**** You will need to read the AN for this one. It has some explanation for some things :) ****
Day Count: 110 (before the events of this chapter)
For now I'm going to say that each chapter will be up every week, roughly. I will inform you whenever I get any buffer chapters and can update faster or if something comes up to alter this schedule.
Thanks for your patience! Enjoy! :D
Ages:
Ash: 19
Misty: 19
Brock: 23
Gary: 18
May: 18
Max: 13
Drew: 18
Dawn: 18
Paul: 19
Cilan: 22
Cress: 22
Chili: 22
Iris: 20
Ritchie: 18
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Clemont: 18
Serena: 18
Harley: 24
Solidad: 25
Zoey: 19
Barry: 19
Kenny: 19
Nando: 25
Stephan: 19
Bianca: 20
Cameron: 18
Trip: 19
Georgia: 19
Burgundy: 19
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
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
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Normal Talk
Thoughts
Lucario talking unless stated otherwise
Zoroark talking unless stated otherwise
Mienshao talking unless stated otherwise
Let the journey continue...
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Ash was aware that someone had gotten out of their pokeball. The first clue was Ash's aura vision starting to kick in as he started to wake. The second, was the huge weight on his chest and that was just the pokemon's head.
"Hippopotas… I… I can't… breathe," Ash huffed out.
"Hippo…"
"I think your comfy too, but not like this," Ash wheezed.
"Hip…po…" Hippopotas sighed and rolled his head off Ash.
Ash took in a deep breathe, "Thanks pal."
Ash looked around and saw that everyone else was still sleeping, though they would be waking pretty soon. Pikachu opened a sleepy eye.
"Chu pika?" Pikachu grunted.
"Sorry pal," Ash chuckled slightly. He rose and cracked his joints, "Well might as well let Luxray work a bit with me on him." Ash pulled out Luxray's ball and tossed it. The large electric type appeared and looked over at Ash. "I thought this early morning would be a good time for you to practice running, jumping and dodging with me mounted on you.
Luxray let his eyelids slip down halfway on his eyes as if unimpressed with the idea, but shrugged his shoulders.
Ash chuckled nervously, "Not exactly the spirit I was hoping for but I'll take it for now." Ash approached Luxray from the side and mounted him carefully. He only used this method when he was mounting a pokemon that was unused to being ridden. Some pokemon not used to being ridden could be surprised otherwise. Luxray jostled slightly under Ash's weight but seemed to adjust fine, "Okay let's just start with running. To the trees and back, okay?"
"Lux," Luxray nodded and leapt deftly from the bluff to the meadow before running flat out towards the woods. Ash gripped his fur and felt the electric-like aura surge through Luxray's legs and chest. They came closer and closer to the forest as Luxray thundered on, until suddenly the pokemon slid to a stop.
"Luxray? Why'd ya stop?" Ash asked and leaned slightly over to try and see Luxray's face. Ash focused and noticed nothing out of place in the forest. Just and few pokemon that were grazing and resting within. He heard Luxray growl. He dismounted and started sensing a great power building up inside his pokemon. "Luxray?" It kinda feels like Infernape's Blaze ability… but… different. Ash noticed Luxray seemed to lock onto a Girafarig. It was male according to the pattern of it's yellow and dark halves by what Ash could see. Male… Luxray… Rivalry!
At that moment, Luxray snarled and leapt forward. Ash reached quickly and snagged Luxray's tail before digging his heels into the dirt and sod. He hated hurting Luxray but he had to give the Girafarig the time to escape. The hoofed pokemon cantered away in fright.
Why did he not attack any of my pokemon? What's his trigger? Ash snapped out of his thoughts when the electric type rounded on him since he was holding his tail. Ash jumped back and saw that Luxray's eyes had turned fully red.
"Luxray… easy…" Ash murmured. Luxray hissed and started circling his trainer like a Sharpedo. Ash stood still and sensed his pokemon as it circled even behind his back, "Luxray… listen to my voice… Be calmed…" Ash murmured. Luxray halted behind him and started growling. Pikachu by that time and run down to him with Hippopotas some ways behind.
"Hippo?" Hippopotas asked and wanted to help. Pikachu shook his head and held a paw in front of Hippopotas. They both watched closely.
Ash turned slowly as his aura flared up around him. Carefully he kneeled and placed a hand on Luxray's head. "There…" The red glow in Luxray's eyes faded away and the pokemon looked up at Ash with slight confusion.
"Lux?" Luxray mused.
He didn't even remember anything… Hmm… Ash pulled his aura back in and stood up, "Do you remember getting angry at all?" Maybe that's why he didn't like trainers. He started acting like this and his old trainer didn't know what to do with him and left him. He didn't remember what he did and was confused and angry for being left behind.
"Luxray ray ray," Luxray huffed and sat before licking his arm and paw on his left side. Pikachu jumped to Ash's shoulder and Hippopotas leaned on Ash's legs. Ash could sense the others getting up so he decided to return Luxray and Hippopotas and rejoin them. I'll have to figure this out later.
"Return guys," Ash nodded. He turned and started walking back to camp.
zzz-Together-zzz
"So your saying it's more like a semi-cloning process?" Drew asked.
"That's right," Gary nodded. The researcher was in the middle of explaining to Drew how fossils were revived. While most everyone else was finishing packing up.
"Huh, never thought of it like that," Drew scratched his head and smiled, "Pokemon really are more complicated than they seem, eh?"
Ash walked up and joined them again as Ellie happily claimed his other shoulder. The group gathered themselves and started heading out towards the exit of the grove. They all would miss it's hidden and safe feel, but they had important things to do. They didn't see the eyes that followed them, or at least yet. Ash was too focused on the human aura on the other side of the grove's mirage like opening. It was friendly and familiar but he couldn't quite pin down who, until he sensed the pokemon with him.
Ash's eyes cut over to a stand of trees that was nearby the exit of the grove, "I know you're there, Lance."
Everyone in the group froze as Ash closed his eyes and pulled his cloak around himself. He didn't bother with the hood since Lance was there. He'd put it up later.
"Huh, You really do have that ability then. I sure hope we can sift through all these crises soon so you and me can maybe have a battle. I heard you've gotten pretty strong, even left the battle circuit for a year, hm?" Lance walked out from the shadows with Dragonite following right behind.
Ash cocked his head in surprise, "Me? You want to battle me?"
Lance chuckled, "Yes, but it can wait. Maybe I'll get the chance if you progress far enough in the Master Challenge, though."
"You're here because of Team Rocket, right?" Ash asked. Everyone stood right beside him and watched Lance carefully. They figured the League had finally been told of their actions against Team Rocket.
"That's correct. First I must ask, are you okay? Were you injured? We were alerted that you had been captured temporarily," Lance questioned.
Ash's face remained straight, though his eyes hardened slightly, "I'm fine. My friends were able to help me before it got ugly."
"I see. Well I'm glad you are mostly well. I would like to hear however what you've discovered, may we? The grove is hidden, correct?" Lance asked.
Ash nodded. Everyone turned and walked through the grove's entrance to talk temporarily. They told Lance everything they knew, including what the corruption actually was.
"Team Rocket doesn't have any clue what it's messing with," Gary muttered and kicked a rock.
"Indeed," Lance mused before glancing back at the group, "I do believe I'll let you all slip out of my grasp this time." Lane gave a wry smile, "My report will say that you were surprisingly difficult to convince to come back with me." He paused and acquired a more serious tone, "Do be careful, all of you." He then looked specifically at Ash, "By the way, believe it or not I know what you're feeling after being at their mercy. That may haunt you in some ways, but over coming that coldness is the best thing for you. It is also soothed by the comfort of others with kinder hearts."
Misty seemed to listen to Lance's words and a smile came to her face.
"I see. I could imagine a G-man isn't welcome in a base. Team Rocket tends to get awful sore when they figure they've been fooled, hm?" Ash smiled wryly back at the champion.
Lance chuckled, rubbed his neck subconsciously where a very faint scar lied, and then nodded, "You bet. Take it easy, Ash. Like I said, all of you take care. You're all too promising to be blotted out, alright?"
Everyone nodded in determination as Lance turned and mounted Dragonite. He pulled something from his pocket and tossed it to Ash who caught it.
"That's a G-men agent communicator. Buzz it and you'll be connected directly to me. I would like to be updated on new important info if you can all manage that. Hopefully I can convince the rest of the divisions to allow you to continue what your doing. Won't be easy, though," Lance expressed.
Ash nodded and passed the communicator to Gary for him to hold onto.
"Best of luck to all of you," Lance spoke before Dragonite flapped his wings and started to disappear into the sky.
"Well, looks like Lance is on our side. Hopefully the rest of the League and it's branches will work with us instead of against us," Brock expressed.
Ash pulled up his hood and nodded, "Let's get going."
"I'm going to text Solidad so the other group knows we aren't too far from Lake Valor. That way we can all be ready to head up to the summit of Mt. Coronet together," Drew explained and pulled out his pokenav.
"Good idea," May smiled.
They moved out from the grove a second time and started down the pathway to Pastoria and Lake Valor.
zz
"Hmph."
"What is it?" Misty asked.
"I thought it would give up and stop following us, but it's still there," Ash replied.
"What is?" Cilan mused.
"That," Ash answered and pointed behind the group.
A Croagunk was coming up over the hill they had just gone up and over.
"A Croagunk?" Brock spoke.
"Wow how cool! Why do you think it's following us?" Max wondered.
"It seems quite strong compared to the other wild pokemon here," Ash explained, "Maybe it's searching for trainers to battle. Kinda like my Buizel used to."
"You think he'd battle me?" Max asked.
"Sure challenge him," Drew smiled. He seemed to get a kick out of the younger trainer's excitement.
"Alright, Dodri-huh?" Max sputtered as Slakoth popped out of his poke ball and lazily looked up at Max, "Slakoth… I'm about to battle a strong fighting type. Why'd you come out?"
"Do you want to evolve?" Ash asked the pokemon. It answered by turning to look at him and starting to glow.
"It seems he heard your wish, Max! He's evolving!" Dawn said happily.
"Vigoroth!" The evolved creature cried out and glared at it's opponent.
Max smiled and nodded, "Croagunk! I challenge you! If I win, do you want to become my pokemon?"
Croagunk sat still as his cheeks inflated and deflated.
"He said yeah," Ash chuckled.
"Wait he was speaking?" Misty asked in confusion and skepticism.
"Yeah Croagunk's talk is weird that way. Only rage or extreme emotion causes stronger reactions," Ash smiled back.
"Huh," Misty nodded and smiled up at Ash. She was glad to see the ease in his smile. Maybe Lance's words had comforted him some.
"I'm okay Mist. I'll be okay. I want you to stop worrying so much," Ash murmured and squeezed her hand as he watched the battle with the rest of the group. She nodded and turned to watch as well.
"Alright then," Max grinned, "Vigoroth, use Slash!"
Croagunk bowed up and then released several Mud Bombs.
"Dodge them and keep moving!" Max commanded. Vigoroth ran quickly and sidestepped each bomb in a flash. He appeared in front of the poison type with dust and wind behind him. With a swipe of his glowing white claws, Croagunk tumbled back. The frog rolled and flipped back onto his feet before both his hands were coated with purple energy.
"That's Poison Jab! Get ready," Max shouted and paused, waiting for the right moment. Croagunk ran forward and was prepared to attack, when Max spoke, "Counter!"
Vigoroth crossed his arms as the purple strikes pelted him. Eventually the normal type roared and he swiftly uncrossed his arms, causing Croagunk to go sailing backwards. The frog slowly rose and eyed Vigoroth carefully.
"I want you to use-" Max started before Croagunk leapt forward with his fist cloaked in darkness. "Reversal!" Max shouted in surprise as the Sucker Punch found it's mark on Vigoroth's head. The normal type stood perfectly still until both arms grabbed Croagunk's. The poison type croaked in surprise when Vigoroth, coated in a red aura, lifted him over his head and slammed him into the ground. The aura vanished and Vigoroth gave Max and goofy thumbs up.
"Croagunk has fainted," Ash nodded.
"Excellent battle, Max," Brock smiled.
"Yeah great work!" Ritchie grinned.
Max grinned crazily as he retrieved a pokeball from his backpack, "Pokeball, go!" After he tossed the sphere, he adjusted his glasses. The sphere rocked a couple times before dinging to signify capture. "Yeah! Vigoroth, that was awesome!" Max cheered as his pokemon grabbed his shoulders to be spun around. He then comically lifted Max above his head and cheered himself.
"They are quite the pair. It almost seems like a blessing that Slakoth was abandoned," Cress mused.
"Because there is sadness, we cherish happiness and because there is anger, kindness is born," Ash murmured, "I think Cynthia said that once."
"It makes since," Paul added and then was silent.
"I guess it shows emotion is important whether a necessary evil or a wonderful gift," Dawn smiled.
"Yeah, I remember my elder talking a lot about those types of things," Iris nodded.
Max smiled and after thanking Vigoroth he returned him and picked up his new pokemon, "So cool."
"Never gets old, huh?" Ash chuckled.
"You bet!" Max replied and hurried to catch up to the rest of the group as they continued walking towards Pastoria.
"You know, Lake Valor is in the middle of the city. How will you do your thing if everyone is watching?" May asked suddenly.
"I guess I'll have to take a swim at night," Ash mused, "Less people at the very least and less visibility. Also it'll give the second group enough time to get there. It not even noon yet and we should be in the city before then."
"I guess we can just hang out by the lake shore until night. Blend into the crowd, ya know?" Dawn spoke.
"Not a half bad plan, honestly," Gary nodded.
With everyone agreeing with the plan, they continued their path. In a couple hours they would reach Lake Valor.
zzz-?-zzz
"Barry! Can't you slow down!?" Georgia growled as everyone marched down the road. They had received the text from Drew earlier that morning and had almost gotten halfway to Pastoria from Sunnyshore.
"No way! The quicker we get to Lake Valor and get all that stuff done, the quicker we can come back and watch my dad's battle!" Barry yelled in excitement.
"I wonder who he's battling," Trip murmured.
"Who can say? Maybe another champion or frontier brain," Zoey suggested.
"I saw his battle against Cynthia once! His Milotic and her Garchomp were incredible!" Cameron crowed with a large grin.
"Whoever it is, Dad's going to win!" Barry grinned triumphantly.
"Unless he loses," Kenny deadpanned. Barry gave Kenny a glare.
"Mon Dieu, my feet are killing me," Burgundy grumbled.
"Maybe you should trade your loafers for better traveling shoes," Solidad suggested politely.
"But Cilan does it just fine, as does his brothers…" Burgundy trailed off, which Bianca picked up on.
"Oh! Do you liiiiike somebody?" Bianca trilled. Burgundy's face was filled with shock and horror.
"Say what!?" She exclaimed.
"Busted," Stephan chuckled.
"You can tell by the look in a woman's eye when she's in love," Harley explained and nodded with Stephan.
"Really, and how do you figure that?" Solidad asked with a unimpressed look.
"Girls have their tells and men have theirs, hun. Don't get your panties in a bunch," Harley muttered. Solidad face flushed red at the panty remark.
"You truly have no shame do you?"
"Nope."
"Okay fine, so how do you know a man's in love?" Georgia asked.
"A man-" Nando started but was interrupted by Kenny.
"Looks like he wants to die," Kenny expressed.
"Kenny, I think your mixing that up with marriage," Stephan spoke.
All the girls eyed the small group of boys with glares. Trip simply sighed and rolled his eyes.
"You were saying, Nando?" Solidad asked.
"A man and a woman aren't too different when they care for someone. Standing near them, sighing randomly, pausing in thought about something that reminds them of said person, being clumsy around one another. They are the signs that new love is starting," Nando chuckled.
Many couldn't help but notice that they were standing next to the very people they might care for. Most in the group grew silent.
"So how about those clouds?" Clemont broke the silence suddenly and asked lamely.
"Oh Clemont," Serena snorted, "Really? Clouds?"
"Hey it was an attempt," Clemont laughed nervously.
Suddenly Serena perked up and a lovely smile graced her face, "Clemont!"
"Wah! What?" Clemont jumped slightly at his friends exclamation, while everyone eyed her with curiosity.
"You aren't complaining about the trip from Sunnyshore! Your stamina seems to have improved," Serena grinned.
"Uhh…" Clemont stuttered.
"Hey, she's right! I can't really remember the last time you were trailing behind," Cameron spoke happily.
Clemont face vanished behind a veil of red when Serena touched his shoulder, That's great, Clemont!"
"Thuh-thank-you!" Clemont yelped out.
Harley rolled his eyes but caught Solidad giving him a glare with her hand raised to strike. He grunted and grabbed her hand before forcing it down by her side. He let go and crossed his arms, without a snide comment, as they continued walking. Solidad was shocked at first, before a smile came to her face. She was getting to him. She glanced at her hand in great thought before returning her eyes to the road in front of her.
"Ohhh! Is that it!? Is that Pastoria?" Bianca asked giddily as the town came into view.
"You, bet!" Barry grinned at the girl before a smile split her face too.
"Race you there!" They both cried out before dashing off in front of the others.
"How in Giratina's name do they get that kind of energy!?" Kenny grunted.
"Who knows?" Zoey chuckled.
They all walked until they heard a commotion.
"Hey, whoa! I had no idea there was a Dratini in the lake!"
"Maybe there's a underground connection to the marsh lands?"
"That guy is battling it with a Nidoking!"
The group hurried to the shore where the crowd was and saw that Barry and Bianca were already there. They were subconsciously holding onto each other, but no one said anything as they approached.
"Nidoking, use Horn Attack!"
The voice sounded familiar and they looked down at the edge of the water to see their friends spread about on the grass, watching Gary battle the small dragon.
"Remember! Just because it's a small dragon type doesn't mean it's weak!" Iris shouted and Gary gave a thumbs up to show he had heard. Nidoking thundered towards the beached pokemon, with it's horn aimed at the serpent.
"Tini!" Dratini leapt into the air and flipped before water started to collect around it's tail.
"Aqua tail, huh?" Gary mused, "Switch tactics, grab it's tail and then use Poison Jab!"
Nidoking grunted to show he had heard and grabbed the water coated tail before it could strike his face. The water splashed him but did minimal damage without the tail's momentum behind it. Nidoking's other fist turned purple before he slammed it into the dragon.
"Dra!" Dratini squealed and tumbled across the ground before it rose and hissed. It started to sway and black and red energy crackled around it.
"Dragon Dance," Gary murmured, "Get ready for anything, Nidoking!"
"King!" Nidoking roared and dug its feet into the ground.
Dratini cried out and suddenly sprung forth as dark blue energy shifted into the shape of a dragon around it.
"Brace yourself and counter with Megahorn!" Gary commanded. Nidoking grunted as green energy channeled into his large horn on his head. He bent down to aim it properly as Dratini slammed into it and him.
"Tini!"
"Nido!"
An explosion of smoke blasted from the impact and everyone braced themselves as the shockwave carried the smoke away. Nidoking had been pushed back slightly as it could be seen by the trails of mud in the grass in front of him. Dratini was on it's belly some ways away and panting tiredly.
"Wow, Dratini is strong for it's size," Max spoke and adjusted his glasses.
"Told you," Iris smiled.
"Come on Gary! Beat that dragon!" Georgia cried out suddenly and the first group smiled when they noticed the second.
"Oh put a sock in it, Georgia!" Iris shouted back.
"No you!" The dragon buster retorted.
"Silence!" Barry yelled and the two stopped, "Thank you."
"Dragon tail!"
Everyone glanced back at the battle to see that Dratini had jumped forward to try and use Dragon rage, however; Nidoking swung around and caught the serpent with it's glowing blue tail before slamming it back into the ground, where it remained still.
"Pokeball, go!" Gary shouted and tossed his red and white sphere. The dragon type was sucked inside and it began to rock. Only after a fourth shake did it finally ding and Gary let out a held in breath. He turned to Nidoking, "Excellent job, pal."
"Nido!" Nidoking roared in joy and as a show of strength. Gary returned his pokemon and retrieved his new one as the crowds started to disappear. The second group joined the first on the grass on more blankets. They watched some younger trainers, eager to battle their own Dratini, fishing down the way and along the dam. The two groups caught up and talked about what the plan was for the Lake and then Arceus, before Lance's visit and Ash's capture was mentioned. Everyone in the second group grew still and quiet when Ash told his story and the rest told their side of the tale.
"You mean they… they actually forced your aura out of you?" Bianca asked with wide and sad eyes.
"Well sort of. They kinda tricked it by attacking me. It came out to fight off the energy but couldn't find anything," Ash explained.
"Did it hurt?" Clemont asked innocently.
Ash grew silent, "It wasn't pleasant."
Trip eyed him carefully but said nothing.
"Well, let's talk about something not as depressing, hm?" Zoey smiled and Misty shot the co-ordinator a grateful look.
"So we wait here until night time?" Serena asked.
"That's the plan," Brock nodded.
"The only problem I see is that Ashy-Boy's light show won't be easy for anybody to miss, so we'll have to split as soon as he's done," Gary explained.
"How could we get out of here and still head towards Mt. Coronet quick enough?" Solidad pondered.
"Maybe Azelf will know. He might tell me when I'm in the lake," Ash nodded.
Everyone left it at that and switched to more fun topics. Like what pokemon they had caught and which ones had evolved, etc. Serena had caught a female Starly and a female Hippopotas, Clemont had surprisingly come across a Rotom, Harley had captured a Glalie which seemed just as creepy as his other pokemon, Solidad had gained a friend in an Abra, Zoey had a new Houndour of her own, Barry had tried his hand at honey on a tree again and had found a Munchlax, Kenny had a Mothim, Nando had gained an egg from a woman that had hatched into a Azurill that knew Sing, Stephan was quite proud of his new Heracross, Bianca had a Cherubi, Cameron had gained a Skorupi, Trip owned a new Rhyhorn, Georgia had captured a Piplup that was now a Prinplup, and Burgundy had snagged a Yanma for herself.
The two groups chatted until Brock and the other cooks of the group started getting a dinner ready for everyone. Zoey seemed to notice that Dawn was in deep thought.
"Dawn, something on your mind?" Zoey asked.
Paul looked over at his girlfriend with what most would think was a straight face, but Dawn could see the slightest difference that showed concern. She was getting better and better at reading him, which both fascinated her and scared her a tiny bit.
"Oh well… It was something… something Cyrus said in Giratina's realm," Dawn murmured.
"Yeah?" Barry asked and seemed to be eyeing Dawn more than normal.
"He mentioned, Platinum," Dawn spoke, "He mentioned my father's younger sister."
"The girl that my brother and his friend helped right?" Barry asked suddenly.
Everyone else had on faces of pure confusion.
"That's right," Dawn nodded.
"Well they did stop Team Galatic that first time around. I was kinda surprised Cyrus tried again," Barry muttered and slurped the last of his ramen from his fork.
Dawn frowned, "I remember aunt Platinum telling me that story but she seemed confident Cyrus had learned his lesson. I guess some people never learn and he paid for it."
"Wait so your saying that your older brother, his friend, and Dawn's young aunt helped stopped Team Galactic when it was a younger group?" Zoey asked Barry.
"Dia, Pearl, Platinum. Dad told me about that once," Gary murmured.
"That was when pokedexes were harder to come by, right?" Ash asked.
Misty nodded, "My mother used to tell me about how things were a bit different when she was a gym leader."
"Yeah, that's right, Zoey. They had help but they had a part in it," Dawn nodded.
"I suppose they thought the second time around they'd get it right, or whatever Cyrus thought was 'right'," Brock grunted and then chuckled, "Dad used to be gym leader back then and he often went by Brock in order to fool 'untrustworthy people' as he used to call them. After he settled down and he married mom, I guess he decided to give me that name as mine and reclaimed Flint as his own. Then again my parents are odd people."
"Are all the original dex holders retired or out of the battling circuit now?" Trip asked with a raised eye-brow.
"Mostly," Gary responded simply.
After another hour of talking and resting, the group started to notice that the lights from the city were starting to come on and the sun was going down.
"Almost show time," Barry grinned.
A few more minutes passed and finally dusk had gone and night was among them.
"Well here goes nothing," Ash spoke and stood after walking off to get into his trunks. Everyone else grabbed their things and were ready to walk away fast or even run if need be. Ash walked off into the water from the shore.
zzz-Ash-zzz
Ash felt an unbelievable sense of belonging after his head went under the surface. Perhaps it had something to do with Azelf choosing him when Team Galactic had a hold of Sinnoh last or maybe it went deeper, having more to do with his spirit and how he had never given up until the end. Regardless he felt the energy of the lake more here than the previous two. It felt like static electricity surging through him; he felt alive.
Willpower… that which was the true gift to mankind… something that people must teach pokemon… Their instincts tell them to flee, surrender to that which is strongest… but man… man resists if he deems something is unfair or unjust. That is what others don't get… You have brought forth the willpower in your pokemon. Others give up, lie down, but yours even before these recent two years… they wouldn't bow… much like their trainer. Pokemon… People… we teach each other so much… that is why the bond must remain between the two.
I see. Thank you Azelf.
No thank you, Guardian… hm hm. It seems we now share a title.
A true honor
To you as well… To reach the Mount, leap with your allies into the swirling waters from the pier. My domain is linked to father's doorstep.
Understood.
Ash focused and sent out his aura. Again the cries of the wild pokemon entered his ears as the lake started to glow.
zzz-Rest of Group-zzz
"Whoa… I thought last time was cool," Barry mumbled.
The lake, being in the middle of the city, was also much larger and thus the lake lit up brightly and reflected light off of many of the buildings. Everyone in the group got nervous when they saw people's lights coming on in various hotels, houses, and such. Some people were even visible on their balconies, peering at the abnormality occurring in the lake.
"I hope Ash hurries," Serena whispered.
About that time they turned and saw Ash walking out of the water with his eyes glowing once more.
"We gotta split faster than we thought," Gary informed.
"Great, follow me. We've got ourselves an easy path," Ash grinned and let everyone follow into step behind him. He walked over to the pier and everyone glanced down to see a swirling whirlpool.
"You're kidding, right?" Georgia asked and turned to everyone, "He is kidding?"
"Sorry, Georgia. That's what Azelf told me," Ash shrugged.
"Did you forget to mention that you were the only one that was planning on swimming?" Misty deadpanned with an irritation mark present.
Ash snorted, "He told me what to do, besides I imagine you guys won't get as wet as you think. It is a portal. That stuff works differently."
"Eh, oh well," Drew shrugged and walked towards the edge, "Later." He hopped slightly backwards and disappeared into the vortex.
"See? Drew's got the right idea," Ash nodded and walked over before running and jumping in himself. Everyone gathered closer to the edge.
"Um…" Dawn whimpered.
"Shall we?"
Dawn turned and saw Paul looking at her, "I think it's my turn, right?"
Dawn smiled and reached for his hand. They walked forward as he put an arm around her shoulders.
"It'll be quicker than you think. Your stomach will rise once and then it'll be over, alright?" Paul said simply and seemingly tried to avoid showing emotion. Dawn however smiled gently at him.
"Alright."
"One, two, three-" Paul spoke quietly and they both jumped at the same time with a small cry from Dawn as they fell.
Gary glanced over at Misty, "Ladies first."
Misty smirked, "I think I shall." She strode forward and jumped over the edge.
"Come on May," Max spoke and motioned to May as he went to step forward, "It's kinda like a roller coaster only not as long or as fun."
"Uh, you go ahead. Oh and tell Drew he's in trouble for leaving me behind," May said with nervousness and waved her hand without changing her nervous smile.
"Meh, suite yourself," Max mumbled and jumped.
Brock waited for Ritchie and Chili to go before jumping himself. Nando went after Stephan and Cameron, holding his hat to keep it safe.
"You wanna go with us, May?" Bianca asked as Barry, Kenny, and Zoey stood together next to the edge.
"Uh… okay," May gulped and walked forward. The small group jumped at the same time with Bianca almost strangling Barry on the way down.
"Madame?" Cress asked Burgundy politely.
She blushed and glance at him sideways, "Oui."
The two walked forward before leaping in together.
"Let's go Clemont! I don't wanna miss whatever's going on over there," Serena spoke and grabbed the inventor's wrist and pulled him over to the edge.
"Oh… alright," Clemont shut his eyes and as he jumped in with Serena, couldn't help but pinch his nose out of habit.
"Well let's go Iris," Cilan chuckled and walked forward with his girlfriend. They gripped each other's hands before leaping in.
"Well you going, Oak?"
Gary glared behind him at Trip who seemed to be smirking at the researcher, "If I didn't know any better, I'd say your scared."
"Shut it, Trip. I was just making sure everyone got over and no one got left behind," Gary replied.
"Sure…" Trip huffed but then yelped when Georgia grabbed his collar and started dragging him towards the edge. She whipped him around and pushed him in, causing the trainer to yell out in surprise and topple unceremoniously into the vortex. She then saluted the remaining trainer's and jumped herself.
"Well that works," Solidad muttered, "Come on, Harley."
"But my Cacturne suit…" Harley whined.
"It'll dry. Now come," Solidad motioned and walked towards the edge. She turned to encourage or persuade forcefully for Harley to jump, but came face to face with a Harley that was grinning mischievously.
"Pay back's a bitch," Harley smiled brightly and shoved Solidad into the portal.
"HARLEY!" Solidad yelled out before her voice was lost.
"That was kinda cruel," Gary smirked.
"Hey, she sent me out into the center of a lake and then pretended to reel me back in. She had it coming," Harley replied as Gary stepped up next to him.
"That or you are competing with her like a little kid who has a crush," Gary mused and lifted his hand to act as a shrug. Harley's face went red with anger.
"You little twerp! Me be attracted to her? She's so… so…" Harley growled and tried to swat the researcher.
Gary ducked however before jumping out backwards and above the vortex, "Lost for words?" He asked with a childish grin as he slipped through the portal.
Harley rung his hands in an angered manner before groaning at the sky and then walking off the pier and into the portal with a deadpan expression on his face.
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"AHh!" Harley yelped as he was forced up out of a portal in the ground and onto his rear beside the opening.
"Yeah, weird change of gravity there," Clemont murmured and was looking closely at the portal with intrigue.
"Gah! Cold cold cold," Ash whimpered as he rubbed his arms and grabbed up his things from Brock. He rushed over behind a pillar to change.
The group was standing at the top of Mt. Coronet, sitting in the midst of Spear Pillar.
After everyone looked around some, Ash rejoined them with his clothes back on and his cloak wrapped tightly around him.
"So, now what?" Kenny asked and glanced around.
"Is Arceus just supposed to pop in?" Iris added.
Ash glanced around until he caught sight of something he was sure hadn't been there the first time he'd visited the summit, "Hey those are new."
The group glanced over and saw two statues. One was of Dialga and the other was of Palkia. Ash wandered over to one side while Paul happened to walk over to the other.
"When two lives meet-" Ash read from the base of the Dialga statue.
"-something is born," Paul added from the writing on Palkia's base.
"That's the saying Cynthia used to say all the time," Dawn murmured.
"How does that help us though is the question," Zoey mused.
Clemont was looking closely at the two statues when suddenly he spoke, "If I may make a suggestion… Perhaps if we push the two statues together, something will happen. The message may be somewhat literal in this case."
Ash shrugged, "Worth a shot." He leaned into the statue and surprisingly it started to move, "Huh, how?"
"That thing's got to be way heavy. No way you're pushing it!" Bianca said in awe.
"No… look," Gary motioned and pointed at the base, "There are groves on either side. I think Clemont's right. These statues are meant to be moved with little effort."
Paul grunted and starting pushing as well and soon enough the two statues collided. Ash and Paul glanced around their statues at each other. No doubt both couldn't help but marvel at the thought that destiny truly had foreseen this. No way would they have met as almost enemies, been told the saying that was inscribed on the statues, and then one day a few years later, they would be friends, working together, and actually living out the very words written in stone in front of them.
"Well this is really something," Ash muttered.
"I have to agree with you there, Ketchum," Paul nodded.
Everyone watched as the groves in the statues seemed to connect and light snaked its way through every crevasse. The light then faded and all was still. Quite suddenly the earth started to rumble; the statues were forcibly slid back into place before sliding down into the earth and disappearing behind small trap doors. At the end of the area, a small stone bell that looked incapable of movement starting ringing softly before stopping only moments later. Again everything was quiet.
First red, then blue, then green, yellow, gold, pink, colors of all kinds appeared as strands of energy that were swirling around in the shape of a vortex in front of them. Ash's eyes lit up against his will from the energies there and he doubted he could try and make his natural brown return while inside Arceus' realm. The portal to the Hall of Origin lie before them.
No one could actually find the nerve to move forward. They couldn't imagine what they would see beyond that portal. It certainly wouldn't be quite like anything they had seen before.
Ash took a deep breath and looked back at everyone, "It's time to face destiny." He smiled at them with his irises glowing ice blue and then turned to started walking in. Pikachu and Ellie gripped his shoulders tighter as he started forward. Everyone then collectively followed after him.
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It was just a field.
The group stood together on a vast grassy field. It was so peaceful, so quite and calm. The gentle breeze tickled their skin and the sun warmed them perfectly.
Ash was certain someone behind him tried to speak but no words formed. He didn't blame them.
You are the guests that father was waiting for.
Everyone turned sharply to see two Deoxys standing behind them. One had a purple core and the other an orange. It seemed the colors of the core were unique for each individual.
Come. You will wait for father in the waiting room. The you will be allowed into the Hall of Origin. The other explained and seemed to have a bit more friendliness about him.
This way. The second spoke again and both started walking away. Ash and everyone else followed after, thought no one really wanted to leave behind that beautiful field. The grass started to fade away and dark onyx-like floors and celestial ceilings appeared. In the small room before them, they saw a familiar face.
"Mewtwo?" Ash asked in confusion as the bipedal feline turned his head and noticed everyone.
Ash, friends… I see you have come to have counsel with… Arceus and his children.
"Yeah, but why are you here?" Ash questioned.
I too have questions I would like answered.
Ash nodded as the Deoxys turned to both Mewtwo and the group.
Wait and father will see you soon. Both Deoxys turned and walked away. The orange one disappeared but the purple lagged behind and seemed to be looking at Ash. You share his DNA… He is your… origin. I once thought he was… mine. The purple DNA pokemon then vanished without a trace.
"What's that mean?" Max asked.
Ash was staring at the place the pokemon once had been, "I'm not sure."
I can see that you now know what it means to be treated as unequal to humans.
Ash turned back to face Mewtwo.
They tested your power as they did mine… Forgive me… It is a habit that I pry into one's thoughts.
Ash smiled, "You would've run into more trouble seeing those memories if I wasn't willing for the most part. I had my mental shields down."
Mewtwo seemed to acquire a somewhat surprised look on his face. His eyes glowed blue. You… I sense it now… You have a strong power inside you that is growing even stronger. The psychic lost the glow in his eyes.
Ash nodded and gave the pokemon a smile.
Everyone's attention was averted from the scene when two large doors in front of them, opened slowly.
Come… Come in all of you.
Mewtwo nodded to the group as everyone walked in together.
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The room was massive; at the far end of it, a throne sat. With a cry, Dialga appeared and rested on the right side of the throne; Pialka cried out next and landed on the opposite side.
Welcome Guardian, dear friends.
Ash and everyone shifted as Arceus walked from seemingly nowhere through the room before laying on his throne.
Ash took in a sharp breath when all his pokemon from the tree suddenly appeared around them. Mew giggled and flew over to Arceus.
Daaaddy! I brought them all like you asked! Mew came right into Arceus' face before mewling and spinning happily.
Thank you dear daughter. Your help is most appreciated.
Ninjask fluttered over and landed on Ash's head, while Lucario and his other links moved closer to their Master. Ash heard Venusaur cry out and turned to see him swatting away Heracross.
Arceus chuckled, It is delightful to see personalities among living things. He turned and a bit and nodded, First we must bring in the others that are available. Sadly most of the legends are too busy with other things, however; the Guardians are always here.
Quite suddenly people started to fade into the room. Men and women with their linked pokemon and only some were recognizable. Most notably Satoshi, Aaron, Ashura, and…
"Grandma?" Ash asked with a slight crack to his voice. In front of everyone a young woman stood with ebony hair, bright brown eyes, and some familiar birthmarks under her cheeks. She aged before them until she was in a form more recognizable to Ash.
"Hello again sweet Ashy," Akira smiled kindly. Ash couldn't stop himself before he realized he was hugging her tightly. "You've been doing so so good deary. I'm so proud of you. You kept your promise, you've never given up until the very end."
A few tears escaped Ash's eyes, "You weren't alone were you? Scared, when you passed?"
Akira grew quiet until, "I was a little afraid as most living things are made to feel, but my goofy husband came and whisked me away. That is where you get your clumsiness you know? That special Ketchum brand of klutz. Ho ho ho! but I know I was never more excited and happy to see him then."
Ash chuckled and parted from her slightly, "He didn't try to do that weird dance, did he? I don't think that's even a true kind of dance he does. I really think he made it up."
"Ho ho ho! Yes'um that wonderful fool. I do agree I think he made it up, he he," Akira laughed happily.
Ash looked around, "Where is he?"
Akira smiled and looked at the others in the group, "Do not fear if you don't see a pokemon, a loved one, or a friend, this place is sacred and only the Legends and Guardians are allowed access here in life or death. Your loved ones rest in a lovely place beyond here. We, as counsel to Arceus, can move between the two realms."
Many seemed to let out a collective sigh of relief for one personal reason or another.
Sir Aaron's Lucario suddenly approached, "Ash… It has been a long time."
Ash smiled brightly, "Hey Lucario. It's great to see you." Ash turned to look at Sir Aaron, "And an honor to meet you finally."
Sir Aaron bowed slightly, "An honor for me as well, fellow Guardian, fellow kin."
"Um… we aren't Guardians though, why are we allowed here?" Serena asked in curiosity.
Satoshi smiled sadly, "Because there is only one true Guardian left… He needs allies to aid him. You are all good people and have thusly been allowed access to this place."
Now, let us get to the matters at hand. I'm aware you know of the corruption from the past and what Team Rocket may accidentally unleash upon us all. You have been doing good by healing the hearts, continue doing so. That should be enough to prevent Team Rocket from getting what they need. Also avoid being captured the best you can… They may get desperate and try to force your energy out to reverse the good you have done.
Most of Ash's pokemon shifted in slight confusion, most hadn't been made aware that their trainer had been captured once. Some more irritable members' faces grew dark or angry towards those that would hurt their friend.
Other than that… There are but two other things. First When you visit Xerneas' domain and reach the diamond that Dancie protects, touch the stone and the pixie plate will pull itself out from within and fly back to me. I need all my power in order to fight of any threat that could come. The diamond is strong enough now to support itself. Second, It is time you are knighted.
Ash seemed shocked, "Knighted?"
You've been knighted by mankind, but not my my word yet. Step forward if you wish to join the fold of your ancestors and be honored by my children. Wild and owned pokemon will sense your presence and know they have a new living Guardian among them. They will show respect around you more than before for they will know I have touched you and gifted you this title. Ashton Satoshi Ketchum, do you accept the task set out before you? To honor your elders and the legends whom have lived upon the earth for thousands of years? Shall you show bravery, kindness, loyalty, and wisdom in your actions? Giving aid to both man and pokemon alike in their time of need?
Ash stood stock still. To be honest, he was a bit overwhelmed. He stared at the ground for a moment before he kneeled and lowered his head, "I'll be honest. I'm not sure I'm the right person for the job, however; if you will have me I will fight and act to the best of my abilities, Arceus."
Before Arceus could speak, Pikachu and Ellie ran to Ash's sides and bowed their heads. This started a chain reaction, Slowly each of Ash's pokemon, old and new, young or experienced, bowed their heads.
The rest of the group was stupefied while Mewtwo seemed surprised as he watched each pokemon, even the strongest among Ash's bow in humility, even the once untrained lizard.
Your pokemon have much faith in you, Chosen one. Bask in their confidence in you and know that you are strong enough in spirit for the task before you, your partners knew that long ago. It is why they fought for you and why they would even die for you.
Ash felt something catch in his chest at those last words. He knew he would've given his life for any of his friends, pokemon or not, but to hear out loud that they would do the same for him touched him.
Both the humans and pokemon you have met have been changed, even I have been changed by your influence at one time. Your calls helping to ease my rage… I approve of your actions and thus will knight you.
Suddenly thousands of Unown flooded into the area and circled around Arceus. They seemed to connect to each other and provide Arceus with arms. He spread the arms wide as his plates slid out from his body slightly. One arm lowered and touched Ash's right shoulder, then his left, and finally his head before it moved back.
From this day forth, you are officially one of my knights. Rise Ashton Satoshi Ketchum.
Ash stood as the rest of his pokemon followed his example.
Are their any here within the counsel that oppose this declaration?
No father. Mew replied
"No father." Dialga shook his head.
"No father." Palkia's feline voice agreed.
A chorus of "No, master." Echoed from the mouths of the past Guardians.
Then it is so
"Thank you, Arceus," Ash nodded.
You're more than welcome. Go forth all of you and do good things for this wonderful world. Life is wonderful after all.
Mewtwo trembled slightly at the last sentence from Arceus' mouth.
Arceus turned to the feline, You came to see me, child?
Hi! little brother! Mew giggled and twirled.
Yes, Arceus… I… I want to know what my purpose is. The others… humans… pokemon… They were created with your power. I was created my man's. What is my purpose?
Arceus eyed the psychic for a moment, Your purpose was not predestined like the others. You have the honor of finding your own purpose, Mewtwo.
I don't want to keep searching! I don't know what I'm looking for! Tell me what to do!
Not much different than obeying a human, hm? Must you be told what to do? Arceus replied evenly.
Mewtwo stared at the titan with mixed emotions. Mew floated closer.
Little brother… You have a great chance. I have a task that I am forever bound to… I have lived a long time and continue to do the same things. I have never been happier though to have so many fun guests. Mew smiled and looked up at Ash's pokemon. You have the chance to find something on your own. You're free, brother. Perhaps you will find something you want to fight for, something you want to protect.
Something I…
Maybe you should continue searching for the other one that is like you and together you can figure out what it is you want to protect.
Mewtwo was silent as Arceus rose from his throne and walked forward, Mewtwo I know of a memory that was lost to you. Perhaps it can give you the drive to find what will make you whole.
A memory, lost to me? Mewtwo asked in confusion. Arceus bent forward and the Unown started to glow and wrap themselves around Mewtwo. Mewtwo was whisked away into a world he never knew existed.
zzz-Memory only viewed by Mewtwo and reader-zzz
He suddenly saw it played out before him. A time that had been lost to him. A girl… a Charmander… a Bulbasaur… a Squirtle… He had been… a child at one time. He had been with them and learned from them. Ambertwo. That was her name. She came into Mewtwo's life when he needed someone to care the most and just like that, she had been borne away.
The pokemon faded and only she remained. Mewtwo's eyes both in the past and the present were clouded with tears.
I feel...something... What are…these?
Ambertwo smiled sadly,"They're tears. You're crying."
Crying?
Ambertwo spoke,"My daddy used to tell me a bedtime story, that when Pokémon are sad, and they cry, their tears are filled with life."
I'm so…sad...
Ambertwo frowned, "I have to go."
WHY?
Ambertwo smiled brightly, "I don't know. But it's alright. Thank you for caring about me. And don't cry Mewtwo, you should be happy! You're alive, and life is wonderful…"
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Life is… wonderful…
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Arceus backed away from Mewtwo's form. He was on his knees and silent. Tears fell from his eyes.
"Mewtwo?" Ash asked in concern.
Why… why did she have to go?
Because, if life can be produced and copied like that… then we start to lose sight of how precious life truly is. I feel you were an exception or maybe even-
What? An example!? Something for others to look at and say, "Don't do that." Mewtwo growled. Why me and not her?
She was a frail girl and young child. You were strong of body and mind. You could defend yourself agains the world's evils. Would you have rather me let others who didn't understand scorn, harm, or mock her instead!? Arceus boomed. I knew humans would be devious in some ways simply because they were given both willpower and brilliant minds. I also knew… Arceus calmed, that you could handle it and that someone would show you… How precious life is and how much it should be cherished and… you were, weren't you? By a certain Aura Guardian?
Mewtwo froze and turned to look over his shoulder at Ash who was still looking at him with kindness and slight concern.
So that's what she meant… the tears of pokemon are filled with life… they are filled with aura.
Arceus chuckled, Pokemon have auras that are often overflowing, thus when they are in their greatest mourning, aura floods from them.
"Aura… Is... is that why I was turned to stone instead of-" Ash asked calmly.
Ceasing to exist entirely? Yes it is. Your aura flared out against the energies of Mew and Mewtwo's blasts. It is a mechanism within Guardians that is meant to honor their bodies and prevent them from being completely destroyed or desecrated. It also happened to aid in your, um… I guess rebirth, though technically your aura hadn't faded from your body yet.
Ash nodded and remained silent.
"Whoa so Ash can't get blown up!?" Barry suddenly shouted.
Everyone flinched and then chuckled nervously or sweat dropped.
Yes that is technically the case though it wouldn't prevent his death.
"What about pokemon tears, does that happen every time?" Iris asked politely.
No. Only during a time of great disaster and those that have been brought back once by the tears can't be brought back again the same way. Thus Ash can't be brought back by tears again. Such a small blessing was something I needed to limit, since life and death are a must in the balance.
Everyone seemed to understand and nodded.
Arceus turned back to Mewtwo, Take some time. Do as your sister has suggested and see if you can find the other that was made like you and finally, form an appreciation for the life you've been given.
Arceus turned to look over everyone. It is time you left. You have much left to do.
Alrighty, bye bye daddy! Mew chirped and flew over to Ash's pokemon. Her eyes glowed green and soon they all vanished.
The two Deoxys from before approached and bowed swiftly to the group.
Mewtwo turned to leave himself, Goodbye Ash, friends. I'm certain we will see each other again. And… thank you. He was gone afterwards through teleportation.
Ash looked over his ancestors and smiled sadly as they smiled back and each faded away. Everyone started to follow the two Deoxys out to where a portal was waiting, when Ash stopped and turned to face Arceus again, "What happened to my father?"
Arceus' face fell slightly, All I can tell you is that several years ago an aliment of his returned with vigor and was slowly eating away his aura. He sensed a unbalance in Kalos and went there to quell it. You will find the rest of your answers there. I cannot aid you further than that.
Ash let out a breath and nodded, "Goodbye Arceus."
"Goodbye." Everyone mumbled out together.
Farewell brave ones.
The group then left through the large doors of the Hall of Origin and walked behind the Deoxys. In moments, they were leaving this strange realm behind and returning to Sinnoh through the portal from whence they came.
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The group appeared on Spear Pillar once more. After collecting themselves, they travelled down the mount and towards Hearthrome. They were all tired since they had practically not slept through the night. The stars were fading when they caught sight of Hearthrome and started to make their way there.
As they walked through the city looking to find a somewhat backwater place to stay, for Ash's sake, they all had many thoughts on their minds. Ash couldn't help but notice how pokemon he passed on the street seemed to cock their heads at him or even nod his way. It wasn't really noticeable to anyone unless you were looking, but Ash noticed. Arceus had been truthful, the pokemon really did recognize him in a new way.
Ash felt a familiar pretense approaching and turned to see them walk up behind Gary as he stared at his pokenav.
The person's hands went around Gary's eyes, "Guess who!"
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A couple things I'd like to talk about in the AN today!
(1st)Manga stuff:
Okay I have made a decision to try and tie more of the manga world into the anime world. I of course, as I did before, I know how messed up that can be, however; I started really working with the numbers (and some necessary guesses and creative licenses[like Brock's dad and some other things like slightly different names or doubles. {Johanna, Charon, etc.}]) and found that there aren't quite as many problems as I originally thought and I've found reasons for most every inconsistency I've run across. This however is coming from someone that's only read the Red and Blue adventures and Yellow's adventures (and parts of the rest/bulbapedia, etc.) Mostly this note is just to say to have patience with me :) For the list on the Unova Arc (when that starts) I will most likely be adding the characters that have been mentioned as well as their ages(that I've approximated) Anywho I hope you appreciate the work I've done (IT WAS HARD AND TIME CONSUMING TO FIGURE OUT ALL THE STUFF I HAVE AND THE NUMBERS AND AGES AAGLDHSKFLJK! XD ) and have patience with whatever issues or slightly weird reasoning(like Brock's dad's name game[He's my new scapegoat]) that comes up.
(2nd)Ash's Knighting:
DO NOT WORRY! Pokemon will NOT be like bowing down to Ash or refusing to fight him, etc. He hasn't suddenly become a king or god among men, lol. The pokemon simply are now aware instinctually that he's a Guardian under Arceus' rule. They will show him varying degrees of respect, but will continue to obey their trainers and wild pokemon will still attack if angered. It's kind like a normal person acting around their boss or something. Your supposed to be nice, but the person is still human and not everyone will agree etc. Okay sorry for the rambling, do you get what I'm trying to say? :3
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Answers to some questions:
Latenightreading: First off, I REALLY LOVE YOUR STORY! Well done! I'm glad to see you constantly update! It's always disappointing when authors stop writing good fanfics! I hope leaf makes a major appearance later in the story and maybe plays a big part? Also i assume she would've recieved the bulbasaur at the beginning of their journey but who got the charmander and what happened to them (In your opinion)?
NoSignal:Yes Leaf shall appear in the next chapter and will be a somewhat important character.(Not as much as the first or second group, but still important/All the trainers(co-ordinators, etc) have a sense of loyalty among each other[Most of them]) As for your second question, I have two different theories. The first is that Leaf took Bulbasaur and Joey took Charmander. Joey really started enjoying his Ratatta and traded Charmander to Damien. The second theory I have is that Leaf got Bulbasaur and Charmander was given to a random trainer that we've never seen. I prefer the second theory because a traded pokemon would be less likely to be so loyal to someone like Damien even if it was only temporary. Also I believe the Bulbasaur and Squirtle Ash eventually got were abandoned before Ash's group left Pallet and are a different batch of starters. And that is my two cents :D Also Welcome to the Master Challenge and I'm so so so glad you're enjoying the story ^^
Katz4: Did she appear in the story previously?(Leaf)
NoSignal: Yes she did, but only briefly while the groups were in Rota
solotoon1321: I remember a few chapters ago you said that anyone can learn to use aura but it takes a long time , do you think any of the group will try to learn ?
NoSignal: Anyone can learn to use aura whom has a strong enough spirit, but they can only ever have one aura link. Ash is special because he is related to one of Arceus' chosen knights from long long long ago, so he can have four and become an Aura Master. And yes for normal people it takes a long time. As for anyone else in the group learning, most likely not. At most they may in the far future(After Master Challenge) be able to better sense the feelings and condition of the pokemon and people closest to them(kinda like a gut feeling) And each of their first pokemon, or the pokemon they are closest to, will always have a strong bond. None of them will actively pursue the arts of aura however. Much like Ash used to feel, that's not their dream. Though like Arceus said... there will be people who may gain power after the prophecy is over(Can't say more than that though).
P.S. I will most likely try to fit in something that plays off of Ash and Ritchie looking so much alike. XD
(Please do ask questions if you didn't understand what I was talking about in the AN above(Manga/Knighting stuff)
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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: Luxray/(Shedinja)/Cranidos/Hippopotas(male)/Ralts(male)
Misty: Tentacool/Buizel
Ritchie: Gible/Sneasel
Gary: Dratini
Brock: Anorith/Magnemite
May: Shinx(female)
Max: Egg/Croagunk
Paul: Stunky
Dawn: Glameow
Cilan: Turtwig(female)/Snover
Cress: Bidoof/Barboach
Chili: Magby
Iris: Cranidos
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Serena: Starly(female)/Hippopotas(female)
Clemont: Rotom
Harley: Glalie
Solidad: Abra
Zoey: Houndour(female)
Barry: Munchlax
Kanny: Mothim
Nando: Azurill(sing)
Stephan: Heracross(female)
Bianca: Cherubi
Cameron: Skorupi
Trip: Rhyhorn
Georgia: Prinplup
Burgundy: Yanma
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
NoSignal, out!