This Is The Pokémon Way

by SuperHeroTimeFan

On their way to Tython, Mandalorian Din Djarin and the Child, Grogu travel to a planet in the Unknown Regions to resupply, a world filled with new creatures. With the help of some young trainers, Mando and the Child form a new bond, but when the Empire gets involved, will this new world fall? Do they really expect to take battling to a new level? This Is The Way, The Pokémon Way.

2. The Trainer

Hello again, everyone, and Merry Christmas! I am back, the one and only SuperHeroTimeFan, with a brand-new Chapter for my newest story, which has grown more popular since I uploaded it this month, my first Pokémon and The Mandalorian Crossover, This Is The Pokémon Way! I am very pleased with how the first Chapter went, since I have wanted to do a unique Pokémon Crossover story since I got into the stories about the anime on this site. It means so much that you like my work so far, especially to GhostSlinger15, who has been helping me with new ideas, and to JediRhydon, edboy4926, RonaldM40196867, Legend Knight 00, and Belle Tiger BT for leaving the newest reviews. It means a whole lot to get this feedback from you. I have seen the Season Finale for The Mandalorian, in case you were wondering. What a thrill! Anyways, it will help with my story now that I know what has happened there. I have addressed some of your questions in the Private Messages, to those who have messaged me. So, with concerns out of the way, here is the second Chapter. Please review, rate, and as always, please be sure to enjoy!

Chapter 2: The Trainer

"So… you have it too."

Grogu looked to Squishy as he narrowed his eye at him. Similarly to his time with Ahsoka on Corvus, he was having a conversation.

"So, he found and raised you? An impressive feat," Squishy said as Dedenne looked to Din riding on his Rhyhorn. "It is rare that I come across one with powers, and it not a Pokémon or a force of evil."

Once again, Grogu remained silent, but he could still send his thoughts to the Zygarde Core.

"Hmm, that IS a difficult decision. I see you admire this Mandalorian greatly," Squishy said. "Very well. I shall trust him."

Ash slowed down his pace, just enough to find himself next to Din.

"So, you want to be called Mando?" Ash asked, getting only a silent nod from the Mandalorian. "You're not much of a talker, huh?" he asked. Once again, he received silence for a response. "Well, I hope you don't mind me asking, but how have you never heard of Pokémon? I mean, we've had other visitors to our planet, but they were Pokémon too."

"This is literally the first time I've seen or heard of Pokémon," Din finally spoke up, surprising Ash by his sudden decision to speak. "I'm used to being familiar with what happens. When something new is thrown in, I'm at a loss."

"Well, we can help you," Serena said. "And you and Grogu can have this Rhyhorn as your first Pokémon, Mando."

"Thank you," Din said before seeing something in the ground. Lightly kicking the Rhyhorn, it stopped, and he got off. "What's that?" he asked, activating the scanners in his helmet.

Everyone turned to where Din was looking, seeing something glistening against a log.

"Wait…" Clemont said as he put his goggles over his eyes to scan as well. "Isn't that…?"

Din took out his blaster and cautiously made his way towards the object.

"Don't hurt it!" Bonnie called out.

Din looked back and nodded to the vain matchmaker before getting closer to the object of interest. Upon closer examination, he discovered it was the handle of a sword with a rope tassel, one that had gold string.

"It's a sword," Din said to himself before picking it up. Suddenly, it flew up, and removed itself from the scabbard on its body. "I'm guessing a Pokémon?"

"It's a Honedge!" Ash called out.

"Honedge… that's your name?" Din asked.

The Honedge simply floated around Din as if it were inspecting him. Din looked back and noticed something about the blade.

"That doesn't look like any Honedge I've seen before." Ash said.

"Wait," Din said, holding his armor out. "I don't know if you understand me… but if that's what I think is on your blade… tap my armor."

The Honedge continued to inspect Din before tapping his wrist plating. A resonating ping was made before it flew closer.

"Let's see…" Din said before seeing a symbol on its center, one that Grogu had after they left Nevarro and defeated Moff Gideon. "I'm gonna test something, but I need you to trust me."

"What do you think he's doing?" Bonnie asked.

"Pika?"

"Nenene."

"He's tamed a Rhyhorn and now this," Clemont said before they saw Grogu walking ahead. "Wait! Grogu!"

"Easy!" Serena called as she picked the child up. "We don't want you to get hurt, Grogu."

Din looked to the Honedge before taking out his blaster, shooting the blade. Everyone gasped as the bolt bounced off and onto his armor before bouncing back like a tennis ball. Din simply stepped out of the way to let it fly into the air, where a pack of Spearrow flew off from a nearby tree.

"Just as I thought… Beskar," Din said as the Honedge flew to him. It sheathed itself and handed itself to him, handle first. "You trust me that much, huh?" he asked. He slowly grabbed the handle, and placed Honedge onto his belt. "I never thought I'd find Beskar here," he mused. "Welcome aboard."

Serena continued to cradle Grogu before Din came back.

"Mando!" Bonnie yelled excitedly.

"So what happened there?" Ash asked.

Din said nothing before getting back on his Rhyhorn. "I'll explain in town." He said.

"Are you just going to be like this for the rest of the way?" Ash asked. "Only speaking when you want and not when we speak to you?"

"This is the way." Din answered.

"What way?" Ash asked as everyone continued to walk.

To say the group gathered the attention of the whole town would have been an understatement had it not been true. Upon arriving, many had stopped to awe at the Mandalorian on top of the Rhyhorn, and the Honedge at his side.

"Any stables where I can put this thing?" Din asked Serena as Grogu looked to some of the people looking on.

"Well, we're gonna reach the Pokémon Center soon," Serena replied. "You can get some Pokéballs for them there."

"That's right," Clemont said. "You'll feel a lot better carrying Pokéballs,"

Din looked to Pikachu. "He's comfortable without one." He reminded the two.

"Oh, Pikachu doesn't like going into his Pokéball," Ash explained. "It's a bit of a long story."

Soon, the group arrived at the Pokémon Center. The doors were big enough, so Din led his newly-acquired Rhyhorn inside. Many people inside looked to him before he made his way to the front desk, with Ash, Serena and Clemont placing their Pokéballs on the counter. A woman with pink hair and nurse clothes walked over.

"Nurse Joy, do you think you can tend to our Pokémon?" Ash asked.

"Certainly," Nurse Joy replied before seeing Din. "Um… how can I help you?"

"I have what I believe is a Rhyhorn and a Honedge with me," Din said. He reached for his pocket and took out some credits. "How much for some Pokéballs?"

"What are those?" Clemont asked.

"You don't need to worry about paying, Sir," Nurse Joy said, though she was a bit curious about the currency in Din's hands. "If you're new on your journey, you get free Pokéballs. All new starting trainers do."

"Thank you." Din said.

As soon as Nurse Joy had her Pokémon assistant, Blissey, take away the Pokéballs of Ash and his friends, she carried out a case of six Pokéballs.

"You can only carry six at a time," Nurse Joy explained as Din looked to them. "You have two Pokémon so far, am I correct?"

"Yes," Din replied before looking to his Rhyhorn. "So… do I just press this?" he asked before tapping it on the horn of the Rhyhorn. Immediately, it pressed open, and the Rhyhorn went inside. With a few shakes, it let out a ding and a green light. "Guess that answers that." He mused before doing the same with Honedge. Like with Rhyhorn, it shook a few times before a green light shone with a ding.

"I can give you this too," Nurse Joy said, handing Din the same devices that Ash and his friends had. "Your Pokédex will allow you to scan new Pokémon, and to see what moves yours currently have."

Grogu looked to a spare Pokéball on the counter and walked on. Serena looked to him and gasped.

"Huh?" Ash asked before seeing what Grogu was doing. "Grogu, stop!"

Din and Nurse Joy looked to Grogu as he picked up the spare Pokéball.

"Um…" Nurse Joy stuttered nervously. "Who's that…?"

"Kid, put that down," Din said. "We only get to have six."

Grogu looked to Din before putting the Pokéball down, letting it shrink back to its miniature size.

"Oh, he's not a Pokémon?" Nurse Joy asked.

"It's complicated," Din answered as he picked up Grogu. "Do you have a place where we can eat?"

"There's a cafeteria through the door to the left," Nurse Joy instructed. "I'll bring some food over shortly."

Din nodded as Nurse Joy walked away.

"I wanted to ask," Bonnie said as she and the others walked up. "Is Grogu going to get his own Pokémon too?"

"Depends," Din replied. "What's the age requirement for having Pokémon?"

"You have to be at least ten years old." Clemont answered.

Din looked to Grogu. "Well, you're certainly way beyond that, aren't you?" he asked.

"Way beyond?" Serena asked. "He's over ten?"

"He still looks so young." Ash added.

"He's fifty."

"FIFTY?!"

"Yes," Din confirmed. "I don't know much about his species, but from what I know, they can live for centuries. The kid is around over fifty years old already."

"I guess there's more to Grogu than we initially thought," Clemont said before adjusting his glasses as he looked to Grogu. "So, if he's fifty, I guess in terms of age if he were a human… he'd be around five and a half."

"Sounds accurate. He acts like a five-year old," Din conceded before picking up Grogu. "Let's get something to eat."

"Man, fifty years at that age?" Ash asked. "That's amazing."

"We've met a ninja who was a hundred." Serena pointed out.

"But Grogu still looks like a kid." Ash said defensively.

In the cafeteria, everyone was being treated to some of the food Nurse Joy had offered. She came back with some more plates and put some meat soup for Grogu.

"If it's all the same with you, I'd like you to keep the kid a secret," Din said. "I don't want too many people knowing about him."

"I can't make any promises," Nurse Joy said. "But I'll try my best."

Din nodded in respect before Nurse Joy walked away. He looked to his cup and lifted his helmet, getting everyone to look on eagerly. However, he only stopped at his mouth for the drink before eating a bagel.

"So this is one of those exceptions?" Ash asked.

"I need to eat somehow." Din said.

"So, why'd you do what you did with that Honedge?" Serena asked.

"Its blade was coated, coated in the same material as my armor," Din replied. "A substance known as Beskar."

"Amazing!" Clemont exclaimed, though not too loudly for others to hear. "That's why your blast just ricocheted, wasn't it? Beskar is immune to stuff like lasers."

"It's indestructible," Din said. He looked to Grogu as he picked up a meatball and plopped it into his mouth. "At least it's not an egg."

"So, can you tell us more about yourself?" Ash asked.

Din set his food down. "I was part of a group known as the Bounty Hunters Guild, which is how I made my way," he explained. "On the Planet, Nevarro, I was with other Mandalorians, ones who I was raised by and swore the Creed to. For now, it looks like the Empire or the New Republic doesn't operate here."

"Who are they?" Serena asked.

"The Empire was supposedly dissolved a few years ago when their leaders were killed, but they still operate, sad to say," Din explained. "As for the New Republic, they've been keeping the peace around. I've had a few encounters with both, but with the former the most."

"What's wrong with the Empire?" Clemont asked.

"They were after the kid, for one," Din explained. He was about to go on until he saw the concerned looks that the group had towards Grogu. "You're all young and with good lives ahead of you, I don't want those minds to be soiled with what I've seen."

"Pika…" Pikachu said.

"Yeah, probably for the best," Ash said. "So, a Bounty Hunter, huh?" he asked, remembering the last Bounty Hunter he came across back in the Sinnoh Region.

"I get credits for the targets I catch," Din explained. "Like I said before, I don't want your innocence ruined, so I won't go into detail on how."

"Can we see your credits?" Bonnie asked.

Din nodded and took out some of his currency.

"Unmarked Credits, Calamari Flam, Imperial Credits…" Din listed as Ash and his friends looked to each piece curiously. "Something tells me this place doesn't accept this."

"It looks gold," Ash said. "But how can anyone know for sure?"

"I don't like the way this symbol looks." Serena said, looking to the Imperial logo on the Empire's Credits.

"Yeah, these are impressive," Clemont said before putting the Calamari Flam down. "But I agree. These probably wouldn't work here. You'd need to get some of the currency we use instead."

"I'll check tomorrow," Din said. He took out his Pokédex and came across entries for Rhyhorn and Honedge. "I'll need to look at what is here first."

"Knowing what moves your Pokémon have is very important," Ash said. "It's one of the ways to get to know them better."

"I'll keep that in mind," Din said before putting his fork down. "Are we allowed to rest here?"

"Of course," Clemont said. "The Pokémon Centers treat trainer and Pokémon alike."

"I'll take a look around town tomorrow to see what kind of work I can get, and for who can help me with my current problem," Din said. "I can tell you were all probably ready to go somewhere too."

"Yeah, to Snowbelle City," Ash said with a nod and a confident smile. "I'm ready to earn my next Gym Badge."

"Pikachu!"

Din tilted his head. "Badges?" he asked, to which Grogu cooed in a similar curious way.

"Oh, right," Clemont said, deciding to be the one to explain. "You see, trainers get to battle strong opponents of a city known as Gym Leaders. If they defeat the Gym Leader, they will get their badge, a mark to show their strength and proof that they defeated them. There are a total of eight gyms for each Region," he went on as Din listened carefully. "When one has all eight, they are eligible to enter into a tournament where they can face other strong trainers, known as a League Tournament. With each badge comes an experience from the battles."

"I've sometimes lost my badges, and there is a choice to have them replaced," Ash continued. "But I like to have the badges I won fair and square, because in each badge lies memories that helped me to get them."

"So, it's a way for you to prove your strength?" Din asked, trying to get a good grasp on this new information.

"Yeah, pretty much," Ash said before taking out a case. He opened it up, showing seven different badges. "I won all of these in my battles with the Gym Leaders. The Voltage Badge was given to me by Clemont after my Gym Battle with him in Lumiose City, where he was the Gym Leader."

"If he's a Gym Leader, why isn't he there?" Din asked.

"Well, you see…" Clemont said, chuckling nervously while rubbing the back of his head. "I built a robot who could act as Gym Leader, and he's in charge now," he explained. "I had a bit of a mishap with him earlier, it's a long story."

"You built a Droid?" Din asked.

"Well, his name is Clembot, I wouldn't say…" Clemont started out before everyone realized what Din said. "Wait, you've come across other robots too?"

"Didn't like them at first, but I've gotten over it," Din said. He looked back to the Badges. "And you only need one more?"

"And then I can enter the Kalos League!" Ash confirmed with a pump of his fist.

"Good luck with that," Din said before turning back to Grogu. "You think he can make it, Kid?" he asked.

"Grogu, please…" Ash pleased with his hands together as if he were praying.

"Pika…" Pikachu imitated.

Grogu looked to Ash and Pikachu before smiling.

"I think that's a yes." Bonnie said.

"Awesome!" Ash exclaimed with a swing of his fist. "You're the best, Grogu!"

"Pikachu!"

"Better get some shuteye," Din said. "I'll be heading to see what kind of work I can get tomorrow."

"What about Grogu?" Bonnie asked.

Din looked to Grogu before turning to each of Ash's friends, and then to Ash himself and Pikachu too.

"You mind looking after him?" Din asked.

"You bet!" Ash exclaimed.

"Count on us!" Serena chimed in.

"Thank you." Din said gratefully.

That night, as Ash and his friends were settled in, Din was looking through his new Pokédex. As he was, he looked to two kids training outside. Carefully, he watched as one of them tossed a Pokéball, releasing their Pokémon.

"So that's how it works," Din said. He looked to the Pokéball holding Rhyhorn and tossed it, letting him out. After a while, he pressed it again, albeit by accident, and he was recalled. "Guess I got a lot to learn." He said before going through his Pokédex again.

Meanwhile, Team Rocket had tracked the TIE Fighters to an open area in the forest. Peaking from behind a rock, they saw one of them open up, followed by the second TIE Fighter doing the same thing.

"That's quite some armor." Jessie said.

"I wonder if it's the same as that new guy's." James pondered.

"Doesn't look like our color," Meowth said. "We want armor, we're gonna have to take the right ones. Dat's how it's gotta be."

"TK-136 to Commander Lyste," one of the TIE Fighter Pilots said. "We've arrived on the surface, but we haven't found any signs of the Razor Crest or the Asset."

"Asset?" James asked. "Do you think they mean that green twerp with that armored man?"

"Shh!" Meowth whispered. "I'm trying to listen!"

"Keep on alert, but don't attract too much attention," Lyste ordered through the Comms. "I will be sending down a small squad of troops to help assess the situation of this new planet. Stand by."

"And if anyone spots us?" the second Stormtrooper asked.

"Eliminate them."

"Right away." TK-136 replied before ending the transmission.

"What do you think this Planet has to offer?" the second Stormtrooper asked. "Why would that Mandalorian go here?"

"Ask Moff Gideon, not me," TK-136 remarked. He looked to a Dedenne on a rock and aimed his blaster. "Bet you can't hit that." He challenged.

"Uh-oh." Jessie panicked.

The second Stormtrooper took out his blaster and fired, but missed entirely. He fired again, only to miss like before.

TK-136 sighed and fired as well, only to miss like his subordinate. The two continued to fire at the Dedenne, who only looked at them curiously as their blasts hardly hit it.

"Wow… they are terrible at aim." Jessie said.

"Yeah," Meowth agreed. "Imagine what dose guys must be like if dare told to miss."

"They'd miss anyways." James remarked.

"Wobba!"

The next morning, everyone was checking on their things at the Pokémon Center. As they were coming into the cafeteria, they saw Din on a chair, his armor still on.

"Is he awake?" Ash asked.

"I saw him like that when I went to get some water," Bonnie said. "I didn't want to wake him up, if he even was awake."

"I'm not sure if he is or isn't awake," Clemont said, adjusting his glasses as usual as he looked to Din. "But we shouldn't bother Mando, just in case."

"Well, the Snowbelle Gym battle can wait for now," Ash said before he and Pikachu looked around. "And we promised to look after Grogu too."

"Where is he?" Serena asked.

"Um, Mr. Mando?" Bonnie asked, poking Din lightly. "Are you…?"

"Bonnie, don't…" Clemont started before inspecting the shine the Beskar armor was giving off. "That is an interesting substance."

"You can have a good look at it when I'm not bothered." Din suddenly said.

Clemont and Bonnie jumped in surprise, as did Serena into Ash's arms. Upon noticing she did so, she blushed and released herself.

"Sorry, Mando," Ash said. "We didn't know if you were awake or not."

"Just resting my eyes," Din said before getting up. He walked to the corner of the room, where Grogu was still in the satchel, before picking him up. "I'm heading into town to find work, but these kids will look after you." He told Grogu before walking to the group.

"You can count on us!" Ash exclaimed.

"Pika-Pika!" Pikachu said in the same confident tone.

"Anything we need to know about Grogu before you leave?" Serena asked. "Like what kinds of food should I make for him?"

"From experience, he likes seafood, and eggs," Din said. "And frogs too."

"I'll just be keeping Greninja away, then." Ash said as Nurse Joy, who was in the room, chuckled nervously.

"And me with Froakie," Nurse Joy said. "Thank you for the heads-up." She said before walking away.

"If it helps, he likes soup." Din added on.

"Soup, seafood and eggs, got it," Serena said. "I'm sure Nurse Joy will let me use the kitchen."

"And make sure he practices his powers too," Din said, but not in too loud of a voice. He took out the knob from the Razor Crest and showed it. "He likes to play with this."

"So, how do we do it with him?" Ash asked as Din tossed him the knob.

"Say he can have it, but he has to get it," Din said. "Get him to take it from you. He knows what to do from there."

"Well, you'd best get going," Bonnie said. "I'm sure Dedenne and Squishy will love playing with Grogu!"

"I'm sure they will," Din said before making his way out. "And don't let anyone else see him." He added before making his way out.

"Okay, not the first time I've had to babysit," Ash said as Serena blushed at his statement. "Now, Grogu, what do you want to do first?" he asked as everyone turned to Grogu, only to find him distracted by two Fletchling flying outside.

Grogu looked to the two flying Pokémon and held his hand out. Remembering what happened the last time he did so, Serena ran over.

"Grogu, they aren't ours!" Serena reprimanded as calmly as she could. "It's alright, I'm sorry for snapping," she apologized upon immediately catching the tone that she was using. "Are you hungry?"

Grogu perked his head up as if the question did not even need to be answered.

"Alright, time for breakfast, then," Clemont said as he walked to the kitchen. "Just you wait, Grogu, I'll make you the best eggs you've ever had!" he proclaimed before the door closed behind him.

"Wait for me, Clemont!" Bonnie called out, running after her older brother.

"Let's see how you do that magic hand thing now," Ash said as he walked up to Grogu. He looked to the ball Din gave him and held it out. "You want this, right?" he asked. "Come on, take it from me. Do the magic hand thing."

Grogu looked to Ash curiously as he waved the knob around. However, his attention was distracted when he saw Clemont's grass-type Pokémon, Chespin, appear from his Pokéball. Curiously, he walked towards him.

"Che?" Chespin asked as Grogu walked closer. He back-stepped as the alien child came closer. Out of fear, he ran away, but Grogu chased after him surprisingly fast.

"Hey, wait up!" Ash called out. "Don't you want this thing?!"

"I didn't think looking after a baby would be this hard!" Serena exclaimed, running after Grogu as well.

"Pika!" Pikachu exclaimed.

In town, everyone was watching as Din walked down the street. Some stopped to take pictures of him while others were smart enough not to get in his way.

This did little to bother Din, who was currently looking to the billboards around, trying to find any way of getting work. As he was, he felt a pair of eyes on him. Not like the many eyes already set, but a pair of curious and suspicious eyes. He turned around and saw a woman with green hair and what appeared to be the clothing of a figure of authority.

"Excuse me, sir," the woman said. "I'm talking to you."

"Is there trouble, Ms.…?"

"Officer Jenny."

"Okay," Din said. "Officer Jenny, I think you can help me. I'm trying to find a bit of work to do."

"Can I see your identification?" Officer Jenny asked.

Din took out his new Pokédex. "Will this do?" he asked.

Officer Jenny walked over and looked to the Pokédex. "Perfect," she said. "Now, if you would come with me, I think a few people at the station can help."

Din nodded and walked with Officer Jenny. As he was, a woman with blonde hair, a blue top, black pants and toeless high-heel shoes was walking to an ice cream stand.

"Now… what to choose?"

"Says here your known name is Mando," Officer Jenny said at the police station. "That doesn't sound like a real name."

"I don't give my real name to many people." Din replied.

"Legal enough," Officer Jenny said. "What kind of work do you need?"

"If I said I was a Bounty Hunter, would that help narrow down any options?" Din asked.

"Well, do you work legally?" Officer Jenny asked.

"Within the Bounty Hunters Guild policies." Din confirmed.

"Then, I can honestly say that crime here has been silent," Jenny said. "I can think of a few jobs for you, but I think the armor will have to come off."

"I swore an oath. This armor doesn't come off, and no one sees my face," Din said. "You swore an oath too, I imagine?"

"Touché," Officer Jenny conceded before looking to several papers on her desk. "Museum guard position… part-time for traffic duty… not much where you and your armor could be useful."

"If it helps, I don't track down living targets anymore." Din said.

"That helps, but not in the search," Officer Jenny said. "How much do you need?"

"An equivalent of these," Din said, showing some of his Credits. "They probably won't be worth anything here."

Officer Jenny looked to the unmarked credits. "May I see one?" she asked. After getting a nod from the Mandalorian, she picked up one of the credits. "With your permission, I would like to take one and pass it by with a pawnbroker to see if I can exchange it for money for you. I assume you won't mind if I track you down if I find anything?"

"Whatever you need." Din said.

"Then you are free to go," Officer Jenny said. "Thank you for your time."

"No problem." Din said, picking up his credits and walking away as soon as his Pokédex was handed back to him.

Back at the Pokémon Center, Ash and Serena were both panting as they slumped to the ground near the table. Clemont and Bonnie had just finished preparing eggs for Grogu, who was now in a baby seat.

"For someone fifty years old… Grogu has a lot of energy." Ash said.

"Pika…" Pikachu agreed.

"Come on, Grogu. This is a special recipe," Clemont said as Grogu looked to the eggs. He looked in concern before handing him a fork. "You want some?"

Grogu picked up and egg and plopped it into his mouth. Everyone looked on in surprise before he used his fork to pick at another egg, toying around with it.

"I wish I could eat as fast as he does." Bonnie said as Grogu started to eat more eggs.

"Maybe he likes eating this way," Serena said as Grogu ate more eggs. "Did you make any breakfast soup for him, Clemont?"

"Still cooking," Clemont said as he and Bonnie turned to Serena. "I used the same recipe I did when making it for all you."

"Whoa!" Ash exclaimed, looking to the plate. "You're done already?"

"What?" Clemont asked. "Either he's got a big appetite or he really likes eggs!"

"Maybe he doesn't need soup anymore." Bonnie suggested before Grogu lifted his plate.

"Well, he still looks hungry," Ash said. "Then again, I don't know much about looking after him."

"Mando could have told us more on how to look after Grogu," Serena said. "I'm gonna call my mom to see if she has any tips."

"Same here," Ash said. "And maybe with some of my other friends too. One of them was a mother for another Pokémon."

"I'll let Dedenne and Squishy play with Grogu." Bonnie suggested.

"Ne Dedenne!" Dedenne agreed as Squishy warbled.

"Sounds good," Ash said as he and Serena walked out. "Be right back!"

"Chespin, come out!" Clemont called, releasing Chespin again.

"Chespin, Che!" Chespin announced.

"Come on, Pancham! You too, Sylveon!" Serena called out, releasing her two Pokémon as well.

Pancham, Sylveon and Chespin looked to Grogu as he cooed innocently. Dedenne walked over and tried to talk, but all Grogu did was look on in confusion.

"Pancham, Pan." Pancham said, rubbing his head.

"Che." Chespin chimed in.

In the main lobby, Serena made her way to one of the video phones. Ash was about to until he heard someone at the desk.

"You ready to see that exhibition contest, Piplup?"

"I know I am!"

"Pip, Piplup!"

"Huh?" Ash asked, turning his head. "Is that…?"

"What is it, Ash?" Serena asked before her mother came onto the screen.

"Serena, hello!" Grace said. "How are things going?"

"Hi, Mom," Serena said. "I hope you don't mind, but I need some advice."

"Rhyhorn or Performance?" Grace asked.

"Actually, parenting," Serena said as Ash walked to the desk. "See, we promised to look after…"

Ash turned the corner, and to his surprise, he saw three girls his age. One had black and pink clothing and blue hair, with a penguin Pokémon, another had orange clothes with a bandana over her hair, which was brown, and the last had tan clothing, dark skin and purple hair, with a tusked Pokémon in her hair.

"Dawn! May! Iris!" Ash called out.

The three girls turned and smiled.

"Hey, Ash!" Dawn, the blue-haired girl, called out, holding her open hand near her head. "Been a while!"

"Lup!" Piplup agreed.

"You too!" Ash said, mimicking the same motion. Both he and Dawn high-fived each other before the girl with purple hair, Iris, walked up.

"So you came here with Alexa after all." Iris said.

"And I fought her sister too," Ash said before turning to May. "How have you and Max been?"

"I've been doing more Contests, and Max has been traveling on a tour with Mom and Dad," May explained. "He still uses what he learned from Brock," she added on before hearing a pained scream. "Speaking of…"

Everyone looked to see a boy with dark skin and green and brown clothes being dragged by a frog Pokémon with orange cheeks.

"Some things never change," Ash said before walking up to the two. "Croagunk got you again?"

"Ash!" Brock exclaimed, recovering quickly. "Great to see you again!"

"You too!" Ash said, shaking Brock's hands. "Still learning to become a Pokémon Doctor?"

"You bet. I even had some adventures of my own since we last met," Brock said. "Oh, and Misty's doing well too. She wanted to come, but was busy with Gym Leader duties."

"Sounds like Misty," Ash said. "What are you all doing here anyways?"

"Well, you see…" Dawn started out.

All of a sudden, Serena ran in.

"Ash, we have a problem!" Serena called.

"Who's this?" May asked.

"This is Serena, a friend from when I was still younger," Ash explained before looking to Serena. "What's going on?"

"Our baby got carried away with the other Pokémon!" Serena exclaimed.

"What?!" Ash exclaimed.

"A baby?" Iris asked. "And here I thought you were too dense."

"When did this happen?" Ash asked, ignoring Iris and running with Serena.

"Ash, wait up!" Brock called out as he, May, Dawn and Iris ran after Ash and Serena.

Back in the cafeteria, Chespin was running around with Clemont's rabbit Pokémon, Bunnelby, as Grogu chased after them. Clemont waited for his two Pokémon to pass before jumping to catch Grogu, but he stopped short, causing him to land face-first into the ground.

"Grogu… please don't play with my Pokémon." Clemont muffled out, followed by a groan.

"Pan, Cham-Cham Cham!" Pancham laughed, obviously enjoying the misfortune befalling his rival.

"Chespin! Che!" Chespin yelled angrily.

Ash and Serena ran into the room, and Ash quickly took out the knob ball that Din gave to him.

"How did this happen?!" Serena asked.

"Chespin ate all of Grogu's soup, and he started flinging stuff at him!" Clemont exclaimed as he got up. "Bonnie's following my recipe to make more, but I don't know how much longer we'll last."

"Grogu, where are you?" Ash asked as Brock, Dawn, May and Iris came into the room.

"Ash, what's going— whoa!" Dawn started before she saw Grogu looking to Ash carefully, with Pikachu ready to interfere.

"Grogu, come on. Do you want this?" Ash asked. "It's all yours. You just have to take it," he said as his friends watched curiously. "I know you can do it."

"Ash… who's that Pokémon?" May asked hesitantly.

Iris aimed her Pokédex at Grogu, but got the same response from it from when Clemont scanned him.

"No Data."

"It's not a Pokémon?!" Iris exclaimed.

"Grogu… if you want the ball, you have to take it." Ash said in a singsong voice.

Grogu continued to look before holding his hand out. Slowly, the knob ball started to move, but it did not move out completely.

"Pika…" Pikachu said, rubbing his head at the failed attempt.

"I thought Mando said this would work!" Ash pondered.

"Ash, can you tell us what that Pokémon is?" Brock asked.

"He's not a Pokémon, he's a kid," Ash explained. "And his name is Grogu."

"I promised someone that we would take care of Grogu while he was out," Ash explained. "We were told what his favorite food was, and that he needed to train to use his powers using this ball, but I don't get why it isn't working."

"He's got powers?" Dawn asked.

"Piplup?"

"Long story," Ash said before looking around. "Better get Mando," he said before taking out one of his Pokéballs. "Hawlucha, I choose you!" he called out, tossing the Pokéball to let out Hawlucha.

Before the Pokéball could release the fighting/flying type, it flew to Grogu's hands, surprising everyone.

"Wait…" Ash said, taking out an empty Pokéball. He tossed it, and like before, Grogu caught it with the Force.

"Did that really just happen?!" Dawn exclaimed.

"I think so." May said.

"I guess we have a way for him to practice," Clemont said before walking over. "Can we have those back, Grogu?" he asked.

Grogu put the Pokéballs down, causing Clemont to pick them up.

"Soup's ready!" Bonnie called out, coming out from the kitchen.

"Good, I'm starving!" Iris exclaimed.

"I hope Mando is doing well." Serena said, patting Grogu on the head lightly.

Din continued to walk through the town again until he came across an arena. He walked over and saw two trainers battling nearby.

"I can't wait to see that Garchomp fight!" one of the trainers exclaimed.

"This match is gonna be great!" the other trainer agreed.

"Let's see…" Din said, checking his Pokédex for more information.

"Garchomp, the Mach Pokémon, the evolved form of Gabite, and the final evolved form of Gibble. A ground-type and a dragon-type. Garchomp folds up its body and spreads its wings, allowing it to fly like a jet plane at the speed of sound."

"Guess types are something I need to learn more about." Din said before walking into the arena. As he was making his way to the gate to watch what was about to unfold, he heard a voice.

"You can't just walk it off? Oh, that bad, huh? Don't worry, I'm sure we can work something out. Take your time. Hope you get better."

Din watched someone come out from the door, the voice he heard, and walk towards the guard at the entrance.

"We have a problem."

"What is it?" the guard, who Din swore looked like Officer Jenny, asked.

"Today's challenger had to call off because he sprained his arm and broke his throwing hand." The woman in the suit explained.

"Well, everyone already paid to see the Champion battle," the Jenny lookalike said as Din walked up. "We can't tell them there will be no battle."

"Do you need some help?" Din asked.

"Nice suit," the woman in the suit said. "But unless you're a good Battler, there's not much you can do."

"I heard the trainer for today's match was unavailable," Din said. "If you need a replacement, I'll fight in his place," he offered before looking to the guard. "Weren't you at the station?"

"That was another Officer Jenny." Guard Jenny explained.

Din examined the guard from top to bottom, using his scanner.

"You are a little different. I'll be sure to ask Ash about it later," Din said after a while. "Anyways, as I said, I can help fill in your vacancy."

"What Pokémon do you have, Mr.…?"

"Just call me Mando," Din said before seeing Guard Jenny examining something at his side. Realizing what was wrong, he took out his blaster and handed it to her. "All good now?" he asked.

"You have a license to use this?" Guard Jenny asked.

"Yes."

"You will get this back at the end of the battle, Mr. Mando." Guard Jenny said.

Din nodded and walked with the agent. "As for your question, I have a Honedge and a Rhyhorn. I will use the Honedge personally." He said.

"You wish to step into the field with your Pokémon?" the agent asked.

"If that's okay."

"It will get the crowd pumped," the agent noted. "I will let your opponent know, and in advance, I want you to know that if you win, you will also get half the money that this crowd had paid for to watch the battle."

"I don't want too much, but thanks," Din said as he came to a door leading into the arena itself. "I wait here?"

"When the overhead light turns green, you walk onto the field," the agent explained. "The champion is a tough opponent, Mr. Mando, so good luck." She said before walking away.

Din looked to the agent before readying his Pokéball holding Honedge. "Hope you're ready. This Champion and her Garchomp sound strong." He said to his bladed Pokémon.

Just then, another person entered. It was the same blonde woman, dressed in blue with black pants and toeless high-heel shoes, from before. She looked to Din with surprise before composing herself and standing next to him.

"So… you're my opponent?" the woman asked.

"I take it you're the Champion of Kalos?" Din asked.

"No, I'm from another Region," the woman corrected. "This battle is to get everyone prepared for the Kalos League itself."

"I'll be going onto the field to fight alongside my Pokémon." Din warned.

"Then I'll be sure to hold back." The woman said.

"Don't," Din said, surprising the woman. "I want to know what a battle against a strong opponent here is really like."

"You really want to fight like this?" the woman asked.

Din nodded. "This is the way."

The overhead lights turned green, and both Din and the Champion walked out.

"Welcome, one and all! Today, we have a special match!" the announcer called out. "All the way from the Sinnoh Region, and childhood friends with our Region's very own Diantha, we have Cynthia! And her opponent is a new trainer only known as Mando!"

Everyone in the crowd looked to Din with amazement and curiosity. All he could do in return was look to everyone.

"So, he will be challenging Cynthia?" a man in a blue shirt and black pants asked. "How mysteriously interesting."

"Mando, huh?" a woman next to the man asked, wearing white clothing. "Let's see what this battle will offer, Professor Sycamore."

"Indeed, Diantha."

Din and Cynthia entered the center of the area before Cynthia went to the end. Din stayed where he was and readied his Pokéball.

"The offer still stands for me to hold back," Cynthia called out. "I want this to be fair, after all."

"I don't care if I win or not," Din said. "I only care for the experience I get from battling the best from Sinnoh."

"Well, we need more challengers with your attitude, Mando," Cynthia said as she took out her Pokéball and tossed it. "Garchomp, Battle Dance!" she called out.

"Gar!" Garchomp roared as soon as it was released.

"So that's Garchomp," Din said before tossing his Pokéball into the air. "Time to go, Honedge." He said calmly, letting his Beskar-coated Honedge fly out.

"A Shiny Honedge? This is getting interesting already." Cynthia said.

Din looked to Honedge as Garchomp growled. It slowly turned upside down, handle facing to him.

"You trust me that much?" Din asked in slight surprise. He grabbed the handle of his Honedge and swung it like it were an actual sword.

"Battlers, ready? Begin!"

"Mando, you have the first move!" Cynthia called out.

"I'm honored, but I pass," Din answered, surprising everyone. "Go on ahead."

"A cautious approach, I see," Cynthia said with a smirk. "Okay, then. Dragon Rush!" she called out.

Garchomp flew at Din and Honedge, glowing blue. Din looked in surprise before activating his jetpack, flying out of the way of one shot before seeing Garchomp fly back for another Dragon Rush.

"Whoa!" one spectator exclaimed.

"Can he do that?!" another wondered.

"Because he used outside assistance, Challenger Mando is…"

"No! Keep the match going!" Cynthia protested. "I want to see this through to the end!" she added, getting everyone to calm down. "This fight just might be worthy of my time." She said with an excited grin.

Din looked up as Garchomp flew in for another Dragon Rush. Quickly, he held up Honedge.

"Sword Dance." Din ordered calmly.

Complying, Honedge spun through the air as Garchomp flew in. The Sword Dance move caused Honedge to fly at Garchomp and attack several times before flying back into Din's hand, now glowing silver.

"You trained that Shiny Honedge well," Cynthia complimented. "I admit, I was a bit doubtful that you'd be choosing a Honedge to fight my Garchomp, but now I see why you two make a team."

"I like to look after my team carefully." Din said, though not referring to Honedge.

"As do I," Cynthia said. "Alright, Garchomp, try Draco Meteor!"

Garchomp fired into the air, causing the Draco Meteor attack to take effect. Din noticed this and aimed his arm up, sending out his Whistling Birds.

"What are those?" Diantha asked.

The Whistling Birds let out their signature whistle noise as they countered each of the Draco Meteors. Soon, each of them exploded upon impact before Garchomp roared and charged again.

"Brick Break!" Cynthia ordered.

"Iron Head!" Din ordered.

As Garchomp performed his Brick Break, Din tossed Honedge again, coating itself not with iron, but more Beskar. It slammed into Garchomp's claw and knocked her back, causing everyone to gasp.

"That's an interesting trainer right there." Professor Sycamore said with an interested look on his face.

"Shadow Sneak." Din whispered, letting Honedge fly towards Garchomp. Din followed shortly afterwards with his jetpack.

"Alright, use Flamethrower!" Cynthia called out.

Garchomp launched her Flamethrower, but Din countered back with his own. As the two fires collided, everyone watched before shadows started to surround behind Cynthia's Pokémon.

"That's it." Din said, pushing on.

Garchomp and Cynthia looked on in shock as Honedge slashed at her. Din caught the Honedge after it made its series of attacks before Garchomp used her Brick Break again, but Din swung Honedge, locking with her, before Honedge once again performed Sword Dance, giving an even brighter glow.

"This is fun," Cynthia said. "But it's time to end this! Dragon Claw!" she called out.

Garchomp roared and flew forward, her claws glowing.

"Sacred Sword!" Din called out, flying back as he spun around Honedge. The three made impact on each other, creating an explosion.

Everyone gasped as soon as the smoke from the explosion cleared away. When it did, Din and Honedge were facing away from Garchomp and now towards Cynthia. They all held their breaths before the glow from Garchomp's claws faded. Still on the edge of their seats, Din's Honedge suddenly lost its glow, and fell to the ground, swirls appearing where its eyes would be.

"Honedge is unable to battle! Garchomp is the winner! The victory goes to the visiting Sinnoh Region, Cynthia!"

Everyone cheered as Cynthia looked to the timer. To her surprise, the timer read a close call.

"One second to spare?" Cynthia asked. She looked to Din as he picked up Honedge. "He's the only one who's been able to accomplish that feat," she mused. She turned around and looked to the trophy. "Hmm…"

"You did well, Bud," Din said as he looked to Honedge, appearing to be smiling. "Take a rest now." He said, recalling Honedge into his Pokéball.

Cynthia walked over and petted Garchomp. "Quite the battle there," she said before recalling her Pokémon too. "Take a nice rest."

Din walked up to Cynthia. "Thank you for the match," he said. "It was a good experience."

"You weren't so bad yourself," Cynthia said. She held out the trophy as everyone watched. "You may not have won this fight… but you earned my respect. The prize money is yours."

"I didn't earn it fairly." Din argued.

"You fought in a way no trainer has before," Cynthia said. "Anyone who fights to that caliber… is a winner in my book," she said, placing the trophy in Din's hands. "This is the way."

Din nodded at Cynthia using those words. "This is the way." He repeated.

Everyone cheered at the outcome, including Professor Sycamore and Diantha. The two looked to Din and Cynthia as they turned to the audience, now chanting both their names.

As soon as everyone had calmed down, Din started to leave. As he was, Cynthia looked to him before turning to her agent.

"It seems that this was the only match I had for this month," Cynthia told her. "Tell Jervis that I won't be heading back to Undella Town too soon," she said while seeing Din walk down the road. "I want to spend a little more time here in Kalos."

"Of course," Cynthia's agent replied. "Will you need me around?"

"You can take a break for now," Cynthia said. "If I need anything else, I'll let you know." She said before walking off.

Back at the Pokémon Center, Clemont took out one of his Pokéballs and looked to where Grogu was.

"Alright, Grogu, remember what you did before," Clemont said. "Catch it, and reach out with your powers."

"Clemont, try to keep it low on the powers part," Ash said. "We don't want everyone to know about it!"

"Am I still the only one amazed that Ash is looking after a baby?" Iris asked. "I didn't think a kid could look after another little kid."

"Aren't you and he around the same age?" May asked.

"Beyond the point!" Iris spat.

"Still, I'm amazed he's doing so well with him." Dawn said.

"He's changed a lot for sure," Brock said. "Imagine if Misty could have seen this."

"Go Pokéball!" Clemont called out, tossing his empty Pokéball.

Grogu looked to the Pokéball and held out his hand. It stopped in midair and flew to his own hand like before.

"Alright! You did it, Grogu!" Ash cheered. "Way to go!"

"Ash, shouldn't we be using the ball that Mando gave us for this too?" Serena asked.

"Yeah, we should," Ash said before taking out the knob ball and wagging it in front of Grogu. "Come on, Grogu," he said. "Come and take it, the ball's all yours."

Grogu looked to Ash as he held the ball. However, since he was only used to Din doing it, he just stared blankly.

"Maybe it's a thing that only works with this Mando guy you're talking about," Brock said as he walked over. "So, about him…"

"Who is Mando?" May asked.

"I hope that he's friendly." Dawn said, trying to imagine what he was like.

At the grocery store, Din was looking to the different food around. Like before, some people were looking at him due to his armor, but others who had seen him battle against Cynthia earlier, did not mind, as they only took brief pictures. After he picked out some fruit and meat, as well as what he found was called broth, he made his way to the checkout.

"How much for all this?" Din asked, placing about twenty bags on the belt.

"Let's see…" the registrar said as three men started to go to a register. "That's about one-hundred and fifty dollars right there."

"Stop! Thieves!"

Din looked to see the three men running from the store. Quickly, he shot a cable at two of them and started to reel them in before seeing the third one getting away after recovering from the shock of seeing the Mandalorian. Quickly tying up the two captured robbers, he ran to capture the runaway, knowing he would get in trouble with the law if he used his blaster.

The third man tried to run out, but suddenly, Garchomp appeared and blocked him. Din stopped and saw Cynthia walking in, taking out a bandana before using it to restrain his hands behind his back.

"Looks like you could use some help." Cynthia said.

"Yeah… thanks." Din said.

"Would I be right if I said that was a smile under that helmet?" Cynthia asked playfully.

"You might," Din said before he and Cynthia walked in. He took the money that the robbers stole and placed it on the counter with his own money. "This much, right?" he asked.

"Yes, this will do just fine," the registrar said. "Thank you."

"Seems like a lot for one person," Cynthia said. "Garchomp and I can help you take this where you need to go."

"Thank you." Din said.

Soon, Din and Cynthia were walking back to the Pokémon Center. As they were, Officer Jenny walked up to them.

"Mando?" Officer Jenny asked.

"Are you the guard or the officer?" Din asked. "Or is there some sort of cloning facility here?"

"The guard at the arena is my sister," Officer Jenny explained before handing Din a card. "Anyways, I showed your credit to the broker, and he estimated it is worth five-hundred dollars at least. This has your balance on it, as well as the money you won from that battle."

Din took the Card. "Thank you," he said. "If I show off my credits anywhere else, can you make sure other officers know their worth?"

"I've already sent out a notice," Officer Jenny said. "So far, the unmarked credits you showed are your best bet at money here. I don't know much about your field of work, but based on what you showed me, you seem to have enough. If you're lucky enough, you might find a job that is to your liking."

"I'll keep that in mind," Din said as Cynthia noticed her phone was ringing. "Thank you very much."

Cynthia gave her bag to Garchomp before answering her phone. "Hello?"

"Cynthia, I believe we haven't met yet," Diantha said as she was walking to her apartment suite. "I am Diantha, the Champion of Kalos."

"I've heard much about your battles, Diantha. It is an honor," Cynthia said. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"

"Your match against that Mando person was interesting," Diantha replied back. "If you come across him again, can you relay a message to him?"

"What would that be?"

"If he ever gets more Pokémon, I would like to challenge him myself," Diantha replied. "There has been word among higher figures in Kalos from Anistar City, which includes me and Professor Sycamore," she explained. "If Mando was powerful enough to give you a near victorious challenge, he just might help in what Gym Leader Olympia foretold."

"Should I ask what this vision she saw was?" Cynthia asked, knowing full well about the Psychic-Type Gym Leader.

"Better not to let too many people know," Diantha replied. "But I will be staying here before I see her myself. When you find this Mando, please let him know about my request."

"I will," Cynthia replied as Din walked to her. "Thank you."

"Who was that?" Din asked.

"A friend," Cynthia replied. "So, where are you headed?"

"The Pokémon Center," Din said as he and Cynthia started to walk again. "Your Garchomp is a powerful Pokémon."

"I could say the same about your Honedge." Cynthia replied.

"You said he was a Shiny Pokémon," Din said. "What did you mean?"

"Never heard of any rare types before?" Cynthia asked. "Where are you from?"

"It's a bit…" Din started before seeing Ash chase after Grogu, several Pokéballs in his hands. "Kid!" he yelled.

"Your kid?" Cynthia asked, confused.

"Come on, Grogu!" Ash called as he and his friends chased after Grogu. "We said the ball, not the Pokéballs!"

"Come on!" Dawn called out.

"Grogu, come here!" Serena called.

"Pika!" Pikachu hollered.

Din walked up and stepped in front of Ash, who stopped immediately. Everyone else behind him stopped as well, his older traveling companions stopping just in time before they could cause an accident, as well as to see Din for themselves.

"What happened?" Din asked.

"See, we tried to use the ball you had," Ash said. "But he seemed to like catching our Pokéballs more."

Din sighed. "You did your best," he said before holding his hand out. "Ball, please."

Ash nodded and gave the knob ball back to Din. Cynthia placed the bags down on a chair nearby, with Garchomp doing the same, before seeing Din approach Grogu.

"That's Mando?" Iris asked. "Why is he wearing a helmet?"

"Don't ask me." Clemont replied.

"Grogu," Din said, getting Grogu to look up. "You've had a busy day today, but those balls aren't yours. This is what you want," he said, holding the ball up. "You can have it. Just put those down… and take this from me."

Everyone watched as Grogu slowly put the balls down. As soon as they rolled back to their rightful owners, he held his hand out slowly, and the knob ball floated to his own hand.

"Good work," Din said. He looked over to see the other friends who had joined Ash. "Dank Farrik." He cursed, letting out a sigh upon knowing this would take a long time to explain.

"So, this is your kid?" Cynthia asked, kneeling down to Grogu. "I'd guess he's a young Pokémon, but I'd probably be wrong."

"Ash," Din said as he looked to May, Dawn, Iris and Brock. "Can these four be trusted?"

"They're my friends, Mando," Ash said. "I can vouch for them with my life."

"Better than the last one who said it," Din said. "How much did you see of the kid?" he asked.

"Enough to be confused," Brock answered. "Can you tell us what he's all about?"

Din looked around, scanning the area outside before doing the same inside. "We need a private place to talk." He said.

In the bushes, Jessie, James and Meowth were hiding, having been there after seeing the failed attempts of the Stormtroopers to shoot a Pokémon.

"I knew that twerp was a curious one," Jessie said. "But he has moves that makes look like a Psychic Pokémon!"

"Good thing we didn't wait for those poor shots to find us," James said. "If this green twerp is the asset they mentioned, we'd better know more about him so we can find out our next move."

"And then we can tell the boss." Meowth said.

"Wobbuffet!" Wobbuffet agreed.

Inside, Pikachu, Dedenne, Squishy, Piplup and Iris's Pokémon, Axew, were keeping Grogu preoccupied, the long-time Pokémon of Ash doing various Pokémon impressions to entertain the child. As they were together, Din was in front of Ash and his friends, with Cynthia as well.

"What I'm about to tell you is to remain a secret," Din said. "You are not to tell anyone else what I am about to say about the kid."

"Whatever's going on with Grogu, you can count on us to help." Clemont said.

"After all, he's so cute!" Bonnie awed.

Din looked to Grogu. "He is," he agreed. "But he's in danger too."

"What kind of danger?" Serena asked.

"I mentioned two groups, the Empire and the New Republic," Din started to explain. "Only one of them is after Grogu… the Empire."

"Why would this empire want a little kid?" Iris asked.

"As you noticed, he has this power, one that I can't explain," Din said. Though Ahsoka explained to him the Force, he was unable to word it for himself. "It comes from a group of sorcerers called Jedi. I don't know many of them, but I was tasked to return him to his own kind, to another Jedi."

"How did the Empire become involved?" Cynthia asked.

"Before I met Grogu, I was a simple Bounty Hunter, tasked with doing any job," Din explained. "One of my jobs was to find the kid and take him to them, but after some time with him, I rescued him, and kept him away from the Empire. I didn't know why they wanted him… until a Moff named Gideon came to take him. He ordered his men to kill my friend, Kuiil, and take him, but once again, I saved him with the help of some of my other friends. We've been running ever since, and only a few weeks ago did I know why they wanted him."

"Which was what?" Dawn asked.

"On my way to find a Jedi named Ahsoka Tano, I helped my friends destroy an Imperial Base… or what we thought was one," Din explained. "It wasn't a base… it was a lab, and there, I found some sort of experiments, like a cloning procedure. It was why I was uncertain of Jenny," he said, looking to Cynthia. "But when looking through the work, I found this transmission," he said, putting a holographic puck down, showing Doctor Pershing. "Doctor Pershing, a man who had Grogu for a while, was recorded sending this."

"… Replicated the results of the subsequent trials, which also resulted in catastrophic failure. There were promising effects for an entire fortnight, but, then, sadly, the body rejected the blood," the recording of Dr. Pershing said, making May and Iris a bit uneasy. "I highly doubt we'll find a donor with a higher M-count, though. I recommend that we suspend all experimentation."

"On what?" Brock asked.

"I don't like this." Bonnie said nervously as the Pokémon watched with unease as well.

"I fear that the volunteer will meet the same regrettable fate if we proceed with the transfusion. Unfortunately, we have exhausted our initial supply of blood."

"From Grogu?" Ash asked.

All Cynthia and Serena could do was place their hands to their mouths in horror at the thought of taking blood from Grogu.

"The Child is small, and I was only able to harvest a limited amount without killing him."

"The Empire… they're worse than Cyrus!" Dawn muttered.

"Worse than Team Rocket too." Iris whispered.

"I gotta agree with the twerps," James said as he, Jessie and Meowth listened in from a hidden recorder. "Taking Pokémon from someone is one thing, but to take something like blood… that's unforgivable."

"I'd never inflict that on my worst enemy, Dat's for sure." Meowth said.

"If these experiments are to continue as requested, we would again require access to the donor. I will not disappoint you again, Moff Gideon."

"I keep that around to remind myself to never let Grogu fall into Moff Gideon's hands, or anyone else in the Empire," Din said, turning off the recording as it started to replay. "I didn't want to tarnish your innocence, but you wanted to know why Grogu was so special… now you know why," he said. "I stopped on this planet just to get fuel and food on my way to reunite him with his kind, but now if the Empire were to ever come here and track down the kid… I was trying to avoid making bonds with anyone so I would keep them safe."

Everyone stood silent, still trying to recover from the information that Dr. Pershing revealed he had for Grogu.

Instantly, Ash's fist clenched. Before he could speak, Brock beat him to it.

"Mando, do you plan on taking on this Empire alone?" Brock asked.

"Initially," Din replied. "I don't want you to get—"

"No need to worry about us getting hurt," Dawn said. "If anyone wants to get Grogu for his powers, blood or anything else… then so help me…"

"There's no way you're taking them alone!" Ash exclaimed, though not too loud for anyone else outside to hear. "They took blood from Grogu already! We're not gonna let them take more!"

"We're staying with you to keep Grogu away from those Imperial Scum!" Iris exclaimed.

"I get that we don't know a lot about what we're dealing with," Clemont said, adjusting his glasses. "But that man tarnishes the name of science by extracting blood from a child. I will not stand idly by while a group like the Empire hunts him down."

"So count us in," Serena finished up. "If the Empire shows up here, they'll be sorry they set foot on our planet while Grogu is in our care."

Din almost felt everyone saw him gape under his helmet. He looked to Cynthia, who had a fearful look on her face as she looked to Grogu.

"You all want to fight the Empire, huh?" Din asked.

"We're gonna do anything to protect Grogu," Cynthia said. "You can count on that."

"You're all brave, thank you," Din said. "Tomorrow, I can show you what you'll be up against if the Empire shows up here. For now, we all need some rest."

"The Empire scares me," Bonnie said. "But I'm gonna sleep tonight, knowing that we'll put those bullies in their place!"

"So, what are you doing here, Cynthia?" Ash asked, turning to Cynthia as he tried to get his mind off of the situation.

"I was in Johto a while back, where I was a special guest of honor at a Pokémon Contest," Cynthia explained. "I found Dawn, May and Brock there, and Iris joined with a newfound Gibble she apparently captured."

"Awesome! So you've got a Gibble now too!" Ash exclaimed, looking to Iris with a smile.

"Yeah," Iris said, chuckling nervously. "It's a long story, the way I caught it."

"I was heading to Kalos to meet with Professor Sycamore about his Mega Evolution research, and to head an Exhibition Match to promote the Kalos League," Cynthia went on. "While I was preparing, I asked the others to go to the Pokémon Center. I had no idea you'd be here too."

"Good thing we're all here now," Ash said. "We're gonna show the Empire what's what if they dare go after Grogu again!"

"Pikachu!"

"Dedenne!"

"Pip Piplup!"

"Axew Ew!"

Din just watched before everyone went to sleep later on. He walked over to Grogu and kept him in his lap as they slept as well.

The next morning, Cynthia and Din picked up their Pokéballs.

"You ever gonna show me the face behind that mask?" Cynthia asked.

Din remained silent and nodded to Nurse Joy respectfully. She nodded back and patted Grogu on the head before walking out.

"Silent type, I see," Cynthia mused, smirking playfully. "I'll get behind that eventually."

"You're all certain you want to help?" Din asked everyone as they headed to the forest.

"You're not gonna change our minds." Serena said playfully.

"We're helping out in any way we can." Ash said.

"I might need your guidance. It sounds like you have the most experience," Din told Ash. "Now, do you prefer walking to the next town…" he started before showing the Razor Crest hidden behind the bushes. "Or flight?"

"Wow…" Clemont said as everyone stood amazed. "This is incredible!"

"No," Ash said, grinning at Din. "This is the way… the Pokémon way."

Author's Notes: Did you all enjoy my Christmas Chapter? It took longer than I thought, but I managed to work it out. While the traveling group is big, each member will be getting their time to shine, chapters to be named for each of them based on what they specialize in. Special thanks to GhostSlinger15 for his help and ideas. There will be shipping later on, and I don't just mean between Ash and Serena. Please review, rate, and if you can, PM me for anything on the Story. For now, SuperHeroTimeFan is wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years. See you soon!