Climbing Down The Mountain (Amourshipping, Chaptered, Rated PG-13)

[matthew11]

Here is my current work. It's more successful than the last one, and I'm proud of it. It's still in progress though. Enjoy, and don't forget to review! (I know, the title sucks )

EDIT: Oops. I forgot that this is not just Amourshipping, but also Contestshipping and one-sided Advanceshipping fic.

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Climbing Down The Mountain

Chapter 1: Paying A Visit​

Trees covered in snow, cold winds blowing their way, and comforting silence envelope their surroundings, at the peak of Mt. Silver, on the edge of the cliff, sits Ash and Pikachu, reminiscing their past adventures throughout each and every region they have faced. The cold wind doesn't seem to bother them since they've been training on this mountain for over eight years.

Ash had battled many strong trainers, and Pikachu had battled many strong Pokemon, and they've won every single one they engaged in. And now, for Ash, a battle against a Champion is like a mere battle against a Magikarp. Since then, he had been renowned as Pokemon Master by the people around the world, but, upon becoming one, to his realization, it was not enough to satisfy him. He thought that he haven't had enough training, and so he went to this mountain to perfect every moves and combos his Pokemon had. It's been over eight years, and still he felt it wasn't enough.

As he thought very deeply on what could satisfy him, he felt an empty space in his heart. Heart… Love…

He remembered the time when his childhood friend admitted her feelings for him before he could board the plane to his home region. He turned his back, until…

"I-I-I love you!"

As he heard those words, he froze on his spot, turned back around, and saw her scarlet cheeks and tears that formed on her blue orbs started streaming down her beautiful face like raging waterfalls. It took him thirty seconds to process every word she had blurted out and the expression she had given. When his mind was still processing, he was surprised as she hugged him suddenly. He couldn't return those words, but he was able to return the hug.

He laughed at his denseness then. He didn't know the meaning of 'love'. No, not the love for his Pokemon; the love that is shared between a man and a woman. He guessed that his heart and mind was into Pokemon and adventures. The thought of having a girlfriend didn't cross his mind as his goal was his first priority. He's one now, and now what? Where does he go from here? He can't keep training hard all the time. Eventually, one will come and take his title when he is not in this world anymore. He needs someone; someone who would take care of him and him to take care of, someone who would be with him for life, someone who would cook meals for him since his stomach is that of the universe, someone… someone who would love him as much as he loves her.

As he thought of these things, his mind shifted to his childhood friend, Serena. He thought of her honey-blonde hair tied in a low pony tail flowing naturally in the air, her blue orbs that seem to change his world as he look at them, her slender waist any girl could wish to have. She was… perfect. He felt regret as he remembered he said to her that, until then, he would have to satisfy his goal. He hadn't heard any news about her after his departure from Kalos. He assumed that she forgot about him. That thought alone already felt like a Hyper Beam hit his heart. He also assumed that she now has a boyfriend. That, he felt his heart is being guillotined.

How he regret not having to reciprocate her feelings back then. Sure, not understanding a girl's feelings for him since his mind is set to his goal is understandable, but not returning her feelings, that's a different story to tell.

How he wished to relive that moment; the moment when she confessed to him, and that he would say he felt the same way. But, to relive that time, he would have to be with her, and she currently resides in her home region. A light bulb appeared above his head, signifying that an idea crossed his mind.

Pikachu sensed this, and hopped on his trainer's shoulder as he stood up. Ash unclipped a Pokeball from his pocket and threw it in the air and came out his strongest Pokemon in his roster, Charizard.

The dragon-like Pokemon roared loudly and fiercely and the ground shook beneath them. Ash hopped on his Pokemon, and commanded,

"Charizard, take me to Kalos. I have an 'appointment' there waiting for me."

Charizard started to flap his wings and flew high in the sky. Their destination? Kalos.

________________________________________________________________​

Fresh and warm breeze coming their way, the atmosphere that seems to void of sorrow, at the foot of Pomace Mountain, near the flower fields sits Serena and her new partner, Mawile. She was reminiscing her past adventures with Ash, Clemont, and Bonnie; how they stood up to challenges, how they argued and strengthen their bonds afterwards, how she cheered for Ash in his gym battles, how she admired Ash's determination, and how Ash's trade mark quote "Never give up until the end!" helped her achieve her dream of becoming Kalos Queen.

Serena took the title of Kalos Queen from Aria two years ago. Since then, the news reporters started to annoy her, and so she searched for a place that is unknown to any of them to get some time alone, and she knew exactly where to go. She couldn't go to her hometown since they knew she lived there.

Mawile was found by her in a house near Pomace Mountain where its trainer, Maple, lived back then. Serena knew it's been eight years since she's been here, and when she saw Mawile's expression, she knew that its trainer had passed away. She asked Mawile if she can stay in the late Maple's house for a while, which it agreed to since its been trustworthy to Serena after she caught it from falling from Team Rocket's balloon during the night when she had enough of arranging flowers. Not only did it agreed to Serena, it went and took out its Pokeball from the drawer as well as the key stone Maple held for a long time, and came back and handed the two items over to her, signifying it wants Serena to become its new trainer. She didn't expect for Mawile to decide it wants her to become its trainer since she only wanted a quiet place to stay for a while, but nonetheless, she accepted.

They went to the nearby flower fields for a relaxing and fresh breeze to surround them. Serena only realized now how beautiful the flowers dance with the wind, and how Maple tried to protect this field from dying or from being destroyed by outsiders. How she wished for Ash being here. It was really romantic. She imagined herself, sitting beside him, her head resting on his shoulder, watching the flowers dance at the beautiful garden that is in front of them.

Throughout her journey, she didn't have the courage to tell Ash her feelings for him. That is because she was afraid of him not having to feel the same way as she does. She already knew from the moment she talked to him personally in Santalune City, that he was as dense as planet Venus. Not only that, he didn't remember her at first sight, but that didn't pull away her love for him. She knew she needed to tell her feelings for him before he goes back to his home region.

"I-I-I love you!"

She said to Ash at the airport. She couldn't resist the urge to cry her heart out since the intense feeling from the thought of Ash departing from Kalos was too strong for her. She wanted him to stay, but that would mean she would hinder his goal to become a Pokemon Master. It seemed though as confessing her feelings to him wasn't enough to satisfy her. She knew she would have to receive a response from him. But she couldn't wait, as she went ahead and bear-hugged Ash. She wasn't surprised as she felt his arms wrap around her waist as her mind was still filled with thoughts of Ash leaving.

Her heart started beat from dread as he told her that he wants to satisfy his goal first, but felt relieved as he added that he will visit her again in the near future, trying to not make her feel sad. Until then, she would continue on to become Kalos Queen to impress him. But since then, he is yet to visit her. She thought that he forgot about her. That thought alone made a large crack in her heart. She also thought that he already has a girlfriend. That, she felt that she doesn't have a heart anymore.

How she regret not having to tell him earlier. She could've told him about her feelings so that he could develop the same feelings over time. But it's too late. And now, she is only waiting for him to visit her once more, and maybe tell her that he loves her.

"Did you know, Mawile, that I have feelings for Ash? You know, the boy with the red hat and Pikachu back then?" She asked Mawile, attempting to lighten the weight in her heart.

"Maw?" "Huh? When?" Mawile asked in surprise.

"I had feelings for him since the incident back in the summer camp in Kanto. I was lost in the forest, and I was scared by a Nyoromo back then and I tripped, hurting my knee. He then appeared from the bushes, saw me, and tied a handkerchief on my wound. He lifted me up too hard, resulting in a hug-like state. I was surprised back then from the state we were in. And then he walked me out of the forest. Since then, he is the nicest boy I've ever met. I even made his saying my trade mark quote." Serena said. This was the second time she talked about how she had feelings for Ash. The first was with Fennekin.

"Mawile wile!" "That's so cute!" Mawile said.

"I know, right? Even I am surprised how cute my experience was. But I don't know if he feels the same way as I do. I really hope he does though." Serena said.

"Wile mawile mawile." "I also hope he does. You two do make a cute couple after all." Mawile said, complimenting they would look cute together.

"Hehe, thanks Mawile." Serena said, blushing lightly at the comment.

She then realizes how time flows by quickly as she saw the sun began to set. She stands up and said,

"Say, why don't we go back to your house? It's getting late, and I'd like you to try my Pokepuffs." Serena said.

"Mawile." "I would love that." Mawile said.

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Chapter 2 up next...

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 2: Grace​

The wind, passing through his ears. Ash can't hear anything. Pikachu was on his shoulders holding for dear life. Charizard has been flying for over 5 hours without stop. Ash was glad that Charizard's endurance have improved a lot from their training in Mt. Silver.

They are flying through the clouds. They can't see anything below them, until they saw a flash of light. Ash got curious as to what the light is, and so he commanded,

"Charizard, you saw the flash of light? Go down there."

The dragon-like Pokemon lowered its altitude, and they saw land below them. It seems they've arrived in Kalos. They didn't even know they've arrived 1 hour ago because of the clouds cutting there visions.

When they are nearing the ground, the flash of light seems to get brighter every meter they get closer.

They saw a small village. Ash wondered what the flashes of light were.

When the image got clearer, they saw a group of news reporters gathered in front of a house. Ash was about command Charizard to go up again to avoid seeing by them since he is quite popular the moment he became Pokemon Master, until…

"I don't know where she is!"

Ash heard a familiar voice, and so he went near in front of the house, maintaining there stealth. He saw Grace, standing, talking to the news reporters. What? She doesn't know where she is? Is she refering to Serena? Wait, is this her hometown?

Ash went in front of the news reporters with Charizard blocking the reporters' views, and greeted Grace with a warm smile.

"Hi Grace! Long time no see."

"Oh, why hello Ash. I think this is not the perfect place to talk. Let's get inside." Grace insisted.

"I agree." Ash said

They went inside Grace's house, but before Charizard went in, it unleashed a loud roar to the reporters, resulting them taking several steps back from fear of getting Flamethrowered. The door shut closed. Ash returned his powerhouse to its Pokeball.

"So, this is…" Ash said.

"Vaniville Town." Grace completed his sentence. He didn't know the name of the hometown Serena lives in.

"You want some snacks? Juice?" Grace asked.

"Oh, no, I'm good." Ash said. He sat on a nearby couch. Grace sat too, facing him. Pikachu then sat beside him.

"So, what brings you here in Vanivilla Town? I assume you're here to see my daughter." Grace said, teasing Ash. She knew that Serena has a huge crush on him. She is her mother after all, so she has every right to know her secrets. She want to see how Ash would react to those words.

"Y-yeah, that is the case." Ash said, scratching his cheek. "So, is she here?" Ash asked. He wanted to confirm if Grace does not really know where she currently is.

"…Unfortunately, no she's not." Grace said. "She hasn't come home for two years. I'm really worried about her, considering she's really popular now. She might have been…" Grace said, her hands on her head, thinking where she possibly is, and not imagining the worst possible scenerios her daughter might be in.

"She's popular? What happened two years ago?" Ash asked in curiosity.

"She was crowned the new Kalos Queen. I saw her on TV. You didn't know" Grace asked.

"N-no, I don't. After all, Tripokalons are only exclusive here in Kalos. News about it won't go out to other regions." Ash said.

"So, she finally did it." Ash thought.

True." Grace said. Why haven't she come home yet?" Grace thought of many reasons why she hasn't return to her hometown. She thought of Serena not wanting to practice Rhyhorn racing. She thought she was a horrible mother, forcing her daughter to do something she doesn't want to do. She felt regret making her do so for the past years before she went to her journey.

"I think it has something to do with her career." Ash said. "I've been there; news reporters everywhere, not wanting to distance themselves from me. They're really annoying if you become a celebrity." He added.

"So you're…" Grace said.

"A Pokemon Master." Ash completed her sentence.

"Wow! I know it's a bit late, but congratulations!" Grace said with a smile.

"Hehe, thanks." Ash said, smiling back.

Ash looked to his surroundings. He saw a line of picture frames on a drawer. He walked up and looked at it. It portrayed a young Serena and her mother, together with a Rhyhorn. There's more to its side. It seems like they're arranged accoring to Serena's age, from a younger Serena to the present. He gently touched the picture frame, wondering where she could be. He just realized, upon becoming known around the world, one would want to be isolated from the rest of the people. That was another reason he came to Mt. Silver. He also wondered how May and Dawn were doing since he knew their dream is to become Top coordinators. They would have to deal with some disturbance. The name May made his heart crumble from dread, and so he wiped that thought off of his mind.

Since he doesn't have any clue where Serena is, he might as well look for some clues, and so he said,

"I'm going to Lumious City to look for clues. I'll be sure to find her once I get enough clues." Ash said walking up to the door. Pikachu followed him and hopped on his shoulders.

"Oh, thank you so much, Ash. Just be careful out there." Grace said.

"Why? Is there something I should look out for?" Ash asked.

"Oh, forget what I said. It's just some silly rumors I've heard. Take care of yourself." Grace said.

"Oh, ok. Bye Grace." Ash said, walking out the house, waving at her.

As he was walking towards the town's exit, he wondered about what Grace had mentioned to him. 'Be careful out there.' What would be out there, anyway? If it's threat, it'll be a walk in a park for him.

_________________________________________________________________​

Somewhere in Lumious City, sitting on a table in a café, a girl wearing a green bandana, an orange sleeveless shirt and black spandex was taking a sip on her coffee. It made her squeal in delight.

"This is the best coffee I've ever tasted!" She said, taking another sip, and eventually drinking it whole. The intense heat of the coffee didn't bother her though. She wiped some coffee on her mouth, put the money on the table, and went out the café.

"Now, where is the stadium?" She asked herself, even though she already knew where it was. She walked towards its location. As she was walking on the sidewalk, she saw a girl with a honey blonde hair, wearing a black tank top with a white collar, a red skirt, black running shoes and black knee socks, and a Gardevoir beside her walk in the opposite sidewalk. She heard of her somewhere, but she can't tell where, though she knew her name. She began walking towards her, and said;

"Hi! You're Serena, aren't you?" She said.

Gardevoir began to release its Psychic energy. The girl gasped in fright, but the Pokemon was stopped by Serena.

"No, don't. It's ok." She said. "You look familiar. What's your name?" She turned and asked the girl. Serena thought she have seen this girl somewhere, but, like the girl, she can't tell where.

"Oh, my apologies. I'm May. Nice to meet you." May said with a smile. She stretched an arm, signifying a handshake. But before she accept the gesture, she said,

"You're May?! I've seen you in magazines! You're a Top Coordinator!" Serena said in surprise, then accepted the gesture.

"Hehe. I get that a lot." May said, scratching the back of her head.

"I know I've heard of you before. I just can't tell where…" May said, thinking.

"Oh. Tripokalons are only exclusive here in Kalos, so news wouldn't really go out to other regions. Also, if you've heard me, I think you've heard me as the Kalos Queen." Serena said.

"Oh, Tripokalons. They're like contests, but no battles, right?" May asked.

"That's right." Serena said with a smile.

May's Holocaster began to vibrate, indicating that she's late for her contest.

"Oops. I'm late for my contest. I gotta go. See you later!" May said, sprinting towards the stadium.

"You too!" Serena said, returning to her duty.

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Chapter 3 coming right up...

 

[Blood Red]

I don't think I'll be able to give you any good critical advice without coming off as rude, so I'll just say that you've done a good job so far.

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 3: The Fateful Encounter​

In the late Maple's house, in the living room, on the couch sits Serena, brushing her Braixen's fur. The fox-like Pokemon can't get enough of the feeling of getting its fur brushed. It definitely likes it, considering it likes being neat like its trainer. Mawile is outside, watering the flowers that Maple took care of for a long time. It inherited her love for nature. It loved nature just as much, if not more than Maple loved it for its beauty. Like Maple always said, 'the beauty of nature indeed can't be compared to the aesthetics of art'.

Braixen then heard a growling sound coming from near it. It looked to its surroundings in alert. It then heard it again, this time louder. It looked to its trainer with an expression that asks the trainer where the sound is coming from. It then saw Serena covering her red face with her hand and her tummy with the other. It sighed in relief that it's only Serena getting hungry. Then it began laughing out loud from hearing, for the first time, Serena's tummy asking for food.

"H-hey! Stop laughing, Braixen. I'm just hungry, that's all." Serena said, not wanting to get embarrassed. It was the first time in many years since Ash's growling stomach she heard her tummy growl like that.

"Brai-braixen-xen-en!" "Ok-ok, I'll stop… Haha!" Braixen tried to resist its urge to laugh.

"Anyway, I'm gonna get some food. I'll be right back." Serena said, proceeding to the kitchen.

She went in front of the refrigerator and opened it. It seems like her tummy growled louder as she saw there was no food inside. She sighed an closed the refrigerator. She went back to the living room.

"I'll be gone for an hour, Braixen. It seems like we have no food. I can cook some. That is if I have the ingredients. You stay here and take care of the house, ok?" Serena said, taking a Pokeball from her back.

Serena went outside to inform Mawile that she would be gone for a while.

"Mawile wile" "What are you going to do there?" Mawile said.

"I'll get some food for us. It seems like we ran out of food." Serena said.

"Come out, Gardevoir!" Serena threw the Pokeball in the air and came out the white bipedal Pokemon.

"Gardevoir?" It said.

"Take me to Lumious City, Gardevoir." Serena commanded. "Take care of the house for me, Mawile." Serena said to Mawile.

"Mawile mawile." "All right. Take care." Mawile said.

"Gardevoir, Teleport." Serena commanded. Both Serena and Gardevoir disappeared in thin air.

________________________________________________________________​

*Swish*

Serena and Gardevoir appeared out of nowhere in Lumious City. As soon as they arrived, the people spotted her, and begin rushing towards her.

"Oh my Arceus! It's the Kalos Queen!" A fangirl shouted.

"Can I have an autograph?!" Another fangirl said.

"Oh please me too! I'm your biggest fan!" Another fangirl said. The large crowd of fans then began surrounding the honey-blonde girl.

"Gardevoir garde!" "I will not let you disturb m'lady!" Gardevoir said, preparing to use Hypnosis.

"Gardevoir, no. It's ok. It's not like they're reporters anyway. I just don't want to get bombarded with tons of questions." Serena said, making Gardevoir withdraw its Psychic powers.

After much time passed, Serena finally made the people satisfied with her autographs, and continued on with her duty.

When she was walking on the sidewalk with her Gardevoir, she saw a girl with a green bandana, an orange, sleeveless shirt, and black spandex walking on the opposite side of the sidewalk. She then thought that she looks familiar. The girl then saw her, and began walking towards her, and said,

"Hi! You're Serena, aren't you?" She said.

Gardevoir charged up its Psychic powers to unleash Hypnosis. The girl gasped in fright, but the Pokemon was stopped by Serena.

"No, don't. It's ok." She said. "Yes, I am. You look familiar. What's your name?" She turned and asked the girl. Serena thought she had seen this girl somewhere. She just can't tell where.

"Oh, my apologies. I'm May. Nice to meet you." May said with a smile. She stretched an arm, signifying a handshake. But before she accepts the gesture, she said,

"You're May?! I've seen you in magazines! You're a Top Coordinator!" Serena said in surprise, and then accepted the gesture.

"Hehe. I get that a lot." May said, scratching the back of her head.

"I know I've heard of you before. I just can't tell where…" May said, thinking.

"Oh. Tripokalons are only exclusive here in Kalos, so news wouldn't really go out to other regions. Also, if you've heard me, I think you've heard me as the Kalos Queen." Serena said.

"Oh, Tripokalons. They're like contests, but no battles, right?" May asked.

"That's right." Serena said with a smile.

May's Holocaster began to vibrate, indicating that she's late for her contest.

"Oops. I'm late for my contest. I gotta go. See you later!" May said, sprinting towards her destination.

"You too!" Serena said, returning to her duty.

She and Gardevoir went and arrived in front of a big Pokemart.

"Gardevoir, return!" Serena said, returning her Pokemon to its Pokeball and proceeded to enter the mart to buy some food.

________________________________________________________________​

"What does she mean, 'Be careful out there?" Ash asked himself, wondering what Grace had said to him. He is walking, and nearing his destination. Surprisingly, Lumious City is only an hour away. Ash didn't bother calling out Charizard. It needed some rest after a long journey to Kalos, so he decided to walk instead. It felt nostalgic for Ash since the last time he walked for a million miles with his traveling companions back then, only now he's alone with his starter Pokemon.

"Pika pi?" "You alright, Ash?" Pikachu said on his shoulders. It began to feel concerned with its trainer since they went their way to their destination.

"Oh, it's nothing, Pikachu, don't worry about it." Ash said.

After a long walk, they are finally in Lumious City.

"Lumious… It's been a long time since we've been here, right buddy?" Ash said.

"Pika!" "Yeah!" Pikachi said.

"Lumious… Clemont. Oh I've forgot that he lives here! Let's go to the gym! Maybe he's in there!" Ash said, running towards their next destination. Pikachu is holding on his shoulders for dear life yet again.

As he was running, he saw a familiar girl, running the opposite direction in the opposite sidewalk. The image was too blurry to distinguish since he was running really fast. She reminded him of May. He then erased the name May from his mind once more and continued running.

He arrived in front of Prism Tower. He went inside, and to the elevator. He pressed the button and began ascending.

When the elevator opened, he went in front of the door to the gym. It felt nostalgic for Ash since he had a horrible experience with this door. It felt like he would relive that moment as he stand in front of it.

Luckily, there was no voice, asking him if he has 4 badges. The door opened, and Ash saw Clemont, battling a trainer. It seems Clemont is battling with his ace, Heliolisk, while the trainer is battling with his Golem. Ash went to the sidelines to watch the exciting battle. It seems that he went there unnoticed.

"Heliolisk! Jump and use Thunderbolt!" Clemont commanded.

Heliolisk jumped high in the air and began gathering all its electricity to unleash a strong current of electricity onto the rock Pokemon.

"Golem! Use Rock Throw! Send it crashing to the ground!" The challenger commanded.

On the hand of the Golem appeared a small boulder and threw it to Heliolisk.

"Now shoot Thunderbolt upwards!" Clemont commanded.

Heliolisk then unleashed Thunderbolt up to the ceiling, causing Heliolisk to descend to the ground in a fast pace. The small boulder that was thrown to Heliolisk missed.

"Now use Bulldoze!" Clemont said

The yellow lizard-like Pokemon stomped the ground really hard as it landed. It created a big shock wave and hit the Golem hard. It was more than enough to knock it out since it was super effective.

"No! Golem!" The trainer shouted.

"Golem is unable to battle. The victory goes to Heliolisk. The winner is Clemont." Clembot said as the referee.

"Return." Both trainers called in their Pokemon to their respective Pokeballs.

"It seems that I need to have some more training. I'll be sure to get that badge. Just you wait!" The trainer said, walking out of the gym.

"I'll be looking forward to it!" Clemont said.

"You didn't change at all, Clemont." Ash said, walking from the sidelines towards Clemont, which caused the latter to look in surprise.

"Ash! It's been a long time! And how did you get there?" Clemont said.

"Haha! Didn't I tell you I'm a Psychic?" Ash joked.

"Hehe. If you're here to challenge me, I wouldn't win against you. You are the Pokemon Master after all." Clemont said, praising him.

"So news about me reached here too eh?" Ash said. "Anyway, I'm not here to challenge you to a Pokemon battle. I'm here to ask you something." He added.

"Sure. What is it you want to know?" Clemont said.

"Do you know where Serena is?" Ash said.

"Serena? All I heard about her is that she became Kalos Queen two years ago. And I heard that she disappeared after becoming one. In short, I don't know." Clemont said.

"Oh. Where could she be?" Ash said to himself.

"Why are you looking for her?" Clemont said, with a sly smile on his face.

"I-I was just want to know if she's doing fine." Ash said lamely.

"Haha! Ok I won't ask again if it makes you uncomfortable." Clemont said.

The two trainers then walked out if the gym. They shared their experience throughout the past years after their journey together; Ash's experience and Clemont's new strategies for Pokemon battles. Clemont also said that his inventions stopped exploding, indicating that his inventing skills are improving. They are currently walking on the sidewalk. They have no destination whatsoever. They just want to talk, like they used to when they were on their journey.

"Really? You might become a VIP someday, considering you invent things." Ash said.

"That's too much." Clemont said.

"By the way, where is Bonnie?" Ash said, curious as to where Bonnie is, considering that she wasn' with her brother in the gym.

"Oh. She's on her journey now. She went on her journey a year ago." Clemont said.

"Really? What's her starter Pokemon? Ash said?

"Fennekin. She said that she couldn't choose between Froakie, Chespin, and Fennekin since they were all cute. She went with Fennekin because, according to her, that Pokemon reminded her about Serena." Clemont said.

"Oh, I see." Ash said.

"Also to add; She wants to become a coordinator." Clemont added.

Ash then flinched from the word 'coordinator'. Ash then frowned from the word.

"You ok, Ash?" Clemont said.

"Y-yeah. I'm fine." Ash said.

They were about to turn to right, until somebody came from that direction and bumped onto Ash. She was holding what it seems to be half of a ribbon.

"'I'm sorry! I wasn't looki-" She said, bowing apologetically, until she saw Ash's face. They both froze on their spot as they saw each other's face.

"Ash?..." The girl said, her eyes glassy.

"May?..." Ash said, his heart beating from dread.

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Chaoter 4 coming your way...

 

[Blood Red]

I already read this chapter on FF and I enjoyed it, though I think the characters accepted Ash's reappearance too easily. He apparently vanished for years and people act like he went on a month-long vacation

 

[matthew11]

I already read this chapter on FF and I enjoyed it, though I think the characters accepted Ash's reappearance too easily. He apparently vanished for years and people act like he went on a month-long vacation

Take it as:

Grace seldomly met Satoshi through out his journey in Kalos, so he's not that a big deal to her. As for Citron, ahmm... He's not that crazy about him. I can't see him go all worry for him, yah know. Let's not get into him fanboying over him haha.

 

[Blood Red]

Take it as:

Grace seldomly met Satoshi through out his journey in Kalos, so he's not that a big deal to her. As for Citron, ahmm... He's not that crazy about him. I can't see him go all worry for him, yah know. Let's not get into him fanboying over him haha.

Man, if my best friend went missing years ago and suddenly reappeared, I'd at least give him a bro hug and ask him where he vanished and how his life's been, though I think I see what you're saying about Grace.

 

[matthew11]

Man, if my best friend went missing years ago and suddenly reappeared, I'd at least give him a bro hug and ask him where he vanished and how his life's been, though I think I see what you're saying about Grace.

You got a point about Citron. Oh well, the chapter's already created haha.

 

[Blood Red]

You got a point about Citron. Oh well, the chapter's already created haha.

I guess you could try explaining in later chapters why Clemont wasn't really surprised by Ash's reappearance.

 

[matthew11]

(filler chapter)

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Chapter 4: Broken Trust​

It all started the moment he met her. He was with Professor Birch, searching for Pikachu, who ran away in confusion since he had an electric overload. When he met her along the way, he felt that his world was going to change.

After rescuing his best buddy from the annoying Team Rocket, he was sleeping along side Pikachu, and muttered a few things in his sleep and Pikachu awakens. The mouse Pokémon then wakes him up, causing both to be happy that they're both okay. The boy was relieved that his Pokemon was ok. He thought he was going to lose him. Unbeknownst to him, the girl he met was watching the scene from the door slightly opened. She was angry at first when the mouse Pokemon elecrocuted her bike, but that faded away as she watched the heart-warming scene between Ash and Pikachu. This girl, too, felt that by meeting him, she would have a great time with him.

The girl, May, was outside Birch's lab, releasing her starter Pokemon from its Pokeball, Torchic. Ash came out, with Pikachu on his shoulder. May greets Ash, and Pikachu hopped off his shoulders to play with the small fire chick Pokemon. They watched as their Pokemon play around the field. May then makes a few remarks about going alone. Then she purposely says she would have, but Pikachu destroyed her bike while rescuing him. May asks Ash if she could come along with him. He was stunned at the moment, and then agreed to.

They've been traveling for quite a while. They've learned so much from each other. The one thing that they most likely have in common is that they have big appetite. As they were talking inside the Pokemon Center, the two of them shyly looked away from each other, feeling there faces heat up on the sound of their stomach asking for food. This was unusual for Ash. He didn't feel embarrassed of his stomach growling when he was on his journey with Misty and Brock.

A few days later, when Ash was eager to ask some few trainers about the Petalburg gym leader, May desperately grab his hand and asks him if they could go eat instead, and if he could show her around the Pokémon Center so he wouldn't find out her dad is the Gym Leader. She didn't want him to treat her differently upon knowing the truth.

When they arrived in Petalburg City, Ash immediately went and challenged its gym leader. May wasn't with him then, and so he went on his own. It was then he felt that he wasn't motivated to challenge the gym leader anymore. Why is that? The he thought of May. What does she have to do with this? He didn't want to blame her for that silly problem, and so he wipe that thought away from his mind.

Ash was about to battle a nerdy-looking boy who claimed that he was the gym leader. Then, May came in with two other people. She then asks the boy what he was doing acting as the gym leader. It turns out that the boy was her younger brother, Max. Ash then knew that Max was too young to even be a trainer. When he learned that May and Max's father, Norman, was the real gym leader, Ash was surprised, and looked at May, shyly looking away, and gave a glare to her younger brother.

While having lunch, Norman decided to temporarily change the rules of the gym for him. And since it wasn't official, Ash didn't mind at all as he was just looking forward to his first Pokemon battle in Hoenn.

When the battle was over, resulting in Ash's lost, the wall suddenly exploded, and Team Rocket stole May's Torchic. This caused her to fall on her knees in despair. Upon seeing her, Ash reassures her that he will get her Pokemon back, no matter what. After hearing his statement, she felt her cheeks heat up a little. It was the first time he showed determination in front of her, and felt like that kind of determination is something that is impossible to break.

After they have rescued her Torchic, Ash and May was about to resume their journey, until they stopped on their tracks after hearing a bone-breaking statement from May's annoying younger brother; Max said that he wants to travel with them. The two trainers looked at each other. They wanted to travel alone, but they didn't want to hurt his feelings by telling him he can't go with them, and so they accepted.

Along the way, they met Brock, Ash's long-time traveling companion. It was perfect-timing that Brock was here. On their way to wherever they are heading, he secretly told him stories about how he met her and what happened from there. He accidentally told him that he feels strange around May. Brock had a pretty good idea of what he felt, and he teased him about it, saying he had grown into a fine young man, which Ash let it slide since he asked Brock to help him with it.

As they were traveling, thanks to Brock's lectures, Ash and May were closer than ever. May felt like he might be the one to shape her future. He continuously taught her how to be a better trainer. And even though they were like in a student-teacher relationship, May loved him. Her love for him slowly grew as time passes. Though he doesn't even know the word yet, Ash loved her. He loved her as much as, if not more than he loved his Pokemon. He wasn't sure about what he was feeling then. He always felt his chest tighten whenever May was around, whenever she compliments him, whenever she was beside him, although she was always beside him. They have a bond so strong that even the strongest Pokemon with the strongest move wouldn't even leave a scratch on it. It was, until someone had to jump into the picture.

In the city of Slateport, the group was on a beach and May was training her Beautifly for her first contest. She threw Frisbees to her Pokemon, who gently Gusts them back. May gracefully caught the first two but the third one flew over her head. The group then turned to see it fly straight to a green-haired boy who was watching from the boardwalk. He caught the Frisbee easily and twirled it on his finger while stating that May isn't a very good contestant for a Contest. May got mad as the Frisbee is thrown at her feet

The boy jumped down and May angrily introduces herself. The boy introduced himself as Drew, and told her that she needs a lot of practice. May became enraged and lunges at him, but he held up his hand and casually pushes her back.

Ash, Max, and Brock approached and asked what is going on. Drew told May that her Pokémon is second rate and there's no way it can win an official Contest. May was enraged by that insulting statement. She tried to lunge again, but he pushed her back the same way as before. She still tried to run at him, but he easily kept her at bay. Ash, feeling anger rush up to his face, tells him to stop insulting May's Pokémon, but Drew just flips back his hair and laughs. Ash was about to lunge at him, but was stopped by Brock, saying a fight isn't going to bring good to him.

After May and Drew's battle was interupted by Team Rocket stealing the Bluk berries and eventually sent blasting off by Ash's Pikachu's Thunderbolt and Drew's Rosalia's Solar Beam, everyone watched as Torchic rushed towards the Berry. It leaped high into the air and grabbed it. It seemed happy with itself, and then realized it's falling off a cliff. Beautifly saved it with String Shot and Torchic is placed in May's arms. She hugged it and then she turned to Drew, telling him that she can't wait to face him in the Contest, and Drew said he looks forward to it. He added that she surprised him today, seeing her Beautifly used Silver Wind successfully, and he can't wait to see what she can do at the Contest. He recalled Roselia and then heads off, with May watching him go. Seeing her look at him with sparkling eyes, Ash wondered if Drew will have a definite impact on their relationship.

A year has passed, and during that year, Drew became May's version of Gary in the way he treated and spoke to her, criticizing her skills and generally being haughty. As a result, May was immensely irked by his actions, and sometimes even lost her confidence in her abilities. The nature of their relationship gradually changed as time passed by. Drew had complimented May's skills by giving her roses, and she seems to accept them casually, but only as a sign of serious rivalry. At one point, when Drew delivered his third rose, May asked him rather coyly if the rose is for Beautifly again, suspicious as to the true nature of his roses. Drew slightly admits that the roses aren't really for Beautifly. This news warned Ash that he can take May from him, which he does not like to happen in his life time. Ash was wary of him since then, but he was not aware that May's feelings are changing, nor did he even know she had feelings for him.

__________________________________________________ ______________​

When they were in Chrysanthemum Island back in Kanto for May to participate in the contest there. Ash was training Sceptile and commanded it to used Bullet Seed, but only smoke came out of its mouth.

"Poor Sceptile. It must still be feeling the pain of a broken heart." May said.

"Hey, come on! You can do those moves! You have to try harder! Get that stuff out of your mind and do it!" Ash said harshly.

"You're just making it worse, y'know." A voice said. The group then look towards the direction the sound came from. They saw Drew walking towards them.

"You're not thinking about from Sceptile's point of view." Drew said.

"D-Drew!" May said

"Telling your Pokemon to try harder only gives them more stress, and you don't need that, right?" Drew said to Ash, lecturing him while patting Sceptile.

Ash could only grit his teeth from a little anger.

"Uh, hey Drew. Did you send this to me?" May asked, revealing a card which was given to her a few days ago, though there was no name written on it. She assumed that Drew was the one who sent it.

"See, I'd love to be in the contest with you, but mark my words! This time, I'm gonna beat you, get it?" May said.

"Except, I didn't send that." Drew corrected.

"Huh?" May said.

"Come on. It's not my style *flips hair*. You should know that." Drew said.

"We should, huh?" The group said. Pikachu was pointing at Drew for blushing.

"Truthfully, I'm not even going to be in this contest." Drew said.

"Huh? You're not?" May asked.

"I've been in so many contests lately my Pokemon are wiped, so we came to this place for a little break." Drew said.

"But if you didn't send me this, then who did?" May asked, wondering who sent the letter to her.

Later, Drew went his way, and the group was on the beach, watching May train her Munchlax and Combusken. She told Munchlax to use Focus Punch on Combusken. Munchlax charged at Combusken with its hand glowing, but Combusken dodged it by jumping, and Munchlax was about to hit a young girl holding a rose behind Combusken.

"Watch out!" The group said. The girl then notices Munchlax heading her way, and she ducked. Munchlax crashed onto the sand and was now half-buried.

"I'm so sorry. Are you ok?" May asked, walking towards the girl.

"Yeah, but I'm not sure about your Munchlax." The girl said. Ash, Brock, and Max was pulling Munchlax out of the sand, and were successful.

"That Munchlax… I guess we were a little overly psyched." May said.

"That's 'cause you lost in the Wisteria contest and Munchlax wants to make up for it, right?" The girl said.

"H-how did you know about that contest?" May asked.

"I was there! I really wanted to meet you when it was over, but I didn't. I thought you might be feeling bad after you lost. So I left the rose and the card instead." The girl said.

"So… This card came from you?" May asked.

"Yup! And now I've gotten to meet you in person. Oh yeah. I'm Brianna-" The girl introduced herself, handing over the rose she held but was eaten by Muchlax.

"Munchlax, how rude!" May said.

"Hey, I'm glad that Munchlax likes roses too." Brianna said.

"Thanks, but about the card. The confusion started because you forgot to put your name on it." May said, raising her hand with the card.

"Huh?!" Brianna said, taking the card from May to see if it was true.

"Oh! That's awful. I'm sorry." Brianna said, bowing apologetically.

"That's ok. I thought it was from a friend named Drew, and I just asked him about it." May said.

"You did? You mean Mr. Drew's here right now?!" Brianna said, eyes glassy and cheeks red.

"Uh-Mister?" May said, confused.

The two then went where Drew went - to the resort.

"See, there he is." May said as Drew came in sight, shirtless.

"Oh, you're right!" Brianna said, cheeks still red.

"I can introduce you to him." May said, and realized what she said immediately. She doesn't want any contests to get him. What? What did she just thought of? She couldn't mean throwing Ash's trust out of the window.

"That'd be awesome!" Brianna said. Well, there's no getting out of this now.

The walked towards the green-haired boy to introduce Brianna to him.

"Drew!" May said.

"Oh, hey. What's up? Drew said.

"I've got a new friend. Her name's Brianna. She's a big fan of yours who became a coordinator after watching you perform." May said.

"Wow. You did. Hey thank you." Drew said.

"I-t's n-nice… To m-meet you." Brianna said nervously.

"Oh yeah. It was Brianna who sent me that card." May said.

"It was my fault! I didn't write my name on it. I feel like total fool." Brianna said.

"You didn't do anything wrong. May just made another silly mistake." Drew said, insulting her once again.

"There's only one person who would send me something like that, mister rose." May retorted.

"M-mister rose?" Drew said, his felt the red taking over his cheeks, but resisted it.

"Anyway, nice to meet you, Brianna." Drew said, gesturing a hand-shake.

"I-it's nice to meet you too…" Brianna said, accepting the gesture.

"You've done this before, right?" May said, slyly.

"And you talk too much…" Drew said.

"Anyway, good luck in the contest." Drew said, walking away until he is out of sight.

"Wow… He's cute." Brianna said, and her lovestruck facial expression turned into fiery determination.

"So! It's you and me!" Brianna said, turning back to May.

"H-huh?" May said in confusion.

"I'm aiming for you in this contest and I'm gonna win!" Brianna declared.

"But why me?" May asked.

"Look, I've seen every contest you and Drew have entered, get it?! And I know for a fact that you're the only female coordinator Drew has respect for." Brianna said.

"I-I didn't know that." May said, her sweat dropping.

"Duhh. I may be inexperience in having to win a ribbon yet, but someday I'll be a first-class coordinator and Drew will respect me too! And I figured the quickest way to earn his respect is to beat you! So get ready for a fight!" Brianna said.

May was stunned at the sudden burst of determination from Brianna. She knew Drew was popular, but she just met a fangirl in front of her. And declared that she's going to win to earn his respect. That bothered her a little, though she didn't know why. Nonetheless, she wasn't going to allow her to beat her.

The contest started. Ash, Brock, Max, and Drew were on the sidelines cheering May on. Each coordinator went through the appeal rounds, but only a few will manage to get out, and May and Brianna were now standing in front of big TV to see if they did qualify to the next round.

"Alright! Here are the coordinators who qualified for the next round!" The MC said, pointing at the big screen behind her. It showed May and Brianna's image on the screen. Both trainers sighed in relief.

"Watch closely, Drew. You're going to see a win you'll never forget." May said to herself.

"We'll see" Brianna said beside her.

"I'm finally going to get a chance to show Drew I'm a winner." May said.

"Come on, May!" Brianna said.

"Huh?" May said in confusion.

"It seems to me your feelings for Drew go way beyond contests and battles." Brianna said.

"H-Huh? M-me and Drew? He's… just a rival. That's all." May said convincingly.

"Oh yeah! Well I wanna know if you like Drew!" Brianna said.

"L-like him?! To be honest… I didn't really give it that much thought…" Mays said, blushing. It seems the words came out half-way.

"For your information, as soon as I win this contest, I'll tell Drew I love him!" Brianna said.

"That's fine with me expect for the 'as soon as I win this contest' part…" May said.

They went through so many battles; May used Combusken and Brianna used Vibrava. And they faced off in the final round, to which May came out the winner. Both trainers were in the beach, watching the sun set, reflecting upon their contest performances.

"You were great! Really great! I can see why Mr. Drew has total respect for your talent" Brianna said.

"That means a lot to me, Brianna. Thank you." May said.

"Tell you what; when I finally win a ribbon, then I'll tell him how I feel." Brianna declared.

"Hey, you guys!" Max said, with Ash, Brock, and Drew walking along side him towards the two trainers.

"I had a feeling we'de find you two here." Brock said.

"Oh no, May! It's Drew!" Brianna said, hiding behind May shyly.

"You two sure know how to make a great battle" Ash said, scratching his cheeks.

"That was a great win too, May." Max said.

"That makes three ribbons, right?" Brock asked, to which May nods.

"Hey, Drew. I was wondering how you thought about my battle skills since you last saw me." May said.

"To tell the truth, I thought you got lucky with that Mega Kick. If I were you, I'd be grateful." Drew said, flipping his hair.

"Gee, thanks." May said irritatingly.

"Brianna. That's your name, right?" Drew asked as he walked closer to the two girls.

"Uh- Yes sir!" Brianna said.

"You were good. It's obvious that you've raised your Vibrava well. It's hard work making it all the way to Flygon, but you'll do it." Drew said.

"Thanks! I'll work extra hard! Ahhh…" Brianna said, fainting.

"Whoa, Brianna!" May said, catching Brianna from falling.

"He sure knows how to make an impression." Max said.

"Like fingernails on a blackboard…" Brock said.

"Hey, May." Drew said, calling her attention.

"Huh?" May said.

"… Just two more ribbons." Drew said, with a little pause at the beginning.

"Uh… Drew… Just curious. How many do you have?" May said, beginning to blush.

"It's obvious! In your case, I figured you might need someone to remind you." Drew said, walking away.

As he walks off into the distance, May watches him and, little does she know, she is blushing. Ash, upon looking at her, suddenly has all of his hopes crushed, just like that. But he wouldn't give up, not while he still loves her.

__________________________________________________ ______________​

After many days passed, Ash found himself at a dead end after losing against Brandon twice in a row, and so was May, who lost against Solidad in the final round of the Kanto Grand festival. Ash was in a hot spirng, thinking about the phrase Brandon said to him "A battle only you can perform". He thought that it was all May's fault. Upon seeing her blushing from Drew's impressions and roses, his hopes and dreams went down the drain. And so his confidence shrunk into nothingness. He thought she loved Drew. And now, he doesn't know what to do. There were only two things in his mind; the Battle Pyramid, and May.

May was currently in a small contest hall inside the Pokemon Center with her Beautifly and Skitty. She was sitting on the edge of the stage, and her Pokemon went to her

"Beau, beautifly." "We should practice, May" Beautifly said.

"You're right. We should." May said, getting up on her feet.

"Could it be that…" Brock said as he watch her practice again from the entrance of the hall with Scott.

"Yes. Ash's battle with Brandon made her remember her loss at the Grand Festival." Scott said.

"And that her own battle-style is resembling Ash's." Brock added.

"Exactly. The more experienced trainers and coordinators become, the more obstacle they will face.

"Let's test a new combination attack." May said.

"Alright! Skitty, use Blizzard! Beautifly, use Psychic!" May commanded.

They did as they were commanded, but the result wasn't the one expected.

"Oh! It's Beautifly and Skitty!" Max said, entering and walking towards the stage with Ash.

"It's been a long time!" Ash said. Pikachu went and greeted its friends.

"I heard from mom that Beautifly has learned Psychic, so I had it transferred.

"That's so great, sis!" Max said.

"But our combination attack still doesn't work well. What about you, Ash?" May asked. Ash looked down.

"I just can't figure how to battle in my own way." Ash said.

"I see." May said.

"Well then, why don't you have a practice battle together? Isn't that better than just training by yourself?" Max suggested.

"A battle… with Ash? May asked to herself.

"That's a great idea! Let's do it, May!" Ash said.

"We can't!" May said.

"Uh-" Ash said in surprise.

"… I don't think it would be of much help if Ash battled me…" May said.

This got Ash thinking. She didn't decline a battle with him before. Maybe she wants a battle, contest-wise. She might be thinking of Drew.

"Ash!" A voice called out. They turned to see Professor Oak, with a large bag.

"Oh! Professor Oak! Why are you here? Ash said.

"I've came for a cheer-up visit." Oak said.

"A cheer-up visit?" Ash said.

They were back in the Pokemon Center hall to see what's inside Oak's bag.

"Prof, what's in that bag?" Ash said, unable to wait.

"It's a surprise, wait until you see it." Oak said.

The people around were amazed at Oaks appearance, and they took pictures of him.

"When your Pokemon heard that you were having a hard time at the last battle facility, they decided to send a message to cheer you on." Oak said, pulling out a big banner from the bag.

"My Pokemon?" Ash said.

"Yes. It's quite an interesting opus." Oak said, kneeling down and rolling the banner to reveal many foot prints of Ash's Pokemon.

"Whoa. This is… That's great!" Ash said. He pointed out the names of his Pokemon while looking at the foot prints.

"That's cool! You can recognize them at first sight!" Max said.

"These are all my friends, after all." Ash said.

"They made this just for me… and put so much effort into it… Thank you Professor Oak!" Ash said.

"Don't thank me. I just brought this here, that's all." Oak said.

"There's much more here." Oak said, standing up. He pulled out a bento box out of the bag, opened it, and revealed a delicious meal.

"Wow! It looks delicious!" Ash said.

"Your mother has put a lot of love into this lunch, and if you eat this, you'll recover a hundredfold!" Oak said.

"Oh, and I got this for you." Oak said, pulling a lure out of his pocket.

"It's Kasumi's lure!" Ash said, getting the lure.

"The Misty Special, huh?" Brock said.

"That's a funny lure." May said.

"I bet you can fish well with that one." Max said.

"Fishing is a good way to relax when something worries you." Oak said.

"Yes. Thank you very much." Ash said, putting the lure in his pocket.

"And at last, this is a post card Gary sent…" Oak said, pulling it out of his pocket.

"Gary?" Ash said.

"From the Sinnoh Region." Oak said, showing the postcard.

"He's researching many Pokemon there right now." Oak said.

"…Sinnoh Region…" Ash said.

"It's farther north than Kanto. There are many Pokemon that can only be found in that area." Oak said.

"I see… Gary's also doing his best out there…" Ash said. He then pictured him in his mind.

"Pull yourself together, Ash" Gary said.

"G-Gary?" Ash said.

"You have defeated me. Don't tell me you're satisfied with your current losing streak." Gary said.

"I know…" Ash said.

"Are you sure? Then you should start moving forward." Gary said.

"I will win! This time I'll definitely…" Ash said, but didn't continue as he saw Gary walking away.

"I don't have the time to keep you company and just stand there. Hahahaha!" Gary said, out of sight.

In the real world, Ash's hat seems to shadow his eyes.

"Hmm?" Oak said.

"What's wrong, Ash?" May said.

"That's right! I don't have the time to stand still! Alright! I'll show him!" Ash said, doing his usual triumph pose.

"Before you know it, he's in high spirits again." Max said.

"Ah! It's Professor Oak! Will you sign this book with 'for Nurse Joy' please?" Nurse Joy said, coming up to him with her eyes brimming with excitement.

"If it isn't the grand Pokemon Poem Encyclopedia! The first edition too!" Oak said, signing the book.

"We'll show him, Pikachu. This time, we'll definitely win!" Ash said to Pikachi on his shoulders. May looks at Ash, remembering her rival, Drew.

"Rivals, huh?" She said. A Roselia came up to May, which surprised her and the group.

"Isn't this…" May said, kneeling down.

"Hey. I'm surprised to see you here." Drew said, walking up to them. May stands up.

"Drew!" She said.

"Oh my! Are you Drew for real? Could I please, please have an autograph?" Nurse Joy said.

"Hu-Huuhh…" Drew said, sweat-dropping.

Drew and May were in the Contest Hall; May sitting on the edge and Drew tending to Roselia.

"It surprised me. Just when I was thinking about you, you suddenly appeared." May said, seemingly telling that she has feelings for him.

"Thinking… About me?" Drew said, surprised. May then realized what she had said and blushed.

"Th-that's not what I meant!" May said convincingly.

"… Earlier, we were talking about Ash's rivals, and then I thought that my rival would be you…" May said.

"…It's an honor to hear that. So, what have you been doing since then?" Drew said.

"Me?... What about you? What have you been doing?" May said, dodging the question.

"There's only one thing a coordinator defeated in battle should do; working on himself and his Pokemon. Preferrably with a new partner too." Drew said.

"I…" May said.

"…still can't forget about the match with Solidad." Drew completed her sentence. May looked at him with a surprised expression.

"You found your own weakness, but have no idea how to overcome it. Is it something along those lines?" Drew asked, to which May sadly nods.

"Well then, why don't we have a battle? Drew suggested, standing up.

"What? Why are you asking me all of a sudden?" May said.

"Just because. They have such a wonderful stage here, and I still want revenge for that match at the Grand Festival." Drew said.

"But… I…" May said.

"Do it, May!" Ash said, walking up to them with Brock and Max.

"You've been challenged by a rival."Ash said.

"That's right!" Max said.

"Besides, isn't it better to get moving instead of being list in thought?" Brock said.

"O-of course…" May said, and looked up to Drew. They both stared at each other's eyes for a while. May stood up.

"Ok. I'll try! But I won't go easy on you in this battle!" She said.

"I wouldn't want you to, either." Drew said.

"That's the way to go!" Ash said.

"We could ask the professor and Nurse Joy to be the judges!"

Max went to call them, but was stopped at the sight of Contesta, Nurse Joy, and Mr. Sukizo

"Please wait a second!" Nurse Joy said.

"If you're looking for a contest judge, leave it to me, Contesta." Contesta said.

"Remarkable!" Mr. Sukizo said.

"…and me, Nurse Joy!" Nurse Joy said rather weirdly.

"Contesta? Mr. Sukizo? Huh, Nurse Joy?" The three boys said suspiciously.

"Please, start your performance!" The three judges said, going to there places. The group then looked at them with suspicious eyes.

"Somehow, they're acting strangely…" May said.

"Bullet Seed!" A familiar voice said. A Cacturne jumped from behind May and shoot multiple seeds towards the three judges. After the smoke cleared, they've been revealed as Team Rocket.

"Team Rocket!" Ash said.

"I knew you were suspicious!" May said. The Cacturne then went in front of the group, facing the three Rocket grunts. Then, Harley appeared before the three and slammed his hands at the table.

"You three, are you trying to disturb May again?" Harley said.

"Harley?" May said.

"Don't misinterpret this. The only one allowed to make you cry is me!" Harley said, looking back at May.

"I won't let this three get in the way!" Harley said, turning back at the three.

"Let's get out of here!" The three said, beginning to run away, but was stopped by Cacturne blocking the way. They kneeled down, defeated.

"Now, now. You've come al the way here, why not stay a little longer. Especially you, Jessie. Wouldn't be good to watch the battle between those two?" Harley said from behind them.

"Now I see! To win a contest someday, I've got to know about my opponents battling techniques." Jessie said.

"You still haven't given up? Meowth said in surprise.

"Of course not!" Jessie said.

"And with that, we will serve as the audience for today." Harley said, walking up to the group.

"You're just doing this to distract my sister again!" Max said.

"Oh no, I would never do such a thing." Harley said, patting Max's back.

"Not today, anyway." Harley said quietly.

"I'm fine with it, I guess." May said.

Max then went and called Oak, Nurse Joy, and Scott to be the judges of the battle. When the battle was about to start, many spectators entered and watched the battle. The battle went well, but May lost eventually to a now more experienced Drew. She went and thanked her Pokemon for doing a great job. She looked at Drew, who was bowing to the audience, with glassy eyes and smiling. May finally opened her own eyes thanks to him and his Pokemon.

They were on the cliff nearby, with May sitting and Drew standing, resting his arms on the wooden barrier. They were watching the sun set. It was a beautiful sight for them. And, for May, it was also romantic.

"I think that I would've done better if I only stayed focused." May said.

"Yeah, you can't allow yourself to lay back for one moment." Drew said.

"That's right. Maybe I was too relieved when I beat you. It's not right to be satisfied with that if you really want to become a Top-Coordinator. But after today's battle, I've finally realized something." May said, looking up to Drew.

"Once you told me that you want to make your Pokemon shine in a way only you can do it. I also want to find a technique of my own to bring out the beauty of my Pokemon, in a way only I can do it. Even if I can't travel the world…" May said.

"I see." Drew said.

A comfortable silence enveloped their surroundings. The sunset was an absolute beauty to end the day for both of them.

"What are going to do now?" May asked.

"I'm going to Johto to compete in contests there. And Solidad's gonna be there too." Drew said.

"Not to mention Harley…" May said.

"Well, I'll be going now. Thanks for the great battle today, May. See you." Drew said, walking off towards his next destination.

Ever since Drew started to give her roses, he said that it was for her Beautifly, but, at the beginning, she didn't believe him. It was true that they were for May herself. Drew wasn't the type of person to speak out his feelings. It's not his 'style'. But eventually, he will have feelings towards her, or maybe he already did, and then say it in front of her. May, on the otherhand, already fell inlove with someone else before she even met him, but her heart raised her up from Ash and fell for Drew instead. She wasn't sure what she was feeling now. She would have to choosing between Ash and Drew, which is a hard decision for her. May tried everything in her power to choose Ash, but, while thinking back, Ash haven't done anything for her. Drew did, but Ash was always with her, never leaving her side, but still. She was confused. But a thought had crossed her mind; what if Ash doesn't feel the same? That clearly suggests that May should go for Drew instead, and so…

"W-wait!" May said, stopping Drew.

"Hmm?" Drew said.

"Drew… Thanks you also for the battle today…" May said, still constructing the words she had in mind.

"Heh. No problem." Drew said, continue to walk off, until…

"I-I love you!" May finally said the words.

"Huh?" Drew said, looking back at her. He saw her blushing feverishly, and her hands against her heart. It felt to May that a heavy weight had lifted from her chest. But another weight crashed down as she saw Ash, standing a distance away, dumbfounded. He had an expression so unclear that she doesn't know if he's happy for her or not.

"Ash…" May said.

"May… We should go back." Ash said. He looked at Drew one more time, but this time, relaxed.

"You're going to Johto right? Good luck then." Ash said to Drew emotionlessly.

"Thanks, you too." Drew said, and walked away.

May felt guilty. She now knows that Ash had feelings for her, pondering on Ash's expression and voice. He was… somewhat mad, but kept it in place.

__________________________________________________ ______________​

During their time left, Ash was a bit cold towards May. She wondered if this was about her sudden confession to Drew. Brock and Max seems to not notice this. Ash was trying his hardest to not stay mad at her. Of course she would choose any guy she likes. He doesn't have any claim over her. She wasn't his girlfriend in the first place. Why would he stay mad at her?

After Ash had finally won against Brandon, and declined an offer of becoming a frontier brain, they headed for Terracotta Town, and that place would become their last destination together. Everyone has planned to go home soon; May and Max taking a ship to Hoenn, Brock to Pewter City, and Ash to Pallet Town. As the group checked out the town, May finds a sign for a special Pokemon Contest. May signs up for it. Ash shocks everyone by deciding to enter as well since it wasn't an official Contest, meaning he doesn't need a pass.

Nurse Joy was the MC, doing her best Lillian impersonation. May went first, impressing the crowd by having Eevee use Dig and Shadow Ball to create a fireworks display. Ash was equally impressive when Pikachu used Quick Attack, Thunderbolt, and Iron Tail to create electric rings that buzz around the arena. At the end of the first round, May was in first place with Ash a close second, both of them advancing to the finals against each other.

The contest resumed, and Ash and May shook hands and start the battle. When Blaziken dodged all of Sceptile's attacks, Ash started to lose points. He finally connects with Pound, but Blaziken returned with Fire Spin. The two Pokémon begin to lose points at roughly the same rate. Eventually both Pokémon are weakened, and Sceptile's Ability Overgrow kicked in. Blaziken's Ability Blaze also appeared, and the two commence their battle. Eventually Blaziken fires Overheat and Sceptile responds with SolarBeam, with the two attacks colliding. The results of this attack will determine the outcome of the match, but no one can see the scoreboard, now obscured by a thick cloud of smoke.

The smoke was finally cleared, and the winner is revealed—it is a tie between May and Ash! Both are declared the winner with only one prize medal between the two, so Sceptile cuts it neatly in half.

They were enjoying one last meal together at a nearby park near the port. The sun was setting, so May and Max would be aware that they have only have little time left.

"It's done! To celebrate Ash and May's double victory, I have – look at the steam – gone all out on ingredients" Brock said, putting down the delicious and hot soup on the table.

"You sure did! Everything looks tasty!" Max said

"Come on, let's dig in!" Ash said.

"Wait a second." May said, causing everyone to look at her.

"Before that, there's something I want to talk about." May said.

"What is it?" Ash said.

"I've been thinking about it for a while now… I'm going to challenge Pokemon Contests in Johto by myself." May declared. This caused Max to display a shocked expression. Ash had a pretty good idea why she would go there.

"By yourself? What about Max?" Brock said.

"I'm sorry. If you were with me, I think I'd end up relying on you too much." May said to Max, and turning to face everyone.

"When I first met you guys, I didn't really know what to do. But you see…" May said, with a short pause.

"…after traveling with you all, I now know exactly what I want to do. I want to challenge many more Pokemon Contests and discover the charms of Pokemon. And I want to make my Pokemon shine much more!" May declared. Max had a saddened expression.

"I see. I think it's a good idea." Brock said.

"Over there, Solidad and… Drew will be waiting. Oh, and don't forget Harley." Ash said.

"Y-yeah…" May said. Max then walk off his own.

"Max?" May said. Max seems to not hear her.

"Hey, where are you going?" May asked.

"I think Max wanted to continue traveling too. I'm sure." Brock said.

"All right. I'll go talk to him" Ash said, and ran towards Max's direction.

Max sat on a swing. Ash called out to him.

"Max." He said. Max looked up to him.

"Cheer up. May has finally decided on the path she wants to follow, right?

"Pika pika!" "He's right! Pikachu said, jumping on Ash's shoulders.

"Of course, it's too bad you can't go with her." Ash said.

"That's not all. Somehow, I've started getting jealous of sis…" Max started.

"While she was battling you earlier, she looked like she was having lots of fun. Seeing that made me wish I could battle like that too already." Max said.

"I see." Ash said.

"And besides, it's really fun when you and sis are together…" Max said.

This made Ash flinched. What did he just say? Does he want Ash and May together? As in… More than friends? Maybe Ash interpreted wrongly, but still.

"Got it! When you become a trainer, the first thing you'll do is to have a battle with me, ok? So as soon as that happens, let me know, huh?" Ash said.

"Me… have a battle with you?" max said. He then stands up on his feet.

"Ok! It's a promise!" Max said excitingly

"Sure. I'm looking forward to it." Ash said.

May and Brock watched the scene from a distance. May thought that Ash was caring. Sure, she thought about him like that from the beginning where Ash wanted to save Pikachu from danger, but she didn't thought he would be as caring as this. She thought that he could be like a brother to Max, but, looking at her and Ash's state, she thought that wouldn't happen. She wanted to though, but it's too late.

Then, the group heard May and Max's boat calling one last time. May looked at the clock, and stated they're gonna miss the boat. Brock packed their food for them to eat while sailing to Hoenn.

Both siblings prepare to board their boat, but before they board, May had something to say for Ash. Since she has little time left, she made it short and understandable.

"Ash… Thank you for everything…" May said.

"Likewise." Ash said with a smile. It seems that Ash forcefully smiled, and May saw that, like a mask hiding its true feelings. She couldn't help but give him a tight hug, and she did.

The sudden action May showed shocked Brock and Max. They watched as they share one last good bye by sharing a hug. Words weren't enough to describe the scene.

Ash assumed this was a gesture of apology from her. Maybe she knew exactly how he felt about her. But she didn't need to apologize for her actions before. Ash then pulled away from her.

"May, your boat's about to leave. You should go…" Ash said, depressed.

"Ash, I'm really sorry *sniff* for everything that I've done to you. You know that I love you. Please tell me you love me too…" May said, her eyes becoming glassy.

"You don't need to apologize. Just go…" Ash said.

"Ash…" May said, her tears started to fall down her cheeks. Ash didn't say he loved her, and he knew that she didn't deserve that.

"May, come on. Let's go." Max said, pulling May towards the boat. May didn't resist.

As they watch the boat set sail, Max and May waved good bye, and so does Brock. Ash only watch them go. He hoped that this is the last time he would see her. She was now the origin of his horrible experience. She broke his heart, and the only way to restore his heart is by having someone else do it, and he hoped that someday he would find that person. He looked at the half-ribbon he shared with May, wondering if he should throw it into the ocean, but he didn't threw it. Instead he kept it as a reminder of what happened to them; two pieces separated, nothing would ever merge them together again, not even a wish.

__________________________________________________ ______________​

"Ash?..." May said, her eyes glassy.

May?..." Ash said, his heart beginning to beat in a rapid rate from dread.

Both trainers were stunned at the sight of each other's presence. Clemont didn't get what was happening in front of him.

May didn't know what to do, and so was Ash.

She was looking for him after she heard news about him becoming Pokemon Master. But, since then, she had no luck finding him. She was worried that he might have been… But that's all in the past now. He was now standing in front of her. She went and hugged him, but he immediately pushed her away.

"Ash… I'm so happy you're ok…" May said.

"May, what are you doing here?" Ash said.

"I competed in a contest here. But nevermind that, I was worried about you. Where have you been?…" May said.

"Well, I'm still alive. And now that you know the truth, I should go. Come on, Clemont." Ash said emotionlessly, beginning to walk away.

"Ash, can we have a talk, please? I know that you're mad at me, but still, you've been in my mind…" May said.

"That wouldn't change anything, to be honest." Ash said emotionlessly.

"Ash, I don't really know what's going on, or what happened between you two, but I think you should give her a chance." Clemont suggested.

"Why should I?" Ash said with a hint of anger.

"Ash. I've been suffering since we parted ways. I've felt guilty for saying those words to someone else and for breaking your trust, but, if you can't forgive me, at least hear me out, please? I'm begging you…" May said.

Ash was having second thoughts. Will he listen to her? Or ignore her? It wouldn't really hurt to hear her stories, would it? Plus, he did say it wouldn't really change anything. He saw her holding the half-ribbon they shared. He wondered what she was doing with it.

"Ok. But make it short." Ash said.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 5 up next...

I guess you could try explaining in later chapters why Clemont wasn't really surprised by Ash's reappearance.

I'll take that into consideration. If it proves too hard, then I won't be explaining it.

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 5: Blind​

Ash, May, and Clemont were walking down the streets to go to the nearest Cafe. May said this wouldn't be too short nor too long, much to Ash's anger, but he kept it in. He wouldn't want to stay angry with her. He would not be the Ash that he was known for by his friends. An Ash that was so cheery and determined and always hungry would be replaced by one full of despair and anger. He only wanted to forget her. It's been 11 years since they've parted ways. Ash has been quiet during his adventures, but was muttering little things about his heart-breaking experience. This habit of his disappeared as his childhood friend came in the picture. He had forgotten about his painful experience with May and the Terracotta ribbon they've shared, but it returned to him as he saw her minutes ago. Curse contests here! She wouldn't have been here if it weren't for them!

Pikachu, his best buddy, was on his right shoulder, looking at Ash, then May, then Ash again, then back to May. It was confused as to what was going on. Ash was its best buddy, but it thought he hid some secrets from him.

May was walking beside Ash, but with distance. She didn't want him to be uncomfortable with her near to him. She knew that Ash going to distance himself if she comes near. She still loves him, even today. Ash was in her mind since then. She couldn't help but feel guilty for saying she loves Drew. At that moment of silence, she knew that Ash loved her, just from looking at him. How she wanted to turn back time to not let her mind get the better of her heart. But it's too late now. She broke his heart, and she won't be the one to restore it to the way it was, even if she pour all her love to it.

Other than them was Clemont, walking behind them. He felt the strong tension between them in the air. How he regretted saying Ash should give her a chance. And now, there's a possibility that he would see the anger Ash had built up. He didn't know what was going on between them in the first place, and what happened between them, but he wouldn't want to see the girl distressed. He's not the kind of guy who would ignore someone in that state. But the tension; He thinks that it could explode at any moment, like his inventions in the past, but this time, there would be no puffy hair and messy clothes, instead there would be a destroyed relationship, although he didn't know that their relationship has already been ruined.

"Ummm… How have you been, Ash?" May said, wanting to start a short conversation.

"Fine." Ash said coldly. It was indeed a short conversation.

"Oh…" May sighed. She couldn't get him to try to last the conversation longer. Clemont sweat-dropped from seeing the situation like a bomb squad defusing a bomb which would explode minutes later.

It wouldn't hurt to try to go near him, right? And so May did exactly what her mind thought. Clemont had an expression saying "No! Don't do it!"

She went closer to Ash, which went unnoticed by him as he was looking in front of him. She went closer and closer, her heart starting to beat faster every step she made. Clemont as well. He was about to run away from this bomb. As soon as she went the closest possible, Ash suddenly walked faster than her, distancing himself from her. May sighed in disappointment, and Clemont sighed in relief. But, thanks to May's stubbornness, she wouldn't give up trying to win him back.

They have arrived in Lysandre Café. It was so small, and yet so big, considering there were no customers here. At the moment, they were the first ones here. But it seems a little eerie; the place was all red, and the waiter and waitress are a bit mysterious, but that didn't bother Ash at all, since he was focusing on what May would have to say to him.

Ash sat on a chair, Clemont pulled a chair for May and sat down on his own. The waiter then came up to them to take their orders, May and Clemont ordered something, and so the waiter went away, leaving the three alone for them to discuss.

"So, what do you want to talk about?" Clemont said.

An awkward silence enveloped them. It seems as though Clemont wanted to start the conversation instead of them. But the result wasn't what he was expecting. He silently looks on the two trainers; May looking at Ash and Ash looking away.

"Ash, do you still remember that time? When I said those words to someone else?" May asked.

"Yeah, and that made me cringe." Ash said.

"I know…" May said.

"I thought about it for a second. Drew had given me roses that time. And I began to fall for him." May said.

"I've been very confused about our relationship back then; I thought you didn't love me, and I didn't have the confidence to tell you how I felt about you. And so I went with Drew instead, but it seems that was the worst option I took in my life." May continued. Ash's eyes widen slightly.

"What happened?" Clemont asked curiously. Ash got that curious look on his face.

"Well, during the time when I was competing contests in Johto, and after winning one, Drew proposed to me in front of the whole audience, saying I should be his girlfriend, and, of course accepted much to the disappointment of his fan girls." May said.

"We were getting along fine, actually, but since then, he was into his career than me. I don't know why, and that made me frustrated with him; not having enough time with me. I deserved more than that, right?" May said.

"And, it all started…" May said.

____________________________________________________________________________​

"Time's up!" The referee said.

Drew and Wallace were now exhausted from commanding their Pokemon, with Roserade and Milotic respectively. Their Pokémon looked tired too. They looked at the scoreboard, and saw what many coordinators wanted to see when they were a challenger of the Top Coordinator. Drew's points was barely higher than Wallace's. That means…

"T-the winner is… DREW! This means Drew is now the new Top Coordinator!" The referee said in shock.

Silence enveloped in the stadium. The sudden sight of the scoreboard as well as the announcement of the new Top Coordinator shocked the whole stadium. But then, seconds later, all the audience shouted like there's no tomorrow.

"Drew! What a great battle! Congratulations on winning!" One of the audience said.

"Drew! I'm aiming for you now!" A girl in the audience said.

"What a fantastic battle that was. I was hoping Wallace would win, but alas, the type advantage got the better of him as well as his strategies. Fantastic job, Drew." A man said in the audience.

"DREW! DREW! DREW! DREW! DREW! DREW!" The entire audience cheered for him.

Drew himself couldn't believe what he was seeing or hearing. He had just beaten Wallace, the strongest and most elegant coordinator in the world. And now, he was here, standing in the stadium, keeping his hype down because that's not his 'style'. Wallace walked up to him.

"Drew. You have now beaten me, the Top Coordinator. I now leave its post behind for you to stand beside it. You are now… The new Top Coordinator." Wallace said.

"Thanks." Drew said, while being crowned.

"Oh look, the crowd's going to head here. I think I don't want to intrude on your parade, Drew. Thank you for the elegant battle. I look forward to seeing you again someday." Wallace said.

"Milotic, let's go" Wallace commanded.

Milotic created water out of nowhere and surrounded them, and they disappeared after the water went down.

"DREW!" a familiar voice said in the crowd. It was May, running towards him. He looked at her with a warm smile, but he saw behind her the huge crowd, and began outrunning her.

May kept up with her pace, but the crowd beaten her to him.

"E-excuse me." She said.

"Hey! Get in line! It's not your turn!" A girl said.

"Hey, for your information, I'm his girlfriend, and I have the right to-" May said, but was cut off.

"You? His girlfriend? Please. Who would want to date an upside-down-V-haired girl?" The girl said in a sassy tone.

May was about to retort, until she looked on ahead, and she got really angry when girls get their autographs as well as kissing him on the cheek, and Drew doesn't seem to mind at all. And so, she walked out of the stadium back to the hotel where they were staying, frustrated.

She slammed the door to their room and sat in front of the mirror, thinking about their relationship. It seemed to her that this was all pointless in the beginning. Drew was cool and popular, and girls want him. And seeing that scenario in the stadium, it looked like he was cheating on her, and she was about to break down in tears.

Time went by fast, and Drew came in the room at night.

"Hi May. I looked everywhere for you after I've given them autographs. So this was where you've been." Drew said. May was silent for a moment.

"Uh, May, what's wrong?" Drew asked.

"Nothing." May said coldly. She got up the chair and walked into the bathroom to wash up for bed.

A while later, when Drew was sitting on the bed thinking what was wrong with her, a loud knock suddenly was heard on the door, and it began continuously knocking the door. Drew immediately walked up to the door and opened it slightly, but the force coming from outside was too strong for him, and so he was pushed away, letting the fan girls come in.

"Hi Drew!" one of the girls said.

"Wanna have some fun?" another girl said.

"Hey! I came in this room first!" one of the girls said, starting an argument.

"No you didn't!"

"I wanna have fun with him first!"

"You have to go through me first!"

All the girls then stared at each other, and then had an idea, and looked towards Drew, whose expression seems too vague to tell what he was feeling right now.

The girls then began to do… something to Drew, to which Drew seemed to enjoy. His mind shifted from May to the girls who was surrounding him. They were enjoying their time, but all that enjoyment disappeared when May came out the bathroom.

"Huh?! What's going on here?!" May shouted.

"M-May?" Drew said.

"Oh no! It's her! Let's make a run for it!" All the girls said.

The girls then ran out of the room, not wanting to get pummeled by her. May then stared at Drew with eyes glassy.

"W-what were you doing with them?!" Did you just-?!" May said.

"N-no! May, I can explain!" Drew said convincingly, but not enough to convince her.

Silence enveloped the room, with May's expression from anger to calm. She went and began to pack her things, to which Drew knew exactly what her intention was.

"May, I'm sorry that I did that. Can you please forgive me?" Drew said.

"How can I forgive someone who just cheated on me…" May said calmly, holding her tears.

"May, I wasn't cheating on you, I just…" Drew said, thinking about excuses.

"You just what?" May said. Drew was silent for a moment.

"May, can we just forget what happened?" Drew said.

"No, I don't think I would ever forget that." May said.

"I knew from the start that this relationship of ours is pointless. I was so dumb on saying yes to you before. I loved you, and I thought you loved me, but you loved your career and fans more than me. It was my fault that I got hurt. Saying yes to that question of yours was the biggest mistake of my life, and to think you did that with others in front of me…" May said.

Drew was quiet. His career blinded him from his relationship. He didn't think his career and fans would pull him from May. He was now guilty for not even pushing himself towards her.

"May, I'm sorry…" Drew said.

"No, I'm sorry I let this happened between us." May said, breaking down in tears. She wanted all the burden to herself. She didn't want to blame him. She wasn't that kind of girl who would blame someone, even if he was the one who did it.

"May, please stay with me." Drew said.

"I don't wa- Mmph!" May was cut off by Drew's lips on hers. Her mind went blank for a second, and she seemed to return it. It lasted for a short while until May had come into realization, and pulled herself from Drew.

"Drew! So that's the only thing you've been after from me this whole time?!" May said.

"N-no! That's not it!" Drew said.

"I've had enough of you. I'm through!" May said, running pass the door with her bags, with tears running down on her cheeks.

May ran aimlessly on the streets. She didn't know what to do nor where to go. She just wanted to go away from Drew, who had broken her heart. She wanted someone who was trustworthy, someone who would not break her heart, someone… someone to love her truly and for her to love him back. She then thought of Ash. How she wanted to relive that time; that time when she and Drew were parting ways in Johto, and for her to prevent those words from coming out of her mouth. If those didn't actually came out, she would be with Ash now. But for now, she just wanted to go away from that horrible relationship she just had with Drew.

____________________________________________________________________________​

"And that's what happened." May said.

Ash and Clemont couldn't help but feel sorry for her. It seemed that Drew wasn't trustworthy as Ash thought of. She didn't deserve that kind of guy. The waiter then came back with their food, put them on the table, and went away.

"I'm sorry that happened to you. You must have gone through a lot." Clemont said.

"It's ok. I just realized popularity could blind you." May said.

"And that's why I disappeared." Ash said, with Clemont's and May's eyes widen.

"Come to think of it, where have you been all this time?" May asked.

"I was training somewhere isolated, that's all." Ash said.

Ash stared at May. He thought that she deserved that her heart was broken by Drew just like she did with his, but he could help but feel empathy. He wasn't that cold to just feel triumph, even though he didn't expect it.

"Well, let's dig in." Clemont said.

He and May were eating, and Ash was just watching, not hungry at all. He watched as May plays with her food. It seems she wasn't hungry too. Who would be after telling him that terrible experience?

They had small talks, like Clemont's exploding inventions before, which caused May to giggle at his stories. Ash felt happy when he saw her giggle for the first time since he saw her like that. It seemed that his bitterness towards her had evaporated. And then he just realized now, he was wasting time. His only purpose here was to search for Serena. And so, he got up to his feet.

"I have to go now. I have something to do." Ash said.

"What are you gonna do?" May asked.

"Just gonna look for clues." Ash said.

"Clues for what?" May asked. It looks like she's beginning to be nosy.

"It's none of your business." Ash said.

"I-I'm sorry…" May said. Ash felt guilty for being too harsh.

"It's ok." Ash said. He walked out of the café, leaving the two to their own.

After they've finished their food, Clemont paid the bill.

"So, shall we?" He said.

"Where to?" May said.

"Everywhere you want. I could give you a tour of you want." Clemont insisted.

"Thank you. I'm new to this city, after all." May said. They both walked out of the café.

As soon as they were out of sight, both the waiter and waitress had an evil look on their faces.

"So, he's here. Time to pay him back for what he did to us." The waiter said.

____________________________________________________________________________​

Ash was walking aimlessly on the sidewalk, not knowing where to start. The city was so large, he could start from anywhere. After hours of looking for clues, he had no luck finding even one. He then walked towards the park where he could rest for a bit. As he was about to enter the park, he saw who it seemed to be the one he was looking for. He was stunned at the moment of sight.

"Gardevoir, Tele-" Serena said, but didn't continue as she saw the boy of her dreams.

"S-Serena? Is that really you?" Ash asked.

"Ash? Ash!" Serena said, broke her grip from her bags, and ran towards him and tackled him in a bear hug. Ash immediately returned it.

They were happy to see each other again after all these years. Serena felt like this wasn't reality, and so,

"Can you pinch me on the cheek, Ash?" Serena said.

"Wha-what for?" Ash said.

"Just do it." Serena said, and he did it softly. She felt a little pain, and realizes it was reality.

"Oh my Arceus. It's real! He's really in front of me!" She thought, and tears began to from in her blue orbs.

"What's wrong? I didn't pinch too hard, did I?" Ash said, beginning to panic.

"No, it's just…" Serena said, wiping her tears.

"It's just, I'm happy that you came back for me. You kept your promise…" Serena said.

"Hehe, no problem." Ash said, scratching his cheek.

"Gardevoir gardevoir? "M'lady, shall we go now? The others are waiting for us." Gardevoir said.

"Of course! Ash, you can come with us!" Serena said.

"Me? Where?" Ash asked.

"You'll see." Serena said, taking his hand and walked towards Gardevoir. The white bipedal then gathered its Psycic powers to teleport them to their destination.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 6 coming right up...

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 6: Reunited​

*pant pant* "H-hey! Wait up!" Clemont said, barely catching up to now very cheery May.

He didn't know what caused her to feel this way though. All he did was show her around town. What he didn't get was her lines before, saying that this city is so large and so beautiful. It's because of Clemont complimenting his hometown. After May suddenly sprinted to see more of the city, they were shouting at each other. They were so loud that every citizen they pass by was looking at them with an awkward look. Some even assumed they were a weird couple. Only a few knew Clemont, and thought that it was great for him that he got a girlfriend, which was supposedly hoped by Bonnie that he will eventually get one or she will get him one herself. They were not familiar with May though since contests were introduced in Kalos a month ago.

May turned around, sweat-dropped and said, "Oops, sorry, Clemont! I'm just really excited to see more of this city! And I'm still hungry! C'mon!", and began sprinting from him.

"M-May, Can we just walk?! I'm the tour guide, remember?!" Clemont said, but since May was already too far away, she couldn't hear him.

"Ohh May, what am I going to do with you?" Clemont said, and began to worry about her if she get lost in the city. He began running tiredly after her.

May was running aimlessly, seeing the views from all angles; large buildings, restaurants, the Prism Tower, even some Trainers' Furfrou.

As she passed by a river, she saw two Luvediscs jumped from the water, and began dancing in the air before descending to the water. She remembered the Luvdiscs she saw with Ash when they were in duty of protecting Manaphy. How she wanted to relive those moments under the sea; swimming with various Water-Type Pokemon and Ash.

Then she just realized something; Manaphy was the prince of the sea and was like child to her, so that makes her a mother. And Ash; he accidentally claimed the Sea Crown back in the Sea Temple, which granted him the ability to breath under water and swim through it rapidly. If Ash is the King of the Sea, Manaphy is the prince and May is basically its mother then... The royal family of the sea… She then felt intense redness take over her cheeks from that silly thought. But she shook it off of her mind. It was a good imagination though.

As soon as she turned right from a corner, she saw what she didn't liked to see in her life, even if it's the last thing she would see, and regretted turning right instead of left. All her cheery feeling has evaporated in just a single glance. Her heart began beating from dread and anger, her hands and legs shaking, her eyes glassy.

She saw Ash hugging a girl. She looked closely and saw that it was the girl she met before. It was Serena! Her face was now red from anger. Damn her… How could she take her Ash away from her (Even though she's the one who left him hanging)?! Does she love him or what? But wait, does Ash love her too? No! That's not true! No no no no! Not in May's life!

She then get a Pokeball from her belt and began rushing towards them, only to see them disappearing into nothingness, not even noticing her.

She stands there, her right hand holding her Pokeball tightly, and the other balled up into a fist. Time somehow felt going very slow. Everything seemed to be in slow motion. She did not like this one bit, as she only wanted this feeling of her heart break into tiny pieces vanish immedtiately. But no. She had to endure it. But can she endure it for long?

"Damn her… How could you? I'll get you… Just you wait…" May promised to herself. Her heart and mind was now full of revenge. She wouldn't let her get away with this, not when she stole Ash away from her when she was planning to get back with him.

A mysterious man wearing a coat and red goggles watched the scene with a smile on his face, and walked away in the dark corners of the buildings shortly after.

"Hehehe… Don't worry. You will get her…" The man said.

_________________________________________________________________________________________​

*swish*

Gardevoir and the two childhood friends was standing in front of the late Maple's house. Ash didn't quite remember the place at first glance, until he saw a Mawile planting the flowers surrounding the home.

"Thanks, Gardevoir. You were a great help." Serena said.

"Garde gardevoir." "My pleasure, m'lady." Gardevoir said. Serena called back Gardevoir to its Pokeball.

"Wow… I haven't been here since Korrina and Lucario's training. Ahh memories…" Ash said. He then felt a fresh breeze gently hitting him. He looked around the area; trees are swaying, leaves and flowers are dancing elegantly, everything around him is nature itself, and indeed it is beatiful. No words are needed to compliment the beauty of nature, because anyone who is witnessing this will be speechless, no matter who or what. He then saw Serena's honey-blonde hair flowing naturally in the air like he imagined back in Mt. Silver. Looks like Serena is nature in Ash's eyes. And, just as he thought, he is speechless upon seeing her. But nonetheless, he loved the view.

Serena then saw him staring at her, and began blushing a little.

"Wha-what are you staring at for?" Serena asked, feeling embarrassed.

"Oh! N-nothing." Ash said, breaking free from the trance.

The Mawile walked towards them and greeted both of them. Serena then remembered telling it her stories about how she met Ash. Pikachu greeted Mawile and greeted back.

"Mawile mawile maw maw-" "Nice to see you again, Ash! I heard a lot of stories about you from Serena. She told me that-" Mawile was cut of by Serena sending it back into its Pokeball but was shortly released after.

Mawile smiled slyly at Serena, and began giggling a little. Serena then had an expression saying 'Don't say those to him!'

"Hehe, sorry 'bout that! Oh, by the way, this is Mawile. Do you remember back when we stayed here with Maple? This was originally hers. It decided to become my Pokemon after I went here." Serena said.

"Wow, it did? That's the first time a Pokemon decided to stay with you! But wait, where's Maple?" Ash asked.

Serena didn't answer that, as she only stared at him, then at the ground, and then at the sky above them with somewhat glassy eyes and a sad expression. Ash already got the idea, and he felt sad about it. Pikachu also sensed this, and felt sad.

"She…" Serena began.

"I know… You don't need to say it…" Ash said sadly. It is indeed inevitable for people with old age to pass away anytime. But Maple lived a happy life; a life only loving the beauty of nature, and nothing more. It was enough for Maple to be happy.

"Well, we can't let that depress us, right? We just got reunited, after all." Ash added, beaming a smile. Serena loved that smile of his. It seems to make her worries vanish just by looking at that warm smile. And that alone makes her love him more.

"You're right." Serena said, smiling back. "Anyway, let's get inside. You must be hungry. I'll make something for you." She added.

"Oh. Don't, I'm not-" Ash began, until he heard his stomach call for food. He didn't plan to eat at the café earlier as he wasn't really hungry at all then. But now his glutton came back at the right time as he remembered Serena can cook magnificently.

"N-nevermind. I'll take the offer." Ash said, scratching his cheek.

Serena giggled at the sound of his stomach asking for food. They went inside.

As the door opened, they saw Braixen playing with a Yancham. Pikachu hopped off of Ash's shoulders and went and engaged in a Pokemon conversation between the three.

"Anyway, I'll make some food right away. Make yourself at home, Ash." Serena said, and went into the kitchen.

Ash looked around the house. It was nostalgic for him to be here again. It felt more nostalgic as he saw the flowers Serena arranged back in those days still standing at its large rectangular pot. To his surprise, it was beside the flowers he arranged. He remembered how she had enough of arranging flowers when they had to stay here. He had the urge to tell her his trademark quote 'Never give up until the end!' Although he didn't proceed to tell her since she was really tired back then. He didn't want her to get too tired, did he? That's how he cares about her. He would temporarily give up motivating her to avoid unneeded stress to unnecessary activities.

He walked up the stairs, went outside and onto the balcony. His breath was taken away from the sight that was in front of him. There were utterly no words for Ash to say to descirbe nature's beauty. All he can say was 'Great job, Maple', but he feels that those words weren't enough to compliment Maple's hard work.

It was already 30 minutes since he went onto the balcony, still looking at the view.

He heard the door opened, and came out Serena. He knew it was her, but he didn't look back.

"Food's ready. Let's eat." Serena said.

"I'll be there at the moment. I'm taking my time admiring this beautiful view here." Ash said. Serena then walked up beside him and the sight also took her breath away.

"Oh, it's so beautiful…" Serena said. She is completely speechless, but trying hard to come up with a compliment. This was her first time coming onto the balcony. She didn't have the chance back then.

"I know right?-" Ash said, and then thought of a pick-up line. "-Just… like you…" He added.

Serena could've been mistaken for a Flareon since her face was totally red from the sudden compliment from Ash.

"Did he just said that? Is he telling the truth? But he's not the type of guy who would tell a lie, so I'll take it as a truth then. What's this? I suddenly had the urge to kiss him now! Don't go there yet, Serena! You and he are not yet together! But I want to! No no no no!" Serena thought.

"Something troubling you?" Ash asked as he saw Serena's uncomfortable expression.

"Uhhh-Nothing!" Serena said, keeping it cool.

"Hehe. Say, why don't we go down now and eat now?" Ash suggested.

"That'll be great." Serena said.

They went downstairs and sit beside the dining table, with food sitting in front of them. Pikachu and the others went and sit as well. Ash and Serena called their other Pokemon in their roster.

Ash called out Charizard, Lucario, Sceptile, Absol, and Dragonite.

Serena called out Sylveon, Delcatty, Butterfree, and Gardevoir

All their Pokemon greeted each other. Charizard and Gardevoir seemed to get along well. Dragonite and Absol greeted Braixen and Yancham. Sceptile and Butterfree did the same.

Sylveon as well as Delcatty fell in love with Lucario at first sight, which resulted in the two pink Pokemon bickering. Lucario stopped them, which caused the two pink Pokemon to fall harder in love with it because of its gentle-Pokemonly approach. Fighting- and Steel-Type Pokemon are indeed a weakness against Normal- and Fairy-Types respectively.

After their greetings with each other, they proceed in eating Serena's Pokemon food as well as some deserts, PokePuffs.

Ash and Serena talked while eating. This was the perfect moment for Ash to ask Serena something that got him curious.

"Your mother is worried about you, Serena. Why haven't you come back home yet?" Ash said.

Serena looked at Ash with sincere eyes, and said, "You know why..."

"I do know. I just wanted to make sure." Ash said.

"Well, being well-known by the people kinda pisses me off, you know?" Serena began.

"After I became Kalos Queen, those news reporters started to throw stressful questions at me. Some even asked some questions that were already asked before. I didn't bother answering them after a day, and so I wandered on my own, sneaking pass their line of sight. I didn't want them to know where I am. That's why I couldn't go home. They knew where I lived. I wanted to see my mother again. If only I didn't become Kalos Queen... I would have been home right now... I really regret having to be crowned..." Serena said. Some tears already formed in her eyes from those emotional experiences. Ash couldn't bear to see his friend in distressed.

"Don't feel regret. You've achieved your dream, right? And sometimes, you gotta make sacrifices. And there will come a time when life will give you something in return." Ash said reassuringly with a smile.

"I know. Life's gift is already in front of me... And to be honest, I really love the gift..." Serena said, blushing madly. Ash didn't get it at first, but soon was red as a tomato.

They have talked about their other experiences when they were away. It was a big surprise for Serena that Ash's table manners turned for the better. She knew he is a glutton, but she never thought that he can classily eat. But that changed immediately as she witnessed Ash's hunger came out; he ate every piece of food on his plate in an instant. Well, that's Ash for you.

Night falls, and came the time to sleep. They decided that their Pokemon should be kept outside of their Pokeball for the night. Charizard decided that it will be outside of the house, on guard.

"We should sleep now. It's getting late." Ash said, getting up on his chair.

"I guess so, but where will you sleep then?" Serena said. She was secretly hoping that he will decide to sleep beside her on the bed. Why not?

"Well, I guess I'm gonna be sleeping on the couch." Ash said. Serena's head hung low.

"Wha-what's wrong?" Ash said.

"Nothing. I'll better go upstairs now. Good night, Ash." Serena said, getting up on her chair and proceeded going up to her room.

"Night." Ash said, and went to the couch and lied down for a moment, and then instantly went asleep.

Serena was in her room, not in Maple's. That's where Mawile will sleep. She then dressed to her night gown and went to sleep.

An hour later, a loud thud was heard upstairs, enough to wake Ash up. He sprinted upstairs and went to Serena's room. When he got there, he turned on the lights and found Serena on the floor.

"What are you doing on the floor? Did something happened?" Ash said.

"I… I had a nightmare, that's all." Serena said, getting back on her feet and lied down on her bed once again.

"Oh. Well, I'll be on my way downstairs." Ash said, walking out of the room until…

"Ash…" Serena said.

"What is it?" Ash asked.

"Could you… you know… sleep with me… just for the night?" Serena said, hiding her intense blush behind her pillow.

Ash's heart started beating in a rapid pace. "Did she just asked that? To sleep with her for the night?... Is it ok? No no no! Don't go there, Ash! Being 18 or above doesn't mean you get to experience that! C'mon! Pull yourself together!" Ash thought.

"Umm… Ash?" Serena said, breaking Ash free from his thoughts.

"Uhh, why did you ask? Is it because of the nightmare?" Ash asked.

"You… could say that…" Serena said.

"Well, ok then. But just for the night. I don't really want to invade your privacy." Ash said, and just realized what he just said, and felt the red take over his cheeks in embarrassment.

"Hehe, that's ok. Really." Serena said convincingly.

Ash turned off the lights then went beside her on the bed and lied down, facing away from her.

Another hour passed by, and they couldn't sleep, and they didn't know why. Maybe because they were beside each other on the bed? It was just for the night, right?

Ash and Serena were facing away from each other.

"Ash?" Serena asked.

"What?" Ash said, cleary still have energy to engage on a conversation.

"I'm really glad that you came back for me. Thank you…" Serena said, turning to face him. Ash turned to face her too.

"No problem! I'm always keeping in touch with my friends." Ash said, beaming a smie.

Serena then felt the urge to lay her head on his chest, which she did. Their faces was really red at the moment.

"Uh, Serena?" Ash said.

"Let's go to sleep, Ash." Serena said, and looked up to Ash's face and planted a quick kiss on his cheek, and immediately buried her face back on his chest.

"Wha-what was that for?" Ash said, his face like a tomato.

"Ash, I'm trying to sleep." Serena said with an innocent voice.

Ash was quiet for a moment, and wrapped his arms around Serena. A truly perfect moment to end the night of awkwardness.

"Teehee. Mission accomplished." Serena thought, and drifted into slumber.

_________________________________________________________________________________________​

May was sitting on a bench at the park in Lumious City at night. The stars are not seen tonight due to the thick clouds that hover in the air. All lights are off, except for the post in the park. The darkness wasn't bothering May, since her mind was now full of dark thoughts.

She was planning her revenge on Serena whom she just met this day. A Pokemon battle that will determine who will get Ash is a good plan! This was the perfect plan, since Tripokalons don't involve Pokemon battles. That makes Serena an inexperienced trainer in battling.

A man wearing a coat and red goggles came up to her from the shadows that surround the area.

"You are May, correct?" The man said.

"What do you want?" May said irritatingly.

"Would you like me to help you with your problem?" The man asked.

"How can a man who I've just met help me, huh? I don't have time for you!" May, annoyed of this man's mysterious and suspicious questions, stood up and held out a Pokeball.

"My my, aren't you a little impatient?" The man said calmly.

"Indeed I am! Blaziken, get this man out of my sight at once!" May said, throwing the Pokeball in the air. A red light came out of the Pokeball, and materialized into a large bipedal, chicken-like Pokemon.

"Blaziken…" "Yes, mistress…" Blaziken said.

"Looks like you'll take it the hard way, eh? Malamar, come down." The man said.

A dark-purple, squid-like Pokemon came down from the heavens and stood in front of the man.

"Hypnosis." The man commanded.

Malamar shined a very bright light over the Blaziken. The chicken Pokemon tried to resist the hypnosis, but to no avail, and so it was now possessed. It then faced May, with red eye that seemed to void of May's voice.

"No! Blaziken, snap out of it!" May commanded, but Blaziken didn't hear her.

"Now, Malamar, you know what to do…" The man said.

Malamar then shined another bright light over May. May then closed her eyes the second she saw the light. But, upon seeing the light, she was already possessed. Her eyes turned red, void of anything other than the man's voice.

"Excellent." The man said. The man then took Blaziken's Pokeball and called Blaziken back to its Pokeball.

"Come with me, May. I'd like you to be my next experiment; an experiment that will throw that so-called Pokemon Master into oblivion. Hehehe..." The man said.

"Yes, Xerosic..." May said emotionlessly.

As they exit the park, Clemont entered the park, still searching for May. He was looking for her all day. It was her fault that she sprinted from her tour guide in the first place.

"Oh, May, where are you?" Clemont said to himself. He is now really worried about her. For starters, she didn't know the place.

"Ah forget it. I'm gonna go ba-" Clemont said, but saw a faint, sparkling light on the ground beside the bench. He went up to it, crouch down and picked up the item.

"A half-ribbon?" Clemont said.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 7 is still in progress. It may be up on late December or January, since it is on temporary hiatus. I'm a busy college student, but I wouldn't just leave you guys hanging on a cliffhanger Lol. Stay tuned!

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 7: Lumious City's Destruction​

…

…

Where… am I…

Why… is it… so dark?

I… can’t move…

Help… me… Somebody… help…

Hehe… Hehehe… Don’t worry… You’ll see him soon enough…

… after I get rid of his… ‘girl… Hehehe…

… Who… are you?... What do… you want… from me?...

I want you… to get rid of the girl for me… Isn’t that what you want?...

… Yes… I… want to… but…

But what?

… Why… help me?

To see the dreadful eyes of that boy upon seeing her all soaked in blood!

… No… That’s… not what… I want… Let me… out of here…

Ohho no. I can’t let that happen, especially this perfect timing… Hehehehe… I’ll get rid of him once and for all… Hehehe….

Oh… yes you… will…

… Huh? Where’s… my Pokeballs?...

They’re in my care. Don’t worry, you’ll use them later… on her… Hehehehe…

_______________________________________________​

A few days have passed after the reunion of Ash and Serena. They all have their bags ready to go. The Pokemon are outside of their Pokeballs to say goodbye to the house. They have been living a peaceful life, but soon they would have to leave it, as Serena has to go back home to her mother. She can’t stand her life anymore, this glamour and popular life style. She needed a normal life for once. She and he have discussed this matter the other day…

XxX​

“What do I do now, Ash?” Serena asked as they were eating lunch.

“About what?” Ash said. Can’t he see what she meant for once? Geez…

“About… my life…” Serena said. She had her hands on her table, not touching her food at all. She’s been thinking about it lately, and no idea has crossed her mind since. She was regretful that she achieved her goal. She didn’t know what to do anymore. All these fans, supporters, and news reporters are what blocks her path to a normal life. She needed answers, answers from someone she can rely on.

Life… Home… Ash thought about it for a second.

“…Hmmm… Now that you mentioned it, your mother is pretty much worried about you right now. I suggest we go back to your home and discuss this there with your mom.” Ash said, and ate his food afterwards.

“I know. I just can’t have a moment where I can’t see any fans or reporters everywhere. It’s so annoying.” Serena said in disappointment.

“You know, if you really do want them far from you, why don’t you leave, or surrender your title to someone else?” Ash suggested, sweating from the word ‘surrender’. He wasn’t the type of guy to say such thing, but it was for the best.

“I… didn’t really give it that much thought. But then again, even after my title was to be claimed, they’ll still be around for me, as they did for Aria.” Serena said, her head resting on her right hand

“Think about it. Aria’s been Kalos Queen for what, 8 – 10 years now. She’s still quite popular in my opinion. And you’ve been one for two years. You’re still not quite known around the world.” Ash said.

“I’ll give it a try… Leaving this kind of life is just what I want. Besides, I trust you on this.” Serena said.

XxX​

Outside of the house, they stand in front of the house to say goodbye. Mawile was hesitant at first, as this was the home of her late trainer. Serena convinced it that they will stay here from time to time.

Everyone has said their goodbyes to the house, and the Pokemon were sent back to their respective Pokeballs with the exception of Pikachu and Mawile. Serena suggested to
Ash that they should go to Vaniville Town on foot, making the suggestion of Ash earlier of Gardevoir transporting them fall flat. Why? It’s simple. She didn’t want to rush their time together. She wanted to spend more time together.

They were walking in a thick forest. The forest was so thick that it may be there to block the existence of Maple’s garden from intruders. Luckily there were no wild Pokemon there that were aggressive as a Gyarados. Trees were waving and leaves were dancing in the wind. It was as peaceful as Maple’s home.

“So, Serena. What’ll you do after you give your title to someone?” Ash asked In curiosity.

“Well, I haven’t been to Pallet Town after the Summer Ca-” Serena was cut off upon Ash’s glassy and glowing eyes that seem to show approval of the idea she just said.

“Well then! Let’s go there after that! I can tour you around town of you like! Honestly, I haven’t been there for 8 years now, so I can expect some changes when I get back there.” Ash said with his fist in the air.

“Speaking of Pallet Town, what about your mother? She may be worried sick about you missing for 8 years straight.” Serena said upon realization.

“I… know. I missed her, really. I should really go back home. But first thing’s first. I have to help you with your problem, and then you can visit Pallet Town sometime!” Ash said with his fist in the air once more. As usual, Pikachu mimicked his trainer.

The sky was really clear that time. As Ash’s hand was still in the air, he spotted a smoke coming from afar. It was rising in the air fast and getting bigger as well.

“Huh? What’s going on there?” Serena said.

*gasp*

“Oh no! That’s Lumious City’s direction!” Serena said, wide-eyed.

The atmosphere above the smoke began to change an evil red. Clouds above began to darken.

“Fire… Let’s hurry there.” Ash said, grabbed Serena’s hand and ran towards the direction while Mawile was behind.

_______________________________________________​

As they near the city, they were passing by some people running from their destination. Ash stopped one to get some answers.

“Hey, mister. What’s that smoke coming from Lumious? Is it fire?” Ash asked.

“Yes! A really, really big fire, that is! The fire department may not be able to handle such fire!” The man said.

“What happen then? Did a Pokemon rampaged in the city again?” Ash said, remembering the time of him saving a rampaging Garchomp.

“Yes! Not only that! There was this mysterious person in a black suit that commands that Pokemon! I don’t know what he’s after, but I’m not staying here to find out! There are people who were also targeted, you know!” The man said, and began to race from the city once again.

“T-targetted?! I can’t believe such person!” Serena said in anger in her eyes.

“Let’s look for him, then!” Ash said.
They reached the entrance of the city. The place was a wreck. Everything was messy; buildings were damaged, debris from buildings and roads were everywhere on the streets. The sky was dark red, the clouds were black. It was a sight of disaster that Ash and Serena had never seen before.

They went to the center of the city, only to find the Prism Tower tilted a little because of a damaged part of the building. No one was there, and it was quiet. Only the sounds of flame can be heard. And then Ash remembered Clemont. He was now curious as to where his location might be.

“Clemont! Are you here?” Ash shouted to make sure. Unfortunately, there was no reply.

“Maybe we should check inside.” Serena suggested.

They went in front of the door, but it won’t budge, even a little. It might have been damaged as well.

“I think he might be trapped inside.” Ash said, pulling out a Pokeball. He threw the Pokeball in the air. Light came from inside the Pokeball and it materialized into Lucario.

“Lucario, I need you to open that door. Use Aura Sphere.” Ash said.

“As you wish, master.” Lucario said in telepathy.

Lucario then brought its hands into a pose. Blue aura was forming between its hands into a ball. It then launched the aura towards the door, seemingly smashed opened it.

“Thanks, Lucario. Return” Ash said. They began running inside the building.

They are now inside the gym. It was too dark, so Serena needed Gardevoir to use Flash inside.

The room was a mess too, debris were all over the place. At the other side of the battlefield was Clemont and an Electivire, lying against the wall unconscious.

“Clemont!” Both trainers shouted, and rushed towards his aid.

“Clemont, wake up!” Ash said, shaking his body. Fortunately, it wasn’t the time for Clemont as he opened his eyes seconds later.

He then moved his head left and right to see where he was, and saw the two. “Ash… Serena…?” Clemont said weakly, and wince in pain of his wounded right arm.
Serena prevented him from moving more. “Don’t move, Clemont. I’ll get you healed up.” Serena said, taking her aiding kit out of her bag and treated the wound gently. Meanwhile, Pikachu, Mawile, and Gardevoir stood in guard of the place in case any intruder comes in.

“Thanks… Serena… Serena? Is that you?!” Clemont gasp in realization. He didn’t realize Serena was here. He then turned faced Ash.

“Ash, where did you find her?” Clemont asked.

“Now’s not the time to talk about that! What happened here, Clemont? Who did this?” Ash said.

“Right. Let’s talk about that later.” Clemont said. Serena then tended to Electivire.

“I remember I was fixing Clembot for a rematch hours ago. A trainer came from the door and challenged me to a battle.” Clemont said, his hands rubbing his head for further recollection.

“I heard him say. ‘Let’s battle…’ in a voice I can’t decipher if the person was a boy or a girl. Not only that, the person dressed weird. He was dressed in a full-body black suit. I can’t see the person’s face.” Clemont continued.

“Despite the weird greeting, I accepted the challenge. I sent out Electivire to battle. I wanted to end the match as early as possible.” Clemont stopped there.

“What happened next? What did the trainer send out?” Ash said.

“The person sent out a Blaziken. But…” Clemont said, trying to remember what happened.

“The Blaziken. It was wearing a mask. I had a weird sensation then, since it was enveloped in a dark blue aura. It may be the effect of the mask it wore.” Clemont said in horror. He is visibly shaking from the thought.

“The battle started, and we had the upper hand, until the Blaziken used a powerful move on my Pokemon. And then, Electivire was sent flying towards me from the hit, and that’s when we were knocked out.” Clemont finished.

“’That’s all I can remember. Man, my head hurts…” Clemont said. Serena was just finished tending Electivire. And felt familiarity from the words ‘black suit’. Electivire stood up, and thanked her for healing it.

“A black suit… It feels... familiar, don’t you think?” Ash asked Serena.

“Yeah. I feel like I’ve seen this person before.” Serena said.
Ash put his hand beneath his chin to think. Unfortunately, none has crossed his mind. But it did felt familiar to him.

“I just remember!” Clemont said in a slightly louder voice.

“Whe-where’s dad? Where is he? Is he alright?” Clemont asked in worry.

“We don’t know. We haven’t seen him since we got into the city.” Ash said.

“Oh no… I have to find him now! I don’t know if he’s alright!” Clemont said, attempting to stand up, but was pushed down by his painful wound.

“Crap! I can’t even stand up!” Clemont said angrily.

“Don’t strain yourself even further, Clemont! We’ll find him for you. We’ll just wait for you to get better.” Serena said.

“No, go find him right now. I’ll be okay here alone. Electivire here can protect me from anything, after all. Right, Electivire?” Clemont said. Electivire nodded in the affirmative.

“Are you sure? We don’t have much time left before the city is destroyed by them.” Ash said.

“I’m sure. Now go. Please, find my dad.” Clemont pleaded. The two trainers nodded to each other.

“Before that, I’ll leave Dragonite here for more security.” Ash said, sending out Dragonite.

“Dragonite, please take care of Clemont here while we’re away, okay?” Ash said.

“Drago dragonite dragonite!” “You can count on me!” Dragonite said.

“Thanks, Dragonite.” Ash thanked his trusty dragon-type Pokemon.

As the two trainers were about to go, Ash saw what it seemed to be a half-ribbon Clemont was holding.

“Clemont, where did you get that?” Ash asked.

“Oh yeah. That day, when you went away from the café, I gave a tour to May since she was knew to the city, but after a while, her eagerness separated us from then on. I went and searched for her even at that night, and I found this lying on the park.” Clemont said.

“So she went missing last night.” Ash said.

“I think so too. She wouldn’t just leave this lying anywhere.” Clemont said.

“Okay, then. Thanks, Clemont.” Ash said.

The two trainers went away with Pikachu hopping onto its trainer’s right shoulder, Gardevoir being sent back to its Pokeball and Mawile catching up to the two. Ash began to worry about May. He hoped that she won't be involved in this.

“Please, be alright, dad.” Clemont prayed.

Outside, the place was more wrecked than before. Trees were brought down, more debris were everywhere. Some were even on fire. The sky was in a greater shade of dark red.

“This is getting worse. If we don’t hurry and catch the criminal, this city’s going to be history.” Ash said, gritting his teeth.

“I’ll go search for Clemont’s dad. I know where his house is. You go find the criminal.” Serena suggested.
Ash thought about it for a second. It was too risky for her to search for Clemont’s dad alone. The criminal can attack her from anywhere, anytime.

“I’ll be fine on my own. I have Gardevoir here. ” Serena reassured.

“…Ok. Just be careful, all right? I don’t want to lose you here, especially that we just got back together…” Ash said, proceeding to hug her tightly.

“I promise…” Serena whispered, returning the hug.

The two trainers released the hug, and went on separate ways. Ash went to the eastern side of the city while Serena went to the opposite side.

_______________________________________________​

Serena arrived in Clemont’s house. Inside was a mess as well. The sofa’s torn up, furniture was broken, kitchen wares were all over the place, walls and floors were cracked.

“Hello?! Is anybody here?” Serena shouted, but no reply was heard. After about 10 minutes, they found nothing.

“Mawile wile” “We should go back to Ash.” Mawile suggested.

“I guess there’s no one here then.” Serena said, walking towards the exit.

Before she went outside, she saw a small folded paper taped on the wall near the door. She felt suspicious about the paper as to why it was still clean and not crumpled. She then took the paper and unfolded it. Serena began reading what it is written on it.

‘Clemont, if you are reading this, look behind the sofa. There’s a Pokeball there I want to use in case of emergency. I can’t believe the city was already in a state of destruction in just an hour. I’m gonna find to culprit and bring justice to them. Be careful out there, son.’ was written on the paper.

“Behind the sofa?” Serena thought, and looked behind the torn sofa just beside her. There was indeed a Pokeball there. She was curious as to what Pokemon it contains, and so
she released it and revealed a Blaziken.

“Blaziken?” “Who are you?” Blaziken said.

“Blaziken? I thought for a second you were the culprit.” Serena thought

“I know you were waiting for Clemont, but he’s injured right now in his gym, and he can’t move. So it was left for me to find his dad, but I found you instead. Please aide me in search for the criminal, Blaziken.” Serena pleaded.

Blaziken thought that this girl was really honest just hearing her pleading voice, and nodded in agreement.

“Thanks, Blaziken. Please, bear with me for a while.” Serena said, returning the Pokemon to its Pokeball, and went away deep in the city in search for Ash with Mawile in the back.

_______________________________________________​

Ash was wandering aimlessly in the city, hoping to stumble upon the culprit. It seems he’s relying on luck this time. The air was too thick because of the smoke from the fire, so
running a long distance to find the culprit is out of the question.

He came across the park Clemont mentioned, and went in the center. He looked left, right, and up, but not a single clue.

“Looks like no one’s here either.” Ash said.

“Hmm?!” Ash said in alert. Pikachu felt it as well, and its cheeks were enveloped in electricity. They were on guard.

They felt like they were being watched. It felt like something was getting closer every second passes, but they couldn’t seem to spot it.

When Ash looked above, he saw an orb of light orange, coming straight towards them. The closer he looked at it, the more it seemed to be on fire. He realized it was getting closer, so he commanded Pikachu to attack it.

“Quick, Pikachu! Use Iron Tail!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu jumped from his right shoulder. Its tail glowed a bright white and clashed with the sphere of fire. Pikachu and the sphere landed on the ground after collision. Ash and Pikachu was on guard of what it might be.

The fire from the sphere began to get weaker, and revealed a Blaziken. It was wearing a mask. It perfectly fitted Clemont’s description. The trainer in a black suit might be the one behind the destruction of the city!

Ash thought that if Blaziken is here, the trainer might be as well.

“Show yourself!” Ash shouted.

5 seconds later, the trainer revealed himself. He was right beside him! How come Ash didn’t sense his presence?!

The trainer in the black suit threw a punch at Ash, only to be blocked by Pikachu’s Iron Tail.

“Perfect timing!” Ash said.

“Grr…” the mysterious trainer mumbled.

The trainer the backed away quickly, and now it was beside Blaziken.

“Hey! Why did you destroy the city? What was your purpose in doing that?! What will you gain from it?!” Ash asked in anger, but the he received no reply.

“Do you know numerous lives were taken by you and your treacherous doing?! I can’t forgive you for that!” Ash said. The mysterious trainer and Blaziken were ready to battle. Blaziken was then enveloped in the same dark blue aura Clemont described.

“If it’s a battle you want, then it’s a battle you get!” Ash said. Both he and Pikachu are gearing up for the battle.

The sky is dark, the atmosphere was heavy, and tension between them is intense. Ash had not been able to battle a trainer in a very long time. This is a chance for him to see if his training in Mt. Silver paid off. And now, the fate of the city rests in his hands.

“Begin!” Both trainers shouted.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 8 up next...

 

[Midnightmoon6o2]

I really like this story but one thing bothers me, its the way some of the characters are acting. Like with May suddenly filled with revenge to win Ash back and Clemont being so 'ok' with Ash returning after many years away. It doesn't feel like them especially with May. I really never saw her as a person that will go instantly to revenge if things didn't go her way. I expected her to feel a little jealous or depressed when she saw Ash hugging Serena or when Clemont was reunited with Ash he would shed a few tears before throwing one arm over Ash's shoulder like Ash would always do to him from time to time.

I do like some points of the story like Mawile ending up with Serena after Mable's death and that she too is in hiding. I can understand that maybe the fame is getting too much for her but there is some parts where when with Ash, such as when she asked Ash to sleep in the same bed with her in the night and then saying mission accomplish sounds a little desperate of her. This isn't the Serena I like and I'm sure you don't mean to portray any of these characters this way and maybe I'm just thinking into this too deeply.

With all that said I am hooked into this story because of the advanceshipping jokes. All these Amour fics I have been reading lately are really good and makes me wanna write a new one of my own again. XD.

Keep up the good work and I hope to read the next chapter from you soon.

 

[matthew11]

I really like this story but one thing bothers me, its the way some of the characters are acting. Like with May suddenly filled with revenge to win Ash back and Clemont being so 'ok' with Ash returning after many years away. It doesn't feel like them especially with May. I really never saw her as a person that will go instantly to revenge if things didn't go her way. I expected her to feel a little jealous or depressed when she saw Ash hugging Serena or when Clemont was reunited with Ash he would shed a few tears before throwing one arm over Ash's shoulder like Ash would always do to him from time to time.

I do like some points of the story like Mawile ending up with Serena after Mable's death and that she too is in hiding. I can understand that maybe the fame is getting too much for her but there is some parts where when with Ash, such as when she asked Ash to sleep in the same bed with her in the night and then saying mission accomplish sounds a little desperate of her. This isn't the Serena I like and I'm sure you don't mean to portray any of these characters this way and maybe I'm just thinking into this too deeply.

With all that said I am hooked into this story because of the advanceshipping jokes. All these Amour fics I have been reading lately are really good and makes me wanna write a new one of my own again. XD.

Keep up the good work and I hope to read the next chapter from you soon.

Yes. I actually noticed that as well a month ago. My bad for making them OOC hehe. When it comes to writing, I sometimes tend to make it 'cool' or exaggerating without noticing. Ah well, but I can still make them in character in later chapters.

As for Serena being a little bit... 'desperate', I can see that instance when she gets older, so I just had to put it in there for 'cute' points. And nope, you're not overthinking it.

I'm glad you are enjoying my story, but may I ask, where are the advanceshipping jokes? I don't remember making them xD

 

[Midnightmoon6o2]

Yes. I actually noticed that as well a month ago. My bad for making them OOC hehe. When it comes to writing, I sometimes tend to make it 'cool' or exaggerating without noticing. Ah well, but I can still make them in character in later chapters.

As for Serena being a little bit... 'desperate', I can see that instance when she gets older, so I just had to put it in there for 'cute' points. And nope, you're not overthinking it.

I'm glad you are enjoying my story, but may I ask, where are the advanceshipping jokes? I don't remember making them xD

A the advanceshipping jokes, I forgot to put a comma so you misunderstood it. it was suppose to look like this 'because of the advanceshipping, jokes.'

Maybe I should stay away from the internet after a day surgrey. Ehehe....I sound like a idiot now. :/

 

[matthew11]

Chapter 8: The Pokemon Master Versus The Trainer In A Black Suit​

It was all in his hands; the fate of the city. Ash is now facing an enemy, an enemy with a masked identity. ‘All that is left to do is to defeat him’ is all in his mind right now. An inevitable event full of emotions will befall. And unfortunately, he doesn’t seem know that it is coming for him and his cracked heart.

The sky was enveloped in a very dark shade of red, the atmosphere was heavy, the area was showered with large debris, and some were even on fire, trees were brought down. Everything was chaotic because of a rampaging Pokemon, whose trainer’s mind was void of everything but destruction. And this is it, the battle between the Master himself and the embodiment of chaos, taking place inside the destroyed Lumious City.

Pikachu readied itself for the battle of the century. Its cheeks were cracking with electrifying power. Its power can be felt all over the city. It definitely improved 10-fold during its training back in Mt. Silver, and this will be the very first time since then that it will be able to show its strong power, determination and spirit.

Ash had his hands balled up into fists, seemingly all fired-up for the powerful battle. But something was a little off for him. His heart was suspiciously beating in a faster rate than normal. Why is that? It felt to him that he seem to remember this person, but two things are in his way of identifying; the mask the trainer is wearing, and his feelings. Why are his feelings involved in this? He then shook these thoughts off. He readied himself for the battle.

The trainer on the other side seems to be very neutral to everything. He’s movements were exceptional, back when he suddenly appeared beside Ash without notice and the endurance he showed when he was blacked by Pikachu’s Iron Tail. The only thing the trainer hasn’t displayed yet was his emotions.

Blaziken was enveloped in dark blue aura, seemingly powering up its offensive and defensive abilities. If it was measured by Clemont’s invention to check for the Pokemon’s statuses, the machine could’ve exploded in a matter of seconds due to its sky-high power, apparently breaking the record for the fastest time before exploding, previously held by Korrina’s Mega Lucario.

The tensions between both sides can be felt in the air. Ash’s fired-up mood mixed with his opponent’s destructive wishes makes it happen. Everything was set. And now…

“Begin!” Both trainers shouted. The most powerful battle yet has started.

“Use Quick Attack!” Ash commanded immediately, his right arm swinging from left to right.

Pikachu ran swiftly, enveloped in a white aura, to tackle Blaziken with bodily strength. Blaziken was just standing still.

“Block it with Fire Punch.” The trainer commanded. He’s opponent, Ash, cannot seem to identify if the trainer was a boy or a girl.

Blaziken had its hands balled up into fist and engulfed them with blazing fire, and held its hands in front of it, waiting for the impact.

“It looks like he wants to inflict burn on Pikachu…” Ash thought. He thought carefully on his next move. “Jump, and use Iron Tail on Blaziken’s head!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu jumped high in the air, maintaining its speed from its previous attack. Its tail began to transform into hard steel, and rushed onto its opponent’s head. The attack connected, with Blaziken’s head pushed down from its opponent’s impact. But it was unfazed by the attack. And it soon swung a right Fire Punch hook on Pikachu’s left side who took the hit. Pikachu landed a definite distance away from Blaziken. It, too, took the attack with ease. But Ash gritted his teeth from the disappointing sight. He thought that Pikachu’s Iron Tail was enough to flinch the opponent. It looks like he was underestimating it.

Ash then thought about his next strategic move.

“Use Quick Attack once more!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu, again, swiftly ran towards its enemy like before. But this time, the Blaziken moved by jumping high above the air without its trainer’s command to do so.

“Blaze Kick.” The opponent commanded without emotion in his voice.

Blaziken engulfed its feet with blazing fire more intensely than its previous attack. The blue flame in which all fire has in its core seems to be a little visible from a distance. It then did a front flip, and, to Ash’s and Pikachu’s dismay, it disappeared out of sight. All they saw was visible vertical lines after its disappearance.

A second after it disappeared, it showed up above Pikachu with its right blazing foot above its opponent, and began to swiftly stomp its opponent with its heel. Fortunately, Ash had enough time to block its attack.

“Electro Ball!” Ash commanded once Blaziken was back in sight.

Pikachu jumped very low from the ground and then had its back against the ground while in mid-air. It then formed a ball cracking with electrifying power below Blaziken’s blazing foot, seemingly blocking the attack.

The explosion from the powerful impact sent Blaziken flying a definite distance away from Pikachu, while the latter was lying on a crater created from the explosion. Blaziken landed safely on the ground. Pikachu stood up immediately. It took minimal damage from its opponent’s attack though.

Ash needed to know his opponent’s strategy, and so…

“Use Thunderbolt!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu’s cheeks were cracking with shocking electricity, and unleashed a line of lightning towards Blaziken.

“Endure it with Fire Punch, and walk towards the enemy.” The opponent commanded emotionlessly. “What?!” Ash said in shock.

Blaziken engulfed its hands in blazing fire once more, and held it in front of itself. Lightning struck the hands of the opponent, and was sliced into two lights of lightning; one
going left and the other one to the right. One line of electricity struck a nearby tree and engulfed it in flame, and the other one struck a deserted building. Blaziken walked slowly towards Pikachu, who seem to continue unleashing bolts of electricity towards Blaziken.

Ash looked at the situation in hand. It seems to be very familiar to him. This similar situation happened back when he was battling Lance and his Dragonite for the title of Kanto and Johto champion. He failed to command his Pokemon to avoid its attack back then. But this time it will be different.

“Use Electro Ball while using Thunderbolt!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu, while still unleashing bolts of electricity unto its opponent, concentrated with medium effort in forming another ball of cracking electricity, and launched it inside the line of lightning Pikachu was unleashing. It flew towards its target faster since it’s surrounded by electricity. Not only that, but it absorb a large amount of electricity from its surroundings, making its size larger. And finally, it hit the target, causing an explosion, and sending it flying towards a standing tree, taking the tree down in the process.

“Pikachu! Pika!” “We did it, Ash!!” Pikachu said, jumping up and down from happiness.

“…Hold on…” Ash said, suspicious as to the current state of Blaziken. It seems that the battle isn’t over yet.

Blaziken stood up. Dirt as well as its wounds were instantly gone as the aura generated from the mask enveloped its entire body. But it was panting a little.

“A bulky one, huh? Pikachu, let’s crack the mask first.” Ash said.

“Pikachu… Pika!” “I will… defeat you!” Pikachu said, readying for the second phase of the battle.

_______________________________________​

Serena was walking aimlessly in the chaotic city, hoping to find Ash. It looks as if she was relying on luck. She felt very sad upon seeing each and every destroyed building and each and every burned tree she passes by. The air was very heavy that time around, so she was having a little hard time breathing the air. Mawile was beside her, reassuring Serena that Ash will be okay.

“Ash! Where are you?!” Serena shouted with her loudest voice. Unfortunately, there was no response.

“Mawile maw mawile.” “Don’t worry, Serena. Ash will be okay.” Mawile reassured.

“I hope so. I’m sure, if he’s battling the culprit right now, he can handle it.” Serena said, making Mawile smile.

“Mawile maw.” “No, he can’t.” Mawile said, out of nowhere. The words made Serena widen her eyes in disbelief.

“What? Why would you say that about Ash?” Serena asked.

“Maw mawile mawile maw mawile.”“It’s because you’re not there to cheer him on hehe.” Mawile said with a sly smile.

“Geez, Mawile. Cut it out. This isn’t the right time to joke around.” Serena said, her cheeks were scarlet red upon hearing those words.

“Mawile maw! Mawile maw mawile mawile maw. Maw mawile maw maw.” “I’m so sorry hehe! It’s just that I feel worried too seeing you all worried and all. I wanted you to feel, you know, not worried, since this is Ash we’re talking about.” Mawile responded with a smile.

Serena smiled upon hearing the response. “Thank you, Mawile.” Serena said.

After a short while, they heard a faint explosion from afar. It’s not a natural explosion, and it seems to be coming from the park’s direction where she and Ash reunited.

“Mawile?” “What could that be? I wonder…” Mawile said.

“Let’s go check it out. I feel that Ash is there.” Serena said. Both she and Mawile ran straight towards the sound’s direction.

_______________________________________​

The second phase of the battle begins. Both trainers and Pokemon now know each other’s movements.

Blaziken is seen standing up, enveloped in a dark blue aura like before, with dirt and wounds being healed by it. Ash and Pikachu readied themselves for the upcoming phase.

“Flare Blitz.” The opponent said.

Blaziken readied itself, jumped high above the air, and flew down towards Pikachu while being engulfed in burning flame. The flame, which it is engulfed around Blaziken, was so intense that it made Ash sweat even from a long distance. The waters from a nearby lake of the city began to evaporate slowly due to the intensity of the flame.

The orb of flame began to look as though it was the sun itself as it was nearing its target. Ash needed a stronger defense. And a familiar idea crossed his mind. He didn’t want Pikachu to dodge the orb of fire. He needed to see how far his Pokemon improved. After all, this is the first time in many years he was able to battle a trainer once more.

“Use Iron Electro Ball to block it!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu had its tail transformed into hard-steel, and created an orb of cracking electricity once more. It jumped high above towards the incoming Blaziken.

The two attacks clashed with each other. They were holding their ground (or air) to see who has the better endurance. The two attacks created tiny flames crashing to the ground below and electricity flying everywhere. Ash gritted his teeth, praying for Pikachu to endure the attack, while his opponent stood there silently, watching the show.
Pikachu’s steel-like tail came into contact with Blaziken’s mask from the right, while the latter’s left fist attacked Pikachu’s left side. Both were sent flying in opposite directions, but both landed safely afterwards. It looked to Ash that both Pokemon were reaching their exhaustion. When he looked on Blaziken, its mask had a visible crack. It was time to end the battle.

Ash thought that the nearby water is the best resting place for the Blaziken. He devised a perfect plan to do so.

“Pikachu! Run towards the lake on your right and swim!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu did what it was told to do. It ran and jumped on the waters of the lake and began to swim a definite distance away.

“Chase after it.” The opponent commanded.

Blaziken chased after Pikachu. It dived into the waters of the lake. The water which surrounds the Pokemon began evaporating from high temperature, making the Pokemon swim faster than normal. Ash ran towards the steel barriers, keeping an eye out for Blaziken to make its next move. The trainer walked towards the steel barriers as well.

“Sky Uppercut.” The opponent commanded.

Blaziken swam down beneath Pikachu. It crouched down a little with its right hand balled up in a hard fist, and threw a powerful upper cut below Pikachu.

“Perfect! Just what I had in mind!” Ash exclaimed. “Use Iron Tail to block it!” Ash shouted.

Pikachu’s steel-like tail blocked the incoming attack below, but the force was more than enough to send it as well as Blaziken out of the water. Sprinkles of water surround the
battling Pokemon.

“Use Iron Tail to send it back in the water!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu did a front flip, and hit Blaziken’s head with its steel-like tail. The results sent Blaziken falling in the waters below. Pikachu was still in mid-air.

“Now use Thunderbolt, full power!” Ash commanded.

Pikachu unleashed a massive amount of electricity onto the waters where Blaziken resides. The latter saw the incoming attack, and braced for it. The powerful electricity enveloped the entire lake within two seconds, shocking everything that is under it, including Blaziken. Fire, electricity, and water combined together resulted in a massive explosion underwater. The force of the explosion was enough to send Blaziken, who was underwater, back to the battlefield.

Pikachu swam back to the battlefield to ready itself for another phase. It was soaking wet, and had to shake excess water. After that, it eyed Blaziken, who was lying on the ground, exhausted.

The mask that Blaziken was wearing had a large crack. The mask broke, and disappeared into the air.

“Looks like we won.” Ash said, smiling.

“Pikachu!” “We won!” Pikachu exclaimed while jumping up and down for its victory.

From a visible distance, Serena and Mawile were seen arriving, late for the intense battle.

“Ash!” Serena said, and ran towards his direction. Mawile ran to catch up. Serena hugged Ash in relief.

“I’m so glad you’re okay.” Serena whispered. Ash returned the hug.

“I’m glad YOU’RE okay.” Ash said, emphasizing on the word You’re, to which Serena blushes a little upon hearing. Both trainers broke the hug, and had their eyes on the trainer in a black suit of armor. Both Pikachu and Mawile were ready to bring justice upon the culprit.

“Give up. You can’t win against us. You are responsible for the destruction of the city and for the lives of many. And now, I shall bring justice upon you!” Ash said, pointing at the culprit.

Little did he knew, a Pokemon was floating above him the entire time. The Pokemon held a small cube, and dropped it above Ash. Before the cube made contact, it transformed into a cage, and then fell on Ash. The latter as well as Serena, Mawile, and Pikachu was surpised. The steel bars of the cage then began to glow a bright white. It’s purpose is unknown.

“Ash!” Serena exclaimed, pulling the steel bars from the cage in a attempt to free Ash, but to no avail. She then looked above, searching for the source of the cage. She spotted a squid-like Pokemon, decending below, and now beside the culprit. It was a Malamar.

“Malamar!” Serena exclaimed. Mawile readied itself for the battle, while Pikachu was helping Ash by using Iron Tail to destroy the cage, but to no avail as well.

“A spectacular battle as always. I seem to have no chance of winning against you.” A familiar voice was heard. Behind a standing tree, he revealed himself. He had round goggles, his skin was that of a ghost’s, and was wearing two black gloves and an orange suit, signifying that he is part of the now disbanded Team Flare. He was Xerosic.

“Xerosic! So you’re the one behind all of this!” Ash said, gritting his teeth in anger.

“…I remember you… You’re the one responsible for the death of Emma, trying to make her your test subject. You’re a sick man! You should be punished!” Serena exclaimed.

“Ohoo! And how will you do that, my dear, if one of you is unable to battle?” Xerosic said, nearing the trainer in the black suit and his Malamar.

“I-” Ash said, but was cut off by Serena’s shocking response.

“I will! I know I’m not strong, but my will and determination is stronger than your wickedness!” Serena claimed, taking out a Pokeball of her own, readying for her own battle.

“Ohoo! This is a surprise! But you have a thousand years to train to even inflict damage to my Pokemon.” Xerosic said.

“Serena, don’t!” Ash said in objection. He knows that Serena is strong, but she is not strong enough to battle an enemy which backed them against a wall before. He knows
Xerosic is now stronger than ever. And with that Malamar beside him, she has no match against him.

“I know. I’ll just buy some time for you to get out of that cage.” Serena responded.

“There’s no use in getting out of that cage, my dear.” Xerosic said.

“What?” The two trainers asked.

“Do you see the bars glowing white? The bars are what prevents everything from destroying it, be it Pokemon moves or not. The cage also shrinks its size in time, crushing anything that is inside!” Xerosic said.

Both Ash and Serena gasped in shock. Seeing the hopeless situation and Pikachu exhausted from the battle, Ash had no idea to do about it. He can only hope for Serena to win the battle, or for fortune. Pikachu then tried its theory by using Iron Tail on the cage. It seems that Xerosic was right. It didn’t even leave a scratch.

“Hmm. But I will take your offer into consideration. If you can defeat this subject of mine right here, I shall battle you. What do you say?” Xerosic suggested.

“If I win against him and you, you will release Ash.” Serena said.

“And what if you lose?” Xerosic asked, to which he did not receive any response from the female trainer.

“If you can’t give me any agreeable deal, I’ll make one. If you lose, I’ll make you my own test subject.” Xerosic said.

“What!” All opposing trainers and Pokemon said all at once.

“Wha… What should I do? If I lose… I… I…” Serena thought in dismay. Seeing the situation in front of her, it seems that she has no chance of winning against either opponent. All she can rely on from here on out is luck.

“You can do it, Serena.” Ash reassured.

“What?” Serena asked.

“I know you can beat them, I know you can. With your determination and spirit, you can beat anyone, as long as you and your Pokemon work together as one.” Ash said, to which Serena’s eyes widen.

“I believe in you.” Ash said.

After a short moment, Serena responded, “Thank you, Ash. I’ll win for both of us, and for the city. I won’t disappoint you.” Serena said, closing her eyes, and opened them upon her opponents with fiery determination.

“That’s my girl! Give it all you’ve got! Show me your true power!” Xerosic said. His subject pulled out his Pokeball and returned the fainted Blaziken back. Putting it back, he then pulled out another, and threw the ball in the air. The Pokeball opened, flashes of light began escaping the ball, and materialized into a Glaceon, who is also wearing the same mask the Blaziken was wearing a while ago. Glaceon made a defensive stance, signifying its readiness for the battle.

“So, are you ready, girl?” Xerosic said.

“Go Sylveon!” Serena exclaimed and threw a Pokeball in the air. Light flashed from inside the Pokeball, and materialized into a graceful Sylveon. It also made a stance.

“You can do it, Serena.” Ash thought. The cage began shrinking very slowly. Pikachu was resting beside Mawile. Xerosic was now the acting referee of the battle. He walked to the central outer part of the field with his Malamar beside him.

“I shall be the referee of this battle. This will be a 3-on-3 battle! Are both trainers ready?” Xerosic said. Both trainers nodded in the affirmative.

Everything seems to be resting in Serena’s hands now; Ash’s life, the city’s fate, her fate. She knew she isn’t strong enough to beat such trainer and villain, but that is to be determined by her spirit and determination. If both of these things are strong enough, then she can overcome any challenges. Now, the second battle is about to start, and Serena has only one goal in mind; to defeat her opponent and Xerosic, here and now!

“Begin!” Xerosic said.

_______________________________________​

Somewhere in Lumious City, a man walks to find the culprit, to no luck. He was searching for him around the city for the past hour. All that’s left searching from is the Prism tower. The man’s name? He’s name is Meyer, Clemont’s father, and the masked man who keeps an eye out for any mischief in the city.

They walked on the center of the city, only to find the tower was tilted a little. His Ampharos beside him pointed to the door, leading to the interior of the tower.

“What? Why is the door busted opened?” Meyer suspected, and ran inside to find something. Ampharos ran to catch up to its trainer.

The gym was lit a little on the other side upon coming in. The two approached the light, and saw Meyer’s son Clemont, Electivire, and a Dragonite. Meyer gasped as he saw his son’s injured right arm. Clemont has his eyes closed, apparently sleeping. The bandage wrapped on his injured right arm was visible to Meyer.

“Clemont!” Meyer said, and rushed to his son’s aide. Ampharos went there as well.

“Are you okay, son? Who did this to you?” Meyer asked.

“Dad?... Dad? Dad! You’re okay!” Clemont said upon waking up and proceeded to hug his father. The latter returned the hug.

“Who did this to you, son? I will never forgive the person who did this to you…” Meyer said.

“I’ll talk about it later. But for now, did you see Ash and Serena on your way here?” Clemont asked.

“You mean those trainers you used to travel with? No, I didn’t.” Meyer said.

“Wait. If you said that, then Ash and Serena might be here as well.” Meyer added.

For a father and son’s conversation, it seems to be too small, as the ceiling began to crumble from instability of the building.

“Oh no! Let’s get out of here, Quick!” Meyer exclaimed. He carried his son on his back, and ran towards the exit. The Pokemon followed him.

“Once they were outside, they watched as the Prism Tower meets its impending death. They ran further away to avoid debris, and to see its end. One by one, debris fall from various parts of the building. The tilted tower began slowly tilting further, until it was too heavy to maintain its stability. It began crashing down, resulting in a loud breaking of cement and glasses. Once the smoke clear, they saw the tower in its dead state. Clemont was utterly sad, seeing his gym brought down by a rampaging Pokemon.

“It’s okay, son. The gym can be rebuilt once this city is at peace. For now, let’s looks for Ash and Serena.” Meyer reassured.

“Dragonite, please look from the skies to find Ash and Serena.” Clemont said. The dragon Pokemon nodded, and flew high above the ground in search for Serena and its trainer.

“I hope their okay…” Clemont said in worry.

They began walking aimlessly around the city, in search for their allies. It was really chaotic outside for Clemont, as this was the first time he saw the city in its current state. He couldn’t imagine that a rampaging Pokemon, namely Blaziken, and its trainer singlehandedly did this to the city. He promised to everyone, the people of the city and his dad, that he will bring justice upon the culprit with all his strength not only as a citizen, but also as a gym leader.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 9 coming up next...

 

[Midnightmoon6o2]

Great chapter once again. I felt like everyone was more in character in this one and the battle between Ash and the masked woman man was very intense. I'm guessing after the battle Blaziken and the trainer fled as soon Ash and Serena reunited with one another until Xerosic showed up. I'm really excited for Serena's battle and see if Ash or Serena will become the test subject along side with possibly the masked trainer with Blaziken? Idk, these are just wild guesses here.

Anyway keep it up! Until the next chapter!

 

[matthew11]

Note that this chapter may undergo unannounced changes...

Chapter 8: The Kalos Queen VS The Trainer In A Black Suit​

All that seems to be hopeless, seems to have little hope left, as Serena is entrapped in a 3 on 3 battle against the destroyer of Lumious City. Now that the battle is about to start, she has sent out her Sylveon, against the opponent’s Glaceon. She is very much aware of how powerful this trainer is, and she has to be careful about what comes next. While she clearly has little experience in battling, hope and determination can lift the chance of winning up very high.

As always, her opponent, the trainer in a black suit, is quietly standing from the opposite side of the battlefield. His Glaceon gets ready for battle by showing an offensive and aggressive stance while being cloaked by a dark blue aura coming from the mask it wears. While his opponent seems to be tensed, Xerosic, on the otherhand, is quite confident about the situation. He definitely knows that this situation is in his favor. And after which it was settled, regardless of each and every positive cases he had thought beforehand, he’ll go away with the prize, that is, Serena being his test subject.

On the sidelines, or in other words inside a cage, Ash is holding onto the bars to watch the battle. Even though the cage is shrinking, and eventually crushing him in the process with no way out, his hope is still standing firmly. Pikachu is seen helping Ash get out of the cage, to no avail. Mawile is on Serena’s left side, ready to be sent out for battle in case the situation gets tight.

Tension seems to be visible in the air, as Xerosic finally announced that the battle has begun. Time’s ticking for Serena, as, like playing chess, Serena has to look four to five moves ahead of time to conserve her Pokemon’s energy for her battle against Xerosic himself.

The place seems to be that of Hell. Everything seems to be engulfed on fire, flames that consume everything in its path, heat that reigns in the atmosphere. Buildings that seems to be that of the ancient times. River water’s crystal clear state became very dirty. It was really an image of chaos. But, for such a tight and tensive situation, this place is the perfect spot to settle it.

“Begin!” Xerosic said. His Malamar on his side, paying attention to what is about to come and readies for analysis of the opponent’s moves and strategies.

“This is it… I have to be careful. First I need to know what moves he will -” Serena thought, but was interrupted from the sound of her opponent’s command.

“Ice Beam on the ground.” Her opponent emotionlessly commanded.

Glaceon gathered coldness from the air in front of its mouth. It was so cold that it can counter the entire heat that rules over the city. It then fired a blue lightning of cold air
towards the ground, freezing it in an instant. Although the slipperiness of the ground doesn’t affect Glaceon, it does affect Sylveon’s mobility greatly.

“Oh no!” Serena said in horror. Sylveon is now having trouble standing up. Its feet, every second, would slip, rendering its mobility and stance useless.

“Shadow Ball.” Her opponent commanded once again.

Glaceon formed an eerie black sphere made of darkness. It moved its head backwards, moved it back, and launched the sphere towards Sylveon, who is still trying to stand.

“Br-brace for impact, Sylveon!” Serena shouted.

The Fairy-Type Pokemon saw the incoming attack. Sylveon’s feelers surrounds her front, bracing for impact. The sphere of darkness made contact with Sylveon seconds later, and the latter was sent a few feet away from where it was before from the small explosion. Sylveon was seen lying on the ground, but unharmed. The ground was still slippery
from the ice that covers it, and so Sylveon tries to stand up again, but it still fails to do so.

“Sylveon! Use Light Screen!” Serena commanded.

Sylveon, even when lying on the ground, still managed to set up a defensive move. A clear, green screen appeared before the Fairy Type, and then the latter glowed for a second, signifying it’s strengthening of its special defense. Any damage special moves dealt upon it will now be cut in half.

“It’s no use, my girl. Using a defensive move like that is only stalling your defeat.” Xerosic said, wearing out Serena’s concentration to the battle.

“Grr… What should I… I know!” Serena thought. “If Sylveon can’t move using the ground… then…” Serena continued.

“Shadow Ball.” The opponent emotionlessly commanded again.

Glaceon formed another sphere of darkness and launched it towards its opponent.

“Sylveon, stand up and keep your balance!” Serena said, and so Sylveon did what it was ordered to do. Despite the slipperiness of the ground, Sylveon was able to stand up, but just for a second. And in that second was the sphere meters away from it.

“Now jump and use Moonblast!” Serena commanded.

Syveon was inches away from getting hit by the sphere, and dodging it by jumping was too close. After dodging the attack, it formed a sphere made of moon light shining down
upon it. It launched the sphere towards Glaceon. But the opponent had enough time to command for a counterattack.

“Jump and use Iron Tail.” The opponent commanded, to the dismay of Serena. Steel-type moves are very effective against Fairy-types after all.

Sylveon was still up in the air, not able to move by means of touching another object. Glaceon jumped high up in the air and its tail glowed a bright white and turned into steel. It then slammed its tail on Sylveon’s left side. Sylveon was sent crashing down to the ground and wincing the intense pain afterwards.

“Sylveon! Are you alright?!” Serena asked. Sylveon was still recovering from the pain, and then nodded to its trainer to the affirmative.

“Good…” Serena thought, and now feels the tightness of the situation at hand.

On the sidelines, Ash has been watching the battle from the start, and now had this weird feeling from it. The trainer in the black suit was getting his attention more than Serena. It felt to him that he had seen this man before, just by looking at his current roster. But regardless, he continues to watch the battle.
Serena is struggling to come up with a strategy. Although the opponent had shown 3 of its moves, she can’t seem to counter every move it makes. But for now, she has to strengthen her Pokemon’s special attack and defense and hope for her attacks can hit the target.

“Use Calm Mind!” Serena commanded.

“Oh, this is interesting. Raising special attack and defense. I see, you want to win the match by setting up? That’s risky, and I like it.” Xerosic said.

“Grr…” Serena gritted her teeth in anger from Xerosic’s remarks. She comes back into her concentration to the battle.

Sylveon is seen with its eyes closed, erasing everything in its mind, and raising its special attack and defense. The only problem is, the ground is still slippery for Sylveon to stand up.

“Why hasn’t the ice melted yet? The heat from surrounding flames is so intense, so it should melt right away.” Ash asked to himself rather loudly, which Xerosic heard and answered that question.

“That’s because the mask that amplifies the Pokemon’s moves also greatly amplifies its after effects. Be grateful that the masked man didn’t decide to hit your girl’s Pokemon with Ice Beam. Bwahaha!” Xerosic said.

“Ugh… Serena has to find a way to melt the ice… Think think think, Ash. Think!” Ash thought for an idea to melt the ice for getting back Sylveon’s mobility. After a moment of silence in his mind, he has come up with a strategy.

“Serena!” Ash called out to her to share his knowledge.

“Yeah?” Serena replied curiously, turning her head to face Ash.

“Does Sylveon have any move that scatters, or covers a large area?” Ash asked.

“Uhhh… Swift.” Serena answered.

“That’s it! Use Swift on the ground to destroy the ice!” Ash said.

“Oh you’re right! Got it!” Serena said, and turning her head back to the battlefield. “Sylveon, use Swift on the frozen ground!” Serena commanded.

Several stars appeared and surrounded Sylveon. The Fairy-Type commanded the stars to strike the frozen ground. Every star created craters on impact for Sylveon to stand and attack the enemy without being immobile.

“Working as a team, eh? That’s fine. At the very least, the moment my subject has been defeated is when that girl’s Pokemon will be extremely tired. And that’s when I claim
victory by default!” Xerosic thought.

“Go to the crater on your right and use Moonblast!” Serena commanded.

Sylveon jumped into the crater to its right and from there created another sphere of moonlight. This time it was larger than before since it used Calm Mind beforehand. It launched the sphere towards the opponent. Surprisingly, the opponent didn’t command Glaceon to dodge the attack, instead it let it take the hit. But before the sphere made contact with Glaceon,

“Mirror Coat.” The opponent commanded. Ash and Serena gasp in horror.

“Oh no! Mirror Coat does twice the damage it takes from special attacks! And the fact that Sylveon used Calm Mind…” Ash said.

The sphere hit the target, and caused a small explosion. After the smoke clears, there is a pink light screen in front of Glaceon. The screen then generated light made from the impact of the last attack, and then was launched towards Sylveon, who is still in mid-air, in a flash of light. The light made a very painful impact on Sylveon, and the latter was sent flying many meters away outside the battlefield and crashing to the ground in a loud thud, seemingly fainting in the process.

“Sy-Sylveon!” Serena shouted in concern and ran towards it for aid. A tear from Serena’s right eye is visible from Ash’s point of view. The latter looked on the injured Pokemon with a concerned look. Pikachu and Mawile watched the scene in concern as well.
Serena is on Sylveon’s side, helping it get up.

“Sylveon, are you okay? I’m so sorry I’ve put you into this…” Serena said softly, crying a little.

“Heh…” Xerosic smirked on the sidelines, and proceeded to call the match, until,

“Sylveon?” Serena asked upon seeing her Pokemon get up, readying itself for the second phase of the battle.

“Sylveon! You can’t battle anymore when you’re in that kind of state! You have to rest!” Serena reassured.

“Sylve sylveon… Sylveon” “I can’t do that right now. Remember, the fate of the city rests in your hands. I can’t disappoint you now, mistress.” Sylveon said weakly.

“But…” Serena said, beginning to protest.

“Sylveon sylveon sylve.” “And besides, this is a battle between two former Eevees. My pride’s on the line as well.” Sylveon said, struggling to stand up, to no avail.

“But you’re injured… I shouldn’t have called you out… I’m such a weak trainer…” Serena said, still protesting. Tears are beginning racing down her cheeks.

“Syveon sylve sylveon sylveon sy sylve.” “Please don’t say that. Trust me, mistress. You and I can win this battle. We only need determination and spirit. Let’s not forget about hope.” Sylveon reassured and smiled weakly. Those words reminded her of Ash just moments ago before this battle. A flash of memory appeared in Serena’s mind.

-------------------------------------------------------------------​

"You can do it, Serena." Ash reassured.

"What?" Serena asked.

"I know you can beat them, I know you can. With your determination and spirit, you can beat anyone, as long as you and your Pokemon work together as one." Ash said, to which Serena's eyes widen.

"I believe in you." Ash said.

After a short moment, Serena responded, "Thank you, Ash. I'll win for both of us, and for the city. I won't disappoint you." Serena said, closing her eyes, and opened them upon her opponents with fiery determination.

-------------------------------------------------------------------​

Serena closed her eyes, remembering this moment, this moment that gave her confidence to win. And a moment of silence shroud the whole place, until Serena opened her eyes with fiery determination. Ash was seen with a very glad expression, seeing that Serena didn’t break down in tears just because she was weak. He knows that she’s strong, stronger than anyone else he had known.

“Thank you, Sylveon. Let’s win this.” Serena said, wiping her tears away.

“Let’s win this, mistress.” Sylveon said, now able to get up on her feet and proceeded onto the battlefield once again.

“Finished with your little chit-chat?” Xerosic said impatiently.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get your lose right away.” Serena replied, to which Xerosic smirked.

“Heh. Looks like someone’s going to eat her words.” Xerosic said.

“And that’s you!” Serena said. Xerosic flinched on the sudden remark.

“Sylveon, use Last Resort!” Serena commanded.

Sylveon began running towards her opponent like there’s no tomorrow. Sylveon then created stars similar to Swift, but this time these stars are different. They’re meant for something else.

When Sylveon finally made contact with the opponent with great impact, the stars then made their way to the opponent’s front, and pushed it away from their source with great speed and power, sending it flying several meters away in a horizontal direction. Glaceon was seen sliding on the ground afterwards, and wincing the pain from sliding on the rough ground.

“What?” Xerosic said in surprise.

“Now, use Moonblast to finish it!” “Shadow Ball.” Serena and the trainer in the black suit commanded at the same time.

Due to the current state of both Pokemon, Sylveon was obviously faster than Glaceon, and so it created its sphere of moon light and immediately launched it towards its target. Glaceon, on the other hand, was slow from wincing the pain, but had enough time to create a dark sphere once more, and launched it towards the opponent.

Both spheres made impact on both Pokemon, resulting a small explosion from each. As the smoke clears out, Sylveon was seen with swirling eyes, much to Serena’s dismay until she saw Glaceon’s mask was destroyed, and similar swirling eyes was seen as well, signifying its fainted state. The ice that covers the floor has melted away upon Glaceon fainting.

“Urggh… Both Pokemon are unable to battle.” Xerosic called the battle in disappointment.

Serena walked towards her fainted Pokemon to say a few things.

“You did well, Sylveon. Take a nice long rest and thank you for the encouraging words from before.” Serena congratulated her Pokemon for its great achievement.

“My pleasure, mistress. I’m always happy to help you whenever you’re down.” Sylveon said before closing her eyes to rest. Serena took out its Pokeball and sent Sylveon back into it. On the other side of the battlefield, the opponent was seen returning his fainted Pokemon back to its respective Pokeball.
After returning her Pokemon, Serena went back to her respective side of the battle field.

“It seems that I have slightly underestimated you, girl. But you’ll be defeated here later regardless of your puny encouragements from your friends.” Xerosic said in a malicious voice.

“We’ll see about that.” Serena said confidently.

“Send out our next Pokemon.” Xerosic said as a referee once more.

His subject took out a Pokeball. He threw it in the air and several lights escape the ball and materialized into a masked Beautifly. The butterfly Pokemon flew in the air gracefully,
and suddenly stretched its wings to send particles falling to the ground below. A dark blue aura surrounds the Pokemon as well.

“Beautifly?... This can’t be… Could it be… This roster… I’ve seen this before!” Ash said from the cage from his astonishing assumption.

Serena took out a foreign Pokeball from her pocket. It seems that she’s curious as to the potential the Pokemon inside has. She had felt the strong potential of this Pokemon upon seeing it for the first time. And so, that potential will be taking the test.

“Come out, Blaziken!” Serena said, throwing the ball in the air in the process.

“Blaziken!?” Ash said in surprise.

The light from within the ball escaped and turned into a Blaziken. The chicken Pokemon was confused about the surrounding area, until it saw the opposing Beautifly wearing a suspicious mask. It then makes an offensive stance.

“Blay. Blaziken blaziken.” “Girl. Can you explain?” Blaziken asked its temporary trainer in curiosity.

“Got it. We’ve found the culprit who destroyed the city. And Beautifly is the second opponent we have to defeat.” Serena said. Blaziken looked towards the person Serena pointed out. Upon seeing the person, the chicken Pokemon felt intense anger from the familiar sight, and was about to unleash its anger towards it.

Xerosic was familiar about the Blaziken. “Blaziken… Long time no see. Come to meet your end once and for all? Too bad your trainer isn’t here to witness that Bwahahaha!”
Xerosic maliciously laughed, angering Blaziken further. It was about to attack him, until Malamar had to come between them.

Both Pokemon are standing, face to face, merely inches from each other. Blaziken knew how powerful this Malamar was, and so it obeyed the quiet command and jumped back to Serena’s side to cool down its head.

“Blaziken… Blaziken…” “Just you wait, you foul beast… Just you wait…” Blaziken whispered to its own, its lip twitching at the side from anger, as if it was about to growl.

“What’s wrong, Blaziken?” Serena asked.

“Blaziken Blay” “Nothing. Just a personal issue.” Blaziken reassured.

“Okay then. Just get prepared for the battle. And please, bear with me” Serena said.

“Wait… Serena, where did you get that?” Ash asked from the cage. Pikachu was also curious.

“I got this from Clemont’s house. Seems that his father left it for him. But since Clemont’s still recovering from his injuries back in the tower, I had to take his place.” Serena
answered.

A moment of intense silence cloaked the entire field. This is the second phase of a battle of life and death. And judging by the size of the cage Ash was in, it seems she has more time than what she had thought before. Both Pokemon, Blaziken and Beautifly, are in there battle stance, ready for the upcoming battle.

“Begin!” Xerosic called the battle to start.

“Uhh.. Fire Punch!” Serena, though took more than one second to tell a command, was able to guess a right move.

Blaziken has set its fists with burning hot flames, and jumped to send the enemy down to earth with one powerful punch from above.

“Silver Wind.” The opponent emotionlessly commanded.

Beautifly, upon shrouded by the dark blue aura, flapped its wings to gather the winds of silver to disrupt Blaziken’s mid-air movement. Blaziken, upon assessing the incoming threat, had to put its flaming hands on top of its head and, like a jet, tearing through the winds.

Blaziken was now on top of Beautifly. Just mere seconds before the chicken Pokemon’s fists made contact with the butterfly Pokemon, Beautifly dodged the attack just inches away from the actual fists. And after dodging, Beautifly danced gracefully in the air as though it was performing.

Blaziken landed safetly on the ground and looked up to face Beautifly.

Serena was dazzled upon seeing Beautifly dance gracefully, and falling, sparkling particles showered the ground below it.

“Is it… Could it possibly…?” Ash thought once more upon analyzing his own assumption. Though he didn’t achieve anything from doing so, he waited patiently for more information on the battle.

“Aerial Ace.” The opponent commanded.

Beautifly, upon hearing the command, suddenly dove down towards Blaziken below, tearing through the air to up its speed. A line of light can be seen behind the butterfly Pokemon.

“Counter it with Sky Uppercut!” Serena commanded just in time.

Blaziken tucked, balled its right hand into a hard fist, and jumped straight towards the diving Beautifly with power.

Both attacks collided, and a circular shockwave was seen expanding outwards between the attacks. Both attacks were evenly matched, canceling each other out. But in the midst of the shock,

“Psychic.” The opponent commanded.

Beautifly’s eyes glowed a bright blue, and the outlines of Blaziken glowed a bright blue as well. Its movements are now in control of the opponent. The situation seems to be
worse as Blaziken was still in mid-air.

“Blaziken, try to move your way out!” Serena said.

“Blaziken Blaze…” “It’s no use, Girl. I can’t move…” Blaziken said.

“Slam it to the ground.” The opponent commanded.

Beautifly had full control over Blaziken’s body, and did what it was commanded to do. Beautifly’s eyes glowed a brighter blue, and Blaziken suddenly dove down head-first
towards the ground below. With no way out, Blaziken braced for impact.

Blaziken’s head crashed to the ground first before the whole body, creating a wide crater upon impact with the ground.

“Blaziken! Are you alright?!” Serena asked in concern.

“Blaziken blaze… Blaziken…” “I’m… I’m fine… Don’t worry…” Blaziken said, slowly getting up to its feet, and shook its head upon doing so. Beautifly flew around gracefully around the battlefield, ready for the second phase of the battle.

“What should I do? I don’t even know its moves.” Serena said to herself. Blaziken heard the loud mumble from afar.

“Blaziken blaziken blaze blaziken.” “Don’t worry girl. I got an idea.” Blaziken said, and proceeded to execute its own plan without command from its temporary trainer.

“W-wait!” Serena said in protest, which was ignored by the chicked Pokemon.

Blaziken jumped very high, seemingly touching the heavens from the ground’s perspective, and dove down, engulfed in intense flame.

“Fl-Flare Blitz!” Serena exclaimed.

Blaziken’s altitude was dropping at a fast pace as it dives towards the earth below. But through careful analysis, it obvious wasn’t targeting Beautifly.

“Hah! Meeting your doom on your own?! How fitting for you.” Xerosic said from the side.

“Blaziken!” “That’s what you think!” Blaziken said.

Blaziken dove down as if it was a large meteor heading towards earth. As Blaziken crashed down to the ground, a large explosion follows up and the whole battlefield had been destroyed. Several stones, rocks, and even boulders were flying in the air from the strong impact and each were also engulfed in flames. Blaziken was seen from the center, kneeling one leg, and seems to be injured. Serena, Pikachu, and Mawile had to run for cover by running away and diving down, covering their heads. The masked trainer, Xerosic, and his Malamar stayed in their current position, as if the stone’s trajectory had already been calculated.

But then, as Serena saw what had happen to Beautifly, it was struggling flying in the air with so many stones and rocks flying. It had to dodge almost every one of them to avoid getting hit. After all, it’s weak against rock and fire since the stones were on fire. Mawile protected Serena from the falling stones and rocks by using Fairy Wind.

“I know! You had stones and rocks fly and render Beautifly’s flying ability useless! Way to go!” Serena exclaimed once knowing Blaziken’s plan all along, and commanded once more, “Use Fire Punch on the stones towards Beautifly!”

Blaziken punched every stone near it towards the butterfly Pokemon with fiery fists and also shrouding each stone with fire.

“Psychic.” The opponent commanded.

Once it saw the incoming stones, Beautifly had its eyes glowing bright blue, signifying its control over the flaming stones.

“Jump and use Flare Blitz!” Serena commanded.

Blaziken jumped towards the butterfly Pokemon with a flaming body, but Beautifly was smart enough to know what to do next. Each stone it had control over was sent flying towards Blaziken in attempt stop its attack. Each stone hit Blaziken, slowing down its velocity, and possibly its expected impact.
Blaziken was inches away from Beautifly before its velocity shrank into zero, much to Serena’s dismay.

“Aerial Ace, continuously.” The opponent commanded.

Beautifly began flying around Blaziken with speed, and with each turn, Beautifly would make its way towards Blaziken with speed, hitting the target.

“Blaziken!” Serena shouted in great concern.

After a short moment, a sphere of wind was seen around both Pokemon. In the center is Blaziken, enduring each and every Aerial Ace as much as possible.

Thinking, Serena had no idea what to do next. It seems so impossible for Blaziken to break free from the barrage of attacks in its current state. Every second, Blaziken’s strength is weakening, nearing its fainted state.

The circular gust of wind was slowly descending to the ground, and from there it stopped. Beautifly was seen flying away and once again danced gracefully in the air, while Blaziken was seen lying on the ground, trying to get up to its fee to no avail. The last thing Blaziken saw was Xerosic.

“Blaze…” “I’ll…” Blaziken mumbled before finally fainting, thudding its head softly on the ground.

“Blaziken is unable to battle!” Xerosic announced, and smirked softly.

“Blaziken…” Serena said softly, “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to command you properly…” Serena added before returning the fainted Pokemon back to its respective Pokeball.

“Last Pokemon. Make your choice.” Xerosic said.

Serena had thought about calling out her Gardevoir, until,

“Mawile.” “I’m going last.” Mawile said.

“Huh?” Serena said, stopping her hand from getting Gardevoir’s Pokeball.

“Mawile maw mawile. Mawile mawile mawile!” “I think I should go last. I have the biggest possible advantage compared to your other Pokemon. Besides, I can Mega Evolve!” Mawile said.

“I guess you’re right. I’m putting my faith in you. You ready?” Serena said.

“Mawile!” “Always!” Mawile said, as it entered the battlefield to face the weakened Beautifly.

“Begin!” Xerosic called the match to continue.

“Psychic.” The opponent commanded first.

Beautifly’s eyes glowed a bright blue, but was caught off-guard by a fast Mawile beside it.

“W-what?” Xerosic said in surprise. It hadn’t seen a fast Mawile before. He didn’t even see its movements when nearing his subject’s Pokemon.

“Iron Head!” Serena commanded.

Mawile’s head turned steel, and smashed it on Beautifly, sending it crashing to the ground below. Beautifly managed to control its movement and flew above the ground instead.

“Silver Wind.” The opponent commanded.

Beautifly flapped its wings and gathered another wind of silver and enveloping it around Mawile.

“Use Fairy Wind to counter it!” Serena commanded.

Mawile twisted itself in mid-air and created a pinkish wind around it to counter Beautifly’s attack. Both attacks canceled each other out moments later.

“Moonblast!” Serena commanded.

After spinning, Mawile created a moonlight sphere and hurled it towards Beautifly. And finally, it hit the target. The butterfly Pokemon was seen crashing down towards the ground and meeting it with a loud thud. Its mask was cracked and eventually disintegrated, revealing swirling eyes, signifying its fainted state.

“It was to be expected, but Beautifly is unable to battle!” Xerosic called the match.

“Way to go, Mawile!” Serena cheered. The opponent returned his Pokemon back to its Pokeball.

“Come and get some!” Mawile taunted the opponent.

“Grr. Last Pokemon, Subject!” Xerosic said in slight anger.

On the other side of the battlefield, the black-suited trainer throws a Pokeball in the air. The ball opened, and bright lights escape the ball, to which it then materialized as a masked Venusaur. As usual, when the Pokemon wears that kind of mask, it powers up its moves and potentials by shrouding the holder with a dark blue aura. Venusaur stands firmly on the ground eyeing Mawile with a deadly glare.

“Venusaur? Wait… this seems familiar… This roster…” Ash said from the sidelines. Pikachu saw Ash’s confused expression, and had a worried look on the rodent’s face, and looked on the Venusaur.

“This team… Where did I see this from?... Argh I don’t’ remember! But it’s so familiar!” Ash said, gripping onto the bars of the cage tighter from frustration. The bars were slowly
closing in on Ash, signifying that Serena should hurry and defeat these two enemies.

“Begin!” Xerosic called the battle to start one last time.

“Use Fairy Wind!” Serena commanded.

Mawile span around in circle in rapid speed. While doing so, it stirs up fairy winds and surrounds the eye of the storm. Mawile then launched the hurricane onto the enemy ahead.

“Petal Dance.” The opponent commanded

Venusaur created pink, sharp petals. It span these petals individually for massive piercing, and sent it towards the hurricane to stop it while piercing through it.

“Dodge it and use Fairy Wind once more!” Serena commanded again.

Mawile dodge the attack to the right created another hurricane of fairy wind, but this time was much faster to do so, and hurled the hurricane towards the opponent. Venusaur took the hit with minimum damage.

“Great job, Mawile!” Serena cheered. Mawile gave a thumbs up.

“Sludge Bomb.” The opponent commanded. Xerosic was rendered disappointed upon hearing the command.

“Counter it with Iron Head!” Serena commanded.

Venusaur opened its large flower on its back, and came out a purple, poisonous sludge onto the enemy. But from wearing the mask, it covers the entire battlefield with poison.
Mawile used its head as a shield and ran towards the opponent. The steel-like head was rendering the sludge ineffective since Steel-types are immune against Poison-types.

“Damn subject, doesn’t know obvious Pokemon typing!” Xerosic said in dismay.

Moments later, Mawile makes a direct impact on Venusaur, to which the latter winced in pain a little. Venusaur pushed Mawile away from it. The sludge that covers the battlefield subsided.

“Double edge.” The opponent commanded once more.

Venusaur began running fast towards the opponent, seemingly risking its life just to damage the opponent. It finally made contact with Mawile, and the latter was pushed a few meters away from the original position, making it flinched. Venusaur took recoil damage from the attack.

“Vine Whip, and slam it down to the ground.” The opponent commanded.

Venusaur’s vines went out of its back, and grabbed Mawile’s feet. The opponent immediately raised Mawile in the air, and began descending the latter down to the ground in a very fast speed.

“Use Iron Head!” Serena shouted.

Mawile then turned its upper head into steel once more, bracing for impact with the ground below. Venusaur crashed its opponent head-first on the ground, and was surprised that it was completely unharmed due to its steel head.

“Use Moonblast!” Serena commanded.

Mawile created a sphere of moon light and hurled it towards the opponent while its head was still on the ground. The sphere pushed Venusaur definite meters away from Mawile upon impact.

“Ugh. This is going nowhere. Subject! Use that now!” Xerosic said to the trainer in a black suit.

“Synthesis.” The black-suited trainer commanded.

Venusaur glowed a bright green, recovering its injuries and bringing its lost health back. It then did an offensive stance, readying itself for the upcoming event.

Its trainer threw a small, glowing object to its Pokemon which the Pokemon caught in time.

“Mega Evolve.” The opponent said, bringing out a Key Stone. Ash and Serena gasp in shock.

“What!” Ash and Serena said at the same time.

The two stones, the Mega Stone and the Key Stone, connected with each other through two bright lights, and the Pokemon begin to enter the phase of Mega Evolving. Venusaur was seen glowing very bright, while changing its shape a little. After the light has subsided, it was seen with a much larger flower on its back, and roared with power, making the earth shake from the sound.

Mawile looked onto Serena, and Serena back onto Mawile. Both nodded in the affirmative. They know it’s time to Mega Evolve as well.

“Mawile. Mega Evolve!” Serena shouted, raising her Key Stone high up in the air.

Similar events happened between these two. Mawile went through the same phase of Mega Evolving, changing its shape dramatically. Light subsided, and was shown with two jaws protruding from the back of its head. Mawile made a backward stance against the opponent, showing intimidating jaws that seems to be controlled individually by Mawile.
Tension seems to be getting into Serena since this is her very first battle in which both opposing Pokemon has Mega Evolved. Now she has to be careful about the situation at hand regardless of the type-advantage.

On the sidelines, Ash was seen surprised in the sight of Mega Venusaur since he had not seen Venusaur in its Mega Evolved state until now and how Serena was able to handle Mega Evolution. Pikachu expresses the same thing.

“Looks like you’re one step ahead of me… I’m proud” Ash thought. Pikachu then looked onto its trainer with a confused look, and already knows how the scene in front of them
affects Ash directly.

“You know that I don’t use Mega Evolution, right Pikachu?” Ash said.

“Pikachu pika pika. Pikachu Pikachu pika pika” “Of course I do. You always say to your Pokemon that Mega Evolution is just an excuse for making Pokemon stronger.”

“Right. And where am I now? I’m the number one trainer in the world, and I don’t even use Mega Evolution. But seeing Serena handling things like this makes me want to do it as well.” Ash said.

“Pikachu.” “I see.” Pikachu replied.

“I’m going to pay attention to it, to see and realize the extent of Mega Evolution in this kind of situation. And maybe, just maybe, this might change my view about Mega Evolution once again.” Ash said, turning his attention back to the battle.

The second phase of battle begins. Both Pokemon are in their Mega Evolved state, and both have amplified their power and potential. Serena makes the first move.

“Use Moonblast!” Serena commanded.

Mega Mawile created a larger sphere of moonlight. This time, a quiet heartbeat can be heard from the sphere. Mega Mawile hurled the sphere towards the opponent.

“Vine Whip.” The opponent emotionlessly commanded.

Mega Venusaur had its vines out to whip the sphere into two halves, which it did moments later. The two halves of the sphere missed the target, and instead hit two standing
trees behind.

“Use Fairy Wind to send it flying!” Serena commanded.

Mega Mawile span around, generating another hurricane of fairy wind, and hurled it towards the opponent. The hurricane surrounds Venusaur, and surprisingly, it was able to
lift Venusaur up in the air several meters above the ground.

“Use Petal Dance to your back, and use Double Edge.” The opponent emotionlessly commanded for a counterattack.

Mega Venusaur launched several petals to the back, to which it pushed Venusaur to move towards Mawile. It then tucked its feet, tearing through the air resistance and just crashing down faster for its next attack on Mawile.

“Use Fairy Wind to stop it!” Serena commanded.

Mega Mawile hurled another fairy wind hurricane. The speed of the wind was enough to stop Venusaur from falling faster.

“Use Iron Head to make it fly!” Serena commanded.

Mega Mawile’s head turned to hard steel once again, and launched itself to hit Mega Venusaur’s stomach, to which the latter winced in pain. Mega Venusaur, despite its heavy
weight, was sent flying. Venusaur crashed onto the ground, but immediately went up to its feet again to continue battling.

“Synthesis.” The opponent commanded.

“Oh no you don’t! Mawile, use Moonblast to stop it from recovering!” Serena countered.

Before Mega Venusaur was shrouded with green relaxing aura, Mawile hurled a large sphere of moonlight onto it and it caused a large explosion.

After the smoke cleared, Venusaur was seen lying on the ground with swirling eyes, fainted. Seconds later, it was changed back to normal from its Mega Evolution state. Xerosic gritted his teeth in anger and disappointment.

“How can a Mega Venusaur wearing an amplifier mask be defeated by a Mega Mawile? This is illogical!” Xerosic thought.

“W-We did it, Mawile! We won!” Serena cheered, and came running towards her Mega Evolved Pokemon to hug it.

“Mawile, mawile!” “We won, we won!” Mawile said, hugging its trainer.

“Now, now girl. Let’s not celebrate early. You still have to battle me.” Xerosic said, walking towards the opposite side of the battlefield where his subject resides.

“Serena, you should be careful about him. There’s no telling when he’s going to have the adva-“ Ash said, until a metal sound was heard from his surrounding, and froze on the
spot.

Turning his head to the right, he saw a yellow, humanoid creature, extending its hands diagonally downwards as though it had done a Cross Chop. Moments later, the cage was
broken, and Ash was now free of the time-ticking death.

“What?!” Xerosic gasped in shock. Serena and Mawile saw the event, and was quietly watching it with happiness. It was a moment of great relief for Serena, as the requirement to defeat Xerosic suddenly disappeared.

“Electivire? That means…” Ash mumbled, until,

“Ash!” A familiar voice was heard afar. From far right, Clemont and his dad was seen running towards Ash.

“Ash! Are you alright?” Clemont asked in Ash’s aid. Serena and Mawile ran back to Ash and Clemont.

“I’m alright thanks to you.” Ash said, standing up straight.

“Glad to see you two finally caught the criminal.” Clemont said while facing the enemy. Meyer, his dad, looked at Xerosic in the eye with a death glare. Electricity can be seen between the eyes of these two men.

“Meyer… Nice to see you again…” Xerosic said in a sinister voice. His hands are balled up into fists.

“Xerosic… Now that I have found you again, I must defeat you once and for all!” Meyer said. “Go, Ampharos!” Meyer called, throwing a Pokeball. Beam of lights escaped the ball and materialized into an Ampharos.

“Use Thunderbolt!” Meyer commanded.

Ampharos, upon release, hurled a line of lighting towards Xerosic, only for his Malamar to step in and stop it using Psychic. The lighting stopped in mid-air, and disintegrated moments later.

“Grr… That damned Malamar…” Meyer gritted his teeth in anger.

“I won’t leave without that girl! I will never-” Xerosic said, until he saw his subject’s helmet had a small crack. And upon looking below he saw a small metal bar that was supposed to be supporting the cage Ash was in. And had to simulate the situation.

Earlier before, as Electivire Cross Chopped the cage, one fragment of it had uneven force from each side, and was headed towards the black-suited trainer like a bullet. The steel bar hit the head of Xerosic’s subject, cracking the helmet in the process.

Back in the current time, the subject’s helmet finally breaks into pieces, and revealing his face for the first time, or is it?

All people in the area saw what has happened, and looked on to see the face of the culprit. Clemont had a shocked expression. He had finally found what he was looking for these past days. Serena, Mawile, and Pikachu had shocked expressions as well. Meyer watched the scene with a blank face.

Of all the people in the area, Ash had been the most affected person, as he saw the embodiment of the other piece of the ribbon. Ash’s eyes was wide open in shock.

As they saw the face of the culprit, they saw what it seems to be May’s face. She had her eyes closed, and seconds later, gravity seems to pull her towards the earth, and a thud was heard.

“M-May!!” Ash shouted, and came running towards her aid. Meyer, Clemont, Serena, and the Pokemon watched the scene.

Ash’s assumptions earlier were correct. It seems that he had been thinking about her all along has he thought about the roster Serena’s opponent used, as well as the Blaziken used in the battle between them. He had mixed emotions this time. He didn’t know what he was feeling that time as he saw May. But regardless, she needs his help.

“Malamar, stop him!” Xerosic commanded.

Malamar came in front of Ash and used Psychic to render him immobile.

“D-damn you… How could you… do that to… my friend?” Ash said in anger. Serena heard him, and was confused. ‘How did he know May?’ was all in her mind.

“Heh. Watch as I receive my prize… Malamar, use Psychic on all of them!” Xerosic commanded.

Malamar’s eyes turned into a very bright blue, and all of the opposing beings were now being control.

“I… I can’t move!” Meyer said, struggling to move.

“Me either…” Clemont said, attempting to move as well. All other Pokemon tried to break free, to no luck.

“Ash…” Serena said, trying to break free from the bind. To her dismay, she was sent to Xerosic’s side. She absolutely have no control over her own body.

“Ash… Everyone… Save… Me…” Serena said weakly.

“Serena!” Ash shouted.

“Hah! Even the master himself couldn’t save his beloved! How unfortunate for you!” Xerosic said, and turned to face May’s body.

“I should thank you for cooperating with me, young lad.” Xerosic said, and turned his attention towards Ash. Ash’s been glaring at Xerosic with eyes that seems to want
revenge.

“I shall take my leave. Don’t worry, we’ll meet each other again. Malamar, Teleport!” Xerosic said and commanded.

Xerosic, Serena, and Malamar glowed a bright light, but before disappearing, Malamar had to make everyone unconscious so it had flashed a bright light that seems to drain
there consciousness, and finally disappeared.

“Serena…” Ash said weakly before being rendered unconscious, extending his hand to where Serena was previously at. Meyer, Clemont, and other Pokemon fell to the ground in a thud.

Ash’s eyes were slowly closing, as he eyes May eye to eye, facing each other from a distance.

“May…” Ash said as his final words before going into a deep slumber.

Lumious City, the largest city on earth, had become one of the most eventful disasters in history. One mere trainer and her Blaziken did all the work alone, and had created mass destruction in the city. The place was deserted, no person would ever live there for years. A seemingly unfair turn of events was a perfect ending for this day, as the light of tomorrow awaits Ash, Clemont, Meyer, and May.

Everything seems to be hopeless for Serena, as she is now being held captive by Xerosic himself, who had backed Ash and his companions before against the wall. What awaits Serena is up to him.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.​

Chapter 10 coming right up...

 

[Midnightmoon6o2]

Haha, knew it was May. Though try to work on describing the scenes and emotions of the characters as a way to get through the chapter and not relaying on mainly dialogue. Like most of your battles each new line is mainly dialogue-based and the description of the attacks are mainly one-liners. Maybe you could mix it up a bit and write what they do before talking as it gives your style more variety when reading.

Like this, As the face of the culprit soon printed into their minds Ash's eyes widen in shock "M-May!" He shouted as he ran to her aid as the others watched from where they were. "May!"

Anyway your battling writing is pretty good but it can get better. Battles aren't the easiest to write but read some other stories out there can really help you out.