Orange Islands Unknown Location

A fortress of metal sailed the skies, hundreds of turbines propelling it through the air. Three creatures, reddish-orange, yellow, and blue, cry out in pain, engulfed in metal cages. A boy and his friends bang their fists against the structures, attempting to free them. High above, a strangely dressed man with green hair sit on a throne, looking down at them all. One eye is covered by a strange red device and the other is red in and of itself. He wears a malicious smile. The raven-haired boy stares up at the man with loathing as the man speaks.

"O, Chosen One. Into thine hands bring together all three. Their treasures combined tame the beast of the sea." The boy looks at him in confusion, but has no time to process the information as explosions rock the fortress. The man laughs uncontrollably and the last thing the boy sees is the twisted red eye and a look of utter insanity. Then, fire and blood.

Sunburst Island Beach

Ash Red Ketchum's eyes flew open, and the boy breathed hard, looking from side to side. Taking in his surroundings, he started to relax. He was still here on Sunburst Island, meditating on the beach with his master. His Pokemon are training, acting as if all is well. Brock and Tracey are getting into things, holding a mock battle. Scratch that, looks like Vulpix just knocked out Venonat. The world is not ending. Everything is fine.

Is it though? Ash thought, perturbed from his dream, or was it a vision?

"Apprentice, are you alright?" Lucario asked, his eyes now open as well and focused on the boy beside him.

"I… I'm fine master. It's nothing. I'm just tired. Think I need to switch things up and go train with my Pokemon" Lucario looked at the boy intensely, keeping his gaze on him, but he relented with a slow nod, much to Ash's relief, allowing him to walk away.

Speaking of Pokemon training, Ash's latest victory had not slowed the boy down in that regard at all. The past two weeks following the triumph at the previous Pokemon Gym were packed with intense workouts for Ash and his Pokemon. Scyther had started to come around, taking suggestions from Ash in his training routines. He still refused to partner with another Pokemon though. Ah well, progress is progress.

Today, things were a bit lighter though. Tracey, Ash's newest friend, had decided he wanted the group to visit Sunburst Island. Well known for the custom-made crystal products, Sunburst Island was quite the tourist attraction. The talented sketch artist did not drag everyone out here for that though. He had long heard rumors of a fabled Crystal Pokemon that was said to live here. Ash was fine with the stop itself, figuring that it might be cool to see such a rare Pokemon. The fact that the island was in the general direction of the next gym didn't hurt either. Brock, breeder extraordinaire, was of a similar mind.

Wrapping up training with his Pokemon, enjoying a Brock Special for lunch, and helping to clean camp, Ash and his friends made their way into the village.

Sunburst Island Village

"Wow!" exclaimed Brock, reacting to the wide assortment of crystal products on display. Dozens of shops filled to the brim with crystal vases, glasses, lamps, and even furniture, made up the marketplace. Each shop seemed to be equally packed with tourists as well.

"We'll never find out anything about the Crystal Pokemon with all this going on," moaned Tracey.

"I'm sure there's a shop somewhere around here that isn't too busy," consoled Brock.

"How about that place on the corner?" asked Ash, pointing to a single small wooden store that seemed to be void of any and all customers. Having no better idea, the others shrugged, and they made their way forward together towards the store, with Espeon and Lucario also tagging along. Once inside, their eyes were drawn to a copious amount of Crystal Pokemon figurines lining multiple shelves.

"Hey, that's a pretty good Pikachu!" praised Ash, spotting one of the creations.

Man, I miss my buddy. Hope he's doing well in Pallet Town.

"Thanks for the compliment mister. You going to buy something or are you just here to stare?" Three humans and two Pokemon whirled their heads around to the tiny form of a young girl. She was wearing a yellow sundress and had rose-red hair done in the color of pigtails.

"Sorry for not seeing you there behind the counter, and uh no we're not here to buy anything," Ash answered apologetically. The girl gave an exasperated sigh and shook her head, muttering under her breath before looking back up.

"Fine. Get out and go get a nice cup like the rest of the tourists somewhere else," spat the girl, walking towards a back exit.

"Hey now. I'm sorry if we offended you, but we were hoping you might know something about the Crystal Pokemon?" Tracey tried.

"The Crystal Pokemon?" the suddenly still girl repeated in a quiet voice.

"Yeah. We saw that your shop was emp—" continued Ash until Tracey elbowed the boy in the gut.

"What my friend was trying to say is that we really want to find the Crystal Pokemon."

"Well… then you've come to the right place!" the suddenly beaming girl exclaimed, turning back to the group.

"I'm Marisa and my brother and I have been searching for the Crystal Onix for years. It's good to meet some fellow searchers. Maybe you could help?"

"An Onix?" Brock asked, picking up on that specification.

"Marisa, I hope you haven't been annoying potential customers with that sad old story," an older teen said from the back entrance. The boy had short brown hair and wore a yellow apron with a long-sleeved blue shirt underneath.

"Big brother, it's not hopeless!" argued back the girl.

"So, you think this Crystal Onix is a myth then?" Ask asked with interest, now focusing on the older boy. He frowned at that, before responding.

"No. I just don't think it can be found," clarified the man.

"But you have tried to find it," Ash pushed back.

"For many years."

"Why put in all that effort just to throw in the towel?" asked Brock. The man gave a derisive laugh.

"Your friend tried to say it himself. Look around you. Our shop is standing on its last legs. If we don't get more customers, we'll be forced to shutdown. The Crystal Onix was my last attempt to fix the situation."

"How could a Crystal Onix help you get customers?" Tracey asked.

"The same way it helped my grandfather. Many years ago, it was him who ran this shop. The crystal wonders he made were beyond anything you see here, and the people knew it too. This shop was always packed from opening to closing. Whenever I asked him how he made such beloved creations, he always told the same story. He claimed to have encountered the Crystal Onix here on the island. The sight of it gave him inspiration to create beautiful Pokemon figurines. I've never really been able to capture what made his creations so special, so I hoped seeing or even catching this Onix would help. That's a childish dream though. I've searched the island countless times over the years, never coming close to any Crystal Onix," sighed the boy.

"Your figurines don't look that bad. I thought that Pikachu was pretty cool," said Ash.

"Wait here," ordered the older boy, walking out the back. A few moments later he returned holding a large crystal Onix, sparkling radiantly in a pose to strike.

"Woah," Tracey whistled appreciatively.

"This is art! It was what my grandfather created right after his encounter with the Onix. This thing was made years ago and shines with a bright light that outstrips everything else you see in this shop. I'm just not good enough…"

"Then let us help!" Tracey urged.

"With all due respect, what could a bunch of strangers not native to the island have to offer?" the older boy asked skeptically with his arms crossed.

"Well, have you every considered using Pokemon to help?" Ash offered.

"I have, but my own don't exactly have the skills you would need to find another Pokemon.

"Leave that to me. I think I have just the Pokemon for the job," winked Tracey.

Sunburst Island Beach

The older boy relented, agreeing to put in the time for one final try. He introduced himself as Mateo and his sister Marisa joined in the search as well. After some reciprocations from the trio, it was back to the vast beaches that seemed present on every part of the Orange Islands.

Tracey's Marill led a procession of trainers and Pokemon. The artist had borrowed Ash's Pokedex, playing a sound of an Onix's cry for his Pokemon to memorize. Using her big ears, Marill pushed forward, doing her best to pick up any inkling of an Onix. She wasn't the only one on the lookout though.

"Apprentice, can you sense the aura of this Crystal Onix?" Lucario asked, walking by Ash. The raven-haired boy closed his eyes, taking deep breaths and focusing on those around him.

"I can sense the aura of the people and Pokemon around us master. No Onix though," answered the slightly despondent boy. Had Ash actually looked at his teacher, he would have seen a slight smirk on the jackal's face at that answer.

"Marill!" chirped the small round Pokemon, jumping up and down from where she just stopped.

"Worry not. It would seem that Marill has found something," japed Lucario.

"What is it Marill?" an eager Tracey asked, kneeling next to his Pokemon.

"Marill! Marill!" repeated the Pokemon, pointing out to a small island separated by a couple hundred feet of water.

"But how can we possibly—" Mateo's answer came before he finished the sentence. The tide slowly began to recede, and a pathway came into view. The way forward was clear.

"You need more faith big brother," Marisa grinned, walking ahead.

"Maybe I do," Mateo chuckled to himself, following the girl with the others. As they got closer, walking through the path, other Pokemon began to pick up on it as well.

"I can feel something down there underground. It's old and powerful, but it's there," spoke Espeon. Lucario didn't feel the need to comment, but he nodded his head in agreement. They were getting closer. Once on the small island, the group came upon a small cave entrance.

"Look at those crystals! They share the same sparkle as that Onix figurine you showed us earlier Mateo," observed Brock, pointing to pieces of crystals at the entrance.

"They do. Add that to what the Pokemon are picking up and I think we can guarantee that Onix is somewhere inside. Let's keep moving," the boy said with resolve. Deep into the cave the gang ventured, encountering even more crystal along the way. All of it sparkled with that radiant sheen.

"This stuff is a way better quality than what I sell, or what anyone else sells for that matter," commented Mateo.

"You think that was grandpa's secret?" Marisa pondered.

"It could have been part of it, but the man was an artistic genius. It takes more than good parts to make true art," chided Mateo. Continuing this vein of conversation, the group went even deeper. Eventually, they found themselves in front of a lake within the cave itself.

"A dead end?" frowned Tracey.

"No… there's something here. Be on your guard," Ash warned, looking at the lake suspiciously.

"I-I think I just saw a pair of eyes in the lake!" gasped Brock.

"ROOAAAAR!" cried out a giant crystal serpent, emerging from the lake with a great roar.

"THE ONIX!" Tracey yelled in awe, promptly pulling out his sketch pad.

"Now's your chance Mateo!" echoed Ash

"Right then. I choose you Cloyster!" The purple crustation materialized in front of Mateo, shell open and ready to go.

"Use Water Pulse!"

"Cloyster!" cried the Water Pokemon, shooting a pulse of water straight ahead towards Onix. The Rock Snake didn't even attempt a dodge, dashing forward through the attack and slamming his head into Cloyster, smashing the poor Pokemon into a wall.

"Head Smash," Ash muttered, recognizing the attack. Meanwhile, poor Cloyster was out for the count, destroyed in a single attack.

"No way… Onix is a Rock Pokemon. That attack should have done serious damage," Mateo mumbled.

"Snap out of it! I think the crystal may have altered Onix's natural typing to Steel. Do you have a Fire Pokemon?" Ash asked.

"Y-Yeah. Thanks. Come on out Charmeleon and use Fire Spin!" yelled Mateo, sending out the fire lizard. Charmeleon emerged, spewing flames immediately. Onix's previous attack had drawn him closer to the group and away from the water, leaving him no time to dodge, and so the attack connected.

"ROAAAR!" Onix screamed in pain, enveloped in a vortex of fire. His eyes radiated anger, staring down Mateo and Charmeleon while the flames licked his body. Mateo's own eyes widened, seeing the fire and crystalline body play off one another, creating a truly marvelous sight. His right-hand shook, close to a Pokeball, ready to throw it. Then, it stopped, and the boy relaxed, sending a grateful smile to the rock snake.

"Stop the attack Charmeleon," Mateo softly spoke.

"But big brother," the bewildered Marisa protested. Mateo simply shook his head and confirmed the order. Onix was free. Sending one final glare at the large group and giving Mateo a nod of respect, the crystal Pokemon dove back into the lake, disappearing from view.

"Why?" cried out Marisa, close to tears.

"Because I saw what I needed Marisa," smiled Mateo, kneeling down to the little girl.

"I was inspired. The Crystal Onix helped me to see in a way that I think grandpa saw. Locking it up and stopping future generations from benefitting didn't seem right. Besides, some things are just meant to be free." The girl gave a reluctant nod, while Ash and Brock smiled proudly in the background. Tracey of course was putting the finishing touches on his own artistic creation. All in all, it was another marvelous day for them in the world of Pokemon.

Sunburst Island Pokemon Center

"Apprentice Ash," Lucario spoke to the boy meditating beside him on the bed in the Pokemon Center.

"Yes master?" Ash asked, keeping his own eyes closed and breathing deeply to stay in a state of dignified meditation.

"You are ready to proceed with the next step of your training…"

"REALLY!" the jubilant boy crowed, jumping up, before quickly composing himself.

"I mean really master?"

"Yes. Your ability to instantly sense the aura of those around you on the beach today and picking up on the Onix in the cave prior to its emergence has proved your abilities. In addition to continued meditation, we will begin practicing some aura techniques," lectured Lucario, before smirking once more.

"Of course, we will still be having that spar I spoke of," darkly chuckled the Pokemon, prompting Ash to face-fault.

"But you said I was ready!" accused the boy.

"So I did. You will still prove it in combat on the morrow and blindfolded at that. Sleep well apprentice," finished the Pokemon, standing up to walk away. At the door, Lucario turned back, gazing at the boy in a more serious manner.

"Ash… are you sure there isn't something you wish to tell me? Anything at all?" Ash was immediately taken aback, and his face revealed his inner conflict, if only for a moment.

Well, I have had those weird dreams. What if there is something more to them? Should I ask my master? Mom said to be open to my friends… no. They're just dreams. I won't worry him with them. Not yet.

"No Master. Nothing at all," solemnly answered the boy, even if a creep of doubt lingered in his young mind.

Cerulean City Nugget Bridge

The sunset was a true marvel in beautiful Cerulean City. The light from the last of the suns rays reflected on the water in a myriad of color. Cerulean's spitfire Gym Leader leaned over the bridge, appreciating the sight after another day of good work. Along for the ride, held closely in her arms, was a white egg with colorful blue and red patterns.

"It took him a while, but he did it. Jimmy beat me fair and square. Now he's off to continue his dream of being a Pokemon Master, just like countless others. Just like Ash," Misty mused aloud with a smile.

Helping Jimmy to reignite his passion was amazing! My team and I have grown so much over these last few weeks together too. If we keep this up, we really have a shot of impressing Lorelei. And yet…

"I miss them. Brock's cooking, knowledge, and hopeless flirting. Ash's determination, obliviousness, and passion for Pokemon. I miss my best friends," sighed Misty.

Can I really give it all up? The adventuring, comradery, friendship… all of it gone in exchange for a dream. What's right?

"I feel like I'm being pulled in two directions. If this keeps up, I'm going to split in—"

CRACK

"What? Omigosh!" cried Misty, eyes going as wide as saucers. The egg in her hand was coming apart, giving way to new life.

"Prii!"

Orange Islands Open Seas

Another day in the Orange Islands and another day on Lapras for Ash and his friends as they sail the ocean blue. As always, the sun is out, skies are blue, and not a cloud is in the sky. A few days had passed since the adventure on Sunburst Island. Ash and Co. had departed the island with gratitude from Mateo and Marisa for their help in discovering the mysterious Crystal Onix. They also managed to get a few cool souvenirs from the trip in the form of some free crystal figurines.

Tracey had been on cloud 9 since the trip, marveling at his own beautiful sketch of the Crystal Onix, bathed in the flames from a Fire Spin. Brock had enjoyed the trip himself, always happy to encounter rare Pokemon, but otherwise was his normal self.

Ash, well Ash was still sporting a few bruises. The day after the encounter with the Onix he had his fateful spar with Lucario, blindfolded of course. Unfortunately for Ash, he didn't manage to land a single hit and Lucario landed several, creating the aforementioned bruises. However, what Ash did manage to do was to sense the movements of his master, allowing the boy to block several of the oncoming attacks with his own staff. Lucario was more than satisfied and as he promised, the duo moved onto a new training technique. Ash was overjoyed to find out that it was the technique he had been waiting to learn from the beginning. Energy redirection.

Lucario expanded on this technique in great detail, covering far more information than what he had divulged in Pallet Town. Lucario reiterated that failure to properly apply the technique could result in an overload of energy inflow, leading to Ash's own precarious situation back on New Island. From there, the new information came. According to Lucario, energy redirection was developed by a wise Aura Master in a long-lost age. The Legend goes that this master taught the technique to his nephew, who used it to assist in the take down the master's tyrant brother and niece. As for how the technique works, it involves letting the energy enter the body through the fingertips, up the arm to the stomach, and out the other arm. All of this would happen in seconds. Simple as it sounded, it was quite the opposite. Lucario had set Ash on practicing the proper form for the technique but was not quite satisfied enough for a practical application yet. Ash stuck to it though, and he learned.

For now, the group relaxed as they sailed the waves, getting ever close to Ash's second Gym Battle in the Orange Islands. Well, they were relaxing.

ZOOM!

A small white motorboat swiftly sped by the gang, drenching everyone in copious amounts of water. Needless to say, Ash was not pleased.

"Why those no good jerks! Who do they think they are?" grumbled Ash, trying to squeeze the water out of his official Pokemon League hat.

"Good thing my body protected the sketch. That was a close one," Tracey sighed in relief, grasping onto his precious notepad.

"It looks like they are heading for that island over there," added Brock. Shifting his eyes, Ash saw what his friend did. There was a small island on the horizon.

Maybe I can give them a piece of my mind, and Lapras could probably use a rest.

"Let's follow them Lapras. Full speed ahead!" ordered Ash. The Ice Pokemon cried her agreement, swimming for the island ahead of them. Twenty minutes later, everyone was safely on dry land once more.

"Thanks for the hard work Lapras. Return for a nice rest," praised Ash, calling back his Pokemon. Lapras was promptly replaced with Princess, who continued to despise residing in her own Pokeball. Everyone took a few minutes to stretch out from the Lapras ride and then they went off, following the tracks from those who had exited the boat. A few minutes of traveling off the beach and through some trees brought the gang to a most interesting sight. Ahead of them was a camp full of individuals garbed in cream colored clothing. Also of note was what looked to be a reporter, camera crew, and a large tent at the very back of the camp.

"They look like some kind of explorers," commented Tracey, already starting another sketch.

"What could they be looking for in a place like this though?" questioned Brock, turning to see that Ash had apparently decided to find out for himself. The boy in question was walking towards the reporter near the tent. As Ash got nearer, he started to pick up on what was being said.

"That's right folks, we are about to begin an expedition on this uncharted island in the Orange Islands. What will we find? Let's ask the expert!" dramatically pronounced the reporter, looking into a camera with an ever-present smile. Out of the tent walked the unusual sight of a Nurse Joy decked out in an explorer's outfit of her own, complete with a bowl hat.

"Nurse Joy, what are you and your team hoping to accomplish here today?" asked the reporter.

"Today we are here on an archeological dig. My name is Nurse Joy and I am heading up this expedition. Recently, a Kabuto fossil was found on the beach of this island by a traveler. This was brought to my team's attention and we're here to see if there's more to this story. Hopefully, there will be plenty of other fossils to be found," smiled the nurse.

"What will you do if you do find the fossils?"

"From our initial scans of the fossil that was brought to our attention, an oil exists on the shell of the fossilized Kabuto. It has some amazing healing properties that could be utilized to improve the lives of both people and Pokemon. I'm hoping we can find a large enough sample to grow our own supply."

"You heard it here first folks! Stay tuned as we continue our documentary to find the amazing, fossilized Kabuto," chirped the reporter.

"And we're clear," called the camera man, prompting the peppy reporter to slump and walk off, badgering the poor man about camera angles and what not.

"Uh, excuse me miss, did you say you were here to look for fossilized Pokemon?" Ash asked the nurse. Said Nurse was surprised to see a young boy, two teenagers, and foreign Pokemon in front of her.

"Yes I did young man, but how did you and your friends even get on this island? This is supposed to be a private archeological dig," frowned the woman. To Ash and Tracey's surprise, it was Brock who answered. Brock talking to a Nurse Joy is hardly a shocking event, but the manner he opted to speak in was quite unusual.

"A fair question Nurse Joy. My friends and I were sailing on a Lapras when a speedboat blew by and soaked us all in water. We saw the boat approaching this island and were a bit curious, and admittedly weary from our traveling. Now that we're here though, would it be a terrible inconvenience if we tagged along with you and your expedition team? We would do our best to help and stay out of trouble," offered a very polite Brock. Ash's jaw nearly hit the floor, while Tracey was quite amazed, having heard more than a few stories about the other teen's exploits with pretty girls.

"That makes sense, and we could always use a few more hands. Welcome aboard!" beamed Nurse Joy, offering a hand, which Brock shook with an equal smile.

What a weird start to the day, thought Ash.

Uncharted Island Rocky Pathway

"Ash, I'm starting to get tired of this," sighed Tracey, massaging his forehead.

"I just can't get over it. Brock has been having a full-fledged conversation with a Nurse Joy for the past hour and he's completely fine!" the bewildered boy spat back.

"Maybe he's just matured?" offered Tracey, continuing to walk the rocky path with the rest of the crew.

"Matured my butt," Ash scoffed, following along. Elsewhere in the caravan, near Brock and Nurse Joy, the same reporter from earlier continued her documentary.

"We are now a few hours into our adventure on this uncharted island. Danger lurks around every corner, but we venture on, ready to discover secrets lost to the ages of history! Up ahead we're coming up on some steep cliffs. Will we be able to conquer this obstacle and push on? Keep watching to find out," winked the woman.

"So, what's the plan to scale these cliffs Nurse Joy?" Brock asked his companion.

"Just watch and find out. Come on out and help!" cried the girl, throwing a Pokeball into the air. A burly Rhydon burst from the small device.

"Rhydon here is going to utilize Rock Climb."

"Hmm, I think I may have a Pokemon who can… NURSE JOY MOVE!" Brock yelled tackling the girl to the ground just before a giant boulder crushed where she previously had been.

"THERE'S MORE BROCK!" Ash yelled, pointing to two more oncoming boulders rolling down the cliff side.

"CUBONE, COME OUT AND USE BONEMARANG!"

"HORNDRILL RHYDON!" the recovered Nurse added. Cubone appeared on the scene immediately tossing his bone towards one of the rocks, while Rhydon jumped in front of the downed humans with his horn spinning wildly.

CRACK! The boulder from Bonemarang split in two, harmlessly falling away to the sides. Meanwhile, the other boulder was pulverized into a fine dust curtesy of Rhydon.

"Are you ok Nurse Joy?" the apprehensive Brock asked as he helped her up.

"I'm fine. Thanks for the save Brock," smiled the nurse, dusting herself off.

"Apprentice, look up there!" barked Lucario. Ash jerked his head upward, spotting what Lucario must have seen right away.

"There's a guy running away. I think he may have pushed those boulders down. I'm going after him!" Ash yelled to the rest of the group, running up to the rocky slopes and scaling the wall. Thanks to training with Lucario, he was actually managing pretty well. Of course, Lucario himself was far faster than his apprentice.

"Took your time didn't you?" laughed Lucario, as Ash huffed from the climb. The boy shot his master a quick glare before sprinting after the fiend that had attacked them. If he was more mindful, he might have heard the put-out cries of Espeon who had been left at the base of the wall with everyone else.

"Can you sense him nearby?" spoke Lucario, running by Ash's side. Ash didn't comment, opting to cast his senses out and focus.

THERE! Ash turned to the left fast, diving through some bushes and tackling the crouched down form of a middle-aged man.

"Got you!" proclaimed the determined boy. The old man merely moaned in pain. Maybe Ash was a bit too enthusiastic.

1 Hour Later

The rest of the group managed to catch up with a little effort, largely thanks to Rhydon and Brock's Onix. Likewise, the man Ash had tackled had also managed to recover, though he was still sporting an icepack as he laid against a tree. He had grey hair, wore a dark blue vest, a light blue shirt, and green cargo pants.

"Sir, can you please explain why you tossed those rocks down at us? Someone could have been seriously injured," scolded Nurse Joy, who was looking down at the man with the rest of the group. Naturally, the cameras were rolling.

"I wasn't trying to hurt you or anyone else. I just wanted you off the island. It's for your own good!" the man answered in a gruff voice.

"Care to elaborate?" the reporter enthusiastically interjected.

"There's a prophecy about this place. Passed down from generations of watchers on this island," started the man. Ash focused intensely here, thoughtful of very relevant dreams he had been having.

"A prophecy?" murmured Nurse Joy.

"Aye. When the scavengers come the moon will glow an angry red, and the land itself will be swallowed by the sea," recited the man.

"We're not here to scavenge. We are here to explore and discover things for the good of humanity and Pokemon," Nurse Joy answered firmly.

"Turn back while you can!" admonished the man.

"We will keep going!" declared Nurse Joy, walking on ahead. Most were skeptical of the man's words anyways, so hardly anyone had a problem following her lead. Ash remained deep in thought, sticking to himself near the back of the group. He did notice that the man opted to follow them, albeit from a distance. It got darker and darker outside, but everyone pressed on, leading them all to yet another cave. Taking the lead, Nurse Joy and Brock entered.

"Nurse Joy, do you mind if I ask you something?" the teen shyly spoke.

"You just did," she replied with soft laughter.

"You know what I mean," a flustered Brock answered.

"Go ahead then."

"How do you do it?" Brock asked bluntly. Nurse Joy blinked.

"Do what?"

"How do you reconcile being a Nurse and an Archeologist? Don't you need to be in a Pokemon Center, helping Pokemon out and learning the newest techniques?"

"Hmm… I'll answer your question Brock, but why do you ask?"

"Well… I… I may have been running into a conflict of my own. My friends both have clearly defined dreams. Ash wants to be a Pokemon Master, so he travels around catching Pokemon, battling trainers, and getting stronger. My friend Misty wants to be a Water Pokemon Master. She's back at the Cerulean City Gym doing intense training. I've never really liked fighting much, but I do love Pokemon. For the longest time, I thought I might want to be a Pokemon Breeder. Traveling around with my friends to satisfy my thirst for adventure seemed like a good way to pick up techniques. Lately though," Brock sighed.

"Lately?" pressed Nurse Joy.

"I've had some thoughts. On my journey, I've kind of been the go-to guy for treating the Pokemon on the road. To be honest, I really like it. Helping Pokemon feel better. Treating their wounds. It makes me happy. I've started to consider entering the Pokemon Healthcare industry. But I also love to travel. I spent most of my childhood looking after my younger siblings and the thought of studying at some school in a single place just doesn't sit right with me. I want to continue to explore the world with my friends, but I want to learn more about helping Pokemon," finished the exasperated Brock.

"I see. It's not easy Brock, but I don't see why you can't do both. As an archeologist, I am often called to travel all over the world. It does seem to clash with my duties as a Pokemon Nurse doesn't it? Still, I manage. Everywhere I go I am on the look out for injured Pokemon. I constantly check the local Pokemon Centers in my travels to see if they need any additional help. I spend hours researching medical journals and studying new treatments. I make the time to do both Brock. With effort, I know you can do the same," smiled the nurse, patting Brock's shoulder.

"Yeah, I think you may be right," Brock nodded with a bit more confidence.

"HEY! I THINK I FOUND SOMETHING!" a random archeologist yelled from a side passage. The rest of the group descended on the man like locusts, finding themselves in a chamber in front of a wall. On the wall, the man pointed to his discovery. Countless fossils were latched onto it, looking like little rocky bumps from a distance.

"W-We did it!" exclaimed Nurse Joy.

"There's got to be hundreds of them!" cried another.

"Is the camera rolling? Good! The discovery of a lifetime ladies and gentlemen! In this dark and gloomy cave on an island lost to time in the Orange Archipelago, these brave archeologists have struck gold! Well not gold, but a large array of actual Kabuto fossils! Never before has such a large amount of ancient Pokemon been found in a single location like this!" babbled the reporter, continuing her spiel.

"What a sight! This will make for a great sketch," Tracey said to himself, pulling out his notepad.

"I wonder how good these little guys were in a battle. Would have been cool to see," commented Ash. Brock stuck to Nurse Joy, watching her carefully clean a specimen on the wall and observe the finer details up close.

"See if you can grab a fossil so we can get a shot up close George!" ordered the reporter. The camera man merely sighed, walking over to yank one off the wall.

"WAIT!" yelled the old man from earlier, catching up to the group. It was too late. The camera man had already pulled a fossil from it's resting place. The cave began to rumble something fierce, and the roof collapsed all around the group. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

"YOU FOOLS! LOOK UP ABOVE YOU!" roared the old man. All eyes relocated up, and then they saw it. The moon was red, bathing the now exposed cavern in a bloody light.

"The prophecy," Ash breathed, his heart racing at the implication.

"That's not the only thing red. Look around us!" Tracey yelled. Red eyes crowded the wall. The fossils came to life and Kabuto swarmed the cave, passing the humans and exiting.

"They're leaving?" the reporter asked aloud.

"And with good reason. This cave is collapsing!" yelled Nurse Joy, causing a panic.

"QUIET! CALM DOWN!" Brock shouted out.

"We need to move now! Let's get out of here!" continued the teen, leading a charge through the cave. Everyone obeyed and a mass exodus began with people fleeing at high speeds. Rocks fell to the floor and people and Pokemon were forced to dodge, but soon the cave was behind them. The rumbling however did not stop.

"The whole island is going to heck! Keep going guys!" yelled Ash. Trees began to fall by the wayside and cracks formed on the rocky ground beneath the group of fleeing humans and Pokemon. A large crack echoed in the distance and the land mass in front of the group split away, sinking into the ocean.

"It's no good. Turn back!" yelled Tracey. Before they could make any headway, another fissure occurred, breaking the island off at their backs as well.

"We're trapped!" cried the reporter.

"It's not over yet! Ash, Scyther would be a big help cutting down some trees. Utilize Venasaur to bind them together. Nurse Joy, I think Rhydon probably has the strength to carry those trees over to Venasaur so he can get to work. If we work together, we can still get out of this," urged Brock.

"On it Brock!" Ash acknowledged, sending Venasaur and Scyther out.

"Scyther, I know we still have issues to work out, but now is not the time! This island is sinking and we need a way off. Cut down some trees and do it now!" ordered Ash with a stern look. Scyther assessed the situation quickly, giving his trainer a nod and getting to work. Rhydon followed close behind, providing Venasaur with a growing supply of trees.

"Vensaur, I need you to use Vine Whip and bind these trees together into a raft," continued Ash.

"SAUR!" yelled the Pokemon, starting the process.

"Good work. Next, we're going to need all the large Water Pokemon we got," Brock continued.

"I have Lapras and Kingler," Ash offered.

"I have a Golduck," added Nurse Joy.

"Anyone else?" Brock asked.

"Um, I have a Vaporeon," the reporter offered.

"Send them all out and let's get them tied down," nodded Brock. Water was now starting to form at everyone's feet, so they acted fast. Four strong Water Pokemon were tied to a newly constructed raft, unnecessary Pokemon were called back, and they were ready to go.

"Sail us out of here!" yelled Brock. The water had now caused the raft to float, allowing the Water Pokemon to pull. Swimming through falling trees and other debris, the raft, Pokemon, and people just managed to escape the island as it was going down. Looking back, everyone could see a glimmer as the moon reflected its rays on thousands of Kabuto, who slowly sunk to the ocean depths with the island.

"The fossils must have been supporting the island," realized Nurse Joy.

"And now their job is done. They deserve peace. If any of this got out, poachers would be here, prowling the seas for Kabuto. This cannot spread!" the old man passionately declared, paying close attention to a certain reporter and her cameraman.

"But… fine. Go ahead George," the resigned woman said with a wave of her hand. A camera joined the island and Kabuto, sinking down to the ocean floor, hiding the secrets of the fossil Pokemon.

"I guess some things are better left unsaid. Then again, maybe not," Ash commented, nudging Brock to look down. Curled at the teen's feet was a lone little Kabuto asleep and content.

"What? How did this guy get here?" Brock wondered.

"I don't know Brock, but all his friends are gone. I think you should take him with you," Ash suggested.

"But, what about the others. People will find out," protested Brock.

"Nah. We can just say you found it at a dig sight somewhere in Kanto and had it restored. Others have done it before," shrugged Ash. Nobody else offered up any protestations either. Letting out a little laugh of joy, Brock pulled out a Pokeball and tapped it against the Pokemon at his feet. A ding shortly after signaled the capture of Brock's newest companion.

Brock had a new friend, Tracey experienced some more adventure, and Ash learned a little something himself. Perhaps, his dreams might just mean something after all.

END CHAPTER

I'm back people! Happy 2022! This chapter was a bit tough to get out with writer's block, but we got there. I know a few reviewers wanted the Crystal Onix to be caught, but I just never saw it happening or a use for the Pokemon. Also, I may have referenced a technique from a popular cartoon/anime in this chapter. Points to those who can call it out. Brock caught a new Pokemon in Kabuto! What's with Ash and these visions? Finally, I wonder if people caught the interesting little thing I did at the beginning of the chapter with the vision?

Next Time – Ash takes on his second Orange Island Gym Challenge, Misty's Pokemon Egg is born, and we may run into a Pokemon with a serious case of the munchies. Be warned that it is year-end, which in the world of accounting is the busiest time of the year (unless you work in public accounting), so it may be a week or two.

Guest44 – Thanks for the review! I have not decided on Ryhorn's ability yet. I will keep your suggestion in mind for the future.

Reader – Thanks for the review! It is good to see Serena and Misty moving forward. We will probably not see Serena for a while, but plenty of Misty will continue.

Reader2 – Thanks for the review! Serena's journey will not begin for another year per her conversation with her mom in the lab. Therefore, Johto is out of the picture. Also, you may be surprised yet with the direction her character will go. Let's say that Ash has rubbed off her a bit. As for Anabel, I agree that she is more of a blank slate, but there is a good base to work with at the very least.

Johnathan-Mandrake – Thanks for the review! I will specify when it occurs during the Orange Islands Saga. It will be pretty obvious, much like how I had the First Movie happen right after Cinnabar Island

Tyuo – Thanks for the review! Brock, as you saw in today's chapter, has experienced some growth. No worries, he will still have his moments of denial from time to time lol. As for your question, in the end he will succeed yes. Very tempted to ship him with someone unique instead of the default most people do, which is Lucy.

CaptainSammyAngel – Thanks for the review! Lucario and the Mystery of Mew will not be moved up, but the events have been slightly altered now due to Ash's interaction with Lucario. We are still ages away from that though and plans may be changed.

Vitosoares865 – Thanks for the review! Hope you liked this chapter as well.

Espeon860 – Thanks for the review! The cruise was a bit mixed, but fun overall. Glad to be back in the swing of things with work and writing though.

Remember to review with your thoughts and critique : )

Smell ya later!