Author's Note:

Here it is, the breather chapter in the league before the big battles. We get interviews again and I get to explore or wrap up some subplots, especially with Johto coming to an end. As for the threat that Granbull's previous trainer shows isn't one like before, she isn't a known criminal but has money and thus influence. We also get some more insight into Giovanni... I wonder if that will go anywhere in a future arc. As for Aerodactyl's battle last chapter, many showed they didn't think Ash should take his decision hard but I wanted to create a correlation to the main anime and how a certain other league goer went and swept all with one Pokémon... if you're unsure who I meant, think back to the Sinnoh league to be precise. I also hint at Serena's outfit for Hoenn, not a full reveal but it's a common outfit she is seen in so if you get the hint, you might already know what it is. Leaf also gets a new outfit, its mainly Green's outfit from the Let's go games but we learn what she'll be doing when our heroes are in Hoenn. We also get a cameo for the Hoenn arc. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin!


Chapter 94: Silver Conference Confrontations

Ash took a deep breath as he stepped forward into the office, Pikachu positioned on his shoulder and Granbull by his side. As they walked in, the office seemed unchanged, with several guards still surrounding him. Despite feeling his mouth dry, he wasn't nervous for the same reason as last time. While he knows what this is about, it's still nerve-wreaking that Mr Goodshow might be taking away Granbull from him.

"Hello Ash, are you ready for the interviews tonight?" he asked.

"Yes, I mean. As ready as I can be," he replied, "sorry but... did you call me for Granbull or-"

"Yes, of course. Let's get down to business," his smile was replace with a stoic frown, "I've been in contact with Granbull's old trainer-"

"Hag," Granbull interjected.

"-what was that?" Mr Goodshow asked.

"I-it doesn't matter," Ash stuttered, realising that referring to her in that manner might be detrimental, "you was saying?"

"Right - so after hearing your side of the story, it was confirmed that you couldn't have feasibly broke in," he explained, "through your encounters with team rocket at Mt. Mortar, the incident at the lake and your gym battle. You didn't have access to one of your Pokémon able to move you quick enough from her estate to those invents within the established time frame."

"So, I'm free, I can keep Granbull and-" Ash jumped up out of his seat.

"Not quite," he motioned for him to sit down, "she is claiming that you could've had assistance. Both your friends Jimmy and Gary were around the area and each had some Pokémon able to help. Jimmy's Gliscor could've theoretically flew you, and same goes for Gary's Skarmory. Or his Dodrio could've ran you."

"But they didn't-" Ash interjected.

"They said as much," Mr Goodshow replied.

"So, you asked them?" he asked.

"I had too, they came up and was implicated in possible criminal acts," Mr Goodshow replied, "and while their combined testimonies will be useful, I'm afraid you're not out of the woods with this investigation."

"But you said there isn't any evidence!" Ash raised his voice.

"There isn't, which is in your favour," Mr Goodshow replied, "but Granbull's previous trainer is very wealth and has a lot of influence. Her army of lawyers could make mountains out of mole hills with this case. Even if you are innocent and that is the end result, your reputation and standing as trainer in regional leagues could be forever tarnished. We need to be patient with this and play it safe."

"Can't I just take a lie detector?" he asked, "that should prove beyond anything that I'm innocent."

"It's not that simple, even the most accurate lie detectors can be tampered with, the most accurate ones I know off max at about ninety-four percent," he explained, "criminal law is done based on beyond reasonable doubt, even if judges refuse to put a number on, six percent is beyond reasonable, which is why we don't put every criminal on trial through a lie detector. Not to mention it being possible to convince yourself of something, so you believe it's the truth."

He nodded in understanding and closed his eyes, letting his head hang low. They slowly opened and he saw the Fairy type looking up at him with big round sad eyes, rubbing her head against his hand. His lips partially flicked up in a smile before they fell back down, and he turned towards the president once more.

"Look Ash, we are making progress with this, but we just need to be patient," Mr Goodshow continued, "the reason I called you here was actually because of the interviews. It could be a good opportunity for you to put your side out there."

"I don't want to announce live on television!" Ash replied, "it's bad enough anyone else thinks I might've stolen Granbull."

"I know this is hard and I didn't mean go out and announce this story on the ten o'clock news," Mr Goodshow sighed, "what I meant was, show your character. The orange league and your interactions with Gyarados proved you to be a good trainer but it's never too late for reminders."

"What do you suggest then?" he asked.

"We're allowing each trainer the chance to take one Pokémon with them into the interview, this would be a perfect opportunity to show of your strong bonds with your team," he explained, "maybe that Togepi you use to carry everywhere or your Dragonair since they are notorious for only picking worthy trainers."

"They've both evolved," Ash pointed out.

"That doesn't matter, those were just a couple examples of who you could take," Mr Goodshow replied, "so what do you think."

Glancing back down, he saw Granbull cooing under his show-off affection. He must've been scratching the top of her head without even realising it, although seeing her express did make him think of something. With a smile growing on his face, he turned back towards the president.

"Why don't I just take Granbull with me?" he asked, turning towards his Fairy Pokémon before receiving an answer, "what do you think?"

"Sounds like fun," she replied, a bright smile over taking her face as she panted, her tongue hanging out.

Despite both being canines, her and Houndoom couldn't be more different in terms of personality. One is a leader and completely serious while the other is playful and energetic, she couldn't stand still for a moment while his Dark Pokémon would stand guard all day if asked to.

"I don't think that's a good idea," Mr Goodshow spoke up, "you've heard the phrase, don't poke a caged Ursaring with a stick?"

He turned away from his fairy type and looked the president in the eye, "maybe but if I can show well, we get on, I dunno, it would show that I only have her best interests at heart."

"I understand the logic, I do," he nodded, "but if they see you flaunting Granbull around... it's like throwing fuel onto the fire."

"Maybe but it's like you said, I'm in trouble with them regardless and no matter what I do, it could provoke them," Ash replied, "at least this way, I can show everyone my side instead of telling a bunch of stories without any evidence

"Your definitely Red Ketchum's kid... he never did anything quietly," Mr Goodshow shook his head, "I can't agree to this plan, but I won't stop you either."

"Thank you," Ash stood up, feeling his hand engulfed by his fairy types paws. He turned around and walked towards the door, opening the handle with his free hand, he prepared to step out but stopped himself and turned back, "you mentioned my dad... can I ask, how did you two know each other?"

"He was the one who got me into this position in the first place, I owe him everything," Mr Goodshow explained, "before your Uncle took over as the Viridian city gym leader, its leader was Giovanni. Little did the league know at the time, but he was the son of the Madam Boss, head of team rocket. To celebrate his ascension to leader, he planned a coup at that year's league. He hand the Indigo plateau on lockdown and planned to expand his empire from there."

"But why?" Ash asked.

"His mother built an enterprise off other people's suffering," Mr Goodshow explained, "combine that with a superiority complex and you get a man who wants to do one better, he wanted a region to follow his command. That siege lasted a couple months. He cut off all train-supplies from Johto and Sinnoh. Remember back in those days only the more secluded regions like Hoenn or Alola had a solid export through ships so the government was running out of options."

"And my dad?" Ash asked.

"He had several run-ins with Rocket before, but this was on a whole different scale," the president continued, "my parents were higher-ups at the league and were held hostage during this time. I knew there codes and since no-one was giving your father a chance to do anything, I took a risk."

"You gave him access to the league?" he guessed.

"Correct, and I don't know how he did it, but he single-handily brought down that new empire Giovanni built for himself," he continued, "while Giovanni himself escaped, several hundred arrests were made and anyone still alive was returned to their homes. Including Madam boss."

"His mother?" Ash asked.

"Right, and despite both Red and myself, as well as all witness testifying that Giovanni was the mastermind behind it, the government wanted someone to pay so they charged her with the orchestrating it," Mr Goodshow continued, "she was the last person issued with capital punishment in any region aligned with the P.L.A."

"Why?" Ash asked.

"When the siege was reviewed in cold cases, it finally came out that Giovanni had orchestrated the entire coup," Mr Goodshow sighed, "there was public outcry that the terrorist who performed this was allowed to run free. The justice system received an overhaul, and they made the change to prove that a changes were being made... and a man hunt for Giovanni began, but he didn't resurface until the Saffron siege."

"So, Giovanni caused his own mother's death?" Ash's mouth dropped at the thought.

"I think it's more than that," Mr Goodshow replied, "I think he deliberately let her get caught, knowing she'd take the fall so he could escape without repercussions. If I was a cynic, I might think he set up the entire thing to remove capital punishment, in case he ever did get caught."

Ash closed his eyes as he tried to imagine what sort of person would be so cold as to set up their own mother. His stomach turned at the thought but after everything else he has seen from the mafia boss; he wouldn't be surprised. Feeling a tug on his hand, he saw Granbull impatiently waiting for them to continue. Closing his eyes, he bid one last goodbye before following the fairy Pokémon out of the office and through the stadium.


Serena stepped out of the optician's office and took a deep breath. Relaxing her composure, she scanned the store seeing an array of glasses filling the aisles with mirrors to see how they look. As she scanned the room, she saw her friend sat on one of the waiting seats. Her Smoochum sat on her lap and enthralled in some sort of conversation. Smiling in their direction, she straightened herself up and walked over.

She saw her friend catch eyes with her as she approached, her ice psychic type was cradled in her arms as she stood up, "you all done?"

"Not quite," Serena shook her head, "I've... got to pick a pair out."

"You mean you need glasses?" Leaf asked.

"Uh huh," she nodded, "my visions not terrible but... it's not what it used to be. So, this is gonna be-"

"There's nothing to worry about, Serena," she encouraged, "it's a perfectly natural thing to need. None of us will think less of you or anything."

"It's not that," she shook her head, taking a deep breath and releasing it in a sigh, "it's just... it's a big change, its different. Having to learn to take care of them, what if I become reliant on them and they break? How do I stop my vision from getting any worst?"

"Of course, you'd worry about all that," she shook her head, "from what I know of glasses, your meant to rely on them. If you couldn't there wouldn't be a point in wearing them. Let's just pick out your pain and you can do the stuff to get your specs with your needed specs."

"That was terrible," she shook her head, a smile over taking her face.

"Hey, I'm healing," Leaf pouted, crossing her arms in an over-the-top manner, "I'm allowed to make corny jokes."

With the two of them laughing at the corniness, they skipped over towards the wide vary of glasses on display. Serena had a lot of fun trying some on, easily going for the more fashionable ones but that was where she discovered one problem... how could she pick a pair to match her new outfit when she hasn't picked her new outfit yet?

"What about these?" Leaf asked, holding a pair out for her. These ones were less fashionable, with thin arms to attach to her ears with big round lens and a lightly arched connector between them. Placing them on, they felt a little-, "you're a wizard, Serena!"

Laughing at her friends' joke, she held her hand out and used a little ESP to take a hold of them from her face. Taking a quick glance around, she was sure no-one was watching and so she quickly moved them back to their original placement.

"So whatcha thinking?" Leaf asked.

"I don't know," she admitted, "I mean, how can I pick a pair when I don't even know what I'll be wearing with them?"

"That's easy, first pick what sort of thing would you like to wear in Hoenn?" Leaf asked, "like, what sort of colours are you thinking? I know pink is kinda your thing and the red goes nicely with it but maybe it's time for a change."

"Your one to talk," she rolled her eyes, "how long have you run with the sleeveless shirt and skirt?"

"Hey, we can worry about my clothes when we go to the stores," she crossed her arms with a pout, "but for now... you're going to Hoenn which means summer, tropical, beaches... what colour stands out with that?"

"I'm thinking... yellow?" Serena mused.

"Yellow?" Leaf asked, "you want to cosplay as a banana? Or maybe an Abra."

"I mean like sunny, bright and ya know, warm," she shrugged, "and it doesn't need to be the main colour but it can contrast and we can work out which colour matches it best when we get to the clothing store."

"Right," she nodded, "so now we just need find some yellow frame glasses-"

"Perhaps these are what you're looking for," a female voice appeared behind them.

Turning around she saw one of the assistance stood with a pair of glasses in her hand. They were rectangle lens, thing with a thin golden-yellow frame. She took them from her and placed them on her head. She was able see through them, but they left a little gap on all the outer edges which weren't covering her eyeline although it wasn't very distracting. She spun on her heel to face Leaf, and winked, "whatcha think?"

"They suit you," Leaf smiled.

"I overheard you talking about what you were after and these are the ones we sell which best suit what you were after," the assistant explained, "I'm glad you like them."

"They're perfect," she smiled, turning back to the assistant, "thank you."

"Don't mention it, I know how important it is to have a pair you feel comfortable in," she replied, a soft smile on her face, "now why don't you follow me and we'll do everything to set them up with your needed adjustments and payment."

Smiling, she nodded and followed her across the lobby. Turning back, she saw Leaf walk back towards the waiting area. Refocusing on the assistant, they made it to the desk, and she took a seat as the women sat opposite her and typed on the computer.

"Okay, could you just place them on the desk?" she asked.

Compelling, Serena took them off her head and placed them on the table. The assistant scanned them with some sort of device before turning back towards her computer. After another minute of typing, she was asked to put them back on. Doing so, she took final messurmence and made them more of a snug fit for her head. Finally, she took them off and the women sealed them back into a clear see-through bag which she wrote on.

"Alright, do you have your trainers license?" she asked.

Nodding, she took out both her Pokedex and physical card. While the glasses were expensive, she had quite a bit of saving from both her completion at the chateau in Kanto and her grand festival victory. Luckily, she received a special promotion of a free pair to match her own at no-extra cost.

"Thank you," she thanked, accepting her items back, "I don't know what I would've done if they broke and I was on the road."

"It was my pleasure," she smiled, "I've also updated your medical records on your trainers' licence. I believe you said you were heading to Hoenn, well if something does happen then you just need to show them your license and your glasses specs can be accessed."

"Again, I can't thank you enough," she replied.

"I'm just doing my job," the assistant replied, "now your glasses will be ready for collection next week. I'll guess the day after the final."

Smiling at her, she bowed in gratitude before turning on her heel and walking over to her friend. After a quick reuniting, they set out of the opticians and looked at the vast selection of stores. For a small town, it certainly has a decent market although being the yearly venue to the Silver conference, it isn't hard to see why.

The two friends quickly made their way over to a clothing store. They went in and began searching through the array of clothing. Not a lot of it was really suited for a tropical region but soon enough they found a summer range. Spending a good few hours going through the clothing, they soon found an outfit that Serena enjoyed. Not only did it match her glasses, but it was somewhat based off Misty's own outfit, which she found fitting since her friend would be leaving after the Silver conference.

After changing back into her normal clothes and purchasing her new items, they went to another section to look for an outfit for Leaf. After searching and going through most of the selection, Leaf went to try on her collection. Stepping out of the dressing room, she had her hat off and her long brown hair flowing freely. A black sleeveless top-dress covered her torso and actually hugger her nicely. Serena was surprised since Leaf usually went practical over fashionable or anything else. Her dress reached halfway down her upper legs with a cut near the bottom side. Greenish-blue turquoise shorts stopped anything from being to revealing. A pair of trainers to match her new look.

"Whatcha think?" she asked.

"You look great, Leaf," Serena smiled, "I never thought you'd go for something like that, but I really like it."

"I felt it was time for a change," she explained.

"So, you know what your gonna do after Johto?" she asked.

"Yeah," Leaf smiled, "I know I've mentioned before about chronloging my adventures so I might start work on a book. Explaining my journey and how to find all the Pokémon in the Pokedex. I'll start with Kanto and... it would be nice to, ya know, spend some time at home again."

"I think that's for the best," Serena smiled. It was funny how much her friend has grown over her journey, just like Ash she was always running off and looking for the next adventure. While she is sure she won't sit still for long and will definitely have other adventures, it's funny she is the first to settle down from their travels... it will be hard knowing they won't just bump into each other but that's what phones are for.

Leaf took that as a cue to change back into her regular clothing. Buying her new out, the two girls set off back out into the streets of Silver town. Deciding to stop at a small cafe for lunch, they sat on one of the outside tables as they waited for their respective meals.

"Thanks for today, Serena," she thanked, "today... has been the most fun I've had all conference. I know your probably upset at missing time with Ash-"

"Don't worry about it," she shook her head, "my friend needed me, and I'll always be there for my friends. It's not like me and Ash are joint at the hip."

"Not for a lack of trying on your part," Leaf laughed, "remember that Halloween before we became trainers and how you pretended to be terrified of the haunted house that Professor Oak set up."

"I-I wasn't pretending," she stuttered, feeling her face heat up, "how was I supposed to know that Blue would enlist Agatha's ghost types to give us a scare."

"Your face when Mismagius lifted Ash up was hilarious," she laughed, "she almost dragged you up too, but you couldn't hold on."

"It wasn't funny," Serena pouted, crossing her arms, and facing away. As she did, she was surprised to see two people approaching them from across the pavement. Part of her wanted to hit herself for being so surprised but with everything going on, she hasn't had the chance to catch up.

"What up, Cuz?" Calem asked.

"Calem! Miette!" she jumped out of her chair and embraced her cousin in a hug, "what are you guys doing here?"

"Ya know, hanging out before the top eight interviews," he smiled, returning the embrace, "it's funny, despite this being my third league and second interview, I still get nervous at the thought of it."

"You'll be great, babe," Miette leaned over and pecked his cheek as the quick embrace ended, she quickly withdrew and ran up to embrace Serena, "but what about you guys? If ya'll were having a girl's day, then why didn't you invite me."

"Hey Miette," she sighed as the hug ended, "and it's not a girl's day... not really."

"Oh yeah, I heard about the breakup you had," Miette turned to Leaf, "now listen to me. The best way to get back at a guy is to date his best friend and rub his face in it. Luckily, his best friend happens to also be his brother which is the second-best way to get back at him, so you get the double whammy."

"H-how do you know that?" Calem asked, sounding a little unsettled.

"MIETTE!" Serena screeched at the implication of this plan and her boyfriend.

"See, Sere doesn't mind," Miette continued without missing a beat, "now we need to make a big deal off it. I'm thinking after Ash's top eight battle, run out onto the field and make a big display of it."

Serena's fingers twitched and became ridged. A special tingle appeared at their end as she felt her ESP seep through them. Part of her wanted to just use them to lift away but she didn't... she knew that her rival-turned-friend was just teasing her and even if she didn't Leaf's laughter at the interaction made her relax. Her eyes narrowed as she turned towards the blue haired girl.

"I think I'll regret it, but I'll ask again," Calem replied, "how do you know the best way to get back at a guy?"

"After the Kalos league I did some research," she smirked, "be a good boy and you won't need to find out what else I learnt."

Seeing her cousin's reaction did put a smile on her face, he was always more of an older brother and nothing ever seemed to faze him so seeing the blubbering mess which she uses to turn into around Ash is quite refreshing. It's also refreshing to see Miette turn her antics on someone else.

"Anyway," her cousin spoke after calming himself down, "we should probably head over to the studios since they have all that prep to do."

"You two wanna come with?" Miette asked.

"Thanks, but no thanks," Serena replied, "but we'll be sure to watch them."

The two made their exit after a set of goodbyes and Serena retook her seat. A waitress brought out their meals and they both started to eat with a comfortable silence between them. After a few minutes, Serena decided to restart the conversation.

"So, what do you want to do afterwards?" she asked.

"I dunno," Leaf shrugged, "I don't want to go back to the hotel or anything, but we've finished our planned shopping and-"

"Well, if you don't mind, I could think of a couple more shops to go to," Serena shrugged.

"Whatcha thinking off?" Leaf asked.

"I was thinking of some sort of date for me and Ash," she replied, "I mean, he's done so well getting to through to the top eight. And I know he's been having a hard time with this whole Granbull thing so-"

"That sounds like fun," Leaf smiled, "we'll create the best time for the two of ya!"


Brock rolled his neck as he looked around. He was currently stood in the lobby of the main building that'll be hosting the interviews. Despite having tickets ready to view it live, they still had to arrive early to get a good seat. The large room was filled with people and Pokémon sat around chatting. Glancing through the glass doors, he saw the large cue where others we're waiting for their tickets to be confirmed.

"Finally," a female voice sighed. Turning towards the source he found Misty stood next to him.

"You should've joined me when I was heading over," Brock smiled.

"I didn't want to waste half the day waiting in a cue," she replied, "yeah but they will fill up soon. You almost ran out of spaces; it is first come first serve."

"Well we've got twenty or so minutes before they let us through to the seats," Brock shrugged, "what have you been up to? Other than seeing you at some battles, you've been disappearing a lot since the conference started."

"There's this lake to the north of town... it's really beautiful and was a nice place to let everyone out for a bit," Misty explained.

"I didn't take this as a relax and restoration location," Brock replied.

"It was more for training," she admitted, "I know the Cerulean gym is a Waterfield but overall, my team doesn't have a great amount of experience on the fields. So, it was nice letting everyone, especially the new guys a chance to battle on there."

"What's the plan for the badge challenges?" Brock asked, "I know most of your team has been tested. Everyone but Mantyke, right?"

"Yeah, we're saving her's for when I officially take over the gym," she explained, "I mean, she is really young still, so we want her to have as much training as possible beforehand. Then most of the Johto team will be early badges and the Kanto team is middle to stronger end. For those at the end looking for one of the last few badges, there's some of my dad's old team at the gym... and Poliwrath, of course."

"Sounds like you've got it all sorted," Brock smiled, "your gonna make a great gym leader."

"I wouldn't be so sure," she sighed, "I mean, the closer we get. While I'm excited, of course, it also gets more terrifying. Like its really happening."

"That's because it is really happening," he smiled, "you were given the rights of the gym for a reason. You were given the leader role for a reason; you know more about water types than anyone else your age. Maybe even more than most specialists older than you, older than me."

"But every gym leader we've met, they each had something. Something to pass on, and you've seen it help Ash grow as a result," she replied, "I don't want to be just a water gym. The one people visit, get a badge and leave without a second thought."

"That's because every gym leader has a philosophy, something that links them to their type and helps trainers on their journey's," he replied, "sometimes a trainer needs precisely that lesson, sometimes they already know it and sometimes they can pass on something that you might've forgotten."

"So, when you was the Pewter gym leader, what was your message?" Misty asked.

"I'm not the best example," he admitted, "when I was gym leader, my heart wasn't in it. It wasn't what drived me, I took the position so I could financially support my brothers and sisters but as for making a career out of it... that was never my path. My dad, his philosophy was about obstacles being mountains and if your work at it, you can climb them. But you don't need to think about, I'm pretty sure you already know what your message should be."

"Huh?" she turned her head to the side, "what do you mean?"

"Your tough and strong, Misty and there's something you've definitely taught me," he smiled, "I'm sure if you ask Ash or Serena they'd agree."

"What's that?" she asked.

"You really don't know?" Brock asked, "it's your tenacity. You are so tough, and you never given in. You could be stranded in the middle of the ocean and you'd be able to tread water until you reached land. Forcing it to your will, that's why you're a water specialist."

"Well actually I specialise in water because-"

"I was trying to be poetic, not literal," Brock shook his head with a chuckle, "besides, you're gonna be staying with Rudy, right? Between leaving Johto and starting up in Cerulean. Anything else you could possibly need to know; he can tell you."

"Yeah, I'm getting a boat from Olivine to Trovita, so I won't be returning to Kanto with ya guys," she replied, "thanks Brock. You always seem to know what to say."

"What are older brother's for?" he asked.

"So, what have you been up to?" she asked, "and how's Sudowoodo? I haven't heard about him since the incident with Paul and his mother."

"There both good, thanks for asking," he smiled, "not sure who she'll decide to stay with yet, or if she'll even want a trainer but it's nice they have been getting some mother - son bonding time... and my Sudowoodo has really taken to my other siblings, especially Forrest."

"That's good, he's training to take over the Pewter gym, right?" she asked.

"Yeah," his voice trailed off, as he turned to the side.

"What's up?" she asked.

"Nothing, it's just..." he paused, "it's just that my dad is seeing a women, Lola. It's his first relationship since my mum passed. He's been dating for a few months and while I've never met her, Forrest has kept me up to date."

"He's told you she's not nice?" Misty guessed.

"No, before now he said she was nice. A little energetic but that never hurt anyone," Brock shook his head, "but a few days ago... his attitude about her, it changed. He mentioned something about her getting more involved with the gym."

"What do you think that's about?" Misty asked.

"I dunno," Brock admitted, "but I'll be stopping off at home before we head to Hoenn, so I'll be sure to find out then."

"Could everyone in the lobby please follow the workers in high-visibility jackets to the studio so we can get you seated," a voice requested over the PA system. Looking around he saw many members of staff in those yellow jackets which made them stand out.

Following the crowd through the hallways, he and Misty kept close by each other as they entered the studio. Rows of red velvet seats lined up one half of the room, most of the higher up seats were already filled so they worked their way down to the middle section. As Brock took his seat, he saw Misty was sat next to him, although he couldn't make out anyone else that they knew.

It took a few more minutes but eventually all the seats seemed filled. Looking towards the stage, he saw a white table with some sort of plant the lights went down as darkness filled the studio. Several spotlights appeared on the stage, with two fancy looking chairs either side and a couple glasses of water. It looked almost like some sort of home. Large cameras were positioned around them, each with two workers by them. The lights went down, and several spotlights appeared on stage. Spinning all over the stage and audience as a single figure ran out. When she reached the middle, all lights converged on her.

"Hey everyone and welcome to the Silver conference interview with our top eight finalists!" DJ Mary cheered, a microphone around her head, "we've been sent in questions from the public and had those not lucky enough to be here in person phone in questions but we don't want you to feel left out so with each competitor, our hard working staff will be scowering our studio audience for questions as well! You've seen them battle so now let's get to know them even more, my first guest has really proven himself as a strategist but also a reputation as cold, never giving his opponents a chance to counter his pre-laid plans. All the way from Veilstone in the Sinnoh region, its Paul Shinji."

DJ Mary took a seat in one of the chairs as a single spotlight shot to the far side of the stage. It followed the purple-haired trainer as he walked across the stage, an eerie silence filled the stadium as his hands rested in his pockets, his face focused on the host. He was completely alone.

"Welcome Paul, I know this can be a little nerve-wreaking but your more than welcome to have one of your Pokémon out here with you," she smiled.

"Thanks, but no thanks," he replied, taking his seat, "unless you can speak Pokémon, having them here is completely pointless. Let's get this over with."


Ash stood in the wing of stage, looking out at the current interview with Paul. Shaking his head, he turned away and looked down at Granbull, who had opted to stay out of her Pokéball. Pikachu was currently back at the Pokémon centre with a few others who wanted to watch the interview on television. He wasn't sure when Serena was since the room was empty, but he guessed either in the audience or back with Leaf, not that it really mattered.

Looking around, he noticed the other final eight trainers stood around. Harrison was stood with his Houndoom, in some sort of conversation with the only female trainer of the ground, a teenager called Miki, who had her Skarmory by her side. Gary was talking to both Jimmy and Jon Dickson, the other finalist he didn't really know anything about, with their Pokémon: Umbreon, Typhlosion and Ampharos, respectively. While Calem was stood with his Espeon in the far corner. With their eyes meeting, the Kalos native closed the distance until he was stood right in front of him.

"Hey Ash," he smiled, "if feels like forever since spoke to ya. Where you been?"

"Yeah, I guess it has been a while," he chuckled nervously, "so how have you been?"

"I've been fine," he replied, "I saw Serena earlier. She was with that friend of yours, Leaf, I think her name was. Didn't see you there."

"Yeah... I was busy," his voice died in his mouth, not really wanting to go into details about the whole Granbull situation.

"I'll just come out and ask," Calem sighed, "are you two having issues? In your relationship?"

"Calem..." he muttered.

"I know I haven't seen her as much as you have, but understand that she is like a sister to me," he explained, "I've always liked you, Ash, but I also remember what it was like when I was your age and if-"

"No, no we're not having any issues," he cut him off, not wanting to get further details from the older trainer, "at least not in our relationship."

"Good," Calem smiled, "because if you did hurt her-"

"You'd need to get in line," Ash cut him off, "several of her Pokémon, and even Alakazam from my team, have made similar threats."

They're conversation was cut short as one of the workers came over, "Ash Ketchum. We'll be finishing up the current interview soon and after an ad break, we'll be going straight into yours so please get ready."

"Of course," he nodded, as the worker took her leave, "man, its already time... at least Paul's interview went quick."

"That's probably because Paul didn't have a Pokémon accompanying him," Calem explained, "DJ Mary usually likes to focus on the partners with her interviewee so he cut out a good chunk of questions she'd normally ask."

"Oh great," Ash sighed.

Taking a deep breath, he turned towards the entrance to the stage. He was hidden by the black curtains, hiding him from view but he saw the large audience and cameras focused on the current interview. DJ Mary jumped up from her seat, as Paul stood at a much less energetic pace. He wasn't really paying attention to her as he watched the purple haired trainer walk off the stage in the opposite direction.

Taking a deep breath, he waited a few minutes as Mary ran off stage. Eventually, she ran back out onto the stage and jumped in front of the camera, "We're back and my next guest is one of the favourites out of our Silver Conference top eight! He's not only reached the top four in last year's Indigo league, but he won last year's orange league! With a combination of friendly Pokémon who have shown their affection for him on multiple occasions, including an openly affectionate Gyarados of all Pokémon! Help me give him a warm welcome to the stage, its Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"

Despite the quick gut punch of friends lost, he took a deep breath and looked down at his side. He saw Granbull looking up at him, and she raised her paws to hold his hand, almost like a child with their parent. Offering her a smile, they began walking out onto the stage. As soon as they were out in view of the crowd, a loud series of cheers echoed in his ears with Granbull waving back at them, a wide smile on her face. She wasn't showboating like Blastoise would but more like a child, excited by the attention. He soon took the seat opposite the host.

"So, Ash, I have to say it's a surprise to see you with a Granbull," DJ Mary smiled, "a Pokémon not seen in your league challenge so far. Tell me about her."

"Granbull was actually the last Pokémon I caught, she is the newest team member I have," he explained, "we was just walking along one day, and she appeared as a Snubbull. She was interesting in the training and took part. Next thing I know, she's asking to join the team."

Granbull smiled at the story, as his hand rested on her head, scratching it in an affectionate manner. DJ Mary looked towards her, and she nodded as if to confirm the story, giving her a friendly wave like a child might. The host offered her a friendly smile in return.

"Really?" she asked, "it's not common for Pokémon to just ask. Especially rare Pokémon, like Snubbull."

His eyes met with the Fairy Pokémon, asking her a silent question. Her eyes widened as she understood the silent message and nodded her head. With an answer, he sighed and turned back towards the host.

"Well... the truth is, she had a trainer before. She mentioned not having a great time and running away from them," Ash explained, "I never met them but from what I gathered from her... it wasn't great."

"Oh, I'm sorry," she apologised, "but tell me. You said that she asked to join the team. Obviously, no human can understand Pokémon so how did you find out all of this?"

"I-I guess I've always just had a way with Pokémon," Ash chuckled nervously, not wanting to reveal his secrets of aura to her or anyone, "I have with all of my Pokémon, to be honest. And I wouldn't trade it for anything."

"We've seen that particular bond between many of your Pokémon," she replied, "even your Aerodactyl. That was quite a power display in your last battle."

"Y-yeah," he stuttered, "Aerodactyl has always been my strongest Pokémon... honestly, that battle is probably the one I regret most, in a long time."

"Why is that?" she asked.

"Well, I let Aerodactyl take part because he was upset over a falling out between him and a couple of Vincent's team," he explained, "he wanted to take part and get his own back. While I was happy for him to do so, I kinda wished I let my other two Pokémon have a go first."

"Most trainers wouldn't get upset over a victory," DJ Mary encouraged.

"Maybe not, but then I don't mind being different," Ash replied, "I mean, I'm happy that I won but I knew Aerodactyl had the capability to do so. He is the strongest Pokémon on my team. I never wanted to be a bully, everyone should have a chance and I feel like I didn't give Vincent that chance."

"Your certainly an interesting trainer, Ash, and one of the most popular ones competing," she smiled, motioning to the screen behind her, "we have many fans of yours, both in the studio tonight and out across this wonderful region of ours and others, with pre-recorded messages sent in from all over. So, let's see who we have first, it's a young man from the Hoenn region! Max Maple!"

The screen lit up with the image of a child, he looked to be around six or seven with oxford blue hair and glasses. A green polo-shirt on and some sort of traditional building behind. Ash found it a little funny he'd get someone from Hoenn of all places considering that's where he will be travelling next.

"Hey Ash, if you're watching this. My question is, out of all the other finalists in the top eight, who do you look forward to the most?" he asked.

As the screen faded, his mind went running against the other trainers in the top eight, "that's a tough one. I mean, I know a lot of the other finalists already. I met Jimmy early on in his journey. I've known Gary for a long time, we grew up together, after all. It would be nice to face Harrison if only, so I got to see some of his Hoenn native Pokémon in action... then there's the trainers I don't know, like Jon and Miki. I wouldn't mind battling any of them, it's not about the opponent but the fun of the event. As long as everyone involved is having fun, it doesn't really matter."

"That's quite mature of you, a lot of trainers might pick those less experienced just for an easy time," DJ added, "next question is from someone here in the audience!"

A spotlight shot across the crowd and landed on a female teenager with long brown hair. One of the stage workers was stood next to her, holding a microphone up to her, "Hello. My name is Giselle and I'm from a leading university in the Kanto region."

"Hello Gisselle, and what is your question?" DJ Mary asked.

"In uni they teach us all about type advantages and how to take advantage of them," she explained, "while it's not always possible, they recommend that you take any advantage you can. So how do you justify doing the opposite? Like when your Aerodactyl took on a Magneton or Azumarill straight after."

"Well... I seem to remember winning those battles," Ash chuckled nervously, "but as to answer your question. There is almost always a way to win, regardless of the match up. If you take on an easy challenge, then it's not a challenge at all and you'll never learn anything. Reading it in a book is all well and good but actually partaking in battles is a whole different think. It's not like it's some sort of turn based video game or anything."

"I'd dare say that it would be quite a popular video game, if it was," DJ Mary chuckled, along with the audience, "and we have another video question, this one from our own Johto region, in Len town. It's Cherry-"

"I cannot allow this farce to continue!" a voice erupted from the audience. A spotlight had shot straight over to a gentlemen in a suit. Neatly cut short brown hair and a velvet red jacket-tuxedo. Having stolen a microphone from one of the stage workers.

"Excuse me, sir but who are you exactly?" DJ Mary asked.

"My name is Jeeves and I work for the Madame Muchmoney estate," he explained, "my employer, Lady Muchmoney is the true owner of the Granbull and this thug, broke in and stole her from her home. She has clearly been brainwashed by him and while we have the court case pending, he has the golly to parade her around like some sort of prize. Its humiliating!"

Ash froze in place as his eyes locked with the well-dressed man. His hand was embraced by both of Granbull's paws. She began growling threateningly as she hid behind his body. As he looked into her eyes, all he could see was the lingering fear of what this man's appearance might bring.


Ash was walking across the hallway of the stadium, being led by a team of three workers. After the commotion on the stage, he made a beeline off if only to protect his fairy type. She opted to stay out despite his objections and was told that an emergency meeting had been called.

Walking into the office, he saw Mr Goodshow sat at his desk with a fierce expression written over his usually jolly exterior. Several bodyguards were stood around him, approximately double the usual amount in his entourage. On the far side of the room, stood three butlers including the one from the interviews earlier. A large older women with curly purple hair, golden pearl neckless, an alarming amount of makeup and some sort of red dress that Ash considered to be for special occasions, based on when Serena picked such outfits. Loud shouting still echoing in the room although all paused to see his arrival.

Ash decided to the opposite side of the room, Granbull following him in but hiding by his side. He took her ball of his belt and offered her the chance to return but she shook her head. The women sneered in his direction as he put the device back.

"You realise that your butler, Jeeves, could be arrest for stalking based his following of Ash here," Mr Goodshow pointed out, "and as the one paying him to do so, you would be up for much more serious crimes."

"You can't be serious!" she roared, "this thug stole my precious and I needed to ensure her safety."

Granbull growled threateningly at her, snapping her mouth shut as she leaned forward, clearly threatening to bite her should she come closer. Ash kneeled down and scratched her head to calm her down. She did calm down but moved behind his body at the same time. One of the butlers moved over and reached out for the fairy type... but she punched him in the gut instead.

"Oh my," Madame Muchmoney gasped, "what sort of corruption have you put her through?"

"Me?" Ash asked, standing up as his fairy Pokémon hid further behind him, "you did this too her. You made her life miserable!"

"I gave her everything she could ever want!" she yelled.

"No! You gave her everything you wanted," Ash yelled, feeling his aura seep through his fingertips. While initially concerned about the strength, he quickly realised it was fuelled not only by his own anger but Granbull's fear, "she is a Pokémon! Not some sort of doll for you to play dress up with!"

"How dare you!" she growled.

"How dare you!" Ash raised his voice, stepping forward, "I've been stepping on eggshells this entire conference! Unable to focus properly on my battles and having to comfort Granbull every other moment because of you! You've made her life hell and now what?!"

"You can't speak to Lady Muchmon-" Jeeves attempted to argue.

"I'll speak to a Pokémon abuser however I want!" Ash shouted, drowning out the butler, turning back to the madame, "you think that I'm forcing Granbull here. Making her battle or whatever against her will!"

"It's the only explanation," she turned her back.

"Then let me prove it too you, prove to you that she enjoys battling and getting dirty," Ash took a deep breath, trying to prevent his aura from bursting out of his palms, "let me prove to you that isn't the case! That I didn't take her, you drove her away! And she in now happier because she isn't trapped!"

"And how do you plan to do that?" she asked, turning back to lock her narrowed eyes with his.

"I'm using her in my next battle," he declared, "that way you can see her in action. See that she actually enjoys the things you've denied her all this time."

"What makes you think I'd allow that," she asked, "do you honestly think, all is forgiven."

"I'm not asking for your forgiveness," he sighed, "and I'm way past asking permission. She is a part of my team; the investigation has proven I couldn't have taken her so your case is futile from what I can see. This is what is going to happen, then you can at least see how happy she is. It might be weird for you; I don't think you've ever actually seen her happy from what I've been told."

She looked at him with a sneer that might've made most frighten and quiver. He knew she was one of, if not, the wealthiest women in Johto, possibly the world. He had been told to lay low until it was sorted but she could make that last for years, maybe even his whole life. The only way to get her to accept the truth of what she did is to show her what she kept from Granbull... maybe it would even open her eyes and allow her to give the fairy type some closure.

"Well, that seems like a good place to end this for tonight," Mr Goodshow spoke up, stepping onto his desk so he was roughly eye level, "madame Muchmoney, you'll be more than welcome to view the battle with me in the special spectator's box."

The rich women made some sort of scoff or grunt but didn't retaliate. Instead she took her leave with the three butlers, leaving an awkward silence in the room as the door closed behind. Releasing a sigh of relief, he relaxed and turned towards the Fairy Pokémon practically wrapped around his leg.

"Sorry about not asking you before Granbull," he apologised, "if you don't want to battle then I won't-"

"No!" she snapped back, "I-I mean, I want to battle. It might be my last chance to so... yeah, I really want to."

"Great," he offered a smile.

"That is quite a risk you took lad," Mr Goodshow shook his head, taking his seat once more, "you was in the clear, even if she pursued the case, they had no evidence against you. It might have taken time, but the courts would've ruled in your favour... now, however. If something goes wrong in the battle, or the little one gets hurt very badly. She would have everything she needs for a negligent case which could be transpired as evidence for her theft case."

"I won't let that happen," Ash declared, "I know each of my Pokémon. I know their limits, which want to be pushed or won't stop and which I need to stop before they do themselves more damage. I won't let Granbull be put into a situation like that."

"Your definitely Red Ketchum's son," Mr Goodshow shook his head, a smile on his face, "I'm guessing you'd at least like to know who your facing tomorrow, with the interviews cut short and being dragged in here, you wouldn't have seen the match up reveals."

He pulled out a remote from a draw on his desk and pressed a few buttons. The screen to the side off the office lit up, like some sort projection cinema with a table showing the match ups, times, and fields for each match in the top eight position:

Top 8 match ups:

Paul VS Miki - 8 am start - field one

Jimmy VS Ash - 11 am start - field two

Gary VS Jon - 2 pm start - field one

Calem VS Harrison - 5 pm start - field two

So, he'd be facing Jimmy. From what he knew, the young trainer only had a team of seven Pokémon to choose from so predicting his team was the easy part, although he already had a plan for facing him and Granbull fitted into that plan perfectly.


Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...