Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon. It belongs to Nintendo and Game Freak.

Hi all,

Here's the next chapter. Ash advances in his cultivation, but he's not the only one.

Chapter 13

James leaned against the balcony railing, a fruity cocktail balanced delicately between his fingers as he observed the bustling marketplace below. A vine slowly crept towards his drink, its movement almost imperceptible.

"Vinny, darling, do behave yourself," James chided without looking. The Victreebel's vine retracted with a disappointed rustle of leaves.

The Grass-type Pokemon lounged in an oversized planter, surrounded by carefully cultivated roses. Its bell-shaped body swayed slightly, showing signs of inebriation from the wine it had somehow procured earlier.

"I wish you'd develop a more refined palate," James continued. "These cocktails are meant to be savoured, not guzzled like common swill."

The Pokemon's ability to process alcohol was remarkable—it could purge the substance from its system at will, using it as fertiliser for its growth. But that didn't make its drunken behaviour any less problematic.

Movement in the marketplace drew his attention. Ash and his mother were examining produce at one of the stalls. The boy's steel-type Pokemon—Magnemite, hovered protectively nearby.

"My little project seems to be settling in rather nicely," James mused. "Though he hasn't encountered any real challenges yet. I do wonder..."

The boy's successful ascension from the first floor had piqued James's interest. It took more than luck to escape that wretched place—it required a particular blend of cunning and capability.

"Perhaps I was a touch harsh, placing him where I did."

The decision to rent him that particular apartment had been largely impulsive, driven more by curiosity than any real malice. The month-to-month contract was his concession to conscience—he doubted they'd face any real danger in that timeframe, and most tenants fled as soon as the terms allowed.

His informant had already reported the boy's inquiries about the murders. If Ash were smart, he would leave the apartment as soon as possible. If he managed to resolve that problem, James would ensure he was appropriately compensated. That woman's activities were affecting his revenue streams and he couldn't have that continue indefinitely.

"Sir." The voice came from behind him, proper and measured. "Your fiance has sent correspondence."

James didn't turn, keeping his gaze fixed on the marketplace below. "Bin it with the rest, Henry."

"If I may speak frankly, sir," Henry said. "Continuing to ignore Lady Jessebelle's letters might provoke an—."

"Might what?" James interrupted. "Provoke her into further attempts to drag me back to that suffocating existence? Let her try."

"Very well, sir. There was no accompanying letter from your parents this time."

That detail caught James's attention. He turned slightly, studying Henry's impassive face. "Third time in a row, isn't it? Rather unusual for them not to send a letter with Jessebelle's to support her schemes. Something must be afoot at the estate."

"Shall I make inquiries, sir?"

James shrugged. "If you wish. Though I couldn't care less what those people are plotting."

James returned his attention to the marketplace. With a flourish, he extended his palm upward. Energy flowed through his hand and a purple rose bloomed from his skin.

He twirled the flower between his fingers, watching Ash navigate the crowd below. The boy moved with purpose, never letting his guard down completely despite the relative safety of the marketplace. James approved of such caution—it showed good instincts.

"Don't disappoint me, my dear boy," he murmured. "Life on the second floor can grow terribly stale without someone to stir things up now and then."

Ash sat cross-legged in his bedroom, the cultivation manual open before him. A week of cultivation to reach the peak of the Nascent Realm had only confirmed what he'd suspected—breaking through to the Tempering Realm would require something drastic. After reading further ahead, he found a method.

He studied the refinement technique again, his fingers tracing the intricate diagrams. The method involved using his Steelium Core to filter and convert Steel-type energy into pure cultivation energy. The book described it as similar to distillation—separating pure energy from the metallic aspects that made it specifically Steel-type. But the process would put immense strain on his core, like forcing a machine to operate far beyond its design specifications.

The book's warning was explicit and dire. Attempting the refinement technique before reaching the peak of the Tempering Realm courted disaster. The process could irreparably damage a cultivator's core. Even if the core survived, the trauma could create permanent blockages in energy pathways, forever limiting one's potential.

But Ash felt the pressure of time bearing down on him. Every day spent at his current level left them vulnerable. The second floor's dangers weren't limited to wild Pokemon. The average level of cultivators was in the early stages of the Tempering Realm. Without sufficient strength, he and his mother would be at their mercy.

"Sometimes you have to roll the dice," Ash muttered, closing the book.

The alternative was spending months slowly accumulating energy, leaving them vulnerable during that time.

He closed his eyes and entered his mind palace. The Steelium Core floated at the centre. Around it swirled the Steel-type power he'd accumulated from the dead Steelix. Even with his Pokemon using it to cultivate, there was still a vast amount left.

According to the manual, he needed to create specific energy pathways through his core, like a complex filtration system. Each pathway had to be precisely shaped to handle the conversion process.

Ash manipulated his liquid metal with painstaking care, forming delicate channels through his core. The pathways spiralled inward in a precise geometric pattern, each angle and curve calculated to maximise efficiency while minimising strain. A single mistake in the configuration could cause the entire system to collapse, potentially shattering his core.

After three hours of meticulous work, the framework was complete. The pathways resembled an intricate spider's web of liquid metal, all converging on his core. Ash took a deep breath and began channelling Steel-type energy through the system.

The effect was immediate and agonising. It felt like molten metal was flowing through his veins, burning him from the inside out. His core shuddered under the strain, the metal pathways vibrating dangerously. Blood welled in his throat and he quickly turned his head to spit it out.

But the energy was incredible. Each successful conversion filled his reserves with pure power, far more potent than anything he'd experienced before. It felt like liquid lightning flowing into his core. The raw power made his skin tingle and his hair stand on end.

A sharp pain lanced through his chest, like someone had driven a heated blade between his ribs, forcing another cough of blood. Warning signs flashed through his consciousness—the core was beginning to develop hairline fractures. Tiny fissures appeared in the metal pathways, threatening to rupture. He needed to stop.

"Just... a bit... more," he ground out through clenched teeth. The potential reward outweighed the risk, but only if he survived the process.

When he felt his core was about to shatter, Ash sensed he had accumulated enough energy. He immediately ceased the conversion process, but the damage was done. His meridians burned like they'd been scraped raw, and he could feel internal injuries throughout his body. Every breath sent spikes of pain through his chest.

Now came the crucial moment. He gathered all the converted energy, compressing it into a dense sphere within his core. The pressure built steadily, like a dam about to burst. The energy fought against the compression, trying to explode outward. When it reached its peak, when he couldn't contain it for even a second longer, Ash unleashed everything at once.

The breakthrough hit him like a thunderbolt. His consciousness expanded dramatically as his energy pathways widened and multiplied. The very nature of his energy changed, becoming denser and more refined. New sensations flooded his awareness as his connection to the world deepened.

When the transformation finished, Ash opened his eyes. He had done it—he'd reached the Tempering Realm. Despite the blood staining his lips and the sharp pain in his chest, a smile spread across his face. His senses had sharpened dramatically. He could hear conversations from three floors down, and even in the dim light, colours appeared more vivid.

"Worth it," he whispered, though he knew his mother would disagree if she discovered what he'd done. The internal damage was severe—he could feel tears in his meridians and injuries to several organs.

He would need to pay a visit to the Pokemon Centre to get healed. The cost would be exorbitant but far less if he had to rely on higher-quality spirit potions to break through. They would have cost him hundreds of thousands of pokedollars. Money he didn't have.

Ash slowly stood up, wincing as he made his way over to the door.

He was now strong enough to explore the Sea of Trees, and more importantly, strong enough to protect his mother in this new environment. The second floor's dangers wouldn't seem so threatening now.

Ash exited the Pokemon Centre with Blitz floating beside him, his wallet considerably lighter. The treatment had cost him nearly twenty thousand pokedollars. Repairing the internal damage from his breakthrough had required their most skilled healing Pokemon and several hours of intensive care.

He flexed his fingers, feeling the smooth movement of tendons and muscles. Now that his injuries were healed, he could properly assess the improvements from reaching the Tempering Realm. His body felt denser, more refined, as if every cell had been compressed and strengthened. His energy reserves had at least doubled, and his senses... those had sharpened to an almost overwhelming degree.

Liquid metal emerged from his skin, flowing like quicksilver to encase his entire arm. While the quantity of Steelium hadn't increased, its quality had improved dramatically. The metal felt more responsive, more alive. He spotted a fist-sized rock on the ground and picked it up. His hand closed around it, and with barely any effort, the stone crumbled to dust.

"Not bad," Ash muttered, recalling the liquid metal. He'd need to experiment further to understand the full extent of his improvements, but the initial results were promising.

Blitz suddenly emitted a series of sharp beeps, its magnets spinning faster. Ash looked up to see James strolling down the street. His eyes narrowed as he marched towards him. James turned, a practised smile gracing his features.

"Hello, Ash. How are you this fine afternoon?"

"Spare me the pleasantries. I would like a word with you."

James raised an eyebrow. "You've already had several."

Ignoring the attempt at humour, Ash pressed on. "You failed to mention the murders at the apartment complex when giving your sales pitch."

"Ah, yes. That detail." James adjusted his cuff. "It doesn't do well for new tenants when I mention it."

"I don't like anyone endangering my mother like that," Ash said, his voice dropping dangerously low. "If anything were to happen to her, I would make your life a living hell."

"Message received." James nodded, seemingly unperturbed by the threat. "In my defence, no tenant has died in the first month of renting. You can always leave after that."

"I will be doing that."

"As an apology, I can help you," James said. "I have plenty of contacts in this city that could get you work. I wish someone had helped me when I arrived here a few years ago."

"You're not originally from the city?" Ash asked. "Are you from another floor?"

James merely smiled, the expression revealing nothing. Something about his words nagged at Ash's mind, but he couldn't pin down why.

"Why would I need your help?" Ash demanded instead. "I can't trust a word you say."

James held a hand to his heart. "That wounds me, Ash."

His playful tone shifted to something more serious. "But genuinely, if there's a certain type of work you're seeking, I can help. I noticed you've broken through to the Tempering Realm. That significantly improves your prospects."

Ash's brows furrowed. Despite his anger, he knew better than to push too hard. James's cultivation level was clearly far above his own.

"I'll send some information to your apartment," James said, already turning to leave. "Most of the jobs pay quite well."

Ash watched him walk away. He still didn't trust James, but it couldn't hurt to look at the information. Some opportunities weren't found through normal channels, and he needed to establish himself in the city by any means necessary.

As Ash climbed the spiral stairs to his apartment, he noticed a small figure peering through Birdee's window. It was a little girl with dark hair, standing on tiptoes to see inside.

"Is there something you're looking for?" Ash asked.

The girl whirled around, her eyes wide with fright. Without a word, she bolted up the spiral staircase to the higher floors.

"Am I that scary?" Ash asked Blitz.

The Magnemite bobbed his nod.

Ash found his mother sitting cross-legged in the living room, deep in meditation. He was about to retreat when her eyes fluttered open.

"Ash, when did you slip out?" Delia asked. "I looked for you earlier but couldn't find you."

"Sorry, mum. I had some business in town." He studied her posture, noting the subtle changes in her energy. "How's your cultivation going?"

Her face lit up. "I can feel it, Ash. I'm almost there."

"Great. Hang on a moment."

Ash retrieved his last spirit potion from his room. When he offered it to his mother, she immediately began to protest.

"I've broken through to the Tempering Realm," he explained. "This won't do anything for me anymore."

Delia smiled. "You're getting further ahead, love. I have to work hard."

"You don't need to push yourself." Ash shook his head. "But I have a surprise for you when you become a cultivator."

"What is it?"

"I'm not telling." He paused, remembering the encounter from earlier. "By the way, do you know a little girl who lives around here? Long dark hair, about six or seven years old?"

"I've never seen her before. Is something the matter?"

"No, I just ran into her. She seemed scared of me for some reason." Ash frowned. "Do you think I have a scary face or something?"

Delia considered this for a moment. "Hmm, not really. But you can be a little scary when you get broody."

"I don't get broody."

"Whatever you say, love." Delia stretched, her joints popping. "It's getting late, I should start dinner."

"I can make it. Focus on your cultivation."

A sharp knock at the door interrupted Ash's dinner preparations. Opening it, he found a woman standing outside. Without a word, she thrust a thick manila folder into his hands and departed.

Back in the kitchen, Ash examined the folder's contents. A handwritten note in flowing script sat atop the stack of papers: "Some opportunities for an ambitious young cultivator. Do mind the warnings about territory markers—the forest has a habit of changing overnight. - J"

The map was hand-drawn on thick parchment. Different coloured inks marked the different forest's features. Blue lines traced the meandering streams and rivers, while green shading indicated the density of the canopy.

Pokemon territories were marked with overlapping circles, each annotated with the species and estimated threat level. Red circles, drawn with thick, urgent strokes, indicated extreme danger zones. One such area, nearly a kilometre wide, was labelled "Venusaur's Domain - Level 55." Another warned of a "Scolipede Nest - Highly Aggressive." The largest red zone, spanning several kilometres, bore the simple notation: "Unknown Entity - Multiple Disappearances."

Dotted lines suggested safer paths between landmarks, though James's notes stressed these were temporary at best. The forest was dynamic, constantly shifting as Pokemon territories expanded and contracted. What was a safe passage one week could become a death trap the next.

Ash folded up the map. It was a priceless treasure that would make navigating the forest much easier. He wondered why James would give him such a valuable item. But he wouldn't throw the map away even if he was suspicious of the man's motives,

He browsed through the job listings, each organised by category.

The bounty hunting section immediately drew his attention, filled with requests for criminal cultivators hiding in the Sea of Trees. Each bounty included comprehensive details about the target's known Pokemon and combat capabilities, along with the ominous notation "dead or alive." The rewards were substantial, but so was the risk level. Still, the information proved valuable—he'd need to stay alert for these dangerous individuals while exploring the forest.

Moving on, the Pokemon capture requests sparked his interest. Wealthy collectors sought specimens with specific criteria, offering astronomical sums for successful deliveries. Some requirements were absurdly precise—shiny Pokemon, a certain gender, or having specific abilities or techniques. He could keep an eye out during his explorations.

The foraging section initially appeared straightforward until Ash noted the locations. His eyebrows rose as he read through the list. Every single plant grew in territory controlled by formidable Pokemon. The extravagant rewards suddenly made sense.

The mechanical repair listings, however, felt like stumbling upon buried treasure. Page after page detailed jobs ranging from household appliances to complex vehicular repairs, each with precise fault descriptions and generous compensation. The sheer volume surprised him—surely a city this size should have technicians to handle such work. His eyes lingered on a ten thousand pokedollar car repair job. It seemed the perfect opportunity to test James's information while staying firmly within his expertise.

The city didn't need vehicles, but they were essential for traversing the wider forest. The Sea of Trees was expansive, necessitating a network of roads. Despite the risks, these roads served as vital arteries for trade and transport between the city and the outer settlements. The alternative—travelling on foot through Pokemon territory—was considerably more dangerous.

All vehicles were heavily reinforced to protect the occupants from wild Pokemon attacks. They were frequently damaged and required repairs. Maybe it wasn't the case of not having any technicians, but not enough of them.

Ash closed the folder and returned to preparing dinner.

The imminent prospect of his mother becoming a cultivator brought mixed emotions. Pride warred with practical concerns as he considered the implications. Every cultivator required resources to advance. While the second floor offered more opportunities than the first, everything here came with a hefty price tag.

Now he faced the challenge of supporting two cultivators' growth. Still, he'd find a way. He always did. Having his mother able to protect herself would be worth any price.

Ash bolted awake to his mother's shouts, adrenaline surging through his body. He leapt from his bed, liquid metal flowing down his arm as he rushed to her bedroom. He burst through the door, ready for combat—only to find Delia sitting cross-legged on her bed, practically glowing with excitement.

The familiar energy readings hit him immediately. His mother radiated the unmistakable aura of a cultivator, her energy signature indicating the first stage of the Nascent Realm.

"Congratulations, Mum," Ash said, letting the Steelium retract beneath his skin. "But can you not scare me like that? I thought you were being attacked."

Delia jumped off the bed and wrapped him in a fierce hug. "I couldn't help myself. It took me forever to reach this point."

"Surely you're exaggerating." Ash rolled his eyes. "Compared to some cultivators, you're a genius."

"And you're not biased at all."

Ash smiled. "Have you explored your Mind Palace yet?"

Delia shook her head.

"You should explore it to see if you have any special properties," Ash suggested. "Even if you don't, it doesn't really matter."

Delia sat back down on the bed, closing her eyes. The room fell silent save for her steady breathing. A minute later, her eyes snapped open, surprise evident on her face.

"What did you find?" Ash asked.

"I have an affinity for healing techniques," Delia said softly.

Ash's jaw dropped. In all his research, he'd never encountered a cultivator with that speciality. Though admittedly, his knowledge was limited.

Healing techniques occupied a unique position among cultivators. They straddled the line between status and special techniques, allowing Pokemon to retain their use even after the Tower's creation. However, their potency had been significantly downgraded compared to the pre-Tower era, which explained the exorbitant prices at Pokemon Centres.

While cultivators could also use healing techniques despite their special categorisation, they weren't any more effective than Pokemon. Still, having healing capabilities in one's arsenal was invaluable. It was precisely why he wanted a Pokemon capable of learning healing techniques for his team.

His mother's speciality would reduce the energy cost of healing techniques while increasing their effectiveness. There was even a subset of healing cultivators who specialised in treating psychological trauma and reversing the effects of mind-altering Pokemon techniques. If she pursued that path, the potential earnings would be immense.

"Ash, what are you thinking?" Delia's voice broke through his contemplation.

He sat down beside her, his expression serious. "Your speciality is really uncommon. Even more special than my Steel-Type affinity. But you can't tell anyone about it. Someone may kidnap you and use it for their own ends. Until we can better protect ourselves, keep it to yourself."

"Alright, Ash. I will do as you say." Her eyes lit up. "Now, what was it you were going to give me?"

Ash smiled, marvelling at his mother's composure. She was taking the revelation of her rare ability with characteristic level-headedness.

He retrieved the pokeball from his room and placed it in her hands. "There's a Poliwag inside. If you want to bond with it, you can do it through the pokeball."

Ash guided her through the bonding process, watching as she established the connection with practised ease. When she released Poliwag, it immediately jumped into her lap, looking up at her with adoring eyes.

"What are you going to call it?" Ash asked.

"He's a male," Delia said, stroking Poliwag's smooth head. "I think I'll call him Blue."

"I'll give five points out of ten for a lack of originality."

Delia raised an eyebrow. "You're one to talk."

Ash sat on her bed and they started discussing her cultivation plans.

"I'll get you some low-quality spirit potions," Ash said. "For now, focus on cultivating and training with Blue. The forest is too dangerous until you reach the Tempering Realm."

Even then, he wasn't keen on her participating in battles. His mum wasn't the type to enjoy combat—her gentle nature seemed better suited to a support role. Still, ultimately the choice would be hers, and he'd have to accept whatever path she chose.

He needed to find some healing techniques for his mum. He doubted Blue could learn any naturally. Her speciality would be incredibly useful. It could save him a fortune on healing potions.

After finishing their discussion, Ash headed for the shower. He had a repair job waiting down on the forest floor, and afterwards, he planned to explore the edges of the forest near the city. It would give him a chance to properly test his new abilities.

The lift descended smoothly through the massive tree trunk, carrying Ash down to the forest floor. His tool bag hung heavy on his shoulder as he stepped out, taking in his surroundings.

The ground beneath Fortree City wasn't completely wild. Several important buildings dotted the landscape, serving functions unsuitable for the city above.

The most prominent was the city prison, its walls reinforced and guarded round the clock by powerful Pokemon. According to local gossip, no one had ever escaped. City protectors patrolled regularly, defending the lifts and other structures from wild Pokemon attacks.

The vehicle garages dominated another section, where owners stored and maintained their transport. Ash located the garage number from the job request and knocked on the door.

A man in a black suit and sunglasses answered, his expression unreadable behind the dark lenses. "What do you want?"

Ash held up the job slip. "I'm here for the repair request."

The man examined the paper. "Where did this come from?"

"Got it from James."

The man gestured for Ash to enter. "Name's Isaac. I drive for my boss and handle maintenance."

A heavily modified Hummer dominated the garage, its thick armour plating and massive wheels speaking of serious off-road capability.

"What's wrong with it?" Ash asked, studying the vehicle.

Isaac snorted. "If I knew that, would I need to make a request?"

"Right then." Ash shrugged his tool bag off his shoulder. "Better get to work."

"Are you sure you can fix it?" Isaac's tone darkened. "My boss isn't the tolerant type. The last mechanic who tried and failed got a proper beating."

Ash shrugged. If he wanted to earn decent money, he'd have to deal with these types. Besides, he was confident in his abilities. Although he hadn't worked with vehicles often, his mechanical skills were legitimate.

He methodically checked the vehicle's systems, tracing wiring and testing components until he located the fault. The repair was straightforward once he identified the problem—a combination of damaged sensors and corroded wiring that had created a cascade of electrical issues.

As he tightened the final connection, a woman's voice shattered the garage's quiet. "Isaac! Is the bloody thing fixed yet?"

Ash rolled out from under the vehicle. "Should be working now."

He found himself staring up at a woman with gravity-defying pink hair and a pissed-off expression.

She peered down at him with sharp eyes. "Who's this?" she demanded of Isaac.

"One of James' people," Isaac shrugged.

"Really?" Her lips curved into a predatory smile. "Hello, little rat. Name's Jessie. You better not be lying."

"Name's Ash," he replied as he rose to his feet. "Why don't you try starting it?"

Jessie waved a hand at Isaac, who slipped into the driver's seat. Ash held his breath until the engine roared to life, its sound smooth and powerful.

"Finally, someone with actual skill," Jessie said. "Isaac, pay the rat. Add fifty percent."

"Yes, ma'am."

Jessie caught Ash's chin between her fingers. "Consider that incentive for future work. Don't disappoint me."

She strode out, leaving Ash to collect his payment from Isaac.

"Bloody hell, she's intense," Ash muttered.

"You don't know the half of it." Isaac sighed. "Thanks, kid. If the vehicle hadn't been fixed soon..." He drew a finger across his throat.

"Mind if I store my tools here while I explore the forest?" Ash asked Isaac.

"Sure thing." Isaac took the tool bag. "Just don't get yourself killed out there."

Outside, Ash released his Pokemon. "We're going to explore a bit."

He pulled out James's map, studying the marked paths. The plan was simple—head south first, then circle the city within a mile radius. The regular patrols made this area relatively safer from criminals and wild Pokemon.

They entered the forest with Blitz scouting ahead while Bastion and Blade flanked Ash. The dim interior posed little challenge after his breakthrough; his enhanced senses picked up details even in the darkest shadows.

Distant Pokemon cries echoed through the trees as they walked. Ash's mind wandered to potential team additions. He needed a Pokemon with healing capabilities, though he wasn't certain if any lived in this forest. Pineco and Scyther also interested him—both could gain Steel-typing through evolution. Though capturing a Scyther would be tricky; they were notoriously ruthless.

They encountered several wild Pokemon, but only a few showed interest in fighting. Ash had Bastion handle them, to test the Payback technique he'd learned from the Technical Memory. He'd equipped Bastion with the Heavy Metal Ring, previously used by Blitz in the gym battle, as it suited him better.

Ash suddenly froze, his senses picking up movement behind them. He alerted his Pokemon mentally, turning to face the threat. A metal spike formed on his hand, though curiously, he sensed no hostile intent—not even a trace of cultivation energy.

"You may as well come out," he called. "I know you're there."

The bushes rustled, and a small head poked out. Ash's eyes widened as he recognised the girl from yesterday.

"What are you doing here?" he asked. "It's dangerous."

The girl emerged fully from the bush. "I'm looking for my mum. She went missing. Have you seen her?"

Ash knelt down. "What's your name?"

"Essie. Have you seen my mum?"

"I'm Ash," he replied. "When did your mother disappear?"

"Three days ago."

"You live at the apartment complex, right?"

Essie nodded.

Ash grimaced. A horrible suspicion formed—could her mother be another victim of the apartment complex killer?

"Who are you staying with?"

"By myself."

Ash sighed, today's exploration would have to wait. He held out his hand. "Here's what we'll do. I'll take you to my house—you can stay with my mum while I look for yours. How does that sound?"

The girl considered his offer before taking his hand.

As they headed back to the city, Ash asked, "Why were you at Birdee's house yesterday?"

Essie shrugged. "I thought he might know where my mum is. But I was too frightened to knock."

Ash stopped walking, his blood running cold. Something about her answer triggered alarm bells in his mind. A terrible suspicion began to form, one he desperately hoped was wrong.

So, what do you think? In the next chapter, Ash investigates the suspect and prepares for an inevitable confrontation.

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Thanks for reading.