Pokemon Master Emergence

by amvanras

Due to his illustrious milestones, Ash Ketchum enters a high-level Pokemon Battle Tournament competing against past rivals. While he competes, the evil organization Team Rocket targets Ash and a brand new Pokemon on his team. Will Ash win the tournament, stop Team Rocket, and understand love? Takes place after Pokemon Master Premises (see my bio page). Note: I do not own Pokemon.

4. Meet and Greet

June 3, 2012

After a month of traveling all over Kanto, Ash, Serena, Clemont, Bonnie, Pikachu, Chupi, and Dedenne have finally arrived at the Indigo Plateau, site of the 2012 PWT-Aces Cup. While they walked, Serena stares adoringly at Ash as she remembers the conversation she and Delia had.

**Flashback to May 3, 2012 **

Delia watched as Serena carefully nursed Ash's injuries from the earlier fight with Team Rocket while Ash slept. Ash's friends were back with Professor Oak in his lab helping with cleaning up the picnic and taking care of the Pokemon. Serena finished, and she and Chupi quietly left Ash to rest while Pikachu stayed back to keep him company. Chu and Chupi went downstairs to the living room to talk together.

Serena then said this, "Oh hi Mrs. Ketchum."

Delia then said this, "Serena, please call me Delia. I really admire your diligence in taking care of Ash. Other than myself, I've never seen anyone else go this far." Serena smiled and blushed.

Serena then said this, "Really? I just want to make sure that he's okay. He has helped me in so many ways that I just have to be there for him when he has done the same for me. I know that Ash has defeated crooks like Team Rocket before several times. It's just that I really worry for him if he's in danger."

Delia then said this, "So I take it that Ash is more than just a friend for you?" Serena gasped and blushed even further.

Serena then said this, "How can you tell?"

Delia then said this, "It's a motherly instinct. I wouldn't be surprised if your mother also asked you the same thing."

Serena then said this, "Yes she did. I just didn't expect to be asked at this time. I'm sorry." Delia places her hand on Serena's shoulder warmly.

Delia then said this, "There's no need to apologize. I am glad that you and Ash have met at that Summer Camp all those years ago. I just knew that there is something special between the two of you, and that special thing is love and care."

Serena then said this, "R-really Delia? You mean it?"

Delia then said this, "Yes Serena. You have earned my blessings. I would also love to speak with your mother. After all I want to get myself acquainted with my future daughter-in-law's family." Serena blushed and had tears of happiness in her eyes. She hugged Delia like she would embrace her own mother Grace. Delia returned the embrace.

Serena then said this, "Delia, that really means a lot to me. I'll be happy to let my mother know. I just hope that Ash feels the same as I feel for him." Delia winked.

Delia then said this, "Don't worry. It will happen. I just know it. Just have faith and always continue to do what you do best. I'm sure Ash will notice. Now why don't we make a call to your mother? I'm sure she wants to know that your boyfriend has escorted you, Bonnie, Alexa, and Clemont safely all this way to Pallet Town." Delia giggled as Serena smiled and blushed. So Serena and Delia went to the videophone and dialed her house in Vaniville Town. Soon Grace's face shows up on the screen, and she smiles seeing Serena after a while.

Grace then said this, "Serena! My dear, how are you?"

Serena then said this, "Hi mom! I'm doing great. Ash, Bonnie, Clemont, Alexa, and I have arrived in Pallet Town, and we're in Ash's house now. The homecoming party there was awesome, and I got to meet a lot of his traveling companions from all over the years. Professor Oak still remembers me."

Grace then said this, "Wonderful. I'm happy for you. Is Ash around?"

Serena then said this, "He's taking a nap. It has been quite a long day."

Grace then said this, "That's understandable. Say, are you Ash's mother?" Delia came forward and smiled warmly.

Delia then said this, "Yes, I'm Delia Ketchum. It's a pleasure meeting the mother of such a lovely woman like Serena." Serena blushes and smiles.

Grace then said this, "I'm Grace Yvonne. I'm fortunate to meet you. Ash is such a fine, responsible, and handsome young man. Serena dear, would it be okay if Delia and I talk for a bit?"

Serena then said this, "Sure. See you later. Love you!"

Grace then said this, "Love you too sweety!" Delia and Grace continued talking while Serena joined Chu and Chupi who cuddled with her.

**End Flashback to May 3, 2012 **

Ash then said this, "Over there is the Indigo Plateau!"

Serena then said this, "Wow, what a place!"

Bonnie then said this, "Dedenne look! That's Indigo Plateau!" Dedenne perked up to take in the scenery.

Clemont then said this, "That's where you won the Kanto League Championship Tournament way back then."

Ash then said this, "Yeah, this place sure brings back a lot of memories." At a distance, Ash and his companions see Max and May.

Ash then said this, "May, Max, over here!" Both May and Max eagerly ran up to Ash.

Max then said this, "Hey everyone! Ash, you ready for this?"

Ash then said this, "You bet we are, right Pikachu?" Pikachu squealed in agreement and pumped his fist high.

May then said this, "Max has been training so hard for this tournament. I guess your determination has lit the fire in him Ash." May said all of that with a blush.

Ash then said this, "Really? I look forward to battling him. Say, are your parents coming to cheer you on?"

Max then said this, "They're watching the tournament back home in Petalburg City while they're taking care of the gym."

May then said this, "Look over there! Misty and Brock are here!" Misty and Brock gladly came over to the growing group of Ash's friends.

Misty then said this, "Hey everyone. Long time no see." Ash noticed that Brock was carrying more stuff in a bag and had a big blush on his face normally when he's flirting with pretty girls.

Ash then said this, "Hey Brock you are quite happy. What's with the extra stuff?"

Brock then said this, "I have perhaps the best news in weeks, but I'll wait once everyone comes here." Ash nodded. Then he sees Dawn, Iris, and Cilan running up to the group.

Dawn then said this, "Ash, everyone! We made it!"

Iris then said this, "So, is that the entire group?"

Cilan then said this, "It's sure does look like it. Looks like we all made it!"

Ash then said this, "Professor Oak, Tracey, and Mom are staying back in Pallet Town. Alexa went back to Kalos and plans to meet us during the later stages of the PWT-Aces Cup, and Gary went back to Sinnoh due to his research project with Professor Rowan."

Dawn then said this, "Yeah, I saw Gary few days back while I passed through Sandgem Town. He and Professor Rowan wish you good luck Ash."

Ash then said this, "Great! So let's get going unless uh Brock you said you have something really cool you wanted to tell us."

Brock then said this, "Oh yeah Ash, but to do that, we need to go to a Pokemon Center." Ash and his friends entered Indigo Plateau which was crowded with competing trainers, media reporters, and Pokemon battle fans from around the world.

Moments later, Ash and his big group of friends entered a Pokemon Center in Indigo Plateau. The first person they all saw is Nurse Joy.

Nurse Joy then said this, "Welcome to Indigo Plateau and welcome to the Pokemon Center. Oh my! Pokemon Doctor Brock Slate! It's a pleasure to have you here managing the area's Pokemon Centers. With your leadership, I believe that we will successfully treat all the participants in the PWT-Aces Cup."

Brock then said this, "My pleasure Nurse Joy. I look forward to being of any help." Ash and his friends were surprised and happy for Brock.

Dawn then said this, "You're living your dream of being a professional Pokemon Doctor. You get to help Pokemon from all over the world!" Everyone cheered for Brock.

Brock then said this, "Yeah thank you. I applied for the job with the Pokemon League. My credentials probably impressed the evaluators, so they selected me over hundreds of other qualified applicants. But that's not just the only dream I'm going to live!" Brock then had hearts in his eyes.

Brock then said this, "I get to meet all the lovely Nurse Joys from all over the world starting with you!" He kneeled in front of Nurse Joy causing her to gasp and blush.

May then said this, "Oh, I forgot about that."

Brock then said this, "Perhaps this was destiny that chose me to take the path of the Pokemon Doctor and help Pokemon and meet you. With you by my side, we will cure all the Pokemon and find our road to love – AHAAAH! OOH! OWWW!" Croagunk popped out and gave Brock a Poison Jab causing him to fall over. Then Croakgunk pulled Brock away.

Max then said this, "Hey that's my job! Wait!"

Misty then said this, "Does Brock ever learn?"

Brock then said this, "Croagunk…is…my…ailment." Croagunk pulled Brock away from Nurse Joy which earned chuckles and sweat-drops from Ash and his friends.

Ash then said this, "Wow even that never gets old. Okay Max, we need to get registered." Max nodded.

Nurse Joy then said this, "I'll be happy to register you both for the PWT-Aces Cup!" First Max got registered and was given a guidebook, a room, and a key. Then it was Ash's turn.

Nurse Joy then said this, "Well Ash, you're going to make quite the buzz in the tournament if you know what I mean besides you just entering. You're the favorite to win, but there will be other trainers eager to battle you and tons of fans wanting to meet you!"

Ash then said this, "I rather prefer the former than the latter Nurse Joy. I didn't mind early on, but it's starting to get old."

Nurse Joy then said this, "I'm not surprised by that Ash. In fact, any well known trainer would say the same thing. It's the life of a celebrity. Okay, you're all set to go. Here's your guidebook, room, and key for you and your friends. Enjoy and best of luck!" Ash thanked Nurse Joy, and he and his friends exited the Pokemon Center to look for their trainer lodges.

Ash then said this, "Okay, let's settle down in our lodges and take in the sights."

Brock then said this, "Good idea, but I'll have to visit the other Pokemon Centers in the area." Misty smiled slyly.

Misty then said this, "Oh c'mon Brock. You know it's an excuse to see all the Nurse Joys." Everyone laughed as even Croagunk had his Poison Jab ready on the go for Brock.

Brock then said this, "Haha very funny, but that's part of my duty as the chief Pokemon Doctor for this tournament."

Clemont then said this, "If your job keeps you busy, Cilan and I can handle cooking."

Brock then said this, "Great idea. I'm sure that I can squeeze in some free time. Hopefully there's nothing too serious during this tournament which will last for almost an entire month."

Max then said this, "Whoa, an entire month?"

Cilan then said this, "Yes, Max, this tournament is spread out since all matches will involve trainers using six Pokemon."

Max then said this, "Really, that means all of the battles are full battles."

Ash then said this, "The good news is that we can switch around our Pokemon between matches, so we can rest our Pokemon from time to time."

Max then said this, "That's great! I was worried about my Pokemon's health. So then what does the tournament schedule look like?"

Brock then said this, "It says here that the first stage is Group play. This tournament will have 80 competitors which will be divided into 8 groups of 10 trainers, and all the trainers in a group will battle each other individually in a smaller round-robin tournament in full single battles using six Pokemon. A win earns you three points, a tie earns you a point, and a loss earns you zero points. These round robin tournaments are held in the four smaller stadiums; and these round-robin tournaments spread out over the first three weeks to give trainers and Pokemon plenty of rest and the spectators chances to see all trainers battle. So you two can expect 3 to 4 matches per week. In each of the 8 groups, the trainer with the highest number of points will move on to the knockout stage. In the case of ties, there are tiebreaker procedures which are quite complicated so let's just move on."

Max then said this, "Whoa Brock, slow down."

Brock then said this, "So next is the knockout stage featuring the Top 8 Pokemon Trainers in the tournament, and all the matches take place in the main stadium. The Top 8 matchups are determined automatically. All matches during the knockout stage during the Quarter-Finals and the Semi-Finals are double battles."

Max then said this, "That means I need six Pokemon and I have to command two Pokemon simultaneously."

Brock then said this, "Then the finalists will face each other in the Final Round matchup which involves triple battles."

Ash then said this, "Wow, just hearing this just psychs me up so much!"

Max then said this, "I know what you mean Ash!" Suddenly, they see two familiar trainers colliding into each other. One of them has blonde hair, wearing brown pants, an orange-striped shirt with orange eyes. The other trainer has dark brown spiky hair, wears a head band, some shorts and a green t-shirt. His Lucario came up and looked disapprovingly at his trainer wondering if he'll ever learn to be alert and careful.

Ash then said this, "Whoa, it's Barry and Cameron."

Barry then said this, "Grrr! Why don't you watch where you're going!? I'm gonna have to fine you for this! Pay up in 10 seconds! 9! 8! 7! 6! 5! C'mon pay up already!"

Cameron then said this, "Geez what are you? A Rampardos!"

Barry then said this, "THAT DOES IT! I CHALLENGE YOU TO A BATTLE! YOU'RE MESSING WITH THE BARRY PEARL FROM TWINLEAF TOWN WHO ROCKED BOTH THE SINNOH LEAGUE AND JOHTO LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS!"

Cameron then said this, "YOU'RE GONNA REGRET CHALLENGING ME AS I'M CAMERON, THE RECENT WINNER OF THE KANTO LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT!" Both Barry and Cameron grasped their Pokeballs and were about to battle.

Ash then said this, "Barry and Cameron!" The two perked up and smiled seeing Ash and his friends.

Barry then said this, "Hey, it's Ash! Good to see ya!"

Ash then said this, "Yeah, nice job winning both Sinnoh and Johto Leagues Barry. Cameron, nice job winning the Kanto League!"

Cameron then said this, "Uh wait, how did you know all that?" This caused everyone to fall down anime style.

Iris then said this, "Easy, we heard you from all the way at the Pokemon Center."

Cameron then said this, "The Pokemon Center?"

Barry then said this, "Wait, I need to go there and register for the PWT-Aces Cup!"

Cameron then said this, "Yeah, me too. Gotta rush!" Barry, Cameron and his Lucario left Ash and his friends in the dust.

Cilan then said this, "Boy, those two can surely spice things up here."

Ash then said this, "Let's go and find our lodges and settle there, and then we can meet them later. I bet there are more of my rivals from all over the years participating here too." After that was done, Ash and his friends went out and met up with Barry and Cameron from earlier.

Cameron then said this, "Hey Ash, Iris, and Cilan! And you all must be the rest of Ash's friends!"

Barry then said this, "Wow Ash, you got yourself a fanbase!"

Ash then said this, "Yeah, these are all my friends I've traveled with all over the years! Everyone, this is Barry who is one of my rivals from Sinnoh, and this is Cameron, another one of my rivals from Unova." Ash's friends, Barry, and Cameron all exchanged greetings.

Max then said this, "Barry, it's been a while!"

Barry then said this, "Yeah Max! I remember our battle in the Johto League finals few months ago which was one of the best battles yet!"

Cameron then said this, "So he's the one you beat! I'll like to challenge you Max! I hope you're better than this one opponent of mine in the Kanto League."

Max then said this, "I'm sure we will battle in the tournament. I'm already registered."

Cameron then said this, "Look forward to it!" Cameron and Max shook hands.

Ash then said this, "Cameron who was your opponent you were talking about in the Kanto League?"

Voice then said this, "That would be me." Another teenage boy comes. He has blonde wavy hair and wears black pants and an orange jacket.

Ash then said this, "Trip. Wait I thought the PWT-Aces Cup is just for the Pokemon League Championship Tournament winners."

Trip then said this, "Isn't it obvious that I'm just a spectator? I've heard about this tournament from Cameron who couldn't keep his big mouth shut. Plus I figured that you would show up."

Ash then said this, "Uh okay?" Ash's friends were whispering amongst themselves.

Serena then said this, "Who is this Trip person?"

Iris then said this, "He's a Pokemon Trainer from Nuvema Town in Unova. He for some reason calls Kanto 'the boonies' which often annoys Ash a lot."

Dawn then said this, "Yeah, I remember seeing him at the Junior Cup in Lacunosa Town. He seemed like a pain in the neck."

Cilan then said this, "Ash has beaten Trip in all of his battles with him, including the Junior Cup Finals as well as during the first round of the Unova League Championship Tournament. I wonder if Trip wants to battle Ash again."

Back at Ash and Trip who locked eyes.

Trip then said this, "So Ash, you want to battle one on one? You're a worthy opponent if you won all the 6 major regional Pokemon League Championship Tournaments and have tied with Unova Champion Master Alder during the Junior Cup Final exhibition match. Plus you have beaten me with your Pikachu that one time when Pikachu couldn't use electric attacks. Beating you is a major step for me unless you're gonna chicken out like all the trainers I've beaten who are from the boonies."

Serena then said this, "How dare you say that to Ash!?"

Trip then said this, "Oh, so Ash isn't the dense self he is and got himself a girlfriend." Serena visibly blushed.

Ash then said this, "Serena, I'll handle this. Fine Trip, I accept your challenge. This would be a nice warm up!" Moments later, Ash and Trip were at a practice battlefield. A crowd has gathered hearing that a battle involving Ash Ketchum would happen. Brock acted as a referee.

Brock then said this, "This one on one exhibition battle between Ash and Trip shall begin!"

Trip then said this, "Alright Serperior, battle time!" His Serperior came out, locked eyes with Pikachu and taunted him.

Ash then said this, "Pikachu, wanna take this battle?" Pikachu grinned and jumped forward with his cheeks sparking.

Serena then said this, "Go Ash go!" Serena, Misty, May, Dawn, Iris, and Bonnie all cheered for Ash. Chupi also vehemently supported Pikachu who gave her thumbs up that he got this.

Cameron then said this, "Ash will win this for sure!"

Barry then said this, "Ash, you better win or else I'm fining you!" The rest of the spectators cheered as they hoped for an exciting battle to preview the PWT-Aces Cup.

Brock then said this, "Battle begin!" Ash vs. Trip got underway!

Trip then said this, "Serperior, use Vine Whip!" Serperior lashed out his Vine Whip to ensnare Pikachu.

Ash then said this, "Pikachu, use Extreme Speed to dodge!" Pikachu skillfully dodged.

Trip then said this, "Serperior, use Leaf Storm!" Serperior fired a powerful vortex of glowing green leaves aimed for Pikachu.

Ash then said this, "Pikachu keep dodging!" "With a spin!" Pikachu dodged and spun in mid-air which got the crowd to emit 'oohs' and 'aahs'.

Trip then said this, "C'mon Serperior, use rapid fire Energy Ball!" Serperior fired multiple orbs of Grass-Type energy at Pikachu.

Ash then said this, "Pikachu, use Double Team and dodge!" Pikachu skillfully split himself into multiple copies causing Serperior to keep missing his mark.

Trip then said this, "GRR! Coward! Serperior, get in there and use Wrap!" Serperior homed in at Pikachu.

Ash then said this, "Coward am I?" "Pikachu, let's really give it to 'em!" Pikachu nodded.

Ash then said this, "Pikachu, use Extreme Volt Speed!" This caused a lot of confusion among all of his friends and spectators. Just what is that move?

Trip then said this, "What the? Serperior get out of there!" It was too late as Pikachu send Serperior flying up high with his combination of Extreme Speed and Volt Tackle.

Ash then said this, "Now, Extreme Speed upwards and let him have it with Iron Tail!" Pikachu soared faster and was above Serperior. Then Pikachu elongated his metallic coated Iron Tail and bashed Serperior several times. Serperior crashed on to the battlefield with swirls in his eyes.

Brock then said this, "Serperior is unable to battle! Pikachu wins which means the victory goes to Ash!" Everyone cheered. Ash's friends went up to congratulate Ash. Pikachu jumped on Ash's shoulder.

Serena then said this, "Ash you're amazing as always!" Chupi came over and nuzzled Pikachu much to his comfort.

Dawn then said this, "I see you have not forgotten your bag of tricks from Sinnoh!"

Ash then said this, "Oh don't worry. That's just the beginning. My Pokemon and I have been working on such moves the past month." Trip recalled Serperior.

Trip then said this, "Looks like I have a long way to go before I can match your level."

Ash then said this, "Well, it all starts with the basics." Trip grimaced hearing that statement since he has used that statement against Ash few other times.

Trip then said this, "Very well, you better win the PWT-Aces Cup. I would rather lose to a champion than to some wannabe. Later Ketchum." Trip walked away.

Ash then said this, "Some ego he has. Oh well, let's all have a look around." Ash's friends all nodded. Then a group of trainers Ash recognized all came up to him.

Ash then said this, "Wow. Ritchie, Virgil, Mandi, Macy, Rafe, Sid, Rebecca, Morrison, Tyson, Harrison, Jon Dickson, San Pei, Assunta, Lyra, Calem, Nico, and Chester! You all are competing too?!"

Ritchie then said this, "Yeah Ash we're all here competing in the PWT-Aces Cup! Word's out that you're here too, and we found you battling that trainer with the crowd going wild."

Ash then said this, "That's amazing! How did you all meet up?"

Harrison then said this, "Well, someone mentioned you, and then we all traded stories of how we ended up losing to you in many Pokemon battles at some point back then." Ash had a sweat-drop hearing that.

Serena then said this, "Wow. Ash has defeated many tough trainers over the years."

Ash then said this, "Uh that's one way to know someone, hehe!" Everyone chuckled.

Serena then said this, "Whoa I see a few faces I recognize, but Ash who are the others?" Brock, Misty, May, Max, Dawn, Cilan, Iris, Clemont, and Bonnie all walked up to the group of trainers Ash recognized.

Brock then said this, "Whoa, I recognize most of them. They're some of Ash's friends and rivals from his journeys from all over the world."

Ash then said this, "Yep! That's Ritchie, Mandi, and Assunta, and I met them during the Kanto League Championship Tournament I competed in way back then. That's Jon Dickson, Macy, and Harrison who I've competed with in the Johto League Championship Tournament. Over there is Rafe, Sid, and Rebecca I met in a tournament in the LaRousse City Battle Tower. That's Tyson and Morrison I met when competing in the Hoenn League Championship Tournament. That's Virgil, one of my many rivals in the Unova League Championship Tournament besides Trip and Cameron. He's also an Eevee Trainer and leads the Pokemon Rescue Squad. That's Lyra I met in Sinnoh who led the Johto Festival there while she's out challenging the Johto League which I bet she won! That's San Pei, a ninja master from Kalos. Those are Nico and Chester who I met at Kalos' Battle Chateau several times. Finally, that's Calem who is also from Vaniville Town like Serena."

Macy then said this, "It's good to see you Ash!" Macy blushed and was slightly infatuated with him that caused Serena to give her an odd stare.

Rafe then said this, "Nice to see you're doing well Ash."

Sid then said this, "Yeah what he said. Hey May!" May waved back hesitantly with a blush.

Rebecca then said this, "I can't wait to battle you again Ash!"

Ash then said this, "Sure! I can't wait either!"

Nico then said this, "Yo, right on the bonus yo!"

Chester then said this, "You rocked it Ash, yo yo!"

Serena then said this, "Oh great, Nico and Chester are at it again with all the rapping." This caused Nico and Chester to freeze up for a while.

Calem then said this, "Ash, you won last time, but this time will be different. Just wait 'till I put you in your place!" Everyone gave Calem strange looks.

Ash then said this, "Well then I look forward to seeing you try Calem, but don't get too comfy. So Lyra, how you and Khoury been?"

Lyra then said this, "I won the Johto League Championship Tournament the same year you won the Sinnoh League Championship Tournament Ash! Your spirit really got me fired up! Hey Khoury over here! Look who's here?" A boy of about 14 years of age with dark green curly hair with glasses came up.

Khoury then said this, "Ash, Brock, Dawn! It's been so long!"

Brock then said this, "I know! How's your training as a Breeder?"

Khoury then said this, "It's great. You know I've heard from Nurse Joy that you're a Pokemon Doctor and have taken up active duty during the PWT-Aces Cup. Would it be okay if I help with or observe your work?"

Brock then said this, "My pleasure. After all I am the supervisor so I'm more than happy to let you assist me."

Lyra then said this, "Ash, I remember watching the Sinnoh League Championship Tournament that year you competed. You were amazing that time especially with your Gible evolving straight to Garchomp during the Sinnoh League Final Round and winning!" Ash blushed out of modesty as everyone gave similar complements.

Voice then said this, "Yeah, I don't need a reminder of that!" Everyone turned around to see a teenage boy of about 17 years old with purple hair, wearing blue-purple cargo pants and a purple jacket.

Ash then said this, "Paul." "He is still the same as before. I don't know if he ever changed after the Sinnoh League or just doing the tough guy act! Guys, be on your guard." All of Ash's Pokemon heard that through their Aura Link.

Paul then said this, "Ash." Ash and Paul gave each other death glares. Paul's Electivire and Pikachu growled at each other adding fuel to this intense standoff.

Brock then said this, "Guys, I think we need to get out of their way." Everyone around agreed and watched worriedly. Then Paul's older brother Reggie came.

Reggie then said this, "Paul what are you doing? Oh there's Ash."

Serena then said this, "What's up with both of them?" Chupi looked worriedly as her crush Pikachu stares down a formidable opponent such as Electivire.

Dawn then said this, "That guy over there is Paul, Ash's fierce rival from Sinnoh. Whenever Ash and Paul ever meet, things often get tense between the two. They couldn't be more different if they tried. I don't know if Paul has changed for good this time."

Serena then said this, "You're saying that he's the one who abandoned his Chimchar that Ash trained and helped evolve all the way up to Infernape? That bastard!"

Barry then said this, "Yeah, I remember when all of that tension really exploded during the Sinnoh League Final round! It's like as if they battled each other personally."

Dawn then said this, "Yes." Soon a crowd formed wondering if Paul and Ash would battle. Then Officer Jenny came up.

Officer Jenny then said this, "Ok break it up! Save your energy for the battling you'll do in the tournament!"

Paul then said this, "So Mr. 6-time Pokemon League Winner, I'll see you in the PWT-Aces Cup. Just be sure you never lose because you're only going to lose to me." Ash gritted his teeth as Paul walked away with his Electivire trailing behind.

Serena then said this, "Ash? Earth to Ash! Are you okay?" Ash snapped out of his trance. Pikachu also snapped out of his stare down as Chupi tapped his shoulder.

Ash then said this, "Don't worry Serena I'm fine. It's just that I haven't seen Paul in a while ever since my journey in Sinnoh back then. Whenever he's around, I get psyched for battle. I guess that's how he is."

Reggie then said this, "Hey Ash. I guess Paul really expects to meet you in the finals of the Champion League Cup, but he'll have to go through you, me, and all of those who are competing."

Ash then said this, "Hey Reggie! Wait you're competing too? That's cool."

Serena then said this, "Ash, who is he?"

Ash then said this, "Serena, that's Paul's older brother Reggie a Pokemon Breeder and a strong trainer I met in Sinnoh. Reggie, meet Serena one of my traveling companions from Kalos."

Reggie then said this, "Pleasure to meet you Serena." Serena and Reggie shook hands.

Ash then said this, "So Paul is still determined to get even with me?"

Reggie then said this, "Pretty much! There's no stopping him."

Ritchie then said this, "I know what you're talking about. I defeated Paul in the Hoenn League Championship Tournament finals the year after Ash and I competed in Kanto. Then during the time you went to compete in the Hoenn League the following year, Paul and I met again in the Johto League Championship Tournament Finals where he got even with me."

Ash then said this, "Wow Ritchie, I didn't know that you two have a history as well. You see, Paul was actually one of my opponents I defeated during the Kanto League Championship Tournament we both competed in back then. I didn't remember until Reggie brought that up."

Ritchie then said this, "I'm amazed that the rivalry you and Paul share is much more intense than the rivalry Paul and I had back then, and your rivalry is still going strong since you beat him earler. He's quite determined to beat you if he stared at you like the way he did just now. If anything, I hope someone puts him in his place."

Ash then said this, "Well, I did see Paul get swept by both Cynthia the Sinnoh Champion Master and the Pyramid King Brandon on two separate occasions, but he still doesn't get it. Oh well, but we'll find out who wins!"

Ritchie then said this, "I think Sparky wants to say hi to Pikachu. I've never met all of your other traveling buddies besides Misty and Brock." Sparky and Pikachu greeted each other after a long time while Pikachu introduced Sparky to Chupi. Suddenly, a boy with dark green hair, wearing, brown shorts, a bright green shirt, and a pair of glasses sneaks behind Dawn who freaks out.

Dawn then said this, "AAAH! Conway!?" Everyone turned to their direction to see what's going on.

Ash then said this, "Oh look, that's Conway, another rival of mine from the Sinnoh League Championship Tournament I competed in."

Conway then said this, "Dawn it's so nice to see you in Kanto heh heh heh. By the way, the Opening Ceremony starts in half an hour in the Indigo Plateau's Main Stadium. Certainly you don't want to miss that do you?" Conway walked away towards the main stadium.

Serena then said this, "That Conway sure is creepy." All the girls nodded.

Ash then said this, "Creepy or not, he's competing which makes this tournament that much more exciting!"

Brock then said this, "Well, let's head over to the Indigo Plateau Stadium."

Later that evening, the Opening Ceremony of the PWT-Aces Cup got underway at the Indigo Plateau Main Stadium which was filled beyond capacity. Ash, Max, all of their rivals, and the competitors were standing at the stadium's battlefield. Brock, Misty, May, Dawn, Cilan, Iris, Clemont, Bonnie, and Serena were sitting among all the tens of thousands of spectators cheering madly for the tournament to officially begin. The Announcer starts speaking.

Announcer then said this, "Ladies and Gentlemen! Four years have passed and we welcome you to the 2012 Pokemon World Tournament-Aces Cup at the Indigo Plateau in Kanto! You all must be eager to see Pokemon battles at a high level! Well you came here at just the right time! Now, President Charles Goodshow of the Pokemon League will make his address! Take it away Mr. President!" Goodshow, an aged man in his late 60s comes up to the microphone while the crowd continues to cheer.

Goodshow then said this, "Greetings battle fans! You are all in for a treat as you will be seeing battling at a level close to that of an Elite Trainer as all of these competing Pokemon Trainers are Ace Trainers which means they all have won at least one of of the six major regional Pokemon League Championship Tournaments in Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, Unova, or Kalos in their entire careers. These trainers come from all over the world with diverse backgrounds and notable achievements, but there can only be one winner. The winner of the Pokemon World Tournament-Aces Cup will not only be recognized as one of the world's Elite Pokemon Trainers, but also he or she will be eligible to compete in the Pokemon Battle Master World Cup along with some of the world's powerful Pokemon Trainers. That tournament is always hosted at Aurora City every four years but two years after the PWT-Aces Cup! So, who will win the 2012 PWT-Aces Cup? We won't find out until we light the Stadium Torch! And now, leading the Torch Bearing is former World Champion Master and current Kanto Champion Master Lance Wataru who will say a few words before getting to the main event!" The spectators gave its loudest cheers of the night as Lance made his entrance and stood at the podium.

Lance then said this, "On behalf of Kanto, I humbly welcome you to the Indigo Plateau, and I am honored to lead the Torch Bearing for the 2012 PWT-Aces Cup!" More cheers followed.

Lance then said this, "I'm amazed seeing all the competitors standing before us at the battlefield now! I cannot wait to see what makes all of them great Pokemon Trainers, and I am eager to see who comes out on top. I look forward to compete with whoever wins the PWT-Aces Cup at the Pokemon Battle Master World Cup! So now let's light the Stadium Torch!" Lance took a torch from one of the torch bearers and lit the Stadium Torch.

Lance then said this, "I declare the 2012 Pokemon World Tournament-Aces Cup at the Indigo Plateau open!" Everyone cheered again as fireworks exploded in the air. The Announcer takes over the commentary.

Announcer then said this, "The first stage of the PWT-Aces Cup is Group Play. All 80 competitors will be divided into eight groups of 10. In each group, all trainers will battle one another in full battles. Group Play will last for the first three weeks only on weekdays. This will give competitors and spectators enough time to train their Pokemon and take in the sights and sounds of the Indigo Plateau! A win is worth 3 points, a tie is worth 1 point, and a loss is worth zero points, and the trainer with the most points will move on to the next stage! So let's group our competitors now!" The huge stadium's screen shows Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H with 10 Pokemon Trainers in each group.

Group A [Roland Yoshi, Max Maple, Cameron Kotetsu, Barry Pearl, Tyler Tsai, Ash Ketchum, Nico Elek, Yuri Draco, Agua Poole, Salim Khan].

Group B [Victoria Wong, Lyra Kotone, Calem Xavier, Chris Smith, Hunter Thor, Chase Cruz, Isaiah Toms, Ian Han, Atira Hunt, Ted Phillips].

Group C [Cathy O'Hara, Tyson Tetsuya,Carol Walsh, Dwayne Johnston, Mac McGregor, Destiny Holtz, Chester Elek, Paul Slaid, Verona Flanigan, David Williams].

Group D [Diana Diaz, Isaac Newt, Austin Tex, Assunta Sayuri, Charlie Winston, Roger Costas, Jurgen Stromberg, Hiro Misokawa, Serenity Ailene, Brad Jenkins].

Group E [Dino Wayne, Susan Swift, Dana Furi, Ingrid Vogel, Jon Dickson, Mandi Mark, Patrick Patterson, Olivia Vinoni, Theo Beta, Sarah Churchill].

Group F [Shannon Selma, Bedro Buden, Minnie Hazel, Harrison Hurst, Henry Moren, Hugo Wiseman, Franco Mundo, Quenten Ross, Barton Hart, Beverly Mills].

Group G [Braxton Hinton, Conway Kohei, Morrison Mune, San Pei, Virgil Tracy, Elise Fleur, Vivian Hong, Sirius Lockart, Mary Watkins, Molly Ginger].

Group H [Gwen Robinson, Kevin Potter, Rafe Ryu, Alicia Pastrana, Sid Ralph, Neira Reid, Zoel Meister, Ritchie Hiroshi, Arthur West, Jackson June].

Ash then said this, "Looks like we're in Group 'A' Pikachu! Let's put everything we got!" Pikachu squealed and shot his fist up in the air.

Max then said this, "Whoa same here Ash."

Ash then said this, "Max when we battle, let's give it our all!"

Max then said this, "Deal!" Ash and Max shook hands.

Ritchie then said this, "Well Sparky, Group H it is." His Pikachu named Sparky cooed.

Announcers then said this, "Competitors, you will receive a schedule of all of your individual Group Play matches. As always, we wish the competitors all the best in the spirit of human and Pokemon!" The crowd cheered again. Ash and all of his friends and rivals called it a day and prepared for the battles that lay ahead.

**Notes and Trivia**

Names of most of the competitors are based off Ace Trainers in the Pokemon games. One of my readers said that some of the names are those of Harry Potter characters. It's probably just a coincidence.

**End Notes and Trivia**