u/Phant0m_Trainer

The backstory of the side characters create an impact on any story and helps us understand the depth of the their behaviour. What happened to them in the past, and Why did they want to support the protagonist of the story? Now any side character in the Pokemon series or fanfic can have a normal backstory. It was as if they had lost a competition and decided they would never lose again Or they support the main character to fulfill their a dream.

But in some stories, backstory is filled with trauma and bad memories of being attacked by wild Pokémon, which caused them to develop a fear And throughout the journey, they learned to overcome that trauma. Or maybe Some organization may have done something or they may have lost someone close to them etc.

Then there could be some story that can be considered dark or psychologically disturbed. Where something happened to the character that left them completely traumatized and they couldn't remember anything because it was so dark that they even didn't went to that past again.

There can be many such examples which can make the story interesting and can teach the main character about other side of the world. Can you share the backstory of some of your side characters?

(Note: There should be only side characters, not the main character, villain and Pokemons, we will talk about them later)

[In my story, the stories of two characters have just been revealed. They are incomplete because I wanna write them deeply as the story will progress further. But their past is dark, serious and full of trauma. Which I would share later....]

Ch.17 :: Accursed For Others

Pokémon Supreme [Previous Chapters]

AO3

Wattpad

At the Ruins of Cryneth, after a heated argument broke out between Kai and Ash regarding Clecy's identity, Kai went his own separate way. Ash sat quietly on top of a stone pillar, lost in deep thought. Kai's parting words echoed in his heart, hurting him deeply: “Because of your selfless behavior, you make the wrong choices, which is why you'll never be able to save anyone—just like you couldn't save Red.”

This statement kept looping in Ash's mind. Seeing Ash in such a state, Pikachu lowered his ears, looking at him with deep concern.

"Chaa..." a sound filled with pure sadness and worry.

Clecy stood at a distance, quietly holding her wrist, while Cleffa looked up at its trainer with a sad expression. Nearby, Marika was applying bandages to Enji's scratches, which he had gotten when Kai pushed him back.

Pikachu couldn't stand seeing his best friend like this anymore. He tried his best to cheer Ash up. “Pika-pi… piii chaaa, pwkkaa wi.” *(Why are you sitting like this? Whatever Kai said was just out of anger. Let's talk to him and bring him back.)*

Ash looked at Pikachu, gave a faint smile, and said, "Thank you, but Kai has lost his trust in us."

Ash remembered when their friendship first began near the Pokémon Center cafe area in Viridian City. Ash had asked him, "Kai, why do you look at everyone with so much suspicion?"

Without denying it, Kai had answered, "Because I don't trust anyone. You never know who will turn out to be what kind of person." Then, remembering something from his past, he added softly to himself, "I didn't even trust my own parents."

Ash asked, "Not even your parents? Why?"

"Your ears are pretty sharp," Kai replied, taken aback.

Ash brought it up again because Kai had mentioned his parents during their fight.

Kai refused, "That's my personal matter. Just know that except for my older sister and my master, it's hard for me to trust anyone."

"You have an older sister too? And who is this master?" Ash asked with curiosity.

"I told you, I don't like talking about these things," Kai said, flatly refusing to reveal anything about himself.

"That's not fair. You know everything about me and Pikachu, but you won't tell me anything about yourself," Ash insisted, acting a bit stubborn.

"Just know this much: I would do anything for my older sister and my master," Kai answered.

Ash made a face upon hearing that excuse. "What kind of answer is that?"

"It's my answer, whether you like it or not," Kai said.

Wearing a bright, wide smile, Ash said, "A moment ago you said no one is trustworthy, yet you're willing to sacrifice everything for the people closest to you."

Kai flinched slightly, hesitation showing on his face. "Why are you bringing this up all of a sudden?"

Ash said, "Whether you trust someone quickly or not doesn't matter. What matters is that the person you're trusting is actually worthy of that trust."

Kai's eyes widened in surprise upon hearing this, and Ash continued, "You told me about the people who mean the absolute world to you. That means..."

Kai asked, "What does that mean?"

Ash gave a hopeful answer, "It means you trust me."

Denying it, Kai snapped, "Nonsense! I never said anything like that."

Ash grinned, "You're denying it now, which means you accepted it earlier."

Trying to ignore the conversation, Kai said, "By the way, don't forget that I don't like champions either, and you happen to be one."

Ash replied, "Fair enough. But one day, you'll share everything—once you learn what trust in friendship truly means."

Kai looked at Ash and said, "Alright, let's see whether you're worthy of my trust or not."

Kai set a condition: "If you manage to convince me that I should put my faith in friendship, I will share everything about my past. But if you fail, forget about continuing this journey with me."

Kai thought Ash would surrender after hearing such a condition, but the answer he received took him completely by surprise.

"Fine! I accept the challenge," Ash declared, his eyes burning with passion and determination. "Because when it comes to friendship, I never back down!"

And with that, Ash and Kai had formed a pact of friendship—a pact that had now been shattered by the recent turn of events.

_ _ _ _ _

**Back to the Present**

Seeing how downcast Ash was, Clecy walked over and sat down beside him. "I'm so sorry… It's because of me that Kai got upset and left."

As Clecy apologized, Ash said, "It's not your fault at all. Kai is just like that. Don't worry, he'll come back soon."

"But if I had just kept my mouth shut, none of this would have happened," Clecy said, putting all the blame on herself.

Ash replied, "You didn't do anything wrong. Like I said, Kai is a bit difficult to understand. I only recently became his friend." Ash looked up at the sky and added, "Kai is the kind of friend who will compete with you, be concerned about close ones, and lecture others at the same time."

The sad smile on Ash's face was painfully obvious. Noticing it, Clecy spoke up, "They were all right... I really am an Accursed."

Hearing this, both Ash and Pikachu turned to look at Clecy, who was staring down at the ground, shrinking into herself as if trying to hide from the world.

"Yes... an Accursed who only brings misery into everyone's life."

Ash was stunned by her words. "What are you saying, Clecy? Don't ever think about yourself like that!"

Clecy pushed his words aside and continued, "My parents, village elders, kids and everyone in the village were right. An Accursed always destroys happiness and spreads despair."

A faint smile appeared on her face, as if this wasn't just a label to her, but her true identity. "I'm the Accursed for the World—"

Before she could finish, Ash grabbed her arm and turned her toward him. "No one ever said you're an Accursed!"

Ash raised his voice passionately, "How can you think of yourself like that?!"

Clecy answered quietly, "Because that's what everyone in my village used to call me.”

Ash and Pikachu, who had been deeply troubled about Kai, forgot all about their worries the moment they heard Clecy’s words. "Pikaaaa," Pikachu cried out, wrapping his arms around Clecy's leg in a comforting hug.

Cleffa joined in, hugging Clecy's other leg. Ash placed his hands on both of her shoulders, speaking in a sharp yet worried tone, "Clecy, you are not an Accursed! You are innocent, caring, and thoughtful toward everyone. Don't you ever let thoughts like that cross your mind again."

Ash thought to himself, *'How could someone with a personality as kind as hers say something like that about herself? It's so hard to believe.'* Ash's eyes trembled in complete disbelief. *'What could have possibly happened to you in the past that makes you view yourself this way?'*

Yet, Ash wants answers but he didn't want to hurt Clecy further by recalling her past. On other hand Tears began to well up in Clecy's eyes.

Just then, Enji stormed over to Ash in a fit of rage and shouted, "You... Why are you making my angel cry?! You've turned into a grumpy jerk just like that other guy!"

Enji's face was bright red from the nerves of speaking so rudely to his absolute idol once again. "Even though... no, I am your fan... but still, you have no right to make an angel cry!"

Ash smiled warmly and turned to Clecy, "See, Clecy? To someone out there, you're an angel, not a curse."

Marika stepped up from behind and teased him softly, "Enji, you still can't properly face others, can you?"

"Stop it, Sister! I only spoke up like that so I could save my angel!" Enji protested, his face turning completely red with embarrassment.

"Enji!!" Clecy looked at his overly protective nature. She stepped forward and hugged him tightly. "Thank you so much, my protector."

Enji's heart rate shot up like a rocket. 'She's… she's actually hugging me?!' His eyes went wide in utter shock. His brain instantly short-circuited as he got completely lost in a daydream.

"What's wrong, Enji? Are you alright?" Clecy asked, growing worried. "Ashhh, he's unconscious!"

"Don’t worry, he’s just living in his dreams now," Marika chuckled.

"We'll stay here until he wakes up, so just take care of him for a bit, Clecy." Ash decided to rest at the ruins a little longer.

**Clecy, who considers herself accursed—what truly happened in her past? What is the unknown mystery surrounding her? Will Kai come back to the group, and what will Ash do next?**

**To Be Continued…**

Ch.14 :: Wound Deeper Than Pain

For previous chapters :: 👇🏻 AO3

REDDIT

The bright morning sunlight streamed into the room through the window. Ash woke up early and stepped out onto the balcony, and beside him, Pikachu stretched his body.

“Good morning, Pikachu,” Ash said, stretching his own body.

“Chaa!” Pikachu looked refreshing.

“Good to hear. It's been a while since we last traveled like this,” Ash said, resting his hands on the railing.

“So many things happened… in the last few years. Pikachu, back there, I gave up on everything when I heard about Red. I thought I couldn't save him, or the others, or anyone… but now, I won't repeat those mistakes. This time, I will never give up.”

“It's a good way to motivate yourself every day,” Kai said from the nearby balcony.

“Kai! Good morning,” Ash said, noticing him.

“It would be nice if you kept motivating yourself like this,” Kai replied.

“Thanks, but I'm not alone. I have my friends with me, and I have you, who showed me the right path,” Ash said with a bright smile.

“I think that's enough positivity for today,” Kai replied.

“Is Clecy still sleeping?” Kai asked.

“She stayed up late last night with Marika, so both of them are still in a deep sleep,” Ash replied.

Suddenly, the sound of a huge explosion came from the nearby forest…..

“What was that?!” Ash asked Kai.

“I don't know. Let's check it out,” Kai said.

Both of them immediately rushed towards the forest following the sound. As both arrived at the cause, they saw a little, unknown Pokémon that was injured. And in front of it stood a wild Tyranitar, who looked completely mad at that little Pokémon.

Tyranitar, in a pure rage, was about to use Hyper Beam on that little Pokémon. But Ash commanded Pikachu,

“Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!”

“Pikapikapika… pi-ka!” Pikachu's Volt Tackle landed squarely on Tyranitar's belly.

At that moment, Ash rushed toward that unknown Pokémon and grabbed it in his hands.

“Are you okay?” Ash asked the Pokémon.

Suddenly, Tyranitar regained his posture and was about to use Giga Impact, but Kai threw his Poké Ball. “Scizor, use Metal Claw!”

Scizor's attack dealt heavy damage to Tyranitar, but the wild Pokémon still fought back.

“Pikachu, Iron Tail!” Ash said.

“pika!”

“Scizor, finish it now! X-Scissor!”

“Sii-zorrr!” Scizor landed a powerful attack.

Then, Kai threw a Poké Ball at Tyranitar and caught him. “That was easy peasy. Tyranitar, now you're on my team,” Kai said while picking up the Poké Ball.

“That's not fair! I was about to catch Tyranitar!” Ash said, while still holding the unknown Pokémon.

“I'm the one who landed the final blow. So, according to the rules, it's my catch,” Kai said with a teasing expression.

“In that case, I'm the one who landed the first attack on him! So, I'm the one who did the real work,” Ash replied.

“That's not very well-behaved for a World Champion,” Kai taunted Ash.

“Are you messing with me? You're the one who tries to act cool,” Ash replied.

“So, you want to battle me again?” Kai said.

“Enough, both of you! You're acting like kids,” Professor Ryan interfered, stepping between them.

“We're not fighting. We're just messing with each other,” Ash replied.

“Really? Because I'm ready for our rematch,” Kai said, pointed his Pokéball towards Ash

“Fine, But unfortunately, I already know the outcome of our rematch,” Ash replied.

“Okay, okay!!” Ryan stopped them. “There you are! You followed me all the way from the lab, Hopplef.”

“Hopp…” the Pokémon cried with a sad expression.

The unknown Pokémon in Ash's hands was named Hopplef.

“Hopplef?” Ash said, looking down at it.

It was one of the Altus Region's starter Pokémon: a little Grass/Bug-type creature. It had tiny hands but stood on two strong legs. Even though its arms were small, its legs were strong enough to shatter a rock easily. Hopplef is known as the Strong Leg Pokémon, famous for its incredible speed. Its jumps are exceptionally high, and because it is so lightweight, it can easily sprint across the surface of water. The leaf-shaped, dual antennae on its head keep it closely connected to nature, allowing it to detect targets across a wide range and giving it lightning-fast reflexes.

“Wow, you're so cool!” Ash said with excitement.

“Pi-ka!” Pikachu added with a happy expression.

After hearing himself praised by someone, Hopplef became more upset and terrified.

“What happened?! Did I say something wrong?” Ash panicked.

“No, it's not your fault. Hopplef gets scared whenever someone praises him,” Ryan said.

“Is this that Hopplef?” It seemed like Kai knew the Pokémon.

“So, you remember him now,” Ryan answered.

“What do you mean, that one?” Ash asked.

“Don't be mad, Ash. In Altus, everyone knows this Hopplef, and he's known to be incompetent,” Kai said.

“Incompetent?! What do you mean?” Ash asked.

“Pi-?” Pikachu was also stunned.

“It's better if you don't know anything about him,” Ryan said. “Let's head back to the house. Hopplef, you might be injured.” Ryan took Hopplef from Ash's hands.

“Hoo-p…” the Pokémon whimpered, looking down.

“Don't ever do anything stupid again. And don't worry—I will never abandon you,” Ryan said softly to Hopplef.

“Ho-opp…”

“Kai, what do you mean by incompetent?” Ash asked again.

“Hopplef is typically one of the best starter Pokémon in Altus. Its calm nature and connection with new trainers are far better than any other starter. Hopplef is usually considered the quickest, most reflexive creature—except for this one. Usually, Hopplef hatch from eggs after three to four weeks, but in his case, he took more than four months to hatch.”

“More than four months?” Ash asked, shocked.

“Many professors and researchers were worried about that egg. They provided enough nutrition, the right temperature, and every clinical condition that was needed. Especially Ryan, who looked after that egg personally and was always attached to it. He forgot all of his work for that Hopplef egg. That phenomenon is called superfetation.”

“So that's why,” Ash muttered.

“Nah, it's too early for that. After hatching from his egg, Hopplef was completely normal and healthy. Until… that day, when a new trainer picked him as a starter. But at the end of the day, the trainer returned and exchanged him. He said that Hopplef was a complete failure—he didn't even dodge one of the simplest attacks, nor was he able to use any moves. Ryan was worried about him. Many assistant professors performed so many tests, but all of the results were the same. He was completely flawed. He wasn't even able to perform his most common instinct: a simple dodge.”

“But the tragedy didn't stop here. Many trainers still chose him even after knowing his faults. They would say, 'He's not a failure. Everyone has some weakness, but they need someone to overcome it with.' But in the end, most of them gave up on him. Some kept him in their team but never used him, refusing to even consider Hopplef as a fighting Pokémon, a Coordinator's partner, or even a Performer. They returned him to Ryan after a few months because there was no success.”

“Everyone praised him at the start, but in the end, all of them accepted the reality that Hopplef was a complete failure. Most of the laboratory Pokémon and Hopplef's friends lost their connection with him. They also felt he was annoying, useless to anyone, and a failure. But Hopplef didn't give up. He trained harder every day, until one day, his innocence caused a lifetime of hellish memories for someone else. A young disabled kid in a wheelchair named Connie became his best friend; they were so close, shared so many things, and made so many memories together, both share a common thing: a natural disability. Ryan also felt happy because Hopplef finally got someone who considered him a friend. Their bond became deep and understandable, but…one day everything changed…..

“Connie and Hopplef were wandering around the mountain with the others. Everything seemed normal and peaceful as Connie and Hopplef enjoyed the mountain view. Both of them went a little too far from the others to enjoy the scenery together. But a few hours later, when neither of them had returned, some officers looked for them. An officer found Connie's wheelchair on the edge of a cliff, and Hopplef was nearby in a state of deep shock, completely paralyzed. The rescue team searched the forest and they found Connie, but it was already too late. Connie had lost his life…

“It looked like someone had pushed him from the edge of the cliff. According to rumors, vicious bandits lived in that area, or perhaps wild Pokémon who easily attack others. The officer also said Hopplef tried to protect him, but he couldn't do anything, which was why he was found in that traumatized condition… However, some people spread rumors that one of Ryan’s lab Pokémon had pushed a disabled kid off a cliff. Of course, those were Ryan's enemies and rivals trying to destroy his reputation. Even so, Ryan kept protecting Hopplef.”

“Then, far worse things happened. Connie's mother took her own life. According to investigators, Connie's mother was in such deep trauma and depression after her son's death that it drove her to take her life. Which caused a massive public outbreak against Ryan. He almost lost his license and his position. Hopplef saw everything and realized he could never heal what had already been done. Ryan somehow managed to get his reputation back, but Hopplef was already broken mentally and emotionally, too. He accepted that he was a failure.”

“That's the tragic past of that Hopplef,” Kai said, finishing his explanation.

Ash and Pikachu were speechless for a few seconds and then broke the silence “That is brutal. I can never imagine how Hopplef feels,” Ash said, his expression serious and sad. He looked at his hands, remembering his own nightmares and fear during the Karkus incident. “He… he is in pain. A bottomless pit where he suffers every day.”

“Pika…” Pikachu also felt the same way as Ash—mourning for a Pokémon who had accepted that he was a failure.

“Don't overthink it, Ash. That was Hopplef's fate,” Kai said.

“Fate…?!” Ash smiled faintly. “If that was his fate, then I deny it.”

“What do you mean?” Kai was surprised.

“Pikaaa-pii!” Pikachu's cheeks sparked with electricity, his expression energetic and determined.

“Yes, Pikachu!” Ash responded to Pikachu's action.

“What do you want to do now?” Kai asked.

“I disagree with Hopplef's fate, Kai. Pikachu and I are going to change his fate,” Ash said with a wide smile.

“Huh… I guess you still don't understand,” Kai replied.

Back at the guest house living room, Ryan completed Hopplef's first aid.

“Here we go. Now you are completely fine, Hopplef,” Ryan said while treating Hopplef's injury.

“Professor Ryan, can I ask you something?” Ash asked from behind.

“No, I don't agree with you,” Ryan answered.

“But I didn't even say anything,” Ash said with a surprised look.

“I know what you're gonna say. I won't give Hopplef to you,” Ryan said while turning around.

“How do you know that?!” Ash was a little surprised.

“I know that you're the best trainer of all time. Most of the Pokémon in your team were losers, abandoned by their trainers, or labeled the weakest… but you believe in their strength, willpower, and love, which makes them strong enough to face Legendaries and the toughest opponents,” Ryan said to Ash.

“How do you…?” Ash and Pikachu were both surprised that Ryan already knew so much about all of Ash's Pokémon.

“If you know that much, then why?” Ash asked.

“First, you're here for Pokémon League work, not to look out for others,” Ryan said.

“Do you want to say I shouldn't interfere in other people's business?” Ash replied.

“Kinda. But the second thing is: do you still believe no one in the world has actually tried hard to make Hopplef stronger? There are more than a thousand trainers all over the world who are far stronger and closer to Pokémon than you,” Ryan said in a calm voice.

“I know that there are so many better trainers than me. Some of them I’ve met, some of them I’ve fought, and some of them are still unknown to me. But how can I just stand still when I see a Pokémon looking hopeless right in front of my eyes?” Ash replied to Ryan, his eyes filling with determination.

“I know that I'm here for League work, and I don't want to involve myself in other people's personal things. But I know how it feels when the world sees you as a loser, when you blame yourself for everything, and when you live a life with guilt and pain in your heart. That's why I can never give up on anyone who is in deep pain,” Ash continued.

Kai stood still near the door, while Hopplef looked at Ash, who was sitting on the sofa behind Ryan.

“So, you want to say you're able to do what professional trainers, researchers, and scientists couldn't do?” Ryan replied.

“I'm not saying that I can definitely do it, but I just can't ignore it. Pikachu and I will give it everything we've got to succeed,” Ash said.

“There was a trainer around a few years ago who argued with me just like you, and I lost against his argument.” Ryan shared his previous experience. “He was honest and selfless. He loved Pokémon and chose Hopplef as his starter. He promised me he would never abandon any Pokémon who's in trouble,” Ryan said, explaining his previous experience.

“That trainer became the Altus region champion, traveled through many regions, and became a fine trainer with Hopplef. He never abandoned him, but he rarely used Hopplef in battles—maybe even not at all. That trainer never gave up on Hopplef because he loved Pokémons. He always stood for him, but the most tragic part is, Hopplef knew that he was useless. In the end, that Hopplef decided to leave his master's team on his own.”

“The problem is not that no trainer will choose him. The problem is that Hopplef wants to stand worthy of that love and loyalty,” Ryan said in a calm voice.

“Ash Ketchum, I already know your potential and your love toward Pokémon, and I would give Hopplef to you happily. But does Hopplef want to be with you? That depends on him,” Ryan said.

Ash and Pikachu both remained silent. They knew that even if Hopplef entered their team, would he actually accept them? Would he consider them his true partners, or would he just live as a burdensome extra again? Those thoughts wandered through Ash's mind. But in the end, he stood frozen because he didn't have a counter-argument. This time, it wasn't about a trainer choosing a Pokémon—it was about a Pokémon choosing its master.

“Okay, let's take a nap again. Bye!” Ryan said, about to leave with hopplef

“Hey, Ryan, what about our work?” Kai said.

“Ahh, didn't you hear? It's my day off,” Ryan replied.

“You lazy-ass professor! How many days off do you need?” Kai snapped, completely pissed off.

“Don't be mad, Kai. I'll just take a little nap, and then we'll focus on the work,” Ryan said as he took his leave.

“I'm done with that laziest professor ever,” Kai said, his expression furious.

Suddenly, Ryan popped his head back through the door and said, “Oh, I forgot to mention—the Altus Festival is this week too, so I’m taking that day off as well! So, enjoy the festival.” Ryan left again, whispering to himself, “It's my best year yet. First, I take a personal rest day-off, then I take a family meet-up day-off, and then the Altus Festival day-off… (hehehehe)… If I can pull off a sick leave day too, I won't have to work the whole week… (hehehehe).”

“Should I make your whole life a permanent day off?” Kai muttered.

“Hey Ash, how long are you gonna stand there?” Kai approached Ash and saw that his mind was completely blank.

“Pi-kaaa-piiii…” Pikachu also gave a hopeless expression.

A Few Minutes Later…

“That Professor Ryan is actually something. I've met so many professors, but he is amazing in his own way. He has a lot of experience,” Ash said, seeming impressed.

“I don't know about his experience, but he's only 29 years old,” Kai replied.

“What?! Pi-ka?!” Ash and Pikachu were both completely shocked. “He’s that young?!”

“Don't let his lazy appearance fool you,” Kai said. “I’ve heard so many things about him. He started his research on different Pokémon species, their living conditions, ecosystems, and lifecycles at the age of five. He has published plant life journals and theses on every ecosystem in the Pokémon world. He's a certified genius, but on the other hand, he's the laziest and most selfish professor ever exist.”

“Still, he's quite impressive,” Ash said.

“Aaaashhhhh!” Clecy screamed loudly.

“Clecy! Did you sleep well?” Ash responded.

“Ash, I think I had a weird dream where I heard an explosion sound. I'm scared that something happened,” Clecy said, looking panicked.

“No, it was nothing. Kai just blew something up while cooking,” Ash comforted her.

“Ehhh?!” Kai glared at Ash.

“Don't feel scared, I'm here with you,” Ash said with a smile.

“Mr. Cool stop doing such stupid things!” Clecy said, getting angry at Kai.

“Okay… I understand,” Kai said, feeling frustrated that he had to take the blame even though he hadn't done anything.

“Good morning, everyone! I hope you had a great sleep. Breakfast is ready,” Marika said, arriving and greeting them.

“Grawl~” Both Ash's and Clecy's stomachs made a loud noise.

“I think you both are hungry,” Marika said, laughing a little.

“Yeah, I haven't eaten anything yet,” Ash said.

“Me too,” Clecy responded.

“Breakfast is ready, so please help yourselves,” Marika said.

“Why didn't you tell her?” Kai asked Ash before heading toward the table.

“I'm not sure, but I don't want her getting involved in this. I think she's scared of explosions and violence,” Ash replied. “Also, I don't know why but… I just feel like she's the most innocent and inexperienced person I've ever seen.”

Kai glared at Ash “Huh. Whatever you think.” Then he walked towards the dining table.

Everyone enjoyed breakfast, but then Ash noticed someone was missing.

“What’s the matter, Ash?” Marika asked.

“I don't see Enji anywhere! Where is he?” Ash asked.

“Enji left early in the morning for his friend's house,” Marika answered.

“A friend's house that early? Why?” Ash asked.

“I think he didn't want to show his face in front of you,” Kai said.

“But why?” Ash asked

“That's because he admires you so much, and yesterday he behaved so rudely toward you,” Clecy replied.

“But I'm not mad at him!” Ash said.

“Yet Enji can't face you, knowing how rude his behavior was,” Marika said.

“If he doesn't want to see me, then I'm going to go and show my face to him!” Ash replied with a confident look.

“Pikaaa-pi!” Pikachu also responded, agreeing with Ash.

“Let's go! Let's explore Altus some more,” Clecy added.

“Then I will be your guide,” Marika said.

“Thanks, Marika!” Both Ash and Clecy replied.

“What do you think, Kai?” Ash asked.

“I don't mind. Since Ryan doesn't want to work yet, we don't have anything else to do for now. Plus, the Altus Festival is near, so let's enjoy ourselves a bit,” Kai replied, taking a sip of his tea.

“The Altus Festival? Sounds interesting!!” Clecy said, seeming happy.

As everyone ready themselves to depart for the Altus exploration, they headed to their rooms to pack their bags. Suddenly, Marika stopped Ash to say something.

“Ash, please wait. I want to tell you something,” Marika said.

“What is it? Is something bothering you?” Ash asked.

“Actually, I heard your argument with Ryan,” Marika told Ash.

“I feel the same way as you do about Hopplef. In fact, I wanted to choose Hopplef as my first Pokémon, but he refuses to stay with anyone. The wound in his heart is deeper than any physical pain,” Marika said.

“Deeper than any physical pain…?! I know that still I will never give up until I change his pain into relief!” Ash said, encouraging Marika.

“Still, Hopplef wants to stay alone. He never wants to feel like a burden to someone else,” Marika said, tightening her grip because she couldn't bear to see Hopplef suffering.

“Marika, thanks,” Ash replied with a smile.

“Thanks? For what?” Marika asked, seeming confused.

“Because when Ryan said Hopplef wants to choose his own master, I didn't have a specific answer at the time. I thought I'm the only one who cared about him. But now that you've told me your feelings, it motivates me to stand up for him,” Ash answered, his smile bright and unwavering.

“And I don't think he's a burden. Hopplef is the kind of Pokémon where he stays away because he cares about others. And I promise you, he's going to choose me soon.” Ash made a promise to her and took his leave.

“Now I understand why Enji idolizes you so much. It's not because you're famous; you're a light that never fades for anyone caught in the dark,” Marika thought, feeling a wave of relief after sharing her thoughts with Ash.

On the other side of the corridor, Kai listened to everything and gave a little rare smile before leaving.

**Ash’s unwavering determination gave Marika a deep sense of relief. Will he truly be able to heal this tragic little Pokémon and welcome Hopplef onto his team?

But for now, our heroes are ready to explore the Altus Region, where they will face unknown challenges, uncover deep secrets, and learn what it truly means to be a trainer.

It's just the beginning…**

TO BE CONTINUED….

Ch.13 :: Altus Region

AO3

Other Chapters

The Altus Region, regardless of other regions, is known for its nobility and elegance. It has the world's largest library and university. Altus is famous for its academic knowledge; all over the world, scholars and researchers gather at a single place to gain knowledge and skills. There was a whole city where only scholars and researchers lived, named the City of Academics.

“Wow, that was something else,” Ash said with a surprised look.

“I hope the Atlas region has a bunch of Shiny and cute Pokémons. I wanna catch them all,” Clecy said while munching on some chips.

“It's Altus, not Atlas. And stop eating now. We've already eaten a bunch of burgers at the café,” Kai replied with an irritated look.

“Altus, Atlas, whatever. And it's my stomach; I feel hungry, so I eat what I want,” Clecy replied to Kai with a teasing face.

“You….” Kai snapped.

“Okay, okay, both of you calm down,” Ash said.

“Okeei! Ash, want some chips?” Clecy said.

“Oh, thanks.” Ash and Clecy shared the snacks.

“Huhh, really, both of you…” Kai took a breath with a hopeless reaction.

“It's not like that, Kai. I'm really excited now to see how Altus gives me some tough challenges. After 2 years, I'm finally going on a new adventure. Now I'm craving a battle,” Ash said with an energetic expression.

“For your information, Altus doesn't have many Gyms and tournaments,” Kai replied. “As I said earlier, it is famous for academics and knowledge. So, mostly the citizens are foreigners, and government agencies also focus on maintaining the environment and its culture.”

“Culture and environment?! What does that mean?” Ash asked.

“Different kinds of Lakes and Forest, tallest mountains, buried ruins, and its historic structures, etc. Altus has many unique biomes and places, which makes it a nature-gifted region.” Kai showed both of them some photos on his tablet.

Both stared at the tablet screen with surprised looks. “Wow, so these are Altus's unique biomes.”

“It was considered as a blessing or a curse by nature.”

“Cursed?! What do you mean?” both asked.<br />

“Due to its uniqueness, most of the regions tried to conquer it in the past, which led to a great war and caused many innocent casualties,” Kai explained. “Altus wasn't just a land of uniqueness; it is filled with warriors' sacrifice and a harsh history.”

Many years before, it was an unnamed forbidden land where only wild Pokémon lived. But one day, a group of sea wanderers set their foot on that land and stayed for a while. But who knows? Fate had already decided their destination; the leader of the wanderers felt this place was like home and decided to stay here for a lifetime. The forest, lands, mountains, climate, Pokémon—everything was blessed with nature. The further they explored the land, the more unseen, unimaginable places were found: golden crystal caves, crimson leafs forest, purple colour lake, tallest mountain that could touch the clouds, and wild unique Pokémon.

The rumors spread all over the world about that land. At the start, everything was normal and peaceful, but greed consumed the living into a depth of unforgettable guilt. Nearby regions' kings wanted to rule this land as their territory. A free-living land now became a ruling ground for other regions rulers. In just a few years, many regions' kings ruled over different parts of that land, and each part had different names. A few more years later, that race turned into war. A war will never benefit a normal person, except if you are of the royal or noble class.

Day after day, week after week, month after month, this small land-claim war turned into a large-scale, deadly battlefield. Their only goal now was for the one who wins the war to have a rule accomplished by his own. Many innocent citizens and Pokémon lost their lives. This created a rebellion army against this chaos, and the leader who led the army had only one goal: to make this region a peaceful place. The name of this rebellion army leader was ‘Commander Svargon Altas’.

Now it has become a three-way war: one who defends their lands, one who wants to conquer the lands, and one who wants to create peace in their lands.

[2 hours later…]

After countless innocent lives were lost, the three warriors finally found their pride and accepted their loss. A few years later, the nameless land became a peaceful place for foreigners, scholars, and traders. The citizens always remember the sacrifice of those three warriors and take pride in honoring the warrior's life. Citizens called this nameless land “Altus”. The meaning of Altus metaphorically is tall, elevated and noble etc.

That's the great history of Altus.

When Kai turned his head to both Ash and Clecy, he found both had already fallen asleep.

Kai's inner frustration flared, “I... I was talking to myself for so long! Here I was telling them the history, and both of them fell asleep.”

A Few More Hours Later… Their flight landed.

“Finally! It was a really long flight,” Ash said, stretching his hands alongside Pikachu. “So, what's next, Kai?”

“First we check out, and then we move toward Professor Ryan's Lab,” Kai said, his voice deep.

“Kai, why do you look upset?” Ash tried to motivate Kai, but he ignored him.

“Don’t worry, Ash. Mr. Rude is just angry because we fell asleep when he lectured us on Altus's history,” Clecy explained.

“Don't be mad, Kai. I'm not good at history, so that's why,” Ash said to Kai.

“I'm not mad or angry. I just want to finish our mission as soon as possible; that's why I'm in a rush,” Kai replied.

“Really? But your expression says otherwise, Mr. Rude,” Clecy said.

“Shut up, and don't forget we are here for work, not for fun,” Kai snapped, and then moved toward the airport gate.

“Agh! You really are rude!” Clecy also snapped.

Ash sighed. “What do I do now, Pikachu?”<br />

“Pika-pi.” Both looked hopeless now and followed Kai.

When those three exited the gate, Ash, Pikachu, and Clecy's reactions were stunning. The scenario in front of their eyes was unbelievable: ancient, classic buildings, marble-tiled roads, and a large cathedral in the middle of the city.

“This is the main city of the Upper District, Lunae City,” Kai said.

“Upper District?” Ash asked

“Yeah, Altus is divided into three parts. The Lower District is called the Bottom Plaza, where traders, fishermen, transporters, and normal citizens live.”

“The Middle District is called the Colony Plaza, where mostly commoners live.”<br />

“Then the Upper District, the Great Plaza, where scholars, researchers, and nobles live.”

“This is the Great Plaza's 2nd district, Lunae City. The other two cities are named Nocturna and Uranica City. Those cities were named by Queens of those districts: Great Queen Luna, High-Priestess Natalia and The glory princess Unica.

Clecy ignored this and noticed a bakery where people were eating cream puffs. And said, “Let's go! First, we need to fill our bellies.”

“Shut up! We already ate our lunch, and now you want to eat more? How much can your belly handle?” Kai replied.

“I didn't ask you, Mr. Rude,” Clecy said, making a pouting face.

Then suddenly, Ash noticed a red, caterpillar-like Pokémon approaching him. Ash and Pikachu got excited by seeing the new Pokémon and got close to it. But Kai noticed and released his Scizor immediately.

“Scizor, kick that Pokémon!” Kai shouted.<br />

With Scizor's insane speed, he managed to land a solid kick before Ash could touch it. In mid-air, within a second, a huge explosion happened. Both Ash and Pikachu were shocked.

“What was that?” Ash asked.

“It was Dynopi, a Bug-type Pokémon that explodes like TNT whenever it makes contact with its target,” Kai explained.

“So if Ash had made contact with that Pokémon, it would have exploded?” Clecy asked.

“That was actually a close call. I never thought something like that could happen,” Ash said, taking a deep breath.

“But the question is, that type of Pokémon is mainly found in the Red Autuma Forest, not in cities,” Kai said, thinking about it.

Then a kid came towards them and said, “Hey! Hey, mister! That was a brutal kick! How dare you kick my Pokémon that hard?”

The speaker was an eight- or nine-year-old kid with black, messy hair and yellow eyes.<br />

“So it was you who did that?” Ash said.

“What are you talking about? I didn't do anything! It's you who did awful things to my Pokémon.”

“What did you say?” Ash was now completely angry.

“What did you hear, hoodie guy?” The kid teased Ash.

“Enough, both of you!” Kai said. “Hey kiddo, why did you do that?”

“It's none of your business, Mr. Side-character,” the kid replied.

“Side character?! What do you mean?” With an annoyed expression, Kai asked.

“Yes, you clearly heard me—a side character. I read so many comics where a side character tries to act cool and smart. It is clearly shown on your face, but in reality, you aren't."

“You little shrimp,” Kai said with annoyed looks.

“It's okay, Kai. You don't have to overreact,” Ash said, calming Kai.

“Clecy, why are you so silent? Are you okay?” Both looked at her.

She stood still for a few seconds and then crouched down and started crying. “Awwwnn, tha… that was… (continued crying).”

Ash, Pikachu, Kai, Scizor, and that kid were shocked. Cleffa came out from her Poké Ball to stop Clecy, but she didn't stop, which caused Cleffa to also start crying. Pikachu and Scizor tried to stop both of them from crying.

Ash, now completely angry, grabbed that kid's collar and said, “Hey, you! It's your fault!”

“I really didn't want to do that! It was just a prank!” The kid defended himself.

“A prank?! Because of that prank, one of my friends was scared!” Ash was mad now.

Now the scenario has become more chaotic and awkward. Clecy and Cleffa didn't stop crying; Pikachu and Scizor tried hard to stop them in a panic. Ash and that kid argued with each other, which attracted public attention. Kai felt embarrassed and used his quick thinking to calm down the situation.

“Okay!! Let's go eat some cream puffs!” Kai shouted loudly.

“Are you dumb—” the kid said.

In the next scene, all of them were eating cream puffs at the café.

“Why are you here, Shrimp” Kai asked to kid

“I'm also hungry and also I'm not the shrimp I had named.” Kid replied

“Ohh, so that little bart has an interesting name.” Kai said

“Yummy, those creampuffs was the best I ever had.” Clecy with cheerful looks

“Do you like it, Want more!” Ash asked

“Yeah, thanks ash.” Clecy replied

“How you feel now.” Ash asked to Clecy

“I'm completely fine.” Clecy answered with bright smile

“Pikaaa” pikachu also cheer up her

“She’s an angel.” Kid look at her smile

“What.!” Kai said

Kid stood up and apologised to Clecy in a formal way, “I'm terribly sorry for what I did earlier. I just like pranking others but I didn't want to get hurt. My name is Enji, he's my pokemon Dynopi. And please forgive us.”

“It's true I'm really scared but I forgive you if you have never done anything like this.” Clecy said with smile

“She's definitely an angel.” Enji blushing

“Hey, shrimp you must have apologized to us too.” Kai said

“Huh, who are you?” Enji ignore Kai

“You little shrimp.” Kai pissed of now

“If Clecy forgives you then I also forgot what you did.” Ash said, “Pika pi” Pikachu also add

“Thanks but still you look like some kind of thug, why are you hooding yourself?” Enji said

“Hey, Enji! What are you doing here?” A girl wearing a dark blue university coat, pants-skirt, long thigh-highs, and brown shoes, along with a dark blue university hat, approached Enji. Her long hair was dark blue, and her eyes were black, making her look approximately 16 or older. She angrily said, “Didn't you prank someone again?”

“Si…. Sis!!” Enji was shocked. “No, I didn't do anything!”

“Really? How can I believe you?” She pulled his ear.

“Ouch… ouch! Sis, believe me, I didn't do anything!” Enji cried.

“Excuse me,” Clecy said, stepping forward. “We've already forgiven him, so please spare him this time.”

“Don't feel bad. He always does such awful things and nonsensical pranks,” she explained.

“Sis, I already apologized to them, so let me go!”

“Hehe, you deserve it,” Kai said with a smirk.

“I'm sorry to all of you. By the way, my name is Marika, and I live in Nexon City,” Marika said.

“Nocturna City…” Kai muttered, his eyes narrowing as he gazed at Marika’s outfit. “And that uniform… It's the first-year attire for HOP University.”

“HOP University?” Ash asked, tilting his head.

“Hall of Philosophy,” Kai explained. “It’s the most prestigious university in the Altus Region, known across the world for its research.”

As Ash and Kai both studied her academic outfit, Enji jumped in front of his sister, his face red. “Hey! Stop creeping on my sister with those weird expressions!”

Marika laughed softly, ignoring her brother’s outburst. “As an apology for Enji’s behavior, I’d like to invite you all to our home for dinner tonight.”

“Hooray! A dinner invitation! Let’s go!” Clecy cheered, her eyes practically turning into sparkles.

“No, thank you,” Kai said firmly. “We have important business to attend to.”

Clecy’s face fell into a dramatic pout. “B-u-u-u-t! You’re so boring, Kai!”

“Cut it out,” Kai snapped. “We’ve already wasted too much time, and besides, how much can you possibly eat in one day?”

Enji stepped toward Clecy, fidgeting with his hands. “D-don’t… mind him… You… you should just… come to dinner alone…” He couldn’t even finish the sentence before his voice cracked from shyness.

“Thanks, but they’re my friends, so I’m staying with them!” Clecy replied with a bright, genuine smile.

She’s an angel… Enji thought, his soul practically leaving his body.

“No problem,” Marika said politely. “Come whenever you have the time. My uncle would be very happy to meet you; he’s a professor and loves talking to travelers.”

“I’d like to meet him too,” Ash said, his curiosity piqued. “What’s his name?”

“Professor Ryan,” Marika answered. “He’s the most senior professor in the district.”

Both Ash and Kai froze. The air around them seemed to turn cold.

Professor Ryan? They shared a shocked look. According to their intel, the Professor should have been miles away in the Academic District. More importantly, Ryan wasn’t just a teacher—he was a high-ranking member of the Supreme League.

“If that is the case, we accept your request,” Kai said.

On the way;

“Kai, I was wondering what kind of person Professor Ryan would be?” Ash asked.

“You'll know when you meet him,” Kai replied.

“Ugh, at least tell me something. How about the Red Autuma Forest?” Ash said.

Clecy leaned in, listening intently while Cleffa poked its head out of her bag.

“The Red Autuma Forest…” Kai showed a map on his tablet.

“First, there is the Red Autuma Forest,” Kai explained. “Every tree there is locked in a state of permanent autumn. The leaves are deep crimson and burnt orange. It’s beautiful, but the Pokémon there are territorial and volatile.”

“And the others?” Marika asked, smiling as she listened to Kai’s accurate description.

“The Golden Path Forest,” Kai continued, “where the leaves are a brilliant, shimmering yellow. It’s said that when the sun hits them, the entire forest looks like it’s made of gold. And finally, the Pale Valley Forest—a place of gray, silver-leafed trees that feel almost ghostly.”

“Gold and silver forests…” Ash whispered, his eyes widening. “Pikachu, it sounds like this region is one big adventure waiting to happen!”

“Pika-pika!”

“Just remember,” Kai added sternly, glancing at Enji, who was still trying to walk close to Clecy. “In Altus, the more beautiful the place looks, the more secrets it hides.”

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of deep violet and gold, the group made their way toward Nocturna City.

A few hours later…

The Nocturna outskirts have less crowd and houses here.

“My house is just up ahead,” Marika said, pointing toward a large, traditional wooden building. “My family runs an inn, so our living quarters are connected to it.”

They stepped through the front doors.<br />

“I'm home,” Marika said.

All of them were expecting a wholesome welcome, but instead, they were met with a bizarre sight.

A man was sprawled at the bottom of the stairs, looking like he had literally fallen down while sleeping. He was in a state of total disarray: messy hair, a wrinkled, loose T-shirt, mismatched night pants, and a single slipper on his left foot. He was snoring loudly, completely oblivious to the guests.

Ash and Marika stared at the man. They both stepped forward to help him.

“Hey mister, are you okay?” Ash asked.

Kai, however, didn’t look surprised. He walked right up to the sleeping man and delivered a sharp kick to his side.

“Get up, you lazy bum!” Kai barked. “Ryan, what are you even doing here? You’re supposed to be in the Academic District.”

The “Senior Professor” of the Supreme League groaned, slowly peeling one eye open. It was clear that Kai didn’t just know about Professor Ryan—he knew him personally.

Ryan squinted at the blurry figure above him. “Ohh… Kai…” he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.

Kai looked down at him with pure disgust. Without a word, he grabbed a Poké Ball from his belt and clicked it open. In a burst of light, a dark, menacing Houndoom appeared, its fangs glowing with embers.

“Houndoom, use Flamethrower on this idiot's face,” Kai commanded coldly.

“Wait, wait, wait!” Ash screamed, jumping between them. “Kai, this is a wooden house! Are you trying to burn the whole place down?!” Marika stood behind Ash, her hands over her mouth in a look of pure panic.

“Hey, do you want to burn my house?” Enji asked.

“Ugh… this man always makes me mad,” Kai muttered, recalling his Houndoom into its Poké Ball.

Then a little, cute, light blue, whale-like Pokémon appeared, using a Water Gun on Ryan's face.

“Whalbey, stop… I'm already awake,” Ryan said.

“Cutee!” Clecy jumped and grabbed the little Pokémon, rubbing her cheeks against it.

“You're also cute,” Enji muttered.

“Hello, I'm Eldrick S. Ryan. Nice to meet you,” Ryan said, introducing himself. His clothes were completely wet, his face was unshaven, and his hair was messy.

“Is he actually a Supreme League member?” Ash whispered to Kai.

“He may not look like it, but unfortunately, he is,” Kai said.

“I was a little tired, so I visited my cousin's inn for some rest,” Ryan said with an awkward smile.

“Uncle, why are you lying on the floor?” Marika asked with anger.

“Actually, I slipped on the stairs and ended up like this. Hahaha!” Ryan awkwardly laughed.<br />

Kai, with a stoic expression, asked, “Should I burn him?

“By the way, Ash Ketchum, pull down your hoodie to make yourself comfortable,” Ryan said casually.

“Wait… did you say Ash Ketchum?” Enji and Marika asked at the same time.

Ash pulled down his hoodie. “I feel better now.

Is… is… is he the World Champion, Ash Ketchum?!” Enji and Marika were both shocked.

“You didn't recognize him, Enji, even though you're his biggest fan?” Ryan said.

“I just couldn't believe it. I mean, how does a World Champion wander around so casually?” Enji asked with a stunned look.

“That's why I put my hoodie on,” Ash said with a smile.

I did terrible things and showed rude behavior to him earlier. I'm done, Enji thought, falling into deep despair.

“Did you say, biggest fan?” Clecy asked.

“Enji is the biggest fan of Ash Ketchum; he wants to become just like him. A most dedicated Pokémon trainer. Ash was his inspiration,” Marika said. “But I just can't believe he is actually here.”

“Sis, stop it! I didn't tell you anything like this…” Enji shouted, his face completely red, as he rushed toward his room. “Don't follow me!”

“Did I do something wrong?” Ash asked with a confused look.

“Are you actually dumb, or do you just act like it?” Kai said.

“Don't feel bad. He’s just nervous,” Marika apologized.

“Don't worry, kids usually behave like that,” Ryan said.

“Please don't stand here. Have some rest. I will bring dinner to you all,” Marika said, welcoming them.

“Take some rest, World Champion. You have a lot of work to do,” Ryan said.

Everyone went to their rooms, and Marika led them.

“Let me take a nap too,” Ryan mumbled, about to leave.

“Where is Big Bro?” Kai said, his tone cold and deep.

“Ughhhh, he does whatever he wants. No one knows where he is. By the way…” Ryan was about to say something, but he stopped.

“What!?” Kai asked.

“Nothing. Take some rest, because no one knows what will happen tomorrow, so enjoy your present completely.” After saying that, Ryan took his leave.

“What do you mean?” Kai asked.

“Enough! I'm on my day off. Let me rest.” Ryan replied

“You…” Kai was pissed off.

All of this scenario, their conversation, and everything else was seen by someone from the attic.

A Pokémon? Or something else?

What challenges will our group face? Let's see in the next chapter, because from now on, the actual Altus Region arc begins.

To be continued….

Ch.12 :: Glimmer of Innocence

At the International Airport of Kanto,

Our heroes finally arrived at Kanto International Airport to depart for a new region at the request of the Pokémon Association. Ash Ketchum, the current World Champion of the Monarch League, and Kai, the Association agent whose background remains mysterious, walked through the terminal.

“So, we’re finally here. Let me check the schedule of our flight first,” Kai said, his eyes scanning the crowds. He turned to Ash with a sharp glare. “Also, try to hide your face with your jacket hood.”

“Why?” Ash asked, looking confused.

Before Ash or Pikachu could even think about it, the sound of a hundred footsteps rushing toward them filled the air.

“Hey! Look! It’s the World Champion!”

“Yes! It’s Ash Ketchum from Kanto!”

“Hi! Can I get your autograph?”

“Hey, I’m your biggest fan!”

“Can you tell me about your Pokémon?”

“Look, it’s Pikachu! So cute!”

In an instant, a massive crowd gathered, surrounding Ash and Pikachu like a tidal wave. Fans, travelers, and kids with Poké Balls all pushed forward, trying to get a glimpse of the legend.

Kai’s eyes narrowed as he saw cameras in the distance. “Oh, it’s the news reporters. This is problematic.”

Quickly, he reached for a Poké Ball. “Houndoom, use a smokescreen!”

Thick, black smoke billowed out, blinding the reporters and the fans. In the confusion, Kai grabbed Ash by the back of his jacket and hauled him through the haze. Without being noticed by anyone, he pulled them into a nearby public restroom corridor and locked the main door.

At a nearby ticket counter, a young girl stood quietly with a Cleffa tucked in her arms. While everyone else was looking into the center of the smoke, she was the only one who noticed two figures slipping through a side door.

She looked down at her Pokémon, then back at the departing figures with a clever glint in her eyes. “Did you see that, Cleffa?” she whispered. “They actually called him the World Champion... how interesting.”

“Clef?” the little Pokémon tilted its head curiously.

The girl adjusted her cap and gave a small, confident smirk. “Let’s go. I think our trip just got a lot more exciting.”

In the restroom corridor:

“Phew, that was a close call,” Ash said, taking a relieved breath. “Thanks for your help, Houndoom!”

Houndoom growled with gratitude.

“You should thank me. It's good that there wasn't a bigger crowd,” Kai said, glaring at Ash. “Aren't you taking any precautions? We almost got into huge trouble!”

“I almost forgot about this! So many fans got excited when they saw me,” Ash replied, rubbing the back of his neck with an awkward smile.

Kai gave him a stoic look. “That's why I hate Champions. Those celebrity acts always make me uncomfortable.”

“Sorry, sorry!” Ash said, apologizing with a nervous chuckle.

Kai sighed. “I never thought we would almost run into news reporters.”

Ash asked, “Is there a problem with reporters?”

Kai replied, “The Association hasn't announced anything about these systems yet. So this is a top-secret task that must be carried out without any media attention.”

“So that's why the World Champion slipped through the crowd,” a girl's voice said from behind, surprising them.

Kai asked in a surprised tone, “Who are you? And how do you know we're here?”

[ The unknown girl had lavender-colored eyes and a short, boyish, curly-banged hairstyle. Her attire consisted of a dark purple skirt with a white top underneath featuring mini puff sleeves, along with a dark newsboy cap, knee-high socks, and trainer shoes.]

In a light, sweet voice, she said, “Cuteee! Is that Pikachu?” Ignoring Kai entirely, she approached Pikachu and gently rubbed his cheeks, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Ash stiffened. “Hey, careful! If you rub Pikachu's cheeks like that, he'll give you a shock—!” Ash stopped mid-sentence as Pikachu actually looked comfortable and relaxed.

“How?!” Ash exclaimed, surprised by her action. “Pikachu usually gets irritated easily and uses Thunderbolt, but now he looks so happy!”

The girl replied, “It's all about your intentions and approach. Pikachu already understood that my inner motives are harmless and friendly.”

“Wow, I never thought someone stranger could make Pikachu's comfortable so easily!” Ash said, looking thoroughly impressed.

Kai stood motionless, unable to accept being ignored. Taking a deep breath, he asked again, “Hey, you! What are you doing here? This is the male restroom area!”

The girl didn't respond to his question. Ash then asked her the same thing in a polite tone, “By the way, why are you here? It's the male restroom area.”

The girl answered, “I heard you're the World Champion, so I followed you because we wanted to see what the World Champion looks like!”

Ash asked, “We? Is someone else here with you?”

The girl answered, “Yeah, me and my Cleffi!” She showed off her cute, puffy little Pokémon, Cleffa.

“A Cleffa! But its color looks a little different,” Ash noted.

“Amazing!” the girl said excitedly. “Most people can't spot the difference at first glance because it's a very pale difference in color. Not everyone can tell if it's shiny or not!”

“Why you...” Kai growled at her in anger. “Hey, you strange girl, if you ignore me again, the consequences will be bad!”

“What will you do?” the girl replied, pouting. “I heard about your secret mission, and if you try anything, I'll tell everyone that the World Champion is hiding here!”

The unknown girl threatened them, her innocent expression from a few seconds ago turning into a playful, mischievous smirk.

Ash and Pikachu were left completely speechless. What do we do now that our top-secret task has been exposed?!

Kai struggled to control his temper. “You shouldn't eavesdrop on official matters, you weirdo!”

“Huh? You called me a weirdo?!” The girl snapped angrily. “By the way, these are ears, and they are meant to hear things, Mr. Cool Act!”

Kai felt insulted upon hearing this. “What do you mean, 'cool act'?! You shouldn't label people like that!”

“I don't care,” the girl replied arrogantly, turning her nose up.

Pissed off by her arrogant behavior, Kai took a step forward. Ash stepped in front of him and said, “Calm down, Kai! She's just making fun of you.”

“Now what should we do? She knows about our mission,” Ash said thoughtfully.

“What else? There is no one here except the two of us, so let's deal with her,” Kai said coldly.

“And how are you going to deal with me?” the girl asked, crossing her arms.

“For interfering with an official secret mission, I have every right to eliminate the obstacle,” Kai said, stepping closer to her.

Ash held his breath and asked, “That's a joke, right?”

Kai turned his head, his tone sounding heavily menacing. “Do I look like I'm joking?”

“Hey, what are you going to do to me?!” the girl asked, suddenly looking frightened.

“Why are you flinching? Everything is going to be just fine,” Kai said, slowly extending his hand toward her. Ash, Pikachu, and Houndoom felt the tension rise, but stayed still.

She looked terrified. “Hey, what are you doing?! I was just kidding! I was just kiddin—!” She suddenly burst into loud tears. “WAAAAH! WAAAAAH!”

Ash and Kai panicked.

“Hey! Hey, stop it! We aren’t going to do anything to you!” Ash is trying to calm her down.

“Hey, stop crying!” Kai shouted at her, which only made her cry louder.

Ash yelled back at Kai, “Stop it, Kai! You're scaring her!”

“What do you mean?! I'm just trying to make her quiet!” Kai defended himself.

“Awwwww! Look, he's yelling at me again!” Even her Cleffa started crying.

The situation had turned awkwardly hilarious. Ash and the Pokémon trying to calm her down. Finally, Ash had an idea. “Okay! Let’s go get something to eat!”

“What?!” Kai snapped. “Do you think everyone thinks like you in a situation like this?!”

The girl stopped crying instantly. “Let’s eat burgers and fries, too!”

“Okay! Let’s eat burgers and fries! Yes!” Ash cheered, pumping his fist.

“Pika-pi!”

Kai stared at them, his face turning stoic once more. “Maybe some people really do share the same brain cells…”

At the airport cafeteria:

“That's yummy!” Clecy said with a delighted smile, enjoying her meal.

Ash added with a grin, “Eat as much as you want!”

“What a ridiculous situation,” Kai muttered, staring at them. “A few seconds ago she was threatening us, and now they both eat like little kids.”

“Hey... Why are you making such a disgusting face at me?” Clecy asked with a muffled voice, her cheeks stuffed with burger.

“Eat first, then talk,” Kai said irritably.

“Ignore him,” Ash replied, also talking with his mouth full. “He’s just trying to act cool.”

“I said, eat first, then talk!” Kai snapped, before pausing. “Wait... did you say 'again'? That I 'try to act cool'?”

“Then why did you just order a black coffee with no sugar?” Ash and Pikachu gave him a sarcastic, knowing look.

“Enough! I like black coffee!”

“Then why don't you drink it, Mr. Sugarless Black Coffee Cool Guy?” Clecy teased, giggling.

Kai took a sip, trying to ignore them, while Ash and Clecy gazed at him with intense curiosity. “Stop staring at me like that!”

“He’s definitely acting cool,” Clecy whispered to Ash.

“Who knows,” Ash whispered back, chuckling.

“ENOUGH!” Kai yelled, his patience wearing thin.

Clecy ignored his outburst completely. “I'm full! Now let me introduce myself properly.”

“We never asked for your introduction,” Kai said flatly.

“It's not for you. It's for the person who treated me to a friendly meal,” Clecy said, puffing out her cheeks.

“For your information, I'm the one who's paying the bill,” Kai muttered, shaking his head.

“Forget about him,” Ash said with a warm smile. “My name is Ash Ketchum, and this is my partner Pikachu.”

“Pi-ka!” Pikachu cheerfully greeted her, waving a paw.

“This young, charismatic girl's name is Clecy! I'm 15 years old. I love cute, shiny Pokémon, and I want to catch them all!”

“Charismatic?! Wow. Anyone who acts like a child isn't charismatic, they're just childish,” Kai muttered between sips of his coffee.

“I don't need your approval! You're the one trying to act cool, even though you aren't,” Clecy replied, sticking her tongue out.

“Say whatever you want. But remember, you're just an obstacle to us,” Kai said, staring at her with a cold, serious gaze that instantly silenced her.

Ash asked, looking at Kai, “So you were actually serious about that? I thought you were just teasing her back in the restroom.”

“I do plenty of things you wouldn't expect,” Kai replied quietly.

“Don't worry about him. He's just short-tempered, but in reality, he would never hurt anyone,” Ash said, comforting Clecy with a gentle smile.

“How can you be so sure?” Kai muttered.

“I'm not scared of you! I'm just... protecting myself,” Clecy said, pointing a finger at Kai.

“Whatever you say,” Kai replied smoothly, a faint smirk appearing on his face.

Clecy crossed her arms angrily. “I curse you! May you never find a girlfriend!”

“I don't want one anyway,” Kai stated simply.

Just then, a female cafe staff member handed them the bill along with a folded piece of paper directly to Kai, then quickly blushed and rushed back to her work.

Everyone looked confused for a second, then Clecy spoke up. “Hey Ash, look! She was totally blushing when she gave Mr. Cool Guy that note!” Clecy whispered excitedly.

“What does that mean?” Ash asked, looking lost.

“It’s a love letter, Ash!” Clecy whispered loudly.

“A love letter?! No wonder he always acts so cool,” Ash whispered back to Clecy.

“I can hear both of you perfectly, you idiots,” Kai muttered with an annoyed twitch in his eye.

Inside his head, Kai was actually panicking. *How am I supposed to handle this?! he thought. If I ignore it, I'll hurt her feelings. If I say something stupid, these two will never let me hear the end of it! He calculated every possibility within five seconds.*

Finally, he opened the note. His expression shifted to total shock for a split second. He quickly scribbled something on the paper, left it on the table with the money for the bill, and stood up. “Let’s move.”

He headed toward the departure gate without looking back.

“Hey, Mister Cool! What did the letter say? Tell me!” Clecy asked, dying of curiosity as she ran after him.

Kai ignored her.

Then Ash joined in, grinning. “Come on, Kai! Was it really a love letter or what?”

“I just wrote that the coffee was good and that I’m busy right now,” Kai said flatly.

“Ehhh?! You’re so boring! You should have at least given her your phone number,” Clecy said with a disappointed sigh.

“I’m not interested in that stuff,” Kai replied. “And besides, why are you following us? Where is your bag and stuff?”

“I don't have any luggage,” Clecy replied.

“What do you mean?” Ash asked, stopping in his tracks.

Clecy replied sadly, “My bag got stolen earlier... that's why I followed you guys in the first place.”

Kai stepped forward and pointed. “Look, those are airport security guards. Ask them for help, because we aren't police officers.”

Clecy pouted at him angrily. “I'm not asking you! Ash, even though I have nothing, you gave me such a friendly meal. I want to repay my debt to you.”

“Again, I'm the one who paid for your food,” Kai said, rolling his eyes.

Ash said, “Clecy, but you don't have a passport, right? How can you travel with us?”

Clecy replied, pulling a small document from her pocket, “I still have my passport on me, so that's not a problem!”

Ash thought for a second. Looking at her innocent, pleading face, he replied with a warm smile, “Okay, let's go together!”

“Wait!” Kai interrupted, stepping between them. “She's a complete stranger to us! How can you just agree without my consent?”

Clecy answered proudly, “I'm no stranger! I'm Ash's friend, and I already introduced myself!”

“Quiet,” Kai said coldly.

Ash looked at Kai and said, “Kai, we don't have any other choice. She knows about our secret task, and she has nowhere else to go. How can I just ignore her situation?”

“I completely disagree with your logic,” Kai replied sternly. “We are on an official Association quest, not a regular fun adventure.”

“I know that, but we still can't just leave her. Like you said, let's not waste time on unnecessary arguments,” Ash said, his determined gaze looking directly into Kai's eyes.

Kai let out a heavy sigh. “Huh... I guess we really have no choice.”

“Great! Then let's go!” Clecy cheered, stepping past him.

Ash leaned in and said to Kai in a low voice, “Back at the restroom, I already realized you're actually a nice person who wouldn't hurt anyone. That's why I didn't stop you earlier.”

Kai froze for a moment. “I'm not nice, I'm just...” Without finishing his sentence, he turned away and walked ahead.

With that, Clecy—a bright, innocent, and cheerful girl—officially joined the group. The trio was now complete and ready for the upcoming adventures waiting to unfold.

Their next stop: The Altus Region…

To Be Continued…

Pokémon Supreme AO3

Pokémon Supreme

Ch.11 :: Glimpse of Hope

Pokémon Supreme

After taking a short rest, both our heroes finally arrived at Viridian City.

Ash limped along, letting his arms hang down loosely. “Ehhh... I'm exhausted, I don't have any energy left.”

Pikachu lay completely flat on his back, lacking the strength to speak clearly, murmuring in broken words, “Ika- chhhh...”

Beside him, Kai, who still maintained his cool aura, said, “You're the World Champion and you're young—at least walk decently.”

“Ahhhggg! Can young people not be exhausted?!” Ash snapped. “Also, how much older are you to talk like that?!”

“For your information, we're the same age, yet I have way more stamina than you. What a shame,” Kai sighed.

“It's your fault! We battled along the whole path! More than half the distance we covered in less than two hours. When I usually arrive in Viridian, it takes at least more than half a day!” Ash said.

Ash muttered under his breath, ‘But that is a different story... A group of Spearow was chasing me, so I took a stranger's bicycle and ran away. Later, that stranger became my best friend.’

Kai ignored him and said, “It was to save our time. Imagine wasting a whole day just to travel.”

“For your information, there's a bus from Pallet Town to Viridian City!” Ash pointed out.

“If we had taken the bus, then I would never be able to defeat the World Champion,” Kai replied, teasing him.

“Ehhh?! Who says you defeated us?!” Ash replied.

“Piivvvkaaa!” Pikachu added, trying to raise his left paw in a victory pose.

Kai chuckled, “My ears are fine. You clearly said, ‘You win.’ So that makes me the winner.”

“It's because you started giving mathematics lectures! My head couldn't process anything!” Ash said.

“Forget it for now... I'm hungry and I want to take a nap,” Ash groaned.

“Let's take some rest and clean ourselves at the Pokémon Center,” Kai said, dusting his clothes.

“Thanks to that man who gave us a lift,” Ash, in a tired tone, remembered how, after the battle, neither of them had any strength left to move, their legs trembling as they walked until a farmer's truck noticed them and offered a ride.

“Hell no, I'm not thanking him,” Kai said. “He charged us more than the bus tickets!”

Ash ignored him, while Kai also saved his remaining energy to reach the Pokémon Center.

The next day, at the Viridian City Pokémon Centre, after getting enough rest and leaving their Pokémon to recover, Ash and Kai decided to eat breakfast.

“After resting for a whole day, my legs still hurt,” Ash groaned, stretching.

“Look how weak you've become. You should thank me for yesterday's warm-up,” Kai said.

“Thanks,” Ash said simply.

Kai was surprised by how easily Ash showed gratitude. He stared at him and asked, “Is something wrong? Because I thought you didn't easily thank others.”

Ash smiled, “It's not what you think. I'm grateful to you because, after a long break, that was an excellent experience. Pikachu feels the same way, too.”

“Pikaaa!” Pikachu cheered in agreement.

Kai took a sip of his coffee. “Nice to hear that. I'm not interested in babysitting a depressed World Champion for the whole journey.”

“I still cannot believe how much you changed suddenly,” Ash asked, looking closely at him.

“What kind of image did you create about me?” Kai said.

“Honestly? I thought from your first appearance that you were rude and full of attitude,” Ash replied.

“You judge everyone by their appearance—how shallow you are,” Kai replied, teasing slightly.

Ash rubbed his neck and laughed, “Hehe!!”

“Sigh. You could have easily defeated us with your Fire-type Pokémon, but you didn't. Why?” Kai asked.

“Actually, most of my Pokémon are staying at Prof. Oak's lab, and some of them are spread all over Kanto to help others,” Ash replied, remembering his friends. “I have so many different kinds of the best Pokémon.”

“So that's why you only used Pikachu. I thought, as always, you started a new journey with only him,” Kai replied.

“Not always,” Ash said, then suddenly stopped in surprise. “Hey, how do you know I always start my new journey with Pikachu only? I never told anyone about this!”

“It's simple. I looked over your data. In whichever region you explore, Pikachu is always on the list,” Kai showed his tablet screen, where all of Ash's data was displayed.

“What?! Pi-ka?!” Both Ash and Pikachu yelled loudly.

“Lower your volume! You're drawing attention!” Kai hissed.

“Sorry, but I'm shocked because all of our data is available here?!” Ash asked, staring at the screen.

“Not just yours—every Champion, Gym Leader, and registered trainer's data is here,” Kai replied.

“Can anyone access it?” Ash asked.

“Nope. This is officially private data—only authorized members can access it. It requires a password and high-level security details,” Kai replied.

“But still, having everyone's personal data stored like this is risky for them,” Ash said, concerned.

“It's not some local website that you can easily access,” Kai answered. “This is the official Pokémon Association security site—not even elite hackers can enter it.”

“Also, most of the Champions act like celebrities, which means anyone can collect data about them and upload it online anyway,” Kai added.

“Does it have Emperor data, too?” Ash asked with sudden curiosity.

“No, there's no data available—not even their names,” Kai said. “Forget about the Pokémon Association; the Supreme League doesn't even know who they are, except for the Emperor System members themselves. That's why this quest is happening.”

Ash was surprised upon hearing this. “How mysterious those trainers are!! Even higher authorities don't know about them!”

“That’s the reason the Emperor System has been hidden from the world for several decades,” Kai replied.

After finishing their breakfast, Kai slid his high-tech tablet back into his bag and stood up from the table.

“We've stayed too long in Viridian City,” Kai said, adjusting his jacket.

As both were about to leave the Pokémon Center, they overheard some trainers talking about yesterday. “Hey, did you also notice anything during your travel?”

Another Trainer replied, “Yeah, looks like some wild Pokémon went on a rampage and fought against each other.”

Ash and Pikachu listened curiously, so they asked Nurse Joy at the counter about it.

Nurse Joy answered, with tension clearly visible on her face, “Didn't you know? On Route 1 to Viridian City, the whole path was destroyed yesterday morning. Some trainers say they saw lightning strikes and metal slashes. What a disastrous battle between two wild Pokémon!”

Ash and Pikachu smiled awkwardly, completely speechless. They realized that during the battle against Kai, neither side had cared about their surroundings and had gone all out.

“I'm sure something didn't go well,” Kai said from behind. “What kind of monstrous Pokémon could do that? I hope the officers find them and stop their rampage.”

Ash and Pikachu thought to themselves, It was us who did that! And look at how easily he acts like it's none of our business!

With a farewell greeting, Kai said, “May we leave now? I hope those rampaging Pokémon stop their madness.”

Nurse Joy replied with a bright smile, “Have a nice journey!”

Once they were back on the path, Ash finally asked, “I never thought you were such a cover-up expert.”

Kai replied, “It's better if we stay out of these situations. That would only create unnecessary problems for our task.”

“You're right, but I still feel bad about what we did,” Ash replied, scratching his cheek.

“Those small matters are just obstacles, so just forget about them and move forward,” Kai said sincerely.

“Kai, can I ask you something?” Ash said.

“What's been bothering you since yesterday?” Kai asked, already knowing Ash wanted to pry into something.

“I wonder if it's okay to ask,” Ash said. “The person who defeated the Karkus forces at the Lake of Sunset two years ago... is he also an Emperor?”

Kai answered, “Who knows? Maybe he's an Emperor, or maybe not.” Kai continued, “There are so many mysterious and hidden Pokémon users who are far stronger than any ranking.”

“An unknown person who wears black round goggles, has orange hair, and uses a Fire-type Pokémon...” Ash said in a serious, thoughtful tone.

Kai stopped, turned around, and looked at Ash, asking seriously, “How do you know about that trainer?”

“One of the Karkus members who was present at that location clarified everything during interrogation,” Ash replied.

Kai glared at Ash intensely for a few seconds before looking away, “Let's focus on our motive. This is distracting us.”

Soon, both of them arrived at the Viridian City metro station.

“We'll take the metro to save time. Then we'll have to go to the Kanto Region International Airport; there's a flight for the Altus Region,” Kai said.

Both took a seat on the train. Kai looked back at his high tech tablet screen and said, “I heard news that the Viridian City Gym has completely shut down.”

Ash replied, “There's no trainer qualified for this Gym. Previously, Gary was qualified, but then he discontinued.”

“I thought you also applied for the selection exam,” Kai said, looking up.

“I tried, but now the rules regarding Gym Leaders have changed,” Ash answered. “There's an age restriction—only those above 18 can apply. There are written and physical exams too, and even after clearing those tests, your profile still needs to be completely clean, along with many other official requirements.”

Kai nodded slightly, “Considering this, the Indigo Association is dead serious about their rules and policies now.”

Ash stared out the train window, “That's all because of the Karkus incident... since everything started right here.”

Their conversation continued, and Kai asked, “Why do you want to find that unknown trainer with the orange hair?”

Ash tightened his fist and looked down, “Because I made a promise to my friend that I would find out where Red is and get answers as to why he betrayed Kanto—why he didn't trust his own friends.”

Hearing this, Kai said in a chill tone, “So it's better if you forget about him and move on.”

Ash furiously whipped his head around to glare at Kai, asking in a deeply serious tone, “And why do you say that?”

Sighing, Kai answered, “I think you don't know what would happen if Red were to return to his friends.” Kai coldly glared at Ash, “He would be taken into custody by the authorities, and his judgment would begin.”

“I know that,” Ash said. “In a previous conference with the Pokémon Association, they considered him an S-rank criminal and wanted to execute him.”

“If you know that, then why do you want to bring Red back?” Kai asked.

Ash replied, “Because it's not just me—the people of Pallet Town, his Kanto's friends, and others still believe that Red is hiding something. He never wanted to hurt us. There's a reason behind all his actions, and I want to learn the truth from him.”

“So basically, you and your friends still consider Red to be innocent,” Kai noted.

“It depends on his answers. Regardless, Red is our friend, and I will save him,” Ash stated firmly.

Kai replied, “If you consider him a friend, you should leave him hidden for the rest of his life.”

“And why should I abandon my friend?!” Ash exclaimed.

“Ash Ketchum, remember your position. This isn't a battle against typical opponents—it's direct disobedience of rules and regulations,” Kai explained, continuing smoothly. “You still don't understand why the League authorities directly classified Red as S-rank.”

“Because he stood against the region and supported a terrorist organization!” Ash argued.

“That's just the surface-level reason. But when you look deeper, you'll understand the real reason,” Kai said.

“So what is the real reason behind the authorities' declaration?!” Ash demanded.

“They used Red as a scapegoat to pin all the blame for the incident on him and cover up their own mistakes,” Kai replied.

Ash abruptly stood up, unable to believe what he was hearing. “What are you saying?!”

Kai continued calmly, “I’m not going to go too deeply into this, but the harsh truth is that the authorities already knew the Karkus Incident—the event that devastated the world—was going to happen. Yet, they remained silent until it turned into a complete catastrophe.”

The metro felt suddenly heavy, suffocating, and silent. Ash stood frozen, his eyes wide as he stared at Kai, who didn't even flinch under the weight of his own words.

“They knew... about everything?!” Ash whispered, his voice trembling with a mix of shock and rising anger. “You're saying the Association already knew that kind of devastation was going to happen, and yet they didn't even try to prevent it?!”

“Calm down and sit,” Kai said quietly, not looking up. “You are drawing attention.”

Pikachu tugged hard on Ash’s sleeve, letting out a soft, worried murmur, “Pika... pi...”

Ash slowly sank back into his seat. He muttered in disbelief, “How is that even possible? The authorities used Red as a scapegoat to cover up their own ignorance...”

“It's the most common way to hide their mistakes. The high-ranking officials choose someone to blame, and it works,” Kai stated coldly.

“So... there's no way to save Red?!” Ash asked, his voice losing all hope.

“Pi-ka... pi...” Pikachu drooped his ears, matching Ash's gloom.

Kai looked at Ash, who was struggling to process the truth. Letting out a deep sigh, Kai muttered, “Huh... there might be one way.”

Ash looks at Kai. Kai continued, “I’m not completely sure, but the Supreme League might be able to do something.”

“And how could they save Red?” Ash asked.

Kai explained, “I'm not entirely sure, as I said, but I heard the Emperors are the biggest issue for the Association. They can't ignore their demands—especially the new generation of Emperors, because they'll know everything about how the Leagues operate.”

Ash was confused. “I don't understand any of this... How do the Emperor System and the Supreme League even interfere with the Pokémon Association?”

Kai replied. “I'm not sure about all the details—I've only heard rumors. In the previous Emperor selection about a decade ago, the ones who decided to temporarily sever all connections were the Emperors themselves.”

Ash gasping in shock, “What?! Those Emperors were the ones who made the decision to shut down their own system?! But why?!”

Kai stared out the metro window. “I don't know. It might just be a rumor, because that entire event was wiped from history. What really happened is something normal people will never be allowed to know.”

“An erased event...” Ash repeated, the words sounding heavy on his tongue.

“If a single Emperor System member takes full responsibility for Red, there's a small chance his criminal record could be wiped clean,” Kai concluded firmly.

Ash sat back, processing Kai's words as the metro hummed softly along the tracks.

“So if an Emperor steps up for him, Red can be cleared...” Ash said, a faint glimmer of hope returning to his eyes. “Then I just have to find an Emperor who knows the truth.”

Kai let out a faint, dismissive huff. “Don't make it sound so simple, World Champ. Emperors aren't benevolent heroes waiting to solve your personal problems. They operate outside the law for a reason.”

Before Ash could respond, the train came to a smooth stop. Kai grabbed his bag and stood up. “Let's go. Our stop is here.”

Kanto International Airport — Departure Terminal

Outside the gate, Ash broke the silence and said, “Kai... thank you.”

Kai looked at him in confusion. “Why are you thanking me again?”

Ash replied with a gentle smile, “Because I almost lost all hope, but you helped me find my courage again.”

Kai glared at him, turning his head away. “I only did it because I'm not interested in traveling with a depressed and sad person. It's for my own convenience.”

Ash let out a bright laugh. “Thanks! You're a really good friend!” With that, Ash extended his arm for a fist bump.

Kai asked, staring at Ash's closed hand, “What is that?”

Ash grinned. “It's a fist bump! Have you never done this before?”

Kai scoffed lightly. “I'm not interested in that kind of stuff. Besides, let's move—we've already wasted so much time.” With that, Kai ignored Ash's fist bump and kept walking.

Ash chased after him, calling out, “Hey, at least say that we're friends!”

Kai replied smoothly, “I'm your companion, not your friend.”

As both headed inside the airport, a faint, hidden smile glimmered on Kai's face. A new friendship had officially begun, and the most challenging journey of Ash's life was about to unfold.

To Be Continued…

Chapter.10 :: Duel At Route 1 (Ash vs Kai)

AO3

An unexpected challenge from Kai at their very first meeting on Route 1 left Ash completely baffled. Ash tried to refuse, but also Kai refused to step back.

“I'm not gonna repeat myself again. Bring out your best Pokémon, World Champ,” Kai said, pointing a standard Poké Ball straight toward Ash.

“Kai, I don't understand,” Ash replied, his voice turning dead serious. “I'm not interested in unnecessary fights.”

“If you don't step up, then I'll make the first move,” Kai declared. He threw the Poké Ball forward into the morning air. “Cut through everything that stands in your way, Scizor!”

With sharp dual metal claws and gleaming red armor, Scizor appeared in a flash of white light, locking its hunting eyes onto its opponent. Scizor stood proud, its steel metallic skin shining in the early sun.

“Scizor, huh? I expected something like this from you, Kai. It really matches your personality,” Ash said.

“I didn't ask for your opinion,” Kai rudely replied.

Pikachu stepped forward, his red cheeks sparking with excitement to go head-to-head against the Steel-type.

Ash smirked slightly. “Fine! I accept your challenge. Let's show them what happens when someone underestimates us!”

“Nice speech. Let's see how well you prove it! Scizor, Metal Claw!” Without wasting a single second, Kai commanded Scizor to launch the first strike.

“Zero patience, huh? Okay then! Pikachu, block it with Iron Tail!” Ash called out.

Pikachu hopped into the air, using his momentum to block the incoming dashed Metal Claw with a tail coated in hardened steel.

Clink!

A sharp metallic sound vibrated through the air as the two Steel-type attacks clashed. Both Pokémon were pushed backward from the impact, but without a single flinch, Scizor immediately lunged forward with a flurry of Metal Claws. Pikachu didn't step back either—with every jump and hop, his glowing tail parried the incoming strikes.

Clink! Clank! Clink!

“Pikachu, step back!” Ash ordered.

Pikachu leaped backward, sliding smoothly across the dirt path. Both Ash and Pikachu smirked.

“Now, how about a taste of some electricity? Thunderbolt!”

Pikachu let loose a wave of electricity, crackling randomly across the path to try and paralyze Scizor.

Kai looked completely unimpressed. “Boring.”

Scizor dodged every thread of electricity with immense speed and sharp reflexes. Closing the distance between itself and Pikachu in a blur, Scizor raised a Metal Claw. Pikachu prepared to block it with his tail, but it was a decoy! Scizor shifted its momentum with absolute control, swinging around to land a heavy kick straight into Pikachu's side.

The blow sent Pikachu sideways and slamming him hard against a nearby tree!

Ash's eyes widened in surprise. “Pikachu! Are you alright?!”

Pikachu tried to regain his footing, but Scizor was already upon him with incredible speed, swinging a brutal Metal Claw. The strike hit with enough raw power to shatter the tree trunk completely!

As the dust cleared, Scizor realized Pikachu had already dodged the heavy blow.

“Using a springboard motion with your tail to push yourself backward at the exact right millisecond... quite impressive,” Kai said, a slight nod of acknowledgement escaping him.

“It's not just your Scizor that has quick reflexes! Pikachu and I have been through countless intense battles, pushing us to constantly adapt,” Ash replied.

Both Pokémon stood tall once again on opposite sides of the path, ready for the next command.

Ash and Kai turned their heads, their sharp, determined eyes locking onto each other. In a quiet, matching rhythm, both said at the exact same time:

“It's Just The Beginning.”

Both Pokémon clashed and countered each incoming attack. Their speed and dodging made the ground tremble, creating vibrations that could be felt through the spacious open plains of Route 1. Their rapid movements created thick screens of dust. Inside the dust, electric sparks and metal slashes clashed at a continuously fast pace. With an immense, heavy impact, both Pokémon pushed themselves back.

“This Scizor is way tougher and faster than we thought, Pikachu!” Ash said, looking impressed as he started to enjoy the battle.

“As I expected, this Pikachu is way different from anyone else's,” Kai noted, also secretly enjoying the battle.

With a deep breath, both trainers called out to their Pokémon, “Let’s go all out!”

“Scizor, Swords Dance!” Kai commanded. Scizor boosted its attack power and gained speed to get closer to its opponent.

“Pikachu, use Thunderbolt!” Ash commanded. To stop its immense speed, Pikachu unleashed a wide-range Thunderbolt that ripped through the dirt.

Scizor avoided every lightning strike while closing the distance.

Ash gave Kai a mischievous grin. As Scizor landed its claw on Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon disappeared!

“Substitute?!” Kai exclaimed.

As the Substitute Pikachu vanished, the real Pikachu appeared on the opposite side of Scizor and struck it directly with a Thunderbolt.

Quickness isn't just Scizor's specialty, Ash thought with a confident smile. It's hard to dodge a Thunderbolt from behind when you're caught off guard!

He used wide-range thunder strikes to obscure the view, then leaped right along his own lightning path to reach the opposite side and attack Scizor, Kai analyzed in his mind, thoroughly impressed. But that's still nothing for us!

As Pikachu unleashed another powerful attack, Scizor spread its wings, charged a brief Hyper Beam in its claws, and fired it against the ground to act as a mini thruster, boosting its dodge speed enough to avoid Pikachu's attack.

“Using an unfinished Hyper Beam as a jet boost to slide away easily?” Ash said, a little surprised by Scizor's clever maneuver.

Using the Hyper Beam thrusters again and its wings for steering, Scizor easily dodged every incoming Thunderbolt.

“We didn't get stronger just by training and pushing our limits,” Kai said calmly. “That's why we decided to master speed and reflexes instead of relying only on brute physical strength. Scizor and I trained every day to achieve these sharp reflexes and create these boosting techniques.”

Scizor closed in on Pikachu before he could react to defend himself. Landed a heavy kick that sent Pikachu flying into the grass. Pikachu slid across the ground, using his tail to brake and instantly regain his stance.

“Defense Curl to reduce the impact, huh?” Kai observed. Pikachu had used Defense Curl split-seconds before the kick connected.

“Scizor, Shadow Ball!” Kai commanded.

“Pikachu, Electro Ball!” Ash called out.

Both powerful spherical attacks collided in midair, creating a mini explosion. Out of the side of the blast, Scizor increased its speed and used Lunge. Pikachu deflected the strike with Iron Tail. Again, the heavy impact pushed both Pokémon far backward. Now, both Pokémon were chasing each other across the wide plains of Route 1.

The battle between Ash and Kai had turned into a high-speed chase.

“Pikachu, charge!” Ash ordered.

“Don’t let him charge! Scizor, use Quick Attack!” Kai interrupted.

“Ohh, let me finish my sentence—I meant Discharge!” Ash smirked with a playful look.

Pikachu’s high-voltage discharge erupted in all directions. Scizor, who had closed in, fell right into the electric trap and took a heavy shock. But the Steel-type Pokémon refused to flinch.

“Now, Night Slash!” Kai said sharply.

Ash was a little surprised, thinking, Even after taking a direct hit from Discharge, Scizor didn't even lose its target!

Pikachu was slammed back into a tree. “Pikachu, get up!” Ash called out, worried.

“Ominous Wind!” Kai commanded. Scizor boosted all of its stats.

“Thunder Wave!!” Ash shouted.

“Back off and dodge!” Kai commanded.

Both Pokémon and Trainers were now completely focused on ending this battle. Without paying attention to their surroundings, they went all out.

“Use a Double Team!” Ash said.

“Counter with Wind!” Kai ordered. “Now, use Trailblaze to boost your speed even further, and follow up with Dual Wingbeat!”

“Pikachu, dodge it using Extreme Speed!” Ash said.

“Agh! Steel, Bug, Dark, Flying, and now Grass moves... how many move types can your Scizor even use?!” Ash asked, wiping sweat from his forehead.

“It depends on how much effort you put into training. In our case, we improve every single day to face any kind of opponent,” Kai answered.

“Use Pounce!” Scizor leaped forward, attempting to lower Pikachu's speed.

“Counter with Tackle!” Pikachu leaped back and countered the strike.

“If you both train and improve yourself so much, then why do you hate Trainers? That's the one thing I don't understand,” Ash asked.

“I don't hate Trainers. It's just my way of testing someone's true nature and behavior,” Kai replied.

Ash commanded, “Use Light Screen, then Wild Charge!”

“Block it and step away!” Kai said.

“But yesterday, your inner feelings clearly showed that you actually hate us,” Ash pointed out.

“It's not hatred, but I dislike the Champion title, the League, and any official system with authority members,” Kai replied.

“Scizor, Flash Cannon!” Kai ordered. In midair, a Flash Cannon fired straight down toward Pikachu.

“It's too early to finish us off!” Ash said passionately. “Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!”

“A straightforward Volt Tackle against a Flash Cannon? That's not a smart choice,” Kai said.

“Like I said, it's too early to draw conclusions!” Ash replied.

Kai noticed that Pikachu was using tree branches to accelerate in a zigzag path. Scizor couldn't aim properly at the fast-moving target.

“Can I ask you, why do you hate the Pokémon League and Champion titles so much?” Ash asked.

“Again, I'm not a hater—I just dislike them,” Kai replied. “Because I have my own personal reasons.”

“What kind of personal reasons? If you're willing to share,” Ash said.

“I'm not in the mood for flashbacks right now,” Kai responded, refusing to reveal anything about his past. “But because someone spent their whole life chasing a mere title, a family was completely destroyed. Something similar happened to me.”

“You're right... this battle is getting way too intense, which is why I shouldn't pry into your past,” Ash replied with a thoughtful smile. “Still, I want to understand you. So if I win, you have to tell me everything—every bit of pain and the full reason behind your dislike.”

“Are you making a bet with me?” Kai asked.

raising an eyebrow.

“Nope, because I'm winning this,” Ash replied confidently.

Kai let out a small laugh. “Hehehe... sorry to burst your bubble, but I've already won this.”

“Let's see if you're right or not!” Ash replied.

Pikachu's Volt Tackle landed directly on Scizor's stomach. Scizor was about to fall, but it braced itself, taking the full impact while standing its ground against Pikachu's thrust.

Why is Scizor resisting the fall? Ash thought, before his eyes widened in realization. No... it's taking the hit on purpose!

“You figured it out too late,” Kai said with a mocking smile.

Scizor fired a Hyper Beam at point-blank range. Due to the momentum of Volt Tackle, it was impossible for Pikachu to dodge or counter. The fully charged Hyper Beam blasted Pikachu straight up into the sky. Before he could land, Scizor thrust its metal claw forward, launching Pikachu into the nearby river!

“Pikachu!!” Ash shouted, rushing toward the water.

Scizor fell to its knees, as the recoil and electric shock almost paralyzed it. Yet, it forced itself up and rushed over to finish off his opponent, Kai following right behind.

Scizor arrived at the river's edge, looking down at its drowning opponent. Its gaze remained sharp, watching the bubbles rising to the surface.

Ash and Kai arrived seconds later.

“Looks like the winner is decided, World Champ,” Kai said.

“Yeah, the winner is decided... and it's me!” Ash replied.

“What?!” Kai asked, confused.

An Extreme Speed Volt Tackle suddenly splashed out of the water! Pikachu grabbed onto Scizor's face, completely blocking its vision. Panicking to break free from the grip, Scizor lost its balance and tumbled into the water right along with Pikachu!

Kai shouted a frantic command, “Scizor, get out of the water quickly!”

He realized that underwater, Pikachu's electric current would cause insanely heavy damage or a direct knockout!

Ash’s inner thoughts raced as sweat glistened on his face. *A Volt Tackle and multiple electric shocks... Scizor is getting weak, and its HP is probably low. But Pikachu also took a lot of damage, and he still hasn't fully recovered from yesterday's defeat.*

Ash closed his eyes tightly. “This is a tough situation, Pikachu, but we can't afford to lose!”

As he opened his eyes, Scizor pulled itself out of the water.

*Yeah, Pikachu's HP is low just like Scizor's*, Kai thought to himself. *Unfortunately, he missed his best opportunity to defeat us.*

Suddenly, Pikachu jumped out of the water, launching an Electro Ball! Scizor couldn't dodge in time due to the heavy impact and took the strike head-on. Since its body was still soaking wet, the electric shock dealt twice as much damage.

Scizor breathed heavily as smoke evaporated from its body, yet it refused to give up or faint. On the other hand, Pikachu was also suffering from the recoil of continuous impacts.

“Now the situation has become critical. Neither of them is ready to give up,” Kai said, his eyes narrowing.

Ash added, “It's time for the final conclusion!”

Kai commanded, “Scizor, use Iron Defense and follow up with Fury Cutter!”

“Pikachu, deflect it with Iron Tail!” Ash commanded at the same time.

Both Pokémon used Reversal at the exact same moment, plunging right back into a fast-paced, close-combat clash. Pikachu parried every single one of Scizor's claws.

Both Trainers shouted, “This is the end!!”

“Use Volt Tackle again!”

“Face it head-on! Use Iron Head!”

Both Pokémon pushed themselves past their limits. A final clash between steel and lightning shook the ground once again. Scizor managed to flinch Pikachu. “This is our chance! X-Scissor!”

The X-shaped slash hit Pikachu directly, slamming him hard onto the ground.

Ash's hair shadowed his eyes as he took a heavy breath. Kai and Scizor, gasping for air, believed it was over. “Now it's finished,” Kai said, a winning smirk forming on his face.

Ash suddenly pointed his finger toward the sky. “Hey, I already told you... it's too early to declare a winner!”

“What do you mean—?!” Kai looked up and froze in absolute shock. “How?!”

An Electro Ball was falling directly from the sky! When Pikachu was thrown earlier by the metal claw, he had tossed an Electro Ball high into the air like a volleyball.

“Scizor, get out of the way!!” Kai yelled frantically, but he quickly realized... Scizor was on its knees, completely out of strength.

“Now it's finally over,” Ash smiled, but his smile quickly faded.

Even without any strength left, Scizor charged a Hyper Beam and partially spread its wings to push itself backward. It almost succeeded! The Electro Ball missed, crashing into the dirt. “That is our courage to never give up!” Kai declared. “With this, we will defeat the World Champion!”

“You talk about courage? Ours is far greater than yours!” As Ash spoke, Pikachu launched another Electro Ball. This time, it was smaller than a baseball.

“It's a waste of your remaining energy!” Kai said.

Ash replied with a smirk, “Pikachu, use Water Gun!”

A jet of water shot out of Pikachu's mouth, soaking Scizor once again. Kai and Scizor stared in total confusion, wondering how an Electric-type mouse could ever use a Water Gun.

“Don't spend too much time thinking! Get ready for an extra electric shock!” Ash said with a bright grin.

The tiny Electro Ball hit, delivering a massive shock through the water soaking Scizor's body, finally knocking it out.

Ash and Pikachu slammed their exhausted bodies onto the grass. “Phew! That was an awesome battle!” Ash said, a bright smile plastered across his face.

Kai muttered to himself in disbelief, “How did I lose...?”

“That wasn't actually a Water Gun,” Ash explained, grinning. “Pikachu held water in his mouth while underwater. To catch you off guard, we just acted like it was a real move!”

“I already knew that! I'm smart enough not to fall for silly tricks like that,” Kai replied, turning his head away to tease Ash.

Ash tilted his head, looking at him bewildered. “Wait, are you indirectly calling me dumb?!”

“So, you launched an Electro Ball at a specific angle using precise calculations and trigonometric functions to hit the target at an exact location,” Kai continued casually, crossing his arms. “You calculated the distance from the launch point to the landing zone, accounting for the curve's circumference, arc height, mass, and applied gravitational force equations alongside velocity, acceleration, and free-fall physics...”

From Ash's perspective, all he heard was: “Blah, blah, blah...”

“Wait... what are trigonometric functions?!” Ash's head started spinning as his mind completely broke down. “Or a circumference equation?!”

Pikachu had already fainted from pure confusion.

“Okay, fine, you win!” Ash cried out, covering his ears. “Please stop the math lecture! My brain can't take it any more... even Pikachu passed out!”

Seeing Ash and Pikachu in such an uneasy, overwhelmed state, Kai couldn't hold it in anymore and burst out laughing. “Hahaha!”

“Hey! Now you're laughing at us!” Ash snapped.

“Sorry...” Kai said. “Sorry, but you're the same as I heard about The Youngest World Champion.”

“Whatever, I'm totally exhausted this time, but this is actually fun.” Ash muttered, trying to push himself up from the ground.

Kai extended his hand to help him up, a fresh, genuine smile flickering across his face. “I'm Kai Shinagawa. And I'm your companion through the Altus region.”

With a bright, friendly smile, Ash accepted his hand. “I'm Ash Ketchum! Let's uncover the mysteries of this unseen world together!”

After a ferocious battle on Route 1, where Ash and Kai enjoyed every single second, their journey officially began with the start of a brand-new friendship.

To Be Continued….

Ch.09 :: First Step into the Unknown

Pokémon Supreme

AO3

That same night in the Celadon City hospital:

Gary's room was filled with complete darkness. He hadn't turned on the lights. The half-moon poured its rays through the room, and cold winds felt like they held hidden secrets.

Leaf knocked on the door. “Can I come in?”

There was no response from inside, so she entered the room.

“Huh?! Gary, why didn't you turn the lights on? The whole room is in the dark.” Leaf flicked the switch, and the entire room was suddenly filled with brightness.

“Now it looks like daytime,” Leaf said, glaring gently at Gary. He was completely focused on looking outside the window. Leaf took a stool and sat near the bed.

“Gary, how are your injuries now?” Leaf asked softly.

He still looked outside and responded, “It's just bruises. During training, I got much more intense wounds. It's nothing.”

“It's nothing?!” Leaf, looking a little worried, crossed her arms. “That red-eyed bastard made your condition this bad! He's the most ruthless trainer I have ever seen.”

Gary didn't say anything. Leaf asked, “Why did he attack you?”

Gary stayed calm. “Maybe that red-eyed guy just wanted to know how strong he is. Sorry, but I don't want to talk about him for now.”

Leaf sighed softly. “Sorry, I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I just got overwhelmed with emotions. Let's forget what I asked.”

A heavy silence fell over the room. They had shared so many difficulties, battles, and trips together. But time and circumstances had changed everything, and their friendship bond had become rusty.

That awkward silence made Leaf feel uneasy. She never thought something like this would happen after years of friendship.

To break the silence, she said, “Daisy is worried about you. She and Tracey are looking after all of the professor's work.”

Gary asked, “How's Red's mother?”

Leaf was stunned. She didn't expect him to ask something like that. She hesitated and said, “She's fine.”

“Don't try to hide anything. Red's mother is still in the hospital,” Gary replied.

Leaf lowered her head. “When he disappeared, her condition became worse. Whenever I or anyone else visits her, the only question she asks is, 'Has my son come back?'”

Leaf lowered her voice even more and hesitated to say, “Can I ask you something?”

Gary asked in a low, calm voice, “It's about Red?”

She clenched her dress, her eyes turning teary, but she tried to act emotionally strong. “Is he actually... dead?”

Gary looked back out the window. “I traveled across so many regions, islands, and cities. Every place where I got some clues, I asked so many people. Some were helpful to me, and some hated him; they considered Red a traitor.”

His tone became a little more serious. “I pushed my limits, but there's nothing I could do. It's better if he stays hidden or dead, because we might forgive him, but not the world.”

Leaf tried extremely hard to hold in her emotions. Tears fell onto the back of her hands, and her voice cracked. “I'm sorry... I can't... sniff... I don't want to act weak but—.”

Gary felt guilty, but that was the harsh truth they had to accept. The world of their friendship and bond was like shattered glass—it could be glued back together, but the cracks were still visible.

The night blanket dissolved into early morning in Pallet Town. Ash packed his bag while beside him, Pikachu helped out.

“It's been a while since we last went on a journey,” Ash said.

“Pika–!” Pikachu agreed, twitching his ears happily.

“But this isn't like a regular adventure!” Ash zipped up his bag. “This time, we're on an official League quest.”

Ash stood up and stretched his arms upward. “Alright, it's done! I have to take a shower before leaving. It's 6:05 AM, so we have enough time to meet Kai.”

“Chaa!” Pikachu hopped off the bed to go downstairs and help Delia.

Delia placed a fresh set of clothes on his desk and said, “Ash, I put these on your desk!”

Ash called back, “Okay! Thanks, Mom!”

After taking a shower, Ash geared up in his new travel outfit: a color-blocked hoodie in shades of blue and white over a grey T-shirt, paired with matching jeans and his iconic fingerless trainer gloves. He was fully ready to depart.

Ash went downstairs, where a warm breakfast was already served on the dining table. “Thanks for the meal!” he said, sitting down eagerly.

Delia sat on the opposite side of the table, asking in a soft, worried tone, “Ash, do you actually want to go?”

Ash stopped eating for a moment, answering in a serious voice, “Yeah. I don't want to fall behind anymore.”

Delia waved her hands gently. “It's not like I'm trying to stop you…” Her motherly eyes softened as she looked at her son, who had lost his drive for two whole years. “You are so precious to me, and I'm just so happy you're finally back to yourself.”

She quickly wiped a tear from her eye and stood up, trying to compose herself. “Oh, I forgot to water the flowers today! I'll be right back.”

Ash realized in that moment how much his period of isolation had affected those around him. Unintentionally, his loss of direction had placed a silent emotional burden on his mother.

Ash stood up, walked over, and gave Delia a tight hug. “Mr. Mime already finished watering them. I think you forgot.”

“You're right... I guess I'm getting old!” Delia said with a gentle, awkward smile.

“I'm sorry,” Ash muttered softly.

“For what?” Delia asked.

“Please forgive me... for hurting your heart,” Ash answered.

Delia hugged him back tightly. “No matter how much a child hurts their mother, her love remains unconditional and endless.” She pulled back slightly, cupping his face. “You're all grown up now, Ash, but you will always be my little boy.”

Pikachu and Mr. Mime joined in, hugging them as well. Delia smiled brightly, her eyes glistening. “To me, you are all my precious world.”

Delia then gave Ash a warm kiss on his forehead. “Now go, look after your friends, and carry out your responsibilities.” She gave Pikachu the exact same warm forehead kiss.

Ash and Pikachu stepped out of the house, ready for their new adventure. As they turned to wave goodbye, Delia smiled and called out, “Don't look back now! No matter what troubles you face, keep moving forward and always believe in yourself!”

Ash and Pikachu, before they set off to meet Kai, wanted to visit Tracey once more.

At Professor Oak's lab:

“Ash, are you really ready for this quest?” Tracey asked.

“We're completely ready for this! There's no way we're backing down this time!” Ash replied enthusiastically.

“You always give the right answer,” Tracey said, smiling warmly.

“So you're about to leave this early?” Leaf said, walking in from behind.

“Leaf! Sorry for leaving you all alone at the hospital,” Ash said, scratching the back of his neck.

“Don't worry about it,” Leaf replied.

“By the way, how is Gary's condition?” Ash asked.

“How many times do I have to tell you? It's no big deal,” Gary said as he entered the room.

After their previous conflict, both hesitated to make direct eye contact.

“Ugh, how long are you two going to keep giving each other the cold shoulder?!” Leaf asked, sighing heavily with her hands on her hips.

“I'm sorry... I said a lot of things in anger,” Ash said, still averting his eyes.

“It doesn't bother me,” Gary replied calmly. “Your reaction was completely justified after what I told you.”

Gary looked directly at Ash for the first time since entering the room, his expression calm but serious.

“You're heading off on a mission for the Supreme League, right?” Gary asked, crossing his arms.

Ash looked up, surprised, before nodding firmly. “Yeah. Leon gathered all the Champions yesterday. I'm heading to the Altus Region to find someone named Professor Ryan.”

Gary let out a small breath, looking toward the open lab window where the morning breeze rustled the curtains. “The world outside is much larger than whatever happened in Kanto two years ago, Ash. Don't let your guard down.

“I know,” Ash replied, his eyes shining with renewed purpose. “I won't lose again. Not to Kean, and not to anyone else.”

Leaf smiled gently, seeing the old spark returning to both of her childhood friends. “Just make sure you take care of yourself, Ash. And call us whenever you get the chance.”

“I will! Thanks, Leaf!” Ash turned to Tracey. “Thanks for everything, Tracey. Keep an eye on Professor Oak for us.”

“You can count on me, Ash,” Tracey said, giving a reassuring nod. “Now go on, before your travel guide leaves without you!”

Before leaving, Ash turned back and said softly to Gary, “I found what you tried to hide about Red.”

Gary froze, then turned to glare seriously at Ash's determined gaze. After a quiet moment, he smiled. “Remember one thing, Ash. The world that I already witnessed during my expedition for Red... it is far beyond your thoughts.” Gary put his hands in his pockets and turned away. “It's your time to witness even more than I did.”

He paused at the doorway.

“Also remember: a lie always hurts the most coming from someone close to you. But what hurts even more is when you finally learn the truth behind that lie.”

With that, Gary walked back toward his room.

Though feeling a bit confused, Ash gathered his courage and adjusted his gloves. Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder with a sharp, spirited “Pika!”

“See ya later, everyone!”

With a final wave, Ash dashed out of the lab doors, heading straight toward Route 1.

At 07:56 AM, Ash and Pikachu arrived at the meeting spot just before the given time.

Ash looked around, but Kai was nowhere to be seen. “What now, Pikachu? We arrived here before the time.”

“Piiii,” Pikachu responded, tilting his head.

“Did he already leave us, even after we made it on time?!” Ash muttered.

“Sometimes, it's okay to look up,” a voice called out from a nearby tree. Kai jumped down from a high branch, landing silently on his feet. “So, the World Champ actually knows the value of time.”

“What did you think? That I would be afraid and back off? It's too early to judge someone!” Ash replied with a confident smirk.

“Whatever. Let's go all out,” Kai said coldly.

“Which way do we get to the Altus Region—by plane or ship?” Ash asked.

“I said, let's go all out. Which means: draw your Pokémon,” Kai demanded.

“What do you mean?” Ash asked, blinking in confusion.

“Pika?!” Pikachu added, standing on high alert.

“I challenge you to a duel, World Champion Ash Ketchum!” Kai declared, pointing a Poké Ball straight toward him.

“Why so sudden?!” Ash asked, completely baffled. “You're really hard to read! Why do you want to fight me right now?!”

“Tsk. I won't repeat myself. Bring out your best Pokémon and face me in a duel!” Kai snapped.

*Out of nowhere, Kai has challenged Ash Ketchum on Route 1! A match between Kai—who calls himself a Supreme Agent and openly hates Champions—agaist the current World Champion Ash Ketchum is about to unfold.*

To Be Continued…

Chapter 08 :: A Precious Gift

Pokémon Supreme

Ash asked Kai, the stranger who had sneaked into the lab's main office, “What do you mean by 'I hate every trainer'?”

“Trainers are selfish people who only care about themselves,” Kai responded, his voice dripping with distaste. “It's just a title... and the most hated title for me is 'Champion.'”

Everyone in the meeting felt an instant surge of hostility toward him. Ash considered his words a direct disrespect, but before he could even reply, Tracey burst out at Kai.

“A trainer isn't a selfish title! They understand Pokémon and other people's feelings! You're a Pokémon trainer too, so how can you think of something like that?!”

Kai replied coldly, “I use my Pokémon as tools—creatures that happen to have special abilities.”

Tracey, who almost always remained calm in every situation, completely snapped. “A tool?! A creature with abilities?! Someone as arrogant as you will never understand what Pokémon truly mean!”

Tracey pointed his finger sharply at Kai. “Pokémon are friends! Trainers share deep bonds with them, understanding their feelings and behavior. Someone like you just uses them for personal gain. You've never understood what that bond even means!”

“Shut up,” Kai replied with a deadpan, icy glare. “I'm not here for your lecture, so keep your pitying mouth shut.”

Both Ash and Pikachu were filled with rage. Kai hadn't just disrespected their titles—he had insulted Ash's closest friend right to his face.

“How dare you!” Ash demanded, taking a step forward.

Iris, shouting through her screen, joined in. “Ash, show that bastard! How can this arrogant person casually disrespect us and say Champions hold selfishness?!”

“From your actions and your tone, I'm guessing you're the most foolish person here,” Kai replied, looking at her screen with an amused smirk.

Iris exploded at him, yelling, “Hey! If you've got the guts, come over here and I'll show you who the foolish person is!”

“Calm down, Iris. He's just baiting us,” Nemona interjected, trying to stay composed.

“It's not just her. You're the exact same kind of fool,” Kai mocked, shifting his gaze toward Nemona.

Nemona’s eyes flashed with anger as she yelled, “Hey, you bastard! Once I meet you in person, I'll show you who the real fool is by breaking every bone in your body!”

“Both of you, stop it right now,” Diantha interrupted with a deep sigh, placing a hand on her forehead.

“How can you be so calm when someone is blatantly disrespecting us?!” Iris asked, throwing her hands in the air.

Lance answered calmly, crossing his arms. “Because he's just acting arrogant to provoke us.”

Both Nemona and Iris blinked, stunned. “How can you be so sure he's acting?!”

Gladion replied firmly, “To test the true nature of people in higher positions, outsiders will often mock or disrespect them on purpose. They want to see how those people react and answer under pressure.”

“And in your case, both of you fell straight into his trap,” Wallace added, fanning himself with a soft, disappointed sigh.

“Woah... so not all Champions around here are complete fools. Looks like a few of you recognized my trick,” Kai replied, letting out a dry, mocking chuckle.

Nemona frowned, looking at Gladion. “And how were you so sure about this, Gladion?”

“A few minutes ago, the letter from the Supreme League did the exact same thing—mocking us by bringing up our flaws and tagging us as mere celebrities,” Gladion explained coldly.

Both Iris and Nemona flushed with embarrassment, realizing they had let their tempers get the better of them.

“Still... what he said about Pokémon and trainers wasn't just a troll,” Tracey said, staring intently at Kai.

“You're correct,” Kai replied flatly. “I truly do hate Champions and trainers.”

“Can I ask you the reason behind all this hatred?” Ash asked, his voice dropping into a serious, steady tone.

“Chasing a mere title for your entire life ruins everything around you,” Kai answered, his expression turning distant and cold. “Those who abandon their homes for that single goal stop thinking about others. They don't even think about their own families.”

Hearing this, Ash and the rest of the Champions fell completely silent. Though they wanted to disagree, his words carried a heavy, uncomfortable truth. To achieve greatness in the League, many trainers ended up leaving behind their families, friends, and hometowns for years on end.

Ash took a slow breath and answered, “You have a point... to achieve something great, you often have to sacrifice a peaceful life. But that isn't meant—”

Kai cut Ash off before he could finish. “I don't want to hear your hollow answers. I'm not interested in your speeches. Just be at Route 1 tomorrow at 8:00 AM sharp. That's when we depart.”

Ash stared at him in shock. “Tomorrow that early?!”

Leon spoke up from his screen. “It's better if we finish this quest as soon as possible. The Supreme League ceremony is ten months from today. It sounds like a decent amount of time, but we shouldn't waste a single second.”

“Ten months... that's plenty of time,” Iris said, nodding.

“It sounds like a massive amount of time, but in reality, you never know how fast it will pass,” Lance replied gravely.

“Fine by me,” Nemona said, glaring directly at Kai on her screen. “Let's finish this quest as quickly as possible, and then I'll personally teach this guy a lesson about attitude.”

“Whatever you wish, idiots,” Kai said, turning toward the door. As he reached the exit, he paused and glanced over his shoulder. “If you arrive even a single second late tomorrow, forget about this quest. I'll leave right in front of your eyes... World Champ.”

With that, Kai exited the lab, his footsteps fading down the hallway.

One by one, the Champions ended their video calls until only Ash and Leon remained on the line. Before Leon could disconnect, Ash called out, “Leon! I want to ask you something.”

Leon paused, looking closely at Ash's expression. “Is something bothering you, Ash?”

“There’s a trainer I met this afternoon...” Ash clenched his fist tight, his eyes filled with lingering doubt and frustration. “He isn't a normal trainer. He defeated me and Pikachu without even trying.”

Leon’s expression turned thoughtful, and he stroked his chin. “So my hunch was right... those bandages didn't come from an accident. I felt like something was off when Tracey brought up that cliff story.”

Tracey rubbed the back of his head with an awkward smile. “I'm sorry for making up such a lame excuse, Leon! But during the meeting, everyone was already going off-topic and arguing. It felt like the best story to keep things simple.”

“Tracey, you're not just smart—you know exactly how to handle high-tension situations,” Leon said, looking impressed.

“Thanks!” Tracey replied with a small sigh of relief.

Leon turned his focus back to Ash. “So, Ash... what was going through your mind during that battle against this abnormal trainer?”

“I lost my cool,” Ash admitted, looking down at his bandaged hands in guilt. “It felt like all I wanted to do was crush him—to prove him wrong for looking down on my friends. But I lost... badly. He made me realize that even after becoming the World Champion... I'm still completely weak in someone else's eyes.”

Leon looked at Ash with a warm, reassuring smile. “The world is still a vast, unexplored place, Ash. When I first became Champion, I thought no one could ever stand above me. But I was proven wrong more times than I can count.”

Leon continued, his voice ringing with steady wisdom, “There are so many extraordinary Pokémon users out there who don't care about glory or public recognition. They stay hidden, quietly improving themselves until they become stronger than anyone could imagine. I've met people like that throughout my life—I've watched them and learned from them. Their goal isn't to win a shiny title or a trophy... they just want to live alongside Pokémon and experience life to its absolute fullest.”

Leon's words landed deeply, lifting the heavy weight of self-doubt that had been pressing down on Ash's heart.

Ash stared at his bandaged hands, the lingering sting of his defeat against Kean finally starting to subside, replaced by a quiet, burning resolve.

“You're right, Leon,” Ash said, looking up with a firm, energetic smile. “I was so caught up in being a Champion that I forgot how big the world really is. But I’m not running away anymore. I’m going to get stronger, find out what Red went through, and face that trainer again.”

Pikachu rubbed his cheek affectionately against Ash’s, giving a bright, fiery “Pika-chuu!” to show he was completely in sync with his trainer.

“So, you finally let out your pain!” Lance’s video feed suddenly popped back up on the screen.

It wasn't just Lance—every single Champion was still online! They had heard the entire conversation between Ash and Leon. Ash stared at the giant display in utter shock.

Iris glared at her camera, pouting furiously. “Ash! How rude of you! You hid all these heavy feelings from me!”

“How?!” Ash stuttered, waving his hands. “I thought all of your calls ended!”

“When an over-energetic person like you stays silent throughout an entire conference without sharing a single thought... we knew something was definitely wrong with you, Ash,” Lance replied with a warm, knowing smile.

“Your expressions are far too easy to read, Ash,” Diantha added gently. “It was obvious that something was weighing on your heart, but you refused to tell us.”

“Ashhh! I’m your friend!” Iris shouted through her mic again. “We traveled all across the Unova region together! Is this really how you treat me?!”

Ash lowered his head, a mixture of guilt and gratitude washing over him. “Please forgive me, everyone... That defeat earlier today still haunts me, and I didn't want to worry all of you over my silly anxieties.”

“Those aren't 'silly anxieties,' Ash,” Cynthia said, her tone soft. “We all feel that kind of pressure at times. Even if you didn't want to talk to us as League Champions, you could have at least shared it as our friend.”

Gladion leaned into his camera, his usual stoic expression softening slightly. “You helped me, my family, and especially Lillie. The whole Alola crew asks me about you all the time.”

“It’s the exact same story in Kalos,” Diantha shared warmly. “For the past two years, you’ve kept yourself isolated from your closest friends, Ash. Serena, Clemont, and Bonnie have been so worried about you. They wanted to visit Pallet Town, but with the region's resources recovering from recent events, they had to stay back.”

“And you didn't even bother to call them!” Cynthia pointed out, shaking her head. “Dawn and the rest of your Sinnoh friends are practically furious with you!”

“Same goes for Hoenn,” Steven chimed in with a gentle chuckle. “May and Max tried reaching out to you multiple times, but you never responded.”

Tracey stepped up from behind and placed a firm, comforting hand on Ash’s shoulder. “See, Ash? Even when you tried to isolate yourself, none of them ever forgot about your friendship.”

A small, genuine smile finally broke across Ash's face, a deep feeling of warmth washing away the cold doubts that had lingered for two long years. “I guess... I have to personally visit everyone and beg for forgiveness.”

Iris crossed her arms on screen, nodding firmly. “First, you have to come to Unova and bow down completely while apologizing! Until then, I’m not forgiving you!”

Ash laughed—a bright, energetic sound that hadn't been heard in a very long time. He adjusted his cap, his dark eyes sparkling with absolute determination.

“First, we’re going to complete this Supreme League quest! After that... just wait for me, everyone! I’m coming back for all of you!”

*Ash Ketchum, the World Champion, had finally shattered the walls of his isolation and returned to his true self. The intense events of the day had made him realize one undeniable truth: no matter how dark the road got, he was never truly alone. He was blessed with the most precious gift in the entire world—unbreakable friendship.*

To Be Continued….

S1E07 :: The Champions Meeting (P.02) :: An Emperor System

Pokémon Supreme

Leon finally joined the call, and now the actual point of this conference was about to begin…

In a serious, courageous tone, Leon said, “Look, whatever has happened until now was like a challenge for us, but still, we did not accept defeat. We faced a lot of difficulties, and those who trusted us also lost their trust in us. Despite it being an extremely difficult time, we made everything normal again without giving up. But this time, the matter is a little different.”

Geeta suddenly interrupted him with a small cough. Cough! But Leon continued his speech. Geeta interrupted him once more, “Please excuse me, Leon.”

“What happened, Miss Geeta?” Leon asked, pausing.

“Not much, but can you please turn on your webcam?” Geeta answered with a polite smile.

Leon suddenly realized that throughout his motivational speech, his screen had been pitch black the whole time!

An awkward silence fell over the whole conference. Tracey tried his best to control his laughter.

Leon quickly turned on his webcam, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment. “Sorry, sorry! I totally forgot my camera was off!”

“He is still as clumsy as ever,” everyone muttered under their breath.

With a clumsy smile, Leon cleared his throat. “Sorry, everyone! Back to the point.” His tone became serious again. “I already shared everything with Miss Geeta before the web conference.”

“As we know, when a trainer becomes a Champion by winning a tournament, the Pokémon League Association invites them to join as official members. It can be his or her choice to become an authority member, become a Gym Leader by passing a qualification test, or join as an elite trainer. They can also deny it if they do not want to be a part of any specific organization.”

“Yeah, we all already know that,” Wallace said softly.

“Their process is lame and requires a great amount of time just to accept their invitation,” Diantha added, shaking her head.

Iris nodded in agreement. “Same goes for me! In Unova, they took a whole week just to approve me as their member.”

Leon continued, “As for the trainer who won the World Coronation Series and became a Monarch, the winner was required to accept their offer.”

Ash spoke up, “Yeah, I received their invitation, and you helped me complete the process, Leon.”

“So what's the point of a topic that we all already know?” Steven asked, leaning forward with a curious look.

“That's the important reason I need to tell you all of this—because the Pokémon League Association is a semi-global association that connects other regional leagues,” Leon took a deep breath. “But there is also another global organization that is superior and far more powerful, known as the ‘Supreme League.’

“Supreme League?!” everyone exclaimed at the exact same time.

“Wait, I think I have heard about this League somewhere before,” Lance said, narrowing his eyes thoughtfully. “A global organization where the world leaders gather once every five years to submit and discuss certain laws and systems regarding their respective regions' interests.”

“You are right, Lance. The Supreme League is not just a gathering of world leaders, but also a social welfare entity meant to connect all regions,” Geeta replied, nodding gravely.

“Is that the reason why this conference was called?” Nemona asked, tilting her head.

“Recently, I received an invitation from the Supreme League. And it stated that they are about to officially introduce a hidden system: The ‘Emperor System.’”

“Emperor System?! What is that?” Iris asked, her eyes widening.

Cynthia gasped slightly. “Wait, does that actually exist? Were they not just rumors?”

“Hmph... so Emperors really do exist,” Lance added, folding his arms.

“Okay, so some of you know about it, but at least tell the rest of us what it means to be an Emperor!” Nemona exclaimed, eager for answers.

Diantha explained quietly, “There are some rumors about it. A most dangerous and unimaginably powerful group of trainers exists. They are said to be so strong that individual members can take on Legendary Pokémon alone.”

Wallace shook his head. “But that's always been considered a fake narrative used by evil organizations to control chaos.”

“He's right, because none of us have ever met any of them on our journeys. Some trainers tried to find them, but in the end, it was all dismissed as fake rumors,” Cynthia replied, crossing her arms.

“No, it's not just rumors or a fake narrative. Those kinds of trainers are real, and…” Leon said, hesitating to finish his sentence.

“And what?!” Gladion asked, his voice sharp.

Geeta completed his thought: “Leon actually met those Emperors.”

“Is that actually true, Mr. Leon?” Nemona asked, leaning close to her camera.

“It's been a year since I became a Champion. The Supreme League invited me to become a part of their association after analyzing my tactics and battles,” Leon replied, looking down at his desk.

“So, what do they all look like?” Iris asked with a tiny bit of curiosity.

“I would rather not tell you anything about that, because… it is far better that you find out for yourselves,” Leon replied quietly.

Ash suddenly perked up. “Wait a minute! You said they are strong and legendary trainers!” Ash asked loudly, clenched his fist. “Then where were all of them when Karkus was causing so much devastation?!”

Hearing this, the other Champions felt the exact same anger and confusion. Geeta answered them, “Because the Emperor System was broken a decade ago.”

“Broken? What does that mean?” Ash asked, brow furrowed.

“I just heard the reports. For several decades, the Emperors didn't act, and ten years ago, an incident occurred that temporarily shut down this system,” Geeta replied, her expression serious.

“And what kind of incident?” Gladion asked, clenching his fist.

Geeta replied, “Unfortunately, I don't know, and practically no one knows what kind of incident happened, because all information about it was erased from everywhere.”

“Erased from everywhere?! It seems like they don't want normal people to know anything about it,” Cynthia muttered, rubbing her chin.

“Miss Geeta, could it be possible that the unknown person who demolished the Karkus airship at the Lake of Sunset two years ago... was an Emperor?” Ash asked, his breath catching.

Geeta replied, “There is a high chance, but we are not sure about it, because there are also some other trainers who are equal or superior to any Legendary Pokémon.”

A flicker of new hope and determination lit up across Ash's face.

“Why did they send an invitation to you, Leon?” Gladion asked, keeping his focus on the main topic.

“The Supreme League is about to make the Emperor System official and legalized in the public eye,” Leon answered.

Geeta added, “After ten years of being a temporarily suspended organization, it is now making a return on a massive scale.”

“To understand their request in detail, I think it is best if Leon reads the letter for us.”

Leon took a deep breath, opened the letter, and read it aloud in a clear voice:

To: Former Monarch of the W.C.S.,

Respected Mr. Leon,

So many things have happened in previous years—especially the world-shaking event, ‘The Karkus Incident,’ which remains an unforgettable memory to us all. People's belief and trust in the Pokémon Association have almost completely faded. Despite trying hard on so many fronts, trust is never rebuilt easily.

Furthermore, the last World Leaders Summit took place almost a decade ago and never occurred again due to this temporary silence. That is why this is a great opportunity for us to celebrate the re-introduction of the Supreme Association to the public. This time, we are about to reveal the new Emperors.

For many decades, the Emperor System remained hidden from the world because we selected undercover trainers who faced grave disasters caused by Pokémon. The trainers who qualified as Emperors were selected after a 15-year gap. We, the authorities, have already chosen some extraordinary trainers as the new Emperors, and an opening ceremony will be held for them.

As for this invitation request, we have decided to ask the Champions of the Pokémon Association to deliver this news to some of our Emperor System's official members. Whichever corner of the world those members are living in, unaware of the news, they must be updated so they can appear before the ceremony begins.

From: Supreme League Association

“That's the invitation letter,” Leon said, stopping as he set the paper down.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Gladion snapped, his eyes flashing with anger. “Do they consider us some kind of postmen to deliver messages to their members?!”

Steven added, agreeing with Gladion, “Gladion is right. Why should the Association do whatever they want?!”

Everyone began voicing their discontent, completely disagreeing with the request.

Leon sighed deeply. He turned the letter over to read the second page. “Listen, everyone, there is something else, too.”

“If someone thinks this is just some kind of postman work, then understand this: even though you are all members of the Pokémon Association and the best recognized trainers in the world, how much do you actually know about the Supreme League and the Emperor System? Most of you still believe these are mere rumors. You don't even know everything about your own Association—what kind of decisions were made, or what priority they were given. How could any of you understand a new system that has been hidden for decades? Being a Champion isn't just about winning tournaments and acting like celebrities. It holds major responsibilities and duties that must be fulfilled.

After holding such great titles, you still couldn't stop a single person from causing devastation throughout the world. The Supreme League knows full well that the Pokémon League Association is far too easy to conquer with decent planning. That is the exact reason why the Emperor System needs to become an official, public system... because THE CHAMPIONS OF THE POKÉMON LEAGUE FAILED TO STOP KARKUS AND HIS CULT."

Leon paused, letting the final line hang in the dark, quiet video conference.

“This is not just a news-delivering task. Through this journey, you will all gain a true understanding of what the Supreme League is and how it works. Most importantly, you will learn what it actually means to be an Emperor, and why this world needs them. Only then will you find the true meaning behind your titles.”

The bitter words cut deep, leaving the room heavy with a raw, undeniable truth. Every single Champion remained frozen in silence, forced to carry the crushing weight of the letter's words.

Lance clenched his fists so tightly his knuckles turned white, his eyes flaring with suppressed anger. Steven and Diantha slowly bowed their heads, the heavy guilt of their past failures settling back onto their shoulders. Others stared at their screens in stunned silence, unable to utter a single counter-argument.

No one could deny the cold, brutal truth of what had just been read. The world had shattered two years ago, and despite all their strength, they had failed to prevent it.

Geeta sat back in her chair. She had never expected the Supreme League Authority to deliver such a ruthless, blunt judgment directly to the world's strongest trainers.

Gladion broke the heavy silence, his voice sharp and bitter. “Even after doing all that, they simply say we're not capable of anything? After we almost lost ourselves trying to fix the world?!”

Cynthia added, letting out a frustrated sigh, “We sacrificed our personal lives to bring everything back to normal, and now what do we get? A taunt from some unknown League that has been silent for years!”

Tracey looked at Ash and asked in a low, worried voice, “What do you think, Ash?”

Ash clenched his fist, but his eyes were filled with the fire of determination. A confident, courageous smile spread across his face. He stood tall and said loudly, “So they want us to obey their rules? Fine, I’ll do it! Not because they want me to, but because I want to uncover these hidden mysteries and explore unseen worlds!”

Ash raised his fist into the air and declared, “Emperors, the Supreme League, or mysterious trainers who are stronger than Legendaries—whatever comes my way, we’ll face it and go beyond! Right, Pikachu?”

Pikachu enthusiastically raised his paws, his voice filled with high spirits, “Pikaaaa-chaaa!!”

Ash's bold declaration instantly filled the other Champions with the same courage and strength. Every single person in the room felt the spark of excitement return, ready to face whatever unknown fate awaited them.

Geeta smiled warmly. “Thank you, Ash, for encouraging everyone. Your strong resolve always brings people together.”

Ash rubbed the back of his neck. “It’s not just a mere resolve. I stayed silent and was afraid of my own title for the last two years... but now, I don't want to repeat those mistakes just because of a taunt from some unknown League!”

Lance grinned, folding his arms. “Ash, you always act tough and independent. That's the true spirit! I'm in!”

Iris pouted playfully. “Now you're finally back to yourself, Ash! Count me in too!”

Nemona and Gladion nodded eagerly in agreement. Cynthia gave a soft smile, shaking her head pleasantly. “If no one else is backing down, then I won't either. Leon, I'm ready for this.” One after another, every Champion accepted the assignment.

Leon smiled with relief. “If everyone is ready, let me tell you the pairings for each member.”

“Pairings?!” Wallace asked, raising an eyebrow.

Leon scratched his cheek. “I don't know what kind of pairings these are either. The letter said to open this section only after everyone agreed to the request.”

Leon opened the new notice page and read aloud:

It looks like every Champion finally understands the true value of their title. A total of five members are in charge of the Emperor System, which is now active across the world. Pairs of Champions will go and inform each of them.

“The person who wrote this notice... they knew everything about us from the start, didn't they?” Diantha asked, her brow furrowing.

Leon continued reading:

Johto Champion Lance and Unova Champion Iris: Both of you will head toward the Soloria region, where the first member lives. His name is Khayr.

Iris tilted her head in confusion. “The Soloria Region?! What kind of region is that?”

“Khayr? Are there any other details about him?” Lance asked.

“Khayr: Leader of the Mantra Group and Co-founder of the Soloria Pokémon Association. Those are the only details mentioned here,” Leon answered.

Lance nodded. “At least that gives us a starting point.”

“Hey, don't ignore me!” Iris whined. “What kind of place is Soloria?!”

“According to my research, Soloria is a vast desert land where the sun always sits at the highest point in the sky, and sandstorms are extremely common,” Lance explained calmly. “Nearly 80% of the region is covered in endless desert.”

“Aghh! I really don't like desert areas!” Iris groaned, slumping in her seat.

“Well, it's our destination, so we just have to deal with it,” Lance said with a small chuckle.

Tracey smirked, looking impressed. “Two Dragon-type masters paired up... That's a solid pair!”

Leon read the next line:

World Top Coordinator Wallace and current Paldea Champion Nemona: Both of you will visit Mr. Richard in the Aravia region.

“The Aravia Region... where Lake of Sunset is famous,” Wallace noted.

“I don't care about the lake!” Nemona exclaimed, cracking her knuckles. “I just want to fight strong opponents and crush them for insulting us!”

Wallace let out a deep sigh, holding his head. “My partner is quite bold and aggressive... How am I going to handle this?”

“Don't worry, I can handle everything on my own!” Nemona replied with a wild grin.

Tracey muttered under his breath, Another very unexpected pair... This is getting really interesting.

“The next pair is—” Leon suddenly paused, gulping nervously.

“What is it now? What's the next unexpected pair?” Cynthia asked, tilting her head.

Leon took a slow breath. “Those visiting Los Nordia Island are... Steven and Cynthia.”

Hearing this, everyone exchanged awkward glances. After the heated argument between those two just minutes ago, this was definitely the most unexpected pair of all.

The person who matched these pairs knew exactly what kind of scenario would happen during this meeting! Tracey thought to himself, sweating slightly. Do they know the future or something?!

Cynthia cleared her throat, her expression neutral. “I don't have any problem with that.”

Steven adjusted his jacket, keeping his cool. “Me neither. It’s just a meeting to inform a member. I can handle it.”

“So, who is this member?” Cynthia asked.

“Ah... Jimmy, the Chairman of the J.M. Foundation,” Leon read out.

“The J.M. Foundation? Is that actually real?!” Steven asked, his eyes widening in shock. “That's one of the biggest companies in the world! My company tried really hard to collaborate with them for months, but we never got a response. Now I finally have a chance to meet their Chairman in person! This is a huge opportunity!”

Cynthia glanced at him with a slight smirk. “Now it sounds more like a business deal than a League task.”

It was clear both of them were still holding a subtle grudge against each other.

Leon quickly moved on:

Former Kalos Champion Diantha and current Kalos Champion Alain: You have to find Lady Nahoro in Kalos. That's all.

“What do they mean by 'that's all'?!” Diantha asked, throwing her hands up. “Who is Lady Nahoro?! Kalos is a massive region! Where on earth are we supposed to look for her?!”

“I guess you two will just have to search for her,” Geeta said with a small laugh.

“Not 'both of us'! I don't even know where Alain is right now!” Diantha snapped softly. “He's off doing research missions with Professor Sycamore. I guess I'll have to find him first!”

Leon read the final section:

And lastly, Ash Ketchum: You will meet Professor Ryan in the Altus Region. The remaining members who were not named must report to Chairwoman Geeta at the Paldea League Office to meet with Supreme Association representatives.

“So that's the entire request,” Geeta said, standing up. “Gladion, Leon, and the others who are missing here—I will wait for you at the Paldea Office.”

Ash blinked in confusion, pointing to himself. “Wait, why am I alone?! Where is my companion?! And there are so many questions—who is Professor Ryan, and where is the Altus Region?!”

Iris giggled, teasing him. “Hehe! It's because you're way too much work to handle, Ash! That's why nobody wants to travel with you!”

“Hey! That's not fair!” Ash and Pikachu both yelled at the same time.

“I don't know the reason either, Ash. The notice didn't give any details about your pair,” Leon explained, holding up his hands defensively.

Suddenly, a strange voice spoke up from right behind Ash and Tracey:

“So these are the Champions of the Pokémon League Association? What a pity... I don't like a single one of you.”

*Both Ash and Tracey turned around in shock. Standing near the doorway was a young man with a dark black wolf-cut hairstyle and chilling, piercing eyes. He wore a long black sleeveless jacket over a light vest, paired with long black jeans.*

With a cold, mocking smirk on his face, he chuckled, “Woah, woah... What an interesting meeting between fools!”

“Who are you?! How did you get in here?!” Tracey demanded, stepping back nervously.

“I don't know... just wandering around,” the stranger replied casually, leaning against the wall.

“We're not going to ask again! Answer the question!” Ash demanded, his fists clenching.

“Don't get so mad, Mister World Champion,” the stranger said, looking at Ash with an icy glare. “I'm your travel companion for the Altus journey.”

“What?! You heard our entire discussion?!” Ash exclaimed in surprise.

“Wait, Ash! There's something else written at the bottom of the notice!” Leon interrupted, leaning closer to his screen. “It says: The World Champion will be accompanied by one of our agents.”

“An agent of the Supreme Association?!” Tracey asked, staring at the stranger. “So... he's the agent?!”

“Hell no!” Ash replied immediately. “An unknown intruder can't be an official agent!”

“I'm no intruder,” the stranger said coldly, glaring at everyone in the room. “The name is Kai.”

He crossed his arms, his tone dipping into pure disgust:

“And I hate all of you Champions... In fact, I hate every single trainer in this world.”

To Be Continued...

Yoo guys, my fic has reached 100 hits on AO3. A new beginning has begun in the Pokemon world. Orignal Characters along with old/official characters.

Only 6 chapters have been uploaded so far, but every effort has been made to describe the world, events and interactions between the characters. There will be confusion and many questions, but this is just the beginning, there is still a lot to happen.

S1E06 :: The Champion's Meeting Begins (Part.01)

Pokémon Supreme

Before Ash could rest, he was called back to Pallet Town by Tracey to Professor Oak's lab immediately. Leon had something important to tell all the Champions. Ash and Pikachu headed back to Pallet Town, while Leaf decided to stay at the hospital until Gary was discharged. Ash had resolved to find Red and get answers to his questions, using the journey to train harder so he could defeat Kean when their paths crossed again.

On the route to Pallet Town, a cool evening breeze blew softly. The sun had almost set, leaving stars sparkling across the gradient orange-and-blue sky. Pikachu rested quietly on Ash's shoulder.

“What do you think, Pikachu? What’s so important that Leon called an urgent meeting?”

“Pi-kaa…”

“You said it, buddy. We’ll only find out once we get there. Rest up until then.”

“Chaa!!”

A short while later, Ash arrived at Professor Oak's lab.

“Hello Tracey, sorry I took extra time to arrive!” Ash called out as he pushed open the main door of the lab.

The entire lab was completely pitch black. Ash raised his voice, “Is anyone here?!” He muttered under his breath to Pikachu, “Why are there no lights?”

Suddenly, something ambushed Ash from behind, knocking him down with a loud crash!

Hearing the commotion, Tracey and the lab assistants hurried toward the entrance. Tracey shouted to an assistant, “Quick, turn on the generator! It’s so dark I can't see anything!”

As the lights flickered back on, Ash was revealed lying on the floor with Muk draped completely over him. “Okay, Muk… Muk!! Haha, I know, I missed you too!”

It had been a long time since Ash had visited the lab, which meant he hadn't given enough time to his many Pokémon resting here.

Tracey stepped forward and offered a hand. “Ash! How are you after so many days?” Meanwhile, the assistants pulled Muk off him.

Ash shook Tracey's hand and stood up, dusting himself off. “I'm always fine, thanks.”

Tracey quickly noticed the heavy bandages wrapped around Pikachu. “Pikachu’s condition looks terrible! He should be taking some rest.”

“Yeah, you're right, but Pikachu’s more energetic than you think.”

“Leaf told me on the phone… you encountered some mysterious person with horrific red eyes like a demon, and he did this to Pikachu?”

Ash’s face darkened, but his eyes burned with resolve. “His name is Kean. He’s cold and ruthless, but next time we meet him, we’ll definitely show him who we are.”

Tracey smiled warmly. “Now that’s the real Ash Ketchum energy.” He paused, gesturing to his own clothes. “By the way, notice anything different? Full formal get-up with a lab coat!”

“You’ve changed a lot, Tracey! That is… ever since Professor Oak went into a coma, you’ve been doing all his work?”

“Yeah. With all the research and documentation, the work never finishes. I have been managing everything.”

“I guess you need a vacation.”

“I wish I could take one! Still, I have my new colleagues who help me out a lot.”

Both turned around to look at the three new assistants, who were currently struggling to handle Muk's over-friendly antics. The three introduced themselves while trying to pry Muk off their clothes.

“Hi! I'm Sota! Nice to meet you, and I love sweets!”

“My name is Hiro, and I currently work as a research helper!”

“I… I can't believe it's the World Champion! I'm… I'm Hina! Can I get your autograph or a selfie?!”

Muk completely overwhelmed them, smothering them in affection. Both Ash and Tracey couldn't help but feel a little sorry for them.

Ash waved back with a laugh. “Nice to meet you all! Mr. Sota, I like sweets too. Keep doing your best, Mr. Hiro! And I’ll definitely take a selfie with you, Miss Hina.”

As the three remained completely helpless against Muk, Tracey called out, “Sorry about Muk, guys—he just loves making new friends!” He then turned to Ash. “Let's go, Ash. I'll take you to the main office.

”

As they walked down the hall toward the office room, Ash asked, “What happened all of a sudden for Leon to call us?”

“I don't know,” Tracey replied. “I received an email from him directly. He wants every Champion to attend an online meeting. He wrote that it's about the future of the Pokémon League.”

“For the Pokémon League's future? That feels off…”

“Yeah, something’s definitely off. Leon emailing me personally has never happened before.”

Ash furrowed his brow, piecing the events together. “It’s all happening at once… the mysterious trainer Kean with that unknown ancient Pokémon Luraxian, Gary coming back after two years, and out of nowhere, Leon emailing to gather every Champion for the League's future.”

Tracey froze in his tracks. “Wait, what?! Gary actually came back?!”

“Huh? Didn't Leaf tell you about Gary?”

“Of course she didn't tell me anything!”

“Okay, I'll tell you later. First, we have to focus on the main topic.”

“At least tell me how he is!”

Ash ignored Tracey's nagging, his tone dipping into solemn quiet. “Gary’s in the hospital. Just like me, he was defeated by Kean. Let’s move on—we need to join the meeting as soon as possible.”

Tracey crossed his arms, huffing. “Humph! Okay, fine, ignore my questions then!”

“It’s not like that! Gary will come here soon after he’s discharged anyway. You can meet him then.”

Both entered the main lab office. A massive display screen dominated the room, emitting a pale glow in the pitch-black space.

“Why is it so dark in here too?” Ash asked, squinting.

“Because it improves visual quality for the video call,” Tracey explained smoothly.

“Wow. Now you crack jokes too?”

“It's just a fact.”

“I’ve never heard a fact like that before!”

From the giant display, a loud, familiar voice echoed into the room: “It keeps your complete focus on the screen, Ash!”

Ash immediately recognized the voice. “Hey! That’s Lance!”

Lance turned on his webcam, his feed popping up on the large screen. “So you still remember me! I thought you might have forgotten about me since the last time we met.” The Johto Champion and Elite Four member smiled faintly.

“Of course not! I’d never forget one of my greatest rivals and supporters!”

“Glad to hear it. Looks like we’ve both arrived online a bit too early, though. No one else has joined yet.”

Suddenly, another voice chimed in. “Just coming a little early doesn't make any difference, Lance.”

Cynthia’s screen appeared right beside Lance's. The former Champion of the Sinnoh region and master archaeologist had retired as official Champion, but in the absence of the current Champion, she joined the call to represent her region.

“Cynthia! How are you?” Ash greeted enthusiastically.

“Ash! It’s been a while since I last saw you. I’m doing completely fine, as usual.”

“Well, I’m not,” another voice sighed. Steven’s video feed popped up, showing an exhausted expression. The CEO of Devon Corporation and former Hoenn Champion had been focusing heavily on his business affairs. “I just arrived from an urgent corporate meeting, and now I have this video call to deal with.”

“At least take some breaks, Steven,” Wallace urged as his screen appeared next. The current Champion of Hoenn and Top Coordinator looked as glamorous as ever.

“Mister Wallace is right!” Iris declared, joining the call. The Unova Champion and Dragon Master grinned into her camera. “Mister Steven, you have to take personal rest! Working too much will make you age prematurely!”

“I hope someone understands my situation too,” Diantha added as her feed connected. The Kalos Champion and world-famous actress gave a tired sigh. “I’m completely exhausted balancing my acting career and Champion duties.”

“It is our responsibility to review official League notices. We cannot ignore them,” Gladion stated firmly, his feed coming online as the Champion of the Alola region.

“Even so, we have to follow rules that destroy our health!” Nemona chimed in energetic agreement, the Champion of the Paldea region beaming on her screen.

One after another, every regional Champion's video feed popped up on the massive display. What was once a silent, dark room was now filled with the light and voices of the most renowned trainers in the world.

“So the person who arranged this online meeting hasn't come yet,” Cynthia said, glancing at the empty screen.

“Looks like Mr. Leon has forgotten that he told us it's urgent, and he himself did not join on time. What a pity!” Iris replied, shaking her head.

“By the way, Cynthia, are you out at some camp? It is clear from your background,” Diantha asked, leaning closer to her screen.

With a heavy gasp, Cynthia nodded. “Yes, I was exploring the ruins to find something. I heard Team Galactic has been planning something for quite some time.”

“Team Galactic? But I heard they disbanded when their leader went vanished.” Steven asked, furrowing his brow in confusion.

“But it seems like all of the members are gathering to do something big. Maybe they want to save Cyrus or something else,” Cynthia explained, her expression turning dark.

“It seems like you are still having trouble, even after retirement as Champion,” Diantha noted with a sympathetic smile.

“You're exactly right. I just wanted to read and understand Sinnoh's history, but most of the things happen one after another. And now, here I am, attending this call instead of our current Sinnoh Champion, Tobias.”

“I understand your pain, too. Alain and Calem are both excellently qualified as Kalos Champions, but they just wander around and help Professor Sycamore,” Diantha said, letting out a soft sigh.

“I don't understand them. Leon personally emailed all the Champions, yet they refused or ignored it. Unbelievable!” Steven said, crossing his arms.

“You could also have ignored it, Steven, and focused on your business affairs,” Wallace suggested smoothly.

“I could do it, but it's lame and disrespectful to my responsibility as a League Champion, even after someone personally emailed me,” Steven replied, his tone firm.

“You have a point. It is our responsibility as Champions when the Pokémon League Association trusts in us,” Lance agreed, nodding gravely.

“Huh? Really? I don't think so,” Nemona interjected, leaning back in her chair.

“What?!” Lance snapped, looking surprised.

“Winning the Champion title doesn't mean we have to do whatever the Pokémon League Association wants us to do. Sometimes, we pursue our own free will!” Nemona declared, pointing a finger at the screen.

“So you are indirectly saying the League just does things for its own benefit, without considering us as a priority?” Lance asked, narrowing his eyes.

“I didn't mean it like that, but sometimes the Pokémon League Association authorities want us to do as they want without asking for our consent,” Nemona explained, lowering her voice slightly.

“That is directly disrespecting a most honorable organization!” Lance said.

“But Mr. Lance, I agree with Nemona. Can't you see how the Pokémon League Association acts during some discussions? Especially after that unforgettable previous incident!” Gladion added, his glare sharpening.

“Sometimes, harsh decisions must be taken to secure citizens and regional relations!” Steven said, supporting Lance.

“But not as propaganda and for its own benefit!” Iris fired back, slamming her hand on her desk.

“You are all too young to understand how to deal with high-stakes events and what decisions to make,” Diantha said, taking Lance's side.

“Yet I think they still have some points. At least they should have communicated with us about what kind of actions were going to be taken,” Cynthia said, taking Nemona's side.

“Are you taking their side, Cynthia? Knowing everything that happened?” Lance asked, his eyes widening in disbelief.

“I didn't take anyone's side. It was just my opinion on this unnecessary topic,” Cynthia countered calmly.

“What do you mean 'unnecessary topic'? It's about a title you still hold!” Steven replied, raising his voice slightly.

“That's why I'm regretting it now,” Cynthia muttered under her breath, resting her forehead in her hand.

“What's your point? Clarify it,” Diantha asked, her expression serious.

“I just want to say this: as a worldwide, vast, and trusted organization, the Pokémon League Association should take action wisely. If they don't, then we have to face the consequences,” Cynthia cleared up, staring straight into her camera.

“Every action and decision has some consequences. We just have to figure out how to face them,” Steven said, shaking his head.

“I know that, well enough. But it is hard to put into practice rather than just talking about it,” Cynthia said quietly. “You don't know what kind of mess and chaos took shape in Sinnoh during that freaking incident! Normal citizens didn't want to hear any kind of excuses.”

Diantha replied gently, “It's not just happening in your region, Cynthia. The majority of regions faced something similar. We can't judge everything based on one event.”

“Other regions suffered from different crises, which I totally agree with, but those were operational crises, not a total collapse of trust!” Cynthia argued, her voice rising. “Crises can be resolved, but matters of trust and emotion require explanations and appropriate solutions!”

During the debate, the situation—which was already veering far away from the main topic—took a serious turn…

Gladion asked, “Why are you both silent, Ash and Wallace? What's your opinion on this topic?”

“I didn't want to share or get involved in this topic right now,” Wallace replied, fanning himself casually.

“Same goes for me. I'm not getting involved in this. It's just taking us away from the actual point of this web conference,” Ash said, giving his reason while crossing his arms.

“That's a good choice you both made, Ash and Wallace. I respect it.” Suddenly, a new screen popped up. It was Geeta, the Chairwoman of the Pokémon League Association. “Keeping away from fragile and debatable topics was a wise choice.”

“Miss Geeta! How do you know that when you just joined?” Nemona asked, her eyes popping open in shock.

“If you look at the screen carefully, not just me, but Leon has also already joined the conference.”

Everyone noticed that two more members were indeed online, though one person's mic and webcam were turned off.

“I already noticed it. Two more members were present when the argument was about to start between Lance and Nemona,” Tracey said, scratching the back of his neck nervously.

Ash turned and said, “Then why didn't you tell me?”

“Huh? Because it had already become so serious! I didn't know what to do—interfere or not!” Tracey whispered back, sweating slightly.

“And you decided not to interfere with them,” Gladion said, raising an eyebrow.

“I'm just an assistant of Professor Oak who looks after his work when he's not here. I have no right to interrupt between officials,” Tracey explained, bowing his head apologetically.

“It's a quick and smart choice in my opinion,” Steven said, adjusting his wrist watch. “I know how to react to serious business topics with much larger and more powerful companies.”

“Do not add your personal business affairs to this conference,” Cynthia said, her voice dropping into a cold, slightly rude tone.

Steven stiffened, but trying not to lose his temper, he replied in a surprisingly calm tone, “This is far more complex, dealing with business-minded people, than reading some words inscribed on stones!”

Cynthia kept her composure, but she responded with sharp venom, “I guess you're right, because inscribed words on stone are simple, but don't forget that those stones form your family's financial foundation!”

Steven fired back in a dangerously calm tone, “Yeah, my family likes to research stone inscriptions and ancient history, but sometimes it's just a false narrative spread by some inexperienced, arrogant archaeologists.”

“What? An inexperienced and arrogant archaeologist?! Hehe,” Cynthia let out a small, forced laugh, trying hard not to lose her cool. “Yeah, it's hard to believe, but there are also some corrupted and self-serving companies that are always spreading misleading information and building illegal relations, too!”

The matter between Cynthia and Steven became extremely serious. Both unintentionally crossed the line with their harsh words.

“Both of you, stop!” Geeta intervened, her authoritative voice filling the room. “We all know that all of our regional associations suffer from tremendous pressure. Not just you two, everyone feels the same pressure—not only physically, but also socially and mentally! And how can you disrespect each other's professions?”

After Geeta's interference between Steven and Cynthia, the room grew a little bit calm.

Wallace turned his gaze toward Steven, “Steven, you may have corporate pressure, but watch your words.”

“I'm sorry for that. There's just so much workload on me right now,” Steven said, closing his eyes and pressing his temples.

Diantha looked over at Cynthia, “Same goes for you, Cynthia. As an experienced archaeologist, you also have to understand other people's situations.”

“Please forgive my arrogant behavior. I just let out my frustration on others,” Cynthia replied, letting out a tired breath.

Geeta continued, “I heard all of your brief debates and thoughts on the Pokémon League Association. I know some decisions were delivered without majority consent, but during that period, they were clever and well-made laws to bring everything back to a decent condition.”

Geeta paused, looking at the younger Champions. “Like Nemona said, the League authorities should have at least informed us about those laws, but can you imagine how much pressure was on their shoulders? Everything was scattered like jigsaw pieces—trust, rules, infrastructure and human and pokemon lives!”

Nemona, Iris, and Gladion all lowered their heads at her words, unable to argue.

“And Lance, it's fine to stand up for responsibilities, but choosing to raise your voice against laws and systems is the most responsive and active thing to do for a better environment. Which you didn't do after the situation became stable.”

“As for my perspective, they were the best decisions and laws for that scenario. I didn't feel anything was wrong at that moment,” Lance replied, crossing his arms firmly.

Geeta said, “But just to clarify, not every organization is honorable. If it claims to be, understand that it is completely fake.”

Geeta continued, “No matter how pure a heart the person you meet has, they always hide their dark deeds.”

“I know that, Miss Geeta. That's just the nature of living,” Lance replied, bowing his head slightly.

Geeta said, “Lance, you're the most qualified person here, which is why I would appreciate it if you became the next Chairman of the Pokémon League Association.”

“That's too much for me, and I'm not at all interested in giving up my freedom by getting deeply involved with legal organizations, laws, and politics,” Lance replied, flatly refusing to become the Pokémon League Association Chairman.

Ash finally spoke up, “If everything is sorted out, can we get back to the main point of this video conference?”

“Hey Ash, I just noticed you and Pikachu are wrapped in bandages! Is something wrong?” Iris asked, pointing at her screen in surprise.

“Actually, I was defea—” Before Ash could finish his sentence, Tracey interfered and answered for him.

“Ash and Pikachu fell from a cliff! I'm so sorry! I asked Ash to help me with my research, and they both went to Mount Moon, where this accident happened!” Tracey said, placing his hands together in a desperate apologizing gesture.

Ash instantly realized why Tracey made up the random story. If I tell them about the mysterious trainer Kean, how he defeated me, and everything that happened throughout the day, it will probably create another chaotic moment!

With a silly, awkward smile, Ash rubbed the back of his neck. “Don't apologize, Tracey! It was my own stupidity, and that's why Pikachu and I ended up in bandages.”

Tracey replied, “Oh, thank you for forgiving me!” In his inner thoughts, he sighed with relief: Thank God you understood so quickly, Ash! It is definitely not necessary to tell everyone everything right now.

“Ash, you still don't get it, do you? You're still doing whatever you want like a silly boy! You're the World Champion!” Iris said.

“If everything is done, should I finally tell you why I gathered all of you here?” Leon's voice suddenly echoed as he un-muted his mic.

“So, it's finally about to start,” Gladion muttered, leaning forward.

To Be Continued in Part 02…

S1E05 :: Godly Ambition (part 02) : Kean

Pokémon Supreme

Both changed their destination towards the café. A few minutes later, at the café, a peaceful, less crowded area, after getting some rest and filling their empty stomachs…

“I'm refueled now! My brain is starting to work again.” Ash stood up with renewed energy, pumping his fist.

Leaf took a sip of her tea. “Still, we don't know how to track Mr. Unknown.”

“I'm not giving up that easily! We have to figure out why he attacked Gary and what he wants.” Ash's tone became deadly serious, his gaze sharpening.

Leaf's expression turned thoughtful. “The only thing we know about that red-eyed guy is that he has a Pokémon named Luraxian. He said it was an ancient Pokémon, the ancestor of Lucario.”

“But he said that all the evidence was destroyed in the blast. Even the Pokédex didn't have any information about Luraxian,” Ash said, leaning back with a sigh.

As the two were discussing how to find a clue about him, three robbers suddenly ran past, fleeing with money stolen from a nearby shop.

There were three robbers accompanied by three Pokémon: Machamp, Heracross, and Spearow.

“Big Brother, today we hit the jackpot!”

“Little Bro, this is just the beginning! We still have a lot of big things to do. Isn't that right, Heracross?”

“You're right, Big Bro! It's just the beginning. One day, we'll achieve every goal and live like kings!”

The shop owner was running right behind them, gasping heavily, "Wait! Someone help me! Those three are running away with my valuables!”

Seeing the daylight robbery, Ash could not stand by and stepped forward to stop them. Leaf tried to stop him, grabbing at his sleeve.

Ash stood directly in their way and said, “Stop right there! I'm not going to let you mess with innocent people!”

“Agh, who are you?” the leader sneered.

“I don't care who I am, but I won't let you take away someone's valuables for no reason!”

“Look, kid, you have unnecessarily gotten in the way of someone's work.”

“You'd be better off going and having a Pokémon battle rather than getting in the way of real business.”

Ash still did not move out of their way. Leaf ran up beside him and pleaded, “Ash, you don't have a Pokémon, and neither do I! It would be better if we let the police handle it!”

“Look, you don't have any Pokémon to stop us, so get out of the way!” the second robber warned.

“Both of you, please stop them! I have called the police, and they will be on their way!” the shop owner panted, clutching his knees for breath.

Then, people in the surrounding crowd began whispering nervously, "Don't you two love your lives? Those are the Hunting Brothers—they have a reward of over 100k on their heads!"

The shop owner snapped at the crowd, "Shut your mouths! If they are helping me, then let them do it! Don't listen to the rest of them, kids—they're all cowards!”

“You both are taking a stand for no good reason,” the leader growled.

“Shit, Big Bro, now the police are coming! What do we do now?” the third brother panicked.

“Machamp, Heracross! Attack them!”

The two Pokémon moved in to attack Ash. Even though Ash didn't have any Pokémon to defend himself, he had trained intensely for years with Pokémon, allowing him to read and evade oncoming attacks effortlessly.

Ash easily dodged Machamp and Heracross's attacks. Machamp tried to strike Ash with a punch, but Ash ducked under it just in time.

Heracross charged with its horn. Ash used himself as bait, leaping backward right before the attack landed. Machamp, who was trying to flank Ash from the side, accidentally stepped right into the path of Heracross's charge. The horn slammed straight into Machamp, knocking it out instantly.

“I may not have any Pokémon on me right now, but I have a lot of experience fighting alongside them and understanding their attacks!” Ash said, wiping his brow with a confident smirk.

“Bro, he defeated two of our best Pokémon!” the younger brother gasped, backing away.

“You probably didn't train your Pokémon well, which is why they lost so quickly,” Ash pointed out.

*Ash has spent a whole lifetime reading Pokémon movements, which is why he can dodge them even without a team,* Leaf thought, marveling at his quick reflexes.

“Yes, you're right. I don't want to train my Pokémon for no reason,” the leader sneered, stepping forward. “Because there are many things in the world besides Pokémon that are far better to focus on.”

“You saw how he almost defeated those Hunting Brothers without any Pokémon!” the nearby crowd murmured in awe.

The shop owner waved his arms in excitement. “You are amazing! You will defeat these three before the police arrive!”

“Now they only have Spearow left, but we still need to stay alert,” Leaf warned Ash, keeping her guard up.

“I will not let this happen!” one of the brothers barked. Taking out a knife, he lunged recklessly towards Ash. Ash raised his arms to take a defensive stance, but the brother suddenly shifted his target—aiming not at Ash, but at Leaf!

“Leaf, look out!” Ash yelled.

“I thought something like this would happen—attacking the girl first just to gain an advantage,” Leaf said through gritted teeth. She nimbly stepped aside, dodging the blade repeatedly. “I've never had to do anything like this before, but I can dodge your wild, sloppy attacks easily enough!”

Seeing his crew struggle, Big Brother—the leader—flared with sudden rage. How could two untrained teenagers humiliate his Pokémon and dodge a lethal blade?

“These youngsters are talented... but their futures end today!”

Saying this, the leader pulled a concealed gun from his jacket, aimed it directly at Leaf, and pulled the trigger.

As soon as the gunshot echoed through the air, bystanders screamed and scattered in terror. The bullet missed its mark—Ash tackled Leaf out of harm's way just before the shot was fired. But as he threw himself across her, he collided with the second brother's swinging knife, leaving a deep gash across his right shoulder!

“Ash, your right shoulder is bleeding!” Leaf cried out, terror in her eyes.

Ash clasped his bleeding arm in pain, trying desperately to push himself back up. But the leader stepped in and landed a vicious kick directly into his chest. Before Leaf could move to cover him, the leader swung around and delivered a hard slap across her face, sending her tumbling to the pavement.

“I told you not to get in our way. Today's youngsters are just a little too reckless. Playing the hero and helping others... but who's going to help you now? That shop owner hiding behind the pole?”

Saying this, he leveled the barrel of the gun straight at Leaf's head. Ash snapped, forcing himself up through the pain, and threw a wild punch at his face. But the leader casually blocked the strike with a single palm.

“You said I didn't train my Pokémon? Yeah, because I trained MYSELF instead.” The leader lashed out with a brutal, lightning-fast uppercut kick straight into Ash's jaw!

He followed it up with a barrage of relentless punches and heavy kicks. The strikes came with such frightening speed and weight that Ash couldn't find an opening to dodge or block. The leader brutally overwhelmed Ash in pure, bare-knuckle combat.

“What happened? You couldn't even land a single punch on me!” the leader taunted, throwing Ash to the asphalt. “I won underground ring fights where the trainers have to brawl right alongside their Pokémon! I'm not like you—sitting back safely and shouting orders. Sometimes you have to use your own fists and legs!”

“No matter how great of a Pokémon trainer you are, you're useless when you're forced into a real fistfight, kid!”

*Ash has endless experience reading Pokémon, but in physical combat against a seasoned underground fighter, he's completely outmatched,* Leaf realized, her heart sinking.

“Wait—” Leaf pushed herself up from the ground to intervene.

*BANG!*

A gunshot shattered the air, kicking up pavement inches from her knee. The leader glared at her with murderous, ice-cold eyes.

“I missed that one on purpose. Move another inch, and the next bullet goes through your skull.”

Ash was battered and gasping for air on the ground. The leader grabbed him by his collar and drove a heavy knee straight into his stomach, forcing Ash onto his hands and knees, throwing up blood. Leaf was frozen in absolute horror. If she moved, she would be shot. If she didn't, Ash would be beaten to death.

She was completely out of options.

Just then, a lone figure stepped out from the shadows of a nearby alley.

Leaf's eyes widened in sheer shock. *Those red eyes...*

He walked past the chaos with the exact same expressionless, stone-cold face—crimson eyes gleaming, radiating a suffocating, chilling presence. He casually strolled forward as if the violence wasn't even happening.

Desperate, Leaf clenched her trembling fists and cried out to him, “Hey! Red-eyes! I don't want to ask you for anything after what you did... but we have no choice! Please, help us!”

He didn't even slow down, completely ignoring her pleas with total silence.

“Hey! Didn't you hear me?! Please, I beg—”

“Leaf, stop!” Ash rasped, trying to drag himself upward. His legs trembled violently, his body completely battered, yet his eyes burned with refusal to beg from someone so ruthless. “I don't want... anyone's help...”

“Woah, this is getting way too dramatic! Did a fic-writter write this cheesy scene or what?” The leader burst out laughing, lowering his gun slightly.

“You are in my way. Move,” the red-eyed stranger said coldly, not even looking at the leader.

The third brother yelled angrily, "How dare you talk to our Big Bro in such an arrogant tone?!"

The second brother sneered, "Looks like we need to teach this arrogant kid a lesson, too!”

The leader grinned, pointing his gun at the stranger's chest. "It seems you didn't see what I just did to these two for getting in my way. You can't even touch me—”

Before he could finish his sentence, the red-eyed man reached out, palmed the leader's entire face, and violently shoved him aside like trash.

Enraged by the disrespect, the third brother commanded his Spearow, “Spearow, Wing Attack!”

As Spearow plummeted towards him, a blue figure dropped like a meteor from the roof above. Luraxian landed a devastating, overhead hammer-fist onto Spearow, slamming it straight into the pavement, unconscious.

Red-Eyes glanced sideways at Luraxian and said calmly, "So, your little free walk is over.”

Seeing their Pokémon flattened, both brothers pulled out their knives and lunged at him together. The red-eyed stranger didn't even flinch. He casually sidestepped the blades, delivered two precise chop strikes to their necks, and dropped both brothers instantly to the ground.

He turned toward the leader, who was scrambling back up to regain his footing. Without hesitation, the red-eyed stranger raised his boot and stamped down brutally onto the leader's face.

“I heard you so-called thieves have a reward of 100k,” he said, his voice flat and emotionless. He raised his foot and stomped down again, and again, relentlessly crushing the leader's face into the concrete until blood pooled beneath him.

Watching the horrific, unhinged violence, Ash couldn't take it anymore. He pushed through his agony and yelled at the top of his lungs, “STOP IT! You're beating him within an inch of his life when he can't even fight back anymore!”

He turned his eyes towards Ash, glaring at him with pure apathy. “So what?” As he spoke, Ash’s heart sank, filled with a pure, chilling dread from those emotionless crimson eyes.

The police arrived shortly after. Officers cuffed the robbers and retrieved their Pokémon.

Several officers thanked the group for helping the citizens catch the thieves. “Thank you very much! We really appreciate your help. Those three called themselves the Hunting Brothers and robbed people in broad daylight without any fear. But today, we’ve finally captured them. Thanks again!” The officers bowed respectfully.

“I don't care about your greetings,” the red-eyed trainer said rudely. “Where's the reward?”

“We will hand it over at the station, so please come with us,” an officer replied.

The shop owner stepped forward to thank the red-eyed trainer, Ash, and Leaf. “Thank you for helping a worthless man like me.”

Ash and Leaf immediately tried to stop him from putting himself down, but the red-eyed trainer sneered in a cold, brutal tone, “It serves you right. You’re nothing but a worthless life who depends on others.”

Ash’s anger flared, and he yelled at him, “How can you say that so easily?! He's not like you—he's not a ruthless person!”

The shop owner, however, hung his head, accepting the insult. “He's right... I'm nothing but a coward. While you two risked your lives against those dangerous criminals, I did nothing but hide like a useless piece of trash.”

Leaf stepped forward, her eyes glaring sharply at the red-eyed trainer. “Don't listen to someone like him! People like him only care about themselves and look down on everyone else.”

The stranger completely ignored her and turned to walk away. Surprisingly, Luraxian stepped up to the shop owner and gave him an encouraging, friendly smile, nudging him to stay positive.

*It's a complete polar opposite,* Leaf thought to herself, stunned by the contrast. *Luraxian's behavior is bright, warm, and friendly... while its trainer is completely merciless. A human without a heart.*

Ash stepped directly in front of the red-eyed trainer, blocking his path. “Why didn't you stop when he wasn't even attacking anymore? Why did you keep hurting him?”

“Why did you unnecessarily interfere when you had no power to stop them in the first place?” the stranger countered coldly.

“If something is wrong, why should I back down?!” Ash snapped. “I tried to help rather than stay behind like a coward!”

“Was that really the reason? Or do you just have a habit of playing the hero for no reason?”

Ash glared at him furiously. “Is helping a helpless person just 'playing hero' to you?!”

“Then go,” the red-eyed trainer replied smoothly. “Someone just had an accident in the back alley. He’s helpless too. Go help him.”

Ash gritted his teeth, refusing to back down from the taunt. “I can't save everyone! But if something bad is happening right in front of my eyes, I’m going to try and stop it!”

The red-eyed trainer stepped closer, lowering his voice into a chilling whisper. “That's noble. So answer one question for me: What will you do when your friends are in danger, but the world is also in danger? Who will you save first?”

Ash went completely quiet, the words catching in his throat.

“Don't tell me you would save both,” the stranger sneered quietly. “This exact choice happened to someone you know before. He abandoned the world to choose his own people... and now he's suffering the punishment for it, completely alone, secretly hiding from everyone. He lives as a rogue and a traitor in the eyes of his own people.”

Ash’s eyes widened in sheer shock. Terror seized his chest, his breathing becoming heavy and ragged. He panted, unable to form a single word.

“So tell me... what is your perspective of him now?” the stranger asked, leaning in closer. “After he betrayed you? After he disappeared? And now, after I’ve asked you this question... what do you really think about that person?”

He brushed past Ash's shoulder and whispered into his ear, “What's the difference between your previous naive talk and your current reality? Think about it... or go back to isolating yourself like you did before.”

He paused and called out over his shoulder, “Luraxian. If your friendly display is over, come on. We have to claim our reward.”

With that, the red-eyed trainer walked away, leaving Ash standing frozen in the middle of the street, completely speechless.

Leaf rushed over, concern etched across her face. “Ash! What happened? What did he say to you?!”

Ash’s hair shadowed his eyes as he stared down at the ground, speaking in a low, hollow voice. “He just asked me about my delusions.”

After everything was settled with the police, the two made their way back toward the Pokémon Center. The entire way back, Ash remained dead silent, completely lost in his thoughts. Leaf tried her best to lift his spirits.

“What a crazy, tough day... it’s evening already,” Leaf said, putting on a cheerful tone to break the heavy mood. “My stomach is completely empty again. I really want a warm, delicious dinner. How about you?”

“Yeah... me too...” Ash replied in a gloomy, distant tone.

Leaf stopped walking and turned to him. “Ash, what’s wrong? You’ve been acting like this ever since that red-eyed guy said something to you.”

“I’m just... a little lost in thought.”

“A little?!” Leaf pressed softly. “You’ve been completely out of it since this afternoon. What did he actually say to you?”

“He just wanted an answer to a question... one that I couldn't answer,” Ash admitted quietly.

“Can you tell me what he asked?”

Ash took a slow breath. “It wasn't much, Leaf. He asked... what you would do if you had to choose between saving your own people or saving the world.”

“Leaf, is that even a question?” Leaf blurted out instinctively. “I’d choose my own people—”

Before she could finish her sentence, her voice trailed off. The sheer weight and depth of the question suddenly hit her like a physical blow.

“Ash...” Leaf whispered, her eyes wide as the realization settled in. “Do you think... Red had to make a choice like that, too?”

“Yes,” Ash murmured quietly. “Maybe. It was presented as a question, but... he actually had to choose back then.”

Both of them stood in silence as the truth washed over them. At that terrible moment two years ago, Red had no real choice. To protect his home and the people he cared about, he was forced to turn his back on the rest of the world—and become a traitor in everyone else's eyes.

Both remained silent all the way; they had no answers. As the two approached the Pokémon Center, Pikachu ran out to Ash and hugged him. Ash saw Pikachu covered in bandages, but despite his injuries, he had been eagerly waiting for Ash to come back. Pikachu was overjoyed to see Ash, and in that moment, Ash felt something shatter inside him. He couldn't control his emotions any longer and pulled Pikachu into a desperate, tight hug.

Tears began to stream down his face as he felt a warmth he had been missing for far too long. “Pikachu, please forgive me! It's all because of me that you ended up in this condition... because of me and how weak I became. I couldn't face the truth. I thought I could fix everything, but those... Those red eyes made me realize that you can't always be right. You don't always have an answer unless you first understand the question.”

Ash wiped his eyes, his voice turning resolute. “All I know now is that I'm never going back into that extreme isolation. I won't back down ever again—not until I get answers to every single one of my questions!”

Leaf felt tears well up in her own eyes at the sight. Just then, the red-eyed trainer stepped out from the doors of the Pokémon Center.

Leaf noticed him immediately. Stepping into his path, she demanded, "What do you know about Red?”

He ignored her, attempting to walk past. She blocked him again, her eyes fierce: "I asked you what you know about Red! I’m not afraid of your eyes anymore!”

“I know just enough to make you realize the weight of your own decisions,” He replied coldly.

“That's not a real answer! Why can't you just say it straight?!” Leaf shouted.

“Leaf, stop. I don't need to hear anything else from his mouth,” Ash said, stepping in front. “I don't expect answers from him anymore. From now on, I will find all the answers myself.”

The red-eyed trainer paused, still having an expressionless face “So you finally understand. Some answers require first knowing the right question.” Saying this, he turned to walk away.

“Yes, I understand,” Ash said firmly, his gaze locked onto the stranger's back. “And now, I also want to know who you are. You suddenly appeared, challenged me physically and mentally, and now you're leaving like nothing in this world matters to you. I have a question for you: Who are you, and what is your purpose?”

The red-eyed trainer stopped in his tracks and turned around to face Ash. “Who am I? My name is Kean. And my Pokémon and I have had a single goal our entire lives... to take the place of Arceus.”

Hearing this, Ash, Pikachu, and Leaf were all stunned into utter silence.

Leaf stuttered, horror in her voice, “Take the place of Arceus?! The god of Pokémon... So you want to become a god?!”

“No,” Kean replied smoothly. “I am going to rise above that.”

A small, determined smile gradually appeared on Ash's face as he stared straight into Kean's cold eyes.

*So the red-eyed trainer who challenged me... his name is Kean. And he wants to rise above Arceus.*

“I will remember that, Kean,” Ash said, his voice ringing with absolute certainty. “I'll just say this much: One day, we will fight again. And when that day comes, I will stop you.”

Kean’s eyes narrowed slightly with dark amusement. “So you want to destroy my godly ambition? Interesting. Ash Ketchum… just remember that the world you have seen so far was just the beginning. What you are about to see now will change you forever.”

“Let's see if I change or not,” Ash countered, standing tall beside Pikachu.

Kean took his leave into the cold, bizarre evening, while Ash fixed his gaze ahead, filled with renewed courage and a newfound purpose.

*Kean,* Ash thought to himself, his inner fire reignited. *One day we will fight again... and I won't lose this time.*

Suddenly, Leaf's phone rang, shattering the heavy atmosphere. She pulled it out and looked at the screen in surprise. “Why is Tracey calling me?”

She answered, "Hello, Tracey?"

On the other end, Tracey's voice sounded frantic and out of breath. "Hello, Leaf! Are you with Ash?!”

"Yes, Ash is right here with me. What happened to your voice? Why do you sound so panicked?”

"I don't have time to explain the details right now! Just tell Ash to come to the lab immediately!”

"What happened all of a sudden?!” Leaf asked, her heart dropping.

"Leon has called an urgent meeting with all the Champions! He has something crucial to announce!”

*What could Leon possibly want to say that would force him to summon every official Pokémon League Champion across the regions?*

To Be Continued…

Ch.04 :: Godly Ambition: Fractured Bonds (Part 1)

Pokémon Supreme

At Pokémon Center,

Ash's motionless seat on a chair in the dark corridor of the operation room, red light reflected on the floor made completely lose his senses, “Those red-eyes I can't throw out of my mind.”

In a lost empty voice Ash muttered, “What did I do wrong? Why do those eyes haunt me.”

As the light turned off, nurse Joy came out of the room, Ash stood up and asked “How's pikachu?”

Nurse Joy's expression is filled with frustration, “I don't believe it. You call yourself a Champion and still you done such a horrible mistake if you be little late I don't think a innocent Pokemon I could save but don't worry he is safe now.”

As Ash heard this he took a deep relieved breath, “I think I lost my precious friend. Thank you so much nurse Joy for saving him.”

“Gratitude it because whichever opponent you fought, he calculated every attack on Pikachu, which made only critical conditions but did not damage any organs.”

“How long will it take to regain consciousness?” Ash asked

Nurse Joy replied “I'm sure but I prefer him to take enough rest to complete recovery.” As she looked at Ash's condition she gasped, “Don't take too much stress he's safe now, you also took some rest while you were here for 2 hours.”

In a depressed tone “Okay.” nurse Joy take her leave

Ash went from there and sat down at the resting area, He was still worried about pikachu. Then Leaf also came there, "What happened Ash, how is Pikachu now?”

“He's fine now, Nurse Joy said. He needs some rest.” Ash replied in an empty looks

Leaf tried to cheer him up “Don't think too much, just watch out, Pikachu will return to normal after he takes some rest.”

“How's Gary?" Ash asked

“He has gained consciousness, if you want you can meet him.” Leaf replied

Both went towards Gary's room, Ash hesitated a bit when he opened the door. Because Gary came back after one and half years.

Narrator :: When the Karkus incident ended, Red also disappeared. Despite extensive searches, Red was not found. Some officers say that Red has stayed hidden like a coward and some say he's no longer alive. Both Ash and Gary had their Pokemon licenses confiscated after they broke the rules during chaos. When the ban on them was removed, Gary left Pallet Town so he could find Red and answer some questions. From then till now it had been 1 and half year since Gary had left but today suddenly when Ash and Leaf who were his best friends saw him in such a condition in front of some unknown person they couldn't believe their reunion would be like this.

Leaf opened the door instead of Ash, Gary was sitting on his bed facing the window. Both entered the room.

Leaf asked, "Gary, are you okay? If not, we will come later.?”

Gary looked at both of them and said with a slight, calm smile, "I'm completely fine, It's just a minor injury.”

Both of them knew how much pain and suffering was hidden behind that calm smile. Despite this, neither of them reacted much so that Gary felt comfortable. Both sat on the stool, remained silent for some time, no one said anything.

Ash started to feel this uneasy silence, so he asked Gary about his condition.“So Gary you are alright.”

“Yes, I'm fine. By the way, Leaf also asked this question.” Gary replied

“You're right, I'm repeating the same question," Ash replied awkwardly

Silence reigned between them again. No matter how good a friend they are, circumstances silence everyone, even among their own people. Leaf understood that in a two years not only our world but also our friendship had changed.

Gary break the silence with involuntary smile.“What happened to both of you? Why have you become so silent all of a sudden?”

“Nothing, it's just that you came back after so long, so We don't understand what to say.” leaf replied in the sense of controlling the situation.

Gary in slow steady voice “You are right, I have come after a long time and that too in such a condition, of course you might be feeling a bit strange.”

“Gary, can I ask you something?” Ash said.

“Don't do this, I am still your friend, you can ask whatever you want.” Gary replied

“Although this may not be the right time, yet I'm doing hurry to ask you.” Ash felt his question doesn't related to current situation.

Gary asked in empty heavy tone “Is it about Red?”

Hearing this both of them were shocked, “no it was not about this, Ash isn't it?” Leaf looked at Ash, But Ash's expressions were telling everything, he wanted to know about this very question.

Leaf said to herself, "Ash don't, I also want to ask Gary, but this is not the right time to ask something like this."

Gary knows what she's thinking right now “Don't think too much Leaf, I don't have any problem.”

“I left pallet town because so I want answers of some questions from red which I able to get it.”

On hearing this, both of them faces fillied with hopes. They asked, “Did you find Red, did you find out anything about him, where did he, has he come with you?” So many questions with pure hope on their eyes

“I went to every place where I found signs of a Red, met every person who knew him, tried my best to find him, and finally, I found the answer to my journey.” Gary deeply empathetic voice, “He is no longer with us.”

Upon hearing this, all hope drained from their faces. They can't believe this.

“I thought I would make a fake story right away, but seeing the desperate hope on your eyes, I didn't have the courage to lie. The truth is that Red is no longer with us.”

Leaf was devastated by that answer. Tears started welling up in her eyes.

“how can you say this.” Ash asked in low voice, “did you find his body.”

“I tried and found him every places but in the end we've have to accept the truth.” Gary said

Sudden raise of Ash voice of furious, “HOW CAN YOU SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT, EVEN AFTER YOU DIDN'T GIVE EVERYTHING.”

“Ash calm down, I knew it there would be such reaction but this is the truth which you will have to accept.” Gary replied softly.

“I don't wanna calm after your non sense.” Ash snapped back, flatly denying the accusation.

“Ash, Please calm down," Leaf said anxiously.

“Cut it out Leaf, I don't wanna hear his unclear answers.” Ash shows no signs of calming down.

Gary stood up from bed, put hand on shoulders, “Ash, This is not your fault but you have to accept the truth.”

“I refused it regardless I'm 100% confirm.” Ash eyes burst with furious disbelief

“So you are saying that I did not give my 100%?” Gary eyes shadow by hair

“I had no expectations from you from start.” Ash crossed the limit of Gary's patiance

“Stop it Ash, you are talking too much in the heat of the moment.” Leaf stand between them

“So you are saying that the person who left his home and family and went away for 1 and a half years did not give his 100%.” Gary deepen his voice

“He didn't mean that, Gary." Leaf try to handle the situation

“Not that meant, I didn't think so.!!” Gary's patience finally snapped, and he yelled. Ash, if that's true, at least I did something. I wasn't hiding like a spineless coward for two long years like you, the great World Champion."

“What do you mean by that? Just spill it out clearly!” Ash losing patience

“I’m exhausted from chasing Red, unlike you, who just sits in a corner and sulks!” Gary lost his temper, “Every time Red comes into my life, it pushes me back to get ahead of himself, and I keep chasing it behind.”

“I'm done with this never ending chase, I'm done with rivalry, I'm done with the worst topic of my life Red.”

As soon as those words left Gary's mouth, an angry Ash lunged forward and grabbed his collar. “How can you say this, have you lost your mind.”

“Yes, I’ve lost my mind, and it’s all because of Red!”

Both were shouting so loudly that the atmosphere of the hospital was getting spoiled. Due to which nurse Joy came there “All of you shut off, this is a hospital, not a battlefield. If you are so keen on fighting, then go outside and fight, not here. Because of you, some patients are facing problems.”

Nurse Joy saw Ash misbehaving with her patient, grabbing him by the collar. She snapped, “All of you go out, the patient here needs rest, not noises.”

Ash left Gary's collar and took his leave, “You said it right, someone here needs too much rest.”

“I'm sorry for troubling you.” Then Ash took his leave

Leaf apologised “Forgive us nurse Joy, for troubling you. Gary, take some rest, I'll be back.” As she said, Leaf follows Ash.

Leaving the room, Ash walked down the hallway with heavy steps, his hands tightly clenched into fists. The furious outburst was clearly visible on his face. Every word Gary had yelled spun relentlessly inside his head.

“Ash! Wait!” Leaf hurried, her footsteps echoing behind him as she caught up before Ash could reach the exit gate of the Pokémon Center.

“Ash, where are you going?” Leaf asked, concerned about his reckless behavior.

Even though Ash's emotions were overflowing with rage, he couldn't lose his temper with her. In a low, heavy tone, he muttered, “I don't know. Maybe a place where I can find some peace.”

In a softened tone, Leaf said, “I'm coming with you.” Her eyes were fixed on him. Ash knew that even if he denied her, she would still follow him. He tightened his fists even more and stepped outside, just as he had expected her to follow.

After a few minutes of a silent walk, they arrived at a nearby park. In the middle of the afternoon, there wasn't much of a crowd. Ash took a seat on the edge of a bench, and Leaf sat on the opposite corner of the same bench. Both remained completely silent for quite a long time.

Leaf's inner thoughts: “\*Ash has never been this quiet. His mind is probably racing through so many things.\* Looking at the tense expression on Ash's face, Leaf started blaming herself for this. She broke the silence: “I'm sorry, Ash.”

Confused by Leaf's sudden apology, Ash asked, “For what?”

“For today. If I hadn't insisted on taking you to the local tournament, you would have been fine. You wouldn't have suffered this much today.” Blaming herself for everything, she added, “That's why I apologized to you.”

Ash turned his head to look at her, quiet in shock eyes, “Leaf…. don't say that.” Ash said softly, He looked down at his hands, unclenching his fists. “You were just trying to help me step out of the darkness. Besides, you're the one who suffers more than me and still couldn't act stupid like me.”

Leaf blinked, startled by his words. “Ash—”

“You had to watch me lose control, watch Pikachu get hurt like that, and then listen to Gary and me tear each other apart,” Ash continued, "You've been carrying so much just trying to keep us all together, and I just acted like an idiot.”

He paused, hair shadowed his eyes with the memory of those crimson red eyes. “Those red eyes didn't just defeat me, he knew how to break me with words.” Ash swallowed hard, “Gary’s hurting just as much as I am, isn't he? He and Blastoise were beaten worse than me.”

Leaf watched him, tears filled at the corners of her eyes, “Gary was frustrated, He didn't mean those horrible things what he said about you being a cowards.” She's said gently, “he was just exhaust of it all, we all exhaust by what karkus done, so you can't carry the whole weight of Red disappearance or Gary words or what happened to Pikachu on your own.”

Ash smile felt, look at Leaf determinated gaze with a small fragile spark return to his expression, “Thanks, I can't change what happens in today or what happened two years ago but now it's my time to stand again on feets, for that basterd red eyes— for hurting my friends, to find answers and this time I protect everyone.” Ash stoodup from bench clenched his fist with determination looks, “Once Pikachu recovers... I’m going to find out who that guy was, and why he has an ancient Pokémon like Luraxian.”

Leaf offered with a tiny hopeful smile, \*Ash I'm glad your back to ownself which is missing for two years of isolation.”

“Red eyes!!” Something clicked on his mind a confusing looks on face, “By the way, What was his name?”

A awkward silence between both of them, they're now realised that trainer hadn't even tell his name.

While Return to Pokemon Center, Ash felt like an idiot because he didn’t even know the name of the person who defeated him.

“I can't believe it.” Ash said “I yelled at him, charge at him, and he crushed me like nothing even that I didn't even his name. It's make me completely fool.”

“It's not your fault, not just you who lose temper against him.” Leaf let out a small, tired laugh. “even though I didn't fight him still how cold and terrified those red-eyes feels.”

Ash replied “His eyes were cold but not terrified me.” Sound heavy and serious “While those eyes looking at me, I felt like they want answers, a chill emotionless person who couldn't found an answer of… I don't know how to describe.”

Leaf muttered, “Even though we face same opponent but how our perspective completely different for him.”

Ash sighed, shaking his head, “I'm tired of thinking about that person.”

“You're right I also feel same, let's take some break.” Leaf also adds, both lose energy, “How about eat something first.”

A grawling sound form Ash stomach, lean down gesture “Your right, I'm hungry.”

Leaf couldn't help but let out a small laugh, “There's a cafe nearby let go.”

Continue In Part.02…..

At Pokémon Center,

Ash's motionless seat on a chair in the dark corridor of the operation room, red light reflected on the floor made completely lose his senses, “Those red-eyes I can't throw out of my mind.”

In a lost empty voice Ash muttered, “What did I do wrong? Why do those eyes haunt me.”

As the light turned off, nurse Joy came out of the room, Ash stood up and asked “How's pikachu?”

Nurse Joy's expression is filled with frustration, “I don't believe it. You call yourself a Champion and still you done such a horrible mistake if you be little late I don't think a innocent Pokemon I could save but don't worry he is safe now.”

As Ash heard this he took a deep relieved breath, “I think I lost my precious friend. Thank you so much nurse Joy for saving him.”

“Gratitude it because whichever opponent you fought, he calculated every attack on Pikachu, which made only critical conditions but did not damage any organs.”

“How long will it take to regain consciousness?” Ash asked

Nurse Joy replied “I'm sure but I prefer him to take enough rest to complete recovery.” As she looked at Ash's condition she gasped, “Don't take too much stress he's safe now, you also took some rest while you were here for 2 hours.”

In a depressed tone “Okay.” nurse Joy take her leave

Ash went from there and sat down at the resting area, He was still worried about pikachu. Then Leaf also came there, "What happened Ash, how is Pikachu now?”

“He's fine now, Nurse Joy said. He needs some rest.” Ash replied in an empty looks

Leaf tried to cheer him up “Don't think too much, just watch out, Pikachu will return to normal after he takes some rest.”

“How's Gary?" Ash asked

“He has gained consciousness, if you want you can meet him.” Leaf replied

Both went towards Gary's room, Ash hesitated a bit when he opened the door. Because Gary came back after one and half years.

Narrator :: When the Karkus incident ended, Red also disappeared. Despite extensive searches, Red was not found. Some officers say that Red has stayed hidden like a coward and some say he's no longer alive. Both Ash and Gary had their Pokemon licenses confiscated after they broke the rules during chaos. When the ban on them was removed, Gary left Pallet Town so he could find Red and answer some questions. From then till now it had been 1 and half year since Gary had left but today suddenly when Ash and Leaf who were his best friends saw him in such a condition in front of some unknown person they couldn't believe their reunion would be like this.

Leaf opened the door instead of Ash, Gary was sitting on his bed facing the window. Both entered the room.

Leaf asked, "Gary, are you okay? If not, we will come later.?”

Gary looked at both of them and said with a slight, calm smile, "I'm completely fine, It's just a minor injury.”

Both of them knew how much pain and suffering was hidden behind that calm smile. Despite this, neither of them reacted much so that Gary felt comfortable. Both sat on the stool, remained silent for some time, no one said anything.

Ash started to feel this uneasy silence, so he asked Gary about his condition.“So Gary you are alright.”

“Yes, I'm fine. By the way, Leaf also asked this question.” Gary replied

“You're right, I'm repeating the same question," Ash replied awkwardly

Silence reigned between them again. No matter how good a friend they are, circumstances silence everyone, even among their own people. Leaf understood that in a two years not only our world but also our friendship had changed.

Gary break the silence with involuntary smile.“What happened to both of you? Why have you become so silent all of a sudden?”

“Nothing, it's just that you came back after so long, so We don't understand what to say.” leaf replied in the sense of controlling the situation.

Gary in slow steady voice “You are right, I have come after a long time and that too in such a condition, of course you might be feeling a bit strange.”

“Gary, can I ask you something?” Ash said.

“Don't do this, I am still your friend, you can ask whatever you want.” Gary replied

“Although this may not be the right time, yet I'm doing hurry to ask you.” Ash felt his question doesn't related to current situation.

Gary asked in empty heavy tone “Is it about Red?”

Hearing this both of them were shocked, “no it was not about this, Ash isn't it?” Leaf looked at Ash, But Ash's expressions were telling everything, he wanted to know about this very question.

Leaf said to herself, "Ash don't, I also want to ask Gary, but this is not the right time to ask something like this."

Gary knows what she's thinking right now “Don't think too much Leaf, I don't have any problem.”

“I left pallet town because so I want answers of some questions from red which I able to get it.”

On hearing this, both of them faces fillied with hopes. They asked, “Did you find Red, did you find out anything about him, where did he, has he come with you?” So many questions with pure hope on their eyes

“I went to every place where I found signs of a Red, met every person who knew him, tried my best to find him, and finally, I found the answer to my journey.” Gary deeply empathetic voice, “He is no longer with us.”

Upon hearing this, all hope drained from their faces. They can't believe this.

“I thought I would make a fake story right away, but seeing the desperate hope on your eyes, I didn't have the courage to lie. The truth is that Red is no longer with us.”

Leaf was devastated by that answer. Tears started welling up in her eyes.

“how can you say this.” Ash asked in low voice, “did you find his body.”

“I tried and found him every places but in the end we've have to accept the truth.” Gary said

Sudden raise of Ash voice of furious, “HOW CAN YOU SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT, EVEN AFTER YOU DIDN'T GIVE EVERYTHING.”

“Ash calm down, I knew it there would be such reaction but this is the truth which you will have to accept.” Gary replied softly.

“I don't wanna calm after your non sense.” Ash snapped back, flatly denying the accusation.

“Ash, Please calm down," Leaf said anxiously.

“Cut it out Leaf, I don't wanna hear his unclear answers.” Ash shows no signs of calming down.

Gary stood up from bed, put hand on shoulders, “Ash, This is not your fault but you have to accept the truth.”

“I refused it regardless I'm 100% confirm.” Ash eyes burst with furious disbelief

“So you are saying that I did not give my 100%?” Gary eyes shadow by hair

“I had no expectations from you from start.” Ash crossed the limit of Gary's patiance

“Stop it Ash, you are talking too much in the heat of the moment.” Leaf stand between them

“So you are saying that the person who left his home and family and went away for 1 and a half years did not give his 100%.” Gary deepen his voice

“He didn't mean that, Gary." Leaf try to handle the situation

“Not that meant, I didn't think so.!!” Gary's patience finally snapped, and he yelled. Ash, if that's true, at least I did something. I wasn't hiding like a spineless coward for two long years like you, the great World Champion."

“What do you mean by that? Just spill it out clearly!” Ash losing patience

“I’m exhausted from chasing Red, unlike you, who just sits in a corner and sulks!” Gary lost his temper, “Every time Red comes into my life, it pushes me back to get ahead of himself, and I keep chasing it behind.”

“I'm done with this never ending chase, I'm done with rivalry, I'm done with the worst topic of my life Red.”

As soon as those words left Gary's mouth, an angry Ash lunged forward and grabbed his collar. “How can you say this, have you lost your mind.”

“Yes, I’ve lost my mind, and it’s all because of Red!”

Both were shouting so loudly that the atmosphere of the hospital was getting spoiled. Due to which nurse Joy came there “All of you shut off, this is a hospital, not a battlefield. If you are so keen on fighting, then go outside and fight, not here. Because of you, some patients are facing problems.”

Nurse Joy saw Ash misbehaving with her patient, grabbing him by the collar. She snapped, “All of you go out, the patient here needs rest, not noises.”

Ash left Gary's collar and took his leave, “You said it right, someone here needs too much rest.”

“I'm sorry for troubling you.” Then Ash took his leave

Leaf apologised “Forgive us nurse Joy, for troubling you. Gary, take some rest, I'll be back.” As she said, Leaf follows Ash.

Leaving the room, Ash walked down the hallway with heavy steps, his hands tightly clenched into fists. The furious outburst was clearly visible on his face. Every word Gary had yelled spun relentlessly inside his head.

“Ash! Wait!” Leaf hurried, her footsteps echoing behind him as she caught up before Ash could reach the exit gate of the Pokémon Center.

“Ash, where are you going?” Leaf asked, concerned about his reckless behavior.

Even though Ash's emotions were overflowing with rage, he couldn't lose his temper with her. In a low, heavy tone, he muttered, “I don't know. Maybe a place where I can find some peace.”

In a softened tone, Leaf said, “I'm coming with you.” Her eyes were fixed on him. Ash knew that even if he denied her, she would still follow him. He tightened his fists even more and stepped outside, just as he had expected her to follow.

After a few minutes of a silent walk, they arrived at a nearby park. In the middle of the afternoon, there wasn't much of a crowd. Ash took a seat on the edge of a bench, and Leaf sat on the opposite corner of the same bench. Both remained completely silent for quite a long time.

Leaf's inner thoughts: “*Ash has never been this quiet. His mind is probably racing through so many things.* Looking at the tense expression on Ash's face, Leaf started blaming herself for this. She broke the silence: “I'm sorry, Ash.”

Confused by Leaf's sudden apology, Ash asked, “For what?”

“For today. If I hadn't insisted on taking you to the local tournament, you would have been fine. You wouldn't have suffered this much today.” Blaming herself for everything, she added, “That's why I apologized to you.”

Ash turned his head to look at her, quiet in shock eyes, “Leaf…. don't say that.” Ash said softly, He looked down at his hands, unclenching his fists. “You were just trying to help me step out of the darkness. Besides, you're the one who suffers more than me and still couldn't act stupid like me.”

Leaf blinked, startled by his words. “Ash—”

“You had to watch me lose control, watch Pikachu get hurt like that, and then listen to Gary and me tear each other apart,” Ash continued, "You've been carrying so much just trying to keep us all together, and I just acted like an idiot.”

He paused, hair shadowed his eyes with the memory of those crimson red eyes. “Those red eyes didn't just defeat me, he knew how to break me with words.” Ash swallowed hard, “Gary’s hurting just as much as I am, isn't he? He and Blastoise were beaten worse than me.”

Leaf watched him, tears filled at the corners of her eyes, “Gary was frustrated, He didn't mean those horrible things what he said about you being a cowards.” She's said gently, “he was just exhaust of it all, we all exhaust by what karkus done, so you can't carry the whole weight of Red disappearance or Gary words or what happened to Pikachu on your own.”

Ash smile felt, look at Leaf determinated gaze with a small fragile spark return to his expression, “Thanks, I can't change what happens in today or what happened two years ago but now it's my time to stand again on feets, for that basterd red eyes— for hurting my friends, to find answers and this time I protect everyone.” Ash stoodup from bench clenched his fist with determination looks, “Once Pikachu recovers... I’m going to find out who that guy was, and why he has an ancient Pokémon like Luraxian.”

Leaf offered with a tiny hopeful smile, *Ash I'm glad your back to ownself which is missing for two years of isolation.”

“Red eyes!!” Something clicked on his mind a confusing looks on face, “By the way, What was his name?”

A awkward silence between both of them, they're now realised that trainer hadn't even tell his name.

While Return to Pokemon Center, Ash felt like an idiot because he didn’t even know the name of the person who defeated him.

“I can't believe it.” Ash said “I yelled at him, charge at him, and he crushed me like nothing even that I didn't even his name. It's make me completely fool.”

“It's not your fault, not just you who lose temper against him.” Leaf let out a small, tired laugh. “even though I didn't fight him still how cold and terrified those red-eyes feels.”

Ash replied “His eyes were cold but not terrified me.” Sound heavy and serious “While those eyes looking at me, I felt like they want answers, a chill emotionless person who couldn't found an answer of… I don't know how to describe.”

Leaf muttered, “Even though we face same opponent but how our perspective completely different for him.”

Ash sighed, shaking his head, “I'm tired of thinking about that person.”

“You're right I also feel same, let's take some break.” Leaf also adds, both lose energy, “How about eat something first.”

A grawling sound form Ash stomach, lean down gesture “Your right, I'm hungry.”

Leaf couldn't help but let out a small laugh, “There's a cafe nearby let go.”

Continue In Part.02…..

Ch.03 :: Haunted Red-eyes ::

As the smoke cleared, a trainer with crimson-red eyes stood in front of Ash and Leaf. The stadium was cracked, the ground was completely destroyed, and Gary and Blastoise were both unconscious. From all this, it was clear that the red-eyed trainer had done it all. Ash angrily asked him,

"Are you the one who did this?”

Without any expression, he replied coldly, “What would you do if I did?”

“Why?” Ash felt pure rage, tightening his fists. “What do you get by destroying everything?”

He responded in an emotionless tone, “Without knowing anything, you can only talk nonsense, isn't that right, World Champion?”

“Yes, I don't know, and I don't even want to know about you,” Ash replied, his eyes locked on him.

“Pika!” Seeing Blastoise in such a dreadful state filled Pikachu with intense rage.

“Ash, calm down! I also feel frustrated after seeing Gary in such a condition, but don't lose your temper. That might be exactly what he wants,” Leaf said, trying to help Ash understand the opponent's tactics.

Then, the red-eyed person turned around to leave, saying coldly, “I'm not here to face such a pathetic trainer.” He had indirectly disrespected Gary, which made Ash and Pikachu lose their tempers completely.

“Stop right there, you bastard!” Ash shouted at him in a fit of rage, losing no time. Pikachu attacked him with Volt Tackle.

“Pika-pika... pi-ka!” causing a heavy impact that kicked up a violent gust of wind.

Leaf shouted, “Ash!! I told you to not fall for his tricks!”

“I'm sorry, but he just disrespected Gary, and I don't like it,” Ash replied, extreme rage clearly visible in his eyes.

I knew it, Leaf thought worriedly. *After the Karkus incident, Ash hasn't been able to control his emotions, especially towards someone who disrespects his friends.*

As the smoke cleared from the Volt Tackle attack, that person hadn't even flinched an inch. Both Ash and Leaf were stunned. How could anyone block or dodge such a lightning-fast attack? Standing right in front of the stranger was a blue, wolf-like creature with white fur on its chest and golden eyes. It stood on two legs wearing red boxing gloves, casually holding Pikachu's head in its hand.

“Did that unknown Pokémon stop Pikachu's Volt Tackle with a single hand?” Leaf gasped, completely caught by surprise.

“Impossible!!” Ash was also a little shocked.

The red-eyed person calmly said, “Nothing is impossible, except your discussions.”

That unknown Pokémon tightened its grip so hard that Pikachu started feeling immense pain. “Pikaaaaaaa!!!” Pikachu's painful screams started echoing through the stadium.

Leaf's shocked eyes couldn't believe what she was seeing. “This way, he will crush Pikachu's head! Ash, do something!” As she turned her head towards Ash, she saw him standing completely paralyzed.

She shouted at him, “Ash! Why are you standing still? Do something!”

“Luraxian,” the red-eyed person said calmly. With that, the Pokémon threw Pikachu brutally, slamming him against the wall. “Don't just stand there like a ghost, World Champion. If you can't accept reality, you cannot face the consequences.” Ash regained his senses and rushed towards Pikachu.

Leaf pulled out her Pokédex to identify it, but there was no data available. “What's that Pokémon? I've never seen it before.”

“There is no point looking it up in those digital encyclopedias. There is no data available on Luraxian because it isn't from this century," the red-eyed person said, glaring at Leaf.

“What do you mean, 'not from this century'?” Leaf asked.

“Luraxian was an ancient Pokémon that lived on Earth millions of years ago. Then, an ice age started, which completely drove their species to extinction.”

“If they're extinct, how is he standing before us?” Leaf interrupted the red-eyed person, so many questions flooding her brain.

“It's because many years ago, some explorers found a Luraxian skeleton in the deepest ice cave. It was considered the greatest discovery ever. It wasn't just a skeleton; it also had flesh on it. The cold ice had completely frozen the organs, even though the cells of the tissue were dead. But they decided to do research on it and wanted to bring the species back to life. After many years of hard work, they had to accept a harsh truth...”

“Because of what?” Leaf gasped.

“No matter how hard a person tries, he cannot bring the dead back to life—unless he sacrifices innocent souls.”

“Their obsession grew so great that they experimented on various Pokémon species. But it didn't stop there. As someone became greedy to achieve their goals, they lost their sense of what's right and wrong. Similar happens to them, their obsession became so great that innocent human live became the victims of the experiment. The government had even banned this, yet they continued their work illegally, hiding in the shadows. All so that one day they could achieve a new success for humanity over Pokémon. And it so happened that after a few months, they succeeded. But then, the authorities found them and blew up the entire lab. The authorities felt that everything was over and all the evidence was gone—except for one. The actual subject ran away from there, and I found him,” the red-eyed person explained to Leaf.

Leaf's reaction was one of complete shock. She couldn't accept such a horrific thing.

The red-eyed person continued, “Luraxian is a highly unique, mythical Fighting-type Pokémon. The theory is that Luraxian is known as the ancient ancestor of the famous Pokémon species: Lucario.”

In absolute disbelief, Leaf repeated, “An ancient ancestor of Lucario?!”

“I and Luraxian just wanted to test our limits—how far we'll go and how much stronger the opponents we are able to defeat. But I doubt a World Champion can even scratch us.” The red-eyed person's expressionless look showed he had lost all desire to fight against Ash.

Ash approached Pikachu, who was in terrible shape after just a simple throw.

“So you're just fighting against strong trainers to test your strength?” Leaf asked the red-eyed trainer.

“What will happen if I say yes?” the red-eyed trainer said casually and coldly, seeming to be testing the limits of their patience.

Leaf couldn't take it anymore. She said angrily, shouting at him, “Do you think all this is a joke?! Is it fun for you to crush anyone with your strength? Why do you do this?!”

Without any expression, he replied in a brutal tone, “I don't think you would understand, because you are living among the pathetics.”

Pikachu attacked him with Thunderbolt, but the trainer easily dodged the attack. Ash was absolutely furious, his voice clearly indicating he was consumed by rage. “Who gave you the right to insult anyone?! You have no right to make fun of my friends! Gary is my best friend and my rival. He's a million times greater of a trainer than someone like you!”

The red-eyed trainer answered, completely ignoring Ash's lecture, “I thought you were going to attack Luraxian, but no, your target is me. It seems the World Champion forgot the rules of a Pokémon battle.”

Seeing his mockery, Ash and Pikachu could not resist and started attacking blindly. “Pikachu, let's show him how to play the game with rules! Volt Tackle!”

“Pikaaaaaaa… pikaaaaaaa… pika-chuuuu!” Pikachu, fully charged, rocketed towards Luraxian to close the distance!

Pikachu is charging at full force with a devastating Volt Tackle! How does the mysterious Luraxian react to this blind, rage-fueled attack?

Leaf was thinking in her mind, “That red-eyed guy easily dodged Pikachu's Thunderbolt without even moving from his spot. He is not an average trainer; this is something dangerous.”

Leaf looked at Ash and said to him, “Ash, be careful! He is not an ordinary trainer.”

“Thanks Leaf, I know that already! Just keep watching how I take down the arrogance of this bastard.” As Ash said this, Pikachu used Volt Tackle in a zigzag format, shattering a stone lying on the ground to use it as a decoy. Gradually, a dust screen formed, and Pikachu's speed began to increase rapidly.

Leaf understood Ash's trick against Luraxian. *This is a great strategy. Now Luraxian doesn't know where Pikachu will attack from... but will it really do anything?* Leaf was still worried whether this simple trick would work or not.

A slight smile appeared on Ash's face. “I know this is a very simple trick, but when me and Pikachu give our 100%, even an ordinary move becomes special.”

But as soon as Ash looked at those red eyes, he realized the trainer was looking directly at him. That stranger's entire concentration was on Ash alone—no movement, no expression, just his cold red eyes locked on him. Pikachu was attacking Luraxian with electric shocks and debris, but the Pokémon was simply staying in its place and effortlessly avoiding every single one.

Then, the red-eyed trainer said to Ash, “Above.”

Hearing this, Ash started sweating and muttered frantically, “How did he know? Can he read minds?” He quickly shouted, “Pikachu, now! Use a fully charged Thundershock!”

Before Pikachu could do anything, Luraxian caught him with extreme speed despite the dust screen. The ancient Pokémon delivered a tight punch to the belly, causing Pikachu to slam backwards. But this time, Pikachu couldn't regain his position. Another punch landed, causing blood to spill, then an uppercut lifted the Pikachu into the air and a follow-up strike smacked him violently to the ground. Luraxian then caught Pikachu's tail and violently slammed him against the surface again, and again, and again….

The smile that was on Ash's face just seconds ago completely faded, his pride shattering with each attack. Slowly, sheer terror crept over him as he watched Pikachu in such a helpless condition.

Leaf saw this and tears welled up in her eyes. “Stop it,” she slowly raised her voice. “I said, stop it!” Then, screaming at the top of her lungs, she cried, “Stop it! He'll die!”

Through it all, the gaze of those red eyes remained fixed on Ash.

“That's enough now! You've won, so stop now!” Leaf screamed, putting all her remaining strength into the shout.

Luraxian stopped. It grabbed Pikachu by the ears—Pikachu was now in a horrific, barely conscious state—and delivered a brutal Mega Punch, sending him crashing extremely hard against the wall.

Seeing this, Ash ran towards Pikachu. When he saw his partner's condition, it was beyond description—he had been completely and utterly dominated by Luraxian and that trainer.

The red-eyed person started leaving, saying only, “This is the price of your negligence. Accept it, or be prepared to live like this. Because this reality is a lesson for you.”

He left after inflicting so much damage, leaving behind a dreadful, chilling silence in their hearts.

To Be Continued....

Ch.02 :: A Supreme Invitation

The Karkus incident not only gave Ash nightmares, but it also left the world's best trainers with wounds that might heal physically but are emotionally impossible to heal. The world of Pokémon that you see has now completely changed. Karkus caused a lot of havoc to achieve his foolish goal. He created a terrifying reputation everywhere, from ordinary people to Pokémon, who cannot forget him.

But one day, an unknown person suddenly defeated him and his entire team at the Lake of Sunset. After that, it took some time for everything to recover. All the Pokémon League members worked hard to get everything back to normal. There was a tournament in the Galar region.

“So, welcome, my dear Galarian people, this evening in the name of a new autumn.” The referee was filled with enthusiasm, motivated by the people in the stadium.

“Hold your breath and sit tight, because now we are moving towards the final battle.”

There was a lot of noise from the crowd in the stadium filled with extreme excitement.

“So get ready, because our finalists have arrived—those who have brought the seeds of their research and passion for the pride of our region and the identity of the next generation. The finalist—Hop.”

Hop came to the stadium with full confidence on his face. The stadium filled with excitement.

“And on the other hand, the person who faces our hope is no ordinary person. The one who held the title of world champion for years, who took the game to new heights, and whom all trainers dream of fighting once. The one and only, the Galar region's greatest trainer and former world champion, Leon!"

Leon's entry created chaos in the entire stadium. Everyone was shouting Leon's name loudly. Leon also responded by throwing up his cap and giving his iconic pose.

“Now only this was missing; Leon's arrival brought a different kind of excitement to the stadium,” Raihan said to Nessa, both sitting in the audience seats.

“Leon is the glory of Galar, so this was bound to happen,” Nessa replied, also impressed with the tournament.

“People are having a lot of fun, too,” Raihan said with a chill look.

“Yeah. After so many things happened, this was a perfect way to bring everyone together,” Nessa replied.

“I want to see who wins the fight between Leon and Hop,” Sonia said, unable to wait as excitement flowed through her body.

“I'm also waiting for the match to start," Nessa added.

“What are you talking about? Hop may be strong, but he still has a long way to go to catch up with Leon,” Raihan said, chilling in his seat.

“By the way, where is our current Galar champion, Gloria?” Nessa asked Sonia.

“Gloria is currently in the Paldea region, doing some kind of work at the Pokémon League Headquarters,” Sonia said, taking a sip of her smoothie.

“Work for the Pokémon League? It seems like they are hiding a secret,” Raihan said, suspicious about something.

“You seem to be suspectful a lot these days,” Nessa said after seeing his suspicious expression.

“Guys, the match is about to start!” Sonia tells the other two.

“So, are you ready, big bro?” Hop asked Leon with a confident smile.

“I like this confidence, Hop. I hope you are more experienced now than before, so you can show me what you can do.” As Leon said this, he threw his Poké Ball, and Charizard came out.

“Woah! Leon sends out Charizard to start the match!” the referee shouted loudly to increase the enthusiasm of the audience.

“It's obvious that Leon will choose Charizard,” Nessa said.

“As I thought, you are putting in your full effort. So, I too will not back down! Show everyone your strength, Cinderace!” Hop called out his Cinderace with pure positivity.

“Fire against fire—this is going to be amazing,” Raihan said, leaning forward in his seat with a look of excitement.

“Let's go, Cinderace! Use a Pyro Ball!" Hop started first without losing any time. Cinderace's spirit was clearly shown in its attack—showing true passion and dedication to deliver a proper match.

“That's the spirit, Hop! You're not holding anything back, and neither will we!” Leon shouted, his eyes shining with pride at how much his little brother had grown. Charizard roared in agreement, ready to meet the blazing attack head-on. “Charizard, use Air Slash to deflect the ball!”

“Thanks, big brother, but we're not going to lose that easily! Cinderace, dodge the incoming attack!” Hop's eyes were filled with pure joy. Cinderace dodged successfully and landed right behind Charizard. “Let's show them how strong we've become! Use a Double Kick!” Cinderace's attack landed on Charizard from behind.

“Excellent speed, Hop! You and Cinderace are perfectly in sync!” Leon called out, a massive grin on his face as he watched Charizard take the hit. Charizard stumbled forward from the impact but quickly turned around, shaking off the damage with a fierce, competitive growl. “But we aren’t going down that easily either! Charizard, use Dragon Claw!”

“That was fast! Cinderace can't dodge it quickly,” was Hop's inner thought. “Cinderace, Protect yourself!”

Charizard's claws glowed with green energy and struck, but they slammed right into the shimmering green barrier that formed just in time. “Smart move, Hop! Your reaction time has gotten so much faster!” Leon cheered, genuinely impressed by his brother's quick thinking. “You didn't let the pressure get to you at all!”

“That was unbelievable! Hop didn't just dodge Charizard's attacks, he's also giving him a proper, toe-to-toe match! Now, that's spirit!” The referee announced the match details to the audience.

“Both are doing better than I thought,” Nessa shared her thoughts with Raihan and Sonia.

“He has trained hard so that one day he can match Leon head-to-head,” Sonia said, looking appreciatively towards Hop.

“Hmph, Cinderace has taken a decent amount of damage. What do you think, Marnie?” Piers said. Both were at the stadium's main entrance, watching the match on a TV screen.

“Still, he has enough strength to make the former champion struggle,” Marnie replied to Piers while focusing on her Rotom Phone.

“Cinderace, use Fire Punch!” Hop called out his next move before Charizard could make a single movement. Hop’s face lit up with a determined grin, his eyes locked onto the battlefield with absolute focus.

“Right on target, Hop! You aren't giving us a single second to breathe, are you?” Leon laughed heartily, his heart racing with pure excitement as the blazing fist connected. Charizard was pushed back by the force of the punch, its chest smoking, but it roared with absolute delight. Leon pointed toward the sky. “We love a fiery battle! Let's heat things up even more! Charizard, use Flamethrower!”

“I knew it! You're attacking from above! Cinderace, Ember!” Both fire attacks clashed, creating a small explosion, but right through the smoke, Cinderace landed a Mega Kick on Charizard's belly, which left everyone a little surprised.

“That's a direct hit!” The referee shouted loudly, his voice echoing through the whole stadium. “Before the smoke could clear, Cinderace suddenly appeared and attacked Charizard with a Mega Kick, knocking Charizard off balance and sending him crashing to the ground!”

“Unbelievable! I didn't see that coming at all!” Leon gasped, his eyes widening in pure shock and admiration. He watched as his ace crashed heavily into the dirt, kicking up a massive cloud of dust. Leon quickly recovered his signature, confident grin as the dust began to settle. “Using the smoke as a screen for a physical strike... that was a masterpiece of a strategy, Hop! You truly are a top-tier trainer now!” From the ground, Charizard pushed itself up onto its hands and knees, shaking its head to clear the cobwebs, its tail flame burning hotter than ever as it glared back at Cinderace with fierce respect.

“It's not finished yet! Finish this before Charizard regains his posture! Giga Impact!” Hop didn't want to give Leon a chance to think, but he forgot he was facing one of the strongest trainers in the world. With an impressed smile, Leon commanded Charizard: “An incredible rush, Hop! But you've left yourself wide open! Charizard, meet them head-on! Use Blast Burn!” With a roar that shook the very foundation of the stadium, Charizard slammed its fists into the earth, unleashing a violent torrent of molten fire and exploding pillars of magma right in Cinderace's path.

Blast Burn threw Cinderace to the ground, but it regained its poise quickly. With those consecutive attacks, the audience was filled with pure excitement. Some cheered for Hop and Cinderace, and some showed support for Leon and Charizard.

"Woah, woah, woah! These two are filling the audience with extreme fire—that's what a real match looks like! Let's see who is going to win this!” the referee added.

“Incredible! Cinderace took a direct Blast Burn and stood right back up!” Leon said, clapping his hands together with genuine pride and a warm, brotherly smile. “Your partner's determination is absolutely beautiful, Hop. You two have built an unbreakable bond. But Giga Impact has a recharge turn too! It looks like both of our partners are pushed to their absolute limits. Let's see who can break through first!”

“Hop, look! Everyone who is watching this match has a flame burning inside them—they are supporting you and me! Even though far worse happened previously, we have to move forward. That is the real trainer spirit!” Leon felt the power of the moment. He took a deep breath and, with a passionate fire in his eyes, said, “Now it's time to show them the true climax, Charizard!” Leon used Gigantamax!

Leon recalled Charizard into its Poké Ball as the ball grew to a massive size, pulsing with dark pink Dynamax energy. With a powerful, two-handed throw, he sent it crashing back into the stadium. Gigantamax Charizard erupted onto the battlefield, its colossal wings of pure flame illuminating the entire stadium, letting out a roar that shook the stadium seats.

“Let’s see everything you’ve got, Hop! Show me the full power of your bond!” Leon cheered, his face glowing with pure excitement.

“Understood! Cinderace, let's do this!” Hop also responded by Gigantamaxing! Hop recalled Cinderace into its Poké Ball, watching the sphere grow massive as a swirl of dark pink energy surrounded it. With a passionate shout, he hurled the giant ball forward! Gigantamax Cinderace emerged, standing tall atop a colossal, blazing fireball that burned as brightly as the sun. It gave a confident smirk, completely unfazed by the giant dragon looming over it.

“That’s exactly what I wanted to see, Hop!” Leon roared over the crowd's cheers, striking his iconic champion pose. “The stage is set! Let's give them a finale they'll never forget! Charizard, use G-Max Wildfire!”

“Cinderace, use G-Max Fireball!” Hop shouted at the top of his lungs. Cinderace kicked its colossal, blazing fireball with incredible force, sending it hurtling forward. The two massive G-Max attacks collided in mid-air, creating a spectacular and blinding explosion that shook the entire stadium and filled the sky with brilliant fireworks.

A few minutes later;

Both Leon and Hop walked through the corridor toward their rooms after the match. Leon placed a proud, heavy hand on Hop's shoulder as they walked, a warm and gentle smile replacing his fierce battle expression.

“You were absolutely incredible out there today, Hop,” Leon said softly, his voice filled with genuine emotion. “That final clash... I haven't felt my heart race like that in a long time. You've truly become a trainer who can inspire the entire world.”

“Thanks, brother, but I still have a lot to learn and want to surpass you.” There was a unique level of passion and a determined blaze in Hop's eyes.

Leon felt relieved to see that his younger brother was now passionate about learning more. Despite losing, Hop was looking forward, not dwelling on what had happened previously. *How mature you've become, Hop, Leon thought.

Just then, Raihan and Nessa came their way. “Hop, you put up an excellent battle! I didn't think you would give Leon such a tough time.” Raihan wrapped his arm around Hop's shoulder.

“You have made a great improvement since we last met,” Nessa said, her eyes filled with praise.

“I still lost, but I'll train more and surpass my big brother,” Hop's voice let the others know he was serious about his words.

Raihan teasingly said while handing him an energy drink, “Of course you will, but let's get some rest first.”

Leon noticed someone wasn't there, so he asked Nessa, “By the way, where is Sonia? I thought she was with you.”

Nessa turned her head left and right, also realizing Sonia wasn't there with them. “I don't know. She was with us when we left the stadium."

At the end of the corridor near the main lobby, Hop saw Sonia; she was chatting with two men wearing black suits. “There is Sonia. I guess she's busy with her work.”

“Who are those guys? They look like some kind of agents, don't they, Nessa?” Raihan glared at them suspiciously.

“It seems like it, but we can't judge anyone by their appearance, Raihan, so stop acting like that.”

“You both act up too much,” Leon said to both of them as he approached Sonia. “Hey, Sonia!” he called out, waving his hand towards her.

She responded, “Leon, that was an amazing match! Hop, you gave it everything, and the results of your training clearly showed.”

“Thanks. Also, sorry to interrupt you during your important meeting,” Leon said, apologizing for disturbing her before asking, "Who are they?"

“No, they're here to meet you. I don't know them either.”

Then, one of them stepped forward with a gentle, apologetic gesture. “Sorry to interrupt you, Mr. Leon. After such a good fight, you should be resting, yet we have interfered. Please forgive our rude intrusion.”

Leon and the others were a little surprised by their sudden, formal apology. “Don't worry, please raise your heads. It's fine,” Leon said with an awkward smile.

“Your willingness to forgive us shows your greatness. Let me introduce ourselves: I'm Mark, and this is my partner, Arvic.” Both of them shook hands with Leon and introduced themselves.

“So, Mark, what do you want from me?” Leon asked the reason for their visit.

“I’m not worthy of that much respect, so instead of saying 'Mr. Mark, just call me Mark.”

“Okay, Mark. Why are you here?” Raihan intervened, his eyes glaring at them suspiciously.

Mark took out an envelope and extended his hand to Leon. “We're here to deliver a letter, Mr. Leon.”

“Is that the only reason you both came here—just to give him this letter? Something feels fishy about this,” Raihan said, casting a skeptical look toward them.

Leon noticed a stamp on the envelope that read "From the Supreme League." The can of energy drink fell from his hand. His smiling face suddenly became tense, sweat breaking out all over his face as his eyes went wide, his hands beginning to tremble. Everyone present felt something was off—why did Leon suddenly change his expression? Raihan lost his temper and grabbed Mark's collar, anger clearly showing on his face.

“Who are you? Why did Leon suddenly feel tense?”

“Mr. Raihan, I already told everyone we are just here to deliver a letter to Leon. That's it.”

“It seems you aren't going to make this easy," Nessa said.

Because of the commotion, all the bystanders present there turned their attention towards them. The situation had become so serious that even the security guards approached before anything could happen.

Leon realized what was happening and calmed himself down. “Raihan and Nessa, stop it! You are making a meaningless scene.”

“Leon, don't get in the way! I don't want to see anything like what happened before again,” Raihan said, brushing off Leon's interference.

Leon shouted at them, “Enough of you both! You are being so rude towards our guests.” Leon pried Mark's collar from Raihan's grip.

“Please forgive us, Mr. Mark and Mr. Arvic, for whatever rudeness just occurred. Both of them had no bad intentions.” Leon bowed his head and apologized to both of them.

Everyone was more than a little surprised to see the former champion apologizing to someone like this. Raihan did not like it, yet he could not do anything; both he and Nessa reluctantly apologized as well.

Mark made a humble gesture with his hands, offering a reassuring smile. “Please, there is no need for that, Mr. Leon. We do not possess such high status, so please raise your head.”

Arvic added a humble request to Leon, “Don't even worry about it. Let’s focus on the matter at hand.”

Leon said, “Thanks. Despite all this happening, you didn’t take it to heart.”

“Don't worry about it. Our task is finished here. We will wait for your reply, Mr. Leon.” With a mysterious smile, Mark and Arvic took their leave.

Sonia glared at Leon, her voice filled with worry. “Leon, are you alright?”

A tight smile formed on his face. “Yeah, I'm completely fine. It's just exhaustion after the battle. I will take some rest in my room.” Leon headed toward his room.

Raihan still couldn't accept what he had just witnessed. “Leon, tell us who they are!”

Leon turned around and said to Raihan, “I will tell you everything after I've had some time alone. See ya!” With a fake smile that was clearly visible, Leon took his leave.

Back in his room, Leon was sitting on the sofa, staring at the ceiling with eyes filled with exhaustion. The letter was lying open on the table in front of him. With tension clearly written across his features, he muttered in a low, unsteady voice, “So, it's finally starting again. I don't want all that to happen again, but I can't do anything now.” He took a deep breath, completely collapsing back onto the sofa. “Now, whatever happens next will change the world completely.”

Back to the Kanto Region:

Ash and Pikachu came to a nearby town with Leaf to participate in a local Pokémon tournament.

Ash looked outside at the stadium, which was much better and bigger than he had imagined. “I never imagined such a good stadium for a local tournament.”

“This may be a bit ambiguous, but it is restoring people's faith in the Pokémon League. Many regions are experiencing a flurry of activity to bring things back to normal, from contests to playful activities for every age group. You should also participate in such things,” Leaf said, trying to motivate Ash.

“You are right. I have been thinking of going out for a long time, but… I… I also feel scared of how I'll face others.” Ash's eyes narrowed, his tone unsure about what he felt.

Leaf did not like seeing Ash like this. “How long will you remain like this? But now, it is enough. Today, you will come back in front of the world again.”

“But what if I don't, or… something? *(breath)* I don't know what to say. I can't fix anything after what I've lost. I'm not ready to take the burden of my failures again.” Ash's expression was confused.

Leaf stepped in front of him and looked into his eyes. “There is no need to take all the burden on yourself. Don't you believe in your friends? They're always here for you, and Pikachu always stands beside you.” She extended her hand towards Ash. “It's on you now, Ash—believe in us, or suffer alone from those nightmares.”

Ash remained standing; he had no self-esteem left. Then, there was a huge explosion at the stadium. Both were startled and rushed towards the noise.

As they reached the battle ground, they were both stunned after seeing the situation there.

“Pi-ka!!” Pikachu noticed a Pokémon lying unconscious against the wall.

Ash said, “That's Blastoise! But who is it that defeated a powerful Pokémon like Blastoise so badly?”

Leaf noticed a person's figure. “Ash, look! There's someone else lying unconscious on the ground. It seems he's the trainer of Blastoise.”

As both of them went down to the field to help the person lying unconscious, they realized it was none other than Gary. Leaf panicked as she tried to wake him up.

“Gary, can you hear me? How can someone do something so horrible?” Leaf was worried.

Then, Ash noticed a shadow figure emerging from the smoke. He stood, his voice filled with extreme rage. “Was it you who did this?”

As the smoke cleared, a person with a white, side-swept hairstyle and cold, crimson-red eyes glared at Ash. There was no expression or sympathy on his face for what he had done. The wind blew, making his long, white coat wave. On his forearms, long black fingerless gloves were covered by a stylized black-and-red, flame-patterned gauntlet. Underneath, he wore a dark T-shirt along with dark jeans. In a cold, heavy voice, he said, “What will you do if I say yes?”

The pressure in the area suddenly felt dense. There was no mocking smile or sign of insult on his face, yet Leaf, Ash, and Pikachu felt an intense chill in his presence.

“Who the hell is he?”

An unknown, cold person has suddenly appeared in Ash's path. What new problem is this for our heroes? What will Ash do now?

To be Continued…

I was wondering what Ash's reaction would be when he finds out that the Pokémon belonging to the trainer—or villain—he had such an intense battle with has been killed, and right before his eyes, too.

Prologue::

The world of Pokémon is filled with many unique and naturally powerful creatures. For humans, they are still very mysterious and unknown, which is why people conduct research by catching them in Poké Balls. Because of this, many unique stories unfold within the relationships between humans and Pokémon—like the unbreakable bond between them, understanding each other without speaking, staying together in toughest situations, and sharing a single goal to become a powerful trainer. Many trainers begin their journey with the dream of catching every kind of Pokémon and becoming a Pokémon Master, and among them, Pallet Town's Ash Ketchum also began his journey alongside Pikachu. We have all witnessed his journey, and how he grew from an inexperienced beginner into the World Champion.

This story starts after the World Championship has concluded. Following the championship, Ash and Pikachu both continued their journey. After a whole year, they were finally returning home to the Kanto region, but instead of a warm welcome, they were met with shocking news.

A newly formed organization led by a man named Karkus had spread terror throughout Kanto. The best trainers of Kanto and Johto joined forces to stop him, yet they failed. He even brought Red over to his team, bringing the Pokémon League to its knees. After many failures, while everyone was attending a meeting to figure out a way to stop him, they received news that an unknown trainer had destroyed Karkus' ship, and Red had gone missing. Following that incident, Ash became demotivated and stayed inside his house, completely isolating himself from the world. Karkus had wreaked havoc across the globe, causing people to lose faith in the League. To restore order, new rules were implemented.

After two years, everything was slowly getting back to normal, but Ash's life was no longer the same as before. He began having nightmares after that tragedy. This story starts after those two years have passed, following Ash as he returns to a new world where he finally understands the true reality of the Pokémon world.

Chapter 01 : Nightmare

Some officers were panicking, some were showing courage, and others were encouraging their comrades. Just then, Detective Looker entered the control room.

His voice sounded heavy, frantic, and rushed. “What is going on? I told you all to track Karkus's location!”

An officer called out to Looker, gesturing toward the screen. “Chief, we have tracked the location of Karkus's airship.”

Looker quickly hurried over to the officer. "Where is it? Tell me quickly!”

“Near the Ruins of Alph in Johto,” the officer replied, tracking the GPS navigation of our scout unit.

“Everyone get ready quickly! We're on our way there right now,” Looker ordered the surrounding police officers.

Suddenly, a female officer urgently called Looker over to her screen. “Chief, I managed to hack into the scouting squad's feed, and I can see someone out there fighting!”

Looker quickly turned to the officer. "Show me! Who is it?”

“Chief, that's definitely a Charizard.”

“That must be Red's Charizard... but who is he battling?” Looker asked, ordering her to clear up the video quality.

“Is that... a Pikachu and a Blastoise?”

The female officer tried to sharpen the camera's focus. “Sir, that is World Champion Ash Ketchum, and with him is Gary Oak!”

Looker, staring intently at the screen, said, "Did those two go and fight Red on their own without permission?”

“What were you two thinking?” Looker muttered to himself in a worried tone.

At the Ruins of Alph;

Heavy rain poured from the sky onto the shattered pieces of a Pokéball scattered on the burning ground. Smoke rose from the surface. Blastoise had completely collapsed, and Gary was also exhausted. Pikachu could barely stand on his feet, while Ash took a heavy breath. On the other hand, Mega Charizard looked extremely tired, but Red remained unwavering—showing no sign of exhaustion or sympathy for them.

“Red!” Ash shouted, pouring every ounce of his remaining strength into his voice. “Just tell us why you are doing this! We’re friends, aren’t we?”

There wasn't a single trace of emotion on Red's face. His eyes remained completely shadowed by his cap, and a lone raindrop dripped from his chin. He stood deathly still, refusing to even look at them, shrouded in an absolute, suffocating silence.

“Why!?” Ash cried, with tears in his eyes.

“ENOUGH!!” Gary shouted loudly in frustration.

“Enough, Ash! He won't tell us that easily. We have to defeat him if we want to get our answers.” Gary tried to stand up, but as he was about to slip, Blastoise suddenly grabbed him, becoming his anchor.

“Thanks. You're always here to support me,” Gary said to Blastoise in a soft and trusting tone.

“Blast...” Blastoise responded with a soft gesture.

“Ash, we don't have a choice,” Gary said, looking at Ash.

Ash wiped his face and turned to Pikachu. “Pikachu, are you still able to fight?”

“Pika!” Pikachu’s cheeks dimmed for a second before sparking into fully charged electricity.

“Let's put all our strength into one final strike!” Ash threw his cap toward Pikachu and readied his Z-Ring.

“Blastoise, let's put our remaining power into this last move!” Gary touched his Key Stone to activate it.

“Blast!!” Blastoise responded with a loud roar, re-energizing his Mega Evolution.

Mega Charizard spread his wings wide, and the flame on his tail burned higher—a sign that he was ready to fight back, too.

“Pikachu!!”

“Blastoise!!”

Both Ash and Gary commanded their partners with full energy.

“Z-Move: 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt!!”

“Full Power: Hydro Pump!!”

Then Red, with his deep tone and shadowed expression, finally spoke: “Charizard, use Dragon Pulse.”

A clash between Pikachu's ultimate 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt and Mega Blastoise's full-powered Hydro Pump combined against Mega Charizard's solo Dragon Pulse. The pressure of their clash was so powerful that it created a massive explosion.

The entire ground was covered in a thick smokescreen. When the smoke cleared, the result of the battle was unexpected. Gary, Pikachu, and Blastoise lay unconsciously on the ground. Charizard also seemed to have taken heavy damage, and as for Ash, he was barely conscious. He tried to stand again; even though his body had given up, his will to save his friend had not.

“Red... (cough, cough!)” Ash's voice was unclear, and he had lost all of his strength to talk.

Without looking at him, Red turned around and headed back toward the airship.

“Red!! I… don't— (heavy breathing)—give up yet…! I believe… (fainting voice) there is… a reason. So please… (cough!!)… don't go.” Ash's eyes were about to shut.

Red paused, looking at Ash's condition, but he still remained silent. Then, he walked onto a shadowed path where the light had almost faded. But before Ash blacked out, he saw the most painful sight. In front of his barely open eyes, Red's eyes filled with tears. “Even though it was raining, I was the only one in that moment who saw those tears of guilt.”

Those tears seemed to tell Ash, “Please forgive me, my friend, but this is the end.”

Charizard couldn't hold back his tears, either.

Slowly, Red and Charizard faded before Ash's eyes. “Please… stop…” Ash muttered, reaching his hand out toward Red’s vanishing shadow…

“STOP!!” Suddenly Ash woke up. Tears dropped from his eyes, his face was covered in sweat, and his hands trembled as he took heavy, ragged breaths.

(Heavy breaths)....

“It's my room... I'm on my bed. What happened?” Ash was confused for a few seconds as he looked around his room, where Mr. Mime stood completely frozen, clutching a broom.

“Oh, it's you, Mr. Mime!! Did you come here to clean my room?” Ash asked in a heavy, exhausted voice.

“Mime-mime...” Mr. Mime responded, looking slightly scared.

“Sorry for scaring you, Mr. Mime. I just had a bad nightmare.” Ash got out of bed and apologized.

“Mime? Mr. Mime?” Mr. Mime looked at him, deeply worried.

“Don't worry, I'm fine. Look at me.” Ash stretched his arms and did a few quick sit-ups to reassure Mr. Mime.

“Ash, my boy, Are you awake now? If so, come downstairs quickly before breakfast goes cold!” Delia's voice called out from the kitchen.

“Yeah, I'm coming!” Ash replied. He looked at the clock and saw it was already 10 a.m. “Looks like I overslept.”

He went downstairs and headed straight to the bathroom sink to splash some cold water on his face.

Narrator :: Ash Ketchum, now sixteen years old and holding the title of World Champion, had traveled across many regions and islands. He had caught over a hundred different kinds of Pokémon, fought against strong and legendary foes, saved numerous worlds and nations from evil organizations, and made countless friends and rivals. His ultimate dream had always been to become a Pokémon Master.

Yet, this person who once loved adventure had trapped himself in his own house for the past two years. His Trainer license had been suspended by the Pokémon League for six months because of his impulsive, reckless actions during the Karkus incident. But even after that suspension ended, he couldn't bring himself to go on any adventures—not even to visit nearby towns to see his friends. He had completely isolated himself from the world. Sometimes, the terrible nightmares about that incident returned, but he handled them on his own.

Though he had lost touch with everyone, the world could never forget their hero. Most people still looked up to Ash and the other Champions as the saviors who defeated the Karkus organization. But in reality, Ash felt like a failure—because he hadn't even been able to save his closest friend.

Warm sunlight streamed into the kitchen, illuminating the breakfast table. Delia had prepared breakfast for him, while Pikachu watered the garden plants outside. Ash sat quietly in a kitchen chair.

“Here you go. Enjoy your breakfast, my son,” Delia said with a warm smile.

“Thanks, mom,” Ash said, starting to eat his breakfast.

“Ash, is something wrong? You look pale,” Delia remarked, noticing his exhausted face.

“Thanks for asking, but I'm completely fine. I just overslept today, that's all. That's probably why I look a bit tired,” Ash replied.

“Okay, dear. If anything is ever bothering you, please feel free to tell me. I'm always here for you,” she said, a gentle, motherly smile spreading across her face.

Ash didn't say anything, but he managed to smile back a little.

“If you don't mind, can I ask you for a favor?” Delia asked.

“Of course,” Ash replied.

“Can you visit Professor Oak today at the hospital? I'm just a little too busy to go by myself.”

At first, Ash didn't reply. After a brief pause, he said, “Okay, I'll do it.”

“Thank you so much, my dear boy. I love you,” Delia smiled.

“Professor Oak... yeah, I haven't visited him very often lately,” Ash thought to himself.

Ash put on a hoodie along with some light jeans, ready to go out. Before he left, Delia handed him a bouquet of flowers. “Ash, put these in Professor Oak's room. They'll make the room feel a bit more comfortable.”

“Okay, I will.” Then, he headed out the door.

“Pikachu, let's go. We are going to meet Professor Oak.”

“Pika!” Pikachu hopped up onto Ash and sat on his shoulder.

In these two years, the Kanto region had improved quite a bit. Ash took a bus from Pallet Town to Viridian City, where a new metro station had been built to allow fast travel across all the major cities. Ash boarded the Celadon City metro and sat down. His head was covered by his hoodie because he didn't want his famous identity to be recognized by others. Once on the metro, he put on his earphones to listen to music while Pikachu curled up on his lap, drifting off to sleep.

Professor Oak... the mentor who was closest to me. He's the one who taught me so many things about Pokémon. But now, he's in a deep sleep…

At the Celadon City Hospital:

After arriving at the hospital, Ash asked the receptionist for Professor Oak's room number. It was Room 104 on the fourth floor.

When he was about to open the door, he hesitated. Just then, a girl approached him and said, “Is that you, Ash?”

“Leaf!!” Ash was a little surprised.

“Ash, it's been a while! How are you?” Leaf happily asked, gesturing toward him.

Pikachu jumped toward her and hugged her. “Pika-pikachu!” With a happy smile, Leaf hugged him back. “You look healthy, Pikachu!

“I didn't expect to see you here,” Leaf said.

“Actually, Mom is kinda busy today, so I came instead of her,” Ash replied.

“So, that's the reason,” Leaf said

“Aren't you visiting Alola?” Ash asked to leaf

“I just came back from Alola yesterday.” Leaf replied to Ash.

“Instead of talking here, it is better we go inside.” Leaf pushed open the door to Room 104.

The room presented a somber sight: a man who had dedicated his life and passion to understanding Pokémon and their nature, who was always surrounded by research papers, and sometimes sacrificed his own sleep for research. Now, he was in a deep sleep surrounded by life support machines. ‘A man who dedicated his life to his passionate work, now he lay on a bed in a motionless sleep.’

Ash put flowers on the table; Leaf gave him a stool to sit on. Both remained silent for a while.

“How long has Professor Oak been asleep?” Ash asked a simple question to Leaf with a pale expression.

“I don't know, but we can't lose hope soon,” Leaf answered with a hopeful look. When she looked at Ash's pale face, she asked,

“Has something happened to you? Ash, you look tired.” Leaf was concerned about him.

“I had that nightmare again!” Ash said with a heavy, sad tone.

When Leaf heard about the nightmare, she realized that Ash was still not completely cured. Her inner thought: “The devastation caused by the Karkus still haunts Ash. All Kanto gyms, many homes, and even Pallet Town were in danger. Ash had to choose between saving Pallet Town or the world, but Ash couldn't make a decision at that time. Then Ash got a shock when he found out Red was with Karkus, but still he did not give up hope until one day he got the news that Karkus and his members lost against an unknown trainer and Red... He's no more. Ash wasn't that broken completely at that time until, when he went through Karkus's interrogation with some questions and found out what his intentions were, he was horrified.

On other hand to gain back the people's trust, the Pokémon League decided to reveal the champions' names in the newspaper, claiming they stopped Karkus, but Ash was not happy with that. He thought, ‘Why did I take someone's credit while I failed to do anything?’ But the authorities denied his foolishness after that…”

Ash began blaming himself for not making a decision, for not arriving on time, for not preventing such devastation, and for not saving his friends. Despite being a world champion, he could not do anything. From then on, Ash stopped going out much and started to live an isolated life, which led to the nightmares. But as time passed, Ash's nightmares started to subside, but still, he did not tell anyone about what he actually felt; he alone faced his own problems.

“Ash, You are still blaming yourself.” Leaf asked, looking worriedly at Ash.

“I don't know, I wish everything becomes normal but then those bad dreams come back.” Ash replied.

“Pi-ka-chu.” Pikachu hopped up, a deeply worried expression on his face.

Leaf knew that she could not do anything right now… but cannot ignore Ash in such a condition. So she got up from her place and said in a cheerful voice.

“Ash, come on, when I was here, I saw a poster saying there's going to be a tournament in a nearby town, you can participate in it.”

“Leaf, I'm glad you care about me, but I'm in no mood to fight.” Ash told Leaf in a quiet voice.

Hearing this, Pikachu became angry. “Pika pii pika chaa pii pika pii Pikachu” (I did not expect this from you, you isolated yourself for two years, when others needed you, you forgot them, but they can't, always were with you all that time; even today. Do you want to hurt your friends like this, don't you want to save anyone?) Pikachu began to motivate Ash, making him realize that he was never alone.

“Thanks, Pikachu, but..." Ash took a pause and saw a glint of hope in Leaf and Pikachu's eyes that would never leave him alone.

With a slight smile, Ash accepted Leaf's offer; there was still a fear and sadness in his heart that he did not want to share with anyone. Those three left the hospital and headed for the next town. On their way, Ash asked Leaf about her trip to Alola.

“It wasn't even a trip, I was helping Samson Oak all the time.” Leaf told her story in Alola.

“By the way, what is the condition of Alola right now?" Ash asked.

“The government of Alola has done a lot to ease the economic crisis there, even repairing the monuments there.” Leaf answered Ash's question, “Also, I heard that some multi-billionaire organization is helping Alola with one of their personal projects. Whatever happens, Alola will return to its normal state.”

“A multi-billionaire organization is helping Alola, isn't that strange?” Ash said.

“Considering the condition of Alola, whatever is helping is more than enough for them.” Leaf replied

Alola region which has its own tourism and culture, Karkus took advantage of this and destabilized Alola's tourism system, and also did much to distract from his way, due to this the economic crisis that had begun throughout the region. After the incident to solve problems Alolan leaders have joined forces with a multi-billionaire organization to build their personal project in return they restore Alola's tourism.

“By the way, how's Lillie and everyone else?” Ash asked Leaf, remembering his friends from Alola.

“Everyone is working hard to get back to normal, Lillie has become an assistant Professor. Everyone else remembers you.” Leaf answered.

Ash realized that he was still stuck in the past while everyone else was moving forward. Then Pikachu climbed onto Ash's shoulder and, looking at him enthusiastically, said “Pii-kaachuu!!” (you can do it), Ash smiled and replied, "You are right, we still have a lot to do.”

Leaf was happy to see their bond, but she could see right through his forced smile. She knew that the warmth he was showing on the outside couldn't quite reach the coldness he still felt on the inside.

As they moved toward the next town, they had no idea they were about to encounter an unknown danger.

Even though Ash looked fine on the outside, a part of him desperately wanted to open up and tell someone about the pain he was carrying within.

To Be Continued…

My fic's story begins after a timeskip. But before that timeskip, a world-changing incident occurred due to which the most of the characters changed. Everything is returning to its normal state. Now that incident is very important but I want to write it as a previous incident arc, due to which I am facing problem as to what to write on its summary/prologue. Can I give a little detailed explanation or a quick one without any long writing.