Ordeal of Will

by Rfvbgty

After winning World Coronation Series, Ash comes home to unwind before embarking on a new journey. With so many of his old companions in Pallet Town congratulating him, Ash Ketchum's life cannot be any better. Will he be able to save the most important person in his life if actual evil strikes from the New Team Rocket? Poke/Advance/Pearl/Amour. Character Death and Dark themes.

1. Chapter 1

Ash was traveling from Vermillion City to Pallet Town for meeting his Pokemons, Professor Oak, Tracey, and his mother, Delia. He had parted ways with Goh and Chloe as they had their school that they had to attend for writing thier examinations. Ash's starter Pokemon, Pikachu, was walking by his side.

Ash then said in a happy tone "Pikachu, I am excited to travel to Pallet Town where we would be congratulated for beating Leon!" and Pikachu said in a happy voice "Pika!" and Ash nodded and said "It is amazing that at I was rapidly able to become so strong and even defeat Leon."

Ash and Pikachu ran in the path in the grassland in Route 6 for some time, happy to be spending time in nature, and then Ash and Pikachu came across a subway that would take them to Cerulean City. Ash and Pikachu then walked to the subway and then entered the subway.

Ash then said in a happy voice "We can meet Misty in Cerulean City! It has been quite a time since I last met her. I am so excited to meet her in person after quite a while." Ash and Pikachu then walked down the stairs and then soon reached the subway.

Ash and Pikachu then ran in the subway and then saw that there was an underground city that was on the sides of the subway. Ash and Pikachu ran in the subway for some time which was long as Saffron City was a large city and the subway was under Saffron City.

Ash remarked "I did not know that they developed an underground city in Saffron City. Kanto really has changed a lot." and Pikachu said "Pi Pikachu!" and Ash nodded and said "I know that regions do change over time. I am just surprised by the time it took for an underground city to develop."

Ash and Pikachu ran in the subway for some time and they saw many passer bys who were walking in the subway to reach different parts of Saffron City. Ash and Pikachu continued to run in the subway for some time and then Ash heard his phone ringing and then Ash took his phone and saw the call was from Goh.

Ash then accepted the call and then Ash heard Goh say "Ash, I am going to write my first examination tomorrow. I just called you as I wanted to know how you are doing." and Ash replied "I am doing well! I hope that you do your examinations excellently." Goh then said in a happy voice "Thanks, Ash! I feel better after hearing your words."

Ash then asked Goh "How is Chloe doing?" and then Goh said "She is doing well. She has attended the classes and so she will do well!" and Ash then said "That is good." Goh then said "I want to let you know that I was happy to travel with you. I got to experience many regions, make new friends, and so I am grateful."

Ash then said to Goh "Thanks! We did have many adventures together." and Goh then said "Alright, I need to study so good bye!" and then Ash said "Goodbye, Goh!" and then Goh cut the call. Ash then placed the phone in his pocket and ran along wih Pikachu.

Ash and Pikachu continued to run for some time and then they were seeing the end of the tunnel. Ash and Pikachu continued to run for some more time while loking at the various activitiees taking place in the tunnel. There were trainers battling, people sellig goods and other activities.

Ash and Pikachu soon reached the end of the tunnel where there was a stairs. Ash and Pikachu then climbed up the stairs and then walked and left the subway. Ash and Pikachu reached a grassland and then ran in the grassland for some time and saw that it was evening.

Ash and Pikachu soon reached Cerulean City where they saw that there were many fountains in the many parks present in the city. Ash and Pikachu walked in Cerulean City for some time for going to Cerulean Gym. Pikachu then jumped and sat on Ash's shoulder. Ash and Pikachu continued to walk in the streets and reached Cerulean Gym.

Ash turned right and walked in the path to reach the entrance. Ash soon reached the entrance and then walked through the entrance and entered Cerulean Gym. Ash and Pikachu then walked in the corridor and soon reached the swimming pool where they saw Misty who noticed them. Misty soon ran to reach Ash and Pikachu.

Ash saw Misty in her swimming dress and blushed on seeing her slim toned curvy body. Misty meanwhile was blushing on seeing Ash who was slightly taller than her and was muscular. Ash and Misty continued to blush and then they looked embarrased on their actions.

The silence was then broken by Ash who said "Misty, it is nice meeting you! Are your sisters in the home?" and Misty replied on hearing that "I am happy to meet you! My sisters are not in home. Congratulations on winning the World Coronation Series! Pikachu, Hi! You were amazing in the fight against Leon's Charizard." and Ash smiled on hearing that from Misty.

Pikachu said "Pikachupi Pika!" and then sat on Misty's shoulder and Misty smiled at Pikachu. Ash then said to Misty "Thank You! I am tired today so I would need a place to stay." and Misty smiled and replied "You can stay in the guest room." Ash then nodded and said "Thanks for that! Would you like to accompany me tomorrow to reach Pallet Town?"

Misty then knew the suggestion was sudden as she knew that she needed to have one of the gym trainers to be as her substitute. Ash was meanwhile nervous as to whether Misty would accept. Misty then said "I accept to travel with you as I would love to travel again with you."

Ash was happy to hear that and then Misty smiled and said "I can prepare dinner for you! You need not be worried, I now know how to prepare food!" and then Ash said "Alright, I will come to the kitchen wih you." Ash and Misty then walked on the side of the swimming pool and then reached the kitchen.

Ash and Misty soon reached the kitchen and then Misty went and started preparing food. Ash wentt and sat on the chair next to the dining table. Pikachu then jumped to run and see the Pokemons which Misty had. Ash knew that it was just him and Misty in the kitchen.

Ash continued to blush noticing how hot Misty was while Misty was making food for the both of them. Misty continued to prepare food for some time and then soon food was ready. Misty then took the vessel where the food was and the plates and then placed the plates near Ash and where she would sit.

Misty then placed the vessel in the center. Misty noticed that Ash was blushing heavily while looking at her and then Misty smiled. Misty then went and sat on the chair opposite to Ash and then Ash and Misty soon started to eat food. Ash was then eating food for some time along with Misty and both rapidly were eatg food and taking the food from the vessel and then eating the food.

Ash and Misty soon finished eating food. Ash and Misty then got up and then walked and left the kitchen. Misty walked and then Ash followed her and then Misty reached the living room. Ash and Misty then entered the living room and then Ash and Misty sat on the sofa.

Misty then switched on the television and then changed the channel to reach a channel where they show Pokemon Battles, Pokemon Contests, Pokemon Contest Spectaculars, and Pokemon Performances. Misty then saw the channel was showing the finals of a Pokemon Contest between Dawn and Drew.

Misty smiled and said "I like seeing the Pokemon Contests where Dawn takes part. Her contest moves are very helpful for those who take part in Pokemon battles. Like she uses Counter Shield and bot you and Leon use the technique." and Ash nodded and said "Dawn is really exceptional."

Ash saw the channel was showing Dawn who was waving to the audience and Ash found himself admiring Dawn. Ash then saw that they cahnnel was then showing Drew and then Ash knew that he wanted to see Drew lose to Dawn. Ash then said to Misty "I support Dawn as she is close to me. We both traveled in Sinnoh along with Brock."

Misty smiled and said "I did not know that. So who was the one who invented the Counter Shield technique?" and Ash replied "I was inspired by Dawn's technique in her Pokemon Contest to develop the Counter Shield technique. She is amazing in developing techniques." and then Misty nodded.

Meanwhile, Dawn was taking part in Sinnoh Grand Festival where Drew was present as her opponent. She saw May and a honey blonde girl whom she knew was a part of a famous idol duo along with Lisia, Serena, who came to visit her taking part in the finals cheering.

The referree said "This is the finals of the Sinnoh Grand Festival. Coordinators, you would be given a minute to release your Pokemons. The trainers who wins this commpetition would get the title of Top Coordinator!" and Dawn was excited and nervous abou this chance. She hoped she could win this finals.

As for Drew, he was smirking and standing, feeling ready for anything that could come his way. Dawn was the first to release her Pokemon. Dawn said "Piplup and Togekiss, go!" and Drew saw what Dawn released and then Drew said "Flygon and Roserade, I need you!"

Dawn said "Togekiss, Dazzling Gleam and Piplup, Bubble Beam!"

Piplup used Bubble Beam and released Bubble Beam while spinning in the air, creating a circle of bubbles around himself. The Bubbles were reflecting the Dazzling Gleam attack used by Togekiss which was then hitting Flygon and Roserade who were losing health due to the attack. Drew lost ten percent of his points.

Drew then said "Toxic and Sandstorm!"

Dawn said on hearing that "Air Slash and Whirlpool!"

Togekiss used Air Slash which broke the torrent of Sandstorm and Toxic and the sand fell to the ground. Pipup then used Whirlpool and Flygon and Roserade were caught in the whirlpool and were losing health due to the attack. Drew soon lost fifteen percent of his points. Drew noticed that he lost about quarter of his points and while Dawn smiled on seeing her progress.

Drew suddenly shouted "Roserade, Poison Jab on Togekiss!"

Roserade jumped gracefully and used Poison Jab on Togekiss who lost health and Dawn then lost eight percent of her points.

Dawn then said "Dazzling Gleam and Whirlpool!"

Piplup used Whirlpool, creating a torrent of water while Togekiss used Dazzling Gleam which reflected from the water and was hitting Roserade and Flygon causing them to lose some health. Drew then noticed that he lost some fifteen percent of his points. Drew gritted his teeth on seeing that he lost almost half of his points. Drew then thought about a strategy.

Drew then said "Toxic and Sandstorm!"

Roserade used Toxic while Flygon used Sandstorm and the sand in the sandstormm was coated with the poison. The sand hit Togekiss and Piplup and soon both the Pokemons were badly poisoned. Dawn noticed that she lost twenty percent of her points and that her points were rapidly reducing.

Dawn then said what she felt was her final move "Ice Beam and Whirlpool, Piplup and Dazzling Gleam, Togekiss!"

Piplup used Whirloppl and then used Ice Beam and the water in the torrent was very cold and had ice. Togekiss used Dazzling Glean which reflected from the water and hit Flygon and Roserade while Flygon and Roserade were hit by the Whirloppl and were losing health rapidly. Dawn's and Drew's Pokemons were rapidly losing health and Dawn and Drew were losing points and soon both of Drew's Pokemons fainted and Drew lost all of his points while Dawn had ten percent of her points remaining.

The announcer shouted "All of Drew's Pokemons fainted so Dawn has won the Sinnoh Grand Festival. That makes Dawn a Top Coordinator!"

Dawn heard the cheers of the audience and she smiled. Dawn then went to her Pokemons and said "Thank You Piplup and Togekiss! You did so well!" and Piplup and Togekiss were happy to hear their trainer's kind words. As for Drew, he was disappointed over what happened and he returned his Pokemons to the Pokeball and walked away from the field.

Dawn then saw Wallace approach with the Ribbon Cup and who said to her "This Ribbon Cup is for you, Top Coordinator Dawn!" and Dawn smiled on hearing that and said "Thank You, Wallace!". Dawn then released all her Pokemons from the Pokeballs. Dawn was soon given the Ribbon Cup and then Piplup jumped into the Ribbon Cup. Dawn and her Pokemons reveled in the cheers for the winner of the Sinnoh Grand Festival. Meanwhile, May and Serena were approahed by Drew.

Drew was pissed off for losing but he was even more pissed off for Ash winning the World Coronation Series. Drew then stated in an annoyed tone "I know you, Dawn, and Serena traveled with Ash but Ash is just a loser all the time even though he is the Monarch unlike you three who are winners. May, how can you credit him with shaping your personality? That is funny, I should be the one credited for that. I am just shocked he defeated Steven, let alone him winning against Leon."

Drew was immediately the center of attention in the room. Serena seemed shocked, while Max was enraged. No one, though, could have matched May's enraged stare at Drew.

May began to struggle in her competitions after she left Ash to travel with her opponents. She appeared to have lost it without Ash's help. In fact, she had not really accumulated enough ribbons during her trip to Johto to be eligible for the Grand Festival.

A late-night phone contact with Ash, on the other hand, seemed to fix what was wrong with her coordination after Johto. She was back and even better than ever after that night, realizing that Ash was always there for her, no matter wherever he went.

Drew didn't let up when May failed to make it to the big festival. After a win or a loss, he would verbally criticize her and succeed in making her feel bad about herself. And every time there was one individual he accused for her poor performance, and it was consistently the same...

Ash Ketchum

He would continuously blame Ash for having her battle too much as a trainer rather than a coordinator. While he wasn't criticizing May after the contest, he was always mentioning how Ash was horrible in some way.

May would always stand up for her closest buddy, but Drew never would back down. She became extremely sick of Drew after a few days into her adventure in Johto. She would no longer take his roses or his counsel while competing. She depended on Solidad and Ash's previous teachings for this.

May was staring daggers at Drew at the stadium. How can he come to her, uninvited, and continue to bash Ash, especially in such an important moment?

"Drew, you're the only loser I see around here! Not only you accompanied me and Solidad to every area we went after Johto, despite our explicit wishes, but you also had the nerve to come inside my house and disparage my best buddy! The person I love more than anybody else on the planet!" May yelled, releasing years of bottled-up rage and resentment at Drew. She was speaking honestly from her heart, not pausing to consider before she spoke. That being said, what she said was precisely how she felt. Serena was shocked to hear her words, she thought only she was the one to think of Ash that way but May also thought the same. She decided to let that thought slide for now.

"I offered you another chance to improve when we reunited in Hoenn midway through the year, but you wouldn't stop berating not just me, but Ash as well. You could never believe that I was superior to you...that he was superior to you." May kept going, her harsh, frigid tone unwavering.

"I wasn't berating you; I was simply attempting to assist you in becoming a better coordinator-" Drew attempted to speak up but was stopped off by May.

"Trying to assist me?! Is this what you mean by always telling me I'm a terrible coordinator?! That I'll never make it in the realm of coordinating?! But didn't I prove you wrong? When I won this year's Hoenn Grand Festival only a few days ago!"

"You're misconstruing what I said-" Drew was cut off once more.

"I am not Drew!" May's voice was venomous, scaring everyone in the area. "You want to understand how I know that is precisely what you said? Drew, it's because the words hurt! They'll live on in my memories forever! I believed you were my buddy, but you just ever wounded me."

Drew attempted yet another butt in, "However, May, I am your ally. In truth, I've always wished to be more than just a frie-"

"Are you fucking serious?!" May yelled in disbelief. Serena was taken aback at her filthy words, but chose to overlook it because this boy needed to be ripped out. "You really expect me to really like you after everything you've done? You're even more stupid than you appear! You've had your fill of second chances. Drew, whatever remained of our friendship is officially over."

Drew appeared to be about to cry as he processed her comments. Max, who had been suppressing his rage throughout the conversation, thought now was the time to speak up. "Drew, May is my sister, and anyone who isn't good to her has no right to be in her life. And as for Ash, he's like a brother to me, and I've had enough with you trashing him! You are not welcome in my home or anywhere around my sister!"

Drew had a few tears running down his cheeks by this point. In all honesty, he should have expected this. He was rarely courteous to anyone, including those he considered friends. But he absolutely refused to adapt and continued to act as an asshole since he didn't know any other way. He started to leave, but was stopped by May's lovely voice.

"Drew, please wait. Don't leave...yet." May said in the sweetest tone she could muster. Drew had a sliver of optimism flutter throughout his chest, only to be dashed by May's following words, "I desire that you see Ash's victory. I urge you to see how much superior he is to you."

Drew was in a lot of pain at this point, but he decided to stay since he wanted to spend as much time as possible with May before never speaking to her again. May took her phone and then took the last few minutes of Ash's battle against Leon and showed that to Drew.

When the referee pronounced Ash as the winner, May, Serena, and Max smiled on hearing that, with the exception of Drew. May smiled as she saw Drew's defeat in his eyes and turned to face him.

Drew was frozen in the stare of May's stunning sapphire eyes. They were exquisite even though they were loaded with venom and hatred. May stood staring at Drew, only turning away when Ash spoke in the phone. She turned around fast to find Ash, trophy in hand, shouting into a microphone.

May made a fist with one of her hands and placed it next to her heart as she listened to his lovely words. Ash was always good at making people feel special. While this was going on, she moved her other hand in her pocket and wrapped her hand around half of the Terracotta ribbon she always carried with her.

Drew remained motionless, silently watching. If he wasn't already broken, he was broken when he saw May in this time. Her cheeks were tinged slightly crimson, and she seemed happy than he'd ever before seen her.

Max approached Drew as Ash ended his statement and laid a hand on his shoulder, saying, "I think it's time that you leave."

His voice was commanding and threatening, leading Drew to renounce all prospect of reconciling with May for time being.

Meanwhile, Kenny approached Dawn in the corridor. "Dawn, we both know each other since a long time and we're really good friends, right?" Kenny said after taking a deep breath.

"Oh, yeah..." Dawn was perplexed about where Kenny was headed with this.

Hey inhaled deeply once more. "Dawn, I'm simply going to say it. I've had feelings for you for a long time and believe you could like me, so... willyoubemygirlfriend?" Kenny said the final bit rapidly. Dawn, despite this, heard his words.

She went slack-jawed after hearing the man's statements. Dawn knew Kenny had a great crush on her for a lot longer, but he'd not acted on it, which Dawn preferred.

Kenny was nothing more than a friend to her. To be honest, Dawn was bothered by Kenny's preoccupation with her. She had caught him staring at her from his house next door several times, and it worried her out because their windows to their rooms were near to one other. Despite this, Dawn and Kenny had been excellent friends for a long time, and she didn't want to lose that. But, after what Kenny had just said, it was clear that everything would never be the same among them again.

Kenny glanced at Dawn, desire and desperation flooding his eyes, awaiting for Dawn to speak, "Kenny I'm at a loss for words. I'm flattered... but... I'm not sure I agree. I just regard you as a friend and will always see you as such. I apologize."

Kenny's heart suddenly broke. He'd felt he had a fighting chance, but now all hope was gone. Kenny was filled with rage instead of sadness for some reason. He wanted someone to blame, and the only person he can think of at the time was...

Ash Ketchum

Kenny's face darkened and his voice became very low, "Isn't it Ash?"

"What, Kenny?" he said, his voice so low Dawn couldn't hear it.

Kenny had blown through his boiling pint by this point "Don't try to fool me! I asked, "Isn't that Ash?" That's why you dislike me; you already like him! Dawn, what's up? Is that all?"

Dawn was afraid by Kenny's hostile demeanor, but Dawn managed to talk through her crimson flush. "I-I'm not sure what you're talking about-"

Kenny cut Dawn off "Cut the nonsense. Anyone with two eyes and a brain can see you have feelings for Ash, even though you haven't seen him in... three years? How can you continue to like someone after all that time? I've been right by your side the entire time, and you really do not like me? Dawn, I adore you! You must love me back!"

Dawn was afraid at this point. She'd never seen Kenny like this before. "That's not it, Kenny... I really do not like you like that."

"I guess I'll just have to make you like me!" Kenny yelled angrily.

He yanked Dawn up and dragged her into a kiss. Dawn's eyes widened as she drew back and slapped Kenny across the face as hard as she could. This seems to snap Kenny out of his wrath and make him understand what he'd done. He glanced at Dawn, who was currently crying, and realized he'd made a huge mistake.

It did not take long for his gaze to return to Dawn.

"I'm sorry-" Dawn silenced Kenny with her palm.

Dawn whispered through her tears. "Don't. I believed you were my friend until you did this to me. How could you possibly? Simply because I do not wish to be your girlfriend? I cannot even look you in the eyes right now. Just...go."

"But-" Kenny tried but failed to butt in.

"GO!" Dawn screamed, her eyes welling up with tears of both dread and despair. Kenny felt that talking to her right now would be fruitless, so he chose to go.

Dawn ran to the stadium and then reached the stadium and sobbed on the seat after Kenny had departed. She did not think that the day could have turned out to be so bad. Dawn then turned and climbed down the steps to reach the row where May and Serena was and then walked to reach May and Serena.

Dawn then said to May "I cannot believe how terrible my day turned out to be. I was approached by Kenny to whom I was close to in childhood and he proposed to me while I had no feelings for him. I rejected him and then he tried to kiss me. I slapped him and then had him to leave."

May then went and hugged Dawn who was sobbing on her shoulder and said "Your day is not terrible. You became a Top Coordinator today! You need not let Kenny to ruin your day when you acheived so much! You did the right thing to slap Kenny."

Dawn then looked at May and said "Thank You for your words, he also claims that I have feelings for Ash even though that would not be the reason that I rejected him. I am hapy to have a friend like you who would help me in whatever ways you can help in." Serena then thought 'Another person has feelings for Ash? I guess that's understandable.'

May then smiled and said "Drew, a boy I knew, also behaved in a bad way. They are just jealous that we are close with Ash and claim that we have feelings for him. How can those assholes claim they know what we feel and think that we should love them? It is good that we dealt with them in a proper way!"

Dawn then asked May "Who is the girl who is next to you?" and then May replied "That is Serena, a girl who is a part of an idol duo in Hoenn along with Lisia. We both take part in Contest Spectaculars. Dawn, you can also try Contest Spectaculars, they are fun!"

Dawn nodded and said "One day, I might try them. Serena, nice to meet you!" and then Serena nodded and said "Hi Dawn, it is a pleasure to meet you! Both of you, May and Dawn, do not worry about boys like that, just ignore them and you will be happy."

Dawn then got a phone call and then saw it was from Ash. Dawn then picked up the phone and then Ash said "Dawn, congratulations on winning the Sinnoh Grand Festival and becoming a Top Coordinator!" Dawn smiled and said "Thank You, Ash, it makes me happy to hear that."

Ash then said to Dawn "Would you come to a party for our wins? It would be in Pallet Town. You can get to meet my mother and my old Pokemons also." and then Dawn replied "Yes, I will come!" Ash was happy that Dawn would come then said "Amazing then! Bye Dawn." and then Dawn said "Bye!"

Dawn then said to May and Serena "May and Serena, would you come to Pallet Town to celebrate the victory of the current Monarch, Ash?" and then May replied "Yes, I will definetly come!" and then Serena said "I also would want to meet Ash again. Dawn, I traveled with Ash in Kalos region." Dawn then said "That is interesting, we three have traveled with Ash at various times."

Meanwhile, Misty said to Ash "You are keeping a party in Pallet Town? I will also come." and then Ash said "Yes, you are welcome to the party. We can travel through Cerulean Cave and Rota to reach Indigo Plateau instead of traveling through Mount Moon which has barriers." and then Misty nodded.

Ash then said "Bye Misty, I am going to the bedroom." and then Misty said "Bye Ash, I am also going to the bedroom." Ash and Misty got up and then went and left the living room. Ash then walked to the guest bedroom and then Ash entered the guest bedroom. Ash went and then lay on the bed and then Ash slept, tired of his adventure.

Ash then got up in early morning to train his Pokemons. Ash then went and left his bedroom to see Misty training in the swimming pool with her swimming clothes and Ash was again blushing on looking at Misty. Misty looked at Ash and then said to Ash "Hi, looks like you got up early. I also get up early to train my Pokemons."

Ash nodded and said "I would be going to eat breakfast. Would you also be accompanying me to eat breakfast?" and then Misty said "Sure, I will come to eat breakfast with you." Misty then swam to the end of swimming pool while Ash walked and then Misty got out of the swimming pool. Ash and Misty then walked and entered the kitchen.

Ash then said "You made dinner so it is right that I make breakfast." and then Misty said "Fine then." Ash then went and prepared breakfast and then soon came with the plates and placed the plates near his side and Misty. Ash then came with the breakfast and placed the breakfast on Misty's plate and his plate.

Ash and Misty soon sat opposite to each other and then started eating breakfast. Ash and Misty finished eating breakfast in some time and then Ash and Misty got up and then left the kitchen. Ash and Misty walked and then Misty reached the pool where she jumped and swam.

Ash then said "I will train my Pokemons and wait for you to come with me in three hours. Be ready by then!" and then Misty nodded and said "I will!" Ash then walked, took his things from the guest bedroom and left the guest bedroom, and left the Cerulean Gym. Ash then stood in the lawn where he released his Pokemons.

Time passed and Ash trained his Pokemons along with himself while Misty also trained her Pokemons and herself. Misty soon got ready and then went and left Cerulean Gym. Ash then saw Misty in her usual clothes and then he said to Misty "Yes, we can go. Can you show me the way to go to Cerulean Cave?" and then Misty nodded and said "Sure, I will show you the route."

Ash and Misty walked in the streets of Cerulean City with Ash admiring the many fountains placed in the middle of the junctions and parks. Ash and Misty walked for some time and then Ash and Misty saw a mountain with a cave. Ash and Misty walked for some time to reach a river.

Ash and Misty then walked to reach a bridge that led to the cave and then Ash and Misty reached the bridge. Ash and Misty walked down the bridge for some time, with them looking at the water Pokemons in the river and then Ash and Misty crossed the bridge and then reached the other side. Ash and Misty walked to reach the entrance and then Ash and Misty walked and entered the cave.

Ash and Misty walked in the cvae for some time and then Ash decided to talk with Misty. Ash then asked Misty "How often do you come here?" and then Misty replied "I come here very often. There are very strong Pokemons here and so I train a lot here." and Ash nodded on hearing her answer.

Ash and Misty were walking in the cave and Ash found himself admiring Misty as he walked in the cave. Ash knew that both Misty and Dawn had grown to be attractive women and he admired both of them. Ash found himself wondering how May and Serena were.

Ash and Misty then saw a bur that was very fast and Misty remarked "That is Mewtwo, he often lives in this cave." and then Ash asked "Have you ever battled Mewtwo?" and then Misty answered "I have battled Mewtwo a few times but each time leaded to a loss but I am doing better over time."

Ash then said "Let us then have a double battle against Mewtwo!" and then Misty agreed and said "Sure, Ash, I can agree but it depends on Mewtwo." Ash and Misty then ran in the cave for some time rapidly. Ash and Misty soon reached Mewtwo who was looking at them. Ash then released Gengar and Misty released Gyarados.

Mewtwo then said "I am sure you both want a double battle, bring it on!"

Ash then said "Shadow Ball!"

Misty said "Crunch!"

Gengar used Shadow Ball which was going to hit Mewtwo and Mewtwo used Counter and then the attack was going to hit Gyarados. Gyarados then went underwater to dodge the attack. Gyarados then jumped to use Crunch and then Mewtwo used Counter before the atack could hit and Gyarados was going to feel a blow and then Gengar took the attack which did no damage.

Mewtwo then said "You both are good. Let us see how much your hearts are in sync to be able to battle me!"

Ash then said to Misty "Your Gyarados can take the Psychic attacks from Mewtwo and my Gengar would take the Fighting attacks."

Mewtwo then used Shadow Ball which was dodged by both Gyarados and Gengar. Mewtwo then used Psychic which was going to hit Gengar and Gyarados took the attack which did no damage. Mewtwo then used another Psychic and saw that the second time also, Gyarados took the attack instead of Gengar who took no damage and then used Crunch rapidly which hit Mewtwo who lost health.

Mewtwo then used Counter and then Gengar took the attack which did no damage. Gengar then used Shadow Ball rapidly which was going to make Mewtwo lose health and then Mewtwo took the attack and lost health. Mewtwo used Counter and Gengar took the attack which did no damage.

The battle went for some time with Shadow Ball only causing Gyarados and Gengar to lose health as both the Pokemons and Ash and Misty were cooperating well with each other. Mewtwo was losing health over time and soon Gengar and Gyarados were low in health.

Gengar then used Shadow Ball and then Mewtwo used Counter and made the attack to go towards Gyarados with double power and Gengar took the attack which did no damage. Gyarados then jumped and used Crunch and then Mewtwo lost health and fainted.

"We have defeated Mewtwo! Amazing job, Misty!" Ash said to Misty and then Misty said "You were also amazing!"

Ash then used a Max Revive on Mewtwo and then Mewtwo said to Ash and Misty "I would come to both of you if you need help. You both have proved yourselves worthy of my help." and then Mewtwo rested.

Ash and Misty walked in Cerulean Cave for some time while looking at the Zubats and Golbats present for some time and then Ash and Misty reched the end of Cerulean Cave. Ash and Misty then walked and left Cerulean Cave and then walked to see Rota Kingdom.

Ash and Misty then walked for some time in the grassland and then ran in the grassland. Ash and Misty continued to run and saw many Pokemons like Wormadam on trees, Mareep eating grass, Feebas swimming in the water near the river, and Pidgeys flying in the sky.

Ash smiled and said to Misty "You look more beautiful when you let your hair down." and Misty smiled on hearing that and then Misty let her hair down. Ash then noticed that Misty had long hair and he found her to be looking more beautiful when her hair was let loose.

Ash then said "Thanks for doing that!" and Misty smiled and said "You prefer me like that so I let my hair loose." Ash and Misty walked in Rota for quite some time and soon, Ash and Misty were tired. Ash then said "We need to stop now and make a camp." and then Misty nodded.

Ash and Misty were making a camp and in some time, Ash and Misty made a camp. Ash and Misty then entered the camp and then lay down in the camp. Ash then asked Misty as he was curious "Who are your current group of Pokemons that accompany you?"

Misty then replied "I have Gyarados, Eelektross from Unova, Crabominable from Alola, Corsola, Skeledirge which I got as a Fuecoco from Clavell, and Toedscruel from Socarrat Trail near Lake Casseroya in Paldea. We can eat the luch that we packed here." Ash then said "Yes, we can eat our lunch."

Ash and Misty then took the lunch from their bags and then ate the lunch for some time. Ash and Misty soon finished eating their lunch. Ah and Misty then lay in the camp for some time and then Ash and Misty got up and then Ash asked "Do you want to continue the journey?"

Misty answeered "Yes, let's go on." and then Ash and Misty left the camp and then packed up the camp and walked in the long path in Rota. Ash found himself admiring Misty as he walked, he was amazed that he was with her for some time but still he was admiring her. Ash and Misty continued to walk and they saw no town in sight as they walked.

Asht then said to Misty "We are going through a very isolated place in Kanto. There are many strong Pokemons which lead to trainers avoiding to travel in this area." and then Misty nodded and said "Yes, it does seem to be that trainers mostly avoid travelling in this place."

Ash and Misty continued to walk in Rota and noticed that they could soon reach Indigo Plateau. Ash and Misty continued to walk for some time and then they saw a group of Team Plasma grunts who were walking with their Pokemons by their side and then Ash and Misty were suspicious.

Ash then said to Misty in a serious tone "Let us follow the Team Plasma grunts, we could then find out what they are up to in Rota." and Misty nodded and then said "It looks like they are operating outside their their home region that is Unova. We need to stop their schemes!" Ash and Misty walked slowly and then they were following the Team Plasma grunts. Ash and Misty then tried to hear what the Team Plasma grunts were saying.

A Team Plasma grunt said in a happy tone "Today is time for war against Rota, when we win, we can liberate the Pokemons in Rota."

Another Team Plasma grunt then said "We will win! We have a huge base in Rota."

The third Team Plasma grunt said "I want to see the Rotans cry when we liberate Pokemons from Rotans."

The first Team Plasma grunt then said "We just say we want Pokemon liberation but that is a ruse for Ghetsis and Team Plasma being the only ones who own Pokemons."

Ash and Misty were following the Team Plasma grunts in the grassland for some time and they soon saw a Team Plasma base. Ash and Misty continued to walk for some time following the Team Plasma grunts and soon, Ash and Msty saw battalions emerging from the Team Plasma base with Pokemons.

Ash and Misty saw the Team Plasma grunts running to join the battalions and then Ash and Misty ran and continued to see more battalions emerge from the Team Plasma base and then they stopped. Ash and Misty ran along with the Team Plasma grunts and came to the last battalion.

Ash and Misty soon saw Rota's army emerge and then Misty released Gyarados while Ash released Gengar. Ash then said to Gengar "Dazzling Gleam!" and Misty said "Surf!" The moves hit the battalions who were shouting in pain from the moves and the pokemons of the battalions were fainting.

Gyarados and Gengar continued their attacks while the Rotan army was fighting with the Team Plasma grunts and then in some time, the Rotans were victorious. Ash and Misty then returned Gengar and Gyarados to the Pokeballs. Soon, the Team Plasma grunts who fainted were rounded up by the Rotan army and then taken to the jail.

A Rotan army soldier said to Ash and Misty "You have saved Rota, we will honor both of you!"

Ash and Misty then followed the Rotan army who were walking for some time and then came to the capital of Rota. Ash and Misty saw a podium in the center and the Rotan army walked to the direction of the podium and soon reached the podium. The Rotan army soldier said "You both, stand in the podium."

Ash and Misty went and then climbed the podium and soon came to the center of the podium. Ash and Misty saw Queen Ilene who smiled at them. The people of Rota were coming and gathering in front of the podium and soon the square was filled with people.

Queen Ilene said to them "I have something to honor you two with, Aura Guardian and Monarch Ash and Gym Leader Misty, it is a medal!" Queen ilene gave the medals to Ash and then Misty who smiled at being given the medals. Ash and Misty then kept the meddals in the bag.

Queen Ilene then said to Ash and Misty "Stay in my plalace for one day, you can then travel tomorrow!"

Ash nodded and said "Sure, I will stay in the palace." and then Misty nodded and said "I would also stay in the palace."

Queen Ilene then said "Cheer for the heroes of Rota!" and then the people of Rota were cheering for Ash and Misty. Ash and Misty smiled as they reveled in the cheers. Queen Ilene was then leaving and then Ash and Misty followed Queen Ilene as she left the podium and walked to the palace.

Ash and Misty followed Queen Ilene for some time and they saw a palace in the distance. Ash and Misty continued to walk as they saw the people in the capital smile at them as they walked. Ash then said "We both are heroes of Rota now, I am so happy to be honored." and then Misty nodded and said "I am also happy to be honored."

Ash and Misty continued to walk for some time and the palace was becoming nearer. Ash and Misty soon reached the entrance of the palace and then the guards opened the gate and said "Welcome, Queen Ilene, hero Ash and hero Misty." and Ash and Misty were happy to be called heroes.

Ash and Misty entered though the gates and followed Queen Ilene as they walked to reach the entrance which was an huge arch. Ash and Misty walked through the arch to reach a large hall. Ash and Misty continued to follow Queen ilene and soon Ash and Misty reached the stairs.

Ash and Misty climbed the stairs along with Queen ilene for some time and then they saw as the floors passed and soon they came to the topmost floor. Ash and Misty soon walked in the floor and then Queen Ilene showed a room and said "This room is for you both."

Ash and Misty were blushing a lot and said "We both are not a couple." and Queen Ilene said "You both behave like a couple." and Ash and Misty were blushing and wondering why many think that the both were a couple. Queen Ilene then said "You both have not admitted your feelings to each other. Fine, I will show the other room for Misty."

Ash then followed Queen Ilene and Misty and then reached the next room. Queen Ielenthen said to Misty "This room is for you." Ash and Misty then walked and entered the room and Queen Ilene remarked "Admit your feelings to each other soon, otherwise someone might try to take you both away from each other."

Ash and Misty then sat on the bed and saw Queen Ilene leave. Ash and Misty then sat and looked at each other's eyes for ome time, admiring each other, and then Ash and Misty were blushing on noticing what they two were doing with each other. Ash then said "Misty, I am leaving to rest!"

Misty then said to Ash "Fine then, we both need to rest for some time." Ash then got up and left Misty's room. Ash soon reached his room and then Ash lay in his bed, resting and Misty lay in her bed, resting. Ash and Misty continued to rest for some time on their beds.

Meanwhile, May was in Petalburg City and she was watching a telecast of Ash winning against Leon. His face looked much less childlike, and he was significantly taller. He towered above Mr. Goodshow, and May, who had previously seen the guy, estimated Ash's height to be roughly 6'4". If she was absolutely honest, she thought Ash was quite attractive; she'd always thought he was a decent looking guy, but this was something more, something more, it seemed. And the longer she watched him, the stronger her longing grew; the more she desired to see him again.

May was so preoccupied with her own thoughts that she didn't notice Max tap her on the shoulder. When Max started speaking, she snapped back to reality. "Hey, May, how are you? You're a little disoriented.".

May blushed at her thoughts and brushed them away before saying, "Yeah, Max, I-I'm good." I'm really overjoyed that Ash is one step closer to realizing his ambition!"

Max just seems to accept the response because he felt the same way, but Norman and Caroline had been watching May the entire time. It was evident what she was thinking, and both parents' cheeks were plastered with enormous smirks as a result.

Caroline moved up to May and sat next to her on the couch as Max exited the family room to tell his buddies that his "big bro" had won the World Coronation Series.

"You must be overjoyed, May." You win your first Grand Festival in Hoenn, and your best friend, Ash, wins a league the next day. That was a wonderful two days, in my opinion." Caroline smiled as she spoke.

"You may repeat that! Of course, I'm thrilled that I won, but I can't help but be equally happier that Ash is one step closer to realizing his dream." May declared, her broad grin never leaving her face.

Caroline's smile faded for a time as she considered how to phrase what she would say next. "I'm very sorry about Drew, honey." I knew you said he was cruel to you and would gossip about Ash, but I had no idea."

May shrugged and smiled sadly. "It's really okay, mum. Maybe I was spoiled by the way Ash always treated me. I mean, Drew was probably trying to help me as well, but...well, he sucked at it."

"And he's a jerk." Caroline stated solemnly before both mother and daughter burst out laughing.

"You may repeat that. I don't need a toxic friend like him when I have people like Solidad here who actually care about me." May motioned to her dear friend, who was sitting to the right of both the two women in a chair. "I can't believe Drew was ready to tell me he wants to be more than buddies. I honestly don't like him as a buddy!"

Caroline began to talk with a sneer on her face, "I don't blame you. And, furthermore, I'm convinced your heart belongs to someone else..."

"What do you mean-" May asked her mother, puzzled. May was interrupted by her mother, who pointed to the television, which had an image of Ash with the words 'Monarch' written beneath it.

May's face flushed rapidly as she recognized her mother's suggestion and remembered her recent thoughts about Ash.

May spoke out, albeit timidly, saying, "Mom, I-I don't like Ash...like that." He's my best friend, and that's all there is to it..." May wasn't sure what she felt for her raven-haired buddy, despite what she'd said. If she was being completely honest, she hadn't felt certain in a long time.

Caroline only smirked at her daughter, saying, "Whatever you say, sweetie." Just keep in mind that folks like Ash are rare to come by in this world. Someone will take him if you don't do it first."

May's face flushed bright crimson, and a sense of worry washed over her when she thought about losing Ash to another woman. Her mother clearly thought the two belonged together. May chose to remain silent because she was conflicted about her feelings.

"After his victory, he'll most likely return to Pallet." I believe you should pay him a visit and applaud him in person. I'll leave you to ponder it. Let's go make dinner for tonight, Norman and Solidad." Caroline then left, accompanied by her husband and Solidad.

May didn't move an inch, content to be immersed in her thoughts. Ash was a one-of-a-kind individual, and she had never encountered anybody as nice, kind, and warm-hearted as him. And, yes, she'd developed a pretty huge crush on him on their voyage together, but because of the amount of time they'd spent apart, she fought so hard to push it away because they were no longer traveling together. At one point, she'd even convinced herself that she'd succeeded... or that she had.

May was considering who would actually be there for her and make her feel special after her recent outburst at Drew. People who made her joyful simply by being in her presence. People who looked after her without demanding anything in return. And at the end, she only could think of one individual who completely suited this description...

Ash.

"Ugh, I'm so perplexed!" In frustration, May exclaimed. Although her emotions were jumbled at the time, she knew one thing for certain...she really wanted to see Ash again.

May shoved the ideas out of her head for such time being before choosing to do something that would make her happy, regardless of how conflicted she felt about her feelings.

May smiled broadly as she spoke to herself, removing the Terracotta ribbon from her pocket and inspecting it, "Well... looks like I'm traveling to Pallet Town."

Meanwhile, Misty got up from her bed. Misty then went and left her room and walked to reach Ash's room. Misty then entered Ash's room and saw that Ash was awake. Misty then went to Ash and then Ash said "You can sit on the bed with me." an then Misty blushed and then went and sat on the bed.

Ash then said to Misty "Now, it is evening, we can explore the palace for some time before going to dinner." and Misty nodded and said "Yes, let us go together!" Ash and Misty got up from the bed and then walked and left the room. Ash and Misty then walked in the long corridor where they saw many bedrooms.

Misty smiled and said to Ash "I remember when you were shorter then me but now you are slightly taller than me." Ash nodded and saw that he was indeed taller than Misty by two inches. Ash smiled and said "You are indeed very tall for a woman. I say, you look more beautiful than Elesa who is a supermodel and taller then her."

Misty was blushing hard on hearing that. She knew that what Ash said was indeed true, but to hear that from him made her to blush. Misty smiled and said "Thanks for the compliments! I do not do modelling though as I am not interested in modelling. I prefer being a battler. Ash, you look more muscular than Bruno and you are so handsome."

This time, it was Ash who blushed on hearing those words from Misty which he knew was true. Ash then smiled and said "Thank You, Misty! We both are indeed very attractive, but Dawn is also attractive." Ash said that in the end to tease Misty. Misty smiled and said "Yes, Dawn is also beautiful. I am not jealous of others though."

Ash said to Misty "That is because you are a good person by heart who is not jealous about the aspects of others. I like having you as a buddy." Misty smiled and said on hearing that "I also love having you as a buddy. You are so kind and selfless as a person."

Queen Ilene then came and then said to Ash and Misty "You both are romancing each other while I am not seeing! You could do the same while I am watching, I would not mind." and then Ash and Misty were blushing hard at hearing Queen Ilene tease them again.

Ash and Misty then said "We do not like each other that way, we are just buddies who appreciate the good qualities of each other." Queen Ilene then said to the both "I know you both would respond in a similar way, now the feast is ready for you two. Come soon for the feast."

Ash then said "I will come soon for the feast!" and then Misty nodded and said "I will also come for the feast!" Ash and Misty then followed Queen Ilene and admired the pillars and the architecture of the palace. Ash and Misty soon reached the place where there would be a feast and then saw Queen Ilene go to the end.

Queen Ilene said "You both will sit opposite to each other next to me in the long table." and then Ash and Misty walked and reached the end and then sat next to Queen Ilene opposite to each other. Ash and Misty saw the food being served and soon were eating the food rapidly. Ash and Misty soon finished eating the food rapidly in some time.

Ash then asked "Could I get more food?" and Misty also asked "Can I get more food?" and then Queen ilene said "Sure, you can!" Ash and Misty then were given a second serving of food and then ate the food rapidly. Ash and Misty then got a third serving and a fourth serving which they ate and then they felt full.

Queen Ilene then said "You both have eaten a lot! How do you two make sure that you two are fit usually?" and then Ash answered "We both do tough training to keep us fit." an then Queen Ilene nodded on hearing that as the answer. Ash and Misty then got up and walked and left the hall. Ash and Misty walked for some time, and then Ash and Misty reached their rooms. Ash and Misty walked and entered their rooms and then Ash and Misty lay on the bed and slept.

Ash and Misty then got up in the morning, got ready for the day, and packed their things. Ash and Misty then went and left the rooms and saw each other. Ash and Misty then walked next to each other for some time and then reached the stairs. Ash and Misty then climbed down the stairs to reach the hall.

Ash and Misty walked and soon left the hall and saw Queen Ilene who was there. She then said "Goodbye heroes, Ash and Misty!" and Ash and Misty smiled. Ash and Misty then said "Goodbye!" and then Ash and Misty walked to reach the exit of the place and then Ash and Misty left the palace.

Ash and Misty walked in the streets of the capital city for some time while looking at the inhabitants who were happy as they did various things. Ash and Misty soon left the capital and then walked for some time where they reached a grassland. Ash and Misty then released their Pokemons and trained them hard for quite some time.

Ash and Misty were soon tired of training their Pokemons hard and then sat opposite to each other and ate their breakfast which was berries. Ash and Misty then got up, returned their Pokemons except for Pikachu to the Pokeball and then walked for some time.

Ash and Misty continued to walk for some time along with Pikachu and they saw Indigo Plateau becoming closer as they walked. Ash and Misty soon reached a series of steps on a mountain and then Ash and Misty climbed up the stairs for some time and there were many stairs.

Ash and Misty were climbing the the path of stairs for quite some time and then they finished climbing the stairs and reached Indigo Plateau. Ash and Misty then walked for some time in Indigo Plateau and then Ash and Misty reached a Pokemon Center. Ash and Misty then went and entered the Pokemon Center.

Ash and Misty then saw Paul approach them and say "Misty, you were appointed as an Elite Four member." and Misty smiled and said "I will accept the offer. Who told you about my appointment?" Paul then answered "Lorelei, the outgoing Elite Four member informed me about that."

Ash then said "Congratulations, Misty for joining the Kanto Elite Four!" and then Misty smiled and said "You are welcome, Ash!" Ash and Misty then saw Brock who was there and then Brock ran to them and said "Hi, Ash, Misty, and Paul!" and then Ash said "Hi, Brock!" Misty said "Hi, I am happy to see that you are doing well!" and Paul said "Hi!"