Outside Pummelo Island Coliseum

"Still no sign of Champion Ash Red Ketchum, just one day after his triumphant victory over now Ex-Champion Drake. Rumors are circulating that the young man has returned home to Kanto, where in just one week, he and a few hundred other contestants will be competing in the Indigo League Conference! Rest assured good viewers, yours truly will be there live, covering the event, and tracking down the Orange Islands' newest Champion for an exclusive interview," beamed the woman.

"And we're clear," called the camera man, rolling his eyes as he did so.

"Excellent! Well, come along George. We have a flight to catch. I'm going to get that interview! No way am I letting that Johto Witch Mary get all the glory! She has plenty with all those interviews with Lance," scowled the woman. George muttered something inaudible under his breath.

"WHAT WAS THAT!" she screamed, spinning around and giving George the stink eye.

"Uh… I said you sure will!" sweat-dropped the man. Lucky for George, she simply gave a satisfied nod and continued on her way.

I wonder if Mary is hiring?

Cameron Palace - Kanto Region

Following their departure from Pummelo Island, And and friends had indeed made a quick pit stop at Valencia Island. Wanting to make things quick, Ash headed back to the lab on his own, leaving his friends and Lucario behind on the chopper. Sadly, Professor Ivy couldn't make heads or tails of the GS Ball. At the very least, she mentioned a specialist that might be able to offer Professor Oak some additional aid. A man named Kurt who lived in the Johto Region. In the meantime, Ash was returned the GS Ball to transport back to Kanto. For some reason, the mysterious Pokeball refused to properly interact with the normal Pokemon transport system. No matter. With his task complete, Ash swiftly ventured back to the aircraft, and the group continued their journey.

A day later and they found themselves stepping onto land once more. This time, it was in front of a sight like none had seen, well other than Lucario. North of Mt. Silver and north-west of Mt. Moon was the town of Rota and Cameron Palace. In ancient times past, Rota was an independent kingdom, governed by the ruler of Cameron Palace. Today, it was part of the Kanto Region, but the town retained many of the traditions laid down by their forefathers. As an example, local governance was still handled by the reigning monarch.

"Master?" Ash asked hesitantly. Lucario had been the first off the helicopter, walking to the edge of the bridge the group found themselves on. He gazed almost longingly at what looked to be a great tree in the distance.

"Master?" Lucario shook himself away at the repeated call, gazing back at his apprentice with a forced smile.

"Forgive me. I've been away from home for months now and was simply caught up in old memories. Welcome Apprentice, and friends, to the Kingdom of Rota. Across this bridge is Cameron Palace. Her Majesty, Queen Ilene reigns supreme. It is to her that you will renew your pledge of fealty as you rise to the station of Aura Knight," explained Lucario, beginning to walk down the bridge. The others followed, but Ash wasn't ready to let the issue drop. Not anymore.

"Master, you once told me that I could come to you with anything. I'd be happy to do the—"

"That's unnecessary," coldly cutoff the Aura Pokemon, not looking back.

"Somebody's in a good mood," muttered Misty, earning an elbow from Brock. Lucario didn't react, opting to pretend like he heard nothing. It was an awkward silence that filled the rest of their journey down the bridge, so Ash opted to take in his surroundings instead. The bridge he and his friends found himself on connected the town of Rota to the actual palace, which lied in the middle of a vast lake. The palace itself was constructed entirely of stone, featuring many tall towers with red rooftops. Surrounding the palace was a forest of trees. Finally, Ash could swear he saw what looked like a small Pokemon Stadium attached to the side. Passing through an iron gate, Lucario's cool demeanor seemed to ease away, and he began speaking once more as he led the group through a courtyard.

"We will soon find ourselves inside the palace. Nobody is to touch anything, or go anywhere, without supervision! In addition, you are to treat the lady Ilene with the utmost respect. Am I understood?" A chorus of yes, Pika, and a telepathic sure thing was the answers he received, much to his satisfaction.

"Good. Ah, lady Jenny. A pleasant surprise," Lucario spoke, addressing an older woman, clearly dressed as a maid.

"Aura Guardian Lucario! You have returned to us," she curtsied back.

"Indeed. Might I ask you to escort these humans to a balcony. My apprentice needs regalia more befitting for the ceremony he is about to undertake," Lucario gestured to Brock and Misty.

"What's wrong with my clothing?" complained Ash. He shut up at once when Lucario sent a glare his way, prompting Jenny to chuckle.

"I see you've trained this one well. Very well. Follow me dears and keep close." With that, Brock and Misty departed, leaving Ash and his Pokemon alone to follow Lucario once more.

"Come along Apprentice, and try not to be so disrespectful in front of her highness," sighed Lucario.

"I wasn't being disrespectful," grumbled Ash, obediently keeping pace with his master. Before he knew it, Ash was in yet another interesting place.

"Looks like a full blown costume room," Ash commented, staring at various articles clothing that all looked like they belonged in a museum.

"I think they look neat," chirped Espeon, admiring a dress. Lucario coughed loudly, catching everyone's attention.

"Regardless of your personal thoughts on the matter, this is all traditional attire that one is expected to wear when attending court."

"Court?" Lucario sighed again, resisting the impulse to slam his forehead against a stone wall.

"When in the presence of her majesty," clarified the Pokemon, walking into the isle of clothing to retrieve something.

"Could have just said that," muttered Ash. Lucario returned in a near instant, holding onto something that made Ash's eyes light up.

"I see you can appreciate some of the finer things after all," noted Lucario with a slight smirk, handing over the "costume" to Ash.

"It's all right," shrugged Ash, obviously impressed but trying to be cool about it. The garments were largely blue mixed with some grey. It was complete with blue boots, a blue cape, and a blue fedora. With a wave of his hands, Lucario shooed Ash away to a dressing room and the boy swiftly changed.

"How do I look?" Ash asked, striking up a pose.

"Pika!"

"Very dashing," piped up Esepon. Lucario simply stared.

"Earth to Lucario. You're staring off into space again master," Ash said with notable concern.

"Right… you look adequate. The garments you wear were last worn by the legendary Sir Aaron, last true human Aura Guardian, and a hero to the people of Rota. Wear it with pride," quietly ordered Lucario. Before Ash could respond, he was talking on another tangent yet again.

"You are now ready to meet Queen Ilene. When we arrive in the throne room, you would do best to follow my lead. Espeon and Pikachu, you may accompany us, but neither of you are to speak. When questioned apprentice, simply respond with I do. Stick to these instructions, and you will do fine. Are you prepared?"

"I am," seriously nodded Ash, dropping the matter again. His master was as stubborn as he was, if not more.

"Then it's time. Follow me." Once again, Ash trailed behind Lucario, traveling through the winding paths of the palace. This time, the duo stopped in front of an archway, blocked by a pristine green curtain. An elderly gentlemen, dressed in the attire of a castle servant stood at the ready, acknowledging their presence. The man gave Lucario a nod and he turned to walk through the curtain.

"Announcing the return of Sir Lucario, respected Aura Guardian of Rota. Accompanying him is his apprentice, Ash Red Ketchum of Pallet Town." Lucario strode ahead through the fabric, subtly jolting his head forward as he did so. Ash got the message, swallowed his nerves, and pushed through himself, his Pokemon keeping pace.

The throne room was filled to the brim with varying shades of red, a common theme Ash was beginning to notice. The other prominent color was gold, appropriate for royalty. Golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling, red pillars with gold bases stood at the side, and a gold and red symbol hung at the very back of the room. His friends looked over him from a balcony on the right. Ash's focus though turned forward, the direction his master continued to walk. At the very back, up two sets of small stairs, was a throne. A beautiful woman with long flowing blonde hair, a gold crown with emerald jewelry, and a purple gown, sat upon it. She sat their regally, holding a scepter, and smiling down on the approaching pair. From what Ash could see, the scepter's base was wood, while the forehead appeared to be iron. What was curious was the crystal like gem the iron seemed to surround. Ash couldn't think more on it as his master finally knelt before the first staircase and he quickly imitated him.

"Welcome home Sir Lucario."

"It is an honor to be welcomed by her majesty," answered Lucario, head still bent.

"You are not alone?" she commented, her eyes flickering to Ash's for a brief moment.

"No milady. Beside me kneels my apprentice, Ash Red Ketchum of Pallet Town."

"I have heard of him, along with the rest of the world of course," chuckled the lady. Her demeanor shifted, turning to a more rehearsed set of features.

"For what purpose have you brought your apprentice before me Aura Guardian?" Lucario looked up, meeting Queen Ilene's eyes.

"I have taught the one who stands before you, journeyed with him, and fought against evil at his side. I deem him worthy of the the title Aura Knight, and beseech your grace to grant him the honor."

"You swear this to be true?"

"I do! I swear it on my honor, and on the honor of my master."

"So be it. Ash Red Ketchum of Pallet Town, do you renew your pledge of fealty, vowing to serve myself, my descendants, and the people of Rota in our hour of need?"

"I do."

"Do you promise to uphold the sacred traditions passed down to you by your master, and to keep them guarded, never leaving your lips to one outside the order?"

"I do."

"Do you vow to continue your training, absent your master, and to pass what you have learned on to another?" Ash froze when it hit him.

Lucario's leaving. Just like Misty… Ash looked to his master, but Lucario refused to share his gaze, simply keeping his own eyes on the queen. Speaking of…

"I'm waiting Mr. Ketchum."

"I do," whispered Ash, looking up at the queen again. The queen rose, walking down the double set of stairs and coming to rest before the kneeling Ash, the staff still in her hands

"Your master has deemed you fit be an Aura Knight of Rota, you have renewed your pledge of fealty, you have sworn to uphold the traditions of the order, you have sworn to continue your training, and you have sworn to pass down what you have learned. I see no reason to deny your ascension." Taking the staff, she gently pressed it against Ash's left shoulder, his right shoulder, and then his left once more.

"I dub thee Sir Ash Red Ketchum, Aura Knight of the Kingdom of Rota. Arise Sir Ash as a full member of the order of Aura." It was done. Ash stood proud, albeit conflicted from what he had learned. His face showed none of that though, maintaining respect for the queen before him.

"Go forth Sir Ash and live a life befitting of an Aura Knight. Should we have need of your aid, you will be called." Ash felt a tapping on his shoulder, and he noticed Lucario gesture to follow him back from whence they came. Giving the queen a final bow, Ash turned away.

"And Sir Ash," called the queen as the boy walked.

"Yes your majesty?"

"Best of luck in the Indigo League Conference. I have great faith in you," genuinely smiled the monarch. Ash returned it, bowing once more, and then he left. Lucario escorted him back to the costume room. Neither he, his Pokemon, or Lucario spoke. Ash changed quickly, back in his usual outfit with the ceremonial clothes returned to where they had come from.

"Apprentice…"

"Don't!"

"Please, let me speak," urged Lucario. Ash sighed, walking to a window, seeing his friends waiting for him down in the courtyard.

"Then speak."

"Teaching you, traveling with you, getting to know you, and fighting with you, has been an honor. I-I wish I could stay be your side. Truly! But, I have sworn my own vows that must be upheld. Our time together is at an end. My duty is to serve Rota."

"I get it. After Misty, well I understand. It would be selfish of me to keep everyone from doing what they have to do. I just wish we had more time," Ash sadly smiled, turning back to his master.

"I told you before apprentice. A parting need not be forever. How long it lasts is up to you. We will meet again. I know it."

"Yeah! We will!" fist pumped Ash, cheering up.

"Before you go, I have something for you. Wait here," mysteriously asked Lucario, disappearing from view. He soon returned carrying a container. It was a container that Ash had seen before. A Pokemon that stood by his side once rested in a similar container, or rather what was inside the container. It was a Pokemon Egg. The egg itself was gold with blue patterns appearing as spots throughout it.

"A Pokemon Egg," breathed Ash.

"Yes. I gift to you a new companion, friend, and your future student," responded Lucario, handing the egg over. The duo began to walk once more, heading towards the courtyard

"Student?" Ash blurted.

"I believe part of your renewed vow was to pass what you had learned down correct?" smirked Lucario with a knowing look.

"Technically, but do you really think I can be a good teacher?" Ash asked with concern.

"I have no doubt of it! You will make a fine instructor Ash. Know this. To teach is both rewarding and something that can inspire growth within yourself. I know I learned quite a bit as your teacher," reassured Lucario.

"Then I'll do it! This little guy will be an Aura Knight before you know it!" vowed Ash.

"Good. You may return with your apprentice when you deem him or her ready. When that may be is entirely up to you." Ash nodded, but his jovial expression soon faded when he saw his friends, signaling the end of the line.

"Guess this is it?" Ash said, sticking a free hand out towards Lucario. The Pokemon took it, giving his apprentice a fair shake, but Ash being Ash was not satisfied pulling his master into a full blown hug.

"Take care master!" urged the boy.

"You too apprentice," muttered the Pokemon. The two separated, and Ash walked away, refusing to look back. For now, it was goodbye.

Cameron Palace Courtyard - 15 Minutes Later

From the courtyard, Lucario watched his apprentice disappear from view, flying home to Pallet Town in the helicopter with his friends.

"Did you tell him?" asked the Queen, walking to stand next to the Aura Guardian.

"No. My apprentice is unaware of his lineage."

"Why?" The question wasn't presented with judgement, but rather simple curiosity.

"I didn't see a reason to tell him. It makes no difference."

"I'm not sure even you believe that Lucario, but the choice is yours," frowned the Queen, heading back from whence she had came. Lucario stayed behind, still staring off where his apprentice had vanished. Former apprentice he supposed.

I wish I could stay at your side Ash. I meant what I said. Teaching you gave me purpose. It made me experience a happiness I hadn't felt for some time. Not since my time with my own master, all those years ago. I wonder? Would you be proud of me? Would you be proud of your descendant? What would you do Sir Aaron?

Pallet Town - Evening

Ash and his friends arrived back to Pallet Town in the evening, touching down right in front of his home. Entering the homestead, he was happy to find his mother, cooking a welcome home meal for him and his friends. He was surprised to see a Mr. Mime helping her, but he was sure there was a story behind that. Brock had offered his own aid in the cooking department, and was swiftly rebuked, by Mr. Mime, much to the amusement of Ash and Misty. Exhausted from their travels, they gang enjoyed the home cooked meal and headed off to bed. Brock bunked with Ash while Misty took the guest bedroom. For himself, Ash planned on sleeping in for once. When he woke up, he and his Pokemon would have just a few more days of training until the big event, but for tonight, he figured they could take it easy. That in mind, Ash, Pikachu, Espeon, and his Pokemon Egg, cuddled up for a good night's rest.

The Next Day

It was bright out when Ash's eyes began to flutter. No doubt the Dodrio has long since crowed, signaling the start of a new day. Getting up to stretch, Ash looked around. His Pokemon seemed to be napping still and his egg was in fine condition.

"Brock?" Ash asked, looking around with more scrutiny now. The teenager was nowhere to be seen.

"Must already be up. Maybe he wanted to try and wake up early to beat Mr. Mime to the kitchen," chuckled the boy to himself. Standing up, Ash exited his room and headed to the guest room. He stopped himself from opening it at the last second, figuring it would probably be better if he knocked first.

"You awake and decent in their Misty?" No response.

"Misty?" Ash tried again, knocking louder. Still nothing. Finally, Ash simply pushed the door open. He found a clearly made bed, but no sign of Misty. Ash was starting to worry now. Both of his friends were missing. If they were missing, then what about…

"Mom?" yelled the boy, running downstairs. Nobody answered and his mom's room was empty as well. Ash was about to completely lose it, but a piece of paper on the kitchen table, next to a stack of pancakes, caught his eyes. Walking towards the table, Ash picked it up.

Hey Ashy,

Your friends were up bright and early and wanted a tour of Professor Oak's Pokemon Ranch. I've been meaning to visit the good professor myself, so I volunteered to take them over. I left some pancakes for you to eat. After breakfast, stop on bye. Love you!

Mom

"Could have woken me up too," grumbled Ash. Whatever. What's done is done. Ash tucked in, scarfing down the pile of pancakes in record time. After that, he headed back upstairs to finally wake his Pokemon up and to grab his egg. They too were fed and watered, and the group exited the house, outside to another bright and sunny day in Pallet Town.

"Nothing like the fresh air of Pallet," Ash sighed in contentment, beginning to walk towards the lab.

"Your home town is really pretty," praised Espeon, enjoying the sight of the wide open spaces.

"Thanks Princess," chuckled Ash, ruffling the Pokemon's head.

"Pika. Pikachu!"

"Yeah I noticed. Nobody seems to be around. Wonder what's up with that? Must be a coincidence?" shrugged the boy. Crossing the familiar bridge over the stream of water, Ash came face to face with the sight of Professor Oak's Lab.

"Windmill still seems to be going strong," absently commented Ash, noting the energy giving device. Passing through the metal gate, Ash walked up the stone steps and into the building.

"Hello?" called the boy. Like earlier, nobody answered.

"Just where is everyone?" frowned Ash.

"Daddy, I can sense a great deal of people outside in the back," chirped up Espeon. Ash breathed in deeply, casting out his Aura senses like he had been taught.

"I feel it too. Good call." Being cautious, Ash and his Pokemon slowly approached the back door and opened it to find…

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASH!"

"Whaaaaat?" face-faulted Ash, quickly getting back up. The entire town town stood in the backyard of Professor Oak's Pokemon Ranch, holding banners, party hats, and all sorts of festive items. Plenty of familiar faces were there too. His mom, friends, Professor Oak, and his Pokemon were all near the front for one, but more surprises were to come.

"Looking good there partner. It's been a while Ash," spoke a familiar spiky green-haired boy with a country accent.

"AJ!"

"Hey Ash! How you been?" called yet another voice. This one belonged to a boy dressed similarly to Ash, down to the Pikachu on his shoulder.

"Ritchie!"

"I do love a good party. It's been far too long since I've socialized. Happy Birthday chap!"

"Bill!"

"I did not expect to see you so soon again Ash Red Ketchum, but it seems fate had other plans," mysteriously spoke the commanding presence of Saffron's Gym Leader.

"Sabrina?"

"It's good to see again young man. I'm happy to be here to celebrate with you on this special day," smiled an old man.

"Mr. Fuji!"

"Breon!"

"Hey Ash! You and Espeon are looking great!" an excited young boy spoke next to his Umbreon.

"Mikey and Umbreon too!"

"When first I appear I seem mysterious, but when explained I'm nothing serious," spoke a hippy-like man.

"Blaine…"

"What are you guys doing here?" Ash finally asked, taking everything in,

"It's your birthday Ketchum. Think we wouldn't want to celebrate?" AJ asked.

"Brock and Misty told us all about it. Pallet Town is pretty close to the Indigo Plateau as it is, so it was no trouble stopping by," added Ritchie.

"Does that mean?"

"Heck yes! Sandslash and I went out and collected 8 Gym Badges!"

"Sparky and I were successful too," grinned Ritchie.

"That's great guys, and I'm glad you're here, but both of you are going down next week," smirked Ash. After the bravado and macho contest, Ash drifted away towards Professor Oak and his mom. Blaine and Bill were also amongst this little sub group.

"My little angel! 11 years old! Happy Birthday Ashy!" beamed Delia, crushing Ash in a hug.

"MOM!" cried the thoroughly embarrassed boy, red tinting his face.

"You've done quite a bit of good for my research and the world at large as a 10 year old. I look forward to seeing what you do next at the age of 11," smiled Professor Oak. Ash rubbed his head sheepishly, not sure how to respond.

"And it seems that Eevee egg hatched after all. You've done a fine job raising her into a beautiful Espeon Ash," praised Bill.

"Thanks Bill. Princess here is one of kind!"

"Aww you're making me blush," preened Espeon.

"It seems you have acquired yet another egg, and one I am not immediately familiar with," noted the man.

"I think I have an idea, but I'll let it be a surprise for you this time," winked Ash.

"Praise be to Arceus! The kid is adopting riddles. I'm so proud," fake sobbed Blaine.

"What are you even doing here?" wondered Ash.

"I was invited… and I've done some work with Bill and Professor Oak here in the past. Thought it would be a good chance to catch up with some old friends. Now go on and talk with the other youngsters," shooed the man. Ash was about to leave, but the proverbial lightbulb went off in his head first.

"Oh! Professor Oak, take this. It's the GS Ball," Ash said, grabbing the ball from his backpack and handing it over.

"You have my thanks for taking care of it Ash. Now, take Blaine's advice and go have some fun." The next unusual trio Ash came across was Mikey, Mr. Fuji, and Sabrina of all people.

"Hey guys! Thanks for coming," Ash said, sliding in.

"Are you kidding? This place is amazing! So many cool Pokemon! I wish my brothers could have come. Oh, and Happy Birthday Ash," babbled Mikey with a grin.

"Glad you like it Mikey. You and Umbreon still doing good?"

"Yup! We're gonna go on a journey in a year or two. Just like you!"

"Inspiring as always Ash. It's good to see you've born fruit on your journey," said Mr. Fuji.

"I appreciate it sir. How are things in Lavender Town?"

"Calm and peaceful. Just the way we like it," sighed the man in contentment. Then Ash turned to Sabrina, who had of course been staring at him with her piercing eyes.

"Uh… so what brings you here Sabrina?" awkwardly asked the boy.

"My father said I should get out more, and I did receive an invitation. Moreover, I have something for you," bluntly answered the older teen.

"You do?" Ash asked, intrigued. Sabrina pulled out a lavender card, handing it to Ash.

"It's from a former student of mine. You wouldn't have met her, but like many others, you've made quite the impression. Now she's on her own journey. Oh, and that's quite the Espeon you have. You might be interested to know she has one too," finished Sabrina, wandering off before Ash could respond.

"Weird," Ash mumbled to himself, tucking the card away for later. There were two people he needed to see. They owed him an explanation after all. Ash found them by a pond, with Misty eying the Water Pokemon of course.

"So, a surprise party huh?" Ash spoke with his arms crossed.

"Oh come on Ash. We've seen you making the rounds and having fun catching up. Don't pretend like you're offended," snarked Misty. Ash's lip twitched.

"Thanks guys. It means a lot."

"Anytime Ash. You only get to celebrate your 11th birthday once. We reached out to a whole bunch of other people, but unfortunately not everyone could make it," Brock sighed.

"He wanted to invite Suzie, but I shut him down," interjected Misty.

"Anyway, I do have this for you from a very special friend," Brock winked, handing a yellow card over to Ash.

"Who is this from then?" wondered Ash, studying the card.

"A certain girl who happens to be your friend. You last saw her at a tournament near Fuchsia City," jibed Misty.

"Serena!" exclaimed Ash with a smile. He would definitely look through this later. The party went on for a few hours, Ash talking to each of his guests and spending plenty of time with all of his Pokemon. Honestly, it was one of the best days of his life. After lunch, a combined special put together by Brock, his Mom, and Mr. Mime, a call went out for a speech. It was directed at Ash. Some good natured jostling from his friends forced him up to address the calls.

"Hey guys. I want to thank you all for making your way out to Pallet Town to celebrate with me for my 11th birthday. Seeing all these faces from every corner of Kanto, well it's pretty inspiring. Each of you has helped to make this past year special. I've grown as a person because of you and I've met loads of cool Pokemon. I promise to take everything you've taught me, everything I've learned, and all of my experiences with me as I prepare to compete in the Indigo League. I hope I can make you proud. I— you guys are the best!" finished Ash, tearing up a bit at the end. His speech was met with a burst of applause.

Oddly enough, one person didn't stop clapping. His clap was of the slow and sarcastic variety though. All eyes were drawn to him, including Ash's.

"Gary…"

END CHAPTER

Another one bites the dust! Today's chapter transitioned us from the Orange Islands back to Kanto where the Indigo League is about to get under way. Sadly, Lucario departs the gang. Ash actually ages! Hope you liked that. I tried to include as many people Ash had met from Kanto as possible in the party. Also, I wonder what Pokemon is in the egg Ash received?

Next Time - Gary speak, Ash finds out what Serena and Sabrina's student wrote to him, Ash gets last minute training in, and we make our way to the Indigo Plateau!

Nasapeepolover116 - Thanks for the reviews! Glad you are liking the story. I have mentioned this before, but Ash will be getting 1 legendary Pokemon on his adventures. The identity of that Pokemon is my little secret. Take your best guess though.

RFK22 - Thanks for the review! I always enjoy a good binge read myself, so glad you caught up. Feel free to leave critique and ideas in your reviews. Plenty of people have made this story better doing so and I try to credit them by name when they do.

TalesfanJmf - Thanks for the review! Glad you liked the battle and Dragonite. Poor Lapras indeed. Maybe she will find redemption in the Pokemon League?

Espeon860 - Thanks for the review! Lapras' family was hinted at earlier on in the Orange Island Arc. If you've seen the anime, and I know you have, then you will know this is not the only time Ash runs into them. Good call on the Gary cameo. It was between that and Misty challenging Ash to a battle. I went with Gary. I may have to check out that Youtube series.

Reader - Thanks for the review! Mandi is going to be fun. Ash won't face the same opponents in every battle from cannon, but I can't write Mandi out lol.

Tyuo - Thanks for the review! Glad you liked the battle. Drake is probably a step up from your average Gym Leader, but he is nowhere near the Elite Four. Only Dragonite is on their power level.

Remember tor review with your thoughts and critique : )

Smell ya later!