Ash Ketchum the Pokégamer (Complete overhaul) Chapter 10, a pokémon fanfic

(:AN: I will nickname any new pokemon Ash catches from now on, his cannon pokemon will not have nick names. maybe, I am open for pokemon suggestions and nickname suggestions.:)

"So, who are you using for the exams?" Pikachu asked, lounging on Ash's bed as the boy packed his bag. It had been a full week since Ash had completed his Kanto Pokémon captures.

"Charmeleon," Ash replied with a snort. "He's been itching for some real action. Says the goblins are getting weaker and... well, he's not exactly a fan of goblin flesh."

"Wait, hold up!" Pikachu gasped, eyes wide with mock horror. "He's actually bored of killing? The world must be ending!"

"Not of killing—just killing goblins," Ash clarified, rolling his eyes. "Plus, he wants to evolve fast. He really misses flying."

Pikachu snickered. "So he's basically like a Bagon? Dreaming of flying and grumbling about it every day?"

"Pretty much," Ash said, zipping up his bag. "Except add fighting, burning, destroying, and killing to that list. But yeah, you're not wrong."

Pikachu shook his head with a laugh. "Charmeleon: part dragon, part fire hazard, full chaos."

"So, who else are you taking?" Pikachu asked, tilting his head.

"Elysia, Butterfree, Kingler, Cyan, and Eilie," Ash listed off casually, closing his bag. "I can't use you, though. You kind of traumatized everyone last time."

Pikachu blinked, then rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "I mean... I can't deny that."

Ash smirked, giving Pikachu a playful shove. "Cyan and Eilie didn't make as big of an impact as you, but they're still strong. Plus, I need variety. Not everyone can handle a lightning-powered murder mouse."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," Pikachu joked, puffing out his chest. "But yeah, fair point. What's the plan? Burn, freeze, and crush everything in sight?"

"Pretty much," Ash said with a chuckle. "You know me—keep it simple and chaotic."

"And loud. Can't forget loud," Pikachu quipped, hopping onto Ash's shoulder as they headed out. "You wouldn't be you without making a scene."

"Hey, last time it wasn't me who made a scene," Ash said indignantly as they made their way toward the teleport station.

Pikachu raised an eyebrow but didn't push the point. "Sure, if you say so."

Ash smirked but let the conversation drop as they stepped into the teleport station. The familiar hum of energy surrounded them, and within moments, they materialized in the Viridian City station.

Almost immediately, Ash tensed. Something was off. He couldn't quite put his finger on it at first, but the unease settled in his chest like a lead weight.

"What's wrong?" Pikachu whispered, picking up on Ash's sudden change in demeanor.

Ash scanned the room, his eyes narrowing. "I've been in and out of this place enough to know all the employees here, but today... none of these faces are familiar."

Pikachu's ears twitched, and he whispered back, "You think—"

"I know," Ash interrupted, his tone grim. "This is it. Team Rocket finally took the bait."

It seemed the commotion his clone had caused a week ago had done its job—though perhaps too well. The station was swarming with unfamiliar personnel, and Ash could feel their gazes following him and Pikachu as they walked out.

All throughout the city, Rocket grunts were stationed at strategic points, keeping a close eye on his every move. It was obvious they weren't trying to hide their presence—they wanted him to know they were watching.

Even the academy felt different. The atmosphere was oppressive, suffocating, as if the building itself knew it was under Team Rocket's control.

"You think they're planning something here?" Pikachu asked, keeping his voice low.

"No doubt about it," Ash muttered, his jaw tightening. "But if they think they can scare me off, they're in for a rude awakening."

Pikachu grinned, sparks dancing across his cheeks. "That's the spirit. So... chaos now, or do we wait for them to make the first move?"

Ash smirked, his eyes glinting dangerously. "Let's see how long they can keep up the act. For now, we play it cool. But when they slip..."

"They won't know what hit 'em," Pikachu finished, sharing his trainer's determination.

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Ash entered his classroom, set his bag down, and immediately made his way to the first examination room: the nurse's office. This was where the initial evaluation took place—a meticulous assessment of a trainer's care for their Pokémon.

The examination wasn't just about appearances or surface-level health. The judges, which included the academy's nurse and a couple of professional Pokémon researchers, graded trainers on the overall health condition of their Pokémon as well as their Effort Values (EVs) and Individual Values (IVs). These factors provided a deep insight into how well a trainer had raised their team.

To maintain fairness and secrecy, the process was done one by one, ensuring that no trainer could get a sneak peek at another's team.

"Next!" the nurse called, her clipboard in hand.

Ash stepped forward confidently, handing over Charmeleon's Poké Ball first. The nurse released the Pokémon, and Charmeleon emerged, immediately flexing his claws and looking around like he was ready to fight the nearest opponent.

The nurse gave a small, amused smile before beginning her assessment. As she scanned Charmeleon with a specialized device, one of the researchers commented, "This guy's got impressive muscle density for his size. He's been through some serious training, hasn't he?"

Ash smirked. "You could say that. Charmeleon's been... motivated."

Charmeleon snorted, small embers escaping his nostrils as if to say, "Motivated? Try unstoppable."

The nurse raised an eyebrow as the readings for his EVs and IVs came in. "These are almost maxed out. He's a powerhouse in the making."

"Almost? Guess I still have work to do," Ash joked, though the pride in his voice was evident.

Charmeleon gave a satisfied growl as the nurse handed the Poké Ball back. One by one, Ash submitted the rest of his team for evaluation, each receiving similar praise.

As the examination concluded, the nurse looked at Ash with a knowing smile. "Your Pokémon are in phenomenal condition. Whoever you face in battle better be ready for a challenge."

Ash grinned. "They'll need more than luck to keep up."

With the first stage of the exam complete, he left the office, ready to face whatever came next.

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The next exam was the Trainer's Evaluation—a rigorous test designed to assess how prepared trainers were for months, or even years, of travel. Despite this being the students' first year at the academy, the tasks were grueling, meant to push them to their limits.

The evaluation consisted of multiple stages: rock climbing, swimming, running, diving, Pokémon riding, Pokémon flying, Pokémon surfing, and underwater diving. Each test simulated challenges trainers might face on their journeys.

Rock Climbing

The first task involved scaling a large boulder. It was intentionally designed to be just big enough to cause significant bruises if someone fell but not enough to break bones—unless, of course, they were unlucky and landed headfirst.

For Ash, the task was laughably simple. His physical capabilities, honed far beyond normal human limits, made the climb effortless. He zipped up the rock face with such ease that some of his classmates gawked, murmuring, "Is he even human?" Ash, hearing them, simply smirked as he reached the top and flipped down in a fluid motion.

Swimming, Running, and Diving

Next, the students were teleported outside the academy to a rocky terrain with a small lake. Here, they had to:

1. Swim across the lake,

2. Sprint 100 meters through the rocky area, and

3. Dive underwater to retrieve five flags as proof of completion.

Ash dove into the water, his strokes clean and powerful. As he reached the other side, he immediately transitioned into a sprint, his movements smooth despite the uneven terrain. His speed left the others in the dust, and by the time he reached the diving section, he was already way ahead.

Underwater, he moved with practiced precision, snatching up the flags one by one.

After surfacing, he jogged back to the starting point, where the examiners nodded in approval.

"Show-off," Pikachu muttered from the sidelines, though there was a hint of pride in his voice.

Pokémon Travel Tests

The final series of tests focused on how trainers handled traveling with Pokémon. The academy had provided standard Pokémon for each student, but Ash chose to use his own.

Pokémon Riding

For this section, Ash called out his Tauros, specifically the leader of the herd. The large, battle-hardened Tauros snorted and pawed the ground, ready for action. Ash mounted him with ease, and as the whistle blew, the pair charged forward with unrivaled speed and coordination, weaving through the course flawlessly.

Pokémon Flying

Ash used Eilie, who transformed into a majestic Pidgeot for the task. She soared gracefully through the skies, navigating the checkpoints with sharp turns and dives. Other students struggled to keep their academy-provided Pokémon under control, but Ash and Eilie moved in perfect sync, completing the course in record time.

Pokémon Surfing and Diving

Finally, Ash summoned Lapras for the surfing and diving segment. Her sleek form cut through the water effortlessly as Ash guided her through the surfing course. For the diving portion, Lapras submerged, allowing Ash to retrieve the required items with her support. Her calm demeanor and Ash's efficiency made the task look easy.

As Ash wrapped up the final test, some of his classmates stared in awe while others grumbled under their breath, clearly irritated by his exceptional performance.

One of the examiners jotted down notes, glancing at Ash with a raised brow. "He makes this look like child's play," they whispered to their colleague.

Ash, overhearing, shrugged. "I just have good partners." He gave Lapras a pat, earning a happy trill in return.

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For the final test, the students were teleported back to the academy for the Battle Portion—a test of raw skill and strategy.

This portion was structured so that juniors faced off against seniors of the same rank. If the junior managed to deal significant damage to their opponent's Pokémon, they would still earn good points even in defeat. However, a senior losing outright would result in an automatic failing grade.

The battles proceeded according to the rankings. The 30th-ranked junior battled the 30th-ranked senior, and so on. As the top-ranked student in Class 1-A, Ash was set to face the top-ranked student of Class 2-A—or so he thought.

Instead, a series of convenient misfortunes occurred. The number one students from Classes 2-A, 3-A, and 4-A had all mysteriously fallen ill, suffered injuries, or encountered "accidents" involving their Pokémon. The substitute instructors—none of whom were their usual teachers—were unusually eager to pair Ash with the number one student of Class 5-A.

Ash's instincts screamed that this was no coincidence. Team Rocket was pulling strings behind the scenes. They clearly intended for something to go wrong during his battle—perhaps an "accident" that would severely harm or even kill one of his Pokémon.

Ash's expression shifted. The usual warmth and light in his eyes dimmed, replaced by an unsettling calm. His mind became razor-focused, emotions drained entirely.

They want to hurt my family? he thought, his inner voice as cold as ice. Let's see who ends up getting hurt.

A bloodthirsty grin spread across his face, sending a chill through Pikachu and the nearby staff who happened to catch a glimpse of it.

As Ash headed to the battlefield, he mentally ran through his options. His battle roster was already set, but he needed to be strategic. The opponent, ranked number one in Class 5-A, was bound to be tough—or, at the very least, equipped with Pokémon strong enough to make the match dangerous.

He looked down at his hand, where he held six Poké Balls.

"Be ready, guys," Ash muttered, his voice low but carrying an edge. "This isn't just a battle—it's a trap."

Pikachu nodded from his shoulder, sparks crackling from his cheeks. "Let them try," he said fiercely. "They'll regret messing with us."

Ash smirked. "That's the plan."

As he stepped onto the battlefield, the crowd's murmurs rose. His opponent—a tall, confident senior with a smug expression—stood across from him, already holding his first Poké Ball. The senior's stance screamed arrogance, but Ash could see the faint nervous glances toward the substitute instructors watching from the sidelines.

The match was about to begin. But this wasn't just another test anymore—it was war.

Marcus stood on the opposite side of the battlefield, his confident smirk almost daring Ash to make the first move. An instructor stepped between them, clipboard in hand, and declared the rules.

"This will be a six-on-six battle between Marcus Duvel of Class 5-A and Ash Ketchum of Class 1-A! Standard League tournament rules apply. All held items are permitted, only three healing items of any kind may be used, and switching is allowed, only four moves per pokemon is allowed. Let the battle begin!"

"Charmeleon, I choose you!" Ash called, releasing his fiery partner onto the field.

"Go, Charizard!" Marcus responded, sending out a much larger, battle-hardened version of Ash's Pokémon.

The two Fire-types landed with a thud, their claws scraping against the ground as they sized each other up. Ash's gaze instantly locked onto Charizard's necklace—a crude pendant holding what looked like a partially eaten fruit. His eyes narrowed as recognition struck.

Leftovers.

Leftovers was a rare and invaluable held item, capable of gradually healing its user during battle. It was made from an incredibly scarce fruit that, for reasons no one fully understood, only worked once partially eaten by certain Pokémon like Snorlax. The catch? Getting a Snorlax to stop eating before devouring the whole fruit was a Herculean task in itself. That challenge, combined with the item's effects, made Leftovers absurdly expensive and difficult to obtain.

Ash smirked slightly. Of course Marcus would flex something that rare. Let's see how well he can use it.

Charmeleon narrowed his eyes, his fiery tail flicking with agitation. "A Charizard against me? Such arrogance," he growled, his voice dripping with disdain. He wasn't just any Charmeleon; his memories carried the weight of a lifetime spent in Charicific Valley, battling countless Charizards, each encounter forging him into a living testament to strength and strategy.

Charmeleon had faced thousands of them and emerged victorious time and time again, eventually becoming the strongest Charizard of them all. Even now, in his pre-evolved state, he carried that expertise, knowing every nuance of a Charizard's power—and, more importantly, their vulnerabilities.

The neck, eyes, horns, ears, and tail flame—those were the glaring weak points of every Charizard, no matter how seasoned or powerful. Charmeleon's gaze hardened, already formulating a plan. To Marcus's Charizard, this was just another battle. To Charmeleon, it was a statement.

Ash used Analysis on the Charizard.

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Charizard

Lvl:- 44

Info:- Charizard is a brutal and ruthless predator, using its fiery breath to reduce anything in its path to ashes. With flames hot enough to melt rock, it leaves scorched earth wherever it flies, showing no mercy to those who dare challenge it. Known to incinerate its prey in seconds, Charizard's savagery is matched only by its relentless pursuit of dominance, often burning entire regions to the ground in fits of rage.

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'Level 44—that's impressive,' Ash thought, his gaze steady. 'It usually takes years to train a Pokémon to that level. Too bad it's not even his own Pokémon.'

"Charizard, Flamethrower!" Marcus shouted.

"Charmeleon, Ground Run!" Ash countered, his tone calm yet commanding.

The winged draconic lizard unleashed a roaring stream of flames, but Charmeleon darted nimbly to the side, evading with practiced precision. His claws gleamed metallic as he slammed one hand into the dirt, carving through the ground. Though the soil slowed him slightly, his speed and agility were more than enough to outmaneuver the Flamethrowers raining down on him.

Once he closed the gap, Charmeleon made his move, flinging a calculated spray of dirt directly into the Charizard's eyes. The larger dragon snarled in frustration, snapping his jaws shut as his sight was obscured. He thrashed wildly, blinded and agitated.

Most Charizards could shrug off a bit of sand in the face with little more than mild irritation. But Ground Run, one of Ash's personally invented techniques, was no ordinary sand attack.

The technique relied on precision and creativity. Charmeleon used Metal Claw to dig into the earth, deliberately breaking off minuscule shards of metal from his claws. These sharp fragments, combined with tiny pebbles and a heavy disguise of loose sand, were flung at the opponent in a deceptive mix. The true brilliance of Ground Run lay in its aftermath:

The sharp shards sliced into the sensitive skin of the eyelids and cornea, while the sand lodged itself underneath, amplifying the irritation to unbearable levels. The combination wasn't just disorienting—it inflicted intense pain and had the potential to cause permanent damage if left unchecked.

Charmeleon watched with cold efficiency as the Charizard stumbled, his every thrash betraying his vulnerability.

"Hey, ref," Ash called out, his tone deceptively casual. "If Charizard accidentally harms or kills my Pokémon, Marcus would be charged for the crime, right?"

The referee instructor nodded, albeit with a touch of unease.

"And that applies to me too, doesn't it?" Ash asked, his otherwise emotionless voice somehow laced with a hint of glee.

The instructor hesitated but nodded again.

"Good to know," Ash replied, his lips twitching as if suppressing a grin.

"Charizard, what are you doing?! Use Slash!" Marcus barked, oblivious to just how damaged his Pokémon already was.

Charizard growled, a deep, guttural sound of defiance. His frustration mounted, and he outright disobeyed his trainer. The searing pain from Ground Run had taken its toll, and with every passing second, the agony twisted into rage. In his fury, Charizard did what came naturally—he burned.

A roaring Flamethrower erupted from his maw, the inferno spraying wildly in every direction.

Charmeleon retreated to Ash's side, instinctively seeking safety as one stray stream of fire veered their way. But before it could reach them, Pikachu leapt into action, a shimmering barrier of Protect materializing in time to block the attack.

"What the fuck, Marcus?!" Ash exclaimed, his voice dripping with mock outrage. "You can't even control your own Charizard! This has to be grounds for disqualification, right?" His gaze shifted to the referee, faux indignation plastered across his face.

The referee stammered, looking from Ash to the rampaging Charizard. "C-Charizard is disqualified from the match!"

Marcus's face turned red. "No! My Charizard's just confused! He'll calm down in a moment!"

As if to prove him wrong, Charizard let loose another Flamethrower, this one aimed squarely at Marcus himself. With a yelp, Marcus ducked, barely avoiding the blaze as it singed the air above him.

The gathered students murmured among themselves, their whispers quickly escalating into full-blown gossip.

"Tsk, fine!" Marcus hissed, his face contorted in anger as he recalled his Charizard. He glared at the Pokéball in his hand, his expression dark with resentment. Ash's sharp eyes caught the subtle clench of Marcus's fist, and it was obvious to him that Marcus would take out his fury on the Pokémon later.

CAsh said nothing, but the flicker of cold anger in his eyes spoke volumes.

It was an unspoken yet universal rule among trainers: ruthlessness on the battlefield was not just accepted—it was expected. Hesitation in commanding an attack, even one that could prove deadly, often marked the difference between victory and defeat. But outside the heat of combat, this ruthlessness had no place. Trainers were expected to treat their Pokémon with compassion, providing care and respect regardless of a battle's outcome.

To Ash, this rule wasn't just a guideline; it was a principle etched into his very being. A trainer who failed to protect and nurture their Pokémon outside of battle was unworthy of commanding them in the first place. As his eyes lingered on Marcus's clenched fist, Ash's simmering anger wasn't just for the Charizard—it was for every Pokémon that had ever been failed by a trainer like him.

Ash said nothing, but the flicker of cold anger in his eyes spoke volumes.

"Rhydon, crush them!" Marcus roared as his Rhydon landed with a heavy thump, sending a small tremor through the battlefield.

Ash's expression didn't change, but his mind was racing. So now he's outright aiming for the kill. Typical.

"Charmeleon, return!" Ash called, recalling the fire lizard before pulling out another Poké Ball. "Kingler, I choose you!"

With a flash of light, Ash's massive Kingler emerged, towering as tall as Ash himself. His landing made an equally heavy impact, his sheer size and presence intimidating the crowd.

Marcus wasted no time. "Horn Drill!" he commanded, his tone dripping with desperation.

So predictable, Ash thought, his mind already calculating. Horn Drill, though notoriously inaccurate, was a one-hit knockout move when it connected. Against a standard Kingler—big, bulky, and slow—it was a dangerous tactic. Against his Kingler, however? Another story entirely.

"Jump and Crabhammer!" Ash barked.

Rhydon charged, its horn spinning furiously as it aimed straight for Kingler's chest. But Kingler was ready. Just as Rhydon closed in, Kingler tensed his powerful legs and leapt high into the air, a feat that had the crowd gasping.

Before Rhydon could react, Kingler brought his massive claw down with the force of a sledgehammer, targeting the base of Rhydon's horn. The impact reverberated like a crack of thunder.

The force shattered Rhydon's sensitive horn, a critical organ for its attacks, and sent a web of cracks across its rocky body. The Ground/Rock-type let out a guttural groan before collapsing in a heap, completely unconscious.

The battlefield fell silent for a moment, save for the faint hum of residual energy from Kingler's claw. Ash smirked, his voice calm but cutting as he glanced at Marcus.

"Better luck next time, Marcus. If you're going to try to crush someone, make sure it's not yourself."

"I'll show you!" Marcus growled through gritted teeth, his frustration bubbling over as he tossed out another Poké Ball. A flash of light revealed a Victreebel, its sharp leaves glinting menacingly under the sun, and its piercing cry filling the air.

Ash smirked, unfazed. "Kingler, return!" He held out another Poké Ball. "Let's see how you plan to show me. Butterfree, I choose you!"

The luxury ball opened, and Ash's Butterfree emerged with a dazzling display. He gracefully hovered in the air, his massive wings beating in a steady rhythm, shedding a fine, sparkling dust that caught the light and shimmered like stardust. His majestic appearance left many of the onlookers momentarily awestruck.

Butterfree was far from ordinary—his size alone made that obvious. He was easily double the size of a typical Butterfree, and his aura practically demanded attention. His calm yet regal demeanor only added to the spectacle.

Marcus sneered, masking his growing unease. "A Butterfree? Really? I'll shred it like confetti!"

Ash chuckled, his tone light but mocking. "Oh, you can try, Marcus. But trust me, you'll regret underestimating him."

Butterfree tilted his head slightly, his large, vibrant eyes gleaming with intelligence. The battlefield was his canvas, and Marcus's Victreebel? Just another stroke of paint in his masterpiece.

Disregarding Ash's warning as nonsense, Marcus barked his commands. It seemed he'd conveniently forgotten who had been dominating this match so far.

"Victreebel, Sludge Bomb, then Leaf Storm!"

Victreebel unleashed a barrage of large, poisonous blobs before summoning a swirling storm of razor-sharp leaves that wrapped around the toxins. The combination move created a toxic hurricane, its lethal beauty whipping across the battlefield.

"Protect!" Ash called out calmly.

Butterfree summoned a glowing green barrier just as the poison-leaf tornado crashed against it. The attack dispersed harmlessly, scattering ineffectively across the ground. Marcus's jaw tightened, but he didn't let up.

"Razor Leaf, Leaf Blade tactic—now!"

Victreebel launched a flurry of razor-sharp leaves, forcing Butterfree to dodge to the side. But that was precisely what Marcus had been waiting for. Victreebel lunged with glowing, blade-like leaves extending from his limbs, aiming to slice Butterfree mid-flight.

Butterfree reacted with stunning precision. Dodging the first few slashes, he quickly countered by spitting a sticky String Shot, wrapping Victreebel in layer after layer of silk until the Grass/Poison-type resembled a squirming cocoon. Before Marcus could shout another order, Butterfree followed up with a powerful Gust, sending Victreebel hurtling skyward.

Victreebel slashed desperately with Leaf Blade, breaking free of his bindings just in time to realize the horrifying truth: he was now twenty meters above the ground. For a Pokémon of his level, the fall wouldn't be fatal—but it would still hurt. A lot.

Butterfree hovered serenely, watching his opponent flail mid-air. Marcus's face twisted into a mix of anger and panic as he fumbled to issue his next command.

"Enjoy the view while it lasts," Ash quipped, his voice carrying an edge of mockery. "The landing's gonna be rough."

Victreebel landed with a wet splat, his back hitting the ground with a sickening sound. Although his plant-like body remained intact, several tears marred his backside, leaking a mixture of green blood and digestive fluids. The purple poison from his body mixed with the other fluids, pooling ominously on the battlefield.

Ash tilted his head, his expression one of mild amusement. "I think it's about time to give up, Marcus~" he sing-songed, his tone deliberately mocking.

"You shut your little trap, you brat!" Marcus snarled as he hastily recalled his Pokémon, his fists clenched tightly. His entire body radiated seething anger, his pride in shambles.

Ash raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching into a smirk. "Oops, it seems someone just realized how incompetent they are," he said, loud enough for everyone to hear. "Now he wants to throw a little temper tantrum. Maybe if you cry hard enough, your mama will come back to kiss it better!"

The older students snickered, whispers spreading among them like wildfire. Even Marcus's own classmates were murmuring behind their hands, shooting glances his way. Marcus's face darkened further, his expression a mix of humiliation and rage.

Pikachu leaned in close, whispering something into Ash's ear.

Ash's eyes widened for a moment, then he grinned wickedly, clearly not understanding the full implication of what Pikachu had suggested but running with it anyway. "Oh, sorry!" he called out theatrically. "She won't be able to come—she's tired from servicing me all night long!"

There was a moment of stunned silence, followed by a cacophony of reactions. Gasps, stifled laughter, and a few muffled exclamations echoed across the battlefield. Marcus's face turned beet red, his expression a twisted mask of embarrassment and unbridled fury.

Ash, completely oblivious to the weight of his words, chuckled to himself, thinking, "Wow, Pikachu's sense of humor is top-tier."

"WHY YOU LITTLE!" Marcus disgaurded his poke ball and ran to Ash to punch him.

Ash's smirk never faltered as he watched Marcus storm toward him, fists clenched and eyes blazing with unrestrained rage. In that moment, Ash's mind played out two scenarios:

Option one: take the punch, play the victim, and rake in sympathy points.

Option two: knock him out cold and cement myself as the first-year who KO'd the top fifth-year student.

The choice was obvious.

Before Marcus could even comprehend what was happening, Ash's foot connected with the side of his face in a swift, decisive strike. The impact echoed through the arena, silencing the murmurs and gasps of the crowd.

Marcus crumpled to the ground like a sack of potatoes, completely unconscious. A couple of his teeth skittered across the battlefield, adding insult to injury.

Ash casually straightened his stance, dusting off his hands like he'd just taken out the trash. He glanced at the stunned referee, who was frozen in shock, before turning to the rest of the audience with a cocky shrug. "Well, he wanted to see stars. I just helped him get there faster."

The younger students erupted into cheers and laughter, while the older students exchanged wide-eyed looks, clearly shaken. Ash wasn't just the top of Class 1-A anymore—he was the name everyone would be whispering for days.

Ash turned to the referee, snapping them out of their stupor. "I believe there's a rule about losing control and attacking your opponent being grounds for disqualification, isn't there?" he asked, his calm voice cutting through the lingering tension.

The referee, visibly flustered, scrambled to think of a response. Normally, Marcus would have been disqualified, but this situation was far from normal. His orders had been clear—Ash was supposed to lose, and his Pokémon were meant to be severely injured, ruining both his reputation and morale. But things had spiraled completely out of control.

Meanwhile, whispers spread among the students. Many were openly praising Ash, and even his previously hostile Class 1-A seemed to have rallied behind him. The referee realized the tide had turned; Ash's reputation wasn't damaged—it was soaring. As he struggled for a solution, an unexpected voice broke the silence.

"While that might normally be the case..." Giovanni's voice rang out as he strode onto the battlefield.

"Half-bald fuck," Pikachu growled lowly, orange sparks dancing on his cheeks as the notorious boss revealed himself.

Ash's expression remained perfectly neutral as Giovanni continued, his tone smooth and authoritative. "With the recent updates to the academy's curriculum and rules, hand-to-hand combat is now permitted. In fact, we're introducing a mandatory class for all students—Hand-to-Hand Combat Training. And this," he gestured to a blonde woman stepping forward, "is your instructor, Miss Domino."

The woman wore a sleek uniform similar to the standard Rocket attire, though the signature hat and red 'R' were absent. However, Ash's attention was drawn to her waist belt. Six balls rested there—specifically, Dark Balls. His eyes flicked to her face, and recognition dawned.

Domino... Agent 009, the Black Tulip. She's Giovanni's loyal lapdog. Ash's thoughts raced. And the Dark Ball project is already complete? That's earlier than expected. Why is she here now?

Giovanni's piercing gaze snapped him out of his musings. "First-year student Ash Ketchum, correct?" he asked, his tone almost casual but with a glint of something more in his eyes.

"Yeah, that's me," Ash replied evenly, locking eyes with Giovanni. His voice remained steady, though the tension between them was palpable. "But I think you already knew that, didn't you, Principal Giovanni?"

The air in the room grew heavier as every student watched, holding their breath. The battle had ended, but the real game was just beginning.

Giovanni's smirk widened slightly, his sharp gaze locking onto Ash. "Indeed, I do. You've been quite...remarkable so far, Ketchum," he said, his tone laced with amusement and veiled menace. "Your performance in today's battle and your 'conflict resolution' skills have certainly caught my attention."

Ash didn't flinch, keeping his expression blank, though his mind raced. What's your game, Giovanni?

The tension thickened, as if the very air was holding its breath. Pikachu, still perched on Ash's shoulder, let out a low growl, his orange sparks flaring. "Don't trust the bald bastard!"

Giovanni's smirk deepened as he produced a black Poké Ball with crimson-red accents. The central button glowed ominously, and the stylized red "R" emblazoned on the top half pulsed faintly. The sphere radiated a sinister aura, one that sent a shiver through anyone paying attention.

"I wanted to make you an offer," Giovanni said smoothly, holding up the ball. "Do you remember the Gloom we had to confiscate for a...'checkup'? Well, you can have it back, if you want."

Ash's eyes narrowed slightly as realization struck. So that's it. His plan to break me failed, and now he's trying to corrupt me instead.

The Dark Ball wasn't just a capturing device; it was a tool of manipulation. It forcibly increased a Pokémon's power, but at a terrible cost. It corrupted their minds, stripping away their personality and turning them into uncontrollable, destructive versions of themselves. Worse, it drastically shortened their lifespan, killing them within days of extended use.

And the corruption didn't stop with the Pokémon. Trainers who used Dark Balls became addicted to the power they granted, gradually losing their will until they were little more than pawns. He gives me one corrupted Pokémon, then another, and before I know it, I'm just another puppet dancing on his strings.

"No thanks," Ash said flatly, his tone cutting through the tension like a knife.

Giovanni's expression barely shifted, but his grip on the Dark Ball tightened, and faint tick marks appeared on his forehead.

"I'm tired," Ash added casually, turning his back on Giovanni. "I want to see my friend. Bye."

Without another glance, Ash walked away, the murmurs of admiration and astonishment from the gathered students barely registering.

As he left, Ash smirked to himself. Don't get so hasty, Giovanni. Your time will come. And when it does, I'll make sure it's slow and excruciating.

Ignoring the whispers and gawking stares, he kept moving. Right now, he had one priority—Serena.

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As Ash strolled toward the teleport station, he couldn't shake the feeling of being followed. His instincts confirmed it when Pikachu spoke up.

"Rockets. At least twenty of them," Pikachu informed him, his sharp senses picking up the faint sounds, scents, and movements of the pursuers.

Right. Ash initiated a telepathic link with Pikachu. Rather than heading directly to the teleport station, he adjusted his course toward Route 1, subtly leading the grunts away from populated areas.

As the duo ventured farther into the wilderness, the grunts quickened their pace, becoming careless enough for even Ash to sense their presence. Hours passed as he led them deeper, their destination the halfway point between Pallet Town and Viridian City—a picturesque waterfall surrounded by dense foliage.

When the ambush finally came, Ash was ready. The twenty Rocket grunts surrounded him, their leader standing behind a familiar trio—Jessie, James, and Meowth. The latter of whom, while unfamiliar to this Ash, was well-known to his future self.

"Giovanni wouldn't act so recklessly after what just happened," Ash said mockingly, his gaze fixed on the trio. "So I guess this is the handiwork of Black Tulip. Poor thing must be seething after I disrespected her owner. How tragic."

"Quit yappin', ya hear, ya lil' twerp!" Meowth snarled, trying to sound menacing. "Ya comin' with us, like it or not!"

The grunts began reaching for their Poké Balls, but before they could act, Ash gave a simple command:

"Pikachu, Mass Hold Species!"

In a split second, Pikachu activated his ability, Sector's Grasp. His shadow melded with Ash's, which then spread outward, merging with the shadows of the surrounding trees. The extended shadow shot toward the grunts like living tendrils, seizing each one in an unyielding grip.

Before they could even release their Pokémon, the grunts found themselves immobilized, trapped by the shadowy binds. Their cries of frustration and terror echoed through the forest as they struggled in vain.

Only Meowth remained free. His wide eyes darted to his restrained companions, panic setting in as he realized he was the last line of defense.

Ash smirked, exuding an almost predatory aura as he began walking toward Meowth. His steps were slow, deliberate, and ominous, with faint traces of his Ki leaking into the air.

"H-Hey! Hey! Hey!" Meowth stammered, his voice cracking as he instinctively backed away. "I-I ain't no run-of-the-mill Meowth, ya know!" He attempted to extend his claws in a desperate show of defiance, but his trembling limbs betrayed his fear.

Without realizing it, Meowth stumbled over a rock and fell backward, landing on his rear. His breaths came in short gasps as he was overwhelmed by the oppressive weight of Ash's aura. Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes, the reality of his situation sinking in.

Ash stopped mere inches from the terrified Pokémon, crouching down slightly to meet Meowth's gaze. His voice dropped to a low whisper, his words dripping with mock satisfaction.

"I always wanted to do this."

In one smooth motion, Ash tossed a Luxury Ball. Meowth didn't even have time to react. The ball struck him, absorbing his form in a flash of red light before landing on the ground with a soft click.

The ball didn't even shake.

Ash straightened up, brushing imaginary dust off his hands as he smirked at the restrained grunts. "Now, I could deal with all of you!"

Ash, Pikachu, and the Team Rocket grunts suddenly found themselves surrounded by a colorless dome. In an instant, they vanished from the Pokémon world and reappeared within Ash's personal dimension. The shift was seamless, leaving no trace of their presence in the real world.

As soon as they landed, Pikachu's Sector's Grasp dissolved, and Ash stepped forward, his power radiating. With a wave of his hand, slimy green vines erupted from the ground, wrapping themselves tightly around the Rocket grunts, pinning them in place. They squirmed, panic in their eyes, as they realized they were at the mercy of someone far beyond their understanding.

James was the first to break. "Give us our partner back! We swear—we'll stop this life of crime and live honest lives as farmers! Please!"

Jessie, quick to follow, nodded fervently. "Yeah! We're totally incompetent anyway. We can't do anything properly! Just let us go, and we'll disappear. You'll never even hear our names again!"

The other Rocket grunts, sensing the tone, chimed in, pleading for their freedom. Some sobbed, others promised a total 180 in their lives, but all were united in their desperation.

Ash narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing the group. He couldn't speak for all of them, but Jessie and James... they were telling the truth. He knew their story well. Despite their blunders and flashy dramatics, they hadn't truly committed heinous crimes—aside from their repeated attempts to steal Pikachu, which they failed at spectacularly every time. Their potential was undeniable, their skill impressive, but their criminal careers were laughably ineffective.

Still, Ash's voice rang out, cold and authoritative. "Thieves, crooks, thugs... some of you are even murderers. You're everything that's wrong with humanity!"

His words struck like thunder, and as he spoke, his human disguise melted away. Long silver hair, streaked with patches of red and black, cascaded down his back. A magnificent pure white wing unfurled from his right side, while a pitch-black wing extended from his left. His sparking blue eyes glowed with an ethereal intensity, exuding a power that made the Rocket grunts shrink further into their vine restraints.

James gulped audibly. "W-we didn't know we were dealing with an angel... or a demon! Or, uh, whatever you are!"

Jessie elbowed him. "Quiet, James! Don't make it worse!" Then she turned to Ash with wide, pleading eyes. "Your holiness—or unholiness—whatever you prefer! We're sorry! We promise we'll change! Honest!"

Pikachu glanced up at Ash, then muttered under his breath, "Man, you sure know how to put on a show. They're this close to wetting themselves."

Ash didn't respond, his gaze fixed on the trembling grunts. Finally, he sighed, his voice softening just slightly. "If you're serious about changing, then start by working for me, Vix!"

The vines loosened slightly as the grunts nodded furiously, swearing up and down that they would reform. Jessie and James even clasped their hands together in a dramatic display of sincerity.

Ash folded his wings, his aura dimming just enough for the grunts to breathe a little easier.

A startled Nix appeared behind Ash in his hand he was holding a bloody scalpel.

"Educate them about what I can and will do, everything about being my pet, and if they try anything just shout for my pokemon they will help you." Ash said and flew away.

Pikachu tilted his head. "So... are we keeping Meowth, or are you letting him out too?"

Ash smirked, his sparking blue eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I'm keeping him. Someone has to make sure he doesn't start a new scheme."

"Good luck with that," Pikachu muttered, shaking his head. "That cat's more trouble than he's worth."

Ash chuckled, brushing his silver hair back.

They landed gracefully at the top of Dragon Pillar, the crisp air carrying a sense of grandeur. Almost immediately, Velarion, Ash's Zekrom, soared out from the clouds and hovered beside him, his immense form casting a long shadow across the glinting obsidian.

Ash gave him a warm smile. "Hey, Velarion. How've you been? And how's Reshiram? Has Serena given her a name yet?"

Velarion's crimson eyes gleamed as he spoke, his voice a deep rumble that held both pride and slight exasperation. "I've been well, Master, though I do miss our adventures. Things were far more interesting when we traveled together. As for Reshiram..." He paused, visibly restraining himself. "She's as pissy as ever. You wouldn't believe it—she sneezed at me."

Ash raised a brow. "Sneezed?"

"Yes!" Velarion huffed indignantly. "And you know what that means for us legendaries. We only sneeze when we're gravely ill or—heaven forbid—dying. But no, she was perfectly fine. It was clearly her way of picking a fight." His tone grew even more indignant. "But I remembered your words, Master. 'Do not engage in pointless squabbles.' So I didn't fight her! I was the better dragon."

Ash grinned, unable to hide his amusement. "Good job, Velarion. I'm proud of you."

Velarion puffed up his chest, visibly basking in the praise. "Of course, Master. It took all my willpower not to let loose a Fusion Bolt, but I showed remarkable restraint."

Pikachu, still perched on Ash's shoulder, snorted. "Restraint? I'd call it fear. You know she'd roast your scales the moment you charged up."

Velarion shot Pikachu an annoyed look. "You wouldn't understand, rodent. The politics of legendary dragons are far beyond your comprehension."

Ash waved a hand, cutting off the brewing argument. "Alright, that's enough. Velarion, just keep the peace. I'll talk to Reshiram about this... sneezing issue."

Velarion's tail crackled faintly with electricity, his pride slightly dented. "Very well, Master. But make it clear to her—one more sneeze, and I won't be held responsible for my actions."

Ash chuckled, shaking his head. "Sure thing, Velarion. I'll be sure to mediate this great sneeze conflict of the legendaries."

As they prepared to descend the pillar, Ash couldn't help but think how even the mightiest dragons had their petty squabbles—and how it was up to him to keep the peace.

Ash hovered calmly above the ocean beside Dragon Pillar, the salt-laden breeze carrying the scent of the sea. His eyes scanned the vast expanse of water beneath him, already brimming with ideas.

"Think we should do more terraforming here?" he asked, the beginnings of a smirk tugging at his lips.

Pikachu, perched lazily on Ash's shoulder, tilted his head. "What would you make? We already have one island."

"One island's not enough. Let's go all out," Ash said, his tone filled with excitement. "We'll make habitats for all Pokémon types, and a second island as our main base. Oh, and an island just for my pets!"

Pikachu snorted, "Your 'pets,' huh? Sounds like you're spoiling them more than me." His tone held mock indignation, though his tail twitched with interest.

Before Ash could respond, a voice cut in smoothly, startling him.

"That's ambitious... but you'll need funds for supplies, won't you?"

Ash spun around mid-air, his startled expression softening into a genuine smile when he saw Serena, glowing faintly in her spirit form.

"Serena! Since when were you here?"

"Since you were chatting with Velarion," Serena said with a cheeky grin. "I didn't want to interrupt, so I just waited for my chance to scare you a little. Do you know how hard it is to hide from both of you?"

"I knew you were there," Pikachu said smugly, his voice laced with pride.

"Of course, you did, buddy. No one can hide from you," Ash said with a chuckle, ruffling Pikachu's ears.

Pikachu puffed up his chest. "That's because I'm the best!"

Serena rolled her eyes but smiled. "Anyway, should we get started?"

"You mean should I start while you two supervise?" Ash shot back, raising an eyebrow.

"Exactly!" Serena said with a laugh, and Pikachu chimed in with a resounding, "You got it!"

With that, Ash descended to the ocean's surface, rolling up his metaphorical sleeves and getting to work.

Time skip: 48 hours later.

Ash was drenched in sweat but grinning like a kid who'd just caught his first Pokémon. The air around him was alive with the sound of waves crashing against the shores of 19 brand-new islands, all dotting the ocean of his personal planet, Asholm.

Pikachu yawned, perched atop a nearby rock. "You're insane, you know that, right? Even Magikarp don't flop this hard when they're determined."

Ash chuckled, brushing a strand of damp hair out of his face. "Lazy isn't my thing, buddy. You should know that by now."

Pikachu nodded sagely. "True. Still, 19 islands in 48 hours? You might as well rename yourself 'Terraformer Ketchum.'"

Ash smirked at the nickname but waved it off. "Let's take a look at what we've got so far."

Island #1: Bug-Type Island

The first island was small yet teeming with life. A humid jungle blanketed the landmass, its dense foliage alive with the constant hum of buzzing wings. The atmosphere was perfect for bug-types to thrive—warm, damp, and brimming with plant life.

Island #2: Flying-Type Island

The second island was a haven for flying Pokémon. Towering trees stretched toward the sky, offering ample room for nests, while the hills provided ideal spots for burrows and roosts. Wind currents swirled across the island, giving flying Pokémon the perfect playground to train their agility and grace.

Island #3: Water-Type Island

The third island was a sprawling expanse of lagoons, rivers, and sparkling waterfalls. Deep pools nestled between rocky outcroppings allowed water-types to dive and swim freely. Coral reefs encircled parts of the island, creating a vibrant underwater haven for marine Pokémon, while misty shores welcomed amphibious creatures to rest and play.

Island #4: Fire-Type Island

The fourth island was a volcanic paradise. Towering peaks spewed streams of harmless lava that snaked through the island, heating hot springs and magma pools. The rocky terrain was dotted with ash-covered forests, offering a challenging environment for fire-types to sharpen their skills. The air crackled with energy, making it the perfect habitat for fire Pokémon.

Island #5: Grass-Type Island

A lush, green paradise filled with sprawling meadows, giant trees, and fragrant flowers, this island was a haven for grass-types. Streams of sunlight broke through the thick canopy, creating patches of warmth perfect for photosynthesis. Hidden groves and ancient vines intertwined to create a peaceful, serene sanctuary.

Island #6: Electric-Type Island

This island hummed with energy, its cliffs and plateaus alive with constant storms. Thunderclouds lingered above, providing endless lightning strikes to power the Pokémon below. Sparkling rock formations absorbed and radiated electricity, creating a dynamic environment for electric-types to unleash their full potential.

Island #7: Ice-Type Island

A frozen wonderland of glacial cliffs, snow-covered plains, and icy caves, this island provided a home for ice-types to thrive. Aurora lights danced across the sky, and the sub-zero temperatures preserved the pristine beauty of the landscape. Icebergs floated in the surrounding sea, creating a bridge-like path for adventurous Pokémon.

Island #8: Ground-Type Island

This island was a vast desert with towering sand dunes, rocky canyons, and underground caves. Oasis pools dotted the arid land, offering moments of respite. The earth was soft in some areas for burrowers, while others featured tough, hardened terrain for ground-types to practice their resilience and strength.

Island #9: Rock-Type Island

A craggy, mountainous island littered with boulders, sheer cliffs, and winding caves. This rugged environment was perfect for rock-types to live and train. The island had hidden mineral deposits, drawing Pokémon that thrived on or relied upon geological materials.

Island #10: Steel-Type Island

This industrial-themed island was a mix of natural rock formations and crafted structures of steel and iron. Abandoned factories, towering metal spires, and magnetic fields allowed steel-types to hone their abilities. A network of underground forges added a glowing, molten aesthetic to the island.

Island #11: Ghost-Type Island

Enveloped in perpetual twilight, this eerie island was filled with abandoned ruins, cobwebbed forests, and misty graveyards. The air was thick with a supernatural chill, and shadowy figures flitted between the trees. Ghost-types could thrive here, using the island's haunting atmosphere as both home and training ground.

Island #12: Psychic-Type Island

This serene, floating island hovered over the ocean, suspended by psychic energy. Crystalline formations and mystical runes decorated the land, amplifying psychic abilities. Meditation spots surrounded by calm pools and reflective surfaces allowed psychic-types to focus and grow their mental power.

Island #13: Fairy-Type Island

A whimsical land of sparkling streams, glowing mushrooms, and enchanted forests, this island was a paradise for fairy-types. Vibrant flowers and magical auras filled the air, creating a serene yet playful environment. Moonlit clearings and crystalline springs added an extra layer of beauty.

Island #14: Fighting-Type Island

This island was an expansive training ground with towering plateaus, dense forests, and ancient dojo ruins. Fighting-types could spar on smooth, rocky terrains or practice agility in obstacle-filled areas. The island had an energetic vibe, encouraging constant growth and discipline.

Island #15: Poison-Type Island

This swampy island was filled with toxic marshlands, bubbling geysers, and venomous plants. The air had a faint, sickly-sweet smell, perfect for poison-types to thrive. Hidden caves and thick vegetation offered plenty of places for them to hide and strike.

Island #16: Normal-Type Island

A balanced and tranquil island featuring rolling hills, sprawling forests, and open meadows. This island catered to normal-types with its neutral environment, offering a mix of safe spaces and challenging terrains. The simplicity of the island made it adaptable to Pokémon of all kinds.

Island #17: Dark-Type Island

This shadowy island was perpetually shrouded in darkness. Dense forests and jagged cliffs gave dark-types a place to blend in and strategize. Glowing pools of dark energy scattered across the land enhanced their abilities, while the ominous atmosphere made it a perfect home.

Island #18: Base island

This was a plan island with a small beach, this was island on which Ash has to spend most of his money, on the island was a simple wooden house and connected to the house was a hot spring. Ash bought the magical blue prints from the system and created the resources from his abilities, this island is still incomplete.

Island #19: Pet base

This was for the rest of the humans on the island, Ash just bought a magical blue print for a 5 story building and created the resources by ability Matter and anti matter, this was quite low effort work, because this was the last one.

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As Ash admired the freshly completed Base Island, he wiped imaginary sweat from his brow. "Well, that's one down. A nice, simple house with a hot spring. Perfect for relaxing after a day of legendary battles or interdimensional drama."

Serena raised an eyebrow, her small form leaning against a tree that wasn't really there. "Simple? You used magical blueprints and manipulated reality to make this happen. That's your idea of simple?"

"Hey," Ash said, grinning, "if you've got the power, why not use it? Besides, you're the one who insisted on the hot spring."

Serena rolled her eyes. "Fair point. I deserve it."

Pikachu jumped onto Ash's shoulder, chewing on a berry he'd pilfered from the Bug-Type Island. "Speaking butts, shouldn't we check out the Pet Base? You know, make sure it's… liveable."

The trio made their way to the last island: Pet Base Island. Ash gestured dramatically at the sleek, five-story building. "Behold! A fortress of comfort and style for the humans who'll join us here. Fully customizable interiors, magical self-cleaning floors, and enough space for everyone to have their own corner."

Serena gave him a skeptical look. "You're telling me this is low-effort?"

Ash shrugged nonchalantly. "What can I say? Matter and anti-matter manipulation makes things… efficient."

Pikachu squinted at the building. "Do they have snack dispensers on every floor?"

Ash laughed, patting Pikachu's head. "Buddy, we'll make sure the whole building has a snack buffet if it'll make you happy."

Serena floated around the island, taking it all in. "So, we've got islands for every Pokémon type, a base for us, and a home for anyone who decides to stay here. Think you're done now?"

Ash looked out over the ocean, the warm sun setting behind the distant islands. "Not even close. But it's a good start."

Pikachu leaned back lazily on Ash's shoulder. "Just make sure the snacks are restocked before your next grand plan, okay?"

Ash grinned, his silver hair catching the sunlight. "Snacks first, world domination later."

Serena floated gently next to Ash, her tiny form hovering just above his shoulder. She grinned, her eyes gleaming mischievously. "When are we overthrowing the Pokémon League? I'm sure it'd be a blast!" she giggled, her voice light and playful.

Ash chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I was just joking about that. Really, I have no plans like that."

Serena's grin widened, but she pouted just a little, her wings fluttering in mock disappointment. "Aww, why not? It would've been so much fun! And it's not like we don't have the power for it... A little grinding, a little manipulation, and bam! The world's ours!" She said it so sweetly, her voice filled with excitement, but the mischief was still there.

Ash let out a soft sigh, a fond smile tugging at his lips. "Transforming into a spirit really changed you, huh?"

Serena giggled softly, her tone warm and teasing. "Yep, but I think it's for the best. Everything's more fun like this. I love the chaos, and the blood..." she trailed off, her voice softening just a bit, looking at him with a playful sparkle in her eyes. "...Can I have some?"

Ash couldn't help but laugh at her antics, his gaze softening. "Fine, but just a little. Don't go overboard."

Serena floated up to his neck, gently grazing her lips against his skin as she bit lightly into him, her delicate form pressing close to him for just a moment longer than necessary. She pulled away, smiling with satisfaction. "Mmm, that's much better," she said, her voice soft and pleased. "You're not so bad, Ash. I might get used to this."

Ash smiled, his expression warm. "You've definitely changed, but... I kind of like this side of you. It's different, but still you."

Serena blinked, her eyes softening as she met his gaze. For a brief moment, there was a sweetness to her tone as she replied, "You're not so bad either, Ash."

Pikachu, who had been watching the interaction with an amused expression, whispered into Ash's ear, "She really is more like a vampire than a spirit."

Ash grinned, leaning down to nuzzle Pikachu's head affectionately. "Yeah, well, at least she's our vampire."

Serena let out a soft, contented sigh, floating closer to Ash, the faintest trace of warmth in her eyes. "Yeah... our vampire."

There was a brief silence, a soft, sweet connection between the two of them, before Ash broke the moment with a light chuckle. "You know, I think we've earned a break after all that building..."

Serena's wings fluttered as she looked up at him, her voice gentle. "I think so too. Maybe we can relax for a little while. It's been a lot of work."

Ash smiled, turning to look at the islands they had created together. "Yeah... a little break sounds good. Just us and our paradise."

Serena nodded in agreement, hovering closer to him again. "I like that idea. Just us."

Pikachu rolled his eyes playfully, but there was a small smile on his face. "You two are getting all sentimental on me. I guess that's what happens when you spend too much time together."

Ash gave Pikachu a playful nudge. "Maybe, but... it feels good, doesn't it?"

Serena's soft giggle was the perfect response as she drifted beside Ash, the three of them in their own little world, content for the moment.

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Ash, still dripping from the hot spring, opened the door with a relaxed smile. As expected, Elysia, Eilie, Cyan, and Charmeleon stood there, their eyes lighting up upon seeing him.

"Dad/Father/Master/Ash!" they all exclaimed, their unique personalities shining through in their tone. Cyan, ever the affectionate one, immediately wrapped her feelers around his hand, her soft fur brushing against his skin.

"Hey there, guys!" Ash greeted warmly. "Wanna join me in the hot spring? It's amazing."

Elysia and Eilie exchanged excited looks before chiming in unison, "We'd love to!" Cyan simply nodded, her shimmering fur catching the light as she leaned closer, clearly content just being by his side.

Charmeleon, however, crossed his arms and scowled slightly. "No time for that. Train me! I wanna evolve as soon as possible!"

Ash chuckled, ruffling Charmeleon's head playfully. "Oh, take a chill pill for once, Charmeleon. I've got something big planned for you—something you'll love. But for now, let's just relax. Trust me, a little downtime can do wonders."

Charmeleon huffed but didn't argue further. "Fine, but it better be worth it."

Ash leaned against the doorway, his gaze softening. "You know what? Let's make it a family activity. Go ahead and gather everyone—we'll turn this into a proper team hangout."

At the sound of the commotion, Pikachu and Serena wandered over, curious. Pikachu was still soaked, water dripping from his fur, while Serena had already transitioned into her Astral Puppet form, her expression calm but intrigued.

"Seriously, what's taking you so long, Ash?" Pikachu asked, shaking some water from his fur.

Serena glanced at the group with a faint smile. "Looks like someone's popular."

Charmeleon, eager to get moving, turned to leave. "Fine. But this better be fun, or I'm roasting your butt, Ash." He stomped off, muttering to himself as he began the challenge of finding the rest of the team scattered across their type habitats. First on his list: Pidgeotto or Butterfree, whoever he found first.

Ash watched him go with an amused shake of his head. "That one's going to give me gray hair before long."

Serena chuckled softly. "Well, you did sign up for this, 'Dad.'"

Ash rolled his eyes playfully. "Yeah, yeah. Anyway, I've got an idea. Check this out!" He held up a massive blueprint, the magical design shimmering faintly in the sunlight. "We're building something new!"

Time Skip: An Hour Later

Ash stood proudly, gazing at his latest creation: the All-Purpose Relaxing Zone, the newest addition to the planet's landscape.

Island #20: All-Purpose Relaxing Zone

This island was designed with everyone in mind—humans and Pokémon alike. At its center was a sprawling natural hot spring, its crystal-clear waters inviting and soothing. Surrounding it were areas tailored to specific needs:

A large pool of hot sand for Ground and Rock types, perfect for basking.

A small lava pool beside an icy, frost-covered area, specially crafted for Fire and Ice types to enjoy without clashing.

Cozy nooks and shaded spots for Grass and Fairy types.

Mana snack deposits dotted the island, offering delicious, energy-replenishing treats for everyone.

The pièce de résistance was a magical vending machine that created custom snacks when mana was inputted. It was a quirky addition, but Ash knew it'd be a hit.

Pikachu whistled in approval. "Okay, I'll admit it. This is pretty awesome."

Serena floated closer, her gaze softening as she looked at Ash. "You really outdid yourself this time. It's... perfect."

Ash turned to her, a warm smile spreading across his face. "It's not perfect yet. It'll only be perfect when everyone's here, enjoying it together."

Serena tilted her head, her eyes sparkling. "You're such a sap sometimes."

"And you love it," Ash replied smoothly, earning a quiet laugh from her.

As the first of his team began arriving, their excited voices filling the air, Ash took a deep breath, the sense of accomplishment warming him almost as much as the hot spring itself. This wasn't just a project—it was home.

Thank you all, who Followed, Favorited, Reviewed, and who took the time to read my fic I really appreciate it.