The morning sun streamed through the window of Venus's recovery room, casting soft golden light across the tidy space. Ashley was perched on the edge of the bed, carefully tying the bright blue scarf back around Venus's neck. "There," she said softly, scratching under her Eevee's chin. "You're officially back to being the best-dressed member of the team."

Venus chirped happily, her fur fluffed and shining after Nurse Joy's care. She looked stronger, her energy slowly returning, though her movements were still careful. Across the room, Damian stood with his arms crossed, his expression somewhere between guilt and hesitation. Beside him, Hitmonchan stood tall and poised, while Haunter floated lazily, grinning like he had no care in the world.

"You sure you don't need me to stick around?" Damian asked, his tone uncharacteristically serious. He scratched the back of his neck, glancing at Venus. "I mean… after everything that happened yesterday—"

Ashley spun around, hands on her hips. "Damian, if you don't leave now, I'm going to start thinking you're scared of losing that contest."

"Scared?" Damian shot back, his grin returning. "Please. I've got this in the bag." But his confidence wavered as he glanced at Venus again. "I just don't want to bail on you guys when—"

"Bail?!" Ashley interrupted, pointing dramatically at the door. "You are not bailing. You are going to walk out of here, get on that stage, and show every other coordinator what a Hitmonchan can do. Right, Venus?"

Venus gave an enthusiastic squeak, puffing out her chest. Ashley chuckled. "See? Even Venus wants you to go kick some butt. And don't worry, we're gonna cheer you on from here."

Damian laughed, though it was tinged with a bit of nervousness. "Alright, alright. You win." He crouched slightly, meeting Venus's gaze. "Thanks for letting me off the hook, partner. Get some rest, okay?"

Venus nudged his hand gently with her nose, her expression soft and understanding.

Hitmonchan gave a low bow, his movements precise and disciplined. He straightened with a faint smile, as if silently saying, We'll make you proud.

And then there was Haunter. True to form, the ghost darted forward, sticking out his tongue and floating upside down as he made exaggerated faces. Venus tilted her head, unimpressed, but when Haunter's antics became even more ridiculous—complete with spinning in the air—Venus let out a small, chirping laugh.

Ashley blinked. "Wait. Did she… just laugh at Haunter?"

Damian smirked. "Looks like somebody's warming up to the MVP."

Haunter crossed his arms with a smug grin, puffing out his chest as if to say, Of course she is.

"Alright, alright," Ashley said, shaking her head with a smile. "You saved her life; you get a free pass for being insufferable." She leaned down, scratching behind Venus's ears. "And look at you, letting him tease you. I'm proud of you, too."

Damian straightened up, his confidence back in full force. "Okay, this is my cue. You guys better actually watch my contest, though. I expect loud cheering—even if it's through the PokéNav."

Ashley gave him a mock salute. "You got it, star performer."

Hitmonchan gave Venus one last respectful nod, and Haunter floated lazily toward the door, giving a final wave. Venus lifted her paw slightly in farewell, her tail swishing as the trio left the room.

As the door clicked shut, Ashley let out a breath, flopping back into the chair beside Venus. "Well, there he goes. Think he'll win?"

Venus tilted her head, then gave a small, determined chirp.

Ashley grinned. "Yeah, me too. But for now…" She gently pulled a blanket over Venus, her voice softening. "Let's focus on you, alright? You're the real MVP here, partner."

Venus purred softly, curling into the warmth of the blanket. Ashley leaned back in the chair, watching her Pokémon rest.

Ashley felt a pang of guilt as she left Venus alone in the recovery room, her Eevee's small frame tucked into the bed. She wanted nothing more than to sit by Venus's side, but she also knew the rules—Pokémon couldn't be released in the recovery room, and Chansey was there to keep a close eye on her. With a heavy sigh, Ashley made her way to the front desk, her shoulders slumping as she picked up a pen to fill out the paperwork for Venus's release.

Her thoughts swirled as she wrote, guilt gnawing at her. I should've been stronger, faster... smarter. Venus wouldn't be here if I'd done better. She shook her head, trying to push the thoughts away, but they lingered, a dull ache in the back of her mind.

Just as she finished signing the last form, Nurse Joy approached, her soft voice pulling Ashley from her reverie. "Ashley, you've got a call on one of the machines in the waiting room."

Ashley blinked in confusion. "A call? But… why not my PokéNav?" She set the clipboard down and followed Nurse Joy to the waiting room, curiosity and unease twisting in her stomach. The glowing monitor of the video phone blinked with an incoming call. She hesitated for a moment, then pressed the button to answer.

Her parents' faces appeared on the screen, her mom's gentle smile and her dad's steady expression immediately soothing some of the tension in her chest. "Mom? Dad?" she said, surprised. "What's going on?"

Her dad leaned closer to the screen, his voice firm but laced with concern. "We heard about what happened at Sabrina's gym. My contacts in Saffron told me you had a rough time."

Ashley's stomach dropped. Of course, her dad's connections in law enforcement would've gotten word. "It was… something, alright," she admitted, her voice shaky. "But Venus—she's hurt. She'll be okay, though," she added quickly, seeing her mom's worried expression. "Nurse Joy says she just needs rest."

Delia placed a hand over her heart, visibly relieved. "Oh, thank goodness. And you, Ashley? Are you okay?"

Ashley hesitated, her fingers curling against the edge of the phone. "I'm… I'll be fine. Shaken, but fine." She offered a faint smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "It just feels weird, you know? I didn't win the badge. It doesn't feel right to keep it."

Her mom's expression softened. "Ashley, you earned that badge in a different way. Venus fought to help Sabrina, to save her and that gym. Not accepting the Marsh Badge would be a disservice to everything Venus did."

Her dad nodded in agreement. "Your team isn't just about battling, Ash. It's about stepping up when things go wrong, and that's exactly what you did. Sabrina gave you that badge because she recognized your strength, even if it wasn't in a traditional battle."

Ashley bit her lip, her heart aching as her parents' words sank in. "I guess you're right," she murmured, glancing down. "It's just… hard to think of it that way."

Delia smiled gently. "You'll see it differently once Venus is back on her feet. She's a fighter, just like you."

Ashley exhaled deeply, a small but genuine smile breaking through. "Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad."

Her dad cleared his throat, his tone turning lighter. "By the way, we called through here instead of your PokéNav because we've got something special for you."

Ashley tilted her head, curiosity sparking. "Special? What do you mean?"

Delia's face lit up. "We can transfer Poké Balls through this machine. And there's someone here who's been dying to meet you."

Ashley blinked at the screen, her parents' faces looking back at her with a mix of concern and excitement. Her brain stalled for a second, processing her mom's words. "Wait, wait, what? My second Eevee? You mean now?"

Delia chuckled softly. "Well, yes, now. We thought you could use a little good news after what happened, sweetie. And with the transfer machine, we can send him straight to you."

Her dad, standing next to Delia, grinned. "He's been bouncing around ever since he hatched. Full of energy and ready for adventure. We figured Saffron was as good a place as any to send him to you. Big city, big debut."

Ashley rubbed the back of her neck, suddenly a little overwhelmed. "I mean, I'd love to meet him, but Venus is still recovering, and I don't want to—"

"Don't want to what? Make your Eevee happy?" her dad interrupted, raising an eyebrow. "Ashley, you're overthinking. Venus isn't going to feel replaced. You're not doing anyone any favors by holding off. Besides, this Eevee's raring to meet you. Trust me."

Ashley opened her mouth to argue, but Delia cut her off, her tone gentler. "Sweetheart, we know you're still processing everything that happened at Sabrina's gym. But this is a reminder that good things are still happening, too. And Venus would probably love to meet her new teammate."

Ashley hesitated, then sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Alright, alright. You win." She gestured toward the transfer machine. "Send him over."

Her mom's face lit up, while her dad gave a thumbs-up. "One Eevee, incoming!" he said, stepping off-screen for a moment.

The machine in front of Ashley hummed to life, the screen blinking as data transferred across regions. A Poké Ball materialized in the slot with a bright flash. Ashley stared at it for a moment, the shiny red-and-white orb glinting under the fluorescent lights.

Delia clapped her hands. "We'll let you two bond. Give Venus a kiss from us, and let us know how it goes with the new addition, okay?"

"Will do," Ashley said, her smile softening. "Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad. This was… exactly what I needed."

As the call ended, Ashley stood, cradling the Poké Ball in her arms. As Ashley walked down the quiet, sterile hallways of the Pokémon Center, she clipped the Poké Ball in her belt. No matter what her parents told her, she did not have it in herself to handle a new Pokémon right now. She felt too frazzled already, as if she was hanging by a wire.

Reaching the recovery room, she pushed the door open, her train of thought screeched to a halt as her eyes landed on someone unexpected. Standing near Venus's bed, her arms crossed in a composed yet commanding manner, was Lorelei, the Ice-type master of the Indigo League Elite Four. Her crimson hair caught the overhead light, her glasses reflecting just enough to give her an air of authority.

Ashley blinked in disbelief. "Lorelei?! What are you doing here?"

Lorelei turned her sharp gaze toward Ashley, a small smile softening her usual stoic expression. "I was wondering when you'd show up," she said, her tone as calm and cool as the Pokémon she specialized in. "I've been waiting."

"For me?" Ashley stepped inside. "I mean, it's not every day you see an Elite Four member hanging out in a Pokémon Center recovery room."

Lorelei chuckled lightly. "You'd be surprised how often I visit these places. Especially when things like this happen." She gestured vaguely to Venus, who was still resting comfortably, and then toward the city beyond the window. "You were at Sabrina's gym, weren't you?"

Ashley's stomach twisted slightly at the memory. "Yeah," she admitted, her voice quieter. "It was… something else. We barely made it out."

Lorelei nodded, her expression turning serious. "I've been sent to investigate what in the Distortion World has been going on here. The Indigo League should've been informed the moment things started spiraling out of control, but apparently, no one thought to make that call."

"Wait," Ashley said, frowning. "You mean the League didn't know about Sabrina?"

"Not until very recently," Lorelei confirmed. "And by then, it was too late to intervene properly. I came here personally to assess the situation." She glanced toward Ashley, her piercing gaze softening slightly. "It sounds like you've already done more than your share of handling it."

Ashley shrugged, though her posture stiffened slightly. "I don't know about that. We mostly just… survived."

"That's more than some could've done," Lorelei said. "Sabrina's power isn't something to take lightly—especially not when it's out of control." She uncrossed her arms and took a step closer. "I also wanted to thank you."

Ashley blinked. "Thank me? For what?"

Lorelei tilted her head slightly. "For alerting the authorities about the trafficked Pokémon. I was part of the team escorting them back to their home regions."

Ashley's eyes widened. "Wait, you were in charge of that?"

Lorelei nodded. "The Elite Four divided the responsibility between us. I personally oversaw the group heading to Alola. And while I was there…" She reached into her coat pocket, pulling out a single Poké Ball. "…I picked out something for you."

Ashley stared at the Poké Ball in shock, her mouth opening and closing as she tried to process what was happening. "You… got me a Pokémon?"

Lorelei handed the ball to Ashley with a small smile. "I did promise you an Ice-type for your aid during the Seafoam Islands debacle. You've got potential, Ashley, but it's clear you're pushing yourself hard. This Pokémon should help you not only in battles but also remind you that you're allowed to accept help when it's offered."

Ashley took the ball carefully, her fingers brushing against the cool surface. Her heart raced with curiosity and excitement, but Lorelei's words held her attention more than the mystery of what was inside. "Thank you," she said sincerely. "Really. I'll take good care of… whoever's in here."

Lorelei nodded approvingly. "I'm sure you will. But I'll let you discover them in your own time. I'll leave you to it."

"Wait," Ashley said, taking a step forward. "Are you leaving already?"

Lorelei glanced over her shoulder, her smile turning faintly amused. "I've got work to do. And you've got your hands full." She gestured toward the two new Poké Balls. "But who knows? Maybe we'll meet again, under different circumstances."

Before Ashley could say anything else, Lorelei slipped out of the room, her presence as commanding in her exit as it had been when Ashley first walked in. Ashley looked down at the Poké Ball in her hand, then at Venus, who was watching her curiously. "Well," she said, exhaling deeply. "I guess today just keeps getting more interesting."

Before Venus could even reply Nurse Joy and Chansey entered the recovery room, for one last check out. Nurse Joy's gentle hands moved over Venus one last time, her expression soft but firm as she completed the Eevee's final check-up. "She's doing well," Joy said, looking up at Ashley with a reassuring smile. "But remember to keep her out of battles for at least a week. She's recovering, but she needs rest more than anything."

Ashley nodded, her heart twisting as she looked at Venus. The Eevee blinked up at her with tired but trusting eyes, her trimmed fur evidence of the tough battle she'd endured. "Thanks, Nurse Joy," Ashley murmured, stroking Venus's head gently. "I'll make sure she rests."

With that, Ashley carefully recalled Venus into her Poké Ball, her fingers lingering on the button for a moment longer than necessary. The room suddenly felt quieter, emptier, without Venus's presence. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Ashley turned to finish packing her things. Her backpack felt heavier than usual, not because of the contents, but because of the emotional weight she carried.

Lorelei had left the Pokémon Center earlier, her cryptic words still echoing in Ashley's mind. She had said something about keeping an eye on the distortion affecting Kanto, and Ashley couldn't help but feel like her journey had intersected with something far bigger than she could understand. But she wasn't ready to face that yet. She wasn't ready to face much of anything.

Once her pack was secured, Ashley left the Pokémon Center without looking back. The bright, bustling streets of Saffron City seemed to close in around her. The noise, the lights, the constant movement—it was all too much. Her chest felt tight as she made her way through the crowds, her head down and her pace brisk. She didn't stop to admire the towering buildings or the neon signs she would normally marvel at. She didn't pause to watch the wild Pidgey fluttering overhead or the street performers showcasing their Pokémon's tricks. None of it mattered right now.

Saffron City disappeared behind her as she passed through the gates leading to Route 6. The path ahead was a mix of winding trails and open fields, dotted with the occasional tree and wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. Normally, Ashley would have taken her time here. She would have snapped pictures of the Butterfree dancing among the blooms, pointed out a curious Rattata scurrying through the grass, or released her team to stretch their legs and enjoy the open air. But not today.

Today, she kept walking, her eyes fixed on the path ahead. She didn't stop to smell the flowers, didn't slow down to appreciate the scenery. The warmth of the sun on her back and the soft chirping of wild Pokémon went unnoticed. Her mind was too full—of Venus's battle, of the haunting experience in Sabrina's gym, of Lorelei's visit and the questions it left behind.

Her boots kicked up dust as the paved roads gave way to the rougher terrain of Route 6. Normally, Ashley would have been pointing out wild Pokémon to her team or snapping pictures of the scenery to send back to her parents. But today, the vibrant greenery of the route blurred together in her peripheral vision. Her heart was still heavy from everything that had happened. The excitement of holding a new Pokémon's Poké Ball in her pocket couldn't outweigh the mental fatigue that pressed on her shoulders.

She didn't know how long she walked, only that the sun had started its descent by the time she realized she couldn't go any farther without resting. Ashley realized her legs were aching, her muscles begging her to stop, her throat was dry as the desert. Spotting a small clearing near a creek, Ashley decided it was as good a place as any to set up camp.

Dropping her bag onto the ground, Ashley groaned, rubbing the back of her neck. Normally, setting up camp was a fun little routine she'd developed with her Pokémon. Neptune would ferry supplies with his shell, Venus would help fluff the sleeping bag, and Mars would light a fire with a flick of his tail. But not tonight. Tonight, it was just her.

She started with the tent, her fingers fumbling slightly as she unrolled it and struggled to secure the stakes. "Come on," she muttered, yanking one corner taut. The tent seemed determined to resist her efforts, but after a few frustrating minutes, she managed to get it upright. It wasn't perfect—one side sagged a bit—but it would do. Next, she pulled out her sleeping bag, spreading it inside the tent before gathering some firewood from nearby. Without Mars's reliable flame, starting a fire took longer than she expected, and by the time she got a small blaze going, her patience was paper-thin.

Ashley dropped onto the ground beside the fire, pulling her knees to her chest. The warmth of the flames licked at her face, but it didn't bring the comfort it usually did. She reached into her pocket, pulling out the Poké Ball Lorelei had given her. Turning it over in her hands, she stared at its polished surface, her reflection distorted in the curved metal.

"What kind of trainer are you?" she muttered to herself, her voice bitter. "Venus nearly got destroyed, and you're sitting here sulking instead of figuring out how to get stronger."

The Poké Ball felt heavier than it should have, and she tucked it back into her pocket with a frustrated sigh. She pulled her knees closer, resting her chin on them as the fire crackled softly. The quiet around her was unnerving. She missed the chatter of her team, the way they always seemed to fill the silence with their presence. But right now, she didn't trust herself to face them.

Her stomach growled, but she didn't move to grab food from her bag. The thought of eating alone made her chest tighten. "You'll get over it," she whispered, as if trying to convince herself. "Just... one night to reset."

The stars began to peek through the darkening sky, their light flickering faintly against the creeping shadows of the trees. Ashley tilted her head back, watching them in silence. Normally, she'd point out constellations to her Pokémon or laugh when Mars pretended not to care but clearly listened. Now, the stars felt distant, like they belonged to someone else's story.

The soft murmur of the creek in the distance was the only company she had, and for a moment, Ashley let herself close her eyes, her mind drifting. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of Venus's battle, Damian's encouragement, Lorelei's cryptic words, and the weight of her journey so far. She had always known this adventure wouldn't be easy, but she hadn't expected it to feel so... lonely.

When she finally opened her eyes, the fire had burned down to embers, the warmth fading into the cool night air. She sighed, standing to add more wood to the fire. As the flames grew again, she reached for her bag, pulling out her PokéNav. She stared at the screen for a moment before opening her messages. Her thumb hovered over Damian's name.

Ashley: Made it out of Saffron. Thanks again for everything.

She hit send before she could second-guess herself, tossing the PokéNav back into her bag. Sitting down again, she leaned back against the tent, staring into the fire. Making a decision, she took out her two new Poké Balls. It was finally time to meet them.

The flickering fire cast warm, dancing shadows on the walls of Ashley's small campsite. She pulled her knees up to her chest, staring at the two Poké Balls in her hand. One was from her parents, holding the Eevee she had been waiting to meet since she started her journey. The other was Lorelei's gift, a Pokémon that she still couldn't quite believe she'd been entrusted with. Taking a deep breath, Ashley pressed the release buttons and set the balls down gently.

With twin flashes of light, the male Eevee and Alola Vulpix appeared.

Eevee stretched his small frame, blinking up at Ashley with wide, curious eyes. His coat was soft and pristine, and he immediately trotted over to sniff the ground, his bushy tail swaying.

The Alola Vulpix, by contrast, appeared with the kind of quiet elegance Ashley might expect from a Lorelei-trained Pokémon. She stepped forward delicately, her snow-white fur glinting in the firelight. Her icy blue eyes locked onto Ashley, assessing her with a look that was almost regal.

Ashley gave a low whistle, her grin spreading wide. "Wow, you two are something else, huh?" she said, her voice filled with awe. "Alright, let's see what we're working with here."

She pulled out her Pokédex, flipping it open as it scanned the two Pokémon. The screen lit up with Eevee's information first.

"Eevee," Ashley read aloud. "Male. Ability: Adaptability. Moves: Tackle, Quick Attack, Sand Attack, Dig… Oh, and an egg move? Detect. But it's locked for now."

Eevee perked up at the sound of his stats being read, his ears twitching. He bounded over to Ashley and pawed lightly at her knee, as if to ask, What's next?

Ashley laughed, scratching behind his ear. "Hold on, buddy, let's check out your teammate first."

She aimed the Pokédex at Vulpix, who was still standing a few feet away, her head held high.

"Alola Vulpix," Ashley said. "Female. Ability: Snow Cloak. Moves: Disable, Powder Snow, Confuse Ray, Mist, Aurora Veil… And a hidden ability? Snow Warning."

Her eyes widened as she processed the last detail. "Snow Warning? Seriously? Lorelei, you overachiever!" She looked up at the Vulpix, grinning. "I don't even have to say it—you're going to be amazing against any Dragon-types we face."

The Vulpix tilted her head slightly, acknowledging the praise with a small, dignified yip.

"Okay, okay," Ashley said, setting the Pokédex aside and reaching for her bag. "Before we get too ahead of ourselves, let's eat. You've gotta be hungry after a day like this."

She pulled out two bowls and filled them with Pokémon food, setting them down near the fire. Eevee immediately bounded over and started digging in, his enthusiasm making Ashley chuckle. "You don't hold back, do you, buddy?"

Vulpix approached her bowl more cautiously. She sniffed it delicately, then began eating with small, precise bites. It was a stark contrast to Eevee's energetic chomping.

As they ate, Ashley leaned back against her pack, watching them. She couldn't help but marvel at how different they were. Eevee was all energy and curiosity, while Vulpix exuded calm confidence.

"So," she said, addressing the two of them, "what are we gonna call you? You can't just be 'Eevee' and 'Vulpix' forever. That'd be way too confusing once you evolve."

Eevee perked up at the word "evolve," his tail wagging furiously. He looked at Ashley expectantly, as if he already knew exactly what he wanted.

"Oh? Do you have something in mind?" Ashley asked, pulling out her Pokédex again. She scrolled to the section on Eevee evolutions, holding it out for him to see.

Eevee's reaction was immediate. He reared up on his hind legs and jabbed his paw at the image of Jolteon.

"Jolteon, huh?" Ashley said, raising an eyebrow. "Let me guess—you take after your dad, right? Raichu's gotta be proud."

Eevee barked excitedly, his tail wagging even harder. Ashley laughed. "Alright, I get it. Jolteon it is. So, what about a name? Something fast, electric, maybe a little flashy…"

She thought for a moment before snapping her fingers. "Mercury. Fastest God, right? And it's got a cool ring to it."

Eevee barked again, his approval clear. He trotted in a circle, his excitement contagious.

Ashley turned her attention to Vulpix, who had finished her meal and was now grooming herself. "Alright, your turn, Miss Fancy Tails. You've got some big shoes to fill with that Snow Warning ability. How about… Chione? She's a snow goddess."

The Vulpix paused her grooming to look up at Ashley, her icy blue eyes thoughtful. After a moment, she gave a single, quiet yip and flicked her tails in approval.

"Chione it is," Ashley said, grinning. "Welcome to the team, you two."

As the night went on, the bond between them began to grow. Mercury darted around the campfire, chasing fireflies and occasionally tripping over his own paws. Chione stayed close to her new trainer, her calm demeanor unshaken as she watched Mercury's antics with a mix of amusement and mild exasperation.

"Don't worry, Chione," Ashley said, stretching out on her sleeping bag. "He'll settle down… eventually."

Chione tilted her head, as if to say, I'll believe it when I see it.

When the fire burned low and the stars filled the sky, Ashley pulled Mercury and Chione close, their warm and cool fur providing the perfect balance. As she drifted off to sleep, she felt a sense of peace she hadn't experienced in days. With Mercury and Chione by her side, she fell asleep.

Ashley woke up to the gentle rustling of leaves and the faint hum of nature around her camp. The early morning sunlight filtered through the trees, casting soft golden beams onto the forest floor. She stretched under her blanket, glancing to her side where Mercury and Chione were curled up together, their soft breaths rising and falling in sync.

"Good morning, you two," Ashley said quietly, not wanting to disturb the serene moment too soon.

Mercury's ears twitched first, the Eevee lifting his head with a wide yawn and a tail wag that immediately brightened Ashley's mood. Chione opened her icy blue eyes soon after, blinking sleepily before delicately stretching her paws in front of her and fluffing her pristine white fur.

Ashley smiled as she got up, dusting off her clothes and starting her morning routine. She made quick work of dousing the campfire's remaining embers and folding her tent, occasionally glancing back to find Mercury sniffing curiously at every rock and root nearby while Chione sat regally in the sun, her fur sparkling like freshly fallen snow.

"Alright, breakfast first, then we hit the road," Ashley said, pulling out their bowls and some Pokémon food. She filled one with a hearty mix for Mercury, who practically pounced on it, and prepared another for Chione, who accepted it with her usual composed nod of gratitude.

"You're quite the pair," Ashley chuckled, watching them eat. Mercury's enthusiasm sent crumbs flying while Chione ate with the precision of someone who had perfected the art of dining. "One's all energy, and the other's royalty. What did I get myself into?"

Once breakfast was done and the camp was packed, Ashley slung her bag over her shoulder and adjusted the straps. Mercury darted ahead, his tail waving like a flag as he explored the edge of the path, while Chione trotted beside Ashley, her elegant pace matching her calm demeanor.

As they began their trek down Route 6, the forest opened up slightly, revealing the dirt path winding its way toward Vermilion City. The cool morning air filled Ashley's lungs, and for the first time in a while, she felt a sense of calm. But she wasn't going to travel alone for long.

Half an hour into the walk, she paused, looking at Mercury and Chione. "Alright, you two. Let's bring out the rest of the crew. It's about time they got to stretch their legs."

She reached for the Poké Balls on her belt, tossing them into the air one by one. In bursts of light, her team appeared: Mars, the fierce Charmeleon; Vulcan, the ever-loyal Growlithe; Proserpina, the resilient Gloom; and Apollo, her playful Dratini, who immediately slithered up to her and coiled around her neck like his favorite scarf.

"Good to see you too, scarf boy," Ashley teased, scratching Apollo under his chin. The Dratini chirped happily, nuzzling her cheek.

Mars stretched his arms, his tail flame flaring brighter in the cool morning air. Vulcan barked excitedly, his ears perking up as he scanned the surroundings. Proserpina waddled over to Ashley, giving her a little hum of approval before settling at her side.

Mercury darted up to Mars, clearly eager to play, while Chione flicked her tails and observed the group with quiet curiosity.

"Alright, team," Ashley said, her voice carrying a newfound energy. "We're heading to Vermilion City, but let's take it easy. No battles, no stress. Just a good walk and some fresh air."

Mars smirked, crossing his arms as if to say he didn't mind a battle or two if the opportunity came up. Vulcan trotted ahead, his nose to the ground as he sniffed for anything interesting. Mercury bounded after him, barking in excitement. Proserpina and Chione followed more calmly, though Proserpina hummed a cheerful tune as she waddled along.

As they moved down the path, Ashley found herself smiling more and more. The quiet moments with her team, watching them interact and enjoy the journey, were exactly what she needed after the chaos of the past few weeks. Even with the ache of Venus's absence lingering in the back of her mind, she felt lighter. Her team was here, and they were moving forward together.

The morning passed in a peaceful rhythm. Ashley occasionally paused to take a sip of water or give her team snacks. Mars and Vulcan had a playful spar, their fiery personalities clashing in a way that made Ashley laugh. Mercury tried to join in, only to get playfully batted away by Mars, who then patted the smaller Eevee's head in a rare show of affection. Chione stayed close to Ashley, though she occasionally flicked snow at Mercury or Vulcan when they got too rowdy.

"Chione, you've got a mean streak," Ashley teased, watching as the Vulpix sent another perfectly aimed puff of snow into Vulcan's face. The Growlithe shook his head, his tail wagging as if accepting the challenge.

As the team began to settle into their usual antics, Ashley couldn't help but feel the ache in her chest as she looked around. Venus wasn't there. She should've been racing around with Mercury or teasing Vulcan into chasing her. Ashley sighed softly but reminded herself that Venus needed rest to recover fully. She wasn't going to risk her partner's health for the sake of companionship.

Instead, Ashley focused on capturing more moments with the camera app on her PokéNav, finding solace in the vibrant energy of her Pokémon. She crouched low, the sunlight filtering through the trees casting a golden glow on the scene, and aimed her lens at Chione. The Alolan Vulpix was mid-leap, her snow-white fur catching the light in a way that made her look almost ethereal. Her paws stretched forward gracefully as she sailed over a fallen log, her delicate movements perfectly accentuated by the fading sunlight. The resulting shot was picture-perfect, a snapshot of elegance and playfulness.

Before Ashley could stand, Mercury bounded into the frame, his curious energy adding a new layer to the scene. He nudged Chione playfully, his movements swift and full of enthusiasm, his tail wagging as if to encourage her to chase him. Chione darted after him with a delighted yip, their playful nips and light tackles creating a lively flurry of movement. Ashley laughed softly as she tried to capture the dynamic pair in motion, the photos blurring slightly in the best way to reflect their energy. She swiped through the shots and smiled. "You two are naturals," she murmured.

After a while, Ashley noticed that things had quieted behind her. Turning, she caught sight of Apollo, the Dratini wrapped snugly around her neck like his usual scarf, his soft snores faintly audible. Ashley chuckled and decided it was selfie time. Holding up her PokéNav, she angled the camera to capture her own face, glowing with contentment, alongside the peacefully napping dragon-type. Apollo's serene expression contrasted hilariously with the energetic chaos in the background, where Mars and Vulcan had joined Mercury and Chione in a new game of chase.

Ashley snapped a few selfies, leaning her head slightly against Apollo's coils and grinning wide for the camera. "Look at us," she said to the Dratini even though he was fast asleep. "Just a couple of travelers soaking up the peace before the next storm."

She added some silly faces to the mix, sticking her tongue out and winking in one shot, holding up a peace sign in another. Apollo, blissfully unaware, remained the unbothered star of every picture. Satisfied, Ashley swiped through the gallery, her smile growing wider with every photo. Each image was a little piece of calm in the whirlwind of her journey, a reminder that even in the chaos, moments like these made it all worthwhile.

"Alright, team, let's find a good spot to set up camp before it gets too dark," Ashley called out, slinging her camera back over her shoulder. The Pantheon fell in line as she led them off the main path, her sharp eyes spotting a clearing by a gently flowing stream. The golden hues of the setting sun painted the area in soft light, making it feel peaceful despite the day's travel.

Ashley made quick work of setting up her tent, the rhythmic movements calming her mind. As the firepit crackled to life, she laid out food bowls for her Pokémon, each marked with their names. She smiled as Mars and Vulcan instantly dug in, while Mercury and Chione sniffed their meals before settling in to eat.

As twilight descended, Ashley reached for Venus's Poké Ball. "Okay, girl," she murmured, releasing her Eevee into the clearing. Venus appeared in a flash of light, stretching luxuriously as if she'd just woken up from a spa day. She blinked at Ashley, her gaze soft but expectant, and then turned her attention to the Pantheon with a regal air.

Ashley didn't need to say anything. Venus immediately strutted over to where Mercury and Chione were sitting, her tail swishing elegantly. She gave Mercury a light nudge, prompting him to sit straighter, and sniffed Chione with a discerning eye before giving her an approving nod. The younger Pokémon seemed to respond to her presence immediately, their playful energy shifting into something more focused.

"Well, I guess that settles it," Ashley muttered, watching the scene unfold with a smirk. "Venus is back on duty."

Venus positioned herself in the center of the group like a regal queen holding court, her chest puffed out and her fluffy tail swishing lazily behind her. Her bright eyes, sharp and full of command, darted between Mercury and Chione as if she were assessing their potential with all the seriousness of a veteran trainer. Mercury, eager to please, sat attentively, his tail wagging slightly in anticipation. Chione, ever graceful, mirrored the posture but kept her gaze cool and calm, clearly curious about what Venus had planned.

Then Venus raised a paw, and as if presenting a sacred artifact, she revealed a TM. Ashley's jaw dropped, the camera in her hand lowering slightly. "Wait, what? Venus, where in the Distortion World did you—?" Her voice trailed off as she realized exactly what had happened. Venus had somehow snuck into her bag and pilfered the TM.

Ashley groaned, rubbing her temples. "Of course, you stole that. Why wouldn't you? You're practically a professional thief at this point." Venus ignored her entirely, her nose in the air as if to say, Your approval wasn't needed, darling.

With a flick of her paw, Venus rolled the TM toward Mercury and Chione, gesturing with a pointed glance for them to touch it. Mercury hesitated for half a second, glancing at Ashley for confirmation. When Ashley shrugged, mumbling, "Well, she's not wrong. It's a good move," he eagerly nudged the TM with his paw. Chione followed with a dainty touch of her own, her nose wrinkling as the data downloaded into her brain.

And then Venus, seasoned TM user and self-appointed training guru, stepped into action. She demonstrated Swift with her usual flair, leaping gracefully into the air and sending a precise flurry of glowing golden stars hurtling toward a nearby tree trunk. The stars sparkled as they made impact, leaving faint marks on the bark. Venus landed lightly, turned to face her pupils, and sat back down with an air of expectation. Mercury and Chione exchanged glances before attempting the move themselves.

Mercury was the first to try, his stars shooting out in a scattered, chaotic burst. They glimmered beautifully but barely reached their target. Chione tilted her head, unimpressed, before stepping forward. Her execution was more controlled, though her stars fizzled slightly before hitting the tree. Venus gave a small huff, walking between them to adjust their stances with her paw and chirping what could only be interpreted as detailed instructions.

Meanwhile, Mars and Vulcan watched from the sidelines, lounging beneath the shade of a nearby tree. Mars leaned back on his claws, his tail flame flickering lazily as he shot Vulcan a sideways glance. Vulcan tilted his head toward Venus and raised a single eyebrow, as if silently asking, How did we get roped into this? Mars snickered under his breath, crossing his arms as if to say, Don't ask me—I just work here.

Ashley, leaning against another tree nearby, couldn't stop laughing softly as she observed the scene. She raised her PokéNav and snapped a few more photos, capturing Mercury's determined face as he tried Swift again, his stars landing slightly closer to their target. Another click immortalized Chione's second attempt, her icy grace evident even in the golden flurry she produced.

But the best shot, in Ashley's opinion, was Venus herself. The Eevee stood tall in the center of it all, her eyes gleaming with pride as her "students" improved before her. The light from the setting sun haloed her fur, giving her an almost angelic glow. "Look at you," Ashley whispered with a grin. "Venus, the queen, ruling her kingdom."

Venus turned her head slightly, one ear flicking as if she'd heard Ashley. But instead of acknowledging her trainer, she went back to barking out more orders, pointing to the tree trunk as if challenging Mercury and Chione to do better. Ashley chuckled, shaking her head. "Diva," she muttered affectionately before snapping one last photo of the determined group.

"You're incredible, Venus," Ashley said under her breath. "Even when you're not battling, you're still the heart of this team."

The night deepened, stars dotting the sky as the Pantheon continued their impromptu training under Venus's guidance. Ashley sat by the fire, her PokéNav resting in her lap as she watched her Pokémon. Her heart felt lighter, the weight of the past few days slowly easing. Venus's confidence seemed to radiate through the entire group, reminding Ashley that nothing will ever keep her Pokémon down.

Thanks to the TM's Ashley had on hand—and Venus's tireless efforts as an unofficial coach—Mercury and Chione had made impressive progress during their journey toward Vermilion City. Over the course of several days, the two new recruits went from rookies to skillful battlers, learning not only the mechanics of their new moves but how to integrate them effectively in battle and coordination.

Mercury had taken a particular shine to Swift, eagerly practicing the move until his golden stars shot out in controlled, radiant arcs that zipped through the air like tiny comets. He combined it with Double Team to create illusions of himself, each one firing identical stars that dazzled the target and left opponents guessing which one was real. Ashley couldn't help but smile every time he executed it flawlessly, his tail wagging excitedly as if to say, Did you see that?

And then there was Sunny Day, which Mercury took on with particular pride. It was a nod to his admiration for his mother, the Flareon he adored. Mercury would leap gracefully, summoning a glowing orb of light that climbed into the sky and brightened the battlefield. The sunlight not only boosted his teammates' morale but also hinted at his determination to evolve into a Jolteon, a future where his speed and lightning-fast strikes would match the sun's intensity. Ashley couldn't help but feel a swell of pride watching him develop, knowing how deeply personal this move must have been for him.

Chione, on the other hand, mastered her moves with an icy elegance that reflected her personality. Her Swift had a different flair compared to Mercury's—it was sharper, faster, and almost seemed to sparkle with a frosty sheen. Her Ice Beam quickly became her signature attack. She practiced until the beam of frigid energy was strong enough to freeze a targeted boulder solid, leaving intricate frost patterns in its wake. Ashley found herself marveling at the precision Chione displayed, the Vulpix's focus unshaken even when Mercury's playful antics tried to distract her.

Chione's use of Substitute was almost theatrical. She would craft a decoy with a dramatic flourish, often paired with her Double Team to create a scene where opponents struggled to figure out which version was real. The finesse in her execution left even Venus, the queen of battle theatrics, nodding approvingly.

By the time they neared Vermilion City, the two Pokémon had become a seamless part of Ashley's growing Pantheon. Venus watched over them like a proud mentor, occasionally stepping in to refine their techniques or redirect their energy when they got carried away. Mars and Vulcan occasionally pitched in, offering challenges to test the duo's progress. Even Apollo, still coiled around Ashley's neck most of the time, would peek out to chirp encouragements during their training sessions.

Ashley found herself beaming with pride as she observed her team's progress. Each new move felt like a step toward something bigger—a stronger Pantheon, a more confident Mercury and Chione, and herself growing as a trainer. She knew her mentors—Koga with his tactical mindset, Lorelei with her emphasis on balance, and even Blaine with his practical, survival-based training—would all be impressed with how far she had come.

As she watched Mercury summon a perfect Sunny Day that cast golden rays over the forest path and Chione fire a chilling Ice Beam into the sunlight, creating a cascade of refracted rainbows, Ashley grinned to herself.

The fire crackled gently, casting a warm, flickering glow over the small clearing where Ashley had set up her camp. Her team had settled down for the night, the air filled with the soothing sound of rustling leaves and the distant calls of wild Pokémon. Chione lay curled up near the edge of the fire, her alabaster fur reflecting the flames, while Mercury had plopped himself on a soft patch of grass, his tail twitching contentedly. Vulcan and Mars were off to the side, playfully sparring under the watchful eyes of Proserpina, who occasionally barked a firm correction when their enthusiasm got a little too wild.

Ashley sat cross-legged near her tent, her grooming kit spread out neatly beside her. Venus lounged in front of her like a queen awaiting her royal spa treatment, her paws tucked neatly under her chest and her eyes half-lidded in contentment. The dim light caught on her recently trimmed fur, which had lost a bit of its usual luster from the intense battle in Saffron City.

Ashley picked up a soft-bristle brush and began to run it gently through Venus's fur, starting with her ears. "Alright, Venus," she said, her voice warm and teasing, "this is the deluxe treatment tonight. Just you and me, okay?"

Venus let out a soft chirp, closing her eyes completely as Ashley worked. Her tail flicked lazily, and her body relaxed under Ashley's careful hands. Ashley chuckled softly, shaking her head. "I swear, you're getting spoiled. You're going to expect this every night, aren't you?"

Venus cracked one eye open, her expression smug. She gave a soft yip, as if to say, Of course I will.

"Oh, don't push it," Ashley said, laughing, but she leaned closer, brushing with extra care. She moved down to Venus's neck and chest, brushing out the fine fur there before switching to a polishing cloth to give it a light sheen. "You'll be back to your old self in no time," Ashley promised, her tone turning softer. "This fur's got a lot of fight in it—just like you."

Venus let out a pleased hum, her ears twitching slightly at the compliment. Ashley continued, her strokes rhythmic and soothing. As she worked on Venus's sides, she glanced over at the rest of the team. Mercury was now dozing lightly, his paws tucked under him, while Chione had begun to entertain herself by conjuring tiny puffs of snow and scattering them across the grass. The playful display made Ashley smile, and she made a mental note to bring out her PokéNav camera again tomorrow.

"Do you see that, Venus?" Ashley asked, nodding toward Chione. "Your new protégé is shaping up to be quite the show-off. I think she's aiming to steal your diva crown."

Venus opened her eyes and tilted her head toward Chione, letting out a soft, approving yip.

Ashley grinned, moving the brush down Venus's back and toward her tail. "That's right, you're still queen bee around here. But it wouldn't hurt to share the spotlight a little, you know?"

The Eevee gave a pointed flick of her tail, her expression unimpressed. Ashley laughed again, shaking her head. "Okay, okay, one diva per team. Got it."

As the brushing session continued, Ashley's tone grew thoughtful. "You've been through so much, Venus," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "That fight with Sabrina's Abra... I know it was rough. But you were incredible, you know? You didn't give up, even when things got bad."

Venus turned her head slightly, her bright eyes meeting Ashley's. For a moment, trainer and Pokémon shared an unspoken understanding. Ashley reached out, stroking Venus's cheek gently. "You're my rock, girl. And I promise, I'm going to make sure you're always at your best."

With the final strokes of the brush, Venus's fur gleamed softly in the firelight. Ashley set the tools aside and leaned back, admiring her work. "There," she said, satisfied. "Fit for royalty again."

Venus stood, giving her fur a small shake before prancing around in a circle, showing off her refreshed coat. Ashley clapped lightly, grinning. "Look at you! You're going to make the whole team jealous."

The Eevee hopped onto Ashley's lap, curling up and resting her head on Ashley's knee. The show of affection had Ashley feeling a lump rise in her throat. She gently stroked Venus's head, her touch light and careful.

"I love you too, Venus," she murmured, her voice soft. The two sat in quiet companionship for a while, the fire crackling softly in the background.

As the stars began to dot the night sky, Ashley's heart felt lighter. Her team was healing, and so was she. Tomorrow, they would reach Vermilion City, ready to face whatever challenges came next. For now, though, she was content to stay here, surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the steady presence of her beloved Pokémon.

Ashley Ketchum's Team:

Mars - Charmeleon

Vulcan - Growlithe

Neptune - Lapras

Proserpina - Gloom

Venus - Female Eevee

Apollo - Dratini

Mercury - Male Eevee

Chione - Alola Vulpix