pokemon Fighting Dreamers

Stow-on-side stadium, early morning.

This chapter starts with a muscular middle-aged brown-skinned man, he had deep black eyes, short and grey hair and he spotted a thick, well-trimmed beard, his clothing consisted of a classic white Karate-gi with black and orange lines around it, along with the insignia of the Fighting Gym and the number 193 stamped on his back, black shoulder and knee pads on each one of them, and a golden belt around his belt, similar to that of a Machamp, Habe Shinka was the name of that man, he was alone on his room looking at his reflection in the mirror and there was something that has been bothering him lately.

''Did you call me, sir?'' Someone asked from the door.

''Yes, Genta, please come inside.'' Habe asked recognizing the voice as the younger man opened the door. ''I was checking up some things...'' The man started to walk towards Genta. ''And I suppose I should show this.'' He handed over a tablet with a blank screen.

''And what is 'this'?''

''This is Saito's trainer profile, well, it used to be, apparently she deleted it recently...It looks like she really isn't planning on returning.''

''And so? You've been rather calm about this whole situation, Sir...But that makes me think, aren't you worried?''

''...That's not the word I would use...Genta, you were the last person who talked with her, right?'' Genta always talks to her for a few minutes before she goes to sleep, however, despite being the person that Bea trusted the most back then, she didn't say a word about her plan to him.

''Yes, I was, we talked before sleeping as always but she was acting normal.''

''I see...Genta is there something you're not telling me about her escape?''

''I would never lie to you, Sir.'' Genta did his best effort act calm.

''I never said that, I fully trust your loyalty, Genta, but since you were the person he trusted the most it's normal that I have suspicions, am I correct?''

''Of course, I understand, Sir.''

''Now back to our issue with Saito...What do you think about this?''

''...I might admit I'm worried, of course Miss Shinka can perfectly take care of herself, but why would she erase her profile just now? If she had the audacity to escape, this doesn't seems to be something she would pospone, she would have done it right before leaving or not done it at all.''

''...Tell Takeru and his troop to start looking for her, you said she was going to the north last time you saw her, right?''

''C-Correct, sir.'' He had honestly forgot about that part. ''But are you sure we should look for her? After all it's been three weeks, Miss Shinka could be in another region already as far as we know.''

''We don't lose anything trying, now do we?''

''N-No, of course not.''

''Fine, inform the rest about this.''

''I'll do it in a moment, now Sir, about the Gym leader reunion.''

''Sigh, do I really have to go?'' The man turned his normally serious expression to an unusual annoyed one.

''I'm afraid so, Sir, Mr. Kabu was very specific with his request.''

''...Fine then, Genta, you're coming to Motostoke with me.''

''As you wish.'' Genta said walking outside the room. 'I hope Miss Shinka is far away already.'

?, ?

Ash Ketchum found himself in what we might call the nothingness, surrounded by nothing but deep darkness on every direction.

''What is this place?'' He asked as his voice echoed around.

''You...you're still alive.'' A voice that Ash instantly recognized caused him to freeze for a few second, he finally snapped out and started to look around.

A bright pink light descended from the sky until it was infront of Ash, the light then died down revealing a Pokemon. ''Mewtwo?'' Ash asked confused, that was not the voice he heard.

''Surprised?'' The same voice he heard spoke from behind him, Ash turned around to find Giovanni smirking at him.

''Giovanni! What are doing here? What is this place?'' Ash tried to search for a Poke ball on his pocket but he didn't found anything, then he noticed something, he was wearing the outfit he used during his travels on Kanto and Johto, but it was red instead of blue. ''Why am I-?''

''Does that even matters?'' Giovanni walked towards Mewtwo and then snapped his fingers as the Psychic charged a DNA patterned orb pointing it at Ash.

''Mewtwo! What are you doing?!'' Ash exclaimed.

''What do you think?'' Giovanni asked showing Ash a Master Ball.

''No...'' Ash simply whispered as he received the attack and everything turned black for him.

He regained his vision again, Ash now found himself in a rocky beach with debris scattered all around, now wearing a green version of his Hoenn outfit with a symbol that looked like an stylized yellow letter D on his chest, he looked around until he heard a faint growl, Ash quickly followed it and then he found himself in front of an injured and moribund Rayquaza.

''Rayquaza!'' Ash to get closer to the Legendary, but the earth began to shake, Groudon rose from the ground and Kyogre appeared in the surface of the sea. Both Pokemon roared shooting attacks at Rayquaza as the Delta Pokemon vanished in the air infront of Ash.

''Kyogre?! Groudon?! ...What did you do?!''

''Well, now that nuisance is gone.''

''About darn time!''

Ash looked back, finding Archie and Maxie standing next to each other.

''What do you say? Is our little truce over?'' Archie asked.

''Not yet.'' Maxie answered. ''We still need to get rid of their leader, that way Team Delta will be truly gone.''

''Without their protection, Hoenn will drown in despair.''

''And after that, I'll be on the two of us.''

''Team Delta?'' before Ash could react Kyogre and Groudon charged their attacks again pointing at him, everything turned black again.

''Ash, don't worry, I got you.'' A voice called him as he partly regaining his vision, Ash tried to look around again, he was on the back of a Mega-Salamence laying down and he could feel pain all around his body, there was someone next to him but his vision was too blurry to distinct the person.

''Who...who are you?'' Ash tried to ask.

''What? I-I'm Zinnia, you don't remember me?''

Ash finally regained his vision fully, taking a glance at the girl, but she was someone he has never seen before. ''I-I don't.'' Ash tried to sit down but the pain surged further on his body.

''No, don't get up! You're too injured!'' Zinnia put him back down slowly. ''I'll take you with grandma, everything will be okay, I promise! Salamence, we have to go faster!'' Zinnia then put both her hands over Ash's chest pressing him slightly.

''What are you doing?''

''I-I'm trying to transfer aura to you, but it doesn't work, I can't concentrate! You don't remember anything?''

''Sorry, I...I don't know you.''

''What do you mean? I'm your girlfriend!''

''You...what?'' Can this get any weirder?

''Sorry! Sorry! You must be confused after that fight, you just need to rest.''

''The fight, what happened to Rayquaza?''

''Rayquaza is gone...but it's alright, I don't care if Team Aqua and Magma destroy Hoenn, as long as I have you I'll be fine.''

''W-We can't just let them destroy Hoenn.'' Ash then sensed a frail energy on his pocket, he tried to reach it, but the pain didn't let him, Zinnia looked at his movement and reached his pocket for him, finding a glowing green triangle.

''This is a Rayquaza scale...Ash, y-you got a scale before they could end him, this is it! If we find the meteorite we could revive him and with its Mega evolution I'm sure Rayquaza will be able to stop them!''

''...Then you...you have to do it.''

''W-What do you mean? WE are going to do it!''

''I...'' Ash was about to faint again.

''No, no, no, don't close your eyes, we're almost there.'' Zinnia was about to start crying. ''Ash, please, I beg you, ASTER KETCHUM, IF YOU LEAVE ME ALONE! ...I-If you leave me alone.'' Zinnia finally bursted out tears, lying on his chest, Ash still didn't understand, but his body moved on its own and he placed a hand on her hair trying to comfort her.

''I...sorry.'' That was all Ash could say giving out one last breath.

''ASH!''

All black again.

Ash was now in the Spear pillar with his Sinnoh clothes, unlike the last times, his clothes were exactly the same, but his hair was blue with some streaks of yellow instead of black and a Silvally was accompanying him, Ash looked around, spotting five persons with their Pokemon, Riley and his Lucario, Mira and her Alakazam, Cheryl and her Blissey, Marley and her Arcanine; and Buck and his Claydol. All of them were on the ground and were trying to get up, looking to the skies, Ash noticed that everything was gray, even the sun, everything except for him, his friends and their Pokemon, the whole quintet finally got up and walked towards Ash.

''Guys...'' Ash began to talk once all six were close enough. ''Why are we-''

''Still alive?'' Marley interrupted. ''Good question.''

''This is really weird.'' Cheryl said looking around.

''Mira's feeling normal tho.''

''Yo, Riley, any idea of all this?'' Buck asked.

''No, I don't, but it looks like we still have allies on the hall of origins.'' Riley responded as two cracks appeared on the sky.

''W-What is going on?'' Ash tried to stutter.

''What's going on is that you failed.'' A voice answered from the cracks.

''...Cyrus.'' Ash said looking at the man, descending from the sky accompanied by Dialga and Palkia.

''If it isn't Ketchum's Sinnohian tour group.'' The man said as he landed.

''We are the StatDust trainers!'' Buck exclaimed.

''That sounded better in your head, didn't it?'' Riley asked.

''How ridiculous, still, even after all the trouble you have caused me I still respect you, so I'm giving you a chance, surrender now and join me in my quest.''

''Mira would rather put a Choice Band on her Alakazam than joining you!'' The toddler said sticking out her tongue.

''We are not like you! We know what's right!'' Cheryl said.

''You lost your way long ago!'' Marley exclaimed pointing at him, leaving her usually dead stare to make a rather angry one. ''And we'll punish you for that!''

''We'll stand up together against every obstacle you give us!'' Riley continued.

''Alright now! Let's break him down!'' Buck shouted.

Everyone then looked at Ash but he was too confused to come up with an stereotypic heroic phrase.

''Don't you get it? The world is now peaceful, you could be part of it, no more sadness, no more war, no more discrimination, no more strife, no more anger, why wouldn't you want to be part of this world as well?''

''If we can feel sadness, we can feel joy.'' Ash took a step forward as he started to talk, but he didn't know where those words were coming from. ''If we can feel anger, we can feel compassion, you can't have one without the other.''

''...You sound just like her...of course, you were with her all the time, I was always the bad cop, how pathetic.'' Cyrus walked past Ash and his team until he was in the edge of the pillar, while Palkia and Dialga still floated over him. ''Still, It seems like I've failed too, if this is the world I've envisioned, then why I don't feel satisfied?''

''Cyrus! You have to turn everything back to normal!'' Ash demanded as Silvally roared behind him.

''I couldn't do that even if I wanted to do so, but well, you said I should enjoy the little things, right? ...Then let me enjoy this.''

Cyrus raised his hand and both Palkia and Dialga shot their signature moves at Ash and company.

All black again.

The scene changed again, Ash was now wearing a black and white version of his Unova outfit, in some place that looked like a throne room, with several white hooded figures surrounding him as they began to chant.

''GHEEETSIS!''

''This isn't-''

''GHEEETSIS!''

''No-''

''GHEEETSIS!''

''STOP!''

''GHEEETSIS!''

''This can't be real, this can't be right! It just can't be!''

''Oh, but it can be! And it is!'' Ghetsis appeared behind Ash, he then tried to smack him with his cane and Ash jumped back barely avoiding it.

''You aren't- This isn't- NO! None of this is real!'' Although Ash finally realized this was a dream, all the scenes so far felt way too real.

''Wanting to push your believes as always, to think after you defeated N and both Reshiram and Zekrom joined you, you still couldn't save any of them.''

''What did you do to N?!''

''Let's just say Hydreigon already needed a new toothpick.''

''You bastard...''

''KYUREM!'' Ghetsis smacked his cane on the ground as the icy Pokemon appeared behind him. ''GLACIATE!''

Kyurem froze the air around him, creating several ice spears, but before they could reach Ash, a giant flame appeared behind him, the flare took the form of the letter V and destroyed the icy spears with a Victini appearing in a explosion of flames.

''Sorry for the delay, Ash.'' Victini talked to him. ''I'm back and I brought reinforcements!''

''Victini, you are tal-'' Ash was interrupted by another explosion occured in the entrance of the throne room, the dust revealed Meloetta, the sword of justices, Keldeo, the forces of nature and the 5 Genesects.

''It's time to end this!'' Victini said taking place on Ash's shoulder as the rest of the legends stood next to him. ''Hilda and Rosa's sacrifices were not in vain.''

''Hilda and Rosa?'' Ash asked.

''Oh, right, your two friends...'' Ghetsis gained his attention again with a laugh. ''It's truly a shame what happened to them, what a terrible accident.''

''I'M GONNA BURN YOU ALIVE!'' Victini shouted jumping from Ash's shoulder and charging another V-create, Ghetsis smacked his cane on the ground again, two gates opening behind him, revealing a Zekrom and a Reshiram, both of them chained and fainted.

''Kyurem, Absofusion!'' Kyurem roared as the ice on his wings broke leaving two slim appendages, each one of them pointed at a dragon absorbing them inside of Kyurem, the latter then began to glow and grow, a massive dragonic creature was now taking his place.

''Behold the original Tao Dragon!'' Ghetsis shouted, said Pokemon roared at the roof, sending it flying up as it changed to Overdrive mode, cold air, flares and bolts emerging from his body. ''I wanted you to be the first one to see it, and you just brought every legendary in the Unova region to me, now I can get rid of all you together, now...hehe, now we will show the world that we are the ones who are right! Fusion Plasma Blast!''

The dragon charged a massive burst of energy infront of him, as the rest of Legendaries prepared themselves.

Everything turned black again.

Now walking though a burning flower field using a black version of his Kalos attire, Ash found Lysandre who was sitting in the ground looking at the sunset.

''Well...does it really feels that good to be the one standing in the end?'' Lysandre asked.

''This is...you...what did you do?!'' Sick of all this scenes, Ash straight up punched the man on the face, knocking him to the ground, needless to say, this movement surprised Ash himself, Lysandre simply got up with a laugh.

''I didn't do anything you didn't know that was going to happen.''

''NO! You're dead! I saw you die!''

''How interesting, I was just about to say the same thing.''

''What do you mean?! What is all this?!''

''What do you think, Ash? We could have done so many beautiful things together, you were doing so great as a Team Flare Admin, remember what you told me? 'I see that you don't wanna set the world in fire...you just wanna start a flame in our hearts.' ...You were the one who fully understood me...but then you decided to betray me and take over Team Flare...Stupid Malva.''

''W-What are you talking about?! I'd never join Team Flare!''

''Of course...it seems you're not the Ash I met...that's alright...I don't need you anymore neither.'' As Lysandre ended his speech, a 100% forme Zygarde emerged from the ground.

''Zygarde, get rid of him.''

''...Seconded.'' Zygarde responded. ''Attacking Motion carried.'' The order Pokemon then opened the mouth on his chest charging an attack.

''Squishy, Stop!'' Ash tried to talk sense into the Legendary. ''You did this?! You're supposed to protect Kalos!''

''You are now our foe...'' One of the voices inside Zygarde talked.

''The legend stands...'' The other voice continued.

''Our Aura flows...'' Both voices talked together. ''ALL ACROSS THIS LAND!''

Zygarde shot a Core Enforcer to the ground, creating a Z-shaped crack that opened beneath Ash as he fell inside a green hole and everything turned black once more.

Now with his Alolan clothes and a black cap, Ash was walking through Aether Paradise.

'I'm really starting to get tired of this.' Ash said to himself as he looked through the windows, seeing an army of ultra beats attacking Alola. ''What the-'' Ash then heard the ceiling breaking, a horde of various Ultra Beasts surrounding him, with Faba appearing from one of the nearby doors.

''Faba?! You're behind this? I-I thought you changed!'' Ash exclaimed as the Buzzwole grabbed him with one of his arms.

''Changed? Nah, I had just to distract myself a little.''

''But Lusamine forgave you, we all did, we thought you'd become a good person!''

''Good? No, not good, never good...after all, I'm only human.'' Faba clapped as Buzzwole pressed Ash tighter, if this was a dream, then why the hell everything hurts so much?

''Poor Ash Ketchum, no father, no mother, all alone.''

''W-what?'' Ash tried to talk, fighting the lack of oxygen.

''HE'S NOT ALONE!'' One of the walls of the building exploded revealing Hapu and her Golurk.

''H-Hapu.''

''Ash! You god damn idiot! I told you to leave it like that! But no! You had to play hero! What am I going to do with you?!''

''Attack!'' Faba shouted.

''Take me up!'' Hapu ordered as Golurk changed into rocket mode and took flight, Hapu then released a Gliscor than flew do down to hit the Buzzwole with Acrobatics, the scorpion then took Ash and flew back to Hapu's Golurk who was fighting back the Ultra beasts with his cannons.

''Guess it's my turn to be the part-time hero.'' Hapu then tossed a silver-blue artifact that looked like a top, said artifact started to spin on the ground creating a triangular blue portal that absorbed most of the Ultra beasts, while the remaining ones escaped scared, leaving only Ash, Hapu, Faba and their Pokemon in the building.

''Ash, are you okay?''

''Uh, yeah, I think-''

''YOU MORON! I told you to not come here alone, but had to get your vengeance! I told you to stop watching the Punisher! You are such a-''

While Hapu was ranting, Ash's hand moved on its own and started to scratch her chin, calming her down.

''Ah, that feels good-'' Hapu then snapped out and knocked Ash's hand away of her. ''Y-You know I can't resist that! You cheater!''

''I'm still here, you know?'' Faba said from affar.

''S-Surrender now, Faba!'' Hapu stuttered. ''You have no more Pokemon!''

''It seems like that's right, but I still have a gift for you.''

''Gift?'' Hapu asked.

''That's right! It's a parting gift... in that it will part you. Part of you here, part of you there, part of you waaaay over there... staining the wall!'' As Faba ended the reference, he pressed a button in the side of his glasses, teleporting himself away.

''He's gone!'' Hapu exclaimed.

''Feel...MY...LIIIIIGHT!'' A voice echoed from the sky, Hapu and Ash ran outside the building and looked up seeing Necrozma in its ultra form descending to them.

''Necrozma.'' Ash said under his breath.

''...Ash, you said that thing was good, right?'' Hapu asked worried.

''Uh, yes.''

''Then why do I hear boss music?! Aren't you hearing the organs?!''

''Y-Yes, I hear them, but I'm sure it's just a misunderstanding, right Necrozma?''

''FEEL MY LIGHT! MY SHINING LIGHT! MY LIGHT! THE LIGHT BURN THIS WORTHLESS SKY! THE LIGHT! LIIIIIGHT! OH, THIS IS MY LIGHT! MY SHINING LIIIIGHT! O-OH, CAN YOU FEEL IT? CAN YOU? FEEL! MY! LIGHT! MY SHINING LIGHT! THE LIGHT! THE LIGHT THAT BURNS IT ALL DOWN! MY LIGHT!''

''Well, that sounded very explicit.'' Hapu said. ''Golurk, get us out of here!'' The automaton turned into rocket mode and took Ash and Hapu in each of his hands flying away as Necrozma followed him from behind.

''W-Wow, we're actually going faster than him.'' Ash said.

''Rock Polish is very useful.'' Hapu replied as she activated a watch she had on her wrist and called someone, the call was then answered by a young blue-skinned girl with a particular set of glasses. ''Zossie, how is the evacuation going?''

''These are the last ones.'' Zossie answered as a group of Stufful and Bewear crossed a portal. ''Every person and Pokemon in Alola in now safe.''

''Great, can you send a portal to our location?''

''Let me see.'' Zossie tried to triangulate Hapu's position. ''Hey, why are you moving so much?''

''BECAUSE WE'RE BEING FOLLOWED BY SOME PRISM-DRAGON-LION-BAT-MONSTER THING!''

''Ok, Ok! I'll make a portal a close as I can! But don't let Necrozma get in by any chance.''

''Roger that.'' Hapu said closing the call. ''Ash, use Decidueye to stop it! If that thing catches us and crosses the portal too we're totally doomed!''

''What? I-'' Ash tried to play along and simply searched on his pocket for what should be Rowlet's Poke Ball, he released it, as a Decidueye stood in top of Golurk, looking at Ash awaiting for orders. ''Wow...''

''ASH!''

''R-Right! Decidueye, Spirit Shackle!'' The owl nodded and drew and arrow quill from his wing, a shadowy aura surrounding the arrow, Decidueye then let the arrow go, the projectile looped around Necrozma until it hit it the chest, stopping its moves completely.

''Alright!'' Hapu celebrated as the portal opened behind them. ''Let's go Golurk!'' The automaton flew to the portal, but a massive light that came from behind distracted them, it was Necrozma about to shot a move but instead of targeting them, Necrozma tossed the attack to the island of Alola creating a massive explosion, the light quickly died down and all four islands were totally gone.

''A-Alola...'' Hapu trailed off as she began to cry.

Seeing how Hapu still hadn't react, Ash decided to give the order. ''...Golurk, get us out of here.''

Golurk flew through the portal, just in that moment, Necrozma broke out of the Spirit Shackle, but the portal closed just in time before he could get in.

''We made it...'' Ash said as they entered a futuristic city, the people of Alola looking at their arrival in the streets, as Golurk landed Ash looked at Hapu, who was still crying.

''W-We...Ash, Alola is-''

''I know, maybe if we-'' Ash was interrupted by a stinging pain on his chest, he started panting and quickly passed out before Hapu could do anything.

Ash opened his eyes again, now in a Hospital bed, he looked around seeing Kiawe sitting on a chair.

''Hey there, you're ok!''

''K-Kiawe...''

''Just stay there okay, that Buzzwole broke you some ribs, you're pretty resistant tho, Hospitals in here are very weird, Hapu was about to kick someone I swear, I don't know how you could tame her.'' Kiawe bursted out laughing before regaining his composure. ''She told us what happened to Alola...We knew the Ultra Beasts would cause destruction but...the whole place?''

''Sorry, I-''

''No, Ash, don't blame yourself, you did all you could, besides the Recon Squad helped us bring almost every person and Pokemon here safely...and just you know, nobody here blames you for what happened to Burnet and Kukui.''

''Burnet and Kukui...T-They are-'' Ash felt the pain on his chest grow again as the heart rate monitor increased dangerously.

''Ash! Doctor! We need a doctor!''

All black again.

He opened his eyes again, all 7 villains were now standing infront of him with all the legendary Pokemon standing behind them.

''Look at him, he's so scared.''

''Poor little scamp.''

''Is time for us to claim what is ours.''

''After all, from where we come you're nothing but a meaningless memory.''

''You failed...''

''Against each one of us...''

''How do you even plan defeating us all together?''

''Wait, why are we suddenly completing each other sentences?''

''SHUT UP FABA! WE'RE TRYING TO INTIMIDATE HIM HERE!''

The villains disappeared and only Ash was left in the dark room.

''Ash, what's going on?'' Bea asked appearing behind of him.

''Bea! You have to get out of here!''

''I'm not going to leave! You-'' Bea stopped flat as her eyes lost color, something sharp pierced though her abdomen and before Ash could react, she was already on the ground, the floor under her covered in blood.

''BEA!'' Ash desperately tried to help her, but she was like a ghost, he wasn't able of touching her, the villains appeared again.

''Don't forget, Ash, we're hunting you down.''

''You have no place no go.''

''Now you will face us.''

''You are gonna hear our voice.''

''So, come and get us, little child, fight us back all you want.''

''You can out run the devil if you try, but you'll never outrun the hands of time.''

''There's no escape from this.''

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

''Ash, Ash! Wake up!'' Back in the real world, Bea was trying to wake up a sweating Ash that was rolling on his bed. ''ASH!''

''BEA!'' He shouted finally waking up.

''Ash, I'm here! What's wrong?

Ash quickly got out of bed and took a hold of Bea's shoulders. ''Bea, are you okay?!''

''Yes, I'm ok, what happened?''

Without saying a word, Ash lifted Bea's pajama shirt just enough to see her abdomen.

''A-A-ASH!''

''Huff, you're fine...you have some nice abs too.''

''WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!'' Bea quickly pulled down her shirt and raised her first in anger.

''S-Sorry, Bea, I just needed to check your belly!''

''...Ash, I'll give you a moment to rephrase that, because it really didn't sound ok.''

''I...sorry, it was...Bea, where are we?''

''We're in the Motostoke Pokemon Center.''

''Good...It was just a bad dream...'' Ash dropped himself on bed and did his best effort to calm down.

''What? Is this the first time you have a nightmare?''

''No, I've had nightmares before, but this felt...way too real.''

''So...'' Bea had a sudden urge to hold her stomach. ''In that dream...I was...''

Ash simply nodded, not wanting to describe any details.

''Well, I guess that explains your sudden movement, but what happened in you dream?''

''Bea, I...I really don't want to talk about it.'' Ash covered himself entirely with his blanket, only for Bea to take it off in order to uncover his face.

''...Hey, it's alright, it was just a bad dream, I'm here and I'm perfectly safe, dreams are only that after all.''

''I hope you're right...Wait, how did you got inside my room?''

''Pikachu went for me, he told to follow him.'' Bea pointed at the rodent who was looking the scene from the end of the bed.

''That's good.'' Ash tried to cover himself but Bea didn't let him.

''Ash, tell me what happened, I'm sure it'll make you feel better.''

After more hesitation, Ash finally gave in. ''Fine...You remember when I told you the stories of my travels? I was always facing bad people, but there was this one person who always kept appearing, a 'main villain' in each region, leaders of evil organizations.''

''Yes, I remember.''

''Giovanni, Archie, Maxie, Cyrus, Ghetsis, Lysandre...they were all there, uh, Faba was too, but he was never such a big deal, the point is that they all looked different, they were saying things I didn't understand, there were moments when my mouth talked on its own, it was as if I was taking the place of someone else, but then suddenly I was in control again, Giovanni and the others...they had legendary Pokemon...and then everything kept turning black, you appeared behind me and-'' Ash cut his own sentence and started to breath heavily.

''Ash...''

''A-And then, you were there on the ground, you had-'' His body began to shiver, that's when Bea really started to worry.

''Ash, calm down.''

''I-I tried to help you!'' Ash finally shouted. ''I really did! But I couldn't!''

''Ash, it was just a dream!''

''What if wasn't a dream?! It could have been some kind of vision! What if you're in danger?!''

''None of that is gonna happen! All those villains are either dead or locked in a prison for the rest of their lives! You told me that yourself!''

''I-I know, but...ARGH! I told you! I told you I've seen weird things! They must come alternate dimension or something! They all said I was dead from where they came from!''

''Ash, listen to me! look at my eyes!'' Bea took a strong hold of Ash's shoulders trying to calm him down. ''Everything is going to be ok.''

''A-Are you sure? Maybe...maybe we should stop traveling together.''

''THE WHAT?!''

''I-I don't want you to get hurt because of me, things like this are always happening to me and you could end up in the crossfire!''

''That already happened, Ash! We escaped from giant robot that fell from the sky in a explosion! If I was scared of whatever challenges may come in the future for going along with you, I would have left back then!''

''I'm just trying to protect you!''

''I'm not going to leave!''

''Don't say that! Please don't do it! I just-''

''SHUT UP!'' Bea yelled out loud making Ash walk back a few steps, for the first time since they met, he looked truly scared, Bea breathed in slowly and then re-analyzed the situation...this was exactly what happened during that Team Rocket event, but Ash and her had now switched places, Bea has been receiving help this whole travel, it was time for her to actually help him back.

''...Sorry, I know you're scared but that's exactly why I am not going to leave you alone...Let's do this, Zacian and Zamazenta can predict the future in their altar. We can ask them if they know anything about this.''

''And how do we do that?''

''We are their chosen ones so we have a direct connection with them, just close your eyes, concentrate and try to call him.''

''It can't be that easy.'' Ash said trying to find an excuse.

''Just try it out.''

''I...I don't want to close my eyes.'' He finally admitted

''Ash-''

''Bea, listen, I know you probably think I'm acting like a little kid, but you weren't there, you didn't see it, everytime it turned black, something even worse that the last time appeared, how do I know that this is still not a dream? What if I when I open my eyes again you are...''

''Ash listen...you're right, I didn't see what you saw, if after all you've been through, that scared you, then it must have been something really bad, but you can't let that bad dream win...I know, Give me your hands.''

''What?''

''I'll be holding your hands, that way whatever happens you'll know I'm here, right by your side, no matter what.''

Still with a doubtful look, Ash took both of her hands. ''Thanks, Bea.''

''No problem...Well, go ahead, give him a call.''

Ash breathed slowly and closed his eyes, the darkness causing him to get nervous, Bea could felt he was shivering slightly so she held his hands tighter, just enough to calm him down. 'She's here and she's safe...Zamazenta, can you hear me?'

'...why, yes.'

''ARGH!'' Ash yelled out surprised.

''What happened?'' Bea asked.

''Uh, well, he answered.''

''See? You have to listen to me more often.''

''I'll surely do it, let's try that again.'' Ash closed his one more time. 'Zamazenta?'

'Me and my friends get no respect, what does Bolty do that we ne- oh, sorry, I was waiting for you to call again, didn't mean to scare you.'

'I...wow, I didn't expect you to respond so quickly.'

'Well, you're lucky, I just happened to wake up from sleeping to drink at the lake.'

'You guys sleep?'

'Well, we don't physically need to sleep but it's a good feeling. Can I help you with something?'

'Bea said Zacian and you can see the future in your altar, is that right?'

'Yup! We can also watch over you too and watch human TV, Miss Kobayashi's Dragon-Type maid is one of my favorites.'

'Z-Zamazenta, I need you to concentrate.'

'...Sorry, what happened?'

'Well, I...I had a weird dream, the villains that I had faced in the past were all working together, each one of them had Legendary Pokemon under they power and...sigh, and it felt way too real, do you know anything about that?''

'No, I don't...if something as big as that were to happen, I would have definitely told you already.'

'I see...so I'm worrying about nothing?'

'Seems like it...sorry, I guess it's normal to have PTSD after that kind of events, I know a Legendary Pokemon that suffers from that too, you know?'

'I don't have PTSD, I mean...this is the first time something like this has happened to me.'

'Then I suggest to rest, it's not easy to carry the fate of the world in your hands, I'll inform you if anything troublesome were to come by, remember there is trouble to come, but don't be scared of the dark, Ash, after all, why would a star ever be afraid of the dark?'

'Thanks, Zamazenta.' Ash then heard a static meaning that the call was over.

'How curious...' Zamazenta thought after ending the call. ''Zacian, pack your things, we're going to the hall of origins.''

''What? Now?'' A sleepy Zacian complained.

''YES! NOW!'' The younger, yet obviously more responsible brother shouted fully waking her up.

Ash sighed after ending the call. ''He says that he knows nothing about it and that I shouldn't worry.'' He said to Bea, still holding her hands.

''Then why are you still so scared?'' Bea asked, still sensing Ash was shivering.

''Because that image of you in the ground is still nailed in my brain...If you end up hurt because of me, I would never forgive myself.''

Bea flinched a little, that was the exact thing she said to herself some days ago, letting his hands go, he got closer to Ash and caught him in a hug, which Ash almost instantly reciprocated. ''I wouldn't forgive myself either if something happened to you.''

''Thanks...But I think I'm still worried.''

''...Let's do this, look at that mirror over there.'' Bea pointed at their reflection. ''What do you see?''

''I see us.'' Ash simply answered.

''Good, you said you couldn't quit that picture from your mind, try to replace it with this one, remember me like this, just the of us.'' Ash's worried face finally showed a smile, said smile quickly turned into a giggle which didn't exactly amuse Bea.

''Are you laughing at me, Ash Ketchum?''

''No, well, it's kinda funny, most of the time you're the 'I'm gonna kick yours ass' Bea, but you also have a very soft side.''

''Well, which side do you prefer?''

''I think both are great in their own way, that just makes you...you.''

Now it was Bea's turn to laugh a bit. ''That was so corny, but I don't mind, just as long as we have each other, even if all those guys returned somehow, I know we'd find a way, you said it yourself...I don't care if the things get rough...''

''Cause I'm sure you and I can make it through.'' Ash completed the sentence.

''Great, do you feel better now?''

''A lot, thanks Bea.''

''It's alright, now get some sleep, you still owe me a date.'' Bea broke the hug and took a hold of Ash's cheeks, lowering his head to give him a soft kiss on his forehead. ''Good night.''

''I...''

After walking outside of Ash's room and closing the door, Bea snapped back to reality. 'WHY THE HELL DID I DO THAT?!' It seems like someone got carried away by the moment.

After a moment of thinking, Bea simply sighed and went back to his room, while on his bed, Ash was still trying to process this long night.

''That was...unexpected, well, let's try to get some sleep, Pikachu.''

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

''...Guess not.'' Ash got up and from bed and walked to the door, expecting to see Bea again.

''Something wrong, Bea-''

''ASH! I need your help!''

''Oh, hey Victor!'' Ash greeted the teen who didn't look exactly calm

''You have to help me!'' He yelled again.

''Uh? With what?''

''I'm gonna have a battle today.'' Victor started to explain.

''Ok, but why do you need my help?'' Ash asked again not getting the point.

''Because you're a champion!'' He shouted again. 'This is the dude that Gloria idolizes?' Victor thought.

''I...I mean why not ask your sister? She's a battler too.''

''She told me she was busy...Ash, please, you're my only chance to make it out of this alive.''

''Alright, Vic, you-''

''Did you just call me Vic?!'' He interrupted shouting.

''Well, everyone calls you Vic.''

''No! Only Gloria and my friends call me Vic!''

''We aren't friends?'' Ash asked slightly offended.

''This literally our first direct conversation since we met!''

''It is? ...wow.''

''ARGH! pfft, Sorry, sorry, I'm just really stressed.''

''OK, Victor, explain me what's going on, slowly.''

''You remember Marnie, right?''

''Yes.''

''I went with her and tried to confess, but then her brother, Piers, a Gym leader, appeared and...things happened, I'll have to fight him today, but as I said I'm not a battler, what should I do?''

''Well, someone once said anyone can battle.''

''This is Piers we're talking about! He's the second strongest Gym Leader in Galar! Second!''

''Well, I'll help you train then, which Pokemon will you use for the battle?''

''I'm gonna use Sirfecth'd, not only he's my strongest but Piers specializes in Dark-Types so he'll give me the advantage.''

''Alright, let me change myself, I'll meet you in the battlefield that's in the back of the center, alright?''

''Thanks, I'll be waiting.''

Just like they said, Ash and Victor met in the battlefield, accompanied by Dewott and Sirfetch'd respectively.

''Here, take this, Sirfecth'd'' Victor wrapped a black belt around the waist of his Pokemon. ''It's an expert belt, it will boost the power of any super effective hit we land, so let's try to focus on that.''

''Fetch'd!'' The duck nodded.

''Ready, Dewott?'' Ash asked.

''Dew!'' The otter took both his scalchops and stood in battle position.

''Well, Victor, do the first move.''

''Sirfetch'd, Leaf Blade!'' The leek sword was surrounded by green energy as the duck jumped towards Dewott.

''Counter it with Air Slash!'' Dewott raised one hand, blocking the Leaf Blade and slashing Sirfecth'd with the other.

''Leaf blade again!''

''Jump and Razor Shell!'' Dewott bounced in the air dodging the move and falling down with two slashes.

''Leaf Blade!''

''Dodge with Aqua Jet!''

''Leaf Blade!''

''Hmm, Block the hit and then Revenge!'' With and Scalchop, Dewott blocked the slash and landed a powerful punch with his free hand. ''Uh, Victor-''

''Leaf Blade!'' Sirfecth'd tried to attack again, but due to being too tired, Dewott simply moved to the left avoiding it effortlessly.

''This is not working!'' Victor complained.

''Victor, calm down.''

''CALM DOWN?! I said FUCK OFF on the face of the brother of the girl I like! I have all the right to freak out!''

''Victor, listen, you can just use the same attack over and over again.''

''It's the super effective move! That's the only move I should use!''

''No, it's not! Victor, this is not a game and I'm not some robot AI challenging you, you need to look for every angle, you can't just use one move and expect it to work every time.''

''Then what do you suggest?!''

''Simply think about an alternative, let me show you, try to block this...Dewott, Aqua Jet!''

''Detect!''

''Curve Shot!''

Before hitting Sirfecth'd shield, Dewott deviated himself, flying around the Fighting-Type and hitting him on the back.

''The what?!''

''Aqua Jet again!''

''Detect! And keep you eyes open for the curve shot!''

''Hydro Spear!'' Dewott took both his scalchop infront of him while still dong the Aqua Jet, the move had enough force to hit directly and knock Sirfetch'd to the wall despite him blocking it with the shield.

''H-How do you even do that?!'' Victor asked. 'Ok, maybe, Gloria isn't so wrong about him.''

''It just comes up naturally, now try to attack us.''

''Fine, Leaf Blade!''

''Take the hit!'' Dewott once again blocked the move with his Scalchop. ''Now hold the leek and use Revenge!'' Doing as told, Dewott punched Sirfecth'd still holding the leek, sending the back only with his shield.

''Sirfe?!''

''Dewott!''

''Now attack him with the leek!'' Dewott swinged Sirfecth'd leek around, hitting the duck several times.

''This doesn't make any sense!'' Victor ranted.

''What fun is there in making sense?'' Ash asked.

''Argh, I can't do this!'' Victor kneeled defeated on the ground while Sirfetch'd sat next to him exhausted and Dewott gave him his sword back.

''Hmm, I think I know something that will help you, come with me.''

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

''Uh, Ash is in the door.'' Cinderace said inside Bea's room putting her hairband on her head.

''I don't want to open it.'' She said covering herself under the sheets.

''Why not?''

''Because I...I kissed him.''

''You did?!''

''It was just in the forehead but still, I'm too embarrassed to look him right now.''

''Bea, I'm so proud of you!''

''Shuuut up.''

''Well, he's still knocking, it looks like it's something important.''

''Argh, fine, you go open it and pretend I'm sleep.''

''Pfft, coward.'' Cinderace laughed before going to open the door.

''Hey Cinderace, is Bea awake?'' Ash asked, before thinking a little and letting a sigh, Cinderace shook her head. ''I see, still, this is kind of an emergency, can I have Bea's TR case for a moment?''

''Cin!'' Cinderace quickly ran to Bea's backpack and brought the case to Ash.

''Thanks, I'm sure I saw it over here...'' Ash said as he started to read the TR's names. ''Bingo bango, Vic, teach this to your Sirftech'd.'' Ash showed him a silver TR.

''Steel Wing?'' Victor asked. ''Why?''

''You'll find out, for now have to trust me.''

''Are we seriously playing the mysterious master trope?'' Victor asked unsure.

''Sorry, it's ben a while since I've done a teacher role.''

''Well, thanks anyway, I guess I don't have much of a choice here.''

''Good luck, Victor.''

''Thanks...I'm gonna need it.''

Outside of Motostoke's Hotel, 8:30 PM.

''Piers, this is not necessary.'' Marnie tried to talk some sense into her brother.

''Yes, it is!'' Piers shouted. ''You think I'm just gonna let you go with him?''

''You don't even know him!''

''No, but I know you! And I know you deserve something better!''

''When did this turn into a college drama?'' Roxie asked.

''I kinda like it.'' One of the grunts said. ''Shouldn't Victor be here already?''

''He probably got too scared.'' Piers said hearing the question.

''No, I didn't!'' Victor called with Gloria and Ash accompaying him, Bea had a 'do not disturb' sign in here door, and we all know is the best to not get her angry. Victor walked towards the brother as Ash and Gloria stood next to the grunts and Roxie. ''Well, here I am.''

''Alright Lad, this is my deal, when I win you'll never get close to Marnie ever again.''

''And what if I win?'' Victor asked.

''As if that's ever going to happen.'' Piers rolled his eyes.

''What if I win?'' Victor continued to ask.

''If you win...I'll leave you be.'' Piers walked to the battlefield, leaving Marnie alone with Victor.

''Vic, I'm really sorry about all of this.'' Marnie said.

''Don't worry Marnie, I'm sure it'll come out fine, you know? last night I had a dream with Luvdiscs, I hope that I'm not wrong about this.''

''This will be simple 1v1 battle.'' One of the grunts said acting as the referee. ''Trainers, release your Pokemon!''

''Face the proud, high roar of my Obstagoon!'' Piers shouted as the badger stood in the battlefield.

''Now is up to you, Sirfecth'd.''

''Don't worry, Lad, we'll end this quickly.'' Piers tossed Obstagoon an orange orb, the badger then cracked the orb with his claws burning himself.

'Guts...' Victor thought. ''Seems like we're not the only ones who'll use items.''

''If both trainers are ready then the battle begins now!''

''FIRST IMPRESSION!'' Sirfetch'd jumped forward with his shield infront of him, trying to bash Obstagoon directly.

''Heh, Obstruct!'' Obstagoon laughed, crossing his arms and blocking the hit, letting a loud shout disorienting Sirfetch'd

''Get up and-'' Victor tried to order but Piers was faster.

''Knock off!'' Obstagoon jumped forward and punched Sirfetch'd, The expert belt then flew out of Sirfetch'd waist and disintegrated in the air.

''Oh no...'' Victor trailed off. ''Meteor Assault!'' Sirfetch'd charged the move as he was surrounded by an orange energy.

''Facade!'' Obstagoon jumped forward and tackled Sirfetch'd before he could make his move.

''Meteor Assault!''

''Facade!''

The scene repeated.

''This is bad.'' Gloria said. ''Victor doesn't stand a chance.''

''I'm sure he can do it." Ash said. "He just need to stop pushing himself that hard.''

''Meteor Assault!''

''Facade!''

Negated once again.

'This won't work.' Victor thought for himself. 'Meteor Assault is the only super effective move we have, but he keeps interrupting Sirfecth'd while he's charging it...we could wait until he's tired but his moves do too much damage, I need to...Search for another angle.'' Victor kept thinking until he got an idea. ''Steel Wing!''

Sirfecth'd sword glowed with a metallic light and he slashed Obstagoon with it and although the move barely did damage, a blue aura radiated on Sirftech'd.

''Defense boost...'' Victor gazed surprised and then looked at Ash who simply smiled. ''That's it! Keep using Steel Wing!''

Sirfecth'd slashed Obstagoon various times, until he received the defense boost six times.

''Obstagoon, Close combat!'' The badger furiously Ora-Ora'd the duck but the latter resisted every hit without even needing his shield.

''This is ridiculous! We aren't doing any damage!'' Piers complained as Obstagoon was being damaged by the self-inflicted burn.

''Great! With all those Steel Wings Vic maximized Sirfetch'd defense!'' Goria shouted. ''Go, Vic, GO!''

''Ah, sure! Now you're rooting for me!'' Victor complained. ''He's too tired to interrupt the charge, Meteor Assault!''

Finally fully charging the move, the knight charged himself against Obstagoon, surrounded by an orange streak of light. ''SIIIIII-IIIIIRFEEEETCH'D!''

EXPLOSION

After the dust cleared, both Pokemon were panting tired but still standing.

''Shield toss!'' Sirfetch'd tossed his shield to the air and then used his sword like a baseball bat to send it flying towards Obstagoon, the latter barely move to the left to avoid it.

''You missed!'' Piers laughed.

''I did?'' Victor asked with a smile.

''Facade!'' Obstagoon tried to tackle Sirfetch'd, but before he reached him, Sirfetch'd shield came flying back and hit Obstagoon in the back, causing to fall on the ground.

''Boomerang projectile, oldest trick in the book.'' Victor said.

''Go to hell.'' Sirfetch'd said under his breath to the Obstagoon as he catched his shield, and Obstagoon received one last burn from the flame orb, falling down defeated.

''O-O-Obstagoon is unable to battle! Sirfetch'd is the winn-''

''NO! It's not!'' Piers interrupted and ran towards Victor, Sirfetch'd quickly stood infront of his trainer to protect him if necessary. ''You cheated somehow! Didn't you?!''

''I didn't cheat!'' Victor defended himself.

''That's enough, Piers!'' Marnie stood between them. ''A deal is a deal, Victor won fair and square!''

''No, he didn't! I'm gonna-'' Before Piers could say something else, all the grunts stood around Victor.

''What are you guys doing?!'' Piers asked

''You have been weighed.'' One of the grunts started.

''You have been measured.'' Another grunt continued.

''And you have absolutely...'' Marnie said.

''Been found wanting.'' Roxie ended.

''You guys...'' Piers stuttered.

''Piers, this kid just defeated you.'' One of the grunts talked again.

''We've seen him many times with Marnie and he's a good guy.''

''He accepted your challenge and won despite being an inexperienced battler.''

''All for his love.''

''If you are still against him even after all that, then you're the one who's wrong.''

''...Marnie, is this really what you want?'' Piers asked to his sister

''Yes...he is what I want.'' Marnie said interlocking fingers with Victor.

''Vic...no man in the world will ever be good enough for Marnie...'' Piers then looked back at his defeated Obstagoon. ''But if these guys are willing to follow you, then you are pretty close, take care of her.''

''I will.'' Victor offered Piers a handshake and the latter finally accepted.

''ALRIGHT!'' Gloria celebrated. ''I want one of the kids to be called Gloria Jr.''

''I think Ivy is a good name too.'' Roxie said.

''You two.'' Victor laughed. ''Ash, thanks a lot.''

''No, Victor, you did this yourself.'' Ash said.

''Please...call me, Vic.''

''Vic, give her the gift, give her the gift!'' Gloria said.

''Right...uh, the gift...I don't have it with me.''

''What?! What do you mean?!'' The scottish shouted out loud.

''After a lot of thinking I thought it was better that way...besides that thing wasn't exactly cheap so I decided to ask for a refund.''

''But we spent so much time choosing it!''

''I don't need any gift.'' Marnie said. ''Having you with me is more than enough.''

''What was the gift, anyway?'' Roxie asked.

''Well, it was-''

Motostoke Pokemon Center, 10 AM.

''Bea, wake up!'' Gloria shouted kicking the door of Bea's room.

''Gloria?'' A sleepy Bea asked. ''What do you want? It's like 6 AM.''

''What do you mean? It's 10 AM!'' Gloria ranted ''You missed Vic's battle and today's your date with Ash!''

''10 AM! ...MY DATE!'' Bea shouted getting up from bed.

''Yes, your date.''

''Why did I oversleep?! I never oversleep! Where the hell is Cinderace?!''

''She's outside playing soccer with some kids.'' Gloria pointed at the window where Cinderace was doing exactly what she said.

''Huff, alright, Gloria, what are we gonna do?''

''First off, put this on.'' Gloria pulled from a bag a short orange-white dress.

''...Gloria, I'm not going to use a dress.''

''Why not?!''

''Skirts...aren't really my thing, I just don't like them, my clothes are perfectly fine.''

''Really? ...Let me see your clothes.''

Bea searched on her backpack and pulled out all her clothes on the bed, three shirts, orange, white and black, and the shorts, orange, white and black.

''What?'' Bea asked seeing how Gloria was giving her the 'are you serious?' look.

''All you have is 3 shorts and 3 shirts?''

''...Yes.''

''What kind of girl goes to a date in shorts?!''

''Why do you even think Ash likes skirts so much?''

''Well, I asked him who has been his favorite traveling companion and it just happened to be the girl with the shortest skirt in existence, seriously that thing is like 1 Inch long.''

''...May I know the name of that girl?''

''No time! Get in the dress!''

''Ugh, fine!''

-Sailor Moon Transformation Sequence-

''Gloria, I look ridiculous!''

''You look nice, I'm sure Ash will like it.''

''I swear this is-ARGH! Get out of my room! I'll do this my way!'' Bea walked to the door and opened it, there she found Ash who was just about ot knock the door. ''A-Ash! uhm, this is...how do I look?''

''You look really good!'' Ash said quickly causing both of them to blush while Gloria laughed from behind. ''...I..uh...sorry Bea, I didn't know we had to bring formal clothes, I...I'll go buy something, wait right here.''

''Ash, no, it's fine.'' Bea stopped him from leaving. ''You don't need to buy any clothes, let's just seize the day together, alright?''

''Alright then.''

Ash and Bea left the room as Gloria watched them from behind.

''They look so cute together.'' Gloria said. ''...I hope this doesn't evolve into a voyeurism fetish or something.''

Ash and Bea left all their Pokemon in the Pokemon Center Day-care and made their way through the streets of Motostoke, Gloria suggested to watch from behind in case she needed help, but insisted on doing this part on her own.

''So where are we going?'' Bea asked. ''Knowing you it will be to an all-you-can-eat or something.'' Despite the little joke, Bea received no response, Ash was gazing at the nothingness and Bea noticed that. ''Ash?'' She called again, putting a hand on his shoulder.

''Uh, what?''

''You're still thinking about that dream, aren't you?''

''Maybe a little.''

''...Ash, if you don't feel good enough to do this then-''

''No, Bea, I want to do this, in fact, I think this date is just what I need to get that off my mind, it's been a while since it was just the two us after all.''

''You're right, where are we going first then?''

''Since you say I never investigate about the places where I'm going I searched for some information about Motostoke, I know exactly where to go.''

''Really? Well, let's see what you have for me.''

''I'm gonna fall! Ash, I'm gonna fall!'' Bea shouted desperately.

''Bea, calm down, I got you.''

''How can you expect me to be calm in this kind of situation?!''

''Alright, I'm gonna let you go now then.''

''Don't you dare!''

''Bea, you have to do it on your own.''

''I'M GONNA DIE!''

''Bea, we're in the toddler section of the skate park, nothing's going to happen.'' Just like Ash said, they were in the skate park trying out some roller blading, Bea wasn't doing that well.

''P-Promise me you're gonna catch me if I fall!''

''Bea...''

''Promise it!''

''OK, I promise, I'll let you go now, ok?''

''Fine, fine!''

Ash pushed Bea slightly as she tried to balance herself.

''Hey, I think I've got this. -sweep- NO, I DON'T! NO, I DON'T!'' Bea was about to fall back and Ash got closer just in time to catch her from behind. ''Thanks...Where did you even learn to do this?''

''My friend Korrina taught me, you know? You and her and really alike, I'm sure you two would get along, maybe we'll meet her in our travel.''

''Alright, let me do it again.'' Bea successfully skated 30 centimeters before falling back and getting caught by Ash again.

''Got you.''

''Ash, this a lost cause.''

''There's no such thing as a lost cause, let me do something.'' Ash wrapped his arms around Bea's torso, pressing his chest against her back.

''W-W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!'' Bea blushed by the sudden contact.

''Uh? Well, this is how Korrina taught me.''

''Just to clarify, your friend Korrina is a girl, right?''

''...Yes, I did say 'her' a couple times.''

''Why am I not surprised?''

''Alright, try to skate now and I'll be your support.''

''Promise you won't let me go unless I tell you.'' She'd be lying if she said she didn't like the feeling.

''I won't, start moving.'' Bea started to skate ad with Ash acting as her support she improved greatly, after a few minutes Bea sped up a little.

''Hey, this is quite good, I think you can let me go now.''

''I already did.'' Ash called from the other side of the park.

''YOU WHAT?!''

''See, I told you you could do it!''

''ASH! Y-YOU SAID YOU WOULDN'T LET ME GO!''

''But you were doing so great!''

''YOU LIAR!''

''Watch out for that kid?!''

''Kid?'' Bea then noticed she was about to run over a little boy who was sitting in the middle of the park, she quickly stopped as she could, just a few centimeters from the kid. ''Ah, sorry, sorry, are you okay?'' The toddler simply nodded and backed away scared.

''You okay, Bea?'' He asked standing next to her.

''Uh, yes...'' Bea then quickly punched Ash on his left arm. ''THAT'S FOR LETTING ME GO WITHOUT ME TELLING YOU!''

''Sorry, sorry.''

''Well, that was nice, now what?'' Bea asked as they walked outside of the park.

''You want go already?'' Ash asked.

''Sorry, one traumatized kid is my daily limit.''

''Fine, We'll have a visit at the cafe, this time we'll be inside because I don't want any Zigzagoons stealing your backpack.''

''Very funny.''

Ash and Bea made their way to the cafe, both of them talking about their first date and how everything turned around for them that day.

''Hello, The name is Leah.'' One of the employees of the cafe talked to them. ''What would you like?'' Bea and Ash looked the display case and Ash noticed that Bea's eyes were fixed onto something.

''Sweet bread buns?'' Ash asked looking at Bea's illuminated face.

''Sweet bread buns.'' She affirmed the idea.

''We want Sweet bread buns.'' They both said pointing at the food through the glass.

''I'll take them to you, please choose a table.''

''So you like sweet bread buns?'' Ash asked as they took a table.

''I really loved them as a kid, it's been a long while since I've eaten some.''

''Hey there, excuse me, Ash.'' Rotom Phone flew from his pocket and called him floating around.

''What's wrong, Rotom?'' He asked.

''You received a message with a few photos." Room answered. "Would you like to see them?''

''Sure, let me see.''

''Here it goes.'' Rotom dropped himself on Ash's hand, loading the message.

''Hey, it's from Nessa.'' Ash said.

-Hey there, Ash! I asked Chairman Rose for your number! Add me as a friend so we can talk later! Anyway, I wanted to send you the pictures of yesterday's session, hope you like them as much as I do, 'winky face' ...sorry I don't know how to use emojis.-

''What are those?'' Bea asked.

''Some pictures I took with Nessa yesterday.'' Ash explained showing Bea the picture where Ash and Nessa were having a 'Date in the cafe'.

''...Can I take a look at them?''

Ash handed over the phone and Bea began to see the photos, then she stopped, with an angry face, Bea showed him the picture where Nessa was sitting on his lap.

''What?'' Ash asked.

''That!''

''What happens with 'that'?''

''How can you be so confortable around her?!''

''Yeah, I wanted to talk with you about a similar topic, why do you despise Nessa so much?''

''You're only asking that because you haven't seen her in the TV! She's so bratty and narcissist! I'm just worried about you.''

''Worried about what?''

''Worried that she'll only take advantage of you and then when she gets bored she'll leave you like nothing.''

''I don't think something like that would happen.''

''How can you be so sure?''

''Nessa is...really sweet, she may have a facet when she's in TV, but when you get to know her...well, maybe you could give her a chance too.''

''Ash, are you in love with her?''

''What?'' Ash was surprised by the direct question. ''No, I mean...it's complicated.''

''Complicated...you're considering her as your...you know...''

''I...yes, I guess I am.''

''...Ash, I-''

''Nobody move!'' Two thug-looking dudes kicked the door of the cafe along a Magmortar and a Electrivire. ''This is a robbery!''

''Well, dude, if you don't like the prices you can just go to another cafe.'' One of waiters said to him and then Magmortar pointed at him with one of his cannons. ''Oh, that kind of robbery.''

''A robbery...yeah, why not?'' Bea sighed. 'I would have preferred to be swallowed by the earth but this works too.''

''Alright, people, everyone to the corner!''

''What are you even doing here?'' Leah asked. ''This is a cafe, there's not that much to steal to begin with.''

''Don't be stupid, we'll take you as hostages and the police will have to give us money.''

''Dude, I've seen at least 30 movies with a plot like that and it never works.'' One of the customers complained, until Magmortar pointed at him with a cannon. ''Sorry! Sorry! I mean what a great plan!''

''You!'' One of the robbers pointed at Ash. ''You're the champion kid, aren't you?'' The Man asked getting closer. ''I'm sure they'll pay a lot of money just for you alone.''

''Get away from him!'' Bea quickly stood infront of Ash and launched a quick blow, breaking the thief's hand.

''She broke my god damned hand!''

''HA! Pummeled by a lil girl!'' The other burglar mocked his partner. ''Well, it's alright, Magmortar!'' He called and the Pokemon got closer to Bea, raising one of his cannons, pointing at her. ''Maybe if we take care of one of the hostages the police will see we're serious.''

''Wait! Don't hurt her!'' Ash pleaded.

''She's your friend, uh? Fine, if you give us all your Pokemon, we'll let her go.''

''I-I don't have my Pokemon with me.''

''What a shame...'' The man said snapping his fingers as Magmortar charged a Fire Blast.

''BEA!''

A explosion occured on the place, but once the dust subsided, a giant red shield was infront of Bea. She was completely safe and Ash's hands were blazing with a red light.

''A-Ash? You did this...?'' Bea asked recovering her breath.

''...I think.'' -When the times comes, you'll be able to understand what this blessing truly means- Zamazenta's voice echoed on his head. Ash then raised his hand, the shield bashed both thieves and their Pokemon, breaking through one of the walls of the cafe, it then kept going to the other side of the street where it crashed them against a wall, causing their Pokemon to faint.

''Stop! We give up! Don't hurt us!'' One of the grunts pleaded on the ground.

''Don't hurt you? ...You were going to...'' Ash raised his hand again, the shield took flight and was about to drop itself on top of the burglars.

''Ash, stop! It's over!'' Bea stood infront of Ash, looking him in the eyes, Ash snapped back to reality and the shield disappeared in the air.

''I-I-'' Seeing the injured men on the ground, Ash ran away as fast as he could.

''Ash, wait!'' Bea ran right behind him and quickly caught up to him.

''Bea, I...I hurt those people, right?''

''You...yes, you did, but listen, they were going to attack us, they threatened our lives, you were on the right to do that, you only protected me and the rest of the people in the cafe, there's nothing wrong with that.''

''No, no, no, this is- this is exactly what I was fearing! You almost got hurt because of me!''

''But I didn't! You just saved me! And it wasn't your fault!''

''No! They attacked you because you were my friend and I'm sure there are lots of people who'd do the same!''

''I DON'T CARE! I don't care if the things get rough, cause I'm sure that you and I can make it through...I don't care if the things get rough, cause I'm sure that you and I can make it through! YOU AND I!''

''But-''

''I'm not going to leave you alone! Whatever happens I'll be right there! We are the sword and shield heroes! WE! You are always the chosen ONE but not anymore, I'm here too! You don't have to do this alone! WE will have each other's backs! WE will protect each other! We will save the world TOGETHER! YOU AND I!''

''You and I...Sorry, Bea, I've been acting like an idiot.''

Bea finally sighed relieved. "At least you realized it, but well, that's what we're partners for...NOW COME GIVE ME A HUG!'' Bea shouted with open arms.

''A hug?'' Ash asked.

''Uh, yes, I...I kinda want one, is that okay?''

''Of course it is.'' Ash opened his arms as well and they both shared a hug.

"If anything troubles you...you can talk with me about it, I'll do all I can to help you."

"Thanks, Bea I promise I'll do the same."

''So this is what Zamazenta meant.'' Ash tried to create a small shield on his hand but the energy kept vanishing away. ''This is kinda weird.''

''I wonder if I can do something similar, Having an energy sword out of nowhere does sounds pretty cool.''

''This is aura...at least if feel like it is.''

''Aura?''

''Right, those we part of the stories I didn't tell you.''

''And why didn't you?''

''It gives off some bad memories.''

''Like what?''

''You know what they say...you can't save everyone.''

''I...sorry.''

''No, it's fine.''

''Still, seems like we can't have a normal cafe date, can we?''

''Honestly...I think it was thanks to that Zigzagoon that we actually got to know each other.''

''Yeah, we also got a nice moment thanks to that robbery.''

''I guess you're right.''

''Bea!''

''Uh, Cinderace?'' Bea looked back spotting her ace.

''Oh god, I'm so glad you're okay.''

''Wait, how did you know we were here?''

''Maybe I was following you...just maybe.''

''Sigh.''

''I was going to jump into the robbery but then than explosion happened and I lost track of you.''

''Well, thanks for worrying I guess.''

''So...did you two...?'' Cinderace made some interesting hand signs.

''SHUT UP!''

"I didn't say anything."

"CIIINDERAAAACE!"

Meanwhile on her room of the hotel, Nessa was playing Dominoes with her Drednaw...and she was losing.

''Pass...'' Nessa said with 6 dominoes on her hand as Drednaw put another one on the floor. ''Pass...'' And another one. ''Pass...''

''Dred!'' The turtle cheered putting the last tile and winning the game.

''Argh! How can you be so good at this?!''

''Naw!''

''Sigh...''

Nessa's phone then vibrated as she got a notification of her social media. ''Hey, Vincent already published the photos of yesterday's session.'' She started to scroll until she found the photo where she was sitting on Ash's lap. ''I really like this one.'' Nessa's contemplation was once again interrupted by an incoming video call. ''Unknown number...who could it be?'' Nessa received the call and...

''WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING WITH MY SON?!'' A woman shouted from the other side of the call.

''I...'' Nessa looked at the woman who was yelling at her for a moment until she finally recognized her. ''Miss Delia?'' She gives interviews when Ash isn't home.

''That's Miss Ketchum for you! And don't think that's a title you're ever gonna get!''

'Miss Nessa Ketchum...' The Gym Leader's mind wandered off for a second.

''I'M TALKING TO YOU!''

''I...sorry, Miss Ketchum, but what are you talking about?''

''I'm talking about those photos where you are so clingy to him!''

''...Miss Ketchum, those photos were published like 30 seconds ago, how did you get my number so fast?''

''THAT'S NONE OF YOUR CONCERN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH MY SON?!''

''Y-Your son and I are just good friends.''

''You might but numbers don't lie! I won't let some random woman I don't know to take away his innocence!'' Delia's face turned into horror for a second. ''Unless...you already took it, didn't you?''

''Innocence...WHA-! N-NO! T-THERE'S NO WAY I WOULD DO THAT!'' Nessa's face turned bright red as Delia calmed herself a bit.

''Still, that doesn't give you the right to provoke him!''

''Provoke him?''

''He is still at that weird hormones age! Do you want him to just throw himself over you?!''

''You are making it sound as if that was a bad thing.''

''That's it! Delia's calling the police!''

''Miss Ketchum, it was just a little joke, that's not necessary, I can assure you I mean no harm to your son."

''Do you think I'll let my son alone with some woman twice his age?!''

''Twice?! I'm barely 5 years older than him!''

''I just...it's just that they grow up so fast!'' Delia then started to shed tears.

''Miss ketchum...''

''I'm sure Ash likes you a lot too!''

"Miss Ketchum..."

"He'll always be my little boy!"

"M-Miss Ketchum."

''Just promise me you'll take care of him!'' Delia then cut the call and Nessa was left confused to say at least.

''Do you have any idea of what just happened?'' Nessa asked to his Drednaw who simply shook his head confused as well.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

''Yes?''

''Miss Nessa." A hotel staff member called from the door. "Mr. Kabu asked me to tell the Gym Leaders that the reunion will start in 30 minutes.''

''Alright thanks!'' Nessa started to walk to the door not without glaring at Drednaw one last time. ''I'll beat you when I get back.''

Back to Ash and Bea, they reunited with Gloria and Victor since Ash said he had an announcement to make.

''I'll be going to Sinnoh for a few days." Ash began to explain. "My friend, May, will be participating in the world contest finals there in a few days, it's been a while since last time we were together and I really want to see her again, will you come along?''

''Sure!" Bea was the first to agree. "I've never been outside of Galar, it sounds like a great opportunity.''

''Well, as good as it sounds..." Victor talked second. "Gloria and I just can't go to Sinnoh, I've been talking with Marnie and we'll be traveling with Roxie and her from now on.''

''Well, it's alright." Ash said. "We'll meet again, guys.''

''Thank you for letting us traveling with you.'' Victor said as he gave Ash and Bea a handshake each and he walked away, Gloria however stood still on her place. ''Gloria?'' He asked looking back at his sister.

''I...I'm staying with Ash.'' She said with difficulty.

''What? Really?" Victor asked surprised.

''W-Well, you said it yourself, you only traveled with me because you thought I wouldn't be able of taking care of myself, now you can travel with your girl and everyone will be happy.''

''You...I know I said that, but I- ...Fine, Ash, please take care of her, you too Bea.'' Both Ash and Bea simply nodded looking at Gloria with worried looks.

''Take care, sis.'' He said simply walking away.

''...bye.''

''Gloria, are you ok? Ash asked.

''I...I want to go with you, but...I don't wanna leave Victor, what should I do?"

"You're asking me?"

''D-Do you want me to go with you?''

Ash ignored he question while raising one of his own. ''What do you want to do?''

''I'll do whatever you tell me! If you want me to go with you I'll go! If you want me to stay here I'll stay!''

''Gloria, what do you want to do?'' Ash insisted.

''I want to be like you! That's all I ever wanted since I started my journey!"

''I see...but Victor is the one that has been with you since you started your journey, right?

''I...''

What if I told you I couldn't go along? Would you just go with Ash and leave me behind?

''No, no, I wouldn't..." Gloria answered the question. "Ash, you're right, sorry, but I'm staying here with Victor.''

''Great!" Ash said. "Gloria, I'll tell you this...You don't have to be like me, I appreciate a lot how you feel but I think you should do your own thing, you can be someone even better than me, so I want you to win the two badges you have left...Then I'll see you at the league and we'll have the best battle you can imagine.''

''...I'll see you at the league.'' Gloria paused for a gulp of swallowed tears and then wrapped Ash in a hug. ''Thank you for everything.''

''Thanks you too, Bea.'' Gloria hugged Bea as well and then whispered on her ear. ''And good luck with him.''

"I'll do my best." Bea said.

''Vic! Wait for me!'' Gloria shouted following her brother. ''Oh! I almost forgot!'' She stopped her run and quickly searched for something on her backpack. ''Bea, catch this!'' Gloria tossed something to the air, Bea caught it and then she started blushing once she noticed it was plushie of Ash on his current clothes.

''Wha-''

''Since you said mine looked cute I thought I should buy you one, take care of him!''

''I...thanks.'' Bea simply said.

''BYYYE!''

"Take care!"

''See ya, Gloria!''

"I guess it's kinda cute." Ash said looking at the plushie as Bea hid it behind her.

''Well...Wanna go back to the cafe?'' Bea suggested.

''You think they're still open after that?''

''Sure, they're a Shwarma sub-company after all.''

''Sounds good.''

''Then let's go-''

''LITLEO!'' The lion cub appeared from nowhere and jumped onto Ash's arms.

''Hey, Ash!'' Flannery called them as Bea sighed. ''I was just looking for you, guys.''

''What do you need?'' Bea asked mildly annoyed. ''I don't wanna sound rude but we're in the middle of something."

''Well, I was wondering if you would like to go with me to Sinnoh.'' Flannery asked.

''You're going too?'' Bea asked.

''Of course! I want to see May wreck that Lisia girl! Uncle Kabu gave me 3 tickets to Sinnoh, I told him you were friend of May too and he suggested me to go with you two.'' Flannery then searched for the envelope with the tickets but she only found two. ''Hey, wait, these are just two, hmm, I could have swore Uncle Kabu said they were three, why would he give me only two?''

''Yeah, I wonder why...'' Bea rolled her eyes.

''Well, it's fine, the ship will be sailing in half an hour so if we run we can buy the third ticket, who's up?''

''Well, what do you say, Bea?'' Ash asked.

''I'm not sure, I did say I wanted to go, but in half an hour? it seems too sudden, we should organize an schedule first.''

''I guess you're right, it's my fault, I should have told you sooner.'' Ash admitted as he looked back at Flannery. ''Looks like we're staying here another while, Flannery.''

''Well, it's alright, say goodbye to uncle Kabu for me, he's in a reunion with the Gym Leaders, they're all here in Motostoke.''

''Wait, ALL the Gym Leaders?'' Bea asked.

''Yes, that's what uncle Kabu said, I'll see you in Sinnoh then, take care.'' Flannery said as she took Litleo and started to walk away.

''We'll see you there, Flannery.'' Ash waved goodbye as well.

''Wait! We're going with you!'' Bea exclaimed.

''You are?'' Flannery asked.

''We are?'' Ash asked as well.

''Of course! You said you wanted to see your friend, right? You can't just go the last day and say goodbye instantly, she must be there already, you should spent all the time you can with her!'' She's gonna regret saying that later, a lot.

''Well, I-''

''Great! Now you go and pack our things, here, my room key.'' Bea interrupted again, handing her key to Ash, she then started to drag Flannery away as Cinderace followed her. ''Flannery and I will be heading up to the port to buy the third ticket!'' She had to get out of the city as soon as possible. ''See ya there!''

''I...ok.'' Ash simply went to the Pokemon Center.

''Geez, what a mess.'' Ash said entering Bea's room seeing many things on the ground and over the bed, he quickly organized everything, until he stopped noticing a picture that fell down from Bea's shorts. The picture fell upside down, Ash hesitated a moment before seeing it since it could be something private, curiosity simply won and he looked at the picture, it was a smiling young Bea, very young, maybe 4-5 years old, she didn't had her hairband and was in the lap of a white-skinned black haired woman, both of them were wearing white shirts and orange skirts.

''This is...Bea's mother?'' Ash looked at woman noticing that despite them being very different, her eyes were exactly the same as Bea's, he then looked around and tried to spot more photos, and although he glanced from away at some that were on Bea's backpack, he didn't saw them then. 'I shouldn't be watching these things without her permission to begin with.' Ash put the photo back where it was and ended packing Bea's things, he then went for his owns and then to get their Pokemon and a memory flew through his head as he was about to leave the door.

''Oh! I have to do something before we leave!'' A quick call later. ''Hi, mom.''

''OH? So you finally remembered you have a mother.'' Delia said with a cold stare.

''Sorry mom, I was really excited and I guess I forgot to call.''

''Don't worry about it.'' She got back to her usual self. "I know my son well enough, how have you been?"

''I'm great! I just won my third badge.''

''Sigh, battles is all you think about."

"What do you mean?"

''I talked with that girl Nessa, I had my doubts but she seems quite nice.''

''You talked with Nessa?''

''Yes, I saw that photo session of yours and let me say Ash, I'm a little disappointed.''

''Mom, I-''

''But you are already old enough, so I guess I shouldn't get in your business, I suppose that girl Nessa is your...how do you call them? Traveling companion?''

''She's not. Nessa is a Gym Leader, right now I'm traveling with a girl called Bea.''

''Really? And where is she?''

''She's waiting for me in the port, we'll go to Sinnoh for a few days to see May. You remember May, right?''

''Of course...oh, Ash, always surrounded by so many girls and still you can't get a girlfriend.''

''Oh, mom, well gotta go, the ship will sail in a few minutes.''

''Take care, Ash.''

''You too, love you mom.''

''You're surprisingly calm with all of this.'' Cinderace said to Bea as they as Flannery was buying the tickets.

''It'll be fine, Flannery seems to be the one girl who isn't into Ash. so I'm not worried.''

''Here it is, now all three of us will go to Sinnoh.'' Flannery said handed Bea the third ticket.

''Yay.''

"Now, come, let's get in."

Flannery and Bea walked to the ship until to hand over the tickets.

"Here you go." Flannery handed both her ticket and Ash's.

"Oh, two tickets?" The crew member asked.

"Yup! The other is for my friend Ash, you'll recognize him when he comes, he has a Pikachu on his shoulder all the time."

''I'm afraid there was a mistake." The crew member said to Flannery looking at the ticket. "The tickets Mr. Kabu bought for you were meant for a couple so you'll have to share your room with Ash...there's only one bed too...''

''A-ASH AND I?! Sleeping TOGETHER?!'' Flannery hold her cheeks as she started to blush at the thought.

''She fell for him, didn't she?'' Bea asked to Cinderace looking from behind

''Looks like it.''

''Sigh...''

''That makes me wonder...are we getting a girl for every type? Like we have Nessa for water, Roxie for Poison and now Flannery for Fire, if main companions like you don't count, then Korrina is for Fighting, we're going to Sinnoh so I guess Gardenia could work for Grass, or maybe Erika, Flying better be Skyla then, like, no homo but...those thighs, damn.''

''Are you seriously making theories about that?''

''Since you don't use me for battles that much lately I've been getting a lot of free time, look, I already have a conceptual map.'' Cinderace showed Bea a diagram she made with the name of various girls. ''What do you think about Sabrina for Psychic? Anabel is nice but she's kinda overdone.''

''...Cinderace, I appreciate and love you, but you really make me want to burn this hairband some times.''

''B-But we can't sleep together!'' Flannery continued to yell out as her face turned even more red than her hair.

''Flannery is okay.'' Bea tried to stop her from making a scene. ''You and I will have the shared room, fine?''

''Fine, uh, thanks, Bea.''

''Great, now you wait here for Ash and give him my ticket, I'll be waiting up in the ship, I need some fresh air.'' Bea walked aboard the ship as Cinderace followed her.

''Uh, right, I'll wait for Ash...Ash...''

''Ah, yes, there was only one bed, such a classic.'' Kabu smiled as he explained his plan to the rest of the Gym Leaders while they walked to the reunion.

''Why are you so fixated in getting her with Ash?'' Melony asked.

''Because Flannery is the single most important thing in my whole world! As long as I live and breathe, I'll never hand her to any man lesser than the world's absolute best boy! And that's Ash!''

''It seems like you him more than she does...'' Gordie mocked the man.

''Hmp, I'm a true believer of 'Honor to whom honor is due'. Kabu stated.

''Well, I'm sorry to be the one who says it.'' Milo interrupted. ''But it seems like Flannery has a lot of competition, Nessa for example.''

''Meh, Nessa is too old for him anyway.'' Kabu said.

''Why is everyone saying that?! He's 17 and I'm 22! What's the big deal?!''

''What if you make him develop some mommy fetish?'' Melony asked.

''YOU'RE ONE TO TALK!'' Nessa shouted remembering that unlucky peak she had in Melony's fan club page, people can be weird.

''Woop! Woop! Is the sound of da police!''

''Raihan, I swear! I'll punch that toothy grin of yours so hard that the world will change color pallets.''

''This Ketchum kid sure is something.'' Peony joined the conversation. ''I might mimic Kabu and try to get Nia with him.''

''Are you trying to see who can piss me off the most or what?!'' Nessa was honestly starting to get tired of her co-workers.

''Oh, come on Nessa, don't kale the vibe.'' Milo said as some crickets were heard.

''...''

''What about you, Klara?'' Avery asked her. ''Are you interested in Ash as well?''

''Pfft, I'm too much for him.''

''Now that you mention Peonia...'' Allister joined the conversation. ''Did she completed the test already?''

''Almost!'' Peony said rejoiced. ''She already passed all the theory tests with A! Now she just needs to win the test battle and she'll be an official Gym Leader just like her papa!''

''But will she be your successor?'' Piers asked.

''Nah ah, this old tank still has some oil, she wants to open a new Gym somewhere else.'' Peony then started to shed tears. ''She's gonna leave papa all alone in Freezington!'' Peony dropped himself on the ground, crying dramatically as Allister tried to confort him.

''It seems we'll have plenty of young Gym leaders.'' Opal started. ''I want to retire soon but I still haven't found a good successor.''

''Alright, enough, everyone.'' Kabu said. ''Let's head to the reunion room.'' The Gym Leaders kept walking until they made it to the specified room, where Habe and Genta were already waiting for them, right outside the door.

''Ah, here you are, Habe.'' Kabu offered the fellow Gym Leader a handshake. ''Glad you could finally make it.''

''Let's just get this over with.'' The man ignored the handshake and walked inside the room as Genta stood outside the door.

''See? Creepy.'' Raihan said entering first as the rest of the Gym Leaders followed him.

Meanwhile with Bea in the deck of the cruise.

''Perfect, just perfect! We are going to another region, it was the perfect chance to make a move on Ash, far away from Nessa, but no! Now I have to deal with Flannery! And I'm sure she'll be very happy clinging to Ash, groping him with those...those...THOSE GOD'S GIVEN AIRBAGS!''

''HA! God's given airbags...no seriously, those things are big, like, how old is she?'' Cinderace said while taking a sun bath. ''Anyway, we really need to get you to a jealousy control seminar, Repeat after me: Los celotes no tienen mais.''

''I'm not going to say that!''

''Pfft, how dramatic.''

''I'M NOT DRAMATIC!'' Bea shouted dramatically. ''One of these days, Cinderace, one of these days you're gonna fall in love too and you'll understand how all this feels!''

''Pfft, sure, I'm a strong free independent rabbit, there's no mon in this world that will make me act the same way you do.''

''ACHOO!''

''Bless you, Infernape.''

''Ah, Thanks, Torterra, that felt weird.''

''And how do I act according to you?''

''Like, you want to kick in the face every girl that looks in the same direction as Ash, you worry too much, give yourself some credit, sure, that girl Flannery may have a huge rack, Nessa might have landed two kisses already, there's also that girl Roxie with her songs, but you have...uh, you have...you have...help me here, would you?''

''AAAARGH!'' Trying to eject her anger away from her, Bea kicked a nearby beach ball that bounced around until it stopped flat in the face of a blue-haired girl knocking her to the ground.

''...ouch.'' That was all she could say once her mind processed the hit.

''Ah! I'm really sorry!'' Bea quickly ran to aid the girl. ''Are you okay?!''

''Uh, yes, kinda hurts but it's no big deal.''

''Sorry, I didn't see you there, uh, here.'' Bea offered the girl her hand and helped her to get up. ''My name is Bea.''

''I'm Dawn, nice to meet you.''

''Nice to meet you too.''

''Well, I'll go back to my room, I have something for the headache in there.''

''Uh, do you want me to take you there?'' Bea got closer to her, but Dawn backed away slightly scared.

''No, no, don't worry, hope to see you again.'' Dawn waved goodbye as she rubbed her face and walked to her room.

''Uh, bye then, sorry again.'' Bea then stood on her place a few moments. ''That girl looked oddly familiar.''

Back in the port, Ash was almost in the boat.

''Glad to hear from you, again, Ash, be safe.'' Kukui said, talking to Ash through his Rotom Phone.

''Thanks, Prof. Kukui, I'll go to Alola soon, I promise.''

''And I'll be waiting for that! Goodbye, Ash!''

''Goodbye, Dad.'' Ash said cutting the call before Kukui could react.

''D-Did he just-''

''Kukui, he's kicking!'' Burnet called from the living room.

''AH?! I'M GOING!''

''Ash, up here!" Flannery called from the cruise. "Hurry up, we're almost sailing."

Without much else happening, Ash handed Bea her backpack and Pokemon and everyone went to their rooms, due to the current situation, Bea didn't want to talk with Ash until she could calm down.

"Bea, are you sure you don't want to sleep in the bed too? There's plenty of space.''

''Flannery, I'm not getting through that." Bea said preparing her tent on the floor. "If I sleep with you, in the morning my face will end up between your...sigh.''

"Oh come on." Cinderace said from inside the tent. "Yours are not so-"

"Cinderace, please shut up."

"Wait, you can talk with your Cinderace?" Flannery asked surprised.

"Yes; And sorry, but it's a long story and I don't want to explain it now, maybe tomorrow."

''Wow...Hey, have you met May?''

''I haven't, I've met some of Ash past acquaintances tho, you included.''

''I see, and how long it's been since you and Ash met?''

''Well, I think it's three weeks by now.''

''What? Only three weeks? Even though you look so close.''

"We do? ...Well, thanks."

"Good night, Bea."

"Good night Flannery."

Bea then went inside her tent, where Cinderace was waiting for her.

"So..." The rabbit began her usual tease. "You still haven't told me about that kiss."

"It was nothing, he had a nightmare, we talked about it and I gave him a forehead kiss before leaving, just something silly."

"My little Bea is growing up!" Cinderace squealed in happiness. "How do you feel?"

"I feel...bad."

"What?! Why?!"

"...Because Ash trust me enough to tell me his fears and anxieties...But I can't do the same...why can't I just tell him the true? ...I told him we're in this together...did I really mean it?"

"I'm sure you'll find a way." Cinderace patted Bea's head softly. "Now go to sleep, you deserve it."

"Good night, Cinderace." Bea said putting her hairband away.

"Good night, Bea."

"Good night, Pikachu." Ash said to his partner before sleeping, still thinking about his nightmare.

-There's no escape from this-

"I don't care if the things get rough." Ash said to himself. "Cause I'm sure you and I can make it through." Ash finally calmed himself and decided to sleep.

''Well, it seems like that was the last subject.'' Kabu said to the rest of the gym leaders. ''Thanks to everyone for coming, this is where we part.''

''Oh, wait.'' Opal interrupted. ''Weren't we going to meet the new Stow-on-Side Leader today?''

''Oh, right!'' Milo said. ''What about that, Habe? When will you introduce us to you successor?''

''I'm afraid there was a little delay.'' The man answered. ''But I'll you introduce you to my successor soon, I'm not getting younger anyways.''

After that, everyone left the place and each Gym Leader went back to its city.

''How was the reunion, Sir?'' Genta asked walking behind him.

''...As always.'' Habe answered not looking back. ''Am I to blame, Genta?

''What do you mean, Sir?''

''I only taught what they taught me, there was never that much I could give her.''

''I guess not, Sir.''

"I only gave her simple orders and rules, yet she managed to break evey single one if them, she's the perfect image of myself, why can't she be more like me?"

''Miss Shinka has always been quite different from you, you may be right, physically she's almost exactly like you, almost, she inherited everything from you, except for her eyes, that's the one thing she got from her mother, it's like she may look like you, but her soul is like her mother's, always so free-spirited and wanting to do things her own way.''

''Genta, she barely remembers anything of her mother, how can she be so much like her?"

''That Cinderace of hers may be the reason, I always thought Miss Shinka spend more time with her Cinderace because the Pokemon reminded her of her mother, that may be why she was always pretending to talk with her, she must see her as a mother figure, to be honest, Sir, I think Miss Shinka spent more time with her Cinderace than with you.''

"I knew letting her keep that Scorbunny was a bad idea."

"Still, I don't think you should antagonize Miss Shinka, she's-"

''You helped her escape, didn't you?''

''I didn't, sir.''

''Look me in the eyes and say that again!'' Habe hold Genta by his neck as he ordered. Genta and the others had made an oath since they were young, they couldn't lie to the leader under any circumstances, and although he had already flexed the rules in order to help her, the interrogations were never this direct.

''I didn't help Miss Shinka escape the stadium.'' And that technically wasn't a lie, he only won her some time once she was already outside after all.

''You're telling the true...Please, forgive me, Genta." Habe let him go as Genta took some air.

"I understand, Sir."

"Yes, but I don't, if you didn't help her, why are you on her side then?''

''...Sir, would you allow me to speak with freedom?''

''...Go ahead.''

''I honestly admire Miss Shinka, This is the thing, Takeru, the guys and I were born and taught to serve in the Stow-on-Side Gym and we played on with that, we never felt an urge to complain about what had been already chosen for us, Miss Shinka was born and taught to be a Gym Leader, but she decided that she wanted to be something else and she escaped to do so.''

''Does that means you're planning something similar?''

''Of course not, Sir.'' Genta assured the man. ''I'm perfectly happy with my work, but Miss Shinka wasn't, she wanted to choose and find her own role, she wanted to be more than what you could see for her, more that what she was meant to be.''

''...Takeru and his troop are already searching for her, right?''

''Yes, they are.''

''When we get back to Stow-on-side, tell them to retreat...we'll give this up for now, she wants to disappear? Then fine.''

''Wise decision, Sir.''

'Still, she better don't get back to Stow-on-Side ever again, I won't be willing to give her a warm welcome.''

Genta simply sighed relieved as he thought. 'Be safe...Saito.'