Hello Everyone, today is a bittersweet day, as today is the posting of the last chapter in the "Tied in Love" trilogy. But, before we continue, we have a review to respond to.
ER-47 (All Stories): Thank you! It brings me joy to know that you've enjoyed each of the stories.
Now, for the final time in this trilogy, on with the story.
Chapter 21: Five Years Later
(Several Hours Later, at a room in Levincia, Paldea)
"Madeline has really done some outraging things. You answered your question well, Mateus. But the question is, how do we ensure that these new hybrids adjust and return to society?" Asked Blake. "The Aether Foundation has some experience with this issue from helping Serena. In addition, her husband Ash, also helped her tremendously in adjusting to the changes in her body that came as a result of hybridization. However, given the global scale that this issue has reappeared in, a one size fits all solution will only be problematic." Said Mateus. Blake then turns to Mateus. "What solution do you have?" "There are many organizations all over the world that will want to help the new hybrids, but I do not suspect that all of them will be doing so out of generosity like the Aether Foundation did for Serena. I propose we form a task force along with the Aether Foundation using the experience that they gained from helping Serena as a basis, and go around conducting interviews with organizations that wish to help hybrids. Once we find a helping organization for each region, we'll disband the task force to let them form an international coalition dedicated to helping hybrids." "And this will be adjusted depending on which species the person is hybridized with, am I correct, Detective?" "Exactly." Prof. Alva then turns to Mateus and Blake. "I've been thinking, on the last thing Madeline said to me." Said Prof. Alva. Mateus then turns to Prof. Alva. "What do you mean, Professor?" "Madeline made it clear that the work we did changed the world as we know it. She also asked what type of change I wanted it to be remembered as. That got me pondering, we humans have made grave mistakes not only to Pokémon, but also to ourselves. If we want to this change to be a positive one, we must also learn from the mistakes we have done in the past and apply them to the basis, so that they don't happen again." Blake then gives a chuckle. "Wise words, Professor. Let's make this a change for the better."
(A Few Weeks Later)
Just as Mateus answered, the International Police were successfully able to get all the new hybrids back home to their families. Additionally, The Aether Foundation and many other organizations also joined forces to help the hybrids adjust to their new changes and be able to return to society. In Alola, Ash and Serena were able to return home and spend time with their children. While in Unova, Kaihaku was finally able to be discharged from Castelia City Hospital and fully reunite with her family for the first time in years.
(A Few Days Later, Ketchum Residence, Melemele Island, Alola)
Mateus was visiting Ash and Serena at their home. "How does it feel to be back at the tranquility of your home?" Asked Mateus. "It feels nice, though a little strange after being on edge for several weeks." Said Ash. Mateus then chuckles. "Understandably so. How about you, Serena?" "It's been a very well needed and deserved de-stressing. The twins have also been more energetic since we've returned. So, that clearly states they've missed us. Eon." Said Serena.
(The trio then look at Wyatt and Stella who are gleefully playing with Pikachu.)
"They're adorable! I just want to hug them!" Said Ash. "The twins, Delphox, Pancham, Pikachu, my parents, our friends, all of your Pokémon, and you, Ash-kun, are my entire world." Said Serena. "I love you, Sweetheart." "I love you, too. Eon." Ash and Serena then rest their heads on each other. "Looking at your twins, it's reminded me why I took this case and, why I became a detective in the first place." Ash and Serena then look at Mateus. "Wh-What do you mean, Detective?" Mateus then closes his eyes. "It all started 19 years ago."
(19 Years Ago. New Bark Town, Johto)
"I was a 12 year old rookie trainer. I had just started my journey, taking on the Island Challenge, though I took a break to head back to New Bark Town to celebrate Johto's Summer Festival. Decidueye was a Rowlet and Buddy was an Eevee at the time. I was playing with my sister at the time. When…" Explained Mateus in the present. "Mateus. Can you do me a favor?" Asked Mateus' Mother. "Yes. What do you need?" Said a Younger Mateus. "Your brother is currently helping your father and others prepare for the festival, and they'll be home soon. Can you please head to the store and get me a few items." "Of course."
(Flashback Ends)
"Now in those days, New Bark was a relatively residential town. So there weren't any Poké-Marts, nor were there any Pokémon Centers, if you needed to heal your Pokémon in town, you had to go to Professor Elm's lab to do so. To get to the nearest Poké-Mart, you had to go to Cherrygrove City through Route 29." Explained Mateus. "So you went? Eon?" Asked Serena. "Yes, and I took Buddy and Rowlet with me. It was just as normal on the way to the Poké-Mart, but it was the way back that I saw something, that I would never forget."
(19 Years Ago. Route 29, Johto)
"Man. When we get back home, we'll play with Sis for a bit and then help Mom. I can't wait until dinner." Said a Younger Mateus. "Eevee!" Cried Buddy. "Rowlet!" Cried Rowlet in fear. Mateus then turns to Rowlet. "Row Let!" Mateus then looks up and sees a large cloud of smoke being released into the air. "That's from New Bark!" "I didn't hesitate, I dropped the bags of groceries and ran straight back to New Bark Town, hoping that nobody was hurt. Being 12 years old at the time, I was not prepared to see the sight that awaited me. When I did return, I saw my family home in flames. I was told that a gas line has burst and mostly everyone inside had died." Explained Mateus.
(Flashback Ends)
"My little sister was the only one that survived the initial explosion, but suffered from many third degree burns. She'd succumb to her injuries a few hours later. In the span of a few hours, I lost my entire family." Said Mateus, who had tears in his eyes. "Th-That's Horrible!" Said a shocked and tear filled Serena. "It doesn't end there, the detectives and investigators discovered during a months long investigation that the utility provider that provided gas to our home had ignored safety protocols, made faulty repairs, and overlooked crucial flaws during inspections all throughout Johto, they were then sued by many of their customers and even some businesses. I declined to take part in the suit and my family's insurance company offer to rebuild the home." "Because nothing could bring them back." Said Ash. "Exactly. Ultimately, I gave Professor Elm, a family friend, permission to sell the land, and though I declined, he insisted that he pay me the exact amount the land was sold for. Which would happen a few years later." Serena then turns to Mateus. "So how did you go on the path to be a detective? Eon?" "Before I went back to Alola, I had managed to get ahold of one of the detectives and asked him a couple of questions. I don't remember the exact questions and answers, but I remember wanting to be a detective, so that, if I could, I would prevent other families from feeling what I had to feel that day." "Detective, have you been to Johto since then?" Mateus then turns to Serena. "No. I have not. Every time I think about the region, I always feel the emotions of that day." "Maybe, you could try to go back for a visit, so that you could get some closure? Eon?" "I appreciate the sentiment, but to go back is a thought I can't fathom." Ash then gets up. "Mateus, when my mom died, and I saw her be buried. It was hard to go back to her grave at first, but eventually, with help from Misty and Brock, I was finally able to get the necessary closure needed to make peace." "How?" "A year after I lost my mom, I ran away after one of Misty's outbursts since it wasn't a good day for me. After I explained everything to them. They slowly, but surely helped me heal and before I knew it, I was able to finally make peace with mom's passing. Do I wish she was still here? Of course, but making peace with one's death can help close a gap in your heart. Ultimately, it's your choice. But, think about it." "I will."
(Mateus then leaves the Ketchum Residence.)
"So, you're probably wondering happened after that. Don't worry, I'll give you the rundown!" Said the Narrator.
(Six Months Later, Castelia City, Unova)
"Due to the large scale of the kidnappings and experimentation, Madeline Archer was sentenced to life in prison, In addition to losing her accreditation and job. All those involved with her actions were given sentences of varying degrees depending on their involvement. Also, Serena was employed by the Aether Foundation to help assist and be a teacher to the new Hybrids." Said The Narrator.
(Six Months Later, Lumiose City, Kalos)
"One year after the conclusion of the case, Clemont and Korrina were able to get married. This time, it was Ash who had the honor of marrying the couple together. The wedding was a party of happiness and love, just like Ash and Serena's wedding before them. Later that same year, Mallow would assume full ownership of her family's restaurant, Aina's Kitchen, upon her father's retirement."
(One Year Later, Vermillion City, Kanto)
"A year after that, it was Goh and Chloe's wedding. Ash once again had the honor of marrying the couple together. Going with a simple wedding, it was one that was intimate and warming. Lillie would also assume leadership of the Aether Foundation soon after. Additionally, Amelia evolved later that year, becoming a Leafeon-Human Hybrid.
(One More Year Later, New Bark Town, Johto)
"After several years of pondering, Mateus would decide to go back to Johto, and return to New Bark Town to make peace with the loss of his family. Upon arriving, The Alolan Detective saw that the land his family home once stood was repurposed foe a new home and saw a memorial that was in place for the victims of his family tragedy. He would also catch up with Professor Elm and learn what happened after he had left for Alola. Meanwhile, Clemont and Korrina would eventually form a family of their own, welcoming their son, Citriko."
(One Additional Year Later, Castelia City, Unova)
"Professor Alva would also have some notable moments in his life, as not only did he get to see his daughter Hilda, get married to N. But he also got to marry his son, Hilbert and his fiancée, Bianca, together."
(Present Time, Ketchum Residence, Melemele Island, Alola)
Now, five years have since passed since Madeline Archer's experimentations, and we look at the Ketchum Residence on a warm, but breezy night. Camping in the backyard, Ash, who is wearing a blue vest with yellow outlines, a white short sleeved shirt with a red stripe underneath his vest, indigo shorts with black accents, and black and blue sandals, along with a red hat with a black stylized Poké Ball design, can be seen relaxing by a fire pit with his two children, Wyatt and Stella, who are wearing a t-shirt and shorts, by his side. "Daddy, why did we decide to camp in the backyard again? Vui?" Asked Stella. "Because, dear, I figured it's best we spend some time outside looking at the beautiful night sky." Said Ash. "It's beautiful, but I'm feeling sleepy. Eeeeeveeeeee." Said Wyatt as he was yawning. "But, then you'll miss out on dinner. Eon." Said Serena who was walking out with food. Serena is seen wearing a charcoal black turtleneck tank top with a red and white plaid patterned skirt, a pair of strawberry red bow like earnings, a pair of black colored stockings, along with a pair of brown and black long boots, topping it with a steel gray colored felt hat. In addition, her bubblegum pink hair is now cut in left side swept bangs style that is tucked behind both of her ears. Wyatt then perks up. "Ooh, Food!" Serena then turns to Ash after she places the food down on the table. "I also think it was an excellent idea to spend some time outside in the night sky as a family." "I also have one other reason. Close your eyes."
(Serena then closes her eyes, after which Ash pulls out a small gift wrapped box.)
"You can open them now." Said Ash. Serena then opens her eyes. "Happy 10th anniversary, Sweetheart." "Ash-kun! You remembered! Eon!" Said a shocked but gleeful Serena. "How could I ever forget the day we became a couple." Serena then opens her gift, which is revealed to be a bubblegum pink bracelet. Which she quickly closes the box for. "Did you seriously pretend to forget so that you could give it to me now?" "I did. I wanted to present it in a way that was as special as you are." "Ash, I love you. Eon." "I love you too, Serena." "Mommy? Daddy?" Asked Stella. "We're all hungry, Can we eat now?" Asked Wyatt. Ash and Serena then look at their children and Pokémon before walking towards them.
(A Few Hours Later)
"I can't wait to see Uncle Clemont and Aunt Korrina tomorrow! Vee!" Said Wyatt. "Me too. I want to see Cousin Citriko so badly. Vui. Is Uncle Goh and Aunt Chloe coming as well?" Asked Stella. "Unfortunately, they are not. Their lives as researchers make it very hard for them to find free time." Answered Ash. Stella then pouts. "Aww." "I have a question for both of you, what type of Eeveelution-Human Hybrid do you wish to be when you grow up? Eon?" Asked Serena to her children. Wyatt then perks up. "I'll go first! I want to be an Umbreon-Human Hybrid! I want to be just like Buddy, looking fierce, intimidating, and awesome!" Ash then turns to his son. "Mateus' Umbreon, Buddy is inspiring. I think that's an excellent choice." Serena then turns to her daughter. "What about you, Stella? What would you like to evolve into?" "I-I I want to be a Sylveon-Human Hybrid, just like you Mommy, you're amazing at what you do and, I want to be like that. Vui." Ash then turns to his daughter. "Dear. Your mother is also inspiring, and that's one of the reasons I married her. Both of you have made excellent choices." Ash then looks at Serena, who is seen to be blushing hard at Ash's words.
(Stella then looks up at her parents.)
"Mommy? Daddy? How did you two get together?" Asked Stella. "Yeah, you two never told us. Vee." Said Wyatt. Ash and Serena then look at each other before firmly nodding. "Ha-ha. Sit down kids. It's a long story." Said Ash.
*End of Interlinked*
Question 1: What was the thinking process of naming the story "Interlinked"?
Answer 1: This was, once again, relatively simple. "Interlinked" was the culmination of personal journeys of Ash and Serena's gradual shift from being friends to lovers to a family.
Question 2: What was the writing process of "Interlinked" like?
Answer 2: Overall, it was fun, but very time consuming. I made the writing plans for "Interlinked" to begin in August of 2022 and end in October at the latest. However, due to a whole bunch of factors, I wound up finishing the writing process in June of 2023.
Question 3: What was the hardest chapter to write?
Answer 3: The hardest chapters to write was Chapter 20, mainly due how hard it was to find a point where it was acceptable to wrap it up.
Question #4: Why was there a greater emphasis of Mateus Cobalt in this story?
Answer #4: The empathsis on Mateus is actually part of an idea I utilized in this trilogy for Serena, Ash, and Mateus. If you look at each story in a different way, you'll see that each of these stories highlight a struggle for each character. "Intertwined" highlighed the struggle of Serena in overcoming her mental hurdles and adapting to a new, wider world, that was different from the experiences she had from being experimented on by Team Rocket. "Interweaved" showcased the struggle of Ash having to juggle the attention of being a champion and the stress of dealing with a seemingly forced, but ultimately non-existent love triangle. The idea of "Interlinked" was to show the struggle of Mateus trying to solve the case, not just because of the high stakes involved, but also from his past.
Question 5: Why did you make Dr. Madeline Archer the antagonist?
Answer 5: The idea that I had for "Interlinked" in regards to the antagonist, was to make it a person who was close with Professor Alva in the past. Surprisingly, however, it wasn't initially meant to be Dr. Archer, it was actually supposed to be Hilda. However, as I developed the story further, it came as a better idea for his former assistant to be the antagonist as opposed to his daughter. That's where the idea for Dr. Archer came from. As to why I named her "Madeline", it was because Madeline sounded like an innocent name for a female, which kinda makes it ironic since it's not a first name you think of for an antagonist.
Question 6: Are there any ideas you left out for "Interlinked"?
Answer 6: Yes. There was one, that Idea was Mateus Cobalt being in a romantic relationship with Valerie. In Chapter 17 of "Interweaved", it was stated that Mateus and Valerie knew each other for a long time. I left this idea out since their relationship was a close friendship at best, and it's hard for a romance to build when there's a worldwide, heavy implication case on your mind.
Question 7: With the "Tied in Love" trilogy now over, where do you go from here?
Answer 7: My next project is currently in the developmental stage. You'll see it when it's ready. That's all I'm going to say for now.
If you have a question or would like to leave constructive criticism, feel free to leave it in your review if you're interested.
To all those who have Favorited and/or Followed The "Tied in Love" Trilogy: Thank you! It brings me joy to know that you enjoy reading these stories as much as I do writing them.
I hope you all have an excellent weekend. See you all next time.
