(Guest chapter 20 . Sep 30

Exposing Professor Oak is going to be fun)

That's what I'm hoping to achieve.


A few days later all the competitors for the Stralia Region Pokémon League and Grand Festival, were awaiting for Professor Gidyea to address the current complaints. Unsurprisingly, many were angered over the fact that Ash and his friends were being allowed to compete. Fights were breaking out between competitors, with most regions calling Stralia a disgrace, while the Galar and Alolan competitors were doing their best to defend the region.

Professor Gidyea stood at a podium to address the crowd, while the other Professors sat behind him.

"Greetings, for those who don't know, I am Professor Gidyea, Regional Professor of the Stralia Region. It's been brought to my attention that many of you disapprove of my decision to allow Ash Ketchum and those who sided with him to compete in the upcoming competition," stated Professor Gidyea. "When Ash first arrived in this region seven years ago, I tested his Pokémon and the results made me believe he was innocent."

Murmurs broke out amongst the crowd.

"That may be hard to believe given the statement by renowned Pokémon Researcher, Professor Samuel Oak, but I assure you my results were accurate, and my decisions were fair. I'm not here to question Professor Oak's integrity, but I'm sure many of you question my own. That's why I'd like to have Professor Magnolia of the Galar Region and Professor Kukui of the Alola Region to come forward," declared Professor Gidyea.

He stepped aside as the other Professors took the podium.

"Seven years ago, my grandmother, the previous Professor Magnolia travelled to this region as she determined this was the most likely place Ash would be hiding. She also tested Ash's pokémon and she came to the same conclusion as Professor Gidyea. That conclusion being Ash is innocent," declared Professor Magnolia.

She stood aside to allow Professor Kukui to speak.

"While I didn't test Ash's Pokémon personally, the results given to me by Professor Samson Oak lead me to the same belief that Ash was innocent. Which is why we have allied ourselves with the Stralia Region and will defend it should it face any danger from another region," declared Professor Kukui.

Professor Magnolia retook the podium.

"We have also agreed to defend the Stralia Region should another region decide to invade," she declared. "We were allied to the Stralia Region long before the news of Ash Ketchum came to light. This scandal has made our alliance stronger as we are proud to support a region in its defence of someone who has been falsely accused."

They were met with thunderous applause from the competitors of Alola, Galar and Stralia. Other competitors couldn't believe what they were hearing. Why were these regions willing to defend a trainer who to them, had been a complete stranger when first accused?

Professor Gidyea retook the podium as Professor Magnolia and Kukui took their seats.

"I understand however, that some of you may question the integrity of both me and the professors of Galar and Alola. For this reason, I would like to invite Professor Rowan of the Sinnoh Region to come forward and announce what was decided on by himself and the other resident professors."

Professor Gidyea sat as Professor Rowan took the podium.

"A few days ago, we all got together to discuss whether Ash and his supporters should be allowed to compete. Everyone from Kanto to Kalos insisted he should be disqualified for his actions. Professor Oak was so determined to have Ash disqualified that he threatened war against this region," Professor Rowan paused for a moment as the audience talked amongst themselves. Some thought this was exactly what they should do, while others were wondering if Professor Oak was taking things too far. "None of the other professors agreed with this threat, feeling it was too extreme a move to bring a single fraud to justice. Therefore, if Professor Oak were to declare war on this Region, he will receive no support from others. None of us feel people should die just to bring a fraud to justice."

Many amongst the crowd thought this outrageous and demanded Ash's disqualification and arrest.

"Which is why we came to an agreement," interjected Professor Rowan. "Professor Gidyea told us that one way or another Ash would be competing, so he offered us the best alternative he could. He proposed that another professor be allowed to test Ash's pokémon to collect results that wouldn't be influenced by bias. While we knew this wouldn't prove Ash's innocence from seven years ago, we knew it would prove whether or not he was playing by the rules for this competition. I was selected as the Professor to undertake these tests, as I was believed to be the one who would be most honest about my findings."

There were murmurs of agreement amongst the crowd.

"With Ash's permission, I tested every single pokémon he had caught and trained throughout his journey. He even gave me his pokédex to ensure none were missed. All were accounted for, except for a butterfree he claims to have released into the wild during his first year as a trainer," stated Professor Rowan.

"The tests showed that all of Ash's pokémon were," everyone's ears were on Professor Rowan as he prepared to say the words that would determine if Ash would compete or be disqualified. "Clean. None showed any signs of drugging."

Professor Rowan paused to let the crowd absorb this information. Many of them were understandably shocked.

"He has proven he is following the rules of every region with an established Pokémon League. Because of these findings we have come to the following decision: Ash Ketchum is permitted to compete in the Stralia Region's first Pokémon League. As are his friends who supported him when he was first accused," declared Professor Rowan.

There were objections to this decision among the crowd, despite the support it had been given by the other professors. Professor Gidyea retook the podium.

"I know a lot of you are outraged about this decision, but as regional professor of the Stralia Region my decision is final," Professor Gidyea held out a document. "I have in my hands an agreement signed by every regional professor, including Professor Oak. They've all agreed to permit continued participation by the Trainers and Coordinators of their regions, provided Ash continues to follow the Rules of the League. To ensure this happens, Ash has agreed to have his pokémon tested after each of his battles. Furthermore, to ensure there is no biased influence on the results, Professors Elm, Birch, Rowan, Juniper and Sycamore have agreed to alternate who does the tests. We believe this is the best way to produce honest results and is a decision agreed upon by every regional professor and Ash Ketchum himself."

There was little opposition to this decision, as all knew it was the best offer they would get. Nevertheless, Professor Oak's supporters were determined to prove they were superior to both Ash Ketchum and the entire Stralia Region.

"Before you go, there is one more section of this agreement, I feel I should address," announced Professor Gidyea. "We predicted that this decision would not sit well with many trainers who believe Ash should be disqualified. We also know there may be hostility towards Alola and Galar and their decision to ally themselves with the Stralia Region. I am only going to say this once so pay attention. There is to be no unauthorised battling between competitors. With the current hostility we fear further battling could result in serious injury to people and pokémon. If you want to prove yourself the superior trainer or coordinator, you are to do so on the battlefield in an official match. Any competitors caught battling outside the competition will be immediately disqualified."

The entire crowd acknowledged this as their first and only warning.

Professor Gidyea decided to end his announcement on a calmer note.

"Now, I hope you've all registered for the upcoming competition. If you haven't, I recommend registering as soon as you depart, as registrations will be closing at the end of the day. Tomorrow you will all be flown down south to Sail City, where we will be hosting the Stralia Region's first Pokémon League and Grand Festival. We were originally going to hold this competition deep, in what we call the outback because we felt it was a true representation this Region but we decided against this for the following reasons: It's very hot and desolate, I have a feeling most of you won't want to camp in tents for the entire competition and it's so dry out there a single fire attack could accidently set the whole area alight. For those who think I'm joking let me assure you I'm not. The last thing this Region needs is another bush fire." All the Stralian competitors knew this was true. "Therefore, we have decided to hold this competition in Sail City, which is considered to be this Region's most iconic city. I wish you all the best of luck and may the best trainer and coordinator win!"

After this, the crowd quickly dispersed. No one wanted to be disqualified, so they agreed to not engage in battles with the Trainers from Stralia, Alola and Galar. Nevertheless, they were disgusted by what these regions were doing and were determined to teach them a lesson on the battlefield.

Ash and his friends were just glad they could walk through the streets without having to worry about their former friends wanting to battle them and forcing a forfeit.

"You think the no battle rule will stop people?" asked Ash.

"No way, have you seen how angered people were? I guarantee a few people will be disqualified by the end of the day?" declared Gary.

"Maybe we should make bets on how many will be eliminated before the event even begins," suggested Dawn.

They all laughed at this.

"The only problem with this 'no battling' rule is we can't get in any last minute training," stated Clemont.

"Neither can anyone else. Besides it'll ensure our pokémon are well rested for the event," responded Brock.

"Speaking of the event," interjected Ash. "We have to ensure we don't underestimate any of the competitors. We have to treat each battle as if we're battling a champion. It's the best way to ensure we all make it to the finals."

"Don't worry Ash, I have no intention of taking it easy on anyone," declared Max.

"Neither am I. I'm going to show them we're the superior trainers," stated Bonnie.

"I hope you're going to put the same energy into the Grand Festival Dawn," said Ash.

"No need to worry about me Ash. May and Kenny are about to face the most difficult contest of their entire lives," declared Dawn. "Every other contest will be a walk in the park compared to what they're about to face."

At that moment three visitors to the Stralia Region approached the group.

"Max!" called a woman.

The group turned to see Max's parents Norman and Caroline and his sister May.

"You guys go on ahead without me," stated Max. "I'll deal with them."

"Are you sure Max?" asked Bonnie.

"Yeah, I think it's about time I put them in their place," said Max. "Besides you should probably go check on Dawn's mother, make sure no one's tried to have her arrested while we've been gone."

Johanna had been advised to stay in doors while in the Stralia Region. True to his word Professor Gidyea had ordered police to guard her around the clock to ensure no officials from other regions tried to arrest her for treason. Sadly, that hadn't stopped numerous people from trying to have her arrested. She was safe for now, but for how long was another question.

"Good idea," said Dawn. "I just hope she's allowed out to watch the Grand Festival."

"I'm sure Professor Gidyea will think of something," stated Ash before turning to Max. "Just be careful Max, something tells me the Professor won't hesitate to disqualify you if you break the rules."

"You don't have to worry about me. What I have to say to these guys doesn't have to be expressed through a Pokémon Battle," said Max.

The group left to let Max deal with his family.

"You're looking well son," stated Norman, unable to believe his son was standing before him.

"Don't call me son. You lost that right seven years ago," spat Max.

Norman was about to retort when Caroline intervened.

"Max please, we're not here to fight. We just want to talk."

"Well quite frankly, I don't really have anything to say to you. Mainly because you won't believe me," stated Max.

"Listen, maybe we were a little harsh in your punishment, but we were just trying to help you understand that supporting a cheater is wrong," reasoned Caroline.

"You just don't get it do you? I didn't support a cheater, because Ash didn't cheat. And quite frankly I don't understand how any of you could believe he would."

"Max most of Ash's pokémon were in Professor Oak's care, if anyone would be able to identify evidence of misconduct it would be him," reasoned Norman.

"Did it ever occur to you that Professor Oak might be lying?" asked Max.

"How can you say that Max? Professor Oak is the most respected and accomplished expert on pokémon on the planet. Why would he lie about something so serious?" replied Norman.

"I'm not sure, but that's what we're determined to find out," stated Max.

"Max please stop this foolishness and come home," pleaded Caroline. "I've already spoken to Professor Oak, and he's agreed to put in a good word for you to lighten your punishment."

"I'm not interested in anything that geezer is offering. He'll just stab me in the back the same way he did Ash," spat Max.

"That's it Max. We've been patient with you, but we're your parents and we know what's best for you. Now do as you're told," demanded Norman.

"You can't tell me what to do Norman," stated Max. "I'm a citizen of this Region and Brock is my legal guardian. You have no say in what I can and can't do."

As much as Norman hated to admit it, he knew Max was right.

"I'd battle you right now to put you in your place, but you heard what Professor Gidyea said, doing so will result in my immediate disqualification," stated Max. "I just hope we meet on the battlefield, because then I'll show you how better off I am without you."

Caroline was close to tears. The son she knew was gone.

"I never thought you'd grow up to be such a disappointment," stated Norman.

"Like I care what you think," Max turned and walked away.

May chased after him.

"Max wait!"

"Go away," he replied.

"There's just one thing I need to know. How did Ash break you out of military school?" asked May.

Max stopped and turned around.

"He didn't," declared Max. "Did you see the news report of my escape?"

"Yeah, Ash forced the other students to say that Jirachi appeared, and you both vanished," answered May.

"Ash wasn't there you idiot," spat Max. "Despite the way they treated me, those students at least had the decency to tell the truth. Jirachi did appear and he granted my wish to escape."

"Do you honestly expect me to believe that?" asked May. "Jirachi only appears once every thousand years and he appeared when we were younger."

"There are many legendary pokémon May, who's to say one of them didn't awaken Jirachi?" posed Max.

"What do you mean?" asked May.

"When Jirachi appeared, he told me that a higher power had brought him out of his thousand-year slumber," answered Max. "We're not entirely sure what that means, but we believe that there is a higher power out there that wants us to prove Ash is innocent."

"So, you're saying Jirachi did appear to save you? Ash had nothing to do with it?" questioned May.

"Yep, but I guess Oak's word will always be accepted over the truth," stated Max

May was at a loss for words.

"Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some actual friends I have to see," Max turned to leave. "Oh, and before you try to accuse me of lying to cover for Ash, you should know that I don't care what you think, because something tells me you wouldn't believe Jirachi appeared even if you were there when he did."

May wandered through the streets for some time processing what she'd been told. Had everything Professor Oak said been a lie? Why would Max go so far as to defend Ash by saying Jirachi had appeared to help him? May saw no reason why Max would lie about such a thing, especially in light of Max and Jirachi becoming close friends during the millennium comet.

May remembered the time she spent travelling with Ash through the Hoenn Region. Back then she believed Ash was amongst the most honest and hardworking trainers in the world. She also knew Max was right, without Ash she'd never be the Coordinator she was today. Ash helped teach her the basics of Pokémon Training and how being kind and compassionate towards pokémon was the best way to help them grow. Because of this she was horrified when the truth came to light that Ash had drugged and abused his pokémon to make them stronger. Over the years she had had her doubts if any of this was true, but she'd always held on to the belief that it was for a simple reason, for what reason would Professor Oak lie about something so horrible?

As fate would have it, May would soon be a step closer to her answer. She heard shouting from a nearby alley that sounded like Professor Oak. She approached cautiously and peered into the alley. Professor Oak was there in the middle of a heated phone call.

"I did everything I could to have him disqualified what else was I supposed to do?" demanded Professor Oak… "Yes I know your organisation funds my research, which is why you wanted Ash prohibited from Pokémon Training… No they don't know we're in cahoots, but I have a bad feeling the professors from Galar, Alola and Stralia figured out what I did and shared that information with Ash… Look it doesn't matter what they say, no one in a million years would believe that it was me that drugged Ash's Pokémon."

May gasped. Everything she'd been told was a lie! Professor Oak had drugged Ash's pokémon. She ran away.

May didn't know what to do. She wanted to run to Ash and beg for forgiveness, but she feared Ash wouldn't believe a word she said, especially after everything she'd done. Then she thought she could tell one of her friends, but realised they wouldn't believe her either. They would think she'd been brainwashed by Ash and she would be branded a traitor by everyone she knew. May felt lost and alone. She had just overheard crucial information that proved Ash was innocent, but there was nothing she could do with it. No one would believe her. The information was useless.

As May walked back to her hotel she was overcome with guilt. Guilt for not giving Ash the benefit of the doubt. Guilt for having her brother prosecuted when he had done the right thing. Guilt for destroying her family. She was remorseful. She felt she would never be able to fix her mistakes.


Thanks for reading. Please let me know what you think. All feedback is greatly appreciated. Feel free to suggest battles for the upcoming League, as it will help me greatly. I'm also open to suggestions for improvements and plot suggestions for down the road.

Before I go, I feel I should mention that the new subplot with May has come about as I've been asked to try and create a redemption ark for her. I think this could work, as I've shown May to have lingering doubt about everything that's happened and now that she knows the truth, she wants to do everything she can to fix her mistakes. Problem is, she fears that no one will believe her, which puts her in a very difficult position. How will she overcome this? Stay tuned to find out. I must admit that I initially thought May would be one of the harder characters to redeem, but given how this scandal has affected her family, I can actually see her wanting to fix things as best she can. Whether or not I'll be able to redeem other characters is another issue I may have to face down the road.

Thanks again for reading. See you next time.