Author's Note: hey, everyone, how's it going, crazy here right now what with Flash Floods coming in and out and of course work is crazy. I've been trying to stay upbeat and working on the new chapter did destress me a bit so I wanted to post it now and hope you guys enjoy and also don't forget to review. Anyways read to your hearts content.
Also, please give me thoughts and feedback on how you feel about this whole story, Read and Review
Disclaimer: Blue Kitsune does not own Fairy Tail or Pokemon
The Impending Storm and Change Underfoot
The chaos within Bellflower Hospital was overwhelming. Emotions ran high in the waiting room, where anxious relatives and quiet onlookers gathered. The air felt heavy, saturated with the scent of disinfectant and the weight of worry. Doctors and nurses hurried through the turmoil, their footsteps resounding in the sterile corridors as they responded to a constant stream of emergencies. The steady beeping of heart monitors served as a reminder of the thin line between life and death.
Amidst the commotion, Delia's sole focus was her daughter. She followed the gurney carrying her child through the busy hallways, gripping her daughter's hand tightly, conveying both fear and resolve.
"We need to get her to the ICU immediately!" a nurse called out, stressing the urgency of the situation. Delia nodded, barely registering her own voice as she whispered encouragement to her daughter. "Stay strong, sweetie," she murmured, "I'm right here with you."
As they reached the ICU, Delia's world narrowed to each beat of her child's heart. With a final squeeze of her daughter's hand, a silent promise of unwavering support, she let go as the medical team took over. A nurse gently escorted Delia to the waiting area, where she collapsed into a hard plastic chair. Time stretched endlessly as she awaited news.
Minutes felt like hours as Delia replayed the events leading to their arrival. Others around her mirrored her anguish—some cried softly, some prayed, and some sat in stunned silence. A nearby family huddled together, comforting their young children while clinging to hope. Delia felt a connection with these strangers, united by their shared uncertainty and fear. Hours passed without updates. Exhaustion weighed heavily on Delia, but she fought it fiercely, determined to stay alert for any news about Ashi's condition.
Every sound was amplified—ringing phones, hurried footsteps, distant sirens signaling more emergencies. The lobby grew more crowded, with people sitting in hallways or leaning against walls. At last, a doctor approached, his steps tired but steady. Delia jumped up, searching his face for any indication of what was to come.
"Your daughter made it through surgery," he said gently. "It was a difficult process, but she's stable now."
Relief washed over Delia, nearly causing her to stumble as the tension dissipated. A nurse led her to Ashi's side in the recovery room.
Ashi lay beneath a pale blue blanket, half her face covered in gauze, evidence of extensive bandaging. Delia approached slowly, tears welling up as she saw her daughter breathing steadily—alive, but still fragile from her ordeal.
Delia gently brushed a strand of hair behind Ashi's ear, her tears flowing as she whispered words of love and gratitude. While relieved that Ashi had survived, a part of Delia's heart remained heavy with concern for her missing husband and Ashi's father, Ace. Troubling thoughts and memories of recent events flooded her mind, bringing with them the grim possibility of what might have happened to her beloved Dragonslayer.
Everything had unfolded as planned. Ace efficiently handled the checkout, ensuring their luggage was secure in the vehicle and confirming they were on schedule for their trip to the ferry and eventually Olivine City Airport. Stepping outside into the warm, tropical air, Ace joined his family, seeing Delia and Ashi already buckled up and waiting in the back seat. He slid into the passenger seat beside their driver, satisfied that their journey was progressing smoothly, anticipating an uneventful drive ahead. The car glided down the winding road, surrounded by morning traffic, heading towards the dock where their voyage home would begin.
This marked the bittersweet end of their idyllic vacation on the breathtaking island and signaled the start of their return to Kanto. Ashi spent the entire ride gazing out the window, absorbing every last detail of their surroundings before departure, a sense of melancholy washing over her as she contemplated leaving this paradise behind. Despite the fun they had, it was time to return to their normal lives.
Ashi frowned as she noticed the once clear blue sky had turned a foreboding gray. Heavy clouds hung low, threatening to unleash their burden at any moment, casting the landscape in a somber shadow that mirrored Ashi's feelings about leaving.
As they approached the harbor, the car suddenly screeched to a halt, jolting everyone inside. Ashi's seatbelt prevented her from lurching too much, but her heart pounded with fear as she glanced around nervously, trying to understand what had caused the abrupt stop. Mama reached over, placing a reassuring hand on Ashi's shoulder, silently conveying that everything would be okay.
"Hey, are you two alright back there?" Acnologia swiftly turned in his seat, his eyes scanning his family with concern before addressing the driver. The man's face was pale, his hands shaking slightly, a testament to their narrow escape from a vehicle that had seemingly materialized out of nowhere. Acnologia turned his attention back to the street, where a multi-car accident blocked their path. The scene was a chaotic tangle of mangled metal and broken glass, but something felt disturbingly amiss. Instead of waiting for Officer Jenny or arguing, people fled their vehicles, their faces etched with fear as they hurried away.
Ace wasn't the only one who noticed this strange behavior; Delia observed Pokémon darting away in frantic disarray, an unusual sight that unsettled her. "Ace?" she called softly, noticing her husband's narrowed eyes fixed ahead, his expression a complex mix of emotions. His Draconian instincts were fully alert, sensing a disturbing disturbance in the air.
The chaos consumed everything, with people and Pokémon scrambling desperately to escape the destruction ravaging the city. Screams and crashes filled the air, a nightmarish cacophony echoing off the buildings.
Amidst the bedlam, a large Tauros charged recklessly towards Ashi's side of the car. Acting on instinct, Delia pulled her daughter close just as the Pokémon slammed into the door, denting it deeply. Ashi would have been hit if not for her mother's quick reflexes. With her daughter safe in her arms, Delia watched in horror as more Pokémon stampeded past, driven by the primal urge to survive.
Ace knew they had to escape before being crushed or trampled by the frenzied beings around them. Suddenly, a deafening roar ripped through the air, causing everything to tremble. It spread across the island like a malevolent force, striking fear into all who heard it. Ace's heart raced as he recognized the sound, a primal fear gripping him.
Without hesitation, he unfastened his seatbelt and stepped out into the chaos, ready to face whatever danger lay ahead. Delia's screams were drowned out by the commotion as Ace ran towards the source of danger. "ACE!" she cried, but he disappeared into the panicked crowd, focused solely on the menacing energy pulsing through the air.
As he approached, some brave souls also tried to head in the same direction, but Ace knew they wouldn't stand a chance against what awaited them. He pushed forward with unwavering resolve, his footsteps echoing against the pavement as debris swirled around him. His mind raced with strategies and battle plans, readying himself for the inevitable confrontation ahead. The power he sensed was familiar, but it radiated a more malevolent aura than any he had faced before.
"Papa!" Ashi's voice trembled with fear as she tried to chase after her father, but Delia held her tightly, refusing to let her rush into the chaos erupting around them. The driver quickly shifted gears, attempting to steer them to safety, but another vehicle smashed into theirs with devastating force, sending them careening across the street and into a streetlamp. The impact crumpled their car's front end like paper, jarring everyone inside as they were tossed about. Delia shielded Ashi from the worst of the impact, protecting her as shattered glass rained down on them. Thanks to her mother's protective embrace, Ashi regained consciousness faster.
"Mom," Ashi whispered, seeing Delia lying beside her, unmoving, a dark bruise forming on her forehead. The driver slumped forward against an airbag, unconscious. Ashi could still hear her mother's heartbeat, indicating she was alive but knocked out. Panic gripped Ashi as she tugged at Delia's sleeve, tears streaming down her face. "Mama, wake up, please wake up!" she pleaded, her voice cracking. Delia remained still, her breathing shallow. Ashi knew she needed her father's help.
Suddenly, a piercing screech filled the air as a massive Pokémon ripped the car door off with brute force. "Are you okay?" a voice called out urgently as two figures rushed over, their faces etched with worry. Seeing Delia and the driver unconscious, they quickly worked to free them and carry them to safety. Ashi, ignoring their protests, wrenched herself free and bolted into the chaotic street, shouting hoarsely for her father. The scene was a blur of injured trainers and distressed Pokémon, but Ashi focused on the pulsing energy of her father's mana.
With an instinctive burst of magic, Ashi propelled herself toward the heart of the battlefield. The air crackled with tension, each step charging her with static electricity that made her hair stand on end. As she drew closer, the din of battle grew louder, a symphony of clashing energies and desperate cries. Ashi's heart pounded as she navigated the devastated battlefield, taking in the destruction and carnage surrounding her.
Ashi cautiously approached the epicenter of the chaos, each step bringing her closer to her destination. As she arrived, the sight before her left her breathless. There, towering seventy feet above the ground, was a colossal dragon of immense power and destruction. Its scales glinted in what little light remained, seeming to absorb all other sources of illumination into itself. And standing before it, facing off against the monstrous beast with unshakable determination, was Ashi's father and another trainer who had his Charizard at their sides. The Pokemon look to been put through the wringer but still standing as it glared back at the behemoth in front of them.
The ground trembled with each thunderous beat of the dragon's wings, its roar shaking the very earth beneath their feet. Its massive, scaly body lunged forward, its razor-sharp talons glinting in the sunlight as it prepared to strike. But Charizard, sleek and fiery, met the beast head on with incredible speed and agility. The air was filled with the sound of their battle cries and the clash of their powers, creating a dazzling display of light and sound that left Ashi in awe.
The trainer's voice rang out, guiding Charizard's every move and strategy as they engaged in an epic battle against the fearsome dragon. With each attack and dodge, Charizard's fiery form moved like a dancer, leaving trails of flames in its wake. But just when victory seemed within reach, disaster struck.
The dragon suddenly turned its attention towards the two humans below, its malevolent eyes gleaming with sinister intent. Ace, seeing the impending strike coming their direction, pushed the trainer out of harm's way but was still caught by the force of the swinging tail. He was sent flying into a nearby building with bone-crushing impact, leaving behind a trail of dust and debris.
"PAPA!" In a frantic rush to reach her injured father, Ashi ignored her own safety and pushed through the chaos around her. But before she could even reach him, she was stopped dead in her tracks by a large paw blocking her path - the imposing figure of the dragon standing between her and her father.
As their eyes locked onto each other, Ashi felt frozen in place by an overwhelming sense of terror. The dragon towered over her like a giant among ants, its presence seeming to warp reality itself. A primal fear washed over her as she gazed up at this fearsome creature.
But despite her paralyzed state, Ashi's mind screamed at her to run as the dragon closed in on her with menacing intent. In that moment, all she could do was stand frozen in fear, her heart racing in her chest.
Ace's guttural groans echoed through the rubble as he struggled to free himself from the debris. His dislocated arm throbbed with excruciating pain, a result of underestimating the strength of the dragon he was now facing. With desperation and determination, Ace popped his arm back into place, ignoring the sickening snap. "Dammit all to Hades!" he cursed himself for making such a crucial mistake. But there was no time to dwell on self-recrimination as his eyes frantically searched for the dragon, and saw to his growing horror his daughter there before it. A surge of panic coursed through him when he spotted the giant creature looming over Ashi, its piercing gaze fixated on her petite frame as its next meal.
"NO! NO! NO!" Ace's thoughts raced as his heart pounded in his chest. He couldn't comprehend why his daughter would be here in the midst of this chaotic battle. But that didn't stop him from acting on his primal instincts - protecting his daughter at all costs.
Pushing through the searing pain coursing through his body, Ace forced himself to move towards Ashi. With a burst of Dragon Force, he closed the distance between them and scooped her out of harm's way just as the dragon's talon came crashing down in their previous spot. But even as he successfully evaded one attack, another claw caught him from behind, leaving a deep, bleeding gash on his back.
Gritting his teeth and fighting through the agonizing pain, Ace refused to let it hinder him from protecting Ashi. He knew he had to keep moving and find a way to defeat the monstrous beast before it could harm anyone else. Ignoring the pain and with adrenaline pumping through his veins, Ace focused solely on getting Ashi to safety as they ran from the relentless pursuit of the dragon
A deafening roar erupted from the fire-breathing dragon, its powerful jaws opening wide to release a fierce burst of flames in Ace and Ashi's direction. Acting on instinct, Ace swiftly pulled his daughter behind a massive slab of concrete for cover. The intense heat enveloped them, causing sweat to trickle down their foreheads and their clothes to cling uncomfortably to their skin. Ashi's grip on her father's shirt tightened, fear evident in her widened eyes.
As they crouched low, the ferocious creature continued its assault, but their savior arrived in the form of the trainer's Charizard. With a mighty Fire Blast aimed right at the dragon's eye, the winged Pokemon diverted its attention away from the vulnerable duo, now fixated on avenging its injured eye.
Relief washed over Ace and Ashi as they saw the danger had passed, but before they could fully relax, they heard someone approaching. Reacting quickly, Ace pushed his daughter protectively behind him, only to find it was the same masked trainer who had helped them earlier. Though his features were hidden behind a mask and sunglasses, concern laced his voice as he came to their aid once again. "Are you two alright?" he asked.
Ace nodded weakly, feeling the pain from his previous injuries flare up as fresh blood seeped from his wounds. With assistance from his daughter and the trainer, he removed his jacket to inspect the severity of his gashes. They were deep and serious-looking, causing Ace to wince in discomfort. Ashi tore strips from her father's shirt while the trainer carefully wrapped them tightly around the wounds in an attempt to stop the bleeding.
Despite the ongoing battle behind them, all three turned to assess the situation. It was clear that Charizard was starting to tire out, but it refused to back down. Something needed to be done to ensure everyone's safety in this perilous situation. Ace knew that a diversion was necessary to draw the dragon's attention away from them while they made their escape.
"I'll stay here and keep it occupied long enough for you to get away," he declared, causing both Ashi and the trainer to protest vehemently. His daughter clung onto him tightly, refusing to leave his side. "No Papa anything but that!"
Before Ace could reassure her he'd be fine, the masked trainer stepped forward and offered to take on this dangerous task instead. "While your bravery is admirable, sir, I believe it would be best if I handle things from here," he assured them both with a hidden smile behind his mask and sunglasses. "I can deal with the dragon while you two make your escape."
His gaze shifted to Ashi, silently reassuring her before turning back to Ace. "I'll buy you enough time to get out of here safely with your daughter. You have my word that Charizard and I won't let you down."
Feeling grateful for their support and confidence in their abilities, Ace watched as the trainer approached his Pokemon before taking off running with Ashi by his side. Every step fueled by desperation as they escaped the treacherous scene.
The deafening echoes of the intense battle reverberated through the air, ricocheting off the broken buildings and rubble that littered the streets. Ashi and her father sprinted through the chaotic scene, dodging falling debris and flames as they put as much distance as possible between themselves and the trainer's voice barking out orders to his Pokemon. The stench of burning scales and sweat filled their lungs, making it hard to breathe. Despite her father's slowed pace due to his current state, Ashi stayed close by his side, refusing to leave him behind.
Finally coming to a stop, her father bent down to be at eye level with her, his expression inscrutable but filled with unshed tears. He placed his hands on her shoulders, forcing her to look directly into his eyes. "Ashi, I know this is going to be hard for you to hear, but you must do as your Papa tells you. You have to follow through."
She opened her mouth to protest, but was cut off by his urgent words. "I want you to keep running and don't look back, okay?"
Tears welled up in Ashi's eyes as she realized what he was asking of her. "But what about you, Papa? Are you—" Her words were cut short as he pulled her into a tight embrace, her head resting on his chest. She could hear the pounding of his heartbeat in her ear, a sound that brought both comfort and fear.
He held onto her tightly, using all of his remaining strength, offering reassurance despite what he was about to do. A Dragonslayer's love was strongest when protecting the ones they cherished, and nothing mattered more to him than his daughter and his mate wherever she may be at that moment. Delia, please, if you can hear me, know I will keep our child safe.
As he pulled back from the embrace, he pressed his grime-covered hand against the glowing markings on her cheek and wiped away the tears that streaked down her face. "Ashi, it will be okay. I promise I'll be fine, but Papa wants you to get as far away from here as possible." With a tight squeeze, she whispered into his ear to come back in one piece before turning to run as fast as her tiny legs could carry her, leaving her father behind.
Ace watched until the last glimpse of her disappeared from sight, his heart aching but his mind focused on the task at hand. The air was thick with the acrid scent of burning scales and sweat as he turned his attention back to the battle that raged on. The trainer's Charizard showed no signs of giving up despite the odds against it, unleashing fiery breath upon every challenge thrown at it by the colossal serpent. Ace couldn't help but admire the young man's determination and skill, but it was time to bring out the ultimate weapon.
Closing his eyes, Ace channeled his magic and felt a surge of energy course through his veins, like sparks of electricity igniting every nerve in his body. A burst of intense heat radiated from him as his body underwent a rapid transformation. His muscles bulged and stretched, doubling in size until he towered over everything else on the battlefield.
Jet black scales shimmered in the sunlight, reflecting the fiery determination that burned within him. Every inch of his skin was adorned with intricate markings that glowed with an ethereal blue light, giving off an otherworldly aura. His once human eyes were now piercing and pupil-less, blazing orbs of pure white fire. Atop his head sat four elongated plates that fanned backward like a jagged crown, adding to his imposing appearance. Rows of razor-sharp teeth lined his mouth, glinting ominously in the light. Jutting out from his chin was a sharp spike, ready to strike like a venomous snake at any moment. His colossal wings were sleek and powerful, built for speed and agility during flight. And his tail ended in a lethal point, poised to strike with deadly accuracy.
Acnologia's massive head swiveled sharply, the muscles in his neck bulging under the smooth, obsidian scales that covered him. With one powerful beat of his wings, he took to the sky - a blur of immense strength and might. Opening his jaws wide, he unleashed a deafening roar that shook the very ground they stood on. It was a sound of pure rage and dominance, announcing the arrival of an ancient and fearsome creature.
The air filled with the deafening roars of dragons as Ashi turned around to witness her father charging towards the massive ophidian. She couldn't help but stand in awe at the sight - her own father, transformed into a majestic and powerful dragon with wings that spanned far beyond her vision. He radiated authority and strength, commanding fear and respect with his mere presence.
Pride swelled in Ashi's heart as she watched the fierce battle unfold between two titans. She trusted in her father's abilities - after all, he was the sovereign ruler of all dragons.
Their collision was like a clash of gods, their colossal size and strength creating a maelstrom of wind and fire. Acnologia's flames engulfed the serpent, blackening its armored scales as they clashed with ferocious force. The very air crackled with raw energy as their claws and talons met in brutal strikes, sending shockwaves through the battlefield. The ground trembled under their immense weight as they circled each other, searching for any weakness to exploit. This was not a mere exchange of blows - it was a deadly dance between two apex predators.
But beyond their physical prowess, it became apparent that this was also a contest of wills. "IS THAT ALL YOU'VE GOT YOU OVERSIZED LIZARD?" Acnologia's voice boomed like thunder, cutting through the chaos around them. The monstrous dragon roared in response, fueled by its primal fury and mirroring Acnologia's unrelenting determination. With every strike and counter, it seemed as if these two creatures were locked in an eternal struggle for dominance over one another.
Their power seemed never-ending as they pushed each other to their limits. With a deafening bellow, Acnologia unleashed a powerful Dragon Roar, tearing through the scales of the opposing dragon with ferocious energy. The creature howled in pain, its dark flames failing to leave a mark on Acnologia.
The smell of burnt scales and blood hung heavy in the air, adding to the intensity of their battle. The sky was ablaze with sparks from their clashes, and Ashi could feel the heat radiating off of them even from her safe vantage point. But amidst all the chaos and destruction, one thing remained certain - this was a fight for dominance between two colossal creatures who refused to back down.
With an eruption of energy, Acnologia launched himself at his opponent once more, his wings beating furiously against the wind. Their clash echoed across the island like a symphony of destruction, resonating with power and force that defied description.
The serpent retaliated with a burst of dark flames that briefly engulfed Acnologia before dissipating harmlessly. But Acnologia was undeterred as he pressed on relentlessly, his attacks precise and unrelenting as he sought to overpower his foe.
Ashi was entranced by the unfolding spectacle before her. Her father's form blurred with lightning-fast movements, his powerful muscles flexing and pulsating as he unleashed an unparalleled ferocity upon their enemy. The air crackled with raw energy, a primal force that Ashi could feel coursing through her veins. In that moment, she understood the true essence of being a Dragonslayer - to harness and wield this incredible power.
The young girl, engrossed in the fierce battle, was oblivious to the looming peril. A slab of concrete broke free from a nearby structure, hurtling directly towards her. It was only when someone shouted, "Watch out!" and tackled her that she realized the danger, narrowly escaping the debris that crashed where she had stood seconds before. As the dust settled, Ashi found herself beside the familiar Charizard's trainer, his sunglasses gone, but his amber eyes filled with worry as he checked on her.
"Are you insane? What's wrong with you? Why are you still here?" He helped her up, his tone stern, having witnessed how close she had come to meeting Yveltal if he hadn't intervened. "Don't you understand that you could've been killed just standing there?"
"I-I was... I just..." Ashi stammered, still shaken from the near-death experience as she glanced at the nearby concrete rubble. She would have been crushed if not for the trainer's timely rescue. Before she could articulate her thoughts, the ground shook violently once more, and she nearly fell forward, saved by his strong arms around her waist. The two beings' power was making the surroundings tremble uncontrollably, making it far too dangerous to remain in their midst.
"We gotta get the hell outta here, like right this instance!" The young man wasted no time in releasing a Pokémon from its Pokeball, one perfectly suited for their current predicament. It had a sleek, triangular head with a pointed snout and angular horns. Its compact body was covered in navy blue scales, transitioning to a vibrant teal along its back and tail. Bright pink crests adorned its head, while its pale yellow underbelly sported three distinct pink chevrons. Four sharp horns protruded from its head, giving it an intimidating appearance. Thin, clawed limbs extended from its body, some tipped with a delicate shade of pink.
Ashi barely had a chance to process the Pokémon's stunning appearance before the trainer placed her on its back and joined her from behind. "Hold on tight, we need to get out of here!"
"But my Papa, he's—" Her words were cut short as they took off into the air, the trainer's arms providing a secure hold to prevent Ashi from falling during their ascent. As they flew away from the chaos and destruction below, Ashi stole a quick glance back at her father. She watched in horror as he sunk his serrated teeth into the dragon's shoulder, only for the beast to retaliate by tearing into his snout with its powerful talons. The metallic scent of blood filled the air and Ashi could see her father struggling to overcome his opponent, desperately trying to keep his promise to protect them all.
(Please Papa, don't break your promise to me...we need you more than ever...)
Ace swiftly dodged another attack from the dragon, his body still throbbing with pain from the earlier bite. Blood dripped from his muzzle, mixing with the warm liquid that had already coated his mouth from his enemy's wounds. But Ace refused to back down, knowing that failure was not an option when so many lives were at stake. He was willing to sacrifice everything to protect those he loved.
"COME ON, YOU SON OF A SALANDIT! GIVE ME YOUR BEST SHOT! MY DAUGHTER CAN HIT HARDER THAN YOU AND SHE'S ONLY EIGHT!" Ace taunted, provoking a furious snarl from the other dragon. Its sharp teeth glinted as it lunged towards him with deadly intent. But Ace was ready, summoning his magic once more and unleashing a powerful roar. The dragon tried to deflect the attack, but it was no match for Ace's strength. The blast hit its mark, sending the dragon flying backwards with smoke sizzling against its charred scales.
With a fierce battle cry, Ace lunged forward, his claws unsheathed and aimed directly at the dragon's vulnerable midriff. He dug them into the scaly flesh, feeling the hot blood spurting out from beneath his sharp nails. The dragon let out a deafening roar of pain, its massive wings thrashing wildly in an attempt to dislodge Ace. But he held on tight, determined to inflict as much damage as possible before this battle was over.
The dragon's fury was uncontainable as it swung its massive tail, propelling Ace through the air. It then unleashed a relentless barrage of lightning from its gaping jaws, targeting the other dragon in a heated retaliation. Ashi let out a panicked cry as she and the trainer were caught in the midst of the electrifying assault. The explosion of voltaic energy sent them flying backward, crashing to the ground with bone-rattling force.
Struggling to regain her bearings amidst the chaos of battle, Ashi felt an excruciating pain shoot through her body. Looking down in horror, she saw that she had been impaled just below her ribs. Her screams were drowned out by the roaring dragons and the deafening sounds of battle. She tried to use her magic for relief, but it was feeble against the overwhelming torment coursing through her veins. As if countless blades were tearing through her insides without mercy, Ashi could barely think straight as the pain consumed her.
Losing consciousness, time seemed to slow down for Ashi. The world blurred around her as she wondered if this was how it would all end – because of one moment of reckless stubbornness that led her to this broken state. Tears streamed down her face as she thought of her father, regretting not listening to his warnings and fleeing instead of staying behind to fight. "I'm sorry, Papa," she whispered, knowing that apologies were futile now.
Just when she thought all hope was lost and her body was growing numb from blood loss, strong hands reached for her and lifted her into their arms with a firm grip. For a brief moment, Ashi believed it was her father coming to save her. But then she recognized the scent of her trainer – the one who had once again risked his life to protect hers.
"Hang on, Ashi," he muttered under his breath as they ran far away from the intense battle between the two dragons. In the distance, Ashi could still see their enormous bodies and fierce confrontation, lit up by an intense glow as they summoned all of their powerful magic for one final attack. With deafening roars and blinding light, both dragons unleashed their full might upon each other. And in that moment, as she caught a brief glimpse of them disintegrating into bright particles, her heart shattered at the sight of her father's draconian form being consumed by the light.
Ashi's screams for her father were swallowed by the eerie stillness that followed. The suffocating darkness engulfed her, as if it was a living entity preying upon her fear and sorrow. She felt herself slipping into nothingness, consumed by overwhelming despair. The concept of time became hazy as she drifted in and out of consciousness, unable to fully grasp reality. Through the cacophony of voices surrounding her, she could vaguely make out the murmur of a thousand others who shared her fate.
Amidst the chaos, she grasped onto a familiar hand - her mother's gentle voice trying to break through the chaos, but ultimately drowned out by the frantic commotion. She tried to hold on as she was pulled away from her loved ones, but the grip weakened and she was taken elsewhere.
As she was wheeled into the sterile operating room, Ashi caught glimpses of doctors in surgical masks and gowns scrambling around her. Their urgent tones and swift movements conveyed the gravity of the situation as they carefully removed shrapnel from her body with precision. The constant beeping of monitors echoed through the room, creating a haunting soundtrack to this chaotic scene.
In moments of lucidity, Ashi struggled to speak, to ask for her father. But her voice was weak and thoughts jumbled in pain medication haze. The realization hit her that he might not be there, that he may never be again. Fear gripped her as she desperately fought against the sedatives being given to her, needing any information about her father's well-being.
As if sensing her distress, the machines monitoring her vital signs began making less noise, causing the doctors to react with urgency. The tension in the room thickened, setting everyone on edge. In this moment of chaos, all Ashi wanted was for her father to be there, holding her hand like he always did during difficult times. And as sleep once again claimed her, she wished for his presence to guide her through this nightmare.
When Ashi finally emerged from the endless slumber, she struggled to open her heavy eyelids and orient herself. The sterile walls and bright ceiling blinded her as she took in her surroundings. The sharp smell of antiseptic made her nose scrunch up in discomfort. It wasn't until she tried to move that she realized she was hooked up to an IV, with medication and fluids being fed into her arm. Pain shot through her side as she attempted to sit up, only to find a large bandage covering her abdomen. She also noticed that she could only see out of one eye, and when she reached up to touch her face, she felt bandages covering it too. The realization dawned upon her that her vision was distorted due to injuries sustained during the attack.
Feeling disoriented and panicked, Ashi scanned the hospital room for someone to talk to. She saw an older nurse enter with a cart of medical supplies and her heart raced with hope. The nurse's gentle eyes softened as she approached Ashi, who was still recovering from a mysterious incident.
"Please lie back down, dear. You need to rest," the nurse said calmly, placing a hand on Ashi's shoulder. "Where am I?" Ashi asked, struggling to remember the events leading up to her current state. Fragments of memories flashed through her mind, but everything else was hazy.
"You're at Bellflower Hospital. You were brought in with several others after the tragedy," the nurse explained sympathetically. She had been caring for Ashi and the other patients for days, witnessing their battle to survive.
Ashi's thoughts immediately turned to her father. "Is my Papa okay?" she asked anxiously, her worry for him consuming her. The nurse couldn't give a definite answer as they had been overwhelmed with patients and focused on saving lives. But she reassured Ashi that she would find out more information soon.
"I'm here if you need anything," the nurse said before leaving the room. Left frustrated and with unanswered questions, Ashi waited for the doctors to come. After a few minutes, the door burst open and her mother rushed in, tears streaming down her face at the sight of her daughter awake after three days of being unconscious.
Delia's heart pounded as she embraced her daughter, Ashi. The dark circles under Delia's eyes revealed sleepless nights spent waiting at her daughter's bedside. She couldn't shake the guilt of not being able to stop Ashi from running off, even though she was unconscious. The weight of worry for her husband, missing in the aftermath of a disaster, added to her exhaustion.
"Mama..." Ashi's gentle voice brought comfort as they held onto each other tightly. Eventually, they pulled apart and Delia lovingly touched Ashi's cheek. Her mind raced, regretting how she should never have let Ashi run off alone. But how could she explain to her daughter that they were still searching for any survivors, including her father? None of the patients or bodies matched his description yet. It was a small relief, but every passing hour felt like an eternity.
"Mama...where is Papa? Will he come visit later?" Ashi's hopeful question made Delia avoid eye contact, consumed by guilt and the fear of explaining the truth. "He...isn't here right now," Delia answered in a hushed tone, struggling to find the right words.
Panic rose within Ashi at the grave tone of her mother's voice. "Where is he?" she asked, struggling to sit up despite the pain in her body. Delia gently pushed her back down with a hand on her shoulder. Tears began to well up in Delia's eyes as she spoke in a trembling voice, "I'm sorry, baby...we can't find him."
The room seemed to spin around Ashi as she stared at her mother in disbelief. Her world shattered into a million pieces as she tried to process the news. The thought of never seeing her Papa again was too much to bear. Tears streamed down her face as she uttered a broken sob. All Delia could do was hold her daughter tightly, feeling the weight of her pain and heartache. She wished she could take it all away and bring back their world to the way it was before. Together, they wept for the man who had disappeared from their lives, leaving behind a void that seemed impossible to fill.
As Ashi clung to her mother, she felt lost and helpless without her Papa by her side. He had always been her protector, her rock, her entire world. And now, without him, she felt adrift in a sea of uncertainty. The pain in her heart seemed unbearable as she thought about the possibility of never seeing him again.
Ashi's week in the hospital felt like an eternity. Doctors constantly checked on her injuries and monitored her progress while Delia struggled to divide her time between visiting Ashi and anxiously waiting for updates from rescue teams searching for more survivors.
The bustling hospital was filled with injured patients and families desperately searching for their loved ones. But for the Ketchum family, there was no news of Ace. As each day passed without any sign of him, little Ashi seemed to become a shell of her former self. Despite her mother's attempts to get her to eat, the stress and worry had caused her to lose weight and her appetite.
But today was different. In just two days, Ashi would be discharged from the hospital and return home with her mother. The small family would never be the same without Papa there...
As tears welled up in Ashi's eyes, she tried to hold them back. Her mother reminded her not to touch the right side of her face where medicine was still applied, causing sensitivity and discomfort. The itchy bandages had been removed yesterday, revealing smaller fading scrapes but also a jagged scar in the shape of a lightning bolt running from brow to cheek. Meanwhile, behind closed doors, the doctor spoke to Delia about potential cosmetic surgery to remove the scar but stressed that their main focus should be on Ashi's overall recovery.
Delia watched as Ashi picked at her food, knowing how she must be feeling as she too had lost her appetite due to worry over her husband's fate. She didn't realize until later that evening that her period was late, chalking it up to the stress of their situation. Turning her attention from Ashi to other patients in the room, Delia spotted two officers talking with one of the doctors, pointing in their direction. A glimmer of hope sparked inside Delia as she thought they may have found something related to her husband's case.
"Honey, you stay here and finish your lunch. I'll be back in just a moment," Delia said with a reassuring smile before leaving the table to speak with the officers who were waiting for her. Their stern expressions hinted at serious matters that caused Ashi's heart to race with worry for her mother. Despite being told to stay put, Ashi couldn't resist following her mother down the corridor, careful to stay out of sight as they entered a private room with the authorities.
Ashi strained her ears to hear their conversation, feeling anxious and uncertain. She could make out her mother's voice, rising in both volume and pitch as she spoke with the officials about whatever issue had arisen. From what Ashi could gather, her mother seemed upset and was practically yelling at them.
As she eavesdropped from afar, Ashi's heart clenched with sorrow and fear. She heard the quiver in her mother's voice as she desperately tried to hold onto hope despite the grim news that was being delivered. "…I know this will be hard to take in but we have scoured every inch of the area and unfortunately, it seems highly likely that Mr. Ketchum is—"
"Don't say it!" Delia's anguished cry filled the room, refusing to accept the devastating truth that the authorities were delivering. Ashi's own heart shattered as she listened, feeling overwhelmed by emotions.
"My husband cannot be dead!" Delia pleaded, her voice shaking with desperation. The authorities exchanged a somber look, understanding the pain and denial that Delia was going through. But they had to deliver the news, painful as it may be. They explained how they had searched every nook and cranny with their skilled Pokémon partners, trained to detect human remains. And yet, even after all their efforts, they had come up empty-handed. The inevitable truth hung heavy in the air, waiting to be told.
"Ma'am we are truly sorry for your loss and we wish that we could have brought you closure. We understand that this is a difficult time for you and your daughter, and our thoughts are with you. We are open to discussing any further options, but given the circumstances, we believe it is unlikely that he is still alive."
Delia's heart shattered into a million pieces as she heard their words, a torrent of emotions overwhelming her. She had clung to the hope that her husband would be found, even as the days ticked by without any news. Now, the reality of his fate was tearing her apart. She wanted nothing more than to hold her husband one last time and tell him how much she loved him, but it seemed impossible.
Ashi overheard the conversation, her own heart aching as she saw her mother's world crumble around her. She wanted to run to her mother and console her, but she knew she couldn't. She didn't want to make the situation worse for her mother, who was already in so much pain.
Walking back to her table, Ashi tried her best to hold back her tears. She couldn't let herself fall apart just yet. Her father's disappearance had left her feeling lost and alone, but she had to be strong for her mother.
Delia couldn't bring herself to look at Ashi as she returned to the cafeteria before heading back to Ashi's room. They both knew that the conversation they had just witnessed would change their lives forever. The weight of uncertainty and grief hung heavy in the air as they both silently processed the harsh reality of their new truth.
As they returned to Kanto, a heavy, somber air surrounded Delia and Ashi. The news of Ace's disappearance had spread like wildfire to all their friends and acquaintances. It was impossible for them to escape the pitying stares of those around them. Delia refused to hold a funeral without solid proof of her husband's demise. She clung onto the hope that he was still alive, refusing to believe he was truly gone. Despite their grief, their community rallied around them, giving them space and support.
In the weeks following the tragedy, Delia struggled to maintain her daughter's morale. Sleepless nights were spent reminiscing about Ace, attempting to find meaning in the family's loss. But even as they grieved, they knew they had to stay strong for each other, especially with Delia's pregnancy.
The young mother's heart ached, but she refused to succumb to despair. She had to stay strong for both Ashi and the unborn baby, keeping their family afloat and working tirelessly until her maternity leave began. She focused on the future, not allowing herself to think about how her husband would never know they were expecting another child, or how their little one would never have the chance to meet their Papa.
Meanwhile, Ashi sought refuge in her room, surrounded by familiar comforts. She found solace in memories of her father and cuddled with her beloved Lulubell and Bale plushies. Two months had passed since his disappearance without any news. As the search team's optimism dwindled, so did Ashi's hope of ever seeing her father again.
Lying in bed one night, surrounded by the enveloping darkness and consumed by a deep sorrow, Ashi's eyes alighted upon a small box resting on her nightstand – her father's final gift. Slowly, she reached out with trembling hands to open it, revealing a pair of star-shaped stud earrings. The delicate silver frames encased gems that perfectly matched her own sparkling eyes. In that moment, she felt a pang of sadness and longing for her father, realizing he must have carefully chosen these as a special token for her newly pierced ears.
Tears streamed down Ashi's face, leaving wet trails on her flushed cheeks as she clutched onto the delicate earrings in her small hands. She held them close to her heart, the only tangible connection left to her absent father who had given them to her on her birthday.
Memories flooded back of happier times when life felt safe and complete with both parents by her side. But now, sitting alone in the darkness of her room, she couldn't help but feel a deep sense of loss and longing for the man who had played such a significant role in her life.
As she sat there, consumed by grief and memories, a faint sound broke through the silence. At first, Ashi couldn't be sure if it was real or merely a figment of her grief-stricken mind. But then she heard it again – her father's voice, filled with regret and a desperate plea for forgiveness.
"Ashi, my little dragon," he whispered. Her heart skipped a beat as she recognized his voice, feeling both comfort and pain at its sound. "Papa?" she called out tentatively into the darkness, half-expecting it to be nothing but an echo in her mind. Yet the warmth in his words made her believe he was truly there.
Filled with hope and longing, Ashi listened intently as her father's voice asked for forgiveness for his perceived shortcomings. She desperately wished to see him, to know where he was and why he had been taken from them so suddenly. But his presence remained elusive, just beyond reach.
"Papa, please come back home," she cried out in desperation, hoping he could hear her plea wherever he was.
His voice continued speaking, but now it was muffled and unclear. "I don't know what's happening, but someday, when the time is right...just..." Tears streamed down Ashi's face, her heart aching with a mix of longing and confusion. And then, as suddenly as it had come, the voice faded away, leaving her alone in the silence once more. The room felt emptier than ever before.
But Ashi held onto the earrings her father had given her, the small box feeling warm against her chest as she clung to it like a lifeline. It was a tangible reminder of his love and mysterious farewell.
"Papa, I need you now." Crying out into the empty space before her, she hoped against all odds to feel the comforting touch of her father's presence once more, but grasped only emptiness.
As Ashi sobbed uncontrollably, a soft glowing light seemed to envelop the room, casting a warm glow that whispered reassurance. She felt a gentle touch on her cheek, a fleeting caress that carried all the love and protection her father had always shown her. Leaning into it, she desperately longed to hold onto that connection. "No," she whispered through tears. "Come back, please..."
Delia's heart ached as she watched her daughter toss and turn in her sleep, tears welling up in her own eyes at the sight of her child's longing for their absent father. Approaching Ashi's bedside with gentle steps, she tenderly stroked her daughter's hair and whispered soothing words.
"Shh, my sweet girl. Daddy loves you very much, even though he's far away." Planting a loving kiss on Ashi's forehead, Delia hoped to ease the ache in both their hearts. With a heavy sigh, she tucked Ashi in snugly before quietly leaving the room, gazing at her peacefully sleeping child.
She knew the road ahead would be difficult, especially with her daughter still not over losing her Papa, but Delia had made up her mind. After much contemplation and consideration, she knew this was the best decision for their family. Ashi may not understand or agree with her mother's choice, but Delia believed it was necessary to start fresh and move forward, and hopefully with time can begin to mend and.
Delia hesitantly made her way downstairs to the living room, her pregnant belly leading the way. As she sat on the couch, she picked up the phone and dialed the number her boss had given her. She waited anxiously for someone to pick up on the other end, her heart pounding in her chest.
"Hello Professor," she said when he answered. "I know it's late, but I was wondering if the position is still open? I've thought it through and I've decided to take you up on your offer."
With trembling hands, Delia placed the receiver back on its cradle and let out a deep sigh before collapsing onto the couch. As she cradled her baby bump, thoughts of the future flooded her mind. She knew that raising two children on her own would be a daunting task, but she was determined to do what was best for them. Her fingers traced the smooth curve of her belly, but her eyes momentarily lingering over the wedding band on her finger. A bittersweet smile crossed her face as she remembered the man who had given it to her.
The sadness hit her like a tidal wave, crashing over her with force. Tears filled her eyes as she whispered to the emptiness of the room, longing for the warmth and comfort of her beloved's embrace. She knew she had to be strong for their family, wiping away her tears and taking a deep breath. But the ache in her heart was almost unbearable, knowing he would never return. She couldn't imagine moving on or remarrying, his memory forever holding a special place in her heart. No one could ever match the uniqueness and deep connection they shared. Even as time passed and others tried to fill the void, she remained loyal to him, her love unbreakable and irreplaceable. He was her Dragon, always and forever.
(Acnologia, my love for you will never waver and I hope you know that wherever you are I will raise both Ashi and our baby with all the love they deserved and keep your memories alive with them.)
As if in response to her thoughts, a warm breeze caressed her cheek, carrying with it a familiar scent that could only belong to Ace. In that moment, she could almost feel his lips on her skin and hear his voice whispering in her ear those four words she longed to hear. Always and forever, Lia.
As his words echoed in her mind, Delia felt a stirring deep within her. Though he was no longer physically present, she believed that his spirit would always watch over their family. She vowed to both him and herself that she would do everything in her power to ensure their children's happiness, even if it meant facing this journey alone. Her love for her Dragonslayer would fuel her on, along with the cherished memories they had shared and see they strive towards a future that had their children becoming strong and fierce like their sire would've wanted.
Author Note: Yeah I know a lot of you must be shocked by this turn of events but there is a method to my madness and I felt that Ashi and her sibling will need to grow and sure that their adventures will be one of epic porportions so I hope you will keep tabs and comments will be always welcome so please review and let me hear your thoughts