Chapter 33
Ash was so disgusted by the first semi-final where the psychic beat the other trainer that he left before the match was over. He could see, even from his box, that the psychic was cheating and he couldn't believe this was allowed to happen. Two psychics in the final of the Indigo League was utterly shameful and would be a stain on his legacy, something he didn't think he could ever forgive Giovanni for. Stalking past Anne he sat at his computer and started typing furiously. Twenty minutes later he checked over what he'd written before walking past Anne and heading upstairs, walking past the bewildered receptionist and into the boardroom where he gathered the DVD he had left there after the meeting. Heading back down he ignored Anne and sat down at his desk. Ten minutes later he walked down to Anne who looked up in surprise.
"Send that to the Indigo Media Team to be released immediately" Ash said placing the printed statement and the disc on her desk before turning back around leaving her to read in shock. Closing her eyes she contemplated what to do before deciding, Ash was her boss after all. Scanning it she rang the reception desk for a runner who arrived a few minutes later by Elevator "Take this to the newsroom and give it directly to the four major media teams that have set up at the Plateau. Champions orders." Handing the envelope and the DVD over she watched him leave and sighed. The next few days were going to be very busy.
The reporters were gathered around the exit to the battlefield waiting for the second finalist to make their way down the tunnel when seemingly as one a loud set of beeps was heard going off as they all received a message. Reading it they seemed to look at each other in disbelief before eagerly jotting down on their pads a few more questions to ask on the end.
Gary Endelworth was feeling very happy as he left the field to applause. His opponent had already left having been easily beaten so he was rather smug as he entered the tunnel and walked to where he could see the reporters. The questions were quite standard, he felt as they were pretty much the same ones he had been asked all tournament so it threw him when the reporter working for the Indigo League itself asked.
"And what is your reaction to the statement the Kanto Champion has just put out?"
"Well obviously I have no idea what he has said" Gary said his lip curling at the thought of that thing being Champion "I don't think I care either. I have a final to prepare for."
"Well I would think you should care given he's just banned whoever wins on Sunday from ever having a shot at the Elite Four Challenge as you both are under investigation.."
"What?" he shouted "he cannot do that! It is my right to challenge should I win on Sunday. He has no grounds for doing so!"'
"Actually he does" she said pointing to the several screens that were showing a picture of Ash before switching to the DVD he had created "he has cited rampant cheating throughout the tournament as the reason and 'Bringing the Indigo Conference into serious disrepute to the point I am ashamed to be associated with it" He has also asked the competitors that faced anyone who labels themselves as a Psychic to come to the stadium tomorrow for an emergency meeting where he is apparently giving out his book on aura for free to anyone who turns up."
Gary was too livid to answer and stormed away, furious that his big moment in the spotlight had been snatched away from him.
People around Kanto who had been watching the battles were stunned by a breaking news bulletin directly from the Indigo Plateau. Apparently the Champion himself had released a statement that they were all eager to hear.
"We bring you this special news bulletin" the newscaster said looking directly into the camera "Twenty minutes ago the Champion Ash Ketchum released a statement along with video evidence that has shook the entire Kanto League. The statement is as follows
'I have just witnessed one of the most one-sided semi-finals in my short career and not for the right reasons. I am thoroughly disgusted by the actions that several participants of the Tournament have done and I am utterly ashamed that the actions that were once banned were deemed legal for this tournament when it is very clear why they were banned. The ability to read the mind of your opponent in battle has always been deemed in poor taste as it gives one party a significant advantage over their opponent. To be able to act in response of an action that has yet to happen is appalling and while they won't they should hang their heads in shame for such blatant cheating. It is therefore my decision as Champion of the Kanto League to ban those trainers, which sadly includes the two finalists from participating in the Elite Four Challenge, something which is usually a right, that I am making a privilege instead for solely this occasion. An investigation is going to take place to determine the actions of the participants and if any further sanctions are needed.
I am deeply sorry for the injustice that has occurred over the past five weeks. What should have been the pinnacle of a trainer's career, travelling your way across Kanto to gain the necessary badges to be able to participate in such a prestigious event, grinding your way to victory has been marred by a select few with no justification. I cannot apologise enough and I have deemed your participation in this year's Indigo League void of the 5 chance rule and have stricken it from your trainer accounts. I wish to invite everyone who feels aggrieved to Stadium 1 tomorrow where I will give everyone who turns up a brief lesson in being able to protect your mind from such intrusions. Silph Co. are also just as appalled by the actions and have agreed to give copies of my book away for free for the next month to anyone who wishes to protect their minds that cannot make it to the stadium tomorrow. Simply send an email with your name and address to the Silph website and I will personally pay for the shipping to your homes. Again I can only offer my apologies and an assurance that I will do my best to see it never happen again.'
That was the statement released by Kanto Champion Ash Ketchum. There has been no response so far from the representatives of the President of the League or the outgoing Champion Blue Oak."
There was no response from Giovanni because he was currently in his own office, head in his hands wondering just what the hell was happening to his League. He had been in charge for less than four months and was already starting to regret it. He never thought that his main issue would be his Champion, his own nephew who was creating controversy after controversy with his disrespect to him both in-house and in front of the world on TV. pressing a button on his desk he buzzed his Secretary.
"Yes Sir?" came the reply.
"What is the location of Ash right now?" he asked quietly.
"He's currently in his office, Sir"
"Get him up here please." he said, releasing the buzzer as he walked to his cabinet, opening it and grabbing the bottle of Whiskey along with a glass. Pouring himself a glass he sat back and waited and soon enough he heard the stride of his nephew along the corridor. Watching impassively as Ash sat across from him seemingly unconcerned. Taking a drink he placed the glass on his desk and just stared at his nephew before sighing "why?"
"You know why" Ash said unconcerned "taking away that rule has made this League a farce Giovanni and you know it. You're not thick uncle, you've known why this rule had been put in place so why did you get rid of it?"
"Ash" he said sighing and shaking his head "I don't know what you know of the board here at the Plateau but the Presidents word isn't the final one. I have the ability to cast a deciding vote if it's needed but the rule was repealed by the board of Governors, very nearly unanimously. I had literally no say in this one. I am the face of the Board Ash but they are the financers of everything that happens here at the League. This is not going to be let go Ash. I don't think I can protect you here."
"You don't need to" Ash said, pulling out a thick folder and placing it on the desk "55 of the 64 participants have filed complaints about this tournament, several of them stating they are quite willing to get here the first day of registration next year, lock out the available positions and then walk out at the opening ceremony if the rule isn't reinstated. Several of those trainers have parents that finance a lot of the business here at the League and have threatened to pull the funding in protest against the way their children, who are the stars of this event, have been treated. I didn't do this on a whim Giovanni, and while my hatred for Psychics in general has very little equal I have taken everything Blue has taught me on board over the last few months and the integrity of the League, of which I am Champion, has been threatened. I responded in the only way I know how, with decisiveness to put a stop to the mass exodus before I have even taken the position fully. My own future here is hanging on a knife edge because of a silly decision taken by the board."
"This is ridiculous," he said, standing up and looking out at the stadium which was now empty. "I've dreamed of being here my whole life and now I finally am here my very first Tournament may be my last. What is happening?"
"I don't have much to say really" Ash said shrugging his shoulders as he stood up "but clearly the people have spoken. We don't have enough trainers in Kanto to let 55 of them boycott the League and not be a laughing stock to the other regions. I'm prepared to stand with them uncle, I am a trainer at heart and I always will be."
Giovanni didn't even look around but he knew Ash had left him to his thoughts. Sighing he picked up the bottle, poured himself another drink and picked up the folder. This was not going to end well.
Earlier on that day Red was sitting at Blue's house having a beer with him while they watched the semi-finals, growing more and more disgusted by the minute.
"What is going on?" Blue asked, confused. "How is he able to predict what his opponent is doing so easily? I've seen trainers react in a split second before to an opponent's move choice, hell we were both masters at it by the time we fought each either in the final but to pre-empt every single move?"
"I'm not sure" Red replied "But I suspect some form of insider information is happening here. Whether Eric has been paid off and Gary has a great memory to remember what Eric is going to use or something equally as sinister I have no idea, but something is going on."
Watching Eric get demolished 5-1 in a Semi-final when he had looked so strong the round before left them both baffled. Red had a feeling he knew what happened and was at a loss as to how. Watching Eric look distraught in his post match interview was heart-breaking as he himself didn't know how his opponent had managed to read him so well. So when they heard the reporter ask Gary what he thought of what Ash had said made them both perk up.
"He's banned them from the Elite Four Challenge?" Laura asked from the kitchen counter "Can he do that? Could you have done that?"
"Yes" Blue replied "but only in an extreme event. And I'd need to be 100% sure I was correct to do so."
"Shhh," Red said, leaning forward as the live feed was interrupted by the Indigo News team. "Bloody hell" Red said in shock at hearing his sons statement "He's actually waging war on the Kanto Board and every psychic trainer in the world. I don't know whether to smack him across the head or convince Delia to have another baby after Flora and name that Ash too. Go on Son" he finished smiling and leaning back.
"The board won't take this lightly" Blue said wondering what mess he was going to inherit when he returned to work "Ash may be fired for this."
"Ash won't care" Red said "he won't, and you know it. The only thing he'll be gutted about is that his chance at gaining a Mastery will disappear but it will free him up to travel wherever he wants."
"If Ash is sacked I'm resigning" Blue said, shocking them "I will. I was training Ash because he is the rightful Champion. He has taken my advice on board and asked questions that would shock most people but the one thing we all know is he believes it to be an honour to be Champion. He stood up for me on National TV, against his own Uncle no less and now he's defending the integrity of the institution I have served for nearly two decades. I am very proud of him right now."
"You're not the only one" Red said, smiling at the TV as they watched the DVD evidence of what the psychics had done.
"I mean that's pretty cut and dry right?" Laura said "I mean in one of them he blatantly tells everyone what his opponent is going to do before he does it."
"How did we not see that?" Blue asked "It's very obvious now we know what to look for."
"Because we thought that rule was still in place" Red said darkly "as it still should be. Someone has obviously bribed a lot of people to get that law lifted. Oh to be a fly on the wall for that meeting."
"I think I quite fancy being that fly" Blue said, heaving himself up onto his feet and limping slightly to the fridge, getting another couple of beers out. "I think I'll pay Giovanni a visit tomorrow, see what's going on."
The phone ringing didn't distract the two from their conversation so Laura answered it "Oh hello Sam, Blue it's your dad."
"Coming" he said, wandering over "Hey dad, what can I do for you?"
"Did you know that law had been lifted?" he asked without any pre-amble.
"No," he said, shaking his head. "In fact Red and I were just talking about that. I think a lot of envelopes have been passed around to change that one."
"My thoughts exactly" he said "I've just had Charles Goodshow on the phone nearly in tears at how much of a shitshow his baby has become in just a few months. I fear for Ash on this though, however it's a hell of a hill to die on isn't it."
"One we all know he'll fight," Red said over Blue's shoulder. "I'm so proud of that boy right now."
"As am I" Sam said "however he's likely reacted too soon. Sending out the footage the way he did has likely ruined any chance of a fair investigation against them."
"It was pretty obvious dad," Blue said.
"And yet we didn't see it as it was happening" Sam replied.
"Only because we had no reason to suspect the law had been lifted in our absence" Blue said "had we known that we'd have seen it immediately. I'm resigning if Ash is sacked, I can't work for an organisation that condones cheating in our flagship event."
"I won't attempt to change your mind" Sam said "just be sure Blue."
The next day Ash received an email from Giovanni stating an emergency meeting had been scheduled for 11am that morning with the board. Ash snorted and ignored it. He would be in the stadium at that time with the league competitors and like hell was he going back on his word to them just to appease the men with moustaches. Walking into the stadium he was absolutely shocked at the numbers that were there. There must have been over two hundred people here, he thought.
"Good morning" he said to them "I'm sorry if I appear shocked, I was under the impression only 55 were coming. I'll start out by apologising again for the shocking way you were treated in this tournament. I have no idea why the Board lifted several laws but I will do what I can to rectify that. Unfortunately as we speak there's a meeting happening, likely to discuss whether I carry on as Kanto Champion. At the minute I'm finding it hard to care about that as I truly feel I am right where I should be rather than having to justify my position to people who don't speak for me. So, you have me for the next two to three hours and I will try and teach you what I can. When you leave, head to the reception desk and pick up your copy of my book. It has a lot of methods for you to try should I not be successful here today. So, shall we begin? Feel free to ask questions as I walk past, when it comes to this the more information I can give you the better."
Giovanni looked out of the window and smirked. Looking at his clock he saw it was 10:55 and the board was currently sitting in the meeting room expecting Ash to turn up. Giovanni suspected they were hoping he'd grovel for his job but they clearly didn't know Ash the way he did. Seeing his nephew down on the field with over a hundred people was a clear message to him. The people felt aggrieved and Ash's actions clearly spoke louder than words. Picking up the file Ash had given him he walked into the boardroom and sat down.
"Where is Ketchum?" one member asked "It is 11am and he should be here."
"Ash is right where he needs to be" Giovanni said as he opened the folder.
"No, he should be here" the member said furiously "he should be here to explain his actions!"
"His actions have been explained in his statement" Giovanni said looking at the man before taking a few of the sheets out "Damien Rachet, son of Frank Rachet, owner of the Citadel Museum in Indigo Plateau. Amelia Andrews, son of Lord Andrews, owner of the Golden Krabby in Goldenrod City and The Dragonites Nest in Indigo Plateau. Warren Priest, son of Lady Samantha Priest, owner of the Indigo Department Store. And finally Daniel Allen III, semi-finalist of the Indigo League this year, Grandson of Duke Allen, Uncle and emissary to Her Majesty Queen Ilene of Rota." with each name he placed a sheet on the table and looked up after reading the final name "every single one of these trainers competed in the league this year and were beaten by a psychic trainer who was allowed to cheat by reading their minds. Every single one of these trainers, along with 51 others have filed a grievance with the Kanto League for the legal allowance of mind-rape. I also have 55 sworn statements that at the next Indigo League these trainers will return to compete again."
"That's good then" someone said waving his hand dismissively.
"Where they will then walk out of the competition as one at the opening ceremony leaving us with just 9 competitors unless that law is reinstated" Giovanni continued looking at the man.
"This is tantamount to blackmail" a woman shouted as her colleague agreed.
A buzzer brought Giovannis attention "Yes?" he asked.
"Sir, Champion Blue has just sent an email for your perusal. He stated your immediate perusal."
Taking out his tablet he logged on as the arguments petered out as they looked at Giovanni. Hearing him snort humourlessly wasn't a good sign. Closing his tablet down he looked up.
"Champion Blue Oak, along with Elite Four Members Koga and Laura have stated quite categorically that should Ash be fired they would all three of them resign in protest leaving us without a single member in office. Blue and Koga have also stated that they were not made aware of the law change and would have been adamantly opposed to it should it have been brought up to them. I fear, my fellow board members, that we have no choice here. The law must be reinstated."
"It will not be reinstated" a man said looking furious "and Ash Ketchum will present himself before us immediately."
"Come with me" Giovanni said as he walked out of the room and into his office. He waited until they were all in the room before continuing "take a look out of the window."
"What is he doing down there?" the particularly angry man asked "get him up here!"
"What he's doing is teaching the 55 along with their parents how to defend their minds from psychic intrusion," Giovanni said, looking at his nails in apparent boredom. "And in case I need to spell it out for you they will all walk away from Kanto with Ash should he be fired. So, the question you need to ask yourself, Hubert is, are the bribes you've been handing around like sweets worth the destruction of the Kanto League?"
"How dare you!" Hubert said in outrage as a few looked away shiftily.
"Do not take me for a fool, Hubert" Giovanni said, drawing himself up to his quite considerable height "I have known from the moment I met you what kind of man you are, and I know that you are responsible for the lifting of several of these laws." looking around he continued "Now when the vote was first cast I couldn't contest it. Now though I will. Should you not reinstate the laws then every business owner in Indigo Plateau that had a relative in this tournament has threatened to pull the funding they pay every year and let me tell you this, the closing of the Department Store alone will cripple Indigo Plateau. So, I suggest you go away and have a think, but don't think for too long eh, the final is meant to be in four days time and they want answers before then. Good day ladies and gentlemen."
Shuffling off the board members mumbled to themselves, some of them quite clearly scared of what was to come. Giovanni on the other hand smirked as he sat down and poured himself a glass of whiskey. Turning around in his chair he observed Ash moving through the crowd and raised a glass to him. They may not be on the best of terms at the minute but they both had a common goal, the preservation of the Indigo Plateau and all she meant to the people of Kanto.
Around the country though the statement had sent shockwaves throughout the Pokémon world. It had created a debate that would probably rage on for months but the fact the Kanto Champion had clearly taken a stand against the finalists of his own League for cheating had made the debate very one sided. It had sparked a conversation in every region to the point a conversation was happening on national TVs about whether it was right to allow psychics to even compete in tournaments. The psychic members of the Elite Four and the Gym Leaders in several regions had all released statements refuting that they had ever used such tactics in battle, which didn't really appease the masses as much as they thought they would but at least they had come out and defended themselves. Currently there was a feeling of major mistrust for them, everyone had read more about the battle between aura users and psychics than ever before sparking more debates. Cameron Palace and the Lucario Kingdom had released statements in support of Ash which added more fuel to the fire. If one thing was certain, it was that this problem was not going away anytime soon. By the time the final had come around the Kanto board had still not come to a decision believing it was all talk so the shareholders in key business filed motions of intent to withdraw from Indigo Plateau the day before the final. That it would cost an absolute fortune to relocate these businesses never crossed the minds of the owners, they were rich enough to not really feel the burn but it was the common man who worked at these businesses that were now protesting outside the main stadium. After all, a compensation package, while thoughtful, still wouldn't cover the cost of living at the Plateau with no job to go to.
It was one of the very few times Ash inwardly regretted not taking the League up on the offer of instant travel through an Alakazam but he would never own a psychic type so he was one of few that walked through the crowds that morning, chatting to several people as he entered the building.
"I've still not had any word myself" Ash had stated to a lady that was standing next to the doors of the lobby "It's not in my hands I'm afraid, the board were warned about what could happen several days ago. Obviously they thought people were bluffing and decided to call them on it."
The day of the final dawned and what should have been an exciting day for everyone involved was one filled with confusion. The whole lead up to the event was filled with nothing but speculation as to what was going to happen. As far as the media knew the final was still going to take place, it was far too late in the day to put a stop to that but how many would be there to watch it? That was the real question. There had never, since the main stadium was built, been an empty seat for the final of the Indigo League but it was very likely that the stadium would not be filled for this one.
Ash and Giovanni had had a few more meetings since his statement release to go over contingencies, just in case of a mass walk out or a boycott but given they didn't know what was going to happen they could only speculate.
"I won't be there for the final" Ash had told him, something which Giovanni suspected but dreaded "I can't call for change and then turn up a few days later and hand the trophy out as if nothing has happened. Not to them, I just won't. You'll have to get someone else to do it."
"I will do it" he said making a note on his pad "I suspected I would have to do it anyway. Just do me a favour and don't speak to the media or the people until this is sorted. The board are very stubborn, some might say stupid at times but only hitting them financially will see any change."
"Oh I know" Ash said "it's cost me a fortune to give away all those books but it's been worth it. How's your mind?"
"Mine is fine" Giovanni said looking up confused before realising what Ash meant "Oh, it's more than protected. I have my own Alakazam, have since I was in my teens and he routinely checks for any alterations. I have had no less than five attempted possessions over the years, all of them thwarted by him. Not only that but when Red started dating Delia he taught me a few techniques that let me know if something even brushes my mind. Your book has also helped in that regard. It's not fool proof, likely never will be but it's enough."
"Good" Ash said nodding before standing up "thank you for your words with the board. I know we don't see eye to eye right now, we likely never will on the subject of Silver but I still appreciate what you said." Bowing his head slightly he left a slightly puzzled looking Giovanni to contemplate the abrupt change of Ash's mood. Honestly the boy could be very Bi-Polar at times but he'd take what he could, after all for the League to run smoothly the Champion and President needed to work in harmony.
"The top story of the day" the news reporter said "members of the Kanto League Board have been seen entering the car of the Indigo Stadium for what many are saying are crisis talks ahead of the final which is due to take place at 3pm today. Ever since Wednesday afternoon when the Kanto Champion Ash Ketchum released his statement condemning the actions of several participants of the tournament there has been very little action seen.
Since yesterday morning however hundreds of workers at the Plateau have been protesting when it was brought to our attention that several businesses have threatened to pull out of Indigo Plateau citing the need to protect their own interests and business. We have yet to hear word directly from the owners but it's believed that Lady Priest and Lord Andrews are just two of those owners at the forefront of the relocation of their businesses who have filed motions against the league. The League President Giovanni Koroso released a statement this morning backing the Kanto Champion but stated the decision lies solely with the board and that the laws and rules are under review. He also stated that there would be no further comments from any League representative until a resolution had been sorted."
"Well that's progress at least" Red said from the counter top table "at least they can see that the owners mean business. It's a shame that the trainers' opinions don't seem to have mattered to them though."
"It's the way it is." Delia said, looking worried as she sent off her own email. "Hitting rich people in their wallets is the only way they'll listen. I've just had to clarify a wait and see email for Delias at the Plateau but I will follow Ash out of that place if need be."
"I'm pretty sure he'd be mad at you and then thank you" Red replied looking at her "You'll be fine though. Delias is an enormous success there so I'm sure your clientele will follow you."
"Oh I have no worries on that score. The Johto Board have been in touch asking about the potential of a third restaurant in either Goldenrod or Olivine but I'm reluctant given I'd have to travel there a lot to oversee it and with the new baby coming I just don't want to. Thankfully they understand but if The Kanto League Board messes this up I don't think I can afford not to move it."
"I can't wait for the Bullet Train extension to be finished" Red said "to be able to travel directly to Saffron from Viridian will be a godsend."
"It'll be a few years before that is finished but at least we know it's happening" Delia said "the construction of the station has been finished anyway, now it's just the High Speed Rail which crosses the country to start. But you're not wrong, getting to Saffron in five hours from Viridian and then onto Johto will be amazing. Having to fly to Saffron every time is knackering. And long."
"It will be nice." Red said "anyway I need to get going. Sam has asked me to help move some of his things into the storage unit in Blues house."
"Any news on if he's taking the job with Ash?" Delia asked.
"Not yet" Red said "however I feel he certainly wants to take the part, I just wonder what's holding him back."
"I think Sam has the right to drag his feet" Delia said "he's been working full time for over fifty years now and was likely looking forward to relaxing in his final years. To then have to go into more full time work? I'd be reluctant too."
"That's the thing" Red said "it isn't full time, it's hardly even part time to be honest but it's still work. I'll see if I can get anything from him."
Giovanni sat at his desk wondering just how this talk was going to go. It was likely going to take the entirety of the battle, something he was very unhappy with as he should be by rights on the field downstairs welcoming the crowds and the competitors to the final. Instead he was here waiting for the board to arrive for 'crisis' talks as the news reporter put it. Crisis was exactly the words he'd use, it was a catastrophe that should never have happened. Getting a buzzer from his secretary he stood, fixed his tie and walked into the boardroom where he sat down.
Looking around he noticed that some looked apprehensive, some looked reolute and some look resigned.
Joyce it seemed had taken the role of spokesperson. "We have decided not to change the laws."
Giovanni just laughed as he switched on the TV and unmuted it. The news was playing with the reports that the two biggest financers of the league had pulled out of staying in Indgo Plateau and the other two will likely be folloow suit.
"As you can see" Giovanni said "it won't matter what you decide. Indigo Plateau will cease to function anyway. Congratulations, I hope the bribes were worth it."
"We've had assurances that other financial backers will step in" Hunert said smugly.
"You can have as many assurances as you want Hubert" Giovanni said "the fact is everyone knows who is running this organisation and how corrupt you are, the League will not have a tournament any longer as the Elite Four and Champion will resign so Indigo Plateau will just become another city like Celadon or Saffron."
"It doesnt matter, we will create a new Elite Four and Champion." Hubert said dismissively.
"Which won't happen" Giovanni said smirking taking out a piece of paper from his folder and reading it aloud "I have spoken to some members of the Kanto Board and they have decided to no longer let anyone have use of their stadiums at the Plateau after this tournament, nor the use of any that are currently built in Kanto. Apparently Lord Andrews is one of those on the board, coincidentally he's the one who took my place so you will have to finance your own stadiums should you wish to create a new league, something which the Kanto Board is refusing to accommodate stating there are more than enough stadiums in Kanto, including state of the art ones already at Indigo Plateau and a perfectly functioning League in place. The Johto board and League board have also refused to accommodate any stadiums built around the area of Tohjo Falls as they are co-owned by both boards, the Orange League has also refused too as there isn't an island big enough to host a Major Tournament."
Looking up he saw the astonished faces from those he knew were for the rule changes. "Who here voted against keeping the current rules and laws?"
Six people held their hand up. "And abstained?" three more raised their hand. "So, we have eleven people who are for the rules staying?"
"No" a voice said sounding unhappy "I have changed my mind. I wish to have the old rules reinstated."
"Deborah!" Hubert shouted looking furious "remember what we talked about!"
"I have Hubert" she said looking him in the eyes "and I have changed my mind. You do what you want, I will not see the Plateaus demise on my watch. Not while I can stop it. I want you all to think about this, if this is allowed to go ahead we will be board members of nothing!"
"We wish to vote that way too" one of the three abstainers said "this is too important to sit on the fence."
Looking at the other two Giovanni received nods "so it's now a 10-10 vote. Excellent."
"Why?" Hubert asked.
"Are you forgetting what happens on tied votes Hubert?" he asked smirking "the President gets a vote to settle ties. I vote to change the rules back to what they were and to outlaw the ability of reading the opponents minds. I suggest those who voted for the original change sorts themselves out, no doubt Hubert has something on you all. I said it the other day and I'll say it again, you're a disgrace of a human being Hubert."
Standing up Giovanni shook his head and left walking to his office. Looking out he saw a stadium that wasn't even half filled as a battle was going on and sighed in resignation. A knock on his door brought him out his reverie.
"Come in" he said and was surprised when Deborah walked in. She was a very beautiful woman in her late fifties, blond hair, blue eyes with curves for days wearing jewellery that would likely feed the homeless around Kanto for years should she sell them. "Deborah, what can I do for you?"
"I fear I need your help." she said sitting down and playing with her wedding ring.
"Whatever marital problems you have with Lord Marshall are your own Deborah" he said making her look up in surprise "you're playing with your ring Deborah. I suggest you talk to Geoffrey before Hubert does."
"It's not what it seems" she said "we do not have a conventional marriage and we're both secure enough in our marriage to not let things get messy. We all know Gio how most deals are actually done at the board level but I fear that I have had one dalliances too many."
"Something again you need to talk to Geoffrey about" he said looking at her face "I sympathise with you, and I wish some deals could be done in different ways. My only son was borne out of such an incident and it's caused me nothing but pain ever since. Get ahead of this before Hubert does. On your way out I'd advise you speak to my secretary and take one of my nephews books on shielding your mind. Ash fears psychic influence helped get these laws changed and I'm inclined to agree with him given what has occurred here at the League."
Nodding she stood, straightened her back and walked out of the office. Sending Ash a message he sighed and headed downstairs to where the reporters were still gathered.
Hubert was furious as he took a seat in the back of his private limousine. He would get back at that bitch if it took him his lifetime. She might be a great lay but this betrayal would not be allowed to stand. Raising the screen he placed a video call and untightened his tie, sweating at the thought of the conversation he was about to have.
"Speak" a voice said as a blacked out picture came onto the screen.
"Giovanni had the rules repealed. He convinced not only the abstainers to vote with him but also the Kanto Board themselves to disallow any thought of a new league or board elsewhere. Lady Marshall defected and swung the vote."
"So you failed me" it said as Hubert saw a pair of purple eyes start glowing and he started clawing at his neck as he was choked through the screen. Less than a minute later Huberts scrambling hands ceased as he flopped back onto the seat, eyes wide open, dead as a dodo.
An Hour Earlier
Ash meanwhile exited the building and walked through the crowd of reporters gathered and called out Salamence saying in a clear voice "Rota". In one flap of her wings she rose and headed East. The reporters couldn't believe their ears though, for the Champion to abandon the final, hours before to go to somewhere people knew he hated was astounding and was possibly as big a scoop as his statement. It was pretty evident Ash had written off this year's tournament before it had even finished which made it even more important to them to try and find out just what was going on in the crisis meeting.
The flight to Rota was only an hour and half as it was due East from Indigo Plateau, the mountains that ran behind both places were the same mountain range so it was pretty easy to keep the direction once you started. Relaxing his constraints on his aura was always a very soothing thing for Ash, he had to keep a tight rein on it most times because it could become oppressive and overwhelming to a lot of people and he would likely be compelled to fight the two finalists if it was let loose and cause issues so relaxing it as he was flying was a wonderful feeling. It was like taking your socks and shoes off at night and putting your feet up Ash had told Nia. She replied that it must be 'like taking your bra off when you got home' but as Ash was anatomically impaired that way he wouldn't know but agreed anyway.
Lucario was currently standing next to Ilene and her baby as they sat in the Royal Box of their stadium. There was a big screen erected for the Kanto Final and pretty much all of Rota was on site ready to watch it. While they weren't particularly happy to witness two abominations as finalists they still felt compelled to watch in case any more breaking news happened, plus it was the final. It was one of the few times a year the citizens of Rota could celebrate their nationality as one people. Lucario was just in the middle of a conversation when he looked up, seemingly as every other Lucario did too. And while they were tense they weren't as concerned as they usually were.
"What's wrong Lucario?" Ilene asked, concerned "is something the matter?"
"Sir Ash is close" he said, leaping over the barrier and landing next to the screen. Luckily for the people of Rota the stadium could easily fit them all in and they did not have to use the battlefield for additional seating so it was clear. The crowd though were very confused when the Lucario walked onto the field and looked up, quickly being joined by two more and they could see the other Lucario at the entrances also looking tense. It was further compounded when every Aura Guardian in the area joined the Lucario. Most of them remembered the last time they acted like this and they all started muttering, fearing Ilene was about to be attacked again and wondered if they were in danger or what they could do to help.
Sir Riley had taken up station by Ilene's side and was also quite tense "why is he here? Do you know my Lady?"
"I think so yes" she said "he asked Lucario to look in the archives for something concerning the abominations and we granted it to him. Perhaps that's why he is here."
"I don't remember receiving that request" Riley said looking confused "I must have missed it."
"No, you didn't," she said burping her daughter "it was sent directly to Lucario who informed me."
"Am I not doing a good job of running Rota while you're on maternity?" He asked sounding annoyed.
"Of course you are" she said looking at him "Rota is in safe hands but I am still Queen Sir Riley, some things can only be authorised by myself."
"And yet I was not even informed" he said irritated "and yet again Lucario has gone above my head on an important matter."
"Your roles are the same Sir Riley" Ilene said arching an eyebrow at him "and at times very different. Sir Ash would likely never voluntarily contact you, for the reasons you already are aware of but we would foolish not to keep our lines open where Ash is concerned. Do not forget that he is not only the most gifted aura wielder in the world but also now Kanto Champion, someone of great influence."
Riley just looked mutinous at her words. He hated the fact she was right.
"You've seen what he's done over the last few days." She continued "we all watched those abominations make a farce of our League with seemingly no repercussions and yet with one fell swoop he has the entire world talking about how unethical they are as a people and what dangers they bring. I have heard reports of the other Leagues considering getting rid of their Elite Four members that claim the title of Psychic. He has brought about more change in the last few years than anyone has done since Sir Aaron nearly a millennia ago and he has highlighted just what a blight on the world the abominations are. For that he will always have our gratitude."
"He doesn't deserve our gratitude" Riley groused "I wish at times I had never interacted with him all those years ago and saved us all this trouble."
"What trouble?" She asked surprised before looking up at his face "Oh Riley, I am sorry for what I've put you through over the years. But Ash Ketchum was always destined to never be ours and always destined to become who he is."
"I'm tired of it" Riley said irritated "everywhere I go he is all anyone ever talks about. I've been supplanted by a Pokémon that should have perished centuries ago and been made to feel inferior when I have served Rota and you to the best of my ability. I fear I cannot do it much longer."
"What do you mean?" She asked concerned.
Looking down to the field he saw Ash land and be greeted by the crowd and Lucario. Turning to Ilene he sighed and held a hand to her face cupping her cheek breaking every rule a guardian had in the process. "I have always loved you my Queen. Always. And I thought I could accept that we were never meant to be because of who you are. I even tried my best to be supportive of your marriage even though it nearly broke me but I cannot do this any longer. When you return to your duties I will be resigning as First Knight of Rota and I will be heading to Sinnoh to grieve what might have been. Hopefully while there I can rediscover my love for life but as long as I remain here I will never be able to do so. I cannot live like this anymore." Finding courage he never thought he would ever have he kissed his Queen on the forehead and left her alone in the Royal Box and headed down to the stadium floor.
Ash and Lucario looked up at the box in confusion as they could both feel very strong emotions up there so it was a great surprise when Riley walked down, his aura swirling around him in flux. Something had happened to him emotionally for his aura to be acting like that. Nodding to them both Riley didn't even stop to say hello as he walked straight past them and down the tunnel that led under the ground and into the palace where he walked into the gym and started a workout.
Ilene could only sit in stunned silence. For the last 20 years she had of course known that she was Riley's destined mate but like her ancestor Queen Rin it was something that would never be able to happen and for all the stories that it was a 'true love' it was still a stain on Rota that they had yet to cleanse. The laws forbade it and given the outcome of what happened to that secret relationship and the subsequent secret child she knew anything like that happening again would likely destroy the monarchy. She had of course looked into getting the law changed, subtly of course but her court were pretty adamant that her future husband should be royalty in his own right. It was sad, but it was her life and it was the reality of being Queen of Rota. Marrying Roland was not something she was particularly happy with but he ticked every box that was needed for her court to be happy, all except being a respectable and reasonable human being which apparently wasn't a requirement. Him walking out on her and their child just showed people that marrying as a match rather than love was not all it was cracked up to be yet she knew her court would be unmoved as the heir being born was all that was required of such a union. Love never came into it as far as they were concerned.
Eventually she managed to pull herself together, walk down the stairs with Amara in her arms and greet the procession. The crowd seeing their Queen walk out stood as one in respect much to the amusement of Ash.
"Greetings Sir Ash" she said briefly showing her head.
"Ilene" he said neutrally "Congratulations on the birth of your heir. Amara correct?"
"Indeed," she said, smiling down at her beautiful daughter. It seemed her daughter was destined to look like her mother as when she opened her eyes she had the most startling green eyes on a rather pretty head tipped with a tuft of blonde hair.
Ash curious stepped forward causing the Lucario who flanked her to tense. Ignoring them he carefully moved the shawl covering the bottom of her face with a finger and smiled.
"She's very pretty" he said before taking a step back and raising an eyebrow in amusement at the guards "I was sorry to hear the news of Roland. Men like him disgust me."
"Thank you" she said nodding "you seem to be in the minority though."
"Surely no one can advocate for such a person?" Ash asked, confused "a man who leaves his wife and newly born daughter? He's scum of the highest order."
"My court is rather hopeful that he will return." she said, looking around at the crowd and seeing some rather nervous and angry faces. "I fear they feel it's just a minor incident that we can get past."
"Spoken like people who don't have to raise children on their own with no support." Ash said disgusted by them.
"Sadly it is our lot in life" Ilene said smiling sadly looking down at her daughter and kissing her on the head.
"Why?" Ash asked confused looking around "aren't you their Queen?" Don't they occupy their seats at your pleasure and not theirs? Seems to me to be a simple thing to resolve."
"Which would be?" She asked curiously.
"Get rid of them and appoint people who aren't stuck in their beliefs that traditions from centuries ago still apply today." Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I'm sure there's hundreds of people here willing to be progressive as well as preserve traditions. Just a thought. Anyway, Lucario, we need to talk. Urgently."
Lucario nodded and walked down the tunnel with Ash following him leaving some very scared courtiers as well as some quite excited common folk at what they heard. Ilene simply walked back to her box in contemplative silence.
As Lucario led him down a series of opulent tunnels they came to a fork with signage on the walls. To the left was the gym and library and to the right was "private quarters". Heading left they walked for half a minute before they heard a series of grunts ahead along with a terrific crash. Rushing forwards they entered the gym to see a Lucario go flying into a wall as well as a blue ball track it creating a mini explosion. While Lucario rushed forward to see to his brethren Ash rushed forwards and quickly engaged Riley who was far too gone to realise what was happening. Ash was quite stunned at just how good Riley was and he was utilising everything around him to quite a good standard. Ash was hard pressed until he figured out Riley's trick. It was after Ash watched him try to do a backflip on a wall to land behind him that Ash went on the attack and a quick kick to the sternum sent Riley skidding backwards before dashing forwards to engage in hand to hand combat.
"Your footwork needs improvement" Ash said as he moved his head sideways to evade a punch, "you focus too much on using your left leg to plant your stance" giving the left leg a quick kick Riley stumbled sideways and hopped before twirling and setting himself again. "You lead too much with your right hand so it's easy to telegraph a punch and counter. That's likely because you've trained with only the same partner for all these years which means countering Lucario would be quite easy too."
Looking over he saw Aaron's Lucario standing up and observing them while Riley's sat on the floor watching on nursing his arm.
"It's not a criticism by the way." Ash said relaxing his defensive stance "in fact should you sort out those minor things I'd class you as an outstanding fighter."
Bowing his head Ash walked out of the room with Lucario following leaving a curious Riley to wonder what just happened. When he saw his partner though he rushed forward apologising before helping him stand up and led him to the hospital ward.
"He's good" Ash said as they walked out of the room "and while it pains me to say it I can see why he's been a trainer for years."
"As you say though his footwork is shoddy" Lucario said nodding in agreement "and he's been far too focused on protecting the Queen to be a truly competent trainer. While the Queen couldn't be in safer hands the rest have been lacking. Thankfully the two years I've been here there has been significant improvements and the guardians have had their training restrictions lifted. We've had a very good influx of potential guardians this year which can only be a good thing."
"It can" Ash said "the abominations are far too comfortable for my liking. To try and take over my League under my very nose, aided by my own board, without me knowing has left me incredibly angry. However while there's steps being taken as we speak it's not them I need to speak to you about."
"Apprentice Hailee" Lucario said looking sharply at him.
"Before I went into Mt Silver I visited to see how she's getting along." Ash said "her development is incredible, the training you have provided for her is second to none and she's taken to it like a Ducklett to water. However I had misgivings on taking her into the mountain, not just because of her age but also because of who I'd have to take along with me. It seems I was correct in my fear as she has regularly been using that Ralts to pillage her parents minds and manipulate them into getting her own way. I only found out because she slipped and tried it on me."
"That's troubling" Lucario said sounding concerned "I've always been uneasy around her because of that Ralts. She was lucky it was on you and not me because I would not have suffered that Pokémon to continue existing."
"Something which I also told her." Ash said nodding "that is not what troubles me most however. When I returned to see them, they're currently at Silver Town for the upcoming Johto League by the way, I had words with the Ralts. I let it access to my mind."
"What did you discover?" He asked curiously.
"Ralts was indeed sent there to get close to her." Ash said grimly "however its mind was shielded when talking about whoever sent it. There are very few on this planet that can psychically protect against an aura user, especially one as gifted as I am. But if my guesses are correct then I fear it's not something I can combat, not just yet anyway."
"Is it something I need to worry about?" Lucario asked grimly. To hear Ash would struggle wasn't a good thing. "Maybe combined we could find out who it was."
"That's why I'm here." Ash said "if it is who I suspect then I am the only one who will know for certain considering everyone conveniently had their mind wiped of her memory before she buggered off. We're talking High Legendary, possibly Deity level interference Lucario. I just hope I'm wrong. Did you put aside any references of a dual wielder?"
"No" he said "but I know where they're located." Walking them through the library they stopped and nodded to the person sat behind the desk and into the section that was padlocked. The Librarian, who was a tall willowy woman with brown hair and brown eyes followed them slowly, something which confused Ash.
"She's very protective of everything in here" Lucario said with some amusement in his voice. "It's not personal."
"Fair enough" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "I suppose these are rather valuable given they're about the history of Rota."
"Exactly" Lucario said nodding as they reached a section and stopped in front of it looking around him in confusion "there were three folder boxes right here, the documents were inside. Where have they gone?"
"You mean they're not here?" Ash exclaimed in shock as he started pulling the boxes either side of the gap and looking at the titles as he placed them on the floor and table behind him.
The librarian hearing Ash's exclamation rushed forwards fully intending to tell him to be quiet in the library when she noticed Lucario looking under a nearby table or Ash looking behind boxes they pulled off the bookcase.
"Just what is going on here?" She asked angrily "I don't care who you are Sir Ash, you will treat my scrolls with the respect they deserve."
"Never mind that'" Ash said waving his hand dismissively "there's three boxes missing from this shelf. Where are they?"
"I can assure you there's no such thing." She said angrily.
"Do you think we're moving boxes for fun?" Ash asked as he replaced a few of the boxes and sure enough there was a gap where three folder boxes should have been.
"Where are the boxes?" She exclaimed, rushing forwards.
"Oh, if only someone would have thought of asking that question and looking" Ash said sarcastically.
The librarian just looked at him with contempt in her grey eyes.
"Who has access to the restricted library?" Ash asked her ignoring her irritation.
"Only myself, Riley, the Queen and Lucario has access to the restricted documents" she said "however with special permission, signed from one of the four of us you can gain access."
"Do you have a signing in book for those who do want access?" Ash asked.
"Certainly" she said "we have one for everyone who enters, regardless of what level of permission you have."
"I didn't sign it" Ash said confused as they walked back to the desk.
"I put both of your names down as you walked into the section." She said opening the huge book that was on her desk.
"When did you last look at them?" Ash asked Lucario as he let the librarian do her job.
"I haven't looked since I found out Hailee has a Ralts and found out there is precedence. Something I informed you about a few moons ago" Lucario said "after that I have been too busy to come back and look for them."
"So we have a timeframe then." Ash said, nodding before standing at her side as she scanned down the list.
"No, there's no one on here that shouldn't be" she said looking up. Ash however stopped his fingers on a name that the librarian had skipped over. Looking up he saw a Lucario by the door. "I don't know your name but can you go and get Riley, very urgently."
"What have you found?" Lucario asked as he saw his kin leave and run off out of the library. Looking at the list himself he paused "How did he get access?" he asked the Librarian.
"He's always had access," she replied.
"You've literally just said only four people had access." Ash said, looking at her.
"I forgot about him," she said, "but why would he take the boxes?"
"That's the question, isn't it?" Ash said as he looked up, sensing Riley hurrying through the door.
"Lucario was rather adamant that I leave my partner in the hospital Wing" Riley said, striding forwards "what is so urgent?"
"Hang on," Ash said, getting an idea. Taking out his Pokégear he rang Lorelei and after a few rings she answered.
"Ash? What can I do for you? Is everything OK?"
"Probably not" Ash said "I need you to cast your mind back. When the Ralts first appeared, was it before or after the Green Wave?"
"Before" she said after a few minutes "but not much before. Maybe a few days or so. Actually it was a few days after she received the Riolu from Rota, so that puts it around early June, why?"
"I have a bad feeling that Ralts arriving was intentional" he said "every document that pertains to the gift Hailee has has been stolen by an unknown person. Ironically just a day or so after I asked Rota for help with the ruins just North of Olivine. However, she gained Ralts a few weeks before I arrived at the ruins."
"Should I be concerned?" she asked, thinking about her daughter and the influence Ralts had on her."
"Yes" Ash said "I'll speak to you about it in person in a few weeks time as you never know who may be listening in but keep an eye on that Ralts. I have a feeling she was intentionally placed in Hailee's path and if it is who I believe it is she will be in for a world of hurt."
Turning the book around he pointed at a name gaining a surprised look from Riley.
"What was he doing here?" Ash asked Riley "I thought he left."
"He did but he came back a few weeks later claiming he'd left a few belongings he needed" Riley said "do you think it was him that took them?"
"I don't think it could have been anyone else." Ash said looking down at the name Roland.
"The Queen must be informed" the librarian said looking expectantly at Riley.
"She will be" he said nodding "just not by me. Not anymore. I handed in my notice to leave a few hours ago."
"That's very surprising" Lucario said "I thought you'd sworn an oath."
"And I have upheld that Oath for nearly twenty years now" Riley said "but I fear I cannot continue to do so. My reasons are my own Lucario and I will not be swayed from my decision."
"Where will I be able to find you?" he asked,
"I have a home on Iron Island" he said "It's where I trained as a young man, just North of Canalave City in Sinnoh. It's accessible only by boat from the mainland so it will be an ideal place for me to live out my remaining days."
"You make it sound as if you're dying" Ash observed.
"In a way I am" Riley said shrugging his shoulders "as I have been for twenty years. Anyway, if you should recover the documents in the meantime please let The Queen know." nodding he did an about turn and walked out, presumably to go and see to his Lucario.
"Poor man," the librarian said, shaking her head.
"Why?" Ash asked.
"It's very well documented what happens to a guardian who denies themselves their mate" she said sitting down and sighing "there's a reason we have that room underneath the Palace after all."
"Is that it's true purpose?" Ash asked.
"Yes" she said, nodding "of course we tell people a different story, after all if we told every guardian that if you deny yourself your true mate your aura will turn on you then very few would want to pursue this life. Not finding them is almost a relief that finding them and choosing not to act on it."
"Huh" Ash said "I never thought I'd ever feel sorry for that man but I couldn't imagine my life where I denied myself my mate. I mean I was worried it'd be someone I insulted earlier in my Pokémon Career as my luck was just that shit at the time. Thankfully I met Nia and my aura settled because those pulses every day were quite painful."
"My husband said the same," she said, nodding "it was very lucky that we met through him visiting here while doing his pilgrimage."
"Did you get a choice in that?" Ash asked curiously "I mean it must be strange to fall for someone who was basically passing through."
"It's a bit different here Sir Ash" she said "those that have lived here their entire life know how important it is for a guardian to be one with their aura. I know it may be a strange concept to those outside of our city but I've never felt so loved by an individual like I do my husband. He is the most honourable person I have ever met. Ask yourself this, did yours have a choice?"
"Of course," he said, nodding. "I explained everything that comes with being a guardian or in my case an aura wielder and she still chose to be with me. I'll be honest there's more worry of her being with me because of my life than anything aura will bring to the relationship."
"Exactly my point" she said "only I already knew the pros and cons of such a life so an explanation wasn't necessary."
"Fair enough" Ash said nodding before turning to Lucario "well it looks like it was a wasted journey here which I can only apologise for, however it's very concerning that Roland may have stolen those documents. Why would Unova need information on aura or psychic? Does this place have any security cameras?"
"We do but they'll likely have been wiped by now, It's September after all" Lucario said.
"No they won't" the librarian said "we only overwrite them every six months. I'll get on to the head of our security and have him look. We have a date logged so it should be relatively simple to find out.
"If you can" Ash said writing down his email address "can you let me know what you can. It's incredibly important that I find that information or recover the documents. I'll see if I can get in touch with the Elite Four in Unova to see what's going on but given I've not been there and I'm unlikely to go there I doubt I'll get anything useful from them."
Nodding to the librarian the two aura users walked out of the library and headed to the canteen area and chatted amiably about the way life was panning out for them both. Hearing his message alert go off he ignored it for now and he carried on chatting and was soon joined by other Lucarios who strangely kept their distance from him. Ignoring it he finished his meal and stood up and to his astonishment every Lucario and Guardian who was sat in the canteen did so as well.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"Have you not heard?" a Guardian asked "the news has just been released that the Kanto Pokémon League Board have reinstated the laws they repealed. Only two thousand people were in the stadium to watch the final, a record low and something which was likely a major part in the decision. Your statement has made psychic intrusion in battles illegal once again." Falling to her knee she bowed her head something which was replicated by every guardian and Lucario in the area.
Riley was heading to the canteen when he stopped in the doorway as he heard the news. Seeing every guardian bow to him, to a man that that had severe distain he for Rota was the last straw and he turned around and headed to his room where he began to pack up. Recalling his Lucario who was trying to change his mind he slung it over his back and walked down the corridor, passing by the private quarters of a few guardians and walking into the main chambers of Ilene who was putting her child in the cot. Looking up surprised her gaze softened until she saw the bag on his shoulder and grew concerned.
"Now?" she asked tearing up "you're leaving me now?"
"I am leaving Rota" he said bowing and nodding to the two guard Lucario who respectfully left the room and stood guard outside. "I cannot stay here any longer. I have just seen every guardian kneel to Ash Ketchum and I cannot bear it any longer."
"You need to get past this hatred for Ash" Ilene said walking over to him and putting her hand to his cheek, smiling when he leaned into it "You are needed here, more than you know."
"It matters not" he said opening his eyes and looking at her and stepping back casing her hand to fall down "I have been lost for a long time now, but have been content to be by your side where I felt I was needed most. But it is no longer enough for me, I am diminishing and I will not let you see my life ebb in front of you." Bowing to her he stood up and turned around and began to walk away.
"Wait!" Ilene said panicking causing him to stop in place with his head bowed "please don't leave me. I have no one Riley."
"You have Rota" he said standing up and setting himself. Before she could react he turned around, marched to her and swept her up into a huge kiss pouring every single emotion he could into it before dropping his forehead to hers "goodbye my Queen. It has been the best life being by your side. You are very loved." Letting her go he marched to the door and walked down the corridor not acknowledging anyone until he walked out onto the stadium field where Ash and Lucario were waiting.
"So this is it?" Ash asked looking at him searchingly "you're leaving then?"
"I am" Riley replied confused as to how he knew "I will not allow my aura to diminish in front of her. I don't expect you to understand Sir Ash, not do I care if you do but I will see out my days where I know I will not cause anyone any pain. I've never liked your attitude Ash, I've never liked what you stood for and the distain you showed Ilene was always something that disgusted me but your fight against the abominations, driving them out of Saffron and now the League has been something I never thought I would get to see in my life so for that you have my gratitude. I truly hope your fight will continue until they are no more." Holding his hand out Ash looked curiously at him searching for any deception but could find none. Taking it he shook his hand briefly before bowing "Goodbye Sir Ash. Goodbye Sir Lucario."
As one they bowed briefly to him "Goodbye Sir Riley."
Nodding he stood tall and released a Pidgeot and climbed aboard "Vermillion City Pidgeot, take your time." as Pidgeot flared her wings she flapped a few times and headed South and was soon out of sight. Ash and Lucario looked around as they heard Ilene come running out onto the field, shouting Rileys name and saw him disappear on the horizon, collapsing to her knees crying her heart out when he didn't come back.