Pokémon Ash the legendary Rainbow Hero

by Star-Eyes Pendulum Dragon

After his battle with Ho-Oh, Ash thought that he was done being the Rainbow Hero, but fate has other plans. A year after his battle against Ho-Oh, Ash learns what it truly means to be a Rainbow Hero. He will accomplish his dream and be the Legendary Hero with his best friends, Pikachu, Latios, Latias, Verity and Sorrel with him as Ash becomes the Legendary Rainbow Hero Master.

29. Chapter 29

Hey everyone, the next chapter is here. I hope you all enjoyed last chapter greatly, and am sorry it took so long. I meant to update this last month, but things were a bit busy. Anyway, this one is gonna be different from cannon, but a bit funny for the gang, and troublesome for Team Rocket. As for why, you're gonna see soon. But first; time for some reviews answered.

Juan Pablo: My apologies for getting your name wrong. I'll let AshXChloe happen, but not AshXFlannery.

Areyem Meyera: Like I said in my message I sent to you; it's a bad habit that I've had since I started doing fanfiction. I'm working on getting rid of it.

Guest: Thanks, I guess.

Kkkill: I don't know if you're the same guy that's been bad mouthing me or not, but all I have to say is this. Piss off! I'm free to do any story of mine I like, and if you don't like it, then get lost!

fanfic meister: Deino, huh? I guess that'll work. This chapter won't be like in cannon, but enjoy it.

Pokemon fan: I'll do my best.

thor94: Glad to hear you like it. I just figured Miraidon suited Ash due to it being part Electric.

DragonicFireLord: I don't recall making a choice for which Paldea starter Ash should get, but your vote for Chloe to stay with Go has been memorized.

Ts22: The side story is gonna be a bit challenging, but I'll do my best.

Tony Anderson: Okay, I'll keep it in mind.

Now that all that's done, let's get this chapter started. Enjoy it, it's a bit funny.

---

Chapter 29: Family drama.

The sky was a clear blue colour for today without a single cloud in sight for the Kanto Region's Pallet Town. The small town's residents all began to wake up from their slumbers, full of energy to start another day. Even a Dodrio stood atop a random house and let out a loud morning cry.

At a familiar house that belonged to the Rainbow Hero; Delia Ketchum stood in the kitchen, smiling a wild smile as she started getting breakfast ready. The mother of the Rainbow Hero was incredibly happy for a good few reasons, but two of them were most important to her.

She got to see her son again much sooner than she expected, and he finally got to meet his new little sister. Delia had been so excited for the day that Ash would meet Azora, and while it was a surprise for it to happen sooner than she expected, it wasn't unwelcomed. Plus, she finally got to meet Verity and Sorrel face to face after 2 years of seeing them through a telephone call.

It was nice meeting May and Max as well since she's heard a bit about those two. Professor Oak has shared Ash's adventures in Hoenn with them, including that incident with the Millennium Comet. She was reasonably worried at hearing her son fight a monster, but felt relief and joy at how it ended. Delia knew Ash would get involved in a great number of incidents since he's the Rainbow Hero yet had full confidence he'll be fine.

Last night; the gang stayed over for Ash to bond with his new little sister. The house wasn't full enough for everyone to stay inside, so Brock, Sorrel, Max, Lucario and Jirachi camped outside and let everyone else have the inside. Verity, Piplup and May slept on the couches in the living room and finally, Ash, Pikachu, Azora and Sylvia slept together in Ash's old room.

The new pair of siblings had gotten incredible close yesterday's afternoon and even feel asleep together in Ash's room as he was telling her much about his adventures. Pikachu and Sylvia started off roughly since the Fairy type was a bit on guard at first, but soon relaxed around the Electric Mouse. Still, Azora and Sylvia were a bit nervous around Ash's friends and companions, but it was honestly expected after what she's gone through. Delia can only hope that one day; her new daughter is free of her fear of humans.

The mother was snapped out of her thoughts at the sounds of the house's front door opening. She looked over to see Sorrel, Brock, Max, Lucario and Jirachi coming inside with the Veilstone boy leading the way. "Oh, good morning boys". Delia greeted them all with a motherly smile and a wave of her right hand. "Good morning to you as well, Mrs. Ketchum". Sorrel greeted his sworn brother's mother, giving a small smile back.

Max and Jirachi looked over to the couches, but didn't see Verity, May or Piplup there. "Where's my sister and Verity? Did they go somewhere?" The youngest Maple boy asked, turning his gaze over to Delia as he spoke. "No, they just went upstairs to wash themselves". Delia answered, returning her gaze back to the task of making breakfast for everyone.

"I'll help with making breakfast. It's the least that I can do to help around the house". Brock remarked, walking over to the kitchen to help Delia make breakfast for everybody. Max and Jirachi went over to sit down on one of the couches together, before the 8-year-old boy brought out his Rotom Phone and started going through it. Sorrel and Lucario stood beside one another in the hall, watching everyone else.

Just then; footsteps from above caught their attention. Sorrel and Lucario looked up to see Ash, Azora, Pikachu and Sylvia right at the staircase with both humans dressed in their outfits from yesterday. Azora gave a startled gasp at seeing Sorrel looking at them, before she hid behind Ash. The Rainbow Hero and his sworn brother both frowned in sadness for the girl, seeing she still had a long way to go before moving on from her past.

Ash turned his gaze over to Sorrel and gave him a friendly grin. "Good morning Sorrel". The raven-haired boy greeted his old friend as he began walking down the staircase, Azora keeping up to stay right behind him with their Pokémon partners following them. "Morning Ash". Sorrel greeted back just as Ash, Azora, Pikachu and Sylvia reached the staircase's end.

Pikachu walked up to Lucario with the two friends gazing at each other's faces. "Pikachu pika". The Electric Mouse greeted, giving a small wave with his right hand. Lucario gave the Electric type a soft growl in response, before turning its gaze over to Sylvia. The Fairy type was standing close by to its trainer in a protective manner. Sylvia took notice of Lucario's gaze and growled at him in a threatening manner.

Lucario narrowed his eyes down at the Fairy type Pokémon. He could understand Azora's fear towards other humans, but didn't get why Azora seemed so cautious around others and so protective around Azora. Just as the Aura Pokémon opened his mouth to ask Sylvia for her caution, someone else spoke up from above. "Ahhh! There's nothing more relaxing than a nice shower in the morning..." A familiar voice said in bliss from upstairs.

Ash, Sorrel, Azora and their Pokémon turned their gazes to upstairs, just in time to see Verity, May and Piplup walk into view with the two girls fully dressed and looking refreshed. The one that just spoke was May, who had a massive smile on her face as she stretched her right arm in the air, while Verity just gave a chuckle at the Petalburg girl.

"I can't really argue with you on that. I always enjoy the feeling of water whenever I'm swimming or taking a shower. I guess it's just one of the perks of being a trainer that started with a Water type". The tomboyish girl said with a grin, looking over to her beloved starter Pokémon. "Piplup pip piplup". Piplup said with a wide smile, raising both flippers into the air.

The three looked downstairs and saw Ash, Sorrel, Azora, Pikachu, Lucario and Sylvia. At seeing their gazes on her, Azora hid further behind Ash all the while with a fearful face. "Morning girls. Did you get a good night's sleep?" Ash asked with a curious voice, giving a small wave with his right hand. "We got one, alright. The beds in this house are so comfy, I wouldn't mind living here from now on". Verity joked with a grin; her, May and Piplup walking down the staircase to join their traveling companions.

Ash and Sorrel chuckled at their old friend's joke, while Piplup went over to join Pikachu and Lucario. "Everyone; breakfast is ready!" Delia cried out from the kitchen, catching everyone's attention. Ash gave a grin, before looking over to his sworn brother first, then to his girlfriends. "You guys are in for a treat. My mum's cooking is out of this world". The Rainbow Hero told them with an eager tone. "Pikachu pi!" Pikachu remarked with a nod, wholeheartedly agreeing with his best friend's words.

Even Azora and Sylvia nodded as well. They've eaten Delia's cooking for a good few weeks now, and even they admit that it is delicious. "Well, I for one am more than starving!" May exclaimed without shame, throwing both thrusts up into the air in a joyful manner. May's words caused Azora to grow a very small, amused smile since it was a bit funny to the 8-year-old girl.

And with that; they all went and eat breakfast with Delia, Brock, Max, Mr. Mime and Jirachi with everyone enjoying such a nice morning.

(Opening: Pokémon Journeys opening: 1, 2, 3, version 2)

With a green background, three mirrors appeared, one vertical with a rainbow background, the second with a blue background and the third had a green. All three mirrors were showing three familiar pairs of legs of three certain trainers. These windows then closed before opening again, this time showing Ash, Verity and Sorrel all running with eager looks. Ash was running forward, Verity was running right and Sorrel left. The mirrors all closed and disappeared to reveal the title "Pokémon Legend of the Rainbow Hero" in colorless letters, before the Rainbow Wing fell past it, changing the letters all into a rainbow color.

'Hey, you still not ready? C'mon, hurry up!'

The three old friends were standing in a triangle position with their backs towards each other with different coloured grounds below them. Ash's ground was a rainbow colour, Verity's an electric blue and Sorrel's a green color. Ash put his cap on his head with a grin, before adjusting his backpack. Pikachu and Espeon then appeared, jumping onto his shoulders, much to the Rainbow Hero's joy.

'You all packed and ready to leave?'

Verity knelt down for a moment, before she stood up to reveal that she was holding Piplup in her arms with the two partners smiling happily at one another.

Sorrel and Lucario were standing right besides each other with the two looking through Sorrel's notebook that he was holding with his right hand. The two partners looked at each other and smiled.

'I'll show you this wide mysterious world'

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Espeon, Piplup and Lucario were all gathered together, talking to one another happily. It changed to show Sorrel adjusting his right shoe with Lucario stretching his paws out next to his trainer, while Verity had her arms wrapped around her boyfriend's right hand as she gave him a peck on the cheek, resulting in Ash's face turning flushed with Pikachu, Espeon and Piplup laughing in front of them. It then changed to show Ash and Sorrel standing in front of one another, giving a fist up to each other, before Verity appeared from below and wrapped her arms around her two old friends' shoulders, bringing them into a group hug with her eyes closed happily and the two males smiling.

'And skip the slow send-off'.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel then ran out of a Pokémon Center into the outside world. Inside the Pokémon Center, Brock watched them ran out from a bench next to a window, Max and Jirachi were playing together, before they turned to look out the door. May was handing in her Poké Balls to Nurse Joy, before she turned around and gave a warm smile.

'Be it through fire or through water'.

'I'm fumbling blindly through the days'.

'When I don't even know what the next second will bring'.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel were all standing in front of a computer screen as it showed pictures of the legendary trio of Kanto, Moltres, Zapdos and Articuno in three separate pictures with the background showing a map of the Kanto Region. The screen then changed to show Lugia and Ho-Oh in two separate pictures with the background showing a map of the Johto Region.

The computer screen changed to show three separate pictures of Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza with a map of the Hoenn Region as the background. The screen changed to show a single picture of Dialga, Palkia and Giratina together with a map of the Sinnoh Region as the background. It changed once more to show a single picture of Zekrom and Reshiram flying around each other with Kyurem in the center with a map of the Unova Region as the background.

The computer screen changed to show two separate pictures of Xerneas and Yveltal with a map of the Kalos Region as the background. The screen then changed once more to show two separate pictures of Solgaleo and Lunala with a map of the Alola Region as the background. It changed to show a single picture of Zacian (Crowned Sword) and Zamazenta (Crowned Shield) in front of their shrine in the Slumbering Weald. Finally, changed to show Miraidon and Koraidon with a map of Paldea as the background.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel were looking over a folding map, before Ash turned excitedly to Sorrel and said something to him, getting him and Verity to turn their attention to him with the Pokémon Coordinator telling her boyfriend something. Pikachu, Espeon, Piplup and Lucario all sat down besides one another and snacked on some cookies gathered around their trainers.

'Each and everyone one of my memories'.

Ash's left rainbow colored eye showed the brightly flashing Rainbow Wing, before the screen zoomed out to show the Rainbow Hero in his transformed state, falling towards a bright light when Ho-Oh came by and flew around with the camera spinning around as well. Ho-Oh flew off as Ash did a flip and pulled out a Master Ball with his left hand. It gleamed with psychic energy, before it burst open with a white beam coming out.

'Can always be found inside a Ball'.

The white beam cleared to reveal Latios flying in the sky with Marshadow on his back, before Latias joined him from the right, now flying besides her brother with the sky above them filled with dark clouds. The two Eon Dragons then flew faster and out of view

A Poké Ball hit the ground and rolled over to Ash's feet. The camera changed to the inside of it with a round shadow showing the outside with the red top transparent. Ash, Verity and Sorrel gazed at the Poké Ball in wonder, before the Twinleaf turned to look at her old friends. The three stepped back as the device opened with a blue light filling the screen.

'On 1, 2, 3, dive in!'

A spotlight shined down on Ash as he thrust his right hand out with a grin, before all his Pokémon charged ahead with spotlights on all of them as well. Pikachu, Espeon, Torkoal, Venusaur, Blastoise, Grovyle, Raikou, Walking Wake, Zoroark, Snorlax, Timburr, Deino, Sableye, Corphish, Meganium, Tauros, Kingler, Muk, Typhlosion, Nidoking, Gallade, Kabutops, Skrelp, Rapidash, Gengar, Primeape, Hitmonlee, Ampharos, Ursaring, Donphan, Feraligatr, Tyranitar and Trevenant all charged on ahead on the ground, while Latios, Latias, Miraidon Ultimate Mode, Charizard, Taillow, Pidgeot, Heracross, Scizor, Lapras, Flygon, Dragonite, Magnezone, Skarmory and Noctowl flew above them with Marshadow riding on Latios' back and Lapras floating thanks to Espeon's Psychic attack.

Pikachu suddenly sparkled with electric, before he leaped and fired Thunderbolt at Sorrel's Aerodactyl, who dodged it by flying by.

'I've got the future plans I imagined in my pocket'.

Verity's Milotic came out of nowhere with a spotlight on her and fired a Mud Shot attack at Sorrel's Lairon, striking the Rock and Iron type and sending it sliding across the ground past Sorrel, who cried out in surprise. From the side jumped in Lucario with his paws together with an Aura Sphere in between them, getting Sorrel to smile as his Aura Pokémon fired the Aura Sphere, causing the camera to turn around to show Verity standing behind her Milotic, having wide eyes as the blue sphere grew closer.

The screen changed to show Team Rocket all together in the forest with Jessie standing to the right, James to the left and Meowth in the middle. Then from the sides, their Pokémon came out and stood behind them. Jessie had her Seviper, Dustox, Wobbuffet, Trubbish and Gothorita gathered behind her, while James had Cacturne, Axew, Steelix and Parasect behind him.

The three gave confident looks, before the two humans brought out Poké Balls and threw them forward as their Pokémon cheered, before the devices burst open to reveal bright white lights.

'Greeting someone new is always fresh'.

Ash stared up at the sky in amazement as Mega Latios faced off against Primal Kyogre in the air above with it raining heavily around them. Latios charged up a Luster Purge, before he fired it at Kyogre, who narrowed its eyes at the approaching attack.

'No need to hesitate! Try!'

Atop a grassy hill with the sky covered in dark clouds, Verity's Lopunny and Sorrel's Poliwrath stood 10 feet away from each other, before they charged in and began sparking in hand-to-hand combat with neither of them having the advantage.

Ash, Pikachu, Espeon, Latias, Zoroark, Donphan, Corphish and Dragonite all jumped up and cheered with a rainbow background. Verity, Piplup, Furret, Glameow, Vaporeon, Tangrowth, Kingdra and Lopunny all jumped up and cheered with a blue background. Finally, Sorrel, Lucario, Luxray, Accelgor, Lairon, Victreebel and Poliwrath all cheered with a green background.

'Let's have a fight!'

Atop the Sky Pillar, Ash, Verity and Sorrel all stood side by side with Pikachu riding on his trainer's right shoulder as Mega Sceptile, Mega Houndoom and Mega Gardevoir in front of them, all facing up at the sky where a shiny Mega Rayquaza was roaring down at them.

'1: Once the battle is done'.

The Hoenn Region champion Steven and his Mega shiny Metagross appeared with a silver background. The screen changed to show a stadium, where Steven waved his left hand out, giving a commanded as Mega Metagross unleashed a Flash Cannon attack. The camera shifted to show a Dragonite counter the Flash Cannon with a Hyper Beam attack with Lance standing behind the Dragon and Flying Type, having an excited grin planted on his face.

'2: And we're laughing or crying'.

The Johto Region champion Lance and his Dragonite appeared with a dark blue background. The screen then changed to various photos, the first showing Ash holding up the Johto League Silver Conference trophy in his hands, the second showing Verity holding up the Slateport Pokémon Contest Ribbon in her right hand, the third revealing Sorrel researching a set of ruins with his back turned to the camera.

The fourth photo showed all three friends and their partner Pokémon all together. Verity was in the middle, having a wide smile on her face with her eyes closed with her right hand wrapped around Sorrel's shoulders and left hand around Ash's shoulders, bringing the two smiling males into a group hug. Piplup, Pikachu and Lucario were all in front of their trainers in the photo, smiling wildly at the camera. The final photo showed them all leaning in towards the camera with happy faces.

'On 3, let's be friends!'

The screen changed to show Professor Oak, Tracey, Misty, Delia, Azora and Sylvia all together in Professor Oak's backyard with Azora holding her Pokémon in her arms. Professor Oak and Tracey smiled at each other; Misty winked at the camera and gave the peace sign with her left hand. Delia placed her hands down on Azora's shoulders and smiled down at her, getting Azora and Sylvia both to smile up at her.

The screen changed to show Forina with the sky black and various nocturnal Pokémon about, before Jirachi flew through his homeland, leaving a sparkling trail. A wild Ludicolo jumped into view in a forest, surrounded by several confused Marshtomps, before they all began dancing.

'Any day and every day, that's always been my rule'.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Piplup and Lucario stood on a cliff overlooking a city next to a tree with a blue sky filled with clouds. Time began changing as the sky changed to reveal a clearer blue one, then an orange sky as the sun began to set and then a beautiful night sky filled with stars.

The screen changed to show the Raizen Mountains, then to Mount Tensei, right where Ash battled Ho-Oh so long ago.

'With this unpredictable, boundless world awaiting'.

In the Petalburg City Gym, Norman opened his determined filled eyes, before the camera zoomed out to show that he was in the Petalburg Gym's battlefield with his Slaking in front of him. Norman crossed his arms, while Slaking roared as it began pounding its chest like a gorilla.

The screen changed to show Ash kneeling down, before he got up on his feet and walked into an opening surrounded by a white light with Pikachu by his right side.

'Let's go! Every time you trip and fall'.

With a yellow background, Pikachu's ears perked, before both he looked up at Ash as he walked forward with a wild smile that grew wilder as he looked down at Pikachu with a rainbow background. With an icy blue background, Piplup cried out as she looked up.

'Let's go! You pick yourself up by my side'.

With a blue background, Verity walked forward with a grin, before it grew as she looked down at her partner. With a silver background, Lucario's ears perked, before turned his head right to look at Sorrel as he walked forward, before he turned to look at his trusted partner with a green background.

Three mirrors appeared and showed the three old friends in separate mirrors with their Pokémon team. Sorrel was in the left mirror with his Lucario, Shelgon, Aerodactyl, Regirock, Lairon and Skorupi around him, facing their direction with a green background. On the right mirror, Verity stood with her Piplup, Gible, shiny Togepi, shiny Beautifly, Furret and Tangrowth besides her as they faced right with a blue background.

In the middle mirror in between the three was Ash with Pikachu, Grovyle, Torkoal, Tailow, Corphish, Deino and Miraidon all facing forward with a rainbow background.

'I choose you'.

Sorrel lifted his left hand, Verity raised her right hand and Ash held up both of his hands, before all three friends hi-fived each other.

---

Very much after breakfast; the whole gang packed up and was ready to head to Professor Oak's lap, pick up their Pokémon and resume their journey in Hoenn. Right now; Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Azora, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario, Jirachi and Sylvia all stood in front of Delia and Mr. Mime right outside the Ketchum household. Azora and Sylvia both decided to go with the gang to visit Professor Oak's lab and the Pokémon living there, and the gang didn't have a problem spending a bit more time with them.

"Well mom, we're off". Ash stated with a soft smile, feeling very energize and ready to resume his journey. "Stay safe out there, sweety. And remember to..." Delia began, only for the Rainbow Hero to interrupt with an anime red face and white eyes. "I KNOW, I KNOW! JUST DON'T SAY IT!" The raven-haired boy screamed out in embarrassment, getting a laugh out of everyone at his reaction just now.

Delia turned her gaze over to Ash's traveling companions and took a moment to stare at them. Verity and Sorrel were the ones she learned about first, but hasn't gotten much time to learn about. Last night gave her a chance to bond with them and see why her son cared for them so much. Why Ash became sworn brothers with Sorrel, and chose Verity as his love. She was so happy for Ash for meeting these two wonderful people.

Brock's the one she knows the best since she's met him and Misty the most out of Ash's companions he traveled with, not to mention he stayed over after that..."incident" with Professor Ivy. He may be determined to find love, but is still a good person overall and Delia's happy he's looking after Ash in her travels.

May and Max were Ash's newest friends, so Delia didn't know much about them, but she's learned they're great people. Delia found out May's in love with her son, and Max idolizes Ash. It made Delia happy that her son's made so many friends that care about him and hopes they continue to stand by each other's side.

"It was really nice to meet you, Mrs. Ketchum, and thanks for the yummy breakfast. I hope we see each other again real soon". May said to Ash's mom with a grateful smile, truly happy that she was given this chance to meet Delia. "You and everyone else is welcome here anytime, May". Delia told the young brunette, before turning her gaze over to Verity, Sorrel, Brock, Lucario and Piplup.

"Verity, Sorrel and Brock, please watch over Ash in your travels". She pleaded to the three, unable to keep herself from worrying about Ash despite his 2 years of experience. "We will, don't worry about it". Verity replied with a wink of her right eye. "Piplup". Piplup said from her spot beside Verity on the right. "And I'll make sure to keep Ash's appetite healthy. Plus I got someone else to help with that". Brock said with a grin, turning to look at Sorrel as he said that.

The Veilstone boy chuckled at his friend, raising no objection since he wasn't wrong. Delia turned her gaze over to Azora, before gently getting down on her knees and placed both hands on Azora's shoulders. "Sweety, be good at Professor Oak's and don't stay too late. I'll be needing your help for tomorrow". The female adult said softly to her adopted daughter, gently rubbing Azora's head with her right hand.

"Okay... Mom". Azora said shyly, gazing down at the ground with an embarrassed blush. Everyone smiled at the blue-haired girl, before Ash turned to his mother and gave a wave of the right hand at her. "Bye mom, see ya later". The Rainbow Hero bid goodbye as he and his companions all turned around and began walking away. "Mime! Mr. Mime!" Mr. Mime cried out, waving its right hand to the walking away party and wishing them luck in their travels.

Delia watched them all go with a soft smile. She blinked upon noticing something with Azora; the 8-year-old girl was reaching out to take Ash's left hand with her right hand, but stopped herself at the last moment. The Rainbow Hero noticed, however, and gave a smile at his adopted younger sister before taking Azora's hand. The blue-haired female inhaled sharply, before looking up at Ash's face and saw him smiling down at her.

After a few moments, Azora returned the smile at her new older brother before facing forward. Delia giggled in happiness at the sight of her children getting along, happy that Azora is growing more comfortable around Ash. 'I hope both of you grow much closer to one another. And that Azora's lost her fear when you return home, Ash'. The Rainbow Hero's mother thought to herself, hoping that the future is bright for her two children and that Azora loses her fear.

(Play Fairy Tail - Exceed Tachi Ost)

The gang walked through Pallet Town's streets, its residents giving their greetings to the town's champion trainer. Azora hid behind Ash at all the attention out of fear, while the Rainbow Hero waved at them all. Eventually; the whole gang was currently walking up the stairs to Professor Oak's laboratory. "So, what's the plan after we get our Pokémon back?" May asked with a curious voice, just as they all reached the front door and stopped in front of it.

"Simple, we have Jirachi teleport us back to Mauville City, stock up on supplies and leave at the end of the day". Sorrel answered the brunette, right as Ash rang the doorbell. 'That'll be no problem for me!' Jirachi exclaimed proudly, raising his right hand up. "I'm gonna see if Wally's still there or not and see how he's doing since our last battle". The Rainbow Hero told his friends, before looking at Azora who was still holding onto his left hand with both of hers now.

Before anyone else could speak up; the lab's front door opened to reveal Professor Oak with the old man smiling at the trainers before him. "Ahhh, welcome back everyone. And Azora and Sylvia, it's great to see you again". Kanto's regional professor greeted with a warm voice, turning to look at Azora and was pleased to see her holding Ash's hand. "H-hello Professor Oak. I hope you're having a good day". The blue-haired girl greeted Samual Oak back with a bow of her head. "Veon". Sylvia said softly, unlike how she acted around the gang yesterday.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all looked at Azora and Sylvia, not really surprised that they're friends with Professor Oak. They've been here in Pallet for a good few weeks and came to Professor Oak's lab to play with the Pokémon. It was good to see them not so nervous or on guard around the kind old man, it's proof that they can relax around others.

"Hey Professor Oak. We're here to pick up our Pokémon and resume our journey". Verity told Kanto's regional professor, right as Piplup jumped up and the Twinleaf girl wrapped her arms around the Water type. "I see. By the way Sorrel and Verity, all of your Pokémon have been transferred over safely". Professor Oak informed the two Sinnoh residents, much to their joy at hearing this. Even Piplup gave a delighted cry while Lucario just grinned.

Ash, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu and Jirachi all smiled at their friends. But then all of a sudden, some kind of shadow appeared over Ash and Pikachu, blocking out the sun. Everyone blinked in surprise, right before a familiar cry erupted from up above. Getting a sort of bad feeling; Azora let go of Ash's hand before she and Sylvia jumped back a bit. Without warning; something crashed down on Ash and Pikachu from above, kicking up a bit of dust with the two crying out in surprise.

Everyone all widen their eyes in surprise at this unexpected development. Thankfully the dust cleared to reveal that the mysterious "attacker" was Miraidon with the violet dragon standing atop Ash and Pikachu with them both lying down on their backs, looking up at Miraidon with wide eyes. "Miraidon?!" The Rainbow Hero cried out in surprise at Miraidon's surprising entrance. "Chu pika pi!" Pikachu exclaimed with comically white wide eyes, just as surprised as Ash.

The violet dragon had an overjoyed face that was directed at Ash. Miraidon let out a delighted cry, before nuzzling Ash's face with both eyes closed in a happy manner. The Rainbow Hero let out a chuckle at Miraidon, not really used to this since Miraidon wasn't so affectionate like this yesterday. "Looks like Miraidon missed you very much, Ash". May teased her boyfriend with a grin, folding both hands behind her back.

Everyone chuckled at what May said, while Azora puffed her cheeks out in jealousy since she wanted to nuzzle with Miraidon herself. Despite this being her first time seeing the violet dragon, Azora had already taken a great liking to Miraidon and wanted to bond with it. But it only seemed to care about Ash right now.

Professor Oak suddenly blinked, before growing a small smile at Ash over Miraidon. "Ahh yes! Ash, I did what you ask and sent word to all my contacts in the Paldea Region about Miraidon. I actually just received word about Miraidon's trainer and it turns out; it's an old friend of mine". Kanto's regional professor informed the Rainbow Hero, catching everyone's attention including Miraidon's.

The violet dragon stepped aside, allowing Ash to get back on his feet with Pikachu riding on the right shoulder. "Really? That was faster than I expected". The Rainbow Hero stated, honestly expecting it to take a few days for them to get a lead on Miraidon's trainer. Miraidon gave out a rather excited cry from Ash's right, paying no mind as Azora climbed onto its back, taking hold of the violet dragon's accents.

"Indeed, I was even surprised. But anyway; my old friend has a rather serious matter to discuss with you". Professor Oak informed Ash, much to the Rainbow Hero's curiosity on what this mystery trainer would want with him. "Is it about Miraidon?" Ash asked, crossing both arms as he spoke. Professor Oak nodded his head in reply, resulting in Ash growing a small frown on his face.

(Music end)

Professor Oak led the whole gang, Azora, Sylvia and Miraidon included, to the main room where he does his research. It hasn't changed at all since Ash, Brock and Pikachu were last there, but it was a bit impressive for Sorrel, Verity, May, Max, Lucario and Piplup. Right now; Ash, Brock, Sorrel, Verity and Lucario were standing behind Professor Oak as he sat down in front of his computer/Pokémon Transfer and typed away at the keyboard, all the while Pikachu held onto Ash's right shoulder and Piplup was being carried in Verity's hands.

May was sitting down on the couch, Max and Jirachi were beside one another as they looked through Professor Oak's shelf full of books. Finally; Azora was still mounted on Miraidon's back with Sylvia sitting down behind her and the violet dragon was walking around a bit, playing around a bit with Ash's new little sister and her partner.

Ash spared Azora, Sylvia and Miraidon a quick glance with a small smile, before turning his gaze back to Professor Oak with a curious face. "Professor Oak, where's Gary and Tracey?" The Rainbow Hero asked Kanto's regional professor, having noticed that his old friend and former traveling companion aren't here in the lab.

"Gary's at home, preparing for his journey in Sinnoh while Tracey's gone to get some groceries for lunch later. They won't be back in time to say goodbye to you, Ash". Professor Oak answered Ash, suddenly ceasing his typing on the keyboard and gave an excited smile. "Ahhh, everything is set!" The old man stated with an excited voice, before he turned to look at Ash.

"Ash, everyone. Prepare to meet Professor Turo of the Paldea Region!" Professor Oak announced, catching everyone by surprise at hearing. 'Miraidon's trainer is a Pokémon Professor?!' Ash shouted out inside of his mind, turning to look at the violet dragon and saw Miraidon staring at the screen with an eager expression. May, Max and Jirachi all hurried to their friends' sides and stood beside them, right as the screen turned on.

It showed an adult man around his late thirties and early forties with light brown hair, a bit of tan skin and brown eyes. The unknown man was wearing a blue bodysuit with purple outlines resembling circuit lines across his chest arms and going down his legs underneath a white lab coat with blue square-shaped buttons. And behind the man were two white boards in some kind of lab that was a bit dark since there didn't seem to be much light.

(Play Professor Sada & Turo – Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: Extended Soundtrack OST)

The man that Ash and the others assumed was Professor Turo, raised his left hand and gave a finger salute to the Rainbow Hero. "Hello, Ash. It is nice to meet you". Professor Turo greeted the Rainbow Hero, much to the gang's surprise at how he knows Ash. Before they could question him, the Paldea professor continued. "My name is Professor Turo. I carry out Pokémon research within the Great Crater of Paldea- at a site known as Area Zero". Turo introduced himself and what he works on to them all.

'Great Crater of Paldea?' The whole gang thought to themselves, right as a picture came on screen and showed a VERY large crater on some mountains near a building with mist covering the inside of it. "Whoa! I guess that's why they call it the Great Crater". Max remarked, seeing how it earned that name. "Ha ha ha, very funny". Sorrel "laughed" with sarcasm, though he did look a bit interested with the Great Crater.

Azora and Sylia blinked at the picture, honestly astonished and wondered what exactly could cause that. The picture quickly disappeared, before Turo turned his gaze over to Professor Oak. "Samual Oak, it's been too long old friend". Paldea's regional professor greeted Samual, a greeting that Professor Oak returned with a happy laugh. "Indeed, it has, Turo. I'm glad to see you're in great health". Kanto's professor said with a happy voice, glad to see his old friend doing well.

"As much as I'd like to catch up on old times, first I need to speak with the boy". Turo responded to his fellow professor, before turning his gaze back to Ash. "Allow me to get straight to the point. Ash Ketchum, trainer ID number 8O5C393..." The adult man began, taking hold of his own chin with the left hand and leaving Ash a little bewildered at the ID thing. "You are the trainer that saved the unusual Pokémon Miraidon, is that correct?" He asked the Rainbow Hero, which Ash gave a slow nod to him.

"Y-yeah". Ash answered Professor Turo, earning a thankful smile from the older male. "Thank you. I appreciate that you were honest in confirming the facts, and in saving Miraidon". Paldea's regional professor thanked the Rainbow Hero. "It's no problem. I honestly don't see the point in lying or anything beside that. Professor Oak trusts you, so there isn't really a reason to be cautious around you". The raven-haired boy replied to Turo, having a good feeling that this "Professor Turo" is someone they can trust.

"Thank you for your kind words. I know that I have no right to ask, but I'd like your assistance". Turo said, catching Ash and everyone else as they blinked at him. "Assistance?" Verity said with a tilt of her head. "With what?" Brock questioned with a small frown, wondering what Turo needs help with. At that moment, Miraidon gave out a small cry and caught everyone's attention.

Turo grew a relived face at seeing the violet dragon. "Oh. How good to see that you are well. It has been quite a while since we last met". The regional professor of Paldea said with a pleased voice, earning an affectionate cry from Miraidon. Ash gave a smile the violet dragon, before turning his gaze back over to Professor Turo. "It's clear to see that you're Miraidon's trainer, so I've gotta ask something. Why was Miraidon so far away from you in the Hoenn Region? And why was it being chased by Walking Wake? Miraidon was so hurt and scared when I found him, so why did he ran away from Paldea?" The Rainbow Hero questioned, crossing both arms as he spoke.

At Ash's question, Professor Turo's face fell a bit. "It was my fault that things escalated to that level. Miraidon was badly hurt in a battle against another Pokémon here in Area Zero and lost most of its power, turning it into the form you all see". Turo explained to them all, much to their surprise at hearing a powerful Pokémon like Miraidon was defeated so badly.

'What kinda of Pokémon are in Area Zero?' Ash questioned inside of his mind, sparing a quick glance at Miraidon and saw it looking down with a sad look. Feeling bad for the violet dragon, Ash walked over to Miraidon and softly pat its head in a comfort, earning an appreciated smile from the Dragon and Electric type. Pikachu even jumped over to Miraidon's head and softly pat his new friend's head as well.

"Miraidon left Area Zero, and I assume it was going to look for someplace to stay in Paldea, but Walking Wake escaped Area Zero and chased after it. I can only assume that Miraidon was left with no choice, but to leave Paldea and search for sanctuary. But Walking Wake continued its pursuit". Turo continued to explain, regaining the attention of Ash, Pikachu and Miraidon.

"I was utterly astonished to learn that they both ended up in Hoenn. But to hear that the famed Rainbow Hero saved Miraidon from Walking Wake was something I never thought I'd hear". The adult man said with an amazed smile, utterly astonished that the violet dragon came into contact with a trainer chosen by legendary Pokémon. Ash and the others didn't give a surprised look, having honestly gotten used to people knowing about Ash's identity as the Rainbow Hero and let Turo continue.

"May I ask what happened to Walking Wake?" Turo asked with a curious voice, something that made Ash raise an eyebrow. "...I caught it". The Rainbow Hero answered, something that made Professor Turo gasp in surprise. "You captured Walking Wake? You truly are the winner of the Johto League Silver Conference". Professor Turo said in awe, growing an impressed smile at Ash.

"Thanks for that, but we're getting off track. Anyway, you want us to deliver Miraidon back to you?" The Rainbow Hero asked, now rubbing Miraidon's head with his left hand. "On the contrary, I'd like to officially give you Miraidon". Professor Turo answered, much to the absolute shock of everyone at hearing this. "W-What?! You want to give me Miraidon? Why?" Ash questioned once more, staring at Turo's image with wide eyes of shock.

"...Area Zero is a dangerous place, and Miraidon hasn't regained enough power to be safe here. But the most important reason is because you can greatly help it regain its powers". Professor Turo answered, before crossing his arms and gave a serious look. "I have a device here that lets me monitor Miraidon's power. It's been very low since it left Paldea. But just yesterday, its levels went up at an unbelievable pace without explanation. I can only assume that somehow, you had a hand in it". Paldea's regional professor informed them all, uncrossing his arms.

Ash raised an eyebrow at hearing this, before looking down to his left pocket where the Rainbow Wing was. 'Did the Rainbow Wing somehow restore Miraidon's powers?' The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, mind flashing back to how the Rainbow Wing's aura covered that sandwich before Miraidon ate it. "I'm certain that Miraidon can recover its full power if it stays with you. This is what I would ask of you: Will you continue looking after Miraidon on my behalf and become its new trainer?" Professor Turo asked Ash with a serious voice since this was a great matter to him.

Everyone turned to look at Ash and saw him staring at Professor Turo's image with wide eyes of disbelief. The request was honesty good in Ash's opinion and he'll get another legendary Pokémon, but something just couldn't didn't seem right to him. Caught up in his thoughts, Ash turned his gaze over to Miraidon and saw that the violet dragon wasn't really upset with the situation and was staring at him with wide eyes full of curiosity.

Ash grow a smile at the violet dragon, deciding to take the risks if it meant keeping his new friend around. The Rainbow Hero turned his gaze back to Turo's image and nodded to him. "Okay... I'll take Miraidon". The Rainbow Hero told Professor Turo, much to the joy of Pikachu, May and Azora at hearing this. Even Miraidon looked happy to hear this. Professor Turo himself looked pleased as well with Ash's answer.

"I do appreciate your agreement". Paldea's Pokémon Professor stated, giving a nod of the head. "I'm gonna need Miraidon's Poké Ball or whatever ball you used to capture him". Ash told Turo, reminding everyone of the Poké Ball issue with Miraidon. "Don't worry about that. I have Miraidon's Poké Ball right here". Professor Turo stated, bringing up his right hand to show an enlarged Poké Ball to them all.

At the sight of the Poké Ball, Miraidon gave a small cry of joy. Ash took that as a sign that it was indeed Miraidon's. "I've also made some adjustments to it so that it won't interfere with your journey". Professor Turo suddenly said, filling everyone with wonder at what he meant by that. "Turo, what do you mean "made some adjustments"? Would you explain what you mean?" Professor Oak asked on behalf of everyone else, curious to know these adjustments himself.

Professor Turo lowered his right hand and nodded to Oak. "I've imbedded Miraidon's Poké Ball with a special chip I created myself. With the chip installed, Miraidon won't take up space with young Ash's team of Pokémon and instead will be an unused 7th Pokémon". Palda's regional professor explained, once again stunning everyone at hearing this.

"A-a 7th Pokémon..." Ash uttered in with wide eyes full of disbelief at what he's hearing. It is an iron-clad rule that Pokémon trainers can only carry six Pokémon on them as a team, no exceptions. There were some trainers who broke that rule in many different ways and such. Anyone that broke that rule lost the right to be called "true" Pokémon trainers by cheating.

But here and now; Professor Turo was giving him a chance to have a 7th Pokémon all without breaking the rules. Growing interested in where this was going; Ash spoke up. "I'm listening. Explain more". Ash requested, eager to learn more about this special chip that'll allow him a 7th Pokémon. "This will allow you a seventh Pokémon to use, but there will be catches. It won't be registered as a part of your team, meaning you can't use it for official Pokémon Leagues, Gym battles or regular battles unless you made room for the sixth spot". Turo began to explain about the special 7th Pokémon spot for Miraidon.

"Sounds fair". Verity remarked, seeing that reasonable and not overall unfair to others. "Miraidon has been greatly weakened and is currently unable to battle, so I suggest not using him to battle so soon. In all likelihood, it will require some time to fully regain the capabilities it once had. I will provide you with my contact information. If you would please get out your phone". Professor Turo requested, one that Ash had no trouble against and brought out his Pikachu themed Rotom Phone.

After half a minute, Professor Turo's number had been added to Ash's contacts in his Rotom Phone. "Excellent. I'll be sending Miraidon's Poké Ball over to you now". Professor Turo told them all, holding up Miraidon's Poké Ball once more. "Everything is set over here, Turo. Awaiting transfer". Professor Oak told his friend, turning his gaze over to the Pokémon Transfer right beside him on the right.

Turo nodded, before leaning forward and placed Miraidon's Poké Ball down on something that everyone couldn't see. Suddenly a bright light erupted out of nowhere from Turo's side for a few seconds, before it died down. Professor Oak's Pokémon Transfer activated and bright white lights in the shape of lightning came out from the top and struck the bottom, eventually taking shape.

The light cleared to reveal an enlarged Poké Ball, no doubt Miraidon's one. Ash immediately walked over, leaving Miraidon, Pikachu, Azora and Sylvia, stopping in front of the device and picked it up with his right hand. He didn't see anything out of the ordinary with this device, just a normal Poké Ball. "I think I'm gonna have to put something on this Poké Ball so that I don't confuse it with the others". Ash uttered to himself, tapping on the center with the device shrinking down.

The Rainbow Hero put the shrunken Poké Ball away in his pocket. He returned his gaze over to Professor Turo once more, just as he began to speak again. "I will be in regular contact going forward to keep tabs on your status". Professor Turo told Ash as he put his Rotom Phone away in his pocket. "Thank you for everything, Professor Turo". The Rainbow Hero thanked Paldea's regional professor, for giving him Miraidon and the Poké Ball.

"Please, I should be the one thanking you for accepting my request. Still, I feel like I haven't thanked you enough for what you've done". Professor Turo replied to the Pallet Town boy, shaking his head sideways to the boy's thanks. He looked down in thought for a moment or two, before suddenly nodding his head. Palda's regional professor gazed back at Ash with a small smile. "Ash Ketchum, how would you like the chance to get one of the Paldea's three starter Pokémon?" Professor Turo asked with a curious voice, placing both hands on his hips.

The gang and Professor Oak were once again surprised by Professor Turo and his offer. "O-One of Paldea's starter Pokémon..." Max uttered in awe, seeing this as an amazing opportunity to take. "I-I'm really grateful for the chance, but isn't this a bit much? You've already given me Miraidon, so I don't really think you need to do more for me!" Ash exclaimed, waving both hands a bit to shake off the offer.

Professor Turo shook his head in response. "I gave you Miraidon because of my request. This is my thanks for saving it and accepting my request". The adult man explained to Ash, before reaching down for something with his right hand. All of a sudden, three images came up on the screen, displaying three different Pokémon.

One was a quadrupedal feline Pokémon covered in pale green fur. The fur's composition is similar to that of plants. It has green ears with pale green insides, a tuft of fur on the front of its chest and a green marking around its pink eyes and nose that resembled leaves. It had two pointed teeth in its upper jaw. It has a fluffy tail and small paws with pink paw pads underneath and no visible toes.

The second one's a bipedal crocodilian Pokémon with a mostly red body and a white stomach and face. Its body contains a small flame sac, which constantly leaks fire. The energy releases in the form of two bright yellow tufts of flame on top of its head. It has black eyes and triangular nostrils, and its mouth has three teeth, with one in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. It has stubby arms and large feet with two black toes on each foot. The Pokémon has yellow square scales on its stomach, back, tail, and the soles of its feet.

The final Pokémon's a white duckling-like Pokémon. It has a yellow beak and blue eyes. It has teal webbed feet and a large teal coif-like crest that covers its head, with a feathery tuft in the front and a white curvy line shaped like a wave.

"Allow me to introduce the three starter Pokémon of the Paldea Region. Sprigatito, the Grass Cat Pokémon. Fuecoco, the Fire Croc Pokémon. And Quaxly, the Duckling Pokémon". Professor Turo introduced the three starters of Paldea to them all. Instantly, May, Max and Jiachi all gasped in awe at seeing the three. "Oh, wow! They're all so cool!" Max cried out with wide eyes of awe at seeing the starters, having never seen them before in his life. "Not to mention cute!" May stated, clapping both hands together in delight.

Brock, Verity, Sorrel, Piplup and Lucario were amazed as well with the Twinleaf girl looking directly at Quaxly's image with interest. Azora let out a low, yet sharp gasp at the sight of the three, before growing a massive smile because she found them utterly adorable. Miraidon, Pikachu and Sylvia stared at the images with curiosity, this being their first time at seeing those Pokémon.

And as for Ash; he was filled with fascination. Fuecoco and Quaxly both held his interest for a bit, but it was Sprigatito that fully captured it. As he stared at the Grass Cat's image, Ash honestly wondered why he seemed to favor that one out of the three. 'Honestly, it's like destiny is urging me to pick that one out of the three'. The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, wondering why he was feeling some unknown force telling him to pick Sprigatito.

Ash wouldn't know in a good few years that because of this choice; he'd bond with someone that'll be important to him in the future.

The Rainbow Hero let out a sigh; deciding to go along with this fondness he has for Sprigatito and choose it. "Okay, I'll take you up on your offer. I pick Sprigatito". Ash declared, pointing his right hand's index finger at Sprigatito's image. The three pictures disappeared to show Professor Turo and he nodded to Ash. "I understand. Very well, I'll get a Sprigatito for you as thanks. The longest it'll take is a week, though". Paldea's regional professor told Ash, needing a bit of time to get a Sprigatito and deliver it to him.

"I understand. And once again, thank you". Ash thanked Professor Turo, giving him a smile full of gratitude. "It was my pleasure, Ash Ketchum. I look forward to seeing what you'll accomplish with Miraidon in the future. Until then". Professor Turo bid farewell, giving a finger salute with his right hand before walking away to his left. The screen quickly turned off, meaning the discussion was over.

(Music end)

Everyone turned their eyes over to Ash with Sorrel smiling at his sworn brother. "Well Ash, you've really been given an amazing gift. Being able to carry a 7th Pokémon on you is something I've never heard any trainer ever achieving". The Veilstone boy said to Ash, starting to think his sworn brother's luck was bigger than he originally thought. "It's an amazing privilege, I'll admit. But I'll need to be careful with this. Some other trainers could either accuse me of cheating or find it unfair". The Rainbow Hero said with a small frown, crossing both arms and turned to look at Miraidon.

Professor Oak gave a nod of the head to Ash's words. "I have to agree with him on that. Some trainers won't be so supporting of Ash's good fortune and who knows what they'll do. The worst case being them trying to accuse Ash of breaking one of the rules of being a Pokémon trainer and the consequences will be unspeakable". The old man said with a deep frown, certain that there'll be a good number of trainers that will be jealous of Ash and attempt to bully him if they learn of this.

May, Max and Jirachi all comically shivered at the thought of other Pokémon trainers causing them trouble. Azora grew a face full of fear, her fear of humans showing terribly. The rest of the gang weren't so afraid of that future, instead they were already prepared if something like that ever happened. "Let them try and see where it gets them". Ash said with a confident smirk, not the least bit afraid of some random trainers trying to cause him trouble.

The whole gang smiled at Ash and his confidence, full of belief that he can back up that talk. The Rainbow Hero turned his gaze over to Miraidon and smiled at it. "Well Miraidon, looks like you're officially apart of the team now". Ash said to his new violet dragon with joy in his voice, honestly relived that he didn't have to say goodbye to Miraidon after becoming friends with it.

"Pika-pika!" Pikachu cried out, raising his right hand into the air cheerfully. Miraidon let out a happy cry, lifting its head up into the air with a face full of joy. Azora smiled down at the violet dragon she's ridding atop of, before softly rubbing the back of Miraidon's neck with her right hand. She was honestly a bit disappointed that she's not gonna get the chance to play and bond with this wonderful Pokémon, but Azora understood that it was for the best.

"I wonder what else Miraidon's capable of doing, and just how powerful it is". Sorrel said with a curious voice, staring at the violet dragon with both arms crossed. "Oh, you guys have no idea what our new friend can do". May said with a small smile, having personally seen and experienced Miraidon's mysteries like when Ash drove it like a motorcycle.

"As much as I'm enjoying this, I think it's time we were on our way". Brock remarked, catching the gang's attention as they turned to look at him and nod. Azora's face fell at hearing this, suddenly feeling very sad at the thought of parting with her new brother. She's grown so much closer to him despite the short time, and now it was starting to scare her at the thought of being away from him for a long time.

She lowered her head, before she dismounted Miraidon on its left with Sylvia jumping off and landing right next to Azora. "Yeah, you're right Brock. Let's grab our Pokémon and get going". Verity said with a nod of her head, eager to resume their journey. "Piplup!" Piplup cried out from Verity's arms, eager herself to resume training and battle some trainers.

At the mention of "Pokémon", Professor Oak blinked upon remembering something important. "Ah, yes! That reminds me!" The old man stated, before turning his chair around to look at Verity, Sorrel, Piplup and Lucario. "All your Pokémon have been safely transferred to my research lap and are currently outside". Kanto's regional professor informed the Sinnoh residents, catching them by surprise at hearing this. Their surprise quickly changed to excitement at hearing this, a feeling their friends shared.

"The rest of Sorrel and Verity's Pokémon?! Does that mean the others like Houndoom, Entei, Manectric, Lopunny, Milotic and Lapras are here?" Max asked with an excited voice, carrying Jirachi in his arms this time. Sorrel gave a chuckle at Max's question, before he turned to look at the younger boy. "Yes, but there's more. To be honest, I have 3 more Pokémon that you guys haven't seen yet". The Veilstone boy revealed to Max, much to his excitement at hearing this.

"Not just him, I've got 3 more that I haven't gotten the chance to show you all!" Verity exclaimed with an excited grin, now filling May with excitement at hearing this. "Okay, now I'm interested. Let's go check our Pokémon out". Ash said with an eager grin, turning around and walked off to the door that connected to the hall. Miraidon quickly followed after its new trainer with Pikachu hanging onto Miraidon's head.

(Play The Eminence in Shadow OST - Get Bewildered)

Everyone, including Professor Oak, Azora and Sylvia, went outside to the backyard. Almost as if they were waiting for their trainers; all of the Pokémon under the ownership of Ash, May and Brock came out of the forest.

Grovyle, Blastoise, Deino, Timber, Snorlax, Skrelp, Sableye, Corphish, Meganium, Muk, Typhlosion, Nidoking, Venusaur, Gallade, Kabutops, Rapidash, Hitmonlee, the Tauros horde, Ampharos, Ursaring, Feraligatr, Raikou, Tyranitar, Espeon, Zoroark, Trevenant, Donphan, Kingler, Primeape, Torkoal, Onix, Marshtomp, Lotad, Throh, Druddigon, Combusken, Gastrodon, Azumarill and Skitty were running on land while Latios, Flygon, Tailow, Magnezone, Pidgeot, Heracross, Charizard, Lapras, Skarmory, Noctowl, Latias, Scizor, Gengar, Dragonite, Solrock and Klefki were flying towards them. Like yesterday, Lapras was using Psychic on itself to fly through the air.

Once all of the Pokémon were just a few feet away; May and Brock got to work on recalling their Pokémon while Ash, Pikachu and Miraidon all stood in front of Ash's gathered Pokémon. Piplup and Lucario set out to find the rest of Sorrel and Verity's Pokémon, leaving the trainers for now.

The Rainbow Hero stood with both arms on his hips, Miraidon sitting down on the right and Pikachu standing up on his left. The rest of the gang, Azora, Professor Oak and Sylvia were watching a few feet from behind as Ash addressed his Pokémon. "Okay everyone first order of business is-" Ash began, only to get interrupted as Deino sudden shot out and straight up tackle him.

Ash comically spat out air, right before the force from Deino's unexpected tackle sent him crashing down on the ground on his back with the Dragon and Dark type now atop him. "You again!?" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed with annoyance in his voice, right before Deino went up and bit him on the nose. Ash comically cried out in pain, while Pikachu sweat drop at the sight and Miraidon tilted its head.

Everyone else, including Ash's Pokémon, all sweat drop at the sight yet made no move to help the Rainbow Hero with his dragon Pokémon. Fortunately for Ash, he managed to get Deino off of him in a single minute with the Irate Pokémon rejoining the others.

The Rainbow Hero held his right fist up and cleared his throat out. He then looked at all his Pokémon before him. "Now, as I was saying before Deino interrupted me, first order of business; where's Marshadow?" Ash asked, noticing the lack of Gloomdweller Pokémon among the large group. 'Here'. A familiar voice answered from behind Ash. The Rainbow Hero looked over his left shoulder, Pikachu turned around and Miraidon turned its head with the three of them seeing Marshadow's eyes in Ash's shadow.

'I've been with you ever since Miraidon knocked you off your feet at the entrance'. The Fighting and Ghost type told his trainer, speaking as he emerged from Ash's shadow. "I see. So, that means you know about my talk with Professor Turo then". Ash stated, certain that Marshadow had been listening in on the conversation inside. 'My apologies if I listened in through your shadow in secret, but I just wanted to be safe'. Marshadow apologized, bowing his head with both eyes closed in shame.

Ash wasn't offended by Marshadow's actions; he just gave his usual grin at the Gloomdweller Pokémon. "Don't worry about it; you're free to do what you want without telling me. Just don't be so secretive all the time". The Rainbow Hero told his old friend, getting a smile out of Marshadow as he gazed up at Ash. The Rainbow Hero gave a wink of the eye, before facing forward again. "Listen in, I'm about to tell everyone the news and make my choice on who I'll switch out". Ash told Marshadow, wanting nothing more than to tell his Pokémon the news about Miraidon.

Marshadow gave a nod, before looking over to his comrades. Even Pikachu and Miraidon faced forward again. "Okay everyone; Miraidon's one of us now! His original trainer called, and asked me to look after Miraidon, so he's now a new Pokémon of mine". Ash announced, gesturing to the violet dragon with his right hand. All of Ash's Pokémon erupted in cheers at hearing this, Torkoal especially, since they had all gotten along so well with Miraidon and became good friends with it.

Miraidon grew a small grin at seeing all the other Pokémon so happy to hear he's one of them now. "But that's not all, everyone. Miraidon's previous trainer; Professor Turo, made some adjustments to the Poké Ball. Now; I can take Miraidon with me as an unused 7th Pokémon even if I already have six Pokémon with me". The Rainbow Hero explained to them all, excitement leaking out of his voice.

This bit of news surprised Ash's Pokémon for a moment, before they all cried out in cheers for Miraidon again. The violet dragon was beginning to feel a bit embarrassed, before lowering its head to hide the embarrassment. Once all his Pokémon had quiet down from their cheering; Ash spoke up once more. "Okay, now I'll be selecting who to take with me back to Hoenn at least until I earn my fifth badge. Pikachu and Miraidon will obviously be the first two". The Rainbow Hero told them all, receiving excited cries from Pikachu and Miraidon at hearing this.

"For the next spot; it's you Grovyle!" Ash declared, pointing his right hand's index finger at the Wood Gecko Pokémon. "Grovyle". The Grass type said with a pleased voice, adjusting the twig in his mouth. "Corphish!" Gorphish growled out in anger, looking up at Grovyle with envy and frustration. "You're coming along too, Corphish!" The Rainbow Hero suddenly called out, much to the Water type's comical surprise. "Corphish cor!" Corphish exclaimed, looking at his trainer with wide eyes.

Ash turned his gaze over to Tailow and saw the Flying and Normal type perched on Zoroark's right shoulder. "Tailow, you're coming too!" The raven-haired boy declared, much to Tailow's delight at hearing this. "Tailow tai low!" The Flying and Normal type cried out, spreading both wings out with Zoroark giving her friend a grin.

Ash looked over to Torkoal and saw the Coal Pokémon standing in between Charizard and Typhlosion. "Torkoal, you've got the next slot. I want some time to train you and see what we can improve". The Rainbow Hero told his latest Fire type catch, much to Torkoal's joy at hearing this. "Torkoal tork torkoal!" Torkoal started anime crying waterfalls from his eyes, getting Charizard and Typhlosion to look down at him with weirded out expressions.

Ash looked over all his Pokémon, pondering which one he should pick for the final spot in the team. He suddenly stopped and grew a comical annoyed face at Deino from seeing him jump up and down in excitement. He felt a small shiver go down his spin at the thought of constantly getting chewed on by that dragon daily, but felt like Deino deserved it since he hasn't really spent any time with it since Deino's capture.

The raven-haired boy let out a defeated sigh with both eyes closed, before opening them and gazed right at the Irate Pokémon. "I'm probably gonna have a hard time relaxing with you around, but you're in Deino". Ash told the Dragon and Dark type, taking a mental note to have Grovyle and the others keep a close eye on Deino in the upcoming days.

Deino immediately broke out into a joyful cheer at hearing this, jumping up and down with a wide grin. A single trace of sweat dropped down the left side of Ash's face, before the Rainbow Hero turned his gaze over to all his Pokémon once more. "Grovyle, Corphish, Tailow, Torkoal and Deino will be the five I'll be taking with me this time, but don't be down in the dumps because of this. You'll all get your chance soon, just continue to enjoy life here for the moment". Ash told them all, promising them all they'll get their chance soon.

(Music end)

Ash's Pokémon all gave a quicky cry in response, along with a nod of the head. Ash gave a pleased smile at his Pokémon's cooperation, before growing a curious face. "Anyway guys, how have things been with Walking Wake?" The Rainbow Hero asked, noticing that his other latest catch wasn't here with them. At Ash's question, all the Pokémon grew uncomfortable faces at the thought of that Suicune look-alike.

'Well... Let's just say he hasn't exactly been friendly. We've tried approaching to become friends, but he either ignores us or attacks. All that guy seems to care about is fighting'. Latios informed Ash, giving a small wince upon thinking back to how he tried to approach Walking Wake and got blasted by a Hurricane attack. Ash and Pikachu let out mentally exhausted sighs at hearing this, while Miraidon narrowed its eyes.

"Walking Wake's proving to be rather challenging already. Still, don't give up on trying to become friends with him just yet, keep on trying okay". The Rainbow Hero told them all, refusing to give up on Walking Wake so soon. All of Ash's Pokémon all nodded to their trainer once more, which Ash, Pikachu and Miraidon returned the nod. "Okay, one last thing! In just a few days; we'll have another new Pokémon joining the team. It'll be one straight from the Paldea Region, just like Miraidon here. So get ready to welcome another new member of the family soon". The Rainbow Hero informed them all, finally telling everything he needed to tell.

All the Pokémon grew both fascinated and excited at hearing this, curious about this new family member they'll have soon. "That's all I have to tell you guys. You're all free to go off now, we'll see you around". Ash told them all, giving a small smile. "Pikachu pi-pika!" Pikachu exclaimed, waving both hands up and down. Miraidon gave a soft cry, bowing its head down to its new friends.

The Pokémon gave their goodbyes to Ash, Pikachu and Miraidon, before they all took off back into the forest with the exceptions being Grovyle, Latios, Marshadow, Tailow, Corphish, Torkoal, Deino and Latias. 'I'll see you again soon, Ash'. Marshadow said with a small smile, before sinking into Ash's shadow and disappeared. 'We'll keep an eye on your mom and make sure nothing happens to her'. Latias told her trainer with a wide and bright smile, more than happy to keep Delia company for the days to come.

Ash gave the red Eon Dragon a thankful smile, one that Latias returned before she took off into the skies. 'Stay safe, and strong. I have a feeling that something big is gonna happen soon'. Latios told Ash, before he turned around and took off after his sister. Ash, Miraidon and Pikachu watched the eon siblings fly off, before the Rainbow Hero turned his gaze over to Grovyle, Corphish, Torkoal, Tailow and Deino.

The five gathered around with all of them facing their trainer. "Okay everyone, let's see if you guys learned any moves since I last saw you". Ash said with an eager voice, right before his Rotom Phone flew out of his pocket and up to his face. It turned sideways, before it turned on and scanned Grovyle first. To Ash's astonishment, Grovyle had learned Leaf Storm and replaced Energy Ball with it. "Nice Grovyle! Learning Leaf Storm, great job". Ash praised the Wood Gecko Pokémon, giving him a small applause with his hands.

"Gro..." Grovyle grinned at Ash's words, taking pride at the praise. "Corphish!" Corphish glared at Grovyle once more, finding it unfair that he's being praised. The Rotom Phone turned to Corphish and scanned the Water type, showing Ash its data. "Huh... So you learned Blizzard to replace Bubble Beam, huh? Good work Corphish, this'll be a good counter for Grass types". Ash praised his Ruffian Pokémon, much to Corphish's joy at Ash's praise.

The Rainbow Hero's Pikachu themed Rotom Phone turned to the flying Tailow and scanned it this time. Roost and Sky Attack were gone, now replaced by Double Team and U-turn. "Tailow, I'm impressed greatly. You've trained very good". Ash praised the Normal and Flying type, flashing a proud grin. "Tailow tai! Low low!" Tailow exclaimed in delight, closing both eyes in a happy manner.

The Rotom Phone gave Torkoal a quick scan, but just as Ash was expecting, no chances whatsoever. It went on to Deino and just like Torkoal, no changes in the moves, but it wasn't really a problem for him. Ash took his Rotom Phone with his left hand, turned it off and put the device away. "Okay Torkoal and Deino, we've got a lot of progress to make with you two. Grovyle, Tailow and Corphish, don't be too hard on them straight away when we start training, we'll start easy for the first day or two". The raven-haired boy told them, wanting to take it easy first to get a good feel of Torkoal and Deino.

Pikachu, Miraidon, Grovyle, Tailow, Corphish, Torkoal and Deino all nodded to Ash once more. With nothing left to discuss, Ash recalled Miraidon, Grovyle, Tailow, Corphish, Torkoal and Deino to their Poké and Premier Balls. Once they were all fully recalled; Pikachu climbed up to Ash's left shoulder and he turned around to look at his travel companions.

"I'm ready to go. You guys ready?" Ash asked his friends, which May, Max, Brock and Jirachi nodded to him. Verity and Sorrel, on the other hand, shook their head in response. "Not just yet, Ash. We're still waiting on Piplup and Lucario with the rest of our Pokémon". Sorrel answered, turning to look at Pallet Town's strongest trainer. "Oh, speak of the devil. Here they come". Verity suddenly remarked, catching everyone's attention as they looked over to her and saw the Twinleaf girl gazing forward.

Before they could even think of speaking, a horde of cries erupted from the forest. Ash, Sorrel, May, Max, Azora, Brock, Professor Oak, Pikachu, Jirachi and Sylvia looked over to see Piplup and Lucario running towards them with a horde of Pokemon behind them. The horde consists of the Pokémon that the gang have seen that Verity and Sorrel used in the past like Gible, shiny Togepi, Tangrowth, Lopunny, shiny Milotic, Suicune, Lapras, shiny Gardevoir, Kingdra, Vaporeon, Mismagius, Regirock, Shelgon, Aerodactyl, Skorupi, Manectric, Luxray, Entei, Bouffalant, Poliwrath, Alakazam, shiny Ariados, Accelgor and Houndoom with Gardevoir carrying Lapras through Psychic.

But there were some Pokémon that the gang hasn't seen Verity or Sorrel have used before with them. There's a shiny Beautifly, Furret, Glameow, Lairon, Vicreebel and Drifblim. While there wasn't as much Pokémon like with Ash's, it was still incredibly impressive. "Wow, you guys have a lot of Pokémon! Way more than me!" May cried out in awe, mentally wishing that she had as many as they do.

The large horde of Pokémon split into two groups that went to their trainers. Group 1 was Piplup, Gible, shiny Togepi, Tangrowth, Lopunny, shiny Milotic, Suicune, Lapras, shiny Gardevoir, Kingdra, Vaporeon, Mismagius, shiny Beautifly, Furret and Glameow that went to Verity. Group 2 was Lucario, Regirock, Shelgon, Aerodactyl, Skorupi, Manectric, Luxray, Entei, Bouffalant, Poliwrath, Alakazam, shiny Ariados, Accelgor, Houndoom, Lairon, Vicreebel and Drifblim with them all heading to Sorrel.

The two groups of Pokémon stopped in front of their trainers. Piplup jumped into Verity's hands with the twinleaf girl catching her with a smile, right before Furret climbed up and wrapped itself around Verity's neck like a scarf. Sorrel went and pat the heads of Luxray and Shelgon, smiling at the two fondly first and then to the others.

The gang was amazed with the Pokémon Verity and Sorrel had, all of them fully aware of how powerful the ones they've seen before were and could tell it was the same with the new ones. May was staring at Verity's shiny Beautifly with wide eyes of awe. Max, on the other hand, had let go of Jirachi with the mythical Pokémon flying right beside his best friend. He brought out his Rotom Phone and held it out, turning the device on to scan Sorrel's Pokémon that he hasn't seen him use yet.

He first scanned Sorrel's Lairon. "Lairon, the Iron Armor Pokémon. It digs up iron ore for food, and smashes its steely body up against others in battles over territory". Max's Rotom Phone spoke, giving out information about the Iron Armor Pokémon such as its type, evolution line and weaknesses. Max's mind flashed back to when they all met Steven and his powerful Aggron, wondering if Sorrel's Lairon will evolve and match Steven's powerful Steel and Rock type.

Max turned his Rotom Phone over to Victreebel and scanned it. "Victreebel, the Flycatcher Pokémon. And the evolve form of Weepinbell. Victreebel can be found in small groups and is territorial. Victreebel hoards food, usually small birds and rodents, and collects Leaf Stones to perform evolution rituals at night to help Weepinbell become more Victreebel". The device spoke, giving out information about Victreebel to Max.

Max starting humming in thought, before finally directing his Rotom Phone over to Sorrel's Drifblim. "Drifblim, the Blimp Pokémon and the evolved form of Drifloon. Because it travels on wind currents, Drifblim's movements are unusual and unpredictable". Max's Rotom Phone informed him of Driblim, showing its type and weaknesses.

Max was greatly fascinated with Sorrel's three remaining Pokémon, his desire to become a Pokémon trainer himself one day growing much stronger. "Amazing... Sorrel and Verity must have traveled to various different places to have captured all these kinds of Pokémon". Brock uttered to himself, taking a mental note to get some more Pokémon for himself in the journey to come.

"Listen up everybody! From now on, you guys are gonna be living here in Pallet Town with Ash's Pokémon, so make yourselves comfortable and make some friends". Verity told her Pokémon, looking down at Furret resting around her neck. "Furret, Gible, Togepi, Beautifly and Tangrowth, you five are coming with me and Piplup for the next few days". The Twinleaf girl told the five, much to their excitement at hearing this.

"Lairon, Regirock, Shelgon, Aerodactyl and Skorupi, you're with me and Lucario now". Sorrel told his Pokémon, pointing at them one at a time. Lairon, Regirock, Shelgon, Aerodactyl and Skorupi all broke out in cheers at hearing this, while Lucario just smirked with anticipation. Sorrel and Verity gazed over to Professor Oak, needing to do one last thing with him before they're ready to go.

20 minutes later; the whole gang stood across Professor Oak, Azora and Sylvia with the three goodbye. Verity and Sorrel had recalled Furret, Gible, Togepi, Beautifly, Tangrowth, Lairon, Regirock, Shelgon, Aerodactyl and Skorupi to their ball devices, while the rest of their Pokémon ran off into the woods. Everything was set and ready for Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi to continue their journey in Hoenn.

"Well, we're off. Professor Oak, thanks for everything". Ash thanked the man that gave him Pikachu on the day he started his journey. "It was my pleasure, Ash. Take care of yourself in your journey". Professor Oak replied to the Rainbow Hero, although he doubted he needed to tell him that. Ash nodded to the old man, while Sorrel walked over to Professor Oak. The two shared a handshake with Sorrel bowing his head a little.

"It has been an honor to have met you, Professor Oak". Sorrel said to the world famed professor, truly grateful for this chance given to him. "The honor was all mine". Professor Oak replied, right before they both let go of each other's hands. "We'll come back someday, so stay well until then". Verity said to Kanto's regional professor with a playful grin, getting a laugh out of Professor Oak.

Ash went up to Azora, then got down on his right knee to be eye level with her. The two siblings were silent as they stared into each other's eyes, before Ash broke the silence. "Azora... I'm happy I got to meet you, even if it wasn't why I came back here so soon from my journey". The Rainbow Hero told his young adopted sister, raising his right hand and placed it on Azora's left shoulder.

"Play with my Pokémon as much as you want, just be careful in case of an accident happens. Don't stay out too late at night and never walk around alone, okay?" Ash added, which Azora gave a nod of the head to her older brother. The Rainbow Hero gave a pleased smile at Azora's nod, before lifting his hand from her shoulder. He turned his gaze over to Sylvia and saw the Fairy type watching him closely.

The Rainbow Hero reached out to pat Sylvia on the head, but retracted his hand when she started growling. Pikachu frowned at Sylvia, while Ash let out a small, disappointed sigh at this, but quickly got over it. "Sylvia, keep on doing what you've always done and protect Azora". The Rainbow Hero told Azora's trusted best friend, certain that Sylvia will keep Azora safe. The Fairy type didn't lose its scowl, but did nod to Ash.

The raven-haired boy gave a nod of approval, before he got back on his feet and walked over to his travel companions and stopped in front of them. "Alright guys, let's get going. No time like the present". Ash told his travel companions, receiving nods from them all. Max turned to look at Jirachi with a wide grin. "Jirachi, Teleport us all to Mauville City's Pokémon Center". The 8-year-old boy told Hoenn's mythical Pokémon, raising his right fist in excitement.

'On it!' Jirach exclaimed with an eager smile, closing his eyes as the tags began to glow a multicoloured light. Without warning; Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all began to glow a multicoloured lights, before they all disappeared.

Azora let out a low, sharp gasp as she reached out with her left hand. She stared at exactly where Ash stood just a few seconds ago, feeling a great deal of sadness that the boy she was beginning to grow closer to was gone now, back on his journey and leaving her at home. "My...brother..." Azora uttered to herself, lowering her left hand and gazed at the ground with sad eyes.

Sylvia noticed her best friend's sad look and grew worried for her. "Sylveon..." The Fairy type uttered, wrapping her ribbons around Azora's right arm. The blue-haired girl blinked in surprise, before gazing down at the Fairy type with a forced smile. "I'm...okay. I just got so used to Ash, I'm feeling a bit sad that he's gone off on his journey". The Rainbow Hero's younger sister said softly to Sylvia, gazing back to where she last saw Ash.

Sylvia gave a small smile at Azora in relief that she's starting to lose her fear. Despite being extremely overprotective of her; Sylvia wanted Azora to lose that terrible fear and live without concern. Azora's love for Pokémon was second to none, but so was her fear for humans. But thanks to Delia adopting them into the family, Azora has been improving greatly since that day.

Sylvia has dialed down her hate for humans a great deal since that day, but still remained distrustful of them. She honestly had no desire to change for the better, all Sylvia cared about was looking after Azora and ensuring she lives happily. And Sylvia could see that Ash was beginning to become an important person to Azora, despite their short time together. The Fairy type just hoped that he comes back soon and Azora's a lot better when that day comes.

"Well Azora, I'll be inside my lab to wait for Tracey to come back. You enjoy yourself and don't wander off too far". Professor Oak told Azora, giving her a short smile before he turned around and went back inside his laboratory. Azora and Sylvia watched him walk away until he disappeared from sight once he walked in. The two gazed forward, before Azora began walking forward.

"Come Sylvia... Let's go look for some of my brother's Pokémon and see how they're doing". The blue-haired girl said softly, thinking that maybe she'll cheer up by playing with her friends. "Veon". Sylvia responded, following her best friend at a quick enough pace to keep both ribbons wrapped around Azora's left hand.

It'll be some time before Azora will reunite with her brother again, at least until he's finished with the Hoenn Region.

---

(Hoenn Region; Mauville City/ Play Rustboro City)

Mauville City hasn't changed much in the few weeks that the gang's been away. Nothing new has been added, nothing old lost and the people of the city continued to enjoy their lives with their Pokémon. Today however, something's going on that had disrupted the peace and the gang are gonna get caught up in it, but just for an instant.

A few feet in front of Mauville City's Pokémon Center; 10 multicoloured lights appeared and cleared to reveal Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi. The gang looked around their surroundings and saw they were back in Mauville City. "Travel by Teleport really makes it all the easier". Max remarked, right before Jirachi flew into his arms and he wrapped both arms around the mythical Pokémon.

Verity turned to look at her boyfriend with a curious expression. "So, what's the plan for today?" The Twinleaf girl asked Ash, catching his attention. "Well, I'm gonna go look for Wally and see how he's doing". The Rainbow Hero answered with an eager voice at the thought of seeing that boy that wanted him to be his rival. "Pikachu pi pika". Pikachu remarked with an excited smirk, desiring to see that boy again himself.

Verity smiled at her boyfriend, while Sorrel, Brock and Lucario discussed something. "Let's stop by the market and restock on supplies. There's nothing wrong with being extra prepared". The Veilstone boy said, crossing both arms as he spoke. "I guess that I can't argue with that. Okay, let's check it out". Brock replied, seeing no reason why they can't get more supplies for their journey.

"Guys, let's go visit Wattson and see how he's doing!" Max exclaimed with an eager voice, catching everyone's attention as they gazed over to him. Right before anyone could speak, suddenly loud footsteps coming from all around caught the gang's attention. They all looked around their surroundings, right before a large number of black suited men with sunglasses appeared out of nowhere and surrounded them.

(Play Eden's Zero Justice Theme)

It was reasonable to say that the gang were surprised at this unexpected development. "What the heck?! Who are these guys?!" May exclaimed with comically white eyes of astonishment. "How am I supposed to know the answer to that?" Sorrel shot back, slightly raising both fists with Lucario growling at the suited men around them. "Keep calm guys and stick together!" Brock told the others with his teeth grit at this whole situation.

"Who are you and what do you want?" Ash questioned with a deep frown, right hand open and switching to grab one of his Poké Balls. At first there was no response, before a single black suited man stepped forward and spoke. "Ash Ketchum and Brock of Pewter City! You're to come with us and answer all our questions about Lady Jessebelle's fiancé!" The man spoke loud and clear for them to hear.

Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all tilted their heads in confusion as they had no idea who this "Jessebelle" is. Ash, Brock and Pikachu on the other hand, turned comically white in terror as they now know perfectly what's going on right now. "Oh, COME ON! Not this crap again!" The Rainbow Hero yelled out with annoyance, returning back to normal and comically grit his teeth.

Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all turned to look at Ash, Brock and Pikachu just as the other two returned to normal as well. "Ash, Brock, you know what's going on right now?" May asked with a hopeful voice, mentally praying that they didn't accidentally tick off someone rich or something like that. "We'll explain later, right now we gotta get out of here!" Brock answered with narrowed eyes, no desire to get caught up in this at all.

"Time to pull off one of Team Rocket's tricks and get going!" Ash exclaimed, bringing out a Poké Ball with his right hand and tapped on the center, causing the device to enlarge. "Torkoal, blow out as much smoke as you can!" The Rainbow Hero commanded, rearing his right hand in before throwing it out and tossing the Poké Ball out. The device spun through the air, suddenly stopping and burst open, releasing a white light.

It struck the ground, kicking up a bit of dust as it took shape. The light cleared to reveal Torkoal standing on all four feet proudly. "Torkoal!" The Coal Pokémon cried out, blowing out smoke from its nostrils and the top of its back. Torkoal blew out so much smoke that the whole area in front of the Pokémon Center was covered in smoke. Coughing came from inside the smoke, followed by three bright white flashes of light and three different cries.

Suddenly powerful gusts of wind erupted from within the smoke, blowing it away to reveal a Pidgeot, Fearow and Scyther in the air, all the black suited men unharmed yet the gang was somehow gone. All the adult men gasped at seeing this, before their seemingly leader turned to look at the others and spoke out loud. "Spread out and find them! They couldn't have gotten away, so don't let them escape!" He ordered them all, throwing his right hand out to the side.

"Yes sir!" They all cried out in response, before taking off in different directions with the Pidgeot, Fearow and Scyther taking off in search as well. Their self-mission was to find their lady's fiancé by any means necessary, even if it meant taking a few kids hostage.

---

(With the gang)

In a deeper part of Mauville City filled with people; Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario, Jirachi and Torkoal all ran down the street together before they all stopped to take a breather. "Gotta hand it to Team Rocket; their get away tactic is more useful than I thought". Sorrel remarked, not the least bit out of breath by the running they just did.

"I agree with you on that, but that's not really important right now". Max stated, turning his gaze over to Brock and frowned at him. "What's going on here anyway? Who were those guys and why were they after us?" The 8-year-old boy questioned Brock with a deep frown, certain that he knew the answer with how he acted earlier. Brock turned to look at his younger friend for a moment, before letting out a deep sigh.

Just as he opened his mouth to speak and explain; Ash suddenly spoke. "We'll explain, but not out here. It's too risky". The Rainbow Hero said with a small glare, grabbing the gang's attention. They looked over to him and saw Ash looking forward at something specific. They looked over, before Verity, May, Max, Piplup and Jirachi blinked in surprise.

The street they were in was filled with not just residents of this town, but black suited men as well. They weren't the same ones that tried to capture them at the Pokémon Center, different people in general and they seemed to be either looking around or speaking to passing by people. "There's more of them? Just how many guys are we dealing with anyway?" May questioned with an annoyed frown, wondering who's the one responsible for all of this stuff happening.

"No clue". Verity answered, turning her gaze over to a single black suited man that was speaking to a 16-year-old female Pokémon Trainer. He spoke a few words to her, before holding up a single photo with his left hand, one that Verity was able to see despite the distance. She blinked upon seeing the picture showing a much younger James with a blue shirt. The female Pokémon trainer spent a moment staring at the photo, before shaking her head.

"There's more of those black suited guys here. If they started chasing us, we'll have nowhere to run or hide". Ash said with a dangerous frown, before gazing over to his left towards an alleyway. "Let's go hide, then we'll tell you guys about what's happening". The Rainbow Hero told them, pointing over to the alleyway with his left hand. Ash then looked over to Torkoal and smiled down at him.

"Thanks for the help, Torkoal. Return for now, I'll call on you again if we're in trouble". Ash said with a thankful smile, bringing up Torkoal's enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand. "Torkoal". The Fire type replied just as Ash fully recalled it to its Poké Ball. The Rainbow Hero quickly put his device away, before running into the alleyway with his friends following after him.

Soon they were deep in the alleyway, out of the public's eye. The gang stood around a circle with Pikachu, Piplup and Jirachi hanging onto their best friend's shoulders. "Okay guys, we should be safe here. Now we can tell you all about what's going on". Ash told the gang, crossing both arms as he spoke. "About time". May grumbled out with anime half lidded eyes, not really in a mood to play detective and just get the answers right away.

"And what does James have to do with this?" Verity asked with a small frown. May, Max, Sorrel, Jirachi, Lucario and Piplup gazed over to her in confusion, while the other three slightly frowned. "...I'll just cut straight to the chase. James is actually the son of one of those rich families". Ash revealed, wasting no time and revealing one of James' secrets.

This got all the newest members of the gang to gasp in surprise at hearing this; even Sorrel and Lucario lost their calm faces. "James, rich? As in our James? That blue-haired guy that's been chasing you around for 2 years?" Verity questioned with comically white wide eyes, honestly finding it hard to believe that guy was rich. Ash, Brock and Pikachu all let out mentally exhausted sighs with their eyes closed, before nodding all together.

(Music end)

It was clear to see that Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi were all shocked at what they've learned. They honestly never thought about Team Rocket's backstories, so to hear that James was actually a member of the high class of society was astonishing to hear. He always did seem more mature than Jessie and Meowth, but they just figured it wasn't anything to think about. But this discovery changed their minds.

"That's... astonishing to believe. He never really acted like a member of those of the higher class". Sorrel remarked, crossing both arms and gazed down at the ground in thought. "If all of that's true then why's he with Team Rocket?" May questioned with a jealous frown, thinking of all the fancy clothes that rich people have while commoners like her can't afford those expensive things. What she would give to have clothes like those.

"James left his family and joined Team Rocket for 2 reasons. The first one is because he wanted a life of freedom from all those high expectations". Brock told his friends, before he, Ash and Pikachu all anime shivered at the bigger reason James ran away. "And the more important reason... was to get away from his crazy fiancé". The Rainbow Hero said through grit teeth, experiencing a terrible flashback of him, Misty, Brock and Pikachu being chased by that mad woman back in Kanto.

"EEEEEHHHHH!?/ RRRAAA!?/ PIPLUP!" Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Jirachi, Lucario and Piplup all roared out in comical disbelief at what they just heard. "He even has a fiancé?!" Max exclaimed with anime white eyes at the size of bowling balls. "Yup. And let me just say; she's crazy". Brock answered with a sickly paling face. "Pikachu pi pika". Pikachu said in agreement, paling exactly like Brock is right now.

May blinked at the three, wondering why they were acting like that. "Is she really that bad?" The brunette asked, no clue just how crazy a woman James' fiancé is. "She's literally a doppelganger of Jessie, tried to manhandle James with a whip and chased me, Brock, Misty and Pikachu for 5 hours straight all for us to help her find James". Ash answered with the tip of his hat covering his eyes from view all, voice shivering a bit.

Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Jirachi, Lucario and Piplup all comically shivered at the mere thought of that, suddenly convinced that James' fiancé really was crazy. "I think I can understand why James ran away from home". Max uttered to himself, before both he and Jirachi shivered once more. 'I don't want to meet that girl'. The Steel and Psychic type said to himself, feeling unsafe at the thought of being anywhere close to this lady they're talking about.

"But the important question we should be asking is how did they find out James was here in Hoenn? And why are they here in Mauville City?" Brock suddenly questioned, looking over to the alleyway's entrance that they came in from. The gang turned their gaze over just in time to see a single black suited man walk by. "..." Ash grew silent, eyes narrowed as he thought of any possible answers to Brock's questions.

After a moment or two; Ash gave a shrug of his shoulders since he couldn't come up with an answer. "I can't think of anything. Let's just ask the three idiots themselves". The Rainbow Hero said to his friends, figuring that the best option would probably be to ask Team Rocket themselves. At Ash's words, Sorrel let out a mentally exhausted sigh with both eyes closed. "That's gonna be difficult. We don't know if they're even here in Mauville City or not". The Veilstone boy remarked, unintentionally reminding everyone how they last saw those three troublemakers.

Just as Max was about to speak up about using Jirachi to teleport Team Rocket to them; a familiar voice spoke up from nearby. "We're right here". Someone spoke from deeper in the alleyway, catching the gang by surprise as they blinked. They turned to look down the alleyway where they saw three trash cans with wheels at the end. They were all the same size, but it was rather odd to see neat trash cans here in an alleyway.

"Guys, do you think that's..." Max began, only for May to cut in and interrupt. "Yup, it's them". The brunette answered with anime half lidded annoyed eyes at how they always seem to run into Team Rocket even when they're not looking for each other. "Trash cans in an alleyway? That's the best you can come up with?" Ash asked with an unimpressed voice, placing both hands on his hips.

If Team Rocket were insulted by Ash's words, they didn't show it since they started their motto instead.

(Pokémon Anime Sound Collection - Team Rocket Motto (Kanto Version)

"Prepare for an annoying kind of trouble that's like an irritating piece of bubblegum struck to your shoe!" A feminine voice called out from the left trash can. "Make it super extra double because the past has caught up with us!" A terrified voice said from the right trash can, right before Jessie, James and somehow Meowth lifted the lids slightly with their heads.

Jessie and Meowth both looked very annoyed right now and James had a downright terrified face. "To protect the world from devastation". The adult woman continued with an irritated voice, making no move whatsoever. "To unite all people within our nation". James said his part with a shiver of fear. "To denounce the evils of truth and love". Jessie added, still making no move to get out. "To extend our reach to the stars above". The former rich boy said, actually slightly lowering his head deeper into the trash can.

"Jessie..." Jessie uttered with an eye roll. "...James". James whispered, gazing away to the side. "Team Rocket hiding from the rich at the speed of light". The female adult finished without any sign of enthusiasm on her voice or body. "Please ask them to surrender so that I can return to my life without concern". The former rich boy finished his part, breaking into a single bit of sweat.

"Meowth, oh yay". The Scratch Cat Pokémon said with a groan, before giving a sudden cry of surprise as Wobbuffet erupted from inside the trashcan, sending Meowth flying and slaming the lid open. "Wobbu...wobbuffet!" The Psychic type exclaimed with a wide smile, giving a salute with his right hand. Meowth came down with a grunt, slamming down hard on Wobbuffet and sent it back into the trash can. Meowth then grabbed his trash can's lid, before closing it completely with Jessie and James following his lead.

(Music end)

"You guys aren't as enthusiastic as normal. I guess this whole thing with James' family has drained you guys of all your spirits". Ash remarked, honestly unimpressed with that rather sorry excuse of a motto. "You have no idea". Jessie said from inside her trash can, staying inside. "I'm guessing that you guys aren't exactly on good terms with James' family either". Verity said with a look of pity directed right at the trash can that James is hiding in.

The team of troublemakers gave no answer, just groaned in discomfort. Seeing that they weren't gonna talk; Brock spoke up to explain. "When they first found out; Jessie and Meowth tried to force James to marry his fiancé all so they could become rich. But that plan went out the window since James' family easily found them, knocked them out and got thrown out the door". The former Gym Leader explained to his friends, smiling an uncomfortable smile at remembering getting thrown out the door himself.

"Wow... Your parents must be crazy if they did all that and got you a fiancé like that". May said with a wince, glad that she didn't have to worry about something like that from her parents. "I hate to interrupt our nice little chitchat we've got going on here, but I've got some questions for you guys. Like how exactly did James' family find out that you guys were here in Hoenn, in Mauville even?" Ash asked Team Rocket with a serious voice, crossing both arms.

Jessie, James and Meowth all slammed the lids up and send them slamming into the trash cans completely, before the two humans stood up on their feet and Meowth sat on Wobbuffet's head. "We don't know! They just came out of nowhere and attacked without warning, demanding that we hand over James to them!" Jessie exclaimed with an annoyed voice, a deep frown married to her voice.

James raised his right hand with the index finger out, although it was shaking a bit. "It all started off earlier in the day when we were flying over the city on our hot air balloon..." The blue-haired man began, comically shivering in fear upon remembering how today turned into a nightmare for him.

---

(Earlier in the day)

Jessie, James and Meowth were flying over Mauville City aboard their hot air balloon, looking down below for the twerps through binoculars. "You see any sign of the twerps and Pikachu?" Jessie questioned her teammates, searching by the balloon's right side. "Nah, don't see a wink! Where could they be?" Meowth answered, standing on the wicker basket's left side and looking through his set of binoculars.

"Keep searching! Today's the day that we'll teach those twerps a lesson!" James exclaimed with spirit, more than ready to battle the gang again and win. Jessie and Meowth both grinned at their friend's words, but before they could say anything in response; the silence of the air was broken by the sound of spinning blades. All three members of Team Rocket blinked in surprise, before they looked in the direct James is facing.

Flying towards them were multiple black helicopters, high class ones not to mention. "Huh? Helicopters?" Meowth questioned with a confused frown, lowering his binoculars. "But what could they be doing here?" James questioned as well, putting his binoculars away since he didn't need them right now. "I think the better question is why they're heading our way". Jessie said with a frown, throwing her binoculars over the right shoulder.

Right after Jessie finished speaking, suddenly white lights shot out from the helicopters' sides and took shape in the air. The lights cleared to reveal multiple Flying types such as Pidgeot, Fearow, Scyther and Crobat with them all flapping their wings to stay airborne. "Huh? What's with the horde of Flying Pokémon?" Jessie questioned with a frown, right before she and her teammates cried out in comically surprise as the Flying types all unleashed a barrage of Air Slash attacks at them.

"We're being attacked! Battle stations!" Meowth exclaimed, reaching down underneath the wicker basket and pulled out an army hat before placing it on. "Wobbuffet, send them all back with Mirror Coat!" Jessie commanded, throwing her right hand out into the air. A bright light erupted out of Jessie's pockets and hit the wicker basket's railing right next to Meowth.

It took shape, and then cleared to reveal Wobbuffet. "Wobbuffet!" The Psychic type exclaimed, giving a salute with his right hand right before his body becomes surrounded in a white reflective aura. All the Air Slashes stopped a mere inch away from Wobbuffet and Team Rocket, before they redirected themselves and shot out like a bullet towards the horde of Flying types.

Most struck and others missed, but more than half of the Flying Pokémon horde was hit and was knocked out. A good few Pidgeot, Fearow, Scyther and Crobat all fell, but thankfully fell on nearby rooftops. "I don't know where you get off attacking us out of the blue like that, but anybody that mess with us are gonna regret it!" Jessie exclaimed, holding up an enlarged Luxury Ball with her right hand while James held a Great Ball with the left hand.

"Gothorita, Shock Wave them all!" The female adult commanded, holding her Luxury Ball up. "Axew, Rock Tomb!" James ordered, holding up his Great Ball as well. Both devices burst open and released white lights with one going to Meowth's right side and the other on Wobbuffet's left. They cleared to reveal Jessie's Gothorita and James' Axew. "Gothorita!/ Axew!" The two cried out proudly, before attacking at the exact same time.

Gothorita lifted its arms above its head and formed a blue ball of electricity. It then fired blue beams of electricity from the ball. Multiple gray rocks outlined in white energy form around Axew and the Dragon type threw them forward. Shock Wave and Rock Tomb struck the remaining conscious Flying Pokémon, knocking them all out with them all falling and landing on the rooftop, unconscious.

Team Rocket and their Pokémon all laughed in triumphant at defeating all those Flying types. "Hahaha! All our training is paying right now!" James laughed with both hands pressed against his hips in a proud manner. "Beating these chumps is a single step to our overall goal; evolving all our Pokémon to their final forms and becoming as strong as we can!" Jessie exclaimed, holding out her right fist with it shaking slightly from the excitement she was feeling.

"But for now, let's see what it's like blasting someone off ourselves!" Meowth exclaimed with a wide grin, throwing his right paw into the air. "Hahaha!" Jessie and James laughed eagerly at the thought, but their laughter disappeared at the sounds of more helicopters' blades. Team Rocket, Gothorita and Axew looked, only to comically blink at seeing more helicopters joining in from out of nowhere, tripiling the numbers from before.

"Come on?! There's more of them!" Meowth anime style cried out, eyes nearly popping out of their sockets at seeing how largely outnumbered they are. "Seriously; what's going on here?! Who are these guys and why are they attacking us?" Jessie questioned with a deep frown, an expression that Gothorita matched perfectly. "I have no idea". James said with a shrug of the shoulders, before looking down at Axew with the Dragon type looking up at him.

"James!" A voice cried out from up ahead, catching Team Rocket's attention. They looked over, only for Jessie, James and Meowth to all pale terribly at what they saw. There were two helicopters ahead of the others, they had some sort of cords on them attached to a large couch that was being lifted in between them. But the thing that's filled James, Jessie and Meowth with terror was who's sitting down on it.

It was James' fiancé; Jessebelle. She looked exactly as she did when they last saw her, holding up her fan with the right hand. And the crazy lady was staring directly at James, who was whimpering at the sight of her. "J-J-J-J-Jessebelle!" The blue-haired boy cried out in pure horror, much to Axew's confusion at why he seemed so afraid right now.

"So that's what's going on right now! James's stupid rich family has come to get him back to marry that twisted woman!" Jessie exclaimed with grit teeth and her fist up, feeling a great sense of annoyance right now at the situation right now. "But how'd they even find out that we were here in Hoenn in the first place?" Meowth questioned with a deep frown, no desire to get caught up in this craziness again.

Jessebelle gave a grin, closing her fan and then held it out as if she were pointing it at James. "Now, bring me my beloved James!" Jessebelle ordered her minions, desire leaking out of Jessebelle's voice as she spoke. More white lights shot out from the helicopters' sides and took shape in the air. The lights cleared to reveal more Pidgeot, Fearow, Scyther and Crobat with them all immediately releasing Air Slash attacks at Team Rocket.

"There's too many of them! We need to fall back!" Meowth exclaimed with wide eyes, realizing that they were at a disadvantage completely right now. "I'm with you on that! We gotta get out of here as fast as we can!" James cried with pure terror in his voice, right before Air Slash struck Team Rocket's balloon and created a powerful explosion. However, this was exactly what Team Rocket wanted.

With smoke left in their balloon's destruction; Jessie, James and Meowth all flew out of it with their jetpacks. Gothorita and Axew were ridding on their trainers' backs and Wobbuffet was holding both of Meowth's feet. "This is our chance to hide for now, at least until we're in the clear!" Jessie told her teammates, turning to look at them with James and Meowth nodding to her.

Team Rocket and their Pokémon flew down to the city below to hide from the crazy lady that's after one of them.

---

(Flashback end)

"...And there you have it. That's how all of this happened". James finished, right before he, Jessie, Meowth and Wobbuffet all went back into the trash cans, grab the lids and close them. The whole gang sweat drop at them, honestly baffled that they were so quick to run away from someone. Well, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Piplup, Lucario and Jirach were the baffled ones while Ash, Brock and Pikachu were in full understanding on why they're acting like this.

"You guys really are terrified of that lady, aren't you? To be honest, I can perfectly understand why you guys are like this". Ash said, feeling a chin crawl under his skin at the mere thought of standing a few feet away from James' crazed fiancé. "Exactly! That's why we're staying in here until they give up and leave!" Meowth exclaimed from inside his and Wobbuffet's shared trash can, keeping inside to not risk being spotted.

"I don't understand why you're even hiding in the first place. You guys fought both Team Aqua and Magma before, so how could you be scared of some woman?" Sorrel questioned with a confused frown, unable to really understand Team Rocket's fear. "That was different! They weren't really after any of us, and you haven't seen Jessebelle! So don't talk like you can understand what we're feeling!" James exclaimed from inside his trash can, causing Sorrel's sweat drop to grow a bit bigger than before.

Ash let out a deep sigh, shoulders dropped and eyes closed in a mentally exhausted way. "I am not getting roped back into this craziness again. You guys can hide as much as you want, but don't expect us to help you out". The Rainbow Hero told his old enemies, words that made May and Max look at him in surprise. "Huh? We're not gonna help them?" The youngest Maple sibling asked in surprise, honestly taken aback that his idol wasn't really willing to help.

Ash and Pikachu comically stared at Max and Jirachi with half lidded eyes. "Trust me when I say this; you don't want to get mixed up in this family trouble. The moment you get involved, you're gonna wish you stayed out of it". Ash told his young friend with a low voice, much to Max's comical fear. "Well, see ya later. Have fun trying to get away from your crazy fiancé James". The Rainbow Hero bid farewell with a wave of the right hand, before he and the others began walking away and left Team Rocket.

Jessie, James and Meowth made no attempt to stop them, just remained hiding in their trash cans. In just a few seconds; Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all stood outside the alleyway in a circle. "I'm gonna be honest; this is not how I thought today was gonna be like". Brock remarked, a deep frown married to his face as he spoke.

"Well, what do we do now? Leave straight away and continue on our way to Petalburg City?" May asked her companions what their plans are now, folding both hands behind herself. "I still want to see if Wally's here and pay a visit to Wattson before we leave. As much as I'd like to get out of here and avoid getting involved with James' family matters, I'm not leaving without seeing those two". The Rainbow Hero told them, both arms crossed with his scarf blowing slightly.

"That shouldn't be too problematic. We still got a good amount of supplies, should be just enough for us to reach Petalburg in the long run. And our Pokémon are still fully of energy". Sorrel summarized their supplies and their Pokémon's condition, looking down at his Rotom Phone that he was holding as it showed his Pokémon's conditions. One of the many things he's learned about their Rotom Phones is that it can show their Pokémon's statues kinda like in a video game. It can even help trainers with reteaching their Pokémon moves they had forgotten.

"We know where Wattson is, but Wally could be outside of Mauville City and far away right now. I don't think we have a good chance of running into him". Verity remarked, certain that boy that battled her boyfriend is out of Mauville City right now. Ash's face fell at his girlfriend's words since he couldn't argue with her on that. It honestly would be surprised if Wally was still here.

"Let's not focus on that for now guys. Let's head over to the Mauville Gym, I'm sure Wattson and Watt are there". Brock said to his friends with a small smile, wanting to take their minds off of what they can't do with what they can do. "Yeah. Maybe Ash could even battle Wattson again". Max said with an excited voice at the thought of watching another exciting battle.

The whole gang chuckled, before they took off to the Mauville City Gym with Pikachu climbing to Ash's shoulder, Verity carrying Piplup in her arms and Jirachi ridding atop of Max's head. It proved to be a little difficult to get to the Gym with all the black suited men around and avoid unwanted attention, but they managed to go undetected by Jessebelle's henchmen.

Right now; the gang was walking down the empty street leading to the Gym and before they knew it, the building was in sight. Ash and Pikachu grinned at the sight, but that was when they took notice of something right at the front of it.

Standing right in front of the Gym was Wattson and Watt, facing Wally with the green-haired boy looking at the Electric type Gym Leader with a determined face. "Wally?" Ash said in surprise at seeing him still here in Mauville and how easy it was to find him. The others heard what Ash said and looked over to see Wally was indeed there, standing across Wattson and Watt.

"Huh... Looks like we were in luck today to have run into Wally after all". Brock remarked, wondering if Wally's spent all the time here in Mauville since their last encounter. "But why's he here at Wattson's gym? You think he's here for a Gym Battle?" May asked with a curious voice, giving a small tilt of the head. She remembered Wally trying to challenge the Gym on the day they arrived, but his uncle stopped him and lost a one-sided battle to Ash.

"It has nearly been a month. That's enough time for Wally to improve at an unimaginable pace. If he's really gonna challenge Wattson's Gym, I'm not gonna stop him this time". Ash said with a fascinated expression, walking over to the three. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi blinked at the Rainbow Hero for a moment, before following his lead.

Once he was just a few feet away, Ash raised his right hand into the air and called out. "Hey! Wally, Wattson, Watt!" The Rainbow Hero cried out to the three, right before Pikachu waved his right hand as well. "Pikachu pi pika!" The Electric type exclaimed loud enough. The cries of Ash and Pikachu caught the attention of Wally, Wattson and Watt as they looked over to see the gang walking towards them.

The green-haired boy let out a gasp of heartfelt surprise at seeing Ash, while Wattson and Watt both smiled at seeing them again. "A-Ash!?" Wally uttered with wide eyes, turning to face the older boy just as Ash and his friends stopped 5 feet away. "Hey Wally, long time no see. You're looking well". The Rainbow Hero greeted his friend, getting a nervous chuckle from Wally in response.

"Ahhh, how wonderful to see you all again. Ash, doing well in your quest to earn all 8 Gym badges?" Wattson asked with a curious voice, turning around to face the gang with his assistant doing the same. "You bet I am. Not that long ago, I earned my fourth Gym badge". Ash answered with a smirk, earning a jolly laugh from the Electric type Gym Leader at hearing this.

"What are you all doing back here in Mauville City?" Watt asked with a curious voice. "We're just passing by on our way to Petalburg City. We're heading there for Ash's fifth Gym badge". Sorrel answered for his friends, resting both hands in his coat's pockets. "Ahhh, I see. Well, today's a rather crazy one for Mauville City, as I'm sure you noticed". Wattson's assistant said with an uncomfortable expression, a face that Ash, Brock and Pikachu matched.

"We noticed, alright. And I'm not getting involved in it". Ash stated, before shaking his head sideways to ride himself of those thoughts related to James' family drama. "Anyway, what were you guys just talking about? Was Wally asking for a Gym battle?" The Rainbow Hero asked with a curious voice, which Wattson gave a nod of the head. "Indeed. I had just accepted young Wally's challenge for his second Gym badge". Mauville City's Gym Leader answered, much to Ash's fascination at hearing this.

"Second? So that means Wally already has a Gym badge?" Ash said with an impressed voice, before looking over to Wally and gave a proud nod to him. "Nicely done, Wally. What Gym did you challenge and win against?" Pallet Town's top Pokémon Trainer asked his friend, wondering which Gym Leader Wally battled and defeated. He had no doubt that the Gym Leader Wally faced didn't go with their strongest Pokémon since Wally's still a new trainer.

Wally flushed in embarrassment at Ash's praise, before looking away to his right. "T-The... Dewford Town Gym. I defeated Mr. Brawly and earned the Knuckle Badge". The green-haired boy answered with a nervous voice, still not feeling confident enough to act casual with Ash. "Brawly, huh? He's a tough opponent, so well done beating him in a battle. You've must have trained hard since we last met". The Rainbow Hero praised his friend once more, walking over to Wally and placed his right hand on Wally's left shoulder.

Wally gave a startled gasp, before looking back at Ash and saw the proud look on both his and Pikachu's faces. Seeing that look from the Rainbow Hero directed at him ease Wally of some of his concerns as he gave a small smile. "T-thank you". The young boy thanked Ash, turning his gaze down to the ground in between them. "Wally, would it be alright if we watch your Gym battle? I'd like to see how much progress you've made since we last met". The Rainbow Hero requested, looking over to his traveling companions and saw them smiling at him, Pikachu and Wally.

"S-Sure... It's no problem". Wally answered with a low voice, much to Ash's joy at hearing this. He gave a nod of gratitude, before lifting his hand from Wally's shoulder and stepped back. Wally turned his gaze over to Wattson and lost the embarrassed face, replacing it with one of determination. "Mr. Wattson, can we begin our battle as soon as possible?" He asked without a shred of nervousness or uncertainty, something that surprised Ash a bit with how different he was acting.

Ash didn't know why Wally was acting so different when speaking to Wattson, but the rest of the gang, Pikachu included, knew exactly why. To Wally; Ash was the perfect example of a champion trainer and looked up to him greatly, thus why he was so nervous around him. It wasn't from uneasiness or uncertainty, Wally just didn't know how to act normal when speaking to the Rainbow Hero.

Wattson crossed both arms and gave a nod of the head to the young boy challenging him. "But of course, Wally. I'm more than ready to get our battle started straight away". The Gym Leader stated with confidence, intending to give Wally a battle he won't forget.

Wally nodded to Wattson, before looking over to the Gym's entrance. He began to walk to the door, passing Ash yet the Rainbow Hero stopped him by placing his left hand on Wally's right shoulder. The green-haired boy turned to look at Ash with a confused face, then blinked at seeing Ash smiling in a nervous way. "Wally... This Gym isn't exactly like Brawly's Gym, or any other in fact. Let's just say that the front door isn't exactly...normal". Ash explained with a nervous voice, Pikachu sweating nervously upon remembering that "ride" they all experienced when Ash challenged this Gym.

Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all sweat drop with uncomfortable faces upon remembering as well. Watt gave a sigh of relief that Wally won't experience that, while Wattson crossed both arms with a smirk. "That's right. There's more than just the front of the Gym that's been improved". The Electric type Gym Leader revealed, resulting in the whole gang comically shivering at the thought of these "improvements" he's talking about.

"Those old traps can't even compare to these new ones. So you better watch your step, there's no telling what's around the next corner". Wattson told them all with a wink of the left eye, before he began laughing joyfully as he started walking to his left. Wordlessly; Watt, Wally and the gang followed Wattson as he led them inside the Gym through a normal entrance and not the "crazy wild ride" one.

---

(Meanwhile with Team Rocket)

While Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all headed to the Mauville City Gym, things with Team Rocket had escalated to out of their control. Their hiding spot was discovered by the black suited men, got cornered completely and only managed to escape thanks to Seviper's Haze. They still got discovered by more of Jessebelle's goons and was forced to battle, but were able to defeat them and continue on their way.

It was a literal manhunt that they were subjected to, but Team Rocket refused to be hunted. Right now; they managed to escape the city to the outskirts in the forest nearby, where they hoped to escape Jessebelle's sight.

All three members were all sitting down on the ground, panting in exhaustion. James and Meowth were sitting crossed legs, while Jessie was sitting down on her knees. "Good golly woolly! I'm starting to get really ticked off right here!" Meowth exclaimed with irritation in his voice, taking a mental note to beat the crap out of whoever tipped Jessebelle off about James.

"Welcome to my world..." Jessie groaned out, before falling down to her back and started up at the sky above. "Hopefully we're far away from them now. Jessebelle can't be mad enough to chase us to the forest". James remarked, hoping that his crazed fiancé had some sanity to give up at hearing he's gone out to the wilds. Unfortunately for James, his hopes were about to go down the drain.

The silence of the forest was broken at the sounds of spinning blades. James, Jessie and Meowth all paled at the sound, right before multiple helicopters suddenly erupted from the forest. Not only that, a whole horde of black suited men all came running out and just a matter of seconds; they all surrounded Team Rocket.

Jesie, James and Meowth all quickly shot up to their feet and looked around, seeing that they were completely surrounded on all sides. "Looks like you were wrong, jimmy boy! Your lady is more insane than we thought!" Meowth exclaimed with narrowed eyes, holding his paws out to the sides right before the claws emerged from them. "I thought I had a clear understanding of just how crazy that girl is for you James, but now I'm starting to see that I wasn't anywhere close". Jessie remarked, holding her hands out with both legs slightly spread, ready to move at a moment's notice.

"You're darn right about that! Jessebelle will hunt me down to the ends of the Earth!" James exclaimed with pure terror in his voice, right before he took notice of something. He let out a gasp of horror, catching both his teammates' attention as they looked over and saw what he filled him with terror. Flying towards them were the same two helicopters that were carrying Jessebelle's couch with the crazed lady still seated upon it.

Jessebelle gave a pleased smile at James, while he comically shivered in pure terror at seeing her. "This is my nightmare come to life..." The blue-haired man uttered, certain that his life was over now that Jessebelle had him surrounded like this. "Get a grip of yourself! Look, I know that me and Meowth were jerks to you last time with your whole family drama, but this time we're not letting that psycho take you!" Jessie exclaimed, stepping up to James' right side to face her look-alike.

James turned to look at Jessie in surprise that she was willing to fight to protect him. Before he could speak to her; Meowth stepped forward to James' left side with a confident face. "We're Team Rocket, and we always look out for each other now! That's how we do things now!" The Scratch Cat Pokémon exclaimed with certainty in his voice, getting James to look at him with wide eyes as well.

They used to be so low that they were willing to use James to get rich by forcing him to marry his crazed fiancé 2 years ago, but they're not like that anymore. Now, they looked out for each other through thick and thin, that's just how much they've changed in their chase after Pikachu. Team Rocket's been through so much together that there was no way they'd abandon each other from now on.

"Jessie... Meowth... You two are the best teammates anyone could ask for!" James exclaimed in anime tears, his very heart touched by their care for him. Jessie and Meowth grinned at their blue-haired teammate. The three faced forward, just as Jessebelle's couch was lowered to the ground and gently placed there. The cables attached to the helicopters snapped, releasing the couch completely.

(Play Eden's Zero Elsie Theme)

Jessebelle placed her feet down on the ground, then stood up on her feet. The black suited men cleared a path for their lady, right as the two helicopters landed on both sides. "Hehehe, oh how I've longed to see you again, James my love". Jessebelle said with a pleased smile, holding up her fan to her face. "Yeah? Well, that makes one of us, Jessebelle! I'd rather never see you ever again!" James shot back at his fiancé with defiance, having lost his fear and terror thanks to his teammates sticking with him to fight.

"Now that's no way to speak to your wife, James". A familiar voice stated, catching Team Rocket by surprise since they recognize that voice. The helicopter on the left opened, right before both James' mother and father climbed out. Both adults were exactly the same as James last saw them, no chance despite it being 2 years since he last saw them.

"Mommy!? Daddy!?" James exclaimed in surprise, having not expected them to be here as well. "Looks like they're getting very desperate for them to come here themselves". Jessie remarked, seeing this as nothing more than an unexpected surprise that won't interfere with their goal of escaping. "Who cares about that! I say this is a perfect chance to get payback on those two for making us look like amateurs". Meowth said with an eager grin, wanting nothing more than to scratch the faces of James' parents.

James' mother and father walked over and stopped beside Jessebelle with all three of them looking directly at James. "James, enough is enough! It is time for you to return home with us, marry Jessebelle and continue the family line". James' father told his son with a strict tone, followed by him crossing both arms. "This is the best for you, James. You'll have a wonderful life with a woman that loves you". James' mother said with a soft voice, either ignorant or ignoring how Jessebelle is in no way perfect for James.

"Forget it! I am never gonna marry that mad woman ever!" James shouted at his family, aggravated that they had the nerve to say Jessebelle's perfect for him after all she's done to him and paying no mind to his feelings in the matter. "James is part of Team Rocket, therefor he's got no time to get hitched!" Jessie exclaimed, right before she and James brought out all their enlarged Luxury, Poké, Great and Ultra Balls with both hands. "You want our boy? Come and get him!" Meowth exclaimed, growling at three crazy people.

James' parents and Jessebelle all frowned at James, no acknowledgement to what Jessie and Meowth said since they could care less about them. "If you're gonna be like that James, then you leave us no choice". James' father stated, right before his wife turned to Jessebelle. "No need to hold yourself, my dear Jessebelle. Go ahead and get James". She told her "daughter-in-law" with a smile of approval, giving the greenlight to take James by force.

"With pleasure, mother". Jessebelle replied, closing her fan and then pointed at James with it. "Now everyone, subdue James and don't let him get away!" The crazy lady exclaimed, refusing to allow her fiancé to escape this time. At her words, all the black suited men brought out Ball devices, intending to beat James into submission and present him to Jessebelle.

"Is it just me, or are they ignoring me and Jessie?" Meowth questioned with an offended face at how he and Jessie are being ignored right now. "Oh, we'll teach those stuck-up rich people that we're not the same as last time!" Jessie exclaimed with an enraged expression, mentally wishing she could crack her knuckles right now yet can't. "We're gonna fight our way to freedom! Because nothing can chain Team Rocket down!" James said with anime fire in his eyes, right before he and Jessie tossed all their Luxury, Poké, Great and Ultra Balls forward.

The camera changed views to higher up in the sky above the forest, right before a big and powerful explosion went off exactly where Team Rocket began their battle for freedom. More helicopters surrounding the area flew in to assist their lady with retrieving her fiancé, causing the battle to intensify.

---

(Back with the gang/ Music end)

Meanwhile in Mauvillie City's Gym; the battle between Wally and Wattson was about to begin. Everyone was at the battlefield of the Gym, the same one that Ash and Wattson battled at. Speaking of Ash; him and the gang were sitting down at the stand benches with Ash, Verity and Max holding Pikachu, Piplup and Jirachi on their laps. Lucario was sitting down on the ground next to his trainer with all of them staring right at the battlefield.

Watt stood as the referee for this battle with two flags in hand, while Wattson stood at his side of the battlefield. Wally stood at the challenger side, his bag off and placed right beside him on his right. The green-haired boy was displaying a face full of determination for his Gym Battle, a sight that made Ash grow a proud smile. Verity and May noticed their boyfriend's proud look and couldn't help smiling at him.

"This Mauville Gym battle between the Gym Leader Wattson and challenger Wally will now begin! Each trainer is allowed the use of 3 Pokémon each, but only the challenger is allowed to substitute! The battle will be over when one side's Pokémon are unable to continue!" Watt cried out, doing his job as the referee of the battle, before raising both flags into the air. "Trainers, choose your Pokémon!" He exclaimed, giving the greenlight for both sides to send out their starting Pokémon for this battle.

"I choose you, Magnemite!" Wattson exclaimed, rearing his right hand back with an enlarged Poké Ball in hand before throwing it and releasing the device. The Poké Ball burst open and released a white light into the air that took shape, then cleared to reveal Magnemite. "Magnemite!" The Steel and Psychic type buzzed, floating above the field and staring directly at Wally.

"Magnemite, huh? Looks like Wattson isn't using the same team he used against Ash for this battle". Max remarked, both him and Jirachi blinking at Wattson's Magnemite. "It's to be expected. Wally's a trainer that started his journey this year, and Gym Leaders have this rule to not go all out on them with their strongest Pokémon". Brock explained, turning to look at the 8-year-old boy and legendary Pokémon.

Ash was silent, staring right at Wally with calculating eyes. He'd normally be a little displeased that he wasn't battling and instead watching, but the chance to see Wally's growth more than made up for it. It's been almost a month since he battled Wally in front of this Gym and easily handled him, so Ash was really eager to see how much Wally's changed since that day.

Wally spent a moment to glance up at Magnemite, before he brought an enlarged Great Ball with his right hand. "Take to the skies, Fletchinder!" The green-haired boy cried out, holding the Great Ball out right before it burst open and released a white beam. It struck the ground, took shape and then cleared to reveal Wally's Pokémon.

It's an avian Pokémon with predominantly orange and black plumage. It has a sharp, black beak, black eyes with yellow, mask-like markings behind them, and a small, pointed crest on the back of its head. Its upper side is reddish-orange and its belly is gray. There is a flame pattern on its breast where the two colors meet. The tips and undersides of its pointed, black wings are yellow. Its legs are also black with sharp talons and two toes facing forward and one back. Two white, V-shaped markings are located near the tip of its long black tail-feathers. Its tail ended in two points and has another feather sticking out of the base on each side, resembling the fletching on the end of an arrow.

"Fletchinder!" Fletchinder cried out proudly, spreading both its wings out. "What's that Pokémon?" May asked with a curious tone, having never seen that Pokémon before in her life. "That's a Fletchinder, a Pokémon from the Kalos Region". Sorrel answered the brunette, revealing the name of Wally's Pokémon that he's using right now. "I'm surprised Wally has a Pokémon like that here in Hoenn". Verity commented, wondering where Wally caught that Pokémon.

Ash stared at Fletchinder with fascination, before he placed his left hand in his jacket's pocket. The Rainbow Hero brought out his Rotom Phone, pointed it at Fletchinder and scanned it. "Fletchinder, the Ember Pokémon. Once in flight, Fletchinder can reach its top speed extremely quickly, giving it the edge in battle by attacking is opponents before they can get prepared". The Rotom Phone spoke, displaying an image of Fletchinder and its type.

Ash gave a small grin, before lowering his left hand and stared at Fletchinder again. "What a cool Pokémon... Maybe I'll get myself one myself one day". The Rainbow Hero said with interest, taking a mental note to one day capture Fletchinder or its previous stage one day. "Wally's playing it a bit dangerously. Fletchinder is both a Fire and Flying type, so it has the advantage and disadvantage against Magnemite. This'll be fun to watch". Sorrel said with a small grin, feeling a bit excited himself.

"Let the match begin!" Watt exclaimed, throwing both hands and flags into the air to officially start the match.

(Wattson, Magnemite + 2 more VS Wally, Fletchinder + 2 more)

"Magnemite, let's start this off with Thunderbolt!" Wattson commanded, throwing his left hand out. "Magnemite!" The Steel and Electric type cried out, releasing a powerful bolt of yellow from its body. "Fletchinder, take flight and counter with Fire Blast!" Wally cried out, rearing his right hand to his left and threw it out to the side.

"Fletchinder!" The Blaze Pokémon cried out, spreading its wings and took flight. Fletchinder then released a powerful stream of red-yellow fire from its mouth. As the flame traveled, the front of the flame formed into a 大-shaped blast. Fire Blast and Thunderbolt clashed and created a big explosion in the air, a sight that Verity gave a small whistle at.

This Gym battle, while not as high leveled as one of Ash's Gym battles, was still gonna prove to be intense and exciting to watch. And the gang had a front row seat to watch it.

---

(Back with Team Rocket/ Play Space Devil Boy Ost)

Kaboom!

In the forests near Mauville City; an intense battle was going on between Team Rocket and Jessebelle's henchmen. Team Rocket wasted nothing and went all out; releasing Seviper, Wobbuffet, Dustox, Trubbish, Gothorita, Cacturne, Axew, Parasect and Steelix. Jessebelle's men sent out various Pokémon like Pidgeot, Fearow, Scyther, Pinsir, Ninetails, Machamp, Rhydon and Snorlax to battle them.

The forest had been turned into a "war zone" between these two forces. Fortunately, no wild Pokémon got caught up and instead ran from the battle. Despite being outnumbered, Team Rocket battled hard and was winning in this battle. Team Rocket's various battles with the gang, their training and determination to win was showing its worth as they decimated Jessebelle's forces.

Steelix let out a growl as it slammed an Iron Tail attack on a few Fearow, Pinsir and Machamp. Seviper hissed as it sliced the air with Poison Tail, striking a Ninetails, Scyther and Pidgeot at the same time. Dustox gave a cry, spraying Stun Spore on a Rhydon, Pidgeot and Snorlax right before Parasect hit the three with a Hyper Beam attack.

Trubbish yelled out, before hitting more Rhydon, Pinsir and Snorlax with Seed Bomb. Gothorita gave a twirl, then unleashed Psyshock on Machamp, Ninetails and Pideot. Cacturne leaped, then socked a Rhydon on the left cheek with a Needle Arm, before going over it and fired Pin Missile at a Snorlax and Fearow.

Meowth started laughing as he leaped up into the air, before holding up both paws. "Hahaha! This what happens when you mess with us, Team Rocket! Now, have a good taste of my Shadow Claw!" The Scratch Cat Pokémon laughed out, right before his paws became surrounded by a black aura with purple outlines. The aura then takes the form of a claws, right before dived down and swung its claws.

Kapow! Blam!

Meowth landed direct hits on a Rhydon and Scyther, dealing a great amount of damage to them as they collapsed to their backs with swirls in their eyes. Meowth wasn't done just yet; he landed on his feet right before the aura claws disappeared and the Scratch Cat Pokémon leaped into the air above a Snorlax. The Sleeping Pokémon gazed up at the airborne Meowth, before crying out and released an orange Hyper Beam at Meowth.

"Ha!" Meowth dodged the Hyper Beam successfully, before he began diving down towards Snorlax. "Nice try, big guy! Now, chew on my Night Slash!" The Scratch Cat Pokémon exclaimed, right before creating a purple energy sword in the palm of one of his left hand. Meowth grabbed it with his right paw, gave a cry as he reared it back and then swung it down, slamming it hard on Snorlax's head.

Kablam!

The sound of impact was loud and clear for anybody to see. Snorlax's body shivered from the direct it, right before the Normal type collapsed to its back, kicking up a bit of dust. "Snor...lax". Snorlax groaned out with swirly eyes, unable to battle anymore from that clean and powerful hit to the head. Meowth stood atop the unconscious Snorlax, chuckling with an evil grin as he tapped his purple energy sword on his left paw gently.

Jessie was busy herself. The black suited men had the idea to try to hold her down to make James surrender himself , but they didn't account for Jessie to actually have some skill to fend them off. Despite the setbacks of Team Rocket's quest to steal Pikachu, Jessie was still an athletic woman that's been working on her body through the traveling, training and robot working. Combine all that with her training from Team Rocket; she's a dangerous woman even without Pokémon.

A single black suited man charged forward with a war cry, but Jessie, quick as a flash, rammed a karate chop with her right hand right into the guy's face and blasted him off his feet. Another one charged at Jessie, only to get a swipe kick to the face, sending him spinning before he fell to the ground unconscious.

Another black suited guy charged at Jessie, but she saw him coming and slammed her right fist into the guy's gut and pushed him off his feet. Jessie quickly turned around and uppercut some other chump that tried to get the jump on her, sending him blasting off his feet. Jessie took a pose, raising her right hand into a karate chop, before she spun around and slammed it into another guy's face, sending him flying.

She looked to her left, bended her knees and reared her right hand back. Right as another guy was about to reach her, Jessie turned and rammed her right elbow into the guy, knocking him off balance and collapsing to the ground unconscious. Jessie stood up straight, looked down at the unconscious men she knocked out and gave a scoff. "These chumps are the so called "elite" bodyguards money can buy? It's honestly terrible what passes for "elite" these days". The female adult stated with an unimpressed look, right before she closed both eyes, spun around and swung her right leg out, slamming it right into another nameless black suited men that tried to get her.

As for James; he stood in the middle of this ongoing battlefield with Axew standing right in front of them. The two were standing 10 feet away from Jessebelle, who had a deep frown displayed at her fiancé. "Oh, James... Why must you be so difficult? All of this could have been avoided if you never ran away and married me. We would have been so happy, but instead you wasted your time joining a circus and chasing after a bunch of kids". The crazy lady said with a disappointed face, still living in a delusion that her and James could be together.

"I AM happy! Living my life free from the high class and especially you!" James exclaimed with narrowed eyes, before pointing directly at her with his left hand's index finger. "I will NEVER marry you, Jessebelle, no matter what you do! I choose the low life of Team Rocket over the high life of nobility!" The blue-haired boy told his fiancé, speaking with a strong voice to match his resolve. "Axew ax axew!" Axew cried out with narrowed eyes, more than ready to battle to protect his trainer from this woman.

(Music end)

Jessebelle gave an unhappy frown at James' words, now beginning to get annoyed with his defiance. "I told you before that you can't do what you want anymore. You'll obey me James, even if that means I have to take you by force". The red-haired woman said with a displeased voice, right before she suddenly tossed an enlarged Poké Ball out. "I choose you, Vileplume!" Jessebelle cried out, right before the device burst open and released a bright white light.

It struck the ground and cleared to reveal Jessebelle's Vileplume. "Vileplume!" The Grass and Poison type cried out full of energy. "Vileplume, stun them with Stun Spore!" Jessebelle commanded, holding her closed up fan out as if she were pointing forward. Jessebelle's Vileplume gave a cry and releases a sparkling orange powder with white sparkles in it from the hole on its head at Axew.

(Play Eden's Zero Weisz Theme)

"Blow right through that with your Rock Tomb, Axew!" James ordered, thrusting his right fist out. "Axew!" Axew cried out, right before multiple gray rocks outlined in white energy formed around Axew and the Dragon type threw them forward. The gray rocks blew right thrower the powder and continued onto Vileplume, landing direct hits that pushed the Grass and Poison type off its feet.

"Vile!" Veilplume gasped, crashing down to the ground on its back in front of Jessebelle with her gazing down at it in surprise. "Oh, Vileplume!" The red-haired female said with wide eyes, honestly taken back by what just happened. "Now while they down for now, use Focus Energy to power up!" James ordered, throwing his left hand out once more.

"Axew!" The Dragon type roared, right before its body became briefly covered in an orange glow, powering its attacks. "Vileplume, get back up and use Petal Dance!" Jessebelle commanded with irritation in her voice. "Vileplume!" The Grass and Poison type cried out in response, jumping back up to its feet. Vileplume stretched the opening on its flower at Axew and release pink petals in a spiraling fashion at him.

"Use Dragon Claw to slice your way through and attack!" James commanded, holding his right hand out in a claw fashion. "Axew!" The Tusk Pokémon exclaimed, holding up both claws became surrounded in a light green, claw-shaped aura. "Ax ax!" Axew gave a cry, charging forward and began slicing the air in front of him without rest and began cutting through the spiraling Petal Dance.

Jessebelle gasped in surprise at seeing this, while Vileplume widen its eyes. Axew drew closer by the second, until it was right in front of Vileplume and landed a double Dragon Claw on the Grass and Poison type in an "X" shape slash. The Poison and Grass type shut its eyes and gave a cry as it was blasted off its feet, passing Jessebelle. It rammed down hard on the ground and slide against it for a bit, before eventually stopping.

"Vileplume, what are you doing?! Get up and teach that stupid lizard a lesson!" Jessebelle snapped at her Grass and Poison type, growing more irritated by the second because of how she's losing to James. "Don't you dare talk that way about my Pokémon, Jessebelle! The one person to blame for your losing is yourself!" James snapped at the crazy woman, grabbing Jessebelle's attention as she looked over to him.

"From what I've remembered, your parents gave you that Vileplume because you wanted a cute Pokémon! You've never done any training with it, your parents had their butlers train that Vileplume and even evolved it for you! You've never put any hard work into training it, and now you're gonna regret it!" The blue-haired adult exclaimed, before pointing forward with his left hand's index finger. "Axew, finish it with Slash attack!" James ordered his Tusk Pokémon, having enough playing around with this nonsense.

"Ew ax Axew!" Axew gave a cry; the light green, claw-shaped aura disappearing before it charged at the down Poison and Grass type. "Vileplume, I order you to use Sludge Bomb right now!" Jessebelle ordered with pure annoyance and irritation in her voice, greatly angered by what James just said.

"Vile..." Vileplume groaned as it sat up, but was too late as Axew leaped towards it and slashed the Poison and Grass type with Slash. It landed a direct critical hit with Slash attack, leaving scratch marks on its face. Axew landed on its feet right in front of its opponent, while Vileplume collapsed to its back, kicking a bit of dust. James' Tusk Pokémon looked over and saw Vileplume had swirly eyes.

Jessebelle let out a gasp of pure shock at seeing this, even dropping her fan unintentionally. James, on the other hand, grinned with pride at seeing Axew's flawless victory against Jessebelle's Vileplume. "Ha ha ha! Well done, Axew! You just made this the best part of today!" The former rich boy exclaimed with pure delight in his voice, catching Axew's attention.

The Tusk Pokémon turned around to look at its trainer with a wide, happy smile. "Axew ex!" Axew cried with both arms up in the air and eyes closed in a joyous manner. Suddenly without warning; Axew started glowing a bright white light that covered its features from view completely. James gasped in pure joy with a wide smile at seeing this, having seen it so many times that he knows exactly what's happening; Axew is evolving.

The bright light covered dragon began growing taller with its tusks growing as well. It even grew a tail as well. After a few moments of growing, the bright light cleared to reveal Axew's new form. It is a bipedal, draconic Pokémon with long, gray tusks with red tips protruding from the sides of its mouth. These tusks are capable of breaking boulders. It has dark eyes with red irises, a gray face, and a cowl-like feature of green segments on its head, neck, back, and chest. Its arms have three red fingers, and its lower body is gray, with red speckles on the underbelly. It has red toes and a red tip on its tail.

"Fraxure!" The Axe Jaw Pokémon roared out with fresh new energy from evolving just now. "Ahhh! Axew, you've evolved at last!" James exclaimed in delight, bringing out his team's Rotom Phone and scanned his newly evolved Pokémon with it. "Fraxure, the Axe Jaw Pokémon and the evolve form of Axew. Fraxure are very violent and territorial. Fights over turf often break out between it and another Fraxure. After a fight, it sharpens its tusks on river rocks, as they do not regenerate. It lives alongside rivers". The device spoke, showing an image of Fraxure and its type.

James nodded in approval, before putting the device away in his pocket. "Fraxure!" Fraxure exclaimed, running up and stopped in front of James with them both looking at each other's eyes. "You've truly made this part of today something memorable that I'll never regret! I'll be sure to award you big time!" The former rich boy told his beloved Dragon type, rubbing Fraxure's head with his right hand.

The Axe Jaw Pokémon smiled up at his trainer, proud of himself for receiving such praise. The two turned their gaze over to Jessebelle and saw she had her back to them and was staring at her unconscious Vileplume. The crazy woman had a face full of child-like rage at how she was defeated so easily by James. It was taking all she had not to let control and act in an undignified manner, something she had been raised to never do ever.

"Lady Jessebelle!" Someone suddenly cried out, catching the attention of James and Fraxure. They looked over to see a single black suited man and a Rhydon running towards them. "Rhydon, Horn Attack now!" The nameless man commanded his Drill Pokémon, glaring right as James with anger and hate. Rhydon let out a roar, before charging at James and Fraxure with the intention to hit them with its horn.

James narrowed his eyes, before giving a small grin since he realized this was a perfect chance for Fraxure to test out his new move. "Fraxure! Go forth and use your now move; Trailblaze!" The blue-haired man ordered, throwing his left hand out. The Axe Jaw Pokémon grinned, before suddenly moving rapidly towards the Drill Pokémon in a zigzag motion. Fraxure was moving too fast for Rhydon to think of a counter as the Dragon type rammed into its stomach in a tackle.

Rhydon let out a gasp from the super effective hit, taking a step or two back from Fraxure, followed by collapsing on its back. "Fraxure!" The Dragon type roared out with pride from seeing his newly evolved strength. James gave a grin at the sight, before he looked over to see that same black suited man charging towards him. James narrowed his eyes at seeing this, preparing to take a stance but blinked at seeing something.

In the black suited man's view, a leg with a black boot came out of nowhere and slammed right into his face. The nameless man was knocked off his feet and sent backward spinning until he crashed down on the ground on his back, unconscious. James blinked at the unconscious man for a moment, before looking over to his helper; Jessie.

The female adult was standing 5 feet away, looking at her teammate with a small grin. "I had him". James told Jessie, though he didn't look annoyed whatsoever and instead smiling at her. "Sure you did, but you were just too slow". She stated, before looking over to Jessebelle and was able to see the frustrated face she was displaying from her angle.

"You must have gotten on her nerves big time if she's making a face like that". Jessie remarked, before gazing over to Fraxure and gave a wink at it. "Looks like something good did come from this family drama. Your Axew finally evolved". The female adult said with a nod of approval at her teammate's fortune of his last unevolved Pokémon finally evolving after so long.

James gave a grin at his teammate, before giving the thumbs up with his left hand. Jessie returned it, then began walking over and joined James' side. At that moment, Jessebelle turned around and opened her mouth to speak, but stopped herself upon seeing James and Jessie together. She grew a jealous frown at the sight of the two together and how happier James seemed with Jessie.

Jessebelle grit her teeth in jealousy at the sight, wondering what exactly it was that made her and Jessie so different. She was rich, graceful and beautiful, a "perfect" catch, while that woman was uncivilized, poor and dirty in her appearance. So why was it that James seemed so much happier with her?! To Jessebelle, it was completely unfair after all she had gone through to be James' wife.

Jessebelle was knocked out of her thoughts at the cries of Team Rocket's third member. "Oi Jess and Jimmy boy!" Meowth shouted out, grabbing the attention of Jessie, James and Fraxure as they looked over just in time to see him unleash a Fury Swipe barrage on a Machamp. "A little help would be appreciated!" The Scratch Cat Pokémon stated, right as Steelix unleashed a Dragon Breath attack and caused an explosion.

James, Jessie and Fraxure all grinned at their teammate, before all three of them nodded. They all cried out and took off to the huge battle going on right now, leaving Jessebelle alone with her unconscious Pokémon, all the while she watches James and Jessie in jealousy.

---

(Back at the Mauville Gym/ Music end)

While Team Rocket continued their battle against Jessebelle and her henchmen, the Gym Battle between Wally and Wattson continued fiercely with Watt doing his job, and the gang watching with interest.

The first battle between Fletchinder and Magnemite had ended with Fletchinder's defeat. Wally recalled his defeated Blaze Pokémon, then sent out a female Gible to battle next, much to Verity's fascination. Wally's Gible turned out to be very strong as it defeated Magnemite and Wattson's next Pokémon, Voltorb, leaving Wattson with only one Pokemon left while Wally still had two.

Right now; Wattson had just recalled his defeated Voltorb, leaving his side of the field empty. Wally stood on his corner with his Gible standing 5 feet away from him. Watt was still standing at the referee section of the battlefield and the gang hasn't moved a single bit from their spot on the stand benches. And right now; they were commenting on the battle.

"Wally's really grown much since we last saw him. His Fletchinder may have lost, but it was still very strong. And Wally's Gible is proving to be a powerhouse". Ash said with a small grin, enjoying himself greatly since Wally's making this battle very interesting. "You can say that again. That Gible is gonna be one heck of a Garchomp one day". Verity remarked, slowly stroking Piplup's head in a comforting way that made the Penguin Pokémon close her eyes in bliss.

"Wattson's battling style is different with Magnemite and Voltorb. Still, I wonder what his last Pokémon will be". Sorrel said with a curious voice, wondering if Wattson will use one of the Pokémon he used against Ash or not. "Watt said that Wattson used Magnemite, Voltorb and Magneton against Brendan, so maybe he'll use a Magneton". Max commented, recalling that whole battle Watt told them about between Wattson and Brendan when they first met. "Let's wait and see ourselves". Brock said with a low voice and both arms crossed. The Pokémon remained silent, carefully watching the battle.

Wattson gave Wally a proud grin, truly impressed with this young boy before him. "I must admit; you're a very impressive trainer young Wally. Trainers that I battle are ones that already have 2 badges. Yet here you are, a trainer with only one badge, and has forced me to my last Pokémon. You truly do have potential". The Mauville Gym Leader said with a pleased voice, truly amazed with Wally's skills.

Wally flushed a bit from Wattson's praise, but still bowed his head to the older man. "Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Wattson". The green-haired boy thanked his opponent, honestly baffled that a Gym Leader of all people says he has potential. Wattson gave a chuckle at his young opponent, before holding an enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand.

"This is the last obstacle to your prize. But let me warn you now, this Pokémon isn't like my Magnemite or Voltorb!" The Gym Leader told his young opponent, speaking with utter confident. "...!" Wally narrowed his eyes, mentally preparing himself for this tough challenge. "Gib...!" Wally's Gible let out a low growl, ready for battle against whatever Wattson sends out next.

"I choose you! Manectric!" Wattson cried out with energy, tossing his Poké Ball into the air. Once high enough; the device burst open and released a bright white light that went and struck the ground, kicking up a large bit of dust. The light took shape, then cleared to reveal Wattson's ace Pokémon; Manectric. "Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon roared out with sparks of electricity briefly appearing around it.

(Eden's Zero Jin Theme)

"Oh boy... Wally's in for it now". Ash remarked with wide eyes at the sight of Manectric, fully aware that it was a sign that Wattson isn't holding anything back anymore. "Wally must have impressed Wattson enough for him to use his best Pokémon. I hope he'll be okay". May said in concern for their friend, clapping her hands together in a sort of prayer for Wally. 'You can do it Wally!' Jirachi shouted out in encouragement for Wally, getting a small smile from Max.

Wally had broken into a nervous sweat at Manectric, but didn't show any signs of surrendering. "No matter what I face, I will not surrender! Gible, Sand Attack!" The green-haired boy commanded, throwing his right hand out. "Gible!" The Dragon and Ground type roared, before using its claws to throw sand at Manectric.

"That trick won't work this time, Wally. Manectric, use Rain Dance!" Wattson commanded, throwing his left hand out. "Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon raised its head and howls towards the sky. Dark clouds appeared out of nowhere above the field, right before it started to rain. The sand that Gible threw became wet and heavy, before falling to the ground right before it could get to Manectric.

"I hate it when this happens". May groaned out, holding both hands over her head to keep her hair from getting wet. "I, on the other hand, love it when someone uses Rain Dance. The feeling of the rain is so soft and refreshing". Verity said with a pleased smile, eyes closed in a happy way. "Piplup pip piplup". Piplup said with a face of peace, enjoying the rain herself.

Wally lightly grit his teeth in frustration at seeing Sand Attack fail, but wasn't ready to give up just yet. "We still have 3 options left! Gible, go and attack with Dragon Rush!" The green-haired boy commanded, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger. "Gible!" Gible cried out, charging forward and released a blue, dragon-shaped energy that covers its body completely.

"Use Double Team, now!" Wattson commanded with a confident voice, crossing both arms as he spoke. Manectric gave a growl in response, right before it flashed for a moment and created four copies of itself. Gible widened its eyes in surprise, yet kept charging and headed right for the middle Manectric. It ran right into it, but that Manectric turned out to only be a copy as Gible ran right past.

Gible gave a startled cry as the blue, dragon-shaped energy disappeared completely before it tripped over its feet and collapsed, sliding against the ground a bit. "Gible!?" Wally cried out with wide eyes full of concern. "Now Manectric, use Ice Fang!" Wattson commanded with pure confidence in his voice, seeing this as the perfect to obtain victory.

The Manectric copies disappeared and only the far left one was left, revealing that it was the real one. "Manectric!" Manectric exclaimed, turning around fully with its fangs becoming covered in light blue, icy energy. The Electric type then leaped at and bite down hard on Gible's fin with Ice Fang. Gible shouted out in pain with sparks of icy blue coming out, right before an explosion suddenly went off and covered both Pokémon from view.

"Gible!" Wally exclaimed in deep concern, staring at the large cloud of smoke that was covering his Gible from view. After just a few moments, the smoke cloud cleared to reveal Manectric unharmed and standing right beside the unconscious form of Wally's Gible.

Watt looked closely for a moment or two, before facing forward. "Gible is unable to battle! Manectric wins!" The referee for the battle cried out, raising the red flag to signify Manectric's victory. Wally breathed out in disbelief, while Wattson grinned as Manectric walked over to him and turned around.

(Music end)

"Well, that was quick". Brock commented with a small frown, honestly expecting Gible to have done a bit more than that. "To be fair, Gible must have been worn out after battling two opponents without a break. It must have been a bit tired". Verity said with a small tilt of the head, certain that Gible lost only because it was a bit exhausted. "Manectric's moves have changed since I battled it. Ice Fang is especially a good counter for Ground types". Ash said with slightly narrowed eyes, gently stroking Pikachu's right ear.

"Now Wally's down to one Pokémon and Manectric hasn't taken a single bit of damage yet. This is not good". Max said with concern leaking out of his voice. At Max's words, Sorrel grew a small grin since he realized something. "This situation is where a trainer puts their everything into the battle, their very heat itself. Wally's gonna put everything into this last battle, and so will his final Pokémon". The Veilstone boy said with certainty, both hands slightly turning into fists from the excitement he was feeling.

Ash, Verity, Lucario, Pikachu and Piplup all grinned since they realized Sorrel was right. 'Come on Wally... Show me your very spirit as a trainer'. The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, growing excited since this was the moment trainers give it their everything in the battle.

Wally recalled his female Gible to its Great Ball, before looking at the device in his right hand with an appreciated smile. "Thank you for everything Gible, rest now. You deserved it". The green-haired boy said softly, kneeling down and placed his Great Ball away in the bag. He stood back up on his feet and gazed over to Wattson with narrowed eyes full of resolve.

"This is it, my young friend. The biggest and most important moment in a battle, where you have everything to lose! So, give it everything you have without holding back!" Wattson told the young challenger before him, which Wally gave a nod of the head. "I understand sir! I'm gonna give it my all and win this battle!" Wally exclaimed with pure resolve, something that brought a grin to Wattson's face.

Wally placed his right hand into his pants' pocket, then brought out a shrunken Poké Ball with his right hand. He tapped the center, causing the device to enlarge before looking down at it with a fierce gaze. He turned his gaze over to Ash and stared at him for a moment, something that the Rainbow Hero noticed and gave an encouraging nod to him. Wally returned the nod with a smile, before facing forward. He took a familiar stance by holding the Poké Ball out and held his left fist up.

"It's all on you now..." He began, moving his left fist up and right hand reared back in a stance to throw the device out. "I'm counting on you... Gallade!" Wally shouted out, throwing the Poké Ball out with all his strength. The device soared through the air, before bursting open and released a white light that went and struck the ground, kicking up dust. It took shape, then cleared to reveal the Blade Pokémon; Gallade. "Gallade!" The Psychic and Fighting type cried out with resolve, throwing both hands out and released a small, yet powerful gust of wind.

The whole gang was a bit surprised to see Wally using a Gallade and immediately knew that it was the same Ralts that Ash battled with Grovyle. "Well, this is surprising. I expected Wally's Ralts to have evolved to its second stage, but it is mind blowing to see it's already a Gallade". Verity said with wide eyes of surprise at seeing Wally's starter now a Gallade. "You can say that again. Where did he even find a Dawn Stone to evolve it anyway?" Brock questioned with a small frown, remembering how male Kirlia need Dawn Stones to evolve.

May was silent as she stared at Wally's Gallade, but she spotted something with her right eye. She looked over to see Ash was grinning with amazement, much to her wonder. "Ash? Why are you smiling like that?" The brunette questioned her boyfriend, but Ash didn't so much as turn to look at her and continued staring at Wally and his Gallade. Pikachu looked up at his best friend with wonder, before noticing the look in Ash's eyes and gave a small smile since he knew why he seemed so amazed.

All of a sudden, Ash placed his right hand in his pants' pocket and brought out an enlarged Poké Ball. It suddenly opened and released a white light that struck the ground right beside Ash on his right. It took shape, then cleared to reveal Grovyle with the Grass type grinning. "Grovyle". The Wood Gecko Pokémon said with confidence, before bringing out his twig and placed it in his mouth.

"Grovyle, look over there". The Rainbow Hero told his Wood Gecko Pokémon, pointing over to Wally and Gallade. "Gro?" Grovyle looked over, only to blink in surprise at seeing Wally and Gallade. He recognized the boy from the battle in front of Mauville City's Gym a while ago and knew Gallade because of the one that Ash has back home so he knew immediately that the Blade Pokémon he's seeing is the Ralts he battled against.

Ash saw Grovyle recognizing the two and gave a small grin. "Wally and his Ralts look like they've been training hard since we last saw them. Wally's Ralts even beat you in reaching his final stage as a Gallade. I figured you'd like to watch since you two did battle one another in the past". The Rainbow Hero explained to Grovyle, turning his gaze back to the battle taking place.

Wally's Gallade took notice of Grovyle staring at him from his right eye. The Blade Pokémon slightly turned its head and narrowed its right eye at the Wood Gecko Pokémon that he lost so badly to when they first met. That humiliating defeat had become a drive for Gallade to grow stronger to someday defeat Grovyle. So, seeing him still a Grovyle while he's a fully evolved Pokémon now filled Gallade with confidence that he can defeat his archrival one day.

Grovyle noticed Gallade gazing at him and slightly narrowed his eyes. Truth be told; Grovyle hasn't thought much of that Ralts he battled against much since that day. He did every now and then, but Grovyle's main focus has been on training to reach the level of the stronger Pokémon of Ash's team like Charizard, Snorlax, Dragonite and especially Latios. He's been training with both older and newer members of the team for that goal, but still had a ways to go since he still lost to a few others.

But now seeing that same Ralts he easily defeated a Gallade that's standing with pride filled Grovyle with fascination. He recognized that look in Gallade's eye since he himself had that look when gazing at Ash's stronger Pokémon. Thus, the Wood Gecko Pokémon decided to watch this battle and see if that Gallade actually had what it takes to become a rival for him to compete against or not.

(Play Ash and Goh/Satoshi and Go - Pocket Monsters Original Soundtrack)

Gallade faced forward and made eye contact with Manectric, both Pokémon ready to begin this battle and give it their all. "Thunder!" Wattson cried out with a voice full of spirit and excitement. The Discharge Pokémon let out a fierce roar, causing a bolt of lightning to fall down from the sky down towards Gallade.

The Blade Pokémon gazed up at the bolt of lightning, while Wally acted right away. "Gallade, use Psychic to stop Thunder!" The green-haired boy ordered, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger. Gallade's eyes immediately glow light blue, right before the bolt of lightning gained a blue outline and stopped dead in its tracks. "Impressive... To be able to stop Manectric's Thunder like that, but there's more where that came from. Manectric, jump into the Thunder!" Wattson commanded, much to Max's surprise at the rather absurd command.

"Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon exclaimed, taking off into a run and then jumped into the frozen bolt of thunder. No damage was dealt at all to Manectric, instead the bolt of thunder was absorbed into the Discharge Pokémon fully without harm. "It has Lightning Rod?!" Wally gasped in surprise, honestly surprised since he didn't think that Manectric had that ability.

Manectric fell and landed 5 feet away from Gallade. The Blade Pokémon's eyes ceased glowing, but he did grit his teeth. "Stay calm Gallade, we still have a chance here! Use Swords Dance!" Wally commanded, throwing his right hand out. "Gallade gal!" Gallade responded, forearms glowing light purple and the backs began growing longer. Then, he moves them around in a hypnotizing way.

"Swords Dance, huh? So, you're increasing Gallade's attack power to match Manectric's increase in power. Let's see how that goes. Ice Fang!" Wattson commanded, throwing his right arm out. "Manectric!" Manectric exclaimed, fangs becoming covered in light blue, icy energy. The Discharge Pokémon took off into a charge towards Gallade, intending to bit him.

"Gallade, fight back with your Psycho Cut attack!" Wally commanded, throwing his left hand out and holding up the right fist. "Gallade! Gal gallade!" The Blade Pokémon cried out, forearms glowing purple and both of them grow and extended in the back. Gallade then swung his arms repeatedly and purple crescent blades of energy come out of them.

The purple crescent blades sliced through the air to Manectric, yet the Electric type moved side to side and dodged them successfully. Once close enough; the Discharge Pokémon leaped at Gallade and bite down hard on its left glowing forearm. Gallade grit his teeth in pain from the Ice Fang attack, while Wally narrowed his eyes. "Manectric's close, now's our chance! Use Low Sweep!" The green-haired boy commanded, throwing his left hand out to the side.

"Gallade gal!" Gallade exclaimed, lifting his right leg before moving it fast like lightning and struck Manectric's left back leg. "Ma!" The Discharge Pokémon flinched from the hit, before letting go with Ice Fang disappearing. Gallade spun around and slammed its left leg into Manectric's stomach, sending it flying into the air.

The airborne Electric type back flipped once it started falling and landed on all four feet. Gallade lowered his left leg and placed it down on the ground, before holding up both arms with the forearms still glowing purple. Suddenly; the rain ceased with the black clouds hovering the battlefield disappearing as well. "Well, at least it has stopped raining". Brock remarked, looking up at the celling of the battlefield. "Don't count on it". Verity stated, looking over to Wattson and saw him grinning.

"Manectric, Rain Dance one more time". The Electric type Gym Leader commanded, pointing upwards with his right hand's index finger. "Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon raised its head and howls towards the sky. Dark clouds appeared out of nowhere above the field, right before it started to rain. May groaned at it raining again, but didn't complain since it was part of a move.

"Now, unleash a barrage of Thunder attacks!" Wattson exclaimed with a confident grin, holding his right hand out dramatically. The Discharge Pokémon let out a fierce roar, right before multiple bots of lightning began to rain down from the cloud above, heading towards Gallade. "Dodge it!" Wally ordered, a commanded that Gallade was happy to obey as it began back leaping, dodging the bolts of thunder.

After back flipping for a few moments, before landing on his feet and began running towards Manectric all the while the bolts of thunder kept trying to strike. "Low Sweep, one more time!" Wally ordered, throwing his right hand out. "Gallade!" The Blade Pokémon responded, increasing his speed and heading right for the Discharge Pokémon.

"Double Team, now!" Wattson commanded with a confident voice, crossing both arms as he spoke. Manectric gave a growl in response, right before it flashed for a moment and created four copies of itself. Wally grit his teeth at seeing this, before blinking upon thinking of an idea. "Gallade, jump over them!" Wally commanded his starter, much to the curiosity of everyone at hearing.

Having full trust in his trainer; Gallade obeyed without question. "Gallade!" The Psychic and Fighting type cried out, leaping into the air and over the four copes of Manectric. All four copies gazed up in surprise, right before a bolt of lightning came down from the clouds up above. Without warning; it shifted over and struck the far right Manectric, getting absorbed by Manectric's Lightning Rod ability.

That, however, was what Wally wanted to happen. The green-haired boy grinned, then threw his left hand out. "Now, Psycho Cut!" The boy commanded, causing Wattson to widen his eyes upon realizing what Wally's was all along. Gallade landed on his feet, facing Manectric's back with a grin as his forearms began glowing purple and both of them grow and extended in the back.

"Gallade!" The Blade Pokémon exclaimed, began swinging his arms repeatedly and unleashed purple crescent blades of energy at Manectric. Psycho Cut's barrage struck and multiple explosions went off upon striking the Discharge Pokémon. "Nicely done. Using Manectric's ability like that to find the real one, then attack. Smart thinking of Wally to use Manectric's own move against it". Ash said with an impressed grin, one that Grovyle matched perfectly.

"Landed a direct hit, but Wattson's Manectric isn't out of the battle just yet". Sorrel stated, right as the smoke cleared to show that Wattson's Discharge Pokémon was still standing despite the Psycho Cut hit. "Ma...!" Manectric turned around and glared at Gallade, something it didn't flinch at. "Well done, young Wally. But this battle isn't over yet". Wattson said with a grin, swiping his right hand out. "Manectric, Double Team again!" The Gym Leader commanded, a plan in mind to end this battle once and for all.

"Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon howled, body flashing for a moment and creating 8 copies of itself this time. "Now charge in and use Ice Fang!" Wattson commanded once more with a confident smirk. All eight copies cried out, fangs becoming covered in light blue, icy energy right before they all charged at Gallade once more.

"Hit them all with Psycho Cut, Gallade!" Wally ordered, slicing the air with his left hand in a karate chop. "Gallade!" The Blade Pokémon exclaimed, began swinging his arms repeatedly and unleashed purple crescent blades of energy. They all struck the copies, which disappeared on contact, except for one that leaped into the air. The real Manectric gave a howl as it started free falling down to Gallade with the Psychic and Fighting type gazing up at it.

"Quickly, stop Manectric with Psychic!" Wally called out with a hint of alarm in his voice, realizing that this battle was getting a bit dangerous. Gallade's eyes immediately glow light blue, followed by Manectric suddenly gaining a blue outline and stopped in midair. Wally smiled in relief, but Wattson smirked at the scene. "Now Manectric, use Thunder!" The Electric type Gym Leader commanded, holding his right hand out.

Wally widened his eyes in alarm, but it was too late to act. Manectric roared once more, followed by a bolt of thunder coming down from the cloud up above and struck Gallade. The Blade Pokémon roared in pain, eyes shut from the intense damage it was taking. "Ouch! That's gonna hurt!" Max commented, both him and Jirachi wincing from the sight of Gallade getting hit by that super powered Thunder attack.

The blue outline over Manectric's body disappeared. The Electric type fell to the ground and landed on his feet, still using Ice Fang somehow. The bolt of electricity disappeared to reveal Gallade still standing at least for a moment or two before collapsing to its knees with his head down. "Gallade!" Wally gasped in concern for his starter, while Wattson continued smirking. "Manectric, finish this up with Ice Fang!" The Gym Leader commanded, holding his right hand out once more.

"Manectric!" The Discharge Pokémon roared out, taking off into another charge once more with its target being Gallade. Time seemed to go slow as Wally grit his teeth at the whole situation, while Gallade opened his eyes. The two of them looked over to the stands, exactly at Ash, Pikachu and Grovyle. But their gazes were focused on the Rainbow Hero and his Wood Gecko Pokémon.

The two were watching with slightly narrowed eyes, remaining silent as they watched. The sight of their archrivals filled Wally and Gallade with determination to not lose this battle, especially with them watching. Time resumed as Wally turned his gaze forward, before holding up his left fist. "Gallade, lean back and hit Manectric with Low Sweep!" The green-haired boy shouted out, throwing his fist up upwards in the air.

Gallade widen both eyes with untold resolve at Wally's command, right as Manectric leaped at him. "GALLADE!" He shouted out, leaning backwards and fell on its back just in time to dodge Manectric with the Electric type just barely missing. Time seemed to slow down once more as everyone widen their eyes in surprise, while Gallade brought both legs in and thrust them, slamming both legs into Manectric's stomach.

Time resumed to its normal pace with Manectric gasping in pain, right before he was shot into the air from Low Sweep's force. Wattson gasped in surprise, while Wally, Ash and Grovyle all grinned at the sight. "Now Gallade, Psycho Cut with all your power!" Wally shouted out with all his heart, bringing his left hand down and pointed forward with the index finger out. Gallade immediately back flipped onto his feet, followed by the forearms beginning to glow purple with both of them growing and extending in the back.

"Gallade!" Gallade shouted out, before swinging his arms repeatedly and unleashed purple crescent blades of energy at Manectric. The purple crescent blades all struck the airborn Electric type, creating multiple explosions in the air. "Manectric!" Wattson cried out in concern, staring up at the cloud of smoke as something fell from within it and crashed done on the ground, kicking up a bit of dust.

(Music end)

Everyone started at exactly where the crash took place and waited for a few moments, until the dust eventually cleared. There, lying down on its right side was Manectric with the Electric type groaning with swirly eyes. Watt looked surprised for a moment, before giving a small smile proceeded to do his duty. "Manectric is unable to battle, Gallade wins! Since the Gym Leader's Pokémon are all unable to battle, the victory goes to the challenger Wally of Petalburg City!" Wattson's assistance declared, raising the green flag to signify Wally's victory.

May, Max and Jirachi all shot to their feet and started crying out in celebration for Wally's victory, while the rest of the gang just smiled for their young friend. Wally had a stunned face, as if he couldn't believe that he's won the Gym battle, but was broken out of his daze at the pain filled cry of Gallade. "Gallade!" The Blade Pokémon groaned, collapsing to his knees and then to his hands.

"Gallade!" Wally gasped out, before running over to his starter Pokémon. He passed by Wattson's unconscious Manectric, eventually reaching Gallade and knelt in front of the Blade Pokémon. "Are you alright? I'm so sorry for pushing you so hard". The green-haired boy apologized to his starter Pokémon, grabbing Gallade's attention. He looked up at his best friend and gave a reassuring smile at him. "Gallade, gal. Gallade". Gallade said softly to Wally, shaking his head sideways at him because he was more than happy to go to such lengths to win.

"Wally, catch!" A familiar voice cried out to the green-haired boy, catching Wally's attention. The boy looked over, then gave a surprised cry as he just barely managed to catch a Full Restore with his right hand. Wally spent a moment to stare at the item in his hand, before looking over to see Ash, Sorrel, Verity, Grovyle and Lucario walking over to him and Gallade with Pikachu ridding on Ash's right shoulder and Verity carrying Piplup in her arms.

The Rainbow Hero and his Wood Gecko Pokémon were smiling at Wally and his starter with proud faces at the two. "You did good work in that battle, Wally. Honestly, I think you did great out there. Honestly, I think you did better than me". Ash told his young friend, kneeling down in front of Wally. "You really do have great potential, and that battle more than showed it". The Rainbow Hero added, placing his right hand on Wally's left shoulder.

The green-haired boy gasped in surprise at Ash's words, feeling his very soul touched by his words. Grovyle walked over to the down form of Gallade and stopped right beside it on his left. The Blade Pokémon looked up at Grovyle and saw his grinning face directed at him. "Grovyle gro. Grovyle". The Grass type praised his old opponent, giving a nod of the head.

Gallade widen its eyes in surprise at Grovyle, staring at him for a moment or two before growing an overjoyed smile at being acknowledged by him. "Wally, use that Full Restore on Gallade. It'll heal him up completely in a couple of seconds". Sorrel told Wally right as Ash lifted his hand from Wally's shoulder. The green-haired boy gazed up at Sorrel, none of them paying attention as Wattson walked past them to head over to his unconscious Manectric.

Wally then blinked upon realizing what Sorrel was telling him and gave a short bow in gratitude. "T-Thank you so much". The green-haired boy thanked Ash's sworn brother, before turning to look at Gallade. Wally held up the Full Restore, then sprayed his starter with it. Almost immediately after; a green aura appeared over the Blade Pokémon, all of his injuries disappearing as he's healed completely.

The green aura completely disappeared to reveal a fully healed Gallade. Wally's Blade Pokémon blinked in surprise upon feeling all his aching pain suddenly gone, before looking at his own body while Wally was amazed. "Wow... Full Restores really are the greatest healing items". He stated, turning his gaze over to the now used up Full Restore in his hand.

May, Max, Brock and Jirachi joined their companions right as Ash, Wally and Gallade climbed up to their feet. "That was awesome, Wally. Your Pokémon were awesome out there!" Max exclaimed with a face full of amazement, an expression that Jirachi matched. The Steel and Psychic type was remaining quiet for the moment because he didn't want to freak Wally out. The boy's proven to be an innocent and trustworthy person, they just haven't gotten around to telling him some of their secrets yet and now wasn't exactly the best moment.

Wally flushed a bit in embarrassment at Max's words, while Gallade grew a grin full of pride. "T-Thank you... Max". The green-haired boy thanked his younger friend, not really used to compliments like that. "Now, now... There's no need to be nervous, accept this victory with pride my young lad". A familiar voice told Wally, catching both him and Gallade slightly by surprise. They and the gang looked over to see Wattson and Watt standing 10 feet away beside one another.

Verity spared a quickly glance behind the two, yet didn't see Manectric there. She quickly came to the conclusion that Wattson already recalled his ace monster and planned to heal it later when they're gone. "You fought hard and your determination is what won you this battle. You're still a bit rough around the edges, but you got a bright future ahead of you". The Electric type Gym Leader told Wally; both him and Watt walking up and stopped in front of him.

Wattson then held out his right hand to Wally with the palm open. The green-haired boy looked down at it and saw the Dynamo Badge resting there, as if waiting for him to pick it up. "You've earned your prize; the Dynamo Badge. Take it Wally, it is yours now". Wattson told Wally, urging him to take the badge. Wally gave a low, sharp gasp as he looked up at Wattson for a moment, then over to Ash.

The Rainbow Hero noticed Wally's gaze on him and gave a nod of support to him, giving a silent message for him to take it. Wally returned the nod, before looking at the Dynamo Badge and gently took it with his right hand. The Petalburg trainer brought his new badge closer and took a good look at it with great admiration, honestly finding it hard to believe that it was his now.

As Wally was admiring his new badge, Gallade looked over to his trainer's bag that's been left at the challenger's corner of the battlefield. "Gallade..." The Psychic and Fighting type said softly, both eyes beginning to glow blue. Wally's bag gained a blue outline, before it was lifted up from the ground and floated over to them. Gallade directed her gaze to the ground, placing Wally's bag down there.

Wally and the gang turned their gazes over to Wally's back, just as it opened and a badge case floated up from inside of it to Wally. The green-haired boy gave a small smile, before gently taking hold of his badge case with the right hand. Wally opened it, revealing that he indeed has a Knuckle Badge as his only badge there, before adding the new Dynamo Badge inside of it.

Everyone smiled at Wally for winning his second badge with Wattson laughing his usual joyous laugh. Watt suddenly blinked upon remembering something, before he turned to look at Verity, May and Piplup. "Verity, May, by the way?" Wattson's assistant spoke, catching the attention of both Pokémon Coordinators as they turned to look at him. "What is it Watt?" Verity asked, right before Watt walked up to her and May.

"Were you aware that a Pokémon Contest is coming up soon over in Verdanturf Town?" Watt asked the two females, catching the whole gang's attention with May growing an eager smile. "I really think you two should compete in it". The assistant told them, a suggestion that May had ever intention to take. "I've never been to Verdanturf Town". The brunette stated, unknowingly getting Wally to blink in surprise since that town's familiar to him since some of his family lives there.

"Verdanturf Town, huh". Sorrel said to himself, bringing out his Rotom Phone with his right hand and turned it on. After a few moments, he gave a grin. "That could work out for us just fine. From Verdanturf Town, we can cross the cave that'll lead us to Rustboro City and from there; to Petalburg". The Veilstone boy told his traveling companions, much to the fascination of Ash, May, Max, Brock and Pikachu at the mention of "Rustboro City".

"Rustboro, huh... That'll work with me". The Rainbow Hero stated, certain that it wasn't just him that had business there. Ash wasn't wrong; his friends already had plans for when they arrive at Rustboro. Max planned to see his old friends in the Pokémon School and introduce Jirachi to them. Sorrel and Brock intended to visit Devon Corporation to revive their fossils that they have. May wanted to see if she could run into her old mentor; Janet and introduce her to Verity. And as for the Rainbow Hero, he wanted to see if Reginald was doing better since he last saw them.

They all had ideas for visiting Rustboro, but first they had business in Verdanturf Town. "Let's get you in that Conest May, where you're gonna earn your second Contest Ribbon". Verity told her fellow Coordinator, turning around to face May. "Piplup pip!" Piplup called out with a joyous voice, raising both flippers into the air. May laughed in a joyful way as she held up her right fist. "You're right about that! Verdanturf Town is where I'm gonna earn my second ribbon!" The brunette exclaimed with spirit, thrusting her fist into the air.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Wally, Max, Brock, Wattson, Watt, Pikachu, Grovyle, Piplup, Lucario, Gallade and Jirachi all smiled at May; the gang full of confidence that she'll back up that talk. And Verity had every intention to help her with that by training May like there was no tomorrow.

---

(With Team rocket/ Play Fairy Tail OST V (Disc.2) #1 - Song of Victory)

In the forest outside of Mauville City, exactly where the battle between Team Rocket and Jessebelle's forces took place; it was over. The battle had finally ended with one side as the winner.

All over the city were either completely wrecked helicopters, or ones that were on fire, but were thankfully not spreading to the forest. And all over the place were the unconscious forms of the black suited men, Pidgeot, Fearow, Scyther, Pinsir, Ninetails, Machamp, Rhydon and Snorlax, all knocked out. The only ones still standing was Jessebelle and the victors of this fierce battle.

Jessie, James, Meowth, Seviper, Wobbuffet, Dustox, Trubbish, Gothorita, Cacturne, Fraxure, Parasect and Steelix all stood tall and proud, all of them scraped and had a few injures here and there, but were still the victors of this conflict. Despite being outnumbered, outgunned and against all odds; Team Rocket were the victors of this battle.

Jessie, James and Meowth were all laughing in triumphant, while their Pokémon were all grinning. "After a long, hard-fought battle, we are the WINNERS!" James shouted out with everything he had, throwing his right fist into the air in triumph with his Pokémon crying out. "Today is the day that we've trully proven that we're no longer losers, but a force to fear! WE'RE TEAM ROCKET!" Jessie shouted out, pointing her left hand's index finger up at the sky. Jessie's Pokémon all gathered around their trainer and grew grins.

Meowth burst out laughing with both paws on his hips, feeling absolutely like he's the king of the world. While Team Rocket were celebrating their victory; Jessebelle was outright scowling at Jessie and Meowth. The crazy woman felt nothing except pure hate for the two, blaming them for this whole situation and that James won't marry her. Jessebelle wished that they never existed, that way James would be with her. She really had no clue that James doesn't have a shred of love for her.

(Music end)

"...cures... THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT!" Jessebelle suddenly shouted out, catching Team Rocket by surprise before they all looked over to her and saw the crazy lady glaring at Jessie and Meowth. "If you two didn't exist, James would be with me as my husband and we would be happy right now! It's because of you that he won't be with me!" She yelled out, pointing her left hand's index finger at Jessie first, then at Meowth.

The two frowned at Jessebelle, while James grit his teeth at the idiocy of the crazy woman. "News flash lady; James doesn't like you in the slightest! Heck if he had to choose between you and a Muk, I'm 100% sure he'll choose the Muk!" Meowth exclaimed with a smug grin, words that made his teammates and fellow Pokémon chuckle in amusement. Jessebelle grew a deep frown of anger at what the Scratch Cat Pokémon said.

After she was done chuckling; Jessie raised her head, drop her amused expression and stared at Jessebelle with narrowed eyes. "And even if we never were with James, he still wouldn't marry you! We're not the ones that made him run away from home, you were!" The female adult shouted out, pointing at Jessebelle with her left hand's index finger.

James' crazy fiancé was now growling in anger, now desiring nothing more than for Jessie and Meowth to drop off the face of the Earth. James took that moment to step forward, before holding up his left fist. "Jessie and Meowth are right! And don't you talk that way about them either, Jessebelle! Jessie and Meowth are the most important people in my life, so don't you dare speak that way about them!" The blue-haired male shouted out, then pointed at her with left hand's index finger.

"I'll say this as many times as it takes until you get it through your thick skull! I will never EVER marry you, not even if you were the last woman in this planet!" James shouted at Jessebelle, much to her absolute rage at how he continues to defy her. "THAT'S ENOUGH JAMES!" A familiar voice shouted out, grabbing everyone's attention. Team Rocket and their Pokémon looked over to see James' parents joining Jessebelle's side with their clothes having a few tears here and there.

At the beginning of the battle, they had taken shelter in the same helicopter they came out of to wait for their "daughter-in-law" to bring them their son. That plan went out the window when Team Rocket started kicking tails and blew up that helicopter that they just barely managed to escape in. They used the trees as shields to protect themselves from getting hurt, but a few stray bits of the attacks hit their suits/dresses.

This whole situation was becoming stressful for them as well, but their son's defiance was breaking pas their limits. They couldn't stay silent anymore because they were more than sick and tired of James' attitude. "This behavior of yours has gone on long enough!" Jame's mother told her son with pure irritation in her voice, not a single shred of her previous grace left. "You WILL return with us home, marry Jessebelle and continue the family tradition, understood?!" James' father exclaimed, no sign of grace either in his posture.

(Play The Will of Spirits/Cutscene #28 - Tales of Arise OST (HQ gamerip)

Team Rocket and their Pokémon all frowned at the crazy family standing across them. Their opinions of them just continued going down by the second, especially for James' Pokémon. Cacturne, Steelix, Fraxure and Parasect have all been curious to learn about James' family, but he never really talked about them. They had at first thought it was because there had been an accident that took their lives, or he didn't know them at all.

But now seeing what kind of terrible people they are made the four realize why James never talked about them. They were full of themselves, gave no care for James' feelings, trying to force him into a marriage he didn't want and take him away from Jessie and Meowth. Cacturne, Steelix, Fraxure and Parasect hoped that they never encounter these people ever again.

James shared the feelings of disgust his Pokémon were harboring for his "family" right now. "I said it to Jessebelle; I'm not gonna marry her! That's never gonna change no matter what happens, got it?!" He exclaimed, throwing his right hand out to the side before gesturing to his teammates with that same hand. "I'm choosing to stay with Jessie, Meowth and our Pokémon because they care about me and truly want what's best for me. Until you learn that, I want nothing to do with you!" James told them, then looked over to Jessie and nodded to her.

The female adult nodded to her teammate, before she looked over to Seviper. "Seviper, Haze attack now!" Jessie cried out, thrusting her left hand forward. "Seviper! Se…viper!" The Fang Snake Pokémon screeched out, before releasing thick, black smoke from its mouth that covered everything from view. Jessebelle and James' parents all began coughing from inhaling the smoke, their eyes shut to keep it from getting in their eyes.

After a few moments, like half a minute, the smoke eventually cleared. Jessebelle and her "parents-in-law" opened their eyes, then blinked upon seeing Team Rocket was gone and instead a massive hole was left where they were standing a few seconds ago. Unknown to them was that this was Team Rocket's newest escape trick that involves using Seviper's Haze, then Steelix's Dig to escape underground.

Jessebelle's face turned bright red in rage that once more, James escaped her. It just wasn't fair; she's done everything to be the perfect wife for him yet James just continued to run away from her. Just why were things like this?

James' parents were of the same mind as their "daughter-in-law". They were frowning in confusion and frustration with their son's actions, wondering just why he refused to listen to them. They remember that night James met Jessebelle and fell in love with her, so why has he changed so much since that day? Why doesn't he gaze at her with those same eyes that same night. Instead he now stares at Jessebelle with disgust and hatred.

He stares at those two annoyances with more care and love than he ever did with them. It just didn't make any sense to them on why James preferred to be with them, instead of with his family. And it would remain like this for Jessebelle and James' family for a long time, and even if by some miracle they realized their mistakes, it would be far too late because James has already found a new family. One that he loves dearly since they accepted who he is.

---

(With Ash and the gang/ Music end)

While Team Rocket achieved their victory and escaped free of James' family; Ash, the gang and Wally left the Mauville City Gym, saying goodbye to Wattson and Watt. Ash and Wally recalled Grovyle and Gallade earlier before they left by the way. Wally managed to convince the gang to go with him to the park because he wanted to show Ash something important. Curious on what this important something is; the gang followed their friend to the park.

In just a few minutes; they all arrived at the park where Wally turned around to face them 10 feet away. Before Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi could speak, Wally turned his gaze over to his bag and opened it. He reached inside with his right hand, before bringing it out with the hand closed.

Wally turned his gaze over to the gang and smiled at them as he held up the right hand, opening it to reveal 6 shrunken ball devices. The gang stared down at the devices in Wally's hand in curiosity, before Ash directed his gaze over to Wally's face. "Is this your current team of Pokémon, Wally?" The Rainbow Hero asked his younger friend, now having a good idea what Wally wanted to show them.

Wally smiled, then nodded to his unofficial rival. He turned his gaze down to the six devices in hand, before he began tapping the center with the right hand. They all enlarged, showing themselves to be a Poké, Great, Dusk, Luxury and Nest Balls. Wally quickly placed his left hand over the right to steady himself and not drop them.

Once he had a good hold; Wally smiled and gave a nod at the six devices he's holding. "Come on out...everyone!" Wally cried out, throwing both hands into the air and tossed all six balls. Once high in the air; Waly's Poké, Great, Dusk, Luxury and Nest Balls all burst open and released white lights that came down and struck the ground in front of Wally.

They all took shape, and then cleared to reveal Wally's team of Pokémon. The gang were not surprised to see Gallade, Gible and Fletchinder, but the same couldn't be said for Wally's other three. It was a Magnemite, Skitty and Roselia with all six of Wally's Pokémon crying out with energy.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all looked at Wally's Pokémon with awe, fascination or wonder. "Wow! A Skitty!" May cried out joyfully, clapping both hands together in delight as she stared down at Wally's Skitty. The Normal type smiled up at May for a moment, before turning around and walked over to Wally.

"Magnemite, huh? Now that's a bit ironic, you having one and just battled another not too long ago". Sorrel remarked, staring up at the floating Electric and Steel type with an amused face. "Magnemite". Magnemite said quickly, turning its gaze over to Lucario with both Steel types staring at one another. "A Roselia? Interesting choice". Brock said with a small smile, staring down at Wally's Roselia with a fascinated expression much to the Grass and Poison type's embarrassment.

Ash spent a moment staring at Wally's Pokémon, before looking over to Wally and saw him smiling in embarrassment. "After our battle... I worked hard at training and catching new Pokémon. I have 3 more that my family's looking after back at Petalburg City, but I've worked real hard. I evolved a few of them, we managed to earn my Knuckle Badge and I managed to find a Dawn Stone to help Gallade become what he is now". The green-haired boy explained to Ash, gazing down at the ground to avoid making eye contact with him.

Despite his victory over Wattson and earning Ash's praise, Wally still felt greatly nervous around the Rainbow Hero since he was Wally's greatest inspiration to become a powerful trainer himself one day. Maybe one day he'll no longer feel nervous around Ash, but that day wasn't here yet and Wally still felt he had more to accomplish before he's ready to look him in the eye.

Ash noticed Wally's behavior around him immediately and gave a small sigh. "Pikachu pi". Pikachu suddenly spoke up from Ash's right shoulder, catching the Rainbow Hero's full attention. Ash looked at his best friend and saw Pikachu staring right at him. The Electric Mouse's mouth opened, but words came out instead of Pikachu's usual cry. 'Don't push him. Act normal around him'. Pikachu told Pallet Town's best trainer, closing his mouth right after speaking.

Ash stared at Pikachu for a moment or two, before he nodded. The Rainbow Hero turned his gaze over to Wally, before blinking upon thinking of an idea. "Hey Wally, want to see one of my newest Pokémon?" He asked Wally with a curious voice, catching the green-haired boy by surprise. Wally quickly nodded his head in excitement in a quick second though, certain this Pokémon Ash is talking about is a rare one.

Ash and Pikachu smiled at Wally's nod. The Rainbow Hero turned to his right, before bringing out a shrunken Poké Ball with his hand. He tapped the center, causing his Poké Ball to enlarge. "Come on out and say hi... Miraidon!" Ash cried out as he tossed the device upwards, catching his friends' attention at what he said. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi turned their gazes to the airborne Poké Ball, right before it burst open.

A powerful white light came out and slammed down on the ground, kicking up a large bit of dust. It cleared to reveal Ash's newest capture and the legendary Pokémon of the Paldea Region; Miraidon. The violet Dragon unleashed a mighty roar, releasing a shockwave that almost blasted Wally's Skitty, Roselia and Gible off their feet yet managed to remain standing.

Wally gasped in pure amazement, while his Pokémon all stared at Miraidon in wonder. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all turned to look at Ash in bewilderment that he'd just let Miraidon out here in the middle of Mauville City. As for the Rainbow Hero and his Electric Mouse Pokémon, they both smiled at their newest family member.

Verity walked over to her boyfriend and placed her right hand on Ash's left shoulder, grabbing the attention of both him and Pikachu. "Why would you let Miraidon out here in Mauville City, Ash?" The Twinleaf girl questioned her boyfriend, honestly a bit bewildered Ash would make a move like this. "Don't worry about it. Wally's trust worthy and I don't want to take away Miraidon's freedom". Ash replied, placing his right hand over Verity's and gave a reassuring smile.

Verity still looked a bit worried at the chances of someone giving them trouble from trying to take Miraidon, but decided to trust in her boyfriend. She took her hand off of Ash's shoulder right as he turned to look at Wally, who was still staring at the violet dragon with fascination and amazement. "Wally". The Rainbow Hero spoke, catching his young friend's full attention.

He turned to look at Ash, right as he continued speaking. "Miraidon is a Pokémon from the Paldea Region. His former trainer gave him to me with a request to look after Miraidon. Can you keep Miraidon a secret, Wally? Miraidon's a rare Pokémon even for the Paldea Region". Pallet Town's best trainer informed Wally, much to Wally's further amazement at hearing this.

"Amazing... I promise to keep Miraidon a secret, thank you for showing me him". Wally thanked the raven-haired boy, watching Ash as he held out his right hand towards Miraidon. The violet dragon immediately walked over to its new trainer and pressed its head against Ash's hand. The Rainbow Hero gently rubbed Miraidon's head, while Pikachu ran over to Miraidon's back and sat there.

"Thank you Wally. It really means a lot". Ash thanked Wally, then gave a curious face. "So, why are you going now? So, where are you going now? Which Gym are you gonna challenge for your third badge?" The Rainbow Hero asked, catching Wally a little by surprise at the question. "I...I'm not...sure about that yet". He answered with an uncertain voice, looking down at the ground below them.

Ash slightly widen his eyes, still gently rubbing Miraidon's head with his right hand. "Really? In that case; why don't you challenge the Gym in Lavaridge Town then". The Rainbow Hero suggested, catching Wally a bit by surprise as he looked up at Ash's face. "It's a Fire type Gym that I went to not too long ago. The Gym Leader; Flannery is a new Gym Leader, but is a strong Fire type user. I'd say that's a good place for you to go for your next Gym Battle". He explained to his friend, certain that Wally could earn his third badge from there.

Wally looked down in thought for a few moments, before looking back up at Ash and nodded to him. "Thank you for your suggestion. I'll take it and challenge the Lavaridge Gym next". The green-haired boy declared with a small, yet confident smile. Ash gave a pleased chuckle at hearing this, moving his right hand from Miraidon's head to Wally's left shoulder once more. "Good luck then. Flannery's a strong trainer". The Rainbow Hero said softly, certain that Wally will become much stronger by the time he reaches Lavaridge Town.

Wally nodded in thanks to Ash. The raven-haired boy lifted his hand from Wally's shoulder, right before he turned around to look at all the Pokémon he let out. May was kneeling down in front of Skitty, scratching underneath its chin with the Normal type purring. Fletchinder and Magnemite were flying in the air above Brock, Max and Jirachi with all three of them looking up at the two. Gallade was standing to the side, watching with both arms crossed. Roselia and Gible were standing right beside the Blade Pokémon, no real reason for the three to interact with their trainer's friends.

Just as Wally opened his mouth to call Gallade, Roselia, Gible, Fletchinder, Magnemite and Skitty, someone caught his first. "Wally, catch". A familiar voice said, grabbing the green-haired boy's attention. He turned his head a bit to the left, then gave a started cry as he just barely managed to catch a Moon Stone with both hands.

Wally blinked down at the stone in his hands, before looking over to see Sorrel standing there with his right hand out, a sign that he was the one that threw the Moon Stone at him. "I don't have any need for that Moon Stone, so you can have it. You'll be able to evolve your Skitty with it". The Veilstone boy informed Wally, lowering his hand and gazed away with crossed arms.

Wally blinked in surprise, before growing an excited smile. He bowed his head to Sorrel in gratitude. "Thank you so much, Sorrel. It really means a lot to me". He thanked Sorrel for the Moon Stone, certain he'll use it to evolve his Skitty soon. Sorrel gave a small smile at Wally's thanks, comically ignoring the way Lucario's staring at him with a grinning face.

A few seconds later; Wally recalled all his Pokémon and was ready to head straight for Lavaridge Town. The green-haired boy was standing in front of Ash and his friends with their Pokémon gathered around, before bowing his head to them. "Thank you for everything, and it was great to see you all again. I hope we see each other again soon". Wally said softly to them all, standing up straight and smiled at them.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Miraidon, Piplup, Lucario and Piplup all nodded to Wally, followed by the Rainbow Hero speaking. "I hope to see you again soon as well, Wally. Stay safe out there and don't take unnecessary risks". Ash told his younger friend, advice that Wally took to heart as he nodded to him. "I will. See you soon!" Wally bid farewell with a wave of the right hand, before turning around and took off into a run.

The whole gang raised their hands, except for Miraidon, and waved goodbye to Wally's retreating figure. "Bye Wally!" They all bid farewell to their friend, their Pokémon crying out as well. After a few seconds; Wally disappeared from sight and left the gang alone in the park.

Everyone lowered their hands, right before May frowned in concern. "You really think he'll be okay out there on his own". The brunette asked, worried for Wally since he doesn't have any travel companions with him. "He'll be fine. If he's managed to earn two badges on his own without anyone traveling with him, I'm sure Wally is gonna be more than fine. We just need to have faith in him". Sorrel told May, turning his head left to look at her.

Despite Sorrel's words; May was still worried and Ash noticed that perfectly. He placed his right hand on May's left shoulder, grabbing her attention as she looked over to him. "Wally's a strong boy, traveling around won't be a problem for him. You've already seen how much stronger he is than before, so don't worry about him". The Rainbow Hero reassured his girlfriend, turning his gaze over to where he last saw Wally.

May grew a smile directed at her boyfriend, feeling her concerns disappear from his words. She gave a nod of the head, right before Ash lifted his hand off May's shoulder. The Rainbow Hero looked over to Miraidon and see Pikachu still seated on Miraidon's back. "Anyway, I think we should be on our way now. We need to get to May's next contest as fast as possible after all". Brock said with a small grin, reminding his friends about their next destination and May's next contest.

May let out a breath of delight, while everyone else nodded. "He's right. Miraidon, return for now at least until we reach the forest". Ash told his violet dragon, holding up Miraidon's Poké Ball with his right hand. Miraidon turned to look at Ash, then nodded to him while Pikachu jumped off of the violet dragon's back to the ground.

Ash gave a nod of gratitude to his Electric and Dragon type Pokémon, before recalling it. Once Miraidon was fully recalled to its Poké Ball; Ash put it away. "Okay, are we all set to head on to Verdanturf Town?" The Rainbow Hero asked, focusing on putting away his device and paid no attention as Pikachu climbed up to his right shoulder. "We got everything we need. We're good to go, Ash". Brock answered, sharing a quick glance with Sorrel before they looked over to the Rainbow Hero.

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's GO!" May shouted out in excitement, taking off into a run much to the comical surprise of everyone as they watched her go. "Wh- wait up May!" Max yelled at his sister as he chased after her with Jirachi flying right beside him. Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup and Lucario all chuckled in amusement, before they took off to chase after the Maple siblings and Wish Pokemon.

The gang was back on their journey with their destination being Verdanturf Town, where May will win her second ribbon.

---

(Date a Live: Day to Story)

"This is the tale of a long, long journey…"

"Of a hero who left home to save you".

The screen was pure black, before slowly lighting up to reveal the night sky full of bright stars. The camera started going downwards, eventually showing the back of the kneeling down form of Ash, who was kneeling on a light blue ground. The Rainbow Hero was kneeling down on his left knee, his right resting on the right knee and head tilted down with eyes closed.

The camera zoomed in and shifted around to show the Rainbow Hero slowly opening his eyes to reveal them lightly glowing a rainbow colour with the night sky around him transforming into a sunset sky with clouds. Ash tilted his head up to look out across the sea towards the rising sun in the distance, before his Rainbow Hero wings appeared on his back and spread out fully.

He continued to look out across the distance, before the sunlight from the rising sun soon blinded the camera.

"From a land of fairy tales, a hero set off on a journey".

Ash stood on atop of a hill overlooking his hometown, Pallet Town, still kneeling down in the same position with his wings spread out, head tilted down and eyes closed once more. Pikachu came into view, spun around and then smiled at the camera as he closed in and came over the screen.

"Passing through the grassy plains to find his princess".

Once Pikachu left the screen, it changed to show Ash now in Mount Tensei's summit with the Rainbow Rock a little bit away in the distance, still in the same position. Then, Verity came into view with a wild smile on her face. She stuck her tounge out at the camera as she closed in and came over the screen.

"Overcoming pitch black caves and stormy mountains".

Once Verity left the screen, it changed to show Ash now in the Secret Garden of Alto Mare, still kneeling down in front of the pound where the Soul Dew rested. Bianca then came into view with a soft smile directed at the camera, before closing in and came over the screen.

The screen then changed to show Ash in Forina, down on solid ground and still kneeling down with his head tiled down.

"His sword held high".

The Rainbow Wing then came up from below and came over view in the camera, before disappearing to reveal a patch of grass with a dark background. The camera moved across to the right, eventually showing Ash still in his kneeling down position with his Rainbow Hero wings spread out fully.

"The flames of courage burns in his eyes".

The Rainbow Wing floated down out of nowhere right next to the left side of Ash's face. The Rainbow Hero then opened his rainbow glowing coloured eyes and brought his head up, and then proceeded to stand up fully.

"I'll cast of the clutches of darkness and take your hand in mine".

A familiar right hand, belonging of that of a certain Twinleaf girl, reached out with Ash's left hand reaching out towards it as well. The two hands then gently grabbed hold of one another with a rainbow light appearing in between them. The light grew much stronger and blinded the screen.

"Always with my sword in hand".

The screen changed to show the Rainbow Wing floating down from the night sky full of stars, before images of Ash's traveling companions started to appear one by one. First, it was Misty, who gave a wave with her right hand, then changed to show Brock, who had his arms crossed and smiling at the camera.

"I'll break through the darkness to find you".

May, Max and Jirachi then all appeared together with the oldest Maple sibling having her arms wrapped around her brother's neck from behind, hugging him with a bright smile. Max and Jirachi both had wide smiles with their eyes closed with the former holding his best friend in his arms in a happy embrace.

The Maple siblings and Jirachi disappeared from view, before it changed to show Sorrel and Lucario, standing back to back with one another, both looking at the camera with confident expressions on their faces.

"No matter how hard it is, I won't ever give up".

Then, both Verity and Piplup appeared with the Twinleaf girl having her arms wrapped around her starter's stomach, holding the Water type close. Both Verity and Piplup were giving mischievous looks right at the camera, before they and the Rainbow Wing disappeared from view.

"So come and take my hand".

"The eternal flames of courage (Dead or Alive)".

"Fills the world with light".

Azora and Sylvia then came up into view, facing the camera directly with narrowed eyes. The two flew a little bit away from the camera, before the blue haired girl pointed her right hand forward and gave a command. Sylvia gave out a cry as it unleashed a Fairy Wind attack right at the camera, before the two faded away.

Rainbow coloured flames erupted from below the night sky and burned bright, before briefly covering the camera completely, only to quickly die out to reveal Ash and Verity standing beside one another at a beach a few feet away from the water. And a little bit away were a few grass covered rocks with flowers behind the pair of boyfriend and girlfriend. Ash didn't have his Rainbow Hero wings anymore, but Pikachu was now on his right shoulder, while Verity was still holding Piplup in her arms.

The four were looking out across the distance towards the rising sun as it rose up, brining another day full of adventure for the Pokémon World.

---

And that's scene! Another chapter done, one more before reaching 30 chapters. I'm a bit proud of myself for reaching 30 chapters with this story and I hope that we go a lot further in the future. Anyway, I decided this month I'm gonna update my 5D's-V story and Injustice one, so please be patient until then everyone.

See ya then. Happy 2024!