Chapter 5: Meeting with the Legends
Inside his dream, Ash had found himself in a place that looked so majestic and yet so…strange. The entre place was in the shape of a large room was painted white and a red carpet was strewn across the floor. Some stained glass windows were on what Ash thought was the right wall and there seemed to be light coming from the other side.
"Where am I? And what is this place?", asked Ash to himself in confusement.
The windows showed some pictures of legendary pokemon. Then something caught Ash's eye. In one of the windows, he saw Lugia, the Great Beast of the Sea, flying during what looked like storm and he was carrying a human on his back as he flew. As Ash walked over to the window to get a closer look at the scene, he recognised the human who was in the window.
It was him. Then he suddenly remembered the scene. It was when he was adventuring in the Orange Islands to enter the Orange League when he got in the way of a pokemon thief named Lawrence who wanted to capture The Titan Bird Trio just so that he can capture Lugia as well. Ash still remembered that day very well like it was yesterday, because during that adventure, it was also when Lugia told him he was The Chosen One, the human who would save the world of pokemon from dangers and bring balance to the planet.
When he turned his attention to another window, this one showed a scene of him with Latias and Latios in the secret garden in Altomare. This brought back bad memories for him because he witnessed the death of Latios and having to leave Latias to continue his journey. But he will never forget the moment when he became friends with them.
Ash thought something was strange about these windows, so he decided to walk around to look at them all. As he passed one after another, he kept on seeing more pictures of himself with different Legendary pokemon like Mew, Zekrom, Victini, Kyogre, Jirachi and even Arceus.
All of a sudden, Ash figured out the connection between them. These were all the scenes from all previous adventures he had when he was traveling. They all told the story of how Ash managed to save the world again and again while meeting legendary pokemon. The windows didn't show another human in them, not even Ash's former friends.
Suddenly, a familiar voice was heard from behind. "Hello, Chosen One", it said in a welcoming and lukewarm tone.
Ash turned around to be face-to-face – with a lot of familiar faces. He recognised them as the faces of The Titan Bird Trio, Mewtwo, Mew, The Beast Trio, Lugia, Ho-oh, The Regi Trio, Latias, Kyogre, Groudon, Rayquaza, Jirachi, The Lake Trio, Dialga, Palkia, Regigigas, Giratina, Cresselia, Phione, Manaphy, Darkrai, Shaymin, The Swords of Justice, The Weather Trio, Reshiram, Zekrom, Kyurem and Meloetta. Arceus himself has standing in middle of everyone.
"It has been quite a while, hasn't it Ash?", asked Arceus.
"Yeah , it has.", replied Ash. He then looked at everyone else standing in front of him. "And it is great to see you all again too, everyone."
The legendaries all said their greetings to him in their most politest way. But some others had better ideas. Latias and Shaymin in his Skye Forme quickly flew up to him and tackled him to the ground , nuzzling him. Manaphy quickly ran up to Ash and gave him a big hug, while Jirachi simply floated over and landed on his head, giggling.
"I'm really happy to see you again, Ash.", said Latias.
"Hello, Papa. I missed you so much.", said Manaphy with tears of joy starting to fomr in his eyes.
"Long time no see, Ash.", said Shaymin.
"Hey, friend Ash.", squeaked out Jirachi.
"And it's all fantastic to see you all too.", said Ash to his friends that he hadn't seen in a very long time. As he began to regain his balance and stand up. The other Legendaries chuckled.
"It's great to see you in such fine health, Ash.", said Arceus, still holding in laughter. "Now, do you know where you are, Chosen one?"
Ash then remembered that he was going to ask Arceus about where he was. "No, Arceus. Where am I?", asked Ash, still wondering about where he was in the world.
"Well, my friend, you are in The Hall of Origins.", said Arceus.
"The Hall of Origins?", asked Ash in confusion. He had certainly heard of places like Spear Pillar, but he had never heard of such a place as the Hall of Origins
"The Hall of Origins is the place of myths and legends to humans. This is where Arceus first began to shape the universe from and also the place where legendaries come together for special gatherings, much like this one right now.", said Landorus.
"Wow. This place is incredible.", said Ash in delight.
"Indeed,", replied Ho-oh, "and these pictures on the windows are symbols and memories . Symbols of your heroism and courage when you protected the world from harm again and again. They are memories to us because they remind us of you."
"Now, Ash, lets continue this meeting.", said Arceus, "Do you know why you are here?"
Ash didn't have a clue why he was in an unknown location with all the Legendaries that he knew, so he responded, "No, I don't, Arceus. But my best guess is you called me here to tell me that a new danger has arisen upon the world and you want me to stop it?"
Some of the Legendaries were surprised that Ash would even think of danger the night before his new adventure, but most of them laughed at his guess.
"Nonsense, boy,", said Palkia, "we simply called you here to speak about your new adventure."
"Yes,", said Dialga, "for all the times, that your either helped us or saved us, we didn't properly manage to thank you for your good deeds."
"Ever since Lugia first told me you were known as as the Chosen One,", spoke Arceus, "I've been keeping a close eye on you to see if he made the right choice. And he has. I've watched you through the rest of your journey through Sinnoh and your journey in Unova. I have been told that you've been up to your old 'hobby' again. And that is protecting the world from evercoming harm. After all these unselfish acts were reported, we were going to at first bring you here just to give our gratitude and thanks as all at one time."
Ash couldn't believe this. The Legendaries were all coming together and putting so much trouble just to thank him for saving the planet? This was unbelievable to him.
"But then we all saw what your so-called 'friends' did to you,", said Mewtwo, " this changed the plans for the meeting and made into something more. We are also here to bless your new quest and some of us have some things that we wish to tell you."
This was news for Ash. He didn't know the Legendaries had figured out about the betrayal, because Ash always thought they had their own duties to attend to and no time to look over him.
"Ash, your new quest is, in my opinion, going to be the one to determine your destiny as a Pokemon Master.", said Rayquaza, "There are many humans who will want to always be stronger than you, including your betrayers. If you are to achieve your dream, then you must not only push yourself to the limits to become more intelligent and strong. But you must also acquire a much larger group of pokemon to be in your team. Because the way I see it, you will need all the help you can get and it is a very long way to the top."
Ash understood this. He had dreamed of catching more pokemon to befriend and train. But in his case, most of the pokemon that joined his team, like Torkoal, Squirtle and Heracross, had wanted to go with him because he had done something meaningful for them. But with Rayquaza's words, he now fells more determined than ever to catch more pokemon.
"I understand, Rayquaza. I will not ignore your words and do my best.", said Ash in a strong voice as Rayquaza gave a smile of proudness.
"That is were my plan comes in, Ash.", said Giratina. "I had noticed that over your travels, there were a lot of pokemon you have befriended, saved or helped and they had taken a liking to you. I told them about what had happened, and they all agreed to accompany you on your journey. I also told some other pokemon you knew in a bad way, but they also decided to come with you nonetheless. As well as them, any pokemon that you have released will also be coming back. Tomorrow, when you begin your quest, you are to got to a lake that is located in the heart of the north side of Viridian Forest. You shall find them there and take them with you."
Ash was surprised. Giratina, the Renegade Pokemon, had called upon pokemon that Ash had previously known and told them about the betrayal? He could only remember the Larvitar he helped to hatch, but he was eager to know who else would be there. He also remembered Lapra, Pidgeot and Butterfree and was hoping they were there too.
"Also, a number of us have also decided to join you.", said Zekrom.
Ash was shocked. This whole gathering was great already because he was talking with all the Legendaries he knew, but now they want to go with him on his journey? He could only say so much to this.
"But traveling with me could be dangerous.", said Ash in protest. This didn't surprise the Legendaries, since they already knew the risks they were willing to take. "It would be great to have you with me and all, but that means we could the targets of pokemon thieves, especially Team Rocket. Also, you all have duties to do in your regions, and I don't want to interfere in those duties. And this might mean for those who want to come, you might have to participate in contests of battles."
The Legendaries were astounded by the boy's protests because he was truly trying to protect them again from any unwanted attention. But just because they were Legendary pokemon doesn't mean they could have their own trainer also as a friend and they can protect themselves without trouble.
"We all understand your concerns for us, Chosen One,", said Lugia, "but we want to see the world from the way you have seen it. And as for our duties, they are really minor jobs in our lives that we can get bored from. Besides, you did a great favour for each of us in the past, and now it is time for those who are willing to come with you to return the favour."
"Yeah, Ash. Arceus already ordered another Latias and Latios pair to protect the Soul Dew back in Altomare. I had also told Bianca and Lorenzo about what I wanted to do and they allowed me.", said Latias
Ash couldn't believe at the efforts of the Legendaries who wanted to go with him. He knew he couldn't win this argument, so he gave out one final answer.
"Ok. For those who want to come with me, you can come. But I can't promise you a pain-free journey since battles will be involved in it,", said Ash softly, "but I will do the best that I possibly can to make sure you will never be put in harm's way and I will take all responsibilies for all actions."
The Legendaries smiled. The pokemon who were coming all cheered in excitement.
"That's great to hear, Ash,", said Mewtwo, "Now do you remember when I told you that some of us wanted to talk to you about some things?"
"Yes, Mewtwo. I remember.", replied Ash.
The Legendaries suddenly all disappeared except for Zekrom, Ho-oh, and Lugia.
Zekrom started off. "Hero of Ideals, do you remember on the first day of your Unova journey, I shot lightning at Pikachu and rendering him powerless without electricity for a short time? Do you know why I did that?"
"Yeah. I remember that day very well. I forgot to ask you that when we last met.", replied Ash as that day came back to his mind.
"Well, my lightning bolts are a sign of judgement.", explained Zekrom, " And when I first laid eyes on Pikachu, I knew instantly he was worthy of a power much greater than what he had already. During the time he was without electricity, there was a power growing in him that he still hasn't unlocked today. And in an area of his mind that he has not yet uncovered. What I gave him was the power to use my signature moves, Bolt Strike and Fusion Bolt."
Ash could only stand in shock when he heard this. All this time, he thought that the lightning strike from Zekrom was a short time curse, but here he was now telling him that it was instead a gift and that Pikachu now has a power that can be unleashed.
"That sounds logical, Zekrom, but does Pikachu even have what it takes to discover his true power?", asked Zekrom.
Zekrom laughed. "Yes, he does. That is why I want to come along with you so I can help him to unlock power during our travels. Now, I believe it is Ho-oh's turn to talk to you."
Then he disappeared like the other pokemon.
Ho-oh flew walked a few more feet towards Ash before stopping. "Ash, do you remember on your very first day of your journey when you saw me flying? Did you actually know why I let you see me?"
"No, Ho-oh. All this time, I still hadn't thought back to that day."', replied Ash.
"Well, I was blessing your journey. In myths, it is said those who see me will be granted eternal happiness. I see you have sort of found eternal happiness by now. During your travels, you have met many new pokemon and people. And no matter mow many leagues you lost, you always had the determination to go on. You also met your 'friends' with dreams of their own that they want to accomplish, but now that they have left you, I wish to personally bless your new journey. Face to face.", said Ho-oh.
Then Ho-oh dug her beak in to her back like she was trying to flatten her magnificent coat of feathers. Instead, she plucked out a feather out of her back with her beak and put it in Ash's hand.
"In other myths, those who receive a feather from me won't just have a very happy journey, but they will also find someone that they can trust forever without doubt.", said Ho-oh.
"Thank you very much, Ho-oh.", thanked Ash. He was still thinking if there was anyone he could still trust apart from his pokemon, Gary, Mom and Professor Oak. Even after the betrayal.
"You are very welcome, Chosen One. Now it looks like Lugia wants his turn to talk to you.", said Ho-oh before vanishing like Zekrom.
Lugia spoke. "I'll bet you have been wondering about something in particular about yourself for quite a while now. Have you ever wondered why I decided to make you as The Chosen One?"
Out of all the things that ran in Ash's mind, that question was what he thought about the most in his life since the Orange Islands. He thought to himself over and over again why he was the Chosen One and not someone else.
"No. Lugia, out of all the people in the world, why did you chose me?", asked Ash.
"Ash, I have been searching out for a human worthy to be the Chosen One for countless centuries. I have come across some who seemed to have the potential to be the Chosen One, but they were all missing the same aspect. And that is a heart that knows no boundries of love for pokemon.", explained Lugia, " I couldn't seem to find that person. Until you were born, that is. I looked deep into your soul and saw that you were to definitely have what it takes have the heart of a true Chosen One. But after seeing what happened to you during the first conflict between Mew and Mewtwo, I knew that the Chosen One was going to be you. When you interfered in that conflict, I saw that you loved all kinds of pokemon, clones or not. So I made it my mission that I was to tell you that you are the Chosen One. And that time luckily turned out to be at the Orange Islands."
Ash had listened carefully to Lugia's whole story. He now understood the truth about his second identity. So he was chosen because of an aspect he had that others didn't. A heart that knows no boundries for love of pokemon."
"Lugia, it all makes sense to me now. Thank you, for everything. And I will continue to adore pokemon just the way they are.", said Ash.
Lugia smiled. Then the Legendaries began to reappear, but not all were present. The ones that were all present were Arceus, Celebi, Lugia, Ho-oh, Latias, Jirachi, Manaphy, Giratina, Darkrai, Azelf, Shaymin, Keldeo, Meloetta, Zekrom, Victini and Kyurem.
"Ash, our meeting is coming to a close. The pokemon in front of you, excluding myself and Celebi, will be joining you on your journey. You will find them in their respective pokeballs in your desk drawer when you wake up. The others have already left, but they wish you grand luck on your journey.", said Arceus.
Suddenly, the Legendaries, except Arceus, turned into flashes of red light and were sucked into pokeballs they were carrying that Ash hadn't noticed. The pokeballs all went off with a ding, signalling their capture, and then vanished.
"Also, Ash, just what because you can no longer trust your former friends doesn't mean you can't trust anyone else you have met who doesn't agree with them. This means there might still be someone out there who does appreciate your skills.", said Celebi before vanishing too.
Soon, the only ones that were left in the Hall of Origins were Ash and Arceus. But not for long.
"Ash?", said Arceus.
"Yes, Arceus?", replied Ash.
"It's time to wake up.", said Arceus before giving off a huge light. That was the last thing Ash remembered before closing his eyes.
xxxxx
Ash's eyes snapped open as he awoke. Pikachu was still sleeping at the foot of his bed with his mouth drooling. He must be having another dream about ketchup again. Ash slowly sat up in his bed, careful not to wake up Pikachu. He looked at his clock and it showed that is was six thirty in the morning. Some sunlight was peering in through the closed curtains.
His mind was still going over about what happened at the Hall of Origins. Was all that real or was it just another dream that he had? His head was beginning to go a little bit crazy.
Suddenly, he saw something glistening from under his pillow. He put his hand in and pulled out a shining feather. Ash recognised it as the one Ho-oh had given to him in his dream. So it wasn't a dream. And that meant it all really happened. The Hall of Origins. The meeting. The Legendaries. It was all true. And that meant one other thing.
Ash quickly scrambled out of bed, waking up Pikachu in the process.
"Pika Pika?", said a yawning Pikachu, a little bit annoyed to be woken up from his great dream.
"Sorry about that, Pikachu, but I have to see something.", apologised Ash as he ran towards his desk. He then opened its top draw and revealed fourteen pokeballs. They were the pokeballs of the legendary pokemon.
"Yes, so it wasn't a dream at all!", exclaimed Ash. Pikachu was confused at why his trainer was acting so jumpy.
"Pikachu Pikapi?", asked Pikachu.
"Oh yeah, Pikachu. Sorry for waking you up, but there is something I want you to see and tell you.", said Ash. He showed the little mouse the feather of Ho-oh and the fourteen new pokeballs.
"Pika Pika Pikachu?", asked Pikachu in confusion. The items all looked interesting to him.
"I guess it would all make sense if I explained the whole dream to you.", sweatdropped Ash, "Well, you see, I had this dream…"
For about ten minutes, Ash explained the whole dream he had to Pikachu, not leaving out a single detail. He explained what the Legendaries had told him about his journey, meeting again with old pokemon friends, how some of the Legendaries explained to him important details and what Legendaries were in the pokeballs. He also mentioned the part where Zekrom said Pikachu had his powers and could use his signature moves. All of this made Pikachu really excited because he will get to see Manaphy and his other Legendary friends again. But at the part where Ash said Zekrom gave Pikachu great power, he was really shocked. He kept looking at his hands in wonder. Did he really have so much power within him or was it all a joke.
Suddenly, they heard Delia's voice coming from downstairs. "Ash, come down and have your breakfast. You can't leave on your journey on an empty stomach, you know.", shouted Delia.
"Ok, Mom, I'll be down in a moment. Just need to get changed into some clothes.", answered Ash. Pikachu didn't want to see Ash getting changed in front of him, so he quickly bolted out of the room and downstairs to the kitchen.
Ash didn't know what he was going to wear until he saw a new set of traveling clothes on his dresser waiting on his dresser. There was his black shirt that he always wears, a shirt sleeved jacket that was white and had orange sleeves, a cap that had the same colours, a light grey pair of jeans and a pair of sneakers that were sporting the colours of black and white. Ash thought the clothes looked incredible, so he put them on straight away. He wasn't going to put on the shoes until he goes outside, but he did put on a clean pair of white socks.
When he was done, he went downstairs, only to be hit by the delicious aroma of pancakes, maple syrup and hot chocolate. As he entered the kitchen, his mother suddenly looked up from washing the frying pan. He quickly went to the doorway to put his new shoes near the door.
"Good morning, dear. Have you had a good night's sleep before your big day today?", asked his mother with a smile. Pikachu was already at the kitchen table, eating some pokemon food with ketchup on top.
"I slept well, Mom.", replied Ash. He sat down at the table and began to eat his breakfast. His mother soon joined him. Ash took his time in eating, which surprised his mom, because he would usually scarf down his food in a hurry before running off.
"Thank you for the great new clothes, Mom.", said Ash.
"You're welcome. They really suit you.", replied Delia.
"Pika!", agreed Pikachu, whose mouth was covered with ketchup.
When they were finished eating, Ash began to clean up the table and putting the dishes in the mom was cleaning up Pikachu's face with a cloth, which he liked very much.
"Ash, I can take care of the rest of this. I suggest you get to Professor Oak's laboratory. He did say he had a few more surprises for you before you going your journey, didn't he?", asked Delia.
"Oh, yeah. I'll go there right now.", said Ash as he dashed for the door and putting on his new shoes and Pikachu following him.
"Take care, sweetie.", called out Delia.
"Ok.", said Ash. He then turned to his partner, who was perched up on his shoulder. Just then, Buneary and Axew appeared before him, wanting to come along too.
"Well, guys, this is it. After noon hits, we and the others shall have a new beginning at a new journey. We'll show the world that we are going to be the very best that anyone has ever see.", said Ash proudly.
The three pokemon agreed by cheering. Then they began to run to Professor Oak's lab, just like on the day Ash first started his journey. He also couldn't wait to get to Viridian Forest to meet the newcomers and to show the Legendaries to his pokemon.