Chapter 19

Gary blinked his eyes open, bright light filtering through them. With a tired groan, he awoke, squinting his eyes as the glare of artificial light proved to be too strong. His eyes focussed and he welcomed the much needed clarity. The same could not be said for his mental state. Confusion fogged his mind even more as he heaved himself off the mahogany desk. His back protested with an ache as he stretched his arms.

Where was he? The building was familiar, but he couldn't recall ever entering recently. Gary noticed the huge bookshelves on the opposite wall, each section meticulously organised and labeled. The clock on the wall told him it was early afternoon, but the laptop screen in front of him drew his attention the most. Gary rubbed his eyes, a sigh escaping his mouth. Was he working overnight again? He leaned forward his eyes scanning the essay he typed up. His heart stopped as he read the screen.

It was his assignment on the fabled Sinnoh fourth lake said to have been a portal to other dimensions and home to the banished legend, Giratina. It was the place where mysterious Turnback Cave may have been located. The ancient lake remained a secret, for no one ever dared to encounter Giratina. He could remember clearly the time when Professor Carolina in Celestic Town informed his that the lake was removed from the Sinnoh national map in order to stop people trying to find it. It was too dangerous to allow them to do so. More importantly, he wrote about it in his book.

Apprehension sunk inside him as he attempted to fix this impossible puzzle. This was research paper he completed months ago! Or maybe even a year? Gary shook his head furiously, as if it would suddenly bring clarity and wipe away his perplexity. Stuck in his mind's confusion, Gary didn't realise someone had entered the study room.

"Gary, did you fall asleep again?" A woman asked with a rusty laugh.

Her short grey hair sat above her small shoulders and heavy wrinkles outlined her eyes and mouth. There was a badge showing her name attached on the lapel of her pristine white lab coat. "Maybe you should take a rest, you've been working all night! In fact, I expected you to have left by now."

It was Professor Carolina, head of the Celestic Town Historical Research Center.

His eyes darted to woman, shooting up off the chair in surprise. What was she doing here? Wait, this was the town's research center! He'd stayed here for a month during his journey through Sinnoh. Why did he come back here again? Gary thought hard, but his memories were oddly hazy. All he could remember was a vague silhouette above a lake. What lake was that? It didn't narrow anything down considering Sinnoh has a many lakes. Maybe it wasn't a lake in Sinnoh?

"Professor-" Gary realised how hoarse his own voice was. He cleared his throat loudly and blinked several times to wake himself up. "Is this-"

An abrupt loud cheer suddenly ripped through the room and Gary instantly stood up, taken aback by the sudden sound. He stared at the window warily before turning his attention back to the woman.

"What's that noise?" He didn't remember opening the window so wide; a quiet ambiance was the kind of environment that assisted his thought process.

"I'm not one to watch much TV, but I was watching today's contest," she answered, youthful excitement colouring her tone. "Thanks to the contests business is booming. I haven't seen this many people since the excavation of the space-time ruins!"

Logic finally- mercifully- returned to him. It was the Celestic Town Contest. Though an eerie feeling already told him the answer, Gary licked his lips. "Who's participating?" he asked, eyeing the window warily.

"The finalists were a dashing young boy called Drew and a young girl whose name eludes me," Professor Carolina gushed. "They called the the 'Princess of Hoenn-'" He knew it.

"I need to go." Professor Carolina shot a stern look, one that made him feel like a child being told off.

"You should be getting some sleep. You work hard, but you need to remember to look after yourself too. Take a rest, it'll do more good than being cramped in that chair all day!"

"There's something I have to do first!" he exclaimed, throwing his jacket over his shoulders and grabbing his bag.

Gary sped past the startled woman, as instinct took hold and he raced down the staircase, his mind barely registering the steps as he leaped. His heart stopped as he watched Rhonda of Sinnoh Now reporting live from the reception TV. The contest was over. Drew won, and Gary already knew that! His eyebrows knitted together in bewilderment.

He had never met May in Celestic Town even though they were in the same place at the same time. Coincidences! Or was destiny's twisted sense of humour? Gary guessed their encounter was destined to happen all along. He would meet her months later near Shelter Town, freezing to death.

"Unbelievable," he uttered under his breath.

His wild assumption was correct. Somehow, he was back in Sinnoh. Somewhere, unseen forces were at play because somehow, time turned back. History was being rewritten and he was the author. Rationale would have to take the back seat for now because this had to be some sort of time-travel.

Illex forest. The shrine. That light. The memory flicked back and forth through his tangled, blurry thoughts. Vivid colours, iridescent flashes and voices overlapped one another. Words dissolved into incomprehensible sounds. Gary clutched his head, resisting a groan. Some voices were happy, others angry and upset, and then... silence.

Could it be the silhouette he saw was Celebi? The legendary guardian of the forest who he had studied about in Johto. His heart leaped with joy as realisation dawned upon him. He had a second chance to fix his mistakes, to right his wrongs. Relief washed over his features and he turned his head towards the door, a smile growing on his face.

"I know what I have to do," Gary said to himself, full of conviction.

A weight shift in his pocket as he stood up straight. Curious, he checked the pocket. His hands clasped an odd shaped object tightly. He brought it out, and as soon as his eyes observed it, his breath halted. His eyes were transfixed on the golden glint of the halved ribbon. Jubilation electrified his senses as he jumped with a cheer. Onlookers threw strange looks in his direction, but he didn't care. It was May's ribbon. The very ribbon she gave him in Sunnyshore City as a promise.

"And that's all for today!" Rhonda announced, the contest recap showing on the screen. "Drew is the official winner of the Celestic Town Contest! Now it's time for the commercial break."

May stared at empty spot next to the ribbons that sat upon the black velvet. The celestic ribbon could have been filled the gap. She could have gotten all five. The small gap looked like a crater. With a frown plastered on her face, she put her shut the ribbon case and slid it back inside the pocket of her bag.

Ah yes, losses lead to post-contest depression which meant May would use the time to uselessly wallow up in pessimism. Drew was always such a strong contender. She would use the failure as a tool for success, but she he wondered if she could ever beat him.

Her schedule for today was to leave Celestic Town through a route instead of undertaking a perilous journey through the maze that was Mount Coronet. To add to her chagrin, said route was nearly always covered in a thick of fog. Today just had to be the day the weather chose to be inconvenient! Could the day get any worse?

"Mount Coronet," May sulked to herself.

She had no intention of risking getting lost inside the tunnels, potentially breaking a leg by accidentally falling over the precarious mountain cliffs, or getting her clothes mucky because of the mud and dirt. Needless to say, it would take a miracle for her to enjoy exploring caverns and mountains. It was simply not her thing.

May pulled out her PokéNav and glanced at the screen. Travelling wouldn't be a problem if the PokéNav worked like it was supposed to! Being up high in the mountains meant she would undoubtedly lose signal and eventually end up walking around in circles (a mistake she didn't want to repeat). Lately, it would randomly turn off or show her a completely different route to the one she was on. It was an older model, though. May wondered whether she should invest in a Pokétch. Those watches seemed more reliable.

The town pokemon centre was small compared to the others. The waiting room had an sturdy oak coffee table placed between two large sofas, one which May was slumped on as she waited endlessly for the fog to clear up. Her pokemon were healed and prepped by the resident Nurse Joy and she had bought the items she needed for the road ahead from the PokéMart. She even had time to stop by the ancient ruins situated in the centre of Celestic Town.

Thinking back to the exploration of the ruins, Sinnoh mythology intrigued May. The legend of Dialga and Palkia amazed her, as all legends did. History and legendary pokemon had always been something that fascinated her since she met Manaphy. The myth of the People of the Water, the mystical Sea Temple, it made May ponder about the wonders and secrets of the pokemon world.

What other legendary pokemon are out there in the sky, in the waters, caves, even underground? What if some resided in an alternate dimension humans couldn't see? May hoped to meet someone who shared the same thirst for knowledge of the unknown, and perhaps could give her the answers to the myriad questions that emerged in her curious mind. She'd love to be a reporter who investigates the mysterious legendary pokemon one day, but those thoughts were for another time. Her failed match was the current thing on her list to overthink about since she had time to spare.

May was so sure she was going to win the contest. But then again, this was Drew she was facing. There was a likely chance she would lose, and she did much to her disappointment. But as with every loss, she learnt a valuable lesson: Drew was distinctively aware of his environment. The way he used sunny-day to power up Arcanine's fire-type moves instantly boosted his performance. That alone showed more skill that her combinations with Delcatty. May hummed quietly to herself, her mind mapping out different ways she could copy and change that tactic to suit her style.

And that's when an epiphany catapulted her out of her seemingly eternal boredom; her next destination will be Snowpoint City. It was the prefect environment to train Glaceon and discover new techniques to show her off. If she succeeds in reaching the vicinity, that is.

Soft footsteps padded on the cream carpet, but May was too engrossed in her gloom to take notice of the newcomer. A red rose, however, did the trick. With a small smile, May took the flower in her hand and looked up shyly at the one who held it out.

"What'cha still doing here? I thought you were heading off to Kalos?"

"My flight was delayed so I wanted to see you one last time," Drew replied, a hint of relief evident in his voice. "I think I'm gonna miss the quietness of this town. And you."

May grew startled at his last words, eyes widening with surprise. She cleared her throat loudly, hoping he didn't notice the burning blush on her cheeks. However, his smirk told otherwise. Two can play at that game, she thought inwardly. Keen to change the subject, she twirled the rose between her gloved finger, a teasing edge to her voice.

"And what's this one for? I didn't win this match."

Drew grinned, his eyes gleaming with mirth. "That's right, I won again. The rose is for-"

"Beautifly, right?"

"You know me so well," he laughed. May's grim expression lit up alongside him as she giggled. Drew sat beside her, flipping his bang.

He changed a lot from their journey throughout Johto, and now Sinnoh. He was more open; their talks ranged from contest to childhood and more. His chirpy, optimistic side drew her in more and more. It was as if she was trailing down a winding road covered with blooming flowers. She considered him more than just a friend, and she knew he thought the same about her. It was an unspoken truth. Something she was worried to admit aloud- what if it ruined their friendship?

"I'm going to miss you when you leave," she confessed after a pause. "Kalos is really far."

"Honestly, I hate going to my father's charity galas," he muttered, his words laced with contempt. "It's just publicity for his reputation. And of course, the famous son has to attend."

"It's for a good cause, right?" Drew nodded tersely.

"I swear, May, I won't end up like him," he seethed. "I would never pretend to be something I'm not just to improve my reputation in the public's eye."

"Not that you need to! People know you because you're a talented coordinator," she said earnestly. "I can't imagine how people lie like that."

"Thanks." A genuine smile appeared on his face, removing any trace of resentment that lingered. "Even though I believe you, I think somewhere in the universe, fate hates me."

"That isn't true," May chastised, having heard this hundreds of times. "You have to stop being pessimistic, it's not a good look on you."

"And what look do you prefer?" He asked, winking.

"Happy," she simply said. Drew blinked at her answer.

He licked his lip, glancing through the window thoughtfully before resting his gaze on her. "I meant what I said before. I will miss your company."

"I'll miss you too, so until then, try to have some fun while you're there!" she smiled, hoping it would instill some semblance of excitement in him. "I bet Kalos is great. You'll met all sorts of new people."

"I'll try," he sighed, his eyes lingering one her a moment longer. "Goodbye, May."

The was a small silence as his heart yearned for a touch, but he held back and restrained any wish to hold her close. He couldn't bear the potential consequence of ruining their precious relationship. As he waved his goodbye, May watched him walk away, a forlorn look wiping away her short-lived happiness. It would be a long while until she sees him again. For now, she would train even harder for the next time they battle. She will surprise him, May thought as she held the rose against her heart.

Beep! Beep!

Drew glances at his pokenav, annoyance marring his otherwise nonchalant expression. He tore his sight away from the train window with a low grumble. He already told his father he'd be taking the train to the airport and had zero interest in riding the family limo to the company's private jet. Yet, the incessant noise disturbed his musings as he watched the scenery race by. If it was he father again, Drew would seriously toss it out the window. His glare faltered into a confused stare as he read an anonymous message flashing on the screen:

Don't go to your father's charity gala. Do not agree to whatever he says, otherwise you will regret it. Ignore Palermo, and don't get sucked into the fame game. It never ends well. You said you wanted to be the world's best coordinator, well then, train and keep training until you reach your goal. Don't go Kalos. I've seen you regret this moment, and when life gives you a second chance, you take it.

Fate doesn't hate you.

Who the hell sent him this message? How did he know Palermo was going to be at the gala? She was the surprise guest; no one except his father knew she would be attending! The whole fate thing too he told May. This couldn't be a coincidence.

An ominous feeling twisted and curled inside him, confirming the fears that lurked at the back of his mind. He reread the message, making sure that his eyes weren't deceiving him. His lips pressed into a thin line, conviction clear in his emerald eyes as he dialled a number.

"Hello, this is Drew Hayden. I'd like to cancel my ticket to the Kalos region." He smirked as a worried voice immediately responded. He paused coolly and then sighed dramatically. "Well, my father will just have to deal with it."

"The routes around Snowpoint City are facing severe snowstorms. Trainers who are planning to travel north, please make sure you are properly dressed and fully stocked on essential items!" The weatherman blared through the TV. "The weather news has been brought to you by Sinnoh Now!"

According to the map, the closest town to Snowpoint City was Shelter Town, on the outskirts of Lake Acuity. May grumbled to herself. The only way was through Mount Coronet. Oh how she hated those mountains! The twisting tunnels, steep cliffs and zubat-infested caves. As a Hoennian, the cold, mountainous terrain of Sinnoh did not suit her. Not one teeny tiny bit. And now snowstorms? When will the horrors stop?

"Sorry May," Nurse Joy said, the chansey beside her bowing its head apologetically. "There's no ferry available to Snowpoint City, especially at this time of the year."

And so the nightmare continues.

"On the bright side, the fog should be clearing tomorrow. Would you like to book a room?"

"No, thank you," May replied tiredly. "I might leave for Veilstone City today." Shopping always brightened her mood and Veilstone's department stores were perfect to splash cash on overpriced items.

She bit back a groan as trudged back to the lounge and fell back onto the sofa. The northern waters were frozen so there was no way she could take a ferry. The next train was due to arrive in an hour, and the it was still unbearably foggy outside. She slouched further into the sofa, her mind flicking back and forth from trek to the frozen north to Veilstone's attractive shopping departments.

The only reading material available was untouched. The Daily Ribbon sat on the table in all its glossy glory. May scoffed; no way would she read exaggerated junk like that magazine. All they talked about were baseless rumours, coordinator drama and celebrity couples. The only time she was ever on the front page was when she punched Harley in the face. Not her proudest moment, but he really deserved it at the time. The only reputable news was Coodinator's Weekly, to her disappointment, wasn't in the room.

Hurried footsteps reverberated in the quiet room, catching May's attention. Her eyes lazily trailed to the source. She slowly straightened her posture as the trainer approached her. Something clicked in her mind as she looked at him. Familiarity pricked her, yet she couldn't fathom where she had met him.

"You're May, correct?" Gary asked calmly, though he failed at ignoring the green eyed monster that clawed at him as he stared at the awful rose in her hand. Right, he had that to deal with again.

She nodded, her face pinched in suspicion. "That's right."

Gary wasn't sure what to feel about the cautious look she gave him, so instead he offered her a smile. "I think you've lost something."

"I don't think I have."

"What about this?"

May gasped, her face growing pale. Surely, she wasn't this forgetful! She dropped the rose and grasped the ribbon, holding it against her heart as she shot Gary a look of gratitude. The flower lay on the carpet between them, forgotten.

"I can't believe I didn't realise it was missing!" cried May, eyes wide with astonishment. "Where did you find this!? This is my lucky charm, I owe you."

"You must have dropped it." Or given it me on the beach which of course you don't remember because it's not happened! "Where are you headed?"

"Snowpoint City hopefully," May mumbled bleakly, remembering the her only option was to walk to the city, "but at this rate, I'll be heading east to Veilstone City."

If she wanted to train Glaceon as soon as possible, she would have to travel through Mt Coronet. Clearly, it was a waste of time sat in Celestic Town, all for a hope that the weather would get better.

"I'm heading to Snowpoint City myself," Gary said, as steadily as he could.

His nerves were racing and his heart thudded wildly against his chest. Did this mean he arrived at Shelter Town the day May set off the opposite direction? The whole situation was unreal. May's eyes held no recognition of him. Melancholy replaced his initial excitement when Gary realized the memories they once shared ceased to exist.

"If you'd like to join me, I don't mind," he added casually, putting his hands in his pockets. "It's faster if we go through Mount Coronet instead of taking a detour through Veilstone City."

"Have I seen you somewhere?" May asked pointedly.

Gary swallowed thickly as she examined him. "That might be a possibility," he replied, wondering if May, like him, retained old memories.

"You wrote that report on endangered pokémon!" She cried triumphantly. "It was brilliant. I had no idea some species were endangered." She stopped abruptly, her face heating up under his unwavering gaze. "Gary Oak!" She seemed pretty pleased with herself for remembering his name.

"I'm researching Sinnoh Mythology," he added, snapping out of his trance. "It's a project to help my grandfather, Professor Oak."

May internally face-palmed. Of course! "My little brother Max would be so mad at me for forgetting that," she muttered, slightly dazed. "What's your reason for heading to Snowpoint City?"

"Lake Acuity. I'm hoping to explore the cavern and collect information about lake guardian Uxie."

"That sounds like an expedition!" May smiled sheepishly, "and chances of getting lost are less if someone is with me."

"I think people still find their way somehow even if they get lost along the way," he replied nonchalantly, gazing at her.

There was a hidden meaning behind his works May couldn't quite decipher. She tore her eyes away from his intense stare, afraid she'd start blushing as bright as a tomato berry. It was one thing to be physically attractive, but it was simply not fair that he was kind and smart too.

May grinned at the prospect. "In that case, let's go!"

A strange sense of deja vu washed over her, as if the universe cracked for a moment and showed the times she and Gary walked side by side. Had she traveled with him before? Nonsense, if she met the notoriously charming researcher Gary Oak before, she would have certainly remembered it! Still, she had no idea why she harboured a wonderful feeling about this journey. As they walked out the pokecentre, she caught his poorly-hid smirk from the corner of her eye.

Ha, if Gary Oak thinks he can beguile me with his stupid charisma, he's got another thing coming his way! May thought with a smirk of her own.

Almost finished - epilogue next! There's also a surprise coming up.

Please review! Huge thanks to Guest, skyrosediamond, mizg and The N01 Master for the reviews.