Hello everyone, sorry for the long update, but I had trouble since my laptop is out of business. For now I finally completed this chapter. I also have a few plans for my other stories, but I'll leave them for later. For now some questions answered.

Guest: Sure, but I don't like what you said about my Tales of Berseria and Zestiria story. And no to the my little pony thing, I hate that show.

Anime 100: Find out soon.

Zeusdragon: Soon, but not now.

That's all the questions for now. Enjoy the chapter.


Chapter 10: The start of a new adventure.

It's a sunny day for Pallet Town and its residents. Inside the Ketchum household, Ash was already wide awake in his room, getting ready for his new adventure. He was wearing his new outfit for his adventures in the Hoenn region. Ash was now wearing black cargo pants with a belt of the same colour. For footwear, he had on black sport shoes. He also had a black singlet with a blue short sleeved jacket with red trims along the sides and red pockets. He had a red scarf wrapped around his neck, black fingerless gloves with a red cuff on them. Finally, a red hat with a white Poke Ball logo and a white vizor. Attached to his left glove was his Key Stone, which his mother detach it from his old glove and onto his new one. And around his left waist was his brand new Z-Power Z-Ring with the Electrium Z attached on it.

He has spent the last few days training and spending time with his mom and friends. His friends Gary, Red, and Leaf are already back on their respective journeys. Gary has decided to follow in his grandfather's steps as a Pokémon Researcher, but Ash met up with him before he left. Ash gave him back his side of the broken Poké Ball, which Gary thanked his best friend for, before he left.

Red left to go to the Sinnoh Region to train to become Kanto's new Pokémon League Champion, while Leaf went to Johto, having wanted to see the region that Ash conquered. However, before she left, she gave Ash a kiss on the cheek, making the Rainbow Hero blush. Now, finally, he was ready to set out and start his journey in the Hoenn Region. 'I've trained hard since I've came back from Johto and now I'm ready. With Pikachu, Espeon, Venusaur, Blastoise, Charizard, Latios, Latias, even my new partners Raikou and Marshadow, I'm gonna conquer Hoenn just like with Johto. I'm ready'. Ash thought to himself with eyes full of determination, full of confidence.

Ash took one last look at his room and at himself in the mirror, before nodding to himself. "Let's go". Ash said as he walked towards his bedroom's door and opened it. He walked past the door, closing it on his way, before he headed downstairs. He walked up and opened the front door, where he is greeted by his mother Delia, Professor Oak, Tracey, Pikachu, Espeon, Latios and Latias, waiting for him. "Hey everyone". Ash greeted everyone with a smile on his face as he closed the door. "Good morning Ash". Delia replied to her son with a smile.

"Good morning". Tracy greeted with a smile as well. "Good morning my boy". Professor Oak greeted with a smile. "Pika Pi." Pikachu called out as he climbed up to Ash's right shoulder. 'Good morning Ash'. The Eon twins greeted with a smile.

"Ready for your new adventure in Hoenn?" Delia asked as she gave her son his new black backpack with a red Poke Ball Logo. "I was born ready". Ash replied to his mother with a smirk on his face as he put his back on. "Good to know. Keep catching Pokémon, gaining experience while you travel and training to keep in shape". Professor Oak told Ash with a smile, telling him to not slack off.

"Also, when you need to swap your team, you can count on us". Tracy said to Ash with a smile, getting the raven haired boy to nod to him. During Ash's time during training, he decided to use all his Pokémon in his travels from now on. "I will Professor Oak and Tracey". Ash replied with a smile, promising not to neglect his old Pokémon for his new ones.

"Which Pokémon will you take for now?" Professor Oak asked Ash, wondering which Pokémon that he'll use first. "I'll take Pikachu, Latios, Latias, Marshadow and Raikou. Espeon will stay here for a while". Ash replied to the professor as he knelt down and gave Espeon a pat on the head with his right hand.

"I'd like you to take care of Mom and keep her company for a while". Ash explained to his Psychic type, making Espeon smile as she walked to Delia, who knelt down and gave the Psychic-type a pat on the head as well. "We're going to be good friends''. Delia said with a bright smile, having gotten along with Espeon for the past few days.

Ash smiled at seeing his mother and Espeon get along. "Well, I've got to go". Ash said as he jumped on Latios' back. "Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out as he leaped up from the ground onto his trainer's left shoulder. Latias gave a smile as she flew besides her brother, getting Latios to smile at her. "Good bye, and good luck!" Professor Oak, Tracy and Delia said as they waved at the Rainbow Hero, who returned the waves with his right hand. Even Espeon cried out in goodbye to her trainer.

'Don't worry. We'll take care of Ash'. Latios told the three with a reassuring smile, getting his sister to nod in agreement. 'Yeah, he's more than just our trainer; he's our friend'. Latias added, getting Delia to smile at seeing the two legendries care for her son so much. "Now remember, when you arrive in the Hoenn Region, go to Professor Birch's lab. He'll help you sign up for the Hoenn League, andwill even give you that new Pokédex I told you about". Professor Oak told the Rainbow Hero, getting Ash to look at him and nod.

Ash then gave a smile at his friends and family, before he lifted up his left arm to look down at his Key Stone and Z-Power Ring. He hasn't been able to find any new Mega Stones during his time in his home town, but he has practice the Z-Moves with Marshadow's help and guidance. He's mastered the Electric Z-Move, the Psychic Z-Move and Marshadow's special Z-Move itself. The Rainbow Hero gave a smile, before he looked down at Latios. "Let's go guys!" The Rainbow Hero called out with a confident voice, getting Latios and Latias to cry out, before they shot out like jets and flew away from Pallet Town at an incredible rate. Everyone watched the two Eon Dragons fly away, before they eventually disappeared from sight.


(2 hour later)

Fling across the sea was our hero, Ash Ketchum, with his two trusty partners, Pikachu and Latios. Ash was riding on Latios's back, while Pikachu rode of Ash's right shoulder. Ash had recalled Latias back into her Master Ball for her to keep her energy. "You hanging in there, Latios?" The Rainbow Hero questioned his strongest Pokémon if he was doing alright. 'Please, this is nothing at all! I can handle another 2 hours at this'. Latios replied with a smirk on his face, having no problem flying this fast for so long, making Ash and Pikachu chuckle.

The Rainbow Hero and his two partners have been traveling together by flying over the sea for two hours now with all of them enjoying the flight together. Soon, the Hoenn Region came into view for the Rainbow Hero and his partners. "There it is!" Ash called out with a smile at seeing their destination. "Pika pika!" Pikachu cried out in happiness to see that they've arrive at the Hoenn region.

'Might I suggest landing in the forest? It's quicker to arrive at Professor Birch's lab and it avoids unwanted attention'. Latios suggested to Ash, wishing to not cause a scene that'll attract attention. "You have a point there, we can never be to careful". Ash said in agreement to what Latios said, wanting to keep his personal space for the moment.

Latios flew down towards the forest that was near the town that was Littleroot Town. The Eon Dragon flew down into the forest, before Latios checked left and right and saw nobody close by. 'I think this should do'. Latios said as he floated down to the ground, before Ash and Pikachu jumped off his back and landed on their feet. "Thanks Latios. Take a break for now". Ash thanked his partner as he brought out Latios's Master Ball with his right hand. The device fired a red beam at Latios, covering him for view for a moment, before he was recalled into the Master Ball, which closed. Ash put the device away, before he turned to look at his best friend.

"Let's go Pikachu". Ash said to his first Pokémon with a smile. "Pika pi!" Pikachu cried out in agreement, before both him and Ash began walking to Professor Birch's lap, besides each other. The two best friends walked together for 5 minutes in peace, before it was eventually broken by a frightened female scream, getting Ash and Pikachu to widen their eyes in surprise. "Pikachu, did you hear that?" Ash asked his buddy, getting the Electric-type to look up at him and nod.

"Pikachu". Pikachu replied to his partner with narrowed eyes. "Let's go check it out". Ash told his friend, before they began running in the direction that the scream came from. Ash rounded a tree and came to a stop near the edge of a small cliff. There, at the bottom, he saw a young 10-year-old girl with brown hair being surrounded by a pack of Pokémon with her back against a tree. The girl had brown hair that was in an upside down V shape with a small ponytail at the back of her head. She wore an orange tank top with a black undershirt, white shorts with black bike mini-leggings underneath, yellow and black ankle boots with orange soles, a red and white bandana/handkerchief and a yellow and green fanny pack around her waist.

There were a total of six Pokémon surrounding her with three of them being different than the other. The first three were quadrupedal Pokémon similar in appearance to hyenas and canines. Their bodies were primarily gray with a black face and throat, paws, and belly. Their eyes were red with yellow sclerae, and have red noses. Their lower jaw has two pointed teeth sticking out. The fur at the base of the tails is rumpled and shaggy. Finally, they have gray paw pads on its three-toed paws. The remaining three were quadrupedal Pokémon that were based on hyenas. Their fur is mostly short and gray, but there is shaggy black fur on its lower legs, tail, and in two thick strips starting behind their eyes and running the length of its body. They have dark, triangular streak patterns below their eyes, which were red with yellow sclerae. Its ears were rhombus-shaped with dark insides, the noses are red, and they have gray paw pads.

"That girl's in trouble. She needs help!" Ash exclaimed in alarm as he looked at Pikachu, who nodded up to him. "Let's go give her a hand". The Rainbow Hero told his best friend with a determine look. "Pika!" Pikachu replied to his partner with a nod, before the two looked down the cliff.

The young girl, whose name was May Maple, whimpered from her position on the ground. Earlier, she close to arriving at Professor Birch's lab, having rode on her bike, when her tire hit a pothole, causing her to lose control and slid down a slope. She landed hard on her butt and landed on something soft that whined loudly. When she regained her bearings, she saw a small scratched up Poochyena, along with two more of them, along with three angry Mightyenas. May had attempted to apologize, but that did little to calm them.

The Mightyena had teared her bike to shreds, leaving her defenseless at the mercy of the Dark-types. "Someone please help me!" May cried out in fear in fear as the three Mightyena were closing in on her. Suddenly, out of nowhere, Ash and Pikachu dropped down from the air and landed in front of May, surprising her, the Mightyena and Poochyena. The Rainbow Hero lifted his head up and looked at the six Dark-types with narrowed eyes. "Pikachu, go check on her and make sure she's okay". Ash told his partner, getting Pikachu to look up and nod to him, before he ran up to the shaking May. "Pika?" Pikachu said to May with a concerned look. May looked at the little yellow mouse, who gave her an innocent look.

The brunette girl smiled down slightly at Pikachu. "I'm okay". May told Pikachu, getting the Electric Mouse to give out a 'chu' with a smile making her giggle. Ash stared into the eyes of the growling Mightyenas without a hint of fear. After a few moments of staring, all three Mightyena stopped growling, picked up one of the Poochyenas, before they all walked away.

Ash gave a sigh as he got back up on his feet, before he turned to look at the girl. "Hey, are you okay?" Ash asked in concern as he walked up to the brunette and held his right hand. May stared up at the Rainbow Hero for a few moments with wide eyes, before she lifted her right hand up and took his hand, before Ash pulled her up to her feet. "Yeah, I'm okay… though I can't say the same for my bike". May moaned at the end as she turned to look at the tattered remains of her bike, before she widened her eyes and turned to look back at Ash. "Oh I'm May Maple by the way". May introduced herself to Ash with a smile.

The Rainbow Hero smiled at he pointed to himself with his right hand's thumb. "The name is Ash Ketchum, and I come from Pallet Town in the Kanto region. This is my partner, Pikachu". Ash introduced himself and Pikachu with a smile as he pointed down at the Electric-type. "Pika, Pikachu". Pikachu greeted May with a wave with his right hand. "Nice to meet you two". May said to Ash and Pikachu with a smile.

"What were you doing all the way out here anyway?" The raven haired boy asked May, wondering why she's out here all alone. "I was heading to Professor Birch's laboratory, before my bike hit a pothole and I ended up flying down here". May answered, telling Ash what happened to her. "What a coincidence. I'm on my way to Professor Birch's lab as well. I'm going to be registering for the Hoenn League. What about you?" Ash asked with a smile, wanting to know why May is heading to Professor Birch's laboratory. "I'm going there to get my first Pokémon". May replied to the Rainbow Hero, getting him to widen his eyes in fascination.

"You're getting your starter Pokémon? You must be psyched!" Ash exclaimed with a smile, which May giggled nervously at him. "Yeah… psyched". May said to Ash, before she turned to the side. "Yeah right". The brunette whispered as she actually didn't like Pokémon and only wanted to travel. "How about we go together?" Ash offered, getting May to widen her eyes in surprise as she turned to look at the Rainbow Hero, before she gave a smile.

"Sure". May replied with a smile, getting Ash to return the smile. Pikachu climbed onto Ash's right shoulder, before both the Rainbow Hero and brunette began to walk towards the lab with Ash leading the way. During the walk there, May kept looking at Ash, who was leading the way to the lab, with fascination. 'His name sounds familiar. Where did I hear that name before?' May thought to herself in confusion, thinking that she might have heard of Ash's name before today. She gave a shrug with her shoulders and decided to forget about it.

Soon, Ash and May arrived at Professor Birch's lab. They walked up to the front door, before the Rainbow Hero knocked on the door two times with his right hand and waited. The door soon opened to reveal a young man with green hair, wearing a lab coat and glasses. "Hello there. I'm Joshua, Prof. Birch's assistant". The young man introduced himself, before he noticed May behind Ash.

"Oh, you must be May. I assume you're here to pick your starter Pokémon?" The young man asked May, which she nodded to him. Joshua then turned to look at Ash. "And you must be Ash, correct?" Joshua asked the Rainbow Hero, which Ash nodded to him as well. "Excellent, Professor Birch has just returned and is waiting for both of you". Joshua told the two trainers, before he began to lead them to Professor Birch.

The three of them walked through the door and into the back to see a large man with brown hair and a beard, wearing a lab coat, sitting down on a table and was jotting down notes. "Professor Birch, they're here!" Joshua told his boss as he entered the room with Ash, May and Pikachu behind him. Professor Birch looked up and saw his assistant, along with the two young children and Pikachu. "Ah yes of course, thank you Joshua''. Professor Birch thanked his assistant, which Joshua gave him a nod, before he left.

The Professor then looked at both young Trainers with a smile. "Oh my, May. You've certainly have grown since the last time I saw you". Professor Birch greeted May with a smile as he stood up from his seat, making May blush slightly at his words. "Nice to see you too Professor Birch". May replied back to her father's old with a smile.

Professor Birch then turned to look at Ash with wonder, having not expected another visitor. "And you are?" Professor Birch asked Ash for his name, who gave him a small smile. "My name is Ash Ketchum, Professor Birch, and this is Pikachu". Ash replied to the Professor of Hoenn, introducing himself and Pikachu. "Pika". Pikachu greeted with a friendly smile on his face. Professor Birch's reaction was quite hilarious as his eyes went wide and he spoke in a special awe filled tone. "You mean THE Ash Ketchum!" Professor Birch exclaimed in awe, making Ash, Pikachu and May sweet drop. "Yeah". Ash replied slowly as he slowly edged back from the professor of the Hoenn Region.

"My goodness!" Professor Birch gushed out in excitement. "I've heard all about you from Kanto's Professor Oak during the Silver Conference, but I wasn't able to catch any of your battles. Tell me young man, are you really in possession of the legendary Eon Dragons Latios and Latias?" Professor Birch questioned in excitement, getting May to look at Ash in confusion, having no idea who Latios or Latias are. "Yes I am". Ash answered with a slightly nervous smile, increasing Birch's excitement tenfold. "My boy, you must let me research them while you're here. This is a once in a lifetime chance. Please let me see them?" Professor Birch begged Ash to let him see Latios and Latias, getting his nervous smile to grow a bit more.

"Okay, no problem". Ash replied with a nervous smile, which Pikachu copied with his own nervous look. "Um… Professor Birch". May said nervously, getting Professor Birch's attention as he turned to look at her, before he widened his eyes in realization. "Oh yeah. Right this way". The professor said as he led them away towards the back room where there were three Poké Balls on a table. "All right May. Inside these Poke Balls are one of three starter Pokémon. Your choices are a Treecko". Professor Birch said as he took one of the Poké Ball into his right hand and threw it into the air.

The device burst opened and released a bright white beam that struck the ground. The beam cleared to reveal a small, green, bipedal reptilian Pokémon. It had yellow eyes with long, narrow pupils. Its hands and feet each had three digits covered with tiny spikes. Its stomach and throat were red. It also had a line across its stomach resembling a pouch. The creature known as Treecko had a large, dark green tail with two separate lobes. "Tree Treecko". Treecko greeted with a smile as it looked up at Professor Birch, Ash, May and Pikachu.

"Wow, cool". Ash said in awe as he leaned down to get a closer look. "This one's a Grass-type, right?" The Rainbow Hero questioned with a fascinated voice, which Prof. Birch nodded to him. "That's correct Ash". Professor Birch replied to the Rainbow Hero as Treecko turned to look at May, who backed away from it. "I don't know. It looks weird". May remarked, a little bit creeped out. "I don't think it's weird". Ash replied to May as he really liked Treecko and wondered if he could get his own.

Prof. Birch then picked up the next Poké Ball with his right hand. "Coming up next is Mudkip". Birch said as he threw the device into the air. The device burst opened and released a bright white beam that struck the ground. The beam cleared to reveal a small, amphibious, quadrupedal Pokémon. It had a blue body with a light-blue underside. Mudkip had a large head with a blue fin on top and a light-blue tail fin. Finally, it has black, beady eyes and orange, star-shaped gills on its cheeks. "Mudkip". The Water-type greeted with a smile on its face.

"Cool, this must be the Water starter, right?" Ash asked as he looked down at the Water-type, which Prof. Birch nodded once more. "Correct again. You're really perceptive". Professor Birch said in an impressed tone. May took a look at Mudkip for a few moments, until she shakes her head, giving her answer. Prof. Birch then picked up the last device with his right hand.

"And last, but not least, is the Fire-type Torchic". Birch said as he threw the device into the air. The device burst opened and released a bright white beam that struck the ground. The beam cleared to reveal a small, chick Pokémon with stubby, downy, yellow wings. Its body is covered with orange feathers. There was a orange and yellow crest on its head that resembled a flame. Its two thin legs and short beak are a light brownish yellow, and the feet had three toes in front and one in the back. "Torchic tor". The Fire-type greeted, getting May to instantly adore it. "It looks cute. I'll take it." May said as she crouched down and picked up the Fire-type. "Hello Torchic". May greeted with a smile, which Torchic chirped happily and nuzzled itself against May's cheek, making her laugh. "That tickles!" May laughed out in happiness, getting Ash, Professor Birch and Pikachu to smile at him

"Well, I'm glad you got your first Pokémon". Professor Birch said to May, before he turned to look at Treecko and Mudkip. He returned to two to their Poké Balls, before he turned to look at the Rainbow Hero. "Now Ash, what did you come here for?" Birch asked Ash with a curious tone, getting him to look up at the older male. "I came here to get a Pokédex that Professor Oak told me to get from you". Ash answered the Professor of Hoenn, getting him to lit up his face. "Oh, I see. Let me get you the Pokédex that Professor Oak told me to give you". The Hoenn Region professor said as he walked up to a cupboard and pulled one of the drawers out. He picked up two things from inside the drawer and turned around to show the two Pokédexs.

They looked similar to each other, but still looked completely different. (One was the Pokédex from Ruby and Safire, the other was the one from Omega Ruby and Alpha Safire) Professor Birch handed the smaller one to May, before he walked up to the computer in the room. May held her new Pokédex with her right hand and looked at it in awe and held Torchic with her left hand, while Ash and Pikachu patiently awaited. Soon, Professor Birch was finished signing up Ash for the Hoenn League and turned around to face him. "All done, here is your new Pokédex, Ash". Professor Birch said to Ash with a smile as he handed the Pokédex to him, which the Rainbow Hero took with his right hand. "Awesome, thanks Professor Birch". Ash thanked the professor with a smile as he looked at his new Pokédex for a moment, before he put it away.

"Now, I don't mean to be pushy, but can I please see your two Pokémon?" Professor Birch requested, making Ash and Pikachu laugh lightly, before they nodded at him. "Alright, but we better do it outside". Ash said as he turned around and walked out of the room. May turned to look up at Professor Birch with a curious expression. "What exactly are these two Pokémon you're so interested in, Professor?" May asked the Professor as she and Birch followed after the Rainbow Hero.

Professor Birch turned to look at May with a serious look on his face. "The two Pokémon in his possession that I want to see are known as the two legendary Eon Dragons, Latios and Latias. They are very legendary Pokémon, being very powerful and very rare. Most humans are lucky to see one, but for someone to be in possession of both of them is unheard of. That's why it is a lifetime opportunity to see them both". Professor Birch explained to May about Latios and Latias and how they're legendary Pokémon, getting May and Torchic to look in awe.

"Wow, that's impressive". May said in awe as she looked at Ash's back. Soon, they all were outside in the open area besides the lab. Ash brought out his two Master Balls with both his hands and enlarged them. "Alright Latios and Latias, come on out!" Ash called out as he threw his two Master Balls into the air, which burst open and released bright white beams. The beams cleared to reveal two Eon Dragons with double loud coos, before they flew back down and floated in front of Ash. Latias nuzzled Ash's face, cooing happily, while Latios eyed May, Prof. Birch and Torchic in suspicion, who were all looking at them in awe.

Ash took notice as he placed his hands on Latias' cheeks. "It's alright Latios, they're friends. Professor Birch just wants to take a look at you two". Ash told Latios as he rubbed Latias' cheek gently, while Pikachu jumped onto her head. Latios turned to look at Ash for a second, before he gave a nod to him. 'Very well Ash'. Latios replied to his partner lowering his guard, getting Latias' attention as she turned to look at their audience

Professor Birch looked at the two legendary Pokémon in awe with sparkles in his eyes. "I never thought I'd see the both of them". Professor Birch said in awe as he went forward and examined both Dragon-types without touching them. "Magnificent… amazing". Professor Birch whispered in awe as he kept examined the two legendries, much to their slightly confusion as they watched him with wide eyes.

"Oh, they're so beautiful". May gushed out with stars in her eyes from seeing the two beautiful dragons. "Torchic". Torchic said in agreement, staring up at Latios and Latias with wide eyes. Latias heard May and Torchic's words, getting her to smile as she flew over to the brunette and cooed. May looked startled at first, before smiling at Latias. Latias cooed again and nuzzled May's face, getting her to laugh as petted Latias softly on the head with her right hand. Latios fully relaxed now after seeing his sister trust the girl.

Professor Birch finished his quick inspection and turned to look at Ash. "They're magnificent, Ash. I know that I have no right to ask, but could you please spend the night here and allow me to research them a bit more?" The professor requested, getting Ash to raise an eyebrow, before he turned to look at Latios. He gave his partner an unspoken message, which Latios got as he gave Ash a nod, telling him that he was already being inspected a bit more. The Rainbow Hero smiled, before he turned to look at Professor Birch. "Sure, it'll give me time to plan things out". The Rainbow Hero answered, getting Professor Birch to let out a cry of joy. Ash and Pikachu then turned to look at Latias and saw her still nuzzling May with Torchic watching the two.


(The next day)

Just like Ash agreed too, he, Pikachu, Latios and Latias spend yesterday at Professor Birch's lap, allowing Professor Birch to do a bit more research of the two Eon Dragons. Even May stuck around, spending time with her new Torchic and with Latias as she's grown to like the red Eon Dragon very much. Even Pikachu played around with Torchic, Latias and May, while Ash and Latios watched them. The next day soon came and it was time for Ash and his Pokémon to leave. Right now, Ash was standing across Professor Birch and his assistant with Pikachu on his left shoulder, and May standing besides him on his right.

"Now, you two will have to register for the Hoenn League at the nearest Pokémon Center you can find, okay?" Professor Birch told the two trainers, getting Ash to nod to him. "And the closest town where I think you'll be able to find one is Oldale Town". Joshua told the two, getting Ash's attention as he turned to look at him. "Okay, thanks". The Rainbow Hero thanked, before May groaned as she folded her hands behind her head. "Walking all that way alone makes me nervous. And my bike's destroyed". The brunette stated, getting Ash's attention as he turned to look at her, before he grew a smile.

"In that case, why not travel with me then?" Ash suggested to the brunette, getting May to look at him in surprise. "Really?" May asked in surprise, which Ash nodded to her. "Sure, I don't have a problem with it. Besides, I like traveling with others". The raven haired boy replied to her, getting May to smile in triumphant. "Yes". She whispered, but Ash heard her as his face morphed in confusion. "That's a great idea, you can look after one another". Professor Birch said in approval as he liked the idea. "Yes, be careful". Joshua told the two young trainer, getting Ash to smile at him. "Don't worry, we'll be fine. See ya around". Ash bid farewell with a confident smile on his face.

"Pika". Pikachu bid good-bye as well, while May lifted her right hand up and gave a wave. "See ya soon". The brunette bid farewell, before she and Ash began walking away, starting their journey together. Professor Birch and Joshua waved goodbye to the two young trainers as they walked away.

Half an hour soon passed since Ash and Pikachu met May in Littleroot Town, May got her first Pokémon, met Professor Birch and set out together for Oldale Town. They were now walking down on a path in the forest with Ash leading the way and May besides him. "Ash, can you tell me again about what type of Pokémon is Torchic?" May asked her new friend nicely, getting the Rainbow Hero's attention as he and Pikachu turned to look at her. "Of course. Torchic is a Fire-type". Ash answered with a smile, having experienced with Fire-types before.

However, something then just jumped out of the forest and landed a few feet away from the trainers in the path, getting Ash, May and Pikachu to look at it. The Pokémon in front of them was a gray bipedal fox like Pokémon with large tuft of fur that is coloured blue. It also had red eyes, blue eyelids, blue circular markings that resembled eyebrows, and its four limbs are also blue.

"Who's that Pokémon?" Ash asked in wonder, having never seen this Pokémon before. "I don't know". May replied to Ash, having never seen this one as well. "Pika pi". Pikachu said in wonder with wide eyes, having never seen this Pokémon before. The wild Pokémon took notice of Ash and May looking at it, getting the unknown Pokémon to at them with narrowed eyes.

"I know. I'll check it on my Pokédex". May said with a smile as she brought out her Hoenn Pokédex and attempted to scan the unknown Pokémon, only to receive a surprise. "No data". The Pokédex said as it showed a question mark, which caused May to sigh in disappointment. "What a disappointment". May said in disappointment that her Pokédex doesn't know about this Pokémon. She placed it away in her fanny pack, while Ash brought out his Pokédex with his right hand.

"I'll try with mine". Ash told May as he scanned the unknown Pokémon, which actually worked as it showed an image of it, but it had a different color on the screen. "Zorua, the Tricky Fox Pokémon. To protect themselves from danger, they hide their true identities by transforming into people and Pokémon". The Pokédex buzzed, getting Ash to raise an eyebrow as he looked up at the Zoura in front of them, who was watching them with narrowed eyes.

Ash took another look at the picture of the Zorua on the Pokédex, before he looked at the one in front of them. "So it's a Zorua. The Zorua in front of us is different from the one pictured in my Pokédex. A regular Zorua has red eyelids, markings, and tuft of hair, while having blue eyes. That means that this one is a shiny Zorua". Ash said with a smirk at finding a rare Pokémon so soon. "Pikachu!" The Electric-type remarked with a smirk on his face, while May looked at the two partners in confusion.

"A shiny Pokémon? What's that?" May asked in confusion, not knowing about the difference between normal and shiny Pokémon. "You see May, a shiny Pokémon is said to have different colouring than the regular. They're quite rare in the wild". Ash explained to the brunette without looking at her, his interest filled eyes glued onto Zoura.

May's eyes gained stars in them after listening to the Rainbow Hero's words. "Wow, they must be even more amazing than the regular wild ones. I want to catch it. Let me try this one, please?" May begged Ash to let her have a shot, getting him to look at her, before he smiled. "Okay, no problem". Ash replied to May with a smile as he stepped back. "Pika!" Pikachu cried out in encouragement for May to do her best. The brunette smiled at them as she stepped forward, before she looked towards Zoura, who was staring at her.

"Okay Torchic, let's go!" May called out as she brought out and threw her Poké Ball with her right hand, releasing the little chick. "Tor Torchic". Torchic called out in joy as she landed on her feet across the Dark-type. "Okay, now what do I do?'' May questioned with a confused look, having no idea how to battle, making Ash and Pikachu sweat drop. "You can tell Torchi to use Ember, that's a start''. Ash told May as he placed his hands in his pockets, getting her to smile at him.

"Okay then. Torchic use your Ember!" May ordered her starter, thrusting her right hand out. Torchic cried out and fired small flames at the wild Zorua, but it leaped into the air and dodged. "En!" Zorua cried out as it formed and fired a large black orb at May's Torchic, which scored a direct hit. "Oh no, hang in there Torchic!" May calls out in concern for her starter, but Torchic was already knocked out as she crashed onto the ground with swirls in her eyes. "Talk about a one-hit wonder, I'm impressed". Ash remarked with an impressed look on his face. "Pikachu". Pikachu said in agreement, impressed with the Dark-type's power so far.

May recalled her Torchic back to her Poké Ball, before turning her head to look at Ash. "What was that attack?" May questioned Ash on what attack Zoura used, while the Dark-type landed on the ground and chuckled. "That was a Shadow Ball, a Ghost-type move. You've had your turn and now it's my turn". Ash replied to May with a smirk as he stepped forward, facing Zorua, who focused its attention on the Rainbow Hero. "You're up, buddy''. Ash told Pikachu with a smile, which the Electric-type returned with a smirk as he jumped off his best friend's shoulder and landed on all four feet, facing Zorua.

(Ash and Pikachu V.S Zorua)

"En!" Zorua called out as it charged up another Shadow Ball and fired it at Pikachu. "Oh please, like that will work on us! Pikachu, use Iron Tail!" Ash called out as he held his right hand out. "Pika!" Pikachu cried out as his tail glowed bright white, before he slammed it into the Shadow Ball, sending it back at Zorua.

"En!?" Zorua cried out in surprise, before it was hit by the Shadow Ball, but Zorua kept its ground and withstood the attack, glaring at Pikachu. Zorua then screamed, creating a blue wave of energy that hit Pikachu, who withstood the attack as well with gritted teeth. "Hyper Voice, huh. Too bad that its nothing compared to Pikachu's Focus Punch!" Ash called out as Pikachu's right paw glowed white, before he charged past the Hyper Voice and slammed his glowing paw into Zorua, making the Dark-type cry out in pain.

Zorua slammed into the ground from Pikachu's Focus Punch, while the Electric-type landed in front of Ash on both feet. "Rrrraaa!'' Zorua called out as it stood on its four feet, before its body became outlined in orange, before it charged and slammed into Pikachu, causing him to cry out in pain. "That was Counter!" Ash called out in surprise as Pikachu landed on his back in front of Ash, while Zorua lands on its feet.

Zorua's eyes then glowed light blue, before it raised its front two paws into the air. Its body then became surrounded in a crimson aura. Zorua then brought its paws down onto the ground, before a pink and crimson force field of energy appears around Zorua's body, and expanded outwards throughout the whole battlefield, heading towards Pikachu. "Ash, Pikachu, watch out!'' May called out to her two new friends in concern, but Ash just gave a confident smirk.

(Play Pokémon Heroes of Hoenn music)

"You've had your fun Pikachu, but playtimes over! Show em your Volt Tackle, Pikachu!" Ash called out with a smirk of confidence on his face. "Pikachu pika!" Pikachu called out, before he backflipped onto his feet, then started charging at Zoura with his body starting to be covered in electricity.

Pikachu's Volt Tackle slammed into Zorua's attack, which Pikachu started to push back, before he gave out a big cry as he finally pushed the attack back and tackled Zoura, making the tricky fox Pokémon cry out in pain as it was sent to the ground with swirls in its eyes. The electricity surrounding Pikachu's body dispersed as the Electric-type leaped back and landed in front of Ash, who brought out an Ultra Ball with his right hand.

"And that's game!'' Ash called out as he threw the Ultra Ball at the knocked out Zoura, hitting the Dark-type on the head, before the device absorbed Zoura inside. The Ultra ball shook a few times on the ground, before stopping with three stars appearing over it, showing that the capture was complete.

"Alright, we've done it!" Ash called out in joy as he walked to the Ultra Ball, before he knelt down and picked it up with his right hand. He then stood up and hold the Ultra Ball up into the air with a smile. "We caught Zoura!" Ash called out in joy at his first catch in the Hoenn Region. "Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out in joy as he did the peace sign with his right hand.

(Music end)

"I'm glad that you caught that Zorua, but what about my Torchic?" May questioned Ash in concern for her starter, holding Torchic's Poké Ball with both her hands. "Don't worry May. Once we get to the Pokémon Center, Torchic's energy can be restored right there". The Rainbow Hero told the brunette with a smile as he put Zorua's Ultra ball away in his pocket. "You think so?" May asked Ash if he was certain, which he nodded to her. "I know so". Ash replied to May with a smile as Pikachu climbed onto his right shoulder. "What are we waiting for? Let's go!" May called out as she took off past the Rainbow Herp, which Ash chased after her with Pikachu hanging on tight.

Ash and May kept running down the path, heading towards the closest Pokémon Center with Pikachu still riding on Ash's shoulder. They soon saw a bunch of boulders around an old pair of ruins. "I wonder what those rocks are for". Ash said in wonder, stopping to look at the rocks up the cliff. May took notice of the rocks, and the two stop for a while to look at the rocks. "It looks like it might be a bunch of old buildings, Ash". May told her new friend, turning to look at him. "Pika". Pikachu said in agreement to what May said.

"Well, actually these are the ruins of Oldale". An unexpected voice said, before a young man that had spiky brown hair and looked like a young adult wearing explorer's clothes walked up to them. "I'm Professor Alden, and I'm here investigating them". The young Professor introduced himself with a smile.

"I'm Ash, and this is my partner Pikachu". Ash introduced himself and his best friend with a smile with Pikachu waving at the professor. "My name's May, nice to meet you". May introduced herself with a smile.

"Nice to meet you both. So tell me, where you two are going in such a big hurry?" Professor Alden asked the two young trainers on why they were in a hurry. "We're trying to find the Pokémon Center. May's Torchic is in bad shape". Ash replied to Alden, telling him their reasons for being in a hurry. "Ahhh, you're almost there. It's just right over this hill". Alden told the Rainbow Hero as he turned around and looked down the hill, where a Pokémon Center awaited. Ash, May and Pikachu all smiled at seeing the building. "That's great!" Ash stated with a wide smile on his face. "Thanks a bunch". May thanked Professor Alden, before she and Ash began running towards the building. "Pika". Pikachu thanked the professor as well, who just watched the two trainers run towards the Pokémon Center.

Soon, Ash and May arrived at the Pokémon Center at sunset. They went up to the front desk where Nurse Joy is. "Nurse Joy, could you please help my Torchic?" May asked Nurse Joy, holding up Torchic's Poké Ball. "No problem". Nurse Joy replies to May as she took the Poké Ball, before she put the device away on a device behind her. "Does it look okay?" May asked Nurse Joy as she began typing away on the device's keyboard.

"One more second". Nurse Joy told May as she presses a few buttons to check on Torchic's status and after a few seconds, she's done. "Torchic is fine. A good night sleep is all your Torchic needs". Nurse Joy told May with a smile, getting her to smile in relief to hear that her starter is fine. "Thank goodness". May said in relief at hearing Torchic was okay. "Feeling better now May?" Ash asked May if she was feeling alright now. The brunette turned to look at the Rainbow Hero and nod with a smile. "Pika-pika". Pikachu remarked from Ash's left shoulder with a smile on his face.

"You know; I think a good night's sleep would do you some good as well". Nurse Joy told Ash and May, thinking it would be best if they rest up as well. "Yeah". Both Ash and May replied to Nurse Joy with a smile. "Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out in agreement to what Nurse Joy said.

The two friends then walked away from the front desk and were taking a walk around the Pokémon Center. "Hey Ash, I was wondering". May suddenly said, getting Ash and Pikachu's attention as the Rainbow Hero turned to look at her. "Yeah, what's up?" Ash replied to May with a curious look on his face. "Well, I was thinking. Now that I'm in a Pokémon Center, will you show me around?" May asked Ash as she held her hands slightly up, getting the raven haired boy to lightly smile as he placed his hands on his hips. "Sure, why not. But first I need to call someone before I do". Ash replied to May as they went to the nearest videophone, where the Rainbow Hero made his phone call.

Ash pressed a few buttons, holding the phone next to his ear with his left hand and waited. Soon, the screen turned on to show Professor Oak. "Hey Professor Oak, I'm just calling to tell you that I arrived to Oldale Town". Ash told Professor Oak about his progress so far. "Wonderful Ash. It's always nice to hear from you and Pikachu". Professor Oak replied to the Rainbow hero with a smile. "Pikachu". Pikachu greeted, waving at Professor Oak.

"Also, I got to meet Professor Birch. I also just finished registering for the Hoenn League, Professor. So I'm ready to earn my first new badge". Ash told Professor Oak with a smirk on his face, while May gained a look of amazement on her face. "It sounds to me like another big adventure for you, young man". Professor Oak replied to Ash with a smile, happy that Ash will have another great adventure. Ash nodded at Professor Oak with a smile, before he widened his eyes as he remembered something. "Oh yeah, this is a new friend I made when I arrived in Littleroot Town". Ash told Professor Oak as he held his right hand up and gestured to May by his side.

"Hi, it's an honor to meet you. My name is May Maple". May greeted Professor Oak with a bright smile. "Well hello May. I'm Professor Samuel Oak from Pallet Town". The Professor greeted May back with a smile. "Yeah I know you. My brother never misses any of your radio lectures, and when he finds out that I've been talking to you, he'll be so jealous". May told Professor Oak, making him sweat drop anime style.

"How nice". Professor Oak said with a nervous smile on his face. "Of course I know that I'm a beginning trainer, but I promise that I'll work hard". May told Professor Oak, promising to do her best at being a trainer.

"Well May, with Ash by your side, you should do very well. I wish the both of you a safe and successful journey". Professor Oak told Ash and May with a smile on his face. "Thanks". Ash and May both thanked Professor Oak for his words. "Pika Pika". Pikachu waved goodbye to Professor Oak, before the call ended with the screen turning off.

Later on, Ash was showing May around the Pokémon Center. He opened a door to a bedroom and showed it to her "This room is where trainers sleep in between journeys". Ash told May, who looked past him and saw two bunk beds that looked nice. "Not too shabby". May said with an impressed look on her face.

Ash then took May to the lobby, where a few Pokémon Trainers were gathered. "This is the lobby, where trainers can hang around and share information with one another". Ash explained to May, trying to keep his cool to not get noticed by anyone that might know him. "Information? Like where the shopping malls are? Where the best places to eat are, and also the best clothing stores are, things like that?" May asked in excitement, making Ash chuckle while having a sweat drop on his forehead. "Not exactly May. They're talking about Pokémon related stuff''. The Rainbow Hero told the brunette, still sweat dropping with Pikachu doing the same.

Just then, a conversation caught the two trainer's attention. "I heard that there is this new Gym Leader over at the Petalburg Gym". A young male trainer said to a female trainer with another training listening in. "Are you sure?" The female trainer asked the male trainer to be sure. "Yeah". The male trainer replied to the female trainer.

Ash walked up to the two trainers with an interested expression. "Can you tell me more about this new Gym Leader?" Ash asked the two trainers if they could tell him more, getting the two trainer's attentions. However, before the two trainers had the chance to tell Ash anything, May grabbed his left arm and pulled him back. "Come on Ash". May said to the Rainbow Hero as she pulled him away, getting Ash to look at her in surprise. "May, I'm trying to find out more about the Petalburg Gym Leader". Ash said to May with a frown on his face. "How about you do that later. I'm actually starving quite a bit, so let's go eat". May replied to the Rainbow Hero with a smile and her eyes closed.

Ash sighed with his eyes closed, before he pointed down a hallway with his right hand's index finger. "Go down this hall and you'll find where they keep the food''. Ash told May about which way to go, making her look at her friend in confusion. "What about you? Aren't you coming?'' May asked Ash in confusion, wondering if he'll eat dinner with her.

"I got training to do with my Pokémon. Isn't that right buddy?'' Ash told May, before looking at his partner Pokémon, who gave him a grin. "Pika pika". Pikachu replied to Ash with a smile on his face, ready for some training. "Alright, but don't stay out to long okay''. May said to Ash and Pikachu, telling them not to stay out late.

"We got it". The raven haired replied to the brunette as he walked out of the Pokémon Center and into the forest, looking for a place to train with Pikachu. Soon, Ash and Pikachu found an open field, a perfect area for training. "This'll do''. Ash said with a smile as he brought out his two Master Balls, Dusk Ball and the two Ultra Balls with both his hands.

"Come on out everyone!'' Ash called out as he threw all the balls into the air, releasing Latios, Latias, Raikou, Marshadow and Zorua, who all appeared in front of him. 'Finally, some fresh air'. Marshadow said in relief as he strech his arms out, while Raikou looked around their surroundings. 'I'm never gonna get used to being stuck in such a small place'. Latios said to himself, floating in the sky with his paws out, while Raikou took notice of the new addition.

'Although, it seems we have a new friend'. Raikou told his legendary comrades, looking at the Zorua, who was looking at him, Latios, Latias and Marshadow in awe. Raikou's words caught the attention of the other legendary Pokémon as they looked at the shiny Zorua, who grew a bit nervous at their staring.

'A Zorua'. Marshadow said in surprise to see the tricky fox Pokémon here in Hoenn. 'He's so cute!' Latias cried out in joy as she picked up and hugged the tricky fox Pokémon, who let out some unhappy cries, which Ash understood what the tricky fox Pokémon was saying. "Latias, that Zorua's a girl, not a boy''. Ash told the only female legendary Pokémon of his team, making Latias widen her eyes in surprise.

'Oh, I'm sorry'. Latias apologized to the female tricky fox Pokémon, which Zorua still looked unhappy about being confused as a boy. "Everyone, this is the new member of our family, Zorua". Ash told his team as he took Zorua from Latias and held the tricky fox Pokémon with both his arms, scratching the female fox's neck with his left hand, making Zorua smile at the feeling.

"We have training to do guys, and there's no better time than now. Whose with me?" Ash said to his Pokémon team with a smile. 'Yeah/ Pika pika/ Raa!" The legendary Pokémon, Pikachu and Zorua called out in agreement to what Ash said. "That's what I like to hear. Let's get started!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed with a smirk on his face as the team got ready to train.


(3 hours later)

Ash spent the next 3 hours training his whole team of Pokémon, while taking it easy on Zorua since she's new to the group. They made good progress with Latios learning Steel Wing, Zorua using her ability for training and Ash and Pikachu practicing their Z-moves a little more with Marshadow's help.

All in all, things went well with Ash now on his way back to the Pokémon Center with Pikachu on his right shoulder and Zorua on his left shoulder. "Well that was fun". Ash said to Pikachu and Zorua, getting cries of agreement in return. Ash soon reached the front of the Pokémon Center, but the door didn't open, making the Rainbow Hero narrow his eyes in suspicion.

"That's not a good sign". Ash stated as he walked to the back of the Pokémon Center towards the backdoor. The Rainbow Hero grabbed hold of the handle to the door and twisted it, which thankfully, opened the door. The Rainbow Hero walked in, closing the door behind him, before he began walking down the dark hall, looking for anyone. "May, where are you!" Ash called out in hopes for May to answer to him. "Pikapi! / En!" Pikachu and Zorua called out as, hoping that May will hear them.

"Ash! Is that you!?" A familiar voice cried out, getting Ash to look left to see that the voice was coming from a locked door. "May, I'll get ya out of there in a jiffy!" Ash called out as he ran up to the door, before he stopped and looked down at Pikachu. "Pikachu, knock this thing down with Iron Tail". The Rainbow Hero told his partner, which Pikachu nodded to him with narrowed eyes. "Pikachu-pi!" The Electric-type cried out as he leaped off of Ash's shoulder and into the air. Pikachu's tail glowed bright white, before he spun around and slammed his tail on the metal door, causing it to collapse and reveal May and Nurse Joy inside. "Ash, thank goodness!" May called out in joy as she hugged Ash in relief, who hugged her back with a smile as Pikachu landed back on his shoulder.

"Who did this to you two?'' Ash questioned as he looked down at May, who looked up at him with concern in her eyes. "I don't know. A group of people in black and red clothes just came out of nowhere, locked us here, turned the power off and took Professor Alden". May told Ash what happened, making him, Pikachu and Zorua widen their eyes in surprise.

"I see. Where did these guys take him?" Ash asked with narrowed eyes, intending to rescue Professor Alden. "My guess is that these mysterious people took Professor Alden to the Oldale Ruins. They're probably going to make him open the chamber to the ruins, which according to the legends, is supposedly the bride between our world and the ancient Pokémon World". Nurse Joy answered the Rainbow Hero as she walked up to him.

Ash was silent as he thought of the best course of action to take, before he looked back at May and Nurse Joy. "Listen up, I'll go rescue the Professor. May, you stay in the Pokémon Center and help Nurse Joy in restoring the power. When you're done, catch up with me, okay?" Ash told the plan to the two females, getting a worried expression from May. "Will you will alright alone?'' May asked in concern for her new friend, who gave her a smirk.

"Just who do you think you're talking too? Besides, I'm not alone". Ash answered with a grain as Pikachu and Zorua let out cries of agreement to what their trainer said. May's worried expression soften as she nodded at Ash in understand, making him nod back at her, before he rushed out of the Pokémon Centre and towards the Oldale Ruins.

After a few minutes of running up the hill, Ash managed to make it to the Oldale Ruins, where he found Professor Alden, accompanied by a group of people wearing black and red uniforms with a few armored Houndooms and Mightyenas, standing in front of an open door to the chamber below. Before they could run into, Zorua fired a Shadow Ball right in front of the entrance, creating a small explosion that forced them all to take a step back.

"Hey, tall dark and reds! I was enjoying my second day in Hoenn in peace with the chances of running into a group of losers slim, till you guys came and ruined it!" Ash called out to the group of black and red people, getting theirs and Professor Alden's attention as they looked to see Ash standing a few feet away from them with Pikachu and Zorua standing in front of their trainer, glaring at them.

"You got quiet the mouth on you, kid! If you know what's good for you, you'll walk away before someone gets hurt!" One of the red and black members of the group threatened Ash with a glare. Ash look and saw all of their faces were covered by sunglasses and hoods from their jackets, before he turned to look back at the one that spoke. "We can do this two ways, gentleman! The easy way or, my vote, the fun way! And I'm actually in the mood to do things the fun way!" Ash exclaimed with a confident smirk on his face as he gave them the hand sign "bring it on" to them.

"We warned you, kid! Houndoom, use Flamethrower! /Mightyena, use Dark Pulse!" Two members of the group called out, commanding the Houndoom and Mightyena to attack. Three Houndooms unleashed Flamethrower, while three of the Mightyena unleashed Dark Pulses.

"The fun way it is then! Pikachu and Zorua, counter attack with Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball!'' Ash called out with a smirk on his face, swiping his right hand out. "Pika!/ En!" Pikachu and Zorua called out as they leaped into the air, before Pikachu unleashed Thunderbolt, while Zorua unleashed another Shadow Ball.

The two attacks merged together to form a yellow Shadow Ball surrounded by electricity. The combined attack easily overpowered the Flamethrowers and Dark Pulses, before striking the ground in front of the group of Houndoom and Mightyena, blasting and zapping them off the ground.

The three Houndoom and Mightyena crashed on the ground with swirls in their eyes, making the group of red and black uniform people look in shock at how quickly they were defeated. "This kid… is way too strong". One of the grunts of the group said in shock at what he just witnessed.

One of the members of the group, probably the leader was in shock as well. "He defeated our grunts like they were nothing". The leader of the squad said in shock at what he just witnessed, before he looked back up at the Rainbow Hero. "I was hoping for more of a challenge, but all things must come to an end. Now, make it easy and hand over the Professor and I'll let you go!" Ash threatened with a glare on his face, while Pikachu and Zorua growled at the squad with narrowed eyes.

However, from the group of black and red suited man, a young girl, probably around the same age as Ash, walked out of the squad and stood a few feet away from him, getting the Rainbow Hero and his Pokémon to look at her. She had light purple hair, dressed in a similar uniform, only more for a females that showed her legs and purple eyes.

"Keep him busy, Courtney". The leader of the squad said to the young girl as he and a few grunts went into the ruins, taking Professor Aldan with them. "Understood Tabitha". The young girl named Courtney, replied to the leader that she called Tabitha in a monotone tone of voice like a robot, her eyes glued on the Rainbow Hero.

"You seem like an interesting person. Analyzing you in battle". Courtney said as she brought out a Poké Ball with her right hand and threw it, which burst opened and released a large, camel like Pokémon. Ash's eyes narrowed, before he brought out his Pokédex with his right hand to scan it. "Camerupt, the Eruption Pokémon. Camerupt has a volcano inside its body. Magma of 18,000 degrees Fahrenheit courses through its body. Occasionally, the humps on this Pokémon's back erupt, spewing the superheated Magma". The Pokedex buzzed, getting Ash to narrow his eyes upon noticing something, before he looked up at Camerupt.

"This one looks strong, plus it's a Ground-type so Electric type moves won't work on it". Ash said to himself, taking note of Camerupt and what type it is. "Analyzing opponent. Camerupt, battle position!" Courtney called out, holding her right hand out. "What is with this girl? She's talking almost like a robot?" Ash questioned Courtney's way of talking.

(Ash, Pikach and Zorua V.S Courtney and Camerupt)

"Flamethrower…" Courtney commanded, which Camerupt roared as it unleashed Flamethrower from his mouth. "Zorua, use Hyper Voice to blow that Flamethrower away!" Ash called out with narrowed eyes, commanding what move for Zorua to use. "EEENNN!" Zorua screamed out, creating a blue wave of energy that blew away the Flamethrower like it was a candle.

"Now Pikachu, Focus Punch, go!" Ash commanded Pikachu to use Focus Punch. "Pika-pi!" Pikachu called out as his right fist was covered in blue energy, before he leaped and punched Camerupt in the nose, making the Fire and Ground-type cry out in pain as it was pushed back. Courtney showed no concern on her face, the only emotion that was show was in her eyes.

"Eruption…" Courtney simply said with no emption in her voice, which Camerupt let out a powerful roar as a geyser of fire spewed from both of the volcanos on its back, making flaming rocks fly in all directions. "Oh boy, this wasn't expected. Zorua, use Night Daze to defend yourself and Pikachu!" Ash called out, holding his right hand out.

"Eeennn!" Zorua cried out as her eyes glowed light blue, before she raised her front two paws into the air. Its body then becomes surrounded in a crimson aura. Zorua then brought her paws down to the ground, causing a pink and crimson force field of energy to appear around Zorua's body, and expanded outwards throughout the whole battlefield that covered her and Pikachu. The flaming rocks flew down towards the force field, making small explosions upon impact, before both attacks died down with Pikachu and Zoura glaring at Camerupt.

"Earth Power…" Courtney gave another command as she held her right hand out. Camerupt's outline flashed yellow, before it slams its feet into the gold, causing cracks to appear on the ground, heading towards Pikachu and Zorua. "Dodge that, then use Shadow Ball!" Ash called out to Zorua and Pikachu, getting cries of agreement from the two as they leaped off the ground. Zorua then started gathering energy in her mouth which formed into a Shadow Ball, before she unleashed it at Camerupt, landing a direct hit, which pushed Fire and Ground-type back a bit.

Pikachu and Zorua landed on the ground, glaring at Camerupt, who returned the glare. Ash and Courtney looked at each other with the female still showing no concern, while Ash had a determined expression on his face. "Courtney, that's enough!" A familiar voice cried out, getting Courtney's attention as she looked over her shoulder to see Tabitha and the other grunts leaving the temple.

"We have what we came for! We no longer have any business here!" Tabitha told Courtney as a red helicopter landed near them with all the grunts entering it. Courtney nodded to Tabitha, before she looked at her Camerupt. Courtney held out her Poké Ball with her right hand towards Camerupt, before she returned the Fire and Ground-type to the device, then put it away.

(Ash, Zorua and Pikachu V.S Courtney and Camerupt cancelled)

"Running away, are you!?" Ash taunted Courtney with a smirk, which she showed no emotion on her face. "No…My mission is complete…I no longer have a reason to battle you". Courtney replied to Ash as she turned around and walked towards the helicopter with Tabitha keeping the door open for her.

Courtney entered the helicopter with Tabitha closing the door. The helicopter then took off, flying away from the ruins with Ash, Zorua and Pikachu watching. Just then, May ran up to Ash from behind. "Ash, you okay?" The brunette asked in concern, getting Ash, Pikachu and Zorua's attention as they turned to look at her. "We're fine May". The Rainbow Hero answered, getting May to sigh in relief, while Ash turned to look back up at the helicopter. "Looks like Hoenn has its own version of Team Loser''. Ash said to himself as he crossed his arms with his eyes narrowed, which Zorua and Pikachu let out cries of agreement.

"Who're you calling team loser!?" A familiar voice cried out from behind, getting May to cry out in surprise, while Ash smirked as he turned around to face Team Rocket and saw that they were hiding behind some rubble. Jessie turned anime white in horror as she realized that she was played. "Who are those guys?" May questioned with a confused look, having never seen Team Rocket before. "They're known as Team Rocket, a bunch of losers that's chased me around for 2 years now. Their main focus has been trying to steal Pikachu from me, but they've never succeeded". Ash explained to May as he turned to look at her, before he looked back at the three losers and smirked at them.

"I'm really gonna enjoy this. Let them have a Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball combination attack!" Ash commanded as he thrust his right hand out. "Pika! /En!" Pikachu and Zorua called out as they unleashed Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball. The two attacks merged together to form a yellow Shadow Ball surrounded by electricity. The electro Shadow Ball made a direct hit on Team Loser, causing an explosion that sent them flying off. "Team Rocket's blasting off again! / Wobbuffet!'' Team Loser and Wobbuffet called out as they disappeared in the night sky, leaving a twinkle behind with Ash, May, Pikachu and Zorua looking up at where they disappeared.

However, unexpectedly four coloured orbs came falling from the sky, getting everyone to widen their eyes in surprise, before they all caught one. Ash caught the blue one, May had the red, Pikachu caught the yellow one and Zorua had the green one. "What are these?" Ash said in wonder as he looked at the stone in his right hand as Pikachu and Zorua walked up to him and May. "I have no idea". May answered with an uncertain voice as she held up the red stone with her left hand.

"Ash, May! You have the treasure keys. Thanks a lot". A familiar voice thanked the two trainers, getting the Rainbow Hero, his Pokémon and the brunette to look over to see Alden walking up to them. "These are the stones you told me about?" May asked in surprise as Alden stopped in front of her and Ash, which he nodded to her. "That's right". The young man answered as the gang handed the stones over to him.

"What even happened while I was gone?" The Rainbow Hero questioned as Pikachu and Zorua climbed onto his shoulders, getting Alden and May to look at him. "These black and red uniformed people came here to force me to open the chamber, threatening to hurt the others in the Pokémon center". Alden told the Rainbow Hero as he started walking to the ruins with Ash and May following him.

"Well, they're gone now and won't bother you again" Ash told Alden as they walked inside the chamber. Ash and May looked around at the paintings that showed people and ancient Pokémon like Aerodactyl, Omanyte, Kabuto, and their respective evolved forms interacting with humans, before they turned to Alden and saw him inserting the four stones into a panel like the one that opened the chamber outside. They walked up to him as he inserted the last one. "There. They're back where they belong". Professor Alden said with a smile on his face.

Suddenly, sunlight then came from the entrance, getting everyone's attention as they turned and saw that the sun was beginning to arise. "The sun's up". The Rainbow Hero stated with a smile on his face. "Pika. /Enn". Pikachu and Zorua commented from their trainer's shoulders. "Morning already?" May questioned with a smile, before the stones lit up, followed by the rest of door, getting everyone's attention as all the lines in the room began lighting up. Everyone gasped in awe as the whole room was lit up, before the panel moved back to reveal a staircase that lead down below. "What's this?" Professor Alden questioned with an excited smile, while Ash, May, Pikachu and Zorua cried out in joy.

"Well, let's take a look". Professor Alden said with a smile, before he began walking down the stairs with Ash and May following after him. They went down the stairs until a few minutes later; they reached the bottom, which showed an underground lake. "It's an enormous underground water supply!" The professor said with a wide smile on his face. "It smells so fresh and clean". May commented with a smile as she could smell the water's nice scent. Ash sniffed with his nose, before he nodded in agreement. "You're right, it's a nice smell". The Rainbow Hero said in agreement.

"I wonder if it leads out to sea". Professor Alden said in wonder, before something leaped out of the water, getting everyone to gasp in surprise. It was a Pokémon that is heavily based on the coelacanth. It was covered with hard, brown scales that are similar to craggy rocks. Its tan head has protruding cheekbones. A triangular spike protrudes from the back of its head. Tan patches covered its body and there is a red spot located on both sides. It possesses two pairs of pectoral fins. Additionally, it had dorsal and pelvic fins near its tail. Its tail fin has a wavy outline.

The Pokémon disappeared back into the water, making a splash as it swam away. "Great scott, the ancient Pokémon Relicanth". Professor Alden said as he identified the unknown Pokémon that they just saw. "Relicanth..." Ash said in awe with wide eyes. "Pika. /En". Pikachu and Zorua said with wide eyes from Ash's shoulders. Alden smiled as he looked down at the water and saw Relicanth underwater with another one. "I'll be... It is true. These ruins are a portal between the present and the past". The young man said in awe, which amazed both Ash and May at the discovery.


(Next day)

The next day at the Pokémon Center, Ash, with Pikachu and Zorua on his shoulders, and May were at the front desk, where Nurse Joy was giving the brunette her Poké Ball back. "May, I'm happy to report that your Torchic is as good as new". Nurse Joy told May as she handed May back the Poké Ball containing Torchic. "Oh great, thank you". May thanked Nurse Joy, before she turned around and held the Poké Ball with her right hand. "Okay, come on out". May said as the device open and out came her fire chick. Torchic chirped happily, before it jumped into May's arms.

May hugged Torchic warmly, feeling happy to see her starter feeling better. "I'm so glad you feel better!" May exclaimed in happiness to see Torchic better. "Excuse me Nurse Joy, did you find out anything about those guys from last night?" The Rainbow Hero asked the female adult, getting May to look at Nurse Joy as well. "Officer Jenny is doing everything she can, but there's so far been no clues". Nurse Joy answered with a sad look, getting May to turn around fully to look at her. "That's too bad". The brunette stated, before turned to look at her with a smile.

"Well, it's time to hit the road to Petalburg City!" Ash called out with a smile, receiving two cries of agreement from Pikachu and Zorua. "You two are already leaving?" A familiar voice questioned, getting Ash and May to look and see Professor Alden walking up to them. "Hey, guess what. I've been doing a little more research at the stone chamber. So far every indication has pointed out that ancient Pokémon and men interacting peacefully". Professor Alden told Ash and May with a smile, getting the two trainers to smile up at him. "Wow that's great". Ash said in happiness to hear more about the ancient Pokémon past.

"You learn so much and so quickly". May said with a wide smile at seeing Alden learn so much at a fast pace, which he nodded to her. "I can hardly stop working even to sleep. There are so many undiscovered mysteries in the world of Pokémon". Professor Alden told Ash and May with a smile, which they nod to him.

Ash and May said their goodbyes to Nurse Joy and Professor Alden as they got back on track to Petalburg City. "The first step to competing in the Hoenn league is close now and there's no way I'm gonna lose''. Ash said with a smile on his face as he held up his right fist, ready for his first gym battle.


(3 hours later)

Three hours passed since Ash, May, Pikachu and Zorua continued their journey to Petalburg City with the group having not run into trouble, or a certain Team Loser. On their way there, they encountered a wild Ralts. Only instead of being a regular Ralts, it was a shiny Ralts.

Ash easily caught it with a Great Ball and scanned it with his Pokédex, finding out that his new Ralts was male and has the moves Magical Leaf, Ice Punch, Zen Headbutt and Heal Pulse. Once captured, Ralts was sent to Professor Oak with Ash making plans to swap his team out after his battle with the Petalburg Gym Leader.

Right now, Ash ran towards the edge of a cliff with Pikachu and Zorua on his shoulders, before he looked down at the city with a smile on his face. "Look, it's Petalburg City! Our first battle in the Hoenn Region is coming up!" Ash called out with a grin on his face. "Pika-pika. /En". Pikachu and Zorua remarked from their trainer's shoulders, looking down at the city with wide smiles.

"Hey Ash, wait up please? Do you mind telling me what is the rush?" May questioned as she ran up to the Rainbow Hero, getting him to look over to see and saw the brunette was slightly exhausted. "What do you think? I've got a big Gym Battle down there, waiting for me". Ash replied to May with a smirk, before he began running down the cliff towards Petalburg City with Pikachu and Zorua hanging on sight. "Yeah, but can't we slow down a bit!" May called out to Ash, who paid no attention to her, making the brunette sigh a bit, before she went after her new friend and his Pokémon.

They soon arrived at the city, before they went to a park to take a short break. May and Pikachu were sitting down on a couple of boulders, while Ash was leaning against a tree with his arms crossed and Zorua was on hanging on top of his head. "So, winning at the Petalburg Gym is a big deal, huh?" May asked her friend, getting Ash to nod at her with a smile on his face. "If I win a Gym battle, I earn a badge. Trainers have to earn 8 badges around a region to compete in a Pokémon League, where the best compete against each other. If you manage to win, you win the victory trophy and permission to battle the region's Elite Four, and if you defeat them, you get to battle the strongest trainer of the region, the Champion. And if you defeat him or her, you'll the new Champion and the strongest trainer in the region". Ash explained to May about Gym battles, badges and the Pokémon League.

"That sounds great, I guess". May replied to Ash with a smile, understanding what he was explaining to her. "Pika Pikachu!" Pikachu called out as he remembered his and Ash's victory in Johto and were award the winner's cup. "What about you May? Are you going to compete in the Hoenn League?" Ash asked May for her goal, wanting to know if she was gonna enter the Pokémon League like him.

May stuttered and giggled nervously at what Ash just asked her. "Of course, that's the reason I'm a trainer". May replied to Ash nervously, getting the Rainbow Hero to look at his new friend with narrowed eyes. His instincts told him that she was telling just half truths. For now, he decided to let it slide.

The young Rainbow Hero decided to change the topic. "I wonder what the Petalburg Gym Leader is going to be like? How strong he is in battle?" Ash said in wonder, wondering how different the Petalburg Gym Leader will be like compared to the Gym Leaders that he's faced in the past. "I'm sure he's a nice guy". May commented with a smile, getting Ash, Pikachu and Zorua's attention as they looked at her.

"May, do you know him?" Ash asked May if she knew the Petalburg Gym leader, instantly getting her nervous as she jumped off the boulder that she was sitting on. "I don't really know him. Word on the street says is that he's kind, a very strong trainer, and I also hear that he's handsome, and a really great man". May explained to Ash, moving around with a happy expression, making the Rainbow Hero, Pikachu and Zorua blink in confusion at the way she's acting.

"Well, it sounds to me that you know him very well". Ash stated, making May stop moving around and gain a nervous expression on her face. "No, I just wish I did". May replied to Ash without looking at him. Once again, Ash could feel that May was hiding some important details from him, but he'll get the answers later. "Hey, I know why don't you come with me and then we can meet him together?" Ash suggested May as he pushed himself off the tree and took a few steps forward.

"Well, I really can't. You see I just have to take care of a few things first. See you later Ash". May replied to Ash, before she left the park, leaving him to watch her in confusion. "Okay see ya". Ash said in confusion as Pikachu and Zorua also said good bye to May. He gave a sigh, before he turned to look down at Pikachu. "Guess we'll be on our own in the Gym Battle. Come on". The Rainbow Hero said as he held his right hand out to Pikachu. "Pika!" The Electric-type cried out as he leaped onto his best friend's hand and climbed onto his shoulder.

With his passenger secured, Ash turned and began walking out of the park, heading towards the Petalburg Gym to have his Gym Battle.


(Sometime later)

Ash, with Pikachu on his right shoulder and Zorua on his left shoulder, arrived and stood in front of the Petalburg Gym, which looked like a traditional styled building. "Here we are at the Petalburg Gym. Are you ready Pikachu, Zorua? Let's go give our best shot!" Ash exclaimed full of spirit as he held his right fist up. "Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out with a confident look on his face, ready to battle. "En!" Zorua cried out with an eager voice, also ready to battle. "That's what I like to hear!" The Rainbow Hero stated, before he walked into the Gym.

The Rainbow Hero walked through the Gym's open hall, before stopping in a room where a battlefield was.. "Hello! I'm Ash from Pallet Town. I'd like a battle!" Ash called out, hoping for someone to hear him. No one answered, making Ash, Pikachu and Zorua look a bit confused. "Is anybody here?" Ash called out once again for someone to hear as he stepped into the battlefield room.

Just then, a younger boy around 8-years-old walked by the door, carrying a book with his left hand. "Can you please keep it down? I'm right in the middle of watching a video of the Silver Conference". The boy requested, getting Ash to turn to look at the boy. The boy had short, dark blue hair with glasses; wearing a green shirt, black shorts and green shoes.

"Sorry kid". Ash apologized to the kid as he opened his eyes and saw the Rainbow Hero, before pointing at him with an excited expression. "Wow, it's really you!" The boy called out in excitement, making Ash, Pikachu and Zorua widen their eyes in surprise. "You know me?" Ash questioned in surprise at the boy's reaction of seeing him.

"Of course! You're Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town! You're the winner of the Johto League Silver Conference! You're known as the Rainbow Trainer! I can't believe I'm actually seeing you in person right now". The boy explained in excitement to see Ash, telling him how he knew him, much to the Rainbow Hero's further surprise. "Wow". Ash said in astonishment at what the boy knew about him.

Pikachu and Zorua jumped off of their trainer's shoulders and landed on the ground, getting the boy to notice them. "That must be your partner, Pikachu". The boy said in excitement, before he picked up the Electric Mouse and hugged Pikachu, making the Electric-type let out cries of surprise. "Hi there Pikachu, my name's Max". The boy introduced himself to Pikachu, before he turned to look back at Ash.

"I watched all of your battles at the Silver Conference, and I've been going over them ever since". Max told the 12-year-old boy, who still looked a little surprised as he held his right up up to his chin. "I guess that my battles even gained fame here in Hoenn". Ash said in surprise to hear that people from Hoenn have heard of him as well.

Max then took notice of Ash's Key Stone in his left glove, getting him to grown an excited look on his face. "Could that be the stone that made your Pokémon evolve with that Mega something?" Max asked in excitement, making Ash look down at his Key Stone. "You mean Key Stone. The Key Stone is the stone the trainer carries, while a Pokémon carries a Mega Stone for Mega Evolution. Mega Evolution's strength must come from the bond between trainer and Pokémon. Mega Evolution is temporarily and after the battle, the Pokémon returns to normal". Ash corrected and explained to Max about Mega Evolution, telling him how it worked, much to Max's amazement.

"I saw Harrison's Blaziken, your Latios, Latias and Charizard go through that and become stronger than usual". Max told Ash with an excited tone, having seen Mega Evolution on TV during Ash's intense matches. "My two favorite battles were the ones against Harrison, and the final match against that trainer from Aloha, Cross. That battle with your Latios against Harrison and his Blaziken was awesome. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Both Harrison's Blaziken and your Latios kept attacking with everything they got, but in the end you outsmarted Harrison and won!" Max exclaimed in excitement, having liked Ash's battles against Harrison and Cross the most.

"Yeah, Harrison was a tough opponent. Also, the region that Cross comes from is called Alola". Ash corrected Max on Cross' home region's name as he crossed his arms. "Your battle with your Charizard against Cross's … Incineroar, right? It was phenomenal! Both of them attacked with their best attacks! Dragon Claw, Duel Chop, Darkest Lariat and Thunder Punch back and forth!" Max called out, having really liked Ash's battle against Cross with their two Fire-types against each other.

"I admit that I outlasted that battle". Ash stated as he shrugged. Just then, Max took notice of the shiny Pokémon, who was watching him from the ground. "I've never seen this Pokémon before". Max said in surprise, getting Ash to look at Zorua. "This girl is a Zorua". Ash told Max, making the young boy widen his eyes in surprise. "A female Pokémon?" Max calls out in surprise, before he knelt down pets Zorua softly on the head with his left hand, which the Tricky Fox liked as she closed her eyes in happiness.

"What are you doing at the Petalburg Gym anyway?" Max asked Ash, tilting his head up to look at the 12-year-old boy. "I'm here to challenge the Gym Leader for a battle to earn the Gym badge". Ash answered Max's question with a smirk. Max smirked as he stood up on his feet and turned around. "You're in luck. The Gym Leader happens to be… yours truly!" Max exclaimed dramatically with a pose, getting Ash, Pikachu and Zorua to look at him with slightly wide eyes.

After staring at the 8-year-old boy for a bit, Ash gave an amused chuckle with his arms crossed. "That's a nice joke. You could do good stand-up comedy!" Ash said to Max, before he chuckled a bit more, getting Pikachu and Zorua to chuckle a bit as well. Max starting throwing a tantrum comical style at Ash's words. "I am the Gym Leader! I really am!" Max complained, throwing a hissy fit.

Ash, Pikachu and Zorua stopped chuckling, having enough, before the Rainbow Hero held his hands up in peace. "Okay, okay. I believe you. What are the rules of the Petalburg Gym?" Ash asked Max as he moved to the challenger side of the battlefield with Pikachu and Zorua following him. Max smirked as he took the Gym Leader's corner. "According to the Petalburg Gym rules, all battles will be three on three". Max told Ash with a smirk, getting the Rainbow Hero to raise an eyebrow in interest.

"3 on 3 huh? Sounds good to me". Ash said as a smirk was formed on his face. "Now choose your Pokémon!" Max said with a smirk on his face, making Ash raise his eyebrow again and whipping the smirk off of his face. "You sure you want me to go first?" Ash asked Max, deciding to play along with this little game as it was a bit amusing.

"I am the Gym Leader, so I outrank you. You get the honour". Max replied to Ash with a frown on his face, making the Rainbow Hero sigh a bit. 'This kid has no idea how a Gym Battle works'. The Rainbow Hero said in his mind, before he looked back up at Max and brought out an Ultra Ball with his right hand. "If you insist, try this on for size!" Ash called out as he reared his right hand back, before throwing the Ultra Ball into the air. The device soared through the air, before bursting open and releasing a bright white beam that struck the ground. The beam took shape, before it cleared to reveal the Legendary Raikou of the Thunder, who let out a powerful roar at Max, causing him to start sweating in fear, even though he was impressed at seeing a Johto legendary in front of him.

"It's a Raikou, a real Raikou!" Max calls out in fear and excitement, which Ash nodded to him, before he held up his right hand and gave the "bring it" hand sign to the younger male. "It's your turn now, oh great Gym Leader" Ash said with a sly smirk on his face, chuckling at how Max's joke has come back to bite him. Max began sweating even more as he saw Raikou staring at him with narrowed eyes.

"Listen, I was just bluffing. I'm not the real Gym Leader". Max said in surrender, deciding to stop with his little joke. Ash gave a nod at Max with a smirk. "I know. You're not even a trainer to begin with". The Rainbow Hero told the young boy, getting Max to widen his eyes in surprise.

"You knew the whole time?" Max asked in surprise that Ash knew that he was joking, which the raven haired boy nodded once more. "I'm not actually going to use full force on a rookie trainer, much less someone who isn't a Trainer. You're not even 10-years-old yet. Anyway, you want to meet Raikou?" Ash asked Max as Raikou dropped his serious glare and gave the young boy a gentle smile.

"Hi Max, what's going on?" A familiar voice asked, getting everyone's attention as they looked to see May outside, watching them through a window. "Oh, hi sis". Max greeted his sister, making Ash, Pikachu and Zorua widen their eyes in surprise. Then a man appeared on May's left side. "Well, who we have here?" The man asked with a smile, while a woman appeared on May's right side. "Hello there". The woman greeted, while Ash stared at them with wide eyes. "Hi". Ash greeted back, still surprised at this turn of events. Pikachu, Zorua and Raikou all looked at each other in confusion.

Later, everyone was inside the house, sitting down on a few seats with Ash having recalled Raikou back to his Ultra Ball. Pikachu and Zorua were back on their trainer's shoulders as he sat down. "Ash, I would like to introduce my mother and my father". May introduced the Rainbow Hero to her parents, holding up her left hand to gesture to them. "Pleased to meet you, I'm Norman". The man introduced himself with a smile. "My name is Caroline". The woman introduced herself as well. "And this is my younger brother, Max". May introduced Max to Ash, even though it was unnecessary.

"It's an honour to meet you, Norman and Caroline. By the way, I already met your little brother a little while". Ash greeted May's family with a smile, making May look at her little brother with slightly narrowed eyes. "Max, were you causing trouble again?" May questioned Max if he caused trouble for Ash, making the young boy sweat drop at being found out. Ash, however, shook his head and gave the brunette a smile. "No worries; Max wasn't causing trouble at all". Ash told May, having had no trouble. "Pika. /En". Pikachu and Zorua said in agreement, having been amused by Max's little joke.

"You see, my dad Norman is the real Petalburg Gym Leader". Max told Ash as he turned to look at his father, which Norman nodded warmly. "So, you actually come from Petalburg City, huh?" Ash said to May with narrowed eyes, which she began to sweat nervously. "Oh yeah… well". May replied nervously to Ash, having been secretive about where she came from.

"We appreciate you for bringing May home safely". Caroline thanked Ash for brining her daughter back home. "It was no problem, but I didn't do very much". Ash replied to the adult woman, being honest since he didn't really do that much, except kept May company.

"Mom, Dad, listen! This is Ash, the winner of the Silver Conference! He is also known as the Rainbow Trainer!" Max told his parents in excitement that Ash won the Johoto League Silver Conference, getting an impressed look from Norman. "Impressive, and at such a young age". Norman complemented with a smile, making Ash laugh a little, while blushing slightly due to the praise he's receiving.

"By the way May, what happened to your bike?" Caroline asked her daughter about her bike, making May sweat drop. "Well, on the way to Littleroot to Prof. Birch's lab, I ran onto a pothole and fell onto a slope. I fell on a Poochyena, and it, plus two more and three Mightyena tore it to shredds". May told her mother what happened to her bike, making Caroline grow a look of concern. "Oh my. But you're okay, right?" Caroline asked in concern for her daughter.

"Yes mom, Ash actually lured the Mightyena away". May told her mother as she turned to look at the Rainbow Hero, getting Caroline to look at him as well. "Thank you Ash, for making sure May was safe and sound". Caroline thanked Ash for helping her daughter, who just smiled at her. "No problem Caroline". Ash replied to Caroline with a smile.

"May, which Pokémon did you pick from Professor Birch?" Norman asked his daughter with a curious voice, having been wanting to see May's starter. "Yeah sis, what Pokémon did you get as a starter?" Max asked his sister in excitement, wanting to see as well. May pulled out a Poké Ball with her right hand and smiled. "You'll see. Come on out Torchic!" May called out with a smile as she released her starter.

The small fire chick Pokémon appeared in a flash, crying out her name in happiness. Max looked a bit disappointed at the choice. "What? Why'd you choose a Torchic? If it were me, I would have definitely picked a Treecko". Max said in disappointment, crouching down to look at the Fire-type in the eye. Torchic felt a bit insulted and started using Peck on Max. Ash started laughing a bit at seeing karma get at Max, while May tried to calm her Torchic down. After a minute, Torchic stopped jabbing Max and jumped into her trainer's arms.

"I think Torchic is an excellent choice". Norman said with a smile on his face, making May look at her father. "Really?" May asked if her father was being honest, which Caroline nodded in agreement. "And It's as cute as a button". Caroline said in with an adoring expression as she adored Torchic. "I can't wait to become an official Trainer. I'll definitely pick a Treecko". Max complained, being inpatient to become a trainer. Torchic started jabbing Max with her beak once more, which Ash laughed a bit more as May tried to stop Torchic on using her Peck attack on her brother.

"Ash, would you like to join us for lunch?" Caroline asked the Rainbow Hero, getting him to look up at her. Ash felt his stomach grumble, making him lightly blush. "If you don't mind, I'd be honoured to join you for lunch please. I'm starving". Ash replied to Caroline, hungry since he skipped dinner last night and breakfast this morning.

Later, Ash was enjoying lunch with May and her family, while Pikachu and Zorua eat Pokémon food nearby. The Rainbow Hero could tell Caroline's cooking was almost as good as his mom's cooking. "So Ash, May told us that you've been traveling for a while, correct?" Caroline asked Ash, having been told by her daughter about Ash's journey.

Ash nodded at Caroline as he stopped eating to look up at her. "Yeah, I've been traveling for almost two years. I've seen lots of different places from towns, cities and caves". Ash replied to Caroline with a smile, making Max moan in jealously. "I wish I could travel around". Max said in jealously that Ash could travel as much as he wanted. "Have you been traveling by yourself?" The female adult asked, getting Ash to shake his head sideways. "No, until recently, I've been traveling with some good friends. That includes Pikachu". The Rainbow Hero answered as he turned to look down at Pikachu, who smiled up at him.

"That sounds nice. I wish that I could travel around with a few good buddies of mine". Max said in a yearning voice, wanting to travel around with friends of his own. "Dad, Ash would like to have a battle with you". May told her father, getting Norman to look at the 12-year-old boy. "So Ash, how many badges do you have right now?" Norman asked Ash about how many badges that he currently has.

"This will be the first Hoenn Gym badge". Ash replied to Norman as he took a sip from his tea. "Normally, I accept official Gym battles when trainers have earned at least four badges. But we could have a friendly, unofficial battle if you'd like". Norman offered Ash a friendly battle since he doesn't have the conditions for a real battle.

Ash looked down in thought for a while, before he looked back at Norman and nodded to him. "Sure, why not. I'm interested to see what kind of battling style you have". Ash answered with a smile, getting the older male to nod to him. "Very well then. We will have our battle after lunch". Norman said with a smile, making Ash smirk at him, feeling excitement to battle against a Gym Leader. Pikachu and Zorua both smiled up at their trainer, happy to know that they'll get a battle at least.


Finally finished, that was a long chapter. I'm gonna enjoy the rest of the day and next story to be updated is my Tales of Berseria Story.