Author's Note:

Here it is, the final part of this arc. I hope you like the conclusion to this three-parter. Not much else to say, I just hope you enjoyed this arc, it's hard to believe we're coming up on one year of writing Hoenn. Also, Zinnia, I know this isn't her role in the games or manga, but she might be more important later on... we'll just need to wait and see. A lot of people seem to think this is where Serena catches Absol, not sure who gave them that idea... we might see him some time again as well, but just not now. For those of you who think she's catching too many Pokémon to quickly, well she won't catch another until after the sixth gym. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with this, let's begin.

Chapter Thirty-Eight: When World's Collide

"A-Absol-"

She tried to swallow but something blocked her throat. The pure dark type glanced back with a gleam in his eye. The horn on his head glew white. With a flick to the side, a slash through the air shot out towards their opponent.

Her eye was drawn towards the purple blur. Crobat swooped overhead, avoiding the razor wind. Opening his mouth, a loud screech echoed out.

Absol took off in a quick sprint. Swiping his head once more, a second projectile slash intercepted the supersonic. He ran straight underneath.

His mouth hung open, foaming with dark type energy. He closed in on the elderly scientist.

"Look out!" she shouted.

The poison flying type flew into his side, with glowing purple wings. Slashing them down in an x-shape, knocking him sideways.

Both his claws and horn glew white as he skidded to a stop. He stepped back, countering each blow from the bat Pokémon. Watching closely, she saw a quick glimmer of blue flash within the disaster Pokémon's eyes.

Shooting forward with incredible speed, he knocked the bat Pokémon sideways. Running straight at a rock, he leaped.

Landing on the side, he spun as he pounced off. Their opponent ascending up behind. With a glowing horn, he sent a razor wind soaring.

Striking the purple Pokémon in the back, he fell down onto the ground. Landing face first right in front of the sleek, white-fur Pokémon.

With a narrowed gaze, he turned around and stalked towards the scientist. She glanced back to see the bat pushing himself back up from the ground. Taking a deep breath, her eyes locked with his... a confident smirk flicked up, making her feel at ease.

A golden ball shot down from the sky, striking the poison flying type. An explosion engulfed him, and he shot out. Smoking, he landed flat on his back.

With a flash of light, a new Pokémon materialised in between the magma leader and Absol. It was floating in the air, around the head of it's partner, in the shape of a cube with a pointed spike on top. It was mostly orange with a red plasma arms extended out. Two robotic red eyes were above the black rectangle right above it's presumable stomach. Resembling the Rotom from Ash's last gym battle. She pulled out her Pokédex to check it out:

Rotom, The Plasma Pokémon. Water variant. It was once believed to be a legendary due to it's rarity but more and more have been showing up in recent years, proving this theory wrong. This form specialises in fire play. Fire fighters struggle handling it due to not knowing if the fire is electrical or otherwise

A red light recalled the fallen bat Pokémon. Her attention focused on the two Pokémon, one floating around raining fire over the top of the volcano.

While Absol danced through the onslaught of wild flames. Launching out Razor-winds but none of them seemed to land the taunting plasma Pokémon.

Focusing her attention on the scientist, she realised he could still be an issue even if Absol wins. With her decision made, she coated herself in ESP.

Throwing her arms down, her powers blew her upwards. Steadying her path as she flew over the on-going battle, she carefully lowered herself in front of the man, who stumbled back in surprise. Tripping over his own feet, she ended up looming over him.

Holding her hand out, she channelled her powers through the fingertips. Placing a single finger on his forehead, he fell back, fast asleep.

"Why didn't I do that from the start?" she mumbled to herself.

Something smashed into her back. Sending her flying as she spun to see what. Landing flat on her back, she found the sleek, white-fur Pokémon stood over her. Blinking, she glanced to where she once stood. Scorch marks from some sort of electric attack staining the ground.

"Thanks," she whispered.

The pure dark type nodded, a tiny tint of red in his cheeks. Turning around, he zoomed off in a speedy quick attack.

She pushed herself up into a sitting position. Absol charged straight into the plasma Pokémon's gut, knocking it backwards.

Spinning around, Rotom easily redirected the flight path. Floating straight for the disaster Pokémon, a series of blue fire balls shot out of the stomach, orbiting around the fire-electric type. With a massive stream of orange-flames, they went flying at the sleek, white-fur Pokémon.

Feeling her powers burst through each cell in her body. She slammed both fists down on the ground. A pillar of earth shot up in front of him.

With the flames blocked, the pure dark type leaped up. Disappearing on the other side with an eerie cry seconds later.

Scurrying too her feet, she ran up to the pillar. Finding Absol with dark type energy foaming from the mouth. His teeth sunk into the plasma Pokémon as he shook back and forth. Sending the fire electric type straight into the rock pillar she created, he followed through with a razor wind to the back.

"We did it..." she sighed as the dark type walked towards her.

"Sol," he grunted, gesturing over to the boiling pit of lava.

"Good point," she sighed, her eyes drawn a little down the mountain. The sight of a giant Claydol and a Magmortar where her boyfriend was, blocking him from sight not reassuring, "we should help them!"

"Absol," the disaster Pokémon stood in front of her.

Before she could question him, a series of flames shot out of the sky. Looking up, she saw a giant Salamence soar overhead, spewing out the flamethrower.

A blur jumped down, scrapping down the side of a rock pillar towering out of the ground. Revealed to be the wild girl, Zinnia from back at meteor falls. She stood on all four limbs, her hands curled up onto fists, as she staggered closer to the crowd of grunts. Her nose twitching with each sniff.

Her dragon flying type shot down. Tackling the pure fire type into the ground.

Charging forward, she threw herself at the grunts. Tackling the first couple down to the ground, she leaped off and sucker punched another in the jaw.

The large black clay doll Pokémon stalked forwards, leaving her in shadow. She turned to face it, hissing violent, not to different to Seviper.

Cracks broke the ground underneath. Like a mountain erupting from the earth, her Tyrantrum shot out, clenching his strong jaws around their opponent.

Stepping out onto the ground, he shook the ground psychic type around like a rag doll. Sending it hurdling downhill, the prehistoric Pokémon leaped after.

A flash of light shot out and a Flygon materialised overhead. The Salamence rocketing into the sky behind with Magmortar in tow.

Before the ground dragon type could pick a fight, a much larger version of the same species dropped out of the sky. Tackling the kin into the ground, the larger version glew with a red outline. Smearing the less-experienced counterpart across the ground.

Locking the green dragon into a headlock. Zinnia's insectoid partner dragged them down after Claydol and away from their trainer.

Her eyes followed the young wild child who ran across the floor. Heading straight for the purple-haired girl who stood about to throw another Pokéball. She tackled the scientist and delivered a swift one-two punch, knocking her flat out.

Jumping off the scientist, she grabbed a hold of the decent sized blue bird. It flew away, carrying her off from the ground.

Separating her feet slightly, she prepared to catch her with psychic energy... should Tabitha's Swellow let go but a loud caused her to lose focus. A lump formed in her throat as the mighty blue dragon swept down, tossing the defeated Magmortar onto the summit.

With fangs flaring with flames, she remembered Hunter J's Salamence. That one was disciplined, every movement mattered. Like a soldier.

Certainly, intimidating but this one was a different beast entirely. A fierce, savage force of nature. Pure anger could be seen in the bloodshot eyes.

Easily catching the bird, he bites down on over half the body. While the wild girl fell, being let go from Swellow's talons, the dragon easily caught her.

Cradling the young child in one arm. The blue-bodied, red-winged beast tossed their new chew toy sideways.

Landing right in front of the large man, they carefully set Zinnia down. With one of the front legs protecting her like a mother would their cub. Stalking forward, the grown man fell on his behind as the intimidating monster's mouth hung slight, a flame burning within.

"Wait!" she cried out, not needing ESP to see what the protective Pokémon intended. Running out she moved between the dragon and magma admin.

Zinnia grunted, pinching her lips together. Climbing up onto the blue-dragon like you might expect an Aipom or Mankey, she walked over the neck.

She lifted up a strand of her shoulder-length hair, sniffing her, "berry?"

Quirking an eyebrow up, she stepped back from her as she crawled back onto her dragon. Focusing on the blue-beasts face, she saw it stepping forward again. Eyes focused on the large man, who crossed his arms in front of his face, crying out.

"No! You don't need to kill him!" she cried out. Turning around, she flicked her hand out, using ESP to knock him flat out before turning back, "see. He'll be arrested. I know he put Zinnia in danger, but I would've caught her. You don't need to deal out your own punishments like that."

Zinnia humped, sitting down on the red-winged Pokémon's back. Arms crossed with a breath of air blowing a strand of hair out of her face.

"Sol," the dark type added, landed in front of her.

She let out a sigh of relief as the mighty dragon finally stepped back. The flame within the mouth disappearing. Although her moment of relaxation faded as both wild Pokémon looked down at the ground they stood on. A thick tension surrounding them.

"What's the matter?"

The pure dark type turned to face her but before making any sort of response, turned to the side. Crouching low, he growled, the razor tail waving back and forth. She turned to see her boyfriend approaching with Pikachu perched on his shoulder.

"Sol, Absol!"

"Hey, hey," he held his hands up, "what did I do?"

"Absol... I don't know what you have against Ash but he's here to help," she reassured, kneeling down, and running her hand over his head. Despite being a wild Pokémon, his fur felt so soft... she'd be mistaken to think Brock created a specialised grooming routine for him. It took a couple seconds, but he stood back up, not taking his narrowed eyes off her boyfriend, "there... now why did you both look down?"

"Absol sol," he muttered.

"He said that something big and powerful was asleep at the base of this volcano," Ash translated, "and it's starting to wake up."

"Is that why it's preparing to erupt?" she asked.

"Sol," the disaster Pokémon nodded, "Ab-Absol."

"And it's the only one that can stop it," he explained. The pure dark type zoomed off from the spot, over down the north side of the volcano, "he's going to try and warn the villagers in Fallarbor. Due to magma's plan, that's where the lava will escape."

"What are we supposed to do?" she asked.

"Well... I've got one idea but I'm not certain it'll work," her boyfriend replied.

"We need to try it," she insisted.

"Aura is meant to connect all living things... maybe I could resonate or something," he replied, "try and communicate. Maybe convince the Pokémon to go back sleep."

"Good... I could try the same," she nodded, "or well, reach out to their mind instead. Maybe if we both do it, we could convince it."

Nodding, her boyfriend sat down onto the ground. Crossing his legs, he took a deep breath. His chest raising and lowering with the controlled pace. Relaxing his arms, his eyes closed as a blue outline flamed around him.

Entering a similar stance, she focused her powers at the front of her head. With a deep breath, she sent out the wave of ESP.

He opened his eyes.

Another worldly sight welcomed him. Pure darkness surrounded him as he looked down. Nothing beneath his feet but he wasn't falling. A bright flash momentarily blinded him but as they adjusted, a strong red light raised up. Some sort of massive creature stood in front of him but other than the burning red outline, no specific details could be made out. Instinctively reaching for his Pokédex, he realised both his pockets and belt were empty.

"I am... king of the earth. Creator of continents... Groundon!"

A low deep voice echoed as if they were trapped in some sort of cave. Two glowing red eyes burst into sight high above him. Cranking his neck at a steep ninety-degree angle, he swallowed at the realisation... this creature stood taller than even mount chimney itself. Even the largest man-made buildings would only reach the knee... which seemed to be bent, given the curvature of the outlining glow.

"Are you causing mount chimney to erupt?"

The deep blood-shot eyes enflamed and narrowed. He felt himself instinctively step back but he couldn't be sure he moved at all. Groudon's shifted to leer down on him. With the feet now visible from the outline, he also saw that he was about the size of the clawed toe.

"No... the cause of the eruption is the same one which woke me," the legendary beast growled, "it's a mere side-effect... now you answer something for me."

"Wh-what?" he stuttered.

A warm breath of air blew past him. The thick tension making it difficult to breath within the humid environment. His eyelids were heavy, and it could've been his imagination, but he thought he saw the large legend move a little more within the heat-haze.

"Who is the voice in my head?"

"I-It's probably Serena..." he panted, wiping his forehead, "she's a psychic and my girlfriend. We don't want you to awaken. Not now."

"How come?"

"Because with your awakening, you'll erupt mount chimney," Ash gasped, each breath more difficult than the last. Streams of tears joining the sweat flooding his face, "hundreds of innocent people and Pokémon will suffer."

"I mean them no-harm," the legend declared, "I don't even know them. I might know their blood but not them personally."

"You might not mean it, but harm will be inflicted," he gasped, "they will burn in the eruption or be crushed under your weight."

"Mind... spirit..." the legendary mused, "tell me, human. Are you and this Serena... chosen? I highly doubt an aura user and psychic showing up for my re-awakening is coincidental. She seems very intent on stopping my re-awakening as well."

"We are," he nodded.

"And what of the third chosen. The completion of the trinity... body?"

"He's... not here," he muttered, "he's off in another region. Dealing with something else."

"So, you have shown me mercy," the legendary nodded, "than I feel compelled to do the same. I shall return to my slumber but be warned. My reawakening is upon the horizon. When my brother returns to consume the world with water, I too shall fight for the life off land."

"W-wait... are you scared of Drake?" he asked.

"So, Drake is his name?" the legendary mused, "I must admit. I've never met that particular incarnation in any of the bodies he inhabited. But I know what they are capable off... the ever-lasting nightmare of Darkrai. Beast of Orre. Hunter of J."

"My brother is none of them," he replied.

"Maybe not yet... but you've already met Celebi," the legendary replied, "is it too much to believe his future self has dabbled in the past?"

"How do you know who we've met?"

"Your partner... the one in my head is psychic. Should you know what you're doing, you can search their minds once they create the connection. It's a two-way path."

"But you'll stop the eruption?"

"I shall... for today, at least."

A bright red flash exploded out of the legendary continent creator. He raised his arms to protect against the intense light. Squinting through the boiling exposure, he noticed the once expansive black world was burning red... for a split second until the darkness resumed.

He narrowed his eyes, unaffected by the rushing wind as they soared up the side of the volcano. Focused on the summit, he saw the thick black smoke pumping out. Closing in on the target, he noticed a helicopter turn and disappear within the black cloud.

While he could've pursued, seeing several magma members already down on the floor, he brought himself down. His mighty dragon entering a steep fall.

Surround them, he saw several other G-Men on their own respective flying types following his lead. In a matter of seconds, he was sliding off Dragonite's back and stood on the summit of the mountain. He took a moment to properly look at the situation.

With clear evidence of some sort of massive battle scaring the ground. He found a few dozen magma grunts, and their illusive admin on the ground surrounded by an army of powerful-looking dragons... with some sort of young girl on the back of the Salamence. The creator was burning with lava, but based on the burn line near the rim, it was actually going back down. He continued to scan until landing on two familiar faces.

Both Ash and Serena were sat in meditative poses, Pikachu and Pidgeot surrounding them. A blue flame, not too different to his father's, surrounded the raven-haired boy's body. While a light pink light surrounded the honey-blonde girl. His small army of officers landed beside him.

"Start taking the magma members in," he instructed, "I'll check on the kids. Maybe we could get some answers."

As he approached the dragons, he realised just how small the child was. She couldn't have been older than seven. The young girl seemed to notice him and leaped off the blue-dragon's back. Walking over on all fours, she cautiously approached. Lifting his cape, she sniffed it... next thing he knew, she had climbed up his body, ending on his shoulders, massaging his hair... his partner chuckling at his predicament. Reaching up, he picked her up.

The red-winged dragon spun towards them and stepped forward. With a mighty roar, a flame flickered within the mouth.

His Dragonite followed suit, stepping in front of him. Narrowing his gaze, the two pseudo legendries stood opposite each other.

"Your protective off her," he mused, glancing at the blue beast, "but she can't be your trainer... she's too young. It's unimaginable a Salamence would follow her... maybe her parents? No... that look in your eye. It's something parental. Like she is your own."

"They're like siblings," a familiar voice explained. He turned to see Serena approaching. The young girl struggled, forcing him to let go. She fell down, landing on all fours and scurried back over to the large dragon, climbing back onto the back, sitting between the wings.

"But she's too young to be their trainer," he replied, "even if she's ten, which is a push, no way a Salamence would already be evolved and fully grown."

"By your definition, she isn't their trainer. They're all wild Pokémon," she explained, "but she grew up with them. They choose to be with her. Like an adopted family."

"But what of her real family?" he asked, "I can't just let her go... she looks like she's been sleep rough for weeks. Her speech is hardly developed."

"Have you heard of the draconid people?" she asked.

"Of course," he replied, his gaze narrowed and turned to face her, "but you can't expect me to believe she's one of them. They're ancient, passed away years before either of us were born. They're nothing but legend."

An echoey cry called out, he turned to see an Altaria approaching. It came in for a soft landing, with an elderly women in similar rags sliding off. She wasted no time in walking over to him with a stern expression, "so you're the famous dragon master, Lance?"

"I am, and you are?" he asked.

"Her grandmother," she rolled her eyes, inclining her head to the wild child, "I must admit, I'm disappointed. I expected more given your reputation but all I see is some poser who flaunts around the easiest to tame dragon like some sort of massive achievement... in a cape. Talk about ego."

"What're you doing here?" he asked, "we've got a situation and-"

"I came to bring my child home," she replied, "if I let her run loose, she'd burn everything down just to see the pretty colours in the sky. Although it would be funny to watch you try and stop her, even if it'll be a losing battle."

"Is that a threat?" he asked, "and I can't just let her go. At least she's a material witness and I need to ensure she's in good health."

"You can ask her all the questions you like but you won't get any answers from her," she turned her back, "she speaks the language of what's in a dragon's heart... the likes of you would never understand. And as for the implication of her health, a true dragon master knows how to survive with their kin, clearly a cape wearing pretty boy wouldn't know what that's like but don't judge us by your standard."

"I still can't let you go," he insisted, stepping forward. The women stopped and turned to face him with a scowl.

"Tell me, boy, has my child or her friends committed any crimes that you've witnessed?" she asked, "or has anyone accused her?"

"Well... no," he admitted.

"Have her friends caused any sort of havoc against the innocence in your world?" she asked.

"...no," he sighed.

"So, you have no grounds to with-strain her or her friends," she replied, "while it would be amusing, watching the arrogant dragon tamer get his ass handed to him, should you try and stop us. I feel there's been enough action for one day. We'll leave you in peace and you leave us."

Biting his inner cheek, he had to admit she made a good argument. Zinnia, as he believed she was call, clearly hasn't sustained any physical injuries and he has no grounds to arrest her. He watched the blue beast turn around and take off with a mighty thrust.

"Sir!" one of his officers called out, "we've got explosives on the north part of-"

With a massive roar, a Tyrantrum erupted out of the ground. Tossing the pile of explosives up into the air. A swift flamethrower from the red-winged dragon caused them to explode mid-air, like some sort of firework.

"Well, I'm glad that's dealt with," the young girl sighed. He turned back to see her wiping a trail of sweat off her forehead. While the raven-haired boy approached, drenched in sweat.

"I'm probably going to regret asking this but what exactly happened here?" he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Magma wanted to erupt the volcano and expand the land to the north," Serena explained, "the explosives were to divert the flow through Fallarbor."

He frowned, glancing to the side where the small village laid. The images of all the possible residence who would've fell. Both people and Pokémon. He'd need to raise the alert for when they get back. Rival gangs is one thing... but these people are fully fledged terrorists. He has a responsibility for the people of this region. He'd also need to reassess the aqua situation; from Misty's reports they are trying to help clean up the oceans for the Pokémon who call it home.

...but the road to the Distortion World is littered with good intentions.

"Hang on..." His eyes travelled down to the creator, the lava fading into the dark caverns, "I'm no geologist but the if it was that close to the top, it should've erupted. What happened?"

"Well, whether by design or accident-" Ash started.

"It was accident," Serena interjected, "I did I quick mind-sweep but none of them seemed to know."

"Know what?" he asked.

"Know that Groundon rests deep beneath Mount chimney," Ash explained, "he's the reason the lava went back inside."

"Technically, its magma," Serena corrected, "it only becomes lava if it breaks the earth's surface."

"Right," the boy sighed, a tint of pink hitting his cheeks, "anyway. We contacted Groundon to talk."

"I used my ESP to talk mind to mind and Ash used his aura-"

"Your father always said he had aura running through his veins," he sighed, turning around, "he was so proud to be a descendant of Sir Aaron, but I never really believed him. I always took it as a fairy tale which got out of hand but with everything you've gotten into... and what he got into back in the day..."

"It's true," the girl insisted.

"Of course," he held his hands up, "it's just a lot to take in... and my reports are going to be scrutinised... but it's the only thing which could explain the lack of an eruption."

"Groundon also left a warning," Ash added, "his awakening is soon... when the beast of the sea, Kyogre is awoken... for their battle to continue."

"...great," he sighed, "all right Dragonite, get ready. We're gonna need to set off soon."

His trusted partner nodded, turning towards the south of the mountain. Crouching low, clearly waiting for him to climb on.

"I had your friends taken to our makeshift base at the foot of mount chimney," he explained, "you can get a lift with one of the cars. I need to get back and work with today's events... I might need to speak to you too again."

"Well, we could fly back," Ash smiled, "whatcha say Pidgeot? Still got it in you?"

His large bird smirked, cracking her neck, and stretching her wings. Rolling both around, she turned and walked next to his orange dragon. Smiling at the child-like excitement at the posed challenge, he couldn't help but admire their youth... while his mind worried about what else will happen before this is over and why these kids, Red's kid, got caught up with Team Rocket... then Jirachi and now apparently Groundon... with the promise of Rayquaza to follow.

"Dragonite isn't easy to follow," he mumbled, climbing onto his partner's back.

Shooting off into the sky, his mind briefly wondered towards the elderly women and young wild child. While he'd never admit it, he can't help but feel slightly jealous of her. After all, he's tried bonding with several Bagon over his life as a dragon specialist, but none picked him as a partner. They are infamous as the second most difficult dragon to tame, only behind Hydreigon... which he's also failed to tame, or even get the chance. Although they are less picky.

A quick glance back and he saw the young trainers just within view. While hardly given them a race or pushing his partner, Dragonite are just naturally fast, even if their acrobatics abilities fail in comparison. Soon he spotted the base, and they came in for a steep landing.

Checking over his dragon flying type whilst waiting for the guests to arrive, he watched their more gentle approach. Before they touched ground, he recalled the orange beast and walked inside, giving one of the first officer's he saw the job of taking Ash and Serena too their friends. Walking through the base, it didn't take him long to find his way to the special agent he recently enrolled within the alpha-omega task force.

"Brodie," he greeted, "glad to see you could make it."

"You're the last person I expected to call in an undercover operation," the man greeted, "you've always been the straight forward type. Like a blunt hammer."

"Well, we need something more precise," he replied, "we've already got an agent within aqua. I originally planned for you to join magma. With information from both sides, we could've launched a duel take down."

"Why would you make it a duel take down?" he asked.

"That was the original plan, and because if we took down one side first, it would've led to a power vacuum," he explained, "but things have changed."

"How so?"

"Today the gang known as magma went from a criminal enterprise known for thefts, to a terrorist organisation," he replied, "I don't care about the possible power vacuum, we need them stopped. Your mission is to infiltrate and discover the base. Once we have a location, we'll raid and dismantle."

"How do you expect me to have an in?" he asked.

"We captured their field command, Tabitha," he replied, "you can disguise yourself as him. That'll give you easy access."

"Maybe but they know he was arrested," Brodie shrugged, "and given your about to publicly raise the threat level, it wouldn't make sense you'd let him go."

"How did you know I planned to raise the alert?" he asked.

"I've made a career out of faces... specifically, other people's," he replied, "and it's written all over yours."

"So, what would you suggest?"

"Over my career, I've made a name for myself as someone for hire," he replied.

"The man of a thousand faces," Lance rolled his eyes, "how could I forget."

"So, I find something they want... maybe something aqua are after and use it as a bargaining chip," he replied, "they'll know I'm paid help and just looking out for my next employer. In these sorts of organisations, you need to be something they want."

"What exactly would you give them?" he asked.

"Not that it really matters, once they have it, you'll have them," he replied, "but give me twenty-four hours to go through the aqua's undercover's reports. I'm sure I'll find something that'll get their interest. Trust me, Lance, I'm the best when it comes to this sort of thing."

"Call me crazy but it's hard to trust someone who deceives people for a living," he sighed, "not to mention your narcissism-"

"I'm not the one wearing a cape," he smirked, "like I said, trust me. Go see to your guests."

While he hated to admit it, Brodie certainly was the best undercover agent in the force. He just hated the division of the organisation. Should he have another option to fighting magma, he'd take it, but time is limited. Who knows when they'll attack again? Pinching the bridge of his nose, he turned and walked out of the room, finding one of his sergeants stood with a clipboard. He held it out with a pen, which he accepted and signed.

"Call superintendent Greevil, tell him I have a new report for the omega case," he explained, "and that I'll need a sign off on a press release."

"Sir!" the Sargent saluted, marching off into the base with the clipboard.

Continuing in the opposite direction, he soon found the child in a group. They were sat in a circle with prop-up chairs, and a drink. One of his foot soldier's keeping an eye on them. He stood next to the officer, who straightened his spine on instinct.

"Have you taken down their statements?" he asked.

"Not personally, sir," he replied, holding out a pile of papers, "we split them up for questioning. As protocol requires."

"Good," he replied, "go put these on my desk. Then report to the lieutenant for clean-up duty. I want to move out before sundown."

Nodding, the young officer walked off at a slightly quicker pace than his Sargent. He waited until he was out of sight before turning towards the group, he listened as the honey-blonde girl spoke to the Pewter gym leader's son about her Sylveon. He couldn't be certain, but it sounded she needed a check-up.

"I take it you're heading off for Larvaridge now?" he stepped forward, drawing all the kids attention.

"A-actually, I was go-oing to Mauville, sir," the pink haired girl stuttered, standing up with an Espeon by her side. He stared down at the eeveelution for a moment before glancing back up to meet her darting gaze.

"It's Lance," he replied, flicking his eyes down to the psychic type for a split-second again, "are you from the Johto branch of the Kimono sisters?"

"Y-yes," she stuttered, "h-how did you know?"

"Their breeding techniques are famous, and I can see their influence in your Espeon," he explained, "but regardless. I can prepare squad cars to escort you. I hate to run you along but we're packing up this location so you can't stay here."

"Thanks, but no thanks, Lance," Ash stood up, "but we'd rather walk. Right guys."

"Yeah," the young boy in a green shirt jumped up, "just think of all the Pokémon we'd skip over."

"Right, well, to make it to Larvaridge, you just need head south through the jagged path. You're about a day or two away from the town," he let a small smile flick up on his lips. The enthusiasm of youth is why he loves the league gatherings. He turned towards the pink-haired girl, "and you... Miss."

"Oh erm," the pink haired girl stumbled back slightly, "yeah, sure. We'd like a lift to Mauville."

"I'll task one of my officer," he informed, turning his back, "they'll fetch you when the vehicle is ready."

"Thanks," she meekly whispered.

Setting off, he barely made it five meters away before a voice called out to him. Stopping in his tracks, he half turned to see the raven-haired boy running after him. Stopping by his side, a hopeful glimmer in his eye, "is Gyarados here?"

Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, "yes."

"Can I see him," he immediately snapped.

"Ash," he stopped himself, taking the time to look the boy in his eyes, "I'm sorry. I've had both a therapist and neuo-scientist work with him and while he's made great progress from the original incident. One of his triggers are reminders of his past life. We tried showing some of your league battles from Kanto and the Orange Islands, but they sent him into a rampage. Dragonite had to use his full strength to restrain him."

"So-"

"We are unsure how he'd react to you, personally," he explained, "in the battles, it seemed to be his old-self that caused the biggest reaction, but we'd hate to take the risk and reverse his progression. I am truly sorry, but I also hope you understand, we're just trying to do what's best for Gyarados."

"I get it," he mumbled, his posture slouching with a downward gaze. Biting his inner cheek, he watched the young boy turn and walk back to his friends. If he had a magic wand to reverse what happened, he'd use it without hesitation but sometimes life just isn't fair. It's this part of the job which sucks most.

Turning back around, he straightened his own posture. Setting back off throughout the makeshift base.

Grovyle blinked as he materialised, finding himself on a cold metal floor. Glancing around he saw several machines. Closing his eyes, he stumbled backwards as images of the tanks and soldiers who took his family flashed in front of his mind. Opening them, he focused on a wooden door.

"This must be the lab that Ash and Pikachu mentioned," he mused.

Bolting off from his position, he quickly walked through the out-of-place door. An entirely different world met him. He found himself in a wooden corridor with a staircase to the left. With a deep breath, he made his way downstairs. While he swirled the twig around in his mouth, he took a deep breath. A fresh scent of mountainous air filled his lungs. The sun illuminating his way through the windows littered around the walls.

"Cuddle!"

As he stepped down onto the ground level, he saw a large, purple sludge Pokémon moving surprisingly fast across the ground. With arms raised, wiggling back and forth with a wide grin and nearly closed eyes... his fists clenched tight at the sight... it wasn't comforting.

Turning on a heel, he shot off towards the slightly jarred door. Shooting outside, he found himself on some sort of patio, in the shadow of the building with two Pokémon close by. A canine with black fur, horns, and a daggered shaped tail. The other being a mostly white, flying Pokémon. The winged Pokémon took a deep breath and breathed out, a small flicker of flames spewing out of his mouth... although it quickly extinguished.

He made his way over towards them, "erm, hey!" The two Pokémon turned towards him.

"Your new!" the flying Pokémon zoomed towards him. Swirling around the pure grass type with a high-pitched squeal.

"Calm down, Togetic," the canine muttered, approaching at a slower rate, "nice to meet you. Houndoom, and you've met Togetic."

"Grovyle," he nodded, "erm, there was this purple-"

"That's Muk, he's super friendly," Togetic smiled, plopping down onto the canine's back, "did he give you a cuddle?"

"I believe he wanted too," he replied, "but I made my way out here first."

"He's harmless really, just overzealous when meeting new friends," Houndoom explained, "he's also more of an indoor mon. He hardly ever comes out here."

"Sooooooooooo, who's your trainer?" the white-furred Pokémon asked.

"Ash," he shrugged.

"Yippee!" he shot back up into the air, looping back down towards him, "daddy is all our trainer! How is he?! And uncle Pikachu? And Serena."

"Wait... you don't consider Serena as a mummy, but you think of Ash as daddy?" he asked.

"Most are caught off guard by it more than nit-pick the finer details," Houndoom mused.

"Well, I sort of see her as a mum... kinda," the part flying type blushed, "but it's not the same."

"I think he means he see's her as a step mum," Houndoom stepped forward, "but he imprinted on Ash... hence the strong familiar ties."

"Makes sense," he shrugged, "so erm, not to sound rude but Ash said I'd probably meet Venusaur first. As he does the guide-tours or something."

"He means the welcome wagon!" Togetic beamed, "technically mister Venusaur started it but a few of us are members. Myself, mister Blastoise, miss Meganium, mister Croconaw-"

"Alright, he gets the idea," Houndoom cut him off.

"Is he always this excited?" he asked.

"Pretty much," the canine nodded, "heh, you could almost mistake him for actually being our trainer's kid. Couldn't ya."

"So where is he?" he asked, "I mean, from what I've been told. I think I'd like to get to know him."

"He's currently fighting the big scary monster on top of the hill!" Togetic yelled.

"Not this again, Togetic."

"Monster?" he asked.

"He has ten claws, and drinks blood and chops anyone up into a billion little pieces!" the winged-Pokémon explained, "and-"

Not wasting another second, he took off in the direction the little one was pointing. He heard something in Houndoom's voice, but it was lost on the wind as he ran across the grassy ground. It didn't take him long to notice some sort of battle between a large Pokémon with a plant on their back.

With several large thick vines out, he lifted the opponent into the air. Some sort of roots surrounded his body, but he noticed several sharp claws sticking out.

Spinning around, the metal shining blades stuck out. Slashing up the roots and vines, a small brown, spikey Pokémon landed in front of Venusaur.

Flexing both arms down, he felt the grass type energy burn through his veins. The leaf's extended out in a glowing swords.

Charging off, he leaped over the fellow grass type. Bringing his leaf blade down on the cutting little monster.

Being caught in the metal claws, he came to a stop as he landed back on the ground. Bringing his second blade up from underneath.

His arm went numb. The purple tint filling his opponent's claws, having jabbed his inner elbow. With his second arm following suit. A sweep underneath and he ended up fall onto his back with the monster jumping up onto him. Stabbing the ground by his neck, the hand just above his throat with anger filled- narrowed eyes. A loud cry with bit of saliva flew down onto him as his heart stopped. Breath refusing to enter or leave his body.

"Enough," a voice called out. The small, brown opponent took a deep breath. Climbing off him, he turned and walked away. Using his arms, he pushed himself up into a sitting position to watch the monster walk away, "that was very stupid off you."

"Venusaur?" he asked, glancing to the side.

"Yes," he nodded, "I take it your one of the new Pokémon Ash or Serena caught in Hoenn?"

"Grovyle," he nodded, "and yeah... Ash caught me."

"Well, I'll tell you this for nothing, you're lucky," he mused, "if you had split up a battle with Sandslash even a year ago, he might not have stopped at knocking you over."

"I thought he was going to kill you," he muttered, "Togetic said-"

"He exaggerates," he sighed, "but Sandslash doesn't mind him thinking he's a monster. It keeps the little one from intruding or annoying him. Still, you're a good fit for our trainer."

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"Running into what you believe is a dangerous situation, head first, without any plan," he chuckled slightly, "you couldn't get more like Ash if you tried. But I'd recommended not intervene in Sandslash's affairs."

"But-"

"I know, you just did what you thought was right but let me tell you something," he replied, "when most of us spar here, we don't treat it like a proper battle, whether to avoid massively damaging the ground. Or disturbing the others, or seriously injuring others."

"But not Sandslash?" he asked.

"No, not Sandslash," Venusaur sighed, "he's... got anger issues. But he's trying to work on them. So, when we sparred, I used tactics which I know would purposely anger him more than anything else."

"Why?"

"Because if he's angry and can still focus on the task at hand without losing control," he explained, "I think that's a good indicator he's improving. Come on, we should leave him too cool off before you get yourself into any more trouble."

"Like I said, I thought-"

"Yeah, yeah, that he was gonna hurt me," he replied, "I should be flattered. Look Grovyle, you've got a good heart. But a good heart isn't all that matters, a fast mind and strong conscious can only make it quicker. It's one reason I don't worry about our trainer every day."

"Huh?"

"The two people I always know he's with... Pikachu and Serena," he explained, "the former is like a physical conscious. Sure, his quips can get annoying, but it keeps stuff from getting too serious. Sometimes that's all you need to focus on the situation or get a different perspective."

"And Serena?" he asked.

"Well, you've met her, I feel sorry for anyone who tries to harm him when she's nearby," he smirked, "I doubt I could stop her when she's on her a-game. But that's what the saying's about Distortion world have no furry. Almost makes me glad to be old and passed that sort of thing."

He shuffled his feet in place and glanced down from the fully evolved Pokémon's gaze. His tongue went dry as it swirled the twig around.

"You alright, Grovyle?" he asked, "if you wanna talk about her, I'm good at keeping my mouth shut."

"How did you-"

"There's only one thing that gives young men that look in your eye," he chuckled, "and you don't strike me as... the same way Taillow does."

"Taillow?" he blinked, "no-wait. We're getting off track."

"It seems you're not thinking straight... makes sense when ya'll got a girl in your head," he shrugged, "my advice. Check out the training ground. Combat makes everything straighten out, from my experience."

"Alright, I'll take you up on the offer," he paused, "so erm. Who would you suggest I take on?"

"What sort of opponent you looking for?" he asked.

"I guess... someone experienced. Not someone I could easily beat with typing, but I don't want the challenge to come from their typing either," he shrugged, "I want it to be decided on skill... and someone else on Ash's team, if only so I can get to know more of my teammates."

"I'm gonna suggest Tauros or Primeape then," he smiled, "I'll introduce ya, but they fit your criteria. And they're always up for a battle."

"I look forward to meeting them."

Ash sighed as his Pokegear faded to black. The image of his dad disappearing from sight. Slumping against the tree truck, he sunk down onto his behind, his arms resting on his knees as the stared down at the ground. A cool breeze blew past.

Grabbing his travelling hoodie, he had already changed into his nightwear, but Brock was using his tent to check over Sylveon. She got some sort of stomach ache or something during the battle... but he really didn't listen to the details. His mind was focused on what Lance told him. Part of him always thought they'd reunite once he recovered but if what the inspector said was true... that'll never happen.

"Hey Ash, we're pretty much done," Serena's mental voice echoed through his head.

With a sigh, he stood up and walked back towards the campsite. Max was sat on Vigoroth's lap, shining Aron with the flicker of the fire providing them heat and light. May was sat on a log with her newly evolved Mightyena lying in front of her, as she stroked his fur. He passed by, trying to avoid interaction.

"Ash?" May's soft voice drew his attention.

"Yeah?" he stopped, turning to look at her.

"Can I ask you something?" she asked. Unable to verbalise his answer, he took a seat on the opposite log-seat and slightly nodded his head. Honestly, he'd rather not tonight but it could be important, "why did you just fly off like that? From meteor falls, I mean."

"I'd rather not-"

"But Ash," Max added, "you just shot off. Leaving us alone. You knew we couldn't follow Pidgeot. Why run off from us?"

"Because..." he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, "look. A while ago when we were travelling around Johto. We ran into some other bad guys. They we're trying to catch this Pokémon with... less-than-kind tactics. We stopped them but it made sense they we're working alone."

"How could you tell?" she asked.

"Pulling that sort of equipment out of thin air is something that belongs in a cartoon... and they we're known for being a part of an organisation," he muttered with a deep breath, "and we... I didn't do anything. Didn't try to find their hideout or allies or-"

"But that's not you job," Max interjected.

"Maybe not but it's my responsibility," he replied, "and due to my failure to do so... I lost a friend. A good friend."

"Gyarados?" Max asked. His eyes widened as he stared at the young boy. Mouth slightly opened.

"How did you know that, Max?" May asked in an accusatory tone.

"It was the only Pokémon Ash used in his previous leagues but not the silver conference," he replied, "it was always a highlight when watching the leagues. I saw all sorts of theories about why you didn't use it. The most common was she ended up pregnant with several eggs."

"Gyarados was a guy," he frowned, "but because I ignored my responsibility, I ended up suffering. I couldn't let you two or anyone else loose a friend like I did... had I not flown off, imagine what would've happened to Fallarbor or Larvaridge or Mauville or Slateport... everyone we've met in Hoenn was in danger."

"Lance and the G-Men would've stopped them," Max jumped up.

"He's right," May added, "it was dangerous and reckless... do you know what it was like being left alone?"

"More than you realise," he sighed, "but when you have the power to do something... and you don't. Then the bad things happen, they happen because of you. If I have the chance to help someone or stop a bad guy, I'll do it regardless because the alternative is so much worse... I'll understand if you don't want to travel with us-"

"I've known how dangerous it can get since Devon Corp," May shrugged, "I think by yours and Serena side is the best way to stay safe."

"And if I can't travel with you guys, our parents will keep me back home," Max added, with Vigoroth grunting out in a frenzy, slamming his fists onto the ground to emphasis his point, "exactly."

"Point taken," he sighed, "but then don't judge me for doing what I can. Like I said, I won't stand aside and let someone suffer like I did before."

"Our point was, you shouldn't just leave us behind," May stood up, "next time-"

"We might have less options for getting us all to the trouble," he replied, standing up, "sorry but given the situation. I'd exactly the same again."

Not wanting to continue the argument, he turned and walked towards the tent he shares with Serena. She was stood in front of it, dressed in her pyjama's with Brock, clearly in some sort of conversation. As he got closer, Serena stepped inside of their tent as Brock turned towards him.

"Hey," he greeted, "sorry for keeping ya. Just chatted to May and Max."

"Let me guess," Brock smiled, placing a hand on his shoulder, "they're upset over being left behind?"

"Yeah," he nodded, "it's like they-"

"-haven't been travelling and seen all the other weird stuff we've been involved in?" Brock asked, cutting him off, "look Ash, I'm not mad and I'm not going to demand to be brought along next time because given the situation, I know you well enough that you would just run off."

"But Brock-"

"Like I said, I already know, and I didn't say you was wrong," he replied.

"Thanks-"

"I didn't say you was right, either" he replied, "but neither Max or May have been with us for that long. I think their anger is understandable and it comes from a good place."

"So, what are you saying?" he asked, "should I do what I did or next time wait and let other's suffer because of it."

"Only one person can answer that, and it's different for everyone," he smiled, "and I'm just happy enough that even if you do fly off, it'll be with Serena. She can keep you from making worst even if I can't."

"Hey!" he groaned, causing his older brother to chuckle.

"Well today's been one of 'em so I'm gonna head off to bed," he replied, "night."

He raised his hand bye as the doctor-in-training walked away. Turning back, he stepped inside the tent, crouching low he smiled as her saw her kneeling on their laid out sleeping bags. Quickly moving forward onto his knees, he connected their lips. Relaxing at the electricity sizzling through his body. After a few second, he pulled back, reopening his eyes to look into her hypnotic blue orbs.

"I needed that," he sighed.

"It was nice," she nodded, "but before we continue... Sylveon."

"Right, sorry," he shook his head, "what did Brock say?"

"He can't be certain, and when we get to Larvaridge I should have Nurse Joy examine her," she sighed, "but he did have several theories. One was an intense stomach bug but unlikely because someone else might've got it with her... but if she passes it on, then it's more likely."

"What else could it be?" he asked.

"A burst appendix, water infection... she could even be carrying an egg," she shrugged, "either way, we'll be keeping an eye on her, give plenty of rest and water... and can you keep Pidgeot on hand, if she gets worst, I'd like a quick way to get back."

"Of course," he smiled, "whatever you need."

"Actually, I think I'd like to fly off to Larvaridge tomorrow," she replied, "I know it's only a few days walking but-"

"I get it, and of course you can fly on Pidgeot," he replied, "if it's all the same to you, though. I'd like to stick with the other's. I don't think flying off so soon with them being mad about today would be the best thing... and it'll give me chance to clear the air with them."

"Of course... it'll also give me chance to get something planned for our anniversary," she smiled, leaning in to press her lips against his. Closing his eyes, he pushed into her embrace, snaking his arms around her waist. After a little while, they pulled back, "guess we'll need to make the most of tonight."

Her hand reached up and grabbed the zip of his hoodie. Sliding it down, she let the two side flop open as she tentatively reached out and stroked his chest. He felt his heartbeat increase at the contact as he reconnected their lips once more. She returned the affection. Loosing himself within her soft kisses, he felt her hands nimbly pull his hoodie off his torso. They only pulled apart when the need for air took over.

"Lie down," her voice instructed. He opened his eyes to see her moving to the side, gesturing to the sleeping bags, which were unzipped, with one on top of the other. Smiling, he did as told and lied down, stretching his arm out for her to cuddle up to him but instead she twirled a finger around, "turn over."

Pinching his lips together, he was intrigued in what she was up to. Knowing the only way to find out, he rolled onto his stomach, crossing his arms under his head to support them. He soon felt a weight on his lower back, glancing up her saw her straddling him.

Reaching down, she grabbed his shoulders. Kneading in for a massage. Closing his eyes, he smiled. She was never shy about asking him to massage her from time to time but receiving one from her was really enjoyable. "I figured you could use a little relaxation today of all days," she purred.

Maybe he should get them a book to learn the actual way to give a massage... not that she's doing a bad job by any means.

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...