The virus issue has been resolved! Onto more writing!

This is the second chapter with the mention of an OC. For those out there who don't like OCs don't worry they aren't exactly pivotal to the story here. Imagine character of the day importance level. This is Hitoriga127's OC in case you all wanted to know :) Also a cameo appearance is made in this chapter by AegisDragon's OC, Mathias.

Ages:

Ash: 18

Misty: 18

Brock: 23

Gary: 18

May: 18

Max: 13

Drew: 17

Dawn: 18

Paul: 19

Cilan: 22

Cress: 22

Chili: 22

Iris: 20

Ritchie: 18

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Clemont: 18

Serena: 18

Harley: 24

Solidad: 24

Zoey: 19

Barry: 19

Kenny: 18

Nando: 25

Stephan: 19

Bianca: 20

Cameron: 18

Trip: 18

Georgia: 19

Burgundy: 19

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Various others:

Delia: 37 (based off her age of the novelization according to bulbapedia [29] + 8 years from the start of Ash's journey.

Giovanni: (Unknown) but in this story: 58

Prof. Oak: 64

Redrick(Red Ketchum): 38

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Normal Talk

Thoughts

Lucario talking unless stated otherwise

Zoroark talking unless stated otherwise

Meinshao talking unless stated otherwise

Let the journey continue...

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Everyone got ready silently the next morning. Gary did speak but very little, mainly reminders or a good morning or two. The groups mostly decided to leave him alone for the time being unless he stayed that way for too long, then they would intervene. The trip down the mountain was a little smoother; the winds were mostly quiet, much like the group. They were close to entering the village when the elder, Fuyu, approached them and stopped them.

"Fuyu-san? What are you doing here?" Kuno asked.

"Hush, boy," Fuyu spoke and turned to Ash and sized him up. He approached him and held his hand before placing and cold stone in Ash's palm, "You'll need it more than us." He then turned to face the entire group, "The Rockets have come for something. Pryce and the others are fighting back. We need your help young ones."

"What!?" Kuno yelped and started running towards the village with Melissa trailing behind. The rest of the group nodded and started making their way towards the village.

Two large armies of pokemon were battling each other. The Rocket's and the pokemon of the people of the village and the people of Mahogony. Everyone began releasing their pokemon to fight alongside them. Ash released Jolteon, Lucario, and Garchomp, Brock released Fortress and Swampert, Misty called out Gyarados, Gary released his Blastoise and Umbreon, Ritchie let out his Zippo, Max asked for Sceptile and Kirlia's help, Drew brought in Flygon, May used Venusaur, Paul let out Magmortar and Tyrogue, Dawn used Quilava and Mamoswine, Cilan used Simisage and Paras, Cress called out Seel and Poliwrath, Chili released Growlithe and Heatmor and evolved Growlithe with a fire stone, Iris let Lapras and Aerodactyl out, Serena commanded Delphox and Vivillion in battle while Clemont used Chesnaught and Magneton, Harley revealed he had a Clefable and used his now evolved Haunter, Solidad released a new Ninetails and Raichu, Zoey used her Gallade and a Leafeon, Barry sent out Hitmonlee and Roserade, Kenny used his Empoleon and Graveler, Nando used Sunflora, Stephan released Zebstrika, Bianca's Emboar joined the fight, Cameron's Lucario, Georgia's Beartic, and Burgundy's Stoutland also took their places and prepared to battle. Mysa's white hide was shining in the midst of the huge fight and perhaps one could see Chazo teleporting around and slamming unsuspecting Arbok or other various poison types with Psychic attacks. Ash ran forward and flanked his Lucario and Cameron's and added in his own Aura spheres. Cilan's Paras evolved during battle, as did Max's Kirlia into Gardevoir, Paul's Tyrogue into a Hitmontop, and Dawn's Quilava. It was then that a tremendous roar echoed through-out the area. Ash and the others whipped their heads around to see Vane riding on top of an absolutely massive Steelix that glinted gold in the sun. Ash looked down at the stone that he once again held in his hand. No bigger than a large marble the stone glittered navy blue and red and orange swirled in it's core. He saw the massive Steelix let fly a super powerful Hyperbeam. The earth shook and Ash fell to the ground. At this level he could only see glimpses of his friends and their pokemon fighting. He pulled himself back up and made it to his Garchomp, remembering something that Professor Sycamore had told him once about mega-stones and how color was often an indicator of which pokemon it belonged to. The only problem was Ash didn't have a mega ring. He finally made it to his pokemon and placed a hand on it's back. Garchomp swung around in almost bestial fury, not realizing his trainer was the one approaching. Ash pulsed aura into his friend almost instantly calming him. Ash held the stone in front of Garchomp and his dragon ate it right out of his hand. Ash was surprised at first but simply nodded in understanding. Maybe Garchomp couldn't mega-evolve right now, but perhaps the stone could give him power.

"Keep up the good work, pal," Ash spoke before beginning to turn and face a new opponent. It was then that he was surprised by the bright glow that soon engulfed his friend. It wasn't too long before a Mega-Garchomp took the place of his dragon-type.

"GARRRRRRRR!" Garchomp roared and the battle seemed to stop and all eyes turned to the new beast in their midst. Vane, still atop his Steelix, squinted his eyes and then yelled out,

"Hyperbeam on that Garchomp!"

The beam of raw energy cut right across the ground and was on a collision course with Ash's Garchomp. The beam hit and made Garchomp shuffle back a bit. The draconic pokemon then grinned, letting all his teeth show, and suddenly released his own Hyperbeam that tore through the air and merely by the air currents around it, caused the earth to burn and crack. The beam struck Steelix and the pokemon roared and reared back. It turned back towards Garchomp and was working to form another Hyperbeam when suddenly Garchomp jumped into the air and started to soar about. Garchomp built up a Draco meteor in his mouth and shot the attack towards Steelix. The attack detonated blasting away some nearby pokemon and making Vane fall to the ground. Garchomp struck the ground again and let out and horrendous roar which forced some of the weaker pokemon, in the Grunts' possession, to retreat into their pokeballs. Vane growled and pulled himself up. His eyes locked with Ash's for a brief moment, before he turned at the sound of a Dragonite roar in the distance.

"Reatreat! Hear me fellow Rockets! Retreat!" Vane yelled above the sounds of battle. Soon Team Rocket was vanishing into the undergrowth. Vane turned and was teleported away with his Kadabra after he had returned his Steelix. A few people were able to trap some of the Rockets in time for the approaching G-men to apprehend them. Ash looked up at his Garchomp as the bright glow dimmed and he returned to his normal form.

zzzzzzzz

The G-men were busy talking with Pryce and interrogating the Rockets they had managed to catch. The group was settling down after having to fight so hard. Many took their turns taking showers due to the dirt and grime that had easily plastered itself to them during the fierce battle. After a while they got the moment to sit down and take a breath. Gary seemed a bit jittery, no doubt he had dealt with enough the past twenty-four hours.

"Good riddance."

Everyone flinched and looked up, surprised by the first voice amongst them. Trip sighed before speaking again, "I'm glad everyone got out of that in one piece."

Dawn saw Zoey smile and nod before she spoke, "I couldn't agree more, Trip."

"Your Garchomp was superb, I must say, Ash," Nando smiled and looked over at his friend. Ash nodded,

"I don't know how he mega-evolved though... Fuyu gave me a mega-stone but I don't have a mega-ring."

Everyone was confused and nodded in agreement.

"Maybe Garchomp just found it in himself to evolve?" Max asked.

Everyone didn't have an answer so they simply ended up returning to silence.

They went to bed soon after and all decided to travel together down to New Bark Town and get a boat to Hoenn. Ash explained to the second group, with a bit of Melissa's help, that he needed to stop at Shamouti island. They were alright with that and even decided to go with them there. Everyone lapsed into deep sleep after such a challenging day.

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Early the next morning the groups were getting ready to leave, when Kuno approached them.

"Hey guys, you getting ready to go?" Kuno asked and Melissa approached his side.

Ash nodded, "Yeah we are."

Kuno smiled, "It was great meeting everyone. I'm glad I could help some," he turned to face Brock, "Brock... I was wondering if we could have a battle before you go? Between Resha and your Onix. For old time's sake."

And so the group made their way out to a clearing next to the village after getting ready to leave. They had already said goodbye to the village elder, Pryce, and even Lance. Nando offered to referee,

"This will be a one-on-one battle between Brock Harrison and Kuno Hart. Informal. Are both trainers ready to battle?" Nando asked.

The others sat nearby eagerly awaiting the battle. Both trainers nodded.

"Alright, Begin," Nando spoke and the two trainers released their pokemon. That's when Kuno realized something... Brock didn't have a Onix anymore.

"Ready to battle Steelix!?" Brock cried out and his pokemon roared at the ready. Brock smiled at Kuno, "Sorry to tell you but poison won't save you this time."

Kuno smiled back, "I didn't wanna win that way anyway. Let's do this, Resha!"

"Char bok boka!" The Arbok hissed.

"Resha use Coil!" Kuno shouted. Resha twisted her body tightly around herself.

"Steelix, Irontail!" Brock shouted in return. Steelix made it's way over to Resha and batted her aside with his iron-clad tail. Resha hissed after coming to a stop from Steelix's attack. She made her way closer to Steelix before Kuno gave a command.

"Use Crunch!"

Resha lunged at Steelix and bit down hard. Steelix flinched but didn't seem too bothered by the dark-type attack.

"That all you've got Kuno? Don't tell me you've regressed," Brock smiled as a challenge. It was making him happy to slightly relive the days of him being the Pewter city gym leader.

"No way, switch to Ice fang!" Kuno called out.

Ice started to crystalize around the spot Resha still was biting onto.

"Steelix, Dig! Shake her off!" Brock shouted.

Steelix struck the ground and dug deep. After a moment Resha made her way up to the top of the ground, before Steelix rocketed up from underneath her. After it was all said and done, Resha and Steelix both seemed tired.

"Resha, Mud bomb!" Kuno yelled. The mud slammed into Steelix and caused him to roar in pain.

"Steelix, use Dragonbreath!" Brock shouted. Steelix's attack struck Resha as she let fly another Mub bomb. Both pokemon fell to the ground and for a moment there was silence...

Before Nando could call it a tie, Steelix rose his mighty head. He was panting but he was conscious.

"Arbok is unable to battle, Brock Harrison is the winner!" Nando declared.

The two returned their pokemon and approached each other.

"You've gotten even stronger, Kuno. I'd pretty much call it a tie since Steelix was defiantly on his last leg. If you could've used some poison like poison types are known for... you probably would've had me," Brock smiled.

"Yeah, don't you worry though next time I'll beat you. Maybe we can have another battle only it can be a full six-on-six," Kuno grinned and happily shook Brock's hand. Kuno then walked over to Melissa and she gave him a navy and red egg. He turned around and looked at Iris, "Here, this is Mysa and Elser's egg... I want you to train it and make it strong. Mysa agrees."

"Young dragon master... Take my egg and care for it," Mysa gave Iris a toothy smile as she tenderly held her new egg.

"I don't know what to say... Mysa... Are you sure?" Iris asked.

Gegorgia seemed gob-smacked as she watched the scene unfold. That dragon-type was talking and giving Iris another dragon type... for her to beat.

"Yes... I am," Mysa nodded, "You are very pure-hearted humans... I can sense a great destiny lies before you. Many pokemon are starting to feel a change coming... Good luck young ones."

The group said their goodbyes to their new friends and started on their way to New Bark town.

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As they walked down the dirt path, the two groups talked. There still seemed to be a bit of a cloud over them. After seeing the memory from the time-flower and Team Rocket once again causing harm, they were a bit down-trodden.

Misty turned to Ash at one time and asked him a question, "Hey Ash?"

"Yeah Mist?" Ash replied.

"Did your dad ever talk to you about aura? In that memory... Vee said his aura didn't work anymore. I wonder what that meant?" Misty asked.

"How does that work? How does aura stop working?" Serena asked curiously.

"I don't know... I never knew anything about aura before Sir Aaron's Lucario told me about it. Dad never talked about it, but I guess I got it from him... my aura that is. As for why it would stop working? I don't know... I guess we can try to ask Lucario sometime later," Ash answered and everyone nodded in agreement.

After another long period of silence, Gary took in and breath as if to speak. Everyone suddenly looked up at him.

"We've got to stop them," Gary spoke simply, "We've got to stop Giovanni and all of Team Rocket... One way or another... I won't rest until that man pays for his crimes."

Everyone was silent and nodded. Gary then tried to bring a smile to his face, "I'm going to be okay... Nothing's different from before. I'm going to keep going and keep on keeping on... Otherwise father would be disappointed with me."

Everyone smiled at his determination and then they worked to talk about more joyful things and soon the cheerful atmosphere of the group came back. They continued down the road towards New Bark town.

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A day later they reached New Bark town's port and got their tickets for the next ship to the Orange Island's Shamouti island, as well as a connecting ticket that would ferry them to Hoenn's Petalburg city. It would take a day to reach Shamouti island and then after a day lay-over they would be getting to Hoenn a day after that. A couple hours passed and they boarded their first ship.

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They got relatively good accommodations on the ship, even for one headed to a sparsely populated island. It was most likely because they were being dropped off and the boat wasn't going to actually stop there. Ash, Gary, Drew, Trip, Stephan, Barry, and Max got a room next to Georgia, Bianca, Solidad, and Iris. Down the hall and to the left Harley, Nando, Brock, Paul, and Cameron got a room next to Ritchie, Cilan, Cress, Chili, Kenny, and Clemont. Misty, Zoey, Serena's room and Dawn, May, and Burgundy's room were down the hall and to the right. They all got settled in and wandered around the ship. Ash, Gary, Drew, and Trip remained in their room and watched some TV while everyone else did their own things.

zzzzzzzzzzzzz-Ash, Gary, Trip-zzzzzzzzzzzz

"And we're back to the battle between Jake and Mathias! If you're just joining us, then we'll inform you that Jake has just lost his Zebstrika to Mathias' Dragonair. Now we see that Jake has chosen a powerful looking Granbull! Mathias is returning his Dragonair and now we see his Serperior is uncoiling itself from it's trainer and making it's way onto the field! This is turning into an explosive battle folks!"

Gary smiled, "That Mathias is a pretty good trainer. He almost seemed like he was playing with Jake there. He had that battle from the beginning."

"Yeah no doubt. That Dragon rage attack was brutal too," Ash nodded, still watching the battle as it unfolded.

"I've heard of him. He became a trainer a year before me. I've wanted to battle him, but never ran into him. Apparently he's pretty good. He likes to toy with some of the people he battles with. It can kinda get unnerving at times," Trip explained and placed his arms behind his head.

"Neat, it would be fun to meet him," Ash spoke and grinned.

"Of course. I agree," Drew nodded.

There was a bit of silence and then Trip asked a question.

"Ash... How do you feel about this whole thing... I mean this prophecy and all this... You think it's real? You too Oak, being a researcher like you are."

Ash sighed, "Trip... If you had any idea how often this happens to me... You'd wouldn't even bother asking... I used to believe in legends because I trusted my parents and elders... I believe in them now Trip... because I've seen them with my own eyes. I've seen things some people only dream of seeing in all their years. I wish it wasn't true in some ways... but I can't deny that it is," Ash smiled, "I've just gotta do it."

Gary nodded, "Yep... I have to agree. I've seen some strange things too... maybe not like Ash, but enough. If we can resurrect once extinct fossils and feel a bond as powerful as the one shared between trainers and their pokemon... then as a rational thinking person and maybe not as a professor... I believe it is true... My dad always told me never to ignore things outside my realm of knowledge... I intend to do that very thing."

Drew smiled showing he agreed with them both. Trip nodded. Ash then looked up, "Trip... why do you ask?"

Trip looked up and glanced at Ash, Drew, and Gary before giving a wry smile, "I guess... I've just never been a part of anything much bigger than myself... I suppose I'm preparing for what's to come and wondering if I can play my part."

Ash smiled, "I think you can, Trip."

Trip seemed a bit surprised by Ash's support but nodded and leaned back again, "Thanks... I guess we'll see. You've got to promise me something though."

Ash tilted his head and Gary and Drew looked at him.

"You've got to make it through this to battle me... That's the way you're going to repay me for getting me wrapped up in this crazy venture... Besides you beat me last... I can't leave it like that," Trip glanced over at Ash with a gleam of competitiveness in his eyes, "You think a kid from the boonies like you can handle that?"

Ash shook his head and then smiled before holding out his hand, "Only if you stop calling Kanto the boonies."

Trip's face seemed to twist into one of contemplation before he nodded and grasped Ash's hand, "Deal. I have to say by the way. Kanto and Johto though not Unova... were quite... intriguing."

Ash and Gary smiled at the attempt at a compliment and the three then turned to continue watching the battle on TV.

"And Granbull gets slammed! Here's the instant replay!"

"Ouch," Ash, Gary, Drew, and Trip flinched as they watched Granbull get slammed into the ground. They looked at each other before laughing.

zzzzzzzzzzzzz-Stephan, Barry, and Max-zzzzzzzzzzzzz

"I'd say she's an eight out of ten, easy."

"Eh, whatever. I need someone who can keep up with me."

"Barry... You need to learn to slow down."

"No way! I'm efficient."

"Why are we even having this conversation? I thought we were going to check out the trainer's emporium?" Max huffed. The two boys with him, Barry and Stephan, looked down at their younger friend and grinned.

"Ah, you're too young to understand," Stephan spoke and glanced back at the girl he had been watching.

"Yeah, small stuff," Barry grinned and became more focused on teasing Max.

"No way! I'm normal! You guys are the ones who are strange. Stop that Stephan! You're becoming like Brock! Curse you Brock and your plague!" Max yelled out in frustration.

Stephan turned to Max with a bit of annoyance, "Hey just wait until you grow a few inches taller. You know... maybe if we explained more about what's going on, maybe you'd understand."

"Huh?" Max asked and tilted his head.

"Oh boy... Max... let us help you," Barry grinned and placed a hand on Max's shoulder as Stephan did the same.

zzz

A few moments later, Max can be seen staring at Barry with his faced mixed between fear, intrigue, and irritation.

"And that's why we dudes do what we do. Got it?" Barry asked and grinned.

Max furrowed his brow, "Barry... I didn't understand half of the things you said... I think Drew is right. You do need medication."

Barry face-faulted but leapt back up quickly, "Oh yeah you little smart aleck!?"

Stephan then re-entered their midst. He was humming happily. Barry and Max turned to face him.

"What's up with you?" Max asked.

"Yeah why are you so happy?" Barry added.

Stephan grinned and waved a piece of paper in front of their faces, "I just got that girl's number. Who knows? She might get to go out with the future Pokemon Master once the Master Challenge is over with. Her's name's Eliza," Stephan ended triumphantly.

"Oh yeah!? Who's says you're going to be the next Master, huh?" Barry grinned and asked Stephan with friendly competitiveness in his voice. Stephan then retaliated in some way but Max wasn't listening.

"Am I the only sane person here?" Max grumbled before he got up and started to head towards the trainer's emporium on the ship, "Crazy people."

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-Georgia, Bianca, Solidad, and Iris-zzzzzzzzzzzzz

"We should go check out the front deck area!" Bianca spoke up cheerily, "There's supposed to be all sorts of activities going on over there."

Bianca was walking along side Georgia, Iris, and Solidad as they wondered around trying to figure out what to do. Iris grinned,

"Sounds fine to me. I've been on enough of these cruise ships while me, Ash, and Cilan traveled around the Decalora Islands. I'm pretty sure something interesting is happening on the front deck."

"Eh, why not," Georgia shrugged.

"I have no trouble with it," Solidad smiled.

The girls made their way out to the front deck of the large ship and saw many people milling about. After a moment, something caught their eyes.

"Oh wow! Look at that!" Iris smiled happily. The others followed her command and glanced over to see a few people having Pokemon Ping Pong demonstrated to them. Nearby several tables were set up with people practicing on their own.

"Bet I could beat you at a game of Ping Pong," Georgia grinned and glanced at Iris.

Iris gave a similar look back, "Oh you are so on."

The two girls dashed over to a table and began to play a game minus the pokemon. Bianca and Solidad laughed at them and enjoyed watching them play. Solidad suddenly noticed something out of the corner of her eye. An Ambipom was looking at her oddly as if it recognized her. A man walked up and started talking to the pokemon and her and Solidad's gaze was broken.

"Hmmm..." Solidad murmured before focusing back on the epic Ping Pong battle of the century. By this time she didn't realize how many people had been attracted to Iris and Georgia's intense game. Bianca and Solidad shared a glanced before they both sweetdropped at their friends' antics.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-Harley, Nando, Brock, Paul, and Cameron-zzzzzzzzzzz

The storm starts to twist
The waves start to churn

The winds whisper warnings of things to come
Glimpses of the future appear in the mist

The war begins and then is won
The celebrations though are held at bay

What price has been bartered for a king's game
What sorrow and sadness has this tale spun

Nando finished plucking his strings and ended the tune, before looking up at his friends sitting nearby, "It is a sad song, no? One filled with foreshadowing and yet it reminds us all how short life can be and to value it."

"Life is short and is meant to be valued greatly... At least that's what I've always believed," Brock smiled.

"...Too bad no one seemed to ever tell that Giovanni guy that," Cameron said suddenly.

"Hun, some people just don't have standards like me," Harley huffed. Brock couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Harley's statement, but didn't say anything.

"Do you think it's right to give a weakling like Giovanni a second chance though? I mean it seemed like Red knew a few people other than himself and Blue that tried to change Giovanni... Also... can someone set in their ways... actually ever change?" Paul spoke suddenly. Brock almost immediately noticed that Paul seemed to have a lot invested in the stated question. Whatever it may be.

"Hmmm... I suppose one can only let their heart guide them to the truth," Nando spoke.

"I think... people can change... and I think everyone deserves at least one second chance," Brock nodded and looked up, "Some people just need to be shown the way and then... well then... they can make something of themselves."

Cameron smiled, "I agree! Yeah! No doubt about it!"

Nando nodded and Harley spoke, "I wouldn't be here... if that wasn't the case."

They all glanced at their odd friend. Harley frowned, "What? Were you expecting some sappy speech? That's all I've got for now you greedy boogers."

The others smiled a bit at Harley's behavior. Before long they began to talk about more interesting and happier things, Brock spoke to Paul, "Paul... It will be fine... You'll see. I don't know what's been bothering you recently, but I assure you... Whatever it is, we won't abandon you... we'll be here whenever you need us. Whenever you're ready."

Paul looked up at his older friend. Brock could see something in the boy's eyes; he was good a seeing emotions in others since he had been a caregiver all his life. Paul seemed to calm though still some last bit of lingering doubt most likely keep him from saying any more than the thank you Brock was given.

They simply changed the subject and began to talk about funnier things. Cameron decided to tell all his stories of arriving late to places and such, which provided entertainment to his friends and almost caused many to laugh heartily, even Paul started to joke about it.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-Ritchie, Cilan, Cress, Chili, Kenny, Clemont-zzzzzzzzzzzzz

We find the group of boys in an eatery... Three are dumb-founded... the other three are quite busy.

"Pass the cilantro if you don't mind, Cilan," Cress asked as his brother did the action asked of him.

"How's the tea coming along, Cress?" Cilan asked and he worked to chop up some carrots.

Cress looked over at the tea steeper that was hissing on the stove nearby, "About another two minutes and forty three seconds before the water has boiled."

"The crepes are almost done!" Chili's voice rose above the noise as he expertly flipped the delicate crepe he was working with. It was a wonder that someone like Chili with a bit of impatience could work with such a fragile dessert as a crepe. Then again he was the dessert expert.

"Are they always like this?" Kenny asked and leaned over and asked Ritchie. Clemont turned to hear his answer.

"Um... kinda. Cilan, Cress, and Chili are well..." Ritchie smiled.

"Cilan, Cress, and Chili?" Clemont said and smiled back. Ritchie grinned and nodded.

Suddenly they heard a new voice. The chief of the actual kitchen had finally gained enough courage to taste the food of the three strange boys who had commandeered his kitchen.

"C'est magnifique!" The chief shouted, "You must tell me how you do this! Or at least cook even more of this for the other guests!"

Cilan smiled, "Why not!? We'll need help though." Cilan turned and looked at Ritchie, Kenny, and Clemont. Said boys looked around as if they were thinking Cilan was looking at someone else. Finally it registered and they all glanced at each other and sweatdropped.

"Come on, fellas! A soufflé may rise on it's own but it won't cook itself!" Cress said cheerily and Chili tossed three aprons at them.

zzzz

A few moments later the three boys were being run ragged by the Striation brothers. Clemont was desperately trying to cook a roast properly but was getting a bit impatient. A glint went across his glasses before he grinned and stood up.

"Go! Clemont's Oven-a-nator! The future is now!" Clemont shouted and slammed the small door on his machine after placing the roast inside. Cilan, his brothers, Ritchie, and Kenny stopped what they were doing and turned slowly.

"Oh..." Cilan, Cress, and Chili started.

"No..." Ritchie and Kenny finished.

Moments later an explosion rocked the restaurant and black smoke exploded out from the windows and into the halls of the ship. The smoke cleared to show Cilan, Cress, Chili, Ritchie, Kenny, and Clemont covered in soot.

"Oops..." Clemont murmured.

The others sighed but smiled none the less. Kenny grumbled, "You need to have someone proof-read your sciencey stuff so your things don't blow up."

Clemont sweatdropped, "Yeah..."

"It's alright man. We'll just need to clean up," Ritchie smiled.

Suddenly the boys turned to see a mob of fan-girls staring at the Striation brothers. Chili leaned over towards Clemont, "Any chance you have something that could make us disappear?" Chili gulped.

"Heh... sorry no," Clemont gulped as well.

"Well, chalk up another thing we can't enjoy in public. No shopping in kitchen centers and no cooking in on Cruise ships..." Cress sighed.

"Geez it's not like that would draw attention," Kenny said sarcastically.

All the boys tensed as the fan-girls prepared to strike.

"For the love of the Connoisseur's Association..." Cilan murmured in fear as his doom was brought down upon him.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-Dawn, May, Burgundy-zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Dawn, May, and Burgundy started walking through the halls of the large ship, trying to figure out what to do with some of their free-time. Suddenly Burgundy stopped, "Uh... I need to go to the bathroom."

"Oh okay," Dawn smiled and looked around.

"Oh over there!" May smiled and pointed at a small bathroom a ways way.

"We'll wait right here for ya," Dawn smiled and sat down. May and Dawn started a conversation about contests as Burgundy made her way over to the restroom.

After getting done with her business, Burgundy reached up to open the door of the small restroom and realized something a little perturbing... There was no handle of any kind to open the door...

"Merde..." Burgundy muttered in annoyance in French. She started trying to find a seam of some kind so she could open the door. She found none so she tried pushing and pulling on the door. After what seemed like forever and a couple of times of her thinking perhaps she would die there, she finally opened the door with a final shove. She fixed herself up and then made her way back towards Dawn and May.

"Geez, Burgundy what took you so long?" Dawn asked with a friendly smile.

Burgundy grumbled, "I got locked in the stupid bathroom. I couldn't get out. There was no door handle or anything."

May and Dawn exchanged a look and then both raised their eyebrows in skepticism.

"Are you sure? I mean... It's a cruise ship... It think they'd have handles on all their bathrooms," May asked.

"Yes I'm sure!" Burgundy growled with a bit of frustration. She was friends with these people now... but sometimes they still could push her buttons.

The three girls turned to look over at the bathroom, to see a young man, who was an attendant of the ship, place a sign on the door of the restroom that said, Out of order. Door handle broken...

Burgundy squinted her eyes and glanced over at Dawn and May who were grinning nervously.

"What were you saying?" Burgundy grinned and the other two girls sweatdropped.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-Misty, Zoey, and Serena-zzzzzzzzzzzz

The girls had started walking around towards the battle area. As they approached one field near the back, they heard a couple of familiar voices. They ducked down once they realized Shamus and Ursula were having a somewhat suspicious conversation.

"So you wanna spilt them up?" Shamus asked.

Ursula rolled her eyes, "Yes for the last time... The girl has a temper that can get her in trouble and Ash, from what I remember, is as dense as brick. With the right maneuvering, they'll be easy to spilt up."

Shamus shifted and looked around, "You know Damian will get pissed with us if he finds out."

"Forget him. Remember, I'm going to trade you my Flareon as soon as you can find a suitable replacement in return," Ursula smiled falsely.

"Fine, what exactly do you have in mind?" Shamus asked and cocked his head and gave an arrogant smirk.

"Here take this letter... In a couple hours place it under the door for room three-o-nine. Then after another few minutes make your way to room three-thirty-four and place this letter under that door. Think you can handle that?" Ursula glared.

Shamus nodded, "Yeah, no problem. Consider them broken and single." Shamus waved the letters and grinned confidently.

After Misty, Serena, and Zoey figured the two were done with their talk, they snuck away and made their way back towards their room and eventually to Ash, Gary, Drew, and Trip, Stephan, Barry, and Max's room. They opened the door to see Ash, Gary, Drew, and Trip watching TV. The boys looked up as the three girls entered.

"What's up girls?" Drew asked first. Misty looked angry as she made her way over to Ash and sat down. Zoey and Serena both looked pretty mad as well.

"Me, Zoey, and Serena just ran into Ursula and Shamus," Misty started.

"Lovely... We're trapped on a floating tin can with those idiots," Gary grumbled.

"Oh, that's not even the best part," Zoey huffed.

"What is it?" Trip asked.

"They didn't see us! They were hatching a plan... A plan to split me and Ash up!" Misty yelped in anger.

"What!?" Ash asked starting to get angry himself. He had already felt what it was like to almost lose Misty, in more than one way, he was not going to let that happen again.

"Hey! This is great though! We know about their plan, right?" Drew grinned.

"Yeah! That means we can foil it and mess with them at the same time!" Serena grinned mischievously, catching onto Drew's idea.

It was then that they all huddled together and started to plan. After a while others started to make their way back to the rooms and everyone ended up finding out about Shamus and Ursula and the new plan. This was going to be good...

zzzzzzzzzz-Together-zzzzzzzzzzzz

Dear Mist,

I've discovered that I can't come to love you anymore. My status as a knight seems to be enough to suggest that I could do better.

Dear Ash,

I now realize that you are just too clueless to do most anything. I'm a Sensational sister... You're just some trainer.

"Geez... Does everyone think I'm stupid?" Ash mumbled as he walked beside Misty and the rest of the two groups. He and Misty had just read over the two letters that Shamus had delivered to their rooms. They were all now heading off to enact their counter plan. They had sent Max out as a spy earlier, and informed the group that Damian and his posse were near the battle area, toying with some younger trainers... typical.

"I wouldn't say you were ever stupid. Just a little..." Misty began.

"Slow?" Gary quipped and was smacked in the back of the head by Zoey, "Ouch."

"Behave," Zoey mumbled.

"Since when was it decided that I had to be treated like Brock?" Gary grumbled before being lightly punched in the arm by Brock.

"I was going to say impulsive," Misty smiled.

Ash chuckled, "I can't deny that."

As they got closer to their destination, Ash and Misty moved apart from each other as if to act like they were avoiding each other. They entered the battle area and saw Damian and his crew sitting around, talking. Ash and Misty exchanged a glance with their friends and finally each other. They then started marching towards one of the battle fields. Ash started the argument,

"Idiot? Idiot!? Really!? Ohhh! I'll show you idiot!" Ash bellowed, easily gaining the attention of everyone nearby. Ash's friends tried to put on sad or upset faces, even if on the inside they were snickering like fools.

"That's right-I-D-I-O-T, Idiot! Just encase you didn't know what that spelled! Can do better, huh? I'll show you what a better trainer looks like!" Misty yelled.

"Better... Oh no... no no no... You are so on!" Ash growled.

This was working. Ash could see Ursula's smile out of the corner of his eye. They didn't know them as much as they thought... They had no idea how convincing Ash and Misty's fights could be... and they weren't even having a real one... Who's the stupid one now?

Ash and Misty got up into their places. Pikachu and Ellie rested with the rest of the group. Pikachu had offered to simply shock Ursula and Damian and Shamus for PikaPi and PikachuPi, but sadly they had refused. Lucario, Zoroark, and Meinshao were sitting nearby as well, Ash had hoped for some time to maybe train later.

"A three-on-three sound fine? Or would that be too difficult?" Misty taunted and let the pokeball in her hand grow.

"Easy," Ash replied letting the same thing happen. They both then released their pokemon,

"Go, Serperior!" Ash shouted.

"Misty calls, Gyarados!" Misty called out.

Both serpent pokemon growled at each other.

"Serperior, use Leech seed!" Ash shouted. Serperior shot the seed at Gyarados before Misty could even react. Serperior had gotten much faster... much much faster.

"Gyarados, Flamethrower!" Misty shouted. The white-hot flames danced across the field and came in close to Serperior.

"Leaf-blade! Deflect that attack the best you can!" Ash shouted in return.

Serperior's tail glowed green and sliced through the flames as they came. It deflected most from hitting her but still caused some harm.

"Gyarados, Headbutt it!" Misty shouted. Gyarados roared in fury and reared before slamming his massive head down to try and attack Serperior. Serperior slithered out of the way quickly. During this whole time Leech seed was draining Gyarados' strength.

"Oh I get it now, the ol' waiting game huh?" Misty smirked.

Ash grinned, "Serperior, Attract!"

"Protect!" Misty shouted, surprising herself with her fast reaction. The pink hearts popped against the shield and did no harm.

"Synthesis," Ash spoke calmly as Serperior worked to regain even more strength, "Meganium and Torterra taught her that."

"Gyarados try a Flamthrower again! Bathe the field!" Misty yelled.

The fire poured out over the field and thundered towards Serperior.

"Leafstorm, blow it back!" Ash shouted.

Serperior made a low guttural noise before blowing a torrent of leaves towards the fire. Though many of the leaves burnt. The winds and remaining leaves were enough to carry the fire back and make the whole thing slam into Gyarados. After Leech seed worked one last time, Gyarados fell. Misty returned her fallen friend,

"Lucky. You surprised me that's all," Misty grumbled and pulled out another pokeball.

Ash returned Serperior after thanking her and did the same, "Sure."

"Go, Scizor!"

"Misty calls Kingdra!"

Scizor growled and crossed his arms before uncrossing them. Kingdra growled fiercely.

"Octazooka!" Misty commanded first. Kingdra moved in swiftly and shot out the inky blast with great force. Scizor disappeared from his spot and zoomed in to strike Kingdra with several Bullet punches.

"Ice beam!" Misty shouted. Kingdra turned and Scizor was slammed by the ice and struck the ground.

"Double team, quick!" Ash yelled. Scizor's copies littered the field and disappeared and reappeared, "Close in with Metal claw and then Aerial ace."

Scizor flashed and crammed his glowing claw into Kingdra's head before head butting him using Aerial ace.

"Waterfall and then Outrage!" Misty commanded.

Scizor tried to back away into his Double team maneuvers once more, but Kingdra beat him to the punch and struck Scizor hard with the torrent of water before then glowing blue and red and cramming his head into Scizor's. Scizor's knees buckled and he then collapsed.

Both Ash and Misty returned their pokemon, thanking them. Scizor really couldn't take hits... that's for sure, but that wouldn't stop Ash in the future.

"Go Tauros!" Ash called out as his bull-pokemon took the field.

"Misty calls-," Misty began before she heard the tell tale sound of a pokeball opening.

"Psy... duck?"

A cold wind blew past.

"Psyduck! I didn't choose you!" Misty shouted before she sighed, "Fine..."

Ash smiled but tried to hide it soon after. He knew something Misty didn't.

"Tauros, Take down!" Ash shouted. Tauros mooed and then took off towards the small duck.

"Take it, Psyduck!" Misty shouted.

Many people nearby looked at her oddly, except the few who understood what she was planning. Tauros collided with Psyduck and the duck tumbled to the ground and held it's head in pain. Psyduck started running around comically as it had done many times before. Ash could only wonder if Misty was going to miss that...

Psyduck cried out before becoming incased in a bright white glow...

Misty stared on... Dumbfounded. Her Psyduck was evolving. It was finally happening. Soon a Golduck stood on the field. When it opened it's eyes, a bright blue glow came from them and encased Tauros. Tauros was then being slammed against the ground by a powerful Psychic attack.

"Payback!" Ash shouted. He could tell because of the Psychic and the powerful Take down from his beast of a Tauros, this battle was going to be close. Both pokemon were tiring. Tauros became coated in dark energy and slipped out of the Psychic grasp before charging Golduck and slamming into him. Ash and Misty glanced up at each other and smirked.

"Tauros/Golduck, Giga impact/Zen headbutt!" Ash and Misty shouted in sync.

Their pokemon obeyed and dashed at their foe before slamming into each other. After a moment, both Tauros and Golduck started to fall. Ash closed his eyes. He was right, a tie. After it was all said and done, they both returned their pokemon. They silently made their way back to the group. That's when Ursula approached and spoke to Misty,

"What a heated battle... What's the matter? Trouble in paradise?" Ursula smirked and looked between her and Ash. Misty had to use every ounce of self control not to play croquette with Ursula's head and her mallet. Ash arched his eye brow,

"What's it to you?"

Ursula smiled, "I'm sorry she's been treating you badly. I could fix that."

Ash smirked before he spoke, "I'm a knight. I could do much better."

Ursula's face then slowly contorted into one filled with anger. Damien suddenly stepped forward, "What are you saying about her?"

"What I said," Ash spoke.

Damien glanced over at Misty and snorted, "She's just a runt."

Ash simply became angry. He allowed a growl to escape and blue light to fill his pupils. Damien paled and backed up a few steps, even the other boys seemed to cower a bit. Ursula seemed suddenly frightened.

Don't bother, Master. They are not worth the expense.

Lucario stepped forth and spoke, causing Damien's group to stare at him in shock. He reached forward and held Ash's wrist.

Do not waste your time. Let us go and train.

Ash nodded and Zoroark and Meinshao followed closely behind. They were some distance away before Shamus' voice called out.

"Letting your pokemon train you? How are you supposed to get strong that way!?"

Lucario growled and turned around, How little humility some humans have...

So many mighty and powerful warriors have fallen to such Hubris...

Can I toy with them, Master? Please? Zoroark chuckled childishly and let all her many teeth show.

"Of course not, Zoroark. You're terrible," Ash grinned.

Oh, sorry Master. My Dark typing was showing...

Ash smirked and let two pokeballs grow in his two hands, "You wanna see strength?"

Soon Emboar and Charizard stood outside their pokeballs. Both started to growl at their previous trainers. Ash frowned, "Leave..."

Damien turned with Ursula, Greg and Dingo went next followed by the others. Shamus was the last remaining, when he was taking too long to move, Emboar roared. He yelped before running to catch up with his group. Charizard then let out and terrific roar to finish the job.

Afterwards Ash turned to Misty and grinned, "Maybe that will get them to lay off, eh?"

Misty nodded happily, "And I got a bonus with Psyduck evolving! I'm so proud of that little goofy duck!"

After Ash returned all his pokemon but Pikachu and Ellie, Ash and Misty embraced in a happy hug and everyone made their way back to their rooms since night was falling. They talked about Ash and Misty's awesome battle and laughed and joked the whole way about Damien's group running away and how successful their plan seemed to be. For all Ursula knew, Ash and Misty were on bad terms or no longer together, also with that in mind... Ash blatantly showed he had no interest in Ursula. So even if he was 'single' she couldn't have him. Hopefully they could relax and forget about the unpleasant group. They separated into their own rooms and slept.

zzzzzzzzz

So the Mt. Silver fiasco and been mostly resolved. and we start moving towards Shamouti Island and probably the last chapter of the Arc.

Misty's Psyduck finally evolves! GASP!

And it turns out that Ash and Misty are pretty good actors :P and Ash gets to scare Damien's group with his glowy eyes… Ash has special eyes XD

By the way that little tale with Burgundy getting locked in the bathroom happened to my cousin in real life once. The only difference being we though he had a bit too much to drink if you catch my drift, but he was actually right and we all were proven wrong. The bathroom in fact was nearly impossible to get out of once you went in… then again it was a sketchy train going from Italy to France… hmmm. Anywho I thought it was funny. It's actually a lot harder to figure out things to do for characters on a boat. My favorite part being Cilan and his brothers cooking.

I made up that soufflé saying too. Pretty clever, eh?

Answers to some questions:

Fan: Yes Misty's Togetic will come back :) It will happen in the Hoenn Arc. {THE NEXT ARC :D}

I've decided to give you guys a list of the new pokemon caught after each chapter so that new pokemon aren't spoiled but you also can remember which pokemon are new and aren't on the list at the start of the Arc.

Ash: Scizor/Houndoom

Ritchie: Drowzee[Doc]/Totodile[hasn't been named yet(not taking suggestions though, already know what he's going to be named)]

Misty: Wooper

Brock: Shuckle

Gary: Duskull

Max: Doduo

May: Sentret

Drew: Flaaffy/Mantyke

Dawn: Misdreavus

Paul: Hitmontop

Cilan: Shroomish/Weepingbell

Cress: Seel

Chili: Slugma

Iris: Lapras/Egg

So there you are I hope this helps some :) If you ever need the full list, minus the newest additions, it's at the beginning of the Arc.

Follow, Fav, Review, and most importantly, Enjoy! :D