Hinata: *squeaks at seeing somebody get punched out from the bedroom by a writer with a bad headache* Eek!

Itachi: Um, was that...? O_o

Naruto: Meowth? Yep.

Pikachu: Baka, you turned the light on didn't you teme?

Meowth: *seeing stars* Yes.

Itachi: *notices* And you went after her pocky and mochi!? Have you no shame? *pales* T_T

Naruto: *pales at seeing Itachi beat Meowth senseless* R-remind me not to get between Itachi and Aria when it comes to sweets...

Hinata: *sweatdrops* H-hai. On with the next chapter!

Chapter 13
Steady As Steel

~.~.~

The gang had finally made some headway towards Eterna City. They would most likely be there in a few days' time. They had stopped in a forest along the way for a break and for some last minute training for the Eterna City Gym and Hearthorm City contest. Ash, Dawn, and Brock had let out the other pokemon to introduce the newest member to the group: Itachi.

Naruto noted from the emotions he was sensing that the sea weasel pokemon was not used to all this attention as Itachi crossed his arms. "Now that I think about it, didn't Itachi use to always rest his arm in that coat? But he can't really do that now he's a buizel."thought the ghost fox pokemon in curiosity. Hinata in turn had be surprised just as much as Naruto had been. A feud had broken out caused by Piplup yet again not taking kindly to Itachi's blunt, yet sharp words.

"Piplup how many times do I have to say it? Don't let Itachi get under your skin."sighed Naruto, his long ears drooping in annoyance.

"Hmph, but he's always so mean!"grumbled Piplup.

"No he's not. Itachi's actually a good guy, Piplup."barked Naruto as he lazed comfortably in a floating bed of will-o-whisps.

"Hm, could have fooled me."huffed the water penguin pokemon.

"Just w-watch, you might l-learn something."chirped Hinata as she snuggled up to Naruto, her tail wrapping protectively around him.

"They're right Piplup, just watch you might learn something."noted Pikachu as he got comfortable as well to watch Ash and Turtwig vs Dawn and Itachi.

The battle started and Ash and Turtwig were of course in perfect sync; no surprise there as Turtwig fired off a razor leaf. Ash, Brock, and Dawn along with their pokemon had made a stop for some last minute training. Naruto was calmly observing the match between Itachi and Turtwig. Itachi had recently been captured by Dawn. No surprise, Itachi was holding his own extremely well against Turtwig despite the type advantage Turtwig had over him.

But there was a problem: Itachi's ignoring Dawn's orders.

"No Buizel I said to use water gun didn't I?"scolded Dawn. Itachi simply grunted and looked away.

"Dawn's right but that aqua jet was really powerful anyways."noted Brock.

"Why do you think Itachi's not listening?"asked Pikachu.

"If I had to guess it's his pride."said Naruto as they watched the battle continue.

Yes his memories were scattered like broken glass but the pieces and shards he remembered of Itachi was of a stoic, proud, and honorable man. Pride was a big problem within the Uchiha Clan; it was in a lot of clans. But in turn it made those like Itachi and Hinata passionate. He respected that. but it made him wonder...why would a former AMBU shinobi like Itachi that was so loyal he'd even commit genocide to his own kin for the sake of the leaf disobey an order? As much as Naruto and Hinata knew, pokemon and trainer acted very much like a shinobi squad. It was very much puzzling; did Itachi not see Dawn as his squad leader?

The match continued on with Itachi doing as he deemed fit as a veteran fighter. While Turtwig did great following Ash's commands but was lured right into Itachi's trap, receiving a vicious close range sonic boom. Rendering poor Turtwig unable to continue.

"That was a sonic boom attack at close range. Buizel took that attack just to get in there."gasped Brock in worry and astonishment.

Naruto wasn't shocked; it was a basic and typical shinobi tactic; a risky one but it was effective. He couldn't count all the times he'd done it, not even with all four sets of toes and tails. But from his horrible math skills it was a lot.

"Turtwig you alright?"asked Ash in worry.

"You ok Turtwig?"asked Pikachu with equel concern as he scampered over.

"Ugh my head..."Turtwig quickly passed out then and there.

"Itachi I think you went overboard."noted Naruto as he went over and hovered beside the sea weasel pokemon. Said pokemon said nothing, stoic as always as he looked away.

"Huh, Turtwig!?"gasped the bluette, "That was way too much Buizel!"

"Hmph."Dawn was really getting upset by her newest pokemon's behavior. "Oh yeah!?"

"I'm pretty sure there is a pokemon center up ahead so lets hurry over there Ash."Brock was quick to suggest.

Naruto casually floated over to perch himself onto Ash's shoulder as Brock pointed out frankly that Dawn might not be quite ready to handle Itachi, which she was fast to dismiss due to her own pride. Naruto's tail jewels for the first time turned a shade of violet; huh weird. But Naruto could just feel the pride and annoyance rolling off Dawn and Itachi. Was that why? But Naruto did agree about one thing Brock had said: Dawn was not ready nor understood the former Uchiha missing-nin.

Ash and the gang arrived at the pokemon center within an hour's walk from where they had stopped to eat. Naruto, though normally nocturnal cause of his ghost typing was casually floating as he looked on in concern as Ash gave Turtwig's ball to Nurse Joy. Joy happily took Turtwig in her gentle hands. Naruto and the others watched yet again Brock got up in the poor nurse's face with his tacky pickup lines. "He's almost as bad as Pervy Sage..."thought Naruto, as his eye twitched as Croagunk did a Poison Jab and dragged Brock away.

Itachi though silently looked over at Croagunk and said poison/fighting type glanced back at the water weasel's challenging, studying gaze. "What are you looking at?"spat Itachi.

"What did you say?"croaked Croagunk as he glanced over.

Naruto let out a yelp and swiftly got in between the two pokemon with Dawn, "Enough you two! Itachi there's no need to pick a fight and Croagunk just ignore him alright?"

"Buizel won't you give it a rest!?"protested the bluette.

Both pokemon huffed as Croagunk was the first to back down, being the quiet voice of reason that he was, and dragged his trainer away. Itachi just watched but cause it was Naruto asking he turned away. Naruto wasn't sure what had made Itachi this way in this life in this new world they were both now in. Was it because Itachi's painful past had been washed away when he had reincarnated to this world? Was it because he had missing memories like himself and Hinata? Or was it just because he knew no other way to vent out hidden frustrations? The ghost fox pokemon was not sure but he needed to find a moment to pull the veteran ninja aside so they could talk.

"Do you always have to pick a fight? Can't you be a little more grown up?"scolded Dawn, earning the same reaction from buizel she'd been getting since this morning.

"They're never gonna understand each other at this rate."mused Pikachu as he joined Naruto.

"Unfortunately, it's a matter of earning his respect. It's not something Itachi is known to give away like the perfect bowl of ramen."mused Naruto.

Naruto's ears perked as his orbs started to glow as he sensed a rather mature, wise, and brotherly sort of aura from very nearby. His interest peaked he followed it while the others had gone off, not noticing Naruto had wandered off. He was a pokemon on mission and it did not take him long to find the source of the powerful aura. It was a tall, well dressed man in his 20's with neck length light blue slightly curly hair and glasses. He looked like a prim and proper gentlemen as he leaned there against the wall reading his book. Had he been listening in on Naruto's group this entire time? Carefully and curiously he landed on the man's shoulder, earning his attention as he closed the book.

"Oh? Well aren't you an interesting one, hello there."greeted the man as he reached up to scratch Naruto behind his long ears.

Oh that was the sweet spot, causing Naruto to lean into the touch and purr. Naruto could just feel the wisdom and experience this man had and there was not a speck of ill will. It made him feel safe and intrigued. Actually, he kind felt like Iruka-sensei sort of. He had that brotherly sort of teacher kind of feel to the former Hokage...and it felt soothing.

"Now aren't you a friendly one. You sensed me here didn't you?"the man asked, earning tail wags from Naruto.

The man smiled, "Well then lets see if we can take you back to your trainer, shall we? I bet he's very worried about where you went."

"Sure."yipped the ghost fox pokemon as the man grabbed him to hold him in his arms.

The man calmly petted Naruto, who's tails wagged softly as he purred. He could tell this young pokemon was very well looked after just by how shiny and soft the ghost/fire type's pelt was. The little vulpine's fur felt like the finest satin and those jewels had a healthy sheen to them. It seem to still have a tiny bit of hatchling down to the fur, signaling this pokemon's age probably being just a couple months at least. It was clear whoever the trainer of this Whispup was, the trainer loved it dearly. "Cynthia and Flint would just adore seeing this little guy."the man thought in amusement.

The man still holding a content Naruto in his arms soon walked into the lounge area of the center to see Ash, Brock, & Dawn with Pikachu and Buizel watching the Champion League match on the tv. The trio had gone into the lounge area as a start to look for Naruto, only to get side tracked. Naruto simply yawned, revealing sharp fangs; he was not surprised but he was interested from what he could catch from the sounds from the tv as the trio admired the match.

"That wasn't that great."corrected the man as he came over.

The group looked over to see the man holding one very happy and purring Whispup in his arms in surprise and relief. "See, I'm still learning. That match taught me a lot."

"Whispup! There you are, we've been looking for you."stated Ash happily.

"Is this pokemon your's young man?"he asked, Ash nodded.

"Yes, thank you for bringing him to me. Whispup tends to like wandering off."thanked Ash as the man handed him Whispup with care. The others though were still recovering from the shock of seeing the same man that had been on tv now standing before them.

"You're most welcome. That Whispup is very well cared for, be proud of that."praised the the gentleman. Ash couldn't help but blush at the praise, grinning ear to ear.

"You're Lucian of the Elite Four?"the trio stated together.

Lucian gave a kind smile, but Naruto looked confused. Just what were the Elite Four anyways? His azure gaze turned to Pikachu as did Itachi's. "Pikachu, talk, you look like you found a bottle of ketchup the size of a boulder."barked Naruto.

"The Elite Four are a region's most elite, strongest trainers and their pokemon partners. Not many get the honor to meet them in person let alone fight one. They actually are held in very high esteem and hold a lot of influence in the region they are from, Naruto. The only one with more authority and power is the champion and above that the humans' government itself."Pikachu explained, trying to relay every he learned from his travels with Ash and his time with Professor Oak.

Naruto's jaw instantly fell to the floor even further and Itachi's eyes grow wide. So if they were understanding correctly The Elite Four were like the village council or sannin while the champion was pretty much like the kage. No wonder Naruto felt so much power in that man, Lucian's aura. Years, and years of countless pokemon battles had molded that man. Itachi could feel it too but not to the degree Naruto did by auras. Lucian had a an air of authority and experience to him that sent the sea weasel's fur bristling in excitement and awe.

"Right, hello."greeted Lucian.

While the gang introduced themselves outside, Team Rocket was watching from their hiding spot outside as usual. No doubt up to no good, But Naruto's orbs glowed that usual sinister color when he felt ill intentions, causing him to glance out the window. Which in turn made Jessie, James, and Meowth hide from his piercing gaze that flashed blood red. Naruto could see their auras; those idiots, didn't they know by now there was no hiding from him? Naruto sighed and decided to ignore the...annoyances for now.

The group casually sat down to some tea and snacks on the table. Naruto had gone back to curl up on Lucian's lap, contently being petted by the psychic type specialist as he lightly slept. His ear flicking on occasion as he listened on Lucian, Ash, Brock, and Dawn's conversation.

"So it's true you have to win your home region's league before you can take part in the champion league correct?"asked Brock.

"Right. If you're from Hoenn then you must win the Hoenn League or Johto the Johto League. Which brings us to the Sinnoh League, a monumental task of course but necessary to challenge us."informed Lucian.

"Now that would be a real battle between champions!"Said Ash, clearly excited.

"So you're saying, win here and you can challenge the Elite Four."pointed out Dawn.

Naruto grinned as he groggily opened his eye to glance over after hearing Dawn. "So, win here and you face the elite of the elite. If I'm right then that includes their versian of the Hokage. That's interesting, you know."he thought before going back to his light dozing.

"Hm, that's right. You see the Sinnoh Elite Four is made up of your's truly, who specializes in psychic pokemon. Aaron, who specializes in bug pokemon. Bertha, a ground type pokemon specialist and Flint, who's great at fire types like your Whispup here. And residing at the top is Cynthia, master of the champion league. But if you wish to challenge her you must first defeat all four of us, the Elite Four."explained Lucian.

"So Cynthia's at the very top."sighed Dawn in amazement.

Ash though was clearly very excited as was Itachi, which instantly caught Naruto's attention as he yawned and stretched his limbs. By Itachi's enthusiasm Naruto could just see the fire and respect in the former Uchiha's eyes, asking to spar with Lucian. He reminded Naruto of Sasuke...would Itachi had been like this if he hadn't been traumatized by the war? Naruto thought it likely. But eh, then again, Itachi used to be an Uchiha. That clan had always been quick to look for worthy sparing partners and a bit of a pride problem. But from what little events he could remember Naruto knew that's what helped them become strong.

Dawn though was trying to scold Itachi, who again, refused to listen to reason. But Lucian smiled at the eager water type. The bluette gentleman knew what Buizel wanted..a battle. And it was a request the psychic type specialist was more then happy to accept. Naruto honestly would have jumped at the chance to battle Lucian as well but his mind flew back to the gym match he had lost control in...and bit Ash. It left him still with a bitter taste in his mouth and left him shying from any battles lately. Lucian must have noticed this, thus his refusal to battle Ash.

The group had gone outside and Naruto had made himself comfortable on his favorite spot perched on his trainer's shoulder with Pikachu on the other one. Lucian stood on one side of the field with Dawn and Itachi at the other.

"Do you mind telling us which pokemon you're gonna use Lucian?"asked Ash.

"I'll show you a pokemon that's a fitting match."Lucian brought out one of his pokeballs from his belt and tossed it, "Alright, Bronzong."

"A Bronzong?"gasped Dawn.

Naruto grew wide eyed at the strange floating bell-like pokemon before them. What the heck was that pokemon!? It looked like one of those huge tower bells in temples or churches. Ash and Pikachu were just as stunned as Ash whipped out his pokedex, "Lets see."

Bronzong, the Bronze Bell Pokémon.
One slept for over 2,000 years, until it was accidentally awakened at a construction site.

Naruto's jaw dropped at the dex entry he heard. How in holy ramen could a living creature live for so long and took a 2000 year nap no less!? Like damn! What other crazy shit existed in this world if there were creatures like this Bronzeong that defied logic? It made his head spin honestly as thinking was not his biggest strength.

"Let's get this started, shall we?"grinned Itachi with anticipation.

"Now use Aqua Jet!"ordered Dawn.

The water type though had other ideas and unleashed a water gun at Bronzong. Bronzong responded to Lucian's own order and used Iron Defense, making next to no effect from the attack. In fact Naruto swore it must have felt like no more then a bath from the look on Itachi's face. "This isn't gonna end well if Itachi and Dawn can't get in sync."he sighed.

"I'm afraid you're right, Naruto. Neither of them understand each other at all."agreed Pikachu as they watched the match.

Unfortunately Naruto's hunch was correct as the pattern of Itachi refusing to listen to Dawn continued. Using attacks on Bronzong the water weasel deemed fit, not what Dawn ordered. Bronzong then unleashed a gyro ball that came in fast and hard at Itachi who tried to counter it instead of dodging it like Dawn wanted. Naruto and Pikachu winced at the impact...Itachi was so gonna feel THAT one later as the water type was sent flying. Itachi shook it off and got back to his paws, impressing the elite four, Lucian for his tenacity.

"Amazing Buizel took a diret hit from that Gyro Ball and still got back up."praised Lucian, "Alright Bronzong, time for Flash Cannon."

"Flash Cannon!?"squeaked Dawn in dismay.

Naruto yelped at the just the name of the attack and made great haste to scurry into Ash's backpack, much to his trainer's concern and surprise. But Ash soon found out why Whispup had been so fast to go and hide in the darkness as Bronzong unleashed a blinding blast of energy at buizel who again had refused to dodge. It resulted in a direct hit that sent poor Itachi flying right into the trunk of a tree near by.

"Is the attack gone?"Naruto nervously peaked out from the bag.

"It's ok Whispup, you can come out."Ash urged gently.

Naruto slowly creeped out to float by Ash and looked over and down at Itachi who for a brief moment was struggling to get up, only to collapse and pass out. Naruto sighed; the battle was over.

"I'm terribly sorry, I must have gotten carried away by Buizel's fighting spirit. Please take Buizel to see Nurse Joy."apologized Lucian, looking truly remorseful and it showed by the odd color in Naruto's gems too.

"Don't worry, we will."said Dawn.

"Until we meet again."Lcian bow before he and Bronzong went on their way.

Naruto though could not take his eyes off his friend and senior in ninja terms. He knew this loss would surely effect him like it had Sasuke back when Naruto was little. But first thing's first they had to take care of those wounds.

They took Buizel inside the center and Nurse Joy worked her magic and Itachi came to. But while the others were delighted to see him alright, Naruto knew there was still damage as he watched his friend get off the stretcher and walked away. Itachi's pride had been wounded...he had no doubt about that. Naruto and Pikachu looked at each other and nodded in silent agreement before they went over the the water type.

"Hey, it's alright Itachi we all loose some times."squeaked Pikachu.

Itachi looked over with a rather melancholy look briefly before turning away.

"Itachi, talk to us. What changed? what little memories I have of you..you were normally very calm and tried to avoid needless conflict, you know."urged Naruto.

Itachi's pelt bristled as he flinched at Naruto's comment. Darn that boy for his ability to sense emotions so easily and being more prespetive then others thought he could be. Now that he thought about it..w-when had he changed? His pride hurt from the loss, yes but he had been very frustrated and confused and conflicted since he had hatched from his egg years ago into this world. He remembered very little of his past life as a ninja prodigy turn rogue. He only could recall the the happier memories and key memories from his teen years like the Kyubi no Kitsune's attack, his baby brother's birth, his friends, and his girlfriend. But he knew Naruto was right as he turned his gaze to Naruto while yet again Brock tried to flirt with Joy only to be dragged away by Croagunk again.

"I do not know Lord Naruto. I-I am remorse to say I remember very little of my past...and I guess the stress of not knowing and then humans kept coming after me at the river. They wouldn't leave me be."Itachi sighed.

"Look kiddo, don't be so hard on yourself."croaked Croagunk before dragging his trainer away and earning a brief look from Itachi.

"So you took it out aggressively?"questioned Pikachu, earning a nod from the sea weasel.

Itachi looked so depressed and Naruto didn't like it so he was all for it when Ash suggested they go back outside. And outside they went without delay. They tried everything to try and boost his spirits as Naruto sat by his friend.

"Hello everyone,"Naruto's ears perked at the familiar voice.

"Lucian!"yapped Naruto as he ran over and jumped into the Elite Four's surprised arms, nuzzling him.

"Good to see you too Whispup."Lucian petted Naruto behind the ears earning a purr, "I thought I might find you here."

"Hey Lucian."Greeted Ash.

"Look there,"said Dawn, turning towards where her buizel was sitting solemnly. "Buizel hasn't been the same since loosing our battle."

"Then it's time, and a very important time too."stated Lucian, earning a nod of agreement from Ash's whispup in his arms. "Buizel is standing at a crossroads and needs to make a choice. The choice of what exactly what to do with defeat. Buizel can continue loving to battle like before or not."

Dawn looked over at her newly caught partner with concern, unsure what to say or do with this information Lucian gave her. Naruto, being the sore looser he was knew all too well what Lucian spoke of. Heck the former hokage was the ultimate knucklehead sore looser. But Naruto quickly jumped into action and jumped in to force Itachi out of the way only to get captured in that basted cage himself.

"Whispup!"

"Naruto!"

"Lord Naruto!"

"For the love of sanity not you loosers again!"growled Naruto as he bit and clawed at the cage.

The trainers down below looked at Team Rocket in dismay and fury as the trio did their motto.

"Normally I'd be quite upset with people like you,"Lucian then smile slyly as he glanced over at the furious Buizel. "But I'm not."

"Hang on Whispup, I'll save you!"growled Ash.

"Me too!"agreed Dawn.

"Now hold on you two,"the duo looked at Lucian as he pointed out the furious Buizel."This might just be the chance Buizel's been waiting for. Why not let buizel handle this?"

Ash and Dawn instantly understood and Dawn looked at Buizel as she went over.

"You want to save Whispup don't you?"Itachi nodded determinedly at Dawn's question. "Then you need to listen, we're a team you and I Buizel. Let's work together to save Whispup."

Buizel remained silent for what seemed to be aged but was actually just under a minute before replying, "Alright, give me my orders Dawn. Let's save Lord Naruto."

"Alright lets do this!"said Dawn in determination, "Buizel use Sonic Boom at full blast at the cage!"

Itachi nodded and raced forward and jumped as high as he could and unleashed a fury of the strongest Sonic Boom he could muster. And it worked as the cage shattered, resulting in Naruto to fall as said ghost type wailed before being caught and set down by Itachi.

"Phew, thanks Itachi."the sea weasel gave a nod before turning his attention back to a flustered Team Rocket.

"You! You will pay dearly for what you did."Itachi growled.

Naruto watched as single pawed Itachi had sent Team Rocket and their pokemon blasting off with very little issues with Lucian at his command with Dawn's permission. Naruto realized fast Lucian was doing this to teach Dawn that every pokemon had their own unique style of combat and it was up to the trainer to learn and refine it. Naruto knew Itachi was no different. To the gang's surprise Itachi asked Lucian to another match.

This time went better and Itachi and Dawn were actually in sync but in the end Lucian cut the battle short and returned Bronzong. It confused the gang, even Naruto as to why. But it became clear as to why: Lucian wanted to see how the two battle together this time. With some praise and a few parting words the gang bid Lucian farewell. Naruto looked down at his friend with his classic cheeky smile and Itachi with his more softer one.

Itachi and Dawn had both learned an invaluable lesson.

One they wouldn't be forgetting in a hurry.

To Be Continued...

A/N: A Very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New year everyone. It has been a difficult year for me for writing just cause of writer's block and I just got a new kitten that demands all my attention. But I love my new fur baby so much. Not to mention I also adopted a bearded dragon, which is a learning curve in itself but I love it. The next chapter is gonna be a fun one I look forward to writing as we finally arrive in Eterna City. Actually it's a very important one for Naruto, but not the way you think.

As for Itachi this chapter being rather ooc in areas, chop that up to his reincarnation amnesia and stress(nice Arceus, you naughty deity pokemon). That and it's 1 in morning shit, I pulled an all nighter for this...oops. *cough* Anyways the episodes I'll be covering in the next few chapters I 100% know at this time I'm covering for the fanfic are these...

-The Secret Sphere of Influence

-Ash vs Gardenia

-One big Happiny Family(important for both Hinata & Brock)

-Top Down Training