Warning: Some content might contain spoilers for the Pokemon XY and Z anime because I looked ahead. Please read at your own risk. Also, depending how the rest of the Kalos League (as most of this is what I think will come out of the rest of the season), I might go back and change some things in this chapter later, but it won't affect the rest of the fanfic. Hope you enjoy the first chapter!


Charizard flew his trainer and teammates to the top of Mt. Silver. Doing something like would usually be hard or impossible for any normal Charizard due to the extreme altitude, vicious snowstorms, and the fact that having to carry a human and five other Pokemon would be too heavy, but Ash's Charizard was no normal Charizard. A task like that was nothing to him as he has done it many times throughout the years, along with the snowstorms being ineffective due to his powerful flame and his incredible body and strength made carrying Ash and his other Pokemon pretty easy. Ash and the other Pokemon got off the dragon, and Ash happily thanked him. Going through the snowy area, they finally came across their home, a giant mountain with a wide and long crater on top that barely extended over the clouds, with the cave entrance against the side of the mountain.

(plays DK Isle from Donkey Kong 64)

Inside the cave was a narrow passageway that led to the beautiful interior of the crater, which had many waterfalls leading to a giant pool of water in the middle, healthy shades of grass with flowers surrounding the pool, many trees full of fruits and berries, rocky cliffs and mountains around the sides, and cave holes against the walls of the cliffs and mountains. All around residing the beautiful area were the rest of Ash's Pokemon that he had caught throughout his many journeys in the past. Ash looked up to the top of the crater where his bird Pokemon flew as the sunlight of the setting sun clipped their wings, and then looked down to the pool where his Water Pokemon swam.

Sceptile, Greninja, Charizard, Lucario, and Infernape went off to do their own activities as Ash with Pikachu on his shoulder walked down to the pool. At the edge of the pool, Pikachu jumped off his trainer's shoulder and started drinking some water while Ash took off his hood and looked at his reflection on the water's surface. He looked a lot different than the 10-year old he was before he went off the treacherous mountain. He was tall and muscular, in fact, his figure, size, and muscles were the exact same as Bruno of the Elite Four. He still retained his raven-dark hair that was still kept in the same spiked and messy style it was when he started his first journey, albeit, perhaps a bit longer. He also still had his lightning-shaped birthmarks on his cheeks and his brown eyes that still had that adventurous shine in them, though one thing different about Ash's face was a small vertical scar beneath his left eye, probably obtained from the many years of training himself with his Pokemon. On top of his head was a red and white Pokeball-style cap, the same one he wore in his Kalos journey. While Ash valued all his hats, this one just seems to precious to him for some reason, like it was something that reminded him of someone special, though Ash could just never know why. Besides his hat, Ash wore nothing but ripped light gray pants supported by a black cloth belt and a spiked Mega Bracelet on his left wrist. When he first traveled up Mt. Silver years ago, Ash chose this style of clothing as being a trainer who prefers to put himself in equal terms with his Pokemon, Ash felt it would help him connect with his Pokemon more, such as whenever he trains himself with his Pokemon, he's just as armorless as them. After staring at his reflection, Ash sighed and said, "I sure have changed over the years."

Hearing this, Pikachu stopped drinking, looked up to his trainer, and said, "Pika Pi, pi pikachu?"

Ash chuckled, bent down to Pikachu, and started scratching the fur on his head and said, "Don't worry buddy, I'm fine. It's just that, well..." Ash paused for a bit, but then continued on, "it's kinda hard to believe eight years have gone by since we all first settled here."

"Eight years..." Ash mentally repeated to myself. Ash stood back up from his bent position and stretched out a little bit, slightly flexing his giant muscles. He then turned around and started making his way back out of the interior of the crater, with "Eight years." still repeating inside his head as Pikachu followed behind him, curious of what his trainer is doing.

(music stops playing)

Pikachu followed Ash outside and up to his trainer's favorite spot of Mt. Silver, the highest peak of the central mountain, which wasn't too far from the mountain where he, his trainer, and all the other Pokemon resided. This peak was so high, both of the entirety of the Kanto and Johto regions were visible. Pikachu found Ash sitting on the flat peak, looking off to the direction of their former home, Pallet Town. The little electric mouse ran up to his trainer, wanting to help out with anything that could be on Ash's mind right now.

"Pika Pi? Pikachu pi pika?"

Ash then turned to his best friend. "Pikachu, I told you I'm fine. I'm just... remembering something right now..."

Ash then continued to look toward Pallet Town, remembering the reason why he and his Pokemon left.

Flashback - 8 years ago

(plays Route 1 from Pokemon (Anime))

Ash and Pikachu were happily making their way back to Pallet Town after being dropped off at the airport. The two had just finished their Kalos journey, where they met many friends and took part in thousands of fun and invigorating adventures. Even though Ash did not win the Lumiose Conference due to Team Flare interfering with the finals match between him and Alain at the last second so they can start their plan to take over the region with the power of Zygarde, he didn't mind at all knowing he was able to protect the land and all the people and Pokemon on it from certain demise. Besides, before the interference, he at least made it to the Top 2, the highest he's ever been in a Pokemon League. He also made a lot of great friends in his journey, something Ash could never ask for more in any journey. There was also something else Ash was now looking forward to after overhearing about it on the plane, the Ultimate Championship Tournament. This special tournament is only held every four years at Driftveil City, and it's been said that it's way more challenging than any other league tournament. Only the best of the best Pokemon Trainers compete and only the best above the rest wins, and Ash was planning to train his Pokemon non-stop for when the tournament starts in the next two weeks, but right now, Ash just wanted to see his mom, Oak, and all his old Pokemon again. Walking up a path on a hill, Ash spotted his hometown in a far distance from the top.

"There it is Pikachu! Pallet Town!"

"Pi pikachu pi!"

"I bet mom is just waiting for us at home. Can't wait to see her again!"

"Pikachu Pika Pi!"

Ash then took out his five Pokeballs which contained the five Pokemon friends he met in the Kalos region: Greninja, Talonflame, Hawlucha, Goodra (whom Keanan allowed to go with Ash instead of staying at the Wetlands), and Noivern. The young trainer threw the capsules into the air, releasing the five Kalos Pokemon, with Pikachu joining them. Upon release, they all curiously looked around the new region. The air and atmosphere was a lot different than Kalos. Ash then happily turned to his Pokemon and said, "Guys, even though we didn't win the league, I just want to let you all know I had an amazing time at Kalos with all of you! We've made so many fun memories together and you've all proven yourselves to be great and awesome Pokemon that a trainer like me couldn't be more thankful for! I'm extremely proud of all the effort and hard work you all put into the league for me and needless to say, I love you guys a lot!"

Touched by Ash's kind words, all six Pokemon joyfully jumped up and landed on their trainer with a big hug, happy to have such an extremely thoughtful, caring, and optimistic trainer, though their combined weight slightly crushed Ash a bit, but he didn't mind as he just laughed and hugged them all back. When they were all done hugging each other, they all got back up from the ground and Ash pointed towards Pallet Town and said, "See that town down there? That's my home, Pallet Town!," Ash then pointed to Professor Oak's Laboratory in the distance. "And that's Professor Oak's Lab over there! Professor Oak takes care of all my other Pokemon that I've caught at other regions in my previous journeys, and I can't wait for you guys to meet them all!" The Kalos Pokemon nodded in agreement as Pikachu jumped up with a "Pika pika," excited to his old friends again. Ash then pointed down to a small blue house with a red roof just a couple miles away from Oak's Lab. "Over down there is my house and that's where my mom lives, and I know you're all going to love to meet her too! She's probably really anxious to see us, so let's see her first, then we can go to the lab," Ash then grew a mischievous grin on his face. "Let's race down there! Last one there is a rotten Exeggcute," Ash then suddenly took off ahead of his Pokemon, "and trainer gets headstart!" His Pokemon followed behind him, trying to get ahead.

Ash was laughing as he raced his Pokemon. Goodra was the first to pass, using his massive body to purposely block Ash's path. Talonflame flew over the both of them, mockingly laughing at them as he did, but he then was grounded by Greninja, who was using his acrobatic jumping capabilities to get ahead, only to be caught off-guard when Hawlucha flew on his head and forcefully jumped off, using the momentum to gain some extra speed in the air while knocking Greninja to the ground. Hawlucha happily laughed, feeling victory is close, until Noivern came and did the same thing he did to Greninja on him. As Hawlucha got up, he saw Noivern overconfidently cheer to himself, causing Hawlucha to happily sigh, proud of how far the Soundwave Pokemon grew up since it was a Noibat. Noivern was so excited though, he didn't see the tree in his way in time due to having his eyes closed, causing him to hit it and Ash, Greninja, Talonflame, Hawlucha, and Goodra to pass him. Noivern quickly regained consciousness and flew towards them, not too far behind.

"Looks like I'm gonna win!" Ash cheered to himself, having to have regained the lead.

Pikachu, however, easily passed all six of them using Quick Attack, laughing at all of them when he was now several feet away from them.

"Hey, no using moves! That's cheating!" Ash yelled, though Pikachu didn't listen. Eventually, everyone else caught up with Pikachu and the race became just a friendly run, as Ash and his Pokemon were content of having each other around and being able to have fun.

(music stops playing)

Moments later, Noivern stopped in his tracks. Being a Soundwave Pokemon, he had superhuman hearing capabilities, and he heard... something... somewhere... close by... Noivern looked around, curious of where he heard that sound and what is it. All the others saw Noivern and stopped in their tracks and Ash started walking towards Noivern.

"Noivern, are you alright buddy?"

Noivern didn't respond, still focusing on trying to figure out where that sound came from and what was it. Just then, he heard another sound from something else... and for some reason, he could hear it getting closer... and closer... and it was heading for Ash! Noivern quickly tackled his trainer to the ground, narrowly avoiding an arrow aimed for Ash's head that ended up hitting a tree. Ash's other Pokemon stared surprised at the sudden arrow as Ash and Noivern got up.

"What's going on?!" Ash questioned at loud, shocked and frightened of almost getting struck by an arrow.

Suddenly, they all heard a new voice say, "You're Ash Ketchum, right?"

(plays Final Battle Against Ganon (starts at 0:10) from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time)

The source of the voice then revealed himself to Ash and his Pokemon. It was a man dressed in complete black clothing, silver hair, and he wore a pair of shades too. On his back was a quiver of arrows and he held a bow in his right hand. He also had an unsheathed sword hanged on the left of his belt. Ash's Pokemon stood defensively in front of their trainer, knowing he was the one who fired the arrow towards Ash.

"Yes," Ash said, answering the question, "but who are you?"

The new man didn't respond, instead, he took out a red arrow from his quiver and fired it towards Ash. Pikachu used Electro Ball to block the arrow, causing an explosion that pushed Ash and his Pokemon back, though still on their feet. Ash was suddenly kicked from behind, causing him to fall to the ground. Lifting himself with his hands, Ash turned to see who kicked him, seeing a woman dressed similarly to the man, only with dark hair to match her clothes. She unsheathed her sword and pointed it to Ash's face.

"We've detected that you are capable of using Aura, and for that, you must die." threatened the woman before she was struck down by Pikachu's Thunderbolt, sending her to her knee.

Ash got back up as his Pokemon surrounded him in case there were any more attacks from the bow and sword-armed people. Ash was surprised. How did these people know he could use Aura? He himself haven't used it in while, he almost forgot himself. "How did you guys know?"

"It's simple," the man said, causing Ash to turn back to him, seeing some kind of radar device, "and according to these wavelengths, it looks like you have a lot of it."

"I-I-I do?"

"Indeed, enough to become a full-fledged Aura Guardian even. And all the more of a reason to end your life." The man took out his sword and leapt towards Ash with a downward strike, but Greninja deflected him away with Cut.

"Why is that a good reason to kill me?!" Ash angrily demanded.

"You Aura Users and Guardians are nothing but pure evil, causing havoc and turmoil wherever you and your Pokemon go!"

"That's not true! Even though I don't use my Aura often, I know Aura Guardians are not evil! Sir Aaron and his Lucario for example..."

"Almost caused the end of the Tree of Beginning due to their involvement in some sort of crisis in two different time eras," said the woman as she got up, recovered from Pikachu's Thunderbolt. "And if I recall, I believe you and your Pokemon also almost caused an end to the Tree of Beginning due to being apart of the same crisis Sir Aaron's Lucario was."

Ash furiously gritted his teeth. These jerks just show up attacking him and his Pokemon, accusing the kind of people Ash is technically a part of of being nothing but villains who bring disaster to others. They have no right being so discriminatory like that!

"Even if you don't plan to become an Aura Guardian yourself, we can never be too sure. Who knows if you decide to change your mind in the future." added the woman. This frustrated Ash even more as now they were thinking they knew everything. The woman then raised her sword and said, "Goodbye Ash Ketchum." As soon she said that, a sudden rainstorm started.

(plays Swipe of Sword from Devil May Cry 4)

The woman swung her sword down to Ash, but Pikachu used Iron Tail to block the attack from Ash as Hawlucha ran in and used Karate Chop on the woman's gut, pushing her back, but not down. Goodra grabbed the man with his long antennas and threw him to the woman, though he quickly regained his composure in midair and safely landed beside the woman, both drawing their swords. Ash's Pokemon stood around their trainer, ready to fight, and Ash looked at them and then the sword-wielding people. He knew he has no other choice to fight back. Their lives were on the line, they're too far away from Pallet Town to get help, and running to the innocent town would only cause more chaos anyway. There's no running away now. Ash then called out to his new enemies, "I hope you all know it's 7 versus 2 right now!"

"That may be." said the man before he and the woman revealed more weapons like daggers and even pistols under their jackets.

"But we're better armed." finished the woman.

Ash clenched his fists. This was gonna be some fight, one that's far, far different than any he's had in any of his journeys. "Whatever you all do, please be careful." Ash whispered to his Pokemon, hoping they won't get too seriously injured in this battle.

Pikachu, Greninja, and Goodra stepped forward and fired Thunderbolt, Water Shuriken, and Dragon Pulse respectively to the two humans, but very surprisingly, the both of them easily deflected away the projectile attacks with their swords. Noivern flew upward and tried Boomburst, but the man stepped forward with a staff and twirled it in the direction of the attack, effectively shielding the sound-based attack. Ash gritted his teeth again. Obviously, ranged combat won't work with these guys. The woman took out a landmine and slid to Ash and his Pokemon, causing them all to split before it went out, though they were still knocked to the ground by the force of the explosion. Both the man and woman then ran towards Ash with their swords, only to be interfered by Hawlucha and Noivern respectively attacking them with High Jump Kick and Dragon Claw. Hawlucha tried another High Jump Kick towards the man, but he caught the luchador bird's knee in time and forcefully slammed him to the ground and then following up with a horrible jab from his staff to Hawlucha's gut, knocking the poor Pokemon out. Noivern saw all this and was now enraged at the man for hurting Hawlucha like that. He instantly took his focus off the woman and started flying towards the man while roaring, but this was a mistake as the woman grabbed him by the neck with her whip and pulled him towards her. She then pulled the whip tighter, causing Noivern to suffocate, and just when he was about to lose all his air, the woman unwrapped the whip, leaving Noivern on the ground trying to regain his breath. This was all just the woman's plan though as now with the soundwave Pokemon completely vulnerable, she was able to give it a vicious lash on Noivern's back with the whip, knocking him out. Goodra got up from the explosion in time to see the man and woman having defeated two of his friends, angering Goodra enough to wrap both of them within him antennas with the intent of crushing them. Unfortunately for the dragon, the man and the woman sprayed some type of gas into his eyes, causing him to let go as he weld his eyes in pain. The man then took out an ice bomb and stuck it on Goodra's chest. The bomb exploded, leaving a Goodra completely covered in a thick layer of ice minus his head, and the poor dragon was knocked out. The woman then saw Greninja and Talonflame getting up from the explosion, causing her to grin and nod to the man. The man nodded back and he took out his pistol and pointed to Goodra's face. Greninja and Talonflame saw this, provoking them to charge in towards their enemies without thinking. Both the man and woman evilly smirked, pleased their plan to make them vulnerable worked. Without notice, the woman took out her claw grappling hook and fired it to Talonflame. The claw hook grabbed hold of Talonflame's torso and pulled him back to the woman where she then sent the hook up to the sky, causing Talonflame to get struck by a strong bolt of lightning. The claw then let go of its grip on Talonflame, causing him to fall to the ground. Meanwhile, Greninja was dueling with the man's daggers with Cut, before leaping to the air and charging down to him with Aerial Ace, though when he got close, the man quickly threw a large net at Greninja, trapping him inside. The man took out a detonator and pressed a button, causing the net to electrocute Greninja with a powerful field of electricity, not like any electric attack he has taken before. Unable to free himself, Greninja was forced to take the pain until it was over, severely weakened. Greninja tried to get back up his feet, but ultimately failed and fell to the ground. The only Pokemon left was Pikachu, who had now just gotten up from the landmine explosion. He looked at all his fallen comrades and became furious. These villains have done it now; they severely injured his friends, tried to kill his trainer, he has had it! Pikachu jumped to the air and activated an attack he hasn't used in a while: Volt Tackle. Pikachu charged towards the two humans, not holding anything back, but the man and woman both pressed a button on the side of their shades, activating a large and strong flash that blinded Pikachu, causing him to cancel the attack and fall to the ground next to them, though he wasn't done yet. He's not going to let them hurt his best friend! Pikachu then attacked with Iron Tail, but the two only countered with their swords again until the woman jumped up and kicked Pikachu, sending him back down, but he quickly got back out and started firing multiple Electro Balls at them, but they were either avoided or deflected away with their swords. Pikachu switched to Quick Attack and started circling around them in hopes of landing a surprise hit, but the man countered this by placing a unique mine on the ground that instead of exploding, caused an earthquake to the area, sending Pikachu off his feet, cancelling the attack. With one last option, Pikachu jumped to the air to absorb a stray lightning bolt's electric energy (just like he did to a flock of Spearow when he first met Ash) and fired an extremely powerful Thunderbolt to the two villains. The man and woman fell to their knees, but they were not through yet, so Pikachu still kept on with the attack, not stopping until he sees them going down. Unfortunately for Pikachu, no matter how much power he had, it for some reason wasn't enough as eventually, the man and woman were getting back up to their feet despite the attack still going on, so Pikachu still kept going until he started to feel weak due to having used up an extreme amount of electricity in one go. Tired, Pikachu was forced to stop the attack as he fell to his knees, panting, and now that he was vulnerable, the man took out his staff, ran towards Pikachu, and swung it painfully to Pikachu's head, knocking him out.

(music stops playing)

"All too easy." remarked the woman as she walked to the man's side while staring at all the downed Pokemon.

"Now there's just him." stated the man, indicating towards Ash.

After he said that, Ash was just now getting back up from the landmine explosion and upon seeing all his Pokemon defeated, he was saddened and horrified. He had failed to protect them when they risked their lives to protect him. Ash then started crying as he stayed on his knee. "No... How could I let this happen?!"

"Just a regular doing of an Aura user; putting danger to the lives of others," mocked the woman as she and the man walked towards Ash with their swords. "You brought this to yourself."

"Brought this to myself? Brought this to myself?! You guys are the jerks who attacked me and my Pokemon out of nowhere! We didn't even know you guys, we were just having a good day, living our lives, and then you two came!"

"We told you kid, we're only stopping you Aura users from causing any more harm to our world. We're only doing the good people of the world a favor." said the man.

"My Pokemon have done nothing to you guys, yet you two attacked them in cold blood!"

"An Aura User's Pokemon is no more innocent than their trainer. And we will finish them off after we finish you off." said the woman.

The man approached Ash and brought up his sword. He then swung it down towards Ash's head.

"NO!"

(plays Battle of the Twin Demons from Okami)

With a blink of the eye, Ash managed to catch the sword within his hand, the blade not even causing any harm to his palm. Ash looked at his hand to see it pulsing with blue energy, his Aura! Ash then saw the same for his other hand too. The young trainer was just as surprised as his adversaries, he could feel his Aura surging through his entire body, something he hasn't felt since he helped Sir Aaron's Lucario revive the Tree of Beginning before being pushed away. Now feeling his Aura's power within, Ash tightened his grip on the man's sword, breaking the blade and causing the man to recoil as stood up, ready to fight back now. The woman took out her radar and saw that the wavelengths of Ash's Aura were now off the charts.

"His power is to the max! Take him out now!" the woman shouted to the man.

The man took out his pistol and started shooting towards Ash, but on instinct, Ash let his hand out to generate an Aura shield around himself, protecting him from the bullets. Ash stared at his palm surprised, and said, "Whoa." He didn't even think he could do that. He then looked back up and charged towards the man, who was now using a machine gun, but Ash's Aura shield continued to block every bullet. Ash then readied his fist and brought it to the man's face with a punch, sending him to the ground. "That is for hurting my friends!"

From behind, the woman fired an arrow towards Ash, but thanks to his Aura, Ash was able to detect the attack and duck under it. The woman fired more arrows towards Ash, but he avoided each and every one as he ran to the woman and started engaging with close quarters combat. The woman first tried to attack with the bow itself, but Ash avoided every swing and when she tried to grasp his neck with the weapon, Ash only grasped the parts of the arch she didn't have her hands on and squeezed it in his palms, destroying the bow with his Aura. The woman then tried to kick Ash twice, but Ash blocked each hit and countered back with his own kick. The woman blocked the attack, but then Ash gave her a surprise spin kick, sending her to the air, though the woman backflipped on the ground to regain her composure. She took out her whip and lashed it towards Ash, who brought up his right arm, causing the whip to wrap around his wrist. As the two tried to pull each other, Ash saw the man behind him running towards him with a dagger, so Ash swung back with the whip still wrapped on his wrist, causing the woman to fly off her feet and be launched into the man, sending both to the ground. The woman got up and slid another landmine towards Ash, but at the right moment, Ash jumped back a good distance away from the mine and trapped the explosion in a sphere of Aura. He then sent the sphere to the two mercenaries, resulting in the explosion hitting them, separating them. Ash ran towards the downed woman, took off her shades and pointed the lens right directly in front of the woman's eyes before pressing the button on the side, activating the flash attack. With her vision severely blinded now, the woman got up and reeled back, rubbing her eyes. He then turned his focus to the man, who now was using his staff as he charged towards Ash, spinning it to ready a swing, but with the help of his Aura, Ash detected each of the man's attacks before he could maneuver them, allowing Ash to avoid every swing until he grabbed the staff mid-swing and kicked the unsuspecting man down, taking the weapon for himself. The man got it ran towards Ash and the woman, now having recovered her vision, did the same, both of them using close quarters combat on Ash, though he defended himself with the staff. Ash then manifested his Aura into the staff and slammed the weapon to the ground, creating a shockwave that launched his enemies away. He then dropped the staff and started generating an Aura Sphere within his palms. Once the sphere got big enough, Ash fired it towards the two mercenaries, but the man saw it in time and jumped over it, leading the woman to take the hit, sending her back even more as the man leaped towards Ash with his dagger. Ash somersaulted under the man, avoiding the attack, and the man shot two arrows from his bow. Ash used his Aura to detect the arrows' exact direction, allowing him easily catch both, like as if time slowed down for him. Ash then ran towards the man and tried to strike him with the arrows, and the man managed to block the attacks at first, but Ash was able to sense where he wasn't going to block, allowing him to stab the man's left cheek and right side of his stomach with the arrows. The man staggered back in pain, and Ash slammed his palm on the man's chest, stunning him with his Aura. Now with the man completely vulnerable, Ash focused his energy in his right fist and punched straight through the man's torso, leaving a bloody hole as the man fell down, dead. Before Ash could think about what he just done, he detected a stray bullet coming his way and backflipped over it in time and saw the woman pointing her pistol towards him. Ash concentrated his Aura on the gun, engulfing it in the blue energy and causing it to break apart in the woman's hand. She then took out her sword and charged towards Ash while he took a dagger from the man's body, engaging the woman in a sword-on-dagger battle. The two seemed even, blocking and avoiding each other's' strikes until the woman landed a lucky shot on Ash's face, narrowly missing his left eye, but leaving a bloody vertical cut under it. Ignoring the pain, Ash continued to fight back until the woman tried a thrust move where Ash avoided in the nick of time as he edged closer to his opponent. Like if time was slowed down once again, Ash smoothly stabbed the dagger into the woman's gut, causing her to recoil back and scream in pain, dropping her sword in the process. Now with the woman completely vulnerable, Ash grabbed her sword and stabbed it into her chin and out of the top of her skull. Blood leaked down from the sword as the woman fell down dead.

(music stops playing)

Ash panted as the Aura surrounding his body died down. The battle was over and he had won and protected himself and his friends from death. Even though he took drastic measures to gain victory, he knew he had no other choice, and thus, wasn't too bothered over the fact he just did he has never done before: ended two lives. Ash felt sick inside, but right now, he was too exhausted to feel anything on the outside. Later, Ash gathered all the unconscious bodies of his Pokemon and used his Aura powers to heal them, though while it wasn't enough to fully rejuvenate them, it at least gave them back to energy to stand up on their feet. The Pokemon then saw the dead bodies of the cruel people who attacked them, as well as their trainer's Aura pulsing from his hands and they all looked at him concerned and curiously. Ash knew what they were thinking, so he told them, "After I saw you guys all defeated, my Aura within suddenly fully activated on itself, and when I used it to fight back against those two," Ash then stared at the two mercenaries, and then back to his Pokemon, "I guess I went a little overboard. Even though I'm happy I was able to protect us all and I guess it's pretty cool that I'm able to use my Aura more than ever now, it's just that, I don't really feel like myself right now." All of Ash's Pokemon gave him comforting cry, reassuring him that it wasn't his fault and they would've done the same thing. Ash smiled at his Pokemon and wrapped them all in a big group hug. "Thanks you guys," He then got back on his feet. "Well, let's continue our way to Pallet Town."

(plays You Idiot from Undertale)

"You monsters." said a female voice behind them. Surprised, Ash and his Pokemon turned away to see a lady with long red hair and blue eyes. She wore gold earrings, a blue top followed by a long black skirt, and red heels, and she was glaring at them with tears coming out her eyes. "I saw what you all did; hurting those poor people and then killing them in cold blood! You Aura Guardians are all alike! Just hurting innocent without reason! THEY WERE MY FRIENDS!"

"I'm sorry about your friends, but I had no other choice, they attacked us first," Ash argued with his Pokemon agreeing beside him. "And not only that, but they both insulted the heroic legacy of Aura Guardians and I just couldn't let that go by!"

"Do you even know what lives are like for people like those two?" the lady asked with a disgusted tone. And with every word from that point on, a dread of guilt filled up within Ash. "Me, my friends, and many other friends have suffered greatly throughout our lives because of people who use Aura. In the past, our ancestors have been killed due to careless Aura Guardian actions, like their intense training, or the wars they get into. But regardless of how many innocent lives they may have taken during their endeavors, they are praised and regarded as heroes by the end, while people like me, people like my family, have nothing to do but try to make up for what we lost. We move away from our destroyed homes and pay our respects to the friends and family we lost, while everyone else in town praises the Aura Guardians for their "heroism," and what makes things even worse, is that they don't even care. They just don't, as with all the power they have and all the praise they're given, they just think they're the best, that they're always right and nothing can get in their way. And then they just run people like me over like dust."

"Look, I'm really sorry all of that has happened to you, but I'm not like those kind of Aura Guardians. I'm-"

"YES YOU ARE," interrupted the woman, who was now crying. "You could've at least tried to settle things between you and my friends peacefully, you could've just tried to talk to them, you could've just recalled your Pokemon into their Pokeballs so they won't attack, but no! You all just fought back, thinking they, two people you don't even know, two people who you didn't even bother of asking where they came from, were villains! Just like many other Aura Guardians have done in the past!"

Now Ash was feeling completely defenseless as everything she said was true. He did just fight back without even trying to talk things over peacefully. Instead, who just let his Pokemon attack them when they insulted the kind of people Ash has a small pride for. And when Ash activated his Aura himself, he killed them, even though he had the power back then to simply incapacitate them, which would've given him the opportunity to talk things over.

"My friends were scared," the lady continued on, "in our childhoods, all three of us have lost our families due to Aura Guardians, leaving the three of us to defend for each other! Because of everything we've suffered back then, we feared anyone who could use Aura as you can never trust anyone! And now that they're gone, I have nothing left! You've taken everything that I had left, while you still have your friends, Pokemon, family, and your power!"

Ash and his Pokemon all fell to their knees, crying. Everything the lady was saying was true, especially the fact that they've completely ruined her life now. "I'm... I'm sorry." was all Ash could get out of his mouth right now.

The lady didn't listen though, instead, she took out a sword similar to the ones her friends used and walked towards Ash and his Pokemon threateningly, and this time, neither of time tried to defend themselves, as they were all overcome with guilt. "I have every right to kill all of you right now." said the lady. Ash and his Pokemon didn't protest and the lady pointed the sword under Ash's chin. Ash's Pokemon cried out to the lady, begging her to not kill him first as they didn't want to see their beloved trainer die, though Ash just patiently waited for the killing strike.

(music stops playing)

Much to his surprise, the lady didn't kill him despite the opportunity she had. She just looked at Ash and into his eyes and said, "However, I still want to prove that people like me are much better people than you Aura Guardians, so I'll just let you all go." She then put her sword away.

"R-R-Really?"

"Yes, but you all must remember this," she then grabbed Ash by his jacked and got close to his face threateningly, "I want you all to run away." This very warning shocked Ash and his Pokemon. The lady continued on, "I never want to see any of you in my life ever again. And if I ever do see you again, or if you were to report me to the authorities, I won't hold back. Not only will I kill you, but I will take away everything you cherish in your life, just as you did to mine." She then dropped Ash to the ground.

Ash was speechless. Run away? But where to? ...And how long?

"Remember that forever kid, and we won't have a problem ever again." The lady then walked away, disappearing into the forest as the storm continued on.

(plays Midna's Lament from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)

Ash remained on the ground for a couple of minutes, not saying a word. His Pokemon were concerned for him and they tried to cry out to get his attention, but Ash just sat still, like if all his emotions and feelings were gone. Pikachu jumped on his lap and yelled, "Pika Pi!" which finally gained Ash's attention.

"Guys, Pikachu, we really do have to run away." said a saddened Ash.

These words coming out of Ash's mouth shocked his Pokemon and they all cried out in a worried protest, trying to assure their trainer they shouldn't listen to the lady.

"We have no other choice!" Ash screamed out, now crying. "You guys heard her, if she sees us again, she'll kill everyone we love and because of that, we can't stay at home! We'll be out in the public which would risk us of the lady seeing us again, and we'll also be putting a huge worrying burden of the people we love and if someone else tries to go after her, she won't hold back! We HAVE to find somewhere to hide! Some place no one could ever see us again!"

Ash's Pokemon felt crushed seeing their usual optimistic and cheerful trainer in this state. Ash then brought his face down and started crying and his Pokemon joined him, wrapping their bodies around him to protect him from the rain. Ash then got up (slightly stumbling a bit until Greninja and Goodra helped him up) and announced, "We're going to Professor Oak's Lab to get everyone else." Ash's Pokemon nodded in agreement. "Let's go."

And with that, Ash and his Pokemon ran to Oak's Lab, doing their best to avoid being seen in the town. Upon reaching the lab, Ash knocked on the front door and Oak opened it up. While the professor was happy to see Ash again, as well as Pikachu and the new Kalos Pokemon, but he was also confused why Ash would show up on such a stormy night. Ash then explained everything that happened when he and his Pokemon were on their way to Pallet Town from the airport. Enraged, Oak was about to call Officer Jenny to track down the lady for doing such a thing to Ash, but quickly stopped him, telling him what would happen if the lady were to see him again or if he were to report her.

"And that's why I need to take all my Pokemon with me, so they we can all hide together and everyone we love will be safe." explained Ash.

"In completely understand Ash, but where you and your Pokemon go?" asked Oak.

Ash was wondering that himself. He looked around the lab in thought until he saw a map of both the Kanto and Johto regions on the wall. After a close inspection, Ash finally made his choice. "We'll hide at Mt. Silver."

This shocked Oak. As time passed by, Mt. Silver became a more dangerous place to be at, so dangerous, the people of Silver Town all moved due to constant avalanches and the Silver Conference was moved to town north of Blackthorn City. "Are you sure, Ash? That mountain range has been labeled one of the dangerous areas of our world and many who have gone up there have never came back."

"Then it's the perfect place. High up those mountains, we would be far away from everyone and no one would dare try to look for us there."

Oak nodded. Despite the dangers of Mt. Silver, he agreed that it'll be the perfect place to hide and he believed Ash and his Pokemon were capable enough to reach the top, especially with all of them working together. "Very well Ash. Rotom and I will get all your Pokeballs ready. And Ash, while you gather your other Pokemon, I can also heal Pikachu and your other Pokemon at the Healing System."

"Thanks professor."

Ash returned his Kalos Pokemon in their Pokeballs and gave them and Pikachu to Professor Oak. Professor Oak and his Rotom went off to heal Ash's Pokemon and retrieve the Pokeballs while Ash went outside to the Oak Corral. Rain was still pouring, though not as bad when they fought those guys from before, and thus, there were no Pokemon in sight as they were hiding under the lakes, trees, and ground of the Corral. The only exception was Bulbasaur who was sleeping on a tree stump close to the lab. He woke up and saw his trainer and ran towards him, happy to see him again. When he reached trainer, he noticed how scratched up and hurt he looked and stared at him worriedly and curiously.

"I'll explain everything later buddy, I just really need you to call every of my Pokemon right now."

Bulbasaur obediently nodded and fired a Solar Beam firework that was in a color and shape of all the region's different color and shape combined, signifying to Ash's Pokemon that everyone was needed. Within only a few minutes every single of Ash's Pokemon at the lab, from Charizard to Krookodile, arrived. They were all happy to see their trainer, but then grew concerned when they saw him in a hurt condition, as well as some tears falling from his face and a healing scar under his left eye. Ash then explained to them all what happened to him, Pikachu, and his Kalos Pokemon when they were on their way to Pallet Town, that they were attacked because the mercenaries sensed that Ash could use Aura and for killing them, their friend demanded him to run away or else she'll kill everyone he loves. Ash's Pokemon were shocked and saddened by this, especially that they weren't there for Ash when his life was on the line, but they were relieved that Ash and the others were able to make it out alive, though they wanted to hurt the lady for telling such crude things to Ash. When Ash announced he was planning on hiding away to Mt. Silver, many Pokemon were surprised, considering how treacherous the mountain range has become over time. Seeing this, Ash told his Pokemon they don't have to come if they don't want to, as despite everything that has happened, Ash still cares for his Pokemon, always wanting them to make their own decisions instead of forcing them like most trainers do. But no Pokemon hesitated to go with Ash. They all loved their trainer a lot, and wherever he goes, they go. They knew together, they will all get stronger and stronger and they will be able to protect Ash at all costs. Upon seeing none of his Pokemon refusing to go, Ash started crying, thankful to have such caring and loyal Pokemon. Eventually, Professor Oak and his Rotom came in with a cart of all of Ash's Pokeballs, as long with the Pokeballs of Ash's Kalos Pokemon, and Pikachu sitting on top. Pikachu jumped on Ash's shoulder and Ash recalled every single of his Pokemon into their Pokeballs, minus the other 29 Tauros. Ash told them he couldn't possibly handle all of them at Mt. Silver, but he reassured them that he still loves all of them just as he does with the others and they all reassured the same, understanding him and hoping the best. With everyone (except Pikachu) in their Pokeballs, Oak gave Ash a yellow backpack that was bigger than the one he had now to safely keep his Pokeballs in when he traveled and a long brown cloak to protect him from the rain and hide his identity from the public if he were ever to be seen. Oak also gave Ash some potions, berries, and medicines.

Putting on the cloak, Ash thanked the professor for his help and was about to make his way out until Oak stopped him for a moment and said, "Ash, I just want you to know that ever since I first met you as one of my students years ago, I always saw huge potential as a trainer in you, even more than my grandson, and now that I've seen you grown and accomplish so much in only one year, I see more than a trainer in you. I see a hero."

Ash smiled at the him. "Thanks Oak, I'll miss you a lot!"

"Chu pikachu!" Pikachu nodded in agreement.

"And don't forget to not tell anyone about this."

"Your secret is safe with me and I won't tell anyone, nt even Tracey when he gets back. Right Rotom?"

"Ro TOM!" Rotom happily agreed. Rotom and Pikachu then both gave each a small Thunderbolt as their way of saying goodbye.

Suddenly Bulbasaur released himself from his Pokeball and ran up to Oak to say goodbye himself.

"Bulba bulbasaur!"

"I'll miss you too, Bulbasaur!"

"Professor, are you sure the Corral will okay without Bulbasaur?"

"I'm sure it will. Things have been a lot more peaceful since you first sent Bulbasaur to me back during your Johto journey and I'll always have Rotom and Dragonite to help me out if things get out of hand between the Pokemon."

"That's great, professor," Ash then recalled Bulbasaur back into his Pokeball, put on the hood of the cloak, and made his way out the lab's door. "Thank you for everything Professor Oak. I hope we see each other again soon. Goodbye." And with that, Ash and Pikachu disappeared into the rainy night as Oak and Rotom waved goodbye to them, hoping them a safe future.

Before Ash and Pikachu left Pallet Town, Ash wrote his mom a letter that said:

Dear Mom, I'm sorry for how long you must have waited for me and Pikachu to return home, but sadly, we just can't come back. I'm sorry, but when we were on our way back home from the airport, things just happened, and because of those things, I have to go off to somewhere else with my Pokemon. Please don't worry about us, Mom! Just know that wherever I go, you'll always be in my mind. I won't ever forget you mom and I love you with all my heart. - Ash

Without being noticed, Ash left the letter on the front door, rang the doorbell, and ran away, eventually leaving Pallet Town behind. Forever.

(plays Courage from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)

Ash didn't immediately went to Mt. Silver after he left, as there were still some of his Pokemon he had to get back. First, Ash traveled to Viridian Forest to get back his Pidgeot, as the flock he protected now had several other Pidgeot to defend themselves with. He then used his Aura to detect where Squirtle was at the moment, which was Vermillion City. Using Pidgeot (it was too dangerous to use Charizard due to the rain) to fly to the city, Ash met with the Squirtle Squad and the Officer Jenny in charge of them and Ash, not really trusting Jenny to keep secrets from other Jennys, just told her he really needed Squirtle back on his team permanently due to certain complications happening to his life right now and believing him, Jenny allowed Ash to have Squirtle back. When Ash was alone with Squirtle though, he explained the real reason why he needed him back and Squirtle happily insisted on going with him, wanting to protect his trainer. Pidgeot then flew Ash to Anthony and Rebecca's house to get Primeape. Fortunately for Ash, since was only training Primeape, not keeping him, he just gave Primeape back when he arrived, allowing Ash not having to think of lie like he did with Officer Jenny. Next Pokemon to find was Lapras, but when Ash was using his Aura to detect her location, he detected something else: a cry for help. Ash followed where the cry was coming from to find two Team Rocket grunts holding a cage with a trapped Eevee, whom they planned to test painful experiments on to create an Eevee capable of transforming into any of its evolution forms at anytime. Not wanting to have such a poor Pokemon go through such a horrible thing, Ash attacked the grunts with Pikachu and Pidgeot and freed the Eevee from her cage. Thankful, Eevee happily allowed herself to be captured. Ash then detected Lapras's location, which was the shores of New Bark Town with her herd, and when he got there and explained to Lapras why he's gonna need her back on the team, she happily obliged, revealing she was just about to make her apprentice leader soon anyway. Then there was one last Pokemon Ash felt he needed to get before we went to Mt. Silver, and it was a Pokemon that he hasn't even previously own. It was Riolu, and not just any Riolu, but the one he met in Sinnoh, and while Ash never plans to be an Aura Guardian, he felt having Riolu around would help him further explore his Aura power and capabilities. Pidgeot effortlessly flew his trainer to the Sinnoh region, and thanks to his Aura, Ash was able to meet up with Aura Sphere Riolu he met Sinnoh, who was also looking for him when his Aura identified Ash being in the region, closeby to his village. After a sweet reunion, Ash explained to Riolu about what has happened to him recently and what he plans to do now and Riolu happily accepted to join his team after revealing his previous trainer had recently died in his sleep from old age.

With many of his old Pokemon back under his belt, Ash went back to the Kanto region and traveled to Mt. Silver, which at this time wasn't off-limits to enter. Starting at the base, Ash and Pikachu crossed the ruined Mt. Silver and after reaching a higher level of terrain, the two came across a pleasant surprise: a Butterfree wearing a yellow scarf. This area of Mt. Silver was where Butterfree and his mate migrated to! Ash, Pikachu, and Butterfree had a tearful reunion and Butterfree eagerly rejoined the team after learning what has been happening lately, and he promised his mate that he'll still visit her and their kids (though nowadays, they reside in the wide mountain with Ash's Pokemon). In the same level of ground, Ash and Pikachu were attacked by a giant Steelix, but the oversized snake was quickly taken down by a Tyranitar. Much to Ash and Pikachu's surprise, after the Steelix was defeated, the Tyranitar ran up to them to hug and lick them. The Tyranitar then kept using Iron Defense, which gave it away that this was the same Larvitar Ash hatched from its egg back at his Johto journey. Tyranitar joyfully joined the team after Ash explained to him what has been going on.

Ash Ketchum, with Pikachu on his shoulder and 45 Pokeballs inside his backpack, made his way up Mt. Silver. It was a long and rough endeavor, but with the help of his Pokemon, he was able to reach the very top with no problem.

Throughout the years of solitude and seclusion, Ash and his Pokemon trained. Why? If there were ever be a day someone attacks them, they would be ready. More than ready. Not only did all of Ash's Pokemon reached their final evolutionary stages (except Pikachu of course, and Eevee chose to become an Espeon), but all the Pokemon that could Mega Evolve all had their Mega Stones (Charizard even had both the X and Y stones), they were bigger, stronger, faster, etc. than each of their individual species, and they were able to use more than four moves, as well as a variety of unique techniques. Basically, they were all the best they could be. Ash has also trained his Aura to its max, in fact, he was an all-out master of it now. With the power of his Aura, Ash can communicate with his Pokemon and even give commands telepathically. Ash also trained all his Pokemon to use Aura as well and while they (except Lucario) couldn't do certain techniques like throw Aura Spheres, they could still use Aura to detect incoming threats, identify their surroundings within their minds, block deadly attacks, etc. For 8 long years, Ash and his Pokemon stayed at Mt. Silver, only leaving occasionally whenever there was a Pokemon-related crisis going on, though Ash's identity always remained hidden when he was out in public. To the rest of the world, Ash was gone.

(music stops playing)

End of flashback

"And eight years later, we're still here, living our lives of solitude..." Ash emptily muttered to himself.

Pikachu jumped on his lap and cried out for him, causing Ash to snap back to reality. He looked down to his best friend, just remembering he was there, and then looked up at the sky, seeing the night had come without even realizing it.

"Buddy, I told you I'm fine, I was just, y'know, remembering old stuff."

Pikachu gave Ash an unsure and concerned look. "Pika Pi..."

"Nothing's bothering Pikachu, everything's all behind me now. The past is in the past."

Pikachu still gave Ash an unsure and concerned look, knowing there was something wrong. Ash just sighed, placed Pikachu to his side, and got up, only to turn around and see each and every one of his Pokemon staring worriedly at their trainer, also sensing something wrong deep within his mind.

"Guys, I said I'm fine. Come on, it's getting late, let's go to bed."

Ash then made his way back into the mountain crater, walking past his Pokemon who all looked concerned and sympathetic for their trainer. They all knew what he was really feeling, and it wasn't because of their Aura, but because of their bond with him. They knew deep down, despite Ash trying to remain his highly-energized and optimistic self, he was really deeply depressed. For 8 years, Ash has lived away from the ones he loved like his mother, all for their own protection. He was forced to stray away from his life of battling other trainers, meeting new people, exploring cool places, and competing in leagues. He had to give up his dream to become a Pokemon Master. The scar under his left eye was also a forever reminder of how it all started. Ash tries to hide it from his Pokemon so they won't have to worry about him. While Ash's Pokemon also miss their old lives of battling others and traveling the world, what they miss the most was a genuine smile from their trainer, not one that was forced and clouded by hidden sadness, but they knew just as much as their trainer that going back would only prove to be a danger for others. Overall, they just want to always be there for Ash, to always protect him, to always fight for him. That's why they train for him, not to be strong, but to defend Ash.

(plays Family from Super Mario Galaxy)

Inside the crater, Ash entered his cave and lied down on his bed of leaves. After letting out a sigh, Ash tried to fall asleep, but he just couldn't as the dark memories still fogged up inside his mind.

"What's happened has happened. It's all over. Go to sleep. This is your life now." Ash mentally told himself, trying to get himself to sleep, but to no avail.

Pikachu then entered the cave and curled up against Ash's chest. Ash and Pikachu always slept with each other, but this night was different as Pikachu knew of the inner struggles Ash was going through right now. And Ash knew that he knew.

"Pikachu," Ash said, trying to hold back some tears, "how many times do I have to tell you? The past no longer bothers me, I'm fi-"

But before he could finish, Ash then saw the rest of his Pokemon enter his cave and they all curled around their trainer too, wanting to sleep with him for the night. They all deeply cared for Ash and wanted to let him know that they share his pain, but regardless, they will always have each other, so they'll never be alone.

"Please, guys, you don't have to do this," Ash said as more tears poured from his eyes. "The past is totally behind me. Really. Nothing's bothering me right now."

Ash's Pokemon only snuggled closer to their trainer, with the ones closer to his face giving him comforting licks.

Unable to hold anything back now, Ash cried out to his friends as tears now streamed down his face, "Why won't any of you listen? I'M FINE! (sniff) I-I'm fine..."

Ash then looked at the faces of all his Pokemon. Not only they were crying with him, but they all had a comforting smile, reassuring their trainer that they will always be there for him, they will always understand, they will protect him from harm, and they will always love him.

Ash now smiled back at his Pokemon. "Guess I can't hide anything from you guys."

He should've known. There's nothing he can hide from his Pokemon, the ones who dedicate their lives to be by his side thick-and-through. Feeling their love and dedication, the dark thoughts that prevented Ash from sleeping started to drift away.

"Heh, I really am a stubborn fool. I tried to keep stuff away from you guys, but I guess it was more obvious than I thought," Ash then started to finally drift to sleep. "Everyone, thank you. Thank you for always staying by my side, no matter how many stupid decisions I make in life. I couldn't ever ask for better Pokemon than you all, and also, you guys are more than just Pokemon. You all are my friends, my family. I love you all with all my heart."

All the Pokemon happily cried out, saying they love their trainer too.

"Thanks guys. Now, let's all get some sleep."

With tears still falling from their closed eyes, Ash and his Pokemon all fell asleep, happy and content that despite everything that has happened in their lives so far, they still had each other. Ash loves his Pokemon, and they love him. And right now, just being together was all they could ask for.

Ash, Pikachu, Butterfree, Pidgeot, Venusaur, Charizard, Blastoise, Kingler, Primeape, Muk, Tauros, Lapras, Snorlax, Heracross, Meganium, Typhlosion, Feraligatr, Noctowl, Donphan, Tyranitar, Swellow, Sceptile, Crawdaunt, Torkoal, Glalie, Staraptor, Torterra, Infernape, Floatzel, Gliscor, Garchomp, Unfezant, Samurott, Emboar, Serperior, Scrafty, Leavanny, Seismitoad, Gigalith, Krookodile, Greninja, Talonflame, Hawlucha, Goodra, Noivern, Espeon, & Lucario. - One big family that could never be broken.


Whew, that was a lot to type. So much exposition to cover and form together, along with all the fights, the part of Ash running away and getting all his Pokemon, yikes. But hey, it was fun.

Poor Ash, having to go through all of that just for something he was born with. (but remember, the flashback was in Ash's perspective, not anyone else's)

I also want to clarify that only Ash has a scar from his fight with those anti-aura people. Pikachu and the Kalos Pokemon, while they too got hurt a lot in the fight, were left with no scars or any permanent marks what-so-ever.

In case the depiction for the crater Ash lived in does not make too much sense or didn't give a lot of info, I generally picture to be just like the inside of Mt. Quena from Mewtwo Returns, only a lot bigger, more vibrant in foliage and water, and the ceiling being open due to it being a crater.

Once again, please leave a review if you to give certain advice on something that you've seen that needs to be improved on, or if you just want to send me your general thoughts. Feel free to ask questions too, though I will only answer them if they won't give away spoilers for later chapters. All greatly appreciated and a huge thank you for all the positive reviews for the prologue. I was honestly surprised to see how much good reception the prologue got, so thank you all and I love the support! You all rock!