Surprise everyone! Yes, I've decided for a special update, and it's lucky number 13! How many years has it been? It's too late to look up any numbers so let's just say it's been a long time!

Fun fact! I originally wrote this chapter and the one after this as three chapters, but they each ended up as too short and breaking them up into three chapters just didn't make sense. Instead, I just made two longer chapters, so another special treat for everyone!

And now the reply to the review!

M3G4N5H059: Thank you for your kind words! I'm sure you'll be happy with Ashley's child!

I need to sleep soon so let's just get to the chapter! But first, the disclaimer!

Disclaimer: I don't own any part of Pokemon, anything I refer to, or the song the lyrics below are from. Everything belongs to their respective owners.

I'll carry on, forever on, while dreaming of that fateful day

Because of you, there's only you, just give the word we'll run away

Is it a dream, only a dream, is it my fault for having faith

When you return, will you return, will we, at last, find our escape

Chapter Thirteen

Alice's POV

"And it's finally done!" I exclaimed as I set the music box on the shelf. I stood back as I admired the finished nursery. There was a silver crib in one corner of the room, with a mobile themed after the night sky hanging over it. I placed luminescent starts all over the walls which glowed when the lights were off. A white bookshelf with small baby books and classical music albums sat across the room. Next to the crib was a white rocking chair. I had several pillows and pokémon plushies around the room. Framed pictures of my pokémon hung on the walls, showing all of them smiling. A changing table sat between the chair and shelf.

I knew I still had months to go, but I couldn't help myself. I worked on the nursery since I got here as I was too excited to just do nothing all day. I placed a hand on my stomach. I was only two months in, yet I finished the nursery. There was still a lot I need to do to prepare for the baby to come.

I have been seeing a doctor about my pregnancy. I've had an ultrasound to make sure my baby has been okay. So far, so good. I'm still keeping it a secret from Bree and Hood. I know it's been a month since I came to live here, but we're still catching up on what happened during the month we've been apart.

I heard that Ruby and Sapphire have finally gotten to Kalos and met with Jade and Garnet. As soon as they met up, Hood, Bree, and I video chatted with them. The four of them were about to find a small house in Kiloude City in the île-de-Kalos. Turns out, they met with their foster mom in Kalos. She divorced her abusive husband and moved to Kalos to get some peace. She ended up meeting them at the Lumiouse Station and lived in Lumiouse City.

Jade and Garnet were also happy to see me well. They were all excited to see Hood and Bree too, considering I didn't tell them until we video chatted. Since they were hours behind us, in terms of time zones, it's hard to video chat or call each other, but we made it work. We were able to talk almost every day.

Sapphire and Garnet were able to get a job at the Battle Maison in Kiloude while Ruby and Jade took the train to get to Lumiouse for their jobs there. I was proud that they were able to start off with a new life. They had nothing to worry about now.

Since I was finished in the nursey, I exited and closed and locked the door behind me. I kept the key on a chain around my neck. I didn't want anyone to accidentally go in there. I wasn't worried about my pokémon, but if I had Hood or Bree over, then they'll suspect something. I walked out to the living room where Gallade and Lucario were nursing their egg.

That's right; they have an egg together. I have no idea how. Not just how pokémon make eggs in general, but Lucario and Gallade are in different egg groups so it isn't possible for them to have an egg together, but I think the power of love can change anything. I don't know how long it's going to take an egg to hatch since I never took care of one before; especially one from pokémon in two different egg groups.

It was a royal blue color with a black stripe running near the top, going from thick to thin. A triangle was cut out of the bottom of the black stipe at the thickest part of the stripe. A thin pale yellow stripe ran above the black.

Lucario was holding it close to her as Gallade had his arm around her shoulders. I gave them as much time as they wanted alone. There was still some teasing, but since they were an official couple, it was less.

Life was simple now. I was able to relax with my pokémon every night, even go out to dinner with Hood and Bree or Amelia and Marco. The latter couple was such a cute pair. As I got to know them, the more I wanted their kind of life. They were together, without a care in the world. My love life was less than ideal. I'm not sure if I even want to be in another relationship.

I shook the thought away. I was happy now and I didn't want the feeling to fade. I don't want to slip back into the void…

"Hey," Espeon's voice snapped me back to reality. "Are we going to the park today or not?"

"Yes, we are." I nodded. "I just had to finish the nursery."

"You're still months away." Umbreon pointed out.

"What harm comes from being ready?" I asked. "Absol, are you coming?"

Absol came walking out of my bedroom with Pikachu riding on her. Pikachu jumped off and ran up to my shoulder.

"Are you two going to be okay here?" I asked Lucario and Gallade.

Don't worry yourself. Lucario said.

"I swear if you burn down the place again." I sighed.

"I'll make sure she doesn't try to cook," Gallade spoke up.

"Thank you," I said as I opened the door.

Espeon, Umbreon, and Absol walked out as I closed the door behind me. I heard it lock. I turned my head and saw Amelia and Marco at the end, coming out of their apartment. I waved towards them. Amelia waved back and walked over to me.

"Hey Aika!" she greeted me. "Where are you going?"

"Just to the park," I answered. "The one near the market."

"I hope you have fun." She smiled. "Marco and I are just heading to pick up some take out." She said as Marco walked up to me.

"You're taking your pokémon out?" Marco asked.

"Yeah. I know there's a garden here where they can play, but I want them to play on something they won't break."

"That was one time!" Espeon protested. "And Absol is all fine now, right?"

Absol just replied by throwing Espeon off her back.

"I told you not to use her as a trampoline." Umbreon remarked, "That's why there's a Snorlax."

"We should get going," I said as I waved goodbye.

I walked down the stairs with my pokémon and into one of the alleys. I remembered most of the symbols and alleys by now. I easily made my way through the maze and came out on a street near the park. I only had to walk a few blocks before I arrived.

It was a large park with trails for biking, running, and walking. There was a lake with an orchard around it. A large fountain sat near the sitting area where there were several shops set up. It was near the outdoors market so people would shop and come to the park to rest after.

There was even a playground for both pokémon and children. I let Espeon and Umbreon play with Pikachu at the playground while Absol stayed with me. I placed a hand on my stomach. There was a slight rise in it, but it was nothing noticeable.

I sat down on a bench near the lake as I stared at the water pokémon play in it. People were free to pick the ripe fruits in the orchard near the park. I gave permission for Absol to go and find something she liked to eat.

I would take my pokémon out to the park every day so they could get some exercise and fresh air. It became a regular routine for me. My pokémon loved it and I enjoy the peace was able to get. The news about Rocket has faded, but there was still bounties on our head. In fact, there was a bounty on everyone's head back at the complex. Since everyone used to be part of a team, everyone was wanted. But they didn't care.

I learned to ignore the news and just do my own thing. I even took up drawing and painting as a hobby when I was at home. Hood recommended that I buy a laptop or a computer for my apartment, but I didn't want to. My pokémon was addicted to television enough. I spent most of my days reading or working on some art. I'll usually play some music when I was working. It not only helps me but the baby as well.

I was happy with my life and I'm sure my pokémon are too.

"Wait, so you actually talked to them?" I asked Hood. I was out with him and Bree for lunch.

"Yeah. I got a call from a Sevii number and it was James." Hood nodded.

"What did he say? And why are they there?" I asked.

"Well, that's where the executives are." Bree pointed out. "But James' family is crazy rich too. He has a summer cotton in the Sevii Islands."

"And Jessie and Meowth are hanging there as well." Hood added.

"But why would he call you?"

"He wanted a portable PC connected to the Rocket system so he can get the rest of their pokémon out of there." He explained. "Since Team Rocket fell, all of the pokémon in the system were left intact by the authorities since they couldn't harm any of them for what Rocket did. They're only concerned with the member, not pokémon."

"When the trio left with the executives, they left most of their pokémon behind. In the two months, they've just been hiding low and now they just want their pokémon back." Bree continued.

"I work for a data company so I'm able to access any kind of data. Coincidentally, my company was the one who the government assigned Rocket's PC data to." Hood explained. "So, I'm able to build a portable PC and have it access Rocket's system."

"But isn't that risky?" I asked.

"The Association doesn't care about PC data. Even for teams like Rocket. But I'll try to make sure to encrypt it as best I can." He said.

"Still," I sighed.

"I don't like the idea either since we might get caught, but let's be honest: those three have been hardly evil and they don't deserve to be apart from their pokémon," Bree said.

"I guess." I nodded. "On the other hand, I've never heard of a portable PC. It'll be interesting."

"That's the hard part," Hood said. "The world's PC data is connected all through a grounded system. I just need to figure out so to have the data be wireless."

"I'm sure you'll figure it out." Bree nudged him.

We sat in the café, talking about random things for a bit more. I'm starting to want more and more strange food combinations, and I'm worried they're starting to notice something strange. However, I was able to keep my cravings confided to my own kitchen and ate whatever seemed the most appetizing to me on the menu.

When we were waiting for our change after paying the check, I decided to take a shot. "Do you have Jessie's number by any chance?" I asked Hood. The two of them looked confused at me, but Bree nodded.

"Yeah. James called first, but then Jessie called just to check on our answer. I have her number here. But why?" Bree asked.

"I never was the nicest to them back at the base and I think everyone deserves a new chance," I explained. It wasn't a complete lie. I got Jessie's number from Bree and once we got our change, we parted ways.

I wanted Miyamoto to have a chance to speak with her daughter again since they've been apart from each other for so long. On the other hand, I don't know if either of them wants to see the other. I know Miyamoto loves Jessie, but how will Jessie react to seeing her mother again?

I wandered through the alleys for a bit, admiring the growing murals on the sides of the buildings. There were many people in the complex who aspire to become artists and they took to the alleys to practice as their canvas. I know Miyamoto liked it since she allowed the murals to stay up.

Most of them depict dreams of the residents in the complex. I even got approached by one of the artists to ask me what my dream was. I wasn't sure of myself yet, so I just told them I didn't have a dream yet. They seemed to accept it but promised to come back later to see if my answer changed.

I guess that's what I liked the most about the complex. Everyone knows how everyone else's past was. They bonded over their struggles and troubles. Everyone is a community that seems to accept everyone for who they are.

I finally made it back to the complex where several young children ran past. Yes, some of the residents here already had children of their own. Miyamoto just opened a new playground near the middle of the complex for the kids to play in. I could only wait until the day comes where my child can play with them.

I could tell Miyamoto was in her house since the lights were on. After some debating with myself, I decided to just go in and call. I knocked on her door. Miyamoto immediately opens up.

"Ah, Alice darling! What a pleasant surprise." She smiled when she opened the door. "Please, come in!"

She welcomed me in, and I sat down at the dining table with her. "Now, to what do I owe this lovely visit?" she asked when she sat in the seat opposite of me.

"Well, so you remember when you told me about your daughter, Jessie?" I replied.

"Yes," Miyamoto nodded. "What of it?"

"Um, well." I sighed. I just took out my pokégear and called Jessie on it. I had the camera on and when she picked up, she was laying on a beach.

"Who is this?" she answered. "Huh? The white-haired twerpette?"

"Jessie," I sighed.

"Oh Arceus, I must be dreaming if you, of all people, are calling me!" she exclaimed.

"I'm trying to be civil here," I warned her. "Listen, I got your number from Hood and Bree when James and you talked to them."

"Oh right. I forgot you were friends with them." She said. "Anyways, what do you want?"

"I have someone to show you." I looked up towards Miyamoto. She had her hands covering her mouth, speechless at hearing her daughter's voice.

"Well, what is it? You're cutting into my tanning time." Jessie snapped. I turned my pokégear around and had the front camera facing Miyamoto. I could hear Jessie was silent and Miyamoto was starting to tear up. "Mom?" it came out as a whisper.

"Oh, my sweet little Jessie!" Miyamoto exclaimed as she held my pokégear. I smiled as I watched the two of them conversed with each other. To be honest, it was beautiful. Miyamoto was able to see her daughter again after so many years and Jessie is able to know what happened to her mom.

I didn't know how long they spent talking, but once they were done, Miyamoto was in tears. I accepted my pokégear back from her as she cried. I could hear her say 'Thank you' countless times, but I insisted that it was nothing. I just wanted family to be together again. Miyamoto now has Jessie's number herself and I'm sure they'll have more to talk about.

I walked out of the convenience store, satisfied with the snacks I just got. It was late at night and I couldn't sleep. I was hungry and craving some fried vegetable tempura and chocolate ice cream. Since I didn't want to disturb my pokémon, I went to the store myself.

It was probably one or two in the morning when I exited my apartment and the city lights barely illuminated the streets, but I felt safe in the alleys as Miyamoto's Dusknoir escorted me through. I was only a few streets down from the closest convenience store, so I walked there with no problem.

I probably spent about half an hour in the store, picking up random snacks that piqued my interest. I got a pack of ramen and plant-based gummies to eat later at home. I brought my bag of snacks, but not before buying the fried tempura at the front counter.

I knew I was going to eat it n the way home, so I got a bottle of chocolate syrup instead of the ice cream and drizzled that over the tempura as I ate and walked home. I wasn't even at the end of the block until I finished all of the tempura. I just threw the chocolate syrup back in the bag and walked home. I had my earbuds in and was just listening to some music.

Since it was a pretty nice night, I decided to go the long way. I avoided the alleys for a while. The streets weren't very busy and there was only the occasional car passing by. There's also a few people out, probably for some late-night partying and/or drinking. I probably walked only for a few minutes, when I felt like I was being followed. I had my hand in my pocket with my pokégear connected to my earbuds, but I turned it off so I could listen.

I wasn't too worried since I could defend myself, but seeing how my hormones are still running rampant, I was getting annoyed. It wasn't hard to figure it out. I turned down a random side street and I could hear footsteps behind me about a minute later. The noises of the city didn't drown anything out and I fixated my ears on who was behind me.

I didn't want to seem suspicious, so I didn't dare to look behind me. I was trying to come up with a plan to get this stalker off my back. I knew going on the main streets was a safer opinion so I went back on the main street. I eventually have to go back into the alleys, but I need to come up with a plan first.

I just can't go back in right away. I want to deal with the stalker myself. Eventually, I walked down another side street. I pretended to look for an address. I turned my head from side to side, looking at both sides while slowing my walk down. I knew this will probably lure whoever my follower was.

I turned into the alleys connected to the complex. I heard the footsteps behind me get closer until they were practically behind me. I turned around with my foot up high and hit whoever it was with a roundhouse kick. The person grunted and smacked his head against the wall. I could see that he had a blade in his hand.

"You messed with the wrong person tonight." I glared at the figure. I ripped my earbuds out and dropped my bag of snacks. The figure was back on his feet; he was wearing all black with a black hood covering his face. However, I could see the stream of blood trickling down his face.

"Damn bitch," he growled. He rushed at me with the knife in his hand. I grabbed his wrist and moved it to the side I pulled him in and kneed him in the stomach.

I twisted his wrist which made him drop the knife to the ground. I let go of him as he was gasping for air and I kicked the knife away from him. The guy was already up. He came running at me again, but I grabbed his wrist and flipped him over. He landed on his feet and pushed me against the wall.

I was not giving up, so I kicked him between the legs. When his hands let go of my wrists, I punched him clean across the face. Seems like that was enough to knock him out. The person slumped over and fell to the ground.

"Arceus," I sighed as I panted. I haven't exercise in a while and I was already out of breath. By the time I knocked the guy unconscious, a team of Sneasel and a Weavile came running to my location. Dusknoir faded in.

"I'm fine," I told them. "I was able to hold my own. But I think it's time to get this guy to the police."

One of the Sneasel poked around the guy's jacket and found several knives, stolen wallets, and even some drugs.

"Well, at least the police can charge him with stealing and procession of some illegal drugs." I sighed. The team of Sneasel picked up the guy and carried him off. Only the Weavile and Dusknoir stayed. Suddenly, Weavile turned his head and jumped towards one of the rooftops.

I was surprised to see another hooded figure jump down from where Weavile attacked. Weavile landed in front of me and was ready to attack.

"Hey there! I'm not looking for trouble!" the figure said as they removed the hood. I felt a mix of emotions when I saw the face. Anger, relief, shock, regret. I never thought I would have to see Dan's face again so soon.

Despite his words, both Weavile and Dusknoir look ready to attack him. I sighed and just picked up my bag. "It's okay," I told them. "I have to talk to him about some things." They both seemed to accept it and backed off. Weavile ran back into the darkness, but Dusknoir stayed.

I walked up to Dan. I was surprisingly calm, although that could have been my adrenaline mixed with my hormones. "What are you doing here?"

"Is that any way to greet me after months?" he asked.

"Please Dan, it's late and I want to sleep. Now, what are you doing?" I snapped. Okay, my lack of sleep if finally catching up to me.

"I was just going through the city when I saw a guy following a girl. I didn't have anything else to do except to see what happens next. I didn't expect to run in you." He replied.

"Stalker," I mumbled under my breath.

"So, what have you been doing?" he asked me.

"I'm fine," I answered. The least I can do is be civil. "You?"

"I've been trying to survive. I'm just going to city to city, town to town. I haven't settled anywhere yet." He answered. "Anything new with you?"

"Not particularly," I replied. It's still technically the truth. At this point, the conversation has gotten awkward and my gut is not agreeing with me in any way. I'm not sure if it's from seeing him again and the thought of he might be the father or the thought of just seeing him again after I last saw him, but it wasn't good. "Well, it was a surprise to see you again, but I have to go." I started with walk off.

"Wait!" I let him grabbed my wrist. At this point, I was trying not to shake or throw up. "Can we just talk more a second? It's been so long."

"Dan, whatever happened the last time we talked is not something I'm proud of," I told him, without turning around. "People live and move on. Perhaps you need to learn that. You never know what a person is truly going through." I yanked my hand free and proceeded to walk away. Dusknoir followed me, making sure I got back to the complex safely.

When I got to my apartment, I thanked Dusknoir and he floated off. I entered my apartment where my pokémon were still all asleep. I placed my bag on the kitchen counter and put some of the stuff away. I ripped open the ramen packet and placed the block of ramen in a bowl.

I set a kettle of water on the stove and waited for it to boil. I added the seasoning packets in and checked the time. Three in the morning. I sighed. I'll probably sleep in until noon if I fall asleep late.

Most of my pokémon has taken up sleeping in the nursery since there was room, but Lucario and Gallade are sleeping in the living room, on the sofa. I didn't mind it since open up into a futon. I tried my best to keep things quiet, but it wasn't hard. Those two are heavy sleepers.

When the water boiled, I turned off the stove and poured the water over the ramen. I covered it and let that steep as I poured the rest of the water in a pitcher. I filled the kettle with more water and just put that back on the stove. I left the lid of the pitcher off to let it cool faster.

I grabbed the bag of gummies and opened it up. I ate some while I was waiting for the ramen. But the time it was done, I finished about half the bag of gummies. I just dumped the rest in and ate the ramen. My stomach has settled done since earlier and I'm glad for the moment of silence.

When I was finished, I washed the bowl and pair of chopsticks I used and cleaned up everything. I went to the bathroom to wash up and rinse my mouth out before going back to bed. Once my head hit the pillow, I just fell asleep.

"Listen, I'm going to a yoga class for a few hours so don't mess the apartment up," I told my pokémon.

"Hey, can we come with you?" Espeon asked.

"No," I said. "This is a human-only class for pregnant women. There's a pokémon one next week so I'll think about it."

"But it's boring here!" she whined.

"Go play in the garden then!" I told her. "You're just like a bratty teenager!"

"Think of it this way," Umbreon started. "She's just preparing you for your own whiney brat."

"Arceus." I sighed. I left the apartment and closed the door.

I was a bit self-conscious about how I looked. I just finished my first trimester, but my stomach is looking a bit bigger than it should be for one child in there. I checked with my doctor, but he said that everything was fine.

I just left it alone. I wasn't too worried about the baby. I was doing everything I was supposed to and took care of myself. I till haven't told anyone else and I guess I'm starting to feel guilty since I'm sure they'll notice soon. I'm wearing baggier clothes each day to try and hide my stomach. I'm just glad it's getting colder so it was easy to hide.

I've been going to the gym more often, so I stay in shape. I take things lightly since I didn't want to overexert myself. Not many people at the gym have noticed since I wear baggy clothes there most of the time.

Ever since that night where I met Dan, a Weavile or Sneasel is always there to escort me through the alleys even during the daytime. I insisted I didn't need it, but they had other ideas. I'm sure Miyamoto didn't even put them up to it either. The pokémon who patrol the alleys just care that mush for the residents in the complex. Whenever I have to go at night, Dusknoir escorts me through the alleys while a Sneasel is waiting for me at the end, walking with me to wherever I go to.

I could bring my pokémon with me, but they deserve to relax and have fun with the others. I still take them outside for fresh air, but I just let them do their own things. If they want to come, then I let them.

Getting used to a normal life is surprisingly hard. I was just used to a set routine, but now that I have the freedom to do whatever I want, I find it hard to keep myself busy. Perhaps I should find a job. Both Hood and Bree have one and they seem happy with their life now. For me, I just don't know if it's a good idea considering my circumstances. I still have plenty of money to use and live off of, but if I'm going to be raising a child, it still may not be enough.

I shook my head. That's still a long way to go so I don't need to worry much about that now. I just need to focus on my wellbeing.

I was in front of the gym in only a few minutes. My yoga class doesn't start for another ten minutes, but I enjoy the moments of peace before the class. I don't really talk to the others in the class since they were older than me. Seeing how I was 17 and pregnant, I could feel that some of them were judging me. I just ignore them and whatever gossip they had.

I came into the room and only saw the instructor there. I guess the others are running late. In any case, I went and picked my spot. I placed my bag in one of the lockers in the room and rolled out my yoga mat.

I was fine with waiting ten minutes for the class to start. I just put on some music and sat on my amt while waiting. It wasn't that I didn't want to talk to the instructor, but she had other things to do. Eventually, the others started to come in and take their spots around me.

When it was almost time, I stopped my music and started stretching for the class. When it was time to start, the door opened.

"Ah, finally." The instructor said. I looked around and saw a teenage boy walk in and towards the front where the instructor was. "Ladies, this is my son. He'll be taking charge of the class today." The instructor said. "His name is Junki. He's studying to become a personal trainer, but I'm allowing him to teach my class today as an experience lesson."

"Hi everyone." He waved. He looked around my age and considering how most of these women are older than him, it's a bit weird to see a younger instructor. "I never really done yoga before, but I learned a lot from my mom here."

The class went on and I didn't mind him. He was decent as an instructor although the actual instructor had to step in a few times for the more advanced exercises. When we were done, most of the others huddled together to gossip like every other day. I just rolled up my mat and went to my locker.

I got most of my stuff when Junki walked up to me. "Hello!" he said. I would be lying if I said I didn't jump when I heard his voice next to me. I didn't even notice him walking over here.

"Um, hi." I replied. I got the rest of my rest in my bag and closed the locker.

"You look a lot younger than the others here." He said. "Perhaps around my age? I'm eighteen by the way."

I know where this is going. He was trying to flirt with me although in a very creepy way.

"Yeah I made some dumb mistakes, but I'm young." I sighed. "I'm learning."

"Maybe we can hang out sometimes? My mom is allowing me to teach one of her classes every week. We decided on Fridays." He said.

"I'm sorry, but I'm busy after class." I excused myself. "I have to get going now."

"Okay then. I'll see you next week!" he called out as I walked through the door. I can see that this can be a problem. However, Fridays are the classes where I can bring pokémon, so I don't have much to worry about then.

I walked out of the gym and by the time the class was over, I was hungry. I decided to stop by a café to get something to eat.

The waitress didn't bat an eye at my order which was a garden panini with chocolate and Cheri sauce drizzled all over it. She just laughed and told me that it was fine. I guess cravings also got to her.

While I was waiting, I just took a sip of my lemonade and watched the streets. Saffron is one of the busiest cities in the nation so there were a lot more cars than in most cities. I really didn't mind the sounds too much or the smell. I usually carry a mask with me so the pollution will filter through.

As I was watching the streets, I spotted a girl with long pink hair that contrasted with her tan skin. I nearly snorted the drink up my nose when I saw her. I coughed loudly as it went down the wrong way. After my coughing fit was done, I saw that the girl was walking up to my table. Well, more like running.

"Oh my Arceus!" the girl squealed as she sat down in the seat across from me. "I can't believe it!"

"Lilo! Please be quiet!" I told her. "We're still in a public place."

"Oh sorry." She apologized. "But how have you been? And why are your eyes blue?"

"Color contacts." I rolled my eyes. I've been keeping blue, but I like it. "And I'm doing fine. What are you doing here?"

"Since Rocket isn't doing much, I'm free to travel around for a bit," Lilo answered. "I never took a good look at Kanto so here I am! Are you living here now?"

"Yeah. I found an apartment and I'm here. I have never been to any other regions so I'm just in Kanto for now." I shrugged.

"You know, you can always call me, and we can go traveling somewhere." She said. "Wait, do you have a new number?"

I nodded and gave it to her. I added her number in my pokégear and we just sat there talking. We only stopped when my meal came. Lilo also ordered and got a drink.

"That's interesting looking." She remarked when she saw my panini with the chocolate and Cheri sauce.

"Well, I'm always open to trying something new." I laughed nervously. She raised a brow but said nothing else.

We ate in peace while talking about the different events that happened in our lives since the fall.

"So the entire branch got shut down?" I asked her. We finished our food but were just enjoying our drinks.

"Yeah. We can't really do much least we risk exposing ourselves." Lilo shrugged.

"Does this apply to the other regions?" I replied.

"Since we're away from the other regions. I don't know." She shook her head. "Wait, didn't you go to Johto?"

"Oh right." I nearly forgot. "Well, the grunts here had no idea about the Kanto base going down. I guess they all went into hiding." I said.

"Makes sense." She nodded. We finished and spilt the check together. I said goodbye to her before we parted ways.

I was able to let out a sigh of relief since I thought she would find out that I was pregnant. It's not like I didn't want her to know, but I feel like it won't affect her in any way if I did.

I returned home through the alleyways and found all of my pokémon taking a nap in the living room. I rolled my eyes and went to take a shower. After cleaning myself up and changing clothes, I decided to sit down at my desk and turn on some music on the radio while I drew something.

I want my child to have something that showed them how much I love them already and want them to stay.

I got up to get dinner and saw that my pokémon already woke up and were watching television. I made them food as well and returned to my drawing.

It was already past midnight when I heard the radio turn to static.

"What's the matter with this thing?" I stood up from my seat and walked over to the radio. I turned the knob, trying to tune it, but the static was still there.

"Hey, is there anything to eat?" I saw the door get pushed open and Espeon and Umbreon walked in.

"What are you two doing still up?" I glared at them. I looked at the time. "It's almost two in the morning!"

"I could say the same thing about you." Espeon shot back. I rolled my eyes and focused back on the radio. The static was only getting louder.

"What's wrong with the radio?" Umbreon asked as she jumped on the table.

"I have no idea," I said as I tried everything I could. Even when I tried turning it off, the static stilled played. Suddenly, it cut to silence and a small voice came on.

"Is it working? Are we on?" the raspy voice came from the radio. I stepped back. "We are? Great!" whoever it was cleared his voice.

"Attention people of the regions! You may have thought we saw the last of us only a few months ago, but you were wrong! The glorious Team Rocket has risen again! We are calling all former members to aid us in our conquest in the world! The Madame is waiting for everyone! To the place where the ground will meet the sky!"

I could feel my feet stuck to the ground as the message went on. This can't be happening. Not now. Not when I have my life finally together. My heart sank as I felt something in my stomach. I looked down and suddenly saw my future in front of me. I will be a mother and I am not letting my child live thinking their mother is a murderer.

I looked at the drawing I was working on. I finished just before the radio went crazy. I know what I need to do now.

"Well shit." The sisters said in unison.

"Can we just ignore this?" Espeon asked.

"Life was just getting good," Umbreon added.

"No," I whispered. "If they continued like this then no one can ever be free!" I exclaimed. "I need to end it. I have to."

I immediately went over to my drawer and pulled out a black bag. I would be lying if I said I threw away my old uniform, but I had some kind of sentiment about it. I grabbed two pokéballs and stuffed in the bag with my old uniform and a few other things. Deep in the drawer was a wooden box.

Pulling up the courage, I grabbed the box and opened it up. Inside were numerous shining red shurikens and a dagger. I closed it quickly and placed that in my bag as well.

"Are the others awake?" I asked Espeon and Umbreon.

"I think they're asleep," Umbreon said as she jumped down. "Why?"

"Good." I sighed. "They've been through enough. Unfortunately, I have to ask you two to help me one last time."

"What do you mean? Are you just abandoning them here?" Espeon glared.

"Of course not! I don't want them to face anything like Rocket again! I'm letting them have a better life. If they're with me, then who knows what will happen to them."

"so you don't care about what happens to us, huh?" Espeon added.

"Oh please. Even if I told you not to come you two will anyways." I smiled. "You're too stubborn that way."

"Well, she saw through us," Umbreon smirked. Espeon developed a smirk as well.

"You're right." Espeon laughed. "So what to do now?"

"Where the ground meets the sky," I said. "There's only one place where that description fits."

Before I left, I took the picture I drew and hung it up over my bed. Even when I'm gone, I don't want my pokémon to think I left them for now reason. What I drew was me and my pokémon smiling. In my hands was a small bundle of blankets. My pokémon were surrounding me in a flower field.

I wish that can actually happen one day.

With my bag and Espeon and Umbreon on either side of me, I slipped out of my room and tiptoed through the hallway. The door to the nursery was open so I looked in and saw Pikachu and Absol sleeping next to the crib I had set up. I smiled and my chest just grew tighter. Out of everyone, they were the most excited for the baby to come and it warmed my heart to see them get ready. However, I would never be able to use the nursery or even show them my child. I want to, but if I'm able to do what I can, the chance will never come.

I quietly closed the nursery door and went out to the living room. Lucario and Gallade were snuggled up on the sofa with their egg in the middle of them. That's another reason why I don't want them involved. Those two have their own family to think of and I'm not letting my problem affect their future. I wish for their kids to live happily and never know what their parents did.

I turned off all the lights in the apartments and wrote a small note for my pokémon in the morning. It wasn't much, but it got my point across. I taped it to the television that was still on. I turned it off and looked back at the note.

"I'm sorry," I whispered to them. I walked out of the front door and locked it behind me. I took out the key I had and threw it in the bushes. In the small garden behind the building had my Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur all sleeping together. They've been with me the longest, other than Pikachu, and they've never been apart. They've been through so much for me and I want to repay them but giving them a piece of mind.

I had a copy of the note I wrote for the apartment and let it float down to them. They'll see it in the morning.

I looked towards Bree and Hood's apartment. They would surely be asleep by now so they couldn't have heard the radio. They have their own life in front of them with a new beginning. This isn't for my own sake, but for all my friends. I don't even want to know what Ruby, Sapphire, Jade, and Garnet are doing while this is happening. I took out my pokégear and dropped it to the ground. I lifted my foot and crushed it into pieces. I kicked the pieces down to the earth below along with anything that would identify me.

"Are you okay?" Umbreon asked me.

"I'm fine," I whispered, but that wasn't true. I could feel tears running down my face. It's hard to let go something I worked so hard to achieve. I'm leaving everything behind again, but this time I will have regrets. I will know the impact it will have on those around me. It's the worst feeling to leave someone you love so much for their own happiness.

I wiped the tears away. I have to do this. I have to so everyone can be happy. If that involves me not contacting them again, then so be it. It hurts me more than it'll hurt them hopefully. I don't want to see them in pain. They've sacrificed everything for me so I might as well do something for them.

I walked down the stairs and towards the main exit out of the complex. Before I could leave, Miyamoto was standing there. I stopped in my tracks.

"So you're going, huh?" she asked me. She looked at me very casually and her voice was passive.

"I'm going to end it," I told her.

"And what makes you think you can do that?" she replied.

"Madame thought she made the perfect killing machine," I answered. "She thought she stripped it away of all human emotions and feelings, but she was wrong. A machine can also malfunction and diverge from its teachings."

"I wish I had the same thoughts as you," Miyamoto smirked. "But I found my calling here. It seems like you have another in mind." She walked up to me. "Protect that child with our life. You don't want to lose it."

I could feel my breath escaping me. "You knew?" I asked her.

"Of course. I'm a mother myself. I know when someone is pregnant. Plus your eating habits haven't been the best lately."

I could only laugh. "Well, thank you Miyamoto. I can't repay you for giving me a place to stay. Just please take care of my pokémon now. I'm giving my apartment to them."

"I see." She laughed. "That's something new. What about your friends then?"

"Keep them here. Don't tell them what happened to me." I told her. "They should only focus on what's ahead."

"I understand." She nodded. She stepped aside and I walked forward. "Oh, one last thing." She called out.

I stopped and looked back at her.

"Give Madame Boss hell for me," Miyamoto smirked. "Tell her I send my regards and I wish she suffers in the deepest depths of hell."

I smirked back. "Well do!" I told her before running into the alley. Espeon and Umbreon jumped on my shoulders as a squad of Sneasel and Weavile suddenly appeared and joined me in running. I looked towards them and saw they all smirking. They ran with me through the alleys and only stopped when I exited. I looked back and saw them all wave at me. After that, they disappeared.

"They wanted to say goodbye," Umbreon told me. "They wanted to see you one last time."

"I can see." I smiled. I looked back to where I was. I was in front of the gym, but the lights were on. I walked up to the doors and they opened on their own. I walked in and was faced with Sabrina sitting in her chair.

"I didn't expect you to act so quickly." She said as I walked up to her.

"Yeah, well I think this is better done at night. The news is going to be all over it by tomorrow morning." I shrugged.

"You're right about that." She nodded. "Gengar told me Lavender Town is in a panic." At her cue, a Gengar appeared next to her, crackling.

"I would assume so." I nodded. "So, what are you and those other two idiots going to do about this? I'm sure this wasn't planned by you."

"Of course not." She huffed. "Even Surge isn't that dumb to act so fast. I'm sure it was a few grunts. The executives may have edged them on too soon as well."

"Well, I'm sure you know my plans by now." I sighed. She nodded. "Are you going to do anything to stop me? I'm giving you this one chance."

"No. I believe this is meant to happen for the better." Sabrina sighed. "Not everything can last forever and I see your intentions to do so."

"I see." I nodded. "Then I must be off."

"Perhaps we meet again one day," Sabrina said when I got to the door.

"Aren't you the one who's supposed to know?" I smirked.

"I can't see destiny. Only fate." She replied. Before I left, I thought I saw a small smile on her face.

It's time for my destiny to reveal itself.

Sorry for that cliffhanger everyone! But since I'll be updating this more frequently now, you won't have to wait long. Let's just say I'm really excited about what's coming next!

Once again, I have to thank each and every one of you readers who stuck with me for so long and have been so patient. I really wanted this story to be the best it can be, so that's why it has taken a long time to write. Writer's block plagued me and TPTI for so long, but now that I have a clear vision for the end, I'm happy to say that I can finally finish this. I hope you continue to stay with me for as long as it takes!

Your kind words keep me going and just know that I love all of you for it! Until next time!

-AKCC, signing out!