A ship tore through the ocean, shifting the waves that battered against it. The warm breeze echoed sentiments of a simpler time and the sun beating down on the passengers echoed the feeling of sweat. As the ship got closer to its destination, it sailed towards a beautiful island called Alto Mare, which hung just off the coast of the Johto region. It was summer and the ship was packed with lots of tourists eager to explore the place, but none were more eager than Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town.
Hanging close to the bow, Ash watched his best friend and first partner, Pikachu, standing on one of the ship's rails. Pikachu's ears and tail blew in the wind. It was quite the sight, seeing the yellow mouse watching the ocean beneath surge up and down while sprays occasionally hit him. Ash, however, was content to bask in the sun.
"Pikachu! Are you ready to come down yet?" He asked just loud enough to not bother the people crowding on the deck.
Pikachu looked back at his trainer, shaking his head to indicate that he was not ready to come down. Ash took this news rather poorly. 'Aw… The buffet is going to be done right as we reach Alto Mare,' he lamented, having looked forward to the many different items on the menu.
Just behind the raven-haired man was another person who watched him with an awe-inspired gaze. Of course, that person didn't want to get caught gawking, so he quickly turned away, knowing that perhaps he'd see him later.
Ash heard footsteps approaching from the side. The person stood next to Ash, looking curiously at his Pikachu. "Same old Ash. Always thinking with your stomach," he said, flashing a familiar grin.
It took Ash a moment. Then he turned to see Brock. "Brock? Brock! How have you been?!" Ash brought his hand up, and his friend returned a high five with a cheerful smile.
"Just been traveling for a while and learning all I can. I got called about a job here in Alto Mare. So, the missus and I packed up and headed out," Brock explained to the raven-haired man.
Ash couldn't believe just how coincidental it all sounded. "Really?" He questioned.
"I just happened to announce my vacation not too long ago…" He trailed off, turning to his friend. "Are you sure it's not because of that?" He inquired with a small grin.
Brock shook his head, "Nah, even though I wouldn't mind seeing you around. This is pure happenstance. There's a tournament going on the other side of the island." He told Ash who looked even more eager.
"A tournament?! I never heard anything about it." Ash grimaced, feeling a bit dejected.
"Don't beat yourself up. It's the second annual Altomare Cup. It's not bound to be high on the radar. And of course, there's the Tour De Altomare happening at the end of the week too." Brock pointed out, even though Ash already knew that.
Ash looked at Brock expectantly, "Are there any more openings?"
Sadly, Brock shook his head. "No. Whoever's in has already signed up." The only way a potential opening could happen is if someone dropped. However, some of the bigger names decided not to show. It's not going to be a fierce competition per se." Brock pulled out a brochure, "See? I think they're trying to push the event to the tourists and maybe make some new names pop up in the circuit. Two back-to-back events happening in a week are sure to get tourist's attention after all." Brock stated, while Ash looked even more distraught.
"Talk about my luck…," Ash trailed off in disdain.
"Look at the bright side. At least if you had been able to sign up, Tobias isn't here to clock you." Brock smiled.
Ash shook his head at that, "I think I could have taken him on at least nowadays."
Brock did have to give Ash credit, "Yeah, maybe it wouldn't be one-sided today."
The boat's horn sounded, signaling its imminent arrival at the harbor. Ash pushed away those downtrodden feelings, replaced by a form of anxious anticipation. It had been quite a while since he'd set foot on the island. Ten years were a long time, and Ash wasn't sure that his presence would be welcome by a certain someone.
Ash had a burning question that ached to be answered at the back of his mind. This question was something so personal that it made his heart tick just a bit higher than usual. Brock noticed the change in his behavior and wore a rather inquisitive look on his face.
"Actually Ash, I have a question for you. Why, after becoming the World Champion, did you decide to visit Altomare of all places?"
That did it. Ash had so many thoughts rushing through his mind. It had only been a few months since Brock and Misty had left to do their duties at their respective gyms. Ash had gone home for a moment, and that small visit had emboldened him to a different kind of journey. He just wasn't sure how to approach it.
Ash shook his head, banishing these ideas. "You remember when we saved Altomare, right?"
Brock crossed his arms. "Yes, it was quite the event. I can only imagine how bad it would've ended had we not been here." Ash nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, well… I got an email from Bianca a few weeks ago asking if I would come up." Ash had kept in contact with a lot of his friends over the past, though some of them had stopped communicating as often. He'd made sure to keep Altomare in his thoughts.
Brock's smile was slowly becoming a smirk. "Oh… I see. Looks like you're growing up nicely," the twenty-five-year-old man remarked.
Ash quickly replied, "I began my journey ten years ago. Of course I've grown up!"
Brock nodded, "Yep. Still the same Ash. So, are you going to ask her out?" He teased, making the raven-haired man blush and look to Pikachu for help.
Pikachu merely seemed to laugh at his trainer. Ash sighed in frustration, but Brock was still waiting for an answer.
"Well… I don't know."
Brock was unconvinced by the answer, but he relented, "Hopefully you'll figure it out by the time you get off the ship. As for me? I've gotta go," He had his PokeGear out, seeing a text from someone.
Ash was about to just focus on his partner until his mind suddenly made him do a double-take back at Brock, "Hold on! Did you say that you had a Mrs?"
Brock arched an eye at Ash, "Yeah and she's the most beautiful woman in the world! You'll meet her later. See you around, alright?" He waved as he moved off into the distance.
Ash returned the wave before shifting his attention back to Pikachu just in time to see a particularly strong wave crash against the ship. The spray was sent flying high into the air, covering Pikachu in a drenching salty mess.
"CHU!" He screeched as Ash chuckled at the sight.
Pikachu gave him an irritated scowl, but eventually, the infectious sight of his friend laughing would break down that irritation with no trouble. Prancing down the bow, he jumped onto Ash before shaking his matted fur and spreading droplets of water all over his friend. Ash struggled at first, but there was no stopping this assault and he gave up. Laughing all the while was Pikachu who celebrated his victory.
Some of the passengers made light of it while the two passed by the onlookers. Eventually, those people would go back to what they were doing. The first person who had looked Ash's way didn't just move on. In fact, that person was pumped.
"So, that's Ash? The Ash." That thought alone was also voiced since they couldn't keep their excitement down, "I can't wait, I'm going to battle him!" That person shouted, earning the trainer some odd looks.
That person immediately turned around and walked off only to immediately bump into someone. Hitting the ground, the thing they hit spoke up.
The voice was unmistakably a young man's, "Hey, watch where you're going, kid." He rebuked the boy while looking in the direction of where Ash had just been.
The kid in particular took offense, "I'm no kid! The name's Sato!" Sato exclaimed, making the onlookers who had looked away start taking an interest again.
Now that Sato could see him plainly, this teen was quite a bit older than himself. In fact, he looked to be sixteen making a three-year difference. That's when he recognized something else about him, but it couldn't be.
"Y- You're Koro!" He'd seen some of his matches and how fierce Koro could be on the battlefield. However, his career has taken a notable downturn in the last few years.
"That's right, Kid. Now step off. I've got business to attend to." Koro replied, making sure to hammer home the name "Kid".
With that, Koro left the stunned Sato sitting on the deck. He watched and waited before finally picking himself up. Sighing, Sato decided to also head that way or at least he tried to. The wind picked up and his hat blew off his head. Focusing on the cap, he started running toward the edge of the ship.
Soaring through the clouds were two figures that were invisible to the naked eye. They were just above the ship and saw all the new people coming to their island. One of them was particularly excited. This week was usually a grand celebration for Altomare. Lots of food and people from all different walks of life ended up on the island.
The first one grumbled loudly, 'Sis… We need to go back. We shouldn't get this close to humans.' But his sister didn't pay him any mind.
She loved seeing human architecture and often enjoyed watching movies with her big sister. The only one to object to these things being her brother who always brought up defending Altomare. They did that all the time though. Her brain operated on fun and that came first much to her brother's annoyance.
'But brother! We-' Her protesting was cut off.
'We do this every year. You always fly too close to the sun and I'm just looking out for you.' He stated while they flew through a cloud, covering them in refreshing water.
She puffed her cheeks out in indignation, but he was only telling the truth, 'But it's just so fun to see all these new people.' Her eyes locked onto the edge of the ship, catching sight of all these new faces.
'I'm going to prank some of them.' She declared with an eager invisible grin.
Rolling his eyes, he couldn't help letting a crack in his armor, a small smile, 'Just be careful.' He warned.
The last thing he needed to hear about was her getting captured. That would be one big can of worms. Gracefully shifting to the side, the wind contoured his frame as he turned back toward Altomare. His sister followed his lead.
Sato ran towards the edge. His hat swung over the banister and so did Sato jumping right with it. There it was, his hat clenched tightly in his fist. A victorious smile on his face was quickly replaced with a horrified expression. Gravity began to take its toll, dragging him to the ocean below.
"AHHHHHHH!" He shouted seeing the water get closer and closer. His life flashed before his eyes.
'I didn't even live that long!' Thirteen years and this was it.
Just as he was about to have the world's worst belly flop, Sato felt the wind die down around him. Just a few feet off from touching the ocean. Heart hammering, sweat drenching his clothes, and panicked breathing were the only things he felt. His mind was racing, wondering why he was floating.
His heart started to ease up once Sato realized that he was safe. To his left floated the sister who was examining him closely, not that he would ever know. Sato tried moving his hands, but found that he was unable to.
Latias smiled from behind her invisibility, 'You're lucky, huh?'
Sato shook his head side to side after hearing some voice in his head, "Uh? Lucky?" He questioned awkwardly, which she giggled at.
Her brother swooped down and gave her a disarming frown. Too bad for him that she couldn't see it. Feeling his presence, she backed up slightly.
Seeing the current situation for himself made him sigh, 'This human was clearly not right in the head. Should've let him go.'
She frowned, not that he would know, 'And that's wrong. We're guardians, you know?'
'Of the city! Not random humans.' Focusing on the human he growled, 'Guess we can at least get him to land. Let's get back to the garden after we drop him off.' With that, he flew off having his sister follow behind him.
"Hey! Is anyone there?!" Sato shouted, but nobody answered.
Sato was still very confused, but then his body was tugged forward. Sailing through the air without a clue was the young teen. The water rippled beneath him as he passed over. Several Pidgey and Pidgeotto were surprised to see the human shooting by, giving him wide-eyed looks. Sato smiled and embraced this feeling of freedom. Though it didn't allow him to move his arms or legs, it was still an exhilarating experience. Even though he was traveling through the heavy gales of ocean wind. He didn't need to close his eyes and his hair wouldn't whip around either. A dock was coming into view.
Sato began to panic, unsure of how to stop and surprising himself once his body began to move faster toward it. His heart started to race again, expecting a collision. Reflexively closing his eyes and… nothing. He was floating just above the dock when he opened his eyes again. Sato could only watch as his feet tapped against the ground. In his mind, he swore that someone or something was watching him.
Then the hold was dropped and control was given to his legs that were unaccounted for causing him to fall forward onto his face. The sister giggled, but she was tapped on the shoulder by her brother who pulled her in the opposite direction.
'Come on, let's go.'
With a little nod, she followed him. However, she took a look back at the teenager once again before making a mental note to mess with him later. Sato picked himself up shakily, feeling a bit of pain. Still unsure of whether he was being watched or not. He continued looking around cautiously. She smirked and flew off.
Despite the strange way he got to land, Sato remembered why he jumped in the first place. He unruffled the cap in his hand and placed it on his head. One last look around and this time he was assured to be alone. At least, he hoped.
Mumbling a thank-you to whatever had helped him, Sato headed into the city.
~Lorenzo's Shop~
Right beside an open canal that led to the ocean was an older man working on various gondolas. He was sweating in the heat of the day, moving around wood and pushing his body to the limit. All in all, a fine way to spend his time. He was getting up in his years. Every minute had a new ache and every new morning came a new ailment. He was anxious for the next generation and if there would be anyone able to take it on.
Wiping the sweat from his brow, he could only grunt, "Urgh…" He calmly looked over the work he'd done.
The gondola he was putting all his effort into was contoured perfectly. Each design was carved lovingly by the older gentleman. It was almost a shame he'd have to sell it. At the end of the day, this was the way. He felt like he was forgetting something important. That's when his eyes widened and he looked up at his home.
"Bianca! Bianca?" The older man's voice echoed toward his homestead.
From the second-story window, a familiar face popped out, "Yes, Grandpa?!" She questioned as he smiled.
"Isn't it getting close to that time?! He should be getting here any minute!" He replied and Bianca nodded.
"Right! I'll go meet him at the port. Just make sure you keep you-know-who distracted!" She shouted back, seeing her Grandpa nod.
"Of course!"
With that, she shut the window and quickly left the room. Hurrying down the stairs, she grabbed her beret. Making sure it was neatly placed upon her head, the young woman headed out the door. She had an eagerness that was unbecoming of someone who was twenty-one years of age, but Bianca could make an exception for this day. After all, she had to make her best friend's day and she damn well would.
Walking toward the canal, she happened to see a young teen walking by. He looked confused and wary as if expecting something to jump out at him. If Bianca weren't so busy she'd take the time to ask him if he was alright. No time to waste though. She hurried on past him, leaving the poor teen to figure things out.
~In The Ship Dining Room~
Ash had stuffed himself full of the fanciful delight he'd found in the main hall. There were all kinds of people chatting it up and schmoozing around. The exact opposite of what the young World Champion wanted to deal with. He and his buddy were carefully and skillfully dodging most conversations. Ash finally made it to the end of the hall, finding that the food was slowing their movement.
Pikachu was practically hanging onto Ash for dear life after the feast, "Chuuu…." He protested all the quick movements he was being forced to endure.
"Pikachu, you should be more used to moving around than me. I know you can take it." Ash continued forward doing his best to reduce all the shaking, but he could only do so much.
Pikachu appreciated the effort nonetheless and Ash felt his pokegear starting to vibrate. Taking it out of his pocket, the raven-haired man saw that it was Bianca calling. He clicked a button and put it to his ear.
"Yeah, Bianca?" He asked while Pikachu leaned in.
"I'm getting closer to the docks. Are you already outside?"
"Uh, I'm trying to get there, but there's a lot of people in the way." He walked through two people having a conversation who looked at him with a glare of frustration.
He held his hand to the mic, covering it so he could give the two a mareepish look, "Sorry! Just gotta get somewhere!"
"Ash? Ash!" She exclaimed as he put the phone back to his ear.
"Sorry about that, Bianca! I'm hurrying as fast as I can!" He heard some mildly annoyed sighs, but she relented.
"Okay! Just hurry up and get out here! I'll see you." A click and the line went silent.
Ash got just to the end of the hall, but it wouldn't be that easy, "Hey!" He stopped in his tracks.
"You're Ash Ketchum! Let's Battle!" Ash fought the urge to turn around, knowing that locking eyes meant committing to the act.
So, he ignored the voice and left out the door with a quick slam. He heard the barest hint of frustrated yelling, but there was no time for that. Ash had other things to do after all. Footsteps were beginning to follow the young Champion, so he started moving that much faster through the crowds on deck. Eventually, he found himself getting closer to the exit ramp and quickly barged his way down. Hitting the docks, Ash grinned to himself.
"Pika!" Pikachu quipped, irritated by his return to full speed in the last bit.
"Sorry, Pikachu. I'm just trying to get down here. You know Bianca expects us." He tried reasoning with his best friend, but Pikachu just shook his head.
The little mouse was tired after eating all that food. He expected to get a nice long rest soon and Ash would oblige him. He heard some slow footsteps making their way closer and he saw a familiar face.
"Bianca! It's so good to see you!" He moved closer as she closed the distance and hugged him much to his surprise.
He blushed a light red and gulped, feeling her arms hold him tightly. A few onlookers smiled at the two and even commented on it. Ash finally wrapped his arms around her and relaxed into it.
"Bi- Bianca? Are you?" Ash felt her arms retracting and so did he as she stepped back.
"It really is good to see you again." She said warmly, brushing her hair to one side.
"R- Right… It's good to see you too!" He replied, looking away.
Ash wasn't sure what to make of that, but he had to roll with it. So, the two walked together through the streets of Altomare. Enjoying each other's company along the way.
"What took you so long to visit us again?" The Paintress inquired, trying to pry for answers.
"Well, you saw my last few matches right?"
Bianca gave him a blank look, "That was over four months ago, Ash. I'm talking about now. You know, I heard you saved a certain two Pokemon from a hunter." She told him to which he chuckled nervously.
With no direct answer from Ash, she continued, "And that was two months ago. You've had all the time in the world and you still didn't visit sooner."
Ash tried to tactfully give her a decent answer, "Uh… Well… I was going to." He gave her another nervous laugh. He saw a devious smirk on her face that scared him.
"Guess the Big Bad Champion can't handle himself around a woman." She teased, moving closer and making Ash blush brightly.
"Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked at Bianca who then gave him a gentle coo. The adorable mouse was upping his charm by the second.
"Hey Pikachu! Maybe you can show Ash how to do it." She teased the trainer some more.
Pikachu jumped off Ash's shoulder eagerly and into Bianca's arms where he nuzzled her chest. She pet him lovingly and the mouse looked back at his trainer, sticking his tongue out. Ash would roll his eyes, chuckling at his best friend's antics.
Ash turned away, "Bianca?"
"Yes?"
"I was wondering how Latias has been since we last chatted?" Ash asked.
Bianca was still rubbing Pikachu, but she frowned, "She's helped the new guardians out. These last few months though have taken a toll on her and she's under the weather." Ash turned back to her, looking worried.
"Did something happen?" His question wasn't very loud, but it rang in Bianca's ears regardless.
Bianca gave him a look through narrowed eyes, "You happened." She stated, confusing the young man.
"What do you mean?" He asked the Paintress.
Bianca sighed, she couldn't really hide this from him. Ash would find out just how hurt her best friend was. Latias had looked shaken like a can of soda waiting to burst. Like a person who had bottled up their feelings for so long only to find that the person they longed for could have done something to help relieve these thoughts.
"When she heard of your valiant rescue of her fellow guardians, it shook her to the core." Bianca still remembered the visible sadness upon Latias's face, "She wondered why you didn't come to visit despite keeping up with us. Latias always held hope that you'd come and you had the opportunity." She accused, making Ash feel downtrodden like earlier.
Ash sighed. "I guess I did take my time. Things just tend to happen on my end," he admitted, reflecting on why he hadn't visited earlier.
His eyes were hidden beneath the shadow of his hat. So, that was why Bianca had insisted on him coming here. She made it sound like it would be a fun vacation, but Ash was here to help Latias. He'd had some reservations about it in the first place. The wording in said email had been strange and he felt unwelcomed, but the young man shook it off. Ash was a Champion now and that meant he wouldn't back down from a challenge.
"So, where is she?" He asked the brunette.
"She's…"
~Secret Garden~
Laying sprawled out on her back, wings covering the grassy earth was the aforementioned Latias. She stared at the illusionary ceiling, seeing the outside world from her garden. It was a depressing view. At least, it spoke to her current situation. The eon Pokemon wasn't feeling particularly well.
It had been ten years since her brother had left this world. Ten years since her potential spark had gone on his journey. Ten years that Latias spent alone in that sense. She wished to be numb to it because that spark never came back to Altomare. The Dragoness did her duties and kept Alto Mare safe, so why was she cursed to be alone?
This guardianship was shared with two others now and she took care of them as well. In the back of Latias' mind, she still wondered what could've been. Traveling the world with Ash was a dream she'd encounter often whenever her eyelids shut. To see beyond this small island city. To touch things she'd never felt before. Maybe even foster a relationship with the one she cared for.
All of this and more, she wanted. Her wanton approach to this would slip through her claws, opening her eyes and seeing the same roof. Today was the legend's day off, but she wasn't taking advantage of it. Latias chose to wallow in her self-pity. Especially when she heard that Ash had saved her fellow guardians. It was like a slap in the face.
Didn't he have time to see her? Did Latias not make any impression on Ash despite them talking every once in a while? Would he even look her way? She shouldn't be thinking about those things, her little kiss had been so long ago. The questions piled up with not much of an answer and left her with a bitter bile that refused to stop filling. It had shaken her and even the dreams of the outside world were further away than ever. Especially counting the fact that sleep itself had started escaping Latias.
With careful attention to her wings, the dragoness shifted onto her undercarriage. The grass tickled her stomach and a giggle came from the feathery dragon before she would just stop. Latias had handled the last ten years rather well, pushing aside these thoughts as easily as water. Now they wouldn't leave her alone like trying to swim through oil or quicksand. A constant nagging twinge had emboldened itself upon the Twin's return from their adventure and she hated it.
These thoughts were a torrent of water, swirling over and over again in a circle. Lowering her eyelids in annoyance, Latias tried her best to find a comfortable position to let her weary body rest. Still nothing.
'I guess I shouldn't have bothered thinking about life beyond this place,' Latias relented, wanting nothing more than to sleep, 'At least nobody will bother me today.'
Two large splashes echoed from the fountain almost as if they were laughing at her for thinking that the dragoness would ever have alone time. Huffing loudly, Latias felt the wind swirl around her as two very familiar Twins revealed themselves to her. The two Pokemon looked at her with some sort of expectation.
Latias gave them a blank look before rolling her eyes, 'Really?' The Twins continued to stare at her and she gave up on this contest, 'How was the patrol?' She asked them, not really interested in the topic.
The first to answer was the smaller of the siblings, 'Mama, we saw a big ship and there were a lot of people on it! Then this one boy was crazy and jumped off the edge of the ship!'
'And of course, she decided to save him!' Her brother cut in making the other puff out her cheeks.
'He's cute…' She trailed off, making her brother glare.
Latias gave her a look of sympathy. It reminded her of herself from when Ash had first visited. She figured that asking who he was would be the first step. So, she did.
'Beni, who was this boy?' Latias asked the floating Pokemon.
She smiled, 'He is… Huh. I never asked him his name,' Beni pondered it for a moment, shrugging after a few seconds, 'I only called him lucky! I intended to see him around. I'm going to prank him!' She smiled, making Latias worry for the boy's safety.
'Just be careful, he's not as durable as you or your brother. Speaking of…' She turned to him, 'Latios, how are you?' She questioned the grumbling dragon.
'I'd be better if my sister would stop messing around with humans. Just because we protect the city doesn't mean that everyone who lives here counts,' He flinched when Latias glared at him.
Latias gave an angry trill, 'Your job is to protect the city and everyone in it!' She shouted, making him float backward and hold his clawed hands up, 'That's what I've told you many times!' Latias remarked, gritting her teeth.
Latios nearly shrunk under her glare, but tried to protest anyway, 'But… He was from outside the city? Mama?' He defaulted to saying what he saw her as, trying to gain sympathy.
Latias looked unamused and at worse, more frustrated, 'If people are visiting, you make sure they stay safe too,' She admonished the floating dragon who seemed cowed by her threatening visage.
She shook her head, eyes softening, 'Anything else to report?' She questioned the duo.
Beni looked up, her eyes bright, 'Oh! There was a Pikachu on the front bow of the ship. He was just standing there on the edge looking really serious like a Mouse Gargoyle!' She waved her clawed hands, imitating his flopping ears in the wind.
Latios recovered from his verbal beating quickly, 'You always pick rather mundane aspects to remember from our flights. I think I ate a Pikachu one day last week,' He turned to Latias who seemed oddly shaken.
Latias' eyes widened slightly, 'A Pikachu… Did you happen to see anyone else nearby?' She questioned, gears creakily turning in her head.
Latios looked at his sister who seemed to be pondering on it, 'You know… Now that I think about it. Why don't I just show you, Mama? Sight-Sharing would be fun right now!' She exclaimed, beginning to glow.
Latias watched Beni as the landscape swirled around them. The ship appeared with all its majesty intact. The first-person view was like a roller coaster moving all about the place. Latias found herself agape at all the sights, things she should be doing herself. Then she saw the yellow mouse.
Pikachu stood on the edge and just behind the mouse stood Brock and… him. The rest of it went as usual until Latias saw Beni staring backward at the boy she rescued. The sight-sharing cut off there.
Beni smiled at Latias, but she only felt a fiercer depression take hold of the older dragoness. She looked a bit more despondent and it hurt the smaller eon Pokemon. Beni reached out, but her Mama turned away.
'I need to be alone… Please,' Latias winced, it hurt to say that and even more so if she'd have to look at Beni in the face.
This was easier in her opinion. Beni moved back, dipping her head despite her surrogate mother not seeing the gesture. Latios patted Beni on the shoulder with a nod and the eon twins left Latias alone.
Latias shuddered, tears rolling down her cheeks, 'So, now is a good time? Ten years,' Her thoughts were a mix. She wanted to be excited, but the time spent alone wouldn't allow this. It was painful.
Her claws gouged into the dirt below as she tore up the earth. Years of anxious hope and now he was coming back? Why now?! These questions hurt more than the dreams she had nearly let go of before. An enraged growl and another few claw marks into the grass could be heard by the younger twins who weren't too far away.
Latios looked at his sister, 'Wasn't that the guy who saved us?' He asked her which made the Dragoness ponder on it.
'Yeah! His name is Ash and he helped mend my wing!' Latias arched an eye, a glint in her eye, 'Maybe he can help her too,' She gave an intense look that stirred Latios from his thoughts.
Even though Latios wasn't a fan of humans, he couldn't deny that Ash had done wonders for him and his Sister. Maybe things might work out since he's back. So, the two nodded and intended to make sure that this meeting would happen no matter what.
~Outside Lorenzo's Shop~
Bianca walked up to her Grandpa's shop and to her surprise, she saw the teen from earlier hanging about. Seems like he was sitting on the edge of the canal. He looked like he was better from earlier. Ash had taken the time to look out over the water passing underneath the bridge. He felt anxiety pooling up and wanted to release some of it somehow. Pikachu was riding on his shoulder having rejoined him at some point during the long walk.
"Hey Ash? I'm going to go check on Grandpa. Are you good staying out here?" She questioned him as Ash nodded.
He smiled awkwardly, "I do need a little time to rest. Just to collect myself. I shouldn't be long," Ash tried to sound confident, but wasn't sure it came across that way.
Bianca gave him a nod of her own, "Okay, just don't go too far." With that, she left.
The teen who had been sitting on the edge of the canal had looked up. Seeing Ash here was quite the surprise. He pushed himself up to his feet.
Throwing all caution to the wind, the teen called out to Ash, "Hey! Did she say you were…" He trailed off, realizing it was indeed Ash, but he still wanted to make sure, "You're Ash, Right?!" He questioned loudly, causing the young man to nod a little hesitantly.
"Uh, Yeah? And you?" Ash asked the teen.
"Sato! It's Sato!" He said his name twice before shaking his head in embarrassment.
Ash chuckled nervously, watching this display, 'Probably a fan?' He'd met a lot of those since his famed battle with Dande.
Sato regained his bearings quickly enough, "As the challenger, I'll challenge you to a battle!" He said loudly, pointing at Ash who was already locking eyes with him.
Ash actually laughed, having received these challenges all the time, and figured he'd have a go. Besides, he needed to throw out this nervous energy and a battle might clear his head. Especially if he was going to see Latias later.
So, he nodded to the teen, "Alright! We'll do a one versus one." Ash walked down the side of the bridge.
He moved into place and Pikachu leapt off his shoulder as onlookers began to take notice. Sato and Ash reached for their belts, grabbing one Pokeball each. Sato threw the ball out first and from it burst an orange lizard that Ash recognized immediately. It was almost nostalgic to the young man.
Ash smiled, tossing his own Pokeball into the air. Out of it appeared a blue crocodile with white contours who looked particularly fierce, "Nawww!" He growled at his opponent.
The orange lizard roared back, "Charr!" He swished his tail, showing off the blazing fire on the end.
Ash watched and waited for his opponent, "You make the first move." He said, seeing Sato gulp in anticipation.
He was at a type disadvantage, but Sato couldn't let that phase him. Ash had done plenty with a type disadvantage and the young teen needed to prove himself to his idol. Clenching his fingers into a fist, Sato readied himself.
Swinging said fist to the side, Sato commanded, "Charmeleon, use Fire Punch!" The fiery lizard leapt into battle, closing the distance with his right claw covered in burning flames.
Ash smirked, "Croconaw, dodge it!"
Croconaw did so in such a way that the lizard could only gawk as the crocodile danced past the attack with his fancy footwork. Charmeleon stumbled, hopping on his left leg. He tried turning backward, but the crocodile had already opened his maw where the lizard could see a build up of water.
"Now Croconaw! Use Hydro Pump!" The command was as swift as the attack.
Pressurized water slammed into Charmeleon, sending the Pokemon crashing to the ground with little effort! Ash was glad to see that Croconaw was performing so well, 'When I took Totodile out, I didn't expect that he'd kept up with his training. I wonder how far I can take this? He's doing better than I thought,' He pondered, seeing Croconaw just standing and looking down at his opponent.
Sato was worried and the frown on his face was ever present, "Charmeleon! Are you okay?!" He exclaimed with concern.
Sato watched as Charmeleon's tail swung around enough to singe the air and he growled, standing albeit shakily to his feet. Glaring at his opponent, Charmeleon looked more determined than ever to damage Croconaw who merely closed his eyes in joy. The crocodile began to chortle, dancing and then spinning in the air. He was seemingly inviting the fire lizard to counterattack.
"Let's get him, use Thunder Punch this time!" Sato shouted, seeing his Pokemon spark on his left claw before slamming them together with his right claw. Both were enveloped in bright lightning as he charged forward. Each stomp crushed the cobblestone below with extreme prejudice. The pebbles broke into the air and with a powerful step, he swung on his opponent.
Ash didn't need to say anything and Croconaw did just as he willed it. The electric light went past the crocodile's face, but that's what Charmeleon planned for! Slinging his next electric fist straight at Croconaw's stomach. He could see the hit planting, feeling the rush of endorphins.
"Surf, let's go!" Ash commanded.
A geyser of water erupted from beneath the croc, shooting him high into the air. Charmeleon could only watch as his last ditch effort for an attack merely went through the water. Charmeleon quickly leapt backward seeing water spread out beneath Crocanaw who surged forward on the spout. Bearing down on the fire lizard, he prepared to end this battle! Sato paled, trying to figure out a good command before settling on whatever came to the forefront of his mind.
"Use Flamethrower on the water!" He shouted, hoping that Charmeleon could turn this situation around.
The fire lizard shot a gout of flames that burned brighter than he expected, Sato gasped, 'That's Blaze!' He thought, as Crocanaw saw a shocking turnabout!
His surf was steaming away and the momentum he'd shown off earlier ended with him slamming into the ground, "Croconaw?! Are you okay?" Ash questioned, but Sato wouldn't give him the time.
Sato found his footing, "Use Thunder Punch! Take out that Crocanaw!" Charmeleon proceeded to pour lightning into his claws for the second time this battle and rushed the downed Pokemon with eager delight. This time, the hit planted and shocked the crocodile out of his stupor. Then the second hit landed, sending the croc flying backward. Ash watched with an utterly stupefied expression that quickly morphed into a frown when Crocanaw hit the ground, sparks arcing up his body that made him painfully twitch.
"Alright! Croconaw, you've gotta get up! I know you can!" Ash could see him moving before jumping up on his own.
Croconaw let out an eager growl, "Cro-cro-cro-cro naw~" He danced around as if he'd not taken a hit at all, which utterly horrified the fire lizard who looked back at his trainer in a telling sign of possible defeat heading their way.
Sato didn't want to look badly in front of his idol though, "We won't give up! Not when we might have a chance! I believe in you!" He bore his soul to Charmeleon and that brought his spirit back, the flame surging on his tail.
Ash smiled, seeing this confident demeanor reminding him of his own early days. He took a deep breath, turning his hat backward and that's when he heard a few steps coming from behind.
"Looks like you're having a lot of fun." Bianca's familiar voice rang out.
Ash's smile faltered for a moment, looking at her, "Oh… Y- Yeah! Just sit back and watch! I'll show you." That's when he noticed Lorenzo standing beside her, seemingly interested in this match.
"I see, you've definitely grown, Ash." His glance at Sato made the boy shrink slightly, "You on the other hand look fresh and young. Hm…" He combed through his beard, looking between the two's Pokemon.
"Interesting…" The old man mulled it over as Ash pushed his focus back onto the match.
Seeing that Charmeleon was still glowing intensely, Ash figured that long distance fighting was a no go, "Croconaw, let's go for Jaw Lock!" With heavy steps, the croc stamped forward.
Baring his sharp row of teeth, The Jaw Lock's special properties kicked in and they began to glow blue. Watching his Pokemon launch itself at the fire lizard, Ash knew if this went through the fight would be over. Croconaw had gotten closer than Charmeleon would've liked.
Sato brought his hands close to his face, "Jump Charmeleon!" The lizard complied, hopping to one side.
Skidding along the pavement and past the young fire lizard, Croconaw shifted back toward his opponent. Charmeleon closed the distance, shocking the crocodile.
"Use Dragon Rage!" Sato shouted.
The fire lizard gathered energy in his maw that became a ball of orange light. It sparked and hummed with power as he fired it off. Being so close, Croconaw took the full force of the blast! A controlled explosion sent the poor croc flying backward.
Ash gasped, "Croconaw?!" He exclaimed, watching his Pokemon hit the railing of the bridge with a harsh snap, Croconaw fell to the floor.
Charmeleon looked very tired, the hits from before slowing him down. He turned to Sato, eager to see if he could pull off one major win with another command. His trainer hesitated for a second, then nodded.
"Finish this with Flamethrower!" Sato commanded, taking advantage of the Blaze status for this finishing move.
Ash saw Croconaw get up at the same time albeit shakily, "Croconaw! Use a Hydro Pump!"
The crocodile was slightly dazed, but his body glowed a bright blue. He stomped and put his front arms on the ground. Now on all fours, he saw the incredible burst of fire erupt from Charmeleon. Croconaw opened his maw in kind and shot a powerful rush of water.
Ash was amazed, "That's torrent!" The water attack's power had multiplied to nearly double its original strength.
Sato could only stand idly as the attacks collided. Steam filled the air and bystanders that had gathered were forced to move back. Bianca and Lorenzo were astonished, seeing the water begin to overshadow the blazing bastion of Charmeleon's final move.
Knowing it was almost over. Charmeleon tried forcing more power into it, but the flame was getting noticeably weaker. Even now, Croconaw started pushing forward. His body began to glow even brighter. The torrent became a storm surge of water and for the first time, Charmeleon felt a creeping exhaustion. Now it was a tidal wave of despair.
"Charmeleon?!" But the damage was done, Sato could only stand there as victory was taken from him.
Ash could hardly believe it, Croconaw was evolving mid-battle. The white light brightened to such a degree that it matched the sun itself before bursting away. The newly revealed Feraligatr stood triumphant and Charmeleon was sent crashing to the ground by the overwhelming force of his foe's Hydro Pump. Crushed, defeated, and utterly drenched, he lay on the ground. The fire lizard groaned while the gigantic crocodile seemed rather happy about his win. Looking at Ash, he grinned toothly.
"Heh. Good job, Feraligatr!" Ash exclaimed as he was pulled into a crushing hug by the gargantuan croc.
Seeing the battle was finished, Sato returned Charmeleon and turned to Ash. Walking up, he offered a hand, "You're everything they said you were. Ash, it was an honor to battle you!" The raven-haired man returned Feraligatr.
Ash looked at Sato and shook his hand with vigor, "It was a fun battle! I hope we'll be able to go again sometime." The raven-haired trainer let go. Then they were swarmed by onlookers who wanted to get an autograph from the acclaimed champion.
Bianca sighed, "I guess he's become quite famous."
Emphasizing the point, Ash was bombarded by questions of all kinds. He answered them as best he could but had to ignore a few of them. The bunch were so enthusiastic and even Sato got to answer some questions of his own. After about fifteen minutes it became abundantly clear that the boisterous group wasn't letting up.
Lorenzo chuckled, "They might be a while. I'll go make some tea. Make sure he doesn't get roughed up by the crowd, Bianca." He said, turning around and heading back to the house.
She smiled, a sweatdrop on her forehead to indicate that she would rather have gone with him, 'He's right… Maybe I'll just go take a seat.' Bianca sighed, sitting on a nearby bench.
Despite her thoughts, she watched as the group of people dispersed and found that Sato had been ignored for the remaining time. In fact, he looked rather out of place at that moment. Ash was chipper especially once Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder.
"Really, I've got something I've gotta do, Sato. I know we'll have an awesome rematch later. Okay?" Ash said, waving to his challenger who merely waved erratically with excitement.
Moving toward Bianca, Ash smiled, "Well, what are we waiting for? I'm ready to see her."
Bianca frowned, standing up, "I don't think you're ready for that. This isn't going to be some picnic you know." Her tone was filled with a sense of melancholy, but she'd called him here for this purpose.
It truly saddened the young woman to see her childhood friend in such an anguish-filled state. Bianca tried to talk things out with her friend, but that rarely ever worked out. Things hadn't gone her way once and anytime the topic came up. Latias tried to brush it aside and pretend there wasn't anything more to it. Her thoughts were still jumbled together and it frustrated Bianca who wanted nothing more than to see Latias filled with happiness again.
Ash was determined though, "I've seen her happy before. I'll figure out how to bring her back." The overconfident man began trudging onward despite Bianca's warnings.
~End of Chapter 1~
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