TMWolf: Here we go, update time! It's the last main chapter guys! We're finally here! 0w0

Thanks so much to everyone who's read and reviewed and liked it!

20 - Reunions

Two weeks later

Unova, Victory Road

A lot had changed since she left three years ago.

For one, the destruction caused by Team Plasma had been mostly cleared away, although rubble still remained on the road to the Elite-4's new domain. Victory road was much the same, save for parts of the caves where she recognized the ruins of N's castle or changes in paths she didn't remember. She didn't know how the castle had remained here, but it gave her an easy trial to follow, although the ruins soon turned to regular cave floor and then opened up into the mountainous area before reaching the final stretch to the Elite-4's headquarters. Thanks to the information Alder gave her, she knew to divert before reaching the building on high, and instead ventured right, going down a set of stairs to a series of tunnels and more paths to bring her to cave far off from the rest. It was technically off limits to trainers, she knew, having passed by signs serving as warnings to any passerby.

Cassandra was still going to go in, though. She technically had "permission" to do so, and she'd come to Unova for this—among other things. This was one of the first stops she knew she had to do, though. An old friend was waiting for her there; one she couldn't leave alone; one she couldn't let suffer like she had. So, she pressed onward.

The cave was a bit darker than the road itself, although she could see the glow of a dim light in the distance—down below the sharp drop of the ledge on her right. She couldn't see it yet, and imagined there had to be a stairwell somewhere, but she was sure the glow was where the castle had to be, lit by crystals powered seemingly by nothing. She always remembered the marvel that was N's castle, both amazing and terrifying all at the same time. The inside was the epitome of palatial style and grandeur, the tiles all perfect squares of marble in different shades and not a single decoration not the best of the best. It was a palace fit for a King—for N. Ironically, though, she had to admit the castle always felt more like a cage when she chased N through it.

And then it had become a grave.

Memories of that day filled her mind, but she didn't try to push them away this time. She couldn't—not anymore. She'd swore to Leon she would become a better person; to be a stronger person, and to do that, she had to accept all that happened, be it good or bad. Even if hurt, she had to remember, and force herself to keep walking forwards.

She did pause, though, when one of her pokéballs suddenly flared and Zoroark emerged, ears erect and aimed forward. It stretched its body to full height, eyes watching intensely ahead. Cassandra followed his gaze, and gasped.

Not even a hundred feet away she finally saw it; a familiar figure, somewhat obscured by the dark. She could see enough, however, to know it was another Zoroark, and by the way hers was acting, she knew it had to be his brother. N's Zoroark partner. The one that had helped bring them together so long ago—the once small, little dark-furred Zorua, who came bounding up and pounced on his brother. She couldn't help smiling at the memory, or the surprise on N's face when he realized how happy her Pokémon were with her; especially her fire-type. Her friend had once told her he'd never seen a Pokémon love a human as much as her Arcanine had.

Now they were both were gone, and both she and N's Zoroark remained.

The world really could be cruel, although in the end, she knew there was always hope. For her, it was in the form of a small Charmander, who rested peacefully in her pokéball. And for the dark-type Pokémon staring at them intently? Yes, there was still hope. He wouldn't have to suffer alone anymore.

"Zoroark!" she called out, making him flinch. N's Pokémon's ears flickered forward, and for a moment she thought he would come to her and his brother.

Then it turned and ran, and she sighed softly. Her Zoroark whined, ears lowering. She stroked his head gently, giving him a comforting smile.

"Don't worry; he might not recognize you right now. Let's go find him and you can remind him who you are," she chuckled, and her Pokémon nodded. Together, they continued towards the light, eventually happening upon a stairwell that was damaged, but still intact. Sunlight breached from on high, making it easier to see, and down below she could make out the castle better, the glow indeed coming from inside. She had to stop at the top and breathe in deeply; briefly unsure of herself—of doing this. N's body had lay in a pool of blood in there so long ago. She had gone mad and nearly killed Ghetis, and then lost herself to despair. So much had happened, and here she was, back to the place she'd run from. It felt unreal, yet the shaking of her hands was not an illusion, nor the twisting of her gut.

She felt sick, but still she steeled her resolve, and, sparing a long look with her Pokémon, they descended.

The room it led to was littered with rubble and debris, although the black, square tiles of the floor were still in good shape, as was the overall structure. The style was just as she remembered, and the uneasiness she felt only increased. Too many memories kept beating at the walls of her mind, and it was hard to let them in. It was only her promise to Leon and his words and the love she felt for him that kept her sane. Even an ocean away and he was helping her still. It helped bring a small smile to her face before she turned to the only way to go, rubble blocking the other hallway.

She paused in the new room as well, taking in the array of toys and play equipment. There was a basketball court to one side, and a toy road track left incomplete with a bus overturned. A skateboard ramp was towards the back, separating the room, and lively flooring and ornaments littered the place. It was befitting a young child. It was N's room, of course, as a boy. He'd vaguely mentioned such a place once, where he'd befriended Pokémon hurt by people: the place he began to be molded by Ghetis. It resembled a child's paradise, but deep down, she knew it was just part of the prison.

There was no way forward, either. Sighing, she ventured back out to the main area, glancing around. It was Zoroark who found the way first, sniffing at the ground and barking for her to follow. She had missed it before in the dimmed light, but there was a break in the wall siding leading to a secondary, smaller path than went around the main hallway. It, too, was eventually blocked, but Zoroark again found a break in the wall to return to the hallway, though on the opposite side of the broken pillar serving as a blockade. He led her further still to the stairwell on the right that brought them up to the second floor. The hallway here was more damaged, but they were able to safely skirt around until the floor was broken off, curtailing any movement forward. There was an open path to the right, though; the door hanging loosely on one hinge.

"He's in there?" she asked her Pokémon, which stared intently, ears once again forward. The dark-type nodded, turning to look at her instead. She nodded back, clasped his shoulder, and they walked forwards once more. She held her breath when they crossed the threshold, the walkway becoming a thin path that led up to the throne room. Arceus, she remembered this place. The actual seat itself was gone along with the once pristine walls, but she could still see it; Ghetis sitting there and revealing the truth. It made her want to turn and run again, but then she spotted N's Pokémon just ahead, and she quashed the feeling.

The Zoroark stood in the center of the first widened section, sunlight beaming down. She could already guess why. Though it had long since dried and faded, she could still see the pool of red. This was where N had last been before Zekrom took him away. She still didn't know where, and she wasn't sure she wanted to. She was too cowardly for that still, but, at the very least, she had enough courage for this.

"Zoroark," she called again, and the Pokémon looked to her. His shoulders were slumped, ears lowered, and red claws touching the ground. A morose sound came from its mouth, and her dark type rumbled softly as it stepped forward. N's Pokémon tensed, making hers pause and bark in a gentle tone. N's ears flicked, head tilting as he sniffed at the air. He flinched, almost as if struck, but then stood up alert and eyes wide. He made a short bark and then her Zoroark came forward and embraced his brother. The two yipped and howled and bark as they nuzzled their cheeks together. It made Cassandra's heart swell as she came closer, glancing to the sunlight spot.

Indeed, the blood was long gone. Even so, she knelt down and put her hands to the yellow tile, her chest tightening. Her eyes watered soon after, her breathing shaky as she let the memory flow. She wouldn't fight it anymore, and let the images fly across her closed eyelids; the ocean of red; the stains upon a pale face; the light in his eyes fading; his words but weak whispers; the maddening rage that filled her; the thunderous cries of her Pokémon as they fought, fueled by their anger; the fear in Ghetis eyes when she raised his bloody staff; Alder's shouts and vice grip on her hands; her screams as he dragged her away; the emptiness of the chamber and in her chest.

A good man and friend died that day, and he left many who loved him behind. A Zoroark included.

The redhead turned when she felt claws touch her shoulder, and found that very Pokémon there, his gaze much like her own. He crouched down with her, placing the same claws as before beside her hand and let out a short, sad cry. She smiled softly and reached over to stroke his head—just like she remembered N would. It made the Zoroark's eyes shoot up suddenly, widening, and then tears began to shimmer on the edges. She knew that feeling all too well, and so wrapped her arms around the Pokémon. Claws clung to her tight, though not painfully, and N's former Pokémon wailed with sorrow. Cassandra didn't dare let go, nor did his brother, who wrapped his arms around them both.

She didn't know how long he wept or when she began to sob, too, but they stayed that way until, at last, the Zoroark pulled back with a weak, but warm smile, although he still had a few tears left.

She stroked his head again, smiling back, "I miss him, too. Alder told me a Zoroark was here, and I knew it had to be you."

N's Pokémon grinned a little, leaning into her touch as she began to rub behind his ears.

"You can come with us—if you want. We have a place back home for my Pokémon teams. It's a big ranch where you and your brother can stay together and hang out with my teams. I... plan to make a grave for N there, too. Once I go back. I still have some more things to do, but... I'd love to have you with us."

Zoroark looked back down to the ground, quiet for a moment or two, and then looked back to his brother and her. Another silent moment passed, and he nodded. Cassandra chuckled and pulled out a pokéball, which she held out. N's Pokémon understood, and, having been released by his trainer before his passing, tapped the center button with a claw. He was sucked inside, and the ball remained still. The redhead smiled softly as she stood, holding the ball up in her grasp.

"Welcome to the team, Zoroark, she spoke softly, and then looked to the sunlit spot. "And N... don't worry. We'll take good care of him."

She clipped the ball to her belt and, turning to her own Zoroark, stroked his head gently. He looked up at her, eyes warm and comforting.

She chuckled again, "Well, let's go. We have one more friend to reunite with."

Her dark-type just nodded, and they turned and left; the castle soon left far behind and all that remained within.

A few days later

Cassandra paused on the dirt path as she approached the break in the trees. The once thick forests opened into a decently large area, though the town was small over all compared to the bustling cities of Unova on the mainland to the Northeast. She supposed it was to be expected, the town cut off by both a body of water and a small section of mountains from the mainland. It was an area ripe with foliage and Pokémon, and far more peaceful than she expected. Even the wild Pokémon were calm, and the air was crisp and clear and nice. It reminded her of her home in New Bark Town, where things were simple and the population nowhere near that of big cities like Goldenrod or Saffron. Only, here it seemed the population was even less, what with only a handful of homes. There was at least a Pokémon center, though. He team could use a rest after going through Route 20 after docking in Virbank City just to the east—or rather, Charmander could.

Now, the small fire-type rested in her arms, tired after training hard all the way from the city for the last few hours. Cassandra had tentatively started working on nicknames for the Pokémon, "Chari" being one, but maybe "Charla" or "Charia", as it would get confusing when she reunited with Leon and they were both shouting her Pokémon same name. So far nothing felt quite right, but she was still young, and this was only barely their third week together. Even so, the little fire-type had bonded fast to her and was both eager to please and prove their worth against any and every Pokémon she could find—including her own teammates! Her energy was boundless, and the redhead hoped that wouldn't turn into too strong of teenage rebellion once she evolved into a Charmeleon. That, or they could get it out through vigorous training, which was in part why she'd taken so long to reach the little town of Flossey. Her fire-type needed all the work she could get, and good Arceus did she jump at it. She was already strong, though, and Cassandra knew she'd be gushing about her to Leon when she called later.

"Alright little girl time to get you healed up," she chuckled, venturing along the path, and passing by a house and garage. There was another just ahead, lined with a fence. It had a pitch battle ground in the yard, giving her a good guess of who lived there, but she left it be for the Pokémon center further down the road. She noted an old clock tower that looked to have been made a long time ago—even longer than the houses themselves. The park seemed somewhat new just opposite to the tower, and there were very few residents, of which gave her curious glances. They probably didn't get visitors often.

The Nurse Joy was alone in the facility, but more them welcoming and happy to spruce up her Charmander, who was returned to her pokéball. She'd probably pop back out once she woke from her nap, but at least for now she'd stay put.

"By the way, do you happen to know where Alder lives? I came here to pay him an overdue visit," she inquired when her Pokémon were returned.

Nurse Joy gave her a curious look, "Oh, yes. He's the house near the entrance, but on the left as you're leaving. He has the battle pitch on his yard."

"Awesome, thank-you!" she beamed back, and made sure to wave as she left, taking the road back up towards the entrance. As she thought, Alder's house was the one with the fence and pitch. It was a quaint little place, and suited him. He'd never been a boisterous man when it came to material things. The pitch itself looked fairly worn out, the line markers looking in need of re-digging. The dirt was disturbed all over, though, and even looked like there had been a scuffle recently by some scorch marks. She chuckled at that thought, knowing full well that could be both of them doing the same soon.

She paused at his door, inhaling deeply. She knew it was silly, but she was still nervous to see him again, even after going through everything. She knew she had to meet him, though—to reunite with Reshiram. It had been too long, and, really, she'd already found N's Zoroark; this should be no different.

At least she knew she wouldn't run, so all she had left was to move forward.

"Here we go," Cassandra breathed, and knocked on the door.

It took far too long for her sanity, but the door opened, and the familiar face of one former Champion Alder greeted her. He was just as she remembered back in Galar, with tanned skin and vibrant, fire-like hair. His poncho had been set aside somewhere, leaving only his black shirt and typical frayed, tan pants and dark sandals. His trademark grin appeared on his face as soon as she realized who she was, and he bellowed with laughter as he embraced her in a hug that lifted her off the ground.

"At least! You're here! Ah, it is good to see you, Cassandra! And you look good! There is a light about you!" he beamed, clasped both her shoulders when he set her down. "How are you, my friend?"

"Better, as you suspect. A lot better now that I'm here and finally able to deal with things. You and Reshiram are next on my list."

His eyes lit up bright, "Excellent! Your dragon has missed you terribly, you know! Come, you must want to meet them right away!"

"Ah, yeah, I do," she chuckled, and he paused to regard her.

"You are... uncertain?"

"No—I mean... yes? I'm nervous. I basically abandoned them for years. It was hard enough going to N's castle... I mean, I did it. So, I know I can. I just..."

"Feel guilty," Alder finished, and touched her shoulder again, more gently. "I understand... and I know the only way to be free of it, is to face it. Take heart, Cassandra; your fears are for naught. And if you cannot believe in yourself, then have faith in my words. I know, without fail, that Reshiram misses you and wishes to see you."

Cassandra met his gaze for a good long while before sighing and nodded, "Okay. If you think so... it must be true. I'm going to hold you to that, though, Alder."

"Good. Give me a moment. I'll take you to the grove in the back," he replied, turning to grab his poncho and pokéballs, which he slung over his neck.

She raised a brow, "Grove? He's not with you?"

"No—I wouldn't dream of containing such a being in a pokéball. Reshiram has been resting in the Pledge Grove just behind my home. It is a sacred place where many ancient Pokémon made their mark long ago. Most of all, though, it is peaceful. The dragon has waited for you there all these years."

"Then... let's not keep them waiting," Cassandra smiled a little, though her gaze was toward the ground. Alder only spared her a comforting smile of his own and gestured for her to follow him. He skirted to the left, taking them around the side of his house to the tree line, through which a path had been cleared. She still had to duck around some branches and the path was still covered in grass, but the way was obvious even as they approached a thicker patch of the grove that barely let any sunlight through. It wasn't a long stretch, and sunlight beamed down on high again as they stepped into a larger path clearing. Just above the tree line she could make out a massive rock—and a white shape. Her heart skipped a beat and she paused in her step. A cool sweat formed on her brow, and the ground became very interesting.

"Cassandra?" Alder called, having realized she stopped. She swallowed as she lifted her head, a forced smile on her face.

"Sorry, I'm just... not always as strong as I wish I was," she half-laughed, reaching over to grab her wrist. The former Champion smiled gently like he always did and came back to her. Once again, his hand was warm on her shoulder.

"Then it is a good thing you only need a little strength to keep walking forward."

The words struck her, and her smile grew more genuine. Her hand lifted from her wrist to his arm, grasping it back firmly. Alder chuckled, nudging her forward, and she complied. The path was short to the clearing, which opened up into a massive space of untamed grass, a large ring of dirt, two ponds on opposite sides of the circle, and at the back, butted up against the trees, a massive rock worn by the ages. In the heart of it, a deep gash spread around the side and over the top, as if struck countless times. Her eyes trailed upwards and once more, she found the white shape; the shimmering, white feather-like fur of the Pokémon she'd met all those years ago.

"Reshiram," she breathed, and the dragon lifted its head. The sunlight made the white of its body more pristine, but it didn't compare to the sky-blue eyes that opened and turned to meet her own. A deep rumble came from its belly and at the same time Cassandra felt a tug in her chest—one she knew all too well; the same she felt with Suicune and Zacian.

Her Pokémon called to her.

Chosen.

Its voice was soothing and warm, so much so she didn't realize when her eyes had watered. By the time Reshiram flared its wings and glided down to her, landing gently right in front of her, tears began to weld up. It lowered its body and head, coming level with her so their eyes met properly. Again, she felt the tug, only stronger. A longing. Concern. Happiness. Gentleness. Cassandra reached out her hand slowly, holding her breath. She reached through to the pull as well, hoping it would take hold.

Reshiram regarded her hand for her a moment, glanced to her again, and then pressed its snout into her palm. Its fur was warm, and its gentle rumble made its body vibrate, which she felt. She couldn't stop her laugh—or the fall of her tears as she closed the gap and embraced the dragon's head, burying her own into its brow.

I have missed you, Chosen.

"Me, too, Reshiram. I'm sorry I left you. I'm so, so sorry," she sobbed, and the dragon brought its wings around as if to embrace her. It sent a wave of comfort through their bond.

There is nothing to forgive. I know the sorrow you felt. The anger. It was my own as well. I knew you would return.

"Pssh don't tell me you're a psychic type now, too?"

The dragon chuckled, I only know the truth in your heart. You would overcome your pain and return.

"Well, you were right. I finally figured it out, and I'm back. I still have to go home, but I'm back to finish what I started."

And I will stand with you again, and help you realize your truth. Now, and always. Even when you leave this land again.

"Already know I will?" she chuckled, pulling back to stroke his head gently.

Your path is yet still long, and your calling great. I may not be able to go with you all the way, but when you have need me—when you shall call for me, I will always come. You need only remember me in your heart, Chosen.

She smiled, pressing her brow to his again, "Thank-you, Reshiram. I'm honored to have you by my side."

"I take you're both doing well then?" Alder spoke up, earning a laugh from the redhead. She turned so Reshiram's head was settle on her shoulder some, allowing her to stroke its cheek.

"You could say that," she hummed, glancing to the Pokémon. Her attention was stolen away, though, as a pokéball on her hip twitched and let out a flare of light. She knew which one it was without even having to look and laughed as she reached down to pick up her Charmander just as she fully materialized. The dragon looked curiously at her, though seemed to understand something without being told. At least, she didn't get any questions over their bond—only comfort and a sense of sorrow.

"Oh? A Charmander? When did you get one?" the former Champion inquired, coming closer to look at the fire-type. Her young Pokémon made a "char" sound and spat a small puff of flame that made Alder laugh. He teased her with a tap on her nose, making the Pokémon wriggle and cry out happily.

"Leon gave her to me—as a going away gift... and because I needed a fire-type on my team. I try not to think of her as a replacement. She's a lot like Arcanine was when he was a Growlithe."

"Trust me, she won't be and you'll love her just as much. That Leon of yours is a good man."

"Yes, yes he is. I can't wait for him to visit me back home," she chuckled, turning so Reshiram could nuzzle the fire type, which grasped hold of his snout. To her dismay, Charmander even chomped down on Reshiram's nose, but the dragon took it well—she felt only amusement through their bond. "Oh, my Arceus, Charmander!"

Alder laughed, "Ah, quite the spirit that one. So, you intend to go home after this?"

"Almost. I came to Unova right away to settle things. N's Zoroark was first and this was second. I plan to see about the dragon you mentioned, too, and also defeat the Elite-4. There's a lot to do, and then I'll return home and apologize to a lot of people. I owe them a few drinks and dinners, too."

"It's a heavy burden you carry; it will take time to be rid of it all," he spoke softly. It turned into a grin a moment later, "If you need a place to stay while you are busy here, you are welcome to board with me as long as you need. My home is always open to my friends."

"Thanks, Alder. I'll probably stay extra just to spend it with Reshiram, since I doubt you'll be coming with me, huh?" she inquired, looking to the dragon.

I am tied to this land, and it is here I must stay until you have need of me. When you are here, though; I go where you go. You are my Chosen.

"And I'm your partner," she beamed, nuzzling him gently. Charmander, funnily enough, did the same.

"As it should be. Well, since you'll be taking on the Elite-4 I think you're going to need to some more training. It's been some time since you battled with Reshiram, after all, or your Unova team," the older man grinned, hands on his hips. "Not to mention, your Charmander needs more experience to grow into a fine Charmeleon."

Cassandra smirked, raising a brow, "What did you have in mind, Alder?"

"What else?" he smirked back, pulling a pokéball from its clip and tossing it in his hand. "I told you didn't I—you still had to battle me even though I'm no longer Champion."

"So, you did!" she laughed and turned to face him proper. Behind her, Reshiram rose to full height and let out a roar. "So. Here? And now?"

"Here and now. Show me your worth as a trainer, Cassandra; I want to really see why Reshiram chose you above all overs."

Cassandra glanced up to her legendary partner, who met her gaze with its bright, brilliant blue eyes, full of vigor and confidence. They sent as such through the bond, and the redhead couldn't help grinning. The thrill of battle she'd once forgotten surged through her and she set Charmander down. Their eyes met, hers filled with fire, and her Pokémon's wide with awe and curiosity.

"Watch close, little one. You're about to see what Pokémon battling is really all about. And one day, it'll be you out there," she spoke, and the Charmander's eyes grew wider before she nodded and looked to Alder with her trainer.

He stepped back a good space and called forth his Accelgor. The bug-type Pokémon cried out in challenge, crossing its arm over its chest. Reshiram answered, lumbering forward as its tail burst into a fierce flame.

"Come then, Cassandra," he proclaimed, throwing his arms out wide.

"Here I am," the redhead breathed, and for perhaps the first time in years, her doubts and fears were burned away in the light of Reshiram's fire.

One year later...

It was a calm, cool spring day in Johto, and the Ranch was as calm as ever. All around her, Pokémon lounged in their favorite spots. The only unusual ones were her Tyranitar, Pidgeot, and Corviknight, who huddle together in an odd, sweet little group. Her black-armored bird had finally grown a size or two over the years, and now he matched his "father" in size. Tyranitar still doted on the bird, and also his "mother". Even more odd than them, though, was the orange skinned Charizard, affectionately called Chara, that flew overhead before touching down gracefully, always showing off. She'd been having fun with the local Pidgey and Sparrow—terrifying them, of course—but now sauntered over to the water Pokémon swimming in their pond. An unlikely friendship, but she tended to move between all the groups, as strange as that might be. After all, she was the only true fire-type on the Ranch, so she always involved with some group or another.

Cassandra supposed she could or should have gotten another fire Pokémon, but simply put, she didn't need one. Once her Chara had evolved and matured, her power was more than enough to handle any situation requiring a hot flame. She had ended up using Reshiram for longer than she thought while her Pokémon gained experience in Unova, but once she left, all her business finished and the legendary once again in Alder's reliable hands, her Charizard—a Charmeleon then—had taken hold of the position and refused to let go. She was too stubborn and proud to let anyone else take her place, and now she was an indispensable part of the teams.

She was also the youngest, and most all her Pokémon saw her as the "kid" of the group even when she towered over at least half of them. Her personality was that of a child or teen, without doubt; she enjoyed pulling pranks on her friends and playing as much as possible. And yet, in battle she was fierce and refused to lose—her pride as a Charizard wouldn't allow it.

Needless to say, Cassandra adored Chara and couldn't imagine life without her now. That, and she always thought of Galar when she saw her—of the young man she still loved and missed dearly. Though they spoke often over the year and half since she'd left, it wasn't the same as having him next to her, holding his hand, touching his face, tasting his lips. She wanted nothing more than to be with him again, but she was able to subdue her need over the last half year with work from the League and fighting in the Johto Battle Tower, giving her Pokémon good battle experience and keeping them strong. She didn't have anywhere to be just yet, after all, and she had spent the last year seeing to unfinished business and making up time with her friends and family. They had, to her relief, welcomed her back with open arms and she did her best to explain why she left now that she'd finished her matters in Unova. If they understood, she couldn't say, but they were happy to have her with them again and loved her new Pokémon as much as the older ones.

And so, she'd remained in Johto, living more peacefully than she had in a long while. With her family taken care of first, she had worked to make amends with her friends. She'd promised both Lance and Silver visits and saw to it. Sake was plentiful and food when it came to the dragon champion, and when Clair joined in, it was a night to remember as they exchanged stories and laughter at her Ranch. Dinner with Silver had been far more civil, and it was there she finally got to meet his lovely fiancé, Amara. The wedding was still in the works even now, but the redhead knew it would last. She'd never seen anyone make that grumpy man smile at much as his fiancé did.

For all the joy of reunite properly with her friends, she couldn't deny she had the urge to travel again—to some place new. Maybe to Hoenn again or Sinnoh to explore, or perhaps the Aloha region that had recently come of prominence with their League reaching world news. Galar always came to mind, of course, but she knew, in her heart, it wasn't time yet. A certain someone had made a promise, after all, and she intended to wait for him to keep it—or to tell her he had moved on. The thought hurt, and she had to remind herself it was just her own self-doubt talking.

He would never so casually toss her aside. He was the most sincere, loving person she knew, and he would keep his promise.

Still—did he have to take so long?

"Well, hello, my feisty friend," the redhead chuckled as her Charizard flew over, coming right in for some attention—plenty of rubs and scratches along the jaw and neck. She was a glutton, not unlike someone else's Pokémon. Granted, all her Pokémon enjoyed some attention, but her lizard was very needy compared to the rest. The sweetness of youth, she liked to call it.

She paused in her ministrations, though, when her Pokémon suddenly stopped their play and banter, and looked to the forest just beyond the fence. There was a new sense in the air; a new presence—one she knew very well. Charizard rumbled uneasily, still not quite used to the sudden comings and goings of the sanguine legendary, whose blue, shimmering body was like a clear lake on a serene day. The sapphire crystal on its brow glimmered in the sunlight, and its mane flowed majestically behind it like always. Cassandra smiled as she stood and met the Pokémon halfway, the others staying aside to stare reverently.

It was the legendary Suicine, after all. The epitome of serenity and purifier of waters.

"Hey, you. Was starting to think you were angry with me when you only stopped by briefly that one time," she grinned, and the legendary gave her a look, of sorts, with its fearsome, yet gentle red eyes. Not that she was intimidated by them anymore. Rather, she laughed and embraced the legendary, which returned her affection by pressing its snout into her. A cool warmth came over, its soothing aura permeating all around. A small, but meaningful gesture of affection from the legendary creature.

I could never be angry with you, Chosen. There was still unease in your heart when you returned. You needed time. You are at peace now, but I sensed your melancholy, and so I have come, its voice echoed, the sound pleasant like a song. She was touched to hear it, Suicine not one of many words. However, it seems I am not alone. Another like you approaches.

"Another like me?" Cassandra inquired, brows scrunching, but the Pokémon only turned its gaze to the sky. She spun around to look, and her heart skipped a beat. A roar echoed across the brilliant blue.

It was a Charizard.

The redhead only knew one person with a Charizard that would be in this part of Johto. She rushed forward, ignoring the surprised cries of some of her Pokémon. A few had taken note of the incoming flier as well and tensed up, ready to fight off any intruder. Her team from Galar, however, only smiled and sounded off happily. She called for the others to stand down as the new arrival came closer. Her Chara growled in challenge—she was the only Charizard allowed around here, after all, but she, too, was shushed by Cassandra who waited with a fierce anxiousness in her belly.

The new Charizard let out a welcoming roar and landed with a thud. It grinned at Cassandra—and the female Charizard—spurting a friendly flame. Her fire-type rumbled uncertainly, recognizing the gesture, but wholly unaccustomed to it. Chara remained back, still unsure, but her trainer had no hesitation sprinting forward just as the rider descended and launched herself at them. Thankfully, the rider caught her in time, and laughed loudly as they spun.

"Leon!" she cried out, and the rider finally stopped to let her down and slip off his hood and goggles, which had obscured his face. It was her Leon, though his purple hair had been cut shorter, now coming to his shoulders, and his dark beard was thicker. He wore a maroon and black jacket with creamy edges, and white sweats that stood out against black sneakers. It was hardly his usual wear, but she still knew that tanned shade of skin and those loving, golden eyes. He looked a little older, and far more handsome.

"'Cas! I finally found you—and the Ranch!" he laughed more, his voice booming. "I was beginning to the think my GPS was wrong!"

"GPS?"

"Yeah, I figured since I'm pants with directions, I should probably get an actual GPS to find this place! The ship took me to some port city West of here, so I didn't have any idea where to go even with my map!" he grinned.

Cassandra slapped a hand to her face, "Oh my Arceus, you're still hopeless! I'm shocked you got here in one piece!"

To that, his Charizard grunted and snorted, puffing its chest high. The redhead laughed, and then recalled her own Charizard. She took Leon's hand and quickly tugged him over.

"Look! The Charmander you gave me evolved! She's one of my strongest team members now! I call her Chara for short," she beamed, and, realizing she was being praised, the lizard-like Pokémon flared her wings and held her head high. She was a tad smaller than his male, but her personality made up the difference.

Leon whistled, "Dang, she turned out great—and she's still growing! I bet she could show my Charizard a thing or to now!"

"Damn straight. She hasn't lost once! Yours has, though," she smirked, a playful gleam in her eyes.

"Careful now, I'll have you know I managed to beat Gloria, so I took back my loss," he purred, puffing his chest up. He wasn't wearing the Champion attire, though, and he noticed her look. He chuckled, "I decided to not take back the title. Galar's had enough of me, and I had my fill of being its Champion. They need someone new long-term, and she fit the bill. She's happy taking up the role, though, and the crowd loves her. I love it, too—it made it that much easier to finally make my way here."

"As promised," she added, and he nodded.

"As promised... Oh wow! What is that!?" he gasped, spotting the legendary when he started to look around. Of course, she brought him over Suicine. The Pokémon regarded him for a long while, Leon returning the gesture with wide, curious eyes. The legendary beast decided her companion was good enough and touched the hand he held out when it stepped near. She could tell he was about ready to burst with excitement.

"This is Suicine, and they approve of you. They can sense you have a good heart," she grinned, nudging him.

"Zamazenta said the same thing. Guess I'm two-for-two. Oh! By the way, Zacian is doing great! And speaking of—both sent me with gifts!" he beamed, turning to Charizard to unhook two items from the belt hanging around his Pokémon's belly. He had packs to go with it, but the items in question were of very distinct shape. She couldn't help her gasp, already knowing full well what they were even before he unwrapped them.

Zacian's sword, and Zamazenta's shield. Both rusted like before.

"But... why? Don't they need these?"

"Don't worry, they're plenty strong even without them. They insisted I bring them with me. They basically said that... Um... it was something like that should we need them, just call, and they'll come. Or something like that."

"I think Zacian told me something similar before I left. I think it's like... like when we first found them?" she questioned, taking the sword gingerly in her hands. He stepped back to Charizard again, returning the shield and taking off the pack it'd been attached to. His Pokémon shook, happy to be free of the weight.

He nodded as he answered, "Yep. They're looking out for us in their own way."

"They're too good us," she chuckled, and brought the sword to be with its partner.

"She misses ya, you know, as do a lot of people in Galar—actually we need to do a video call so Mom and Hop know we're okay—but Zacian's been enjoying the Battle Tower. Gloria's making sure both her and Zama get to face as many trainers as they want. Hop's taken a stab at it a few times, although he's pretty deep into his professor studies and—."

"Whoa, whoa, slow down, Leon! We have plenty of time for all that. First, let your Pokémon out, alright? I bet they've been cramped in there and must be dying to see their friends again—er wait. Actually, did you get permission to bring them?"

He laughed, "Of course I did! They said I could bring them so long as they stay here at your Ranch and don't mingle with the native species. Come on out guys!"

The Pokémon she'd come to know and love as much as her own appeared in a flash, and she was quick to greet them all. They were overjoyed to see her again, relishing in her pets and rubs as they surrounded her. They shared some of their excitement with Suicine, though they were a bit more subdued, sensing the Pokémon's legendary presence. Her long-time companion took it well enough, though soon bid farewell; they had the lands to see to and ensure all was well now that its trainer was free of her weight. They left with as much grace as they returned, and again their Pokémon watched reverently. As soon as Suicine vanished, though, the new arrivals dispersed to their groups, with only Charizard remaining with its female counterpart. The two conversed, and suddenly hers grew ecstatic—perhaps remembering him from when she was just a Charmander. They exchanged spits of fire and lumbered off to be among themselves. It as a cute sight to see.

"So... this is the real Ranch. Just... wow. It's incredible. So many different Pokémon living in harmony," he breathed, taking it all in slowly. His eyes fell on two markers underneath a tree at the end, and she followed his gaze. She made an "ah" in understanding and motioned for him to follow. It was an ordinary tree, and the markers were simple stone pillars on which writing had been etched. He read the names: Arcanine on one, N on the other. A collar had been set across the one for her Pokémon, a piece of charcoal embedded into the material. The one for her friend carried only a solemn, hopeful message for the future. Flowers had been recently left. Cassandra sighed, leaning her head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her at once.

"I miss Arc every day, and N, too. I never did find his body or Zekrom, despite the rumors Alder told me. The only thing waiting where they thought the dragon went was another, more ancient Pokémon I didn't dare disturb. It didn't feel right to not make N a grave, though, even if I couldn't find him. I considered places in Unova, but... I remembered how he'd always wished for a world where Pokémon lived in harmony, happy together, and I thought—why not the Ranch? I think it's a place he would have liked."

"I would take that bet. I mean, just look at it. All your Pokémon and mine are happy here... and you know Arc is, too, being home," he explained, and she couldn't help tearing up some. He embraced her, letting her sniffle into his chest. She apologized, but he shook his head. "No, don't. They meant the world to you. It's okay to be sad about it."

"I'll always wish I did more, but... at the very least I gave his Zoroark a home," she smiled a little, and turned to motion to the two nearly identical dark-type Pokémon slumbering under another tree not far away. "They're brothers—from the same mother. She died protecting the egg that mine came from, and N somehow came across the other. In a way, those two helped bring us together and helped us get to understand one another. After N died, though... his Zoroark apparently had been wandering around the ruins of his castle. I think he was looking for him, not understanding why his friend was gone. When I went back to Unova, I found him. He had nowhere to go, so I offered him a place here with his brother. He accepted, and, well, all the more reason to make N's grave here, too. They both keep a watchful eye over it."

"You never cease to amaze me, you know that?" he replied softly, though his voice brimmed with pride. He grinned a moment later, "I read in their news you slammed through the Elite Four, too."

"Ha! Yes, I did, actually, so I'm finally an official Unova Champion."

"I knew you could do it," he beamed, and she understood what he meant. She couldn't help blushing, embarrassed by his unwavering confidence in her. For all her determination, she'd still had self-doubts when she returned, but he'd always knew she could do it, hadn't he?

"Thank-you, Leon," she replied, almost at a whisper, taking his hand gingerly. He returned her shyness was a firm grasp, entwining their fingers. She smiled more brightly, "So. How are things in Galar? What else have I missed?"

"Well, the opening ceremony for all the newly repaired gyms for one. It was incredible! We had soooo many Gym Challengers! More trainers managed to make it through than usual, so it's going to be an intense Champion Cup, but there's no way Gloria will lose! So, she's making a great Champion, the Battle Tower is a hit, and... oh! Sonia and I made up finally. It took an actual full year I swear, what with all of us being busy, but we finally started talking again, and we're good."

"That's—good," she finished quickly, hating how jealousy spiked.

He went on, "Hop's one step closer to being a Professor on his own, although I'm not exactly sure what he wants to do—something to help Pokémon, I think? Your friend Silver and his Team Rescue left a bigger impression than I thought, so he might go more on the medical side? He might even make his own team at this rate! Whatever the case, he's just so brilliant and determined! I couldn't be prouder, and Mom is, too! She gushes over him every day I swear. She misses you, by the way! She would always ask about you and when you'd be coming back. She pestered me until I finally said I was visiting. And then, well there's... Oh, right! Galar is doing good! Hammerlocke is back to the way it was. Oh, man, Raihan was sooo excited to unveil his new gym! He posted about it—did you see it?

She nodded, and he laughed, "He was practically crying! It was so great. I wish you could have been there. But, anyways, things are peaceful again. Everyone's finally recovered from the battle and things are going great. I've even been able to go home a lot more to spend time with Mom. She's going to be so happy to see you even just by video call! Oh, I did tell her you promised to come visit—after we finished doing our own traveling."

"'We'? And 'traveling'" she mused, brow raised with a grin.

"Yes. We. And yes, traveling! You think I'd come all this way to just sit around all day? And there's no way I'm going to go traveling on my own! I need someone to help keep me from getting lost! I'm pants with directions, remember?"

"Oh, right, how could I forget!" she guffawed, smacking her forehead lightly.

He grinned, "Exactly. But first I don't suppose we could get something to eat? Charizard and I are starving."

"Oh! Of course. Actually, it's about lunch time now, and my parents were prepping a picnic. They should be here pretty soon."

"That's perfect. I mean, since I've already met your best friend... I should probably meet your parents, right? In person, anyways. Oh! We can do the video call them and have our parents meet!"

She laughed, "Yes to all of that—but first I have to check oooooone last thing."

"Oh?"

"Just a simple question," she grinned, brow quirked. "Tell me again who's the extra super-duper amazing, beautiful woman you're still hopelessly head-over-heels in love with?"

Leon was the one to laugh now, loudly, "Now that's an easy one."

Not waiting for her reply, he released her hand to grab both side of her face and kiss her like he had in the Weald so long ago, only a lot less awkward and a lot surer. She happily kissed back, wrapping her arms around his neck.

They laughed all the way back to the Ranch house, and even long until her parents arrived to meet the infamous "boyfriend" Leon in person and not just through a phone video feed. And just like back then, her mother's squeals could be hear all the way to Cainwood City across the bay.

TMWolf: Just the epilogue remaining with the lovers reunited at long last, happier, healthier, and ready to take on new challenges in life :)