said, she's been here for centuries. This is her home. Would you let your home die?" Ash replied

Walking back to the group Ash felt another huge aura spike from a tunnel just off to the left.

"Guys" Ash shouted as he threw an Aura Lance in the direction "Contact"

Immediately they all jumped up and threw attacks in the direction Ash had sent his. Hearing a groan of pain, they carried on. Whatever it was, was tough as from the dust came a Hyper Beam.

"Another one of these things?" Ash said thinking it was another Regirock. It wasn't as through the haze came another golem preparing an Ice Beam. It was a Regice.

"Damn" Ash said sending another Aura Lance which sent it spinning off to the side "Machoke, you're up for this one. Charizard is too cramped in to properly use any fire attacks. We'll distract it, but close quarters combat will be needed."

Machoke decided to skirt around the area waiting for the opportunity to come to him. It did as Pikachu tripped it up with an Iron Tail and he jumped forward and started punching and kicking the Regice into submission. For a good minute he didn't let up hitting it with super effective attacks. Finally, he powered up one last attack and hit Regice with a devastating Cross Chop sending it flying unconscious. Ash threw another Pokéball which shook violently. After several tense minutes it dinged and stopped shaking.

Ash and the gang let out a breath they didn't know they'd been holding. Taking out Dexter again he suspended the transfer system and scanned it

"Regice, Pokédex Number 378, The Iceberg Pokémon. This Pokémon is genderless and has the ability Clear Body. Regice's body was made during an ice age. The deep-frozen body can't be melted, even by fire. This Pokémon controls frigid air of minus 328 degrees F."

"I think it's safe to say that we need to be on the lookout for a Registeel too" Ash said laughing "come on guys. The sooner we get to the heart the sooner we can find out what happened to Aaron and possibly Mew." recalling everyone he packed up and set off again.

For the next hour they steadily followed the tunnel downwards being careful to not touch anything. Finally, they came out into an area with what looked like a huge lake that was full of Pokémon. On the other side of a small bridge lay another tunnel that glowed.

"I think we've found the heart guys" Ash said quietly looking around "there's a huge concentration of Aura on the other side of that bridge that isn't moving. As he set off over it, he felt yet another spike of Aura from below. "Another Regi guys." Ash said releasing everyone and rushing to cross the bridge. Safely reaching the other side their path became blocked off by a Registeel. Strangely enough though it hadn't attacked yet. Wondering what was happening Ash fell to his knees as a wave of pain hit him, causing all his Pokémon to surround him in concern. All the Pokémon that was in the cavern stopped what they were doing and made their way to the Ash but stopped around ten feet away. As one they all looked to the tunnel. Ash struggled with getting to his feet but eventually he managed it. Observing the Pokémon around him Ash became very concerned. Whatever that was came from inside the tunnel. Warily Ash made his way over to the Registeel who silently observed him. Without saying anything it turned and walked off into the tunnel. Ash, Pikachu and Lucario followed silently wondering what was going on. They entered into another cavern that took their breath away. Hundreds of crsytals made up what looked like the inside of a cave, but there in the very middle was a crystal structure that was turning black. Several feet away was another mini crystal structure, just off to the side. Lucario seeing this rushed over and gasped in shock as on top of the crystal lay a pair of very familiar gloves.

"Sir Aarons gloves" Lucario said picking them up "what are they doing here?"

Ash walked over, took them from Lucario and felt the gloves aura focus crystal start to pulse as it resonated with his aura. Glancing down he noticed a Time Flower at the base of the crystals. Kneeling down he placed his hand on it and immediately they were all flooded with Sir Aarons last act. He sacrificed his life and aura to give Mew the ability to quell the fighting that was going on outside. Ash saw armies stop fighting each other as one side of the army collapsed holding their heads while the other side stood tall. He watched on as several people gathered a man who was dressed in royal purple robes and take him away from the battlefield leaving their army behind. Ash recognised him straight away. This was the defeat of Malokei. And Aaron had been the one to stop it. Aarons words at the end made Ash gasp as his echo looked right at him and said "My descendent. This was destined to happen. I was one of Arceus' chosen and I bore the burden quietly until the very end. I found my mate, sadly it was not to be as she was chosen for another. Holding my daughter was the proudest thing I've ever done, letting her go was the hardest. Hopefully one day she'll know my story and forgive me." Closing his eyes he refocused and roared as his Aura left him and ultimately took his life.

Coming to he looked at a devastated Lucario.

"He was a hero" Ash said quietly "he never abandoned Rota. He saved everyone." putting the gloves on Ash felt a strange sort of calm settle over him. This was quickly shattered though as another wave of pain hit him. This time though it knocked him down. Once again, he struggled to his feet as the pain seemed to come from the heart itself. They had ignored it in favour of watching Sir Aarons last act but as he made his way over, he gasped. There on top of the crystals on a slab of pure blue crystal was the body of a Mew.

Chapter 32: Chapter 32

Chapter Text

Chapter 32- Startling Revelations

Another meeting was due to take place at the Hall of Origins. Arceus was waiting on the last few Pokémon to arrive when everyone felt a massive spike of aura originating from Northern Kanto. Concerned, Arceus turned to the Kanto birds who disappeared from the hall. Roaring to the sky the picture changed to the view of Lady Moltres who was flying as fast as she could in a certain direction. Not long later she was joined by her brother and sister who were also headed in the same direction. Soon enough they arrived at Cameran Palace in Rota and overheard the words of the champion. Arceus was very concerned when she heard Moltres interfere with the plans to arrest the Chosen One. It seemed that several of her children were actively rebelling from her edicts and had willingly shown themselves to be on the side of a human. Shaking her head, she watched on as Zapdos and Articuno joined their sister in laying down the law.

The rest of the hall watched on with interest. They would never have suspected that the first major act of defiance of Arceus' laws would come from the Kanto birds yet here the stood watching it take place. They all knew that their mother would be furious. What was even more interesting though was the power the Chosen One displayed as he and his Pokémon made short work of an army designed to protect the Queen of Rota. It seemed that Arceus had chosen wisely. Hours later the Kanto birds had landed in their respective homes and projected themselves into the Hall of Origin.

As they all appeared the silence from everyone else made them slightly concerned but as one they greeted Lady Arceus and waited.

"Explain yourselves" Arceus commanded.

"Explain what?" Zapdos asked.

"Explain why you disobeyed my edicts and interfered directly into human affairs" Arceus boomed.

"Are you really that obtuse?" Moltres asked shocking everyone "for the last decade you've been telling us how important the Chosen One is going to be to Pokémon-kind world round. But when he needs us most, you're happy to let him suffer on his own?"

"He was not suffering!" Arceus said walking down the hall to stop at Moltres.

"Yes, he was" she said defiantly "we all felt his aura. That doesn't happen on accident. For the last year you have let him get into dangerous situations and done nothing to help him. We nearly lost him at the Porta Vista incident and still you have done nothing to aid him. My brother was minutes away from perishing because of the villains who captured him and still you did nothing."

"Is it any wonder why Ash has stopped believing you will aid him?" Zapdos asked further shocking Arceus "he has long since come to terms with the fact that you will never step in when he needs you most."

"I heard from Lord Venusaur that his own Pokémon have given up believing you will help him." Articuno said "when I told my siblings this, we all agreed that if you won't help him then we will. And if I'm to be erased for doing the right thing then so be it."

Zapdos and Moltres nodded in agreement. "For nearly a millennium now I have followed your edicts, often at my own peril." Zapdos said "and if the Chosen One is to be the one to bring balance, then I would have him know that he is not alone in his quest as he believes himself to be."

"He needs our help" Ho-oH said walking forward "even if its just a point in the correct direction. I agree with them. You stood in that very spot less than a decade ago and told us that we would have to aid the Chosen One. You cannot create an issue and then get angry when we're left to pick up the pieces."

"I did not create an issue" Arceus said glaring at everyone as she walked back to her podium.

"Yes, you did" Darkrai said "we've told you repeatedly that your edicts hinder us. And only you have the power to change them, yet you don't."

Looking up at the sky he noticed that Ash's perspective was being displayed for everyone to see. They watched as he made his way to the heart of the Tree of Beginning. Listening in they all began to worry as Ash's words began to make sense. His own Venusaur saying the tree was dying caused them all concern. His capture of the Regis and promise to release them had mixed views. Some were disgusted by how easily they had been beaten; most were happy that they'd be released. But it was the final view that caused the most outrage. Everyone felt the wave of anguish come from Ash as he picked up Mews body and cradled it.

"You let her die?!" Groudon shouted at Arceus "how could you let Mew die?"

"I thought Ash would reach her in time" Arceus said shocked at the image "how could he fail?"

"Oh no" Groudon said "you don't get to put the blame on Ash for this. I might still not like the idea of willingly interacting with a human, but you've known about Mew being captured for years now and I know you knew where she was being held! YOU are to blame for this. YOU let her be experimented on by those scum. Are we to be next? When the time comes and we're captured, are we to be left to die too?"

"You promised me she'd be found" Mew said crying "you promised you'd help my sister? How could you do such a thing?"

Arceus was genuinely lost for words. Looking around she had never seen such hostility come from every legendary there. Usually, they'd be on her side in knowing what she said went only this time she had failed them all. Shaking her huge head, she tried to focus on what she could do beore finally she came up with some sort of plan.

"Celebi" she said, "is there a world in which she was saved?"

"Just one" Celebi said knowing where this was going "your edicts however interfere with the outcome so I cannot see it. If you're asking what I think you are then remember this, where there is death, there will always be a death."

"It's a risk we will have to take Celebi" Arceus said looking at the assembled crowd "see it done. Dialga, aid her. Please."

"You know doing this risks everything?" Dialga asked slowly "this requires something that once done cannot be reversed and sets a dangerous precedent in the future."

Arceus simply nodded and looked up at Ash and Mew. "The Chosen One is necessary for the world. He will help Mew, no matter what it takes."

Immediately Celebi started glowing, Dialga roared and they both disappeared. As one they all looked up at the scene.

Elsewhere

Mewtwo felt the wave of aura again, this time though it was pain. What on earth had happened? For some reason he was driven to his knees by the pain. He had not felt pain like that in such a long time. The last time had been when his friend disappeared. She too had been an experiment, one that hadn't survived. He had mourned her for such a long time and then blanked it out. Whatever had happened had unsealed that block and for the first time in years Mewtwo felt a tear fall. Angry at himself he stood back up, wiping away the tear. He couldn't afford to show any weakness.

"Why are you crying?" a voice asked.

Turning around his gaze narrowed on the man who had spoken "it's no concern of yours."

"You forget your place Mewtwo" the man said growing angry at the disrespectful tone.

"It will soon be watching from afar as you are pulled apart and your corpse sent to all four corners of the planet" Mewtwo said.

"Maybe" the man said smirking "but you won't be around to see it. Do not forget, my little slave, I own you."

"For now." Mewtwo said as he teleported away leaving the man with a thoughtful frown on his face.

Rocket HQ

Jessie and James had been summoned to see the Boss for 8am. They were both very nervous as the last time this had happened it had been to report on Blaine. They thought that they'd get at least a few more weeks to gain more information on Ash for their boss but apparently not. Walking down the familiar hallway they sat down at the reception and waited for the boss to summon them. Soon enough they were, and they walked through the door and stopped in front of the chairs facing the boss.

"I have received intelligence that Ash Ketchum has attacked Rota. Why have you not informed me?" he asked without any preamble.

"We didn't know, Sir" James said looking confused "we haven't seen him since Cinnabar."

"We saw him from afar in Viridian City a few days ago" Jessie said "but all we knew was he was challenging the gym leader there. He exited the building a few hours later and then sped away the day after. We later heard that Giovanni left in a hurry after the battle but we have no idea why."

"Did he now?" the boss asked smirking "at any rate Ketchum made short work of the guardians at Rota. And if my report is correct the three Kanto Legendary birds appeared. I assume you know nothing of this either?"

"No sir" James said looking at Jessie confused before focusing back on his boss "we read the report of the Power Plant months ago where he saved the Zapdos' life from one of your cells. Maybe they felt they owed him?"

"He has an affinity with Pokémon I've never seen before sir" Jessie piped up "it's like he can understand them, their feelings too."

"I have reason to believe he can" the boss said "I have reason to believe he is gifted in aura. His father certainly was."

"You knew his father?" James asked.

"We've met. Our last encounter left its mark on me" the boss said rubbing his hand unconsciously "for now though I wish to give you two a gift." Reaching into his drawer he pulled out two lapels. Handing them over Jessie and James were shocked.

"A promotion?" James asked quietly "why?"

"Yes" the boss said "I value intelligence. Your actions had me questioning the wisdom of keeping you two alive at times but I'm glad I did. Your intel on Ketchum and other trainers as well as your loyalty to Team Rocket, other than your request to defect months ago has been well received. I considered making you Admins or Executives, but you're far more useful out in the field so instead you'll be captains. Your knack for information gathering is extremely valuable. This comes with more responsibility of course but I'm sure you two can handle it. You still report to me as well as the executives I place in charge of you on missions. Your budget has been slightly increased as has your wages. You are still required to justify major purchases but given the contraptions you two have built on the budget you had I can't see this being an issue."

"Thank you, Sir" Jessie said attaching her lapel to her top, James mirroring her.

"Yes, thank you Sir" James said.

"Dismissed" the boss said watching as they walked out. Ringing his receptionist, he asked for Proton and Domino and then for his helicopter to be readied. With the M2 plans halted due to all his scientists going missing he needed to come up with a new way of world domination. He also needed to speak to Fuji somewhat urgently.

Ash

Sorrow. Anguish. Pity. Anger. He felt all of these things at once as he cradled the body of the Mew. She was battered and bruised, with puncture marks all over her little body. Ash tried to heal her but with no life force to interact with he knew it was futile. Standing up he walked out of the tunnel to see the assembled Pokémon. Walking to the bank of the stream Ash took off his jacket and began to wash her, getting rid of all the blood, grime and dirt that had accumulated on her. There were signs that she'd tried to heal herself, but it was clear that she'd overexerted herself with escaping Team Rockets clutches and didn't have anymore energy to do anything but come home. Ash knew immediately who she was, this was the Mew he was asked to rescue, the one that was being experimented on to create a new Mew clone.

"Why didn't Arceus rescue you" Ash whispered to Mew "I know she knew where you were, she apparently knows all. Or why didn't she point me in your direction sooner?"

"Ash?" came a voice from behind him. Looking over he saw Lucario.

"At least we know why this place is dying Lucario" Ash said looking back down at Mew "everything that we can see is connected to Mew and her lifeforce. With none to be found for over a decade it's withered and is decaying."

"Can we do nothing? What if we gave the tree our Aura? I'm willing to sacrifice my life to do so, just like Sir Aaron" Lucario said.

"Sir Aaron transferred his aura into Mew, not the tree." Ash said sadly as he walked over to his jacket and laid her down on it "unfortunately, even if both of us gave up our aura we don't have a conduit strong enough to accept it."

"So, we can do nothing?" Lucario asked furiously.

"Unless you have a spare Mew hidden away somewhere…" Ash said trailing off. All of a sudden Ash and Lucario looked up as they felt a huge spike in the world's aura. In front of them a rip in the very world started to open up. Concerned Ash hid Mew behind him as he turned to face whatever came their way. Amazingly a Pokémon that must have been easily over fifteen feet tall came through the rip which sealed itself behind him. Ash knew that his Pokémon would struggle to take this behemoth down, but they would all do what they could to protect Mews body. A flash of green drew Ashs attention as on top of the Pokémon's head a tiny green Pokémon floated downwards towards Ash. He knew who she was. He had seen various sketches in Sam's books of this Pokémon. But why would a Celebi be here?

"Human" the huge Pokémon said telepathically into Ash's head. Automatically Ash's aura spiked as he tried to get the voice from inside his head. He found that he was winning whatever mental battle was happening, and soon enough he had forced it out. Panting with the effort Ash glared at the being. Without warning the voice appeared again and said in an irritated tone "stop struggling, this is the only way I can communicate with mortals."

"Then tone it down" Ash said grabbing his head in pain "you have no need to shout."

"Apologies" the being said in a much quieter voice "I am unaccustomed to speaking with humans. It has been several millennia since I last did."

"Who are you?" Ash asked, "I've seen sketches of you somewhere before, but I cannot recall where."

"My Mother named me Dialga at my birth" Dialga said. Recognising the name Ash nodded "Good, I see you're familiar with me?"

"Bits" Ash said nodding as the pain had receded "when I first met Arceus I researched everything I could about her afterwards. She was said to have created three beings. One that ruled over time, one that ruled over space and one that was banished to the underworld for its violence. However correct that is though is a mystery as the records are centuries old and truth is often lost in translation."

"You are essentially correct in your summation." Dialga said "I am Dialga, Lord of Time, my sister Palkia is Lady of Space, and our brother Giratina is Lord of the reverse world. The stories of his violence however are incorrect. He wasn't banished, more like he's in a time out for levelling cities in his anger at Mother."

"Ah right ok, seems reasonable to me given what I've experienced over the last year" Ash said, "so what are you doing here?"

"We have been ordered by mother to correct a wrong" Dialga said looking at the body of Mew.

All of Ash's rage returned instantly. "So rather than doing something herself she's getting you to do her dirty work?"

"Your rage is misplaced Human" Dialga said "mother did not do this to Mew; those vile humans did so. Do not forget that."

"And Arceus knew she had been captured, was being experimented on and was in pain" Ash retorted "she told me herself six years ago that Mew had been captured. And we all know she knew where she was being held. If she had any love for her creations, she would have done something about it herself."

"Again, your thoughts are misplaced. However, I can understand your thought process as many of my brethren share your opinion." Dialga said "that does not mean you are correct though."

"And it doesn't mean I'm wrong either" Ash retorted.

"No, it does not." Dialga said agreeing "however Mews death is a terrible tragedy, one that we seek to undo. Celebi and I have been instructed to fix the issue. But to do so we need your aid Chosen One."

"What do you need me to do?" Ash said looking concerned.

"Where there is death there shall always be a death" Celebi said flying around Ash's head.

"Speak sense and not in riddles" Ash said losing his patience "If you can revive Mew then do so. Otherwise everyone's time here is being wasted."

"Oh, my brother would love you" Dialga said acerbically "As Celebi said, where there is death, there will always be a death. What this means is should we reverse time to save Mew, someone or something equal to her needs to take her place."

"What is equal to a Mew?" Ash said bewildered.

"It's the feelings behind the sacrifice that will power it" Celebi said, "for instance should you give up your aura it will be deemed acceptable, should you give up your shoe it wouldn't as it's replaceable."

"And how can I save the world without my aura?" Ash asked sarcastically "if you've talked to your mother then you know who I am and what my destiny is. Normally I wouldn't hesitate, but I can't give up something I need."

"It was an example" Dialga said ignoring the sarcasm "the point is every being on this earth has the same value as each other. Just because Mew is important doesn't mean a lone Pidgey is not."

For several minutes Ash struggled to come up with something that he could give up. His Pokémon and mother were out of the question. Ash didn't really have anything else he could give up. Everything else was materialistic. Realising he had nothing he said as much.

"What if I sacrificed my life and aura?" Lucario said stepping forward.

"Unfortunately, no, we have been instructed to reverse Mews death with the Chosen Ones aid" Celebi said, "he must be the one to give something up."

"Well, there's a surprise" Ash said bitterly "yet another thing I'm sacrificing for Arceus amusement." Shaking his head Ash walked back to the river and thought over what he could give up. As if by magic a lightbulb went off in his head. Would it be deemed enough though? Walking back over to Dialga and Celebi, he told them of his idea.

"It is acceptable" Dialga said "but it is not reversible, so if you go ahead with this only death will release you from the oath. Do you still want to proceed?"

Looking over at Mews broken body he nodded. "let's get this over with."

"Very well. Hold onto Mew, she will disappear but when she reappears you must think about your sacrifice, let it encompass you and direct it into Mew using your aura" Dialga said as he roared to the heavens and a split appeared. Celebi started chanting and the world around them began spinning as time slowly rewound around them. Gradually the spinning became faster and faster, and Ash watched amazed as he saw himself leave with Lucario from inside the tunnel where he first found Mew. Ash watched as Pokémon disappeared from the surrounding area as the world kept spinning. Without warning a pink flash went off inside the tunnel. Racing inside Ash picked up Mew, who had clearly just escaped whatever torture she was being subjected to.

"Now Ash" Dialga shouted from outside the tunnel "Mew has just appeared, think of what you're sacrificing and direct it to Mew."

Ash immediately thought of what he was sacrificing. He was very surprised to find himself crying when suddenly a pink life force came out of Ash's body and dangled over Mew. Knowing instinctively what to do he formed an Aura Sphere, wrapped the pink force around it and plunged his hand into one of Mews many wounds. Her screams nearly had Ash stop but he knew he couldn't until it was over with. When the last drop of pink had left Ash's hand Mew dropped onto her platform and Ash staggered outside where he collapsed at the side of the river where he had lain Mew. Barely conscious Ash heard Dialga roar again and this time the world started spinning the other way. Twenty minutes later the world started slowing down for Ash. As soon as it finished Ash passed out and he knew no more.

Dialga, Lucario and Celebi watched as Ash passed out. "Normally I would erase this from a humans mind" Dialga said "however Ash must learn to live with this. It is not fair; it is just how it is. Very few humans would give up what he gave up. He has my respect, and I shall convey it to Mother. Celebi, we must go. Lucario, when he awakens, he will need your aid in restoring the tree. Mew is very much alive but will need your help. Farewell." Ripping open the world again Dialga stepped through with Celebi following just as it closed.

Lucario looked at Ash with both concern and amazement. He thought Sir Aaron was brave sacrificing himself to save the world from a war, what his descendent had just done was easily on par with it. As Ash began to stir, he made his way over to him and helped him sit up.

"I feel hollow" Ash said quietly "I didn't realise what giving up that would do to me. But I feel hollow. Like a part of me is missing."

"A part of you is missing" Lucario said "come on. I was told by Dialga that once you regained consciousness that Mew will still need our help restoring the tree."

Nodding Ash stood up and nearly fell back over. With the help of Lucario he made his way down the tunnel to find Mew waiting for them barely conscious on her pedestal. She was still bruised but her aura was strong. He made his way over to her and placed his hand on her head and started to heal her. After a few minutes she was able to help herself and Ash stopped, panting with the effort siting with his back to the crystal. After ten minutes Ash looked up as he felt Mew hovering in front of him.

Smiling he nodded to her and said, "You're alive, that's good."

"I am" she said confused "but I feel like I shouldn't be."

Lucario explained what happened so that Ash could recover more from his ordeal. When he got to the part about his sacrifice Mew glomped him. Chuckling he prized her off as Lucario finished his story.

"Come on" Ash said standing up "the sooner you're healed the sooner the tree can start to recover. Plus, I still have a meeting with my mother to have today." Standing up Ash gathered his aura into his hands and began to shoot it into Mews pedestal where it was quickly absorbed. Lucario did the same and within a few minutes they could feel something impeding them both. Calling a halt, he walked around the pedestal and began to examine it. Something was off, something Ash had felt before. Casting his mind back he suddenly gasped as he reached a hole in the crystal formation and remembered where he had felt this.

"Lucario" Ash said quietly "in my bag is a scarf, can you go and get it please. It's very urgent."

Nodding Lucario did as was asked and within a few minutes he had returned. Gently Ash broke off a piece of the crystal revealing what was stopping the tree from healing. It was a stone, only it was pure black, with strange markings on it, oddly curved as if it fit into a puzzle the shape of the Earth. "I once found one of these at the Heart of the Forest in Viridian Forest. It was infecting the forest around it and if I had not found it, within a few years the forest and all its inhabitants would have perished. It was placed there on purpose, by whom I'm clueless on. It was then taken from me by my mentor due to him knowing what it was, and I completely forgot about it until now. Be careful not to touch it" Ash said as he wrapped his hand in the scarf and grabbed hold of the stone. It was stubborn and refused to move. That was until Ash punched the rocks around it with his other hand and it came loose. Quickly wrapping the stone up Ash ran outside and placed it inside his bag. Walking back into the tunnel Ash and Lucario began healing the heart again. After an hour they were exhausted but during that time Mew had recovered and took over. Every hour they would take over in shifts until six hours later, very exhausted Ash, Lucario and Mew walked outside the tunnel and gazed in amazement at how lush the surrounding area had become.

"Thank you for your aid" Mew said, "but I think you have two of my friends."

Remembering Ash pulled out two Pokéballs and called out Regirock and Regice. As they materialised, they gazed impassively at Ash, as much as a robotic looking Pokémon could at any rate. Letting them out he said "you're free to go" Ash said putting the empty Pokéballs back into his bag. They simply beeped and dug underground, vanishing in seconds.

"Should you need me Chosen One, just call. There is a tunnel over there that leads to the entrance" Mew said before she turned away and went back to her pedestal where she promptly fell asleep. Ash shouldered his backpack and with Lucario he made his way outside. It took several hours but they found a path that eventually led outside.

Taking a deep breath Ash turned to Lucario and asked, "what are your plans now?"

"I plan to return to Rota where I will spread the true tale of Sir Aaron" Lucario said "After that I may travel, or I might train up the Rota Lucario. The fact they were beaten by one person, however skilful you might be is incredibly shameful. I also have some questions for that First Knight of hers that better have some really good answers."

"I wouldn't hold your breath" Ash said laughing "they've had centuries of mediocre training and it will be tough knocking that out of them. Plus, with the world learning about accessing Aura through my book maybe you should travel and give classes on them instead. As for Riley I wouldn't hold your breath, he's protected by Ilene."

"That seems to be a worthwhile endeavour. I think I'll give Rota a chance first. And Queen or not he will answer my questions Ash as from what I've heard from you he's disgraced his role as a Guardian of Aura. He's very lucky Sir Aaron isn't in charge or he'd have been executed before Ilene could get a word in for dishonouring the office he holds." Lucario said angrily before his demeanour changed. "It has been an honour Sir Ketchum." he finished bowing.

"It's just Ash to my friends" Ash said bowing back "I am no Knight and you're the only tolerable Lucario I've met. If you ever need aid, or are simply passing by, my house is being built on the outskirts of Pallet Town to the South of here and is always open, my mother owns a restaurant in Pallet too should you wish to find me. I'm sure Professor Oak at the lab would love to meet you too. We need to keep what happened to Mew between us two though, the death of a Legendary dispels any myths about them and we cannot have that. Farewell Lucario" calling out Charizard he climbed on his back and took off leaving the tree far behind very quickly. Lucario watched until he disappeared before making his way to Rota. He had several guardians to talk to.

Hall of Origin

Arceus watched on as Ash interacted with Dialga and Celebi. She was very concerned about the choice of words Ash used. Had she really fallen from grace that quickly in his eyes? In the span of a year, she'd gone from being Lady Arceus to just Arceus, someone who abandons others at mere whims. When she heard what Ash chose to give up, she was shocked. He could not be allowed to give that up! It was what drove him to get up in a morning and fuelled his desire. She watched as Dialga and Celebi did their thing. Making a decision she stepped forward onto her plinth and roared at the scene and from nowhere a golden mist appeared from Arceus' body and projected itself into the scene. It quickly intermingled with the pink aura Mew was made of and the blue of Ash where it disappeared back into Ash once he was done.

Panting from the effort Arceus looked around, taking in the shocked faces of her assembled children. She had never once directly interfered with humans after the Michina Town incident where her five plates were stolen. To see her do so astounded them all. All of their focus was quickly directed to the scene of Ash healing the tree and when he pulled the black stone from the tree though Giratina, Palkia and the recently returned Dialga all looked shocked at Arceus who made no move to give any indication that she knew what it was. Soon the scene faded as Ash and Lucario parted ways.

Looking over the assembled crowd she waited for the inevitable questions.

"What was that?" Darkrai asked "what did you do?"

"I did something I haven't done in centuries" Arceus said "I aided directly with a human life. Ash could not give that up. It's what drives him to be the best, it's what makes him the human he is. So, I simply locked it away rather than erase it. Over time he will get it back, but for now he has to believe he has lost it."

"You're leaving him in the dark, again?" Ho-oH asked incredulously "you've seen what that does to him! Have you learned nothing?"

"Enough" Arceus said angrily "I permit you to question me, but do not think I have to answer you."

"What was that black rock?" Azelf asked curiously.

"Something that doesn't concern you" Arceus said sharply trying to hide her own concern but failing to do so successfully.

Knowing that they were all at a tipping point Dialga interrupted "I think we should leave it here for today before Judgement is called and we say something we may all regret. Palkia, Giratina I need to speak to you before we leave."

Nodding the various Legendaries disappeared until it was just the four of them.

"Your Egg is being discovered" Giratina said to Arceus "it was forgotten about for a reason."

"It is most concerning" Arceus said "Ash has found two pieces in the space of a year. Is he destined to find more?"

"It would seem so" Palkia said "it seems you're not the only one playing with the Chosen One."

"I am not playing with him" Arceus said defiantly.

"As you say" Giratina said "but he only has five more pieces to find. The odds are heavily in his favour so perhaps you should meet with him and explain what is happening."

"It would go a long way to mending the rift between the two of you" Palkia said "and if he's on the lookout for them then he'll be forewarned about what completing the Egg will do."

"I shall give it some thought" Arceus said "I've already interfered with humans enough for one day. I shall inform you three at the next gathering of my decision. I feel the Chosen One will be kept busy in the very near future. I can feel his destiny approaching and don't want to overburden him."

Nodding they all faded away until it was just Arceus. She was still feeling the effects of what she did today. If doing such a small thing winded her then what would openly helping Ash do? No, she couldn't interfere, not until she was whole again. Her Egg being discovered was of great concern though. It had shattered into seven pieces when she was born at the beginning, scattered to the very edges of the universe itself. And when she found the Earth and began to create everything in it she felt her Egg make its way back towards Earth, as though it was magnetised and soon enough, she felt her Egg enter Earths atmosphere where it landed in different places, quickly becoming lost to the ravages of time. It seemed that time was now working against her as in the space of a year Ash had uncovered two pieces. Was the Chosen One destined to unite them? Did he have more of a role than she intended him to have? Perhaps that was why he had found them, she already knew that he was destined to make her whole again soon, was her Egg integral to that? Sighing she knew that again, only time would tell.

Ash

He asked Charizard to take his time getting to the Plateau. Normally it would only take a few hours, but Ash didn't want to appear less than 100% when he presented himself to the Elite Four, Champion and Goodshow. He still had his aura, he still had his Pokémon, and he still had his dream. So for now, that was all that mattered. He knew he'd tell his mother the entire story, but she was the only one he would tell. The rest didn't need to know. As the league building came into view Ash started to get nervous, soon he would be hearing and seeing his dad. He only ever heard his voice when he used to watch some of his battles before his mum asked him to stop and pictures only tell so much of a story.

Landing at the Plateau he made his way up the huge staircase and walked into the League HQ building. He showed the receptionist his Pokédex and told her the Elite Four was expecting him. While he waited to be called, he walked around the huge lobby taking in the photos of the various winners. There on one wall was his dad with his Pokémon standing behind him dated 26 years ago. They looked strong. He wondered if that's how he would look when he became champion.

"That was taken three days after the Championship match" a voice said behind Ash. It was Blue who quickly joined Ash's side "Our battle still remains to this day one of, if not the most ferocious match ever witnessed at the Plateau. It came down to our starters in the end. The battle raged on for half an hour between the two of them and it all came down to a flinch from my Blastoise at the most inopportune time which settled the fight. After that your father's strength and that of his Pokémon increased by the day. I know that in less than a year after this picture was taken, I would have struggled to beat him given his development. There's a reason he became the youngest Pokémon Master ever just five years later. For myself I was very content to have become Champion, even if it was just for a few days. I often joked that 'that meddling Red did me in' but that was the only dream I ever had; your father had greater aspirations than I. He'd be 43 in a few weeks. I'm sorry you never met him, more than you know Ash."

"He may yet be still alive" Ash said wiping away a tear "let's go find out, shall we?"

Nodding Blue clasped Ash on the shoulder and led the way to the elevator where he scanned his card and they rose to the very top of the building in silence. The door opened to a huge office, furnished in deep green with royal blue walls. Behind a massive mahogany desk was one wall of window, overlooking the main stadiums pitch. Just off to the side of the office was a door that was open. He followed Blue into the room and saw there was a huge table, evidently a boardroom where his mother was seated along with the rest of the Elite Four, Charles at the head and Queen Ilene and Riley next to him.

Ignoring the others Ash rushed up to his mother and hugged her tightly. He whispered into her ear that he had something important to tell her. She squeezed him in acknowledgement and let him go after giving him a kiss on the forehead. Sitting down at the side of her Ash waited for the questions to start. He decided to pre-empt them.

"First of all, The Tree of Beginning is fine, Mew is happily playing with the various Pokémon there. Sir Aarons story is the same as Queen Rins. He sacrificed his Aura to help Mew destroy the armies of the Abominations led by Malokei. It was Aaron that ended the Great War at Rota and his Aura still to this day powers the life force of the Tree. Lucario is on the way back to Rota to confirm this, I've been given Aarons gloves by Lucario. When we're done here you can have his staff back. It's an heirloom of Rota after all and I don't need a staff. But you Riley are going to have to answer to him, he's not best pleased a First Knight has digraced his office and hasn't been executed."

"I am glad his story is correct" Ilene said nodding while Riley stayed silent "his staff will be placed in the Great Hall in a place of honour. Hopefully Lucario understands Sir Riley is not totally at fault and other than that blemish his record is unblemished in service to Rota."

"Do of it what you will" Ash said ignoring the last part "now, before we see what my father said, what did you discover about my father?"

"Nothing" Charles said handing over the page from Fuji "the contract we signed has disappeared as has the report on what happened in Viridian Gym. We all remember signing a contract, we just can't recall what was actually in it. As for myself I will correct something that has long held to be believed true. You were all apparently under the impression that you attended Red's funeral. That was incorrect. What I presided over was a celebration of his achievements."

"We were all there" Delia said furiously "we all know what we were there for too. How dare you lie about that!"

"I am not lying" Charles said patiently "I had a meeting with Red a few days before his disappearance to go over this ceremony. We planned everything and as such it didn't surprise me when he never turned up for the occasion. I was of course told that he had died but given the topic of conversation we had in here I believed he had simply hidden himself away while hunting Team Rocket. It was only when his name was brought up in conversation the other day that I remembered him. I've often wondered what became of him. I actually thought he'd pulled a Sam Oak and quit to pursue other endeavours."

Looking over the page Fuji had replaced in the file concerned Ash and Delia. It was clear that Fuji was behind the memory wipe of the Elite Four and Charles and it was also clear he was responsible for exchanging the contracts.

"So, he has Mewtwo" Ash muttered to his mum "Fuji is either controlling or working alongside Mewtwo. It's the only explanation as to what's going on here."

"I fear you're right" Delia said, "but to what end?"

"I have a theory, nothing more" Ash said "Fuji was going to be executed for crimes against humanity, so he had Mewtwo destroy the gym and kidnap dad. With dad gone, the main witness for his trial who had the evidence that would seal his fate…the courts had no choice but to clear Fuji when dad didn't show up."

"You're correct" Charles said interrupting their talk "the NDA we all signed was about not being able to discuss in public about what happened at Cinnabar and Viridian gym until such time as Red came forward with evidence. And as he never did Fuji was relocated to Lavender Town."

"Where he took over the minds of everyone there with the amplification device" Agatha said sourly.

Waving it away Charles said "No, that was only in the last year. We kept a close eye on him and apart from going on vacation every now and then he did not leave Lavender Town. It appears as though he's out and about these days though due to the various reports I've received. There's not just been the incidents Ash has been involved in. A Laboratory was destroyed a few months ago thirty miles off the coast of New Island, every scientist there disappeared, one of whom was our mole inside what we believed to be Team Rocket. There's also been a few isolated incidents of people going missing and turning up days later with no memory of what happened. And then there was Blaine's mysterious death a few weeks ago."

"Fuji did that" Ash said surprising them all "I found Blaines journal in the old hidden lab. The volcano wasn't responsible for demolishing the lab, in fact, the Volcano didn't even touch the lab, just sealed several passageways into it. It is still very much there, just smashed to pieces with evidence of Mewtwos rage. Blaine wrote several times in the journal detailing his fear that Fuji was after him alongside Team Rocket. I have no proof of this other than what was written in his journal, but it's not a leap to imagine Fuji tying up a loose end before he was captured by Team Rocket and spilling everything he knew. I handed Lance Blaines journal. And Mewtwo could easily place Blaines body on the beach and not be seen."

"You've mentioned that name a few times now" Ilene said confused "who's Mewtwo?"

"Mewtwo is a Pokémon" Ash said ignoring the warning look he received from Charles "He was the only successful experiment in a series of them that had been cloned from the DNA of a Mew fossil. He was created by Team Rocket over a decade ago in order to gain World Dominance, only they didn't account for him rebelling and destroying the lab and the very people that created him. You may have read about the eruption on Cinnabar Island many years ago. That was attributed to Mewtwos rage, destroying the lab he was created in underneath the volcano and setting off the eruption. Only that's not what happened as Charizard and I found evidence that Blaines Magmar was the one to erupt the volcano as Blaine had been ordered to find a way of covering up what they had done by his boss in Team Rocket. Where he has been hiding the last ten years is a mystery though. Pikachu and I have found evidence of him travelling but nothing concrete."

"And how does this tie in with your father's disappearance?" Ilene said earning a glare from Delia.

"I still don't know why you're here" Delia said, "You have had a crucial piece of evidence in your bloody bedroom for the last ten years that could tell us what happened to him and have kept quiet out of pure spite. You have a lot of nerve even talking about my husband"

"And you gained your revenge, rather brutally I might add" Lorelei said "but her question remains something we'd all like to know. So, if you would?"

Glaring at Lorelei, who was unmoved, Delia pulled out from her bag the Time Flower. Placing it on the desk they all marvelled at it.

"How do we activate it?" Charles asked.

"I touch it" Ash said standing up and observing it "only someone with Aura can activate them. Ilene has none so would not have been able to play it. And I suspect if she'd have asked Riley, despite him being an arsehole, he would have refused knowing what it was." getting a shameful nod from Ilene and a glare from Riley he shook his head in disgust. "So, I touch it and it activates. What it does is then play out a video and a message, like a recording to all of us. I suggest you all take notes."

Taking in a deep breath Ash reached forward and as soon as his fingers touched the Time Flower it bloomed and everyone in the room watched on in awe.

"I always knew it was you. Every time I saw you, I always knew you were hiding something. It seems my instincts were right. You're not leaving here alive Rocket. Let's go Lapras!" Red shouted as a blue dinosaur shaped Pokémon appeared in front of him "this is life or death Lapras so show no mercy".

The man came into view, it shocked Ash as he'd been expecting Giovanni only it wasn't. The man bore a striking resemblance to him though. Ash heard his mum mutter something under her breath but he ignored it as he was mesmerised by the visage of his dad. It had been about four years since he last watched one of his matches but he was the spitting image of him, his nose was different though and his eyes were Blue to Reds brown but other than that they were similar in every way.

"We thought he'd died a few years before this" Delia said quietly, "Red seems unsurprised though to find him alive." Shaking her head, she watched her husband demolish the man in battle.

"You're finished Rocket, as is your entire business. You should have stayed dead." Red shouted as he recalled his Pidgeot from the battlefield "I suggest you come quietly."

"You have no idea what you're talking about" the man said as he charged at Red. He had clearly been trained in hand-to-hand combat as Red struggled to hold the bigger man at bay. The man hissed as Red threw an Aura Sphere at him where it grazed his hand and burned his flesh. Crying out in pain the man backed away but just before he could say anything though a huge explosion rocked the building throwing them both to the ground. Red saw a brief flash of purple before he was bodily thrown into the wall where his head hit hard, and his hat flew off to near the door. Shaking his head as he tried to get up a pair of feet came into view. Looking up into the face of the other man he saw him smile cruelly.

"I always have a back-up" turning to something behind Ash he continued "Kill him, leave no trace of us behind."

The man called out a Kadabra and teleported away leaving Red with whomever he had been talking to. He felt something try and invade his mind and tried as hard as he could to push it away. Shockingly he was successful causing the other being to stumble. Standing up Red got a clear view of what it was.

"Mewtwo" Red breathed out before he was hoisted into the air and began to be choked. Red called upon his aura and sent it at Mewtwo who was thrown backwards. Mewtwo began to gather a purple ball as Red did the same. Launching them at each other the collision of the attacks sent them both flying backwards. Red hit the crumbling wall hard and was struggling to stay alert as bits of the ceiling began to rain down on them. He felt Mewtwo head in his direction and called his aura into his hand creating a Time Flower before his vision went black as did everyone else's."

Coming to Ash saw his mum trembling with grief. He didn't expect to see what he saw but clearly his father was a gifted trainer and his usage of Aura was very commendable. Ash felt an enormous sense of pride in how his father handled the situation. It was clear that he had beaten the strange man before Mewtwo interfered. Could he have beaten Mewtwo at full strength? Maybe not. Ash was certain that he could put up more of a fight though. He felt shame hit him as he got rid of that thought. His dad fought to the end. He was a hero.

"So that was the leader of Team Rocket" Blue said, "he looked familiar."

"His name is Silver" Delia said shocking them all after she had pulled herself together "we thought he had died a few years before the incident at Cinnabar. He was supposedly one of the lead scientists, working alongside Fuji and Blaine. Red was devastated when he died. It's one of the few times he openly cried in front of me."

"But who is he?" Ilene asked looking around the table.

"He is the son of an unknown woman, borne from a one-night stand thirty one years ago." Delia said turning to Ash "he is the son of Giovanni; he is your cousin."

Chapter 33: Chapter 33

Chapter Text

I realised in the last few chapters that people may be confused about the ages of people for the timelines so for the sake of this fic I'm changing people's ages slightly…

Sam is 60 (just turned)

Delia is 42

Giovanni is 57

Blue is 43

Red is 43 (disappeared age 31)

Silver is 31 (disappeared age 21)

Ash is 12

A shorter chapter as its more of a filler. Hopefully my maths is right.

Chapter 33- What did you just say?

Giovanni was sat in his office looking at a photo that was always kept under lock and key. It was a very old picture of him and Delia. Growing up they had always been very close, even though Giovanni was a good fifteen years older than Delia, he had always felt protective of her. No boys dared make fun of her when he was around as he wouldn't think twice about hitting them. Casting his mind back he recalled the day she brought her first boyfriend home age fifteen. Giovanni was instantly mistrustful of him, but he was wary of the fact his sister was in love and wasn't quiet about telling him she was her own person. He felt vindicated when he heard that this Red bloke had abandoned her but then he soon came creeping back around. By this time, he recalled who Red was. He had been beaten by him several years before during Reds challenge for the League and rumour had it he had already beaten the first two Elite Four members in his quest for the Champion Title..

Giovanni however was too preoccupied to take much notice during those years as he found out that he had had a son. It was from a very brief affair; feelings weren't attached from either end, but she was the daughter of a rich man, and he wanted her contacts to help fund his push for the League president. He failed when it came to light he was the one to father her illegitimate child. Her father used his considerable power and influence to nix any thought of him getting the top job at the league so instead he settled for being the Eighth Gym Leader, still someone whose word was listened to but not the job he wanted. He was also banned from any contact from his son until his son turned sixteen. Those years were often very lonely for Giovanni but he had developed a closer relationship with his sister and he even got on with her husband!

It was Delia and Reds third wedding anniversary when Giovanni told them both about Silver. Red offered to help him as he had a much higher-ranking job as Champion, but Giovanni put a halt to it as he didn't want to put anyone in an uncomfortable position. Silver was seventeen when he first appeared on the scene as he gate-crashed a party Giovanni was having celebrating his thirteenth year as Viridian Gym leader. He immediately knew who he was, he was the spitting image of his mother, he even had the same dark red shade of hair colour.

He had spun Giovanni the story of how he had hated growing up in Johto, how his grandfather would never let an opportunity slide to insult Giovanni. He claimed he wasn't even told his fathers name until his grandfather had told him on his death bed. His mother meanwhile had taken over the family business, but on Silvers 20th Birthday he would gain full control so for the meantime he wanted to travel before he was stuck in Goldenrod City for the rest of his life. Giovanni welcomed him with open arms but during the following years Giovanni knew he was being lied to about something big. He just didn't have any proof of what. It all came to a head on Silvers 20th birthday when he was told by Silver who he really was. Giovanni was disgusted at the fact he had fathered a child with the daughter of one of the worst criminal gangs there were. And his son was now the leader! Of course, he couldn't tell anyone, Silver was still his son after all.

The eighteen months that followed was horrible. In that time the league leaders and officials had countless meetings about Team Rocket and what they were up to. There was a rumour that they had captured a Mew fossil and began experiments on it to clone it. Every time he saw Red he wanted to tell him, but he couldn't give up his only son. He told Delia and Red that Silver had died to try and keep any connection from Team Rocket from them. Things came to a head a few months later when the Elite Four raided a den in Johto and discovered that the Rocket Boss had cloned a Pokémon successfully. Giovanni had been horrified at the findings. Eighty failed experiments, all using live Pokémon as test subjects. They still had no idea where the lab was located, after all they had no idea one of their own was working for Team Rocket and keeping that information to himself. And then the explosion happened, and everything changed.

Red had captured the man who was behind all the cloning experiments, in a lab connected to Blaines Gym. Every one of them knew they had been duped and deceived by Blaine for years and Giovanni knew it was only a matter of time before Silver was revealed to be the boss and they realised he had duped them too. As far as he knew they had nothing to link Giovanni to Team Rocket but should anyone talk Giovannis life would come crashing down too. A week later Giovanni had travelled to the Goldenrod Radio Tower to confront his son only to discover Silver had left for Kanto the day before. Immediately catching the newly built Train he was back in Kanto the next day and his life was over. When he arrived in Viridian City he was told by Blue what happened and Giovanni was heartbroken. Not only had his sister lost her husband but he had lost his son too. How could he look her in the face and tell her he knew who the boss was?

So he decided to aid in the investigation, heading off questions at certain times. He painted himself as a crusader for his sister, a vengeful brother on the hunt for his brother-in-laws killer. He was certain at times that he would be found out, but he never was. Every time he saw his sister he was desperate to tell her everything but as the years rolled by it became easier to just not tell her. When Ash started looking into his father's disappearance Giovanni knew the lies were about to come crashing down as he knew Ash would discover who Team Rockets Boss was and therefore uncover all of Giovannis manipulations. Ash was far cleverer than he let on. Oh, people knew he was smart but he had the most amazing analytical mind Giovanni had ever seen.

The year had flown by and the rumours of Team Rocket resurfacing grew stronger by the day. When they attacked Viridian City Giovanni was desperate to hear any news about his son and went to interrogate the three Ash had captured only to find out they had been moved overnight by the League. They had left their Meowth behind though, so Giovanni claimed it for 'rehabilitation purposes'. He was amazed to find out it could talk but under interrogation it revealed nothing about Silver. So, he simply kept it in his gym along with his other Pokémon and forgot about it. Giovanni had been genuinely terrified when news reached him about Porta Vista and what Ash had done. He knew what it felt like to lose a son so he helped Delia as much as he could from afar.

The next few months Giovanni kept a desperate ear open for anything out of the ordinary. The explosion off the coast of New Island was eerily familiar, the random attacks on Legendaries, Pokémon Land exploding, Lavender Town being under psychic command, people going missing and turning up with no memory of what happened, even Meowth being stolen from his gym. It all culminated in yesterday's events though. He had been informed by his assistant that Ash had waged war on Rota and he knew instantly it was about the Time Flower. Why else would he attack Rota, and should Ash get his hands on it he would show it to his mother who would know who the leader of Team Rocket was. So here he was now, sat in his office waiting for the inevitable.

The buzz of his intercom shook him from his thoughts.

"Yes?" he asked.

"Sir, Champions Blue and Lance are here." His receptionist said, "They have some information to share with you."

"Send them in" Giovanni said as he stood up and went over to one of the walls. Punching in a code he pulled a thick file out of his safe and walked back over to his desk where he poured himself a drink and waited. Soon enough Blue and Lance entered. Lance looked pensive, Blue looked livid and Giovanni knew the game was up.

"What can I do for you gentlemen?" Giovanni asked.

"Cut the crap Gio" Blue said "you're coming with us to the League. There are some questions we'd like you to answer."

Looking at them Giovanni gulped his drink down and placed the glass on his desk. Grabbing the file, he walked over to his jacket and put it on. "Very well. Let's go, shall we?"

Giovanni called out his Alakazam, Blue doing the same and all three were transported to the League HQ reception desk. Charles' office was warded against direct teleportation, it would be far too easy to kidnap him after all should that be the case. Silently they all walked up to the elevator and made their way to the top. Walking through the door he followed Blue and Lance to the boardroom and stopped short when he saw Delia and Ash sat down next to the other Elites, Charles and strangely Queen Ilene who looked like she'd been beaten up next to her guardian Riley. Taking a seat facing them all he took his jacket off and straightened the file.

"Who wants to begin?" he asked.

"Silver" Delia said icily.

"Yes, I thought you'd want to start there" Giovanni said "For those of you not in the know Silver is my son. He was born thirty-one years ago after what was meant to be a one-night stand with the heiress of a company I was schmoozing to help fund my push for League President."

"I remember that. You'd have been a good candidate to take over from me" Charles said, "The bid quickly went away though."

"Yes" Giovanni said "her father found out it was I who fathered his daughter's child, accused me of treachery because we secretly dated for months behind his back and then used his money to blackball me from the presidency. I had enough money of my own from my own businesses, so I wasn't completely broken by it and I had enough of my own connections at that point to challenge him but we all knew I wouldn't have been successful. Money talks after all. Instead, I settled for the Viridian Leaders job and promoting the League at functions, a job I know I excel in. Back to Silver. I found out about him accidentally. I was speaking with an acquaintance at Silph Towers who mentioned Alexis had a child a few years before. I knew he was mine, so I reached out when I was told in no uncertain terms that he was off limits until he was sixteen and could decide for himself. Silver approached me when he was seventeen. His grandfather had just died, and he was due to take over the family business when he turned twenty, so he wanted to decide for himself what I was like."

"When did he become the leader of Team Rocket?" Delia asked glaring at him.

"When he was twenty. The few years I knew him was often marred by strange happenings around him." Giovanni said "I told you he had died, partly because I knew you would stop asking me about him out of pity, something I wished I could do myself. How do you explain to the people who love you that their nephew, my son was the leader of Team Rocket? Instead, I said he died and continued to meet with him outside of Viridian City. At that point you were far too busy with your own pregnancy, and I didn't see the point in worrying you."

"What happened at the Gym?" Blue asked.

"From the CCTV we recovered Red and Silver fought and Red won. After that the power was cut and I don't know. I suspected they both died but as there was no body found? All that remained was the Time Flower."

"How do you know about the time flower?" Ash asked, "we haven't mentioned a Time Flower."

"I led the investigation after Reds funeral." Giovanni said looking at Ash "the officer in charge of labelling evidence told me about it. I knew what they were. Red had told me of their significance and what they do so I knew that Red leaving one behind was not a coincidence. When I went to find it though it had gone."

"Ilene here was the culprit" Agatha said.

"You were?" Giovanni asked looking at her confused "why? You can't use Aura and what I know of the guardians they would not help you discover what secret it kept. Not even you being their Queen would override their sense of honour."

"Spite" Delia said glaring at them both "you know how much she envied that I was married to Red. Getting back to the point. What happened to Silver?"

"I do not know" Giovanni replied "everything I have heard, everything I was told I wrote down in this file. It spans the last five years. Rumours, off the cuff remarks, anything that mentioned my son or Team Rocket. This last year though has gained me three times the information I had in the previous four. Disappearances, attacks, explosions, raids. Everything my contacts have told me is in here. The biggest one though is Blaines death as I have reason to believe it was Fuji aided by Mewtwo. Oh yes, I know about Mewtwo. Question, why the hell did you not kill Fuji when you had the chance?"

"We were a day away from legally being able to do so" Lance said shrugging his shoulders "we had all the evidence we needed with Red and his results from his investigation. And then he disappeared."

"Along with my son" Giovanni said angrily "it's pretty evident to me that placing all your eggs in that one basket was ridiculous."

"You seem to believe we would have spared your son had we caught him" Blue said looking thoughtful.

"No" Giovanni replied snorting "I am not that naïve. But at least I could have seen my son one last time before he was led to his death. I do not ask for any forgiveness; it is far too late for that. But I did what I did to protect and aid my son to hopefully seek redemption."

"Redemption?" Delia said bewildered "your son authorised the death of hundreds of people, Pokémon as well. He financed the creation of a Pokémon that went on a rampage killing its creators, it then aided Silver in killing Red. We saw what it did in the Time Flower. Your son was beaten and Mewtwo finished Red off after your son cowardly fled the scene."

"We don't know Dad is dead" Ash interjected "the vision went dark before we found out what happened at the end."

"The fact still remains that for the last fifteen years Giovanni has known who the leader of Team Rocket is and said nothing" Bruno said, "as far as I'm concerned, he's no better than Blaine."

"You have some nerve comparing me to that monster" Giovanni shouted standing up and slamming his fist on the table "Who was it that let him go back to his everyday life rather than imprisoning him? Do not dare try and take the high road with me Bruno. Everyone in this room apart from Ilene, Riley, Ash and Delia played their role in what happened at Cinnabar. You knew for months where that lab was located and did nothing. It's all here in this file. So, you're as much to blame as I am. Do not forget that."

"He's right" Lance said shutting down any retort "but now we must decide what to do with him."

"Do with me?" Giovanni asked looking slightly puzzled "there is nothing you can do with me. Should I be sacked I will leak everything to the media and soon enough all five of you will be joining me at the Job Centre and you know it. I have done nothing except father a monster. That is my only crime."

"Is it?" Delia asked glaring at him.

"Legally yes" Giovanni said sighing "I'm aware my crimes to you are of a more personal nature but ask yourself this. Should the roles be reversed, and it was Ash, what would you do to help him? You don't have to like it, or ever forgive me Delia. I don't expect it. I just wanted you to hear my side before you judge me."

"So, the question remains, where do we go from here?" Blue asked.

The next few minutes was in complete silence. "What about Silvers mother?" Ash asked, "Is she still alive?"

"Alexis will not help you" Giovanni said quickly "she raised him to be the next Boss after all and she loves her son."

"I'm not saying she will" Ash said thinking out loud "but if we arrest her, Silver is likely to come out of hiding, no?"

"And face a billion Pokédollar lawsuit?" Giovanni responded, "no one would go along with it."

"What if we made Silver believe she was kidnapped?" Ilene said. "I'm sure she has to travel for her role in Team Rocket sometime. If we kidnapped her on route, would he take the bait?"

"We're talking about kidnapping a human being here" Lorelei said looking at them with disgust.

"To draw out the leader of the evilest organisation in Kanto for over a century" Ash said looking determined "I'll make this plain, if nothing is done soon, I will hunt him down myself. Cousin or not he is directly responsible for the suspected death of my father. And for eleven years you have known that information and lied directly to our faces Uncle. Should I face him, I will not hold back."

"Do you really think killing is that easy boy?" Giovanni asked sternly.

"My body count is likely higher than most sat around this table" Ash said without flinching. Gasps rang out from around the room at his revelation. "Do not sit and pretend you don't know. Bruno himself confronted me about the Power Plant incident. I know you all suspect what I reported wasn't the truth. I made peace with what I had to do long ago. So, if I have to torture or kill Silver to get the location of my father then I will."

"Then I will stop you" Giovanni said.

"How?" Ash said snorting "I've already beaten you in battle, and I beat your Elites to do so."

"Do not make the mistake of thinking he will be alone Giovanni" Blue said standing up "as far as I'm concerned, you and your son are in my way of regaining my best friend. So, will you help us willingly or not?"

Sighing Giovanni thought over what had been said in the last hour. Silently he pulled his wallet out from inside his jacket and looked inside. On the left side was a picture of him and Alexis, taken what seemed a lifetime ago. Knowing he had a son with her had always filled him with enormous pride, even though he was banned from seeing him he still kept tabs on them. Pulling out the photograph he looked at it for a moment before throwing it onto the desk where Blue picked it up.

"She's very pretty" Blue commented looking up "I don't know how this helps us though."

"The other side" Giovanni said. Turning it over Blue saw writing on the back. Reading it he realised it was an address. "It's her private residence when she's not in Goldenrod. Her watch and earrings are tracking devices. If she's wearing neither then she'll be wearing a hair clip shaped like my Earth badge which has one also."

"Why?" Delia asked curiously.

"It was never our choice in life to fall in love" Giovanni said standing up looking at her with a sad smile "but she was groomed to fill a role for her entire life and in turn groomed Silver. The death of her father would normally have created an opening however she knew she was being watched by her competitors, even some her fathers old friends, waiting for her to slip up. It is our lot in life Delia. Not everyone gets a happy ending. I ask only one thing."

"Do you want us to let you know when we have her?" Charles asked.

"No" Giovanni said putting his jacket on and straightening himself up "I will know. Just don't harm her if you can help it." Turning around he walked out of the office thinking over what had happened. He felt an enormous sense of guilt for being party to this, but he owed Delia and he adored his sister despite what he had done. He just hoped she would forgive him in time.

The meeting broke up very quickly after that with Blue taking Ilene and Riley home. Delia ignored her and Ash followed her to the reception of the Plateau. Before he left, he dragged her over to the picture of Red. Smiling she touched the picture. "We'll find him mum" Ash said quietly giving her a hug "I promise you."

Releasing Charizard Ash told him they needed to fly to Mt Moon as that's where his mum had left her car. Nodding Charizard lowered himself so they could get on and in two strong wingbeats they were in the air and headed for Mt Moon. An hour later they landed. Thanking Charizard Ash recalled him as they got in the car and on the drive back Ash told his mum about what happened at the Tree of Beginning. His voice was very hoarse by the time they had finished and it was nearing midnight when they reached Delia's house.

Before they went their separate ways Delia asked him "you said you were required to give something up, but you never said what it was."

"I know" Ash said "it was a tough choice, but I couldn't give up you or my Pokémon. It took a few minutes to think of something nearly the same value."

"What was it Ash?" Delia asked nervously.

"Love" Ash said sadly "I gave up the ability to find love mum." Turning around he headed up to bed where for the first time in months he cried himself to sleep. He had no idea his mother did the same.

Elsewhere

"They found your Time Flower then?" a man said.

"Yeah" Red said happily "I'll soon be reunited with them."

"And you think all will be forgiven?" the man asked sceptically.

"Well, it's not as if I have a choice in being here, is it?" Red asked sarcastically "you've still never told me where here is either."

"You know where we are" the man said "don't play dumb Red."

Nodding Red looked around "How did we get here though?"

"I have no idea." The man said laughing "what I do know is the world is about to be placed in terrible turmoil. And your son will be at the centre of it."

"I hate at times that he's been set this task" Red said frowning "I wish I could help."

"You already are" the man said "his determination to find you is what's got him through all the trials so far. He's unbelievably resourceful and unbelievably lucky. He'll find this place and you'll be set free."

"We'll be set free" Red corrected.

"No" the man said smiling sadly "my time is almost up. Soon you'll be alone, but you must promise me to never give up."

"What do you mean?" Red asked horrified "we're both going to be getting out of here together like we always said."

"Red" the man said gripping him on the shoulder "I don't have a body to go back to like you do. We are currently in limbo, this house, the lab, the rooms, they don't exist. We have made all these up to stay sane. Our souls are in limbo and with your son doing what he did yesterday means I am no longer needed to power the Tree."

"Aaron" Red said pleadingly "come on mate, you can't believe that?"

"It is the truth" Sir Aaron said letting Red go "in a few days my soul will have been totally absorbed by the Tree of Beginning and my aural presence on Earth will disappear into the wind, as it should have done centuries ago. I have no idea why it held on this long, maybe my interaction with Mew held more surprises than we thought, maybe my time was always destined to be up when my descendent sacrificed something on the same spot I did. Who knows? But I can already feel myself fading. Don't mourn me Red. I am very proud to have been able to get to know you. Now, enough of this being sad nonsense, I'm hungry."

Laughing Red and Aaron walked into their kitchen and began cooking. They had long since stopped caring about the fact they were making something that didn't exist.

Ash

It had been a few days since he talked with his mother, he had spent most of the time at his new place which was looking more and more house-like by the day. He had deliberately kept away from his mum as he knew she'd want to talk about his sacrifice. Ash didn't, so he kept himself busy. He still hadn't seen Sam either. He knew the man would be angry at Ash for what he did to Ilene, but he didn't care that much as he had got the information he needed. He wouldn't have got it otherwise as Ilene would have had them tied up in the courts for months, and that was months they couldn't afford to wait.

Feeling a presence come up behind him he saw that it was Venusaur. He had been very quiet the last few days which concerned Ash.

"Hey Pal" Ash said as he sat down on the hill overlooking his house "are you ok?"

"No" Venusaur said "I'm struggling to adapt to this new body. I'm very slow, it took me half an hour to walk up this hill to talk with you. I don't like it."

"I'm sorry mate" Ash said sighing as he looked at him "I really am. I know you'd have been happy to be Ivysaur for the rest of your life but this is the reality now. We both lost something that day. Something we can never get back" he finished clutching his chest unconsciously.

"What happened?" Venusaur asked concerned "apart from Pikachu none of us know what happened."

Sighing Ash stood up and looked at his friend. "Come on, I may as well tell you all at the same time. You're all going to need to know at some point." On the way down to Pallet Town they chatted about what plans they had for the massive garden they were going to construct.

"It's going to have a path leading directly to Wartortles Lake" Ash said "I want either side of the path to be filled with flowers, there's going to be an overhead archway on the entire path made of trellis and it'll open up onto Wartortles Lake. I've already spoken to the contractors about feeding it from the river and it's been approved by the council because it's a long-term conservationist project. It's going to look beautiful."

"It really is" Venusaur said "I'm concerned about the size of it though and my ability to look after it on my own."

"Oh" Ash said "you won't be on your own. I've received emails from various places that fund areas of outstanding beauty and they're going to be providing us with Pokémon for you to train up. Combee, Butterfree, Ledyba etc. I'm planning on heading to Viridian Forest tomorrow to see if any of the Royal Pidgeots flock want to come and make a nest in the trees to help out too with protection, no one will ever be attacked by Spearow leaving Pallet Town again. It's all in hand. And you're in charge Venusaur of the garden and woods. This is your home for as long as you like. Mums already held interviews for staff to begin running this place so you tell me what you want, I'll tell them and it'll get done. The house will be finished in a months' time and they're going to start on the lake afterwards. They just need to make sure the land can support water. It should seeing as though there's a river not two hundred feet away from us."

"Wow" Venusaur said as they walked on in silence. A few minutes later he asked, "how do you do this?" seeing Ash's confused face he continued "you have so much going on, how do you do it all?"

"I'm not alone" Ash replied as they walked into Pallet Town "I have a great family, and I have a lot of help because I'm not afraid of asking for it should I need it. Professor Oak has been integral to my life. He's been my father for the last twelve years along with being my mentor. Everything I have is thanks to him and my mother. It's strange how much I've changed over the last year. Before then I would never willingly interact with anyone, I was very much a loner. But travelling with you all, listening to people tell me their stories and life really has helped me realise I can't do this on my own."

"So why haven't you spoken to him since you got back home?" Venusaur asked.

"I'm scared" Ash said simply "I know I disappointed him with what I did at Rota. Don't get me wrong I would still do the same if I could re-wind time. We saved Mews life after all with what we did but I probably should have listened to him more and taken emotion out of the equation. He deserved that from me at the very least."

"Well said" a voice said from behind Ash. Turning around he saw it was Professor Oak walking along behind them with Mrs Hakiri "thank you for that Ash."

"It's the truth Professor" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "everything I have is thanks to you and mum. And while it all worked out in the end, I'm sorry if we gave off the impression that your opinion didn't matter."

"Then let's forgive and forget, shall we?" Sam said.

Nodding Ash greeted Mrs Hakiri "Hello Ma'am, this is Venusaur. He's going to be my head gardener at my new house. Has mum already spoken to you about getting your daughters help?"

"She has, she's already ordered all the plants. Erika from Celadon is sending some of her best apprentices to help with the project. There's going to be a lot of activity soon isn't there?" she replied.

"There is, but hopefully it'll die down when it's all done." Ash said turning to Venusaur "her daughter is on the board of governors for the preservation of outstanding beauty. She's the one in charge of finding the plants for you. Remember what I said though, they plant them where you want them to go."

"A Pokémon in charge?" Mrs Hakiri said "well, you see something new every day."

"He wanted a garden to look after, so he's going to get a garden" Ash said simply "Professor, are you free tomorrow?"

"I should be after twelve. Gary will be here though so no antagonism." Sam said.

"I never start it professor, you know that." Ash replied raising an eyebrow.

"I know. It's simply a warning" Sam said. Nodding Ash parted to go to his mum's house. Heading into her back garden he called all his Pokémon out; Pikachu had stayed behind to play with Togepi to give Sylveon and Cleffa a break but joined him when he saw Ash.

"Venusaur asked what happened at the Tree of Beginning and I'd rather tell you all at once rather than individually as you may notice a change in my personality because of the events." Ash said. Over the next few hours he talked and clarified questions they asked until finally he finished with the plans to kidnap Silvers mum.

"We won't be taking part in that" Ash said "there's people far more qualified organising it, plus we likely won't be in Kanto at that point anyway. I plan on speaking with Sam tomorrow about our training."

"So, you lost the ability to feel love?" Bagon asked confused "how does that work?"

"I'm not sure to be honest as my feelings for all of you haven't changed. That's one of the things that's been puzzling me" Ash said frowning.

"Maybe it's your ability to find a mate?" Charizard asked "you did say you focused on that when transferring your aura to Mew."

"You could be right" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "either way we'll find out sooner or later. Now, from Monday we will be leaving this place and won't be returning to civilisation for at least six to eight weeks. We will then come back home and rest for a few weeks before heading to the Plateau for the League. Now the training will be far more intense and harsher than ever before. We have a League to win."

The next day Ash made his way to Sams lab. He felt much happier knowing he still had Sam on his side and he would have hated to fall out with him fully. Walking into the lab he made his way to the office and found Sam sitting down at his desk. He wasn't alone though as Blue and Gary were there too.

"Ah Ash, take a seat. We were just waiting on you." Sam said.

"Why is he here?" Gary said sneering at Ash who simply raised an eyebrow at Gary and smirked.

"Here is here Gary because I asked him to be" Sam said sharply looking at his grandson sternly "Now, out of the four that left Pallet Town last year you two are the only ones that made it past badge three. The fact you got eight and ten respectively is very good so congratulations. That was the easy bit I'm afraid as now comes the true test. The League is just ten weeks away and you are required to be there three days before it starts, I suggest you get there a week beforehand to make sure you register on time. Now, pass me your Pokédexes."

Handing them over Gary immediately saw his was different to Ashs "Hey, how come mines different to his?"

"That's none of your business" Blue said shocking Ash and Gary "we've already been over your attitude, carry on giving your grandfather lip and I'll ban you from participating in the league myself." Gary simply folded his arms over his chest and sulked.

Scanning them Sam waited for the results to appear on the screen on the wall.

GARY OAK: Pokémon Seen 87, Pokémon Caught 110. Collective Battles 762, battles Won 689, Battles lost 73.

He smirked until Ash's stats came up where his face fell.

ASK KETCHUM: Pokémon Seen 137, Pokémon caught 20. Collective Battles 976, Battles won 975, Battles lost 1.

"Damn" Ash said frowning "can we not get that loss stricken from the record? It was unsanctioned by a gym leader after all and wasn't an actual battle."

Laughing Sam just handed Ash his Pokédex back shaking his head. Gary however was still staring at the board. Ash had only lost one battle in ten months? Ash had seen more Pokémon too. At least he'd caught more though. Coming back to himself his arrogant look came back to everyone who was watching him. "Not so great at the catching though eh Ashy Boy?"

"I caught two Legendaries" Ash said wiping the smirk off Garys face "I would say that wins."

Snorting Sam handed Ash a piece of paper. Looking it over Ash quickly signed it and handed it back. "Your request has been approved. How long will you be there?" Sam asked.

"Probably six weeks but no more than two months" Ash said "I plan on coming back here to oversee the finishing of my house and to relax before flying to the league. I've booked a Chalet with four rooms if you want to join mum and I?"

"He has a chalet at the Plateau" Blue said, "as the regional professor he has one next to the Elite Four building."

"Ah right" Ash said nodding "that makes sense. Well, if you get bored and need company my door is open. It's just down the road from the village, chalet 7. You too Blue. Bring Aunt Laura if you like."

Surprised at the invitation Blue simply nodded. Ash stood up and shook Sam's hand before leaving.

"What was that he signed?" Gary asked curiously "and did he really win all of them battles?"

"League business" Sam said "and yes, he did. His loss was against Brock's Golem with his Pikachu."

"I didn't face a Golem" Gary said confused.

"No, you didn't" Sam said "Ash had a much different challenge than you did. Now I suggest you go and prepare for the league, ten weeks is not a great amount of time to prepare."

"I'll be fine" Gary said before leaving.

Shaking his head Blue waited until Gary had left before saying "does it make me a bad person to bet against my son if it comes to a battle between Ash and him, or wish he was more like Ash in how serious he's taking this?"

"No" Sam simply said "it makes you smart. Gary won't win the league, not with that attitude."

"I worked so hard to reach Champion status" Blue said sadly "I know I was beaten days later by Red but I still trained to the bone to reach the summit. Hopefully his loss at the league makes him realise that talent can only get you so far. Without hard work and dedication, you'll always come off second best."

"I agree" Sam said looking at the door "I'll be surprised if he makes it past the top sixteen."

"Me too" Blue said sadly before standing up and leaving his dad to get on with his work.

The next few days Ash packed for what was going to be an arduous task. He would be alone on Mt Silver for the next eight weeks. He was still wary of Mewtwos plan happening, but he couldn't put his life on hold waiting.

"I'll keep in touch as much as I can mum" Ash said as he was standing at the door "I'll be heading to the Pokémon Centre once a week to answer emails and phone you but apart from that I'll be off the grid."

"Stay safe Ash" Delia said smiling sadly at him. "I'm so proud of the man you're becoming. Your father would be too."

Giving her a hug, he mounted Charizard and instructed him which direction to travel in. It would be a two-day journey so he told him to take it easy. Two full days of travelling, especially flying on a Pokémon with the wind battering you was not fun. Ash was lucky he had aura to protect him but even then it was minimal. At dusk on the second day an exhausted Ash and Charizard landed outside the gate to Mt Silver. He knew there would be several security checks, after all he was entering a restricted area, so he patiently handed over his ID and waited for it to be cleared. An hour later he was released and headed along Route 28 to Mt Silver. They came across several Pokémon he hadn't seen before, Sneasel looked interesting but as he had no desire to catch anything he simply walked on and an hour later he reached the Pokémon Centre. Heading inside he wasn't surprised to find it empty; it was nearly 1am after all so he simply scanned his Pokédex on the wall and went into the professor's room where he lay down fully clothed and fell asleep. The next day he introduced himself to Nurse Joy and informed her of how long he'd be there on the mountain. Handing over his Pokémon he made some final preparations before getting them back.

Setting out from the centre Ash took a look around and was stunned by the views. Below him lay Kanto, as far as the eye could see. It really was a very beautiful place and from this distance he could just about see the sea at Vermillion. Turning around he walked up to the entrance of the mountain where a hut was located. Knocking on he spoke to the guard there and informed him of who he was, wrote a phone number for his mum down in case of an emergency before heading into the mountain. A few hours later, after one or two battles to warn off the inhabitants and many tunnels and bridges crossed Ash came across a waterfall that fell into the abyss below. Ash couldn't even see the bottom; he could hear it though and it seemed quite a drop. Off to the side of it he spotted what looked like a cave. Scaling the wall, he pulled himself up onto the ledge there and headed into the cave. It was extremely spacious Ash decided as he set up camp, this would be his home for the next eight weeks.

The next six weeks flew by. Ash very quickly had to battle many of the inhabitants and explain they weren't there to steal anyone's territory, they were simply there to train to get stronger. And stronger they got. Wartortle evolved into Blastoise not long after they got there during a battle with a Pupitar, Bagon had evolved into a Shelgon, Charizard had become much more in tune with his inner fire and wasn't as affected by Solar Power anymore, Pikachu had become a powerhouse and could be regularly seen to be sparing with the local tribe of Tyranitar that was passing through on the way to their mating grounds. Machoke had asked to be evolved but that would have to wait until they got back to Oak's ranch so he could be traded and Venusaur had become much more able to use his weight to move around quicker. Ash had been training alongside them too and had grown a few more inches. He was very tall for a twelve-year-old now at nearly six foot. His body had developed into quite a muscled figure too. All in all, in a few years he would look incredible.

It was as their seventh week started that they felt an enormous spike in the worlds Aura. Concerned Ash packed up and left Mt Silver as quickly as he could. He had long since got used to the various passages and found shortcuts to exit the mountain. As he exited, he walked back to the Pokémon Centre where he was surprised to find Nurse Joy standing outside looking off into the distance. So as not to scare her Ash stayed about ten feet from her and kicked a rock in her direction. Confused she looked around before spotting Ash and smiled at him before frowning again and looking off into the distance. Ash joined her and had to hold in a gasp. There in the distance a huge spike of blue light was hitting the evenings skyline, from it huge black clouds were appearing.

"I need to go" Ash said calling out Charizard and quickly flying off into the night "we need to go home first pal and then onto wherever that is located. We'll rest along the way, but it looks like Mewtwo has finally dealt his hand" the rest of the journey was done in silence. Charizard had become stronger in the last six weeks and was able to make the journey in just over a day and a half. Recalling him he quickly made his way into his mother's home where she was sat on the couch watching the TV.

"Mum" Ash said surprising her. She leapt from the couch and gave him a desperate hug.

"It's time" she said worriedly.

"It is" Ash said as both of them looked at the TV. It was indeed time.

Chapter 34: Chapter 34

Chapter Text

Some passages I've lifted directly from the movie script. There's not a lot but as they're needed I've included it. I don't own any rights to Pokémon or the movies.

Edit: I posted this chapter unfinished by mistake so I'm leaving it as it was. It just means I finish off the Mewtwo arc in the next chapter.

Chapter 34- Mewtwo Strikes Back

The world was changing. Every breathing and living thing felt something seismic shift. People and Pokémon as far as Alola felt it happen. It all started with rain, like everything horrible usually does. Following the rain were black clouds which created thunderstorms as far as the eye could see and no one except a select few knew what was happening. As soon as that light lanced into the air those select few looked on with nervousness as they knew what was coming, and they knew very little could be done to stop it. In Kanto several Legendaries made their way towards the spike of energy. They knew they weren't allowed to interfere, but they could and would aid any Pokémon in peril.

Mewtwo stood atop Fujis fortress with Fuji, his eyes glowing blue as he waved his hand around in a circular fashion and projected his aura onto the world. The spire he was standing on sat next to the amplification tower. For a year now he and Fuji had been creating experiments, seeing what could be controlled and over what distance. He had waited ten years to do this. Fuji had been so close on Cinnabar from doing something no one else had ever done before Mewtwo betrayed them all and destroyed all their work. He was glad he'd fitted the control device inside Mewtwo's head. It allowed him to be tracked and controlled no matter where he was in the world.

Fuji had let him have his independence while he let the dust settle from the Cinnabar Incident but after a few years Fuji planned again. Only this time he wouldn't let his creation foil him so he decided to use Pokémon Tower to stage his first trial of the control device. Mewtwo didn't really have any choice but to return to his rightful master. Oh, Silver may think he was the one to control it, but Fuji knew he would wipe Silver out any time he wanted it to. He watched on with glee as the young Ketchum took out the two cells at Mt Moon and Power Plant. He was long gone before he reached Lavender Tower but Lavender Tower was a success, despite how it abruptly ended. The meddling kid put a stop to it, but Fuji was happy. His experiment had worked. And so it would again, only this time Mewtwo would be on hand to protect the tower at all costs.

He knew that once Ash attacked Rota that the time for his big reveal would be very close. He had after all planted the thought in Ilene's head to claim the Time Flower. Retrieving it and placing inside the Queens chamber was a doddle for Mewtwo but the only thing that was worrying him at the moment was the independence Mewtwo was still showing despite knowing who its master was. He had tried for years now to change the control device to wipe out any thought of freedom but to do so would take Mewtwo's cooperation, something it wasn't willing to do.

Looking over the sea from the fortress he decided it was time. Mewtwo would strike back.

Ash

After giving his mother a hug goodbye Ash had raced towards Cinnabar on Charizard as the spiral of light was coming from close to there however he was stopped mid-flight by a Dragonite. Landing Ash accepted what appeared to be an invitation on New Island to a Pokémon tournament and the chance to meet the world's greatest Pokémon Master. The ferry from Old Shore Wharf near Cinnabar would be the location of the ferry and flying there took the better part of the day. Landing he recalled Charizard and walked into the harbour building only to be stunned at it being full.

"We have an invitation to a tournament on New Island" one guy said, "every invitation says the same thing, 'we would know when the time came'. Well, the time is clearly now. So let us past."

"You cannot travel in the storm" Jenny said blocking the way from them boarding the ferry. "And I have forbidden the captain of the ferry from travelling while the sea is so rough. I'm sorry, but it's just not going to happen. Not only that but Nurse Joy has gone missing so should you get in trouble we have no way of healing your Pokémon as the centre is shut."

"The prophets have predicted the return of the winds of water. For years, I have prayed that mankind would never witness that deadly storm ever again." A lady said off to the side of Jenny causing her to frown and roll her eyes.

"Isn't that just a legend?" a young woman asked.

"The ancient writings tell of a storm wiping out all but a few Pokémon. In their sorrow the water of their tears somehow restored their lives. But there are no Pokémon tears today, just waters in which no one can survive." The lady said dramatically causing Ash to roll his eyes.

"And that's why the ferry to New Island has been cancelled." Jenny said with finality.

"I'll make my own way there then" A man said stubbornly as he walked outside and released a Gyarados "I'm not missing the tournament." Climbing aboard his Pokémon he quickly headed off into the choppy waters while Jenny looked on in exasperation. A few other trainers followed him and boarded their own Pokémon, risking the treacherous waters for a chance to see the greatest trainer in the world.

Ash wondered who it was, he had not heard of anyone surpassing his father's achievement but then again it was twenty two years ago that Red achieved Master status. Releasing Charizard he asked him to fly above the clouds and head to the spiral of light. He couldn't see below him, but he was thankful he wasn't riding Blastoise to New Island. All too quickly the storms eye came into view and the weather stopped affecting them. Landing on a jetty Ash looked around at where he was. In front of him was a huge gothic looking palace, with five minarets reaching high into the sky. Pulsing his aura out he felt it. The presence from Cerulean Cave.

"It's here Pi" Ash said "Mewtwo is here."

"I know" Pikachu said looking up "I can feel him too."

Behind him Ash heard shuffling. Turning around he saw the man from before getting off his Gyarados and walk up to Ash. Looking at him appraisingly he held out his hand. "The names Fergus."

"Ash" Ash replied shaking his hand as he turned back to the palace.

"Someone's compensating for something eh?" Fergus said laughing.

"So it would seem" Ash said chuckling. He stopped when he felt another person walking closer as the doors opened and a lady walked out.

"It's Nurse Joy" Ash said quietly "the one who went missing."

"It does look like her doesn't it" Fergus whispered back.

"Greetings trainers. My master bids you welcome to New Island. Please follow me" Joy said turning around and leading them all into a vast entrance hall with curved staircases on either side of a fountained lobby leading up onto a balcony. As he entered Ash immediately recognised the two other trainers from the Jetty at Old Shore Wharf.

"Are we the only four to make it?" Ash asked Joy.

"Yes, only the worthy have passed my masters first test" Joy said "please, release your Pokémon and relax. My master will soon join us." Joy turned around and walked off to the side where a door was hidden in the shadows. Strangely she just stood, staring at the door in the darkness. Fergus gave Ash a shake of the head before walking up to the other two trainers and greeting them.

"Hi. Im Neesha"

"I'm Corey"

"Ash"

"Fergus"

"So, is this it?" Ash asked "we're the only ones here for the tournament? It's going to be a pretty shit tournament with just four people."

"Maybe we'll all face off against each other and the winner of the most battles gets to face the Master" Neesha said looking over at her Pokémon who was milling around.

"Maybe" Ash said looking around "or maybe not" he finished quietly looking up at the ceiling intently. The other three looked up too but saw nothing. Deciding this trainer was strange they all started a conversation about who's Pokémon was best. All the while Ash glared at the ceiling. He could feel Mewtwo hiding, waiting. But what was it waiting for? Ash walked up to the fountain and stared upwards making everyone stop talking.

Giving each other awkward glances, they all stood up. And they all jumped when Nurse Joy's voice was heard from the side of them.

"You are about to meet the greatest Pokémon master on earth."

The time had come, Ash thought. At last, six years of training and waiting and fighting and bleeding. All which had led up to this point. Ash steeled himself as he felt a hatch open in the ceiling and an enormous aural presence floated down until it was ten feet from them hovering above the water.

"Yes, the greatest Pokémon master is a Pokémon himself" Joy said, "I present to you my master Mewtwo."

"What?" Fergus said, "a Pokémon cannot be a trainer or master."

"Silence fool" Mewtwo projected telepathically to everyone, everyone except Ash that was who didn't hear anything Mewtwo was saying. He knew he was talking by the reactions of the others, but Ash didn't want to open his mind to Mewtwo and give him any chance of taking over him. Ash's eyes briefly glowed blue as he lightly coated his body with aura as he scanned Mewtwo. Something pinged and Ash zoned in on it. Very interesting he mused.

"He's not a true Pokémon" Ash said suddenly making everyone look over at him "he's a clone, an experiment. Aren't you?"

"I am a Pokémon!" Mewtwo shouted angrily throwing everyone back from him with a psychic blast. Ash merely rolled and stood up in one fluid motion before walking forwards again.

Before he could say anything though Fergus charged forwards and shouted "If you're a Pokémon then you can be battled and captured like any other Pokémon. Gyarados, Hyper Beam"

His Gyarados charged forward and launched a huge Hyper Beam at Mewtwo who looked unfazed as he psychically returned the move which smashed into the water dragon and sent it flying knocked out. "Pathetic" Mewtwo said as he picked up Fergus who started flailing before throwing him into his downed Pokémon.

"Childs play" Mewtwo uttered before spotting Joy "your usefulness has ended" he finished, his eyes briefly glowing before Nurse Joy collapsed onto her knees. The other trainers quickly rushed forward to check on her as she dazedly shook her head and wondered where she was.

"You are in my home" Mewtwo said "you were useful for a while, now you're no longer needed. I've wiped the last few weeks from your memory. It wasn't necessary for me to do so as you'll all be under my control soon, but I get these bouts of whimsy at times."

"Where's your master?" Ash said stepping forward "and don't lie Mewtwo, I know he's here too."

"I have no master" Mewtwo said looking puzzled when Ash didn't respond.

"Oh" Ash said smirking "if you're wondering why I'm not reacting it's because your telepathy doesn't work on me."

Growing angry Mewtwo pulled Joy towards him and gripped her head as his eyes glowed blue. "You are arrogant" Joy said robotically "I do not know how you are resisting me, but I will find out."

"Oh, that's not a secret" Ash said disregarding Joy being controlled "I'm an Aura Wielder. In fact, I'm the most powerful aura wielder on the planet. Your psychic power has no hold over me."

"We will see" Joy said. "as for the rest of you, you humans created me with no other purpose but to be your slave, you're far too dangerous a species to be allowed to live. The Pokémon that follow your commands are weak willed and will die also. From the ashes I will create a new world, one in which Pokémon rule over it with me as its leader."

"Only you're not" Ash said "because you yourself have a master. So again, where is he?"

"I have no master!" Joy said.

"Look, we can continue this all day. But we both know I'm right. Now for the final time, where is that bastard Fuji?" Ash said looking straight at Mewtwo.

"Lavender Towns Fuji?" Neesha asked curiously "didn't he disappear a year ago?"

"Oh, he didn't disappear" Ash said looking at her "he left with Mewtwo after he failed in controlling the people of Lavender Town. Fuji is this clone's creator, twelve years ago Mewtwo was created by Fuji on the orders of Team Rocket, but he rebelled when he found out he was created to have no free will and to obey its boss unconditionally. Only, Fuji was acquitted when the main witness at his trial went missing."

"How do you know this?" Mewtwo asked.

"The main witness was my father Red Ketchum. You should remember him; you battled him at Viridian Gym just before you collapsed the building and fled. I don't know what you did with his body though. That's the only question I have unanswered from what happened back then." Ash said.

"Ah yes" Mewtwo said remembering "he put up a terrific fight."

"I know" Ash said "I saw it. But the question still remains, where is your master?"

"I do not have one" Mewtwo said.

"Oh, give it up already" Ash said "I know he's around here somewhere. So, where is the coward hiding?"

"I grow tired of this conversation" Mewtwo said "You were invited here to serve as witnesses to my rise before you die. Your Pokémon will not be spared either, instead they will be cloned and killed. I have no use for human slaves."

"He's hiding, isn't he?" Ash said interrupting him. Ash was determined to annoy Mewtwo anyway he could "you're just too scared to admit that a human owns you."

"No human can conquer me!" Mewtwo said angrily.

"Then you won't mind proving it in a battle, will you?" Corey said defiantly. "If I'm going to die then I will do it head on, not like the coward you are."

"A battle?" Mewtwo said smirking "very well."

Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue as the wall behind him retracted into the ceiling and he floated into the room behind it. Following Corey and Neesha gasped at what they were seeing. In front of them was a huge battlefield.

"Mewtwo planned this" Ash said wryly.

"Indeed, I did" Mewtwo said still holding Joy in a psychic grip "like many trainers I decided to start off with a Charmander, Squirtle and Bulbasaur to clone. Over the last year they have quickly become perfect clones. However, I knew I needed stronger Pokémon, so I cloned their final evolutions and used their genetic materials to finish what I started." From an opening in the far wall a Charizard, Venusaur and Blastoise came walking out from the hole. Immediately Ash's aura scanned them, they seemed devoid of a lot of aura but discreetly he took out Dexter and scanned them. The results made Ash smirk, Mewtwo had made a fatal flaw when he cloned them.

"Which of you will challenge me first?" Mewtwo asked.

"I will" Corey said "Let's go Bruteroot" he finished releasing his Venusaur. Ash knew that his was far stronger but shook his head as he released his Charizard to watch. Immediately Charizards gaze whipped to the cloned one who stood there impassively. Whispering some words to Charizard they both watched on as Core was easily beaten. Honestly her move choice was pretty poor but to be beaten by one move? That was pathetic. Something was dodgy here.

"I guess it's my turn" Neesha said as she released her Blastoise "use Hydro Pump". Ash watched on in disgust as her Blastoise was overpowered in one move too.

Walking forwards he heard Mewtwo say "you may as well give up. My clones are far too powerful."

"No, they're not" Ash said laughing "it's just they faced people who are crap at battling" immediately the other trainers shouted in protest. "You were both beaten in one move. Don't act like you've trained your Pokémon well if you're beaten in one move" he finished silencing them. Turning to Charizard he whispered in his ear before Charizard smirked and flew onto the field.

"Begin" Mewtwo said as his Charizard flew forward quickly at high speed. Honestly, from an observational standpoint Mewtwo's Charizard wasn't bad, it just wasn't as strong as Mewtwo believed him to be. The match had gone on for a few minutes now as Charizard was protect-stalling and Mewtwo was starting to become more and more frustrated.

"Not fun, is it?" Ash asked Mewtwo drawing his gaze from the battle "when you can't use your psychic power to cheat your way to victory. Oh yes, I knew from the start that you were cheating. Your Pokémon aren't super powerful. But you made a few errors when cloning them as you never took into account the natures that natural born Pokémon have, I did. You never took into account training against their nature's weaknesses, I did. You never took into account the amount of moves a Pokémon can learn, I did, and you never thought about the weaknesses of their moves, I did. What this means" he finished as he looked at the battlefield to see Ash's Charizard throw the clone onto the battlefield where it didn't get up "is that you lose." Charizard put his foot on the clone's neck, snorted and glared at Mewtwo as if to say, "your move."

Mewtwo was speechless. How did Ash know what he was doing?

"What do you mean?" Neesha asked astounded Ash had won.

"Mewtwo looked to make his Pokémon as strong as possible by cloning them to be perfect" Ash said "Only no Pokémon is ever perfect because of their natures. My Charizard has a Mild Nature. That means it is plus special attack and minus defence. Over the year I've had him we've constantly trained to overcome his natural weakness by getting him used to taking attacks. And when he became a Charizard we used Flare Blitz over and over until he stopped being affected by the recoil. Mewtwo's Charizard has likely never trained before therefore it has no defence against recoil moves and as such it wore itself out. Charizard just needed to wait which is why I had him use Protect a lot to see what moves it had. Not only that but he was using Psychic to protect against the damage your Pokémon's moves used. It's why a simple Tackle and Vine Whip beat a fully evolved Pokémon. He was enhancing his Pokémon's moves and cheating."

"But how was your Charizard protected?" Corey asked stunned.

"I've trained my Pokémon's defences by constantly firing Aura Spheres at them" Ash said creating one in his hand "this had the unintended consequence of making them resistant to Psychic attacks as Aura counters psychic."

"A mistake he won't make again" a voice said from a balcony. Looking up they all saw an elderly man leaning against the railings. "You were pathetic Mewtwo. I gave you chance after chance to create the perfect Pokémon and still you failed? How you survived the cloning process I will never know."

"Why don't you disable the failsafe, and I will show you how pathetic I really am" Mewtwo said rising up in the air and looking directly at the man who merely smirked.

"Mr Fuji, I presume" Ash said stepping forward.

"Mr Ketchum, I presume" the man countered earning a nod from Ash.

"Hey Mewtwo," Ash said conversationally to Mewtwo "you know I can disable it right?"

"What nonsense is this?" Mewtwo asked menacingly.

"The failsafe chip that's implanted in your head" Ash said earning a gasp from Fuji "I can disable it."

"You lie!" Mewtwo said angrily causing Ash to laugh.

"I have no reason to lie." Ash said laughing "I can see it, just above your frontal lobe, plain as day. I do wonder why you haven't disabled it yourself."

"Because he cannot" Fuji said smirking "and you're lying. Mewtwo get away from him."

Mewtwo grudgingly moved away from Ash who smirked at Fuji. "Scared, eh? Scared of me disabling it and him killing you I presume?"

"Yes" Mewtwo said looking at Ash "he is."

"Enough" Fuji said lazily, masking his concern and addressing everyone "you were all brought here for a reason. To supply us with an army of clones to take over the world and graciously you obliged. So, Mewtwo, do your job" Fuji pressed a button on a control pad on his arms and walked off. Immediately Ash began to give chase but was stopped by an attack coming from Mewtwo. Dodging out of the way Ash watched on as from several panels black Pokéballs came out and as if sentient began to capture all the Pokémon that were milling around. Ash recalled Charizard and began throwing Aura Spheres and Lances at Mewtwo who had to dodge frantically out of the way. Ash clipped him with one and sent him flying into a pillar.

Looking around he saw the trainers panicking as they tried to fight off the balls. Deciding he was better stopping them at the source Ash raced off down a corridor and down several others. He quickly became lost, but he could still feel Mewtwo's presence in the battle room. Ahead though Ash isolated Fujis and made his way through several rooms. Fuji was ahead, until suddenly he was below Ash and then behind Ash. Confused Ash looked behind him but found nothing but an empty corridor. Deciding to go forward Ash made it to the last room which looked like an office. Warily he walked in and looked around but strangely nothing seemed out of place. Looking at the desk Ash rifled through the drawers until he came across a folder with a name on it causing Ash's eyes to widen before he quickly pocketed the folder. He had a mission to complete after all.

Looking around the office he was stumped. Sitting down in the chair he looked around. From behind his ears came a breeze, looking around he saw a Mewtwo statue whose eyes were a deep red. Ash quickly stood up and began feeling all over the statue until he came to the eyes. They retracted! Pressing them in the statue moved to the side and a hole in the ground opened up. Looking down he noticed it was a slide. That explained how Fuji had gone from being in front of him to below and behind. Jumping down Ash travelled the entirety of it before he came shooting out of the other end into a huge room that was dominated by a huge machine with around forty tubes dotted around the walls. Standing up Ash watched as the black Pokéballs were loaded onto a conveyor belt and went into the machine. A huge screen over the machine showed what Pokémon it was and around him various tubes began to fill up as the machine scanned the balls. It was the cloning machine! Ash watched on in amazement as his fellow trainers Pokémon were cloned. The original balls were then ejected out onto the back of the machine and into a crate.

Hearing a voice, he crept to the office that observed the machine. Listening in to the one-sided conversation Ash smirked.

"Ash Ketchum is here…no I cannot deal with him, his aura has made a mockery of Mewtwo's psychic powers…no, I doubt there's anything we could use to control him…he managed to escape in the melee and was chasing me…no, he won't find the trapdoor and there's cameras all over the lab entrance, I'll know if he reaches here…yes, but I don't know how long…I just said I don't know!"

Ash decided it would be a great time to enter the office and snuck up on Fuji. Before he could react Ash knocked him out with an Aura Sphere and grabbed the phone before it fell to the floor. Picking it up he listened in to who he assumed was Silver.

"I shall be there in three hours Fuji" came a suave and cultured voice "keep Ketchum busy until then. I shall deal with him."

"Oh, you will?" Ash said cheerfully sitting in the seat and putting his feet on the desk "do tell me how?"

"Ketchum?" the voice growled "I should have known Fuji would be this incompetent."

"He's not the first member of your team I've taken out" Ash said cheerfully "none of them particularly stood out to me you know? You may want to consider getting better grunts."

"You know I'll get you for this Ketchum?" Silver said.

"Oh, fear not cousin" Ash said shocking Silver "I'll find you myself very soon. Stay safe and sound in Goldenrod won't you? Being sound matters just as much as being safe you know? Ta-ta for now cousin." He finished before hanging up on him. Looking down at Fuji he wondered what to do. Making a decision he stripped Fuji, hating every second of it. Donning his glove, he quickly got up to speed on the various controls. Dragging Fuji out to the machine and lying him against the conveyor belt he switched it on with the glove.

Slapping Fuji awake he quickly became aware that not only was he naked, but a pissed off Aura user was staring at him. "You know," Ash said conversationally "I've been waiting for this moment for a few months now. Ever since I found out you were part of the Cinnabar Incident. Now, I have some important questions for you Fuji and for each answer that dissatisfies me I shall break a finger, or an arm or even a knee. Ok? Ok. What happened on Cinnabar?"

"You already know" Fuji said sweating slightly "we created Mewtwo, and he destroyed the lab in his rage and erupted the volcano."

Snap…followed by a scream.

"That's number one" Ash said kneeling down to look at him. "I know it was Blaine that erupted the volcano at the command of your boss Silver. I found your journal hidden amongst the wreckage the day before you killed him."

"That wasn't me, that was Mewtwo" Fuji said panting. Another snap and a scream

"Do not take me for a fool Fuji" Ash said standing up "Mewtwo was only there on your orders. Ok, next question. What happened at Viridian Gym?"

"I don't know" Fuji said before Ash grabbed his knee and placed his foot on it "I swear, I was in jail at the time. All I know is that Silver fought Red and they both disappeared."

"Mewtwo appeared" Ash said "allowing Silver to escape before he fought my father. Where did Mewtwo take my father's body?"

"I don't know" Fuji said. A loud crack reverberated around the building followed by a scream of pain. Holding on to his newly broken leg Fuji was openly crying.

"Wrong answer Fuji" Ash shouted, "I'll ask one more time, where is my father's body."

"I swear I don't know" Fuji said weeping "I really don't know. Mewtwo doesn't always obey me. I didn't know your father's body has disappeared. I thought he was buried in the rubble of Viridian Gym. The league had a funeral for him. I swear, that's all I know."

Ash had had enough. He stood up, forced Fuji to his feet and he shoved him inside the machine head first where it quickly jammed. Ash walked away to the back as the machine began to smoke from the inside. He heard a brief yell before silence and a sickening squelch was heard as at the end chute Fujis head came rolling out. Grimacing Ash threw Fujis head onto the floor before taking the basket of Pokémon and walking over to a large open section. Using his glove, he released the Pokémon from their black balls and smashed them all. The assembled Pokémon looked around in confusion at their counterparts in tubes before Ash cleared his throat. Before he could speak however the tubes suddenly lit up and all the Pokémon growled as out of the bottom their clones appeared and began making their way to the door that had opened on the wall.

"Listen up" Ash commanded after the last Pokémon had left with the doorway closing behind them "when we leave here, we're likely going to be made to fight your counterparts. Now my Pokémon weren't caught so they'll help out as much as they can so hopefully we can end this soon. I'll take on Mewtwo. This is life or death. Do not choose poorly. Now come on, we have a psychic to fight." Ash turned around and used an Aura Sphere and shattered the wall causing it to explode outwards.

Mewtwo was furious. Ketchum had got away during the melee, so he punished the trainers by forcing them to hand over their Pokéballs to be captured by the shadow Pokéballs. He was still pondering over Ketchum's words when he felt a spike of anger before it quickly disappeared. That came from the cloning room. He would have to visit there soon. Before that though he had a world to conquer.

"Tonight, is your last night alive. But before we go, I want to thank you for your presents."

"What presents?" Neesha asked terrified. Ash seemed to be the only one capable of battling this monster and he had disappeared. She realised how out of their league they really were as they were quickly disabled and forced to hand over their Pokémon.

"Why my new army" Mewtwo said as he held his hand up to the sky where it glowed blue. Several minutes later the wall opened up and their Pokémon came walking out. Elation soon turned to fear though when they realised these weren't their Pokémon. "My clone army" he announced triumphantly at his fellow clones "and these are just the start. Soon I will have thousands at my command. But for my first real command, kill them."

Immediately they all began charging their attacks before from nowhere the wall exploded covering the field with dust and debris. From the middle of the dust a blue silhouetted figure strode forward followed by many Pokémon. Releasing his own Pokémon Ash created an Aura Sphere and threw it at Mewtwo who was too stunned to move. It smashed straight into his chest throwing him backwards into the pillar creating a new dust field. Immediately fighting broke out between the clones and the real Pokémon. Ash lowered his aura shield as he walked forward.

"Your time is over before it began" Ash said staring at the pillar as a blue sphere lit up and Mewtwo came floating forwards parting the dust.

"Your Pokémon are strong" Mewtwo said. Surprisingly Ash understood him.

"Ah, so you do have a voice?" Ash said smirking. "I was wondering when you'd use it. So, where do we go from here?"

"I go and conquer the world; you are going to lie at the bottom of the ocean" Mewtwo said as he threw the first attack at Ash who narrowly dodged it and threw an Aura Sphere back at Mewtwo. The fighting continued on fiercely for a long time before Ash and Mewtwo stood across from each other panting. Mewtwo's attacks packed a punch when they hit, and they nearly always hit. Ash was going to be covered in bruises in the morning should he survive this.

"How are you so strong?" Mewtwo asked concerned that he hadn't finished Ash off already.

"I was created by Arceus to combat you" Ash said "I have trained for the last six years in aura usage for this very fight. I've learned a lot over the last six years, but it's been the last year that's been the most enlightening."

"You were created by Arceus to combat me?" Mewtwo asked sceptically "why?"

"Because of your plans." Ash responded, "she knew this would happen, but because of her edicts she could not react herself."

"Ah yes" Mewtwo said sneering "her edicts. They're the cowards way out of dealing with issues."

"You're right" Ash said shocking Mewtwo "as I said the last year has been very enlightening. Before then I trained with this moment in mind but the last year changed everything. I've killed Team Rocket members several times, fought and won against an Ancient and nearly died, fought Team Rocket some more, fell down a one hundred foot hole and had to fight a fossil that would happily have eaten me, seen my mother fall to pieces when we found out what happened to my father, turned back time to revive a dead Mew while sacrificing a piece of my humanity to do so and now this. All in the space of twelve months."

"Mew died?" Mewtwo asked "and you revived her? Was that what happened six weeks ago?"

"Yeah" Ash said shaking his head from the memory "I had to give up my ability to love as a sacrifice so that Dialga and Celebi could turn back time to revive her. The ecosystem where she lived was long since dead because those bastards at Team Rocket captured and performed experiments on her over ten years ago."

"So why do you not agree that the world doesn't need her?" Mewtwo asked curiously.

"Because of the world I've seen" Ash said smiling "despite everything she's done to me I can't stay mad. I've seen Pokémon come to each other's aid to protect their homes, I've seen humans sacrifice their ambitions to help Pokémon in distress, I've seen Pokémon fight against their very nature to help one another, I've seen humans and Pokémon living freely together, each helping the other out. She brought me my family. Life is a gift, one that very few get to experience. All life has meaning, including your own Mewtwo. I apologise for my earlier comments. You ARE a Pokémon. And your life has just as much value as the natural born Pokémon. I just wish you could see it."

Mewtwo stared in shock at Ash's words letting them sink in. He thought back to his first friend Amber-two along with the clones of the Kanto starters. Thinking of her always made him sad as he keenly felt her loss and to this day he felt it. Something wet dripped onto his foot. Wonderingly he looked down and felt his face. He was crying again. Looking up he saw Ash looking surprised but happy and from nowhere rage took over. How could he stand there and preach happiness when his best friend was dead, and he was created to serve humans?

Ash saw the change and shook his head. Preparing for another battle he gathered up an Aura Sphere as Mewtwo gathered up his power, only he kept on building. Ash copied and soon the balls were as big as they were. Roaring to the heavens Mewtwo threw it at Ash who matched him, and the attacks collided. The world gave way, it turned black and every Pokémon in the world felt the shockwave of aura that had been used. Ash was thrown backwards into a pillar where his head collided with a sickening crack, Mewtwo was also thrown into a pillar where his back hit the pillar with a horrible snap, and he seemed to bend around the pillar. And the sound of silence reigned.

Hall Of Origin

Arceus watched on in concern as she felt the spike in aura from Mewtwo as he launched his plans for world domination. Immediately she called on every legendary in the world to come to the Hall of Origin. They all felt the aura wave and appeared within half an hour. Everyone except the Kanto birds and Mew.

"It has begun" Arceus said to them all seriously before roaring to the heavens as they all watched Ash travel to Old Shore Wharf and then on to New Island. His interactions with Mewtwo were interesting to say the least. His observations about battling intrigued many of them as they had stopped training a long time ago, comfortable in their power. Many decided that it might be time to train again.

Watching Ash escape from Mewtwo and his chase of Fuji was interesting and all of them looked on in horror though at the sight of the cloning machine. If any one of them were caught by Team Rocket, it would likely be a disaster as there would be cloned Legendaries roaming around causing all sorts of havoc. His way of disabling the machine was interesting to say the least and they all breathed a sigh of relief. At least now the machine couldn't be used.

Seeing him come out of the dust was unbelievably cool and his actions probably saved those trainers' life. The battle though was monstrous. Many of them shook their heads at the senseless fighting that was going on and it saddened them to think that they could have helped put a stop to this. Ash's impassioned speech caused many a tear as they all felt the same way. Life was a gift, one that was often overlooked because of everyone's personal selfishness. It was why they'd fought against the Ancients and their creed. Slavery still took place but thankfully it was in isolated parts and quickly stamped out when discovered.

All of them saw the change in Mewtwo and Arceus became deeply worried as they gathered up the energy for their final attack. They looked on in horror as they heard Ash and Mewtwo's bodies collide with the pillars. It was a good ten minutes later when the dust finally settled, and they looked on in horror at Ash and Mewtwos bodies. It was very clear Ash was dead. Watching Ash's Pokémon come over and nudge his corpse filled several of them with rage as they glared at their mother. Seeing Pikachu break down and cry was the final straw and several of them could be heard shouting at her. Surprised by the vehemence it took a minute to realise what had happened. Seeing Ash dead had driven her into shock.

"It wasn't supposed to be this way" she said quietly shaking her magnificent head "he was supposed to win and live."

"Well, he's not" Darkrai shouted uncaring "your chosen one is dead. All because you refused to act ten years ago. We've said repeatedly you need to act. And now he's dead."

"I have told you time and time again that I cannot act until I have all of my plates back together." Arceus said looking at him sternly "I cannot risk being injured."

"Well how are you going to get your plates back now the one you told us is key to getting them back is now dead?" Darkrai asked shocking her into silence.

"How indeed" Dialga said walking forwards "it seems Ash is integral to the future; I have seen him several times in the future. How can that be if he is dead?"

"Sacrifice" Mew said sadly looking up at the screen "Sacrifice is the only known method of reversing time. We know this as we witnessed it not long ago."

Arceus made a decision. Stepping forward she roared, and the world split open as she walked onto the scene at New Island. The assembled Legendaries looked on in shock as Arceus walked the Earth again.

"Greetings Pikachu" Arceus said looking around at the assembled crowd "you know who I am?" Pikachu just numbly nodded as he cried on Ash. "It was not supposed to be this way Pikachu."

"And yet it was" Charizard said glaring at her "yet again Ash put his life on the line to do your bidding and you're nowhere to be seen."

"Be mindful of who you speak to youngling" Arceus said sternly.

"I am speaking to you" he said defiantly "this is not the first or even second time Ash has put his life on the line for you. Why are you here?"

"I am here to right a wrong" Arceus said as she looked around and saw Mewtwo "two wrongs."

Behind her a scuffle could be heard as the Three Kanto legendary birds and Mew appeared. "How very curious" Arceus said quietly as she watched Mew go over to a still breathing Mewtwo. He blearily opened his eyes and found he couldn't move. He tried to lift his arm and found he couldn't and then all of a sudden his vision was filled with pink and his body began to glow. His bones audibly snapped back into place and soon enough he was healed and could stand. It was a wobbly stance, but he was healed. Looking around he immediately took a defensive step back as he took in who was assembled. The three birds he dismissed, it was the sight of Ash's Pokémon looking at him in rage and Arceus huge frame that nearly made him gulp.

Dismissively Arceus snorted and turned to Pikachu. "There is a way he can be saved; the same way Mew was a few moons ago."

"I'll do it" Pikachu said immediately interrupting Arceus. Sighing Arceus looked around as through the slit came Dialga and Palkia followed closely by Giratina. The pressure of the world became immensely heavy at the four titans being in the same place at the same time.

"Very well" Arceus said turning to Dialga. "Dialga, you know what to do."

Stepping back, she allowed Dialga to walk forward until he stood before Pikachu "we're back here again little mouse".

"Indeed, we are" Pikachu said looking over at Ash "I'm ready."

Nodding Dialga was about to roar to the heavens when a voice stopped him.

"Wait" Zapdos said walking forward and speaking to Dialga and Pikachu "I cannot allow my grandson to go ahead with this. I shall take his place."

"But you're the Kanto Lord of Zapdos'" Arceus said walking forward.

"And I have been for centuries. However, my grandson and his trainer are destined for greatness. I shall take his place" he reiterated firmly walking forward and placing his foot on Ash's heart.

Dialga looked at Arceus who reluctantly nodded and stepped back. Dialga looked around as if waiting for someone else to interrupt. Celebi appeared alongside and together they began the ritual only this time Zapdos concentrated on giving up his aura so that Ash could live again. Everyone watched in awe as time rewound itself and the world turned a bright yellow as Zapdos' aura began to pour into Ash. It only took a few minutes but to those watching on it felt like a lifetime. When it was done Zapdos had disappeared, and a lightning bolt appeared over Ash's heart.

Mewtwo watched on in silence at what was happening. A Pokémon willingly giving up its life for a human disgusted him. The fact it was a Legendary only furthered that disgust. It was only Mew hovering at the side of him and telling him about Ash that stopped him teleporting away. It was clear all his plans had gone up in smoke. Just who was this Ash Ketchum to command the loyalty of so many Pokémon? Deciding to see how this finished he stayed.

He wasn't to know it but dying had erased the block Arceus had placed on his ability to love. Zapdos final act had made Ash whole again. Gasping he sat up and looked around bewildered. Looking at the Pokémon around him confused Ash, when he set eyes on Arceus however his thoughts changed.

"What did you do?" he asked.

"I righted several wrongs" Arceus said before turning around, giving Mewtwo a stern look and leaving through the portal as her entourage followed her leaving behind just the two remaining birds, Mew, Mewtwo and the assembled people.

"Can someone explain what happened?" Ash said.

Elsewhere

A man raced down a hallway not even bothering to stop at the receptionist. Flinging the doors open he interrupted a clearly important meeting but that didn't matter.

"Sir, it's your mother. She's gone"

Chapter 35: Chapter 35

Chapter Text

Chapter 35- Do I Have Anything Left? At all?

Silver shot up from his chair and went to the video phone and rang his mum's number. The rest of the people in the meeting looked at each other in silence praying she answered. It rang out. Frantically he tried again and received the same response.

Turning around they could see the fury etched onto his face. Walking over to the grunt who had given him the news he gripped him and asked "how do you know she's gone? Who told you? And why didn't you protect her?"

"This note was left Sir" the grunt said handing over a piece of paper "we were ambushed Sir. We stood no chance against Lance and Blue."

Mutters rang around the office as Silver read the missive left behind. Why would the Champion of Kanto and Lance kidnap their leader's mother.

"Send a team to kidnap Sam Oak immediately" Silver said as he sat back down.

"We tried sir" the grunt said, "it didn't work."

"Why" Silver asked furiously.

"They were prepared sir. His Charizard and Dragonite demolished the team. Only two members of the team survived" the grunt said nervously.

"Dead? How many?" Silver asked.

"Eight Sir" the grunt said.

At that moment another two people came racing into the meeting. It was Jessie and James looking like they'd just been through a war.

"Sir, the Johto and Kanto Elite Four and the G-Men have hit us. The Lake of Rage, Mahogany Town, Goldenrod Casino. All have been raided. Ariana and Proton are dead. We barely survived the Pallet Town massacre. We teleported to various places and everywhere was up in smoke, Rocket Agents bodies were littered everywhere." James said.

Silver sat back in shock. In the space of a year every single thing he owned and made money from had been destroyed. How could this happen? Everyone in the boardroom was silent and no one dared speak because it might be the last time they ever did.

"Somebody told them of the places I own. Jessie, James, I am promoting you two to Executives. You two have a week to find out who the leak is. I want their head on my desk by the weeks end. Domino, I want you to pay my father a visit. I have a feeling it was him that leaked my mother's address."

At that moment his videophone rang. Curious he answered and was met with Fujis face. Taking it off video he spoke to a frantic sounding Fuji. Apparently, Ketchum had raided New Island and was in pursuit of him.

"I shall be there in three hours Fuji" Silver said as a plan came to mind. He still had Mewtwo, he could still act "keep Ketchum busy until then. I shall deal with him."

"Oh, you will?" Ash's voice came from the other end shocking him "do tell me how?"

"Ketchum?" Silver growled in anger as the people at the table gasped in shock "I should have known Fuji would be this incompetent."

"He not the first member of your team I've taken out" Ash said cheerfully "none of them particularly stood out to me you know?"

"You know I'll get you for this Ketchum?" Silver said.

"Oh, fear not cousin" Ash said shocking Silver "I'll find you myself very soon. Stay safe and sound in Goldenrod won't you? Being sound matters just as much as being safe you know? Ta-ta for now cousin." The line went dead. Silver stared at the phone in shock for several moments at the conversation that just took place. Ash knew who he was and knew his relationship to him. He would never admit to anyone but right then he was terrified. He had read Ash's dossier so many times that he felt like a close relation. But his exploits were not to be sneered at.

Turning around he made his way back to his seat and put his head in his hands.

"Ash Ketchum" he growled "has just killed Fuji. He has raided New Island and taken control of the island." Looking at Jessie and James he continued "you two are to eliminate his mother. I want her dead. We'll see how he likes having his mother out of the picture."

"Sir," Jessie said scared "that won't be possible. Sam Oak is staying with her. None of us stand a chance against his Charizard or Dragonite."

"You cowards" Domino screeched standing up "the boss gave you an order so get to it."

"No!" James said standing up and shocking Domino "I saw that fiend Charizard rip apart people like they were made of tissue paper. His Dragonite carried three Rocket members up into the sky and then Seismic Tossed them into the ground where they then resembled pizza! And you want us to go back?" James took off his lapel that had been given to him by Silver a few months ago and tossed it onto the table "I will do whatever it takes to keep Team Rocket going, but I will not sacrifice myself stupidly. If you want to do so, then go ahead. I'll make sure to carry a dustpan and brush to sweep up what is left of you."

"Enough" Silver said standing up "they are correct Domino. You two are friends with Ketchum. Get close to him, find out where he is staying during the league, where his mum will be staying from now until the league and how they are getting there. We will get her during her travel to Indigo Plateau. Until then I want a watch put on Sam Oak and Pallet Town. Domino, with me. I have a father to deal with."

Silver then stood up and marched out of the room quickly followed by Domino who glared at the two new executives.

"I suggest you all go home" Jessie said to the people who had stayed behind "your lives are at risk should you stay and enough have been killed today." Almost as one there was a mad scramble to reach the door and soon enough it was just Jessie and James left.

Picking up the lapel James looked at it with sadness. "a year ago, I would have given anything to have this on my uniform Jessie. Anything. I would have even killed to get one." Looking up at her he continued "but now? I'm likely to get killed for wearing one."

"I agree" Jessie said "but we have a role to play in this world. And we now have a mission to find the leak."

Looking at her wryly he attached the lapel back onto his collar "we already know who it is Jessie."

"We do" she replied as she took his hand "so let's find someone to take our place, shall we?"

Nodding James followed Jessie out of the room and down the elevator before releasing Jessies Kadabra. "Can you take us home please? We need rest." Immediately they winked out of existence.

Ash

"Wait" he said interrupting Pikachu from his re-telling of what happened. Pinching his nose he continued "are you telling me that Arceus appeared but did nothing. Not only that but she was willing to let you sacrifice yourself to bring me back despite knowing how important you are to me. And still, she did nothing? And THEN on top of that she allowed Lord Zapdos to sacrifice himself to bring me back, and still, she did nothing? Is that the gist of what you're telling me?"

"Yes" Lady Moltres said sounding very upset "Lord Zapdos' sacrifice was deemed sufficient enough to bring you back. Do not waste the opportunity."

"You already know I won't" Ash said struggling to his feet "but how are you two not as angry at Arceus as I am over this?"

"Oh, believe me, we are" Articuno said "Zapdos was the first of us and looked after us for centuries. We owe him a great deal and now he is gone."

"Who will take his place?" Ash asked, "I was told that he doesn't reproduce like you two do."

"He told you that I presume?" Moltres asked earning a nod "there is one Zapdos left in the world. I imagine Arceus will create another, and his son will take his place."

"Just like that? It's not right" Ash said shaking his head "and why is it every time a sacrifice has to be made Arceus is involved, and she does precisely dick to actually help?"

"Darkrai asked as much when Mew died" Moltres said "but her edicts rule her thoughts."

"Those edicts are ridiculous" Charizard said angrily "Ash has nearly died three times now in less than a year doing her bidding. He has literally just died and she sits on her throne doing nothing to aid us. Ash was told years ago that he was created to counter Mewtwo. At the time we were told there possibly two and all we can see he's been helped with is by us being placed in his path and his aura ability. If she knew where Mew was and that Mewtwo had been created, then she should have done it herself. She hides behind those edicts and lets others do the dirty work. And to think I used to be angry that Ash was considering not doing her will. Well, I won't anymore. We've done enough." Ash's Pokémon agreed by vigorously nodding their heads.

Mewtwo had been listening keenly at the conversation and was astounded that Ash felt the same way he did. Arceus had let him be created, let him be experimented on, let him be controlled and exploited and he had rebelled. Strangely though he didn't feel the anger he once felt at the world. Ash's words had hit a part of him he had forgotten existed. Hovering over to the group he was met with hostile glares. He was used to them though, so he remained uncaring.

"You fought valiantly for a cause you had stopped believing in a long time ago. Why?" he asked.

"The cause wasn't the issue" Ash said rubbing his chest "your way of thinking was. You were created to be a slave and you freed yourself from it, but you let your anger fester into hatred. That's where the issue for me was. My Pokémon are my family and I would never ask them to do something I wasn't willing to do. 99% of humans believe the same thing and are good people. But you chose to judge us on the worst of humanity. There are Pokémon out there that happily go along with those 1% but the rest of them don't. It does not matter what you were created to do, the fact is you are alive, and you have the choice to be whoever you want to be. I didn't fight against you because I wanted to, I fought to keep everyone I loved alive, and if that came at the expense of my own death then I was ready to do so."

"I see now" Mewtwo said pondering "that the circumstances of one's birth are irrelevant. It's what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are. What is to become of me?"

"Nothing" Ash said shocking them "you're free to live the life you want Mewtwo. My suggestion? I suggest you travel and look for your place in the world. Every legendary Pokémon has a role to play in keeping the balance of the world flowing. Your role is out there waiting for you to discover it."

Nodding he looked around before making a decision. Concentrating his eyes glowed blue and there was a huge flash of light as the people at New Island disappeared along with their Pokémon. Seeing Ash's questioning gaze, he said.

"They do not need to know what truly happened here today. I have erased the last day from their memory and the events of today are best forgotten for them. You on the other hand I feel need to remember. Your aura is strong Ash. I shall do as you say and travel. Maybe I can find a place I can call home."

"My house will always be open to you Mewtwo" Ash said as he walked up to Mewtwo and placed his hand on his head. Concentrating a flash of blue, a brief flash of pain and Mewtwo looked at him questioningly "the control device is now useless. And I killed Fuji so he cannot create another to control you. You're free."

Nodding Mewtwo gathered his power and vanished from sight along with Mew and his clones. Moltres and Articuno dipped their heads and took off into the sunset where they quickly disappeared from view leaving just Ash and his Pokémon. Looking around Ash put his jacket back on that he had taken off when looking at his new scar and felt something brush against his skin. Wonderingly he took out the file he had taken before. The name on the front said Red Ketchum. Opening it Ash nearly fell down. It was a dossier on his dad that went on well beyond his disappearance date. Ash cursed out loud that he had forgotten to ask Mewtwo where he had taken his father. He would have to do so later.

Pulsing out his aura he made sure he was truly alone in this place before recalling everyone except Charizard. "Let's go home pal. I'm sure mum will be worried." Growling Charizard nodded before taking off and slowly making their way across the vast sea towards Pallet Town. It would be at midday the next day that he finally landed at Oaks Choral where he noticed several things out of place. Many of the trees had been ripped up, there were police everywhere and burns on several parts of the field. Had a battle taken place here? Walking into town he was stopped by police who questioned his whereabouts but didn't inform him why they were asking. Telling them he investigated the blue light was met with suspicion, but he was let go and he quickly made his way to his mum's home in confusion.

Walking into the house he was met by raised voices.

"You cannot go out there Delia." Sam's voice rang out "I know you're worried about Ash, but you have to trust he'll be ok."

"I felt him die!" Delia said hysterically "I know what I felt Sam. Don't tell me I'm crazy."

"Delia, think about what you're saying." Sam said, "how can you feel something like that?"

"I can feel aura Sam" Delia said "I can tell when the worlds aura changes and last night it spiked so much! And then I felt an emptiness I have never felt before. I couldn't feel him Sam. He disappeared."

"I don't know what to say to that Delia" Sam said sounding exhausted.

"Just let me go and find him Sam" Delia said quietly sounding desperate.

"There's no need mum, I'm here" Ash said walking into the room. Delia immediately rushed over to him and swept him in a hug and burst out crying again. Ash gripped her for all he was worth as he hugged her back. After a few minutes Delia calmed down and held his face in her hands before pulling him back into a hug. It was a good five minutes later that Delia let him go and pulled him to the dining table where an exhausted looking Sam clapped him on the shoulder.

"It's good to see you Ash" Sam said "you worried us all rushing off the way you did. What happened?"

Sighing Ash stood up and made them all a cup of tea before he sat back down. "It all started 6 years ago when I was attacked by Riley…" the next few hours were devoted to Ash and Delia telling Sam everything that they'd been through, everything they'd discovered and all the trouble he had been in. Ash was very apologetic about keeping certain things from Sam, he truly did feel guilty about doing so but he was under orders. He left out all the people he had killed, Sam didn't need to know that, but he slightly embellished more of his Team Rocket encounters.

"Last night was the reason I was born Sam" Ash said as he eventually finished his story.

Sam Oak was astounded by what Ash just told him. He felt an enormous sense of pride along with incredible irritation that something this huge had been kept from him. He understood of course that you can't really say no to a deity and the fact Ash had interacted with Arceus blew his mind. Here was proof she was real, and he couldn't say anything to anyone without looking senile. He felt so sorry for Ash having to go through what he did at such a young age but all told his story made a lot of sense. He couldn't see Ash lying about it, not to him and his mother anyway.

"So, Fuji is dead and Mewtwo is on the loose?" Sam asked.

"Yes" Ash said "Fuji had an accident with his cloning machine while I was chasing after him which resulted in his decapitation. That wasn't a nice sight either. I then made my way to the battlefield again where I fought Mewtwo and drew. I said something to him which made him sad and then angry. Our last attacks collided, and we were thrown backwards into separate pillars. I cracked my head open and Mewtwo broke his back. Mums right. I died last night. I was told the story of how I lived after Arceus walked the Earth again. According to my Pokémon Lord Zapdos sacrificed his life so that I would live like I sacrificed my ability to find love for Mew. My Pokémon wouldn't lie to me, and neither would the other two Legendary birds. I have a scar over my heart shaped like a lightning bolt as proof" he finished taking of his shirt and showing them. "I let Mewtwo go as he was just as much of a pawn in this game as I was."

"Did he tell you where he had taken Red?" Delia asked after several minutes.

"I forgot to ask him; I will do so next time I see him though. I did find this" Ash said pulling out the folder "maybe we can figure out where dad is being held, or at least get his body back."

Nodding Delia gave the file a quick glance before handing it to Sam.

"What happened here by the way?" Ash asked "the police questioned me rather heavily when I landed at your lab Sam."

"Well, that's the strange thing isn't it." Sam said, "Team Rocket attacked my lab for a then unknown reason, but they were unlucky enough to come across Charizard and Dragonite."

"How many lived?" Ash asked wryly.

"Two, your two friends by the way" Sam said, "eight didn't."

"I'm guessing Charizard is furious?" Ash asked.

"To say the least. Sam replied "I found out from my son an hour before you arrived why they attacked here. Apparently, my son visibly led an ambush on the leader of Team Rockets mother and took her hostage hoping to draw him out. Across Kanto and Johto various places were also hit by the two Elite Fours and the G-Men taking out Rocket holdings across the two regions. Anyway, they attacked to try and get me as a bargaining chip in retaliation as a trade for Silvers mother. Yes, that was a shock too finding out Silver was alive after all this time. Obviously, they failed but I've been told to stay with Delia for now to protect us both. Oh, you may want to go and see Sylveon. She was hurt quite badly protecting Togepi who wandered onto the battlefield thinking people were playing."

"I will do when we're finished here." Ash said draining the last of his cold cup of tea. "I spoke to Silver" he said suddenly as he remembered "just before my confrontation with Fuji. He was on the video phone when I interrupted them. He knows I know he's my cousin so he may target mum."

"Then it's good we're both here together" Sam said.

"I don't think they'd dare attack you or mum now" Ash said as he washed his cup "they were beaten quite soundly and by all accounts are now down to the bare bones of an organisation."

"You could be right" Sam said "I'll stay another day but then I need to get back to work, as does Delia. We can't live our lives in fear of them."

"Take my bed Sam" Ash said "I'll set up my tent in the back garden. I think all my Pokémon would like to be out of their balls tonight anyway." Standing up Ash grabbed his backpack he had left in the hallway and made his way out of the back patio door and set up his tent. Calling everyone out he explained what had happened and received nods. Charizard immediately took off to go and talk to Oaks Charizard who was protecting the Choral. Ash walked back inside and did what he could to help heal Sylveon. His aura felt very strange now though after the incident at New Island. It was like he could focus it more precisely and channel it better.

The next week flew by and soon it was time for Ash to leave for the league. Things had settled down quite quickly in Pallet Town after the attack. Ash had visited his finished house. It was just a shell at the moment, furniture was due to arrive in the next few weeks along with all the plants that was going to be placed in the garden. The work on the lake was still ongoing but should be finished in the next month and over the week Venusaur and Delia had come up with a basic sketch of where the plants were going to go and were happy with the design. Venusaur was a little sad he wouldn't be there the day they were being delivered as Ash would be at Indigo Plateau waiting to start the league tournament.

"You can stay here with mum if you want? I can always wait until the knockout stages to get you back" Ash said after seeing how morose Venusaur was "we all know we're going deep into the tournament and it's not more than three on three until the last thirty-two which is likely the only time I will need you. The other five have you covered pal."

"I'll think about it" Venusaur said walking off leaving a bemused Ash.

A few days later Venusaur told Ash he'd like to stay so Ash handed his Pokéball to his mum. She would be visiting the second week of the tournament and would give him back then. Ash would just have to remember to register him. The day before Ash was due to leave, he found an envelope on the doorstep of his new home. Opening it he read the short note.

Ash- need to meet- tonight here, 10pm

Very strange Ash thought as he looked around. He knew they were all being watched; his aura level had taken on a new level after being infused with Zapdos' aura, so he was able to feel anyone within one hundred meters of him a lot easier now. It was also easier to differentiate between people, so he knew that it wasn't the same people observing him every day. Ash had left them alone mainly because he was still sore from Mewtwo's attack.

That night he left his mums house and flew on Charizard at 9:30. He wanted to lay down an ambush should it turn out to be a trap. Letting his Pokémon know of his plan they each went off and hid in various places. He was very lucky that his house had such a deep forest surrounding it. At 9:55 Ash heard a noise off to the side of him. Scanning them he knew who it was and relaxed. Waiting for them to come into the porches light he saw a very concerned looking Jessie and James.

"You guys look like crap" Ash said.

"You would be too if you've just had to deal with an irate boss. What do you know of him?" James said.

"I don't know a lot about him" Ash said "he's my cousin, the son of Giovanni the Viridian Gym leader and some rich model he met thirty odd years ago. Gio said he didn't know who he was until he first met him when he was 17 and didn't find out he was the Rocket Leader until three years later. Gio told mum and dad he died shortly after his 20th birthday but he knew who he was the entire time that the investigation into my father was going on and didn't say a word. I doubt mum will ever speak to Uncle Gio again."

"That explains why the office seemed familiar when we raided his gym" Jessie said "the layout is the same. The boss is fuming. He ordered the kidnap of Sam after he found out Blue has his mum, only that didn't go so well. We were then ordered to kidnap your mother as retaliation for the humiliation you gave him on New Island, but we were able to talk him out of it."

"I'm still being watched" Ash said "and mum has two of my Pokémon on her at all times. That won't change until she's at the league with me. Sam is bringing her on Dragonite."

"Good" James said "that's good. We were ordered to find out your plans and to arrange a kidnap on her travels, but no one is going to be stupid enough to attack Sam's Dragonite. The boss is concerned about the leak amongst his ranks and we have until tomorrow to come up with a patsy to take our place."

"That should be easy" Jessie said waving it away "we have plenty of people we can use. Don't worry about us."

"I'm not" Ash said smirking "if it's two people I don't have to worry about it's you two. I take it the watchperson needs to live?" he finished nodding at the treeline.

"Yeah" Jessie said, "the boss is paranoid about anything to do with you at the moment, but we've been ordered to find out anything we can."

"Interesting" Ash said with a thoughtful face "I'm sure I can use that. I do have something you can tell him." With a grin he gave Jessie and James the information which made them both gulp. "I need to be going now as I'm up early for my travels. Remember what I've said though, hopefully we'll meet up at the league." Whistling all his Pokémon came out of their hiding places, and he recalled them. Taking off on Charizard he grinned. Hopefully Silver would be looking over his shoulder even more now.

Silver

The last week had been horrible. He had found out that only one place he owned hadn't been hit as it was off the books. It wasn't enough to keep him financially stable, but it was better than nothing. He still had a huge fortune in the bank but that would quickly dwindle with the amount of costs he was incurring on a daily basis.

His father wasn't at the Viridian Gym when he went there as apparently he had left for important business a few days before and wouldn't be back for a week yet before he would then be headed to the League for the Indigo tournament. Seething Silver had no choice but to leave and come back later.

For some reason Silph had sent him an email declaring that until he could pay the costs of all his projects, in full then they would be halting proceedings. This left him furious as he desperately needed their inventions. He could pay them easily, but it would leave him stuck for possibly years until the inventions were created. And with his rapidly dwindling money he didn't think it was cost effective. For the moment he just left it, vowing to get vengeance as soon as he could. His last run in with the head of Silph wasn't a fun one as he had quickly been escorted from the building along with his henchmen.

He knew what was happening. They had gone public with their partnership with Ash, a rising star in not only the Pokémon world but the academic one too. His book on aura was intriguing but he'd found he couldn't calm his mind enough to practice more than the basics. He couldn't care less about the breeding book. No, it was his theories that had intrigued Silver for years and he was very envious that Ash could understand Pokémon. What he wouldn't give for that ability.

Picking up the daily newspaper he read about places that had been raided and his anger grew again. When he next saw Blue he would kill him. Slowly. His receptionist calling through startled him for a moment before he answered.

"Sir, Executives Jessie and James are here with information you required."

"Send them through" Silver replied. Leaning back, he wondered just what they'd bring to him. He was very intrigued.

Jessie and James walked in and sat down opposite Silver and handed over a folder. Picking it up his eyes widened at the name on the list. Reading on he grew steadily angrier as the proof was written out for him to see.

"How did you come by this information?" Silver asked.

"It was mainly James" Jessie said, "he's a whizz on the computer."

"It wasn't hard really" James said shrugging "we just wrote down timelines of key events that happened in the last year, who had access to the information and went from there. It didn't take long to cross-reference things really. We found out a few days ago but we needed proof of other leaks she had been part of. We don't know who she is though."

"I do" Silver said angrily standing up and looking out of the window. "I'll deal with her when I am able to. What of Ketchum?"

"He plans to leave for the league in a few days" Jessie said "he's left two of his Pokémon with her for protection as she has some last-minute business, something to do with Ash's house. She has plans to travel with Samuel Oak to the League in a few weeks' time so snatching her will be very difficult."

"Damn" Silver said sitting down "so that's a no go. How about the place she's staying when she gets to the league?"

"She's staying with Ash" James said "Oak will be with them when he's not doing official League business. It's a few chalets away from the Champions Chalet so again, that will be difficult, doable but very risky."

"We do have a message from him for you though" Jessie said "he said you'd understand what he meant when he said 'your project is not happy with you and is unplugged. Stay safe and sound won't you'."

Nodding he scratched his chin not indicating the fear that gripped him "I want you to hunt down Giovanni. Domino has not returned from the mission, and I've heard nothing from her in the last week. Touch base with her, if you find her tell her to contact me. If she's alive return here for a new mission, if she's captured or dead complete her mission first. Dismissed."

Jessie and James stood up and left being keenly observed as they did so. Picking the folder up he read the name again. He refused to believe it and looking at where they had left, he came to a decision. Calling his receptionist, he asked for Executive Andrew to come to his office. An hour later the man appeared, and Silver looked at him "Jessie and James are to be eliminated. They have a mission to get in contact with Domino to find out her status. Domino is hunting Giovanni. If she's still alive they're coming back here, or so they think. If Domino is dead, they're to complete her mission. Act afterwards. Observe them for now. Dismissed."

The man silently nodded and left the office. Silver picked up the file and walked to his shredder and placed it into it. Gradually the papers disappeared along with the name on the top Alexis Hanzo. His mother.

Ash

His preparations were complete and tomorrow would begin the next step of his journey. He had already completed two of the hurdles; the League gym challenge and Mewtwo's rage and now he would be headed to the League where he would cement his name for all time as a superstar. In just over five weeks' time he would no longer be a rookie, he would be League champion. Ash looked at himself in the mirror and cast his mind back to just over a year ago. He had grown a lot since then, mentally and physically. His body was littered with scars, but he was strong. He had a perfect team, and he had a fantastic family. The Team Rocket arc of his life was coming to a close, he could feel it. He was very worried about leaving his mother behind, but he had a job to complete. Venusaur staying behind reassured him and over the last week he had trained Sylveon too. She was phenomenal. He was considering using her in the finals, but he didn't know who he'd replace.

Nodding to himself he turned around and picked up his rucksack from the side of his door and made his way downstairs. Placing it at the side of the front door he made his way into the kitchen to have breakfast with his mum. After chatting aimlessly for an hour Ash stood up and washed his bowl and cup. Delia was quiet as she observed him. Since coming back from New Island Ash had become much more serious about things. Maybe dying gave him a new perspective on life but she was so grateful he was still around.

"Look at you" she said quietly holding her mug "it seems like only yesterday I was bringing you home from the hospital. I do wish your father could be here for this."

"He'll be here for the next one mum" Ash said as his eyes dropped to the folder that was still on the counter-top "when I win the League I'll go on a hunt and follow those breadcrumbs. Those clues are awfully specific. I'll track down Mewtwo and get the information from him. He owes me that at least."

"I'm very proud of you Ash" Delia said standing up and giving him a hug "take care of yourself."

"I will" Ash said as he unclipped Venusaur's Pokéball and handed it to her. "you too."

Picking up the bag he left his mums house, Pikachu on his shoulder and walked out of Pallet Town. Turning around when he was on the hill, he looked over it. The next time he would see it would be as Champion. Releasing Charizard he flew to Viridian and decided to walk the last bit of his journey. He had a week left after all to get there and if he was pushed for time he'd just fly. Walking down Route 22 he came across a few trainers who were getting in last minute preparation by battling others. Ash had no desire to let anyone know what his team consisted of so declined all the challenges. He received many dirty looks and called a few names, but he just didn't care. He knew it would be a waste of time battling them as he could see his Pokémon were much better trained and stronger than those around him.

Eventually he reached a huge mountain with a cave entrance. The signpost read Victory Road, the last hurdle for all trainers. It was a rite of passage to traverse the mountain and make it to the League, so Ash decided to head inside. From what he'd read it was around a two day walk through the mountain and as it was only early afternoon he could easily be out of here by the next night. Strangely for a cave the entire thing was lit up. The trek was quite peaceful really and he chatted non-stop to Pikachu about what they were going to do once they reached the Indigo Village.

"Pi" Ash said "there's this restaurant there that sells nothing but Calamari and other ocean-going food. It's amazing. Mum told me about it from when her and dad went on dates before they had me. It's still run by the same people."

"Oh, why couldn't we have flown there?" Pikachu said grumpily "we could be having it right now!"

"I didn't think" Ash said equally as sad "but it just means we know where the first place we're calling at is."

"We better do" Pikachu responded, "I've not had decent calamari since Vermillion before the cruise."

"Can you believe that was eight months ago?" Ash asked shaking his head. "I'm planning on surprising mum with tickets again for next year. We'll miss this one because of the League and the recovery period afterwards but the year after we should be fine."

"It was nice" Pikachu admitted "I did enjoy the cruise, not the events at Pokémon Land or Porta Vista so much though."

"Yeah, well I think it's safe to say they won't happen again." Ash said chuckling.

"Better not" Pikachu replied causing them both to laugh.

"Come on" Ash said after another five hours of travelling "we'll set up camp here. We've made great progress and should be out by tomorrow evening."

Setting up camp Ash called out his Pokémon. It was a sad event as for the first time in nearly a year they were one member short. Ash made Venusaur's bowl up without even realising he'd done so. Talk was stilted when they realised what Ash had done as they all felt Venusaur's loss. The next day Ash made a lot of progress travelling through the cave. They had come across many Pokémon as they walked through the cave, but none had challenged him, so he let them be. Machoke had walked alongside him and talked about how he had felt that he hadn't gotten any better.

"I'm sorry" Ash said "we completely forgot to ask Oak for a trade for you in Pallet Town. I'll see if there's anything I can do once we reach Indigo. We'll have to spar a lot though because you're going to be gaining extra limbs. Once we register, I'll try and get it sorted otherwise we may have to wait until after the league."

"I understand" Machoke said.

"Actually, we may not" Ash said thinking out loud "let's be honest, we're making it to the knockout stages. The preliminaries are two weeks long, so we have a month to train you up for the finals. Is that ok?"

"Should be fine" Machoke said happily.

The next few hours weren't particularly gruelling and Ash was wondering why they weren't being challenged. Every Pokémon they'd come across had done nothing but watch them pass. Curious Ash stopped a Machop who warily looked at Ash and his Machoke but bowed at Ash.

"Why haven't we been challenged while walking through here?" Ash asked confused about the bowing.

"You bear Lord Zapdos' mark and you have been blessed by the Original One." Machop said "you bear them heavily, but you bear them well nonetheless."

"Oh right" Ash said less confused "well, thank you for letting me know. You know you're all free to challenge us, right?"

"We do" Machop said "but it wouldn't be right." Bowing Machop left them standing there bemused. Ash decided to carry on walking and soon enough the exit came into view. Walking out Ash was amazed to find it was early evening. The route was littered with people that had obviously just come through the cave. Ash chuckled as he and his team were just fine. Walking on Indigo Plateau slowly came into view. Sadly, Ash had been here a few times over the last few months for one thing or another, so a lot of the majesty had been taken away, but it was still impressive nonetheless. As Ash walked onto the plaza he stopped and took a deep breath. He was now just eight battles away from being crowned Champion and cementing his legacy. Another Ketchum was about to become world famous again.

Chapter 36: Chapter 36

Chapter Text

Chapter 36- The Big Meeting

Ash and Pikachu decided that their first port of call was the restaurant they'd been craving. Walking in they sat down and both ordered a huge bowl of Calamari. Within twenty minutes it was on the table, and they were savouring every mouthful. The noises they were making while eating disturbed some people but most understood, the place was famous for the dish.

"Well, that's something I want to erase from my mind" a voice said disturbing Ash. Looking around he saw that Lt Surge was standing there with his wife. At the side of them though strangely was Brock.

"Hey guys" Ash said pulling out a chair for Audrey. He decided Frank and Brock could pull out their own so sitting back down he asked, "Why are you guys here?"

"We're here because of the tournament" Frank said, "We're obliged to come and watch the tournament, or at least be there for the opening ceremony. That and we have a meeting with Goodshow."

"Yeah" Brock said as he ordered a drink from the waiter "apparently every gym leader in Kanto has been called for it. We've no idea why though."

"Likely because of me" Ash said as he gave Pikachu the last ring of calamari "before I started my journey, I was given a task to complete. I'm afraid I can't tell you what it is, but it involved the Elite Four and a question they had been asked."

"Sounds serious" Audrey said looking concerned "and you can tell us nothing?"

"Sorry" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I will say this though. Frank and Brock have nothing to worry about."

"That makes me feel slightly better" Brock said, "so the Elite Four will be there too then?"

Ash shrugged his shoulders at that one "I have no idea. I just know it was something they devised and asked me to help out with."

"Fair enough" Frank said "so how have your preparations been? Where did you end up going?"

"Mt Silver" Ash said "we spent six weeks away from everyone, no distractions, just pure training from morning to evening. We have become so much stronger because of it. So much so if I don't make it to the final four, I will be disappointed in myself."

"That's a tall ask" Brock said, "no rookie has ever made it past the top eight in their opening league."

"I will" Ash said smiling "I passed a lot of trainers on the way here who all were involved in battles. All were pretty poor. No, we'll go far in this tournament."

"It's such a shame you couldn't be there for Elesa's party" Audrey said giving him a stern look "we were looking forward to seeing you there. It was such a fun night."

"Sorry" Ash said wryly "my training for the league was very important. A party would have been a distraction that I can't afford just yet."

The conversation went on for another hour before Ash made his way to the main stadium where he entered the reception and handed his Pokedex and badge case over to the registration clerk.

"How many Pokémon species are you registering for the tournament?" the clerk asked.

"Nine" Ash said smirking as he inputted the data on the touchpad in front of him.

Checking the Pokémon against Ash's Pokedex the clerks' eyes widened slightly at who he registered but otherwise didn't say anything. "Now, your Pokémon will be blanked out on your trainer profile until the round of the last sixteen. Each Pokémon will become available to see as soon as you send them out onto the battlefield. Once you reach the last sixteen everyone of your registered Pokémon will become available for viewing. This is so that strategies can be made, and a much better tournament can take place. You are required to take part in the opening event at this stadium in two days' time. It begins at 6pm so you need to be here for 5:30 to check your name off the list. If you don't turn up and don't have a valid reason you as to why you didn't turn up you will forfeit your place in the tournament, and it will be given to another trainer.

The day after the opening event you will need to come here before noon to find out who your opponents will be in the preliminary tournament. You will be placed in a table with three other trainers and the top two will go through to the finals. It will be straight knockout from there. The referee in the battles will signal what rules are in play before each battle and any infraction will be dealt with by the referee. I wish you the best of luck."

Thanking her Ash made his way to his chalet and unpacked his bag. While he was doing so his hand brushed his scarf. Confused he pulled his scarf out and from inside the black stone puzzle piece fell out.

"Has that been in your bag the entire time and you've not said anything?" Pikachu asked poking the stone before quickly recalling his hand as it singed him. "Ow."

"I completely forgot" Ash said as he examined it "I feel like I should know what this is though. I'll speak to Sam about it when he gets here. Hopefully he doesn't confiscate this one either."

"Whatever it is isn't giving off a good feeling Ash" Pikachu said shaking his paw out.

"Very strange" Ash said as he poked it himself. What was stranger was that nothing happened. Tentatively Ash picked up the stone and examined it. It was unbelievably smooth; the cut was perfect on the ridges, but it did have a weird sense coming from it. "It seems to be one of many. Look here, there's ridges that look like they interlock with another piece. I wonder what they create?"

"No idea" Pikachu said, "but as it's us, it can't be anything good."

Ash nodded and wrapped it up in his scarf and placed it back into his bag before heading to bed. The next day Ash decided to go exploring. He may as well try and find places he could eat and drink while he had the chance, it was beginning to fill up with people who were here to either compete or watch. He was thankful he had an organised mind and had booked his chalet months in advance, he would hated to have to camp out for this event.

Elsewhere

Charles was going over the papers he had been sent by Sam Oak. When the Elite Four and himself had first come up with the task they had racked their brains for hours thinking who could be used to do it. It was an off the cuff remark when he was chatting to Sam about the new trainers who were about to go off on their journeys that gave him the idea.

"There's a few promising individuals that will likely make it to the league this year" Sam had said. "Sadly, I can't recommend many of them for this task Charles."

"Doesn't your grandson start this year?" Charles asked. "What about him?"

"He does indeed" Sam said shaking his head "I fear that his attitude will not help in this regard. He's far too entitled to keep quiet about this. No, out of the four leaving Pallet Town I believe he will do well but there's a young man who's been helping out around my lab for five years that will go far. I mean he's already written books on Pokémon and he's only just about to turn eleven!"

"Oh" Charles said intrigued "tell me more."

Sam then discussed Ash. He never said Ash's name though, that came out after he'd left on his journey as he was still protected under the 'minors act' beforehand. When he found out it was the boy who had written papers his own Elites were using, he knew he would be perfect.

"He's perfect" Charles said "He's humble, intelligent, informed. His anti-socialness aside I think he's the perfect candidate to do this task. From what you've said we won't get any BS from him and actual proper answers. You have the authority to go ahead with this Sam, just send me the details and I will sign off on them."

Coming back to himself he heard his phone ringing. Answering it he talked to his receptionist who told him the leaders, Elites and Sam Oak were ready for him in the boardroom. Gathering the papers, he walked from his office into the room adjoining where he greeted everyone by name as he passed taking note of an empty chair. Sitting down he looked at them all in thought before starting.

"Now, first and foremost well done for this past year. It's never an easy task being a Gym Leader so you have my gratitude for all your hard work. That is one reason why you have been asked here. I would like us all to bow our heads to our departed colleague Blaine. He will be sorely missed.

That being said we have an issue. You see for years now the Elite Four and Champion have been wondering why they weren't getting any challengers that were not only competent but also skilled. We racked our brains for months trying to find out what the issue was until eventually we discovered something disturbing. Only twenty percent of new trainers completed the gym challenge. There are sixteen gyms scattered amongst Kanto, only eight are considered to be part of the main challenge as they're in the eight main cities but the other eight are just as valid. Why are only twenty percent passing the first tests?

To that end we decided to investigate the gyms themselves. Were the tasks too hard, were they too easy? What impression did the general public have of us a whole. So, we came up with a plan. We would ask a trainer who was a rookie to send us reports after they had completed the gyms to give us their unbiased opinion on what the challenge was like, what improvements could be made etc. These are those reports." He finished handing out the report to each person sat down.

"Some of it is grim viewing and I am deeply disturbed by some things in this report. So, down the line we are going in order of what gyms the challenger faced first. We will all read each other's report and you will be asked about your interaction with this individual and you will be given a chance to respond to the criticism, if any is in the report. We will start with Brock.

Pewter Gym

Brock came across as a very reasonable person. A bit arrogant but that was to be expected given what I challenged him with. He still accommodated me, and we had our battle where I surprised him with my strategies and won the badge even though I didn't beat the required three Pokémon. His Gyms motto was very apt for who he is as a person and the challenge he issued. Facing adversity is something everyone should strive for. He gave me a lot of information that I didn't know about concerning the gym challenges and gave me something to aim for when I voluntarily faced one of his Elites. We lost, badly but he still made me believe that eventually the challenge of facing the elites would be worth pursuing.

Edit: I have since met up with Brock several times since I first challenged his gym and have become very close friends with him. His knowledge on breeding and Pokémon in general should be nurtured and included in his gym challenge in some form. He is far too clever and passionate about Pokémon to be let go.

"Well Brock" Charles said "I am deeply impressed with what I was told. I'm sure judging by some of your faces by now you've all guessed just who the challenger is. The edit was sent to me a few months ago, some time after Ash challenged your gym."

"What did you teach him?" Bruno asked.

"He challenged me with a Pikachu and won." Brock said "The battle rules are basic 3 on 3; he only had Pikachu and had no plans to capture any Pokémon other than the six he selected before leaving Pallet. So, we agreed that if he lost, he would not be able to challenge me again until he had three Pokémon. He wiped the floor with my first two Pokémon, and I felt him challenging my third would deflate him as his Pikachu was tired. I offered to let him face the weakest of my elites to show what the challenge will eventually be like and to teach him that there's always someone out there that is stronger than you. He won the badge because he faced me knowing he couldn't win. He passed my gyms second test without realising. Honestly, he taught me more about myself and my attitude in that battle than I have ever learned in the last few years I've been gym leader."

"His Pikachu beat rock/ground types?" Koga asked surprised.

"Yes" Brock said, "I believe that my Golem is the only loss he's had too since he started his journey."

"That's amazing" Richard said surprised.

"It is" Sam said laughing "every time he sees the battle won/loss count he grumbles about taking that off his records as it was an unsanctioned match. It ruins his perfectionist attitude. He needs it though, it keeps him humble which is very important."

Charles nodded along confirming Sam statement "I am very inclined to agree to what Ash said about your development being nurtured so to that end I would like to offer you a scholarship to the Breeding and Doctors University in Hoenn. We are going to be building a centre of excellence in Pewter City that you will be head of should you pass the bar. You will be given two years from passing to find like-minded individuals to help run the place. You do not have to say anything just yet. I will give you until the tournament finishes to decide. Now, onto the next Gym."

Brock just sat there stunned at the offer. He knew he would accept, and hopefully he could learn more about Pokémon by doing so.

Cerulean Gym

Arrogant, vain, narcissistic, empty-headed. Use whatever metaphor you like for these three. I was denied a battle when I arrived in Cerulean by their receptionist because they were doing their shows. I hoped that it was just the receptionist that needed re-training, but I was appalled to find out it wasn't. I had to come back days later and was denied again by the leaders themselves because 'like, we can't be bothered'. How these three have stayed in this job is amazing. They received multiple visits from Jenny who told them that they were on thin ice and to sort themselves out and ignored her, that in itself is unforgivable to me, but that's my own personal opinion. I later heard from a few other trainers I battled on the way to Vermillion City that rather than battling them they were handed their badges because they didn't want to mess up their Pokémon's fur for a show. While I didn't take pleasure in getting them evicted, I did take great pleasure in reminding them what they get paid to do i.e. gym challenges. As an aside growing up my Uncle and I used to talk about the requirements to become a Gym Leader and the level of professionalism and the standard that's expected from you. These three are making a mockery of the Gym League challenge by just handing out the badges like sweets at a fun-fair.

Edit: I retried the gym a month later and had the rules of their gym changed by Elite Four member Lorelei just before the battle. I'm afraid that I took my anger out on them and would like to apologise for my actions that day. It wasn't their fault Lorelei interfered like that and they didn't deserve being demolished the way they were. That being said I found they were ok trainers when they tried. I think they would be better suited to doing their shows and someone else take their place as gym leaders because they couldn't seem to think clearly when simple strategy was used against them. I didn't particularly have a challenging time battling them.

"This was the most disappointing statement I read from Ash" Charles said sadly shaking his head at the three sisters "to deny a challenger their chance of a badge is ridiculous but to do so because you can't be bothered is unforgivable. Explain yourselves."

"We apologised to Ash when he challenged us a second time." Daisy said "we pushed our luck one too many times and got burned. He is right though; he gave us some advice afterwards and we've since become much better at being trainers. Miss Lorelei helped us too. If you're going to replace us, we understand but I would ask you give Misty a chance at the Gym Leader role. She's much better at battling than we are."

"Lorelei had to step in at that point" Sam said factually "and if it wasn't for her, you three wouldn't be here right now. You're very lucky she vouched for you and helped train you. We have seen a sharp decrease in your badges being won which makes me believe you three are trying but if it was up to me, you'd have been replaced that day."

"I thought Ash was joking when he said you three handed out badges without battling." Lt Surge said shaking his head at them in disgust.

"We haven't done that since then" Lily said red-faced.

"I should bloody well hope not" Blue said furiously leaning forward "Ash was right, you three have made a mockery of our gym challenges and you're bloody lucky Lorelei stepped in."

"They are correct" Charles said "but it is up to me to deal punishment. Now, Lorelei has vouched for you and because of your improved record I am simply placing you on an 18-month probationary period. Every few months you three will visit Lorelei's centre and study from her apprentices. Should you three keep up your record you will stay as gym leaders. Should you not you will be replaced. Am I clear? I will look into your suggestion about your sister. If she's more suited to the role, then we will decide further along the line."

The three sisters nodded knowing he was right. They were lucky that someone had stepped in.

Vermillion Gym

I stayed in the Pokémon centre for a week before challenging Lt Surge to see what kind of Pokémon people were bringing in, the state of them after a battle etc because along with the Sensational Sisters, Lt Surges gym was one I was told was of concern too. The reports of being very harsh with new trainers didn't sit well with me and I was disgusted by what I found, but not on behalf of the trainers. I feel Lt Surge has been unfairly maligned by the complaints he received but had he informed Nurse Joy of what he was doing the complaints would have been dismissed before they became an issue. I feel this was likely because he had already complained and been ignored so he just carried on as best he could.

The fact people were challenging an electric gym with unevolved birds and water types made me want to throttle the trainers. That they would risk their Pokémon's lives in such a way made me wish I had Professor Oaks job just so I could revoke their licences on the spot. I asked Lt Surge if he thought Natural Selection wasn't happening quick enough and he laughed because he knew exactly why I asked. The gym challenge itself was very thought provoking. I learned a lot about training Pikachu from Lt Surge and the fact his students' asked questions about our battle shows how good he is at being a trainer and instructor. Every battle is a lesson waiting to be learned. His motto was very apt too as hopefully those trainers never battle again.

I feel Lt Surge could do with being given the power of deciding if he wants to battle certain trainers or not if he's challenged by cretins with Pidgeys and Seels. He would have to back up why, which a quick look at the trainers Pokédex would solve but having his hands tied has harmed him both personally and professionally. I feel if the issue isn't resolved soon the Pokémon League will lose a valuable asset in him and he'll follow his daughter and wife to Unova, much to the detriment of the Kanto League.

"I feel I must apologise to you Frank" Charles said "when we heard the reports about Vermillion Gym, I assumed the worst. I had no idea things were so bad for you because of the rules in place at gyms."

"I second that" Sam said "Vermillion and Cerulean were the top two on my list of concerns when we appointed this task to Ash. I'm pleased to see at least one of those was unfounded."

"It's alright" Frank said waving it away "I am partly at fault too for not informing Vermillions Nurse Joy what I was doing. Had I done so perhaps change could have happened sooner."

"Well to that end I will be doing what Ash asked" Chares said "provided you give evidence of the challengers Pokémon you will now have the option of declining the challenger a battle. And you also have the option of providing a statement on the challenger too with every report."

"Thank you" Frank said leaning back looking happier than he had been in weeks. Since Ash battled him, he had many trainers come in who he quickly put in their place. Now knowing he wouldn't have to have his time wasted was a huge relief.

Saffron Gym

I didn't battle the abomination. The fact the league employed one of them disgusted me, but I took great pleasure in evicting the witch.

Karate Master Richard on the other hand gave me my first loss in a knockout battle. He was very good at explaining what his gym entailed and why he gave the challenge he did. Sadly, he had only been an official League Gym Leader a day at this point, so I never learned his hidden lesson. Hopefully he has one now. My loss helped me realise that battles can often come down to a wrong judgement call. It's a lesson I've kept with me since.

"Ash is right" Charles said looking at Richard "you've only been gym leader for eight months now so it's far too early to be evaluated. When we meet next year before the Indigo League, we will be able to have a more in-depth discussion."

Richard just nodded knowing that there wasn't much more to say. He would like to chat with Ash again soon though, especially after the Rota incident.

Celadon Gym

I will try and stay as professional as I can on Erika. I met her before I challenged her, and she intimated that she didn't want me in her city any longer than necessary. At the time I was sat in the park having a break and it threw me a bit as she didn't know me.

Her receptionist needs replacing. I waited an hour and a half to battle Erika because her receptionist is friends with a woman who works in Erika's perfume shop who had insulted me the night before. She clearly took what I said to her friend to heart and pissed me around. It was only after ringing Sam that I was able to have a battle with Erika who felt it necessary to chastise me in front of the entire gym for the incident the night before without hearing both sides of the situation, one which was blown out of proportion. The battle itself was very enjoyable, that was until Erika insulted me, again in front of everyone. So, I humiliated her by beating her Gloom in one move. I felt bad a while afterwards but at the time I was still feeling raw from the incident in Porta Vista and to be accused of not having empathy with Pikachu when we literally put our lives on the line to save a city annoyed me. I have no idea what her motto was.

Edit: my mother is good friends with Erika and is helping with the conservationist project just outside of Pallet Town. Judging from the assistants of hers I've interacted with I will say she seems to be an excellent teacher and is extremely skilful at her craft with flowers.

"When I spoke to Ash about this I couldn't believe what I was hearing" Sam said "I have known you since you were a baby Erika, to accuse trainers of lacking empathy is a low blow. It also has nothing to do with your gym. I have overheard you say at times you would never have a Pokémon that wasn't pretty, so your accusation is ridiculous. That being said Ash vouched for your training abilities and the first two battles he had he said he could see why you are a gym leader."

"He humbled me" Erika said frowning "I was aware of him from him being in the news and labelled as a hero. But he also had so many run ins with the police by that point that I was wary of him. Couple that with him walking into Celadon City and immediately having another run in and I was irritated. Then I heard he was rude to my assistant. So, I handled the situation badly. And I insulted him."

"You did" Sam said "but he was also in the wrong for how he reacted. Mistakes were made from both sides."

Fuchsia Gym

A bit of misnomer as it's not actually in Fuchsia. This challenge was one of the best battles I have had, but it's also one of the most horrifying situations I've been placed in due to the actions of my Charmeleon. Charmeleon used an unsanctioned move which could have resulted in the death of Koga's Venomoth had I not reacted quickly to heal it. Thankfully he let the match continue and I won. Afterwards I informed my sponsor Professor Oak of what happened, he placed the mark against my trainer I.D., and I sent a letter informing Koga of what I had done.

Koga's gym challenge is very interesting. Being forced to use logical thinking while traversing his gym is a genius idea. He could do with a few less exploding Voltorb but other than that it was good. Sadly, I never learned what his motto is, though I assume it has to do with status effects and coping with them. I will say this though, Koga is far too skilled to remain a gym leader. His calmness and directness is something everyone can learn something from and his battle style would be incredible to see on a bigger stage.

"As you can see" Charles said "Ash gave you a glowing reference. Your gym challenge has always been a strange one for me as it's not so much a challenge as pick the right door. However, your prowess in battle is very well documented. Why did you not immediately call for a sanction on Ash?"

Koga thought back to that day and the events that took place "It was unnecessary. His Charmeleon acted of its own accord. My daughter and I clearly heard the move he ordered to be used, his Pokémon disobeyed. I didn't call for an official sanction because he immediately ran to my Pokémon and rendered aid, very likely saving its life. He didn't even look at his own downed Pokémon such was his concern. And then a day later he informed me of his decision to call his sponsor and let him know what happened which confirmed my decision about his character. He's an honourable person. I would have expected nothing less from him and he delivered."

"It's true" Sam said sighing "I was terrified for Ash that day because of what could have happened. He rang me immediately because he knew what the outcome would be if there was an official investigation. Not only that but he came up with a punishment for his Pokémon which I deemed appropriate. His actions deemed it unnecessary to further investigate. I still asked Koga for his official statement on the matter, and he confirmed what happened and Ash's response. It took him a long time to get over what could have happened."

"The mark will be removed at the end of the tournament" Charles said "he has long since proven to me that he's responsible. To his last statement though, he is correct which is why I'd like to officially ask Koga to begin training to take the place of Agatha once the current Indigo League season is done. Agatha has decided to step down so she can retire in peace. This will be kept between us until she gives a statement. I will give you until the tournament is over to give me your decision."

Despite the shock of what had just been said Koga found himself being intrigued by the offer. There were a few downsides to the offer that he could think of straight away but overall, it was an intriguing prospect.

"Now" Charles said "due to Blaine dying there is very little point in going through his fight with Ash. Strangely Blaine used three of his Elites in the battle and Ash still won. Once the tournament is over, I will be discussing with the Elite Four and Champion about elevating one of the many gyms to one of the eight to replace Cinnabar."

"So, we come to Giovanni" he continued.

Viridian City

It's a bit strange writing this as I've known for years that Uncle Gio is the final hurdle for trainers to enter the league and I've known very few get past him. His battle style is very strange yet extremely effective. His Pokémon are very strong, as you'd expect from the final gym leader, and I can see why he refuses to battle anyone with less than seven badges. They just wouldn't stand a chance and would waste his time. Why he didn't take a spot on the Elite Four I don't know. Maybe it's because he didn't want to? I did appreciate the mock-league battle he created by having an audience as I'm sure walking out on a League pitch for the first time to an actual audience is very nerve-wracking.

I don't really feel there is anything I feel he can improve on aside from taking on apprentices but given his role for the league I doubt he'd have time. If he is the ambassador for the league, then I can see why.

"That's all Ash wrote?" Giovanni asked turning the sheet over.

"Yes" Charles said simply "your role for the league cannot be understated enough. The job you do both on an off the battlefield is incredible and you have my thanks. Had I known you were serious about taking my job I would have helped you but I'm grateful you are one of the eight."

Nodding Giovanni placed the paper back down and waited for any questions. It was Lt Surge who asked him the first one.

"What did you think of Ash? I know it's not why we're here, but you've known him from birth so I'm interested to know what you thought of him."

"It was very strange battling him." Gio said thoughtfully "I have known him his entire life and knew how talented he is. I've never seen another trainer have the relationship with Pokémon the way he does. I'm quite envious, you know? His battle style is far from unique but the strength of his Pokémon just from training is incredible. Let us not forget he's only been a trainer for a year next week. To beat my Elites the way he did was astounding and I have no doubt that had he will win the league this year."

"A bold statement" Charles said.

"And yet an accurate one" Frank replied "mark my words, you're about to see a rookie win the League for the first time. I know people may accuse me of bias but that Pikachu of his is no ordinary Pokémon."

"You're not wrong" Erika muttered recalling how it destroyed her Gloom.

"I fear you are all correct" Blue said sighing "even though my own son is in this tournament I wouldn't bet against Ash. He reminds me of his dad, from his work ethic to his battle style. He'll go far in this tournament."

After a few minutes of silence Charles looked at them all and said "this report is a very interesting one. As I stated I was appalled by some of you and delighted with others. I have many other statements just like Ash's from random trainers. You may have noticed an increased presence of the Elite Four this year, that is because I asked them to interact with the public and give me their opinion on the gym challenge too. It's clear that it is one of the reasons we have had such a poor showing of challengers to the Elite Four.

So, I have decided to implement a few things for the upcoming year. For starters each gym will take on ten apprentices, they must have at least three Pokémon of your gyms typing. If you already have apprentices, then ignore that bit. At the end of the year though the best three from each gym will be put forth into the League tournament to see how they fare against other trainers who have gained the eight badges required. Hopefully in a few years' time we will have trainers who can challenge the Elite Four for their spots. All expenses will be paid for through the League.

Secondly you will all be given a Pokéball transporter that will be fitted into your gyms so that should anything like what happened with Koga occur again you can immediately have it sent to your local Nurse Joy for aid. This is non-negotiable.

And lastly, for now, you are all required to send Blue a monthly update on how your students are faring or if there are any issues you can think of that need addressing. I'm aware that this may impede on some of the jobs you're required to do but we need changes as of yesterday. So, are there any questions?"

While there were some mutters there was no one forthcoming to ask a question.

"Very well. I invite you all to stay for the tournament. Should you decide to stay" Charles said putting the report back into the folder "something I would highly recommend then speak to the receptionist downstairs and she will give you your personal room key to the hotel just across the plaza where the Elites and Champion will be staying. If not, I wish you safe travels on your way home and I shall see you all in a years' time for the next review. Good day."

There were many mutterings as each gym leader made their way out of the room and the building. Giovanni gave Blue a thoughtful look before leaving but other than that nothing was said. Once they were all gone Charles asked "Opinions?"

"Only the sisters will struggle with the requirements" Agatha said "Far too many people are more interested in their shows. It may be easier to outright replace them while we can or Cerulean Gym will be a year behind the development due to people just wanting to get close to them and not taking the role seriously."

"Sadly, you could be right" Lorelei said, "but they have worked hard since the incident and should be given the chance everyone else has."

"Lorelei is right" Charles said "it wouldn't be fair to replace them just yet and a lot can happen in a year. So, apart from Ash who do you have your eye on for this tournament?"

Ash

Ash was very excited as he made his way to his room. The opening ceremony would take place in just under an hour. Making sure he had his pass and his pokeballs he made his way to the main stadium where he joined the throng of people waiting to enter. Flashing his pass, he was moved to a different line, one specifically for the trainers entering the tournament. Walking through the lobby he made his way down to the steps that led out onto the battlefield where seating had been arranged. Walking out Ash was amazed at the wall of noise already from the stands; he could just imagine what it would be like when he was battling. Looking for his number he found he was sat on the front row just to the right of a big dish up some steps. Ash had seen this many times. It was the dish that contained the fire of Moltres and would burn for the entire tournament. Looking at the dish made him think of the last interaction with Lady Moltres and it made him sad. Rubbing his scar on his chest he looked around and was surprised to find he had been in a world of his own for quite some time as the seats were filled and Charles Goodshow was standing in front of a podium. Looking around he saw a few familiar faces sat down. He would beat them all.

A noise drew his attention as through the middle of the seated area a man walked in holding a torch who Ash recognised as the previous years winner Joe Walsh. The torch had been a tradition dating back to the very first tournament where Moltres herself blessed the event. Ever since then the torch was relayed for months from Cinnabar Island and the lair of Moltres to here in the Indigo Plateau where it would be placed in the dish.

"Welcome one and all to the Indigo League" Charles shouted into the microphone. He waited for several minutes for the noise to die down "every single trainer here today is here on merit. Every single one of you would be a worthy winner of this tournament. Sadly, there will only be one, but I expect the greatness of that winner to shine through and burn as fiercely as the flame of Moltres herself. I'm certain we are all going to witness some spectacular battles and maybe history itself being created. To that end, Mr Torch Runner if you would?"

The man nodded and walked up the twenty steps to the dish and threw the torch inside it. Immediately it ignited and Charles shouted, "Let the tournament begin!"

The next half an hour Ash mingled with many people, some of whom he knew would not make it far into the tournament. A voice behind him brought him out of his thoughts.

"So, you're here then, are you?" turning around Ash thought the bloke looked familiar, but he couldn't place where.

"Do I know you?" Ash asked causing the man to turn red with anger and embarrassment.

"You should do" the man said, "you got lucky in Vermillion in the tournament."

Suddenly it was if a lightbulb went off in his head "Oh yeah, Jeremy, right?"

"My name is John. You would do well to remember that." He said before stalking off. Chuckling Ash made his way gradually outside and back to his chalet, some people were so easy to rile up.

The next day Ash made his way back to the stadium again to see what pool he'd be drawn in. He stood just off to the side observing the trainers who could potentially be in his group. At midday the screens went off before several people appeared holding bags with balls in them. One by one people's names were called into the groups. Ash was drawn in the first round due to being one of the favourites. That had surprised him as he hadn't really thought about it. To find he was one of the first seeds created mixed emotions. He was drawn into pool nine and over the next hour many others were placed into his group. He ended up being in a group with people named Mandy, Walter and Pete. Walking over to his area of the lobby he was given a separate pass indicating which group he was in. For the first time in a few weeks Ash became excited. He was finally about to start the league. Hearing a noise behind him he turned around to find Pete, Mandy and Walter there. After they had taken their passes, Ash held his hand out to them and shook Walter and Pete's hand wishing them good luck for the tournament. He was about to shake Mandy's hand only to recoil when he felt Mandy's aura.

"I think not" Mandy said looking distastefully at Ash's hand "my hands are for Pokéballs only" before walking off.

"Was that a bloke?" Pete asked suddenly causing a few giggles.

"No idea" Ash muttered "what that was, was someone going home in the group stages." Ash nodded to them and left to go and plan for his battle which started tomorrow evening. They would be spaced over a few days to give everyone a chance to battle. Three wins, Ash said in his head. Eight wins altogether. Easy.

The next day Ash made his way to one of the outlying stadiums. The village was made up of eight stadiums with the main one being the ninth. Ash's battles would take place in stadium three. As he stood in the tunnel his head was strangely quiet. This was it. He heard the referee call out Mandy's name. Really, The Astounding Mandy? How pretentious can you get?

"And now in the red corner, hailing from Pallet Town, he's the son of the former Pokémon Master Red, I give you Ash Ketchum" Ash heard the referee say. Showtime, he thought as he made his way out of the tunnel.

Chapter 37: Chapter 37

Chapter Text

Chapter 37- The preliminary rounds

Delia was sat in her restaurant watching Ash. All of Pallet had turned out to see Ash and Gary take part in their matches. Gary had already won his earlier in the day but now it was Ash's turn. She was extremely nervous for him as he'd never done anything like this before in front of an audience. Turning the volume up she waited for Ash to be announced.

"In the Blue corner we have a fan favourite, back challenging the league for the fourth time. He hails from Viridian City and has proven himself to be a skilled battler. I give you 'The Astounding Mandy'" hearing people around her boo brought chuckles to Delia. Seeing Mandy walk onto the field confused Delia. Was Mandy a man or a woman? They'd likely never know. The crowd at the league though were cheering for their returning battler. Seeing Mandy levitating their pokeballs as if they were juggling while doing so made Delia say "Uh-oh" out loud.

"Why Uh-oh?" Laura Oak asked from her side.

"Ash is an aura wielder, they despise psychics" Delia said, "this isn't going to go well for Mandy."

"Thank you" Mandy said as they addressed the crowd "My Pokémon and I will astound you all once again."

"And now in the red corner, hailing from Pallet Town, he's the son of the former Pokémon Master Red, I give you Ash Ketchum" The referee said. The crowd was a lot tamer for Ash as he walked onto the field, his shiny Pikachu on his shoulder looking very determined.

"Battlers" the referee said "Todays battle will take place on the water field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 3 on 3 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side gets any points. Standard move rules apply. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Mandy, as you're the returning trainer you get to go first. Trainers, take your positions.

Delia couldn't hear what Ash and Mandy said to each other, but it was Mandy who flounced away while Ash smirked as he made his way into his trainer box.

Ash

As he walked out onto the field calmness overcame Ash. This was what he was born to do. And the trainer in his way was just that, in his way of achieving greatness. He tried and failed to hide his disgust at the psychic. Listening to the referee he nodded. Before they left though Mandy said "I will show you that you're worthless. My lady Sabrina will be avenged."

"You'll soon be as relevant as the witch is. Let's see how astounding you really are shall we?" Ash said smirking and walking to his box.

"Mandy, Ash. When the buzzer goes you will both release your Pokémon. Good luck to you both" the referee said as he counted the timer and pressed a button. From nowhere the ground opened up and a water field appeared. It was a huge pool with several pontoons on it.

When it reached Zero Mandy shouted "let's go Exxegutor" as a huge tree like Pokémon appeared on the pontoon calling out its name.

"Let's go Pi" Ash said as Pikachu jumped down onto the pontoon and waited for his first Indigo League order.

"Hypnosis" Mandy called as Exxegutors head started rotating and flashing out psychic waves at Pikachu.

"Combo 1" Ash said as Pikachu jumped forward into a Quick Attack and began charging across the pontoons at the Exxegutor faster than most people could see. Just as Pikachu was about to reach, he turned around in mid-air and used Iron Tail on one of the heads throwing Exxegutor backwards twenty feet where it rested at the base of Mandy's box knocked out.

Silence. The referee was so stunned at how quick the battle was over that he had to be nudged by an assistant to call the battle. "Exxegutor is unable to battle, Pikachu wins. Mandy, call out your second Pokémon."

Mandy's brain was struggling to compute what had just happened. Eventually though his brain kicked in and he automatically called his knocked-out Pokémon back.

"Astounded eh Mandy?" Ash said cheekily as Pikachu ran back to his side of the field.

"A lucky shot" Mandy said as a sneer appeared on his face "let's go Seadra."

A blue seahorse appeared in the water which baffled Ash. Perhaps it was just Mandy's bad luck to have chosen a Pokémon that was weak to Pikachu. He knew type advantage didn't mean anything if the Pokémon was well trained, but he didn't think he'd have an issue here.

"Quick Attack" Pi Ash shouted as again Pikachu charged forward.

"Not this time" Mandy shouted "Seadra, Smokescreen and Agility."

Immediately the battlefield was covered in thick black smoke and Pikachu stopped running. Instead, he focused on blocking out all external noise and very quickly he could hear the Seadra moving about through the smoke in the water. Jumping from island to island as quietly as he could until he was ten feet away, he charged forwards using Quick Attack and smashed into the Seadra. Hearing this Ash called out "Thunderbolt" and from the right side of the field a flash of yellow happened followed by a screech of pain and then silence. From out of the smoke Pikachu came trotting over and waited on Ash's side for the smoke to clear.

"Has your rat given up so soon?" Mandy called out sneering at Ash.

"No, he just doesn't see the point in attacking a knocked-out Pokémon" Ash said leaning forwards and resting his arms on the box while smirking. Hearing Mandy call out attacks and get no reply made Ash smirk even more. After a few minutes the smog began to clear and sure enough a knocked-out seahorse was lying belly up in the water.

"Seadra is unable to battle. Mandy release your final Pokémon." The referee said holding up a flag.

"And Mandy loses his second Pokémon. Ash and his Pikachu prove too much too soon again for Mandy. Can he make it a clean sweep, or will Mandy come back?" The commentator said exuberantly. The restaurant had turned very lively as Ash demolished the first two Pokémon without being hit once.

"He's certainly inherited Reds battling prowess" Laura said to Delia.

"No, he's better than Red was." Delia said smiling. "he'll win this tournament."

"My final Pokémon" Mandy whispered as he kissed the pokeball and out came a Golbat.

"And Mandy chooses his Golbat" the commentator shouted, "he may have type advantage, but this won't be easy for Ash."

"Golbat huh?" Ash said "Pi, are you still ok?" Pikachu gave Ash a dirty look which made him chuckle "Ok then, remember we have one move left, the other three are locked in already. Let's go Pi."

Pikachu shook his head and started hopping around the pontoons trying to get closer to Golbat.

"Golbat" Mandy shouted, "use Supersonic."

"Keep dodging Pi. It'll soon get tired." Ash called out. Pikachu did what was asked and barely broke a sweat. They went much harder and much longer in training and soon enough Golbat began to flag from constant exertion.

"Air Cutter" Mandy shouted seeing how tired his Pokémon was getting. He knew he would lose the match from this point, but he was determined to take one of Ash's Pokémon out with him.

"Keep dodging" Ash said smirking at Mandy as while Golbat fired attacks Ash observed its positioning. Soon enough Pikachu was directly underneath Golbat. "Thunderbolt Pikachu" Ash shouted as Golbat frantically tried to get out of the way but screeched when its wing was clipped, and it fell into the water where it frantically tried to swim. Pikachu looked at Ash who shook his head and jumped back to the pontoon and waited for Ash to say something.

"Ref" Ash said "let him recall Golbat and release it back out. We don't want to win by default or because he was too ego driven to save his drowning Pokémon by forfeiting."

Nodding the ref gave Mandy permission to do just that and with gritted teeth he recalled Golbat and sent it back out where it frantically flapped upwards away from the water. "Go on Pi" Ash said "Thunderbolt."

Pikachu nodded and started sending out arcs of lightning at the poor bat who tried to twist and turn away from them. Mandy meanwhile was pulling his hair out as all the while he was dodging, he couldn't get an attack off. "Herd it" he heard Ash call out and soon enough he saw what Ash was doing. "Golbat, you must get away."

"Too late" Ash called out as Golbat twisted away and faceplanted into the side of the stadium before it was then lit up by Pikachu and flopped to the floor knocked out.

"Golbat is unable to battle" the referee shouted over the noise the crowd made "As Mandy has lost all three Pokémon, I declare Ash Ketchum the winner." Ash made his way down the steps where Pikachu joined him on his shoulders, and they walked down the tunnel only to be confronted by reporters. He didn't know this was a thing and answered a few questions before he was about to leave. About twenty feet away Mandy was doing the same and he overheard his last comment before walking over to him. The crowd parted waiting for whatever Ash had to say.

"I heard that. I only won because of type advantage? Your Pokémon didn't land one hit on my Pikachu, and you had three Pokémon try. The only thing I'm astounded at where you're concerned is that you won eight badges to be here. Give my regards to the witch, won't you?" Smirking Ash walked off leaving a red-faced Mandy watching him leave. He would get his revenge, he swore it.

The restaurant was in stitches at hearing Ash's comments. Delia though frowned. It was one thing to beat someone, but he should have been gracious in victory.

"Well, you weren't wrong about Aura users and psychics, were you?" Laura asked.

"No" Delia said coming back to herself. "Red broke a man's nose once remember because he had psychic powers. All he did was offer to help me to my feet because I was eight months pregnant."

As it was only three pm, he decided to go back to his chalet and rest while deciding what he was going to have for tea. Looking on his desk he saw a few brochures for things to do in the Village. One caught his attention but before he could have a proper look his pokegear rang. Seeing the name, he was very surprised.

"Hello Mr Suzuki" Ash said, "how can I help you?"

"Hello Ash" Mr Suzuki responded "First of all congratulations on your win. We knew we had chosen right when we offered to sponsor you. With that being said we need you to meet with a representative at seven pm tonight at The Golden Lion. She will give you more details when you get there."

"Ah ok" Ash said going over in his head about what it could be "I'm guessing it's about my commitments to Silph?"

"It is" Mr Suzuki said "her name is Amy. Once again, congratulations."

The line went dead causing Ash to look at the phone. Shaking his head, he put down the pamphlet, something for another day perhaps.

At 6:30 that evening Ash and Pikachu made his way to the restaurant where he gave the waiter his name and was escorted to the table to wait for the representee of Silph.

Ten minutes later a woman in her thirties wearing a business top and skirt, styled brown hair, pale skin and green eyes sat down opposite him. She was very pretty Ash observed.

"Greetings Mr Ketchum" she said, "My name is Amy and I represent Silph company."

"Ash" he replied shaking her hand "so what's this about then?"

"Mr Suzuki has asked me to meet with you to discuss your responsibilities with Silph company" Amy said giving her order to the waiter as Ash did the same "now that you're at the league there's a few conditions that have now kicked in. Tomorrow afternoon I will be visiting with another person to outfit you with new attire for your battles. While you're here every interview you do after your matches will have a P.A with you to manage how you answer questions or even what questions the reporters can have. This is her number. He name is Joanne." Amy finished sliding a card over to Ash.

"I need a P.A?" Ash asked confused.

"Yes" Amy said simply "your interview after the match was ok, your interaction with your opponent not so much."

"Well, you're going to have to put up with that" Ash said looking at her "I abhor psychics and I won't be chastised for how I treat them. They're scum, an abomination. They're a cancer on the world and I will do everything I can to see them legally wiped off this planet."

"Yeah, maybe keep that to yourself" Amy said shaking her head.

"Nope" Ash said grinning.

"You represent Silph" Amy said seriously "we don't discriminate."

"I do" Ash said "especially against them. So, what else is there?"

"Just a few other minor things" Amy said as she continued dropping it for now.

That evening Ash was looking over the packet of documents he'd been given by Amy. He had completely forgotten that he had commitments to Silph. A lot had happened since he first signed the contract, but they had done a lot for him with his books, so he owed them this. Going over a few pictures he made notes of what kind of outfit he wanted. He realised he didn't like any of them as they just wouldn't suit him. Pikachu had outright laughed at a few that were maliciously discarded. Deciding he'd chat with the Silph employee about it tomorrow he went to bed.

The next day Ash opened the door only to see the strangest dressed person he'd ever come across. It was a man, around 6 feet tall with bright pink highlights in his dyed white hair wearing bright green flares and a tank top with a green jacket over it. Who the hell wears flares Ash thought? Behind him was Amy who wore a remarkably similar outfit to what she wore the night before.

"Erm" Ash said eloquently.

"Hi" the man said holding out his hand "I'm Gavin. I'm the stylist Silph sent."

"Erm Ok" Ash said as he moved out of the way inviting them both in.

"So" Amy said, "did you go over the ideas we had for you?"

"Yeah" Ash said sitting down across from them at his kitchen countertop "And they were accidentally and maliciously burned by my Charizard. Seriously, who the hell came up with those ideas?"

"I did" Gavin said looking hurt.

"Well, they were horrible" Ash said bluntly "all of them. So, I hope you have some other ideas."

"Did you have any ideas?" Amy said interrupting as she saw Gavin working himself up into a rage.

"Yeah" Ash said pointing to his own outfit "this is me. This is me comfy, this is what I've worn since I started my journey. So, this is what you're working with."

"Ash" Amy said patiently "we need to be able to advertise that you work for Silph on the outfit."

"And where were you going to put it on the cowboy outfit he came up with?" Ash asked raising his eyebrow "I swear, if you say my bum, I will toss you both out."

"Never mind" Amy said quietly "so can you work with that?" she asked Gavin.

Standing up he circled around Ash muttering under his breath as he picked at Ash's clothing. "I suppose it'll do."

"Marvelous" Ash said as he walked into his room and gathered two of his other outfits and placing them on the counter "do your thing."

Shaking his head Gavin picked them up and walked out of Ash's chalet. Amy just looked at him, shook her head and followed Gavin.

"Well, that was easy" Ash said chuckling.

The next day it was nearing the time for his next match when he received a knock on his door. Confused he opened the door, and a young lady was standing there with a satchel on her shoulder. She looked around nineteen, had red hair and bright blue eyes. She was wearing a grey top and a black skirt.

"Hi" Ash said, "can I help you?"

"Hi" she said perkily which surprised Ash. She was very cheery. "I'm Joanne. I'm your P.A."

"Oh right" Ash said looking at the clock "well it's nice to meet you but I have a match in an hour in stadium 4 so I need to make my way there now."

"Oh good" Joanne said, "we can chat on the way." She was incessantly chatty and bubbly. For an introvert like Ash, it was very annoying. They reached the stadium and Ash checked in. He would be facing Walter today who had lost his previous match. As they sat down and waited to be called Joanne was talking nonstop.

"Look" Ash said interrupting her "I'm happy to talk to you but this happy, chatty thing isn't for me. I am sorry. But I can't concentrate on my match with you chatting all the time. I need to focus."

"Oh" she said looking sad "Ok. Well, I'll be here if you need me."

"I'm just not a chatty person and I don't do well with humans" Ash said "There's only a handful that I can tolerate speaking to for any length of time. I'm aware that you're stuck with me so try not to take anything I say to heart or believe it to be personal."

"Oh ok" Janne said looking slightly less sad. Ash's name was called so he stood up and patted her on the shoulder. "We'll chat after the match. It shouldn't be too long."

Delia

Delia was once again sat at her restaurant which was full again of the residents of Pallet Town to watch her son's match. After his first match it was the talk of the town. How skilled he was, his assured he was and how proud Delia must be of him. She was proud. Incredibly proud actually.

"How do you think this one will go" Laura asked.

"Better" Delia said laughing "Walter isn't a psychic, so Ash won't be as harsh with him."

"Will he win?" Laura asked.

"Yes" Delia replied "Ash will win the whole thing. You mark me."

"He'll have to get past Gary first" Laura said smirking.

"How's he been?" Delia asked, "are you still having issues with him?"

"Yes" Laura said sadly "Blue ruined him by spoiling him. I have no idea where he gets his ego from, and Daisy nearly slapped him a few weeks ago. Daisy hardly ever gets angry, but Gary's attitude has made her so mad lately."

"Is there anything I can do to help?" Delia asked concerned.

"No" Laura said shaking her head "sadly this will only be resolved by Gary growing up and realising how much of an arse he's been."

Laughing Delia turned her attention back to the screen as the announcer came back on.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the second battle in group 9 is about to take part. In the Red corner hailing from Pallet Town is trainer Ash Ketchum. Ash won his previous match by beating the Astounding Mandy without taking a single hit on his Pikachu. His battle style was extremely impressive. In the Blue corner we have Walter, a newcomer to the Indigo league who narrowly lost his first match to Pete. Due to Pete winning his match earlier, should Walter lose then both he and Mandy are out of the tournament. Should he win he goes level on points with Ash and will fight for a spot in the top two against Mandy."

Ash walked out onto the field and shook hands with Walter. Turning around he quietly made his way to his box while the referee went over the rules.

"Battlers" the referee said "Todays battle will take place on the rock field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 3 on 3 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side gets any points. Standard move rules apply. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Trainers get ready to send out your first Pokémon."

As the countdown happened the referee pressed a button and the field opened up to reveal underneath an extremely rocky field, littered with boulders.

When the buzzer went off Walter threw his ball onto the field and from it appeared an Electrode. From Ash's pokeball came Machoke.

"Its Electrode versus Machoke" the referee said "begin".

"Sonicboom" Walter said as air was sliced quickly at Machoke who sidestepped the attack as though it wasn't there. "Thunderbolt" Walter said as he frowned at the missed move. A lance of electricity arced its way to Machoke who jumped into the air at Ash's command and missed.

"Earthquake" Ash shouted. Machoke landed and punched the ground creating huge tremors to go off around the field causing the Electrode to be thrown around into a few rocks. Ash had come up with a plan as soon as he saw the Electrode. They were notorious for exploding at the slightest thing and the field was littered with object. "Rock Slide" Ash called out. Machoke punched one of the pillars breaking bits of rock from them and began launching them at the already unstable Electrode who struggled to roll out of the way. Eventually it was clipped by a stray rock and went spinning off into a pillar. "Earthquake again" Ash called out "finish it before it explodes."

"Electrode, Explosion" Walter called out. Ash frowned; he hated moves like that. They cause significant harm not just to an opponent but also to the Pokémon using it.

"Machoke retreat behind the pillar there. Take shelter." Ash said looking at the bright light of the Electrode. The attack was that strong it completely decimated the field throwing rocks and debris everywhere. It was only due to the Alakazam that created forcefield barriers that the audience wasn't hit. Once the dust had settled a wary Machoke climbed out of the rubble and shook himself off. Ash noticed immediately that he was limping. "Are you ok to carry on?" he asked earning a nod from his Pokémon.

"Electrode is unable to battle" the referee said, "Walter, send out your second Pokémon."

Looking at the battlefield Walter smirked. It would be perfect for his second Pokémon. "Let's go Weepingbell" and on the field the flycatcher Pokémon appeared.

Curious Ash decided to make the first move "Rock Slide". It was significantly easier for Machoke to use the move as there was tons of debris around him.

"Vine Whip" Walter called out and the bell Pokémon began using its vines to redirect the rocks being thrown at it.

"Innovative" Ash said with approval as his Machoke moved out of the way of its own attack.

"We thought so" Walter said "Poisonpowder" shaking Weepingbell began spewing a purple dust from its mouth that settled over half of the field and began inching its way to Machoke.

"Protect and run towards it" Ash shouted. Machoke threw up a forcefield that the powder settled on rather than bounced off and began running at Weepingbell. He struggled with his limp but tried not to let it show too much but Walter and Ash could see he wasn't running right.

"He's injured, Vine Whip its legs" Walter shouted. Weepingbell saw its opponent running at it and sent out several vines which bounced off the protect. But it kept on and soon the protect started getting smaller and smaller before finally the vine smashed through and hit Machoke on the leg tripping it up. Using its other vines Weepingbell began to ensnare its opponent. Walter cheered as his first victory in this match was about to happen. Soon enough Machoke was bound in the vines with seemingly nowhere to go. Walter looked at the referee and was about to ask if it was over when Ash's voice drew him back.

"Machoke, Flamethrower" Machoke being constricted meant he couldn't draw a full breath, but he could draw enough to make the move work. Walter looked on in horror as his Pokémon was bathed in flames and a horrible screeching sound was heard in the suddenly silent stadium. Eventually Machoke ran out of breath and stopped the attack. Weepingbells vines fell as one away from him and he gradually made his way back to Ash shaking out various limbs to regain feeling in them. Weepingbell was out cold though.

"Weepingbell is unable to battle, Machoke wins" the referee said as the noise gradually increased, and the crowd roared at the battle that had just taken place.

"Damn" Walter said as he recalled his fallen Pokémon, "I felt for sure we'd win there."

"You nearly did" Ash replied "I have a Pokémon that can constrict you too, so I taught all my Pokémon moves for just such an occasion. Not too many people think about what to do if the primary attacking outlet is no longer in use."

"Walter has one Pokémon remaining while Ash has three albeit it one that is heavily injured" the announcer said on the tv. "Can Walter make a comeback? Remember folks, Walter needs to win this or he's out of the competition and Ash goes through with the final match against Pete deciding the group winner."

"He's very good" Laura said impressed at his explanation on why he taught Machoke the move "and he's right, not many people think about situations like that."

"He's always been like that" Delia said "it's what separated him from his peers at a young age. It's stunted him emotionally but intelligence-wise he's certainly up there."

"You're my last hope" Walter said throwing out a Nidorino.

Ash was confused. Why did he not have fully evolved Pokémon when being at the league. Especially if you've been a trainer for as long as Walter has been. He'd ask him later on.

"Machoke, can you continue?" Ash asked. He received a nod in reply. "Ok, lets start off with Earthquake."

"Why does he keep his injured Pokémon out?" Laura asked as they watched the battle. The Nidorino was certainly tough but seemed limited to close combat moves which suited Machoke despite its injuries.

"He trusts his Pokémon" Delia said "and they trust him to say when enough is enough. The next time you see him in person watch how he interacts with them. They all have their own minds and opinions and theyre not shy about saying anything either. Ooh that looked like it hurt!"

Machoke had just thrown the Nidorino away from it onto its back, but it was gradually losing its vitality due to being poisoned early into the fight. The Nidorino though was on its knees. "Rock Slide" Ash said. Gathering the little strength it had remaining Machoke threw a few rocks at the Nidorino who just waited to be hit and was knocked out. Machoke sank to one knee but stood up and looked at the referee.

"Nidorino is unable to battle. Ash Ketchum wins"

Sighing a breath of relief Ash recalled Machoke and made his way down to the field where he met Walter.

"That was a really good battle" Ash said, "question though, why haven't you evolved them?"

"Weepingbell doesn't want to evolve, and Moon Stones are extremely rare" Walter said shrugging his shoulders. "I'm very happy with them though, even more so after that battle. It was incredible and I hope you do well in the tournament." Shaking his hand Walter left down the tunnel. Ash waved to the crowd and then followed only to be met by his P.A who went over what to answer and how.

"Mr Ketchum" a reporter asked "your win against Walter has secured your promotion into the knockout stages and you are now one win away from going through as leader of the group. How does it feel?"

"It feels great" Ash said smiling "it's proof that all the hard work my Pokémon and I have put into training works. Im very proud of Machoke for the effort he put in today."

"Mr Ketchum" another reporter shouted "what did you think of your opponent? Especially after the disdain you showed your previous one."

Joanne was about to but in when Ash held his hand up at her "It's ok, I'll answer it. Mandy insulted me before the matches even begun. I met all three of my group trainers and shook all of their hands when the draw was announced. Pete and Walter were the only ones to shake hands back. Mandy said and I quote "my hands are for pokeballs only" before sneering at us and walking off. And then he insulted me again before we started battling which is why Pikachu demolished him. Even after being humbled, he told you guys that my win was a fluke, despite me allowing him to finish with honour by saving his Golbat from drowning. No, the man has no honour and I have no time for people like that. Walter on the other hand showed me nothing but respect as a fellow trainer. I have no issues with him, and should he ever want a rematch I will happily oblige."

Nods were seen to be going round so Ash said "One more question. I have to get Machoke to a pokemon Centre quickly."

"Mr Ketchum, who is the young lady with you?"

"This is Joanne, my P.A." Ash sad pointing to her with his open hand "a contract I signed with Silph a few months ago has kicked in now I'm at the league and I'm required by the terms of the contract to have a representative of Silph with me at every league battle and event. Mr Suzuki very kindly sent Joanne here to help me navigate the social niceties required to fulfil my end of the contract. I'll even be getting an outfit provided as part of the deal. Thank you."

Turning to Joanne he motioned for her to follow him as they made their way through the parting crowd. He stood off to the side as the reporters interviewed Walter. Listening Ash nodded at certain things he said and was overall pleased that his judgement of him was correct. Coming to a decision he walked forward, and the crowd quieted again. Walter looked at Ash questioningly.

"I want to thank you again for such a good battle" Ash said holding his hand out.

Walter took it and said "it was a good battle. I wish you luck in the tournament."

"I have something you might need" Ash said "my Chalet is number 7. I'll be there in an hour after I've healed Machoke. Can you meet me there?"

Walter looked equally confused and intrigued and nodded his head.

Ash left with Joanne discussing how the interviews went and what he could have done or said differently but overall he hadn't made an arse of himself so he was pleased. An hour later Ash heard a knock on his door and opened it to find Walter standing there with a confused look on his face.

"Come in" Ash said welcoming him in "I'm sorry to have confused you but I have something that you could use and didn't want to put you on the spot in front of those reporters." Ash showed him into the kitchen while he went to his room.

Walter walked in and sat down at the counter next to his PA. "Joanne, right?" he asked holding out his hand,

"It is" she said taking his hand "my commiserations on your battle."

"Ah, the best trainer won" Walter said, "he's so strong and will go far."

"I hope so" Ash said walking back in putting an object wrapped in a scarf on the table. "Now, you do not have to take this, it's simply an offer for you and does not come with any caveats."

Confused Walter picked up the scarf, unwrapped it and gasped at what it was "A Moon Stone?" he breathed looking at Ash wide-eyed "I can't take this."

"It's just going to sit on a shelf at home gathering dust" Ash said patiently "I had two, one I've given to my mother should her Cleffa ever want to evolve fully but this one isn't going to be used. My team is full and none of them have stone requirements to evolve."

"Where did you get it?" Walter asked picking it up and examining it.

"Mt Moon" Ash said "I rescued a Cleffa from a bunch of poachers and found they'd gathered these as well as the Pokémon. So, I claimed them. Now I'm giving you one."

"And you're sure you don't need it?" Walter asked placing it back down.

"I'm positive. I've only two Pokémon left that needs to evolve once more. One of those requires a trade and the other will evolve normally." Ash said nodding.

"Well thank you" Walter said putting the stone into his pocket "is there anything I can do for you?"

After a few seconds thinking Ash nodded "if you're willing to help my Machoke evolve we could call it even? He's been moaning for a while now and we want him to get used to his body if he's going to participate again."

"I can do that" Walter said standing up "shall we go and do it now?"

Nodding Ash stood up and Pikachu jumped onto his shoulders as all four of them left to find a Pokémon centre. Talking to Nurse Joy the explained what they were doing, and she talked them through the process.

"Now Machoke will be very woozy after he evolves. For some reason Trade evolutions usually take up to a day for them to settle so he cannot battle in your next fight."

"That's fine" Ash said, "I have already picked out my next team."

Nodding Joy took both pokeballs out of their hands and placed them into the machine. It intrigued Ash just how brilliant technology was as both pokeballs disappeared and then reappeared in a matter of seconds only they had swapped around.

Picking it up Walter released Machoke who immediately began to glow and expand. Thirty seconds later the light died down and Machamp was standing there examining his body and new arms. Getting used to them was going to be strange. Looking up at Ash he nodded and smiled "thank you" was all he said. Walter recalled him and placed the ball back onto the machine and they swapped around again. Thirty seconds later Ash thanked Walter and they both parted ways after exchanging numbers.

"I'll find something proper to thank you with" Walter said before he walked out.

"Well," Ash said, "let's go meet our new friend, shall we?"

That evening over tea Ash asked Joanne where she was staying. "Oh, Silph booked me a room in a hotel. It's about half an hour away so I'll have to leave soon."

"You could always stay here?" Ash said surprising her "this has four rooms that I've paid for. My mum will be taking one when she arrives next week, so it still leaves two up for grabs."

"I don't know if it would be appropriate" Joanne said unsurely.

"Joanne" Ash said "the room is available if you want it. And that way you can get to know me better so you can understand how I am with people and why. If you're going to be my P.A then you'll need to be around me anyway."

"Oh, it's not that." Joanne said looking around blushing "My boyfriend is staying with me at the hotel. Silph don't know though so please don't tell them."

"Invite him" Ash said looking at her confused "the rooms are big enough that privacy is guaranteed should that be on your mind. And if he's your man then I'm going to meet him eventually anyway aren't i?"

"I don't know" she said unsurely.

"I'll tell you what then" Ash said "stay at the hotel tonight and talk it over with him. You don't have to say yes Joanne. You'll still be my P.A regardless and I won't tell Silph anything. It's none of their business anyway."

"Ok" Joanne said looking much happier "I'll do that."

"Incidentally" Ash said, "why are you here with me at this time and not with him?"

"Oh, he works at the league as a referee" Joanne said "so he's out before I leave and has to give a debrief before he can leave work. He won't be back for a few hours."

"Fair enough." Ash said "weIl if he's concerned about professionalism then what I'll do is I'll talk to Charles Goodshow to make sure he doesn't referee any of my matches, that way bias will never harm his work."

"You can do that?" Joanne asked surprised.

"Yes" Ash said laughing "at some point I'll even introduce you to the Elite Four."

Gobsmacked she continued eating before she eventually had to leave. The next day she arrived and told him her boyfriend had agreed but only after getting Mr Goodshows permission. Immediately Ash rang Lance.

"Hi Lance" Ash said "I'm sorry to disturb you but I can't get through to Charles. Can you chat?"

"Of course," Lance said "what's the issue?"

Ash explained what was going on and the concerns of all involved. "Oh, that won't be an issue" Lance said "as long as he declares himself unable to referee your matches and why to his boss it should be ok. Just make sure he sends the email to you. Forward it on to me and I'll file it."

"Cheers Lance" Ash said hanging up and turning to a gobsmacked Joanne "Sorted. Let him know when you can. Oh, and should I be beaten in the knockout rounds this chalet is fully paid up until the end of the event, so I'll be here the whole time. So, you don't need to worry about finishing somewhere else in a pinch." Standing up Ash went outside where he introduced his family to Machamp. They immediately went over what they'd be doing to help him get used to his new body.

The next day was the day before his final group round battle. At around 10am he received a phone call that his outfit was ready and would be with him in the next hour. Intrigued Ash opened the door to let Amy and Gavin inside who were carrying outfits zipped in bags. Amy spotted Joanne and immediately went over to her and began talking.

"Hi Jo, how's things? How's Karl doing?"

"Hi Aimes, oh, he's ok. Tired from his job but otherwise ok. How's Kevin?"

Ash tuned them out to try and focus on what Gavin was saying but soon grew impatient about listening to colour schemes and patterns and that he should really try some of his ideas before dismissing them. But after a few minutes of listening to him waffle on Ash had enough.

"Ok, enough" he said impatiently "can you just show me the bloody things?"

Huffing Gavin unzipped the outfits and Ash just stared blankly. Gavin took this to be a good sign and immediately talked about what a difficult job it had been working with something with no style.

"Er" Ash said pinching his nose "I'm sorry, you see to have me at a loss here. What exactly have you done?"

Hearing his tone Amy and Joanne walked over to look at them and nodded their approval.

"What do you mean?" Gavin asked looking confused.

"Well from what I can see all you've done is stitched the word 'Silph Co' onto the arms and legs and my name onto the back" Ash said, "is that it?"

"Well yeah" Gavin said "I mean look what you gave me to work with. The material is crap."

"As is your work" Ash said shaking his head in disbelief causing Gavin to gasp in outrage "honestly if I'd have known that all Mr Suzuki wanted was the word Silph on my outfit I'd have bloody tippexed the thing on there. Three days you've been gone and that's it?"

"How dare you!" Gavin said outraged and picking up his bag "I can see that my art is wasted on the likes of you." Ash watched on bemused as Gavin walked out of the chalet muttering about 'philistines' and 'underappreciated'. Ash just continued to stare in disbelief at his outfits.

The sound of giggling puled Ash from his thoughts. Turning around he saw Amy and Joanne leaning on each other holding each other up with tears running down their faces. "Laugh it up" Ash said sarcastically as he turned to the outfits and began to look at them more closely. Sighing he hung them back up and walked away shaking his head leaving a still chuckling Amy and Joanne. For the next few hours all they could hear from him every time he looked over at the still hung outfits was 'waste of bloody time' and 'pretentious nobhead'.

That evening Ash helped Joanne and Karl move into to one of the spare rooms while Joanne happily regaled Karl with what went on with the stylist. Chuckling Karl said "I mean, he's not wrong sweetheart. You could have done what he did, and you can't sew. It's utter twaddle".

"Thanks Karl" Ash shouted from the other room hearing them as he watched the battles from today on catch-up "I knew I liked you for a reason."

The next day Ash decided that he wasn't going to wear the outfit. He wasn't going to be shown up in front of millions of people.

"Ash" Joanne said for the fiftieth time "you have a commitment to Silph. They're not that bad so just put them on."

Grumbling under his breath Ash went and got changed. Walking out he was met with laughter "I'm sorry" Joanne said wiping tears from her eyes and taking a picture of him. Seeing his face made her laugh again and she had to hold herself up on the counter to stop her legs from giving way.

"All it needs is bloody rhinestones" Ash said looking at himself in the mirror prompting a snort from Joanne who laughing asked Ash to stop, or she'd wee herself. Pikachu on the other hand had no such filter and was openly laughing from the countertop.

"Come on" Ash said grumpily attaching his pokeball belt into his waist. "let's get this over with."

Ash walked out of the chalet feeling like a right idiot. How would he hope to be taken seriously if he was dressed up like a clown? Grumpily he made his way to Stadium 6 and checked in ignoring the whispers around him. Joanne had mysteriously disappeared for twenty minutes. Appearing suddenly next to him she apologised that she needed the loo. Ash was starting to get sick of the open stares at his outfit and was very happy when his name was announced. He made his way to the tunnel and waited.

Delia

A few days ago, Delia received a call from an unknown number. Answering it the voice at the other end explained that she was Ash's P.A and thought it would be a good idea to get in contact with her about what her role with Ash was going to be. The girl seemed sweet enough and she really wasn't surprised that Ash invited her and her boyfriend to stay with him for convenience.

She was once again in her restaurant waiting for Ash's match to come on when she received a call from Joanne. Puzzled she answered it only to find Joanne whispering to her.

"I can't talk for long, Ash thinks I'm in the toilet, but I'm going to send you a picture in a minute. Try not to laugh too much."

Puzzled Delia waited for it to come through before she burst out laughing at it when it came through. The customers at the restaurant were very concerned especially when he legs gave way and she had to hold onto the counter after sliding off her chair. Laura, who had been sitting next to her picked up the phone and soon joined her. In no time the picture had made the rounds prompting chuckles from many of them.

"Oh" Delia said wiping tears from her eyes "I'm getting that one framed. Do you have any idea how long I've been trying to get him to dress up in something other than jeans and a top?"

"Oh, that was funny" Laura said helping Delia back to her chair "Oh Ash is on now."

"Ladies and gentlemen, we come to the final battle of Group 9. Pete and Ash have already made it through to the next round, this is to see who tops the group. In the blue corner we have Pete Pebbleman from Celadon City. Pete brushed aside Mandy and Walter only losing three Pokémon along the way. He has shown he certainly belongs here at the Indigo League. And in the Red corner we have a quickly rising star who has used two Pokémon and hasn't lost a single battle. From Pallet Town Ash Ketchum. Over the past few days, we have been gathering facts about the deal Ash alluded to in his interview and apparently the outfit he will be wearing today was made by Gavin himself! Silph are certainly sparing no expense backing Ash."

"Gavin, eh?" Delia said still chuckling "well I doubt Ash will ever use him again."

Chuckling Laura nodded unable to get the picture of Ash from his head.

Ash

This was it. The final group battle. It amazed Ash at how quickly time had passed since he had first arrived here. Had it really been nearly two weeks already? Listening to the announcer he grumbled. Gavin, my arse he thought looking at his outfit again. Ignoring that he centered himself for the match ahead. Hearing his name being called Ash took a deep breath and walked out onto the field to utter silence. Gradually the noise rose and Ash breathed easier.

"Erm" Pete said looking at Ash.

"Don't" Ash said warningly "just don't. I feel like a Liquorice Allsort."

"Battlers" the referee said interrupting their chat "Todays battle will take place on the ice field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 3 on 3 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side gets any points. Standard move rules apply. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Trainers get ready to send out your first Pokémon."

Walking into the box Ash prepared to call out his Pokémon when the referee pressed his button and the Ice Field rose out of the ground.

"Let's go Seel" Pete said as he threw his ball out and a sealion Pokémon appeared.

"Blastoise" Ash shouted "it's showtime." As his shiny turtle appeared.

"Begin" the referee shouted.

"Seel use Ice Beam" Pete said feeling very nervous. His opponent looked strong.

"Use your own Ice Beam" Ash shouted and soon both attacks collided in the air with Blastoise's quickly overpowering the smaller Pokémon sending it skidding back where it struggled to right itself "Aqua Jet" and before Seel could look up it was smashed into sending into one of the ice pillars. Blastoise had decided to lazily skid around on the ice while it waited doing a pirouette much to the delight of the crowd. Chuckling Ash let his Pokémon have some fun while they waited for Seel to get up. Ash found it very strange that Pete didn't recall his clearly severely injured Pokémon. "Blastoise, finish it with Ice Beam" Ash called. Hearing Ash call out a move Blastoise focused and sent another beam of ice into the poor Seel and knocked it out.

"Seel is unable to battle, Blastoise wins. Pete send out our second Pokémon" the referee called.

Strangely Pete looked conflicted but sent out a Pokémon anyway.

"And Pete sends out his Cloyster" the announcer said, "after his Seel was demolished can Pete make a comeback?"

The battle wasn't as one-sided as the previous one had been, but Blastoise was clearly the stronger Pokémon and soon enough a well-placed Skull Bash had knocked it out. Blastoise made his way back to Ash sporting a few new bruises but otherwise still fine.

"And just like that Pete is down to one Pokémon remaining" the announcer shouted, "it will be a tall order to beat Ash and his Blastoise from here, but can Pete pull off a shock?"

Recalling his downed Pokémon Pete looked over at his opponent who along with his Pokémon was staring intently at him. He had lost this match, was there any point in continuing when he was already through? He decided that yes there was, he owed it to his Pokémon to see the battle through.

"Arcanine" he called throwing his pokeball "It's all on you now pal" as his huge fire dog appeared and pawed the ice nervously. Looking at his trainer he growled softly at him. Pete didn't understand but strangely his opponent shouted over to him "He's just asked 'why does it always have to be ice?'"

Chuckling he reassured his Pokémon that it was just luck before the referee interrupted them "Arcanine vs Blastoise, begin."

"Aqua Jet"

"Extremespeed"

"Ice Beam"

"Flamethrower"

The battle raged on for longer than Ash would have wanted but Ash noticed something that his opponent didn't seem to. "Skid around him and use Ice Beam"

"Track him and use Flamethrower" Pete called out.

Soon enough Ash shouted out "Into the water Blastoise" which confused Pete until he noticed what Ash had done. Using Arcanines Flamethrower he had melted the ice and created a huge pool but Arcanine had isolated itself on a single pontoon of ice. He was a sitting duck.

"Arcanine you must swim over to the side quickly" Pete desperately called out as his dog frantically obeyed and began to make its way to the side where there was a platform to stand on..

"Blastoise, Aqua Jet" Ash called out and from the side Arcanine was hit making it go underwater. Desperately it paddled up to the surface where it was hit again making it sink deeper and it frantically made its way up to the surface to breathe.

"I forfeit" Pete shouted looking at his stricken dog.

"Blastoise, help it out of the pool" Ash said. Gently Blastoise came up from underneath, so it resembled an island and carried the poor dog over to the side where it gratefully collapsed onto the platform. "Well done" Ash shouted over to a concerned Pete. "You did the right thing and proved to the world that no match is worth your Pokémon's health or life. You have my respect." Ash clasped his hands and bowed at Pete before recalling Blastoise and making his way down the steps where he shook Pete's hand and made his way down the tunnel.

Immediately the reporters swarmed him again, but Ash found he didn't have much patience today. Sighing though he knew he'd have to answer a few questions.

"Mr Ketchum" one asked "you're now through as group leader. You must be pleased?"

"I am yes" Ash said, "I've had some good battles here already but I'm grateful for the effort my Pokémon put in. They deserve just as much praise if not more."

"What did you think of your opponent today?" another asked "you swept him fairly easily."

"No, I didn't" Ash retorted "they were some tough battles. I think he was expecting a grass type opponent judging by his last Pokémon and I'm sure if he knew who I was planning to send out he'd change his mind given another chance. But that's just bad luck. On another day he could have won. The field didn't help him, it helped me."

"Mr Ketchum" one asked "your outfit is rather eye catching. It looks really good. What made you decide on that?"

"I didn't" Ash said straight-faced "And I think you're talking shit. I was given outfits to choose from and they were all crap. I gave Gavin my normal battle outfit and this is what he did to them. I certainly didn't choose to wear this. But I have commitments to Silph I need to go along with. Ultimately this is only minor but hopefully I can meet with their style team and come up with something that suits everyone. For now though I'm stuck with this. Thank you."

Joanne quickly pulled him away from the reporters before he got himself into trouble or sued by Gavin for defamation and they made their way back to the chalet. Ash immediately got changed into his comfy clothes and sighed with relief as he sat down. He had done it. He had made it to the knockout tournament. From now on it was all or nothing.

Chapter 38: Chapter 39

Chapter Text

Chapter 38- The Knockout stages begins.

That evening Ash received a call from Mr Suzuki. He wasn't very happy that Ash had disparaged Gavin, but Ash stuck to his beliefs.

"Look" Ash said "I'm quite happy to advertise that I'm sponsored by Silph, that I have no issue with. What I'm unhappy with is the style you guys seem to want me to go for. I'm not a cowboy, I'm not a Policeman and I'm certainly not wearing spandex! Tell me an Elite Four member or a Champion that looks like that?"

"Ash" Mr Suzuki said, "we get that, but you could have kept it private and discussed with us what the issue was."

"I did" Ash said "and I was ignored. Amy knew I was unhappy with what Gavin did and left laughing her arse off, knowing I'd have no choice but to wear what he made. That to me showed that you lot didn't care how I felt about being made into a ridiculous show pony only here for Silph's amusement. That was not in the contract Mr Suzuki."

"That is not how we intended it to look like" Mr Suzuki said sighing.

"Well, it's how it came across" Ash said "Now, as I said I have no issues with meeting with your stylists to come up with something that I like and feel comfortable wearing and we can all be happy. But I won't be made a fool of."

"Ok" Mr Suzuki said "I'll send a team round in the morning. Do me a favour and come up with some ideas. Oh, and maybe don't insult them. They're here to help you." hanging up abruptly Ash shook his head at the phone. Another bloody meeting with people he really didn't want to interact with.

As it was only seven pm Ash decided to go for a walk to the clothes stores they had on site to try and get some ideas as to what he'd feel and look good in. Ignoring the looks of people, he carried on pulling different clothes off the rail to see if they'd suit him. After the third store Ash gave up. He was comfy in what he normally wore, and it had been his outfit for over a year now, so he was used to it. Sitting down on a bench he let the world pass him by as he thought over how far he'd come in a year and how far he still had to go. He knew that once the tournament was over he'd have no direction and wondered how he would cope with that.

"What do we do after the tournament Pi?" he asked quietly.

"I've been wondering that" Pikachu said, "I know the reason you were created has passed but was that it?"

"How do you mean?" Ash asked confused.

"Well," Pi started "Arceus told you that you were created to combat Mewtwo. But that's been over a month ago now. Is that it? Do you just live your life now? I know you dreamed of winning the Indigo League and we have a great chance of doing that but what then? You now know that the Elite Four and Blue didn't have anything to do with your dads disappearance so winning the league to expose them is pointless."

"I know" Ash said sighing heavily "which is what's very annoying. I feel like I've lost the drive to win because of that. We easily breezed through the group stage and I know we'll do the same in the knockouts. But what next?"

"Well," Pi said "you still haven't found your dad yet, and there's also Silver to find. After that you've got your house to finish and the meetings with Sam, so we've still got projects. I'm sure there'll be more world-ending disasters that you'll find yourself in."

Laughing Ash stood up and Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder. Walking home Ash still hadn't come to any kind of decision about where his future lay. For now though he knew he had to win the league. He'd talked a good game, now he had to back it up.

The next day he was just arriving back at his chalet from a morning run when he noticed two cars parked outside his door. Confused Ash walked up to them, but they were all strangely empty. Thinking nothing of it he put the key in the door and stopped. He could hear noises inside. Looking at Pi he focused on what could be a robbery. Opening the door he was immediately hit with a wall of smell that made his mouth water. Walking into the living room he stopped as he saw five people on the couches leaning over the coffee table chatting away. Confused Ash was going to ask them who they were when he heard voices in the kitchen too. Ignoring the living room for a moment he walked into the kitchen and saw at the kitchen counter chatting away Mr Suzuki and his mum eating what looked like Ramen.

"Erm" Ash said eloquently "hello".

"Ashy!" Delia said standing up and rushing to give him a hug "oh it's good to see you."

"Hi Mum" he replied, "I thought you were only getting here on Sunday?"

"I was originally" Delia said, "but the garden people finished a few days early and we decided to just come straight here."

"Oh right" he replied still a bit dazed "erm, who are the people on my couches?"

"They're your stylists" Mr Suzuki said standing up and shaking Ash's hand "and I am here because I want this whole issue sorted out before your next battle. When is that incidentally?"

"Oh, it's on Monday." Ash said "the final group battle is today so they're using the weekend to repair any damages to the fields. There'll be four battles a day for the top 32 so I'll get a four-day rest when I win, then 3 battles a day, then 2 and then one a day until the final so the final will be a week on Sunday. It's crazy that there's just five battles for me left."

"Confidence" Mr Suzuki said beaming "that's what we like to see. Now, shall we get on with the show?"

Nodding the three made their way into the living room to discuss what Ash would wear.

"Ash" Mr Suzuki said "could you tell us why you didn't like the outfit Gavin made for you?"

"Really?" Ash asked raising an eyebrow "you need an explanation for that?" pointing to where the outfits were hung up on the back of the door. "Do you have glaucoma?"

"Ash" Delia said warningly "watch your tone."

Shaking his head Ash went into detail about why he hated them. From the arrogance of Gavin to the 'can't-be-arsed' job he did of ruining his clothes to how rude Amy was about the situation.

"I now have one outfit that isn't ruined to battle in. Mum made them for me, so she has a better idea of what I usually wear." Ash said nodding to his mum "we did buy a load of clothes not too long ago that I feel comfy in but battle-wise I had three, now I have just one."

"So comfy, not flamboyant, practical" a lady said from the couch putting several outfit pictures away leaving around eight on the table. "Do you want anything that signifies you're an aura wielder?"

"Not if it makes me look like a guardian" Ash said which resulted in two outfits disappearing.

"So we're left with these six" the lady said "now, tell me which ones you don't like and why. There has to be a reason because if we combine a few we could get the perfect outfit for you."

Nodding Ash went over the pros and cons of every outfit left on the table but couldn't really come to a decision. Quietly he asked his mum "Am I being picky?"

"No" Delia said picking up some of the pictures "they're just not you."

"Well why can't you just draw an outfit for me instead of making it and give it to them?" Ash said scratching his head "every battle outfit I wear is made by you and if the job Gavin did wasn't sparkly, I wouldn't mind it as much."

"That's an interesting idea" Mr Suzuki said interrupting what they thought was a quiet conversation "he obviously likes what he's wearing now. Why not just adapt that?"

"It's not marketable" the lady said sighing "Lance has his capes, Steven his suit, Cynthia her black number. They make a fortune from those from people who want to be just like them. Ash's outfit is really simple."

"Lady" Ash said shaking his head at her "I don't need this to be marketable. I make more than enough from battles and book sales. That's where you lot are going wrong, you're trying to turn me into a fashion icon and I'm never going to be one. I have no desire to parade what I wear on catwalks or things like that. I just want an outfit I feel comfortable in to battle. That's it. It's going to get dirty, it's going to get ripped but it's also just as easy to repair with a needle and thread. That's what I've been doing to these outfits for the past year. Your folly is that you want to make money from these outfits."

"Ash" Mr Suzuki said "Silph is first and foremost a business. Anything we try and sell is because we want to make money on them. It's what keeps the world turning for us and having an outfit specially made for you will increase our sales revenue when you win the League."

"By that logic I could wear a tutu and increase the sales of tutus" Ash said deadpanned "and no before you think it, I am not wearing a tutu. Any outfit I wear will be sold on mass when I win. So, any outfit I wear for battle should be fine."

"Very well" Mr Suzuki said sighing at how difficult Ash was being "Delia, could you get a sketch made for Ash within the next few days please as well as sizes? He's still growing so they'll likely have to be slightly too big."

"I don't want my name on the back either, especially looking like that" Ash said suddenly pointing at Gavins work "people will know my name. If you must have something on the back my favourite number is 14. Silph 14 is fine by me."

"Well at least it's progress" Mr Suzuki said standing up looking at his watch "I must be going, I hope to speak to you soon. Delia, it's been a pleasure."

The next hour was Delia and the group going over placement for sponsors, number sizes and other things that went over Ash's head. After twenty minutes Ash stood up and walked off uncaring on if he was being rude. Fixing himself and Pikachu some food they went to their room and waited for people to leave. The draw for the next round would take place on Sunday afternoon at the main stadium. Apparently, it was a big secret on how they were picked so Ash decided to have a look at the profiles of group winners to see what Pokémon they used. Only six people won their groups with maximum points, the number of draws astounded Ash. Gary, Ash and Jon had all won their three heats. The interesting thing was Gary had lost a few Pokémon whereas Jon blitzed his way through with just his Dragonair. Ash was very surprised it was still a Dragonair after all this time but maybe it had only just evolved when he faced it. Either way like Ash very few of his opponents would be able to know what his team consisted of, at least until the last 16.

A few hours later Ash walked into the living room and switched on the TV to watch the final match of the group stages. His mum came and sat beside him as they watched a young woman wearing gothic looking clothes beat an elderly man.

"And there you have it ladies and gentlemen. The final match of the group stages is over. A big congratulations to all the trainers that went though and commiserations to those that have unfortunately gone home. The draw for the last 32 is on Sunday at 1pm and will be streamed live. I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and be sure to switch on again soon."

"Well Ash" Delia said quietly "you made it to the knockout stages. You're so close now."

"We are" Ash said resolutely "we're gonna win mum. We're gonna win."

The next few days flew by in a flash for Ash. Between his training, Silph, his mum, his house, his PA and getting reacquainted with his Venusaur he couldn't believe that it was 12pm on Sunday already.

Walking into the league building Ash reflected that just over two weeks ago he was here to be entered into the group draw for the last 32. Looking around Ash saw Gary over to the side with his dad, John was glaring at Ash which he ignored, and a few others were chatting to each other. Leaning against the wall Ash waited for the draw.

"Everybody" the receptionist said "if you could please make your way through to the conference room on your right. Mr Goodshow will be waiting to speak to you all."

Nodding Ash made his way into the room that was set up with 32 chairs facing a stage that had a long table with a few glass bowls on it. Sitting down next to a stranger made Ash feel slightly uneasy but Charles and the Elite Four walked out onto the stage. Looking around he saw several cameras set up. He had forgotten this was being streamed.

"Hello all" Charles said "Now, first of all congratulations for making it to the knockout stages. It's shown that you all have done extremely well in raising your Pokémon. With that being said we're about to do the draw for the final 32. So could I please have the 16 trainers who won their groups please stand up. Good. now when I call your name you're going to come up to the stage and draw a name from the first bowl. The name you pick will be your opponent in the next round. To ensure you don't pick someone who was in your group Lance will be placing the names of the people you can battle into the bowl, and you will draw them out, the next bowl will then tell you're your time slot and the third bowl will be the day. Battles will commence tomorrow at 10am, 12pm, 2pm and finally 4pm. So, in no particular order can Gary Oak come to the stage please."

And so, it went on. Gary drew a lady named Melissa at 10am on Tuesday, John a man named Tom on Wednesday at 12pm and then it was Ash's turn. "Ash Ketchum, if you would?"

Walking onto the stage he noticed there were only four balls left to choose in each bowl. Shrugging he picked the three balls and Lance opened them. "You will be facing Jeanette Fisher, Tuesday at 4pm." Nodding Ash made his way back to his seat to watch the rest. Twenty minutes later they were all seated again.

"Well, there we have it folks. 16 fantastic battles just waiting to be had. I wish you all the best of luck."

Ash stood and began to leave, eager to get back to his chalet to study Jeanette. He hadn't seen any of her battles, so she was an unknown prospect to Ash. Walking out of the building Ash had to adjust his eyes as he made his way to his Chalet. Walking in he said hello to Jo, Karl who was off today and his mum. Walking into his room he logged onto the computer and pulled up Jeanettes trainer card. Interesting, Ash thought. Logging off he walked into the kitchen to fix him and Pikachu a drink. Heading into the living room he sat down and just listened to the conversation. once they had finished Delia asked him if he was ok.

"Yeah" Ash said, "I was just looking at my opponent and the Pokémon she's used."

"Oh" Delia asked "and?"

"I'm in two minds." Ash replied "every Pokémon she's sent out has been a grass or bug type. And I have two Pokémon that will decimate her but I don't know if I'll be allowed to."

"Why?" Jo asked confused "shouldn't you want to win?"

"It's the manner of winning" Ash replied "I know I'm arrogant at times, but I literally can't lose to her. The Pokémon she's revealed so far are all deathly weak to Charizard and Shelgon."

"Ah" Karl said, "I see your issue."

"Can you explain it to us mortals?" Jo asked archly.

"Fire destroys grass and bugs" Karl said "And if Ash is not careful with the moves he uses he could legally kill Jeanettes Pokémon because it's in an official battle. But he also wants to win the tournament and the quickest and easiest way would be to use a fire type."

"So use a different Pokémon" Delia said wondering what the issue is "if you know you could severely injure her Pokémon then don't."

"It's something I'll think about" Ash said "for now though I'm hungry. Do you all fancy Chinese for tea?"

The weekend was spent relaxing with his mum and going over how good the house was looking now. The lake had been dug and the following week the river would be shifted to flow in and out of it. Blastoise was particularly excited about having his own lake to laze about in. Now Ash just had to find somewhere for Shelgon and Charizard. Machamp and Pikachu were happy being in the house. A problem for another day Ash thought as he switched on the TV to watch the battles today. After the third battle a knock was heard on Ash's door. Opening it he was surprised to find Sam and Blue there with Laura.

"Hello" Ash said welcoming them all inside. Laura gave him a hug and immediately went to find Delia.

"Hello Ash" Sam said sitting down heavily "How are you doing? Are you ready for tomorrow"

"I'm alright" Ash replied after getting three sodas out of the fridge and handing them one each, "my battle should be easy tomorrow but apart from that everything's good."

"Please don't tell me you're channelling Gary?" Blue said groaning as he opened his drink. Ash shot him a quizzical look and he continued "that's one of the reasons we are here. I had to pull Laura away from throttling him and she's the reasonable one out of us. He refuses to take his opponent seriously. Melissa has placed in the final four here twice in the last three years and isn't a joke but he just waved us off. You're not being like that are you?"

"No" Ash said shaking his head "but I have a bit of a dilemma to try and figure out. Jeanettes Pokémon are Bug/Grass Pokémon. Charizard would walk through them, but I'm concerned about the lethality aspect of using him."

"Ah yes" Sam said looking thoughtful "I can see why you'd be concerned."

"I already have the black mark against my trainer card because I nearly killed Koga's Venomoth" Ash said leaning his head back and looking at the ceiling "adding Jeanettes Pokémon would see me permanently banned."

"No, it wouldn't" Blue said, "as long as you don't use Blast Burn then Jeanette has no legal recourse."

"So just a moral one of me killing three of her Pokémon, eh?" Ash chuckled humourlessly.

"I sympathise Ash" Sam said, "you can always use another Pokémon."

"Mum suggested that one." Ash said "I think that may be the safest option but I'm going to repeatedly come up against this issue and I'm not going to keep forfeiting a battle against a grass type that's sent out against me because I could kill it. I'm lucky Machamp didn't have STAB and was constricted against the Weepingbell in my second fight."

"All I can tell you is that it's the trainer's fault if they send out a grass type against a fire type." Blue said leaning forward "these finals are all about taking advantage of anything that comes your way. The fact you know you can win doesn't mean you will, but it's not your fault you have a Pokémon to combat another type. It's how the battles have always been. It's why a lot of people rely on type advantage to start with, to give them an edge. We know you're worried and why but the decision is yours and yours alone." Finishing his drink, he clapped Ash on the shoulder and went into the kitchen to talk to Delia.

"He's right" Sam said "my own Charizard is incredibly gifted in controlling his fire and the heat that comes from it. Your own could benefit from training with him on this but it's too late at the minute. You'll make the right choice Ash; I know you will." Standing up he joined his son and Daughter-in-law in the kitchen. Ash decided the best thing to do was to have a chat with his Pokémon about it. Maybe they could offer some insights.

The next day Ash was sat in the stands with Blue, Sam, Laura and Delia watching Gary's match. Both were down to their final Pokémon and whoever won would deserve to progress.

"Nidoking, Horn Attack" Gary called out. His big purple Rhino charged forwards at the Megaton Pokémon who waited for his trainer to call out a move.

"Golem, catch the horn and Seismic Toss" Melissa shouted, and Golem did just that. He braced himself and caught the Nidokings horn struggling to hold it back, finding grip it set its feet and then delivered a brutal Seismic Toss and slammed Gary's Pokémon down to the battlefield. The crowd was quiet as they waited to see if Nidoking would rise. It didn't.

"Nidoking is unable to battle. Golem wins and Melissa moves onto the final 16" the referee shouted to a raucous cheer from the crowd.

"Wow" Ash commented "Gary lost, eh?"

Shaking his head and sighing Blue stood up and walked out of the seated area being followed by Sam and Laura. Delia and Ash followed at a more sedate pace so they could speak to him first. Ash caught the tail end of the conversation.

"She got lucky, Nidoking was tired" Gary said waving them off and starting to walk away. Ash was furious at the boy.

"Still the same old Gary, eh?" Ash said walking forward ignoring the warning look from Delia and Blue. "Still the same arrogant little boy that for years now has been full of his own self-importance. Do me a favour and keep this up because you're no threat to me in a battle and you're certainly no threat to take your dad's title."

"What would you know about it?" Gary said turning red in anger "are you still jealous that I've never lost to you."

"I've never lost to you either you cretin" Ash said getting in his face and staring down at him "the one thing we've competed in we drew. Since then I've wanted nothing to do with you for this very reason. You're arrogant, entitled, spoiled and every other word I could use for pathetic. The fact you believe you lost because your Pokémon was tired says everything we already knew about you. You have no accountability for your own actions. And when you have your dad, the current champion, your grandfather, a former champion and your mother an extremely successful breeder giving you advice and you blatantly ignore it because you believe you know best just reiterates the fact you'll never amount to anything. I suggest you take a good long look in the mirror because at the rate you're going you'll never be anything but the you you are now."

Shaking his head at a stunned Gary Ash nodded to the assembled group and walked off to prepare for his own battle later on. Seeing Gary lose had resolved Ash's determination to win the whole thing.

Sitting down in his seat Ash quietly observed the next few battles. His mum had re-joined him, but the others hadn't. Delia didn't say anything to him about his blow up because it had been a long time coming. Ash had showed remarkable restraint in not punching Gary over the years. Some of the comments had been downright cruel. As the third battle finished Ash stood up, kissed his mum on her cheek and made his way down to the trainers section of the stadium. Walking up to the receptionist he registered his three Pokémon and waited in the tunnel to be called. Finally his battle was about to begin.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we come to the final battle of the day. Seven trainers have already gone through to the last 16 after some amazing battles and now we come to the eighth. In the red corner we have a lady who is participating in her second tournament. Please give a big cheer for Jeanette Fisher!"

Ash concentrated on breathing as he waited for his name to be called.

"And in the Blue corner we have a rising star in the making. So far, he has used just three Pokémon and hasn't lost any in a single battle. He swept aside his previous opponents; can he do the same today? Please give it up for Ash Ketchum!"

Steeling himself Ash walked out onto the battlefield and shook hands with Jeanette. He tuned out the crowd to focus on the referee.

"Battlers" the referee said "Todays battle will take place on the grass field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 3 on 3 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side gets any points. Standard move rules apply. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Trainers get ready to send out your first Pokémon."

Nodding Ash made his way to the trainers box and watched as the referee pressed a button and the field split apart to reveal a grass field.

"Let's go Beedrill" Jeanette shouted as she released a huge bee. Immediately it started buzzing around her side of the field. Silently Ash observed her before releasing his Pokémon. The crowd stopped shouting as it immediately became very hot, and the pressure soon became unbearable as Ash's Pokémon materialised. As it stopped glowing the crowd looked at the Pokémon that had appeared. Snorting, Charizard opened his eyes and cracked his neck before focusing on his opponent. Taking a step forward he unleashed his wings and roared at the Beedrill who flew and hid behind Jeanette.

"Easy Pal" Ash said quietly.

Turning to Ash he growled "you chose me then." It wasn't a question. But Ash answered anyway.

"Yes" he said "Gary's decision to not take his opponent seriously resolved my mind. Jeanette is here for a reason. But so are we and to not send you out would be a disservice. We'll go with plan B though, for now."

Nodding Charizard focused on his opponent who had stopped cowering behind its trainer and appeared on the field.

"Ref?" Jeanette asked quietly. But because of the silence of the crowd everyone could hear. "I have nothing but Grass and Bug types. What are the rules here?"

"Anything but restricted moves go" the referee said looking at her sadly. "I'm sorry Jeanette."

"Oh" she said quietly to herself as she looked at her Pokémon and then her opponent. Enlarging her pokeball she was about to recall Beedrill when Ash shouted over as he knew she was about to forfeit.

"Jeanette. This battle has caused a moral dilemma for me. I checked your trainer profile and knew what you had used so far and I knew I could easily beat that. And for days now I've wrestled with using Charizard or not. But I owe it to him to be able to shine after all the hard work he's put in over the last year. I talked it over with a few people and my Pokémon as well and we came up with a compromise. Would you like to hear it?"

Lowering the pokeball she nodded. "We won't use any fire move. Any use of a fire move will result in Charizard being recalled and unable to take part in our battle again. Is that acceptable?"

The referee was about to say something when he received a call on the phone in his box. Answering it he listened and then nodded.

"I've just had a call from Mr Goodshow. The terms are acceptable from him. Any fire moves result in a disqualification for Charizard. Jeanette, it's your decision."

Nodding Jeanette shouted over "I agree. Thank you, Ash."

"It's ok. Ref, whenever you're ready" he replied.

"Battlers Begin" he called.

"Beedrill use Twinneedle" Jeanette shouted and her Pokémon charged at Charizard launching needles from its abdomen.

Normally Ash would just burn them but instead he shouted "Dragonbreath"

Immediately Charizard recoiled his head and shot a chartreuse beam of light which charged through the needles and hit Beedrill who was knocked it to the side screeching. It certainly felt that Jeanette observed.

"Beedrill Double Team and Poison Jab" Jeanette called out and her bee created replicas of itself and charged at Charizard as its stingers on its arms glowed purple.

"Four o'clock Charizard, Air Slash" Ash calmly said. Charizard did a pirouette and levelled its wings out sending scythes of air at the Beedrill who was hit and flew backwards from the impact into the ground "Dragonbreath again" Beedrill was struggling to get up when it was hit again by the beam and was sent careering backwards into the pillar supporting the trainers box.

"Beedrill is unable to battle. Charizard wins. Jeanette send out your second Pokémon." The referee shouted over the roar of the crowd. Recalling her Beedrill she suspected she'd lose this match. His Pokémon hadn't taken a hit again and had beaten her even with its primary weapon disabled. But she had come this far, and her Pokémon had helped her get here so she was determined to make them as proud of her as she was of them.

"Scyther to the field" she shouted as her big mantis appeared and observed its opponent. "Scyther, he can't use a fire move so don't worry."

Curious the mantis looked at his opponent who simply stood there waiting and observing.

"Double Team and Slash" Jeanette shouted and her bug jumped forward obeying and soon several copies were wending their way to its foe with its blades glowing white.

"Eleven O'clock, Dragonbreath" Ash responded. The copies ceased to be when Sycther took the hit and was sent spiralling over to the side of the field.

"How do you know where my Pokémon are?" Jeanette shouted irritated that her strategy that had been her main one throughout her journey had been so effectively neutralised. Ash simply smiled at her making her more frustrated.

"Air Slash" Ash shouted and Charizard did the same he had done to the Beedrill and pirouetted sending scythes of air at the Scyther who did everything it could to dodge them. Panting it focused on Charizard who had not moved from where he started. Jeanette called for him to focus and it did so and became a lot calmer. The Dragonbreath had done a lot of damage to it, but he was strong.

"Slash" Jeanette shouted, and her Pokémon charged forward again. Ash was kind of glad that he had disabled the fire element as it didn't seem like her Pokémon had many ranged attacks. It would have been over with in three moves at this rate. It was the downside of a lot of Pokémon and their trainers who couldn't adapt to a ranged battle with static Pokémon.

Ash waited for Scyther to get within ten yards before shouting "Dragonbreath" which smashed into the Scyther at an alarming rate sending it tumbling across the field where it lay unmoving.

"And Ash wins his second battle with his Charizard. It's interesting to note that his Charizard has yet to move from where it started." The announcer shouted over the speakers. Shaking his head Ash wondered on how long it would take them to notice that quirk of the battle.

"Scyther is unable to battle. Charizard wins. Jeanette, please release your final Pokémon."

Sighing knowing she had lost she mumbled something to her Pokéball before throwing it. The entire crowd went silent at what she'd released.

Charizard was stunned in disbelief. Turning to Ash he growled "Really?"

"Hey, we don't get to choose what our opponent sends out pal" Ash said chuckling "there's obviously a reason she still has a Bellsprout in her second year of coming here."

Shaking his head Charizard focused on his opponent. "A bloody Bellsprout" he mumbled.

"Hey" Bellsprout shouted as it walked over to Charizard with no fear leaving everyone in awe at the fearless little weed as it poked Charizard on the shin "just because I'm small doesn't mean you can look down on me."

"Looking down on you is mandatory given how small you are" Charizard said flabbergasted at the audacity of its opponent. "Now get back over there before I kick you."

"You wouldn't dare" it shouted looking up at the big red dragon "you don't have the balls."

Ash at this point was trying and failing to hold himself up as he cried with laughter. The crowd, Jeanette and the referee were perplexed at what was going on.

"Erm can someone tell me what's happening?" the referee asked confused.

In between bouts of laughter Ash explained the conversation that was happening down on the field making everyone chuckle. "Oh, I'm glad you carried on Jeanette" Ash said wiping away tears from his face "thank you."

Pulling himself together the referee said "Bellsprout vs Charizard. Begin."

Ash who was still crying laughing only caught the 'begin' part as the argument was still raging on down on the field. Jeanette for her part was shouting moves but being ignored.

"You are small" Charizard said patiently "compared to me."

"I'm big enough to kick your scaly arse though" Bellsprout retorted.

"Ash" Charizard growled turning towards him "am I still banned from using fire moves?"

"Yeah mate, you're still banned from using fire moves" Ash replied trying to pull himself together.

"Can I kick it at least?" Charizard asked ignoring the wittering from the little grass type who continued to poke him in the leg while arguing her point.

"Yeah" Ash said, "the referee said begin about three minutes ago now."

Looking down at the little weed he moved his leg back and swung it forward and kicked it in the face sending it arcing over the field where it bounced a few times. To Charizard's utter disbelief it got back up, slowly but still arguing with him as it tried to make its way back over swaying as if drunk.

"You kicked me in the face!" Bellsprout shouted as it got closer "I can't believe the audacity of you."

Charizard had had enough and took a few steps forward and kicked it again sending it flying over the field and embedding it in the wall. Snorting Charizard turned to find his trainer had disappeared from his box. Wondering what was going on he flapped his wings and flew over to the box only to find Ash was curled up into a ball crying with laughter looking like he was struggling to breath.

"Hey" he shouted at Ash "the match is over. Get a grip of yourself" before he alighted back onto the field and waited for the ref to announce he had won.

"Bellsprout is unable to battle. Ash and Charizard move on to the round of 16." The ref shouted causing the crowd to cheer like crazy.

"Is Ash ok?" a voice asked him as he waited on the field for his trainer to descend. Looking around he saw it was Jeanette. Snorting he looked at the box Ash was still in and shook his head. Both of them observed a hand grasp at the railing from inside the box as it pulled itself up revealing Ash who was trying to breathe properly. Shaking his head again Charizard extended his wings and took off to fly back to the chalet leaving his trainer behind. It took at least another twenty minutes for Ash to be able to descend the box, but his face was bright red. Walking down he saw that Jeanette had patiently waited for him to shake his hand and congratulate him.

"We need to battle again. I don't care when but please battle me again" Ash said shaking her hand laughing. Nodding Jeanette led them down the tunnel where Ash was still chuckling to do their press obligations. Joanne met him and went over the statement he could give.

"Mr Ketchum" a reporter asked, "after the unusual battle that took place what can you tell us about your decision to limit your Charizard in a battle of such importance."

"Well, I discussed it with a few people when I found out what Pokémon Jeanette had used so far" Ash replied "grass Pokémon are mortally weak to fire type Pokémon. They could easily be killed by a fire attack, and I already have a mark against me because my Charizard knows the most lethal move Blast Burn. So, it was a difficult decision on if I would use him."

"Why did you?" the same reporter asked.

"I used him because to not would be a disservice to not only him for his hard work in helping me get here but also to Jeanette who deserved my full attention." Ash said "the 'no fire' rule was the only way I could safely use him and not be responsible for the death of Jeanettes Pokémon."

"Mr Ketchum" a reporter asked, "given your resounding win do you think you can go all the way?"

"I certainly believe I can" Ash said smiling "I'm not here to simply take part."

"Do you hope for a tougher opponent in the next round?" the next reporter asked.

"Jeanette is tough" Ash said frowning "they don't hand out badges in lucky bags and she's been here twice now. She's here on merit."

"One final question" Joanne said interrupting them.

"Mr Ketchum" a blonde-haired reporter asked smirking "given your distaste for the outfit Gavin made and the lack of a new one so far have Silph cut ties with you for the blatant disrespect given to one of the premier designers?"

"Interesting way of phrasing that" Ash said looking right at her "No, Silph got in touch with me after the battle and we agreed I would need a new outfit, one we all agreed on. The day after Mr Suzuki and his team of designers came round to my chalet and over a few hours we made a lot of progress into what I'd wear to my battles. I'm unsure on when I'll get my new outfit, but I know it will be soon. Who knows, maybe it'll be for the next round. Thank you all."

Leading them through the building Joanne kept up a steady stream of what Ash would have planned over the next few days. Nodding along Ash barely listened to what she was saying as he noticed a couple sat down at a café. Walking over he cleared his throat causing them to look up.

"Hello Jessie, hello James. Fancy seeing you here" Ash said.

"Hi Ash" James said standing up and shaking his hand "congratulations on your win."

"Thanks" Ash said nodding "Oh this is Joanne, my PA. Joanne, this is Jessie and James."

After a few minutes of small talk James asked quietly "is there somewhere we could talk in private?"

Curious Ash nodded "my chalet is private. My mother will be there, and Joanne and her boyfriend live there with me. But my room is private."

Nodding James paid for their drinks and followed Ash to his chalet. Jessie and James were very nervous as this would be the first time they'd ever meet his mum.

"She won't bite" Ash laughed as he opened the door. "Mum, are you here?"

"In the kitchen Ash" Delia shouted back. Making their way in Ash sat at the counter waiting for his mum to get her head from inside the fridge. James was transfixed at the scene of Delia being bent over in front of him and looked to be starting to drool before Jessie saw his face and cracked him over the head while Ash glared at him.

Digging out what she was looking for she stood back up, turned around and looked up, her eyes instantly narrowing at the guests. "Do you want me here for this?" she asked Ash.

"Yeah, I do" Ash said turning to Joanne "I'm sorry, but this is something that concerns our family."

"It's ok" Joanne said a little sad she wouldn't get to take part but knowing Ash was simply a client "I have a date with Karl tonight, so I need to get ready for that."

Waiting for her to walk away Ash motioned for them all to go outside to the patio. Sitting down he motioned for James to start.

"We messed up" James said without warning "the person we used to take our fall is someone who would never betray Silver. We just didn't know who it was." seeing Ash's questioning look he continued "we told him a woman names Alexis Hanzo was the mole and leak in his department."

"His mother?" Delia said frowning "why would you tell him it was her?"

"We didn't know it was his mother until a few days later when we typed in her name in the database and realised who she was" Jessie said looking nervous.

"Oh dear" Ash said, "so what are you going to do?"

"We're being followed" James said sombrely "I don't think they know we've spotted the tail on us but when Andrew is seen in a place it usually means he's there to kill someone. And given our task was to find Domino who's hunting Giovanni, someone we still haven't found it's only a matter of time before we're in the ground."

"Wait" Delia said leaning forward "Domino is hunting my brother?"

"It's likely she's already found him" Jessie said nodding "but we've not had any contact from her since Silvers mother was kidnapped. She's completely gone off the grid. Not even the boss can track her."

"Wait there" Delia said standing up and going inside.

"So, what are you guys going to do about Andrew?" Ash asked.

"We're still spit balling ideas at the moment" Jessie said "so far we've not come up with anything concrete. But if you have any ideas then let us know."

Looking around he leant in and replied "if you can survive the next few weeks get in touch with me at my house three days after the tournament is over. Make sure he follows you."

Confused they nodded at Ash wondering what he was planning on doing. The patio door opening again pulled them all from their quiet thoughts.

"Reluctantly I've just spoken with Giovanni." Delia said sitting down "he knows and has 'sorted' it. I suspect your friend Domino will never trouble anyone again."

"She's certainly no friend of ours" Jessie said shuddering, an action that was mirrored by James "I've never met anyone as sadistic as she is and if she's gone, I'll sleep easier at night knowing."

"Gio would not lie to me, not after what he's done to us." Delia said, "I hope you manage to sort out your own issue."

"We have a few ideas" Jessie said, "but if we don't see you again just know it was our pleasure knowing you."

"Likewise," Ash said standing up and showing them to the door.

Walking back into the kitchen Delia looked at him and grimaced "I take it you're going to get involved again?"

"No" Ash said surprising her "not this time. I know they were hoping I would, but I've done enough to aid them. I'll feel bad for them should I find out they've died but I won't sort out their issues for them. They chose this life mum. Sometimes our choices catch up with us eventually. We know this better than anyone."

Surprised at his statement Delia stood up and started preparing tea while Ash helped. It was something that had become automatic over the years, learning to not get in the way was an artform. And as they had dinner, they each reflected on the day.

"Is Auntie Laura mad at me?" Ash asked suddenly.

"A bit" Delia answered "but she's also incredibly grateful for what you said. She was reaching breaking point and the dismissal of her, Blue and Sam at the league could have been the last straw for her. He's her son, and she'll always love him, but everyone knows he's an arse."

"Well hopefully my words eat at him, and he realises how lucky he is having all his family around him" Ash said washing his plate "he's always been a horrible person to me, and I could never understand why. I still don't know why to be honest."

"It all stems from when you were four and you told him you didn't want to play with him because he wouldn't stop talking" Delia said chuckling "he's been that way with you ever since."

Laughing Ash put his plate away and wandered up to his room. Lying on the bed he wondered what the day would bring tomorrow.

Chapter 39: Chapter 39

Chapter Text

Chapter 39- How do I know I'm the real me?

The next few days were quiet ones for Ash. He knew he was as prepared as could be for the tournament and apart from the light training his Pokémon did their own thing within the confines of the chalet. He had another two days before the draw was done for the next round and potentially six to eight days before he was due to battle again and he was getting quite bored. Deciding to go for a wander he made his way to the plaza outside the stadiums surrounding the main one. Looking up at the building he vowed he'd make it there for the final.

It was a strange feeling he thought knowing he'd come so far and that he still had a week and a half to go before his goals for the year had been achieved. Wondering what to do he wandered aimlessly for an hour until he came to a theatre. Weirdly it had never been something Ash had been interested in but apparently today there was a Q & A session at 5pm with the Elite Four on their thoughts of the tournament. Walking in he bought a ticket, a drink for him and Pikachu and entered a big auditorium where he sat down somewhere near the middle and waited for it to fill up. Soon enough it began to get full, and it wasn't long before the Elite Four and Charles Goodshow walked onto the stage to thunderous applause.

Sitting down they waited for the host to begin talking.

"Hello everyone. Can you all hear me? Fabulous. Now today we've got a real treat for you all. It's not often that we get to see all the Elite Four together like this. And it's even rarer to be able to ask the president himself questions. So, without further ado, Mr Goodshow if you would?"

"Thank you" he said standing up "as Janet said it's unusual for me to be out of my office, there's so much work to do on a daily basis that I rarely get the chance to meet people. However today is a special day. I'm here today to announce a few new things the league has been working on over the last year and to answer some questions on the future of the league itself."

"Interesting" Ash commented to Pikachu as Goodshow continued talking about the various initiatives that had been successful over the past year. "it's amazing what you miss when you're focused on travelling and getting badges for the league. I wonder if they do this every year."

"They do" a voice whispered from behind him. Looking back Ash didn't know who it was but listened anyway "every year they announce what they've been doing to try and improve the league and the experience for all trainers and fans. The Elite Four have been a lot more visible and accessible this year which is strange."

Nodding Ash thanked the man and focused on the stage. During their talk they'd missed the last bit of whatever Goodshow was talking about.

"This year" he said "I'm sure you've all seen the Elite Four be more visible to the region at large. There are numerous reasons for this but the main one is so that you, the people can get to talk to them and give them your opinion on things. Whether that be gym battles, advice on training, your experience in Pokémon Centres etc. and over this year I've received several reports from league operatives as to what I can do to help improve the experience for everyone. Pokémon battles aren't the be all and end all of life, yes, I know it's strange for me to say that but nevertheless it's true.

When the league ends there's going to be wholesale changes made to the gym experience. I will give a statement as to what a week after the tournament ends along with everything else that's been decided. I'm very excited as to what's coming for the future. But, because of all of you and your feedback I'm certain the changes will be positive ones. Thank you"

As Charles sat back down the audience applauded politely but the muttering was very loud.

"Very intriguing" Janet said, "So Miss Lorelei, shall we start with you?"

"Certainly" Lorelei said standing up and walking to the microphone. Placing her notes on the podium she began.

A few hours later Lance was just wrapping up his part of the things he'd been doing that year and sat back down.

"Thank you, Lance for the information you have given us all today." Janet said pulling out the final few cards with her notes on them. "I know we've been here a few hours now but we're about ready to wrap up. Are there any more questions from the audience? Yes, you young lady in the third row."

"What is the Elite Fours opinion on how the tournament has gone and do you all have a favourite match you've seen and someone in mind who will win it all?"

"Interesting question" Janet said happily "We'll start with Lorelei."

"It's been very interesting." Lorelei said "and there's been many fascinating matches. If I had to pick one, it would have to be Jeanette vs Ash. Mainly because of Ash's sporting nature, knowing he had the advantage and that Jeanette deserved to be here and didn't want to humiliate her. And yes, I do have someone in mind who I think will win but it would be unfair of me to put pressure on them though so for now it will stay up here" she finished tapping her head. Ash was very surprised by her answer. While it was a good match Ash had seen several others that had caught his eye.

"The standard has been OK so far" Bruno said "but the last 16 is where trainers true power finally is allowed to shine through, so I expect great things from now on. I don't have a favourite match sadly, there's been a few that have been good but as I said the standard hasn't really impressed me that much. As for a winner, I do have someone in mind but it's not something I'm willing to share just yet though. If they make the top 4, I'll let you know who I think it will be." Again, Ash was surprised at the brutal honesty of Bruno, it's something Ash appreciated though as he didn't think his opponents had been particularly challenging thus far.

"The standard has been piss poor" Agatha said cackling "but the wheat has been cut from the chaff and now we will get to see who's mettle is the best. For me there hasn't been a standout match so far because of the standard. As for the winner, yes. Ash Ketchum will win it. He's not been challenged once yet and has shown he's got the talent to make it deeper into this tournament." Ash was really surprised by her assessment. He still didn't hold a lot of love for the old woman, but she certainly had style.

"I wouldn't go that far" Lance said smiling and shaking his head at Agatha "the matches have been good, and the trainers involved have given their all which is something that needs applauding. Ash vs Jeanette was an eye opener for me. I've never seen a trainer willingly give up an advantage in the League tournament before just so their opponent can walk away with their head held high and not feel humiliated. It speaks to Ash's character. As for a winner, for me it's between two people. Ash Ketchum and John Dickson have yet to lose a Pokémon, or a match and Johns Dragonair is no joke. Should they meet up before the final the winner of those two would be heavy favourites."

"Well, there you have it ladies and gentlemen" Janet said happily "Can we give the Elite Four a round of applause please?"

Ash gently clapped as he tried to process what had just happened. He knew he was good, but his Pokémon deserved the praise just as much as he did. "Did you hear that Pi" he said "we're not allowed to lose now" making his way down the steps he left the building to find it starting to get dark so he bought himself some food and ate it on the way back to his chalet pondering on the talk. Walking in he greeted his mum and sat down on the couch and turned on the TV. Delia and Joanne joined him.

"I'm so proud of you Ash" Delia said suddenly.

"What brought that on?" Ash wondered confused.

"Well, the Elite Four have you as their favourite to win the tournament" Delia said smiling.

"How did you know that?" Ash asked still confused.

"Their annual review was on the TV, and they mentioned you" Joanne said looking at him "didn't you know?"

"Oh" Ash said "Well yeah, I knew they said it as I was at the talk. I didn't know it was live though as I didn't see any cameras there. It surprised me just as much though. I mean, I know we've not struggled yet but that's to be expected given the work we've put in. And the round of 32 is designed to get rid of those who scraped through their groups anyway so it wasn't a huge deal not losing a battle."

"What do you mean?" Joanne asked confused.

"The group stages are a great thing" Ash said "but they're also a double-edged sword. The winners of the group don't have to win all three of their matches to advance. For me it should go straight to the top 16 from the groups but I suppose there's more money to be made by having an extra round. Anyway, back to the point. The runners up of the group nearly always lose at least one match. Now that could be down to a number of factors as to why. The main one is usually that the group winner was simply better. From time to time though the runner up could have gotten unlucky in their match so, because of that the round of 32 was introduced to give them another chance, this time in a straight knockout situation. What you should see is the 16 winners of the group stages win their matches and settle that debate.

Sometimes though you don't, and Gary Oak is a prime example. He should have won but got cocky and underestimated his opponent who has been here before and knows what the pressure can do to you. She took him seriously and beat him through strategy. I'd put money on her going out in this round though as she wasn't great. But now it's serious. The 16 that are left are here on pure merit and deserve to be here so now there's no hiding place. They either win an advance or they lose and go home. It's brutal but the round of 32 is efficient in weeding those people out."

"Oh wow" Joanne said taking it all in.

"Yup" Ash said "also in this round a new factor comes into play. This is where the tournament gets really interesting as for the first time everyone can see what Pokémon could be used in a match against them as the trainer ID Pokémon slots are visible for everyone. There are no surprises anymore and you can come up with a strategy based on who you think your opponent will use. Now it's all about trying to out-think and outwit your opponent into sending out the wrong Pokémon and trying to have as balanced a team as possible to counter any surprises."

"But you only have 6 Pokémon" Delia said, "wouldn't that make countering you easier?"

"Ordinarily yes" Ash said smirking "however I don't just have six registered for use. I have nine."

"But you only have six on you" Joanne said looking very confused.

"Every Pokémon I've caught can theoretically be registered for potential use." Ash said openly smiling "I may only have six, but I've caught more that are registered to my ID. So, in addition to my six I registered three more that I've caught. Nowhere does it say I have to use those Pokémon or even have them anymore."

"Ash" Delia said giving him a look "who else did you register?"

"Well, Sylveon is my seventh" Ash said "as for my Eighth and Ninth I may have registered Regice and Regirock" he finished full on laughing.

"Didn't you release them?" Delia asked.

"No" Ash said "I never got the chance. As soon as I let them out, they dug away. Their Pokéballs are still in my bag and are 'active' even if I'll never use a Legendary. When the tournament is over, I'll visit Mew and actually release them but at least this way they can't be caught and will always be able to protect the tree."

"I'm sure I'm missing something here" Joanne said.

"It's not something we can talk about." Ash said "sorry. But needless to say, I caught two Legendaries, that I registered for the league. That should give people something to think about."

Shaking her head Delia walked into the kitchen muttering under her breath about definitely being Red's son.

The day after Ash received a phone call from Mr Suzuki saying his outfit was ready.

"Oh good" Ash said trying not to be sarcastic. "When will it be here because I need to go to the draw for the next round at 4."

"Oh, it'll be around teatime" he replied "we're in the middle of something big here at the minute and they're all needed on site. I'll have it dropped off via courier."

"No problem" Ash said "I should be home for 6. Speak to you later."

"By Ash" Mr Suzuki said before hanging up.

The rest of the day Ash spent relaxing. There was no point in worrying who he would be up against as it was pure luck. That and he didn't know how the draw was going to be made. When the clock chimed 3 Ash stood up and left to make his way to the main reception building of the league. Walking in he followed the signs for trainers and made his way into the conference room. It seemed the draw would be the same as last time Ash thought as he observed the bowls and balls on the table. Sitting down he observed his fellow competitors. Ash knew from watching their previous matches that some would be tough while others wouldn't be.

At 3:55 Charles Goodshow walked in from a side door and sat down waiting for the clock to strike 4. When it did, he stood up and made his way to the podium.

"Hello all. As you can see the draw is about to take place for the final 16. All of you are here on merit but inevitably there must be those among you that either go home or go on. This time the draw will be slightly different. Last time the group winners chose their opponent but this time Lance will do the draw. The first two names he picks out will face each other at 10am tomorrow, the following two at 1pm and the following two at 4pm. This will continue until there are no names left. Now I'm aware that there are 16 names to be drawn which is why the final four names will face each other at 12pm and 3pm respectively in four days' time. Is everyone with me so far? Good. Lance if you would?"

Nodding Lance stepped forward and began to draw names out of the bowls.

"John Dickson vs Kathy Whiting at 10 am"

"Nia Morgan vs Pete Pebbleman at 1pm" Ash looked around amazed that the runner up from his group had made it through. He really should be more observant.

"Ash Ketchum vs Ritchie Hiroshi 4pm" Good Ash thought. He had seen Richies profile and was quite impressed with what he saw. Richie was a varied specialist like himself only his Pokémon hadn't fully evolved. This had further impressed Ash, to make it to the last 16 with only one fully evolved Pokémon was amazing.

Ash realised he had tuned out from Lance who was just lifting the last two balls out of the bowl. "Melissa Farrow vs Archie Andrews 3pm"

Lance nodded at Charles who stepped forwards "well there we have it folks. 8 fantastic matches to be had. I wish you all the best."

Sighing Charles waited for the cameras to switch off before asking "Does anyone have any queries?"

"Yes" John said standing up "what are the rules on using Legendary Pokémon?"

Immediately muttering went around the other trainers apart from Ash who had a wry smile on his face. He owed Pikachu a bowl of Calamari it seemed. He should have known Pikachu would be right about John.

"They're Pokémon like any other" Charles said looking at Lance unsurely "I don't think there is a rule against using them. Why?"

"I wish to lodge a complaint." John said shocking everyone except Ash who started chuckling. "Ash Ketchum has two on his roster and it gives him an unfair advantage against those who got here fairly."

"Don't talk shit" Ash said standing up and shaking his head "I haven't used them once yet. I earned my eight badges fairly. It's not my fault you don't have any."

"It gives you a clear advantage in any battle knowing we have to come up with something that could wipe out our teams" John said furiously.

"Then be a better trainer" Ash responded smirking "failing that, go home."

"It is not fair" John said turning to Charles.

Charles pulled Lance away from the podium to have a chat while John smirked at Ash who just smiled back further irritating him.

"Ash" Lance said, "in the interest of fairness would you limit each battle to having just one of them in your party?"

"I'd consider it" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "you'd have to make it worth my while though."

"What do you want in return?" Lance asked warily.

"Well so far, I've not used them and still swept aside my competition so I know I can win without them. John however is bitching because he knows he'd struggle to beat just one of my Pokémon. So, if I limit my use of one Legendary per battle, he cannot use Dragonair again in this league" smirking at John who howled in outrage at the suggestion.

"That's not fair!" he cried "you know you can't beat me if I use Dragonair. That's why you're doing this!"

"Those are my terms" Ash said looking at Lance "if they're not acceptable then my two Legendaries will remain available for use however I want."

"Ash" Lance said, "be reasonable."

"I am" Ash said "There is no rule about Legendaries being banned in tournaments, though I'm sure there will be after this because of that whinging prick. He wants to limit what Pokémon I can use so I'm doing the same to him. Take it or leave it."

"I will leave it" John said angrily barging past Ash and slamming the door behind him leaving Ash chuckling. Turning to the rest of the trainers he said "I wish you all luck." He followed out of the door into the lobby where he waited for his next opponent. As they all walked past him they all gave him concerned glances. Ash knew what they were thinking, their chances of winning the league had just evaporated. Seeing a shell-shocked Richie come out last with Lance and Charles giving him a pep-talk he walked over to them where they eyed him warily.

"I want to assure you of something, but this stays between us four" Ash said "I have no intention of using my Legendaries. I put them in the roster because of that wanker. He's arrogant and needs humbling and has been nothing but rude since I first met him. I'm arrogant but that's because I know I've trained to be as good as I am. He's just a prick. So, have a good rest Richie and I will see you on the battlefield tomorrow."

Turning around Ash left the building and headed to the restaurant where Ash and Pikachu had a great evening eating lots of tasty food. Heading back home he realised he should have gone straight there to take in his delivery. Walking in he noticed it hung up on the door. Taking it into his room he opened it up and was very happy. It was exactly what he wanted. Ash was far from flamboyant, and a simple outfit would do him. Taking it out of the zipper bag he nodded in approval before trying it on. This was what he envisioned to start with. His normal outfit with patches on the arms denoting Silph, his name and number on his back in simple black. His pants had the number 14 on them with Silph stitched underneath it too. Impressed Ash nodded before taking it off and hanging up.

The next day Ash made his way to the stadium to watch all the matches. He wasn't surprised to see John win though he had to use a few of his other Pokémon before he called out his Dragonair to sweep his opponent. While the announcer was singing his praises Ash observed his Pokémon and theorised on strategies to beat them should he face him. Electabuzz and Tauros should be simple enough to overcome. It was very likely that they would meet at some point, Ash just hoped it would be in the final to humble the arrogant prick.

The next battle amazed Ash. Not because it was a fantastic battle, but he found himself entranced by the lady who won. Her name was Nia. She looked to be around 16 and was around 5'8, jet black hair with a pink streak, beautiful brown eyes and had a lip ring and a nose ring. Wearing a band t-shirt that showed off many tattoos on her arms of Pokémon, a vintage tartan skirt and what looked like Dr Martin type shoes. She only used 3 Pokémon but the way she commanded them in battle left Ash entranced. The pure joy she had on her face was something Ash could relate to. Pikachu had noticed Ash's glazed expression and looked where he was looking and smirked. It seemed Ash had a crush.

"She's very pretty" Pikachu commented idly.

"She certainly is" Ash said before he realised what he uttered. Gruffly he glared at Pikachu before saying "she is very pretty but it's the look on her face when she commands her Pokémon. She clearly loves battling. It's amazing."

"Ok lover Boy" Pikachu said giggling "it's time we made our way downstairs now. We're up next against Richie. Have you decided who to use?"

"Yeah" Ash said nodding "it shouldn't be hard to win. He's done well to get here with unevolved Pokémon though."

In the tunnel Ash shook himself loose and waited to be called.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we now have the final battle for today to decide the third competitor to join John and Nia in the last 8. This one is shaping up to be a cracker as we have two people who are here for the first time and have both made it to the final 16. Both of them won their respective groups winning every battle. In the last round Ash beat Jeanette and Richie beat Tom to set up this fantastic bout. In the red corner we have Richie Hiroshi who got here using just four Pokémon. And in the blue corner we have Ash Ketchum who also got here using just four Pokémon."

Taking his cue Ash walked out to the deafening roar of the crowd. Ignoring them he made his way to the centre of the field and shook Richie's hand before making his way to the trainer's box. When they both were in place they turned to the referee.

"Today's battle will take place on the grass field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 4 on 4 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side goes through. Standard move rules apply. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Good luck to you both. When I announce both of you will release your first Pokémon. Are you both ready? Then trainers release your first Pokémon"

Up in the stands Delia was sat with Sam, Laura and Blue.

"Wow, he could be your Ash's twin" Laura said chuckling "all he needs is blue eyes."

"He does look like Ash doesn't he" Delia said smiling "he even has a Pikachu on his shoulder like Ash. Do you think they realise it?"

"No" Laura said smiling "it's food for thought though, isn't it? What's that Pokémon that Ash is using? I've never seen one before."

"It's called Shelgon" Sam said answering the question. "it's the second stage to a Pseudo-Legendary called Salamence. Kind of like Dragonair is to Dragonite. He received it from Lance a few months ago as a Bagon, its first stage."

"It's funny looking isn't it" Laura said, "why isn't Ash having it move around though?"

"Its biggest plus is its defence" Blue said "It's virtually immobile even though it has legs so it's more of a counter-attacker. They can run, just not very well. They're no joke though as they pack a punch. Lance and Drake, the Dragon masters have a Salamence and they're ferocious in battle. Drake often starts his challenges with Shelgon so I know how good they can be."

"Oh, that must have hurt" Delia said taking a picture of the Butterfree Richie was using as it was sent flying backwards from a Flamethrower.

"Happy!" Richie called out in anguish "are you ok?"

Butterfree righted itself but it was clearly hurt from the power behind the Flamethrower. Nodding to its trainer it flew back onto the field and faced its opponent who still hadn't moved from its starting position. Ash had only used three moves so far against it, but it had rendered it useless.

"Ok Shelgon" Ash shouted, "Move towards it."

Nodding Shelgon started loping forwards. Shelgon were normally awkward moving, but it was clear it had been trained to overcome this as it galloped rather than jumped. Warily Richie waited for another command.

"Dragonbreath" Ash shouted as it launched the attack while running towards Happy.

"Dodge and use Stun Spore" Richie shouted. This was the first time he had been able to counter effectively as Shelgon had just either dodged or Protected against Happy's attacks.

"Stop and use Flamethrower" Ash shouted seeing they were well within range of Happy who was clipped by the attack and had to abandon its attack to get out of range. "Keep spamming Flamethrower. We can't do anything until it's in range again. All we can do is hope to tire it out."

Shelgon kept up the attacks as Happy frantically dodged. "Shelgon just stop" Ash said shaking his head and holding up her Pokéball "you're just going to wear yourself out at this rate. I know you're not going to be happy about this but I'm going to have to recall you and send out Charizard. Once it's beaten though I'll send you back out."

"No!" she shouted angry "I will not be made a fool of. I will beat it."

"Shelgon" Ash said patiently "you can't reach it."

"The hell I can't" Shelgon said glaring at the Butterfree who was taking this time to rest up a little and saw it shake its head at her.

Up In the stands Delia chuckled as she understood every word. She translated for the others who laughed. That was until a blinding white light had them all shielding eyes with their hands. Twenty seconds later a huge roar echoed around the arena as from the light a huge Flamethrower was sent on its way to Butterfree who frantically tried to fly up. This time though she was terrified to find that the sound of wings followed her. Turning round she screeched in fear as a fierce looking Salamence was bearing down on her. Realising she had nowhere to go she decided to do the bravest thing she had ever done. She charged at the Salamence and fired off a Psychic while doing so. Salamence though was unfazed and smashed into the Butterfree and sent her reeling down into the ground.

As she was preparing a Flamethrower to ensure Butterfee was beaten she heard Ash shout "Enough." Turning to him she glared at him. Ash though looked unimpressed by her attitude. "Butterfree is beaten. Do not attack it."

"It laughed at me" Salamence said furiously stomping over to Ash. "It taunted me, it deserves my retribution."

"I do not care if it laughed at you" Ash said looking very serious. By this point the crowd had gone silent "you beat her. There is no reason to add insult to injury. Take that look off your face Salamence, do not make me bring Charizard out."

"Bring him out" Salamence said smirking "I'm not afraid of him or of you."

"Hey" Pikachu said bouncing onto the railing and sparking furiously at her "Ash won't need Charizard, I'll put you in your place myself if you carry on. You're embarrassing us all with your attitude. Do not think that just because we're on National TV that I won't humble you in front of everyone."

"Peace Pikachu" Ash said looking down at Salamence and then up at Richie "Richie, do you plan on using another flying type?"

"No" Richie said looking confused by the one-sided conversation. It seemed Ash's Salamence was arguing with Ash and his Pikachu.

"Referee" Ash said looking at him "I am forfeiting my Salamence. I'm not willing to risk everyone's health, particularly Richies Pokémon's health until Salamence and I have a chat about her attitude."

Before she could say anything, Ash recalled her and shook his head at the Pokéball. He knew he was going to have trouble with her from the moment he met her. Hopefully they could sort things out before his next battle should he win this one.

"Salamence has been withdrawn" the referee said officiously "therefore this battle is a draw. Trainers, send out your next Pokémon.

"Venusaur" Ash said throwing the ball onto the field. Landing he pawed the ground and observed his opponent before looking up at the scoreboard. Confused he turned to Ash and said "Shelgon evolved? And she drew?"

"No" Ash said "Salamence won but her attitude has forced me to withdraw her. She was a danger to everyone with how she was being."

Nodding Venusaur turned to his opponent. A Charmeleon. Very interesting.

"Zippo, use Flamethrower" Richie shouted as his Pokémon charged forwards and let out a stream of fire at Venusaur.

"Sludge Bomb" Ash shouted as Venusaur responded by launching huge globs of poisonous bombs at his opponent. The sludge impacted the fire creating a minor explosion, but Charmeleon raced through surprising everyone including Ash.

"Slash followed by Flamethrower" Richie shouted as his Pokémon's claws lit up and started trying to hack away at Venusaur who struggled to move out of the way due to its huge bulk. He roared in pain as the fire type connected with the Flamethower but quickly batted Charmeleon away as he managed to turn and face the speedy fire type.

"Frenzy Plant" Ash shouted as Venusaur roared to the sky and brought his feet down onto the ground creating an earthquake. Before Charmeleon could react, massive vines came up from the ground and targeted him. Charmeleon did all it could to dance in and out of the thick thorny vines as it knew if it was caught by one, he would be in serious trouble. Eventually he made it out of the forest of thorns and back onto his trainer's side where he collapsed to one knee panting. Looking back at his opponent he found that he couldn't see a thing as there was just a forest of thick thorns.

"Ok" Richie said mumbling "what do we do now? Zippo, use Flamethrower and burn up all those thorns."

"Sludge Bomb" Ash shouted. Richie could only look on in awe as the thorns opened like huge doors and purple globs of poison came hurtling out smacking into his Pokémon sending him reeling back. It took a minute for Charmeleon to right itself, but it eventually managed it. Glaring at the thorns he let out an angry roar and a bright light engulfed the field. Richie was about to make a command when he stopped as Charmeleon evolved.

"Two evolutions in one match!" the announcer shouted over the crowd "this may have just turned the tide for Richie and his Charizard."

"Venusaur, are you ok to continue?" Ash shouted. Hearing a roar from within the vines Ash nodded. He was a little concerned as he hadn't let Venusaur train a lot against fire. And when he did it wasn't from a natural fire type so he didn't know how Venusaur would do here.

"Zippo are you ok" Richie asked concerned. Rather than responding Charizard just snorted and faced his opponent, or he would if there weren't thorns in the way. "Flamethrower, get rid of those vines."

Roaring Charizard took off into the air to try and get a better view. Looking around he could see where the forest was thickest and assumed that would be where the Venusaur was hiding. Taking in a deep breath he launched a huge stream of fire towards the centre.

"Venusaur" Ash shouted, "grab him with the thorns, bring him down."

Roaring in pain Venusaur focused on where the fire was coming from using the vines as a locator. He had trained for months using this attack and could direct them at will, almost like they were an extension of his body. From nowhere another thick vine came racing out from the ground and smacked into the back of Charizard who was too focused on burning the forest away. He had cleared half by this point but the attacks he took as a Charmeleon and the vine smashing him into the ground certainly didn't help.

"Quickly" Ash shouted, "make sure it is facing away from you and pin it to the ground with the thorns." Venusaur reacted very quickly and soon Charizard was pinned to the ground, unable to move roaring in pain as it was forced deeper into the ground. Charizard's one saving grace was that the thorns had come up from under the ground disturbing the soil, so the ground wasn't rock hard. It still certainly felt the pain though as it futilely tried to wriggle free. Soon though it was struggling to breath and its cries were getting weaker. Richie saw that it was inevitable and shouted, "I forfeit Zippo."

Immediately Venusaur retracted the thorns vanishing all the rest at the same time leaving a very tired looking Grass starter visible for the first time in ten minutes. Venusaur clearly hadn't come off unharmed though as its entire right side was scorched and it was panting slightly.

"Well done, Venusaur. For your first proper fight against a fully evolved fire type, you did well. Can you continue?" Ash shouted. Getting a nod, he focused himself on where Richie was who had just recalled Charizard and threw another ball onto the field.

"Let's Go Cruise" he shouted as from within the ball materialised a very strange looking Pokémon. Ash had heard of them but never seen one before.

"And Richie brings out his Larvitar" the announcer shouted "Venusaur took heavy damage from his previous opponent so this might be a quick battle."

"Cruise, use Earthquake" Richie shouted.

"Ride it out Venusaur" Ash shouted as the attack hit causing Venusaur to groan. Ash grew a bit worried as this was the first time his Pokémon had ever taken hits like this. Maybe the last 16 wouldn't be as easy as he first thought. Gradually though the attack eased and Venusaur glared at his opponent. He needed to win this one quick.

"Venusaur use Sunny Day" Ash shouted as he sent a ball of light up into the sky making every cloud disappear. Soon the heat radiated down on the field.

"He's going to use Solarbeam Cruise, Dig and use Crunch on it." Richie shouted. As his Pokémon acted Richie looked over at Ash and grew worried. Ash was smirking.

"Let it hit Venusaur" Ash said, "you know what to do."

Venusaur nodded and closed his eyes focusing on the ground underneath him. Being very close with nature Venusaur had found that he only had to ask the ground and it would do his bidding. And while this was just soil it still was once many living creatures whether they were animals or plants, so he found using his aura helped communicate on a microscopic level. There it was! Venusaur shifted slightly so that instead of coming out behind him Larvitar would come out to the side, which made it much easier to act. Bursting through the ground Larvitars Dig and Crunch hit causing serious damage to his already burned side but quicker than Richie could react Venusaur grabbed Larvitar in its vines and started to glow green and suck the energy out of a squealing Pokémon. Venusaur tightened its vines as it used the move he had long since mastered.

"And Venusaur takes the hit so that it could guarantee to hit with Giga Drain" the announcer shouted "what a masterful piece of thinking from Ash."

"Wow" Blue said watching from the stands. "Ash has an answer for everything."

"That's my Ashy" Delia said smiling "this battle has been harder than he thought it would be though."

"If Salamence had listened to Ash it may have been easier, but he was right to pull it from battle" Sam said, "a Pokémon like that could cause much more damage than simply helping Ash lose."

"What do you think will happen?" Laura asked as she saw Richie call back his beaten Larvitar.

"What you must understand Laura is that Dragon Pokémon are very different from every other type" Sam replied "They require an extremely firm hand. I'm not saying an abusive one, but they need discipline and if they think they're too good for their trainer they will continue to act out until they're either beaten into submission or released. Some though have been destroyed in the past because of their nature. It's not their fault but it is how it is and If Ash doesn't make it to the last four, he may have his Salamence taken from him because of how unruly Dragons can be."

"Why the last four?" Delia asked concerned.

"Competence" Blue said looking at her "I've argued getting to the knockout rounds shows you're competent to handle strong Pokémon, but I agree on this where Dragons are concerned. Even Lance would baulk at someone sending out a Hydreigon against him because of their violent nature."

They watched on in silence as Richie had sent in his Pikachu. It was evident though that it was nowhere near Ash's Pikachu in terms of power. It was very speedy though and had managed to get in a few attacks while avoiding Venusaur's.

"Venusaur" Ash shouted "it's too fast. I'm going to recall you, ok?" Venusaur took one last look at the Pikachu and nodded. The big picture was important here and the sooner they won the better. "Return" Ash said calling Venusaur back before whispering to Pikachu. "Pi, you're up, show them what true speed is."

Pikachu nodded before jumping down onto the field that was still tore up from the Frenzy Plant earlier.

"And it's the battle of the Pikachu's" the announcer shouted, "which speedy mouse will win this one?"

"Agility and Quick Attack" Richie shouted as his little mouse Pokémon began running around the field at high speed and started circling towards Pikachu. Pikachu though could track every movement having been trained to do so.

"Wait for it Pi" Ash said looking at his opponent getting closer. When it was fifteen feet away Ash shouted, "Iron Tail" and before Richie could react his Pikachu went flying backwards landing ten feet from his trainer. He like most of the people in the audience could only look on in awe at the speed and power of the attack. Watching his opponent get to its feet Pi set himself waiting for the next order.

"Sparky" Richie shouted "Thunderbolt."

"Take it" Ash said nonchalantly as Pikachu received the electricity and didn't flinch.

"How?" Richie asked seeing his signature attack fail to do anything.

"Pikachu's ability is Lightningrod" Ash said, "Volt Tackle."

PI sprang forward at a speed Richie's Pikachu couldn't comprehend and saw nothing but black as the attack hit knocking it out.

"Richie's Pikachu is unable to battle, Ash's Pikachu wins. Richie is all out of Pokémon which means Ash Ketchum goes through to the next round." The referee shouted. Almost as one the crowd swelled and started shouting and applauding. Ash though sighed a quiet breath of relief. That battle should not have been that hard.

Walking down the steps to the main field he met up with Richie and shook his hand. Pikachu jumped on his shoulder and observed the crowd as Ash talked to his opponent.

"That was a great battle. Your Pokémon are very well trained, and you should be proud of yourself" Ash said, "any time you want a rematch just ask."

"Thanks Ash" Richie said "and I'm sure at some point I'll make good on that offer. For now though I have some Pokémon that need consoling. Your Pikachu is something else, is it part legendary?"

Ash just laughed before releasing Richie's hand and thanking the referee before heading down the tunnel releasing a big puff of air. That was too close. Yet again something outside his control had nearly cost him dearly. Meeting up with Jo he went through the questions he was bound to be asked by the reporters and centred himself. Walking out to the media Ash chatted about his battle and his thoughts on his opponent.

"He's good, that battle was too close for me, hopefully in the next round it's not as problematic." Ash said getting ready to leave.

"You recalled your Pokémon. Why did you do that?" a reporter asked.

Knowing he'd have to talk about it eventually Ash focused on the reporter for a few seconds before deciding on how he'd spin this. "There are a few reasons. Dragon types are very different to normal Pokémon. If they don't have your respect as a trainer, then you have no chance in commanding them in battle and they need a firm hand at times to remind them about the responsibility they have in controlling their power. Salamence felt Richies Butterfree disrespected her by being able to fly away from her attacks as a Shelgon and forced herself to evolve. That's never a good thing. Not only that but Dragons are ruthless and vicious at times against an opponent they feel has slighted them. I recalled her for everyone's sake as a rampaging dragon isn't a good thing. I didn't want to let Pikachu loose on her either as the stadium and the people in it would be in jeopardy. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go and heal Venusaur, he was very badly burned in the battle." Nodding Ash motioned for Jo to follow him to the Leagues Nurse Joy.

Knowing he had a while to wait he sat down and mentally went through his battle, focusing on what he could improve on. He had no doubts that he would have won if Salamence could be trusted and not have to be recalled. Opening his eyes he was shocked to see his mum, Sam, Laura were sat opposite him with Blue standing behind them.

"Hi guys" Ash said, "are we all ok?"

"Yeah" Delia said happily "you're doing so well. The last 8 Ash. Another battle and you'll have bettered your father in his rookie year."

"Really?" Ash asked.

"Yeah" Blue said "we both faced each other in the last 16, your dad won that time and went on but lost his next match as his Charizard was too injured from our battle. You've done really well."

"Cheers guys" Ash said smiling before his smile faded as he remembered what he'd need to do. Noticing Sam asked sombrely "what are you going to do?"

"I'm not sure" Ash said "Charizard will be livid, and Pikachu is simmering over her attitude."

"You did the right thing Ash" Blue said "recalling her was the correct thing. Do you have somewhere to go to sort it out?"

"No" Ash said "I'm debating heading to Mt Silver for a few days to let it be sorted out then as the draw isn't for another four days. That should be enough time to sort her out."

"You could always use our training field" Blue said making Ash look at him questioningly "all the Elite Four have our own training places, but we all share the main field to practice against each other. We're the only challenge we have to be honest at the moment so it's in use quite a bit. I'm sure I could swing permission from Lance to use his facilities given it's a dragon you're going to be having words with."

"I'll take you up on that" Ash said standing up as he heard Nurse Joy call him over.

"Venusaur should be ok for your next match but just be careful. A lot of his right side was scorched and will need to be regrown. He should be able to do that himself though" Joy said handing over the Pokéball. Thanking the Nurse, he walked over to the party and asked Blue if he could use it now to get it over with.

"I'm going to take Sam back to the Chalet" Delia said as she helped the aged professor get up to his feet.

"I'll come with you" Laura said "good luck Ash. I'll see you later sweetheart" she said giving Blue a kiss before the three left.

"Shall we?" Blue said walking out of the stadiums reception with Ash and heading to the main building. Walking in he nodded to their receptionist before getting into an elevator and going down. taking out his own Pokégear he made a quick call to Lance who was in a room with the other Elites. Ending the conversation, he nodded to Ash.

"Lance and the others will be there. They're quite interested in seeing how you handle it." Ash was just silent as he contemplated what he was going to say. Hopefully by the end of the evening he would still have six Pokémon.

Chapter 40: Chapter 40

Chapter Text

Chapter 40- A rough few days

Blue led the way out of the elevator down a corridor that widened as it reached the end. Opening the door Blue and Ash walked out onto a huge battlefield and there in the middle of the field were the rest of the Elite Four watching as they approached.

"Hello young Ash" Agatha said as they reached them "interesting match you've just had."

"Indeed" Lance said "you did very well. Richie was a tough opponent."

"It wasn't a hard match" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "his Pokémon evolving made it harder than it should have been plus the issues with Salamence too…"

"Which is why we're here" Bruno said, "what do you plan to do?"

"I'm not sure" Ash said "first thing though is to explain to all my other Pokémon what happened and come up with some ideas. I already know what Pikachu and Charizard will want to happen, I'm looking for my others to come up with an alternative."

"Fair enough" Lance said "we'll be over there off to the side. We'll only intervene should we need to." Ash nodded his head and waited for them to walk away. Letting out a deep breath he called out his other five Pokémon.

"Firstly, Venusaur you did extremely well in taking out not only his Charizard but his Larvitar too. So well done." Ash said "Nurse Joy told me that you can't train for a few days to let you heal yourself. I'm very proud of you."

"Hang on" Blastoise said interrupting and looking around "why isn't Shelgon out?"

"Shelgon is the issue" Pikachu said replying looking angry "Venusaur shouldn't have been needed if she'd have kept her attitude in line."

"What's she done now?" Blastoise asked sighing. They had frequently over the past few months had to keep Shelgon in line. The number of times they'd had to put her in her place when she got a little uppity was borderline ridiculous. Her attitude to Ash was frequently intolerable so to find out she'd done something on the world stage disappointed Blastoise but didn't surprise him.

"She evolved" Ash said "and with it came another bout of her rudeness. She evolved because she claimed her opponent taunted her by being able to fly when she couldn't. And in doing so was vicious in taking down Richies Butterfree. Not only that but she was about to kill her downed opponent when we called her away. She argued that Butterfree had taunted her and that it 'deserved her retribution' so I recalled her and forfeited her. Hence why Venusaur was called out."

"What aren't you telling us?" Machamp asked in his slow deep cadence.

"She challenged his authority on the battlefield" Pikachu said, "and she challenged Charizard."

"She did what?" Charizard asked amused "really?"

"Yes" Pikachu said "that was until I threatened to kick her arse. I won't have it guys. I won't have Ash and our achievements being disrespected for all to see. We all know if we have an issue, we talk about it here like this. She didn't want to do that and thought she could get away with it because we were on TV."

"So" Ash said "it brings us to why we're here. We need to decide as a group on a decision on what to do about her. Thoughts?"

"That's an impressive array of Pokémon" Lance said watching the discussion happen.

"It is" Bruno said leaning forwards "I was unaware he had a Machamp. Last time we spoke he was after a fighting type, but I didn't know he had one."

"Did you not see its match?" Blue asked. "It was a Machoke a week or so ago though. And didn't you tell us you saw him use a Machoke against Giovanni?"

"Oh yeah" Bruno said shaking his head "He did, this is the first match I've been able to watch since getting back from the first round of the fighting type nationals though so my head is up my arse. It looks quite strong. I wonder how my own Machamp will fare against it."

"You'll win" Lorelei said patting hi arm affectionately "experience will win it for you but don't be surprised if he adapts quickly. I'm told Ash spars with him every day."

"I wonder what he's going to do with Salamence" Lance pondered aloud "they're not easy to handle at the best of times."

"How did you manage to tame yours?" Lorelei asked.

"Tame isn't the right word" Lance said laughing "more like we came to a mutual agreement. As long as I give him frequently strong opponents to battle, he stays. Should that change he'll likely leave for the Bagon grounds."

"Even despite knowing who you are?" Blue asked surprised.

"Oh yes" Lance said nodding his head "Salamence and Hydreigon are very different to other dragons. While they respect power they're still very fickle Pokémon to have on your team. They are proud to a fault and prone to bouts of anger. He's the fourth strongest on my team at the minute and resents it which is why he stays. I have a feeling that when he reaches second and displaces Dragonair and Charizard he'll leave. He has no chance against Dragonite and knows it."

"So why did you give one to Ash?" Bruno asked.

"A few reasons." Lance said, "he had just given up a rather powerful Pokémon in Aerodactyl which could have helped his team win many matches, however he told me 'What's the point in having all that power if it's uncontrollable' which for a rookie that has aspirations of being a champion is remarkable. Secondly while he's written many essays on Dragon Pokémon, it doesn't give you the necessary experience that handling one on a daily basis will. I figured I'd give him some hands-on experience and start with a small one. And lastly given his connection with Pokémon I thought he would be able to control their nature better."

"All valid points" Agatha said as Ash released his Salamence "oh here we go". Blue called out his Blastoise and Lance his Dragonite and his own Salamence and they quickly explained what was happening. Dragonite immediately understood due to his interactions with Lance's Salamence who looked intrigued at the upcoming confrontation, Blastoise however looked unconcerned, that was until he saw Ash's Pokémon all out of their Pokéballs.

"Yup" Blue said noticing the narrowing of his starter's eyes "in the next year or two these Pokémon will be challenging us all for our spots or title. I'm serious Blastoise, do not underestimate Ash or his Pokémon. That Pikachu has enough power to knock out Golem in one hit with its electricity. It's no joke."

Dragonite looked at his own trainer who nodded before turning to the field watching the confrontation. They were too far away at the minute to hear but it was evident the Salamence and Ash were arguing. They immediately became concerned when the Salamence used a Hydro Pump on Ash, but it was quickly intercepted by Ash's Blastoise who used its own to counter. From nowhere the heat rapidly rose and became almost unbearable, even from this distance as the Charizard bathed itself in flames and smashed into the Salamence before picking her up and slamming her into the ground and then standing on her neck. Immediately Blue and Lance began to run to Ash who saw them coming and held up his hand to halt them. Bruno, Lorelei and Agatha arrived at a more sedate pace as it seemed Ash had the situation in hand. As they reached him, they could hear Charizard growling at the downed Salamence who was trying to bite her opponent but couldn't move. Shaking his head Ash walked forwards and said a few words that they couldn't hear as Charizard moved away from his downed opponent.

Righting herself Salamence roared in Ash's face but quickly took a step back as Pikachu shot forwards and started shouting back. Salamence had become quite wary of her opponents, she had been so easily beaten by Charizard and at the minute she wouldn't stand a chance. When Pikachu started shouting, she knew she wouldn't stand a chance. When she had first joined Ash's party, she had been intrigued at how strong his Pokémon were after just under a year. And when she had started the training, she found it very worthwhile. She knew she had the arrogance of a Dragon, but that was to be expected right? Her biggest dream was to be able to fly and she remembered the conversations with Ash about what her other dreams would be. Honestly, other than being able to fly she didn't have any and when she evolved into Shelgon that mindset had become fixed. She knew that as the weakest that she wouldn't be able to challenge anyone for their position in Ash's top five and would have to settle for number six, she knew that with training though she could easily reach three. She doubted she'd reach the top two spots at the moment as Pikachu and Charizard seemed to trade those spots every few weeks by battling each other for that spot.

So that's what she dedicated herself to doing. Her overall work ethic drove her to be the best however her Draconic mindset over rid her common sense. She wasn't as strong as she thought she was, but her own arrogance made any thoughts like that quickly disappear and Ash's blasé attitude to her power irritated her.

The battle with the Butterfree sent her over the edge. The one chance she had to prove to Ash that she was strong and for him to acknowledge it, and he threatened to recall her simply because she couldn't fly yet. Well, she wasn't having it and evolved and in doing so she easily beat her opponent. She knew the Butterfree was no match for her, and it wasn't worthy of even being on the same field as her, but Ash demanded mercy and she became furious. She was convinced that her new power had propelled herself to the top of Ash's powerhouses and he should accept that. Only he didn't. And he recalled her and seemingly won without her. So when she was next released, and she saw her teammates surrounding her she immediately became defensive. That quickly went away though when her mind overtook her rational thinking and demanded respect. Hearing Blastoise snort at that comment enraged her. Well, that was the final straw and she fired a Hydro Pump at Ash. It was quickly intercepted by Blastoise before she felt a world of pain as Charizard smashed into her and then pinned her to the ground. She furiously demanded to be let up, but Charizard wouldn't. She wouldn't admit it, but her own arrogance had led to her downfall again. Hearing Charizard threaten to tear her throat out scared her though. Hearing Ash say that she would accept him as her trainer or leave made her mad. She quickly shut up though when Pikachu jumped in front of Ash and threatened her.

"I'll leave" Salamence said after quieting down "I can see when I'm not wanted or respected."

"You are wanted" Ash said "but respect is earned in this family. Just because you've become a big bad dragon now does not mean that you automatically get our respect. We've all been through hell and back in the last year and I will not have our group be put through hell again because of your arrogance."

"You do not respect me" Salamence said haughtily "if you did, you'd acknowledge my new power. I am a dragon! And I demand respect!"

"I can see we're not going to get anywhere with you" Ash said sighing and recalling everyone but Pikachu and Salamence "I'll see that you find a good home." Just as he was about to recall her, he had to dodge as she tried to use a Flamethrower on him. Pikachu was about to jump forward when from the side of him a huge blue blur smashed into Salamence with incredible force sending her flying before she was again pinned to the ground. Confused Ash got to his feet only to find Lance's Salamence had been the one to attack her with a Dragon Rush.

"Let me tell you something little one" Salamence said menacingly to the terrified younger dragon "I've been training around our type longer than you've been alive and I've never seen arrogance and cowardice like it. We are DRAGON! We do not attack cowardly! Just because you are a dragon doesn't mean you are a dragon and as such, I find you wanting." Salamence looked like he had come to a decision and before anyone could react, he had sharpened his teeth with a glint and bit down on the back of her neck where she quickly wilted. "Until you prove you are worthy of the name dragon you will be on the bottom rung and only when our elder allows it will I take the mark off you. Is that understood? I SAID IS THAT UNDERSTOOD?"

Nodding frantically Lances Salamence took his foot off her and walked back to Ash where he muttered something only Ash could hear. Ash nodded and recalled his own Salamence. Seeing the disappointment had been returned he walked to Lance where he bowed and returned himself into his Pokéball.

"What just happened?" Lance asked confused. In all his time as a dragon trainer he had never seen anything like it.

"Salamence asked me to give her to you so you can send her to the Bagon Grounds where she will have to earn her name as a dragon." Ash said "He's going to take her tonight himself and if and only if she gets the Elders approval will your Salamence take the mark from her neck. He asked I retain her as my Pokémon until that time and he will check in on her progress every few months." Sighing Ash ran a hand through his hair "It's a sad thought to have to part with a friend like this. But I trust your Salamence's judgement on this."

"Very well" Lance said as he took the Pokéball from Ash "tonight I'll send you my notes on Salamence and their behaviour patterns. Salamence are wired differently. Maybe then you will gain some understanding and acceptance of what just happened. Believe me, it's nothing new. You're not the first to have to do this and you certainly won't be the last."

Nodding Ash shook his head and scratched Pikachu behind his ear. "I think I'll go home now and explain what happened to my team."

"Aren't you going to be one Pokémon short now though for the rest of the tournament?" Lorelei asked concerned.

Chuckling Ash shook his head "No, I registered nine Pokémon for the league. I'll be ok. Thank you for your concern though."

Nodding they all separated as Blue and Ash walked back to the elevator and left the building, saying goodbye Blue went back inside while Ash went to his chalet. Walking in he was surprised to find Sam and his mum there. Explaining what happened made Delia give him a hug and ask if he was ok.

"I will be" Ash said "I have a tournament to focus on at the minute. I can't let this distract me."

"Good man" Sam said, "life moves on inexorably."

"It's been a while since I've heard you spout anything poetic" Ash said laughing "are you feeling ok?"

That night after explaining what had happened to his team Ash talked to his mum about having Sylveon on his roster.

"I know she's not been in many battles with me lately, but I think she could help" Ash said as he stroked her head "she's strong and I trust her." Wrapping her ribbons around him she told him that's she'd help all she could. Ash went to bed that night feeling slightly happier.

The next few days flew by as Ash watched the rest of the battles and soon enough it was time for the draw for the last eight. Sitting down in the conference room Ash ignored the looks he was getting from the other competitors. There wasn't anyone here that Ash rated as challenging. It was just his luck though that he sat next to Nia, and he struggled to say hello back when she started talking to him. Pikachu was no help as he just sniggered in his ears at how eloquent Ash was when he spoke to a woman he found attractive.

"Hello all" Charles said "sadly we won't have any more of these wonderful gatherings as today we will be doing the draw for not just the last eight but the final four too. The battles will take place starting tomorrow at 10am and we will have two battles each day over the next two days. We won't be giving out times as the battles could go on for a while. We will however keep going until there are four winners. The semi-finals will take place between the winners of the first two sets of battles and the second set. So, winner one will face winner two and winner three will face winner four. The semi-finals will take place on Wednesday at 10 am and the final on Sunday at 3pm with the Third-place playoff on Saturday, also at 3pm. So, without further ado, Lance if you would?"

Nodding Lance stood up from his seat and made his way to the table where he drew out the names from the bowls. "The draw for the final eight is as follows.

Nia vs Audrey

Assunta vs Ash

John vs Mike

Ashley vs Geoffry

Which means the winner of Nia vs Audrey will face either Assunta or Ash and the winner of John vs Mike will face the winner of Ashley and Geoffry. I wish you all the luck in the world."

"And that's it folks. The draw for the next round and semi-finals has just taken place and they're shaping up to be crackers. Who will go on and who will go home? We will find out over the next few days."

Standing up Ash made to walk out of the room when he was stopped by a voice which silenced all the rest given the last confrontation between the two.

"You seem to be getting very lucky Ketchum" John said walking over to him and facing him "it seems we won't meet up until the final itself."

"You seem to be labouring under the delusion I care about if I should face you" Ash said looking straight at him "If I were you, I'd worry about your next opponent because if you're not careful you could be going home."

"I have no worries about facing anyone in this tournament" John said snorting "good luck Ketchum, you're going to need it."

Snorting Ash stepped aside and let John go past him with a smile on his face. Ash couldn't wait to face that guy and beat him.

"What is it with you two?" Mike asked.

"He lost to me in a tournament about ten months ago because he didn't pay attention to how many moves he had his Pokémon use" Ash said "ever since then he's deemed me lucky despite Pikachu very nearly handing him his arse. He relies too much on the power of his Dragonair, which makes him easy to combat if you truly think about it. Good luck in your match. Assunta, I'll see you tomorrow. Nia, it was a pleasure talking to you. Good luck all." Walking out Ash pondered on what to do before deciding to pick his mum up some groceries and walking back to the chalet.

Tomorrow came about sooner than Ash thought and soon enough he was sitting in the stands waiting for Nia to have her battle. He suspected he'd face her in the last four as she was a very fierce battler.

"And Nia and Audreys Pokémon take each other out meaning it comes down to this ladies and gentlemen. After a fierce battle Nia is up by two Pokémon to one. Audrey is down to just her Rapidash. They have been in a battle before though so who will move on?"

"Rapidash use Flame Charge" Audrey shouted as her fiery horse snorted and charged towards Nias Vaporeon.

"Wait for it, wait for it NOW Hydro Pump" Nia shouted as her Vaporeon let out a huge geyser towards the horse who had no time to be able to react to the super effective move and was sent sprawling back to her side of the field.

"And Rapidash goes down! Can she get back up?" The horse struggled to get to her feet, but it was clear she was on her last legs. Standing tall she neighed at her opponent before slumping forwards and falling unconscious.

"Rapidash is unable to battle, Nia is the winner and will move on to the final four." The referee shouted over the noise the crowd made.

"Hmmm" Ash said standing up and making his way down to the changing rooms to wait for his call.

"She was good" Pikachu commented.

"She was" Ash agreed "but I've seen enough to know where to exploit her weaknesses. She'll have an additional Pokémon which could give us trouble, but I doubt it."

"We have to get through Assunta first" Pikachu said making Ash snort and raise an eyebrow at his starter "I'm just saying."

A knock on his door interrupted Ash and opening it he found a league official who told him to make his way to the tunnel. Nodding Ash gestured for Pikachu to follow. Jumping onto his shoulder Pikachu mentally went through what was due to come. Ash had told him he was going to be used today but Ash planned on rotating to give them all a chance before he settled on an order for the semis and final.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, we come to the final battle of today for a place in the final four. Who will join Nia who went through earlier after a spectacular battle with Audrey. In the red corner we have a trainer who has reached this stage twice already in the last four years. Aiming to progress to the semis it's the beautiful ASSUNTA!"

The crowd shook the stadium with their cheering making Ash wince. This wasn't even the main stadium he mused. That would be saved for the final and if this crowd of 10,000 made such a noise he couldn't imagine what noise 50,000 people would make.

"And in the blue corner, a rookie who has blitzed his way through all opposition. Other than a forfeit in the last round he has yet to lose a single Pokémon in this tournament. With every battle he has he creates history by being the youngest to reach each successive stage. I give you ASH KETCHUM"

Focusing Ash walked out to the raucous crowd and zeroed in on his opponent who had reached the centre. Shaking her hand, they both turned to face the referee.

"You two should know the score by now however I'm obligated to say it again. Today's battle will take place on the neutral field. The rules are as follows. It's a standard 4 on 4 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw neither side goes through. Standard move rules apply. When one side has two Pokémon knocked out, we will be changing the field to one at random using the machine. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Good luck to you both. When I announce it both of you will release your first Pokémon." Nodding Ash walked away to his side and climbed the stairs to his box. "Are you both ready? Then trainers release your first Pokémon"

Looking over at his opponent he whispered to Pikachu "You're up buddy."

Pikachu jumped down to the field below and waited to see who his opponent would be.

"Rhydon, spotlight" Assunta shouted twirling and releasing her huge Rhino. Ash just observed in silence. It looked tough but it didn't look as strong as Blaines Rhydon. This would be interesting.

"Rhydon use Earthquake" Assunta shouted.

"Ride it out Pi" Ash said calmly.

Pikachu just nodded and let the ground sway him from side to side as he rode out the attack. "How was it, Pi?" Ash asked as the ground settled down leaving Pikachu unharmed.

Pikachu gave Ash a thumbs up before charging forwards at the Rhydon who looked confused that his attack seemed to have done nothing.

"Use the ground you've disturbed and Rock Slide" Assunta shouted.

"Agility" Ash shouted as Pikachu drifted in about of the many rocks that were thrown at him getting ever closer to the Rhydon.

"Be careful Rhydon, brace for impact. We've seen this before by him" Assunta shouted as Rhydon stopped throwing the rocks and hunkered down.

"Electro Ball" Ash shouted.

"Take it. It wont affect you" Assunta shouted to her Rhydon who nodded. The crowd wondered why Ash would use such a move when it was well known that Electric moves were useless. The crowd though gasped as one when the Rhydon cried out in pain as the attack hit and brought it to its knees.

"How?" Assunta asked shocked "what just happened?"

"Thunderbolt" Ash shouted and the Rhydon again cried out in pain as thousands of volts was sent coursing through its body making it collapse and try to get its breath back.

"Rhydon return" Assunta shouted recalling her severely injured Pokémon and look over to Ash who calmly watched her. "What just happened?" she shouted to Ash. Ash just smiled and said nothing. Shaking her head out of its stupor she wondered what Pokémon to use. Two of her four were severely weak to electricity so she was left with just one. "Ivysaur, spotlight" she shouted sending out her grass starter.

"Thunderbolt" Ash shouted as Pikachu again sent a bolt of lightning towards its opponent.

"Ivysaur use your vines to funnel it into the ground." Assunta shouted. Amazingly it seemed to somewhat work. Ivysaur still felt the effects of the attack but most of it was channelled into the ground.

"Novel" Ash said, "get close Pi and keep up the attack then use Iron Tail". Pikachu sprang forward still sending the electricity at Ivysaur who was stuck between wanting to move and having to stay where it was to prevent being severely damaged.

"Ivysaur break off and use Razor Leaf" Assunta shouted as Ivysaur stopped funnelling the electricity and attempted to use her move. She found however that without the ground to act as a buffer she was in severe pain and couldn't move. Gritting her teeth, she took the impact from the Iron Tail and was sent skidding backwards. She wouldn't be winning this one. How a mouse had so much power she'd never know but Assunta was relying on her. Getting back to her feet she was finally able to use her move and sent a storm of leaves at Pikachu who dived and dodged between each one using Agility.

"And Ivysaurs Razor Leaf turned into a Leaf Storm, but Pikachu managed to dodge every single one. This little mouse has shown his speed to be unrivalled. What will Assunta do?" The announcer shouted.

"Keep up the storm Ivysaur" Assunta shouted. She needed to beat this Pikachu, or her team would be at a severe disadvantage "it can't dodge them all."

"Yeah, we can" Ash said laughing "let it tire itself out Pi."

The next few minutes had the crowd in awe at how agile Pikachu was as nothing Ivysaur sent his way got even close to hitting. Eventually Ivysaur had to stop attacking as it was exhausted. Assunta was out of ideas. They had one move remaining, but it was risky.

"Ivysaur, I know we've not perfected it yet, but we have no other choice. Frenzy Plant" Assunta shouted.

Drawing up her courage Ivysaur began to glow green. It seemed her exhaustion had put her into Overgrow and with great difficulty she stamped on the ground. Assunta was right, they hadn't managed to master this move as it required a fair bit of power to not only use it but control it too and she was exhausted. Overgrow though helped enormously and from underneath several thick thorny vines came racing out towards Pikachu.

"You know what to do Pi" Ash shouted. Sadly for Assunta Pikachu had trained with Venusaur for months using this move to help him control it better and knew how to get around it. The crowd was amazed when instead of dodging Pikachu started running and hopping along the searching vines heading towards Ivysaur who was becoming more desperate as he got closer to her. The field and the two Pokémon became impossible to see but soon enough Pikachu had managed to get within ten feet of her and leapt forward and electrocuted Ivysaur causing her to yell out in pain. The only indication the crowd had of Pikachu's success was Ivysaur yelling out in pain. The evidence was there to see though when all the vines retracted into the ground and Pikachu was seen standing next to a knocked out Ivysaur.

"And Pikachu manages to score another hit and knocks out Ivysaur. Assunta has three Pokémon left but one is heavily damaged."

"Return Ivysaur, you did your best. Rhydon you're back up" Assunta said releasing her rhino again who looked on the point of collapse. Evidently, he hadn't had that much time to rest and recover.

"Thunderbolt Pi" Ash said instantly catching Assunta by surprise. Rhydon didn't have chance to react and was struck by the electricity again causing it to yell out in pain and collapse onto its knees. After around ten seconds Pikachu stopped and waited to see if Rhydon would get up. Instead, it fell forwards knocked out.

"And in one move Ash knocks out her second Pokémon. Now the field will be changed so we will have a ten-minute recession. You do not want to miss this."

"We'll stay here Pi" Ash said as he saw Assunta walk off down the tunnel looking worried. Instead, Ash walked down his steps and made his way over to the side of the stadium and started talking to his mother and Sam about a discussion they had this morning. Delia seemed to understand that Ash didn't want to analyse the battle and went with it causing the people either side of her to look very confused. Soon though the field had been changed and it was time to begin again.

"Welcome back folks. As you can see the field has been changed to the water field. Will this benefit either side, only time will tell. Assunta is down two Pokémon while Ash still has all four remaining. Can she turn it around?"

Assunta made her way up the steps and into her box. She had seen on the screen in the changing rooms what went on during their break. To see Ash casually talking to someone in the crowd irritated her. At the moment she was in the best position to do something about his casualness, but she was powerless to do so. The change to the water field would normally have been the break she needed given who her last two Pokémon were but with Ash's Pikachu having such an advantage she suspected every advantage she had had just disappeared. She would not be backing down though. She had got here on merit; her Pokémon were strong, and she would prove it by beating Ash.

"Let's go Tentacruel" Assunta shouted as her squid came out of the ball to settle onto the water shouting its name. It quickly went under the water and came back up to get used to the water.

Ash stared for a few moments before looking at Pikachu who had leaped down to the field and then back at the Tentacruel. Sighing he looked at the ref and shouted "Ref, what are the rules here? Pikachu has proven to be powerful enough that his electricity can overcome a ground type. Pikachu knocked out a fifty-foot Tentacruel at Porta Vista, eight months ago and that was out of water. Do you realise the damage he would do to a Pokémon in water?"

"Unfortunately, Mr Ketchum there are no rules here" the ref said shrugging his shoulders "It's a simple battle with a knockout style. If the challenger has sent out a Pokémon, then they're duty bound to either forfeit said Pokémon or choose to carry on. As Miss Assunta has called out a Pokémon all legal issues are covered, and any damage done is on her. You could always not use an electric attack the way you did for your Charizard with his fire."

"No" Ash said shaking his head "I did that because his fire attacks would literally burn Jeanettes Pokémon and leave nothing but ashes. At least Assunta will have a Pokémon to bury here. Assunta, due to me already having four moves locked in I can't use a weaker electric move. I'm sorry."

"You're underestimating us Ketchum" she shouted angrily "we didn't get here by chance. Tentacruel Hydro Pump."

"Agility and Thunderbolt Pi" Ash said shaking his head "aim for the water."

Pi nodded knowing that he had very little choice here. He easily dodged the geyser sent his way and electrified the water. The screams from the Tentacruel would long live in the memory of Assunta as it was lit up. Ash called the move off after five seconds, but the damage was already done. Her Pokémon was on its side in the water charred, its breathing was very laboured. The whole crowd had gone silent due to the screams and tearily she raced down to the battlefield to the waters edge to her stricken Pokémon. Crying she whispered how sorry she was to her Pokémon who prodded her with its tentacle. Resting her head against it she suddenly felt a surge of power go through her as her Pokémon lit up blue. Wondering what was going on she looked up to find Ash placing his hands on Tentacruel with a determined look on his face and his whole-body glowing. Wondering what was going on she was about to ask him when she saw the charred bits on Tentacruel recede more and more until there was only a slight discolouration. Ash stopped and closed his eyes feeling very winded.

"What?" Assunta started to say looking very confused "what just happened?"

"Your Tentacruel will live" Ash said opening his eyes as the light faded from his eyes to turn their normal deep blue. "It won't be able to battle for a while though, but I'd get Nurse Joy to check him over. I couldn't heal everything, so he may have some internal injuries I couldn't heal. Better safe than sorry."

"Thank you" she breathed out before bursting into tears and hugging her Pokémon.

He whole stadium had gone quiet witnessing what it did. From the near death to the miraculous healing left every single one of them in awe. The referee who normally had to remain in his box decided to break protocol and made his way to the trainers.

"Ash, Assunta" he said leaning in and saying quietly so only they could hear him "I'm loathed to do this after what just happened, but we do have a battle to finish. Normally I'm not allowed to interact with either side for impartiality, but I cannot in good conscience not say anything to you. Assunta, by rights I could have you disqualified for negligence, but I won't do that as you're not that kind of trainer. I do have to ask though if your next Pokémon is also a water type?"

"It is" Assunta said turning to her Tentacruel who was trying to get up "and I know what you're going to say but there's no need to do so. I'm forfeiting the match."

"Are you sure?" Ash asked, "I could always withdraw Pikachu and use another Pokémon."

Shaking her head, she said "No, I wouldn't be able to concentrate and I'm three Pokémon down already. My last Pokémon wouldn't be able to take four down on its own."

"Very well" the referee said, "if you could both return to your boxes, I will announce the decision."

Before he could turn away Ash reached out and grabbed his arm "before you go, when I left on my journey, I was given Junior Professor status by Professor Oak. If you need your report corroborating to Mr Goodshow just let me know. I'm already going to have to write one up to Sam anyway to justify my use of Pikachu against Tentacruel, especially after what happened in Porta Vista, so I'll send it to Mr Goodshow too if you like?"

"That would be much appreciated" he said before walking off and returning to his box. Assunta recalled her Pokémon and walked back to her box while Ash did the same with Pikachu on his shoulders.

"Ladies and gentlemen" the referee "what I'm about to say hasn't happened at this tournament yet this year. Due to the negligence of the red trainer, I am hereby disqualifying her from the match." The crowd started to shout at him, so he carried on with his arms raised "this has been agreed upon by both competitors due to the fact the red trainers remaining Pokémon is also a water type and as such risks her Pokémon's health. The Pokémon's health will always come first at these tournaments and that will never be up for debate. The blue trainer offered to withdraw his Pikachu as a touch of good sportsmanship, but the red trainer declined. As such going through to the final four is Ash Ketchum. Thank you."

Ash and Assunta walked down to the field to a chorus of boos coming from the crowd. Ignoring them they both met up in the middle and shook hands.

"I'm sorry for the outcome" Ash said, "if Pikachu could have used a weaker electric move I'd have stuck to that but the four move rule had me cornered."

"I know" Assunta said shaking her head "it was my own fault. I knew we'd lose at half time but my own arrogance almost cost me my Tentacruels life."

"Here" Ash said handing her a card "this is my number and my address. If you ever want to train and build up your water Pokémon's tolerance don't hesitate to ask. I'll always be happy to help."

"Thanks Ash" she said as she turned away and walked down the tunnel. Ash however took a deep breath and looked over to the crowd to see his mother was still there next to Sam. Walking over to her he quickly scaled up the side of the arena and landed in front of her where he gave her a hug. There was still quite a lot of the crowd remaining and they soon realised that what happened must have affected Ash too given his demeanour in the interviews they'd seen was usually curt and to the point. Releasing her he nodded and jumped back down to the arena where he made his way across the field and down to the tunnel where he met Jo.

"I'm not giving an interview or answering any questions" Ash said before she could talk "I'm going straight home. I'll give a statement probably tomorrow after I've talked to Sam and Mr Goodshow about what happened and where we go from here."

Knowing she wouldn't be able to change his mind she nodded. "I'll go and see Karl then. We'll probably only get in late."

Ash nodded before walking back out to the field in the opposite direction of the reporters. There were still a few people left in the arena who wondered what Ash was doing. That was until Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder and he released his Charizard before flying off on it.

Getting back to the chalet Ash left a note for his mum before walking back outside and getting back on to Charizard before they flew off in a southerly direction. It was still early afternoon so when they landed outside Ash's house it was only early evening. Walking in Ash was amazed by the progress his mum and Venusaur had made. Walking out the back into the garden Ash stopped and looked on in amazement at what his mum and Venusaur had created. It was utterly beautiful. The path that led to the lake was exactly as he had envisioned down to the trellis arch above his head covered in little plants and buds. Walking down to the lake Ash sat down and looked out at it. Calling out his Pokémon they all looked around wondering where they were.

"Guys" Ash said making them focus on him "we made it to the last four. Something happened though which is why were here to rest up a bit. We'll be here for a few days yet. Blastoise, this is your lake, go have fun. Venusaur this place is absolutely beautiful; I look forward to you giving me a tour. The rest of you go do what you like. We'll talk later when I've had a chance to wrap my head around the match. I promise I'm ok, and I'll explain later."

Nodding they all went their separate ways except for Pikachu. Silently they looked out at the lake as the sun was setting. This was exactly what Ash wanted when he pictured his dream house. The peace, the tranquillity and just Pikachu for company. It was worth it.

Later on, Ash went on a mini tour of his new house and was stunned at how well his mum had chosen things for him. Machamp had settled in very well in 'his' new gym. Ash had just laughed at that statement but didn't contradict him as he wanted him to feel comfortable. Blastoise loved his lake. The builders had done a magnificent job of rerouting the river in and out of his property and done almost no damage to the surrounding environment. What damage had been done was superficial and would be covered up in a few months' time by new trees and flowers being planted. Ash had taken the tour with Venusaur and had nothing but admiration for his vision. He had chosen superbly with where he planted everything. There was still a section of the grounds that had open trenches that were eight feet deep where trees and flowers would be planted but they were only due to arrive as buds in a few weeks' time so Venusaur and Ash would be helping make sure the ground was suitable for them when the tournament was over.

His Pokémon had listened to Ash describe the battle with Assunta and agreed that he'd done nothing wrong. Assunta should take all the blame but it didn't stop Ash feeling slightly guilty though. That night he typed up his report for Sam and Charles and reiterated that the referee hadn't been given a choice in the matter and he wasn't at fault. Hopefully that would go a long way to making sure the referee wasn't sanctioned.

In the morning Ash was aware they were being watched from the trees again. Annoyed he was about to go and confront whoever it was before Machamp stopped him.

"Send a scout first. Could be Team Rocket." Machamp said staring at Ash. Nodding he asked Venusaur to pretend to be checking on the flowers near there to try and get a description. "Pi, try and circle around quietly to try and see who it is too. Do not engage, either of you. They're obviously watching for a reason so we could spring a trap another day."

Watching his team go out and do what he asked Ash pulled out his pokegear and searched for a name in particular. Saved under the letter 'J' he typed in 'house being watched, TR?' and sent it. A few minutes later he received a reply 'could be, description?' Ash would have to wait to reply to it. Twenty minutes had passed since he sent his team out when suddenly the presence disappeared. Releasing a breath, he waited for Pikachu and Venusaur to come back who did a few minutes later. Hearing their description, he typed into is Pokégear 'Brown hair, 5'9 Brown eyes, a scar on his right cheek. Has a Kadabra.' Clicking send he waited for a reply. Thanking his team, they had breakfast and waited for a reply. As they were getting ready to leave for Indigo Plateau Ash's Pokégear went off again 'Indigo Plaza Buffet, 7pm.' Nodding he told his team that soon they would have to capture the man as it seemed he was from Team Rocket. "First though we have someone to meet and then I'll find out who won the other quarter finals."

Climbing on Charizard he left his house and spent the journey back to Indigo Plateau thinking over the last few days. He knew he wasn't to blame, and he was thankful he had called off the attack when he did or Tentacruels injuries would have been too much to heal. As the Plateau came into view Ash steeled himself for the next week. He would need to be at his best to beat Nia and then whomever he'd face in the final. He really hoped it would be John so he could put to bed this stupid rivalry that John had with him. Landing at his chalet he walked in and greeted his mum with a hug and sat down to have dinner with her and talk about what happened.

Chapter 41: Chapter 41

Chapter Text

Chapter 41- Munchings and Crunchings

Silver was pacing around his office muttering under his breath. For the last few months, he'd constantly been on edge. His mother had gone missing, and he hadn't found a single lead on where she was. He was furious with the people that worked for him and he'd even made an example of two of the leaders from the teams he'd sent out but not even that had upped their game. She was still missing.

Domino going missing was a big blow to him too. In the last year his entire Executive level personnel had been gutted to the point he'd had to promote workers that weren't capable. He only had four left that were half decent and two of them were contracted to be killed, Domino was missing, and Andrew had gone off the grid to pursue them.

The last few months hadn't been too bad for him. He had recovered financially by selling off major assets to fund his projects and he was on the way to building things back up, but they would be a far cry from what he used to have. The Pokémon Land lawsuits had been pushed through and he'd managed to pay off a large sum of what he owed to the bereaved families for the destruction that had been caused. He was thankful that the police investigation had found evidence of tampering with the Dragonite which meant he wasn't as liable as he first believed he'd be. The malfunction of his robots had come directly from the Dragonite targeting the main control room. It would take a few years to be able to finance the reconstruction of it but as it was his main source of income for so many years that was the project that would go ahead first, only it would be smaller to start with and he'd have round the clock surveillance on every part of the island. The culprit was lucky they'd never been discovered because if he could get his hands on them, they would never be found again.

His mind went back to the papers he'd shredded about his mother. While he knew Jessie and James were lying the evidence was still quite compelling, which means someone must have done a bloody good job framing his mother. Were they the ones responsible and blamed her? No, he doubted it as very few people knew that Alexis Hanzo was his mother. Only those people close to his Grandad and mother knew their relationship and they were sworn to silence under threat of death.

His dad knew though which opened up the possibility that he'd been the one who talked and he was intelligent enough to be able to plant evidence framing her, but he doubted Giovanni would do that. He knew, despite the man saying otherwise that he was in love with his mother, just as he knew his mother reciprocated. But he also knew nothing would come of it because the business would always come first for his mother. Silver often felt sorry for his mother, especially after he'd taken over the business and she was demoted from her position because he could see how lonely she was. She was a fantastic socialite, and she was brilliant at getting business deals sorted but that led to a very solitary life at the end of the working day.

She had tried to set Silver up many times to get him to settle down and give her grandkids to spoil but Silver just wasn't that kind of person. He had had dalliances many times, but they never meant anything to him, just a way to blow off steam or secure a deal. Strangely the women seemed to want nothing to do with him afterwards and he suspected Domino's interference on that. She couldn't kill them because they were all daughters of high-profile businessmen but every time he saw the women afterwards they quickly made excuses to not be seen with him. He wasn't that bad in bed, was he? Domino had long had a weird fascination with him, he knew this because he'd often exploited it, but she was far too beneath him for him to even consider her as a companion. That and she was a touch crazy. But she was extremely efficient at getting things done and often had wise counsel.

And she was gone. And he didn't know where she was. He knew that the task he had given her had a serious risk of it being her last mission, Domino knew too but she was extremely capable at assassinations and had never failed yet in the eight years she'd been his number two. It was highly likely that his dad had discovered her and killed her. He would like to get her body back though so she could have a proper burial, she deserved that much at least.

Watching the tournament had been fascinating to him. He had a long-held passion for battling, he knew he was good, maybe better than his father which said something, but it had been such a long time since he had been in a proper fight. He had always been told he was far too important to be a mere battler but hidden in his safe were the eight badges of Johto that he gained in secret when he had travelled before taking control of the company. Clair and Pryce were difficult to beat but when he won, they both said they looked forward to seeing him at the league. He had never been able to compete there though. His mother would see him battling and pull him out of the competition because his grandfather had certain expectations that she swore to uphold after his death. He was supposed to be above such menial things.

He had read over several reports he gained from a team he had sent to scout it. Such events were usually a great place to gain new members of Team Rocket but this year there was a surprisingly low number of people he'd want. Agatha had been right, the standard had been piss poor. The top 16 were far better than the others who had been ejected but he knew he'd have no chance in recruiting even two of that number. They were far too strong to be utilised as mere grunts and they didn't know the business workings of Team Rocket to make them Admins or Executives. He may have to relax that stance though if he wanted his company to rise again.

Checking his itinerary, he realised he had a few hours free. Standing up he made a decision. "Come Persian, we're going to train."

Ash

At 6:30 Ash made his way out of his chalet and started walking towards the main plaza. He had found out that John had narrowly won his match having to use Dragonair to beat Mikes last two, but it was a close call. Ash wasn't too worried as he had Sylveon in his last slot and he was sure John wouldn't have a counter for her. Since his match with Richie, he had been training in the morning almost exclusively with her so they could come up with a proper style together. They had been partners now for close to a year, but she was only on his roster when he was training in Pokémon centres, so she was a bit stiff for the first few days. She soon got the hang of battling competitively though and soon enough she was doing pretty well.

Reaching the restaurant, he walked in and told the Maître 'D that he had a table for three booked. The man strangely didn't have his name, so Ash pulled out his Pokégear and rang J.

"I'm at the front, what name did you book under? Really? You are kidding right? Ok, I'll be there shortly." Hanging up he told the man "It's booked under Jessie and James." Quickly he found it and was led to their table. Sitting down next to Jessie and facing James he ordered a drink while he looked through the menu.

"Jessie and James?" Ash asked raising his eyebrow "I thought you were supposed to be hiding?"

"There's no point" Jessie said smiling "The boss knows we're here. Andrew made contact a few days ago and we informed him that we're scouting you to try and get information on the boss's mother from you."

"I wasn't privy to anything that happened" Ash said "I'm not high up enough for that yet. The first I heard of it was after the Mewtwo incident when I arrived back in Pallet Town to find half the grounds of the lab destroyed. I just know it was planned. Who undertook the kidnapping though I have no idea nor do I know where she is, I can speculate all you want but I have no definitive answer for you. Sorry. Oh and I'd stay way from Sam's lab for a while if I were you, his Charizard will not hesitate to eviscerate you on sight."

"We thought as much. Still, we've asked now and that's all we can do" Jessie said.

"Tell me about this Andrew" Ash said as he took the drink from the waitress and gave her his food order.

"Well, it seems like you've met him." James said, "from the description you gave us he was the one who scouted your house."

"He's ruthless, cold, driven. He doesn't talk much either." Jessie continued "his work is his life and he's bloody good at it. He's been Silvers chief assassin for years now and has never failed to eliminate a target yet."

"You can see why we're a bit scared" James said nervously swiping the condensation from his drink glass.

"Would he be missed?" Ash asked quietly.

"No" Jessie said "only by the boss. Why?"

"I have a tentative plan. I currently have several open plots that are due to be filled in two weeks by trees that will long outlive me." Ash said looking around making sure no one was listening "the only issue is I don't really want a dead body on my land where a random Pokémon could dig up the bones in years to come. I'm weighing it up. My Pokémon are on board with it, reluctantly. Especially Venusaur as it's his garden but he understands what's at stake. We vowed to eradicate Team Rocket Root and Stem."

"Luring him should be easy" Jessie said "I think if you presented yourself as an easy target he'd act. And given how isolated your house is it serves as a place he'd likely target. One thing about Andrew that we know is that human collateral damage is an absolute no-no. His target is the only one he'd kill, everyone else that got in the way would be knocked out."

"What Pokémon does he have?" Ash asked as the food was delivered "and would me being the current Champion deter him when I win?"

"Possibly" James said thinking it over "unlikely though if he can kill you without attracting your Pokémon's attention. He doesn't own a Pokémon himself; he loans them from Team Rocket, so he has no worries about any of them being injured. If he can keep your Pokémon occupied long enough to get to his target, then he's fine with that as he knows his targets are unlikely to kill Pokémon. Every Executive is given a Pokémon that can teleport so that's really the only Pokémon you need to bother about. It's usually a Kadabra as an Alakazam could be trained to challenge the boss."

Nodding Ash mulled over in his head. "Did you find anything out about Domino's disappearance?"

"Only what your mother told us" James said "and we've been told to wait around the league as Giovanni is due to be here for the final along with all the other gym leaders for the opening presentation. We've been tasked with kidnapping him."

Ash burst out laughing at that attracting several disapproving looks. "Well good luck with that one. He's the strongest trainer outside the Elite Four for a reason. In the time he's been Viridian Gym Leader he's lost two Elite challenges. Don't forget the trainers that reach the league only face off against one of them in a gym battle. My situation was different so if you're planning on taking him out you better be prepared to die because he won't let you leave alive."

"We know" James said quietly "we plan on just talking to him. Not even the boss's Pokémon can challenge him, how he expects us to do so I don't know."

"What we do know is he's planning to recruit from the tournament" Jessie said quietly "so be careful. Any enemies you make here could be used against you later."

"I have only one" Ash said ruefully "John Dickson has it in for me and has since I beat him in Vermillion City ten months ago. And given he'll likely reach the final he would be a prime recruit, should he join. I think if he's given the opportunity by Silver to eliminate me, he'll happily take it, what he thinks about the rest of what you lot do I don't know."

"He's certainly on the radar given the chatter we've picked up" Jessie said, "but he would be foolish to try anything given how high profile you're becoming."

"We'll see won't we" Ash said as he finished his meal and took a few notes out of his wallet placing them on the table "survive another week, I'll have decided by then and I'll let you know. Either way he'll need to be neutralised. Have a nice date you two." Standing up he finished his drink and walked out leaving Jessie and James to their meal.

Walking back into his chalet he mulled over the conversation. Seeing his mother sat down he wandered over and gave her a hug. Sitting down opposite her he asked what she was doing.

"I'm just looking through pictures of Red and I at our wedding along with baby pictures of you." Delia said with a soft smile on her face "I do this from time to time to remind myself how lucky I once was and how lucky I'll be again when we find him."

"What if he's not alive anymore mum?" Ash asked quietly giving voice to a thought that had long since been in his mind.

"Do not talk like that!" she replied sharply "Sorry. I would know if he's truly gone. My heart would feel it. At the minute that part that holds him is dull but not dead. No, he's alive somewhere. we'll find him."

Nodding they sat in silence looking through the pictures, his mum sometimes giving a commentary on what was happening around them both at the time.

Wednesday was fast approaching and for the first time Ash became a little nervous. He had reached the goal he had set himself. The final four was a respectable way to end the league challenge should he lose and he had proven to everyone that he belonged here. Losing in the final wouldn't be as big a loss to him as a loss in the final four would be as he knew what might have been would play on his mind. He was beginning to get restless, and Delia had long since left to go shopping, annoyed at him sighing and fidgeting. Deciding to go for a wander he left with Pikachu in tow and headed to the park. Sitting down on the grass he let Machamp and Venusaur out and watched people who were passing, he was recognised by a lot of people but thankfully he was left alone. That was until someone sat beside him disturbing his peace. Looking next to him he saw it was Nia.

"Hello" he said, "are you alright?"

"At least your voice remained normal this time" Pikachu said opening his eye and seeing who it was.

"My voice is always normal thank you very much" Ash said irritated.

"No, it isn't" Pikachu commented sleepily at his side "but this time you've not made a fool of yourself."

"Give it time" Machamp said from behind while he was meditating, eyes closed.

"Hey," Ash said twisting around "don't you start too. I get enough grief from Pikachu without you joining in."

"He's not wrong though" Pikachu said, "there is ample time."

"You two have a discussion about picking on me or something?" Ash asked shaking his head.

"No" Machamp said opening one eye "It's just easy to do so."

Muttering about abusive Pokémon under his breath he gave Pikachu a glare. That was until giggling distracted him and he remembered why he was arguing with his Pokémon. "Apologies Miss Nia. My Pokémon are under the impression they're funny."

"I have no idea what they said" Nia replied laughing. It was such a beautiful laugh that Ash found it very hard to not just watch her face light up. "But I gather they're picking on you?"

"Yes" Ash said ruefully.

"Can you tell me what they said?" Nia asked smiling at him.

"Every time I talk to a girl, they start on me" Ash said contemplating what to say "It all comes from my first interaction with Lorelei when I squeaked at her when she sat down next to me. Don't laugh! Other than my mother and my mentors Granddaughter I didn't really talk to people let alone girls that much growing up. So, to have someone just start talking to me at random, and an Elite Four member at that left me a little tongue tied."

"You did the same with Elesa" Pikachu said still not opening his eyes. "And it was more than a little."

"Yes, thank you" Ash said bitingly "I also apparently did the same when I talked to Lt Surges daughter for the first time but that quickly passed. Ever since then they've not stopped teasing me whenever I talk to a pretty girl. And every time I chat to Lt Surge they always pipe up with 'how's Elesa doing?' despite them knowing I'm not in contact with her."

"You think I'm pretty?" Nia asked shocked.

"Really?" Ash asked sceptically." That's what you took from that?"

"Yes really" Nia said "I mean I heard the rest, but still…"

"Yes" Ash said "I think you're very pretty. So why are you here?" he finished hoping to change the subject.

"Actually, I'm a little embarrassed by this but could you do something for me?" Nia said looking a bit sheepish.

"Go on" Ash said.

She reached into her bag and pulled out a book Ash instantly recognised it as his Aura book The Aura Within. "You got my book?" he asked surprised. He'd honestly forgotten he had released that book as it was that long ago that it was published.

"Oh yes" she said enthusiastically "it's amazing. I was in the crowd that day in Saffron City and I saw what you did for everyone. Ever since then I've waited for it to be released and when it was, I was one of the first in line to get a copy. It's incredible. The way you describe what aura is and how everyone could access it if they tried, the way you list step-by-step instructions on how to prepare yourself and your body for the strain it puts on you was very informative. And the fact you made it free for everyone astounded me. You could have made a fortune on this! Sadly, I've not been able to do much as I've only been able to train off and on due to the league challenge, but it's been incredible. Sorry, I know I'm gushing."

"Marry her" Pikachu said yawning and stretching.

"It's ok" Ash said somewhat bemused by her and ignoring his starter. "I'm glad you've found it helpful. That's why I made it free for everyone. To protect yourself from psychic intrusion and manipulation and to also give everyone the chance to be able to interact with Pokémon better. I'm not going to pretend I did it purely out of the goodness of my heart, I have a very strained relationship with Rota, in particular their Queen who limits the access of utilising aura exclusively to her own guards and in doing so she's allowed the psychics of the world to recover from the Great War. Her entire ancestry has done the same thing so she's not alone in being culpable."

"Ash" Machamp said, eyes still closed "you're ranting again."

"I'm not ranting" Ash said patiently "I'm explaining why I released the book. Human psychics are an abomination and should be eradicated. They've bastardised the use of aura purely for their own benefit. Anyway, enough about that. What did you want me to do?"

Nia had been entranced by how passionate he was about the usage of aura and felt the disgust of psychics, particularly after how her home city had been under their influence for such a long time. She only admitted to her mother very recently that she felt violated by Sabrina and it had left her feeling a bit dirty. She would be forever thankful for the aura user that had come into the city and cleansed it before disappearing again into the sunset and took note of his name. She made sure to pre-order the book at Silph and indeed was one of the first to queue up for it. It seemed all of Saffron had turned out to get the book and she wasn't lying when she said Ash could have made a fortune from selling it. And then seeing him in the league had left her a bit star-struck. There he was! And he was just as magnificent as she remembered him being. When the draw was being done for the last 32 and 16, she was a little disappointed that she may not get to meet him but then the draw for the final 8 and final 4 was made and it would put him in her path, and she was determined to battle him. Coming to herself she shook her head and remembered why she had sat beside him.

"Can you sign it please?" she asked nervously.

"Really?" Ash asked surprised. He had never met a fan and was a little surprised that he would be battling someone he was a fan of too.

"Yes" she said simply looking at him "you don't realise what you did do you?"

"What do you mean?" he asked confused as he took the pen and book offered and started to sign it at the front before pausing. This was his first autograph, so he tried to think of something meaningful. Thinking of something he signed it and handed it back to her closed.

"Ash" she said pondering how to phrase it "I'm from Saffron City."

"Ah" he said as he began to see.

"Yes" she said nodding solemnly "for so long we were all under the thrall of that bitch Sabrina. Sorry, but she makes me so angry. She violated the trust of every single person in that city for so long along with their minds. The city is still healing from her influence you know? For months afterwards there were fights breaking out from people who were once friends wondering if they were part of the conspiracy too. When your book came out nearly all Saffron was in the queue. It healed the city, Ash. Those who fought realised that if they were part of Sabrinas band then they wouldn't be wanting to be truly free from her and thus wouldn't get your book and they reconnected. The city is still healing but it's in a much better place now and it's all thanks to you."

"She's not wrong" a voice said from the side of him. Looking at where the voice came from, he saw a young couple with their little girl between them seemingly listening to Nia's impassioned speech "sorry, but I needed to say something. My aunt lives in Saffron. For months afterwards she didn't speak to anyone because she didn't know who to trust. But when your book came out and she started the meditation sessions she reached out and told us what happened. We immediately ordered your book too and found Sally here is quite gifted in it." His wife smiled at him and nodded "we would never have been able to protect ourselves or even known we had to if it wasn't for you. So, despite what people may think of you after your battle with Tentacruel or what you might hear from the idiots in this world, just know that some of us will be forever grateful for what you did for the people in Saffron and their families, and we owe you a debt we may never be able to repay." The family nodded at him before carrying on down the path.

"Wow" Ash said stunned "I just wanted to get rid of psychics. I had no idea. Thank you."

"I know" Nia said standing up "but now you do. But remember this, just because I'm a fan of yours doesn't mean I'll let you walk all over me tomorrow. We'll give it everything we've got so you better bring your A game."

"Oh, you can be sure of that" Ash said smiling coming back to himself and also standing up "my Pokémon would accept nothing less from me and as you can see have no issues reminding me of anything. I'll see you tomorrow."

Recalling Machamp he nodded to Nia and Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder as they walked away. Tentatively she opened the book to see what Ash had written.

Nia

May our battle tomorrow be just as beautiful as you are.

Your fan

Ash

Blushing heavily, she put the book back in her bag and went back to her hotel room where she went through the conversation. Tomorrow would be a big day.

And it arrived very soon for Ash. His battle was at 10am so after a light breakfast he made his way to the stadium and checked in with the receptionist who directed him to a lounge just off to the side where the other three semi-finalists were already waiting. He briefly nodded to Nia and Ashley but ignored the glare from John. He was purely focused on the battle ahead. Soon a league official came to meet them, and they all followed them to the stadium field where Ash was amazed at the noise from the crowd. Quickly he drowned it out when he saw Charles Goodshow take the podium.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you our final four. By the end of the day only two will progress to Sunday's final while the other two will battle it out on Saturday for the third-place trophy. Any of the four remaining trainers would make the final a brilliant spectacle so without further ado I give you Ash, Nia, Ashley and John!"

The wall of noise hit them again as the crowd cheered for them. Ashley and John were led away into the trainer's box to observe the match.

"Today's battle will take place on the neutral field" the referee said taking Charles' place on the stand "The rules are as follows. It's a standard 5 on 5 battle, where the winner with the last Pokémon remaining wins. In the event of a draw the Pokémon that gets back to its feet and stays upright for ten seconds wins. We will have a winner. Standard move rules apply. When one side has three Pokémon knocked out, we will be changing the field to one at random using the machine. If I announce a disqualification, there will be no rebuttals during the match. Good luck to you both. Please shake hands and when I announce it both of you will release your first Pokémon." Nodding Ash shook Nia's hand and walked away to his side and climbed the stairs to his box as Nia did the same. "Are you both ready? Then trainers release your first Pokémon"

"Machamp" Ash shouted as he released his superpower Pokémon "you're up."

"Flareon" Nia shouted as she released her Eeveelution "It's battle time."

"Brick Break"

"Flamethrower"

"Dodge and keep going, get in close" Ash shouted.

"Sweep" Nia shouted as her Flareon moved its head from side to side to move the fire in front of her covering her entire front.

"Protect and keep going" Ash said as a forcefield sprang up in front of his Pokémon as it charged getting closer and letting the flames wash over him.

"Quick Attack to get away and Sand Attack whenever you can" Nia shouted as her Pokémon stopped the flames and quickly sped away.

"Machamp stop and use Earthquake" Ash said as his Pokémon stopped and raised its arms before smashing them into the ground causing the Flareon to stumble around taking the hit. When the tremors stopped, she noticed that the Machamp had used the time to get closer and immediately she began to create a mini sandstorm and sent it at Machamp who had to cover itself from the attack. From her protected position in the dust, she sent another Flamethrower causing Machamp to roar in pain as it swept over him.

"Damn" Ash said "she's good. Machamp take it and use Brick Break."

Roaring in pain he rushed forwards to where the attack was coming from only to find nothing there. Confused he turned around to take another blast of flames to the face making him cover up.

"Earthquake again" Ash shouted as Machamp again smashed the ground causing the sand to disappear as Flareon to become visible "Brick Break" before Nia could react her Flareon was smashed into and Machamp began wailing on her Pokémon before she was thrown away by a panting Machamp. Steadily Flareon got to her feet and glared at her opponent.

"She's still up" Ash said quietly confused "how?" it was then that Ash noticed one of Machamps arms covering its side "damn, he's burned. That's why. Earthquake again Machamp."

"Flare Blitz" Nia shouted as her Pokémon jumped across the shaking ground taking the attack and sped up towards her opponent where she smashed into him sending them both spiralling into the ground where dust kicked up again making it impossible to see. Ash however saw through the dust focusing on their aura and grimaced.

When the dust cleared the crowd gasped in amazement. Machamp was still standing but barely while Flareon was at its feet knocked out.

"Flareon is unable to battle, Machamp wins. Nia, please send out your second Pokémon." The referee shouted.

"Good try Flareon. Have a good rest. Jolteon you're up" she shouted.

Seeing Machamp was barely standing he went to recall him before Machamp dodged the beam. Looking at Ash he glared at him before Ash nodded. His Machamp was perhaps his most prideful Pokémon, not in terms of ego because that went to Charizard, but he was determined to be beaten by a strong opponent rather than be recalled.

"Thunder" Nia shouted as a huge bolt of lightning was sent Machamps way. Not needing any direction Machamp knew it would lose this match up and smashed his hands into the ground as hard as he could creating another Earthquake which did a fair bit of damage to his opponent. He accepted his fate as the bolt struck him and created an explosion which sent him flying backwards into the ground knocking him out.

"And Machamp gets a hit in before being knocked out making this the first time Ash has lost a Pokémon in this tournament. That Earthquake looked like it did some serious damage to Jolteon. Who will Ash send out now?" the announcer shouted.

"Machamp is unable to battle. Ash, please send out your next Pokémon" the referee shouted.

Recalling Machamp he looked at his opponents Pokémon before making a decision "Pi."

Pikachu nodded before jumping down to the floor.

"And Ash sends out his Pikachu. Remember folks after the last battle this little mouse is not to be underestimated."

"Already?" Nia asked quietly.

"Pi use Thunderbolt, I want to test something." Ash shouted.

"Take it" Nia said smiling confidently as her Pokémon lit up. When the attack ended quite a few people were surprised that it had taken such a powerful attack.

"Thought so" Ash said "Pi, it has Volt Absorb. No electricity from now on."

"Jolteon, we know it has Lightningrod. No electricity either" Nia said.

"And both trainers quickly took note of the other Pokémon's abilities. This will not be a test of electrical power but skill" the announcer called out.

"Quick Attack" Nia shouted.

"Match it Pi" Ash shouted.

For the next few minutes, it was a match of who could actually hit the other. While Pikachu had trained using its body as a weapon Jolteon were very spiky and any attack was felt. Pikachu knew that he would eventually lose this kind of battle and said so to Ash while they were resting on their side of the field.

"I know" Ash said confidently "but your attacks were felt too. Get in close, it's time to end this one. Quick Attack"

Shaking her head Nia ordered her Jolteon to do the same "Pikachu will come off worse here Ash" she said confidently.

"Not this time" Ash said as Pikachu managed to get behind the Jolteon after several hits on each other. "Iron Tail its legs quickly."

Jolteon roared in pain as he felt the attack take out his hind legs making him look behind at where the attack hit leaving his face exposed. Pikachu capitalised on it and sent another metallic tail to its face making him fold under the attack. Groggily he tried to stand before he was hit again and was knocked out.

"Jolteon is unable to battle. Pikachu wins. Nia, please send out your third Pokémon" The referee shouted.

Looking at Pikachu she noticed that it had a few bruises but otherwise could still battle. She had three Pokémon left but knew she couldn't use one just yet as she would be at a severe disadvantage.

"I didn't want to use you so soon but Clefable, lend me your power" Nia said sending out her Pokémon.

"And Nia sends out her own starter. This match is starting to heat up."

"Be careful Pi" Ash said, "this Pokémon is no joke."

"You hear that Clefable? Ash knows your power. So, let's show him how strong we really are. Use Metronome" Nia said smiling as her Pokémon wagged its finger and began chanting.

"Shit" Ash mumbled. Metronome was a move Ash hated but had faced many times. It was pure luck what move would be used "Pi be prepared for anything." Ash was right to be wary as from the sky it started raining meteors causing Pikachu to dodge frantically.

"And Clefables Metronome turns into Draco Meteor causing Pikachu to scramble about to dodge the meteors."

"Again" Nia said smiling seeing Ash look on concerned. Wagging its finger, the ground began to shake, and it split open causing Pikachu to lose its balance and fall into the cracks.

"You have got to be kidding me" Ash said as Pikachu managed to climb out of the hole that had been created "a bloody Fissure attack. Pi, we need to end this before it gets any more ridiculous. Thunderbolt when you can."

"Light Screen" Nia called out "and then Metronome again."

Ash pinched his nose in frustration at the way the battle was going as the Thunderbolt washed over Clefable doing only minor damage before it wagged its finger, and a torrent of fire raced its way towards Pikachu who scrambled to get out of the way. "Can Clefable control what moves it uses with Metronome?" he shouted over to Nia who just smiled back and laughed.

"It seems Ash has no answer for Clefable who sends an Inferno Pikachus way. It seems that for all its power Pikachu simply cannot get an attack to be successful at hitting his opponent."

"Pi" Ash said, "time to think outside the box here get in close and wait for me to tell you what I have planned."

"Don't let it close Clefable" Nia said to her Pokémon "Metronome."

Pikachu began speeding towards his opponent annoyed that it was being made a fool of. From underneath the ground rocks began forming into pillars with each step trying to block its path but Pikachu was not Ash's quickest Pokémon for nothing and sped up before getting within five feet of a concerned looking Clefable.

"Thunder Wave" Ash shouted smiling seeing an opportunity as Clefable was still concentrating on using the Rock Tomb attack. Nia looked on concerned as moves that created status conditions ignored moves like Light Screen and soon electricity washed over her Pokémon who cried out in pain. "Quickly use Iron Tail". Clefable was sent flying backwards from the attack and struggled to its feet. "Again Pi"

"Clefable use Metronome" setting its feet it took the attack and continued with its own and began to glow white.

"Pi" Ash shouted frantically "get out of there." Pikachu just managed to start to jump before he was sent hurtling across the ground at a terrific speed and settled against Ash trainer box wall.

"And there we have the disadvantage of Metronome folks. Due to its nature any move can be used and sadly for Clefable and Nia it used Explosion. The only benefit to taking itself out is it seems to have taken its opponent with it too."

"Clefable and Pikachu are unable to battle" the referee shouted over the crowd "as Nia has lost three Pokémon to Ash's two, we will now take a ten-minute break to change the field."

Ash raced down to the ground to collect his stricken Pokémon and ran into his room where he healed Pikachu up. Thankfully Pikachu had just been caught in the blast radius and not taken the move face on otherwise he would be severely wounded. Breathing a sigh of relief, he called out his other three Pokémon and explained what was coming up.

"It's likely I'll need a few of you. I know at least one of her Pokémon she'll use due to Pikachu being taken out. I've never seen the last one yet so it could be anything and if her Clefable is anything to go by they're very well trained so take them seriously."

Receiving nods Ash recalled them and waited for the knock on his door. When it happened, Ash put his game face on and walked out to the field and into his box as Nia mirrored him. Looking down at the ground he nodded thoughtfully. An Ice field would benefit one, hinder another and be neutral to his last Pokémon. Coming to a decision he released his Pokémon.

"Amazing folks. We have the battle of Venusaurs as both competitors release their grass starters."

Laughing Ash shook his head at the coincidence. Gauging them he saw his starter was bigger but that didn't mean much until they tested out their power against each other.

"Venusaur use Razor Leaf" Nia shouted as her Pokémon sent out wickedly sharp looking leaves.

"Vine Whip them" Ash said thinking back to the battle with Mewtwo. Venusaur obeyed and swatted them out of the air before sending his vines at his opponent where he wrapped them around her and attempted to pick her up. He struggled due to the sheer bulk but eventually he managed to pick her up and throw her backwards where she gritted her teeth at the attack.

"Sunny Day" Nia shouted. Venusaur obeyed and shot an intense ball of light up into the air which made the clouds that had been overhead disappear and rays of light shine down on them.

"Leech Seed" Ash said as Venusaur released many unbloomed bulbs and sent them at his opponent where they quickly spread over her and began to constrict her as they bloomed.

"And Ash outthinks Nia again. Every move she's used so far has been countered superbly by Ash and his own Venusaur."

Gritting her teeth, she knew she was now on a timer as her Venusaur's health was being sapped quicker than normal due to the sun's rays.

"Solarbeam" she shouted knowing she'd need to go big.

"Match it" Ash shouted and soon two huge beams of light headed towards each other and collided in the centre causing an explosion.

"Sludge Bomb" Ash shouted taking Nia by surprise as her Venusaur was pelted with globs of poison. When the attack ended, she saw a purple hue on her Pokémon's face and cursed. Poisoned and health being sapped she recalled her Pokémon.

"Vaporeon, you're up" Nia shouted.

"It seems Nia is out of options as she chooses Vaporeon as her final Pokémon after being severely outclassed by Ash and his Venusaur. And while type disadvantage can play a big part here Nia hasn't much of a choice."

"Ice Beam" she shouted.

"Solarbeam" Ash said still using the benefit of the sun's rays beating down and the two attacks clashed before the Solarbeam overpowered the Ice and sent Vaporeon flying backwards crying out in pain.

"How?" Nia asked looking confused.

"The sun" Ash said hearing her pointing upwards making her grimace as she realised what was happening. She was losing her head and it was showing. Ash had countered everything she sent his way. How she wished Clefable was still able to battle. Ash on the other hand looked up at the sky, he maybe had another thirty seconds before his advantage was over and charging sunlight would become an issue.

"Solarbeam and sweep" Venusaur acted instantly and sent out a huge beam of light that hurtled towards Vaporeon who did her best to dodge the beam sweeping across the field. Nia could only look on as she knew all Vaporeon needed to do was outlast the beam and she would have the advantage then but just as the light was starting to fade, she was clipped on her feet and sent sprawling and was immediately targeted by the beam which sent her flying backwards crying out in pain. When the beam ended Vaporeon stood up but had scorch marks and bruises starting to form over her body. Winning the match had just become very unlikely with Ash still having two fresh Pokémon in reserve.

"Good job Vaporeon" Nia shouted, "Ice Beam."

"Sludge Bomb" Ash countered. The two attacks collided in mid-air causing a mini explosion and they both had the same idea of firing again which slipped past each other's attacks and hit each other causing them both to roar in pain. Venusaur was lucky he was still fairly fresh as the attack did a fair amount of damage. Vaporeon on the other hand was exhausted and was hit by the powerful poison attack sending her skidding backwards where she slumped to the ground. Ash waited to see if she would get back up.

Nia cheered as Vaporeon staggered to her feet "Yes. I'm very proud of you Vaporeon use Quick Attack into Ice Beam."

"Take it, when it gets close use Leech Seed" Ash said. Venusaur trusted that Ash would not let him get too hurt and gritted his teeth as he took the attack on his already injured flank from the previous Ice Beam. When Vaporeon was twenty feet away he started spamming Leech Seeds all over the ground in front of him. The chances of none hitting were remote and Vaporeon was far committed to attacking to be able to pull away in time and triggered many of them causing her to break off her attack and try and shake off the blooms that were starting to entwine all over her body. Venusaur saw this and launched more covering Vaporeon sapping her of her health and soon the inevitable happened and she collapsed in front of Venusaur who gently picked her up with his vines and set her closer to Nia.

Recalling her she knew she had lost as her own Venusaur was poisoned and was on a time limit and while Ash's Venusaur had taken hits he was still very much able to battle after regaining health back through Leech Seed. Sighing she sent out her Venusaur who staggered upon landing feeling the poison affect her. She had already taken a lot of damage already and wouldn't last long. Nia knew this so decided to end things on their terms.

"Venusaur, we won't win, but we're going to show everybody why we got here. Use Sunny Day and then Solarbeam, full power." Her Pokémon nodded in understanding. Ash nodded respectfully at Nia and said "fire you own Venusaur. Take her down."

The crowd watched in anticipation and despite knowing this match was over as a contest, Ash had two fresh Pokémon in reserve after all they still watched with bated breath as the two Pokémon gathered power for what seemed like an eternity. Soon though both Ash and Nia had deemed enough charging had happened and both shouted "Now!" two huge beams of light raced towards each other causing a massive explosion in the centre which swept up the dust and dirt from the field completely covering everything from view. The attack tested the Alakazams forcefield abilities to keep the attacks from the crowd, but they just about managed.

Ash knew who the winner was. It was never really in doubt due to the damage he'd inflicted on Nia's Pokémon, but it was the closest he'd come all tournament to going all out. Soon enough the dust settled to find her Venusaur unconscious while Ash's Venusaur was standing tall despite looking battered and bruised.

"Nia's Venusaur is unable to battle, Ash's Venusaur wins. As Nia is out of Pokémon Ash wins and moves on to Sunday's final." The referee shouted to raucous applause from the crowd. Ash slumped in his box as the moment overcame him. He had done it. He had made it further than any rookie in history and was one win away from cementing his legacy as a future superstar.

"We did it Pi" he said to his partner who was looking a lot better than he did forty minutes ago "I cannot thank you enough for being with me through all this. By rights we should have died months ago but we didn't and despite knowing we were good enough to compete we've proved we are."

"One battle left Ash" Pikachu said wincing slightly "I'll be honest, I'll be glad for the rest after Sunday whichever way the match ends."

"We'll win" Ash said, "we didn't come this far to fall at the final hurdle." Standing up he offered his arm to Pikachu who ran up it and settled onto his shoulder. Making his way down the steps he joined Nia who was already there waiting for him. He offered his hand, but she ignored it and pulled him into a hug.

"Congratulations Ash." She said tearfully "while I wish it was me in the final, I'm glad it was you that beat us. We'll be watching you. Good luck" pulling away she impulsively kissed him on the cheek before walking off down the tunnel. Ash however just stood there stunned at what just happened. Soon though he regained control of his emotions and remembered where he was. Looking over to his mother he sprinted over to her and vaulted up the side of the wall and stopped in front of her before sweeping her up into a hug.

"We did it mum" Ash said, "we did it."

Delia was a mess. She hadn't felt this nervous since she saw Red fight for his Championship against Blue but when the dust cleared and she saw Nia's Pokémon out for the count she silently started crying as Sam gave her a hug and shouted "He won! He did it!" and then he was there right in front of her shouting the same and all she could do was clutch onto him and cry too. Eventually he let go and gave her a kiss on the cheek before leaping back down to the field waving to the cheering crowd and heading down the tunnel for his press conference.

"So, Ash, you've made it to the final. Not only that but a rookie has never got this far before. How do you feel?"

"Exhausted" Ash said honestly "when it hit me in the box Pikachu said the same. The mental strain it's put on us has been unbelievable, but we reached our goal. From the start the final four was always the goal that we set ourselves. We knew that we were good enough, we had trained better than anyone else I had seen, and we knew we were strong. Today proved that."

"Can you give a comment on your opponent. Nia was unlucky today, wasn't she?"

"Yeah, she was" Ash said nodding "she was incredible as she has been all tournament. Sadly, Metronome strats went against her today when she was in a winning position. Pikachu and I had no answer for her at the time as every move used was strong. I'm not sure we would have won that one without taking serious losses."

"The battle was easy after that wasn't it?"

"No, no battle at this level is ever easy but I think the loss of Clefable threw her strategy off and she couldn't recover properly" Ash said disagreeing "She made mistakes that on another day she wouldn't have made, and we capitalised. I still believe we would have won but I don't think the scoreline reflects how tough she was."

"You're now in Sunday's final. Who do you hope to face?"

"Either of them will do" Ash said "we can only beat who's put in front of us. Sunday is a while off though and I'm going to go and get my Pokémon healed and watch the other semi-final. Thank you."

Pushing his way through the crowd of reporters he headed for the Pokémon Centre and handed over his Pokémon and sat down where he let it settle over him. He was in the final. Now all he could do was wait to see who would be joining him.

A few hours later he was sat with his mum and Sam again in the crowd watching the battle between John and Ashley. It had gone to the wire, but Johns Dragonair had managed to dig him out of the shit again and he won.

"Amazing folks, from the brink of defeat John wins and will move on to Sunday's final where he will meet Ash Ketchum for the winners trophy. Commiserations to Ashley who put up a terrific fight, but she will fight Nia on Saturday for the third-place playoff. Give them both a hand for a terrific match."

Ash watched as John and Ashley left the arena and headed back to his chalet with his mum. Loading up the computer he looked at Johns profile and saw what Pokémon he had and what he had used. There were many opportunities that Ash could take advantage of as several strategies went through his mind. Ash felt substitutions would play a significant part in the final. He couldn't wait.

Chapter 42: Chapter 42

Chapter Text

Chapter 42- Luck?

That evening Ash watched back the video of his match with Nia as it had finally been put onto his trainer profile. The match was a great one for the neutrals, but Ash saw several mistakes that he made during the course of the battle. The Clefables Metronome strats had severely thrown him off his game and he was very lucky that it used Explosion, or it would have possibly gone down to the wire between them. For all his training he hadn't mastered going against such unconventional strategies and that frustrated him. Nia lost the match; Ash didn't win it. And it irritated him.

Delia had been about to go to bed when she looked in on Ash watching his match on the big TV that he was streaming from his computer. She was so proud of him; he had achieved something not even his father did and yet he didn't look happy about it. Knocking on his door she walked in and sat on his bed next to him and observed the battle between Pikachu and Clefable. Picking up his remote Ash rewound it to the beginning and watched it again.

"That's really got to you, hasn't it?" Delia said watching the TV camera pan to Ash who looked confused "that's the only time I've seen you look out of ideas in a battle."

Turning the TV off Ash looked at his mum and said "it's the only time I've felt baffled by the entire situation. I had no answer for her strategy, none. I've been up against it before, but we managed to win that one because we were faster and stronger. But against Nia? I'd no idea what to do. Every move that was called forth was one of great power which her Pokémon could back up, not only that but we had no counter except to dodge. It's not good enough."

"Ash, you won." Delia said.

"No, I didn't mum" Ash said looking back at the screen, the battle imprinted on his vision "Nia lost and there's a big difference. We got lucky."

"Sometimes you need a bit of luck Ash" Delia said.

"I can't rely on luck mum because against better and tougher opposition I would have lost." Ash said running a hand across his face.

Pausing in silence Delia wondered what to say when a memory came across her mind. "Have you ever watched your dad's championship match?"

"No, I haven't." Ash said confused "why?"

"Can you get it onto the big screen?" Delia asked.

Nodding Ash climbed off the bed and went over to his computer and typed in his dad's profile. He had only been on this a few times but as he was scrolling down, he was amazed by how many battles he had been in. Scrolling back up to the top he found it and clicked on it. Walking back over to his bed he sat down and turned the TV back on.

"Don't start it yet" Delia said, "I'll be back in a minute."

"I wonder what this is about Pi" Ash murmured.

"We'll find out won't we." He replied.

A minute later Delia came back in with two cups of tea and some biscuits and sat down with Ash to watch it. "You can press play now."

Doing so Ash and his mum watched his dads most famous battle, the one that won him the title of Pokémon League Champion against Blue. Ash was mesmerised by the way his dad fought, the way he commanded his Pokémon who seemed to have absolute trust in him and carried out every attack. Blue was just as good though and he could see why they were rivals. Gary could learn a lot by watching this Ash mused. Soon it was the final battle, starter vs starter which would decide the match.

"Here it comes" Delia murmured causing Ash to focus more on what she was talking about. For the life of him though he had no idea what she wanted him to see, and the battle ended with a brutal Seismic Toss. "Did you see it?"

"No" Ash said pausing looking at his mum confused. Grabbing the remote she rewound it back a few minutes to a specific spot and pressed play. It was Blue commanding his Blastoise to use Hydro Pump at Reds Charizard who was flying straight at him and had no way of moving out of the way. And then Ash saw it, Blastoise hesitated. Grabbing the remote he rewound it back a few seconds and pressed play. He didn't imagine it, Blastoise flinched. But from what?

"How?" Ash asked.

"It happened earlier in the battle." Delia said "your father used a certain move called Spikes. You saw Blue use moves to get rid of them by destroying the battlefield with moves like Earthquake from his Golem and Hurricane from his Pidgeot but they can never guarantee they all go away. Red knew that Blastoise had a weakness in its right foot, it still plagues him to this day. It was a birth defect that causes a random spasm in his toes when he's been on his feet for too long. Now during the battle, a spike had gotten lodged in its foot and when he stepped forward to use the move Blue commanded it triggered the spasm causing the flinch and let your fathers Charizard to be able to get closer than he should have done.

Your father and Blue had forgotten about it because of the fog of battle but it gave Charizard the opportunity to grab Blastoise and finish the battle. Charizard should have lost that battle, Blastoise is deadly accurate with his water moves and Charizard wouldn't have been able to get out of the way in time. A rare mistake on your father's part yet a mistake all the same. And he still won. Luck won him that battle Ash and it took Red a long time to come to terms with winning his Championship by a stroke of luck. He even asked Blue if he wanted a rematch but Blue declined. He had achieved what he wanted by becoming Champion. That's always been enough for Blue."

"I see what you're saying mum" Ash said, "luck will sometimes be a factor in a battle, and I just have to get over myself and accept it?"

"Partly" she said laughing at his terminology "Luck will always be a factor somewhere along the way. Getting lucky today may mean your opponent gets lucky tomorrow. Fate is a wonderful unpredictable thing. But I've found you make your own luck. Your father used Spikes and it gave him the opportunity to win. Without that who knows. He created his own luck, Ash. You got lucky with Clefable that is true, but you also found a way to combat her strategy when you paralysed her Pokémon. Eventually paralysis would have taken hold and you would have been free to attack and not dodge, that's why you used that move isn't it?"

"Yeah" Ash said nodding "that was my hope."

"The strategy she used was highly effective but incredibly unpredictable. You won, she lost." Delia said standing up "why does it bother you so much anyway?"

"I had no idea how to combat it mum" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "that's all. And I thought I won by getting lucky."

"Ah ok. Well goodnight, Ash" Delia said closing the door. On the other side though she heard Pikachu ask, "why didn't you tell her?" and she stopped unsure on if she should listen in or not.

"Because I'm not sure myself Pi" she heard Ash reply "the way the battle unfolded was my main reason, but there's just something about Nia I can't get my brain around. Particularly after the chat in the park. It's left me feeling very confused."

"You should talk to your mother" Pikachu said "after all she went through the same thing with your dad. And that time is drawing ever closer."

"Yeah, but Nia?" Ash asked, "I don't even know her."

"Then message her" Pikachu said as if it was obvious.

"I'll think about it" Ash said "it's late. We need to go to sleep. Night Pi"

As she heard the lamp click off Delia walked away feeling a little concerned. What conversation did he have with his last opponent? And why had it had such a big impact on him? Maybe it was time to play detective again.

Over the next few days Delia pondered on what to do. Should she ask Ash? Should she get in touch with this Nia girl and ask her what went on? Did she have the right to interfere like that? Ash may act mature the majority of the time, but he was still only 12 years old, and she was his mother after all. Making a decision she left and headed to the main league building and waited in line to speak to the receptionist.

"Hi" Delia said, "my names Delia Ketchum, I'm Ash Ketchum's mother."

"Oh, hi Mrs Ketchum" the receptionist replied. "What can I do for you?"

"I'm not sure if you can help me but I wanted to try anyway" Delia said "My son would like to get in touch with his last opponent Nia to speak to her about something, but she left before he could speak to her. I was wondering if you had any contact information for her that I can pass on to him?"

"I'm not sure I can do that" the receptionist said looking unsure "it's confidential information after all."

"Oh, I know" Delia said smiling at her "that's why I didn't think you could help me. But I thought I'd ask anyway."

Looking around to see if anyone was watching the receptionist typed in Nias name and came up with a contact number and room number in the hotel she was staying in. "Please don't tell anyone. This is where she's staying. Please come up with a different excuse when you see her."

"Thank you very much" Delia said quietly putting the slip into her pocket "you've been incredibly helpful. I'm sorry you couldn't find the information I was after" she finished loudly before walking away. Taking a seat in a nearby café she had a glance at the slip of paper. It was only a short walk away, so she finished her cup of tea and headed off to the hotel. Walking in she spoke to the receptionist for directions and soon enough she was standing in front of Nias door. Taking a deep breath, she knocked and waited. Instead of Nia though an older woman, possibly her own age answered the door who looked like a grown-up version of Nia.

"Hello?" she said uncertainly "can I help you?"

"Hello" Delia said "my name is Delia Ketchum. I was wondering if I could speak to Nia for a moment."

"Ketchum?" she asked as she nodded and let Delia in "I'm Sarah, Nias mum. You're the boys mum then? The one Nia has been gushing over the last few days?"

"Mum!" Nia said walking into the kitchenette area looking mortified "do you have to embarrass me all the time?"

"Yes" she said simply while smiling "it's my right as your mother."

"She's right dear" Delia said smiling at the girl "when you have your own kids, you'll do the same thing."

"So, what can we do for you Mrs Ketchum?" her mum asked.

"Delia please" Delia replied "I'm not sure I should be here to be honest, but I'm concerned about my son. There are a few reasons. I overheard a conversation last night that I don't think I should have done that concerns your daughter. He was fixated over your match all evening. To the point I was getting fed up with him replaying it. But afterwards I helped him come to terms with how he won. He wasn't happy that he felt he won by being lucky that your Clefable took itself out."

"But that was my mistake" Nia said looking confused "it was my order that resulted in the loss."

"I know" Delia said, "and so does Ash, but he felt he cheated you out of a possible win."

"I wouldn't have won" Nia said shaking her head "some people are just born to be incredible at what they do. Ash is in that class. I did my best but came up short. I have no regrets."

"You are very wise" Delia said "now onto my other reason and the part I wasn't meant to overhear. Can you tell me about your conversation with him? I didn't know he had met up with you beforehand. Usually, he stays away from people the day before a battle."

"Oh" Nia said frowning "it wasn't anything serious, at least I don't think it was. I just explained to him why I'd bought his book and the impact it had on me. That's all."

"Nia" Sarah said warningly "you know that's not all it was."

"Fine" Nia said sighing and looking up at Delia "we're from Saffron City."

"Ah" Delia said interrupting "and I take it you were there when he got rid of Sabrina."

"Do not mention that witch's name" Sarah said viciously "I apologise but for months afterwards Nia was a shell of herself. It was only after a conversation we had that she told me she felt violated by what Sabrina had done to her and was questioning her own mind. In the aftermath of what happened friend turned on friend, family turned on family because they didn't know who to trust anymore if they couldn't trust their own minds. When Ash's book was released 95% of Saffron queued up to get it. Your sons book literally healed a city Delia and that's not an exaggeration. I've only just got my daughter back from what that witch did."

"Oh" Delia said, "and you told him this?"

"No" Nia said "I tried to, but I couldn't find the right words in a way that would make him understand. It was a passing couple who had relatives in Saffron who overheard what I said and corroborated how big of an impact he had on the lives of the people of Saffron. The league challenge has provided a nice distraction from my own mind and Ash's book with the instructions on how to keep your mind your own has been an incredible help to me. I wanted to meet him from the moment he left Saffron to thank him and I'm glad I did."

"Show her the book Nia, particularly the inscription" Sarah said smirking.

Sighing Nia went to her room and came back with the book. Delia opened it up and read what Ash had written. Holding a smirk, she handed it back to her. Delia looked at Nia searchingly which slightly unnerved her. After a few seconds she said "I can see why he's puzzled. As assured as he usually is there are just some things he fails at miserably. And there's others he cannot do anything about. I feel this is both of those. Don't worry, it's nothing that you can do anything about." Making a decision she took out her notebook and wrote her address and number on it along with Ash's "here, should you ever be in the area or wish to chat please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you for clearing things up."

"It's ok" Nia said sweetly "I'm glad I could help."

Standing up Delia walked to the door with Sarah behind her. As she walked through Sarah stopped her "what's going on?" she asked quietly.

"It may be nothing, but I think Ash has found his future wife in Nia." Delia said holding her hand up to stall any retort "I'll send you a book to your reception desk so you can better understand his situation. I'm not saying he has, just that he may have. When you read the chapter in the book that I'll highlight for you you'll know what I mean."

"She's 15" her mum said looking into the room making sure Nia wasn't listening. "she's much too young for such things."

"Age doesn't matter to an aura user like Ash" Delia said "Usually their Aura waits until they're 16 before they begin to search for their destined life companion. Ash is different though from normal Aura users. Please, read the book and if you have any questions don't hesitate to ring me. Just because he may have found her doesn't mean she has no choice in the matter. She does. I won't tell Ash until I'm more certain, it's up to you if you want to inform Nia, you're her mother but I'd hold off on it until you've read the book."

"Ok" Sarah said looking slightly more relieved that her daughter wasn't going to get married tomorrow "thank you. It was nice meeting you."

"Same to you" Delia said smiling "let Nia know we'll be rooting for her Saturday and that you're both welcome to join me in the Champions box Sunday for Ash's match."

"I will" Sarah said as she walked back in and closed the door behind her.

Nodding and smiling to herself Delia went about her day slightly happier that she'd received what she was looking for. She had no idea how she'd tell Ash though. Maybe this was one of those situations where she didn't have to, his own Aura would let him know after all. Walking back into the Chalet she saw Ash sat watching TV. "Ash, can I borrow Charizard please? I left something at home that I need to get, and it can't wait as it was supposed to be sent off a few days ago."

"Erm sure mum" he said as he walked into his room and handed over his Pokémon to her "here, take Blastoise and Sylveon too, don't forget Silver has you as a priority for kidnap. Have a safe flight. Judging from the time you'll likely be back here tomorrow afternoon?"

"I will" Delia said putting on a jumper, flying wasn't a warm experience after all. "I'll see you tomorrow" walking back out she released Charizard and he looked at her confused. That was until she explained she needed to go home to pick something up. Nodding he lay flat so she could climb on and soon enough they were wending their way back to Pallet Town.

Ash would be lying if he said he slept well that night. His mother was alone, and he knew if Team Rocket found out she might be targeted. Waking up the next day Ash spent longer than usual training to burn off his nervous energy. Around noon as he was fixing up some dinner, he heard the door go to his chalet and breathed out a sigh of relief when his mother walked back into the room. Hugging her he fixed her a bowl and they sat in silence.

"Was your errand successful?" Ash asked curious.

"It was" Delia said "I managed to deliver it in time. Charizard was an enormous help."

"Good" Ash said "I've been meaning to ask you, how are you doing after seeing Dad the other night? Are you ok?"

"I'm doing ok" she said smiling at her son's concern "it was nice to see him again, even if it was on the TV."

"We have a similar battle style, don't we?" Ash said chuckling "it was only watching him that I realised it."

"You do but that's because you have a similar outlook on Pokémon training as a whole" Delia replied.

"Gary could do with watching that match" Ash observed "Blue was incredible."

"There's a reason he's still Champion a decade later" Delia said wryly "you would do well not to underestimate him. Red was his biggest rival for a reason Ash."

"I know" he said, "I can see how foolish it was to think I'd win the league and then just beat him without trying."

"You were blinded by ambition to find out any information about Red" Delia said, "and while that's not always a bad thing I fear it would have hurt you if he had beaten you."

"I still believe he knows something" Ash said, "I just don't know what."

"I have doubts myself, but we may never know" Delia replied as she gathered their dishes and washed them "Oh, before I forget. I happened to bump into that girl you faced in the last match and her mother today. Nia, was it? Anyway, they seem like really nice people, and I may have invited them to join me in the finalist's family box on Sunday. I hope you don't mind?"

"You invited Nia and her mum to sit with you?" Ash asked confused blinking.

"Yes" Delia said simply.

"Ok" Ash said uncertainly "I've never met her mum and I've only met Nia twice so…"

"Then that's sorted then" Delia said pottering off leaving Ash confused.

"Your mum is up to something" Pikachu said looking at where Delia had left.

"So, it wasn't just me then?" Ash asked, "I thought I was imagining things."

"Nope" Pikachu said, "do you think she's trying to set you up?"

"I dunno" Ash said suddenly feeling panicked "is she?"

"I've no idea Ash" Pikachu said laughing "don't forget, she could be your future wife."

"Arse" Ash said calming down as he left Pikachu laughing on the counter to go and sulk in front of the TV.

Later that evening Joanne walked in with Karl and sat down at the counter facing Ash. "Now, we've just received word that tomorrow you're due to have a press conference in front of the media about your upcoming battle and all that entails. So, we're going to go over what questions they may ask and what your response would be. Remember, you don't just represent the Ketchum family but the Silph one too."

"I'm aware" Ash said irritated "but if I get asked a stupid question I will respond in kind."

"Yeah, well you can't" Jo said all business "this final is not just about you. What you say or do tomorrow will reflect on everything and everyone that's helped you reach this stage."

"And yet it's my mum, Sam, myself and my Pokémon that have got me here" Ash said looking straight at her "Silph did not participate in my battles, my Pokémon did. Silph did not sit up with me late at night on my journey, my Pokémon and my mum did. I'm starting to get the impression that Silph think they've done more for me than they actually have. Do not forget that I would have reached this point with or without them." He said standing up and leaving Jo to sigh and shake her head.

"He's right" Karl said making her look up at him sharply "I love you very much Joanne, but Silph haven't really done anything for Ash yet apart from help with his books. You've coached him on interviews but that's something he would have figured out eventually anyway, his clothes have been destroyed by the artist that was originally sent and then he was then forced to wear it in a battle humiliating him and then got an earful for suggesting the artist was wrong. Silph has not been on his journey with him. They appeared to reap the benefits as soon as he appeared at the league."

Joanne just looked at him angrily, gathered up the papers and stormed out leaving Karl to shake his head.

"Rule number one" Delia's voice shouted from in the lounge "always back your girlfriend first. Even if she's wrong."

Chuckling Karl stood up and made his way to the nearest flower shop. It seemed he had some grovelling to do.

The next day Ash and Pikachu went for a wander to get some lunch. The interview was scheduled for 3pm in the leagues main conference centre so they had plenty of time. Despite his blow up at Joanne Ash knew that her heart was in the right place. How he conducted himself in an interview reflected on how good she was at her job, so he understood that. It still irked him that they thought they could control him. At 2:30 he made his way to the League and walked into the reception where he was quickly ushered into the side room where John was being coached by someone about the upcoming interview. Ash just sat down and grabbed a magazine and began to read ignoring the chatter around him. This was all nonsense to him, and he'd be glad when it was over with.

At 2:55 John and himself were led into the media room where Charles and Blue were already seated. Taking his offered chair Ash sat down and waited silently for the thing to begin.

"Hello all" Charles said smiling "I'm glad you all could make it. Today is the traditional media interview session where you get to ask our finalists their thoughts on the upcoming event. As John is the returning participant, he will answer the first question and we'll alternate from there, so without further ado can we have our first question?"

"Yes, John how are you feeling now you've reached the final?"

"Happy" he said "we reached our target goal of making the final four. Anything after that was a bonus."

"Ash, how do you feel?"

"The same really" Ash said "our goal was the final eight given we are rookies in this tournament. I knew we had the potential to reach the final though."

"Can you tell us anything about the gameplan for the final?"

"No" John said.

"Ditto" Ash said before he could be asked "daft question really. Every advantage counts in a final."

"You certainly have that" John murmured looking up at the ceiling but was easily picked up by the microphone.

"What did he mean by that?"

"No idea" Ash said shaking his head even though he suspected what the issue was. Was John really going to pull the same stunt twice, this time in front of the National media?

"It couldn't be because it is rumoured that you have two Legendaries on your roster, would it?"

"Who says I have Legendaries?" Ash asked looking confused.

"We can't reveal our source Mr Ketchum."

"But how would you know that?" Ash asked leaning forward looking interested "the only people privy to that information would be the people I'm facing or faced, the Elite Four, Champion and President. Now I know Richie wouldn't have said anything, neither would Nia so that leaves my opponent in the final and the people in charge."

"It was not us" Blue said leaning forwards looking sternly at the reporter.

"Again, we can't reveal our sources."

"Of course, you can't" Ash said leaning back "but I can start an investigation which I will do. I already have my suspicions though."

"So, you DO have Legendaries? How is that fair to John?"

"I never said that" Ash replied.

"It's not" John said leaning forward "I lodged a formal protest, but it was ignored."

"No, it wasn't ignored" Ash said before Charles could "both Lance and Mr Goodshow acknowledged your protest in front of the others at the last 16 meeting. We came up with a solution and you recanted your protest."

"Banning me from using my strongest Pokémon was not a fair deal" he said furiously.

"And yet it's precisely what you planned to do to me" Ash said smirking.

"It gives you a clear advantage over anyone else and is very unfair" John said angrily.

"As I said then either be a better trainer and come up with a strategy or go home" Ash said leaning back looking smug.

"As you can see this tournament has been rigged in Ash's favour" John said to the crowd, "it smacks of nepotism."

"How?" Ash said looking confused leaning forwards again "my father went missing over a decade ago fighting Team Rocket, so his influence has been precisely zero. Blue has his own son to favour and has never once trained me in any way. I got here on merit by beating the eight strongest gyms in Kanto, without using Legendaries I might add. I met Mr Goodshow about two months ago and haven't talked to him in person outside of the draws since so his influence has been exactly nil. I have also beaten every opponent on the way to the final without using said alleged Legendaries so, I ask again, how?"

John just sat there in furious silence while Ash shook his head. "As you can see the conspiracy is all inside his own head. But I will be interested to find out where you got your information though" he finished looking at the reporter.

"Yes, as would we" Blue said leaning forward "but can we get back onto talking about the battle at hand?"

"No" John said standing up and looking at Ash "bring those two Legendaries. It will make my victory all the sweeter when I show the world how pathetic you really are."

In response Ash took out his Pokédex and pressed a few buttons and held it against the microphone.

"My name is Dexter, and I am the Pokédex for Junior Professor Ash Ketchum. Accessing database. Trainer Ash Ketchum, ID number AK191298 Collective Battles 994 Wins 993, Losses 1"

"As you can see, I'm here on merit" Ash said standing up and looking straight at him "The one loss wasn't even a battle, more of a test by the gym leader to show me what can be possible with the right training so since I left Pewter City 13 months ago I have yet to lose. And I certainly won't lose to you." Ash then sat back down and faced the silent reporters as John stormed off leaving Blue and Charles to shake their head at his unprofessional attitude.

"Why does he have such a problem with you?"

"I faced him once before nearly a year ago now at the tournament in Vermillion City." Ash said "and he lost because he forgot about the limit on moves used. Ever since then he has accused me of being lucky or cheating despite it not being my fault he couldn't count properly. He's a victim in his mind. It's quite sad really and I'd pity him if he wasn't such an arsehole."

"I have one last question" someone said from the back "who do you think will win the third-place playoff tomorrow?"

"I watched Ashley fight John yesterday, and she was very unlucky not to win" Ash said "Johns Dragonair is very strong, but my battle with Nia was the best battle I've ever had so I'm torn between the two. I know this though, whoever wins it will deserve it as the final four have been outstanding and any of us could be sitting here right now. I'm fortunate enough to have won. If I had to pick, I'd say Nia, simply because I've battled her, and I haven't battled Ashley. I'd love to be given the chance though."

"And that about wraps this one up folks" Charles said, "rest assured the final two battles will be great contests and I wish them all the luck in the world."

Leaving to the side room again he sat back down on the couch waiting to be debriefed. John it seemed had already left before he got back but Ash really wasn't concerned. An angry opponent was an unpredictable opponent, but it also made for quick decisions that could cost you a battle.

"You, ok?" Blue asked sitting opposite him.

"Yeah" Ash said "really, I am. John has just made this battle easier because I'm already inside his head. I know not to underestimate him as he got here on merit, but he overestimates himself. And that's his weakness."

"You could be right" Blue said looking over his shoulder at Charles who was just coming back in.

"Well, that was thoroughly unprofessional of John" Charles said irritated "well done Ash for keeping your temper in check. He made the battle Sunday slightly easier wouldn't you say Blue?"

"I would" he said agreeing "but as Ash just said he did get here on merit and would be a worthy winner."

Charles simply grunted as he put his notes back in his briefcase. "I'll be glad for Monday to come around" he said running a hand over his suddenly tired looking face "this is always exhausting, and we have to do it all again in Johto in two months' time. I've been considering getting an assistant or partner to take over day to day running of the league. I'm getting too old for this."

"Do you have anyone in mind?" Blue asked.

"Yes, there's a new developer that's currently set up his own tournament in conjunction with the league" Charles said "His names Scott. He created the Battle Frontier."

"Oh, I met Brandon back in Granpa Canyon" Ash said recalling him "he mentioned the Battle Frontier as he's the final person to go through before you're eligible for the tournament. It seems fun."

"Aye that's him" Charles said "he funded the entire thing himself, comes from old money and has easily recouped what he stumped up. So, there's him. I have another in mind too but I'm not sure about him yet."

"It's Giovanni, isn't it?" Ash asked surprising Blue and making Charles chuckle.

"Yes, it is" Charles said "despite his association with Team Rocket he's been incredible at promoting the league. And by rights he should have replaced me years ago as he had many wonderful ideas that I've used, with his permission of course that has helped make this the most competitive league. Not the best as they all have their qualities but the standard this year has been fantastic."

"Once we reached the final 16 that is" Blue said ruefully "before then it was bad."

"Isn't that the truth" Charles said standing up "anyway gents, I have a meeting to go to. Blue I'll see you Sunday for the ceremony, Ash, I'll see you there for the presentation trophy whichever one it is."

"Yeah, I have to be going too" Blue said, "date with Laura tonight."

"I have a date with my Pokémon" Ash said laughing and leaving with Blue before separating. When he reached his chalet, he walked in and found Joanne and his mum chatting at the counter. Ignoring them he went to his room and did nothing but research for his next paper. He was writing about Legendaries and their mating habits for Professor Oak.

The next day flew by and soon Ash was sat in the stands ready for Nias match. Sitting down next to his mum and someone his mum seemed to know he watched the procession and leaned forward when Nia came out of the tunnel looking determined.

"She looks confident" Ash said, "it's a shame she couldn't reach the final."

"And face you instead of John?" the lady asked.

Looking at her he had the strange feeling he had seen her before. "You look familiar, but I don't know where I'd have seen you. But anyway yes, she's been fantastic in this tournament. I kept an eye on who could face me and apart from Richie and John there was only Nia that I felt could possibly reach the final. It was just their bad luck they were drawn in my bracket."

"So, you've been watching Nia, eh?" his mum said almost too casually.

"Yes" Ash said giving her a look that said he knew what she was doing "she's very gifted when it comes to battling. I just hope she keeps her head this time."

"What do you mean?" the lady asked.

"Against me she had a great strategy that had me beat" Ash said shocking her "she was unlucky that her Clefable took herself out, but she also took out Pikachu. I struggled to come up with a counter for her strategy. Pikachu was the one Pokémon I had that she feared because of her Vaporeon but with him out of the battle and despite going into the half losing she should have at least forced me to my final Pokémon. Two of my final three were at a disadvantage to her Vaporeon because of its ice and water moves but I never needed them because she came out from the break full of doubts. She was relying on Clefable acting as a sweeper and when she wasn't available lost her head. She called out silly commands that I exploited and got caught out. She has a Venusaur so she should know how to counter them. She forgot because she doubted herself and that's why she lost. She'll hopefully have learned from that though."

Around him people were listening in to his conversation and many nodded along having been there for the match and seen what Ash was saying. Sarah listened with interest at his analysis. It came across as cold and calculated but it was more clinical. He told facts and backed them up with reasons. Watching on they listened as the referee gave out the instructions and the competitors walked to their respective box. When half time reached Nia was up three-nil but had two heavily weakened Pokémon.

"She's doing very well" Delia said "I can see why you'd think she deserved to get to the final. Three-nil up at halfway is very good."

"She's three-two up" Ash corrected her to the surprise of the crowd around them who had been listening to his running commentary throughout the battle. "The scoreboard is deceiving. It may say three-nil but the two Pokémon she's used have taken serious damage and a fresh Pokémon could easily take them out with the right strategy. That's the mindset she needs to have and cover it accordingly."

"I see what you mean" Sarah said, "do you think she'll win?"

"Yes" Ash said simply watching as Ashley and Nia came back onto the field "as long as she keeps her head. Oh, Clefable is a good choice here, particularly against Ashleys Kadabra. If she beats Kadabra I can't see her losing."

"And there we have it folks. After a gruelling match the winner of the third-place trophy goes to Nia!"

"Excuse me" Sarah said looking very happy "I'll speak to you soon Delia. Nice meeting you Ash."

"Bye" Ash said looking confused as the lady left down the steps and disappeared into the walkway "she seemed like a nice lady. How do you two know each other?"

"Ash" Delia said laughing "I only met her Thursday. But you're right, she is a lovely person. I believe you know her daughter."

"Do I?" Ash asked confused. Delia merely pointed to the field where Nia had sprinted to the lady in question and hugged her causing Ash to choke on air "she's Nia's mum? And you let me ramble on in front of her."

Laughing Delia pulled a spluttering Ash out of the chair and made their way out of the stadium. Delia had booked a table at a restaurant for them, and they were sat talking about what they were going to do after the tournament when a voice from behind him asked "can we join you?"

"Of course," Delia said watching Ash freeze up when he recognised the voice. Not looking he sighed and moved over so Nia could sit next to him.

"So, what were we talking about?" Sarah asked her eyes full of mirth.

"Plans for after the tournament" Ash said "I have a busy few months to be honest. My house is due to be completed next week and then a week or so later the staff will be joining me to help out. After that I have a convention to prepare for with Professor Oak and the Board for Outstanding Beauty. We'll be discussing getting funding for various areas I've been to in Kanto that I feel need protecting which should lead up to Christmas. After that my plans are up in the air. I've been considering just going away for a few months to train but it will depend on the outcome of tomorrows match."

"You'll win" Nia said confidently "we know it."

Ash just smiled.

"So, what's this about your house?" Sarah asked confused as the began to eat their chosen meal "aren't you a little young to own a house?"

"Oh, I won't be living there full time until I'm at least 15" Ash said making his mum smile "but I've had a house built just outside of Pallet Town. It cost a fortune, but it doubles as a conservationist place now and will be given that status hopefully in the October meeting. I was given the land under the conditions I helped preserve certain species of Pokémon and animals that are on the verge of extinction. It's my property but I'm doing what I can to help out. So, in a few weeks when it's finished having works done specialists from the government and the Beauty places will be visiting and setting up shop in the outhouse to carry out tests and whatever they do to preserve things. When I'm 16 it will be my job to take over from the caretakers and continue their work."

"Sounds like you've got your work cut out for you" Nia commented.

"Nothing worthwhile is easy" Ash said smiling "and this is very worthwhile. You should both come and visit one day. Your Venusaur would love the place as my Venusaur and mum designed the garden and the grounds. It has a huge lake that Vaporeon would love, I'm sure Blastoise would be fine with it."

"I'd love to" Nia said gushing "it sounds idyllic."

"It really is" Ash said.

"I see what you mean" Sarah said to Delia quietly.

"I hope I'm right" Delia said sadly watching the two interact. "I hope for both their sakes."

The Next Day

"Welcome one and all to the seventieth Pokémon League Final!" the announcer shouted over the P.A system. We have just under an hour before the big event but before then I'd like to present to you the Kanto Gym leaders. Sadly there are only 15 here today due to the untimely death of Cinnabar Leader Blaine earlier this year."

Ash watched the procession happen on the TV in front of him in his room at the League building. They were fully furnished complete with an en-suite toilet and very luxurious. Ash was as relaxed as he could be as he watched the opening ceremony and listened as the coverage team gave their own analysis of the battles that had led up to this moment.

"You have to feel that Ash is the favourite here. He's lost two Pokémon in the entire league and hasn't looked out of his depth."

"I'd have to disagree. Nerves have got to play a part in this. John has been here before, so he knows how to deal with the pressure whereas Ash hasn't. I feel John is the slight favourite because of that."

"Whoever wins will fully deserve it. I don't think there is a favourite really. Yes, Ash hasn't been pushed and that has to be taken into account, but Nia's unconventional strategy flummoxed him, so we've seen a crack in his armour. John on the other hand has had to come from behind in the last two matches and has just squeaked over the line. The fact remains though that it's an even platform, they both start with six Pokémon and all six could very well be used from both sides. In a final anything can happen."

Ash stood and turned the TV off. On reflection they were all right. But that wouldn't matter today. A knock on the door disturbed him and opening it he saw the league official gesture for him to follow. Making sure he had everything Ash walked after him and waited in the tunnel. Beside him John joined him, and they both stared ahead in silence.

"Ladies and Gentlemen. Please give a huge ovation for the two finalists. Ash Ketchum and John Dickson." Charles Goodshows voice rang out. Taking a deep breath that was mirrored by John Ash walked forwards to a wall of noise. 50,000 people all there to see him and John face off from each other. The noise was incredible and very nearly overwhelmed Ash's senses. Ash nearly pinched himself but stopped himself from doing so. It was one thing to see this on the TV, it was quite another to be the one participating.

"John, Ash. You two have done something very few people have managed to do. You've reached the final of the Kanto League Indigo Tournament. Whatever happens today just know you should be very proud of your accomplishments. However there can only be one winner and today the Flame of Moltres will go out for another year. If you would, shake hands and wish each other the best."

Ash turned to John and saw the disgust on his face as he grasped Ash's hand. "I just want you to know that when this is over you will have proven to the world that you don't belong here and me winning was inevitable."

"You just don't get it do you?" Ash said releasing his hand and tilting his head to look at his opponent "It's quite sad really. So much promise, all to fall at the final hurdle. I hope you're ready for this John because after today you'll become a footnote in history, an answer in a quiz to the question 'who did Pokémon Master Ash Ketchum beat for his first championship' and that's all you'll ever be."

"Yes well" Charles said regaining his voice "Referee if you would, I wish you the best of luck...oh my"

Everyone turned to face Charles who was gazing up at the opposite side of the stadium on the roof and as a collective there was a huge gasp that rang around the stadium. Ash and John followed suit and Ash heard John gasp too. There on the rafters were the three Legendary Kanto birds looking down at them.

Chapter 43: Chapter 43

Chapter Text

Chapter 43- The Final

Delia had brought Nia and Sarah up to the box to watch the match with her. As she walked in, she greeted everybody else that was in there and to Nia's amazement the entire Elite Four and Kanto gym leaders were seated watching the arena through the huge opening the entire length of the wall. She squeaked a hello to Lorelei who had greeted her and felt like she would faint from the experience. If someone would have told her even a month ago that she would be standing talking to the Elite Four she would have laughed in their faces.

Delia, seeing how starstruck she was moved her gently to her seat where she seemed to have gone into shock.

"Mrs Ketchum, do you know who they are?" she asked quietly.

"I should do seeing as I've known them personally for over a decade now" Delia said laughing "Just relax sweetie, they won't bite."

"Hey, I might" Giovanni said moving over to greet them and give his sister a kiss on the cheek. Their relationship had been strained since she found out about Silver, but she knew if the roles were reversed, she'd likely do the same for Ash and had slowly been coming to terms with it. Hearing Silver had targeted him for death had also played a big part in her reconciling with him. She had little family as it was.

"Not helpful brother of mine" Delia said shaking her head.

"It was" Lance said coming over and saying hello to Delia.

"How's Michelle, why isn't she here?" Delia asked looking around.

"Ah well, don't tell anyone as this is a secret but she's just found out she's pregnant so she's at home with her mum" Lance said scratching his head ruefully.

"Oh, that's wonderful news" Delia said giving him a hug "I'll give her a ring tomorrow when all this has settled. Oh, here comes Ash now. I'm ever so proud of him."

Listening to Charles shout his name as a finalist was one of the proudest moments of her life. And then everything was silent. Ignoring the gasps from the side of her she leaned over the balcony to try and listen.

The world watched on as the camera panned from Charles Goodshow who was giving a speech to the rafters where for the first time in living memory all three Kanto Legendary birds had shown themselves willingly to humans as they sat perched on the top of the stadium. Throughout the world people gasped in excitement, shock and awe. The crowd in the stadium was utterly silent. That was until they watched on with dread as they all descended to the stadium floor. They had seen pictures of the birds before, but they didn't do them justice concerning the sheer size of them all and to see them towering over Ash and John was quite scary.

Ash wondered why they had appeared here, so he stepped forward ignoring the gasps from the crowd.

"Er hi my Lord and Ladies. What can we do for you?" Ash said.

"Awfully impertinent of you to ask, no?" Lady Articuno asked telepathically causing the crowd to again gasp as they heard every word she said. The crowd at home though just heard squawks which in a silent stadium sounded angry.

"Well given you're interrupting the final of the Kanto League I felt it prudent to ask" Ash said cheekily.

"Impertinent indeed" Lord Zapdos said laughingly "why should we need an excuse to travel around our region? Do we need permission?"

"Of course, you don't" Ash said confused "but you've never been seen together in public in over a hundred years. The closest anyone has come to seeing you all together is at the festival in the Orange Islands and even then, you stay separated."

"True" Lady Moltres said, "but we were instructing Lord Zapdos in his new role after he ascended and took his father's place."

Mutters rang out around the stadium, Legendaries can die?

Ash clutched the scar over his heart, the reminder of what happened to the previous Lord Zapdos. "Of course," Ash said quietly "I was going to travel after this tournament to visit you but while you are here Lord Zapdos, I wish to offer my condolences to you. Your father's sacrifice has left me with a debt I feel I can never fully repay."

"It is already repaid Chosen One by your deeds the day it happened" Lord Zapdos said sternly "my father would not have chosen your life over his needlessly and to suggest otherwise is to do a disservice to his memory. He died so that you might live again."

"Peace Zapdos" Lady Articuno said soothingly "that's not what he meant, and you know it."

"I'm aware" Lord Zapdos said looking at her and then back at Ash "but he needs to understand that things do not happen by chance. Just as your birth was pre-destined so was the death of every single one of Arceus' creations. And it is up to the individual how to choose their end. My father chose his well. You bear a burden very few have ever done, and you carry it well."

"Thank you" Ash said quietly "I still don't think I deserve it."

"You don't" Lady Moltres said sternly "but that is not for you to decide. Life is a gift that only usually comes around once for people. You have been gifted a second chance. Use it well. Now, if you don't mind, we have to be getting on. We shall be watching from up on high, these games are a celebration of my everlasting fire after all." Shaking out her magnificent wings she rose into the air.

"She never lets us forget it" Lady Articuno said mirroring her sister and ascending to the roof where she perched to watch. Lord Zapdos however lowered his beak and placed the tip on the place Ash's scar was.

"We will see you soon young Chosen, of that I have no doubt" he said before he too rose with a crackle of his wings and settled on the roof too.

"Ash died?" Nia asked shocked.

"Yes" Delia said tightly not wanting to talk about it.

"But, how?" she asked, "shouldn't he be you know, dead?"

"He only told Sam and I about it and we agreed to leave it be." Delia said to the silent box "Lord Zapdos owed Ash after he saved his life at the Power Plant during the incident nearly a year ago. So, in exchange for Ash's life, he gave up his own. Do not ask me how, I have no idea but Ash now has a lightning bolt scar over his heart as a memento. That's all I will say on the matter. I don't like remembering my son died, especially after Porta Vista."

Sam nodded at Delia's words "It's not up for discussion." he said pointedly.

The box was utterly silent to that bit of news. After all, how do you start a conversation after that?

Taking a deep breath Ash walked back to where the podium was and waited. It took a few moments for Charles to realise where he was before remembering what they were all here for.

"Yes, well after all that excitement it's clear that this final took on a more special meaning. So, who's ready for a fantastic battle?"

The crowd started to come alive once more as they remembered what they were here for. As the referee replaced Charles John joined Ash and looked up at him.

"Welcome Ash, welcome John. Now for the rules. This will be a 6 on 6 battle on the neutral field, and we will have a winner. In the event of a draw the first Pokémon to get back to their feet and stay upright for ten seconds will be declared the winner. It has been decided a new format is going to be in place for this final. Up until now it has been a standard knockout match with substitutions allowed, that bit hasn't changed. What has changed is the move limit. That has been removed. When one trainer loses three Pokémon there will be a thirty-minute break but there will be no field change during that time. If I declare a time out for any reason, then that will be enforced, and any infraction will see you forfeit your Pokémon. Is that understood? Very well. Gentlemen, please take your places in your boxes and when I say so release your first Pokémon. I wish you both the best of luck."

"You hear that Ketchum? No getting lucky with the move rule in this one." John said sneering.

"Yeah, because we all know how hard it is for you to remember the number 4" Ash replied before walking away to his box laughing. Taking his place, he grabbed a Pokéball from his belt and got ready to throw it. John in his box mirrored him. Getting the nod from the referee they both threw their ball at the same time.

"Machamp vs Tauros. Begin."

"Earthquake" Ash said.

"Match it" John shouted as his Pokémon raised its legs and delivered its own Earthquake. In the middle of the field where the attacks collided the ground began to crack and push against each other.

"Get close Machamp." Ash said as the tremors died down and the ground settled back to being level.

"Ok, Take Down, full speed." John shouted seeing he would have to use Tauros' physical strength.

"Get ready, brace yourself. Now, Cross Chop" Machamp was more than ready for this. Ash had deliberately chosen him for this match-up because he knew Tauros didn't have a good ranged move, or at least not one that had been used before. It relied on its speed and strength a lot which were easy to counter when you train with Pikachu. As soon as Tauros got close Machamp spun away with his arms glowing and as it went past, he smashed them into Tauros who went flying off to the side.

"And Machamp delivers a brutal Cross Chop to the charging Tauros. That attack had to hurt."

"Don't let up Machamp, nothing is free today, Brick Break and don't let up." Machamp rushed over to where Tauros was getting up and delivered a powerful punch to its face sending it flying again. This was repeated twice before a red beam hit Tauros confusing Machamp as it disappeared.

"And John recalls his stricken Tauros. It took significant damage due to a mistake John made. Who will he call out now?"

"Electabuzz, you're up. Thunderbolt and charge forwards and use Thunderpunch"

"Machamp use Flamethrower to counter and move forwards too and use Brick Break" Ash shouted. He didn't know what John was thinking trying to get into close combat with Machamp. Soon enough they both began trying to punch the other, but Electabuzz was deceptively quick and slipped under several attacks. Machamp did the same but was confused that he hadn't received a command for a while.

Ash watched on a bit confused. Was he hoping for Static to happen? Possibly. Was he hoping for Machamp to tire out? Unlikely given how much he trained. Finally, he spotted something he could exploit. Electabuzz tended to dodge to the right which left it open slightly.

"Machamp use Flamethrower down to your left" Ash shouted as Electabuzz dodged. Finally, Machamp thought as he felt the fire burn in his throat and spewed it out directly into Electabuzz's face causing it to reel back in shock. "Earthquake" and quicker than before Machamp smashed the ground and sent the tremors at the grounded electric type where out grit its teeth as it was thrown around the ground.

"And Ash once again pulls off a fantastic combination of moves to get the upper hand on Johns second Pokémon. John is in a world of trouble here."

"Cross Chop and don't let up." Ash shouted Machamp raced forward.

"Thunder" John shouted seeing his opening and as it was getting up his Pokémon let out a huge bolt of lightning which struck Machamp and made him miss his mark as he skidded to a halt feeling pain as electricity coursed through his body.

"Punch the ground." Ash shouted confusing everyone who was watching. It soon became clear though as the electricity flowed through Machamp and into the ground. Machamp still felt pain, but it lessened significantly now it had somewhere other than his body to go. Ash observed his Pokémon and then his opponents. Electabuzz had taken some serious damage from Machamp before hitting back but Machamps conditioning was better, and it started to show as Machamp was able to get to his feet and take the attack as it lessened in potency.

"Cross Chop" Ash shouted and despite still taking an attack he raced forward and smashed all four arms in the electric type causing the attack to stop and it to black out. Panting Machamp made sure he had won before walking back to his side before dropping to one knee. While Pikachu's electricity was stronger it was still a very strong move he had taken, and he certainly felt it.

"And John loses his first Pokémon of the final. Machamps attacks were just too strong for Electabuzz in the end, but it dealt some serious damage to his opponent. Did it create the opening to level the score?"

"How are you doing Machamp?" Ash called out. Receiving a thumbs up back Ash nodded and waited for his next opponent.

"And John sends out his Pidgeot." The announcer shouted. Ash seeing this recalled Machamp and sent out Pikachu.

"And Ash recalls his Machamp to give it some rest and calls out his starter Pikachu. This should be an interesting one."

"Thunderbolt" Ash said.

"Too easy, dodge it Pidgeot" John shouted as his bird pirouetted around the attack and the bolt flew off harmlessly into the sky.

"Again" Ash said. "And stop when I tell you."

John shook his head, Pidgeot didn't even need to hear him say anything as she did the same again and danced around the attack.

"That arrogance will cost you Ash" John taunted "Pidgeot use Hurricane and make it a big one."

Pidgeot flew up higher into the sky to evade another lightning bolt and looked down at the mouse who was only a pinprick from her height. Slowly she started to flap her wings in powerful thrusts, gradually getting quicker as her attack took shape and inside a minute the field had turned into a giant tornado. She had never done one this big before, mainly because there was no area she could go to to practice and be safe but she knew the Leagues Alakazam had it covered so she gave it everything she had and after a minute she stopped and panted with exertion.

"Pi" Ash shouted as the attack started "let it hit, close your eyes and just ride it out. You know what to do here."

Pikachu knew that he couldn't avoid the attack as the stadium was closed in and the field was too small, so he saw the point the tornado started and did something that utterly baffled the crowd and his opponent. He dove into the Hurricane and let himself be buffeted about by the high winds. It was incredibly powerful, and Pikachu felt every bit of the attack but from inside Pikachu sent a blue ball of light flying into the sky which was covered by the tornado.

"That's the end of your rat" John shouted with glee. Suddenly he stopped though as he felt a speck of rain hit his face. Wiping it off confused he looked up to see clouds appear from nowhere and more rain start to fall. The wind eventually started to die down in the torrential downpour and he saw his Pidgeot appear in front of him soaked to the bone with water. He watched as the winds disappeared and were shocked to find Pikachu appear walking slowly towards them with little arcs of electricity flash across his body. There were obvious signs that Pidgeots move had done a lot of damage as Pikachu was covered in little scrapes but the fact he was walking forwards with a purpose scared John.

"Now" Ash shouted over the rain "lets see how good your Pokémon really is at dodging. Pikachu, fire Thunderbolts into the sky."

"Don't let it" John said wondering why the attacks weren't aimed at his Pokémon. "Air Slash"

Pikachu dodged the moves as he continuously sent bolts of lightning up into the sky and soon enough there were rumblings happening overhead. Looking up Ash gauged the situation. One or two more would do. "One more Pi."

"Sky Attack" John shouted knowing Ash was planning something, and his Pokémon rose into the air and started to glow as a bolt flashed past her. Ignoring it she charged her attack and waited to dive.

"Pi, make sure you're directly underneath her." Ash said smiling at the way the battle was going.

"If he wants to present himself as a target then so be it. Pidgeot, full power Sky Attack" John shouted.

"What is he doing? Sarah asked from beside Delia and her daughter in the box.

"He told me once how he used this in a fight for his life the day after he started his journey" Delia said, "I hope Pidgeot lives."

"Lives?" Nia said, "Pikachu will get knocked out if he lets her hit."

"Pidgeot has already lost this one" Delia said making the rest turn to her and look at her questioningly "I suggest you all watch it because when he challenges you this is the kind of situation you'll be put in and you'll be powerless to stop it. The main reason Ash wins all his battles is because he comes up with the craziest strategies."

"Two feet to your left Pi" Ash shouted, and his Pokémon obeyed as the Pidgeot started to freefall glowing brightly. When she was thirty feet from Pikachu the crowd gasped in fright as a massive lightning bolt descended from the sky and zeroed in on Pikachu due to his lightningrod ability. Unfortunately for Pidgeot she was in the way and before her or John knew it, she was smashed into by the massive Thunder attack Pikachu had created which increased in strength due to gravity helping and Pikachu being directly underneath. At the last-minute Pikachu dodged out of the way and the bolt redirected itself to Pikachu but the damage had already been done to the poor bird. It would likely take weeks before she could fly again.

"I don't believe it" Blue said quietly "he crafted a Thunder from inside the Hurricane. Does Pikachu know Rain Dance?"

"Yes" Delia said smiling "I'm surprised you figured it out so quickly."

"Red did the same thing to me" Blue said leaning back remembering the fight he had a few years after his championship match "he put Blastoise out of action for a month with that attack."

"And Ash's Pikachu pulls out another win for him after a devastating Thunder attack."

"Ref" Ash shouted "I'm ok with a delay while John gives his Pidgeot to Nurse Joy. She needs urgent care."

The referee nodded as John raced down the stairs and made his way over to the booth where Joy was standing. Taking the Pokémon, she teleported out using a league Alakazam leaving John to make the trip back up the steps. He wouldn't admit it but that had left him feeling very shaky. From a winning position he had lost badly.

Taking a deep breath, he brought out another Pokéball "Tauros you're back up." The delay had helped him as the rain clouds had started to disappear leaving the sky to become the blue it was.

"Pi, back here. Machamp you're up again" Ash shouted. John gritted his teeth as he was banking on Pikachu staying out. It needed to be defeated, hopefully before he brought out his Dragonair. At least Pidgeot had done some damage though he thought.

"And we're back to how we started" the announcer shouted, "both Pokémon have taken some serious damage since the opening fight."

"Earthquake" Ash shouted.

"Match it" John shouted.

"Get in close Machamp and use Brick Break" Ash called out.

"Take Down" John said as his Pokémon began charging.

"And in a stunning case of Dejavu both Pokémon replicate how they started their first bout."

"Flamethrower" Ash shouted.

"Earthquake" John said smiling at Ash's first mistake of the match. Machamp was stopped in his tracks from attacking as the Earthquake hit sending him sprawling onto his knees. Looking up he just managed to get his hands over his face before Tauros smashed into him. Gritting his teeth, he slid backwards holding onto Tauros' horns, but they were getting closer and closer to the wall. With five feet to go Machamp amazed them with his agility all by flipping over Tauros and letting it crash headfirst into the wall. Machamp was reaching his limit and knew Tauros was too. Ash and John had seen it also. Machamp had trotted away to give itself some space to recover as Tauros pulled its horns from the wall and looked directly at his opponent and snorted. Lowering its head, it started charging again in anger at Machamp still being up on its feet. As it got closer Machamp braced itself.

"Now Machamp, flip over again but this time use Earthquake as you land." Ash shouted.

"Tauros stop and use Earthquake yourself" John shouted seeing the danger his Pokémon was in. As Machamp went sailing over its head one of its horns caught Machamp on the thigh sending them both sprawling with the momentum. They both got up at the same time and used the same attack which shook the arena with the power making them both fall to their knees. The battle had taken its toll on Tauros and Machamp though as they were still suffering from their other matchups and as one, they both fell forward.

"Machamp and Tauros are unable to battle" the referee shouted "As John has lost three Pokémon to Ash's one, we will now take a thirty-minute break.

Recalling his Pokémon Ash walked down the tunnel and into his room where he let his last four Pokémon out. Pikachu had already jumped onto the couch to have a snooze and try and recover from the Pidgeot. The others watched the TV with interest as highlights played showing the first half of the match.

"We're up 3-1" Ash said after seeing Machamp go down. "we're doing really well so far but he has one Pokémon I don't know about yet. So, we need to be prepared for anything. We have twenty minutes left to relax so do so."

"Ash is doing really well" Nia commented as they all moved to the buffet table and then onto tables that were provided for seating. Looking at the TV on the screen they watched the half time entertainment of a band performing "he's halfway there."

"He is" Bruno said wandering over to sit next to Delia with Hailee on his hip. Sitting down he adjusted her, so she was facing the TV watching the show.

"I'm surprised you've let her be seen" Delia said cooing in her face making her giggle knowing how secretive Lorelei and Bruno were over their child.

"We decided it was time to let people know that Lorelei is my wife, and we have a child." Bruno said bouncing her on his lap "to be honest Delia we were both getting fed up with people propositioning us, that and the stories about Lorelei not knowing who the father is because of the many one-night stands people have claimed she had with them really hurt her. She didn't deserve that, she's not a whore, so here we are. Hopefully now the stories will disappear."

"Who on earth let that be published?" Sarah said outraged forgetting who she was talking to "Bloody media. They have no shame. Ignore the bastards."

Laughing Bruno just carried on bouncing Hailee before his wife joined them with a plate of food and began feeding him as his hands were full.

"Do you want me to take her?" Nia asked, "just so you can eat."

"Sure" Bruno said handing her over and watching his daughter become fascinated with her lip and nose rings and try to grab them with her tiny hands.

"She's getting so big" Lorelei said smiling at her daughter "I can't believe she'll be three in January."

"Three already?" Delia asked "time sure flies, eh? It doesn't seem like yesterday that Ash was learning to walk and talk."

"I feel the same with Nia" Sarah said smiling at the scene "she'll be fifteen in December. It's crazy."

"I don't believe we've been introduced" Bruno said holding out his hand "I'm Bruno, this is my wife Lorelei and my daughter Hailee. Pleased to meet you."

Laughing Sarah introduced her and her daughter who was much too busy making faces at Hailee.

"How is it we find you here?" Agatha asked stumping over and sitting down with an audible sigh.

"Nia met Ash the day before his battle, and they hit it off" Delia said "I then met them the day after the battle, and we also hit it off. And here we are."

"I'm sure you're missing something out" Agatha said gruffly giving Delia a knowing look.

"You're right" Delia said looking over at Nia making sure she was still occupied "we have suspicions that Ash found his life partner."

"Already?" Lorelei asked shocked before she continued on quietly "aren't they supposed to be 16 before their aura does that weird radar thingy?"

"How do you know that?" Delia asked shocked.

"Haliee has aura." Bruno said "Ash discovered it and has offered to train her as he doesn't trust Rota to not have an angle. He sent us his book on aura, and you sent some notes on raising a child of Aura don't forget."

"Ah" Delia said remembering "I'm afraid I did forget. Well yes ordinarily they're 16 however Ash isn't ordinary. He has masterful control of Aura, and we think it's changed his DNA makeup. I mean you only have to look at him to see he doesn't look like a normal 12-year-old. He's nearly six feet tall already, we think his aura has accelerated his growth and he's hit aural puberty already. And with it his 'radar' as you put it has already begun. I don't think he knows it yet, and I'm not going to tell him until we know for certain as it'll put a strain on their friendship that might be unnecessary."

"But you think you're right" Bruno said as Delia nodded in agreement. Turning to Sarah he continued "what's your thinking then? I mean, we have this to come in 13 years' time. It's not something I can say I'm looking forward to either."

"Why?" Lorelei asked confused "you've never mentioned this before."

"She's 3" Bruno said factually as if it explained everything "and she'll always be three."

Shaking her head she ignored Bruno and waited for Sarah to answer. "I'm unsure. I can see when they're together that they like each other, but I don't think they realise. But Nia will need to be told soon about Ash's aura because if they start dating and then his aura rejects her for someone else…well it won't be pretty."

"Ash will tell her" Delia said "I know him. He explained it to Lt Surge and his daughter when they asked months ago quite clinically, I'm told. I know Frank would love Ash to be his son in law given what he's done for electric Pokémon over the past year but Ash refuses to date because of his problem. He'll tell her before they become good friends as he knows it will hurt them both if he doesn't."

"Ladies and gentlemen, the second half is due to begin in five minutes. Please make your way to your seats."

"Looks like we're back on. I wonder how Ash is doing?" Nia said handing Hailee back to Lorelei and walking back to her seat. Sarah and Delia looked slightly concerned at her behaviour. Did she overhear them?

Walking back out to the stadium Ash took his place in his box and took deep breaths. He opened his eyes to find John had just started to climb his set of steps. Facing Ash, he sneered before turning to the referee.

"Trainers release your Pokémon."

Ash had thought about this during the break. "let's go my friend" he said as he threw his pokeball.

His big red fire dragon came out roaring to the crowd and faced his opponent with narrowed eyes.

"And it's the battle of the starter Pokémon as Ash releases his Charizard and John sends out his Blastoise."

"Interesting" Ash said. He didn't know about this Pokémon, but it was a good one to hold back until the final.

"Hydro Pump"

"Take it" Ash said shocking everyone as the second strongest water move rocketed on its way to Charizard who stood defiantly in its path. The crowd gasped in shock as the water hit Charizard who grit his teeth and waited out the attack. After thirty seconds of taking the attack Charizard looked up and glared at Blastoise who stopped in shock. There wasn't a fire type he'd been up against that had withstood a full power Hydo Pump from him.

"How was it?" Ash asked his Pokémon. In response Charizard took a front step forward unfurled his wings and roared at his opponent who took an involuntary step back and the crowd shrank back from the volume of noise "Good Flare Blitz" Ash said. Immediately the heat grew as Charizard coated itself in flames and rocketed towards Blastoise.

"Withdraw and Hydro Pump" John shouted. His Pokémon didn't acknowledge his trainer as he popped into his shell and hardened taking the full brunt of the attack sending him spinning but he came out a few seconds afterwards, steadied itself and fired another high-powered water move which hit Charizard in the back causing him to shield his tail under his wing and tank the attack roaring in irritation. Turning around he rocketed forwards again coated in flames and again Blastoise withdrew and did the same. This continued on for a few more attacks before Ash put his plan in action.

"Again, Charizard but use move 'T'" Ash said.

"If he wants to continuously get attacked then let him" John shouted, "keep building up your defence."

Blastoise nodded assured that he'd win. After all he had yet to take an attack where his opponent had taken many and while they didn't seem to be affecting him, he knew it would be no matter the illusion Charizard gave off. Withdrawing again it braced for the attack but strangely it never came and over the roar of the crowd he couldn't hear his trainer. Confused he came out of his shell and was sent flying backwards roaring in pain as he took a Thunderpunch to the face. Luckily, he had built up his defence or he would be in trouble. As it was, he got back to his feet ready to use another Hydo Pump but found his opponent had risen into the sky and out of range. He looked at his trainer who shook his head.

"We'll have to wait for him to come to us Blastoise. Any attack he uses from up there can be easily shielded against." John said and he refocused on his opponent who seemed to be building up power from up high.

"Flare Blitz" Ash shouted.

"This again Ketchum? It's your funeral. Blastoise when he descends use Hydro Pump" John shouted.

Ash just smiled. By building up power in the air away from the attacks Charizard had been able to utilise his ability of Solar Power which ramped up his fire abilities. He was still living on borrowed time due to the secondary nature of the ability, but it was minimal for now. And he had long since got past the recoil part of the move. Gravity was his aid here as he finished charging and sped wreathed in flames like a draconic meteor at his opponent. Seeing the attack headed his way he knew that Ash must have some sort of plan to make sure he hit and sure enough just as the opponents move was about to hit him he heard Ash shout "Spin" which he did instantly creating a drilling effect and causing the attack to spray away from him and he smashed into the rooted water starter carrying him along into the wall where they both broke the psychic barrier and went through the stadium wall.

Ash and John shouted in concern at that. Never in the history of the Pokémon League had a Pokémon's attack done that. Within a minute Blue had teleported onto the stadium field to help try and check on the reinforced steel part of the stadium that Charizard had ploughed through. Lance joined him on his Dragonite, but both took a step back in amazement as Charizard, covered in scratches and bleeding from one arm came walking out of the hole he had created dragging a knocked out Blastoise. Letting him drop to the ground Charizard walked forwards to the centre of the field to utter silence and turned to the Legendary birds he saw watching before facing John and snarled 'next'. Of course, John couldn't understand what he said but he got the gist and recalled his knocked out Blastoise in silence.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we're going to have a break to ascertain the strength of the structure Charizard went though. Can those over the structure please make your way in an orderly fashion onto the field. Please bear with us." the Referee said to the stunned crowd who did as he asked.

Ash recalled Charizard to avoid the people and stayed in his box quietly chatting with Pikachu about what just happened and the way the match was going. Ash was just as amazed that Charizard was strong enough to do that, he knew he was strong but that was a memory that would stay with him for life. Going over it, Ash started to question what happened when Pikachu said, "the sun is disappearing". Ash looked up and figured out what happened.

"Amazing" Ash said "he used Sunny Day, didn't he? Combined with Solar Power and gravity his attack was unbelievably powerful. I continue to be astounded by you guys on a daily basis you know? If people knew you came up with strategies as much as I do I don't think they'd believe me" he finished laughing

"I'm glad I'm retiring" Agatha said in the box laughing at the stunned silence after seeing Charizard plough through the stadium wall. Blue stood up and released his Alakazam and appeared on the field.

"We have some serious training to do" Lance said as he released his Dragonite and joined his leader.

"Even then I don't think it'll be enough" Bruno said leaning forward looking excited and looking over at his wife "at last love, someone who can challenge us."

"He's not there just yet" she said "but he will be and when he does get there, I don't think we'll be much of a challenge for him. Type advantage doesn't work against him, you saw that raw power from the start. To ignore Hydro Pump several times in a row and still have the strength left for that…wow. Just wow."

"His Charizard will take over from mine in the Valley at the rate he's progressing sooner than we think" Sam said sombrely "not even mine had the ability to do the impossible and break the league barriers."

"I didn't have a chance, did I?" Nia asked to the people around her. Bruno ruefully shook his head and said "No, not really. But I don't think he was going all out with you. Try not to feel insulted but from what I've seen of him in the past if he did, he'd have just used Pikachu and Charizard in this tournament and still reached the final. Those two are very strong."

"His Pikachu demolished my best in just one move" Erika said from behind them "I insulted him, and it took my Gloom down in one move. That was over six months ago. If he challenged me now, I'd likely decline. None of my elites would be able to compete with him."

"He'll likely do that after the tournament" Brock said looking at her "he's been talking to me about what the Elite challenge would entail. So, you may as well expect a challenge. He won't use Charizard though because of the deadly weakness you have but I'd still prepare."

"Shit" she said causing others to laugh along with her assessment.

"Do any of you know what he did just then?" Nia asked the room at large and collectively she received shaking heads.

"I'll ring him" Delia said surprising them. Delia got out her phone and rang Ash's number and put him on speakerphone.

"Hi Mum" Ash said confused at her ringing him "are you ok?"

"We are sweetie yes, but we're just chatting up here about what Charizard just did and can't come up with an answer. Do you have any idea?" she asked.

"Yeah, surprisingly it was Pikachu who gave me the clue by saying the sun was going away" Ash said "Hey" Pikachu interrupted "I can be clever" "sure you can be clever Pi, anyway Charizard used the time in the air to his advantage. He used Sunny Day, combined with his ability of Solar Power and gravity it raised his fire levels to a degree I didn't even know about. Blastoise didn't have a chance to be honest."

"Ah ok" Delia said "that makes sense. Well good luck sweetheart. It looks like Blue and Lance are finished with whatever they're doing. You're doing really well."

"Thanks mum" they heard before Delia hung up "there you are. Apparently, it was Pikachu who mentioned the sun was disappearing and Ash figured it out."

"Unbelievable" Nia said looking back onto the field.

"Ladies and gentlemen, it has been deemed fine to return to your seats. The champion has deemed the structure sound and the quick work of the leagues Machokes and Machamps have rebuilt the wall. The match will restart in ten minutes. Ash holds a lead of 4 to 1 but has revealed three of his Pokémon."

"Get ready Pi" Ash said "you're up." Pikachu waited until the last person had left the field before jumping down to the field himself.

"Raichu" John said sending out his own electric mouse causing them both to glare at each other. Ash just laughed and shook his head.

"Trainers begin"

"Quick Attack" John shouted.

"Agility" Ash responded.

"Iron Tail" John commanded.

"Use your own Pi" Ash said before grimacing at his mistake. Despite how strong Pikachu was he was still at a size and weight disadvantage and Raichu quickly overpowered him sending him skidding backwards "that's on me Pikachu. A mistake we won't make again Thunderbolt."

"Quick Attack into Iron Tail" John said smirking. It was a move he knew Ash utilised extraordinarily well in a battle, so they had trained using it too. Raichu let the bolt wash over him and winced before charging forwards and hitting Pikachu in the face sending him arcing through the air where he tumbled Before jumping to his feet again.

"It was worth it Pi" Ash said confusing John "we know it has the Static ability now which won't work on you. Thunder."

"Get out of there" John said as he realised that Pikachu held the advantage now "get as close as you can, we need to use physical moves. Thats our advantage."

"Agility and spam Thunderbolts Pi" Ash said realising how this battle was going to go. After a few minutes of this Ash shook his head as neither had landed an attack yet. "Your Raichu's speed is phenomenal for such a bulky Pokémon" Ash said surprising John with the compliment "Pikachu's speed is his best attribute after his special attack. I'm impressed."

Ignoring Ash, he concentrated on the battle at hand "Sand Attack" John said causing Pikachu to retreat before he was hit and potentially blinded.

"Four o'clock Electro Ball" Ash said, and Pikachu jumped into the air and launched a ball of electricity through the sand and hit his surprised opponent. "Pi wait. It's used Dig. You know what to do here."

Pikachu nodded and focused on hearing the ground beneath him. After nearly a minute had passed the ground began to shake underneath him and he focused on a spot just to his left before jumping back and using Iron Tail at the emerging mouse who received it full in the face sending it flying away before standing back up, a bruise already forming on its face. Roaring in anger it rushed forwards and again a game of Agility and Iron Tails started between them before Ash called out "Volt Tackle" before John could react Raichu was sent sprawling away from his opponent who had used the time to take deep gulping breaths of air. Unsurprisingly to Ash and Pikachu Raichu slowly rose to its feet and glared at Pikachu.

"Why didn't that knock it out?" Sarah asked.

"Because it's a Pikachu who it's facing" Lt Surge said laughing "after my Raichu drew the power battle we had as my challenge for the badge against Ash's Pikachu, every single Pikachu he faced afterwards was demolished with extreme prejudice. It's more than pride for him, it's ego too. I suspect Johns Raichu is feeling the same that a Pikachu is humiliating him on national TV and the fact his electric attacks are useless will probably compound that humiliation. John better be careful here that he doesn't get disqualified because Raichu probably won't accept defeat lightly."

"Pi, we need to end this as his Dragonair is coming up" Ash shouted, "Agility and Volt Tackle."

"If he wants to face us head on then that's fine" John shouted "Raichu Hyper Beam. End this"

The crowd gasped as the two attacks built up power as Pikachu got ever closer. When he was ten feet away Raichu released the attack which collided with Pikachu and created a massive explosion that covered the ground with dust. Ash sighed and began to walk down the steps to the utter confusion of the crowd and referee. Walking into the dust he emerged a few seconds later holding a knocked-out Pikachu and ascended the steps to his box and placed Pikachu on the chair provided. When he turned back, he saw the dust had settled to reveal Raichu had also been knocked out.

"Both Pikachu and Raichu are unable to battle. John send out your final Pokémon, Ash send out your next Pokémon."

A hush had descended on the crowd as they realised that John was down to his last Pokémon. They had been so enthralled with the battle that they had forgotten he was out of options. But on the flip side of that they also remembered what an option he had. His Dragonair had been incredible in this tournament so far, winning nearly every match he had, sometimes on its own. And while Ash held the advantage numerically his Pokémon was not to be underestimated.

"Dragonair, it's all on you now" John said sending out his pseudo-legendary who cooed to the crowd before focusing on the opponent who had just been sent out.

Ash had a gameplan for this. He didn't expect to come into the final match-up with a four Pokémon lead, but he would use this to his advantage. He decided that every one of his Pokémon deserved to participate in this battle, so he sent out Venusaur.

"I have a plan Venusaur" Ash said confidently.

"Begin" the referee shouted.

"Flamethrower" John shouted uncaring of the gasp that came from the crowd knowing what the move could do to the plant Pokémon.

"Safeguard followed by Protect" Ash said unflinching as the attacks washed over his Pokémon.

"Ice Beam" John said.

"Sludge Bomb" Ash countered. The attacks collided in the air creating frozen globs of poison which scattered across the field.

"Again" John said.

"Keep it up" Ash shouted thinking of a strategy to use. When more globs landed on the field Ash came up with a bizarre idea "Venusaur use Vine Whip but not on Dragonair. Pick up the ice balls and use them."

Amazingly John watched on as his Dragonair had to weave and dodge from the balls of ice that had been made into a makeshift Rock Throw. He had created an attack that would actually harm his dragon type if they hit which meant he couldn't use Ice Beam again.

"Flamethrower" John said.

"Protect" Ash countered as the flames washed over his Pokémon who hadn't moved from his spot.

"Keep it up, protect will fail eventually."

"Frenzy Plant" Ash called out spotting an opening. Roaring Venusaur kept up the protect and stamped onto the ground. John watched on in alarm as huge thick thorny vines pushed their way through the ground at an alarming rate and struck his Pokémon in the face sending it sprawling.

"Back into the air" John shouted urgently "you cannot let it ground you." his Dragonair, sporting a bruise on her face rose back into the air and weaved in and out of the vines with her lithe body and soon she was out of range of the vines.

"Sludge Bomb" Ash shouted as the vines parted in certain places and the poison move came hurtling at her from several places. In frustration she spewed flames again, but they weren't as effective from the range she was at.

"Dragonair, time to clear the vines, Dragon Rush" John shouted. Ash was ready for this as he watched Dragonair settle on Johns side and began to glow blue while gathering power. Quick as a bolt of lightning Dragonair shot forward and started to plough through the vines at an astonishing rate. Ash could see that she was getting slightly scratched and called out a move that couldn't be picked out by the crowd over the noise of the attack. Venusaur however heard and glowed blue as a shield sprang up in front of him and Dragonair bounced off the attack and up into the air spinning away. Ash noticed the move had done its job though as there were very few vines left protecting Venusaur.

"Vine Whip" Ash called out as Dragonair struggled to right itself and vines homed in on her and wrapped around her tail "slam her". Doing just that they stiffened and brought Dragonair down into the ground at a terrific rate causing her to cry out in pain at the impact.

Suddenly Venusaur was hit by a red beam and Ash sent out Blastoise "Ice Beam" Ash called out to his Pokémon and immediately sent out the attack. Dragonair tried to move but was still trying to regain her equilibrium after being slammed into the ground and the move hit her dealing a lot of damage.

Blastoise waited to see if she got up. Astonishingly she did. Ash however was not surprised as Dragonair was John's best for a reason. Shakily she got back into the air and glared at Blastoise screeching at him who remained stoic. And then she started glowing.

"Oh, you have got to be kidding me" Ash muttered as the light started to recede revealing a Pokémon Ash knew a lot about.

"Coo" Dragonite said as she flapped her wings and observed her opponent keenly.

"Dragon Rush" John called out and quicker than Ash could react his Blastoise was sent skidding backwards and dropped to one knee flinching from the attack. Wincing he stood up and looked at his opponent and set himself. He knew this would be a good challenge for him.

"Blastoise, just because she evolved doesn't mean she's still not injured." Ash said, "Ice Beam."

"Ice Beam" John called out matching it and the attacks collided in between them. Soon the ice began to form into a ball that gradually began to get bigger.

"Smash into it" John said as Dragonite ploughed into the ice ball wincing at the cold but shattering it and sending the pieces Blastoise way.

"Rapid Spin" Ash said as the attack bounced off his Pokémon's shell and going in all directions including his opponents who angrily flew out of range. "Good, Rain Dance"

"Let it" John said thinking his opponent had made a mistake he could capitalise on. Soon enough umbrellas were brought out by people in the crowds as a downpour started "lets see how he likes his own strategy used against him, Thunder" he finished with a vicious smile. Ash though remained calm knowing this was a chance he had to take.

As the bolt came down from the sky Ash shouted "Blizzard" Ash Blastoise took a deep breath and blew out very cold air that froze up all the raindrops making the air around them frigidly cold. The Thunder attack hit though causing him to cry out in pain "Rapid Spin" as quick as he could he retreated into his shell, but the rain had leaked into the holes of his arms and legs and he roared in pain inside his shell but still pulled off the attack sending the Blizzard across the field which hit Dragonite causing her to roar in pain and her wings started to freeze.

Ash seeing his Pokémon was in pain recalled him and looked at the pokeball in his hand. He looked at the Dragonite who was trying to chip off the ice from her wings using the ground. Eventually she managed it, but her wings were still not working as well as she'd hoped.

"And Ash recalls his Blastoise. He still has all four of his Pokémon available but two are heavily damaged and his Charizard must surely still be feeling the effects of going through a wall. Who will he send out?"

Ash knew the announcer was right, it was effectively 1 on 1 as Blastoise and Venusaur would struggle, and he didn't know Charizard's condition.

"Come on then Ketchum" John called out "let's see your legendary that you've been holding back."

Chuckling Ash threw a pokeball onto the field and John stopped smirking. The crowd were confused, this wasn't a legendary, was it?

"And Ash calls out a Pokémon that I confess to have no knowledge about."

"Who is she?" Nia asked looking at one of the prettiest looking Pokémon she had ever seen.

"Oh man" Lance said pinching his nose. "He has a bloody fairy type?"

"Yeah" Delia said laughing "technically she's mine as Ash caught her as an Eevee and gave her to me, but she's been training with Ash from before he caught his starters. And she kept up her training at home while he was on his journey so she's quite a little powerhouse."

"She's an Eeveelution?" Nia asked with hearts in her eyes "how do I get one?"

"It's not as easy as than you think to be honest" Delia said "you need to get an Eevee, earn its total trust and make sure it knows fairy moves. You then have a strong chance of gaining a Sylveon then."

"I want one" Nia said earning laughs from Delia "they're so pretty."

"Dragonite, I have no idea what that Pokémon is but let's get rid of it. Dragon Rush" John said confidently. He knew if he got rid of this fresh Pokémon then the odds would be even. Ash didn't even need to say anything, he just leaned against the barrier and smiled as the attack hit and a squeal of pain came from the dust that had formed. The crowd were amazed that Ash would let his Pokémon be hurt like that. From inside the dust cloud a pink ball formed and smashed into Dragonite causing her significant damage sending her sprawling across the field looking severely injured. As the dust settled Sylveon walked out looking as fresh as ever.

"What?" John said astounded "how the hell did Dragon Rush do nothing? Ref, what's going on here?"

"I don't know" the referee said confused "Mr Ketchum, explain before I deem fit to forfeit your Pokémon for it."

"No, you won't" Ash said confidently "you have no justification for doing so and then when the inquest that I launch is over you would be out of a job. Sylveon is an evolution of Eevee and is a legitimate Pokémon. It's not my fault you don't know about her. Sylveon use Dazzling Gleam."

Immediately his Pokémon used her ribbons to form a heart shape, and, in the centre, a pink beam of light shaped like a heart was sent into Dragonite who roared in pain from the attack and was brought to her knees. Looking up she had just enough time to see another beam heading her way and flattened herself as much as she could. The attack however grazed her back causing her to squeal in pain. What was this Pokémon she was up against that could not only tank her strongest attack but also deal so much damage to her. Angrily she rose to her feet and roared in anger at Sylveon who stood there unfazed. A tic mark appeared over Dragonites eye at the nonchalance with which Sylveon looked back and grew angry. Her body started to glow blue, and she charged forwards ignoring her injuries at the opposite Pokémon who didn't move.

"That's Outrage Sylveon" Ash said "keep on your toes. You'll know when to hit back."

"Dragonite has lost this one" Lance said shaking his head earning a surprised look from the gathered people in the box "for those who don't know Fairy types are not just strong against dragons, they're also immune to every dragon type attack. Dragonite could wail all day on Sylveon using Outrage and nothing would happen. Her anger has clouded her rational thinking and when the attack ends, she'll not only be confused but she'll be wide open to attack."

Nods of understanding went around the box as Delia clutched her hands together nervously. Despite Lance assurance it was never over until one side couldn't battle. It was something Red had always said. "It's not over with until it's actually over with sweetheart. Remember that. It's cost me a lot of wins assuming I'd won."

"Dragonite, you need to stop" John shouted helplessly as his Pokémon was consumed by rage, which only grew when her attacks seemingly did nothing. After a few minutes of trying to hit her opponent Dragonite collapsed onto her knees utterly exhausted and looked balefully at her opponent who had not attacked once since her rage took hold. "How?" she asked quietly.

"Finish it Sylveon" Ash said quietly. She heard clearly though as there was utter silence in the crowd at seeing a mythical Pokémon like Dragonite be so outclassed. Walking forward she formed her ribbons into a heart again and looked pityingly at her opponent. Dragonites visage seemed to clear and saw the predicament she was in and bowed her head accepting the inevitable. She didn't even cry out as the attack hit full in the face knocking her out.

The ref had been stunned into silence along with the crowd. It was only when the crowd started shouting again that he realised where he was and gathered himself. "Dragonite is unable to battle, Sylveon wins. John is out of Pokémon. As such Ash Ketchum is the new Champion of the Kanto League."

The cameras panned to Ash who was standing there in absolute shock. He had won? He was champion? Quizzically he looked at Pikachu and struggled to find the words to his starter. "We did it Pi" he eventually said quietly "we won."

Chapter 44: Chapter 44

Chapter Text

Chapter 44- What now?

"We did it Pi, we won" Ash said in shock. Eventually his brain kicked into gear, and he picked Pikachu up and twirled him in the air "we won!"

Pikachu who had just been through a gruelling battle was in no mood to be twirled and used a mild Thundershock on Ash causing him to freeze and collapse. "Thanks Pi."

Standing up he looked around in amazement at the crowd who was cheering for them. Pikachu joined him on his shoulder and observed with him soaking it all in. Nearly a year and a half of turmoil, training, travelling and deaths had all led to this moment and Ash struggled not to cry. "I wish dad were here to see this Pi, I hope mum is ok."

"Only one way to find out Ash" Pikachu said, "we have to go down at some point." Nodding Ash gave a wave to the crowd and made his way down the steps where the field was being worked on by a team of Dugtrio and Diglett to make it flat again. Walking over to the centre he shook the referee's hand and waited for John to arrive. He might not like the guy, but he was a worthy finalist. Eventually John made his way over, his face looking resigned. Ash was glad it wasn't the other way around.

Holding his hand out Ash waited for john to take it. After a good ten seconds he did and said "well done. Next time will be different."

"I look forward to it" Ash said genuinely and taking his microphone off his lapel. John mirrored him thinking this conversation would just be for them two "and I'm sure next time you'll win this league."

"You won't be defending it next year?" he asked surprised.

"Unlikely" Ash said "I have a lot of meetings lined up over the course of the year that will likely take precedence. My life is about to become very busy outside of battling. We'll still train and compete but it's unlikely I'll be here next year. I was considering Johto actually to experience new Pokémon to be able to counter them more easily."

"Who was that Pokémon you used?" John asked. "I was also expecting your Salamence to appear."

"Her name is Sylveon and she's one of the newly discovered Fairy types" Ash replied "They're not only strong against Dragon types but immune to every Dragon type attack. Salamence has been sent away for educating. Not by me I might add, Lance's Salamence was less than impressed with her attitude when we tried to talk to her after the battle with Richie and sent her to learn respect at the Bagon grounds. He deemed her trying to attack me from behind an act of cowardice and not befitting of a dragon. I'll send you the document Lance sent me on them. Their mindset is so much different to other dragons. It's fascinating reading."

"You chose her deliberately to combat Dragonite" John said wryly shaking his head "didn't you? That's a shame about Salamence though but at least she's in good hands. What happened to your Legendaries?"

"I don't need them." Ash said "I happen to agree with you about people that use them in battles. They prove to the world they have no skill or strategy and don't deserve the title of Pokémon trainer. Not only that but every Legendary has a place in the world for a reason, they're integral to the balance of the earth and removing just one from doing their job can have a major impact."

"So why do you have two?" he asked questioningly.

"I haven't had the chance to release them yet." Ash said "I was doing a task up near Rota for Mew and they attacked us to stop us trying to complete the task as they thought we were there to try and capture her and I caught them to prevent them slowing me down or repeatedly attacking us. When I did complete it, I let them out and they dug away before I could press the release mechanism. It's one of the first things I'm going to do when all this has died down."

"Ah ok" John said "we will battle again Ash. And next time I will win."

"Charizard vs Dragonite should be a blockbuster" Ash said nodding looking around to see the podium had been erected and people from the top box had made their way down to the field. "Here we go, the dog and pony show is about to begin" he finished muttering.

"You don't like all this?" John asked surprised.

"Not even slightly" Ash said shaking his head ruefully "if I had the choice I'd shake Mr Goodshows hand, take the trophy and go home. I'm made for battling, and the media are very fickle. The only reason I'm sponsored by Silph is because they agreed to publish my books and I didn't want mum to ever worry about money. My financial future is secure as long as I don't go mad. Sadly, the interviews and appearances are the cost for that future. It's only for ten years though so by the time I'm 22 I'll be free to negotiate what I want, should I want to."

"So that's two things we agree on" John said laughing "I've been sponsored by Devon Corps since I finished in the last 4 in the Hoenn League a few years ago, and it's been one thing after another. I wanted to win here today don't get me wrong, but the media side that's going to follow isn't something I was looking forward too."

"I don't think people realise how strenuous doing a League challenge is" Ash said "the mental preparation is worse than the physical. We have a year to train for that with the gym challenges, but nothing can compare with wondering how your next battle is going to go. I'd much rather lose the final than the semis, the prospect of what might have been would have eaten me up mentally. But you're right, it's why I had a house built away from everyone. I'm aware a lot of people have it much worse than us and we shouldn't grumble but I'm not a fan of people in general."

"Yup" John said watching as a league official came walking their way "a trainer's life is often a solitary one by design. Mine is anyway. Let's see what they want. That's another thing, our Pokémon will have to wait until all this is done to be healed, there's very little consideration given to them."

"Then let's change that. They're here for us not the other way around" Ash said ignoring the League official and walking over to Nurse Joys booth and placed his Pokéballs in the tray. John followed him to do the same "Hello Miss Joy, please can you take our Pokémon? They've had a gruelling day and need healing."

"Mine too" John said doing the same "How's Pidgeot?" he asked concerned.

"She's doing ok" Joy said much to his relief "luckily that attack, while powerful only hit her for a few seconds. A week's rest and she'll be as good as new. I must say I'm glad you've come over to me and given me your Pokémon to heal, most trainers are too caught up in winning and losing to give their Pokémon a moment's thought before they realise eventually that they need healing."

"We're hoping to start a new tradition" Ash said, "we were just discussing how the officials never seem to care about our Pokémon, when they're the reason we got here in the first place."

The league official who had come to get them quietly backed away at Ash's words and ran over to Charles who nodded and waved him away. Ash and John slowly made their way to the podium where seats had been placed and sat down continuing on with idle chit-chat. They watched on as seating was placed facing the podium so that the dignitaries and families could watch the closing ceremony first hand. Ash saw Gary sit down next to Richie and Assunta. It seemed every competitor that had taken part had been invited to the closing ceremony. Ash waved at his mum and Sarah who was sat in the front row, but his breath caught when he looked at Nia. John who was in the middle of listening to what he was saying looked at where Ash was looking and smirked. Nia was sat next to Lorelei and Bruno but had a child sat on her lap happily playing with her.

"I didn't know Nia had a sibling" he commented.

"Oh, that's not her sibling" Ash said coming back to himself "that's Brunos and Lorelei's daughter Hailee. It seems they've decided to make their marriage public."

"I didn't know that" John said looking curiously "Is Nia single?" he asked innocently looking at the back of his hand.

Ash looked up sharply at him "I don't know. I've only met her twice, three times if you count our battle."

"Interesting" John said looking around before glancing back at Ash and started chuckling at his face "why don't you tell her you like her?"

"Because I can't" Ash said admitting aloud for the first time that he was interested in her "an aura users' life is very different than a normal person. We couple for life, and we don't always find the person we are destined to be with. On top of that we only start aural puberty at 16 which is when our aura starts to send out the signal to find them. Imagine if you had a girlfriend at 15 and then when you reach 16 you find out that the person you've been dating isn't the one for you. I'll never put someone through that, nor would I force anyone to stay with me knowing they'll always be second best. I'll happily take friendship over that feeling."

"Man" John said shaking his head "you don't do things by half Ash do you? That sucks."

"Yeah" Ash said quietly looking at Nia "it sure does."

"Ladies and Gentlemen" Charles said at the podium seeing everyone was seated "welcome to the closing ceremony for the Seventieth Pokémon League Tournament! Over the past five weeks we have all been treated to an amazing spectacle, we've seen loss and heartbreak, triumph and celebration, victory snatched from the jaws of defeat, strategies that have left us astounded and amazed until finally one person stood atop all others and claimed the title of Pokémon League Champion. Before we get to that happy event though we have the awards ceremony to proceed with. It's been discussed at length what rewards to give out, but we finally came to a decision. Now bear in mind these were all agreed on before the final so sadly nothing from that battle will be considered and they are as such:

The most spectacular move goes to Pete Pebbleman in his match against Mandy. The way his Cloyster trapped the Golbat in a hail of ice and created a whirlwind with it was exceptional." Pete stood up to the applause and walked forward and accepted his award.

"The best comeback goes to John in his match against Ashley to reach the final. John was facing certain defeat being 4-2 down before his Dragonair swept the match and won him a spot here today in the final" John stood up smiling and walked forward accepting the plaque and shook Charles hand before walking back to his seat.

"The best trainer award goes to Ash Ketchum who only lost two Pokémon on the road to the final" Ash stood up and accepted his award and then sat back down.

"The award is for the youngest recipient to reach the furthest in the tournament also goes to Ash Ketchum" Ash shook his head and got to his feet again to receive the reward. sitting back down he sighed.

"The greatest show of sportsmanship also goes to Ash in his match against Jeanette. It was tough to pick between that match and his one with Assunta where his quick thinking healed her Tentacruel. Either way Ash very much deserves this award." Sighing Ash got up again to accept the award and glared at Mr Goodshow who just chuckled at his outrage.

"And now we come to the final few awards. The trophy for the winner of the third place playoff goes to Nia Morgan!" Nia gave Hailee back to Bruno to walk up to receive her award when she stopped as Hailee started crying. Making a decision she walked back and squatted down next to her and said something no one could hear. Seeing Hailee nod and take her hand they both made their way to the podium and the crowd watched as Nia and an unknown girl walked across the stage to accept the trophy. It brought many people to tears, even Ash started filling up. Thanking everyone she hoisted Hailee onto her hips and gave her the little trophy to hold as she walked back off-stage waving to the crowd.

"The runner up trophy goes to John Dickson!" John walked up to Charles and shook his hand before receiving his trophy. Holding it aloft in one hand he waved to the crowd and walked back to his seat and sighed.

"And we come to the final award of the night. Very few people could argue with this final being one of the greatest in history. In fact, it created history from the very beginning when we witnessed an event that had not been seen in many lifetimes. We were graced by the presence of the three Kanto Legendary birds. And then the battle itself, well what can we say about it? Watching Charizard and Blastoise go through the wall will forever live on in my memory. It was spectacular and the finalists more than earned their places but as I said at the beginning of the tournament there can only be one winner and ladies and gentlemen I give him to you. Please stand and applaud the youngest ever winner of the Kanto League tournament, Mr Ash Ketchum!"

Taking a deep breath Ash stood up and walked to the front and accepted the trophy and held it aloft to rapturous applause. As he was about to leave Charles stopped him and whispered something in his ear. Nodding he placed the trophy back down next to the podium and stood facing the crowd.

"I've just been told it's traditional to do a speech" Ash said "I'm not great at talking in front of crowds, I'd much prefer to do this in a quieter setting but I'm here now. I want to start off by saying thank you to my Pokémon. Over the past year and a bit, we've been through a lot. We rescued Lord Zapdos' father the previous Lord Zapdos from certain death at the Power Plant, we liberated Lavender Town from mind control, we did the same in Saffron City from the psychics, we nearly died in Porta Vista facing the giant Tentacruel, we sacrificed a part of ourselves to resurrect Mew at the Tree of Beginning, we did die on New Island and I'm still puzzled on how I came back to life. At times this has felt like I'm observing someone else's life and it usually takes Pikachu shocking me to make me realise this is my life. I'm incredibly grateful for everything I've been given, from my Pokémon finding me, to the experience I've gained on my journey and the sights I have seen in the remotest parts of this region. I'm very blessed.

My second thank you goes to my mother. My mother has sacrificed ten years of her life to raise me with all my difficulties' growing up as a single parent ever since my father went missing in Viridian City. We still hold out hope he is somewhere out there alive and waiting for us to find him and if he is mum, we'll find him. I once told Ilene that I'm incredibly proud to be your son and I'll say it again for the world to hear. Without your guidance over the last year, I would not have reached this point easily.

And that brings us on to the next person I want to thank, Mr Samuel Oak. Words cannot express how this man has changed my life. He was the first to introduce me to Pokémon, the first to introduce me to what being a trainer means and has been the rock for my mother for the past ten years. We owe him a debt we can never repay, and he deserves to be recognised for being more than a professor. He's an incredible human being to go alongside it. So, thank you Sam.

Thank you to Joanne for putting up with me the past month as my advisor, thank you to Silph for sponsoring me and sending her to me. I think that's it really. This tournament has been a fantastic journey for me but I'm not going to be shy in saying I'm grateful it's over. I'm mentally and physically drained and while I had full faith in my Pokémon, I'm still shocked that I won. So, I'm going to take my mother out for a meal tonight to celebrate before returning home where hopefully I'll be left in peace for a few weeks. Thank you."

The abruptness of his exit shocked everyone before Charles recovered and took to the podium again once the applause had died down "I want to thank all the trainers that took part, all the staff that helped keep this machine running, you guys are the lifeblood of this event and should feel proud of what you've accomplished. We cannot do this without you so thank you. And so, we come to the end of another tournament and as the flame of Moltres dies out for another year I wish you all the best of luck in your endeavours. Thank you all."

As Charles went back to his seat everyone watched in awe at the firework show that went off celebrating the end of the event. It was made even more special by the three birds, who had remained throughout the entire event creating their own fireworks show by sending attacks into the air before speeding off.

As they were ending Charles walked over to Ash and John and said "after the press interviews, I'd like you both to come to my office for 9pm. Just present yourselves to the receptionist and someone will come and get you. Try and keep it away from the media's eyes. Congratulations again to you both." Gaining confused nods, he walked off the stage to mingle with the crowd. Ash and John did the same leaving their awards next to their chairs.

Letting his mum know they'd have to have a rain-check on the meal because of Charles she just nodded and hugged him "I thought I was done crying but you've made me so proud."

Eventually the crowd disappeared, and Ash collected his trophies. He put the plaques inside the cup and walked over to where Nurse Joy was and thanked her for her work. Nodding she handed Ash back his Pokémon.

"They're all in perfect health Ash. Johns are the same apart from his Pidgeot if you were wondering who will recover." Joy said smiling at him. Nodding Ash clipped them back onto his belt before walking off to see Joanne who led him into a room to prepare him for his interviews. Ash couldn't wait for them to be over.

Hours later Ash felt like he'd been through the ringer. The number of times he answered the question about his death had irritated him to the point where he angrily said "Look, I've already said I'm not going to talk about it. I will not even acknowledge another question about it and if any of you get the bright idea of hounding my mum or Professor Oak about it I will never, and I want you to listen carefully to me now, I will never talk to that media outlet again, so you have been warned. Understood? Good. Now, can we get on with questions about the match please."

Ash had quickly retreated back to his chalet on the back of Charizard as soon as he exited the league building. He expected to be mobbed but not like this. Walking in he saw his mum cooking in the kitchen with Laura, Blue, Sam and surprisingly Gary sat around the counter. Putting the trophy on the couch he joined them and sighed.

"That bad huh?" Blue asked chuckling receiving a baleful glare back.

"I don't know how you and Sam put up with it." Ash said, "I've been champion for two and a half hours now and I could already do without the nonsense that comes along with it."

"Some people are meant for the spotlight, some aren't" Laura said sympathetically "we saw your interview too."

"Wankers" Ash muttered under his breath. Delia just turned and looked at him with a raised eyebrow "I know, 'language'. But they are."

"Did you actually die?" Gary asked making everyone take a deep breath. "Or was it bad wording?"

"I did" Ash said nodding "it's something I've talked about with Mum and Sam but you're family too so I can tell you guys but it goes no further than this table. There's a lot that's classified and I don't want to get your dad in trouble. Team Rocket created a genetically superior Pokémon to Mew using her fossil as a DNA base and their naming team brilliantly came up with Mewtwo as a name for him. He's the most powerful Pokémon in the world. Do you remember that huge spike of blue light a few months ago along with the storms that started from nowhere? That was Mewtwo who had escaped from Team Rocket and was hell bent on ending humans in revenge. Anyway, I was fortunate enough to be near New Island when it started, and I went to investigate. Long story short I battled Mewtwo personally and beat him. He didn't like that and as a last resort used all his power in one final attack to try and beat me. I'm fortunate that I've got aura abilities and I matched him in power with my own attack. The blast from the attacs colliding killed me and broke his back.

It was only after the event I was told what happened afterwards. The three Kanto birds had come to investigate as they were the closest Legendaries to the event and they came to lend aid against whatever had shifted the balance. They got there too late, but Zapdos remembered the way I had sacrificed an ability of mine using aura to save Mews life a few months beforehand. That's something I will never discuss with anyone except mum so please don't ask. Anyway, he decided to give up his aura so that I could live again because he felt the debt he owed me was a worthy trade. I have a scar on my chest shaped like a bolt of lightning. I have no idea how I lived again, I'm just grateful I did. And that's it really. Mew arrived and healed Mewtwo and they both disappeared, Articuno and Moltres went to inform Zapdos' child he would be ascending, and I didn't see them again until this afternoon."

"Wow" Laura said hugging Gary "just the thought of losing Gary or Daisy makes me feel ill."

"Agreed" Delia said placing the food on the counter for everyone to start plating up "which is why it will never be discussed again. Ash is alive. That's all that matters to me."

A few hours later Ash put on his hoodie and walked back out and headed towards the main building of the league. It was hard to believe he wouldn't be battling there again for a long time. He was still trying to wrap his mind around the fact he was Champion now. Entering the building he walked up to the receptionist and gave his details. She gave him a special keycard and directed him to the elevator where he rode it all the way to the top. Walking over to another reception counter he gave her the keycard and took a seat waiting for whatever Charles wanted him for. The sound of the elevator opening made Ash look that way and was very confused when Nia and Ashley walked in chatting. Greeting them they sat down and asked if he knew what they were here for. Shaking his head, he said he didn't. The elevator dinged again a few minutes later and John walked in and sat down too.

At 9pm on the dot Charles himself walked out to greet them.

"Come, come. I'm sure you're all wondering what is going on so all will soon be revealed." He led them into the conference room where Ash was surprised to find Mr Suzuki, Blue and Sam waiting for them with a few packages on the table in front of them. Saying hello, they sat down and waited for whatever Charles wanted to say.

"Now, I know you're all in suspense, so we won't dally any longer. Most people believe that the final four of the league tournaments just get a trophy for their efforts. However, that is not the case. We don't advertise this but there are more prizes to be given out to those select few. It took us months to decide on something and we've finally come to a decision. Ashley, for finishing fourth I give you this cheque for 20,000 pokedollars and this box, don't open it just yet. Nia, I give you this cheque for 100,000 pokedollars and a box, John, I give you this cheque for 250,000 pokedollars and a box and finally Ash, I give you a cheque for 500,000 pokedollars and a box. Now, what's in the box? It is something that is a world changer in regard to Pokémon battling and is something no one else has, not even the Champion and Elite Four have one. Open them."

Ash watched as the other three opened them and looked up puzzled. Ash opened it and immediately closed it and pushed it back to Charles.

"I don't want it." He said, "I'm surprised you're giving these out to be honest."

Nia pulled out of the box a purple and black ball that had gold trimming around the edges with a big M embossed in gold on the front and looked at it in confusion. "What is it?"

"It looks like a Pokéball" Ashley said, "but it's not one I've ever seen before."

"It is a Pokéball" Mr Suzuki said enthusiastically "and you won't have seen it as it's only just been manufactured. It's called the Masterball and it catches any Pokémon without fail. You don't even need to battle the Pokémon to catch it either. As of now they're untested on Legendaries though as we couldn't find one that would co-operate."

"Oh" Ashley said shrinking and unshrinking it "why?"

"Why what?" he asked confused at the lack of enthusiasm.

"Why would such a thing be created? I take it the people who came up with this idea aren't trainers?" she said looking up at him.

"No" he said slowly "but it's Silphs greatest ever creation."

"I thought I'd been clearer about this" Ash said pinching his nose "especially as the same night I warned you about the downside of what such a creation could do you were very nearly robbed of your blueprints for it. I thought you'd halted manufacturing them."

"The abuse they can create is unparalleled" John said pushing his away too "If and I mean if they are proven to be able to capture Legendaries and contain them the world will be put into chaos once again and your company would be to blame for creating them. No, I'm with Ash on this one."

"And that's why we've discussed their use" Charles said butting in seeing how downcast Mr Suzuki was getting they'd tried to tell him about the mindset of a battler, but he just wouldn't listen "so we came up with a counter. They're only for you four. And when you catch a Pokémon, it will register on your trainer ID where your sponsor will immediately be notified as to what it caught. If any of you catch a Legendary using it your trainer ID will be suspended until you present yourself and explain why. Should the explanation be found to be insufficient your trainer license will be revoked forever."

"We follow your lead on this Champion" John said smirking at Ash who glared back.

"I'm not happy about it" Ash said reaching for his box but leaving it unopened "but it doesn't seem like you're giving us much of a choice in not taking it. Fine, but I want no complaints about whatever I use it on. That's my right as a trainer."

"As long as it's not a Legendary that's fine" Sam said ending the matter. The other three pocketed their cheques and box and waited to see if there was anything else.

"Now, Ash." Blue said, "a little bird told me you won't be returning next year?" Charles and Sam looked surprised at the news.

Ash looked at John who said "it wasn't me who told him. We took our microphones off for a reason."

"So that leaves the referee then" Ash said sighing "yes, the next year is going to be very busy with Sam and I's projects and training to take on the Elite Four. I was under the impression I had eighteen months to challenge them before I had to win a League again to qualify."

"You do" Blue said, "which is why I'm surprised you don't want to defend your title. However, the opening ceremony has the previous winner who carries the torch to open the event."

"We'll see" Ash said noncommittally "I should have the time to do that part. If not I'm sure you can figure something out."

"Very well" Charles said standing up "I want to congratulate you four again for such a marvellous showing in the tournament. You impressed a lot of people."

Everyone stood up and made their way to the elevator where the four adults left them to travel down on their own.

Just before they were leaving John stopped Ash and waited for the other two to be some distance away. "Look, we're not friends, and we likely never will be. But I can settle for competitive rivals."

"Agreed" Ash said holding his hand out "and we'll have that re-match at some point in the future. Good luck with whatever you do."

Shaking his hand John nodded before leaving them. Ashley said goodbye to Nia leaving just the two of them.

"Can I walk you back to your hotel?" Ash asked to which she nodded smiling.

When Ash got back to his chalet that night, he lay on his bed thinking about the day. It had been a bloody long one, but he had achieved the dream he had hoped for, for so long. He was champion and no one could take that away from him.

The next day they packed up their belongings. Ash cursed as he had not once asked Sam about the weird puzzle piece that had been on his dresser the entire time. He vowed to have the chat soon. Walking out of his room he saw his mum saying goodbye to Joanne and Kyle who were leaving for their own home.

"I'll be in contact soon" Jo said "the next month or so is shaping up to be busy. Bye Ash"

Soon it was just Ash and his mum. Putting their gear into the car Ash left the keys on the table next to the door with a thankyou note to the owner and got into the car. The entire journey was done with bits of small talk but nothing of consequence. By late afternoon they were just pulling up to the front of their house when they saw the banners on every lamppost congratulating Ash. Smiling and waving as he got out of the car, he greeted people and thanked them before helping his mum unload the car. A few hours later Ash was unpacking his bag when his hand brushed a manila folder. Taking it out he saw the banner 'Red Ketchum' and walked downstairs to see his mum at the counter having a cup of tea. Looking up she saw the folder and her face grew serious.

"Your father" she said taking the folder and opening it taking out the various bits of paper with all the clues to his whereabouts were written down.

"That's my next quest mum" Ash said "we're going to rest for a few weeks before we hunt him. He's out there mum, we both can feel it."

"Where are you going to start?" She asked.

"I'm going Legendary hunting" Ash said "Mewtwo kidnapped him. He knows where he is and if I have to beat it out of him I will get his location."

The next day Ash and Delia travelled to Ash's house to make sure everything was in order for the trees being delivered next week. As they were sitting down to have a drink a blinding flash stopped them in their tracks.

"Hello Mewtwo, what can I do for you?" Ash asked cautiously.

"I was told that you were seeking me?" Mewtwo asked.

Delia interrupted and said "yes, we were. We know you took my husband somewhere. We want to know where."

"Ah" Mewtwo said "unfortunately I knew where he was, but he has since been moved."

"He's alive?" Delia asked quietly.

"He was the last time I checked" Mewtwo replied.

"Where was he?" Ash asked.

"New Island" Mewtwo said "but he was moved about a year ago. If you're going to hunt for him, I'd start there. Unfortunately, there are certain things I need to complete first, or I'd help you. I will come here once a month to check in if that is acceptable?"

"It is" Ash said, "we're having two weeks rest first and then we'll start the hunt."

"Very well" Mewtwo said "can I have a word alone?"

Looking uncertain Ash walked out of the front door to the garden.

Looking off to the side "are you aware you're being watched?" Mewtwo asked.

"Yes" Ash said quietly "but not for much longer."

"Very well." Mewtwo said "when?"

"In the next few days." Ash replied stopping to pick out a flower for his mum "sadly he's not one we can interrogate."

"I shall be back in three nights time" Mewtwo said quietly "I shall aid you."

"Any help will be appreciated" Ash said before Mewtwo teleported away leaving Ash to walk back inside.

"What was that about?" Delia asked giving him a shrewd look.

"He was asking if he could keep an eye on you while I was away looking for dad" Ash said lying smoothly "he feels guilty and also knows Silver is still an issue. He didn't want to offend you. I told him to ask you yourself."

"Oh ok" Delia said, "it's a bit strange he pulled you away though for just that."

"I told him that" Ash said laughing "he replied that he did kidnap your husband, so he didn't know how you'd react."

"Fair enough" she said "so in two weeks' time..."

"We hunt" Ash said giving his mum a smile. "You knew he was alive mum. And you weren't wrong. We're on the right track and we will get him back."

Ash looked out of the window to where he believed New Island was "we're coming for you dad."

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