A New Path

by TheCouchEffect

Ash has finally achieved his dream after so many years. He has become the champion of a Pokemon league. Despite this victory, he feels lost with no sense of direction. Weeks after his victory, he is framed for a crime he didn't commit. Unwilling to accept guilt, he will be drawn into a battle to clear his name and bring Team Rocket to justice before they can become unstoppable.

20. Good Intentions

Hoenn, Ever Grande Conference, Five Years ago

Once every year, Trainers from across the Hoenn region gathered at the Ever Grande Conference to test their might. Each of them were the best of the best. They'd traveled across the region, bested the most powerful Gym Leaders in the land, and gathered teams of powerful Pokemon. All to prove who among them deserved the opportunity to challenge the Elite Four and the Champion.

It was Ash's third time taking part in a regional tournament. While he'd been nervous his first two times, the experience had always been more exhilarating than terrifying. This time, there were no nerves to work through. Just a simple desire to see how much he'd grown.

To his credit, he'd done well. Most of the opponents he faced had been no match for him. For a moment, it even seemed like he might actually pull out his first ever League victory.

Alas, it was not to be. No matter how much he'd grown or how hard he fought, he still wasn't good enough. His rival, Tyson, had been the stronger one among them during their match, even if only just. Despite his loss, however, Ash still felt pride in how far he made it.

Making it to the top eight was nothing to scoff at.

It had been a couple of hours since the end of the tournament. Tyson had gone on to win it all, just like he predicted. Everyone was celebrating now at the afterparty. Most were busy mingling with each other, having friendly battles, or enjoying the feast that the League had prepared.

Ash had too… for a little while.

Eventually, though, he'd slipped away. Everyone was too busy with other things to notice. Even Pikachu was too busy raiding the kitchen to pay attention to his Trainer. Not that he blamed them, of course. This was the time to celebrate and let loose. No need to focus on anything else.

At the moment, Ash was leaning over the railing of the pier. This late at night, the stars were shining brightly and reflected perfectly over the clear, calm waters of the ocean. He didn't know long he'd been out here thinking, but it must have been a while. The music from the celebration had changed multiple times by now.

Someone cleared their throat behind him and broke through his thoughts. Frowning, he glanced back to see who it was. Once he realized it was May, a tiny smile quickly replaced his frown.

Not that either of them noticed.

"Hey, May. What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be celebrating?"

"I should be the one asking you that." May moved forward and leaned on the railing next to him. "Is something wrong? You disappeared from the party pretty fast back there."

He blinked. And here he'd thought he'd been so subtle, too. "I'm fine. No need to worry."

The brunette girl scoffed. "You really think that's all it'll take to convince me?" She frowned. "Come on. You can trust me. What's wrong?"

He shifted in place and looked away. "Nothing's wrong. I'm just thinking, is all."

"Ash Ketchum thinking? Someone call the press! It's a miracle." She teased. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't stop himself from smiling. "Ha! A smile! Just what I was hoping for."

"Very funny." He drawled.

She bowed dramatically, holding her arm out to the side in a flourish. "I try." Giggling, she stood back up and hung over the railing. "So… what were you thinking about? Must be pretty serious if you skipped out on the buffet."

"It'll still be there when I get back." He argued.

"Maybe, but the best bits will be gone by then."

True enough. It was a sacrifice he had to make, though. He didn't want his melancholy to ruin the festivities for anyone else. Better to take himself somewhere secluded until it went away.

He sighed. "You sure you want to know?"

"Positive."

Guess he had no choice, then. "I'm thinking about the tournament. How far I got and all the people I fought. My loss."

May frowned, reaching out to place her hand on his shoulder. "Are you okay? With how it all ended, I mean?"

He didn't answer right away. Truth be told, he wasn't sure. His Pokemon had given their all and brought Tyson to the brink of defeat. While he may not have been the final opponent, no one in the tournament could deny he had been the toughest contender his rival faced.

He was proud… but disappointed at the same time. A whisker breadth had decided the final clash between Pikachu and Meowth. If Pikachu had been the one to stand up instead, or he had dodged a single extra attack, or landed just one strike more… victory could have been his.

It was hard not to let it get to him.

"Not entirely." He admitted. "But there's not much I can do about it. It was a great battle and Tyson deserved his win. He earned it."

"Maybe. It still feels wrong that you couldn't at least get second place." She said. "You were way better than anyone else he battled."

"It's just the way things are. They have to structure tournaments somehow." Ash shrugged. "Still, it's the best I've done yet. I'm happy to have made it this far."

"How did you do in the other Leagues? Max says you made it far for someone so young, but I never asked what happened." May said.

"Well, I did great in Johto. Managed to make it to the top eight there as well. Beat my biggest rival, Gary, and almost everyone else I went up against." He told her. "Even gave the one who beat me such a tough battle, his ace – Blaziken - couldn't fight in the next battle thanks to my Charizard. Wound up costing him the tournament."

Not that he thought he could have won that one. While his battle against Harrison may have been just as close as the one against Tyson, he'd seen the finale of the Silver Conference. Harrison had been so soundly beaten that Blaziken wouldn't have made a difference either way.

May tilted her head to the side. "What about Kanto?"

"Oh. I made it to the top sixteen. No big deal."

"No big deal? I doubt most other first time Trainers would call it that." She remarked. "How did you lose?"

… why did she have to ask that? Couldn't she have just been satisfied with the easy answer? He considered dodging the question, but that would only work for so long. He didn't want to lie to her either.

An embarrassed groan escaped him. "Charizard wouldn't listen to me."

"Why not?" She asked.

He blinked. She wasn't laughing? That was new. Most people couldn't stop laughing or mocking him for his loss back then. He couldn't blame them, either. Who entered a tournament with a Pokemon who wouldn't obey?

"He didn't respect me. I was so weak and arrogant back then. It's not hard to see why he didn't want to fight for me." He paused. "That's not to say he didn't care. Whenever I was in danger, he was the first one to fight for me. He just… didn't want any part of battling for me."

"Things got better, though, right?" May asked. "They must have if he helped you get so far in Johto."

"They did. Once I showed him I cared about more than just his strength." He admitted. "Respect is a delicate thing with your Pokemon. If you lose it, you have nothing."

He knew May would never have to worry about this. Despite her rocky start, she was an amazing Trainer. She'd never have to worry about losing the respect of her team. Not if she kept being so kind and caring.

"Anyway, that's why I'm not too sad about my loss. It sucks, but I still made it far." He smiled. "This just means I'll have to train even harder for the next League. I've got nowhere to go but up!"

She giggled. "That's what I like about you, Ash. No matter what happens, nothing can keep you down."

"It's a lesson I learned a long time ago. Success isn't everything. If all you ever do is succeed, you'll never learn or grow. Eventually, you'll just stagnate." Ash looked up towards the moon hanging high in the sky. "It's helped me realize that loss is just a way to grow. In a way, it's more valuable than any win ever could be."

She stared at him in shock for a moment. "That's really wise, Ash. Who taught you that?"

He chuckled, a teasing glint in his eye. "Would you believe me if I said I stole it from a cereal box?"

She joined in on the laughter and socked him on the shoulder. "Be serious!"

"Alright, alright." He held up his hands in mock surrender under her unstoppable assault. "You probably wouldn't know him, but it was a Gym Leader in Kanto. Surge, the Lightning Lieutenant."

"Who's that?" She asked.

"One of the toughest Gym Leaders in the entire region." He told her. "Lots of Trainers never make it past him in their journey. He's… brutal. Like lightning personified."

He even vaguely remembered hearing a story about how he once fought against Kanto in something called the "Great War". Ash wasn't sure what they meant by that, though. Whenever he tried to ask any adult, they got real quiet and changed to topic.

It must have been bad if people didn't want to talk about it.

"Woah. He sounds tough. I think even my dad might struggle against him." May said. "So, he told you this after your battle?"

"Not in so many words." He admitted. "It was something I had to figure out for myself. Brute force was never going to work against him. So, we had to focus on using our speed to outmaneuver him instead."

It was one of the most important lessons any Trainer could learn. All Pokemon had their own strengths and weaknesses, but most were neglected in favor of whichever could hit the hardest. Learning to use the Pokemon you had to the best of their ability was what separated the good Trainers from the bad.

"It seems to be something you've taken to heart. You're a bit too clever to just use brute force." May said. "I'm glad you're not too bummed out by your loss, though. Here I was thinking I'd need to give a big motivational speech to help you out."

"What? Wanted to return the favor?" He teased.

She blushed, looking away. It was weirdly cute. "Is it so wrong I wanted to help you if you needed it?"

"Nope." He popped the P. "It's nice to know someone cares for me that much. Even if it's jumping the gun."

She snorted. "Keep talking like that, and maybe next time I won't."

It was an empty threat, and they both knew it. They'd always be there for each other.

No matter what.

"Anyway, you can head back. I'll be fine on my own." He told her. "Maybe save me some of those eclairs if any are left."

May pursed her lips and tapped her chin, cocking her hip to the side. "Hmmm… nope!"

He blinked. "What?"

"Nope!" She repeated. "Party's no fun if you aren't there with me. So, I'm not going back."

"You sure about that? You're missing out on all the food and the chance to mingle with everyone." He pointed out.

Rather than say anything to refute him, she hooked her arms around his elbow and dragged him behind her. Soon enough, they left the pier and stepped onto the cool sands of the nearby beach. The whole time they walked, his stomach was in knots and he could feel his face heating up.

What was going on!?

"Where are you taking me?" He asked.

"Isn't it obvious? A walk along the beach!" She said. "Come on! It'll be fun, I promise. It's bound to be better than you standing on a pier by yourself for Arceus knows how long."

Ash laughed, relaxing in her grip and shuffling closer to her. When she was right, she was right. May had a way of making even the most boring things interesting. If she was with him, he guessed he could stop brooding for a bit.

"Alright. You win. Not sure what you think we'll see, though."

"It's not about what we'll see or do, Ash. Sometimes, all that matters is who you're spending time with." May said.

A warm smile wormed its way onto his face. "Yeah… I guess you're right. No one I'd rather do this with than you."

"Heh. Feeling's mutual, charmer."

---

Interpol was many things. In the eyes of the public, they were the inferior version of the Pokemon Rangers. Weaker, less competent, and far less stylish. To their allies, they were a group of criminals that received a government paycheck and bent the rules to their liking. For their enemies, they were often the monster that hid in the shadows waiting to strike.

The truth was far more complicated.

Its physical might had grown to rival that of any Regions. Their web of influence was felt in every hall. Through careful diplomacy and the trade of key favors, they could shake any government to its foundations. They had eyes and ears at every door and within every shadow. No secret was beyond their reach.

That was the source of their power. A diplomat's gentle touch in the midst of an ongoing crisis. The keen eye of an agent finding hidden knowledge. The strength to respond to wherever they were needed.

Few groups could stand up to Interpol's full strength.

They were the guardians of the world. If they failed, untold suffering would follow.

In light of this, Interpol kept a constant vigil. Agents infiltrated dangerous groups and investigated sectors of the world at risk of flare up. Any hint of danger was assessed, and if necessary, eliminated as ruthlessly as possible.

At one particular listening post in Hoenn, an operator sat behind their desk. Day after day, they and others like them scoured the internet for leads, filed paperwork, and aided field agents as best they could from behind the scenes. Dull as it may have been, it was an essential part of Interpol's infrastructure.

Just when it started to seem like it would be another boring day, the phone on the desk rang. It was a line meant to only be used by deep cover operatives and trusted informants. The operator frowned and picked it up. As the speaker went on, the operator narrowed their eyes and listened carefully. With each passing second, his frown deepened and his pencil scribbled against the notepad on his desk.

The Commander would need to hear about this.

---

The two weeks prior to the start of the Falling Star Festival came and went in the blink of an eye. Soon enough, the biggest celebration in the recent history of Hoenn had begun. The first day had been hectic as people rushed in to take part in the festivities, see the sights, and explore the city. Most had fun, but it was little more than an appetizer to the real thing.

By the second day, the fun truly began.

The first event to kick it all off was the Contest. Coordinators from around the globe came to compete for the chance to earn the new Falling Star ribbon – one of only two in existence that would grant its owner admission into every Grand Festival for life. Coupled with all the revenue generated by the festival going towards good causes, many were eager to take part.

It was just a shame that some of her friends had to miss it. Dawn was too busy tackling the Contests in Kalos to come, and Serena was still traveling the Alolan countryside. As for the others, most of them were too busy with their own lives to attend.

She was a little sad they weren't coming, but she understood. Some things were just too important to abandon, even for a good cause. Whatever they were doing, she wished them the best of luck.

At least her rivals and a variety of other famous Coordinators had come. Viewership would be through the roof thanks to them. Doubly so if they put on fantastic performances. If everything went to plan, the Contest viewership alone would make them hundreds of millions in profit.

That would be life-changing for the people they were looking to help.

For the past few hours, May watched as skilled Coordinators showed off the appeal of their Pokemon in Sootopolis' Contest Hall. All of them came filled with passion and the desire to win it all, proudly showcasing everything their Pokemon were capable of. Already, she had seen some performances that left her speechless.

Despite her best efforts, however, she couldn't stop herself from growing a bit tired. Even with the ad break every half an hour, they were still closing in on a hundred people. That was a hundred different performances she had to memorize, analyze, critique, and score all at the same time.

Why had nobody told her being a judge would be so difficult!? Actually performing for an audience was easier than this! At least when she was on stage, she didn't have to worry about her legs falling asleep or her eyes glazing over!

She had a newfound respect for judges everywhere. No wonder all the judges she knew had laughed her out of the room when they found out she'd be doing it. At the time, she'd wondered what was so funny.

Now all she could do was admit her mistake and plot her revenge against them for not warning her. It would be petty… and all the sweeter for it.

As one performance came to an end, the Coordinator and their Pokemon bowed before a clapping audience. May kept a smile on her face until they started to walk away. Then she leaned back in her seat and let out a tiny sigh, temporarily muting her microphone.

"Please tell me we're almost done." She said. "I just want to stretch my legs."

"We would if someone hadn't decided allowing nearly two hundred people to enter was a good idea." Cynthia said from her left.

Compared to May, the Sinnoh Champion was much better put together. Her smile looked easy, her hair was perfect, and her posture straight as an arrow. The only sign fatigue was setting in was the occasional yawn she let out behind her hands.

"I thought it was a good idea at the time!" She hissed. "Not that I heard you suggesting otherwise."

"I'm a Champion, not a Coordinator. For all I knew, this was normal." Cynthia's smile twitched. "If I'd known it would be like this, I'd have said no and let the local Nurse Joy handle it instead."

Barring the fact Nurse Joy wouldn't sell as many tickets or draw as many eyes, May distinctly recalled the look on the woman's face when she found out about the Falling Star Festival. Surprise quickly followed by despair at the thought of so many people before finally settling on relief that she wasn't going to be a judge.

"It's too late to do anything about it now." A new voice said from her right. "Best we can do is grit our teeth and bare it until it's over."

May glanced over to find Anabel Lawson, the former Salon Maiden that ran the Battle Tower for the Battle Frontier. She'd changed a lot in the years since they'd last met, with longer violet hair and a far sterner attitude than May remembered. Coupled with the impeccable black suit she wore, she cut an imposing figure.

May wouldn't admit it, but she was a little intimidated by her.

"She's right." Cynthia agreed. "Look at the bright side. Once this is over, we won't need to worry about nearly as many competitors in future rounds."

That was the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak. The two hundred Coordinator's would be cut down to a much more manageable couple dozen when their scores were given out. She just had to last a little longer.

The announcer on stage – a beautiful redheaded woman named Vivian – cleared her throat. "Alright everyone! Looks like we've got time for one more contestant before our next commercial break."

May cheered internally.

"The lucky contestant today is a new Coordinator, so be sure to give him a warm welcome!" Vivian cheered, spreading her arms wide. "With a face shrouded in mystery and an air of intimidation, he's ready to set the crowd a quaking with his immaculate performance! Give a round of applause to the one and only, Spartan!"

May and the others shared a look, even as they all joined in on the polite applause with the audience. What kind of name was Spartan? While some Coordinators, Trainers, and other performers used aliases, most didn't. The purpose of a Contest was to show off your Pokemon, not create a persona for yourself.

She'd wait before rushing to judgment, but so far she wasn't impressed.

Everyone's attention was drawn to the side entrance at the stage. The figure that emerged was tall, but their physical build was hidden beneath a thick layer of clothing. A dark gray trench coat hung loosely around their body while a set of heavy boots stomped across the floor. Most eye-catching of all, however, was their face.

It was hidden behind a reflective silver mask, obscured even further by the simple gray hood of their trench coat.

By the time they stood in the center of the stage, everyone in the audience waited to see what they would do. May would give them credit; their outfit was certainly attention-grabbing. Time would tell if their performance was just as intriguing.

For a moment, Spartan stood silently before them all. With thousands in the stadium and millions more at home watching, perhaps the pressure was getting to them. She couldn't imagine what she would be like if this was what her first Contest was like.

Just when Vivian was about to prod Spartan, his hands slipped into his trench coat and pulled out a single green Pokeball. Rearing his hand back, he tossed it into the air.

"Take the stage, Bewear."

The first thing she noticed was their voice. It was synthetic. Rough, gravely, and booming all at the same time. It was jarring, but not at all unpleasant to hear. That mask must have been altering their voice.

Then she realized he'd used her opening line. The same thing she always used to introduce a Pokemon to an audience. A fan of hers or just trying to curry favor?

Whatever the case, it wouldn't work. May was going to treat this mysterious Spartan the same as anyone else.

Once the Alolan bear materialized from her ball, the first thing on everyone's mind was what the performance was going to be. Spartan hadn't brought any tools with him, and Bewear wasn't much known for their control over the elements or mystical forces. Just what could he have planned?

They didn't have to wait long to find out.

Trainer and Pokemon alike shifted into combat ready stances. Faster than anyone could process what was happening, Spartan and his Bewear charged towards each other with their fists raised high.

May nearly leaped out of her seat in shock when Bewear's paw rushed towards the mystery Coordinator's head. Just when it was about to connect and take their head clean off, Spartan dodged to the side. His fist lashed out, striking the apex predator on the side.

Without missing a beat, the creature spun on a dime. This time Spartan ducked beneath Bewear's outstretched limb and rolled behind her. He kicked her in the back of the knee and dodged back just in time to avoid her strike.

On and on the two of them went. Spartan struck countless blows against Bewear and weaved out of the way at the last second. She, in turn, remained unfazed by the endless barrage of attacks.

As the fight went on, it looked less like the two were battling and more like they were dancing. Spartan and his Bewear flowed around each other like water, each movement fluid and natural. Every blow was met with a perfectly choreographed flip, pirouette, or slide.

By the time Bewear's gargantuan paws froze themselves solid and sparked with electricity, everyone in the audience was already enraptured. A whirlwind of frost and lightning surrounded them, a golden glow illuminating the entire stadium.

Just when it appeared they couldn't pull out anymore surprises, Bewear's electrified fist connected with Spartan's chest. The masked Trainer was sent hurtling through the air.

A gasp tore through the entire stadium. May surged from her seat and her hand flew to her Pokeballs, but someone forced her down. One look at Anabel's unconcerned face and a mouthed 'watch' made May pause.

Spartan flipped through the air, sparks dancing off him in the golden light of the whirling frost. When he collided with the ground, he rolled into a handstand and leaped back to his feet.

He made a show of dusting himself off. His hand came up in a mute gesture, goading his Bewear into attacking again. The pink and black bear glowed with a vibrant red energy. Slowly, the electrified cloud of frost they had built up coiled around and shrouded the apex predator in an aura of beautiful death.

A powerful roar escaped her maw. Bewear rocketed forward, shattering the ground beneath her as she headed straight for Spartan. Rather than turn to flee, flinching, or even trying to dodge, he did the one thing no one expected.

He ran straight towards the danger.

May gripped the edge of the table so tightly that her knuckles turned white. Her heart hammered in her chest at a thousand miles a minute. She didn't dare blink for fear of missing what came next.

Spartan skidded to a stop and spread his arms wide. Bewear came to a sudden stop herself. The aura that surrounded her exploded outwards, showering the stadium in sparkling golden snowflakes. Bewear raised her deadly paws above her head, killing intent rolling off of her waves…

And pulled Spartan into a tight, controlled hug. He returned the favor, reaching up to scratch her behind the ears. The pleased coo that escaped the lumbering monster was the final straw.

The entire stadium broke out into excited cheers and applause. So many joined in that it was impossible to actually hear anything being said. Not that May could blame them. Not when she and the rest of the judges were all the same.

She'd had her doubts when she first saw him, but they'd all been swept away. This Spartan – whoever he was – understood the point of Contests. Too many thought that all it took to win was a few flashy moves, a cute Pokemon, and charisma.

What truly mattered, however, was the Pokemon themselves. The performance was a chance for the Pokemon to show off their personality and the bond they shared with their Trainer. The stronger the bond, the greater the trust. And the greater the trust?

The more magnificent the performance.

Spartan and his Bewear shared a powerful bond. It was unlike almost anything else she'd seen. That silent communication. The way they instantly knew what the other was thinking and adapting accordingly. The complete trust that neither would hurt the other.

There were only two Trainers she'd ever met who shared such strong bonds with their Pokemon. Drew… and Ash.

She frowned but quickly hid it before anyone could notice.

Once the crowd had quieted down, Vivian moved forward. "Amazing! For those of you who weren't watching, Spartan and his Bewear just performed the most wonderful dance routine – almost as if they were fighting. Lightning, icy whirlwinds, and enough sheer strength to make any strongman weep tears of joy."

Spartan and his Bewear let go of one another. Though, Bewear wouldn't quite let him stop scratching her behind the ear. If her rapidly wagging tail was any indication, his fingers were like magic.

"And in the end, the two exploded in a shower of golden snowflakes and embraced one another! A touching sign of the love this Trainer and his Pokemon share for each other! A bond we can all only hope to emulate!"

May smiled. She could say that again.

Vivian sighed dramatically. "Alas, will it be enough for dear Spartan to move on to the next round? Our judges hold his fate in their hands, dear viewers! Him and every other Contestant with us today! Tune in after the break to see just who will be following up on such a stellar performance!"

While Vivian played to the crowd and the audience watching at home, Spartan and his Bewear moved to leave. Just before he reached the steps, his mask caught her eye. He stood on the spot, watching her for a moment… before turning and leaving without another word.

What an odd man.

May watched him go. An odd feeling arose within her stomach, but she ignored it. She'd have to watch that one closely going forward. After a performance like that, she and everyone else would have high expectations.

She hoped he didn't disappoint.

---

"Congrats, twerp. Ya made it in."

Ash ignored the sarcasm of his superior and mindlessly munched on a set of fries in his hands. At his side, Latias silently sipped on a cup of coffee. It had been a couple hours since his performance with Bewear. Rather than wait around for the results, he left and secluded himself in a nice little café nearby. At some point, Petrovic showed up and decided to wait with them.

Despite Ash's own wishes and Latias' unsubtle glares.

He wished Pikachu were here, but the risk was too great. With May, Cynthia, and so many others who knew him in attendance, they couldn't afford to give people any reason to connect his two identities. Which meant that in public, Pikachu had to remain in his Pokeball.

He felt for his partner. A month's supply of ketchup was in order for this sacrifice.

Latias shifted in her seat, leaning forward to rest her chin on her palm. "It's a shame I didn't get to see your performance."

Ash shrugged. There'd be recordings of it for her soon enough. "You had more important things to do. Don't worry about it."

Ash was thankful the mask could recede just enough to allow him to eat without revealing his face. After his performance, a lot of attention was now on him. Some tried to be subtle about it, but most were openly gawking at him.

He preferred the obvious ones. The subtle ones kept making his instincts flare up. Interpol trained him to be on the lookout for enemy surveillance, but this was something else. How was he meant to distinguish the potential threats from everyone else?

Petrovic loudly swallowed a bit from his pastry and glanced at the Legend. "Speaking of, how'd the meeting go? Better than the Tapu's?"

Ash was curious himself. She'd left a week before the rest of them to offer her tribute to the ruling Legends of Hoenn. She hadn't even returned until after his performance was over.

She frowned, scarlet hair brushing against her chin. "It was… interesting. Neither Kyogre nor Groudon were willing to be in the same place, so I had to meet them both separately."

That made a strange amount of sense. Myths always said the two were in constant conflict. Many foretold the end of the world if the two unleashed their full power in battle again. His brief encounter with them during his journey through Hoenn assured him of that.

"Groudon seemed less interested in the gift I brought her than my history." She said. "She wanted to hear all about how Humanity has advanced since she entered hibernation a millennia ago, and how I ended up working with you. We had a nice chat over some food."

Ash tilted his head aside. "Huh. I never would have guessed Groudon would be interested in that stuff."

Latias nodded. "From what little I've heard, she's one of the more Pro-Human Legends around. Always tries to convince Legends to recede from the world and leave it in mortal hands. Or so my brother told me, anyway."

Huh… suddenly, his encounter with the Legend all those years ago made more sense. He and so many others had been caught in a battle between Groudon and Kyogre. Instead of attacking its rival, though, it focused on defending them instead.

"Hold up." Petrovic interrupted. "Ya mean to tell me that Groudon – the massive red monster made of magma and stone – is a she? And friendly?"

Latias quirked an eyebrow. "What else would she be?"

Petrovic didn't have any response to that. Instead, he took another chomp out of his pastry. The wheels in his head turning.

"What about Kyogre?" Ash asked.

She winced. "Lord Kyogre is… cold. Very cold. He seemed more annoyed by my presence than anything else."

"Like the Tapu's?" Petrovic asked.

"No. They were petty and childish. Arrogant. Kyogre is different. More… commanding. Just being in his presence made me feel like I was drowning." She shivered. "He asked me to pay my tribute in blood."

Ash and Petrovic alike reared back in shock, exchanging worried looks. "What do you mean by that?"

"Exactly what you think." Latias looked away. "A group of Humans were disrupting Pokemon habitats off the coast of Hoenn. Dropping dynamite in coral reefs, destroying habitats, and capturing massive swathes of wild Pokemon for research."

"That's why you were gone so long," Ash stated. "What ended up happening?"

"I tried to stop them peacefully. Destroying their equipment and crafting illusions to scare them wasn't working, though. All it did was make them call more."

Petrovic leaned back in his seat, regarding her carefully for a moment. "Ya killed 'em, didn'tcha?"

Latias sighed tiredly. "I sunk their ship and released the Pokemon they'd captured. Gave them the choice to take revenge or return home."

It didn't take a mind reader to figure out what they chose.

"After that, Kyogre was satisfied and granted me his blessing." She shook her head. "I hope we never have to return to Hoenn in the future. I don't ever want to deal with him again if I can help it."

He could see why. Ash may not have been scared of the ocean, but Kyogre? Something about him made Ash feel… off. If the ocean was unpredictable and violent, then what did that say about its master?

He still hadn't forgotten how the lord of the oceans tried to drown them all years ago.

"I'll let Looker know. Higher ups will be eager to hear about this," Petrovic said. "Expect him to corner you later. A look into the temperament and views of Legends is something Interpol would love to add to its database."

Ash couldn't blame them. From the sounds of it, there was an ideological divide among the Legends. Those who supported Humanity, and those who disdained them. If that divide ever sparked a war among the gods?

Interpol – and Humanity – would need to know who was on their side.

"I don't know much. I was raised among Humans, and what little I know is what my brother told me." She reminded them. "But I'll tell him what I can, if it helps."

Petrovic grunted. "Right. Well, now that we've got that settled, onto more important things." He turned to Ash. "Ya ready for your tournament match?"

Ash nodded, dipping a fry into some mayo and relish. "As much as I can be." He said. "It's a little unfair to throw me in there. I was a Champion; no one here will be able to beat me."

A cruel grin split the murder hobos face. "What did we teach ya? If ya ain't cheating-"

"You're not trying." He finished. "I know. Doesn't change anything, though."

"No, it doesn't. So quit yer bitching and settle up." Petrovic retorted. "The more ya dominate the competition, the more salivating a target ya become for our enemies."

Ash didn't say a word. Instead, he chose to munch on his snack in peace and let the older agent speak. His feelings were unimportant. If it meant stopping Team Rocket and protecting the people of Hoenn, he could put his feelings aside.

Latias tapped him on the shoulder. "Are you planning to use me?"

He frowned. "Not yet. I know we need to draw attention to you, but this early in the tournament isn't the best time. Maybe in another round or two. Once we've gotten everyone's attention."

She nodded. "You're the Trainer, so you'd know what's best. It'll be fun seeing an official match in person for once."

He allowed himself a tiny smile. It would be even more fun to take part. After close to a year away from the competitive scene, this would be a refreshing return to normality. No high-stakes, no life or death struggles, and no horrific consequences for failure.

Just a simple battle. A clash of wills between him and his opponent. A return to the good old days.

… Arceus, he sounded old, and he was almost nineteen!

"Wanna hear about yer opponent?" Petrovic held up his watch. "Got Interpol's file on him right here."

He shrugged. "It can't hurt."

Petrovic nodded, typing into the small haptic keyboard on his wrist. "Name's Dylan Mallory. Been a Trainer for the past eight years, even won the regional tournaments in Sinnoh and Unova. Specializes in Fighting types. According to an interview he did with a couple gossip rags, he's looking to become a member of the Elite Four."

He was strong then. Winning even one regional League was difficult, but to win two of them? That required true skill. If he planned on becoming an Elite Four one day, then he was already well on his way.

Ash couldn't help but be excited. This would be a glorious battle. He could feel it!

"Any psychological weaknesses to exploit?" He asked. "Habits? Preferred strategies?"

Excited as he may have been, he still had a job to do. Interpol was relying on him to win.

"He gets frustrated easily. If something doesn't go according to plan, he can't think straight. Loses his cool and gets real flustered." Petrovic said. "File says he's all about pure offense. Overwhelms his enemies before they can come up with a plan."

Latias blinked. "Sounds tough."

"Anything else?" Ash asked.

"Plenty. Doubt you want us to mess with him prior to the match, though. Everything else in here is irrelevant to your battle."

"You'd be right." Ash finished off his fries, taking the chance to down his leftover mayonnaise and relish like a shot. Once he was finished, he set the containers aside. "Guy's just a harmless athlete. No reason to hurt him."

Petrovic scrunched up his nose in disgust. "Unlike those eating habits of yers. Don't know how ya can stand that stuff."

Ash grinned. "Don't knock it 'til you try it."

"Rather castrate myself." The purplette snapped. "Mayo is the food of Giratina. Pure hatred in physical form. Only a monster could eat that stuff."

Latias shuddered and nodded along. "Much as I hate to admit it, he's right. Mayo is gross."

Ash glared mockingly at Latias. "You put whipped cream on pizza. I don't wanna to hear about disgusting from you."

Her cheeks lit up the same shade as her hair. "It's good! The tomato sauce and cheese go really well with it!"

Petrovic looked physically ill. "Yer both monsters… food criminals! I should kill ya both for this!"

Before he could follow through on that threat or either of them could respond, the ground shook. They all exchanged an uncertain look. Was someone having a battle that was getting out of hand?

"Team Rocket!"

All three of them surged to their feet. Team Rocket was here already? What were they doing making their move so early? The festival had barely even started! That wasn't enough time for them to sort the strong from the weak, let alone get everything in place!

None of this made any sense.

The mask morphed back over his mouth as the three of them rushed towards the source of the commotion. What they found… was the last thing any of them expected.

"Prepare for trouble!"

Floating above the plaza was a small hot-air balloon shaped like a Persian. A pair of Team Rocket grunts posed dramatically in the basket. They made sure everyone knew it too, wearing the most gaudy and eye-catching uniforms he'd ever seen.

Attached to the bottom of the balloon was a net holding dozens of small Pokemon in its confines. Struggle as they might, none of their claws or attacks could break them free.

"Make it double!" One shouted.

"To protect the world from devastation!" The other cried.

"To unite all people's within our nation!" The original tossed a single red rose to the crowd of confused and angry onlookers below.

"To denounce the evils of truth and love!" The other cracked a whip in her hands.

"To extend our reach to the stars above!"

"Alex!"

"Adam!"

The two Grunts joined hands in a mocking pose to the world.

"Team Rocket blasts off at the speed of light!"

"Surrender now or prepare to fight!"

With each passing word, the duo of Interpol agents and their Legend grew progressively more embarrassed. Both for themselves, and the Grunts who just gave that entire speech.

Latias coughed awkwardly, looking everywhere but the hot-air balloon.

Ash held his head in his hands, wishing the earth would open up and swallow him whole.

Petrovic… he just had a blank look on his face. There was no mistaking the air of murder that surrounded him, however.

"What… what the hell did I just watch?" The older agent asked.

To Ash's shame, he had the answer.

"The eight years of my journey condensed into a few humiliating moments." He groaned.

"Ah. I see." Petrovic nodded slowly. "Only one way to solve this problem."

Without missing a beat, he reached into his trench coat and pulled out his pistol. Flicking the safety off and checking to make sure it was loaded, Petrovic nodded in approval and raised the gun.

Or he would have, if Latias hadn't forced his arm back down.

"You can't shoot them!" Latias shouted into their minds.

"Sure I can. All I need to do is point and squeeze the trigger. Real simple."

"Violence isn't always the answer!"

"People who believe that have obviously never used it correctly. Violence is always the answer!"

Rather than weigh in on the argument, Ash stepped forward and released Lilligant from her Pokeball. The elegant Grass type looked around for a moment upon her release. Once she spotted the balloon in the air, she shifted into a battle ready stance.

"Shall I dispose of this rubbish, Master?" Lilligant asked.

He nodded. "Leave them alive, but prioritize saving the Pokemon. Nothing else matters."

"At once, Master."

While the Rocket Grunts were busy mocking the people below, Lillgant's eyes glowed. Thrusting her arms forward, a barrage of glowing leaves shot forth, straight towards the balloon. At the last second, they split apart. One stream severed the rope holding the Pokemon hostage, while the other cut into the balloon itself.

The Grunts screamed as their basket plummeted to the ground, but no one cared about them. Before Lilligant could spring into action and save the falling Pokemon, someone else beat them to it.

"Blaziken, catch them!" A familiar voice called out.

A red blur leaped through the air, catching the net and safely setting it down once it landed. The Blaziken flashed its claws, cutting through the rope and freeing the captured Pokemon. They and their Trainers rushed towards each other, embracing happily.

Ash strode past them all, Lilligant following close behind. The hot-air balloon hadn't landed far away. By the time the Grunts crawled out of their basket in a daze, Lilligant had already summoned a set of Energy Balls in her arms.

She could and would use them at the slightest twitch.

The Grunts froze.

Ash crouched down in front of them, his emotionless mask reflecting their scared expressions. "Are you two going to be a problem?"

The Grunts huddled together and held each other close, shivering in fear. "N-no sir! Of course not!"

The synthetic voice of his mask was useful for something, at least. Scaring criminals always came in handy.

"Good." He stood up. "The police will arrive soon. Don't make them have to look for you."

With nothing more to say, he turned and left. These Grunts were the bottom of the totem pole. The Smokescreen Division at its finest. The higher ups in Rocket wouldn't bother telling them anything worthwhile, so there was no reason for Interpol to get involved.

The local police could handle it. Maybe the Rangers, if they felt they were needed.

"Nice job, Lilligant." He idly complimented. "Your control is as good as ever."

Lilligant beamed up at him. "Thank you, Master. I aim to please."

"Power and grace? You sure are an interesting one, Spartan."

Ash froze mid-step. Slowly, he turned to see May and her Blaziken standing behind him. The easy smile on her face matched the pleased look in her sapphire eyes. His heart hammered so rapidly in his chest he feared it would burst from his chest.

He'd never been so thankful for a mask before in his life.

"…." He tried to speak, but no words came out. His mouth just refused to work.

May chuckled. "Going for the dark and broody persona? Can't say I'm surprised with that outfit of yours." She said. Her smile only seemed to grow brighter. "There are no cameras, though. No need to keep up appearances."

He looked away. That smile was getting to him. "Right. Sorry."

She rolled her eyes. "Don't be. You just saved all those Pokemon. You should be proud."

Blaziken nodded in agreement. "You reacted fast. Most only ever stay frozen to the spot." She said, her voice rough and soothing at the same time.

So, that was what Blaziken sounded like? It was oddly fitting.

He shrugged. "I just did what anyone would have done." He told her. "If it weren't me, you or someone else would have stepped in."

"Maybe, but you were the first one to do something. The crowd will love you even more once they hear about this." May pointed out.

Ash looked away. "I didn't do it for that."

"I know. Still, it'll do wonders for your image." May teased. "Coupled with your performance earlier? I'd say you're the standout rookie of the Contest. All eyes are going to be on you."

Just like Interpol wanted. Lucky him.

"Please don't let this color your judgment of me." He told May. "I want to be treated fairly. Like every other contestant."

Anabel tipping the scales his way was more than enough.

"Oh, don't worry about that. Your standing going forward is all on you." She extended a hand, her brown curls framing her face cutely. "But as a thank you, why don't you and I grab some lunch? My treat."

Ash had to bite down on his tongue to stop himself from accepting. A frighteningly large part of him wanted to accept. A much smaller part wanted to reveal everything to her and tell her the truth. He pushed both of them down and locked them away.

He couldn't put May in danger, and he wouldn't risk his cover.

"I can't." He told her. "I have a match soon."

"A match?" She blinked in confusion. Then understanding dawned on you. "You're fighting in the tournament, too?"

He nodded. "I am. Perfect place to test my strength."

It was as good an excuse as any.

"That's awesome. Too many Coordinators neglect their battling skills in favor of their performances." May said. "My brother is competing, so promise to go easy on him if he's your opponent, 'kay?"

Max was here as well? Shit. Shit, shit, shit! This whole festival just kept getting riskier by the minute. Just who else from his past was here!?

"I'll do my best." He turned to leave. "Have a good day, Ms. Maple."

"No need to be so formal. You can call me May." She waved him goodbye. "Good luck with your match, Spartan! We'll take a rain check on that lunch!"

He gave her a halfhearted wave over his shoulder, not bothering to look back. He feared the alien feeling in his chest would grow worse if he did.

Lilligant followed close behind, looking up at him in confusion. "Is everything alright, Master? Do you know that girl?"

"Later, Lilligant. I'll tell you later." He promised. "I need to focus for now."

He had a match to win, after all.

Ash could deal with May and everything that came with her after.

---

Looker hadn't been waiting long when Ash stepped out of the locker room and into the tunnel. The battlefield of the stadium was behind him, and the crowd outside was eager for the match to begin.

"Looker." Ash stopped in front of him. "Come to wish me good luck?"

"Not quite." Looker pushed off the wall. "I just wanted to make sure you know what to do."

The former Champion nodded. "Of course. You need me to win."

"Not just win, Ash." Looker corrected. "We need you to dominate. All eyes need to be on you so that when Latias is revealed, Team Rocket will risk everything to capture her."

"I know the plan." Ash walked past him. "I won't disappoint."

The veteran watched Ash go with a frown. He knew Ash wouldn't disappoint, but that wasn't the concern. He just hoped he remembered what it was like to be a Trainer instead of an agent.

Those were two very different things.

---

Max shifted in his seat. At his side, Kirlia munched on a deep-fried cupcake on a stick, kicking her legs back and forth in her seat. None of the other spectators seemed put off by her presence or strange choice in food. For his part, Max munched on some popcorn.

He slapped a hand away that tried to steal some. "No! Get your own!"

May retracted her hand with a pout. "What? Don't want to share with your big sis?"

"You dragged me away from the festival to watch a random match in the tournament." Max retorted. "Keeping my popcorn to myself is the least I deserve."

She scoffed in mock indignation. "No appreciation for getting you a ticket to the festival or a spot in the tournament."

"I appreciated it. It's why I got you a gift to say thanks."

May perked up. "Really? What is it?"

He smirked. "My company, of course."

"You're lucky I love you." The Hoenn Princess deadpanned.

He and Kirlia both snickered. May brought it on herself. She was just too easy to tease sometimes. As if to add insult to injury, Kirlia reached up and snagged some popcorn for herself. She slowly popped into her mouth, audibly savoring every bite.

They'd pay for this later if May's glare was anything to go by, but it was worth it.

"So, why did you want to do this, anyway?" He asked. "You don't normally watch League matches."

Not unless he or someone else they knew was taking part.

"Someone interesting is competing. He really impressed me and the other judges during his performance in the Contest. I thought it'd be a good idea to keep an eye on him."

Max blinked. "A Coordinator and a Trainer? That's rare."

Rare was an understatement. While both may have worked with Pokemon in a competitive sense, they were diametrically opposed in every way that mattered. Trainers focused on strength and battle prowess; Coordinators preferred entertainment and beauty.

That wasn't to say a Trainer couldn't put on a performance or that a Coordinator couldn't be strong. May and Ash proved that. Most just never bothered.

May nodded. "Exactly. How can I not be curious?" She asked. "Trust me when I say that he's strong, too. His Bewear is something else."

It didn't take a genius to notice the hint of admiration in her voice.

"Is this just about his performance? You must have seen a lot of impressive people while you were judging them."

May sighed and looked away. "It's not just that. There's something about him I can't explain. A feeling, I guess."

He narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "A feeling? Is that all?"

She shrugged. "Am I not allowed to be curious?" She asked. "Maybe you'll understand once you see him in battle. He may be your opponent in the future, so watching his matches can't hurt."

Max reluctantly gave in. She was right. Even if her interest in the guy was suspect, preparing to face him wasn't a bad idea. With so many strong contenders in this tournament, he couldn't afford to overlook anyone.

"Alright, everyone! It's time for the next match of the Fall Star tournament to begin!" The announcer shouted over the speakers.

Everyone quieted down soon enough, flicking their attention to the battlefield below. Neither of the contestants had arrived yet, but that would soon change.

"In the red corner, we have the Master of Martial Arts! The man who conquered Unova and Sinnoh's strongest aspirants! The master of his craft seeking to supplant our very own Elite Four – Dylan Mallory!"

Cheers erupted in the stadium as the man in quest walked out. He was a Hoenn native in his early twenties, with a full head of flowing golden hair and hazel eyes. Coincidentally, he was wearing a simple blue gi tied shut with a black belt.

The man waved at the crowd as he took his position on the red end of the battlefield.

"Seems like the crowd loves him." May said. "He must be pretty famous."

Max nodded. "People say he's going to be the next Bruno or Marshal. After my battle with him, I can see why. He's really strong."

She glanced down at him and his partner. "You fought him before?"

He smiled. "Early in my journey when I was challenging Brawly. He and Dylan were training together, and I wanted to see how well Kirlia and the rest of my team would do against him."

"How'd you do?"

Kirlia fidgeted in her seat, not looking up from her fried food.

Max tugged at the collar of his shirt. "Well, uh, you see-"

"He destroyed you, didn't he?"

He slumped forward in despair. "I wasn't even good enough to be a warmup."

May patted him on the back. "Don't let it get you down. You were just starting out." She said, "You're a lot more experienced now. I guarantee that the next time you battle, you'll show just how strong you are."

He smiled. "Thanks, May."

For all their teasing, he and his sister still loved each other. If someone as strong as her believed in him, then he wouldn't let her down.

"And in the blue corner, we have a Trainer making their debut on the scene, so be sure to give them a warm welcome! With a history shrouded in mystery and a fashion sense straight out of a detective novel, give it up for Spartan!"

Unlike his more famous counterpart, the crowd's cheers were much more tame and polite. Even those who may have known him from his earlier performance seemed more interested in his opponent than anything else.

Max blinked. This was the guy who had impressed his sister? He'd admit that Spartan stood out for the mask and trench coat alone, but beyond that? He didn't seem special. If anything, he looked almost bored with the surrounding crowd.

Or perhaps focused was the better word. It was hard to tell with the mask hiding his face and the trench coat obscuring his body language.

"I almost feel sorry for him." Max muttered. "Up against Dylan in the first round? That's just bad luck."

May smiled. "I wouldn't underestimate him if I were you. Something tells me he'll surprise us all."

He'd believe it when he saw it.

Down in the arena, Dylan bowed respectfully to his opponent. The two stood on opposite ends of a rocky battlefield, but the mics easily picked up their voices and amplified them. "You honor me with this fight, Spartan."

The masked man nodded mutely.

The martial artist smiled. "A man of few words? I can respect that." Grabbing a Pokeball from his waist, he reared his hand back. "Machamp, prepare yourself!"

The four-armed humanoid slowly stood to its full height once it materialized. It made a show of flexing its muscles and posing for the crowd. It was positively loving the attention.

Spartan grasped a green Pokeball in his gloved hands, backhand tossing it onto the field. "Bewear, stand by for battle."

May and Max shared a look. They'd heard that phrase before, but they couldn't place where. It was so familiar….

Unlike her opponent, the Alolan bear was unconcerned with the crowd. She glanced back at her Trainer, exchanging a brief nod before turning back to its opponent.

"So, he's going for Bewear again?" May mumbled. "Looks like I was right. She must be one of his strongest if he's using her for both the Contest and tournament."

Max frowned. "Not very smart, though. Bewear's weak to Fighting types, and Dylan's Machamp is no joke. Spartan is in for a rude awakening if he thinks he can just ignore that."

"You and I both know a type advantage doesn't always decide who wins, Max." May said. "I thought you, of all people, would remember that."

Max flinched. She was right. Ash had shown him that time and again during their journey together. Always pulling out a win when logic said he was at a disadvantage. He admired that about his idol. Wherever Ash was, Max hoped he was watching.

He would make him proud in his matches.

The announcer cleared his throat. "You all know the drill! This is a three-on-three match with substitutions allowed! Match to be decided on either forfeit or when one side loses all their Pokemon! Begin!"

Dylan thrust his fist forward. "The first move is ours! Machamp, Close Combat!"

The Machamp cheered in agreement, sprinting forward. His arms were little more than gray blurs as all four fists lashed out at Bewear. An unending, unblockable assault that came at the predator from every angle — each blow capable of shattering stone.

Rather than try to block the blows, however, Bewear did the next best thing. Without a word from her Trainer, the fluffy bear elegantly dodged, weaved, and deflected every blow that came her way. To the astonishment of the crowd, that lumbering monster was more agile than Machamp!

"Bewear knows how to dodge." Max mumbled. "But it can't win by just doing that."

Evidently, Spartan felt the same.

"Stop it." He said.

Before anyone could process what he meant, Bewear lashed out. Finding the perfect opening in Machamp's endless assault, one of her paws slammed into his chest. A pained gasp escaped the gray monster, echoed by the shocked crowd. It was launched back, tumbling along the ground and coming to rest at the foot of a boulder.

Dylan tightened his fists. "Machamp! Are you alright?" He shouted.

Slowly, Machamp struggled to its feet. The blow left a noticeable bruise on the creature's chest, but not enough to keep it down. Machamp still had some fight in it, flashing a thumbs up at Dylan."

Dylan nodded. "Impressive, Spartan. Most can't stand up to Machamp's attacks. But let's see how you handle this." He slammed his foot down. "Elemental Combat! Target Bewear's legs!"

At its master's command, four fists became surrounded by the elemental forces of the world. Noticeably slower than before, Machamp charged forward. When its four fists struck in unison, however, Bewear dodged to the side.

"Flip." Spartan commanded.

Wrapping its paws around all four arms of her opponent, Bewear squeezed tight and used her bone-crushing strength to hurl the Machamp up in the air. It wasn't there long before she brought it back down, slamming it face first into the ground.

Machamp tried to crawl away, but Bewear slammed her foot down on its head. Grinding it into the gravel, she grabbed one of its arms in her paws and looked towards her Trainer for approval.

What was she doing?

Spartan nodded. "Break it."

The crowd went silent. Max paled in his seat, and May gasped in shock. No one said a word or moved an inch, too shocked to do either. Surely they hadn't just heard that. There was no way-

The speakers amplified the sickening crack of bone. Machamp's anguished cries echoed through their ears. It struggled in Bewear's grasp, but it was no use. The more it struggled, the tighter she squeezed.

"Machamp!" Dylan cried. "Get out of there! Use-"

"Hammer Arm." Spartan interrupted.

Bewear's arms glowed. Faster than Dylan or his monster could react, she lifted Machamp up and tossed it into the air. Once it came back down, her paw rocketed into the side of its skull.

The beast landed at Dylan's feet. Broken, bloodied, and unconscious.

No one said a word.

Eventually, the announcer found their voice and cleared their throat. "M-Machamp is unable to battle! What a surprise upset! Who would have guessed someone out there would have a Fighting type stronger than the Martial Arts Master himself!?"

The crowd started to whisper among themselves. Injuries were a common and unavoidable consequence of League battles. Everyone knew that when they took part or tuned in to watch. Most Trainers accepted the risk, and Pokemon even seemed thrilled by the added danger to the fight.

Even so… hearing someone specifically seek to do that level of harm to an opponent was unsettling. It wasn't illegal; just frowned upon.

Machamp would recover thanks to modern medical technology and Pokemon's own rapid healing factors. Still….

"Poor Machamp." He mumbled.

Kirlia hummed in agreement, clutching her head in pain.

Dylan returned his Machamp with a snarl. "So cruel and undisciplined… fine! If that's how you want to do it, then two can play at that game. Mienshao, go!"

A large, gangly purple weasel with thick yellow whiskers was released from its ball. Once its eyes landed on Bewear, it shifted into a defensive stance. To the shock of most in the audience, the Mienshao bit into its own arms and started to tear the fur off of them.

"What's it doing?" May asked.

"Making itself lighter." Max said. "They only do that when up against dangerous opponents."

For its own sake, Mienshao would have to hope that added speed helped it avoid the overwhelming strength that decimated its teammate.

Dylan thrust his arm forward. "Fake Out!"

Mienshao let out a strange, grating wail unlike anything Max had ever heard before. Snapping its remaining fur like a whip, they rushed forward and slammed their arms together. A powerful shockwave rippled out, headed straight for Bewear.

The Alolan apex predator didn't move an inch. Moments before the shockwave reached her, a powerful barrier materialized around her. The wind flowed around the dome, continuing forward to shatter the walls of the arena behind them.

"Bounce!" The martial artist cried.

The purple weasel let out another strange cry before leaping into the air. Down below, Bewear tracked its movements with the careful eye of a predator. At the zenith of their arc, Mienshao ice formed over their furred feet. Spinning, they came crashing down towards the bear.

Bewear waited until the last moment… then grabbed her enemy just before they struck. Clamping down on their feet, she shattered the ice in her paws and spun on a dime, hurling the creature through a boulder and shattering it on impact.

"Mienshao!" Dylan shouted.

The rubble was unmoving. Just as everyone started to worry, it shifted. Mienshao emerged from the boulder, bloody and bruised but still able to fight. Just as they stumbled to their feet, however, Spartan shoved his hands into his pockets.

"Hammer Arm."

Bewear's arm glowed with blinding energy once more. She rushed forward, the ground quaking with every footfall.

"Protect!" Dylan ordered.

Mercifully, Mienshao threw up her own impenetrable shield mere moments before the blow connected. No attack could penetrate a Protect – not with sheer power alone.

Or so everyone thought.

When Bewear's fist struck, everyone knew it would bounce harmlessly off the mystical barrier. No one expected it to shatter the Protect in an instant, cleaving through it like it wasn't even there.

Least of all Mienshao and their Trainer.

Bewear's paw twisted into Mienshao's gut and carried them forward, launching them into the stadium wall behind Dylan Mallory. The entire arena shook from the impact as a cloud of dust and debris was kicked up. Only as it dispersed could everyone see the unconscious form of the Unovan Fighting type buried in the wall.

"Mienshao is unable to battle!" The announcer shouted. Unlike before, there was no hesitation or shock in his voice. "To take out not one, but two of the Martial Arts Masters Pokemon in a row? With not even a scratch? What kind of monster is this Bewear!?"

"This is a slaughter." Max said. "Who is this guy? You'd think someone with his strength would have made the news before."

May didn't say a word. She was too busy watching Spartan and his Bewear to notice anything else.

Down below, Dylan tugged at his hair and grit his teeth as he returned Mienshao. "Damn it! You've really pushed me this far to the edge, huh? Guess it's time to go all out!"

The final Pokemon he released was a Gallade. The honorable Pokemon stood tall and proud in the arena. Similar to Mienshao, he shifted and held his bladed arms before himself defensively once he laid eyes on Bewear.

Kirlia perked up at his release. This was Dylan's starter, and the same Pokemon Max's team had fought against in the past. He knew from personal experience just how powerful this Pokemon was, and the strength of the bond Dylan shared with it.

It was why a Mega Stone was wrapped around its neck, proudly displayed for all the world to see.

But would it be enough to seize victory from the jaws of defeat?

Only time would tell.

"Gallade!" Dyland shouted. "That Bewear didn't show any mercy to Machamp or Mienshao, so all our hopes lie with you! Think you can handle it?"

Never taking his eyes off the Alolan predator, Gallade nodded.

Dylan thrust his arm in the air, causing his sleeve to fall down and reveal a Key Stone strapped to his wrist. "No more holding back! Gallade, Mega Evolve!"

The Key and Mega Stone's simultaneously glowed with a blinding light. It quickly spread to envelop and cocoon around the Gallade. Even all the way up in the stands, the pressure emitted by the evolution made Max's hair stand on end.

Spartan remained unfazed. "Close Combat."

It didn't come as a shock to anyone by this point when Bewear crossed the distance between her and Gallade with a single leap. Before the Mega Evolution could finish, Bewear crashed into the energy cocoon… and shattered it in a single blow.

The stunned Gallade could barely raise his arms in time to block her first strike. A seemingly endless barrage of blows rained down upon the warrior, bashing his arms aside and smashing into his body at full force. Each one echoed with a meaty thwack that the crowd felt in their bones.

"How!?" Dylan shouted, tugging at his hair once more.

Spartan didn't bother acknowledging his opponent. With an almost imperceptible shake of his head, he sighed. "Toxic."

Bewear grabbed Gallade by his throat and lifted him into the air. She opened her mouth, revealing a maw full of razor-sharp fangs that dripped with saliva.

Dylan's eyes widened. "T-teleport!"

It was too late. A stream of noxious purple ooze shot from Bewear's mouth directly into Gallade's wounds. By the time he teleported away, the damage had already been done.

"Mega Evolve him."

For the first time since the battle began, Spartan addressed his opponent. Dylan stumbled for a moment and reared back in shock. Then his eyes narrowed and his teeth ground together.

"Why? Just so you can beat on him again when he can't defend himself?" He growled.

"He can't defend himself even if he doesn't. If you want any chance of winning, do it now."

It wasn't just the matter-of-fact tone of the words, but how… mocking they seemed. Everyone knew that Dylan couldn't win this fight. Not after Gallade took so much damage, and not with such a powerful toxin pumping through his veins.

Allowing Gallade to Mega Evolve was a pity prize. A bone being thrown to an opponent so outclassed, it wouldn't matter what he did.

Max tightened his fist in frustration.

"Don't believe me?" Spartan raised Bewear's Pokeball and returned her. "There. Now you can do it in peace."

Dylan looked ready to tear Spartan's head off. Without a word, he raised his Key Stone in the air once again and activated the bond he shared with Gallade. There was no rampaging bear to stop them this time. By the time it was finished, Gallade stood before them all in its Mega form — tall and regal.

Or it would have, if it weren't for the blood and bruises dotting its form.

Rather than send Bewear back out to battle, Spartan grabbed another Pokeball from inside his trench coat. Instead of another tall and imposing monster, the creature released into battle was far tinier but no less powerful.

A Pikachu.

A gasp escaped Kirlia. When Max turned to look at her, all he could see was a mixture of confusion and worry on her face.

What was going on?

"Gallade!" Dylan shouted. "Use Psychic to grab the debris and boulders around the field! Bury that rat under a mountain of rubble!"

Gallade's eyes flashed purple. Even in his weakened state, the forces of the mind still flowed through him with ease. One by one, he gathered every loose bit of debris and earth, floating it into the air. With his injuries, it was far from quick.

Pikachu didn't move an inch, however. Instead, he watched and waited to see what Gallade would do.

"Now!" Dylan shouted.

Spartan sighed again. "Dig."

Gallade launched his projectiles forward with every ounce of strength his mind possessed. They crashed into where Pikachu stood from every angle, kicking up a massive cloud of dust and debris in the process. Any delusions that they scored a hit of Spartan's Electric type were dashed once the dust cleared.

Pikachu was nowhere to be seen. Not even when Gallade lifted the rubble up again. All that remained was a tiny hole where he once stood.

"Stay focused, Gallade!" Dylan ordered. "We don't know where it will come up next."

Gallade nodded, waiting for Pikachu to show himself so he could counterattack.

And waited.

And Waited.

And waited some more. With each passing second, Gallade's breathing grew more ragged and wet. Eventually, the Blade Pokemon collapsed to his knees and clutched his chest.

"Damn it! Where is that thing? Why isn't it coming back up!?" Dylan growled.

"He's not."

Dylan froze. "What?"

"Pikachu isn't surfacing." Spartan said. "Why would he? Gallade is already poisoned. All he has to do is stay underground and wait for nature to take its course."

"You son of a bitch!" Dylan shouted.

"Language. There are kids watching." Spartan reprimanded. "Return Gallade and forfeit the match. There's no need to make him suffer pointlessly."

"Why even let him Mega Evolve then!? What was the point of all this!?" Dylan demanded. "Do you just like watching Pokemon suffer?"

"No. My reasons are my own." Spartan looked at the sky. "Return your Gallade. Nurse Joy can heal whatever damage has been done."

Dylan clenched his fists so hard that blood was drawn. Screaming at the sky in pure frustration, he tore his eyes away from the battlefield. Without a word, he returned Gallade to his Pokeball and turned to walk away.

He had forfeited the match.

"Unbelievable folks! The unshakable Dylon Mallory – the Martial Arts Master himself – has just forfeited the match! In a complete landslide victory, Spartan advances to the next round!" The announcer shouted.

The crowd was silent for a moment. Once they got over their shock, however, each of them erupted into excited cheers and applause. They came for an exciting match and strong Pokemon. However one-sided the battle may have been, Spartan delivered on everything they wanted.

Not that the Trainer in question seemed to care. Once Pikachu emerged from underground at his feet, the masked man crouched down and scratched his partner behind the ears. Clicking the Pokeball against his head, Pikachu returned to the confines of his ball.

Spartan then turned and walked off the battlefield without a word. Not even a care for the crowd of new fans he'd gained after this match. He only stopped to stare at someone in the crowds for a moment.

Max could have sworn he was looking at May.

Before Max could see for sure, however, Spartan turned his back and kept walking.

"Spartan…." May muttered. "Who are you?"

Max didn't know.

All he knew was that if the two of them faced each other in the tournament? There was no way he'd win.

And it disgusted him.

---

"Congrats on the win, kid. Ya earned it."

Ash stopped short when he saw Looker and Petrovic waiting for him in the tunnel to the locker room. The eccentric agent must have joined Looker back here at some point during his match. The cheers of the crowd still echoed behind him, but Ash paid it no mind.

There were other things he had to worry about.

"Dylan's Pokemon were strong." He said. "He'll go far if he keeps at it and learns to keep his head when things get tough."

Petrovic snorted. "If is the right word there. Wouldn't surprise me if he calls it quits after the beating ya put him through."

Ash frowned, not that either could see it beneath the mask. "It wasn't that bad… was it?"

"Kiddo, that kid walked in with his head held high and an ego stroked from years of people heaping praise on him." Petrovic snickered. "By the time ya were finished with him, you'd skinned that pride of his. Might as well be wearing it like a coat."

Ash looked away. "Looker told me to win. It had to be convincing."

"Oho, it was. Trust me. Everyone is gonna be watching ya after this," Petrovic said. "I've never enjoyed a League match so much in all my years. I could see his pride shattering as the battle went on-"

The purplette winced as Looker elbowed him in the side. A warning glare was enough to shut the man up after that.

"Ignore him. Petrovic is just twisting the knife." Looker told him. "You should be proud, Ash. It was exactly what we needed from you."

Proud, huh? That was the one thing Ash didn't feel.

His match against Dylan wasn't meant to go like that. He'd known going in that he'd be a cut above the rest of the competition as a former Champion. Perhaps a few would be a challenge, but most would fall soon enough. Even if he didn't have a full team, Interpol's reserves would more than make up for it.

Even so, Ash had been excited. It was supposed to be a return to form. A return to his roots as a Pokemon Trainer competing in Leagues and having the time of his life. Back when life had been so simple and thrilling.

When had it become so… disappointing?

His opponent just shouted out his moves and expected Ash to do the same. Worse, everything had been so straightforward and predictable. There were no clever strategies, no attempt to use the environment, not even any bold new moves.

Just plain old aggression and head-on attacks. Dylan's Pokemon barely did anything without his orders either. It made Ash pause in confusion. Had something changed when he'd been away? Or was it always like this, and he was the one that changed?

It was hard to get into the heat of battle when it was so sanitized. Nothing at all like what he'd grown used to working with Interpol.

He couldn't fault Dylan for losing his cool, at least. Bewear had done a number on her enemies. The announcer and the audience called her strength monstrous, but the truth was that had been her holding back.

She could have done far worse to them if wanted.

Not that she shouldered any of the blame. It had been his commands she followed, and his strategy at the end of the day. That last gambit against the Gallade wasn't something he was proud of.

It needed to be done, though. Interpol needed all eyes on him. Years competing in the League had shown him the best way to do that.

Decimate your opponent in the first match, build a charming or terrifying persona, and command powerful Pokemon. Do that? And an audience of millions would flock to your match in giddy anticipation.

He had been silent for a while now, so Ash sighed and shook his head. "It's fine. I was just doing my duty."

Looker frowned, patting him on the shoulder. "Well, your job is over for now. Take some time to relax and clear your head. It'll help prepare you for what's ahead-"

"Well, well. What have we here?"

The three agents blinked in surprise. Ash recognized that voice. Petrovic and Ash both glanced down the hallway to see Cynthia coming towards them. If the pleased smile on her face was any indication, she was looking for them.

Looker audible gulped and paled, tugging at the collar of his trench coat. He plastered an easy smile on his face and turned to greet the Sinnoh Champion, moving in front of Ash and Petrovic.

"C-Cynthia! Good to see you," Looker said. "How long have you been there?"

Ash and Petrovic exchanged a look. Had Looker just stuttered? He never did that!

The blond bombshell chuckled, stopping in front of the man. "Not long. I was curious to meet Spartan after his performance in the Contest and his battle just now."

"He's a little busy. I don't think he'll have time for that." Looker told her.

Her gray eyes flicked between Looker and Ash for a moment. Her smile took on a teasing edge. "Ah, I see. So, he's one of yours. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. You agents always have such a… unique way of battling."

That was one way of putting it.

Looker cleared his throat. "Regardless, he's had a long day. He was just about to retire to his room. I'm sure you'll have plenty of time to talk with him another day."

Not if Ash had anything to say about it. She may not have been a former traveling companion, but Cynthia and him were well acquainted. He wasn't risking her putting the pieces together and siccing that Garchomp of hers on him.

No sane man courted Cynthia's interest.

Cynthia frowned. "What a shame. And after I came all this way."

Looker shifted uneasily. "Yes… such a shame."

"I guess you'll just have to entertain me." She purred, tracing her nails across his chest and snatching his tie in her hand.

"M-me?" Looker asked.

"Of course. It's been so long since we last spoke. Even longer since we've seen each other in person." She winked at him. "I think it's about time we caught up. After all, it's not every day one of Interpol's ace operatives does security for a simple festival."

He frowned. "That's classified."

"And there it is. The one word to kill every mood." Rather than disappointed, Cynthia looked more excited now. Like the challenge of cracking Looker excited her the same as any battle. "Guess we'll just need to find something else to do."

"But-"

"No buts!" She turned and walked away, dragging Looker behind her by his tie. "So long, you two! Hope you don't mind me kidnapping your boss for a bit."

Ash watched the two of them go, tilting his head to the side. Looker seemed both afraid and excited. He wondered why.

"Brown-eyed, brunette bastard…." Petrovic mumbled.

Ash blinked, turning to look at his superior. "What do you mean?"

"Let me put it to ya this way, kid." He said. "Being partnered with Looker is like watching another man drown while yer dying of thirst. Son of a bitch always did have the best luck."

"I'm… not sure I follow?"

Petrovic scowled in disgust. "Course ya don't. Yer like a mini-him." He shook his head with a sigh. "Just go, would ya? Take his advice and retire early tonight. Enjoy the festival, grab some food, hire a hooker. Whatever it is you kids do for fun nowadays."

It was a testament to his time working with Petrovic that Ash didn't stammer or blush at his partners vulgar suggestion. Instead, he shrugged and left the older man to stew in his annoyance.

Whatever was going on between Looker and Petrovic was no business of Ash's. He needed food and a warm bed. Maybe a good movie to distract him.

Anything to take his mind off what he'd just done, and the stunning sapphire eyes in the crowd that had seen it all.

---

"I really appreciate you doing this, Anabel. It means a lot."

Smiling, Anabel leaned back in her seat. "After all you've done for me, it's the least I can do, Scott."

The two of them were sitting at a pleasant café in the city, relaxing with a small tray of pastries and hot coco. Espeon was in her lap, purring in delight as Anabel worked her fingers between her shoulder blades.

It had been years since she'd seen Scott, but he hadn't changed a bit. His love for sugary and greasy foods was only matched by his obsession with garish floral T-shirts. The confidence was inspiring, if nothing else.

She certainly couldn't pull off the look.

Scott shook his head, munching on a fistful of tiny cookies. "I didn't do anything you couldn't have done yourself. You were always a bright kid."

Anabel rolled her eyes. "You made me a Frontier Brain. If it weren't for you offering me the position, I never would have been able to help my family. Thanks to you, my family doesn't have to work again." She crooked a finger at him. "So, accept the praise when I give it."

He held up his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. I know better than to argue with a girl your age." Scott said. "Doesn't change the fact I appreciate your help. You advertising the Battle Frontier means a lot."

She shrugged. "I know you've always wanted it to be a competitor to the Pokemon League. If I'm going to be on camera for the foreseeable future, then I might as well use the opportunity to help a friend."

"I've been meaning to ask, how did you become a judge?" Scott leaned forward, sunglasses flashing in the light. "You're up there with the Princess of Hoenn and Sinnoh's Champion. Must have pulled a lot of strings to be lumped in with those heavy hitters."

Anabel took a long sip from her hot coco. Curiosity mixed with delight rolled off of Scott in waves. It was a warm, pleasant feeling – not unlike the drink in her hands. Her former boss had a natural disarming charisma that made him easy to talk to.

Useful in business negotiations, and even better for a mentor.

"It's more like other people pulled the strings for me." She said, "You know I don't like the spotlight."

"Doubt I could ever forget it. Your rants after those high society parties still make me laugh." He shook his head. "Just surprised you got the Devon Corporation to back you. I thought for sure they'd push for Steven or Wallace to fill in the third spot."

Things would have been much simpler if they did.

"It's just the hand I was dealt. No use complaining about it." She said.

"Guess not. Surprised Interpol let you take time off for this, though."

She and Espeon both chuckled. "This isn't a vacation. Hoenn demanded Interpol station an agent here to oversee the festival. Once they realized people wanted me as a judge, they figured they'd kill two birds with one stone."

Close enough to the truth that she wasn't lying, but just vague enough that the reality was lost on her old friend.

"Fair enough." He said. "Do you ever regret joining them? I'd take you back in a heartbeat if you do."

"I'm flattered you think so highly of me." She leaned back with a sigh. "But that life just wasn't for me. Even if it's more stressful and some people can get on my nerves, I'm happier with Interpol. I do so much good for the world with them."

Scott leaned back, dunking a mini éclair in a cup of hot coco. "As long as you're happy, I can't complain. Least of all, since you're still helping me out." He smirked. "But… if you really want to help advertise the Battle Frontier, there is something else you could do."

She and Espeon exchanged a look, tilting their heads to the side. "What?"

"Challenge Cynthia to a match and trounce her on national TV," He declared. "A battle like that is sure to draw eyes our way!"

Anabel couldn't help it. She laughed, happy to see that Scott's insane ideas were the same as ever. Whatever the coming days had in store for her, at least she had the chance to relax with an old friend for now.

It was the little things in life that mattered most of all.

---

Max thrust his fist into the air, a skip in his step. "I can't believe we did it, Kirlia! We actually made it past the first round!"

The tournament was filled to the brim with high-level competitors. Former League winners, type specialists, and everything in-between. After the brutal beat down Spartan had given his opponent during his match, Max feared he'd go down just as easily.

Mercifully, his own opponent wasn't nearly as strong as Spartan. While the match had been tough, Max and his team had won in the end. All thanks to Kirlia's quick thinking and expertise with telekinesis.

The Psychic in question mumbled something halfheartedly.

He frowned. "Is everything alright? You've been acting weird ever since we saw Spartan's match earlier."

Max hadn't thought anything of it at first, but it was going on for too long. Normally, she'd be dancing with joy and running towards the nearest food truck after winning a match. To see her so quiet and withdrawn made him worried.

Kirlia shook her head. While they would have liked to communicate telepathically, her powers weren't strong enough for that yet. Max longed for the day he could hear her voice. It would make traveling much less lonely if he could hold an actual conversation with someone.

"Are you sure?" He asked.

She nodded, barely even glancing at the hot dog cart they passed by.

Max sighed. "Well, if you're sure- oof!"

Max collided with someone and stumbled to the ground. His glasses tumbled off his face in the scuffle, leaving him lost in a blurred world. With an annoyed growl, he felt around for where they could have landed.

"Watch where you're going!" He said.

"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to run into you!" The owner of the voice slid his glasses back onto his face. "Are you okay?"

Max's retort died on his lips as he froze.

Standing before him was a girl around his age. With dazzling ocean blue eyes and a smile to match, she disarmed his anger in an instant. Her chocolate brown hair was impressively long, even when done up in two buns on the side of her head.

"Uh…." He trailed off.

The girl frowned, tipping her pink and white hat up to get a better look at him. "Did you hit your head? Do you need me to take you to a doctor?"

When she reached out to check him for injuries and her fingers brushed against his skin, Max blushed and rapidly stood back up. Kirlia's laughter behind them only made it worse.

"I-I'm fine! Just a little dazed is all!"

The brunette breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks Arceus. I don't know what I'd do if you were hurt." She said. "Sorry for running into you. It's my first time in Sootopolis. Everything here is new to me, so I kind of got a little distracted."

He looked away, trying to get his blush under control. "Don't worry about it. I should have been watching what I was doing, anyway."

She chuckled. "I don't know about that. You'd think that being observant would naturally come with being a Trainer, but I'm as oblivious as they come. Lucky me."

He blinked. "You're a Trainer?"

The girl nodded. "Yep! I'm from Unova, but when I heard about this festival and the tournament being held here, I just had to take part!" She pumped her fist in the air. "I even managed to win my first match! It's straight to the top for me!"

He grinned, pushing his glasses up his nose. "I wouldn't get so cocky. I'm in the tournament too, you know. And not to toot my own horn, but I'm pretty good."

Not that he had any chance of winning, but this girl didn't need to know that.

The girl gasped. "You are? What a coincidence!" She smiled. "I know! Why don't we grab some food?"

He blinked. "Why?"

"Well, I do need to make it up to you for bumping into you." She said, "Plus, maybe we can strategize and share what we know about the other Trainers in the tournament! It'll be fun!"

He was tempted to say no since he didn't know her. There was every chance she'd be his opponent in the future, after all. Giving away his strategies was just a recipe for disaster.

One look at that cute smile of hers made any resistance futile.

He blushed again, unable to meet her eyes. "S-sure. Why not? Kirlia and I could use some food."

He pointedly ignored Kirlia, wiggling her eyebrows at him from behind the girls back.

Grabbing his hand, the girl dragged him behind her. "Let's get going then."

"Wait! You haven't even told me your name!" He said. "I'm Max!"

She tossed a wink back at him. "It's Rosa! Don't forget it! Pretty soon, the whole world's gonna know it!'

---

... Yeah, I know I said not to expect another chapter in such a short time, but happy holidays! Consider this a late gift from me to you! I hadn't initially planned on doing this, but the excitement of the reviews and the kind words of people I've spoken to gave me the push I needed to get two chapters out in a month.

Hopefully, you lot enjoyed the character progression and action shown in this chapter. It's a small taste of what the competition aspects of the arc will be like. Even some more hints at romance. For those of you curious, next chapter is going to be pretty heavy on the Advanceshipping, so I hope you all can enjoy/tolerate that! It'll be running parallel to the main plot of the story for the arc.

Hope you all enjoy Rosa's introduction as well. She'll be very important going forward too. Though, in what way I'll leave up to you all to guess.

As far as the contest goes, it'll be over in another two chapters. At that point, I'll declare a winner and reveal the Commanders and Director's identities. Then whoever wins will get their oneshot - whatever that may be.

Beyond that? We've finally reached a massive milestone! Nearly 300k words, 20 chapters, over 100 followers and favorites, and countless reviews. I'm so happy to have reached this point. I really do appreciate it.

I hope y'all have a nice holiday season. Let me know your thoughts, theories, and anything else on your mind. Until next time!