Author's Note:

Here it is, the fourth chapter and one I have been very much looking forward too. Honestly, this chapter has been my most anticipated thing to write since the Manaphy arc and Hunter J's last appearance. I'd say this regional story has two main characters, one being Drake and the other, we've seen pop up in the previous chapters... N. This is the first time we're focused on him & when our two protagonists meet. Expect this to be more of a story driven chapter rather than training, exploration, or even just typical adventure. It's also setting up a lot things for the future, including the main conflict. We also get more depth to both members of our travelling group. We've also passed another year in this series, which is nice to know and expect the next chapter on 25.12.23. I don't really want to spoil anything more so let's get into it. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin

Chapter four: N of the Beginning

His fist hit the sand bag as he withdrew and threw his second punch. Sweat poured down his face as he felt the inner anger fill his body. Glancing to the side he noticed Charizard punching his own sand bag. As his punches sped up, the image of his father's face formed onto the point where he hit.

"Gwaaa!" He cried as he fell to the side. His rugged breaths filled the room.

Closing his eyes to regain his senses, he took a moment before opening them once more. A pair of legs stood in front of him. Looking up, he locked eyes with Don George who stood strong with his arms crossed.

"Get it all out of your system?" he asked.

"For now," he murmured, standing up. Grabbing his sports bottle, he squirted the cool water over his head.

"A good workout is the best way to deal with pent up anger," he replied, "if you let it fester. When it gets too much you won't be able to stop it. Plus, if you're Pokémon see your putting the same effort in then you'll both grow closer and stronger together."

Silently nodding, he closed his eyes and let the words sink in. He was always more of a thinker with Ash being more of the active sort, but he couldn't deny how good it felt letting his rage out with each punch. Opening his eyes once more, he turned towards the treadmills.

Tepig was running across one at a decent pace. While not as fast as Jolteon or Rapidash, he was quick for his own species. His electric eeveelution taking up another treadmill. Walking over towards him, he noticed Marowak and Victreebel in a duel in the wrestling ring. It was reminiscent of a sword duel between the bone and leaf blade combo.

"Alright, let's put it to the test-" He told the fire pig, stopping the treadmill. He came to a stop, slumping down onto his belly. "I told you that this would be tough. We've had a good three-and-a-half days. I want to see if you've got it."

Letting out a low sigh, his newest capture pushed himself back up. Walking off the machine, he shook his body.

"Flame charge." He instructed.

Stomping his feet around, it took a lot longer than it should've to form the dust cloud. Orange cracks burst through before it exploded with a fireball shooting out across the floor. It lasted mere seconds before he tripped. Rolling onto his back, the flames dispersed.

"The dust cloud helps to coat the fire around the user, if not thick enough it won't work," Don George explained, "unlike flare blitz where the flames burn through the skin, this is more like armor. Hence why it doesn't cause the recoil but its no-where near as powerful either. Good news, he got the speed aspect."

"What would you recommend for continuing?" he asked.

"Just keep practising." He shrugged. "Trial and error. Every Pokémon is different, so Tepig needs to find his own sweet spot."

"Thanks... for everything-" he replied, "I probably won't be seeing you again."

"How come?" he asked.

"The protests are due to start tomorrow..." He sighed. "I've only stayed in town this long for the chance to see Plasma with my own eyes. I think it's a good idea to look your enemy right in the eye. Once there done, it'll be back on the road. I don't like hanging around without ."

"Well, I suppose this is goodbye," he replied, "I'm closing up shop for the night."

"You going to the protests?" he asked.

"No chance... with the tyrant in town trainers need this safe haven more than ever-" he replied, "I guess I can't convince you to avoid them either?"

"Last year, I was travelling the Johto region... there was a serial killer going after rocket grunts-" he replied, "he thought that he was doing the right thing too, but I found one of the scenes... blood splattered the wall of the cave and bodies piled on top of each other... I ended up informing the cops of the scene."

"That's-" His face said it all.

"My point is, even the best intentions can lead to awfulness-" he replied, "I can't just stand by and let them get away with such things either."

"I like you boy and I wish you luck in your quest-" he replied, "and remember my advice for handling that anger of yours."

"I will..." He nodded. "And thank you."

"You don't need to thank me," he smiled. "But if you're in a town, feel free to stop by the other battle clubs. Each head I specifically picked myself."

"I might just do that-" He smiled before turning back to his newest team member.

Letting out a high whistle, his fire pig turned and ran up to his side, along with his other Pokémon. One by one he returned each of his team before deciding to leave Tepig out to run around in the fresh air along with his trusted ground type. A comfortable silence filled the air as he walked out. His eyes tracked Tepig as he ran ahead, quicker than one might expect given his stature. His eyes briefly turned to Marowak before returning to the newest team member.

His thoughts returned to the fire types previous trainer. Shamus' mistake was expecting greatness without putting the work in. He meant what he said to Tepig, it'll be a lot of work, but he'll make sure the little guy reaches greatness and if they ever encounter that boy, he'll be sure to teach him a lesson too.

He turned his head and noticed a bunch of people dressed in silver, medieval gear around the park, setting up some sort of wooden stage. Banners blew in the wind with the letter P in the centre, with a blue lightning bolt going side to side. Half the background was black while the other half white.

"Maro."

"Yeah, right-" He unclipped his Pokéball. Holding it out, a red light engulfed his fire type. Clipping the device back to his belt, he reached down and held his partners hand as they continued through the park. He tried to keep his head down and not draw attention to themselves from the Plasma grunts.

"Hey kid!" He looked up and narrowed his eyes with the boy in medieval armor. "Trainers aren't welcome here."

"I thought Unova was a free region-" He sneered, turning to walk away from the trio of grunts.

"The king won't be happy if we let this disrespect pass-" Another voice growled.

"Right-" The original one agreed. "We need to liberated his Pokémon."

Stopping in his tracks, he turned and unclipped a Pokéball. Turning to face the trio of grunts, his eyes twitched. A flash of lights burst out and he studied the line-up of a Patrat, some sort of purple feline and a beige brown canine. Swallowing hard, he studied the line up in front of him.

"I'll give you one chance to back off-" He growled with emphasis on the last words. "Try to take my Pokémon and you'll make me your enemy. Now take some really good advice, you don't want to do that."

Giving it three seconds but none of them backed off. The purple feline lept forward with an extended claw stretching out.

A bone came out and struck her face, knocking her back down. Marowak lept up and grabbed his projectile. Summersaulting forward and slamming it on the ground. Sending out a powerful shock wave which knocked all six people and Pokémon down. Kneeling down, he stabled himself from also falling over.

Holding his device out, a red light shot out. His starter materialised and let out a loud roar. A flame shot down, searing the ground between them.

Landing behind with a heavy thud, he stood up and ran to climb onto his back. Picking Marowak up to place him in front, he position himself on his starter.

Staring down at the grunts and their Pokémon behind the wall of fire. He felt the same anger building up within his body. Tightening his fists on the fire flying types shoulder, he closed his eyes. Letting Don George's advice repeat in his head, he took a deep breath and relaxed slightly.

"Gwa-" his starter asked in a low growl, his mouth having flames flicker out to the sides.

"No... there not worth it-" he muttered, "fly."

Tightening his grip to keep the ground type secure, he watched as they shot up into the air. Leaving the Plasma ground on the ground to watch them leave.

The car came to a stop and the door opened. Unclipping himself, he slowly moved and stepped outside of the vehicle with the dark type Pokémon by his feet with a series of cheerful barks. Stretching his arms up, he straightened his body from the long journey here. He turned to the sage who stood, hand on door.

"Thank you for bringing me, Father Rood." He bowed.

"The honour was mine, master N," he replied, "it's important for the hero to see the work his followers are doing on his behalf. Your father shall start the presentation soon. And we've received word that the boy from Nuvema is still within the city limits."

"He's here?" he asked.

"Yes... and I'm afraid he doesn't seem to share our truth-" he replied, "he launched an unprovoked attacked on some of our loyal guards last night."

"How could he-" he stuttered slightly. "Why would Reshiram show themselves to him if-"

"Calm down, my king-" He placed a hand on his shoulder. "We don't have the answers yet, but we know the truth. He had some sort of fire flying Pokémon attack our guards yesterday. We're working on a theory he used this Pokémon to fool us into believing Reshiram picked him."

"Why would someone do that?" he asked.

"I'm afraid I don't know that either-" he replied, "which is why we still wish for you to meet him."

"B-but-"

"A wise man once said, you must keep your friends close and your enemies closer-" he replied, "if we can get a read on him... then perhaps we'll get a head start on the pending war. I know it's not easy, master N but sometimes we must do what we don't want to for the greater good."

"Right-" the sound of trumpets echoed of the park. "I suppose that's father's cue."

"Go, master N, you don't want to miss out on our message being spread further out-" He encouraged. "Your father has waited for your arrival."

Walking across the grassy field, he couldn't help but notice the large group of humans of different ages, races, and genders. Some Pokémon were even present in the group, but they were fewer and further between. Standing off to the side, his eyes turned towards the stage. A row of loyal followers dressed in the traditional Galarian-steel arms stood on the background. The instruments came to a stop and his father walked out onto the stage.

His eyes were red like roses, and he had the same pale green hair which he shares, with two locks of it sticking out by his eyes and an additional two sliding down by his shoulders. He wears a red eyepiece over his right eye, but he never disclosed the purpose. His left hand was up, waving to the crowd as his right hand remained hidden amongst the robes. A Ceremonial neck piece left his head on display, being brown with blue gems sown into the design and the Plasma emblem over his centre chest. His robe was split into two halves one half gold and the other purple, both with an eye on each. Bolts of the opposite colour surrounded each eye with a plain white gown underneath. Plain brown sandals covered his feet as he stopped centre stage.

"Greetings people of Accumula town. My name is Ghetsis Harmonia. I am here representing team Plasma. Today, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to talk to you about Pokémon liberation. I'm sure most of you believe that we humans and Pokémon are partners that have come to live together because we want and need each other. However,... Is that really truth? Have you considered that perhaps we humans... only assume that this is the truth?"

"Pokémon are subject to the selfish commands of trainers... They get pushed around when they are our "partners" at work. Forced to fight in battles for the entertainment of humans. Used as mere travel vehicles on sea or skies. Can anyone say with confidence that there is no truth in what I'm say?"

"Now ladies and gentlemen, Pokémon are different from humans. They are living beings that contain unknown potential. They are living beings from whom we humans have much to learn. Tell me, what is our responsibility towards the wonderful beings called Pokémon? That's right, we must liberate the Pokémon! Its only then, will humans and Pokémon be equals. Everyone, I end my words here today by imploring you to consider the relationship between Pokémon and people... and correct the way to proceed. We sincerely appreciate your attention and hope you'll see the truth within our words."

Closing his eyes as his father walked off the stage, surrounded by guards who lined the back. He took a deep breath as a cool chill travelled down his spin with swanna-bumps raising the hairs on the back of his neck. The low mumbles of people caused him to open his eyes once more.

"What do you think we should do?" one voice asked.

"Liberate Pokémon?" Another asked. "Is that even possible?"

Opening his eyes, he couldn't be sure which of the crowd spoke, but he relaxed slightly in place. Hearing the doubtful, even remorseful tones gave him hope.

A low bark drew his attention. The black blur which was Zorua shot off. Letting out a small groan, he took off after the dark type. Weaving through the crowds as the people dispersed, he struggled to keep track of the small creature.

"Dragon claw!"

"Keep moving! Look out for an opening then strike!"

He swallowed hard at the voices of trainers. How could they pick this time and place to battle? Are Plasma really making a difference? It's one thing to put them through this torturous sport but... this is a complete disrespect show to pick the protest itself as a battle ground.

His feet stopped as his eyes landed on the pending battle. An Axew and Tepig were moving around the grassy field, with the form swinging claws around.

Looking up to the two trainers. His rigged breath increased paces as his blinking increased, mouth dried up. Stood on one end of the field was the same boy from the news reports around Nuvema. Everything around them seems to disappear as he watches the pending battle.

He slowly started walking closer as numerous thoughts raced through his head. Each step caused his heart to thump harder against his chest.

"Now!" The boy shouted.

Skidding in the grass, Tepig stomped his feet. A cloud of dust surrounded him before he burst out, surrounded by flames.

Charging straight into the dragons stomach, the flames faded. Both Pokémon went stumbling down onto the grass.

"I think that's enough for now-" the boy spoke, stepping forward. "Tepig still has a way to go before flame charge is working properly."

"Maro Marowak." The skull-head Pokémon beside him added. "Wak Maro-wak."

"Y-your Pokémon..." he stuttered blinking in surprise. "Just now... they were saying..."

"Hold up-" the female trainer who also battle interjected. "Your saying you can understand Pokémon?"

"Not another one-" the boy growled, barely under his breath.

"Yes, they're talking." He nodded to her question before his face dropped. "Oh, then you two can't hear them either."

"I highly doubt your capable of understanding them," the boy muttered.

"Another none-believer-"

"Oh no, I know there are people who can understand them," he replied, "I've met one... and that's why I doubt you specifically. I believe it can be done."

"I've never met another who shares my gift," he replied, "I don't understand word for word but... it's more like I can feel their meaning through their emotions. How rude of me, my name is N. It's a pleasure to meet you both. And this here is Zorua."

A low bark chirped in, with a playful pounce towards the boy. He pulled out a rectangle grey device and scanned her with it.

"The Pokédex, eh?" he asked. "I suppose you're going to confine many, many Pokémon in Pokéballs for that, then."

"Don't tell me you brought that crap Plasma was spewing." The boy hissed, putting his dex away.

"I-I'm a trainer, too, but I can't help but wonder..." He sighed. "Are Pokémon really happy that way."

"You think if they weren't that a device like this could stop them?" he asked. "Any one of my team, should they choose, would have the potential to overpower me and destroy their Pokéball but they don't. You say they're trapped but I say they choose to follow a human."

"But why would they-"

"Pokémon have raw potential but humans can provide shelter and expertise in subjects they could only dream off," he replied, "the evolution rate between a wild and human trained Pokémon, while varying between species, is almost unanimously higher in the latter scenario."

"Te-Tepig!"

"How dare you!" He narrowed his eyes towards the boy. "You claim Pokémon are better off with humans when a human already hurt your Tepig."

"Excuse me?" he asked.

"I just heard him." He gestured down to the fire type. "He wishes to evolve to face that trainer. A promise you made to him."

"And?" he asked. "If that's what he wants then it just proves my point. People and Pokémon are better off together."

"Is it what he wants? he asked. "Or is it what you've convinced him, he wants?"

"We're on the same page-" he replied, "if it wasn't for me, then he would've died... cold and alone in some alley."

"And if not for humans to begin with, he'd live free and happy in the wild-" he replied, "you brought up the evolutions rates but isn't the truth that Pokémon only need to evolve for battles which humans force them into?"

"News flash, Pokémon fight in the wild all the time-" he replied, "humans didn't invent it."

"Just capitalise on it," he replied. "As long as Pokémon are confined in Pokéballs. Confined by humans. Pokémon will never become perfect beings."

"So, you're actually believing what the old man up there was blathering about?" he asked.

"I believe the truth which I've seen." He clarified. "I have to change the world for Pokémon, because they're my friends."

"And I need to stop you in that case-" he emphasised. "You're doing it for the truth you've seen? I'm doing it for the actual truth."

"What truth is that?" he asked.

"Humans aren't perfect but you can't punish everyone for the actions of a few-" he replied, "and everyone. People and Pokémon alike are better off together."

"I can see it in your eyes... your delusional enough to believe that is true." He sighed. "It's a shame. I wished we could've worked together on this."

"You just need to look at the Orre region." he explained, "centuries of war, both civil and international wiped-out Pokémon from their land. The region became a waste land. Nothing grows and the people are suffering every day. You remove Pokémon and not only do both side hurt but so does nature itself."

"Your lying!" He raised his voice. "Orre was destroyed by the wars waged not from the absence of Pokémon. Father would-"

"Father?" he cut him off. "I get it, Ghetsis."

"How d-did you-"

"A freudian slip is when you unintentionally reveal something in your speech... like calling your school teacher mum-" he replied, "in this case, it's easy to conclude that father you refer to as Ghetsis... I mean you share the same green hair which isn't common, and it'll explain your delusion to this cause."

"Don't insult my drive to protect Pokémon!" he stomped his foot down.

"I guess bringing up your father is a bit of a sore topic." A smirk flicked upon his lips. "Don't worry though, don't we all have arseholes for fathers?"

"He is not-"

"Denial-" he replied, "I remember when I was like that. He made himself seem bigger than the world, so I just assumed the issue was with me."

"You have no idea what you're talking about!" He slammed his foot down.

"I'm a study of human behaviour and I noticed similarities between us..." he replied, "your pretty quiet, my guess is to remain in the background. The thought that there is something wrong makes you reluctant to draw attention to yourself. You idealise his Plasma message, similar to how I set myself up with the same starter my own father used. The idea you could fix yourself by moulding yourself into them. The difference is, I'm in a place where I can admit my father's an abusive piece of shit and you... let me guess, he wears those big ceremonial robes to keep the beatings on his chest hid."

"Your just trying to change the subject because you know I'm right about-"

"Ooooh, I think I've struck a nerve." He smirked.

"Why are you doing this?" He growled.

"I've got a tender spot in my heart for cripples, bastards and broken things... I'm sure you fit at least one of those," he replied, "but your belief is so ingrained in your father's message that arguing it isn't going to get us anywhere. If I want to help you see the truth, I need to break that misguided belief you have."

"You think that you're going to drive a wedge between us right here?" he asked.

"No..." he replied, "but I'm planting seeds... and, of course, being antagonistic has caused you to respond defensively. The way in you answer has given me a lot of insight into you. Once you've accepted your flaws, no one can use them against you. Your response shows that it's still a sour spot. And given the lack of a proper denial, it limits the argument that I'm way off mark with the accusations. Like I said, I'm a study of human behaviour."

Clenching his fist, he felt his teeth grind down on each other. His face twitched with anger as he turned his feet and walked away.

Walking along the natural path, he couldn't help but notice the thicker faucet of trees laying out a clear path ahead. His eyes glanced to a sign, welcoming people to Accumula with a second one informing him the road to Striaton would be about a week's walk or three days on a bike... if he were going to ride on Rapidash or fly on Charizard, he's sure they could do it in two... without any breaks for training but given the battle club time, that's hardly a loss.

"Whoa, slow down. What's the rush anyway? Striaton isn't going anywhere."

He let out a groaned sigh as his companions voice echoed in his ear. Glancing down to the ground type by his side, he offered a shrug before turning back to the path ahead. Seconds later, the presence of the wild child to his side wasn't missed. Axew jumped down and ran ahead, Marowak following suit.

"We've already spent more time than I would've liked in this town-" he muttered, continuing to walk. "And travelling is slower than I would've like-"

"Because I can't keep up with a Rapidash?!" she asked with her hands on hips. "News flash, you chose to stick around for Plasma! I don't know what-"

"I think it's important to look your enemy right in the eye." He cut her off. "I wanted to see what sort of force I'm dealing with."

"And who decided it was your job to deal with them?" she asked.

"My dad made it perfectly clear growing up the responsibility I have." He sneered. "When you've got the capability to stop bad things and you don't, then someone gets hurt... they're hurt because of you. If I don't try to help with those Plasma hurt, I'm basically handing their Pokémon over."

"Oh, that makes sense now-"

"What does?" he asked.

"The reason you brought up abusive fathers with N," she replied, "you was just lashing out because of your own."

"I saw the similarities," he replied, "you wouldn't understand."

"Your right-" she replied, "I never knew my parents. In the village, every child is raised by the elder. We're raised as a community, not family."

"Consider yourself lucky." He kicked up his pace.

"Lucky?!" She raised her voice.

"Yeah, lucky-" He clarified. "Do you know what it's like waking up every day. Knowing your little brother can do whatever in hell he wants and if he gets hurt, it'll be somehow your fault? My dad made it increasingly clear that what I felt didn't matter. As long as he was fine... I hated him for that."

"I can't be that bad?" She rolled her eyes.

"Wanna bet?" he asked. "First time we go to the lab; he chases after a Growlithe. I get blamed for not giving him a more subdued Pokémon to start with. His now girlfriend arrived in town and her mum offered lessons on riding Rhyhorn. I tell him it's a bad idea, but he doesn't listen... who do you think gets the blame when he's thrown off and arm broken within the first lesson?"

"The mother with the Rhyhorn?" she asked.

"Try again... they didn't want to break up the friendship and hurt him-" He sighed. "It became my fault for not convincing him to not climb on the racer."

"Then came the time our dad made a rare visit home... he decided to run off so me and him could make up some sort of relationship-" He clenched his fist tight as tears stung his eyes. "He made sure to give me a speech about how I caused that and the importance of my brothers safety."

"That doesn't make everything your problem-" she uttered.

"Doesn't it?" he asked, giving a downward glance. "We need to make up time. We'll get more info about Plasma in the cities. That's where they're active."

"I can see why you decided to split off travelling from your brother-" she muttered. "He sounds like a-"

"I don't want to hate him... even if I know-" He tapped his forehead. "In here. That it wasn't his fault... he had as much control as I did... I can't stop-"

"Feeling helpless? Alone?" He turned to look at her with sore eyes. "Like I said... we were brought up as a community but unlike the other kids... I wasn't skilled in writing or with math. Academics might as well have been in another language."

"Why are you-"

"If your sharing then I might as well too." She shrugged. "I became the laughing stock at each lesson... then when play time came about, I-I couldn't exactly join them. I ended up spending most of time with the Pokémon in the local area... I-it's where I met... never mind."

Closing his eyes, he could only imagine she was about to bring up the less-than-secret second member of her team. Despite knowing she's keeping the secret; he never pushed her on it. Partly because he didn't care that much... this is the most real conversation they've had. Although he also knew the need to keep things internal... to sort them out yourself and not burden others. Keep it safe and never have to witness someone else would fail under the pressure.

"So, what's your plan?" she asked. "With Plasma... I mean."

"If I want to win this war and not just the battle then I need to play it smart." he explained, "clearly public image and their opinion matter to these protestors, so that's where I need to stick... if you don't want a part of this fight then I suggest you leave before being pulled in."

"A little late for that... I'm a trainer too so they'll come sooner or later-" she replied, "and you need all the help you can get."

"Thanks." He nodded. "These guys are dangerous... you heard N; he thinks he's doing the right thing. That makes them motivated."

"You're sure he's not, right?" she asked.

"They plan on overthrowing a system without a replacement ready to take its place-" he replied, "if they succeed... there will be a period where people will get hurt just because of the fallout. Every time someone tries to win a war before it starts then innocent people die."

"Every time?" she asked.

"Yes..." He nodded. "If no-one did it then no war would ever start... it only starts because one side decides to attack first."

"You said N is dangerous because he thinks he's right-" she replied, "but you-"

"-also think I'm right?" he sighed. "I know... and I'm just as dangerous... difference is, I know it. I can keep myself in check."

"How?" she asked but he just used his head to gesture to the two Pokémon.

"Because of him..." he replied, "when I think of everything, we've been through... I know we were meant to be trainer and Pokémon..."

Closing his eyes, he went over his conversation with N. As it played out, a single image resurfaced in his head, one of a red-haired individual from Johto. He couldn't help but think of the rocket slayer when talking with the green haired Plasma prince. They're both fighting a battle and inflicting their own sense of justice on the people around them. While they aren't leaving bodies in their wake... Plasma are causing just as much pain.

Splitting up friendships... taking Pokémon from their homes... corrupting the minds of those around and instigating a fights between neighbours.

He knew Silver genuinely believed in his mission... believed he was justified, and he showed just how dangerous a motivated man on a mission can be. He shook his head to clear them of the thoughts. He isn't able to focus on such things right now.

"So... you was talking about a plan." Iris drew his attention again. "You do have one... right?"

"Sort off-" he shrugged. "They clearly need the public on side... so we figure out what they actually want. Then get some evidence and reveal it on the one place they don't want the truth to get out... but we need to be smart about it. Keep the argument at the heart and they won't see the blindside coming."

"You've really thought about this," she replied.

"Not really," he shrugged. "I'm just a quick study. I've read a lot of history for the different regions. And every empire has something in common."

"And what's that?" she asked.

"They can all fall."

Zorua looked up to the green haired boy whose arms she currently occupied. His head was crooked to the side with a wrinkled nose and eyes staring off. She turned to see where he was looking but quickly realised it was an unfocused gaze. She let out a low sigh of her own before her hearing his voice in the wind.

"I don't get it-" He mumbled. "His Pokémon... the Tepig... He made it sound like he enjoyed the battling."

Her ears flopped to the side for a brief moment. Scurrying up his body, she pounced onto his shoulder and licked his cheek.

"Wh-wha-" He startled in a gasp.

With his attention, she jumped down and ran forward. It didn't take her long to notice another pair of trainers partaking in another battle.

Feeling the hairs on her body stand up and a familiar tingle rush through her body, she felt her tail swing back and forth. Jumping around to see the boy chasing after her, she let out a cheerful bark asking to partake in one themselves... maybe if he competes in one, he'll understand the enjoyment.

"They're still at it-" he muttered, stopping just behind her. An undeniable sadness in his tone. He picked her up and held her tight. "I... I know what you must be thinking right now-"

"That I want to battle?" she asked.

"-but we can't change the world over night." He sighed. "One day... One day you or any Pokémon won't need to do this for human entertainment b-but-"

Biting down on her cheek, she could only watch as he turned and walked towards the car which they arrived in. The man in robes stood with the door open, seeming to wait for them. It didn't take long for them to reach the vehicle and climb inside where she curled up into a ball. Her eyes drew heavy as the warm air blew over her fur, causing of soft purr to escape her lips. The voices of the two humans became white noise in the background.

The darkness surrounded her as she found herself alone in the unknown. Three pairs of red eyes shone up above her, the two side sets lacked the intensity as she felt the full attention from the creature. Her heart raced as she hesitantly stepped back, unable to tear her eyes away.

A three headed beast of darkness emerged from the shadows, hovering above her. Flames spewed out to the sides of the main, middled head.

Snapping at her, she felt her body crunched by the side head. Being tossed around. As she took blow after blow from the nightmare creature, the environment slowly revealed it as a castle grounds garden. A wall of fire formed around in a circle, trapping her with the would-be killer.

With a human shape in the background. She couldn't focus on them long enough for details, but his whispered voice sent shivers down her spine.

The horrid beast of darkness continued to assault her past the point of a fun battle... as a dark blue flaming ball came towards her, she shot up.

Back in the car, she had rugged breath as she looked around. Only her trainer and the old man in a robe were present. Trying to lower her heart rate, she swallowed hard and glanced outside one of the windows. No buildings could be seen, only an open field with multiple species of Pokémon.

"It seems the young Pokémon had a bad dream." The elderly man noted.

"Think it's about what happened to her?" N asked. "I mean... the trainer who abandoned her?"

"It's possible... but you're the one who understands these creatures, Master N," the sage replied, "why not ask her?"

"Right." He nodded, taking a deep breath before turning to look at her. "Is that right, Zorua?"

"Ye-yeah." She nodded, hesitantly. "After those guys in armor took me... they handed me over to the man with a dragon a-and-"

"It seems your intuition is correct, Master N." The elderly man smiled. "Seeing this just now has put my own worries at ease."

"Really Rood?" he asked.

"Dreams always appear bad when they come to put you on the right path," he replied, "it's my humble belief, that while what Zorua went through at the hands of her previous trainer was horrible. It can be a catalyst for both yourself and Plasma as a whole. It's like we're moving towards the end goal of our work."

"I hope so," N muttered, reaching over to stroke her head. "And then... when free to inhabit the world as they wish... I hope Zorua can leave her bad dream."

Enjoying the show of affection, she couldn't even bring herself to correct the slight misconception. It couldn't have been a few more minutes until the vehicle came to a stop. The elderly man got out first, holding the door open for them to follow onto the wide-open grassy field.

"Where are we?" N asked as his shadow covered her from the bright sun overhead.

"The humans refer to this as route three, but I prefer to think of it as home to all these lovely creatures-"

Her eyes widened at the husked whispered voice which came from behind. Turning around, she found the same man who just performed in Accumula hobbling towards them with a cane. The memories of her dream flashed before her eyes as the aching feeling covered her entire body. She shot behind N's legs.

"Father!" N greeted. "I-I'm sorry. This is Zorua... she just woke from a bad dream about her previous trainer."

"I've met her before... I had the privilege of seeing her when in your sisters care-" he explained, "it is a shame but that's the world we live in."

"It's not right!" He yelled slightly.

"I concur, boy, but don't forget your raising." A snide hiss escaped in the man's voice. "I assume your unaware of what brought you here?"

"Sage Rood said you wished to speak to me-" he replied, "if it's about the speech. It helps seeing what we're doing but are we really making a-"

"I'm afraid progress is slow and for as much as we'd like change, there are always those opposed to the idea-" The sage interjected.

"Rood is right..." The man nodded. "But if we could plant the seed for even one person, then it was worth it."

"There were trainers there still partaking in battles-" N mumbled. "One of them being the hero from Nuvema."

"If he cannot see the truth in our mission statement, then he is no hero," the man replied. "He could be dangerous to our cause but let me worry about him for now. Instead, I have something else I'd like you to do."

"What is it, father?" he asked.

"I wish for you to see more of this world." He instructed. "You've spent most of your life sheltered from the horrors. Since I started Plasma back in Galar, I wished to protect my children from the truths we fought against. Now, with our ascension on the horizon, I feel like it's important to change this."

"I-I don't understand-" N stuttered. "I'm happy I wasn't dragged into the propaganda the league-"

"You misunderstand me!" The man cut him off. "If your to be the hero that leads Plasma into a new world, then you must experience the horrors of this current world first hand. Which is why I humbly request you head down this path. Witness the wild Pokémon in their natural habitat but also the trainers in their city. See how much Pokémon suffer for humanity and then... and only then... you can lead us as the hero we all know you are."

"Fa-father..."

"Of course, you'll need to blend in. Which is why we introduced Zorua too you." He continued. "If trainers know your apart of Plasma, they'll treat you differently. Put on a show to try and weaken the truth we work towards. I'll also request Rood to remain nearby, should you need help."

"It'll be my honour," the sage replied.

"It feels wrong father," he replied, "hiding our cause. Blending in and using Zorua-"

"You don't need to partake in any battles or even use a Pokéball with her." He assured. "But a human without a Pokémon stands out."

"How long will this journey be for?" he asked.

"I don't know... Plasma still has moves to make before checkmate," he replied, "and I don't know what your journey, specifically, will have in store. Once you've seen the true evil in humanity and are ready to lead us... that's when we may end this journey and start the one of our true path."

"If you're sure it'll help, father." He nodded.

"If you follow the dirt path down this route, you should come to some signage to direct towards Nacrene city," Rood explained, "should it get dark out, I'll deliver appropriate accommodation to spend the night. Master Ghetsis had me prepare everything you'll need for the pilgrimage beforehand."

"Thank you." N bowed.

Without another word, they were gestured to head off out into the wide-open field. As she started running ahead, her feet stretched out to get far away from the old man and his beast of darkness. As the fresh air filled her lungs, she glanced around at the Pokémon. None were particularly close but flocks of Pidove filled the trees scattered around and Patrat's scurried over the ground in smaller packs. Herds of Blitzle and Zebstrika were off in the distance, roaming.

"I imagine this reminds you of home..." N's voice caused her to stop and look at him. "Or well, your original home. Before humans took you in."

She bite down on her inner cheek at the suggestion, glancing down to the floor. The only home she's ever known is one with people. Hatching in a day care, the people who run it had a son. They set out with her as his starter and were happy... he partook in battles but really only wanted to be a breeder to take over the day care one day. Then they ran into those knights and were separated. She'd love to meet him again one day, but she knows that's unlikely.

Her eyes widened as she replayed the events over in her head. It's clear she doesn't know what sort of man N's father is. She can feel his true self and just like Bobby before, he truly is a caring soul. Bouncing up and down, she tried to yell about the lies Ghetsis told. How he was the one who caused her injuries before they met. How he can't be trusted, and her previous trainer only protected her... but it was no use.

"I'm sorry about this... even if just pretend..." his voice whispered. "I don't like being a trainer any more than you enjoy having one. But I promise-"

She stopped in her tracks and glanced up. Her eyes unable to tear away as she felt her heart ache for him... she was hurt by the knights who took her and that beast of darkness, but she can feel it too. He's got an even greater pain inside... he's just directing it in the wrong direction.

"-I-I can't..." He continued into a stutter. "Sorry... maybe it was meeting that boy... maybe he got into my head... I know I was certain before but now."

Seeing his internal conflict brought a small smile to her face. Running over to him, she brushed her head against his leg, trying to convey the same affection which helped her through every sleep night. She considered retrying the conversation but decided against it. If she can sense his feelings so clear then maybe she can reverse the process... and even if not, he needs a partner to keep him safe and she's more than happy to fulfil that role.

"I think your right-" he sighed. "Father sensed the doubt the boy instilled in me. That's the true purpose of this journey. To convict me to the truths I know."

Biting down on her cheek, she followed his lead whilst sticking closer to his side. He wants to see the truth of humans and Pokémon... this is her chance to show him exactly that.

Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...