A/N: Wow, I have nothing to say at all. To put it simply, I graduated HS and completed my first year of College. Now in the summertime, I have a lot of time, except for summer classes for easy credit, and I should be able to write again. But knowing myself, I will get caught up in school and not even write as much. So expect fewer, if not, no more updates from now. But I will try to continue my writing if I can. Anyway, enjoy the third part of the story.

Also, in this story, I am going to use a couple of references from a TV show that I am binge-watching (Now a personal favorite). Hope you figure it out, it shouldn't be too hard.

Something didn't feel right. The air was cold, his movement was restrained and he couldn't breathe. He was trapped, with nowhere to escape. He struggled and squirmed until he suddenly fell. He landed on the blue carpet of his room and he let out a groan when he landed on his back.

Opening his eyes, Ash found himself on the floor belonging to his room. He'd recognize the blue floor coloring anywhere. Turning to his bed, Ash wondered where his best friend, Pikachu, and girlfriend, Latias, were. Wouldn't they be all over him for the fall?

Concerned by their absence, Ash stood up only to find nothing on his bed. Laid across the bed were stuffed plushies of various Pokemon. But laid on top of the bed was a disheveled blanket, one that Ash hadn't used since he was a small child. But now that he thinks about it, he did seem shorter than usual. His head was a foot taller than the bed. He looked back and gazed at the dark sky, it always made him calm when thinking.

But that didn't matter now, he had to find Pikachu and Latias. He quickly ran to his door and opened it quietly, he didn't want to wake his mom. As he made his way downstairs, he stopped as he noticed the glow of the lamp inside the living room. Peaking out of the stairway, he could see his mom wide awake.

Looking around, he found no sign of Pikachu and Latias. But with his mom there, he could ask where they were. He continued his walk until a knock at the door stopped him mid-step. Who would come over late at night?

Soon Delia walked over and opened the door and behind was Professor Oak. Delia smiled at the professor but his grim and somber expression made it die down.

"Hello Delia, can we talk?" Prof. Oak asked.

"Oh uh... sure," Delia said, worried about his state.

Ash looked on, intrigued by what must have happened to make Professor Oak sad. Hopefully, Delia could comfort him, she was always able to make anyone happy with that smile of hers. Looking at Professor Oak and his mom, he noticed that they looked younger. It was odd.

"What's wrong, what happened?" Delia asked.

Gulping, Professor Oak now looked at Delia with tears collecting in his eyes, threatening to escape. Ash gasped as he was going to walk down and ask what happened. Professor Oak started to hiccup for a bit but continued.

"Delia please listen. Your husband's plane malfunctioned... over the sea of Alola. It spun down *sniff* there were no survivors."

Silence, that's all there was.

Ash stood still as he couldn't believe what happened. He couldn't find the strength to stand anymore so he sat on the stairs. His hands covered his eyes as he wiped away any tears that were leaking. He needed to get out of there before they noticed him. As he walked up the stairs he overheard the conversation going on.

"What are you going to do now?" Professor Oak said.

"I-I don't know," Delia responded before breaking down, "I just don't know,"

As Ash reached his room, he collapsed inside. He slid down the door and looked at his hands, even now they looked small. But that doesn't make sense. But he knew already. This was the moment when his life was beginning to be full of pain. Not many would agree, he was always the cheery kid that everyone knew. But whatever happened when he wasn't?

His chest tightened as he began to cry. He was beginning to lose it. He crawled back to bed where he hugged himself close and cried. He remembered that he cried all night. But what made it worse this time was that he had no one with him. No Pikachu, Latias, or anyone to comfort him.

Present-day

He opened his eyes slowly. When his vision cleared he turned to the walls, they were different this time. Instead of the yellow walls of his room, they were white on all sides. Even the bed he was lying on was white, with white blankets and white pillows. Tossing the blankets to the side, he noticed that instead of his regular clothes, he wore a white cotton robe. Touching the robe, he found it very soft and comforting.

But where was he? Ash didn't care, because right now he was in pain. Nowhere physically but mentally and emotionally. He sat up on his bed with a lifeless look as he continued to look around his surroundings. His eyes finally landed in front of a door, there was a small tinted window on top letting someone behind see inside.

This worried Ash. Who could be behind the door? Whoever it was maybe he could get some answers. But just where he is, is all he cares about.

Then the door opened.

The Letter To Ash's Companions and Family

To the friends, family, and loved ones of Ash Ketchum.

I am writing to let you know that your son and friend Ash Ketchum has suffered a severe mental breakdown. The causes are unknown, and the person who brought Ash here is presumed to be of close relations. When Ash was brought in, he was in an unstable condition, near the worst case I've ever seen. And I have decided unanimously to keep Ash to watch over him.

This may be shocking, but he needs help. You may visit if you please, but you all who've received the letter know this. This is going to be hard on you as well as it is for Ash. And I need you to find someplace to meet, and bring comfort to each other, and to discuss what to do for Ash.

If you have any questions please contact me at xxx-xxx-xxxx.

Sincerely, Dr. Sidney Freedman

In the Kanto Region

Brock and Misty didn't say a word to each other as each of them read the letter again. They hoped that what they read had changed. But there was no change and they no sat in their seats in a restaurant. After hanging out with each other for a while, both Brock and Misty decided to grab some lunch but the mail order was delivered to Brock. Seeing that the stamp belonged to a mental institute, they decided to give it a read.

But hearing that Ash suffered a mental breakdown. 'What is this,' both of them thought as they recollected the young friend being the brightest happiest kid in the world. Granted that Ash has experienced some trauma as well.

This made Brock curse himself since he warned Ash about past trauma and the consequences. But he shouldn't have done that. He should have grabbed Ash by the shoulders and made him talk to anyone. But would that make Ash shut down, and not speak at all? Brock sighed as he had to calm down Misty who was gripping the paper and was nearly sobbing out loud.

"We're going to Delia, we have to tell her," Brock said.

Misty nodded as she continued to cry. They left after that and each grabbed the stuff necessary for a trip and headed to Pallet Town.

In Pallet Town, however, Gary Oak was tending to an unconscious Delia Ketchum who had received the same letter from the mental hospital. After calling Professor Oak about the situation, the said professor came by and, after caring for Delia, read the letter along with Gary. And now both of them were shocked.

"What is going on Gramps?" Gary asked.

"I have no idea Gary," Professor Oak responded as he looked at Gary, "I have no idea,"

In the Hoenn Region

"No," May said as she nearly dropped the letter.

"That can't be true," Max said as he sat next to his sister.

Both of them have returned on a short vacation. They thought that nothing too crazy or bad was going to happen. But this letter is saying otherwise. Now sitting on the couch of their parent's house, they were speechless.

"Ash... suffering a breakdown," Max said.

"But what could've happened? How could we not see it?"

"Well, Ash is always in the middle of dealing with legendary Pokemon," Max said.

"Well, we can't sit back. We need to go see him!" May yelled as she stood up.

"I know. But what about Ash's mom," Max stated.

"Yeah, she should be freaking out by now,"

Getting up after May, Max then grabbed her arm and began reaching for the nearby airport. "Well sitting around isn't going to help,"

"Yeah, I agree," May said as they continued to run.

In the Sinnoh Region

"Come on, why won't you battle me?" Barry groaned out.

In front of Barry was an old rival of Ash Ketchum, Paul. Paul and Barry sat across from each other inside a Pokemon Center. They hadn't seen each other in a while and began to talk about what they had been doing. Only to argue about who has gotten stronger. It was like the good days.

"Because the result will be the same," Paul nonchalantly answered.

"Oh yeah! Just because you're a gym leader doesn't mean you can defeat me so easily!" Barry shouted, pointing at Paul.

Paul in return shrugged as he continued to drink his tea. Ignoring Barry, Paul looked to see the active city full of people and Pokemon. He hummed to himself as he thought about how much he and everyone he's known had grown and matured over the last few years. And all because of one kid in Kanto.

Ash, his main rival, the only person he could call a friend, was probably the greatest person he could come across. But it's not like Paul would ever admit that. However, Paul would love to see Ash again and battle him again. Especially since he's participating in the World Coronation. And that he's high-ranking.

However, the sound of running footsteps caught his attention. Looking over to where he heard the footsteps he found Dawn. She was running towards them, a sheet of paper in her hands, and her eyes red. This made Paul pause along with gaining Barry's attention.

"Hey, what happened?" Barry questioned as he rushed to where Dawn was.

She didn't flinch when Barry quickly entered her view. She shook her head at him and handed him the paper. When she started walking to where Paul was seated did Barry read the paper? When he finished, his expression grew into immediate concern and worry for his friend. To think that someone like Ash Ketchum in a mental institute did not mix. And what about when Paul learns of what happened to Ash?

It was going to be a long day, and Paul knew that as well when he read the letter. On the outside, he was calm and stoic as ever, but on the inside, he was confused, angered, and saddened by what happened to his rival. He too, although he would never admit it, was lost just like Barry and the sobbing Dawn on his side.

'Just what happened, Ash?' Paul thought to himself as he set the letter aside and focused on his 'friends'.

In the Unova Region

Iris and Cilan were shocked by the letter in their hands. 'This cannot be happening,' Iris thought to herself.

"Such a sad taste, I hope you are doing well Ash," Cilan mumbled as he placed his hand towards his heart in respect.

"Even now you still have to act like a connoisseur," Iris nearly shouted when she heard Cilan's nonchalant tone.

"Well, what can we do Iris?" Cilan said to his friend. "We cannot help Ash in this type of situation,"

"Oh yeah, then what can we do!" Iris shouted in response.

"Well if you read the letter-"

"We did already!"

"Then you know that we have to go to his family for this right? We know that Ash is already in the care of the institute,"

"Yeah, well who even is this guy then? We don't even know him,"

"You know that everyone you don't know is a bad person. You know that Iris,"

"Oh, now you're taunting me. How nice of you to not care about Ash,"

"I do care. But as I was saying, the letter advises us to meet up with Ash's friends and family,"

"I know you do, but you are also the Unova Champion," Cilan pointed out as he began to walk.

Iris followed Cilan continuing the conversation, "I know that! Which is why I am tasking you to spread the message to his friends here in Unova,"

Cilan looked surprised about Iris's request and was about to hurry off until Iris raised her fingers at Cilan. "And when you are done, you'll head to Pallet Town. We should find out more by then,"

Cilan nodded, then continued on his way while Iris turned and walked in the other direction. While she wanted to help out as much as she could, she must do her duties as Champion. It's also worse since multiple reports of Ex-Team Plasma groups have been on the rise.

Sighing to herself, Iris wished she could join Cilan on his task of helping Ash.

Kalos Region

What was once a normal, boring day, turned into terror and fear. Clemont, Bonnie, and Serena sat around a couch in Prof. Sycamore's lab as they read the letter that was addressed to the friends and family of a certain Ash Ketchum. And like the others, they couldn't believe what they were reading.

"That's not possible," Clemont somberly stated, pushing his glasses up.

"I don't know what to say," Bonnie choked as she wiped the tears threatening to escape.

As both brother and sister wallowed in their woes, Serena was left by herself. Her head was spinning with a million thoughts per second, making her even more confused than before. What was all of this?

Is Ash suffering a mental breakdown?

That was impossible, not the boy who saved her when they were kids. Not the boy who always helped others. Not the boy... who risked his life for everyone. Serena then sighed to herself as she hated herself for not doing anything at all. How else could this have happened if Ash hadn't gone through all that pain after the Kalos league?

But another thing she hated herself was the jealousy of Ash's companions. Who were they? How did they involve themselves with him? But deep down, she shouldn't care too much about this. Ash can handle himself.

With a steel heart, Serena put those thoughts away. She will deal with them when the time comes, but now all that matters is her friend/crush who needs help. And she will do all that she can before leaving it up with the doctor holding Ash.

And now, she has some friends that need comfort. Standing up, she walked to where Clemont and Bonnie were sitting. It's what Ash would've done for them.

Alola Region

What was once a day of celebration turned sour when the news reached Alola. When the four classmates of Prof. Kukui reunited with Lillie and her family, they went back to the Pokemon school to celebrate. Lillie, her mother and coworkers, Gladion, Prof. Kukui, Prof. Brunet, and their newborn son, along with Sophocles, Kiawe, Lana, and Mallow celebrate together. Not only that but their Pokemon was grouped for the celebration so the news that arrived was gut-wrenching to the majority if not all the participants of the celebration.

It all started easygoing and everyone enjoyed themselves until a certain Rotom-Dex came flying through the crowd. "Alert! Alert! Incoming message for the friends and family of Ash Ketchum. Urgent! Urgent!"

Upon reading the message did the reactions of everyone present appear? Lillie became a crying mess along with the other female classmates as they comforted each other. Meanwhile, the male classmates including Gladion huddled together wondering if what they had heard was correct. And finally, the adults were on the other side figuring out what to do now that not only is Ash, their friend, and associate, but also Alola's only champion. And then there was Prof. Kukui comforting a crying Brunet, but deep down Kukui was shocked and confused about what to feel right now.

"Shh, it's ok. Everything will be okay," Kukui tried to soothe his wife's worry. But the opposite happened.

"But how!" Burnet shouted, quieting everyone around.

"Ash just suffered something horrible and you think it'll be ok?"

"Well..."

"No, this is something not many people can recover!" Brunet shouted which she regretted due to everyone's reactions.

"Look, even I don't know what to feel about this right now. But we need to be careful what to do next," Kukui reasoned to everyone.

"I say that we go to Kanto to figure out what to do, and even group up Brock and Misty,"

"But what can we do?" Gladion interrupted.

"I mean, I don't think Ash will be ready to even meet us. That's if he's stable enough,"

"I hate to agree but come on, this is Ash," Mallow said.

"He would always be there for us, why can we not be there for him?"

"I know how you feel Mallow," Lillie responded, resting her hand on Mallow's shoulder.

"Well, I say we go to Kanto, and group up with Brock, Misty, and Delia. And figure it out from here. I feel like we'll just mope around now," Lusamine proposed.

From there many other people joined in on the conversation. Meanwhile, Kukui and Brunet sat around in the back, each comforting each other silently away from the group. On the outside, they looked calm and stoic, thinking about the next thing to do for Ash. But on the inside, they hurriedly wondered what could have caused this to happen. They knew that Ash was special, they could see that in their 'son'. But they just don't know.

The whole conversation would last for a good hour with many people repeating what was known and the proposals for the near future. But what they didn't realize was that the news of Ash Ketchum, Alola's first champion, had reached and spread around the world. Many gym leaders Ash had faced, gave their condolences, with the region champions following behind.

The rivals of Ash were mostly surprised. Ash Ketchum who put their very skill and progress to the test, was hospitalized. That was something they never thought could happen. But they all similarly gave their respect one way or another to their rival.

However, Leon, was shocked when he learned the news. He's heard of Ash Ketchum, who wouldn't? Deep down, he was very excited to challenge Ash in the Master's eight, and even he knew that Ash would make it to the league. To see if Ash could dethrone Leon and become the champion of the world. And without a doubt, Leon believed that young Ash could pull it off. But seeing Ash out indefinitely brought his entire mood down. But as champion, he must put on a strong face and give his respect to the rising prospect.

With everything happening over the past few days, let's see where we left off with Ash.

Present time

"How are you feeling?"

Nothing.

"Any head pain, sudden emotional changes, mental changes?"

Nothing.

"Do you feel anything?" the doctor in front of Ash asked again.

'Nothing'

"Come on, anything?" the doctor asked.

This time Ash only moved his eyes toward the doctor, letting him know that he was at least paying attention. The doctor leaned back, relieved that the patient in front of him wasn't fully brain-dead. But that doesn't mean that this will be any less difficult.

Meanwhile, Ash looked away from the doctor and faced the Pokemon standing in front of the door the doctor came from. It was a Gardevoir. Having its arms crossed in front of her, the Gardevoir stood on guard, ready for any reaction from Ash. And this unnerved Ash.

"Do you need anything?" The doctor asked.

Turning to the doctor, Ash responded, "Who are you? Where is Pikachu, where is she...?"

Leaning forward, bringing his hands to his chin, he responded, "They've been sent back home. After they dropped you off here, I had to send them back for your recovery,"

"What even is left to recover from?" Ash depressingly said, looking back to the Gardevoir.

"Well, that's up for you to decide," the doctor said.

"What do you mean?"

"From what I can understand, you had your memories scrambled anew. It's going to take a lot to go through with each memory, ones that only you can face,"

"What? How is that possible?"

"You tell me..."

"Well... I don't know" Ash shrugged.

"Well then, that leaves one mystery" The doctor replied as he leaned back.

Seeing this, Ash leaned upwards on the bed and stretched for a bit. He didn't know what was going on or who the doctor in front of him was. But if he was to get out of here and go back home, he'd comply and do whatever is needed.

But right now they need to go over the most important thing at the moment.

"I still don't know your name," Ash said.

Leaning backward, the doctor let out a sigh as he could feel the Gardevoir's teasing glare behind him for not introducing himself to a patient. He did not look forward to her teasing but he answered Ash's question.

"I am Sidney Freedman. Dr. Sidney Freedman, Psychologist, and Therapist in the Viridian City's Asylum. The lovely Pokemon behind me is my partner Gardevoir, Margret Houlihan." Sidney finished his introduction before he leaned into Ash's ear and whispered.

"Don't let her hear this, but many patients here call her 'Hot Lips'" Sidney leaned back with a smirk knowing that the Gardevoir, while not hearing, had a good idea what the therapist said. She crossed her arms and huffed.

Ash smiled at the nickname for the Gardevoir, much to the relief of Dr. Sidney, and relaxed his posture. Ash looked at the therapist, "Wait, Viridian City... Asylum?"

"Yes, back in Kanto, near Pallet Town, your home?" Sidney asked for confirmation.

Ash nodded his head.

"Yeah," Ash confirmed before becoming more unsure of himself, until he asked again, "What about my Pokemon? Where's Pikachu and the others?"

"They're back in Pallet Town, as of now most of your friends and family have received word of your condition,"

Ash froze upon hearing the news of the whereabouts of his Pokemon. Now his friends and family... all know about his trauma. And worse is that Latias is probably worrying constantly back home with his mother. Ash was overthinking at this point and began to breathe at a quick pace. That was until a gentle shake from his shoulder stirred him from his thoughts.

"Are you ok?" Dr. Sidney Freedman asked.

Ash shrugged but he responded, "Yeah..."

"Any pain or discomfort"

"None"

"Physically?"

Ash looked away meekly.

Sidney sighed, he knows that many patients were always reluctant to discuss their feelings, trauma, or any problems that they are experiencing. But he never gave up on any patient, and the kid in front of him will be no different.

"You can talk to me. You know that," Sidney said.

"I know but I don't feel like it," Ash stubbornly responded.

'Finally some sort of emotion' Sidney thought to himself as he straightened himself.

"Come on now. Is it me or Pokemon behind me?"

Ash shook his head, "No, I don't trust many psychologists'. But I've seen many movies about you so I don't know,"

Sidney chuckled, "Well, luckily for you, I am a humanist,"

Quickly Sidney Freedman feels a light slap from Pokemon right beside him. Looking at her, he saw that little glare she gave him. He coughed and continued, "And Pokemon-ist"

"And what is that, exactly?" Ash asked.

"Well, a humanist/Pokemon-ist is a type of psychology practice where the therapist cares more about the individual than their mind or biology," Sidney explained. Ash nodded in response to the information. At least this type of therapy wouldn't be too bad, maybe it would be easy.

"Well, know this Ash. It won't be easy if we are to help you in your peculiar situation,"

"What do you mean?" Ash said, suddenly surprised.

"It may not be easy for you because to fix this, you're going have to dig deep in your memories. To get over those obstacles. But we will be there to help and support you," Sidney finished as the Pokemon behind nodded in agreement, a hopeful smile present on her face.

Ash looked back and forth between the two. The more he thought about it, the more he quietly accepted his fate being stuck here, for the moment. The quicker he did this, the quicker he could go back home. But, as the therapist said, it won't be easy. This is going to be painful to go back, Ash thought to himself as he got comfortable. 'Best to be prepared' Ash thought as he looked at the two only links to his escape.

Noticing Ash relaxing, Sidney began the questions.

"Want to talk about how it all started?"

Hesitating for a bit, Ash quickly answered, "I don't remember when it all started. But maybe the death of my father could have been the beginning,"

"I see. Were you a sociable kid or more reserved?"

"I always was outgoing, but I would get picked on by older kids," Ash responded rubbing his hair awkwardly.

"Hm, I guess that doesn't cause much trauma right?"

"You wouldn't know"

Sidney raised his eyebrow at that, but Ash quickly looked away.

"So do you know any trauma that you've recently experienced? Any major ones?"

"Well there's a lot I've been through, but with my mind 'scrambled' some just stick out more than the rest," Ash explained.

"Then how about the one that you can concentrate on then?" Sidney asked.

Sidney studied Ash's expression as the boy thought or remembered about it. He quickly noticed the look of fear and pain on Ash's face but quickly washed it away. 'That's one way to deal with it. But not even a good way to do so,'

Sidney quietly waved off the Pokemon next to him to leave the room. The Pokemon looked surprised but she wanted to refuse. But the look the therapist gave her. She had no choice on this one, so she silently left the room. Ash looked at the Pokemon leaving the room and then back to Sidney.

"Is everything I say here... confidential?" Ash said, not exactly knowing if he used the correct vocabulary.

"Yes everything here is confidential, no one else will know. Only me and you," Sidney confirmed.

Ash looked relieved about the confirmation. He shimmied a little bit and gave the therapist a look of pain that one could only endure for a long time. This wouldn't be a typical depressed action for those wanting to act like the part. This look, for once among other patients, was genuine and it greatly concerned Sidney.

"Have you ever seen someone die?" Ash unexpectedly said, catching Sidney off-guard with the question.

"Well... we all have to deal with death. It is a part of living you know," Sidney responded.

"No... more like you caused it and you did everything you could but nothing,"

"Then no," Sidney said, quickly concerned that the boy in front of him was hiding something more sinister.

Noticing the therapist' worry Ash began to remember.

Flashback to the Tree of Life

It was painful, to say the least. But Ash would carry on with a smile for his friends and Pokemon. Even when the world could end, there was no reason to go out miserably. He could do something before he could either fail or succeed. But even so, Ash would never give up.

His legs ached, his arms burned, and his eyes were strained in the bright aura light in front of him. He had to do this no matter what, to protect the mew inside the aura light in front of him. But he could do this with his newfound friend. A Lucario who was a thousand years old in front of him.

'Don't give up Ash, we are almost there' Lucario spoke with his aura.

"Yeah, we can do this. You and me," Ash grunted.

Suddenly the pain grew more and more. The light of the aura brightened and then nothing.

Present

"And then what happened?" Sidney asked.

"Something went wrong. It all stopped," Ash said, slowly but surely breathing at a fast pace.

"The aura stopped and I couldn't do anything," Ash quickly huffed, "It just stopped"

Flashback

The pain was everywhere now the light was growing brighter and Lucario grunted. Ash tried to get up but he couldn't. Instead, he tried to crawl back, he needed to get back. He could do this. But as his hands reached for the aura, he tried to help but nothing was happening.

"What's happening," Ash grunted, barely holding himself as he wobbled in his stances.

'Don't worry Ash. It had to be like this,' Lucario soothed.

"No, please... you can't" Ash begged as he quickly fell on his stomach.

Not one to give up, Ash tried to stand up but it was too painful to move. Having no other choice, Ash slowly and painfully crawled towards Lucario. He barely felt the fur when the light from before expanded and forced Ash back.

After a while, the light dimmed until it was no more. And a minute later, Ash had the strength to stand. Finding balance, Ash looked around and his breath hitched.

Present

*Huff*

"I killed him, I killed him," Ash said, tears threatening to exit his eyes.

"You killed Mew?"

Ash only shook his head as the painful memory returned. Only then were the tears slowly seeping out of its cells and running down the cheek. By now Ash was breathing heavily.

Flashback

Ash was numb everywhere, leaving him to feel nothing as he saw Lucario leaning on a boulder. Blood seeping out of the corner of its jaw. Lucario looked at Ash with a solemn, stoic expression before grunting in pain.

Ash sprinted towards Lucario but fell in front of him in exhaustion.

Present

"Oh my god, oh my god!" Ash sobbed as the memories became clear.

Flashback

Ash quickly crawled to Lucario and embraced him in a hug. The Lucario weakly raised one of his arms and wrapped it around Ash. By now Ash was huffing.

'There was no other choice, Ash,' Lucario explained but Ash ignored everything as he continued to sob in his chest.

Present

"I... I didn't mean to kill him! I... I just wanted to save the world together. But he left me behind! He promised to be with me and to train me... but where is he now!" Ash sobbed.

By now Ash was a sobbing mess, he was alone and never felt so alone. Everyone he knew was gone at the moment, leaving him here in this place of torment. But a hand landed on his shoulder in an attempt to comfort him.

Quickly looking up at Sidney, his misery turned into anger, "Why did you make me remember?"

"You had to get it out in the open. Now you're halfway home," Sidney explained.

Ash didn't believe a word that came out of the doctor's mouth but he saw it as a chance to change for the better maybe. But it will take a long, long time. With the tears flowing freely, he quickly ignored the therapist in front of him as he lay down in his bed.

Flashback

Ash cried on the Lucario for some time. He could hear Lucario but paid no mind. He was full of guilt and shame for doing... nothing. It was HIS fault for letting this happen. And he was going to pay for it. And as Ash held on to Lucario, he suddenly felt something. Looking up at the Lucario, Ash saw him smiling at Ash as the Lucario became transparent. He was dying!

Lucario closed his eyes as he disappeared in his hands until Ash held on to nothing. Ash kneeled there for a long time. Only it wasn't until his friends arrived with Mew did he snap out of it.

They asked if anything was wrong, and he said yes and that Lucario died. But he never told them about himself after that. He never talked about himself involving anything to his friends. But that's a problem for the future.

Present

Ash finally calmed down after he remembered one of his past traumas. He still remembers the whole event like it just happened. But now, he feels somewhat better letting it out. Maybe he could do this. He let out a shaky breath as he looked at the doctor in front of him. The doctor sat in a chair near his bed, looking at Ash. He was giving him a comforting smile.

"So...what now?" Ash asked.

"Now, you can rest. We still have a long way to go," Sidney responded.

"And what does that mean?"

"Well, I for sure don't know how long it will take for you to recover. But that's up for you to decide,"

"Up for me?"

"Yes. It seems going back to each memory, one by one makes you better. That's what my Gardevoir thinks," Sidney explained, side-eying his Pokemon who looked away unsure.

"Yeah, I guess so,"

"It may take months just to let you know,"

"I know,"

"Then I'll let you think about it," Sidney said as he stood up and made his way to the door.

Now that Ash was by himself again, he figured he had nothing to do. So he laid down again and this time fell asleep, wishing to see Pikachu, Latias, or anyone he knew again. His eyes closed and dozed off, hoping to see anyone again soon.

In the Hall of Origins

"What!"

*Stomp*

"Have!"

*Stomp*

"You!"

*Stomp*

"DONE!"

*Crack*

The sound of a broken collarbone bounced across the room, as Arceus stomped his steel hoof on Mewtwo's back. When Arceus saw Mewtwo attempt to pitifully get up, he quickly sent another steel hoof on Mewtwo's stomach launching him. Mewtwo flew across the room in the eyes of many spectators until his back landed in a pillar.

"Do you have any idea what you've done!" Arceus yelled out loud.

This earned no response as Mewtwo was laid out on his stomach. Arceus looked around the room, full of legendary Pokemon from each region. He wasn't surprised to see them stoic and quiet. All the while the younger ones were nearly on the verge of crying in fear.

"Do you know how much my champion has given up for each of us?" Arceus asked, receiving no answer.

"He did a lot for us without anything in return,"

Many, if not, all of the Pokemon in the room were speechless. They were stunned but most of all they were fearful of the being in front of them. Many considered Arceus as a friend, and a father figure. And to see Arceus this livid, especially towards a single Pokemon. Let's not forget that it involves Ash Ketchum. The reminder that there was a common rule involving all of the legendary Pokemon. 'Never mess or hurt Arceus's champion'. And every Pokemon in the room had taken a liking to Ash Ketchum one way or another. And now, they feel bad for whoever has broken that rule.

Another crack brought the room's attention as Mewtwo was flung across and collided with a pillar. Leaving a cracked web upon the pillar where Mewtwo collided made most Pokemon wince.

Painfully lifting himself, Mewtwo didn't see the looming god above him. A hoof quickly put him down on the floor, making Mewtwo gasp in pain.

"Give me one reason why I shouldn't vaporize you on the spot," Arceus hissed.

Before anyone could answer, much less do anything, another Legendary shot in front of Arceus.

"Mew!" Mew yelled, staring down Arceus.

The stare-down lasted for seconds, too many, was too long and too suspenseful. Thankfully, Arceus huffed before floating away as many other legendary Pokemon quickly moved out of the gods' way. With that, the others left without saying much, their minds already mashed full of emotions and confusion. Soon, it was only Mew and Mewtwo left.

Mew, seeing everyone leave, turned to the downed Mewtwo and quickly floated toward the injured Pokemon. Gently raising its arms Mew used a healing move to help Mewtwo but he quickly raised his arms in front of Mew.

"Don't..." Mewtwo gasped, as he tried to push himself off the ground only to painfully flop back down on his stomach.

Mew gave a wary smile as the Pokemon knew Mewtwo's stubbornness to refuse help. This forced Mew to ignore Mewtwo's denial of help and began to heal him, much to Mewtwo's annoyance. As Mew was healing Mewtwo the injured Pokemon spoke.

"I messed up royally this time?"

"Mew," Mew agreed, nodding.

"I guess I'll have to do something for everyone then..." Mewtwo said before falling limp.

"Mew," was all that Mew said, patting Mewtwo's shoulder before finally finishing healing the Pokemon.

Floating backward, Mew looked to where Arceus floated off, concern etched on its face. Mew was the happy-go-lucky Pokemon that everyone knew. But deep down, now wasn't the time for games. Everyone has to recover from recent events.

'Yeah, recent events,' Mew thought, thinking about the certain kid who was indisposed at the moment.

'Yeah, things will get better soon,' Mew gleefully thought before floating off.

Back at Viridian City

There were a few times that Ash was scared for his life. And very few times that he was, it wasn't as bad as he was now. But Ash never showed signs of his growing fear. All that one could see was Ash's cold stare in the corner of his room. But there was nothing that Ash was staring at.

Looking towards the window, Ash found comfort in the night sky. With a little smile etched on his face, Ash began to remember the guardian of the moon, Lunala. Then his thoughts shifted to Solgaleo, the one Pokemon that Ash raised that turned out to be an important Pokemon to the world. But his thoughts turned sour. How is everyone? Are they ok?

'It's so very lonely, you're two-thousand light years from home!' Ash sang to himself.

Ash slowly turned back to the corner he once stared at. This time Ash was surprised to find that he wasn't alone this time. The same 'being' causes his fear.

On the same corner Ash was looking at, beyond the pitch-black shadow of the room was a pair of pale white eyes, glowing ominously. Ash's breath hitched as the figure slowly stepped out into the moonlight. And it was a Lucario?

The Lucario, slowly yet steadily, limped its way into the moonlight, revealing its nightmarish form to Ash. The Lucario's white eyes glowed was the only thing Ash took notice of until the Lucario flashed Ash with an eerie smile. Now its teeth glowed ominously, just like its eyes. But there was a drip of blood crawling between its teeth, slowly dripping until more droplets began pouring.

Ash slowly curled upright, noticing Lucario staring directly into himself, into his soul. As the Lucario took notice of the boy in front of it, Ash was doing the same. Blood was painted on most of Lucario's fur. Instead of its blue fur, it was at least half covered in blood while the parts of the body not covered in blood instead showed bruises. Ash winced, making the Lucario grin wider.

'You killed me, Ash,' the Lucario spoke, its mouth never indicating that it spoke.

'No' Ash thought, shaking his head.

'It's true,' the Lucario taunted taking a step closer.

'No!' Ash yelled in his mind. He tried to look away, but some unseen force kept his head fixed on the shambling Lucario.

'Yes, and what I will do to you will be nothing compared to this,' The Lucario said as its bloody, glowing white teeth widened its unnatural smile.

"No!" Ash screamed as he closed his eyes, a childish attempt to ward off the monster in front of him. But when Ash opened his eyes again, the monster was still there. But it wasn't a Lucario now.

'And after what you did to me, you claim my sister for yourself' The monster claimed.

Standing, or floating, in place of the monster wasn't Lucario, instead, it was a Latios. And a familiar one as well. The Latios floating in front of Ash have the same bloody features as the Lucario before. Glowing white eyes and teeth, with blood dripping down the ground. However, around the chest area of the Latios was a gaping hole, slowly oozing out blood.

Noticing Ash was staring at the chest wound, the creature continued its mocking, 'Yes, even after 'I' sacrificed myself for you and your pathetic friends. You had to nerve to fake tears for my sister. And years later, at her lowest point, she turned to you and only you,'

'That's not true at all. I mourned you, and I tried my best with Tia, but I had to leave. She came to me.' Ash tried to explain.

'Enough excuses, you will pay!' The Latios yelled, cutting off Ash's explanation. Slowly, cracks of jawbone could be heard as the Latios Jaw slowly opened to inhuman widths. Slowly the Latios approached Ash.

Ash could do nothing as the creature in front of him approached, intending to give Ash his punishment. Deep down Ash thought he deserved it. But what would his friends think, what would Latias think of it? But Ash paid no mind as the darkness erupting from Latio's jaw soon covered his sight. And all that Ash felt or saw was nothingness. But slowly a warm feeling erupted from his chest.

'Turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream!

It is not dying! It is not dying!'

Suddenly Ash awoke with a cold sweat. Quickly leaning upwards from his bed, he also noticed a feathery weight on his chest. Looking down, he noticed the sleeping form of Latias on him. Smiling, Ash rested his hand on top of Latias' head, rubbing for his comfort. A purr was the response Latias gave before she suddenly opened her eyes.

The first thing she noticed was Ash, gently petting her. Tears welled up in her eyes as she let out a squeal before hugging him. Ash eagerly returned the hug as he finally saw a familiar face in quite a while. Latias slowly broke the hug and gave Ash a quick kiss. Before Ash could do anything, she pulled back and began to sob into his chest.

"Hey, it's ok. I'm here" Ash soothed, rubbing the Latias.

"La, Latia" Latias responded, taking Ash by surprise, but he didn't show it.

"But I think I know what I have to do," Ash said, gaining the attention of Latias.

"La..."

"I'm going to stay here. At least for a while," Ash said, shocking Latias who began to voice her displeasure.

"I know, I know. But this is the only way to get better... once and for all," Ash said, as he laid his forehead on Latias's own head.

"And I need you to be strong. Everyone back home has to be strong and that won't happen without you," Ash said, gently pointing his fingers on her head.

"And I promise to come back someday. And I intend to keep that promise," Ash said.

"La! Tias!" Latias yelled in disagreement.

Ash quickly quelled her disagreement but hugging her close to his chest.

"Please, I need to do this. It's the only way." Ash said, staring into her eyes, pleading.

Latias said nothing as she hugged Ash again, silently sobbing. But quickly she eased his worries by giving him a nuzzle of agreement. Ash smiled as he pulled Latias close to him as he lay down on the bed. Gently raising the sheets, the Latias nuzzled next to Ash as they got ready to sleep. And when sleep came, Ash did not experience any nightmare again, nor any signs of dreaming. Just a comfortable sleep with Latias by his side.

And when Ash awoke the next day. He was alone. But Ash wasn't worried as this was the beginning of a new chapter. And just then, the door opened...

A/N: That's the end of this chapter. I plan for a fourth and final one-shot of this set of stories. If you didn't get the references that I mentioned earlier, then it was M*A*S*H. I love the show, and due to recent events in my life (I'm fine by the way) I've gotten interested in what the show has confronted. This led to my reasons to explore Ash's psyche since he's just a kid saving the world. All that stress would be impossible to deal with. It's a wonder how Ash held it all together throughout his journey. One more thing, with the M*A*S*H references and characters, I don't want to make it a crossover. Each character is their own unique character, they never served, nor dealt with a lot of trauma like in the show. They are just they're doing their job, like Sidney (Only Sidney is referenced. I do not know if I want to include other characters yet).

Hope you enjoyed it. (Sorry for the lack of updates. Expect few or no more updates after this)