And now I present to you the Cinnabar Island Arc. Dark force number two will strike our amourshipping couple at the end of this arc. It will be mostly a fun arc and like the Fuchsia Arc, it will end on an intense note.

Here Ash and Serena will meet with some familiar faces, Serena will have a chance to punch her ticket into the Grand Festival, and of course Ash will have his heated battle with Blaine.

Sit back and enjoy what Cinnabar Island has to offer. I also don't own Pokémon!


Flashback-17 years ago

Throughout the past year, Giovanni has taken the time to study business ethics and obtain money through vicious acts of his Pokémon. He didn't go to school as he managed to obtain books to help him learn. Giovanni thought of it as school, only without the classroom and an old guy blabbing stuff.

Those books would teach him how to help recruit people into his group, knowing how to fairly pay his workers while saving money for resources, striking deals that would seem fair to his workers, and to help him create the key positions.

Giovanni also continued to seek more Pokémon that proved to be powerful. During that time, his Meowth evolved into a blood lusting Persian. While his Persian proven to be a strong addition to his group, there was one other Pokémon that may have proven to be more power and would somewhat take over Persian as his number one. A Rhyhorn.

Giovanni knew this Rhyhorn's power was grand and that it had the potential to become even stronger increasing his chances of getting Mew once it was found. It would even evolve into a Rhydon which proved to be unbeatable. Aside from that Rhydon, he also got a male and female Nidoran which evolved into Nidorino and Nidorina, a Diglett which became a Dugtrio, and a whole bunch of other Pokémon proven to be powerful. None would top his Meowth or his Rhydon.

With the help of his knowledge he has gained and the abilities of showcasing his Pokémon's horribly high power, Giovanni was able to recruit many more Pokémon trainers to join his group. He promised them great things would happen once they joined them.

Giovanni had his groups scout the areas for great minds that were going aiming for science and engineering. That is when they discovered an underappreciated scientist by the name of Lawrence Namba who was expelled from the Kanto Institute for illegal tests on Pokémon that proved to be abusive. After hearing about what has happened at the institute, Giovanni figured that Namba would be a great addition to the group and he could get payback on those who defied him, just like how the people in Pallet Town defied him. Namba would become the head of the Team Rocket science team and he would be able to recruit many more scientists to follow him.

Professor Namba was definitely a great asset has he and his team would create contraptions in locating Pokémon and to help with further criminal activity to help add to Team Rocket's funds. They have yet to create anything successful in finding Mew.

While Giovanni had a great asset in science, he also needed more assets in leadership in which he needed to find minds who were poised more into getting the job done rather than creating mechanics. Giovanni knew he couldn't just hire them, they needed to prove that they could run missions as well.

"Who could I bring in to help me rise further up?" Giovanni asked himself.

He did some scouting on all of the rockets that have shown their strengths. One of the men he had with him proves to show so much promise as he was highly intelligent. The man had teal hair. He went by the name Archer. Then there was another rocket with light green hair who showed cruelty to his teammates. He went by the name Proton. Then there was one more rocket with purple hair who was deemed creepy with his hunch back but has proven to be smart and sneaky. His name was Petrel.

Giovanni took the time to take a closer look at those rockets. They have proven to have abilities to be leaders. Giovanni may be in charge, but he needed more leaders to add to his power.

"I wonder," Giovanni mused.


The Next Day

Giovanni decided to call in those three rockets and speak with them. The first one he spoke with was Petrel. Petrel took a seat in front of his boss and Giovanni had his hands folded while he was sitting at his desk.

"Now Petrel, remind me of all of your achievements for when you worked for me," Giovanni told Petrel.

"There is so much of me to be fond of Giovanni. I'm good at leading an undercover ambush as those Pokémon trainers don't see when I'm coming. They either had to give in to me or join me," Petrel said.

"That's excellent and knowing that you have that ugly hunch will have everyone think you're no good. That's what brings value to this organization," Giovanni said.

While Petrel was pleased with what Giovanni said as if it were a complement, somewhere deep down it almost felt like an insult as well thinking no one would ever like him because of how he looks with that hunch on his back. Still, he had no one who look past that and just accepted the fact that he works for criminals.


30 minutes later

Next, Giovanni brought in Proton. While he was cruel to everyone, he remained professional towards his boss. At least he knows when it comes to his boss that he has to be at his best.

"Alright Proton let me hear what you've done for me," Giovanni told Proton.

"As you have known, all of the rockets fear me. I'm cruel, I'm sadistic, and I show no mercy. If you considered raising me to a leader, then I can whip all of our men into shape, and the weak bastards can pretty much die," Proton told Giovanni.

Giovanni gave an evil smirk when he heard that. Proton has proven that not just in the interview, but throughout his tenure with Team Rocket. One rocket was showing weakness during a mission and he had his Rhydon Horn Drill that rocket to death.

"Tell me more," Giovanni said as his hands were folded.


30 minutes later

Then came in the last person he wanted to interview. This was Archer who has proven to excel among all of the other rockets. Giovanni has shown fond interest in Archer ever since he joined the organization. Proton has proven to be a good candidate for a promotion, so Archer needed to do his best in this interview.

"Archer, I've seen so much promise in you. Is there a good reason I can approve you as a top leader for Team Rocket?" Giovanni said professionally to Archer.

"I believe there is. I've been one of your first followers since you founded Team Rocket, I have acceptingly strong and scary Pokémon that even I fear, and I always look for an angle whenever it comes to our missions. After all, I've been studying potential places of where Mew could be," Archer stated.

"And I greatly respect that," Giovanni said as he continued, "To be honest Archer, I've seen you as my favorite. You always are on top of things and figuring out ideas to help us achieve further into our missions. While my leadership has furthered this organization, your actions have proven to have much of a big impact as well."

"What do you mean?" Archer asked.

"Archer not only am I only to promote you, but I'm also considering making you my right-hand man. You will be a second-highest ranking leader to Team Rocket behind only me," Giovanni said.

"You really mean that" Archer said in shock.

"Precisely," Giovanni answered.

"Sir, I promise I will not bring shame to this position," Archer said giving a salute.

"Thank you," Giovanni said.

Giovanni has now completed the head to head questioning interviews. All he had to do was evaluate their Pokémon in a mock battle and he would give those rockets the positions they desire. It was no doubt that they would get the jobs with Archer having only behind Giovanni in power.

There was still one more thing Giovanni needed in order to make this organization feel complete. It was something that probably no one in this organization could provide and he may have to look outside of Team Rocket to obtain that.

All Giovanni needed now was an heir.

End Flashback


Out at Sea

Ash and Serena continue to ride on their Pokémon across the water. They've left Seafoam Island about fifteen minutes ago and should be arriving at Cinnabar Island anytime now. Rotom Dex has used its map feature to keep them on track so they didn't drift off course.

"Ash look!" Serena called out as she pointed to something.

There was appeared to be a volcano out in the distance. Once they got closer, they could see plenty of buildings along the island. If Rotom Dex's calculations were correct, then this must've meant that Cinnabar Island was in sight.

"That must be Cinnabar Island," Ash replied.

"Let me check my calculations," Rotom Dex replied as it analyzed the land and coordinates, "Positive, that is Cinnabar Island!"

So Cinnabar Island was just up ahead. From what they've heard about the island, it is supposed to be a tourist trap. This island is filled with tourists all year around without rest. If people want to vacation there, they likely will have to make their reservations about a month before planning to leave…or maybe two.

Alongside the Pokémon Gym and Contest Hall, Leaf also mentioned that a world-famous Pokémon lab was located on the island. Ash looked at his backpack and remembered that he and Serena picked up fossils back at Mt. Moon a while back with Leaf.

"You know Serena, we do have those fossils we got back on Mt. Moon," Ash reminded Serena.

Serena turned around and looked at her backpack. She can remember the Helix Fossil she got back at Mt. Moon after their confrontation with Team Rocket.

"That's right," Serena replied.

"So I was thinking while were here, we can visit the Pokémon Lab Leaf mentioned and get those fossils revived," Ash suggested.

"That sounds like a great idea," Serena replied with a smile.

If Serena can recall, her Helix Fossil would become an Omanyte. So along with the hopes of completing her ribbon set for the Grand Festival, she would be getting a fossil Pokémon as well. She ca also recall that Ash got himself an Old Amber which meant he would wind up getting an Aerodactyl. They would have an eventful time on Cinnabar Island.


Cinnabar Island

Ash and Serena hopped off their Pokémon along the shoreline and returned them and thanked them for carrying them across. Pikachu jumped off of Serena's shoulder and felt the smooth sand. Munchlax was picking up the sand and watching it fall out of his stubby hands like water.

"Take it easy Munchlax, we'll have plenty of time to play on the beach once I beat the Cinnabar Gym leader," Ash told Munchlax.

"Did somebody say Cinnabar Gym leader," a deep calm voice called out.

Ash and Serena looked around trying to figure out where that voice came from. Then right in front of them, they saw a man dressed in all red and had long blonde hair like a rock star. He also wore sunglasses.

"Um yeah, I did," Ash replied as he walked up to the man.

"So that means you plan to challenge Blaine," the man responded.

"That's right!" Ash declared.

"Sorry, but Blaine doesn't just challenge any Pokémon trainer," the man stated.

"What," Ash said in confusion.

Everyone else was looking at the man in confusion. Did he say that the gym leader won't face any Pokémon trainer?

"What do you mean, he won't face any Pokémon trainer?" Serena asked.

"You see, Cinnabar Island is a tourist destination for normal civilians and Pokémon trainers. Every year people come from all over to enjoy our beaches and shops, and most importantly our hot springs. While Pokémon trainers are here, they tend to run into the Cinnabar Island Pokémon Gym and fight the gym leader," the man explained.

It was no surprise that trainers would come here and fight the gym leader. If Ash could recall, Gary may have beaten this gym already, and Paul already showed a badge to prove that he passed the Cinnabar Gym too.

"So where is the gym?" Ash asked.

"I'll give you a riddle," the man stated, "Where do people put their glasses?"

"In front of their eyes," Rotom Dex answered.

The man looked at Rotom Dex who gave the answer. He looked intrigued wondering what that was and that it gave the answer.

"The floating TV got it right," the man answered.

Knowing what the answer to that riddle meant, Ash looks forward and sees a destroyed building. This must've been where the Cinnabar Gym was located. Was this really the gym?

"That's the Cinnabar Gym?" Ash questioned in shock.

"That is correct," the man answered.

"What happened to the gym?" Serena asked, "It's completely destroyed."

The man hung his head recalling what has happened over the years. It had to be rough for the gym leader and his Pokémon.

"The island has been overrun with tourists and that meant the gym leader Blaine had too many vacationing Pokémon trainers come and storm into his gym. He and his Pokémon never caught a break and then one day, he had enough and abandoned the place," the man told Ash and Serena.

Ash and Serena couldn't argue with that. The fact that a lot of hobby vacationing Pokémon trainers tend to come to this gym and face Blaine. The poor man must've gotten tired of all these hobby trainers and ran off. For a tourist place like Cinnabar Island, it shouldn't surprise them.

"So where is Blaine?" Ash asked.

"He has relocated himself and his gym to another part of the island. This time he will keep the location of the gym a secret and only accept trainers who prove themselves worthy," the man explained.

"Well I can prove myself worthy. I'm not one of those vacationing trainers," Ash stated opening his jacket, "I have six badges right here."

The man looked at his badges. He knew they were legitimate Pokémon League badges. The man had a stern look on his face and crossed his arms.

"Sorry mister, but the number of badges don't prove that you're worthy to challenge Blaine," the man said.

Ash stood there in shock. Apparently his badges weren't going to be enough to get him a gym battle. When Munchlax heard that, he clenched his fists in anger. Even though he never met this Blaine guy, he deems that Ash isn't worthy. Munchlax is thinking to himself, how dare he think of Ash like that.

"Munchlax," Munchlax muttered in anger.

"Take it easy Munchlax," Ash said looking at Munchlax.

Munchlax took a deep breath. He just didn't like the fact that a gym leader would unknowingly look down on Ash like that.

"So what would I have to do to prove to Blaine that I can be a worthy opponent?" Ash asked.

"Well you can't just show badges or say stuff, the best thing you can do is prove yourself how worthy you are of challenging Blaine while on this island. If you do that, Blaine might be able to catch on and give you a challenge," the man answered.

"I see," Ash confirmed.

This was going to be a test for Ash as he had two challenges. The first challenge was to earn himself a gym battle with the gym leader, and then the gym battle itself. Before Ash could plan his battle, he needs to get the opportunity to face the gym leader first.

"Well I'll have plenty of time on this island to show how great of a trainer I am to Blaine," Ash told the man as he then gestured his thumb towards Serena, "Besides, I'm going to be here for my girlfriend's contest."

The man then had his eyes on the girl. It was hard to know what the looks on his eyes were with those sunglasses.

"You're going to be competing in the contest in two days?" the man asked.

"You bet I am," Serena answered as she reached into her backpack and presented her ribbon case.

Serena opened up her ribbon case and showed him her four ribbons. They were well polished, and Serena hoped to gain her final one while she was here.

"So you got four ribbons," the man said.

"That's right, and I'm going to win my final one in two days," Serena declared.

"Well then, I hope for the best for you," the man replied as he pulled out a card, "Since you two are going to be here for a while, let me give you something."

Ash was handed a card by the mysterious man. It was a card for a place called the Big Riddle Inn. Cinnibar Island had lots of hotels on the count of this was a famous tourist place.

"It's going to be impossible to get a reservation at a hotel so I thought I give you a card to my hotel," the man said, "I don't get many guests so you shouldn't have a hard time getting booked."

"The Big Riddle Inn?" Ash questioned.

"So where is that?" Serena asked.

"I don't think I have any information on such a place," Rotom Dex said in disappointment.

"Not to worry, I can tell you where it is," the man said which got the couple's hopes up until he finished the sentence, "But in the form of a riddle."

Well this was a treat, another riddle. He wouldn't give them directions on where the place was and Rotom Dex couldn't look the place up on its map features.

"If you look near the swings, you will see my hands, or at least see my face," the man stated, "You'll also find the riddle on the back of the card."

Ash turned around to see the back of the card that carried that same riddle. So at least they didn't need to try and memorize it.

"Could you just give us directions?" Serena asked.

And then to their surprise, the man suddenly disappeared. Who was he and how did he know about what the gym leader's arrangements were for gym battles? Was this guy a friend of Blaine's or something.

"Let's just go to the Pokémon Center," Ash suggested as he shrugged his shoulders.


Cinnibar Island-Pokémon Center

Ash and Serena walk into the Pokémon Center, and it was pretty crowded. It appears most of these people were either waiting on their Pokémon or just staying here for the time being. The group walked up to the counter and approached Nurse Joy.

"Excuse me Nurse Joy, could you look after our Pokémon for us?" Ash asked Nurse Joy.

"Why certainly," Nurse Joy answered with a smile.

Ash and Serena unclipped their belts and handed Nurse Joy their Pokeballs.

"Alright guys, all aboard," Ash told Pikachu and Munchlax as they got onto the tray with their Pokeballs.

"Hey Nurse Joy, we want to ask you some questions," Serena stated.

"Why go ahead," Nurse Joy kindly said.

"Alright first question, is it true that the upcoming contest is going to be a double performance?" Serena asked.

"You're absolutely right. All coordinators who are participating in this contest will be required to use two Pokémon at a time. They may switch between the end of appeals and the beginning of the battle rounds," Nurse Joy answered.

Serena now had official confirmation from Nurse Joy. Just as she heard, it will be a double performance. Serena can recall taking part in that kind of contest in Celadon City and winning. Now she is going to be doing that again for her last ribbon.

"Alright now for our next question. I've heard there is a Pokémon lab located on this island. Do you know where that is?" Serena asked.

Nurse Joy gave out a smile. She knew about that lab and the project the scientists have been working on involving reviving extinct Pokémon.

"I'm glad you asked, the lab is right next door to this Pokémon Center. I actually visit that place on a regular basis to see how the Pokémon they research are doing," Nurse Joy answered.

"Did you ever hear about a machine where they hope to revive fossilized Pokémon?" Ash asked.

"Why most certainly. It would be amazing if they actually did bring back a pre-historic Pokémon," Nurse Joy answered while her skin got slightly pale, "It would be a bit terrifying at first, but so many people would be amazed to see an extinct Pokémon in person."

Nurse Joy was looking forward to seeing such Pokémon if the machine proved to work. If she ever were to find out that these Pokémon had diseases that the people of the present never knew about, she and the other Pokémon doctors could research into that and hope to find potential vaccines.

"Anything else you like to ask?" Nurse Joy ask.

It wasn't a pleasant idea to ask Nurse Joy this question. While Ash probably wouldn't be able to receive a challenge from the gym leader, maybe Nurse Joy knew where the gym was so Ash can at least know where it is when he can finally challenge him.

"Do you know where the Cinnibar Island Gym is?" Ash asked.

"I'm sorry to tell you this, but the gym leader Blaine specifically told me not to tell trainers where his gym is located. I don't even know where he is running his gym," Nurse Joy sadly answered, "Besides, if you did somehow stumble upon his gym on accident, Blaine would not grant you a gym battle."

"I see," Ash sighed.

Well it was worth a shot for Ash to at least try to gain information on where the gym was. He knew it was a fire-type gym and that the leader's name was Blaine, but that was it.

"Well thanks anyway," Ash said as one more thing came up on his mind, "By the way do you happen to have any rooms available?"

"Sorry to tell you this, but we're completely booked. I have no rooms available at least until after the contest," Nurse Joy sadly answered.

"Okay, that's all we need to ask you," Serena kindly said.

"Alright, I'll look after your Pokémon. Hopefully, this shouldn't take long," Nurse Joy said as she walked out with their Pokémon, Pikachu, and Munchlax.

As they watched Nurse Joy walk off with their Pokémon, Ash and Serena look around to see all of the people in the Pokémon Center. Looks like they may have to look for a place to crash, and that was going to be difficult.

"So when are we going to the lab?" Rotom Dex asked.

"After we get our Pokémon back from Nurse Joy," Ash answered.

"Did someone say lab?" a voice questioned.

Ash and Serena were looking around as they heard that voice. It sounded awfully familiar as it consisted of a bubbly tone. They knew that voice anywhere. Then their eyes finally widened when they saw her.

Leaf was standing there with her hands behind her back smiling at Ash and Serena. It's been a long time since they last encountered each other. It was back in Saffron City and she and Daisy travelled with them to Lavender Town where they took on Team Rocket together. Except for Leaf who stayed and played with a Pokémon at Mr. Fuji's house.

"Leaf!" Ash and Serena squealed.

"Hi guys!" Leaf cheered as she gave them both a bone crushing hug.

Leaf was so happy to see Ash and Serena again. Hell, she was always happy when she sees any of her friends. Ash and Serena gasped for air, and then she finally stopped hugging letting them catch their breath.

"Man, you sure are a hugger," Ash chuckled.

"I know," Leaf mentioned as she rubbed the back of her head.

"So what brings you here to Cinnibar Island?" Serena asked.

"Don't you guys remember back at Mt. Moon, we all got ourselves some Pokémon fossils and that there was a machine on Cinnibar Island being worked on to bring those Pokémon to life?" Leaf questioned with a smirk and her hands on her hips.

"Yeah, I remember that" Ash answered.

"Well Professor Oak heard that the machine is ready and they're awaiting for fossils to be brought over," Leaf stated.

"Yeah we know about the machine," Serena said, "So that means it's ready?"

"That's right, which is why I came here," Leaf answered as she pulled out her Dome Fossil.

"We didn't forget ours," said Serena as she and Ash pulled their fossils out.

Serena was holding her Helix Fossil in her hands while Ash held his Old Amber. It was going to be cool that the three of them were on the verge of getting a prehistoric Pokémon. All of them could only imagine the looks on everyone's face when they see they have an extinct Pokémon with them.

"That's great, we can go together!" Leaf exclaimed.


20 minutes later

While they were at the Pokémon Center waiting for their Pokémon, they talked about what they've been doing since their last meeting. Leaf talks about how she has seen many more Pokémon and that she returned home to Pallet Town after nearly filling her Pokedex. She stayed at home and visited the lab until word got out that the machine was ready so she could go and take her fossil over.

Ash and Serena talked about their recent travels since Lavender Town. Along with the additional gym badges and ribbons, they talked about the Pokémon they caught along with their trip to the Safari Zone, Serena taking part in the Princess Day festivities, helping resolve the rival gym situation at Dark City where Blue even showed up, and being gifted Keystones from Professor Sycamore himself.

They did not talk about their encounters with Team Rocket and how they got kidnapped in Fuchsia City by them presenting them to their leaders, and they also did not talk about their encounters with the legendary Pokémon Articuno and Zapdos. They would love to mention those Pokémon to Leaf, but Ash and Serena want to protect their privacy.

They did talk about their terrifying run in with the Pokémon murderer Siegfried and how Frogadier and Braixen evolved into Greninja and Delphox to fight the evil murderer and killed him. Speaking of Greninja and Delphox, Ash and Serena decided not to mention about their Battle Bond abilities because it involved dangerous situations they didn't want to talk about. They kept out the part of them being killed by a corrupted ranger, but they did mentioned how Ash adopted Munchlax after his dad was killed. Leaf squealed and adored the Big Eater Pokémon when she first saw him and showed sympathy as well. She knew that what Munchlax is dealing with was similar to what Cubone dealt with. She was so happy that Ash was taking the same actions with Munchlax as Daisy did with Cubone.

Speaking of the younger Oak twin, Leaf has mentioned that Daisy has been taking very great care of the orphaned Cubone. He has been a bit sad at times, but Daisy has proved him all the love she can give. She also spoke of Gary who, as Ash expected, got all seven badges and is just waiting to get into the Viridian Gym. Gary has still been a complete showoff to everyone and has even mentioned how he beat Ash and proved that he was a complete loser. Leaf told them that she and Daisy were not fond of that at all and hoped Gary got a wake-up call soon.

"So Gary is still acting like a complete jerk," Ash muttered.

"Yeah, but he did show some gratitude towards his sister on how she beat that high-ranking Team Rocket executive and adopted Cubone," said Leaf.

"Maybe there is some good in Gary after all," Serena said.

"I know deep down behind all of that ego, there is a genuine good person within Gary, and Daisy knows it too," Leaf stated, "Maybe the respect he showed towards Daisy after hearing all of that proved it."

"I wish he proved it against me. When I lost to him, he just boasted that he was the best rather than give me credit for a good battle," Ash sighed.

"You know something Ash, maybe he'll come around once he hears about how you handled Siegfried and taking care of an orphaned Pokémon yourself," Leaf smiled.

"He might just say that I'm just copying his sister to cover up the fact that I'm a loser," Ash muttered.

"You're not a loser Ash. Trust me if Gary we're to see what you've done, he would start to gain some respect for you," Leaf reassured Ash.

Leaf made a good point, maybe Ash would need to show Gary how good of a Pokémon trainer he is by having him see it. When Ash had his battle with Gary he just kept making excuses like his Growlithe just held back and Eevee's paralysis being a lucky accident. Ash did feel a little better when Serena went on a tirade on Gary after the battle to defend him.

Maybe Gary should've watched his Pokémon fight off Siegfried or deal with his Team Rocket encounters, especially when he and Serena stood up against their bosses.

"I think you're right, hopefully a time will come that Gary sees what I've accomplished," Ash muttered as something came up to him, "Speaking of accomplishments, did Gary ever tell you how he managed to get himself a gym battle against Blaine?"

"Daisy told me about it Ash. Gary said to her that he got a gym battle because he is the greatest Pokémon trainer in the history of existence," Leaf jokingly said as they both laughed, "But seriously, it's because he is the son of Blue Oak."

So there was his answer right there. Gary got in because Blue was his father. Something tells Ash that he could do the same with his father's status of being the previous champion of Kanto, but he didn't want to somewhat copy his rival.

If Ash wanted to prove that he was a worthy challenger for the Cinnibar Gym, then he would find out his own way. Also, he didn't want to live off his father's name. Even though he has agreed to put his dislike for him to the side for Munchlax's sake, he still has those sour feelings for him for leaving him and his mom five years ago.

"You'll figure out how you can prove to Cinnibar Island that you're a great trainer Ash," Serena told Ash.

"I know I will Serena," Ash smiled as he turned to Leaf.

"Attention Ash Ketchum and Serena Gabena, your Pokémon are ready to be picked up," the PA announced.

"Well let's get our Pokémon and visit that lab," Ash said.

All three got up from their seats as Ash and Serena went over to retrieve their Pokémon, Pikachu, and Munchlax.


Cinnibar Island-Pokémon Lab

With Leaf now on their side, Ash and Serena made their way to the Pokémon Lab. They left as soon as Nurse Joy gave them their Pokémon back. The lab was a big white building with a Pokeball symbol in front. They all looked at the building in curiosity.

"So I take it this must be the Pokémon Lab we've heard about," Ash said.

"I believe so," Leaf replied.

"Well let's check it out," Serena stuttered.

The group walked into the lab and took a look around. There were white walls and a cream tile floor with a desk and a few plants and a couple of pictures of pre-historic Pokémon. This must be the lobby.

"Hello there, may I help you?" the woman at the desk asked.

"Yes, we were told that there was a machine that could revive Pokémon, and me and my friends have some fossils we like to donate," Serena politely told the woman.

"Why certainly, I'll let them know," the woman replied.

She picked up the phone and called the other room. The phone picked up on the other end and the woman was telling them about the group of Pokémon trainers and how they had fossils with them. Ash, Serena, and Leaf pulled out their fossils to present to the scientists once they arrived.

"Okay, someone should be on their way right now," the woman said.

"Thank you," Serena replied giving a bow.

However in no time flat, a man emerged from one of the hallways and appeared in the lobby. He appeared to be in his mid-twenties, he had short brown hair, wore glasses, wore a lab coat, and black rain boots.

"Someone told me that there were fossils to be donated!" the man frantically screamed.

The group was completely startled causing Pikachu to fall backwards off of Ash's shoulder and onto the floor in surprise and disbelief. Munchlax stumbled on his foot but regained his footing.

"Sorry about that, I was just so excited to hear that donations were being made," said the man, "My name is Seymour and I'm one of the scientists here."

The group regained their composure as Pikachu got back up on his feet. Everyone in the group was now pulling out their fossils.

"It's okay, you were just excited to be getting some fossils so you can try out the machine," Ash told Seymour as he got out his fossil.

"Well I'm glad you understand," Seymour said as he observed the fossils, "By the way, how did you get those fossils?"

"We found them a while back on Mt. Moon. Team Rocket was trying to take them, but they eventually got away with them," Leaf answered solemnly, "Luckily they dropped three of them and we each took one to bring here whenever the time came."

"Are you talking about the criminal group Team Rocket who commit horrible deeds with Pokémon?" Seymour asked.

"Yeah, the same group," Leaf uttered.

Seymour and the other scientists did hear about Team Rocket's expedition on Mt. Moon as they were trying to seize all of the fossils for themselves. Someone reported that to the police, and chances are it may have been Leaf who told them.

While he was going to take the fossils from Ash, Serena, and Leaf, he wasn't sure yet if he was going to let them keep them after knowing Team Rocket took most of them for themselves. If they were to show up to their doorsteps with fossils, they would contact help and make sure that they don't get their Pokémon. He already had an episode with those pirates killing Lapras's family, and this lab didn't want any more trouble coming to the island.

"Well you kids were fortunate to get those fossils away from those horrible people," Seymour praised.

"Thanks," Ash said as he took a glance at his fossil, "I can't wait to be the proud owner of an Aerodactyl."

"Hold on!" Seymour exclaimed waving his hands.

This drew Ash's attention as he looked at the scientist. Seymour had a serious expression on his face regarding the situation with the fossils.

"While it's generous of you to donate fossils, I can't just let you have pre-historic Pokémon just like that," Seymour said as he snapped his fingers.

The kids were hanging their heads down. They give them these fossils only to know that they won't be able to keep them. Not only did they lose something cool, but possibly lost Professor Oak a chance to do research on these Pokémon.

"We…can't…keep them?" Ash questioned in shock.

"But we were looking forward to having these Pokémon," Leaf muttered.

"I didn't say you kids can't have these revitalized Pokémon; I'm just saying that I can't just give them to you because you gave me fossils. You kids would have to prove that you're worthy of these Pokémon," Seymour explained, "Nothing personal, I just don't know how these Pokémon could react when they are revived, and I don't want them going to the wrong people."

This was actually an interesting predicament. If they were going to actually have extinct Pokémon as their friends, then they need to show proof that the lab would be willing to part ways with those Pokémon and give them to these kids. It was the same scenario for Ash as he needed to get himself a chance to face Blaine.

Ash was disappointed that he came all this way to give his fossil only not to get the Pokémon in return. Since Ash was going to be on this island for some time, he could find ways to show that he is a legitimate Pokémon trainer. Maybe Serena could prove herself in her upcoming Pokémon contest. As for Leaf, maybe she could find a good scenario while on this island.

"I understand, but if we don't get these Pokémon, can we at least check them out?" Ash asked.

"Why most certainly," Seymour answered, "I say this machine will take approximately seventy-two hours to turn all three of these fossils into pre-historic Pokémon. You kids do have the rights to meet them."

"That's so cool thank you!" Serena praised.

"Is there anything we can do to actually go home with these Pokémon?" Leaf asked.

"Like I said, do something to prove you're worthy of those Pokémon," Seymour said.

So there was hope of them getting these Pokémon, but there would be some work to do in order to obtain these Pokémon.

"Now run along so we can get started, come back in about three days and I'll introduce you to the Pokémon," Seymour said as he shoved the kids out of the building in a hurry.

Seymour then hurried off back down the hallway as the group was suddenly outside. Pikachu, Munchlax, and Rotom Dex looked dumbfounded.

"Um, thanks again!" Serena called out.


Cinnibar Island

It was over an hour since the group left the lab. They were touring the island in hopes of finding a hotel. Ash and Serena still had the card given to them by the mysterious man about the Big Riddle Inn, but they didn't know where that was.

They may soon have to figure out where that is, because every hotel the group has visited has been booked or overbooked. Leaf couldn't even get herself a room at the Pokémon Center as they were all taken.

"Is there any place we can stay?" Rotom Dex asked.

"I'm afraid it might be impossible," Leaf shrugged, "We've already been to seven different hotels and they've been all booked."

"Well I do have a suggestion," Rotom Dex said as everyone turned to the floating Pokedex, "We could go to an expensive hotel."

"WHAT!" all three exclaimed in union.

"Yeah, think of it. Most of these tourists want to book a hotel at a good price. What if we went to one of those high-priced hotels that people couldn't go to because they're too expensive," Rotom Dex suggested.

"But do we have the money?" Leaf questioned as she impatiently tapped her foot.

"If the three of you combine your funds together, we could score a few nights," Rotom Dex stated.

Rotom Dex made a good point with how they can get into a first-class hotel. However, this would make the group short on cash. They shouldn't be blowing their money off on a few nights at a luxury hotel. That money should be for their supplies, not lodging. The group wasn't sure if that would be a good idea, but it wouldn't hurt to explore the option.

"Let's check it out and then decide," Ash said crossing his arms.


15 minutes later

As expected, they arrived at a first class five-star resort. The place did scream expensive when they saw a lot of fancy trolleys being pushed along with rich people who seemed to be ready to an extended stay.

As they walked inside, the place looked to be nicer than the casino hotel run by Team Rocket. The group approached the front desk to ask about rooms in the hotel. Then to their surprise…

"I'm sorry, but we're all booked for the rest of the week," the clerk sadly said.

"What!" Ash exclaimed.

"How is that possible, this place is expensive! There's no way you guys can be booked like this," Rotom Dex argued.

"Some tourists are desperate to visit this island that they're willing to pay a pretty penny," the clerk said.

They didn't need to worry about that as the hotel was completely booked. They hung their heads down wondering if they'll ever find a place to crash.

"Should we keep looking?" Serena asked.

"We should. I'm so hungry I could eat a Ponyta," Ash moaned.

"Pika," Pikachu moaned.

"Munchlax," Munchlax muttered.

Then a pair of footsteps were approaching the group and tended to get louder. Then the person behind them glared at the group. There was one person in that group that looked completely familiar, and it was the girl in the pink hat.

"You!" the person angrily exclaimed.

The group turned around and saw who's voice that was. Serena's eyes widened as she recognized that person. Knowing that this hotel was for mostly wealthy people, and tourists who could be desperate just to get into this island, Serena should not be surprised this person would stay in such a hotel. It was the Welch girl.

"Amelia," Serena muttered.

The rich girl glared at Serena. She still remembers when she humiliated her at the Fuchsia City Pokémon Contest. It was a battle between Serena's Pinsir and Amelia's Dragonair, and it was Pinsir who came out on top in spectacular fashion. Amelia on the other hand was a sore loser about it.

Serena did not like this girl at all because she pays a Pokémon breeder to train her Pokémon, and she acts like she is above everyone else because she is rich. Amelia keeps treating her like she is at poverty when she is actually middle class.

"So you remember me," Amelia spat.

"Yeah, I beat you for my third ribbon," Serena muttered.

"What happened last time was a fluke. That contest was fixed, and those judges seemed crooked," Amelia ranted, "There is no way a girl who isn't wealthy as I am can beat me."

"No, they were doing their jobs. I was the better coordinator, and me and my Pokémon worked hard together to win that contest," Serena argued.

Leaf stared awkwardly at the confrontation between Serena and Amelia. Ash gave a sigh as he should've known Amelia would act like that.

"You guys know this girl?" Leaf asked as she watched the bickering.

"Yeah, that's Amelia. She thinks that she is better than everyone because her family is rich. She threw a tantrum when Serena beat her in Fuchsia City," Ash whispered as he let out a small chuckle, "And to be honest, it was a beating she needed."

"Wow, spoiled brat," Leaf whispered.

Serena and Amelia continued to bicker until another voice coughed behind Amelia. The brown-haired man Serena saw was familiar to her as well. That was her personal breeder Chad who trains her Pokémon.

"Ms. Amelia, I'm going to get your Pokémon ready," Chad told Amelia.

Amelia turned around and glared at Chad. She was still furious with him after the last contest. She took away his pay and cut his salary in half because she lost. Chad felt like he might be on a short leash.

"Okay," Amelia muttered as she turned back to Serena.

Amelia continued to glare at Serena.

"I have to monitor Chad to make sure that I have a winning contest performance. After losing to you, I needed to make sure he only provides me a win," Amelia spat.

"That doesn't," Serena said until she trailed and stopped, "Never mind. I beat you once, I'll beat you again."

"Not happening. I'm making sure everything is flawless and perfect so no peasants or anyone lower than me can somehow win," Amelia scowled as she stormed off, "Let's go Chad."

Amelia and Chad left the hotel to prepare for the contest. Serena looks onward as she watches the rich girl and Chad walk out. She may some good rivalries within Calem, Shauna, and Miette, but Amelia on the other hand was a handful. She just wished one day she had something come her way to give her a reality check.

"So Ash told me you know that girl," Leaf stated.

"Yeah I do. She kept calling me poor and saying that she is winning all of those contests because of her money," Serena stated as she took a deep breath.

"But you're not…one of those people made of money," Leaf assured.

"And you're right Leaf. I beat her because of my experience, my training, and of course my Pokémon giving it their all," Serena said as she started smiling again, "And you know what, I'm proud of what I've accomplished."

"Good for you Serena. I know you'll beat Amelia again," Ash said giving a thumbs up.

"Of course I will, but I still need to finalize who I'm going to have compete in this contest. After all, it is a double performance," Serena said.

"You'll have all the time during the day and tomorrow to think it over. Right now we need to continue looking for a place to lodge," Rotom Dex said.

"You're right, like I said I'm so hungry I could eat a Ponyta," Ash mumbled as he was feeling hungry again.

Munchlax then tugged on Ash's pant leg. Munchlax was chirping something towards Ash. Ash was brought to his senses and understood what Munchlax was saying.

"We'll see if there's cotton candy Munchlax," Ash sighed, "Let's keep looking."

The group walked out of the hotel to continue looking for a place to stay. As Serena left, she noticed Amelia and Chad walking down the street. It seems Amelia was barking something towards Chad, and he looked like he was cringing.

Serena couldn't help but feel for Chad. He has been getting mistreated by such a brat. Truth to be told, all of those ribbons Amelia has won felt as if they should've gone to him rather than her. Serena didn't even know about the post contest refund and the pay cut. If Serena didn't know any better, it was like he was in a toxic workspace.


3 hours later

Evening came and the group struggled to find a hotel. They did find a nice restaurant to have dinner to help with Ash's stomach, and their own too. Unfortunately, they still needed to find a place to crash for the night. Every hotel on the island was booked.

They didn't want to camp out because there was nowhere to camp. The beaches would close around nighttime and there wasn't any good places to set up camp. The group was at a lost cause where they were going to stay.

Ash, Serena, Leaf, Pikachu, and Munchlax were all sitting on the ground trying to figure out what to do next. Where were they going to go if there was no place to stay?

"Does anyone have any ideas?" Serena asked.

"No," Leaf muttered.

The group was only going to stay a few days. Leaf wanted to get back to Pallet Town as soon as she got her fossil Pokémon. Ash and Serena didn't know how long they would be here since Ash needs to prove himself for a gym battle as that man said.

Speaking of that man, Ash decided to pull out the card he got from him. It was for something called the Big Riddle Inn. The card read If you look near the swings, you will see my hands, or at least see my face. That was the riddle the man gave them.

"Ash, what are you doing?" Rotom Dex asked.

"Oh, I was just looking at this card. We could actually try this Big Riddle Inn," Ash said.

"But we don't know where that is," Rotom Dex stated.

"I know, but the man indicated that this riddle would tell us where it is," Ash confirmed.

It was true, no one knew where that place was. Rotom Dex wasn't even able to locate it on the tracker. Munchlax tugged on Ash's pant leg saying something.

"Munchlax is asking if he could look at the card," Rotom Dex said.

Ash looked down at his pseudo son. He smiled and gave the card to Munchlax. Ash wondered what would Munchlax want that card for.

The Big Eater Pokémon looked at the back of the card and read the riddle. He remembered when they first met that man, he was speaking of some riddles. He gave a riddle of where the gym originally was, and then this riddle indicating where the Big Riddle Inn was.

"This has to be a riddle. The only type of swings I could remember seeing are those swing sets at the park in Fuchsia City and Saffron City. Maybe we should look for a swing set," Munchlax said to himself.

Munchlax then spoke to the group and Rotom Dex translated getting the group to listen in to what Munchlax has to say.

"Munchlax says we should look for a swing set," Rotom Dex stated.

"A swing set?" Serena questioned.

"You mean like those ones at playgrounds?" Leaf questioned.

"I believe so," Rotom Dex answered.

Ash got up and wondered why would we want to find a swing set. Then it hit him. The riddle said if you look near the swings, you can see his hands or his face at least.

"I think Munchlax could be on to something," Ash declared, "Lets look for a swing set."

"Alright," the group said in union.


10 minutes later

The group trekked around looking for a swing set, and then after ten minutes, they finally come across one. Those were swings alright as Munchlax went near them.

"Maybe Munchlax wanted to play," Rotom Dex said in confusion.

Munchlax was now looking around for something. He looked at the clue again to know where he can find hands, or a face. Munchlax looked around and then he noticed something.

A red building stood near the swing set, and a big clock was in front. Munchlax looked at the swings and then back at the clock. Munchlax has seen a couple of clocks at the Pokémon Center, and he knew that clocks had hands. One for minutes and one for hours.

"Munchlax, Munchlax!" Munchlax chanted as he pointed to the red building.

"Munchlax is saying this could be the place," Rotom Dex said.

"Are you sure Munchlax?" Ash asked.

"Munchlax," Munchlax answered.

"Well it wouldn't hurt to go in and check," Serena said.

The group followed Munchlax to the building and the group would go in. Inside, the place looked pretty ordinary, but after taking a closer look, it looked almost like a hotel lobby people would find at those old-fashioned family hotels.

The group was starting to feel a bit more confident that this could be a hotel. Maybe this was the Big Riddle Inn.

"Hello, anyone there!" Ash called.

"I see you solved my riddle," a voice called out.

Ash and Serena recalled hearing that voice. Emerging from the hallway was the same man they encountered when they arrived at Cinnibar Island. This was the man who brought up the Big Riddle Inn.

"Well, it was Munchlax who solved the riddle," Serena happily said.

"Munchlax," Munchlax smiled.

"You guys got a pretty smart Pokémon," the man said.

"Thanks, it's actually mine. I've been taking care of him and he's pretty smart indeed," Ash complemented.

"Pikachu," Pikachu complemented.

"Alright everyone, since you solved my riddle, you two get to stay here for free tonight," the man said.

"Could you, make that three?" Serena asked as she pointed to Leaf.

"Not a problem," the man said, "Now I bet you guys are hungry."

"Well we just ate a little while ago," Ash told the man until he looked at his stomach, "But I definitely have room for seconds."

The girls and Pikachu face palmed while Munchlax let out a small snicker. Ash definitely has one unique stomach. Now that they got a place to crash, Serena can prepare for her contest while they wait for their fossils to come to life. As for Ash's gym battle, he hopes that something happens where Blaine would see him as a worthy opponent.


Team Rocket HQ

As Giovanni and the rest of the rockets have been monitoring Mewtwo, Ariana has been just standing there watching. Once Mewtwo was ready to be brought into action, she could get payback on Ash and Serena, and more importantly those who defied her.

As Ariana watched, she hasn't felt like much of a leader. It's true that all of the rockets do follow her orders, but she has doubts if she was truly a leader, or was Giovanni just using her for his needs. Needless to say, her husband has only cared about himself, and whenever he feels she is needed, it's for sex. Was it the fact Giovanni dearly loved her, or was he just trying to get another heir out of her?

Ever since their son ran off, Giovanni has only felt more determined on this organization rather than his family. If anything, it was Giovanni who found her. When he saw the fire she possess as a Pokémon trainer, he took her in.


Flashback-15 Years Ago

A younger Ariana was out in a storm with all of her Pokémon out. All she had were her Pokémon as there was no one with her. She had no family, she had no friends, and the only thing she wanted from her Pokémon was to get stronger.

Her career as a Pokémon trainer took a major derailment after everyone she cared about turned on her. All of her friends and family had other things to do and figured that those things were more important than her. She had no one.

Ariana was bitter, angry, and started to hate the world. Everyone she has met whom she got along with turned on her as their selfish needs were more important than their friend. Ariana vows that she would get her revenge on those people who've turned on her.

"I will make them all pay," Ariana muttered.

As she forced her Pokémon to toughen out the storm, a black jeep with a roof on top was watching her. There was a man with short brown hair wearing a suit watching how she and her Pokémon were handling the storm.

This man was Giovanni, the head of Team Rocket. Giovanni was watching Ariana and was curious on her skills. The way she made her Pokémon go through torture and toughen it out, the vengeful look on her face.

"Everyone who has turned on me will pay!" Ariana yelled.

Giovanni was caught by surprise by the demeanor of her voice. She had so much venom in that voice. So she was hoping to get back at those who've turned on her. That reminded him so much of Professor Oak when he shunned him for throwing away Bulbasaur, and it was all because Red ratted him out.

Giovanni smiled as he figured her, and that woman have so much in common. Giovanni instructed his driver to approach Ariana, which the driver did. Ariana turned around as saw the lights coming at her. She froze as a Deerling caught in a headlight. What was that car doing here out in the middle of nowhere?

Then as she stood, she saw a man come out with an umbrella being held. Ariana clenched her fists as she looked at the man with curiosity. Giovanni studied the girl, and he couldn't tell how she was with the state of her being drenched. Maybe he needed to analyze this young woman more.

Giovanni approached Ariana as the evil man reached his umbrella out to cover her. Ariana was looking on with confusion. Who was this man? Why was he helping her keep dry?

"I see some potential in you," Giovanni smiled, "Would you like to come with me?"

This stranger even gave her a complement and now offered to go with him. She should know better not to talk to strangers, but here was a man offering to help her out. Then she can recall being tossed aside like the rest of everyone she knew. Would he do the same?

"No thank you," Ariana muttered, "I don't know if I can trust you."

"Having trust issues I see," Giovanni said.

Ariana looked down as she didn't want to talk about any of that. Then she laid her eyes back on Giovanni. He narrowed his eyes as if he had some interest in her.

"I've been backstabbed too many times," Ariana muttered.

"And you would want to make them all pay for what they did to you, am I correct?" Giovanni questioned.

"Yes," Ariana answered darkly.

"If you come with me, I can promise you all of those people who've wronged you will get what's coming their way," Giovanni said.

Ariana wasn't sure if this was a good idea or not, but what does she have to lose. She has no one in her life, her trainer career has been a bust, so she decided to take Giovanni's offer.

As Giovanni sees her head for the car, he wonders if this woman could be another member of Team Rocket that could exceed the ranks, or maybe the person who could give him his heir.

End Flashback


Ariana ended up growing close with Giovanni, marrying him, and having a son together who would become the heir to the organization. However their son wanted nothing to do with Team Rocket, so he ran off and began his own Pokémon journey.

While Giovanni was pissed off that the boy who was supposed to take over has ran off, Ariana was slightly heart broken. While her son wouldn't help her get payback on those who defy her and Team Rocket, deep down she missed him and was glad that he was living his own life.

The only problem was after he left, he cut contact with them and never spoke to them or visited them. Ariana didn't even know if he was alive still, Giovanni couldn't care less as he was a traitor.

During the years she has spent with Giovanni, she has proven to be much of a leader as Giovanni, and even the other rockets knew it. Especially Archer. Archer is the one executive who has the upmost respect for Ariana. Like her, he too was discovered by Giovanni.

"It's beautiful isn't it?" a voice asked.

Ariana turned around to see that it was Archer standing next to her. Ever since her son ran off, she feels as if her connection with Giovanni was questionable which proves when she is near Archer.

"It is," Ariana said with a false smile.

"Is something bothering you?" Archer questioned.

"What's going to happen when Giovanni finds out about us?" Ariana asked.

"What do you mean?" Archer asked.

"I mean, we had our…moments together, and Giovanni doesn't know. He is my husband after all," Ariana said.

Archer can recall those moments she and Ariana have had together. Aside from their usual business discussions, there has been subliminal sweet talk, secretive flirting, and of course when they were alone, making out and possibly minor sexual activity.

"Why do you do those things?" Archer asked.

"Because deep down…I still feel unhappy," Ariana answered, "I always feel like Giovanni would be another one of those people who will shun me."

"Well you've been his wife for well over ten years," Archer stated.

"Yeah, but it took other people I knew a good number of years before they went against me," Ariana muttered, "What if Giovanni is the same? Keeping me all these years and then tossing me to the side."

Archer did understand what Ariana meant. Giovanni does have the tendency to not care about what others think. He praises his men for the good work, but he isn't sure if he feels a connection with him. Something that never came up to his mind. But he still serves Team Rocket as a high-ranking executive and Giovanni's right hand man. Since Ariana would spend the most time with Giovanni, she would be the one to catch on to his terms.

"I'm pretty sure once Mewtwo awakens and takes action, then you'll feel happy again because everyone who went against you will suffer from Mewtwo's horrifying powers," Archer assured.

Well that did do some good for her. At least she gets to watch herself get payback on everyone just like Giovanni is attempting to do. Archer put his hand on Ariana's shoulder and gave what appeared to be a warm smile.

"Not to mention if he does happen to turn against you, I'll remain on your side," Archer told Ariana.

When Ariana felt that gesture, it felt somewhat warm. Archer said he would be on her side, but if Giovanni did no care about her, would that really be true. It would be hard to know as she would think of Archer as another traitor in life.

"Thanks," Ariana said feeling unsure.

This wasn't the time to worry about her relationship, this was the time to act as Mewtwo would soon be ready to come into the world.

Team Rocket was about to make their move.


What's the deal with Ariana lately? She might just be moody, or she could be right. Answers will come soon.

Remember, Leaf got a fossil at Mt. Moon, so I had to have her here to obtain her fossil Pokémon. They will get those Pokémon soon, and those will be the last Pokémon Ash and Serena may get in Kanto, with the exception of Munchlax's official capture.

Amelia is here, and she will be Serena's main opponent in her next contest. Another character was going to show up, but I've put it off till next chapter as it wasn't necessary for this character to be here right now.

Serena's contest is up next and let's hope she gives Amelia a second pounding.

Chapter 67: Double Sensation