Welcome everyone to the 24th cahpter of this fic!

Again, I'm so sorry it took a while to update... I was very busy so it took me a while to write it... ALso if I were you I would expect the next chapter to come in about 2 or 3 weeks, becaus I have the first exams' period of the semester (and I have to concentrate on them, I hope you understand).

TIME WITH REVIEWS will be at the end of the chapter... If you don't want spoilers, read the chapter first and then read my reply. This chapter is one of the most important ones so read it cautiously. Some of the shortest sentences will play the most important parts of the story.

As for now I don't have anything else to say... SO I pass the word to my editor.

LexClone5: (sitting down with a bowl of soup) I have absolutely nothing to say, so get out of my house.

DISCLAIMER: We do not own pokemon, or Adventures/Special (depending on your preference), or BLECH, the Potato Knight...

LC5: DAMN IT CLONES, QUIT SCREWING WITH MY CUE CARDS!

READ and ENJOY!


Chapter 24: A story to comfort

Blue's POV

I woke up at the sound on my alarm clock again. After the events of the previous day, I realized that I still had to go to the Academy to start the first day after the exam's period. I lazily stood up before recalling all the events that took place from that Friday to this right time…

I went out of my room to check out on Sapphire, but what I found surprised me… She wasn't there. I panicked a little and I went to search for her inside the house. I looked at the bathroom, kitchen, her room again, but I didn't find her. Just then an empty plate on top of the table with a note attached to it got my attention. The plate was the one I had left the night before and, as expected, it was completely empty. Then I read the note.

"I left before you woke up. I'm ok, but I won't be going to the Academy today… Tell Emerald for me. Sorry if I made you worry.

-Sapphire."

I sighed then. I remembered those times when we didn't see her for 3 or 4 days. This happened mostly in the first years in the Academy. After her first birthday party she spent 4 days inside her apartment without going out or even answering our calls. She only came out when we contacted Prof. Birch and he came to see her. Being away from her father and mostly the still recent death of her friend, mentor, support (LC5: So Sapphire is an ADC, League of Legends joke), and crush had been too much for her to endure. This had happened after that four or five times, but she seemed to recover more quickly every time. I didn't want this to happen again, so I would tell the others when we would meet. Plus if what Green told us is true, we would have to look after her some more.

27th of October (9:45 pm)

The eight Dexholders were having our dinner after me and Crystal brought Sapphire to her bedroom. The dinner had been quite silent at the moment. Everyone was tired and the emotions during the day had clearly taken a toll out of everyone. When we were almost finished Green spoke for the first time of the night.

-I have something important to discuss guys- he said- I have a fear, and I want to see if it's just me and the person who induced this fear to me or if anyone has the same feeling as us.

-What is it?- asked Crystal- And who induced that fear to you?

-The person was Rub…- he said- Do you all remember on Friday when we were having lunch after the fight at his apartment, don't you?

-Yeah, when we talked about Sapph's apartment and where Sapphire would sleep from then on- said Emerald.

-Yeah, that one- Green continued- but that's not the issue I want to talk you about.

-Was when he said that he admired us, isn't it?-said Gold- I always had thought that he wouldn't care that much…

-I didn't either, but you're wrong again- Green then said- Silver, you remember the question he asked us, am I right?

-I believe that you mean when he asked if any organization had ever focused in one of us more than the others- Silver said.

-I remember Rub asking that- said Yellow- Do you believe he is right?

-Yeah- Green said- sadly I have a hunch that he is right.

-I assume you also have a hunch on who this ones are focused- Red said- Who is it?

-Sapphire- Green answered- I believe it's her.

-Why?- asked Emerald- It's not like she is the best battler. Maybe she is better than me, but Red and you are stronger than her… And she is not related to the "head" of this organization, like Silver was, I suppose.

-You're right, Emerald- said Silver- but there could be plenty of reasons for her being the main target.

-So you believe that too?- asked Emerald surprised.

-Yeah- answered Silver- I do.

-Why?- asked Gold- If you are saying such an important thing, you have to have some proof.

-When Rub said that, he was looking directly at her- said Green-And I don't think this is a coincidence.

-It kinda makes sense…- I said then- If we think about the times where we battled them it makes sense.

-What happened in them that makes you say that?- asked Red- I wasn't by her side the two last times… The first one I was caught in the flying ambush, and the second I was in charge about the fire along with you Blue… Remind me to talk about something that happened today relating that when we're done please.

-Sure- said Yellow curiosity filling her voice.

-So back to the topic… this is what happened- said Silver- The first time Blue, Sapphire, Crystal and I were separated from the rest of you. You fought that ambush while we fought against 10 people. We already explained to you that battle, so you know that while we were battling 2 grunts each Sapphire was holding her own against four of them.

-Yeah, you already told us that…-said Yellow- You believe that's a proof?

-There's more to it than that…- said Green after nodding to her- Remember all the battles against them we've had until now… Think about it and tell me who's the only one of us who has batted against every single one of the executives…

We all thought a little, but there wasn't much to think about. The answer was clear: Sapphire. Last Friday after the ambushes, when she fought those two and today too. Her house had also been destroyed by them.

-Sapphire…- I sighed- and we have to take into account that her apartment was destroyed by them too.

-Another clue that led me to my conclusion- said Green- And what made it even clearer to me was while Emerald, Crystal, and Gold went to help you guys, the executive grunts never chased you. They stuck fighting the four of us.

-So assuming that this is true, which I really hope it isn't- said Emerald- what do we do?

-We have to keep an eye on her- said Crystal-until we talk with the Pokemon Association at least.

-Okay, Blue since she's living with you…- said my boyfriend.

-Yeah, don't worry- I said.

We all kept silent for a little while. I assume that everyone was thinking about Sapphire and her situation. She sure is not the luckiest girl I know… She's one of the sweetest people I have ever met and one of the most caring too, so why did all the bad things were always directed to her. She didn't deserve it. It was always her or someone who she cared a lot for that ended suffering for the ideas of some crazy organization that only seeks power and dominance. Finally Red broke the silence.

-Now that this is settled…- said Red then- I have a thing to discuss with you.

-What thing Red?- said Yellow curiously.

-I don't know what happened today there, but the people we saved were acting really weird…- he said.

-Weird?- asked Gold- They were fans of course they were acting weird…

-Not that kind of weird Gold… They were acting like I had saved them all, like I had been in there with them and guided them out- he said- People kept telling me that if it wasn't for my speech they would be dead, or that my plan came out perfectly. Even when I brought Rub to the hospital, they stopped and thanked me just like the kids back there where we found Rub. It's really weird.

-Did you go inside?- asked a very worried Yellow.

-No, of course not…- Red said looking at her- How could I? All the entrances and exits were blocked and the furthest I was able to enter was to the bathrooms to take injured people out.

And I never did a plan or a speech. I'm so confused right now.

Just then the last words of the judge that got out of the building and who explained to me everything that was happening in there came to my mind.

-I know why- I said then surprising them all- I know why they think that.

-Then explain…- said Red- I want to know the reason.

-That judge we found explained that someone had talked through the speakers and that he told everyone to go and gather around the bathrooms. It was the best option, because it's the only room with water. He said that it was you who did it.

-But I never said that- said Red.

-I know… he also said that you helped him to get out safely and to tell us where the people were- I explained to them.

-That means that someone spoke in your name Red- said Gold cheerfully.

-But I can't understand why they used your name Red…- said Emerald- that person could've helped as well using his name.

-We, as Dexholders, have a reputation Emerald…- explained Silver- We have helped bring down several organizations so they look up to us. Our name has power, and quite a lot for what we have seen… Someone said that he was Red to give the people hope and more chances to survive.

-This time we are not the heroes in this situation…- said Yellow- this person is the real hero.

-Yes he is… But that's a thing to worry about. We need to be careful- said Crystal bringing some common sense to the conversation, as usual- If our names have such effect on people, just think about the things someone could do if they had wrong intentions… unlike that person.

-Crystal's right- said Green- we have to be more careful from now on… but there's really nothing much we can do about it right now…

-We could tell the Association- said Red- they could have a good idea for once… But I highly doubt it.

-Just another thing before we head to our homes- said Green- You see the grunts burned the pokeballs that hold mine, Silver's and Yellow's pokemon. Right now some of them are trapped inside and the ones outside at in our homes. What do we do about that?

-Just give them to me- said Emerald- I know how to open them without harming the pokemon inside. You will have to catch them with a new one because that one will be useless from now one.

-That's not a problem- said Yellow.

-How much time do you need for that?- asked Silver.

-I'll do it tomorrow after school- said the shortest one of us- by dinner time it will be done.

-Thanks…- said Green to him- I'll go buy the pokeballs then. Do you think that the Association will pay for them? Not very likely is it?

-We can always try asking them when we go talk to them…-said Crystal yawning-Well I'm going home, tomorrow school is getting back to normal again- she added before Gold only fell down after hearing that making all of us smile. Normally a huge roar of laughter would've happened, but today… the mood wasn't that great.

That conversation had left me with more doubts than answers. Was Sapphire the target? Why her? I had no answer for them. I also didn't have a clear answer as to why she left. It was clear that she was upset, but… about what? I mean she's done a great job fighting those organizations and nobody could deny that. I then feared for her a little when I realized that she was alone wherever she was. She wanted to be alone, but could I allow it? I decided to ask the others' opinion when I see them in… Crap! 5 minutes!

I then had a quick breakfast and I ate my breakfast as fast as I could and I went out of the apartment. I saw them all gathered around at our usual meeting point in mornings. They waved to me when they spotted me, but I could see some surprise in their noticeably tired faces.

-Hi Blue!- said Crystal- Uhm… Where's Sapphire?

-She left the apartment before I woke up… She left me a note saying that she was alright, but that she wouldn't go to the Academy today- I explained- After the talk we had tonight… do you think that it's safe for her?

-I say that we leave her be for the moment- said Yellow- She's strong so nothing will happen with her. That's happened some times before, remember?

-Yeah, but if my worries are true, we shouldn't allow her to wonder all alone for a large amount of time- said Green- we'll leave her be until the classes end, and then we will ask her to come back.

-Seems like a good idea- said Red.

-That way she could talk to us about her problems, I don't like seeing her like that- said Emerald- She seemed so upset before she ran…

-You didn't even see anything about her being upset Emerald- said Silver seriously.

-What do you mean with that?- asked Emerald but he got no response when Yellow shook her head towards him.

Due to the conversation we were walking in silence. Gold was leading the group in front of Red and Yellow who were walking next to each other. Emerald was walking at Crystal's side while I was walking behind them. Then I heard Green and Silver talking behind us about something. Then an idea to cheer everyone up came to me.

-How about, after we finish our classes we go to see how's Rub doing in the hospital?- I asked them- He will be happy to see us there.

-That's a good idea actually…- said Gold.

-Actually? What is this supposed to mean Mr. I-need-Blue-to-defend-me-from-a-fan?- I asked him.

There was a moment of silence before I saw Crystal burst out laughing and the others following her. Gold flinched noticeably, but I saw him chuckling a little too. The tension that was built up a moment ago seemed to decrease a little.

It was clear that the events had caught to us a little because we haven't had a good laugh since the Contests started. We still had to hear the news about the issue and everyone was scared to know the number of people that were caught in the event. Not to say that we were sure that there were people that weren't able to come out alive from there…

-Well it's settled then, we'll go visit Rub after the classes- said Silver- but first we have something to deal with.

When he said that we all looked at the direction he was pointing at and we flinched at the sight. Just like that day after Sapphire's birthday, the entrance was packed full of fans, making a path in the middle of them. When one of them spotted us a huge roar could be heard. We looked towards each other and after sighing… we started to walk towards the crowd. This was going to be like hell.

Ruby's POV

I slowly began to open my eyes, but I closed them quickly due to all the light that was entering the room. I started to open them again, but all the sun was blinding me, and the white walls didn't really help. Wait... white? My room's not white. I opened my eyes quickly and I scanned my surroundings. White, everything was pure white. The bed, the wall, the ceiling, the wardrobe and even the little table near the bed where my bag and my hat were. I also noticed that I was wearing the same clothes as the night before, except for my jacket who was hung up in the wardrobe.

Just then I realized that I had a oxygen mask on my face. I looked at my arms in search of any tubes or needles, but I never found any. I took out my mask before looking at my PokeGear. It was 11:28 am. So I was on a hospital with a mask on my face and the last thing I remember is… telling Zuzu to use Dig when the three kids and I jumped inside the crack in the Contest's Hall. I was able to remember everything that happened before that so that convinced myself that I was okay. I quickly looked around to grab my hat, but then I saw a paper on top of the desk. I read it, but it only said the treatment the doctors gave to me and the things I had come with to this place. To sum up it said that I had arrived unconscious, with some burns and bruises in my arms and legs and after breathing smoke for a dangerous amount of time. The treatment was simple… they had put me an oxygen mask to help clean my lungs of the Carbon Monoxide and Dioxide and treated my wounds. Just when I finished reading it I heard a female voice from behind me…

-Feeling better I see…- said a young woman, probably in her early twenties, in a white coat- How long have you been up?

-For about ten minutes miss- I said politely.

-C'mon only because I'm the head doctor in this flat doesn't meant that I'm that old…- she said with a laugh then before getting back to business- Are you feeling better? Does it hurt anywhere?

-I don't think so- I said- How did I come here?

-Well it's understandable that you ask that, since you arrived unconscious- she said- You know? Not everyone has the honor of being carried to the hospital by one of the Dexholders… Red brought you and stayed with you until we had checked your body. He waited for us to finish while sitting outside the room. When we told him everything he thanked us and went home.

"So they were the ones that found me… Quite lucky, I am" I thought before she talked again.

-I must add that one of them came to see you before- she said- Also one of the Dexholders. You're quite lucky to know them. I would love that Sapphire came to visit me, I'm such a big fan of her! Well her and Gold, and Red, and every single one of them!

-Sapphire came?- I asked then scared for a moment.

-Yeah, but something was odd. After the nurse showed her your room she reached for the doorknob, but before touching it she stepped back- she explained- She lowered her head and after thanking the nurse she ran away from the hospital. The nurse said that she seemed very upset and at the verge of crying.

-Can I ask you what happened yesterday at the Contest's Hall?- I asked still confused about her behavior.

-Yeah, it seems that some organization attacked it. The news said that it was a new one, because it's the first time they attacked. They were dressed in blue and red clothes- she explained- The Dexholders were able to beat them while they also helped the people inside like you escape. All of the people who came here says that Red really saved them inside the building. They say that they would be all dead now if not for him.

-Yes, you could say that- I told her smiling weakly at the irony. I didn't mind it a little bit.

-So are you sure that nothing hurts you anymore?- she asked and I nodded in confirmation- Then I will allow you to go home now. Normally you wouldn't check out until tomorrow, but due to the incident yesterday we are almost full and we need every single room we have. You shouldn't go to the Academy until the day after tomorrow and I have to ask you to get a lot of rest for today and tomorrow.

-Okay…- I said- So that's everything? I can leave now?

-I'll have to sign you the check out first, but yeah you will be able to go in about ten minutes. Give me this paper and I'll return it after I sign it- she said pointing at the paper in my hand.

I gave it to her and she went out of the room leaving me alone again. I looked around for a bit before I put my hat on my head again. I again felt comfortable again. Such a simple piece of cloth and the amount of comfort it provided me… something hard to understand if you weren't in my shoes. I went to the bathroom and when I got back I just looked at my bag and I looked to see if there was anything missing in there. I found everything inside and I closed it then. Finally I put on my shoes and I waited for the doctor to come back. Five minutes after that she came back and gave me the same paper.

-All you have to do is to give this paper in the reception and they'll allow you to go- she said looking at me- You put your hat back I see… it quite impressive what you have under it, isn't it? Can I ask you how you got it?

-I'm not quite comfortable talking about it… and it's something in the past, so there's no point in thinking about it- I said to her- Can you keep it a secret? I don't want everyone to ask me about it.

-Sure… I was just curious- she said while we got out of the room walking next to me - So this said, be more careful and get a lot of rest. Like that you'll get better in no time.

-Thanks for everything- I said.

-It's our job- she said before entering into another room.

Like that I went to the reception of the hospital and gave them the check out. As I went outside the building I saw three kids that were quite familiar to me. One was a dark-blue haired girl, a blonde boy and a black haired guy who was eating a bag of crisps walking along with a white haired man. The black haired boy was wearing a red hat and below it I could see some bandages. His blonde friend was helping him to walk and the girl was walking by his side looking at him with some worry in her eyes. I walked past them when I heard them stop walking.

-Why did you stop Diamond?- asked the girl- Does it hurt?

-No it's just that…- he said- Never mind… I'm just imagining things.

-No you're not!- said the other who started to run towards me- this kid is Rub… the one who has won every contest.

Hearing that I turned to meet the 4 people coming towards me.

-Are you Rub?- asked the girl then and I nodded smiling towards them- Wow, I'm a fan of you! You're so young, but you do such incredible things.

-I don't do them actually… my pokmeon do them- I told her- I train them and I command them, but they are the true artists.

-It's true Platina- said the man who was going with them- The pokemon have to take some of the credit too.

-I'm sorry father… I'll take it into account from now on- she said smiling.

-Can we have your autograph?- asked the blonde guy surprising me.

-Why?- I asked them.

-You're the revolution in the contest hall and one of the bests we've ever seen even in the Master-ranks we've seen- said the girl politely- Can we?

-Of course- I said grabbing a pen from my bag and signing in one 3 sheets of paper they gave me.

-Wow, thank you!- said the blonde one.

-You're a good kid… I hope that you get much better- said the man shaking my hand- It's good to see that you don't let your wins go up your head.

-Thank you very much!- said the black haired guy- but…Can I ask you something? Did you get caught in there?

-Yes, but I'm fine- I said to him- I just have to get some rest… It was nice meeting you.

-Likewise… bye!- they said when I turned to head to my apartment.

I walked for two seconds and I could still hear them talking I smiled knowingly when I heard the injured one say that he wasn't talking about me being Rub when he said he was imagining things. This guy is very, very smart.

I arrived at my apartment 20 minutes after that after stopping to buy something quick for lunch. Following the doctor's orders I went to sleep right after taking a shower and feeding my pokemon, who clearly deserved a very great one, Zuzu was going to get a double ration... I spent three hour of short sleeps. I would wake up soon after I was able to close my eyes only to fall asleep again due to all the tiredness I was still suffering. I stopped doing that when I heard some loud knocks on the door of my apartment.

I lazily went to the front door and opened it, only to see 8 people waiting outside the door. I was surprised to see almost every Dexholder there.

-Hi Rub!- said Crystal.

-H-hi… c'mon come inside- I said quite awkwardly while letting them in.

-So how are you Rub?- asked Gold.

-I'm great. Tired, but okay- I answered- I've got some bruises and burns, but nothing much. How did you know I was here?

-We went to see you in the hospital, but they told us that they allowed you to go home- explained Blue- so we came here to see how you were doing.

-Well, thank you. I'm happy that you did that- I said.

-So how were you able to escape from there?- asked Red- You got us worried sick when we couldn't find you…

-I got lost and I couldn't find the bathrooms, like you asked us to do- I lied- Then the crack opened and I fell into it… and I can't remember anything from there.

-It wasn't me who spoke… I was never inside the building- mumbled Red.

-Are you sure that you're okay?- asked Yellow then.

-Yes, I'm sure…

-Did the doctors tell you to do something?- asked Silver- Or are you just ready to continue life like always?

-They told me to rest for today and tomorrow- I explained- I'll come to the Academy on Wednesday like she told me to do.

-Okay… we'll let you rest for now- said Crystal then.

-I've brought you everything that we did today at the classes- said Emerald handing me some papers- I was going to give them to Sapphire first, but… I know that you'll learn it faster- he ended with a chuckle.

-Speaking of that…- I began, this was bothering me since the beginning- Where is she? Shouldn't she be with you?

-She's not with us… she went out before I got up and left a note telling me not to worry- said Blue- I was hoping that she would've visited you and that you could tell us where she was.

-She visited me before I woke up. Or that was what she was going to do before she ran away before entering- I explained them- the doctor told me that.

-She is being acting very weird since when we found you- said Emerald- I hope she is okay.

-So you're telling me that she went out before Blue woke up and that nobody has seen her ever since…- I said- and that she's been acting weird since yesterday.

-Yeah, she was very upset- said Crystal- and worried. It's been a long time since the last time I saw her like that.

I then stood up. I went to my room and put on my jacket.

-I have something I have to do…- I told them- If I were you I would be doing whatever you feel like doing until it gets dark… If she hasn't returned by then, I would suggest that you go look for her.

-What are you going to do?- asked Crystal- the doctors said that you should rest…

-I've got to tell my father everything and send him some things- I lied again- but I have to go to the Pokemon centre to do it.

-Okay then…- said Green standing up- call us if you need anything.

-We're going then Rub- said Red- We'll have dinner at my house tomorrow. Feel free to come if you feel better.

-I will be there Red- I said when they all got out of the door- thanks for coming, it means a lot to me.

-No problem- said Green while the others nodded.

Then they went out and headed to their own apartments. I then went out myself after grabbing my bag and pokeballs. I looked at my left where the Pokemon centre was and then to my right where the forest was… I directly started walking towards the right one, before checking that they were far from sight.

Sapphire's POV (7 am.)

I jumped out of the way when I saw the cracks coming towards us. 4 Fissure attacks had been launched and they had fused in one single and enormous one. As we dodged it I saw the head grunt smirk and I looked behind me. I watched in horror as the magnificent building in flames broke in half. "Not again, please. Anything, but that…" I pleaded, but to no avail, because just after that the whole building crumbled down.

-Ruuuuub!

-Rub!- I gasped when I woke up almost jumping out of the bed.

I was breathing fast and heavily, my hands were sweating and shaking and some tears were falling from my eyes. I was scared out of my mind again, just like yesterday. The difference was that it seemed like forever since it was the 27th of October. So many things had happened until that morning I spent talking with Rub in his apartment. I had woken up roughly then… but now, it was worse. I looked at my hands which were still shaking. I tried to remember something else and go back to sleep, but my thoughts were focused in my red eyed friend that almost died only a few hours ago.

I decided to go to the bathroom to start the day early. When I entered there didn't even look at the mirror. I just couldn't. When I sat in the toilet I found myself crying again and only one thought crossed my mind. " I have to go and see if he's okay!". So after that I dressed up and went to the living room. I found a plate which I ate quickly, I wrote a note for Blue not to worry and I stormed out of the building walking slowly.

When I was far from the apartments I sent Pilo out and I commanded him to fly towards the place. From the sky I was very able to see a burnt building in the middle of a park. I could see some people talking to the officers and some journalists there too even though it was very early. The firefighters were using their pokemon to remove rumble, rocks and other things while the police officers were keeping everyone out of the place. After some seconds I looked away from there when the picture of the building falling invaded my head again.

After some minutes I arrived at the building. When I entered I saw quite a lot of activity there, a lot more that I had expected to see. Thinking about it, it made sense because there were a lot of injured people caught in the accident. And between them was the one I was looking for. I went directly towards the reception desk to ask for him.

-Excuse me- I said when I arrived there and I saw a nurse working on the computer.

-Yes, what it… Oh My Gosh!- she squealed when she lifted her head and saw me- Are you Sapphire? For real?

-Ye-yes I am- I said taken aback by her outburst- I just want to know something.

-What is it?- she asked standing up- Is there anything you need me to do?

-Wel… I'm just visiting a friend of mine who was caught in that incident- I said- I know it's not the proper time to visit anyone, but I thought I could ask.

-You're right, the visits should start around 10 o'clock, but since it's you there won't be a problem- she said- What's the name.

-H-his name is Rub- I said lowering my gaze in shame and my voice too- I believe that it was Red who brought him here.

-Yes, he was- she said- follow me, I'll bring you to his room. I have some things to do in the second floor too.

-Thank you very much- I said to her.

-Don't mention it… It's my pleasure- she answered when she came out from the desk and guided me to the room.

We walked towards the elevator in silence. I wasn't feeling well as while approaching his room I began to feel worse. The feeling was something I had felt long ago, but I couldn't just tell what it was. I was something deeper than just worry...

-Can I ask you why the change of look?- asked the nurse when we stepped in the elevator.

-Huh?- I asked at the sudden question.

-I mean the look change… We were used to see you always with your hair in that little tail- she said- and out of the blue you appear with a bandana around your hair. It suits you a lot, but it was unexpected. I've seen little girl wear more of them recently too. You are almost creating a style you know?

-I never thought of that actually- I answered taking it off from my hair and looking at the blue triangle in my hands- I got them as my birthday present form a friend.

-Is the same friend you came to see?- she asked- just guessing.

-Yes he is… he said that it would be more comfortable to battle wearing them- I explained with a small smile- and he was absolutely right.

-It's good to hear that although it's strange to know that a boy has some sense of fashion- she said giggling a little- Look it's the third door on the right. I was good being able to talk with you. I would ask for an autograph, but I already have four of them.

-Thanks for everything- I said a bit surprised at her confession as I headed towards his door.

I was looking at the piece of cloth in my hand while approaching the room and my mind began to wander towards him again. From the time I met him he had only been good with me… he gave me those presents, helped me study and so much more. Then I thought about what I had done for him and then it struck me… the feeling I was feeling. It was guilt. He had helped me so much since we met him and I couldn't help him when he needed it the most. I was about to grab the doorknob and open the door when reality struck me. "I failed again…!" I thought dropping my hand.

"I failed, I couldn't do anything". Was what I thought before turning around and storming out of the place. I ran through the corridor and downstairs. I ran as much as I could and then I went out of the building and I headed towards the forest, still running. "I failed, I failed, I failed" was the only thing I was able to think while running towards my place. When I arrived at the hill I was fully crying. I looked at the sight, but it didn't calm me as it normally did…

Then I looked back at the rock in the middle of it and I sat in front of it. I grabbed the piece of cloth still in my hands and I looked down the rock, not daring to look at the engraved name… I wasn't worthy to see him. "I'm a failure" was the last thing I thought before I started sobbing again.

Ruby's POV (present time)

I was walking slowly and reaching my final destination. I wasn't fully recovered from the previous day's events, but my rest could wait. I had something to do first. I was reaching the end of the Academy's property towards the place where I hoped to find some blue eyed girl. As I stepped outside the woods I knew that I had been right all along when I saw her sitting with her legs crossed in front of what was a gravestone with a name written on it…

"RUBY"

The sight of the name made me feel strange again, but I ignored it because I had more important things to do. I looked around a little amazed by the view. Just like they said it was magnificent, even better than when I saw it at night. Seeing that she hadn't noticed me I just walked towards her until I stopped two meters behind her.

-I don't care who you are, but you can't be here- she said when she noticed someone and turned to see who it was- so go awa… Rub?- she asked with a face of surprise before turning her head around and looking at her shoes again.

-What are you doing here?- I asked her.

I waited for her response, but after some seconds it became clear that she wouldn't answer the question so I tried another method.

-You know… you were right! The sight is even better than at night- I told her- I believe that a sunrise or a sunset from here, would be something extraordinary.

-It is…- she said- That's why we built it in here.

-It was a good idea- I said.

Then we fell silent again. I saw her tense a little when I took an step closer to her. Seeing that I took another one and she shifted nervously again… I then kneeled behind her and I put my hand on her shoulder. I tried to make her look at me, but I only took a second glimpse of her face before she got out of my grasp. I just saw it for a moment, but it was clear that she had been crying a lot. Her eyes showed great sadness and not even a little spark of that confidence I'm used to. I also noticed that she was holding the blue bandana between her hands.

-Why won't you look at me?- I asked in a mocking-hurt tone- I'm not that ugly, am I?

-It's no-not that- she said between sobs.

-Then what is it… why won't you look at me- I asked concerned.

-I- I can't do it- she said- I'm sorry.

-Why can't you?- I asked- Did I do something wrong?

-It's not that… the problem is me- she said then.

-Sapphire… look at me and tell me why are you saying that- I said grabbing her by both shoulders and turning her crying face towards me.

She looked at me then and kept looking for a little while. She blinked four times before looking away. I could see tears falling from her beautiful eyes. I moved my head to be face to face with her until she moved again. I did the same about three times. Finally she looked at the ground and said three words I had never expected to hear from her anymore.

-I'm a failure- she said- that's why I can't look at you.

-What?- I asked dumbfounded- How can you say that?

-Because I am- she said- I can't do anything good.

-That's not true- I said to her standing up- And you know it…

-It's true!- she said- I'm a total failure.

-No you're not- I said still confused with her behavior.

-YES, I, AM!- she yelled then surprising me more- Yes I am Rub… I wasn't able to help yesterday. Lots of people were hurt and some died, and I couldn't help them. You could be dead Rub…

-Well it's true that I could've died in there…- I said- but I'm okay. Only a few burns and bruises and some smoke in my lungs, but I'm okay.

-Yes you are… and I couldn't be happier about that- I heard her say.

-Then what's the matter?- I asked, concern feeling my voice.

-I broke a promise- she said still sobbing- one I swore to fulfill no matter what. But it doesn't matter because at the end I always am unable to help anyone.

-I don't understand- I told her.

-The day h-he died…- she said pointing to my name on the gravestone- I was unable to do nothing. I already told you… I was so scared that I felt paralyzed. I saw him pull me behind him and get attacked by a dragon claw. He fell down immediately, but he also stood up with blood falling from his wounds, trying to protect me. While he was doing that the Salamence threw him out of Pilo. He fell of Pilo, he died while protecting me, and all I could do was sit down horrified and paralyzed- she said crying gain- After that incident I made a self-promise. He had taught me to be strong so I was going to be strong… I promised to myself that I would never allow any harm to the people that are close to me and that I would make him feel proud of me. I vowed to protect them just like he protected me. I wanted to believe that I was strong enough keep that promise, but nothing's changed. I couldn't protect you, the only friend I had caught in the incident. And you nearly died in there.

-As I said… I'm okay- I told her- but let me tell you something. It's good to aim high with your goals, but there's no use in making promises that you can't keep.

-WHAT?

-That came out more harsh that how I wanted it to be- I said apologetically- What I meant is that nobody would be able to promise anything like that and be able to keep it. You won't always be there to protect them because, simply, you could be somewhere else!

-I saw the building crumble down while you were still inside Rub- she said- And I couldn't get you out as much as I wanted to… And when I arrived where Red was and told me that you hadn't come out I thought you had died, that another important person in my life was gone.

-I'm happy to know that I'm that important- I chuckled trying to make her feel better- but I don't like seeing you beating yourself up for no reason.

-No reason? I've told you my reasons…- she said looking at me again.

-I still think that there's no reason for you to feel so bad about yourself- I said confident, I had come up with the way to kill two birds with one stone. I was going to cheer her up and also I would introduce her to what she really was- Can I tell you an story?

-I'm not in the mood for stories- she said looking down again.

-Just hear it…- I told her- That way you will understand my point of view about it.

-I don't see any use in it- she said.

-C'mon just let me try…- I told her- Have I ever failed at cheering you up?

That seemed to do the trick because I saw her shifting her position a little before wiping some tears from her face. She looked at me with curiosity and then, not waiting for her to say anything more I started my short story.

-I don't really know how it started or who was the first- I started- but somewhere in the past appeared a special person, or two if we consider that there would be two of them each time.

-Special?- she asked and I nodded.

-They were two different people who had a gift by nature- I explained- Within time all this special people who discovered that they had this gift were feared, and adored by many. What made them special? Easy… they were powerful. Stories said that sometime those people became kings of feared kingdoms or famous commanders of great armies, but that's not the reason why they were powerful in the first place. The reason was another one.

-What one?- she asked curiously.

-Getting interested I see- I said chuckling when she looked away embarrassed- Don't worry I'll tell you. They were special, they had a gift and they were powerful because they had an special power. It's said that twice in every millennium two people would appear almost at the same time… They would both be special, they both would have one power, but that would be different. One of them would be able to control the earth. The other would be able to control the oceans.

-What?- she asked in disbelief.

-They weren't able to control those things itself- I added- The story says that they were able to control one monster each. One monster was the monster of the earth, a monster that could create volcanoes and earthquakes just stomping on the ground. The other was the monster that lived under the seas… controlling the tides, the flows of the oceans and with the ability to create whirlpools and tsunamis alike. The powerful monsters could not be controlled by anyone, but those who had the gift to do so, the ones named as "The controllers".

-Wow…- she said- but I don't understand what that story relates to what you said earlier.

-Just let me ask you a question- I said- Let's say that you now discover that you have a power and that you can use it whenever you want to… What would you do with it?

-I don't know…- she said taken aback by the question- I would like to try and help people with it, I suppose. What are you laughing at?

-I'm sorry… I just expected this answer- I said- You say that you would try to help people with it. Do you want to know what the ones who had the power really did with it?- she nodded-If you believe what the stories say they used it to gain more power… They commanded great armies and won wars seeking domination and power.

-You don't think this story is real, do you?- she asked me- it seems like a legend or a fairy tale to me.

-I know… but it's not important right now- I said- what's important right now is that you're always thinking about other before yourself, you would use it to help people.

-Of course! I'm a Dexholder, it's my job to help people- she said.

-No it's not- I told her then- it not your job.

-Of course it is… I'm a Dexholder so it's my job- she said- I have to help people, this is our use. I may not do a good job at doing it, but it's my job.

-I don't really agree with that, but again… It's not your job… you could quit anytime about being a Pokedex Holder if you feel like it- I told her, she looked at me amazed

-I can't quit, we were designed to help people and were trained for that- she said- I can't quit, the people would treat me like a traitor if I did.

-No one could blame you for nothing!- I interrupted her- You're fifteen years old and you've fought way more than what it's normal at this age. You got rid of Team Rocket, other minor teams and you're fighting against another one right now. And you're just a teenager.

-But…

-No buts Sapphire- I said then- You're not an item, you're a human being. You can decide what you want. You can live the life you want, you've suffered way more that what you should have for a person at your age. So if you want you could quit- I decided to push her buttons a little harder then- If you keep saying that you're a failure maybe you should.

-What?- she said surprised- But I don't want to quit! I want to help people! I want to protect them as much as I can because I don't want anyone to feel like I felt when I saw him die! I want to help people.

-Then don't quit- I said nonchalantly.

-What? I don't understand what you're telling me Rub!- she said standing up- I can't understand you!

-I just suggested that you don't quit then- I said- Look I already got what I wanted and you didn't even notice.

-What?- she asked.

-You kept telling that helping people was your job, that they would be mad at you if you did. I liked the last speech better… when you said that you didn't want to quit, that you wanted to help people- I told her- You care for others in a way difficult to mimic. You're not forced to help people, you WANT to help them. You're not forced to put yourself in danger to help people, you do that because you WANT to help them. As I said you're a human being, not the Association's tool, so you can decide what you want. But the result is even more impressive because you WANT to help people. You and the other Dexholders are so awesome that it just feels like an understatement to call you as just awesome.

-I'm not awesome- she said then.

-Yes you are! The first thing you thought about when I made you imagine that you had a special power was thinking in ways to help people with it, not looking at the wrong uses or even the dangers that could affect you- I said.

- I'm not that awesome if I can't help the ones I care for…

-Tell me something. You battled the grunts and defeated them didn't you?- she nodded- What could've happened if you hadn't beaten them?

-I don't know…

-I'll tell you then- I said- The grunts would've kept attacking the Contest's Hall, and the building would've crumbled down earlier. This way Red and Blue wouldn't have been able to save the people inside and I wouldn't have been able to escape either. It's true that some of the people died in there, I saw it. But I would also be dead and like me the majority of the people who were inside when it happened.

-I don't know…- she said.

-I do… everyone of you had a task in there. You did your assignment perfectly the same as the others. Without your help, a huge tragedy would've taken place in there… so don't dare to say that you're a failure when so many people owe you their lives- I said.

-But you could've died there.

- I could be dead now, right. But it wouldn't be your fault, not at all. There's no way, as much as you want to, to be able to save everyone- I said- but that doesn't mean that you failed. I was just something you couldn't control, not a mistake you did.

-You really mean that?- she asked looking directly at my eyes looking for a sign of lie in there.

-Of course- I said- I really meant that and I know another thing. If Ruby really sees you and has been able to hear you the same that you say that you can talk to him while sitting in front of his gravestone… I can guess without any fear of being mistaken that he is really proud to see how you've become.

-You think so?- she asked.

-I'm sure of it- I said offering my hand to let her up- We should be going don't you think? Blue and the others seemed worried about you.

- Yes we should- she said grabbing my hand and standing up- Why did you come here? And how could you find me?

-I knew you were upset about something so I came to see if I could do something to cheer you up a little- I answered- And you told me that you came here when something was bothering you when you guided me here the last time.

- Could you keep this a secret from the others? I don't want them to know where I go when I want to be alone…- she said.

-Sure, but only if you tell me when something's wrong and I can do something about it- I told her.

-Sure- she said stretching her legs a little before looking down again.

-Feeling better?- I asked her then.

- Very much- she said- thanks, you know… for cheering me up.

-Don't mention it… I don't like to see my friends upset when they haven't done anything wrong and they're just being too hard on themselves.

-You were right.. you have never failed to cheer me up- she said- How do you do it?

-I just only state the truth when you are so mad that you forget to see it…- I said- It's easy to cheer you up when you've done nothing wrong. Shall we go?

-Sure, just a moment- she said before she sat down in front of the stone for a minute like she was praying, this time though she had a smile in her face before she muttered a low "thanks" to the rock.

I looked one last time towards the rock at the top of the hill feeling the same guilt I felt the first time I came here. It was the same sensation that I could lift a take out a lot of sorrow from them all. I also felt the same fear I felt the last time when I thought about it then, but as the days kept passing, my excuses were beginning to be less convincing. I would have to confess everything sooner or later and I felt that they deserved to know soon, even if I didn't feel prepared yet. I then looked up at Sapphire who was waiting for me with the bandana on her head. When I reached her side we all started walking through the not very thick forest.

As we were walking I slowly, but surely began to walk clearly behind her. She was as energetic as always while I was still quite tired. I soon started to try and keep her pace, but then I coughed multiple times… She turned towards me with worry in her eyes.

-Are you okay?- she asked.

-I'm just coughing, it's alright- I said- I'm just tired, the doctor ordered me to get as much sleep as I could.

-Then why did you come all the way to talk to me?- she asked like scolding me- you should be sleeping right now.

-I just wanted to see how you were doing- I said- and it's no big deal. I can walk normally.

She seemed to think for a short time before she did something I didn't expect . She took my hand in hers surprising me. I felt my face get a little warmer then and when I was about to ask her why did she do that she answered the unspoken question herself.

-This way I'll walk next to you- she said- and I won't walk ahead of you tempting you to catch up. I'll also be able to help you if you began to feel wrong…

-It's not a bad idea- I told her while we began to walk again.

-When we arrive at your apartment you're going to go directly to your bed okay?- she asked in a commanding tone.

-Yes ma'am- I said chuckling then as we walked back to my place.

We walked for about 20 minutes. It was not that long of a walk, but I was walking slower than what I normally do due to the tiredness I was feeling. She explained me how they were able to beat the grunts and how they found me. I was surprised when she explained the strategy that Gold used first and the one Yellow and Silver pulled out later. When we reached my apartment she finally let go of my hand to allow me to open the door. She looked at me then.

-Thank you for everything again Rub. It means the world to me- she said.

-No problem- I told her smiling.

-I was so happy when I saw Zuzu carrying you out of that hole… And when Red told us that you were okay… I felt so relieved- she said- Tou have no idea…

-I'm okay, Sapphire- I told her putting a hand on her shoulder- Just don't beat yourself up that much from now on.

-I won't…- she said smiling- and you know what we said. I want you to be in your bed as soon as I close this door okay? Sleep tight and thanks again.

-Don't worry ma'am- I told her laughing a little- I'll be right there. Good bye.

-Bye Rub- she said then before I closed the door.

Doing what she asked me to do, I was inside my bed a minute after that. I was very tired and I saw that being a little past 5:30 pm. I would be able to sleep for almost 4 hours before I would have dinner. Before sleeping I recalled the story I had explained to Sapphire a little while ago. I'm sure that she wouldn't be thinking about it very much, but like that she was introduced to the fact that she was, indeed, the Controller of the Sea. Before falling asleep I recalled why I found out that.

I was in the middle of one of my tests… It was somewhere at the end of August, more than three months after I was kidnapped. It was some medical test in which they were taking some of my blood from my left arm while they were doing a full scanner of my body. They were using some magnetic waves to do it. They had made me drink something so I was just in the line of losing consciousness. This one of the times when I would meet the man who was doing all that, Marchie, the master of this organization. He was present in most of the test that were done to me or the others. Him and the main doctor were present there.

-Master I have great news for you- the doctor said then- I have the results of the lasts tests.

-Are any of the results what we want?- Marchie asked.

-We should talk about it later- the doctor said- the boy could hear it.

-It's been ten minutes since we gave him the drug, he's deep in his sleep now- so that's why I was feeling so dizzy at the moment- and he wouldn't understand also.

-So I have great news- said the doctor excitedly- One of them is the sea controller. The controller of the sea monster known as Kyogre…

-That's wonderful!- I heard Marchie's voice say- Who is it?

-Seems like your powers were telling you the truth- said the other voices who were starting to sound more distant very second- When you said that you felt something different about the little and scared girl, Master. The lastests tests we did on her showed that the Sapphire is the controller.

And that was the last thing I heard before losing consciousness due to the drug. Just like it was the last thing I thought before falling sleep due to the tiredness.

Marchie's POV

We had just arrived at our final destination. Everything was almost prepared. All the grunts trained and prepared for our mission. The machine had been completed and it was being kept in the most protected location in the submarine. I was sitting at the front of the screen waiting for my right hand to answer. I was anxious like never before. Just then two faces appeared on the screen. One of them wouldn't look at me while the other could.

-I'm sorry master- said Malcom- We failed, we had everything planned, but they were able to beat us…

-WHAT?- I asked standing up- HOW COULD THAT HAPPEN? You promised me the girl! And you failed? What are we going to do now? I DON'T WANT TO WAIT ANYMORE!

-I'm sorry, Master…- Malcom said- I really am…

-You'll be sorry when I get my hands on you…- I said- You failed and you have the nerve to face me? Teleport them here immediately!

-Grumpig Teleport them to the base- said the other face on the screen as Malcom disappeared from it- Let's not do anything harsh. We still have an option of getting her without risking a lot of members.

-What do you mean with that?- I asked my right hand.

-I had saved this one for an emergency like this one-he said- I still have a plan, and this time I'll be the one to do it. All I ask is for you to wait for less than a week.

-I'll listen at what you have to say- I told him- then I'll decide if I agree or not.

-I'm sure you will…

Blue's POV

I was in my room studying, but I was losing my focus quite often. I kept thinking about Sapphire again and again. Green was reading a book while laying on the side of my bed. He was waiting for Emerald to call us and tell us that he was finished with the pokeballs. I saw him looking at me worriedly sometimes giving encouraging smiles, but I could tell he was worried too.

-Everything's going to be okay Blue…- he said then looking out and seeing that the sun was halfway to the horizon.

As if on cue I heard four knocks on the door. I stood up quickly and raced towards the door. I opened it quickly and when I saw who had knocked I pulled Sapphire in a bear hug.

-Where were you Sapphire?


And that's the end of this is the longest one by far about 10.400 words!

I know for sure that it's not what you people though when I ended the last one... Some of you expected the story to reach the final climax, but I do think that is still quite early for that. This chapter was scheduled to be like that since the first day too, so I have no regrets... I hope you found it interesting too, even though it surprised you I really hope it didn't disappoint you.

As I said... it's TIME WITH REVIEWS!

smile all of your days: I won't judge badly (only for the competition). You guessed a little and you got some things right, but some of them wrong... I see that you gave that machine some thought, you should because more will be explained of it in due time. Thanks for reviewing!

12courtney12: OMG! Another Reviewer high on sugar! XD I'm glad you feel like that when I update. You didn't guess a lot in your review, but I got a surprise for you...

midnightbrowneyes: Oh, well thank you! I'm gald you like it. The fact that you're not the first at telling me this tells me that I'm doing a good job. I alwasy try to write chapters that are longer than 7.500 words, but I usually pass this number by a lot of them. Don't worry, things are evolving quickly. Thanks for your kind words.

Sigmatic: Something will be said, that's for sure. In his defense I'll say that he helped a lot of people doing that.

comisure: Well in your case you guessed quite a bit, but I have to say that although you gave an interesting point of view... not everything is correct. Still I've got to thank you for spending a little part pf yuor time reviewing this story. Thanks!

RionaCremisi: OMG! That has to be the longest Review in the history! Now for the matter at hand... You guessed a lot, but I have to tell you something. I also liked and a lot the final battle in the Ruby and Sapphire arc in Pokemon Adventures/Special, but I'm not going to copy it. As much as I like it I have another thing planned about the final climax. This chapter I'm sure that surprised you and a lot of people, but I also hope that you liked it. Juan (the french guy) will not appear nor will mirage island and as much as I like these pokemon... Rayquaza and Celebi won't appear either. I'm sorry to tell you that the story won't be like you wished it to be, but I'm quite sure that if I'm able to put what I have in mind into words, you'll enjoy the ending of this fic too. Thanks for reviewing.

PD: Crimson flash bombs are just perfect!

That's the end with TIME WITH REVIEWS. As always I got to thank you guys for helping this fic grow. I've reached the amount of 13.000 views and 116 Reviews and it's all thanks to you!

As for the competition: I got 6 reviews guessing things that are to happen or have already happened in this chapter. The winner is none other than 12courtney12, so CONGRATULATIONS!

Some of you will say that the review she sent wasn't that long and had quite a few guesses and I know that, but here are my reasons:

1- In the review she didn't guess a lot, but she guessed everything right.

2(And the most important)- She sent me a PM back in August (yes August!) telling me her therory about it... And just being around chapter 20 she guessed a lot of things right surprising me. Not everything was correct, but she got the major point of the story correct.

3- If she allows me, I'll post a copy of her PM so you can see that I'm not lying. And keep in mind that she guessed it two months ago...

So I'm sorry to everyone that wasn't the winner. All of you have great imagination, but we've got different ideas (not better or worse, just different). I don't know if this will be last competition I organize here, but if I do you can try your luck or knowledge again... As for the winner... I'll contact you for the prize ( as it can't be anything material, it'll be something related to fanfiction).

Having said that I believe it's my time to cpncentrate on exams... I'll try to udate in a maximum of 3 weeks and as sure as my fanfiction name is Rubyspe, I'll stick to my words!

REVIEW and STAY TUNNED!