pokemon Fighting Dreamers

Our heroes were following a small flock of Rookidees that were leading them into a forest where Ash and Bea were going to have a particular encounter. Once the Rookidee with Bea's hairband was out of sight, his brother who was fighting with Rufflet took flight to the forest as well, Rufflet then decided to go back with Bea, the four teens finally made it to the forest, which was surrounded by a tall rock fence with a big golden metal door that had the inscription of a Sword and a Shield in the middle of said door.

''Guys we can't enter here!'' Victor tried to explain standing infront of the door. ''The Weald is off limits, most people that enter get lost and never come back!''

''Then why do guys live so close to a place as dangerous as that?'' Ash asked.

''That's not the problem here!'' Victor said still blocking the door. ''Can't you just buy another hairband?''

Bea took a deep breath and tried to ignore the question. ''Victor, you have 5 seconds to get out of my way.''

''But I-''

''5...'' Bea started to count.

''Look, Bea, right?''

''4...''

''I just think we should-

''3...''

''Victor, I really suggest you to move.'' Ash said honestly worried.

''2...''

''Alright! Alright!'' The boy backed down and hid behind his sister scared as Bea stood infront of the metal door.

''We still can't enter without the key.'' Gloria said. ''We could climb the wall I guess.''

Bea knocked the door softly a few times, then she raised her fist and breathed in, after a few seconds she punched the door with all her strength shaking the door, some shrieking sounds where heard and the door fell back kicking up dust.

''What the...'' Victor trailed off now even more scared, was that going to happen to him if he didn't move?

''You do know that was a cultural treasure, right?'' Gloria asked.

''It wasn't big deal, the steel was rusting in the insides anyway, now Let's go!'' Bea said as she entered the forest along Cinderace and Rufflet.

''Right behind you!'' Ash followed her along with Pikachu.

''IKUZE!'' Gloria shouted but was stopped by her brother.

''Oh, hell no, you're staying here!''

''B-B-But!''

''I SAID NO! That's her hairband, you have no business here!''

''BUT I-''

''If that boy is what you always say he is, then he'll be fine, so we're staying in this same spot until they come back, understood?''

''But...''

''UNDERSTOOD?!''

''...Fine...'' Gloria sat on the ground, Legs and arms crossed.

''I can sense they already entered the weald.'' Zamazenta said to his sister on their altar. ''Time to split up.''

''Zamazenta...this is not gonna work.''

''What do you mean by that?''

''This girl...she just isn't worthy.''

''Zacian, is anyone really worthy? Is anyone whole?''

''Don't try to play existentialism with me! You know perfectly what I mean!''

''Even so, you have to remember Arceus was the one who choose her, he must had his reasons.''

''That doesn't justify-''

''Please, at least give her a chance.''

''...You have to tell Ash.''

''I am not going to do that, we have no right to interfere with their relationship.''

''You can't just let him stay unaware of this!''

''Why can't you have faith in the girl?''

''Lord Zamazenta, Lady Zacian!'' The Rookidee with Bea's hairband called them. ''They're getting close.''

''Thanks, Rookidee...'' Zamazenta said as he started to walk away. ''Zacian, please don't do anything you might regret.'' His sister was too much of a hot headed sometimes.

''Hmm...Rookidee come with me.'' Zacian said walking on another direction

''As you wish, my lady.''

Back to Ash and Bea they were walking through the forest as close as they could trying to not lost each other in the fog.

''This fog is getting thicker every second, I think I can touch it now.'' Ash said waving his hand infront of him, trying to improve his vision.

''Rufflet, can't you use defog?'' The bird shook his head. ''Why not? Just flap your wings!''

''KIDEE!'' A cry made Both trainers look up seeing the Rookidee with Bea's hairband.

''There he is!'' Bea shouted and the Rookidee flew away, Bea quickly followed along with Cinderace but they left Ash behind.

''Bea, wait!''

''Ash?'' Bea stopped running and called back but neither of them was able to see the other anymore.

''Bea, where are you?''

''I...I don't know.'' Bea was surrounded by fog 360 degrees. ''Are you okay?''

''Im fine, you?''

''I'm okay.'' Bea looked around again. ''I lost track of the Rookidee.''

''It's alright, just keep talking to me and we'll find each other.'' Ash said but this time he heard no response. ''Bea?'' The boy then heard a few steps behind him.

A large canine Pokemon appeared from the mist, his body is covered by a reddish fur, with a long tuft of bluish hair on top of his head, his tail was blue as well. his legs were mostly white with some blue fur on the front legs, he had numerous scars all over his body and a part of his right ear was missing. His bright yellow eyes were looking at Ash steadily, various wild Pokemon were accompanying him, Munnas, Skwovets, Grubbins, Blipbugs, Nickits and Rookidees. On top of them all was a Corviknight using Defog to clear the surroundings.

''Is good to finally meet you, Ash.'' The Pokemon said through telepathy.

''You...you are that voice I heard during my fight against Milo.''

''That's right, my name is Zamazenta, I am a Legendary Pokemon, member of the Hero duo and I have a talk to do with you.''

''Ash! Ash! ...IS ANYBODY OUT THERE?!'' Bea called but to no avail. ''...Looks like we are lost...'' She said to Cinderace who tried to stay as close to her as possible.

''Cinder!'' Cinderace pointed at a tree where the Rookidee was standing with Bea's hairband on his claws, giving them a weird Dejavu.

''HEY YOU! GIVE ME BACK MY HAIRBAND!'' Bea exclaimed, the bird looked her for a few seconds and then simply opened its claws, letting the hairband fall on Bea's hands. ''Oh...thanks...'' Bea said putting it on its usual place.

''Can anybody hear me?'' Cinderace asked.

''Yes, we can.'' Bea answered.

''So you've finally arrived...''

''Who's there?!'' Bea asked on a fighting position while Cinderace braced herself as well. 'That voice...'

The fog infront of her stated to dissolve, revealing a large canine Pokemon, her body was covered in a extensive light blue fur with pink braided hair stretching near her ears. Its legs and muzzle were white, numerous battle scars on her body and a part of her left ear was missing. Her Bright yellow eyes were looking at Bea steadily and unlike her brother, she was alone.

''Zacian...'' Bea said under her breath, but the Legendary heard her clearly.

''Oh? You've heard about me? I'm flattered.'' The wolf said with a sarcastic tone.

Bea flinched a second, surprised by the fact that she heard the Pokemon talk, she then remembered that Ash told him how many of the Legendary Pokemon he had met were able to do so, so she breathed slowly and tried to calm down. This was technically 'normal'.

''I...I've seen you in history books with Zamazenta.''

''If you've read my stories then you must know I don't show up to everybody, you and I have a talk to make, little Saito.''

''I'm very happy to meet you Ash, you're always a topic in the hall of origin.''

''I am?''

''Why, of course, you should really stop being so humble, but it's alright, rejoice, Ash you've been chosen to be the Shield Hero! And I shall give you my blessing.''

''...Chosen...great.'' Ash huffed and then sighed.

''Is there something wrong?'' Zamazenta asked worried by his reaction.

''It's just...why always me?''

''What do you mean?'' The Legendary tilted his head

''Why am I the one that always has to do the world saving stuff? I don't want to sound rude but isn't there someone else? What about Gloria and Victor? They have Protagonist faces. Why can't you call them?''

''I...Aren't you honored?''

''Honor...I'm honestly sick of that word.''

''Hmm...is that so?''

''You...you know my name?''

''Indeed, Saito Beatrice Shinka, I know quite a few things about you, my brother and I have been watching you and Ash closely.''

''You brother...Zamazenta?''

''Yes, he should be with Ash now.''

''I see...'' Of course, Ash himself said it was weird he hadn't met some deity at this point of the Galar region.

''I must talk with her alone.'' Zacian said looking at Cinderace and Rufflet.

''You think we're gonna leave her alone with you?!'' The rabbit said with an annoyed frown pointing at the Legendary standing infront of Bea.

''Cinderace...it's alright, don't worry.''

''Are you sure?'' Bea nodded and Cinderace then looked at Zacian. ''If you touch a single hair of her head-''

''Whatever happens it will depend on her.'' The Pokemon answered coldly.

''Tchh, Bea call us out if anything happens.''

''I'll be fine.'' She said recalling her Pokemon.

''Rookidee, leave us alone.'' Zacian ordered the bird who was still on the branch of a nearby tree.

''As you wish, my Lady.'' Rookidee bowed down and took flight to meet with the rest of the Pokemon.

Zacian stood there analyzing Bea with her gaze fixed on the girl, said girl on her side didn't know if she should say something, she was trying to stay respectful to the deity, eventually Zacian broke the silence. ''If you've read the stories then you must know about the Darkest day.''

''I do, but why are you awake already? Does that means that-''

''No, Eternatus is yet to return, the reason I'm awake is because some people stole my Sword and Zamazenta's Shield.''

''But if you don't have you items then-''

''There won't be anyone to stop Eternatus, he will go on a rampage, end of the world, sono chi no kioku, blah, blah, blah. I was there when that story was written, you know?'' Zacian huffed again her tone becoming frustrated.

''I don't think you should say something like that so lightly.''

''The way I talk is none of your concern, back to the point, Zamazenta and I asked the Rookidees to lure you and Ash into the weald, I was ordered to tell you by Arceus, the Mr. big boss himself, that you have been chosen to be the Sword Hero, therefore I'm supossed to give you my blessing.''

''...What? R-Really?''

''Yes, however...I'm afraid I have to disagree.''

''Disagree? ...What do you mean?''

''What I mean is that you're not worthy of that.''

''Aren't you happy to be the chosen one? To be a savior?''

''It's not that, it's just...Is that really what I am supposed to be? Someone who's always fixing Arceus' Problems? You're literally gods! Why do you even need my help?! Now you're gonna tell me there's some evil team in this region that I will have to defeat!''

''No...There's two evil teams actually...'' Zamazenta started to sweat nervously, something that Legendary Pokemon didn't know he could do to begin with.

''...'' Ash simply looked at the Pokemon with dead eyes while Pikachu rubbed his head trying to comfort him, he really wanted to focus on his Gym challenge, considering the high stakes of the Galar League.

''Uh...Back to the point, Ash, you simply are the most fit person due to your record, as the chosen one, you have already dealt with this kind of menaces a lot of times, another one shouldn't be an issue at this point, right?''

''I suppose you're right...'' Ash finally admitted and gave in. ''Fine, explain what's this thing of the Shield Hero about.''

''Of course please, sit down, I'll tell you a story.''

Ash sat next to Zamazenta with his legs crossed, Pikachu resting on his legs.

''Naofumi Iwatani was a 20 year-old university student who was whisked away to a fantasy game-like realm of monsters and magic after discovering a book about Four Heroes. Iwatani is chosen as one of these four and given the mantle of the Shield Hero, then he adopted a bunch of kids.''

''Wait, what?'' Ash interrupted confused.

''Oh, Sorry, wrong fandom...give me a second...pss, pss, pss...alright, I got it!''

''Well, go ahead.''

''3,000 years ago in Galar, a great evil crossed the land, a massive black storm that completely blocked the sunlight, this storm was created by a Pokemon made out of pure rage and toxicity that descended from a portal in the sky, the name of that Pokemon was Eternatus, it was extremely powerful and it emitted pure Dynamax energy from its body due to this he was able to achieve a state that still frightens me to this day, Unlimited Gigantamax.''

''Unlimited? You mean-''

''Yes, unlike normal Pokemon who can only use Dynamax for three attacks, Eternatus could stay in his Gigantamax form for an undefined amount of time, not only that but he was also capable of forcing other Pokemon to Dynamax or Gigantamax and then control them to use them to cause further destruction, if some Pokemon managed to break the spell, then Eternatus could also absorb the surrounding Dynamax energy and prevent the Pokemon from using that form, all seemed lost...until that day...''

''Let me explain, my sister Zacian and I were normal Pokemon, rare indeed, but nothing too glorious, we were a species that was unable of doing Dynamax for unknown reasons, that's why Eternatus' Pokemon were hunting us down, cause Eternatus couldn't control a Pokemon it couldn't Dynamax, Zacian and I were the last two of our species and then...we were gifted with the power to fight back, two sacred items forged by two humans with materials gifted to them by Arceus itself, Zacian's Behemoth Sword and my Behemoth Shield. With this new power and the help of those two humans, we banished Eternatus back to his world and then we sealed the portal, the humans who helped us were given the titles of Sword and Shield Heroes and Zacian and I were then put into a deep slumber, however, the seal that we put over Eternatus' portal wasn't permanent, Eternatus will return; and according to Arceus we were supossed to wake up only in the moment that happened.

''Wait, why are you awake already then? Is Eternatus already here? And where is you Shield?'' Ash looked at the Pokemon from tail to snout not seeing anything that reminded him of a shield.

''I'm getting to that, Zacian's Sword and my Shield were resting here in the weald along with us, however, 7 years ago, some people entered the weald and stole them, they also accidentally woke us up in the process, but we weren't able to stop them, unfortunately, the current location of the items is unknown to us, neither do we know why those people stole them, maybe they thought they were valuable, maybe they thought they could use their materials for something or in the worst case scenario they wanted to try and use their powers for their own benefit, whatever was the case we simply don't know, we have tried to search the items by all means without success, However we have a strong feeling that they are still in Galar, that's why I would like to give you what you might call a side quest, I know you'll be traveling through the Galar region, that's why I want to give you this mission, to keep your eyes open and search for the Sword and Shield, if Eternatus returns before we can retrieve them, there will be nothing to stop it.''

''I see...How much time do we have then?''

''I am not certain yet, but I can tell is not much, Zacian and I have been feeling the Dynamax energy getting stronger every day further, it could be a few months from now on.''

''I understand...so, you say I'm the Shield Hero, who's the Sword then?''

''That would be your friend, Bea.''

''Bea?!'' Ash asked worried considering the first reactions Bea had to his Legendary encounters.

''Indeed, from now on Bea will be called the Sword Hero!''

''Someone as you could never be called the Sword Hero, even if I try to understand you I simply can't, there's no excuse, I'm done of pretending you deserve a chance.''

''B-But I-''

''Still...Zamazenta has insisted so much that I guess I have no other choice.''

''So you will give me your blessing?''

''No, I won't give you my blessing just yet, I have a few questions for you first...I need to know a few things and the best way to do that is to hear it from yourself, if you are willing to answer of course, honestly, it would be easier for both of us if you just leave and forget everything about this.''

''I...Please, I would like to answer your questions if that's what you need in order to give me your blessing.'' With a calmed voice, Bea tried to show respect for the Legendary.

''Very well, why are you lying not only to Ash but also to yourself, this mask of 'Bea' that you have created, what's the point of it?''

''That...it's not like it was something I planned, back when I met Ash I didn't want to reveal my name to a stranger and although I actually met him later on, I guess I rolled with the Bea thing.''

''You rolled with it way too good in my opinion. May I know why you still haven't told him yet?''

''I'm not sure about how he might react.''

''Is that so? ...next thing, I know about your feelings for Ash, you know that's not gonna work, don't you?''

''Do you really think you two will just live happily ever after without him ever finding out? Do you really want to build up your relationship based on a lie?!'' Cinderace's voice choed in her head.

''I...''

''You know he deserves something better than you, right?''

That question really hurt Bea deep inside but she did her best to swallow it down. ''I know...'' She clenched her fists.

''Good, we agree in something at least.'' Zacian said while her air of superiority rose every second. ''Why did you escaped from your home?''

''...I wasn't happy there, neither I was going to be happy if I stayed, I simply wanted to take my own decisions and make my own path, I wanted to choose what I could be.'' As Bea ended her explanation, Zacian laughed between her teeth. ''Why are you-''

''Oh, look at me! I'm different! I'm special!'' Zacian mocked Bea while laughing out loud. ''NO! That's not how the world works! We are supposed to follow the rules!''

''W-W-Why are you antagonizing me? Aren't you doing exactly what I did?'' Bea decided to put the respect aside and take her stand. ''You said Arceus itself chose me, yet you're refusing to give me your blessing.''

''DON'T YOU DARE GROUP ME WITH YOU! YOU WORM!'' Zacian stood tall, raising her head and showing her neck, trying to assert dominance.

''What did you just call me?!'' Goddess or not, Bea was starting to get tired of this.

''I called you what you deserve... oh right, you prefer that false name anyway ...Bea...Pfft, to think you even force your Pokemon to call you that.''

''I am-''

''SILENCE!'' Zacian interrupted her again. ''YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO TALK BACK TO ME! YOU'RE NOT EVEN WORTHY OF MY TIME!''

''Then let me prove it!''

''What?''

''Let me prove you that I am worthy of your blessing! Tell me anything and I'll do it!''

''Whatever you do, it will be useless, the damage is already done!''

''I can fix it!''

''And how would you do that? Do you really think you can look at Ash in the eyes and tell him you've lying since you met?'' The Legendary walked slowly towards Bea cornering her against a tree.

''I-I-I-'' Bea tried to defend herself but the words wouldn't come out.

''NO! YOU CAN'T! And that's why I refuse to give my blessing to someone like you, you're nothing but a selfish liar! I can perfectly find someone else to fill the blank, now leave my domain!'' After all that Zacian started to walk away.

''T-T-Then I challenge you to a battle!'' Bea built up enough courage to pull out Cinderace's Premier Ball, if Ash could do it then so could she, damn it.

Zacian let out another laugh, not even bothering to look back at Bea. ''Hah! Of course, hide behind your Pokemon, If you want to simply win my blessing through them instead of doing it on your own then you're only proving me right, disappear Saito, you're not even worthy of being in my presence.''

''Wait! You're telling me you're scared of losing to a human?''

''This is the cleverest strategy you could devise? Playing on my ego? How vain do you think I am? Get lost.''

''...Get...back here...'' Bea muttered, knowing that the Pokemon would hear her.

''And who are you to order me?'' Zacian replied still not looking back.

''I SAID GET BACK HERE! YOU STUPID BITCH!'' Bea finally shouted and it felt as if the time stopped for both of them.

''You're telling me I just dragged Bea into all of this...''

''It's not your fault, Ash, She was chosen before you two met actually, I'm afraid that there's nothing we can do when fate comes knocking at our door.''

''I still wonder if she's okay with all of this.''

''Oh, don't worry, I'm sure Bea and Zacian are getting along as good as us.''

They weren't getting along...like, at all.

WHAT...DID...YOU...SAY?'' Zacian asked slowly getting closer to Bea, perhaps giving her a chance to rethink.

''WHAT YOU HEARD!'' The girl stayed firm.

''I am Legendary Pokemon, I AM A GOD!'' Zacian stomped the ground causing it to lightly shake. ''I won't be talk down by a mere girl.''

''Want to put that to test?! You said I shouldn't hide behind my Pokemon, then fine! Fight me instead!''

''Fight YOU?'' Zacian let out an almost maniacal laugh. ''Oh, I get it, you probably think that since I don't have my Sword I'm defenseless, Hah, sure, I'm still a Legendary Pokemon, I'm more than capable of mopping the floor with you!''

''Then I guess you have nothing to lose, do you?'' Bea insisted on her idea. ''But if I win you'll have to give me your blessing.''

''Listen, Saito, you have no idea who you're messing with.''

''I was just about to say the same thing, STUPID BITCH!''

''Don't try it...'' Zacian tried to hold on whatever amount of patience she had left.

''STUPID BITCH!''

''FINE THEN! I'm gonna fight you if that's what you want, but don't worry, I'm not gonna hurt you...I'M JUST GONNA TEACH YOU A LESSON!'' Zacian jumped as she was charging a Psychic Fang, she then opened her jaw revealing her teeth sparking on a pink light, Bea made a quick lean forward and once Zacian was close enough, she grabbed the Pokemon by her neck and using Zacian's own momentum against her, Bea tossed the canine to a tree smashing it.

''What in the- How did you even- I weight like 250 lbs!'' Zacian couldn't believe what just happened, that human just tossed her aside with little to no effort apparently, she was honestly impressed, maybe there was a chance that this girl could-

''At least you admit you're fat!''

''I'M GONNA KILL YOU!'' Well, there goes to chance.

'Maybe this wasn't the best idea...'

Zacian jumped forward and charged an Iron Head, Bea crossed her arms and took the hit absorbing most of the damage and sliding back, Bea then got closer to the Legendary and was about to land a punch on the wolf's face, before that, Zacian's eyes glowed red, three red translucent screens forming around her, blocking Bea's fist.

''Wide Guard?'' Bea asked surprised to see the literal all-out offensive Pokemon using a defensive move.

''You learn a thing or two after living with a walking shield.''

''Fine then.'' Bea started to launch a barrage of punches at high speed, all of them getting blocked by the shields.

''Just stop, you won't get throu-'' Zacian was interrupted when she heard a cracking sound, after a few more punches, one of Bea's fists broke the middle shield as if it was glass and proceeded to punch Zacian on her snout.

''How the-'' Another punch cut her complaints.

''What the hell are you?!''

''I'M A FIGHTING DREAMER!'' Bea shouted standing proud.

''Was that really necessary?''

Zacian received a few more blows from Bea, everytime making her flinch slightly but not causing much damage, Bea then raised her fist again and was about to hit on the right side of Zacian's face, the latter opened her mouth and bit her fist, however Zacian just caught it, she didn't penetrate her skin, she was a Legendary Pokemon after all, she couldn't let a mere human to get on her nerves, although that was exactly what was happening.

''I'm gonna give you another chance, stop this and leave, it'll be as if nothing had happened.''

''I'm not going anywhere!'' She shouted again trying to free her fist.

''Why are you even bothering? I am perfectly able of ripping off you arm.'' Zacian bit down a little, still not enough to cut her skin, but managing to cause Bea a big amount of pain.

''SHUT UP!'' Bea lowered her free arm and then raised an uppercut landing on Zacian's nose, causing the Pokemon to scream and open its mouth setting Bea free.

''You...YOU!'' Before Zacian could end her sentence, Bea landed two quick uppercuts and then a spin hook kick on the Legendary's face pushing her aside.

''What's wrong Miss Legendary?''

''THAT PLOT ARMOR IS NOT GOING TO PROTECT YOU FROM ME, DAMN IT!''

'This is honestly going better than I expected.' Bea said blocking another Iron Head.

''IF I HAD MY SWORD YOU'D BE DEAD ALREADY!''

''But you don't have it, do you?''

''AAARGH!''

''What do your items look like then?'' Ash asked to Zamazenta after hearing his story.

''Well, they should look like your classical sword and shield, their mostly golden, with blue and red details, however, since they've been separated from us for so long, by now they should have a rusted rock appearance along with ancient inscriptions and battle scars.''

''Got it, I'll keep my eyes open.''

''Do you accept my blessing then?''

''Yes...I accept it.''

''Perfect, now please kneel down.'' Ash did as told as Zamazenta's body was surrounded by a red energy, the energy parted from his body forming three red shields that orbited around the Legendary, the shields clashed into each other on top of Zamazenta and then they flew into Ash's body, glowing intensely for a few seconds until the light died down. ''Ash Ketchum, be proud of all the good you have done to the world, from now on you have my blessing, you are now the Shield Hero, we'll meet again and with your help the world will be illuminated.''

''Wow, that was..weird.'' Ash said getting up slightly dizzy.

''When the times comes, you'll be able to understand what this blessing truly means, but for now, continue your journey as usual, you're not some tool for Arceus, you are an amazing human being and we all owe you big time, this mission shouldn't stop you from doing what you want, we make our own purposes, Ash, now go make yours.''

''Thanks, Zamazenta.''

''No Ash, Thanks to you... I know! There's another gift I'd like to give you, everyone, please stand infront of Ash.'' All of the Pokemon who were watching the scene got closer to Ash and stood before the boy as Zamazenta spoke again. ''You can choose whoever of them you prefer to take with you.''

''Hmm...I've got a better Idea.'' Ash differed kneeling down close to the Pokemon. ''Which one of you guys would like to come with me? I'm taking the Gym challenge you know? So after we get out of this forest you're gonna be up for a mighty adventure with lots of battles!''

''You're asking them to choose, uh?'' Zamazenta said with a small grin. ''Shouldn't expect less from you.''

All the Pokemon formed a circle and started to talk with each other, after a few seconds they all nodded and one of the Rookidees stepped forward to Ash.

''Hmm, you're the Rookidee who challenged me to a battle right?'' Ash asked as the bird nodded. ''Heh, I got a feeling it was you, welcome to the family, Rookidee.'' He said offering a Poke Ball.

''ROOK!'' The bird raised it wing as a salute and then pecked the ball getting caught without resistance, right afterwards Ash released him and Rookidee said goodbye to everyone.

''One last thing before you leave, Rookide, please step forward.''

The bird flew and then stood infront of the Legendary Pokemon, similar to what happened with Ash, Zamazenta's body started to glow red, however, this time from it emerged a single red shield that quickly started to orbit around Rookidee to later be absorbed by the bird's body.

''All done, I have given you access to my Signature move, Behemoth Bash, quite comical, in my actual state I can't use it myself.''

''Why not?'' Ash asked as Rookidee flew to his head.

''Because I'm stuck in my 'base form' , without my Shield my powers are very limited, I can strengthen other beings like I did with your Dynamax Band and now with Rookidee but I can't do much for myself, right now I'm not much more than a support, a helping hand for that matter.''

''Don't you mean helping paw?'' Ash asked jokingly as Zamazenta laughed.

''Now you're getting it, anyway, Rookidee, from now on you'll be able to perform Behemoth Bash as you wish, use it well, use it wisely, you'll eventually become a Steel Type so it shouldn't be an issue, but you might need a few tries to handle it properly, it can be really powerful.''

''I accept your gift with great gratitude, Lord Zamazenta.'' Rookidee said with a bow.

''I'm not your Lord anymore, from now you serve to Ash, however Rookidee, I still have one final request for you.''

''Of course, Whatever you need, sir.''

''Make sure Ash leaves the weald safely, this place can be quite confusing at times.''

''With pleasure, please follow me, Lord Ash.'' Rookidee flew from Ash's head and started to lead the way.

''He'll take you out no problem, until we meet again, Ash Ketchum.''

''Until next time, Zamazenta.'' Ash waved goodbye following Rookidee

Back to Bea and Zacian, they had been wrestling for almost an hour now and neither of them seemed to be making any kind of progress, other than Bea still landing a few blows and dodging Zacian's attacks, but then again this was nothing like the fight with Obstagoon, that one was already tired and Bea had technically the Type advantage, Zacian being a perfectly healthy Fairy Type made things way more complicated.

Zacian's tail glowed white as she tried to attack Bea with several Tail Slaps while the latter blocked the hits with her forearms, Bea then hold Zacian's tail and managed to do a hammer throw tossing the Pokemon to a tree again, while Bea was physically tired, she starting to get confident about this fight considering her apparent advantage so far, Zacian on the other hand was honestly becoming tired of this nonsense.

''ENOUGH!'' Zacian yelled with an Hyper Voice, causing Bea to cover her ears in pain. The Legendary took her chance and jumped forward to hit Bea with an Iron Head landing flat on her stomach, Zacian then shook her head side to side violently while Bea tried to hold onto it, after a while, Bea was sent flying and rolled on the ground dislocating her hip on the process and crashing against a tree, her body now covered in bruises and abrasions. ''I should just have done that from the beginning...'' Perhaps she actually wanted to give her a chance.

And just like that, Bea's advantage ended as soon as it began, despite all that, Bea was still totally conscious; and although her mind was trying to tell her body to get up, it seemed like she wouldn't be able to do that for a while, Zacian decided that the fight was over and started to walk away, passing next to Bea, the Legendary was stopped by a sudden pull and she looked back to see Bea holding tightly one of her braids.

''Let me go, this is pointless.''

''NO! I WON'T LET YOU GO UNLESS YOU BLESS ME!'' Bea stretched her arm and wrapped the braid tighter around it managing to kneel down despite the pain that crept her whole body.

''And why the sudden interest in being a hero?''

''BECAUSE YOU'RE RIGHT!'' Bea yelled her lungs out . ''I know I'm not worthy of this, I know I'm a liar...I know...I know I'm not good enough for Ash and I know he deserves something better than me! That's all true, but I still want to help him!''

''He doesn't NEED your help!''

''I DON'T CARE!'' Bea tried to stand up but quickly fell down again, still holding Zacian's braids with the strength she had left. ''Ash...he has told me all those amazing things he had done and I...I am nothing compared to him, but he doesn't treat me as if I was less for that, he's always so kind and positive...he makes me feel so happy, I don't want your blessing because I want to be a hero, I want it because I won't let Ash get through this alone! I will not stay as an spectator while Ash fights the literal embodiment of death, I want to have the power to help him! That's why I'm doing this!''

Bea finally managed to get up, her whole body trembling. ''This is why I started my journey! Because I want to choose what I get to be! AND I...I CHOOSE THIS!'' Bea landed another blow on Zacian's face using her free hand, a very weak blow however, Bea couldn't even move Zacian a centimeter, she was too tired and her body dropped kneeling down again.

''...Even so, this mask of yours can't last forever, Ash will have to meet you eventually, Saito.'' Zacian looked down at the girl, the boastful nature of the Legendary finally starting to decay.

''I know...I'll find a way to explain it to him, I swear!''

''So this is what you choose...I give in...I'll give you my blessing.''

''B-But...I didn't win.''

''There's a whole lot more in fighting that just winning, Saito...your perseverance is admirable, futile in this case, but admirable nonetheless.'' Zacian's body glowed blue as the light emerged from her body forming three blue swords that orbited around her, the swords then clashed in the air and surrounded Bea, being absorbed by her body as she was surrounded by a strong blue light that faded shortly afterwards. ''...Saito Beatrice Shinka, you have striven with a god on your own and have prevail, from now on you have my blessing, you are now the Sword Hero, we'll meet again and with your help the world will be illuminated... But keep in mind that you still have your demons to face...now go, your friend must be worried.'' Bea made a weak smile letting the braid go and letting herself fall onto the ground, Zacian then started to walk away, after a few steps she looked back at Bea who was having a big struggle to get back up, she gave Bea her blessing, but she didn't heal her wounds. ''Perhaps I went too far...'' Zacian then noticed Cinderace's Premier Ball a few feet away from her, seems like it got out of her pocket during the wrestle, the Legendary Pokemon walked to the Poke Ball, grabbing it with her mouth, she then tossed the ball to a tree and disappeared in the fog before Cinderace came out of the ball.

''Bea, what's wrong?'' Cinderace looked around and quickly spotted her trainer injured on the ground. ''BEA! Oh no, no, no, Bea! Hang in there!''

''C-Cinderace-''

''No, don't talk, save your strength, I'll take you out of here.'' Cinderace put Bea's arm over her shoulder and tried to get her out of the weald as fast as she could.

''YOU DID WHAT?!'' Zamazenta shouted to his sister.

''I did what I considered the best for everyone!''

''The best for everyone or the best for you?! You could have killed her!''

''She insulted me!''

''And you let that get through you?! You're a member of the Hero duo! You're suppose to be an example of dignity and justice!''

''That was MY decision! I gave her my blessing anyway.''

''HOW COULD YOU BE SO CHILDISH?!''

''CHILDISH?! I'LL SHOW YOU CHILDISH!'' Zacian charged a Psychic fang as her brother scoffed a weak laugh after her sentence.

''What's so funny?'' Zacian asked.

''Oh, nothing...Bea said that exact thing a while ago...you and her are not so different.''

''Don't you try to lecture me, Zamazenta!''

''...She said that too...''

''HOW DARE YOU-''

''Zacian, please stop embarrassing yourself, Grandpa Sif would be so disappointed...Still, I don't feel like you did was right.''

''Zamazenta, you and I always had different visions of the world, let's leave it like that, to each their own.''

''Considering Bea's current situation what she needed was comfort.''

''What she needed was a smack of reality and that what I gave her, Saito has to face her problems or else they will consume her from the inside.''

''Zacian...''

''Stop it, Zamazenta, I will not discuss this further, what's done is done...'' Zacian started to walk away leaving her brother alone.

''...You still don't get the full picture, sister...''

''It's been hours already...'' Ash was infront the outsides of the forest along with Victor and Gloria waiting for Bea to exit the weald. ''Im going back in!''

''I'm going with you!'' Gloria said walking behind him.

''You can't go back!'' Victor stood infront of them. ''You could get lost again!''

''Rookidee can guide me! I'm not staying just here, Bea could-'' Ash was about to cross the gate again, until he noticed a figure in the dark fog walking towards them. ''...Bea?'' When the fog cleared just enough Ash got the sight of an injured Bea being carried by Cinderace.

''BEA! What Happened?!'' Ash exclaimed running towards the girl and her Pokemon.

''Ash...I...'' She looked him in the eyes and tried to say something but her eyes closed as she fell forward, Cinderace and Ash stopping her from hitting the ground.

''Bea! BEA!''

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

''Ash?''

Bea woke up in the bed of a hospital room, the rays of the morning sun surrounding the place, she stared at the roof for a few minutes trying to remember what had happened. ''Zacian...'' After getting back the memories, Bea analyzed her encounter for a minute, getting what you might call a post-fight clarity, she tried to fight a Legendary Pokemon with her bare hands! What the hell was she thinking? Well, she got the blessing at last. ''Worth it...'' She made a small smile but then flinched placing her hand on her forehead softly trying to ease a sudden headache that came to her, Bea finally sat down with a light struggle letting her back rest of the forehead of the bed, she then looked at her surroundings spotting a sleeping Ash sitting on a chair next to her bed, with his Pikachu sleeping on his legs. Bea stood there looking at him for a few minutes, he looked peaceful yet worried at the same time. Bea slowly rubbed his cheek with her hand staying still a few seconds, then she placed her hand on Ash's shoulder and after a short hesitation she shook him softly.

''...Ash, wake up.''

''Bea?'' Ash said on his drowsiness and then blinked a few times looking at the girl. ''...BEA!'' Ash jumped from his chair, accidentally letting Pikachu fall onto the ground, the boy then put his arms around Bea's neck trapping her in a hug, freezing Bea in the process. ''You're finally awake! I was so worried!''

''Whaaaa-'' Bea's cheeks turned red as she processed the situation, when she finally reacted, she breathed slowly and tried her best to stay calm. ''Ash...How long have I been?''

''This would be the fourth day.'' He answered bluntly still hugging her.

''So three days...'' Bea sighed relieved, that may sound like a lot but she expected to hear something way worse than that.

''We brought you here as soon as Cinderace got you out of the weald, Nurse Joy said that your injuries were superficial, but we were still really worried, hang on, I'm gonna find Nurse Joy and tell her you're awake.'' Ash tried to break out his hug, but Bea quickly extended her arms around him, finally reciprocating the hug holding him as tight as she could.

''Bea?''

''Please...stay with me a little longer.'' The words came out of her mouth on her own and Bea tried to hide her blushed face on Ash's shoulder, funny enough, for Bea that hug felt warmer than the hugs that Cinderace, a Fire Type often shared with her.

''Of course.'' Ash smiled and hugged her tighter as well. ''Pikachu, can you go call Nurse Joy?''

''Pika!'' The mouse said from the floor, mildly annoyed that Ash left him fall on the ground but Happy to see Bea awake, The rodent then made his way out of the room leaving the trainers alone.

''So, where are we?'' Bea asked.

''We're in a hospital in Wedgehurst, your Pokemon went to eat just a few moments ago, we tried to look for your parents in Postwick, but they weren't anywhere to be found, do you know why?''

''...They probably just went on a trip...I'll talk with them later.'' Here we go again.

''I see...and where is your trainer ID? We couldn't find it on your backpack or clothes, Cinderace didn't know where it was either.''

''My...trainer ID?'' A memory just struck on her, she has been carrying her trainer ID with her real name on her backpack the whole time, thank Arceus that Ash didn't find it. But if they didn't find it then where it was? ''I'm not sure, I could have lost it during the Zigzagoon thing or during that Team Rocket incident.''

''That makes sense, we actually had a problem because of that, since we couldn't find your family and you had no trainer ID, the staff didn't want to register you in the Hospital, thankfully Sonia helped us with that...I was seriously going to order Pikachu to electrocute someone if they didn't check you in.'' Ash said the last sentence with an embarrassed tone.

''You were?'' Bea pictured on her mind a scene of Ash threatening someone and she couldn't help but giggle softly.

''Yeah...Back then we had no way to know if your injuries were serious, so we really needed to get you checked.''

''My, sorry about the bother.''

''No, it's fine, that's why I bought you this.'' Ash broke out the hug much to Bea's discomfort, he then searched for a small box on his backpack. ''TA-DA! Is your own Rotom Phone, now you can replace your trainer ID and all that stuff.'' The silver phone flew from the box and landed on Bea's hand.

'''Wow...I...Thanks...Ash, I feel like you're worrying too much about me.''

''Nonsense, I think I'm worrying just enough.'' Ash sat on Bea's bed next to her. ''Well, go ahead, give it a try.''

''I...Maybe later.'' Bea put the phone aside.

''Well, yeah, I think we should wait until Nurse Joy checks you before doing anything.''

''Thanks Ash, really.''

''No worries, so...you talked with Zacian?''

''Yes...I guess you talked with Zamazenta as well.''

''I did... I'm sorry, I feel like I dragged you into all this Legendary Pokemon and world saving stuff.''

''Don't worry, I'm glad to help, guess it comes with the 'Ash Ketchum's companion package.'' Bea's pun caused them both to share a laugh. ''Looks like I'll be your sword.''

''I'll be your shield then.''

''CINDERAAAACE!' The Fire starter kicked the door along the rest of Bea's Pokemon and rushed to hug her, the rabbit then put Bea's hairband on her head and started to talk. 'BEA! Oh god, I'm so glad you're okay, what happened to you?! It was Zacian, right? THAT NINE TAILED BITCH! I'M GONNA KILL THAT HOE! ...Be right back.'' Cinderace was about to leave the room but her trainer stopped her.

''Cinderace, wait, it was nothing really, I just...I just fell off from a tree, I tried to go high to see if I could find the exit of the weald, it's nothing to worry about.''

''YOU FELL FROM A TREE?!''

''...Yes...''

''Oh, ok.'' Cinderace raised her shoulders and hugged her trainer again.

10:00 PM

A few minutes after she woke up, Nurse Joy came to give Bea a full check, she said that surprisingly everything seemed alright, but Bea had to stay one more night, Nurse Joy also asked to let Bea rest alone in her room, much to the complaints of Ash and Bea's Pokemon, but they all obeyed, Bea was in her bed, with the Rotom Phone that Ash gifted her in her hands, after a lot of thinking, Bea sighed and pressed the phone.

The Rotom Phone loaded and gave Bea a request. ''Please place your finger on the screen.'' Bea did as told as the phone scanned her. ''Fingerprint scan complete...User found...Saito Beatrice Shinka, loading profile.'' She sighed again, that was the reason why she didn't want to use the phone infront of Ash, although her profile was pretty much empty, it will give away the most important thing, she swore to Zacian she would find a way of telling Ash the true, but that was not the way she wanted to do it.

''Loading Profile:''

''Name: Saito Beatrice Shinka.''

''Hometown: Stow-on-Side, Galar.''

''Age: 16.''

''Last Updated Pokemon Team: Cinderace, Hitmontop, Quilladin.''

''Affiliation: N/A.''

''Trainer Class: N/A.''

''Battle record: N/A.''

''News: N/A.''

''Profile ready, do you have any requests?''

''...Delete this profile.'' She ordered.

''Are you sure you wish to delete this profile?''

''Yes...go ahead.''

''Understood, deleting profile...profile deleted, do you wish to create a new profile?''

''Yes, please.''

''Please place your finger on the screen.''

''Fingerprint scan complete.''

The front camera of the Phone then iluminated for a second. ''Face scan complete.'' After loading a few seconds the phone did another request. ''Please state profile user's name.''

''This mask of yours can't last forever, Ash will have to meet you eventually, Saito.

''Not forever...But at least for now...Bea...my name is Bea.''

''Name loaded, nice to meet you Bea, I'll be at your service, do you wish to detail further your trainer profile?''

''Thanks, but I won't do it now, you can rest.''

''Understood.'' The phone took flight and got inside Bea's backpack which was resting in a nearby chair.

''Not yet...just not yet.''

Next day Ash and Bea met with Nurse Joy to give Bea one final check. ''Seems like everything's fine.'' Nurse Joy said while checking her eyes. ''I'll discharge you, Bea, take care.''

''Thanks, Nurse Joy.'' She answered.

''You take care of her too Ash, she might get some headaches now and then, but it seems like she'll fully recover without problems.''

''Of course, thanks Nurse Joy.''

''I'll trust her to you then, after all, you already got quite the experience from this days, didn't you?''

''What do you mean?'' Bea asked.

''He didn't tell you? Ash spent your whole stay in the hospital helping us with your care.''

''W-What?! You really-?!''

''W-Well, of course, we're partners after all.''

''I honestly thought you would have challenged another Gym in the meantime.''

''You thought I would abandon you here to your own devices just like that?!''

''T-That's not what I meant! I know you're really noble, but I feel like you're worrying way too much about me.''

''As I said yesterday, I think I'm worrying just enough.''

''You...Alright, let's go to Motostoke!'' Bea grabbed his wrist and lead the way out of the hospital.

''Bea, are you sure?'' Ash asked worried. ''We can stay longer if you don't feel fine just yet.''

''Ash, I told you I'm fine.'' She stopped the dragging and looked at him. ''I already made you lost half a week, I don't want to keep being a burden to you.''

''You're not a burden!'' Ash freed his wrist and placed both his hands over Bea's shoulders. ''Stop talking like that, if I stayed here is because I wanted to, not because it was an obligation, I didn't lost half a week, I spend it taking care of you.''

''...Of course...Please excuse me.'' Bea apologized and kept walking outside of the Hospital with Ash walking by her side. 'Why are you like this, Ash?' Bea thought for herself. 'The more time I spent with you, the harder it is to say what I'm really wanting to say.'

''Hey, Ash, Bea!''

''Gloria, Victor, what's up guys?'' Ash greeted the brothers.

''I just got my sixth badge!'' Gloria showed Ash a golden badge with the design of three silver gears linked in a triangle. ''We came back to Wedgehurst to see how you were doing, glad to see you're ok, Bea.''

''Thanks for worrying, guys.'' Bea said.

''Say, Gloria, where are you going next?'' Ash asked.

''With the Steel Badge I already challenged all the Gyms in the southern region of Galar, so the Plan is to go to the north, we'll go to Motostoke and then we'll decide what's next.''

''Really? Well, we were going to Motostoke too, so-''

''Wait!'' Gloria interrupted her. ''Are you-''

''Would you like to travel with us?'' He asked.

''...'' Gloria stood speechless for a moment

''...Gloria?'' Ash called her again.

''I-Is this the real life?'' Gloria asked, her eyes starting to drop tears.

''Yes...well, at least I think it is.''

''YES! I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY, REALLY, REALLY WOULD LIKE TO TRAVEL WITH YOU! MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE IN THE WIDE WORLD!''

''Oh...great!''

''ALRIIIIIIGHT!'' Gloria shouted hugging her Drizzile.

''You are not gonna ask my opinion?'' Victor cut his sister's celebration. ''Like, sure, I'm okay with it, but what if I told you I couldn't go along? Would you just go with Ash and leave me behind?''

''Vic, a wise man once said: 'Don't ask questions you don't want to know the answer to'.'' Gloria's look said everything.

''...Rude...well, of course I would like to go too, I must admit that at first I only traveled with Gloria because I thought that she wouldn't be able to take care of herself.''

''HEY!''

''But I've been enjoying this traveling a lot and going along a champion would be a great opportunity for both of us, that's if you accept of course.''

''Well, it's fine by me.'' Ash said. ''What about you, Bea?''

''The more, the merrier, I guess.'' She responded.

''ALRIGHT!''

''Alright then.''

''This will be great! I promise!'' Gloria said to Ash. ''Victor can cook, you know? He can be the Brock of the group!''

''The what?'' Victor asked.

''Heh, alright everyone, Let's go to to Motostoke!'' Ash pointed to the horizon with a pose.

''LET'Z GO NOW!'' Gloria began to sing. ''GET READY BECAUSE WE AIN'T BACKIN' DOWN! LET'Z GO NOW! BECAUSE THIS THING IS GETTING WILD!''

''...What was that?'' Ash asked.

''Oh, sorry, it's your theme song, we call it 'IKUZE!' and we made it back in the fan club we have another one called 'Gotta catch em' all', but I like this one better, I'm just really excited!'' Gloria started to run to the train station leaving the rest of the group behind.

''This will surely be interesting.'' Victor said following her sister leaving Ash and Bea alone.

''Did Zamazenta tell you about the Darkest day?'' Bea asked.

''Yes, he did, he told me we need to find their Sword and Shield before Eternatus returns, they were stolen but the items are still somewhere in Galar.''

''I see...'' A concerned tone could be heard in Bea's voice.

''Are you worried?''

''Maybe a little, I know your record and all that now, but the stories I read about the Darkest day are very frightening, Eternatus is simply something else. Things could get really rough.''

''Well, I don't care if the things get rough, cause I'm sure that you and I can make it through.'' Ash smiled and offered her a fist bump, Bea gladly returned the gestures.

''...You and I...''

As the group went to the train station, Zacian and Zamazenta were watching them from their altar.

''Good luck, Ash, good luck, Bea.'' Zamazenta said with a proud smile.

''Why do you even call her that?'' Her sister asked mildly annoyed.

''If she feels comfortable with that then I'm no one to judge.''

''I still don't think this will end well.''

''I beg to differ, I'm sure they'll be fine as long as they have each other.''

''...Guess we'll wait and see...Until we meet again...Fighting Dreamers...''

''aaaaand roll credits.''

''SHUT THE H-!''